The Steeple Times

Tag: surprising

  • Pitiful Anderson and Priti Awful Patel

    Pitiful Anderson and Priti Awful Patel

    Nikolay Kalinin slams Home Secretary Priti Patel and fellow Tory twerp Lee Anderson MP over their off-pitch antics over tonight’s football final

    It seems that certain Conservative MPs have decided to abandon all sense of reason and intelligence given their recent comments about the England team and UEFA 2020.

     

    A few weeks ago, Home Secretary, “snitch” and “neighbour from hell” Priti Patel spoke out against England players taking the knee at matches as “gesture politics” and stated that fans had the right to boo the players for their actions. Now, however, “hypocrite” Patel done an about turn and begun posting tweets congratulating England’s recent wins. In other words, she began participating gesture politics; not surprising behaviour for such a dogmatic deviant.

     

    Meanwhile, fellow Tory MP Lee Anderson has gone even further, announcing that he will be boycotting the England team by not watching any of the matches because of the gesture. He stated: “For the first time in my life I will not be watching my beloved England team whilst they are supporting a political movement whose core principles aim to undermine our very way of life.”

     

    I am not certain if Anderson knows this, but the values of BLM – which popularised the ‘taking-the-knee’ gestures – are among others: empathy, diversity, globalism and generally creating a better environment for black people. In other words, Anderson stands against the values many people within the government – including the Prime Minister – claim to be promoting.

     

    In both cases, the Internet reacted about as calmly as you can expect, with LBC host James O’Brien telling Priti to “pick a side”, while Labour even launched a petition asking Anderson to not watch the finale on Sunday. They urged him to keep up his “pathetic one-man boycott for one more game” and “stay away, do the housework, watch Midsomer Murders, anything.”

     

    As you might expect, our Prime Minister has also decided to adopt Patel’s strategy of being all patriotic and supportive of England’s team – which he made obvious by hanging England flags all over 10 Downing Street – while also stating in an interview on LBC that he “doesn’t believe in gestures.” Should we also talk about that one time he stood in front of a red bus with a logo promoting £350 million for the NHS, which Patel also did?

     

    I can understand why many people are upset over the England team taking the knee and seeing it as “gesture politics.” However, if you are a politician stating that you don’t like gesture politics while doing that same thing, that shows that you don’t care about honesty and instead trying to capitalise on a trend simply for your own gain. In turn, perhaps the idea that you should not be involved in politics should enter the heads of these hairbrained twerps surely.

     

    Pictured top: Priti Patel tweeted an image of herself cheering on the English team after having previously had a pop at the players over their “taking the knee.”

     

    Priti Patel cheering on England football team
    Priti Patel tweeted an image of herself cheering on the English team after having previously had a pop at the players over their “taking the knee.”
    Naturally, the Home Secretary decided to talk to right wing rant show ‘GB News’ about her views on footballers “taking the knee.” When asked if England fans had a right to boo she responded saying “that’s a choice for them, quite frankly.”
  • Firing Up A 20th Century Limo

    Firing Up A 20th Century Limo

    ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the rammed full of gadgets limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even

    Whilst a 1967 Mercedes-Benz ‘Dictator Car we featured in April eventually sold for £237,000 ($298,000, €264,000 or درهم1.1 million), a lover of limousines with far shallower pockets might care to bid on a Japanese example that is headed to auction this month.

     

    Though the word “limousine” originally derived from the “type of carriage hood that physically resembled the cloak worn by shepherds in the Limousin region of France,” this automotive category is now sadly more generally associated with that especially ghastly, much over-used adjective “luxury.”

     

    Limousines are not only considered the preserve of the aforementioned despots, but they’re also the favoured modes of conveyance of business titans, young Arabic and Russian showoffs and rappers now even. A well-known reader of ours even once stated she’d like to have several herself. This friend of royalty added that a collection of security guards running alongside with torches also would complete her ideal spectacle.

     

    Coming in the form of a four-seat, stretched saloon car, the 1994 Toyota Century to be offered was imported to the UK by Mohamad Issa in 2019. It is longer than a Rolls-Royce Phantom, but slightly shorter than a Maybach at 19-feet in length, is presented in black with a black leather interior and was fully serviced in Japan prior to being shipped. The odometer reads 34,500 miles.

