whats-on, things-to-do,
IF the Australian music industry wasn't hurting enough last year at the height of the pandemic, its collective heart was almost certainly broken by the passing of Mike Noga on August 26. Aged just 43, Noga had established a fine career as a one-time drummer for award-winning rock band The Drones and as a solo artist in his own right. Noga's 2016 concept album King, based on the 1830s play Woyzeck by German dramatist Georg Buchner, was an unnerving - and at the same time - beautiful listen. Shortly before his death, which a coroner attributed to a cerebral haemorrhage exacerbated by bouts of heavy drinking, Noga described his upcoming album as "a healthy dose of impending doom about the state of the world." Noga's fourth and final album Open Fire was written in his hometown of Hobart before he travelled to Minnesota in August 2019 to record with Alan Sparhawk of indie-rock band Low. Open Fire is imbued with a foreboding undertone of Berlin-era Bowie and The Velvet Underground. Creeping synths introduce the opener Covered where Noga pleads, "Could you start at the beginning/ Close your book and face the world." But there's also elements of hope breaking through the bleakness, like green shoots in the snow. The title track bounces along with a Bruce Springsteen swagger and builds before crashing into a soaring blast of saxophone. Little Birdy is another playful number as Noga urges, "Come on little darling now dance with me." What Noga lacked in vocal range was more than compensated in character and drama. You Breathe For Me is the album's centre point, a gut-wrenching and yearning love song made more poignant by backing vocals from Low's Mimi Parker. "Like a soul needs saving/ Can the world below me see/ You breathe for me." Noga will forever be remembered for his powerful drumming on The Drones' classic albums Gala Mill (2006) and Havilah (2008), but Open Fire will ensure his legacy as a solo artist also continues to illuminate.
/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/E9srhG6YCw3ZDt9UDADP4R/7f7ce310-3766-4ac5-b1b9-5530ab00a2e2.jpg/r0_1108_4724_3777_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg
October 7 2021 - 7:00AM
ALBUM REVIEW: Mike Noga's legacy continues to burn bright on posthumous Open Fire
Josh Leeson
LAST FLAME: Open Fire is the fourth and final album from the late Mike Noga.
IF the Australian music industry wasn't hurting enough last year at the height of the pandemic, its collective heart was almost certainly broken by the passing of Mike Noga on August 26.
Aged just 43, Noga had established a fine career as a one-time drummer for award-winning rock band The Drones and as a solo artist in his own right.
Noga's 2016 concept album King, based on the 1830s play Woyzeck by German dramatist Georg Buchner, was an unnerving - and at the same time - beautiful listen.
Shortly before his death, which a coroner attributed to a cerebral haemorrhage exacerbated by bouts of heavy drinking, Noga described his upcoming album as "a healthy dose of impending doom about the state of the world."
Noga's fourth and final album Open Fire was written in his hometown of Hobart before he travelled to Minnesota in August 2019 to record with Alan Sparhawk of indie-rock band Low.
Open Fire is imbued with a foreboding undertone of Berlin-era Bowie and The Velvet Underground. Creeping synths introduce the opener Covered where Noga pleads, "Could you start at the beginning/ Close your book and face the world."
But there's also elements of hope breaking through the bleakness, like green shoots in the snow.
The title track bounces along with a Bruce Springsteen swagger and builds before crashing into a soaring blast of saxophone.
Little Birdy is another playful number as Noga urges, "Come on little darling now dance with me."
What Noga lacked in vocal range was more than compensated in character and drama.
You Breathe For Me is the album's centre point, a gut-wrenching and yearning love song made more poignant by backing vocals from Low's Mimi Parker.
"Like a soul needs saving/ Can the world below me see/ You breathe for me."
Noga will forever be remembered for his powerful drumming on The Drones' classic albums Gala Mill (2006) and Havilah (2008), but Open Fire will ensure his legacy as a solo artist also continues to illuminate.
This story Mike Noga's legacy continues to burn brightly first appeared on Newcastle Herald.


Previous / Nurburgring 24h: Manthey Porsche wins shortest-ever edition Next / BMW showed M6 still fast on Nurburgring farewell - van der Linde
GT News
Cancelled Suzuka 10 Hours Intercontinental GT Challenge race won't be replaced
The Intercontinental GT Challenge season will comprise of just three races this year following championship organiser SRO's decision to not replace the cancelled Suzuka 10 Hours.
Jamie Klein
Jun 8, 2021, 8:22 AM
Back in March, it was announced the Suzuka IGTC fixture planned for 20-22 August had been scrubbed from the IGTC schedule for a second year in a row owing to the continued effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
At that time, the championship said the 10-hour race would be replaced with a new event in the Middle East.
However, those plans have now been abandoned, with SRO stating that a "combination of calendar clashes, budget implications and general suitability has made a replacement round impossible to stage".
It means this year's IGTC campaign will now be made up of just three races: the Spa 24 Hours (29 July-1 August), the Indianapolis 8 Hour (15-17 October) and the Kyalami 9 Hour (2-4 December).
SRO founder Stephane Ratel commented: "We invested much time and energy into finding a replacement event that would uphold Intercontinental's purpose of uniting the world's great GT endurance races.
"And although several options would have achieved this aim, each also presented a new set of challenges to overcome. Given the current global situation I believe it is better to focus our energies on IGTC's three existing rounds.
"I would like to thank each of the parties and promoters for their positive collaboration and hope to work with them again in the future.
"Indeed, although Intercontinental won't be visiting the Middle East this year I remain confident that these discussions will subsequently allow us to explore fresh opportunities."
The Suzuka 10 Hours is the only official casualty of this year's IGTC schedule so far, although travel restrictions prevented the series' traditional Bathurst 12 Hour curtain-raiser from going ahead in its usual February slot.
It remains unclear whether the global health situation will have eased sufficiently for the Australian race to be held again in 2022, when it would be normally expected to open the new IGTC season.
Nurburgring 24h: Manthey Porsche wins shortest-ever edition
BMW showed M6 still fast on Nurburgring farewell - van der Linde
Daytona 24 Hours
How Blomqvist rediscovered Verstappen-beating potential at MSR
HPD boss "amazed" by GTP reliability on debut at Daytona 24 Hours
The 2021 disappointment fuelling a Super Formula title hopeful
The F1 technology behind Mercedes' Nordschleife record hypercar
It's taken over half a decade of development but now the Mercedes-AMG One is here – boasting 1048bhp from a Formula 1-based hybrid powertrain and smashing the Nurburgring Nordschleife lap record for a production car with Maro Engel at the wheel last month. ROBERT HOLMES wonders if it can now claim to be the ultimate hypercar...
How to get the best out of amateur racers
By James Newbold
Pro-Am GT racing is booming. But how should drivers approach working with an amateur? Autosport sought out a panel of experts to explain the pitfalls amateur drivers should avoid and how professionals can help them to achieve their goals
The remarkable career of a 'classy' champion who rejected politics
Over two decades as a factory driver with Audi and BMW, Martin Tomczyk earned the respect of team-mates and rivals as a hard but fair racer. After calling time on his racing career, the 2011 DTM champion sat down with Autosport to look back
The ex-IndyCar racer in "uncharted territory" of British GT team ownership
This weekend's British GT finale will be a tense title showdown for some but, for those not in the championship fight, it's a chance to end a challenging year on a high. In the latter camp is Paddock Motorsport's team owner Martin Plowman, whose 2021 season has been a rollercoaster ride of non-stop learning
The unpopular BMW stalwart built for the big occasion
It has won most of the big prizes in endurance racing across its six years in service, but the BMW M6 GT3's key weaknesses meant only a devoted few teams persisted with running it. As it prepares to bow out at season's end, the teams and drivers involved in its story share the secrets of an unpopular winner
The unwanted GT car that changed sportscar racing forever
Had FIA GT boss Stephane Ratel had his way, the Maserati MC12 would never have been allowed to set foot in his series. It duly proved the class of the field that most had expected, but the Balance of Performance that its superiority spawned would keep GT1 battles tight and bring long-term benefits that sportscar racing enjoys today
Why Britain's greatest sportscar was eclipsed on the world stage
The E-Type may be the most famous of all road-going Jaguars, but that didn't always translate into success on the track. After winning on its competition debut in 1961, motorsport success seemed an inevitability, but things didn't turn out to be quite that straightforward
Why the Jaguar E-type remains special at 60
By Ben Anderson
It's 60 years since the Jaguar E-type arrived and caused a sensation. As our resident racer Ben Anderson discovered when he got behind the wheel of two special racing versions at Brands Hatch, the thrill of driving them hasn't diminished over time


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Who Are We? Benno Groosman, the Entrepreneurial CEO
Not everyone is brave enough to take the leadership of a ground-breaking start-up like Surge-on Medical. Luckily, we have Benno.
