Family Programming at the 2018 Florida Film Festival

By Leslie C. Halpern

Held throughout Central Florida each April, Florida Film Festival presents more than 180 feature-length and short films from 40 countries, in addition to celebrity guests, special events, film forums, and parties. This year's Festival includes competing films in narrative features and documentary programs, plus special screenings of food films, music movies, experimental shorts, international films, midnight movies, and Florida films.

Though focused primarily on movies for adults, in keeping with its annual tradition, the Florida Film Festival also offers a family programming sidebar with unique new independently produced movies appropriate for youngsters. In addition, the Spotlight Films category contains another film that children will enjoy - a documentary about Fred Rogers and his long-running television series, Mister Rogers' Neighborhood.

Family Programming

The Big Bad Fox and Other Tales...

Making its Southeast premiere at The Florida Film Festival, this adaptation of the director's own graphic novel includes hand-drawn 2-D animation. The film is comprised of three separate tales presented as a stage play by the Honeysuckle Farm Theatre Company. Complete with non-stop action and quirky talking animals, each story has a farm setting with reappearing animals that includes a mother hen, a pig, a duck, a rabbit, and a fox. The film is in French with English subtitles, but the universal action depicted on the screen tells its own story of cooperation and understanding that goes beyond words. Directed by Benjamin Renner and Patrick Imbert (animator). Run Time: 83 minutes. MPAA Rating: G.

Lu Over the Wall

Set in a small Japanese fishing village, this animated feature tells the story of 14-year-old Kai, a child of recently divorced parents who withdraws into music to deal with his grief. When he joins a band that practices by Merfolk Island, Kai meets Lu, a high-spirited mermaid with an enchanting singing voice. When the suspicious villagers learn of Lu's existence, they are divided between wanting to exploit her to revive the fishing village and fearing her presence because of a legendary curse. The film, filled with lively music and fluid Japanese anime, looks at how the magical young mermaid not only changes one boy's life, but an entire village. Directed by Masaaki Yuasa. Stars the voices of Kanon Tani, Shota Shimoda, Shin'ichi Shinohara, Akira Emoto, Soma Saito, Minako Kotobuki. Run Time: 112 minutes. MPAA Rating: PG (for some peril and thematic elements).

Family Friendly Spotlight Film

Won't You Be My Neighbor?

This documentary examines television icon Fred Rogers, who helped children understand some of life's challenges and deal with their own emotions through his calm words of wisdom. His television series Mister Rogers' Neighborhood ran for more than three decades, often using puppetry to deliver its messages. His inclusive idea that all of us belong to a global neighborhood was way ahead of its time. Directed by Academy Award-winner Morgan Neville. Stars Fred Rogers (in archival footage), Joanne Rogers, Francois Scarborough Clemmons, Yo-Yo Ma, Joe Negri, and David Newell. Run Time: 94 minutes. This film is unrated.

For more information about the Florida Film Festival, visit the official website at http://www.floridafilmfestival.com.

Leslie C. Halpern wrote the children's book, "Silly Sleepytime Poems" along with the Funny Children's Poems book series that includes "Rub, Scrub, Clean the Tub," "Shakes, Cakes, Frosted Flakes," and "Frogs, Hogs, Puppy Dogs." All available at Amazon.com. Learn more on her website: http://www.lesliehalpern.com or on Facebook:    https://www.facebook.com/funnychildrenspoems.

Article Source:  Family Programming at the 2018 Florida Film Festival

New Insight Into How Immune Cells Are Formed

By Richa Verma

After several attempts by various scientists and researchers, it is finally revealed that they have made a ground-breaking invention - The skin patch. It has the ability, not only to heal but also regrow damaged organs within a short span of time. The technology used to develop this is called (TNT) Tissue Nanotransfection. The technique is reprogramming of skin cells. Inducing pluripotent stem cells are the most common instances of reprogramming where the stem cells such as the blood or skin is converted to an embryonic stem cell by introducing it to some reprogramming genes to it. The method requires the path to be placed on the wound or target area and then removed. During this process, the chip injects a genetic code into the cells of the skin which helps restore the wounded/damaged blood vessels. The research team at Ohio State University were successful in restoring cognitive functions on lab mice with serious damage in its limbs.

The chip injects bits of DNA into the skin pores with just a shot of electricity. It is then, that the DNA drops its identity and reprograms itself to the certain cell type which can be further harvested to fix injured and severed organs. This technological advancement is likely to help in the reconstruction of damaged internal organs, restoration of old and aged tissues and in bringing relief in brain regeneration.

The Ohio team has built this device with silicone of the size of a stamp and it serves the purpose of a reservoir as well as an injector. It's as small as a penny. It is micro-etched with several nano channels that help in connecting with the microscopic dents.

Another path-changing aspect about this invention is that it does not involve expensive cell isolating methods nor does it warrant tedious manipulation in the laboratory. This technology would use the patient's skin itself for the conversion to take place and thus making the human skin a prolific bioreactor.

Researchers believe that if this technology is further bettered, it can help in a massive way in relieving and restoring cognitive functions and also help patients with Alzheimer, Parkinson disease as well as relieve brain tumors.

