Sesame Workshop CMO Samantha Matlin Exits as the Show Faces Changes

The top marketing executive at Sesame Workshop, Samantha Maltin, is waving goodbye to Big Bird, Cookie Monster, and Elmo, according to reports. Business Insider reported Friday that Maltin–who has been executive vice president and chief marketing and brand officer at the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street since 2019–is leaving for a new role at St….

Gray Sees Retirement of 2 Station GMs

Two general managers are retiring from Gray Media. Laura Long is retiring as the general manager of KNOE in Monroe, Louisiana effective October 4, 2024. In Sherman, Texas, Rick Dean will retire as the general manager of KXII effective December 31, 2024. Long began her television career 35 years ago in Monroe, after earning a…

DeSantis Administration Threatens Tampa Station for Airing Abortion Rights Ad

Ron DeSantis’s administration is threatening Tampa NBC affiliate WFLA with legal action for airing an abortion rights campaign ad. The ad features a woman named Caroline who needed an abortion and cancer treatments after a brain tumor diagnosis in 2022, which would be illegal because of Florida’s six-week abortion ban. Orlando Sentinel investigative journalist Jason…

Meta Faces Data Retention Limits on EU Ad Business After Top Court Ruling

The European Union’s top court sided with a privacy challenge to Meta’s data retention policies. It ruled Friday that social networks, such as Facebook, cannot keep using people’s information for ad targeting indefinitely. (TechCrunch) “Following this ruling, only a small part of Meta’s data pool will be allowed to be used for advertising–even when users…

Theatre of Dis-Operations. (Act I. A Disarmament). Disobedience, sabotage and desertion

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute estimates that, between 2014-18 and 2019-23, European states nearly doubled their arms imports. Which suggests —-to no one’s surprise– that belligerent tensions are on the rise and, with them, the profits of the weapon industry.


Zazzaro Otto, KRIEG IN PRENZLAUERBERG, 2013


Stefano Serretta, Sutra 69 – 79 (Barricate durante la Rivolta di San Basilio, Roma, 1974), 2022. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

Theatre of Dis-Operations. (Act I. A Disarmament), an exhibition at ArtNoble Gallery in Milan, presents techniques and tactics of disarmament processes as the primary urgency of contemporary society. Theater of operations, or theater of war, is the military term for the geographical area where an armed conflict takes place. It was also the title of MoMA’s 2019 exhibition Theater of Operations – The Gulf Wars 1991-2011. The exhibition at ArtNoble Gallery, however, goes beyond these two reference points by turning the theater of operations into a theatre of dissent, demilitarisation and desertion.


Délio Jasse, Francobollo 1975, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Zazzaro Otto, Per fare un tavolo ci vuole la guerra / To Make a Table You Need War, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

Theatre of Dis-Operations is more than an exhibition, it is an invitation to push back against the normalisation and mercantilism of violence. The anti-military tactics and subversive procedures presented in the show range from sabotage to deconstruction of military symbols, from desertion to grassroots resistance against economic macrosystems that feed military culture. They are non-violent actions and tools to shake off hopelessness, attention fatigue and loss of humanity.

The show finds additional relevance in Italy, where far-right minister Matteo Salvini –never short of ideas he won’t pay the consequences of.- has proposed to bring back compulsory military service. I love every single artwork in the show. Here’s a few words about some of them:


Paolo Ciregia, Pugni, 2019

At the beginning of the war in the Donbas region of Ukraine, Paolo Ciregia photographed a group of soldiers. He focused on their hands. The image is striking: it is life-size and welcomes the visitor to the gallery with its tension and restrained aggressiveness. Hence the title: Pugni (“fists” in English). The hands are empty but they appear ready to take arms. The composition of the image –soldiers without faces, simple attires, unspecified location– suggests that these bodies are interchangeable, they are mere peons to be sacrificed in imperialist conflicts.


Paolo Ciregia, (CTS) “capture the shield”, 2024

I also loved Ciregia’s (CTS) “capture the shield”. The ready-made is a shield that Ukrainian soldiers stole from the Russian police and covered with Ukrainian revolutionary stickers.


Zazzaro Otto, KRIEG IN PRENZLAUERBERG, 2013

Zazzaro Otto built a Long John cargo bike using old bike parts and DDR army material. The work, titled KRIEG IN PRENZLAUERBERG (war in Prenzlauerberg), derides the omnipresence of this type of green transport vehicle in the Berlin district. Associated with the rapid gentrification of the area, the aesthetic of the bicycle also alludes to Germany’s weapon industry. KRIEG IN PRENZLAUERBERG is thus an ambiguous object that points both to Germany’s most deadly, polluting exports and to the capitalistic dimension of the country’s ecological ambitions.


Zazzaro Otto, Per fare un tavolo ci vuole la guerra / To Make a Table You Need War, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Zazzaro Otto, Per fare un tavolo ci vuole la guerra / To Make a Table You Need War, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

The other vehicle Zazzaro Otto shows at ArtNoble is full of contrasts and interrogations.