From the innovative kid to the businessman
Originally from the historical city of Delft, the Netherlands, Benno has always been on the move. Even from a young age, he was always looking for business opportunities and convincing his classmates to join him. With an incredible ability to detect business opportunities from his environment, Benno was constantly innovating when other kids were just playing catch.
Naturally, Benno was destined for a business life.
After one year at the Delft University of Technology and Leiden University (studying Life Science & Technology), he followed his passion for business and enrolled into one of the most entrepreneurial business schools: the Erasmus University Rotterdam. There, he completed his Bachelor in Business Administration and Master in Entrepreneurship & New Business Venturing (specializing in entrepreneurial finance) programs. However, Benno could no longer wait until his graduation to start his first medical technology (medtech) business together with a fellow student. Prior to that, Benno grew his private tutoring company to a team of 10 tutors, but he wanted to build a highly scalable and impactful business and therefore got into innovative medtech.
Salusion was Benno's first company in the medtech sector, which was focused on severely incontinent people. The business was to help ensure adult diapers were changed at the right time with the help of a passive chip placed in the diapers. They filed three different patents and had three different products on the market. But suddenly, they had to file for bankruptcy, because one of their suppliers withdrew his guarantee on their bank loan. "I learned a lot of lessons from it, which I can now pass along to aspiring entrepreneurs," recalls Benno from this experience.
International journey
Benno's vision has been enriched by meaningful interactions with the business world across borders. After Salusion, he was invited to work for a new international accelerator in Brazil. Then, he went to Budapest to write a recommendation for a new cleantech incubator.
Later, Benno worked at the Dutch Embassy in Athens to help young entrepreneurs to turn their ideas into a self-sustaining business, addressing both the "brain drain" and youth unemployment in Greece.
"The whole field of incubation and helping other start-ups with my experience and network became more and more interesting to me. I worked with several start-ups and did consulting to governments. At some point, I realised that it was time for a bigger project," says Benno.
Back in the Netherlands, Benno gathered all his international knowledge to create a platform aiming to promote entrepreneurial initiatives worldwide. At Groosman.co Startups, Benno provided experienced guidance and hands-on management of projects in multiple areas for local and national governments, universities, event organizers, start-ups, investors, large companies and NGOs. Together with his previous business mentor, he completed a management buy-out for VirtualMedSchool, where Benno became CFO.
At Surge-on Medical and beyond
After crossing paths with Tim Horeman a couple of times in their previous companies, Benno and Tim got together to found Surge-on Medical in 2015. "I've known Benno for more than 10 years, and I knew he was the right choice for the CEO role," says Horeman, co-founder and CTO of Surge-on Medical. "His experience in business and especially in the healthcare industry were what I was looking for. He is the support that I need for Surge-on Medical, the exact complement to my skills necessary to build a strong and successful company."
Today, Benno has successfully led Surge-on Medical through diverse international initiatives and partnerships. The company has been recognized by the relevance of its steerable technology in many occasions, where Benno has played a key role in showcasing Surge-on Medical's impact. His relevant contacts in the fields of funding, finance and business development have been crucial for Surge-on Medical's development, and his entrepreneurial approach allowed for the creation of strong international partnerships.
As the energetic businessman that he is, Benno gets regularly invited to national and international events to share his knowledge and to inspire others to create their own ventures.
"Business is my passion, but adding medical technology to that really gives it a purpose. Our innovations truly have the power to improve lives," states Benno. "My goal is to make Surge-on Medical a leading company in the field of minimally invasive surgery through continuous innovation and building partnerships with the best parties around the world."
"The first cross-border European equity crowdfunding campaign we're running now, supported by EIT Health and Aescuvest, is an example of the previous. It combines my interest in entrepreneurial finance with truly opening up our company to investors throughout Europe (and even beyond). We develop innovations for the public good, and now the public can join us on that very rewarding journey!" finalizes Benno.
Do you want to get in touch with Benno? Click here or here to send him a message.
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Jaunty launch trailer celebrates the arrival of Cities XXL
By Brenna Hillier, Friday, 6 February 2015 00:11 GMT
Cities XXL looks like a remarkably cheerful little upgrade to the established simulation.
An upgraded version of Cities XL, Cities XXL arrived on digital distributors today and arrives in store next week.
Described as "a bigger, more complete city-builder pushing the city limits to the edge of your imagination", it apparently has an improved game engine, classic and extended city-building content, over 1000 buildings and structures in 47 architectural styles, more than 65 maps including new landscapes and environments, and ecological features. It also has Steam Workshop support, with 50 new buildings waiting already.
If you own Cities XL you can buy this new version at 50% off on Steam. User reviews suggest there's not much to differentiate it from the original, though.


Stampede of Paid News
The sudden spurt in the instances of paid news, particularly during elections, is a blot on free press and democracy. Can Press Council and Parliament take measures to curb such dangerous tendencies?
"Today, the demands of professional journalists are carefully balanced with the interests of owners and stakeholders of media companies and their cross media interests. The interplay of these conflicting demands is evident and subject of public debate."
- Mohammad Hamid Ansari, Vice President of India
Fourth Estate has an identifiable commercial and explicitly for-profit persona. Participation of corporations and mafia in politics has been an open secret from the outset. Now there is emerging evidence that they are participants in media as well, making it difficult to define the journalism in the era of Paid News.
No sane citizen wants foreign interests impacting democratic elections through paid news; this applies equally to national businesses and even individuals. All the political parties, Indian parliament and the community of journalists need to discuss the definition of journalism once again in the face of its failure to separate blatantly partisan and merely for profit media outlets from those outlets that are striving for unbiased reporting beyond the thin veneer of neutral content?
The report of sub-committee of the Press Council of India on the Paid News Scandal dated 1st April, 2010 is an important and historical report which is to be discussed by all the members of the Council on 26th April, 2010. The report is as significant as Barack Obama's statement dated 21st January, 2010 criticizing US Supreme Court's ruling that "has given a green light to a new stampede of special interest money in our politics." The phenomenon of paid news does the same by drowning out the voices of common Indians. If the current trend is allowed corporations can spend unlimited amounts of money in the elections.
So far unregulated and indiscriminate increase in the income of the mainstream media through paid news has remained off the radar of Press Council. The issue raises compelling and serious questions about its purposeful existence if it cannot ensure 'conflict-of-interest' free news reporting that is being undermined for good.
To paraphrase Obama in Indian context, "paid news gives the special interests and their lobbyists even more power" while undermining the influence of average citizens. We are going to talk with bipartisan Congressional leaders to develop a forceful response to this decision. The public interest requires nothing less." Indian parliament also needs to act in a similar way.
The 71 page report of the sub-committee of the Press Council confirms and establishes the phenomenon of widespread practice of "paid news vindicated by politicians and campaign managers of political parties".
But "the rate cards that had been formulated by media houses and had been passing around during elections were just typed sheets of paper which carried nothing on it to attribute it to a particular newspaper/television news channel that had put it together nor anything that could be attributed to a journalist/advertisement agent." The report notes that the pernicious practice of "paid news" has become widespread in both print and electronic, English and non-English languages all over the country.
It recommends for Press Council guidelines to the effect that news should be clearly demarcated from advertisements by printing disclaimers and reiterates that as far as news is concerned, it must always carry a credit line and should be set in a typeface that would distinguish it from advertisements. It calls on media organizations to refrain from the practice of engaging stringers and correspondents who double up as agents collecting advertisements for their organizations.
The report seeks mandatory provision for "all candidates/political parties to fully disclose their equity stakes and/or financial interests in newspapers/television channels on which news about their candidates/parties as well as interviews with candidates and/or representatives of the political parties are published or broadcast. If a candidate is being interviewed or given positive publicity on a particular newspaper/television channel, the association (financial or otherwise) of the candidate with the newspaper/television channel if any must be disclosed to the reader/viewer." It seeks amendment by the Parliament in the Section 123 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 to make the practice of paying for news coverage in newspapers and television channels an "electoral malpractice" or an act of corruption and made a punishable offence.
