In a discovery echoing the myths of yore, a 700-year-old sword has been found embedded in a rock at the bottom of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Vrbas River.
According to Indy 100, a recent archaeological find in Bosnia has stirred imaginations worldwide, drawing parallels to the legendary Excalibur of King Arthur.
The sword was unearthed 36 feet underwater near the medieval ruins of a castle close to the village of Zvecaj. This region is rich in historical artifacts, but the find of such a sword in this context is particularly unusual.
Ivana Pandzic, an archaeologist and curator at the Museum of the Republika Srpska, oversaw the extraction. She emphasized the careful approach required, stating, "The sword was stuck in a solid rock, so special care was needed when pulling it out." It was a delicate operation to preserve both the artifact and its unique surroundings.
The Vrbas River, known for its fast-flowing currents and historic significance in the region, has long been a site of interest for archaeologists. The discovery nearby of the medieval city Zvecaj, referenced in historical texts, adds to the intrigue surrounding the sword’s presence.
This particular sword, estimated to date back to the 14th century, represents a rare type of medieval weapon only seen once before in the Balkan region. The craftsmanship and preservation of the sword suggest it may have belonged to a person of high status or nobility, who likely resided in the now-ruined castle.
The castle's history, destroyed in the 18th century, and its proximity to the find, play a crucial role in understanding the potential origins of the sword. Experts speculate that it could have been intentionally placed as part of a ceremony or lost during a historical conflict, possibly relating to the castle's inhabitants.
Archaeologists continue to investigate how the sword wound up embedded in solid rock. The peculiar placement of the weapon raises numerous questions about the events leading to its riverbed entrapment and whether this was an outcome of natural occurrences or human intention.
The discovery of the sword in such a mythical position has captured the public’s imagination. Comparisons to King Arthur’s Excalibur are inevitable, given the legendary tales of the sword in the stone that only the rightful king could remove. Like the Arthurian tale, this sword found in a stone challenges our perceptions of history and myth.
According to legend, King Arthur of the 5th and 6th centuries was able to draw Excalibur, affirming his right to the throne. The story symbolizes Arthur's legitimacy as Britain's true king and is a cornerstone of Arthurian literature. The parallels between this medieval literature and the current find enrich the cultural tapestry of Europe’s past.
This sword, however, offers a tangible link to the past, its origin wrapped in the mystery of its impressive discovery location. As researchers continue to piece together the sword's history, each finding contributes to our understanding of medieval European warfare, nobility, and folklore.
The efforts of Pandzic and her team at the Museum of the Republika Srpska will not end with the extraction. Further research will delve into the metallurgical composition of the sword, which can offer clues to its manufacturer and possibly its original owner.
With only two similar discoveries in nearly a century, the sword’s significance extends beyond its initial retrieval. Its preservation and study could illuminate details about medieval life that have long been speculated but never confirmed.
The sword is now housed under the careful guardianship of the museum, where it serves as a critical piece of cultural heritage and a testament to the layers of history embedded within the Balkans’ landscape. As the research progresses, the story of this sword has the potential to revise chapters of medieval history books, proving once again the value of archaeology in uncovering our shared past.
In a recent episode of "Jeopardy!", contestant Heather Ryan highlighted a clue she found misogynistic, sparking a candid acknowledgment from the show's host, Ken Jennings.
According to USA Today, This incident brings attention to the sensitive nature of content presented in widely viewed media.
The controversy arose during the October 28 broadcast of the renowned quiz show. Hosted by Ken Jennings, the game included a moment that became particularly notable for being out of touch with modern sensibilities. Heather Ryan, a contestant at that time, felt a specific clue carried misogynistic undertones.
The clue in question was based on a rhyming phrase from Dorothy Parker's poem: "Men seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses." It was delivered in front of Ryan—who was not only the sole woman on stage but was also wearing glasses—making the moment stand out awkwardly.
