Archives for April 2024

Disney’s The Lion King 30th Anniversary – A Live-to-Film Concert Event at the Hollywood Bowl May 24 & May 25

From the Producers of Disney’s Encanto at the Hollywood Bowl and Elton John Live: Farewell from Dodger Stadium, Disney Concerts, Fulwell 73 Productions, AMP Worldwide and Live Nation-Hewitt Silva present Disney’s The Lion King 30th Anniversary – A Live-to-Film Concert Event at the Hollywood Bowl for one weekend only on Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25. Tickets go on sale Friday, April 19th at 10 a.m. PT at Ticketmaster.com. American Express® Card Members can purchase tickets before the general public beginning Tuesday, April 16th at 10 a.m. PT through Thursday, April 18th at 10 p.m. PT.

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ classic “The Lion King” for two special evenings at the Hollywood Bowl. Experience life in the Pride Lands in an immersive live-to-film concert event featuring the original 1994 film roaring from the Bowl screens while a full orchestra performs Hans Zimmer’s rousing Oscar®-winning musical score led by conductor Sarah Hicks.

The concert event will also feature live performances of the beloved songs written for the film by Sir Elton John and lyricist Sir Tim Rice, including “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” (Academy Award® for Original Song), “Circle Of Life” and “Hakuna Matata” by original cast singers from the 1994 and 2019 films including Billy Eichner (“Timon” 2019), Oscar® winner Jeremy Irons (“Scar” 1994), Oscar® and Tony Award® winner Nathan Lane (“Timon” 1994), Ernie Sabella (“Pumbaa” 1994), and Jason Weaver (“Young Simba” 1994). Special guests Bradley Gibson (“Simba” in the Broadway stage production) and EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson will join additional celebrity special guests to be announced, along with a full choir, lively projections on the Bowl shell, FIREWORKS and more!

The evening also pays tribute to the success and global phenomenon of Broadway’s Tony Award®-winning musical “The Lion King.” Cast members from the production will perform select numbers for the first time at the Hollywood Bowl, featuring the show’s award-winning and artistically acclaimed costumes, set design and innovative puppetry.

The unique concert event will celebrate the timeless story of “The Lion King” and its evolution over 30 years – from the original 1994 animated film to the 1998 Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical, to 2019’s dramatic live-action film that brought the characters to life in a whole new way, to the present with Walt Disney Studios’ upcoming live-action film “Mufasa: The Lion King” set to hit theatres later this year. Costumes celebrating favorite Lion King characters – Simbas, Timons, Zazus and more are encouraged!

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Lion King” journeys to the African savanna where a future king is born. Simba idolizes his father, King Mufasa, and takes to heart his own royal destiny. But not everyone in the kingdom celebrates the new cub’s arrival. Scar, Mufasa’s brother — and former heir to the throne — has plans of his own. The battle for Pride Rock is riddled with betrayal, tragedy and drama, ultimately resulting in Simba’s exile. With help from his long-lost friend, Nala, and a curious pair of newfound friends, Pumbaa and Timon, Simba must figure out how to face his past and take back what is rightfully his.

Disney’s The Lion King 30th Anniversary – A Live to Film Concert Event will be produced by Disney Concerts, AMP Worldwide, Fulwell 73 Productions and Live Nation-Hewitt Silva. Gabe Turner and Sally Wood are Fulwell 73’s creative showrunners, and Misty Buckley is production designer.

Credit:
Disney Concerts and Disney Music Group.

Sherman, April 19 Pet of the Week

awwwww so cute!

Sherman is “the sweetest cat ever,” to quote adoring volunteer Susan. Sherman is 9 years old, and even though he’s considered a senior, he’s got plenty of years ahead of him. He’s a perfect lap cat, without an aggressive or mean bone in his little, orange body. He loves to be petted and would probably get along with other cats since he came from a multi-cat home. Sherman’s brother was recently adopted, and now it’s his turn. To adopt or foster Sherman, email PetAdopt@longbeach.gov to speed the process, or call (562) 570-7387. Better yet, meet him in person at Long Beach Animal Care Services, 7700 E. Spring St., Long Beach, at entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Visiting hours are Wednesday–Friday, 10 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Saturday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Ask for ID#A712088.

