The Red Scarf: A Country Boy's Southern Christmas Story

29 Nov 2007 19:08 Africa/Lagos


A Country Boy's Southern Christmas Story

EL DORADO, Ark., Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ --

The Red Scarf (August House, Oct. 2007), a debut novel by Richard Mason, is poised to become a Christmas favorite for all ages. Inspired by Mason's childhood in 1940s rural Arkansas, it reminds readers of the joy found in selfless gift-giving.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071129/CLTH079 )


The Red Scarf (www.theredscarfbook.com) follows the adventures of a twelve-year-old boy with a big dream: to buy a $15.00 red scarf for the prettiest girl in his 7th grade class for Christmas. In 1944 Arkansas, that was a huge undertaking. Richard chases those $15.00 with all the passion of a young boy coming of age, encountering swamps, skunks and robbers. The story concludes when Richard and his friend Uncle Hugh -- an elderly descendant of slaves -- share a very special Christmas Eve, marked by a memorable exchange of gifts.


Inspired by the author's life, this cross-generational novel treats you to a cast of unforgettable, and real, characters who populated Mason's hometown in Norphlet, Arkansas. They include: Wing, a one-armed constable who wields a mean billy club; his brother, Peg, a one-legged owner of the local pool hall; and Doc, the old storekeeper who never met a penny that he wouldn't pinch.


As a young boy Mason lived on a small farm in Southern Arkansas, where his interaction with life in the woods, swamps and unique townspeople made for a stimulating childhood of his own creation. His writings reflect a special time of brown sunburned feet, shirtless summers and very special country Christmases.


Mason started writing his memories in the deserts of Libya where he worked as a geologist. Today he is Chairman and CEO of Gibraltar Energy, has one of the largest collections of antique Southern maps, and was a three-term president of the Arkansas Wildlife Federation. He and his wife, Vertis, restored 17 historic buildings in their hometown of El Dorado, which has been designated one of the top 15 Main Street communities in the country by the National Main Street Organization.


A portion of the proceeds from the launch of The Red Scarf (www.theredscarfbook.com) were donated to the Red Scarf Project of the Orphan Foundation of America (www.orphan.org). The project assists foster children with higher education. The Masons are the adoptive parents of two adult children.


For tour and media events visit http://www.booktour.com/author/richard_mason.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071129/CLTH079
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Richard Mason

CONTACT: Mimi Schroeder, APR, +1-404-447-6242, mimi@maxbookpr.com


Web site: http://www.theredscarfbook.com/
http://www.orphan.org/
http://www.booktour.com/author/richard_mason

Alfred Angelo Knit Bridesmaids Collection - The Bridesmaids Dress You'll Want to Wear Again and Again

29 Nov 2007 11:07 Africa/Lagos


Alfred Angelo Knit Bridesmaids Collection - The Bridesmaids Dress You'll Want to Wear Again and Again

PHILADELPHIA, Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ --

Do you ever wonder why you still hold on to your bridesmaids dress?


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071129/NYFNSG02 )


Is it because somewhere deep inside, you hope to have an occasion to wear that beautiful dress again and look as lovely as you did that day? Perhaps, but that day never comes. Because in the end, even with the best intentions, a bridesmaid dress outside of a wedding always looks like, well, a bridesmaid dress ... until now!


Alfred Angelo unveils its latest collection of bridesmaid's dresses, the Knit Collection. Short and sassy or long and lean, made of ultra flattering knit jersey fabrics, this IS the bridesmaid dress you'll wear well beyond the wedding.


The new knits feature six versatile bridesmaid dress silhouettes, answering an increasing desire for bridesmaids to find a dress that is wedding appropriate, yet fashionable and wearable long after the wedding "I Do's" are said. More importantly, the fabric moves with a woman's body, and the supple knit jersey is smooth to the touch, adding an extra level of comfort not seen before in a bridesmaid collection.


"The fabric drapes beautifully and really flatters every body type," says designer Michael Shettel. "The combination of a unique fabric and trendy styling means these dresses truly can be worn again and again. Whether to a summer cocktail party, fancy dinner out, or next year's Holiday parties, they're that exceptional."


The collection is also the perfect choice for destination weddings. The jersey fabric packs beautifully, with minimal wrinkling during long flights, and is light weight, making for easy traveling to far away locales.


The new knit collection is available in nine beautiful colors: azure, midnight sky, scarlet, olive, azalea, chocolate, deep apple, lilac, and black, in sizes 2-28W to fit everyone in the party. The collection will be available in over 1000 bridal boutiques nationwide, as well as 37 Alfred Angelo company- owned boutiques, beginning February 2008.


To view all of the 2008 Alfred Angelo collections, find a location nearest you, and view the latest happenings in your area, log on to http://www.alfredangeloatores.com/.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071129/NYFNSG02
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Alfred Angelo

CONTACT: Amanda Sheronas, Director of Public Relations of Alfred Angelo,
Office, +1-267-948-1160, Cell, +1-213-952-8746,
asheronas@alfredangelo.com


Web site: http://www.alfredangelo.com/
http://www.alfredangeloatores.com/

Natasha Talks Accessories: A Teen's Guide to Fashion, Clothes, Jewelry and Makeup

29 Nov 2007 11:06 Africa/Lagos


Natasha Talks Accessories: A Teen's Guide to Fashion, Clothes, Jewelry and Makeup

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 29 /PRNewswire/ --

The easiest way to change your look is through accessories, says Natasha Darras, 16, a rising star on the high school golf circuit in southern California.


"When it comes to fashion, clothes, jewelry and make up, shop inexpensive places and splurge only on important pieces," Natasha says. "I only buy expensive things that I can wear and use for a long time."


Natasha offers some inexpensive ways to update a wardrobe for minimal cost and maximum value.


-- Add scarves. You can wear them on your head, around your neck and
they look great.
-- One quick and easy look that really works is layering your jewelry.
Bargains I find in vintage and thrift stores are my prettiest pieces
and long necklaces look great layered.
-- When wearing short necklaces, just wear one at a time.
-- If you wear a uniform, dress it up with accessories and make sure you
don't break the dress code.



"Makeup has been a hurdle for me," says Natasha. "I think it is really important even though some of my friends don't wear it. They think it takes too much time. Since I like my look to be natural and light, applying just a little can make a big difference and it doesn't take any time at all."


Natasha has learned that buying makeup at the drug store is the best value. Expensive makeup never worked any better for her and the long-lasting lipstick is much cheaper too. Because she likes to experiment, it makes sense to buy 2 or 3 shadows for a few dollars.


She says mascara all works about the same, so she suggests that you save your money and get it at the drugstore too.


"My skin is more normal than perfect. Since I really have to work to have good skin, I spend more and buy the bare mineral type of cover up, base, foundation or powder," says Natasha. "When I use that as a barrier, it keeps my skin from reacting to other products and it allows me to have good looking skin without spending a fortune."


Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Natasha Darras http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=69897


Source: Natasha Darras

CONTACT: Robin Nolan of McDavid Public Relations, robin@mcdavidpr.com,
for Natasha Darras


NOTE TO EDITORS: Natasha available for interviews.

BLACK ENTERPRISE Magazine Unveils Its 2007 Hot List: America's Most Powerful Players Under 40

26 Nov 2007 20:06 Africa/Lagos

BLACK ENTERPRISE Magazine Unveils Its 2007 Hot List: America's Most Powerful Players Under 40

December issue hits newsstands with five exclusive, consecutive covers: LeBron James, Chris Brown and Kirk Franklin, Queen Latifah, Wyclef Jean and John Legend, and Venus Williams

NEW YORK, Nov. 26 /PRNewswire/ --

BLACK ENTERPRISE (BE) today unveiled its 2007 HOT LIST: America's Most Powerful Players Under 40 as featured in the December issue.


High Resolution photograph


For the very first time, BE hits newsstands with five exclusive, consecutive covers, a first in the magazine's 37-year history. The groundbreaking covers feature NBA superstar LeBron James, Pop/R&B phenomenon Chris Brown with gospel powerhouse Kirk Franklin, hip-hop star/entrepreneur Queen Latifah, platinum chart-toppers Wyclef Jean and John Legend, and tennis ace turned fashionista Venus Williams.


