East West Players presents the world premiere of "Unbroken Blossoms" by Philip W. Chung, directed by Jeff Liu, from June 27 to July 21 at the David Henry Hwang Theater, 120 N. Judge John Aiso St. in Little Tokyo.</p> An idealistic family man and a cynical, aspiring filmmaker are hired as the Chinese American consultants for "Broken Blossoms," Hollywood's first onscreen interracial love story... between a white actress and a white actor in yellowface makeup. If the circumstances weren't already questionable enough, the consultants must contend with the outsized ego of the film's director, D.W. Griffith, who is attempting to belie criticisms of racism after the release of his controversial film "The Birth of a Nation."</p> Chung's play is a historical reimagining of the making of a boundary-breaking Hollywood classic that shines a light on the collateral damage in the search for "authentic" representation, and asks what price we pay for our art.</p> Originally presented in 2015 by Visual Communications in partnership with East West Players.</p> Cast: Gavin Kawin Lee, Ron Song, Arye Gross, Alexandra Hellquist, Conlan Ledwith, Paul Dateh, Valerie Rose Lohman, T Aldridge.</p> Credits: Shinshin Yuder Tsai, intimacy director; Cesar Cipriano, fight choreographer; Mina Kinukawa, scenic designer; Sam Clevenger, projection designer; Michael O'Hara, properties designer; Jaymee Ngernwichit, costume designer; Wes Charles Chew, lighting designer; Kelly Rodriguez, assistant lighting designer; Cinthia Nava, sound designer; Brandon Hong Cheng, stage manager; Irene DH Lee, assistant stage manager.</p> Previews: Thursday, June 27, to Saturday, June 29, at 8 p.m. Opening night: Sunday, June 30, at 5 p.m.</p> Regular shows:</p> Friday, July 5, at 8 p.m. (pre-show performance by Justine Rafael and David Galvan)</p> Saturday, July 6, at 2 and 8 p.m. Sunday, July 7, at 5 p.m. (followed by AAPI playwrights panel)</p> Monday, July 8, at 8 p.m. (pay-what-you-can)</p> Friday, July 12, at 8 p.m. (followed by AAPI pioneer filmmakers panel)</p> Saturday, July 13, at 2 p.m. (masked matinee performance) and 8 p.m.</p> Sunday, July 14, at 5 p.m. ("Jury Duty" cast and crew reunion in honor of Ron Song);</p> Monday, July 15, at 8 p.m. Friday, July 19, at 8 p.m. (post-show artist talkback) </p> Saturday, July 20, at 2 and 8 p.m. </p>

East West Players presents the world premiere of “Unbroken Blossoms” by Philip W. Chung, directed by Jeff Liu, from June 27 to July 21 at the David Henry Hwang Theater, 120 N. Judge John Aiso St. in Little Tokyo.

World Premiere of ‘Unbroken Blossoms’ at East West Players

<p>The Kikino Northern Lites Métis dance group got some senior-level appreciation last Wednesday, performing for residents at the W. J. Cadzow Hospital's extended care ward in Lac La Biche. </p><p>During the mid-afternoon show, some members of the Northern Lites – a group that has toured across Canada – performed a variety of traditional dances and jigs for the seniors in attendance. </p><p>Charlene Gladue, who works in long-term care and the adult day program at the hospital, said the facility does not generally host big events for long-term care patients, but when the idea came to her, it seemed to be a good one to explore. </p><p>After speaking with a friend who is connected to the dancers, Gladue set out to make arrangements. </p><p>The vibrant colours of the traditional Métis clothing, the music, the motion, and the cultural connections all worked together, she said, to make it a fun event that raised the spirits of the extended care residents. </p> The success of the Northern Lites show has Gladue hoping to find more people to volunteer and perform for residents. </p><p>"It gets their mind off of things, and music is always a good therapy for them," she told Lakeland This Week. "They love music and dancers." </p>

The Kikino Northern Lites Métis dance group performed for residents at the W. J. Cadzow Hospital's extended care ward in Lac La Biche. During the mid-afternoon show, some members of the group performed a variety of traditional dances and jigs.

Métis dancers perform for extended care residents at Lac La Biche hospital

<p>President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump </span> are set to square off against one another in the first presidential debate of the political season on Thursday night.</p><p><b>Channel 2′s Richard Elliot </b>spoke with Georgia Governor Brian Kemp </span>, who has not been an outspoken supporter of either candidate, live during <i><b>Channel 2 Action News at 5:00 p.m.</b></i></p><p>"The whole world is watching, so it's gonna be a really big night and it's special that it's here in the great state of Georgia," Kemp said.</p><p><b></b><b>Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks</b><b>]</b></p><p>The governor broke down what he's expecting to see out of both candidates.</p><p>"Well, who knows what to expect with these two," he said. "What I hope we see is Donald Trump making the case to the American people and the people in our state that we can't afford four more years of Joe Biden."</p><p>He says that he thinks former Pres. Trump has a unique opportunity not as the incumbent to bring Pres. Biden's record into question during the debate.</p><p><b>RELATED STORIES:</b></p><li><p><b>CNN Presidential Debate: How to watch tonight's simulcast on Channel 2, WSB-TV apps</b></p></li><li><p><b>Atlanta ahead of CNN presidential debate</b></p></li><li><p><b>What to know about road closures, traffic for CNN Presidential debate, Copa America</b></p></li><li><p><b>Congestion, police barricades in Atlanta as soccer match collides with presidential debate</b></p></li><p>"Now, I'm sure Joe Biden is gonna try to distract Donald Trump and talk about the past and court cases and things," Kemp said.</p><p>He says that both men will need to stay focused on what matters to the American people.</p><p>Earlier this week, Kemp announced that he did not vote during the Republican primary. He said that he went to his polling place, but did not cast a vote.</p><p>"I didn't vote against [former Pres. Trump] either. I just didn't vote for anybody," he told Elliot.</p><p><i><b>Live coverage of the presidential debate begins on Channel 2 at 8 p.m. The debate itself begins at 9 p.m. </b></i><i><b>Here are the ways you can watch</b></i><i><b>.</b></i></p><p><b></b><b>WSB-TV Daily Headlines Newsletter</b><b>]</b></p>

"I’m sure Joe Biden is gonna try to distract Donald Trump and talk about the past," the governor said.

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp spoke with Channel 2 Action News at 5:00 p.m. Kemp said that he did not vote during the Republican primary. He said that both men will need to stay focused on what matters to the American people. live coverage of the presidential debate begins on Channel 2 at 8 p.M. The debate itself begins at 9 p. m.

Gov. Brian Kemp says Biden, Trump need ‘to stay focused’ during presidential debate

<p>TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Don't forget to bring snacks! All next weekend, Tampa Bay residents can watch select movies for free at the Tampa Theatre thanks to Pluto TV's "Summer of Cinema" campaign.</p><p>The summer campaign supports independent and family-run theaters across the country, including Tampa's very own. Built in 1926, the nonprofit Tampa Theatre is one of America's most "elaborate movie palaces" and beloved gathering places.</p><p>As part of the free movie weekend, the theater will be playing several movies including the star-studded "KINDS OF KINDNESS," which premiered on June 21, and the 1995 hit "APOLLO 13.</p><p>KINDS OF KINDNESS will have four screenings in the microcinema while APOLLO 13 will have one screening in the historic hall. Movie-goers can watch the films from July 6-7.</p>

All next weekend, Tampa Bay residents can watch select movies for free at the Tampa Theatre thanks to Pluto TV's "Summer of Cinema" campaign.

The Tampa Theatre is one of America's most "elaborate movie palaces" Pluto TV's "Summer of Cinema" campaign supports independent and family-run theaters. The theater will be playing several movies including the star-studded "KINDS OF KINDNESS," which premiered on June 21.

Watch these movies for free at the Tampa Theatre, including this newly released film

