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Ben's Lighthouse, an organization dedicated to supporting and uplifting the children of Newtown in the wake of 12/14, will host an ice cream social on Saturday, August 31, from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. The event will be at Trinity Episcopal Church. It will feature local dignitaries and celebrities scooping ice cream from Ferris Acres Creamery. In addition, Newtown Acts of Kindness will be providing free lemonade and lemonade stand kits, there will be activities and information booths sponsored by A Bead of Roses, Connecticut Music Therapy, Emerald Sketch Art Therapists, Ben's Bells and the REACH program. Comfort pets and members of Newtown Juggling & Circus Arts Club are also expected to be on hand.
The Edmond Town Hall Board of Managers will host an open house in honor of the 156th anniversary of Mary Elizabeth Hawley's birth on Wednesday, August 22, from 9:30 am to 5 pm. "We invite residents and others to stop by the Mary Hawley Memorial "We invite residents and others to stop by the Mary Hawley Memorial Room to sign the guest book and share in some refreshments," said James Juliano, chairman of the board. The memorial room is on the main floor of the former town hall, at 45 Main Street. Newtown's beloved benefactress is best known for her generosity to the community. Miss Hawley donated the fund to build Edmond Town Hall, a high school (now Hawley School) and Cyrenius H. Booth Library, as well as the Soldiers and Sailors monument located at the head of Main Street.
The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut, in partnership with the Danbury Farmers' Market Community Collaborative (DFMCC), presents the third annual DisH Photography Exhibition, an outdoor, year-round installation on Kennedy Avenue. The theme is "The DisH — Downtown IS Happening." Twelve photographs by seven photographers were selected to enhance Kennedy Park and Friday's Danbury Farmers' Market. Juror Cathy Vanaria named "Earth's Bounty Eggplant" by Karla Bernstein of Newtown as 2013's Best in Show.
A show of cartoons, watercolors, and acrylics by noted area cartoonists and artists is currently on display at Plain Jane's Restaurant in Bethel. Original works by Orlando Busino, John Smallwood-Garcia, Frederick Carpenter, Jack Medoff, Joseph Farris, and Newtown cartoonist Dana Fradon decorate both dining rooms at Plain Jane's. The public is invited to the opening reception for "The Artists of Plain Jane's" on Sunday, August 18.
The Candlewood Amateur Radio Association (CARA) will present its annual Western Connecticut Hamfest on Sunday, September 8, from 8:30 am until 12:30 pm. The event will again be in the gymnasium and lower parking lot of Edmond Town Hall. Hamfest will include commercial vendors and tailgating, ham radio equipment and computer gear, door prizes, and refreshments. Bill Thoren will present a seminar on Samuel Morse, and a talk-in will again be held for those who cannot attend or who want to be on the air while driving to the ARRL-sanctioned event.
Liz Kelley, who grew up in Connecticut and only recently moved out of state, felt compelled to visit the Memorial Tent on Church Hill Road after the 12/14 tragedy. While there in January, she met Gloria Milas there, whose daughter, Sarah, is an EMT with Newtown Volunteer Ambulance Corps. That was when Ms Kelley decided to do something to honor first responders. That "something" was vouchers for free hang gliding lessons.
On Sunday, September 1, naturalist and author "Wildman" Steve Brill will lead his annual foraging tour at Sticks and Stones Farm, 201 Huntingtown Road. The 60-acre stone masonry farm and retreat features a wide variety of habitats — mountain, meadows, woods, cultivated areas, and fields, and wetlands — all loaded with their associated wild plants and mushrooms. Nuts are coming into season now, and participants will also be on the lookout for shagbark hickory nuts and white oak acorns, both delicious, and unavailable commercially. During the two hour event, participants will also look for tasty and healthful roots, herbs and greens, and mushrooms.
C.H. Booth Library Director Shawn Fields announced Tuesday, August 6, that the library has established social media feeds on Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and YouTube. Mr Fields also invites the public to check out his personal reading list, follow his blog, and to attend any of three upcoming focus group sessions.
Merryhill Child Care Center is now enrolling for preschool (children ages 3-6). Parents and children are invited to take a tour of our center, meet teachers and enjoy a bouncy slide, face painting, arts and crafts, snacks and more during an open house on Saturday, August 10, from 9 am until noon.
After more than two years of planning, members of Newtown Cultural Arts Commission presented a two-day event at Fairfield Hills last September that offered a few thousand visitors everything from fine art to whirligigs. This year, organizers are expanding the festival to include six days of programs prior to the big September 21-22 weekend event at Fairfield Hills. Calling it "8 Days of Music Art and Joy," Terry Sagedy, chairman of the 2013 Newtown Arts Festival, has announced the weeklong roster of events leading up to the onsite festival, from a children's art party and the reading of a new-one act play by Jan Neuberger to the screening of a short dramedy by a Newtown teen, a classical music performance and more, this year's festival has been greatly expanded.


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Publications (121)502.23 Total impact
- Clinical Infectious Diseases 10/2014; · 9.42 Impact Factor
- Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology 10/2014; · 2.68 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Estimation of immunological and microbiological diversity is vital to our understanding of infection and the immune response. For instance, what is the diversity of the T cell repertoire? These questions are partially addressed by high-throughput sequencing techniques that enable identification of immunological and microbiological "species" in a sample. Estimators of the number of unseen species are needed to estimate population diversity from sample diversity. Here we test five widely used non-parametric estimators, and develop and validate a novel method, DivE, to estimate species richness and distribution. We used three independent datasets: (i) viral populations from subjects infected with human T-lymphotropic virus type 1; (ii) T cell antigen receptor clonotype repertoires; and (iii) microbial data from infant faecal samples. When applied to datasets with rarefaction curves that did not plateau, existing estimators systematically increased with sample size. In contrast, DivE consistently and accurately estimated diversity for all datasets. We identify conditions that limit the application of DivE. We also show that DivE can be used to accurately estimate the underlying population frequency distribution. We have developed a novel method that is significantly more accurate than commonly used biodiversity estimators in microbiological and immunological populations.PLoS Computational Biology 06/2014; 10(6):e1003646. · 4.83 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Neisseria meningitidis is a commensal of humans that can colonise the nasopharyngeal epithelium for weeks to months, and occasionally invades to cause life-threatening septicaemia and meningitis. Comparatively little is known about meningococcal gene expression during colonisation beyond those first few hours. In this study, the transcriptome of adherent serogroup B N. meningitidis strain MC58 was determined at intervals during prolonged co-cultivation with confluent monolayers of the human respiratory epithelial cell line 16HBE14. At different time points up to 21 days, 7 - 14% of the meningococcal genome was found to be differentially regulated. The transcriptome of adherent meningococci obtained after 4 hours of co-culture was markedly different from that obtained after prolonged co-cultivation (24 hours, 96 hours and 21 days). Genes persistently up-regulated during prolonged co-cultivation included three (hfq, misR/phoP and lrp) encoding global regulatory proteins. Many genes encoding known adhesins involved in epithelial adherence were up-regulated, including those of a novel locus encoding epithelial adhesive function (NMB0342 - NMB0348). Sixteen genes (including porA, porB, rmpM and fbpA) encoding proteins previously identified by their immunoreactivity to sera from individuals colonised long term with serogroup B meningococci were also up-regulated during prolonged co-cultivation, indicating that our system models growth conditions in vivo during the commensal state. Surface-expressed proteins down-regulated in the nasopharynx (and so less subject to selection pressure) but upregulated in the bloodstream (and so vulnerable to antibody-mediated bactericidal activity) should be interesting candidate vaccine antigens, and in this study three new proteins fulfilling these criteria have been identified - NMB0497, NMB0866 and NMB1882.Infection and immunity 08/2013; · 4.16 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The NadA adhesin is a major component of 4CMenB, a novel vaccine to prevent meningococcus B (MenB) infection. Under in vitro growth conditions nadA is repressed by the regulator NadR and poorly expressed, resulting in inefficient killing of MenB strains by anti-NadA antibodies. Interestingly, sera from children infected with strains that express low levels of NadA in laboratory growth, nevertheless recognize the NadA antigen, suggesting that during infection NadA expression may be different from that observed in vitro. In a strain panel covering a range of NadA levels, repression was relieved through deleting nadR. All nadR(-) strains expressed high levels of NadA and were efficiently killed by sera from subjects immunized with 4CMenB. A selected MenB strain, NGP165, mismatched for other vaccine antigens, is not killed by sera from immunized infants when grown in vitro. However, in an in vivo passive protection model the same sera effectively protected infant rats from bacteremia with NGP165. Furthermore, we identify a novel HPA derivative, reported by others to be produced during inflammation, which induces expression of NadA in vitro leading to efficient antibody-mediated killing. Finally, using bioluminescent reporters, nadA expression in the infant rat model is induced in vivo at three hours post infection. Our results suggest that during infectious disease, NadR repression is alleviated due to niche-specific signals, resulting in high levels of NadA expression from any nadA(+) strain and therefore efficient killing by anti-NadA antibodies elicited by the 4CMenB vaccine.Infection and immunity 12/2012; · 4.16 Impact Factor - Archives of Disease in Childhood - Fetal and Neonatal Edition 12/2012; · 3.86 Impact Factor
