Latest news with #Alara
The Advertiser
7 days ago
- General
- The Advertiser
'She was a normal, healthy kid': Alara's 'heartbreaking' battle with rare disease
Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.' Kerri Taylor smiles when she talks of her granddaughter, Alara. Alara Kelly, age five, loves blowing bubbles and watching Bluey and Peppa Pig, according to Kerri, as well as spending time with her mother and older sister. "She's always happy, always smiling," Kerri said. "It's impossible to get the smile off her face." Alara, from Marulan in the NSW southern highlands, was diagnosed with Batten Disease in 2024 - an extremely rare neurodegenerative disorder with no known cure. The fatal disease primarily affects the nervous system, resulting in progressive cognitive decline, seizures, and loss of physical function over time. The expected lifespan for Alara's strain of the disease is between 10 and 16 years. Alara's mother, Haylei Taylor, says watching the progression in her daughter has been heartbreaking. "She was a normal, healthy kid before, developing like other kids," Haylei said. "But as the disease has advanced, she's stopped and gone back the other way." A year after the diagnosis, Alara is non-verbal, incontinent, and wheelchair-bound, and must consume food through a nasogastric tube to her stomach. She is unable to play, read, write, or bear her own weight. The speed of the disease's progression has been a shock to her family, but Alara is unaware of her condition due to the cognitive effects - her mind is now similar to that of an 18-month-old, according to her mother. "That's the only good thing about it - she has no clue that it's happening," Haylei said. "But when family comes and sees her, there's such a huge difference from one visit to the next." Haylei says Alara's 12-year-old sister, Mackenzie, has found the process especially difficult. Alongside her partner, Justin Sams, Haylei has done everything to ensure Alara is as comfortable as possible, with the support of Kerri and Alara's father Darcy Kelly. Already they have secured a wheelchair and specialised car seat from the NDIS, but other essential equipment, like a shower commode, neck support, hoist, and wheeled walker, has all been loaned from the community, or need to be hired through the NDIS. A fundraiser event, called Alara's Batten Ball, will be held at the Veolia Arena on Saturday, August 23 to help raise money for vital medical treatments and support, as well as spread awareness of the disease and Alara's story. The ball will include a silent auction, raffle prizes, and live music from local musician Jamie Agius. Haylei says the support of family, friends, colleagues, and the broader community has been overwhelming so far. The fundraiser was initially intended to raise money for a bigger car to fit Alara's wheelchair, but the generous donation of a Kia Carnival from the MacDougall Foundation and Sleapy's Foundation has allowed the family to focus on securing other crucial equipment. Haylei says the act of generosity came as an enormous shock. "I honestly can't thank them enough," she said. The Crescent School, where Alara is enrolled, has also been "amazing" in providing the necessary support, according to both Haylei and Kerri. Haylei also pays tribute to her partner Justin, who has been by her side throughout the difficult journey. "None of this would've been possible without him," she said. Batten Disease is caused by a genetic mutation that allows cellular waste to build up in the brain. There are 13 known strains of the disorder, all with varying symptoms. Alara's strain, called CLN6, is exceedingly rare - she is one of only two people who have been diagnosed in Australia, and only around 125 cases have been recorded worldwide. In 2018, a revolutionary enzyme-replacement treatment for another more common strain - CLN2 - was approved in Australia, which slows the progression of the disease. While no effective treatment for CLN6 has yet been found in Australia, Haylei and Kerri are hopeful that research for a cure continues. But for now, the family is doing what they can to enjoy their time with Alara while giving her the support she needs. The Taylors make regular trips from Marulan to Sydney for specialist care and to Goulburn Base Hospital whenever Alara accidentally pulls her nasogastric tube out - a common occurrence, according to her grandmother. Kerri says the thought of losing her granddaughter is devastating. "It's really hard to see her and know we might not have her around soon," she said "But while she's here, we'll do what we can to make her comfortable." Alara's Batten Ball fundraiser will begin at 5pm on Saturday, August 23 at Veolia Arena. If you would like to donate to help support Alara and her family, please find the online GoFundMe page 'Alara's Batten Battle.'