The BE Hot List is comprised of ultimate achievers under the age of 40 in media, music, entertainment, and sports. "These celebrities have shrewdly leveraged their fame to build multimillion-dollar empires that will sustain them beyond their careers in sports and entertainment," says be Editor-at- Large Carolyn Brown. "Plus, this year's list goes outside the box to include business executives, top-ranked money managers, and medical researchers whose impact on our world is undeniable."


The 2007 HOT LIST: America's Most Powerful Players Under 40:

DeAnna Allen, 39, Partner, Dickstein Shapiro L.L.P.
Tyra Banks, 34, TV Producer, Bankable Productions
Mary J. Blige, 36, Singer
Chris Brown, 18, Singer, Actor
Nana Boateng, 30, Designer
Kawanna Brown, 34, Chief Operating Officer, Magic Johnson Cos.
Nick Cannon, 27, Actor, TV Producer
Edwidge Danticat, 38, Author, Brother I'm Dying
Adrian M. Fenty, 37, Mayor, District of Columbia
Shawn "Jay-Z" Carter, 37, Rapper, President & CEO, Def Jam
Susan Chapman, 39, Global Head of Operations, Citi Realty Services
Sean "Diddy" Combs, 37, Rapper, CEO, Music/TV Producer, Bad Boy Worldwide
Entertainment Group
T. Troy Dixon, 36, Managing Director, Deutsche Bank Securities
Rosalyn Durant, 31, Vice President, Programming & Acquisitions, ESPN
Chinedu U. Echeruo, 34, Founder, CEO, Hopstop.com
Lisa Ellis, 37, Executive Vice President, Sony Music Label Group
Kirk Franklin, 37, Singer
Amy Ellis-Simon, 35, Managing Director, Head, Multiproduct Sales &
Emerging Client Coverage, Merrill Lynch
Njema Frazier, 37, Physicist, National Nuclear Security Administration
Sean "The Pen" Garrett, 29, Songwriter, Music Producer
Magnus Greaves, 33, Founder, Doubledown Media
Richard C. Gay, 39, Senior Vice President, Strategy & Business Operations,
VH1 & CMT
Tracy Green, 36, Associate Executive Director, Finance Department,
Bellevue Hospital Center
Thierry Henry, 30, Professional Athlete
Floyd Nathaniel "Danja" Hills, 26, Music Producer
Lewis Hamilton, 22, Professional Athlete, Formula One race driver
Mellody Hobson, 38, President, Ariel Capital Management L.L.C.
Barrington Irving, 24, Aviator
Curtis "50 Cent" Jackson, 32, Rapper
Paulianda Jones, M.D., 28, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Vanderbilt
University School of Medicine
Alicia Keys, 26, Singer, Songwriter, Actress
Melanie Kinchen, M.D., 38, Medical Director, Orthopaedic Surgeon,
Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital Spine Center
Ronald Holt, Jr., 39, President & CEO, Hansberger Global Investors Inc.
Charles King, 38, Senior Vice President, Agent, William Morris Agency
Beyonce Knowles, 26, Singer, Actress
Kimora Lee Simmons, 32, Creative Director, Phat Fashions L.L.C.
Phil Ivey, 31, Professional Poker Player
Kevin Liles, 39, Executive Vice President, Warner Music Group
Treena Livingston Arinzeh, 37, Biomedical Engineer, New Jersey Institute
of Technology
Vanessa Morrison, 38, President, Twentieth Century Fox Animation
LeBron James, 22, Professional Athlete, Cleveland Cavaliers
Tim "Timbaland" Mosley, 36, Music Producer
Andrea Nelson Meigs, 39, Talent Agent, International Creative Management
Wyclef Jean, 35, Rapper, Music Producer
Will Packer, 33, and Rob Hardy, 35, Film Producers; Director, Rainforest
Films
Steve Pamon, 37, Senior Vice President, Digital Distribution & Strategic
Partnerships, Home Box Office
Brian Parker, 32, Vice President of Emerging Markets & New Business
Development, Choice Hotels International
Tyler Perry, 38, Playwright, Actor, Screenwriter, CEO, Tyler Perry Studios
John Legend, 29, Singer
Dana "Queen Latifah" Owens, 37, Singer, Actress
Lisa Pickrum, 37, Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, RLJ
Cos.
Usher Raymond IV, 29, Singer, Actor
Shonda Rhimes, 37, TV Producer, Writer, Director, Grey's Anatomy
Marcus Samuelsson, 37, Co-Owner, Aquavit
Will Smith, 39, Actor, Film Producer
Window Snyder, 32, "Chief Security Something or Other," Mozilla
Steve Stoute, 37, Founder, Chairman, Translation Consultation & Brand
Imaging
LaDainian Tomlinson, 28, Professional Athlete, San Diego Chargers
Kara Walker, 38, Artist, Kara Walker: My Complement, My Enemy, My
Oppressor, My Love
Shane and Shawn Ward, 34, President & Co-Founder; Creative Director & Co-
Founder, Detny footwear by SHANE&SHAWN
Kanye West, 30, Music Producer, Rapper
Stevie Williams, 28, Professional Athlete, Skateboarding
Venus Williams, 27, Professional Athlete, Tennis
Kehinde Wiley, 30, Artist, Recognize! Hip Hop and Contemporary Portraiture
Eldrick "Tiger" Woods, 32, Professional Athlete, Golf


BLACK ENTERPRISE, your ultimate source for wealth creation, is the premier business, investing, and wealth-building resource for African Americans. Since 1970, BE has provided essential business information and advice to professionals, corporate executives, entrepreneurs, and decision makers. Every month, BLACK ENTERPRISE magazine provides 3.9 million readers with information on entrepreneurship, careers, and financial management. A multimedia company, BE also produces radio and television programming, business and lifestyle events, Web content, and digital media. BLACK ENTERPRISE is the definitive source of information for and about African American business markets and leaders, and the authority on black business news and trends.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071126/NYM106
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: BLACK ENTERPRISE

CONTACT: Andrew Wadium of BLACK ENTERPRISE, +1-212-886-9598,
wadiuma@blackenterprise.com


Web site: http://www.blackenterprise.com/

Photo:
BLACK ENTERPRISE MAGAZINE UNVEILS ITS 2007 HOT LIST: AMERICA'S MOST POWERFUL PLAYERS UNDER 40. December issue hits newsstands with five exclusive, consecutive covers: LeBron James (shown), Chris Brown and Kirk Franklin, Queen Latifah, Wyclef Jean and John Legend, and Venus Williams.

Paris city hall switches on the Christmas lights

Paris city hall switches on the Christmas lights

The Christmas season officially opened in Paris, as city hall switched on the Christmas lights on the famous Champs Elysees avenue. Images of celebrities -- including singer and actress Vanessa Paradis and Paris mayor Bertrand Delanoe -- and of the lights.

UNIFEM and Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman Launch Internet Campaign on Ending Violence against Women

“I am committed to educating myself further by travelling with Noeleen to meet with women, hear their stories and understand first-hand the issues they face. ... I am especially interested in helping to give visibility to the pandemic of violence against women. UNIFEM manages a UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women, and as I travel, I will be visiting many of the projects to see the effective strategies that have been put in place.”
—Nicole Kidman


26 Nov 2007 17:00 Africa/Lagos


UNIFEM and Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman Launch Internet Campaign on Ending Violence against Women

NEW YORK, Nov. 26 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

United Nations -- The United Nations Development Fund for Women, UNIFEM, its Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman, and a large number of partners launched an Internet campaign on ending violence against women today. Titled, "Say NO to Violence against Women," the campaign invites people to add their names to a "virtual" book on a web site that has been developed specifically for this purpose: www.saynotoviolence.org. Urging hundreds of thousands -- even millions -- of people around the world to participate, the campaign aims to send a strong message to decision-makers to place ending violence against women high on the global agenda



"Violence against women is an appalling human rights violation," said UNIFEM Goodwill Ambassador Nicole Kidman. "But it is not inevitable. We can put a stop to this. The more names we collect, the stronger our case to make ending violence against women a top priority for governments everywhere. This is why I was the first to sign my name."


Statistics indicate that as many as one in three women will experience violence in her lifetime. Too often, this violence occurs with impunity for perpetrators and inadequate access to support for survivors. UNIFEM has been a leading advocate for decisive action to address the multiple manifestations of gender-based violence -- whether it be domestic violence, human trafficking or systematic rape in conflict zones. The task continues, however, to be an uphill battle, as fear and shame prevent many women from speaking out.