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ABSTRACT: Neisseria meningitidis is a nasopharyngeal commensal of humans which occasionally invades the blood to cause septicaemia. The transcriptome of N. meningitidis strain MC58 grown in human blood for up to 4 hours was determined and around 10% of the genome was found to be differentially regulated. The nuo, pet and atp operons, involved in energy metabolism, were up-regulated, while many house-keeping genes were down-regulated. Genes encoding protein chaperones and proteases, involved in the stress response; complement resistant genes encoding enzymes for LOS sialylation and biosynthesis; and fHbp (NMB1870) and nspA (NMB0663), encoding vaccine candidates, were all up-regulated. Genes for glutamate uptake and metabolism, and biosynthesis of purine and pyrimidine were also up-regulated. Blood grown meningococci are under stress and undergo a metabolic adaptation and energy conservation strategy. The localisation of four putative outer membrane proteins encoded by genes found to be up-regulated in blood was assessed by FACS using polyclonal mouse antisera, and one (NMB0390) showed evidence of surface expression, supporting its vaccine candidacy.PLoS ONE 09/2012; 7(6):e39718. · 3.53 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The 16S rRNA gene is conserved across all bacteria and as such is routinely targeted in PCR surveys of bacterial diversity. PCR primer design aims to amplify as many different 16S rRNA gene sequences from as wide a range of organisms as possible, though there are no suitable 100% conserved regions of the gene, leading to bias. In the gastrointestinal tract, bifidobacteria are a key genus, but are often under-represented in 16S rRNA surveys of diversity. We have designed modified, 'bifidobacteria-optimised' universal primers, which we have demonstrated detection of bifidobacterial sequence present in DNA mixtures at 2% abundance, the lowest proportion tested. Optimisation did not compromise the detection of other organisms in infant faecal samples. Separate validation using fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) shows that the proportions of bifidobacteria detected in faecal samples were in agreement with those obtained using 16S rRNA based pyrosequencing. For future studies looking at faecal microbiota, careful selection of primers will be key in order to ensure effective detection of bifidobacteria.PLoS ONE 03/2012; 7(3):e32543. · 3.53 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: An emergent clone of Haemophilus influenzae biogroup aegyptius (Hae) is responsible for outbreaks of Brazilian purpuric fever (BPF). First recorded in Brazil in 1984, the so-called BPF clone of Hae caused a fulminant disease that started with conjunctivitis but developed into septicemic shock; mortality rates were as high as 70%. To identify virulence determinants, we conducted a pan-genomic analysis. Sequencing of the genomes of the BPF clone strain F3031 and a noninvasive conjunctivitis strain, F3047, and comparison of these sequences with 5 other complete H. influenzae genomes showed that >77% of the F3031 genome is shared among all H. influenzae strains. Delineation of the Hae accessory genome enabled characterization of 163 predicted protein-coding genes; identified differences in established autotransporter adhesins; and revealed a suite of novel adhesins unique to Hae, including novel trimeric autotransporter adhesins and 4 new fimbrial operons. These novel adhesins might play a critical role in host-pathogen interactions.Emerging Infectious Diseases 03/2012; 18(3):449-57. · 7.33 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Public concern about an unsubstantiated link between MMR vaccine and autism stemmed from a 1998 paper by Dr Andrew Wakefield and colleagues, and the substantial media coverage which that work attracted. Though the Wakefield paper is now discredited and an MMR-autism link has never been demonstrated empirically, this concern has manifested in over a decade of suboptimal MMR uptake. Few qualitative studies have explored parents' MMR decision-making since uptake began to improve in 2004. This study updates and adds methodological rigour to the evidence base. 24 mothers planning to accept, postpone or decline the first MMR dose (MMR1) for their 11-36 month-old children, described their decision-making in semi-structured interviews. Mothers were recruited via General Practice, parents' groups/online forums, and chain referral. MMR1 status was obtained from General Practice records 6 months post-interview. Interview transcripts were coded and interpreted using a modified Grounded Theory approach. Five themes were identified: MMR vaccine and controversy; Social and personal consequences of MMR decision; Health professionals and policy; Severity and prevalence of measles, mumps and rubella infections; Information about MMR and alternatives. Results indicated that MMR1 acceptors were sympathetic toward Wakefield as a person, but universally rejected his study which sparked the controversy; parents opting for single vaccines expressed the sense that immune overload is not a consideration but that not all three components of MMR are warranted by disease severity; and MMR1 rejectors openly criticised other parents' MMR decisions and decision-making. This study corroborated some previous qualitative work but indicated that the shrinking group of parents now rejecting MMR comprises mainly those with more extreme and complex anti-immunisation views, whilst parents opting for single vaccines may use second-hand information about the controversy. In response, policymakers and practitioners should revise their expectations of today's MMR decision-makers, and their methods for supporting them.Vaccine 02/2012; 30(10):1855-64. · 3.49 Impact Factor -
Article: Reviewing methodologically disparate data: a practical guide for the patient safety research field.
[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: This article addresses key questions frequently asked by researchers conducting systematic reviews in patient safety. This discipline is relatively young, and asks complex questions about complex aspects of health care delivery and experience, therefore its studies are typically methodologically heterogeneous, non-randomized and complex; but content rich and highly relevant to practice. Systematic reviews are increasingly necessary to drive forward practice and research in this area, but the data do not always lend themselves to 'standard' review methodologies. This accessible 'how-to' article demonstrates that data diversity need not preclude high-quality systematic reviews. It draws together information from published guidelines and experience within our multidisciplinary patient safety research group to provide entry-level advice for the clinician-researcher new to systematic reviewing, to non-biomedical research data or to both. It offers entry-level advice, illustrated with detailed practical examples, on defining a research question, creating a comprehensive search strategy, selecting articles for inclusion, assessing study quality, extracting data, synthesizing data and evaluating the impact of your review. The article concludes with a comment on the vital role of robust systematic reviews in the continuing advancement of the patient safety field.Journal of Evaluation in Clinical Practice 02/2012; 18(1):172-81. · 1.58 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Phenotypic and genetic variation in bacteria can take bewilderingly complex forms even within a single genus. One of the most intriguing examples of this is the genus Neisseria, which comprises both pathogens and commensals colonizing a variety of body sites and host species, and causing a range of disease. Complex relatedness among both named species and previously identified lineages of Neisseria makes it challenging to study their evolution. Using the largest publicly available collection of bacterial sequence data in combination with a population genetic analysis and experiment, we probe the contribution of inter-species recombination to neisserial population structure, and specifically whether it is more common in some strains than others. We identify hybrid groups of strains containing sequences typical of more than one species. These groups of strains, typical of a fuzzy species, appear to have experienced elevated rates of inter-species recombination estimated by population genetic analysis and further supported by transformation experiments. In particular, strains of the pathogen Neisseria meningitidis in the fuzzy species boundary appear to follow a different lifestyle, which may have considerable biological implications concerning distribution of novel resistance elements and meningococcal vaccine development. Despite the strong evidence for negligible geographical barriers to gene flow within the population, exchange of genetic material still shows directionality among named species in a non-uniform manner.Journal of The Royal Society Interface 11/2011; 9(71):1208-15. · 3.86 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Both Neisseria meningitidis and the closely related bacterium Neisseria lactamica colonise human nasopharyngeal mucosal surface, but only N. meningitidis invades the bloodstream to cause potentially life-threatening meningitis and septicaemia. We have hypothesised that the two neisserial species differentially modulate host respiratory epithelial cell gene expression reflecting their disease potential. Confluent monolayers of 16HBE14 human bronchial epithelial cells were exposed to live and/or dead N. meningitidis (including capsule and pili mutants) and N. lactamica, and their transcriptomes were compared using whole genome microarrays. Changes in expression of selected genes were subsequently validated using Q-RT-PCR and ELISAs. Live N. meningitidis and N. lactamica induced genes involved in host energy production processes suggesting that both bacterial species utilise host resources. N. meningitidis infection was associated with down-regulation of host defence genes. N. lactamica, relative to N. meningitidis, initiates up-regulation of proinflammatory genes. Bacterial secreted proteins alone induced some of the changes observed. The results suggest N. meningitidis and N. lactamica differentially regulate host respiratory epithelial cell gene expression through colonisation and/or protein secretion, and that this may contribute to subsequent clinical outcomes associated with these bacteria.PLoS ONE 10/2011; 6(10):e26130. · 3.53 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Herd immunity is important in the effectiveness of conjugate polysaccharide vaccines against encapsulated bacteria. A large multicenter study investigated the effect of meningococcal serogroup C conjugate vaccine introduction on the meningococcal population. Carried meningococci in individuals aged 15-19 years attending education establishments were investigated before and for 2 years after vaccine introduction. Isolates were characterized by multilocus sequence typing, serogroup, and capsular region genotype and changes in phenotypes and genotypes assessed. A total of 8462 meningococci were isolated from 47 765 participants (17.7%). Serogroup prevalence was similar over the 3 years, except for decreases of 80% for serogroup C and 40% for serogroup 29E. Clonal complexes were associated with particular serogroups and their relative proportions fluctuated, with 12 statistically significant changes (6 up, 6 down). The reduction of ST-11 complex serogroup C meningococci was probably due to vaccine introduction. Reasons for a decrease in serogroup 29E ST-254 meningococci (from 1.8% to 0.7%) and an increase in serogroup B ST-213 complex meningococci (from 6.7% to 10.6%) were less clear. Natural fluctuations in carried meningococcal genotypes and phenotypes a can be affected by the use of conjugate vaccines, and not all of these changes are anticipatable in advance of vaccine introduction.The Journal of Infectious Diseases 10/2011; 204(7):1046-53. · 5.85 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Because meningitis and septicaemia caused by Neisseria meningitidis are major public health problems worldwide, the design of a broadly protective vaccine remains a priority. Type IV pili (Tfp) are surface-exposed filaments playing a key role in pathogenesis in a variety of bacterial species, including N. meningitidis, that have demonstrated vaccine potential. Unfortunately, in the meningococcus, the major pilus subunit PilE usually undergoes extensive antigenic variation and is therefore not suitable as a vaccine component. However, we have recently shown that N. meningitidis Tfp contain low abundance subunits PilX, PilV and ComP, collectively called minor pilins, that are highly conserved and modulate Tfp-linked functions key to pathogenesis. This prompted us to examine the vaccine potential of these proteins by assessing whether sera directed against them have bactericidal properties and/or are able to interfere with Tfp-linked functions. Here we show that minor pilin proteins are recognized by sera of patients convalescent from meningococcal disease and that antibodies directed against some of them can selectively interfere with Tfp-linked functions. This shows that, despite their apparent inability to elicit bactericidal antibodies, minor pilins might have vaccine potential.Vaccine 07/2011; 29(40):6858-65. · 3.49 Impact Factor -
Article: Meningitis: latest developments.
[Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: The aim of the meeting was to consider the latest advances in meningitis, covering epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, host-interactive biology and vaccines in a variety of bacteria, fungi and protozoa that cause meningitis. The program was comprised of speakers from the UK, as well as international presenters, who had been invited and offered selected papers. Owing to space limitations, only the four bacteria with multiple invited speakers will be considered here.Future Microbiology 07/2011; 6(7):721-3. · 4.02 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Continued suboptimal measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine uptake has re-established measles epidemic risk, prompting a UK catch-up campaign in 2008-09 for children who missed MMR doses at scheduled age. Predictors of vaccine uptake during catch-ups are poorly understood, however evidence from routine schedule uptake suggests demographics and attitudes may be central. This work explored this hypothesis using a robust evidence-based measure. Cross-sectional self-administered questionnaire with objective behavioural outcome. 365 UK parents, whose children were aged 5-18 years and had received <2 MMR doses before the 2008-09 UK catch-up started. Parents' attitudes and demographics, parent-reported receipt of invitation to receive catch-up MMR dose(s), and catch-up MMR uptake according to child's medical record (receipt of MMR doses during year 1 of the catch-up). Perceived social desirability/benefit of MMR uptake (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.09-2.87) and younger child age (OR = 0.78, 95% CI = 0.68-0.89) were the only independent predictors of catch-up MMR uptake in the sample overall. Uptake predictors differed by whether the child had received 0 MMR doses or 1 MMR dose before the catch-up. Receipt of catch-up invitation predicted uptake only in the 0 dose group (OR = 3.45, 95% CI = 1.18-10.05), whilst perceived social desirability/benefit of MMR uptake predicted uptake only in the 1 dose group (OR = 9.61, 95% CI = 2.57-35.97). Attitudes and demographics explained only 28% of MMR uptake in the 0 dose group compared with 61% in the 1 dose group. Catch-up MMR invitations may effectively move children from 0 to 1 MMR doses (unimmunised to partially immunised), whilst attitudinal interventions highlighting social benefits of MMR may effectively move children from 1 to 2 MMR doses (partially to fully immunised). Older children may be best targeted through school-based programmes. A formal evaluation element should be incorporated into future catch-up campaigns to inform their continuing improvement.PLoS ONE 05/2011; 6(5):e19381. · 3.53 Impact Factor - [Show abstract] [Hide abstract]
ABSTRACT: Parents' attitudes toward MMR vaccine and measles, mumps and rubella infections relate to their child's MMR status, therefore improving these attitudes is central to improving current suboptimal MMR uptake. However, no study has yet combined evidence-based, comprehensive and psychometrically validated assessment of these attitudes with reliable objective MMR status data, in order to identify through multivariate analyses the strongest attitudinal predictors of MMR uptake for interventions to target. The present study fills this lacuna by developing and testing a robust evidence-based MMR attitudes measurement instrument. Cross-sectional self-administered postal/telephone questionnaire with objective behavioural outcome. 535 parents of children aged 5-18 in London and north-west England, UK (response rate 18.1%). Recruitment via Primary Care Trust records, age-stratified purposive sample with suboptimally immunised cases oversampled. Parents' responses to evidence-based measurement instrument comprising 20 attitude/previous behaviour items (collapsing to 5 scales) and 7 demographic items, and their children's PCT-recorded 5th birthday status for MMR dose 1 (on-time, late or none) and MMR dose 2 (on-time or none). The attitudes measurement instrument was psychometrically robust: content valid, and demonstrating good or acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha=0.55-0.75 for all scales), test-retest reliability (Pearson's correlation >0.60-0.80, p<0.01 to <0.001 for all scales and 11 individual items), concurrent/construct validity (t-tests for difference between MMR status groups p<0.05 for four scales and thirteen individual items), and predictive/criterion validity (OR=0.66, 95% confidence interval=0.48-0.92 to OR=1.97, 95% CI=1.18-3.31 for three scales and five individual items). Black and minority ethnicity (OR=1.94, 95% CI=1.15-3.30 to OR=4.15, 95% CI=2.40-7.19), positive MMR attitudes (OR=1.63, 95% CI=1.00-2.66 to OR=1.97, 95% CI=1.18-1.31), and positive social attitudes (OR=1.64, 95% CI=1.23-2.40 to OR=1.72, 95% CI=1.13-2.38) independently predicted uptake for both MMR doses. MMR status groups differed most strongly on preference for single measles, mumps and rubella vaccines (6-9% variance in status explained), previous MMR acceptance/rejection (5-9%), and wishing to protect others through vaccinating one's own child (6-8%). The measurement instrument is robust on multiple validity and reliability dimensions, and is appropriate for use in research and practice as a tool for designing and evaluating interventions. Parents appear to act in line with their attitudes toward MMR vaccine, though attitudes toward measles infection bore little relation to MMR uptake. This study indicates populations and attitudes to be prioritized in MMR uptake improvement interventions.Vaccine 02/2011; 29(8):1700-9. · 3.49 Impact Factor - The Veterinary record. 10/2010; 167(17):661-2.
Article: Population-based analysis of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae ApxIVA for use as a DIVA antigen.
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ABSTRACT: APXIVA is an RTX toxin of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae that is a candidate antigen to differentiate infected from vaccinated animals (DIVA). Insertion of ISApl1 into the apxIVA gene is known to compromise an APXIVA-based DIVA approach, as is potentially a TGG to TGA mutation in the apxIVA gene. ISApl1 was found in 63/349 (18.1%) A. pleuropneumoniae isolates from England and Wales including serovars 2, 3, 6-8 and 12. No ISApl1 insertions into apxIVA were found. Only two serovar 3 isolates contained the TGG to TGA mutation. We conclude that an ApxIVA-based DIVA approach would potentially be viable in England and Wales.Vaccine 07/2010; 28(31):4871-4. · 3.49 Impact Factor
Publication Stats
4k | Citations | |
502.23 | Total Impact Points | |
Top Journals
- Infection and Immunity (14)
- FEMS Microbiology Letters (6)
- Molecular Microbiology (6)
- Microbiology (6)
- Vaccine (6)
Imperial College London
- • Section of Paediatrics
- • Faculty of Medicine
- • Department of Medicine
Londinium, England, United Kingdom
Genome Institute of Singapore
Tumasik, Singapore
University Joseph Fourier - Grenoble 1
- Institut de Biologie Structurale
Grenoble, Rhone-Alpes, France
Technical University of Denmark
København, Capital Region, Denmark
Queen Mary, University of London
- Centre for Paediatrics
London, ENG, United Kingdom
University of British Columbia - Vancouver
- Department of Zoology
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
St. Mary's Hospital for Children
New York City, New York, United States
National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM)
Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
University of Oxford
- • Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine
- • Department of Paediatrics
Oxford, England, United Kingdom -
Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust
- Department of Paediatrics
Oxford, ENG, United Kingdom -
Pennsylvania State University
- Department of Biology
State College, PA, United States

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Product Description
Available while supplies last.
Tolomeo Table Desk Lamp
Table standing luminaire for orientable direct and diffused incandescent task lighting.
- Design by Michele De Lucchi & G. Fassina
- Fully adjustable, articulated arm body structure in extruded, brilliant, natural anodized aluminum
- Joints, tension control knobs and mountings in polished die-cast aluminum, cables in stainless steel
- Diffuser with aluminum frame, available in parchment paper or in pale grey satin and polycarbonate fiber blend
- Diffuser remains vertical regardless of arm angle, with incorporated on/off switch on lamp holder
Finish: | Aluminum | |
Light Bulb: | (1)75w A19 Med F Incand | |
Materials: | Aluminum/Steel | |
Voltage: | 120 volt | |
Installation: | Dry Locations [Explain] | |
Listing: | , Made In Europe | |
Number of Lights Refers to the number of lights on a given fixture. Choose from a wide variety of different fixtures ranging from 1 - 6+ lights. | Number of Lights | 1-Light |
Shade Material | Paper Shades |
Bulb sold separately
Dimensions & Weights
Shade Diameter: | 7.07 inches |
Width: | 25.6 inches |
Shade Height: | 5.31 inches |
Projection: | 3 feet 6.51 inches |
Height: | 25.99 inches |
Base: | 9.04 inches |
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Sku | |
Group # | 710387 |
Category | Table Lamps - 95 |
Style | Euro Luxe - 303 |
Sales Rank | 2746 |
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Older People Need More Of The Sunshine Vitamin DAfter a study of more than 3,000 people, a team at Warwick University found that more time in the sun would help to counter vitamin D deficiency, common in elderly people, and this would help cut their risk of heart disease and diabetes. Low vitamin D levels are associated with metabolic syndrome, which in turn is associated with obesity, high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The researchers are still advising care in the sun as UV damage is linked with skin cancer, but Vitamin D deficiency is becoming such a serious and widespread condition it is important to try to get some sunshine, while taking care not to bake or burn. Insufficient vitamin D appears to increase the risk of several cancers, including breast and bowel cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, brittle bones, hip fractures and many chronic diseases – including even tooth decay. Reference: NWR Margaret Wilde http://www.wildeaboutsteroids.co.uk/fatretention.html ————————– Purchase Book: Vitamin D Prescription- The Healing Power of the Sun at Amazon.com |
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How long ago did you find out about Naruto-Kun? |
I've been here since the beginning (2003-2006) (33/80%) I've been here for a couple of years (1/2%) Sometime within the past few months (3/7%) Sometime within the past few weeks (4/10%) A couple of days ago (0/0%) Just found this place today (0/0%) |
Lokyilo |
Quote by Shadow_swordman LOL if thats the case i i'd never make it XDBeing tall, looking manly and having abs? o.o Pft For real though, you never know til you try. time is an issue too sometimes sigh |
Lokyilo |
o my gosh... i hope thats just a piece of lint stuck on the ceiling and not a spider... |
Shadow_swordman |
Quote by Lokyilo That's a good thing~! :3LOL if thats the case i i'd never make it XD time is an issue too sometimes sigh Ah, yeah I guess that is a prob. |
Lokyilo |
well im gonna go |
Shadow_swordman |
Oh my~ Catch ya later then. |
Shadow_swordman |
Well this was quite a lively patch. I'am out~ |
ryo456 |
You suck! D:< |
LunaTheJashinist |
=_= |
i have aids |
Kiko- |
So do I |
Kiko- |
Quote by !iMomo!i Rats are cleaner then niggers.
