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Source : https://www.businesstoday.in/magazine/industry/consumption-gets-a-bharat-boost/story/417419.html#:~:text=From%20electronic%20products%2C%20furniture%20and,big%20cities%20in%20consumption%20revival
From electronic products, furniture and cars to apparel, fashion accessories and food, smaller towns are outpacing metros and big cities in consumption revival. Will this sustain?
October 18, 2020 BUSINESS TODAY : Ramesh Iyer, Managing Director, Mahindra Finance, was pleasantly surprised to know that his team had disbursed 30,000 vehicle loans in June, a huge increase from April and May when business was almost zero. "We have opened 1,100 rural branches and there are footfalls and enquiries about tractor and car loans like before," says Iyer, admitting that some part of this could be pent-up demand also. "Through April and May, customers took advantage of the loan moratorium, but now they are beginning to pay up. They are requesting us to bring down the instalment amount. Can you give us a Rs 8,000 /10,000 per month EMI instead of Rs 12,000 is what they are asking for." Besides, there is also demand for additional short-term loans. "They had borrowed money during the lockdown. Now they are asking for short-term loans, which they are confident of paying back within the next 6-12 months along with the main loan. People are cautious, but they have certainly not lost hope," adds Iyer.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
The Rebound
At a time when GDP for FY21 is estimated to shrink, and the Nielsen consumer confidence index at 123 points is 15 points lower than 2019, Iyer sounds a bit too optimistic. Add to this the job losses and salary cuts across sectors, and there's little to cheer about.
Here perhaps banking on a silver lining, though most consumer goods companies, auto as well as other sectors saw either muted or negative growth in first quarter of FY21, rural and semi-urban (Tier-II, III, IV) markets bucked the trend. A recent Nielsen report says rural FMCG sales grew at three times the pace of urban India sales in June.
While overall industry grew at 4.5 per cent in June (vis-a-vis June 2019), rural markets saw 12.5 per cent growth, according to the Nielsen report. In contrast, urban grew by just 0.4 per cent. The consumption appetite in Tier-II, III towns and cities, according to KPMG India's consumer sentiment survey, Time To Open My Wallet, is 1.9 times more than that of metros and Tier-I cities. "Our survey indicates that Tier-II, III consumers are more liberal than Tier-I consumers in spending habits, hence these could be the next focus area for retailers to expand their presence. Around 22 per cent of consumers in Tier-II and 30 per cent in Tier-III cities said their spending will either increase or remain the same as prior to Covid," says Harsha Razdan, Partner and Head, Consumer Markets and Internet Business, KPMG India.
From FMCG majors such as Hindustan Unilever (HUL), Britannia, ITC and Marico to auto companies such as Maruti Suzuki and Hero Motors, and appliance majors such as Godrej Appliances and Panasonic – the Bharat or small town India story has played out well. According to HUL Chairman and MD Sanjiv Mehta, rural and smaller markets played a big role in the company's 7 per cent growth in Q1FY21. "The last three months have seen a clear bounce back by rural India," says Mehta. Similarly, for Britannia, rural sales have grown three times (38-39 per cent) faster than urban sales, says MD Varun Berry.
For another major player Dabur, rural contributed 45 per cent to its Q1FY21 sales, while for Marico India, it was 35 per cent. A significant number of 5,63,426 motorcycles and scooters Hero MotoCorp sold in the first quarter was in small town India. The rural share of India's largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki in the first quarter of the current fiscal went up to 42 per cent as against 38.5 per cent a year ago.
Caution Is Key
But experts are not ready to uncork the bubbly yet. According to Crisil Chief Economist Dharmakirti Joshi, rural and smaller markets may be less hit compared to larger cities, but are far from booming. "Consumption has indeed gone up in these markets compared to April-May, but the transition to normalcy will not happen until a vaccine is available."
One of the reasons for the demand uplift in rural and smaller markets is lesser number of Covid cases. The pandemic has been rampant in bigger cities. The government has also done its bit to step up spending with initiatives such as the Rs 40,000-crore allocation for MGNREGA and the Rs 1-lakh-crore Agri Infrastructure Fund. But the biggest factor, of course, has been the normal progress of the monsoon. This year has seen a record rabi harvest. The kharif outout is also expected to rise.
A large part of the small town India consumption story is also due to the reverse migration of labourers post the lockdown. In fact, reverse migration, says Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist, Care Ratings, brought down per capita income of rural households – there are now six-seven people working in a farm, compared to four-five earlier.
He, however, adds, "While one advantage is that the amount of acreage of cultivation has increased since there are more hands, the income also has to be distributed among a larger section of people. So, per capita income will not increase significantly. The talk that rural economy will propel consumption will not happen that easily since more people are working there now."
In fact, R.S. Sodhi, Managing Director, Amul, says consumption in small town India, especially in Bihar and UP, which has seen the highest percentage of reverse migration, isn't actually as high as it was in April and May. "Most of these migrants had money when they went back which they spent, but now their resources have dried up and hence spends have dipped considerably. I don't think schemes such as MGNREGA have helped consumption. Prices of cotton, poultry, vegetables have come down. Barring Gujarat, milk prices have dipped by over 25 per cent. The farmers are under a lot of pressure."
Iyer of Mahindra Finance agrees there is indeed a cautious approach among consumers in small town India. "Customers are approaching us for loans for second-hand tractors, cars or motorcycles. They want to buy a new vehicle, but would rather wait for a while to make the big purchase."
The approach has led to a new consumption trend. Consumers are buying shampoo, cooking oil or even biscuits, but opting for smaller pack sizes. According to a report by Snapbizz, a service provider for retail billing softwares, there has been a massive growth in Rs 5-10 snack and biscuit packs. "Consumers are choosing to downtrade within their trusted brands," says Koshy George, Chief Marketing Officer, Marico India.
"There are more takers for our value brands such as Garnier and even there it is the Rs 50-100 price-point which is doing well compared to the more expensive offerings at Rs 250-300 price points. This trend will continue till the end of this fiscal. We are headed for a year of belt tightening among consumers as they reprioritise expenditure," agrees Amit Jain, Managing Director, LOreal India.
And those buying larger packs are mainly doing it for stock-piling, especially in case of staples. "Coronavirus has created a fear that shops will close down without prior notice and there will be no essentials at home. During the lockdown, customers even bought large packs of biscuits and snacks. Now, most of them are buying smaller packs of products such as biscuits, snacks and even shampoos and soaps, but when it comes to staples such as rice, dal, oil and floor-cleaners, people want to hoard. A lot of them are buying five-litre jars of sanitisers too," says Pranav Patel, owner of Satguru Kirana store in Kadi town of Gujarat.
Covid-19 has made consumers a lot more hygiene conscious, resulting in a move towards packaged products. Also, thanks to job losses and a slowing economy, value products are taking centrestage. Arjun Choudhury, owner of Maa Bhavani Traders in Mathaniya, a few kilometres from Jodhpur, says he is now selling packs of loose commodities such as atta, sugar and rice. "The atta I sell costs Rs 30 less than established brands, but consumers are happy to buy the packed atta."
The move towards in-store brands is high in cities as well. "In Tier-1 cities, people were going for premium brands in April-May, but now they are shifting towards packed items. The percentage of kirana stores selling loose items in Tier-1 markets has reduced from 50 per cent to 35 per cent," says Prem Kumar, Founder and CEO, Snapbizz.
Car and motorcycle buyers are opting for cheaper models too. "Popular brands such as Splendor, Passion, HF Deluxe, Maestro Edge, and Pleasure+ continue to attract customers. However, given the negative impact on the economy, customers may downshift to a lower variant within the intended model, although it may be too early to read into trends," says Naveen Chauhan, Head of Sales and After-Sales at Hero MotoCorp.
"With income levels going down, people are buying smaller cars. They are holding on to their old cars for longer. Replacement buying has come down, but first-time buying has gone up," says Shashank Srivastava, Executive Director, Maruti Suzuki.
Durables Shopping
The KPMG survey says 30 per cent of Indians (both in metros and smaller markets) have expressed interest in either upgrading their existing washing machines, microwaves or refrigerators or are first-time buyers. The consumer durables industry, according to a report by the Retailers Association of India, has been among the fastest to bounce back in the Covid-19 era. The sector reported a fall of 19 per cent, compared to sectors such as apparel, beauty and jewellery, which shrunk 60-70 per cent.
