#career forum NY

[linkablewritingadvice]

Questions About Publishing

There is a LOT of misinformation and confusion in online writing forums about getting published.

In general, if you are asking a question about publishing before finishing your manuscript, you are getting ahead of yourself and overthinking something. None of this stuff matters in the early stages. Don’t fuss around asking strangers on the internet about random aspects of the publishing world. Spend that time writing. Worry about how publishing works once you’re done.

Even worrying about “if I write XYZ, can that get published?” - if you’re not a working genre fiction writer who is writing to market, don’t worry about it. Read what’s being published in that genre, and spend your energy on your manuscript. 

Note that all this advice is for publishing novels - for info on short stories and poems, see the bottom of this post.

When it comes to publishing a novel, in short, there are two ways to do it. The first one, which is what most people think of when they say “getting published,” is traditional publishing. The way this works is:

Steps To Traditional Publishing

Step One: Author completes a manuscript. The length of this manuscript will be dictated by the realities of what it takes to tell your story, and what the market in general is looking for (basic info here).

Step Two: Author polishes and edits manuscript. This could include developmental editing, which looks at your plot, structure, overall story, etc. and copy editing, which checks for grammar and spelling mistakes.

It is possible to hire services for this, but it’s not generally required. If you can have a trusted friend go over it or find a fellow writer to swap this sort of work with, that’s also fine. Do not believe that in order to have a shot at getting an agent, you need to spend hundreds of dollars on a third party editing service.

Step Three: Author develops a query package. You will need to write a query letter for your book, which explains what your book is about, what genre it’s in, and what currently popular books are similar to it. Some agents also want to see things like a blurb (a teaser/hook for your book) or synopsis (detailed summary of the entire plot).

Query letters are hard! But they are easier to do once your book is done, so don’t fuss about it until you’re done writing. When it’s time, here are resources for writing your query:

Query Shark

How to write an awesome query letter

NY Book Editors query letter advice

Step Four: Author queries agents with their manuscript. There are directories that will tell you what agents are accepting queries, and in what genres, and what type of books they’re looking for. There will be information about what the agent wants to see (query letter, length of synopsis, first few pages), and how they want it to be formatted and sent.

Find agents that seem like a good fit, and take the time to tailor a query package based on what they want to see. Use a spreadsheet to keep track of who you have sent queries to and when. Here are some good sites to find agents:

Manuscript Wish List

Publishers Marketplace

Agent Query

Poets & Writers Agent Database

Step Five: Patience. It takes a while to hear back from agents. Some may turn you down outright, while others might request a full manuscript to read.

If you get an offer of representation from an agent, you do not need to accept it immediately. Look over the contract they would have you sign, and make sure you understand and accept its terms. Chat with them about your career goals and ask lots of questions. Ask if you can speak with other authors they represent. Let any other agents who currently have your query package know right away that you have gotten an offer, and give them time to make a competing offer. 

Step Six: Having an agent. Once you have an agent, they will help you deal with everything from there on out. They will pitch your book to publishers and help represent you when dealing with publishing contracts. Marketing and publicity, launch and debut, cover art, adaptation rights, etc. You will not need to ask people on the internet for advice on this or worry about doing it yourself. 

You may not get an agent! If everyone you send a query to turns you down, you might need to revise your query package or look for different agents. It’s a tough process - but it’s very doable once you have a solid, polished, finished manuscript. And there are some publishers that will accept un-agented submissions - this is called the “slush pile,” and it’s an even rougher go than getting an agent.

Note that at no point during this traditional publishing journey should you need to shell out large amounts of cash. Money flows to the author, never away from the author. You do not need to worry about paying an artist to make you a cover, or paying for things like social media and marketing. 

The other form of publishing is self publishing, sometimes called indie publishing. In this format, you publish your book yourself using a platform like Amazon Kindle. You are then responsible for marketing, publicity, cover art, editing, formatting, etc. There are some people who make a lot of money doing this, but they spend a lot of time putting out frequent, consistent books in very in-demand genres. Self publishing a single novel, especially one in a less commercial genre, will likely not lead to much attention or money.

Steps to Self Publishing

Step One: Complete your manuscript.

Step Two: Edit and polish your manuscript. Since you are not going to have access to the resources of a large publishing company, you may wish to pay for editing services. However, keep track of these costs and be realistic about your choices.

Step Three: Research the market. Look at similar books on Amazon, Goodreads, BookBub, and bookish social media. Notice what types of tags and keywords people are using. Understand how people are presenting and marketing similar books.

Step Four: Develop assets. You will need an ebook cover and a print option cover if you want to make that available. You will also need to format your book for print and e-readers. You will also want to have an author website, possibly a newsletter, and social media presence. Some of this may cost money, especially if you want to hire an artist for your cover or use powerful social media tools. This is not the same as paying a publisher to publish your book. 

Step Five: Build pre-launch buzz for your book. Connect with similar authors and readers on social media. Consider recruiting ARC readers and reviewers using websites like BookSprout or Book Sirens. Again, some of this might cost money for tools or services. Keep track of your costs and don’t go overboard. 

Step Six: Launch your book. Many authors use the Kindle platform for this. There are pros and cons to their Kindle Unlimited program, so do your research. Use well researched keywords, tags, and strong promotional copy. Make sure it is added to Goodreads and BookBub. Consider ad campaigns on social media.

Step Seven: Repeat, repeat, repeat. Making money as a self published author requires consistent output. Write and publish more books. Keep up your social media, blog, or newsletter. Keep an eye on trends in your genre. Participate in online communities and avenues to getting more eyeballs, like BookFunnel promotions.

Resources on self publishing:

Jane Friedman's guide to self publishing

Self publishing vs traditional publishing

How do you successfully self publish?

Dabble Writer self publishing guide

Paying For Publishing

You may see references to “vanity presses” or “hybrid” publishing. THESE ARE A SCAM. Basically, these are companies that pretend to be publishers, and say that they are willing to publish your book, but require you to pay them for things like printing costs, marketing, editing, etc. This is not a good way to get your book published, because you will spend more money than your book will make.

There is no prestige in “getting published” this way, because the publisher isn’t taking the highest quality books, but just whoever can pay them. And they will not be invested in your success, because you have already paid them. It is unlikely that they will get your book into bookstores or have the ability to help you rank high in Amazon and other searches. 

If a publisher reaches out to you rather than you submitting to them, they are a scam. If a publisher asks you to front the costs for putting your book out, they are a scam. And if you do “publish” a book with one of these places, that will kill your ability to get it published elsewhere, because most legitimate publishers require first rights.

Beware, also, of self-styled gurus that will tell you how to make tons of money in self publishing if you only buy their course or sign up for their services on how to run the perfect ad campaign or become a seven figure indie author.

Always check Writer Beware before getting involved with any sort of publishing scheme.

[cinema-tv-etc]

Mutt 2023

Fena, a young trans guy bustling through life in New York City, is afflicted with an incessantly challenging day that resurrects ghosts from his past. Laundromats, subway turnstiles, and airport transfers are the hectic background to this emotional drama that overlaps past, present, and future. Settling the disharmony of transitional upheaval in relationships familial, romantic, and platonic is Fena2s task at hand, and his resulting juggling act is equal parts skillful, fumbling, and honest. In negotiating his obliqueness, the poignant moments he finds between himself and others as the distance between them closes are warm, true, and touching

Q&A with MUTT Filmmaker Vuk Lungulov-Klotz and Stars Lío Mehiel, Cole Doman & MiMi Ryder

Chilean and Serbian immigrants, he was raised between Chile, the US, and Serbia. As a transgender storyteller, he hopes to expand queer narratives. His work focuses on intimate moments we often miss if we're not looking. Mutt is his debut feature film. With his feature film script, MUTT, he is an alum of the Sundance Institute Labs, the Inside Out Financing Forum, and was a top five finalist for the Tribeca / AT&T Untold Stories Grant. His award winning trans-themed short film, "Still Liam," played at festivals internationally and earned the attention of celebrated queer filmmakers Ira Sachs and Silas Howard, who have both become mentors. Vuk is also an alum of the Ryan Murphy HALF Initiative Program, where he completed a mentorship under director Janet Mock on the FX series POSE. He lives in Brooklyn, NY.

