#Living in Huddersfield

[natjennie]

the fact that people live in britain is so weird. what do you mean you can just go to west horsley place. you can just drive past the taskmaster house. these aren't real places there's no way.

[don-lichterman]

Press Preview: Sunday's papers

Press Preview: Sunday’s papers

Sky News takes a look at the stories making headlines on the front of Sunday’s national newspapers. SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube channel for more videos: http://www.youtube.com/skynews Follow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/skynews Like us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/skynews Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skynews Follow us on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@skynews For…

[263adder]

The Horny Bisexual Trope

Eleanor Shellstrop, The Good Place

"[In a research paper by The Journal of Sex Research] researchers found that bisexual women, compared to lesbians and heterosexual women, were evaluated as more confused, promiscuous, non-monogamous, neurotic, extraverted, and open to experiences. Bisexuals were also evaluated as less agreeable and less conscientious." Psypost

Lisa Palmer, Santa Clarita Diet

"Though LGBT+ representation in the media has been improving in recent years, it is still rare to see positive portrayals of bi characters on television. Characters are usually assumed to be either gay or straight, depending on which characters they are interested in romantically. Even if a character is portrayed as being attracted to both male and female characters, they rarely identify as bi, instead claiming to “not need labels.”

"Bi characters are typically villains, promiscuous characters, or untrustworthy." Soapboxie

Nick Scratch, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

"A common and inaccurate stereotype is that all bisexual people do not want to be, or cannot be, monogamous. It is inaccurate and harmful to imply that bisexual people are categorically more “promiscuous” than others. People of all sexual orientations can be monogamous for some or all of their lives, or they can choose other types of relationships. This decision is entirely separate from one's sexual orientation." GLAAD Media Reference Guide

Klaus Hargreeves, The Umbrella Academy

"Pansexual people are [also] commonly faced with [this] stigma, fuelled in part by some people's belief that they lead hypersexualized lives. This infers that pansexual people are more likely to cheat and be promiscuous because they are "available to everyone."

"This misconception has led some people to assume that pansexual people are wanting to engage in any and all sexual activities, negating the need for sexual consent." Very Well Health

Irene Adler, Sherlock

"The hypersexualization of the LGBTQ community has taken many forms. Not only are gay men and transgender women framed as sexual predators, but lesbians are objectified and fetishized by straight men, and bisexual and pansexual people are assumed to be constantly sleeping around." The Under Ground

Bisexuality on screen is used to indicate sexual experience and promiscuity. This feeds into the misconception that bisexuality is used as a way to appear more attractive and "bisexual people [are] just attention-seeking nymphomaniacs – or that bisexuality was, in the words of Carrie Bradshaw, “Just a layover on the way to Gay Town.”" Fashion Journal

Margot Tenenbaum, The Royal Tenenbaums

"The way its [bisexuality] been commodified, that was always going to happen… there’s a whole sort of discourse around bisexuality, its exotic… that bohemian angle, it masks the actuality of being a bisexual person even in this day and age." University of Huddersfield

Bisexuality is used to add to the mysteriousness of an already mysterious character. It's not undisclosed for privacy; it's hidden to feed into a "not like other girls / guys" trope.

Willow Rosenberg, Buffy the Vampire Slayer

"Bisexuals talk about “coming out twice"—once as gay or lesbian in a heterosexual world when they acknowledge their attraction to their own gender, and then again when they acknowledge their continuing attraction to the opposite sex." Psychology Today

The common depiction of bisexual myths is one of the reasons bisexuals feel they have to come out numerous times or don't come out at all.

"Three in ten bi men (30%) and almost one in ten bi women (8%), say they cannot be open about their sexual orientation with any of their friends, compared to two per cent of gay men and one per cent of lesbians." Stonewall

Not all visibility is good visibility.

[greendaystack]

Green Day live in Huddersfield, England (June 25, 2022) x

[lucawrites11]

Hi , sorry to disturb you, do you think nwsl is the worst league in the world ? I don't understand the slander . Yes we have lots to improve in terms of players transfer and abuse and coaches. But the way the fans are going on like it is a retirement league. I am an uswnt fan and I try to follow every league as much as I can but sometimes can't stand the slander of the league. Every league is not perfect and has its pros and cons. I want every league to do well. That's it.

well the uzbek and colombian leagues could definitely use some more improvement than the nwsl

it's not the worst league in the world. i think in terms of competition, it's the strongest with teams on equal footing

but

i don't like it and it makes me uncomfortable like all us leagues in all sports (basketball, baseball etc.) . it's good to watch but there's no loyalty, little local ties and the stories just aren't the same and the protection for players is not there at all. the ability to trade players, move clubs, change their names etc. etc. and the reliance on the college system is terrible. imagine if arsenal could up and move to fucking huddersfield and leah gets traded to chelsea. it's weird and wrong for fans, for players, for everyone. you need loyalty and the system is set for money not players and fans

and their method of no longer relying on college is hurting young players. there needs to be a better youth system. having a 14 year old play for you is not a flex, it's a child labour (a crime). a lot of leagues have age restrictions and they are a good thing, they protect kids. high level sport is not something their bodies are ready for. other teams have youth leagues or b teams which properly prepare them, not hurt them

that's not to say the wsl and bundesliga and liga f don't have problems. they are clearly not competitive and often not prioritised by the men running them but a lot of the rules that those men's leagues have are good. they have been fought for by unions for a LONG time and they are there for a reason, protecting kids and protecting fans and protecting players

i think to a lot of european fans, the nwsl is unfamiliar and feels wrong. we have been around footie all our lives, in most of our countries it's a way of life so doing it differently unsettles us especially when it hurts players and fans so we are more inclined to call it out

don't get me wrong, european leagues have their problems. 99 of them are the men in charge but there are a lot of steps towards change and with some money they could get there. and the problems that aren't solved by men getting off their asses and funding women's teams/football are normally problems that also exist in men's football and yeah we know but we also know it won't change. the nwsl feels like it has more capacity and ability to change it's bad rules so people call it out

the men's league in the usa is a retirement league but the women's isn't imo. i think retirement in women's football atm is different for each player. spanish it's mexico, rest of europe it tends to be a return to their local/hometown clubs eg demi stokes to the greatest club in england, toni duggan to everton, maren returning to her hometown norwegian club etc. etc.

