Wossname -- February 2015 -- Main issue
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Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
February 2015 (Volume 18, Issue 2, Post 2)
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WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works and activities of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
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Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Wolfiekins
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)
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INDEX:
01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
05) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
06) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS
07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
09) CLOSE
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01) MORE QUOTES OF THE MONTH
"To dad's fans – Cherish what he gave us, every book. They are marvellous gifts of laughter, wisdom and empathy. Through them he is immortal."
– Pratchett the Younger (on Twitter), who then went on to assure us that her father definitely ate'nt dead, 24th February 2015
"Good Omens, Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's wacky End-of-Days satire, tackles big, guilt-inducing issues — like religion and morality — with a fast-paced hilarity so undeniable, so straight-up campy, it'd make oddball Gorey proud."
– Caroline Goldstein on bustle.com, in an article celebrating what would have been Gorey's 90th birthday
"It wasn't really the fault of the doctors and the nurses. They healed his infection, they put food and drink beside him, almost all of them treated him with respect and genuine kindness. But they left him to himself and couldn't spend hours making sure he ate and drank. They couldn't brush his teeth and shave him and comb his hair and read poetry to him, do crosswords, play chess, talk to him, hold his hand, tell him he was safe, keep him anchored to the world he loved."
– Nicci Gerrard, Alzheimer's care activist, on the unnecessarily rapid decline of her dementia-afflicted father and the need for increased companionship and hands-on care for Alzheimer's sufferers
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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR
Bring on the Tiffany Achings, Nac Mac Feegle, and any other Discworld characters you think would be fun for your children, young siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or even young neighbours to dress up as for World Book Day! 2015's World Book Day – the twentieth anniversary of this celebration – is on 5th March. We've seen some great Discworld costumes in the past, so bring it on! For info about World Book day, go to http://worldbookday.com
In the Alzheimer's News section you will find some possibly infuriating news and some hope-giving news relating to both the present and the future. Do read Nicci Gerrard's original piece (the link is at the bottom of item 6.2). It's a heartbreaking story about how her father succumbed to the disease – "I sometimes thought of him as a great city whose lights were going out one by one, but slowly, so that you hardly noticed," Gerrard says – but her loss has led to something wonderful for dementia sufferers in many places.
And now, on with the show...
– Annie Mac, Editor
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03) ODDS AND SODS
3.1 DRAGONS AT CRUMBLING CASTLE GIVEAWAY
The website Popcorn Reads has an extensive rave review of DaCC, and is also offering a free hardcover copy of the book to "one lucky reader". Entries deadline is Saturday night, 14th of March 2015, and entrants must be at least 13 years old.
For full details of how to enter the raffle, go to http://bit.ly/1ACP5Q0 and scroll down to "Giveaway Rules".
3.2 STEELEYE SPAN 2015 TOUR UPDATES
Steeleye Span continue their triumphant tour including songs from their Wintersmith album. Some upcoming dates:
Sunday 8th March
Harlequin Theatre, Warwick Quadrant, Redhill, Surrey RH1 1NN 7.30pm (01737) 276500 Tickets £22.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1zn9SlJ
Tuesday 10th March
Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN (01793) 524 481 Tickets £22.50 (concessions £19.00), booking fee applies. Ticket Office: 01494 512 000
To buy online: https://swindontheatres.co.uk/Online/mapSelect.asp
Wednesday 11th March
Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, Essex CM20 1LS (01279) 431945 Tickets £23.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1E4Lkp6
Thursday 12th March
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing Pier, Worthing, Sussex BN11 3PX (01903) 206206 Tickets £21.50, (concessions £3 off)
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1vHECT3
Saturday 14th March
Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate Street, Stafford, ST16 2LT (01785) 619080 Tickets £20.00
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1JX5qVT
Sunday 15th March
Nottingham Playhouse, Wellington Circus, Nottingham, NG1 5AF (0115)919419 Tickets £23
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1E4LpcB (click on Buy Tickets button)
Monday 16th March
Stratford Arts House, 14 Rother Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6LUS (01789) 207100 Tickets £21.50 (Concessions over sixty & under eighteen £19.50)
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1znhNPR
Friday 20th March
Pyramid & Parr Hall, Palmyra Square South, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 1BL (01925) 442345 Tickets £21.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1N0B8Aw
Saturday 21st March
HRH Prog 3 festival, Camp HRH, Pwllheli Wales (0207)097 8872 Tickets are for the entire festival and start at £490.00, which includes accommodation for two people in two bedrooms.
To buy online: https://www.hrhprog.com/tickets/
Steeleye Span will also be playing two UK festivals in May. On Friday 15th May they will headline the Shepley Spring Festival in Shepley, West Yorkshire, and on Monday 25th May they will play the Haverfordwest Folk Rock Festival.
Tickets for the Shepley festival cost £90 for the entire weekend (youth (16-17) £45, concession £80, accompanied children up under 16 free) without camping, and slightly more with camping. Entry to the showground itself is £5 to get into the showground and activities with events starting at 3pm on the 15th. For more information, and to purchase tickets, go to http://www.shepleyspringfestival.co.uk/
Tickets for the Haverfordwest festival are: 1 Day Adult Ticket (Ref: 1ADOD25) £30, 1 Day Student Ticket (Ref: 1STOD25) £25, 1 Day Child Ticket (Ref: 1CHEV25) £15. For more information, and to book, go to www.haverfordwestfolkrockfestival.co.uk/page_3221253.html
3.3 THE REAL PERDITA?
Anna-Maria Hefele is a polyphonic overtone singer. This is a kind of throat singing, but polyphonic overtone singing is as far away from the remarkable but frankly unlovely throat singing recently beloved by music industry hipsters as Agnes' vocalising was from, well, Christine's. Here be a video of Ms Hefele showing how to sing several notes at once *and* make it sound eerily beautiful:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC9Qh709gas
3.4 REVIEW: SNUFF
By Mk on Popcorn Reads:
"On the surface of all of Terry Pratchett's novels is a lot of humor and then you start to peel the layers back to the heart, which always contains important issues. You have a choice, you can only look at the surface or you can peek underneath – how far underneath you look is up to you. It’s one of the things that makes his novels so brilliant, in the U.S. and the UK sense of the word. Most people begin reading them for one reason and then continue for another. For whatever reason you read Snuff, I guarantee it will only whet your appetite for more Discworld novels. You will love this series without a doubt, unless you're a total grump, in which case you're beyond hope anyway..."
http://bit.ly/1axGrbR
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04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
4.1 WYRD SISTERS IN TORONTO: BACK ON THE MENU!
You may remember that the Socratic Theatre Collective was forced to postpone the opening of their much anticipated production of Wyrd Sisters last October "due to a combination of several personal emergencies among the cast". Well, they survived the change of calendar and venue and are ready to rock!