Lío Mehiel is a Puerto Rican and Greek artist, actor, and filmmaker. Their work spans film, television, multimedia installation, theater, and events. They are fascinated by the inherent contradiction of the trans experience — one deeply rooted in the body while also transcending beyond the body. Lío began their career as a professional salsa dancer and child actor on Broadway. They can now be seen on shows like WeCrashed (Apple+) and Tales of the City (Netflix). MUTT is their feature film debut. As a filmmaker, Lío produced Chaperone, a queer short film which premiered at Sundance 2022. They wrote, directed, produced, and starred in Disforia, a short film which premiered at Outfest Film Festival in 2018. They are now stuck inside of a psychomagic act with this story as they write the feature script version and confront their own medical transition. As an installation artist, their immersive piece Arcade Amerikana was included in the list of 10 Best Immersive Shows in NYC by Time Out and GOTHAMIST. Lío is currently the producer and creative director of Angels, a developing collection of stone sculptures of transgender humans. The works were first featured as part of a pop-up installation at Outfest LA in 2022, and will be debuted in full at SIZED Gallery LA in 2023. Lío is a co-founder of Voyeur Productions with Russell Kahn and Dulcinee DeGuere. They attended Northwestern University, and are an alumni of the Emerge NYC residency program for artists and activists. Photo credit: Jordan Rossi

Cole Doman is a trained stage and film actor living in Brooklyn, NY. During his time in Chicago, he studied at the School at Steppenwolf under Amy Morton, Tarell Alvin McCraney, Michael Patrick Thornton, and more. Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune named Cole among the "Hot New Faces of Chicago Theater" in 2016. He made his film debut as the titular role in the critically acclaimed HENRY GAMBLE'S BIRTHDAY PARTY directed by Stephen Cone. He has profiles with IndieWire, Brooklyn Magazine, OUT, Milk.xyz, and was featured as one of "Best Breakout Performances of 2016" by The Film Stage. He can also be seen in Alan Ball's UNCLE FRANK (Sundance 2020, Amazon Studios) as young Frank Bledsoe played by Paul Bettany. On television he has appeared in Let the Right One In, Gossip Girl, Modern Family, Law & Order: SVU, Chicago PD, Equal, and Shameless. He developed & stars in the short film Starfuckers (MUBI) directed by Antonio Marziale which was presented in competition at Sundance Film Festival, Berlinale, and Telluride Film Festival. Other forthcoming films include: Matt Fifer’s sophomore feature TREATMENT for AMC’s Shudder and Zia Anger’s debut feature MY FIRST FILM for MUBI. Mostrecently, he starred in the world premiere of Your Own Personal Exegesis by Julia May Jonas at Lincoln Center Theatre, directed by Annie Tippe, for which his performance was lauded by The New York Times and even cartooned by The New Yorker.

[mybeingthere]

Gwendolyn Knight, New Orleans

Silkscreen on paper

Support size: 22 x 20 inches; Image size: 16 1/2 x 14 1/2 inches 2002

Gwendolyn Knight (1913 – 2005) was an American artist who was born in Bridgetown, Barbados in the West Indies. Knight met Jacob Lawrence in 1934 while they were art students in Harlem, NY and they married in 1941. Throughout their 59 year marriage, Knight and Lawrence were each other’s most valued critic. Knight attended Wadleigh High School, one of the few integrated schools in New York and one with a reputation for good scholarship. She study painting in New York under Augusta Savage, and her first formal study of art came at Howard University, where she studied with the painter Lois Maillou Jones and with printmaker James Lesesne Wells. Like Jacob Lawrence, throughout her career Gwen Knight remained unswayed by abstract expressionism and other trends that moved through the art world.

Though she shared Lawrence’s interest in figuration, her method was more spontaneous and her subject matter more personal. She charted her own creative path in a characteristically independent way. A lifelong artist, Knight supported Jacob’s career, and chose not to participate in art exhibits until 1967. That year, her work was included in “Portrayal of the Negroes in American Painting,” at the Forum Gallery in New York, along with works by Hughie Lee-Smith, Raymond Saunders, Ernest Crichlow, and Jacob Lawrence. In 1971, when Jacob was offered a full-time tenured position at the University of Washington, they moved to Seattle. Knight’s first retrospective was put on when she was nearly 90 years old (“Never Late for Heaven: The Art of Gwen Knight,” at the Tacoma Art Museum, 2003)

In Seattle, Gwen Knight Lawrence became an active member of the cultural community, serving on committees of the Urban League and the Seattle Chapter of the Links, as a member of the King County Arts Commission, and on numerous arts panels and juries. A few years after moving to Seattle, she joined the Francine Seders gallery, which also represented Jacob Lawrence. Knight’s first solo exhibition was at the Seattle Art Museum in 1976. From the mid-1970s onward, her work gained a growing audience and recognition in the Northwest and beyond, with exhibits in venues in Georgia, Oregon, and Washington, D.C. Ms. Knight continued working until 2001, turning in her late work to a series of lyrical mono-prints that captured her interest in improvisation and movement.

During the course of her career, she received many awards, including the National Honor Award, and two honorary doctorate degrees. In 2003, a retrospective of her work appeared at the Tacoma Art Museum and at DC Moore Gallery in New York City, which represents both Ms. Knight and Mr. Lawrence. Gwendolyn Knight Lawrence died in Seattle on February 18, 2005 at the age of 92. Artist Statement “I am not an innovator or an artist concerned with intellectual process I don’t rely on external definitions of success or with the mastery of an other-defined program. I paint for my own pleasure, for the connection it affords to creative life.”

https://eandsgallery.com/product-category/gwen-knight/

[fashionbooksmilano]

Willy Rizzo

published to accompany the Exhibitions in New York and London : Mallett NY 4-13 October 2007, Paul Smith London 15-24 November 2007, 76 pages, 23x30cm,

euro 40,00

email if you want to buy booksinprogressmilano@yahoo.it

Willy Rizzo (22 October 1928- 25 February 2013) was an Italian photographer and designer. Born in Naples, Willy Rizzo started his career as a photographer in Paris very early in the 40s. Great photographer of personalities, fashion and great reports, he has exhibited all over the world: at Galerie Agathe Gaillard in Paris, at Galerie Bukamura in Tokyo, at Maison de la Photographie in Moscow, at Mallett gallery in New York and London, at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco, or even at the MUBE in Sao Paulo. In 1968, he moved to Rome and began his work as designer for his personal needs because, according to him, "Scandinavian furniture were neither comfortable enough for luxurious enough. " When asked, he creates his workshops in 1970 and launched its points of sale worldwide. "Imagination and strong modern style" are the words that define his style. Today his Elliptical marble table is exhibited at MoMA in New York. After being married to model and actress Elsa Martinelli from 1968 to 1978 Willy Rizzo married Dominique Rizzo in 1979. Together they had three children, Willy Jr, Camilla and Gloria. In 2009, they opened the Willy Rizzo Design and Photography Studio at 12 rue de Verneuil in Paris 7e. Willy Rizzo died in 2013 but his Studio continued to support his work through exhibitions and numerous projects.

20/12/23

[allcnaprograms]

Open Your Future: Top CNA Night Classes for Flexible Healthcare Careers

Unlock Your Future: Top CNA Night Classes for Flexible Healthcare Careers

Are you considering a⁤ career in healthcare but worried about rigid schedules? Look no ⁤further! Becoming ⁤a ‍Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is‍ a fantastic way ‌to enter the ⁣healthcare field ‍with⁢ flexibility that accommodates your lifestyle. In⁣ this article,⁤ we will explore the best CNA night classes available, their benefits, practical tips to succeed, and share inspiring case studies to help you unlock your future in healthcare.

Why Choose ‍CNA Night Classes?

CNA night classes are tailored ​for those who have daytime commitments, such as work or family. Here are some compelling ‍reasons why you ⁢should consider a night⁢ class program:

Flexible ‌Scheduling: Night classes allow you to study without compromising your daytime responsibilities.

Hands-On Experience: Many programs include practical training that is crucial for real-world ‌application.

Supportive ‌Learning Environment: Evening classes often attract motivated students who ⁤are serious about their education.

Networking Opportunities: You’ll connect with peers and instructors, which can lead to‍ job opportunities.

Top CNA Night ⁢Classes to Consider

Below are some of the top-rated CNA night classes offered across the country:

Institution

Location

Duration

Cost

Certification

ABC Nursing School

New York, NY

8 weeks

$1,200

State Certified

Care Training Academy

Chicago, IL

6 weeks

$900

National Certified

Healthcare Pathways

Los Angeles, CA

10 weeks

$1,500

State Certified

Collegiate Nursing‌ Institute

Miami, FL

7 weeks

$1,050

National Certified

These ‌programs offer evening classes designed with your schedule in mind, allowing you to balance work ‍and studies⁢ effectively.

Benefits of Becoming a CNA

Choosing⁢ to⁣ become a Certified Nursing⁤ Assistant comes ‍with‌ multiple benefits:

Job Stability: The demand for CNAs is consistently high, ensuring job security.

Career Advancement: CNAs can pursue further education in nursing or specialized healthcare areas.