     

    Historics Auctioneers will sell the 1994 Toyota Century limousine at their Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July. They have set an estimate of just £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) and describe the car as being: “A stunning example of a rare car even in Japan, this is a real collector’s car that is a sign of wealth and power for the price of a new Ford Fiesta!”

     

    Featured earlier this year in a 19-minute video by two vloggers named Ben and Alfie of a YouTube channel named The Department of Motoring Affairs, of this particular Century they surmised: “People are surprised that this is a Toyota… If you don’t get it by now you don’t belong in the club anyway… If you know, you know” and indeed they’re right: Here is a quirky limousine that you could only originally have had if the Japanese ‘powers that be’ allowed you.

     

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    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    The passenger “compartment” is described as “richly appointed” and includes not only “soft and supple” heated power, leather seats with variable speed massage functions, but also gadgets galore. Most importantly for the notoriously shy Japanese market, the compartment has all-round curtains as well as an electric privacy partition to separate it from the driver’s compartment (with an intercom communications system).
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    There is a cordless 1990s mobile telephone, a television (described as “working but TV to Japanese specification”) with a VHS player, as well as a tape deck built into the rear centre armrest that even has an in-built recording device. A mini fridge also has a heating function for hot food and there is a cabinet containing crystal glasses and a decanter even.
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    A desk can fold out for a mogul who wishes to work whilst on-the-road inside their Toyota Century limousine. It is made of mahogany and for those that wish to ‘drink-and-ride’ there are mahogany glass holders as well.
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    The chauffeur also gets to sit in luxury (unlike in many other limousines). Whilst in original limousines, the chauffeur’s compartment was open, here they get not only a roof, but a leather seat also.
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    Technology is the order of the day given this Toyota Century limousine was manufactured in Japan. The car has automatic transmission, cruise control and a fully functional digital dash.
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    The soft-closing boot contains the original tyre and jacking equipment.
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    The engine is a Lexus 4-litre 5V-EU V8. Of it, Historics Auctioneers remark: “We are informed by the vendor that [it] starts well and pulls strong with the temperature gauge reading a little below half and the automatic transmission shifts are firm and smooth.”
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    From the front; this Toyota Century stretched saloon is described as “clean and straight, the chrome trim and bumpers are all intact and gleaming.”
    A 20th Century Limo – £13,000 to £17,000 ($16,300 to $21,300, €14,500 to €18,900 or درهم59,900 to درهم78,300) for 1994 Toyota Century limousine at Historics Auctioneers Windsorview Lakes sale on 18th July 2020 – ‘Stretched’ 1994 Toyota Century for sale for less than the price of a brand new Ford Fiesta; the limousine comes with a food heating compartment and privacy curtains favoured by notoriously shy Japanese people even.
    And from the rear; here is a car that Historics Auctioneers laud as having a look “denoting conservative success.”
    Historics Auctioneers have produced a video tour of the vehicle to market it to potential purchasers during the coronavirus lockdown.
    The 1994 Toyota Century limousine to be auctioned featured in an amusing 19-minute long YouTube video in March this year by vlogger Alfred Munkenbeck and his co-host Ben (surname unknown). They plainly loved the vehicle.
  • Davide Giardino – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Davide Giardino – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with economist turned real estate investor Davide Giardino

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom.” What’s your guiding force?

    “The happiness and success of those closest to my heart.”

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    “If you keep your destiny in mind, every moment in life becomes an opportunity to move closer to it.”

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2018?

    Technocrats – as at least populists are lying most of the time.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    A simpler life. I miss the routine of going to an office every morning. Am I crazy?

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    Assets? Well, in all seriousness, good health for me, my family and my friends.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank.” What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    Who is richer and who is poorer from the latest financial crisis? You’ve got my answer…

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    “I am saying it for your sake.”

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home.” What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    Charity often substitutes for the lack of adequate government or international policy which is disappointing. I support a variety of causes including helping children born with congenital diseases and homeless children.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    Shut them off at night.

