Inspiration from Women Around the World!

Inspiration from women around the world!

Dear Orikinla,

Of the billions of people who live on less than $1 a day, 70% are women and girls. It’s International Women’s Day on 8 March, and Oxfam will be sharing stories of women around the world who are fighting against poverty.

And don’t forget, this week and next is Fairtrade Fortnight, so get involved today!


Karina Brisby,
Interactive Campaigns Manager

Abdullah Ibrahim With Love From South Africa

Abdullah Dollar Brand Ibrahim

Click on the underlined title below to listen to the beautiful Jazz music of this African genius. It is poetry in motion.
Abdullah Ibrahim (Dollar Brand) - Live at the Smithsonian Institution


Abdullah Ibrahim (born 9 October 1934 in Cape Town, South Africa), formerly known as Adolph Johannes Brand, and as Dollar Brand, is a South African pianist and composer. His music reflects many of the musical influences of his childhood in the multicultural port areas of Cape Town, ranging from traditional African songs to the gospel of the AME Church and ragas, to more modern jazz and other Western styles. Within jazz, his music particularly reflects the influence of Thelonious Monk and Duke Ellington.

Read more details.

Happiness and Emptiness

Happiness and Emptiness

I am not really sure, but if I could still recollect, she was the daughter of the famous Nigerian journalist and writer, Nelson Ottah, the Editor of the defunct Drum magazine and the author of one of the first books on the Nigerian Civil War, "Rebels against Rebels". Priscilla or Patricia was one of the most beautiful students in Holy Child College, Lagos. She was attractive like her handsome father and also loved literature.

She was one of the 22 Holy Child girls who were going to be in my cast for the Lagos State Arts and Culture Festival in 1980, to represent the combined troupe of St. Gregory's College and Holy Child College.

Every boy from St. Gregory's College treated every girl from Holy Child College as a sister, because Holy Child College is the sister school of St. Gregory's College. And we interacted as brothers and sisters till we parted ways after leaving school. But something terrible happened in 1981 that has not left my consciousness.

I was going through a copy of the Daily Times newspaper when I saw the obituary of the Holy Child girl. It was the picture of Nelson Ottah's daughter! I was shocked. She had died after a brief illness. And I never knew until I saw it in the newspaper. I felt sad.
If only I visited her and was closer to her, I would have been able to save her life. Because, I believe that the kind of company we keep can be either negative or positive in our life. I cut out her picture and kept it and then did my pencil drawing of her to make sure that I never forgot her. And her memory prompted me to write this article.

I remember when another Holy Child girl died whilst we were still in school, my schoolmate, Kunle Esho went to her funeral and later told me how her face was ashen in rigor mortis. And Kunle said it was a pity that such a pretty girl was gone with her pretty face and sexy body without the opportunity of making love to her.

When my father died in 1983, I was alone with the Asian pathologist as he performed the autopsy and also embalmed the body. I did not even sob or cry. I was numb. Gazing at the same loving father who took the wife and children to the cinemas in lagos to watch Western and Indian movies. Who played his violin and later taught me Ifa divination and metaphysics. But now stone cold and lifeless.
What a life.

The sun did not stop shining
The moon did not stop glowing
The stars did not stop twinkling
The wind did not stop blowing
The rain did not stop falling
The river did not stop flowing
The plant did not stop growing
And the earth did not stop moving.

Life goes on.

Eno died in 1987 and I fainted.
I recovered and after her burial, I left Kiddies World magazine and left Lagos for Port Harcourt and Enugu to get away from the gloomy state of a Kiddies World magazine without the heart and soul of the party. The designer suits, Chauffeur driven Toyota Land Cruiser jeep and regular monthly salary became meaningless.

I returned to Lagos to be employed as a program consultant for the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) and Eno's husband was now a member of the former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida's Constituent Assembly in Abuja. He lured me back to the Kiddies World magazine and took me to Abuja to meet with Jerry Gana. The government supported Kiddies World with MAMSER adverts and regular supplies to all the Unity Schools. We were happy. And later Eno's husband became the Director of Publicity for the Alhaji Bamanga Tukur's Presidential Campaign Office on Eletu Ogabi Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. I became his P.A., whilst Kenny Ogungbe was with his bother in-law, Dr. Raymond Dokpesi, the Director of Security. There was surplus money and happy hours at the government lodge of the Kaduna State Liaison Office on Victoria Island. But when I saw the hand writing on the wall, I resigned before the evil genius, former military President, General Ibrahim Babangida canceled the presidential primaries in 1992, when he saw that the late Gen. Yar'Adua of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) could win the Presidential election.

All the prospects of a brighter and greater future for Nigeria were making most us to glow in the hope of Chief M.K.O. Abiola becoming the new President of Nigeria in 1993. But suddenly on the early hours of May 26, 1993, after a stormy night, my beloved mother died in a ghastly road accident at the Ijora-Apapa Lagos flyover. The world came to an end at my feet that fateful day. And I thought my predicament was the worst, until I saw the corpse of a young girl placed on top of the corpse of her mother in the morgue. I stopped gazing at the corpse of my mother and asked how they died.
"The big Molue bus fell off the flyover and fell on their taxicab, crushing both the cab driver, the mother and her daughter to death. They were on their way to the Oke Arin market in Idumota, Lagos," my cousin said.

We were still mourning my beloved mother when on June 23, 1993, the Babangida government annulled the June 12 Presidential elections. And that was the beginning of the June 12 crisis and the beginning of sorrows for the Chief. M.K.O. Abiola family and millions of other Nigerians.

When I sit and enjoy some happy moments of the joys of life, I still reflect on the memories of Francis Ochalla, Sunday, Gbenga Adefolarin, Funso Alabi, and Dominique, the pretty French lady who was strangled by a steward in her apartment on Victoria Island. I cannot forget them, because I miss them.

The agonies of the ironies of life would have turned me into an existentialist, but my faith as a Christian is my strength to believe that the author and creator of the whole universe has the answer to the question of life. And I resign my fate in Him.

I am not dazed or fazed by the so called status symbols of this world, because, they are corruptible and perishable. And I live for only the incorruptible and imperishable things of life.

O tempora, o mores
Oh! the the times! Oh! the habits!

Sic transit gloria (mundi)
Thus passes away the glory of the world

Who Needs Antidepressants?

Antidepressants are sold in millions in the US and the UK and the most popular Prozac, was reported to be the world's fastest-selling drug until Viagra became the most wanted drug in the US and Western European countries.

They need more Viagra for more sex, because millions of ignorant people use sex as an antidepressant.

The fact that Prozac and Viagra are the fastest-selling drugs in the Western world is enough evidence of the prevalence of ignorance among millions of Americans and Western Europeans who are being exploited by the pharmaceutical companies manufacturing these drugs to supply them to the millions of victims of the medical lies they have been fabricating for decades.

Now here is the breaking news: Antidepressant drugs don't work! and this is official.

The happiest people in the world don't use antidepressants.
We don't use antidepressants in Nigeria and most of the African countries. We don't need them to overcome depression, because we have better and more practical treatments.

Yes, stimulants and intoxicants work, but antidepressants don't work. Therefore, you do not need antidepressants for the treatment of anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, eating disorders, etc.

I have always known that antidepressants were mere "make-believe" products of medical spin. The so called "mood brighteners", "joy capsules" or "happiness pills" are simply escapist drugs meant to only give the consumers lucid intervals and sooner or later, they get hooked like junkies. The more junkies hooked on these "fake" drugs, the more millions of dollars the pharmaceutical companies are making daily.

Flush the Prozac, Seroxat and the other SSRIs down the toilet and kiss Eli Lilly goodbye for good.

The following treatments have been found to be the best solutions to your depression or moody blues, because they work.

* Exercise: Helps some people with depression. Douglas Adams, author of "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy", said running helped him cope with depression.

* Friends: Talking through your feelings can help in mild depression with a friend or relative or in a self-help group.

* Cognitive behavioural therapy: Teaches you to challenge negative thoughts and feelings of hopelessness.

* Interpersonal therapy: Focuses on relationships and problems such as difficulties with communication.