The sub-committee recommends that the Election Commission of India should nominate independent journalists and/or public figures as observers in consultation with the Press Council of India who would accompany the election observers deputed by it. It seeks establishment of a body of media professionals to investigate instances of "paid news" with mechanism to make its recommendations enforceable. It recommends that the mandate of the Press Council be widened to receive complaints and grievances about the working of television channels, radio stations or pass strictures but also impose penalties against errant individuals and organizations. The long pending proposal to amend Section 15(4) of the Press Council Act, 1978, to make the directions of the Council binding must be acted upon.
Earlier, the 5-4 decision of US Supreme Court on January 21, 2010 held that corporate funding of independent political broadcasts in candidate elections cannot be limited. The US Court struck down a provision that prohibited all corporations, both for-profit and not-for-profit, and unions from broadcasting "electioneering communications." An "electioneering communication" was defined as a broadcast, cable, or satellite communication that mentioned a candidate within 60 days of a general election or thirty days of a primary. Some journalists and politicians in US reacted to this decision strongly saying, "within ten years every politician in this country will be a prostitute".
If the trend of paid news in India is not reversed, the same would hold true for journalists and politicians as media houses without exception would soon become brothels with fixed rates for every act or omission.
While the Vice-President is right about the difficult task of providing remedy against the incestuous interests of professional journalists, owners and stakeholders of media companies and their cross media interests, the same holds true for the interlinked relationship between the political parties and corporations of all ilk.
The question of corporate sponsorship of political parties and its candidates also merits legislative action. For nothing short of state funding for elections as recommended by Parliamentary Committee under the chairmanship of Indrajit Gupta can insulate political parties and private contributors of funds who seek favorable government decisions later. The committee had said that the Government and Parliament should decide whether there should be any ban on donations by companies and corporate bodies for political purposes.
If the parliament can act on the report of sub-committee of the Press Council and the recommendations of the parliamentary committee on state funding with the urgency that it merits, it can stop such malpractices in the Indian media that makes all
political parties and citizens feeble victims with no remedy in sight.
By Gopal Krishna
Source:dsector


« Author Christopher Bakken Discusses New Culinary Memoir The Orphan Trilogy's Chicago Connection »
Author Thu Sep 12 2013
What Are Your Live Lit Pet Peeves?
By Erika Price
If you're an avid reader of the GB Book Club, you probably are a fan of storytelling and live lit events in Chicago. Perhaps you also read memoirs and creative nonfiction, or enjoy storytelling podcasts like The Moth and This American Life.
But with a love of live literature and personal storytelling, there also comes an aversion to certain topics. We've all been there. One minute you're laughing along to a hilarious, madcap story from a talented storyteller, the next you're rolling your eyes and uncomfortably shifting in your seat while someone blubbers creepily about stalking their ex-boyfriend or describes a bodily function in stomach-churning detail. Whether we are sick of a topic because it is too common or because it's just personally off-putting, we all have some storytelling pet peeves. So let's talk about a few, and then open the floor for you to share yours in the comments.
1. Breakup Stories
People love to create raw, uncomfortable art about emotional anguish and unrequited love. It's a phenomenon that dates back to the middle school cafeteria, or perhaps the beginning of time. And since the beginning of time, people have been telling the heartbroken to buck up and find something else to focus on and talk about other than their ex.
There is nothing wrong with telling a story about a break-up, of course, but many people venture into this topic when the wound is still too fresh. It takes a bit of perspective and distance to write thoughtfully and interestingly about such a personal drama. Sometimes, the story of your sweeping, epic heartbreak belongs in a private Google document rather than on the stage. We all have the bad poetry to prove it.
2. Coming-of-Age Sexual Awakening Stories
In the hands of the right writer, nothing can be so touching and relatable as a sexual bildungsroman. In the wrong hands, it can seem, well, masturbatory. Early adolescent crushes and fumbling sexual experiences are frequent live storytelling fodder, so before you tell a story about your first time, make sure you're bringing something unique to the topic.
Again, an adult perspective can bring a lot of depth to what would otherwise be a self-involved, somewhat immature topic. When an author is able to recognize the mistakes they made in their early romantic life (particularly the wrong-headed assumptions they made about themselves or the people they were attracted to), their coming-of-age story can be hilarious, deep, and sweet. But when a writer can't get over their adolescent flame or their embarrassing screw-ups, the audience can get a bit bored.
3. Nostalgic Childhood Stories
Don't get me wrong: I have heard some witty, charming, and enlightening stories about childhood at various live lit events. A well-written, clearly thought-out childhood reminiscence can transport the listener and provide all kinds of new information about the author's background. Childhood recollections might be some of the most potent, most humanizing storytelling topics available. But without a strong editorial sense, a childhood story can easily warp into a meandering, syrupy-sweet tale that no one but the author relates to.
It's hard to condense distant past experiences into a tight narrative. Memory just isn't that linear. And it's even harder for a writer to take the audience's perspective and figure out what they will find interesting and what they will find boring and navel-gazing. Generally, I think that if a childhood story has no narrative arch and is too self-serious, it runs the risk of putting the readers off. Instead of sharing a bunch of disconnected memories and moments that are meaningful only to you, find the story at the heart of your past experiences.
4. Recent Traumas
Making art about a recent misfortune or tragedy is the most difficult endeavor of all. And of course, when a person has just experienced a major life event, it's only natural that they want to talk about it and process it. But when a writer or storyteller ventures into a recent trauma before they have fully coped with it, the result can be a hushed, fidgety audience, and a few too many tears.
Again, a caveat is in order: some of the best work I have ever heard or read has been about tragedy. For example, Samantha Irby's essay about taking care of her MS-afflicted mother is absolutely soul-shattering and revelatory. And at live lit events around Chicago, you'll frequently hear remarkable, affecting stories about loss, mental illness, addiction, financial insolvency, divorce, senility, discrimination, and many other raw, wrenching topics. Occasionally, though, you will also see someone over-share and attempt to process a recent trauma onstage, and the result is wrenching and discomfiting in all the wrong ways.
None of these pet peeves are absolute, of course. A lot of great writing has been done about all four of these topics, and storytellers should continue to probe them; it's just a matter of how. Writing artfully about any of these four subjects, I would argue, requires a high level of emotional distance, insight, and editorial skill.
It's not that writing about losing your virginity or getting dumped should be verboten. Those are great, fertile topics that almost everyone can relate to! Just make sure you do it in a writerly way, after you've had sufficient time to consider the event and find the story lurking within it.
What are your storytelling pet peeves? What makes a personal story relatable and interesting to you? Post your ideas in the comments below or tweet me @erikadprice; I'm hoping to write a follow-up piece sharing others' ideas.
vise77 / September 11, 2013 12:16 PM
I think you covered it well, but may I add this: younger writers (god bless them, they are only learning) talking about being a punk music (post punk?) type of person in a small town before Chicago, or being generally out of place in school, or something along those lines. Call it the misfit beat, perhaps. I've heard sooo many of these stories, and while I do get tired of them, I also understand they are a part of many writers' needed writing experience. But, hey, we are all misfits, right? So perhaps dial those stories back? And let's just state: We can't all be Joe Meno.
What I would love to hear are more stories about the recent immigrant experience in Chicago, the new groups, or even the newer waves of older immigrant groups.
Erika Price / September 11, 2013 12:37 PM
Vise: Great points! And thank you for also mentioning what topics you'd like to hear *more* about-- it's probably way way more productive to talk about what kinds of stories (and kinds of storytellers) we need to hear more of than to rag on the tropes that occur too often...So people should throw those suggestions in the comments too, maybe for another future post!
Carly / September 11, 2013 2:59 PM
I don't think there are any topics that come off as "pet peeves" for me. Personally, I think what makes you successful at a live lit event is story craftmanship and delivery. Not every writer is a great public speaker and vice versa. But I don't think I've ever walked into a show silently hoping "X" wasn't going to be the subject of someone's story. You mention Samantha Irby's essay and I'd like to point out that the reading series Guts & Glory she co-hosts with Keith Ecker is one of the best around. All of the topics you mention above have been explored and I think participants in this particular show are encouraged to dig deep, often covering these subjects. IMO, pet peeves for me are readers who don't respect time limits and shows that are unorganized or not well curated. I'm still working to make a show that's entertaining and accessible and know tweaking is needed even eighteen months in. Maybe the overall gist here is that you should really think about where you're at mentally and whether or not it's appropriate for an audience, regardless of what the topic is.
