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Developing Essay Writing Skills

One may not find a perfect solution for a quest known as “how to write an essay.” Eventually, one may find that tips from sources cannot suit the writer’s style, and each piece of advice will be applied individually. Yet, there can be a few universal moments in essay writing.    

The Head

What should be called the beginning of an essay? An introduction? No. In essay writing, the best way to start effectively is by outlining. It is brainstorming of thoughts, and a chance to see the future content. Professors can ask students to include outline alongside essays, and they can have specific requirements. Besides them, you can make your own outline. It can be a mere sketch, which includes a skeleton of short sentences. It can be a full-fledged draft, which consists of recording what first came to mind. Advice? Try to do all possible options to find the one suiting your likings. 

The Neck

Every essay needs a structure. Typically, it is the “introduction – three-body-paragraphs-conclusion” type; however, the number of body paragraphs can vary depending on the word count. 

One very important thing about the introduction is never to forget about the thesis statement, and always remember that the thesis statement shouldn’t begin with “This essay will be about…” The thesis statement is not a summary, but a preview to your essay. It should be interesting and should consist of all ideas or arguments that you will write further. essayservice.com has many examples of thesis statements that are the backbone of the future essay. 

As an example, imagine that you are writing an argumentative essay about why Ebooks are a better choice nowadays. Your thesis statement can be:

  1. This essay will prove why Ebooks are a better choice nowadays. (x)
  2. Ebooks are a better choice nowadays. (x) 
  3. Ebooks are a better choice nowadays because they are environment-friendly, cheap in the long run, and convenient in their placement. (v) 

You can see that the last example does include a mere statement from the second example, but it also explains your position. Also, such a thesis statement gives an understanding of the arguments included throughout the essay.  

Apart from the introduction, another important thing is about the conclusion: conclusions rarely contain new information which was not mentioned in an essay. If you are planning to continue writing on the topic (more research paper-related), you can make your conclusion as a door to it. Otherwise, do not introduce anything new at the end. These are an introduction’s duties. 

The Body

Ironically, this part contains some tips about body paragraphs. It’s time to remember:

  1. one body paragraph should discuss one idea;
  2. each body paragraph should have a topic sentence. It resonates with the thesis statement: thesis statement helps in organizing a whole essay, while a topic sentence organizes a body paragraph;
  3. normally, a body paragraph does not begin and end with information or facts that should be cited. Yet, the deviation is possible depending on instructions provided by a professor;
  4. make sure your paragraphs aren’t too large. You can set volume limits for each paragraph while writing an outline;
  5. make sure that your paragraphs aren’t smaller than introduction or conclusion and are harmonious in volume between each other. It’s a visual thing, but it can complicate the reading part similarly to tautologies, grammatical errors, and poor word choices. 

Sometimes, the visual part decides so much that your unique and valuable insights do not matter because of large paragraphs or inconsistency of paragraph volumes. 

The Limps

When an essay is finished, and it seems that it’s a high time to submit it, please, forget about submitting right after the writing part is finished. If you have some hours to spare (you should have because writing an essay close to the deadline isn’t a good idea), spare them. Rest for an hour or so, and then return to your essay again to reread it.

The point is that your eyes get used to the text during essay writing, and your vision becomes blurred. You might not see half of all possible errors (careless mistakes, missing commas, missing articles/words, etc.) if you start the proofreading parts right after you have finished your assignment. Also, you may decide to change a sentence or re-arrange a whole paragraph to improve the content.   

The Tail

At the end of improving your essay writing skills, it is worth remembering that without reading, there will be no success story. The more you read, the more you see and make your personal “how to write an essay” advice stock. The Internet can give you a lot of free samples, essays posted to serve as an example for beginners and those eager to improve, articles, and books to enhance your vocabulary and personal style.

At the end of everything, the last tip may sound burdensome, but it’s worth mentioning anyway. Do not write only when your assignments ask you to write. Try to practice your skills outside the studies. On the Internet again, you can find a lot of prompts for academic essays or creative writing. Find them and write when you have time because it will help a lot in polishing your unique style and improving your skills overall. 

Patrick Ames “Reawakened” Single Release

I reviewed Patrick Ames EP release last year, “Liveness,” which was a lovely collection of intimate, vivid and beautifully raw songs, all colliding nicely together.

“Reawakened” is something along those lines too, although it has a more urgent feel, I think.  Written as a call to poetic arms. A cry for us to gather together and reject the hate that circulates so easily these days.

But it’s not a peace song exactly. With its gospel beat and punchy delivery, “Reawakening” is an anthem, a rousing rhythmic belter of a song.  The layers of harmony not timid, but rather powerful. The repeating driving guitar, the inspiring breakdown, the signature live feel, all coming together to shake us awake and demand our attention.

Patrick Ames turned to Jon Ireson to remix and reenergize the original version of this track and the result is a catchy, bluesy, soulful rock song with a hopeful message, “the good in us all is about to be released.”  It’s a charming mixture of The Rolling Stones and and Nick Cave.  A rejection of the status quo and a call to vote! Not a bad reason to make music!! More, please!

Websites:

Website

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

Soundcloud

Youtube Channel

Spotify

Reawakened 2020, by Patrick Ames

Remixed and Remastered by Jon Ireson, Producer

Patrick Ames: guitars, guitar midi, vocals

Jon Ireson: bass, synths, programming

Chana and Mikaela Mattews: vocals

“SHELTER AT ‘OM: Comedic Meditation”

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Award-winning comedian, actress, television, radio host and bestselling author Carla Collins is on a mission to help everyone laugh and relax at a time when we so desperately need it.
On Wednesday, June 24 at 6pm PST/9pm EST, Carla will host the world premiere of “SHELTER AT ‘OM: Comedic Meditation.”  The event is a unique experience – 30 minutes of hilarious stand-up comedy to fire up your endorphins followed by a relaxing, authentic guided meditation (no yoga involved!).

Even though the marriage seems unconventional, research shows that people who engage in joyful laughter produce brainwave frequencies similar to that which are seen as they practice meditation. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Carla has been conducting private Comedic Meditation sessions all over Canada, as well as America, Denmark, Argentina and New Zealand. Her premiere event will be live-streamed around the world from Los Angeles’ popular Whitefire Theatre and 50% of the proceeds will go towards supporting the 40-year-old venue, which has suffered heavily during the pandemic.

WHEN: Wednesday, June 24 at 6pm PST/9pm EST

WHERE: online at whitefire.com – instructions with purchase

TICKETS: Tickets are $9.99. https://www.whitefiretheatre.com/


Carla Collins is on a mission to help everyone laugh with “SHELTER AT ‘OM: Comedic Meditation” at Whitefire Theatre via via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

When did you first become interested in performing stand-up?

I’ve been fascinated by comedy since I was a kid and often competed in public speaking contests with a speech on humor. I loved all types of comedy from the 3 Stooges to Carol Burnett to Oscar Wilde. I first started doing stand-up immediately after graduating university but lacked the thick skin to stick it out. I quit after a few months and preferred the safety of working in TV and radio. About 8 years ago, I returned to my first love of doing standup because I’m older now and no longer give a damn what other people think!

Audience members love comedy shows. How do you develop one?

Writing every day and getting up on stage as much as possible. Right now during the plague that’s impossible so I’ve doubled down on the writing and have done Facebook Live and Zoom shows every week. As Malcolm Gladwell says you need to put in your 10,000 hours in order to achieve mastery. I think the trickiest part for most comedians is finding their own unique voice and creating material that is original yet universal.

Did you have any mentors or people who encouraged you along the way, to pursue a career as a comedian and actress?

My family always encouraged my career and passions. My Mom was my biggest champion, she came to every show and even started to open for me! She was my best friend and kindred spirit but passed away unexpectedly a few years ago. I consider every show an homage to her. My little brother is much funnier than me but he’s a school teacher so I just steal all his best material 🙂

How did you come up with the idea of comedic meditation?

I think I’ve always tried to marry comedy and spirituality as both fascinate me. I had been writing my own guided meditations for my fitness clients for a while because I didn’t like the ones online. I wanted to create something that would take away the preciousness and intimidation out of meditation. Laughing first and getting out of your own head seems to help. Both laughter and meditation produce a gamma brainwave so it’s not as weird a marriage as you might think.

Is there a difference between a comedy set and a solo show? If so, what might that be?

Although more and more the lines are blurred between standup comedy and theatre, there is a distinct difference in the laughs-per-minute count which is higher in standup comedy (or certainly should be!) Solo shows can be comedic but also very serious in nature and are closer to a scripted monologue or play with a distinct narrative. Standup tends to have more set-ups and punchlines and improv. We tell stories too and may discuss important themes but ultimately our main objective is to make you giggle.

Without giving anything away, what might an audience member expect to experience when viewing “SHELTER AT ‘OM?”

Hopefully a lot of laughs in the first 30 to 45 minutes on current topics ranging from Covid-19, climate change and Karens to random silliness like Chihuahua cosplay, “channeling” an infinite energy source called Fernando and tales about my older gentleman lover. After you’ve released endorphins laughing, my phone sex operator adjacent voice will take you through a delicious, authentic, original guided meditation so you can sit or lie back, close your eyes and relax in the privacy and comfort of your own home. The soothing meditation music is by local artist Aman Itomi.

Your show will be live streamed without a live audience. How do you know when to hold for laughs?

I’m a fast talker, so I’m not sure I held for laughs during shows in front of a live audience! It’s different and weird but I’ve been doing online shows now for months so I’m getting used to the new rhythm. It helps that I have a background hosting radio and television without the feedback of a crowd. It also helps that I drink on stage!

You are generously giving a portion of “SHELTER AT ‘OM” proceeds to help the Whitefire Theatre with their expenses during the pandemic. Is there anything else you’d like us to know about the show or about you?

We kept the ticket price extremely low $9.99 so everyone can experience this new combo platter. I’ll be wearing a spectacular over-the-top outfit by local designer Jorge del Busto which alone is worth the price of admission! Also, this may be the one show that translates best via streaming during our new normal. Many times when I did a live comedic meditation night people were so blissed out by the end they wished they could just roll over and go to sleep. Well, on Wednesday after the show, you can! For more information or tickets go to http://www.comedicmeditation.com.

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

Sundogs “The Code” Album Release

This is not my first Sundogs album!! Last year Sundogs released “Legends in Their Own Minds,” wicth was pretty wonderful, especially if you enjoy excellent arrangements, beautiful musicianship and songs full of life lessons and sardonic hilarity.  “The Code” is more of the same, not that it’s repetitive at all.  Just great songs, brilliantly produced and played. Inventive lyrics, strong, sarcastic vocals and the kind of self-effacing humor and inquisitive subject matter that I thoroughly enjoy, musically or otherwise.

The band has been evolving over their three albums, Stan Snow and Jed Moffitt, the core of the group, have discovered the secret to life the universe and indeed everything – do what you love, exactly the way you want to and bloody well enjoy it.  That obvious enjoyment translates perfectly into this warm, inclusive and truly wonderful album.

If you like Leonard Cohen, Tom Petty or Pink Floyd then Sundogs is right up your alley. There’s soul to their music and they keep their promises musically with songs that melodically rock and roll.  They brought in some truly legendary musicians on this album. Alan White (YES, John Lennon) plays drums on a song and Ben Smith (Heart) plays drums on a couple as well….not too shabby!