Manish Sharma, CEO and President, Panasonic India, says there has been a significant drop in impulse buying among consumers across metros and smaller markets. However, the new reality of working from home and not having the luxury of domestic help have led consumers to invest in durables. "Consumers are investing in technologically advanced appliances that are easy to use, connected (enabling them to multi-task), and are energy efficient. For instance, because of Do It Yourself (DIY) cooking trend, we are witnessing a huge demand for our microwave ovens across markets. Similarly, the rise in rich content across OTT platforms has led to demand for smart LED TVs across smaller markets and metros."
Similarly, there has been a huge spurt in demand for large-sized refrigerators across markets. The refrigerator penetration in small town India is just about 30 per cent, but according to Kamal Nandi, Business Head and EVP, Godrej Appliances, "Unlike other categories where consumers are down-trading, I don't see that trend in the consumer durables sector. A washing machine or a large refrigerator is being looked upon as essential as people have to manage without domestic help. We are seeing demand across value and premium offerings."
Ritesh Ghosal, Chief Marketing Officer, Croma, says sales of stores located in Tier-II and III markets such as Kolhapur, Nashik, Mandya and Vapi have doubled in the Covid era. "There is a lot of first-time demand coming from these places. Also, people are coming to large spaces from a safety perspective."
The lockdown has forced children to do home-schooling through online platforms such as Zoom. This has led to a surge in sales of value smartphones between the price points of Rs 6,000 and Rs 10,000. Anshu Shukla, owner of Lucknow-based handset retailer, Shukla Agencies, says while the demand for high-end smartphones has dipped by over 90 per cent, there are a lot of takers for cheaper models. Amit Sharma, CEO, Shop X, says over 40 per cent of mobile retailers his company distributes to, have seen a 20 per cent increase in demand in the value category. "In fact, most retailers, who have experienced a decline in sales, are seeing an increase in margins. There is low price sensitivity among customers for this category, which is leading to higher margins. The average consumer does not want to go to multiple stores and compare prices due to safety reasons, so the pricing pressure on retailers has reduced. Even though there is a drop in demand, it is being made up by higher margins," explains Sharma.
Shukla of Shukla Agencies agrees. Margins have increased by 20-30 per cent, he says. "Companies could not manufacture during the lockdown, so supply is limited. We are now selling at MRP and not giving the 5-10 per cent discount that we usually do, which has improved margins."
Marketers are leaving no stone unturned to capitalise on the rising demand in smaller markets. "With migrant workers shifting back to their hometowns and the government announcing additional spend on MGNREGA and higher MSPs, rural consumption will see an uptick. A normal monsoon has further improved sentiment in the hinterland. Going forward, rural demand will continue to outpace urban demand. The gap between rural and urban demand growth may narrow a bit with labour returning to cities, but rural growth will continue to outpace urban," says Dabur CEO Mohit Malhotra. The company plans to increase its distribution footprint in rural areas to 60,000 villages by the end of FY21. "We are also expanding our product basket in the rural market by way of newer low unit price or affordable packs across categories to boost demand," he adds.
FMCG major ITC also plans to push its hygiene agenda in smaller towns and rural markets. "ITC Savlon launched its hand sanitiser at just 50 paise. The Savlon hand sanitiser in a sachet format at this price makes it probably the world's most economical hand sanitiser. The sachets address the issues of accessibility, affordability and availability. We expect quick adoption of Savlon sachets by rural consumers," says B. Sumant, Executive Director, ITC. The tobacco major, which is desperately trying to reduce its dependence on cigarettes by riding heavily on its FMCG businesses, recently launched a host of new products, including NimWash vegetable and fruit wash, Savlon Surface Disinfectant Spray, Savlon Germ Protection Wipes, Savlon Hexa body wash and soap.
Britannia and Marico are also reprioritising their product portfolios. Britannia has opted for the 80:20 formula and has chosen to manufacture only 20 per cent of its stock-keeping units (SKUs) which garner 80 per cent of revenues. "We sided with efficiency over variety, which was a prudent call," says Britannia's Berry. "We have tried to rationalise our portfolio because at a time like this complexity doesn't work. We have identified markets where lower price-point SKUs work better as well as markets such as Punjab and Rajasthan where there is more large-pack consumption," adds George of Marico.
According to Sanjesh Thakur, Partner, Risk Advisory,Deloitte India, companies have realised that in order to be successful in the next 10 years, they have to do everything that they can to tap into rural demand. "They are in talks with state governments to allow them to set up their manufacturing facilities closer to the market. If your logistics cost for a Rs 100 MRP product is Rs 8, you can reduce it to Rs 2 if you produce closer to the market," explains Thakur. In fact, Britannias MD Berry says it was distributed manufacturing and multiple plants that gave the company an edge over peers during the lockdown. "Between us and our contract manufacturers, we have got almost 40 plants, so we were closer to our consumers." Britannia, with revenue, EBITDA and PAT growth of 26.7 per cent, 81.7 per cent and 105.4 per cent, respectively, in Q1FY21, has surprised the market.
Thakur of Deloitte adds companies not only want to manufacture closer to the markets but are also looking at more agile supply chain mechanisms (like more direct-to-consumer models) even in smaller markets. "Supply chain agility will become important as customers, even in smaller markets, will not wait 10-12 days for a product."
While Tier-II and III markets contribute 65 per cent to Godrej Appliance's revenues, Panasonic has launched a business function called 'Bharat Marketing' to tap into this new customer base. "It will focus on gathering real-time information on inventory and identify insights from these markets in order to create and execute an effective strategy. For instance, in places where there are frequent power cuts, we offer our fixed-speed, window AC range, which helps regulate room temperature. Similarly, we have focused products such as direct cool refrigerators, semi-automatic washing machines and TVs in the starting range that are in demand across Tier-II, III and IV markets," explains Sharma of Panasonic.
Gearing Up
Apart from considerably strengthening their sales force, especially in rural and semi-rural markets, auto companies are wooing consumers in smaller markets through flexible loans. "Consumers want flexibility, so, we have a scheme where one can skip three EMIs. People also want a smaller down-payment, so we have launched a step payment scheme. We have spoken to banks and have come up with tailor-made schemes for our consumers," explains Srivastava of Maruti.
Similarly, Hero is offering customised financing solutions to its rural customers with initiatives such as flexi cash and tie-ups with micro financiers. It is also using digital platforms for faster document management. "Retail finance is not only a tool, but a necessity for the huge population of 'intending buyers', which enables them to purchase a two-wheeler. Our captive finance arm Hero FinCorp is present at almost all our channel partner stores and ensures region-specific finance products," says Chauhan.
Digital Surge
The lockdown has increased the number of digital natives. According to Chaudhury, who runs a kirana store in Mathaniya, a few kilometres from Jodhpur, over 40 per cent of his clientele have switched to WhatsApp shopping in the Covid era. "Earlier, people preferred coming to the store and buying. Nowadays, most of them prefer coming just once in a month and buy in bulk," he explains. What is even more interesting is that this town in the interior of Rajasthan, with a population of less than 5,00,000, has taken to digital payment in a big way. Chaudhury says 50 per cent of his clients prefer paying through Google Pay. According to the KPMG survey, consumers have embraced online shopping more than ever before, and those in Tier-II and III cities are more inclined towards shopping online via digital payment modes. "E-commerce segments (such as grocery, pharmacy, fitness, etc) have seen a sharp spike in customer adoption during the pandemic. These segments have seen 60-100 per cent increase in orders per day compared to pre-Covid levels. These new customers have been acquired at a significantly lower cost in the past three-four months, leading to better unit economics," says Rishav Jain, Senior Director and Consumer and Retail Lead, Alvarez and Marsal. Discounts for some of the online segments have reduced by 5-15 percentage points in the past three-four months, leading to better gross margins, he adds.
Companies, from FMCG to auto and finance, have been on an aggressive digital engagement spree. Srivastava of Maruti Suzuki says consumers are asking for digital interfaces even in smaller towns instead of dealer visits. "Earlier only 3 per cent of enquiries came from our digital platform. Last year, it increased to 13 per cent. Today, 35 per cent of enquiries are coming from our website."
"The moment we get an online enquiry, we give the details to our local dealers. Web customers want immediate response and our target is less than one hour," he adds.
Godrej Appliances, on the other hand, invested in training its dealers to have their own digital interfaces during the lockdown. "More than 15,000 of our 26,000 dealers have e-stores. Their sales through digital are steadily moving up," claims Nandi of Godrej Appliances.
But the big question is, will the Bharat story sustain?
Not everyone is hopeful. "Only 30-40 per cent of the rural income comes from agriculture. The rest of it is non-agriculture… An SME in a rural area, which supplies leather to industries in other parts of the country, cannot function well if the demand for his products comes down in the urban markets," explains Sabnavis of Care Ratings.