* Counselling: Helps you think about the problems in your life and find new ways of dealing with them.

I hardly take pills and my daily drug is drinking three cups of water before breakfast and positive thinking.

I live and work for justice, love and peace.

Good doses of Positive Thoughts are the best antidepressants.

Cheers and God bless you as you learn to live positively everyday and night.

One Hen from Kids Can Press: An Inspiring Story of a Child's Determination to Escape Poverty

26 Feb 2008 11:30 Africa/Lagos


One Hen from Kids Can Press: An Inspiring Story of a Child's Determination to Escape Poverty

CHAPPAQUA, N.Y., Feb. 26 /PRNewswire/ --

While children in Western countries usually don't worry about access to food, shelter, and the opportunity to attend school, three billion people worldwide struggle to live on less than $2 a day. Kids Can Press, publishers of Ryan and Jimmy, One Well, and If the World Were a Village, is known for its books that raise kids' social consciousness. One Hen: How One Small Loan Made a Big Difference, written by Katie Smith Milway and illustrated by Eugenie Fernandes, encourages children ages 7 and up to think about the power we each have to initiate positive changes in the world. In addition, children can play online games to experience the impact a small loan has on a virtual village at www.onehen.org. The One Hen website also features video stories, links to microlending organizations, and special sections for parents, teachers, and librarians.


One Hen tells the story of Kojo, a boy from Ghana who uses the proceeds from a small loan to build a thriving farm. Kojo's story demonstrates the impact that microloans -- a lending system for people in developing countries who have no collateral and no access to conventional banking -- can have on one boy and his community.


At the end of Milway's fictional tale, children learn the true story of Kwabena Darko, the inspiration for One Hen. Mr. Darko built the largest poultry operation in East Africa and now sits on the board of Opportunity International, one of the world's biggest microcredit lending organizations. One Hen also explains the microloan system and offers information about relevant organizations for families to explore.


Author Katie Smith Milway has lived in Africa and worked with village banking programs. "When I stumbled on Kwabena Darko's story, I knew I had found a way to tell children about the power that one small loan can have to change lives," she says. Illustrator Eugenie Fernandes referenced an extensive collection of East African photographs so that her evocative and colorful illustrations would reflect Ghana accurately.


For more information about One Hen and microlending, visit www.onehen.org.


Source: Kids Can Press

CONTACT: Raab Associates Inc. for Kids Can Press, +1-914-241-2117,
info@raabassociates.com


Web site: http://www.onehen.org/


NOTE TO EDITORS: Kwabena Darko available for interviews in New York March 3-4; Katie Smith Milway available on an ongoing basis in Boston and New York.

Love Is Not Whether Others Love Us or Not

There are those who love to make so much drama out of the little foxes of life.

Just live for the love of life and your life will be filled with joy.
We are best when we live on our own terms of reference and not swayed by the transient thoughts of others in transit.
People come and go, and life still goes on

The winds will still blow
The seas will still flow
The fireflies will still glow
The plants will still grow.

No matter what we have said or done
No matter those who have come and gone
Life goes on.
As long as you are still breathing
It is enough for thanksgiving.

Love is all that matters to life.
And love starts from facing the truth in the mirror, the mirror of your heart.

If only we could see life through the eyes of God and not through the eyes of humans.

~ By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima
"Orikinla Osinachi"

All the Winners of the 80th Academy Awards

Daniel Day-Lewis accepts the Oscar for Best Actor for his great role in "There Will Be Blood".
View the Oscar Red Carpet Gallery




Best Actor in a Supporting Role
Javier Bardem

No Country for Old Men

Best Visual Effects

The Golden Compass

Best Animated Film

Ratatouille

Best Short Film (Live Action)

Le Mozart des Pickpockets (The Mozart of Pickpockets)

Best Short Film (Animated)

Peter & the Wolf

Best Costume Design

Elizabeth: The Golden Age

Best Make Up

La Vie en Rose

Best Actress in a Supporting Role

Tilda Swinton-Michael Clayton

Best Documentary Short

Freeheld

Best Documentary Feature

Taxi to the Dark Side

Best Art Direction

Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

Best Music (Score)

Atonement

Best Sound Mixing

The Bourne Ultimatum

Best Music (Song)

Once

Best Sound Editing

The Bourne Ultimatum

Best Foreign Language Film

The Counterfeiters

Best Editing

The Bourne Ultimatum

Best Actor in Leading Role

Daniel Day-Lewis-There Will Be Blood

Best Cinematography

There Will Be Blood

Best Actress in Leading Role

Marion CotillardLa Vie en Rose

Best Adapted Screenplay

No Country for Old Men

Best Original Screenplay

Juno

Best Directing

No Country for Old Men

Best Picture

No Country for Old Men

Tilda Swinton, Winner of The Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress For 'Michael Clayton', Dazzled Everyone Wearing Damiani Jewels

25 Feb 2008 07:30 Africa/Lagos


Tilda Swinton, Winner of The Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress For 'Michael Clayton', Dazzled Everyone Wearing Damiani Jewels

HOLLYWOOD, Calif., Feb. 25 /PRNewswire/ --

DAMIANI, the leading Italian fine jewelry house, was present, once again, at the Academy Awards yesterday as Scottish actress Tilda Swinton accepted her Oscar as Best Actress in a Supporting Role. Ms. Swinton, whose impressive theatre and film career has been recognized the world over with many important awards, wore one-of-a-kind jewels from the famed house.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080225/LAM026-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080225/LAM026-b)

Ms. Swinton's career has made her the recipient of international recognition; other than tonight's great honor -- the greatest for a film star, she has been nominated for and received best actress awards at film festivals around the world and most recently accepted the BAFTA (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) for her role in Michael Clayton, the movie for which she won the Oscar. Damiani has had the honor of receiving an unprecedented eighteen Diamonds International Awards -- the "Oscars of the Diamond Jewelry World." The extraordinarily talented Ms. Swinton wore two one-of-a-kind pieces that have received this award, the Sahara bracelet and the Mimosa Ring. Evoking the dunes of the desert, this bracelet is crafted by hand in 18 Kt. white gold and has 1865 diamonds totaling 47.41 carats; the Mimosa ring has 4.21 carats of flawless Diamonds set in white gold.


Founded in 1924, Damiani is known for its exquisite designs, quality and long tradition of craftsmanship. One of the foremost examples of Made-in-Italy, the Damiani name has become synonymous with spectacular jewelry designs and is favored by international film stars. Damiani was particularly honored by Ms. Swinton's choosing to wear their jewels at this most special of occasions.


For press inquiries contact:

Wendell Figueroa Ruiz
Director of Communications
Damiani USA
Tel. 646/420-2517
E-mail rex@damianiusa.com

Mary Hall Ross
The Ross Group
mary@thereelrossgroup.com
323-935-7600
323-935-7603 F

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080225/LAM026-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080225/LAM026-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN6,7
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Damiani

CONTACT: Wendell Figueroa Ruiz, Director of Communications of Damiani
USA, +1-646-420-2517, rex@damianiusa.com; or Mary Hall Ross of The Ross Group,
+1-323-935-7600, +1-323-935-7603 Fax, mary@thereelrossgroup.com


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

Nominees for Oscars of the 80th Annual Academy Awards

80th Academy Awards - Nominations
LIVE Telecast: Sunday, February 24, 2008



Performance by an actor in a leading role
George Clooney in "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.)
Daniel Day-Lewis in "There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax)
Johnny Depp in "Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" (DreamWorks and Warner Bros., Distributed by DreamWorks/Paramount)
Tommy Lee Jones in "In the Valley of Elah" (Warner Independent)
Viggo Mortensen in "Eastern Promises" (Focus Features)



Performance by an actor in a supporting role
Casey Affleck in "The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (Warner Bros.)
Javier Bardem in "No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage)
Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Charlie Wilson's War" (Universal)
Hal Holbrook in "Into the Wild" (Paramount Vantage and River Road Entertainment)
Tom Wilkinson in "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.)