The motorcycle blasts Per fare un tavolo ci vuole la guerra, a take on a famous children’s song that says “You Need a Flower to Make a Table” (the French are more ambitious, their version says You Need a Flower to Make a World). At the back of the vehicle is a pile of books with titles such as Caro duce – Lettere di Donne Italiane a Mussolini 1922-1943 (Dear Duce, Letters of Italian Women to Mussolini), Mein Kampf Ilustrado by Clément Moreau or Tossici (in English: Tripped: Nazi Germany, The CIA and the Dawn of the Psychedelic Age ) by Norman Ohler.

The hostility of the words is softened by the voices of the children in the song and by the air of escapism and childish innocence of the modified bike.


Arijit Bhattacharyya, The Blue Tiger, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

Another example of peaceful and poignant refusal of violence is the re-appropriation of cultural symbols. Arijit Bhattacharyya, for example, repurposed the protest costumes used by the Bangali community during protests against the discrimination and marginalisation they face in India.


Agnese Barbarani, Oggetti di lotta, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Agnese Barbarani, Oggetti di lotta, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Agnese Barbarani, Oggetti di lotta, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Agnese Barbarani, Oggetti di lotta, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti


Agnese Barbarani, Oggetti di lotta, 2024. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

In her archive of sabotage, Agnese Barbarani documents the tools used by CALP (Collettivo Autonomo Lavoratori Portuali: Autonomous Collective of Port Workers) to hinder the ships that transport weapons to the Middle East from the port of Genoa. The objects are photographed as if they were letters of the alphabet.

Along with the objects, the artist also documents the flyers and posters printed by the collective as well as reference essays such as L’ape e il comunista written by members of the Red Brigades while they were in prison.

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Thiago Dezan, Untitled, 2024. From the series Ejército Zapatista de Liberación Nacional

One of the most arresting work in the show is Thiago Dezan’s portrait of Zapatista women who are actively participating in new forms of self-management and resistance against the Mexican cartels in Chiapas.


Critical Art Ensemble, Marching Plague, 2005-2007. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

Critical Art Ensemble’s Marching Plague analyses the complex political economy of fear that supports the development of UK-US bioweapons research and addresses the paranoia surrounding bioterrorism. The film centres on the reenactment of secret sea trials conducted by the UK government in the 1950s. Studying the history and science of anthrax and other bioweapons, CAE concludes that biological weapons lack the efficiency required to produce the widespread devastation typically associated with bioterrorism.


Infinite, PARAPHRASES, 2021-ongoing. Installation view at ArtNoble Gallery. Photo: Michela Pedranti

“…..No matter if people suffer….” “…because we know that wars are all about money…”, “…to destroy and dissolve every hopes…” The video PARAPHRASES, by anonymous artist Infinite, brings to light the subtext of commercial videos that promote the services and products engineered by the biggest warmongering industries. The slogans are shockingly vicious, but they also speak the truth: wars are extremely lucrative and there’s always someone somewhere who rubs their hands with glee when a new conflict emerges.


Stefano Serretta, Sutra 69 – 79 (Copertina Rosso numero 24, aprile 1976, “Operai contro la Metropoli”, 2022

Stefano Serretta‘s drawings use archive images of guerrilla actions and protests that took place in Italy in the 1970s to celebrate international solidarity networks for desertion.

Theatre of Dis-Operations. (Act I. A Disarmament), produced in collaboration with Sa.turn and curated by Arnold Braho with Stefano De Gregori and Giordano Cruciani, closed a couple of weeks ago at ArtNoble Gallery.

Related stories: War as a consumer good, Interview with Nicolás Kisic Aguirre: building a disobedient robotic world, Culture Jamming. Activism and the Art of Cultural Resistance, etc.

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Tombras Acquires New York Agency The Burns Group

Global independent agency Tombras has acquired The Burns Group, an independent advertising agency based in New York. The acquisition further bolsters Tombras’ capabilities with top CPG clients, including the Swiss cough drop brand Ricola, which Tombras will take over as creative AOR. The Burns Group also works with Haleon brands, previously serving as AOR for…

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Adtech Firm Chalice’s Tool Ups Buyers’ Access to Quality Media on the Open Web

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Anniversary-Celebrating Calendars – Sanrio Introduces a New Collection of 2024 Calendar Downloads

(TrendHunter.com) Sanrio continues to celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary with a collection of 2024 calendar downloads that can be accessed for free. There are still a few months to enjoy the calendars…

‘Joker’ Sequel Falls Far Short of Original at the Box Office

The bleak musical drama is on track to open to around $45 million, less than half of what the 2019 version made on its first weekend.

Top 50 Kitchen Trends in October – From Portable Air Fryer Appliances to Automated Espresso Machines (TOPLIST)

(TrendHunter.com) This list of October 2024 kitchen trends highlights recent innovations in both appliance technology and smart lighting integration. From wireless power transfer to customizable lighting, these…

David Burnham, Times Reporter Who Exposed Police Graft, Dies at 91

Tipped off by the detective Frank Serpico, he wrote an explosive series on police corruption in New York City, sparking an investigation by the Knapp commission.