<p>EL PASO — Illinois' only voting rights museum, currently under development in El Paso, is receiving grant funding from Landmarks Illinois' Preservation Heritage Fund.</p><p>A news statement from Landmarks Illinois said the heritage fund issues financial assistance to significant buildings or sites in Illinois that risk demolition or imminent deterioration, require stabilization, need structural or reuse evaluation or need consideration for landmark eligibility.</p><p>In total, $28,000 is being awarded to seven preservation projects across Illinois. Among the awardees is the Project XV Museum, located at the Legacy Building, 1 W. Front St., El Paso.</p><p>Landmark Illinois stated it's providing $4,000 to the El Paso museum for continued restoration work of the building.</p><p>The museum seeks to become Illinois' first voting rights museum and refurbish David Strother's barbershop at the site. Strother was the first Black man to vote in Illinois. </p> Honoring Icons: Photos from the 2024 History Makers Gala</h3><h3>Steve Dobski, 2024 Honorees Bob and Julie Dobski, Laura and Michael O'Connor</h3><h3>Larry and Chris Mertes, Mary Penn, 2024 Honoree John Penn</h3><h3>Tom Smith, 2024 History Maker Honoree Jan Lancaster, Thom Rakestraw</h3><h3>Vicki Tilton, Pam Eaton, Tim Tilton</h3><h3></h3><h3>Michael Williams, Steve Dobski, Jon and Ed Voegele, Bob Dobski, Rod Spadinger</h3><h3>Maryn Michael, Michael Williams</h3><h3>Dan and Tommy Brady</h3><h3>Jan Lancaster</h3><h3></h3><h3>Brock and Katie Porter</h3><h3>Cindy Ross-Ringer, Pat Grogg</h3><h3>Angie and Frank Hoffman, Vickie and Steve Mahrt</h3><h3>Frank and Alice Sanders</h3><h3>Women of Sunrise Rotary: Tracy Patkunas, 2024 History Maker Honoree Julie Dobski, Ann Harding, Kim Schoenbein, Pat Messinger</h3><h3></h3><h3>Laura and Michael O'Connor</h3><h3>Jeanie and Clete Winkelmann, Kent King-Nobles</h3><h3>Eric Hansen, Cody Hendricks, Noah Tang, Emily McCusker, Museum Director Julie Emig</h3><h3>Jan Wilson, Mike Matejka, Patty Kernes</h3><h3>Marlene Gregor, Jan Holder</h3><h3>Jennifer Armstrong, David Morris</h3><h3>Dudley Burgess, Albert Beaver, Courtney Greenlee</h3><h3>Tom Lamonica, Drs. Tom Nielsen and Kathy Bohn, ISU President and first lady Aondover and Rose Tarhule</h3><h3></h3><h3></h3><h3>Friends of Honorees Bob and Julie Dobski</h3><h3>Ann Harding, Leanna Bordner, Pat Messinger, Jeff Stevens</h3><h3>Micaela Harris, Barb Dirmontaite</h3><h3>Nate Thomas, Robert Howard</h3><h3>Friends and Family of 2024 Honoree Jan Lancaster</h3><h3>Jan Lancaster, Laura O'Connor</h3><h3>Arlene Hosea, Chef Phillip Cade</h3><h3>Museum Board President Carolyn Yockey</h3><h3>Illinois Voices Theatre</h3><h3>Honorees Julie and Bob Dobski, Dee Frautschi</h3><h3>Honorees Julie and Bob Dobski, Steve Dobski</h3><h3>Duane Yockey, Jana Edge, Honorees Bob and Barb Hathway</h3><h3>Bob Hathway</h3><h3>Dave Bentlin, Honoree Jan Lancaster</h3><h3>Shawn Eiker, Tim Ryan, Honoree John Penn</h3><h3>John Penn, Tim Ryan, Shawn Eiker</h3><h3>Museum Board President Carolyn Yockey</h3><h3>Friends and family of Honorees Julie and Bob Dobski</h3><h3>Tony and Karen DeAngelis</h3><h3>Carolyn Yockey, ISU President Emeritus Larry Dietz</h3><h3>Josh Barnett, Sonja Reece</h3><h3>Cindy and Mark Segobiano</h3><h3>McLean County Museum of History Staff</h3><h3>Honorees Julie and Bob Dobski</h3><h3>Dave and Barb Selzer</h3><h3>Cindy and Don Myers</h3><h3>Jonell Kehias, Tom Smith, Thom Rakestraw</h3><h3>Anina Engelhorn, Carol and Roger Elliott</h3><h3>Chemberly Harris, Jeanne Morris</h3><h3>Museum Director Julie Emig</h3><h3>Jan Lancaster, Dave Bentlin</h3><h3>Tom Smith, Thom Rakestraw</h3><p>Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: </p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p></h4> Breaking News Reporter</p></h4></p></h4>

Illinois' only voting rights museum, currently under development in El Paso, is receiving grant funding from Landmarks Illinois' Preservation Heritage Fund.

$28,000 is being awarded to seven preservation projects across Illinois. Among the awardees is the Project XV Museum, located at the Legacy Building, 1 W. Front St., El Paso. The museum seeks to become Illinois' first voting rights museum and refurbish David Strother's barbershop. Strother was the first Black man to vote in Illinois.

El Paso's Project XV Museum granted $4,000 from Landmarks Illinois

<p>HUNTINGDON, Pa. (WTAJ) — ReKlaimed Vines and Defiant Distillery , a joint business, is inviting you to their annual freedom celebration.</p><p>The company will host the celebration on July 3 at its Huntingdon location (9002 William Penn Highway), because it always coincides with Huntingdon's fireworks show.</p><p>"We're a patriotic family. My husband was in the military, so it's a big deal for us. And so we like to make it a fun celebration. It's the only thing that we do that's truly family-friendly. I mean, we always say you're welcome to bring your kids, but it is a drinking establishment. But we try to make this fun for the whole family," Kristy Knouse, Owner of ReKlaimed Vines and Defiant Distillery said.</p><p>This year is the company's 6th celebration and it is expected to have some extra special activities.</p><p>Throughout the day there will be music, drink specials and a photo booth. </p><p>From 12-9 p.m., the Hog Hustler Food Truck will be on-site at the winery. Starting at 5 p.m. until 8 p.m. there will be a caricature artist available for guests, who will accept tips. Axe throwing will be available starting at 7 p.m. until the fireworks are over.</p><p>"It's just an excellent experience with the fireworks, the caricature artist, a photo booth like where else are you going to find all of that together in one," Knouse said.</p><p>The winery/distillery said they will have alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, so they ask any guests to leave coolers at home, as well as food.</p><p>Admission to the event is free and it is open to all ages. You are also welcome to bring a lawn chair.</p><p>According to ReKlaimed Vines and Defiant Distillery, there will be a great view of Huntingdon's fireworks from the parking lot at the end of the night.</p>

ReKlaimed Vines and Defiant Distillery, a joint business, is inviting you to their annual freedom celebration.

ReKlaimed Vines and Defiant Distillery is inviting you to their annual freedom celebration. The company will host the celebration on July 3 at its Huntingdon location.Throughout the day there will be music, drink specials and a photo booth. Axe throwing will be available starting at 7 p.m. until the fireworks are over.

Huntingdon distillery to host Fourth of July celebration

<p>Welcome to your home in the highly desired Heartland Hills subdivision! This beautiful four-bedroom, three-bath ranch boasts contemporary finishes and modern amenities at every turn. Step inside to discover a spacious and airy layout, creating a welcoming ambiance throughout. The beautiful open-concept kitchen has both functionality and style, featuring high-end appliances, sleek countertops, and ample cabinet space. Relax and unwind in the spacious master suite, complete with a well-appointed ensuite bathroom and a very generous walk-in closet space. Three additional bedrooms offer versatility for guests, home offices, or hobbies, ensuring everyone has their own retreat to enjoy. Descending into the fully finished basement, you will have endless possibilities for this great space.. whether you envision a cozy media room, a home gym, or a play area for the kids, this versatile space can accommodate your every need. Walk outside to a large backyard with a maintenance-free vinyl fence, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor entertaining. This home is in a perfect location that provides the quiet of a rural setting, and the comfort of city utilities. Heartland Hills subdivision offers a walking path and a community pond stocked for fishing. Conveniently located close to Veterans Parkway, Rivian, and the Bloomington golf courses, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and style. Don't miss your chance to see this property - schedule your showing today!</p><p> View More </p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p>

Welcome to your home in the highly desired Heartland Hills subdivision! This beautiful four-bedroom, three-bath ranch boasts contemporary finishes and modern amenities at every turn. Step inside to discover a

Four-bedroom, three-bath ranch boasts contemporary finishes and modern amenities at every turn. Heartland Hills subdivision offers a walking path and a community pond stocked for fishing. Conveniently located close to Veterans Parkway, Rivian, and the Bloomington golf courses. Don't miss your chance to see this property - schedule your showing today!

