Monday, March 18, 2024

Consumer Critique - Otomatone

 As a musician (with a musical family), I love trying out new musical instruments. I've seen ads for an Otomatone before, and videos, and they always look like such happy instruments, so I was thrilled to have the chance to try one out for myself.

One tricky thing is that there aren't really keys - it's played by sliding your finger up and down, so it does take some practice if you want to actually play melodies. My piano students have loved messing around with it at the end of their lessons too! It's easy to make a happy-sounding melody, and it's really a cute, easy instrument. (And if you're someone who really needs to play certain pitches, it's easy to mark pitches on the side to make it more accurate).

Otomatones actually come in different sizes and editions - one has pre-set melodies that make it easy for anyone to play a melody and get used to the idea of rhythm. They even have a Kirby version!

Available on Hamee.com and Amazon

Book Nook - New Spring Books from Zondervan Publishing

Here are some new releases from Zondervan Publishing - some of them Easter themed, and others that are more general books. I had a chance to see copies of the first four, which are great books to use for kids as nighttime devotions or just uplifting books to read anytime!

'Twas the Season of Lent: Devotions and Stories for the Lenten and Easter Seasons by Glenys Nellist

'Twas the Season of Lent is a 40-day devotional and storybook that explores the life, words, and works of Jesus and encourages families to draw closer to God during the Lenten Season. From beloved author Glenys Nellist, this book focused on Jesus's mission to the least, the lost, and the lonely, with each story and accompanying prayer prompt encouraging children to try to be more like Jesus and to do what God calls them to.

Easter Love Letters from God Updated Edition: Bible Stories by Glenys Nellist

Are you looking for a way to teach your child about Holy Week and Easter? What if your child could also read a personal letter from God to make the lessons come alive? Easter Love Letters from God: Updated Edition, contains seven beautifully illustrated Bible stories, each accompanied by a special Bible verse and an encouraging letter to your child.

Strong: Psalm 1 by Sally Lloyd-Jones

Inspired by Psalm 1, Strong’s lyrical text reminds little ones that God loves them and gives them strength. From Sally Lloyd-Jones, the author of the bestselling The Jesus Storybook Bible, and award-winning illustrator Jago, this uplifting board book encourages little ones to find strength in God’s great love for them.

This Special Blessing for You by Eric & Meredith Schrotenboer

This Special Blessing for You uses words and phrases that help children better understand what God wants to communicate to them. Each promise and declaration is based on the Aaronic Blessing found in Numbers 6:23–27: “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”

Fiona and the Easter Egg Hunt by Richard Cowdrey

Spring has sprung, and new adorable babies are being born all over the zoo! Fiona and her friend Rico the porcupine decide to have an Easter egg hunt for the animals. But when one of Mrs. Swan’s eggs gets accidentally mixed in with the Easter eggs in Fiona’s basket, will Fiona and her friends find the egg before it hatches?

Kiki Finds Her Voice: Be True to You and Embrace Your God-Given Gifts by Kierra Sheard-Kelly

When the school talent show creates an issue between her and her friends, little Kiki learns what it means to follow your heart and be a leader. Based on a true story from the life of Grammy-nominated singer and actress Kierra Sheard-Kelly, this inspiring picture book helps kids discover how to best use their God-given gifts and what it means to be true to yourself even when it’s not the popular thing to do.

Parenting Pointers - Parenting and Social Media Study

 Both parents and kids alike are spending a TON of time scrolling through their social media feed. But what's something surprising? Many parents are using their time online to learn about how to be even more wonderful, dedicated parents than they already are. 

Preply (a language learning app) surveyed 1,000 Americans on their experiences and preferences with learning on social media platforms. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Americans spend over 5 hours per week learning on social media. 

  • The top social media platforms used for learning: 1. Reddit 2. Tiktok 3. Facebook. 
  • The most popular topics Americans learn about on social: 1. Health and wellness 2. Cooking and baking 3. Technology. 
    • Parenting as a whole is the #13 most popular topic to learn about online.
  • More than half (58%) believe that social media does more good than harm. 
  • 75% of parents are learning about child development on social media. 
    • 68% are learning about child behavior management on social media.