     

    Real estate investor Davide Giardino – What’s on your mantelpiece? A 20-question interview with Beverly Hills and Greater LA based economist turned real estate investor Davide Giardino.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    My twin brother, a bunch of friends, Isabelle Huppert, Glenn Close and probably Angelina Jolie.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    Bucatini with lobster (I always liked bucatini more than spaghetti), gâteau de pommes de terre (cooked the Neapolitan way), a large portion of figs and a torta caprese chocolate cake. I woiuld probably eat it at the Villa San Michele in Capri, Hotel Bel Air or Cliveden House – all places close to my heart for different reasons.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    11am, though not every day.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A Negroni.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    A dear friend of mine throws the most memorable dinner parties. I love how he always selects a group of diverse people who do not know each other, but will create an incredible energy together by the end of the night. It always helps that I’m always the guest of honour!

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    Maybe me.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Buying French pâtisserie and flowers for myself many times each week.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    “I want it all.”

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A vintage Fiat 500 with a new engine. They are so cute and practical and I don’t need a Maserati to compensate for a lack of personality or something else.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I am still trying to figure myself out.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Fresh flowers.

     

    Davide Giardino is the founder of DGC-Luxury Homes and a licensed realtor at Rodeo Realty – Beverly Hills and Greater LA. He has extensive experience in the real estate advisory and investment business and previously was an economist at several global finance institutions. He describes himself as “a multi-lingual globetrotter” and holds a double degree from Bocconi and USC, an MSc in European political economy from the London School of Economics and a masters in finance from LBS.

     

    Follow Davide Giardino on Facebook at @dgcluxuryhomes and on Instagram at @dgc_la

     

    Facebook: @TheSteepleTimes

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  • Oliver Ouboter – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Oliver Ouboter – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with Oliver Ouboter; the co-founder of the imminently launching innovative Swiss ‘bubble car’ – the Microlino

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom.” What’s your guiding force?

    Passion.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    Just do it! (Thanks Nike).

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2018?

    SUVs.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    Having the curiosity of a child.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    My family’s health.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank.” What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    It’s as fucked up as the Donald himself.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    ‘Trivial’ as in German nobody uses it and most people don’t understand it. I loathe ‘trivial’ for being a ‘non-trivial’ word to describe something ‘trivial.’

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home.” What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    I support mainly environmental causes. It is not that I think that humans deserve it less, I just think sending money to developing countries won’t solve the problem and is just an easy fix for many people to feel good about themselves.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    Try to use it less, fail miserably in doing so and then tell yourself you’re gonna do better next year.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    My family and Barack Obama and Steve Jobs and Nelson Mandela if they were still alive.

     

    Microlino co-founder Oliver Ouboter – What’s on your mantelpiece? A 20-question interview with Oliver Ouboter; the co-founder of the imminently launching innovative Swiss ‘bubble car’ – the Microlino.
    Oliver Ouboter pictured with a Microlino (as featured in ‘The Steeple Times’ earlier this month) and his brother Merlin and father Wim.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    A special home-made roast.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    It depends on the situation.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A Negroni of course.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    Parties of friends that I don’t spend too much time with. There are always new people to get to know.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    My dad.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Chocolate of course. I’m Swiss.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    It would be a Kickscooter, of course.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    What a question: I’d be a Microlino!

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I cannot operate a washing machine but that’s not surprising though.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Big companies and governments. They are slow and inefficient in dealing with global warming.

     

    Oliver Ouboter is the co-founder of a start-up alongside his father and brother that has developed a small electric city-car named Microlino. He is considered one of the best guinea pigs as his dad invented the world-famous Kickscooter in 1999.

     

    Follow Microlino on Twitter at @microlinoworld, on Facebook at @Microlino.car and on Instagram at @microlino_official

     

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  • Haaz Sleiman – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Haaz Sleiman – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with Lebanese-American actor Haaz Sleiman; he has starred in ‘24’, ‘ER’, ‘Killing Jesus’, ‘NCIS’, ‘Nurse Jackie’ and ‘Person of Interest’

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    Love.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    “If you can’t love yourself, how the hell are you going to love somebody else?”

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2018?

    Who is she?

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    Definitely not him. I hate politics. I’d say: My future husband. Where is he?

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    To be adopted by Madonna.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    It is terrible. We have a vanishing middle class.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    ‘Retard’.