Hell Yeah .! kiko:: Who let The Rat come in. shut the fuck up! |
ikillz0ne |
i dont have aids |
Kiko- |
Why not |
ikillz0ne |
Quote by Kiko- bcus i only fuck virgins lol
Why not |
ikillz0ne |
yolanda be cool we no speak americano |
Kiko- |
Quote by ikillz0ne Send one over to me in a box
bcus i only fuck virgins lol |
Wolfgang2000 |
Quote by ikillz0ne Sup u walking STDS
i dont have aids |


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The ACC Player of the Year vote, more or less, is down to a trio of Triangle players: N.C. State's T.J. Warren, North Carolina's Marcus Paige and Duke's Jabari Parker. There are others worthy of being in the discussion, namely Clemson's K.J. McDaniels, Virginia's Malcolm Brogdon and Syracuse's Tyler Ennis. But in reality, the award is going to go to one of the former three.
There are four general criteria voters use to determine who the MVP of the league is. Those are offensive performance, defensive performance, team success and defining moments. We whipped up a report card to grade each POY candidate in all four areas.
T.J. Warren, Forward, N.C. STate
Offense: A+. This is easy. There's no better offensive player in the conference, and maybe the entire country. He's been dominant all year while leading the ACC in scoring and field goal percentage.
Defense: B. Warren isn't terrific on defense, but he's not a liability. Steals aren't a great measure of defensive prowess, but he does rank third in the league in swipes.
Team Success: B-. Here's where it gets tricky for Warren. Few doubt he's been the best player in the conference this season, but N.C. State won't finish above .500 in the ACC and will likely spend its postseason in the NIT. On the flip side, this N.C. State team would be in the company of Virginia Tech and Boston College without him.
Defining Moments: B+. There are plenty to choose from. The duel with Marcus Paige and the 41 points against Pitt, to name a couple. But Warren never led N.C. State to a big-time upset or significant win.
Jabari Parker, forward, Duke
Offense: A. Save for a couple off nights at the beginning of the conference schedule, Parker has been an offensive force. He's averaging 18.8 points per game and has eclipsed 20 points five times in conference play.
Defense: B-. There are two prongs to defense, one in which Parker excels and one in which Parker fails. On the one hand, he leads the ACC with 8.97 rebounds per game. On the other, his defense has been abysmal all year, at times leading you to wonder whether he's trying at all. He's one of the primary reasons Duke is among the ACC's worst post defense teams.
Team Success: B. Duke locked up a top-four seed in the ACC Tournament, but is that enough for the Blue Devils? There's little argument that Duke is the most talented team in the conference this season. A 23-7 season is far from poor, but it could've, and probably should've, been better.
Defining Moments: B. Most of Parker's moments came early in the season, when he stole everyone's breath by scoring at least 20 points in his first seven games as a freshman. He's registered plenty of highlights along the way, though he's been quiet late in a handful of Duke losses.
Marcus Paige, guard, North Carolina
Offense: B+. Paige averages 16.9 points per game, good for sixth in the conference. He's had his bursts, scoring 35 against N.C. State and 25 against Maryland, but he's also had several mediocre outings on the offensive end.
Defense: A-. Paige is the best defender among the three candidates. He's won UNC's defensive player of the week award 10 times this season, which is the most on a team that's been good defensively all year.
Team Success: B+. UNC ran smack into adversity this season when it found out halfway through the year that P.J. Hairston wasn't returning. Paige kept the ship rolling during that time. After starting 1-4 in the ACC, Paige led UNC to a 12-game winning streak while emerging as the team's leader and best player.
Defining Moments: A. He won the aforementioned duel with Warren, making the game-winning layup with .9 seconds remaining. He had the game-saving block at the buzzer against Notre Dame two games later. Against Duke, he scored six points in the last 2:11 to seal the upset.


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All Articles Tagged "raven-symone"
Raven Symone Is Coming To "black-ish" As Dre's Gay Sister
Raven Symone is out here collecting all the checks. In addition to her new role on Fox's "Empire," the former child star is also heading to ABC to star on the critically acclaimed "black-ish."
According to Entertainment Weekly, Symone will play Dre's (Anthony Anderson) sister Rhonda. And she just so happens to be gay. Speaking about his sister's sexuality makes Dre uncomfortable so the two, despite their jovial relationship, avoid it.
Though there is one large elephant in the room, the two siblings have a playful competition where they vy for a place at the top of their mother's (Jenifer Lewis) rankings every year. And not just figuratively. Their mother releases official results every December.
The episode, "Please Don't Ask, Please Don't Tell," will follow Rhonda and Dre as they navigate their communication issues.
It is set to air later this season.
Stacey Dash Defends Bill Cosby: "He Was A Perfect Gentleman"
Stacey Dash is being Stacey Dash and lending her opinion where nobody really wants it. The Fox host took to Twitter last night to speak out on the Bill Cosby rape allegations which have the media in a frenzy once again. And being typical Stacey Dash, the actress shared an opinion quite opposite of the status quo, writing:
I worked with @BillCosby in '86 when I was 19. We were alone together many times. He was a perfect gentleman & became a mentor to me.
— Stacey Dash (@REALStaceyDash) November 20, 2014
Though one or two of her followers thanked Stacey for coming to Cosby's defense, several respondents bashed her for attempting to discredit the mounting number of women who've claimed to have been raped at the hands of the comedian. Though it's not fair to question what Stacey's experience has been or necessarily judge her for sharing that truth, the 47 year old does have a history of throwing her two cents into the mix just for the sake of attention rather than contributing anything meaningful to the discussion so I think everyone is taking her proclamation with a grain of salt — or dismissing it altogether.
Meanwhile, Raven-Symone, who's just getting over her own controversy, is asking that she simply be kept out of the mess. After HipHopHangover.com published a story claiming Raven filed molestation charges against her former on-screen grandfather, she was quick to shut down the rumor on Instagram, stating:
I was NOT taking advantage of by Mr. Cosby when I was on the Cosby Show! I was practically a baby on that show and this is truly a disgusting rumor that I want no part of! Everyone on that show treated me with nothing but kindness. Now keep me out of this!
Honestly, there are enough stories from women vocally claiming to have been taken advantage of by Bill Cosby that salacious gossip like this simply isn't necessary and further takes attention away from where it should be: the alleged victims and the alleged perpetrator. Unless you fall into either of those categories, it's probably best you not speak on this matter at all right now.
What do you think about Stacey and Raven's comments?
"I Hate The Things That Get Said To Me Online": Melissa Harris-Perry On Dealing With Online Harassment
Just how serious should you take the online threats and online harassment that you deal with?
In a Pew survey, it was revealed that 40 percent of adults have dealt with harassment online.
For everyday people, the foolishness we deal with via the Internet might be someone vehemently disagreeing with our opinions or calling us out of our names. But for more notable figures, there are actual physical threats of violence and sexual assault. Chrissy Teigen recently logged off of Twitter because she spoke out about gun violence and gun control in this country and was sent death threats ("Wish ISIS would give Chrissy a haircut"). Raven-Symone just wrote an open letter to people personally attacking her online for her previous statements about her sexuality and being African American ("Keep your disrespectful, mean, hurtful, words in a diary for yourself"). And recently, Monica Lewinsky stated that she was the first person to to be harassed and have her reputation destroyed on the Internet.
Now, Melissa Harris-Perry is speaking out about her own experiences with online harassment and did so on a recent episode of her MSNBC show. When she first joined Twitter, she was thoroughly impressed with the social media site. "I loved it! I was like 'Twitter party!'" But things have changed:
"I hate the things that get said to me online…I think to myself, 'Well, just ignore it,' which is an awful lot of the strategy that I've taken myself recently. And then I think about Hannah Rentz suggesting that that sort of isolationism is what terrorism is, to isolate and separate us. I'm at a point where I don't retweet anything that I really like, because I fear that I would send all of my haters and the harassment that comes to me, over to some person who doesn't deserve it. And I keep thinking, I guess it is having an effect and quieting whatever little digital voice I might have otherwise had."
I've personally learned that growing a thick skin, taking a deep breath and not letting statements that I'll probably forget about in a few hours get my mouth in trouble. But as Perry said, it's definitely not easy.
How do you deal with online harassment and threats? Check out Perry's panel discussion on such an issue below:
Raven-Symone Addresses Critics In Open Letter: "Personal Attacking Is Not Needed"
A few weeks ago, Raven-Symone left many with raised eyebrows after she expressed that she does not identify with labels. As a result of her dislike for labels she claimed that she does not consider herself gay or African-American. Unsurprisingly, her comments triggered quite a bit of criticism. She later released a statement to the The Grio to clarify her comments, saying:
"I never said I wasn't black… I want to make that very clear. I said, I am not African-American. I never expected my personal beliefs and comments to spark such emotion in people. I think it is only positive when we can openly discuss race and being labeled in America."
Apparently, that statement wasn't enough because the attacks on the former child star continued. So much so, that she decided to address the public in an open letter asking folks to stop the hate.
"I don't take offense to those that are mad at my personal opinion of myself. Like before, I'm glad there are conversations happening. Our generation tends to stay comfortable ,at times, with issues and topics that need to be addressed.
QUESTION: If we are taught not to repeat history by learning it. Why do we continue to repeat? We must not be learning it correctly.