3 Bedroom Home in Bloomington - $374,900

<p>BLOOMINGTON — The brassy sounds of a 19th century Union Army regimental band that dug roots in Normal continues to ring across the Illinois State University campus.</p><p>The 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band is a Civil War-era musical reenactment group of at least 16 performers. They return Monday for another free, summertime performance on the ISU quad.</p><p>In 1996, the reenactment band was founded by Gary Borling, who died from cancer in 2000 at age 48. Carlock's John Bergmann, 53, stepped up to serve as bandmaster in 2017, but he has been playing on and off since 1997. Bergmann, a physics teacher for Normal Community High School, said he was invited to join by his high school band instructor and current regiment band member, Kirby Reese, on tenor horn.</p><p>Bergmann said he started playing on B-flat cornet, but Borling later moved him up to E-flat cornet, which he continues to play as bandmaster. Other horn sections of the band include alto horns, tenor horns (pitched like a trombone) and bass horn, which is different from a tuba. They have side drums, which would be called a snare drum today, and a bass drum with an attached cymbal.</p><p>Bergmann said they're very particular about playing instruments from the 1860-1880s. He said they use original instruments that are either very similar or identical to what was played in the war. But that particularity doesn't apply to drums, as Bergmann noted wood, leather and rope doesn't last for 170 years. </p><p>"Anyone who thinks instrument technology hasn't improved since the Civil War is crazy," said Bergmann, adding their instruments come with individual quirks and nuances. He said they tune about one-third higher pitch than average, meaning their tune could be described as "toy-like," or lighter than your average marching band.</p><p>Some of his band mates own their instruments, and others are owned by the band, which is based in Bloomington-Normal. Their members hail from across Central and Southern Illinois, including Mattoon, Springfield, Minonk, El Paso, Pekin and Collinsville.</p><p>Tunes that could be called out include "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "The Yellow Rose of Texas." They also play songs by Stephen Foster, like "Camptown races" and "Old folks at home," which is also called "Swanee River."</p><p>"We also play patriotic tunes, waltzes, polkas, quicksteps, marches, hymns — anything that the solider would have heard during the Civil War, Bergmann said. "But you didn't play patriotic tunes when trying to lull the guys to sleep at night."</p><h2>No place like home</h2><strong>Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack </strong><p>Bergmann said their band motto is "History through music." He said their performances are fun to listen to, with a repertoire full of variety and lore.</p><p>He said the original 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment band was a 17-piece group formed by Augustus Woodward and C. S. Elder, both of Lexington. Quite a few regimental bands formed in the first year of the Civil War, on both sides.</p><p>Locally, he said the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment was called the "Teacher's Regiment," led by Col. Charles Hovey, ISU's first president.</p><p>Bergmann said it was also called the "Brains Regiment" because of how educated the enlisted troops were; the 33rd had 13 college graduates, all privates, which was rare.</p><p>But regimental bands were short lived. Bergmann said they were mostly disbanded after the first year of the war for cost-saving measures and reorganized into brigade bands. Brigades are a military unit consisting of 10 regiments.</p><p>"The problem was bandsmen were paid $1 more per month than the ordinary soldier," he said.</p><p>Legends of how Civil War soldiers were affected by band music live on. Bergmann said certain songs inspired men to perform great deeds on the battlefield.</p><p>As the evening set in during one battle, he said a Union Army band played "Home! Sweet Home." Then, another Union Army band joined in, and before long, a Confederate band starting playing it, too.</p><p>"People started singing on both sides," Bergmann said. "They were singing the same song. ... It was just pretty moving."</p> Slideshow: 19 PFOP columns about Abraham Lincoln</h3> This week marks the 150th anniversary of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, shot on Good Friday, April 14, at Ford's Theatre in Washington,...</p> "I think there have been more lies told about Mr. Lincoln than about Santa Claus," remarked James S. Ewing during a 1909 Lincoln Day address a...</p> BLOOMINGTON - I was losing interest in politics, when the repeal of the Missouri Compromise aroused me again," wrote Abraham Lincoln in his "a...</p> BLOOMINGTON — An intriguing letter penned by Abraham Lincoln is on display in the library of the McLean County Museum of History. In this lett...</p> In the early morning of May 3, 1865, several thousandBloomington-area residents gathered in the predawn gloom to payfinal respects to the ma...</p> BLOOMINGTON - "Faults and defects every work of man must have," Samuel Johnson wrote of Milton. And what's true of Milton must be true of any ...</p> BLOOMINGTON - On May 29, 1856, Abraham Lincoln delivered aspeech in Bloomington that friends and observers called the finestof his career. |...</p> A cherished image of Abraham Lincoln has him on horseback, lawbooks and legal papers in saddle, crossing a stretch of unbrokenCentral Illino...</p> In late 1859 Abraham Lincoln, prodded by Jesse W. Fell ofNormal, penned a brief autobiographical sketch that helped get himelected president...</p> Although Bloomington did not host one of the seven momentous debates between Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. Douglas in 1858, both candidates s...</p> BLOOMINGTON — On April 10, 1860, 51⁄2 half weeks before acceptingthe Republican nomination for president, Abraham Lincoln was inBloomington to...</p> BLOOMINGTON — One hundred and fifty years ago this Tuesday,Abraham Lincoln received the Republican Party's nomination forpresident. Lincoln ...</p> BLOOMINGTON — On Nov. 21, 1860, president-elect Abraham Lincoln made his last appearance in Bloomington, a city that meant much to his legal a...</p> BLOOMINGTON — The first railroad lines reached Bloomington in1853, and with that transformative transportation technology came aflood of new...</p> BLOOMINGTON — With today being Abraham Lincoln's birthday (happy203rd Abe!), it's natural that our attention turns to the CivilWar, especial...</p> In the 19th century, high infant mortality rates plagued rich and poor alike, and for many parents this earthly existence was a true veil of tears. </p> Tuesday marks the 150th anniversary of arguably the most famous speech in American history. </p> BLOOMINGTON — In October 1852, 20-year-old McLean County resident Mary Jane Beard filed for divorce. </p> "All creation is a mine, and every man, a miner." So begins Abraham Lincoln's "Discoveries and Inventions" lecture, delivered in 1858 and 1859...</p> Related reading</h3> Read more about Abraham Lincoln: </p><p>Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: </p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p></h4> Breaking News Reporter</p></h4></p></h4>

The brassy sounds of a Union Army regimental band that dug roots in Normal still rings across the Illinois State University quad, where reenactors will perform a free concert Monday.

The 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band is a Civil War-era musical reenactment group of at least 16 performers. They return Monday for another free, summertime performance on the ISU quad. John Bergmann, 53, stepped up to serve as bandmaster in 2017, but he has been playing since 1997.

33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band living history in Civil War era music performances

<p>Ken and Judy (Rokey) Knepp of Eureka will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Friday. They were married on July 5, 1964, in a garden wedding at her parents' home in Congerville.</p><p>They are the parents of Cisne (Pete) Schaffer of Algonquin, Dave (Melissa) Knepp of Geneseo and Lorna (Matt) Zobrist of Eureka. They also have eight grandchildren: Bryce (Danny) Canary, Lucas (Danielle) Knepp, Haley Schaffer, Amanda Schaffer, Michael Schaffer, Malik (Hallie) Peterson, Ezekiel Zobrist and Carly Zobrist and four great-grandchildren.</p><p>He was a commodity manager with Caterpillar for 39 years before he retired in 2002. She is a homemaker.</p><p>The milestone will be celebrated with a family meal this weekend at Mona's Restaurant in Toluca as well as a trip to the Pacific Northwest in September for a cruise on the Columbia and Snake Rivers.</p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p>

Ken and Judy (Rokey) Knepp of Eureka will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Friday. They were married on July 5, 1964, in a garden wedding at her parents’ home in

Ken and Judy (Rokey) Knepp of Eureka will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Friday. They were married on July 5, 1964, in a garden wedding at her parents' home in Congerville. The milestone will be celebrated with a family meal this weekend at Mona's Restaurant in Toluca as well as a trip to the Pacific Northwest.

Knepp anniversary

<p>June 26, 1924: A service of an impressive nature will be held this afternoon at Park Hill Cemetery, where the ashes of former Bloomington resident Herbert W. Blaney of Lowell, Massachusetts, will be spread. The cemetery was designed and laid out by Blaney during his residence in the city, and before his death, he told his family that he wanted to be cremated and his ashes scattered in Park Hill Cemetery.</p><p>June 26, 1949: Karl Eduard Konrads, publisher of the Heidenheimer Zeitung, and Fritz Rudolf Deitz, chief editor and publisher of the Freankische Nachrichten, are the two German journalists expected to reach Bloomington around July 1 for two weeks of study at The Daily Pantagraph. They are part of a contingent of 22 German newsmen now in this country as guests of the federal government to learn something of the part that the press plays in our democracy.</p><p>June 26, 1974: For passersby, it has been a period of neck-craning and breath-holding, but for Charles Brunski it has been just another week on an "average job." Brunski, 45, of Wenona has been painting the 145-steeple of St. Patrick's Church, 1213 W. Locust St., for the past 10 days (between persistent storms). His weblike network of ropes and spidery ascensions and descensions have lured many eyes to his work.</p><p>June 26, 1999: While legendary General Motors engineer/designer Zora Arkus-Duntov was busy becoming the patron saint of Corvettes, his wife, ElfiArkus-Duntov, always waited patiently in the wings. In the Twin Cities this weekend for the Bloomington Gold Corvettes USA show, she's no longer on the sidelines. Today, she's in the spotlight as grand marshal of the show's motor tour when more than a thousand Corvette engines will be revved in a salute to her late husband.</p><p>Compiled by Pantagraph staff</p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p>

A service of an impressive nature will be held this afternoon at Park Hill Cemetery. Charles Brunski, 45, of Wenona has been painting the 145-steeple of St. Patrick's Church, 1213 W. Locust St., for the past 10 days.

HOW TIME FLIES

<p>This large 4 bedroom, 2 full bath home is situated on a spacious wooded lot in El Paso just 1/2 a block from South Pointe Park. The original woodwork is in excellent condition. The covered front porch enters into the foyer that boasts beautiful all wood staircase & hardwood floors. Spacious living & family rooms lead to a large dining room, 1st floor full bath/laundry & the beautifully remodeled kitchen. Two staircases lead to upstairs living spaces. Four very generous size bedrooms, full bath with plenty of storage & closet space in this home. Oversized 2 car garage & full basement great for storage. New HVAC and Andersen Windows 2022. Completed remodeled kitchen with large pantry addition in 2016, drop zone entryway remodel off kitchen/garage in 2016, full bathroom remodel in 2015. The foundation walls, concrete driveway & most of the plumbing has been redone in the past 20 years. Excellent El Paso Schools.</p><p> View More </p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p>

This large 4 bedroom, 2 full bath home is situated on a spacious wooded lot in El Paso just 1/2 a block from South Pointe Park. The original woodwork is

4 bedroom, 2 full bath home is situated on a spacious wooded lot in El Paso just 1/2 a block from South Pointe Park. The original woodwork is in excellent condition. Oversized 2 car garage & full basement great for storage. New HVAC and Andersen Windows 2022.