The team is now waiting for approval of human trials, as it uses the person's own skin cells and doesn't require external medication. This extensive research was led by Dr. Chandan Sen, Director of Centre of regenerative medicine and Cell-based Therapies and was funded by Leslie and Abigail Wexner, Ohio State's Centre for Regenerative Medicine and Cell-Based Therapies and Ohio State's Nanoscale Science and Engineering Centre.

This invention can not only instil hope and faith in a lot of people but also help them recover and heal completely without having to go through an invasive surgery, but instead use their own living cells to heal themselves. According to Dr. Chandan, it will take a little longer to get the approval of FDA to start their human trials, following to the success of which, is the possibility of this technology being available for the masses.

Read more about cord blood banking at   https://www.cordlifeindia.com

Article Source:  New Insight Into How Immune Cells Are Formed

The Reasons Why the Royalty Free Music Is Gaining Momentum

By Aman Tumukur Khanna

Music is the essence of the life and for the majority of the people, it is an enjoyable affair. There is so much variety in the music that sometimes one can get confused. The Music is more like a company to the ears and to oneself. People these days want to carry it wherever they go, be it a smartphone, iPod, iPad, laptop etc. It is not possible to keep downloading the music every now and then there are issues of the music being copyrighted or protected, not downloadable etc. One more type of music is the "royalty free music" which is a sort of music license which allows the buyer to pay once and enjoy the music until whatever time he wants.

Royalty free music streamlines the music license by eliminating the negotiation factor with the Performance rights organisation also knows as the PRO and also provides you with the access to use the copyrighted music by a one- time payment. It is a sort of license where a royalty is paid and is one of the major reasons for the companies to resort to this means.

Even though the meaning looks simple, yet many baffling ideas are in circulation regarding this concept as there is a word "free "associated with it. People often get confused due to this and it would be better if we take a brief look at what all "royalty free music "does not cover ".

• It can be compared to a duty -free product which does not come free of cost. So we pay the price for the product but no duties or taxes. Similarly, there is a royalty we pay for the music after which it is free.

• This music definitely has a copyright owner and protection, but since a royalty is paid for the license, it becomes free even though rights are with the other person.

• It is not limited to any specific genre of music and is not of an inferior quality.

• It is not always a very high royalty license charge that one has to pay. It could vary as per choices.

After a brief insight, let us also consider its importance and the benefits for a person to resort for royalty free music than free music if available, and some of the reasons are mentioned as under:

• The person who buys this music wishes to edit and bring it to some commercial use.

• They are looking for high- quality music without any omissions.

• The company or people who buy the music are trying to protect themselves against any problems and even get a legal support.

• It can be easily downloaded as there are many sites who offer this option at a very good speed.

So, we can say that royalty music is more like an achievement of a free and superb promotional method and is an ideal option for those who wish to work with hypermedia projects.

Article Source:  The Reasons Why the Royalty Free Music Is Gaining Momentum

Those French Quarter Specialties, Like Nowhere Else

By Dale Phillip

New Orleans foodies are very particular about the their favorite native foods, so don't confuse Cajun (which is "low country") with Creole, and well, we wouldn't dare mess with French cooking (say no more). Especially in the French Quarter these fine native dishes abound, so let's look at the most popular:

Jambalaya: a traditional French and Spanish combination of andouille sausage, shrimp, chicken and sometimes pork, with an emphasis on meats rather than shellfish, all in a spicy and flavorful stew which includes rice and vegetables, the Creole style is native to the famed French Quarter; Cajun version does not include tomatoes; it's your basic Spanish paella with a French Creole or Cajun twist;

Gumbo: Louisiana's official state food, similar to jambalaya but includes fil� powder (a spice from the sassafras tree) and okra, which are not common in jambalaya. Gumbo is also served separately over white rice; gumbos, �touff�es, and creoles dishes are considered more complex in preparation (remember, you're dealing with very specific versions here), and whether or not you are eating at a New Orleans restaurant or in other parts of the state; renowned chef Paul Prudhomme put gumbo on the map;

Crawfish Etouffee: another variation on gumbo and jambalaya which always includes crawfish or shrimp, and maybe crab, but does not have sausage or other meats; from the French word "smothered" and served over rice; considered a bit lighter than its two cousins;

(If you are planning on preparing any of the above dishes yourself, it would be wise to simply pick up a bottle of Paul Prudhomme's or Emeril Lagassi's blended spices to really do them justice.)

