May Grey/June Gloom

Here in the southland, early summer brings some strange weather. Clouds linger through the mornings, burn off in the early afternoon and then return in the evening. This is called "May grey" and "June gloom."



If you like some satellite images, check out this visualization of marine stratus clouds swirling along the southern California coast in mid-June 2004.




Well, for those who prefer more conventional pictures, take heart that the overcast conditions do nothing to minimize the beauty of the jacarandas. These lovely purple-flowered trees are now in full bloom ...



... and leaving their petals all along the streets and lawns.



I think you'll agree with me that this intermingling of green and purple answers well to certain strands of Post-Impressionist-inspired painting. I offer you here one of friend Michael Knutson's early lawnchair series as an example of what I have in mind. But surely you'll have your own references early to hand.



Sure, the absence of sun can be a little gloomy. But, it also invites a certain silent reverie in the face of scenes like this.

Cruisin', the Old Ken way

So, once again Old Ken has fallen off the bloggin' wagon. As a way back in, I offer you this gem, which just arrived in my mailbox this morning:

"Dear Professor Digby:

"We are Sixth Star Entertainment & Marketing, the leading provider of 'Edu-tainment' Programs to the cruise industry. We staff top cruise lines with engaging Destination and Special Interest Speakers. Guest Speakers are invited on board to speak on a variety of topics and enjoy a low-cost vacation for you and a guest. Opportunities are available worldwide and it's a great way to share your knowledge and visit exotic ports of call.



"Guest speakers are considered part of the enrichment staff on board ship, and have all the regular passenger privileges, such as pool use, daytime activities, nightly entertainment, use of spa services and more. As a guest speaker, you will enjoy fantastic gourmet meals in the dining room and might even be asked to host a table and based on your knowledge, be asked to escort a shore excursion. Guest Lecturers are charged $65 per night and receive their own passenger cabin on board. They are welcomed to bring one companion to travel with them in the same cabin at no additional charge.

"As part of our lecture program, you would be requested to deliver a number of 45-minute presentations based upon the length of the voyage and each lecture will be followed by a 15 minute question/answer period. A Destination Speaker's responsibility is to give a series of original presentations illustrating the history, culture, and/or geography of the countries on the cruise itinerary. A Special Interest Speaker would discuss topics such as art, astronomy, music, maritime history, sports or other subjects. Typically, PowerPoint or other visual aids accompany the lectures.



Subjects of Interest
* European History (Eastern, Western, Northern)
* Mediterranean History
* Latin & Central American History
* Caribbean History / Culture / Traditions
* Flora & Fauna
* Forensic Science [please see picture above]
* Geography
* Art History
* Oceanography
* Marine Science
* Music History

"If you are interested in this program, have speaking experience and excellent presentation skills, and love to socialize with people who have a thirst for continuing education and enrichment, then we want to learn more about you.

"We encourage you to visit our website, www.sixthstar.com to learn more about Sixth Star and to complete an on line application. Once your application is received a member of our Outreach Team will contact you.

"We look forward to receiving your application. Please don't hesitate to contact us, should you have any questions.

"Sincerely,

Dorine Nielsen
Manager of Entertainment Programs"

SWEET!