Ryan / September 11, 2013 4:54 PM
This is severely limiting. No topic should be off limits for a writer. What's important to keep in mind is what's interesting and different about their common experience. A big part of storytelling is identifying with the writer and seeing a bit of yourself there, sharing in that experience. You've heard them a lot because they are common experiences, so you're correct that the key to keeping it interesting would be for the writer to find what's unique about their own version of this common experience. But if we eliminate all these types of stories, we lose most of nearly every writer's childhood and early adult life. All topics should be on the table. But there should be a writer's version of the Hippocratic Oath. First do no harm would be "first, don't be boring." So the takeaway from this column is really don't write the same story we've already heard.
Don / September 11, 2013 7:19 PM
• Time. Don't waste it. Condense, condense, condense. Some stories can (and should) be told in 12 minutes but most should not.
• "I'm the Hero in This Story" Ugh. The trouble with the bad break up stories or the recent trauma stories is that often they are stories of victimhood. Victim stories are only interesting if you are actually an effing victim. Otherwise, focus on how YOU were responsible for your downfall.
• Stand Up Rebranded. If you want to do stand up comedy, do THAT. If you want to tell stories, do that. Don't come to a storytelling stage to tell your jokes.
• Anecdotes. "This happened and then THIS happened and then..." A story is more than a list of events. A seven year old can tell a context-free narrative. Be better than a seven year old.
All that said, it isn't the story, it's the storyteller. A bad storyteller can crap all over a fantastic story; a great storyteller can read you a list of soup can ingredients and blow you away.
Greg / September 12, 2013 2:05 AM
That anyone anywhere would have the temerity to tell a writer/performer what to write about or how to present it. Who do you think you are? Storytelling is a personal art, made most meaningful because the connection between the artist and listener is both memorable AND ephemeral, and whether the story connects the writer to one or more people has nothing to do with some dictators deciding for the people what stories are deserving. On behalf of storytellers and writers everywhere, the notion that you have anything pertinent to say is just a figment of your (ahem) imagination.
Erika Price / September 12, 2013 4:55 PM
Greg: I really did strive in this piece to make it clear that none of these topics are off-limits. I have no interest in telling a writer or a performer what they aren't allowed to write about. Everyone has the right to delve into these topics. However, these are common topics, and ones where the storyteller runs a real risk of seeming overly sentimental, navel-gazing, or narcissistic in a way that might put the listener off. When a capable, seasoned writer tackles these topics, the results can be pure magic. But it's hard to make a reader/audience care about these experiences if there isn't a really unique voice or a ton of talent driving it. For me, anyway. Your mileage may vary.
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Altered Esthetics
2019 Film Festival
Christopher E. Harrison
Christopher E. Harrison / March 20, 2017 by Altered Esthetics
Christopher E. Harrison is a Twin Cities artist who is featured in Altered Esthetics' new exhibition, Turbulent Identities, on view at The Southern Theater from 3/3 - 4/2/2017. All are invited to the Opening Reception on Friday, 3/3, from 5:00-7:00 pm. RSVP on Facebook.
Christopher E. Harrison, Masquerade II, 2014, Plaster, Collage on Chicken Wire, 11" x 14"
You work in several mediums. Can you tell us more about the materials you use and how you choose them?
The materials I use vary depending on the piece. I try to stick to natural components like tempera paints, plaster, paper, inks, etc. I do this because I want to build sustainable materials into my practice, which then harken back to the organic themes that are prevalent in my work. I do use acrylic paint which is an exception because of its low toxicity and quick drying time.
In addition to making art, you also work as an arts educator. How do these two roles influence each other?
As an educator, providing the community with the service of discovering and appreciating the arts in its many forms is very important to me. Its an intellectual as well as an aesthetic benefit to society that we all as citizens should strive to uphold. I'm always learning from being in the space around great art and processing this information to give to patrons and this in turn informs my practice in the studio.
As of recently, you have described a change in your approach moving from dimensional/figurative art to a more non-objective, biomorphic/organic form of art. The works featured in Turbulent Identities demonstrate your earlier style, can you elaborate on what inspired you with these works? Do these themes show through your current works?
There's many inspirations inherent in my work, whether it be politically, socially or environmentally based. Although the earlier Masquerade series pieces are figurative as compared to my current work, the thread for me still deals with the ideal of "otherness," meaning that I create around images that could be seen as outside of the what is considered normal or obvious. As a person of color, this is a concept that I live with on a everyday basis. So whether it's through my older figurative works or abstract forms I use diverse optics like collage or disparate materials to tell those stories of differences coming together to create new experiences of seeing the world.
Christopher giving a tour at the Walker Art Center, Photo by J. Wren Supak
Cultural appropriation is the central theme to Turbulent Identities. What is cultural appropriation to you?
I define cultural appropriation as recognizing an aspect(s) of an alternate culture and adapting or absorbing it into the greater, more dominant culture for the greater culture's own benefit, so much so that the origins of this aspect becomes minimized or forgotten. For Turbulent Identities, I feel that the show's theme has artists challenge cultural definitions through their work and explore what a true diverse world looks like.
Do you believe it is possible to appreciate a culture without appropriating it? What advice would you give to humans unsure of how they can appreciate a friend, colleague or partner's culture without appropriating?
I do believe you can show culture appreciation as long as the history and origin of the culture are realized and shared in a respectful manner, even to the point where aspects can be borrowed to create some more interesting. The advice I would give is to always reference the source first. Knowledge is the greatest teacher. Learn what you can from people or information that's available so you'll know what is celebratory or taboo. If some cultures hold their identities as more sacred than others, respect that by leaving it alone!
Who are some of your favorite authors, artists or directors that address these complex ideas of identity and cultural exchange?
I enjoy James Baldwin's writing, in particular Native Son, a great tome for exploring the journey of a Black man's self discovery. I'm also inspired by Jean Michel Basquiat's work for it's in-your-face expressive visual sense of urban urgency that is still potent today. I'm also a fan of artists Joan Miro whimsy, Romare Bearden's grittiness, and indigenous arts from the Pre-Columbian era, Asia and Africa.
Christopher E. Harrison, Constellation Conception, 2016, Acrylic, tempera on raw canvas, 6' x 6'
Do you have any upcoming exhibitions and/or projects we should know about?
I have a show coming up in July at the Nemeth Art Center in Park Rapids, MN that will showcase my abstract art based on the themes of my creating an imaginary alien race.
Where can we find and follow you online?
My website is http://www.harrisonartstudio.net
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/christopher.e.harrison
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/charrchr
Twitter - https://twitter.com/@ceh8ball
All images courtesy of the artist.
Interview written by Shivani Vyas, edited by Sarah Kass.
featured artist, Christopher E. Harrison, Turbulent Identities February 20, 2018
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George Saunders, Anna Kendrick and More on Procrastination
WSJ. asks six luminaries to weigh in on a single topic. This month: Procrastination
Clockwise from top left: George Saunders, Anna Kendrick, Alan Menken, Melissa Arnot Reid, Gunnar Peterson, Lorna Simpson
Feb. 28, 2017 10:36 a.m. ET
"Procrastination has a psychological component; there's something you're trying to avoid. I spent most of my 20s procrastinating instead of writing, because I was afraid that if I started I'd find out that I wasn't any good and I'd have to go to law school or something. But over time I got comfortable with the idea of revision. I began to understand that the first draft is usually going to be crummy. I talk about this to my students, who are wonderful young writers. There is a tremendous struggle ahead for them. They must come to grips with their talents, and their anti-talents; they must figure out what they can do uniquely—and that's really hard. There are a lot of offramps, some that you can't even help. I tell them, I understand that it hurts to get critiqued in workshop, but it's important to try to get in relation to that criticism so that you can process it intelligently and benefit from it."
—Saunders is a writer. His novel Lincoln in the Bardo was published last month.
"I've come to learn that hesitation is not necessarily procrastination but an opportunity to think about and expand upon an idea or project. Those who work creatively, like writers and musicians and artists, are constantly on deadline; there are demands from different places to finish and bring things right out into the world. But it's essential for us to protect and serve the creative process. I separate out the practicality of the management of the work and my studio from my relationship with the work. Certainly, I have to create space and a timeline to keep in mind, and sometimes I finish ahead of deadline, which is miraculous, but the creative process is the driving force. These demands are real, but I have to make the demands fit around my working process as an artist. Deadlines are important, but they should never disrupt or rule a trajectory of thought."
