Winter Colds - The Straight Dope

If you've never read "The Straight Dope" syndicated column, here's a sample. The information is always witty, intelligent, and sometimes irreverent; and always entertaining! And speaking of colds, have you tried my fantastic Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe? It works miracles!

Why is winter the season for colds, flu, etc.?

31-Jan-1992

Dear Cecil:

What is it with sickness and cold temperatures? Countless times I have heard it said that winter is "cold and flu season." Mom always said to put my hat and galoshes on or I would catch pneumonia or my death of a cold. But I'm no dope. I know disease is caused by germs, not cold. From what I can remember of high school biology (not much), germs don't like cold any more than we do--in fact it kills them. So how come people get sick more often in the winter? Or do they? --Ryan Joseph, Chicago

Dear Ryan:

Seems like a reasonable question, doesn't it? Too bad there isn't a reasonable answer. All the research of the past three decades has succeeded in doing is undermining the old wives' tales about wet feet causing colds and such without putting anything in their place. Here's what we know so far, and it ain't much:

The cold, wet feet, etc., don't make you more susceptible to the common cold. Several researchers, obviously graduates of the Joseph Mengele School of Medicine, had people sit in cold tubs and whatnot for extended periods to see if they'd catch more colds. By and large they didn't.

If anything, long stretches of cold temps mean you'll catch fewer colds, presumably because the germs die off. People who "winter over" at Antarctic research stations seldom get colds except when they host germ-laden visitors from warmer climes.

We don't have indisputable evidence that winter is "cold season." Most cold sufferers don't see a doctor, and no central record is kept of the colds that doctors do hear about.

Winter is flu season, but not always. The influenza pandemic of 1918-19, which killed at least 20 million people worldwide, reached peak virulence in the most of the world during the late spring and summer and topped out in the U.S. in October.

Still, most flu outbreaks peak in January or February. Why? Figure that out and you may be hearing from the Nobel committee. Cecil's mother's theory is that cold "lowers your resistance" to disease. Sounds plausible, but during major outbreaks the winter months typically bring an equally sharp upward spike in flu in all parts of the country. Sure, Chicago gets a little brisk in the winter. But L.A.?

Something besides the cold obviously is at work. Maybe it's that even in southern California during winter folks keep the windows closed and stay indoors more, giving them a chance to exchange more germs. If we want to get really creative we may note that if you want to catch the latest bug there's nothing like going to church, and the one time people are sure to go to church is Christmas. Hence (maybe) the January outbreaks. OK, I'm reaching. But nobody knows for sure.

Respiratory infections, setting aside colds and flu, seem to be more common in winter--but some think that's because of misdiagnosis. For example, what may appear to be sinusitis--runny nose, congestion, and so on--in fact may simply a result of "cold stress." Cold stress is a direct bodily response to cold (like shivering, say), not something caused by germs.

Cold stress symptoms can last several days but eventually go away by themselves; so do most respiratory infections. Since most doctors don't send out for tests, there's no telling what the real problem was. Cold stress is most pronounced when the weather changes suddenly, which is when many folks seem to get colds. Maybe they haven't got a cold, they just are cold, if you follow me.

Psychological (as opposed to physical) stress may also play a role. A study published last year in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that the more psychological stress people were under, the more likely they were to get colds. Cecil can personally attest that cold weather and sunless days can be tough on the psyche. So maybe in the interest of stress mitigation you should pop for a week in Puerto Vallarta--and while you're at it, tell that in-your-face boss of yours to take a running jump.

--CECIL ADAMS

American Idol Criteria - How Do You Rate?

Here's a funny article from Michael Slezak that pretty much sums up the American Idol audition experience. Whether you're a fan of the show or not, I think you'll agree with his candid assessment of the audition process. Which category would you fit in?



TV Watch - from EM online
Crazy in Alabama
In Birmingham, ''American Idol'' breaks all the rules: Paula plays tough, and pretty girls get eliminated; plus, a future star name-checks Hasselhoff

All About American Idol (Series)
By Michael Slezak

There are four standard scripts for American Idol's female auditions (non-joke variety), and they can be pretty much summed up like this:

1. Hot looks, hot voice: ''You're going to Hollywood, baby!''

2. Borderline looks, hot voice: ''Congratulations, we're putting you through to the next round.'' (Be thankful.)

3. Hot looks, borderline voice: ''I dunno, I mean, that was kinda all over the place, but, hmmm...there's something I like about you. You deserve a second chance. You're going to Hollywood, baby!''

