The following interview with HYPNOSIA's guitarist / vocalist Mikael "Cab" Castervall was originally published in Bells Of Acheron zine # 3, but since these Swedish Thrashers unfortunately don't exist anymore and the interview covers the band's entire history, we figured it would be a good idea to re-use it here for all those of you who don't buy printed zines anymore… due to laziness, lack of money or whatever reason (shame on you). Anyway, enjoy the ride!
Greetings Cab, how do you feel today to remember some things about your past days with HYPNOSIA? Did it surprise you that a fanzine printed in Colombia writes to you to speak about HYPNOSIA after a long time?
"Hello my friend! It was quite strange to receive an interview request from Colombia, I have to admit! Once in a while I get an interview, but they are few and far between nowadays. I am always nostalgic and think of the past in every way very often, so it definitely feels great to talk about HYPNOSIA again!"
How is the activity with PORTRAIT nowadays? Is everything easier than in the past days with HYPNOSIA? In my opinion HYPNOSIA was more of an underground band. Do you miss something from those days?
"PORTRAIT just released the third opus, entitled "Crossroads" in April, and now we are doing a few Summer festivals, and some smaller things in the Autumn / Winter. I joined the band, whom I have known for a long time before, in December 2012, which means I have been integrated well into that sphere. After I joined we fully concentrated on making the "Crossroads" album, which took less than a year. We worked very hard on the album, making it diverse in songwriting, and to make it timeless, which I really think we succeeded in. There is much difference between HYPNOSIA and PORTRAIT in every aspect of being in a band. As we now are signed to Metal Blade Records, it certainly runs in a more controlled way regarding deadlines, expectations from the label and quality of the releases. A much bigger promotion machine helps the band to get recognized, and interviews are set-up regularily. The internet is used in a completely different way now than in 1995 when HYPNOSIA started. Even when we disbanded in 2002, the internet was used differently. What I miss from the days when I started the band up, is that I came from a time without internet and cellphones. You had to be a total Metal maniac seeking out more and more obscure bands out without any help than perhaps a few 'zines, a radio show or word of mouth. That was pure devotion. If you saw someone with an old DESTRUCTION shirt, you know he was a good guy and you had a lot in common. Nowadays I don't trust anyone, as it is so simple to buy an old shirt or any record ever released. People today buy an "underground" lifestyle, whereas in the 1980's and '90's only the true were into the underground."
Let's start with the end, what was the main reason to end HYPNOSIA in 2002? Maybe your intention was to avoid what happened with almost all the great Thrash bands? That they lost the strength and the aggressiveness after some time…
"Well, it was many reasons for breaking up the band. Lack of motivation was the major reason. It was 7 years of struggle with everything and I just felt it wasn't worth it anymore. I just wanted to go back to being a Hardrocker who could listen to his favourite albums without thinking about HYPNOSIA 24/7."
Why did you choose the name HYPNOSIA? Did you play in other bands before (was DIMENSIONS really a band)?
"No one really played in any bands before DIMENSIONS, except for the second guitarist who played in a Thrash Metal band called ASTRAY, which formed in 1989, and had one or two demos out. DIMENSIONS was definitely a real band! We started in April 1993, and it was a mix of the styles we liked at the time, mostly Thrash and Death Metal. It was a good learning period, as I learned very much from the other guitarist in the band. We did play about 10 or so shows locally, but we were more like kids playing and learning. We didn't have our minds set to release an album or do touring or anything like that! We started recording a demo, but never finished it. From what I recall it just faded into obscurity, as no one really cared for the recording and the style of the band was too incoherent. I hade started making riffs, but didn't want to waste them in DIMENSIONS. I wanted my own band where I was the dictator, haha! In the summer of 1994, the drummer in DIMENSIONS and I had started to rehearse by ourselves, trying out my riffs and songs and later that year we decided to leave DIMENSIONS to fully concentrate on the new band. We wanted a name as fast as possible, it seems easier to strive at being a real band with a band name as early on as possible. We were called RESTRAIN for a brief period, before settling for HYPNOSIA. It sounded cool and very Thrash Metal. I think it was subcinsciously taken from SEPULTURA's 'Mass Hypnosis', but to avoid having another band with the name HYPNOSIS we did it the Brazilian way and changed it to HYPNOSIA. We are still the only Metal band with that name, so I guess it was a good choice?!"
The first demo "Crushed Existence" really attracted attention from the underground. I am surprised by the great sound of the demo, it was very good produced for a debut, with a clear sound, but still powerful and aggressive. Had you always everything so well thought out before you start the recordings or had you any special consulting?
"The sound on that demo was pure luck! My old friend from DIMENSIONS handled the studio, and we just recorded and mixed everything on analog 8-track equipment in two days. I really like the guitar sound on the recording, it's very Death Metal! Though my favourite sound was and still is SODOM's "Agent Orange", and that was really what we were aiming for, no kidding!"
A key moment was when after you sent the "Crushed Existence" demo to several zines and labels… You received an answer from Rogga Petterson (vocalist for the masters MERCILESS), who was writing for Putrefaction zine in those days. Do you still keep in touch with him? What is it known in Sweden about MERCILESS today?
"That was a great feeling! I had been a fan of MERCILESS since "The Awakening" was released in 1990, and to have such good words and also an interview for Putrefaction Mag coming directly from Rogga was incredible! I could sense that if he, who is a legend, likes us, we are on the right track. We were also featured in many other 'zines that were important at that particular time, so all in all, being heavily involved in the underground helped us a lot. Putrefaction Mag and MERCILESS both had a very good reputation in the underground and it turned the "right" people into HYPNOSIA, at least I think so. I have not had any real contact with Rogga of MERCILESS after the '90s were over. I did visit a few of their shows in the arly turn of the new millennium. It has been really quiet around MERCILESS the last 5-10 years. I don't know if they exist anymore. Truly a great band who is criminally underrated!"
Talking about this topic, what happened with Tomas from Putrefaction Zine / Iron Fist Productions? At the end, did you receive the money which he owed you after the edition of the HYPNOSIA's material?
"I have met Tomas a few times at records fairs in southern Sweden the last couple of years, and he is a nice person. We never got the money, but that is in the past, and I don't hold any grudge towards him anymore. As we didn't get any money for the recording of "Violent Intensity", I just did whatever I wanted with the recording afterwards. Hammerheart Records was allowed to include it as bonus tracks for the digipak version of the "Extreme Hatred" album, and also the tracks are featured on this I Hate compilation, so I guess we are even, haha!"
I found out about HYPNOSIA because of a review in Sounds Of Death magazine, the review was enough for me to order the demo "The Storms 1997". Why did you never accept the proposal from the label which in those days was lead by the people from Sounds Of Death? I believe that the proposal was to release your two demos on CD… anyway the label went nowhere…
"Dave of S.O.D. Mag was really supportive of the band in 1996-97 and was keen on releasing the demos as a full-length album. However, it was too few and short songs to have it released as a debut album. Also I didn't like the idea of putting out an album with the sound of the demo tapes. It had to be a proper debut album, if it was going to be released. It just stayed with a faxed recording contract proposal, nothing more. I think it was a good decision to wait with the debut album, our music started to develop rapidly in 1997, and the new songs were faster and more technically advanced. We were sent a contract, cover artwork and everything, everything seemed very serious from his side, and I am of course grateful he promoted HYPNOSIA so much in the States."
