Infini Magazine April 2020 Issue 6 by infinimagazine

The coronavirus, or Covid-19 is a pandemic that’s taken over the entire globe. It’s damaging many aspects of life, including the simple things like going to school and work, or having a meal with a friend. In fashion, there are many events and releases each and every year, but, like the other areas of life, fashion is being attacked by this rapid pandemic. Here’s how the virus is affecting production, retail shopping, and online shopping in the fashion industry, and my personal clothing experience. The virus is causing businesses in fashion to shut down for a while. Many companies such as Sephora, Macy’s, Ralph Lauren, H&M, and Nike have closed their retail stores in all affected locations for a few weeks or until it’s considered safe to reopen them by the government and medical experts. Some stores are just cutting down hours or having private appointments and curbside delivery after they've closed their shops. Some companies have given pay and or benefits to their employees during the break, however some can’t even afford to do so, and others are just trying to decide if they should or not. Some stores said that they won’t hold the amount of time off against employees. Stores such as Sephora are trying to keep the wheels turning and therefore have corporate workers working from home. Many of the companies acknowledge that closing can be bad for business, but are showing that they are more concerned about the virus and the health of everyone than the wealth, status, acclamation, etc. of their companies and products. Some places started preparing when they noticed the start of the pandemic and the effects it could have if it got worse. Places like H&M had been shifting work schedules, shortening store hours, cleaning the stores thoroughly, prohibiting trying on clothes, and more for weeks before most companies even completely shut down. These treatments are being placed in offices and factories, too. Some companies already had plans in store for emergencies like this. They have created or are creating business plans and are using savings and funds from the success of previous years. They also steadily educate themselves on the pandemic and its effects. Things like store openings, factory tours, and more are being postponed. Many factories are closed down because of lack of materials, less orders, and the quarantine rules. Events, too, are being canceled. According to the source Buro, the Chanel Cruise 2021 show in Capri, Seoul and Tokyo Fashion Weeks, Gucci's Cruise 2021 show in San Francisco, Ralph Lauren's Autumn 2020 show in New York, and Max Mara's Cruise 2021 show in Saint Petersburg were cancelled. They stated that Versace's Cruise 2021 show in the United States, Giorgio Armani's Cruise 2021 show in Dubai, Chanel's Métiers d'Art 2020 show in Beijing, Prada's Cruise 2021 show in Japan, and Copenhagen Fashion Summit have been postponed. Fashion Week in El Paseo, the annual Met Gala, and L.A. Fashion week were also postponed. The announcement that gatherings with fifty plus people can not go on for eight weeks is what could be forcing shut downs, but otherwise it’s out of best interest of the companies’ and events’ employees, audiences, etc. Some businesses are trying to stay stable or progressive by using technology to provide some sort of service. Vera Wang Bridal, for example, is still taking inquiries by email, and many companies are selling things online. When it comes to online shopping, you’d think the coronavirus would boost online sales. Instead, the amount of apps downloaded for the biggest fashion stores have plummeted.

Stores like Walmart that sell necessities are increasing in the amount of people who are getting their apps. Some people think the reason behind this is that people are prioritizing on what to spend in case they lose jobs, money, good health, and more things that would leave them without important survival needs. It’s also possible that people don’t see buying new clothes as a necessity during this time due to many being on quarantine at home, where they don’t have to get all dressed up. However, companies, especially small ones who really have no other choice, are still leaving the option of online shopping available to consumers. The businesses that already have a big social media and or internet influence weren't as hesitant to close down their retail stores for safety and set up online Some of these businesses are adding promos to attract more customers to online shopping, and are also allowing shopping through platforms like phone calls, text messages, FaceTime, Instagram and more. Some designers and companies are even trying to host events, showcase collections, and more with technology, such as Shanghai Fashion Week that’s being broadcasted online. This virus has definitely taken a toll on me personally. It’s very serious, and I’m getting frustrated with people who are being insensitive and so persistent in being out and about when this is a real situation. I have anxiety, and negativity brings my morale down, so of course the virus is badly affecting me. It’s saddening and I feel like we’re helpless and inconvenienced, but I’m trying to stay optimistic and pray. The virus is also affecting the apparel I buy. I actually haven’t gone to stores to buy anything but necessities ever since before we even had to stay home; going to school and to the stores to get necessities was bad enough. Going to the stores to buy garments is unnecessary since we’ll be home for a while. I have clothes to wear, and they don’t have to be special, just clean. Shopping in stores as this virus grows is also bad because it can be transmitted to me and my loved ones, or we could spread it if we were carriers because this virus is in the air for hours, and on some surfaces even longer. There are people going to places with masks, but I’ve heard that masks only help those who already have it not spread it, and that it’s ineffective when it comes to not contracting it from someone else. I’ve also heard that some gloves actually attract the virus even more than your hands. I could shop for clothing online, but delivery could also give me the virus due to workers having to touch the products (if they were made before the virus, because if not, that means twice the touching), and workers having to deliver it with a whole process. Unless we have portals or completely robot-controlled factories, delivery could be just as bad and if not, worse than store shopping. However, to stay into fashion, I’m using this time to design and I might even try to create some pieces. Using this time to find ourselves and possibly grow closer to each other, no matter how far apart, is actually a very fulfilling thing. This is all unfortunate, and it’s taking away from our daily lives, but it’s better to be safe and bored than to be happy for a moment and never be able to create more moments again. by Ajayla Self Copyright 2020

SOCIAL DISTANCING – CHANGE HAS COME This April Issue has been the most challenging as we continue to deal with the “invisible” virus that has claimed the health, life and even freedom of our lives. There has been so many topics trending on social media and the concerns of uncertainty that I really didn’t know what to place in Infini Magazine. I didn’t want to create a sad issue, since we are dealing with that as a whole, however, I couldn’t neglect covering this pandemic as if it never happened. I literally had to re-create this issue to make sure it is relevant to what is taking place. The multiple articles on 2020 and Springtime.. well…just didn’t feel authentic to me. Painting a picture of a bed of roses was not what I wanted to do when I know that is not the life we are currently living. I wanted to bring balance here. I took a stroll around my community and to see the empty parking lots of my favorite stores, the lights off, chairs turned upside down on top of the tables, no signs of school busses that usually pops out the stop sign in front of you, no long lines of cars patintly waiting for the dismissal school bell to ring – churches closed and the first time in my life, there will not be the traditional Easter programs taking place in the actual building - nothing what I had become accustomed to. WOW 2020 was supposed to be a spectacular year! My youngest had worked all school year to earn a spot as Valedictorian and now, face loosing the chance to march in a graduation that is the ultimate goal for any 8th grade student and high school senior. The thought of possibly having her 8th grade school dance, luncheon and graduation cancelled just made me sad. Knowing the possibility of Proms being cancelled and diplomas sent home in the mail is not a good feeling I’m sure. New baby arrivals coming and no one knows how long it will be before extended family members are able to see and hold the infant. The saddest part of social distancing to me, is for families and friends who have lost a loved one and can’t even put them to rest in a traditional homegoing service where many are able to pay their last respects. Yes, these are the few things that is disappointing, however, is totally understood. With this pandemic, if we do not comply, more lives will be lost and the chances for getting back to normal will go the distance. I want to encourage someone today. You may have lost your job or you may have to workl front line that places you at risk, we may miss out on birthday celebrations, anniversaries, concerts, theater, watching our highly anticipated movie on the silver screen and so many other things we expected for 2020. Technically, we’ve been social distancing lately for the most part. Many of us have been communicating with family and friends via social media. A lot of phone calls stopped, visits stopped, going out to lunch or an outing with family and friends has slowed down. We became accustomed to cyber loving more and believe God has allowed this to happen in an effort to revamp the family structure. To revamp the relationships between extended family and friends. After thinking about it, we should use this time to draw closer to God, our families and friends. This ordeal has truly shown us just how quickly things can change. I often tell my own children to try and adjust to chance. Please comply and stay home. We can make plans all day long, but believe it or not, God has the final say on everything. Keep the faith and know that some day – this too shall pass. Ametra Self 6