Books of the Week

 WALKIN’ THE DOG, the newest middle grade novel by National Book Award finalist Chris Lynch

In a family of strong personalities with very strong points of view, Louis is what his mother lovingly calls “the inactivist,” someone who’d rather kick back than stand out. He only hopes he can stay under the radar when he starts high school in the fall, his first experience with public school after years of homeschooling. But when a favor for a neighbor and his stinky canine companion unexpectedly turns into a bustling dog-walking business, Louis finds himself meeting an unprecedented number of new friends—both human and canine. Agatha, a quippy and cagey girl his age always seems to be telling two truths and a lie. Cyrus, a few years his senior, promises he’s going to show Louis how to be a better person, whether Louis wants him to or not. And then there are the dogs: misbehaving border terriers, the four (possible stolen) sausage dogs, the rest of Louis’s charges, and a mysterious white beast who appears at a certain spot at the edge of the woods. 

Dogs and human alike all seem to have something they want to teach Louis, including his menacing older brother who keeps turning up everywhere. But is Louis ready to learn the lesson he needs most: how to stop being a lone wolf and be part of a pack?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chris Lynch is the award–winning author of several highly acclaimed young adult novels, including Printz Honor Book FreewillIcemanGypsy Davey, and Shadow Boxer—all ALA Best Books for Young Adults—as well as Killing Time in Crystal CityLittle Blue LiesPiecesKill SwitchAngry Young Man, and Inexcusable, which was a National Book Award finalist and the recipient of six starred reviews. Chris is the author of middle grade novel Walkin’ the Dog. He holds an MA from the writing program at Emerson College. He teaches in the creative writing MFA program at Lesley University. He lives in Boston and in Scotland.

SOLAR BEAR

NYT-bestselling author Beth Ferry and Caldecott Honoree Brendan Wenzel’s powerful picture book, SOLAR BEAR is the perfect book for Earth Day!

 In this lyrical call-to-action about the climate crisis, a band of glowing polar bears shine their light on endangered species around the world to raise awareness about extinction. The result is a hauntingly beautiful collaboration – complete with informative backmatter about endangered species, success stories from conservationist work, and ways to join the cause to protect wildlife – that will inspire young readers to resist indifference and make change for animals who can’t advocate for themselves. 

Between Brendan’s avid work as a conservationist (which you can read more about in the book’s backmatter) and Beth’s ability to hold space for both urgency and hope – an essential lesson for young readers and adults alike – this picture book serves as a soulful love letter to all the animals who live on planet Earth with us. 

 Newbery Award-winning author Patricia MacLachlan’s final novel PAINTING THE GAME

Lucy’s father is a minor league baseball player, a professional pitcher hoping to get called up to the majors, and Lucy inherited his passion for the game. But she’s never played pitcher. She worries her skills would be compared to her dad’s and she’d never measure up. And his pitching may mean big things for his career and their family, but it’s also what keeps him away from home so much of the year. Sometimes, Lucy isn’t sure what would be worse: being bad at pitching or being great.

Still, this summer, Lucy wants to learn to throw the perfect knuckleball. She wakes up at the crack of dawn to practice in secret, without her friends Tex and Robin—or even the goats who watch them play. Even as she trains relentlessly, Lucy wonders if she’ll ever feel brave enough to share her progress with her mom or dad. Can she prove to them, and herself, that she has what it takes?

This is a wonderful middle grade read!

Loved this one!

THIS WOLF WAS DIFFERENT: written by Katie Slivensky; illustrated by Hannah Salyer Inspired by natural history, this captivating picture book imagines how humans and wolves first came together. Long ago, a wolf pup was born in a forest. This pup was a wolf, and so were her brothers and sisters. But this wolf was different. She liked staying close to the den instead of hunting, and wished she were more like her siblings—more like a real wolf. Then she meets a new kind of creature, a human. As a new friendship blossoms, the wolf discovers that it’s okay to be different. This gorgeously illustrated book includes extensive backmatter with scientific information about how wolves and humans first connected. 

