It is “spooky season” and nobody can resist a good ghost story this time of year, especially one that recently caught the attention of a group of fashionistas. STAAR Theatre at Antoinette Hall is situated in a town square on the margins of Nashville in Pulaski, Tennessee, USA. Antoinette Hall is the oldest surviving opera house in Tennessee and one of the oldest in the United States…and also one of the most haunted. The theatre has hosted many fine traveling entertainers, local productions and other events over the years. After a massive fire destroyed most of the town of Pulaski in the 1800s, a local man named Mr. Angenol Cox announced that he would be constructing a grand hall on the east side of the square replacing a large portion of the burned area. Named after Mr. Cox’s wife, Antoinette Hall opened on Christmas of 1868.
Reports from the current opera house executive director, Tammy Pierchoski, show that groups and individuals have experienced cold spots, disembodied voices, shadow figures, equipment interaction, EVP’s, footsteps, batteries being drained, people have been made physically sick to the point of vomiting, people have been scratched, black mist seen, a piano playing on its own, smells of flowers, the feeling of your energy being drained, feelings of being watched and being touched by unseen hands.
When fashion designer, Tess Mann, with Tess Mann Haute Couture and Couture by Tess caught wind of these ghostly stories, she immediately wanted to plan a hauntingly romantic photo shoot to bring awareness to Antoinette Hall’s current restoration project. The two-story Second Empire building is owned by Southern Tennessee Area Arts Repertory (STAAR), a 501c3 nonprofit. The Antoinette Hall Preservation Society, a STAAR companion organization, has launched a major fundraising effort, which supports an extensive stabilization and restoration project. The ultimate goal is to have the STAAR Theatre serve as a regional multicultural arts center.
During the planning process of this photo shoot production, Ukraine was devastated by the invasion of their beloved country. The styling team felt the right thing to do was show support for their country and use several beautiful Ukrainian wedding dress designs in the photoshoot.
The architectural project to restore Antoinette Hall is estimated at $12-15 million dollars in order to preserve its historic beauty and regain its function as a performing arts center. Fashion designer and bridal gown store owner, Tess Mann, has committed to donate $100 from every purchase of her Couture By Tess trademark label, and 5% of her boutique’s sales from selected bridal gowns sold such as Randy Fenoli Bridal and Robert Bullock Bride. This donation period begins January 1, 2023 and will run through December 31, 2024.
One thing’s for certain, the spirits that haunt Antoinette Hall like their home. Would be a pity to have a bunch of homeless ghosts running around Pulaski, Tennessee, haunting the community. The philanthropic efforts of this creative team never ends.
Barrett Dennison of El Osito Films in Pulaski shoots Halloween bridal story via 360 MAGAZINE.
Photo Shoot Team Credits
Venue: Staar Theatre at Antoinette Hall
Creative Direction and Gown Retailer: Tess Mann/Couture by Tess Bridal
Gown Designers: Armonia and Ida Torez of Pollardi Fashion Group
2022 has proven to be nothing short of a significant and eventful year. Overcoming the summer months, 360 reviews, and highlights the main news of the month of October. Below are the top news stories for the beginning of the autumn month!
Putin has again threatened a third world war if Ukraine joins NATO
Deputy Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Alexander Venediktov, has announced that Ukraine’s admission to NATO could lead to a third world war. “Kyiv is well aware that such a step would mean a guaranteed escalation into a third world war,” Venediktov said, according to TASS.
Ukrainian President Zelensky declared an offer for fast-track entry into the NATO military alliance in late September after Putin held a ceremony in Moscow to proclaim the four illegally annexed regions.
Five killed in shooting in North Carolina
Five people have died in a shooting in Raleigh, a residential area of North Carolina, in the United States. Two others have been injured. The author of the shots, a young man dressed in camouflage who was carrying a rifle, has been arrested. The suspect hid in a house but has finally been arrested. Witnesses portray the shooter as a teenager dressed in camouflage clothing. At the moment the cause for which he fired is unknown.
Chaos in France due to lack of fuel
The shortage of gasoline at service stations is causing numerous problems in France. The workers of the French refineries remain firm and warn that they will continue with the strike despite the fact that the Government has activated this Wednesday, October 12, the intervention of some plants so that they supply fuel to the gas stations. France’s objective is to alleviate the shortage of gasoline at service stations, something that is causing several problems.
The main suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, accused of several sexual crimes
Christian Brückner, 45, the main suspect in Madeleine McCann‘s disappearance, has been charged by German prosecutors with numerous sexual offenses he allegedly committed in Portugal between December 28, 2000, and June 11, 2017. Two years ago, the German police already announced that they were investigating Brückner in connection with the disappearance of the British minor in her vacation apartment in Praia da Luz in May 2007.
The Braunschweig prosecutors have issued a statement this Tuesday, October 11: “The accused (of various sexual crimes) is the same person against whom charges were brought in connection with the disappearance of the British girl, then three years old, Madeleine Beth McCann Specifically, he is charged with three crimes of aggravated rape and two crimes of child sexual abuse.”
The ‘killer nurse’ killed babies by injecting them with insulin
Lucy Letby, 32, better known as the ‘killer nurse’, is on trial for the murders of seven babies and the attempted murder of ten more babies. The nurse worked at the hospital in Chester (England) where a significant number of deaths of healthy newborns was experienced, something that raised suspicion among those responsible for the hospital. Investigators found out that she injected newborns with insulin. At this time, the ‘angel of death’ tearfully guarantees not to have touched a syringe.
Lizzo responds to Kanye West’s fatphobic comments during his concert in Toronto
Lizzo has been the latest focus of Kanye West‘s criticism. The American rapper, who has been involved in various controversies for several weeks, took advantage of his interview with Tucker Carlson to talk about his brand of sneakers and express his opinion about Lizzo’s body.
The artist is recognized for her great lunch for the inclusion and acceptance of the diversity of bodies, she has not remained silent and has wanted to defend against fatphobia. You can see Lizzo’s response to Kayne West HERE.
Selena Gomez announces a new song with the premiere of her documentary ‘My Mind and Me’
On the occasion of Mental Health Day (October 10), Selena shared the official trailer for this very special film. In it, we see the images that introduce us to the vital episodes that this documentary will investigate: her childhood, her illness, and her musical career, among others.
The single can be heard in the official trailer that the singer has shared HERE. The documentary My Mind & Me premieres on November 4 on AppleTV+.
Russia launches an air strike against Kyiv in response to the “attack” on the Kerch bridge
Several explosions have shaken the morning of October 10 in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv, as confirmed by the authorities. It is the first air attack in Kyiv in two months and a significant number of victims is expected.
Similarly, Ukraine has denounced a new bombing of Zaporizhia, where there is at least one death in residential buildings. These attacks are Russian President Putin‘s response to the attack on the Kerch Bridge, one of the main connecting routes between Russia and Crimea.
UPDATE
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asks the population of Kyiv not to leave the bunkers and resist. Zelensky on Telegram: “The anti-aircraft alarm does not stop throughout Ukraine. There are missile strikes. Unfortunately, there are deaths and injuries. I ask you: do not leave the shelters.”
Putin’s revenge for the explosion in Crimea: the moment they bomb a bridge in Kyiv. Putin consummated his revenge in the last few hours after the explosion of the Crimean bridge. Russian forces have launched a barrage of missiles on eleven cities, including Lviv, Zaporizhia, and Nicolaiev.
The author of the massacre in the kindergarten in Thailand, a former police officer, kills his family and commits suicide
Panya Khamrap, the former Thai police officer who has killed more than 30 people, including children, in his son’s nursery, has committed suicide after murdering his family. The former police officer was fired by the Thai government after being involved in a drug case. Panya Khamrap broke into his son’s nursery in Thailand early in the morning armed with bladed weapons and pistols and killed at least 35 people, 22 of them children and an eight-month pregnant woman.
New South Wales is flooded by heavy torrential rains
Torrential rains have inflicted heavy flooding in New South Wales, Australia. The Australian authorities continue with their message of prudence and caution to the citizenry as a result of the serious flooding that the storm has caused in the previous days. The Australian emergency services have had to respond to nearly 350 warnings and incidents, with a total of 21 rescues of isolated people in areas flooded by water.
Actor Chris Fountain suffers a stroke
Former English Coronation Street actor Chris Fountain has revealed he was left “talking like a little boy” after suffering a mini-stroke. After waking up in his house and talking ‘like a baby’. The actor spent five days in a London hospital. “I woke up one morning and knew something was wrong,” the actor confesses. “My mom called me and I couldn’t get my words out,” he explains. Chris now has to see a speech therapist to retrain his brain.
Supermodel Carmen Dell’Orefice’s posing causes a sensation
At 91 years old, Carmen Dell’Orefice is a clear example that age is just a number. The New York supermodel has worked on a photo shoot for New You magazine in which she has decided to pose topless. Carmen Dell’Orefice is shown lying on a bed wearing flesh-colored underwear and covering her chest with a wide white bedspread.
Police use Alexa device to solve the murder of two scientists
Camila Behrensen, 24, and Pablo Guzman, 25, were found dead in their apartment. The two were shot and their house burned down, near the biomedical research center where they worked. The Kansas City (Missouri) police have used the Amazon Alexa device in search of clues that will lead them to determine the murder of the two young people.
Investigations have found that they were killed with a firearm and later burned. The detectives in charge of the case believe that the Alexa device could have captured the audio prior to the time of the crime, something that would make it easier to find the murderer of the scientists. In order to study the device located in the apartment, they needed a special permit that would allow them to reproduce the recordings.
Another girl dies detained in Iran after protesting the death of Mahsa Amini
The daughter of a former Iranian president was arrested for “provoking and inciting rioters” during demonstrations over the death of Mahsa Amini. The immense violence with which the protests in Iran are being contained leaves us with another victim.
They have killed again a 17-year-old girl, who went on stage to criticize the death of Mahsa Amini. Ten days later, the police authorities handed over her body to her parents. They also denounce that her body was stolen by those same authorities shortly before celebrating her funeral.
UPDATE
Nika Shakarami, a 17-year-old girl killed in Iran: they stole her body and buried it secretly
Nika Shakarami was a 17-year-old minor who died in protests over what happened to Mahsa Amini in Iran and has become an icon of the feminist struggle. The young woman’s family denounces that the young woman’s body was stolen and buried elsewhere, which caused protests in Khorramabad.
South Korea and the US respond to Kim Jong-un by launching several missiles into the sea and one crashes into a military base
Fear of a great war is growing in the world. While the threats from Vladimir Putin and the Russian invasion of Ukraine continue to increase war tension on an international scale, also raising fears of an offensive with nuclear weapons, now it is North Korea that has sounded the alarm after launching a missile that flew over Japan. North Korea met with a response from the US and South Korea, which have also launched deterrent missiles in a drill. One of them has crashed in a South Korean base.
A 28-year-old man was convicted of raping and impregnating his 15-year-old sister in Yacuiba, Bolivia
The aggressor identified as Juan C.L.R has been sentenced for the crime of serious rape through a trial placed in the First Sentencing Court of Yacuiba (Bolivia) after he himself was accredited as guilty of raping and impregnating his 15-year-old sister. After determining the seriousness of the crime, the judges issued the maximum codeine (30 years) to the man.
Elon Musk sparks controversy with his proposal on how to end the war in Ukraine
Businessman and investor Elon Musk has sparked controversy with a proposal to end the war in Ukraine. In the tycoon’s peace proposal, Ukraine should cede Crimea (the European peninsula and territory between Russia and Ukraine) to the Russian country. Several European politicians, including President Volodymyr Zelensky, have responded to the owner of Tesla. Zelensky reacted to the Tesla CEO’s proposals by posting his own poll on Twitter in which he asks, “Which Elon Musk do you prefer? – The one who supports Ukraine – The one who supports Russia»
The dangerous arrest of a man accused of kidnapping in Florida: he used his son as a shield
Brandon Leohner (27) has been arrested for trying to kidnap his own son, just one year old, in Florida, United States. The body cameras of the local police show the danger that was experienced during the arrest: Brandon used the baby to protect himself.
The officers had to yell at him multiple times: “’Put the kid down, put the baby down,’ but Brandon Leohner continued to use his son as a human shield after forcing him out of his girlfriend’s house. One of the officers attacked him even though he was carrying the child. Finally, the young man is arrested and accused of kidnapping and using a minor as a shield in addition to resisting authority and reckless driving.
Youth gangs shake Madrid, Spain
Shots, machetes, and knives. Youth gangs have gone from controlling neighborhoods to getting fully involved in violent robberies, drug trafficking, prostitution, and credit card cloning. The first weekend of October, criminal groups were in the news with two young people killed in the south of Madrid. The members of these gangs, many of them imported from Latin America, sign up many minors who fall into this kind of family.
Revolt of prisoners in a prison in Ecuador ends with 15 dead, among them the well-known narco ‘El Patron’
Violence shakes the Latacunga prison in Ecuador. The revolt resulted in twenty wounded and 15 dead. It is the provisional balance of the confrontation between two rival bands. In the last two years, Ecuadorian prisons have become the main scene of these bloody clashes.
