Good News Corporation, est. In 2002, as a nonprofit and OMMM Presents, both partners for Mother Earth and the International Day of Peace.

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Listen to “Trisomy 18, Edwards Syndrome Takes the Life or Baby Marita – Her Mom creates Marita Brings Life Foundation thin 2 ours with a max. Life…” on Spreaker.

Marita at 2 days old. We were told she was going to die within 2 ours with a max. Life expectancy of 2 days This was her at 2 days old, alive and kicking.

Where Do We Grieve?
when it is our safe place
that died.
How do we tell lungs
to breathe through the pain
when they’re mourning
the air itself. –
Bereaved mum, anonymous
Abstract
This research aims at examining parents’ healthcare experiences for children with Trisomy 13
and 18 across three countries in the EU and the US, with emphasis on cultural, social and
medical perspectives on their interaction with healthcare professionals. The study using
semi-structured interviews explores how parents and children are wronged systematically;
ways in which there can be a clear lack of communication, ethical dilemmas, and ways in
which children with Trisomy 13 and 18 are stereotyped regarding the treatment that they are
given. Going further into the principal outcomes, it is worth to note that the parents are
essential in demanding their childrens’ care, as they actively dispute the medical
professionals and fight for their children’s rights, if the latter face withdrawal of care, or even
active unconsented palliative care. Additionally, the research addresses how parents attempt
to strategize against these situations by forming parent support groups, both formally and
informally, that allow better access to better healthcare facilities. Moreover, there are the
further findings of the research – the research shows that there exist serious violations of
ethical principles such as the principle of informed consent, the criterion of proportionality
and human rights violations with regards to equal access of medical care for the disabled. The
research shows that there is a need to design and implement better and sensitive health care
practices that respect the views of families with T13/18. For example, it advocates for
increased understanding of profession and parent communication, increased support of family
members and more attention paid to discrimination against children with T13/18 in
healthcare. These findings advance the knowledge in the field of Medical Anthropology,
Disability Studies, and Genetic Counseling that can be useful in the future health care
practices and policies for the families of the children with genetic disorders.
Acknowledgements
This dissertation is dedicated to my daughter, Marita, who was born on July 31, 2018, and sadly passed away
on September 1, 2018. I may never know if she would have survived had she received the care typically afforded
to a child unaffected by a chromosomal anomaly. My daughter was denied even the most basic care, such as
water and food. I extend my deepest gratitude to those parents who have entrusted me with their stories and to
the children who have shared their profound joy and love for life with me. In particular, this dissertation is
especially dedicated to Febe, who tragically passed away, most likely unnecessarily, while I was in the process
of writing this dissertation. I also wish to thank everyone who supported me in various ways. Special thanks go
to Professor Jonathan Gross at DePaul University, Chicago, who never stopped believing in my work.
Preface
It’s January 25, 2018. I’m about to walk the dog, feeling good, when the phone rings and my obstetrician speaks
in an aggressive tone: “You haven’t looked up your NIPT (Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing) results!” I calmly
respond, “Yes, indeed,…” I try to explain that I decided not to look them up. Upon returning home, I felt I had
been somewhat pressured into this. She had said, “It’s good to test because you and your husband (“Who says I
am married?”, I remember thinking.), will be able to provide better care for your child in case it has a genetic
disorder like Down syndrome. You’re 38 years old, don’t you think it’s a good idea?” I had answered, “If this
test is meant to help me get better care for my baby… if I can use it to inform myself, and if it’s not going to be
used against me or my child or my family…I would like to do it.” Thus we proceeded.
“But will my child get better care?” I later wondered. “Why should I do a genetic test if any child is more than
welcome? Wasn’t I causing myself a lot of worries and difficulties by knowing, instead of enjoying the bliss of
not knowing? What would this knowledge and the accompanying stress do to my child?” The obstetrician told
me she wouldn’t look up the results, and I had trusted her. “It’s your own responsibility; I won’t do it for you,”
she said in a snarky tone, while handing me a post-it with a login and password. Today she calls me, seemingly
enraged, and I don’t get a chance to stop her. She interrupts me and continues shouting statistical facts through
the phone.
“Your child has a 43% chance of Edwards syndrome. It’s similar to Down syndrome but much worse. It comes
with curved legs and arms, rock-bottom feet,… It will never be able to walk or speak. It’s the worst possible
disability there is. When are you coming in?”
I sit down on the puppy’s crate. He keeps pulling at his leash, eager to go out, and doesn’t pay attention to my
phone conversation. Nature calls. I breathe deeply, trying to buy some time, and respond, “Why should I exactly
come in?” I notice a hint of irony in my voice—a tone I would later recognise in other parents’ voices, much
later, after my daughter had passed away and I finally connected with them.
The obstetrician sighs and exclaims, “YOU SHOULD COME IN FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT. THERE IS
NO TIME TO LOSE,” then continues, “You were already late,” this time in an accusatory tone. (“Being
pregnant is not being sick,” I remember thinking to myself. I was barely two months pregnant when I had
contacted her.) “Which appointment?” I ask. (“A 43% chance of Edwards syndrome?” What on earth does that
mean? “Is the baby going to be half disabled?”, I remember thinking while drifting away into cynicism.
Thoughts are racing through my head at this point.) Before I have a chance to ask for further clarifications, she
rambles on:
“…IN BELGIUM WE ABORT SUCH CHILDREN. YOU SHOULD COME IN FOR YOUR
APPOINTMENT!!”
I now understand what “your appointment” means when she explains her cultural understanding of the matter.
This was also my first encounter with a typical discursive practice around NIPT, abortion, and having a child
with a trisomy disorder. “Coming in for your appointment” clearly meant “in Belgium we abort such children”,
the “appointment” was the “abortion appointment,” and “aborting such children”, apparently a normal procedure
here.
Calmly and politely, I clarify my position: “Whether to abort my child or not is still a decision to be made by me
