Names scholars whose research focuses on indigenous languages are encouraged to attend the “Symposium on American Indian Languages” (SAIL) on the 22nd of April, 2016, in Rochester, NY. The purpose of SAIL is to bring together scholars, educators, activists, and members of indigenous communities to discuss methods for documenting, conserving, and revitalizing Native American languages. Names scientists who would like to present their research are asked to send in abstracts by the 31st of January.
Another Name of the Year
At the 2016 Annual Conference of the American Name Society, Caitlyn Jenner was selected as the official 2015 Name of the Year. The ANS decision is made by a team of names specialists who deliberate over the cultural, linguistic, and historical significance of the onomastic nominees,
However, the ANS is not the only organization that bestows this onomastic title. The www.nameoftheyear.com organizers announced that “Amanda Miranda Panda” won a whopping 60.75% of internet users votes, as compared to its top contender “Infinite Grover”. This winner is crowned by popular vote from site visitors.
International Conference on Historical Lexicography and Lexicology (ICHLL), Bloomington, IN, July 12-15, 2016
From the 12th to the 15th of July 2016, the International Conference on Historical Lexicography and Lexicology (ICHLL) will take place in Bloomington, Indiana. The deadline for 500 word English-language abstracts is February 1, 2016.
In particular, the conference welcomes papers addressing problems associated with dates and dating and periods and periodization. In addition, the conference solicits abstracts that concern how chronology is re-conceived in the era of digitally-driven lexical research.
There are four plenaries planned for this event:
- Fred R. Shapiro (Yale University, dates and dating)
- Anne Curzan (University of Michigan, periods and periodizing)
- Mira Podhajecka (University of Opole, theories of history)
- Sarah Ogilvie (Stanford University, digital chronologies)
Top Wacky Dog Names of 2015
Following the top wacky cat names for 2015, here are some of the Nationwide Pet Insurance’s eclectic onomastic winners for the canine members of the family.
In first place is “Baron von Furrypants”. Taking second, third, and fourth place are “Artoo Dogtoo”, “Rosie Picklebottom” and “Parker the Barker”. Finally, the fifth prize was awarded to “Abigail Carmichael Spartacus”.
A fish called Tim Winton: scientists name new species after novelist
Australian author Tim Winton has received several national and international awards for his literary scholarship. Along with being shortlisted for the coveted Man Booker Prize, he has received the prestigious Miles Franklin Award and the Centenary Medal for service to the literature.
At the start of 2016, Mr. Winton was able to add another rather unusual accolade to his long-list of accomplishments: a newly identified species of fish will now carry the Western Australian writer’s personal name. According to the Guardian, wildlife specialists involved in the onomastic project selected Winton for this honorific to recognize his continuing efforts to protect aquatic flora and fauna Down Under.
2015 Name of Year Winner and Nominee Recap
Dr. Cleveland Evans writes about names for the Omaha World-Herald. This week’s column recaps the 2015 Name of the Year vote.… Read More
Yosemite Changing the Names of Popular Park Landmarks Following Trademark Dispute
Yosemite is changing the names of iconic and historic places. Read more about the trademark dispute that led to these changes.
In depth look at the 2015 Name of the Year
In this article for the Huffington Post, Mallory Moss shares additional information about the name Caitlyn and Caitlyn Jenner’s choice to use it.… Read More
Bowie Street sign ch-ch-changed to honor David Bowie in Downtown Austin
In memory of David Bowie, a fan (presumably) altered an Austin street sign, changing it from Bowie Street to David Bowie Street. Although unsanctioned, officials have agreed to leave the sign for now. There is a change.org petition to make this change permanent.
Name of the Year 2015 Press
The 2015 Name of the Year picks up additional press. Check out the article in Voice of America and the article in Gay Star News.… Read More