4. Borderline looks, borderline voice: Sorry, hon, not even Paula's on your side.

If you don't fall under one of those headings, it's a pretty good bet the show's producers are tossing you into the dignity dumpster reserved for the homely, the obese, the deranged, and the deluded - none of whom can sing, none of whom are traditional beauties, and all of whom can be ridiculed for a few minutes of highly rated entertainment (guilt apparently not included).

Imagine my surprise tonight, then, when right from the opening audition of the Birmingham, Ala., episode, the joke was on a pretty, blond, 19-year-old ''biological science'' major with a tiny waist, an ample bosom, and a wonky singing voice. Pity poor Erica Skye - because Simon, Randy, and Paula did not. Girlfriend was playing the skimpy-top card and raised the stakes with come-hither grins and an eager-to-please demeanor, but after launching into a shaky, breaky rendition of Simon's favorite song, ''Unchained Melody,'' not even the flirty Brit had the urge to indulge; instead he described Erica's performance as ''never-ending torture.'' By the time she embarked on an unsolicited second number, even Saint Paula lost her patience, retreating stage left and looking desperately for something - maybe some earplugs, maybe a security guard, or quite possibly a Taser.

Any which way, Erica-s crash-burn set the tone for an unusual evening of Idol. There was Paula labeling handsome Bernard Williams II as ''completely off-key'' on his rendition of ''Rock With You,'' while Simon and Randy played good cops and gave him a not-quite-deserved golden ticket. Later in the show, Paula again took the lead on a critique, telling wide-eyed Jamie Lynn Ward - who wins this season's Kellie Pickler Trophy for most alarming audition-round sob story - that her voice went nasal when she went in for the heavy lifting on Christina Aguilera's ''Reflection.'' (That said, the kid did have a pretty tone, though it'd be a shocker if she made it past Hollywood.) And later, Nichole Gatzman, a comely teen whose rendition of Bonnie Raitt's ''Something to Talk About'' showcased a voice at least as good as Ward's, got an unceremonious heave-ho from Randy and Simon because...well, just because.

Meanwhile, Chris Sligh, the love child of Jack Osbourne and Sideshow Bob, got Randy howling with his joke about wanting to move David Hasselhoff to tears, then elicited what may have been Simon's most genuine smile of the season following an affecting take on Seal's ''Kiss From a Rose.'' Not only that, the kid's exit-interview comment that Paula ''crumbled in my chubby little hands'' was a refreshing break from the bland therapy-speak most Idol contestants spout into the microphones when they're not singing. Even if he wasn't blessed with that killer voice, Chris' personality makes him a reasonable top 12 bet.

I'm not convinced we saw any other potential finalists tonight. Tatiana McConnico made my day by choosing Aretha's awesomely awesome ''I Never Loved a Man (the Way I Love You),'' but despite a powerhouse voice, she sounded a little too rushed, and acted a little too naive to handle the massive wave of pressure headed her way. Katie Bernard's version of ''A House Is Not a Home,'' meanwhile, was perfectly acceptable, and I wouldn't have even had trouble with her high-pitched speaking voice - if she'd used it for good, not evil. In other words, it's cute when my four-year-old niece squeals and dances when she's on a sugar rush, but such behavior elicits far less charitable feelings coming from a married woman of 19.

And speaking of charity, when it comes to tonight's self-aware train wrecks (''look how crazy I can act'' bird lady Margaret Fowler and ''look how sassy I can act'' Brandy Patterson, who committed heinous crimes against ''Like a Virgin''), I'm following that homespun rule about not saying anything at all if you don't have anything nice to say. Well, actually, that's sort of a fib. It's not really about kindness; it's just that I set my kitchen timer when I started writing this column, and (hooray!) the ladies' respective 15 minutes are already up.

