Features
12-year-old Gregory Hyman really is a one-man band!
By BERNIE BELLAN
At the beginning of May I posted to Facebook that anyone who had an interesting story about how someone was coping during this period of self-isolation could contact me and I would consider writing a story about that person.
That led to the following response from Rishona Hyman, who herself is well-known as the owner of Aqua Essence Swim Academy: “My 12 year old son is releasing his debut album next week called Basement. It will be available on all streaming platforms May 12th and presale starts May 5. On the album Gregory plays all the instruments and mixes all the music on his own. He does this all with no help from his non musical parents – who can’t even carry a tune.”
I contacted Rishona and asked her to have Gregory call me so that I could talk with him about his interesting solo project.
On Friday, May 1st, I talked with Gregory about what led to his interest in music – and how he went about acquiring the skills needed to produce his own digital recording.
Gregory told me that he is a student at St. Johns Ravenscourt. It turns out he discovered early on that he has a precocious ability to learn different musical instruments.
Gregory has not only taught himself how to play an assortment of different instruments, he also writes his own songs, and sings them as well, he proceeded to explain to me during the course of our conversation.
And, as Rishona noted in her email to me, Gregory was just about to release his first digital album – on May 12.
Gregory explained that “I’ve always been into music, but it really started when I started playing guitar (at age five). I started off by taking classical guitar lessons.”
Because of his classical guitar training, Gregory said, “I was able to teach myself acoustic guitar and electric guitar.”
“I started to get into rock and metal music,” he added, when his father (Hartley) began to introduce him to heavy metal bands, “such as Black Sabbath and Guns ‘n Roses”.
“I really wanted to be in a band – and be a musician,” Gregory noted, “and singing, at the time, came naturally for me because I would just sing along to music. I started taking voice lessons last year – which has also helped me as a musician.”
Because of his classical music training, Gregory observed, he was able to learn other instruments by going on Youtube and watching teach-yourself videos how to play those other instruments.
“One day,” he related, “we were out of town, at a friend of my father’s house, and the dad had a set of electric drums. I just went over and started playing them. He gave me a basic lesson how to play them – I fell in love with drums.
“Then, a few years ago,” Gregory explained, he got a drum set of his own and he’s been able to add drums to the musical instruments he had already learned to play.
I asked Gregory whether he’s learned any other instruments, in addition to three different types of guitar and drums. He answered that he’s been also able to teach himself “a little bit of piano – some basic chords.”
He added that “I don’t really play bass, but with the guitar training I’ve had I am able to play some things on the bass as well.” (Later during our conversation Gregory noted that “I also play tuba for band class.” I asked him, tongue in cheek, whether he plays tuba on the album that he was working on – and which has been released by now. His answer was “no”.)
We talked about his album (which will be available by the time this is read) “on all the major streaming platforms” (including “iTunes, Apple Music, Spotify, Google Play, Tik Tok”, Gregory added later during our conversation).
He explained that “during this time of self-isolation I decided I would record this entire album because I’ve been writing my own songs, I have all the equipment to record – I have a mixer, I have all the instruments…I’ve watched a lot of videos, so I learned how to put out my own album.”
“So, what I did is I spent the last four weeks tracking different instruments, finishing writing some songs (that he hadn’t quite completed when I spoke with him but which, he said, will be done by May 12).
“I was able to record 11 songs,” Gregory said. “I was able to record the entire album by myself – in my basement.
“The album is called ‘Basement’ ” (for self-evident reasons). “The album is under the name ‘GMH Rocks’ because that’s my stage name that I chose years ago.”
Gregory noted though that, even though he is currently a “one-man band, I am looking for a bassist and a drummer to help me in the future.”
I asked him how he would describe the type of music on his album.
“I don’t know whether I would classify it as a certain style of music,” Gregory answered. “To me it’s a mixture of rock, indie music, and a little bit of punk, but it’s really just a chance for me to show what I can do.”