Ryan described the atmosphere following the clue's reveal as uncomfortable, noting that it seemed to affect everyone involved, including the audience and Ken Jennings himself. Reacting to the visible discomfort, Jennings quickly apologized during the show, commenting that the moment was "a little problematic."
This interaction was set against the backdrop of Ryan's participation, which she described as stemming from her appreciation for the show's cultural significance. She had eagerly joined the show, recalling the joy she felt when she received the invitation to participate.
While the specific moment brought an uncomfortable pause to the game, Ryan expressed that her overall experience on "Jeopardy!" was enjoyable. She noted the welcoming nature of the team and described her interactions with fellow contestants, including Ian Taylor and four-day champion Will Wallace, as positive.
The line "Men seldom make passes at girls who wear glasses," originates from a 1920's poem by Dorothy Parker. Although meant humorously at the time, such phrases can have different connotations in today's context, particularly when placed in an impromptu and public stage setting.
Despite finishing the game in second place with winnings of $19,600, just $1 short of the win, Ryan reflected on the broader importance of being visually accommodated, like wearing glasses for proper eyesight. She highlighted that seeing well should be prioritized over outdated stereotypes concerning physical appearances.
Her concerns resonate further, acknowledging that comments or jokes of such nature might affect younger audiences, particularly middle school girls who might feel discouraged from wearing glasses due to similar antiquated notions, potentially impacting their education.
Post filming, which took place earlier in the summer in Los Angeles, Ryan and other contestants kept in touch, a testament to the bonds formed during their shared experience on this iconic game show. Her reflection on the incident has been part of a broader discussion about content sensitivity and the need for modernization in media presentations.
As the game show continues to hold a place in American culture, "Jeopardy!" and its host's responsiveness to contestant feedback, as demonstrated by Jennings' immediate apology, could foster a more inclusive atmosphere. This incident may also serve as a pivotal point for the show's approach to how content is crafted and delivered in future episodes.
The dialogue about the representation of women and the perpetuation of stereotypes, even in subtle forms such as a game show clue, underscores ongoing societal conversations on gender and media influence. It also highlights the need for continuous evolution in how media content intersects with changing societal values.
In a shocking accident that highlights a common and dangerous mix-up, Brianne Shipley from Florida experienced severe pain after mistakenly applying nail glue to her eye, thinking it was eye drops.
Brianne Shipley's painful ordeal began when she accidentally used nail glue instead of eye drops, resulting in a frantic hospital visit, Daily Mail reported.
Shipley, a resident of Florida, dealt with her low blood sugar due to type 2 diabetes when the incident occurred. A notification prompted her to treat her eye, leading her to make the distressing mistake. As she applied the drops, she noticed the unusual texture of the bottle and realized the error immediately upon contact, but it was too late to avoid the pain.
Describing the intensity of the pain, Shipley said, "It was just burning, on fire; it felt like rocks in my eye." In a panic, she screamed and tried to call for emergency assistance while attempting to wash out the offending substance herself.
The situation required a swift drive to the emergency room, where medical personnel quickly attended to her. They immediately treated her by using Q-tips to manually remove glue chunks and a Morgan Lens to continuously flush her eye with water. During this process, they gave Shipley pain medication to manage the unbearable discomfort.
In the ER, the medical team swiftly worked to mitigate damage to Shipley’s eye. They administered ointments and scheduled further check-ups to assess potential long-term impacts on her vision, which remained slightly blurry after the incident.
After a night in care, doctors discharged Shipley with instructions for eye care and future appointments. She returned to the hospital for a follow-up check-up to confirm the recovery progress of her injured eye.
The alarming event gained significant attention after Shipley shared her experience on TikTok, where it received over 2 million views. Many users commented on her post, expressing astonishment at the frequency of such mix-ups and concern over the similarity in packaging between eye drops and nail glue bottles.
The overwhelming response on social media indicated that this type of accident is more common than many might think. Shipley herself was informed by doctors of the frequent nature of such mix-ups. "Doctors told her when she was admitted that the accident was 'more common' than many believe," Shipley recalled in her account of the ordeal.