and me alone, in whichever country I live.” I am not necessarily pro-life, nor am I pro-abortion. However, I am a
feminist, and nobody decides over my body and the little foetus growing inside me but me.
My experience also has a personal component. Following the standard DSM definition, I could be seen as
disabled (cf. I am diagnosed on the autism spectrum). Yet, I strongly align with how autistic sociologist Judy
Singer described our neurological difference: we’re neurodivergent, not disabled. Strictly speaking, we’re not
even necessarily autistic in the negative sense of the word. I have other qualities, other capabilities. I know my
value, and I have equal rights. My future disabled child has equal rights too.
“My dog needs a walk. I’ll call you back later. Thank you so much for your call,” I manage to politely utter. As I
put down the phone, I feel an incredible sense of unsafety in and around my body. I tremble as I walk into the
woods behind the house. Walking through the forest, I listen to the sounds around me, while the dog happily
runs about. There seem to be no problems here… until I lose sight of him and find him standing on the ice of the
little lake. He’s looking at me with terrified eyes. I’m terrified too. What have I gotten myself into? We’re both
on thin ice… and I’ve made a huge mistake consenting with this NIPT.
While helping the dog out of his precarious situation, I somehow come to terms with what just happened. The
doctor, whom I had confided in, had literally pulled the rug out from under me. Weren’t these results supposed
to be used to “improve and provide better healthcare for my child in case she would have a genetic disorder?” I
wasn’t even thinking about how she had looked up my results while saying she wouldn’t. It didn’t sit well with
me that now, all of a sudden, “better healthcare” was being translated into a—supposedly, if I could believe
her—national procedure to abort “such children.” How trustworthy was this NIPT actually? I wanted to run, as
far away as I could. This wasn’t really happening… THIS WAS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN TO ME, TO
US… At that moment, I even thought I could escape from it.
I walked, almost ran back to the house. I felt so small, so vulnerable, so full of adrenaline… I’m back at the
house and call the hospital: “I am calling in reference to my earlier conversation with Dr. X, you might know
about it?” “Yes”, mumbles the nurse. “I am calling to say I am withdrawing consent in sharing my and my
daughter’s medical files with any other hospital, including my GP.” The nurse responded: “This is not how
things work over here, maybe it’s different in the Netherlands.” (I have a Dutch accent.) “Yes this is how things
work over here,” I respond firmly, “I live here. I was born and raised here and I am aware of my rights. I do have
a right to medical confidentiality as any other person does. This right applies to my and my child’s medical files.
Also in Belgium. So again, I am asking you to clearly include in my medical files and those of my child, that
there is no consent to share them with anyone. Also not my GP. Please can you make sure to have a copy
available? I’d like to pick it up as soon as possible. I’ll drop by in 30 minutes. If it’s not ready, I’ll wait.”
An hour later, files in hand, I find myself buying a newspaper in the city centre. I need something to ground
myself in reality. But while reading the newspaper, I can’t stop thinking: “This is not my world anymore.
Nothing in this newspaper relates to me. I am here, you are all there. I’m in a different world. I’m falling into an
abyss that you all don’t know about. What is happening to me…?” Then the phone rings. My GP: “I just had a
call and heard you picked up your files from the hospital?” “There is no consent to share my files.” At this point
I feel I am getting angry. My patience is gone. “Yes, I know,” she rambles on, but I am barely able to receive
what she says, and feel myself sinking away, deeper and deeper, until I hear: “But don’t you think that if the
doctor advises you to abort, it would be wise to listen to her? Don’t you think the doctor knows better?”
That afternoon, I contact my former GP in the Netherlands and politely ask for a referral to the nearest Dutch
hospital. I am Dutch, live on the Dutch-Belgian border, and am insured in both countries (a luxury not everyone
has). I firmly believe that crossing the border, I would find a welcoming and nurturing environment—a place
where my possibly disabled child would be treated as an equal citizen. If I had only known.
Introduction
This dissertation explores the experiences of families of children with Trisomy 13 and 18
(T13/18), two severe genetic disorders, within the healthcare systems of three countries in the
European Union (Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany), as compared to experiences of
parents in the American healthcare system. The research investigates the extent to which the
differing views of parents and physicians regarding the care of children with these genetic
disorders influences parents’ experiences when they encounter negative eugenics.
Additionally, the study seeks to identify the culturally specific strategies that families employ
in response to these challenges. The study will compare parental experiences in the healthcare
systems of the US, characterised by a typical litigiousness and overwhelming fear of being
sued for medical malpractice, and these three countries in the EU, in order to understand how
modern-day eugenics is constituted in both the prenatal and postnatal context in these
Western societies.
A key aspect in the disability debate is the evaluation of the role of medicine in
defining disability in Western societies. As Foucault (1976, p. 252) argues, in biopolitical
states, ‘medicine becomes a political intervention-technique with specific power-effects.
Medicine is a form of power-knowledge that can be applied to both the body and the
population’. Similarly, Oliver (1990, Ch. 3) contends that the category of ‘disability’ is
socially constructed and fluid, able to resolve systemic contradictions within a given society.
Moreover, once certain groups are classified within this category, it becomes difficult, if not
impossible, for them to be excluded, creating a ‘distributive dilemma’ for states that can be
addressed in different ways depending on their mode of production. Oliver (1990, Ch. 3)
suggests that distribution based on needs may indicate the emergence of a socialist system,
while distribution based on costs may reflect a capitalist mode of production.
As Foucault argues, in its most extreme forms this ‘distributive dilemma’ manifests in
biopolitical societies in forms of ‘racism’. Foucault (1976, p. 255-259) argues that ‘racism’,
is ‘primarily a way of introducing a break into the domain of life that is under powers’
control: the break between what must live and what must die’. According to him, racism may
be seen as processes of stigmatisation, abandonment, rejection, expulsion and discrimination,
on the one hand. Or, on the other hand, as processes of killing or indirect killing…