"Rural demand will not pick up until urban picks up. Rural can produce only if urban consumes," agrees Sodhi of Amul. Moreover, with the number of Covid cases increasing in smaller towns, one isn't sure if those markets still have an advantage. "If you look at the latest list of cities impacted by Covid-19, there is Vishakapatnam, Kakinada, Lucknow, etc, so the precious protected status that Tier-II India had is no longer there," points out Jain of LOreal.
Kumar of Snapbizz calls the recent surge in demand an increase in sales in smaller markets and not so much an increase in consumption. "When you say increase in consumption, you say people are eating and drinking more or are upgrading their purchasing behaviour. Just because 100 people moved from a city to a village, one can't say there is an increase in consumption. Once there is frustration with jobs, they will all go back to cities to make money." Kumar calls it a supply chain correction that will not last too long. "People are going to be conservative about the way they use their money," he adds.
"Consumption hasnt gone up. We have stores across 17 locations and demand isnt buoyant. Consumption hasnt picked up in smaller markets either," says Arvind Mediratta, CEO, Metro Cash & Carry
So, what will growth be like going ahead? "The alphabet will be scripted by Covid. It all depends on when there will be a vaccine. As per Crisil, 10 per cent of the GDP will be completely lost, it will be a big hit," says Joshi.
So, though India Inc. is investing heavily in smaller markets, one needs to wait and watch whether the Bharat story will actually play out in the long run.
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Somewhere in the Skies
Ryan Sprague/ Entertainment One (eOne)
Somewhere in the Skies is a weekly podcast covering UFOs and the unexplained. Hosted by author and television host, Ryan Sprague, and journalist, Chrissy Newton, they explore the unknown through case histories, special guest interviews, and through audio documentaries. Join Ryan and Chrissy as they try to make sense of the mysteries that lay somewhere in the skies. New episodes every Monday. Learn more at www.somewhereintheskies.com
Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies.
Witness Accounts: Volume 25
On episode 301 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we hear another powerful collection of UFO stories from you, the listeners. From a staggering five different sightings of a triangular UFO over a U.S. Navy base in California to a "Ferris-Wheel" like object witnessed by a well-known UFO podcast host. As always, we span decades and continents to hear the accounts of those who looked up and witnessed the vast array of mysteries that lay somewhere in the skies.Special thanks to those who shared their stories. If you would like to submit your UFO story, contact Ryan at: Ryan.Sprague51@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
BONUS: The Thing (1982) - A Movie Review
In a special movie review episode, Ryan is joined by two of his closest friends and colleagues for another movie review! Returning to the show are television writer and filmmaker, Andrew Sanford, and actor/producer, Nick Westemeyer. The three discuss John Carpenter's 1982 classic sci-fi/horror film, "The Thing." Considering this film had somehow eluded Ryan as both a filmmaker and UFO researcher, it was about damn time he finally sat down to watch it. Join Ryan, Andrew, and Nick as they navigate their way through this cult-classic film where nothing is quite as it seems... and nobody and noTHING can be trusted as an alien threat invades not from above, but from within! Follow Nick Westemeyer on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/NwestemeyerFollow Andrew Sanford on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/SanfordMinusSonWatch Dennis Cahlo's Video Essay on "The Thing": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhZ1MmwrbAI&t=24sPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The UAP Report and the 300th Episode
On episode 300 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are celebrating... the 300th episode! We've hit another milestone at the podcast. Here to celebrate are Micah Hanks and Christopher Plain of The Debrief. They'll be breaking down the release of the 2022 ODNI UAP/UFO Report, their favorite UAP and space-related stories of 2022 and what they are looking forward to most in 2023 when it comes to UAP, science, space, and technology. 2023 is shaping up to be a big year, and we continue to look boldly and rebelliously to an uncertain future filled with more mysteries. But hopefully, a few answers along the way!Read the ODNI UAP Report at: https://www.dni.gov/files/ODNI/documents/assessments/Unclassified-2022-Annual-Report-UAP.pdf Follow Micah Hanks on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MicahHanks Follow Christopher Plain on Twitter: https://twitter.com/plain_fictionDustin Williams Art Shop: https://vahalla-studios.myshopify.com/collections/all/dustinwilliams Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREOpening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Special Announcement and Bonus Episode!
We are happy to announce that we are now on Apple Premium! If you want Early Access to the main show and bonus episodes, now you can do it right in your Apple Podcast app. We'll be uploading dozens of previous bonus episodes in the coming weeks as well. So, if you're an Apple Podcast subscriber, or have thought about being one, you can now support the show and get these rewards without leaving the Apple Podcast app. To join, just click the Premium button at the top of the Somewhere in the Skies Apple Podcast feed.Here is a FREE bonus episode to give you a taste of what to expect with your Apple Premium subscription. This is the story of the Dechmont Woods UFO Encounter, where a UFO case became part of a criminal investigation. We hope you enjoy. And we hope you'll consider becoming an Apple Premium Subscriber today!Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Missing Time Incident at Ellsworth Air Force Base
On episode 299 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are joined by former USAF Sergeant, Mario Woods. In 1977, Woods was assigned to the surveillance and protection of weapons and nuclear materials at Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota. Woods and his partner responded to a Security-4 alert one night when the missile site and the underground storage area had been penetrated by something. Whatever that something was, he would come face-to-face with. And it would change his life forever. You'll hear the incredible story from Mario himself. And you'll never guess who was present at his debriefing of the incident. This and so much more as we explore how this event affected Mario and what possibly happened during those terrifying moments of what can only be described as "missing time."You can reach Mario Woods via email at: mwoods175@gmail.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
A70: A Scottish UFO Abduction
On episode 298 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we explore the 1992 alien abduction case of Garry Woods and Colin Wright. While traveling down the A70 road in Scotland, they would encounter a saucer-shaped craft above their car. Then, everything went black and they found themselves on the side of the road with over two hours of missing time. What exactly happened in those missing hours? Featuring Scottish UFO researcher, Malcolm Robinson, we hear the incredible story which has become one of the most famous and controversial UFO cases in Scotland. Special thanks to voiceover talents, Andy McGrillen and Mick Ford. Andy McGrillen: https://twitter.com/ufouapam Mick Ford: https://twitter.com/tabbysstarBuy Malcom Robinson's book at: https://bit.ly/3Q8SFwPPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2023 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On episode 297 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we once again travel around the world to hear the deeply mysterious and fascinating UFO stories of you, the listeners. From a massive unknown craft sighted over a military base in Canada to various UAP zipping across the skies of England, Scotland, and across the United States. These are the powerful and profound stories of everyday people like you and me who looked up into the skies and saw something looking back.Special thanks to those who submitted their stories. If you would like to share your UFO story, email Ryan directly at: Ryan.Sprague51@gmail.com to discuss. Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Wondery Presents: Frozen Head
When 90-year-old Laurence Pilgeram drops dead on the sidewalk outside his condo, you might think that's the end of his story. But, really, it's just the beginning. Because Laurence and others like him have signed up to be frozen and brought back to life in the future. And that belief will pull multiple generations of the Pilgeram family into a cryonics soap opera filled with dead pets, gold coins, grenades, fist fights, mysterious packages, family feuds, Hall of Fame baseball legends, and frozen heads — lots of frozen heads. From Wondery, comes a story about life, death, and what comes next. Follow Frozen Head on Amazon Music or wherever you get your podcasts. Hosted by Ash Kelley and Alaina Urquhart from the hit show Morbid. You can binge the entire series early and ad-free right now by subscribing to Wondery+ in Apple Podcasts or the Wondery App.Listen to Frozen Head: https://wondery.app.link/frozenhead-sitsSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Top UFO Stories of 2022
On episode 296 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are breaking down the Top UFO Stories of 2022. It has been a hell of a year for UFOs and here to join us are Andy McGrillen of That UFO Podcast, Chrissy Newton of Rebelliously Curious and the Debrief, and Vinnie Adams from Disclosure Team! We are wishing all of you a very happy holiday season. Keep looking up and looking forward as we head into another exciting year of UFOs in 2023!Donate to The Women's Refugee Commission: https://www.womensrefugeecommission.org/donate/ Follow That UFO Podcast on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/ufouapam Follow Chrissy Newton on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/chrissynewton Follow Vinnie Adams on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/disclosureteam_Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREOpening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Close Encounters of the Christmas Kind
On episode 295 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we celebrate the Holiday Season with a sleigh ride through the history of UFO cases during Christmas time! From flying saucers zipping through the snowy villages of Norwich, England, to strange lights hovering over a serviceman during the Vietnam war. From the bizarre close encounter case of a Nebraska police officer to the strange wave of triangular UFOs haunting the skies over Belgium. And don't forget the carolers that sang to their alien saviors who were coming to save them from a Christmas doomsday! You've all made the "Nice List" this year so it's a present of cosmic proportions left under the tree for you. Enjoy and keep looking up. You never know who... or what... you'll see up there! The Christmas stories don't end here. Head on over to Patreon to hear the bizarre wave of UFOs that plagued a small town in England, which would come to be known as "The Warminster Thing" : https://www.patreon.com/SomewhereSkiesSpecial thanks to our voiceover talents:Christopher Soucy: https://twitter.com/ChrisSoucyStoryVinnie Adams: https://twitter.com/disclosureteam_ Visit Silly Goose Photography and get 50% OFF your first order with promo code: SOMEWHERE50 right now: https://bit.ly/3hcvvbR Support The Women's Refugee Commission: https://www.womensrefugeecommission.org/donate/ Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Kelly Chase: The UFO Rabbit Hole
On episode 294 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are joined by author and podcast host, Kelly Chase. Chase hosts The UFO Rabbit Hole podcast, which is a speculative non-fiction podcast about UFOs. In her "real life" she's also a branding and marketing expert. Her work is centered on the role of storytelling as a catalyst for change and expanding human awareness. She recently published the book, The UFO Rabbit Hole, which tackles the content of the podcast and expands upon it. Today, Chase discusses some of the highlights of the podcast and book, including the theoretical nature, origin, and intelligences behind UFOs, the ever-evolving landscape of the UFO conversation, and a deep dive into the controversial concept of ancient alien theory.Learn more about Kelly's work at: https://uforabbithole.com/ Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ryansprague51Twitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Whitley Strieber: Communion and Beyond
On episode 293 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are joined by the one and only Whitley Strieber. Strieber is probably best known for his breakout non-fiction book, Communion, which became an instant best-seller in 1989. Communion brought the alien abduction phenomenon to the forefront of pop culture with its terrifying, yet fascinating story and its iconic book cover of what is now known as the alien "grey". The book was later made into a feature film, starring Christopher Walken as Strieber. Since then, Strieber's journey with what he calls "The Visitors" has only grown stronger, especially after the passing of his wife. Today, Strieber will discuss the pinnacle experience that drove him to write Communion, his continuing search to find answers, the connections between UFOs and the afterlife, and then he answers listener questions.Follow all of Whitley Strieber's work at: https://www.unknowncountry.com/Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The Navy, NASA, and UFOs with John Greenewald Jr.