Personal Fulfillment: Working with patients and ⁤making a ⁤difference in their lives‌ can ​be incredibly rewarding.

Practical Tips for Succeeding ‌in CNA⁢ Night Classes

To ensure your success in CNA night classes, consider the following practical tips:

Stay⁤ Organized: Keep track of your schedule, assignments, and ⁤class materials.

Utilize Online Resources: Take advantage of online study ‍materials and forums for additional help.

Practice Skills Regularly: Find opportunities ���to practice crucial nursing skills�� outside of class hours.

Build Relationships: Connect with your ​instructors and classmates ‍for support and networking.

First-Hand Experiences: Success Stories

Many who have taken ‍the leap into CNA night ⁢classes⁢ have found tremendous success.⁣ Here’s a brief ⁣look ⁢at some inspiring stories:

Case Study 1: Laura’s ⁤Transition to Nursing

After working for years in a‌ retail job, Laura decided to pursue her passion for ​healthcare. ​She enrolled in night classes at Care Training Academy and ⁣completed her program in just six weeks. Laura now works as ​a‌ CNA at a local hospital and is pursuing her nursing⁤ degree, showing how night classes can indeed ⁣change⁣ lives.

Case Study 2: Robert’s Journey from Unemployment

Facing unemployment, Robert⁣ chose to enroll in CNA night classes at ABC‌ Nursing School. With ‌the flexibility of evening classes, he‍ secured a job shortly after completing his certification. Today, he​ works in⁣ a nursing home and advocates for others ‍to ⁤pursue similar paths in healthcare with‍ night schooling.

Future Opportunities in ​Healthcare

As a CNA, you have numerous pathways⁤ to grow within the healthcare sector. From specializing in pediatrics to transitioning to a registered nurse, embracing CNA night classes can serve ⁣as a significant stepping stone toward your career ‌advancement. Here are some potential career paths:

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Registered Nurse (RN)

Home Health Aide

Healthcare Administrator

Conclusion

Embarking⁣ on a CNA career through night⁤ classes ⁤offers a flexible ‌and rewarding option for those looking to break into the healthcare field. With the right program, practical ⁤tips for success, and an inspiring community, you can transition to a fulfilling career that makes a difference in countless lives.‍ Start ‍your journey today by researching local​ CNA night classes, and unlock a brighter ⁣future in⁤ healthcare.

https://allcnaprograms.com/open-your-future-top-cna-night-classes-for-flexible-healthcare-careers/

[writemarcus]

Playwrights Selected For Garden State New Play Festival

This collective of writers was carefully selected from an extensive submission and outreach process to honor the mission of JCTC, and to realize the goals of The GSNPF.

By: A.A. Cristi Oct. 28, 2024

Jersey City Theater Center (JCTC) and The New Jersey Play Lab (NJPL), in partnership with the Department of Theatre and Dance's BA Theatre Studies Program at Montclair State University, have announced the collective of playwrights selected for participation in the inaugural year of The Garden State New Play Festival (GSNPL).

The diverse collective of playwrights include:

Yangzhou (Yao) Bian Sichuan; China (Binghamton University, NY)

Khadija Diop; Jersey City, NJ

Boris Franklin; Highland Park, NJ

Gabriel Diego Hernández; Jersey City, NJ

Vincent Langan; Union, NJ

Rossella Lopez; Bayonne, NJ

Elijah Maldonado; Belleville, NJ

Palesa Mazamisa; Johannesburg, South Africa

Tiffany McQueary; Jersey City, NJ

Cynthia Mellon; Newark, NJ

Francisco Mendoza; Brooklyn, NY

Dave Osmundsen; Denville NJ

Syd Rushing; Raleigh, NC

Marcus Scott; West New York, NJ

Dylan Zwickel; New York, NY

For more information on these writers, visit The NJPL website.

For a Full pass to the festival, visit www.jctcenter.org.

This collective of writers was carefully selected from an extensive submission and outreach process to honor the mission of JCTC, and to realize the goals of The GSNPF: Community, Festivity, Advocacy, Sustainability, and Artistic Equity.

As artistic institutions in a rapidly changing world, it is incumbent upon us to constantly question whether our work is truly being created, developed, and produced in service of our community, and assess whether or not our work is reaching audiences in a meaningful, impactful manner.

The GSNPF was conceived around a new strategy of blending community and artistic development in which community members are given access to create art not just consume art, resulting in an understanding and celebration of the opportunity for individual and collective growth inherent in the process of new play development.

The Collective of Playwrights participating in the GSNPF include both emerging and early career playwrights, Jersey City Community Members working in the non-profit and advocacy sector, International Artists both from abroad and from our local immigrant communities, college students, and high school students. Each of their plays focuses around an aspect of social justice.

The Garden State New Play Festival will take place on May 1st-4th and 8th-11th, 2025 at Jersey City Theatre Center.

Over the course of the six months leading up to the Festival, each writer will embark on an individualized dramaturgical track to further develop their play for presentation at the Festival. Woven into each track will be an interactive forum with a local community group or organization selected according to the lens of social justice through which the play has been conceived.

Concurrently to the individualized play development tracks, a schedule of workshops, exchanges, classroom visits, play readings, and public events, will take place between November and May, and be open to all Festival participants, including writers, actors, dramaturgs, directors, and community leaders.

The goal is that by the time the Festival itself opens, hundreds of artists and community members will have collaborated and contributed to this process of new play development, and personally experienced the power of the written word for the stage.

The GSNPF offers a new model for a new play festival that brings together artists of all career levels without barriers of hierarchy, and blurs the lines between artist and audience, all while respecting the integrity of each individual artist's craft and experience. This model frames the art of playmaking as a means of expression and advocacy, and as a tool for deeper understanding of self and one's community, and dismantles barriers to producing full productions of new plays by cultivating a vibrant ecosystem that values and champions the power of playmaking.

The Garden State New Play Festival is supported by a grant from the NJ State Council on the Arts, Project Serving Artists grant.

[creativemorningsvirginiabeach]

NEXT UP!

VISION: Collaborators Anita Patel and Stephanie Walters Talk about building creative connections, community and belonging.

Oct 18, 2024 • 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM EDT • The Garage VB FREE AND OPEN TO ALL. Please RSVP to save your seat.

FREE Parking at Hearth 605 Virginia Beach Boulevard across the street from The Garage VB event space.

Light refreshments provided. Come network with your creative community.

This event is supported in part by grants to the ViBe Creative District nonprofit from Virginia Commission for the Arts, NEA Arts and the Virginia Beach Arts & Humanities Commission.

About the speakers

Anita is a creative producer, community builder and strategic partner. She currently leads Special Projects at YELLOW.

She is passionate about building impactful initiatives through a multi-disciplinary approach and has led MarComm projects on local, national, and global scales. With over 20 years of leadership in brand development and social impact campaigns, Anita has led initiatives and special projects for Gordon Ramsay, Zaha Hadid and spent 7 years honing her craft at Louis Vuitton Europe, Louis Vuitton Americas and thereafter independently for brands across the LVMH and Kering portfolios, as well as a range of Fortune 500 organizations.

As a graduate of the Scripps Howard School of Journalism and Communications at Hampton University, TV Host and Producer Stephanie (Steph) Walters has edified her skills in journalism, storytelling, and production through education and experience. From moderating empowerment and lifestyle panels and hosting at music festivals and conferences, to covering fashion week shows and reporting on live red carpets, Stephanie is a dynamic talent who brings out the depth and intriguing personality in those she interviews. Following college, Stephanie became the co-host of ‘The View From Hampton U’ and created her own lifestyle TV show, Montage, airing on several public access stations around the country including Atlanta (GA), Washington, D.C., Manhattan (NY), and Fresno (CA). Stephanie frequently hosts fashion, beauty, empowerment and food lifestyle TV segments on local and national NBC, FOX, and CBS affiliates. Stephanie is the creator and host of Before Brunch, a television show with a mission of women ‘Pouring Into Each Other, Then Their Glasses.’ Believing that we are all connected in some way, Steph has purposed Before Brunch as a space for women to not feel like they’re alone in their thinking, current state of life, or their past experiences, engaging guests in thought-provoking conversations that we typically have behind closed doors.