During the brawl between prisoners, some of them tried to escape from the prison. Once outside, they did not get very far and were arrested. Finally, the police managed to enter and take control. They pacified the war unleashed in the prison that also ended with the life of the main narco in Ecuador, Leandro Moreno, known as El Patron.
Panic in Japan: North Korea launches a ballistic missile and Japanese authorities ask their citizens to take refuge
The Japanese Ministry of Defense has warned that North Korea has launched a ballistic missile that would have fallen into the Pacific Ocean, flying over Japan, a fact that has not happened since 2017. The Japanese authorities have asked citizens to protect themselves and hide underground or, failing that, not leave their homes. North Korea maintains that it is a military test. It is the fifth such launch in the last ten days.
In search and capture Marina Ovsyannikova, the journalist who protested live against the Russian invasion
The Russian authorities have communicated a search and arrest warrant against the journalist Marina Ovsyannikova, based on the alleged violation of the Penal Code. In March she interrupted a live program to protest the Russian invasion of Ukraine and was under house arrest for her stance against her in the Kremlin, the residence of the Moscow government.
Hurricane ‘Orlene’ approaches Mexico with a strong storm of rains, wind, and storm surges
Orlene strengthened to Category 4 the first weekend of October as it neared the west coast of Mexico, where it is about to make landfall with very high winds, torrential rains, and storm surges. The approach of the hurricane is causing torrential rains in the western regions of Nayarit and Jalisco, and intense not only on the western coast of Mexico but also in Colima and southern Sinaloa.
The National Meteorological Service (SMN) has issued alerts to protect the population in the tourist cities of San Blas and Mazatlan, where school classes and other activities have been suspended. It is expected that there will be gusts of air that reach 220 km/h.
A young Russian rapper commits suicide to avoid going to war
“I will not kill mine,” says Ivan Petunin. The story of the young Russian rapper shocked the entire country. The singer has decided to take his own life to avoid having to go to war. Ivan Petunin, 27, was recorded explaining the drastic decision he had made: “If you are watching this video, then I am no longer alive. I cannot take the sin of murder on my soul, I do not want to do it, I will not kill mine for any ideal”, he begins explaining.
“My final decision is exactly how I am going to die. I choose to stay forever in history, as someone who has not supported what is happening and make one last protest”, he points out. Finally, Ivan Petunin’s body was found dead near a building in Krasnodar, Russia.
Tragedy on a football field in Indonesia: 125 dead, including 17 children, due to riots
125 people have died on the Indonesian island of Java following riots at the Kanjuruhan stadium following a football match. The security forces responded quickly with the use of tear gas that caused a huge human stampede in the stadium. At first, the figure increased to 174 deaths, but later 129 victims were found.
The chief inspector general of the East Java Police, Nico Afinta, has reported that the protests broke out after the defeat of Arema FC against their opponent. The fans of the losing team jumped onto the playing field with the purpose of complaining about the result.
Ukraine invasion: Would Vladimir Putin press the nuclear button?
Russian President Putin goes one step further in his defiance. The notices have jumped in NATO after the mobilization by Russia of the Belgorod submarine. It is believed that it is to test the Poseidon nuclear missile, one of the deadliest for humanity. Putin is increasingly cornered and the threat of nuclear attack is once again in the spotlight. Some allies of Vladimir Putin bet on the nuclear attack and put pressure on the Russian president in order to activate the nuclear button.
Lula da Silva wins the elections in Brazil although he will face Jair Bolsonaro in the second round
da Silva and Bolsonaro will face each other in a second round of the presidential elections, because neither candidate has exceeded 50 percent of the votes in this first round that took place this Sunday, September 2 in Brazil. With 97.07 percent of the votes counted, da Silva, leader of the Workers’ Party, has become the winner of the first round, obtaining 7.88 percent of the votes. Meanwhile, the current president and leader of the Liberal Party, Bolsonaro, has achieved 43.68 percent, according to data released by the Supreme Electoral Tribunal. The official date to know the name of the new president of Brazil will be October 30.
HBO’s Real Sports With Bryant Gumbel introduces Casey Brown
HBO’sREAL SPORTS WITH BRYANT GUMBEL returns for an all-new episode on TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 (10:00-11:00 p.m. ET/PT). The series is available on HBO and to stream on HBO Max.
Casey Brown is not your typical world-class athlete. Growing up with her family completely isolated from the outside world in the New Zealand bush, Casey followed in her older brother Sam’s footsteps, becoming a professional mountain biker. While developing into one of the most accomplished bikers in the world, and pushing for opportunities for female riders, Casey’s had to cope with heartbreaking tragedy.
Double platinum winning Swiss artist Börni is back with her third single this year called “Overdose.” After releasing the power singles “I’m Alive” and “Ghost,” Börni’s third single “Overdose” will now be released on September 23, 2022.
It is interesting that we always want what is no longer good for us in an overdose. Börni sings in the song “Overdose” about how she would be better off not giving in to what she wants. The song is about a relationship. But Börni clearly says that you have to consciously find the right measure in everything you do and want in order to be happy. For the music video, which will be released in October 2022, she got a Swiss choreographer and TikTok star in the lead role. Get your own dose of this synth-pop tune this Friday.
Queen Elizabeth II of England dies at the age of 96
On Thursday, September 8, Queen Elizabeth II died at 96, while under the supervision of doctors at Balmoral (1926-2022). According to Buckingham Palace, he will assume the sovereign title of King Charles III, and his wife, Camilla, will be known as Queen Consort.
In England, all the alarms have been raised by the state of health of Queen Elizabeth II. Buckingham Palace has released a statement in which it ensures that the doctors who treat the 96-year-old sovereign have been seen this Thursday (September 8) “concerned” about her state of health and have recommended that she remain under supervision medical.
The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon. The monarch passed away this Thursday, September 8, at her summer residence at Balmoral Castle, in Scotland, sheltered by her entire family close to her. Her son Prince Charles succeeds her as the king of England. The British heir, 73, assumes the throne under the name of Carlos III after the death of his mother. All flags in the UK will be flown halfway through the ten days of national mourning leading up to the funeral.
Queen Elizabeth II has reigned for 70 years, breaking all her records and celebrating her Platinum Jubilee last February.
UPDATE
Historic farewell to Queen Elizabeth II: Sep 19, 2022
The British capital is fully shielded by the presence of up to 500 heads of state and government. The coffin of Queen Elizabeth II is being transferred to the state arms carriage, which waits outside the north door of the building. It will be a short route to the abbey, crossing Parliament Square and New Palace Yard.
The United Kingdom says goodbye to Elizabeth II with a funeral that will go down in history. The British country will wake up tomorrow, September 20, in a new era after today ending the national mourning for the death of the monarch with a solemn state funeral at London’s Westminster Abbey, where Elizabeth II was crowned in 1953, followed by her burial at Windsor.
Kings and presidents: half the world attends the funeral of Elizabeth II in London: Sep 18, 2022
The impact, success, and transcendence of Queen Elizabeth II, who reigned for more than seven decades, is evidenced in the list of attendees at a funeral as was not seen in London. Hundreds of world leaders and monarchs will attend the monarch’s state funeral in London on Monday, September 19, which will be one of the largest diplomatic meetings in decades and will have Westminster Abbey as its epicenter. Although there is no “official” list of guests, invitations have been sent to those countries with which the United Kingdom has diplomatic relations to pay their respects to Elizabeth II.
The eight grandchildren of Elizabeth II watch over her coffin in Westminster Hall: Sep 17, 2022
The eight grandchildren of Elizabeth II, led by Prince William and his brother Harry, watched over the remains of their grandmother for 15 minutes this Saturday in the burning chapel installed in the Palace of Westminster. Additionally, King Charles III and Prince William paid a surprise visit to the long queue of people patiently waiting to pass the coffin of the late Queen Elizabeth II. They shook hands and said thanks in the mile-long queue near Lambeth Bridge.
Access to the queue for the burning chapel is temporarily closed: Sep 16, 2022
The British Government has announced that for the next six hours no one will be able to queue to enter the funeral chapel of Queen Elizabeth II at the Palace of Westminster after it has reached almost 8 kilometers. With waiting times estimated at about 14 hours, the authorities had already warned of this probability due to the saturation in Southwark Park. The Government has encouraged citizens not to try to join the queue until its reopening is formally notified.
The queue to fire the monarch exceeds five kilometers: Sep 15, 2022
Endless queue throughout the night to say goodbye to Queen Elizabeth II in London. Thousands of people serenely wait their turn to enter the Palace of Westminster and pay their respects to Queen Elizabeth II. The queue exceeds five kilometers and it is expected that over the days it will reach up to eight. The body of Elizabeth II arrived at Westminster after a funeral procession from Buckingham Palace. The funeral chapel has been open to the public for more than twelve hours and will remain open until 6:30 a.m. on Monday, September 19, hours before the state funeral begins, which will be attended by numerous leaders from around the world.
The big surprise among the guest list is the presence of Olena Zelenska, the wife of the President of Ukraine. She will attend the monarch’s funeral.
30-hour queues to bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth II at the Palace of Westminster: Sep 14, 2022
The remains of the monarch rest in Buckingham Palace (London), where they arrive around nine o’clock at night on Monday, September 13. There, they are being veiled in privacy. In the afternoon today, the coffin will be transferred to the Palace of Westminster where the funeral chapel will be installed so that the British people and tourists can pay their respects, just as they did in Edinburgh. People who attend will have to stand in line for up to 30 hours to say goodbye to their queen.
The remains of Queen Elizabeth II arrive at St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh: Sep 13, 2022
The cathedral of St. Giles, in Edinburgh, covers at this time a religious service in memory of the monarch. Her mortal remains have arrived there in a retinue that has slowly crossed the center of the Scottish and her children have led on foot: King Charles III, Anne, Andrew, and Edward.
Although thousands of people have already left their messages and flowers since last Thursday, September 8, at the residences of the Royal Family, this afternoon, September 12, the funeral chapel of Elizabeth II opens to the public.
How much do you have to pay to visit the grave of Queen Elizabeth II?
Windsor Castle, which was the final scene of the state funeral and burial of the monarch, is scheduled to reopen to the public on Thursday, September 29. A territory that will become practically a pilgrimage place for all who want to see the grave of Elizabeth II. In this way, the price to visit it will be 26.50 pounds.
Rapper Coolio, author of ‘Gangsta’s Paradise,’ dies at 59
Coolio, the Grammy-winning rapper whose biggest hit was ‘Gangstar’s Paradise‘, died on Wednesday, September 28 at the age of 59. The singer was visiting a friend in Los Angeles and went to the bathroom but did not come out, as reported by TMZ. When the friend went to check on Coolio, he found him unconscious on the ground, according to the aforementioned diary. The singer’s manager has said paramedics believe he died of cardiac arrest.
19 dead and 27 injured in an explosion at an institute in Kabul, Afghanistan
19 people have died and another 27 have been injured as a result of an explosion in an educational center in the Afghan city of Kabul, according to police sources. The victims attacked in the center of Kabul “were taking the entrance exam,” reports the Afghan Interior Ministry. “Attacks against civilian targets that demonstrate the brutality of the enemy are strongly condemned,” added the police spokesman.
Shakira is on trial again for alleged tax fraud, Spain
The judge of Esplugues de Llobregat (Barcelona) who manages the controversial case of tax fraud that weighs on Shakira has issued the order for the opening of oral proceedings on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, which means that the Barcelona Court will date sooner the start of the hearings that, if resolved against her, could mean a sentence of eight years and two months in prison for the Colombian singer, in addition to the payment of a fine greater than 23 million euros.
Hurricane Ian causes a trail of destruction and “catastrophic flooding” as it passes through Florida
Hurricane Ian as it passes through Florida is leaving a path of historic flooding and destruction, the worst storms in years, say those who live there. Houses turned into submarines, roofs were torn off by the wind and even firefighters are suffering the devastating consequences of Hurricane Ian. “The storm surges, the winds, and the floods are catastrophic,” as said by the National Hurricane Center (CNH). After unloading its full force, it continues its progress through that state, albeit with less power.
UPDATE
17 people die from the passage of Hurricane ‘Ian’ in Florida
The president of the United States, Joe Biden, has announced that ‘Ian’ could be the “deadliest” hurricane in the history of the state of Florida, which has already been declared and recognized as a catastrophic area.
The Nord Stream gas leak is causing an environmental disaster in the Baltic Sea
The smoky pool of methane gas in the Baltic Sea, the result of alleged sabotage of the Nord Stream gas pipelines, is threatening to trigger an environmental disaster, as environmental organizations and scientific experts have already begun to warn.
Methane is considered a key chemical and emitter of greenhouse gases, so the scientific community strives and works to make some kind of prediction about the effects of the triple leak in Nord Stream 1 and Nord Stream 2.
Total blackout in Cuba due to hurricane ‘Ian’, which leaves two dead before heading towards Florida
After Hurricane Ian passed through Cuba, where it left several damages, two deaths, and the island in total darkness, it is now advancing towards the state of Florida. And she does it with more and more force. It could cause strong winds of up to 270 kilometers per hour and catastrophic flooding. Two and a half million people have been ordered to leave their homes. The time to get to safety is running out.
