Latest news with #Solace
The Hindu
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Hindu
Photo exhibition showcases the life of social worker Sheeba Ameer
Sheeba Ameer says she loves dressing up. So when photographer G Harikrishnan asked her to tone down on her accessories for the photographs he was taking of hers, Sheeba felt a little unsure. 'In some of the photos, you will see that I have not even combed my hair,' laughs Sheeba. An exhibition of these photographs 'Wings of Desire' is on at the Durbar Hall Art Centre. In black and white and colour, the images chronicle Sheeba's extraordinary life with a touch of whimsy. But who is Sheeba Ameer? The founder of Solace, a voluntary organisation that supports children with long-term illnesses and their families, Sheeba is at the forefront of a campaign that vouches for curative and palliative care for children. Sheeba says life turned upside down when her daughter Niloufa was diagnosed with cancer. She spent 16 years taking care of her, oscillating between moments of utter despair, helplessness and fear. It was also when she started seeing life differently. 'We were able to provide Nilu the best treatment and facilities; but what about children whose families could not afford it?' She began helping other children with long-term illnesses and their families in small ways she could. 'Nilu and my son Nikhil encouraged me to continue my efforts and that led to the formation of Solace in 2007,' says Sheeba. From a homemaker, with two children, who knew 'nothing about the outside world', she grew to become a mother-figure for many. Niloufa passed away in 2013 and this strengthened Sheeba's resolve to help others going through the same kind of pain she did. 'I learnt that death is a certainty, but we can definitely help improve the quality of the children's lives for as long as they are alive,' Sheeba says. Talking about Niloufa still brings tears to her eyes, 'but it is this pain that drives me forward and strengthens me,' she adds. Solace, which started functioning as a small unit next to the leukemia ward of the Government Medical College in Thrissur, today has 5,600 children under its care. Registered as a charitable trust, Solace has three branches in Kerala and chapters in six states in the US. In her journey with Solace, Sheeba won awards for her outstanding work, including the Vanita Ratna (2011) instituted by the social justice department of the Government of Kerala and the Ramankutty Achan Award (2008). Between all her work commitments, Sheeba finds the time to nurture her literary interests too. She has authored books, which include poetry, literature and her own experiences working in palliative care. The exhibition, curated by the photographer Harikrishnan himself, is the result of four years of his interactions with Sheeba. While it showcases her personality as a compassionate social worker, it also captures her as a writer and dreamer. Some of the frames have a Sufi-esque quality to them, where Sheeba is portrayed as an ethereal being. The show is on till June 1 at Durbar Hall Art Centre.
Daily Mail
23-05-2025
- Politics
- Daily Mail
'Chainsaw massacre' that saw 110 trees chopped down in dead of night in city centre without telling anyone cost council at least £3.3m
A Labour council's decision to cut down more than 100 trees in the middle of a city centre has cost them at least £3.3m, a report has found. Plymouth City Council (PCC) sparked outrage when its group of 'monsters in the night' felled 110 trees on the city's Armada Way in March 2023 in what was described as a 'chainsaw massacre'. The move was part of a regeneration project but furious campaigners labelled it 'ecological vandalism'. And according to an independent review into the council's actions, the tree-felling 'still reverberates today'. The review led by a panel of independent experts through Solace, explored how decisions were made, how the project was managed, and how the council communicated with the public. The report added that 'significant tensions' remain within the council and between the groups and individuals involved. The 79-page report, which looks at the timeframe of the Armada Way plan, added: 'It is apparent that there are wounds still to be healed for those individuals most directly impacted. 'There are pockets of regret, remorse, guilt, blame and defiance.' In response, the council acknowledged weaknesses in the delivery of the project and said lessons would be learned. They also provided an estimate of the costs involved including legal costs, inflationary increases, staff time and the £130,000 spent on the review itself. The report said: 'Understandably, no quantification has been made of the cost to the City Council of reputational damage or the cost of re-building trust.' It added: 'More significantly, no assessment has been made of the costs to business and the lost revenue to the local economy from having the key artery of the city centre so impacted.' It said the £3.3m figure was 'the lower end of the likely cost' and said this showed the importance of major projects being 'adequately resourced with 'thorough political and senior officer oversight'. The council said the £3.3m figure was 'the lower