On episode 292 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, John Greenewald Jr. returns to discuss all the latest UFO news, including the Navy's response to Greenewald's requests on declassified UFO videos, NASA's involvement in UAP investigations, and the private sector UFO group, UAPx recently briefing members of the Armed Services Committee. And of course... where the hell is the damn UAP report!? It's a wide-ranging discussion with the Black Vault's very own John Greenewald Jr. Learn more about The Black Vault at: https://www.theblackvault.com/Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mitch Horowitz: UFOs and Uncertain Places
On episode 291 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we are joined by author, lecturer, and occultist, Mitch Horowitz. Horowitz is a historian of alternative spirituality and one of today's most literate voices of esoterica and mysticism. He is writer-in-residence at the New York Public Library, lecturer-in-residence at the Philosophical Research Society in Los Angeles, and the PEN Award-winning author of the book, Occult America. Today, he joins Ryan and author, witch, and occultist, Sarah Lyons, to discuss his new book, Uncertain Places, and also to discuss the more esoteric side of UFOs, their liminal place in the occult, and then Horowitz answers your listener questions. Order Mitch Horowitz's books and learn more at: https://bit.ly/3taBnEH Order Sarah Lyons books at: https://bit.ly/3DPiw7dPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On episode 290 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, it is a brand-new installment of witness accounts. From seeing a grey alien on the sidewalk in New Jersey to a possible moment of contact with the Phoenix Lights craft in 1997. We then head to the UK and Australia to hear the accounts of several witnesses who experienced all different types of anomalous phenomena. It is yet another emotional and profound volume of accounts that continue to have us seeking answers to these mysteries, somewhere in the skies. Special thanks to those who shared their stories in this episode. If you would like to share your UFO story, you can contact us at the socials below or by using the contact tab on the website. Patreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREBook your Cameo video with Ryan at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
James Fox: Moment of Contact
On episode 289 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we welcome back documentary filmmaker, James Fox, to discuss his latest film, Moment of Contact. A follow-up to the 2020 hit, The Phenomenon, Moment of Contact is an exploration of extraterrestrial encounters centered on a series of events in 1996 when citizens of Varginha, Brazil, reported seeing a UFO crash. The town of Varginha was cordoned off by military and emergency response teams and two creatures were captured. Fox's documentary features interviews with key eyewitnesses, experts, officials, and Brazilian Air Force General Jose Carlos Pereira. We'll discuss the film, Fox's extensive research into the case, and then Fox will answer listener questions. Watch the film at: https://geni.us/MomentOfContactRyan is now on Cameo! Book your video today at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Bonus: Halloween Ends: A Movie Review
We celebrate Halloween with a review of the final installment in the latest Halloween movie trilogy, Halloween Ends. The iconic Michael Myers and Laurie Strode square off in what will be their final bloody confrontation... sorta. To break down the film and its highly divisive storyline and conclusion are actor/producer, Nicholas Westemeyer, horror director and filmmaker, Dennis Cahlo, and actress and podcast host, Bethany Watson! Was this a satisfying end to the 44 year story of Lori and "The Shape"? What was up with that shockingly disturbing opening? And who loved and hated the film? Enjoy our Halloween special and enjoy your Halloween! Follow our guests on Twitter or Instagram:Nicholas Westemeyer: https://twitter.com/NwestemeyerDennis Cahlo: https://www.instagram.com/denniscahlo/Bethany Watson: https://www.instagram.com/msbethanywatson/Ryan is now on Cameo! Book your video today at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
I was Healed by an Alien
On episode 288 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we explore a more positive side of UFO and contact experience phenomena. These are six stories of individuals from across the world who claimed to have been healed by the occupants of non-human craft. From injuries being healed to life-threatening illnesses being completely cured, all by the hands of something truly otherworldly. We also hear from Travis Walton, and why he now believes that he actually died during his abduction experience, but was brought back to life by his captors. These are the incredible stories of those who claimed to have been healed by an alien.Episode researched by Preston E. Dennett. To learn more, visit: www.prestondennett.weebly.com Special thanks to our voiceover talents:Lanitta Elder: https://www.tiktok.com/@starseedascension Brent Hand: https://www.hysteria51.com/ Karina Yzobel: https://www.instagram.com/karina.yzobel/ Alex Perone: https://www.alexperone.com/ Christopher Soucy: https://www.instagram.com/soucyman/?hl=en Ryan is now on Cameo! Book your video today at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Estimate of the Situation
On episode 287 of SOMEWHERE IN THE SKIES, we speak to Tom Orzechowski and John Zoitos, creators and writers of the upcoming comic book series, "Estimate of the Situation". This new series, covering the true history of the U.S. Government's first attempts at investigating UFOs (previous to Project Blue Book) is based on declassified documents and extensive historical research. It is an exploration into the beginning of the UFO phenomenon and the implications to its levels of secrecy. We'll discuss how the comic book came to be, what to expect, and how the past inevitably always comes back to haunt us, even when it comes to UFOs. Buy the first issue of "Estimate of the Situation": https://www.blacktielabs.nyc/View art from "Estimate of the Situation" on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/estimateofthesituation/ Ryan is now on Cameo! Book your video today at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREOfficial Store: CLICK HEREBuy Somewhere in the Skies coffee! Use promo code: SOMEWHERESKIES10 to get 10% off your order: https://bit.ly/3rmXuapOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Witness Accounts Megasode: Volumes 15-21
We continue our Witness Accounts "Megasode" series with volumes 15-21. You'll hear dozens of stories from listeners all over the world about their personal sightings and encounters with UFOs. How did it change them? Where do they stand today on just exactly what it was they saw? It's a collection of some of our most popular episodes of the podcast all in one giant megasode where we continue to search for answers to the mysteries that lay somewhere in the skies.If you would like to submit your UFO story, reach out to Ryan on any of his socials or use the contact tab on the website.Ryan is now on Cameo! Book your video today at: https://bit.ly/3kwz3DOPatreon: www.patreon.com/somewhereskiesWebsite: www.somewhereintheskies.comYouTube Channel: CLICK HEREOfficial Store: CLICK HEREOrder Ryan's book in paperback, ebook, or audiobook: https://amzn.to/3PmydYCTwitter: @SomewhereSkiesInstagram: @SomewhereSkiesPodRead Ryan's Articles by CLICKING HEREWatch Mysteries Decoded for free at: https://bit.ly/3rJpbd7Opening Theme Song, "Ephemeral Reign" by Per KiilstofteCopyright © 2022 Ryan Sprague. All rights reserved.Support this show http://supporter.acast.com/somewhere-in-the-skies. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
Despite the fact that one-in-five people in America has a disability and the Americans with Disabilities Act (prohibiting discrimination based on disability) has been law of the land for nearly 30 years, people with disabilities are not fully welcomed, respected, accepted or included in our work and communities. This is true even in the places where you think they would be – at foundations and nonprofits.