[hannahlockillustration]

(i hope this isn't creepy but) I saw on your Etsy shop that you're based in Huddersfield! Just wanted to say it's amazing to think that live in the same area as one of my favourite artists!

Yorkshire for life my lads !!!

[joannechocolat]

Hi Joanne, Where is the best place to buy your books please. I live in Huddersfield by the way.

You should be able to find them in any bookshop, or online.

[soundsystemcultureblog]

Sound System Culture Mini Festival

Sunday 15 September 2024

Review by Gopal Dutta

It’s a rainy September afternoon in the centre of Huddersfield, and I’m on Wood Street for the Sound System Culture Mini Festival, part of the nationwide Heritage Open Days programme.

The street transforms into a vibrant, colourful space where everyone is welcome. Gazebos shelter the Zion Inna-Vision Sound System, alongside several stalls catering to the daytime crowd who have braved the showers. There’s face-painting, vegan food and cakes, cards, and books on offer. Rainbow-coloured bunting flutters in the wind, the whole scene giving me that “festival” vibe despite the poor weather.

In the glowing, cave-like atmosphere of the Northern Quarter bar, a steady stream of people take their seats around the large pull-down screen that has been especially set up, and an air of expectancy pervades the air. “Filling up nicely,” says Professor Julian Henriques, visiting from London to present a programme of documentaries commissioned by his research unit, Sonic Street Technologies, at Goldsmiths University. Every seat is soon occupied, and more attendees line the walls or sit on the steps, eager to share in this collective experience. The distant siren from the outdoor sound system blends into the indoor atmosphere, merging the worlds of film and reality.

Introducing the first film, a fascinating documentary about Gabre Selassie and the formation of the Kingston Dub Club, Julian acknowledges the importance of Huddersfield in reggae history, mentioning the legendary Venn Street nightclub and declaring that “Huddersfield in the 80s was the epicentre of reggae in the UK.”

The film programme is an excellent whistle-stop tour of the current landscape of sound systems around the world, taking in Jamaica, India, Colombia, Brazil, Australia, and finishing, with a poetic circularity, in South Africa. All of the films highlight reggae music’s power as a force for self-empowerment, community building, and as a social safety valve.

Throughout the screening, more people continue to file into the venue. Each time the door opens and closes, you can hear the outdoor sound system and the lively Brazilian drums performance by Grupo de Gringos Percussion.

As the films end to a warm applause from the audience, we are at standing room only, with a diverse mix of young and old, a wide range of races and cultures represented—Huddersfield’s diversity in all its glory.

The scene inside mirrors what’s depicted on screen inside: a dimly lit, atmospheric room with a diverse crowd, food, and drink being served. The team have done a great job recreating the vibe of a dub club.

As the energy from the films flows out into the street, the same heavy bassline fills the air, with people chatting, dancing, laughing, eating, and drinking, with DJ Andi G on the decks and Marshall on mic duties.

Eventually, the sun makes an appearance, and over the next few hours, more people arrive, swaying to reggae bassline. The free entry means many passersby pop in, drawn by the sweet music and vibrant atmosphere. Conversations flow, with strangers bonding over their shared love for the music, their faces lighting up as familiar tracks play. There is a collective cheer as Marshall exclaims, “We don’t want no rain no more,” echoing the crowd’s mood.

Riddim Master from Ras Ambassador Sound System then takes control of the decks, delivering an all-vinyl set that opens with Rod Taylor’s unmistakable "His Imperial Majesty" and the warm crackle of dub. Next up is Bigga Puss from Shakatone Esquire Sound System, warming up the crowd with a seamless selection of ska, rocksteady, and roots. As the familiar tones of “Kunta Kinte Dub” by The Revolutionaries fade in, a moment of recognition sweeps through the crowd. Finally, the legendary Papa Burkey, pioneer of the Earth Rocker Sound System from the 80s, takes over, keeping the energy high as the dancing continues, alongside Ras Sis Highness and Dee Bo General on the mic.

Well done to the event team for creating such a vibrant festival, much-needed entertainment in the heart of Huddersfield.

[kosmoderma-1]

Face Mask Skin Irritation: Here's What a Dermatologist Says you Can Do | Kosmoderma

While we are trying to come out of the corona virus and set our lives back into our regular routines, one thing that is going along is the precautions we need to take to protect ourselves from the infection. One such protection is the need to wear a face mask when you step out of your house. With all the government guidelines in place, wearing a face mask whenever you go out in public has become mandatory.

With the increased use of face masks, we have observed that people have started experiencing skin issues and skin irritation on the face. According to a study published by the Journal of Wound Care from the University of Huddersfield in the United Kingdom, medical masks are causing inflammation and skin irritation on the face that can lead to pain and infection.

So, what do we do about it? This blog on face mask skin irritation is all about understanding the logic and working on preventive measures.

Overview of “Skin Irritation to Face Mask”

Wearing a face mask continuously and for more extended periods can lead to skin irritation on the face. When wearing a mask, your mouth is covered fully, and your breath is trapped, creating a humid environment for your skin. It leads to sweating underneath the mask, which causes friction and leads to damage on and around the nose and cheeks.

According to statistics, more than one-third of frontline healthcare workers suffered from severe skin reactions after wearing N95 masks daily for a prolonged time. People report problems like breakouts, rashes, redness, skin irritation, and acne on the face.

The acne caused by continual mask wear even got a name for themselves because of their common occurrence and are known as ‘maskne.’ In some instances, continuous mask wear can also lead to severe skin irritation on face such as rosacea miliaria. Wearing a face mask for skin is causing irritation across their nasal bridge, behind the ears, and under the chin. Some skin problems from wearing face mask on skin include-

Acne- if someone is already prone to acne, wearing a face mask can lead to further breakouts. Masks block and close the hair follicles due to the sweating and dirt traps that happen because of constant coverage and lack of transpiration. This in turn leads to acne. And sometimes, things do not stop at acne. Severe damages can result into the acne turning into blood red pimple or even rosacea.