These guys love what they do, they spin their tales with tenderness and eloquence and no regrets. “Jennifer” is my favorite, but it was hard to pick just one if I’m honest.  I’d love to see them live, if we are ever allowed to see people in the actual flesh again.  But here’s hoping!!

Watch the music video for “I Want It Now”

Sundogs Online:

https://sundogsmusic.com/

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/SundogsMusicBand

Youtube – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9ZWHcvZL94l2YvlhCBwDcg

Musicians/Credits:

Stan Snow: vocals, guitars, bass, piano (9,11), producer, songwriter 1, 3-7,9-12

Jed Moffitt: vocals, keyboards, co-producer, songwriter 2,4,6,8,11,12

Mike Stone: drums 1-3,5,7,9,11,12

Ben Smith: drums 4,6,8

Alan White: drums 10

Jazmin Candia: backing vocals 2-9, 11

Eric Patterson: horn arrangements 2,12; tenor sax 2

Javier Gonzalez: trumpets 2,12

Don Gunn: engineering, mixing, mastering

6 Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Student Lifestyle

Life as a student is tough. Students have to handle everything from tight budgets to pending assignments. As a student, you can ultimately burn yourself out at the expense of your health –  mental and physical.

Luckily, we’ve compiled a list of health tips for students so that you don’t end up compromising on your health.  Keep on reading to find out how you can maintain a healthy student lifestyle.

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Image source: Pexels.com

1.  Make A Routine

Ask any college student, and they’ll confirm this – a good routine can improve your days immensely. In the age of social media, we tend to procrastinate a lot; we spend hours scrolling through Instagram or mindlessly watching YouTube videos. A routine can help you get out of this rut. It will give you some direction, get you going first thing in the morning.

Make a suitable routine for yourself, something that has you making the most of your day. A good tip is to make a to-do list every day of the week. This reduces the chances of you slacking off, as it gives you direction and something to do.  Remember: it’s okay if you don’t follow your routine to the T, giving yourself some wiggle room is better in the long run.

2.  Eat Healthily

When you’re under a lot of stress, it’s easy to fall into the take-out trap where you’re eating fast food all the time, but all of that sugar and grease is no good for you. A healthy balanced diet can do wonders for your health and lifestyle. An important tip is to not skip breakfast, even on days when there just isn’t time to sit down and have a meal – just grab some juice and a few fruits.

If you feel like you’ve gained some weight due to mindless munching, it’s crucial to go easy on yourself. Don’t beat yourself up. Instead, try some healthier snacking alternatives. If you do go on a diet, do it sensibly. Don’t try to starve yourself, but try clean eating instead.

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Image source: Pexels.com

3.  Don’t Overburden Yourself

You must manage your commitments. You may find yourself super-motivated in school or college and committing to more than you can handle. Don’t try to squeeze in extracurricular activities that take up too much of your time because it will become tough to try to juggle all of your commitments. It can also be detrimental to your mental well-being.

According to a survey by headspace, 70% of students in Australia have poor mental health. This is reflected in the global student body, as well. In times like these, getting outside help is not the worst thing in the world. If you want to buy essay online, you can find the cheap paper online. This is an affordable way for a college student stuck in a tough situation.

4.  Give Yourself A Break

It’s essential to not burn yourself out, as it’ll exhaust you in the long run. As a student, it’s easy to get into lost in work and not find time for yourself. You’ll seem to be fine, until one day you’re so exhausted that you can’t even get out of bed, which is why you should always give yourself a day off every once a while.

Use this day to take care of yourself. Order in some good food or just spend the day in bed without any guilt. It may seem counterintuitive, but it will have a positive effect in the long run because it’s going to relieve yourself from some of that stress you’ve been carrying.

5.  Don’t Just Stay In Your Room

Humans, by nature, are social animals, which means that your social interactions heavily influence your mental state. Our modern lifestyle means we don’t have the time for social interactions on the daily, which can harm your health.

Getting out there or having a physical meeting with somebody can be refreshing, and you should always devote some time to that if you can’t go and meet people, video call your friends or family to catch up.

6.  Stay Fit

Exercise regularly! We cannot stress this enough. Staying in good shape can mean the difference between being sluggish all day or being proactive. If you don’t like going to the gym, you can always join an online workout class or do some bodyweight exercises to keep yourself fit at home.

Conclusion

We hope this list of healthy living tips helps you in coping with the stress college brings. It’s easier said than done, but once you stick to it, it’ll definitely help you in the long run.

Vintage, Handmade, Custom, Unique: How to Pick Non-Traditional, Independent Jewelry

For those of us with an artistic flair, where we shop and what we buy isn’t always straightforward. After all, what we choose to adorn ourselves in is just as much about style and personality expression as it is about utility and function. This is especially true when it comes to accessories, from handbags and glasses to hats and jewelry.

But shopping for these sorts of things – especially if you’re looking for something a bit less mainstream and a bit more independent and unique – can be especially challenging, particularly if you’re looking to buy real precious metals and gemstones from an independent craftsman, artist, or shop owner. If you’re not buying from a mainstream retailer, how can you be sure what you’re purchasing is authentic? Or of the expected quality?

Fear not. Here are some quick tips to ensure you’re getting what you pay for when you choose to go vintage, custom, handmade, or independent.

Get measurements

You should begin by making sure you’re buying a piece in the right size, whether it’s for you, a significant other, a friend, or a family member. Short of going in person and trying everything on (who has the time for that these days, anyway?), you’ll need to figure out another way to ensure you’re buying something that fits.

Welcome to the world wide web. There are plenty of sizing tools, charts, and diagrams to help guide you, particularly if you’re shopping for a ring. A quick Google search will pull up about a dozen different ways for you to easily size the perfect necklace, ring, earrings, or bracelet. Just be sure to follow the instructions closely.

Get educated

Not all of us are certified gemmologists. Yes, that includes the indy store owner or artist you’re buying from. That means that you could unknowingly overpay for a piece or, worse, pay for something that’s inauthentic or fraudulent that’s being passed off as the real thing.

First, talk to the owner or the artist. Pick his or her brain. Ask about the materials they use, where they source them from, how they’ve crafted it, and more. This serves two purposes. For one, the piece will hold a lot more meaning for you if you know the origin and story behind its creation. Second, you’ll get an understanding of the quality of the materials used, and you’ll also see if any red flags are raised in the process.

And again, you can use a variety of online guides and tools to learn more about the characteristics and quality of what you’re shopping for.

Pick your stone (or metal)

Diamonds, especially among younger generations, are falling a bit out of style for a number of reasons. For one, how many of them are sourced have become an ethical, moral, and sustainability problem. Two, tastes have changed. That’s why we see people on the hunt for less traditional, custom, handcrafted jewelry. Popular gemstone options include pearls, opal, emerald, morganite, smoky quartz, and more.

No matter your style, just be sure you read up on the stone of your choice. Know the ins and outs of what makes a particular gemstone higher quality.

Note the price

It’s the golden rule when buying jewelry: If the price looks too good to be true, it’s probably is. Nobody is going to sell you precious metals or gemstones and half of their fair market value. It’s just not going to happen. In fact, depending on who and where you buy from, you should expect to pay a 20 percent markup – at minimum.

Big caveat: If you’re buying from an independent artist (or one that’s very well known) you can throw your pricing guide out the window. Like a painting or sculpture, a lot of what you’re paying for when you buy handcrafted jewelry from an artist is, well, the art. Sure, there’s a fixed cost for the materials, but just as you wouldn’t expect to pay only for the oil paint and canvas when buying a painting, the same is true for vintage or handcrafted jewelry.

No matter your style, there’s a look out there for you. Use these tips wisely to find the perfect piece.

Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods is the best 2020 release I’ve seen so far

As a brief respite from extolling the treasures to be found in streaming services, this intrepid reviewer will now take the time to praise new films.

Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods is the best 2020 release I’ve seen so far, and I’m reasonably confident it will remain “up there” as the year continues. It is a compelling, powerful exploration of friendship, race relations, war, greed, and mortality, with the Vietnam War and civil rights a huge part of the narrative—in both the past and the present. Many years after the Vietnam War, four surviving black Vietnam vets – Clarke Peters as Otis), Delroy Lindo (Paul), Norm Lewis (Eddie) and Isaiah Whitlock Jr.(Melvin) have returned to Vietnam to recover the remains of a fifth (Chadwick Bozeman’s Norman, seen in flashbacks). Norman, has inspired almost divine reverence from the others, especially in his commitment to righting the wrongs his race has suffered at the hands of white oppressors. So when (in the flashbacks) they intercept a gold shipment, it is Norman who convinces the others they should claim it for their own, with the intention of using the gold as reparations. The four “bloods,” much older now and with different mindsets (Lindo’s Paul is a devout Trump-ian who wears his MAGA hat with pride, Lewis’ Eddie puts up a prosperous front that shields desperation at the core) and different ideas of what to do with the gold if they find it—and are able to get it out. Otis’ Vietnamese ex-lover connects them with a Frenchman (Jean Reno) who offers to assist in this regard (for a substantial price).

All that remains is the journey itself, one that is infused with homages to classic films (Apocalypse Now, Treasure of the Sierra Madre) and fraught with complications stemming from the participants’ age, prejudices both latent and exposed, questionable loyalties, and an encroaching sense of guilt. And then there are the more palpable obstacles, such as possible interlopers and an explosive terrain with its own way of clinging to the past, in the form of undetected landmines. Lee juxtaposes the events of the present with documentary footage and interviews which serve to reinforce the sense of our nation’s minefields of social and racial unrest (of course at this point in time, the film is sadly timelier than ever). There are also the Vietnam War flashbacks, in which the four older actors are seen as they are (no de-aging as in The Irishman) opposite Bozeman’s heroic Norman. While some might criticize this, it works since we’re seeing these events in a subjective manner, through the heroes’ memories of these fateful moments. These scenes establish the lasting bond formed by the heroes, as well as the savagery of war—and the irony—not lost on the soldiers or the audience—that these men are fighting for a country that has, in their minds, long since abandoned them. No de-aging necessary here– the emotions and the anguish are loud and clear.

Da 5 Bloods isn’t a perfect film – it meanders in spots, and it can be a tad repetitive – but it is an exciting, suspenseful, relevant, and potent drama nonetheless. It is filled with haunting vignettes: Peters’ Otis visiting his ex-lover and a certain awareness that sets in; a history lesson amid the vitriol between Jean Reno and Lindo’s Paul; the journey along the river, where a seemingly innocuous exchange threatens to ignite into a violent encounter; an intense scene between Lindo’s Paul and his son David (Jonathan Majors) which almost embodies the idea that people do “contain multitudes” (I don’t want to spoil anything); a blistering monologue by Lindo’s Paul that takes no prisoners. Lee gets exceptional work from all his actors, with Lindo, Bozeman, Peters, Whitlock and Lewis (his largest film role to date) serving as a peerless ensemble. Da 5 Bloods can be seen on Netflix (there I go, praising Netflix again), and it’s another rewarding Spike Lee “joint” and well worth seeing.

Here’s the NoHo News for June 18

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NoHo News: Sashay Away Corona. The Federal’s Al Fresco. Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Dance and Acting Class Guide.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

NoHo News: Sashay Away Corona. The Federal's Al Fresco. Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Dance and Acting Class Guide. 

Follow NoHo News with Bloglovin

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

The Federal NoHo Reopens!

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The Federal’s Returning Chef Stefhanie Meyers Brings Farm to Tables Both Inside and Out.

