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'Australia's Forrest Gump' reaches major milestone

The man dubbed Australia's Forrest Gump has arrived back Down Under to complete the final leg of a mammoth journey. Tim Franklin has long dreamed of becoming the fastest person to run from one end of the world to the other, and has already completed most of his journey. The 40-year-old has run over 19,000 kilometres through 17 countries across five continents, setting off on his epic adventure in December 2022. With a world record in his sights, has been averaging more than a marathon a day for the past 427 days, as he battled floods, snow, exhaustion and injury on his travels. The worst of his hurdles came when his father was dying, as he decided to pause his journey to come home and say his goodbyes to the man he describes as "my hero, my mentor". "That message he gave me of 'go out and finish that damn run' was the last thing he said to me before he passed away," Franklin told <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/australias-forrest-gump-tim-franklin-lands-australia-final-leg-tim-runs-the-world/c3dac7d4-8c71-4fc5-84e2-4fbd2fb5af61" target="_blank" rel="noopener">9News</a>. The pause in proceedings knocked him out of world record pace but it didn't derail his dream and only further fuelling the fire for him to achieve his goals. In order to "officially" run around the world, certain kilometres need to completed in each continent. Franklin started his journey in New Zealand, before heading coast to coast across the US, then South America, and across from Spain through Europe to the Black Sea. After a short stint in Asia he decided to head back to Australia, landing in Perth to a surprise greeting from his siblings. Now, it's the beginning of the end as Franklin makes his way from Perth to Brisbane, via Adelaide, Melbourne and Sydney. "[I'm] really excited to be back here in Aus for the last leg of my run." When he finally reaches Queensland, his friends and family will be waiting but there's one thing the 40-year-old is looking forward to most. "I just wanna give my mum a hug to be honest," he said. Image credits: 9News

International Travel

The FBI tracked Aretha Franklin for 40 years - here’s why

Until 2007, Aretha Franklin was tracked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with her bumper 270-page file recently obtained by <a href="https://rollingstoneindia.com/aretha-franklin-was-tracked-by-the-fbi-for-40-years-heres-whats-in-her-file/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rolling Stone</a>. The Queen of Soul, who passed away in 2018 aged 76, was subjected to false phone calls and surveillance, as well as having her inner circle infiltrated by FBI sources, according to the outlet. Franklin’s file, first requested via the Freedom of Information Act shortly after her death, is reportedly filled with phrases such as “Black extremists”, “pro-communist”, “hate America”, “radical”, “racial violence”, and “militant Black power”. It also contained plenty of suspicion about the singer, her work, and the other artists and activists she associated with, as the FBI tried and failed to connect the Respect singer to the Black Liberation Army and other “radical” movements. According to the documents, Franklin’s civil rights work and association with activists including Martin Luther King Jr and Angela Davies, became a focus for the FBI, with agents tracking her addresses, phone numbers and activities. The singer’s son, Kecalf, told the Rolling Stone he was unsure whether Franklin knew she was under surveillance but said it was a “waste of time” for the FBI to follow her “every move” for so many years after failing to connect her to radical movements of any kind. "I'm not really sure if my mother was aware that she was being targeted by the FBI and followed. I do know that she had absolutely nothing to hide though…” he said. "It does make me feel a certain way knowing the FBI had her targeted and wanted to know her every move. "But at the same time knowing my mother and the way she ran her business I know she had nothing to hide so they wouldn't have found anything and were wasting their time. As you see…they found nothing at all." The documents obtained by Rolling Stone, which include some newly-declassified files and others that are heavily redacted, include a 1968 report discussing funeral plans for Martin Luther King Jr which described it as a “racial situation”. “Sammy Davis Jr., Aretha Franklin…of this group, some have supported militant Black power concept…[performance at MLK memorial by these prominent entertainers] would provide emotional spark which could ignite racial disturbance in this area,” it reads. The FBI also included files “just in case”, such as her 1971 contract with Atlantic Records to attempt to connect the Blues Brothers star’s business dealings to the Black Panther Party. Letters and reports of death threats were among the collection of documents as well, including one from a man threatening to kill her and her family and another extortion attempt against her. With some documents indicating that there are additional materials in the FBI’s possession that haven’t been released, Rolling Stone requested these records be made available. The FBI has yet to comment on the report. Image: Getty Images