Business of Fashion
16-05-2025
- Business
- Business of Fashion
Redefining 'Made in Africa'
The author has shared a Podcast. You will need to accept and consent to the use of cookies and similar technologies by our third-party partners (including: YouTube, Instagram or Twitter), in order to view embedded content in this article and others you may visit in future. Africa is experiencing an exciting shift, creatively and commercially, with growing global attention on its rapidly expanding middle-class population. Yet, local fashion entrepreneurs must navigate unique operational challenges and misconceptions about the quality and reputation of 'Made in Africa.' Pink Mango's Maryse Mbonyumutwa entered apparel manufacturing in Rwanda to address both economic and social sustainability. '[Africa] is sustainable by nature, as we've not fully industrialised yet,' he says. Laduma Ngxokolo, founder of South African luxury knitwear brand MaXhosa Africa, drew inspiration from his culture's traditional designs: 'How do we take local traditional aesthetics and modernise them?' he asked. To celebrate African creativity, Reni Folawiyo founded the concept store Alara in Nigeria. 'I started Alara from a very emotional place to elevate African creators, both on the continent and the diaspora,' Folawiyo says. 'The idea of elevating but also empowering remains in everything we do.' On this episode of The BoF Podcast, an illuminating conversation unfolds on stage at BoF CROSSROADS 2025, where Mbonyumutwa, Ngxokolo and Folawiyo, alongside Sudanese-British writer Rozan Ahmed, discussed Africa's unique contributions to fashion, the opportunities in sustainable manufacturing, and how they are redefining what it means to produce, create and sell in Africa. Key Insights: Africa's potential lies in sustainable manufacturing and social responsibility. Mbonyumutwa explains, 'Africa is here to offer social sustainability ... to make sure that now when we talk about environmental sustainability and social sustainability they are aligned.' Local retail can powerfully celebrate and elevate global African creativity. Folawiyo's vision for Alara was clear. 'I started Alara in a very emotional place. I wanted to celebrate African creators, both on the continent and in the diaspora. I wanted to elevate their work, because I hadn't seen it done anywhere else,' she says. 'It was a self-empowerment, self-determination moment and I wanted it to be celebratory.' 'Made in Africa' must represent prestige, not affordability. Ngxokolo says, 'It's not cheap, yet there's a perception that anything that is made in Africa should be reasonably priced or cheap. We put in our heart and souls into our work and present it to the world so that it sits next to their level of brands.' Additional Resources:
Washington Post
06-02-2025
- Business
- Washington Post
4 D.C. restaurant openings we're excited about this February
Shake off that bitter cold by warming up to some of the ambitious new arrivals joining the D.C. dining scene this month. Winter blues have you wishing you were sipping Mediterranean-style margaritas at sunset in Santorini? Seasoned restaurateur Hakan Ilhan says he's got just the thing. His new restaurant Alara is designed to transport locals to a 'very rustic, beachy Mediterranean town' — albeit one with a Georgetown address. 'If the feel of the space, with the food and ambiance, can carry you away from your everyday life, we've achieved our mission,' Ilhan says. The proprietor of popular D.C. restaurants Brasserie Liberté, Ottoman Taverna, Il Piatto and others says his latest project aims to honor the culture and hospitality of Turkey, Greece and the Levant region. The decor is meant to conjure memories of fun-filled vacations along the Aegean. The opening menu, which covers lunch, dinner, dessert, late-night snacks and weekend brunch, boasts an array of earthy dips, grilled meats, roasted vegetables and seafood. Core offerings include assorted mezze (hummus, dolmades, moussaka), kebabs (grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef, Mediterranean-style meatballs), crispy flatbreads (sujuk sausage, ground beef, oregano-spiked mozzarella), seafood (spiced butter-drenched shrimp, whole branzino, roasted salmon), mains (shakshuka, braised lamb shank over Ottoman rice, house cheeseburger with spiced cornichon aioli) and housemade sweets (baklava, künefe, rice pudding). Everything is available à la carte. But Ilhan has also carved out a four-course, prix fixe tour ($54.95 per person) that touches on the major elements. There are also mezze bundles (trio of dips or a six-item platter) and a mixed grill ($69.95) designed to feed two or more people. Ilhan is confident his latest addition will call to world travelers, visiting tourists and adventurous Georgetown University students. 