What do you think? Were you particularly impressed by any of the contestants who were shown getting golden tickets tonight? Were you impressed with Paula's performance? And, like me, are you ready to toss the audition shows in the box to the left and let the real competition start in Hollywood?
Posted Jan 31, 2007

World Sound Healing Day

WHEN: February 14, 2007, join the Sound Healers Association and thousands of people throughout the planet as they tone an"AH" together for five minutes during that day, projecting the energy of Light & Love throughout the Planet. You will actually experience generating a field of transformational energy as this occurs. We have found that creating a Global Sacred Sound any time within a 24 hour period on the planet will create a coherent waveform that will affect the entire Earth. Therefore, any time you feel guided to sound for Planetary Peace on February 14th is a good time! In addition, local toning groups will be occurring throughout the Earth at various times during that day with the intention of assisting planetary consciousness through sound. There will also be several global toning events occurring via the Internet during that day, including at noon Eastern Time on www.healthylife.net and at 9 PM ET on www.allonenow.org.

WHY: To project peace throughout the planet.

What better way to celebrate this joyous day of Valentine's Day then to project Peace to Mother Earth and generate peaceful energy throughout the planet with sound!

Sound coupled with intention has the ability to heal and transform. We will sound an "AH" sending a heart wave of Sound that will resonate throughout the planet. Now is the time for you to be part of the Celestial Choir and resonate together for World Sound Healing Day. We can create major positive shifts on our beloved planet. Through sounding together we will make a difference.

HOW: Sound the heart sound "AH" for 5 minutes. We will simply sound an "AH" filled with the intention of Peace and Love for 5 minutes at your local noon time. The "AH" is a universal, non-denominational heart sound that when projected with focused energy is extremely powerful and effective.


AND: Pass this message on. If it's appropriate, forward this announcement about this event to your mailing list.

Tell your friends and loved ones to join our Celestial Choir and help bring peace to the planet.

There will be sound healing events throughout the world. Previous World Sound Healing Days were extraordinarily successful. We truly made a difference to the planet with our Sound, our Light and Our Love.

Rock Star Camp!

Here's an article from The Independent about everyday folks living their passion for music! I've been advocating music camps for years. As noted in this article, they are usually a life-changing experience for those who attend. For more on the adult music camp experience see my article, "A Baby Boomer Goes To Camp". And if you'd like to come to camp with veteran, Pro musicians, check out what Viva La Voice has to offer!

Here's an exerpt from the article by Louise Jury:

Wannabe Rockers Join Stars At Music Camps
By Louise Jury, Arts Correspondent, The Independent
Published: 29 January 2007

It sounds like the ultimate present for a man in a mid-life crisis - the chance to take the stage with some of the gods of rock 'n' roll.

After running a summer camp for musical teenagers, Mike Hurst created the RockMasters weekend in a country house near Tiverton in response to pleas from their parents that he do something for them. "I had various parents saying, 'It's wasted on the kids. Why don't you do it for adults?" Hurst said.

The grown-ups get catering from Chris Barber, formerly chef to Prince Charles at Highgrove, and clay pigeon shooting in a package retailing at £750 a head.

The rougher end of rock'n'roll it ain't. But the list of those signing up - from lawyers and businessmen to mothers - suggests that regardless of education or career success, in the era of X Factor and Pop Idol, everyone secretly wants to be a rock 'n' roll star.

Hurst said: "They'll all get individual attention and they get to play in the house band. It may attract people like the well-to-do in the City in a mid-life crisis kind of thing, but I think all the people will have one thing in common - they just love trying to play music."

And part of the pleasure was seeing the campers - who in America have ranged from a 17-year-old drummer to the president of an airline - enjoying themselves.

"It was life-changing for some of them," David Firshof (who presented The Band and The Monkees) said. "And they improve tremendously from the moment they sign up. They're given a list of songs they should prepare and they get so excited they start to improve straight away. Their passion comes out."

Are You Speaking Correctly?

Norman D. Hogikyan, M.D., F.A.C.S., who heads the University of Michigan's Vocal Health Center says, "many people take their voices for granted, and don't seek help until a problem with their voice starts interfering with their life. For people whose careers revolve around speaking, such as teachers, salespeople, clergy and receptionists, untreated voice problems can greatly interfere with their work."