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    I support anything to do with homeless LGBTQ youth and animals.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    I’m sorry but I don’t understand the question.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    My parents and all my siblings with their families.

     

    Lebanese-American actor Haaz Sleiman – What’s on your mantelpiece? He has starred in ‘24’, ‘ER’, ‘Killing Jesus’, ‘NCIS’ and ‘Nurse Jackie’
    Haaz Sleiman as Jesus in the 2015 television film ‘Killing Jesus’

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    In the most lush and exotic natural habitat with tonnes of trees and waterfalls or by the ocean. I’d have the best steak and fries with the most expensive bottle of red wine possible.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    I don’t drink much really.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    Tea.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    I enjoy concerts because I love seeing how music makes the people come together. Thank you Madonna.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    E-Jay Randolph, my mentor.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    RuPual’s Drag Race.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    A cross with a naked Jesus hanging on it wearing a Star of David pendant around his neck. Jesus would have a tattoo in Arabic on his left pec of the most important line in the Quran, the line that you would need to say to become Muslim. I am interested in inclusion.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A Tesla.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I’m a baby in a grown ass man’s body. It’s a good thing.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    A framed picture of my beautiful mother.

     

    Haaz Sleiman is a Lebanese-American television and film actor. He starred as Jesus in the TV series ‘Killing Jesus’ and has also appeared in series such as ‘24’, ‘CSI: Miami’, ‘ER’, ‘NCIS’, ‘Nurse Jackie’ and ‘Person of Interest’. He describes himself as: “A lost soul finding its way back home.”

     

    Follow Haaz Sleiman on Twitter at @haazsleiman, on Facebook at @haazsleiman and on Instagram at @haazsleiman

     

    Facebook: @TheSteepleTimes

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  • Zach Tinker – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Zach Tinker – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with American actor and star of NBC’s ‘Law & Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders’ Zach Tinker

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    My gut and my heart.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    “Kill ‘em with kindness.”

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2017?

    To be frank, I had no idea who Kerry Katona is so I looked her up. I also searched “Kerry Katona 2007,” but couldn’t find anything besides some stuff about her being on drugs and held up at knifepoint: I feel like I’m getting off track here.

     

    I would say bigotry is unacceptable in 2017. It’s a distraction. There is so much going on right now that could end really badly and that’s where our focus should be, not on looking for someone else to blame because of their colour or gender or religion.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    Only at certain times, but I miss being a little kid: Ignorance is bliss.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    More wealth. I’m kidding: Probably the ability to fly.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    I am probably not the one to ask: I’m 23 and just starting to deal with the state of my own economy. But it seems logical that the world is a better place if more people can participate, when we all feel like we have a stake in the outcome.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    “The proof is in the pudding” – I’ve never understood what the hell that means. On a more positive and sort of related note,my favourite word is “goop.”

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    I think: “Charity begins at need” – That seems more relevant, especially with the horrible string of natural disasters that have occurred around the world recently.

     

    From elementary school through college, charity and volunteering was built in to the education curriculum, so that made it easy and I was very involved in with Camp Harmony. It is a well-run programme to support under privileged children from inner cities, the homeless and troubled families. They host summer camps, winter camps, holiday events, do food drives, back to school drives, support mentorships… I volunteered there for five or six years and it’s one of the most incredible and rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. Sadly, I haven’t been very active in that community for the past few years because of my schedule, but to anyone living in Los Angeles, I couldn’t recommend the programme enough.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    If the question is: “What is my view on the appropriate use of cell phones that explode?” I would probably say, never. They are crazy dangerous, plus I heard their network coverage is terrible.