'We think that we are in the right place and with the right cuisine.' 1303 Wisconsin Ave. NW. Entrées, $34.95 to $54.95. Winter blues have you wishing you were sipping Mediterranean-style margaritas at sunset in Santorini? Seasoned restaurateur Hakan Ilhan says he's got just the thing. His new restaurant Alara is designed to transport locals to a 'very rustic, beachy Mediterranean town' — albeit one with a Georgetown address. 'If the feel of the space, with the food and ambiance, can carry you away from your everyday life, we've achieved our mission,' Ilhan says. The proprietor of popular D.C. restaurants Brasserie Liberté, Ottoman Taverna, Il Piatto and others says his latest project aims to honor the culture and hospitality of Turkey, Greece and the Levant region. The decor is meant to conjure memories of fun-filled vacations along the Aegean. The opening menu, which covers lunch, dinner, dessert, late-night snacks and weekend brunch, boasts an array of earthy dips, grilled meats, roasted vegetables and seafood. Core offerings include assorted mezze (hummus, dolmades, moussaka), kebabs (grilled chicken, seasoned ground beef, Mediterranean-style meatballs), crispy flatbreads (sujuk sausage, ground beef, oregano-spiked mozzarella), seafood (spiced butter-drenched shrimp, whole branzino, roasted salmon), mains (shakshuka, braised lamb shank over Ottoman rice, house cheeseburger with spiced cornichon aioli) and housemade sweets (baklava, künefe, rice pudding). Everything is available à la carte. But Ilhan has also carved out a four-course, prix fixe tour ($54.95 per person) that touches on the major elements. There are also mezze bundles (trio of dips or a six-item platter) and a mixed grill ($69.95) designed to feed two or more people. Ilhan is confident his latest addition will call to world travelers, visiting tourists and adventurous Georgetown University students. 'We think that we are in the right place and with the right cuisine.' 1303 Wisconsin Ave. NW. Entrées, $34.95 to $54.95. Matt Price's online followers know him as social media star Mr. Make It Happen. And now the self-taught chef turned aspiring restaurateur is taking his career to the next level by welcoming local diners to his new Columbia Heights restaurant, Fraiche. 'I'm one of those people that just like to look for the next challenge. And there's nothing more challenging than the restaurant industry,' the Richmond native says of his latest venture, adding that he's excited to show the world he's more than 'just a YouTube chef.' Having Fraiche open in early February, Price says, will mark a major milestone in his unconventional life. A former Capital One employee who has never worked in a restaurant before, Price says the online cooking and recipe sharing he delved into during the pandemic is now his full-time hustle. In addition to engaging with 1 million food-obsessed fans on Instagram, Price has spent the past few years doing pop-up dinners across the country, including here in the DMV. 'We sold out every event that I've done. And D.C. has always shown a whole lot of support,' he says, citing a recent appearance at the members-only City Club of Washington. He also dipped his toe in the hospitality world this past fall by lending a hand with the launch of Southern cooking-centric Kitchen Cray in Sandy Springs, Georgia. 'I helped revamp the menu,' Price says, adding that he also did some staff training to help get his friend's business off the ground. That experience served as good practice for putting his own stamp on the former home of Creole on 14th. His opening menu draws inspiration from classic French, Creole, Cajun and Caribbean cooking, weaving in personal favorites he's happened across while traveling. Those scouting trips are what Price says prompted him to make garlic noodles, riff on oxtail meatballs and make other mouthwatering road meals his own. He's confident D.C. diners will dig his sherry-laced she-crab soup, steak frites finished with spiced butter, and fried Southern grits paired with caviar. 'I don't want to put boundaries on anything,' he says of his culinary philosophy. 3345 14th St. NW. Entrées, $28 to $55. Matt Price's online followers know him as social media star Mr. Make It Happen. And now the self-taught chef turned aspiring restaurateur is taking his career to the next level by welcoming local diners to his new Columbia Heights restaurant, Fraiche. 