Dry skin, peeling and itching- The heat of your breath that gets trapped inside essentially dries your skin and can cause redness, skin peels or itching. For instance, if you have been in colder weather, you must have realised how continuous wearing of caps makes your forehead scaly or dry. Well, a mask does the same in case of prolonged wear.

Itchy rashes- wearing a mask for prolonged periods can also lead to rashes resulting from allergic reactions to formaldehyde, metals, rubbers, or glues present in the mask.

And yes, dry eye is one really serious concern. Check out the guidelines shared by Core for a better understanding.

https://www.kosmoderma.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Skin-iritation-2.jpg

What things should we care about while using a face mask for skin?

Not a lot, but few very critical things:

Do not keep adjusting your mask all the time. The continuous movement against your skin will create friction and hence damage the skin

Go for lighter shades if you may for the reusable masks. Darker shades don’t look dirty and hence we think that they are good to be used daily. However, this assumption is really faulty and can result in serious infections. So, wear a lighter shade that shows you the truth!

Go for softer fibres. Satin masks are available as well and you can use them

Do not buy masks with a mesh screen on the inner surface. The mesh leaves a print on the face and given the lesser area of contact, causes more wear than normal

Always check the fit of the mask before buying. It shouldn’t be too loose but it shouldn’t be too tight as well. If this works for you, then go for a mask with medium fit and use a face shield over it.

Perfect care for your face skin during quarantine to avoid skin irritation on the face

Well, let’s cut the chase and share with you the few tips that our expert dermatologists at Kosmoderma have been not just suggesting but also following themselves to avoid any face mask based skin damage. So, here we go!

Cleanliness is next to godliness- stay true to this adage and maintain complete hygiene around you. Wash your hands regularly for atleast 20 seconds to avoid spreading any germs or bacteria on the face.

Do not over-exfoliate your skin. You being at home doesn’t mean you will exfoliate or scrub the skin every other day. It can lead to itching and face soreness.

Follow a proper CTM routine (cleanse, tone and moisturize)- while many individuals might be following this ritual on a daily basis, it becomes all the more necessary to cleanse and moisturize your face once you are home and remove the mask. Wash your face with a gentle, chemical-free cleanser that is not harsh on the skin and cleanses the face thoroughly. Always follow up with a moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated as it can lead to dryness and redness of the skin. Choose moisturizer as per your skin type and look for ingredients like Ceramides and Hyaluronic acid that help prevent breakouts and acne.

Use that Chapstick: Wearing a face mask for a long duration sucks moisture from the lips and makes them dry. Saw that ad about moisturising your lips- well the claim is right! So, moisturise your lips well. A honey lemon paste applied at the end of the day will go a long way in keeping your lips nourished.

Probably NO Makeup: Yes, because anyway, it’s just your eyes that will show so, why even bother. And if the dark circles seem too much for you and you feel that you need to hide them to feel confident, about time you considered going for some good under eye treatments.

Wearing the right mask- one of the most important things to consider is to look for the mask that you are wearing. A mask made of cotton or fabric that is soft, natural, and breathable will prevent any kind of skin irritation on face. The mask should be snug but with a comfortable fit. Avoid fabrics like synthetic, nylon, and polyester which can lead to redness and irritation.

Washing the cloth mask- If you are going for a cloth mask then we would recommend that they should be washed after every use to remove any dirt or dust that may have stuck to them. Also, use lukewarm water to wash the masks. It will not just remove any microbes better but also soften the overall texture.

Conclusion

Face masks have become the new normal. Even if the vaccine comes, it’s going to take some time before people are allowed to go out without masks. So, like we always say- why not be better safe than sorry?

CTA: better safe than sorry-

PS: This blog was mostly focussed on the skin bits of the protection. However, masks can impact your other bodily functions too. This image from OhioHealth focuses on it! So, while we will be there to take care of your skin, make sure that if you are facing any below mentioned symptoms, you get in touch with the relevant specialist for help!

So, until next time- Stay Safe!

[yestolerancepro]

Tolerance Ability not in Ability A producers Commentary Part 1 in the Beginning  25th Anniversary Edition

Introduction

Ever watched a film with an audio commentary? Imagine that I am sat beside you at home in your living room on the couch, explaining what happened as we made the Tolerance film. This blog will do just that and give you a more complete story about the making of Tolerance, including new interviews with the cast and crew, behind the scenes stories, and details of deleted scenes that ended up on the cutting room floor. 

 The best news is we have managed to find over 107 behind-the-scenes photographs from the original film.  They come from Rob Martin, who was meticulous at labelling these photos; the information includes the date when they were taken the location and which are the best photos to use

Tolerance Member Helen Batty approached me with more photos, which included shots taken on the last day of shooting at the Odeon Cinema in Huddersfield and the Ropewalk Pub. While going through the Tolerance film paperwork I came across the shooting schedule the props and costume lists all added more to the Tolerance story

This new version of the blog written for the 25th Anniversary of the film also includes screengrabs taken from the Tolerance film from a cleaned up digital copy that Ian Medley made in 2020

Background

The Tolerance Project was made up of a group of non-disabled and disabled people aged between 18 and 25 in the West Yorkshire area.

The idea behind the film was one of Jeremy Walkers many ideas and it was a good one we first began talking about making a disability awareness film in 1997 in fact here I am on the front cover of a 1997 edition of CDS news talking about our early plans to Huddersfield Examiner Reporter Jenny Parkin there was even an interview with me inside the booklet

We wanted to make a film that reflected the life of young disabled people in the 21st century. It was important to us as a group that it was funny, and that it would capture the humour within the group. At the same time, we wanted it to deliver a serious message about what it was like to live with a disability day-to-day.

The film has five main themes: Employment, Social Life, Transport, Accessibility, and Relationships. We chose these themes because they were important areas of all the lives of the group members.