In response to the incident, viewers of Shipley’s video expressed disbelief and concern, underlining the need for distinctive packaging for such products to prevent future incidents. This sentiment was echoed by multiple commenters who were surprised that changes have not already been made to bottle designs to differentiate them more clearly.
The Arizona Poison Centers have weighed in on the matter, advising individuals who experience similar accidents to visit a healthcare facility immediately. They emphasized that professional medical treatment is crucial for avoiding permanent damage to the eyes.
Experts discourage attempting to remedy such accidents at home, stressing the importance of professional intervention. The use of the Morgan Lens and other medical procedures in the ER highlights the adequacy of hospital resources in handling these emergencies.
Fortunately, according to statements from medical professionals and the Poison Centers, there have been no documented cases of permanent damage due to similar incidents, provided that the victims seek immediate care.
Shipley awaits further medical examination to determine any lingering effects on her vision but remains hopeful of a full recovery. Her story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance and caution when handling and storing household substances, particularly those in similar containers.
New York City liquor stores experienced a significant surge in sales this Election Day as residents prepared for varied presidential election outcomes.
According to the New York Post, Liquor stores across the city were bustling as customers stocked up on both celebratory and consolatory beverages.
On this pivotal Tuesday, patrons flocked to their local liquor stores, grabbing bottles of sparkling wine and various liquors to brace for the election results. Notably, customers were purchasing these items in pairs — one to toast a victory and the other possibly to ease a loss. This trend paints a vivid picture of the city’s palpable tension and uncertainty surrounding the electoral outcomes.
According to Sebastian from the Juice Box in Brooklyn, the atmosphere was extraordinary. “People were buying sparkling wine and a bottle of liquor for both [outcomes],” he said, highlighting the dual propensity for hope and despair among his customers. His experience echoes a citywide phenomenon where locals were gearing up for a night of emotional extremes.
Niccolo Porcello, an employee at Amaro Spirits & Wine in Park Slope, also noted an unusual rush not just on Election Day, but throughout the preceding weekend. “People were stocking up all weekend too, because it was busy,” Porcello recounted. He estimated the store’s business increased three to fourfold compared to a regular weekday.
Similarly, Edgar from Village Wine & Spirit Shop acknowledged that heightened sales during elections aren’t unusual. “Every election, it’s like that,” he remarked, indicating a recurring trend where elections tend to boost alcohol sales as New Yorkers prepare to watch the results unfold.
As the voting concluded and evening approached, many stores saw a last-minute surge in customer numbers. Brandon Knapp of Flatiron Wines & Spirits in Manhattan witnessed increasingly anxious patrons towards the day’s end. “It was kind of slow during the day, but towards the end of the day everybody came in like, ‘I’m so stressed.’ [During] the last two hours, we had lines — and we had three salespeople working... we’ve been spending hours just restocking,” he shared.
The anticipation of an ongoing demand post-election was apparent among store owners as well. Shawn Lowecki, the owner of Shawn Fine Wines & Spirits in Park Slope, prepared for continued high sales by securing extra inventory. His assistant buyer, Gabor Molnar, confirmed that Tuesday’s sales were significantly above the norm, reaching three to four times the sales of a typical weekday.
Interestingly, the post-election day did not see a decrease in the need for alcohol. Lowecki pointed out that even though people weren’t overtly anxious, many seemed to have taken a day off work, possibly to recover from the night’s events or continue their private celebrations or commiserations.
The varied customer reactions continued into the following day. Sebastian from the Juice Box gave an insight into the day after, unsure of what the day held. “I have no idea if people will be drowning their sorrows or celebrating or just not coming in altogether,” he expressed his uncertainty about the prevailing mood post-election.