"Terry Pratchett's Wyrd Sisters is the third Pratchett play to be produced by Socratic Theatre Collective; 2013's Terry Pratchett's Monstrous Regiment and 2012 Pratchett's Mort, both at the Toronto Fringe, were enthusiastically received by audiences, and sold out most of their runs... The production is directed by Socratic Theatre Artistic Director Liz Bragg, and features returning members from previous Socratic Theatre Discworld shows: Basel Daoud (Cmdr Vimes in Monstrous Regiment and Death in Mort) as Lady Felmet and others, S. R. Kriger (William de Worde in Monstrous Regiment and King Olerve in Mort) as Granny Weatherwax, and Amanda O'Halloran (Duchess of Sto Helit in Mort) as Nanny Ogg. Socratic Theatre also welcomes new cast member Daniel Cristofori (Alumni Theatre's Adrift) as Duke Felmet and others, Micha Lake (Collective Friction's Health Class), and Madryn McCabe (Two Chips The Copy). The production is stage managed by Jennifer Jakob (troll design and construction for Monstrous Regiment)... The 2014-2015 season is the fourth produced by the company."
When: 20th–29th March 2O15
Venue: Red Sandcastle Theatre, 922 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario
Time: evening shows all 8pm; Sunday matinees (22nd and 29th March) 2pm
Tickets: $20 general admission/$15 students and seniors. Box office: 416 845-9411
To purchase online, go to: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1260061
For more information, go to:
https://www.facebook.com/socratictheatre
http://www.socratictheatre.com/
4.2 REMINDER: SMALL GODS IN FOURECKS
For their next production, the wonderful and absolutely wiz(z)ardly Unseen Theatre of Adelaide will be tackling Small Gods.
* Performance Dates: May 15 to 30 (Wed. to Sat.) at 8pm
* All of the above held at: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 Angas Street, Adelaide."
For further information, email pamela@unseen.com.au or go to the website:
http://www.unseen.com.au/
4.3 REMINDER: AUDITIONS FOR WYRD SISTERS IN UPPINGHAM, RUTLAND
The Uppingham Theatre Company Wyrd Sisters will present their production of Wyrd Sisters in October (25th to 31st). But first, it's audition time for Uppingham Theatre. Director Vikki Shelton will preside over auditions and read-throughs in May.
When: 4th, 6th, 11th and 13th May 2015
Venue: Don't Paddy's, Market Place, Uppingham (upstairs front room)
Time: 7:00pm on all days
Casting will be for Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, Magrat Garlick, Verence (late king of Lancre), Felmet, Lady Felmet, Vitoller, Mrs Vitoller, the Fool, Tomjon, Hwel, Sergeant, Demon, Robbers, Players, Guests, Guards, and Peasants.
Vikki writes: "If you would like to be considered but cannot make any of the above dates please e mail us, [at] info@uppinghamtheatrecompany.org.uk We also need people to help with front of house. Please remember that this is a public page if you wish to leave any contact details please do so via our email address."
Uppingham Theatre's Facebook page is now active:
www.facebook.com/pages/Uppingham-Theatre-Company/215743641793859
4.4 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN EYNSFORD, KENT
The Riverside Players will be staging their comedy-centric production of Wyrd Sisters in May 2015.
When: 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th May 2015
Venue: Eynsford Village Hall, High Street, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0AA
Time: Friday 8th & 15th – 7.45pm; Saturday 9th & 16th – 3.00pm & 7.45pm
Tickets: Adult £11, Concessions £9 (under 16s, over 60s and students with NUS card), Family £35 (2 adults and 2 concessions). There is a Discount Code for buying advance tickets: 'ESME15' until 23rd April 2015
www.riversideplayers.co.uk
email: enquiries@riversideplayers.co.uk
telephone 07704279948
4.5 REVIEW: MONSTROUS REGIMENT IN DURHAM
By Isabelle Culkin, in the independent student newspaper Palatinate:
"With a cast numbering at twenty one people, this production could easily have been very amateur. However, the ensemble cast were very talented, and supported each other excellently. The direction of Imogen and Eddleston and Matthew Elliot-Ripley was clear and coherent throughout and clearly framed some of the production's most impressive performances The impressive costume, makeup and set design supported this, and proved that there was nothing novice about this production. The technical side of the production was also particularly impressive and inventive, and aided the production most particularly through its slick transitions and well-chosen lighting and sound... Ooook! Productions always does well to create a familial feel to their productions, and the sheer scale of this production shows its success is a collaborative process. The synergy of the cast and crew fuelled this production with the kind of spirit a Pratchett production truly deserves..."
http://www.palatinate.org.uk/?p=55890
Also, here be a well worth reading pre-run interview by Amy Price with the cast and crew. The page also features an image of Ooook! Productions' rather lovely poster for the play:
"The most exciting things about staging Pratchett novels have to be in the level of creativity needed to put together a successful show. Pratchett regularly uses complex symbolism in his characters and settings, as well as fantastical elements such as magic and fantasy creatures, and all of these elements combine to make a technically challenging and incredibly satisfying show. Staging Pratchett novels is far from easy, but the hard work put in by technical and creative crew allow them to be unique experiences in student theatre... Casting the show was challenging, and we decided to take the theme of gender seriously by having gender-blind auditions, casting the best people for the roles regardless of how their gender aligns to their characters. As a result there will be men playing women, women playing men, and everything in between on the stage! This way the audience will be constantly guessing which characters are actually female, keeping the air of mystery surrounding the genders of the Regiment..."
http://www.palatinate.org.uk/?p=55441
4.6 REVIEW: JOHNNY AND THE DEAD IN WINCHESTER
By Flavia Bateson in the Winchester Daily Echo:
"The Chesil Theatre was aptly transformed for Chesil Youth Theatre's presentation of Johnny and the Dead, based on Terry Pratchett's children's novel. The action of the play takes place just before Halloween, so skeletons, skulls and spiders decorated the theatre – even the mobile phone announcement had an eerie, haunted ring to it. Will Cohen played the hero Johnny Maxwell with energy and sensitivity... There are many typical Pratchett comedy one-liners in this entertaining piece which has the underlying message of little people being able to make a difference. The 22 members of the Chesil Youth Theatre, aged between eight and 16, took on their roles with enthusiasm..."
http://bit.ly/1DX7Pwj
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05) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
AUSDWCON UPDATES
An exciting announcement from PJSM Prints!