Take a look at the full report 

Book Nook - Promposal

 Promposal, the exciting debut novel by author R. H. Bird, combines timeless teenage angst with the eternal drama surrounding senior prom, and adds a ticking clock to the mix to create a fast-paced and relatable story of high school romance, regret, and redemption.  In morning detention, high school wrestling star, Luca Esposito is horrified to discover that his ex-girlfriend, Piper Kraft, is about to voluntarily relinquish her chance of attending John Marshall High School’s senior prom of 1990 solely because he’s an idiot.  A big idiot.  Huge idiot.  But self-berating can wait until later, because he only has six class periods to fix things and give Piper the senior prom of her dreams.  Sounds simple, but to achieve his goal, Luca must navigate through a fight during lunch with the school’s star quarterback, a trip to the principal’s office, an attempted apology (his!) that spectacularly backfires, and find his ex-girlfriend that’s better at avoiding him than Ferris Bueller is at avoiding Principal Rooney; not to mention getting egged by ski mask-wearing jerks on the way to prom, and a ride-or-die brawl between the wrestlers and football players in the parking lot at prom.  Yeah, Luca is having one of those days for sure, but hopefully a day he’ll always remember – if he can just survive it.  The fast pace, fully developed characters, and genuine emotions presented makes Promposal one of the most exciting and satisfying YA novels of the year.

R.H. Bird grew up in New York, worked on Wall Street and retired early as a stockbroker. He published and sold a financial textbook directly to brokerage firms before writing YA fiction. He lives in Las Vegas with his wife and family.

Amazing Art - Goodbye Nubia at Art Paris


Nil Gallery is delighted to present "Goodbye Nubia,” a solo exhibition by Fathi Hassan, whose  talent earned him the prestigious title of being the first African artist ever selected for the Venice Biennale. With his esteemed presence in the international art scene, Hassan mesmerizes audiences and collectors worldwide. The exhibition at Art Paris revolves around the theme of "Aqua" – the essential life force that courses through the world's rivers and seas.

Drawing inspiration from his childhood along the Nile in Nubia, Hassan's latest series of artworks unveils a rich tapestry of cultural identity, blending elements of abstract calligraphy with depictions of tall palm trees, animals, and enigmatic faces. Through his masterful exploration of graphic symbolism and oral storytelling, Hassan challenges conventional notions of language and reality, transcending temporal boundaries and inviting introspection into the complexities of human existence.

Through collaborations with esteemed institutions and galleries worldwide, including the Victoria and Albert Museum and the British Museum in London, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art in Washington DC, and Farjam Collections in Dubai, Hassan's work continues to captivate audiences and spark meaningful dialogue within the contemporary art scene .

"Goodbye Nubia" serves as a profound reflection on the enduring impact of the Aswan Dam's construction, highlighting the identity struggles of the Nubian community. Featuring newly conceived works with a chromatic thread of electric blue reminiscent of the Nile, Hassan's exhibition offers a subtle yet powerful commentary on the ambivalence of water as both a source of life and a symbol of displacement and invasion.

"This exhibition goes beyond mere aesthetics; it offers a deep exploration of personal and collective identity," says Hugo Zeytoun, Founder & Director of Nil Gallery. "Through Hassan's thematic exploration of water, visitors to Art Paris will embark on a unique journey that prompts reflection on the fundamental questions of human existence."

_____


___

Nil Gallery

The essence of Nil Gallery, located in the Parisian district Le Marais and founded in 2016 by Hugo Zeytoun, revolves around the support and promotion of emerging and established contemporary artists hailing from and around the world. At Nil Gallery, we pride ourselves in collaborating with artists from a wide range of practices, who embody a deep social commitment combining a singular artistic approach with a striking narrative.

Since the gallery’s creation, the team has strived to give it an international dimension, participating in and organizing numerous international exhibitions across America, Asia, Africa and Europe. In addition to the gallery’s commitment to showcasing international creatives, Nil Gallery also provides artist residencies, fostering a climate of trust that encourages creativity and artistic growth.

___

Fathi Hassan's solo exhibition will be on display at Art Paris from April 4th to April 7th, located at booth 19


Smart Safety - Why You Should Never Post Your Hotel On Social Media According To An Expert

 Why You Should Think Twice Before Posting Photos Or Details About Your Hotel Online

Whether you’re gearing up for your Easter vacation or you’ve got a trip planned in the next few weeks, if you’re staying in a beautiful hotel, it’s tempting to post photos all over social media so everyone can see what a great time you’re having.

But Vincent Iachetta Jr., president of Peppermonkey Media, reveals how you could be unknowingly making yourself vulnerable by posting your hotel on social media.

Your Home Could Be Burgled

With the rise of social media, burglars can now use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to find empty houses. This is why you should never do vacation countdown posts or disclose the start and end dates of your trip. Airport shots and hotel photos tell criminals you’re leaving or have left the country or state, meaning your home is empty and open for burglary. 