If you would like to see samples of Gregory’s music, go to
https://linktr.ee/gmhrocks
Features
From One Border to Another
By ORLY DREMAN A year ago at Chanuka/Christmas I wrote an article titled “From Darkness to Light” (from-darkness-to-light-december). I cannot believe a year has passed, yet the descriptions of what’s happening in Israel are the same: national trauma, nightmares, physical pain, people still depressed and worried, hostages being murdered in captivity. The state of the nation can be pictured as a broken heart – immersed in collective sadness. The whole country is one big monument. I have a huge Israeli flag by my front door because every few days there is a a funeral journey where everyone stands at the side of the road with flags to escort another fallen soldier on his last way to the cemetery. Girlfriends do not meet at coffeeshops. Instead we meet at these funeral journeys.
On the other hand, citizens continue to volunteer by sending food packages to soldiers and helping the tens of thousands of families whose loved ones are in the front and more.
Since a couple of weeks ago was the one year anniversary of the return of some of the hostages in the only deal to date, there are still one hundred hostages – women, men, and children – including the elderly, all still being held in Gaza. The films that Hamas releases to put pressure on citizens so that they, in turn, will put pressure on the government, show the hostages looking emaciated and pale, with black under their eyes -skinny, starved, depressed, crying and begging to be saved. They are alone in the dark, dozens of meters underground, sitting in metal cages in dark tunnels closed from both sides by metal gates, less than the height of a human and the width of a single mattress. They are not allowed to shower so they have skin diseases- inhuman conditions which they are still experiencing and which are crimes against humanity. The hostages who will return in the future will not be the same as those who were released after 55 days. For our selfish government the hostages are just a burden reminding them of their big failure on Oct. 7th 2023. If they do not sign an agreement to bring them home now, then we can all understand that, God forbid, if a massacre like the one that happened on October 7 were to happed again – on any of our borders (being surrounded by Muslim enemies), there is nobody to save us. It is hard to grasp this reality. The rehabilitation of our society cannot happen before all the hostages are returned. Seasons are passing, holidays are happening, and the winter has begun again. The families of the hostages are traveling around the world meeting kings and presidents and begging for help, but our government is hard-hearted. Bibi wants to “win” the war, keep fighting in Gaza, and forget about our hostages.
Most of the children in Israel are suffering from anxiety attacks, avoid leaving home, do not interact socially, are nervous, and do not eat or sleep well. They hear sirens, their parents are recruited to the army, they have been evacuated from their homes and moved several times – having to change schools and friends. The events of Oct 7: the murders, the kidnappings, the brutality, the length of the war, the number of soldiers and citizens killed, the wounded- all of these influence the children dramatically. At our home we were playing a game with our grandchildren. They would come up with a letter and the adults had to guess what word the child was thinking of. A granddaughter gave the letter H. After us giving up and not being able to guess the word, she said it was “Hamas.” It appears that is what children are preoccupied with. When we invite new friends, before they decide to come, they always ask if we have a shelter. (Thank God we do). Our granddaughter, 9 years old, was asked why they study Arabic at school. She replied: ”So we can understand what the terrorists are saying.” Children are afraid to walk in the house alone, they are in constant fear and return to sleeping with their parents. It is a state of chronic stress. We are a post traumatic generation. People are much less happy than in the past. Since we have several memorial days during the year when the siren is sounded and we observe a minute of silence, like on Holocaust day, Memorial day for all the soldiers killed in the wars trying to save the country, and Oct. 7th day- children don’t know whether to run to the shelter when the siren sounds or to stand still.
There is a ceasefire right now with Lebanon in the north, but the chances of it holding are 50-50. We just signed that cease fire and another front from Syria opened, because the president’s regime there was overthrown by Al Qaeda/ISIS rebels. We do not know what to expect. After a year and a quarter, we stopped hearing war planes, but now, because of Syria, we hear them again.
