Need for Soothing Music During Tough Times

Despite the constant flow of the world’s news, many individuals find themselves in challenging situations. Notably, Connie Stevens, a beloved icon, is currently in a Los Angeles nursing home at age 86. A close confidant, John Cohan, who has known her since childhood in Brooklyn, requests prayers for her healing. Sadly, Connie’s singing career may be behind her, as she has expressed that she will not perform on stage again.

She rose to fame through her role in the TV series Hawaiian Eye (1959-1963), inspiring generations of kids to imitate her style with false eyelashes, ponytails, and balloon skirts. Despite her brief stint in a controversial 1974 adult film The Sex Symbol, even she might prefer to forget it.

Wild Encounters in Nature

Wildlife continues to intrude on human spaces. Recently, a tiny Maltese dog was playing on a well-maintained lawn in Weston near Boston, watched over from a nearby kitchen. A coyote suddenly emerged from the woods and snatched the dog despite frantic efforts to save it. Similarly, in another country estate guarded by alarms and security, a Shih Tzu was frightened by an overhead eagle swooping dangerously close. A neighbor had earlier lost their pet to an eagle attack.

During a recent visit to Jackson Hole, I encountered a startling scene: a massive black bear attempting to open a door, gazing directly at me with curiosity and menace. The encounter was terrifying, prompting me to leave immediately and return home to New York.

Protecting Our Vulnerable Populations

The aging infrastructure of America is deteriorating, with bridges, tunnels, and buildings showing signs of decay. This decline reflects a loss of patience, respect, and familial bonds, impacting societal safety and stability. My thoughts also extend to the animals and elderly, as they are particularly vulnerable in these times.

As a dedicated animal lover and long-time member of the ASPCA’s international board, I have organized events like the Blessing of the Animals at Christ Church on Park Avenue. My own Yorkshire terrier, Jellybean, is a source of immense love, despite her occasional bathroom mishaps — an inconvenience I gladly accept.