ONE DAY THIS TREE WILL FALL.

ONE DAY THIS TREE WILL FALL: written by Leslie Barnard Booth, illustrated by Stephanie Fizer Coleman. Discover how a tree’s wounds and decay bring new life to the forest ecosystem in this lyrical nonfiction picture book. There are many ways a tree’s story could end: Gobbled up by a bird as a tiny seed. Damaged by wind or ice or fire. Chopped down and hauled away. But some trees survive, and grow old. Riddled with scars, cracks, and crevices, one specific tree becomes a place creatures large and small call home. One day, after standing tall for centuries, this tree will fall. But even then, is its story over? Or will it continue to nurture the forest and its creatures for many years to come?

I love the main (mouse)character in this book!

THE QUIET FOREST: written by Charlotte Offsay, illustrated by Abi Cushman. A mischievous mouse wanders alone in a quiet, nothing-to-do forest. Until one small mishap snowballs into a chain of outrageous events, causing the whole forest full of animals to have a very loud day indeed. Can they find a way to bring calm and quiet back to their home? Link to a PDF of THE QUIET FOREST.

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate in this featured book post. Cover images and info were also received. As always, I only feature books that I recommend.

The Greatest Hits * An Emotional Comedy, Drama, And Fantasy Film That Highlights The Impact Of Music

Harriet (Lucy Boynton) finds art imitating life when she discovers certain songs can transport her back in time — literally. While she relives the past through romantic memories of her former boyfriend (David Corenswet), her time traveling collides with a burgeoning new love interest in the present (Justin H. Min). As she takes her journey through the hypnotic connection between music and memory, she wonders — even if she could change the past, should she?

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Zoe C. comments, “The Greatest Hits is an emotional comedy, drama, and fantasy film that highlights the impact of music. The cute yet sentimental storyline is unique, and I especially love how this film uses music as a metaphor to depict grief, and the stages people go through processing it.” See her full review below.  

The Greatest Hits 

By Zoë C, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 15

The Greatest Hits is an emotional comedy, drama, and fantasy film that highlights the impact of music. The cute yet sentimental storyline is unique, and I especially love how this film uses music as a metaphor to depict grief, and the stages people go through processing it. 

The film introduces Harriet (Lucy Boynton) who loses her boyfriend in a car accident. The tragedy leaves Harriet with trauma and also the ability to go back in time. When she hears a song that’s connected with a memory, the ability to time travel is triggered, and Harriet goes back to that time. Harriet tries to bring Max back, and faces many life-challenge obstacles that don’t allow her to recover from his death. Two years later, Harriet remembers the accident like it happened yesterday—she visits a support group where she meets David (Justin H. Min). And so Harriet must “face the music” and make some very tough decisions.

This film is authentic, heartbreaking, and very relatable. I love the soundtrack and connected with it so much as I constantly listen to music, and I love how music symbolizes different stages of life.  Throughout the film, Harriet is desperately looking for ways to bring Max back. While this makes Harriet relatable, I also found this to be the film’s biggest flaw. That being said I did find the plot to be very cute and romantic. The story is about overcoming grief, and I like how the film represents what that means to Harriet. However, the acting and script aren’t as strong as I wished. Lucy Boynton does deliver a very good performance as she shows how grief can harshly impact one’s life. And I liked Austin Crute’s performance as Harriet’s best friend—their chemistry is refreshing as he supports Harriet through her grieving process. Finally, I enjoy the aesthetic of this film—the warm cinematography is pleasing to the eye.

The message of this film is that sometimes we need to let go of the past to move forward with the present. 

I give The Greatest Hits 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults.  The Greatest Hits debuts in limited release in theaters on April 5, 2024 and on Hulu April 23, 2024.