4 Bedroom Home in El Paso - $259,000

<p>The sights and sounds of summertime music and theater events are sizzling with superb shows this week and next in the Twin Cities.</p><p>Today, Nomad Theatre Co. opens its first show of the 2024-25 season, "Shaken, Not Stirred," a site-specific production hosted by Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge in Bloomington. Company leaders tell me they're going back to their roots with their next round of bar plays.</p><p>On Friday, the two-day Make Music Normal festival makes a comeback with a banging lineup stacked with many genres of music — even bagpipe music. Opening up the Alley Stage at noon Saturday is "The Rogue Bagpiper," also known as Nolan Schoenle. He hails from St. Louis, close to where he placed second in a Grade 3 competition May 11</span> in 2/4 march music at the St. Louis Scottish Games in Manchester, Missouri. That's quite an accomplishment for his grade, and I congratulate him for his strong efforts this season.</p><p>Then by Monday evening, you can start your Independence Day celebrations early by stopping by the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band's free show in Normal.</p><h2>Nomad Theatre goes back to its roots </h2><p>An extraordinary theater experience is shaping up inside the Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge & Eatery in downtown Bloomington.</p><p>"Shaken Not Stirred" is a performance of eight, 10-minute plays set before the backdrop of a live bar. Theater patrons will observe actors in their character's proper settings, just like a bar fly on the wall. Theatergoers may enjoy beverages during the show, but will be reminded to order from the real bartender — not the bartenders in character.</p><p>Connie Blick, who co-founded Nomad Theatre with Cristen Monson, said "Shaken Not Stirred" is taking them back to their roots: Their first project was "Raising The Bar" in 2019, hosted by nightshop in Bloomington.</p><p>She said they've learned that keeping open communication with host venues is key, while adding that Shake It Up has been accommodating and wonderful to them. Handling theater logistics, like background noises bleeding from other parts of the bar, became another lesson, too.</p><p>"That's what site-specific theatre is all about, right? You're hearing the ambience of the bar in the background... it's free sound effects," said Blick.</p><p>They didn't get that at nightshop because the bar was closed to non-theater patrons for the show, she said, but Shake It Up will stay open for other business.</p><p>"We're hoping it's a mutual sort of benefit," she continued. "We're bringing theater to the community and we're bringing people to their place of business, too."</p><p>While audiences may opt out of stirred drinks, as the production title implies, their moods certainly will be stirred by this show. The play scripts cover a charming range of topics and scenarios, such as William Shakespeare hearing his dramaturg's critiques, singles reading and writing adverts for the classifieds section of a newspaper, an awkward hook-up date and more.</p><p>In May, Nomad announced this season's lineup with the production of six short plays for "The Warehouse Plays" in southeast Bloomington. Next up is October's "The Polling Place" production at the Normal Community Activity Center, just in time for election season.</p><p>Normal's Brett Cottone was invited to answer the following questions as director of "Shaken Not Stirred."</p><p><strong>What was the biggest challenge you faced in scenic design, technology or acting in this site-specific space?</strong></p><p>In the case of scenic design, it's actually less of a challenge than "traditional" theater in the sense that you work with what you have. In this case we scoped out the bar, took some measurements, counted chairs and planned accordingly. Technology is limited, so you don't really have to worry about lighting cues, and we are doing pretty basic music cues to lead in and out of scenes. As far as acting goes, I feel like it's the most similar to a traditional show.</p><p><strong>Tell us about a principle emotion or conflict that builds up in the plays.</strong></p><p>Most of the plays are comedic and light and revolve around relationships. We cover speed dating, singles mixers, divorce, girlfriend gossip, want ads and even a famous playwright. We do have a couple that will tug at the heartstrings as well. It's a fun group of shows and a very talented group of performers.</p><p><strong>What's your drink of choice?</strong></p><p>I'm a fan of a well-aged bourbon neat, but usually order an old fashioned when I'm out at a bar.</p><h2></h2><p>Beats will be thumping about uptown Normal this weekend for the 10th annual Make Music Normal festival.</p><p>The festival comprises shows from about 50 artists and organizations on six stages, including genres that range from blues to jazz, folk to soul, and hip-hop to rock 'n' roll.</p><p>Beth Whisman, cultural arts director for the Town of Normal, said the festival celebrates the many ways people are inspired and invigorated by music on a daily basis. Morgan Schulte, festival booker and civic arts specialist for the town, said the diverse mix of acts "is a testament to our thriving local music scene."</p><strong>Listen now and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | Spotify | RSS Feed | SoundStack </strong><p>The free two-day event also promises to emphasize participation along with performance.</p><p>Peoria's Steady Flow will get grooving to funk music as the Friday night headliner. The Supersuckers will then sweep up crowds in the styles of alternative rock and cowpunk music to close out Saturday, the final festival night.</p><p>Event organizers said The Supersuckers were booked with help from Jim Wilson, one of three co-owners of North Street Records, 117 W. North St. in Normal. Wilson's favorite band is The Supersuckers, and he has attended more than 30 shows, according to a statement from the organizers.</p><p>North Street Records is also celebrating its 20th year in business this year, as well as Waiting Room Records at 113 W. North St. in Normal. Both stores opened in summer 2004, according to Pantagraph archives.</p><p>Several bands on this year's Make Music Normal lineup have been featured in past entries of this column. Read below to see top picks by BloNo Beats.</p><li> Front Street Collective is dynamically eclectic R&B and soul band you certainly can't miss. And they know a thing or two about getting people to participate in music. They host open mic nights at Jazz UpFront in downtown Bloomington and offer backing support to participants. Keep listening out for FSC originals like "Dangerous" by guitarist-vocalist Mattie Mae.</li><li> Dan Hubbard is a seasoned songwriter with several past performances at Make Music Normal under his belt. He's also drawn crowds to Saturdays on the Square in Bloomington. His Americana roots can deliver heartfelt ballads and swing to a rocking hit. Keep listening out for his touching show closer "The Last Time You See Me," because you might just want to catch him again.</li><li> The Rusty Pickups is a hard-driving cover band rocking out hits from the 1960s and 1970s, with good picks from The Rolling Stones, Peter Frampton and the Georgia Satellites. The six-piece group performed a February fundraising show with FSC and others to benefit Midwest Food Bank. Keep an ear out for their rendition of the Stones' "It's All Over Now."</li><li> Olivia Wexler is another performer at Make Music Normal with past shows played at The Coffeehouse in Normal and Jazz UpFront in Bloomington. Wexler teaches guitar and voice at Hip Cat Music School in Bloomington and studies vocal performance and new media at Illinois State University. She performs jazz and pop covers; be sure to listen for her original song "Car Sick."</li><li>Extraordinary sounds are taking root in Normal — specifically at Normal Community High School. Students in the NCHS Experimental Ensemble , led by sociology teacher Stefen Robinson, are being taught to play the instruments they have, not the instruments they thought they had. From dulcimers and vinyl record players to pumped-out pedal effects cabled to an electric cello, this ensemble's sounds are truly one of a kind.</li><h2>Brass and drums living history through Civil War-era music </h2><p>The brassy sounds of a 19th century Union Army regimental band that dug roots in Normal continue to ring across the Illinois State University campus.</p><p>The 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band is a Civil War-era musical reenactment group of at least 16 performers. They return Monday for another free summertime performance on the ISU quad.</p><p>In 1996, the band was founded by Gary Borling, who died from cancer in 2000 at age 48. Carlock's John Bergmann, 53, stepped up to serve as bandmaster in 2017, but he has been playing on and off since 1997. Bergmann, a physics teacher for Normal Community High School, said he was invited to join by his high school band instructor and current regiment band member, Kirby Reese, on tenor horn.</p><p>Bergmann said he started playing on B-flat cornet, but Borling later moved him up to E-flat cornet, which he continues to play as bandmaster. Other horn sections of the band include alto horns, tenor horns (pitched like a trombone) and bass horn, which is different from a tuba. They have side drums, which would be called a snare drum today, and a bass drum with an attached cymbal.</p><p>Bergmann said they're very particular about playing instruments from the 1860 to 1880s. He said they use original instruments that are either very similar or identical to those played during the war. But that particularity doesn't apply to drums, as Bergmann noted wood, leather and rope don't last for 170 years.</p><p>"Anyone who thinks instrument technology hasn't improved since the Civil War is crazy," said Bergmann, adding their instruments come with individual quirks and nuances. He said they tune at about one-third higher pitch, meaning their tone could be described as "toy-like," or lighter than your average marching band.</p><p>Some of his bandmates own their instruments, and others are owned by the band, which is based in Bloomington-Normal. Their members hail from across Central and Southern Illinois, including Mattoon, Springfield, Minonk, El Paso, Pekin and Collinsville.</p><p>Tunes that could be called out include "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" and "The Yellow Rose of Texas." They also play songs by Stephen Foster, like "Camptown Races" and "Old Folks at Home," which is also called "Swanee River."</p><p>"We also play patriotic tunes, waltzes, polkas, quicksteps, marches, hymns — anything that the solider would have heard during the Civil War," Bergmann said. "But you didn't play patriotic tunes when trying to lull the guys to sleep at night."</p><h3>No place like home</h3><p>Bergmann said their band motto is "History through music." He said their performances are fun to listen to, with a repertoire full of variety and lore.</p><p>He said the original 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment band was a 17-piece group formed by Augustus Woodward and C. S. Elder, both of Lexington. Quite a few regimental bands formed in the first year of the Civil War, on both sides.</p><p>Locally, he said the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment was called the "Teacher's Regiment," and led by Col. Charles Hovey, ISU's first president.</p><p>Bergmann said it was also called the "Brains Regiment" because of how educated the enlisted troops were; the 33rd had 13 college graduates, all privates, which was rare.</p><p>But regimental bands were short-lived. Bergmann said they were mostly disbanded after the first year of the war for cost-saving measures and were reorganized into brigade bands. Brigades are military units consisting of 10 regiments.</p><p>"The problem was bandsmen were paid $1 more per month than the ordinary soldier," he said.</p><p>Legends of how Civil War soldiers were affected by band music live on. Bergmann said certain songs inspired men to perform great deeds on the battlefield.</p><p>As the evening set in during one battle, he said a Union Army band played "Home! Sweet Home." Then, another Union Army band joined in, and before long, a Confederate band starting playing it, too.</p><p>"People started singing on both sides," Bergmann said. "They were singing the same song. ... It was just pretty moving."</p></span><p>Contact Brendan Denison at (309) 820-3238. Follow Brendan Denison on Twitter: </p><h4></h4><p><strong>INSIDE:</strong> The complete lineup for the two-day Make Music Normal festival. </p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p></h4> Breaking News Reporter</p></h4></p></h4>