Legal

"This is how it's done": Big names speak out against Manly pride jersey boycott

Magda Szubanski and Jesinta Franklin have led the charge of celebrity voices condemning the Manly Sea Eagles and the players boycotting the pride jersey for a charity match. Jesinta, wife of AFL star Buddy Franklin, weighed in on the saga as she shared a photo of her husband wearing the Sydney Swans jersey in a match against St Kilda last month. She simply wrote, "This is how it's done," followed by a string of rainbow hearts. The image Jesinta shared showed the AFL players in their pride jerseys, along with the words "Everyone is welcome at the footy!" written over the rainbow pride flag. Magda Szubanski also spoke out over the controversy in a series of scathing tweets, questioning the foundation of the players religious beliefs that saw them boycott the jerseys in the first place. She declared the seven Sea Eagles players in question, who are boycotting their team’s Thursday night clash with the Roosters, were failing to show the tolerance demanded by their religion by refusing to wear a LGBTQI+ themed jersey. “Thought experiment: imagine if Manly players were asked to wear stripes to let religious players & fans know they are welcome,” she began. “Then imagine an atheist player refuses to wear the stripes coz their “belief” (based on fact) is that millions have been killed in the name of religion." “Religious tolerance doesn’t mean you condone or believe in the other’s religion. It means that you accept the right of difference to exist. That you support a world where people are not excluded or persecuted because of their religion. All we ask, is for the same courtesy." “You can’t force people to believe that homosexuality is not sinful." “But you can ask them to help make a tolerant society that accepts difference. Including their own.” Szubanski later posted bible verses which highlighted directions to show love and hospitality to “strangers” which further amplified her point of acceptable and tolerance. The series of tweets have racked up hundreds of likes, with many sharing how they could not understand why the Manly players were willing to sabotage their team's chance at securing a spot in the NRL finals over something as frivolous as a rainbow stripe. Image credits: Getty Images / Instagram

News

2021 Miles Franklin Award winner announced

Tasmanian author, Amanda Lohrey, has been awarded the 2021 Miles Franklin Literary Prize for her novel <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/the-labyrinth" target="_blank">The Labyrinth</a>, making her the second Tasmanian to win in the coveted award in its 64-year history. Set up in 1957, the Miles Franklin award was established after the death of the author, Miles Franklin, to recognise novels of literary merit that reflect Australian life. As Australia’s most significant literary prize, Lohrey has been awarded a $60,000 prize. “My husband calls it the Wimbledon of literary awards. It’s just an honour [to win],” Lohrey said. “There’s something nice about being associated with Miles Franklin; she was such a larrikin, such a non-conformist.” The judges praised Lohrey’s book as a “beautifully written reflection on the conflicts between parents and children, men and women, and the value and purpose of creative work”. The Labyrinth follows Erica Marsden, a hotel receptionist, as she moves from Sydney to coastal NSW to be closer to her mentally ill son in prison. While looking for a house to purchase, Erica has a dream imploring her to build a labyrinth - a mission which quickly becomes an obsession. Lohrey was shortlisted in the 1996 Miles Franklin for her novel, Camille’s Bread, and longlisted in 2005 for The Philosopher’s Doll. Image: Text Publishing