Los Angeles Times Announces Slate of Talent for 29th Annual Festival of Books

The Los Angeles Times today announced the lineup for the 29th annual Festival of Books, to be held April 20-21 at the University of Southern California. The weekend festival will bring together more than 550 writers, experts and storytellers, and hundreds of exhibitors to the 226-acre campus. 

Participants scheduled to appear include Hanif AbdurraqibKaveh AkbarJosé AndrésMaria BamfordLance BassEd Begley Jr.BlippiAllison Holker BossHannah BrownSophia BushSarah CooperS.A. Cosbythe CrunchBrosJohn DensmoreRadhi DevlukiaTananarive DueJon FavreauJing GaoLauren GrahamJohn GreenMax GreenfieldTaylor HackfordTiffany HaddishTamron HallMark HarmonGilbert & Jaime HernandezJoe IdeGeorge M. JohnsonMiranda JulyHayley KiyokoRon KovicEriq La SalleChristina LaurenJonathan LethemLois LowryAriana MadixJenny MartinezWalter MosleyMythical KitchenMaggie NelsonViet Thanh NguyenMichele NorrisTodd ParrQCPRonda RouseyRuPaulDan SantatJohn ScalziLisa SeeJay ShettyNancy SilvertonJane SmileyPhillipa SooOctavia SpencerGeorge StephanopoulosAmber & Russ TamblynTiffani ThiessenTinxHéctor TobarJustin TorresAbraham VergheseTommy VietorKerry WashingtonHenry WinklerZev Yaroslavsky and Ed Zwick, with more to be announced in the coming weeks. 

Weekend highlights include:

Two special installments of the Ideas Exchange speaker series: RuPaul discussing his highly-anticipated memoir “The House of Hidden Meanings” on Saturday, April 20; and José Andrés discussing his new cookbook “Zaytinya” on Sunday, April 21.

An L.A. Times Book Club event featuring Abraham Verghese, author of “The Covenant of Water.”

A screening of “Turtles All the Way Down,” a film debuting on Max this spring and based on the novel of the same name, followed by a discussion with author and executive producer John Green, director Hannah Marks,and actors Isabela Merced, Cree and Felix Mallard.

A discussion with “Pod Save America” hosts Jon Favreau and Tommy Vietor on the 2024 campaign and their book “Democracy or Else: How to Save America in 10 Easy Steps.”

Seven outdoor stages and activity areas: L.A. Times Main Stage, Latinidad Stage, Children’s Stage, Poetry Stage, USC Stage, YA Stage and the return of the Cooking Stage featuring celebrity chefs Nancy SilvertonQCP and Tiffani Thiessen, among others.

Celebrity authors, family-friendly entertainment, Spanish-language programming, interactive games and exhibits.

Expert panels on a variety of topics ranging from AI and wellness to politics and pop culture.

More than 300 exhibitors with book signings, merchandise for sale, activities and giveaways.

Live music, food trucks and more.

To kick off the literary weekend, on the evening of Friday, April 19, The Times will host the 44th annual Book Prizes at USC’s Bovard Auditorium. The ceremony will honor Pulitzer Prize-winning author Jane Smiley with the Robert Kirsch Award for lifetime achievement and Access Books with the Innovator’s Award and will recognize outstanding literary achievements in 13 categories, including the new prize for achievement in audiobook production. The complete list of finalists and further information, including ticket packages, is available at latimes.com/BookPrizes

The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books is presented in association with USC. General admission to the festival is free. Friend of the Festival packages (advance ticket packages), which include reservations for indoor conversations, weekend parking and festival merchandise are available for purchase now. Individual conversation tickets will be available April 14. Festival news and updates are available on the event website and FacebookTwitter and Instagram profiles (#bookfest).  

Credit: Los Angeles Times Book Festival.

Colon Specialist Singapore: Do you also Consult them for Anus Pain?

You can see a colon specialist in Singapore for a variety of conditions, including colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis), diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. They also perform colonoscopies and other diagnostic procedures to screen for colon cancer and other diseases.