Performance by an actress in a leading role
Cate Blanchett in "Elizabeth: The Golden Age" (Universal)
Julie Christie in "Away from Her" (Lionsgate)
Marion Cotillard in "La Vie en Rose" (Picturehouse)
Laura Linney in "The Savages" (Fox Searchlight)
Ellen Page in "Juno" (A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production)

Performance by an actress in a supporting role
Cate Blanchett in "I'm Not There" (The Weinstein Company)
Ruby Dee in "American Gangster" (Universal)
Saoirse Ronan in "Atonement" (Focus Features)
Amy Ryan in "Gone Baby Gone" (Miramax)
Tilda Swinton in "Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.)

Best animated feature film of the year
"Persepolis" (Sony Pictures Classics): Marjane Satrapi and Vincent Paronnaud
"Ratatouille" (Walt Disney): Brad Bird
"Surf's Up" (Sony Pictures Releasing): Ash Brannon and Chris Buck

Achievement in art direction
"American Gangster" (Universal): Art Direction: Arthur Max; Set Decoration: Beth A. Rubino
"Atonement" (Focus Features): Art Direction: Sarah Greenwood; Set Decoration: Katie Spencer
"The Golden Compass" (New Line in association with Ingenious Film Partners): Art Direction: Dennis Gassner; Set Decoration: Anna Pinnock
"Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" (DreamWorks and Warner Bros., Distributed by DreamWorks/Paramount): Art Direction: Dante Ferretti; Set Decoration: Francesca Lo Schiavo
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax): Art Direction: Jack Fisk; Set Decoration: Jim Erickson

Achievement in cinematography
"The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford" (Warner Bros.): Roger Deakins
"Atonement" (Focus Features): Seamus McGarvey
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (Miramax/Pathé Renn): Janusz Kaminski
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage): Roger Deakins
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax): Robert Elswit

Achievement in costume design
"Across the Universe" (Sony Pictures Releasing) Albert Wolsky
"Atonement" (Focus Features) Jacqueline Durran
"Elizabeth: The Golden Age" (Universal) Alexandra Byrne
"La Vie en Rose" (Picturehouse) Marit Allen
"Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber of Fleet Street" (DreamWorks and Warner Bros., Distributed by DreamWorks/Paramount) Colleen Atwood

Achievement in directing
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (Miramax/Pathé Renn), Julian Schnabel
"Juno" (A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production), Jason Reitman
"Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.), Tony Gilroy
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage), Joel Coen and Ethan Coen
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax), Paul Thomas Anderson

Best documentary feature
"No End in Sight" (Magnolia Pictures) A Representational Pictures Production: Charles Ferguson and Audrey Marrs
"Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience" (The Documentary Group) A Documentary Group Production: Richard E. Robbins
"Sicko" (Lionsgate and The Weinstein Company) A Dog Eat Dog Films Production: Michael Moore and Meghan O'Hara
"Taxi to the Dark Side" (THINKFilm) An X-Ray Production: Alex Gibney and Eva Orner
"War/Dance" (THINKFilm) A Shine Global and Fine Films Production: Andrea Nix Fine and Sean Fine

Best documentary short subject
"Freeheld" A Lieutenant Films Production: Cynthia Wade and Vanessa Roth
"La Corona (The Crown)" A Runaway Films and Vega Films Production: Amanda Micheli and Isabel Vega
"Salim Baba" A Ropa Vieja Films and Paradox Smoke Production: Tim Sternberg and Francisco Bello
"Sari's Mother" (Cinema Guild) A Daylight Factory Production: James Longley

Achievement in film editing
"The Bourne Ultimatum" (Universal): Christopher Rouse
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (Miramax/Pathé Renn): Juliette Welfling
"Into the Wild" (Paramount Vantage and River Road Entertainment): Jay Cassidy
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage) Roderick Jaynes
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax): Dylan Tichenor

Best foreign language film of the year
"Beaufort" Israel
"The Counterfeiters" Austria
"Katyn" Poland
"Mongol" Kazakhstan
"12" Russia

Achievement in makeup
"La Vie en Rose" (Picturehouse) Didier Lavergne and Jan Archibald
"Norbit" (DreamWorks, Distributed by Paramount): Rick Baker and Kazuhiro Tsuji
"Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" (Walt Disney): Ve Neill and Martin Samuel

Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)
"Atonement" (Focus Features) Dario Marianelli
"The Kite Runner" (DreamWorks, Sidney Kimmel Entertainment and Participant Productions, Distributed by Paramount Classics): Alberto Iglesias
"Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.) James Newton Howard
"Ratatouille" (Walt Disney) Michael Giacchino
"3:10 to Yuma" (Lionsgate) Marco Beltrami

Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song)
"Falling Slowly" from "Once" (Fox Searchlight) Music and Lyric by Glen Hansard and: Marketa Irglova
"Happy Working Song" from "Enchanted" (Walt Disney): Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz
"Raise It Up" from "August Rush" (Warner Bros.): Music and Lyric by Jamal Joseph, Charles Mack and Tevin Thomas
"So Close" from "Enchanted" (Walt Disney): Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz
"That's How You Know" from "Enchanted" (Walt Disney): Music by Alan Menken; Lyric by Stephen Schwartz

Best motion picture of the year
"Atonement" (Focus Features) A Working Title Production: Tim Bevan, Eric Fellner and Paul Webster, Producers
"Juno" (A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production) A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production: Lianne Halfon, Mason Novick and Russell Smith, Producers
"Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.) A Clayton Productions, LLC Production: Sydney Pollack, Jennifer Fox and Kerry Orent, Producers
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage) A Scott Rudin/Mike Zoss Production: Scott Rudin, Ethan Coen and Joel Coen, Producers
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax) A JoAnne Sellar/Ghoulardi Film Company Production: JoAnne Sellar, Paul Thomas Anderson and Daniel Lupi, Producers

Best animated short film
"I Met the Walrus" A Kids & Explosions Production: Josh Raskin
"Madame Tutli-Putli" (National Film Board of Canada) A National Film Board of Canada Production Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski
"Même les Pigeons Vont au Paradis (Even Pigeons Go to Heaven)" (Premium Films) A BUF Compagnie Production Samuel Tourneux and Simon Vanesse
"My Love (Moya Lyubov)" (Channel One Russia) A Dago-Film Studio, Channel One Russia and Dentsu Tec Production Alexander Petrov
"Peter & the Wolf" (BreakThru Films) A BreakThru Films/Se-ma-for Studios Production Suzie Templeton and Hugh Welchman

Best live action short film
"At Night" A Zentropa Entertainments 10 Production: Christian E. Christiansen and Louise Vesth
"Il Supplente (The Substitute)" (Sky Cinema Italia) A Frame by Frame Italia Production: Andrea Jublin
"Le Mozart des Pickpockets (The Mozart of Pickpockets)" (Premium Films) A Karé Production: Philippe Pollet-Villard
"Tanghi Argentini" (Premium Films) An Another Dimension of an Idea Production: Guido Thys and Anja Daelemans
"The Tonto Woman" A Knucklehead, Little Mo and Rose Hackney Barber Production: Daniel Barber and Matthew Brown

Achievement in sound editing
"The Bourne Ultimatum" (Universal): Karen Baker Landers and Per Hallberg
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage): Skip Lievsay
"Ratatouille" (Walt Disney): Randy Thom and Michael Silvers
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax): Christopher Scarabosio and Matthew Wood
"Transformers" (DreamWorks and Paramount in association with Hasbro): Ethan Van der Ryn and Mike Hopkins

Achievement in sound mixing
"The Bourne Ultimatum" (Universal) Scott Millan, David Parker and Kirk Francis
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage): Skip Lievsay, Craig Berkey, Greg Orloff and Peter Kurland
"Ratatouille" (Walt Disney): Randy Thom, Michael Semanick and Doc Kane
"3:10 to Yuma" (Lionsgate): Paul Massey, David Giammarco and Jim Stuebe
"Transformers" (DreamWorks and Paramount in association with Hasbro): Kevin O'Connell, Greg P. Russell and Peter J. Devlin