Nonprofits and foundations are full of good work and good will. Nearly three-quarters (72 percent) of people who work in the social sector say their organizations have a made a public commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and have policies that prohibit the group from denying people with disabilities equal opportunity to participate in services and activities. This new study, "Disability in Philanthropy & Nonprofits: A Study on the Inclusion and Exclusion of the 1-in-5 People Who Live with a Disability and What You Can Do to Make Things Better," examines the current landscape of disability inclusion in nonprofits and foundations, as well as what is working, what helps, and how we can all do better.
RespectAbility, who conducted this study, is a nonpartisan group working on inclusion efforts for people with disabilities. In creating this study, RespectAbility first conducted five focus groups with the Council on Foundations of philanthropists on how they do or not include people with disabilities. Then RespectAbility spoke one-on-one with 14 executives at philanthropy-serving organizations and foundations and did an analysis of online accessibility of the 25 largest foundations and nonprofits. Using all of this qualitative research, RespectAbility developed a questionnaire, which was shared with several thought and practice leaders who helped refine it. Then RespectAbility surveyed 969 people who work at nonprofits and foundations. Most of the respondents were subscribers either to The Chronicle of Philanthropyor The Nonprofit Times, each of which helped with this study.
RespectAbility looked not only at the current landscape, but also for clues as to what is working, what helps, and how we can all do better. What follows is an analysis of those findings, some of them disappointing and some that point to solutions.
Even among this very well-intentioned group, most are not doing enough – or anything – to provide people with disabilities the access and accommodations they need so they can participate, just like anyone else. Many do not know what they do not know and often have not even thought about ensuring the inclusion of people with disabilities. Even among well-meaning groups who are doing a lot on DEI overall, disability is missing. For example:
Only 14 percent say their organizations use video captions to ensure people who are deaf or hard of hearing can use the content. Captioning services are easy to use and often are free and yet 86 percent are not even attempting to take advantage of such tools.
Similarly, just 30 percent of respondents say their organizations enable people with disabilities to request accommodations like sign language interpreters on event registration forms. Asking about accommodations sends a clear signal that people with disabilities are welcome and that inclusion is a consideration
In addition, only 59 percent say their events always are held in physically accessible spaces.
What keeps these seemingly supportive and innovative organizations from doing even the bare minimum? According to the survey, bias is the top reason, cited by more than one-third (36 percent) of respondents. Whether overt or implicit, prejudice against people with disabilities is a significant barrier to meaningful inclusion efforts. Hence, people with disabilities – whose talents are considerable and can help strengthen organizations – routinely are turned away. Indeed, only 24 percent of our survey respondents said their boards include even one person with a disability. This is despite the fact that the CDC says that 1-in-4 adults has a disability, and that 66 percent of our social sector respondents say their organizations serve people with disabilities. Additionally, few in positions of power specifically are asking that organizations make including people with disabilities a priority. This means funders and others in leadership positions are not requiring or even suggesting that attention be paid to disability inclusion.
This study also sheds light on what is working in the social sector. Specifically, having a DEI policy that calls out disability as an area of focus, and including people with disabilities in board, leadership and/or staff positions, makes a big difference. Whether the policies come before the practice or vice versa is not clear from the data, but the correlation is unmistakable. By every measure, groups that are explicit about disability inclusion as a priority and groups with disability representation within their ranks are more likely to be taking action.
Orgs With No DEI Policy Orgs With a DEI Policy Orgs With a DEI Policy That Includes Disability Orgs With People With Disabilities Among Board, Staff or Leadership
Board includes people with disabilities 17% 26% 34% 45%
Professional leadership includes people with disabilities 11% 22% 28% 38%
Staff overall includes people with disabilities 27% 47% 57% 81%
Organization has made intentional efforts to recruit people with disabilities for employment, internships, volunteer or board positions 15% 26% 34% 38%
Organization asks members or grantees to intentionally include people with disabilities in their work 10% 23% 28% 25%
Organization depicts people with visible disabilities in marketing materials 28% 41% 50% 53%
Organization has an explicit public policy that people with disabilities cannot be denied an equal opportunity to participate in services and activities 58% 77% 82% 81%
Events always are held in physically accessible spaces 49% 63% 67% 71%
Website is set up properly for screen readers for people with low vision 9% 19% 24% 24%
All video content has captions for people who are deaf or hard of hearing 5% 17% 21% 20%
Public events enable people with disabilities to request accommodations such as sign language interpreters, live captioning, or food allergy alternatives 21% 34% 38% 40%
There is a process for employees, board, or trustees to request and receive accommodations if needed 20% 49% 56% 58%
Learning opportunities for staff include disability as an area of focus 23% 39% 51% 48%
This study includes actionable steps nonprofits and foundations can take to improve. There are tips for people in all facets of social sector work – leadership, communications staff, event planners, program managers, HR, and front-line direct service providers. Many steps are quite easy to take and come without cost. All that is required is the intention to do better. Learn more at https://www.respectability.org/inclusive-philanthropy.
RespectAbility is committed to inclusion for all people with disabilities. We have taken this work to all corners of the country, to Capitol Hill, to boardrooms and classrooms and greenrooms and living rooms. Now we are bringing it home. Fighting for inclusion in Hollywood or on Wall Street is challenging but having to do it in your own social sector community is demanding in a whole different way. We are looking for partners in this journey to acceptance, access, equity and a better future for people with and without disabilities alike. We hope you are with us.
For more information or to join us in these efforts, contact:
Jennifer Laszlo Mizrahi, JenniferM@RespectAbility.org
Franklin Anderson, FranklinA@RespectAbility.org
www.RespectAbility.org/inclusive-philanthropy


text:
Technology Drives the Future of the Self-Service Bar
by Allen Weiner
Are we bidding goodbye to the days of pouring out your troubles to the neighborhood barkeep? As self-service technology eases its way into the hospitality business, a few daring entrepreneurs are willing to exchange customer intimacy for efficient and increased sales.
Case in point is Tapped, a suburban St. Louis self-serve bar where 48 taps of self-service beer, wine and even cold-pressed coffee are the stars. Using a system from iPourit, owners Ryan and Lindsay Reel converted a former pizza parlor into a modern taproom where customers use an IoT bracelet to sample the various beverages. All but one beer are from Missouri or Illinois and, in keeping with the heritage of the former pizza joint, Tapped serves pizza and desserts from a local bakery.
The iPourit technology excels in such a setting because it facilitates the tasting experience in a rather seamless manner. A customer is given a special bracelet when her or she enters (after giving a credit card for a tab) and then taps their device on a special screen to taste each beer. The screens offer additional information about the beers on tap, and just to keep things slightly human, Ryan Reel and another staffer are on hand for expert advice.
Featured on CNBC's Billion Dollar Buyer, the company squared off against casino/restaurant magnate Tilman Fertitta's traditional bar. The upstart not only outsold the standard-issue model by 4x, but the reaction from customers was uniformly positive. iPourit, based in Lake Forest, Calif., operates on a business model in which it receives one cent per ounce of beverage sold, with a base cost of $1,200 per tap for basic installation. The company's clients include zPizza in Arizona, North Carolina and California, and Marriott hotels in Orlando and Baltimore.
iPourIt on Billion Dollar Buyer
While the iPourit system is on target for clients such as Tapped and other high volume establishments, the self-service model can fall flat on its face in the wrong setting and with the wrong product.
Case in point, Soma, a Portland-based kombuchery, who is experimenting with a self-service kombucha bar in Southeast Portland. Soma, a popular kombucha brand, added the self-service branch to its main speakeasy location earlier this year. The reaction to this odd implementation of technology has been, at best, lukewarm.
"I would gladly have settled for yet another f****ng coffee shop with succulents and taxidermy over this monstrosity," wrote Portland Mercury's Megan Burbank.