Are you speaking correctly? Vocal coaching isn't just for singers anymore. In fact, more and more professionals from all walks of life are realizing the importance of safeguarding their voices while boosting their level of success. For many 'everyday' people in the workforce, their voice IS their instrument, and if damaged or impaired, they can't work!

During these cold winter months, give your voice some extra TLC with my Viva La Voice Tonic Recipe. It sooths tired, sore throats and helps with the healing process. Find it here.
Be Healthy!

ASLHA Association Advice - Voice Strain

Here's some advice from the American Speech-Language Hearing Association:

"Pipe down, please! - voice strain prevention
Healthy & Natural Journal, Oct, 2000


Trying to carry on a conversation at a noisy ball game or amusement park may strain your voice. In an effort to prevent laryngitis and vocal cord damage, the American Speech-Language Hearing Association is offering the following advice:

* Avoid yelling. If you feel strain in your neck or throat, you're too loud.

* Avoid constant throat clearing and coughing.

* Don't try to talk over noise.

* Avoid irritation caused by smoking or drinking alcohol.

* Drink lots of clear liquids."

If you have a dry, winter throat, or have already strained your voice, you've got to try my VIVA LA VOICE TONIC RECIPE! It's fantastic. GET IT HERE

Voice Beautification

I've been advocating Voice Coaching for years. Anybody, from a salesperson, to a trainer, to a bank teller can benefit from developing a more pleasing voice. Whether you like it or not, others judge you by the volume, tone and quality of your voice. Here's an exerpt from an article by Jennifer Saranow in the Wall Street Journal that confirms the growing trend in Voice Beautification for the common man!

"Speech therapy used to be for stutterers, lispers and other people with medically diagnosed language problems. But in a culture increasingly devoted to personal trainers, self-help books and cosmetic surgery, a new outlet for self-betterment is emerging: the personal voice trainer.

People have been wincing when they hear themselves speak since the dawn of the recording. Common complaints run the familiar litany of too high-pitched, too monotone, too nasal, too much like the opposite sex. For women, they often include: too shrill, too "valley girl," or too faint. For men, familiar grievances are too gravely or too weak.

Voice experts say that many voice "problems" are caused by unbalanced talking, or using too much of one part of the voice. (The components of the voice include breathing, vocal chord vibration and the sound of the voice as it resonates out of the mouth, nose and throat.) For example, hypernasality results from letting sound resonate too much through the nose. A gravely or harsh tone comes from excessive tension in the throat area.

The voice "is very similar conceptually to a person’s knee," says Joseph Stemple, a speech pathologist at the Blame Block Institute for Vocal Analysis and Rehabilitation in Dayton, Ohio, and author of a well-known voice pathology textbook. "It can become strained and weakened and unbalanced and you can do direct exercise to enhance it."

The key behind most voice exercise programs is teaching patients to find their "true" sound when emphasis isn’t on one part of the voice over others. Patients learn to breathe from their stomach and let the voice carry more fully out of their mouth. They learn to feel whether they are exerting their mouth, nose or throat too much when talking. They use relaxing exercises to relieve tension that may be putting emphasis too much on one area.

Patients say that the end result is a better voice and more- effortless talking -- but getting there takes a lot of work. Learning to talk with a "true" voice can mean anything from figuring out how to hold your tongue while speaking to breathing differently -- movements that feel weird and unnatural at first. It takes extensive practice to turn such changes into habit.

"The results are largely dependent on the amount of energy that they are willing to put into their practice," says Kate DeVore, a speech pathologist from Chicago, who estimates that personal training of normal voices now accounts for about half of her practice."

If you want to change your voice, look for my 'JOYFUL SINGING SERIES" coming soon! Based on my SEVEN PRINCIPLES FOR AN INTEGRATED VOICE, this series will give you the secrets of VOCAL MASTERY! Sign up for my monthly Voicegram to get updates on this fantastic product!

Singing Is Good For Seniors!

According to reports from the National Association of Music Merchants, picking up singing, or playing an instrument after dropping it earlier in life leads to such health benefits as an enhanced immune system, stress reduction and staving off depression and loneliness in older adults.

It's never too late to enjoy the benefits of music!