The post Trisomy 18, Edwards Syndrome Takes the Life or Baby Marita – Her Mom creates Marita Brings Life Foundation thin 2 ours with a max. Life expectancy of 2 days This was her at 2 days old, alive and kicking. appeared first on Good News!.

Dear neighbor: Our Inauguration Celebration is rescheduled for Saturday, March 14, from 5-7pm at Alice Tully Hall.  If you would like to attend on the 14th, please re-register at our new Eventbrite HERE About the Event: Doors will open at 4pm, and entrance will be first come, first served. The Inauguration ceremony will begin at 5pm. We invite you to arrive early or stay after the ceremony for the Borough Convention and help our office and community stakeholders help set the priorities for Manhattan! Refreshments will be served. Should we exceed capacity, there will be overflow at the Martin Luther King Jr. Educational Campus auditorium. Please reach out to events@manhattanbp.nyc.gov if you have any questions or need any special accommodations. We’re excited to welcome you all on Saturday, March 14! RSVP HERE

All best regards, Brad Hoylman-Sigal Manhattan Borough President

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And then, once a year, we steal an hour back from the dark.

Daylight Saving Time isn’t just about clocks springing forward or falling back — it’s about light winning, about stretching the day like a golden ribbon across the sky. It’s about that first evening when the sun lingers just a little longer, brushing buildings in amber, turning ordinary streets into movie sets.

Time is the one thing we can’t negotiate with. It doesn’t care about fame, money, or status. It moves — steady, relentless, democratic. But Daylight Saving Time? That’s our tiny rebellion. Our collective decision to chase the light.

And if you’re going to celebrate stealing back the sun, you do it with the best of the best.

You gather the visionaries, the artists, the dreamers — the ones who understand that an extra hour of light is an extra hour to create, to perform, to love, to build legacy. The composers who turn daylight into symphonies. The singers who stretch a sunset into a standing ovation. The storytellers who know that every second counts because every second is currency.

Daylight Saving Time is a reminder:

We don’t just mark time — we make something of it.

It’s cocktails on rooftops while the sky blushes pink.

