There is something extraordinary about watching the world gather in the center of the world.

Every April 22, Earth Day transforms Times Square into a global green stage — a place where music, environmental awareness, and collective responsibility collide in the most powerful way. Under the leadership of producer and humanitarian Paul Sladkus, the flashing lights of Broadway become a beacon for sustainability, hope, and action.

Artists perform. Activists speak. Screens that usually sell products instead amplify purpose. In a place known for movement, Earth Day asks us to think about preservation — the air we breathe, the oceans we depend on, the planet we call home. It is celebration with conscience. Energy with intention.

And then, in September, something even more profound happens.

Pause for Peace.

Also orchestrated by Paul Sladkus in Times Square, this gathering shifts the frequency from environmental awareness to global unity. Inspired by the spirit of international peace initiatives, the event invites the world — quite literally — to stop for a moment. In the middle of honking taxis, tourist chatter, and digital billboards, thousands come together to breathe… reflect… and stand for harmony.

It is a rare and moving sight: Times Square in intentional stillness.

A symbolic heartbeat for humanity.

Music once again plays a central role — because music crosses borders faster than politics ever could. Performers lend their voices to messages of compassion, non-violence, and understanding. Peace ambassadors, community leaders, and artists stand shoulder to shoulder, reminding us that unity is not naïve — it is necessary.

Earth Day calls us to protect our planet.

Pause for Peace calls us to protect each other.

Together, these Times Square gatherings reflect Paul Sladkus’ belief that entertainment can be transformational. That stages can become platforms. That crowds can become communities.

In the very place where the world meets, he creates moments where the world listens.

And for a few luminous hours each year, Times Square doesn’t just shine.

It heals.

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https://shorturl.at/YkS1y

Île Maison invites you to the Presidential Palace of Malta — for a transformative week where innovation meets heritage to shape the future.

ÎLE MAISON is proud to be an official media partner of SuperCharger FESTA 2025, an exclusive six-day celebration of visionary entrepreneurship, investment, and legacy — taking place June 23–28 at one of Malta’s most iconic historic landmarks.  Complimentary Full Festival Pass ($200 value) available for Île Maison Privé members — reach out to RSVP. I’ll be attending in person and would love to connect.

Become a Member of Île Maison Privé The Legacy Club We are now welcoming bespoke memberships for those who align with the Île Maison Privé ethos: artful living, purposeful wealth, legacy, and visionary leadership. → Bespoke options available. Please reply directly to explore a custom pathway into the Île Maison Privé world.  Learn More

Secure Your Legacy Page in ÎM Collectible Our Annual Collector’s Edition

https://shorturl.at/dXkC9

We are currently curating LEGACY PAGES in the upcoming ÎM Collectible — our signature printed edition that celebrates heritage-driven living and timeless investment. One of our featured properties: Château de Mercuès, France

Château de Mercuès is a 13th-century Relais & Châteaux estate with a Michelin-starred restaurant, historic vineyard, and bold vision for the future. A living embodiment of legacy. If you’d like your château, estate, or family legacy story to be considered for this timeless publication, reach out now. Space is limited.

The Long-Awaited Visionary Edition “The ÎM Collectible Annual is more than a magazine—it is a statement of legacy, a curated masterpiece designed for those shaping the future. This long-awaited, limited-edition print is an annual celebration of artful living, visionary leadership, and the bold narratives that define our era.” —Ilona Lee Limited Print. Timeless Impact. Secure Your Copy Now.  REQUEST

 

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Good News

Unsplash+ In collaboration with Andrej Lišakov May 12, 2023

Compelling climate narratives in television shows and movies can help shift attitudes on climate change, a new study finds! Over a thousand participants were recruited, and researchers divided them into two groups. Half watched a climate-focused episode of Madam Secretary about a super typhoon menacing the Pacific Island nation of Nauru. The other half watched another episode of the same show about U.S. involvement in the Middle East.

People who watched the climate episode experienced “a substantial increase” in their level of concern about climate change and their support for government action. Researchers found this change persisted even two weeks after people watched the episode.