If we were going to make the film we wanted to be involved with it as much as possible provide as many of the cast and crew in the finished film as we could. In the end other members of the Tolerance who were not in front of the camera worked behind the camera in the various behind the scenes roles.  

After a couple of false starts we approached a company called Eclipse Productions run by Richard Hellawell. The film itself was shot between the 16th to the 23 August 1999

The script was written by Richard Hellawell with input from Tolerance members; myself and Jeremy Walker were the film’s producers. In keeping with the humour we wanted the film to portray, we included film spoofs of Officer and a Gentleman, Star Wars, and The Good, The Bad and The Ugly.

 So, blog commentary coming up ... Tolerance starts and ...

45 seconds and we begin with our first film spoof, Star Wars, when the film starts with the standard Star Wars opening crawl. Instead of detailing a rebel attack on the evil empire lead by Darth Vader it tells u about the Tolerance group and what you can expect to see over the next 25 mins

Tolerance uses all original music from a number of film and TV shows, raided from my music collection. You can find a complete playlist of all the music used in Tolerance here The soundtrack totals 32 mins of music ihttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ye8KvYKn9-0&list=PLPMadem14HDA4VfaekTC3gszEtwWfyGLQ

The Soundtrack we created for the Tolerance film will be covered in a new 2 Part blog called Thank you for the Music .  

1 minute 22 seconds with the Star Wars music still playing, we get a nice opening shot of our leading man, David Smith, fast asleep, who plays our hero Robert clutching a book about the latest Star Wars film, The Phantom Menace (episode I), with his wheelchair close by.

David Smith (www.davidsmithactor.co.uk) has gone on to do some great things in the acting world appearing in episodes of Moving On for the BBC, Emmerdale for ITV, and the film Electricity. I think he gives a great performance in our film and I would love to work with him again someday.

Please note: unless mentioned in the commentary, all the actors in Tolerance are non-wheelchair users. Tolerance members did insist that all members of the cast and crew should use wheelchairs to get the full experience, before, during, and in some cases after filming was complete.

Deleted scene

The opening of the film was going to be quite different is detailed in the original script.

Scene 3: Princess Leia Dream Sequence

The first deleted scene was the first of the intended film spoofs, taking off the popular science fiction film, Star Wars. In the finished film, there is a Star Wars homage, but the director, Richard Hellawell, shot it differently from the script. In 1999 when we were filming, there was no CGI, nor did we have the budget for anything out of the ordinary!

Robert is in a Star Fighter ready to fire his thermo bombs into the Death Star. Dissolve to Robert, who receives a medal from Princess Leia, but she is not Princess Leia, she is Robert’s girlfriend, Julie.

Interestingly some of the deleted scenes were included in the props list  The Star Wars dream sequence for example has the following list attached to it Star Wars Footage blue screen equipment fighter pilot clothing medal Princess Leia dress

1 minute 47 seconds After the introduction of our leading man, we get the introduction of our leading lady, Claire Abbot, playing Julie. Like David Smith, Claire gives a great performance and I would love to meet her again. If you can help me find Claire, I would be most grateful, as I have not been able to find out any information about what she is doing now. Sadly, this is a recurring theme in Tolerance.

The use of Perfect Day is a romantic theme in the film. I wanted to use the all star Children in Need version, but Richard Hellawell went with the original Lou Read version. I have to admit in hindsight that I think this was the better choice.

2 minutes

Julie Fountain plays Julie’s mother and she would also appear in the party scene at the end of the film. She has worked on many TV programmes and is a lecturer and acting coach. (www.linkedin.com/in/julie-fountain-50968226/?trk=public-profile-join-page)

The scenes where we see Robert and Julie at home were shot at different houses, belonging to the mums of Tolerance members, Liam Centino and Gemma Blagbrough. These shots were recorded on the first day of the shoot. On the 16th of August Unfortunately, it did not go well; we had awful weather; we were nervous; and filming overran because somebody kept ruining the take with his laughing, not naming names.

The shooting schedule also notes how many pages of script we had to shoot each day on that first day we only shot the first 4 pages of the film but it seemed to take forever  

 If you wondering how long a typical filming day was like on the film the first day of filming started at 830am in the morning and we were still shooting at 7pm that day proved to be an exception to the rule most shooting days started at 7 in the morning   

The shooting schedule also has the word Skel written on it most notably in the scenes shot at the Worklink office and town sequences. This indicates that a Skeleton Crew was used in film terms that means a small crew of people required to get up early in a morning, to shoot scenes in a location where a few or no members of public are about to interrupt them a typical Skeleton Crew will include the following people

Director of Photography Directors of photography are responsible for the photographic heart of a production.

They read the screenplay and work closely with the director to discuss the look and feel of a film.

Each shot is marked up for focus and framing by the focus puller and then the DoP oversees the lighting of the set for the first take.

Make Up/Hair

In film and TV drama, hair and make-up designers help actors portray their characters by using hair and make-up to create a look.

 In pre-production, they work closely with the director to understand the style of the story.

Production Assistant Helps prepare the set with lights, props, equipment etc.Assisting costume designers, directors, camera people and other crew members. Printing and distributing daily paperwork (e.g. scripts, call sheets)

Location Audio (Sound Recordist) Sound recordists work intimately, fitting personal mics and monitoring

the sound output on all on-screen talent and contributors.

They communicate with all members of the production and crew, especially camera operators and directors.

Gaffer

During filming, they work out the positioning of the lights and fastest way to change the lighting setups between shots.

Gaffers mediate between the DoP and the rest of the lighting crew.

They're also responsible for safety and need to comply with the law on electricity, driving and employment.

Grips his responsibility is to build and maintain all the equipment that supports cameras.

This equipment, which includes tripods, dollies, tracks, jibs, cranes, and static rigs,

is constructed of delicate yet heavy duty parts requiring a high level of experience to operate and move.