Nicole Kidman in Kosovo

Joanne Sandler, acting UNIFEM Executive Director, said: "The momentum to address violence against women is increasing. At least 89 countries, for example, have legislative provisions on domestic violence by now. But implementation of these laws is often insufficient due to a lack of political will, capacity and resources. As long as violence is pervasive and women do not dare to accuse their abusers, the issue needs to be much more prominent in public debate."


UNIFEM's Internet campaign is a gateway to information on violence against women, including pointing out ways to get involved. Since resources are critical to tackling the issue, it also highlights the UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women, through which initiatives in developing countries have received much-needed support, in particular to advance the implementation of laws and policies.


Major civil society organizations representing millions of members, such as World YWCA, Zonta International and the White Ribbon Campaign have come on board as launch partners, as have private sector companies like Avon, and UN partners such as UNICEF.


The campaign will run until 8 March 2008, International Women's Day. It was developed on a pro bono basis by London-based advertising agency Leo Burnett, with additional pro bono support by companies arc, sky, vividas, tsunami, ITN source, MPC, and wave.


Source: UNIFEM

CONTACT: Nanette Braun, +1-212-906-6829, nanette.braun@unifem.org, or
Letitia Anderson, +1-212-906-6506, letitia.anderson@unifem.org, both of
UNIFEM


Web site: http://www.unifem.org/
http://www.saynotoviolence.org/

Hygiene and Romance With Campus Babes and others Who Share Compound Toilets

Hygiene and Romance With Campus Babes and others Who Share Compound Toilets

When you see these campus girls and younger women living in the hostels on campus in Nigerian colleges or universities, you would be fooled by their dazzling looks and chic fashion and before you know it, you would have been hooked at first sight. But please, before you rush her into bed, think twice.

When you visited her on campus, did you see the toilet?
Did you know how many of them are sharing the toilet?
Were you able to breathe well while passing by the toilet?

Most girls and women have the habit of hiding their infections and medical history from their boyfriends and suitors until they have lured and seduced them into relationships.
How evil and wicked they could be?

Now, visit the toilets in the male hostels?
These same boys and young men are often the regular lovers of the same girls and young women on campus.
Please, inspect their toilets, because the toilets in the female hostels are not cleaner than the toilets in the male hostels.

The same campus guys who can sleep with anything in skirts and pants in their careless and reckless lust for sex will be seen posing and posturing to be cool while contracting and infecting their campus girlfriends with STDs and even AIDS.

Many campus guys sleep with prostitutes in town and return to also sleep with their campus girlfriends and then campus girlfriends will sleep with their senior boyfriends, big boys, Aristos or Sugar Daddies and these careless and reckless men will now go and sleep with their senior babes, mistresses or wives and the vicious circle of sexual epidemic continues.

Then finally, inspect the toilets of the girls and young women living in tenements in the town or city before rushing to dip your careless and reckless Long John into the vagina.


Yes, Mr. Romantic, before you kiss her hand or foot, think twice or even thrice, about the hygiene.

Does she wash her hands and feet after urinating?
Does she use her hands to wipe sweat off her face and clean her nose?
The same hands you rush to kiss in your careless and reckless lust for sex.

What does she do with those her hands behind your back when you are not looking?

Hygiene is necessary before dating anyone.

The cleanliness and sanitation of the residence, must be confirmed before you rush into bed

Being dirty and filthy shows the true character of your personality.

Lagos is dirty, because Lagosians are dirty.
Kano is very dirty, because the residents are very dirty.
Aba is dirty, because the residents are quite dirty and filthy.

The Nigerian writer, Dilibe Onyemma said that he would politely reject fellow Nigerians from renting his apartments in the UK, because of their well-known dirty and filthy habits.

The UN is so concerned that there is a global campaign for the promotion of sanitation in schools worldwide to prevent the spread of common infections through sharing toilets.

It is natural for most people to hide the truth and continue using dirty and filthy toilets.

Students on campus can join hands and put their heads together to start the general sanitation of their bedrooms and toilets.

I know a student in Moremi Hall at the University of Lagos who mobilized her roommates and they made sure their toilet was clean and safe for daily use.

There is a finishing school on Isaac John Street in Ikeja, Lagos, for the grooming of young girls and young women on hygiene and etiquette.

Paris Hilton at the 2007 MTV Awards and Style Gala

BEIJING, Nov. 23 -- Paris Hilton, the millionaire heiress to the Hilton hotel chain is in Shanghai for the first time to attend Friday's 2007 MTV Awards and Style Gala at the Shanghai Grand Stage.

The American socialite checked out Shanghai fashions, cuddled stuffed pandas and sauntered along the famous Bund waterfront while visiting China's most style-conscious city for the MTV Style awards.



"Shanghai looks like the future!" Hilton said in a news conference at the Hyatt on the waterfront, one of the newest landmarks in a city teeming with new skyscrapers.

A visit to the city's jam-packed Yu Yuan Garden gave her an authentic taste of Shanghai's juicy steam buns and flower tea and the crowding common in the city of more than 20 million.

But Hilton, unfazed by the throngs of onlookers, carried on with her shopping, pausing to hug an elderly lady and to pose in several dresses by Chinese designer Lu Kun, one of the city's hottest new fashion stars.


(Source: China Daily/Agencies)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Thanksgiving [Nov 22]

The Thanksgiving dinner last year was really special. Boy, have I got a story for you! It was at Megan's place and all of us were gathered, even my niece Rachel and sister Debbie. Megan has this fine teakwood table with artful carvings. We all sat around the table and there were two chairs to be taken. Rachel wouldn't let anybody take the one next to her. She announced that it's for her favorite teddy bear. And for the other one, there was a special guest. A wealthy businessman was invited and he occupied the chair. Next to him was seated Megan's granddad, Mr. Branson, a charming gentleman, who spoke in fragmented sentences and started and ended every anecdote with a joke.

He was old and his eyesight was poor. He used the fork on the table more than the plate and spilled wine from time to time. The businessman thundered aloud his immodesty and bragged about how he owns half the town, his lineage, cars, et al. He didn't quite make an impression and Megan's granddad, Mr. Branson stole his thunder with his sweet stories and this irked the rich one! He could see people smiling when Mr. Branson was on and dutifully eating when he came on with his sermon.Offended, he called for a change of seat. He was irritated by the old man's untidy table etiquette and complained loudly about it. Just then, Mr. Branson happened to spill some soup, which found its way to the floor. Last straw...“Damn you, old man, you are a fool, you should be ashamed of yourself... I just can't stand him!” And eyed the chair next to Rachel.

Everyone of us were too stunned to speak...Rachel wiggled out of the chair with tiny feet touching the floor. She took the teddy from the chair next to her, made a roundabout, walked over to the businessman. “It's alright, you don’t need to sit beside a fool” - this she delivered straight to Mr. Branson, held his arm and offered the chair beside her.Teddy was perched atop the table and all of us could see that it didn't mind losing the chair! It was the Thanksgiving dinner.

From Bob,
The Editor of 123 Greetings Newletter.

Cyprian Ekwensi: The Charles Dickens of Africa (September 26, 1921 – November 4, 2007)

Cyprian Ekwensi

Cyprian Ekwensi (born 1921) is a Nigerian writer who stressed description of the locale and whose episodic style was particularly well suited to the short story. Cyprian Odiatu Duaka Ekwensi was born at Minna in Northern Nigeria on September 26, 1921. He later lived in Onitsha in the Eastern area. He was educated at Achimota College, in lbadan, the Gold Coast, and at the Chelsea School of Pharmacy of London University.