Alongside her media career, Stephanie is also the Director of Engagement & Communications for YELLOW, a 501©(3) non-profit founded by musician, producer, and philanthropist Pharrell Williams whose mission is to EVEN THE ODDS through education. In her role at YELLOW, Stephanie is responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships between community and civic organizations; developing and implementing special projects at the local and national level; creating hyperlocal community activations; and curating YELLOW’s digital footprint and internal and external press, currently hosting their conversation series, Bright Sparks Live, which has now expanded to different parts of the United States and has been hosted at Netflix Studios (Fall 2023) and SXSWEdu (Spring 2024). Stephanie’s skills have been displayed locally and nationally: she was the host for More Than The Music conversations for Pharrell’s inaugural Something In The Water Festival (SITW and; host of the It Takes a Community conversations in Washington D.C. at the 2nd annual SITW; a host, moderator, and Voice of God for the Mighty Dream Forum; a 2021 panel host for the National Urban League’s Annual Conference; a red carpet correspondent for Philo TV at TVOne’s 2024 Urban One Honors; and moderator for Starz’s Take The Lead: Transparency Talks, to name a few. She also served as the Head of Media Relations + Communications for the inaugural Cousinz Festival in Norfolk, VA, co-founded by rappers Pusha T and Fam-Lay. In August 2023, Stephanie launched her company, Dream Pusher, which is a story-telling + vision-building studio to help women reclaim and accomplish their dreams through content creation, media training, and lifestyle and empowerment workshops, now located inside The Mustard Seed Place. Stephanie is a 2021 inductee in Hampton University’s 40 Under 40; a member of Norfolk State University’s School of Education Advisory Board; an Advisory Board Member of the Cash In Grad Out Foundation; and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and GirlFriends, Inc.

[hayleycna]

Open Your Future: Top CNA Classes in NY for Aspiring Caregivers

**Title: Unlock Your Future: Top CNA Classes in NY for Aspiring Caregivers**

**Introduction:**

If you are⁤ passionate‍ about helping others and looking for ⁤a rewarding career in healthcare,⁣ becoming a⁢ Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) could be the ⁤perfect fit for you. CNAs play a crucial⁤ role⁤ in ⁤providing basic ⁢care to⁢ patients in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals,⁣ nursing homes, ‌and assisted ⁣living facilities. To kickstart your career⁤ as a CNA, it’s essential⁣ to enroll in‌ a reputable training program. In this article, we will explore the top CNA classes in New York for aspiring ‌caregivers.

**Top CNA Classes in NY:**

1. **The Allen ⁣School of Health Sciences:** ‍- Location: Brooklyn, Queens, and Jamaica, NY ‍- Program Length: 4-6 weeks – Highlights:⁤ Hands-on training, flexible schedules,⁣ job placement assistance

2. **Long Island EOC Farmingdale State ⁣College:** – Location: Farmingdale, ⁢NY ⁣ – Program Length:⁣ 8 weeks – Highlights: Affordable tuition, ⁤state-of-the-art facilities, experienced instructors

3.⁤ **Hostos Community College:** ⁢- Location: Bronx, NY ⁢ – Program ​Length: 12 weeks – Highlights: Small⁤ class sizes, comprehensive curriculum, clinical⁢ experience

4. **Briarcliffe College:** – ‍Location: Bethpage, NY – Program Length: 6-8 weeks – Highlights: Accelerated program, career services support, online options

**Benefits of CNA Classes:**

– Gain essential skills: CNA classes provide you with the knowledge and hands-on training needed to excel in a healthcare⁢ setting. – Job opportunities: With the growing demand ‌for healthcare professionals, completing ‍a CNA program ⁤can ⁤lead to a stable and fulfilling career. – Personal fulfillment: As a CNA, you will have the opportunity ‌to make a positive impact on the⁢ lives of patients ​and their families.

**Practical Tips ‌for Aspiring CNAs:**

– Research ⁢different CNA programs ⁢to find​ one that suits your schedule and budget. – Stay‌ organized and ‍dedicated to your studies to succeed in your CNA training. – Utilize ⁣resources such as study groups and online forums to enhance your learning⁢ experience.

**Conclusion:**

Embarking on a career as a Certified Nursing ⁢Assistant can open doors to a fulfilling and meaningful profession ‍in the healthcare industry. By enrolling in one of the top CNA classes in ​New York, you⁣ can acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to excel ⁢in this rewarding field. Remember to choose a program that meets your needs ​and aligns with your career goals. With dedication​ and hard work, you can unlock a bright future as a compassionate caregiver.

https://cnatrainingcertification.org/open-your-future-top-cna-classes-in-ny-for-aspiring-caregivers/

[chrisryanspeaks]

SEE: Alt Rock | King Krule - “Flimsier” + Tour

King Krule releases “Flimsier,” the opening track from his highly anticipated forthcoming album Space Heavy, which gets a full release this Friday via Matador Records. The new single comes alongside a visualizer created by Archy’s long-time collaborator and brother, Jack Marshall. “Filmsier” is the final single to be revealed from Space Heavy, following the acclaimed singles “Seaforth” and “If Only It Was Warmth.” The track first sparked a frenzy in fans last year, when King Krule debuted it during his performance at Primavera Sound. Then again, when it resurfaced via exclusive flexi-discs sold at King Krule’s SHHH Tour in April - an intimate run of shows across the US, UK, and EU that sold out in under 2 minutes. The single became a fan favourite, racking up hundreds of thousands of streams via fan videos on YouTube. After a year of waiting, “Filmsier” gets an official release today. On Friday of this week, King Krule will release Space Heavy in full. The 15-track full-length inhabits the deepest reaches of the subterranean sonic world that Archy Marshall has constructed over the course of his career as King Krule. Written over the course of commutes between London and Liverpool, where Archy was splitting his time, he found himself fascinated by the notion of “the space between”; the space haunted by dreams of love, lost connection, losing people and situations to the guillotine of the universe. Once written by Archy, the music was developed by frequent collaborator Dilip Harris and long-time band mates Ignacio Salvadores (Saxophonist), George Bass (Drummer), James Wilson (Bass Guitarist) and Jack Towell (Guitarist). The result sees King Krule stepping into the height of their artistic powers; using his years of experience to create a dynamic body of work that reveals something new with every listen. See “Flimsier” below: Upcoming Tour Dates: North America: 7/21 - Minneapolis, MN @ First Ave 7/22 - Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Musical Festival 7/23 - Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre 7/25 - Toronto, ON CAN @ History 7/26 - Montreal, QC, CAN @ Corona Theatre (SOLD OUT) 7/28 - Boston, MA @ House of Blues 7/29 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club (SOLD OUT) 7/30 - Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer (SOLD OUT) 8/1 - Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre (SOLD OUT) 8/2 - Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre 9/8 - Atlanta, GA @ The Eastern 9/9 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl 9/11 - Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall 9/12 - Austin, TX @ Stubbs Waller Creek Amphitheater 9/13 - Dallas, TX @ House of Blues 9/15 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre 9/16 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot 9/18 - Portland, Oregon @ Roseland Theatre (SOLD OUT) 9/19 - Vancouver, BC @ Malkin Bowl 9/20 - Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre 9/23 - Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater 9/24 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium 9/25 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium (SOLD OUT) Europe: 10/4 - Dublin, Ireland @ Olympia (SOLD OUT) 10/6 - Glasgow, UK @ Barrowland 10/7 - Manchester, UK @ Academy (SOLD OUT) 10/9 - London, UK @ London Eventim Apollo (SOLD OUT) 10/10 - London, UK @ London Eventim Apollo 10/16 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Paradiso (SOLD OUT) 10/17 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Paradiso 10/18 - Antwerp, Belgium @ De Roma 10/19 - Brussels, Belgium @ AB 10/21 - Cologne, Germany @ Carlswerk Victoria 10/23 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Vega (SOLD OUT) 10/24 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Vega 10/26 - Berlin, Germany @ Columbiahalle 10/27 - Prague, Czech Republic @ Forum Karlin 10/28 - Vienna, Austria @ Simm City 10/30 - Budapest, Hungary @ Akvarium Klub 10/31 - Liubljana, Slovenia @ Kino Siska 11/1 - Zagreb, Croatia @ Tvornica Kulture 11/3 - Lausanne, Switzerland @ Les Docks 11/4 - Turin, Italy @ Club to Club Festival 11/6 - Paris, France @ Trianon (SOLD OUT) 11/7 - Paris, France @ Trianon Read the full article

[audiofuzz]