Good Energy (started by my friend Anna Jane Joyner) has a simple test for movies and TV shows to see if they’re talking about climate change. First, does climate change exist in the story world? And second, is a character aware of it? 

For a long time, the answer was usually “no” – but that’s changing now. The fifth-annual Hollywood Climate Summit wrapped up this week, where creators of all stripes came together to talk about how to best include climate in their plot lines. Just like climate change touches everything in our world, I’m convinced every story can have a climate element to it – and it’s good news to see that this is becoming more common and that it …

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https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/8zinz_9gL-ftulDaoJi0Jw
EPREAD THE WORDS for OUR JCC GROUP EXHIBITION

        In the past year, the board of directors of the JCC (Jewish Community Center) has met several times to organize a group exhibition joined by more than two dozens of American and Chinese artists invited by, Jing Bao, the owner of Jing Bao’s Moonlight Art Studio, and the president of JIUYA Art Association, XiaoFeng Tong.

And the secret guest will show up in the opening, famous actor SiHan Sun( 孙思翰）

After researching and proofreading, the board of directors of JCC have made decision to present a calligraphy and painting group exhibition with Jing Bao and XiaoFeng Tong, titled as “West Meets East”.

This group exhibition will be a highlight event at the JCC to begin 2023. It includes the artwork of several renowned international artists from America and China, such as Xiaoqing Liu, a famous Chinese actress also known for her calligraphy; 1000 pieces of her calligraphy were sold out within 1 hour last year when she did a live TV Sale for her fan. Chris Spollen, whose artworks have been collected and shown in America, Europe, and China; the Pentagon has an art of his hung on the wall today. Joe Ciardiello, Michael Garland, and Daniel Pelavin, internationally known artists, illustrators, and authors, their work have been featured on most major magazines, newspapers, and for corporate and advertising clients, book publishers and record companies, such as American Express, Audubon, Barnes & Noble, Capitol Records, The Nation, The New Yorker, The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Rolling Stone and Time. Their works were included in numerous group exhibitions at museums, galleries, universities, CBS NBC and ABC and many others in the entertainment field throughout the country.
Professor Dazhou Wang has partnered with prominent corporations such as Disney, MTV, Victoria’s Secret, Estee Lauder, Revlon, Clinique, Guess, Brooks Brothers, etc. to develop and design numerous projects. In addition, he has also collaborated with many eminent designers such as Donna Karan, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, and so on in product development and design. His art also have been featured around the world including various exhibitions in China which received numerous awards.

The group exhibition also includes famous calligrapher ChangJiang Wang, ShouWu Cong, Chinese painting painter Wei Xu, Staten Island local artist Bill Murphy, and David Bamundo.

As the presenter, professor Jing Bao also has her paintings featured in this amazing group exhibition.

JINGBAO’S MOONLIGHT ART STUDIO.  My Instagram: jingbao88, My Blog:

http://luckyjingbao.blogspot.com/

https://www.instagram.com/jingbao88/

http://luckyjingbao.blogspot.com

http://luckyjingbao.blogspot.com/2016/11/book-signing-at-barnes-and-noble-nov12.html

https://www.amazon.com/giorno-Staten-Island-nonna-Santino/dp/1942500238

https://www.amazon.com/Silly-School-Stephen-Ukeiley/dp/1942500157

The opening reception will be on January 19, 2023, starts at 6pm.
FREE and open to the public, display January 11, 2023 to February 28,2023
The address is Murry Berman Art Gallery,
1466 Manor Road, Staten Island, NY 10314

#statenisland #jingbao #moonlight #jiuyaartshow #xiaofengtong #sihansun #artstudio #jcc #jewishcommunitycenter #americanartist #chineseartist #westmeetseast

The post Staten Island JCC FREE ART SHOW, Jing Bao’s Moonlight Art Studio and the president of JIUYA Art Association, XiaoFeng Tong.  appeared first on Good News!.

PUZZLING SKIN CONDITION AFFECTS MORE THAN MEETS THE EYE
THE HIDDEN REALITY OF LIVING WITH A CHRONIC SKIN DISEASE

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an under-recognized and chronic inflammatory skin condition caused by an overactive immune system that can often go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years. The symptoms of HS include recurrent, painful abscesses and lesions and can have a significant physical, mental and social impact. HS can be progressive and increase in severity over time.