A Night at Fess Parker's

Thursday nights at Fess Parker's Wine Country Inn in Los Olivos are special. Fess and his wife Marcie host an evening of music. Lots of their local celebrity friends drop in; Fess is the MC and also sings a bit, and Marcie usually ends the show with a few songs.

Most of us baby boomers will remember Fess Parker in the Disney series 'Davy Crockett'. I bet you can still sing the theme song, "Davy, Davy Crockett, King of the wild frontier!" Fess was smart, and after his acting days, he got into real estate and development. He now has a beautiful winery in the Santa Ynez Valley among other resort properties.

My uncle often sings on Thursday nights; oh, did I mention that my uncle is 81 and has a beautiful voice! Singing is his passion, and he usually doesn't miss the Wine Country Inn gathering. Fess asked me to sing a couple of songs, which was fun. It's a nice atmosphere in the lobby with a glowing fire, couches; you feel like you're entertaining in the Parker's living room.

If you go visiting the Santa Ynez Valley, don't miss all the spectacular wineries in that area. Stay at the Wine Country Inn, it's lovely, cozy and you can drop in and sing a few tunes! And don't forget to say hi to Fess for me!

Find out about the Wine Country Inn and the Fess Parker Winery

Recording with Norman Thalheimer

While in California I spent several days recording with my dear friend and collaborator, Norman Thalheimer. Norman and I wrote music and lyrics for "Marilyn, An American Fable", which ran on Broadway at the Minskoff Theater. It's funny how many people loved that show.

I recently performed at a benefit for the Boys and Girls Club with Nyle Steiner (inventor of the EVI), and Richard Souther (4 time Grammy nominee), here in Utah where I sang "I'll Send You Roses" from 'Marilyn'. A man in the audience had lived in NYC and saw the show, which is always gratifying. I guess you can think of your art as a seed carried on the wind. You never know who has been touched by what you do, and where that little seed may end up, hopefully making a difference in the world.

While in So. California Norman and I recorded 15 songs. Some of them were from "Marilyn, An American Fable", and others were tunes we'd written through the years, but never got around to recording. So I'm excited to get them finished and mixed, and make them available for those fans of the musical (there was never a Cast Album done of 'Marilyn').

We also recorded some of our wacky, quirky, theatrical stuff. If you like weird, silly, punky music, hear some sound samples of our stuff (the other side of Beth Lawrence!) by Freud's Funhouse at: http://cdbaby.com/cd/twohandsmouth

For those of you who have my lullaby CD, "Land of Sleepytime", this is definitely NOT music for toddlers or children! These are crazy stories about aliens, peeping toms and other assorted weirdnesses!

Jim O'Neil & Rubicon Theater

On my recent trip to L.A. I spent the day with Jim O'Neil, Artistic Director of Rubicon Theater in Ventura. Jim and I grew up together in Santa Barbara, were at Cal Arts at the same time, and were 'roomies' in our early professional days in L.A. So we had lots of history to dredge up, and bunches of laughs recalling some of our 'finer' moments.

Jim and his wife, Karyl Lynn Burns have been instrumental in creating a fantastic venue in Ventura, California that features some of the best talent around. They've also been wonderfully successful in generating loyal support from both sponsors and the public. With the Endowments for the Arts and governmental support for the Arts dwindling, building an enthusiastic subscriber base is crucial, and not always easy to do. Rubicon uses seasoned professionals for their shows who love the convenience of being just an hour's drive from L.A.
Here's what the Times said about Rubicon:

"Rubicon Theatre Company moves the local stage to a level so many for so long had hoped for... the best theatre around."
Los Angeles Times

The day I visited, Rubicon was premiering a new show 'Back Home Again - a John Denver Holiday Concert', so I stayed for the opening and after-show party. What a great group of supporters! This photo is Jim and I at the party. Note his 'gentleman cowboy' shirt; everyone was in the John Denver rustic look, except myself, donning a Utah snow coat! Hardly needed in warm California.

I wish Jim, Karyl Lynn and their staff continued success. Read more about Rubicon at: http://www.rubicontheater.org

The Incredible Thoracic Diaphragm!