Books

Block-busting DIY tips from The Block’s Benny and Dave

For the seventh consecutive year, Kennards Hire is again the official hire company supplier of Channel Nine’s longest-running reality TV series, The Block. Now in its 16th season, five teams are busily transforming five family homes from five decades in the Melbourne bayside suburb of Brighton. As returning equipment hire sponsor, Kennards Hire introduced the five highly competitive couples to their new Kennards Hire man-on-the-ground, Ben McTaggart – affectionately known as “Benny from The Block”. And now, along with landscape specialist Dave Franklin, we can reveal the pair’s favourite backyard and frontyard DIY tips: <ol> <li> Timber deck restoration reminders</li> </ol> “When getting started on your restoration you need to first clean down the deck and assess any damage. Make sure all the nails are punched firmly down before firing up the <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/floor-sander.html">floor</a> sander to even out any chips or marks in the timber. Depending on how much work is needed, an <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.kennards.com.au/sander-orbital.html?trackParams=2441-1-1-100.00" target="_blank">orbital</a> sander is another useful option. Then it’s time to grab your preferred oil or stain and seal everything in to get your deck looking good as new.” <ol start="2"> <li> Outdoor ambience </li> </ol> “A sunken area with a fire pit, some cushion seating, candles and a hanging chair are great, simple ways to set the mood in an outdoor space. But the key to creating the perfect ambience in a backyard of any size is outdoor lighting, establishing a beautiful atmosphere that you can enjoy well into the night.” <ol start="3"> <li> Home pool excavating </li> </ol> “Pool excavating isn’t just for professionals, and with the right equipment is a fun job for DIYers looking to tackle a larger project. Before getting started you will need a permit, however once sorted use a <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.kennards.com.au/turf-cutter.html?trackParams=96474-1-1-100.00" target="_blank">turf cutter</a> to take up the turf and mark out the area of the pool. Make sure you check for any electrical or gas lines, before hopping on the <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.kennards.com.au/excavator-mini-1-8t1.html?trackParams=75-1-29-100" target="_blank">excavator</a> or bob cat to get digging.” <ol start="4"> <li> Equipment needed for a retaining wall</li> </ol> “To understand what you’re dealing with and the right equipment needed, first work out whether it’s going to be a sleeper or masonry wall. You will then need a <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MkJiAkSPCVU&feature=youtu.be" target="_blank">laser level</a> to establish the height, plus an excavator and <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.kennards.com.au/plate-compactor-60kg.html?trackParams=676-2-5-100" target="_blank">compacting plate</a>. But every job is different and it’s best you consult a Kennards Hire team member who can give you the right advice for the job.” <ol start="5"> <li> Finishing touches</li> </ol> “If you have any old pots laying about the backyard, you can wash them up and breath in new life with a fresh coat of paint. Finish off by spreading mulch around the garden and planting some natives. It’s a simple way to revitalise your outdoor space.”