He lectured in pharmacy at Lagos and was employed as a pharmacist by the Nigerian Medical Corporation. Ekwensi married Eunice Anyiwo, and they had five children. After favorable reception of his early writing, he joined the Nigerian Ministry for Information and had risen to be the director of that agency by the time of the first military coup in 1966. After the continuing disturbances in the Western and Northern regions in the summer of 1966, Ekwensi gave up his position and relocated his family at Enugu. He became chair of the Bureau for External Publicity in Biafra and an adviser to the head of state, Col. Odumegwu Ojukwu. Ekwensi began his writing career as a pamphleteer, and this perhaps explains the episodic nature of his novels. This tendency is well illustrated by People of the City (1954), in which Ekwensi gave a vibrant portrait of life in a West African city. It was the first major novel to be published by a Nigerian. Two novellas for children appeared in 1960; both The Drummer Boy and The Passport of Mallam Ilia were exercises in blending traditional themes with undisguised romanticism. Ekwensi's most widely read novel, Jagua Nana, appeared in 1961. It was a return to the locale of People of the City but boasted a much more cohesive plot centered on the character of Jagua, a courtesan who had a love for the expensive. Even her name was a corruption of the expensive English auto. Her life personalized the conflict between the old traditional and modern urban Africa. Ekwensi published a sequel in 1987 titled Jagua Nana's Daughter. Burning Grass (1961) is a collection of vignettes concerning a Fulani family. Its major contribution is the insight it presents into the life of this pastoral people. Ekwensi based the novel and the characters on a real family with whom he had previously lived. Between 1961 and 1966 Ekwensi published at least one major work every year.

The most important of these were the novels, Beautiful Feathers (1963) and Iska (1966), and two collections of short stories, Rainmaker (1965) and Lokotown (1966). Ekwensi continued to publish beyond the 1960s, and among his later works are the novel Divided We Stand (1980), the novella Motherless Baby (1980), and The Restless City and Christmas Gold (1975), Behind the Convent Wall (1987), and Gone to Mecca (1991). Ekwensi also published a number works for children. Under the name C. O. D. Ekwensi, he released Ikolo the Wrestler and Other Ibo Tales (1947) and The Leopard's Claw (1950). In the 1960s, he wrote An African Night's Entertainment (1962), The Great Elephant-Bird (1965), and Trouble in Form Six (1966). Ekwensi's later works for children include Coal Camp Boy (1971), Samankwe in the Strange Forest (1973), Samankwe and the Highway Robbers (1975), and Masquerade Time! (1992), and King Forever! (1992).

In recognition of his skills as a writer, Ekwensi was awarded the Dag Hammarskjold International Prize for Literary Merit in 1969.

Bookrags

Ekwensi died on 4 November 2007 at the age of 86 at the Niger Foundation in Enugu, where he underwent an operation for an undisclosed ailment

Tributes:

Nigeria: Cyprian Ekwensi (1921 - 2007)AllAfrica.com, Washington - 14 minutes agoThe death on November 4, 2007 of Cyprian Odiatu Duakwa Ekwensi robbed Nigeria of one of its illustrious sons. Even though he had trained as a forester and ...

nigeria: cyprian ekwensi - exit of the master storytellerAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 20, 2007just over two weeks ago, nigeria lost a pathfinder in literary exertions by the name cyprian ekwensi. for six decades, he authored about 40 novels and ...

re: eaglet thieves and super eagle robbersNigerian Tribune, Nigeria - 11 hours agojulius abega, makurdi. the death of cyprian ekwensi is a great loss to the nation but thank god he lived a heroic life and died as a hero. it is not how ...

Nigerian Tribune
If accountants can fix it, who needs journalists anyway? (1)Nigerian Tribune, Nigeria - 11 hours agoLast week, the renowned author Cyprian Ekwensi (“Jaguar Nana”) died at the age of 86. Not many people will remember that about 45 years ago there was an ...

ekwensi: exit of a literatiNigerian Tribune, Nigeria - Nov 18, 2007... ekwensi found it difficult, from an early stage in life to resist the call of the pen. in the typical igbo folklore, cyprian ekwensi was like the ...

writers urge fg, lagos state govt to immortalise cyprian ekwensiVanguard, Nigeria - Nov 17, 2007on sunday november 4, the association of nigerian authors (ana) lagos, lost one of their own, cyprian ekwensi (mfr), a novelist and fore-runner of the ...

nigeria: authors pay tribute to cyprian ekwensiAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 6, 2007the association of nigerian authors (ana) and other writers yesterday paid tribute to the late veteran novelist, cyprian ekwensi, who died on sunday at 86. ...

Nigeria: Cyprian Ekwensi, Foremost Writer, Dies at 86AllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 6, 2007Chief Cyprian Odiatu Duakwa Ekwensi, author of several popular novels and short stories, is dead. He died at the age of 86. Ekwensi was born in Minna in ...

nigeria: cyprian ekwensi dies at 86AllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 6, 2007one of the nation's greatest literary writers, chief cyprian odiatu duaka ekwensi, has died at the age of 86. ekwensi died on sunday november 4 at the niger ...

nigeria: fg, ohanaeze, onoh mourn ekwensiAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 6, 2007... ohanaeze ndigbo and former governor of old anambra state, chief christian onoh, yesterday expressed shock over the death of chief cyprian ekwensi, ...
Nigeria: Ohanaeze, Onoh, Others Mourn EkwensiAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 6, 2007Ohanaeze Ndigbo, yesterday, expressed shock over the death of renowned writer and public commentator, Cyprian Ekwensi saying his demise was a great loss to ...

Nigeria: Ode to a Literary ColossusAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 14, 2007I first met Cyprian Ekwensi in the 70s in his novel: The Drummer Boy which some confuse with Florence Nightingale's The Drummer Boy. ...

‘how ekwensi got literary inspiration’The Tide, Nigeria - Nov 12, 2007mr victor ekwensi, the younger brother to deceased nigerian author, cyprian ekwensi said his brother got the inspiration for writing from their late father. ...

ANA plans post humous award for EkwensiThe Tide, Nigeria - Nov 11, 2007The Association of Nigerian Authors (ANA), Enugu State branch, will convert the proposed literary honour to the late Nigerian author, Cyprian Ekwensi, ...

Nigerian Tribune
Cyprian Ekwensi in the eyes of NdigboNigerian Tribune, Nigeria - Nov 8, 2007The late Cyprian Ekwensi, a foremost writer and literary giant, will be remembered as one of those who shaped the destiny of Nigeria through his books and ...

Cyprian (COD) Ekwensi, 1921-2007Business Day, Nigeria - Nov 8, 2007A chapter in the nation’s literary annals has closed with the death of veteran novelist, pharmacist and public commentator, Cyprian Ekwensi, Monday, ...

Cyprian Ekwensi, famed Nigerian Author passes away.ClickAfrique, UK - Nov 5, 2007One the fathers of modern Nigerian literature Cyprian Ekwensi has passed away at the age of 86. The Nigerian Guardian reported he died in Enugu in eastern ...

‘Ekwensi’s death, loss to modern Nigerian literature’Nigerian Tribune, Nigeria - Nov 5, 2007By Akintayo Abodunrin - 06.11.2007 THE demise of veteran novelist, Cyprian Ekwensi, has been described as the loss of a key architect of modern Nigerian ...

AfricaNews
renowned nigerian author, ekwensi, diedAfricaNews, Netherlands - Nov 5, 2007one of nigeria's most acclaimed authors, cyprian ekwensi, has died at the age of 86, the guardian newspaper reported monday. ekwensi reportedly died at the ...

Nigeria: Our Literature And Its Disappearing EldersAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 10, 2007News of the death of Cyprian Ekwensi this week, took time to spread, almost like a non-event, and yet, an Ekwensi event should be accorded the deserved ...

Nigeria: Those Interesting Dimensions of PoliticsAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 8, 2007Just a few days ago, I had been wondering that I had not heard anything about the venerable old man, Cyprian Ekwensi, for a long while. ...

Daily Sun
photo: sun news publishingDaily Sun, Nigeria - Nov 10, 2007for many years cyprian ekwensi, was a byword not only in nigeria but worldwide. a trained pharmacist, he won renown in creative writing, ...

• ANA to immortalize himDaily Sun, Nigeria - Nov 5, 2007Another member of the family, Engr. Nwankwo told Daily Sun that the late Cyprian Ekwensi was not seriously sick, "apart from the normal sickness associated ...

Africa: Review of African BlogsAllAfrica.com, Washington - Nov 9, 2007"I am deeply saddened by this news of the death of the pioneer Nigerian novelist Cyprian Ekwensi this week. He was 86. Ekwensi, the author of arguably the ...