I was so thrilled to see the vocal and breathing mechanism in 3D at 'Bodies The Exhibit' while in Las Vegas! The first principle for great singing in my 'Seven Principles for An Integrated Voice' booklet is all about BREATHING correctly for proper support while singing or speaking.

So I was really excited to see the diaphragm in all its glory, and was surprised to see that it wasn't just a thin strip of muscle, but a huge muscle shelf that separates the thoracic cavity ( lungs and heart) from the abdominopelvic cavity (liver, stomach, intestines, etc.). The diaphragm is King!!

I have always advocated maintaining a soft belly so that the diaphragm can drop down (in its relaxed state it's shaped like a dome), allowing more air into the lungs. To actually see this giant muscle makes it so clear to me that what I teach has complete credence! I tell my students to think of the diaphragm much like a trampoline or strong platform that supports the tone, giving it strength and volume. When you actually see that it physically mirrors this image, that it is a muscle shelf that is designed for SUPPORT, it's incredibly exciting and gratifying!

When you breathe, your diaphragm area should expand. This is a hard concept for lots of singers to get, but you need to physically allow the diaphragm to drop and expand. You never want to 'push' the diaphragm or abdominals out, this creates tension, and with The Integrated Voice method, you don't want tension, anywhere!

Now that I've seen it (in the flesh, so to speak), I fully understand, and better realize, how to enlighten my clients about how to envision their breathing mechanism. I'm reminded again, it's all about the diaphragm! Not a lowly strip of tissue that supports the lungs and heart, but the King of muscles that stretches and expands to give you the glorious feeling of security in supporting your tone.

So honor your incredible diaphragm! By using the breathing mechanism correctly, you'll discover the miracle of great vocal support that will allow you to trust your voice, giving you the strength and confidence to be a great singer and dynamic speaker.

All hail the mighty diaphragm!!

If you'd like to know more about my Integrated Voice Method, see my article "My Story" http://www.vivalavoice.com

Guttman & Guttwoman!

While in L.A. I visited with my long-time friends, Gary Guttman and Rebecca Mills. We had a great dinner at the quaint, cozy Los Angeles restaurant icon, The Tam O'Shanter.

Gary Guttman is an incredible artist, musician and composer. He's working on an ultra-secret instructional product that I'll tell you about as soon as it's ready for release. From what he told me about it, it's something every composer is going to want to have! More news on that later.

Gary also creates incredible art. He runs the gamut of styles, but always with a slightly off-kilter, kooky slant. I love him!

Rebecca Mills is one of my dearest friends. In the years that I've known her she has astounded me with her art, her humanity, and her flamboyant apparel! (See photo of us at the Tam!) In fact, one of my most revered pieces of 'outerwear' was a gift from Rebecca. Once a year, I'll don my RED, SHEARED BEAVER coat with matching fur ear-warmer, and go Christmas caroling here in snowy Utah. I always think of Rebecca while staying warm, cuddly and oh-so-elegant in my gorgeous red fur. I must add here that I don't advocate the killing of animals for their pelts, but I will always cherish Rebecca's fur when I wear it on that one night a year.

For more information on Gary Guttman's music and art:
http://www.garyguttman.com

Bodies The Exhibit!

While in Vegas I had the rare experience of going to the 'Bodies, The Exhibit'. This fascinating display of real cadavers, elegantly preserved, and showing the body in various layers and poses is a MUST SEE. I was just enthralled seeing the muscles, internal organs, blood vessels, and bones in 3D rather than in a flat, text book illustration.

The human body is such a miracle! After spending hours in the exhibit, I was in awe of my body and the unbelievable systems that make it work. I also wondered how any of us make it past 20 with poor diet, injuries, bumps, bruises, illnesses etc. Somehow this incredible computer-machine we walk around in all day, and take very much for granted, manages to transcend our usually terrible treatment.

I left with a new found respect for this physical vehicle, and vowed to take better care of it!

The body is so incredibly delicate (the spinal cord looks like a bundle of silken, angel hair pasta!), yet so amazingly strong and resilient. I also pondered at who, or what, created such an amazing electro-magnetic machine.

Some folks might think that this 'Bodies' exhibit is creepy. Not in the least. It is so educational and awe-inspiring, and I learned so much about how all our 'parts' fit together so neatly!

