Category: Featured

How Vince Clarke Transformed the Sound of Synthpop

Born on this day July 3, 1960 in South Woodford, England, Vince Clarke, a pivotal figure in the synthpop genre, significantly transformed the sound of this music style through his work with multiple influential bands including Depeche Mode, Yazoo (known as Yaz in North America), and Erasure. As a songwriter, keyboardist, and producer, Clarke’s impact on …

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Alan Arkin’s Incredible Life: A Retrospective on the Actor’s Death at 89

Alan Arkin was more than an actor; he was an institution. Born on March 26, 1934, in New York City, he left an impact in Hollywood that will be remembered for generations to come. He was known for his versatility, showcasing a range of roles from comedy to tragedy, and everything in between. Arkin’s acting …

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Tiki Dresses Over the Years

I want a Tiki Dress! They are so colorful and lovely. Back in the 1950s Women’s dresses had two main shapes. They were full circle skirts and very narrow pencil shape dresses. The big difference between the standard dress in the 50s and the Tiki style was the material and the colors. Tropical print fabrics …

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The World of Janet Fish: A Colorful Journey through Her Art

Janet Fish, an American contemporary artist, is best known for her vibrant paintings, lithography, and screenprinting techniques. Born in Boston on this day May 18, 1938, Fish spent her formative years immersed in the world of art, as her father was an art history professor and her mother a sculptor. This exposure sparked her interest …

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On This Day: Combat Rock Was Released in 1982

Combat Rock, the fifth studio album by the legendary British punk rock band The Clash, stands as a testament to the group’s ability to push boundaries and explore new musical territories. Released on May 14, 1982, Combat Rock showcases the band’s evolution from their punk roots into a more experimental and diverse sound, incorporating elements …

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The Architectural Marvel of Mark Hampton’s Weaving House: Unraveling Its Unique Features

The Weaving House, designed by Mark Hampton, is a striking midcentury architectural masterpiece in Lakeland, Florida. The Sarasota School architect has created a timeless beauty that has been immaculately preserved and restored by its current owner, Andrew Weaving. The house showcases the best of midcentury design, from its terrazzo floors and walnut walls to its …

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From South Pacific to Moana: The Best Tiki Movies of All Time

If you’re in the mood for a tropical escape, why not try a tiki movie night? These films are known for their lush island settings, lively music, and colorful characters. From classic musicals to modern comedies, there’s something for everyone on this list of must-see tiki movies. Blue Hawaii (1961) Starring the King of Rock …

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Majestic Mountains Along Route 66: A Guide to the Best Hiking Trails and Scenic Views

Route 66 and its mountainous landscapes Route 66, also known as the “Main Street of America” or the “Mother Road,” has long captivated the hearts of travelers and adventurers alike. Spanning over 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this iconic highway has been the backdrop for countless road trips, stories, and memories. …

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Soviet Film Wednesday: The Little Mermaid

This wonderfully illustrated 1968 Russian animation is based on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid. It begins with a Copenhagen tour guide’s introduction to Andersen’s story, and unfolds to show us the rest of the story, which is not quite the same as the Disney version. As is often the case with re-imagined fairy tales, the older tale …

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Sacred Symbols and Ancient Lore: Discover the Unique Stories Behind Different Tiki Gods in Polynesian Mythology

Polynesian mythology is a fascinating and diverse collection of stories, legends, and beliefs that have been passed down through generations, shaping the cultural identity of the people who inhabit the Polynesian islands. These islands stretch across the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean and include the Hawaiian Islands, New Zealand, Samoa, and Tahiti, among many …

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