Taking on the EUBusiness Day, Nigeria - Nov 14, 2007I feel compelled to add my own tribute to the many already bestowed on Cyprian Ekwensi who has passed on at the ripe age of 86. I have always felt that he ...

a good night to proseNigerian Tribune, Nigeria - Nov 7, 2007my first encounter with cyprian odiatu duaka ekwensi was in the second ary school when we had to read one of his books. the soul-stirring tale of hope and ...

The Evolution of Kisses & Roses, Want To Be Santa

Kisses & Roses has continued to display and portray the romantic culture of human nature in haute couture, love, wellness and other facts of the existential issues of life on earth.

It is a cosmopolitan blogzine for the celebration and promotion of life.
Therefore, Kisses & Roses is not a personal blog, but a general blog for the benefit of all.

You are welcome to contribute and share the beauty in diversity in our common humanity.

Cheers and God bless.

Yours faithfully,
Orikinla Osinachi
The Publisher/Editor

Want to Be Santa?




Nov. 21 - Want to be santa? You'll have to pass a test first to ensure there are no dissapointments on Christmas day.

Every year, a Berlin-based Santa agency holds castings to make sure the city's children receive the perfect visit from Santa. The jury is usually made up of three people and the Santas who pass the test, receive their very own diploma.

Michelle Carlile-Alkhouri reports.

Soundbites:

Hu-Ping Chen, Head of Santa-placement at Student Santa Agency
Jury member

Heidi Klum’s Angels Walk on the Runway in Los Angeles

Super Models From the Runway To TV Shows

Models may look pretty, but can they hold a TV show together? The truth is, while the still camera may love leggy models, the TV camera is another beast altogether; it takes a certain gregarious presence to work that small screen. In honor of the return of Heidi Klum and another season of "Project Runway," here's a rundown of the stars who have worked it both in high fashion and in TV-land.



Tyra Banks, "America's Next Top Model"

Honestly, you can't turn on the TV anymore without seeing fresh episodes or reruns of "Top Model," or Tyra's talk show, or … well, Tyra in pretty much anything. Earlier in her career, she was lovely but still a bit awkward as she tried to play traditional acting roles ("Higher Learning," "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"), but once she realized her own persona was the best role ever, she's been rocking it. Her critiques of the models can sometimes be brutal, but she's been there and always tempers her comments with a nice gravitas. And she's still in the running toward becoming America's Next Top Mogul.



Heidi Klum

The willowy Klum was an early '90s runway phenom who rocketed back to the A-list with the brilliant competitive reality show "Project Runway." Klum's beauty and straightforward presentation work well on the show, where she's the host and head of the panel of judges, but wisely lets contestant coach Tim Gunn have the lion's share of the attention. And her cute German accent somehow makes hearing "Nick, you ahr aught" a little easier to take. Auf Wiedersehen, hiatus; welcome Season 4!



Janice Dickinson, "The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency"

The self-billed "world's first supermodel" splashed back into consciousness in early seasons of "ANTM." Yes, she borders on being a caricature, but you can't deny her entertainment value. She jazzed up "The Surreal Life" and has written several books, all snarky. And she's got a healthy ego: "I was Versace's muse, I was Valentino's muse, I was Alaia's muse, Lancetti's muse, Calvin Klein's, Halston's. I could go on and on."



Twiggy, "America's Next Top Model"

This lady has some great genes. Ever since she was the waifish pinup girl for Swinging London and Carnaby Street, she's evolved into a strong actress and is as lovely as ever. She's taken a stab at traditional acting ("The Boy Friend" anyone?) as well as the short-lived 1991 series "Princesses." But she's hit her stride on "ANTM" as a gentle but articulate critic of model performance, and seems to have the modeling biz in good perspective.

Spice Girls At Victoria's Secret Fashion Show

8 Love Poems for You

1. Kiss Me Again

Kiss me again
Kiss away my tears and my pain.
I have been left in the cold rain
And my heart has been broken in vain.

I cried out for someone to rescue me.
I prayed for someone to set me free.

Then, you came to my rescue
You made my dream to come true
Because, you are the answer to my prayer
And I will cherish your love forever.

Kiss me again my darling.


2.Sleeping In Your Arms

When I sleep in your arms
I always have sweet dreams.
Sweet dreams of bliss

Sleeping in your arms.

I can feel your pulse
From my muscle to my corpuscle
Your loving touch makes me tense
From muscle to muscle
As you hold me tight
I can hear your heartbeat.
.
Sleeping in your arms.

How I wish this should last forever
The sweet sensation of my love fever
Ssshhhhhh…don’t interrupt my love.
Let her sleep in my arms in my grove.


3. How Can I Sleep Without Your Love?

How can I sleep?
When your love makes me weep?

Things have fallen apart
I am left with a broken heart
I am no longer at ease.
Oh! When my heartaches cease?

I stay awake all night
Praying for you to love me.
And I cannot rest
Until I regain your love.

Oh! Why can’t you love me?
Please, tell me what is wrong?
What can I do to win your love?
I will do anything for your love.

How can I sleep without your love?


4. When Love Goes Up and Down

When love goes up and down
The news goes round the town
You can even hear the echoes in the sky
Of the wagging tongues of gossips as they pass by.


5. Pretty Pretty Girls

Pretty pretty girls all around me
I see them here and there
I see them everywhere
I see them every day by day
I see them all the way
I see them wherever I may be.

Pretty pretty girls all around me.

So many beautiful faces
In so many different places
Full of smiles and laughs
They tickle my fancy
And they make me feel so happy.

Pretty pretty girls all around me.


6. True Love Waits

If I have wait for one year
Even if I have to wait for ten years
As long as you are going to be my baby
I don’t mind to wait for your love.

I will not be in a hurry
And I don’t have to worry.
Come rain or shine
What will be mine will be mine.

What will be, will be
And only the best is good enough for me.
So, I will not settle for less
I will wait for you my Princess.

I am willing to walk the extra mile
Even if I have to walk a million miles
As long as you are going to be my baby
I don’t mind to wait for your love.



7. You Are One In A Million

I have been to many different places
And I have seen so many different faces
Of different colours and races
Beautiful and wonderful people
God created all over the world.
But you are one of a kind
Your beauty blows my mind
You must be an angel from heaven
And the most beautiful I have ever seen.

You are one in a million
Oh, beautiful daughter of Zion.

When you smile, the sun shines brighter
And when you laugh, dark clouds disappear.
When you sing, your angelic voice echoes in the skies
And I see angels dancing and singing along in the clouds
When I look into your beautiful eyes
I see my dreams twinkling like stars
And I am lifted up into paradise
Lifted to the seventh heaven of the universe.

You are one in a million
Oh, beautiful daughter of Zion.


8. Nothing Compares To Your Love

I have been to many places
And I have seen many faces
I have traveled far and wide
Searching for worldly glories in my foolish pride
My dreams have been shattered
And my hopes have been dashed.

I have been loved and unloved
My heart has been broken many times
And I have written so many rhymes
Writing reams of love to my beloved
But my beloved failed me
And what I had I can no longer see.

I thought there was no more hope
As I was sliding down the slope
I thought I was lost
Wandering from pillar to post
Until you came from above
And wiped away all my tears
And you took away all my sorrows and my fears
Oh, Jesus Christ! Nothing compares to your love.


N.B:
These poems are from the second book of my original poems, Scarlet Tears of London in English and Spanish, available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, MSN Shopping and over 100 other places online and offline.

The Tallest Christmas Tree, Ring of Lights and So Much More in Newport

Photos: Tallest Christmas Tree and the Oldest Holiday Boat Parade in the U.S. are Holiday Happenings in 'The O.C.'

Southern California's Newport Beach Becomes a Fantasyland of Holiday Lights - on Land and Sea!



NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., Nov. 15 /PRNewswire/ --

The famed coastal resort destination of Newport Beach in Orange County, California, welcomes the 2007 holiday season with a combination of events that have become eagerly anticipated wintertime traditions. To the delight of residents and visitors alike, Newport Beach hosts the oldest holiday boat parade in the U.S. and what is believed to be the tallest Christmas tree in the nation.


To view the Multimedia News Release, go to:
http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/nbcvb/30804/


Fashion Island in Newport Beach, Southern California's premier Mediterranean style open-air shopping center with views of the Pacific Ocean, again boasts what is thought to be the nation's tallest Christmas tree, a grand 115 ft. white fir direct from the forests of northern California's Mt. Shasta. The impressive tree features 17,000 lights and ornaments, weighs approximately 20,000 lbs. and takes a 10-man crew nearly two weeks to decorate. The enormous tree will make its home in the Bloomingdale's Courtyard of Fashion Island.