Ian has left two people dead in Cuba. In addition, the island has suffered a national blackout due to a breakdown in the electrical system due to Hurricane ‘Ian’ on the island, according to local authorities.
Actor Alec Baldwin could sit in the dock for the murder of Halyna Hutchins
The state of New Mexico (United States) intends to open proceedings to put American actor Alec Baldwin and three other people in the dock for the murder of Halyna Hutchins. For this, they have approved a budget item of 317.99 dollars so that the Prosecutor’s Office can present the charges.
During the filming of Rust, a firearm accident killed the director of photography and injured the film’s director, Joel Souza. After an investigation at the hands of the FBI, last August, it was shown that Alec Baldwin would have pulled the trigger against Halyna.
A plane runs off the runway with 159 passengers on board at Tocumen airport, Panama
Moments of fear and panic at the Tocumen International Airport, in Panama, after a plane (Boeing 737-800NG) with more than 150 passengers on board, left the runway amid the strong gusts of wind and rain that are shaking the country, driven by the displacement of Ian, a category 2 hurricane on its way to Florida and Cuba.
Karla Pardini, the tiktoker murdered near her home in Mexico: they called her and asked her to come out
Karla Pardini, a famous ‘tiktoker’ from Mexico, has been shot to death after receiving a phone call from a person who asked her to leave her house. The 21-year-old girl was ambushed near her residence in Culiacán on September 20. The Attorney General of the State of Sinaloa investigates and explores the crime. No one has been detained so far, according to reports.
Pardini was found dead at an intersection, at the intersection of Catédraticos and Ignacio López Rayón streets, in the Tierra Blanca neighborhood. Several testimonies claim to have seen a group of armed individuals wandering around the area before they killed the young woman.
The queue of almost 50 hours to leave Russia: the exodus by road of those who refuse to go to war
The military mobilization of the Russian population to fight in the war in Ukraine has caused border crossings to collapse. Faced with the impossibility of demonstrating due to the obstacles involved and the exhausted flights, more and more citizens are desperately trying to leave the country by road. Waiting for lines to leave Russian soil can reach around 50 hours.
Rihanna confirms her return to the stage: it will be in the Super Bowl
Rihanna will be the star of the halftime show of the next NFL Super Bowl, which will be held on February 12, 2023, in Glendale (Arizona, USA). The artist communicated this Sunday (September 25) on her Instagram account, where she has 135 million followers, an image without the text in which her hand appeared holding an NFL ball. Later, the league said in a statement that Rihanna will perform at the Super Bowl intermission.
“Rihanna is a generational talent, a woman of humble beginnings who has exceeded expectations at every turn. A person born on the small island of Barbados who became one of the most prominent artists ever,” said rapper Jay-Z, who produces the Super Bowl show for the NFL through his company Roc Nation.
Thirteen dead, seven of them children, and dozens injured in a shooting at a Russian school
A gunman has opened fire at a school in the Russian city of Izhevsk, according to the Russian government news agency TASS. The attacker would have killed 13 people, seven of them children, and injured several people. According to the Russian Interior Ministry, the shooter would have committed suicide. The police would have found the attacker dead when he entered the school.
UPDATE
A former student dressed in Nazi symbology, author of the Russian school shooting in which 17 people have died
The death toll in the armed attack has risen to 17, as confirmed by the authorities, who have deepened that among the fatalities there are 11 minors and six adults. In addition, there are 24 wounded, 22 of them minors.
Argentina: A teenager confesses by message to have murdered her 5-year-old brother: “Mom, I killed him”
A 13-year-old teenager has admitted to having murdered her brother, a 5-year-old boy, in the town of Arroyo Seco, Argentina. The events occurred last Monday, September 19, around eight in the afternoon, when the mother of the minors, Roxana, who went to study at school at night, received a message from her daughter: “Mom, I killed him”, the young woman wrote. Faced with the horrible message, the mother raised the alarm and asked the child’s father to go check what was happening.
”The Woman King” Sets Up For Huge Box Office Run After Insanely Strong Opening Weekend, US
“The Woman King” is generating the kind of buzz — and ticket sales — that the box office desperately needs. Packed with drama, story, and action, “The Woman King” about a regiment of female warriors grossed $19 million at the domestic box office during its opening weekend, topping the $12 million Sony had forecast.
The film “opened at the high end of our expectations and appears poised for a very healthy movie run thanks to strong word of mouth,” said Shawn Robbins, chief analyst at BoxOffice.com. ”The Woman King” stars Viola Davis as a general who trains the next generation of warriors to fight against her enemies.
The trial of Amber Heard and Johnny Depp already has a movie. It premieres on September 30, 2022
The MarVista Entertainment studio has set to work this summer to bring this trial to the small screen, shooting against the clock to achieve a good result. And they have succeeded, because it already has an official release date for next September 30 of this year. The TV Movie will be titled Hot Take: The Depp/Heard Trial; and will focus on the defamation case between the two performers that ended with Amber Heard being sentenced to pay her ex-husband 10.4 million dollars in damages. And the road to it was anything but easy. Something that will surely hook those who did not follow the trial day by day.
Spain, European champion after beating France in the Eurobasket
Sergio Scariolo’s basketball team beat the French 88-76 and won the team’s fourth Eurobasket. The Spanish team won its fourth continental title this Sunday, September 18, in Berlin by defeating France in the Eurobasket final by a score of 88-76. Apart from being the fourth European gold medal, the Spanish team has six silver medals to its credit, which it won in 1935, 1973, 1983, 1999, 2003, and 2007. The last one was at the Eurobasket held in Spain, where the national team fell in the final against Russia.
Puerto Rico is devastated by Hurricane Fiona, tries to restore power
More than 3 million people were left without electricity in Puerto Rico and caused “catastrophic flooding” this Sunday, September 18, after passing through the destruction caused throughout the country. Landslides, fallen trees, collapsed structures, and blocked roads have left the passage of Hurricane Fiona, which caused a general blackout. The governor of Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisi, has stated that the island’s authorities are gradually repairing the power supply.
The President of the United States, Joe Biden, has declared a state of emergency in Puerto Rico and has organized the release of federal resources for Emergency aid.
Controversy in Iran over the death of a 21-year-old girl detained by the Moral Police for wearing the wrong veil
This Saturday, September 17, the 21-year-old Mahsa Amini has been buried, she has died from the serious injuries suffered after being arrested last Tuesday by the Greater Tehran Morale Police, allegedly for not wearing the veil properly. The young woman was transferred to a hospital already in a coma the day of her arrest after “suffering a heart attack”, according to the police version, and she finally died on Friday due to the severity of her injuries.
Hundreds of people attended Amini’s funeral in her hometown, Aychi, in the Saghez region of Iran. Family members, friends, and neighbors as well as authorities from the Saghez region have been at the event. This case would have caused spontaneous protests on Friday, September 16. Pictures and videos have been posted on social networks of people chanting phrases such as “Death to the dictator!” at Tehran’s Kasri Hospital where Amini died.
Exhume the first corpses from mass graves in Izyum (Ukraine)
The Ukrainian authorities have reported that so far around 60 bodies have been exhumed from a mass grave found in the town of Izyum, located in the Kharkiv region, after the withdrawal of Russian troops from the area. The head of the Kharkiv Regional Military Administration, Oleg Sinegubov, informed through a message on his Telegram account of the progress in the exhumation work. “Police experts in the Kharkiv region have exhumed 59 bodies in Izium today.”
“The bodies of 16 men and 26 women, civilians, will be handed over for further analysis,” before saying that among the exhumed bodies there are 17 soldiers. “As experts point out, most show signs of a violent death, ” Sinegubov said.
Iran admitted to Shanghai Cooperation Organization
For Iran to be admitted to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), the Iranian Foreign Minister, Hossein Amir Abdollahian, and the Secretary-General, Zhang Ming, signed the memorandum of commitment as a member of the association at the summit of the Organization Shanghai Cooperation Conference being held in Samarkand. “From now on we have entered a new phase in various economic, trade, transit, and energy cooperations,” Abdollahian mentioned.
Volodymyr Zelensky suffers a traffic accident in Kyiv
The President of Ukraine, Volodimir Zelensky, was involved this Thursday, September 15, early in the morning in a traffic accident in Kyiv when he was returning from the city of Izium, although he was not injured. This has been communicated by the Ukrainian president’s spokesman, Sergei Nikiforov, who has circumstantiated in a statement on Facebook that a vehicle has crashed into the presidential escort.
French film director Jean-Luc Godard dies by assisted suicide in Switzerland
Jean-Luc Godard died “peacefully, at home” in Switzerland on September 13 at the age of 91, his relatives expressed through a statement and announced that there will be no official funeral and that he will be cremated.
Godard’s legal adviser, Patrick Jeanneret, told the AFP news agency that the filmmaker died by assisted suicide. He “turned to legal aid in Switzerland for a voluntary departure as he was affected by ‘multiple disabling illnesses,’ according to the medical report.” Assisted dying is legal in Switzerland under certain circumstances.
The future of Sweden, in the hands of the anti-immigration leader
The Social Democrats of Prime Minister Magdalena Andersson of Sweden were the most voted in the Swedish legislative elections with 30.5% of the vote. In addition, Jimmie Åkesson, leader of the nationalist and anti-immigration Sweden Democrats (SD) party, has become the second political force in the country with a historic 20.6% of the vote.
The rapper PnB Rock, was shot dead to rob him in Los Angeles
Mourning in the world of rap. Rapper PnB Rock has been shot to death while he was eating at a Los Angeles restaurant on Monday, September 12. The artist was interrupted by a man who approached the table at Roscoe’s House of Chicken ‘N Waffles and asked for the jewelry he was wearing. Given his refusal, he shot him several times in front of his partner, who was eating with the rapper.
Emmy Awards 2022: ‘Succession’, ‘The White Lotus’ and ‘Ted Lasso’, The winners of the ceremony
The 74th edition of the 2022 Emmy Awards was held this past Monday, September 12, and the stars of the small screen wore their best clothes on a magical night, in which emotion and humor were not lacking either. The ceremony took place in Los Angeles, United States, and the big winner was ‘Succession‘, which with 25 nominations in the category of best drama series, took away from the South Korean ‘The Squid Game‘ the chance to become the first no -English-speaking production to win the prize. Plus, ‘Ted Lasso‘ won the best comedy series category for the second successive year, and ‘The White Lotus‘ won the best miniseries.
Carlos Alcaraz is already the king of tennis: the youngest number one in history wins the US Open
Carlos Alcaraz becomes the youngest number one in history by winning the US Open. The Spanish tennis player won this Sunday, September 11, in four sets (6-4, 2-6, 7-6, and 6-3) against the Norwegian Casper Ruud in the final of the US Open, the last ‘Grand Slam’ of the season.
The victory that allows the Spaniard to lift his first ‘Grande’ and climb to number one in the ranking, being the youngest tennis player to achieve it in all of history at 19 years old.
Al Qaeda publishes a book with details about the planning of the 9/11 attacks against the Pentagon and the Twin Towers
Work of Abu Mohamed al Masri: The 250-page book would be the work of Abu Mohamed al Masri, a senior official of the terrorist and jihadist organization who died in 2020 in Iran. He relates that the attacks began to be prepared when they managed to settle in Afghanistan, in 1996, and that they wanted to drag the United States into a long war of attrition and ruin.
Click HERE for more information about the 9/11 attacks.
A person claims to have seen Melissa Highsmith, a woman who disappeared 51 years ago as a baby, United States
Melissa disappeared when she was just 21 months old. It is believed that a woman posing as a nanny took her away. 51 years later, a person claims to have seen her in Charleston, South Carolina (United States). In the third week of September, a person contacted the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). He claimed and guaranteed to have seen Melissa Highsmith in Charleston.
Hell in Kharkov: a Russian attack on the thermal power plant leaves four regions of Ukraine without electricity
A Russian attack on the Kharkiv power plant has left several points in the center and east of the country without water and electricity. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Putin of causing a full payout when the Ukrainian military was making great strides.
So far in September, he would have reconquered 3,000 square kilometers from the Russian troops. The Ukrainian cities of Izium, Lyman, and Kupiansk are already in the hands of Kyiv.
Justin Bieber cancels the rest of his American tour due to health problems
Justin Bieber (28 years old, Canada) announced this Tuesday (August 6) that he will not continue with his Justice World Tour because he has returned to his health problems linked to Ramsay Hunt syndrome, which paralyzes part of his face. “Earlier this year, I made public my battle with the syndrome, for which my face was partially paralyzed,” the Canadian singer said on social networks, who said he must pause because his health is “a priority right now,” the artist says.
Justin Bieber postpones his US tour as he battles facial paralysis. The European tour, which starts in January, is still on.
Instagram receives a millionaire fine for the mismanagement of personal data of adolescents in Ireland
400 million dollars is the amount that the social media platform must pay. Facebook Ireland allowed users between the ages of 13 and 17 to open accounts on Instagram, with the posting of the underage user’s email address or phone numbers open to all users. In addition, Facebook Ireland operated a user registration system for the Instagram service whereby minors’ accounts were set to “public” by default, thereby also making adolescent content public, unless the account was set up differently and changed to “private”.