Home Hints & Tips

Top DIY turf tips from The Block’s Dave Franklin

Since we find ourselves stuck on home turf more than we’d like to be, it’s time to put a silver lining around the cloud and get stuck into some DIY. One DIY task designed to get you outdoors is laying new turf - and The Block landscaper Dave Franklin has expert advice on how do it. Best of all, Kennards Hire’s contactless delivery and equipment hygiene measures mean you can still hire the equipment you need to lay turf like a professional. Preparing the soil With production of The Block on hold due to COVID-19, Dave says now’s the time for viewers to use the DIY skills they’ve learned from watching the show. And he believes turf laying is the perfect entry-level landscaping job. “We have apprentices in my landscaping business and if they can’t pick up laying turf in a day, then they probably aren’t going to make it as landscapers,” he says. When it comes to choosing the type of grass to use, Dave says it’s best to consult your local turf supplier. Because what works in Cairns is not going to work in Perth. “We have different turfs for different states, so the first thing to do is ring up your local turf supplier and listen to their advice,” he says. To make sure your turf starts out healthy, it needs clear, healthy soil. If grass is already growing, use a glyphosate product such as Round Up or Zero that kills it and makes it easier to remove. This also stops rogue grass and weeds from infiltrating the new lawn. Remove the weeds “You’ve got to get rid of those weeds,” Dave says. “You don’t want them returning once you’ve laid the turf.” Next, use your lawn mower at its lowest setting to scalp the lawn to its lowest point. Once this is done, the next task is to turn the soil. For this, it’s best to use the proper equipment. For soft, sandy soils, use a rotary tiller to turn the soil and aerate it. If the soil is a compacted clay, use a <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/lawn-rotary-hoe-hydraulic-petrol.html?trackParams=1853-1-1-100.00">rotary hoe</a>. A tough, walk-behind, petrol-powered hoe breaks up the most difficult clay or sod. Level out dips and bumps Once you’ve turned the soil over, use a manual rake to removes stones and debris. If you have major dips in the surface, fill these in with a <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/skid-steer-700-series.html?trackParams=249-7-8-98.21">skid steer</a> or <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/mini-loader.html?trackParams=249-4-3-99.04">mini loader</a>. If they are minor ones, you can use a shovel to fill them in – but you must fill them. “If you’re preparing the surface and you’ve got holes and dints in there you are going to end up with an uneven lawn,” Dave says. “So you have to make sure that your surface preparation is the best you can make it. When you buy the turf you usually get a lawn starter, which you should add to the soil.” At this point you might decide to use turf underlay. This is soil that contains a large proportion of sand as well as organic matter, and helps the turf take to its new home. Add 50–150mm, using the higher amount if you have a very compacted clay soil. Next, use the easy level rake to get the surface even, and flatten everything with a roller. You are now ready to lay the turf. At this point, you can add fertilisers and conditioners to the surface as recommended by your turf provider. This helps your turf take root in the early stages. Join the turf edges carefully If you have a sloping lawn, start at the bottom. Lay a perimeter of turf then fill in the centre, taking care not to leave any gaps. Use an overlapping pattern like brickwork, so that the joints are staggered. When you trim the turf rolls, keep the offcuts for filling in awkward spots later on. Dave says using sand to sew together the pieces of turf and making sure that each piece butts up against the next firmly is important to stitch the pieces together into a seamless lawn. Finally, water the turf and roller it to make sure the turf’s roots are pressed firmly into the soil. Rolling out the turf One big tip for beginners is to use a <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/lawn-roller-spike.html?trackParams=485-1-1-100.00">roller</a>. “I see all too many times people rolling out the turf and just kicking it in,” Dave says. “If you don’t roll the turf down there will be pockets and holes underneath where the roots aren’t in contact with the soil. That’s going to lead to problems.” Dave hopes to be back working on The Block soon, but in the meantime, he says DIY turf laying is not a bad way to spend the time for those of us at home. “It’s the perfect introduction to landscaping,” he says. “Anyone can give it a go.” Call your local Kennard Hire branch for advice on equipment hire to get your <a href="https://www.kennards.com.au/index.php/blog/How-to-Lay-Turf-Part-1-Soil-Preparation/">home turf</a> looking better than ever. This story was written by Dave Franklin.

Home & Garden

Aretha Franklin “had no will” despite her $109 million fortune

<a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/entertainment/music/world-reacts-to-aretha-franklin-s-death">She passed away last week</a> after a battle with pancreatic cancer at the age of 76, but it has been revealed that Aretha Franklin did not leave a will behind. Worth a staggering US$80 million (AU$109 million) at the time of her death, the Queen of Soul died "intestate," which means she had no legally binding will prior to her death on August 16, according to documents obtained by TMZ. "Aretha was ill for several years, but apparently did not see the end coming... or possibly a will was low on the priority list," reported TMZ. Kenneth Silver, from the Hertz Schram law firm in Michigan, told <a href="https://people.com/">People</a> that it's highly likely she left behind a number of assets. "I would expect that she has a house, probably a financial account of some kind – a brokerage account, stocks, bond, cash. She probably has investments of a wide variety, perhaps in real estate ventures, other businesses that she may own or have an interest in." Silver also speculated that Franklin may have copyrights to her songs and that of other artists, as well as a collection of personal property, such as "Grammys, gold records, memorabilia from Motown years and onward." According to Michigan law, where Franklin passed away, a deceased person's estate is to be equally divided among one's children. Franklin has four sons – Clarence, Edward Franklin, 61, Ted White Jr, 54, Kecalf Cunningham, 48. But as history shows us, non-immediate family members and possibly even friends may feel they deserve a share in Franklin’s estate. "My expectation is that as much will be done behind closed doors as possible. It is the objective of the survivors of any deceased, whether it be Aretha Franklin or John Smith, to handle affairs as simply and quickly as you can," Silver said. "If you can avoid court proceedings, you want to avoid court proceedings. Sometimes you just can't do that… "In my experience, the larger the estate, the more public the figure, the greater the likelihood that there is going to be an issue."