Po' Boy and Muffaletta: New Orleans sandwiches, with very specific ingredients and breads (not to be found at any sub shop);

Red Beans 'n Rice: just what it sounds like, a spicy rice dish with red kidney beans;

Oysters abound and are plentiful in New Orleans, fresh from the salty waters of the Gulf of Mexico, served raw with red sauce, Rockefeller-style or in an oyster loaf, lightly breaded and fried, between two slices of "pullman loaf bread" and slathered with mayo, topped with tomato slices, (not on any low-fat diet, to be sure, but delicious); shake on a few drops of hot sauce, open a cold brew and you're eatin';

Shrimp Remoulade: a Creole favorite, from famed restaurants Galatoire's and Brennan's, Gulf shrimp in a spicy tomato-based sauce, served with hard-boiled egg, sliced cucumbers and maybe a few olives, it's a winner and don't skimp on the Tabasco;

Andouille sausage: smoked pork sausage, originally brought to Louisiana by French immigrants that has been eagerly incorporated into much of Creole cooking; if you can't find it, other sausage can be substituted but it just won't be the same, and for heaven sake don't use hot dogs;

Beignets and a strong cup of caf� au lait: high on any tourist's list, these light fried doughnuts accompanied by strong coffee is why Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter is always crowded;

Creole Bread Pudding: similar to mom's, but don't serve it without bourbon sauce;

Bananas Foster: created and still top drawer at famed Brennan's restaurant since 1951, this flaming dessert features a rich butter and brown sugar sauce, over vanilla ice cream;

Creme Brulee: legendary Commander's Palace in the French Quarter rocks with their basic dessert, a version of flan or Italian creme caramel, but with a burnt sugar topping, adopted from Parisian chefs and first popularized in New York City at well-known restaurant Le Cirque (don't tell that to any self-respecting New Orleans fan);

And of course, no article on New Orleans cuisine would be complete without two of their most popular (and potent) cocktails:

Hurricanes, made with two kinds of rum and fruit juice, don't leave home without aspirin or a designated driver; and

Ramos Gin Fizz, a delightful combination of gin, lemon and lime juice, cream, egg white and club soda, don't be fooled by its seemingly innocent frothy taste, it can be deadly if you drink a few; created by Henry Ramos, who operated the Imperial Cabinet Saloon in downtown New Orleans, sadly no longer in existence, but happily the drink is still immensely popular; this is not your basic gin and tonic;

Well, there you have it. The best New Orleans has to offer. No other place does it quite as well, and locals will be the first to tell you that. If you're fortunate enough to make your way to New Orleans, don't miss these incredible dishes. The Big Easy could well be called The Big Waistline. Enjoy.

Author Dale Phillip had the privilege of visiting New Orleans and ate her way through the French Quarter. s a huge fan of seafood, she reveled in the native dishes which were chock full of shrimp, crab and oysters, and the spicy combinations were not to be missed.
She resides in Southern California,where Cajun cooking is not exactly king, but she reminisces about native cuisines and looks forward to returning to The Big Easy someday. She invites you to view her many articles on Food and Drink, and her blog: http://myfriendlyu.blogspot.com/

Article Source:  Those French Quarter Specialties, Like Nowhere Else

Why It Matters

By Delia Armstrong-Busby

WHY IT MATTERS: THOUGHTS ON THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT IN CAREER PLANNING

Communities grow its youth in numerous ways. As an award winning educator entering my forty seventh year of educational service; I am delighted with the youth programs I support through the El Pomar Foundation in Colorado Springs.

Over the years of my volunteerism I am aware of the educational engagement support to families and school districts which have a dynamic impact on the present and the future of urban culture. I have watched as youth of all backgrounds arrive at post-secondary informational events hosted on disparate college settings energized to learn about and find pathways for what can come next in their planning. It is a groundbreaking experience for now thousands of students. A preponderance of these students have a new vision quest because of the exposure offered by this careers program. Energy is a distinctive trait for why this program works for youth.

There are a plethora of volunteers who act as guides for the day and do outreach for inclusion. Judges, business leaders, self-defense trainers, military veterans, a delightful assemblage of American range and diversity people the ranks of volunteers and life-informed believers in helping these youngsters from the secondary school realize who there are and who they can be. Future Selfing is so very important. A subtlety is the culture of respect and positive regard for these students. They are very intuitive and appreciate the positive regard that permeates the intent and best hope that underpins the career pathways plan as realized here. The terminology does not communicate the superlative quality of this youth program or all of the merit that it deserves.

On a personal level, I can remember when graduating from high school cum laude, that my high school counselor called me into her office in my final year to inquire if I thought I might want to go to college. The way this portal operates sends the message: Of course you can go to college or to whatever next preparation best suits you. The inclusive culture and durability of this effort sends a message through action that is stereotype defying and powerful for the future of all communities.

Collateral benefits are captured from a young mentor for the students who choose this exposure... reflections resulting when asked to summarize her personal take on this experience.

I have gained a lot of experience working with youth, learned a variety of things while taking some of their workshops with them. I have met a ton of awesome ambassadors. Volunteering with the setup of the events, I've learned some project management skills, organizational skills and definitely leadership skills.

Other organizations offer similar benefit and have done so for decades. All are good villagers. I am happy to visit and review other good works for students.

Delia Armstrong Busby is the author of Absence Addiction Program, an award winning pathway to improved student achievement and retention. Absence Addiction Program is available on Amazon, Playster, Boko, Barnes and Noble and other popular sites.

Demystify why teens leave schools and understand a step by step approach to healthy school cultures. The contents of this book are based on practice and completion and outcomes many schools want but never achieve.
Email the author, Delia Armstrong Busby at  adventuresblissinc@gmail.com

Article Source:  Why It Matters