end of the likely cost' and said this showed the importance of major projects being 'adequately resourced with 'thorough political and senior officer oversight' Armada Way started as a circa £12.7m project and is now projected at circa £30m. Campaigners brought a case to the High Court in March 2024 claiming that Plymouth City Council had acted unlawfully. The case was dismissed but Judge David Elvin KC was scathing of the council's conduct relating to the hearing and said the local authority's production of evidence had been 'highly unsatisfactory and revealed the lack of transparency in its procedures'. The report added: 'It is important that the council finds a means to rebuild trust, internally and externally, if it is going to maximise the benefit to its citizens that its strong regeneration programme should bring to the city.' PCC Chief Executive Tracey Lee said apologised and said the council 'came up short of where we needed to be'. She said: 'The issues highlighted in this report are not reflective of the vast majority of what we do. But they do show us where we need to improve. 'We are committed to being a learning organisation - one that reflects honestly, adapts, and grows from experience. That's not just important for us as a Council - it's vital for the people we serve. When we learn, we improve.. And when we improve, we deliver better outcomes for our communities.' Ms Lee emphasised that Plymouth City Council is not 'anti-tree', adding that there are 'over 35,000 new trees growing and establishing across the city'. She added: 'This has resulted in us being recognised by the Tree Cities of the World programme. But we are also ambitious for Plymouth. We want this city to grow - and that means making difficult decisions. 'This review was about how we made those decisions, and it's evident that we didn't always get it right. We are committed to learning from this experience and doing better.'
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Knowledgeable Producers and ‘Unprecedented' Government Incentives Turn Brazil Into a Burgeoning Co-Production Power
Despite boasting a huge internal market, Brazil long seemed an island of its own when it came to fostering international collaboration. Alas, these days are long gone, with a ramping number of co-productions inching the country closer and closer to major producing potencies such as the US and Europe. 'New international partners have been seeking us directly,' says Alex Medeiros, Director of Drama, Documentaries, and Films at Globoplay Originals, the streaming powerhouse behind Walter Salles's history-making, Oscar-winning 'I'm Still Here.' Globo is the biggest production force in Latin America, and currently has partnerships with Gaumont, Beta Film, Fremantle, and Disney, the latter a co-production deal for four films, including 'Na Linha do Fogo,' directed by Afonso Poyart ('Solace'). More from Variety Kleber Mendonça Filho on Why 'The Secret Agent' Is His First 'Political' Film, Casting 'Classic Movie Star' Wagner Moura 'Enzo' Review: Robin Campillo Honors the Late Laurent Cantet With a Film That Embodies the Best of Both Directors Fionnuala Halligan Appointed Red Sea Film Festival Director of International Programs Globo has a key advantage of producing over 11 thousand hours of novelas a year, a fast-moving audiovisual bootcamp that produces not only a large volume of talent in front and behind the camera, but also provides a wide range of experience in all areas of production. '[Novelas] are important for talent development in every single chain of production,' says Medeiros, emphasizing that Globo is actively 'open to partnerships and seeking models that can widen our reach, be it through co-productions, the sale of formats, licensing, or festival participation.' Luana Lobo, partner and co-CEO at Maria Farinha Filmes, says, 'The market understands that we have great stories and that language is not as strong a barrier as it was before.' In 2024, Maria Farinha Filmes expanded to the U.S., launching MFF & Co. in Los Angeles with a team led by Miura Kite, formerly at Participant Media. Earlier this year, MFF & Co. acquired a minority stake in Joanna Natasegara's London-based Violet Films. Lobo says she likes the 'ecosystem' MFF & Co has created, where 'separate entities collaborate and strategize in different territories while keeping separate slates.' The company is currently working on several high-profile projects, many facilitated by Kite's hefty talent roster. Projects include 'Pegasus,' written by Amit Cohen ('Valley of Tears') and Ron Leshem ('Euphoria'). Estela Renner, Chief Creative Officer, partner, and co-founder of MFF & CO, highlights the 'fantastic' work of the Ministry of Culture and Audiovisual Secretary Joelma Gonzaga. 'She is creating bilateral treaties with other countries and doing an incredible job on tax benefits, so everything is coming into place,' Renner says. Producer Fabiano Gullane, co-founder of Gullane ('Senna'), echoes the praise. 