     

    When it comes to regular old mobile phones, I think in general, just don’t be a dick. I know that sounds flip, but most of us know when phone use is not okay: Don’t text and drive; don’t talk on the phone in a movie theatre and don’t FaceTime at a funeral.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    Michael Jordan, Lincoln, Marlon Brando, Will Smith, Paul McCartney, Frank Sinatra, Eminem, MLK, Louis CK, Dave Chappelle and my mother’s father. He passed away when my mom was seven and I’d like to meet him and say thank you.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    A bucket of Ben & Jerry’s half-baked half-twisted ice cream, my grandma’s Italian chicken cutlets, a jar of Skippy Peanut Butter, a box of Captain Crunch Berries with 2% milk, a PB&J sandwich on whole wheat, and a slice of Susie Cakes’ red velvet cake for dessert. Oh, and a big bottle of lemon-lime Gatorade to wash it down. I would eat it in prison, presumably, since I’m on death row.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    I don’t drink regularly, but that’s mostly about fitness. I’m not judging, but first thing after you wake up is probably not the best idea. Otherwise, sometimes a drink is just what the doctor ordered; I get it.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    Tea, but I’ll need two packs of Stevia in there first.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    Small ones: I like when gatherings are intimate, where I can have conversations with people and get to know them.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    Probably my step-dad, Ken Karman.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    The TV show My Strange Addiction. That show is insane. All those kinds of shows: Intervention, Cops, etc. They’re trash TV, I know, but God are they entertaining to watch.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    Hmmm… A piece of chocolate candy, maybe: Sweet with a slightly hard exterior and a soft and gooey inside.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    I’d like to say a Ferrari or Lambo, but I’m probably more like a 2005 Mazda Miata or something.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I almost bit my own tongue off as a child and had to have it sewn back on while conscious and awake.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    There is no actual mantelpiece in my tiny studio apartment, but I do have out on display an award my grandfather received from the NBC television network, a book about Marlon Brando, the graphic novel, Watchmen and a bottle of acne medication (left that out, unintentionally).

     

    Actor Zach Tinker was born in New York in 1994 into a family of directors, writers and producers. He is the first of his family to work in front of the camera and currently appears in the NBC series ‘Law & Order True Crime: The Menendez Murders’ as Craig Cignarelli, a classmate of Erik Menéndez .

     

    Follow Zach Tinker on Twitter at @ZachTinker and on Instagram at @zach_atticus.

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gVcw6H2MA8E

  • Pauline Amos – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Pauline Amos – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with Liverpool born artist Pauline Amos; one of her works is for sale for £1.3 million

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    Myself.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    “If you hesitate, you’ve lost.”

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2017?

    Abū Bakr al-Baghdadi.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    My dad.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    Ending cruelty to animals and children.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    A disgrace.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    Trump.

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    Being charitable is being a good human being. I support Coram children’s charity, Stop Ivory, the RNLI and charities that support war veterans.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    Use if necessary.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    Shakespeare, Winston Churchill, Stephen Fry, Oscar Wilde, my husband, my dogs, Hunter S. Thompson and Maya Angelou.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    Caviar. On the outside.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    Blackwell Rum on porridge for breakfast. Every hour is acceptable.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A martini.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    My own: I choose the guests and the music.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    Myself.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Charbonnel & Walker salt caramel chocolates.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    An angel.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A Bentley Land Rover hybrid.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    One of my paintings is on sale for £1.3 million.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Two silver candlesticks, some invitations and a sign that reads: “Scouse and Proud.”

     

    Born in Liverpool, Pauline Amos is a creative performance painting artist with a unique style of work combining painting, performance and music. Amos has a PhD from Dartington College of Arts and has drawn international acclaim for her provocative, powerful and bold works.

     

    Follow Pauline Amos on Twitter at @paulineamos99 and like her page on Facebook by clicking here.

     

     

  • Sandra Howard – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Sandra Howard – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with Sandra Howard – novelist, former model and wife of Conservative politician The Rt. Hon. Lord Howard of Lympne

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    Seeing the upside of life and what’s to laugh at.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    Perseverance pays.

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2017?

    Kim Kardashian’s bottom.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    Talking to my mother – She was a sage and a wonderful rock.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    A continuing, happy, healthy marriage.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    That’s too taxing for my ‘small bear’ financial brain. Well above my pay grade.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    “At the end of the day” and I’m not mad about: “You know what?” (Jeremy Corbyn’s favourite phrase).