Making Sense of COVID-19 and Volatile Markets (BPT) - By Dan Keady, TIAA Chief Financial Planning Strategist. While the health and wellbeing of family, friends and neighbors remains top of mind, it’s perfectly normal to think about savings and investments given recent market fluctuations. It’s important to remember to stay calm and keep your eye on the horizon, as this is the nature of long-term investing; you will inevitably face ups and downs As a 100-year-old financial institution, TIAA has helped our participants through many serious events and periods of market volatility, and today is no different. Here are some answers to common questions for managing your finances and retirement plans in response to this environment.

What are some steps I can take right now to ensure my finances are in the best possible place? Now is a good time to check-in on your finances, to get a clear picture of where you stand, and how that compares to your goals or expectations. Two important aspects of your check-up should revolve around your emergency fund and asset allocation

Emergency Fund: Understand how much cash you have on hand in case of emergencies, like healthcare bills or an unexpected pay cut. While our ideal rule of thumb is to have enough savings to cover six months of living expenses, putting aside even a few hundred dollars provides cushion when you need it most. Keep the cash in a place where it is relatively safe and easy to get to quickly, like a savings account at a bank.

Asset Allocation: Take a fresh look at your portfolio to make sure your asset allocation remains in sync with your goals, the time available to achieve them and your tolerance for risk. If you are just starting out in your career and decades away from retirement, continue to put as much as you can into your retirement. Be conservative about spending do not overuse on credit cards. And most importantly, don’t get too rattled if your 401(k) or 403(b) investments decrease given your time horizon to retirement. If you’re in or nearing retirement, you have unique concerns, and increasing the proportion of your portfolio in bonds and certain guaranteed assets may help stabilize your investment income. It’s important to work with your advisor on a strategy to ensure you can weather the turbulence and allow you to have income for many years of retirement.

I have a significant amount of debt, and don’t know what to do. Regardless of the market, managing debt is one of many competing financial priorities that people navigate. It is important for debt holders to stick with their repayment plan or pay down what they can. If the unexpected happens (e.g., unemployment, illness or other events that make it impossible to pay back your loans) contact your loan servicer immediately. They may be able to modify your repayment plan based on your income or other factors. Remember to maintain cash balances where possible and continue to save and invest for the future. If I was planning to retire this year, should I consider changing my plans? While working a few extra years is a great way to build up more of a financial cushion for retirement, a market downturn will not necessarily prohibit you from retiring as planned. First, consult with a professional to ensure your drawdown strategy makes sense based on your portfolio. If you have enough sources of guaranteed income in your portfolio to cover essential expenses, you may be able to continue with your retirement plans. Social Security is likely one source, but annuities may be another option that provides guaranteed income and keeps you from having to draw down your investment accounts. Should I invest right now? 7

The answer to this really depends on your risk tolerance and financial portfolio, but keep in mind that attempting to time the market by moving your money in and out of investments to try and avoid the lows and capture the performance highs in the short term is extremely difficult in a volatile market. Even the most experienced investors get tripped up by market timing. Instead, keep your eyes on the horizon, think about the long-term and remember that past performance is no guarantee of future results. Rebalance so your portfolio remains in line with your risk tolerance, and stick with your savings plan even during volatile times it will pay off in the long run. How do I get started? If you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a financial plan yet, now is a good time to meet with a financial professional who can look at your financial situation, speak with you about your goals, and help create a plan to get there. Your TIAA advisor can evaluate whether your portfolio is built to weather market storms or if it needs shoring up so it can continue meeting your objectives. Any guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing company. Rebalancing does not protect against loss or guarantee that an investorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goals will be met. _________________________________________________________________________________________________

(BPT) - Experiencing the loss of a loved one is always difficult. In today's environment of "social distancing", we are even more challenged in finding ways to reach out and connect to those who need comfort at a time of loss. While many of us may be adapting to new everyday routines, the etiquette of expressing sympathy by and large has not changed. Here are a few helpful tips from 1-800-Flowers.com:

1. Even if you don't know the person well, saying, "I'm sorry for your loss" is always appropriate and meaningful. It's acknowledging what has happened in an honest and direct way. And lets the person know they have permission to experience any uncomfortable emotions. Read more tips on how to comfort someone who is grieving here. 2. If they haven't said anything on Facebook, neither should you. But if they have posted about it, it is appropriate to comment. Read more about the do's and don'ts on expressing condolences on social media here. 3. Due to recent regulations on large gatherings in many states due to COVID-19, many funeral services are being postponed or livestreamed over the internet making it an extraordinarily stressful time for the immediate family. If you aren't able to express your condolences in person at this time, deliveries of a gourmet food basket, houseplant or sympathy flowers to their home are appropriate ways to let them know you are thinking of them. Find these sympathy gifts and more for home delivery here. 4. And remember to support those who have experienced the loss of a loved one in recent months, and may be feeling a bit more aware right now; be it due to social distancing or an upcoming important date or anniversary. Rebecca Soffer, cofounder of Modern Loss provides some additional thoughts here. You can also explore complimentary sentiment ecards for Thinking of you and Sympathy to let them know you are thinking about them. For additional resources on sympathy and remembrance, click here. If you are in need of expressing your condolences and not sure what to send, 1-800-Flowers.com sympathy specialists can help by calling 1-866-538-2259.

(BPT) - From connectivity to cooktops and the latest gadgets, the ever-progressing kitchen of 2020 provides endless opportunities to simplify life in the home. Whether cooking for his family, hosting a dinner party or serving up Michelin-starred dishes, Chef Curtis Stone believes in cooking smarter, not harder. Having tested, mastered and embraced many of 2020’s kitchen advancements, Stone shares four ways to master the kitchen this year with maximum flavor and minimum effort.

1. What’s your favorite tool of 2020? For quite some time, the thought of bringing technology into the kitchen felt a little out of place for me. However, as someone who is always on the go, connected appliances have really become a time-saving luxury that help me find more time to dedicate to the most important things in life, like my family. What I really love about Bosch home appliances is they believe in https://www.bosch-home.com/us/experiencebosch/home-connect technology that is simple to use, which is why their Home Connect appliances are at the top of my list of 2020 kitchen necessities. It’s so convenient, I can preheat my wall oven remotely so makeahead meals are ready for the oven as soon as I get home. I also manage household chores from my smartphone, so I never have to worry about little things like reordering dishwasher detergent tabs or whether I shut off the hood lights &mdash; automations like this are kind of a dream.