Speaking about "The Storms 1997", we know the professional tape was released with a black and white cover, but was there a version with a red cover previously?
"There were two different artworks used for the cover: one with a weird monster and one with a reaper. I think we might have printed 100 pro-covers with the monster on black and white, and probably 300 with the reaper on front. Something like that. There were also 25 or 50 done with the reaper on red background. We did photo copy a lot of the reaper b/w covers to keep costs down, so If you got a photo copied reaper cover and a black, blank tape, it's an original for sure."
The idea was to record 5 songs, but for different reasons just three songs were recorded. What happened with the other two songs? Were these songs included in "Violent Intensity" or "Extreme Hatred"?
"We wanted to release a new demo as quickly as possible, and all 5 songs were finished and arranged, but two of the songs just didn't sound right in the studio, something was just wrong with them, so we decided not to finish the recordings for those two songs. I think there might be a tape with drums and bass, and possibly some guitars somewhere in my attic. Those were never included on the albums, I guess I felt they didn't live up to my view on HYPNOSIA should sound."
In 1995 when you set up HYPNOSIA, Thrash Metal wasn't very popular, was this maybe the reason that you always had trouble to keep a stable line-up?
"I might have been one of the reasons, but I think that the main reason was our young age. We were in our early 20s and many of the members we went through during the years just couldn't put the time and effort in rehearsing, writing and put money into an underground Thrash Metal band. From my view there are very few persons involved in Metal who are really driven and want to put everything into a band, and thus forsake everything normal things, like a regular job, girlfriends etc. Most people just can't make that sacrifice, that's just the way it is. In some cases, regarding the line-up, I had to let certain people go because they were not up to the technical standards of the band."
Your influences were clear: the first album of KREATOR, the first SADUS and DARK ANGEL… which other bands were your main influences in those days?
"I guess it's pretty obvious what our influences were, to add to your list I'd say SLAYER 1983-88, SODOM 1984-89, SEPULTURA 1985-1991 and also INVOCATOR (demos and first LP). The funny thing is that those bands were my main influence, but I listened way more to Heavy Metal, and I still do. That is where I come from, the early 1980s Heavy Metal and bands like JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN and MOTÖRHEAD. Those bands really lit the spark for me! Somehow it seemed very difficult to play their songs compared to Thrash Metal, which is kind of more robot-like in musical structure. I was blown away by the first wave of Thrash Metal, and when I started playing guitar in 1986, I immediately started playing METALLICA, SLAYER and whatever I got my hands on."
KREATOR and SADUS have been active and recently DARK ANGEL has come back as well… Have you followed the evolution of these bands? What is your opinion about their actual musical moments?
"Yeah, I have followed those bands all their careers, and for me all bands have their ups and downs. Regarding the bands mentioned I only like KREATOR 1985-1990 and SADUS 1988-1990, DARK ANGEL, they were solid all their active time. About re-unions, some are more than welcome and others should stay dead and buried."
Coming back to HYPNOSIA, "The Storms 1997" was a demo which sold more than 500 copies. What did you feel in those days due to the incredible response in the worldwide underground? Do you think the "retro", "return" and "true" (I hate that word, but I didn't find any other) movements helped you in any way?
"We were overwhelmed that it sold so well during 1997 and beginning of 1998! It was reviewed in countless zines, and that helped, 'cause the reviews were really good in virtually all publications. The "scene" had started to look backwards already with the second wave of Black Metal, and many of those into those bands also liked old Thrash and Speed Metal, so we somehow appealed to people who missed Thrash Metal. As everybody knows, Thrash Metal was absolutely dead in 1995, and we unintentionally filled a void. Certain people took us for a retro Thrash band, but we were far from that actually. When the Thrash Metal scene died in the early 1990s I just couldn't accept how bad some bands became, who switched style of music, disbanded or made plain boring albums. The reason to start HYPNOSIA was to take the torch from the old bands, and carry it into the future."
Do you remember that in those days somebody in Norway wanted to take the phrase "Death Is Certain, Life Is Not" as his own words in a slogan and many believed that this current "Metal icon" was the author? What do you think about this?
"Yeah, I remember that I saw a Fenriz related album with that phrase, and it was a little unimaginative to just steal those words. I think there were more bands who used ancient slogans, like DARK FUNERAL stole "Only Death Is Real". It never really bothered me that the slogans and phrases were used. Somehow the old, legendary bands were forgotten, and I wanted bands like HELLHAMMER to be recognized anyway."
Tell us about the incredible response of "The Storms 1997" demo. Virtually it was reviewed and you were interviewed in all the important zines worldwide in those days. Do you have some special memories from any review or interview? What do you think about the printed zines nowadays?
"Well, I have discussed this matter in a few of the previous questions, but I think when Rogga of MERCILESS contacted us, it was BIG! Also to be featured in SLAYER Mag, getting mail from Stephan from THANATOS and stuff like that made me proud. "The Storms 1997" was aggressive and in-your-face and no bullshit, perhaps that is why it went down well in the underground at the time. I still buy printed zines, but it is way more seldom that I am really interested in the bands and what they have to say. Snakepit Mag is of course the best one these days!"
In those years Swedish bands such as MAZE OF TORMENT, SERPENT OBSCENE, REPUGNANT and KAAMOS arose. These bands had a incredible future and they were different from each other. Do you think that in those days there was a reborn of the Swedish scene?
"I knew all bands mentioned personally and they were all great. We were more or less the same age and had the same favourite bands, so there was definitely a bond of some sorts. I wouldn't speak of a scene, but we supported each other and traded stuff, and met at gigs around Sweden. I particularly like the "Curse Of Aeons" demo with KAAMOS, it is incredible! On par with the old legends from Sweden, the same timeless feeling and quality. It is a very dark sound they managed to create, TRUE darkness!"
The bands named above had a short existence, same as HYPNOSIA, what do you think was the reason?
"The fire burned fast for most of those bands. It was nothing like today when the networking (internet, access to rare / obscure bands, mobile phones, easier to record and release albums etc) is easier in every way. HYPNOSIA and other bands had to really struggle, and I really mean it! It was hard to generate interest, like the opportunity to tour, or get money to print shirts or whatever. We had to do everything ourselves."
When you were younger, you watched several bands in the "golden years" of the Swedish Death Metal live… Do you remember any special concert? Maybe any forgotten band which deserved better luck?
"I didn't see all of them, only the bands that played around my hometown. We didn't have money or driver's license to really travel to see bands, which is really bad, haha! I saw among others ENTOMBED, DISMEMBER, THERION, DISSECTION, FURBOWL, NECROPHOBIC, GRAVE, LUCIFERION, AT THE GATES, and local Death Metal bands of course."
