Blog masonry

Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame to hold Billy Joel symposium

Billy Joel performs at Allegiant Stadium on November 09, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)Billy Joel is going to be the subject of a new symposium at the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame in Stony Brook, New York.According to the description, the June conference will be “devoted to the music, lyrics, themes, and cultural impact of Billy Joel.” It will feature scholars, critics, musicians and more, offering “critical analysis of Joel’s artistry, life, […]

December 15, 2025

Entertainment

Famed director Rob Reiner and wife Michele Singer stabbed to death in Los Angeles home: Sources

Rob Reiner speaks onstage at the screening of 'Misery' during the 2025 TCM Classic Film Festival at TCL Chinese Theatre on April 25, 2025 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Jesse Grant/Getty Images for TCM)Director Rob Reiner and his wife, Michele Singer, were found dead in their Los Angeles home on Sunday, according to a statement from their family.Senior law enforcement sources told ABC News the victims were stabbed to death in their Brentwood-area residence."It is with profound sorrow that we […]

December 15, 2025

Entertainment

2 found dead at Los Angeles home owned by director Rob Reiner: Police

ABC NewsRob Reiner attends the Premiere of "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues" at The Egyptian Theatre Hollywood on September 09, 2025 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Alberto E. Rodriguez/FilmMagic)The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating two deaths at a home that property records show belongs to director Rob Reiner in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles.Senior law enforcement sources told ABC News the victims were stabbed to death.Officers were called to the home at 3:40 p.m. PT, the […]

December 15, 2025

Health

How Improving Healthcare For People With Disabilities Helps Everyone

Special Olympics is working to close major gaps in healthcare for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. A new global report reveals widespread problems – from poor provider training to communication barriers – that prevent individuals with IDD from receiving informed, respectful, and effective care. The organization hopes to create a more inclusive system by improving physician training and empowering people with IDD to participate in their own health decisions. Guest Information: Dr. Dimitri Christakis, pediatrician, Chief Health Officer, Special […]

December 14, 2025

Viewpoints

Libraries On The Line: How Funding Cuts Are Affecting Local Libraries

There are more than 125,000 library branches across the country. For many smaller, rural towns, these locations aren’t just a place to get books but are a lifeline for countless other resources. Following an executive order that would reduce funding – which has since been overturned – libraries need support now more than ever. Our experts explain how these funds are used to enhance local communities and civil participation. Kate Laughlin, executive director, Association for Rural and Small Libraries Sam […]

December 14, 2025

Health

Peripheral Neuropathy: Causes, Symptoms, And New Treatment Options

When nerves lose the energy they need to function, it leads to numbness, pain, and loss of mobility for millions of Americans. New research is uncovering how risk factors like obesity, high blood pressure, and food insecurity disproportionately affect certain communities. As scientists work to refine treatments and explore promising therapies that include GLP-1 medications, early detection, dietary changes, and improved access to healthcare remain critical to stopping the progression of this condition. Guest Information: Dr. Eva Feldman, Russell N. […]

December 14, 2025

Viewpoints

Saving Coral Reefs: Why These Animals Matter More Than We Think

Coral reefs are home to 25 percent of all marine life – approximately 800,000 species. But these vibrant, colorful landscapes are more than just a home for aquatic life. Coral reefs are animals themselves. Two ocean experts join us this week to share some interesting facts about these unique creatures and why people should care about their declining existence. Helen Fox, conservation science director, Coral Reef Alliance; Juli Berwald, ocean expert, author, Life on the Rocks: Building a Future for […]

December 14, 2025

Music

Disney World announces closing date for Rock ‘n’ Roller featuring Aerosmith

Disney World announces closing date for Rock ‘n’ Roller featuring AerosmithDisney World has announced the last date of operation for the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster featuring Aerosmith.It was previously reported that Aerosmith’s video intro for the ride, which featured Steven Tyler and Joe Perry, had been removed in order for construction to start on a Muppets revamp of the roller coaster. Disney World’s website has since revealed that the last day of operation for the ride will be March 1.It was announced […]

December 12, 2025

Music

Billy Preston documentary set for February theatrical release

American keyboardist, singer and songwriter Billy Preston (1949-2006), circa 1975. (Photo by Watal Asanuma/Shinko Music/Getty Images)A documentary on Grammy winner Billy Preston is coming to theaters in February.Billy Preston: That's The Way God Planned It was directed by Emmy winner Paris Barclay and premiered at South by Southwest. It's set to open Feb. 20 at the Film Forum in New York City, with plans to release it in select theaters in North America sometime in 2026.“We are more than thrilled that the soul […]

December 12, 2025