2. There are so many different types of cooktops electric, induction, gas. Which do you recommend? At my restaurant, Gwen, we cook all of our meat over a traditional open flame for a straight-from-the-fire

essence and perfect char. However, it’s no secret I’m a big fan of newer methodologies like induction cooktops for faster boiling and easy cleanup. From a chef’s perspective, precision, power and efficiency are key to creating flavorful dishes that will keep your guests coming back for more. This is one of the reasons why I love the new Bosch FlameSelect gas cooktop. FlameSelect brings the accuracy of induction to the gas cooktop through nine very precise flame levels from simmering delicate sauces to achieving the perfect sear over high heat; so you never need to guess the intensity of the flame. You just select the flame level needed for your favorite recipe and prepare for great results.

3. Cooking for a crowd can be overwhelming. What’s your ultimate entertaining secret? One of my biggest tips when preparing a meal for a crowd is to keep your station (or kitchen) clean throughout the cooking process &mdash; this is a chef standard. Whether it’s a big dinner party or an intimate gathering, cleaning as you go prevents clutter that may get in your way and simplifies postmeal cleanup, which is crucial when you have guests waiting for you and your food. I love that I can place my dirty utensils, mixing bowls, and even large pots and pans right into my connected Bosch dishwasher and just carry on cooking while it does the hard work. I’m also able to start or monitor a load remotely and its quiet performance won’t disrupt the party; dishes can be out of sight and out of mind. Winner! 9

4. You recently earned a Michelin star for the seasonal dishes youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re serving up at LA-based Maude. Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s your go-to dish for springtime hosting? When hosting, I like to cook within the season and keep it simple. Seasonal fruits and vegetables always taste best at their peak and can easily turn a simple dish into something that wows. I always look forward to cooking with asparagus every spring, and after mastering the kitchen, this mouthwatering, herbed steak dinner will be ready to serve before you know it. Enjoy! Pan-Seared Ribeye Steaks with Roasted Asparagus Serves: 4 Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 10-15 minutes Ingredients: Roasted Parmesan Asparagus 1 bunch asparagus, ends trimmed 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 ounces Parmesan cheese, finely grated Lemon wedges Ingredients: Butter-Basted, Pan-Seared Ribeye Steaks 2 boneless ribeye steaks (1 inch thick; 12 ounces) Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper 2 tablespoons olive oil 4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature 4 garlic cloves, bruised 6 large sprigs fresh thyme or 2 small sprigs fresh rosemary Method Using Convection Bake, preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Place rack in center of oven. Toss asparagus in oil on a large baking sheet. Line asparagus in one even row lengthwise over sheet pan. Sprinkle Parmesan evenly. Preheat 2 large skillets on cooktop over high heat. Meanwhile, place asparagus in oven, roasting for 8-10 minutes, or until crisp-tender. Just before cooking, pat steak dry with paper towel and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add oil to hot skillets, then add steaks. Cook steaks for 4 minutes, or until dark brown and caramelized on bottom. Turn steaks over and cook for 2 minutes. Reduce heat to medium-high. Add butter, garlic, and thyme to skillets. Use spoon to baste melted butter over steaks as they cook, for about 2 more minutes for medium-rare doneness. Transfer steaks to rack set on a sheet pan and let rest for about 4 minutes (half the cooking time). Slice each steak against grain using sharp knife. Divide steak slices and roasted asparagus among 4 plates. Serve with lemon wedges

Flowers that stand the test of time (BPT) - Like classic pieces in your closet that can be worn season after season, some flowers have become staples for decorators and gardeners alike. Available in a variety of bold colors, Wave Petunias and Cool Wave Pansies are a low-maintenance must-have for creating high-impact design in outdoor spaces. Like your little black dress or your favorite pair of jeans, these versatile flowers can be styled in fresh ways to create an on-trend look that fits your space and lifestyle. Bring color to life Celebrating its 25th anniversary this year, Wave proves why it has such staying power. In 1995, the striking Wave Purple Classic became the very first Wave Petunia variety and its bold, fun color remains a top choice for adding wow-factor to hanging baskets, window boxes and gardens. As a nod to tradition, style your patio or balcony with Tidal Wave Silver petunias this year. Their luxe silvery-white blooms add a touch of glamour, similar to the timeless silver chain in your jewelry box. This award-winning flower grows mountains of color to create a showstopping look in gardens or large planters. In early spring, have fun with the wide array of colors available in pansies to kick off the season; their rich palette adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor space, in the same way that your favorite highend scarf enhances your outfit. Cool Wave Pansies are easy to care for and they encourage your family and friends to enjoy the outdoors. Beyond the garden, the best thing about petunias and pansies is that they can be styled in a variety of ways just like that classic white T-shirt you can't do without. Beyond enjoying them in your garden, you can also use these flowers for all kinds of fun DIY craft projects to add a special touch to handmade gifts, culinary creations and more. Enjoy your blooms forever and capture a precious moment in time by pressing petunia or pansy blossoms. Once dried, you can use them to create festive, one-of-a-kind greeting cards, picture frames, bookmarks or phone cases. Press some of their leaves as well, to add a color contrast to the petals. For a beautiful yet edible garnish, use pansies to add vivid pops of color to your favorite foods from fresh salads to decadent desserts. Dress up drinks by freezing pansy blossoms into ice cubes, or simply top off a beverage with a single freshly cut bloom. Like your wardrobe favorites, Wave Petunias and Cool Wave Pansies can be personally styled in modern ways each gardening season to keep up with the latest trends. Check out http://www.wavegardening.com and www.WaveGardening.com for more ways to brighten up your garden or deck this year, including DIY projects, tips and inspiration. 11

5 Tips for Better Home Safety this Spring (Family Features) As people become more active during the warmer months, keeping home safety top of mind can sometimes go by the wayside. However, when it comes to fire and carbon monoxide safety, you can never be too prepared. Whether you are just beginning to take a stronger safety-first approach or looking to upgrade existing home safety equipment, keep these tips in mind as you spruce up your home for the season. Don’t Just Check Batteries, Check the Alarm It’s a good idea to review your safety equipment and ensure everything is in good working order at least a couple times each year. For example, every type of smoke alarm must be completely replaced every 10 years whether it’s hardwired into your home or operates on a battery. New smoke alarms commonly come with built-in 10-year batteries, meaning no battery changes, but it’s a good idea to test the units regularly. In fact, most manufacturers recommend weekly. You can also use this time to double-check the gauge on your fire extinguishers, replace batteries in flashlights, test security systems and replenish first-aid kits. Inspect and Repair Outdoor Areas Set aside time to evaluate any damage or potential hazards as the weather warms. For example, fallen tree branches and leaves can become trapped in gutters and pose a fire hazard. Shutters and fences can also weaken over time. To make sure they’re in good working condition, check that they are securely fastened. Take Advantage of Smart Technology According to the National Fire Protection Association, 40 years ago people had an average of 17 minutes to escape a home fire, but today the average has decreased to about 3 minutes due to synthetic materials used in modern-day home furnishings. To get the earliest warning of a home fire, install wire-free interconnected battery-powered combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When one alarm senses a hazard, all alarms throughout the home sound in unison. Features like color-coded status rings and built-in 10-year sealed batteries make Kidde's Wire-Free Interconnected Alarms a smart solution for optimal protection. They offer simple setup and operate without the hassle of hardwiring or a Wi-Fi connection. Check Appliances While going through your spring home safety checklist, take time to check your appliances or schedule an annual maintenance check for your stove, oven, heating system and more. According to the American Red Cross, dryers are responsible for approximately 9 of every 10 appliances fires. These common household appliances can collect dust, lint and other particles, which are potential fire hazards and can cause carbon monoxide leaks. 13