It’s rehearsals that run long because inspiration doesn’t clock out.

It’s laughter that spills into the evening air, unhurried and unapologetic.

We don’t fear the ticking clock.

We toast to it.

Because the best of the best know something most people forget — time is not meant to be managed. It’s meant to be lived. Stretched. Celebrated.

So, when the clocks shift and the light lingers, step into it.

Stand taller.

Dream bigger.

Create louder.

Top 20 Songs Out Right Now

1. “Twisted” — Scarecrow
2. “Spit” — St. Divine
3. “Younger” — Irene Michaels
4. “Texas Hold ’Em” — Beyoncé
5. “Fortnight” — Taylor Swift ft. Post Malone
6. “Lose Control” — Teddy Swims
7. “Flowers” — Miley Cyrus
8. “Another” — Paulino
9. “Orane” — Avohee Avoher
10. “Vampire” — Olivia Rodrigo
11. “Greedy” — Tate McRae
12. “On Time” — Leroy Thomas
13. “Dance The Night” — Dua Lipa
14. “Cruel Summer” — Taylor Swift
15. “Espresso” — Sabrina Carpenter
16. “Lovin On Me” — Jack Harlow
17. “Calm Down” — Rema & Selena Gomez
18. “Good Luck, Babe!” — Chappell Roan
19. “End of Beginning” — Djo
20. “Saturn” — SZA

Top 20 Indie & Rising Songs Turning Heads Right Now

The independent music world has never been more electrifying. Across rock, pop, alternative, and soul, a new wave of artists is commanding attention with fearless creativity and powerful storytelling. From gritty rock anthems to emotionally charged pop, these songs are building serious momentum across streaming platforms, radio, and live stages.

1. “Twisted” — Scarecrow

A thunderous rock statement with dark theatrical energy, Twisted delivers a cinematic punch. With the powerful presence of legendary rocker Dee Snider on the track and the commanding vocals of lead singer John Blaze, the song feels like a modern metal opera — intense, rebellious, and unforgettable.

2.   “Spit” — St. Divine

A fierce, unapologetic rock track fueled by attitude and razor-sharp energy. Spit explodes with gritty guitars and raw emotion, establishing St. Divine as a band unafraid to challenge expectations.

3. “Younger” — Irene Michaels

An uplifting pop anthem celebrating vitality and reinvention. Irene Michaels delivers a sparkling performance reminding listeners that youth is a mindset and life only becomes richer with experience.

4. “Another” — Paulino

“Another” is the energetic new single from Paulino, inspired by the simple but familiar moment of pouring another drink. Built around a catchy groove and Paulino’s signature rock-leaning vocals, the track captures the mood of late nights, good company, and the carefree feeling that comes when the music is loud and the glasses keep getting refilled. Fun, relatable, and full of attitude, “Another” turns an everyday moment into a sing-along anthem about living in the moment and going back for one more.

5. “One Moment At A Time” — Bex Lindsey

A deeply personal alternative pop release that explores healing, mental health, and resilience through haunting melodies.

6. “Orane Piano Solo (12V)” — Avohee Avoher

A breathtaking instrumental piece where the piano becomes a storyteller. Elegant and emotionally layered, the composition feels both classical and modern.

7. “Rita’s Song” — Quinn Lemley

A glamorous and soulful tribute to the golden age of Hollywood, capturing Lemley’s powerful theatrical voice.

8. “Shadow Lines” — The Midnight Echo

Atmospheric indie rock that builds slowly into a sweeping sonic landscape.

9. “Neon Angels” — Velvet Skyline

Dream-pop textures collide with retro synth energy for a hypnotic late-night soundtrack.

10. “Electric Hearts” — Nova Monroe

A dance-driven indie pop hit with a soaring chorus that refuses to leave your head.

11. “Ghost Town Lovers” — River Saints

12. “Wildfire Eyes” — Luna Vale

13. “Silver Satellite” — Atlas Bloom

14. “Dark Carnival” — The Raven Society

15. “Echoes in the Alley” — Johnny Arcade

16. “Golden Halo” — Stella Gray

17. “After Midnight” — Neon Prophets

18. “Fever Dreamer” — Indigo Riot

19. “Broken Satellites” — The Astral Kids

20. “City of Lights” — Aurora District

Together, these tracks represent the vibrant pulse of the independent music scene — artists who are shaping tomorrow’s sound without waiting for permission. From the explosive rock energy of Scarecrow and St. Divine to the radiant pop spirit of Irene Michaels, the indie landscape continues to prove that the most exciting music often comes from those willing to create their own path.