The Federal NoHo reopens via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Knitting Factory Entertainment is excited to welcome on-premises dining back to beloved North Hollywood gastropub The Federal North Hollywood under returning Head Chef Stefhanie Meyers and General Manager Steve Simon. The Federal’s re-opening leads the resurgence of the NoHo Arts District, home to the Valley’s largest concentration of independent theatres, restaurants and bars.

“We’re so happy to be able to resume serving our community,” says Simon. “We appreciate the loyalty of our patrons during the pandemic hiatus who generously supported our staff with donations and the restaurant with robust takeout business. We’re looking forward to bringing our family back together with YOUR family.”

The Federal has ushered in a number of changes to make on-premises dining safe as well satisfying. Most significant among these has been the construction of an attractive, expansive, brick-walled outdoor patio, offering spacious, socially-distant seating for up to 80 guests under two large tents complete with “sanitation stations.” Simon has reconfigured inside seating and bar access to offer more room for guests as they follow sensible, sane guidelines for gathering. Rigorous sanitation procedures in food preparation and guest contact follow the cuisine from kitchen to table. Menus are disposable or scannable from guest tables with QR codes. All these measures and features bring back a sense of community without too close contact.

“In hindsight, we’d always wanted a patio and we’re grateful circumstances have allowed us to have it,” Simon says. “We’re offering somewhat limited menu for the next few weeks with a refresh and update due in July, and we’re adding promotions and new drinks as we go on. We’re starting with Happy Hour daily from 3:00pm-6:00pm and bottomless Mimosas for brunch at the weekends.”

The Federal NoHo reopens via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

The Federal reopening coincides with the return of Stefhanie Meyers as head chef. Back in 2011, during her first tenure, Meyers developed The Federal’s original menu. Stefhanie’s passion for food helped establish the Federal as a pioneer of the gastropub tradition and a primary watering hole for the North Hollywood crowd. With her return, she plans to rethink what American classic food means from its journey from the ground and the animal to how it is eaten at The Federal.

Meyers previously worked under Chef John Sedlar and helped in the opening of his restaurant Playa Rivera. Under Sedlar’s mentorship, she learned how to efficiently and successfully run a menu and kitchen – skills she then took to The Federal as head chef. She then went on to become the Executive Chef of Bow & Truss—a remarkable, groundbreaking pan-Latin taverna. At Bow & Truss, Meyers was able to experiment and focus on freshness, but not at the cost of full, bold Spanish flavors.

The Federal NoHo reopens via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

This passion for a farm to table philosophy inspired Meyers to pack her bags to move to Sandpoint, Idaho, where she became the Executive Chef and General Manager at The Bistro Rouge with the Pend d’Oreille Winery. Being in Idaho enabled her to work intimately with farmers to bring only the best and freshest ingredients to the diners, to work seasonably, and to think about sustainability that is as much in harmony with the planet as the palate.

Meyers has brought the sum of her years in cooking, growing, and creating food to The Federal again, and has already instituted changes from the ground up by switching suppliers and pursuing higher rates of Non-GMO food. After The Federal re-establishes its footing with favorites and basics this summer, her proposed changes to the menu will show a focus to sharable items with a stronger inkling towards vegetarian and gluten-free options in order to ensure everyone can enjoy a bite—all of which will feature Meyer’s philosophy of “from scratch” cooking. The brunch menu will be next to get a makeover, ensuring people from all walks of life will be able to get delicious, incredibly fresh American gastropub food from morning to night.

The Federal NoHo reopens via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

For all of her holistic food chops though, Chef Stefhanie hasn’t strayed from the way people are going to eat in 2020—and her commitment to food safety and cleanliness far precedes COVID-19. She concludes, “I embrace fun trends, so long as they still offer creativity. The has offered an opportunity to re-evaluate the customer experience and rise to the challenge to meet it with excellence”—indoors, outdoors, and at home.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CBRov96FTou/


**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

Act Authentically – An Actors Workout

Things to do during Shelter in Place – Read my book. 

Last month I talked about actors asking me what they can be doing during the Coronavirus shelter in place. I talked about reading a play a week. Well, this month I recommend a book to read, Act Authentically – An Actors Workout.

Ok, I’ll confess, it’s a book I’ve written and is being launched this month on Amazon, so this is somewhat of a shameless promotion. I do feel it fits into actor advice, which is what this blog is about.

I wrote this book during my teaching beginning acting classes for over 20 years.  It is a compilation of my notes and exercises that are used in our Foundation Class.  I have found when coaching actors from all levels of experience and training, that certain aspects of their work was weak, sloppy, or not grounded in their emotional lives. So, over time I developed a series of exercises that builds a solid foundation of preparation, activities, and working moment to moment, to create a spontaneous unique chemistry with each performance.  Some of the exercises come from the school of “Method Acting” and some from “The Meisner Technique”. So whatever your background, it speaks and adds to all theories of training.

If you’re a beginning actor, it will give you the foundation of what the work is all about, if you’re an intermediate or advanced actor, it will refresh, sharpen, and strengthen your skills.

I tell new actors that when they take and complete all the work of the Foundation Course, which uses this book as it’s textbook, you will know three things; 1) what the acting craft is about, 2) if you’re any good at it, and 3) If you want to pursue it further either as a personal interest or profession. I know this to be true from the experience of taking hundreds of actors through this program for over 30 years.

It’s a fun read, and there is definitely helpful information for all actors and especially actors new to Los Angeles.

Check it out on Amazon, Act Authentically by Fran Montano.

Till next time, take care.

Les Techno “Flowers for Dystopia (Objects)” Single Release

This is the second time I have had the distinct pleasure of reviewing a Les Techno track.

The first was “Closer Look” last year, which was excellent, and this new song, “Flowers for Dystopia,” is another, although far far different kind of love song.  With a nod to the gorgeousness of gloomy 80’s techno pop, the track, with its jangling guitars, driving clap track, fluttering Tamborine and deep melodic base pulls on our heart strings as we sway sublimely.

It’s a cry in the darkness kind of song. Pleading for relief, pining for another and just beautifully produced, masterfully concocted, its musicality an emerging journey like pulling us along with it as it grows.  It’s short, a 45 length, no messing around!  But I love that.  No apologies, no pretense, just groove and rhythm and message…old style New Wave. David Bowie, New Order, Yazoo.

This belongs on a dance floor, or played in a huge festival…if they ever happen again.  I can just see the crowds singing along, fists in the air, demanding to be heard and seen, It’s quite the song for where we all find ourself in fact.  Lost and alone, begging for connection.  The more I listed to the lyrics the more I realize that maybe that is exactly what he sings about.

“Don’t let me go,” “I’m alone with this room with the wizards dressed in their gown and the masks that hide the cruel decisions.”  Brilliant stuff. Poignant, prophetic and yearning.  He’s a gifted producer and writer, having worked with some of the biggest influencers of the last several decades like Run DMC, Mobb Deep and Ava Cherry and even remixed Red Hot Chili Peppers.  This track is the kind of anthemic, pounding, urgent song that we need right now. Something that moves us and fills us and means something without telling us how to feel or pretending to have any answers. I absolutely bloody love “Flowers for Dystopia.”  More please!!!!

Listen on Spotify.

Listen on Apple Music.

Share the lyric video.

Listen to the Remix on Spotify.

Les Techno Online:

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5 Tips for Living in a Small Apartment

North Hollywood may be a little cheaper than other neighborhoods in Los Angeles, but it’s still not exactly cheap.

If you’re a young person just getting started in the city, learning to live in a small space can be an adjustment — especially if you come from a much lower-cost-of-living area.

Fortunately, this path has been well-trod. There are plenty of clever hacks, tools, and furniture pieces that can help you make your tiny apartment feel much, much bigger. From multipurpose furniture pieces to using your wall space, here are five of the best ways to maximize your limited living space.

1) Make the Most of Your Wall Space

Small-space living is all about making the most of the space you have, so if you aren’t using your vertical space to the fullest, you’re missing out on a lot of potential storage and decor space. Use open shelving, pegboards, and corner shelves and cabinets to wring more storage and decor space out of your tiny apartment.

Hang your TV on the wall, and use wall sconces to eliminate the need to spend valuable floor and table real estate on lamps. In the kitchenette, hang pots, pans, and utensils from a ceiling or wall rack. You can even install a bar rack to store stemmed glasses. Use a floating wall desk for a space-saving home office, and take bookcases and cabinets all the way up to the ceiling. A high shelf can provide storage for books, knick-knacks, and essentials, while making the ceiling feel higher.

2) Buy Multi-Purpose Furniture

When you’re living in a small space, all, or at least most, of your furniture should be pulling double-duty. Use a futon or a daybed to go effortlessly from night to day and back again — or, if you have a one-bedroom, use this hack to add guest bed capabilities to your living room.

Use a trunk for a coffee table, and install a Murphy table that can serve for dining, getting ready in the morning, or working from home. Use wall hooks for storing everything from linens to mugs to jackets and pet accessories. You’re really only limited by your imagination, as the increase in popularity of city living, with its accompanying emphasis on downsizing, has flooded the market, and the more DIY-minded corners of the internet, with creative, space-saving, double-duty furniture pieces of all kinds.

floor space

3) Rent a Storage Unit to Declutter Your Living Space

Lack of storage space is one of the biggest issues small-space dwellers face, and there’s only so much decluttering you can do to address it. You do need some possessions, after all, and while there’s a lot to be said for decluttering and organizing your space well, there’s also no shame in renting a storage unit, especially for items that might be hard to stash in a small studio or one-bedroom. Holiday decorations, sporting equipment, beach umbrellas, family heirlooms, winter clothes for those Christmas trips back to Wisconsin — all of it could go into a storage unit, so you don’t have to worry about stepping over it or shoving it aside multiple times a day, every day, for the rest of your life. You wouldn’t be the first small-apartment dweller to have the idea — and you should be able to easily find storage in Los Angeles as a result.

4) Maximize Natural Light

If at all possible when apartment-hunting, choose a place that gets plenty of natural light through big windows. The more natural light your apartment gets, the bigger and more spacious it will feel. You can maximize the amount of light in your apartment through design tricks like painting with high-gloss paint or hanging large mirrors on the wall to reflect the light.

5) Keep It Clean

In a tiny apartment, there’s nowhere to go to escape the mess — but, fortunately, with less space to clean, the job takes up less of your free time. Keep your small living space clean, tidy, and well-organized, because leaving just a few things out of place in a small space can quickly make it begin to feel disorganized and cluttered. Give yourself an advantage by setting up some organizational systems to keep everything in its place, and clean as you go so the work never gets overwhelming.

Living in a small space is challenging, but what does it matter if you have a tiny apartment — you’re in Los Angeles! You can always go out to enjoy everything the city has to offer, while your small apartment can be your little slice of refuge from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The Power of Creative Care

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Experience Talks is back…as a live Zoomcast!

EngAGE CEO Tim Carpenter kicks off the conversations with MacArthur Genius Grant winner Anne Basting for a timely look at how creativity and imagination may be the most powerful tools we have to get through these difficult times. Basting is the founder of TimeSlips and the author of the newly released book, “Creative Care: A Revolutionary Approach to Dementia and Elder Care.”