For referrals, you may be referred to a colon specialist if you experience symptoms like abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, or unexplained weight loss. Also, you can benefit from regular screenings with a colon specialist if you have a family history of colorectal cancer or other colorectal conditions.

This article explores the possible reasons for anus pain. It also clarifies which doctor to consult for anus pain.

So, which Doctor is best for Anus Pain?

Anus pain can be quite uncomfortable to live with. That said, it is not strange that many people frequently ask; which doctor should I consult for anus pain?

A colon specialist is a top choice for anus pain. These doctors specialize in the gastrointestinal tract and handle issues from the anus to the colon. For anus pain, colon specialists offer expertise and comprehensive care.

What Causes Pain in the Anus?

On your own, it isn’t easy to tell what causes your anus pain. So you will want to consult a professional like a colon specialist in Singapore for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you have been experiencing anus pain, here are some of the potential causes;

  • Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids are also known as piles. They’re swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum which can cause pain, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids can develop due to increased pressure in the lower rectum.
  • Anal Fissure: An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. This tear can cause sharp pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Fissures can result from passing hard or large stools, chronic diarrhea, or inflammation in the anal area. Treatment usually involves keeping the stool soft and promoting healing of the fissure with topical medications or, in some cases, surgery.
  • Anal Fistula: An anal fistula is an abnormal channel that forms between the anus or rectum and the skin around the anus. It can cause pain, swelling, and discharge of pus. Fistulas often result from an untreated anal abscess, which is a collection of pus in the anal area.
  • Anal or Rectal Stricture: An anal or rectal stricture is a narrowing of the anal or rectal canal, which can cause pain and difficulty passing stool. Strictures can be caused by scarring from previous surgeries, severe inflammation, or conditions such as Crohn’s disease or cancer.
  • Anal Cancer: Anal cancer is a rare but serious condition that can cause pain in the anus. It often presents with symptoms such as bleeding, itching, or discharge from the anus. Risk factors include infection with human papillomavirus (HPV), anal intercourse, and smoking.
  • Ulcerative Proctitis: Ulcerative proctitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the rectum. It can cause pain, bleeding, and diarrhea. The exact cause of ulcerative proctitis is unknown. However, it is thought to be related to an abnormal immune response.
  • Other Causes: Other less common causes of anal pain include sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as herpes or gonorrhea, and conditions like proctalgia fugax, a fleeting pain in the anus or lower rectum. These conditions require specific treatments based on the underlying cause.

What to Ask Your Colon Specialist about Anus Pain

When seeing a colon specialist for anus pain, it is also natural to wonder what to expect or what to ask them. It is simple;

When seeing a colon specialist for anus pain, expect a thorough examination of your medical history and symptoms. They may conduct a physical exam, possibly including a rectal exam. Also, diagnostic tests like a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy might be recommended to identify the cause of your anus pain. As for what to ask here are a few questions that may help;

       I.            What are the treatment options for my condition?

Treatment for anus pain depends on the underlying cause. If your anus pain is due to hemorrhoids, for example, your colon specialist in Singapore may recommend over-the-counter creams or ointments, stool softeners, and warm baths to manage symptoms.

In more severe cases, procedures like rubber band ligation or surgical removal may be necessary. Anal fissures often heal on their own. However, they may require dietary changes, fiber supplements, or prescription medications to promote healing and reduce pain.

Inflammatory bowel disease is typically managed with medications to reduce inflammation and control symptoms. If the pain is due to colorectal cancer, treatment may involve surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.

    II.            What should I do to manage my symptoms at home?

Home management strategies can also help alleviate anus pain and discomfort. But, you will need to get it right to avoid worsening your condition or the symptoms themselves.

For hemorrhoids, you will want to practice good hygiene, use soft, non-irritating toilet paper, and also avoid straining during bowel movements. Warm baths, known as sitz baths, can also provide relief for both hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also be prescribed to help with the pain and inflammation. Also, eat a high-fiber diet and stay hydrated to prevent constipation which can worsen symptoms.