Let's change to the "Violent Intensity" period where HYPNOSIA sounded more aggressive, your voice is more direct and violent… But it was a production (mini album) with many problems. Are you still dissatisfied with the sound?
"I think it was a disaster to record "Violent intensity"! We worked our asses off, but didn't get any help in the studio from the sound engineer. The mixing desk had channels broken, and it was stressful to work against the clock and the money we paid per hour. I am satisfied with the songs on the album, but not the sound. We had started, about a year earlier, to tune in regular E-tuning and my voice transformed to fit that more direct and aggressive sound. I didn't notice the change upon recording the vocals in the studio, then I heard it there and thought: "Yeah, this was how HYPNOSIA is supposed to sound", regarding the vocals at least."
Were you very pressured during the recordings? I mean, after the acknowledgement of the demos, there was a great deal of expectations.
"We didn't feel any pressure because our demos had been kind of successful, we knew the new, more technically advanced songs were the only way to go, forwards, not backwards! We had to switch guitar player, because the old one didn't keep up with the new songs and the speed that followed."
The original cover which should have had the "Violent Intensity" album was sold to another band… which band was that?
"Yeah, the cover depicted a battlefield with dead warriors on it, which suited the title better, but sadly it was sold to another band. Right now I don't remember the name of that band. We just had to pick another one to have the record out in time. The album got delayed more than 6 months anyway, so I guess we should have waited and chosen another, better cover artwork for "Violent Intensity"."
When "Violent Intensity" was released a new logo for HYPNOSIA was used… This was much better than the original, who did the design?
"It was my childhood friend who drew the logo, and when I saw it I knew it was the perfect logo to put on future albums! It screams out Thrash Metal! The only guide line I gave to him was: make it sharp and easy for Metalheads to paint on their leather jackets!"
"Violent Intensity" was very well received too, after this the contract with Hammerheart was signed. But the problems with the line-up and labels continued on… Don't you think it is a bit ironic? Did you maybe start to feel tired about this situation in those days?
"We were really happy to sign with Hammerheart, which we did in October 1999. They were a label on the rise at the time and everything went well with them through the recording and release of "Extreme Hatred". After that was released not much happened, and slowly it krept into my mind that I just put down so much time into the band and didn't get anything in return, not from the label or even my band members."
At that time Hammerheart Records was a great option. But don't you think that the label didn't make the best effort for HYPNOSIA? I mean, the album did get a great response but there wasn't a promotion tour.
"There were many interviews set up and the album was reviewed everywhere, and we were heading in the right direction. Somehow I felt the label didn't support us with a tour, and that is necessary for a band, to get recognized between albums."
"Extreme Hatred" is a very good classic Thrash / Death Metal album with personality. Why did you include songs like 'The Last Remains' and 'Operation Clean Sweep'? I mean, these songs already had been recorded previously with a very good sound for a demo… The album versions are good however, but wouldn't it have been better to include new songs on the album?
"The reason to include 2 older songs was that we didn't have more new material ready. I wrote all music and lyrics, and I just didn't have anymore ideas. I put emphasis on making the newly written songs as good as possible, and I succeeded in that in my opinion. Not one single riff is without purpose, or without thought. It was rehearsed and arranged exactly as it sounds on the album."
Didn't you ever think that the title "Extreme Hatred" was a bit too similar to "Extreme Aggression"?
"No, there are many titles that are the same, for example "Killers" used by IRON MAIDEN and KISS. I wanted a title that was simple, who would stick in your mind forever, and also capture the feelings expressed on the album."
What kind of things do you hate extremely from the current world?
"Just about everything: religion, work, fanatics of any kind, bullshit music business, trends etc. There's hatred enough for a life time. Just open a newspaper or browse the internet!"
The "Extreme Hatred" songs are fast but there are also some songs with an interesting melodic content. Was this spontaneous or did you feel the necessity to explore more variety in the new songs?
"I thought that we had to put some variety in the songs, but keeping it true to ourselves. I come from a Heavy Metal background and those bands all have a great sense for melody, which I wanted to incorporate into our songs. Also some sort of catchiness, or hooks if you like, some trademarks to remember our songs by, be it a chorus or a solo, or a riff. It was hard work and the title track wasn't fully arranged until a week before we entered the studio! I have many, many versions on tape, with different riffs and tempos on this song. I'm glad it worked out in the end, because that song is what most people associate with HYPNOSIA."
A lot of the "Extreme Hatred" lyrics deal with violence (actually, all HYPNOSIA songs)… In my opinion you're one of the last Thrash Metal bands which have approached this topic from a serious position. Do you think that the presence of mankind on earth must end? I say it because throughout history we have been killing each other all the time.
"I always thought we were a serious band, I wanted people to see us a worthy successor of the old, legendary bands. Of course we had fun in the rehearsal space, joking and stuff, but outwards we definitely were a serious band. Our music always was very aggressive and the lyrics just had to be as violent, to suit the music."
Another great success was the instrumental 'Gates Of Cirith Ungol', which has a similar darkness as 'The Call Of Kthulu' and great melodies. Do you think that this musical side of HYPNOSIA wasn't explored?
"It was my attempt at making a timeless instrumental classic, with a dark atmosphere and also include many melodies. 'Orion' and 'The Call Of Kthulu' were some of the inspirations for this particular song. Perhaps we would have had more melodic solos or harmony guitars in future songs, if we had continued?"
In those years the musical industry changed radically due to the Internet. Were you a little reluctant initially to create a webpage for HYPNOSIA? Did you see this phenomenon like another symbol that HYPNOSIA had arrived in too late?
"In 1999 I sensed that something bad was going to happen, as we approached the new millennium. By bad I mean that an era was going to an end, and that I wouldn't like to be a part of this new society. Just look at all the record stores! Where are they now? Why don't people pay for their records anymore? HYPNOSIA had a homepage in 1997 already, and I think it might have helped us a little. We did most correspondence through regular mail still in the early 2000s. I'm old fashioned about most things in my life, and especially when it comes to music. I still buy my records the way I did in the 1980s. Look at the cover and if it appeals to me I buy it and hopefully it's good. No downloading bullshit."
What happened with the 4 or 5 songs composed after "Extreme Hatred" and before the split up?
"I have some rough rehearsals with those songs. Very fast and aggressive stuff, that's for sure! I also had an intro ready for what would be the third album."
One of the things which motivated me to make this interview was the incredible "Horror Infernal" compilation, edited by I Hate Records, which features all HYPNOSIA material, except for "Extreme Hatred". Do you think that you finally found a label which makes its job with passion and in a professional way?
"Yeah, a lot of time and dedication went into the "Horror Infernal" compilation, I can tell you! That label only releases stuff that they stand behind 100%, which is rare today. I am certain I Hate would have been the perfect label, only they had existed in 1999! They do support their bands with all funds they can come up with. Of course it's on an underground level. I Hate recently released a vinyl version of this compilation, so go get it on black gold before it's too late!"