Legal

“Greatest of all time”: World reacts to Aretha Franklin’s death

Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin has died from advance pancreatic cancer at home in Detroit, aged 76. The music icon was surrounded by family and friends when she died at 9.50am on Thursday local time. “It is with deep and profound sadness that we announce the passing of Aretha Louise Franklin, the Queen of Soul,” her family said in a statement issued by her publicist. “In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. “We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds.” Her family thanked friends and supporters from all over the world for their prayers. “We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received,” the statement read. “We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.” The death of the legendary singer, known for such enduring hits as Respect (1967), Natural Woman (1968) and I Say a Little Prayer (1968), sparked an outpouring of love and tributes for the remarkable woman from around the world. Diana Ross said she was “sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin.” Smokey Robinson said in a statement: “This morning my longest friend in this world went home to be with our father. I will miss her so much but I know she’s at peace.” Barbra Streisand shared a photo of herself performing with Franklin in 2012, writing: “It’s difficult to conceive of a world without her. Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer, but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world.” John Legend tweeted: “Salute to the Queen. The greatest vocalist I’ve ever known.” Barack and Michelle Obama said in a statement: “Through her compositions and unmatched musicianship, Aretha helped define the American experience. In her voice, we could feel our history, all of it and in every shade-our power and our pain, our darkness and our light, our quest for redemption and our hard-won respect. “She helped us feel more connected to each other, more hopeful, more human. And sometimes she helped us just forget about everything else and dance.” <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> I’m sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin. — Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) <a href="https://twitter.com/DianaRoss/status/1030100713093967873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> I was fortunate enough to spend time with her and witness her last performance – a benefit for <a href="https://twitter.com/ejaf?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ejaf</a> at St John The Divine Cathedral. She was obviously unwell, and I wasn’t sure she could perform. But Aretha did and she raised the roof. — Elton John (@eltonofficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/eltonofficial/status/1030101482731962369?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> This photo was taken in 2012 when Aretha & I performed at a tribute celebration for our friend Marvin Hamlisch. It’s difficult to conceive of a world without her. Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer,but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world <a href="https://t.co/Px9zVB90MM">pic.twitter.com/Px9zVB90MM</a> — Barbra Streisand (@BarbraStreisand) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarbraStreisand/status/1030096939109556229?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> US President Donald Trump opened a Cabinet meeting at the White House today by expressing his “condolences to the family of a person I knew well”. He said Franklin “worked for me on numerous occasions,” and her “legacy will thrive and inspire” many generations. “She was terrific — Aretha Franklin — on her passing,” said the President, who also tweeted about the singer. “She’s brought joy to millions of lives and her extraordinary legacy will thrive and inspire many generations to come. She was given a great gift from God — her voice, and she used to well. People loved Aretha. She was a special woman. So just want to pass on my warmest best wishes and sympathies to her family.” Clive Davis, the music mogul who helped revive Franklin’s career in the 1980s, said he was “devastated” by her death. “She was truly one of a kind,” he said in a statement. “She was more than the Queen of Soul. She was a national treasure to be cherished by every generation throughout the world. “Apart from our long professional relationship, Aretha was my friend. Her loss is deeply profound and my heart is full of sadness.” Berry Gordy, founder of the Motown record label, said in a statement: “A national treasure to everyone. But to me personally, Aretha Franklin was my dear, dear friend, my homegirl, and I loved her a lot. “From seeing her as a baby singing and playing at the piano at her father’s home, to her giving a rousing performance at the White House, she has always been amazing. No matter how the music has changed over the years, she remained so relevant.” In her decades-long career that spanned multiple genres, Franklin’s powerful voice that stretched over four octaves defined her place in American music history. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Aretha helped define the American experience. In her voice, we could feel our history, all of it and in every shade—our power and our pain, our darkness and our light, our quest for redemption and our hard-won respect. May the Queen of Soul rest in eternal peace. <a href="https://t.co/bfASqKlLc5">pic.twitter.com/bfASqKlLc5</a> — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) <a href="https://twitter.com/BarackObama/status/1030129887623958538?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> What a life. What a legacy! So much love, respect and gratitude. R.I.P. <a href="https://twitter.com/ArethaFranklin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ArethaFranklin</a> <a href="https://t.co/400K1U5IHI">https://t.co/400K1U5IHI</a> — Carole King (@Carole_King) <a href="https://twitter.com/Carole_King/status/1030096175993475079?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> One of the highlights of my career was singing with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ArethaFranklin?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ArethaFranklin</a> at The Tony Awards. It was an out of body experience for me. One of greatest singers of all time. You will be missed by all. <a href="https://t.co/L8dIIhyR9Y">https://t.co/L8dIIhyR9Y</a> — Hugh Jackman (@RealHughJackman) <a href="https://twitter.com/RealHughJackman/status/1030098224156209153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> The choir of angels now have the greatest voice of all time to lead, praise and join in to sing before Jesus. I wanted to share this photo because it shows just how soulful Aretha was without uttering a word. To say I was humbled to be in her presence would be an understatement. <a href="https://t.co/R2lxjXwDO8">pic.twitter.com/R2lxjXwDO8</a> — Faith Hill (@FaithHill) <a href="https://twitter.com/FaithHill/status/1030110318826074112?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is dead. She was a great woman, with a wonderful gift from God, her voice. She will be missed! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1030116078125568006?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"> Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul <a href="https://t.co/jW4Gpwfdts">pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts</a> — Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) <a href="https://twitter.com/PaulMcCartney/status/1030103284881805312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 16, 2018</a></blockquote> Franklin was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. In 2010, Rolling Stone magazine named her the greatest singer of all time, male or female. The Hall of Fame issued a statement titled “Lady Soul”, which read: “The first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Aretha Franklin was an artist of passion, sophistication and command, whose recordings remain anthems that defined soul music. Long live the Queen.”