Achievement in visual effects
"The Golden Compass" (New Line in association with Ingenious Film Partners): Michael Fink, Bill Westenhofer, Ben Morris and Trevor Wood
"Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End" (Walt Disney): John Knoll, Hal Hickel, Charles Gibson and John Frazier
"Transformers" (DreamWorks and Paramount in association with Hasbro): Scott Farrar, Scott Benza, Russell Earl and John Frazier

Adapted screenplay
"Atonement" (Focus Features), Screenplay by Christopher Hampton
"Away from Her" (Lionsgate), Written by Sarah Polley
"The Diving Bell and the Butterfly" (Miramax/Pathé Renn), Screenplay by Ronald Harwood
"No Country for Old Men" (Miramax and Paramount Vantage), Written for the screen by Joel Coen & Ethan Coen
"There Will Be Blood" (Paramount Vantage and Miramax), Written for the screen by Paul Thomas Anderson

Original screenplay
"Juno" (A Mandate Pictures/Mr. Mudd Production), Written by Diablo Cody
"Lars and the Real Girl" (MGM), Written by Nancy Oliver
"Michael Clayton" (Warner Bros.), Written by Tony Gilroy
"Ratatouille" (Walt Disney), Screenplay by Brad Bird; Story by Jan Pinkava, Jim Capobianco, Brad Bird
"The Savages" (Fox Searchlight), Written by Tamara Jenkins

Kisses & Roses Proudly Presents Amina Sade

Name: Amina Sade'
view larger image
Residence: Upstate New York
Place of Birth: St. Johnsville, NY
Vital Stats: 32D-23-34
Weight: 100
Height: 5'5''
Hair: Blonde
Hair Length: Long
Eyes: Hazel
Dress: 2
Shoe: 6
Skin Tone: Tanned


As you all know my name is Amina and I am originally from a small town called St. Johnsville in upstate NY. I am 20 years old and I am a full time student at Empire State College, I am working on B.S in Business Administration. My goal is to receive my PhD in International Business. When I am not at school or work I like to model of course, ride my horses, play polo, go camping, work out, hang out with my friends and most of all shop!!! I just recently started seriously modeling. When I was 3 years old I started dancing, gymnastics, ballet, tap and jazz and that is really what opened the doors for me to the modeling industry.

I traveled the country going to dance competitions and always entered the modeling contests at them. I loved to be on stage performing and loved to be the center of attention. Through dance I was able to acquire the confidence and passion I needed to pursue my ultimate dream of modeling, and here I am. Lastly, I would like to thank all of my friends, family and fans for your continued loyalty and support you have helped me to pursue my dreams and I am forever grateful to you all.




So now that you know a little bit about me, take a look around my site and enjoy!!! Make sure you keep checking back for updates and travel notifications so you know where you can see me next. And also check out the “online store” section of my site where you can purchase personalized autographed 8x10 pictures.

Lindsay Lohan's Imitation of Marilyn Monroe

The same Bert Stern who photographed Marilyn Monroe at the Hotel Bel - Air in 1962 before she died has photographed pretty and sexy actress Lindsay Lohan posing like Marilyn Monroe for the New York Magazine.

FM&B and Kisses & Roses are showing these exclusive photographs for the first time by an African site.

View the complete SlideShow.

Goodbye Aaliyah

Goodbye Aaliyah

Well folks, I am sad to say that Aaliyah sent me a final goodbye and really won't be in my life anymore. I got an email from her saying that she wants to end our relationship and not give me any false hopes. I know I haven't really focused on her and have been going out on all these dates. "I think it's just your way of dealing with the void Aaliyah left," is what Megan had to say. I am truly blessed with friends who really care, and who are always there for me when I need them.

I'm meeting Fred for a screening of a documentary about Iraqi soldiers. Friends like Fred inspire me to do better. They're always striving for change, to make our world a better place. I love hanging around with him. Friends like Megan gives me a support system when I'm in a rut like this, and friends like Rick and Steve makes life fun and interesting to live. They might have their quirky ways, but hey, I'm not innocent either.

Anyway, I have to close here, I need to reply to her email. I'll let you know more about it next week. For the moment of Zen, ponder on this quote from Buddha, "Kindness should become the natural way of life, not the exception." I think I have to spread more kindness, stop focusing on myself so much and be there for my friends... what do you think?

Peace and love,

Bob

Editor, 123Greetings

America's Giving Challenge Inspires More Than 48,000 People From Around the Globe to Donate $1.2 Million Online in Just Fifty Days

21 Feb 2008 06:01 Africa/Lagos


America's Giving Challenge Inspires More Than 48,000 People From Around the Globe to Donate $1.2 Million Online in Just Fifty Days

PARADE Magazine and the Case Foundation to Award an Additional $500,000 to the Charities and Causes of the Fundraising "Champions"

WASHINGTON, Feb. 21 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- PARADE Magazine and the Case Foundation, along with their online donation processing partners, Network for Good and GlobalGiving, announced today the champions of the first-ever America's Giving Challenge.


The Challenge was designed to encourage the charitable use of social networking and Web 2.0 tools and to empower individuals to fundraise and build networks of caring people around the organizations and issues they care about most. During the six weeks of the Challenge, 48,000 unique donors contributed to nearly 700 charities and, with an average donation of $25, the Challenge raised a total of $1.2 million for a combination of US-based charities and globally-oriented causes. PARADE and the Case Foundation will add $500,000 to this total. Four national and four globally-oriented charities will each receive $50,000 for driving the greatest number of unique donors to contribute to their cause. An additional 100 charities will each receive $1,000 for collecting the most total donations for their cause, from all sources, during the Challenge.


PARADE's America's Giving Challenge Winners:
The $50,000 national winners, sponsored through Network for Good, include:

-- Heidi Dormody, Boulder, CO, championed Engineers Without Borders, Inc., Longmont, CO (2979 donations, $60,655 raised, plus $50,000 award);


-- Peggy Padden, Portland, OR, championed Fanconi Anemia Research Fund, Inc., Eugene, OR (2732 donations, $65,522 raised, plus $50,000 award);


-- Stephen Hollister, Tustin, CA, championed IDEA League, Afton, MN (2634 donations, $62,746 raised, plus $50,000 award);


-- Mary Parente, Rockaway, NJ, championed The 11th Hour Animal Rescue Inc., Rockaway, NJ (2448 donations, $54,358 raised, plus $50,000 award).


The $50,000 globally-oriented winners, sponsored through GlobalGiving, include:


-- Michele Martin, Philadelphia, PA, championed the Sharing Foundation/Route Out of Poverty for Cambodian Children, Concord, MA (1650 donations, $41,673 raised, plus $50,000 award);


-- Erin Kelly, Fredericksburg, VA, championed Students Helping Honduras, Fredericksburg (1639 donations, $28,796 funds, plus $50,000 award);


-- Scott Beale, Newark, DE, championed Atlas Service Corps, Washington, DC (1615 donations, $32,021 raised, plus $50,000 award);


-- Suzanne Plopper, Chester, CA, championed Friends of Burkina Faso, Washington, DC (1598 donations, $41,879 raided, plus $50,000 award).


"We were excited to see how many PARADE readers embraced this innovative effort to promote charitable giving," said PARADE President and Publisher Randy Siegel. "We look forward to building upon our first year success and making America's Giving Challenge bigger and better in the years to come."


"We are very pleased by the tremendous response to this initiative and thrilled by the way individuals and smaller nonprofit organizations embraced the Challenge -- and these technologies -- to bring giving into their daily lives and their fundraising efforts," said Case Foundation CEO Jean Case. "We are eager to begin studying the results and to share that information with anyone interested in what we believe is a new phase in the growth and importance of online giving."


The America's Giving Challenge, which started December 13, 2007 and ended January 31, 2008, asked participants to promote their own cause by creating an online charity badge, a so-called "widget" or by donating to others' badges. The widget keeps track of total donations (and dollars) and allowed Network for Good and GlobalGiving to determine the number of unique donors. Participants distributed their badges via email, on Web pages, blogs and social networking sites. Well-distributed messages spread from person to person, creating a web of unique donors that determined the ultimate winners.