"Strewth! We're coming to Fourecks! Calling all fans of the Last Continent! PJSM Prints are delighted to be attending 'Nullus Anxietas V' – The Australian Discworld Convention! Our team will be at the Novotel Parramatta, Parramatta, Sydney NSW from April 10 -12, 2015. So come on down to Holy Wood to meet up with other Discworld fans, chat to our esteemed guests and have a great time.
"We'll be bringing all manner of goodies
"At the show you'll be able to buy a fabulous selection of our latest Discworld merchandise with everything from highest quality greetings cards, keyrings, stickers and clothing, to all manner of badges, mounts and prints. And take it all home in a Discworld tote or canvas bag! Death, Nac Mac Feegles and Nanny Ogg! We'll bring all your favourites. We look forward to welcoming you!
"From canvases to coasters!
"We'll be packing as many exclusive goodies as we possibly can, including beautiful canvases to light up a room, coasters to add some personality to your desk and our range of gorgeous bookmarks!
"Collect the whole set – marvellous miniatures
"We have a fabulous selection of high quality miniatures of all your favourite Discworld characters available on our website. A real hobbyists dream, each one is perfect in every detail and comes unpainted ready for you to assemble and paint yourselves."
http://www.pjsmprints.com/miniatures/index.html
To view this announcement on the web, go to http://bit.ly/1DBvVdj
Remember to keep an eye on the Nullus Anxietas website for updates:
http://ausdwcon.org
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06) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS
6.1 TAKING ADVANTAGE OF PTERRY... OR NOT
A summing-up of the recent eBay kerfuffle, on Metro UK:
"[An] advert on eBay has caused something of a stir after the seller was accused of taking advantage of Terry Pratchett's Alzheimer's disease. User virtualparnassus suggested that once Pratchett stops writing and dies, the monetary value of the book will double. How sensitive. After several people approached him, including Pratchett’s daughter Rhiannon[sic], he ended the auction for the item. Before removing the item from sale he said: 'Fans and collectors know that Terry is tragically affected by PCA – a rare, early onset type of Alzheimer's. When he stops writing and ends his life this book will easily sell for twice what I am asking.' He went on to talk about other health problems the 66-year-old has been suffering from and warned the price of the book could be higher than the $1,250 (£813) he wanted. 'I do not plan to lower this price. Terry Pratchett, an author I love unreservedly, will end his life when his Alzheimer's reaches a pre-decided level,' he notes. 'I do not need to sell this and the other valuable, Pratchett books I am offering. Some of these books are duplicates I own. They will only appreciate in value.' Twitter users were not happy..."
In the end, the reactions of angry fans caused virtualparnassus to withdraw the listing, along with those of several other books.
http://bit.ly/1MMKJuQ
6.2 CARING ABOUT ALZHEIMER'S
In The Observer, a report by Yvonne Roberts on a growing carers movement that began with a newspaper column:
"Major triumphs often come from small and modest first steps and a cry from the heart. In November, barely eight weeks ago, Nicci Gerrard wrote about her father, a former GP and businessman, John Gerrard. He had suffered from dementia for several years since his mid-70s, before entering hospital in February 2014, aged 86, with leg ulcers. He was admitted, the author and journalist wrote, 'strong, mobile, healthy, continent, reasonably articulate and cheerful'. Five weeks later, after an outbreak of norovirus meant his family could see him only infrequently, he emerged 'skeletal, incontinent, immobile, incoherent, lost'... The article announced the launch of a drive to allow carers to remain with a loved one on wards outside of visiting hours. 'John's Campaign', as it is called, has the slogan 'Stay with Me'. Gerrard and her friend, Julia Jones, whose mother has Alzheimer's disease, wanted not just a carer's right to remain with a relative with dementia but also large posters on the door of every hospital ward, welcoming carers and their contribution... almost half of the people with dementia who go into hospital are less well when they leave than when they were admitted. Over a quarter of hospital beds in the UK are occupied by people with dementia... At Imperial College Healthcare NHS trust the culture is changing rapidly. Staff receive dementia training; tea parties for dementia patients and nursing staff are held in public places; a weekly carers’ clinic offers a drop-in session for relatives, friends and staff...
"At the civic level, Leeds was one of the first five cities to sign up to Cameron’s dementia challenge. Twenty per cent of the population there is over 65. Mick Ward, head of commissioning for adult social services, supported by Andrew Ogilvie, executive member for adult social care, has set up a Dementia Action Alliance, as have other towns and cities. It has gathered pace in the past 12 months. 'Living well with dementia means more than signs and stickers and a memory clinic,' Ward says. 'People ought to feel safe in their own communities and to be seen as having assets and interests, not just a diagnosis.'...
"The small, magical innovations are coming faster by the week. A car hire firm has two extra addresses for registered dementia sufferers, so if the destination is forgotten there is another place of safety. A hairdresser offers a spare chair and a cup of tea, so that having dementia and a hairdo becomes a normal part of everyday service..."
http://bit.ly/179XRcl
Related links:
http://www.johnscampaign.org.uk/howyoucanhelp.html
http://bit.ly/11OBUxf (Nicci Gerard's original piece)
http://bit.ly/1tfvbsS ("Dementia need not be a death sentence", Ms Gerard's follow-up article)
http://bit.ly/1LOBzL7 (Leeds Dementia Action Alliance)
6.3 MOLECULE THAT DELAYS ONSET OF ALZHEIMER'S FOUND
"The study in mice showed that the 'housekeeping' molecule put the brakes on a runaway process in the brain that leads to the most common form of dementia. The substance works by slowing the accumulation of sticky clumps of protein in the brain, which typically appear years before symptoms such as memory loss become apparent in patients. Although the molecule tested would be difficult to convert into a drug for use in humans, the scientists said, the findings prove that the cycle that leads to Alzheimer's devastating impact on memory and personality can be interrupted. Samuel Cohen, who led the study at the University of Cambridge, said:'The big advantage is that we haven't just come up with a drug and not really understood what it is doing. We've come up with a general strategy that could work.'