The unique way New Yorkers prepared for the election results with alcohol purchases reflects the city’s vibrant and diverse culture. This phenomenon highlights how significant events in the political realm resonate through everyday activities and consumer behavior. Each election brings not only political outcomes but also distinct shifts in local economies, notably in sectors like retail.
As New Yorkers continue to navigate through the unfolding political landscape, local businesses like liquor stores play a crucial role in accommodating the city’s collective mood swings. These establishments have become more than just places to buy beverages; they are barometers of societal sentiment, reflecting public optimism and anxiety through their sales trends.
In conclusion, while the presidential elections determine the country’s leadership, they also significantly influence local economies and social practices. One thing remains clear: whether in joy or sorrow, New Yorkers face election results with a glass in hand, ready to celebrate or soothe their spirits, illustrating the enduring human spirit amid uncertainty.
Queen Margrethe of Denmark, age 84, made her public comeback by presenting a prestigious award at Christiansborg Palace two months after a fall hospitalized her.
Queen Margrethe's appearance at the award ceremony marked her first public engagement since her accident, Daily Mail reported.
In January earlier this year, Queen Margrethe abdicated the throne in favor of her son, King Frederik, after 52 years of reign. She succeeded her father in 1972, marking a significant and long tenure as Denmark's monarch. Her health influenced her decision to step down, as recent events and past discussions surrounding her back surgery and the responsibilities of the monarchy indicated.
In her first engagement since the abdication and the fall, Queen Margrethe attended the ceremony for the Ebbe Munck award at Christiansborg Palace on a Tuesday. The palace, long a hub of royal and political activity in Copenhagen, provided a fitting backdrop for her return to public duties.
The Queen suffered injuries, including a fractured left hand and damaged neck vertebrae, after falling at Fredensborg Castle in September. Doctors hospitalized her for a day, and she has been recuperating in private leading up to the recent public appearance. Despite these challenges, she appeared in good spirits during the ceremony.
At the award presentation, Queen Margrethe wore a blue silk blazer and matching dress, supported by a walking stick. Observers noted the absence of a cast on her arm, suggesting that she had recovered enough to regain some mobility and normalcy in her appearance.
The Ebbe Munck Award, established in 1975, holds personal significance to Queen Margrethe, being aligned with her interests in fields such as fashion. The award honors individuals who excel in areas that resonate with the Queen's personal and professional affinities, encapsulating a blend of cultural and intellectual pursuits.
During her appearance, Queen Margrethe exhibited both composure and determination. Her involvement in the presentation underscored not just a physical recovery but a re-engagement with her lifelong pursuits of fostering cultural and intellectual contributions to Danish society.
King Frederik has been publicly supportive of his mother during her recovery. "We take it day by day," he commented to reporters, emphasizing the cautious approach advised by medical professionals. His involvement has been a crucial element of the transition period following the abdication.
In a meaningful interaction with the media, Queen Margrethe shared insights into her current state, "If you feel good enough, then you feel good enough," reflecting her resilience and ongoing recovery. She added, "Even though I have now fallen down a flight of stairs and am not quite as mobile as I used to be, I feel well enough," showcasing her enduring spirit despite physical setbacks.
The decision to abdicate was a monumental one, publicly announced by Queen Margrethe during her New Year’s Eve speech. "I have decided that now is the right time. On January 14, 2024, 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark," she declared, marking a planned and thoughtful transition to the next generation.
Reflecting on her back surgery and the decision to abdicate, Margrethe disclosed, "It went well, thanks to the skilled healthcare staff who took care of me. The operation also gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation," showing her reflective approach towards a significant change in her life and the monarchy.
Queen Margrethe's return to the public eye is not only a note of her recovery but also signals her ongoing engagement with the duties she holds dear. While she has passed the sovereign torch to King Frederik, her active participation in events such as the Ebbe Munck Award presentation illustrates her continued influence and commitment to the nation's cultural life.
As Denmark's royal family continues to navigate these changes, the balance of public duties and personal health remains a key focus. The royal household, under King Frederik's leadership, is expected to uphold the traditions and responsibilities that Queen Margrethe has championed throughout her reign.