We are lacking 10,000 soldiers. Men in their forties who were already released from the army are getting called again. The wives of 15,000 reservists have been carrying the burden of their prolonged absences for 15 months already. They are losing income and paying a heavy price for parenting alone and not enjoying the company of a spouse. Many have become widowed. Business closing signs are all over the place. We owe them so much.
Sixty thousand citizens were evacuated from their homes in northern Israel 15 months ago. They are dispersed in 100 hotels around the country. Whole communities were dismantled and their members became refugees. People lost all their stable, familiar circles. Thousands of homes and roads were destroyed and must be rebuilt. Tourism is dead in the whole country. The government of Lebanon is a hostage in the hands of Hezbollah, which took over that country. The U.N soldiers are afraid to do anything against Hezbollah’s wishes or they will be killed. Hence they have became collaborators with the terrorists.
At the central square in Teheran, Iran there is a clock counting time backwards for the time remaining until the year 2040, the year Iran says it intends to annihilate Israel. We cannot wait passively for that year so, hopefully, with a new administration in Washington we will have the opportunity to remove the tyrant regime in Iran.
It has become “cool” to be antisemitic and anti-Israel around the world. The “herd” is following Muslim propaganda and lies and does not know the truth. Our government’s public relations campaign has failed. We have to get to those who don’t know enough.
Chanukka is approaching and our lights are the volunteers in the hospitals, in the field, nursing homes… those visiting the elderly, the lonely, the families who need help. This is what gives us comfort: the spirit of solidarity. This is what makes us a great nation – our people. The real Israeli who shares his brother’s pain. So we must be grateful for the good things in life and maintain hope.
Happy Chanukka and Merry Christmas!
Features
The Allure of Cherry Scents in Modern Fragrance Trends
Cherry-scented perfumes have become the new darling of the fragrance world. Thanks to their fruity notes and unique ability to bring out sophistication and warmth, cherry perfumes are an emerging trend in the modern world of scents.
One of the most famous perfumes of the generation is the Tom Ford Lost Cherry and the well-loved fragrance is simply unbeatable. They’re so developed, deep, and warm. For customers looking for a more affordable option, perfumes like Ambery Cherry have found a nice middle between luxury and attainability.
Why Cherry Scents Are Having a Moment
Cherry fragrances offer sophistication, freshness, and complexity. These perfumes strike a perfect balance between sweetness and adulthood, making them suitable for any occasion and mood. Cherries are a symbol of indulgence, delectability, and nostalgia. There are several fragrance users who want more than just a nice and simple scent; they’re looking for a story too.
For this reason, a lot of perfumers have gotten extra inventive with their cherry notes, including other notes that establish a unique story. Almond notes, tonka bean, smoky undertones – anything that can place wearers directly on a unique pedestal in an olfactory universe. With this newfound creativity, cherry-scented perfumes have become a genre of their own in the world of luxury perfumes.
Cherry Fragrances and the Senses
Just imagine the moment when someone with cherry fragrance sprays it on their skin. The first notes that blossom through are of tangy, sweet cherry juice. You are then transported to an orchard bathed in sunlight. That is the kind of sensory experience you get with a cherry fragrance.
They’re the right mix of elegant and playful and warm and bold. Again, the likes of Tom Ford Lost Cherry have raised the bar when it comes to making a perfect fragrance. This has, in turn, resulted in the likes of Ambery Cherry becoming easily available to the masses.
Cherry Scents as Personal Statements
Fragrances are not just some additional accessory but an extension to your personality. Cherry fragrances, with their warmth and alluring nature, allow the wearer to make some pretty unforgettable, striking statements everywhere they go. The kind of people who stop and give them a try are people who enjoy timeless elegance while remaining modern and fresh! There is something about cherry fragrances that intrigues you. You just can’t pinpoint what it is but they smell divine.
Finding the Perfect Cherry Fragrance
Given that cherry fragrances are so hot right now, you might find yourself doing a double take as you try to navigate your next move. The best way to decide is to choose one that aligns with your personal style. If your tastes run to the daring and complex, Tom Ford Lost Cherry might tickle your fancy.
