Five things you need to know today
Nobel Prize in Physics
Geoffrey Hinton, who is a former PhD student at the University of Edinburgh from 1978, has been awarded a Nobel Prize for Physics for his work on AI or machine learning. Known as the Godfather of AI he shares the prize with Professor John Hopfield of Princeton University.
Professor Hinton is now retired and is Professor Emeritus at the University of Toronto in Canada. He joins a list of 20 Nobel laureates who are connected to the university as former students, faculty members or researchers.
Professor Helen Hastie, Head of School of Informatics, said: “Geoffrey Hinton’s Nobel Prize celebrates the transformative power of artificial intelligence, solidifying the University of Edinburgh’s legacy as a crucible for pioneering minds and groundbreaking research.”
Professor Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh, said: “I am delighted at the news that Professor Geoffrey Hinton has been awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics, and I congratulate him on behalf of the University for this remarkable achievement. The significance of his contributions to the field of artificial intelligence cannot be overstated, and it is tremendous that his groundbreaking work is being recognised at the very highest level.”
Morningside Community Council
At Morningside Community Council’s meeting on 16 October ), Stephen Lovejoy, a senior planner from The City of Edinburgh Council, will deliver a presentation on Local Place Plans.
The Secretary of the Community Council explained: “This is an opportunity to understand the context and value of a Local Place Plan in protecting the places and buildings that we cherish in our neighbourhood.
“Morningside Community Council has agreed to produce a Local Place Plan. After the presentation, we hope you can participate in a discussion as to how we can all move forward in positive ways that mutually support and strengthen our community.
“Already, Friends of the Midmar Paddock are looking for volunteers to help develop a Local Place Plan for the Paddock, as they are very concerned about the recent sale of the Paddock. If you wish to volunteer, please contact savemidmarpaddock@gmail.com
“Astley Ainslie Community Trust is also considering a Local Place Plan for Astley Ainslie.”
Fringe boss steps aside
Shona McCarthy who has been Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society for nine years has announced she will step down in spring next year.
During her time in Edinburgh the Irishwoman managed to secure £7 million from the UK Government – the largest financial support ever from Westminster – to renovate the building on Infirmary Street which the Society is to lease from the council.
Phoebe Waller-Bridge, honorary President of the Fringe Society, said:”You could not imagine a more passionate, determined, ambitious, hilarious, fiercely optimistic leader of the Fringe. After years working to build and expand the Fringe in every way for everyone, facing unimaginable setbacks and challenges, Shona’s eyes never stopped shining with genuine excitement for every new show she told you about. She held the Fringe together through its most challenging years and guided it to its record-breaking peak. She is one in a billion. I am personally devastated that she is leaving, but equally thrilled that she can take a well-earned rest knowing that she has raised more money, staged more shows, convinced more people of the importance and vibrancy of the Fringe than should be humanly possible. Thank you, Shona. We owe you so much and will miss you like crazy.”
Outgoing Chief Executive, Shona McCarthy, said: ‘It has been an enormous privilege to serve the Edinburgh Fringe, I love this phenomenal festival and will forever be an advocate and champion. I have worked with some of the best people in our sector, a committed and passionate team, and brilliant Board members led by our Chair Benny Higgins and his predecessor Tim O’Shea.
“In my remaining time with the Fringe Society I will be relentless in continued work with all to ensure our charity is in its best shape to continue to support this globally exceptional festival and performing arts expo, and I will work closely with the city, Scottish Government and UK Government to encourage more supportive conditions for this national and international cultural asset that is delivered every year in Scotland’s beautiful capital and is part of the fabric of Edinburgh.”
Fresh Start looking for donations
The charity which helps people make a home for themselves is collecting essentials like crockery and cutlery, glasses, tea towels and mugs to help families or individuals create a home of their own. If you have any of these items – in good condition – then drop them off at 22-24 Ferry Road Drive EH4 4BR. Donation hours are Monday to Thursday 9am to 4pm and Friday 9am to 1pm.
https://www.freshstartweb.org.uk
Jupiter Artland this winter
The art park at Jupiter Artland may be closed for the winter but there will be dining at Café Party to keep visitors entertained from 25 October onwards.
The weekend can now begin on a Friday with newspapers, a bloody mary and brunch, lunch and Sunday lunch. Visitors can only gain entry to the park with a booking for lunch.
There is also the opportunity to see a new installation by Kialy Tihngang in the steadings.