Music

Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin is “seriously ill”

Legendary singer Aretha Franklin is “seriously ill” and receiving hospice care in Detroit, Michigan, according to US media. “Aretha is surrounded by family and people close to her” in Detroit and “the family is asking for prayers and privacy”, reports <a href="http://www.showbiz411.com/2018/08/12/exclusive-aretha-franklin-queen-of-soul-gravely-ill-in-detroit-winner-of-18-grammy-awards">Showbiz 411</a>. The US Today show reporter Charles Croucher also shared an update on the singer’s health. "We know she's battled cancer since 2010 and struggled with health on numerous occasions recently. But it seems like things are in a bad state for the Queen of Soul. She is loved around the world... 18 Grammys and the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She performed on stage and on the big screen in movies as well, but it's that voice and that power that people remember so fondly," he said. The 76-year-old cancelled concerts earlier this year due to health concerns. She last performed at an event for Elton John's AIDS foundation in November 2017. “Aretha Franklin has been ordered by her doctor to stay off the road and rest completely for at least the next two months,” her management <a href="https://ew.com/music/2018/03/17/aretha-franklin-cancels-upcoming-concerts/">said in a statement</a> in March. Last year, the Queen of Soul said she was <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/2017/02/aretha-franklin-announces-retirement/">planning to retire from touring</a> following the release of her new album. At the time, she said she wanted to spend more time with her grandchildren. Showbiz 411 claims Franklin is battling cancer after being diagnosed in 2010. However, Franklin has previously denied that she has cancer. The 18-time Grammy winner did confirm that she underwent surgery for an unspecified health scare in 2010. “He (the doctor) said, ‘The surgery that you just had is going to add 15 to 20 more years to your life’,” Franklin told Access Hollywood. Franklin is widely considered one of the greatest vocalists of all time and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Some of music’s biggest stars, including Mariah Carey and Missy Elliott, tweeted their love and support to Franklin.