HS also presents itself in sensitive areas like the armpits, groin and under the breasts and buttocks, so it may be hidden by clothing – leaving many to suffer in silence. Further, the lack of awareness around this disease may lead to patients going undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for seven or more years. Patients may visit a number of doctors before finding a dermatologist with experience in managing HS to confirm diagnosis and determine a plan that best fits their specific needs.

Dr. Joslyn Kirby, a dermatologist with Penn State University, will bring greater understanding about HS by sharing how it’s more than just an inflammatory skin disease. Dr. Kirby will also discuss the importance for HS patients – along with their caregivers – to advocate for their care and seek out a dermatologist with experience treating HS who can help patients to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.

Interview courtesy: AbbVie Inc.

#november #healthy #skin #month #condition #meets #eyes #eye #chronic #disease #hidradenitis #suppurativa #hs #inflammatory #overactive #immune #system #undiagnosed #misdiagnosed #symptoms #recurrent #painful #abscesses #lesions #physical #mental #social #impact #increase #dermatologist #penn #state #university #psu #caregivers #treatment

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New York City is without question full of great voice teachers, dance classes and theatre programmes but as someone who received most of my music training in England what I miss (as both a student and a teacher) is the opportunity to earn qualifications and performance certificates through voice lessons. Wanting my students to be able to have this experience, I am very excited to be representing The University of West London’s examination Center in New York. From January of 2015 music and theatre students of all ages and ability levels will be able to take examinations and start earning their certificates. It will also allow any adult attending a conservatory program that is not accredited the chance to earn a universally recognised Diploma in their craft.

In Britain it is standard practice for students of most musical instruments/voice/acting to work their way through grades (1-8) – 1 being for the beginner – 8 representing  A – Level standard (the English SAT equivalent that gets students into University). In fact a high score in a grade 8 examination can help a student earn points to gain entry into Universities and Music Conservatories. Once you have completed your Grade 8 (an achievement to be extremely proud of) there is then the option of studying for a Diploma which is recognised as being the equivalent of an undergraduate level of ability.

The University of West London is the top institution in England for these examinations and has an excellent reputation as well as some of the country’s most accomplished musicians judging the students. They are very much looking forward to forging this relationship with the wealth of talent that New York has to offer.

Now, taking an “exam” in singing is not as scary or laborious as it might sound: Studying for these exams are done in your private lessons so will not take extra time away from homework or other commitments. More importantly, they are a fun and are designed to recognise and reward personal achievement (whether you learn for fun or have your sights set on the Great a White Way!). Students get to put together a recital of songs they love, stage them, use costumes and perform for one judge. It is a great way to build confidence and have a real goal to be working towards – in return you get a certificate confirming your success.

The first crop of New York candidates are already busy preparing: choosing songs and learning dance moves, finding props – the opportunities for creativity are endless! The kids have all really embraced having a project to work towards and are having a great time rehearsing for their own one person show.

Learning to sing, and indeed these examinations, is not just for those with professional ambitions – the benefits (and just pure joy) that learning a musical instrument can bring to a child’s life are huge. Lessons develop confidence, self esteem, and discipline: the rewards of dedication and commitment to your instrument are easily seen in every stride and improvement. Jill Goldstein has certainly witnessed this in her daughter Ingrid Wernstrom (11):

“Ingrid has been taking voice lessons for a couple of years with Racheal. Ingrid adores her lessons. It is really the highlight of her week. I think the one of the things she loves about it is that she herself has seen a huge improvement in the quality of her singing. Her ability to project her voice and show emotions through her singing has come so far and she feels really good and proud of herself. I’m always happy to encourage my kids to do things that boost their self-esteem and make them feel good. For Ingrid, singing is that thing. The addition of practicing for the new examination system is an added incentive to work hard. Ingrid will be able to see her hard work paying off in performance certificates. And I think it is important for her to have a goal that she is working towards.”