Vincent says, ‘Even worse, if you post on social media and are later burgled, your insurance company may reject your claim, saying that you made yourself vulnerable through avoidable actions. If you tag your friends while you’re away, you’ll reveal their locations too, putting them at risk.’

You Could Reveal Your Hotel Room

If you post hotel photos while on vacation, you make it easier for criminals to track your movements and location in real time. This could open the door to stalking, rape, theft, assault, and more. If you’re a female solo traveler, you’re at even greater risk. Finally, if someone discovers your room number, they could fraudulently charge services to your room, running up a huge bill that you’ll have to pay for! This is why your room number should be a secret only you and the hotel’s receptionist know.

You Can’t Trust Public Wi-Fi

Vincent says, ‘Public Wi-Fi is often freely available in cafes, shops, train stations, and airports. While free Wi-Fi is tempting, these networks are notoriously insecure, so hackers could easily view your hotel pictures and vacation information. You could also expose sensitive data like your login credentials or financial information. In turn, cybercriminals could access your social media accounts, financial resources, and more.’

What You Should Do

Before traveling, make sure your home is secure and alarmed, and consider asking a neighbor to check on your home and pick up your mail so it looks like you’re still at home. You can also set up lights on a timer to fool any watchful criminals into thinking there’s still someone inside the house. 

Vincent says, ‘Crucially, wait till you return home before you post your hotel pics. That way everyone can still enjoy them, and you’ll have complete peace of mind to enjoy your vacation.’

About Peppermonkey Media 

Peppermonkey Media is a digital marketing agency located on the Jersey Shore, offering various services like web design, PPC, SEO, and social media marketing to small and medium-sized businesses across the United States. 

Founded by Vincent Iachetta Jr., the agency prioritizes honesty, integrity, and passion, aiming to build professional and transparent relationships with clients while adhering to clear roadmaps for achieving goals.

Post courtesy of  https://peppermonkeymedia.com, who provided this information. 

Body & Beauty - The Art of Non-Surgical Facelifts with Personalized Hair Extensions



Hair Lingerie: The Studio in Los Angeles offers a unique approach to beauty enhancement, providing the rejuvenating effects of a facelift without surgery. This method focuses on the strategic use of hair extensions designed to restore the hair's natural volume, thickness, and length, reminiscent of one's younger years. The Hair Lingerie Facelift relies on adding rather than reducing by integrating extensions that complement the natural hair, offering a natural-looking rejuvenation.


Hair Lingerie offers a variety of extensions tailored to individual needs, ensuring a perfect match for enhancing volume, thickness, or length. Their signature Tape-in extensions are the gold standard of hair extensions, offering a virtually invisible tape that blends flawlessly at the root, creating a natural, undetectable look. The Tape-ins prioritize both hair length and health, promoting growth and repair. Maintenance is a breeze with Tape-in extensions, requiring a quick visit to the salon for just less than 1.5 hours, depending on the service every 5 to 8 weeks.


Weft extensions, on the other hand, are ideal for those looking for extensions that can keep up with their active lifestyle. They focus on adding natural-looking thickness to the middle and ends of your hair, perfect for individuals who desire a subtle yet noticeable improvement. Low-maintenance marvels prefer Weft extensions as they require minimal upkeep, with maintenance appointments scheduled every 8 to 10 weeks. 


Moreover, clip-in extensions are the instant glam option, offering convenience, versatility, and customization. Hair Lingerie goes the extra mile, offering custom coloring, perming, straightening, and cutting services on top of the tutorials on proper application, removal, and styling techniques from their hair experts to ensure your Clip-in extensions seamlessly blend with your natural hair.


Hair Lingerie: The Studio has the best hair artists who understand the unique needs and desires of each client and offer a personalized approach to achieving your dream hair goals. Each extension type is designed to add length or volume and strategically enhance your features, offering a non-invasive route to a fresher, younger-looking you. Hair Lingerie's approach has garnered praise for its ability to deliver significant, visible change without the need for surgical interventions.


Choosing a Hair Lingerie Facelift means opting for a path of minimal intervention with maximum impact. It respects the integrity of natural beauty while offering a significant, visible change. The studio invites those looking to recapture the vibrancy of their younger years to discover how hair extensions can be the cornerstone of a non-surgical facelift, promising a profound and natural transformation.


Music Minute - Mira Goto: Before

 A California native with country music coursing through her veins, Mira Goto seamlessly blends her enchanting mix of country and pop into the vibrant music scene. With a magnetic personality, exceptional musical talent, and undeniable charm, Goto embodies the epitome of a true artist. Her latest project is her EP titled Before, holds a special place in her heart. This 5-track recording is a testament to her heartfelt musical abilities and showcases her personal journey as a singer-songwriter and a modern-day individual. Download and stream Before on all digital music platforms here.