Top 20 Radio, Podcast & TV Shows Creating Buzz

Across radio, television, and digital platforms, a powerful mix of interview-driven programs, entertainment talk shows, and cultural podcasts are shaping conversations in music, film, and pop culture. From legendary hosts to rising media voices, these programs spotlight artists, creators, and industry insiders.

1. Profiles with Mickey Burns – A respected long-running television interview series featuring in-depth conversations with notable figures from entertainment, politics, and culture.

2. Saturday Night with Tony Orlando – The legendary singer brings his charisma and decades of entertainment experience to a lively talk and music program.

3. Live on Tape with Pete Trabucco – A popular platform known for engaging interviews with musicians, industry insiders, and creatives.

4. The Jeremiah Show – Hosted by Jeremiah D. Higgins, this podcast dives into music, film, and pop culture with thoughtful conversations with artists and innovators.

5. Jim Masters TV – Award-winning journalist Jim Masters hosts an insightful entertainment and lifestyle series highlighting influential personalities.

6. The Andrew Eborn Show – A dynamic program known for celebrity interviews, music discussions, and engaging conversation.

7. Gary Leavitt and Friends – A warm and entertaining show featuring conversations with artists, musicians, and personalities across the entertainment world.

8. Movie Reviews and More with Brian Sebastian – A lively entertainment program exploring film, television, and celebrity interviews.

9. If These Walls Could Talk with Wendy Stuart and Tym Moss – A vibrant interview series where Wendy Stuart and Tym Moss speak with performers, writers, and cultural figures about their journeys.

10. The Indy Hookup – A platform dedicated to independent artists, shining a spotlight on emerging voices in music and entertainment.

11. The Adventures of Pipeman– Hosted by “The Pipe Man” Dean K. Piper, this energetic show mixes music, celebrity interviews, and pop culture commentary.

12. The Jimmy Star Show with Ron Russell – A widely followed entertainment program featuring celebrity guests and lively conversations.

13. Good News with Paul Sladkus – A feel-good series highlighting positive stories, entertainment, and humanitarian efforts.

14. The Neil Haley Show – A syndicated podcast and radio program featuring interviews with celebrities, athletes, and entrepreneurs.

15. The Mike Wagner Show – A popular podcast where host Mike Wagner interviews authors, musicians, and public figures.

16. Pop Culture Weekly with Kyle McMahon – A fast-paced entertainment podcast covering film, music, and celebrity interviews.

17. The Hollywood Times Podcast – Industry conversations with actors, directors, and entertainment insiders.

18. Backstage Pass Radio – A music-focused show featuring artists, songwriters, and behind-the-scenes industry stories.

19. The Creative Coalition Podcast – Conversations with artists and changemakers about creativity and cultural impact.

20. On Air with Brandon Jay – A dynamic interview series featuring musicians, filmmakers, and entertainment personalities.

Together these programs represent a vibrant ecosystem of media platforms that champion artists, storytellers, and cultural influencers, giving audiences a front-row seat to the conversations shaping entertainment today.

Most Interesting Books to Read Right Now

From mind-bending science to mystical traditions and deeply personal storytelling, these books explore the universe, human spirituality, creativity, and the search for meaning. The following titles offer a fascinating journey across science, culture, and imagination.

1.The Case of the Sexual Cosmos – Howard Bloom

A bold and provocative exploration of evolution, desire, and the cosmic forces shaping life. Bloom connects biology, culture, and the universe in a sweeping narrative that challenges conventional thinking.

2. Modern Witchcraft Book of Natural Magick— Judy Ann Nock
A beautifully written guide to working with natural energies, rituals, and spiritual traditions rooted in the earth. It blends history, philosophy, and practical magic.

3. Waiting for Adam— Eileen Shapiro
A deeply personal and reflective story about patience, love, and the human journey of hope and transformation.

4. Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind— Yuval Noah Harari
A sweeping history of humanity that examines how biology, culture, and imagination shaped our civilization.

5. Cosmos— Carl Sagan
A timeless masterpiece exploring the universe and humanity’s place within it.

6. The Power of Now— Eckhart Tolle
A spiritual guide encouraging readers to embrace presence and consciousness.

7. The Alchemist— Paulo Coelho
A philosophical novel about destiny, dreams, and listening to one’s heart.

8. A Brief History of Time— Stephen Hawking
A fascinating explanation of black holes, time, and the nature of the universe.

9. The Celestine Prophecy— James Redfield
A spiritual adventure that blends fiction with philosophical insight.

10. The Four Agreements— Don Miguel Ruiz
A guide to personal freedom based on ancient Toltec wisdom.

11. Man’s Search for Meaning— Viktor E. Frankl
A profound reflection on resilience, suffering, and purpose.

12. Astrophysics for People in a Hurry— Neil deGrasse Tyson
Complex cosmic ideas explained in accessible, engaging language.

