Latest news with #JohnSteinbeck
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- The Advertiser
Coastlines, culture and literary legend - all in one great American road trip
I once drove the entire length of Route 66 for the love of John Steinbeck. As a teen, I'd succumbed to the hypnotism of America's Mother Road while reading his masterpiece, The Grapes of Wrath. In my mind's eye, that highway unspooled seamlessly from Chicago to Santa Monica, 3940 kilometres away. Decades later, I discovered that it was, in fact, a crumbling pastiche of bitumen now terminating here, now magically recommencing beyond the freeway's underpass over there. As Steinbeck did with his wretched characters, I managed somehow to stitch the ragged remnants into an unabridged story.
Epoch Times
13-07-2025
- Epoch Times
‘The Road That Made America': Traversing the Wilderness
America has always been defined by its great migration trails. The 19th century had the National Road and the Oregon Trail. In the 20th century, Route 66 was, in John Steinbeck's words, 'The Great Mother Road.' These routes moved Americans west to new homes. These are well remembered today. Yet the oldest of the great migratory routes, and perhaps the most influential, is largely forgotten today. James Dodson explores this road in 'The Road That Made America: A Modern Pilgrim's Journey on the Great Wagon Road.'
Los Angeles Times
08-07-2025
- Politics
- Los Angeles Times
I've covered California for more than four decades. That's why I'm taking on Essential California
For more than 40 years, I have reported on some of California's biggest ruptures, contradictions, characters and conundrums. Now I'll be working the phones, roving this blessed and sometimes cursed state and arriving most mornings here in your inbox as the regular host of Essential California. I'll be trying to help you understand the people, places and events that are changing California, though we know it's a place that's always a little beyond our grasp, a place, as John Steinbeck said of 'Cannery Row' that 'is a poem, a stink, a grating noise, a quality of light, a tone, a habit, a nostalgia, a dream.' I hope that the rest of you essential Californians, expatriate Californians and Californians-in-waiting will respond with inspiration, recriminations and story ideas for me and the rest of our crackerjack crew: fellow reporter Andrew Campa, multiplatform editor Kevinisha Walker and Times newsletters czar Karim Doumar. You can reach us at essentialcalifornia@ Here's how I got here: Though I was born in New York City, my parents moved us to L.A. when my brother was a toddler, and I was an infant. My sister soon joined us, born in Beverly Hills. One of my earliest memories was of grabbing the L.A. Times off the front stoop the morning after Bobby Kennedy was shot at the Ambassador Hotel, right here in Los Angeles. His sudden, inexplicable death was a 9-year-old's introduction to the concept of impermanence. Journalism found me at Santa Monica High School, where you signed up for the school paper, the Samohi, because faculty advisor Larry Knuth was way cool and because Bob Woodward and Carl Bernstein had just sent President Nixon packing for San Clemente. At UC Berkeley's Daily Californian I covered sports, including football, and witnessed the greatest play in college football history, which I write about as often as I possibly can. I entered the pro newspaper ranks with a tiny daily in Danville, east of Oakland. I wrote about playwright Eugene O'Neill's historic home and came face to face in a prison interview with Sara Jane Moore, the suburban housewife who tried to gun down President Ford. More than four decades on, California and its people have remained the center of my reporting world. I was on the streets the fearful night when L.A. burned, after a Simi Valley jury decided not to hold rogue LAPD officers responsible for the savage beating of motorist Rodney King. I've covered every L.A. mayor from Tom Bradley to Karen Bass. I wrote about torment in the state's youth prisons and heartbreak in the overburdened foster care system. I rode horseback into the Sierras to watch a biologist reestablish trout in a high mountain lake. I swam along (for a mile or two) with a young doctor who conquered the Catalina Channel. I hung out with nudists, wearing nothing but combat boots, in a remote desert oasis. On rare occasions, my family became part of the news. It happened joyously, when I wrote about my dad on his 90th birthday, celebrated as a working actor. It happened tragically, when someone beat my older brother to death in his Culver City chiropractic office, a crime that remains unsolved. The news blasted onto the Rainey family doorstep again in January. The epic Palisades fire incinerated the Malibu home where I grew up. I'd be reporting on the fire recovery anyway. Now it has become extra personal. The fire reintroduced me to an old friend named Bill Stange. He's a surfer, fisherman, contractor and a bit of a sage. After Bill's home burned he said something about Malibu that might apply to California as a whole. 