SEE: Alt Rock | King Krule - “Flimsier” + Tour

King Krule releases “Flimsier,” the opening track from his highly anticipated forthcoming album Space Heavy, which gets a full release this Friday via Matador Records. The new single comes alongside a visualizer created by Archy’s long-time collaborator and brother, Jack Marshall. “Filmsier” is the final single to be revealed from Space Heavy, following the acclaimed singles “Seaforth” and “If Only It Was Warmth.” The track first sparked a frenzy in fans last year, when King Krule debuted it during his performance at Primavera Sound. Then again, when it resurfaced via exclusive flexi-discs sold at King Krule’s SHHH Tour in April - an intimate run of shows across the US, UK, and EU that sold out in under 2 minutes. The single became a fan favourite, racking up hundreds of thousands of streams via fan videos on YouTube. After a year of waiting, “Filmsier” gets an official release today. On Friday of this week, King Krule will release Space Heavy in full. The 15-track full-length inhabits the deepest reaches of the subterranean sonic world that Archy Marshall has constructed over the course of his career as King Krule. Written over the course of commutes between London and Liverpool, where Archy was splitting his time, he found himself fascinated by the notion of “the space between”; the space haunted by dreams of love, lost connection, losing people and situations to the guillotine of the universe. Once written by Archy, the music was developed by frequent collaborator Dilip Harris and long-time band mates Ignacio Salvadores (Saxophonist), George Bass (Drummer), James Wilson (Bass Guitarist) and Jack Towell (Guitarist). The result sees King Krule stepping into the height of their artistic powers; using his years of experience to create a dynamic body of work that reveals something new with every listen. See “Flimsier” below: Upcoming Tour Dates: North America: 7/21 - Minneapolis, MN @ First Ave 7/22 - Chicago, IL @ Pitchfork Musical Festival 7/23 - Detroit, MI @ Masonic Temple Theatre 7/25 - Toronto, ON CAN @ History 7/26 - Montreal, QC, CAN @ Corona Theatre (SOLD OUT) 7/28 - Boston, MA @ House of Blues 7/29 - Washington, DC @ 9:30 Club (SOLD OUT) 7/30 - Philadelphia, PA @ Union Transfer (SOLD OUT) 8/1 - Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre (SOLD OUT) 8/2 - Brooklyn, NY @ Kings Theatre 9/8 - Atlanta, GA @ The Eastern 9/9 - Nashville, TN @ Brooklyn Bowl 9/11 - Houston, TX @ White Oak Music Hall 9/12 - Austin, TX @ Stubbs Waller Creek Amphitheater 9/13 - Dallas, TX @ House of Blues 9/15 - Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre 9/16 - Salt Lake City, UT @ The Depot 9/18 - Portland, Oregon @ Roseland Theatre (SOLD OUT) 9/19 - Vancouver, BC @ Malkin Bowl 9/20 - Seattle, WA @ Paramount Theatre 9/23 - Oakland, CA @ Fox Theater 9/24 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium 9/25 - Los Angeles, CA @ Hollywood Palladium (SOLD OUT) Europe: 10/4 - Dublin, Ireland @ Olympia (SOLD OUT) 10/6 - Glasgow, UK @ Barrowland 10/7 - Manchester, UK @ Academy (SOLD OUT) 10/9 - London, UK @ London Eventim Apollo (SOLD OUT) 10/10 - London, UK @ London Eventim Apollo 10/16 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Paradiso (SOLD OUT) 10/17 - Amsterdam, Netherlands @ Paradiso 10/18 - Antwerp, Belgium @ De Roma 10/19 - Brussels, Belgium @ AB 10/21 - Cologne, Germany @ Carlswerk Victoria 10/23 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Vega (SOLD OUT) 10/24 - Copenhagen, Denmark @ Vega 10/26 - Berlin, Germany @ Columbiahalle 10/27 - Prague, Czech Republic @ Forum Karlin 10/28 - Vienna, Austria @ Simm City 10/30 - Budapest, Hungary @ Akvarium Klub 10/31 - Liubljana, Slovenia @ Kino Siska 11/1 - Zagreb, Croatia @ Tvornica Kulture 11/3 - Lausanne, Switzerland @ Les Docks 11/4 - Turin, Italy @ Club to Club Festival 11/6 - Paris, France @ Trianon (SOLD OUT) 11/7 - Paris, France @ Trianon Read the full article

[michelleplayswithfire]

how i got into youtube: 70k subscribers & 11 years strong

I knew about YouTube from the very beginning. I made the account that I have around 2011 and it was me watching 80s videos at the time and recording it to my iPod.

It was also around the same time that I got into remixes and I found out about UltraTraxx through YouTube with Beat It by Michael Jackson being the one that stood out to me the most along with Midnight Man by Flash and the Pan.

So I googled it, found a forum that had the volumes and I downloaded the ones that I knew I was going to like. It turned out to be over 100 of them, and I uploaded one of them along with a few that I did by myself through a software called MixPad. I enjoyed it so much and I did so much of it at one time, it just took off from there.

When one of my videos reached over 100K views, I thought I might've been on to something.

And it kept on for several years until 2015, the last time I stopped making a personal remix, which I sometimes deeply regret but don't because life situations came first.

When I started the channel, I was unemployed for many years and living with my mom and finishing college. I did it out of entertainment and had no intention of building a career or a business out of it. Just didn't think it would be fair.

By 2016, my mom passed away and I had to build a life on my own without her and it turned to me doing everything COMPLETELY on my own, and it was very difficult.

What also made things very difficult were copyright strikes (in 2016, I thought I was going to lose my channel for good), and the software that I was using for so long was riddled with malware and I had to download many software to get rid of the malware and it was a nightmare and I was upset too because I spent over $100 on it.

Throughout the years, I've had to take care of my mental health and my finances and by now I've lived in three counties and have hopes of moving back to NY soon after visiting there about five times since my mom died. So along the way I have been posting some videos, but I also enjoyed making playlists of US/UK/AU charts (heavily inspired by a YouTuber that I follow currently) and that seemed to do well.

Honestly, I wasn't expecting this many subscribers. I was expecting maybe a few thousand, but I think when I saw the channel reached 10K I started to become worried. When I hit 30K, I was really worried. I became at a total loss for words when I hit 60K around last year.

Everything has changed over the last 11 years, in a way that I think I'll be okay coming back to making remixes (I still have audio files on my hard drive that I could work with), but I also have to deal with copyright as well. I'm still not quite there on the life bit (I want to get married and become a mother eventually), but I'm not going to stop posting some content any time soon.

Also: The George Ezra/Harry Styles videos were experimental and were my way to get my feet back into remixing, but I didn't get a good response from them, so I didn't feel good about keeping it on my channel. They're not deleted, but they are unlisted, so if anyone wants to listen to them, let me know and I'll send in a link.

[influencermagazineuk]