Liz Truss succeeds Boris Johnson as UK Prime Minister
The United Kingdom already has a new British minister: Liz Truss will replace Boris Johnson after defeating Rishi Sunak in the conservative ‘primaries’. She also takes command of the country at a time marked by different crises: the economic one derived from the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the internal crisis after the fall of her boss (Boris Johnson), and the political one, with the ravages of Brexit.
Multiple people were killed in stabbings in Saskatchewan, Canada
At least 15 wounded and 10 dead is the provisional balance of the attack carried out by two individuals in two towns in the province of Saskatchewan, Canada. The main indications suggest that some victims could have been attacked at random and that the two suspects are in hiding. The agents were looking last night (September 4) for those responsible for the attack, whose mobile phone number is unknown.
A major accident at an attraction in India leaves 16 injured
A serious accident at an attraction in Mohali, India, has left at least 16 injured. The rotating Ferris wheel collapsed after a brake failure and crashed to the ground with all passengers on board. The hypothesis is the technical failure of the brakes precisely at the moment in which the Ferris wheel was turning at the highest speed.
7 policemen die in a trap in Colombia
At least seven police officers have died and one of them has been seriously injured this Friday (September 2) in an attack in a rural area of San Luis, in the Department of Huila, in western Colombia, considered the largest attack registered in the country since Gustavo Petro came to power.
It is not clear for now the reasons for the attack or which group is behind it. Although when they appeared they were attacked with rifle bursts and explosives.
New York ‘prepares’ for the number of sharks sighted off its coast
The large number of sharks that come to the waters near New York (USA) is a reality that the locals must begin to get used to. There have been various reports of swimmers and surfers being bitten. In fact, the beaches of Rockaway, a neighborhood in Queens, have been closed to the bathroom twice during the past month of July after the sighting of sharks from the coast.
The Rings of Power: Premiere of the first two chapters on Amazon Prime
This Friday (September 2), Amazon launches the first chapter of the new series inspired by the Tolkien Universe and whose first two episodes are directed by Juan Antonio Bayona. The streaming platform produces a new installment of the saga made up of eight chapters. Every Friday a new chapter will be broadcast.
When is Rings of Power released in the US? The eight-part series debuts on September 1 at 9:00 p.m. m. ET, with episodes one and two airing one after the other.
Michael O’Leary, the executive director of Ryanair: “The rates will rise from 40 to 50 euros, but the low cost is not dead”
For the airline, Ryanair, it’s been a bittersweet summer. Since June they have had strikes by their cabin crew in several European countries, including the United Kingdom and Spain. Linked to this is an inflationary context that is making flying more expensive.
Despite this increase, Ryanair’s CEO emphasizes that “low cost is not dead”. “What we will not see anymore are tickets at 9.99 euros, but that does not mean that low cost is going to end,” said the executive director, Michael O’Leary.
Putin will not attend Gorbachev’s funeral because “his job does not allow it”
The last leader of the Soviet Union will have a state funeral like that of his successor in office, Boris Yeltsin.
Putin will not go to the funeral of the last leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev, who died on August 30, because his work schedule does not allow it. “We know that the farewell ceremony will take place on September 3, and also the funeral, but unfortunately the president’s work schedule will not allow him to attend on September 3, so he decided to do it today,” he said. Dimitri Peskov (Putin‘s spokesman). The Russian leader said goodbye yesterday, September 1, to the first president of the Soviet Union at the Central Clinical Hospital in Moscow (Russia), before flying to Kaliningrad.
As we surpass the midway point of 2022, it’s safe to say this year has been nothing short of earth-shaking. From the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the landmark ruling in Roe v. Wade, to the devastating number of mass shootings that have struck the United States, 2022 has been full of alarming headlines. Let’s take a look at some of the most prominent stories for the month of July.
Heatwaves in Europe
Recently, many countries in Europe, such as Britain, Italy, France, Spain, Germany have experienced unusually high temperatures, with local highs reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), which caused numerous wildfires.
Forest fires also broke out in many parts of Italy. One of the fires threatened to cut power and water to parts of the northeastern city of Trieste.
Meanwhile, the homes in Winnington, England were also damaged by the local fire. Some residents say they lost everything in the fire.
Scientists warn that extreme heat is exacerbated by climate change, making heat waves more intense and frequent and that the dry weather is likely to fuel wildfires.
Shinzo Abe dies from two gunshots
On July 8th, former Japanese prime minister Shinzo Abe suffered a terrorist attack while giving a speech in Nara city. Although Shinzo Abe had been hospitalized soon after being shot, the local fire department reported that he stopped cardiopulmonary function immediately after falling to the ground.
The incident occurred at around 11:30 a.m. local time as Abe made a speech in front of about 30 people near a subway station in Nara city, where he was campaigning for a liberal Democratic Party candidate in the upper house election. An unidentified man shot Abe from his back around 3 meters away. The Nara fire department said Abe lost consciousness, breath, and heartbeat after falling to the ground. Sixty-seven years old Abe was taken by helicopter to a hospital for emergency treatment and declared dead at 5:03 p.m. local time. The Japan Fire and Disaster Management Agency later confirmed that Abe was shot in the left chest and the right side of the neck.
The suspect was arrested at the scene. According to Japanese media reports, the suspect is a man called Tetsuya Yamagami, 41 years old, a resident of Nara. He confessed to killing Abe with his homemade weapon and holding a grudge against a specific religious group. According to Tetsuya Yanagami, he attacked Abe in the end because his original target, one of the leaders of that group, was not there, and Abe was tied to that religious group.
At the end of June, US President Joe Biden signed a gun safety bill, almost one month following the catastrophic Uvalde elementary school massing shooting. The bill entails granting “groups [the ability] to petition courts to remove weapons from people deemed a threat to themselves or others.”
Other details of the bill include halting individuals that have been convicted of domestic abuse to own a gun, as well as increasing background checks on individuals from the ages of 18-to-21-years-old pursuing to purchase a gun.
Jayland Walker murdered in police shooting
25-year-old Jayland Walker was shot dead in a car/foot pursuit after he was stopped by police officers for traffic and equipment violations in Akron, Ohio. Recent video footage from the bodycams of officers involved in the pursuit and on the scene have just been released, and protests have undergone seeking justice surrounding the confrontation.
The chase began when Walker left the scene of a traffic stop on June 27. In the video footage release to the public, narration speaks that “a sound consistent with a gunshot can be heard,” with officers thinking that the noise came from Walker’s car.
After officers continued to pursue Walker, he stopped his car and began to run, while tasers were used to attempt to halt him. Akron Police Chief Stephen Mylett stated that after this, Walker “stopped and quickly turned towards the pursuing officers.” Walker was shot then, pronounced dead at the scene, unarmed.
While the shooting is under investigation, it has been revealed that a medical examiner found that Walker endured around 60 gunshot injuries from officers. Protests have undergone since Walker was killed, continuing to raise more awareness to the scarce gun control in the United States.
9 dead amongst weekend of Chicago shootings
Amidst the holiday weekend of the 4th of July, an array of shootings took place in Chicago, Illinois. A fatal shootout took place on the evening of July 1, and more shootings continued throughout the weekend. The devastating array of shootings left 9 dead and around 57 people suffering gunshot injuries.
Highland Park Fourth of July parade shooting leaves at least 6 dead
A gunman disrupted the Highland Park Fourth of July parade in Illinois this Independence Day. The shooting left an estimated 6 people dead with other two dozen suffering injuries from the catastrophe. The suspected gunman is allegedly a white man between the age of 18- to 20-years-old, and has not been identified yet.
Ukraine news : the latest Russian invasion update
Russia claims to have destroyed a mercenary deployment point in Mykolaiv. Russian Defense Ministry spokesman, Igor Konashenkov, said in his morning war report that the Russian Aerospace Forces attacked this place with high-precision weapons.
Player Brittney Griner’s desperate letter of help to Joe Biden
The WNBA player has been detained in Russia since February and she is accused of carrying cartridges with hashish oil when she was going to take a plane and could face a sentence of 10 years in prison. Brittney wrote to the president of the United States, Joe Biden, and asked for his help to get out of the Russian prison and return to her home as soon as possible.
Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker break the silence on the recent hospitalization of the drummer of Blink 182
The couple wanted to post their opinions about Barker‘s recent hospitalization on their verified social media accounts. “I went in for an endoscopy Monday feeling great,” Barker posted in a note posted on her Instagram stories. “But after dinner, I developed excruciating pain and have been hospitalized ever since.”
Travis explained that during his endoscopy, he had “a very small polyp removed right in a very sensitive area, usually handled by specialists, which unfortunately damaged a critical pancreatic drainage tube.” “This resulted in severe pancreatitis that was life-threatening,” he added. “I am very, very grateful that with the intensive treatment I am now much better.”
Copenhagen: At least 3 dead and several injured in a mass shooting in a shopping mall that occurred this Sunday in Denmark
Prime Minister, Mette Frederiksen, assured that the authorities continue to investigate what happened. “Denmark was hit by a cruel attack on Sunday night. Several were killed. Even more were injured,” she said.
What is known about the attacker? A 22-year-old man was arrested in connection with the attack. On the morning of this Monday (July 4th), the Danish capital’s police chief, Soeren Thomassen, declared that his department does not believe that the attack was a terrorist event and assured that the suspect has a history of mental health problems.
Egypt: closes its beaches in the Red Sea due to a series of shark attacks
The Egyptian authorities closed several beaches on the Red Sea coast due to the death of two tourists due to different shark attacks. The regional governor said one of the victims was a 68-year-old Austrian woman whose arm was ripped off by a shark while she was swimming near the city of Hurghada.
It is rare for sharks to attack people in the Red Sea, but this year, there have been several incidents involving tourists.
British Airways cancels more than 1,000 summer flights from Gatwick and Heathrow
BA will cancel more than 1,000 additional flights this summer from Gatwick and Heathrow as staff shortages continue to affect its operations. More than 100,000 travelers planning to visit popular holiday destinations such as Spain or Portugal will be affected, although British Airways will mainly reduce routes with multiple daily departures.
Puerto Rican singer Ricky Martin breaks his silence after being denounced for domestic violence
Through a statement shared on Twitter, Ricky Martin assures that the accusations are “completely false” and that he will face the process responsibly. As it is a case under the Law for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the Puerto Rico police have not revealed the name of the complainant.
As it is a case under the Law for the Prevention of Domestic Violence, the Puerto Rico police have not revealed the name of the complainant. In this way, his identity has been the subject of numerous speculations. As stated by the Puerto Rican newspaper El Vocero, the order indicates that Ricky Martin and the person who has denounced him were together for seven months and separated two years ago.
The measure aims to “address the current situation with extraordinary means and powers, with relief interventions and assistance to the affected population and restore the functionality of public and strategic services and strategic network infrastructures”, the Italian Government has revealed in a statement picked up by the transalpine press.
Australia’s largest city, Sydney, is affected by flooding
The floods in Sydney affect more than 30,000 inhabitants. Besides, mountainous seas and wild weather along the New South Wales coast thwarted plans to salvage a wrecked cargo ship with 21 crew members. Emergency crews carried out 100 rescues overnight Tuesday of people trapped in cars on flooded roads or in flooded houses in the Sydney area, State Emergency Service manager Ashley Sullivan said.
According to the local authorities, the incident happened shortly after midnight when a group of men armed with rifles and 9-millimeter pistols entered the bar. They shooted at the customers, causing 12 people dead at the scene and 2 more were cleared dead after being sent to the hospital. Police said that the suspects are still on the run.
Days of torrential rain have caused waterways to overflow and dams to overflow, producing a fourth flood emergency in 16 months in parts of the city of 5 million people.
Thor: Love and Thunder
On July 8 we will be able to enjoy the latest film in the Marvel Saga, directed by Taika Waititi with Chris Hemsworth again in the skin of the Asgardian, the return of Natalie Portman as Jane Foster and Christian Bale playing the villain Gorr, the Butcher of the Gods.
We are facing one of the biggest events of the summer, and many fanatics of the Marvel Cinematic Universe are eager to know how many surprises they will discover within it. Who knows! Perhaps there is not room for so many, at least if we look at the supposed length of the film that would have been leaked by some of the American theater chains, and that would leave us with the shortest Marvel movie since 2018. Are you ready to watch it? Coming soon in cinemas.
UK government crisis
The mismanagement of the scandals of the celebrations in the Coronavirus pandemic and in the ranks of his party knocked down the prime minister. On Wednesday, Boris Johnson continued to fight to stay in power as prime minister, in turn sacking cabinet minister Michael Gove after his government was rocked by a wave of ministerial resignations.
In a statement to Parliament on Wednesday, Sajid Javid, a British Conservative Party politician, said after his resignation that “the problem starts from the top and that is not going to change.”
10-year-old rape victim travels across state lines to undergo abortion
One of the most shocking and prominent stories that broke the internet amidst the US Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade involves a 10-year-old rape victim. The young girl was refused the ability to have an abortion in her home state of Ohio. While she was six weeks and three days pregnant, this exceeded the ban in Ohio to perform an abortion at six weeks.