In this week's BloNo Beats, read about Make Music Normal, a new Nomad Theatre show and the 33rd Illinois Volunteer Regiment Band.

Nomad Theatre Co. opens its first show of the 2024-25 season, "Shaken, Not Stirred" The site-specific production is hosted by Shake It Up Cocktail Lounge in Bloomington. The two-day Make Music Normal festival makes a comeback with a banging lineup of music.

BloNo Beats: Twin Cities popping with summer music fest, bar plays, Civil War-style band

<h2>Taylor Swift</h2><p>Are you ready for it? Drop by Eureka Public Library, 202 S. Main St., for Taylor Swift Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. July 2. Swifties of all ages can make friendship bracelets and sing (karaoke) like no one cares! Weather permitting, this free program will be held in the library's outdoor pavilion.</p><h2>Food truck pop-up</h2><p>Stop by the food truck pop-up events the summer at the library for lunch! The featured food trucks for July will be The Phoenix Food Truck from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Wednesday and Rubi's Brickoven Pizza on from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9. </p><p>Keep an eye on the library's website ( ) and social media accounts for information about any additional stops.</p><h2>'Visions of America'</h2><p>The library will show the next installment of "Visions of America | All Stories, All People, All Places" at 1 p.m. Wednesday July 3. </p><p>"Journey to 18th & Vine: Stories of African Americans in Kansas City" will explore a neighborhood that has been the heart and soul of the African American community in Kansas City, bolstering the American dream of freedom and equality. A vibrant center of African American culture, it is the home to important historic sites like the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the American Jazz Museum.</p><p>The library staff will lead a discussion after the episode.</p><p>The program is the third and final installment in a series created to celebrate America's 250th birthday. To watch the series or learn more, go to .</p><h2>Fourth of July</h2><p>The library will be closed on Thursday, July 4, for Independence Day. </p><h2>Family movie matinee</h2><p>Stop by the library's program room at 1 p.m. Friday, June 5 to watch a fun family film in the air conditioning! Bring a blanket (or beach towels!) to spread out on the floor to watch as a family. Patrons are also welcome to bring their own preferred movie snacks.</p><p>Grown-ups must stay with kids for the duration of the movie. There will be posters in the library announcing the films one week beforehand.</p></span></span></span></span></span></h2></p>

Explore African American history, sing and play like Taylor Swift or watch a movie at Eureka Public Library.

Eureka Public Library, 202 S. Main St., will host Taylor Swift Tuesday from 1 to 3 p.m. Free program will be held in the library's outdoor pavilion. Next installment of "Visions of America | All Stories, All People, All Places" to be shown Wednesday, July 3.

See the latest Eureka Public Library news

<p>NBC previously packed Thursday nights with procedural action with three solid hours of the Law & Order franchise, but that will change in the fall of the 2024 TV schedule with Law & Order: Organized Crime moving to streaming for Season 5 for Peacock Premium subscribers . The story of New York's Organized Crime Control Bureau will continue with Christopher Meloni in his iconic role as Det. Elliot Stabler; fans just shouldn't expect to see it paired with Law & Order: SVU in primetime again.</p><p>Some elements of the show are bound to change with a move from network TV to streaming, while others will remain the same. Let's get into what to expect from the arrival of Law & Order: Organized Crime on Peacock as an original.</p><p>At the time of writing, <strong>no premiere date</strong> has been confirmed for Season 5. Of the four seasons of Organized Crime so far, two premiered alongside Law & Order and SVU for 22-episode runs starting in September of that year, but the eight-episode first season premiered in April 2021 and the 13-episode fourth season (affected by the WGA writers strike ) premiered in January 2024. According to Deadline , the fifth season is expected to run for ten episodes. Mark-Paul Gosselaar 's Found Season 2 will take OC's previous 10 p.m. ET Thursday slot on NBC starting in the fall.</p><span>Why Law & Order: Organized Crime Is Moving To Peacock</span></h2><p>There was some confusion in the spring when Organized Crime was the only show in NBC's branch of the nine-show Dick Wolf TV universe not to be renewed. After rumors of a move to streaming , the transition was finally confirmed in early May. Later that month, NBCUniversal Entertainment President of Programming Planning Strategy Jeff Bader explained the move to Peacock to TVLine , saying:</p><p>According to the NBCUniversal exec, the issue was never a lack of success for the delay in Organized Crime's renewal. It remains to be seen how much of the audience follows Stabler and Co. to Peacock.</p><span>What Law & Order: Organized Crime Will Be About</span></h2><p>At the time of writing, no details have been confirmed for Organized Crime Season 5's story. That said, the end of Season 4 that brought OC full circle also delivered a cliffhanger with the big bad of the year – arms and drug dealer Julian Emery – escaping the task force with a briefcase of chemical weapons, with Joe Stabler Jr. in tow.</p><p>Emery escaped with a not-entirely-willing Joe Jr. on the heels of Stabler's latest dangerous undercover op and the murder of fellow NYPD detective Samir Bashir , who was such a kind family man that fans perhaps should have known he wouldn't survive long in the intensity of Organized Crime.</p><p>Assuming the stars align for the cast members whose characters survived the most recent finale, it seems likely that Season 5 will pick up where Season 4 left off, with or without a time jump.</p><span>What Stars Are Returning For Season 5?</span></h2><p>NBCUniversal's initial announcement of the renewal and move to Peacock only confirmed the return of Christopher Meloni as Elliot Stabler as well as John Shiban as showrunner, after Danielle Moné Truitt raved about what the Breaking Bad vet brought to Organized Crime . Truitt and Ainsley Seiger are the last remaining series regulars from OC's first season alongside Meloni, and it'd be surprising if they're not back as Sergeant Bell and Jet.</p><p>Rick Gonzalez also seems likely to return as Reyes, as well as Dean Norris (Randall), Michael Trotter (Joe Jr), Ellen Burstyn (Bernie), and Nicky Torchia (Eli) as the extended Stabler family, plus Tom Payne (Julian Emery). Speaking with CinemaBlend earlier in 2024, Norris and Trotter expressed hopes that fans were having fun with Season 4. Tate Ellington's return as Vargas seems less certain, although he too expressed gratitude toward fans campaigning for the renewal.</p><span>What New Stars Are Joining Season 5?</span></h3><p>Peacock has not yet confirmed any new stars who will join Organized Crime for the Season 5 move to Peacock. Unlike the third season, the fourth didn't end with a series regular being killed off, so until we know which cast members are coming back, it's too soon to guess about potential replacements.</p><span>Crossover Potential With Law & Order: SVU</span></h2><p>After Law & Order: Organized Crime launched back in 2021 as a backdoor pilot of Law & Order: SVU with the very-long awaited reunion between Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson ( Mariska Hargitay ), is it any wonder the OC/SVU crossovers were always highly anticipated? OC Season 4 and SVU Season 25 didn't deliver any two-parters or on-screen reunions despite the previous season finales ending on a hopeful note for them; is there still hope now that the shows won't air on the same platform? Hargitay told Variety this following OC's renewal in May:</p><p>As Hargitay alluded, the closest that OC and SVU delivered to a Stabler/Benson reunion in the 2023-2024 TV season was Stabler leaving his former partner a voicemail and Benson calling Stabler – with a voice cameo from Meloni – following the stressful Season 25 finale standoff . In her interview, she sounded optimistic about an NBC/Peacock crossover for the two characters, so there's certainly still hope.</p><span>Where To Watch Seasons 1-4</span></h2><p>For all the unanswered questions and as the wait continues for the return of Law & Order: Organized Crime, there is good news for fans. Despite not being available streaming for some time, all four seasons of OC so far are currently streaming on Peacock . Every season of SVU is available on the NBCUniversal streamer as well, so OC fans have the option of revisiting every crossover with Benson and Stabler.</p><p>More news should continue to release about Law & Order: Organized Crime Season 5's move to Peacock in the coming months, although details may be few and far between since a fall premiere isn't guaranteed. Stay tuned!</p>

Here are the available details so far for Law & Order: Organized Crime moving to streaming on Peacock for the fifth season.