Jenna Ortega Movies and TV Shows: A Rising Star in Hollywood

Jenna Ortega is a young actress who has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in several movies and TV shows, and her performances have garnered critical acclaim and a large fan following. Ortega started her career in 2012 with small roles in TV shows like "Rob" and "CSI: NY." Since then, she has gone on to star in several high-profile productions, showcasing her talent and versatility. One of Ortega's breakout roles was as the lead in the Disney Channel series "Stuck in the Middle." She played the character of Harley Diaz, the middle child in a large family, who must navigate the challenges of growing up while dealing with her eccentric siblings. The show was a hit with audiences, and Ortega's performance was praised for its humor and heart. Her work on "Stuck in the Middle" earned her nominations for several awards, including the Imagen Awards and the Young Artist Awards. Ortega has also made a name for herself in movies. In 2019, she starred in the horror-comedy "The Babysitter: Killer Queen," a sequel to the popular "The Babysitter." Ortega played the role of Phoebe, a young girl who finds herself caught up in a demonic cult. The movie was well-received by critics and audiences, and Ortega's performance was singled out for praise. Jenna Ortega In addition to her work in mainstream productions, Ortega is also known for her activism and advocacy work. She has spoken out on issues like immigration, gun violence, and mental health, using her platform to raise awareness and make a difference. She has been recognized for her efforts, receiving the Hispanic Heritage Foundation's Inspira Award in 2019. Other notable roles in Jenna Ortega's filmography include the Netflix series "You" and the movie "Yes Day." In "You," Ortega plays the character of Ellie, a teenager who becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of a stalker. Her performance was praised for its intensity and authenticity. In "Yes Day," she plays the daughter of Jennifer Garner and Edgar Ramirez's characters, who embark on a day of saying "yes" to everything their kids ask for. Jenna Ortega has quickly become a rising star in Hollywood, known for her talent and activism. She is set to star in several upcoming projects, including the movie "Scream" and the Netflix series "The Fallout." With her natural charisma and range as an actress, it is no wonder that she has become a favorite of audiences and critics alike. INGLEWOOD, CA - MARCH 24: Jenna Ortega attends Nickelodeon's 2018 Kids' Choice Awards at The Forum on March 24, 2018 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Neilson Barnard/Getty Images) Here is a chart summarizing some of the notable roles that Jenna Ortega has played in film and television: YearTitleRoleNotes2013Iron Man 3Vice President's daughterInsidious: Chapter 2Annie2014The Little Rascals Save the DayMary Ann2015After WordsAnna Chapa2018Saving FloraDawn2019WyrmSuzie2020The Babysitter: Killer QueenPhoebe AtwellYes DayKatie TorresThe FalloutVada Cavell2022ScreamTara CarpenterStudio 666Skye WillowXLorraine DayAmerican CarnageCamila Montes2023Scream VITara CarpenterCompletedFinestkindNickyPost-productionMiller's GirlTBAPost-productionWinter, Spring, Summer, or FallRemiPost-production; also executive producerJenna Ortega Movies and TV Shows Untitled Trey Edward Shults filmFilming; also executive producer2012RobGirlEpisode: "The Baby Bug"CSI: NYAimee MooreEpisode: "Unspoken"2013Days of Our LivesHayleyEpisode: "12062"2014RakeZoe LeonRecurring roleJane the VirginYoung Jane Villanueva (age 12)Recurring role2015Richie RichDarcyMain role2016Stuck in the MiddleHarley DiazLead roleElena and the Secret of AvalorPrincess IsabelVoice role; television film2018BizaardvarkIzzyEpisode: "The BFF (Before Frankie Friend)"2019YouEllie AlvesMain role (season 2)Big City GreensGabriella EspinosaVoice role; 6 episodes2020Home Movie: The Princess BridePrincess ButtercupEpisode: "The Fire Swamp"Jurassic World Camp CretaceousBrooklynnMain voice role2022WednesdayWednesday AddamsLead roleJenna Ortega Movies and TV Shows Jenna Ortega is a young actress who has appeared in a variety of film and television roles. She first gained attention in 2014 with her recurring role as young Jane Villanueva on the popular television series "Jane the Virgin." Since then, she has appeared in a number of films and television shows, including "Stuck in the Middle," "You," and "Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous." Regarding the filmography of Jenna Ortega, it is clear that she has worked on various film and television projects since 2012. In terms of film, she has appeared in several movies, including Iron Man 3, The Little Rascals Save the Day, and The Babysitter: Killer Queen. Her most recent film role was in the highly anticipated horror movie Scream, where she played the character Tara Carpenter. Aside from film, Ortega has also made a name for herself in television. She has appeared in a number of popular TV shows, such as Jane the Virgin, Stuck in the Middle, and You. One of her most notable TV roles was as the lead character Harley Diaz in the Disney Channel series Stuck in the Middle. Ortega has also done extensive voice work for animated series, including Elena of Avalor and Jurassic World Camp Cretaceous. Furthermore, it is worth noting that Ortega has not only acted in various projects but has also been involved in executive producing some of them. For example, in the upcoming movie Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall, she not only acts but also serves as an executive producer. Similarly, in an untitled Trey Edward Shults film that is currently filming, Ortega is both acting and executive producing. Jenna Ortega has proven herself to be a versatile and talented actress, with a wide range of acting skills that allow her to excel in both film and television. Her work in the industry continues to grow, and it will be exciting to see what projects she becomes a part of in the future. Read the full article

[nytech]

Celebrating Black History Month: Fonta Gilliam

This Black History Month, NYTA recognizes and celebrates the many incredible black men, women and non-binary individuals who have graced our stage at NY Tech Meetups to present and demo transformative tech; shared subject matter expertise during Forum events to provide perspective and participated in Founder Spotlights to tell their story and inspire other founders as they pursue their own journey of building a business. As part of our celebration, this week we recognize and celebrate Fonta Gilliam, CEO and Co-Founder of Wellthi, a fintech company based in Washington, DC and a part of the NYTA community.

About Fonta Gilliam

Ms. Gilliam has over 10 years of development finance experience working in the United States, Africa, and Asia as a U.S. Diplomat and a management consultant in Deloitte’s Emerging Markets Practice.

Over the course of her career, she led numerous White House and U.S. State Department initiatives, including launching two of the U.S. Government’s first women’s business centers in Africa and designing innovative financing facilities to unlock capital for women and small businesses in the United States, Kenya, Morocco, Zambia, Nigeria, South Korea, and China.

In 2016, she was awarded the U.S. State Department’s prestigious Franklin Award for her tireless work to support economic empowerment and financial inclusion initiatives in Africa.

Ms. Gilliam has a Master of Arts in economic development from American University’s School of International Studies (SIS) and a Bachelor of Arts in political science and economics from Howard University.

About Welthi

Welthi is redefining the mobile banking experience for the next generation, empowering customers to achieve their financial goals with engaging social features and positive group think. They have been recognized for over a half dozen awards for their innovative technology, and they’re just getting started!

Several ways you can recognize and help Fonta and her team:

Visit their website and learn about the Wellthiapp

Download and use the app

Refer Wellthi to family and friends

Watch and listen to Fonta’s story on NYTA’s YouTube Channel

[pinkrubberducky]

LANY; a review

Quarantine was a rough time for the majority of people. Unfortunately, that applies to me as well. I am not quite sure what I was going through, but I turned to music and have found some wonderful new bands and groups I still enjoy listening to. During the midst of quarantine, I was still at home living with my parents, as I was a sophomore in highschool. It was hard being cooped up like that, so I guess my automatic response was to look for something that expressed how I was feeling. I ended up finding a band named LANY, pronounced LANE- E. While these songs had more breakup-ish vibes, it did the trick and allowed me to get into my feels. Regardless, I was able to vibe with the music and thus, can confidently say I have a true album to cry listening to.

So how did this band form, who are they and where are they from? The band consisted formerly of Paul Jackson Klein, Les Priest and Jake Gross, though now is just currently Paul Klein and Jake Gross as the third member decided to leave around April 2022 to focus more on writing music. They started the band in 2014, after Paul flew to Nashville to meet up with his friends, not knowing that the other two band members would be his friends. They eventually made their own music as a new band and gained attraction basically overnight. At some point, I don’t really know when, if I am being honest, they signed with Interscope Records, which I think is owned by Universal Records. Pretty major artists have signed with them like MGK, JXDN, Billie Eilish, Gwen Steffani, Guns ‘N Roses, Eminem, Tame Impala and U2. Moral of the story, they got signed to a big recording label and their careers really took off from there.

Another cool thing about LANY is how they came up with their band name. As they said in an interview, they “knew they wanted a 4 letter name but all of the 4 letter words in the world were taken”. So they chose LANY as LA, as in Los Angeles and NY as in New York. They wanted something aesthetic and they got it for sure. Though the name can be confusing in how to pronounce it, I think we can all agree that it looks very pleasing.

https://open.spotify.com/album/6SWmGozzQDUaczHXMuE8Za?si=P3hhbr4OQfOKGinujvd1Kg

I am going to try to explain the albums, though it won’t be in chronological order, it will be in order of how I rank them. In Malibu Nights, the album, there is more of a simple track underneath, if that makes sense- it sounds like piano keys and in some songs light drums and some sort of beat on top of that. To start off, the music has like a soft vibe to it which makes it easy to listen and their voices makes it easy to listen to lyrics. This album came out in 2018 and was about a breakup from one of the band members, Paul Klein and Dua Lipa. I really enjoy this album because it is so easy to soak up the emotional distress throughout the entire thing, which maybe for me makes it even better because I am truly an emotional person. It is an album worth listening to for sure.

https://open.spotify.com/album/6tmSIFaEjxAtuYwPq9FaFP?si=c_Oh00b8TUKw_6RgUqUbJg

The next album that I am going to talk about is also one I'd recommend as well. The album's name is mama’s boy and was released in 2020. The theme of this album is more along the lines of wanting to treat a girl right and letting whoever they wrote the song for know that they are a nice guy. I also really enjoy the vibes of the album, they’re simplistic and again, to me, help me sort through the lyrics. You should 100% listen to this album.

https://open.spotify.com/album/1vtTvVJMXCrR4kO58lmDNB?si=-eKdUBXOTsqg9P_hAG0rUg

In addition to those two albums, I really enjoy their newly released live from the Forum album from 2022. It is quite literally an album of live songs from their tour, it is so, so cool to listen to. My first thoughts while listening were, wow, I really enjoy live music, maybe I should go to more concerts��. And I think that’s really good because that means 9 million of their monthly listeners can get a chance to hear what a concert is, maybe not completely feel the vibes of a concert, but definitely hear it.

https://open.spotify.com/album/77Df1klImSWFeDQh96h626?si=eMy1ZV8JTlaYCBo-drt2CQ

I am going to be honest with you, I have not listened fully to gg bb xx, their album from 2021. I tried to listen to it on the car ride back from my cousin's house in Omaha, Nebraska,  but it just wasn’t doing it for me. Yes, I love the band but apparently not this album. This is similar to the fact that I have not listened to their other albums before Malibu Nights. I have listened to some of their older stuff just not the full albums, though I am thinking that maybe I should.  