"The latest study, published on Monday in the journal Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, showed that a human molecule, called Brichos, sticks to the amyloid fibrils and, by coating their exterior, stops them from accelerating the formation of more clumps. 'It doesn't stop the initial formation, but it stops it becoming a chain reaction,' said Cohen... Brichos is unlikely to be suitable as a drug because it would be absorbed by the body before having the chance to work in the brain. 'A good tactic now is to search for other molecules that have this same highly targeted effect and to see if these can be used as the starting point for developing a future therapy,' said Cohen..."
http://bit.ly/17jtPD6
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07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets on the first Monday of every month at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London W2 1JQ: "We welcome anyone and everyone who enjoys Sir Terry's works, or quite likes them or wants to find out more. We have had many visitors from overseas who have enjoyed themselves and made new friends. The discussions do not only concern the works of Sir Terry Pratchett but wander and meander through other genres and authors and also leaping to TV and Film production. We also find time for a quiz. The prize is superb. The chance to set the quiz the following month. If you enter via the beer garden, you will find us at the opposite end of the pub. If you have any problems, the staff can direct you."
Next meeting: Monday 2nd March 2015
The Drummers' February meet report:
"It was a cold winter's night but around nine of us made it to the Monkey Puzzle nevertheless. I arrived to find that my husband had bought a patterned bobble hat with ear flaps and plaited cords. He insists that it is a good hat.
Eunice did her first quiz. It was on Discworld love interests. I won and was faced with the problem that the prize, an R2D2 Pez dispenser complete with sweets, already belonged to me and I did not want to take it home. Since Andrew was in second place I gave the prize to Sim as she seemed to want it very badly. She declared that she would take it to work and use it to dispense treats to people who have been good. We marvelled at her Pavlovian management skills. Eunice and Sim discussed a gig they had both been to. I only tuned into that conversation when I heard Sim say that she was, 'yelling obscenities in Australian!' She also said something about it being, 'piratey, punny fun.' Andrew wore his new hat back to the station. He insisted that a hat says a lot about a person's character. Eunice looked at him appraisingly and observed that this was certainly true."
For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Pratchett Partisans are a new fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett". Forthcoming events include a discussion of "The Foode and Drinke of Discworld" on Saturday, 14th March at 2pm. For more info about their next meetup, go to www.meetup.com/Pratchett-Partisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au
*
The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia: "We have regular monthly dinner and games nights, longer games days, plus play outings, craft-y workshops, and fun social activities throughout the year. For more info and to join our mailing list, visit http://cityofsmallgods.org.au "
*
The Broken Vectis Drummers meet on the first Thursday of every month from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight.
Next meeting: Thursday 5th March 2015, probably, but do email to check.
All new members and curious passersby are very welcome! For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) meets on the first Friday of every month at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"
Next meeting: Friday 6th March 2015 (probably).
*
The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles.
Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:
http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/
*
Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet on the first Monday of every month in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000.
Next meeting: Monday 2nd March 2015 at 6.30pm (probably). For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meet on the first Monday of the month (subject to holidays) at the child-friendly Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia.
Next meeting: from 5.30pm on Monday 2nd March 2015 (probably).
For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – otherwise message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>
*
Western Drummers, also based in Sydney, meet at The Rowers, Nepean Rowing Club, Bruce Neal Drive, Penrith at 6.30-7.30pm for food, 7.30pm for games, quizzes and chat: "If you have never been, please come on down. You would be very welcome. We eat, have a drink, talk Discworld and play board games. Starts kind of 6 – 6.30ish and finishes kind of 9pm ish."
Next meeting: as there was a meeting on Tuesday, 17th February, the next will probably be in mid-March. For more information, contact Nanny Ogg – lewis_oz@bigpond.com – or visit their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/westerndrummers
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08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
How to illustrate a Discworld quote, by E Orange and Kim White:
http://bit.ly/1DuXoxa
Here be a photo of a "Cantiniere", taken by Roger Fenton in 1855. It puts me in mind of the sort of uniform Polly Perks might well approve of:
http://bit.ly/182sH7c
...and finally, a beautiful casual portrait photo of Sir Pterry, which accompanied the article about the eBay kerfuffle (item 6.1):
https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/terry-pratchett.jpg
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09) CLOSE
And that's the lot for now. Wossname wishes all the relevant Roundworld "Agatean" cultures a very happy Year of the Goat (also known as Year of the Sheep, possibly more appropriate in a certain young witch's steading). We'll see you next month!
– Annie Mac
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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info
———————————————————————————————————
Copyright (c) 2015 by Klatchian Foreign Legion
Newsletter of the Klatchian Foreign Legion
February 2015 (Volume 18, Issue 2, Post 2)
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WOSSNAME is a free publication offering news, reviews, and all the other stuff-that-fits pertaining to the works and activities of Sir Terry Pratchett. Originally founded by the late, great Joe Schaumburger for members of the worldwide Klatchian Foreign Legion and its affiliates, including the North American Discworld Society and other continental groups, Wossname is now for Discworld and Pratchett fans everywhere in Roundworld.
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Editor in Chief: Annie Mac
News Editor: Vera P
Newshounds: Mogg, Sir J of Croydon Below, the Shadow, Wolfiekins
Staff Writers: Asti, Pitt the Elder, Evil Steven Dread, Mrs Wynn-Jones
Staff Technomancers: Jason Parlevliet, Archchancellor Neil, DJ Helpful
Book Reviews: Annie Mac, Drusilla D'Afanguin, Your Name Here
Puzzle Editor: Tiff (still out there somewhere)
Bard in Residence: Weird Alice Lancrevic
Emergency Staff: Steven D'Aprano, Jason Parlevliet
World Membership Director: Steven D'Aprano (in his copious spare time)
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INDEX:
01) QUOTES OF THE MONTH
02) EDITOR'S LETTER
03) ODDS AND SODS
04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
05) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
06) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS
07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
09) CLOSE
oooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo
01) MORE QUOTES OF THE MONTH
"To dad's fans – Cherish what he gave us, every book. They are marvellous gifts of laughter, wisdom and empathy. Through them he is immortal."
– Pratchett the Younger (on Twitter), who then went on to assure us that her father definitely ate'nt dead, 24th February 2015
"Good Omens, Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman's wacky End-of-Days satire, tackles big, guilt-inducing issues — like religion and morality — with a fast-paced hilarity so undeniable, so straight-up campy, it'd make oddball Gorey proud."