—Simpson is an artist.
Gunnar Peterson
"A friend once told me that the way you do anything is the way you do everything. I live by that rule. Whatever it is, don't procrastinate, do it now. When it comes to health and fitness, a lot of people don't realize how harmful their current lifestyles are to their general well-being. Of course, there's a distinction between health and weight; it'd be incorrect to think that those things always go hand in hand. But it's important to stay in shape and stick to a fitness plan so that you can do all the things that you want to do in the future; maybe it's water-skiing in lakes around the world or just a bike ride down the block, but it would be a shame if you were unable to participate in those kinds of activities because of something physical. So why wait? Fitness anniversaries are overrated, that whole, 'I'm going to start after my 30th birthday'—just start! Find a reason, whether it's your kids or other loved ones."
—Peterson is a fitness expert and trainer.
"I'm not the type of person who does things on time. I feel as though if I'm going to answer one email, I should also open every other piece of mail, I should call my mom and dad and brother. All those things the perfect version of you would do, but she never comes! Setting out to write a memoir was like someone saying, 'Build your own house from scratch.' At first I thought that I might magically become one of those people who wrote on weekends or for an hour every night. But I am so not one of those people. When I finally came up against my third deadline, I decided to lock myself in a room for five days and be unbelievably strict with myself. Soon the task started to feel less insurmountable. Not all of it ended up in the final book, but at least I had written something—even if it wasn't immediately obvious, there was value in doing it."
—Kendrick is an actress who stars in the film Table 19, out this month. Her memoir, Scrappy Little Nobody, was released last year.
"In the '70s there was this motivational program called EST. You trained yourself to avoid procrastination because, as you learned, it was not only counterproductive, it also caused you pain. As a composer, I find that collaboration is a huge boon to overcoming procrastination since there's always someone depending on you. I don't like to disappoint people, so the last thing I'm going to do is procrastinate. Often, I'll make an appointment with my collaborator, and I don't leave the studio without having made some progress. But then there's the benign version of procrastination: patience. The further you get in your career, the more you begin to recognize that there is power and benefit in letting your thoughts marinate. Sometimes it's OK to wait, to walk away for a bit."
—Menken is a composer who scored Disney's Beauty and the Beast. A live-action remake of the film is out this month.
Melissa Arnot Reid
"Procrastination is a trap to which we're all susceptible. Fear is often the silent driver of our actions—we fear failure and success equally. I'm driven once I choose to do something, but the decision to do it is where I really exercise procrastination. Sometimes when you're making a difficult climb, the longer you hesitate to move, the more fatigued you get. That's kind of a brilliant metaphor for life: The more you stand in procrastination, the less of an ability you have to leap to the next step. You do a lot of groundwork to prepare for a climb and then you have this choice, this moment when your actions will dictate your success or failure relative to getting to the summit or your safety. It's easy then to feel intense pressure knowing that these kinds of decisions are the turning point of all the work that you've done; the outcome is so unknown. But you have to move."
—Arnot Reid is a mountain climber and adventurer.
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Adrian Thomas – Chairman
Adrian has worked in both HR & Recruitment in some of the UK's top companies and has continually argued for Resourcing to be seen as a strategic priority for companies and not just a tactical 'post filling' activity. A passionate believer in using, where appropriate, in-house teams to go direct to the candidate, utilising Standardised Selection tools to ensure quality & equality of hire! Most recently, as Head of Resourcing at Network Rail, Adrian has been responsible for the strategic direction of resourcing together with the line management of the recruitment team. Previously Adrian was the Senior Technical Partner, Resourcing, at RBS and Director of Recruitment at GlaxoSmithKline with responsibility for the formation and management of the Global Manufacturing & Supply recruitment team.
A true HR professional, Adrian previously held senior positions as a HR Director, worked in compensation & benefits and employee relations before returning to Resourcing (previously he was a Director of a large recruitment consultancy). Adrian is a true evangelist for Resourcing and a belief in the value that it brings to organisations – when done properly!
Adrian is also a Vice President of the Association of Graduate Recruiters and a Freeman of the City of London. His other passions are his family (two daughters, Georgina at Surrey University reading Law and Sophia starting out in the world of professional tennis!), helping to run the local tennis club (Martin Dene LTC) and the odd game of golf (Member at La Manga Country Club, Spain).
Angela Cripps – NED
Angela Cripps is currently Chair of the Midlands region of The Recruitment Society helping to organise local events and presentations....
Miles Lloyd – NED
Miles Lloyd is currently in an advisory capacity as a director to the recruitment society. Miles took the helm as...
Susie Roe – NED
Susie Roe is currently in an advisory capacity as a director to the recruitment society. Joining Havas People in 2003,...
Simon Bracewell – NED
Simon Bracewell is currently Chair of the North West region of the recruitment society. Simon has over 20 years' experience...
Adrian has worked in both HR & Recruitment in some of the UK's top companies and has continually argued for...
Recent updates from the REC
Recruitment industry leaders write to Chancellor asking him to "pause and think again on IR35 changes" January 21, 2020
The REC and leaders from 14 of the UK's top recruitment firms have written to the Chancellor Sajid Javid expressing concerns about the planned changes to IR35 rules, and asking him to "pause and think again".
ONS labour market statistics: planned immigration restrictions threaten economic growth and public services January 21, 2020
Today's labour market statistics raise big questions over the government's plans to end 'low-skilled' migration to the UK, announced by Home Secretary Priti Patel yesterday.
Recruitment & Employment Confederation (REC) takes client security to the next level with Mailock January 17, 2020
UK cyber security firm, BeyondEncryption, has announced the roll out of its Mailock® secure emailsolution to REC members and for use at the REC's London Head Office
Recruitment activity picks up at the end of 2019 January 10, 2020
The latest Report on Jobs shows some signs of a clearer outlook for hiring, with permanent placements increasing for the first time in a year.
IR35 Review: changes to legislation off the table January 9, 2020
REC reaction as HMRC confirms that the IR35 review will be limited to how IR35 will be implemented, and will not consider changes to legislation.
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Taste: Choppy Seas
Estia quite literally puts fish on a pedestal. The cavernous Greek restaurant, which faces the Academy of Music from Locust Street, packs its finny finest in ice and displays it prominently on an altar positioned halfway between the open kitchen and the dining room. During dinner hours, the imposing still life from the sea is rearranged periodically as customers step up to inspect the catch and choose something to their liking.
This project was a top-to-bottom renovation of the former Toto, more than $1 million in the making. Native Greeks Pete Pashalis, Nick Pashalis and John Lois, who have done well with their three Pietro's Coal Oven Pizzeria restaurants in Philadelphia and Marlton, have overseen a tasteful installation of thick wooden ceiling beams, clean white walls, stone columns, woven wall hangings and antiquarian accessories. The result is a near-clone of Avra, a New York restaurant where Nick Pashalis is among the partners. Tables are generously spaced and double-draped with crisp white and blue linens, a look that's upscale without being overly formal.
Beyond a few token meat entrées — lamb chops, chicken thigh and breast, filet mignon — Estia (pronounced "es-TEE-uh") is all about seafood, most of it grilled, minimally adorned with lemon, olive oil, fresh herbs and capers. Specimens that Philadelphians don't often see, such as barbouni (red mullet), fagri (Mediterranean white snapper) and fresh sardines, join the more commonplace Florida pompano, Dover sole, tuna, halibut, swordfish, and delectable langoustines, the latter priced at a breathtaking $44.95 per pound. Whole fish are filleted in the kitchen for easier eating, though they retain head and tail to make a dramatic impression at the table.
Estia's practice of pricing whole fish by the pound isn't as fearsome as it appears. Most of the fish weigh one pound or less, which means the price listed on the menu is very close to what you'll pay. (If cost is an issue, ask your waiter how much your order will weigh before he puts it in.) I found the prices to be in line with the high quality of the product, and comparable to other big-scale Center City restaurants. But I do think Estia's menu needs to explain more clearly what distinguishes one fish from another — as it reads now, nearly every offering is described as lean, moist and mild.
American-born executive chef Gus Pashalis, 26, is the son of Pete and nephew of Nick. He repeats many of Avra's dishes here. Two of the best ones are the paper-thin, flash-fried zucchini and eggplant "chips" served with tzatziki (yogurt and cucumber dip), and a sampler of three appetizer spreads that includes tzatziki, smoky grilled eggplant, and zippy roasted red pepper with feta and a pinch of cayenne pepper, served with grilled pita bread.