What does irritate me is the bullying tone towards myself and other opinions in the blog. Keep your disrespectful, mean, hurtful, words in a diary for yourself. Personal attacking is not needed, and no matter what race, nationality, culture, or womb you came out of; strive for respect. Strive to be virtuous, so the conversation can lead to great things, other things.
Our ancestors of all races had the courage to stand up for what they believed in no matter what the fight. Back then I hope the motto wasn't…"the more haters the better"
We have reached a standstill in our progression as Humans. Let's have a floor of RESPECT, KINDNESS, OPENMINDED-nESS. Showing your disagreement with my personal comments by using language you were not allowed to use as a child is just.
My momma reads this, and so do others. #bully."
raven-symoneRaven-Symone Says She Never Said She Wasn't Black
It's been a few days since Raven-Symone sparked a nation-wide debate on race labels and what the preference of being called Black or African American really says about descendants of the motherland, and now the actress is offering up a bit of clarification for her polarizing statements made on Oprah's Where Are They Now? special Sunday night.
The controversy began when Oprah asked Raven about her love life and the former child star let it be known that she was in a relationship with a woman, but wasn't keen on being labeled gay. The idea of labeling then led into a discussion about Raven not wanting to be called African American either. She said:
Raven: I don't' want to be labeled gay. I want to be labeled, a human who loves humans. I'm tired of being labeled. I'm an American, I'm not an African American. I'm an American.
Oprah: Oh girl, don't set up the Twitter on fire. What?! Oh, my Lord! What did you say?
Raven: I don't know where my roots go to. I don't know how far back they go. I don't know what country in Africa I'm from. But I do know my roots are in Louisiana. I'm an American and that's a colorless person.
Oprah: I mean, you're going to get a lot of flack for saying you're not African American. You know that right?
Raven: I have darker skin, I have a nice, interesting grade of hair. I connect with Caucasian, I connect with Asian, I connect with Black, I connect with Indian. I connect with each culture.
Since those remarks, all sorts of thought pieces about racial identity in America have arisen, not to mention criticism for the beloved Cosby star which I can only assume is what prompted Raven to release a statement to The Grio to clarify her comments just a bit. She told the site:
"I never said I wasn't black… I want to make that very clear. I said, I am not African-American. I never expected my personal beliefs and comments to spark such emotion in people. I think it is only positive when we can openly discuss race and being labeled in America."
While the sentiment of Black people not wanting to be labeled African American certainly isn't a new one, it still begs the question of whether in making such a strong statement against one's undeniable African heritage, are you somehow running from that lineage? What do you think? Does Raven-Symone's statement change your opinion on her original comment?
10 Things To Know About Raven-Symone's Stunning Partner, AzMarie Livingston
During her chat with Oprah Winfrey, Raven-Symoné revealed quite a few things about herself, including the fact that she doesn't want to be held back by labels (including calling herself "gay" or "African-American"). But one thing she was also open about is that she is in an "amazing" relationship with a woman, and she's happy "with my partner." So who is that partner? The very beautiful androgynous model, AzMarie Livingston it seems. Livingston recently called the actress her "#wcw & everyday." You might not know her name, but I'm sure you've seen her face. Here are 10 cool things about the model and boo of Symoné.
Somebody Done Told You Wrong: Black Celebrities Who Say They're Not African American
Raven-Symone just ruffled a lot of feathers after revealing to Oprah that she doesn't consider herself gay or Black. But Raven isn't the only celebrity who doesn't want to be labeled as African-American. Prepare to be surprised by the celebrities who don't think they belong on the Black list.
Devyn Abdullah
When The Face model Devyn Adbullah told Wendy Williams, "I don't really consider myself as a black girl model. I know what my ethnicity is, but I'm fair-skinned and I feel like I have an international look" she not only took the audience by surprise but her mentor Naomi Campbell was shocked as well. She famously quipped, "What the f*ck does she mean? That's a disgrace! She's a Black girl."
"I'm Tired Of Labels" Raven Symone Says She's Not Gay Or African American
Who knew that Raven-Symoné's "Where Are They Now" episode would open up such a large can of worms? But her's did, indeed.
As we mentioned before, Oprah asked her about the now famous tweet about gay marriage, which many took to mean that she, herself, was gay.
And while she did confirm that she was in a relationship with a woman, Raven-Symoné says she doesn't want to be labeled as gay. In fact, she doesn't want to be labeled as African American either.
First, the tweet:
"That was my way of saying I'm proud of the country. But, I will say that I'm in an amazing, happy relationship with my partner. A woman. And on the other side, my mother and people in my family, they've taught me to keep my personal life to myself as much as possible. So I try my best to hold the fence where I can but I am proud to be who I am and what I am?"
Oprah: So when did you know who you were and what you were?
Raven: In that topic of dating and in love, I knew when I was like twelve. I was looking at everything.
Oprah: Boys and girls? Did you have a word for it?
Raven: I don't need language. I don't need a categorizing statement for it.
Oprah: So you don't want to be labeled gay?
Raven: I don't' want to be labeled gay. I want to be labeled, a human who loves humans. I'm tired of being labeled. I'm an American, I'm not an African American. I'm an American.
Oprah: Oh girl, don't set up the Twitter on fire. What?! Oh, my Lord! What did you say?
Raven: I don't know where my roots go to. I don't know how far back they go. I don't know what country in Africa I'm from. But I do know my roots are in Louisiana. I'm an American and that's a colorless person.
Oprah: I mean, you're going to get a lot of flack for saying you're not African American. You know that right?
Raven: I have darker skin, I have a nice, interesting grade of hair. I connect with Caucasian, I connect with Asian, I connect with Black, I connect with Indian. I connect with each culture.
Oprah: You are a melting pot in one body.
Raven: Aren't we all? Isn't that what America's supposed to be?
Oprah: That's what it's supposed to be, for sure.
Whew, child! She said a mouthful. And Oprah was right. She set Twitter on fire. The show aired yesterday and as I type this, "Raven Symone" is still trending.
We all have the right to define ourselves for ourselves and I certainly understand not wanting to label yourself as gay when you're attracted to both sexes and believe love is love but the "not African American" part, is troubling to me. I understand that in this country, where you're judged firstly and primarily by your color, the label can become heavy and problematic, even dangerous. But doesn't the choice not to acknowledge it mean, that on some level, you've internalized the messages that it's somehow inferior, or less American? Furthermore, "American" is a label too. (You need only leave this country to see the implications, positive and negative, that it carries.) So, it seems odd to only tell half of the story. You're American but unless you're Native American, there's more to it. And I can't help but notice that many other races and ethnicities take the time to celebrate those differences. Have you ever heard an Italian American, Mexican American or Chinese American deny their heritage, even if their ancestors have been in this country for centuries?
It just seems that Black people, across the diaspora, keep trying to run away from Africa. And that's what I don't understand. A lot of us aren't able to point to a specific country, but there are tests that could answer that question if you really wanted to know. Honestly though, do you have to know a specific country to know there's some Africa in you? There's a reason why Raven, as a "colorless American," noticed her darker skin and interesting grade of hair. One, because our country has conditioned us to notice and even demonize it, but also because it points to that undeniably African part of her ancestry, whether she wants to label it or not.
I'm not suggesting that Raven is ashamed of her African ancestry; she said she connects with Black culture, but I do wonder why she's decided to omit it from her story.
What do you think about Raven-Symoné's comments? Watch this portion of her "Where Are They Now?" interview with Oprah in the video below.
Raven-Symoné Explains How She Avoided Scandal As A Child Star, And Why She Keeps Her Love Life Private
I've always liked Raven-Symoné, because despite the fact that so many child stars go through quite a few lows in their careers and personal lives in public, she has always handled herself in a graceful way. She stays out of trouble. She makes her money (a lot of it). She lives life her way. So how was she able to do this as someone who has been in the spotlight for a majority of her life?
Oprah sat down with Symoné for a "Where Are They Now?" episode and the actress explained the role her parents played in keeping her out of the headlines and out of trouble all these years.
"There's a few answers. My parents taught me to keep my private life private to the best of my ability. They showed me all the role models out there that I could turn into, and what I want for myself in the future. And seeing all of the statistic child stars going off the edge, what I've learned is that it's unnecessary to go to the most popular restaurant in the world when you have a scandal on your head and then get mad that someone's going to take a picture of it. That's your fault, boo boo. Stay in the house…"
The interview is this Sunday on OWN. But until then, check out the preview with her comments on staying grounded and out of drama below:
Raven-Symone Discusses Infamous Gay Marriage Tweet With KeKe Palmer
Last summer, actress Raven-Symone gave us all something to talk (and tweet) about after she excitedly thanked the government for "finally" providing her with the ability to get married. The tweet was believed to be in response to the Supreme Court's decision to overturn The Defense of Marriage Act.
"I can finally get married! Yay government! So proud of you," she tweeted.
Of course, her tweet left folks wondering if this was her way of coming out of the closet. During a recent appearance on "Just KeKe," the former "Cosby" kid briefly discussed the tweet. While she wouldn't confirm whether or not she's a lesbian, she did say this:
"I'll just say I love my LGBT community and I'm part of them for always."
When asked why she sent the tweet, Raven responded:
"Girl, I sent it because people are raising stupid laws. Period."
Clearly, this is not something that she's ready to publicly address. What she was willing to discuss, however, was how she transitioned out of her child star image with people constantly criticizing her.
"How do I say this correctly without making people angry? You have to be confident in who you are no matter what your team, background noise or front-ground noise makes. You have to stay strong as long as you're not, ya know, being a drug addict or nothing crazy then you gotta listen. But when you're just trying to color your hair, stay strong. It's hard because people want to continue the brand, continue the look that they created to, I'm being honest, they want to continue that look that made them money for so long but sometimes it doesn't always coincide with who you are as a person…"
Watch a clip from Raven's interview below. "Just KeKe" airs weekdays at 5 pm ET.