'I'm one of those people that just like to look for the next challenge. And there's nothing more challenging than the restaurant industry,' the Richmond native says of his latest venture, adding that he's excited to show the world he's more than 'just a YouTube chef.' Having Fraiche open in early February, Price says, will mark a major milestone in his unconventional life. A former Capital One employee who has never worked in a restaurant before, Price says the online cooking and recipe sharing he delved into during the pandemic is now his full-time hustle. In addition to engaging with 1 million food-obsessed fans on Instagram, Price has spent the past few years doing pop-up dinners across the country, including here in the DMV. 'We sold out every event that I've done. And D.C. has always shown a whole lot of support,' he says, citing a recent appearance at the members-only City Club of Washington. He also dipped his toe in the hospitality world this past fall by lending a hand with the launch of Southern cooking-centric Kitchen Cray in Sandy Springs, Georgia. 'I helped revamp the menu,' Price says, adding that he also did some staff training to help get his friend's business off the ground. That experience served as good practice for putting his own stamp on the former home of Creole on 14th. His opening menu draws inspiration from classic French, Creole, Cajun and Caribbean cooking, weaving in personal favorites he's happened across while traveling. Those scouting trips are what Price says prompted him to make garlic noodles, riff on oxtail meatballs and make other mouthwatering road meals his own. He's confident D.C. diners will dig his sherry-laced she-crab soup, steak frites finished with spiced butter, and fried Southern grits paired with caviar. 'I don't want to put boundaries on anything,' he says of his culinary philosophy. 3345 14th St. NW. Entrées, $28 to $55. 'There's a huge population of West Africans here, whether it be from Nigeria, Ghana or Togo. And I love D.C. for that,' Top Chef alum (Season 16) turned Food Network host Eric Adjepong says of his adopted home. That all-inclusive nature, along with his passion to showcase African cooking, is why Adjepong is energized about making a deeply personal statement along 14th Street NW with Elmina. 'There's a lot of great restaurants that are speaking to the food of the region … and it's about d--- time,' he says of the Afro-Caribbean cooking revolution he helped stoke as part of the opening team at critically acclaimed Kith and Kin. Adjepong aims to expand that conversation on Feb. 18 when he unveils the meticulously appointed, three-story space — featuring thematic rooms (tobacco and sugar cane color the twin bars, while wood, cotton and indigo inform the dining areas) — where he'll be edutaining diners one multicourse meal at a time. Fine dining is 'not necessarily a Eurocentric sort of idea … and I really want to hammer that home,' he says while walking The Post through his Ghanian menu. The core tasting menu is built around five courses, with four choices per round (20 options total). And Adjepong promises a 'couple of surprises in between.' He was also coy about one 'cliff-hanger' dish but insists the wait will be worth it. 'We're going to be offering a really traditional dish as a surprise with a nice ceremony around it,' he says. His eyes light up as he runs through other featured items, including a signature jollof rice bolstered by confit duck legs, breasts and eggs — 'to push the boundaries of what people think jollof rice could be.' Elmina will also serve whole grilled lobster flanked by a sumptuous fisherman's stew, and an octopus, shrimp and palm nut stew. The bar menu lists Ghanian-style kebabs as well as a smash burger crowned with caramelized onion jam sporting hints of lemon, ginger, turmeric and curry. Chase it all with worldly cocktails mixed with palm wine, soursop, mango, passion fruit and malted barley. 'I wanted to bring it to a level that felt sexy,' Adjepong says of the fully immersive experience. 2208 14th St. NW. $105-per-person five-course tasting menu. 'There's a huge population of West Africans here, whether it be from Nigeria, Ghana or Togo. And I love D.C. for that,' Top Chef alum (Season 16) turned Food Network host Eric Adjepong says of his adopted home. That all-inclusive nature, along with his passion to showcase African cooking, is why Adjepong is energized about making a deeply personal statement along 14th Street NW with Elmina. 