How was this edition done? I mean, who's idea was it? Was it easy to define the characteristics for the CD? Was it complicated to remaster the sound from the old demos, yet keeping their essence?
"The idea came from the owner of I Hate, Peter. I have known him for almost 15 years, and he already talked to me about his wish to do a compilation in 2004 or 2005. In 2011 I was painting a room in my house, and had to move a lot of stuff, so I came across all these old photos, so the time was right to start this project. Once I had got all material ready it took another year before we even started with the project. The layout was done in a few months and the mastering MARDUK bassist Devo took care of. He used the original DAT-tapes for the demos and the mini LP."
I believe that almost ten years ago your drummer Michael "Mike" Sjöstrand passed away… Did you keep in touch with him in those days? I guess that his absence is the main reason for the impossibility for a second chapter of HYPNOSIA?
"The main reason why we disbanded was lack of motivation. I only had contact with Mike sporadically after the demise of HYPNOSIA, and about a year later he passed away. He didn't write any material for the band, so I guess if a re-union would come to light another drummer would be able to take his place, if he was fast enough. However, HYPNOSIA is dead and buried a long time ago, and that band will never return in any form or shape, it belongs to the past."
Do you follow the current Thrash movement in Sweden? What is your opinion about TYRANEX?
"I only know ANTICHRIST, since they are from my home town. Good band, good guys! TYRANEX I haven't heard, or any other new bands in Sweden or internationally. Have I missed something?"
How do you see the HYPNOSIA's legacy today?
"I am very proud of the band and the songs, and it is cool to see that people still remember the band and come up to me at shows or festivals and talk about HYPNOSIA. The band ended more than 12 years ago, and it's a long fucking time! HYPNOSIA was done directly from the heart and I think that came across in the music we made. It was brutally honest and we forged our own path. In 1995 there were almost no Thrash bands left and we just stuck to our guns no matter what. We followed no trends, we took the torch of the old bands and carried it forwards, I don't see many bands doing that today!"
Well Cab, the bell tolls because the end is close, thank you for your answers, do you want to say anything else to end this interview?
"Thanx a lot for all interesting questions and for your undying support! Never Surrender!"
www.facebook.com/pages/hypnosia/204069166977
Jesus Claros


Houssam Alloum
Home: Gananoque, ON
Title: Joyce
Dimensions: 152.4 x 121.92 cm
Website: www.houssamalloum.com
When the challenges of a new language fail to communicate to the required depth, we rely on sensory perception to compensate in an attempt to understand each other. My recent arrival in Canada exposed me to new places, new faces and new colours. A desire to capture my past and these new experiences formed the basis of my new collection of art called "Reflections".
"Reflections" is an attempt to dive into and explore my sensory awareness that is a result of personal experiences and experiences of others shared with me in our desire to connect despite the barriers. Realism alone does not fulfill the artistic vision of my work. Through this collection I seek to embody the soul of the person hidden beneath the eyes and facial features.
"Joyce" is a portrait that mixes wisdom and spontaneity. This spontaneity is revealed in her smile and her experiences and memories in the curves and folds of the tinfoil crown. As you contemplate the work, details and depth are uncovered just as they are in our relationships with those around us.
Houssam Alloum was born in 1986 in a village in the mountains of Sweida, in southern Syria. He became well known at school for his interest in painting and sculpture and subsequently earned a B.A. in Fine Arts from Damascus University in 2011.
Due to tremendous unrest in Syria, Houssam fled to Jordan in 2013. There, he took part in an exhibition entitled "Eradicate Guns From Your Life", an exhibition that focused on the distressing situation in Syria. He also performed volunteer work and conducted art therapy workshops for Syrian refugee children who had sustained both physical and psychological trauma.
In 2014, he moved to Istanbul, Turkey where he took part in a monumental painting project. The painting blanketed 450 square metres, and was adorned with the names of the 12,490 Syrian children who were victims of the Syrian conflicts up to that point in time. In 2015, while exploring Expressionism and in reaction to the war, he painted a series of portraits that reflected his experiences and relationships. He also began to paint in the style of Realism and Hyper-realism to examine the lives and the emotional damage of the people of his homeland. His haunting, sorrowful portrait of a Syrian woman, entitled "The Syrian Lisa", through social media, has become one of the most famous symbols of the effects of the abuse occurring in the Syrian Revolution.
In September 2018, Houssam moved to Gananoque, Ontario, Canada with his wife and child, and brought along some 60 canvasses in various stages of completion. Houssam's work has been shown in Dubai, Germany, The Netherlands and Canada.
Education: Bachelor of Fine Arts from Damascus University, 2011.
Training, Workshops and Exhibitions (partial list)
2018- "Solo Exhibition", Heather Haynes Gallery, Canada
2017 -"Together", Unique Gallery, Istanbul, Turkey
2016 -"Living' Ambassador of U.S.", Ankara,Turkey
2016 -"Syria Our House", Globe Aroma Gallery, Bruxelles, Belgium
2016 -"Was Mache Ich Hier", Altefeuerwache Gallery, Köln, Germany
2016 -"Syria Our House", Asta Gallery, Dusseldorf, Germany
2016 -"How We Come Across", Karshi Sanat Gallery, Istanbul, Turkey
2016 -"Was Mache Ich Hier", Kulturbunker Gallery, Köln, Germany
2016 – Workshop "Mahabat ", Istanbul, Turkey
2016 -"Syria Our House", Artspace Flipside Gallery, Eindhoven, Netherlands


There are currently 23 reviews on Amazon with an average of ★★★★½.
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Demonstrates a degree of resilience, hope and humor that is amazing
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The entire tale is absorbing and is set forth in an intriguingly light 'up-beat' manner that glosses over the devastating effect that the sightless person must experience and avoids much of the 'downside' per se and the more obnoxious individuals who no doubt are encountered. Instead it focuses on the statement: "There are a lot of things you can do in a bad situation; try to choose something that doesn't make it worse." It concentrates on the tremendous strength, fortitude and humor exhibited by the affected individuals.
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There are equal parts wisdom, storytelling, humor and tragedy in these pages, and even non-disabled readers will be uplifted by the story. Mike's attitude towards his challenge is something that everyone should adopt. Whether or not you or someone you know suffers with a disability, Walking Out of the Dark will lift your spirits, make you laugh, and leave you with a new perspective on the indomitable human spirit by the final page.
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Facing life with declining sight, Mike has to re-evaluate his goals. He begins attending a school for blind adults. There he meets people like him and learns some sobering lessons about his future. But he also finds love, adventure, and hope.
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There are some great peripheral characters. Ones that capture your heart and tickle your funny bone. It's a nice reminder of the roller coaster of emotions that is life.
If you are looking for a book with emotional payouts and endearing wit, check this one out.
Note: I served as a proofreader for this book through Indie Books Gone Wild. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.
humorous dialogue in this lovely story about brotherhood and hope, bravery and ordinary people
By jeff radke on February 13, 2016
I enjoyed the humorous dialogue in this lovely story about brotherhood and hope, bravery and ordinary people getting through those bad things in life, and from an outsider their actions can appear so extraordinary. The book is an easy read. It's story is meaningful. There is an underlying truth to all of it. What better thing is there to read on a cold February day?