Mark Longo, from Pine City, New York, grieves and prepares legally after state environmental officers violently killed his pet squirrel.
In a distressing conflict with wildlife authorities, an Upstate New York resident's pet squirrel was seized and decapitated for rabies testing, sparking a planned lawsuit and funeral, the New York Post reported.
Mark Longo and his wife, Daniela, originally found the squirrel they named P'Nut when he was just an orphaned pup. They attempted to rehabilitate and release him back into the wild; however, P'Nut refused to leave. This strong bond ultimately led the couple to fully welcome P'Nut into their home, where he became more than a pet over the subsequent seven years. In fact, he became a beloved member of their family, known for his playful spirit and distinctive wardrobe, which included tiny cowboy hats.
Years after their move from Connecticut, where they first met P'Nut, the Longos established a 350-acre animal sanctuary in Pine City, New York. They continued their commitment to animal care, taking in another pet, a raccoon named Fred, alongside P'Nut. However, an anonymous tip soon led the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) to their doorstep, and they received a complaint about the illegal harboring of wildlife.
The seizure then turned confrontational when DEC officers claimed P'Nut bit one of them. This alleged incident, which occurred during the forceful removal of the animals, led to the immediate euthanization of both P'Nut and Fred. The DEC explained that the procedure required decapitation to test brain tissue for rabies.
Longo discovered the fate of his beloved pets not through any direct communication with the DEC but via a media report. Shocked and saddened, he expressed his dismay about the government's handling of the situation. Mark stated, "I found out my animals were murdered through a news station. As a New York State citizen, my government had my animals murdered and couldn’t call me to tell me what happened. I had to read it in a newspaper."
The agency failed to return the bodies of P'Nut and Fred or provide any results from the rabies tests, which deepened Longo's grief. Mark noted, "But seven days later, the body hasn’t been returned. No results of rabies tests have been given." This uncertainty and lack of communication fueled his desire to take legal action.
The Longo family's ordeal cut deep, sparking a myriad of emotions and a determination to seek justice. Mark emphasized, "This is much bigger than a squirrel and a raccoon. This is about government overreach," and declared, "You violated my home. You assassinated my animals."
As an initial step in his legal battle, Longo retained Nora Marino, an attorney, and began reaching out to other individuals who might have faced similar government actions. He urges those with comparable grievances to come forward: "If it’s happened to you — if you know anyone it’s happened to — please reach out, we need to call for action."
Meanwhile, while Mark advocates for his and others' rights, sympathy from the community has poured in. A human funeral home even offered its services free of charge for P'Nut's funeral. The planned ceremony aims to provide P'Nut a proper burial, giving a voice to his beloved pet and, in Mark's view, shedding light on governmental overreaches. In Mark's words, "This should have never happened to begin with. But in a way, I’m glad it did. Because it gave P'Nut the voice to shed light on what’s going on in our government."
In response, the DEC has refrained from commenting on this specific case due to the ongoing litigation. However, this silence does little to ease the concerns of the Longos and others who fear that complaints can lead too swiftly to severe actions with irreversible outcomes. Mark questions, "What is stopping average Joe from calling and complaining about your neighbor now? If you complain enough, can you get a search warrant? When does it end?"
As the lawsuit preparations continue and the community rallies around the issue, Mark Longo remains steadfast in his quest for answers and accountability. He concludes, "Somebody needs to be held accountable for the massive overreach in power." Ultimately, he hopes that P'Nut's tragic story will promote greater scrutiny and reform in how authorities manage wildlife issues.
Amid the routine hustle of Election Day, an unexpected confrontation unfolded at Oceanside School 3 on Long Island, leading to the arrest of a poll worker.
A poll worker on Long Island was apprehended after assaulting a voter and impersonating a law enforcement officer, sparking disbelief among witnesses, the New York Post reported.