WHEN: June 24 11 am PST
WHERE: Zoom
HOW: register@engagedaging.org

(If you can’t make the zoom cast you can head over to the engagedaging YouTube channel)

EngAGE's Experience Talks zoom cast with author Anne Basting for a look at how creativity and imagination may be the most powerful tools we have to get through these difficult times via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

From author Anne Basting:

“I have always felt an urgency to getting these tools to caregivers. But in this historical moment, the need is multiplied 1000-fold by the closing of social programs for people with dementia and the desperate need for meaningful engagement with elders now on lockdown.

This book chronicles my story of how I came to find the power of creative care; the elements of it and how it can be infused into care relationships; and how creative care practices can help transform our care systems themselves.

In the moment of COVID-19, everyone is a caregiver. And creativity not only is a helpful tool, it’s our new way of being in this unprecedented time.

I hope you find these stories both soothing and inspiring. The team at my non-profit TimeSlips is working furiously to bring more and more creative engagement tools to caregivers in every setting. Visit the Creativity Center at timeslips.org for more information.”


The Experience Talks award-winning team has many years of experience in radio production, journalism, issues of older adults and Baby Boomer trends, and has made a pact to notice that stories come in all ages. Experience Talks is a program of EngAGE EngAGE is a nonprofit that takes a whole-person approach to community and creative, healthy aging by providing arts, wellness, lifelong learning, community building and intergenerational programs to thousands of seniors and families living in affordable senior and multi-generational apartment communities in California, Oregon, and Minnesota.

By delivering life-enhancing, tailored programming in well-being, the arts, lifelong learning and intergenerational opportunities, seniors and others are enabled to use their acquired skills in real-world ways to gain enrichment and mastery. Through our programs, participants experience the empowerment of intellectual and creative engagement, and improve their health at the same time. We have chosen housing as our platform to deliver programs that fully engage residents and provide them with dynamic intellectual and creative challenges as well as a healthy sense of self-fulfillment, value, and community, all at no cost to the participants.

The EngAGE mission is to empower people – intellectually, creatively, and emotionally – to do what they do best for the rest of their lives. Where others see a problem, we see potential. Where loss, decline, or deficit are perceived, we see opportunity and capacity.

EngAGE created the North Hollywood Senior Arts Colony, which opened in late 2012 with all the amenities of the prototype, but with the addition of a state-of-the-art 70-seat theater and a resident professional theater company, The Road Theatre Company. In addition to many other programs, EngAGE organizes art shows of professional artists from Southern California in the spacious art gallery.

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.  ws, official NoHo Arts District Guide, wwwnohoartsdistrict.com

COVID-19 Job Losses

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From the offices of L.A. Controller Ron Galperin

L.A. Controller Ron Galperin released an interactive, online data story that reveals an estimated 300,000 job losses locally since the COVID-19 pandemic hit in March. Located at lacontroller.org/joblosses, “COVID-19 Job Losses in L.A.” includes a dashboard that maps job losses by neighborhood and industry, along with graphs showing the impact on Los Angeles compared to state and national job loss numbers. Galperin’s research found that many of the neighborhoods impacted most by the economic shutdown are in Central, South and Northeast Los Angeles, areas with higher concentrations of African American and Latino families, immigrants, low-income renters and single-parent households than other parts of the City.

“America lost a staggering 20.5 million jobs in April, including hundreds of thousands in the City of Los Angeles — something we haven’t seen since the Great Depression,” said Controller Galperin. “The pandemic has amplified the devastation felt by low-income neighborhoods and communities of color, highlighting just how much economic injustice truly exists in our City. It is my hope that understanding which neighborhoods are most impacted will help City leaders pinpoint areas of L.A. that need additional resources to recover from the fallout of COVID-19. We have to be a City that not only speaks of equality, but acts to promote it.”

COVID 19 Job Losses in L A – Los Angeles City Controller Ron Galperin (1)

Since March 2020, unemployment has reached historic heights, with more than 4.7 million Californians filing claims, including 401,000 Angelenos — a more than 300 percent increase over February of this year. Galperin’s job losses data story illustrates how the widespread economic shutdown caused the evaporation of L.A. area jobs by highlighting the following:

  • L.A. County lost an estimated 685,000 jobs (including the City of L.A.) over the last two months — the largest month-over-month employment downturn in recent history. The City of L.A. lost an estimated 300,000+ jobs during that time period. For context, the next biggest decline for the entire County was 127,900 jobs lost in January 2009, the height of the Great Recession. 

  • Neighborhoods in the City of Los Angeles have an estimated 14.8 percent to 18 percent fewer residents employed now than before COVID-19 — with a citywide average of 16.2 percent — showing how the shutdown has impacted every community in Los Angeles. 

  • The largest losses citywide were in these industries: 

    • Accommodation and food service: down 70,000 jobs

    • Retail trade: down 33,000 jobs 

    • Healthcare: down 27,000 jobs

    • Information: down 19,000 jobs

  • Neighborhood with the most total job losses: North Hollywood, where 17,000 residents lost their jobs.

  • Five neighborhoods with the highest percentage of job losses:

    • St. Elmo Village (Mid-City.): 18 percent of residents lost their jobs — 28 percent worked in accomodation and food services, 13 percent in retail and 6 percent in healthcare. 

    • Pico-Union: 17.6 percent of residents lost their jobs — 27 percent worked in accomodation and food services, 12 percent in retail and 7 percent in healthcare. 

    • Westlake: 17.3 percent of residents lost their jobs — 27 percent in accomodation and food services, 11 percent in retail and 7 percent in healthcare. 

    • Harvard Heights (Central L.A.): 17.3 percent of residents lost their jobs — 27 percent in accomodation and food services, 11 percent retail and 9 percent in healthcare. 

    • Central (Downtown/South L.A): 17.2 percent of residents lost their jobs — 23 percent in accomodation and food services, 12 percent retail and 10 percent manufacturing.

View the job losses data story at lacontroller.org/joblosses or https://lacontroller.org/data-stories-and-maps/job-losses/. 

As L.A. Controller, Galperin seeks to use technology to better connect people with useful public information. He recently released a statewide food map of more than 1,800 food banks, pantries and emergency distribution locations, and a comprehensive COVID-19 Resource Hub for the City of Los Angeles with a dashboard tracking local infection data, a map showing how stimulus checks will be distributed locally, and hundreds of federal, state and local resources organized in to 16 categories for public use. 

View all of Galperin’s data stories and resource maps: lacontroller.org/resourcemaps. 

Follow L.A. Controller Ron Galperin at @LAController on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.

How Redesigning your Garden Can Reward your Mental Health

It is no secret that Mother Nature is a force to be reckoned with in terms of physical and mental healing. Just quietly sitting outside in the fresh air offers you a wealth of benefits such as improved mood and reduced stress levels.

One way to gain these benefits is to spend more time in your backyard gardening. Even the most novice of gardeners will agree that the serenity of nature is a powerful tool in decompressing our minds and grounding our spirits after a frantic day in the concrete jungles that surround us. It is an inexpensive and straightforward hobby that pays off in a big way and does not require much space.

Whether you have a small balcony or a considerably larger backyard, redesigning your garden is rewarding for both your physical and mental health. If you are considering going all out and installing water fountains for outdoors or want to convert your balcony into a hanging garden, now is the time to start. If you are contemplating whether gardening is for you, here are a few reasons why you should still consider it, especially if you are looking for a mental break:

The Sunshine Vitamin

Vitamin D or also known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ is a fat-soluble compound that our bodies require to function correctly. Certain foods contain Vitamin D; however, one of the main ways our bodies source this compound is through exposure to direct sunlight. One of the primary benefits of Vitamin D is that it helps to fight off diseases. However, research also shows that it plays a crucial role in warding off anxiety and reducing symptoms of depression.

Studies show that the reason this compound is so active at keeping mood disorders at bay is that it activates certain enzymes that convert tryptophan into serotonin within the brain. Serotonin is a powerful neurotransmitter that is responsible for regulating our sleeping patterns, appetite, and moods.

Light Exercise

Redesigning your garden is a great way to get your blood and creative juices flowing, which is a tried and tested form of physical and mental activity. Even if you are redesigning a vegetable garden with limited space, it still requires some heavy lifting and strategic thinking.

According to research, exercise is one of the most effective ways to boost your mood and protect your mental health, even if it just involves 30 minutes of light activity. The long-term effects of exercise are known to elevate the secretion of serotonin and endorphins, which are like tiny molecules of happiness that lift our spirits and rev up our drive for life.

Patience and Control

There are very few things we can control in this world, and sometimes that can leave us feeling on edge. In a perfect world, everything would be fast and easy; however, we are far from living in an ideal world. Gardening teaches us to let go of things we cannot control. Nature will run its course, and all we can do is accept and embrace the unpredictability.

Gardening also teaches us how to be patient and gives us a sense of accomplishment. We cannot force a plant to flower, just like we cannot force water to flow upstream. It takes quite a bit of time, care, and maintenance to get your garden to bloom, and when it is ready to do so, the sense of achievement will be overwhelming. The end rewards are the perfect remedy for those individuals who suffer from low self-confidence. There is truly nothing quite like watching all your hard work come to life right before your eyes. Knowing your efforts and dedication have promoted the growth of beauty and life is quite the confidence-boosting reward.

Fruitful Harvest

Planting various vegetables and other edible plants will put you on the right path towards a healthier lifestyle. The types of foods we put into our bodies have a significant effect on our mental health and moods. Processed carbohydrate-rich foods are known to increase inflammation and kick our insulin levels and hormones out of balance, which can leave us feeling sluggish and blue. Healthier foods like leafy greens, fruit, and other vegetables that are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals provide our brains and gastrointestinal tract with the fuel it needs to function correctly.

When these complex biological systems are working correctly, our bodies can produce the optimal number of hormones and enzymes that contribute towards protecting our brains from damage and alleviating symptoms associated with mood disorders and depression.

 

The Getty | Online

As LA County greenlights museums to begin opening, many Los Angeles institutions are electing to take a more circumspect route.

Despite being hard hit, both large and small galleries approach reopening with much trepidation. This care and thoughtfulness has long been a hallmark of artistic institutions which have historically taken care of our emotional and intellectual selves, though now they are required to think of our physical safety.

Fear not, gallery-goer! Simply because several large art institutions have indicated they will not open sooner than the end of summer, we are still able to enjoy these stunning and robust works of art – for free! And from the comfort of our homes.

The J Paul Getty Museum is known for its dramatic architecture, lush garden oases and sweeping views of LA. But as we plumb the depths of The Getty’s online exhibitions, our focus turns less to the scenery, and rather to the art itself. Known for featuring artwork dating from the eighth century to the twenty-first century, the Getty collection features European paintings, drawings, sculptures, manuscripts, and cross-border photography.

For our viewing pleasure, the Getty has placed together an online compilation of both its current (suspended) exhibitions, and provides a sneak peek into coming shows. Michelangelo: Mind of the Master is a well-thought out and high-quality virtual education of Michelangelo’s creative process, and artistic acumen.

Beyond The Getty’s current website offerings, The Getty’s partnership with Google Arts and Culture brings a series of virtual tours to the convenience of your couch. Google Arts and Culture is an entity that partners with over 2000 leading museums and archives in order to bring world arts to your computer, phone, and tablet, while still enabling you to enjoy high quality virtual tours and descriptions of art. Offering complete interactive exhibits, Google Arts & Culture + Getty partnership allows us to even sort and curate our own virtual tour by media, or we can even scroll through by color or conglomerate of paintings themselves.

As we all wait with bated breath for galleries to reopen (safely), we may just find that online exhibitions turn our focus more introspectively, and allow us to sit with more history, quality, and appreciation than we envisioned.