Aside from the fact that kombucha does not lend itself to a self-service model, the newest Soma taproom uses a funky mix of technology including an ATM-like contraption at the door. To enter the building, a customer must swipe his or her credit card. There are no store personnel in sight with only placards and other customers to advise newbies on how the system works. Tastings are a free for all where individuals can gorge themselves on free kombucha—albeit in small cups—without buying anything. To make a purchase, there are keypads to select cups, bottles or growlers for your kombucha. After a perplexing half hour in Soma's experimental shop, it's safe to say that technology works best when it enhances, not confuses, the customer's experience.
iPourit is not alone in its attempt to automate the beer dispensing experience. Pour My Beer, is a direct competitor. Meanwhile, some individual bars, such as Red Arrow Taproom near Chicago, use their own technology to offer 48 craft beers available through what it calls a "pour pass."
bar tech
drinktech
iPourit
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Kinetic Sports Medicine, is dedicated to helping patients resolve general and sports injuries as well as pain associated with illnesses and injuries. Dr. Richard Kim is a primary care sports medicine physician who has focused his practice on helping patients create a plan for the best non-operative treatment options to help them regain active lifestyles. Dr. Kim combines newer technology with the highest standards of patient care for returning to activity.
The musculoskeletal system includes bones, muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. With a focus on non-surgical treatment options, Dr. Kim offers a variety of conservative measures that can often avoid the need for surgery after an injury. Sprains, strains, and fractures are common from trauma or overuse, but the team also specializes in helping patients battling chronic injuries, osteoarthritis, and more. Non-surgical orthopedics can include physical and massage therapy, orthotics and bracing, medication, and injections with different injectates.
Harness your body's ability to heal faster and without the need for invasive surgeries. Regenerative medicine uses new technologies, including stem cell injections and platelet-rich plasma injections, to treat injuries and improve mobility through the growth of new tissue at the injury site. Regenerative medicine may improve the condition of and reduce pain in those who've experienced activity-related injuries or chronic pain from arthritis.
As a primary care sports medicine physician, Dr. Kim also offers sports-related concussion management. Full diagnostic and injury care is available at the clinic. The treatment protocol generally involves guided rest while the brain heals, which could take weeks to months. After all signs and symptoms have resolved, a patient is then cleared to resume regular activities, which can include exercise and participation in sports.
Originally from the west coast, Dr. Kim has made the Capital Region his home after attending Albany Medical College for medical school and for a fellowship in Primary Care Sports Medicine. He is involved in many local athletic organizations as a team physician and is dedicated to the upstate New York community.
As a physician with the United States Rugby teams, he is capable of caring for high level athletes and their sports-related concussion and non-operative musculoskeletal problems of all varieties and degrees.
Non-surgical physicians believe that treating injuries with the least invasive way is optimal because of the shorter recovery period and the effectiveness of the treatments. With a non-surgical based approach, Dr. Kim offers a variety of treatment options to his patients. Therapies such as stem cells and platelet-rich plasma injections are two innovative therapies available at Kinetic Sports Medicine.
Stem cells are present in different tissues throughout the body. They can be harvested from specifically adipose (fat) and bone marrow. Stem cells in the body are active in the healing of bones, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. Our stem cell procedure involves harvesting a patient's stem cells and injecting them at the injury site, where they will engage in regenerative activity to hasten healing. The entire procedure usually occurs in just a couple hours allowing patients to resume activity with minimal downtime.
Platelet-rich plasma therapy utilizes a patient's own blood for regeneration. The platelets in blood contain growth factors that can act as signals, which help with healing. The procedure involves drawing a patient's blood, separating the platelets and then injecting them at the injury site. Patients usually respond well to the process, resuming their daily activities as soon as possible.
If you are battling an injury, contact us at Kinetic Sports Medicine to consider newer technologies. We work with patients of all ages with all types of injuries and health issues. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Kim to learn more about our services. Our goal is to help you achieve your goal of leading a healthy, active lifestyle.


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Sarah Ventura is a certified hypnotherapist, fully insured by the International Association of Counselors and Therapists.
She was trained in Rapid Transformational Therapy by Marisa Peer in London, England.
Sarah is also a yoga teacher and fitness instructor, and is passionate about mind and body health.
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Darlington County
2020 S.C. Arts Commission fellowships announced
Four honored for achievement in visual art, craft, and music
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina artists in Darlington, Pickens, and Richland counties representing four arts disciplines received individual artist fellowships for fiscal year 2020 after approval by the S.C. Arts Commission board of directors. Individual artists residing in South Carolina full-time whose work covers visual arts, craft, music composition and music performance were invited to apply for fiscal year 2020 awards. Applications were up 25% over last year. Out-of-state panelists from each discipline review the applications and, based solely on their blind review of anonymous work samples, recommend recipients of each $5,000 fellowship. At its June meeting, the S.C. Arts Commission board of directors approved the following recommendations:
Adrian Rhodes of Darlington County for visual art,
Valerie Zimany of Pickens County for craft,
Fang Man of Richland County for music composition, and
Craig Butterfield of Richland County for music performance.
Fellowships recognize and reward the artistic achievements of exceptional South Carolina individual artists. Recognition from fellowship awards lends artistic prestige and often opens doors to other resources and employment opportunities. "These awards can be transformative; they lift artists' spirits and self-perception while allowing them to focus on their art. Past fellows talk about how it can be a life-changing event," S.C. Arts Commission Executive Director Ken May said. "South Carolina's artists are at the core of our creative economy and serve as indispensable contributors to quality of life in our communities. Our agency is proud to deliver these tokens of gratitude on behalf of those most affected by the work being honored: the people of South Carolina." The diverse panelists (above) who judged each discipline's nominees work in those disciplines. Reviewing the visual art and craft applicants were Wendy Earle, curator of contemporary art at the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art in Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Bruce Pepich, executive director and curator of collections of the Racine Art Museum and Wustum Museum of Fine Arts in Racine, Michigan; and Marilyn Zapf, the assistant director and curator at the Center for Craft, a national arts nonprofit headquartered in Asheville, North Carolina. Brent Milam, instructor of music theory and composition at Georgia State University; and Dr. Robert Tanner, associate professor of music at Morehouse College, reviewed the music composition applicants. Verena Lucía Anders, a conductor, pianist, vocalist, composer, music educator, and winner of multiple Grammy Awards; and Tami Lee Hughes, a concert violinist, recording artist, and music educator reviewed applicants in music performance. Four fellowships per year are awarded to artists working in rotating disciplines. One artist from each of these fields: prose, poetry, dance choreography and dance performance, will be honored in fiscal year 2021. To be eligible, artists must be at least 18 years old and a legal U.S. resident with permanent residence in the state for two years prior to the application date and throughout the fellowship period. Applications will be accepted later this summer following announcement by the S.C. Arts Commission. For more on discipline rotation, eligibility requirements, and the application process, please visit https://www.southcarolinaarts.com/grant/fel/
About the FY20 S.C. Arts Commission Fellows
VISUAL ART | ADRIAN RHODES | Darlington County Adrian Rhodes, a Hartsville, South Carolina native, received her Master of Fine Arts in painting and printmaking from Winthrop University in 2011. Printmaking forms the core of her mixed media practice, resulting in installation, paintings, editioned prints, collage, and sculptural paper pieces. Her work has shown throughout the Carolinas, including select solo exhibitions at the UNC Charlotte, City Art in Columbia, the Dalton Gallery at the Center for the Arts in Rock Hill, and the Rebecca Randall Bryan gallery at Coastal Carolina University. Her work has frequently received awards in juried competitions, including taking the top prize at VAE Raleigh's Contemporary South 2017 and Best of Show at the York County Juried Exhibition in 2013. Her work was recently featured in the Paper Worlds exhibition at the Spartanburg Art Museum. She currently teaches printmaking at the University of South Carolina. Her work can be seen at www.adrianrhodes.com, and you can follow her studio practice on Instagram: @adrian_rhodes. CRAFT | VALERIE ZIMANY | Pickens County Extensive time in Japan fostered Valerie Zimany's examinations of complex relationships, to include East and West. She spent several years there after earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia—first as a Fulbright Fellow, then completing a Master of Fine Arts at Kanazawa College of Art as a Japanese Government Scholar, and three more years in residency at the Utatsuyama Craft Workshop in Kanazawa. Her work has been included in numerous solo and group exhibitions and competitions in Japan; Korea; Billings, Montana; Philadelphia and Pittsburgh; Columbia; and more and it appears in multiple public and private collections. She was named an American Craft Council Searchlight Artist for 2007, a Ceramics Monthly Emerging Artist for 2008, and was a finalist for the Niche Award (2011) and the Society for Contemporary Craft's Founder's Prize 2013). She is department chair and associate professor of art (ceramics) at Clemson University. MUSIC: COMPOSITION | FANG MAN | Richland County Hailed as "inventive and breathtaking" by the New York Times, Fang Man's original concert music has been performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra New Music Group under the baton of Esa-Pekka Salonen, American Composers Orchestra, Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra, National Orchestre de Lorraine (France), Minnesota Orchestra, Music from China, and others. She is the recipient of Guggenheim and other fellowships and grants and the National Endowment for the Arts, Music from China, and Toru Takemitsu (Japan) awards. She has received commissions from around the world and has multiple recordings. Fang served as a resident composer in Italy, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. and has degrees from Cornell (MFA, DMA) and Beijing Central Conservatory of Music. She is currently an assistant professor at the University of South Carolina. MUSIC: PERFORMANCE | CRAIG BUTTERFIELD | Richland County Craig Butterfield is professor of double bass and jazz studies at the University of South Carolina, where he directs one of the largest double bass programs in the Southeast. He has composed, performed, and recorded in genres as diverse as classical, jazz, American folk, and World music. Notable collaborations include touring and recording with jazz trumpeter Maynard Ferguson, three albums of original music with multi-instrumentalist Jesse Jones as the Jones/Butterfield duo, three albums with classical guitarist Matthew Slotkin as Dez Cordas, a collaboration with classical pianist Charles Fugo, and a current recording project of original folk-inspired music with Boomtown Trio. Butterfield's YouTube channel featuring original performances in multiple genres has more than a quarter of a million views.