Keep Outdoor Activities in Mind Cooking on grills is a popular pastime, but thousands of people are injured every year while using them. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 9,000 home fires are started by grills each year. Now is a good time to get your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grilling area in tip-top shape. Keep a 3-foot safety zone around hot grills for children and pets and have a multipurpose home fire extinguisher nearby as fires can occur unexpectedly. Propane and charcoal grills both put off carbon monoxide as a byproduct, so be sure keep your grill at least 10 feet from the home and ensure it is positioned away from windows, doors, vents and ductwork. For more safety tips to better prepare your home, visit Kidde.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images (woman changing smoke alarm battery) ________________________________________________________________________________ CONTENT CREATORS & COMMERCIAL ADVERTISERS IN NEED OF A STREAMING HOME?

www.infinistudio.org/streaming-services 14

8 films about Easter Easter Parade ; dir. Charles Walters; 1948 Starring: Judy Garland, Fred Astaire, Peter Lawford Who can forget this classic Garland-Astair outing about a nightclub owner who hires an inexperienced and naive chorus girl to be his new dance partner in order to make his old female counterpart jealous? That's right, nobody. The Ten Commandments ; dir. Cecil B. deMille; 1956 Starring: Charlton Heston, Yul Brynner, Anne Baxter Frequently cited as one of the greatest religious films ever made, Moses, the Egyptian Prince, discovers he is actually of Hebrew origin and was put on the Earth to complete the divine mission of delivering his people from tyranny in a movie that defines grandeur. The Passion of the Christ ; dir. Mel Gibson; 2004 Starring: Jim Caviezel, Monica Bellucci, Maia Morgenstern Something of an ego-trip for the frequently outspoken Catholic Gibson, if we put aside criticisms surrounding his motives (and believe us, there are plenty) TPOTC is actually an accomplished depiction of Jesus' last hours spent suffering for our sins. The King of Kings ; dir. Cecil B. DeMille; 1927 Starring: H.B. Warner, Dorothy Cumming, Ernest Torrence Another outing that looks specifically at the final days of Jesus Christ, DeMille's direction is second to none as we watch the lord and saviour suffer at the hands of political and religious oppression. Very hard to find these days, nevertheless it's worth it. Hop ; dir. Tim Hill; 2011 Starring: Russell Brand, James Marsden, Elizabeth Perkins A stark contrast to almost every other title on our list, Hop sees the Easter Bunny's teenage son, E.B., set off to Hollywood in search of fame and fortune as a rock 'n' roll drummer in a flick that was always going to be immensely popular with young 'uns. The Greatest Story Ever Told ; dir. George Stevens; 1965 Starring: Max Von Sydow, Michael Anderson Jr., Carroll Baker With some scenes directed by David Lean and Jean ' How To Marry A Millionaire ' Negulesco, although neither were credited, The Greatest Story Ever Told (AKA the life of Jesus Christ) was clearly a work of such epic proportions one filmmaker was never going to be enough. Mallrats ; dir. Kevin Smith; 1995 Starring: Shannen Doherty, Jeremy London, Jason Lee Set over Easter Weekend, and featuring, in passing, one guy dressed as a bunny, Mallrats is for some Kevin Smith's greatest offering, and sees two best friends who have been dumped by their other halves seek refuge in that timeless American institution, the mall. Ben-Hur ; dir. William Wyler; 1959 (pictured) Starring: Charlton Heston, Jack Hawkins, Stephen Boyd Rounding off our list is one of the most famous epics of all time, wherein a Jewish prince suffers betrayal at the hands of a Roman friend, and is sent into slavery. Regaining his freedom, revenge then becomes the order of the day. Truly gripping stuff. Family Features

MUSIC- Do you remember the humble cassette? We certainly do. Along with high street record store chains such as Andy's and Our Price. Of course this may be showing the collective age of everyone in the office in a bad, or at least embarrassing light, but then we should never be ashamed of where we come from, or when we were born. Even if that was four decades ago. In many ways the cassette is the most Romantic of all music media. Vinyl's recent resurgence and repositioning as the go-to platform for anyone who desperately wants to remove themselves from the Spotified world of throwaway pop has long been something of a cliche- there are even events now taking place wherein people pay to walk into a venue, just to listen to an album played off a record, such is the 'coolness' of black plastic. Whereas ten years back it was dying out, and rightly lamentable through rose-tinted glasses, now admitting to being a vinyl fan is one step away from declaring how you 'might grow a beard'. And there's nothing remotely Romantic about that. In contrast, the cassette is a very different beast indeed. Usurped by another forgotten relic, the MiniDisc, both were all about interaction, and the ability to decide on your own playlist. The difference between these and iTunes was that the playlist was kind of fixed- a running order specific to the time and place in which it was decided upon. Of course you could erase it, and start again, but given you'd actually have to listen to each track all the way through as recordings were done in real time, that's not an undertaking many decided upon lightly. There's also the lower-case romance, too. Tapes are the medium for lovers to share their innermost thoughts on, the way boys told girls they liked them through carefully selected track titles, and the pile of things you'll still have in a box, under your bed, long after the last CD has left the building. As such it's no surprise to learn that for a third year running Cassette Store Day is set to take the world (or at least certain corners of it) by storm, with founding UK Indie labels Suplex Cassettes, Kissability and Sexbeat back in control, along with U.S. partners Burger Records, Australia's Rice Is Nice, Arch Hill of New Zealand, Mansions and Millions and Spati Palace in Germany. Remember 22nd October then, when a host of events and happenings will be taking place across these territories, none of which anyone who remembers the humble tape should miss out on. Image credit: (C) Frankie Leon (Creative Commons) This article was downloaded from http://www.freefeatures.com.

OLYMPICS: TV Review: Seven Memorable Olympic Games Moments

London 2012. The world's biggest sporting event, over the last century or so it has given us some truly iconic images, definitive of a competitive spirit, fair play and athletic ability. With this in mind we got together this list of utterly unforgettable events from the history of the Games, which reads as follows. Sydney 2000: Eric 'The Eel' Moussambani If ever there was a guy children should be taught about it's Mr Moussambani. Equatorial Guinea's 100m freestyle swimmer only learned to stay afloat a few months before heading out to Australia, and finished over a minute over the Olympic record. But it's not the winning that counts- it's the taking part, isn't it?