Changing Habits Following COVID-19

It looks as if for many of us the worst has moved behind us, lockdown measures are starting to ease and businesses are starting to reopen – the difficulty for many may start to come as we fall into changing our daily routines and habits that have been developed over the past two to three months, but more importantly how these changing habits may impact different businesses across the world and how it may be the responsibility of the consumer, whether right or wrong, to be the linchpin of recovery as the consumer habits change back from the current digital reliance for multiple platforms. 

The last two to three months of lockdown have seen a huge shift in many moving to different online platforms for many aspects of our day to day – the most apparent of this has been seen within online streaming, particularly within film and television. It has been noted that the cinema and theatre industry could be at increased risk as social distancing measures may keep people from attending the venues and damage the box office in favour of staying at home –  this is proving to be double true as some releases that had been intended for a full theatrical release have been confirmed to be exclusive to streamed platforms only, this biggest name here being Hamilton which will forgo a year long theatre run for exclusivity on Disney+ instead. 

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(Image from theverge.com)

The same is true in gaming – despite a change in a recent initiative aimed at preventing problem players from participating called Gamstop, this change made was for operators who were voluntarily registered to do so mandatory or risk losing their operating license, but now there are plenty of non uk casinos for TBC players to use despite the reopening of brick and mortar locations around the world, another example of how habits may change large parts of business – although there have been changes seen in some parts of the world such as Vegas as travel and gaming continue as if there had never been a pandemic, the same may not ring true elsewhere as the market flexes in different ways.

There’s a lot of effort being made toward an economic recovery and how to best approach reaching that goal, but there has been little suggested on how to best overcome this specific challenge – there may even be areas of business not fully explored which would have been impacted by these changing habits but unable to experience that change due to lockdown efforts still being in place. What happens over the next few months may be an indication of changes to come, a fast recovery may not be the most healthy recovery for those who are struggling or those who are trying to regain the ground lost of the past few months, and regaining some of what had been lost will primarily be in the hands of the consumer, which will be a tough sell given most of the consumer market is also struggling just as much.

Worried that Your Partner May Be Cheating on You? Watch Out for These Hidden Signs

Great relationships are built on trust. When trust in a relationship is at stake, so many things are bound to go wrong.

But how will you know that indeed your partner is cheating on you and not mere suspicion? Yes, sometimes you may think your partner is guilty of infidelity, but in reality, they’re not. And you know the effects that can have on your relationship, right?

Luckily, there are a lot of signs to look out for if you suspect your partner is a cheater. Even so, some people decide to seek help from a tarot reader when they suspect their spouse is cheating on them.

A tarot card reading for cheating can help get an insight into what is going on between you and your spouse. However, remember no one knows about your relationship better than you and your partner. Therefore, it is up to you how you process the information.

Getting a tarot reading for cheating can be the start of a long fact-gathering mission. Here are some signs that your spouse may be cheating on you:

1.       Changed Appearance

We all care about our appearance, but if your partner suddenly starts to improve their appearance, then you may have a reason to worry. And this can be in many forms.

For instance, your partner may start being cautious of their weight and diet, or even their body shape and clothing. While this can be due to other reasons, sometimes it can be a sign that they want to appear attractive to another person.

Yes, sometimes they may be doing it for you or themselves. And since you know your better half more than anyone else, you can come with better judgment.

2.       Lack of Intimacy

Are you feeling distanced from you’re your partner? When is the last time you were intimate with each other? Well, while there’s no definite guide into the frequency of sex in a relationship, sometimes these changes can mean something is wrong in your relationship.

If there’s no disagreement between you and you’re feeling detached from each other, then infidelity might be the reason. Your partner might be seeing another person, and so they don’t feel your need anymore.

Sometimes it is the opposite. Your partner may be more attentive to you in bed to ensure you don’t suspect they’re cheating. As earlier said, you’re the player and knows the field better.

3.       Hiding their Phone and Computer Use

if you suddenly realize that your partner is guarding their phone and computer more than they used to, then it may be a sign that they’re cheating on you. Cheaters tend to change the password on their devices to ensure that no one discovers their plans.

You also need to be suspicious if our partner deletes their messages or clears their browsing history. If your partner never lets you touch their phone, that could also be a good sign.

4.       Their Friends Are Cheating

Most often we attract people of our kind. To that end, if your partner’s friends are cheaters, there’s a high possibility that your partner will cheat on you too. After all, when a person is exposed to the same behavior for a long time, they are likely to pick it up.

However, don’t label your partner a cheater just because their friends cheat. Sometimes your partner may be the one to encourage the other to stop cheating.

5.       Change in Interests

Love has a lot to do with our interests. As such, you should be wary if your partner suddenly starts showing new interests.

If you notice habit change in your partner, you should go ahead and ask them why. Sometimes their habit changes maybe because they’re seeing another person.

6.       They Claim You’re Unfaithful

Your partner can also accuse you of cheating in a bid to discourage you from questioning their behavior.  They will go ahead to talk about fidelity so that you may not doubt them.

7.       Sudden Changes in Their Spending Habits

If you notice unexplained expenses in your partner’s accounts or credit cards, it might be a sign that there’s something fishy in your relationship.

If your partner can’t give a satisfactory answer when you ask them, there’s a possibility that they are in another relationship. Infidelity is costly, and this can explain why you see the many unexplained expenses.

Staying Healthy and Safe During the Coronavirus Threat

As the threat of coronavirus continues people have never before been so in tune with their own health and actions.

Where it used to be that you may not think twice about going out to a crowded grocery store or taking a stroll through a crowded park, in today’s health crisis people are examining every action of their lives with a fine-toothed comb. Doing what you can to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy during coronavirus is a top concern for the majority of people. But what does that entail exactly?

While there are all kinds of things you can do, it is the basic measures and steps that can prove to be the most beneficial in keeping yourself healthy. These are some excellent steps to start with.

Wear a Mask When Physical Distancing Isn’t Possible

Most people are well aware of how important physical distancing is right now – maintaining a safe six-foot distance between you and everyone else. This helps to cut down on the ability for the virus to be transmitted as you aren’t in close contact with others. While that is the best way to prevent getting sick, the reality is that it isn’t always possible.

This is exactly why so many public health departments and the CDC itself are encouraging the use of face masks, or face coverings when physical distancing isn’t possible. Depending on where you live your state and or city/town may also have its own rules and regulations in place regarding face coverings. Wearing a mask will prevent an infected person from transmitting the disease, so the idea is to have everyone in a mask and thereby eliminate the transmission.

Today you’ll find all kinds of stylish custom printed face masks that are washable and reusable, making masks readily accessible and cost-effective since you can just wash the same mask over and over. You may even want to pick up a few so you’ve always got one clean and ready to go.

Wash Your Hands Regularly

One of the best defenses against the coronavirus is to wash your hands often. You want to be sure you’re not just doing a quick wash though, it needs to be vigorous scrubbing for at least 20 seconds with soap.

Washing your hands is even more important when you’re out and about, but this can be difficult as there isn’t always a sink available. In those cases use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with more than 60% alcohol in it. Again, you want to rub it in for a good 20 seconds in order to be effective.

Stay Away from People that Are Sick – and Stay Home if You Are Sick

Another important step is to stay away from anyone who is sick right now, especially those with flu-like symptoms. If it’s you that is sick, you need to stay home to ensure you don’t unknowingly spread the virus.

Keep Up to Date on Health Measures Where You Live

Each town, city, and state has its own health measures in place, including various lockdown and quarantine measures. It’s up to you to stay updated on these and make sure you are following all the latest rules and recommendations.

Avoid Crowded Areas and Spaces

The final tip is to avoid crowded areas and spaces whenever possible. That could mean making some adjustments to your daily routine and schedule to be out there doing errands and activities at less busy times of the day.

Using Common Sense and Safety Measures Work

At the end of the day using common sense when it comes to virus transmission and sticking to proven safety measures will work to keep you and your family safe and healthy.

Martha Graham Dance Company at The (virtual) Soraya

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From our friends at The Soraya – “Immediate Tragedy,” Martha Graham Dance Company’s response to the moment.

WHAT: “Immediate Tragedy” (world premiere commissioned by The Soraya)

Inspired by Martha Graham’s lost solo from 1937, this reimagined version will feature 14 dancers and include new music composed by Wild Up’s Christopher Rountree.

The 30-minute world premiere showings will include interviews with the collaborators, a screening of a recent performance of Deep Song, a solo which the choreographer created as a companion to Immediate Tragedy in 1937, and the premiere of the new digital Immediate Tragedy, which is 10 minutes long.

The ongoing collaboration by three major arts organizations—Martha Graham Dance Company, the Los Angeles-based Wild Up music collective, and The Soraya—will continue June 19 with the premiere of a digital dance inspired by archival remnants of Martha Graham’s Immediate Tragedy, a solo she created in 1937 in response to the Spanish Civil War. Graham created the solo in collaboration with composer Henry Cowell, but it was never filmed and has been considered lost for decades. Drawing on the common experience of today’s immediate tragedy — the global pandemic — the 22 artists creating the project are collaborating from locations across the U.S. and Europe using a variety of technologies to coordinate movement, music, and digital design.

WHEN: Friday, June 19 at 4PM

WHERE: FACEBOOK 

MORE INFO>>

More about the world premiere

The Spanish Civil War is a chapter of history that is sometimes overlooked, eclipsed by World War II. However, in the context of our present day, its importance re-emerges: In the years following a devastating pandemic comes widespread political instability and economic hardship. A widening gap in ideology turns into ethnic conflict, and eventually, a violent and authoritarian regime takes hold.

Federico García Lorca

My introduction to that period was the poet/playwright Federico García Lorca. Not only were Lorca’s plays and poems celebrated, but he also championed a renaissance in classic Spanish theater, taking a band of actors and a truck that doubled as a stage to the people in the countryside. Lorca was also a firebrand among a group of transformative European artists and intellectuals, including his companion, Salvador Dalí. He was a popular figure at home, in Madrid’s café life, and abroad when he traveled to South America, Cuba, and New York City.

In 1936 Lorca was one of the first casualties of the Spanish Civil War, brutally murdered in the middle of the night. Though the exact circumstances are unknown, it is believed he was dragged from his house and assassinated by Franco’s henchmen. The Franco regime described Lorca as a bad influence, a leftist, and a homosexual.

As the Spanish Civil War erupts, America’s isolationist policies take hold. In the face of the gross injustice and violence, however, it is American artists and writers who stepped forward. Hemingway may be best known in this context. Another was Martha Graham. Following Lorca’s assassination, she premiered two new pieces in response to the Spanish atrocities. One is Deep Song, named for a Lorca poem. The other is Immediate Tragedy. The latter piece has been lost to history. However, Graham’s own writings about the piece, along with some recently discovered photographs of the premiere on a contact sheet that confirms the order of the images, allows us to imagine her solo piece dedicated to the Spanish Civil War. In that context, we have chosen to create a piece inspired both by Graham’s original work, as well as by the circumstances of our present moment.

Farewell Ceremony for the International Brigade by Robert Capa

Necessity is the mother of invention — the dancers have filmed themselves at home, with daily instruction from Artistic Director Janet Eilber. The new score, replacing the lost one composed by Henry Cowell, was created from the home of composer/conductor Christopher Rountree, recorded by five musicians from his music collective Wild Up. The team of 21 artists conducted the entirety of their work over several weeks of Zoom meetings and rehearsals. The final “performance” was overseen by The Soraya’s own Ricki Quinn, who collaborated with Janet Eilber in editing the video.

