Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Naomi Campbell Hugs Hugo Chavez



Ex-supermodel Naomi Campbell arrived Caracas yesterday to hobnob with President Hugo Chavez of Venezuela.

"I've been here before actually," she said.
"A beautiful country, very tropical. You've got great waterfalls."



"I'm not going to be political. Thank you very much," she told reporters before going into the Presidential Palace to hug President Hugo Chavez.



President Hugo Chavez has hosted other stars, including actor Kevin Spacey, Sean Penn and Danny Glover.

Naomi Campbell really needs the big hug of Hugo Chavez and would come out of the Presidential Palace a richer woman.

I am yet to get the photograph of their meeting from our paparazzi.

Monday, October 29, 2007

Paris Hilton Dumps Alex



My darling Paris Hilton seems to have overheard me and did it.
She has dumped the former Pizza Delivery Guy turned model Alex Vaggo.



The 20-year-old Swedish tourist was a pizza delivery boy living in a $29(£14.50)-a-night Los Angeles hostel when Paris met him and lifted him out of his poor background to the higher class of her celebrity.

"(Thanks to her) I'm modelling, taking meetings, going to clubs, eating at great restaurants and living the high life. It's amazing. She's changed my life in every way."

But he has been intimidated by her upper class status and failed to live up to her expectations. She says Alex is not man enough for her.



1,000 Pictures of Paris Hilton

Sunday, October 28, 2007

Time After Time


"Live as long and as well as you can and help others achieve the same, what happens thereafter or how people choose to see you is beyond your making."

~ Bill Clinton


Time After Time

Time is not on the clock
For even when the clock stops ticking
Time does not stop moving.
For time waits for no one.

Our destinies are not in the stars
But in our own hands.

Everybody has a chance to make a choice
And chances depend on the circumstances.
But whenever you have the chance
Choose wisely, for all choices have their consequences.

A Common Destiny for All

1. So I reflected on all this and concluded that the righteous and the wise and what they do are in God's hands, but no man knows whether love or hate awaits him.

2. All share a common destiny—the righteous and the wicked, the good and the bad, [a] the clean and the unclean, those who offer sacrifices and those who do not.
As it is with the good man,
so with the sinner;
as it is with those who take oaths,
so with those who are afraid to take them.
3. This is the evil in everything that happens under the sun: The same destiny overtakes all. The hearts of men, moreover, are full of evil and there is madness in their hearts while they live, and afterward they join the dead.

4. Anyone who is among the living has hope —even a live dog is better off than a dead lion!

5. For the living know that they will die,
but the dead know nothing;
they have no further reward,
and even the memory of them is forgotten.

6. Their love, their hate
and their jealousy have long since vanished;
never again will they have a part
in anything that happens under the sun.

7. Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for it is now that God favors what you do.

8. Always be clothed in white, and always anoint your head with oil.

9. Enjoy life with your wife, whom you love, all the days of this meaningless life that God has given you under the sun— all your meaningless days. For this is your lot in life and in your toilsome labor under the sun.

10. Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the grave, [c] where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.

11. I have seen something else under the sun:
The race is not to the swift
or the battle to the strong,
nor does food come to the wise
or wealth to the brilliant
or favor to the learned;
but time and chance happen to them all.

12. Moreover, no man knows when his hour will come:
As fish are caught in a cruel net,
or birds are taken in a snare,
so men are trapped by evil times
that fall unexpectedly upon them.

Wisdom Better Than Folly

13. I also saw under the sun this example of wisdom that greatly impressed me:

14. There was once a small city with only a few people in it. And a powerful king came against it, surrounded it and built huge siegeworks against it.

15. Now there lived in that city a man poor but wise, and he saved the city by his wisdom. But nobody remembered that poor man.

16. So I said, "Wisdom is better than strength." But the poor man's wisdom is despised, and his words are no longer heeded.

17. The quiet words of the wise are more to be heeded
than the shouts of a ruler of fools.

18 Wisdom is better than weapons of war,
but one sinner destroys much good.

~ Ecclesiastes 9

Child Pornography Online Increasing?