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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia - View original article
Dame Judi Dench CH DBE FRSA | |
Dench at the BAFTAs, 11 February 2007 | |
Born | Judith Olivia Dench 9 December 1934 Heworth, Yorkshire, England |
Occupation | Actress, author |
Years active | 1957–present |
Religion | Quaker |
Spouse(s) | Michael Williams (1971–2001; his death) |
Children | Finty Williams |
Relatives | Jeffery Dench (brother) Rebekah Elmaloglou (cousin) |
Dame Judi Dench CH DBE FRSA | |
Dench at the BAFTAs, 11 February 2007 | |
Born | Judith Olivia Dench 9 December 1934 Heworth, Yorkshire, England |
Occupation | Actress, author |
Years active | 1957–present |
Religion | Quaker |
Spouse(s) | Michael Williams (1971–2001; his death) |
Children | Finty Williams |
Relatives | Jeffery Dench (brother) Rebekah Elmaloglou (cousin) |
Dame Judith Olivia "Judi" Dench, CH DBE FRSA (born 9 December 1934[1]) is an English film, stage and television actress, occasional singer and author.[2] Dench made her professional debut in 1957 with the Old Vic Company. Over the following few years she played in several of Shakespeare's plays in such roles as Ophelia in Hamlet, Juliet in Romeo and Juliet and Lady Macbeth in Macbeth. She branched into film work, and won a BAFTA Award as Most Promising Newcomer; however, most of her work during this period was in theatre. Not generally known as a singer, she drew strong reviews for her leading role in the musical Cabaret in 1968.
Over the next two decades, she established herself as one of the most significant British theatre performers, working for the National Theatre Company and the Royal Shakespeare Company. In television, she achieved success during this period, in the series A Fine Romance from 1981 until 1984 and in 1992 began a continuing role in the television romantic comedy series As Time Goes By. Her film appearances were infrequent and included supporting roles in major films such as A Room with a View (1986) opposite Maggie Smith, but then she was cast as M in GoldenEye (1995), a role she continued to play in James Bond films through to Skyfall (2012). She then received and was nominated for several notable film awards, including her first Oscar nomination for her role as Queen Victoria in Mrs. Brown (1997) and the following year won the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for Shakespeare in Love. A seven-time Oscar nominee, she has also received nominations for her roles in Chocolat (2000), Iris (2001), Mrs Henderson Presents (2005), Notes on a Scandal (2006), and Philomena (2013).
Dench has received many award nominations for her acting in theatre, film and television; her competitive awards include ten BAFTAs, six Olivier Awards, two Screen Actors Guild Awards, two Golden Globes, an Academy Award, and a Tony Award. She has also received the BAFTA Fellowship (2001) and the Special Olivier Award (2004). In June 2011, she received a fellowship from the British Film Institute (BFI).[3] She was made an OBE in 1970 and a Dame (DBE) in 1988, by Queen Elizabeth II for services to the performing arts. In 2005, she was appointed a Companion of Honour (CH). She was married to actor Michael Williams from 1971 until his death in 2001; their daughter is actress Finty Williams.
Dench was born in Heworth, York, England. Her mother, Eleanora Olive (née Jones), was born in Dublin, Ireland. Her father, Reginald Arthur Dench, a doctor, was born in Dorset, South West England, and later moved to Dublin, where he was raised.[4] He met Judi's mother while he was studying medicine at Trinity College, Dublin.[5][6] Dench attended the Mount School, a Quaker independent secondary school in York, and became a Quaker.[7][8] Her brothers, one of whom was actor Jeffery Dench, were born in Tyldesley, Lancashire.[7][8] Notable relatives also include her niece, Emma Dench, a Roman historian and professor previously at Birkbeck, University of London, and currently at Harvard University.[9]
In Britain, Dench has developed a reputation as one of the greatest actresses of the post-war period, primarily through her work in theatre, which has been her forte throughout her career. She has more than once been named number one in polls for Britain's best actor.[10][11]
Through her parents, Dench had regular contact with the theatre. Her father, a physician, was also the GP for the York theatre, and her mother was its wardrobe mistress.[12] Actors often stayed in the Dench household. During these years, Judi Dench was involved on a non-professional basis in the first three productions of the modern revival of the York Mystery Plays in the 1950s. In 1957, in one of the last productions in which she appeared during this period, she played the role of the Virgin Mary, performed on a fixed stage in the Museum Gardens.[13] Though she initially trained as a set designer, she became interested in drama school as her brother Jeff attended the Central School of Speech and Drama.[12] She applied and was accepted, where she was a classmate of Vanessa Redgrave, graduating with a first class degree in drama and four acting prizes, one being the Gold Medal as Outstanding Student.[12]
In September 1957, she made her first professional stage appearance with the Old Vic Company, at the Royal Court Theatre, Liverpool, as Ophelia in Hamlet, then her London debut in the same production at the Old Vic. She remained a member of the company for four seasons, 1957–1961, her roles including Katherine in Henry V in 1958 (which was also her New York debut), and as Juliet in Romeo and Juliet in October 1960, directed and designed by Franco Zeffirelli. During this period, she toured the United States and Canada, and appeared in Yugoslavia and at the Edinburgh Festival. She joined the Royal Shakespeare Company in December 1961 playing Anya in The Cherry Orchard at the Aldwych Theatre in London, and made her Stratford-upon-Avon debut in April 1962 as Isabella in Measure for Measure. She subsequently spent seasons in repertory both with the Playhouse in Nottingham from January 1963 (including a West African tour as Lady Macbeth for the British Council), and with the Playhouse Company in Oxford from April 1964. That same year, she made her film debut in The Third Secret.
The 1966 BAFTA Award for Most Promising Newcomer to Leading Film Roles was made to Dench for her performance in Four in the Morning and this was followed in 1968 by a BAFTA Television Best Actress Award for her role in John Hopkins' 1966 BBC drama Talking to a Stranger.[14]
In 1968, she was offered the role of Sally Bowles in the musical Cabaret. As Sheridan Morley later reported: "At first she thought they were joking. She had never done a musical and she has an unusual croaky voice which sounds as if she has a permanent cold. So frightened was she of singing in public that she auditioned from the wings, leaving the pianists alone on stage".[15] But when it opened at the Palace Theatre in February 1968, Frank Marcus, reviewing for Plays and Players, commented that: "She sings well. The title song in particular is projected with great feeling."
After a long run in Cabaret, she rejoined the RSC making numerous appearances with the company in Stratford and London for nearly twenty years, winning several "best actress" awards. Among her roles with the RSC, she was the Duchess in John Webster's The Duchess of Malfi in 1971. In the Stratford 1976 season, and then at the Aldwych in 1977, she gave two comedy performances, first in Trevor Nunn's musical staging of The Comedy of Errors as Adriana, then partnered with Donald Sinden as Beatrice and Benedick in John Barton's "British Raj" revival of Much Ado About Nothing. As Bernard Levin wrote in The Sunday Times: "...demonstrating once more that she is a comic actress of consummate skill, perhaps the very best we have."[16] One of her most notable achievements with the RSC was her performance as Lady Macbeth in 1976. Nunn's acclaimed production of Macbeth was first staged with a minimalist design at The Other Place theatre in Stratford. Its small round stage focused attention on the psychological dynamics of the characters, and both Ian McKellen in the title role, and Dench, received exceptionally favourable notices. "If this is not great acting I don't know what is", wrote Michael Billington in The Guardian. "It will astonish me if the performance is matched by any in this actress's generation", commented J C Trewin in The Lady. The production transferred to London, opening at the Donmar Warehouse in September 1977, and was adapted for television, later released on VHS and DVD. Dench won the SWET Best Actress Award in 1977.
Dench was nominated for a BAFTA for her role as Hazel Wiles in the 1979 BBC drama On Giant's Shoulders.[17] In 1989, she was cast as Pru Forrest, the long-time silent wife of Tom Forrest, in the BBC soap opera The Archers on its 10,000th edition.[18] She had a romantic role in the BBC television film Langrishe, Go Down (1978), with Jeremy Irons and a screenplay by Harold Pinter from the Aidan Higgins novel, directed by David Jones, in which she played one of three spinster sisters living in a fading Irish mansion in the Waterford countryside. Dench made her debut as a director in 1988 with the Renaissance Theatre Company's touring season, Renaissance Shakespeare on the Road, co-produced with the Birmingham Rep, and ending with a three-month repertory programme at the Phoenix Theatre in London. Dench's contribution was a staging of Much Ado About Nothing, set in the Napoleonic era, which starred Kenneth Branagh and Samantha Bond as Benedick and Beatrice. She has made numerous appearances in the West End including the role of Miss Trant in the 1974 musical version of The Good Companions at Her Majesty's Theatre. In 1981, Dench was due to play the title role of Grizabella in the original production of Cats, but was forced to pull out due to a torn Achilles tendon, leaving Elaine Paige to play the role.[19] She has acted with the National Theatre in London where, she played an unforgettable Cleopatra in Antony and Cleopatra (1987). In September 1995, she played Desiree Armfeldt in a major revival of Stephen Sondheim's A Little Night Music, for which she won an Olivier Award.
