Started reading: The New Censorship by Ayala Panievsky 📚

My notes from a fascinating but worrying talk between Emily Maitlis and my colleague Dr Ayala Panievsky about how populist politicians manipulate media to shift the conversation in their direction – and what journalists can do about it.

Worrying stuff, but with some hope.

Two women are engaged in conversation at a seated event, with books titled The New Censorship on a table between them.

24 years ago, I started blogging.

That’s nearly a quarter of a century.

It will be one of the defining activities of my life. And I’’d never have predicted that back in 2001.

Another rat ogre done and dusted, yesyes.

Basing time.

#warhammer

A detailed miniature figure of a fearsome, armored rat-like creature wielding a futuristic weapon stands on a painted base.A detailed miniature model of a mechanical, rat-like creature with intricate steampunk elements and a green cloak is mounted on a circular base.A detailed model of a mutant creature with mechanical elements and a large weapon stands in a dynamic pose against a blurred background.

IT BEGINS

A collection of small evergreen trees is arranged outdoors near a brick building, with various potted plants and gardening supplies in the background.

Weekend treat.

A plate containing poached eggs, sausages, bacon, and a toasted bagel.

It was a rainy Hallowe’en in old London Town last night.

2001: the year blogging changed the world – but it would be decades before we realised how much.

And I’m no longer as sure as I was that it was a good thing.

Meanwhile, my eldest is raiding my badge collection from the 70s/80s.

A collection of vintage pins and badges featuring various designs and logos is displayed on a wooden surface.

Doing some half-term Hallowe’en crafts…

A painted wooden cauldron with a grinning face and a wooden pumpkin are displayed on a table with paint supplies.