When James Martin was born, doctors told his parents that he might never speak. However, he did not only learn to speak, but 31 years later, on his birthday, he walked on Hollywood’s biggest stage to collect his Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film, An Irish Goodbye. James became the first actor with Down syndrome to win an Academy Award. And, as icing on the cake, the entire audience sang “Happy Birthday” to him.
James Martin never let his condition hold him back.
James Martin’s father, Ivan Martin, is very proud of his son and revealed that he does everything with great gusto, and he’s very glad that his efforts have paid off.
“He has spent his life pushing the envelope. People are very good at saying, ’You can’t do this, and you can’t do that’… He’s done it, and he does it consistently,” he said.
Martin is the first person with Down syndrome to win not just a BAFTA but an Oscar too, and he’s very proud of himself. “It doesn’t matter if you have Down syndrome, as long as you’re doing what you do. I do what I can to be funny,” he said.
His girlfriend also supports him and says the win was a magical moment. “It shows to everyone that it’s changing your mindset on how people with disabilities can achieve as much as everyone else can,” she declared.
For the past 10 years, Martin has been working at Starbucks.
His co-workers and manager at Starbucks are very proud of Martin and his acting success, and to support him, good-luck posters were placed in the coffee chain’s city stores.
However, Martin’s dad revealed that despite the fame, he doesn’t see his son quitting his job as a barista anytime soon.
Martin caught the acting bug after he joined the Belfast-based Babosh theatre company for children with learning disabilities.
There, Martin did all types of shows, and he enjoyed every moment spent there. This was a stepping stone for him, as he later managed to land the lead role in Ups and Downs, starring alongside actress Susan Lynch.
Martin then went on to land a role in the series, Marcella, but his role in An Irish Goodbye, which won him both a BAFTA and an Oscar, is his most high-profile role to date.
Preview photo credit MICHAEL TRAN/AFP/East News, An Irish Goodbye / First Flights and co-producers
You Won’t Believe What Your Kitchen’s Pull-Out Cutting Board Was Actually Intended For!
The Evolution of Cutting Boards
If you’re like most homeowners, you probably have a cutting board in your kitchen. This essential tool has been used for centuries, originally designed for breadmaking. Pull-out cutting boards provided a clean, stable surface for bakers to knead dough, let it rise, and prepare it for the oven.
Modern Uses of Cutting Boards
Today, cutting boards serve many purposes beyond breadmaking. They are indispensable for chopping, slicing, and dicing meats, vegetables, and fruits. Made from various materials like plastic, bamboo, and wood, cutting boards are crucial in any kitchen. However, wood cutting boards, especially those made from maple, are considered the best for several reasons.
The Benefits of Maple Cutting Boards
Maple is a hard, durable wood that withstands frequent use and knife cuts. It resists bacteria growth better than plastic or bamboo, which can develop grooves and scratches that harbor bacteria. Maple cutting boards are also easier to maintain.
Maintaining Your Cutting Board
Proper cleaning is vital for your cutting board’s longevity. After each use, scrub it with a mixture of baking soda or kosher salt and lemon to remove stains and odors. Rinse thoroughly with hot water and dry with a clean towel. Applying a food-grade cutting board oil keeps the wood from drying out and prevents crackin
Cutting Boards: A Kitchen Essential
Despite their evolution, cutting boards remain essential for home cooks and professional chefs. With proper care and maintenance, a quality cutting board can last for years, providing a clean, safe surface for food preparation.
Explore Breadmaking at Home
If you’re interested in breadmaking, try making your own bread at home. The rise of home baking during the pandemic has led many to discover the joy of homemade bread. Numerous recipes and tutorials are available online, including on the popular YouTube channel “Becca Beach.”
Discover Becca Beach’s Breadmaking Tips
Becca Beach, a passionate home cook and baker, shares her recipes and cooking tips with her followers. In her video “Homemade Bread – SUPER Easy and Delicious!” she demonstrates how to make a simple loaf at home.
The Benefits of Homemade Bread
Making your own bread is fun and rewarding, and it’s healthier and more economical than buying store-bought bread. You can control the ingredients, ensuring your bread is free from preservatives and additives.
Cutting Boards and Culinary Adventures
Cutting boards have evolved from their original breadmaking purpose to become kitchen essentials made from various materials for multiple uses. Proper cleaning and maintenance ensure their longevity and safety. If you’re looking for a new culinary adventure, try making your own bread at home. With online tutorials and a quality cutting board, you can become a breadmaking expert in no time!
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