'No matter what, [it] goes back to its wildness,' he said, in part. 'It turns out we are all just renters here.' As I help shepherd Essential California, I am fortunate to remain on the story of this singular place. I hope you'll spend some time with me, seeking out the serious, the silly and the sublime. Email us at essentialcalifornia@ and your response might appear in the newsletter this week. Today's great photo is from Juliana Yamada at Gladstone's in the Pacific Palisades. Six months after closing due to the Palisades fire, the iconic seafood restaurant finally reopened last weekend. Jim Rainey, staff writerDiamy Wang, homepage internIzzy Nunes, audience internKevinisha Walker, multiplatform editorAndrew Campa, Sunday writerKarim Doumar, head of newsletters How can we make this newsletter more useful? Send comments to essentialcalifornia@ Check our top stories, topics and the latest articles on
Harpers Bazaar Arabia
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Harpers Bazaar Arabia
The Ultimate Guide To The Amalfi Coast
Known for its romantic fishing villages nestled among cliffs, creative culinary scene and impressive collection of luxury hotels, there's good reason why the Amalfi Coast tops many a traveller's honeymoon bucket list While Rome may have its museums, Milan its high fashion scene and Puglia its rustic beauty, few Italian regions set the scene for romance quite like the Amalfi Coast. A place that novelist John Steinbeck called one of the 'most beautiful and dramatic coastlines in the world', where D.H. Lawrence wrote Lady Chatterley's Lover, and where the likes of Reese Witherspoon, Kim Kardashian and Anna Paquin have all honeymooned, this 50km coastal stretch spanning the towns of Positano to Vietri sul Mare is the epitome of post-wedding la dolce vita. As the busy summer season sets in, Bazaar Bride escaped the heat of the Middle East to venture to the slightly less intense heat on the southern edge of Italy's Sorrentine Peninsula – the perfect setting for newlyweds looking to unwind and toast to their new chapter together. Amalfi The coast's namesake charming town that comes steeped in history, Amalfi is ideal for loved-up couples looking to wander hand-in-hand through its winding lanes dotted with boutiques, bars and cafés. At its heart lies Piazza Duomo, where a grand staircase leads to the striking 12th-century Cathedral of Sant'Andrea, while the town is also renowned for its centuries-old papermaking tradition and vibrant lemon cultivation. Follow the lively Via Lorenzo D'Amalfi to discover the Paper Museum and the Amalfi Lemon Experience, where local limoncello and ancient lemon groves await – an idyllic excursion for two. Where To Stay: Anantara Convento Di Amalfi Grand Hotel Perched high above the town's sun-soaked port, Anantara's cliffside sanctuary was once a Capuchin monastery, paying tribute to its history by blending 13th-century serenity with five-star flair. Sitting quietly removed from Amalfi's swirl of scooters and camera-toting daytrippers, yet still easily accessible from town (shuttles run every hour, or guests can book private transfers on request), enjoy the same moments of reflection once reserved for its resident monks through its peaceful, bougainvillea-draped Monk's Walk which, stretching the full length of the property, is a stunning spot to soak in views that span the Gulf of Salerno, spritz in hand. Home to 52 extravagant rooms and suites scattered across multiple levels in what was once the monks' living quarters, while their vaulted ceilings, original tiles and cloister-facing windows remain, they now come complemented by sleek Italian furnishings, Carrara marble bathrooms and modern luxuries like Nespresso machines and Aqua di Parma amenities. Some suites have private terraces with hot tubs perfect for honeymooners, one even hides within its own lemon grove. As to be expected from the renowned Anantara brand, dining here is most certainly anything but an afterthought, showcasing the region's bounty in simple yet delightful ways. Take your pick from gourmet restaurant Dei Cappuccini, where chef Claudio Lanuto draws from the hotel's gardens and trusted local suppliers to dish up the likes of grilled lobster, lemon-laced pasta and just-caught seafood served al fresco, while La Locanda della Canonica is all about traditional wood-fired pizzas courtesy of Naples maestro Gino Sorbillo. Come morning, breakfast is a lavish affair on the terrace, accompanied by a live harpist and sea breeze – you can burn some of it off at the open-air gym if you're that way inclined. As for its seemingly-endless amenities, there's an Instagram-ready infinity pool overlooking the azure waters and an intimate spa complete with hammam, two couple rooms with saunas and steam room (we highly recommend booking in for the Citrus Massage Experience, which uses a combination of citrus oils to harness the natural benefits of the Italian lemon), while guests can also book Vespa rides, boat trips to Capri and private history tours including a fascinating walk through