Law & Order: Organized Crime will move to Peacock in the fall of 2024. Season 5 is expected to run for ten episodes. Christopher Meloni will continue to star as Det. Elliot Stabler. The show will not be paired with Law & Order SVU in primetime again.

Law & Order: Organized Crime Season 5: What We Know About New-To-Streaming Drama

<p>With the release date for Only Murders In The Building Season 4 only two months away, Selena Gomez offered a hilarious tease about one of the funny cast members joining the hilarious Hulu comedy . While I'm already excited for the return of Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez's crime adventures, the actress has me even more intrigued now because of a funny farting story that involved Meryl Streep and Molly Shannon.</p><p> Martin Short is filling in on Jimmy Kimmel Live as host this week, so of course he had to have Selena Gomez on as a guest. While the pair were talking about the upcoming season on the 2024 TV schedule , Short brought up one scene where Gomez was laughing so hard at Molly Shannon that he noticed it in the episode itself, he could tell she was cracking up. Then, Gomez responded with the reason why, saying:</p><p>Oh my goodness, I don't blame Selena Gomez one bit!!</p><p>That sounds too funny to possibly not break for. In the late-night segment (on Kimmel's YouTube channel ), Gomez couldn't help but start laughing while telling the story, too. The account is a great tease for Season 4, because Molly Shannon was cast specifically for the upcoming episodes. It has been revealed that the Saturday Night Live alum is playing a "high-powered LA businesswoman who finds herself drawn into the world of investigation in NY." Here's what Short said about the sequence:</p><p>Following the release of the Only Murders In The Building Season 4 teaser trailer , we definitely have a sense of what to expect from the new season. Charles, Oliver and Mabel will be traveling to Hollywood after they learn that executives want to make a movie based on the work they've done with their podcast over the years. Check out the trailer below:</p><p>Molly Shannon is featured in one funny scene in the trailer where the trio are being asked to sign away their life rights so their stories could be featured in the Hollywood movie.</p><p>I can't wait to see how Molly Shannon somehow ends up farting in Meryl Streep 's face!! She is an exciting addition to the series, but there are so many more stars in Season 4 to be excited for.</p><p>Per an Instagram post from the series' account, Eugene Levy is cast as Charles , Eva Longoria is cast as Mabel and Zach Galifianakis will play Oliver in the movie based on the podcasting trio. I absolutely cannot wait to see what bits come from this development in the series! Also, Kumail Nanjiani and Melissa McCarthy are among the cast, however, their roles remain a mystery.</p>

Only Murders In The Building has enlisted the hilarious Molly Shannon for Season 4, and she cracked Selena Gomez up.

Selena Gomez was a guest on Jimmy Kimmel Live this week. Martin Short told her a funny story about Molly Shannon. The actress couldn't help but start laughing. Season 4 of Only Murders In The Building premieres on Hulu on September 14. It stars Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez as a podcast trio.

Selena Gomez Revealed The Only Murders In The Building Scene She Couldn't Make It Through Without Laughing, And It Involves Molly Shannon Farting In Meryl Streep's Face

Katy Perry has gone viral after she dodged a question about working with producer Dr. Luke on new music despite Kesha 's sexual misconduct allegations against him.</p> It was recently revealed that Dr. Luke co-produced Perry's new single Woman's World — which is being marketed as a feminist anthem — along with other songs on her upcoming sixth studio album.</p> Dr. Luke - real name Łukasz Sebastian Gottwald - is behind many of Perry's career-defining hits, including 2008's I Kissed a Girl, 2010'sTeenage Dream and 2013's Roar.</p> Perry was confronted about the controversial collaboration as she exited a Paris Fashion Week event on Wednesday, as per footage obtained by TMZ .</p> As she made her way through the crowd, one fan asked the star point blank: 'Isn't your album about women empowerment? Why are you working with Dr. Luke?'</p> The fan was met with silence as Perry quickly slid into her chauffeured SUV.</p> A member of Perry's team tried to shut the car door while the fan was speaking but a security guard got in the way.</p> It's unclear if the mother-of-one purposely ignored the fan's question or if they were simply drowned out by the noisy crowd that had gathered outside the PFW event.</p> Perry's collaboration with Dr. Luke has sparked major controversy ahead of her much-anticipated comeback.</p> Earlier this month, Rolling Stone reported that the multi-Grammy Award nominee is collaborating with Dr. Luke as well as Max Martin, Sarah Hudson and Stargate on her sixth record.</p> Perry 'knew exactly the album she wanted to make and put together the team to make it happen,' a Capitol Records source told the outlet of the collection of talent the former American Idol judge put together for her first release since 2020's Smile.</p> The feedback online was pointed toward both Perry and Dr. Luke, who last year settled a defamation lawsuit with Kesha, 37, after she claimed in a 2014 lawsuit that he had sexually and physically abused her.</p> Kesha, whose full name is Kesha Rose Sebert, tweeted 'lol' in the wake of news Perry and Dr. Luke would be collaborating.</p> A number of followers speculated on the meaning of Kesha's 'lol' tweet Monday, with one speculating that 'she's laughing at katy and her new song,' while another asked, 'Is this Katy shade?'</p> Other people were more pointed toward Perry's professional decision to collaborate with Dr. Luke.</p> 'It'll never be a 'Woman's World' bc people like Katy Perry continue to support and uplift abusers in the industry like Dr. Luke,' one user said.</p> Another added, 'I'm actually in shock how so many Katy Perry fans are defending her with this Dr. Luke thing... it's ok to hold your favorite artist accountable btw.'</p> One user said that Perry had been calculating in the move, as she 'waited for the whole court process to end before calling him again.'</p> One user said they 'won't be listening,' while another said, 'Some people make music with integrity, while others just care about having a number 1.'</p> The fallout from the allegations and long-running legal battle with Kesha led artist Doja Cat in December 2021 to declare that she would not collaborate with him moving forward.</p> 'I don't think I need to work with him again,' Doja Cat told Rolling Stone. I don't think I need to work with him in the future. I know that.'</p> The Santa Barbara, California native recently released a clip on TikTok previewing her upcoming track Woman's World, which is set to be released July 11.</p> Perry this past February said she was departing the series American Idol after seven seasons to put her attention toward her career as a solo artist.</p> Kesha and Dr. Luke announced they had settled their long-running legal battle in June of 2023.</p> Kesha said in a statement at the conclusion of the proceedings, 'Only God knows what happened that night;' while Dr. Luke said he was 'absolutely certain that nothing happened' and that he 'never drugged or assaulted her.'</p> Perry was one of a number of notable names who submit testimony or a sworn statement in the case, a group that included Lady Gaga, Pink, Kelly Clarkson, Avril Lavigne and Adam Levine, according to the AP.</p> Dailymail.com has reached out to reps for Perry for comment on the story.</p> This week, Perry has been taking Paris Fashion Week by storm as she attended a slew of runway shows in some of her raciest outfits yet.</p> She was accused of copying Kanye West's 29-year-old wife Bianca Censori as she went topless under a black fur coat for the star-studded Balenciaga show.</p> Censori — who wed the controversial rapper, 47, in January 2023 — has garnered a reputation for stepping out in similar revealing ensembles.</p> Days before that, Perry made her runway debut as she walked in the Vogue World show in a shocking see-through frock.</p>

Katy Perry has gone viral after she dodged a question about working with producer Dr. Luke on new music despite Kesha's sexual misconduct allegations against him.

Perry was confronted about the controversial collaboration as she exited a Paris Fashion Week event on Wednesday. One fan asked the star point blank: 'Isn't your album about women empowerment? Why are you working with Dr. Luke?' The fan was met with silence as Perry quickly slid into her chauffeured SUV. It's unclear if the mother-of-one purposely ignored the fan's question or if they were simply drowned out.