2 minutes 41 seconds Julie’s sister, Mary, appears asking for her cup of tea. Mary was played by Laura Brown, sister of Tolerance member, Sarah Brown. Both Sarah and Laura moved back to Newcastle with their parents about a year after the film was shot, but please get in touch if you read this !* Footage from this scene was used to highlight the issue of Family and Relationships in the Tolerance film

My commentary will continue in part 2, which will look at the aspect of the film dealing with transport.

In the meantime, if you have read this and want to help the Tolerance Project, please click on the above link to our gofundme page

 to find out more info about or to give a small donation 

Or follow us on twitter @TolerancePro

 Coming soon Tolerance Ability Not in Ability Producers Commentary Part 2 Transport

Pictures

An example of one of the 4 photo wallets containing the Tolerance Behind the scenes photo taken by Rob Martin

Me on the Front cover of CDS News talking to Jenny Parkin from the Huddersfield Examiner

The Tolerance/Star Wars Dialoge crawl

Robert played by David Smith reading a book about the making of Star Wars Episode 1 The Phantom Menace

The Tolerance film prop list note the deleted scene props highlighted in Green

Clare Abbot as Julie

Actress Julie Fountain playing Julies Mother with Tolerance Member Laura Brown playing Julie Sister Mary

The Tolerance film shedule drawn up by director Richard Hellawell

Notes

Thank you to Ian Medley for the Skeleton crew job disriptions and for the nice clean screengrabs taken from the Tolerance film also thanks to Ruth Sharpe for giving me the title for the first chapter for the blog all those years ago and for editing the original blog in the first place

Also Thank you to Doctor who magazine for letting me nick there Fact of fiction format ha ha

[enricopolicardo]

Branded Trash: (In)Voluntary Product Displacement Project Overview

What is branded trash?

It is literally what the tin says.

Whilst absentmindedly looking at the trash that litters our daily journeys—from walking and cycling to travelling by train, passing through airports, or relaxing at the beach—we do not realise that all these discarded, logo-bearing objects are doing more than just polluting; they continue to send messages, even in their post-mortem state. They are silently communicating with us, stubbornly refusing to be ignored.

A piece of litter bearing a logo, abandoned on the beach, is the equivalent of a paid billboard on the side of a highway—perhaps less visible but far more pervasive, long-lasting, and way more economical for the company given it’s totally free.

Most importantly, the blame is shifted to the consumer, the one physically, practically and recklessly doing the littering. Branded Trash explores the concept of product displacement, highlighting the tragically ironic contrast between the intentional-unintentional placement of branded products in everyday life and their ultimate fate as discarded litter. While product placement in media aims to seamlessly integrate products into our perception of reality, blurring the lines between advertising and everyday life, product displacement reveals the unintended consequences of consumerism.

When products are correctly placed in their intended context, they seamlessly integrate into the illusion created by advertising, just like the agreement between a spectator and an actor in a performance. This integration reinforces the desired connection between the consumer and the brand, maintaining the coherence of the narrative.

However, when a product is displaced and ends up as litter, it disrupts this illusion and agreement. The cognitive dissonance arises as the intended context is shattered, revealing the real-world consequences of consumerism. This rupture can be seen as a rip in the fourth wall moment, where the viewer is abruptly confronted with the consequences of their own role/actions as a consumer and the environmental impact of their choices. This disruption challenges the seamless integration of the product into the advertising illusion, exposing the underlying contradictions and prompting reflection on the true costs of consumer culture. The photographs in Branded Trash capture the transformation of once-desirable branded products into litter, challenging the illusion created by advertising.

The images try to raise questions about consumer culture, environmental responsibility, the lasting impact of our choices, and most especially the responsibility of brands. 

It serves as a commentary on the paradoxical relationship between advertising, consumption, and the consequences of product disposal, encouraging viewers to reflect on the hidden costs behind the glossy images of branded products in everyday life.

The constant presence of logos and brands has become an integral part of our everyday existence, subtly influencing our consumer decisions. This phenomenon is not new; it has become so ingrained in our lives that we have come to accept and perceive it as a normal process.

The sight of littered packaging, cans, and bags on our streets serves as an inadvertent form of advertising, a form of passive-aggressive publicity, granting companies free promotion without their active involvement. If you think that having your company associated with a pile of trash is bad, think again. There is no such thing as bad publicity.

---- ---- ----

One of the main issues with this project is aptly summarized by Prof. A.C. Davidson of the University of Huddersfield, who pointed out a paradox in my work—a contradiction that I have always been aware of.

"The root of the climate change problem can be traced to an instrumental relationship with materiality and human relations. To recover from the climate crisis equitably, we need to move away from economies and cultures where everything and everyone, including waste packaging (as highlighted by Policardo), is exploited for value extraction. Moreover, it is essential to challenge the cultural assumptions about our identity as a species in the Anthropocene. Grosz, by queering Darwin’s work, theorizes that art does not separate us from other species but aligns us with them. According to Grosz, art rooted in sexual selection transforms materials and environments based on desire and movement towards other ways of being, rather than mere survival.The capacity of visual culture to reveal the unseen and show in new light (instead of, or as well as, telling and informing) is emphasised in Policardo’s Branded trash: (In) voluntary product displacement. Photographs of discarded containers with sometimes faded and crumpled, but still clearly identifiable logos appear like still lives, carefully lit and staged like a product placement. Adding an air of glossy value to ‘worthless’ waste, these images raise awareness of – and in doing so are complicit within - the enduring, free advertising of litter. This project brings to light the circulation of value that not only spurs further ecological destruction but accumulates deeply uneven benefits and losses." →  AC Davidson, University of Huddersfield

---- ---- ---- ----

There is something fascinating about trash. It always catches your eye.

The power of a faded can of Pepsi left for years under the sun, next to a thriving bunch of mushrooms sitting peacefully in the woods next to my hometown, just a few kilometres from the border.

That’s my first memory of human dumped trash. 