the property's historic chapel and cloister with local friar Marcus. Be sure to experience them all. Don't Miss The recent Netflix adaptation of Patricia Highsmith's 1950s novel The Talented Mr. Ripley may have sparked a surge in tourism to a quaint seaside Italian town Atrani but, just a short 10-minute walk from the centre of Amalfi, it is still a stunning spot to escape the chaos complete with characteristic scalinatelle (stairways), quiet beaches and a plethora of cafes serving up refreshing lemon granita. Romantic Ravello is also just a 20-minute drive away, home to exquisite 800-year-old villas and the most breathtaking views of the region. Capri Located just off the Bay of Naples, Capri is perhaps the most exclusive of all towns in the Amalfi Coast, and arguably the most romantic. Not only is it where the Roman Emperor Tiberius came to live, but you'll find wealthy European and international jet setters in their droves enjoying aperitivo on terraces long after the last ferry returns to Naples or Positano, taking the crowds with it. Blanketed with Mediterranean shrubs, blooming Broom flowers, Bougainvillea and lemon trees (you'll be forgiven for thinking lemons are its entire personality), it's also worth retreating to Anacapri on the other side of the island which, once derided as rustic and uncultured, offers couples a slower, more soulful side of island life, still within a stone's throw away from the designer shops and restaurants of Capri proper. Where To Stay: Capri Palace Jumeirah Tucked into the quieter folds of Anacapri, high above the island's glittering coastlines and beyond the thrum of the Piazzetta, Capri Palace Jumeirah feels worlds away from the jet-set circus below. Think whitewashed architecture, museum-worthy art collections and a mood that is far from rustic but never showy, the hotel occupies a commanding perch with views across the Bay of Naples. Under the wing of Jumeirah, a luxury name we are all familiar with, since 2019, the property has introduced subtle design updates without disturbing its soul, the most recent being its five new suites by architect Patricia Urquiola that opened this summer. All terracotta and marine blues, sculptural plaster walls that ripple like waves and custom pieces that blur the line between furniture and form, they are a playful contrast to the resort's other suites, which come complete with soft sun-bleached tones, minimalist furnishings and a restraint that lets the sea view take centre stage. Wellness is also a serious affair here, with its famed Capri Medical Spa focusing on circulation, detox and beauty. Its Leg School treatment is a must try, with its three-part ritual of medicated mud, cooling bandages and hydrotherapy promising lighter steps and smoother skin, ideal after long days of travel. As for the food, be sure to linger over an expansive breakfast by the pool before heading down to lunch at Il Riccio Beach Club, where Dior-branded parasols and dishes including burrata, lobster, oysters and super fresh catch of the day make for a stylish, sun-drenched lunch. As for dinner, choose from sushi and DJs with the style set at the rooftop Zuma, or candlelit Campanian dishes at L'Olivo, a critically acclaimed restaurant helmed by chef Andrea Migliaccio. Don't Miss You can't visit Capri without getting out on the water, and the best way to do that is via a luxury private charter, where you'll be able to get close to Casa Malaparte (the Italian Modern masterpiece built in the late 1930s after Adalberto Libera's designs), which is otherwise closed to the public. There are companies galore, however, so it's best to contact your hotel concierge ahead of time to see which service they recommend. Positano The glitziest gem of the Amalfi Coast, Positano has long been a favourite among honeymooners since the a modest fishing village, its transformation began in the 1950s, helped along by author John Steinbeck, who famously described it as a 'dream place' in a 1953 Harper's Bazaar article titled Positano Bites Deep. Where To Stay: Le Sirenuse A recurring entry in The World's 50 Best list, Le Sirenuse was opened in 1951 by Neapolitan siblings Aldo, Paolo, Anna and Franco Sersale, and has been run by the Sersale family ever since. Just a five-minute walk from the port, guests can enter discreetly via a private staircase meaning not only can you arrive stress-free, you'll also avoid the throngs of crowds vying to get a glimpse of this iconic hotel, which comes is among a cascade of picturesque homes clinging to steep cliffs that plunge toward the sea. Home to just 58 rooms and suites defined by hand-painted ceramic tiles, private patios and Carrara marble bathrooms, Le Sirenuse is so much more than just a luxury hotel, blending the worlds of fashion, culture, gastronomy, mixology and wellbeing in one fell swoop. Case in point? The scenic La Sponda restaurant, informally glamorous bar-bistrot Aldo's and the chic little Pool Bar showcase this southern Italian region's authentic seasonal produce, each offering candlelit corners and sweeping views made for