Erin Kelly, a student working with Students Helping Honduras, says, "As a student organization working on a cause we feel passionately about -- providing fuel-efficient stoves for families in Honduras -- America's Giving Challenge was a great opportunity to put our ideas out there and find support, from hundreds of individuals who gave through our fundraiser to organizations such as GlobalGiving. This support is enabling us to go from hoping something can happen to being able to make a tangible difference in the lives of the people we work with."


"Winning America's Giving Challenge has energized the staff, the board, and thousands of members and friends of Engineers Without Borders - USA. The Giving Challenge inspired so many people to give -- from the student members who handed out flyers in their college towns telling people how to make a donation online to the board members and staff who e-blasted their entire address books -- all in just 9 days from when we first read about the Challenge in PARADE Magazine," said Heidi Dormody, Director of Development for EWB-USA.


To see a full list of America's Giving Challenge winners, please visit www.Parade.com/givingchallenge or www.casefoundation.org/givingchallenge,


About Parade


PARADE, the most widely read magazine in America, is distributed in more than 400 of the nation's top newspapers. The magazine, which launched in 1941, now has a circulation of 32 million and a readership of 71 million. Each Sunday in PARADE and every day at Parade.com, our mission is to connect emotionally with Americans about the issues they care most about and move them to action. For more information, visit www.parade.com.


About the Case Foundation


The Case Foundation was created by Steve and Jean Case in 1997. The Foundation invests in individuals, nonprofits, and social enterprises that aim to connect people, increase giving, and catalyze civic action. For more information, visit www.casefoundation.org.


About network for good


Network for Good (www.networkforgood.org) is the Internet's leading charitable resource, an easy-to-use, secure Web site that includes detailed listings of more than one million U.S. charities and a searchable database of more than 40,000 volunteer opportunities. Network for Good has raised more than $175 million online for more than 25,000 charities since it was founded in 2001 by AOL, Cisco Systems, and Yahoo!. Network for Good is an independent, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.


About GlobalGiving


GlobalGiving (www.globalgiving.org) enables individuals and organizations to find and direct funds to high-impact, grassroots projects. By aggregating many donors, GlobalGiving is creating a new source of funding for people with innovative solutions to challenging world issues. Corporate partners include eBay, Hewlett-Packard, Gap, Inc., Ford Motor Company Fund, Nike, and The North Face, among others. In addition, major funding partners include Omidyar Network, the Hewlett Foundation, the Skoll Foundation, USAID, and the Sall Family Foundation.


Source: The Case Foundation

CONTACT: Alexis Collado of PARADE,+1-212-450-7014; or Rich D'Amato of
The Case Foundation, +1-202-467-2080


Web Site: http://casefoundation.org/
http://www.globalgiving.org/
http://www.networkforgood.org/



Edit your book in weekly instalments for Free during this month!

How Deep is Your Love? Passion Phones Know

For only a flat fee of 1,500 won ($1.59) a month, a lover can use a mobile phone to measure the passion of his or her sweetheart. The love detector device is the latest feature in high-tech mobile phones in South Korea and used secretly to check the levels of passion in the lover's voice.

Read more details.

Ignoring the Warnings

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

1. Ignoring the Warnings

"Just as man is destined to die once, and after that to face judgment."1

I read about a West Virginia State Trooper who stopped a woman driver for going 15 miles over the speed limit. After handing her a ticket, the driver asked him, "Don't you give out warnings?"

"Yes, ma'am," he replied. "They're all up and down the road. They say, "'Speed Limit 55.'"2

I can imagine that many people—who have rejected God all their life and failed to accept his forgiveness for their sins—when they stand before God at the end of life's journey and are required to give an account of their life and receive God's judgment are going to want to say the same as the lady above: "Don't you give out warnings?"

I can imagine God saying, "Yes, sir/madam, my Word, the Bible, is filled with warnings from cover to cover to prepare for life after death. And every year of your life you were reminded of my offer of forgiveness and eternal life at both Christmas and Easter."

And this is what they will hear God say to them: "I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!"3

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, thank you that you have warned me over and over to prepare to meet you face to face after I die. Please help me to make my life right with you today, to obtain your forgiveness for all my sins and be prepared for life after death. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus' name, amen."

And, Dear friend, if you have never put your life right with God, he is giving you that opportunity today. For God's Invitation go to: http://tinyurl.com/6k49w or for further help to know God go to: http://tinyurl.com/8glq9.

1. Hebrews 9:27 (NIV).
2. from Reader's Digest, "All in a Day's Work," by Patricia Greenlee.
3. Matthew 7:23 (NKJV).

<:))))><

She Saved for 3 Months To Take Her Boyfriend Out for the Valentine

Millions of Zimbabweans could not celebrate the Valentine on February 14, but Shamiso Matema -- who works as a secretary in the city centre -- said she still believed love can conquer all. So the incurable romantic saved up for three months, in order to take her boyfriend out for dinner on Valentine's Day.

Voice of America met with Shamiso Matema before the Valentine's Day.

"Yes I still believe in love," she says. "It's now difficult socially, economically it's difficult to get money, it's difficult to find basic food commodities but we still need love, love keeps us going."

Additionally, Matema says part of her savings will go towards a new outfit and hairdo so she looks spectacular when whispering those magical three little words.
"I love you."

Love Unplugged

I have been found in solitary places
By the wanderlust children of Eden
With the grimaces of forlorn faces
Wandering in the wilderness
The Flower Children of Inverness
Eros, Storge, Pragma, Mania, Agape and Ludus
Like the Fallen Angels from the abyss of Venus
Who have left their burden behind
And freed their mind of all their fears
Wiped away with their cold tears.
For His light has given sight to the blind.
And His kiss has given breath to the earth
And silenced the rage of the furies of wrath.
Come, O wandering daughters of Jove
Come home to the embrace of true love.

Send Thanks For A Great Valentine's Day

Send Thanks For A Great Valentine's Day

Thanks For A Great Valentine's Day [Feb 15]
I have to thank the ladies for a great Valentine today. This morning I walked in the door and all of them surprised me with the biggest Valentine I've ever seen! I mean, it was humongous! Everyone signed it just to cheer me up. I think the main organizer was Donna. I bet she got the message from my newsletter about the baby shower. Maybe she heard from Megan about how down I was.

Well, whatever it was, I'm not complaining. It was really nice of them to cheer me up and have some fun around the office. I might not have a significant O but hey, I have all these lovely ladies cheering me up. And I'm totally open for the market! I guess it all depends on your outlook. If you're down and depressed this VDay season, DON'T BE! Just because you don't have someone doesn't mean you don't have friends. They're good for all seasons, and not just a day in the year. Besides, Valentine's Day is overrated. So, pick yourself by the bootstraps and thank your friends for being there for you through thick and thin. Stop focusing on yourself and start appreciating what you have--well, that's what I'm telling myself anyway.


Saying I Love You

Saying "I love you," is more than just those three little words. It's your whole being, your actions that really count. You didn't think I forgot to tell you about Kate and Jeffrey's romantic weekend did ya? I'm saving the best for last, ha ha! Jokes apart, what Jeffrey proposed to Kate was really, really romantic. You have to know the whole story. First off, he called her and told her that he was sick. Our Kate of course went nuts. She wanted to get chicken soup for the fellow, she wanted to be there and care for him and so on... So she rushed to his place, and what did she find?

Rose petals! Ya, you read it right, a trail of rose petals that went from the door to the dining room. The whole place was lit with candles. "Warm, glowing, orange candlelight," according to her. Kate had this weird glow and a grin on her face when she told us all about it at our Monday catch-up dinner. The chef Jeffrey, maestro of love, was ready with dinner. I mean this guy must've read every book on how to keep a lady happy. He can play music, he can cook, AND he has all the right moves! I'm thinking of taking classes from him! So they had their dinner and he told her that he's really head over heels for her and that he really, really loved her. "I don't know about you, but I want to be exclusive with you," the real love doctor explained, "if you need time to think about it I understand. I'm just letting my feelings be known now, so that we're clear." Of course our Kate was breathless.