The faded blue and the Pepsi logo, Pepsi - not Coca-Cola. Despite both brands coming to Yugoslavia at the end of the sixties, I always found Pepsi to be somewhat of a socialist drink. I thought, in fact, that Pepsi was only found in Yugoslavia; it had Yugoslav colours in its brand palette. I wonder if part of Pepsi’s success in Eastern Europe was down to a lucky colour combination. Or was Pepsi more popular in Eastern Europe altogether? Maybe I made it up, constructing a narrative around a childhood memory of a faded can of Pepsi found in the woods when I was probably 8 or 9.

That’s probably why I associate Pepsi with Yugoslavia to the point that, in my head, Coca-Cola never existed in Yugoslavia before 1990. Which is obviously not true. Coca-Cola was introduced in Yugoslavia in the late sixties, around the same time as Pepsi. This happened amidst controversies as both brands, with Coca-Cola taking the lead, have always been recognisable and widespread embodiments of American capitalism.

And then there’s the whole fascinating story about Cockta, the very native and very socialist alternative to imperialism disguised as a fizzy drink - or the other many replicas born as counter-imperialist drinks in pretty much any countries in Eastern Europe - pardon my generalisations. I hope you’ll just retain the gist of what I am getting at.

Sadly though, this is not a series about Yugo Nostalgia or Eastern European fizzy drinks. This is a series about litter and brands, and how much humanity is reflected in the trash it generates. Logo-bearing cans and packages are now everywhere, not only Coca Cola. The kingdom of logos and brands has permeated everything, from our society to more literally and practically our daily life, our streets, our oceans, our woods.

Branded Trash is not just simple trash. It is not just another environmental disaster.

Branded Trash is not just simple trash. It is not just another environmental disaster.

Branded trash is advertising.

Unpaid for by the brand, insidious and everywhere, a point of focus for our busy brains and eyes; endless product placement in the movies of our lives.

It doesn’t matter where I am now, or what my tastes are. Pepsi will always and overpoweringly taste of nostalgia.

[petnews2day]

‘LOCAL RSPCA’S K9 PARTY IN THE PARK 2024 IS BACK THIS JULY 7th!

New Post has been published on https://petn.ws/bK8gj

‘LOCAL RSPCA’S K9 PARTY IN THE PARK 2024 IS BACK THIS JULY 7th!

Watch more of our videos on Shots! and live on Freeview channel 276 Visit Shots! now The RSPCA Halifax, Huddersfield, Bradford & District branch are excited to be back in Manor Heath Park, Halifax on Sunday 7th from 11.00am-5pm, for their annual 21-class fun dog show – K9 Party In The Park 2024! The event, which […]

See full article at https://petn.ws/bK8gj #PetCharitiesNews

[fan-of-mulligan]

FOM BLOG - HOW IS GILLINGHAM’S FIRST TEAM SQUAD SHAPING UP SO FAR

We are in the early part of June, and at the time of writing this blog, Gillingham have made four signings, Striker Elliott Nevitt, Central Midfielder Armani Little, And Wingers Jack Nolan and Aaron Rowe, And looking at all four signings, Elliott Nevitt, Armani Little and Jack Nolan were offered new contracts by Crewe Alexandra, AFC Wimbledon and Accrington Stanley respectively, And it is important to mention that in Jack Nolan’s case, Gillingham will need to pay a compensation fee to Accrington Stanley, And Crewe Alexandra were hoping to sign Aaron Rowe on a permanent basis following his release from Huddersfield Town, because Aaron Rowe spent last season on loan at Crewe Alexandra, and one of the reasons why Gillingham perhaps were able to sign Aaron Rowe, is because Rowe lives in London, and geographical location was perhaps a contributing factor into how Gillingham were able to sign Aaron Rowe ahead of Crewe Alexandra.

But all four signings are good signings, and at good ages as well, Elliott Nevitt and Armani Little are both twenty seven years old, and both players are hitting the prime years of there football career, and Elliott Nevitt scored eighteen goals in fifty two appearances for Crewe Alexandra Last Season, And Gillingham desperately needed to add goals to this Gillingham Side throughout the summer transfer window, and Armani Little is described as a tenacious box to box central midfielder who’s stats were one of the highest in League Two for tackles and interceptions, and is also someone who can add energy to this Gillingham Side, again, a player who has got a attribute which Gillingham lacked at times throughout last season, especially when Dom Jefferies was unavailable due to injury.

And Aaron Rowe and Jack Nolan are both twenty three years old, both played regular first team football in League Two Last Season For Crewe Alexandra And Accrington Stanley, And In Aaron Rowe, Gillingham have signed a winger with a lot of pace, someone who is willing to take risks by taking players on, a player who can also play Right Back or Right Wing Back if required to do so, But Rowe has been signed specifically to play as a winger, and Gillingham desperately needed to add pace into this Gillingham Side, Because pace creates space for attacking and creative players to thrive in.

And regarding Jack Nolan, Gillingham have signed a player who scored seventeen goals and created thirteen assist’s last season, and looking into Jack Nolan’s stats on a deeper level, 382 crosses last season, which averages out to over ten crosses a match, 140 dribbles, which works out to almost four dribbles per match, and Key Passes eighty five, which works out to over two key passes per match, and these stats were achieved for A Accrington Stanley Side who finished seventeenth in League Two, and there were a few supporters of lower league sides thinking Jack Nolan would have signed for A League One Side, so by all accounts, Gillingham have signed a very good player, who also has room to grow and develop into a better player as well.