The Internet Watch Foundation recently sponsored an awareness day to make people aware of the problems of child pornography. Bigger companies like Yahoo and MSN supported the day by running advertisements. WebProNews digs deeper into the world of child pornography online; we talked with author of Profiling Violent Crimes, Sex Crimes, and Serial Murder, Dr. Ronald Holmes about the issues facing child pornography online. For more interesting facts about it or Dr. Holmes, keep watching Webpro News.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Happy Birthday Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton!



Happy Birthday to Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton, who begins a New Year today!
She is a year older this Friday and I am happy for the former First Lady of the United States of America.




Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton is a beautiful and wonderful lady who is the melody of love in the life of her great husband, Bill Clinton, the former President of the U.S.A and their family.

I wish her many happy returns of the day with longer life and more prosperity by the infinite Grace of God in Jesus Christ our Lord, who makes all things possible.

I wish her all the best in her quest to become the First Female President of the United States of America.

I support Hillary Rodham Clinton for President.

Her campaign manager, Lady Patti Solis Doyle sent me the following mail and I am asking you to join me and send Happy Birthday Wishes To Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton.

--------
Dear Orikinla,

Here's one of my favorite stories about celebrating Hillary's birthday.

It was her first birthday as First Lady. After all the talk of her changing hairstyles during the campaign, the staff thought it would be funny to surprise her by dressing up as different "Hillarys" -- there was Headband Hillary, Campaign Hillary, Lawyer Hillary, Short-Hair Hillary. I was the 1992 Democratic Convention Hillary -- with the sassy haircut.

This year, I hope we'll start a new tradition: sharing birthday wishes from thousands upon thousands of her supporters. Will you help me get this started by sending Hillary your birthday message today?

Sign Hillary's birthday card:

Even in the midst of an intense campaign, this is a moment for me to stop and reflect about someone who is not just an inspiring leader, but a treasured personal friend. A friend who has been there for me, a friend who has taught me so much about dedication and accomplishment and loyalty and trust.

I'm proud to say that this is the 16th birthday wish that I've sent to Hillary, and this year it's simple: that she continue to make my job easy by being such a great candidate! I know this is one wish sure to come true.

Do you have a birthday wish you want to share with Hillary? Send it to her today.
Click here to send.

Thank you so much for all your support for Hillary, and for helping to make her birthday so special.

Sincerely,


Patti Solis Doyle
Campaign Manager
Hillary for President

P.S. Do you have any friends or family who have a birthday message for Hillary? Forward this email and tell them to send her a message: Click to send yours now
............

God bless you as you do so.

California Wildfires: How You Can Help from Anywhere

California Wildfires: How You Can Help from Anywhere

Direct donations remain the most powerful way to make a difference. In addition, however, new websites are providing even more ways to make an impact.

SAN DIEGO, Oct. 24 /PRNewswire/ --

As wildfires continue to ravage Southern California, many Americans are searching for ways to help the millions of Californians affected by this disaster.


For organizations responding to the needs of the wildfire victims, monetary donations remain the most powerful way to make a difference. Thanks to the internet, making a donation is now easier than ever. The American Red Cross, for example, accepts donations through their website at www.redcross.org.


Fortunately, however, giving no longer has to stop with writing a check. One new website, SmartRaise.com, is giving internet users everywhere an additional way to make an impact in California. SmartRaise works with hundreds of leading online retailers to generate charitable donations whenever its members shop online. Membership is completely free.


SmartRaise has designated a special fund to help raise money for the victims of the California wildfires. This fund allows individuals to raise money whenever they shop with the stores listed at SmartRaise.com. Shoppers pay the same prices they always would and get to help make a difference with every purchase they make.


All funds raised for this cause will be donated to the American Red Cross and directed for use in the California wildfires disaster. SmartRaise has also pledged to donate an additional 20% on top of any amount that is raised for this cause through its program. SmartRaise.com is not officially associated with or endorsed by the American Red Cross.


For complete information, or to participate, visit http://www.smartraise.com/california.


Source: SmartRaise.com

CONTACT: Robert J. Moore, +1-856-308-9661, bob@smartraise.com


Web site: http://www.smartraise.com/california
http://www.smartraise.com/

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Outrage in South Africa: Man Rapes A 3 Year Old Baby Girl

Outrage in South Africa

Last week a 3 year old girl in South Africa was beaten and raped. She is still alive. The man
responsible was released on bail yesterday. He is walking the streets.