Appetizers appear expensive, ranging from $9.95 for pan-fried kefalograviera cheese to $16.95 for charcoal-grilled octopus, but most are large enough for two people. The octopus, dressed with vinegar and capers, is surrounded by sweet onions and grilled Holland peppers. Tender tubes of calamari are filled to the brim with mashed Greek cheese and herbs; the squid and the filling are good, but cheese and seafood combinations never seem harmonious to me. The amount of feta on the otherwise good Greek salad is stingy, given its $11.95 price ($10.95 at lunch). The grilled sardines are large, yielding some bones even after filleting.
The most appealing main-course fish may be the lavraki, or loup de mer, with a hint of sweetness in its moist white flesh. Tsipoura, also known as royal dorado, is oilier, yet pleasant, reminding me of a just-caught bluefish. The orange-red barbouni are a striking visual, pan-fried and served whole. Their crisp skin is delicious, but the number of needle-like bones within makes it impossible to enjoy them. Swordfish grilled on skewers with peppers, onions and tomatoes is remarkably succulent. Side dishes, which must be ordered separately, include delicious potatoes pan-fried in olive oil, and "wild" greens that are actually a tame, tasty combination of boiled red and green chard, spinach and leeks, drizzled with olive oil. The greens should be served at room temperature; ours were ice-cold. Desserts are reliable versions of baklava, phyllo-wrapped custard, walnut cake, and yogurt with honey.
The front of the house is where Estia needs serious improvements. Servers need to be better-informed about the menu, and more closely attuned to the rhythms of each table. On one evening, I waited in the bar for 20 minutes after being told — erroneously — that my companions hadn't arrived, when in fact they were seated and waiting for me. An offer to show us the fish display came after our dinners were already in progress. No one problem constituted a crisis, but with 200 seats in the dining room and 90 more in the downstairs banquet rooms, service is likely to be as critical to the future of Estia as the sweetness of its lavraki.
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From the community:
Former presidential advisor at BenU to discuss future of U.S. economy
By Community Contributor pbrozynski
| About this post |
(Posted by pbrozynski, Community Contributor)
The Dow Jones industrial average is at an all-time high. Unemployment is down. Consumer confidence is up.
How did we get here? How do we stay here? What role will Washington, D.C., play?
The Center for Civic Leadership (CCL) at Benedictine University will host former presidential economic advisor Austan Goolsbee, Ph.D., who will lecture on "Economic and Political Realities: 2015 and Beyond" at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12 on the second floor of the Krasa Student Center.
Goolsbee is the Robert P. Gwinn professor of economics at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. He previously served in Washington as the Chairman of the Council of Economic Advisers and the youngest member of the President's cabinet.
Goolsbee's research has earned him recognition as a Fulbright Scholar and an Alfred P. Sloan Fellow. In prior years he was named one of the "100 Global Leaders for Tomorrow" by the World Economic Forum and one of the six "Gurus of the Future" by the Financial Times.
Comedy Central's "Daily Show" star Jon Stewart describes him as "Eliot Ness meets Milton Friedman," and in 2009 he was voted "Washington, D.C.'s Funniest Celebrity."
Established in 2005 under the direction of former Illinois Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial candidate Jim Ryan, the CCL seeks to shape a new generation of public leaders and responsible citizens. Each year, the CCL invites prominent public figures to speak about the importance of active citizenship and public service.
Chesterton midwife faces investigation for allegedly practicing without license
3 firefighters burned while battling blaze inside vacant Park Ridge gas station 'loaded' with hazardous material
Elgin garbage to be picked up earlier, outdoor movie canceled, Metra trains slower as result of heat wave
Romeoville man charged with DUI after crash in St. Charles
In recent years, the CCL has hosted President Barack Obama, U.S. Senator Mark Kirk, Washington Post columnists Bob Woodward and David Broder, CNN's Peter Bergen, Children's Defense Fund Director Marian Wright Edelman, University of Chicago legal scholar Cass Sustein and human rights advocate Paul Rusesabagina.
As a vehicle for civic education and engagement, the CCL has also placed many undergraduate students into public service and government internships, where they gain valuable firsthand experience working closely with some of Illinois' finest public servants and elected officials.
Through the CCL, Benedictine students have interned in the state's attorney's offices, with members of the General Assembly in Springfield, and with the Citizens Advocacy Center in Elmhurst. Other students have been placed as volunteers with political campaigns.
The event is free and open to the public. Seating is limited. For more information, visit ben.edu/ccl, email ccl@ben.edu or contact Jean Zingg at jzingg@ben.edu.


Arkansas can't find enough volunteers to witness back-to-back executions
BY: Loop Global
12:20, April 1, 2017
The state code requires that no fewer than six "respectable citizens" be present at each execution.
There's one problem: It's having a hard time finding enough volunteers to witness them.
The volunteer pool is apparently thin enough that state Department of Corrections Director Wendy Kelley invited members of a local Rotary Club to volunteer.
Arkansa
Department of Corrections
Read more about Arkansas can't find enough volunteers to witness back-to-back executions
North Korea executed 5 security officials, South Korea says
07:30, March 1, 2017
The deputy minister-level officials had worked under the recently fired state security chief Kim Won Hong, and are believed to have been executed for making false reports to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, according to two parliamentarians who had been briefed by South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS).
"Kim Won Hong, the state security chief, is in a house arrest situation after an investigation and more than five deputy minister-level officials who worked under him have been executed by anti-aircraft guns," South Korean lawmaker Kim Byung-kee said.
Read more about North Korea executed 5 security officials, South Korea says


4906 El Camino Real, Suite A
Los Altos, CA 94022
Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctor in Los Altos, CA
New Medical Office now open in Los Altos
Edward C. Lee, M.D., Inc. is pleased to welcome you to our practice. We want all our patients to be informed decision makers and fully understand any health issues you face. That's why we've developed a website loaded with valuable information about ear, nose and throat problems and treatments. We encourage you to visit this site whenever you have concern related to ear, nose and throat health.
Our website also provides you with background about our ear, nose and throat specialist (known as an otolaryngologist), staff, office hours, insurance policies, appointment procedures, maps, directions to our office and other useful information. We know how hectic life can be and are committed to making our practice convenient and accessible. And we want you to feel confident that when you choose Edward C. Lee, M.D., Inc., you're working with professionals who are qualified, experienced and caring.
Please take a few moments to look through this website to get a better feel for Edward C. Lee, M.D., Inc. capabilities and services. We also invite you to email or call our office at any time to request an appointment or ask any questions.
On behalf of all the Edward C. Lee M.D., Inc. physician and staff we welcome you to our practice and look forward to helping you and your family preserve a lifetime of good health.
Otolaryngology - Los Altos, Edward C. Lee M.D. 4906 El Camino Real, Suite A Los Altos, CA 94022 (650) 967-1770


Habib pleased to record opening day win
ICC Media Release
Hong Kong coach Aftab Habib praised his players after it defeated Argentina by seven wickets at the Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division 3.
After dismissing Argentina for 107, it reached its target with 22.4 overs to spare.
'I was really pleased as the first match is always an important match in any tournament,' said Habib.
'Argentina is a pretty good outfit and we had to play well on the day to beat them.
'The host game is always a difficult game first up and they had the advantage of playing at home,' said Habib.
Hong Kong's next match is against Afghanistan on Sunday, who it lost to twice at the Pepsi ICC World Cricket League Division 4 last year.
'We lost twice to them in Tanzania due to some errors and mistakes and we need to make sure that we don't do the same things again tomorrow,' said Habib.
'Afghanistan is a good team, we know we are a good team, and it is all down to who performs the best on the day.'


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Parivartan Programme (Umoja module) and its Impact
Promila, a normally shy person, lives in Amar Colony, on the edges of Delhi. Married with 5 children, and one earning member, the family lived less than hand to mouth.
A neighbour told her about Deeper Life Church which partners with EFICOR and Promila was invited last year to participate in Parivartan program where the community and the church work together for their development. With a smile on her face, Promila states that Parivartan Umoja module trainings have changed her way of thinking. She learnt embroidery and uses her skills to earn and bring in money into their home.