So with these four signings, how many players are there in Gillingham’s First Team Squad in the early part of June………

GOALKEEPERS: Jake Turner, Glenn Morris - Taite Holtam

DEFENDERS: Remeao Hutton, Max Ehmer, Conor Masterson, Shadrach Ogie, Robbie McKenzie, Max Clark - Alex Giles, Sam Gale

MIDFIELDERS: Armani Little, Ethan Coleman, Tim Dieng, Jonny Williams, Jayden Clarke, Aaron Rowe, Jack Nolan - Stan Skipper, Josh Bayliss

STRIKERS: Elliott Nevitt, Josh Andrews - Joe Gbode 

TRANSFER LISTED: Scott Malone, George Lapslie, Ashley Nadesan, Oli Hawkins

OFFERED CONTRACT: Dom Jefferies

And This Is How Gillingham’s First Team Squad Looks With The Twenty Two Over Twenty One Rule……

DEFENDERS: Remeao Hutton, Max Ehmer, Conor Masterson, Shadrach Ogie, Robbie McKenzie, Max Clark

MIDFIELDERS: Armani Little, Ethan Coleman, Tim Dieng, Jonny Williams, Jayden Clarke, Aaron Rowe, Jack Nolan 

STRIKERS: Elliott Nevitt, Josh Andrews 

Gillingham have a total of fifteen out-field players who count towards the twenty two over twenty one rule, so Gillingham can sign seven out-field players over the age of twenty one without deregistering anyone from the first team squad, and this rule, the twenty two over twenty one rule is a very new rule which has only been operating for two season’s now, is a rule that all clubs in League One and League Two have to pay close attention to, in The Championship, clubs can have twenty five out-field players who are twenty one or older, Goalkeepers are exempt from this rule, and players under the age of twenty one do not count towards this age restriction, so don’t have to be registered in the squad.

But with Scott Malone, George Lapslie, Ashley Nadesan and Oli Hawkins all under contract, and Gillingham unclear on the future of Dom Jefferies, that’s five players who if all added to the squad will take Gillingham up to twenty out-field players who qualify for the twenty two over twenty one rule, and Gillingham would be close to the limit, and this might be why Gillingham need Scott Malone, George Lapslie, Ashley Nadesan and Oli Hawkins to all move on to other clubs, not only to get the four players in question off the wage bill, because Mark Bonner doesn’t believe that all four will be getting much game-time for Gillingham next season, but also, to create space in the squad to sign over-aged players who are perhaps going to be more best suited for the way that Mark Bonner wants to line up next season.

And all four players are very good footballers, and George Lapslie and Oli Hawkins in particular were part of the squad that saw Gillingham retain there Football League Status, but if Mark Bonner is looking to sign players to fit into the systems and formations that he wants to play, then it is understandable why all four players are surplus to requirements, but there could also be a situation where not all four players move on and could still play a crucial role for Gillingham Football Club In The 2024 / 2025 Season

SO WHERE DO I THINK GILLINGHAM NEED TO STRENGTHEN THE SQUAD ???

I am going to make the assumption that Scott Malone, George Lapslie, Ashley Nadesan and Oli Hawkins will all leave Gillingham Football Club, and Dom Jefferies turns down a contract extension and opts to sign for another football club, which means that plenty of additions need to be added to the squad, in addition to Gillingham signing Elliott Nevitt, Armani Little, Jack Nolan and Aaron Rowe.

I think Gillingham need to make sure that almost everyone of those positions are covered for both the twenty two over twenty one rule, but also, make sure that all position’s in the squad are covered to ensure that Gillingham have got depth and quality right the way through the squad, so that Gillingham have got quality players in the starting eleven, quality players on the bench, and quality players outside the match-day squad as well, this is what Mansfield Town, Stockport County and Wrexham had in there squads, all three teams achieved automatic promotion into League One because they had quality players right the way through the squad, and that is what Gillingham need to replicate this summer heading into the 2024 / 2025 season, and when Gillingham were promoted as League Two Champions, Martin Allen could make five or six changes to the starting line up without there being any drop-off from the players who were rotated in and out of the starting line up.

I think Gillingham need to sign two wingers to provide cover and competition with Jack Nolan and Aaron Rowe, With Mark Bonner looking to line up with wingers for the 2024 / 2025 season, it’s important that Gillingham have got four quality wingers, two on the right, two on the left so that not only do Gillingham have quality players in the starting line up, but there are attacking options on the bench who can be game-changers who can turn a loss into a draw, or, a draw into a win, and this was something that Gillingham lacked at times during the 2023 / 2024 season, and hopefully, Gillingham can continue to addd to the squad, especially in the final third of the pitch.

I also wouldn’t rule out Gillingham signing one or two wingers who are similar to when Gillingham signed Ethan Coleman, Jayden Clarke and Ike Orji, players signed more as longer term signings who can still be in evolved with the first team as and when required to do so, and maybe the two winger suggested signings are players who can play for Gillingham in Kent Senior Cup and Football League Trophy Games, it’s a long season, you are going to get injuries and suspensions, and the last thing Gillingham want to happen is for Jack Nolan and Aaron Rowe to get injured, and we have two players who can step into the starting line up, but there are no attacking players who can be promoted on to the substitutes bench to provide additional cover.

If Ashley Nadesan and Oli Hawkins both leave, then Gillingham need to sign another striker, and maybe two strikers, but maybe one of the strikers is also a winger who can play anywhere out-wide and up-front just to provide Gillingham with some versatility, and a left back will also be needed if Scott Malone leaves Gillingham Football Club, and another midfielder with similar attributes to Armani Little, maybe someone younger with those attributes and a player who understands they are signed as understudy.

So all in all, I think Gillingham need to sign the following……..

Four Wingers - Two for the first team, two who might be more longer term signings

Two Strikers - One of the strikers in question could be a player who doubles up as one of the wingers and can be a versatile utility player, but Gillingham do need to sign another striker as cover and competition with Elliott Nevitt and Josh Andrews

A Left Back

A Central Midfielder

Squad depth is important now more so then ever, it used to be the case that two in each position and one or two for additional cover and your squad is set for the start of the season, But nineteen of the twenty four clubs in League Two had squad sizes of twenty five or higher last season, including Gillingham, who had a first team squad of thirty players, Wrexham and Forest Green Rovers had the join mist with thirty two players, and those two sides had completely opposite season’s, Wrexham achieving promotion into League One, Forest Green Rovers getting relegated into The National League.

So it will be interesting to see where Gillingham strengthen the squad between now and the start of the season, how many players are signed, and which position’s in the squad get strengthened, and I think even with the signings of Jack Nolan, Aaron Rowe and Elliott Nevitt, Gillingham will still be looking to strengthen the squad in the final third of the pitch, lack of goals scored has been a problem for the past three season’s, it’s a stat that needs improving on if Gillingham want to challenge for promotion, and I don’t think we are finished when it comes to incoming signings for attacking players.