Getting the chance to progress through these certificates played a huge role in my singing training and helped me to develop skills that have been invaluable in my own performing career – I can’t wait to see what the talented kids of New York are able to achieve. Oh, and the adults too – it is never too late to start those lessons you’ve always wanted!

Racheal Owens

Racheal Owens is the host of Good News England. Originally from Wolverhampton, England she is an actress, singer and teaching artist based in New York City

The post The West End meets Broadway: London Musical Theatre Qualifications coming to New York By Racheal Owens appeared first on Good News!.

“Commissioner Nigro and I share a commitment to the safety of Brooklyn, and I am excited to see how we will further this partnership in the months ahead,” said Borough President Adams. “We must pursue an approach of prevention when we think of safety, learning how to avoid disaster and tragedy before they befall us and our families; this philosophy includes our approach to fire safety, in conjunction with the FDNY. I also look forward to helping Commissioner Nigro achieve a shared vision of a diverse, well-equipped corps of firefighters and EMTs.”

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Autism Spectrum Disorders or “ASDs,” are described by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a group of developmental disabilities that can cause “significant social, communication and behavioral challenges.”

Today, Autism Spectrum Disorders are growing at epidemic rates — affecting 1 in 88 individuals and 1 in 54 boys. Many people with ASDs suffer anxiety, sleep disturbances, poor self-regulation, and sensory sensitivities… all of which “significantly” impair daily functioning… and quality of life.

Founders and Members of the David Lynch Foundation, the Joey Lowenstein Foundation and the Center for Assessment and Treatment for Autism discussed the effects of a simple, evidence-based meditation technique, practiced by more than FIVE million people, popularly known as Transcendental Meditation, or TM. It has been found capable of improving these symptoms in the treatment of ASDs.

People with ASDs “frequently” struggle with transition and changes in routine, and find social interactions… stressful. Friendships tend to be challenging; individuals with ASD commonly struggle to perceive social cues, interpret the social intentions of others, recognize the impact of their “own” actions in social situations… and respond in socially conventional ways.

Reducing stress and anxiety has the potential to “significantly” improve the quality of life of people with ASDs… and their families.  However, current treatment for anxiety and stress is very limited.

Transcendental Meditation is a simple, effortless technique practiced for just 15 to 20 minutes, TWICE a day, by adults, and 10 to 12 minutes TWICE a day by adolescents.  It is practiced by sitting comfortably with your eyes CLOSED.  People of ALL ages and backgrounds (including those with ASD) are able to learn and practice TM.

During TM sessions, the individual experiences a unique state of deep rest and heightened alertness, which reduces stress… and promotes more coherent brain functioning.

Why is THIS relevant today?

Because conventional treatment options for ASDs are “limited.” TM is has an “excellent” record of success for reducing anxiety and stress, and improving the quality of life for children AND adults with autism.

Two “leading” scientific experts, Norman Rosenthal, MD and David Black, MD addressed the impact of Transcendental Meditation on stress, anxiety and health… and its impact on autism.

Dr. Rosenthal is the world-renowned psychiatrist who first described seasonal affective disorder(SAD) and pioneered the use of light therapy, which has helped millions of people around the world.  For this, he was awarded the prestigious Anna Monika International Prize for Research.

He is an expert on the medical benefits of Transcendental Meditation, the author of over 200 scholarly articles and the best-selling author of 8 popular books, including “Transcendence,” and most recently, “The Gift of Adversity.”  He is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Georgetown University School of Medicine.

Dr. Rosenthal stated “Transcendental meditation can reduce blood pressure, anxiety, fight or flight response, and is a legitimate treatment for hypertension. With Autism Spectrum Disorders symptoms of anxiety are diminished with the regular practice of TM. With a decrease in anxiety there is less chance of tantrums, emotional regulation is improved and leads to the individual’s ability adapt to new things – foods, people, changes in schedule, etc.”

Dr. Black is a pediatric neuropsychologist and scientist, who is a nationally-recognized expert in autism spectrum and related disorders. He has spent much of the last ten years working clinically with children, adolescents, and adults with autism spectrum disorders. He is a researcher in the Pediatrics and Developmental Neuroscience Branch at the National Institute of Mental Health, NIH… where he has been investigating the factors that contribute to the best outcomes among children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorders.