13. The Tao of Physics— Fritjof Capra
A fascinating bridge between modern physics and Eastern mysticism.

14. The Secret— Rhonda Byrne
A global bestseller exploring the concept of manifestation and intention.

15. Thinking, Fast and Slow— Daniel Kahneman
A groundbreaking study of how humans think and make decisions.

16. The Artist’s Way— Julia Cameron
A creative recovery guide beloved by artists, writers, and performers.

17. The Immortality Key— Brian C. Muraresku
An intriguing investigation into ancient spiritual traditions and psychedelics.

18. The Hidden Life of Trees— Peter Wohlleben
A fascinating look at the secret communication systems of forests.

19. The Universe in a Nutshell— Stephen Hawking
A visually rich journey through cosmology and theoretical physics.

20. Big Magic— Elizabeth Gilbert
A joyful meditation on creativity and living with curiosity.

Together these books explore science, spirituality, creativity, and human purpose—from Howard Bloom’s cosmic perspective to mystical traditions and deeply personal stories.

Here are some exciting upcoming events in music, entertainment, and culture featuring acclaimed performers, rising talent, and meaningful celebrations.

March 13 – 7:30 PM

Randy Edelman at Cinema Arts Centre

Legendary composer Randy Edelman appears for a special evening at the Cinema Arts Centre in Huntington. The event celebrates his iconic film music and career, featuring conversation, stories from Hollywood, and an intimate look at the creative mind behind some of cinema’s most beloved scores.

March 14 – 6:30 PM

Randy Edelman at Aman New York Jazz Club

An elegant night of music as Randy Edelman performs at the luxurious Aman Jazz Club. Known for its intimate setting and world-class acoustics, the evening promises an unforgettable live performance.

March 29 – 10:00 PM

FENIX Rising Showcase at The Bitter End

The legendary Greenwich Village venue hosts another FENIX Rising night, spotlighting emerging artists and creative voices in a high-energy music showcase.

April 22 – All Day

Earth Day Celebration in Times Square

Produced by Paul Sladkus, this all-day event brings music, activism, and environmental awareness together in the heart of New York City. The celebration highlights sustainability, unity, and global responsibility.

April 23 – 7:30 PM

Irene Michaels at Don’t Tell Mama

Singer and performer Irene Michaels takes the stage for a special cabaret evening filled with music, storytelling, and her signature vibrant energy.

April 25 – 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Talent Showcase at Open Jar Studios

A dynamic afternoon spotlighting new performers, singers, and creatives. The showcase offers rising talent the opportunity to perform and connect with industry professionals.

From intimate jazz performances to major cultural celebrations in Times Square, these events highlight the creative pulse of the upcoming season.

The post Celebrating Daylight Savings Time with the Best of the Best appeared first on Good News!.

Horse is this year’s zodiac (2026), and the 7th animal in the 12-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac signs, coming after the Snake and before the Goat. Recent years of the Horse include 2026, 2014, 2002, 1990, 1978, 1966, and 1954, with the next Horse year in 2038 (Year of the Earth Horse). It is associated with the earthly branch sign of wu.

According to Chinese astrology, Horse is confident, agreeable, and responsible, although they also tend to dislike being reined in by others. They’re fit and intelligent, adoring physical and mental exertion; they’re decisive but also easily swayed and impatient.

Chinese Zodiac Years for Horse

The Chinese zodiacs, like many aspects of traditional Chinese culture, are derived from the Chinese lunar calendar, which does not correspond exactly with the Gregorian calendar. You can use our calculator below to quickly find your sign.

For those born in January or February, pay special attention to when the Chinese New Year begins, as your zodiac animal sign may fall in the previous year’s cycle (see the chart below).

for more info, go to Year of the Horse: Fortune, Personality, Horoscope (2026)

Meaning of the Fire Horse in Lunar New Year (2026)

The Lunar New Year of 2026 marks the Year of the Fire Horse in the Chinese zodiac cycle.

In Chinese astrology:

The Horse symbolizes energy, freedom, speed, and strong spirit.

The Fire element represents passion, intensity, ambition, and leadership.

When combined, the Fire Horse represents:

Powerful drive and determination

Boldness and independence

Charisma and strong personality

Fast-moving change and dynamic energy

A Fire Horse year is often seen as a time of action, transformation, and high motivation. However, because both Horse and Fire are very strong energies, it can also bring impulsiveness or dramatic shifts.

In short, the Lunar New Year Fire Horse symbolizes a year of passion, courage, and powerful forward movement.

