Okay. Being a firm believer in optimism, I feel it to be my duty to find and report some GOOD news among all the muck. I could very well be ranting about the economic choices of our superiors (and a certain octoplet mother *cough*), but I'm choosing not to.

Instead, I thought I'd bring some light onto great things that get less light in the media. I understand that negativity is what most people look for in their news nowadays, but let's face it, it's unhealthy. So here's a cool story I found for your personal informing and enjoyment. It comes straight from my backyard, focusing on one of my favorite places to go to in Los Angelas; The Page Museum and surrounding La Brea Tar Pits.

Scientists Discover Hug Cache of Fossils

Last week, they discovered the remains of countless Ice-Age era species under what was previously a parking lot near the tar pits. Among these pieces included an American lion skull and bones of saber-tooth cats, Dire wolves, bison, horses, sloths, and most amazing of all, an almost complete mammoth skeleton, which the scientists named Zed.

The discoveries are what they're calling "a paleontological Christmas," and may extend the Page Museum twice fold, adding onto their already impressive collection of bones in that area.

Three words: Pretty. Freaking. Cool. Click on the above link for the full story and cool pictures.

If any of you live near LA, by all means, go check this place out. It's a fantastic sight to see if animals and paleontology are a few of your interests. And heck, while you're there, check out the other museums in that district! They're all along Wilshire Blvd, and include the LACMA (Los Angelas County Museum of Art), the Petersen Auto Museum, and the Folk and Craft Art Museum. LA Locals can contact me if they want to know about other such institutes in the county area.

If you don't live in So. Cal., don't feel like I'm excluding you. Look around your local area! Pick up one of those big fat paperbacks called phone books, look up the nearest museums of interest, and go pay them a visit. No matter where your interests lie, I guarantee it'll be a magical and enlightening experience.

When you've found an area of interest that you'd like to visit, go to their website for parking/admission fees and visiting hours. Make a day out of it; invite a carpool or go with your family. Maybe plan it into a day out, between lunch and a movie. It's a wonderful alternative to sitting at home.

As artists, we all have an obligation to expose ourselves to the massive bulk of culture all around us. We cannot live in our little bubbles forever. Being more involved in the culture around us can have a wondrous impact on our artistic endeavors.

Basically, my message is generic, but true; to get out of the house and get an eyeful of the world around you. This is what I've taken from Design Symposia, a class which required me to visit cultural exhibits and events. Don't get me wrong, these events can also include movies, concerts, natural landmarks, amusement parks, and even sporting and racing events. Why do you think, against my general apathy towards sports, I still attend Dodger games and Monster Truck events?

Tired of hearing about the depressing news of the world? Then turn off the TV, get out of the house, and lose yourself in the bountiful cultural environment around you. You won't be disappointed.

And quite frankly, mammoth skeletons are just cooler to look at.