At approximately 3:19 p.m., chaos erupted when Mark Sebesta, a 54-year-old from Baldwin known for his erratic behavior that day, escalated a confrontation with a voter.
Witnesses reported that Sebesta's behavior was bizarre throughout the day, noting his multiple outfit changes and insistence on being left alone. The situation escalated when Sebesta physically confronted a 25-year-old voter. He not only grabbed and shoved the individual but also launched into a heated exchange.
Further adding to the tension, Sebesta claimed he was a federal agent and even flashed a gold badge and handcuffs to those present.
Police officers responded to the scene and tried to defuse the situation, but Sebesta resisted. In the ensuing struggle, he shoved an officer, resisted arrest, and the officers finally subdued him and took him into custody.
Subsequently, authorities charged Sebesta with several offenses, including criminal impersonation, obstruction of governmental administration, menacing, and harassment. They have scheduled his next court appearance for November 20.
The Nassau County Police Department confirmed that Sebesta had no affiliations with any law enforcement agency, debunking his claims of being a Secret Service or undercover narcotics agent.
Earlier in the day, Sebesta boasted to a custodian about his supposed roles in law enforcement, showing off an NYPD hat and handcuffs to enhance his fabricated identity.
After the incident, Sebesta took to Instagram to air his grievances and make astonishing statements. In his posts, he claimed that Nassau County Police had assaulted him because of his Jewish identity.
Further escalating his rhetoric, Sebesta made financial threats against Nassau County and the Oceanside school district, demanding $1.5 million for alleged wrongs.
In a bizarre twist, Sebesta expressed his intention to run for president in 2028 through his social media channels. His videos depict a man troubled and disillusioned, yet harboring grand political ambitions. While Sebesta's actions disturbed and concerned officials, they, nevertheless, noted that no injuries or delays occurred in the voting process at Oceanside School 3.
As the community reflects on the unsettling events of Election Day, questions, consequently, linger about the circumstances that led to such unexpected and alarming behavior in the peaceful setting of a polling station.
This incident, therefore, serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of public interactions and the crucial need for communities to carefully vet and train individuals placed in positions of authority at polling stations.
With Sebesta’s court date looming, many eagerly await answers and a resolution to an episode that, in turn, disrupted not only the peace of Election Day but also the trust in the security of local polling environments.
Concerns are mounting as astronaut Sunita Williams appears markedly thinner after an extended stay aboard the International Space Station (ISS), and complications have hospitalized several of her fellow astronauts.
In a dual mystery involving U.S. astronauts, NASA is grasping public concerns regarding weight loss experienced by one astronaut aboard the ISS and undisclosed health issues facing others recently returned to Earth, Daily Mail reported.
Sunita Williams has remained on the ISS for over half a year. A photograph taken on September 24 recently showcased her significantly gaunter appearance, sparking widespread concern over her health. Meanwhile, astronaut Barry Wilmore is accompanying Williams on this extended expedition in space, and both are scheduled to remain aboard until SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission can facilitate their return in early 2025.
Observers outside NASA’s inner circle, meanwhile, have found Williams’s physical condition particularly alarming. Specifically, her noticeable weight loss in the September photo suggests the potential hardships of prolonged space habitation. Nevertheless, NASA officials assure the public that ISS flight surgeons closely monitor Sunita’s health with regular assessments.
In addition, concerns have risen for four astronauts from the Crew-8 mission, who were hospitalized following their return from a 232-day mission in space. This incident occurred as they touched down on Earth on October 25. Notably, a medical issue required one of the astronauts to stay in the hospital overnight, while evaluations allowed the other three to be released the same day.
NASA has, however, reserved details about the medical issues the Crew-8 astronauts encountered, neither revealing the nature of their conditions nor their identities. While this secrecy preserves patient confidentiality, it also fuels speculation about the potential effects of extended time in zero gravity on human physiology.