Dr. Black stated, “All medications have side effects as opposed to Transcendental Meditation which has no side effects.”

This webinar was co-hosted by the David Lynch Foundation, the Center for Autism Assessment and Treatment—and the Joey Lowenstein Foundation.

Although not formally taught, Joey could read. He could perform eighth grade math. He is witty. He can write poetry; possessing a wisdom well beyond his teenage years. His Rabbi describes Joey as ‘an old soul.’

Roberta Lowenstein is the mother of an extraordinary young man with autism, 17-year-old Joey Lowenstein. She is also the Founder and Chair of the Joey Lowenstein Foundation, a nonprofit which focuses on Athletics, Nutrition, Self-Development,   RPM(RapidPromptingMethod), and Seizure and Brain Research.

Diagnosed with autism at the age of 2, Joey — and Roberta — have endured much over the years. The most inspiring of which was Joey’s recent conquering of a 14-year virtual silence. Unable to communicate through typical speech (or so was thought), Joey had uttered few words through the age of 14.

However, this changed two years ago when Joey’s mother discovered a method of communicating called Rapid Prompting Method (RPM). RPM is an educational platform that utilizes a letter board to facilitate education and communication. Having tried dozens of therapies over the years nothing could have prepared Roberta for what was coming.

What was previously impossible became possible when Joey began using a letter board to speak. The flood gates of communication opened (and so had Roberta’s tears) releasing 14 years of ‘bottled-up’ expression, thoughts concealed, fears and dreams for the future.

Through fundraising, the Foundation will have the resources to help people who have autism, in the words of Joey, “Break the Barriers of Autism” and find their own bridge to communicating WHO they are, and WHAT they are capable of doing with their “unique” gifts.

Roberta stated that her relationship with her son, Joey, improved greatly through the regular practice of TM. This shared quiet time or “going within” has helped Joey find  inspiration. Soon after he began practicing TM he started his own blog “Earnest to Learn”. Soon after Joey told his mother that he wanted to start a business or foundation to help others like him to find their voice and maximize their potential. He does not want to be limited by his disorder and wants others to know they can “Break the Barriers of Autism” too. Clearly, Joey is a remarkable young man.

Dr. Stixrud is an eminent clinical neuro-psychologist and an expert in the assessment of children and adolescents with learning, social, and emotional disorders.  He has authored book chapters and articles on the adolescent brain, the effects of stress on learning and emotional development, and the benefits of Transcendental Meditation for students with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder or ADHD.

He is a member of the Adjunct Faculty at the Children’s National Medical Center, AND he is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Behavioral Sciences, and Pediatrics, at the George Washington University School of Medicine.

Dr. Stixrud stated, “The benefits of TM were dramatic among autistic individuals since their experience of the world is intense. Autistic individuals are wired for stress and anxiety. These individuals do not feel safe and often out of control. When they practice TM they find a safe “address” within themselves.”

Dr. Sarina Grosswald is an expert in cognitive learning, focusing on improving stress-related disorders. Her first-of-its-kind research on the effects of the Transcendental Meditation program on children with ADHD and Autism spectrum, received “worldwide” attention.   She has published and lectured extensively in the fields of medicine and education.   Her work has also been featured in:  US News and World Report,  Business Week, Newsweek, International Herald Tribune, Barron’s, ABC News, and PBS.

She stated “TM is great for the developing brain and the prefrontal cortex. TM increases mental flexibility and a willingness to interact with others which leads to a reduction in stress for individual and their family. It helps the autistic individual create a wider world. Two areas of impairment for autistic individuals is their ability to sleep and ability to socialize. These areas improve greatly while practicing TM.”

In the words of Joey Lowenstein, “TM helps you find tranquility within. Stay cool and you can take the heat.”

If you are interested in learning more about Transcendental Meditation and how IT can be used to help you or a family member – or your clients – with Autism Spectrum Disorder, please write to:

AUTISM@DAVIDLYNCHFOUNDATION.ORG.

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