Katy Perry goes viral for dodging question about working with Dr. Luke on her new album despite the sexual misconduct allegations Kesha made against him

<h6> Arts & Entertainment </h6> Cinema Lab Unveils Newly Enhanced New Canaan Playhouse Movie Theater</h1> The historic Playhouse theater reopens this week a number of exciting enhancements, including luxury seats and a new pub for concessions.</h2><p>NEW CANAAN, CT — The Playhouse, a cherished New Canaan movie theater whose history dates back over a century, will reopen to the public Friday with a number of exciting enhancements, some of which cannot be found in any area theaters.</p><p>In November 2022, news broke that The Playhouse theater on Elm Street, which has been closed since 2020, would reopen under new owners Cinema Lab.</p><p>Located in the heart of downtown New Canaan, The Playhouse first opened in 1923. In 1986, the theater added a second auditorium.</p><p>Brandon Jones, chief marketing officer for Cinema Lab, said he and his team were immediately struck by how beautiful the building was and strongly believed it should be restored.</p><p>"Everybody we met in the town said 'we miss having a movie theater in our town,' and I think that's the really important piece of it," Jones said. "You can jump on the highway, but the nearest theater is 20 minutes away via highway when a lot of these towns are truly missing the heartbeat and the soul [of a community]. Movie theaters are such an epicenter of the culture and creativity in a place where family and friends gather, so we really do mean it when we say come and watch a movie, grab a drink, enjoy a bite and meet a friend, because that's the heartbeat."</p><p>Founded by film and television producer Luke Parker Bowles, former Soho House CFO Andy Childs and Jones, Cinema Lab aims to reimagine landmark theaters into community entertainment centers that celebrate film and forge lasting connections among patrons, according to additional press materials provided by Cinema Lab.</p><p>Actor and producer Patrick Wilson also serves as head of experience for Cinema Lab, a still relatively young company that opened its first theater in 2021.</p><p>"Movies influence culture," Jones said, "and it's really important to us that these iconic buildings in the heart of these towns are restored and refined and create a cinema going experience at the level it should be today so that people can go on and make memories for the next 100 years."</p><p><strong>New Enhancements</strong></p><p>When the Cinema Lab team first came across the then-shuttered Playhouse in the summer of 2022, they were immediately inspired by both the town of New Canaan itself and how beautiful the long-standing building was, according to Jones.</p><p>After raising money and working with the town, the building underwent "about 18 or 19 months" of construction and renovation, Jones said.</p><p>When it reopens to the public this week, guests will be able to enjoy traditional concessions like popcorn, candy and soda, however the real highlights will be enhancements like a new pub offering drinks and food.</p><p>"It's a real pub," Jones said, "a gathering place. It's not a bar where you have shots, it's a pub where you sit and have conversations."</p><p>Food and drinks from the pub can also be brought into the theaters, both of which seat a little over 100 people.</p><p>The seats themselves are unique, as the Cinema Lab team brought them in from Norway. Jones described them as "luxury wide rockers" with a small side table for concessions and a large cupholder.</p><p>He also noted the seats do not feature the kick out foot rest that has become common at area movie theaters due to their distracting nature.</p><p>"These are great, comfortable, oversized, luxury seats...I think we're one of the first, if not the first, to bring these seats over from the U.K.," Jones said. "We really respect the moviegoing experience, so we wanted to create auditoriums for people who want to get away from distractions and be immersed in the moviegoing experience."</p><p>The renovated theater also features a second-floor event space that will double as a member's club and include a small plates menu designed by Chef Luke Venner of Elm restaurant in New Canaan.</p><p>"We believe that having a membership component is something that makes what Cinema Lab does economically viable," Jones said. "The movie theater is important, but as you know the challenges with running a movie theater alone is very difficult, so you have to introduce other revenue streams. That second floor has really changed everything about what Cinema Lab is focused on, creating this social environment where people want to come and gather whether they are going to a movie or not."</p><p><strong>Exciting Entertainment</strong></p><p>Jones also acknowledge that while the film exhibition business has its ups and downs, he and the Cinema Lab team believe the business overall is strong right now.</p><p>As an example, he noted the Pixar Animation Studios movie "Inside Out 2" recently broke a number of box office records after opening nationwide earlier this month.</p><p>"We believe the state of the industry is still very strong and people will come out in droves, especially when you're curating content for the area you live in," Jones said, "and that's why we form local advisory boards and panels so we can work with them and talk about what types of movies they want to see." </p><p>The Playhouse will primarily have two Hollywood films showing at all times, possibly a couple more depending on what show schedules they can run, Jones said.</p><p>This week, the theater will play "If" and "A Quiet Place: Day One," both of which feature "The Office" actor John Krasinski as a director or producer. Jones teased that guests at the theater this week will also be treated to a special video message from Krasinski.</p><p>Future movies scheduled to play at the theater throughout July include "Despicable Me 4," "Fly Me to the Moon," "Twisters" and "Deadpool & Wolverine," according to Jones.</p><p>"We will also do some alternate programming where we bring in independent films or we bring in different film series," Jones said. "That could be a documentary series, it could be a kids' series, it could be a retrospective series."</p><p>Cinema Lab also works with a number of filmmakers and actors, many of which will often host "talkbacks" at their theaters. Jones said they hope to host their first New Canaan "talkback" event in July. </p><p>"That's where the membership is so important," Jones said, "because as a member you have special access to things like filmmaker talkbacks and advance ticketing notification, things like that."</p><p>Jones emphasized that Cinema Lab designed The Playhouse to be a community space, where eager moviegoers can escape the heat and get lost in a new summer blockbuster while guests just looking for a space to socialize and enjoy a drink or small plate can feel comfortable doing so without even stepping into the auditoriums. </p><p>"I will say this, and I will say this boldly, The Playhouse is the most beautiful movie theater in the United States," Jones said. "I don't believe that anybody would have walked into this town and done what we have done to this building. I just don't believe that vision is out there right now."</p> Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. .

Cinema Lab Unveils Newly Enhanced New Canaan Playhouse Movie Theater - New Canaan, CT - The historic Playhouse theater reopens this week a number of exciting enhancements, including luxury seats and a new pub for concessions.

The Playhouse theater in New Canaan, Connecticut, will reopen to the public Friday. The historic theater has been closed since 2020. New owners Cinema Lab brought in luxury seats and a new pub for concessions. The theater also features a second-floor event space that will double as a member's club.

Cinema Lab Unveils Newly Enhanced New Canaan Playhouse Movie Theater

<p>Last week, a group of engaged citizens presented Mayor Donna Deegan's Chief of Staff with our two-page alternative vision for developing historic Downtown Jacksonville, from the St. James Building to the St. Johns River along Laura Street. 1 </p><p>The Deegan team, together with the City Council's Special Committee on the Future of Downtown would do well to listen to this group, especially as the special committee members convince themselves that the present condition of our historic Downtown — our all-too-painful lagging other cities in revitalizing our urban core — results from too little autonomy for Downtown Investment Authority and too few financial incentives for private developers. Don't you know, that's the path down which the special committee's inquiry is taking them.</p> The alternative</h3><p>Our path to a more welcoming, vibrant, and distinctive historic Downtown Jacksonville offers an alternative vision to the city's prevailing wisdom, guided by three principles:</p><li>Focus on the historic core versus the perimeter</li><li>Capitalize on historic building restoration and not new towers</li><li>Lead with parks and public spaces and not commercial development</li> Specific recommendations</h3><p>We call for funding and implementing actions that connect the St. James Building to the St. Johns River along Laura Street. Home to "our most valuable historic buildings," this corridor provides us with "our greatest opportunity for commercial revitalization and economic growth."</p><p>Just imagine. An iconic path from the St. James Building to the St. Johns River. A pedestrian and shade-tree friendly historic promenade, the very location of Jacksonville's renaissance, anchored on both ends by public parks — James Weldon Johnson Park and a Riverfront Park for All — with unobstructed views of our life-giving and life-sustaining St. Johns River, and along which architecturally significant historic buildings, residential properties, restaurants, banks, shops, stores and cultural institutions thrive.</p> The path less traveled</h3><p>Well-researched, and steeped in the experience of cities having successfully restored and repurposed their historic urban core, these three principles and specific recommendations lie in stark contrast to the path Jacksonville continues to pursue, one whose goals are superficial, as if privatizing public land along the St. Johns River and increasing the number of people living in riverfront high rises is unique, distinctive, or what people respectful of Mother Nature would do.</p><p>On the contrary, our current path, like a well traveled road, is pedestrian. We're simply fulfilling a decades-old plan to privatize public land along the St. Johns River, no doubt the primary goal of Jacksonville's Downtown riverfront redevelopment efforts. Sadly, this effort leaves for last any intentional effort to capitalize on what remains of our architecturally significant historic core — the very essence of what distinguishes our Downtown from other places. Not to mention its close proximity to the St. Johns River, our greatest natural Downtown asset.</p> Most egregious of all</h3><p>When it comes to understanding serious contemporary and future challenges that the intrusion of river water brings , our current path is unforgivable, revealing a certain human arrogance and hubris. Why is it so difficult for us to learn from the example of others, that Mother Nature provides our city with an extraordinary floodplain that naturally functions as a sponge for unwanted flood waters? </p><p>The ever-shrinking, tiny bit of remaining Northbank riverfront public property should be sacrosanct, forever public, not open for further private commercial development but preserved in perpetuity for future generations, along which an iconic, wide, and shaded riverwalk should be our signature human feature. Not high rises for the few.</p> We happy few</h3><p>Though them that rule may think this group a small but vocal fringe, these are folks who have spent life-times as professionals and as volunteers doing the tough small "d" work of everyday democracy and community-building. Among our number are architects, landscape architects, engineers, preservationists, commercial bankers, master gardeners, neighborhood redevelopment experts, and successful practitioners who create and preserve public spaces.</p><p>We pay taxes, vote, and reside in historic Downtown's adjacent neighborhoods. We love Jacksonville and care deeply about leaving the next generation something they too will find precious and worthy of preservation and celebration — a historic core second to none, whose main pathway leads to iconic public park space along the majestic St. Johns River.</p><p>We have little time to take a different path, to take Robert Frost's road "less traveled." </p> Come join us</h3><p> Download and share this alternative vision . Then, tell someone in charge — like the Special Committee on the Future of Downtown, the mayor, and DIA board members.</p><p>This column appears through a partnership with JaxLookout. </p>

Our path to a more welcoming, vibrant, and distinctive historic Downtown Jacksonville offers an alternative vision to the city’s prevailing wisdom, guided by three principles.