If you are too busy to read this, then just sign your name and forward this on.

The Government is planning to close the child protection unit and this is a petition against it. This is a very important petition. It is an essential part of the justice system for children.

You may have already heard that there's a myth in South Africa that having sex with a virgin will cure AIDS.
The younger the virgin, the more potent the cure. This has led to an epidemic of rapes by infected males, with the correspondent infection of innocent kids. Many have died in these cruel rapes.

Recently in Cape Town , a 9-month-old baby was raped by 6 men.

Please think about that for a moment. The child abuse situation is now reaching catastrophic proportions and if we don't do something, then who will?

Please pass this on to as many people as you know.
Send your petition to childprotectpca@saps.org.za

Please don't be complacent, do something about the kids of South Africa . You can make a difference. That child is fighting for ife.

This is just 1 of the million cases of child abuse, so please pledge your support and help keep CPU (CHILD PROTECTION UNIT) open.

Please give your support to the petition and ensure that it goes to as many people as possible. Please don't just leave it, make a difference.


By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima
Publisher/Editor
Nigerian Times International Online Media Network

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

3,000 Candlelights

3,000 Candlelights


We Will Never Forget

Will you remember me on every 9/11?
Will you light a candle for me?
For without the light we cannot see
What mortal eyes have never seen.

No. Don't weep for me anymore
No. Don't pray for the dead.
For the dead do not need your prayers
.

"What I had, I lost; what I saved, I spent; but what I gave, I have."
~ Mattie Terri Shackelford

We Will Never Forget
No! Never ever.
Though the scarlet memories may linger
Though the flowers may wither
But we will never forget
Until this world will be no more.

Nosotros nunca nos Olvidaremos

¿Recordará me usted en cada 9/11? ¿Encenderá usted una vela para mí? Para sin la luz nosotros no podemos ver Qué ojos de mortal nunca han visto.

No. no llora para mí ya No. no ora para el muerto. Para el muerto no necesita sus oraciones.

"Lo que tuve, perdí; lo que salvé, gasté; pero lo que dí, tengo." -Mattie Terri Shackelford

¡Nosotros nunca nos Olvidaremos no! Jamás. Aunque las memorias escarlatas pueden demorar Aunque las flores
pueden marchitar Pero nosotros nunca nos olvidaremos hasta que este mundo no será más.


Nobody spoke a word as the credits rolled on the screen. But I could hear muffled sounds of sobs near me. Lesleen held my right hand tightly until they turned on the lights and we silently left the hall. As we entered our car and sat down, I used my fingers to wipe away her tears. The last time I wept was at the burial of my mother 14 years ago. And I made up my mind never to weep again. I comforted her for a while before I inserted the key into the ignition and jiggled the steering wheel as I turned the key to start the car. I drove out of the parking lot of Main Street Cinema with the head of LesIeen on my shoulder. I was still thinking about the closing scene of the film.
Why should the director include the 19 suicide bombers in his memorial candle lights?
And he showed us their bereaved families also mourning them. Those bastards killed
2,974 innocent people in a day and more died later from the respiratory diseases caused by exposure to WTC dust. Over 40, 000 people, including 10,000 firefighters from Fire Department of New York (FDNY) were exposed to environmental toxins at Ground Zero. And two years later, Ms. Reeve died of mesothelioma. Firefighters Stephen Johnson, Walter Voight and Joseph Costello and EMTs Timothy Keller and Felix Hernandez have died from cancers linked to respiratory diseases. And the unrepentant Al Quaeda is still thinking of repeating the catastrophe. The hijackers don't deserve any memorial. The devils are already burning in hell.
I hissed and turned back from the direction of our home.
"Where are we going?" Lesleen asked.
"To Gound Zero."
"I am tired and I want to go to bed," she said plaintively.
"There is enough time to sleep. Don't worry. I will make sure that you don't have nightmares," I said.
"How?"
"You just relax until we return home," I replied and smiled.

At Ground Zero, we were not alone. A memorial ceremony was in progress and I could count over a 100 people milling around with candlelights. We joined them and a man wearing a brown hat stepped out from the crowd and handed us two white candles.
"You have got a lighter?" The elderly man asked.
"Yes. Thank you sir," I replied.
"But, do you know the real figure of those who died?" He asked us.
"2, 993," I replied.
He shook his head.
He handed me a piece of white paper and we read what was printed on it.