'We have a great set of incentives in a federal capacity through the Ministry of Culture, but also trickle down with regional investments, all offering key programs for national and international co-production,' he says. The Ministry of Culture, alongside the National Film Agency ANCINE, manages Brazil's primary source of public financing mechanism, the Audiovisual Sector Fund (ASF). Gullane believes having the pot, instead of relying solely on attracting co-productions through rebate systems, is a great advantage to collaborating with Brazil, as producers can count on increasingly healthy financing systems on the federal and regional levels. 'Regional incentives are common in Europe and are becoming incredibly important in Brazil, like São Paulo's Spcine and Rio de Janeiro's Rio Filme,' he points out, adding that, 'The greatest benefit of working with Brazil is our capacity to structure the Brazilian part of the project financially. Plus, we are prepared to make any kind of project you bring to the table. And, of course, our currency is very attractive to international investors as we are five to the dollar.' Gustavo Gontijo, Executive Producer for Development at O2 Filmes ('City of God,' 'Marighella'), adds that the state of São Paulo in particular is 'coming in strong, with more volumous cash rebates and other incentives that will prove attractive to foreign investment.' The veteran also highlights another key advantage of collaborating with Brazil: 'diverse locations that go from forests to beaches to deserts.' Minister of Culture Margareth Menezes says the government is investing an 'unprecedented value' of $39 million in 'an open call for international co-production dedicated to feature films, animation, and documentaries, presented by independent production companies in an international co-production model.' A representative for Ancine points out that the growth in international co-production 'reflects public promotion initiatives and the positioning of Brazilian production companies as relevant agents in the global market.' In 2024, the ASF share destined for international co-productions resulted in projects involving over 40 countries. One such project is Kleber Mendonça Filho's Cannes competition entry 'The Secret Agent,' a co-production between France's MK Productions, Holland's Lemming, and Germany's One Two Films. Commenting on the collaboration, Filho says co-producing is 'a model that works for both sides and a great experience.' Projeto Paradiso, Brazil's only philanthropic organization dedicated to supporting the country's audiovisual industry, will also come in strong at Cannes this year. The company is sponsoring a delegation for the first time to capitalize on Brazil being the Country of Honor at Marché du Film, an investment focused on internationalization and fostering possible international partnerships. 'Spotlighting Brazilian professionals on the biggest film festival in the world is a strategic move to create an ecosystem favorable to growth in our industry,' says Projeto Paradiso Program Director Rachel do Valle. 'Brazil offers a strategic combination of legal safety, financial incentives, infrastructure, and established talent,' ANCINE concludes. 'Co-production laws are consolidated, incentives are mature, and the internal market is robust enough to attract partners interested in scale. Cultural diversity, alongside technical competence, makes Brazil a globally competitive country.' Best of Variety New Movies Out Now in Theaters: What to See This Week Emmy Predictions: Talk/Scripted Variety Series - The Variety Categories Are Still a Mess; Netflix, Dropout, and 'Hot Ones' Stir Up Buzz Oscars Predictions 2026: 'Sinners' Becomes Early Contender Ahead of Cannes Film Festival
Yahoo
03-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
From sketches to stitches: SU's Solace Collective redefines fashion inclusivity to a new level
SYRACUSE, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — Fidgeting, shifting, needing to move — for many neurodivergent individuals, it's a daily struggle. But what if your clothes could stop this? For one Syracuse University startup, fashion isn't just about style — it's about inclusion. What started as an idea in Syracuse University's Intelligence++ class, aimed at creating inclusive products, soon evolved into a real-world business: Solace Collective, a clothing brand designed to help neurodivergent people manage their fidgeting. 'We wanted to set out and find a solution that reassures the wearer. Whether they want to fidget discreetly, it allows them to feel grounded and empowered so they can go through their day,' said Aiden Turner, CFO of Solace Collective and SU student. Turner says that a lot of clothes on the market have itchy tags, seams, and collars that can impact how a neurodivergent person feels and goes throughout their day. Solace Collective aims to fill that gap in the market. Not only are they trying to bring sensory comfort, but they're helping those find reassurance in themselves. After all, clothes go with you all day, so feeling confident in what you're wearing can go a long way. In recent years, fidget toys have been all the rage. But, according to Turner, not only can they be distracting to others, due to social media trends, they are also marketed to everyone and do not meet the universal needs of all neurodivergent people. That's why, when Solace Collective was founded, Carolyne Fernandes, SU senior and co-founder, was excited to see the impact it would have — she knows. 