 III.            Are there any warning signs or red flags I should watch out for?

Now, anus pain is often due to benign causes like hemorrhoids or fissures. However, there are certain symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention.

These include severe pain, especially if it persists or worsens despite home remedies, rectal bleeding, which may be bright red or maroon in color, changes in bowel habits, for example, persistent diarrhea or constipation, and unexplained weight loss. These symptoms could indicate a more serious underlying condition, such as colorectal cancer.

 IV.            What can I do to prevent recurrence of my condition?

Preventing recurrence of anus pain depends on the underlying cause. For hemorrhoids, maintaining good bowel habits which includes avoiding straining during bowel movements and not delaying the urge to have a bowel movement can help prevent recurrence.

Eating a high-fiber diet and staying hydrated can also help prevent constipation, which is a common trigger for hemorrhoids and anal fissures. For those with inflammatory bowel disease, adhering to prescribed medications and lifestyle modifications recommended by your colon specialist in Singapore can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of flare-ups.

     V.            How frequently should I follow up with you?

The frequency of follow-up visits will depend on the severity and underlying cause of your anus pain. Your colon specialist in Singapore will discuss an appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual needs. Please attend all scheduled follow-up appointments and to communicate any changes in your symptoms or concerns with your provider.

Closing Thoughts

A colon specialist in Singapore is the right doctor to see for anus pain. They cannot only thoroughly assess your situation but also tailor treatments depending on your situation. If you’re looking for a colon specialist in Singapore, we recommend you visit the Gastrohealth Center for Digestive and Liver Care. Details below;

Gastrohealth Center for Digestive and Liver Care

6A Napier Road,

Annexe Block #05-35C Gleneagles Hospital

Singapore 258500

820 Thomson Road,

#06-07 Mount Alvernia Medical Centre A Singapore 574623

+65 6355 5773

DON’T WASH WINSTON is silly and relatable picture book about childhood anxiety

love this book!

We’ve all been there… A bit of a spill, an overenthusiastic leap, one mud pie too many, and OH NO! our beloved stuffed animal friend suddenly has to be (gulp) WASHED!

From Ashley Belote, the celebrated illustrator of Frankenslime, comes DON’T WASH WINSTON (Feiwel & Friends, 3/26, ages 4-8), a new, all too relatable picture book from creator Ashley Belote about a dirty stuffed animal, a scary washing machine, and what it means for the child who’s anxious about their favorite bear going through a spin cycle. 

When Winston, Liam’s favorite teddy bear, gets muddy, Dad decides that Winston needs to be washed. But the washing machine is big and loud and scary! Liam decides that the only solution is to hide Winston away from this terrible fate.

Ashley Belote’s humorous and heartwarming tale, DON’T WASH WINSTON, allows anxious toy-protectors to gleefully follow along with Liam’s teddy-hiding plans, while also, in the end, leading them to the realization that sometimes it really is necessary for even the most beloved friend to be washed.

My Winston is my Snoopy!

Self Disclosure: I received a free copy of this wonderful book to facilitate this post. Images are my own.

Natalia, April 12 Pet of the Week

awwwwwwww!

Meet Natalia, a glorious, odd-eyed, redhead Siberian husky! She’s quite a character! She combines her husky talents with the personality of a somersaulting Arctic fox to give you the best entertainment you can get on four legs! She’s affectionate, loves petting from her human buddies, and takes treats eagerly but gently. You’d never believe that when she entered the shelter, she was nervous and overwhelmed. Her coat was unkempt, too. But look at her now! Natalia’s 3 years old and has been in our shelter since last July. She doesn’t need to celebrate another birthday here—she’d love to do it in a real, husky-trained home! You can speed the process to adopt or foster Natalia or any of our other pets by emailing PetAdopt@longbeach.gov or petfoster@longbeach.gov or by calling (562) 570-4925. Our shelter hours are Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., at 7700 E. Spring St. at the entrance to El Dorado Park (no parking fee for shelter visitors). Ask for ID#A702518.