CONFIRMED DEAD: 2948 •
REPORTED DEAD: 24 •
REPORTED MISSING: 24 •
TOTAL: 2996

"But we believe that 3, 000 must have died," he said.
Lesleen and I nodded.
Minus those 19 devils, I said within me.
We lit our candles and joined the procession.

Monday, October 22, 2007

With Love From My Toilet



I love you heart and soul.
I love you anytime, everytime, and all the time.
I love you, fair and foul.
I love from the kitchen to the dining room
From the living room to the bedroom.
And I love you even when I am in the toilet.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Oprah's Thyroid Condition

The hottest discussion on the Daily Blabber last weekend was Oprah Winfrey's thyroid condition that is making her over weight.
"My body was turning on me. First hyperthyroidism, which sped up my metabolism and left me unable to sleep for days. Then hypothyroidism, which slowed down my metabolism and made me want to sleep all the time," Oprah said.

Join the discussion on the Daily Blabber.

I wish Oprah fast recovery and total restoration of her health, because health is wealth.

You are as wealthy as you are healthy.

Friday, October 19, 2007

Sacramento



Sacramento

You are still in my memories
Sacramento
I still recollect the colorful reveries
Sacramento
I remember the good old days
Sacramento
Before we went our separate ways
Sacramento
In the heat of the night
Sacramento
Serenading in the moonlight
You were one of a kind
Sacramento
Your smiling face still flashes on my mind
Sacramento
I remember your ringing laughter
Sacramento
Until the day of the disaster
Sacramento
I saw you drenched in the rain
Sacramento
And I never heard your laughter again.
Sacramento
Even if our dreams don’t come true
Sacramento
I will never forget you.
Sacramento.


N.B:
"Sacramento" is a love song I composed years ago and yet to record it. I have to sing it myself, because I don't think anyone can express the spirit of the song better than me.
The last song I recorded is "She Comes On Sundays", performed by a Nigerian R & B group. I have only given a copy of the CD to the BBC Radio, after the broadcast during an interview on my performance poetry in April 2003. I recorded my first song "Hardway To Broadway" in 1984. It was recorded in the US and it is available in the Library of Congress.

"Sacramento" tells a story of a very romantic and passionate love affair that was cut short after a tornado, but the memory continued to linger.

Paris Hilton: "I Feel Empty Inside"

My darling Paris Hilton says she feels unfulfilled and empty and I am really worried about that.
Blabber: Paris Hilton's Running on Empty Britney Spears is booked for a hit-and-run, Slash of Guns N' Roses releases a memoir, and Paris Hilton tells 'Newsweek' she feels "empty inside."


Read on...

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Scarlet Tears of London on Barnes & Noble


Scarlet Tears of London

by Orikinla Osinachi

Paperback)
Publisher: Lulu.com
Pub. Date: July 2006
ISBN-13: 9781847280510
Sales Rank: 289,854
100pp

BUY THIS ITEM BY CLICKING ON THE COVER PICTURE OF THE BOOK.
$10.00 Online price
$9.00 Member price

Usually ships within 24 hours

Slide Show of Celebrity Post-Baby Beauties


Celebrity Post-Baby Bodies


Body After Baby

by Tracy Pepey

The average pregnant woman prays she'll get her pre-baby body back sometime before her kid heads to college. But not these celebrity moms—they've defied the odds and whipped themselves into shape before their star kids were out of diapers. Check out our slideshow of Hollywood's hot mamas who lost their baby weight—and gained our admiration.
Click on the higlighted links for more.

Change Your Life Day and Have Your Sweetest Day

I always enjoy the mails from Bob, the Editor, 123Greetings newsleter.

I am glad to share the latest newsletter with you.

I am dedicating three of the four special days to three of the most popular female bloggers in the Nigerian blogosphere, Bella Naija, Queenzy and Linda Ikeji.

Happy Change Your Life Day!

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Hey people! I'm not like a full moon that comes once a month, but am like stars; just that don't look for me at the space, but the virtual one, the web space. I'm all over it… Now, I'm with your weekly dose of fun!