– Caroline Goldstein on bustle.com, in an article celebrating what would have been Gorey's 90th birthday
"It wasn't really the fault of the doctors and the nurses. They healed his infection, they put food and drink beside him, almost all of them treated him with respect and genuine kindness. But they left him to himself and couldn't spend hours making sure he ate and drank. They couldn't brush his teeth and shave him and comb his hair and read poetry to him, do crosswords, play chess, talk to him, hold his hand, tell him he was safe, keep him anchored to the world he loved."
– Nicci Gerrard, Alzheimer's care activist, on the unnecessarily rapid decline of her dementia-afflicted father and the need for increased companionship and hands-on care for Alzheimer's sufferers
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02) LETTER FROM YOUR EDITOR
Bring on the Tiffany Achings, Nac Mac Feegle, and any other Discworld characters you think would be fun for your children, young siblings, nieces, nephews, grandchildren or even young neighbours to dress up as for World Book Day! 2015's World Book Day – the twentieth anniversary of this celebration – is on 5th March. We've seen some great Discworld costumes in the past, so bring it on! For info about World Book day, go to http://worldbookday.com
In the Alzheimer's News section you will find some possibly infuriating news and some hope-giving news relating to both the present and the future. Do read Nicci Gerrard's original piece (the link is at the bottom of item 6.2). It's a heartbreaking story about how her father succumbed to the disease – "I sometimes thought of him as a great city whose lights were going out one by one, but slowly, so that you hardly noticed," Gerrard says – but her loss has led to something wonderful for dementia sufferers in many places.
And now, on with the show...
– Annie Mac, Editor
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03) ODDS AND SODS
3.1 DRAGONS AT CRUMBLING CASTLE GIVEAWAY
The website Popcorn Reads has an extensive rave review of DaCC, and is also offering a free hardcover copy of the book to "one lucky reader". Entries deadline is Saturday night, 14th of March 2015, and entrants must be at least 13 years old.
For full details of how to enter the raffle, go to http://bit.ly/1ACP5Q0 and scroll down to "Giveaway Rules".
3.2 STEELEYE SPAN 2015 TOUR UPDATES
Steeleye Span continue their triumphant tour including songs from their Wintersmith album. Some upcoming dates:
Sunday 8th March
Harlequin Theatre, Warwick Quadrant, Redhill, Surrey RH1 1NN 7.30pm (01737) 276500 Tickets £22.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1zn9SlJ
Tuesday 10th March
Wyvern Theatre, Theatre Square, Swindon, Wiltshire SN1 1QN (01793) 524 481 Tickets £22.50 (concessions £19.00), booking fee applies. Ticket Office: 01494 512 000
To buy online: https://swindontheatres.co.uk/Online/mapSelect.asp
Wednesday 11th March
Harlow Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Harlow, Essex CM20 1LS (01279) 431945 Tickets £23.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1E4Lkp6
Thursday 12th March
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing Pier, Worthing, Sussex BN11 3PX (01903) 206206 Tickets £21.50, (concessions £3 off)
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1vHECT3
Saturday 14th March
Gatehouse Theatre, Eastgate Street, Stafford, ST16 2LT (01785) 619080 Tickets £20.00
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1JX5qVT
Sunday 15th March
Nottingham Playhouse, Wellington Circus, Nottingham, NG1 5AF (0115)919419 Tickets £23
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1E4LpcB (click on Buy Tickets button)
Monday 16th March
Stratford Arts House, 14 Rother Street, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire CV37 6LUS (01789) 207100 Tickets £21.50 (Concessions over sixty & under eighteen £19.50)
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1znhNPR
Friday 20th March
Pyramid & Parr Hall, Palmyra Square South, Warrington, Cheshire WA1 1BL (01925) 442345 Tickets £21.50
To buy online: http://bit.ly/1N0B8Aw
Saturday 21st March
HRH Prog 3 festival, Camp HRH, Pwllheli Wales (0207)097 8872 Tickets are for the entire festival and start at £490.00, which includes accommodation for two people in two bedrooms.
To buy online: https://www.hrhprog.com/tickets/
Steeleye Span will also be playing two UK festivals in May. On Friday 15th May they will headline the Shepley Spring Festival in Shepley, West Yorkshire, and on Monday 25th May they will play the Haverfordwest Folk Rock Festival.
Tickets for the Shepley festival cost £90 for the entire weekend (youth (16-17) £45, concession £80, accompanied children up under 16 free) without camping, and slightly more with camping. Entry to the showground itself is £5 to get into the showground and activities with events starting at 3pm on the 15th. For more information, and to purchase tickets, go to http://www.shepleyspringfestival.co.uk/
Tickets for the Haverfordwest festival are: 1 Day Adult Ticket (Ref: 1ADOD25) £30, 1 Day Student Ticket (Ref: 1STOD25) £25, 1 Day Child Ticket (Ref: 1CHEV25) £15. For more information, and to book, go to www.haverfordwestfolkrockfestival.co.uk/page_3221253.html
3.3 THE REAL PERDITA?
Anna-Maria Hefele is a polyphonic overtone singer. This is a kind of throat singing, but polyphonic overtone singing is as far away from the remarkable but frankly unlovely throat singing recently beloved by music industry hipsters as Agnes' vocalising was from, well, Christine's. Here be a video of Ms Hefele showing how to sing several notes at once *and* make it sound eerily beautiful:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC9Qh709gas
3.4 REVIEW: SNUFF
By Mk on Popcorn Reads:
"On the surface of all of Terry Pratchett's novels is a lot of humor and then you start to peel the layers back to the heart, which always contains important issues. You have a choice, you can only look at the surface or you can peek underneath – how far underneath you look is up to you. It’s one of the things that makes his novels so brilliant, in the U.S. and the UK sense of the word. Most people begin reading them for one reason and then continue for another. For whatever reason you read Snuff, I guarantee it will only whet your appetite for more Discworld novels. You will love this series without a doubt, unless you're a total grump, in which case you're beyond hope anyway..."
http://bit.ly/1axGrbR
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04) DISCWORLD PLAYS NEWS
4.1 WYRD SISTERS IN TORONTO: BACK ON THE MENU!
You may remember that the Socratic Theatre Collective was forced to postpone the opening of their much anticipated production of Wyrd Sisters last October "due to a combination of several personal emergencies among the cast". Well, they survived the change of calendar and venue and are ready to rock!