Mira Goto shared, "I'm so proud of this project, this is a really good representation of who I am as a writer, an artist, and a woman."

Recorded at Prime Recording Studios in Nashville, Before was brought to life under the meticulous eye of producer Derek Garten. Renowned for his keen vision and meticulous craftsmanship, Garten's collaboration with Mira breathed life into her songs, allowing them to stand independently. Reflecting on their partnership, Mira expresses gratitude for Garten's ability to elevate her music and bring her vision to fruition.

Keep up to date with Mira Goto on social media platforms FacebookInstagramTikTok as well as YouTube for her latest videos and her website www.miragoto.com.

Stream and download her music on digital music platforms SpotifyApple MusicAmazon MusicYouTube MusicPandora and more.

About Mira Goto:
Mira Goto, rooted in the heart of California's Santa Cruz Mountains, has been immersed in country music long before her migration to Nashville. Goto embodies the complete package by seamlessly blending elements of country and pop with an irresistible personality, exceptional musical prowess, and undeniable charm.
Her latest offering, the EP Before, was eagerly awaited and is deeply personal to Mira. With five tracks that speak to her soul, this record showcases Goto's heartfelt musicality, delving into her experiences as both an artist and a contemporary individual.
Recorded at Nashville's esteemed Prime Recording Studios, "Before" was crafted under the guidance of producer Derek Garten, known for his meticulous attention to detail and acclaimed work on 'Taylor's Versions.' Reflecting on their collaboration, Mira acknowledges Garten's ability to breathe life into her songs, enabling them to stand independently. She expresses gratitude for finding such a remarkable partner in Derek.
Mira Goto's musical journey began in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where she initially explored her passion for music through the violin before transitioning to the guitar in her teenage years. Encouraged by her sister, Goto took to the stage, embodying the essence of a true singer-songwriter, weaving compelling narratives through her music.
Setting herself apart from conventional country sounds, Goto coined her style as "Diet Country," advocating for authenticity and staying true to oneself. Drawing inspiration from artists like Kacey Musgraves, The Civil Wars, Ingrid Michaelson, and Dashboard Confessional, she emphasizes the importance of telling one's unique story in the best way possible.
Her debut album, "New Plaid Shirt," released in 2013 under her previous name Mira Parfitt, showcased her potential, earning her recognition in the WCS International Songwriting Competition. The single "Next Life" (2018), featuring Marc Broussard, foreshadowed her rising success. In 2019, Goto was honored as the Santa Cruz GoodTimes NEXTies "Musician of the Year."
In 2020, she unveiled her debut album "Nobody Warned Me," recorded by the esteemed Ken Caillat (Fleetwood Mac). The album's title track soared to #34 on the Music Row Country Chart, establishing Mira Goto as a captivating performer. With nationwide performances and a devoted fan base extending to Northern Ireland, Goto continues to leave her mark on the country and pop rock scene, proving her talent, passion, and dedication to crafting music that resonates worldwide.

Music Minute - Crystal Gayle and The Glenn Miller Orchestra: Sentimental Journey

 Grammy®, AMA, ACM, and CMA award-winning country music singer and Grand Ole Opry member Crystal Gayle has joined forces with The Glenn Miller Orchestra for a new rendition of the classic “Sentimental Journey,” which is the first single from the new album on Hindsight Records, The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 80th Anniversary Of The Army Air Force Band which contains fifteen hits newly recorded with strings. Initially recorded by Doris Day and Les Brown, “Sentimental Journey” became a massive hit during World War II and continues to stand the test of time. Premiered by People.com, “Sentimental Journey” features the timeless vocals of Crystal Gayle combined with the unforgettable arrangements of The Glenn Miller Orchestra. The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 80th Anniversary Of The Army Air Force Band is available for pre-order and will be released on April 5th.


To purchase/stream, visit CGayleGlennMillerOrch.lnk.to/SentimentalJourney
To preorder The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 80th Anniversary Of The Army Air Force Band, visit: GlennMillerOrchestra.link.to/80thAnniversaryArmyAirForceBandPR.

"I am honored and excited to be invited to sing "Sentimental Journey" with The Glenn Miller Orchestra," smiles Crystal Gayle. "I am a longtime fan of Glenn Miller and the big band era."