Furthermore, living in space presents unique challenges to human health, as zero gravity causes significant physiological changes. These changes include not only reduced bone density and muscle mass loss but also variations in vision and kidney function, potentially leading to complications like kidney stones.
Medical expert Dr. Vinay Gupta weighed in on Williams's health condition, noting that the sunken appearance of Williams's cheeks might suggest a prolonged caloric deficit. "What you're seeing there in that picture is somebody who I think is experiencing the natural stresses of living at a very high altitude, even in a pressurized cabin, for extended periods," Gupta said.
Despite concerns, Dr. Gupta remained cautiously optimistic about the immediate threat to Williams's health based on her photos alone. "I don't think she's quite at a place where I would say her life's in danger, but I don't think you can look at that photo and say she has a healthy body weight," Gupta explained, emphasizing the potential severity of her situation.
In alignment with expert views, NASA spokesperson Jimi Russell reassured the public about the ongoing health surveillance strategies for astronauts like Williams. "All NASA astronauts aboard the International Space Station undergo routine medical evaluations, have dedicated flight surgeons monitoring them, and are in good health," Russell stated, emphasizing the comprehensive care provided to those on space missions.
In response to the public scrutiny, NASA continues to emphasize the breadth of its health monitoring protocols, which include regular medical check-ups. These measures, therefore, aim to mitigate the inherent risks posed by space environments and ensure astronauts' well-being throughout their missions.
Williams's and the Crew-8 astronauts' situations, meanwhile, highlight the broader conversation about the risks of long-term space missions. As agencies like NASA strive for further exploration of outer space, including potential missions to Mars, they will, consequently, prioritize astronauts' health and safety, which will remain a key subject of public interest.
As the Crew-9 mission prepares for Williams and Wilmore’s safe return, the space community watches keenly, hopeful for continued advancements in space health and safety protocols that could, in turn, pave the way for the next era of human space exploration.
Despite the challenges astronauts face, their perseverance endures, supported by the rigorous assistance and advanced technological backing from their teams on Earth, all working together to secure humanity’s future in space, both near and distant.
Michael Arnold, the grandson of acclaimed photojournalist Eve Arnold, recently shared poignant details from his grandmother's deep relationship and professional partnership with Marilyn Monroe, revealing intimate aspects of the star's life and career struggles.
According to Daily Mail, the new insights coincide with the release of a republished book and an exhibition of Eve Arnold's photography in London, focusing on her role in shaping Monroe into an international icon.
Eve Arnold met Marilyn Monroe in 1952 at a Hollywood party. Eve, a UK photojournalist known for her candid portraits, caught Monroe's attention with her work featuring Marlene Dietrich. Monroe, impressed by Eve’s skill, approached her with the idea of shaping her public image.
"Marilyn came to trust Eve. Because of that, Eve was able to get pictures of her that were more candid, more real..." Michael shared, highlighting the trust that formed the foundation of their collaboration. This trust allowed Eve to capture some of Monroe’s most vulnerable moments, setting a foundation for a decade-long working relationship that continued until Monroe's untimely death in 1962.
Eve Arnold's photographs of Monroe helped cement the actress’s status as a major star. Their professional relationship developed alongside a growing personal bond, with Monroe often confiding in Eve about her insecurities and mental health challenges.
"Marilyn would say to Eve, 'Let’s make Marilyn.' She was very clear on the vision that she had and what she wanted to look like," Michael explained. This strategic partnership involved Monroe both in front of the camera and behind the scenes, deliberately crafting her public persona.
The transformation wasn’t always easy for Monroe. During the filming of "The Misfits" in 1961, she struggled immensely. Michael recounted, "'The film was intended to be her move into more serious acting, and her childhood hero, Clark Gable, was one of the actors in it. She felt quite intimidated because quite often they would change the lines in the scene she was about to play."
Despite her glamorous image, Monroe faced many personal battles. "There was a vulnerable side to Marilyn,” Michael emphasized. Eve Arnold captured these complexities, portraying Monroe not just as a sex symbol but as a multifaceted individual who was also a savvy businesswoman.