Promila interacts with thread sellers, her neighbours and others encouraging them to participate in the project. Promila leveraged the support and training she got from the project to change her family's life altogether. They have been able to buy a small house, rear pigs, and expand her embroidery skills, completing her diploma in embroidery. In a short span of a year, Promila had moved from house wife to a woman who people look up to.
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What was impossible became possible because of LRC ", Says Anjali
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Tara Bai dropped out of school, got married and is...
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Ewan Strydom bids farewell to his 'Expresso' family
Local / 6 May 2019, 7:08pm / Alyssia Birjalal
Teary eyed Ewan Strydom bids Expresso farewell.
For some, SABC 3's morning show, "Expresso" may never be the same without veteran, Ewan Strydom who said his goodbye's last week.
The present, who has been apart of the show since its inception in 2010 plans on pursuing other business ventures.
After spending more than eight years on Expresso, the presenter said: "I have decided to venture into different avenues of TV, and explore new challenges as part of my presenting career".
In the emotional last episode, a teary eyed Strydom left viewers and his co-presenters heartbroken with his final goodbyes.
"It's incredibly difficult to say goodbye. I will miss you all dearly. You are my family. You've become my world. I don't know how to do this. I'm not a crier. But it's been a journey that I will never forget," he said as the credits rolled.
In a statement issued by SABC3 Strydom said: "To my Expresso family - colleagues and loyal viewers - thank you very much for an incredible 8 and a half years of allowing me into your homes every single morning, to bring you those Feel Good vibes. It has been an unforgettable journey that fills out a wonderful chapter in the journey of my life. It has shaped who I am as a person, a presenter, and a personality in the South African media landscape. I have decided to venture into different avenues of TV, and explore new challenges as part of my presenting career. I am grateful for the incredible opportunity that I have had with Expresso to hone my skills to become one of the best live TV presenters helping Feel Good Mornings happen all over Mzansi. It is so far one of the most thrilling experiences of my lifetime, and a number of years I will treasure as I continue my journey. Thank you for the support from our loyal viewers, and I know that the show will continuously excel in the hands of the professional and talented team".
Production house, Cardova wished Strydom well.
"Cardova Productions and the Expresso Morning Show recognised the hard work Ewan has invested in helping grow the show to where it is today, and appreciate the positive feel good attitude that Ewan has always displayed, on and off camera" said the statement.


The Next Marijuana Millionaire TV series is coming soon
Published Aug 29, 2020 09:00 a.m. ET
Updated 5 months ago 2 min read
iStock / Petr Vdovkin
The Big Mike new TV series "The Next Marijuana Millionaire" is a combination of the reality show Survivor, The Apprentice, and Shark Tank, minus the weed involvement or so they'd like us to believe. The show puffs out its chest and proclaims itself as being the first-ever cannabis business, competition tv series. Here, sixteen ganjapreneurs compete to win the grand prize worth one million and the opportunity to partner with Mike Straumietis, aka Big Mike, the cannabis icon, and owner of Advanced Nutrients. Is this new TV series coming to a streaming service that you have?
The new TV series, the "Next Marijuana Millionaire," was the first show of its kind because it reveals the true face of cannabis industry players. August 15, 2020, was the maiden voyage of The Next Marijuana Millionaire, however, when searching streaming services, the show is nowhere to be seen. Advanced Nutrients owner Big Mike hyped the show as being similar to Shark Tank only with a primary directive to focus on weed. Amazon Prime, Pluto TV, and Apple TV were the streaming services involved in the weed directed reality show.
Re-scheduling
Pot news headlines let us know that Big Mike has postponed the reality show in the contestants' best interest and the cannabis community at large. Big Mike is confident that he has made the correct decision to delay the show's airing and promises that the new premiere date is on the near horizon.
Sharks in the water
The Sisters of the Valley were one of the sixteen contestants on the perhaps ill-fated new TV series, and they have severe doubts around whether the show was ever really scheduled to be aired. The Sisters of the Valley believe the cancellation or postponement happened due to Big Mike. The Sisters of the Valley think that Big Mike, who made himself look like a Big Shot, probably had a bearing on Amazon Prime pulling the show.
The handlers for the new TV series give the likely explanation that bigger prizes and opportunities are going to be coming soon. Bigger networks seem to be in the eye of Big Mike and his handlers. As far as the Sisters of the Valley, they feel that this story is like the same stories told for the last two years. The sisters believe that things might have gone sideways for Big Mike and the new tv series. Maybe Devine intervention, as the nuns believe the show may have been cursed.
Big Mike, AKA Mike Straumietis, was also known by the self-described title Marijuana Don is confident in his decision to put the new TV series on hold again until the right time comes along. The correct timing will have a wider reach and, hopefully, a tremendous impact on the cannabis community as a whole. Though the Sisters of the Valley have suggested that the show had some shady dealings among other scathing comments, to date, none of these comments have been proven.
The best new TV shows to binge-watch with weed this summer (2020)
You'll definitely want to check out these five popular TV shows that no one should miss out on this summer....


Home » Primate responds to dissenting bishops
Primate responds to dissenting bishops
Archbishop Fred Hiltz defends the process that brought the same-sex marriage decision to General Synod 2016, in a letter addressed to dissenting bishops. Photo: André Forget
By André Forget on October 3, 2016
In a written response to a statement issued by seven Canadian bishops expressing their dissent from General Synod's decision to move toward solemnizing same-sex marriages, Archbishop Fred Hiltz, primate of the Anglican Church of Canada, pushed back against several of the points they had raised.
While he affirmed the bishops' commitment to offer "pastoral care and loving service to all irrespective of sexual orientation," he noted that for many LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) Anglicans, "pastoral care" would include the solemnization of their marriages-which the bishops have expressly said they will not do. "For me, my brothers, the question you ask is really a question for all members of the church. To what extent can we and will we make room for one another? To what extent will we pastorally accommodate one another?" Hiltz said in his letter.
Hiltz's response is dated August 5, but it became public following its distribution to the House of Bishops in advance of its September 22-27 meeting in Winnipeg. The Anglican Journal obtained a copy of the letter after a request was made to the primate's office.
Hiltz also challenged their claim that the resolution, which contains a conscience clause, "does not provide adequate protection for the consciences of dioceses, clergy and congregations." He asked the bishops to explain what such protection would look like, and how it would apply for those in their dioceses who are in favour of same-sex marriage.
He defended the process leading up to the same-sex marriage vote July 11, which narrowly passed the first of two readings (the second will take place in 2019) and took issue with the bishops' claim that the "entire process" leading up to the vote was "flawed," and had "inflicted terrible hurt and damage on all involved."
He argued that Council of General Synod (CoGS), which had been given responsibility for crafting the resolution allowing for the marriage of same-sex couples in the church after a resolution passed at General Synod 2013, had taken "considerable care" and done its work "thoroughly."
Hiltz added that, in his opinion, the discussion of the resolution at General Synod 2016 had been well-organized, with provisions made for those who wished to abstain from the vote altogether.
Hiltz also noted that though the vote itself, which was originally declared to have failed before being reversed the next day due to the discovery of an error, was "difficult," it had allowed many synod members to "experience the pain of another whose view on this matter is very different" in a "very powerful way."
The primate assured the bishops that the question of what the church should do pastorally, prophetically and structurally following the vote is one he is taking very seriously. He said he intends to publish the notes from small-group discussions on this subject that took place following the vote, and these would serve as the basis for further discussions at CoGS and House of Bishops.
But there were also points on which Hiltz concurred with the bishops.
He affirmed their condemnation of "homophobic prejudice and violence," and sympathized with their frustration over the use of a legislative process to make decisions about theological and pastoral issues. But while he stated his desire for "less confrontational, and less hurtful" ways of decision-making, he placed the onus on the bishops to delineate what that might look like.
He shared their concern over the decision made by some bishops to proceed with same-sex marriages ahead of 2019, but said he has "no canonical authority to prohibit bishops from taking such action." Hiltz said he would nonetheless "encourage a conversation in the House of Bishops about patience with the due process of General Synod…"
Hiltz also told the bishops he has spoken with the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, about General Synod's decision and the concerns they have raised, and assured Welby that he would address the issue "as comprehensively as I can.