Music

Aretha Franklin breaks her silence about dramatic weight loss

Aretha Franklin has opened up about her drastic weight loss following a fake Twitter account recently announcing her death. “I’m doing well generally, all tests have come back good,” the singer told <a href="https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/aretha-franklin-responds-to-rumors-of-her-death-im-doing-well/" target="_blank">Us Weekly</a>. “I’ve lost a lot of weight due to side effects of medicine, it affects your weight … Thanxxxx for your concern.” Fans were shocked on Tuesday after a Twitter account falsely announced the 75-year-old Queen of Soul’s death. Franklin’s good friend and reporter Shaun Robinson addressed the rumours after the fake death hoax story was trending online. “Good Morning, Everyone. I just spoke to one of Ms. Franklin’s family friends in my hometown of Detroit,” Robinson tweeted. “They spoke to Aretha moments ago and asked me to tell you please don’t believe this news that was trending. Have a good day.” Earlier this year Franklin announced that she was <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/retirement-life/2017/02/aretha-franklin-announces-retirement/" target="_blank">retiring from music</a>. The iconic musician explained that she wanted to spend more time with her grandchildren before they went on to university. “This is what I’ve done all of my life,” she said. “I feel very, very enriched and satisfied with respect to where my career came from and where it is now." She revealed that she plans to stay active by opening a nightclub and doing “some select things”. “I'll be pretty much satisfied, but I'm not going to go anywhere and just sit down and do nothing. That wouldn't be good either.”

Music

Aretha Franklin’s drastic weight loss transformation will stun you

Aretha Franklin has taken to social media to reveal her dramatic weight loss transformation, and as you can see below the results speak for themselves. The 75-year-old singer, who is popular for hits like Respect and Say A Little Prayer, looked slimmer than ever in these photos posted on Instagram recently. <img width="498" height="440" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/40475/aretha-franklin-in-text-2_498x440.jpg" alt="Aretha -Franklin -In -Text -2"/> Image credit: Instagram / wolf_trap <img width="499" height="425" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/40476/aretha-franklin-in-text_499x425.jpg" alt="Aretha -Franklin -In -Text"/> Image credit: Instagram / upscalemagazine Franklin recently told a US TV station that this would be her last year performing, “I am retiring this year. I will be recording, but this will be my last year in concert. This is it.” What do you think of the transformation? What’s your favourite Aretha Franklin song? Let us know in the comments section below, we’d be keen to hear from you.

Music

Woolworths bans another Coca-Cola product

Woolworths will remove all but two of Mount Franklin water products from shelves. Woolworths has announced it will only stock the 20 and six-pack Mount Franklin products from August. The supermarket giant will also only stock the single Mount Franklin bottles at the front of stores. The remainder of the Mount Franklin range will be pulled from stores, a decision Woolworths claims is due to 20 per cent growth in bottled water sales. “Our customers are purchasing a wide variety of water options — both branded and non-branded — and as the category continues to increase in popularity, we will respond to meet our customers’ demands in the space,” a Woolworths spokesman said. Investors of Coca-Cola Amatil were impacted immediately by the news, with shares down to 2.9 per cent to $8.31 after the first half-hour of trade this morning. This announcement follows a string of bad news, with Woolworths confirming earlier this month <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/2017/07/woolworths-refuses-to-stock-new-coke/" target="_blank">it won’t stock the new Coca-Cola No Sugar</a>. Pizza giant Domino also initiated a supply contract with Coke’s rival, Pepsi.

