The Edit: an election, non-election edition

Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business. As much as I’d rather not make this edition about the election, I’d be remiss if I didn’t include something — or at least weave in a few correlations with today’s list. No matter your side, whether you’re engaged or disengaged, there’s something for everyone. So, let’s get to it.* An essential — red and blue — upgrade. We needed to update our wireless transmitters for clutter and cord-free monitoring during studio and field productions. We still love and use what we have but the latest iteration of Hollyland’s Mars 4K transmission system is much more streamlined than those we’ve had for a few years. You can purchase the transmitter and receivers separately or as a kit. Power them with a plug or batteries. Either way, their wacky bendable bunny ears have been replaced with smaller more manageable bulleted-style antennas. They also look better. Thankfully, the units maintain their SDI and HDMI connection options. But the biggest improvement is that its Hollyland’s first 4K transmission system. They also have better range and an up to four collaborators capability. I simply adore these little workhorses. And if you look closely at the set — one (the transmitter) is adorned with a red label while its pair (the receiver) has a blue one. And of course, one can’t work without the other. So, I think there’s a lesson in there somewhere.* A delightful diversion. If you’re perched in front of a screen and you’d rather watch something other than election returns all night, I recommend this delightful diversion — season two of The Diplomat on Netflix. I actually binged the whole new six episode season in one sitting — I didn’t plan it that way — and I'm not ashamed. Like season one — this season is on the highly recommended list, especially for Keri Russell fans who’ve been craving her comeback since The Americans. While not quite the same — The Diplomat still itches the political conspiracy and intrigue scratch. And a female veep (or two) also happen to come into play. Don’t worry, there are no subtle nor overt references to real-life controversies or divisiveness. Just good ‘ole spy stuff with great actors and exciting plot lines.* But if you wanna watch. With a chill in the air and a night that’s likely to bleed into the next day, watching the counts come in in a pair of my new cozies (PJ’s) is the way to go. This organic cotton set from Pact can be worn for sleep, couch surfing, even stepping out. It’s technically considered loungewear and certainly “tailored” enough to make a quick grocery run or hair pulling walk down the driveway to vent — if needed. If you’re not familiar with Pact, their high-quality, fair-trade certified, sustainable clothing — without the high price tag — feels divine. I’m a hot sleeper but the breathability that comes from the cotton material, is fantastic and doesn’t get me overheated. You can also purchase the set as separates and mix them up with other color or design options.And this final thing is a small one but, I love that their items are delivered in this cool, crinkly and — yes — actually recyclable paper material. So much fun for us tactile folks. * Some folks just shouldn’t weigh in. As a former editorial page editor for a national newspaper, I am happy to see this piece from Bari Weiss at The Free Press (a great Substack publication BTW). I couldn’t agree more with the premise that newspapers need to butt out of endorsements. Then and now I’ve consistently maintained that papers should not be in the business of endorsing a presidential — or any other — candidate. Weiss just so happens to articulate this better than I can. I don’t even know why this practice has become socially acceptable. It’s not and should never be the role of a newspaper’s editorial page. Who or what does it serve? Publications should stick with presenting readers with information, not how to vote. There is no collective we when a news organization decides who it will support. And how could there be? Surely, staff opinions are just as mixed or “divided” as the rest of the country — aren’t they? Anyway, read the article — it says everything I want to but in a nice way.* A jolt of juice. For the sake of peace, you’ll probably want to put down that alcoholic beverage for tonight and pick up a better pick me up — Suja beet juice. This is not only my drink of choice for a burst or energy or settling an upset stomach — but to curb sweet cravings and pretty much anytime. It is that good. Don’t be dissuaded by the beets — there are a few other fruits mixed in that add to the overall flavor quite well. And I don’t like beets at all! But I can drink them like this. I’ve also never been a juice or soda drinker — still not — but when I crave it this is what I grab and it’s not like other syrupy, super sweet juice drinks. Suja’s cold-pressed concoction is earthy with just the right amount of sweet (thanks to the apples). It’s also better for you in this context because it’s 100% juice, organic and has no added sugar. But if you’re really beet averse, there are a variety of other flavors you can choose from. And they each have their own unique, holistic benefits.* Make it a clean sweep. Let’s just say no matter who your candidate is or was — we could all use a rinsing off after this election cycle. I mean, the grime comes with the territory in one way or other. That doesn't mean we have to wallow in it. So, let’s all have a good rinse shall we? A great way to do that is with The Earthling Co’s body wash bar — made with essential oils, no parabens and varying levels of exfoliation depending on the bar you choose. I have a different bar in every room with a sink, including the kitchen. Not only do the bars arrive in zero waste packaging, they last longer than liquid soap and don’t dry out my skin the way traditional soaps have. If you’re thinking soap is just soap — as I once did — think again. It’s not. You’ll see why when you try these. I’ve tried a few of their varieties and — my only caveat — I would recommend against the charcoal grey. While it smells amazing, looks chic and leaves my skin supper soft, for some reason it turns into a clumpy, goopy, and soggy mess. And that’s unfortunate because I REALLY love the smell. What I do have on repeat though are the Wildflower and Herb Garden bars — my hands down favorites.That’s another Auteur Edit. I hope you found something useful — and voted! Thanks again for your support. I’d love to hear what you think or might want to add to this week’s list. Leave me a comment. This is a public episode. 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