S.C. Arts Awards: S.C. African American Heritage Commission
2019 Recipient Feature Series
As the day nears for the 2019 South Carolina Arts Awards, The Hub is taking 15 days to focus on this year's recipients: nine receiving the Elizabeth O'Neill Verner Governor's Awards for the Arts and five receiving the Jean Laney Harris Folk Heritage Award, which are managed jointly by the South Carolina Arts Commission and McKissick Museum at UofSC. In between the two groups, we'll run a special feature on S.C. Arts Awards sponsor Colonial Life.
South Carolina African American Heritage Commission
Arts in Education Category | Organization The S.C. African American Heritage Commission (SCAAHC) identifies and promotes the preservation of historic sites, structures, buildings, and culture of the African American experience in South Carolina, and assists and enhances the efforts of the S.C. Department of Archives and History. A joint resolution of the General Assembly in 1993 established the South Carolina African American Heritage Council, re-established as a commission in 2001. The 15-member commission includes representatives from all regions of the state. The commission's goals are to: increase the social, political, and economic value of African American heritage; encourage and demonstrate respect for all heritage; encourage the documentation of African American heritage; institutionalize African American heritage as an ongoing goal of preservation; and explore every area of South Carolina for African American contributions. The SCAAHC is known across the state for publishing A Teacher's Guide to African American Historic Places in South Carolina. The guide was originally published in 2008, revised in 2012, then updated in 2015. But in 2016, they published the first arts-integrated supplement. The work was the product of a team of dedicated teachers and college students from across South Carolina representing grades K-12. That supplement was updated in 2018 to incorporate 2017 South Carolina College-and Career-Ready Standards for Visual and Performing Arts Proficiency. The current version added 18 lesson plans to the 22-plan 2016 supplement, giving teachers 30 potential lessons that merge arts learning with learning about African American history and achievements. Other notable arts-related accomplishments include publishing The Business of Rural Heritage, Culture and Art: An Introductory Resource Guide for Entrepreneurs; presenting FREED, African American female Civil War reenactors in 2018; featuring award-winning speaker, storyteller and artist Natalie Daise in her production "Becoming Harriet Tubman" in 2012; and presenting Opera Noire in Columbia and Hartsville in 2010. In 2017, the SCAAHC received acclaim for launching "Green Book of South Carolina," an online travel guide to S.C. African American historic and cultural sites. For more, visit their website.
South Carolina Arts Awards Day is Wednesday, May 1, 2019. The festivities begin at 10 a.m. with a reception that leads up to the awards ceremony at the UofSC Alumni Center (900 Senate St., Columbia). The event is free and open to the public. Following the ceremony, the South Carolina Arts Foundation honors the recipients and the arts community at the S.C. Arts Awards Luncheon and Art Sale. Tickets are $50. Please go here for more information and reservations.
Darlington Co. students win "Art in Business" prizes
Four honored at arts showcase
From the Hartsville Messenger/SCNow.com
The Darlington County School District has announced the four grand-prize winners of its annual Art in Business program.
The event also featured 18 other school winners and an enormous art showcase.
Art in Business creates partnerships with local businesses and organizations to celebrate the school district's best visual artists. The 18 school winners will hang in sponsoring businesses for the next year before returning to the district, while the four grand-prize winners will hang permanently in the district's administrative offices. Go check out the full story on SCNow.com to find out who the students and their arts teachers are.
South Arts awards $27,000 among seven S.C. arts groups
South Arts, a nonprofit regional arts organization, has awarded 68 grants totaling $276,949 to arts organization throughout the South. These funds, made possible through partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts, support the presentation of touring performing and literary artists in public performances and readings along with educational activities throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.
"These funds represent a major step for our organization in pursuit of our newly revised mission statement and strategic plan," said executive director Susie Surkamer (former executive director of the S.C. Arts Commission. - Ed.) "We have refocused our grantmaking guidelines to primarily support Southern artists on tour throughout our communities. The talent and artistry created within our nine states is immense, and deserves to be shared."
Organizations applied for consideration, making cases for the artistic merit of the proposed artists and the ability to develop audiences. An external panel of arts professionals reviewed each application for funding consideration. The grants must be matched at least dollar for dollar by the recipient organization. These grants represent multiple initiatives by South Arts. Performing Arts Touring grants support engagements of guest Southern artists (theatre, music, opera, musical theatre, and dance) from outside of the presenter's state. Literary Arts Touring grants support engagements of guest Southern writers (fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry) from outside the presenter's state. Launchpad grants are part of a year-long professional development program for presenters new to the field, and include the opportunity to present artists from an adjudicated roster. Dance Touring Initiative funds are part of an ongoing capacity-building program developing audiences for modern dance and contemporary ballet throughout the region. "We are so proud to support tours of diverse, talented artists representing the breadth of our region," continued Surkamer. "Some of the highlights this year include Ranky Tanky, based in coastal South Carolina, blending their Gullah heritage with influences of jazz and funk. Rosie Herrera Dance Theater of Miami is one of the nation's leading contemporary ballet companies, effortlessly working across genres including hip hop, dance theater, and cabaret. Poet Jericho Brown, an associate professor Emory University in Atlanta, is a leading voice with verses exploring race, masculinity, and community." Applications for South Arts touring grants for nonprofit and governmental organizations in the nine-state region open in the fall each year with deadlines in March and May. Additional information and a full listing of grant recipients is available at www.southarts.org.
About South Arts
South Arts advances Southern vitality through the arts. The nonprofit regional arts organization was founded in 1975 to build on the South's unique heritage and enhance the public value of the arts. South Arts' work responds to the arts environment and cultural trends with a regional perspective. South Arts offers an annual portfolio of activities designed to support the success of artists and arts providers in the South, address the needs of Southern communities through impactful arts-based programs, and celebrate the excellence, innovation, value and power of the arts of the South. For more information, visit www.southarts.org.
South Carolina's recipients
City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs (Charleston) received a $5,800 grant as part of the Dance Touring Initiative.
City of Charleston Office of Cultural Affairs (Charleston) received a $2,354 Literary Arts Touring grant to present P. Scott Cunningham in October 2018.
Midlands Technical College (Columbia) received a $5,800 grant as part of the Dance Touring Initiative.
Southern Guitar Festival and Competition (Columbia) received a $878 Performing Arts Touring grant to present Jay Kacherski in June 2019.
Coker College (Hartsville) received a $5,800 grant as part of the Dance Touring Initiative.
Arts Center of Coastal Carolina (Hilton Head) received a $5,569 Performing Arts Touring grant to present Ballet Memphis in January 2019.
Wits End Poetry (Greenville) received a $890 Literary Arts Touring grant to present Asia Samson & Daryl Funn in September 2018.
Time to make hay
The first weekend in June is just days away, and that means it's time for another arts festival in South Carolina. More low-key than its larger brethren, the Ag + Art Tour (Ag and Art Tour) continues to grow and in 2018 is spread throughout 12 counties. Ag + Art Tour is a free, self-guided tour of designated farms in South Carolina featuring local artisans and farmer's markets. During this tour you will have the opportunity to see first-hand where your food comes from, watch artists in action and purchase their works, dance to the melodies of bluegrass and folksongs, and learn more about rural life. It's the largest free farm and art tour in the nation with more 30,000 visitors participating since it began in 2012. And it's ready to, ahem, make hay for the next four weekends in the counties of:
Chesterfield County (June 2-3)
Florence County
Chester County (June 9-10)
Fairfield County (June 16-17)
Newberry County (June 23-24)
2018 Tour Times
Saturdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sundays 1-5 p.m.