Children, especially should see this to gain a better appreciation of their magnificent bodies, and hopefully treat their bodies with more respect and healthy habits.

'Bodies' has been around the world and may be winding down the 'global tour', but if this exhibit comes to a city near you DON'T MISS IT! It's still showing in major cities in the U.S. and around the world.

Go see it! http://www.bodiestheexhibit.com

Vegas - L.A. Tour

What a great tour of Vegas, L.A. and Santa Barbara! It's hard to imagine that I was walking on the beach in shorts in 77 degree weather just a couple of weeks ago, when the high here today in Utah is going to be around 26!

Las Vegas is always an adventure. I sang for the Center for Positive Living with their wonderful band, then did a 'Joyful Singing! Workshop' for an enthusiastic group. If you're ever in Vegas on Sunday, go hear Rev. Cynthia Clair for a fantastically inspiring message! For more info: http://www.thecenterlv.org/

anais nin quote

"And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a
bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom."

Anais Nin, French born, American Author of novels
and short stories, 1903-1977

Volare with Tuba

Okay. Most of us haven't thought of the elegant tuba as the most versatile of instruments. However, my friend, and fabulous tuba player, Ginger Bruner recently dazzled me when I dropped in on her gig in Vegas, playing Italian favorites.

Here's the fun part; the tuba, (it seems all so logical now) was carrying the bass line! OF COURSE! I think my favorite was Ginger holding the trio together on 'Three Coins In the Fountain'!

Ginger's been known to have some of the weirdest tuba gigs in the world; in fact, I think she seeks them out! Recently she played tuba with a rock band!

I have a newfound respect for the often maligned, and under-appreciated toooba.

Above is a photo of Ms. Bruner (who's also in the Broadcaster's Hall of Fame in Vegas) at the Italian Wine Bar gig. (I suggest the Talbot 'Sleepy Hollow' Chardonnay. It goes very well with tuba played Sicilian style)!

Las Vegas Workshop and Sushi Buffet!

Even though I lived in Vegas for many years, I'm always amazed when I come back to this wacky city! I've seen Elvis twice; Marilyn Monroe only once (she was doing some shopping at Trader Joe's!)

What's great about this place is that people come here to reinvent themselves. It's kind of like an early gold rush town - you can be anything or anyone, and NOBODY CARES!

Last Sunday I sang at The Center for Positive Living, then did my "Joyful Singing!" workshop afterwards. One of the participants said "I increased my range by AN OCTAVE!" I love hearing stuff like that! Once you let go and release your voice, great things happen.

When in Vegas I always eat at Makino where you get all you can eat sushi, seafood and everything else under the sun. Isn't my first plate beautiful?? I ate my fill of the salmon sushi.

Hey! My "INTEGRATED VOICE, VOCAL MASTERY SERIES" just rolled out! In Volume One, The Basics, you get 1) a vocal mastery exercise CD 2) The Seven Principles for an Integrated Voice Booklet 3) a BONUS CD - Viva La Voice Tips!

It'll be online soon, but you can pre-order; just send me an email or watch the website for more info!

My client, Ms. Sr. Utah!

Here's a great photo of my client, Janet Seamons, Ms. Sr. Utah! I was there to cheer Janet on at the national pageant for Ms. Sr. America that was held in Las Vegas on November 11th at the Imperial Palace.

What a great event to see gorgeous women (60 +) who are talented, articulate and incredibly beautiful! It was hard to believe that any of the women were over 40 - they all looked great.

Janet was in the top 10, and also won the highest honor of the night, a $5,000.00 scholarship for her favorite charity!

I love coaching pageant contestants; it's all about revealing that confident, authentic self, and learning how to get your message, talent and humanity across to the judges and audience.

Congratulations, Janet Seamons, Ms. Sr. Utah!!

Santa Barbara Bound!

On this mini tour coming up beginning Friday, I'll be heading to Santa Barbara, California. I grew up in SB and love it so much; this will be a great 'homecoming'.

For anyone fortunate enough to be living in the TriCounties area, I'll be singing at the Center of the Heart in Santa Barbara on November 19th. See my 'upcoming events' on the website.

Drop by and see me! Can't wait to see the ocean and smell the salty-sea-air!