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    It should begin at home and continue overseas. I’d hate to see our foreign aid budget cut. I support Addaction (to help people off drugs), Youth Epilepsy and Hospice UK.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    They rule our lives, sometimes for better and frequently for worse.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    All my closest (bridge-playing and witty) friends.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    Fresh crab, Dover sole, some delicious smelly cheese and a ripe mango. I’d eat it on Grand Anse Beach in Grenada, slipping in a last swim in that glorious clear sea.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    A Buck’s Fizz at breakfast isn’t a bad start to the day.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A cup of tea.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    Other peoples’ – I’m a mess of nerves when giving one of my own.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    My husband – Most of the time.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    A day (or more) entirely to myself to write in peace and privacy, not doing any of all the stuff, emails etc. that gets in the way.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    A black cat – I think I’ve had lots of luck in my life.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A Mini Cooper is about my marque – fast, but I hope not flashy.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    I’m a passionate supporter of Liverpool Football Club.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Family photos, a pair of china cockerels and a vase of lovely lavender freesias.

     

    Sandra Howard has quickly established herself as a successful author and journalist. She has written six novels; her latest, ‘The Consequence of Love’, is published on 13th July. She was, in the 1960s, a leading photographic fashion model and lives in London and Kent.

     

    Follow Sandra Howard on Twitter at @howardsandrac and like her page on Facebook at @sandrahoward76.

     

  • Enzina Fuschini – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Enzina Fuschini – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with artist, ceramicist and designer Enzina Fuschini

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    God. I am a Christian and I believe in what is good and honourable.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    To forgive and forget.

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2017?

    A lack of support for mental health.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    Human justice and my childhood home.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    One more day with my mother and grandmother. Both have sadly passed away.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    It is a disaster. The financial target is to control and depopulate humanity. The rich want to get rich at any cost and they want to create an elite race.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    I loathe swearing in any context.

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    I support charities associated with my faith and congregation at Holy Trinity Brompton (HTB), Knightsbridge.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    Mobile phones are useful but people are addicted and these devices cause them to become anti-social.

     

    What’s on your mantelpiece? The Steeple Times conducts a 20-question interview with London based artist and designer Enzina Fuschini.
    Enzina Fuschini exhibited at the 508 Kings Road Gallery in Chelsea, London, SW10 in June 2017

     

    If you could fill a carriage on The Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    People not fortunate enough to be able to afford this experience that work hard and would deserve it.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    I wouldn’t want to eat anything as I would be too scared about death.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    At lunchtime with friends.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A dry martini.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    Those given by family and friends that celebrate the achievements of life.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    My daughters are the most positive people I know.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Apple tarts. The best one I’ve ever had was at The Botanist on Sloane Square.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    A tattoo could not sum me up as I do not like them.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    A Jaguar.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    When you get to know me, you will know. I’m not giving away my secrets.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    An antique mirror and a vase of white roses.

     

    Enzina Fuschini is a London based artist, ceramicist and designer. She was born in Matierno, Italy and aside from exhibiting internationally, has also produced luxury collections for and to be sold by amongst others The Dorchester, Harrods and Sunseeker Yachts. Her style has drawn comparisons with the ‘wit’ of Picasso and the vitality of Kandinsky, Klee and Miro.

     

    Follow Enzina Fuschini on Twitter at @FuschiniEnzina.

     

  • Ross Barr-Hoyland – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    Ross Barr-Hoyland – What’s on your mantelpiece?

    A 20-question interview with British men’s knitwear designer Ross Barr-Hoyland

     

    The Steeple Times shares “wit and wisdom”. What’s your guiding force?

    To aim to leave the world a better place than you found it.

     

    “Don’t get even, get medieval” is, in our humble opinion, a great motto. What’s yours?

    To strive to achieve and be better than the best person you could be.

     

    Kerry Katona was considered unacceptable in 2007. Who or what is unacceptable in 2017?

    The wars in the Middle East and Chechnya and what the regimes there are doing to gay men are unacceptable.

     

    Our world is full of divisiveness and prejudice and Kerry Katona evidently went through an incredibly turbulent time in her life. The press unscrupulously had no shame in reporting such and instead of judging, we should be there to offer help and support and perhaps show some empathy and understanding.

     

    Our lives are not always fairytales and “let they who are without sin cast the first stone” is a saying that springs to mind.

     

    Tony Blair misses being Prime Minister. What do you miss most in your life?