Moscow 1980: Duncan Goodhew Despite the fact his father wasn't watching (disapproving of Britain taking part, this being the Cold War and all), Goodhew's mother did, and managed to shout loud enough for her son to hear her willing him to win. Or at least that's how the story goes, which is nice. Regardless, his victory in the Russian capital remains an impressive national victory. Los Angeles 1984: Seb Coe Being the only man in the world to ever retain the Olympic record in 1500metre track racing is no doubt just enough to ensure his successive ranking at second place in the 800m (at both these Games and Moscow four years prior) didn't sting so much. Exemplary of a guy with an overwhelming will to win, few can top this moment. Athens 2004: Kelly Holmes Another UK face, another record- albeit this time one that only applies to her fellow countrywomen. After suffering from serious injury a year earlier there were doubts as to her ability to perform, but Holmes, then 34, returned to form, and went on to become the only British woman to win two golds at the same Olympics, in 800 and 1500m. Classic stuff. Mexico 1968: Kip Keino Arriving in significant pain, three laps from completing the 10,000m this Kenyan hopeful collapsed, staggering across the finish line. Then he came second in the 5,000m, before being hospitalised with gallstones as doctors explained another race could kill him. Defiant, he discharged himself, took a bus to the 1500m final, and won by 20metres. Berlin 1936: Jesse Owens Hitler had designs on these Olympics being a showcase for Aryan superiority on the athletics track, meaning when Jesse Owens, a black man, took home four gold medals he would have been rather put out. Especially as one- for long jump- came as a result of German competitor Luz Long giving some invaluable technical advice- ironic but true. Mexico City 1968: Tommie Smith and John Carlos With a rich-poor divide largely based on ethnic lines, and institutional racism rife in the US it's no wonder first and second place 200m hurdlers, both back Americans, used their medal ceremony to make a bold statement. Also note white Australian Peter Norman, who showed solidarity when collecting bronze by wearing a human rights badge.

NOTE: The 2020 Olympics has been postponed for 2021 due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Seasonal Home Supplies for Spring

(Family Features) A homeowner's motivation for taking on a remodeling project can vary greatly, but there's one universal rule of thumb: home upgrades should add value, function or both. This step-bystep guide can help ensure you get the maximum return on your investment and make the most of your remodel.

Step 1: Identify Reasons for Remodeling Deciding whether to undertake simple aesthetic changes or a full remodel can be difficult. One of the best ways to decide is to figure out why you are remodeling in the first place, whether it's to make your new house feel more like home or to update an outdated kitchen.

Step 2: Consider Timing Many variables can impact the timing of your project, including the climate and exact nature of the job. For example, foundation work is easier when the ground is cold during winter. Spring tends to be busy for the construction industry, so you might pay premium rates for labor and materials, but it's also the perfect time to get a project done that you can enjoy throughout the summer. Summer months are ideal for indoor projects out of the heat. Also consider factors such as personal or professional obligations, or even an event for which you need the project completed.

Step 3: Set Your Budget Every home is unique in structure, age, quality and craftsmanship, which all impact the price of a remodel. Since no one can see through walls before demolition, the quote you receive may not be 100% accurate. However, a qualified remodeling company will be forthcoming about potential challenges. Account for these adjustments by planning for a 10% cushion, just in case.

Step 4: Hire the Right Team To help ensure you find the right company for the job, do your research. Referrals from friends and family are one way to find a remodeler. Resources like the National Association of the Remodeling Industry provide unbiased information that can help you find qualified, certified remodelers in your area. With more than 5,000 member companies, the organization represents professional remodelers who adhere to a strict code of ethics. Many hold certifications in remodeling, kitchen and bath design and lead carpentry.

Step 5: Establish a Written Agreement Most companies insist on a contract to protect their own interests, but if they don't, you should. In addition to defining the scope of work and budget, a contract ensures all parties are on the same page with expectations about factors like timing, liability in the event of an accident and other practical matters. Contractors also often provide guarantees of workmanship, so find out what they cover for how long and include this information in your work agreement. Step 6: Understand the Plan Keep the lines of communication open between you, the remodeling contractor and the work crew. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Let them know your family's schedule and circumstances that may affect their work, such as pets. Make sure to specify the best way to reach you and how often you wish to communicate about your project. Step 7: Complete the Project When the remodel is almost finished, walk through the area and note any adjustments that need made while the contractor is still on site. You should also take another look at the contract and confirm you have signed permits, receipts, change orders, lien waivers, warranties and manufacturers' guides at your disposal. Find more remodeling advice and contractors in your area at www.remodelingdoneright.com #15193 Source: National Association of the Remodeling Industry 20

5 Tips for Better Home Safety this Spring

(Family Features) As people become more active during the warmer months, keeping home safety top of mind can sometimes go by the wayside. However, when it comes to fire and carbon monoxide safety, you can never be too prepared.

Whether you are just beginning to take a stronger safety-first approach or looking to upgrade existing home safety equipment, keep these tips in mind as you spruce up your home for the season.

Don't Just Check Batteries, Check the Alarm It's a good idea to review your safety equipment and ensure everything is in good working order at least a couple times each year. For example, every type of smoke alarm must be completely replaced every 10 years whether it's hardwired into your home or operates on a battery. New smoke alarms commonly come with built-in 10-year batteries, meaning no battery changes, but it's a good idea to test the units regularly. In fact, most manufacturers recommend weekly. You can also use this time to double-check the gauge on your fire extinguishers, replace batteries in flashlights, test security systems and replenish first-aid kits.

Inspect and Repair Outdoor Areas Set aside time to evaluate any damage or potential hazards as the weather warms. For example, fallen tree branches and leaves can become trapped in gutters and pose a fire hazard. Shutters and fences can also weaken over time. To make sure they're in good working condition, check that they are securely fastened.

Take Advantage of Smart Technology According to the National Fire Protection Association, 40 years ago people had an average of 17 minutes to escape a home fire, but today the average has decreased to about 3 minutes due to synthetic materials used in modern-day home furnishings. To get the earliest warning of a home fire, install wire-free interconnected battery-powered combination smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. When one alarm senses a hazard, all alarms throughout the home sound in unison. Features like color-coded status rings and built-in 10-year sealed batteries make Kidde's Wire-Free Interconnected Alarms a smart solution for optimal protection. They offer simple setup and operate without the hassle of hardwiring or a Wi-Fi connection.

Check Appliances While going through your spring home safety checklist, take time to check your appliances or schedule an annual maintenance check for your stove, oven, heating system and more. According to the American Red Cross, dryers are responsible for approximately 9 of every 10 appliances fires. These common household appliances can collect dust, lint and other particles, which are potential fire hazards and can cause carbon monoxide leaks.

Keep Outdoor Activities in Mind Cooking on grills is a popular pastime, but thousands of people are injured every year while using them. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, nearly 9,000 home fires are started by grills each year. Now is a good time to get your home's grilling area in tip-top shape. Keep a 3-foot safety zone around hot grills for children and pets, and have a multipurpose home fire extinguisher nearby as fires can occur unexpectedly. Propane and charcoal grills both put off carbon monoxide as a byproduct, so be sure keep your grill at least 10 feet from the home and ensure it is positioned away from windows, doors, vents and ductwork. For more safety tips to better prepare your home, visit Kidde.com. Photo courtesy of Getty Images (woman changing smoke alarm battery)