Here we go………


Change Your Life Day [Oct 19]
For
Bella Naija

When you step on the accelerator just about when you are gonna take a turn, it isn't exactly a wise thing to do. Ask me?! Well, I was the one who hit the bumper. I was jaywalking down the lane when the above-said maneuver was attempted and I was thrown across the pavement. I was conscious enough to understand the EMS sounds and the white-coated docs, but when they chattered about how I would lose or dislocate my left arm if it isn't held in a particular position I almost went unconscious. From the corner of my eye I could see some John Doe hold my hand. For all the 15 minutes it took I was just concentrating on my arm, not to move it even an inch; of course, he was holding it just right. I recuperated and came out in one piece after a few weeks. One day I happened to pass by the same hospital again and saw that this guy was involved in yet another emergency case. He was moving with concern and determination, written large on his face as if his life depended on it. I know, I paid my bills, paid my insurance its dues, and thanked my friends and family who were by my side when I was recuperating. But what about this guy, a virtual nobody, who is concerned and fighting it out there with no credentials as a doctor, but just a nurse. He doesn't care if he's paid the price of a life he has saved or waits for a pat. He is just another male that fills up the hospital floor. Mere number! At least for me! "Hey, he saved your arm!" I heard it loud this time. It came from within my heart. Found him in the Nurses Station in a relaxed mood for a change. He looked surprised. I don't know when was the last time he saw a patient walking in perfect health, come to him. I profoundly thanked him and even gave him a hug. I guess he was embarrassed. I know why. He never expected it. Nobody is inferior and everybody deserves a word of gratitude. Life is made of precious little moments like this and more often than not every single moment has a lesson or two, which could change our lives.

Mammography Day [Oct 19]
For all the women who need tender loving care at such a time as this.

Kate's mom, Diane, adores Aaliyah. She likes to shop with Aaliyah and likes her humility and choice of clothes. No wonder that Aaliyah too likes her a lot. Diane had mentioned to Aaliyah about a lump in her breast and Aaliyah has immediately fixed up an appointment for a mammogram. Diane was petrified, but touched by the gesture. Aaliyah wanted me to accompany them. I have a pin and needle phobia, but if your girlfriend asks you out even if it's to the coroner….go! That's my policy, I guess, it's universal?! Anyways, I was there and there instead of leafing through the magazines that teaches taboo things, I took a look at the chart. Man! I was so ignorant. I never knew much about breast cancer and the mortality rates and radiation therapy. This one is pretty serious. Well, the good news is Diane was carrying a benign lump and a simple extraction would do. But she is happy that she got a confirmation and has promised to come for a routine mammogram at the right intervals. I made sure I would pass on the information to my mom and ignorant ladies I know. Hey! No embarrassment there…it's a disease and there should be awareness….Aaliyah sides with me here…she goes, "Hey Bob's pals, innocence is sweet, but ignorance is crime." Did you hear that?! Go the Bob way, listen to the lady!


Sweetest Day [Oct 20]
For
The Adventures Of A Young Adult

Meggy has a habit. She is a choc-freak and everyone knows it. The adage goes, "women can't open boxes." Well, I don't really agree with that, but women do fill them up for sure. Meggy has boxes and boxes full of chocs and sweets that she has piled up over the months. That's her personal domain and no-entry-zone for everyone. On Sweetest Day, she had an excuse and spread her wares, boxes in this case, all over her place. She could become a mini-millionaire if she auctioned it. Such was the collection: Both quality and quantity. Steve was browsing channels on the television and froze on a non-profit organization ad for underprivileged children. Well, no guesses where we were headed. Megan, had a change of heart, and agreed to share her bounty. We've never been to an orphanage and didn't know what to expect. Of course, we expected disturbing scenes. No! That's a myth. Once we had a chat with the caretaker of the Home, the kids lined up for the goodies. And they literally ate out of Meggy's hands. They were happy to see us and jumped all over us, going for our pockets as any kid would do and playing with whatever they found for a while before depositing it back. With chocolate-smeared lips they kissed us all, especially Megan, who by now resembled a choc-dripping reservoir. We had a tear or two, watching the kids having fun, but they were anything but poignant. Kids being kids, they didn't need to think or judge, but just be themselves. Wow! Is there a way to make a sweet, sweeter?! Yes, share it with kids!