While I could say much more about the creative process with Janet, Christopher, Ricki, the dancers, and the musicians, I will instead end where I began — with the political and socio-economic backdrop. It is said that all performance is, by its very nature, a political act. At The Soraya, we have always championed artists who give voice to the disenfranchised. At this time, when our stage is dark, we have not ceased that important work. With this online version of Immediate Tragedy, we all join Martha Graham herself to offer you a piece that uplifts the power of resistance and resilience in the face of injustice.

Please join us for this world premiere on June 19 at 4 PM (“Fridays at Four”). The performance will be preceded by an interview with Janet Eilber and Christopher Rountree as well as a recently filmed performance of Deep Song, the piece that accompanied Immediate Tragedy in 1937.

Gratefully,
Thor Steingraber
Executive Director


**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

Quarantine Socialization with Pets

Under these different and odd circumstances, I’ve received countless emails and questions on socializing new puppies and new rescue dogs.

If you look at many articles it talks about how your puppy should meet 100 people and as many dogs as possible in the first month. If you got a new rescue dog, you probably want the dog to meet everyone to make sure things will go smoothly with your friends and neighbors and friends dogs. We currently live in an environment where in many places, that just isn’t easy or can’t happen at all. I wanted to give some training tips for the puppy and rescue dog situation to help.

This might put your mind at ease to start with…socialization in it’s accepted form is overrated! Socialization usually means interacting. Unfortunately, your puppy is a sponge and learns everything good and bad very quickly. This means that the tons of people you have meet your new puppy or dog makes them think they are always greeting people. They often don’t care about you at all and when on a walk, they are just looking for their next meal ticket! (pets on the head and attention)

Even when I train puppies, I do a few controlled introductions to people over the course of a week and make sure they see 10 times more people just move on by, rather then interact with them. This promotes a calmer mindset for the puppy. When people walk by and the puppy pulls out of curiosity or excitement, strangers talk to them, or a dog barks at them, I use food to help them focus on me. They learn that seeing people often means to look at me for food. This is what gets you a calmer adolescent dog that cares more about their owner than seeking attention from life around them. This type of socialization is calm existence, although puppies aren’t so calm, haha. They will likely be hopping all over the place and that’s okay. You are teaching them to see exciting things and redirect that attention on to you using space, moving away from the distraction, then food, to refocus them and have a positive association with seeing different people. Try to go to a park where you might see bikes, strollers and kids playing with their parents at a distance to get them used to all of those sights and sounds. You just hang out and do your basic obedience work the pup has already learned inside. Sometimes use food and sometimes just let them observe life around them if they aren’t pulling. This creates positive associations.

Greeting some people is necessary if you can, but it doesn’t need to be a ton of people. Do your best with who you have access to. Have some trusted family members meet the puppy outside to practice an organic street meeting and also inside. If you don’t have anyone you can use that doesn’t already live with you, pretend with someone in the house. Have a roommate or family member where different types of clothes, maybe a hat, carry an umbrella and use a different scent of cologne or perfume. Then have that person hang out down at the end of the block and practice a “meet”. Your puppy may even be startled at first and need lots of food for confidence work. Figure out what startles your puppy and you’ll know what to work on more. Is it a big jacket? The hat? The umbrella?…etc. If your puppy is just crazy excited to see someone they know, work on getting some focus (even a “come” and food and then release your pup) before letting them say hello to the person.

Practice the same scenario above a couple of times a week in the house with door knocking, calling your phone, doorbell, etc. However people usually come over, that is how you set it up to practice. Your pup will get a great foundation. If you live alone and have no one you can use because maybe you are considered in the high-risk category for COVID 19, practice the door knocking yourself. Even come through the door and when your puppy runs up curious, drop some food, and then ask for a sit, another piece of food and then calmly walk in and ignore. That way the knocking and doorbell is positive for the puppy. Maybe treat yourself to an amazon order and be ready for the drop off too. That way you can practice the same thing, even though the delivery person leaves the box, you can pretend someone is there. (we really do this all the time with dogs to prep them for the real thing)

Now puppies learning to be social with dogs is trickier right now.

There is no substitute for an animal. You can play dogs barking, playing, doing sports and more on youtube for your puppy. Start it at a low level and see how your puppy responds. It should be all kinds of noises from dogs, not just heavy barking. Feed your puppy throughout the noises and try to work your puppy. This will help your puppy long term with distractions outside. Hear the neighbor dog bark? Turn and look at owner for food, etc.

See if any of your friends have a calm dog that tolerates puppies or got a puppy themselves and abide by the rules in your state/city for social distancing. Do not force your puppy to greet dogs you don’t know or dogs that may not be friendly, even if that dog belongs to a friend. We see countless puppies that love dogs until they are attacked or have a bad incident with another dog. It can take them weeks to get over it, if they even do. Quality over quantity is very important.

If access to dogs isn’t possible, you must do what I mentioned above with people. Go out of your way to find areas (if you can) where dogs are walking. Stay at a distance at first and be a treat machine. I don’t want your pup to PULL hard towards dogs. That can cause a lot of frustration down the road. I want them to observe if they are calmer pups or you are luring them to focus on you for food. That way they see a dog and it means yummy food! This is the best we can do right now and in my experience that goes very far when it comes to socializing dogs and is even MORE beneficial than constant engagement. Yes, a balance of the two is ideal, but this may be the best we can do.

Okay, let’s talk about the new rescue dogs!

Not to be dismissive, but it’s much the same as above. What I didn’t include is more accountability for too much excitement when seeing people and dogs. By accountability I mean you aren’t using tons of food constantly like with a puppy. It’s a balance of some food work that is calmer, delivered with low key energy from you and just telling your dog to move it and not pull towards other dogs and people 🙂 They need more structure too. If you have a dog come over, go for a walk first. That way their first interaction, other than seeing dogs at a distance, isn’t just off-leash fun. Do a 20-30 minute walk together first with a little sniffing of each other, but mostly use movement to focus on the walk. Then do some off-leash socialization. Respect your dogs wishes if they are not ready to play with a dog yet or meet a new person. Just having them walk together is a good, low pressure situation that can build confidence in a rescue dog or a dog that is overzealous.

For new rescue dogs, meeting people it is similar.

Just make sure the people are not over-excited. Instruct your guest or family member in the house to let your dog go to them first if your new dog is a little unsure. You can use food and so can the new person, but don’t let the new person just reach out and amp up your new dog. Calmer and more controlled scenarios are especially important for older dogs new to being in a home.

One more thing before I let you all go. Whether you got a new puppy or older dog in the last few months, it’s your responsibility to expose them to as much as possible in this weird time. That might mean traveling with your puppy in a travel case more often since they are not vaccinated yet. It means finding an old large stuffed animal for your dog that might be scary to them. Using umbrellas, bulky jackets, hats and sunglasses, skateboards, loud noises on youtube of kids playing, dogs, traffic, etc., climbing over obstacles, the list is endless of things you need to work your dog or puppy around to prepare them for a normal life and build their confidence and tolerance up for what the world has in store for them.

6 Ways to Avoid Becoming Too Sedentary if You Have an Office Job

If you have an office job that involves sitting behind a computer for several hours each day, you’re probably already somewhat familiar with the accompanying lifestyle dangers. The sitting and snacking can cause you to gain weight. Sitting in that chair for hours can hurt your back, neck, and other body parts.

Being too sedentary is dangerous, and you’ll need to get creative to avoid the potentially harmful side effects. Here are ideas for how you can do so.

Get Up and Move Around Every Hour

Experts conclude that fewer than 5% of adults get over 30 minutes of physical activity per day. That’s worrying, especially when you consider that:

  • There is a national obesity epidemic
  • Few jobs involve being on your feet and moving around much during the day
  • Automation means even less physical activity for human workers in the future

One way to combat all this is to get up and move around at least once every hour. Prioritize it, even when you’re working on something important.

If you don’t think that you can remember to get up and be active, set an alarm. You can program one on your smartphone or your wearable device, like a Fitbit or Apple Watch.

Walk Around on Your Lunch Hour

Apart from moving around every hour, you can also make a point of walking during your lunch hour. You might:

  • Walk around the block a few times
  • Walk around a nearby public park

You can walk before you eat lunch, or after. How much you can walk, and where you can do so, is going to depend on what’s close by your work.

If your office is in a metropolitan area, you can walk around, explore, and stretch your legs. You might even find some interesting stores or landmarks that you had never noticed before.

Just be sure only to walk around if you’re in a safe area. You’re trying to get some exercise, but it’s not worth it if your only option is walking around a high crime neighborhood.

Go for a Bike Ride at Lunch Time

You might also be able to go for a bike ride at lunchtime. If you have a bike from your teen years, or you bought one as an adult, then you can ride your bike to work if that’s an option for you. You can tie it up somewhere convenient, or some offices have bike rooms now.

When lunchtime comes, after you eat, you can hop on your bike and go for a brisk ride before you’re due to go back to work. It’s exhilarating to get out there when the weather is nice. It will energize and focus you again by the time you get back to work.

Stand When You Talk

Part of avoiding being too sedentary is getting up and moving around periodically, and you can do that whenever you talk to someone. Let’s say that someone comes by your desk, or you get a phone call. In either situation, you can get up and stand while talking.

It might look a little bit strange, but you can explain to your coworkers what you’re trying to do. Tell them that the world’s fourth-leading mortality risk factor is immobility. They will probably be eager to take up this practice as well once they hear that.

 

Take Some Time to Stretch During the Day

Getting up and moving around is excellent, but if you don’t get in a good muscle stretch, expect tightness in your back, calves, and other body parts as the day goes on. See if there is a facility somewhere at your job that’s suitable for stretching. Many offices these days understand sedentary lifestyle dangers, so they have areas for this sort of thing.

If your work doesn’t have a suitable place to stretch, ask about setting one up. All you need is a small room where you can set up some yoga mats.

If you’re a company leader, you can even have times during the day when you can lead your team in some light stretching. You can learn techniques in yoga classes or by watching YouTube videos. A good stretch for those tense muscles during the day is just what you need.

Set Up an Ergonomic Work Station

It also helps to have an ergonomic work station. Ergonomics studies people in their work environment. These days, though, when you hear the term, it usually means trying to envision a desk, chair, etc. that will be as comfortable for you as possible.

Gone are the days of hard, unwieldy office chairs. If you visit a Silicon Valley tech company, you will likely see things like beanbag chairs at work stations.

Whether that sort of thing is going to be possible at your job depends on the atmosphere that your bosses want to have in place. They might be okay with a more casual setup, or they may insist on a more rigid environment.

It doesn’t hurt to ask about these things, though. Try to implement changes if you can. This is about your long-term health and that of your coworkers.

Those who sit for many hours each day open themselves up to a long health problem list. That includes a high chance of developing diabetes. Heart disease and cancer risks are also higher.

Even if you have a boss who is slow to change in the face of these findings, you have to keep at it until you get the office modifications you need. That might involve getting a petition going.

You’re going to need to be persistent, but it’s not as though you’re asking for wholesale office changes. Most of what you need for a healthier day is relatively minor and involved a minimum expense outlay.

Healthy workers are happy ones, and small changes to your daily habits and work environment mean a longer and better-quality life. Do all that you can to be active during your days.