romance. Its contemporary spa comes designed by architect Gae Aulenti, where a range of signature treatments are available alongside a fitness area with two total-workout Megaformer machines, while guests can enjoy an impressive array of all-inclusive weekly activities including trekking on some of the Amalfi Coast's spectacular mountain trails, fitness classes, hotel flower tours, sunset cruises and even breakfast on the Sant' Antonio boat. As to be expected, art also takes pride of place – the hotel's décor was assembled over decades by antique collector Franco Sersale, with a growing site-specific contemporary art collection featuring talents of the calibre of Martin Creed, Nicolas Party and Swiss artist Caroline Bachmann. Don't Miss Praiano may be known as Positano's quieter and quainter neighbour, but that's not the case at One Fire Beach, which is perhaps the most stylish beach club in the region. A short 10-minute boat transfer from Positano port, this is a place that takes the meaning of 'fun in the sun.' Be sure to stay until at least 4.30pm, which marks the Insta-famous 'watermelon show', a lively spectacle led by the enthusiastic samurai-sword-wielding staff.
Toronto Sun
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Toronto Sun
Tony-winning actress breaks silence after polarizing NBA Finals anthem performance
Kristin Chenoweth took to Instagram Stories after performing U.S. anthem before Thunder's Game 7 win Kristin Chenoweth sings the national anthem prior to Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Indiana Pacers. Getty Images Reviews and recommendations are unbiased and products are independently selected. Postmedia may earn an affiliate commission from purchases made through links on this page. Kristin Chenoweth ended both her rendition of The Star-Spangled Banner and her night on a high note Sunday after performing at Game 7 of the NBA Finals. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada. Unlimited online access to articles from across Canada with one account. Get exclusive access to the Toronto Sun ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment on. Enjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalists. Support local journalists and the next generation of journalists. Daily puzzles including the New York Times Crossword. REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account. Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments. Enjoy additional articles per month. Get email updates from your favourite authors. THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK. Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience. Access articles from across Canada with one account Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments Enjoy additional articles per month Get email updates from your favourite authors Don't have an account? Create Account But while she was thrilled to see her beloved Oklahoma City Thunder win the NBA championship at home, many hoops fans weren't very happy with the Tony Award winner's performance of the U.S. national anthem before the game. Read More The Broadway great appeared to reference the backlash she received from users on social media in a couple of posts to her Instagram Stories late Sunday night. She first posted a quote that said, 'The price of authenticity is being disliked.' Later, she followed it up with an excerpt from John Steinbeck's East of Eden , which says: 'And now that you don't have to be perfect, you can be good.' Your noon-hour look at what's happening in Toronto and beyond. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. Please try again This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. A quote posted by Kristin Chenoweth on her Instagram Stories. Instagram Chenoweth took major heat on social media for her rendition of the U.S. national anthem ahead of the deciding game of the championship series between the Indiana Pacers and Oklahoma City Thunder. Chenoweth flexed her vocal muscles while belting out The Star-Spangled Banner , which included holding an incredibly long high note at the song's crescendo. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. But while the Oklahoma native received thunderous applause from the fans in attendance, the verdict on social media was decidedly a lot more negative. 'The Kristin Chenoweth rendition of the National Anthem was a difficult listen,' one user posted on X. 'This is the worst National Anthem I ever heard,' another boldly stated. This advertisement has not loaded yet, but your article continues below. 'I would have rather listened to Fergie's anthem performance than that one by Kristin Chenoweth,' a third user wrote, referencing the Black Eyed Peas singer's infamous outing at the 2018 NBA All-Star Game. Of course, Chenoweth didn't seem too fazed by any of the critiques with any pain seemingly washed away by the thrill of the Thunder victory. The actress shared a video of her post-game reaction from her seat, gleefully screaming 'We did it!' RECOMMENDED VIDEO Toronto Blue Jays NHL Columnists Toronto & GTA Toronto & GTA