If you are after a comparable experience at a more appropriate price tag, there are options like Ambery Cherry as alternatives. They make cherry perfumes accessible to everyone, no matter how deep their pockets are. This will only mean that more of us will experience and fall in love with this note.
Embrace the Cherry Trend
Cherry perfumes are for everyone but many already know this, especially now that there are affordable alternatives. For those who are regular shoppers at luxury perfume counters, don’t let this amazing scent escape your growing collection. Welcome to the beautiful world of cherry perfumes. Now that there are pocket-friendly yet luxurious editions, what is stopping you from considering them?
Features
Exploring the Technology Behind CrazyVegas’s Seamless Gameplay
With the fastest load speeds, the smoothest play, the most reliable form of security and so many more exciting extras, going with this CrazyVegas online casino really is like magic. But what’s behind all these, you ask? What are the crazy ins and outs of the system that continually delivers the fun and excitement to you, the player?
Advanced Servers for Lightning-Fast Performance
Nothing ruins an awesome gaming experience quite like lag — or bugs. Overheated servers, not enough server-pressure points, and even the choice of a hard drive over a solid-state drive because if the host is lagging, you’re lagging. And at CrazyVegas, we don’t do “lagging,” or its little brother, downtime.
Because as cool as all of the above is and more, we are focused on keeping the good times rolling with as little interruption on your desktop, tablet, or mobile and hassle-free infrastructure.
Cutting-edge Graphics Powered by HTML5
The design makes or breaks the online casino. Some even say it’s as important as games. With HTML5 used in CrazyVegas, there’s nothing to worry about. The game design and graphics look and act just about the part. All modes can be played on any size screen without a clumsy or confusing transition.
From playing that latest slot to getting into that poker final and anything in between. There’s a clear view of all the visuals and there are no visual bugs that make it painful on the eyes. All thanks to magical HTML5.
AI and Machine Learning for Personalized Experiences
Beneath the system, the AI and machine learning algorithms are creating a uniquely designed gaming world for each player. CrazyVegas uses AI to analyze players’ input and then provide real-time gameplay and promotional offers depending on this player’s preferences.
If the AI detects this player has a preference for games that require more strategy (e.g. BlackJack) then this could result in higher table games or even more game tips to help you play and win. This has made the system create an experience built for the people who play it. But decentralized at the same time.
Secure Transactions with Blockchain Integration
Security is paramount in any online casino, and CrazyVegas doesn’t disappoint. By utilizing blockchain technology, this online casino can provide an unprecedented level of security (and transparency) online — beyond anything else in the industry. With blockchain, user funds are safe and games are fairer.
Any transaction (e.g., deposit, withdrawal) is encrypted and transmitted securely, channeled onto a decentralized contract ledger that ensures your money plus data are safe from any kind of hack.
Mobile Optimization
With the days we live in now, online gaming is a form of relaxation and this casino is just as good as its competition. It is mobile-friendly, meaning a customer can play whenever, wherever!
Thanks to the design and discomfort of cookies, this online casino is for any player. It doesn’t matter if you are at home or just about anywhere, you can definitely play your favorite games on your mobile.
Fair Play with RNG Technology
One of the most important aspects of online gaming is fairness. CrazyVegas has this well covered and uses Random Number Generator (RNG) technology throughout its games to ensure that all game outcomes are entirely random.
Third-party independent testing ensures this remains the case, and our users can be certain they are all in with a fair and equal chance. And with us, the gameplay really is a play that can be trusted!
The Future of Gaming at CrazyVegas
As technologies evolve, we evolve too. CrazyVegas always follows the edge of the possible and even more, providing all the incredible tech pieces to give you more depth and more awesomeness in your gambling. Imagine walking into your VR casino, chatting with other players and a dealer in real time, or using AR to make your gambling appear right on your dinner table! All the tech pieces are endless, and we will take it all to provide the best new experiences to our players.
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