Babbling Day [Oct 21]

For LINDA IKEJI


When Megan goes babbling all day, it's tough for us to stop her. She does chat non-stop 24x7 and doesn't care even if it's Kong who is the one listening. So, when she goes suddenly quiet, that's not good news. Hmm….usual! Fight with the boss. She and her boss are chalk and cheese and they end up going for the jugular at least once a week. She was sitting by the fire, contemplating and playing back her duel scenes with the boss while we kept a safe distance from her. It's a known legend how Megan reacts when somebody pokes her while she is angry. Nah! No one dared. Our place was dead quiet even though four people were talking at the same time. Alas! Meggy's voice resounds better on the wall. She is the one with the microphonic shrill. Kong, the savior, stepped up to the plate. He went by the moaning Megan and sniffed and snuggled to open her up. And boy! Didn't she open up! She went, "You know Kong, the boss of mine…..blah, blah, blah, blah. . ." Babbling babe Megan on a roll, wink*, wink*. If the place is quiet and everything is neat, that's a museum. If there is clutter, Coke cans and juice tins strewn around then that's called a house err….rather Bob's place…



Remember buddies, you don't need everything to enjoy life, but a life to enjoy everything. You've got it, all you have got to do is enjoy it. I'm doing my bit…wink* wink*.

Take care and Play safe.

Bob !

Editor, 123Greetings

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Be the Next Amazon Breakthrough Author!

I have a beautiful and wonderful relationship with Amazon and Amazon is very exciting and thrilling for everyone who loves books. Therefore, it is fantastic that Amazon, Penguin, and Hewlett Packard have united to launch and sponsor the Next Breakthrough Novel Award for yet to be published novels.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Be the Next Breakthrough Author!

Are you a writer longing to be discovered? Submit your manuscript for the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award. It’s the perfect opportunity to become the next great novelist: the winning author will receive a publishing contract from Penguin Group, including promotional support for their book on Amazon.com, and a media suite from Hewlett-Packard. All entrants are eligible to self-publish their novel with CreateSpace and sell it on Amazon.com. Enter your manuscript for consideration by November 5, 2007!

Contest Process and Timeline

Amazon.com is accepting unpublished English language works of fiction for entry in the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award through November 5, 2007.

Once the submission period ends, Amazon editors and top Amazon customer reviewers will read submissions and select authors for the semi-final round, beginning January 15, 2008. Each semi-finalist will receive a full review of their manuscript by Publishers Weekly and a book page on Amazon.com featuring a short excerpt from their novel that customers can download, read, and review. Penguin will select manuscripts to read from the semi-final round based on customer feedback and Publishers Weekly reviews and announce the Top Ten finalists on March 3, 2008. Amazon.com customers will then select the winner of the Amazon Breakthrough Award, to be announced on April 7, 2008.

Register now and break through! Only the first 5,000 submissions will be accepted. The registration deadline is November 5, 2007.

Prizes

The winner of the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award will receive a full publishing contract from Penguin Group, including promotional support for their novel on Amazon.com, and a media suite from Hewlett-Packard. The nine remaining finalists will receive a free Total Design Freedom self-publishing package from BookSurge and a media suite from Hewlett-Packard. Semi-finalists will receive a review of their manuscript by Publishers Weekly. Upon conclusion of the contest all entrants will be eligible to make their books available for sale to Amazon.com customers via the CreateSpace self-publishing service at no charge. In addition, all entrants will receive discounted self-publishing services from BookSurge for custom cover design, formatting, and editing.


CLICK HERE TO REGISTER NOW

Tuesday, October 16, 2007

Anne Enright Wins The 2007 Man Booker Prize


Author Anne Enright holds a copy of her book 'The Gathering' during a media event with the six short listed authors for the Mann Booker prize for fiction, in London Tuesday Oct. 16, 2007. Enright won the Man Booker fiction prize Tuesday for "The Gathering," an uncompromising portrait of a troubled family. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant)

"I bring all of myself to a book," Anne Enright said.

Irish novelist, Anne Enright's "The Gathering" has won her the 2007 Man Booker Prize, the most prestigious literary prize for novels and made her fifty thousand pounds richer Tuesday night.