The dissenting bishops' statement was released July 15, just days after General Synod came to an end. It was signed by Bishop Stephen Andrews, of the diocese of Algoma; Bishop David Parsons, of the diocese of the Arctic, Suffragan Bishop Darren McCartney, also of the diocese of the Arctic; Bishop William Anderson, of the diocese of Caledonia; Bishop Larry Robertson, of the diocese of Yukon; Bishop Fraser Lawton, of the diocese of Athabasca; and Bishop Michael Hawkins of the diocese of Saskatchewan.
Bishop David Edwards, of the diocese of Fredericton, was not an original signatory, but he added his name to the statement later.
Efforts were made to contact several of the bishops who had signed, but at press time, none were willing to comment. Hawkins did, however, note that the signatories would issue a formal response in the coming year. In an interview, Hiltz said he was willing to meet with the bishops about their concerns.
André Forget
André Forget was a staff writer for the Anglican Journal from 2014 to 2017.
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The Anglican Journal is the national newspaper of the Anglican Church of Canada. Its print edition is published 10 times a year and carries 19 regional newspapers that provide important local information for Anglican dioceses.
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NB's fake football fans to gather for Super Bowl 'traditon'
Entertainment, NB, News, Sports
Chipman — Across the province this weekend, die-hard Super Bowl fans are preparing to overeat and drink in celebration of a longstanding tradition they've adopted for some reason.
American football — not to be confused with British football, or soccer — is a sport near and dear to New Brunswickers' hearts once a year, presumably because it allows those lacking creativity or their own interests to host a themed party on what would otherwise be another boring Sunday.
"It's tradition," stated Nora Culberson, 26, of Chipman. "Brad has the boys over, I have the girls over, and we eat a pizza, taquitos, super-spicy buffalo wings from M&M Meat Shops, cupcakes, and then wash it all down with Alpine. It's a chance for us to get together and look at the TV while stuffing our faces."
"Plus it's been what, a month since Christmas? It's long overdue," she added.
Culberson's husband Brad, 29, says he started the tradition in their home because he noticed others around the province doing it, and so he knew it must have been based on something real or significant.
"And pretty much everything I know about life I learned from American TV," he explained. "My boys are the same way — we've all been friends since our Chipman Regional High days, and last year I figured we might as well get together for some brews in the man cave." He then explained that "man cave" is something TV told him he needs — a place to relax as a married man, away from his wife and her problems. "But I'm gonna let her have her girls over this time — throw her a bone since she keeps yappin' about tradition."
"Hey, you're welcome to come by on Sunday," he mentioned to The Manatee's reporter. "Just wear a hockey jersey or something — that's what we do since no one has football jerseys around here. Bring some sauce for the wings if you don't mind."
Nora said she attempted to read up on the rules of football late last night, but promptly ditched that effort the moment a particularly engrossing episode of TLC's Say Yes to the Dress was on. "I loved Friday Night Lights, so I can probably just figure out the real thing based on that," she said. "And some of Brad's friends seem to know what it's all about, so I'll just watch their faces and reactions so I know when to cheer or clap or whatever."
The Culbersons say that despite having no actual interest in football, their longstanding 2-year tradition will be upheld for generations to come. "Just as long as they keep making those spicy wings," Brad said.
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Eastern Daily Press
Lifting the lid on lavish loos
Rowan Mantell
Published: 2:44 PM February 23, 2017 Updated: 1:49 PM October 9, 2020
Remarkable Toilets. Kerry Allnutt and Mark Guest pictured with some of their toilets. Picture: ANTONY KELLY - Credit: Archant
An unusual collection inspired a far from bog-standard family business, writes Rowan Mantell
Mark Guest grew up in a council house with just an outside toilet. Today he and his partner, Kelly Allnutt (childhood bathroom inside, but avocado-coloured) live in a home with seven loos, and run a business creating and selling quirky and beautiful toilets around the world.
They design and commission toilets decorated with delicate flowers, loos and cisterns in matching metallics, and lavatories lavishly painted with bold Mexican pictures.
The unusual family business began with Mark's toilet collection.
'I began collecting old toilets about 15 years ago,' said Mark. 'I was interested in ornate and decorative things and saw these beautiful old toilets.'
He was working as a management consultant but his real passion was in restoring old houses and as he visited auctions to source items, he developed a new appreciation of the humble toilet.
Today his collection sits alongside examples of the brand new loos they have inspired.
There are Victorian porcelain pans, festooned with foliage and flowers, and given names such as 'deluge.' There are art-deco designs, and modernist models from the 1930s. There are also antique sinks and basins, ornate brass flush pulls and toilet roll holders, serpent-shaped taps. And the collection has inspired a new range of replica bathroom furnishings, and a new business for Mark and Kelly, called The Remarkable Toilet Company.
Their 21st century replicas of some of the loveliest lavs, are joined by a collection of new toilets made in Mexico and painted with pictures of vibrant lilies climbing up the pedestals, pans, seats and cisterns, or desert scenes including cacti and birds beneath a baking sun. More replica loos, lurk in cabinets, chairs and chests. A toilet is concealed beneath a Gothic-style wooden throne, and within a military-style mahogany 'thunderbox,' part of a made-to-measure range created by expert woodworkers.
For the past two years Mark and Kelly, who have children aged five and almost two, have been perfecting the reproduction of their toilets so that they will fit modern plumbing and withstand 21st century cleaning fluids and methods. They had to find kilns big enough to fire entire toilet pans, dyes and glazes which retained their colour at high temperatures, and manufacturing methods which would not shatter the toilets. 'There's a lot of science in it,' said Mark. And Kelly, who used to run her own public relations business, said: 'It's like being on The Apprentice every day!' Five-year-old Oskar is also helping spread the word about the new business, telling classmates that his dad is a toilet cleaner.
The toilets of the Remarkable Toilet Company are also becoming talking points in homes and businesses across the country, and as far afield as continental Europe, Iceland and New Zealand. 'It's affordable luxury,' said Mark. 'People send us pictures of their toilets after they've been installed!
A restaurant in Southend has installed seven of their golden toilets and the most popular designs so far are the Victorian Floral (Mark's favourite) and the Metropolis (Kelly's favourite.)
Kelly said that it was Queen Victoria who popularised the idea of having a toilet in a private room, and thousands followed her lead to the loo. 'She wanted everything to be as nice as possible and she didn't want people knowing about each other's ablutions.'
Toilets were installed in homes not just around the country, but across the globe. 'When I started collecting you used to be able to find Victorian toilets and cisterns in skips,' said Mark. Today antique toilets are more likely to be fetching good prices in auctions.
Prices for their own replica toilets, from bog standard to lavatory lavish, range from £250 to £2,800.
At home in Wood Dalling Hall, near Reepham, Mark and Kelly have an impressive seven toilets, but they are all more normal than ornate, because the couple rent the house, after falling in love with the history and architecture of the house, which dates back to 1582. In the 20th century it was used as a Muslim retreat and then a pub and restaurant before being converted back into a private home.
'Norfolk is a beautiful, unspoilt part of the world,' said Mark. 'We had been up here to auctions in Aylsham and Diss.'
Mark and Kelly still love auctions, and regularly loan out some of finds for television and film sets.
Now their showroom is open by appointment and they are nurturing a family and a business in Norfolk.
The Remarkable Toilet Company is based at Wood Dalling Hall, near Reepham, and online at www.beautifultoilets.com
SOME MORE REMARKABLE LOOS AROUND EAST ANGLIA
Norwich Castle has four-berth Norman toilets tucked within its thick outer walls, helpfully sited in companiable groups so that doing one's business did not need to interrupt any other business, and waste matter was conveniently expelled to ditches below.
Holkham Hall. Communal toilets were still the height of sophistication when Holkham Hall was built centuries later. It had double toilets installed just off the main dining hall.
The Wee House, Sheringham, is a beautiful sea-front bed and breakfast, convenient for the beach and town, converted from the town's former public conveniences.
A disused 98-year-old urinal in Norwich is a listed building. On St Crispins Road on the busy inner ring road stands the oldest prefabricated concrete urinal in the UK.
Orford Castle in Suffolk has an even older urinal –dating back it Norman times. It is built into the thick castle wall of a private room used by the constable of the castle.
Audley End House in Essex was one of the first country houses in England to have flushing toilets. The first was installed in 1775 with another four arriving a decade later and costing the equivalent of the annual wages of two servants.
At Weybourne Station, near Sheringham, the reconstructed and restored Edwardian toilets won an award from the National Railway Association.
At Major's Corner in Ipswich a 21st century toilet block features a cartoon sculpture of a Sergeant Major swatting flies.