Top 55 Mobile Trends in October – From AI-Enhanced Foldable Smartphones to Modular Mobile Phones (TOPLIST)

(TrendHunter.com) This list of October 2024 mobile trends highlights significant advancements in smartphone technology and automotive mobile applications. From innovative foldable phones to AI-driven vehicle support,…

Top 75 Autos Trends in October – From High-End Gravel eBikes to Pampering Rideshade Cars (TOPLIST)

(TrendHunter.com) This list of October 2024 autos trends highlights significant advancements in AI-driven vehicle repair assessments and hybrid SUV technology. From innovative AI solutions to updated hybrid models,…

Top 55 Computers Trends in October – From Dynamic Large-Display Tablets to Open-Source AI Processors (TOPLIST)

(TrendHunter.com) This list of October 2024 computer trends highlights significant advancements in AI processing and versatile computing devices. From high-performance AI engines to portable Chromebooks, these trends…

5 Letters That Will Change Your Life

In our digital age, a letter may seem like an old-fashioned gesture, but its impact can still be powerful and life-changing. There’s something special about the thought, time, and emotion put into handwritten words, and certain letters hold the potential to reshape your life’s path. Whether filled with joy, heartbreak, or encouragement, these letters mark important moments that stay with us forever. Below, we explore five significant letters that can change your life, including a magical letter from Santa and the dreaded “Dear John” letter.

1. The Letter from Santa: A Child’s Gateway to Magic

A few things capture the essence of childhood wonder, such as a letter from Santa Claus. For a child, receiving a personalized letter from the North Pole, signed by Santa himself, can be a life-changing moment filled with joy, excitement, and magic.

This type of letter goes beyond holiday cheer. It taps into the power of belief and imagination. When a child opens a letter that mentions their name, favourite activities, and Christmas wishes, they feel seen and valued. The magic of Santa becomes real in that moment. A letter from Santa also serves as a tool for encouraging good behaviour, reinforcing kindness, and creating memories that last a lifetime.

But the impact isn’t limited to children. Parents, too, experience the magic through their children’s eyes, rekindling their own belief in the simple joys of life and the importance of making moments memorable.

2. The “Dear John” Letter: When Heartbreak Brings Growth

At the opposite end of the emotional spectrum is the infamous “Dear John” letter—a breakup letter that ends a romantic relationship. While the moment of receiving a “Dear John” letter is often filled with pain and confusion, it can also be a turning point that leads to growth and self-discovery.

The heartbreak and loss associated with a breakup can teach valuable lessons about resilience, self-worth, and independence. In the long run, many people who receive this type of letter eventually realize they need to find something more aligned with who they are. Though painful, it’s a catalyst for reflection, transformation, and, often, a new chapter filled with personal growth.

3. The Love Letter: A Testament of Devotion

Few letters hold as much emotional weight as a love letter. Love letters can change lives, Whether from a partner expressing their deep affection or a secret admirer declaring feelings for the first time.

A love letter goes beyond words—it is a testament to someone’s devotion, feelings, and connection. It can rekindle the passion in a long-term relationship, create new bonds, or even remind you of a love that once was. The vulnerability of sharing raw emotion through writing deepens relationships and can lead to pivotal life moments like engagement, marriage, or reconciliation after a difficult time.

Receiving a love letter has a lasting impact. It’s often cherished and kept for years, revisited during hard times to remind us of our worth and the love we have in our lives.

4. The Acceptance Letter: A Door to New Opportunities

An acceptance letter—whether for a job, university, or a particular program—can change the trajectory of someone’s life in an instant. It’s the physical representation of opportunity and potential. After months or even years of effort, the words “Congratulations, you’ve been accepted” can open doors that lead to personal growth, financial stability, or the fulfilment of long-held dreams.

For many, an acceptance letter marks the beginning of an entirely new chapter. It may mean moving to a new city, embarking on a career path, or pursuing a field of study that leads to lifelong passion. The thrill of receiving an acceptance letter validates hard work and encourages us to push further toward our goals.

5. The Goodbye Letter: Closure and Healing

Saying goodbye is never easy, but a goodbye letter can provide the closure necessary to heal and move forward. Whether it’s a letter written to a friend before moving away or sent to someone after losing a loved one, these letters help people process the emotions that come with endings.

A goodbye letter allows final words, unfinished thoughts, or long-held emotions to be expressed. It gives the writer and the recipient a chance to reflect on shared experiences and find peace after a chapter. While goodbye letters can be filled with sadness, they also offer a sense of healing and acceptance.

Letters whether they bring joy, heartbreak, love, or closure—uniquely touch our hearts and change our lives. From the magic of a letter from Santa to the bittersweet end of a “Dear John” letter, these written words carry immense emotional weight. Whether they signal new beginnings, difficult transitions, or reflections on the past, letters shape our journeys in ways we might not expect.

So, the next time you sit down to write—or receive—a letter, remember the power of those words (and don’t forget to put a stamp on it). You might just be holding the beginning of a life-changing moment in your hands.
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Here’s the Roundup for the Week Ending October 4

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Honda’s Reverse Poem About Failure Is an Ode to F1 Legends

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Revolving Door Roster Updates: Betty, Dentsu, Sid Lee & More

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