Here’s the NoHo News for June 11

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NoHo News: Sidewalk Singers. Miles Davis Mural. Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide.


Here’s your NoHo arts community update!  
We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.

Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>

This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>

Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.

Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!

 NoHo News: Sidewalk Singers. Miles Davis Mural. Astroglyde. Best of the Fest! Music. Food. Theatre. Dance Studio Guide.

Follow NoHo News with Bloglovin

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

 

Homeowners Insurance: Understanding the Basics

Your home houses some of the most valuable things in your life. From cars, pets, to your loved ones, a home is truly precious. However, disaster can strike. That’s why taking a home insurance policy is key. To get it right, you need to understand the basics. Here’s is a breakdown of what’s covered under a home insurance policy.

What’s Covered?

A good home insurance policy is one that clearly spells out the perils that are covered and those that aren’t. With dwelling coverage, you’re protected by what’s called open perils. With personal property coverage, you’re protected by named perils, implying that you’re covered from the sixteen perils named in the policy.

With ISO (Standard Insurance Services Office), policy, you’re insured against perils, such as fire/lightning, vandalism, wind/hail, smoke, explosion, falling objects, aircraft, riot, theft, volcanic eruption, nuclear hazard, government action, earthquakes, flooding, power failure, the weight of snow or ice, mold, intentional loss, and much more.   

A standard home insurance policy comprises of six basic protections. And those protections include coverage for your home’s structure as well as all the other structures available on your property. And these include:

Dwelling Coverage

This type of coverage is also referred to as dwelling coverage. It provides protection against physical damage to your home’s structure.

With dwelling coverage, the foundation, floors, plumbing, exterior walls, interior walls, water heaters, as well as, cabinetry is fully protected. Remember, your home is covered at its replacement cost. So, the amount you’re paid for a loss is equal to the cost of rebuilding your home at the current prices.

Your policy might also cover detached structures like your garage, gazebo, work shed, or fence. The maximum limit of your other structures is typically 10 percent of your home insurance policy’s dwelling coverage limit.

Personal Property

Homeowners insurance also provides coverage for your personal belongings. If somebody breaks into your house, storage unit, or hotel room and steals your stuff, your insurer will cater for the replacement costs. Personal property coverage also safeguards the guest’s personal property against damage or theft.

Additional living expenses (ALEs)

A home insurance policy also caters for the cost of additional living expenses. In case your house gets destroyed or damaged by a covered peril and you need to move out while it’s repaired or rebuilt, loss-of-use coverage covers everything right from hotel bills and the property’s rental value to restaurant meals.

Personal Liability Coverage

On top of several property coverage policies, home insurance also incorporates personal liability protection in case you’re held liable for someone else’s injuries or damages to their property. This type of coverage caters for legal or medical costs up to your coverage limit.

Conclusion

Home insurance is essential to your home’s safety. It also offers protection to you and your loved ones. So, why not invest in such a beneficial resource? The above guide will help you understand the different types of coverages included in a standard home insurance policy.

5 Best Practice Tips for Music Students

Just like other things in life, there is no shortcut for becoming perfect in music. Perfection in music requires a lot of practice and commitment.

Music students should know that excellence in music relies 90% on practice. After all, practice makes perfect.

So, the question is, how do you ensure that your practice is effective and productive?

In this article, we will talk about 5 best practice tips for music students. Read on!

   1. Practice Regularly

The more you practice many times, the faster it becomes for you to make some progress. If it is possible for you, make a habit of practicing every day.

Keep in mind that practicing frequently in shorter durations is better than doing it irregularly in a lengthy duration. You would rather practice 2 hours every day than doing 5 hours in one day after a whole week.

However, it can be difficult to practice more often without discipline. So, the best thing to do is to choose a specific time in your day and dedicate them to music practice. For example; you could say that the minutes between 6-7 pm every day will be your time to practice music.

Having such a discipline will help you get rid of anything that could hinder you from doing your practice.

   2. Set Your Goals

Having specific goals is essential for effective practice. Identify your short-term and long- term goals and then work towards achieving them. For instance, you may set goals about learning a piece, memorizing lyrics of a particular song, musical exams, and so on.

Writing down your goals and keeping them in mind helps you to remain focused and make use of the time you have effectively.

Training aimlessly will lead you to nowhere. If you want to learn a specific key in piano, then make it a goal to do it within a specific period of time.

   3. Develop a Plan

As with learning other things, music practice requires a plan too. Sit down and decide on the things you intend to focus on to avoid wasting time.

You may consider using the notes given by your music teacher to develop your plan. If you are not taking music lessons, you can formulate your plan based on the things you want to learn.

Your plan should help you work towards achieving the goals that you already set. It should also help you evaluate your progress.

   4. Create the Right Atmosphere

Set up your practice room to facilitate effective practice. If you like practicing in a quiet room, then get rid of all noise distractions.

You can even decide to turn your phone off to avoid distractions from calls and messages.

Make sure that your practice room has all the musical instruments that you need. If you have a great love for keyboards, guitars, or drums, ensure that you have them in your set up.

If you need to buy some instruments, Roaming Sound presents you with the best digital instruments.

   5. Stay Positive

While every music student expects faster results, it is good to be patient and optimistic even when you are not improving quickly.

Some students give up when they fail to get better easily. But you should not let the feelings of discouragement bring you down. It’s better to fail while trying than failing to try.

If you are serious and passionate about music, you must remember that repetition is very important. Don’t get tired of repeating the same thing many times. You will eventually perfect your skills with time.

Are you a music student and you’re yearning to make your practice more effective? These tips will definitely help you. Don’t just read, start using them even today to see a great improvement. Good luck!

An Evening with Laurence Juber

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Theater in the NoHo Arts District isn’t going anywhere except online (for the time being.)

“An Evening with Laurence Juber” is a one-hour live stream concert with Grammy Award-winning guitarist Laurence Juber. A solo performer, recording artist, composer and arranger, his playing fuses folk, jazz, blues, pop and classical styles, creating a multi-faceted performance that belies the use of only one instrument. A portion of the ticket sales will be donated to the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks, CA.

A music graduate of London’s Goldsmith’s College, Laurence Juber was a featured guitar soloist with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra before becoming established as a studio musician in the mid-1970s. First internationally recognized as lead guitarist in Beatle Paul McCartney’s Wings, with whom he won a Grammy, Juber has since established himself as world-renowned guitar virtuoso and entertainer.

The concert will be streamed, Saturday, June 13, 2020, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM PST.

Tickets are $15.99 plus a $2.60 service charge.

TICKETS>>

For more information please call 818-687-8559. 

Click here for more about Laurence Juber.  

**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.

How to maintain a pleasant atmosphere at home: 4 tips

Big changes start with small details. If you want to improve the atmosphere of your home, think about implementing some of these recommendations.

No need to spend a dime! A pleasant home atmosphere can prevent you from unpleasant things such as infidelity. Of course there are always ways to anticipate betrayal for example by using the application provided by http://smstrackers.com, but if we can avoid that with a few simple changes in our home, why not?

Creating a pleasant atmosphere at home can really change the rhythm of our lives. It’s important to feel comfortable in that space, which is where we spend most of our time. If you want to reach the home that transmits the best vibes, you should consider the advice we present here.

Home is a space where a person allows himself to be what he wants. When we arrived, we stayed away from the hustle and bustle, problems and worries that we had endured throughout the day.

However, to truly exploit this potential, some adjustments are needed. There are houses, rooms and spaces that produce greater stinginess and attract positive thoughts. How do they do it? Only a few decorative details are sufficient to achieve this effect. The best thing about the ideas that we will offer next is that they are simple. You don’t need a lot of money to create a pleasant atmosphere at home.

The way to create a pleasant atmosphere at home

1. Clean but not excessive

Here we will talk about two rather contradictory ideas. First of all, it is very convenient to enter the house in a clean condition. Seeing dirt or lying objects destroys feelings of harmony that you might feel upon arrival.

It’s not about spending hours cleaning, but small actions that allow you to keep it clean. For example, cleaning the floor one day, caring for another kitchen and going to the next window. However, we also don’t have to do extreme cleaning. We mean, if you leave everything very clean and tidy all the time, you can make the impression that the house is uninhabited, desolate.

2. Good lighting and ventilation

They are two elemental aspects. Arriving at your house and smelling confinement will not contribute to your relaxation. Therefore, always try to leave the window open so that air gets in. Of course, you also have to open as much as possible while at home. On the other hand, a well-lit house is synonymous with vitality. Nobody likes caves; they are actually the natural antonyms of what you need to maintain a pleasant atmosphere at home. Of course, what we mean is natural light. In addition to the warmth and harmony it brings, it will also allow you to take care of your little pocket for the cost of electricity.

3. Choose the right color

If you have the possibility to choose the color of the rooms in your home, try to do it thoroughly. Many people who rent don’t have this possibility and will kill to do it. Did you know that the color of space greatly affects people? For example, warm colors enhance tranquility, purity, and intellectual work. On the other hand, the most striking ones – like red and orange – evoke creativity, enthusiasm, and energy. Consider the benefits of each color according to the activities you do in each room of the house. In the long run, you will see the effect on your mood.

4. Harmonize the bedroom

The room is everyone’s par excellence room. This is the corner of our break up in the world, or at least it should be. There are a number of recommendations that you can follow to turn your room into a peaceful and relaxing place:

– Maintain orders: You don’t need to clean every day, but it’s a good idea to spend a few minutes removing clothes and everything that has been thrown away. This will send a lot of visual harmony and will give you a feeling of satisfaction when entering.
– Use soft colors for walls, beds and curtains.
– Add rugs and pillows.
– If you like scents, you can use essences to give the environment a unique touch.
– Post photos that bring you beautiful memories.

Meet Jessica Lynn-Johnson

I first met Jessica Lynn-Johnson several years ago when I began reviewing solo shows at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks.

The Solofest that Bryan Rasmussen, Whitefire’s Artistic Director, and Jessica have developed at the theatre has since emerged the second largest in the US, second only the the NY Solofest.  This year they had more than 80 shows in 60 days, which is pretty incredible if you think about it.  Although the final week or so was sadly interrupted by the Virus, they have managed to host many of those that were unable to perform for live audiences, online, as a streaming solofest.

Jessica hosts a FREE solo workshop most Saturday mornings at The Whitefire, now also online and many of her students have created and honed their shows under her gifted and most importantly, her highly supportive and gentle guidance. 

I love solo shows, and for those of you that read my reviews, you probably already know this!!  At their best they can be like the most life changing and intimate conversation you have ever had with a total stranger. And even at their worst they are always a gift, a beautiful and courageously artful glimpse into another persons aching soul. 

I have always been fascinated by how creative people find their way to their place in the world, their purpose.  Jessica has made a particularly unique space for herself, one in which she can continue developing her own creativity, while she helps so many find theirs.

Now more than ever we need art.  We need theatre and music and paintings and poetry and films and beautiful words to heal us.  Supporting those amongst us who quite literally ‘do the work’ is really a no brainer. 

I had a million questions for Jessica, but here are just a few.
 

How did you become a theatre producer and why did you focus on solo performance? 

