I hope this month finds you well. It has been a pretty crazy one here. Just when I thought we would get through flu season without being sick, everyone seemed to come down with it at once-even the dog. So, everyone is on soup, rest and extra doses of Vitamin C.
I received an e-mail from a friend who saw my latest scene in Priest's Calling (a spin-off to the Crow: Purgatory II.) My character is Gloria - the pre- Alexis character- and we get to see just how she was attacked and prepared to become Alexis. In this movie, Gloria is attacked on the street and murdered. Having seen the rough cut of the scene, my friend suggested I do a posting on how to protect oneself from being attacked. I thought that would be a great idea!!!
I grew up in a very rough part of town and was almost attacked myself at the age of nine. I was walking to school and a man came up behind me, began touching me and tried to grab me and push me behind an apartment building. Scared to death, my legs just seemed to have gained a mind of their own and they began to run as fast as they could. I went along and when I got to my school, I told the school office what had happened. The police were called and I tried to explain what had happened but I was so embarrassed about where this man had touched me, I didn't give all the details. I don't know if they ever caught this man but from that point on, I learned very quickly how to defend myself.

So, I would like to pass on some tips on how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Please pass this on to any and all the ones you care about!
WHEN IN THE CAR:

* When you park, leave enough room in front of your car so you are not boxed in.
* Don't be afraid to blow your horn to attract attention.
* Keep your car in good working order, check fluids regularly and keep at least ¼ tank of gas in the car.
* Park in well-lit areas and forget about the idea of "parking away from the entrance for increased activity" I scream every time I hear that! There are plenty of ways to increase your activity- but putting yourself in danger isn't a smart one!
* Don't get out of the car if you are bumped by a car behind you.
* If you are out late at night and sitting at a red light; there is no traffic and you fear for your safety because someone suspicious comes up behind or beside you- don't wait for the light to turn green. If you are stopped by the police, explain the situation ( but don't use it as an excuse to run red lights )
* Keep doors locked at all times-even when driving
* When putting a baby in the baby seat. First get in the car with your baby, lock the doors and then buckle your little one up.
* Make sure your cell phone is charged at all times!!!