The majestic tree officially debuts on Friday and Saturday, November 16 and 17 during the retail center's annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. This event will feature Santa's arrival and a song and dance spectacular by the California Conservatory of the Arts. Festivities begin at 6 p.m.


In keeping with an environmentally sensitive philosophy, Fashion Island works closely every year with Victor's Strictly Custom Christmas Trees and the U.S. Forestry Service in finding the towering tree. Victor's replants an average of 10 trees for every one tree harvested, and trees are only removed from designated timber areas where harvesting will have no detrimental impact on the environment. In addition, Fashion Island's Christmas tree will be recycled into mulch after the holidays, as is done every year.


If there was ever an aquatic equivalent to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade or the Pasadena Tournament of Roses, it must be the annual Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade. There are over 20 holiday boat parades from coast to coast across the country (from Seattle to Maine, D.C. to Florida) but the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is the granddaddy of them all. Called "One of the top holiday happenings in the nation" by The New York Times, the water-borne procession is the oldest holiday boat parade in the United States and perhaps the most spectacular, delighting generations since 1908.



The parade sails into its 99th holiday season on Wednesday, December 12 through Sunday, December 16 at 6:30 pm each evening in Newport Harbor. With the theme of 'Twas the Lights Before Christmas,' the visually stunning parade is expected to again attract an audience of over one million spectators over the five consecutive evenings. View last year's parade at http://www.visitnewportbeach.com/.


Presented by Simple Green, Fidelity Investments and Traditional Jewelers, the parade features over 100 festively lit and decorated boats -- ranging from small skiffs to enormous multi-million dollar yachts (some boat owners through the years have spent over $50,000 to decorate their vessels!). The colorful parade winds its way nearly 14 miles around the harbor to give viewers in restaurants, yacht clubs, on public beaches, and in private homes an incredible sight.


The backdrop for the parade is the annual "Ring of Lights" contest of beautifully decorated estates surrounding the harbor. With its judged categories and prizes, the competition has brought out fierce but friendly rivalries among neighbors and is almost as celebrated as the parade itself.


About Newport Beach


Newport Beach, located 45 miles south of Los Angeles and 85 miles north of San Diego, epitomizes the true essence of southern California living at its finest with a wide variety of visitor accommodations, attractions, world-class dining and shopping, one of the largest small yacht harbors in the world and inviting year-round weather.


Watch the Video
Source: Newport Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau

CONTACT: Audrey Leoncio, Marketing & Public Relations Manager of Newport
Beach Conference & Visitors Bureau, +1-949-719-6100, audrey@nbcvb.com; or Tim
O'Day, Principal & Executive Consultant of O'Day & Associates, Inc.,
+1-714-783-7415, tim.oday@odayandassociates.com, for Newport Beach Conference
& Visitors Bureau


Welcome to Newport Beach

5 Women She Hates

5 Women She Hates

Manage all the women in your life.

~ By the Editors of Men's Health

Jealousy on the part of your significant other can sabotage your best female friendships. Here's how to smooth over your relationship.

The Leggy Coworker

Why she's worried: Your sexy office gal pal has unfettered access to half of your weekday, and your girl fears this face time can spark a cubicle romance.

Ease her fears: Play show and tell. Give your girl a guided tour of the office, introduce her to your coworkers — including Legs — and end at your desk, where she'll find a prominently displayed picture of herself. It's a talisman that wards off flirty office workers, says Dorian Solot, author of I Love Female Orgasm. "It shows her she's on your mind while you're on the clock."

2. The College Cohort

Why she's worried: You spent 4 boozy, sexually charged years with this girl, who knows the secret handshake and dated half of your fraternity. What's more, unlike your girl, she has a standing invitation to game day and poker night.

Ease her fears: Paint the friend as a mascot, not a romantic interest, says Susan F. Benjamin, author of Perfect Phrases for Dealing with Difficult People. And invite your gal to a few college game parties, so she'll see that the cutie sits squarely in your "like-a-sister" category.

3. The Matriarch

Why she's worried: Your woman feels resentful about her own need to impress your mom.

Ease her fears: Ship your ladies off to a wine tasting together (find one in your city at localwineevents.com). Each wants to win the other's approval, which can lead to insecurities and false perceptions, says Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D., author of Disagreements, Disputes and All-out War. A retreat with some vino will melt away any hangups.

4. The Facebook Fox

Why she's worried: You've dutifully declared you're "in a relationship" on your MySpace or Facebook profile. But she worries it means nothing to the harem of cybervixens on your friends list.

Ease her fears: Let her plant a flag in your digital world. If they're not online, too, girlfriends and wives place these sites just a notch above porn. Help her create her own page and bump her up to the top of your friends list.

5. The Gym Goddess

Why she's worried: Your trainer is single and oozes sexuality from every pore. You may say her post-workout chats are harmless, but your girlfriend knows better (and so do you, playa).

Ease her fears: Play matchmaker and set her up with a friend, says Solot. Face it: You're taken, and she's a temptress. Best to try this under-utilized brushoff, which will allow you two to still chat at the gym. The move takes her off your gal's worry list.



John Russell reports

Talk of the Town brings you the latest in news, music and celebrity talk
· A new title for Matt Damon.
· Bush is "uncool".
· The bidding on Liz Taylor.

A Special Message from Quincy Jones

The legendary record producer, Quincy Jones describes why he supports Hillary Clinton's campaign for president.

Paper is from Venus, Electronics are from Mars

14 Nov 2007 11:20 Africa/Lagos


Paper is from Venus, Electronics are from Mars

Nine out of 10 women track their schedules with a paper calendar, according to a new national survey.

NEW YORK, Nov. 14 /PRNewswire/ --

Even in this wired age, women prefer to use non-digital means to organize their schedules. According to the Whomi Track Your Time Survey, women were more likely to use paper scheduling (91%) compared with men (77%), while men were more likely (38%) to use electronic organizing tools than women (24%).

Female survey respondents cited several advantages of paper scheduling tools: 89% percent of women agreed that "you remember things better when you write them down"; 87% that it is "easier to write notes and reminders on it"; and 68% that "paper tools are faster than waiting for an electronic organizer to start up."

The Whomi Track Your Time Survey found that most women are using multiple methods in their attempts to manage their schedules.

"Even if women use an electronic planner, most are supplementing it with paper calendars and lists to stay on top of all of their tasks," said Nina Korelitz Matza, Creator and co-owner of Whomi, the Manhattan-based maker of paper time management accessories, which sponsored the survey.

"79% of female respondents reported using at least two different methods for tracking schedules; the majority (65%) reported using three or more methods. Unfortunately, maintaining schedules in several locations can result in missed appointments and double- booking, which can subsequently lead to serious frustration!"

Women may be using several scheduling tools because they are more likely to be tracking multiple schedules than are men. Fifty-five percent of female survey respondents manage schedules for themselves and others, versus 37% of men. Women report managing schedules for spouses (37%), children living with them (34%) and elderly parents or relatives (12%).The paper scheduling tools used by respondents (both men and women combined) include wall calendars (57%), desk calendars (49%), paper lists (41%), and pocket calendars (29%). In addition, 54% say they use "their heads." Electronic scheduling devices used by respondents include the computer or Internet (25%) and electronic organizers such as BlackBerry (13%). The computer or Internet is more likely to be used by men (30%) than women (20%), as are electronic organizers (18% of men versus nine percent of women). Eighty-six percent of people who use electronic schedulers also use some form of paper scheduling.

Whomi commissioned the Track Your Time Survey to learn more about how Americans manage their schedules. Independent market research company Opinion Research Corporation conducted the survey by telephone among 1,026 adults in the continental United States in June 2007.

More survey results and consumer tips for setting up a new calendar are available at http://blog.whomi.com/.

About Whomi

Founded in 2005, Whomi(TM) offers innovative time-management accessories for women. Marketing consultant Nina Korelitz Matza and Attorney Gail Auster founded Whomi when they recognized an unmet need for non-digital, functional and stylish products to balance multi-faceted schedules. The company's Whomi Clarity Agenda features the patent-pending, color-coded Whomi View, which enables women to track all their projects in one portable place.