Year of the fire horse – explained: the Chinese zodiac sign that’s all about intensity

Explainer

Year of the fire horse – explained: the Chinese zodiac sign that’s all about intensity

Lunar new year has ushered in a rare zodiac symbol with a reputation for energy and independence

As the lunar new year begins, the focus has turned to the Chinese zodiac and the arrival of the year of the fire horse – a rare pairing in the 60-year lunar cycle.

Drawing on Chinese metaphysics, the fire horse blends the horse’s reputation for energy and independence with the intensity of the fire element, giving it a distinct place in the zodiac tradition.

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What is the Chinese zodiac and the five elements?

The Chinese zodiac is a 12-year cycle in which each year is represented by an animal sign: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. With roots in ancient lunar calendar traditions, the system places certain personality traits under various birth years.

Alongside the animals, Chinese astrology incorporates the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. These elements rotate with the zodiac animals, creating a 60-year cycle. Each element is believed to influence one’s traits and destiny.

“The metaphysical theory is that everything on this Earth, including humans, are made up of these five elements and then within these elements, there are yin and yang versions,” the holistic Chinese astrologer Lydia Lee says.

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How and when does the fire horse occur?

Once every 60 years, the fire horse is created by pairing the horse with the fire element.

The Chinese zodiac system combines 12 animal signs with the 10 heavenly stems, or 10 symbols that represent the five elements, each in yin and yang forms.

As the animal signs and elements rotate together year by year, every zodiac year is assigned an animal and element. A fire horse year is often described as being fast-moving and high-energy. The last fire horse was in 1966, when China’s Cultural Revolution began, a time of political and social upheaval.

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What are the personality traits of the fire horse?

People born in horse years are forthright, strong in reasoning and alert, says Ming Shao, a Melbourne-based feng shui expert. “They are also eloquent … and known for being impatient, wilful [and] heroic individuals,” he says. Adding fire “intensifies” the horse’s characteristics including dynamism, energy, dedication and leadership, according to Shao.

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What is predicted for the fire horse year?

Experts say the fire horse year is widely expected to bring intense, fast-paced change on a personal and global level.

Xiaohuan Zhao, a professor in Chinese studies at the University of Sydney, says “rather than predicting disaster, traditional readings frame the fire horse year as a period where heightened energy needs to be managed wisely”.

“Slowing down before making major decisions, staying grounded, and cultivating emotional steadiness are … key ways to navigate the year’s momentum”, he adds.

Grace Niu, a Sydney-based feng shui consultant, also suggests caution, saying that the fire horse year amplifies every natural trait to an intense degree, resulting in “unstoppable drive [and] immense passion … but like a wildfire, that energy must be directed or it can burn through everything – including themselves”.

Pan Wang, an associate professor of Chinese studies at the University of New South Wales, says that based on historical patterns, the fire horse year is predicted to be a challenging period marked by upheaval. “The fire element can manifest as instability and violence, as well as heated economic development and rapid, sometimes reckless, growth.”

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Could any industries, zodiac signs or age groups be especially affected?

According to Zhao, industries “connected with movement, heat or rapid change such as technology, finance, transportation, energy and entertainment may feel the fire horse year’s fast and intense pace more strongly”.

In Chinese astrology, the fire horse and those with rat signs are considered a challenging match: the horse’s impulsive, high-energy nature clashes with the rat’s cautious and strategic approach. Other zodiac signs expected to be most affected by the fire horse include the rabbit and the ox.

But not all clashes are bad. For Lee, clashes in energy can bring vital change. “When we experience our lives being stagnant … we actually welcome clashes because it can be transformed into breakthroughs,” she says.

Niu says people entering new life chapters, such as those turning 30, 42, or 60 years old, may find the energy creating a profound rite of passage.

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What’s the best way to navigate the year?

The key is to stay grounded. Balancing the fire with water-element practices such as slowing down, meditating and hydrating can help, the Sydney-based feng shui expert Mina Zheng says.

Everybody will experience too much fire, she says, adding: “We need to drink a lot more water, more than before, and we also need to cherish water.”

Zheng highlights the balancing power of the earth element to help offset fire. She recommends eating more earthy root vegetables like potatoes and carrots.

Thierry Chow, a Hong Kong-based feng shui expert, suggests wearing certain colours. She says those born in the summer months should “wear more cool tones to help balance out the heavy fire … such as silver, gold, blue and white”.

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Is the fire horse something to fear?

Definitely do not fear, Pan says. “I think the fire horse is a self-paradoxical year: it can bring extreme success, such as rapid career progression, but it can also be extremely challenging if one burns out or succumbs to anxiety, which may lead to failure. That said, if we harness the fire horse well, there’s nothing to fear. Embrace the challenge and find a balance!”