In Ohio, a child abuse doctor referred the victim to an obstetrician-gynecologist in Indiana to perform the procedure. She then traveled to undergo the practice, where the abortion ban had not been implemented. The Supreme Court’s decision shifted the rules on abortions in Ohio, where previously abortions were not banned until later in a pregnancy.
James Caan dies at the age of 82
James Caan, the actor who played Sonny Corleone in The Godfather has died. The American actor died on the night of July 6, as reported by his relatives on Twitter. “The family appreciates the love and condolences and asks that their privacy continue to be respected at this difficult time.”
Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug charges in Russia
WNBA Phoenix Mercury star Brittney Griner has been stuck in Russia since February of 2022. Griner was at the Sheremetyevo International Airport when officials found small units of hashish oil in her belongings. Once discovered, she was taken into custody immediately, facing up to 10 years in prison in Russia for “large-scale transportation of drugs,” though her cartridge contained less than one gram of the marijuana concentrate.
Amongst the travesty, Griner appeared in trial this month with images of her handcuffed being posted all over social media. She has pleaded guilty to her charges, seemingly in hopes of returning to the US quicker. Griner sent a handwritten letter to the President of the US Joe Biden expressing her concern and fear for her freedom. Segments of the heart wrenching letter were released to the media by Griner’s representatives.
“As I sit here in a Russian prison, alone with my thoughts and without the protection of my wife, family, friends, Olympic jersey, or any accomplishments, I’m terrified I might be here forever,” Griner expressed.
She continued to the president, stating, “I realize you are dealing with so much, but please don’t forget about me and the other American Detainees. Please do all you can to bring us home. I voted for the first time in 2020 and I voted for you. I believe in you. I still have so much good to do with my freedom that you can help restore. I miss my wife! I miss my family! I miss my teammates! It kills me to know they are suffering so much right now. I am grateful for whatever you can do at this moment to get me home.”
With no way to measure how long Griner could be held in Russia, her teammates and supporters have taken a stand to urge for her release. As a Black, LGBTQ WNBA player, many have questioned the treatment of Griner. Her coach presented this point, stating, “If it was LeBron, he’d be home, right? […] It’s a statement about the value of women. It’s a statement about the value of a Black person. It’s a statement about the value of a gay person.”
The chain (Vkusno i Tochka) that replaces McDonald’s in Russia runs out of fries due to the sanctions for the war in Ukraine
Vkusno i Tochka (Delicious and Point), the fast food chain that took over McDonald’s restaurants in Russia in June is now facing a growing shortage of French fries due to Western sanctions against the Russian capital, according to RBK TV reported.
Balenciaga showcases celebrity models at Paris Fashion Week
Kim Kardashian, Dua Lipa, Naomi Campbell, Nicole Kidman become the stars of the Balenciaga fashion show.
Balenciaga’s Fall 2022 Couture Collection fashion show transformed celebrities into the best ambassadors of the firm. Paris has become the center of fashion in recent days, because of Haute Couture Week. The great opportunity has brought together the most recognized faces in the sector, and amazing everyone with one of the most surprising Balenciaga fashion shows to date.
Kim Kardashian, the brand’s muse, melted into a striking black dress. She showed off the same color Naomi wore, but with a more voluminous design. Dua Lipa dazzled in a yellow one-shoulder dress, while Nicole triumphed in a mopped, long, metallic design.
The stars were able to parade through the impressive Balenciaga salons wearing the latest haute couture collection from the house, becoming the protagonists of the event and fashion week in the Parisian city. In this new Balenciaga collection, a common thread between the technological future and the past was seen, where a tribute was made to the work of the founder of the house. “It starts in the future and then sinks into the past, in the Infanta dresses that later became the origin of the house,” said Balenciaga designer and creative director Demna Gvasalia.
These uncovered faces, some of them world-famous, contrasted with the mannequins whose faces the creative director of the ‘Maison’ wanted to cover with black enameled polyurethane helmets, made by the Mercedes design team that made it impossible to identify those who they paraded
During these days, we have also been able to enjoy the designs of other major brands such as Chanel, Giorgio Armani, or Christian Dior. Although without hesitation, Balenciaga has overseen shaking up the ‘fashion’ universe at fashion week in Paris.
Oprah Winfrey’s father, Vernon Winfrey, passes away
At 89 years-old, Vernon Winfrey passed away after battling cancer. His daughter, Oprah Winfrey, released a statement via Instagram, where she stated, “Yesterday with family surrounding his bedside I had the sacred honor of witnessing the man responsible for my life, take his last breath, […] We could feel Peace enter the room at his passing.”
Big Brother 24 premieres
The 24th season of CBS’ Big Brother premiered on July 6 with an all-new cast. 16 contestants entered the Big Brother house, where they’re in for a summer full of game play, strategy, and challenges, all while making life-transforming memories. Who will conquer the competition and take home the $750,000 prize? We can’t wait to see!
Ukraine: 15 killed and 24 trapped by Russian missile
On July 10, a Russian missile hit eastern Ukraine and destroyed part of an apartment building, killing at least 15 people and making 24 buried beneath the debris.
“The search and rescue operation continues,” according to Pavlo Kyrylenko, the governor of Donetsk Oblast, “We have more proof of Russia’s crimes, that they shell residential areas of any community, whether it’s close to the front lines or not.”
Ukraine has accused Russia of launching a bunch of missiles to its cities in recent weeks, targeting civilians. Even though Russia denied the accusation, the army kept attacking population centers like Mariupol, Kharkiv and Severodonetsk.
South Africa: Mass shooting kills at least 15 at a bar
At least 15 people died from a shooting in the South African township of Soweto on June 10, and several people were injured.
According to the local authorities, the incident happened shortly after midnight when a group of men armed with rifles and 9-millimeter pistols entered the bar. They shooted at the customers, causing 12 people dead at the scene and 2 more were cleared dead after being sent to the hospital. Police said that the suspects are still on the run.
France will deport any foreigner who has committed a serious crime
Under current French regulations, anyone who arrived in France before the age of 13 cannot be expelled. Although, the French government is studying the possibility of facilitating the expulsion from the country of “any foreigner who has committed serious acts”, lifting the age restrictions in this regard, according to Gérald Darmanin, the Minister of the Interior.
The Euro against the Dollar
The European currency reaches its lowest level in 20 years against the dollar. The euro and the dollar, both currencies, have been less than a cent from reaching exactly the same value, when the euro hovered around $1,007 last Monday, down almost 15% since the start of the year. This has been caused by different serious reasons. While the fear in the markets of an economic recession in Europe increases, in a context of growing uncertainty about the continuity in the supply of Russian gas and high inflation.
Brad Pitt’s Bullet Train to premiere in August
August 3 marks the date for the release of all-new film Bullet Train. Directed by David Leitch, Brad Pitt stars as Ladybug, an unlucky assassin determined to do his job peacefully after one too many gigs gone off the rails. Fate, however, may have other plans, as Ladybug’s latest mission puts him on a collision course with lethal adversaries from around the globe—all with connected, yet conflicting, objectives—on the world’s fastest train.
The Bachelorette 19 premieres with two leads
ABC’s The Bachelorette promised to be another one of the “most shocking seasons ever” when they named two women as the lead(s) of the popular reality dating series. After making it to the final three of Season 26 of The Bachelor, Gabby Windey and Rachel Recchia went through a shocking double breakup.
The pair was named the first set of double bachelorettes at the season finale of their original show. Season 19 of the show will now follow their journey to find love. Navigating how to date 30+ men side by side, the season premiered on July 11. Both Gabby and Rachel will travel the world dating a pool of men, hoping to leave engaged and in love!
US President Biden visits Israel and Saudi Arabia
US President Joe Biden made his tenth visit to Israel this summer. Many believe that at the forefront of Biden’s agenda was to tackle negotiations regarding oil production in Saudi Arabia. Others sincerely hoped Biden will tackle the issue of Iran gaining more nuclear weapons.
Uvalde elementary school shooting footage shows law enforcement lacking action
Footage from one of the deadliest mass shootings that the US has endured this year was released. Original video clips from the Robb Elementary School mass shooting that left 21 dead are lightly edited to eliminate identity and sounds of children screaming. The footage was published by the Austin American-Statesmen newspaper just days before family victims were scheduled to watch the footage.
The video shows the gunman crashing a car before shooting at two individuals who responded to the accident. Continuing, footage shows the gunman entering the school carrying his weapon. After he enters the school, a child comes around the corner where he watches the gunman enter another classroom and open fire, to which he runs away in horror.
The most outraging element of the leaked footage reveals officers lack of response to the incident, though they arrived at the scene 77 minutes before shooting the gunman dead. The lack of action from the officers has enraged the community and nation on a widespread scale. Uvalde County Commissioner Ronald Garza stated, “They just didn’t act. They just didn’t move, […] I just don’t know what was going through those policemen’s minds that tragic day, but … there was just no action on their part.”
POLAND: The ashes of more than 7,000 victims of a Nazi extermination camp have been located
The Polish country lost 17% of its population during World War II. An excavation carried out at the site of the former Nazi extermination camp in Soldau, near the city of Dzialdowo, has uncovered 17 tons of ashes which, according to researchers, indicate that at least 7,000 people were cremated there.
The number of victims has been calculated according to the weight of the ashes, Karol Nawrocki, president of the Institute of Historical Memory, has expressed, since a human corpse corresponds to around two kilos of ashes.
Ivana Trump dies at 73
Ivana Trump dies at the age of 73, the first wife of Donald Trump and the former US president has announced it on his social network (Truth Social). The businesswoman was the mother of three of the former president’s children and she was crucial in building his real estate empire. They divorced in 1992, long before Donald Trump entered politics.
Ivana Trump passed away at her Manhattan apartment on July 14. This has been announced by Trump himself on the Truth Social network and who has not indicated the causes of her death.
Greenwood Park Mall shooting leaves four dead
A shooting broke out at the Greenwood Park Mall, in which a gunman killed three and injured two. The unidentified gunman was, too, shot dead by an armed 22-year-old man. Greenwood Police Chief Jim Ison released a statement about the catastrophic event, stating that, “This has shaken us to our core. This isn’t something that we have seen here in Greenwood before. It is absolutely horrendous and our thoughts and prayers are with those loved ones hurting tonight.”
UK undergoes record heatwave
As wildfires spread around Europe, the UK endured scorching, record-breaking temperatures. The UK’s previous leading temperature of 101.7 degrees in July 2019 was estimated to be exceeded on July 18 with predictions of 105 degrees. The heatwave sent the UK into a “Level 4” heat warning which can be defined as a “national emergency.”
FRANCE: Shooting on a terrace of a bar in Paris
One person dead and four injured in a shooting with a Kalashnikov against the terrace of a bar in Paris. The events occurred around 21:30 pm on Popincourt Street. According to the Europe 1 channel, a “Kalashnikov-type” long weapon has been found. “Two individuals got out of a vehicle and shot two individuals sitting on the terrace of a bar,” specified the Paris police headquarters. The main hypothesis of the investigation is a reckoning.
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck marry in Las Vegas
Actor Ben Affleck and singer Jennifer Lopez got married this Saturday (July 16) in a small family ceremony in which the two children of the singer and her mother have been present. Jennifer Lopez has confirmed the news with a statement. “We did it. Love is beautiful. Love is kind. And it turns out that love is patient. 20-year patience.”
“Exactly what we wanted. Last night we flew to Las Vegas, queued for a license with four other couples, all making the same trip to the wedding capital of the world,” added the singer.
Japan: At Least 30 Endangered Green Sea Turtles Found With ‘Bleeding’ Neck Wounds
At least 30 endangered green sea turtles were found Thursday (July 19) with neck injuries near the remote island of Kumejima in southern Japan’s Okinawa prefecture. Police began investigating the case last Friday after the sea turtles were found at low tide. Some of these were barely breathing and others were bleeding. They had wounds around their necks caused by what appeared to be a blade.
US House passes bill that defends gay marriage rights
After the Supreme Court overturned the landmark decisioning in Roe v. Wade, Justice Clarence Thomas suggested that other milestone rulings needed to be looked at again, like Obergefell v. Hodges, the ruling that established gay marriage rights. In response to this, the US House of Representatives passed a bill that would ensure protection of equal marriage rights.
The bill passed by a vote of 267-157, and would ensure “federal protections for gay marriage and prohibits anyone from denying the validity of a marriage based on the race or sex of the couple.” Now, the bill will be reviewed and voted on by the Senate.
World Health Organization warns that global cases of COVID-19 have doubled in the last six weeks
Infections have reached their maximum peak in the first week of July. So the impact of omicron increased and created the seventh wave of the disease: From about three million weekly cases to six million currently, warned this Wednesday (July 2) the director general of the World Health Organization (WHO), Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
“An increase in cases means that there may be more hospitalizations and deaths in the coming weeks,” Tedros Adhanom mentioned at a press conference, noting that most of the current infections seem to belong to the omicron variant, “for now the most contagious known,” he added.
US President Biden tests positive for COVID-19
For the first time since the beginning of the pandemic, US President Joe Biden tested positive for COVID-19 on Thursday July 21. It was reported that he took Paxlovid for his symptoms which included a cough, runny nose and overall exhaustion.