What did she answer back? Stay tuned for next week's edition of the Kate-Jeffrey love saga!

Until then, here's a moment of Zen to keep you busy, there's an old proverb my granddad used to say, "People come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime." I'm really glad for Kate. It reminds me of the early days when Aaliyah and I used to date. I was as crazy as Jeffrey then, I still am...

Do you enjoy my newsletters? Recommend them to a friend. I'd really appreciate it. Thanks!

Peace and love,

Bob
Editor, 123 Greetings.

For the Queen of My Heart

My Sweetest,
I have never fallen in love before until I met you
I thought the passion would soon be over,
But I can still feel the heat of the fever
I have never felt like this before
And I am craving for more
Because, I don't want to stop loving you.

You are my Princess and my Queen
The loveliest I have ever seen
The one and only Queen of my heart.

I promise you on this 14th Day of February, 2008
Before heaven and earth
That I will always love you
As long as you believe in our love
Our love will last forever.



7 Places to Take Your Man for Valentine’s


Perfectly good men can be kind of bad when it comes to romance. Maybe it’s your year to take charge—and keep the destination a surprise.

By Rebecca Schoenkopf for MSN City Guides

There are few disappointments for a woman in love like an underwhelming Valentine’s Day. Perhaps I’m unpacking just my own baggage here, but in my wide experience, if a man is properly romantic, it’s because he’s had a lot of practice—sometimes a lot of practice at the same time he’s romancing you. Good men—keepers, not Lotharios—aren’t often well-versed in the rose-petal-scattering arts.

And so the only truly fulfilling Valentine’s Days I’ve ever had have been with the greatest of cads. That is not what I’m recommending here.

Instead of settling for same-old—once again, a prix-fixe dinner at a restaurant that hands out Champagne and a rose, while you’re too heavy and bloated to feel amorous after—why not take your big, dumb, emotionally inarticulate hunk of a man and treat him to the romance, and show him how it’s done? Take the pressure off his well-meaning but kinda lame shoulders—lovingly. Say to that man, “Baby, just you let me worry about it this year.” Make sure to do this without a sneer or a long-suffering sigh; say it with a twinkle (and follow it up with the kind of kiss that can get you pregnant). He will be grateful. And you will be showing him how to reap the rewards of a very self-interested selflessness.

Here are seven places to take your man (buy a blindfold if you need to):

Scent of a (Wo)Man
Unless your man is more than usually metro, chances are he hasn’t experienced the bliss a good esthetician can deliver all while extracting his blackheads. Make your appointment as far as possible in advance for late afternoon on Valentine’s Day, tell the esthetician you’ll be delivering a newbie to her, and drop him off without explanation. (It helps if you’ve told him to clear his schedule.) When you pick him back up an hour and 15 later, his rumpled hair will be matched only by his inner glow (and the glow of 17 layers of moisturizer). If you’re taking him to dinner after, you’ll want to bring him a hairbrush. He won’t have felt this relaxed in years, and you’re the one who made it happen. Love is in the aromatherapy-scented air.


Click here to continue reading

What Do You Wish for the Valentine?

Tomorrow, February 14, is St. Valentine's Day.

I have gone out since yesterday to distribute dozens of copies of my popular book of love, "The Language of True Love” on Bonny Island in the Niger Delta of Nigeria. I gave a copy to a tall and handsome Dutch who gave me a ride in his white jeep from the Nigerian LNG Estate to the Nigerian LNG Roundabout where I distributed more copies of the book to two Igbo vendors of VCDs to sell them. I had a brief discussion with the kind Dutch man before we parted. The Dutch man told me he has been working on Bonny Island since 2005 and happily secured with his wife and children. I told him that I am writer.
"You are a romance writer," he said as he looked at the title and romantic couple on the cover of "The Language of True Love".
"I write more on politics, poems and fiction," I said.
I told him that the peaceful environment of the Nigerian LNG Estate on Bonny Island is very conducive to the peace of mind a writer needs to write serious literature. I wanted to get away from the hustle and bustle of Lagos city or what Thomas Hardy called far from the madding crowd.
He nodded in agreement with me.
I told him that first Dutch man I met when I arrived Bonny Island was Mr. Wilmar Bliek and commended Mr. Bliek's good management of the Nigerian LNG Estate.

There is peace in the Nigerian LNG Estate, but there is violence in most of the host communities as unidentified and well-known militants have been on rampage and held hundreds of foreign oil workers and local oil workers hostage since 2003 with many casualties. Foreign oil workers dare not use the dangerous waterways, because hundreds of them have been kidnapped and later released in exchange for huge ransoms. Some have been killed and thousands have left the volatile Niger Delta for the safe parts of Nigeria. Unidentified gunmen shot and killed two male Naval officers last Monday, whilst they were escorting one of the Nigerian LNG ferries across the Bonny Channel. The management of the Nigerian LNG has suspended the official Ferry Service until further notice and a similar decision was taken last year when militant killed two police officers guarding the passengers and goods on a Nigerian LNG ferry. Dare devil gunmen and militants have forced the management of the Nigerian LNG to use helicopters to fly workers and others over the dangerous waterways to save lives, and use barges for the transportation of goods.
I did not want to discuss the Niger Delta crisis plaguing Nigeria, because I did not want to digress from the topic of our discussion or dampen his cheerful mood on the eve of St. Valentine's Day.
I thanked him as I alighted from the vehicle. I shut the door and he drove off in the direction of the Nigerian LNG Plant Complex in the Industrial Area.

Beware of online Valentine's greetings, because they may contain Internet worm and singles should beware of sex on Valentine's day, because of the rampant cases of STDs and HIV/AIDS.




What do you wish for the Valentine?

I would have loved to be with my one and only Val, Queen, who is far away in Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). I have already bought a rose flower and other gifts meant for her as Christmas presents, but I have not been able to visit her. I have been delayed by unforeseen circumstances, because of the dangers of crossing the sea from Bonny Island to Port Harcourt before going on to Abuja by road or by air. I called her yesterday and told her to be rest assured of my love. I promised to come to Abuja later, she would be satisfied after my visit, and I have called her again today.

I have never loved anyone as I love Queen since I was born.
If I Could...

It started slowly.
Then it continued gradually and before I knew it, I have fallen in love with you.
Love comes either slowly or quickly.
But you will always know that you are simply in love.

40 Million Americans Endure Anxiety Everyday

40 Million Americans Endure Anxiety Everyday

Studies show that only 2 in 5 seek any assistance

MORAGA, Calif., Feb. 12 /PRNewswire/ --

Despite anxiety and stress being one of today's most common disorders, it is regularly under diagnosed by medical professionals, according to the Mental Health America organization, leaving more than 40 million people affected every year.


Most of us experience occasional feelings of anxiety -- muscle tension, headache, nausea, fatigue, or trembling -- before important events such as exams, public speaking, first dates, or during times of stress such as a divorce, job change or a change in residence. Studies conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and the Mayo Clinic have shown that only 2 in 5 people seek any assistance.


However, many individuals are experiencing a more chronic form of anxiety, which has been linked to depression, heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and premature cell aging. New evidence suggests that negative emotions can make people crave fatty, sugary comfort foods, which may lead to obesity and insulin resistance.


There are safe and effective ways to deal with daily stress:

-- Take regular daily breaks to relax and clear your head.
-- Meditate, even for just a few minutes at a time.
-- Exercise daily.
-- Spend time with friends and enjoy family gatherings as often as
possible.
-- Try non-toxic, non-habit-forming medications to help cope with negative
emotions.



Liddell Laboratories, an FDA-approved manufacturer, worked with doctors to design a complete line of fast-acting homeopathic remedies to combat 5 debilitating anxiety related emotions: Anxiety + Tension, Overwhelmed, Loneliness + Sadness, Anger and Postpartum Blues.


Barbara Powers, founder of Liddell Laboratories, says: "I would never offer a product I wouldn't use myself or give to my family. The important Letting Go remedies were developed due to my deep concern about the ominous long-term side effects associated with over-prescribed mainstream antidepressants." Unlike mainstream pharmaceutical drugs, Letting Go products are not habit forming, safe to take with pre-existing medical conditions, and will not interfere with other medications.