The choice of the winner is not a surprise to those who have read "The Gathering". But surprising to the so-called "bookies", and the "bettors" , who were voting for Ian McEwan's "On Chesil Beach" and Lloyd Jones's "Mister Pip".

I congratulate the worthy winner who is a seasoned novelist.

Here is the latest interview with Anne Enright

Anne Enright

Anne Enright was born in Dublin in 1962.
She has published a collection of stories, "The Portable Virgin" (Secker and Warburg 1991), which won the Rooney Prize that year.
Her novels are "The Wig My Father Wore", (Jonathan Cape 1995), which was shortlisted for the Irish Times/Aer Lingus Irish Literature Prize; "What Are You Like?" (Jonathan Cape 2000), which won the Royal Society of Authors Encore Prize; "The Pleasure of Eliza Lynch" (Jonathan Cape 2002); and "The Gathering" (Jonathan Cape, 2007)
Uncollected short stories have appeared in The New Yorker, The Paris Review and Granta. She was the inaugural winner of The Davy Byrne Award for her short story "Honey".
Her other work includes a book of essays, "Making Babies: Stumbling into Motherhood" (London, Jonathan Cape, 2004).
She lives in Bray, Co Wicklow.

~ Irish Writers On-Line.




The Leonardo De Vinci Dan Brown Never Knew

Here is the story of the Leonardo De Vinci that Dan Brown never knew. The great artist who truly believed in Jesus Christ and never distorted the truth.
Okay, Dan Brown only writes fiction.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Tuesday, October 16, 2007


Leonardo De Vinci's Cup

"Sir, we would see Jesus."1

I have read that when Leonardo de Vinci was forty-three years old, the Duke Ludovinco of Milan asked him to paint the dramatic scene of Jesus' last supper with his disciples.

Working slowly and giving meticulous care to details, he spent three years on the assignment. He grouped the disciples into threes, two groups on either side of the central figure of Christ.

Christ's arms are outstretched. In his right hand, he holds a cup that was painted beautifully with marvelous realism.

When the masterpiece was finished, the artist said to a friend, "Observe it and give me your opinion of it."

"It's wonderful!" exclaimed the friend, "the cup is so real I cannot divert my eyes from it."

Immediately Leonardo took a brush and drew it across the sparkling cup! As he did he exclaimed, "Nothing shall detract from the figure of Christ!"

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, please grant that nothing I ever do or say will ever detract from the beauty of Christ being seen in me. This I can only ever do with your help. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name, amen."

1. John 20:21.

<:))))><

"Bye Bye Mugabe" is live on Amazon.

Domboramwari, a young Zimbabwean blogger and proofreader for the Zimbabwean Times was sympathetic to President Robert Mugabe. But Domboramwari had to go on exile to escape from political persecution when he refused to join the notorious Green Bombers after collecting the financial payment to do so. He fled with his South African girlfriend Nkosi to Johannesburg after telling his old uncle. And he had to help in digging a grave to bury the dead grandson of his mother's neighbor. This is the story of the millions of the traumatized Zimbabweans suffering under the draconian rule of one of the worst dictators in Africa.


"When you give someone a book, you don't give him just paper, ink, and glue. You give him the possibility of a whole new life."
– Christopher Morley, 1890-1957, Novelist, Journalist and Poet










Parasites and Proteges and other Lessons for Life

Parasites and Proteges and other Lessons for Life

Parasites want what is in your hands, while proteges want what is in your heart.

~Dr. Mike Murdock

The sooner you read Dr. Mike Murdock, the better.

There is a season for sowing and there is a season for reaping.Don't be in a hurry to harvest your crops until they are ripe.The mistake most of us make is mistaking our seeds for our crops.And when you eat your seeds, you will have no crops to harvest.