"[This brave man's] adventures and jokes help many people work through bad luck, not just blind folks," it says. I can easily see that the storyteller is not only trying to help families who are dealing with blindness. He is offering an outlook on life that turns tragedy on its head and might just as well be applied to the everyday hardships we often experience in life.
But still, imagine skiing blind! Cooking while blind! Meeting a girl when you are blind. What a story this is!
A Fun, Interesting and Inspiring Book!
By poohbear on May 16, 2016
I very much enjoyed reading this book and found myself more engrossed the further I got into it. The final chapter bringing clarity to me as the reader in the way the author wrapped it all up interestingly at the end.
In addition to the main character, Mike, I found each and every one after him memorable; even after I finished reading the book – they simply stayed with me.
The book, at first glance, may appear to be depressing; as it is about someone losing their sight and living with others in similar circumstances – IT IS NOT! I found it fun, interesting and inspiring!
I have and will continue to recommend this book to others!
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Research Methods in Global Health
dr. E.V. Syurina MSc
Werkcollege, Deeltoets extra zaalcapaciteit, Hoorcollege, Werkgroep, Computerpracticum
This is an exclusive course offered only for the first year students of
research masters Global Health.
1.Learning objectives for the theoretical component (as covered through
lectures and master classes):
At the end of the course, students are able to:
- describe, from a historical perspective, the increasing complexity of
global health problems in high- and low-income countries;
- describe the relationships between diverse global health problems
(well-structured versus complex problems);
- understand the main causes of the burden of disease in high- and
low-income countries;
- describe border-crossing health problems from the perspective of
different disciplines (biomedical sciences, epidemiology, health
sciences, health economics, anthropology);
- understand the indicators and describe the main issues in the field of
maternal health (including HIV mother-to-child transmission and
peri-natal depression);
- describe the social, economic and cultural context of non-communicable
diseases;
- recognize the global burden of mental health and describe the main
issues in this field.
2.Learning objectives for the research component (as covered through
lectures, workshops and assignment):
- describe the advantages and limitations of various research approaches
(mono-, multi-, and inter- and trans-disciplinary);
- describe theory creation in transdisciplinary research (epistemology
and methodology including criteria for scientific quality);
- describe basic methods and techniques (epidemiology, statistics,
scoping literature review, observation, interviews,
surveys/questionnaires) and methods (quantitative, qualitative,
mixed-methods) for analyzing complex health problems;
- design an interdisciplinary needs assessments in relation to a global
health problem;
- prove good academic writing skills by writing a scientific report;
- communicate a scientific message to an academic audience;
- work as a valued team member in a project team;
- provide and receive feedback from peers and supervisors.
This course highlights the increasing complexity of health problems in a
global context and builds the case for multi-, inter- and
transdisciplinary research approach as a way to offer valuable insights
into complex health problems and to create a broad acceptance of
solutions among stakeholders.
The course consists of complementary theoretical and research
components.
The theoretical component of the course consists of lectures and master
classes. During the lectures, students becomes acquainted with current
topics in global health, placed in a historical perspective. During the
master classes,several fields of global health (including mental health,
cross-cultural competencies and non-communicable diseases)
are used to illustrate the complexity of disease burden in a global
context and to build the case for multi/inter- and transdisciplinary
analysis of complex problems. Each master class consists of two
sessions. The first session is organized as a lecture, in which the
topic is approached from inter- and transdisciplinary perspectives. The
second session is organized as a supervised critical reading workgroup,
in which students discuss the most recent developments, as published in
the literature, and thus become familiar with the different paradigms
and models used in maternal health and in mental health.
The research component of the course consists of lectures, workshops and
an assignment. During the lectures and workshops, students acquire basic
knowledge and skills on research design, different research paradigms,
quantitative and qualitative research methods and the combination
thereof (i.e., mixed-methods). During the assignment, students design a
needs assessment for exploring the problems associated with one of the
two topics: the
prevention of HIV mother-to-child transmission in a specific context OR
the prevention of peri-natal depression in mothers.
The needs assessment is based on literature review and is conducted in
small groups. Each group receives feedback on different versions of
their draft reports during the supervised workgroups, and provide
feedback to another group in one peer review round.
Lectures and workshops (~50 hrs)
Work groups (assignment) (~60 hrs)
Self-study (~50 hrs)
Written report (30%), oral presentation (20%) and written exam (50%),
functioning within a group (pass/fail)
A grade of 5.5 or higher is required for each of these assessments
Vereiste voorkennis
basic epidemiology
M. Merson et al. Global Health. 3rd edition (2012)
Other resources (as announced on Canvas)
first year students in the research master global health (exclusively
for the students of the Masters, not open for other students)
Lecturers: Prof. dr. Jacqueline Broerse, Prof. dr. Paul Klatser, Prof.
dr. Frank Cobelens, Dr. Elena Syurina, dr. Barbara Regeer, dr. Guus ten
Asbroek, dr. Dirk Essink,


Colorado State University Partnership Award
Awards Available: 1
Award Deadline: Feb 1, 2023
A total of $12,500 ($2,500 per year for up to 5 years) will be awarded to partnership scholars who meet the selection and renewal criteria. Students may receive this award for up to a total of ten (10) semesters, or until their degree is complete, whichever comes first.
A) Students must meet ONE of the following criteria:
1) Participated in one of the CSU Partnership Programs
2) Graduated from an Alliance High School (see details under Alliance High School Partnership)
3) Recipient of a Denver Scholarship Foundation scholarship
4) Graduate from Rangeview High School AND participated in the College Track Colorado program
5) Graduated from KIPP Denver Collegiate High School
B) Be admitted to full-time degree seeking program on Colorado State University's main campus for the fall term. CSU Online students are not eligible and awards are not made to students starting in the Spring nor Summer terms.
C) Submit a complete application for admission by the priority date of February 1. Admitted students (who met the February 1 application date) can submit new test scores and transcripts until March 1 to strengthen their application for admission, however funding may be limited after February 1.
Students who have been involved with more than one organization but will receive only one Partnership Award.
Eligible students, who are offered an award, need to accept their award in the Financial Aid section of RAMweb.


Persian Primetime lineup 11/12
Today's Woman will discuss the recent release of women's rights activist Esha Momeni with in-studio guest Ms. Fariba Davoudi Mohajer, journalist and activist based near Washington. The show will also include an update on the One Million Signature Campaign.
News and Views reports on the Iran's test of a medium range missile near the Iran Iraq border and will have domestic and international reaction. We'll also have a preview of tomorrow's P5+1 meeting in Paris tomorrow regarding Iran's nuclear program, and part three of NaV's series on the State Department's Digital Outreach team.
From Insider Iran we have an interview with an editor from the popular moderate weekly, Shahrvand Emrouz The government has "officially" banned the most, which has been critical of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
Roundtable features its audience participation program - the discussion will focus on President-Elect Obama's cabinet, and how the transition is proceeding.