All in all, I really enjoy LANY and I hope that they keep making music as well as they did with the albums I listened to. Listening to them gave me an outlet to express my emotions and feel things that I did not know needed to be felt. While they do not currently have any awards or nominations, I think they deserve recognition off vibes given around the songs. Though, now that I say that, I am thinking that maybe it is the memories that surrounded their songs that gave me an attachment to it, so could it be different for other people? Could people have other songs they enjoy purely because of experiences around them? I will let you decide that and in the meantime, listen to Malibu Nights (the song) live from the Forum on Spotify. I know not everyone enjoys sadder music but I hope you can at least appreciate the way that music can help people. Thank you for reading and enjoy your day.

[chemicallyx]

So a lot has happened since my last post everyone! Of those many things, some of which I will have to reveal at a later date, I was able to get out and have a somewhat impromptu trip to New York City, New York! The reason? To attend the U.S. Career Forum there, which is a career event oriented toward people with Japanese & English language abilities and interests. So for those of you who might be coming back to the US and want to pursue jobs in the US or in Japan with Japanese companies, this is for you!

Heading out

So this was the first leg of the trip. I bussed down to Boston South Station on the Concord Coach Line – which is pretty nice. If you’re heading up to Maine I’d recommend it. And if you’re ever having to linger around Boston SS and you need a snack or something, don’t feel like you have to stay in the bus station, which has limited options. My boyfriend recommended popping over to the train station next door because there are many more options available for whatever you may need – coffee and snack for me – and it was good advice. I felt better grabbing something at Au Bon Pain than I did at McDonalds. D:

After that I made the switch to a Peter Pan bus that would go to the NY Port Authority bus station. This… was not so nice. The drive down was good, but their buses are really not in good shape. The most vexing part was really only that none of the outlets were functioning on the bus, and I knew I was going to need my phone for navigation in New York so I wouldn’t just be that lost tourist.. A word to the wise: conserve your battery on the way down. Also, the bus was incredibly noisy – lots of parts seemed like they were shaking loose there.

And maybe par for the course for a Friday afternoon arrival, but we were scheduled to arrive at the Port Authority station at 1:45pm. When did we arrive? 3:30pm… Thank you gridlock New York traffic! I started to wonder why anyone even bothers to drive there.. more on that later.

That being said, we were on the bus for too long!! But the bright side is we drove all the way around Central Park in the process, which I wanted to see. 🙂 It looked really cool – the scenic views were what kept me from losing my noggin in the middle of that lengthy bus arrival. From just outside the city all the way in, it was very, very New York. Up until now I didn’t know what that meant when other people said that, but now I do. So metropolitan, everything that everyone was doing just seemed like a natural, normal thing to do. I don’t know. Maybe if you’ve been you’ll know what I’m talking about.

One key observation that I had early on that persisted throughout my impromptu trip involved a pretty high level of horn honking. As a person who was once told that my ‘laugh point was low,’ it was pretty amusing, and no matter where I went in the city I heard fair amounts of horn honking. I think if you live there it becomes more like background noise and you notice less, but I definitely noticed it as an “outsider.” That being said, it certainly did not detract from the ambience of the city life – rather, it enhanced it! There’s no illusion when you’re lulled to sleep by occasional horn honks.

Anyway, to continue my tale, the first thing I had to do – well, second – was eat. I was starving after being on that bus for hours. So I went to Go! Go! Curry, which I found while Googling food on the bus, and I chose it because it wasn’t too far from the station. So I popped in there and ate ravenously.

  Go! Go! Curry…

gone.

It seemed like most of the clientele was male, probably because of all the carbs involved, but I had no shame. I hadn’t eaten in like 6 hours! And it was pretty delicious.

Since it was in the area and the theme of my journey seemed to be ‘Japan,’ I decided to pop into the NY Kinokuniya, which is right across from a nice park and a subway stop. I walked through some of the fashion district to get there and it was pretty scenic. My history of watching Project Runway found me excited to be in such close proximity to Mood, lol. But I pressed on to Kinokuniya because it is so natsukashii (なつかしい）. I really long for some of the things I miss about Japan, being away from it and all. So I took myself in there and grabbed a book for my boyfriend, checked out a few more, longed for a wonderful bookstore such as Kinokuniya where I live, and then decided to head to my hotel digs.

I want this book

and this book!!

So I got on the subway. Now I’ve heard a lot of things about the NY Subway (thanks 30 Rock), so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I had to experience it right? I had bought a Metro Pass at the Hudson News in the Port Authority – a 4-rider – and used that to get on. I was in subway mode with my headphones and I stood most of the way. Nothing strange really happened, except a small kid came onto the subway selling snacks. When there were no takers he quickly moved to the next car. Other than that one occurrence though, nothing really happened at all. So I felt like the myth was busted. Rode down to Delaney St. and exited toward Essex St. above ground. I was in the Lower East Side, which was another thing I had to get used to on the journey – the Boroughs!! I was like which is where? half the time. Pretty handy to check out a map and try to remember though because subway signs say things like ‘Toward Uptown,” “Toward Downtown,” or “Toward Brooklyn,” and unless you know which area your destination is in, those signs aren’t exactly helpful.

The Digs + Lower East Side

Anywho, I walked myself a couple blocks down to the Blue Moon Hotel. You can find my Booking.com review here. It’s great value for the money if you’re willing to be a little far from you need to be. Lower East Side seems to be in a hopping area with a lot of night life, which makes sense when you consider it’s near NYU, so there isn’t a shortage of things to do.

I took a shower immediately because I felt gross after being out in public that long, you know the feeling. After I jumped out I was better able to appreciate the digs.

Speaking of things to do, while I felt pretty tired from the ride and the walking, not to mention I still felt I had a little prep left to do for some of my interviews the next day, I made myself go out to get a quick bite & drink. I went all the way to NYC so I should enjoy it right? was my line of reasoning. I stumbled across Goa Taco, and let me tell ya, I love tacos, so I went in.

I got a spicy margarita and a pork belly taco. It. Was. Delicious. goa taco is totally happening – there isn’t a lot of seating area but I liked the crew’s vibe and the shop was playing hip, current music, so it felt very New York and I enjoyed sitting there eating for a bit, watching people come and go. That spicy margarita though…. delicious. If you stop in and are of age, you HAVE to get one. I love a marg, but this one way exceeded expectations. 🙂

I headed back to the hostel/hotel, jumped in my bunk, did a little bit of prep, and went to sleep. I knew I’d have an early morning so I had to get my intelligence (and beauty) sleep…

U.S. Career Forum NY

So the next day I set out pretty early. And of course the best way to start my day is with a nice little breakfast snack and an amazing cup of coffee.

Lucky for me, Irving Farm Coffee Roasters cafe was right down the street from Blue Moon. I had know about this shop before because of a bit of a connection through my boyfriend’s family, so I was really excited to find it right next door basically. I was even more elated to find out how delicious their dark roast pour over and baked goods were!

The scenes

and the eats!

It was a pretty refreshing breakfast. That was a piece of raspberry banana bread by the way, and it was AMAZING. I was in the first rush of customers who were approaching just as the doors opened on Saturday at 8 AM.

And yup, I was wearing a suit. Japanese style. That’s in the Blue Moon elevator right there.

So anyway I jumped on the subway after this, and shortly came to realize that the subway is definitely less reliable on weekends than it is weekdays, and it is a point that a friend of mine who lives in New York now reiterated to me later. So if you find yourself in the city rushing somewhere, it could be faster to take a Lyft or something, depending on the time of day. Just something to keep in mind.

Lucky for me though I had a lot of time. The doors of CF open at 10 am and the event ran until 5 pm, with a short 5-6 pm happy hour following. So I got off at the closest stop, which was Penn Station and walked for 15 minutes or so to the Javits Center. It was further than I anticipated, but it was good to get some exercise.

For many people, you may not have to arrive at the Career Forum as soon as it opens, but if you’ve scheduled a lot of interviews in advance using their website or via email, you’ll likely be putting in a whole day. I certainly did. I had 4 interviews lined up and a lot of resumes prepared to hand out to all the different booths along the way. Really your effort in advance and the day of makes the experience for you, so I think it’s well worth the time put in ahead of time to have things arranged and lined up for you once you arrive.

Part of what precipitated my journey was also that I received/was approved for the travel scholarship down to the event. They’ll give you a reimbursement based on where you’re coming from to hopefully offset the costs involved with going down. So even if you aren’t sure you’ll get it it is worth a shot to apply. I didn’t think I would get it and I did! So that’s what helped me decide to go down.

All in all I think it was a useful event for me to really see where I want to end up. I’m kind of at a nexus point in my career, so I want to make sure the next step I take is the right one, and being able to go to this really helped me realign my compass so to speak. I think it can help others too, so it’s well worth going to one of these events.