#14653 Source: Kidde 22

Now's the Time to Teach At-Home Nutrition

(Family Features) With a lot of parents facing the challenge of keeping housebound kids happy and healthy, this is the perfect time to teach kids the basics of nutrition and eating right. Consider these simple suggestions from Melanie Marcus, MA, RD, health and nutrition communications manager for Dole Food Company. * Healthy Snack Time Taste Tests - Sometimes it feels like kids can snack all day long on easyto-grab crackers, chips or cookies. Next time they reach into the snack pantry, try incorporating a taste test or food critic activity to encourage something different and more nutritious. * Purposeful Playtime - Many households have a play kitchen or some kind of play food. Use this as an opportunity to act out how to create a healthy kitchen with activities like making salad, setting the table, peeling bananas and washing dishes. This can help young children become more independent, learn what to expect and grow into little helpers at family mealtime. * Sensory Activity - One idea that can work for school and at home is making a sensory box. Simply place a fruit or two inside a tissue box and have children put their hands inside then try to guess which fruit it is by feeling it. * Recipes for Fun - If you're preparing a meal, it could be a good time to teach children of reading age how to review a recipe. Evaluating ingredients to learn how food transforms from raw to cooked or how a dish is created can help kids learn kitchen skills. For example, try this fun, fruity recipe for Kids with Almond Toast. 23

* Food Groups Focus - Get kids involved in making dinner by setting a rule that each food group must be represented. Give them a warmup activity by asking which food groups are found in family favorites like chicken soup, lasagna or meatloaf. Asking kids to guess which ingredients are used in these dishes and identifying which food group each ingredient belongs to can help them understand dietary balance. Find more at-home tips in the free, downloadable Healthy Eating Toolkit from the nonprofit organization Action for Healthy Kids. * Reading Time - From food labels to children's books to cookbooks, there are plenty of reading materials to choose from that reinforce healthy eating habits. Exposing children to fruits and vegetables outside the kitchen is a subtle way to show that nutritious ingredients are part of everyday life. * Explain the Bathroom Routine - Make sure to wash hands and explain that this is a way of washing away germs to stay healthy. Also explain why brushing teeth is important by reminding children that food can get stuck in teeth and cause cavities. Find more kid-friendly recipe ideas at dole.com plus nutritional tips, free printables and other healthy fun on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram. "Kids" with Almond Toast Total time: 10 minutes Servings: 4 4 6 2 1 2 4 2 2

slices whole-grain bread tablespoons unsalted almond butter teaspoons honey (optional) DOLE(r) Banana, peeled Dole Strawberries, trimmed and halved chunks (1 1/2 inches) fresh Dole Tropical Gold Pineapple Dole Blackberries teaspoons toasted flaxseed (optional)

Toast bread slices. Spread with almond butter and drizzle with honey, if desired. To make "kids": Cut eight slices and 32 matchsticks from banana. Arrange one strawberry half and one pineapple chunk on two slices toast; arrange remaining strawberry halves and blackberries on remaining slices. Place one banana slice "head" at top of each piece of fruit and arrange four banana matchsticks around each "kid" for arms and legs. Sprinkle flaxseed along bottom edges of toast under kids' feet, if desired. Photo courtesy of Getty Images (mother and daughter) #15200 Source: Dole

5 Ways to Get Kids to Eat Healthier

(BPT) - Every parent knows the struggle of convincing their little ones to eat more nutritious foods. Luckily, by encouraging your kids to get involved in the kitchen, you're helping them build a solid foundation for healthier food choices. Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist Dawn Jackson Blatner offers five expert tips to get kids involved in making healthy family meals:

1. Let the kids pick the recipe. Flip through a healthy cookbook and see which recipes the kids are interested in making. This is a good way to get kids involved in selecting healthier recipes or new food flavors, and because they helped choose, they will be more invested in trying these foods when you cook them.

2. Take family trips to the grocery store. Head to the store and select nutritious ingredients for recipes, meals and snacks. You can even let the kids help craft the grocery list and search for ingredients while you shop. To introduce new foods, set a goal to select one new food to try at each visit and head home to have a fun tasting.

3. Make their favorite foods with better-for-you ingredients. Eating well doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean giving up favorite foods, just make them with better-for-you ingredients. Keep kids favorites like pizza, burgers, fries, tacos, muffins and pancakes on the menu, but just choose healthier ingredients. For example, choose Egglandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Best eggs with better taste, freshness and nutrition compared to ordinary eggs. EB eggs contain 25% less saturated fat, 10 times more vitamin E, six times more vitamin D and double the vitamin B12, which transforms food into energy that kids need to play and grow. 25

4. Cook as a family. Kids adore helping in the kitchen, so have them wash their hands and pull up a chair when it's time to cook. Older kids can help with tasks like rinsing vegetables, chopping foods, measuring ingredients and cracking eggs. Younger children love to help mix, stir and do other simple tasks like using a pastry brush to spread oil.

5. Make it fun. Put on some music when you cook and enjoy the quality time together. Make your meals special by lighting candles or using nice glasses. Create your own original recipe and come up with a fun name for it. Your unique recipe could even earn your family $10,000! From now until May 3rd, Eggland’s Best is searching for the best original family recipe featuring at least two EB eggs.

Submit your family’s favorite recipe at http://www.americasbestrecipe.com for your chance to win. For a nutritious and delicious recipe that’s kid-approved and easy to make, try these Zucchini Muffins from Eggland’s Best: Zucchini Muffins Ingredients: ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢

2 Eggland's Best Eggs (large) 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 cup sugar 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup Land O Lakes Butter, melted 1 medium (2 cups) zucchini, shredded

Directions: Heat oven to 350 F. Place paper baking cups into 12 muffin pan cups; set aside, Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in bowl; mix well. Combine butter and eggs in bowl; stir into flour mixture just until moistened. Stir in zucchini. Fill prepared muffin pan cups three-fourths full with batter. Bake 22-25 minutes or until toothpick inserted into center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes in pan; remove to cooling rack.

MUSIC - 6 film soundtracks you need in your life Gravity; 2013 As far as original film scores go, composer Steven Price set the bar as high as you possibly can with his efforts for Gravity . Things range from delicate strings to booming full orchestral work, albeit every track was recorded as individual instruments or small groups of instruments, before being electronically processed and then layered together. Juice; 1992 Perhaps not the finest hip hop movie in the ghetto, nevertheless its soundtrack ranks as one of the strongest rap compilations ever. The likes of Big Daddy Kane, Naughty By Nature, Eric B & Rakim, Cypress Hill and Salt-n-Peppa are all represented, which is a strong selection of artists by anyone's standard. Pump Up The Volume; 1990 Christian Slater plays an East Coast high schooler who is moved to the back end of mid-west nowhere by his parents. Finding it difficult to settle in, he begins broadcasting a pirate radio show under the name Happy Harry Hardon, hence this soundtrack being so good; Pixies, Sonic Youth, Henry Rollins, Cowboy Junkies, Soundgarden, Ivan Neville, Concrete Blonde, Liquid Jesus- early-90s alt legends the lot of them. Pulp Fiction; 1994 To some this probably seems like an obvious choice, but that doesn't stop it being a worthy one. Tarantino's most accomplished movie has a soundtrack so good you simply have to own it. From the e-funk of Kool & the Gang, to Al Green's soul, Neil Diamond's dark crooning to Dusty Springfield's country and western gospel tones, it's sublime. The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou; 2004 Wes Anderson's colourful and touching story of an underwater explorer has a soundtrack that's every bit as easy to get into as the movie itself. Brazilian-born Seu Jorge's reworkings of Bowie are astonishing, whilst The Zombies, The Stooges and Scott Walker are more than welcome additions too. Trainspotting; 1996 Very much of its day, and all the better for it, Trainspotting 's exploration of Edinburgh's drug-addled populous was a strong component of the UK's reinvention of itself as Cool Britannia. The score veers between Iggy Pop's narcissistic punk anthem, Lust For Life, and Underworld's dark rave tones on Born Slippy , making for a truly varied must-buy. Image credit: Ewan McGregor legs it through the Scottish capital to the sound of Iggy Pop in Trainspotting .