The post Chinese New Year 2026—Year of the Horse appeared first on Good News!.

TODAY 4pm: Pride Flag Rally at the Stonewall National Monument In the wake of the Trump administration’s anti-queer decision to remove the Pride flag from Stonewall National Monument earlier this week, I’m joining other elected officials and activists to re-raise the flag and protest this erasure of LGBTQ+ Americans and our history. I invite you to join us today, Thursday, February 12 at 4pm at the Stonewall National Monument (38-64 Christopher St.) and rally in support of protecting our community from these ongoing extremist attacks. Manhattan is the home of Pride and we will not be silenced. Calling museums, public schools & nonprofits Need capital funding for an arts or cultural project? Apply by February 19: bpbhs.com/budget Plus – we’re actively seeking partners to match and help make every dollar go further. Apply or Get More Info Here Want to have a greater voice in how matters like housing, transit, sanitation, and more are decided in your neighborhood? Then apply for one of the 300+ open community board seats! Applications are open through February 27 – apply here. You can learn about the location and work of your community board here. You must be at least 16 years old and live, work, or attend school in the community board to which you’re applying. Apply by February 27

Please join me Sunday, February 22, from 1 – 4 pm, at Alice Tully Hall for my Inauguration as Manhattan’s 29th Borough President—and our first ever Borough Convention.   We’ll feature discussion stations where you can help us map out priorities on housing, transit, public health and education. We’ll also have immersive, hands-on activities, including: • Record your personal history with StoryCorps • “Build a Dream Borough” mapmaking project • Anti-ICE “Know Your Rights” station   Refreshments will be served; bring your family, friends—and your ideas!   RSVP Here Meet Deputy Manhattan Borough President Miesha Smith We’re thrilled to welcome Miesha Smith as Deputy Manhattan Borough President, who brings a deep commitment to public service, higher education, small business vitality, and equity for working families. A Harlem resident and the daughter of immigrants from Guyana, DBP Smith was most recently Assistant Dean for Student Life at Hunter College, where she launched Hunter’s food pantry and fresh food program, expanded emergency support services, and advanced initiatives that improved student retention and graduation. In her new role, DBP Smith will focus on supporting public education, strengthening small businesses, and advancing arts and culture. Take the NYC LGBTQIA+ Community Safety Survey Take this brief survey to help identify safety concerns among LGBTQ New Yorkers and understand the dynamics between the community and the NYPD. Conducted by the NYPD’s LGBTQIA+ Advisory Committee, the data collected will help create a 2026 Safety Benchmark used to advocate for policy changes and a more equitable public safety environment. Take the Survey OMNY Call Center Now Available 24/7   The OMNY Call Center is now available 24/7, able to answer questions about trips and transactions and assist riders with any inquiries or issues. While speaking with an OMNY Customer Service representative, riders can access their OMNY account, hear their trips and charges, manage their travel cards, and more.   Riders can call the OMNY Call Center at 877-789-6669 or use the digital chat function available on the lower righthand side of the OMNY website.   All best regards, Brad Hoylman-Sigal Manhattan Borough President

The post Today at 4PM: Re-Raising the Pride Flag at Stonewall appeared first on Good News!.

www.myelderlawattorney.com
Reverend Paul Sladkus All Faiths and Spiritual Co-Hosts www.pausetheworldforpeace.org

#Ann-MargaretCarrozza

The post SUNDAY LIVE # 1 BEST SELLING AUTHOR ANN- MARGARET CARROZZA ON WOR 710 AT 10:30AM, CALL IN DISCUSSING PROTECTING YOUR ASSETS…ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS YOU CAN DO appeared first on Good News!.

The Auschwitz Research Center on Hate, Extremism, and Radicalization

ARCHER at House 88

I would like to invite you to join me

for special performance by

Italian Pianist, Composer, and Musicologist,

Francesco Lotoro in a Concert titled

Enduring Music:

Compositions from the Holocaust

The special performance will take place

TONIGHT

January 27, 2026 at 7:30

in the

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

to commemorate

International Holocaust Remembrance Day.

Ezra Friedlander

To learn more about the concert, please

visit https://endantisemitismfund.com/event/

The post Invitation: Enduring Music: Compositions From the Holocaust appeared first on Good News!.

#MarkLevine #BoricuaCollege

The post College and Career Fair Hosted by BP Levine, District 75 and Manhattan HS appeared first on Good News!.

Listen to “The Trust for Public Land revitalizes PS 197 in Brooklyn – YAYYYYYY” on Spreaker.

Our organization is a national nonprofit that works to connect everyone to the benefits and joys of the outdoors.

#PS197

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