Late Edition features an update on the transition to the Obama administration. There's also coverage of the student movement in Iran, a performance in Germany of the band "The Killers," a profile of a classic car collector, and a preview of the new film "Milk."
Newstalk features political analysts Alireza Nourizadeh from London and Moshen Sazegara, in the DC studio to discuss news of the week.


Jennifer Lawrence Puked at Oscars After Party & Miley Cyrus Couldn't Handle It
By Lia Beck
Michael Buckner/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images
Those of us who have never actually attended the Oscars (which I'm assuming is 99.99 percent of people reading this), don't really know how things go down after the ceremony is over, but now we've got some inside information courtesy of a two-time Oscar winner herself. According to Page Six, Jennifer Lawrence puked at an Oscars after party in front of Miley Cyrus. Lawrence is said to have spoken about the incident while recording an episode of Late Night with Seth Meyers. An audience member who spoke with Us Weekly explained, "Jen said she was so drunk, she puked on the stairs at Madonna's after-party, and Miley walked by and said something like, 'Get it together, girl!'"
The Oscars red carpet coverage shows glammed up celebrities looking dignified and the ceremony is always full of tears and dreams finally achieved, so this gives us a look at what goes on afterward and it's just as I suspected. They all just go get drunk and, if I had to guess, I'd say the bigger the achievement, the harder you party. Presenter? Two drinks max before heading home. Nominee? Stay out until four in the morning. Oscar winner? Get so hammered even Miley Cyrus has to give you advice.
According to Us Weekly, Lawrence's episode of Late Night will air May 21. Until that happens, it's unclear exactly what Lawrence said of the incident. There's still a chance this was exaggerated by some rando who thought Cyrus being a voice of reason was funny.
On the other hand, both Lawrence and Cyrus really did attend Madonna's after party. E! News reported that Cyrus spent the night dancing with Madonna while Lawrence, "was palling around with some girlfriends" which is exactly what you would do if you just vommed on the stairs of Madonna's party and got a talking to from Miley Cyrus. The "palling" was probably the friends standing around and wondering if they should leave or blame the vomit on Bradley Cooper. Reportedly, this party included McDonald's breakfast foods which is a very solid reason to stay if you're drunk.
To summarize: Cyrus and Lawrence confirmed to be at the same party, the party has Egg McMuffins, and Lawrence had just won her second Oscar. Yeah, I'd say there's a good chance they shared a moment on some puke covered stairs.


Ghana launches new rice brand to meet local demand
GHANA – A local rice processing company has formally introduced locally processed and packaged rice, boosting domestic rice production and processing in the country and reduce imports.
Royal Farmers Rice is a premium parboiled long grain rice, which is locally produced to meet the rising demand for the produce in Ghana and the surrounding countries.
It is produced Avnash Rice Mill, located at Nyankpala in the Tolon District of the Northern Region of the country.
The company buys quality rice from local farmers for processing at its newly constructed mill.
The launch of the mill was graced by the country's President Nana Akufo-Addo, who described the operations of Avnash Rice Mill as a good signal that would help to attract more investments into the country.
He urged rice farmers to increase rice production, as there was a ready market for their produce.
Mr Jai Mirchandani, Director of Avnash Rice Mill, said the processing plant, a state of the art facility with the capacity to processing 500 metric tonnes of paddy rice per day, was capable of feeding the entire country with the highest quality of rice.
He estimates that Tthis year, the new mill will touch the livelihoods of 32,000 farmers, plus that of about 200,000 transporters, aggregators, mechanised service suppliers, inputs providers, and their families.
He said the company had committed in its five-year plan to support and create at least one million jobs (direct and indirect) by 2022.
The Minister for Food and Agriculture, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, disclosed during the opening ceremony that according to the 2016 figures of his ministry, US$1.1 billion worth of rice was imported into the country.
He said that the recently launced Planting for Food and Jobs programme would help rice farmers to increase their production to feed the Avnash Rice Mill, which was currently underperforming because rice produced locally was not enough to meet its capacity.
Avnash Rice Mill expects to receive increased rice production by farmers from the locality, including Abanga Farms, a large scale rice producer, which has cultivated 1,200-acre rice farm in the Northern Region to help meet its demand.
Mr Thomas Abanga, Director of Abanga Farms said he had earmarked large acreages for rice cultivation next year to ensure regular high tonnage supply of high quality paddy rice to the rice processing sector to minimise the high volume of rice imported.
Olam introduces its premium Mama Gold rice brand in Ghana
GHANA - The Ghanaian subsidiary of Olam International has launched the first 'Made in Ghana'…
Ghana to add rice on local commodity exchange in efforts towards becoming self sufficient
GHANA - The Ghana Commodity Exchange (GCX) is set to list rice to its trading…
Tanzania suspends rice importation on increased local production
TANZANIA - The government of Tanzania has suspended rice importation into the country alleging that…
Tags: Ghana, Investments, Rice
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Efua says:
Grow Africa. Eat Africa.
#LocalRicAndWheat


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Award for UKE's cancer centre
German Cancer Aid backs Hubertus Wald Tumour Centre with 1.5 million euro. Honoured as only oncological centre of excellence in northern Germany
The German Cancer Aid (Deutsche Krebshilfe) has again named the Hubertus Wald Tumour Centre – Universitäres Cancer Center Hamburg (UCCH) an oncological centre of excellence, following a review by international experts. The honour comes with funds of EUR 1.5 million over the next two years. Another EUR 1.5 million will be provided in the event of another good intermediary review. The UCCH combines all the hospitals and institutions within UKE that are involved in diagnosis, therapy and research. It also has many partners who work in care and science across the Hamburg Metropolitan Region.
Top position in north Germany
Prof. Dr. Burkhard Göke, Medical Director and Chairman of Executive Board of UKE, said: "We are really delighted to have again been honoured by the German Cancer Aid as the only north German oncological centre of excellence. That acknowledges our intense efforts to strengthen cancer research within UKE and in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and is guided directly by the patients' needs."
The UCCH includes 40 UKE facilities, 11 clinics and 15 co-operative partners from the Hamburg Metropolitan Region. Together, they aim to provide extensive, holistic treatment using the latest medical techniques. UCCH also researches and develops new therapeutic procedures.
First honoured in 2009
Prof. Dr. Carsten Bokemeyer, spokesman for UCCH and Medical Director of II. Department of Haematology and Oncology, and one of the main figures behind UKE's progress towards a centre of excellence, said: "That is great news for cancer medicine in Hamburg and for our patients. We would like to thank the (German) Cancer Aid for their commitment. The agenda at the top oncological centres has left its mark on oncological care in Germany and brought it forward."
The UCCH was first honoured as a top oncological centre in 2009 and again in 2013. So far, the German Cancer Aid has honoured 13 centres across Germany. During a review in April 2016, cancer specialists at UKE again convinced international experts of UCCH's power of innovation.