"Terry Pratchett's Wyrd Sisters is the third Pratchett play to be produced by Socratic Theatre Collective; 2013's Terry Pratchett's Monstrous Regiment and 2012 Pratchett's Mort, both at the Toronto Fringe, were enthusiastically received by audiences, and sold out most of their runs... The production is directed by Socratic Theatre Artistic Director Liz Bragg, and features returning members from previous Socratic Theatre Discworld shows: Basel Daoud (Cmdr Vimes in Monstrous Regiment and Death in Mort) as Lady Felmet and others, S. R. Kriger (William de Worde in Monstrous Regiment and King Olerve in Mort) as Granny Weatherwax, and Amanda O'Halloran (Duchess of Sto Helit in Mort) as Nanny Ogg. Socratic Theatre also welcomes new cast member Daniel Cristofori (Alumni Theatre's Adrift) as Duke Felmet and others, Micha Lake (Collective Friction's Health Class), and Madryn McCabe (Two Chips The Copy). The production is stage managed by Jennifer Jakob (troll design and construction for Monstrous Regiment)... The 2014-2015 season is the fourth produced by the company."
When: 20th–29th March 2O15
Venue: Red Sandcastle Theatre, 922 Queen Street East, Toronto, Ontario
Time: evening shows all 8pm; Sunday matinees (22nd and 29th March) 2pm
Tickets: $20 general admission/$15 students and seniors. Box office: 416 845-9411
To purchase online, go to: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/1260061
For more information, go to:
https://www.facebook.com/socratictheatre
http://www.socratictheatre.com/
4.2 REMINDER: SMALL GODS IN FOURECKS
For their next production, the wonderful and absolutely wiz(z)ardly Unseen Theatre of Adelaide will be tackling Small Gods.
* Performance Dates: May 15 to 30 (Wed. to Sat.) at 8pm
* All of the above held at: Bakehouse Theatre, 255 Angas Street, Adelaide."
For further information, email pamela@unseen.com.au or go to the website:
http://www.unseen.com.au/
4.3 REMINDER: AUDITIONS FOR WYRD SISTERS IN UPPINGHAM, RUTLAND
The Uppingham Theatre Company Wyrd Sisters will present their production of Wyrd Sisters in October (25th to 31st). But first, it's audition time for Uppingham Theatre. Director Vikki Shelton will preside over auditions and read-throughs in May.
When: 4th, 6th, 11th and 13th May 2015
Venue: Don't Paddy's, Market Place, Uppingham (upstairs front room)
Time: 7:00pm on all days
Casting will be for Granny Weatherwax, Nanny Ogg, Magrat Garlick, Verence (late king of Lancre), Felmet, Lady Felmet, Vitoller, Mrs Vitoller, the Fool, Tomjon, Hwel, Sergeant, Demon, Robbers, Players, Guests, Guards, and Peasants.
Vikki writes: "If you would like to be considered but cannot make any of the above dates please e mail us, [at] info@uppinghamtheatrecompany.org.uk We also need people to help with front of house. Please remember that this is a public page if you wish to leave any contact details please do so via our email address."
Uppingham Theatre's Facebook page is now active:
www.facebook.com/pages/Uppingham-Theatre-Company/215743641793859
4.4 REMINDER: WYRD SISTERS IN EYNSFORD, KENT
The Riverside Players will be staging their comedy-centric production of Wyrd Sisters in May 2015.
When: 8th, 9th, 15th & 16th May 2015
Venue: Eynsford Village Hall, High Street, Eynsford, Kent DA4 0AA
Time: Friday 8th & 15th – 7.45pm; Saturday 9th & 16th – 3.00pm & 7.45pm
Tickets: Adult £11, Concessions £9 (under 16s, over 60s and students with NUS card), Family £35 (2 adults and 2 concessions). There is a Discount Code for buying advance tickets: 'ESME15' until 23rd April 2015
www.riversideplayers.co.uk
email: enquiries@riversideplayers.co.uk
telephone 07704279948
4.5 REVIEW: MONSTROUS REGIMENT IN DURHAM
By Isabelle Culkin, in the independent student newspaper Palatinate:
"With a cast numbering at twenty one people, this production could easily have been very amateur. However, the ensemble cast were very talented, and supported each other excellently. The direction of Imogen and Eddleston and Matthew Elliot-Ripley was clear and coherent throughout and clearly framed some of the production's most impressive performances The impressive costume, makeup and set design supported this, and proved that there was nothing novice about this production. The technical side of the production was also particularly impressive and inventive, and aided the production most particularly through its slick transitions and well-chosen lighting and sound... Ooook! Productions always does well to create a familial feel to their productions, and the sheer scale of this production shows its success is a collaborative process. The synergy of the cast and crew fuelled this production with the kind of spirit a Pratchett production truly deserves..."
http://www.palatinate.org.uk/?p=55890
Also, here be a well worth reading pre-run interview by Amy Price with the cast and crew. The page also features an image of Ooook! Productions' rather lovely poster for the play:
"The most exciting things about staging Pratchett novels have to be in the level of creativity needed to put together a successful show. Pratchett regularly uses complex symbolism in his characters and settings, as well as fantastical elements such as magic and fantasy creatures, and all of these elements combine to make a technically challenging and incredibly satisfying show. Staging Pratchett novels is far from easy, but the hard work put in by technical and creative crew allow them to be unique experiences in student theatre... Casting the show was challenging, and we decided to take the theme of gender seriously by having gender-blind auditions, casting the best people for the roles regardless of how their gender aligns to their characters. As a result there will be men playing women, women playing men, and everything in between on the stage! This way the audience will be constantly guessing which characters are actually female, keeping the air of mystery surrounding the genders of the Regiment..."
http://www.palatinate.org.uk/?p=55441
4.6 REVIEW: JOHNNY AND THE DEAD IN WINCHESTER
By Flavia Bateson in the Winchester Daily Echo:
"The Chesil Theatre was aptly transformed for Chesil Youth Theatre's presentation of Johnny and the Dead, based on Terry Pratchett's children's novel. The action of the play takes place just before Halloween, so skeletons, skulls and spiders decorated the theatre – even the mobile phone announcement had an eerie, haunted ring to it. Will Cohen played the hero Johnny Maxwell with energy and sensitivity... There are many typical Pratchett comedy one-liners in this entertaining piece which has the underlying message of little people being able to make a difference. The 22 members of the Chesil Youth Theatre, aged between eight and 16, took on their roles with enthusiasm..."
http://bit.ly/1DX7Pwj
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05) DISCWORLD CONVENTION NEWS
AUSDWCON UPDATES
An exciting announcement from PJSM Prints!