A group of citizens presented Mayor Donna Deegan's Chief of Staff with an alternative vision for Downtown Jacksonville. They say the city is lagging other cities in revitalizing its urban core. The alternative vision is guided by three principles:Focus on the historic core versus the perimeter.Capitalize on historic building restoration and not new towers.Lead with parks and public spaces and not commercial development.

An alternative vision for historic Downtown Jacksonville - Jacksonville Today

<p>Calling them "sexual" festivals, Gov. Ron DeSantis </span> on Thursday blamed the state's theatrical Fringe Festivals for his decision to veto more than $32 million in arts and culture funding from the state budget. And he indicated the state may restrict funds for cultural nonprofits like Fringe in the future.</p><p>DeSantis's remarks, made at a news conference in Auburndale, marked the first time the governor publicly addressed his June 12 veto, which caught arts groups by surprise statewide.</p><p>"We didn't have control over how it was being given," DeSantis said of the arts grant money. "So you'd have your tax dollars being given in grants to things like the Fringe Festival, which is a sexual festival where they're doing all this stuff. ... How many of you think your tax dollars should go to fund that? Not many people would do that."</p><p>Orlando Fringe interim executive director Scott Galbraith told the Sentinel the governor had "mischaracterized" the two-week annual festival of short theater, dance, music, comedy, magic and burlesque performances that takes place each May in Loch Haven Park.</p><p>"The festival is a very diverse and inclusive space," said Galbraith. "There's a wide variety of experiences to be had."</p><p>Galbraith said Orlando Fringe also was caught off-guard that its festival was deemed a reason funding was denied to all cultural organizations statewide</p><p>The governor's veto, coupled with earlier cuts from the Legislature, left four state grant programs administered by the state Division of Arts and Culture with no money to allocate to nonprofits across Florida.</p><p>John DiDonna, who has participated in past Orlando Fringe Festivals as an actor, director and producer, said it was unfair to describe the fest as "sexual."</p><p>"There are deep shows, there are thoughtful shows, there are beautiful musicals, dance shows," he said. "It's not just one thing, it's many things: A rich cornucopia of the arts."</p><p>The printed Orlando Fringe Festival program for 2024 lists more than 170 shows, with 62 of them rated appropriate for all ages. Fewer than a third, 54 shows, were rated by their performers as suitable only for ages 18 and above.</p><p>The local arts community has worried the Fringe could be caught in the crossfire of "political culture wars" ever since the governor took legal action against the Plaza Live in Orlando over a Christmas drag show in 2023, DiDonna said.</p><p>"I remember having conversations with people who were worried the Fringe would be targeted next," he said. "It's a high-profile one for him to go after." you could see it coming down the line.""]</p><p>Under current rules, arts and cultural organizations face a lengthy process to receive state funding. They must prepare and submit applications to the Division of Arts and Culture, and a volunteer panel then questions the organizations, reviews the applications and scores them. The scores determine the groups' eligibility for funding.</p><p>But the Legislature can ignore that eligibility.</p><p>This year, for example, less than half of the money needed to fund the eligible grants was approved by the Legislature. The governor's veto eliminated what was left.</p><p>Both the Orlando Fringe Festival and the much smaller Tampa Fringe had applied for state grants. Orlando's festival was in line for $70,500.</p><p>Out of 630 requests for funding statewide, Orlando Fringe ranked No. 314. Its application received a score from its evaluators of 91.8, slightly above the average of 91.4. A score of 80 is needed to be recommended for funding.</p><p>Galbraith said arts groups that win state grants have all expenditures reviewed by the state to make sure the funding is used appropriately.</p><p>"There's a great deal of accountability when you use taxpayer money, and rightfully so," said Galbraith. "They deserve to know how it has been spent."</p><p>Typically, when receiving state grants, Orlando Fringe uses it for operating expenses such as rent, staff salaries and to fund initiatives such as the Fringers of the Future, a youth-theater program that allows local high schools to present their own shows at the festival, which also features a "Kids Fringe" for younger children and their families.</p><p>Thursday, DeSantis said the state should consider changes in the way the state grants money to cultural organizations.</p><p>"I have to stand up for taxpayers and say, 'You know what, that is an inappropriate use of taxpayer dollars,'" DeSantis said, continuing to refer to Fringe Festivals. "I think the Legislature needs to re-evaluate how that's being done."</p><p>Galbraith said his organization was preparing a response, not only for the governor but to reiterate to the community the breadth of Fringe Festival offerings and its impact on Central Florida.</p><p>"We want to make sure people understand not only our artistic value but our economic value, educational value and contributions to quality of life," he said. "We have sung this song before and we will continue to."</p><p>This year's festival attracted about 50,000 patrons, down from a pre-COVID peak in 2019 of nearly 75,000. Separate from the festival, the organization also programs the downtown Fringe ArtSpace with year-round theatrical events.</p><p>The Fringe Festival does not directly pay performers, who are chosen by lottery to participate. And while this year saw several burlesque shows — with elaborately theatrical costumes, choreography and set design — Galbraith pointed out that all legal limitations on nudity and sexual content were observed.</p><p>"It's uncensored," he said of the festival. "But that doesn't mean it's unlawful."</p><p>He issued an invitation to the governor to see the impact of the festival himself.</p><p>"We would, of course, welcome him or his staff to come and see what it's about," Galbraith said. "If they want to see a performance with nudity, it's available. If not, they can cultivate their own experience."</p>

Calling them “sexual” festivals, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Thursday blamed the state’s theatrical Fringe Festivals for his decision to veto more than $32 million in arts and culture funding from the state budget. And he indicated the state may restrict funds for cultural nonprofits like Fringe in the future. DeSantis’s remarks, made at a news conference in Auburndale, marked the first time the ...

Gov. Ron DeSantis called the state's theatrical Fringe Festivals "sexual" He said the state may restrict funds for cultural nonprofits like Fringe in the future. Orlando Fringe interim executive director Scott Galbraith said the governor had "mischaracterized" the festival. The governor's veto, coupled with earlier cuts from the Legislature, left no money to allocate to nonprofits.

DeSantis says he vetoed state arts grants over ‘sexual’ Fringe Festivals

<p>Looking for the top stories featured on the June 27 episode of our Palm Beach County News in 90 Seconds? See the story blurbs/links below.</p><h2>A Southern-inspired restaurant with a soulful New Orleans-style opens in Boca Raton</h2><p>A beloved bar and restaurant in Boca Raton's Mizner Park has been revamped, reopening recently as a quaint eatery specializing in Southern-inspired cuisine with a soulful New Orleans-style twist.</p><p>Well-known South Florida-based hospitality group Sub-Culture quietly opened the doors to its eighth Palm Beach County establishment on June 15, a move that follows the recent opening of El Segundo in West Palm Beach , with still more concepts set to come online in the coming months.</p><p>Dubbed Penelope, the restaurant — located in the space formerly occupied by the original Kapow! Noodle Bar at 431 Plaza Real — is now open for dinner daily, with plans to expand hours with lunch and weekend brunch in the coming weeks.</p><p> Tap here for the full story. </p><h2>Outdoor ice skating in West Palm Beach? Luxury hotel plans to open a rink in November</h2><p>This winter — or what passes for winter in these sun-kissed parts — revelers could have the opportunity to rent some blades and glide across the ice of a downtown West Palm Beach outdoor skating rink that would be open to the general public.</p><p>The Ben Hotel wants to use open space next to Elizabetta's Ristorante, on Banyan Boulevard, to build a temporary rink that could accommodate 78 skaters who would, presumably, not quickly find themselves in need of scuba gear or a life preserver.</p><p>West Palm Beach's Community Redevelopment Agency, which uses taxpayer money to rebuild distressed areas of the city, owns the property and would have to approve plans for a rink.</p><p> Tap here for the full story. </p><h2>JetBlue's new nonstop flights between New York and (PBI) West Palm, other Florida cities</h2><p>Starting in October, JetBlue , the New-York-based airline will begin daily nonstop service from Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) to Orlando and four-time weekly service to Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach (PBI) . While JetBlue already flies out of John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), LaGuardia Airport (LGA), and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), these are the first flights to LI MacArthur (ISP).</p><p>Tickets are on sale now.</p><p> Tap here for the full story </p><p>Diamond Walker is a journalist at The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at . Help support our journalism. Subscribe today </p>

Palm Beach County News in 90 gives a 90-second rundown of the latest local headlines: Southern-food restaurant opens in Boca; Skating rink planned for West Palm.

Penelope, a Southern-inspired restaurant with a soulful New Orleans-style opens in Boca Raton. Luxury hotel plans to open a rink in West Palm Beach in November. JetBlue will begin daily nonstop service from Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) to Orlando in October.

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