This article was downloaded from http://www.freefeatures.com .

Food and Drink- 10 items no kitchen should be without So you've spent good money on creating the perfect space in which to create the perfect meal. The problems is, no matter how much you've forked out on that oven, those cabinets and cupboards, a good workman or woman is only as good as the tools at their disposal. Not that we would ever advocate blaming your kit when things go wrong, of course. Having a variety of quality equipment at your disposal in the kitchen will open up countless possibilities in terms of what you can cook. Imagine inviting friends over for penne and porcini mushrooms, and then revealing you made the pasta yourself. Or frying up some sirloins, complete with griddle marks. Few things are more satisfying than serving properly made dishes, so here's a checklist of essentials you should always have to hand before you start showing off any culinary expertise. Ladle In layman's terms, this is really just a large spoon with a bent handle and deep serving cup. Ideal for soups, obviously, it's difficult to perfect a Vietnamese noodle pho without one of these. Chef's knife and sharpening block Ideally you should be looking for an 8-10" blade with a thick bolster to act as a finger guard, and the knife itself should sit comfortably in your hand. A sharpening block is essential too, otherwise preparing meat will be rather troublesome after a few months. Grater and microplane Most of us have a grater somewhere in the home, but we recommend looking for one that also allows you to microplane- you'll need that for zesting lemons, grating Parmesan, herbs and spices, which is important in more complex dishes. Paring knife You won't be able to make fine cuts- for example coring tomatoes, other fruits and vegetableswithout one of these. One word of advice; if the blade doesn't extend into the handle put it back on the shelf and look for another. Cerated bread knife Let's face it, your weekday morning toast is fine from a loaf of pre-cut bread, but if you're sitting down to a hearty winter stew and want a crusty baguette you'll need a suitable knife to carve it up.

Can opener Look for a bulky plastic can opener that has a twist knob on top, rather than the more old school all-metal version. Chances are the latter will cause you more trouble than it's worth, and nobody needs trouble. Wire mesh colander If you're cooking pasta then this is a key purchase, even if that pasta is shop bought. Try to find one with a foot at the bottom, thus meaning your spaghetti won't be left sitting in a puddle of water in the sink. Pasta maker There are almost as many pasta makers on the market as there are types of pasta, and so it can get a little confusing. Our preference would be to choose on that offers between three and five settings for various pasta shapes- any more and chances are it will be a jack of all trades, master of none. Wok Although no longer the exotic pan it once was, woks are probably the best investment you can make for the kitchen. Ideal for stir fry dishes and other oriental meals, there's also nothing to stop you using this for a plethora of other offerings. Griddle pan Last, but definitely not least, is the griddle plan. This is the best possible way to fry meat and fish with aesthetically pleasing griddle marks. Look for the heaviest you can, which is usually a good sign of quality, and one where the metal runs into the wooden handle.

Image (C) Didriks via Flickr

Coronavirus has caused a major paradigm shift in our world as we know it, a pandemic shift, as it were. Many of us know of someone or someone we care for that has contracted this virus and is fighting it or in the after effects of it. Two close family members of mine contracted COVID-19 and luckily are still fighting to get better. COVID-19 is no joke people, and has virtually shut down virtually some industries completely. It has Halted Production of Entertainment Worldwide, however, Thank God We Have Satellites and Cable TV. Netflix, AT&T, Comcast, Amazon Prime, Starz, ShowTime, HBO and the like are All Running First Run Movies, that would otherwise be Currently Showing in Theaters Today, such as “The Invisible Man, Hunt, Trolls World Tour, Frozen II, Onward” and many others. BUT!!! They do come at a premium price, usually of $19.99 rental. Coronavirus Theater Shutdown Notice

#QuarantineAndChill Have no fear, many of the Greatest Movies in the World are also Showing on Cable for FREE. Check out Faye Renee’s “List of 100 Great Movies to Watch During Quarantine” right here! https://www.reviewswithfayerenee.com/post/100-great-movies-to-watch-duringcoronavirus-quarantine And Check out Faye Renee’s “List of 65 of the 2019 Greatest Films” to Watch During Quarantine here! https://documentcloud.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn%3Aaaid%3Ascds%3AUS%3Ad8abfd8b-a5b54eea-961c-ee088da187e5

Just as Coronavirus Hit the States, The Invisible Man debuted in Theaters! Check out Faye Reneeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dynamic Review of The Invisible Man!

During these Pandemic Days Faye Renee Reviews has been Expanding Reviews to Cover a Variety of Film, TV, Food/Restaurants Reviews as well as Satirical Videos, Blogposts and the like. Check our Latest Food Review of a Traveling Chef in Chicagoland, Chef Douglas R. Hudson!

NEW Satirical Series by Reviews with Faye Renee “#QuarantineAndChill!” Breakfast for Dinner! – #QuarantineAndChill Series – Ep. 1

#StayHomeStaySafe! – #QuarantineAndChill Series – Ep. 2

Remember, We’re All in this Together—Keep the Faith, and While You’re Chillaxin at Home, You Can Stop by and Visit With Us Right on Your TV Set @ https://YouTube.com/c/ReviewswithFayeRenee and We Will Definitely Keep You Entertained—Check it Out! Watch Videos, Like the Videos, Subscribe to Channel for FREE! #StayHomeStaySafe! #fayerenee #reviewswithfayerenee #infinimagazine 32

Content Creatives Makes the Decision to Self-Distribute on the New InfiniPix Platform. Infini Entertainment Studio intriduces InfiniPix, a brand new Streaming House. Content Creators are encouraged to come on board with their completed productions in multiple categories, including movies, music, audio, series, videos and specials. Below are the options offered: Streaming on our custom WebTV, the ability to rent to view or purchase to own digital productions. Additional options including selling physical completed products ie DVDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, CDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. products and services such as t-shirts, posters, mugs.

www.infinistudio.org/streaming-service 34

Identify Your Ideal Kitchen Design Style

(Family Features) While you may see kitchens in a variety of styles and find them all beautiful in their own way, finding inspiration for your dream kitchen often requires sorting through many different considerations. From transitional to modern and every style in-between, these ideas can help you decide what suits your home while also fitting your personal tastes. Find more inspiration at http://www.wellborn.com

Create a Sweet Easter Treat (Family Features) This Easter, satisfy guests of all ages with festive cupcakes modeled after the Easter bunny. For more Easter recipes, visit www.Culinary.net Bunny Butt Cupcakes Recipe courtesy of Amanda Rettke of “I am baker” Prep time: 45 minutes Cook time: 20 minutes Servings: 24 1 1 1 3/4 2 16 2 10 1-2 12 3

2-layer size white cake mix tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, McCormick Pure Lemon Extract, divided tablespoon McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract cup white chocolate chips sticks butter, softened ounces confectioners’ sugar tablespoons milk drops McCormick Green Food Color drops McCormick Red Food Color large marshmallows, halved crosswise tablespoons white nonpareil sprinkles

Prepare cake mix as directed on package, adding 1 tablespoon lemon extract and vanilla. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter into 24 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake as directed on package for cupcakes. Cool cupcakes on wire rack.