After the long period between James Bond films Licence to Kill (1989) and GoldenEye (1995), the producers brought in Dench to take over as the role of M, James Bond's boss. Reportedly modeled on Dame Stella Rimington, the real-life head of MI5 between 1992 and 1996,[20][full citation needed][21][full citation needed] Dench became the first woman to portray the character, succeeding Robert Brown.[22][23] The seventeenth spy film in the series and the first to star Pierce Brosnan as the fictional MI6 officer, GoldenEye marked the first Bond film made after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the end of the Cold War, which provided the plot's back story. The film earned a worldwide gross of US$350.7 million,[24] with critics viewing the film as a modernisation of the series.[25][26]
In 1997, Dench appeared in her first starring film role as Queen Victoria in John Madden's teleplay Mrs. Brown which depicts Victoria's relationship with her personal servant and favourite John Brown, played by Billy Connolly. Filmed with the intention of being shown on BBC One and on WGBH's Masterpiece Theatre, it was eventually acquired by Miramax mogul Harvey Weinstein, who felt the drama film should receive a theatrical release after seeing it and took it from the BBC to US cinemas.[27] Released to generally positive reviews and unexpected commercial success, going on to earn more than $13 million worldwide,[28] the film was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1997 Cannes Film Festival.[29] For her performance, Dench garnered universal acclaim by critics and was awarded her fourth BAFTA and first Best Actress nomination at the 70th Academy Awards.[30] In 2011, while accepting a British Film Institute Award in London, Dench commented that the project launched her Hollywood career and joked that "it was thanks to Harvey, whose name I have had tattooed on my bum ever since."[27]
Dench's other film of 1997 was Roger Spottiswoode's Tomorrow Never Dies, her second film in the James Bond series. The spy film follows Bond, played by Brosnan, as he tries to stop a media mogul from engineering world events and starting World War III. Shot in France, Thailand, Germany, the United Kingdom, Vietnam and the South China Sea,[31] it performed well at the box office and earned a Golden Globe nomination despite mixed reviews.[32] The same year, Dench reteamed with director John Madden to film Shakespeare in Love (1998), a romantic comedy-drama that depicts a love affair involving playwright William Shakespeare, played by Joseph Fiennes, while he was writing the play Romeo and Juliet. On her performance as Queen Elizabeth I, The New York Times commented that "Dench's shrewd, daunting Elizabeth is one of the film's utmost treats."[33] The following year, she was nominated for most of the high-profile awards, winning both the Academy Award and the BAFTA Award for Best Actress in a Supporting Role.[30] On her Oscar win, Dench joked on-stage, "I feel for eight minutes on the screen I should only get a little bit of him."[34]
Also in 1999, Dench won the Tony Award for her 1999 Broadway performance in the role of Esme Allen in Sir David Hare's Amy's View.[30] The same year, she co-starred along with Cher, Joan Plowright, Maggie Smith, and Lily Tomlin in Franco Zeffirelli's semi-autobiographical period drama Tea with Mussolini which tells the story of young Italian boy Luca's upbringing by a circle of British and American women, before and during World War II. 1999 also saw the release of Pierce Brosnan's third Bond film, The World is Not Enough. This film portrayed M in a larger role with the main villain, Renard, coming back to haunt her when he engineers the murder of her old friend Sir Robert King and seemingly attempts to kill his daughter Electra.
In January 2001, Dench's husband Michael Williams died from lung cancer. Dench went to Nova Scotia, Canada, almost immediately after Williams's funeral to begin production on Lasse Hallström's drama film The Shipping News, a therapy she later credited as her rescue: "People, friends, kept saying, 'You are not facing up to it; you need to face up to it,' and maybe they were right, but I felt I was – in the acting. Grief supplies you with an enormous amount of energy. I needed to use that up."[35] In between, Dench finished work on Richard Eyre's film Iris (2001), in which she portrayed novelist Iris Murdoch. Dench shared her role with Kate Winslet, both actresses portraying Murdoch at different phases of her life.[36] Each of them was nominated for an Academy Award the following year, earning Dench her fourth nomination within five years.[30] In addition, she was awarded both an ALFS Award and the Best Leading Actress Award at the 55th British Academy Film Awards.[30]
Following Iris, Dench immediately returned to Canada to finish The Shipping News alongside Kevin Spacey and Julianne Moore.[35] Based on the Pulitzer Prize winning novel by E. Annie Proulx, the drama revolves around a quiet and introspective typesetter (Spacey) who, after the death of his daughter's mother, moves to Newfoundland along with his daughter and his aunt, played by Dench, in hopes of starting his life anew in the small town where she grew up. The film earned mixed reviews from critics,[37] and was financially unsuccessful, taking in just US$24 million worldwide with a budget of US$35 million.[38] Dench however, received BAFTA and SAG Award nominations for her performance.[30]
In 2002, Dench was cast opposite Rupert Everett, Colin Firth and Reese Witherspoon in Oliver Parker's The Importance of Being Earnest, a comedy about mistaken identity set in English high society during the Victorian Era. Based on Oscar Wilde's classic comedy of manners of the same name, she portrayed Lady Bracknell, a role she had repeatedly played before, including a stint at the Royal National Theatre in 1982.[39] The film was released to lukewarm reactions by critics – who called it "breezy entertainment, helped by an impressive cast", but felt that it also suffered "from some peculiar directorial choices" – and earned just US$17.3 million during its limited release.[40] Dench's other film of 2002 was Die Another Day, the twentieth installment in the James Bond series. The Lee Tamahori–directed spy film marked her fourth appearance as MI6 head M and the franchise's last performance by Pierce Brosnan as Bond. Die Another Day received generally mixed reviews by critics who praised Tamahori's work on the film, but claimed the plot was damaged by excessive use of CGI.[41][42] Regardless, it became the highest-grossing James Bond film up to that time.[43]
In 2004, Dench appeared as Aereon, an ambassador of the Elemental race who helps uncover the mysterious past of Richard B. Riddick, played by Vin Diesel, in David Twohy's science fiction sequel, The Chronicles of Riddick. Selected by Diesel, who prompted writers to re-create the character to fit a female persona because he wanted to work with the actress,[44] She called filming "tremendous fun", although she "had absolutely no idea what was going on in the plot."[45] The film was a critical and box office failure.[46] In his review of the film, James Berardinelli from ReelViews remarked that he felt that Dench's character served no more "useful purpose than to give [her] an opportunity to appear in a science fiction movie."[47]
She followed Riddick with a more traditional role in Charles Dance's English drama Ladies in Lavender, also starring friend Maggie Smith. In the film, Dench plays one half of a sister duo and takes it upon herself to nurse a washed up stranger to health, eventually finding herself falling for a man many decades younger than she. The specialty release garnered positive reviews from critics, with Roger Ebert of the Chicago Sun-Times calling it "perfectly sweet and civilized [and] a pleasure to watch Smith and Dench together; their acting is so natural it could be breathing."[48] Also in 2004, Dench provided her voice for several smaller projects. In Walt Disney's Home on the Range, she, along with Roseanne Barr and Jennifer Tilly, voiced a mismatched trio of dairy cows who must capture an infamous cattle rustler, for his bounty, in order to save their idyllic farm from foreclosure. The film was mildly successful for Disney.[49]
A major hit for Dench came with Joe Wright's Pride & Prejudice, a 2005 adaptation of the novel by Jane Austen, starring Keira Knightley and Donald Sutherland. Wright persuaded Dench to join the cast as Lady Catherine de Bourgh by writing her a letter that read "I love it when you play a bitch. Please come and be a bitch for me."[50][full citation needed][51][full citation needed] Dench had only one week available to shoot her scenes, forcing Wright to make them his first days of filming.[52][full citation needed][53][full citation needed] With both a worldwide gross of over US$121 million and several Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations, the film became a critical and commercial success.[54]
Dench in her role as "M" was the only cast member carried through from the Brosnan films to appear in Casino Royale (2006), Martin Campbell's reboot of the James Bond film series, starring Daniel Craig in his debut performance as the fictional MI6 agent. The thriller received largely positive critical response, with reviewers highlighting Craig's performance and the reinvention of the character of Bond.[55] It earned over US$594 million worldwide, ranking it among the highest-grossing James Bond films ever released. In April 2006, Dench returned to the West End stage in Hay Fever alongside Peter Bowles, Belinda Lang and Kim Medcalf. She finished off 2006 with the role of Mistress Quickly in the RSC's new musical The Merry Wives, a version of The Merry Wives of Windsor.[56]
Dench appeared opposite Cate Blanchett as a bitter, creepy and iron-fisted London teacher with a dedicated fondness for vulnerable women in Richard Eyre's 2006 drama film Notes on a Scandal, an adaption from the 2003 novel of the same name by Zoë Heller. A fan of Heller's book, Dench "was thrilled to be asked to ... play that woman, to try to find a humanity in that dreadful person."[57] The specialty film opened to generally positive reviews and commercial success, grossing US$50 million worldwide,[58] exceeding its £15 million budget.[59] In his review for Chicago Sun-Times film critic Roger Ebert declared the main actresses "perhaps the most impressive acting duo in any film of 2006. Dench and Blanchett are magnificent."[60] The following year, Dench earned her sixth Academy nomination and went on to win a BIFA Award and an Evening Standard Award.[30]
Dench, as Miss Matty Jenkyns, co-starred with Eileen Atkins, Michael Gambon, Imelda Staunton and Francesca Annis in the BBC One five-part series Cranford. The first season of the series began transmission in November 2007.