"We are excited and pleased to present alongside Hindsight Records our new recording celebrating the 80th Anniversary of Glenn Miller’s Army Air Force Band," shares Charles De Stefano, CEO of Glenn Miller Productions, Inc. "We are equally thrilled to have the wonderful Crystal Gayle join the Glenn Miller Orchestra on our recording of the great classic “Sentimental Journey.” We hope Glenn Miller Orchestra fans and Crystal’s fans around the world enjoy this new dynamic recording."

Between 1939 and 1942, Glenn Miller led The Glenn Miller Orchestra, which became one of the most recognized names globally during the “Swing” era. Boasting an unmatched series of chart-topping records, The Glenn Miller Orchestra surpassed the sales of Benny Goodman, Artie Shaw, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Jimmie Lunceford, Tommy Dorsey, and Harry James combined. Throughout three and a half years, Miller produced 16 chart-toppers and 72 top-ten hits, including a remarkable 31 in 1940 alone and earning the first-ever gold record for “Chattanooga Choo Choo.” Miller's music not only defined the era of World War II but has endured as a timeless soundtrack, with bands carrying his legacy performing to enthusiastic crowds over the 80 years since his passing. Today, under the direction of Erik Stabnau, the current Glenn Miller Orchestra maintains a rigorous schedule, standing as one of the few full-time big bands still thriving in the contemporary music scene.

"Crystal Gayle and The Glenn Miller Orchestra are a natural together on "Sentimental Journey" - a trip back in time to revisit the sounds of the 1940s and the perfect introduction to The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 80th Anniversary Of The Army Air Force Band." - Erik Stabnau - Music Director for The Glenn Miller Orchestra

'The Glenn Miller Orchestra: 80th Anniversary Of The Army Air Force Band' Track Listing:
Moonlight Serenade
In The Mood
All I Do I Dream Of You
Sunrise Serenade
Long Ago (And Far Away)
I’ll Get By (As Long As I Have You)
Cherokee
Sentimental Journey (With Crystal Gayle)
Begin The Beguine
Speak Low
Pennsylvania 6-5000
I Know Why (And So Do You)
Adios
At Last
Chattanooga Choo Choo

About Crystal Gayle:
Grammy®-winning songstress Crystal Gayle is an award-winning country music icon whose reign in the music business includes 22 No. 1 country hits, 3 Top 10 pop hits, six albums certified Gold by the RIAA, and the first female artist in country music history to reach platinum sales with her 1977 album, We Must Believe in Magic. Her list of platinum and gold was to be matched only by her awards and accolades. CMA’s “Female Vocalist of the Year,” for two consecutive years, she became a Grammy® Award Winner for “Best Female Vocal Performance,” thanks to her beloved “Brown Eyes” – a song that she today admits she has never grown tired of singing. Crystal swept the Academy of Country Music Awards for three of their “Top Female Vocalist'' statuettes. She is the recipient of three “American Music Awards,” voted by the nation as America’s “Favorite Female Artist.” Perhaps nothing sums up Crystal’s career achievements and being awarded a star on the fabled Hollywood Walk of Fame in October 2009. Also famous for her nearly floor-length hair, she was voted among the 50 most beautiful people in the world by People Magazine. In August 2016, the Academy of Country Music honored Crystal with the Cliffie Stone Pioneer Award during the 10th Annual ACM Honors. Gayle was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in January 2017 by her sister and Opry legend Loretta Lynn. For more information, visit crystalgayle.com.

More about The Glenn Miller Orchestra:
The Glenn Miller Orchestra is owned and operated by Glenn Miller Productions, Inc., under license from the Miller Estate. Glenn Miller Productions, Inc., has the sole and exclusive right to use the Glenn Miller Orchestra name. 

The orchestra, reorganized in 1956 and on the road ever since, has performed in all 50 United States and throughout Europe, Australia, Iceland, New Zealand, Guam, the Philippines, and South and Central America. Additionally, the orchestra has toured Japan annually since 1964. The “Road Book” carried by the Glenn Miller Orchestra adds up to over 300 charts, many of which are out of the original library. Today, the complete library has over 1,700 compositions, including the original charts from the civilian and Army Air Force bands. 

More about Hindsight Records:
Hindsight Records is one of North America's largest Bebop and Big Band catalogs. They restore, maintain, and manage a vast catalog of not only some of the greatest jazz recordings of all time but also have the pleasure of giving that same “kid gloves’ treatment with some more contemporary artists and an awe-inspiring mass of some of the greatest classical works of our time. Hindsight Records also owns Country Rewind Records, which releases unheard recordings from some of the greatest classic country artists of all time, including Waylon Jennings, Conway Twitty, Ferlin Husky, Bob Luman, and more!

Fun Freetime - Easter Toys with Trisha Hershberger