    I don’t think there is anything in my life as such that I miss. I am working on my business – which is a dream many would wish for. It is by no means easy, but I am lucky in many, many respects.

     

    What might you swap all your wealth for?

    I wish I had great wealth to swap, but if I had immense wealth I would give it to all the causes I support in many ways from The Prince’s Trust to Style for Soldiers, Children with Cancer UK and RUComingOut. Even if I only had pennies, I would still like to give what I could as there is always someone in need of help.

     

    Donald Trump was once a case of: “If you owe the bank a thousand, they close you down; but if you owe the bank a billion, you own the bank”. What’s your view on the state of the financial system?

    I am by no means an expert but I do know everyone is finding it tough with cuts happening in every sector of business. I just keep my head down and focus on what I do in fashion and the revival of British manufacturing. What I will say is that my bank has been utterly incredible in supporting me with my business venture.

     

    What phrase or word do you most loathe?

    Being told I cannot do something.

     

    In the UK, some people consider charity to “begin at home”. What’s your view and what causes do you personally support?

    Aside from supporting the charities previously mentioned, I am honoured to have been supported myself by The Prince’s Trust. I serve them in whatever capacity they as a Young Ambassador and with the brand.

     

    More generally, we might be an island nation but no man is. I think charity should be given where it is most needed.

     

    The judge in Law Abiding Citizen states: “I can pretty much do whatever I want” before being blown up whilst answering her mobile phone. What’s your view on the appropriate use of such devices?

    I am never without my phone, but I would never condone using any devices to cause harm to others.

     

    Mobile phones do have their perks and do allow us to literally have the world at our fingertips, but I do wonder what we would be seeing if we perhaps looked at the world around us and lived in the moment a little more.

     

    The Steeple Times’ What’s on your mantelpiece? interview – A 20-question interview with British men’s knitwear designer Ross Barr-Hoyland, founder of the Ross Barr brand.

     

    If you could fill a carriage on the Orient Express, who would be your fellow passengers?

    With every single family member and friend who has supported and there for me and my business. We would have a good old knees-up and some much needed time off.

     

    If you were unfortunate enough to end up on death row, what would be your last meal and where would you eat it?

    Well, I hope to never end up there, but if I did, I’d choose my mother’s Sunday roast at home surrounded by my nearest and dearest. That would be the best way to go.

     

    What time is it acceptable to consume the first drink of the day?

    That depends on the type of day you are having.

     

    A Negroni, a martini or a cup of tea?

    A martini.

     

    Whose parties do you enjoy the most and why?

    I have enjoyed many so it would be rude to pick one in particular – especially as the memories of some are rather hazy.

     

    Who is the most positive person you know?

    I have to pick seven perpetually positive people who keep me going daily and they are Natasha Babar-Evans, Melissa Hulme, Sandie Chapman, Stephanie Ackrill, Sarah Agar-Brenan and Craig Burton.

     

    I would also like to single out a person whom has inspired me immensely. Her name is Gaynor and she has just started a business called Holiday Hack. Over the last year, she’s faced some of the biggest obstacles anyone could have thrown their way but she hasn’t cried and she hasn’t crumbled. She is an incredible lady and always has a smile on her face – and she can also get you savings on a holiday too; maybe even on the Orient Express.

     

    What’s your most guilty pleasure?

    Having a long sleep wrapped up in my bed covers.

     

    If a tattoo were to sum you up, what would it be of?

    A phoenix and a stag.

     

    If you were a car, what marque would you be?

    Someone answered this for me at a networking event a while ago. They described me as a Range Rover.

     

    Cilla Black presented Surprise, Surprise. Tell us the most surprising thing about you.

    People think I’m a ‘social butterfly’ but I’m actually a ‘pub with a just a few people’ kind of guy.

     

    What’s currently sitting on your mantelpiece?

    Pictures of my family.

     

    Ross Barr-Hoyland established his own men’s knitwear brand, Ross Barr, in September 2015 after being sponsored by the Enterprise programme of The Prince’s Trust. He focuses on reviving the British textile manufacturing industry by manufacturing in Britain.

     

    Follow Ross Bar on Twitter at @RossBarrUK and Instagram at @RossBarrUK.