I have spoken about Gillingham signing someone who can play out-wide and up-front and Mo Eisa who has been released by MK Dons could be a player that fits that description, MK Dons releasing Mo Eisa is certainly surprising, but Eisa is a player with ability, he can play on either flank or play up-front, and he is one possible signing that Gillingham could make between now and the start of the season.

But the work Gillingham have done in the transfer market is very impressive, all four signings strengthen area’s of the squad that need to be strengthened, and it be interesting to see what Gillingham do next in the transfer market, which could be dependent on out-going departures to create space in the squad for incoming signings.

[greendaystack]

Green Day live in Huddersfield, England (June 25, 2022) x

[callhippo21]

The duality of 81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe is one of its most compelling features

The duality of 81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe is one of its most compelling features, offering an exceptional lifestyle that beautifully merges the serenity of a secluded natural haven with the convenience and vibrancy of urban proximity. This rare balance makes the estate uniquely suited to cater to a wide range of preferences and lifestyles, enhancing the day-to-day experiences of its residents.

Natural Retreat

On the south side of the property, the sprawling acre of land, adorned with ancient trees and a riot of floral displays, provides a private retreat where one can immerse themselves in the peaceful rhythms of nature. Here, residents can engage in reflective solitude or active rejuvenation. The meticulously designed landscape includes a variety of outdoor spaces tailored for relaxation and entertainment: from quiet nooks ideal for meditation to expansive lawns perfect for family gatherings or celebratory events.

The southern terraces and garden rooms of the estate are specifically designed to maximize the enjoyment of this natural setting. These areas become lively centers of household activity during the warmer months, with doors opening wide to blend indoor and outdoor living spaces seamlessly. Whether hosting a summer barbecue, enjoying an afternoon of reading in the garden, or practicing morning yoga under the canopy of trees, residents find this part of the estate an ever-inviting escape from the fast pace of modern life.

Urban Connectivity

Conversely, the north-facing end of the estate captures a different essence—a vibrant, energetic interface with the world. The proximity to the busy Wakefield to Huddersfield road is not merely a practical convenience but also a dynamic contrast to the tranquility found just steps away. This easy access ensures that residents can quickly integrate into the bustling life of nearby cities, attend business meetings, enjoy cultural outings, or explore shopping districts, all within minutes from their serene home.

The road-facing side of the property also provides the psychological comfort of connectivity. For those who thrive on the energy of a busy environment, the sight and sounds of the road can be invigorating and reassuring. It's a constant reminder that while the estate offers a retreat, it does not require a compromise on accessibility or the excitement of city life.

Holistic Lifestyle

Combining these two contrasting but complementary aspects, 81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe is not just a residence but a holistic lifestyle choice. The estate is ideal for those who desire the peace that a natural setting provides but also value the ability to stay active and engaged with the wider world. This blend appeals particularly to families, professionals, and retirees who seek a base that supports both a calm and collected domestic life and an active, socially-engaged existence.

Moreover, the estate’s commitment to sustainability and community integration ensures that residents not only live in a beautiful setting but also contribute positively to their environment and local community. This includes participating in local events, supporting conservation efforts, and maintaining the property as a green space that benefits both people and wildlife.

In essence, 81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe offers a rare opportunity to experience the best of both worlds—nestled in nature’s calm while being a stone's throw from urban life's conveniences. It’s a place where every sunrise brings a promise of peace and every roadway leads to new opportunities, making it an ideal home for those who cherish both solitude and society.

[amateurtraveler23]

81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe stands as a unique testament

81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe stands as a unique testament to the harmonious blend of tranquility and connectivity, offering its residents the best of both worlds. Nestled in a lush landscape, the estate spans over an acre of private land where majestic trees and meticulously maintained gardens create an unrivaled sense of serenity, particularly on the south-facing end of the property. This area is a secluded paradise, perfect for those moments when one wishes to retreat from the world and immerse themselves in the quiet beauty of nature.

The southern end of the estate is designed to be a peaceful haven where residents can relax and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Comfortable seating areas, scenic viewpoints, and gentle pathways meander through the tall trees and vibrant greenery, inviting peaceful contemplation or leisurely walks. The layout encourages outdoor activities such as reading, yoga, or enjoying meals in the open air, all surrounded by the soothing sounds and sights of a private woodland.

In contrast, the north-facing end of the estate presents a completely different aspect. Here, the property borders the busy Wakefield to Huddersfield road, a vital artery that connects the area to the broader region. This road buzzes with activity, its steady flow of vehicles providing a lifeline to the hustle and bustle of the nearby towns and cities. The proximity to this road means that residents can easily access essential services and amenities, reach the town center, or connect to major motorways like the M1 or M62 within just 5 to 10 minutes.

This juxtaposition of the estate's tranquil south end and its active north end is indeed rare, offering a lifestyle that can cater to varying moods and needs. On one hand, the estate is a retreat, a place to unwind and disconnect from the stresses of modern life; on the other, it provides quick and convenient access to urban life, ensuring that residents never feel isolated, even during the quietest winter days.

The design of the estate takes full advantage of its unique positioning. Windows and terraces on the north side offer views of the bustling road, a reminder of the world moving at pace just beyond the gates. This feature can be especially comforting in the colder months when activity within the estate slows down. Watching the traffic can provide a sense of connection and continuity with the outside world, an unusual but welcome feature for those who might otherwise feel the weight of solitude.

The integration of these two contrasting environments within one property makes 81 Quarry Hill, Stone Cliffe an exceptionally appealing choice for those who appreciate both nature's tranquility and the convenience of modern living. It allows residents to enjoy a quiet morning walk in the private woods and then switch to the dynamic world outside, ready to engage with the day’s demands. This ability to live in a secluded, natural setting while remaining well-connected to urban life is a precious rarity, making the estate not just a place to live, but a place to thrive in every sense.