"Eve wanted to show the savvy businesswoman that Marilyn was as well. She was often seen as just a sex symbol but she was so clear and focused," Michael highlighted, pointing out Monroe's shrewdness and intelligence. Monroe's commitment to self-education and role modeling after successful actresses shaped her deliberate transformation into a star.
Marilyn Monroe's death in 1962 from acute barbiturate poisoning, ruled as a probable suicide, marked a tragic end to her and Eve's collaboration. Following Monroe’s death, Eve Arnold took great care to protect the images from being exploited by the press. Over time, she decided to share these more intimate portrayals, offering a new perspective on Monroe’s life.
Eve Arnold passed away in 2012 at the age of 99, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate through her photographs. To honor his grandmother, Michael Arnold has republished her book featuring over 100 images of Monroe, which provide a deeper look into her life beyond the camera.
An exhibition of Eve Arnold’s work, including her stunning photos of Marilyn Monroe, is currently on display in London from November 7 until November 20, 2024. This exhibition not only celebrates Arnold’s contributions to photography but also revisits the profound influence she had on one of Hollywood’s most enduring icons.
According to Fox News, Kathleen Hennings celebrated her 105th birthday by raising a glass of Guinness, a drink she claims has contributed significantly to her longevity.
Kathleen Hennings celebrated her 105th birthday on October 2 at Care UK's Sandfields retirement home, surrounded by friends and fellow residents. She credits her remarkable longevity to a daily habit she has maintained for years—enjoying a pint of Guinness.
Hennings started her Guinness routine in her late teens in London, introduced by her family. "In my late teens, I joined my brother and parents for a Guinness with their evening meals," Hennings recalled. This early introduction sparked her lifelong love for the Irish stout, which she describes as "a perfect match for every meal."
She has continued this daily tradition, especially enjoying a pint with her midday meal. Her consistency with this habit connects her youthful days in London directly to her serene life in the retirement home.
Sandfields celebrated Hennings' birthday with festive cheer, and she expressed joy over her special day. Reflecting on the birthday bash, she said, "I've been spoiled." The party featured a menu that naturally included Guinness, along with gifts tailored to her tastes and needs: pint glasses, a kitchen apron, slippers, and generous servings of chocolate.
The home’s head chef added a sweet touch to the day by presenting Hennings with a custom-made birthday cake. The thoughtful gifts and the familiar, bitter taste of Guinness made the celebration memorable for her.
Hennings has journeyed through life with a richness and variety as deep as her love for frothy Guinness. While growing up in London, she frequently attended operas and ballets, gradually nurturing a passion for the arts. Over time, these experiences built her foundation of cultural appreciation, which she remarkably maintained even through the upheavals of World War II.
After the war, she eventually moved to the Cotswolds with her mother, brother, and their dachshund, leaving behind the city's hustle for the quiet of country life. This change marked a new chapter for her, allowing her to fully embrace the tranquility and slower pace of her new environment.
At Sandfields, staff and residents alike see Hennings as an inspiration, not only for her long life but also for her approach to community and engagement. Richard Lott, a staff member at the home, praised her spirit, calling her "inspirational, not just for reaching an amazing milestone but because she is polite, gracious, kindhearted, and very active." His words, therefore, underscore the respect and admiration that Hennings commands among her peers.
Whether through her daily enjoyment of Guinness or her sociable and active lifestyle, Hennings offers a unique glimpse into a life well-lived. Moreover, her simple yet profound advice on longevity resonates with clarity: "Drink Guinness and don't marry." Those words, reflecting her mix of humor and experience, continue to influence and entertain everyone around her.
As Kathleen Hennings continues to live each day to the fullest at Sandfields, her story stands as a testament to the unpredictable and joyful elements that weave together the tapestry of a long life. For her, perhaps Guinness is indeed more than just a drink—it's a lifelong friend that has journeyed through decades of change and celebration.