Whomi products are available at http://www.whomi.com/ and in select stores nationwide. Source:

Whomi

CONTACT: Diana Tedesco of Fraiche PR, +1-212-463-8930,

diana@fraichepr.com, for Whomi
Web site: http://www.whomi.com/
http://blog.whomi.com/

The Girl With The Best Buttocks in Japan

The Dangers of Cosmetic Surgery

It would be like searching for a needle in a haystack if you are searching for any of the celebrated beauties in Hollywood who has not done cosmetic or plastic surgery. The quest for the perfect or ageless beauty has made thousands of self-conscious celebrities to make surgical modifications to their faces, because their faces are their means of fame and fortune. But if we see what cosmetic surgery has done to the face of Michael Jackson, you need to think twice before attempting to do yours.

The following video is a must watch.

N.B:
I have been on and off, because of disruptions of the Internet connection in our estate since last weekend. The ISP has technical problems. If the disruptions continue, I have to use public cyber cafes outside the estate and in Nigeria, public cyber cafes are not conducive to your health and safety.

How To Use Chopsticks

Armani Touts 20 Japan Years

Yesterday, it was a special focus on Christian Lacroix.
Today, I am showing the grand dandy of haute couture, Giorgio Armani in his exclusive fashion show to mark his 20th anniversary in Japan.



Dan Sloan reporting


Nov. 8 - Designer Giorgio Armani and collection rolled into Tokyo for a 1-night show marking his 20th year in Japan.

With a star-studded guest list at Tokyo's famous Budokan theater, the 73-year-old designer used Japanese models and themes, in a country home to 10% of his business.

More breaking news on fashion and entertainment at the news video section below.

Christian Lacroix Designs "History of Fashion" Exhibition

Celebrities Kiss Domestic Violence Goodbye

Celebrities Kiss Domestic Violence Goodbye

Martina McBride Joins Mary Kay and CMA to Launch 'A Kiss for Country' Charity Campaign

DALLAS, Nov. 6 /PRNewswire/ --

Ever dreamed about getting a kiss from songstress Miranda Lambert or some sugar from Sugarland's Jennifer Nettles? Mary Kay, the Official Beauty Sponsor of "The 41st Annual CMA Awards," has enlisted the help of Country Music superstar Martina McBride to turn these celebrity fantasies into realities with a new philanthropic initiative to counter domestic violence. As part of the national "A Kiss for Country" charity campaign being unveiled by McBride, top Country Music artists have partnered with Mary Kay to auction off their kiss prints to benefit the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation programs committed to ending domestic violence.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071106/NYTU003 )


On Tuesday, Nov. 6, McBride will join Mary Kay and CMA Chief Executive Officer Tammy Genovese at The Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum to unveil the celebrity-smooched "kiss cards" and show her ongoing commitment to the prevention of domestic violence.


"As a performer, I am lucky to have the opportunity to share my messages with the public, but through 'A Kiss for Country,' Mary Kay is allowing me to spread hope," said Martina McBride, the longtime champion of the cause against domestic violence. "Through the kisses of my fellow Country Music artists and the generous contributions of the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation, we are hoping to help put an end to domestic violence."


To help Mary Kay kiss domestic violence goodbye, spokesperson Martina McBride and participating Country Music artists, including Reba McEntire, Sara Evans, Jennifer Hanson, Miranda Lambert, Jo Dee Messina, Jennifer Nettles, Tanya Tucker and Wynonna applied their favorite Mary Kay lip products, ranging from Mary Kay Crème Lipstick in Mocha Freeze to Mary Kay NouriShine Lip Gloss in Pink Diamonds, and imparted their lip prints on specially designed "kiss cards." Adding a fun element, the lip prints were analyzed by a professional "kissologist" and will be displayed backstage at the Mary Kay Makeup Touch-Up Station at the 2007 CMA Awards on Wednesday, Nov. 7. On Tuesday, Nov. 6, fans will have the chance to bid on their favorite star's kiss prints through an auction on uBid.com, with 100 percent of proceeds being donated to help end domestic violence.


Mary Kay is stepping up the commitment by providing a $20,000 grant to a women's shelter through the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation in each participating artist's name in exchange for their kiss print. These grants will be awarded in 2008 to women's domestic violence shelters in each of the 50 states. In 2008, the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation pledges to donate up to $3 million to women's shelters around the country.


"With one in three women in this country affected by domestic violence, it is important for survivors to know there is hope and help in their neighborhood. We are thrilled to partner with Martina and some of the top names in Country Music to shine the spotlight on this cause," said Rhonda Shasteen, Mary Kay senior vice president, global brand strategy. "The Country Music community is generous and committed and we are honored to offer stars and fans alike the chance to unite against this cause."


"This unique partnership between the Country Music Association, Mary Kay and the Country Music community, has given us the opportunity to help make a difference in the lives of survivors of domestic violence, a problem that is unfortunately too prevalent in our country," said CMA's Genovese.


"The Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation is grateful for the partnership and support of the Country Music Association, as well as the generosity of such high-profile Country Music artists for contributing to the 'A Kiss for Country' charitable campaign." said Karen Rogers, Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation Board Member and granddaughter of Mary Kay Ash. "Together we can make a difference and help break the silence on violence."


About the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation


Founded in 1996 by Mary Kay Ash, the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation supports research dedicated to finding cures for cancers affecting women and programs committed to ending domestic violence. This year, the Foundation awarded $1.3 million in research grants to a select group of research scientists. In 2006, the Foundation awarded $20,000 grants to 150 women's shelters in all 50 states, totaling $3 million. For more information about the Mary Kay Ash Charitable Foundation, visit www.mkacf.org or call 1-877- MKCARES (652-2737).


About Mary Kay


Mary Kay Inc., one of the largest direct sellers of skin care and color cosmetics in the world, achieved another year of record results in 2006, with $2.25 billion in wholesale sales. Founded in 1963, the Mary Kay independent sales force today includes more than 1.7 million people in more than 30 markets worldwide. Mary Kay's offerings include more than 200 premium products in five categories: facial skin care, color cosmetics, body care, sun protection and fragrance. To learn more about Mary Kay or to find an Independent Beauty Consultant, visit www.marykay.com or call 1-800-MARY KAY (627-9529).


About the Country Music Association


Founded in 1958, the Country Music Association was the first trade organization formed to promote a type of music. More than 6,000 music industry professionals and companies from around the globe are members of CMA. The organization's objectives are to advance the growth of Country Music around the world and to demonstrate it as a viable medium to advertisers, consumers, and the media through CMA's core initiatives - CMA Music Festival and the CMA Awards.


Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071106/NYTU003
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Mary Kay

CONTACT: Jill A. Kleiner, jkleiner@coynepr.com, or Rena Steinbach,
rsteinbach@coynepr.com, both of Coyne PR for Mary Kay, +1-973-316-1665


Web site: http://www.marykay.com/
http://www.mkacf.org/

March of Dimes Honors Babies on 'El Dia de Todos los Santos'

March of Dimes Honors Babies on 'El Dia de Todos los Santos'

More than 5,000 Latino Infants Don't Live to See their First Birthday

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 1 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

On "El Dia de Todos Los Santos" the March of Dimes is honoring all babies -- those born healthy, those who need help to thrive and survive, and those who died in infancy.


Nearly 28,000 infants die before their first birthday each year -- more than 5,000 to Latina mothers and more than 2,500 in California alone.


Vicente Perez, Jr. is just one of those.


He was born 13 weeks too soon on August 25, 2005, along with his two sisters, Priscilla and Melissa. The triplets spent months in hospital neonatal intensive care units. Priscilla and Melissa finally came home, but Vicente lived only six months.


"Parents are not supposed to bury their children," said his father, Vicente Perez, Sr. "Vicente was our only son and we had to bury him. We lost part of our lives when we lost him."


Mr. Perez's story is one of thousands being gathered by the March of Dimes across the country as part of Prematurity Awareness Month in November. People can share their stories online at http://marchofdimes.com/everybaby or by getting on board a specially equipped "Every Baby Story Tour" motorcoach that will visit 16 cities across the country.