News

6 great Australian writers you should read

Australia has produced some amazing authors over the years, from Miles Franklin to Tim Winton. Let’s take a look at some of the greatest Aussie writers of all time and the books you simply must read. Tim Winton Winton has been prolific in the Australian literature scene, producing 27 books and countless short stories. His honest and accessible writing style has made him an Australian treasure. Winton has also become quite an environmental activist, pushing for greater care of our beautiful landscape and marine life. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/cloudstreet-tim-winton/prod9780140273984.html" target="_blank">Cloudstreet</a> Miles Franklin We simply had to include Franklin on our list, as she is widely regarded as being responsible for much of what we think of today as Australian literature. Her 1901 novel My Brilliant Career established Franklin as an Aussie icon. Her legacy continues thanks to the Miles Franklin Award, a literary prize awarded every year since 1957. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/my-brilliant-career-miles-franklin/prod9780143105053.html" target="_blank">My Brilliant Career</a> Richard Flanagan Flanagan has had an illustrious career as not only an author but as a journalist, essayist and screenwriter. He has released 6 novels, starting with his 1994 debut Death of a River Guide which won two awards and was shortlisted for the Miles Franklin Prize. Flanagan is credited as a co-writer for the 2008 film Australia as well as the 1998 film adaptation of his novel The Sound of One Hand Clapping. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/the-sound-of-one-hand-clapping-richard-flanagan/prod9780857989208.html" target="_blank">The Sound of One Hand Clapping</a> Christos Tsiolkas Though he had success with early novels Loaded and Head On (which was turned into a movie starring Alex Dimitriades), Tsiolkas shot to fame in 2008 with The Slap, a novel about the repercussions one man experiences after publically slaps a friend’s son. The book won 4 awards and was adapted into a TV miniseries both in Australia and in the US. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/the-slap-christos-tsiolkas/prod9781741758207.html" target="_blank">The Slap</a> Colleen McCullough McCullough sadly passed away last year, but she has left behind a legacy of incredible work. She is well known for many individual novels as well as the Masters of Romeseries and the Carmine Delmonico series. Her book The Thorn Birds was exceptionally popular, having been adapted into a US TV miniseries featuring Barbara Stanwyck and Christopher Plummer. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/the-thorn-birds-colleen-mccullough/prod9780732282240.html" target="_blank">The Thorn Birds</a> Thomas Keneally Perhaps one of Australia’s most successful literary exports, 80-year-old Keneally famously penned Schindler’s Ark, which was adapted into Steven Spielberg’s Best Picture-winner Schindler’s List. His other works include The Chant of Jimmie Blacksmith, Confederates and The Playmaker. He has won the Miles Franklin award twice. Must-read: <a href="http://www.booktopia.com.au/schindler-s-ark-thomas-keneally/prod9780340936290.html" target="_blank">Schindler’s Ark</a> Who’s your favourite Australian author? Tell us in the comments below! Related links: <a href="/entertainment/books/2016/04/touching-lines-from-books/">20 most touching lines in literature</a> <a href="/entertainment/books/2016/03/best-crime-books/">5 crime books you need to read</a> <a href="/entertainment/books/2016/01/books-every-australian-should-read/">10 books every Australian should read</a>

Books

Franklin the sheepdog has roamed Canberra for three years

A mysterious shaggy stray dog named Franklin, who has roamed the streets of a small Canberra suburb for at least three years, has become a celebrity. The Maremma Sheepdog has apparently been freely walking the streets of Gungahlin for years, finding food from regularly gifted bones and treats by locals and a woman who feeds him on his daily visits to her house. The big white shaggy dog even has his own Facebook fan page, where locals frequently post sightings of the elusive canine. Franklin has been dubbed the “Ghost Dog” due to his snowy-white coat, sudden random appearances and elusiveness A group of locals who regularly interact with Franklin say he generally likes to keep to himself but wouldn’t hurt a fly. However, residents of the town are debating whether Franklin should be left alone or if he does need to be caught and re-homed. The RSPCA said they have not had any complaints about the welfare of the dog. Mark Scarborough, who started Franklin’s Facebook page after sighting him a few times three years ago, says Franklin was adopted from the pound by a family three years ago, but escaped when brought home. He was briefly recaptured, but ran away again and has been on the loose ever since. “The ACT Rangers have all but given up trying to catch Franklin as he is too elusive. Others have also tried without success,” said Scarborough. “We have discussed Franklin with RSPCA and they have advised that the best thing we can do is to leave Franklin alone.” While Scarborough is worried about Franklin’s health in the “wild”, he said he wasn’t sure forcing a roof over Franklin’s head was necessarily the answer. "People say he needs a home, but does he?” Scarborough says, “Does he need cuddles and pats and to sleep on a bed every night? Are we romanticising that? "From what I've seen of him, he does look happy." Scroll on the gallery above to catch a glimpse of Franklin's adeventures. To find out more, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/FranklinTheGungahlinMaremma/?fref=nf" target="_blank">visit Franklin's Facebook page here. </a> Related links: <a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/quotes-about-dogs/">10 quotes dog lovers will enjoy</a> <a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/10/portraits-of-dogs-young-to-old/">Then and now: portraits of dogs from puppyhood to old age</a> <a href="/lifestyle/pets/2015/09/dogs-can-spot-liars/">Dogs can spot liars and will disregard them</a>

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Aretha Franklin’s drastic weight loss transformation will stun you

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6 great Australian writers you should read

Franklin the sheepdog has roamed Canberra for three years

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