Central point of contact for cancer patients
The German Cancer Aid aims to fundamentally improve the care of cancer sufferers across Germany. The selection as a top oncological centre depends among others on criteria such as the existence of an interdisciplinary, central point of contact for all cancer patients, whether patients take part in innovative clinical trials and whether interdisciplinary conferences are held.
Sources and further information:
www.uke.de
north germany oncology award uke cancer centre
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A NYers guide to staying fly and warm during the winter season
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I wear America around my neck but, it's just a scarf.
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Finally free. Last Perm, I don't remember, but it's been a minute
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Two games to reach the final in the best condition
I know you have a bad taste right now, after the defeat against Tottenham. Same as we do. But we must remember that we have a few exciting days ahead, and I hope that at the end of the season we can say that, overall, it's been a good season for us.
This weekend we visited a stadium that was saying goodbye to football. It was the last Premier League game at White Hart Lane. Obviously it would've been much better to win and be able to say that you were the last team who won there, but we couldn't. They are always a tough and difficult opponent, and they also wanted to win the last home game of the season, of course. At least it's been a privilege to have played this farewell match, and I'm happy that I felt good physically in another demanding game after my recovery.
Now it's time to play two good games to close the Premiership and reach the Europa League final in the best shape that we can. It's true that the calendar has been hectic over the last two months, but we have to push hard now to try to win the three remaining games. We really want to.
Also, I think it's fair to congratulate Chelsea for winning the Premiership. They've been the most consistent team in the League and thanks to that they were able to celebrate the title last Friday after defeating West Brom, so my sincere congrats to them.
I hope we can enjoy something similar after the final in Stockholm. The semis against Celta were tough. We suffered until the last minute, but at the end we made it to the big final. However, as I said after the game, I think they should be very proud of what they did.
In Spain we don't know yet which team will win la Liga, since Real Madrid and Barcelona got the three points, so everything depends on the games this week. On the other end of the table, same as in England, we already know the teams that will be relegated: Osasuna, Granada and also Sporting, because they lost all their chances for the last week due to the draws of Leganes and Deportivo. Encouragement to all of them.
Aside from football, I'd like to congratulate Rafa Nadal for his fifth title in Madrid. It's another Master 1000 to add to his record and, more importantly, I'd like to point out his great competitiveness and his ability to fight for each and every ball in every game that he plays. He's an example in passion and perseverance, and he never gives up. A unique tennis player and a unique person.
Have a nice week. I hope we can enjoy and win both of our games against Southampton and Crystal Palace.
A painful end to a disappointing season 13 May 2019
You deserve better 6 May 2019
A point that does little 29 April 2019
Honouring the shirt 22 April 2019
You have to believe 15 April 2019
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"Whitney," the second feature-length Whitney Houston documentary in 10 months, was produced with cooperation from Houston's estate, providing greater access to those closest to her. Director Kevin Macdonald uses archival material and interviews to create an intimate portrait of the late music superstar. Not only does the documentary cover the professional life of Houston, it devotes time to Houston's relationship with her daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, who died three years after her mother. "Whitney" premieres in theaters today, July 6.... [Read Full Story]
'House of Cards' Season 6 Teaser Celebrates Robin Wright's "Independence" From Kevin Spacey
Netflix released a new House of Cards season 6 teaser to coincide with July 4, building up hype for a Claire Underwood-centric season and made a nod to Kevin Spacey's firing. In the clip, it states that Claire Underwood has a special Fourth of July message to the country: "Happy Independence Day. To me." The brief teaser, which depicts Claire proudly sitting atop a marble throne then fades to black with the text #MyTurn appearing on the screen. Frank (Spacey's character), was the protagonist of the series for five seasons but resigned from the presidency at the end of season 5, allowing Claire to take command. In the final moments of season 5, Claire turned to the camera to break the fourth wall for the first time in the series. "My turn," Claire declared. House of Cards season 6 will feature Michael Kelly, Jayne Atkinson, Patricia Clarkson, Constance Zimmer, Derek Cecil, Campbell Scott and Boris McGiver, all of whom appeared in previous seasons of the show. Newcomers to the cast include Diane Lane, Greg Kinnear and Cody Fern.... [Read Full Story]
Kevin Spacey Accused Of Sexual Assault By 3 More Men
Three more men have come forward to accuse actor Kevin Spacey of sexual assault. The incidents allegedly took place in England dating back to the mid-1990s. One of the men told police that Spacey assaulted him in Westminster in 1996. Another alleges that Spacey assaulted him in 2008 in the London borough of Lambeth, which is near the Old Vic Theatre where the actor was an artistic director at the time. The third man says that Spacey assaulted him in Gloucester in 2013. All three men reported their alleged assaults to police in April and February. The cases are reportedly being investigated by the Child Abuse and Sexual Offences Command. London police confirmed in January that the former "House of Cards" actor was being investigated after three sexual assault accusations. These new allegations bring the total to six. Last year, actor Anthony Rapp accused Spacey of sexually harassing him in 1986 when he was 14 and Spacey was 26. Spacey did not deny that the incident took place and publicly declared he is gay for the first time in a statement, and in November, a spokesperson for Spacey said the actor "is taking the time necessary to seek evaluation and treatment" and "no other information is available at this time."... [Read Full Story]
Three Charged In Kidnapping Of 'Halloween' Actress Daisy McCrackin
Three people have been indicted for allegedly kidnapping actress Daisy McCrackin and actor Joseph Capone. The Halloween: Resurrection star and Capone were allegedly abducted at her home in May 2017 by Keith Stewart and Johntae Jones, who are also accused of pistol-whipping Joseph and forcing both of them into a car. During the alleged kidnapping, Capone was reportedly assaulted. McCrackin was allegedly taken to two Bank of America branches by Jones and Amber Neal and forced to withdrawal $100 and write a cheque for $10,000. The suspects also allegedly stole McCrackin's 2011 Lexus before they took her home. On Monday, Neal was arrested and is being held on $1 million bail. Jones and Stewart have also been detained and are being held on $3 million and $2 million bail, respectively.... [Read Full Story]
Harvey Weinstein Faces Three New Sexual Misconduct Charges
Harvey Weinstein was charged with additional crimes on Monday in New York, related to alleged sexual misconduct. Weinstein, 66, was arrested in New York and first appeared in court in May in connection with accusations of rape from two women. At a further court appearance in June, Weinstein pleaded not guilty. On Monday, the Manhattan district attorney, Cyrus Vance Jr, charged the former head of the Weinstein Company film empire with an additional count of criminal sexual act in the first degree, for an alleged forcible sexual act against a third woman in 2006, as well as two counts of predatory sexual assault. Predatory sexual assault carries a minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. The new charges were on top of those contained in the previous indictment of charges of rape in the first and third degrees, as well as criminal sexual act in the first degree, for alleged forcible sexual acts against two women in 2013 and 2004... [Read Full Story]