Flight cancellations and delays in Germany due to Lufthansa strike
As the airline warned on its website this Monday (July 25) there will be delays and cancellations of flights in Germany due to the Lufthansa strikes this Wednesday (July 27). The warning strike will start at 3.45am and end at 6am this Thursday (July 28), the German Verdi union said in a statement. The German union orders a 9.5% salary increase for Lufthansa ground staff, with a minimum of 350 euros per month for one year.
Police officers in Mexico City seize 1.5 tons of cocaine bound for the West Coast of the US.
Mexican police seized 1.5 tons of cocaine headed for the west coast of the United States, Omar Garcia Harfuch, Secretary of Citizen Security, published on Tuesday (July 26), describing it as “the largest seizure of cocaine in the capital.” During a press conference, Omar commented that the cocaine has a value of up to US$20 million and added that after reaching its final destination it would be worth “almost twice as much, in Los Angeles.”
Red Hot Chilli Peppers announce new album: “Return of the dream canteen”
Kicking off their North American tour, the band have announced October 14 as the release date for their second studio album this year. “Return of the dream canteen” will be the second album after the band released “Unlimited love“. It will also be the second release produced by Rick Rubin.
Selena Gomez chose a Versace design with which she looked like a real princess on her 30th birthday
The actress welcomed her 30th birthday last Friday, July 22. She held a party for her birthday surrounded by family and friends. For this important occasion, the protagonist of her outfit was the elegant dress that she wore from the luxury brand Versace.
The dress is made in a pale peach tone with short sleeves and a delicate tulle that covered Selena’s bodice and neckline. Added to this are the transparent details from the height of the thigh to the end that dragged a few centimeters. To give her dress more prominence, the actress added some hoop earrings and tied her hair up in a high ponytail. There is no doubt that Selena Gomez chose an elegant ‘look’ to welcome her 30 years.
The Latin Grammy 2022 will be held on November 17 in Las Vegas
Another Nicaraguan opposition leader sentenced to 10 years in prison
In Masaya (Nicaragua), an opposition leader from the department of Masaya, Yubrank Suazo, was sentenced this Wednesday (July 27) to 10 years in prison for a crime committed in spreading false news and national integrity, the Nicaraguan Center reported on its social platforms. of Human Rights (Cenidh).
Nicki Minaj advances the release of her new song “Freaky Girl“
The musical return of the rapper after her motherhood is being as successful as we remembered. Nicki was for years the artist who released the most video clips and songs in a calendar year and this year she has returned to her origins by introducing what will be the fifth song of 2022. Its release will be on August 12 under the title of “Freaky Girl.”
Beyoncé releases new album RENAISSANCE
REINAISSANCE was released as Beyoncé’s latest studio album on Friday July 29. The album platforms the reignited dance genre infused with elements of disco, house, and pop music. The icon released the album’s first single “BREAK MY SOUL” earlier in the year, taking the industry by storm.
On July 5th, Creative Minds Talks, in collaboration with Miami Design District, proudly presents Mayor Francis X. Suarez in conversation with Ximena Caminos. Mayor Suarez and Caminos will discuss art, tech, NFTs, and the future of Miami in the Miami Design District.
Creative Minds Talks is a series of talks presented by Miami Design District featuring high-profile guests from the fashion, design, architecture, and art industries. The talks aim to pair two notable names from similar fields for a dialogue that serves to educate, inspire, entertain and promote creative fields of the cultural world.
Tickets are priced at $125; proceeds from all ticket sales will be donated to the Red Cross in support and solidarity with Ukraine.
Lighthouse Immersive is proud to announce it raised $250,000 to support Ukraine through Immersive Shevchenko: Soul of Ukraine showings in multiple North American cities. Emboldened to assist Ukraine with its ongoing crisis, Lighthouse Immersive, the producers of the Original Immersive Van Gogh, arranged to have an existing immersive exhibit celebrating the work of Ukrainian artist, poet, philosopher and public figure Taras Shevchenko brought to North America.
Premiering March 15 in Toronto, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Boston; April in Pittsburgh and Cleveland; ticket sales from Immersive Shevchenko directly supported First Theatrical Charitable Foundation, which focuses on humanitarian needs of Ukrainians with a specific focus on elderly arts and culture workers and other social priority groups who have been left without adequate support at this time and to the National Bank of Ukraine Fund.
In 2021, Ukraine-born Lighthouse Immersive Associate Producer Valeriy Kostyuk, working with a Ukraine-based team including Producer Natalia Delieva, Creative Director Tais Poda, Composer Timur Polyansky, and Curator-Consultant Dmytro Stus, developed and launched an immersive exhibit of Shevchenko’s work in Odesa. Kostyuk sought to apply the artistry and innovation that Lighthouse Immersive practiced with Vincent Van Gogh to one of Ukraine’s most beloved cultural figures. He was able to work with the National Museum of Taras Shevchenko in Kyiv to obtain access to their collection of paintings, resulting in a one-of-a-kind sensory experience that President Zelensky himself visited before the war began. Lighthouse Immersive worked with the Ukrainian producers in Kyiv and Odesa to bring the exhibit to North America so they can share Ukrainian art and culture with audiences abroad while raising funds for a righteous cause.
“I was happy to find a way to use my experiences producing in North America to promote Ukrainian artists,” comments Kostyuk. “Ukrainian culture is as beautiful and moving and important as the culture of any other country in the world, and Shevchenko is, in many ways, a father of the independent Ukrainian nation. I have been moved and inspired beyond words by the endurance and resilience of the Ukrainian people in this moment and I am deeply thankful to the incredible team in Ukraine who partnered with me on this project, as well as to the producers at Lighthouse Immersive for standing with me in this moment.”
The war continues in Ukraine as invading Russian forces continue to encounter fierce resistance. Amidst the bombardments and firefights, workers at the National Museum of Taras Shevchenko crate away valuable pieces of artwork in the exact same containers used to shield them from invading Nazi forces in 1941 to hide the valuable national artwork from the invading Russian Military forces as gunfire erupts just down the street. An artist, poet, writer and political activist of the mid-19th century, Shevchenko was known for expressing themes of Ukrainian oppression by the Russian government in his art.
“It was inspiring to see everyone come together to support the people of Ukraine and be able to donate to Ukrainian charities including the National Bank of Ukraine Fund, Ukrainian Red Cross Society, and First Theatrical Charitable Foundation,” says Lighthouse Immersive Producer Corey Ross.
Taras Shevchenko (March 9, 1814-March 10, 1861) is largely considered a cultural trailblazer of the independent Ukrainian nation. Born a serf, Shevchenko was freed in 1838 while a student at the St. Petersburg Academy of Art. A master of Ukrainian painting/graphic art and a spiritual leader, Shevchenko was the founder of critical realism and the folk element in Ukrainian fine arts. Shevchenko’s creative output primarily reflected the socio-political reality of the Ukrainian people of that period and largely expressed themes of Ukrainian oppression by the Russian government and calls for Ukrainian liberation.
About Lighthouse Immersive
Lighthouse Immersive creates, produces and distributes innovative digital immersive art experiences through its experiential entertainment multiplex digital art galleries, aiming to cultivate community and creativity through large-scale events and exhibitions of all art forms. Lighthouse Immersive offers versatile spaces for creators to present their work while engaging audiences in unique art experiences that encourage dialogue and inspire new artistic creations. Lighthouse Immersive has produced the world premiere of Immersive Van Gogh, Immersive Frida Kahlo and Immersive Klimt: Revolution to more than 21 North American cities. Recognized as the leader in immersive art experiences, Lighthouse Immersive custom-designs each of their venues, named Lighthouse ArtSpace, to distinctly envelop the various architectural settings they inhabit. It operates galleries in a range of historic venues including refurbished industrial and retail spaces. Since 2021, the company has opened or is opening 21 new galleries in North American cities including New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Boston and Denver, and is currently expanding into additional markets. To date, Lighthouse Immersive has sold 5 million tickets to Immersive Van Goghacross North America, with Artnet calling it “one of the largest coordinated art phenomena of all time.”
Yana Bystrova is a third-generation Ukrainian artist, born to create undeniably conceptual, enticing pieces of art. Having her body of work showcased in galleries around the world, Yana has continuously stunned audiences with her meticulous creations full of color, concept and mixed media.
No stranger to pouring her countries rich history into her designs, we now see Yana’s paintings amongst the traveling exhibition “Painting in Excess: Kyiv’s Art Revival, 1985 – 1993,” originally set to be showcased in her homeland of Ukraine.
Engulfed in the world of artistry since before she can remember, Yana often questions whether she had a choice on becoming an artist. Her professional ability has been evident from a young age; with Yana’s mother often telling a story about a painting she created in her adolescence. The piece, showcased at a children’s museum, was suddenly stolen from their home. Yana created the painting at the mere age of three years old.
Having doubted her position as an artist, Yana, too, experimented with differing professions before returning to her craft. She dabbled in design and programming, in which she gained mass success with. Nonetheless, she knew that the corporate environment did not suit her appropriately and went back to her original passion for creating art.
Amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine, Yana has been deeply affected by the destruction to her country. A daunting task, Yana spoke about the devastation she felt from hearing about the Russian invasion when stating, “It is horrible, I was in shock and very disoriented in the beginning [of the war].”
Yana’s thoughts pour into her work, evoking a new era of her works. She finds that her most recent paintings are a version of the distilled reality of the situation at hand. Each hue used in her art represents something deeper than the color wheel could ever encompass, it exemplifies the weight of Ukraine on Yana’s heart.
She often considers the conflict endured by everyone affected by the war; those who have fled and those who are still in the country. The situation at hand in Ukraine has had an everlasting affect on her personal and professional wellbeing.
“[It is] one thing is to be a tourist; another thing is to be a refugee.”
Her latest participation in the new exhibition “Painting in Excess: Kyiv’s Art Revival, 1985 – 1993” was organized a few years back, postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Held at the Coral Gables Museum through October of 2022, the showing was originally conceived by the Zimmerli Art Museum at Rutgers. The project embraces a life of its own, taking a new shape and meaning modernly with the tragedy occuring in Ukraine.
Yana utilizes delicate use of color to personify her artistry, creating new narratives. In the way that verbal communication only accounts for a small portion of human interaction, Yana attributes color to bridging these gaps and expressing what cannot be stated in words. Often investigating new mediums for her artistry, Yana carefully crafts art that is theoretical and impactful.
Amongst her upcoming exhibitions, Yana has a New York residency opening on June 3. Entitled “Yana Bystrova: Approaching a Chaotic Reality,” the showing will be held at Gallery Arte Azulejo. A gallery walk will be sported on June 16 as well.
Inching further towards the mid-way point of the year, 2022 has been full of a surplus of notable events. From the continuing Russian invasion of Ukraine to Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson’s confirmation upon the Supreme Court, let’s evaluate the top stories of May 2022.
New Mexico Endures Wildfires
Two Hermits Peak/Calf Canyon fires reportedly united, impacting Northern New Mexico. Firefighters worked to contain the blaze, but the force of the combined fire swiftly surpassed professionals forecasting. No one has been hurt or killed by the fires, but two deaths did occur from a previous wildfire during the month of April.
Mississippi Mudbug Festival Shooting
Several gunmen opened fire at the Mudbug Festival in Jackson, Mississippi leaving one person killed and five injured. The individual that was killed is presumed to be one of the shooters, shot in response to the shooting by law enforcement.
Regarding the tragedy, Hinds County Sheriff Tyree Jones stated the following, “It’s very devastating and very tragic, […] This is what’s to be considered a very family-oriented event, where families come to enjoy entertainment and food. You have individuals with no regards for the lives and safety of those attending the event. I think that is a very cowardly and selfish act to involve so many innocent people that are here to have fun and enjoy themselves.”
Nancy Pelosi Visits Kyiv, Ukraine
Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi paid Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy a visit, which was entirely unannounced. Pelosi is the highest ranked US official to have visited the country since the Russia’s invasion in February.
Leading an official congressional delegation at the country’s capital in Kyiv, Pelosi aimed to carry the message that the US stands with Ukraine. Pelosi pronounced, ““We are visiting you to say thank you for your fight for freedom, that we’re on a frontier for freedom and that your fight is a fight for everyone. And so our commitment is to be there for you until the fight is done.”
Tennessee Halts Executions
Following a missed protocol procedure leading to the lethal injection of Oscar Smith, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has stopped all executions through the end of the year. Reportedly, the state had tested their lethal injection drugs for potency and sterility, but not endotoxins, which breaches procedure.
The Met Gala
The Met Gala returned to its conventional pattern of being held on the first Monday of May at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. Renowned as the most prestigious night in fashion, the extravaganza followed the theme of “In America: An Anthology of Fashion,” which came after 2021’s “In America: A Lexicon Of Fashion.”
Built as a charity event to raise funds for the Met’s Costume Institute, the gala is a staple for fashion lovers around the world. The event is renowned for its esteemed guestlist of fashion moguls, celebrities and artists. Attendees for the night included the likes of Blake Lively, Normani and Billie Eilish wearing designers such as Gucci, Versace and Chanel.
CNBC Sustainable Future w/ Matt Damon and Gary White
Tania Bryer chats with Matt Damon and Gary White about their nonprofit organization, Water.org, in a special CNBC interview. Water.org aims to provide access to water and sanitation to those who need it. Tania chats with both Matt and Gary about their brand-new book The Worth of Water: Our Story of Chasing Solutions to the World’s Greatest Challenge, and the influences behind the piece.