Once again, yes, admission is free, but there will likely be a charge to purchase food, beverages and a farmer's and/or artisan's products. Some activities may also have a cost. Head to the Ag + Art Tour website to begin plotting the course that works for you. (And do them a solid: don't forget to use the hashtag #agandarttour in your social media posts.)
Tuning Up: the SCAC at National Press Club, more
Good morning! "Tuning Up" is a new, morning series of posts where The Hub delivers quick-hit arts stories of interest to readers. Sometimes there will be one story, sometimes there will be several. Get in tune now, and have a masterpiece of a day. And now, in no particular order...
(Image credit: South Carolina Philharmonic/Michael Dantzler)
We hope you didn't forget: Catch the National Assembly of State Arts Agencies' media briefing – featuring, in part, SCAC staff and a grantee from Colleton County – from 9:30 to 10:30 ET this morning as they talk Art of Community: Rural S.C. to a national audience in Washington, D.C. Go here for the link to watch and background information.
Thornwell School for the Arts: visual arts teacher Stacey Johnson is using crowdfunding as a modern solution to an old problem at one of the ABC Project (Arts in Basic Curriculum) schools. (Story by the News & Press)
We also hope you didn't forget: that we're celebrating a 50th anniversary. The Orangeburg Times & Democrat features artists from that area included in Eclipsing 50, an ongoing exhibit commemorating the 50th celebration, at the S.C. State Museum.
Young violinists! Apply for Florence Symphony Orchestra's Concerto Competition
Talented violinists enrolled in grades 9-12 who love performing are encouraged to enter the third annual Florence Symphony Orchestra Young Artist Concerto Competition. The competition is open to young violinists with home addresses in Darlington, Dillion, Florence, Lee, Marion or Marlboro counties. Applications, along with a performance CD, must be received by January 3, 2014. Finalists will be notified immediately and assigned a time to perform before a panel of judges on January 25, 2014, at the Francis Marion University Performing Arts Center. Prizewinners will be invited to perform their audition composition accompanied by the Florence Symphony Orchestra at the March 31, 2014, concert. Find more information and apply online. Via: Florence Symphony Orchestra
Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery accepting entries for solo exhibitions
Coker College's Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery in Hartsville, S.C., is welcoming entries for its annual review for solo exhibitions. The review committee seeks art in all media that is both visually and intellectually compelling. Regional, national and international entries are accepted. The review committee will choose five artists for solo exhibitions for the 2014/2015-season. There are no fees for entry, and some compensation will be provided for shipping, plus an honorarium for gallery talks. Entry deadline is October 25. The complete prospectus is online at www.ceceliacokerbellgallery.com. The Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery has been exhibiting visiting artists, student, and faculty shows since 1983 and is located in Gladys C. Fort Art Building, on the Coker College Campus, at 300 East College Ave., in Hartsville, S.C. Images: work by Laura Carpenter Truitt, top, and Jin Man Jo, above. Via: Cecelia Coker Bell Gallery
Artist Jean Grosser's work in new exhibition at Freedom Rides Museum
Six pieces in Coker College art professor and department chair Jean Grosser's "Transforming Hate: Freedom Riders" series will be included in a new exhibit that opens this month at the Freedom Rides Museum in Montgomery, Ala.
The new exhibit, "The Road to Equality, 2013," pairs freedom riders' 1961 mug shots with recent photographs and memories and includes a number of photographs of freedom riders taken by Eric Etheridge as part of his book, "Breach of Peace." "When I decided to include these mug shots in my artwork, I was so struck by how young these students were and what an impact they had on the future of our country," said Grosser. "It made me think of my own students, who have the same potential to affect change in society. As a teacher, I want to nurture my students' desire to change the world for the better." The opening this month coincides with the 52nd anniversary of the arrival of freedom riders to the Montgomery Greyhound bus station. Project organizers, the Alabama Historical Commission and the Alabama State Council on the Arts, intend for the exhibit to extend the award-winning work already completed on the building's exterior to both tell the story and convey importance of the 1961 freedom rides. On May 20, 1961, 21 students arrived at Montgomery's Greyhound bus station in hopes of compelling the government to enforce U.S. Supreme Court decisions outlawing segregated transportation seating and facilities. Mob violence met the interracial student group and led the Kennedy administration to issue a sweeping ruling that effectively ended segregation in interstate bus, train and air transportation. To this day the freedom rides represent, for many, a turning point in our national history and highlight the power of nonviolent protests. Grosser was one of 15 artists selected from many who responded to a national call to create artworks for the Freedom Rides Museum opening. Each of Grosser's six pieces is a "book" that opens and shuts and features the Mississippi mug shot of a freedom rider who passed through Montgomery. Racist and hate language cut from books published in the 1970s is laminated on the exterior. Inside, a frontal mug shot shows the young rider and on the opposing page is a solid black silhouette of the side shot. The set includes male and female and black and white riders. Each of these riders came through Montgomery in May or June of 1961, either through the Greyhound or Trailways station. They knew they were heading to jail in Mississippi. In addition to the works Grosser has created about health care inequities in the U.S. and racial tension in the American South, she is developing a series of pieces about being Jewish and coming to terms with ethnic and racial hatred spawned by the American Neo-Nazi movement. Grosser earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from Barnard College, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in sculpture from Alfred State College of Ceramics and a Master of Fine Arts in sculpture from Ohio University. Grosser was awarded the Individual Artist's Fellowship from the South Carolina Arts Commission and was a finalist for the Southern Arts Federation/National Endowment for the Arts Regional Fellowships in Sculpture. Her piece, "Fragments of Hate #6," was honored at the Pee Dee Regional Art Competition in 2011.
image: Joseph Carter, age 22 Via: WBTW News 13
New Harmonies exhibition explores the roots of American music
[gallery link="file"] Hartsville and Walterboro are the last South Carolina stops on the Smithsonian Institution's traveling exhibition, "New Harmonies: Celebrating American Roots Music." New Harmonies explores Americans' creative expression through music -- music known by names such as the blues, country western, folk ballads and gospel. The instruments vary from fiddle to banjo to accordion to guitar to drum, but a drum in the hands of an African sounds different than one in the hands of a European or an American Indian. Yet all the rhythms merge, as do the melodies and harmonies, producing completely new sounds -- new music. Through photographs, recordings, instruments, lyrics and artist profiles, the exhibition explores the distinct cultural identities of music that shaped America and made this country the birthplace of more music than any place on earth. The story is full of surprises about familiar songs, histories of instruments, the roles of religion and technology, and the continuity of musical roots from "Yankee Doodle Dandy" to the latest hip hop CD. New Harmonies is on exhibition at the Black Creek Arts Council in Hartsville until Nov. 11. The exhibition then moves to the Colleton County Museum and Farmers Market in Walterboro from Nov. 17 - Jan.5. Marlena Smalls and the Hallelujah Singers will perform at the opening Nov. 17. Developed as part of the Museum on Main Street program, New Harmonies is designed especially for small museums and rural audiences that lack regular access to traveling exhibitions. New Harmonies is sponsored in South Carolina by the Humanities CouncilSC. Photos (top, left to right): Blues "harpist" James Cotton. Spanish American musicians in Taos, New Mexico, 1940. American Indian Powwow, 2006. (bottom, left to right): Folk musicians, New York City, 1960s. Nathan Williams and his Zydeco Chas Chas, Louisiana. Roy Acuff at the Grand Ole Opry, 1939. Via: Humanities CouncilSC, Museum on Main Street


A secured loan is a debt that has collateral.
Many people borrow money to buy a car. The loan is secured with the car. The car is collateral. If they don't make their car payments the bank could seize the car and sell it to get their money back.


Up to date tastefully decorated. Less than 15 minutes to downtown area on a major highway. The entire family room area downstairs will be private for anyone renting this room. It has a large L-shaped couch which can sleep 2 additional people for $10/person. Bedroom also has an infrared sauna for guests to use.


I am a 22 old artist from Fremantle and I produce intricate, detailed drawings using ballpoint pen on paper. I graduated with a degree in Commerce majoring in Economics and Management but I love to explore my passion of drawing. My pieces are inspired by nature, animals and the universe where I combine and aim to transform something quite ordinary into fantasy inspired pieces.