After Career Forum

So after Career Forum I had plans to meet up with a friend from university and we had a blast. She’s been living there for going on 7 years now, so she knows a lot about NYC. So we checked out a couple awesome places. The first being sake bar decibel.

Sorry the photos are a little blurry, but it was dark! It was a pretty awesome place. We had some delicious food, and they had amazing sake! It was an excellent place and we stayed there for a while just chatting and catching up. Eventually we ran the clock though and had to order more or scoot, so we decided to scoot.

We walked around for a bit to decide what to do next, and we ended up heading to a place she knew about called Angel’s Share, which is located through a discreet door inside of a Japanese restaurant called Village Yokocho. It’s a speakeasy concept so it’s one of those ‘secret’ locations, but even though it’s secret, it was pretty popular, lol! It’s like that everywhere I feel with speakeasies once the word gets out. But if you get the chance, I highly recommend stopping in. Their cocktails were out of this world….

That’s something that I think is pretty impressive. The level of NYC cocktails is off the chart. I though some of Portland’s restaurants put together some awesome cocktails, but the NYC game is pretty strong. So if you’re interested in sampling and are of age, it’s something definitely worth looking into. Just any cocktail bar will probably be amazing, but Angel’s Share was pretty much the best I’ve had yet. It was a tequila-based drink with burdock-infused mezcal. I don’t recall the name of the drink, but think about those components alone! Pretty amazing.

So my friend and I continued chatting for a while and enjoying our adult beverages and we were considering doing karaoke, but I’m just too old – hahaha! So we went to our respective homes and I got back at about 2:30 am (which is a stretch for me nowadays, lol). I knew I had an early morning (8:30 am return bus), so I showered ASAP and got in bed. I decided to grab a Lyft the next morning to make sure I made my bus in time. I was exhausted with the whirlwind trip, but since it was my first time in NY I was glad to do it. I think everyone should go check it out. Really  it seems like a place where anyone can belong, and I think that’s one of the best parts about the city. It was great to feel that vibe for a weekend. Needless to say, I made it back to Maine safely and in better time than the way down, which was a huge relief.

Did my journey get you curious about New York? Send me a message or comment below and I’m happy to share my impressions or more info about Career Forum. 🙂 Until next time!

A Spontaneous Journey to NYC So a lot has happened since my last post everyone! Of those many things, some of which I will have to reveal at a later date, I was able to get out and have a somewhat impromptu trip to New York City, New York!

[louistomlinsoncouk]

Headline Wembley Arena Show Announced For April 2022

New Postponed World Tour Dates Confirmed For Spring 2022

Louis Tomlinson today announces that he is partnering with BMG to release his second album globally.

Recording is already underway for the record, and Louis joins a roster at BMG that includes KSI, Craig David, Richard Ashcroft, The Prodigy and Kylie Minogue.

Louis says: "I’m very excited to start the next part of my journey with BMG.”

Jamie Nelson VP A&R at BMG UK says: "We are delighted to welcome Louis to BMG. He is already busy working on new music, and we are excited to join him on the next phase of his extraordinary career."

Louis also announces today the first wave of new 2022 dates for his postponed World Tour in UK, Europe, USA and Australia, including a brand new date at London's Wembley Arena. This show replaces Louis's two sold out London shows at The Roundhouse, and tickets will be transferred to the new venue.

Louis's first show at Wembley Arena will take place on April 22nd 2022, and extra tickets for the gig go on sale on Friday 14th May at 9am BST.

After postponing his 2020 world tour due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Louis will now finally get back on the road with his first solo tour, which is already completely sold out. The new dates are listed below. Further international rescheduled dates will be announced at a later date.

Last year, Louis released his million selling smash debut solo album 'Walls' which hit Top 3 in the UK and Top 10 in the USA. A lyrically personal album that proved he had found his feet as a solo artist, the album produced a clutch of acclaimed singles including the emotive first release Two of Us, the raucous Kill My Mind, the reflective We Made It.

In 2019 Louis headlined the Coca-Cola music festival in Madrid to an audience of 25,000 people, and performed to 65,000 fans at Premios Telehit in the Foro Sol stadium in Mexico City. Louis picked up the Best Song Award at the 2019 Teen Choice Awards for 'Two Of Us', which has so far hit over 100 million streams on Spotify alone.

In 2018 Louis won an iHeart Award for 'Best Solo Breakout', and an EMA Award for 'Best UK & Ireland Act' in 2017. He was ranked No.5 on Billboard’s emerging artists of 2018 and has over 60 million combined followers on social media. Last year he won 'Artist Of The Summer' in Philly radio station 96.5 TDY's annual awards.

In December 2020, Louis hosted one of the biggest live stream concert events of 2020, selling over 160,000 tickets to fans in over 100 countries and raising funds for several important charities. As a member of One Direction, Louis has sold over 100 million records. Overall Louis’ solo music has garnered over a BILLION streams.

Louis Tomlinson Tour Dates 2022

NORTH AMERICA

1st Feb South Side Ballroom, Dallas, TX

2nd Feb ACL Live at The Moody Theater, Austin, TX - SOLD OUT

3rd Feb Bayou Music Center, Houston, TX - SOLD OUT

5th Feb The Pageant, St Louis, MO - SOLD OUT

7th Feb Coca-Cola Roxy, Atlanta, GA - SOLD OUT

8th Feb Ryman Auditorium, Nashville, TN - SOLD OUT

10th Feb Hammerstein Ballroom, New York, NY - SOLD OUT

11th Feb Hammerstein Ballroom, New York, NY - SOLD OUT

12th Feb The Anthem, Washington DC - SOLD OUT

14th Feb Stage AE, Pittsburgh, PA - SOLD OUT

15th Feb The Met, Philadelphia, PA - SOLD OUT

17th Feb House Of Blues Boston, Boston, MA - SOLD OUT

19th Feb REBEL, Toronto, ON - SOLD OUT

20th Feb The Fillmore, Detroit, MI - SOLD OUT

21st Feb Murat Theatre at Old National Centre, Indianapolis, IN - SOLD OUT

23rd Feb The Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL - SOLD OUT

24th Feb The Fillmore Minneapolis, Minneapolis, MN - SOLD OUT

26th Feb Uptown, Kansas City, MO - NEW SHOW

28th Feb Fillmore Auditorium, Denver, CO

1st Mar UCUU Center, Orem, UT - NEW VENUE

3rd Mar Paramount Theatre, Seattle, WA - SOLD OUT

4th Mar Roseland, Portland, OR - NEW VENUE - SOLD OUT

6th Mar Orpheum, Vancouver, BC - SOLD OUT

7th Mar Roseland, Portland, OR - NEW SHOW

10th Mar Fox Theatre, Oakland, CA - SOLD OUT

12th Mar Performance Venue at Hollywood Park, Los Angeles, CA - NEW SHOW

UK & EUROPE

23rd Mar Valsheimilið, Reykjavik, Iceland

25th Mar Arenan Fryshuset, Stockholm, Sweden - SOLD OUT

27th Mar Spektrum, Oslo, Norway - NEW VENUE

28th Mar Forum Black Box, Copenhagen, Denmark – NEW SHOW

30th Mar Columbiahalle, Berlin, Germany - SOLD OUT

31st Mar Forum Karlin, Prague, Czech Republic - SOLD OUT

2nd Apr AFAS Live, Amsterdam, Netherlands - SOLD OUT

3rd Apr Palladium, Cologne, Germany – NEW SHOW

5th Apr L’Olympia, Paris, France - SOLD OUT

6th Apr L’Olympia, Paris, France - SOLD OUT

8th Apr Lorenzini District, Milan, Italy - NEW VENUE

9th Apr Halle 622, Zurich, Switzerland - SOLD OUT

11th Apr Gasometer, Vienna, Austria - SOLD OUT

13th Apr Torwar Hall, Warsaw, Poland – NEW VENUE  

14th Apr MTP5, Poznan, Poland – NEW SHOW

16th Apr Lotto Arena, Antwerp, Belgium – NEW SHOW

18th Apr O2 Academy Glasgow, Glasgow, UK – SOLD OUT

19th Apr O2 Apollo, Manchester, UK – SOLD OUT

20th Apr O2 Apollo, Manchester, UK – NEW SHOW

22nd Apr SSE Arena Wembley, London, UK – NEW VENUE

23rd Apr Doncaster Dome, Doncaster, UK – SOLD OUT

20th Jul Fortitude Hall, Brisbane, Australia – NEW SHOW

22nd Jul Hordern Pavilion, Sydney, Australia – SOLD OUT

25th Jul Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne, Australia – NEW VENUE

29th Jul HBF Stadium, Perth, Australia – NEW SHOW