Supreme Court Leaked Decision Chooses to Overturn Abortion Rights
May 2, POLITICO published the first draft majority opinion of the Supreme Court that reveals a reversal of the monumental Roe v. Wade 1973 decision. Overturning the landmark ruling would place verdicts about abortion into the hands of state representatives. A decision involving the court has never been exposed while a case in still unresolved, especially one of such magnitude.
Regarding the judgment to override the original Roe v. Wade decision, Justice Samuel Alito stated the following in the leaked draft, “Roe was egregiously wrong from the start. Its reasoning was exceptionally weak, and the decision has had damaging consequences. And far from bringing about a national settlement of the abortion issue, Roe and Casey have enflamed debate and deepened division.”
European Union Plans Russian Oil Ban
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced a potential ban on oil from Russia to increase pressure on the country amidst their invasion of Ukraine. European Union (EU) countries have arranged preparations to veto Russian coal imports, as the United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia have already expelled Russian imports.
Dave Chappelle Harassed During Hollywood Bowl
A man ran up on stage towards Dave Chappelle while he was performing a comedy routine at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles. The man, named Isaiah Lee, was charged with a felony assault with a deadly weapon. Lee had a fake gun that would expel a knife blade but did not harm Chappelle.
Lionsgate Announces Hunger Games Prequel Movie
The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes, a Hunger Games prequel novel, is set to obtain its own brand-new film debuting on the big screen on November 17, 2023. The story follows the story of President Coriolanus Snow in his younger years prior to becoming such a staple in the modern narrative.
Amber Heard Testifies in Defamation Trial
The defamation suit between Johnny Depp and Amber Heard began on April 11 and continued prominently into the month of May. Approaching the fourth week of the trial, the jury heard from Depp regarding his recollection of their marriage, and on May 4 Heard began her own testimony. The case is set to be concluded on May 19.
Animal-to-Human Heart Transplant Revelation
In January of 2022, David Bennett, 57, underwent a final resort surgery to save his life through use of a pig’s organ. Bennett underwent a heart transplant and was doing well for about two months following the procedure, until he suddenly passed away. Now, University of Maryland doctors have found that within the pig heart there was viral DNA carrying porcine cytomegalovirus. It is uncertain if the virus contributed to the death of Bennett, but this finding raises ongoing questions about animal-to-human transplants.
Kevin Samuels Passes Away
57-year-old YouTuber Kevin Samuels has passed away due to unknown reasons. He was reportedly found unresponsive in his Atlanta apartment on May 5. Samuels was known more his conservative relationship advice approach.
Rihanna and A$AP Rocky Tease Potential Engagement
A$AP Rocky released the music video for his track “D.M.B.,” which portrays the love story between himself and superstar Rihanna. At the end of the video, Rocky sports a grill that says, “Marry me?” with Rihanna, too, wearing a matching grill that states out, “I do.”
The video broke the internet, with everyone and their mother speculating a possible engagement between the two. It has not been confirmed, nor denied, that Rihanna and Rocky are engaged, but the duo is expecting their first child together.
Menstrual Pain May Prevent Many Women From Working, Spain
Half of women experience painful periods at least once every six months. Some of the symptoms they may have are nausea, fainting, and vomiting. The country’s policymakers will implement a three-day sick leave for severe menstrual pain, which affects most women who experience their period. According to a scientific study, 84.1% of women report have very considerable menstrual pain, which can prevent them from carrying out their activities and therefore they could be absent from work.
Mercedes-Benz India has Launched the New Generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class
On May 10, 2022, one of the most anticipated releases of Mercedes-Benz was launched. The German car manufacturer has launched the new C-Class in three different versions: The C 200 with petrol engine is priced at $71,089.26 (Rs 55 lakh – Indian Currency) meanwhile, the C 220d and 330d with diesel engine are priced at 72,390 $.64 (Rs 56 lakh) and $78,854.09 (Rs 61 lakh), respectively. Mercedes-Benz claimed that it received more than 1,000 pre-launch reservations for the fifth-generation C-Class.
Lacrosse Team Files Racial Discrimination Claim by Sheriff’s Deputies
There is huge outrage over a traffic stop in Georgia. Last month, US authorities searched and detained a bus carrying the Lacrosse team belonging to Delaware State University, a historically black institution. The team specifically complains about racial profiling by sheriff’s deputies. On the contrary, the agents maintain the version that they stopped the driver for driving in the wrong lane. But after the bus stopped, officers searched the students’ belongings for any type of drug-like chemical. Instead, the team maintains that those searches were conducted on racial grounds.
Student Saniya Craft recorded parts of the trip on her device, thinking it would be part of her blog about her lacrosse team. However, she did not expect that she would end up storing evidence of what she believes to be racial profiling by sheriff’s deputies. Authorities consider it appropriate to open a federal investigation into the incident that occurred to the Delaware State University lacrosse team in Georgia.
May 13, 14 and 15 were jam-packed with Rupaul’s Drag Race fun at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Rupaul’s Dragcon is a convention-like event held annually to celebrate the queens of the franchise, as well as time to indulge in the rich queer culture created by the phenomenon.
Arriving amongst the Pretty Little Thing pink carpet, fans cheered on beloved queens from the franchise as they sashayed away. Amongst attendees included OG Drag Race royalty Latrice Royale and Manila Luzon, to crowned queens from recent seasons like Symone and Willow Pill.
At the event, guests were invited to meet queens at their booths for a purchase of merch. Surrounded amongst the booths, too, included vendors from other renowned LGBTQ+ businesses and allies. Exclusively filmed at the event was TS Madison’s all-new show coming to WOW Presents Plus, Bring Back My Girls. Recent season queens met up to discuss their time on the show in a reunion-style format.
Other experiences at Dragcon included panels where fans got to hear from some of their most beloved fans, like the All-Stars 7 all-winners panel to honor the latest season. Performances were given amongst the House of Love main stage, including DJ sets by Rupaul themselves, Alaska singing tracks from her latest album and two thirds of the beloved UK Frock Destroyers.
Rihanna Gives Birth to Baby Boy
Rihanna reportedly gave birth first to her first child with A$AP Rocky on May 13. The arrival of the baby boy has not been confirmed by both parents yet.
MÅNESKIN Performs on The Tonight Show
Celebrating the release of their latest song “SUPERMODEL,” produced by Max Martin, MÅNESKIN took to The Tonight Show starring Jimmy Fallon to perform the hit. Watch HERE. Their LOUD KIDS WORLD TOUR is set to commence this fall, with a range of performances across North America.
Pete Davidson Leaves Saturday Night Live
After an eight-year run with the popular late-night comedy show Saturday Night Live (SNL), Pete Davidson departures from the phenomenon. A staple amongst the cast, during Davidson’s final goodbye, he recalled how SNL founder Lorne Michaels didn’t think he was the best fir for the show, but decided to take a risk on him.
About his time with SNL, Davidson stated the following, “I never imagined this would be my life, […] I was just a skinny kid that no one knew which race I was. And now everyone knows I’m White because I became hugely successful while barely showing up to work. Look at me now, I’m aging like an old banana.”
Robb Elementary School Shooting
Tuesday May 24 Salvador Ramos, 18, opened fire at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, killing 21. Of the killed, 19 were children and two teachers. Ramos, too, shot his grandmother before attacking the elementary school.
The killer took to Instagram two days prior to the massacre posting images of his two AR-15-style rifles. He communicated with a 15-year-old girl from Germany during the course of the attack. He told the girl how he had “just shot my grandma in her head,” and was planning to “go shoot up a(n) elementary school rn (right now).”
May 24 will be remembered as the deadliest mass shooting since Sandy Hook, the 30th so far this year. The shooting makes number 213 for the country in 2022, which surpasses the number of days so far in the year. The travesty has sparked up continuing debates about gun violence in the United States.
Kate Moss testifies in aid of Johnny Depp, Virginia
The trial of the actor and his ex, Amber Head, has become a social phenomenon and the most watched on American television. Lies, abuse and millionaire agreements, the key points of the trial of Johnny Depp and Amber Heard. Heard tearfully recounts alleged domestic abuse in her relationship with Johnny Depp.
Johnny Depp and Kate Moss had a strong romance during the 1990s that ended when he met Vanessa Paradis, who would later become his wife and mother of his children. Despite the breakup, the friendship remains and the British model has decided to testify in favor of the actor in the defamation trial that Depp maintains against his second wife, Amber Heard. The trial began last Monday, April 11, and is expected to last around six weeks. Depp demands 50 million dollars as compensation for damages, while Heard has filed a counterclaim, asking for double: 100 million dollars.
Volodymyr Zelensky Made a Special Appearance at Cannes Film Festival 2022, France
The 75th edition of the Cannes International Film Festival kicked off on the night of the 17th on the French Riviera, thus recovering its usual dates after the pandemic. The Cannes Festival is the most famous film, mediatic and cultural event in the world, being an essential meeting for film producing countries since its creation in 1946.
In its inaugural gala, the Grand Theater Lumière stood up after the irruption of the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, who, quoting Chaplin, asked that the cinema not be silent: “We need a new Chaplin who shows that, in our time, the cinema is not silent” in the face of Russia’s attack on Ukraine.With an emotional appearance, he returned to vindicate the feeling of the public by referring to the film “The Great Dictator“. The dictators are free, only they, but they enslave the people. Let’s fight now to make what was promised come true. Let us all fight to liberate the world. Tear down national barriers, eliminate ambition, hatred and intolerance”, declared the president, drawing applause from all those present.
Actor Ray Liotta Passes Away
At the age of 67, Ray Liotta suddenly passed away. While filming the upcoming film Dangerous Waters, Liotta died in his hotel room in the Dominican Republic beside his fiancé Jacy Nittolo.
Camila Cabello shines in her performance during the opening ceremony of the 2022 Champions Final, France
The Cuban sang the greatest hits of her musical career live in Paris. Camila Cabello will always remember her performance at the opening ceremony of the 2022 Champions League final at Saint-Denis stadium. Not only because she managed to shine live with a staging full of Latin sounds and bright colors, but also because it was one of the most disorganized matches that be remembered.
The Cuban singer made a great presentation in which she highlighted her colorful dance team and her commitment to the great successes that have marked her musical career. With her own stamp, she was singing the notes of Señorita, Havana, Bam bam to close withDon’t go yet.
Mona Lisa painting attacked in the Louvre Museum, France
The attack on Leonardo Da Vinci‘s most famous work has had no regrettable consequences, since the painting is luckily protected by glass. The author was a man dressed as an old woman who threw a cake at the Mona Lisa painting. Museum Police have acted quickly, immediately expelling the attacker of the museum.
The visitor who tried to damage the painting was in a wheelchair, with his face painted and covered with a hat and a blanket so as not to be identified. His goal was to take a photo of the work between the cord and the painting, a space reserved for disabled people. Click HERE to watch the video.
Sunday, April 3, the 64th Grammy Awards were held at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. Trevor Noah hosted the esteemed award show where looks were turned on the red carpet, performances were given and winners were crowned.
A good number of awards were bestowed before the telecast commenced, including The Best Rap Album award won by Tyler, the Creator’s Call Me If You Get Lost. The Grammy’s have had a longstanding history of opposition with hip-hop dating all the way back to 1989. A pattern of not broadcasting or platforming hip-hop has grown to be infamous with the Grammy’s, hinting as to why many artists in the genre were not in attendance and have even boycotted the show.
Of the most captivating performances of the night included Olivia Rodrigo, who walked away with a stunning three Grammy Awards by the end of the night. She took to the stage while performing her breakout 2021 hit, ‘Drivers License,’ which ultimately won the Grammy for Best Pop Solo Performance.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy sent in a pre-taped message to the Vegas showing in which he spoke on the significance of music and support for Ukraine right now. While words were spoken, John Legend took to the stage to perform “Free,” with Ukrainian artists Siuzanna Iglidan, Mika Newton and Lyuba Yakimchuck.
Zelenskyy began his speech, stating, “The war doesn’t let us choose who survives and who stays in eternal silence, […] Our musicians wear body armor instead of tuxedos. They sing to the wounded in hospitals. Even to those who can’t hear them. But the music will break through anyway.
“We defend our freedom. To live. To love. To sound. On our land, we are fighting Russia which brings horrible silence with its bombs. Fill the silence with your music. Fill it today. Tell our story. Tell the truth about the war on your social networks and TV. But not silence.”
One of the most touching moments of the night came from Jazmine Sullivan‘s superb acceptance speech as her album was named the R&B Album Grammy winner.
Sullivan spoke to the inspiration of the piece, and how the album embodied a voice for Black women, while stating, “I wrote this project to deal with my own shame and unforgiveness around decisions I made in my 20s that weren’t favorable. But what it ended up being was a safe space for Black women to tell their stories, for us to learn from each other, laugh with each other, and not be exploited at the same time. That’s what I’m most grateful for. Shoutout to all Black women who are just living their lives and being beautiful.”