'There's a lot of great restaurants that are speaking to the food of the region … and it's about d--- time,' he says of the Afro-Caribbean cooking revolution he helped stoke as part of the opening team at critically acclaimed Kith and Kin. Adjepong aims to expand that conversation on Feb. 18 when he unveils the meticulously appointed, three-story space — featuring thematic rooms (tobacco and sugar cane color the twin bars, while wood, cotton and indigo inform the dining areas) — where he'll be edutaining diners one multicourse meal at a time. Fine dining is 'not necessarily a Eurocentric sort of idea … and I really want to hammer that home,' he says while walking The Post through his Ghanian menu. The core tasting menu is built around five courses, with four choices per round (20 options total). And Adjepong promises a 'couple of surprises in between.' He was also coy about one 'cliff-hanger' dish but insists the wait will be worth it. 'We're going to be offering a really traditional dish as a surprise with a nice ceremony around it,' he says. His eyes light up as he runs through other featured items, including a signature jollof rice bolstered by confit duck legs, breasts and eggs — 'to push the boundaries of what people think jollof rice could be.' Elmina will also serve whole grilled lobster flanked by a sumptuous fisherman's stew, and an octopus, shrimp and palm nut stew. The bar menu lists Ghanian-style kebabs as well as a smash burger crowned with caramelized onion jam sporting hints of lemon, ginger, turmeric and curry. Chase it all with worldly cocktails mixed with palm wine, soursop, mango, passion fruit and malted barley. 'I wanted to bring it to a level that felt sexy,' Adjepong says of the fully immersive experience. 2208 14th St. NW. $105-per-person five-course tasting menu. Boston-based fast-casual chain Life Alive Organic Cafe has arrived in D.C., planting its first vegetable-forward kitchen and juice bar outside of Massachusetts in the West End. The burgeoning chain, which was founded in 2004, is the latest power play by hospitality mogul Ron Shaich — a serial investor who's nurtured successful brands dating back to the first Reagan administration, a roster that includes trendy cafes Au Bon Pain, Panera Bread, Cava and Tatte. The plan for branching out into the nation's capital centers on leaning into plant-based cooking and 'positive eating.' The company throws around lots of inspirational messaging. 'Chef-crafted,' 'responsibly sourced,' 'personal and planetary wellness,' and 'energized, uplifted and fully alive' are just some of the taglines sprinkled throughout its sunny missives. The message resonated with James Beard Award-winning local chef Rob Rubba, of Oyster Oyster fame. Rubba agreed to team up with Life Alive chef Dylan Mendelsohn on a limited-edition ramen that Mendelsohn says has a 'really fortified mushroom miso broth' featuring chili garlic oyster mushrooms, hon shimeji mushrooms, enoki mushrooms and sugar kelp from Maine. Rubba says that they workshopped the dish, dubbed Soil & Sea Ramen ($14.95) and available until Feb. 28, for a few months and that he's excited for local diners to try it. Life Alive's opening menu also includes signature grain bowls, seasonally inspired salads, noodle dishes, falafel wraps, fruit smoothies and gourmet coffee. 2301 M. St. NW. Entrées, $13.50 to $14.95. Boston-based fast-casual chain Life Alive Organic Cafe has arrived in D.C., planting its first vegetable-forward kitchen and juice bar outside of Massachusetts in the West End. The burgeoning chain, which was founded in 2004, is the latest power play by hospitality mogul Ron Shaich — a serial investor who's nurtured successful brands dating back to the first Reagan administration, a roster that includes trendy cafes Au Bon Pain, Panera Bread, Cava and Tatte. The plan for branching out into the nation's capital centers on leaning into plant-based cooking and 'positive eating.' The company throws around lots of inspirational messaging. 'Chef-crafted,' 'responsibly sourced,' 'personal and planetary wellness,' and 'energized, uplifted and fully alive' are just some of the taglines sprinkled throughout its sunny missives. The message resonated with James Beard Award-winning local chef Rob Rubba, of Oyster Oyster fame. Rubba agreed to team up with Life Alive chef Dylan Mendelsohn on a limited-edition ramen that Mendelsohn says has a 'really fortified mushroom miso broth' featuring chili garlic oyster mushrooms, hon shimeji mushrooms, enoki mushrooms and sugar kelp from Maine. Rubba says that they workshopped the dish, dubbed Soil & Sea Ramen ($14.95) and available until Feb. 28, for a few months and that he's excited for local diners to try it. Life Alive's opening menu also includes signature grain bowls, seasonally inspired salads, noodle dishes, falafel wraps, fruit smoothies and gourmet coffee. 2301 M. St. NW. Entrées, $13.50 to $14.95.