"Strewth! We're coming to Fourecks! Calling all fans of the Last Continent! PJSM Prints are delighted to be attending 'Nullus Anxietas V' – The Australian Discworld Convention! Our team will be at the Novotel Parramatta, Parramatta, Sydney NSW from April 10 -12, 2015. So come on down to Holy Wood to meet up with other Discworld fans, chat to our esteemed guests and have a great time.
"We'll be bringing all manner of goodies
"At the show you'll be able to buy a fabulous selection of our latest Discworld merchandise with everything from highest quality greetings cards, keyrings, stickers and clothing, to all manner of badges, mounts and prints. And take it all home in a Discworld tote or canvas bag! Death, Nac Mac Feegles and Nanny Ogg! We'll bring all your favourites. We look forward to welcoming you!
"From canvases to coasters!
"We'll be packing as many exclusive goodies as we possibly can, including beautiful canvases to light up a room, coasters to add some personality to your desk and our range of gorgeous bookmarks!
"Collect the whole set – marvellous miniatures
"We have a fabulous selection of high quality miniatures of all your favourite Discworld characters available on our website. A real hobbyists dream, each one is perfect in every detail and comes unpainted ready for you to assemble and paint yourselves."
http://www.pjsmprints.com/miniatures/index.html
To view this announcement on the web, go to http://bit.ly/1DBvVdj
Remember to keep an eye on the Nullus Anxietas website for updates:
http://ausdwcon.org
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06) ALZHEIMER'S NEWS
6.1 TAKING ADVANTAGE OF PTERRY... OR NOT
A summing-up of the recent eBay kerfuffle, on Metro UK:
"[An] advert on eBay has caused something of a stir after the seller was accused of taking advantage of Terry Pratchett's Alzheimer's disease. User virtualparnassus suggested that once Pratchett stops writing and dies, the monetary value of the book will double. How sensitive. After several people approached him, including Pratchett’s daughter Rhiannon[sic], he ended the auction for the item. Before removing the item from sale he said: 'Fans and collectors know that Terry is tragically affected by PCA – a rare, early onset type of Alzheimer's. When he stops writing and ends his life this book will easily sell for twice what I am asking.' He went on to talk about other health problems the 66-year-old has been suffering from and warned the price of the book could be higher than the $1,250 (£813) he wanted. 'I do not plan to lower this price. Terry Pratchett, an author I love unreservedly, will end his life when his Alzheimer's reaches a pre-decided level,' he notes. 'I do not need to sell this and the other valuable, Pratchett books I am offering. Some of these books are duplicates I own. They will only appreciate in value.' Twitter users were not happy..."
In the end, the reactions of angry fans caused virtualparnassus to withdraw the listing, along with those of several other books.
http://bit.ly/1MMKJuQ
6.2 CARING ABOUT ALZHEIMER'S
In The Observer, a report by Yvonne Roberts on a growing carers movement that began with a newspaper column:
"Major triumphs often come from small and modest first steps and a cry from the heart. In November, barely eight weeks ago, Nicci Gerrard wrote about her father, a former GP and businessman, John Gerrard. He had suffered from dementia for several years since his mid-70s, before entering hospital in February 2014, aged 86, with leg ulcers. He was admitted, the author and journalist wrote, 'strong, mobile, healthy, continent, reasonably articulate and cheerful'. Five weeks later, after an outbreak of norovirus meant his family could see him only infrequently, he emerged 'skeletal, incontinent, immobile, incoherent, lost'... The article announced the launch of a drive to allow carers to remain with a loved one on wards outside of visiting hours. 'John's Campaign', as it is called, has the slogan 'Stay with Me'. Gerrard and her friend, Julia Jones, whose mother has Alzheimer's disease, wanted not just a carer's right to remain with a relative with dementia but also large posters on the door of every hospital ward, welcoming carers and their contribution... almost half of the people with dementia who go into hospital are less well when they leave than when they were admitted. Over a quarter of hospital beds in the UK are occupied by people with dementia... At Imperial College Healthcare NHS trust the culture is changing rapidly. Staff receive dementia training; tea parties for dementia patients and nursing staff are held in public places; a weekly carers’ clinic offers a drop-in session for relatives, friends and staff...
"At the civic level, Leeds was one of the first five cities to sign up to Cameron’s dementia challenge. Twenty per cent of the population there is over 65. Mick Ward, head of commissioning for adult social services, supported by Andrew Ogilvie, executive member for adult social care, has set up a Dementia Action Alliance, as have other towns and cities. It has gathered pace in the past 12 months. 'Living well with dementia means more than signs and stickers and a memory clinic,' Ward says. 'People ought to feel safe in their own communities and to be seen as having assets and interests, not just a diagnosis.'...
"The small, magical innovations are coming faster by the week. A car hire firm has two extra addresses for registered dementia sufferers, so if the destination is forgotten there is another place of safety. A hairdresser offers a spare chair and a cup of tea, so that having dementia and a hairdo becomes a normal part of everyday service..."
http://bit.ly/179XRcl
Related links:
http://www.johnscampaign.org.uk/howyoucanhelp.html
http://bit.ly/11OBUxf (Nicci Gerard's original piece)
http://bit.ly/1tfvbsS ("Dementia need not be a death sentence", Ms Gerard's follow-up article)
http://bit.ly/1LOBzL7 (Leeds Dementia Action Alliance)
6.3 MOLECULE THAT DELAYS ONSET OF ALZHEIMER'S FOUND
"The study in mice showed that the 'housekeeping' molecule put the brakes on a runaway process in the brain that leads to the most common form of dementia. The substance works by slowing the accumulation of sticky clumps of protein in the brain, which typically appear years before symptoms such as memory loss become apparent in patients. Although the molecule tested would be difficult to convert into a drug for use in humans, the scientists said, the findings prove that the cycle that leads to Alzheimer's devastating impact on memory and personality can be interrupted. Samuel Cohen, who led the study at the University of Cambridge, said:'The big advantage is that we haven't just come up with a drug and not really understood what it is doing. We've come up with a general strategy that could work.'