ABOUT LIDDELL LABORATORIES


Liddell was founded out of a caring passion for the value of human life, which has motivated Liddell to become an agent of change. Its aim is to empower people with the knowledge necessary to better control their health and to provide important natural, non-toxic therapy options for all. For more information on Liddell Laboratories, please visit the company website at http://www.liddell.net/.


CONTACT


Audrey Hughey, (p) 1-800-460-7733, (f) 1-925-631-7948; ahughey@liddell.net


Source: Liddell Laboratories

CONTACT: Audrey Hughey of Liddell Laboratories, 1-800-460-7733, or fax,
+1-925-631-7948, ahughey@liddell.net


Web site: http://www.liddell.net/

Colours of the Uknown Universe

Colors of the Unknown Universe.
Original Art Work by Orikinla Osinachi

Just concentrate and meditate on what you are thinking as you are viewing it.

No More Fantasy

Amy Winehouse. Photo credit: Mishca Richter

No More Fantasy
For Amy Winehouse

For how long will I sing the same old song?
When I know that something has gone wrong?
For how long will I keep suffering and smiling
When I know that I should be screaming
You see me smile and you think everything is fine
Because, you always want to see me shine.
I must not kiss and tell
To pretend that all is well.

You claim to know me, when you cannot see through me
Because there are many things about me you cannot see.
But God knows we have been lying
And as we are lying, we are dying.
But do you care at all?
Or you just want to see me fall off the wall?

Yes, I know I am still cool
But I will no longer play the fool.
I have to say the bitter truth
And damn the wrath of the earth.
I will no longer take any more prescription pills
Until the wound in my heart heals.
It is time to face the reality
No more, No more fantasy.


N.B:
I composed this song in response to the news of Amy Winehouse winning 5 Grammys last Sunday.

The Special Love Book for the Valentine

The Valentine comes up on Thursday February 14.
Have you sent your sweetheart the special Valentine greetings?
Have you bought the roses and chocolates?

I love to love, because I was born to love.
Love is the heart and soul of life.

"Hatred paralyzes life; love releases it. Hatred confuses life; love harmonizes it. Hatred darkens life; love illuminates it."
~ Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Here is the special love book for the Valentine, "The Language of True Love" on Love, Sex and Relationships.

You can order for copies from anywhere by clicking on the cover image or the title.

If you are in Nigeria, you can get "The Language Of True Love" by Michael Chima on Love, Sex & Relationships, at the following places.

In Lagos.

Glendora Bookshops
Murtala Muhammad International Airport, Ikeja, Lagos.
Falomo Shopping Center, Falomo, Ikoyi, Lagos.

Eminent Supermarket
3, Bajulaiye Road, Shomolu, Lagos.

Flonnal Limited
1, Bajulaiye Road, Shomolu, Lagos.

Port Harcourt, Rivers State

Rainbow Bookshop, 20 Igbodo Street, Old GRA, Port-Harcourt.

Bonny Island, Rivers State

Delight Household Goods Supermarket
Mongolo Shopping Centre, Finima,
Bonny.

The Love of My Dreams

She was relaxing on her coach in a white silk sleeveless blouse and knee-length black silk pants with her head resting on a small pillow.
"Please, I want to read that your poetry book," I said to her.
"Ohoooh. It is at the bottom of the box," she said, making a face with the grimace of her reluctance to rise up and get me the anthology.
"Please," I said lovingly as I stood over her.
"What will you give me if I bring it?" She asked.
"I will give you anything you ask for," I promised.
The montage of the gifts I was keeping for Queen crossed my mind.
The scented red rose flower, embroidered face towel, stockings, sleep mask, all weather jacket, etc.
I was wondering what she would ask for.
"Love," she said with a smile.
I gazed at her as she looked up at me.
"I want you to love me," she said.
I looked at her beautiful face.
Imagine a combination of the best features of Halle Berry and Tyra Banks. She looked more beautiful than both of them.
Her her long brown hair glowing from the crown of her oval head to her slender shoulders.
She was looking more beautiful and wonderful than the Nigerian Darego Agbani, the former Miss World.
I bent over her and planted my brown lips on her succulent brown lips and it was as if our lips fused as we kissed passionately.
Then she rose happily from her coach and smiled.
Gosh! If only you have seen the perfect African beauty.
She was standing tall and her golden brown skin made her to shine in the natural light of the sunrays in the patio.
I admired her from her head to her feet. She had a perfect backside and I could see that she had perky breasts.
She was going to get me the book of poems.
Oh, lovely Muse of my poetry.

Could Divorce Destroy Your Business?

6 Feb 2008 09:00 Africa/Lagos


Could Divorce Destroy Your Business?

LONDON, February 6/PRNewswire/ --

2008 will be the "Year of the Postnup", according to family law specialists at online law firm, Agreements.co.uk, following a string of cases indicating judicial support for private agreements regulating finances within marriage. This January, Lord Justice Thorpe ruled that couples who try to back out of private financial agreements are now stuck with them unless they can show good cause why they should not be followed.


Like prenups, post-nuptial agreements deal with the difficult issue of how to divide money and property if a marriage goes sour, but are taken out during marriage rather than before. However postnups are subject to particular judicial scrutiny as to motive - spouses making threats if not signed, inducements if signed, those taking unfair advantage or trying to divorce on the cheap need not apply.


With the divorce courts' starting point now being an equal split - a worrying prospect for ex-Beatle, Sir Paul McCartney, who stands to lose a fortune if his divorce goes to trial - lawyers are reporting an unprecedented demand from couples taking out both prenups and postnups to soften the financial impact of divorce.


Postnups are even insisted upon by some hedge fund managers who now refuse to take on new partners until they sign one barring their spouses from making any claims on the fund.


Business is rife with risk - whether from competition, market fluctuations or plain bad luck. But what is often overlooked is the effect divorce has on a successful business. Usually funding a divorce settlement necessitates the sale of some or all of a business to accommodate the 50/50 share of overall assets that the courts now impose within divorce.


So could your business be wiped out by divorce? Statistically, in the UK, you are more likely to divorce than to stay married for life. So the bad news for any divorcing entrepreneurs is that your spouse may be entitled to half or more of the value of your business - irrespective of whether it was yours before marriage.


However there are legal solutions that the courts are now following (subject to following the correct protocols). The 'prenup' (taken out before marriage) and the 'postnup' (during).


Website, postnups.co.uk, puts prospective clients through a rigorous online 'Post-nuptial Agreement Evaluation' to ascertain their motives before agreeing to draft a postnup. "The courts have spelled out what they won't accept, and unless a couple's motives tick all the right boxes, we cannot agree to act", explains Mark Andrew, their Agreements Coordinator.


So what's the cost of having a postnup? Between GBP1,500 and GBP3,000 from most family law solicitors, and GBP450.00 online at http://www.postnups.co.uk (Tel: 0800-1955500)


http://www.prenuptialagreements.co.uk


http://www.postnuptialagreements.co.uk


Source: Agreements.co.uk Limited

Mark Andrew LL.B (Hons.), Agreements.co.uk Limited, Agreements Coordinator, Direct line: +44-(0)20-7235-3180, mark.andrew@agreements.co.uk

"Valentine's Day 10-point plan."

5 Feb 2008 18:50 Africa/Lagos


Going Solo on Valentine's Day?

No Need to Forego Love, Celebrity Divorce Attorney/Author Offers Tips

LOS ANGELES, Feb. 5 /PRNewswire/ --

Celebrity divorce attorney and author, Stacy D. Phillips, says if you're single or alone no need to feel left out or forfeit love this Valentine's Day. Phillips suggests implementing one or more of the suggestions from her "Valentine's Day 10-point plan."