'For me, having a solution where I can regulate my daily life without it being a distraction or unprofessional is… I mean, it's life-changing for me,' she said. Fernandes is neurodivergent, having OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and autism. She says a lot of products on the market are pseudo solutions and place all neurodivergent people under one solution. Turner agreed, acknowledging the vast needs of the neurodivergent community. 'We understand it's not one size fits all and there's a vast range of spectrum needs, and we are going to do our best to continue developing products and continue developing those needs as we can,' said Turner. Solace Collective currently has four prototypes. They plan to keep expanding to meet the needs of the community. 'We're trying to address that…by having some things that are very weighted and some things that are very light, to be able to compromise for all of the different neurodivergent people,' Fernandes said when talking about some of her goals to expand the products Solace. When asked what she wished her younger self had known, Fernandes paused, considering the weight of the question. She reflected on her 22 years of living, considering the totality of both her successes and challenges. 'I would tell my younger self, no matter who I am and the conditions I have, I need to do what I need to do to regulate myself on a daily basis,' she said. 'And if I can't find those things, then make those things.' That's exactly what she did. Her creativity has followed her throughout her life. Combined with her passion for solving these issues, it led to the creation of the Solace Collective. 'I've always wanted to be creative and solve these problems,' she said. 'Putting myself in that sweatshirt as a child, understanding that this is something that's going to make you proud of who you are, but also give you the solutions you need for your daily life.' Throughout the school year, the team has gone above and beyond—not only putting in hard work to meet their goals but also putting their hearts into it. 'Putting all our passions and skills together has been amazing,' said Turner. 'We have been able to accomplish some great things, and everybody has their talent. We've been able to come together and create a truly meaningful brand.' That's what makes the approaching end of the school year bittersweet. Most of the team members are seniors and will be leaving to start their careers. However, that roadblock isn't stopping the team from continuing to do what they love: improving lives. Turner told NewsChannel 9 that starting next year, the team plans to launch a research division, led by rising senior Bella Tabak. The division will focus on gathering more data on people who are neurodivergent to help create new prototypes that address different needs. As Turner and Fernandez walk across the stage to receive their diplomas on May 11, they won't be looking back on what they accomplished—they'll be looking ahead. 'We are not leaving it behind. We are going to take it with us and bring it out into the world,' said Turner. Turner is confident that because they were able to accomplish so much in just a year, the momentum will continue after graduation. Fernandez agrees. 'I can't not see this company taking off and really blowing up,' she said. 'So… for me at least, this is going to be my future.' Solace Collective plans to launch their website in June. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
USA Today
24-04-2025
- Health
- USA Today
6 must-visit spas in Orlando to hit after the theme parks
Advertisement The Himalayan Salt Room at the Waldorf Astoria Spa in Orlando is the ultimate way to relax – Photo courtesy of Waldorf Astoria Orlando A trip to Orlando's theme parks always promises an action-packed vacation — the kind of vacation that requires a vacation. Instead, plan some relaxation time after the parks at one of the must-visit spas in Orlando. Think soothing tired feet, easing aching muscles, and leaving the noise, mouse ears, lines, and crowds behind. These six Orlando resort spas offer treatments and experiences that will leave you feeling rested and rejuvenated after a day — or days — of doing all the things. Orlando spa resorts for post-theme park bliss There's no shortage of resort spas that offer a full-service experience for guests, even if you aren't staying on property. Waldorf Astoria Spa The Waldorf Astoria Spa in Orlando features an amazing array of treatments – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Located within the Walt Disney World Resort, the Waldorf Astoria Orlando offers a sophisticated experience in its 24,000-square-foot spa. The facility features 22 treatment rooms, a whirlpool, steam room, and sauna, as well as a tranquility lounge with zero-gravity loungers. The Waldorf Astoria Spa is also the first spa in the state of Florida (and one of only seven in the U.S.) to have its own Himalayan Salt Room. Himalayan salt therapy, also known as halotherapy, can be used to treat a variety of ailments, including asthma, allergies, colds, ear infections, and even jet lag. The spa's salt therapy includes dry salt scrubs to treat conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis. The Salt Solace Room offers a unique experience that combines inhalation therapy with a massage, resulting in a full-body reset. In addition to the spa's included amenities, spa guests can enjoy the resort's fitness center and outdoor pool on the day of their treatment. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando Spas in Orlando, including at the Four Seasons Resort, are made for relaxing and rejuvenating – Photo courtesy of The Four Seasons Orlando The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers private outdoor relaxation spaces and access to an adults-only pool. The 18 treatment rooms, including two couples' spaces, provide a range of services, from facials and exfoliating treatments to bodywork and massage. Advertisement Try the signature Honey Healing Treatment, which uses honey from the resort's bees to provide an antimicrobial, immune-boosting massage that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and energized. This is one of the only spas in the region to offer IV drips and peptide therapy, providing targeted results such as detoxification, improved joint health, and restored energy. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando, Grande Lakes The pool at the Ritz-Carlton Spa Orlando will melt all the theme park stress away – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando At 40,000 square feet, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Grande Lakes, is one of the largest in the region. With an outdoor lap pool, spa cafe, fitness center, and full salon, this Orlando resort spa is ideal for post-park relaxation. The comprehensive menu of treatments includes massage, facials, and bodywork, as well as wellness experiences such as the energy balancing treatment and sound therapy, which utilizes Tibetan singing bowls. Signature therapies incorporate CBD, local Florida ingredients, and herbs from the resort's organic garden. The ultimate treatment for melting stress and restoring calm is the spa's Grande Indulgence Massage, which includes a full body massage, scalp treatment, hot stone enhancements, and keratin gloves for the hands and feet. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Mandara Spa in Orlando feels like a Balinese temple – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Mandara Spa at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin is a Balinese-inspired spa that feels worlds away from its location inside the bustling hotel. Features include a tea garden, a sitting room decorated in Balinese style, and a meditation garden with a signature Meru temple. We recommend the Fire and Ice Massage, which incorporates hot stone massage using cool gels and warm paraffin, all designed to detoxify the body and soothe aching muscles. For a treatment inspired by the local landscape, try the Florida Orange Blossom Body Polish, an antioxidant-rich body polish crafted with sweet Florida oranges. This Orlando spa also offers Normatec Leg Recovery, a leg treatment that increases circulation and relieves leg soreness. It's a quick and reasonably priced way to boost recovery and ease sore muscles from a day spent on your feet. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. The Spa at The Alfond Inn The Spa at Alfond Inn is a destination for its treatments and tranquility – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Located just north of Orlando in Winter Park, The Spa at The Alfond Inn is one of the region's most popular destinations. You could spend an entire day there. The spa features seven treatment rooms, a sauna, a steam room, experiential showers, a tranquility room, an outdoor pool with private cabanas, and a spa cafe. For the ultimate in relaxation, the Stress, Sleep, and Pain CBD Ritual combines exfoliation, CBD-infused massage, and a hydrating body wrap to promote rest and recovery. Book Now When you check rates and book independently reviewed hotels through our site, we may earn a small commission. Conrad Spa at Conrad Orlando Conrad Spa in Orlando features side-by-side soaking tubs and couples' treatments – Photo courtesy of Visit Orlando Conrad Orlando is the only luxury hotel located within the 1,100-acre Evermore development, part of the Walt Disney World Resort. Perched above a water garden inspired by Florida's natural springs and local fauna, Conrad Spa has an expansive outdoor space that includes a water garden, vitality pool, relaxation area, and hydrotherapy tubs. Inside, the spa boasts 11 treatment rooms, including two specifically designed for couples. Among the many body, facial, and massage treatments, one treatment sure to ease your weary bones is the Blanket of Calm massage. The 80-minute body, face, and scalp massage utilizes sound therapy and breathwork to release tension and restore the body's inner peace. For a fully immersive experience, stay overnight in one of the hotel's wellness guest rooms, which have direct access to the spa garden and hydrotherapy pools. Spa guests not staying at the resort receive complimentary valet parking on the day of their treatment, in addition to access to the spa pools and amenities.