"The latest study, published on Monday in the journal Nature Structural & Molecular Biology, showed that a human molecule, called Brichos, sticks to the amyloid fibrils and, by coating their exterior, stops them from accelerating the formation of more clumps. 'It doesn't stop the initial formation, but it stops it becoming a chain reaction,' said Cohen... Brichos is unlikely to be suitable as a drug because it would be absorbed by the body before having the chance to work in the brain. 'A good tactic now is to search for other molecules that have this same highly targeted effect and to see if these can be used as the starting point for developing a future therapy,' said Cohen..."
http://bit.ly/17jtPD6
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07) DISCWORLD MEETING GROUPS NEWS
The Broken Drummers, "London's Premier Unofficially Official Discworld Group" (motto "Nil percussio est"), meets on the first Monday of every month at the Monkey Puzzle, 30 Southwick Street, London W2 1JQ: "We welcome anyone and everyone who enjoys Sir Terry's works, or quite likes them or wants to find out more. We have had many visitors from overseas who have enjoyed themselves and made new friends. The discussions do not only concern the works of Sir Terry Pratchett but wander and meander through other genres and authors and also leaping to TV and Film production. We also find time for a quiz. The prize is superb. The chance to set the quiz the following month. If you enter via the beer garden, you will find us at the opposite end of the pub. If you have any problems, the staff can direct you."
Next meeting: Monday 2nd March 2015
The Drummers' February meet report:
"It was a cold winter's night but around nine of us made it to the Monkey Puzzle nevertheless. I arrived to find that my husband had bought a patterned bobble hat with ear flaps and plaited cords. He insists that it is a good hat.
Eunice did her first quiz. It was on Discworld love interests. I won and was faced with the problem that the prize, an R2D2 Pez dispenser complete with sweets, already belonged to me and I did not want to take it home. Since Andrew was in second place I gave the prize to Sim as she seemed to want it very badly. She declared that she would take it to work and use it to dispense treats to people who have been good. We marvelled at her Pavlovian management skills. Eunice and Sim discussed a gig they had both been to. I only tuned into that conversation when I heard Sim say that she was, 'yelling obscenities in Australian!' She also said something about it being, 'piratey, punny fun.' Andrew wore his new hat back to the station. He insisted that a hat says a lot about a person's character. Eunice looked at him appraisingly and observed that this was certainly true."
For more information, go to http://brokendrummers.org/ or email BrokenDrummers@gmail.com or nicholls.helen@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Pratchett Partisans are a new fan group who meet monthly at either Brisbane or Indooroopilly to "eat, drink and chat about all things Pratchett". Forthcoming events include a discussion of "The Foode and Drinke of Discworld" on Saturday, 14th March at 2pm. For more info about their next meetup, go to www.meetup.com/Pratchett-Partisans/ or contact Ula directly at uwilmott@yahoo.com.au
*
The City of Small Gods is a group for fans in Adelaide and South Australia: "We have regular monthly dinner and games nights, longer games days, plus play outings, craft-y workshops, and fun social activities throughout the year. For more info and to join our mailing list, visit http://cityofsmallgods.org.au "
*
The Broken Vectis Drummers meet on the first Thursday of every month from 7.30pm at The Castle pub in Newport, Isle of Wight.
Next meeting: Thursday 5th March 2015, probably, but do email to check.
All new members and curious passersby are very welcome! For more info and any queries, contact broken_vectis_drummers@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Wincanton Omnian Temperance Society (WOTS) meets on the first Friday of every month at Wincanton's famous Bear Inn from 7pm onwards. "Visitors and drop-ins are always welcome!"
Next meeting: Friday 6th March 2015 (probably).
*
The Northern Institute of the Ankh-Morpork and District Society of Flatalists, a Pratchett fangroup, has been meeting on a regular basis since 2005 but is now looking to take in some new blood (presumably not in the non-reformed Uberwald manner). The Flatalists normally meet at The Narrowboat Pub in Victoria Street, Skipton, North Yorkshire, to discuss "all things Pratchett" as well as having quizzes and raffles.
Details of future meetings are posted on the Events section of the Discworld Stamps forum:
http://www.discworldstamps.co.uk/forum/
*
Sydney Drummers (formerly Drummers Downunder) meet on the first Monday of every month in Sydney at 3 Wise Monkeys, 555 George Street, Sydney,2000.
Next meeting: Monday 2nd March 2015 at 6.30pm (probably). For more information, contact Sue (aka Granny Weatherwax): kenworthys@yahoo.co.uk
*
The Treacle Mining Corporation, formerly known as Perth Drummers, meet on the first Monday of the month (subject to holidays) at the child-friendly Carpe Cafe, 526 Murray Street, Perth, Western Australia.
Next meeting: from 5.30pm on Monday 2nd March 2015 (probably).
For details follow Perth Drummers on Twitter @Perth_Drummers and Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/Perth.Drummers/ – otherwise message Alexandra Ware directly at <alexandra.ware@gmail.com>
*
Western Drummers, also based in Sydney, meet at The Rowers, Nepean Rowing Club, Bruce Neal Drive, Penrith at 6.30-7.30pm for food, 7.30pm for games, quizzes and chat: "If you have never been, please come on down. You would be very welcome. We eat, have a drink, talk Discworld and play board games. Starts kind of 6 – 6.30ish and finishes kind of 9pm ish."
Next meeting: as there was a meeting on Tuesday, 17th February, the next will probably be in mid-March. For more information, contact Nanny Ogg – lewis_oz@bigpond.com – or visit their Facebook page:
https://www.facebook.com/westerndrummers
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08) IMAGES OF THE MONTH
How to illustrate a Discworld quote, by E Orange and Kim White:
http://bit.ly/1DuXoxa
Here be a photo of a "Cantiniere", taken by Roger Fenton in 1855. It puts me in mind of the sort of uniform Polly Perks might well approve of:
http://bit.ly/182sH7c
...and finally, a beautiful casual portrait photo of Sir Pterry, which accompanied the article about the eBay kerfuffle (item 6.1):
https://metrouk2.files.wordpress.com/2015/02/terry-pratchett.jpg
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09) CLOSE
And that's the lot for now. Wossname wishes all the relevant Roundworld "Agatean" cultures a very happy Year of the Goat (also known as Year of the Sheep, possibly more appropriate in a certain young witch's steading). We'll see you next month!
– Annie Mac
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The End. If you have any questions or requests, write: wossname-owner (at) pearwood (dot) info
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Copyright (c) 2015 by Klatchian Foreign Legion