Though the concept of 'love and be loved' is commonly expressed among many romantic couples through a variety of Valentine's Day customs, Phillips says, those who are not presently involved in close, intimate relationships can also participate in the one day of the year that emphasizes giving and receiving love. "Get pro-active," Phillips asserts. "There are so many wonderful things you can do for yourself to feel loved and special during this once yearly 'hallmark' occasion." Phillips' tips on her punch list (some require a healthy sense of humor) include:


1. Create your own valentine web site: If http://www.bemyvalentine.com/
has been taken, create another. Nothing too personal. People will
respond.
2. Photoshop yourself with your favorite celebrity: Make a card out of
it, send it to yourself. Display it. Gloat.
3. Visit http://www.classmates.com/ Surprise some old school pals by
sending some valentines. Enjoy what they send back.
4. Hit the tattoo parlor: Large or small, get one that says "I love you."
It's a lifetime reminder of what you mean to you.
5. Clip a coupon: The word love must be on it. Now, buy and mail that
item to yourself. Act surprised.
6. Go to an animal shelter: Hang out with a dog or cat for the day. Feel
the love.
7. Customize candy: Find a candymaker that will inscribe little heart
candies with your messages. Eat them and smile.
8. Rent bad-breakup movies: Watch and give thanks the story isn't yours.
9. Go to Disneyland: No on the gondola or Matterhorn. Try "Small World,"
it's about universal love.
10. Who's your Mama, who's your Daddy?: Ladies call dad; men call Mom.
Ask: Will you be my valentine this year? They will never say no!


Stacy D. Phillips, book, Divorce: It's All About Control - How to Win the Emotional, Psychological and Legal Wars, is at http://www.amazon.com/ and all book stories throughout the country.


Source: Stacy D. Phillips

CONTACT: Cherie Kerr, +1-714-550-9900, cheriekerr@aol.com, or Jennifer
Lee, kerrpr@aol.com, both of KerrPR for Stacy D. Phillips

Are Social Networking Sites Endangering Young Teens? Study Finds Maybe Not

5 Feb 2008 02:55 Africa/Lagos


Are Social Networking Sites Endangering Young Teens? Study Finds Maybe Not

SANTA ANA, Calif., Feb. 4 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

Youth may be more likely victimized while using instant messenger and visiting chat rooms than while using social networking sites, new research this week reports.


The study, conducted by child health researchers Michele Ybarra of Internet Solutions for Kids and Kimberly Mitchell of the University of New Hampshire, set out to look at the places online where youth are most likely to experience sexual solicitation and harassment. The researchers, whose study is published in Pediatrics, found that among the almost 1600 children and adolescents 10-15 years-old surveyed nationally, 4% reported experiencing an unwanted sexual solicitation and 9% reported being harassed while on a social networking site. Solicitations were reported 59% more often in instant messaging however, and 19% more often in chat rooms than social networking sites. More surprising, harassments were reported 96% more often in instant messaging than in social networking sites. "Are victimizations happening in social networking sites? Yes," Ybarra explains, "but they're happening with greater frequency in instant messaging and chat rooms."


The authors say the results serve as a warning for parents not to focus exclusively on social networking sites. "Internet safety is not just about whether your child is on MySpace or not. You should know what your children are doing on MySpace and Facebook. But you also need to know what your children are doing in school, after school, at parties, at the mall, online - basically all environments in which they engage. You can't just focus on one place and assume that your job is done."


An estimated 15% of children and adolescents are targeted by unwanted sexual solicitation each year, including being asked to talk about sex, provide personal sexual information, or engage in sexual behavior online when they do not want to. Depending on the type of harassment and the age of the children surveyed, 9-30% of youth are harassed yearly. Current events have raised public awareness and concern about the risks young people face when they are in social networking sites. Most recent was the case of Megan Meier, a teenager who committed suicide after her online 'boyfriend', an adult pretending to be her age, broke up with her. In an effort to protect the safety of children and adolescents, various laws have been proposed such as requiring social networking sites to introduce software capable of age verification.


The latest study is good news for parents, Ybarra says. The majority of young people using the Internet are never harassed and never experience unwanted sexual solicitation. This includes social networking sites. Adults also need to understand that for many youth, Ybarra advises, their online world is an extension of their offline world. "Young people experiencing problems online are often experiencing problems offline as well. We need to make sure that we are giving them the support and tools to healthfully navigate across all environments, both online and offline."


Source: Internet Solutions for Kids

CONTACT: Joe Schwab, Internet Solutions for Kids, +1-877-302-6858,
joe@ISolutions4Kids.org


Web site: http://www.is4k.com/

'How Great Thou Art: Gospel Favorites Live from the Grand Ole Opry'

E GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY EVANS GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY EVANSSara Evans performs on the Opry Stage during GAC's 'How Great Thou Art: Gospel Favorites Live from the Grand Ole Opry.' Photo credit: Chris Hollo.(PRNewsFoto/Great American Country/Chris Hollo) NASHVILLE, TN UNITED STATES 02/01/2008

1 Feb 2008 21:32 Africa/Lagos


'How Great Thou Art: Gospel Favorites Live from the Grand Ole Opry'

Country Music's Best Perform Gospel Music's Most Enduring Classics on Great American Country Special

NASHVILLE, Tenn., Feb. 1 /PRNewswire/ --

The ties that bind country and gospel music shine in How Great Thou Art: Gospel Favorites Live from the Grand Ole Opry, a 90-minute television special celebrating songs from an RCA Records album of the same name, debuting Saturday, February 9 (8 p.m. ET) on Great American Country (GAC).


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080201/CLF068-a)
(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080201/CLF068-b)


E GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY PAISLEY GREAT AMERICAN COUNTRY PAISLEYACM and CMA Award winner Brad Paisley performs on the Ryman Stage. Photo credit: Chris Hollo. (PRNewsFoto/Great American Country/Chris Hollo) NASHVILLE, TN UNITED STATES 02/01/2008


"I think there's a great relationship between country music and gospel music because country music is about both sides of the coin. It's about having a great time on Saturday, but it's also about asking for a little forgiveness ... or for probably many of us, a lot of forgiveness on Sunday," notes country star Dierks Bentley.


Bentley joins stars like reigning ACM and CMA Female Vocalist of the Year Carrie Underwood, the legendary Loretta Lynn, Vince Gill, Sara Evans, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins, Ronnie Milsap, and Charlie Daniels for an evening of classic gospel performances from country music's most famous stage, the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.


"In country music, people are proud of their faith and I think that's really amazing. It's part of the reason I love country music so much," says Underwood who performs the special's title track "How Great Thou Art."


Other performances include Gill's "Give Me Jesus," Bentley's "A House Of Gold," Loretta Lynn's "Where No One Stands Alone," Trace Adkins' "Wayfaring Stranger," Milsap's "Precious Lord, Take My Hand," and Evans' "Just A Closer Walk With Thee."


"How Great Thou Art" also includes performances from the stage of the Mother Church of Country Music, the Ryman Auditorium. Reigning ACM and CMA Male Vocalist of the Year Brad Paisley performs "The Old Rugged Cross" which he also sang during his induction to the Grand Ole Opry in 2001 and Ricky Skaggs and The Whites perform "Family Bible."


Like many artists, Evans grew up singing hymns in church. "Historically, gospel has played a large part in the Grand Ole Opry, and I'm very honored to be a part of the album and the GAC special."


For the special, Opry Music Director Steve Gibson assembled an all-star band of Nashville session A-listers including John Hobbs on piano, Brent Mason on guitar, Stuart Duncan on fiddle and mandolin, Paul Franklin on steel and dobro and Paul Leim on drums.


GAC is the exclusive television provider of performances from titles on the RCA Records CD How Great Thou Art: Gospel Favorites From The Grand Ole Opry, which will release in stores on February 5.


About Great American Country (GAC)


Great American Country is the leader in country music entertainment. GAC delivers to viewers the widest variety of country music, its artists and the lifestyles they influence. GAC broadcasts original country music programming, country music performance specials, live concerts, music videos, and is the exclusive television home of the Grand Ole Opry. GAC is available in more than 52.6 million households and online at http://www.gactv.com/.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080201/CLF068-a
http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080201/CLF068-b
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
Source: Great American Country

CONTACT: Elle Butler for Great American Country (GAC), +1-615-327-7562,
ebutler@gactv.com


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