'Keep Families Together' March Draws Celebrities Nationwide
At more than 600 locations, hundreds of thousands of people turned out across the U.S. Saturday to rally for immigrant families to demand that the government reunite kids separated from their parents at the border. Celebrities were among the masses at "Keep Families Together" marches in NYC, Washington D.C. and L.A, including Kerry Washington, Amy Schumer, Padma Lakshmi, Lin-Manuel Miranda, America Ferrera and Lea Thompson. John Legend and Chrissy Teigen were in attendance in L.A., and the singer gave a short speech about not giving up the fight for families before debuting a new song.... [Read Full Story]
Cast Of "Breaking Bad" To Reunite At San Diego Comic-Con For Show's 10th Anniversary
June 29, 2018	Entertainment Daypop
The cast of AMC's hit series "Breaking Bad" will return to the San Diego Convention Center this year for a 10th-anniversary reunion. Series stars Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul are set to return with the show's A-star lineup, including Dean Norris, Anna Gunn, Bob Odenkirk, Giancarlo Esposito, Betsy Brandt, Jonathan Banks, and RJ Mitte. Series creator Vince Gilligan will also be in town for the Q&A panel. The panel also joins AMC's "Better Call Saul," the "Breaking Bad" spin-off following Odenkirk's character, for a panel scheduled for an hour prior. Fans recall the series follows New Mexico chemistry teacher Walter White's (Cranston) fall into the drug trade, as he tries to secure a financial future for his family after a cancer diagnosis. In addition to the reunion, an exclusive vinyl LP with score highlights from series composer Dave Porter will also be released at Comic-Con. The last time Comic-Con fans saw "Breaking Bad" at Comic-Con was in 2013, when the series' final season aired. ... [Read Full Story]
Tim Allen Reveals 'Last Man Standing' Season 7 Premiere Date On Fox
On Thursday, Tim Allen shared on Twitter that "Last Man Standing" officially has a premiere date. "Mark your calendar for Sept. 28th! @LastManStanding #LastManStanding," he captioned a picture of himself holding actress Nancy Travis, who plays his wife on the show. Last month, it was announced the series was picked up by Fox for Season 7 after ABC canceled the popular show. "When I heard the offer to create more episodes of 'Last Man Standing,' I did a fist pump so hard I threw my back out," he admitted. "It's the fans! I could not be more grateful for the fans who wrote petitions and kept up the passion and incredible support for the show." Along with Allen and Travis, the show's original cast, Jonathan Adams, Amanda Fuller, Christoph Sanders and Jordan Masterson, will also return. The show is expected to air at 8 p.m. when it finally returns after more than a year off the air.... [Read Full Story]
'Flip or Flop' Star Christina El Moussa Lands New HGTV Solo Series
Flip or Flop star Christina El Moussa revealed on Wednesday that she will star in a new HGTV series. The 34-year-old television personality said on Instagram that she's "so excited" to star in her own new show, Christina on the Coast. "I'm so excited to announce my new series on HGTV called Christina on the Coast, which will debut in early 2019!" she wrote. "I will be helping homeowners redesign their outdated properties into beautiful spaces! #ChristinaOnTheCoast #HGTV." HGTV confirmed the news in a press release. The network said Christina on the Coast will consist of eight episodes and follow El Moussa as she expands her design business in Southern California. El Moussa split from husband and Flip or Flop co-star Tarek El Moussa in December 2016 after seven years of marriage. The pair remained co-stars for the new season of their show that debuted this past May. Tarek El Moussa is also in talks for a new HGTV series.... [Read Full Story]
Joe Jackson, Patriarch Of Musical Jackson Family, Dies At 89
Joseph "Joe" Jackson, the patriarch who launched the musical Jackson family dynasty, died Wednesday at a Las Vegas hospital. He was 89. Jackson was the father of and at times manager to pop stars Michael and Janet Jackson, along with the sibling singing group, The Jackson 5. No cause of death has been released, but Jackson had reportedly been in ill health. Jackson married his wife, Katherine, in 1949. They moved into into a home on Jackson Street in Gary, Indiana, the following year, where they welcomed their first of 10 children, Maureen "Rebbie" Jackson.Rebbie was followed by Sigmund "Jackie" Jackson in 1951, Toriano "Tito" Jackson in 1953, Jermaine Jackson in 1954, La Toya Jackson in 1956, Marlon Jackson in 1957, Michael Jackson in 1958, Steven Randall "Randy" Jackson in 1961 and Janet Jackson in 1966.... [Read Full Story]
Oscars Awards Aims To Boost Diversity With 928 New Member Invitations
The group behind the prestigious Oscars film awards has invited 928 artists and executives to join the Academy Awards body – almost half of whom are women. Of those invited by the US Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, just over a third are from minorities. The move is part of a plan to double the number of women and ethnic minorities in the Academy by 2020. Women on the list include Jada Pinkett Smith, Amy Schumer, Ann Dowd, Christine Baranski, Tiffany Haddish and Sarah Silverman. Listed notable male stars include African-American comedian Dave Chappelle, actor Daniel Kaluuya, who was nominated for an Oscar for his performance in Get Out, and French-American actor Timothée Chalamet, who starred in the film Call Me By Your Name.... [Read Full Story]
Actor Terry Crews Brings His Fights Against Sexual Assault To Capitol Hill
Actor Terry Crews recounted his story of sexual assault, as he appeared before a Senate committee hearing to advocate for the "Sexual Assault Survivors' Bill of Rights." Crews told lawmakers on Tuesday that even as a former NFL linebacker and "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" star, "I sit here as an example" of survivors. Crews said, "This happened to me, too." The "Survivors' Bill of Rights" would create special protections for sexual assault survivors, including not charging survivors for an examination, preserving rape kits for 20 years or the maximum applicable statute of limitations, and providing survivors with written notification before a rape kit is disposed of. Crews told senators of his assailant that "the assault lasted only minutes, but what he was effectively telling me while he held my genitals in his hand was that he held the power. That he was in control." Crews says the assault happened during a 2016 party he attended with his wife. "I was sexually assaulted by a successful Hollywood agent," he said candidly. He previously has identified the perpetrator as Adam Venit, who at the time headed the motion picture department at William Morris Endeavor.... [Read Full Story]
Roseanne Barr Breaks Down In First Interview Since Scandal
In an emotional interview, Roseanne Barr said she definitely feels remorse for the racist tweet that prompted ABC to cancel the revival of "Roseanne." Barr recorded a podcast interview with her longtime friend, Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, who on Sunday published an edited transcript and recording of the conversation. In the interview, Barr claims she "never would have wittingly called any black person a monkey. What can I do now except say of course, I'm not a racist, I'm an idiot. Barr spoke tearfully for much of the interview, her first since the cancellation of "Roseanne." Barr said of her tweet that she "didn't mean what they think I meant. But I have to face that it hurt people. When you hurt people even unwillingly there's no excuse. I don't want to run off and blather on with excuses. But I apologize to anyone who thought, or felt offended and who thought that I meant something that I, in fact, did not mean. It was my own ignorance, and there's no excuse for that ignorance."... [Read Full Story]
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