Dench became the voice for the narration for the updated Walt Disney World Epcot attraction Spaceship Earth in February 2008.[61] The same month, she was named as the first official patron of the York Youth Mysteries 2008, a project to allow young people to explore the York Mystery Plays through dance, film-making and circus.[62] Her only film of 2008 was Marc Forster's Quantum of Solace, the twenty-second Eon-produced James Bond film, in which she reprised her role as M along with Daniel Craig. A direct sequel to the 2006 film Casino Royale, Forster felt Dench was underused in the previous films and wanted to make her part bigger, having her interact with Bond more.[63] The project gathered generally mixed reviews by critics who mainly felt that Quantum of Solace was not as impressive as the predecessor Casino Royale,[64] but became another hit for the franchise with a worldwide gross of US$591 million.[65] For her performance, Dench was nominated for a Saturn Award the following year.[66]
Dench returned to the West End in mid-2009, playing Madame de Montreuil in Yukio Mishima's play Madame de Sade, directed by Michael Grandage as part of the Donmar season at Wyndham's Theatre.[67] The same year, she appeared in Sally Potter's experimental film Rage, a project that featured 14 actors playing fictional figures in and around the fashion world, giving monologues before a plain backdrop.[68] Attracted to the fact that it was unlike anything she had done before, Dench welcomed the opportunity to work with Potter.[68] "I like to do something that's not expected, or predictable. I had to learn to smoke a joint, and I set my trousers alight," she said about filming.[68] Her next film was Rob Marshall's musical film Nine, based on Arthur Kopit's book for the 1982 musical of the same name, itself suggested by Federico Fellini's semi-autobiographical film 8½.[69] Also starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Marion Cotillard, Penélope Cruz, and Sophia Loren, she played Lilli La Fleur, an eccentric but motherly French costume designer, who performs the song "Folies Bergères" in the film. Despite mixed to negative reviews, Nine was nominated for four Academy Awards,[70] and awarded both the Satellite Award for Best Film and Best Cast.[30]
Also in 2009, Dench reprised the role of Matilda Jenkyns in Return to Cranford, the two-part second season of a Simon Curtis television series. Critically acclaimed, Dench was nominated for a Golden Globe Award, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Satellite Award.[30] In 2010, she renewed her collaboration with Peter Hall at the Rose Theatre in Kingston upon Thames in A Midsummer Night's Dream, which opened in February 2010; she played Titania as Queen Elizabeth I in her later years – almost 50 years after she first played the role for the Royal Shakespeare Company.[71] In July 2010, Dench performed "Send in the Clowns" at a special celebratory promenade concert from the Royal Albert Hall as part of the proms season, in honour of composer Stephen Sondheim's 80th birthday.[72][73]
In 2011, Dench starred in Jane Eyre, My Week with Marilyn and J. Edgar. In Cary Joji Fukunaga's period drama Jane Eyre, based on the 1847 novel of the same name by Charlotte Brontë, she played the short role of Alice Fairfax, housekeeper to Rochester, the aloof and brooding master of Thornfield Hall, where main character Jane, played by Mia Wasikowska, gets employed as a governess.[74] Dench reportedly signed on to the project after she had received a humorous personal note from Fukunaga, in which he "promised her that she'd be the sexiest woman on set if she did the film."[75] Acclaimed among critics,[76] it was a mediocre arthouse success at the box office, grossing US$30.5 million worldwide.[77]
In Simon Curtis' My Week with Marilyn, which depicts the making of the 1957 film The Prince and the Showgirl starring Marilyn Monroe and Laurence Olivier, Dench played actress Sybil Thorndike. The film garnered largely positive reviews,[78] and earned Dench a Best Actress in a Supporting Role nomination at the 65th BAFTA Awards.[30]
Dench's last film of 2011 was Clint Eastwood's J. Edgar, a biographical drama film about the career of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, from the Palmer Raids onwards, including an examination of his private life as a closeted homosexual.[79] Hand-picked by Eastwood to play Anna Marie Hoover, Hoover's mother, Dench initially thought a friend was setting her up upon receiving Eastwood's phone call request. "I didn't take it seriously to start with. And then I realised it was really him and that was a tricky conversation," she stated.[57] Released to mixed reception, both with critics and commercially, the film went on to gross US$79 million worldwide.[80] The same year, Dench reunited with Rob Marshall and Johnny Depp for a cameo appearance in Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, playing a noblewoman who is robbed by Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Depp. She made a second cameo that year in Ray Cooney's Run for Your Wife.[81]
In 2011, Dench reunited with director John Madden on the set of the comedy-drama The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2012), starring an ensemble cast also consisting of Celia Imrie, Bill Nighy, Ronald Pickup, Maggie Smith, Tom Wilkinson and Penelope Wilton as a group of British pensioners moving to a retirement hotel in India, run by the young and eager Sonny, played by Dev Patel. Released to positive reviews by critics,[82] who declared the film a "sweet story about the senior set featuring a top-notch cast of veteran actors,"[82] it became a surprise box-office hit following its international release, eventually grossing $US134 million worldwide, mostly from its domestic run.[83] Best Exotic Marigold Hotel was ranked among the highest-grossing specialty releases of the year,[84] and Dench, who Peter Travers from Rolling Stone called "resilient marvel",[85] garnered a Best Actress nod at both the British Independent Film Awards and Golden Globe Awards.[86]
Also in 2012, Friend Request Pending, an indie short film which Dench had filmed in 2011, received a wide release as part of the feature films Stars in Shorts and The Joy of Six. In the 12-minute comedy, directed by My Week with Marilyn assistant director Chris Foggin on a budget of just £5,000, she portrays a pensioner grappling with a crush on her church choirmaster and the art of cyber-flirting via social networking.[87] Dench made her seventh and final appearance as M in the twenty-third James Bond film, Skyfall (2012), directed by Sam Mendes.[88] In the film, Bond investigates an attack on MI6; it transpires that it is part of an attack on M by former MI6 operative, Raoul Silva (played by Javier Bardem) to humiliate, discredit and kill M as revenge against her for betraying him. Dench's position as M was subsequently filled by Ralph Fiennes' character. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the James Bond series, Skyfall was positively received by critics and at the box office, grossing over $1 billion worldwide, and became the highest-grossing film of all-time in the UK and the highest-grossing film in the James Bond series. Critics called Dench's Saturn Awards-nominated performance "compellingly luminous".[89]
In 2013, Dench starred as the title character in the Stephen Frears directed film, Philomena, a filmed inspired by true events of a woman looking for the son which the Catholic Church took from her a half-century before.[90] The film was screened in the main competition section at the 70th Venice International Film Festival, where it was very favorably received by critics.[91][92] On Dench's performance, The Times commented that "this is Dench's triumph. At 78, she has a golden career behind her, often as queens and other frosty matriarchs. So the warmth under pressure she radiates here is nearly a surprise [...] Dench gives a performance of grace, nuance and cinematic heroism."[93] She was subsequently nominated for many major acting awards, including a seventh Academy Award nomination.[94]
In October 2014 she began filming as Cecily, Duchess of York to Benedict Cumberbatch's Richard III in the second series of The Hollow Crown.
On 5 February 1971, Dench married British actor Michael Williams and they had their only child, Tara Cressida Frances Williams, known professionally as "Finty" Williams, on 24 September 1972. Dench and her husband starred together in several stage productions, and the Bob Larbey British television sitcom, A Fine Romance (1981–84). Michael Williams died from lung cancer in 2001, aged 65. They have one grandchild, Finty's son Sam Williams (born in 1998). In early 2012, Dench discussed her macular degeneration, with one eye "dry" and the other "wet", for which she has been treated with injections into the eye. She said that she needs someone to read scripts to her.[95]
In 2013, she spoke about her personal religious faith. Dench, a Quaker, said "I think it informs everything I do ... I couldn't be without it".[96]
Dench was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1970[97] and made a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 1988.[98] She was appointed a Companion of the Order of the Companions of Honour (CH) in 2005.[99] In June 2011, she became a fellow of the British Film Institute (BFI).[3]
Dench is a patron of the Leaveners, Friends School Saffron Walden, the Archway Theatre, Horley, Surrey and OnePlusOne Marriage and Partnership Research, London. She became president of Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts in London in 2006,[100] taking over from Sir John Mills, and is president of Questors Theatre, Ealing. In May 2006, she became an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA). She was also patron of Ovingdean Hall School, a special day and boarding school for the deaf and hard of hearing in Brighton, which closed in 2010,[101] and Vice President of The Little Foundation.
Dench is an Honorary Fellow of Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge. In 1996, she was awarded a DUniv degree from Surrey University[102] and in 2000–2001 she received an honorary DLitt degree from Durham University.[103] In July 2000, she was awarded a DLitt degree by Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh, where she actively supported their Drama School at the Gateway Theatre on Elm Row.[citation needed]
On 24 June 2008, she was honoured by the University of St Andrews, receiving an honorary DLitt degree at the university's graduation ceremony.[104] On 26 June 2013, she was honoured by the University of Stirling, receiving an honorary doctorate at the university's graduation ceremony in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the Arts, particularly to film.[105] She was listed as one of the fifty best-dressed over 50s by The Guardian in March 2013.[106]
Dench has worked with the non-governmental indigenous organisation, Survival International, campaigning in the defence of the tribal people, the San of Botswana and the Arhuaco of Colombia. She made a small supporting video saying the San are victims of tyranny, greed and racism. On 22 July 2010, Dench was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Letters (DLitt) by Nottingham Trent University.[107] The Dr. Hadwen Trust announced on 15 January 2011 that Dench had become a patron of the trust, joining, among others, Joanna Lumley and David Shepherd.[108] On 19 March 2012 it was announced that Dench was to become honorary patron of the charity "Everton in the Community", the official charity of Everton F.C. and it was revealed that Dench is an Everton supporter.[109]
She is an advisor to the American Shakespeare Center. She is a patron of the Shakespeare Schools Festival, a charity that enables school children across the UK to perform Shakespeare in professional theatres.[110] She is patron of East Park Riding for the Disabled, a riding school for disabled children at Newchapel, Surrey.[111] Dench is also a Vice-President of national charity Vitalise, that provides accessible holidays for those with disabilities.[112] In 2011, along with musician Sting and billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson, she publicly urged policy makers to adopt more progressive drug policies by decriminalizing drug use.[113]
Dame Judi Dench is also a patron of the Karuna Trust, a charity that supports work amongst some of India's poorest and most oppressed people, mainly though not exclusively Dalits[114]
Dench was one of 200 celebrities to sign an open letter to the people of Scotland asking them to vote No to independence, published in August 2014, a few weeks before the Scottish referendum.[115]
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Worthington Fire Department fights early-morning blaze
WORTHINGTON – In bitter cold temperatures early this morning, Worthington firefighters contained a fire believed to have started in a diesel pickup and spread to the garage of a home at 1511 Hillcrest Ave.
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General guild business and social forum, open to everyone.
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PvP-specific forum, open to everyone.
Anyone doing Random Arenas...
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The Alliance that prays together stays together! Bible studies are held online in the SoE Guild Hall, but information and summaries of previous discussions can be found here.
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Cloth of the Brotherhood
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