To make bunny feet: In medium, microwave-safe bowl, microwave white chocolate chips on high 30 seconds. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Spoon into pastry bag or re-sealable plastic bag. Snip small corner from bag. Pipe 24 pairs of bunny feet onto parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet. Use toothpick to smooth out bumps or rough edges, and gently tap cookie sheet on counter to help settle. Allow to harden 2 minutes in freezer or 15 minutes in refrigerator.

To make frosting: In large bowl, beat butter and remaining lemon extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectionersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; sugar, beating well after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk; beat until light and fluffy. Remove half the frosting and place in medium bowl. Add green food color; mix until evenly blended. Spoon into pastry bag fitted with grass decorating tip. Set aside. Remove half the remaining frosting into small bowl. Add red food color; mix until light pink. Spoon into another pastry bag.

Using pink frosting, pipe three toes and padding on each bunny foot. Once frosting has set (about 1 hour) gently press down on pink frosting to create smoother look. To assemble cupcakes: Pipe green frosting onto each cupcake in series of short motions to create individual grass spots. Cover top of each cupcake completely.

To make bunny butts: Place cut sides of marshmallow halves onto each frosted cupcake, leaving room for bunny feet. Shape remaining white frosting into dime-sized balls then roll with white sprinkles to cover. Pipe small drop of remaining pink or white frosting onto top of each marshmallow. Press bunny tail on top.

Place both bunny feet against base of marshmallow with toes facing down.

5 Tips to Get Organized

(Family Features) Getting organized and making the most of your homeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s storage space can be a daunting task. To help keep clutter at bay and streamline organization throughout the house, consider these tips for revamping your closets and designated storage areas from the experts at ClosetMaid. Find closet systems and other organization hacks at ClosetMaid.com.

INFINIPIX STREAM IN to THE EXCHANGE Marathon

The Exchange is a weekly scripted series that follows the lives of workers on a Trading Floor. The series recently aired on cable televison in New York City, Chicagoland, Atlanta and now streaming online at www.infinistudio.org/the-exchange STREAM IN www.infinistudio.org/the-exchange

CONNECT on Faceebook @TheExchangeSeries 39

RENT to WATCH $2.99 www.infinistudio.org/ajayla-the-nubian-princess 40

Synopsis: Lately, computer tech, James Stewart has been unlucky in the dating world. So he decides to check out the dating app, Swipe Me. To his surprise, he matches with a beautiful woman named, Alexis. On their first date, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an unsuspected surprise.

Streaming on InfiniPix www.infinistudio.org/swipeleft

Trailer:

Nightmare on MLK Street

Genre: Horror Comedy Synopsis: In the world of horror movie villains, it's even places that they won't go. When this Horror villains decide to expand their murder territory into the hood, across Martin Luther King Street, they soon realize they're no longer the villains but the victims. Starring: Jarric Tucker Jonathan Lamar Lamar Jones Latoya Yarbrough Adrian Ross Candi K. Lynn Streaming on InfiniPix weeknights at 10:00 PM EST, 9:00 PM CST www.infinistudio.org/nightmareonmlkstreet

Tap into Employer Benefit Resources in Times of Uncertainty (Family Features) For many American workers, how they do their jobs dramatically changed with the spread of COVID-19. Some have shifted to working from home while others moved to part-time or reduced hours. With uncertainty abound, now's a good time to take stock of your physical and mental health and familiarize yourself with the resources available from your employer. As part of a report on mental health, employee benefits company Unum found nearly three-quarters (74%) of working adults feel big life events can have a major impact on their mental health. Some top mental health triggers include a person's health (69%), finances (67%), relationships (59%) and job satisfaction (52%). "With so many people experiencing major shifts in not only their work lives, but also potentially their health, finances and personal lives, now is a good time to know what resources are available," said Laurie Mitchell, assistant vice president of global wellbeing and health at Unum. Often linked with a health care or disability plan's coverage, employee assistance programs, telemedicine or telebehavioral health and app-based programs are low-cost solutions that allow people to connect with a professional on their own time when they're experiencing a problem. Employee Assistance Programs An employee assistance program (EAP) often offers free and confidential assessments, short-term counseling, referrals and follow-up services to people who have personal or work-related concerns. EAPs address a wide range of issues affecting mental and emotional wellbeing, such as alcohol and other substance abuse, stress, grief, family problems and psychological disorders. Many EAPs also provide services to help caregivers, assist with financial planning or offer child care resources. Telemedicine and App-Based Mental Health Solutions Telemedicine services can make accessing medical and mental health resources easier. There are even apps that can target specific mental health needs, and people can access them on their own time when they need the services. These types of tools can be effective complements to traditional care and help with everything from increasing positivity and efficiency to reducing stress and anxiety. "Employees should ask their human resources department what resources are available and be supportive of colleagues who may be struggling as well," Mitchell said. "Especially during this time of uncertainty, offering support to others and knowing where to direct them can improve lives and help create a more inclusive work environment." In addition, the report found 93% of human resources professionals say their companies offer an EAP, yet only 38% of employees said they're aware of the resource. More than half of human resources professionals also said they offer financial counseling, legal services and telemedicine services, but only a fraction of employees reported being aware these services exist. As businesses chart new ways of working, these types of tools can help employees establish new ways of interacting with support services when in-person options may not be available. Even if you're not struggling now, as you navigate this uncertain time, consider asking your employer what resources you have access to that can help support your physical and mental wellbeing. To download the mental health report and learn about other employee benefit resources, visit Unum.com/workwell.

STAY HOME, SAVE LIVES CAMPAIGN - Mayor Lori Lightfoot – City of Chicago WATCH the Public Service Announcement The City of Chicago, Mayor, Lori Lightfoot, has put her foot down on the city in an effort to help save lives. After threatening to shut down the beaches and parks if the citizens did not obey to the shelter in place rule, not even 24 hours later was when she shut it down. Many of us appreciate her for “putting her foot down!” This shows that she is concerned for the well-being of the city of Chicago as well as Illinois. Soon after, trending memes circulated on social media that actually reminded us how it felt to laugh again. The best part was that she, too, found humor in the memes. Inspired by them, a PSA was produced to continue spreading the word to convince residents to “Stay Home & Save Lives” It didn’t take long for Chicago’s own, Mayor Lightfoot went viral and is now known worldwide for her much needed discipline in the city of Chicago. I am now confident that her persistence will truly help save lives. Ametra Self

SONG DEDICATION On June 2017, Chicago Native, Kendall Devin Bell began his journey at the ‘American Musical & Dramatic Academy’ AMDA NY. Kendall was blessed to attend and graduated in October 2018. When my daughter had to have major surgery last year this time, I would queue up his first time ever to perform live on stage in New York City video of the performance that moved the entire audience to tears. This song gave me comfort daily as we wait. That was last March 21 and now, one year later, each time I watch the news and see what is happening all over the world, but especially New York, I think of his performance. Never would I have ever imagined the theaters doors would close due to a virus. I want to dedicate this song to ALL who has been affected by this pandemic in one way or another all over the world. This is his cover performance of I’ll Cover You live on stage in New York City. My heartfelt condolences to those who have succumbed to COVID-19, battling the virus or has a loved one that is working the front line and unable to be with their families due to the risks. Whispering a good prayer for the world. Ametra Self 47