Mr. Perez shared his story at a breakfast for the news media at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, where he was joined by Dayanara Torres, star of CW-TV's Watch Over Me, and Carolina Reyes, MD, the Executive Director of the Los Angeles Best Babies Network, a coordinating body for the Healthy Births Initiative.


"Latinos are the largest and fastest growing ethnic group in the United States. More than 100,000 Latino infants are born premature each year and the rate of preterm birth among Latinos has increased nearly 10 percent over the past decade -- from 10.9 percent in 1994 to 12 percent in 2004," said Dr. Reyes. "Prematurity is the leading cause of newborn death."


Nationwide, more than a half million babies are born too soon each year and babies who do survive face lifelong health risks and developmental challenges. Premature births (birth before 37 weeks gestation) in the United States have increased more than 30 percent since 1981, and in 2004 more than 520,000 infants were born too soon.


In California, nearly 11 percent of babies -- more than 50,000 -- were born premature in 2004, an increase of about 7 percent over the previous decade.


"Having a premature baby is very painful; imagine having three clinging to life?" asked Mr. Perez. "Our babies were being cared for at different hospitals. One day, I got emergency calls from both hospitals saying my babies were very sick. I didn't know where to go. They were all my children and they needed me there."


The March of Dimes is a national voluntary health agency whose mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality. Founded in 1938, the March of Dimes funds programs of research, community services, education, and advocacy. For more information, visit the March of Dimes Web site at http://marchofdimes.com/ or its Spanish language Web site at http://nacersano.org/.


Source: March of Dimes

CONTACT: Todd P. Dezen, +1-914-997-4608, tdezen@marchofdimes.com, or
Elizabeth Lynch, +1-914-997-4286, elynch@marchofdimes.com, or Robert Storace,
+1-914-997-4622, rstorace@marchofdimes.com, or Patricia A. Gonzalez-Portillo,
Los Angeles Division, +1-213-637-5070, all of the March of Dimes


Web Site: http://nacersano.org/
http://www.marchofdimes.com/

Memories of Yesterday: Seeta Aur Geeta

My father of blessed memory was a film buff who loved Hollywood and Bollywood and he took us to see films every weekend in the 1970s in Lagos.

We went to the popular cinema houses, Kings Cinema on Igbosere Street in Lafiaji, Sheila on the Broad Street near Campus Square, Plaza on Berkley Street in Onikan and Royal Cinema near the Lion's Building of the Nigerian Police Force off Broad Street.
My father, my mother, my elder brother, younger sister, two younger brothers and my youngest brother who was a toddler then was always strapped on my mother's back with her wrapper and another long strip of cloth called Oja by the Yorubas as we took cabs to these cinema houses.

I loved the Western Cowboys versus Red Indian films, war films and Bollywood films.
One of the Bollywood films I cannot forget is Seeta Aur Geeta, when the most celebrated Bollywood actress Hema Malini was at the zenith of her beauty and acting genius. No boy or man saw Hema Malini in her youth and did not fall in love with her. She was just too attractive and captivating on the silver screen.



Directed by Ramesh Sippy
Produced by R. P. Sippy
Written by Salim-Javed
Starring Hema Malini,
Sanjeev Kumar,
Dharmendra
Music by R. D. Burman
Release date(s) 1972
Running time 166 mins
Language Hindi

Hema Malini is now 59 years old and still very beautiful as she is aging gracefully.


Hema Malini

I thought Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini would end up as husband and wife, because they were the best match in Bollywood in those wonderful years of the 1970s.


Amitabh Bachchan



Sholay is rated as the best Bollywood film of all time. I consider Seeta Aur Geeta as the most romantic Bollywood thriller since 1972 till date.

Seeta Aur Geetais a 1972 Hindi film directed by Ramesh Sippy. The story is by Salim-Javed and the music by R.D. Burman.

The story is about identical twins (played by Hema Malini) who are separated at birth and grow up with different temperaments. The twins then swap places (like The Prince and the Pauper). Hema's two partners in the movie are played by Dharmendra and Sanjeev Kumar. Manorama excels in her role as the evil aunt who changes her tune after her arm is twisted (literally).

~ From Wikipedia

Continued below...



Bollywood beauties made me to love India and I ended up having a pretty Nigerian-Indian beauty, Anita, as a close friend. Anita's grandfather was an Indian from Mumbai. I would have married an Indian beauty, but I delayed it.

Save Your World Saves 120,000 Acres of Rainforest in South America

Save Your World Save Your Hair and Save Your Skin All Natural Products with Pure Organic Yerba Mate and Pure Organic Aloe Vera: One Product = One Acre of Rainforest Saved for a Year.

Save Your World Saves 120,000 Acres of Rainforest in South America

PORTLAND, Ore., Oct. 31 /PRNewswire/ -- Save Your World(TM)

(http://www.saveyourworld.com/), the first company in the United States to launch a personal care product line infused with organic yerba mate and organic aloe vera, has saved 120,000 acres of rainforest from logging and other destructive development for one year in Guyana, South America.


High Resolution Photograph


The company, whose "green" business model is One Product = One Acre of Rainforest Saved for One Year(TM), is helping to save the rainforest through a unique and innovative leasing program, one of the first of its kind in the world.


Through contributions and product sales, Save Your World(TM) helps pay the annual royalties and fees required to maintain Conservation International's agreement with the Guyana Forestry Commission to protect the rainforest in its pristine state. Save Your World's goal is to help preserve 200,000 acres of Guyana rainforest via this renewable 30-year agreement - a conservation concession rather than a timber concession.


"Save Your World is committed to protecting our world's natural resources," explains Scott Cecil, President of Save Your World. "We believe that people can live in harmony with nature, and it's important to protect areas rich in plant and animal biodiversity for future generations. We are excited about rapidly reaching the milestone of saving 120,000 acres of rainforest."


"The project has been an enormous success with the government and people of Guyana because, for the first time, they haven't had to choose between conservation and economic development, which is a practical necessity for one of the poorest nations in the Western Hemisphere," said Dick Rice, Chief Economist at Conservation International.


The South American rainforest project is on the world's oldest geological rock formation and is one of the richest areas for plant and animal biodiversity. Rainforests contain about half the planet's 5 to 10 million plant and animal species, and harbor 70% (2000) or more of the plants identified as having anti-cancer characteristics by the U.S. National Cancer Institute.

For additional details about Save Your World(TM), Save Your Skin(TM), Save Your Hair(TM), Save Your Rainforest(TM), pure Organic Yerba Mate and pure Organic Aloe Vera, visit Save Your World.

Or, stop by Save Your World booth 747 at The Green Festival in San Francisco, CA on November 9, 10 and 11.


About Save Your World(TM)

Founded in 2006, Save Your World(TM) is a green company made up of family and friends who share a passion for preserving the world's natural resources. Save Your World(TM), under the brands Save Your Skin(TM) and Save Your Hair(TM), introduced the first pure organic yerba mate-infused, all-natural personal care product line in the U.S., with the mission to Save Your Rainforest(TM) through the product pledge "One Product = One Acre of Rainforest Saved for One Year(TM)." Products are available in a complete line of pure organic yerba mate and pure organic aloe vera-infused natural shampoos, conditioners, body lotions, shower gels, and exfoliating soaps with glycerin.

Save Your World(TM) goes to great lengths to ensure that its natural products are made in an environmentally-sensitive manner and pledges:

-- fair trade practices will always be our policy

-- no animal by-products will ever be used

-- we will not test our products on animals

-- raw materials will be biodegradable

-- packaging will be made of recycled or recyclable materials

Note to editors: Cecil is available for interviews; photos and products are available for review, and customer testimonials are available.

Contact:
Donna Morrison
VP Corporate Communications
862-576-0191
dmorrison@saveyourworld.com

Available Topic Expert(s): For information on the listed expert(s), click appropriate link. Scott Cecil http://profnet.prnewswire.com/Subscriber/ExpertProfile.aspx?ei=67736

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20070823/NYTH054
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Save Your World(TM)

CONTACT: Donna Morrison, VP Corporate Communications, +1-862-576-0191,
dmorrison@saveyourworld.com


Web site: http://www.saveyourworld.com/

PHOTO:

Save Your World Save Your Hair and Save Your Skin All Natural Products with Pure Organic Yerba Mate and Pure Organic Aloe Vera: One Product = One Acre of Rainforest Saved for a Year.