The title I like to use is Director and Developer of Solo Theatre, meaning that I direct solo shows as well as collaboratively develop the creative content and solo theatre career trajectory of the solo artists I am blessed to work with. I began my own career as a solo artist right out of college when I moved to New York City in 2004 with my first solo show OBLIVIOUS TO EVERYONE. Early on, I saw master solo artist Sarah Jones on Broadway with her one woman show “BRIDGE & TUNNEL,” produced by Meryl Streep, and fell in love with solo theatre. After moving to Los Angeles in 2009, I went on to create my second solo show “ZE,” and after touring internationally for over a decade, I began being asked to teach and direct solo theatre to other artists. I now wear the hat of full time Director and Developer of solo theatre. More information about my services and various solo projects can be found on my website www.JessicaLynnJohnson.com 

What sets solo work apart from other forms of theatre and performance art? 

The ability to use only your own vessel to tell a complete story featuring multiple characters, various points of view, and allow your audience to forget that they are watching just one person on stage is pure magic. Touring for over a decade as a solo artist caused me to cultivate a thick skin, a unique artistic voice, and a sense of empowerment and self love that only this genre can provide. My passion is helping others use their solo shows to find this creative power for themselves. It is a very unique genre indeed and that is why I have created well over 70 videos on my YouTube Channel jampacked with useful tips, tricks and meditation writing prompt excercises to help solo artists on their path. Check out this free content here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYMlY66LsE1B7n8mHOlLDrA/playlists 

How has the solo community made a place for itself? 

It seems that now, more than ever before, people recognize the healing power of telling their own story and listening to the stories of others. With all of the issues and differences we face in the world, this genre uniquely helps us heal old wounds, shift our perspective, re-educate one another, and empathize with experiences wildly different than our own. I have enjoyed the expansion of the Soaring Solo community over the years with over 850 members and still going strong! While it is a solo show, no artist should go on this journey alone. It takes a creative community to do this work with full support. That is why I have continued to teach my 100% FREE, 100% AWESOME solo theatre class for a decade. More information about my free class can be found here: https://www.jessicalynnjohnson.com/free-one-person-play-class/ 

What have you learned from helping create their shows?

I have learned that unfortunately most people, at their core, do not believe they have a story worth telling and even if they do believe in the worthiness of their story, they still doubt that they are worthy enough in skill and substance to tell it.  Yet, they have this intuition that tells them that they are meant to create a solo show, and so they begin their solo journey with this inner conflict. That is where fear, self sabotage, perfectionism and a slew of other self-defeating things begin to step in. All to say, stepping into worthiness, empowerment, and freedom of creative expression are some of the greatest and unexpected gifts this genre provides if you can understand from the start that your inner demons will join you for this journey. The sooner you can recognize these unhelpful voices for the liars that they are and move forward in faith anyway, the sooner your solo show dreams can come true and the more healing that will become available to you during your creative process. So, it is this journey of healing this deep unworthiness and fear that I am honored to guide each solo artist through. Then together we discover the power of their story and their voice. So often, the misconception is that this work is about the final product, the solo show, but this work extends far deeper than that. In order to get solo artists out of their heads and into their hearts, I recommend meditation and visualization as a major part of the creative process. For my free videos of meditation and visualization, click here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzkygFb55JL7JqyDQWj3NoZGDnCigW0p-

What advice or recommendations do you have for anyone considering creating a solo show? 

Don’t wait for the “perfect time”, just start! Then take it one baby step at a time. It truly is a journey, so staying present to the task at hand is crucial in order to not become overwhelmed and give up along the way. For instance, when you are wearing your writer’s hat, don’t put on your actor hat prematurely and worry too much about how you will portray the character. This could psyche you out and alter your writing in a detrimental way. You can plan for the future to some degree, but if you focus too much on all of the steps ahead of you, it could creatively paralyze you. Therefore, stay in the present moment as often as you can during the process and trust that it will all come together in the end. Be sure to watch as much solo theatre as you can (even if only online!). Watching other solo artists perform is the best teacher out there. Whether you love or hate a show, you will learn more about your own aesthetic as an artist. I have an opportunity for aspiring solo artists to see a very talented solo artist Maeria Paez as part of BEST OF FEST livestreaming her award winning, rave reviewed one woman show MA’S KITCHEN from the Whitefire Theatre this Friday June 12th at 7pm (PST). More info and tix available here: https://www.jessicalynnjohnson.com/solo-events/livestream-of-mas-kitchen-in-best-of-fest-2020/

How has Covid 19 and the protest impacted your work and the work of those you guide? 

While these are very different incidents, the similar result that they have both produced in the community is a deep questioning of the relevance of art during such challenging times. While I honor and respect each individual’s response to both situations, I am always an advocate of the importance and relevance of Art, especially in times like these.  Therefore, I have consistently encouraged and reminded the Soaring Solo Community that every single person’s voice matters and every single person’s story is capable of creating necessary change and healing in our world. This is always the case, under every circumstance and most definitely when we are in crisis.

What’s next for you? 

Well, I never really stopped. I knew as the leader of the Soaring Solo Community, I needed to step up my game during all of the chaos so that we could stay united and supported as a creative community. There is so much divisiveness right now, and I wanted to fight against that within the solo community by encouraging us to join together in meaningful ways. Every week day at 9am (PST) of Stay at Home I have hosted a 100% free meditation and writing experience called Isolate Meditate Create via Zoom.  Link and more info available here: https://www.jessicalynnjohnson.com/workshops-events/isolate-meditate-create-a-100-free-daily-mediation-writing-event/

 I have moved my free Saturday solo theatre class onto Zoom as well, and I have been working with Bryan Rasmussen over at the Whitefire Theatre of Sherman Oaks to livestream solo shows at top quality to keep live theatre alive during this unprecedented time. The Soaring Solo community has stepped up to support one another’s Art and continue to create their own Art throughout all of the madness and I am so proud and so moved by their efforts. As a community we are hoping to move forward into Streamfest, a livestreaming solo festival, in the summer, followed by the Hollywood Fringe Festival in the Fall. 

You can find Jessica either online or at the Whitefire producing the streamfest.  Hopefully we will all be able to attend live events, but until then Jessica is doing all she can to keep the light shining and the shows streaming…and I for one will be eternally grateful.

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Jessica Lynn Johnson (Director and Developer) is a published playwright, recipient of BEST NATIONAL SOLO ARTIST AWARD, Board Member of the LA Women’s Theatre Festival, Director for Whitefire Theatre’s SOLOFEST, and Founder and CEO of Soaring Solo LLC. Jessica works as a full time Director and Developer of solo theatre having aided in the development of over 100 solo shows (and still going strong)! As a performer, Jessica has “edu-tained” international audiences touring her own 25 character one person shows “ZE” and “OBLIVIOUS TO EVERYONE” for over 15 years. Over the years, Jessica’s projects have taken home awards such as TOP OF FRINGE, HFF ENCORE PRODUCER AWARDS, TVOLUTION BEST SOLO PERFORMANCE, LARRY CORNWALL AWARD FOR MUSICAL EXCELLENCE and several other accolades! Jessica was nominated Female Director of Distinction in Theatre by Girl Trip LLC at the 2018 Hollywood Fringe Festival.  

Shakespeare’s Surprising Influence on Modern Culture

It’s more than 400 years since his death, and the works of William Shakespeare still have a strong impact on modern western culture. Perhaps more than any other artist from his period, Shakespeare’s works have stayed relevant enough to make their way into our language, politics, entertainment industry, and even the way we perceive history.

In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at how Shakespeare has influenced some of the less obvious facets of our culture.

Our Language

With his literary works, Shakespeare contributed around 1,700 words and phrases to the English language, including Green-Eyed (to describe jealousy), to Elbow (as a verb), Bloodsucking, and even the first recorded use of the word Anchovy in written English.

There is some debate about whether many of these words were already in common usage, and Shakespeare was simply the first to write them down. However, we do know that the Bard took artistic license with the English language, changing nouns into verbs, combining two words into one, and adding additional suffixes or prefixes in search of the perfect word to fit the scene.

Historical Revision

Shakespeare is responsible for the elevation of certain historical characters through is works, the most famous being Cleopatra. 

Considered somewhat of a historical side note before Shakespeare’s Anthony and Cleopatra, the titular character was so elevated in the public consciousness that she would go on to have 17 films made about her, including one of the most expensive films of all time, a range of beauty cream, soap, and lotions, thousands of art pieces, and even a set of free Cleopatra slots from Casino Smash.

All of this despite the most memorable details of her life, such as being killed by the venom of an asp, bathing in milk, and much of the detail around her relationships with Ceasar and Anthony being made up by Shakespeare to make his play more interesting.

While Cleopatra gets the glamorous end of the stick, Richard III is slightly less fortunate. The image of the twisted and evil monarch with his hunched back was so fixed in our cultural idea of the man that people were shocked that, when his remains were found beneath a Leicester car park, that he was a fairly standard shape, not the monster Shakespeare portrayed.

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Politics

Shakespeare’s works are unashamedly political, with plays like Othello, Hamlet, and Macbeth still being held up as masterclasses in how to tell a gripping political story. Perhaps because of this, many political leaders from around the globe have been inspired by Shakespeare.

Despite growing up nearly 6,000 miles from Britain, Nelson Mandela was hugely fond of Shakespeare’s works and kept a volume of them with him during his incarceration, often reading from it to groups of other inmates.

John Adams and Thomas Jefferson both visited Shakespeare’s grave in Stratford, and there is even a statue of the Bard in New York’s Central Park, which was erected after the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

One of the few surviving examples of Shakespeare’s is in a manuscript for a play called The Book of Sir Thomas More. In this collaborative work, Shakespeare contributes more than 147 lines of a handwritten monologue calling for mercy and kindness on behalf of an immigrant population, a speech that is as relevant now as it was then.

Other Media

Such is the draw of Shakespeare that his works are often translated into other media. Verdi loved Shakespeare’s plays, and Macbeth, Otello, and Falstaff are considered three of his best operas.

Romeo and Juliet has become one of the most translated works in human history, having started as a play, and then being adapted into a ballet, a song by Taylor Swift, the basis for West Side Story, and a celebrated Baz Luhrmann film.

Famous actors have always clamored to play the lead in Shakespeare adaptations, with names like Sir Ian McKellen, Laurence Olivier, Orson Welles, and John Gielgud attached to the more famous renditions of his plays.

With Shakespeare’s works continuing to inspire many art forms, there is no doubt that they will also continue to have a significant influence on our cultural roadmap going into the future.

Les Nubians’ “Princesses Nubiennes”

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We’re Listening to Les Nubians (since 1998).

When Apple Music takes over and starts shuffling random songs from years of your music collection, you get lots of musical treats. Each song has a memory, a feeling. Walking the streets of NoHo trying to clear the mind, “Princess Nubienne” from Les Nubians came on. It made me stop, take a deep breath and let the tears of joy fall. This CD, with my Sony Discman, was my European escape music during the early 2000s. Walking through the streets of Rome, Naples, Paris, Barcelona, Santorini, I was always accompanied by the melodic voices of Chad-French sisters Hélène and Célia Faussart guiding me along. The LP is smooth, jazzy, with soft-strong blends of pop beats and just a groovy R&B feel that makes you body roll.

What songs bring you back to a happy time? Find them and put them on repeat!

Here are my favorites.

“Princess Nubienne”

“Makeda”

“Tabou” – an ode to Sade.

Let’s say lots of positive thoughts to the universe that, once the COVID19 mayhem ceases, Hélène and Célia will come to L.A. In the meantime, follow them on their socials:

FACEBOOK  | INSTAGRAM

Keep making music that moves us… even if it’s in our pajamas.