We also saw Doja Cat and SZA receive their first wins for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance for their collaboration on “Kiss Me More.” Their acceptance speech rung more lighthearted, with both artists cracking jokes about Doja rushing to the bathroom prior to the announcement. SZA teased, “Bro, you went to the bathroom for five minutes. Are you serious?” to which Doja replied, “I have never taken such a fast piss in my whole life.”
The pair continued to thank express their gratefulness to each other and those around them, to which Doja showed emotional rawness while raving, “I like to downplay shit, but this? It’s a big deal. Thank you, everybody.“
“Leave the Door Open,” Brandon Anderson, Christopher Brody Brown, Dernst Emile II and Bruno Mars, songwriters (Silk Sonic)
Best New Artist
Olivia Rodrigo
Best Pop Solo Performance
“Drivers License,” Olivia Rodrigo
Best Pop Duo/Group Performance
“Kiss Me More,” Doja Cat featuring SZA
Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album
“Love for Sale,” Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga
Best Pop Vocal Album
“Sour,” Olivia Rodrigo
Best Dance/Electronic Recording
“Alive,” Rüfüs Du Sol
Best Dance/Electronic Music Album
“Subconsciously,” Black Coffee
Best Alternative Music Album
“Daddy’s Home,” St. Vincent
Best Contemporary Instrumental Album
“Tree Falls,” Taylor Eigsti
Best Rock Performance
“Making a Fire,” Foo Fighters
Best Metal Performance
“The Alien,” Dream Theater
Best Rock Song
“Waiting on a War,” Dave Grohl, Taylor Hawkins, Rami Jaffee, Nate Mendel, Chris Shiflett and Pat Smear, songwriters (Foo Fighters)
Best Rock Album
“Medicine at Midnight,” Foo Fighters
Best R&B Performance
“Leave the Door Open,” Silk Sonic
“Pick Up Your Feelings,” Jazmine Sullivan
Best Traditional R&B Performance
“Fight for You,” H.E.R.
Best R&B Song
“Leave the Door Open,” Brandon Anderson, Christopher Brody Brown, Dernst Emile II and Bruno Mars, songwriters (Silk Sonic)
Best Progressive R&B Album
“Table for Two,” Lucky Daye
Best Rock Album
“Medicine at Midnight,” Foo Fighters
Best R&B Performance
“Leave the Door Open,” Silk Sonic
“Pick Up Your Feelings,” Jazmine Sullivan
Best Traditional R&B Performance
“Fight for You,” H.E.R.
Best R&B Song
“Leave the Door Open,” Brandon Anderson, Christopher Brody Brown, Dernst Emile II and Bruno Mars, songwriters (Silk Sonic)
Best Progressive R&B Album
“Table for Two,” Lucky Daye
Best Country Duo/Group Performance
“Younger Me,” Brothers Osborne
Best Country Song
“Cold,” Dave Cobb, J.T. Cure, Derek Mixon and Chris Stapleton, songwriters (Chris Stapleton)
Best Country Album
“Starting Over,” Chris Stapleton
Best New Age Album
“Divine Tides,” Stewart Copeland and Ricky Kej
Best Improvised Jazz Solo
“Humpty Dumpty (Set 2),” Chick Corea, soloist
Best Jazz Vocal Album
“Songwrights Apothecary Lab,” Esperanza Spalding
Best Jazz Instrumental Album
“Skyline,” Ron Carter, Jack DeJohnette and Gonzalo Rubalcaba
Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album
“For Jimmy, Wes and Oliver,” Christian McBride Big Band
Best Latin Jazz Album
“Mirror Mirror,” Eliane Elias With Chick Corea and Chucho Valdés
Best Gospel Performance/Song
“Never Lost,” CeCe Winans
Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song
“Believe for It,” CeCe Winans; Dwan Hill, Kyle Lee, CeCe Winans and Mitch Wong, songwriters
Best Gospel Album
“Believe for It,” CeCe Winans
Best Contemporary Christian Music Album
“Old Church Basement,” Elevation Worship and Maverick City Music
Best Roots Gospel Album
“My Savior,” Carrie Underwood
Best Latin Pop Album
“Mendó,” Alex Cuba
Best Música Urbana Album
“El Último Tour Del Mundo,” Bad Bunny
Best Latin Rock or Alternative Album
“Origen,” Juanes
Best Regional Mexican Music Album (Including Tejano)
“A Mis 80’s,” Vicente Fernández
Best Tropical Latin Album
“Salswing!,” Rubén Blades y Roberto Delgado & Orquesta
Best American Roots Performance
“Cry,” Jon Batiste
Best American Roots Song
“Cry,” Jon Batiste and Steve McEwan, songwriters (Jon Batiste)
Best Americana Album
“Native Sons,” Los Lobos
Best Bluegrass Album
“My Bluegrass Heart,” Béla Fleck
Best Traditional Blues Album
“I Be Trying,” Cedric Burnside
Best Contemporary Blues Album
“662,” Christone “Kingfish” Ingram
Best Folk Album
“They’re Calling Me Home,” Rhiannon Giddens with Francesco Turrisi
Best Regional Roots Music Album
“Kau Ka Pe’a,” Kalani Pe’a
Best Reggae Album
“Beauty in the Silence,” Soja
Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical
“Love for Sale,” Dae Bennett, Josh Coleman and Billy Cumella, engineers; Greg Calbi and Steve Fallone, mastering engineers (Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga)
“Carry On: Reflections for a New Generation From John Lewis,” Don Cheadle
Best Comedy Album
“Sincerely Louis C.K.,” Louis C.K.
Best Musical Theater Album
“The Unofficial Bridgerton Musical,” Emily Bear, producer; Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, composers/lyricists (Barlow & Bear)
Best Compilation Soundtrack for Visual Media
“The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” Andra Day
Best Score Soundtrack for Visual Media
“The Queen’s Gambit,” Carlos Rafael Rivera, composer
“Soul,” Jon Batiste, Trent Reznor and Atticus Ross, composers
Best Song Written For Visual Media
“All Eyes On Me [From Inside],” Bo Burnham, songwriter (Bo Burnham)
Best Immersive Audio Album
“Alicia,” George Massenburg and Eric Schilling, immersive mix engineers; Michael Romanowski, immersive mastering engineer; Ann Mincieli, immersive producer (Alicia Keys)
Best Immersive Audio Album (for 63rd Grammy Awards)
“Soundtrack of the American Soldier,” Leslie Ann Jones, immersive mix engineer; Michael Romanowski, immersive mastering engineer; Dan Merceruio, immersive producer (Jim R. Keene and the United States Army Field Band)
Best Engineered Album, Classical
“Chanticleer Sings Christmas,” Leslie Ann Jones, engineer (Chanticleer)
“Glass: Akhnaten,” Karen Kamensek, conductor; J’Nai Bridges, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Zachary James and Dísella Lárusdóttir; David Frost, producer (The Metropolitan Opera Orchestra; The Metropolitan Opera Chorus)
Best Choral Performance
“Mahler: Symphony No. 8, ‘Symphony of a Thousand,’” Gustavo Dudamel, conductor; Grant Gershon, Robert Istad, Fernando Malvar-Ruiz and Luke McEndarfer, chorus masters (Leah Crocetto, Mihoko Fujimura, Ryan McKinny, Erin Morley, Tamara Mumford, Simon O’Neill, Morris Robinson and Tamara Wilson; Los Angeles Philharmonic; Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, Los Angeles Master Chorale, National Children’s Chorus and Pacific Chorale)
Best Chamber Music/Small Ensemble Performance
“Beethoven: Cello Sonatas – Hope Amid Tears,” Yo-Yo Ma and Emanuel Ax
Best Classical Instrumental Solo
“Alone Together,” Jennifer Koh
Best Classical Solo Vocal Album
“Mythologies,” Sangeeta Kaur and Hila Plitmann (Virginie D’Avezac De Castera, Lili Haydn, Wouter Kellerman, Nadeem Majdalany, Eru Matsumoto and Emilio D. Miler)
Best Classical Compendium
“Women Warriors – The Voices of Change,” Amy Andersson, conductor; Amy Andersson, Mark Mattson and Lolita Ritmanis, producers.
“Meta Knight’s Revenge (From ‘Kirby Superstar’),” Charlie Rosen and Jake Silverman, arrangers (The 8-Bit Big Band featuring Button Masher)
Best Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals
“To The Edge Of Longing (Edit Version),” Vince Mendoza, Arranger (Vince Mendoza, Czech National Symphony Orchestra and Julia Bullock)
Best Recording Package
“Pakelang,” Li Jheng Han and Yu, Wei, Art Directors (2nd Generation Falangao Singing Group and the Chairman Crossover Big Band)
Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package
“All Things Must Pass: 50th Anniversary Edition,” Darren Evans, Dhani Harrison and Olivia Harrison, art directors (George Harrison)
Best Album Notes
“The Complete Louis Armstrong Columbia and RCA Victor Studio Sessions 1946-1966,” Ricky Riccardi, album notes writer (Louis Armstrong)
Best Historical Album
“Joni Mitchell Archives, Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963-1967),” Patrick Milligan and Joni Mitchell, compilation producers; Bernie Grundman, mastering engineer (Joni Mitchell)
Best Music Video
“Freedom,” (Jon Batiste); Alan Ferguson, video director; Alex P. Willson, video producer.
Best Music Film
“Summer of Soul,” (Various Artists); Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, video director; David Dinerstein, Robert Fyvolent and Joseph Patel, video producers.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine features death, destruction, a refugee crisis reminiscent of World War II and worldwide condemnation. But beyond the bombs and acts of inhumanity lay multiple levels of lesser significance than the human toll, including the desire for reprisals and boycotts of all things Russian.
Included in that discussion are matters from the world of sports, and a Seton Hall Sports Poll has found that a clear majority of Americans say that governing bodies around the world should use their platforms to sanction national governments and their athletes for hostile actions against other nations and/or human right violations.
The Poll found that by a margin of 61 to 17 percent the general population of the U.S. supports such sanctions, with 67 percent of sports fans and 71 percent of avid fans in agreement. Those who said no to sanctions numbered just 16 percent of sports fans and 15 percent of avid fans. The remainder did not know or held no opinion.
The Seton Hall Sports Poll was conducted on March 11-14 across the United States using a national representative sample weighted according to gender, age, ethnicity, education, income and geography, based on U.S. Census Bureau figures. The Poll featured 1,528 adult respondents with a margin of error of +/- 3.2 percent.
Daniil Medvedev and Grand Slam Tennis
Asked specifically whether Russian tennis star Daniil Medvedev should be banned from upcoming Grand Slam tournaments, the general population said yes by a 43-30 percent margin (27 percent “don’t know/no opinion”). Among sports fans, the margin for banning him was 44-33 percent (23 percent don’t know/no opinion) and among avid fans, it was 48-30 percent in favor of a ban, with 22 percent saying “don’t know/no opinion”. Medvedev has been ranked number one in the world, but will lose that position when the new rankings are issued on Monday.
“What is happening in Ukraine is a human tragedy that is significantly more important than sports,” said Professor Charles Grantham, Director of the Center for Sport Management within Seton Hall’s Stillman School of Business, which sponsors the Poll. “Banning one of tennis’ top players from a Grand Slam tournament may seem punitive but not compared to Russia’s actions on the world stage.”
Ice Skating
The support for banishment grew even stronger when respondents were asked whether the International Skating Union (ISU) got it right in excluding Russia from the World Figure Skating Championships later this month. That action bars, among the team, Olympic gold medalist Anna Shcherbakova and 15-year old Kamila Valieva, who made headlines earlier this year after a doping controversy. Among the general population, 54 percent supported the ban with only 20 percent opposing it (26 percent said “don’t know/no opinion”). Among sports fans, the ban was supported by a 59-21 percent margin (20 percent “don’t know/no opinion”), and among avid fans, support was 63-20 percent with 17 percent in the “don’t know/no opinion” category.
World Cup Soccer
FIFA, the governing body of world soccer, has banned Russia from the 2022 World Cup competition, and this too was heavily supported by the American public. The general population favored the ban by 64-15 percent, a greater than 4 to 1 margin (21 percent said “don’t know/no opinion”). Among sports fans, support for the ban was even greater, with 69-16 percent favoring sanctions (15 percent said “don’t know/no opinion”). Among avid fans, support rose again to 71-15 percent (14 percent said “don’t know/no opinion”).
Moving Soccer Championship from Russia
Support was similarly overwhelming for UEFA, the governing body of European soccer, for dropping St. Petersburg, Russia as the site of its Champions League final (relocating it to Paris). The general population of the U.S. approved of this move and sanctions by 69-10 percent. Among sports fans, that approval rose to 74-10 percent (a greater than 7 to 1 margin). Among avid fans, an even greater margin approved of these sanctions, with 79-8 percent (nearly 10 to 1) in favor. The “don’t know/no opinion” on this was 21, 16 and 13 percent respectively.
“Soccer is the world’s most popular sport and FIFA’s World Cup and UEFA’s Champions League are its prestigious tournaments,” said Seton Hall Marketing Professor and Poll Methodologist Daniel Ladik. “The exclusion of Russian athletes, teams, and venues sends a small but important message that the world does not approve and will not abide the actions of the Russian state.”