Zawya
31-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
New copper deposits unearthed in Block 8 in Oman's North Al Batinah Governorate
MUSCAT - A UK-based mining exploration firm says it has uncovered evidence of new copper mineralization in Block 8 in North Al Batinah Governorate. This signaling a potentially significant deposit is set to further augment Oman's burgeoning role as a producer and exporter of this strategically important commodity. London-listed Power Metal Resources PLC said in a filing on Thursday that its majority-held subsidiary, Power Arabia Ltd, made the find as part of the Awtad Project, located within the 498 km2 concession extending some 130km north of Muscat City. The partnership of Australian exploration firm Alara Resources Ltd and Awtad Copper LLC of the Sultanate of Oman currently holds concession rights to the Block. However, in September last year, Power Metal signed a provisional agreement with the JV to acquire a 12.5 per stake in the Awtad Copper project. 'We're pleased to share an update on our ongoing exploration at Block 8 in Oman, where our majority-held subsidiary Power Arabia is making meaningful strides. Recent fieldwork has identified new copper mineralisation, reinforcing the project's potential as a key focus for Power Metal Resources,' the UK firm noted in a post on Thursday. Sean Wade, CEO of Power Metal Resources plc, commented: 'We continue to explore multiple avenues for a long-term funding solution for the Power Arabia business and look forward to updating shareholders in due course." Exploration work carried out by Power Arabia's technical team over the course of the last quarter of 2024 has led to two significant copper results: 4.46 per cent copper from an outcrop at the Al Maidar prospect, and 1.75 per cent copper from a malachite float sample in a previously unexplored area. 'The Company considers that the exploration work conducted to date on Block 8 has progressed extremely well in a short space of time, with the early identification of significant new copper mineralisation in the southern part of the concession. The technical team is building an excellent understanding of the geology and controls to mineralisation, and with the support to date of five Omani graduate geologists, Power Arabia is building a strong in-country team,' the company further noted. For Australia's Alara Resources, which has interests in several copper mining projects in Oman, the latest find consolidates its investment portfolio in the Sultanate. 'It is truly exciting to see new locations of copper mineralisation being discovered, further enhancing confidence in the previously identified Al Mansur prospect in the Block. Alara is committed to investing further by intensifying exploration activities in the block and looks forward to continuing our cooperation with Power Metals as they advance this promising endeavour," Atmavireshwar Sthapak, Alara's Managing Director, added. Significantly, the announcement comes amid a notable uptick in copper mining exploration, production, and export activities in Oman. Leading players in this key sector include Minerals Development Oman (MDO), the mining investment arm of Oman Investment Authority (OIA); MDO subsidiaries Mawarid Mining and Mazoon Mining; Oman Mining Company; Green Tech Mining Services; and Al Hadeetha Resources, among others. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
30-01-2025
- Business
- Observer
New copper deposits unearthed in Block 8 in North Al Batinah Governorate
MUSCAT: A UK-based mining exploration firm says it has uncovered evidence of new copper mineralization in Block 8 in North Al Batinah Governorate. This signaling a potentially significant deposit is set to further augment Oman's burgeoning role as a producer and exporter of this strategically important commodity. London-listed Power Metal Resources PLC said in a filing on Thursday that its majority-held subsidiary, Power Arabia Ltd, made the find as part of the Awtad Project, located within the 498 km2 concession extending some 130km north of Muscat City. The partnership of Australian exploration firm Alara Resources Ltd and Awtad Copper LLC of the Sultanate of Oman currently holds concession rights to the Block. However, in September last year, Power Metal signed a provisional agreement with the JV to acquire a 12.5 per stake in the Awtad Copper project. 'We're pleased to share an update on our ongoing exploration at Block 8 in Oman, where our majority-held subsidiary Power Arabia is making meaningful strides. Recent fieldwork has identified new copper mineralisation, reinforcing the project's potential as a key focus for Power Metal Resources,' the UK firm noted in a post on Thursday. Sean Wade, CEO of Power Metal Resources plc, commented: 'We continue to explore multiple avenues for a long-term funding solution for the Power Arabia business and look forward to updating shareholders in due course." Exploration work carried out by Power Arabia's technical team over the course of the last quarter of 2024 has led to two significant copper results: 4.46 per cent copper from an outcrop at the Al Maidar prospect, and 1.75 per cent copper from a malachite float sample in a previously unexplored area. 'The Company considers that the exploration work conducted to date on Block 8 has progressed extremely well in a short space of time, with the early identification of significant new copper mineralisation in the southern part of the concession. The technical team is building an excellent understanding of the geology and controls to mineralisation, and with the support to date of five Omani graduate geologists, Power Arabia is building a strong in-country team,' the company further noted. For Australia's Alara Resources, which has interests in several copper mining projects in Oman, the latest find consolidates its investment portfolio in the Sultanate. 'It is truly exciting to see new locations of copper mineralisation being discovered, further enhancing confidence in the previously identified Al Mansur prospect in the Block. Alara is committed to investing further by intensifying exploration activities in the block and looks forward to continuing our cooperation with Power Metals as they advance this promising endeavour," Atmavireshwar Sthapak, Alara's Managing Director, added. Significantly, the announcement comes amid a notable uptick in copper mining exploration, production, and export activities in Oman. Leading players in this key sector include Minerals Development Oman (MDO), the mining investment arm of Oman Investment Authority (OIA); MDO subsidiaries Mawarid Mining and Mazoon Mining; Oman Mining Company; Green Tech Mining Services; and Al Hadeetha Resources, among others.