~ Orikinla Osinachi

From Gateway To Success

Monday, October 15, 2007

Supermodel Heidi Klum Debuts Her First Signature Make-Up Collection



Supermodel Heidi Klum Debuts Her First Signature Make-Up Collection

VICTORIA'S SECRET VERY SEXY BY HEIDI LAUNCHES OCT. 16

MULTI MEDIA NEWS RELEASE

For Downloadable Video, Text & Pictures, please visit: Victoria's Secret

Site Is Live 10/16/07

Heidi Klum's first signature makeup collection for Victoria's Secret launches nationwide on October 16, 2007. Heidi created the limited-edition collection of must-have makeup so women can achieve her coveted runway and red carpet looks -- specifically in time for the holidays. Featuring eye-catching shimmer and a fresh neutral color palette, the Heidi Klum Collection for Very Sexy Makeup is perfectly timed and on-trend for sexy holiday party makeup looks. Heidi worked with VS makeup artist Linda Hay to select shades and Heidi personally selected the types of products and shade names. Product packaging features Heidi's signature with special Very Sexy gold touches.



15 Oct 2007 16:00 Africa/Lagos

DETAILS:

-- Glitter Eye Liner in Bang ($12)

-- A bronzy glitter liquid liner that can be worn alone or layered over black liner for a sexy "bang!"

-- Lip Gloss in Hot Coco ($12)
-- A pale nude-pink shade ... Flavored with yummy chocolate ... Heidi's personal touch!
-- Mosaic Eye Shadow in Beautiful ($18) -- Four beautiful neutral shades that can take you from day to night
-- Perfect Lipstick in Heidi ($13) -- Inspired by Heidi's own natural lip color, the pink shade has a sparkly overcoat

SATELLITE COORDINATES: TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2007

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2007 10:15 AM - 10:30 AM, ET 1:15 PM - 1:30 PM, ET Galaxy 26, Transponder 14, C-Band Galaxy 26, Transponder 14, C-Band DL Freq: 3980 (H); Audio: 6.2/6.8 DL Freq: 3980 (H); Audio: 6.2/6.8 Trouble # (310) 287-3800 Trouble # (310) 287-3800B-ROLL: Heidi Klum soundbites, behind-the-scenes of the ad campaign, close-ups of the makeup collection and photo stills by international photographer Rankin.

For hardcopy tape or more information, please contact:

Elana Gichon / Dogmatic / 310.450.3884 / elana@dogmatic.com PRNewswire -- Oct. 15First Call Analyst: FCMN Contact: Source: Dogmatic, Inc. Web site: http://www.dogmatic.com/



ADVERT:
SUPPORT HILLARY CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT

Married To Iraq



I love the cover of the latest edition of Newsweek and the cover story is a must read.

The war in Iraq has produced thousands of young American widows and fatherless and motherless children; and more thousands of lonely wives and girlfriends whose husbands and boyfriends are risking their precious lives in the erroneous war in Iraq.

The October 22 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, October 15), "Married to Iraq" delves into the strikingly few marriages between soldiers serving in Iraq and civilians, compared to previous wars. Couples untied in Iraq share their compelling stories of how they overcame religious and cultural differences and endured months and years of waiting for visas. Plus: Blackwater's Erik Prince discusses the company's role in Iraq and its future.


N.B:
The High Resolution of the cover photograph is available.

NEWSWEEK: Paris Hilton Wants a Makeover to Go from Party Girl to Serious Actress and Philanthropist



15 Oct 2007 00:45 Africa/Lagos


NEWSWEEK: Paris Hilton Wants a Makeover to Go from Party Girl to Serious Actress and Philanthropist

TRIP TO RWANDA WILL BE FILMED 'FOR THE GOOD OF HUMANITY' AND A POTENTIAL REALITY TV SHOW

NEW YORK, Oct. 14 /PRNewswire/ --

In her first interview since announcing her upcoming trip to Africa, Paris Hilton, known for her party girl hijinks and reality television show, "The Simple Life," reveals details about the trip, her plans to take her life in a different direction and perhaps another reality TV show.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071014/NYSU007 )


"Before, my life was about having fun, going to parties-it was a fantasy. But when I had time to reflect, I felt empty inside. I want to leave a mark on the world," she told Associate Editor Ramin Setoodeh in the October 22 issue of Newsweek (on newsstands Monday, October 15).


One of her first steps in shedding her old persona, aside from cutting her hair and scaling down her time partying, will be to take a five-day-long trip to Rwanda. She will be visiting schools and health-care clinics and even staying in decidedly un-Hilton-like accommodations. "I'm scared, yeah. I've heard it's really dangerous," she says. "I've never been on a trip like this before." She says she'll resort to eating candy bars if that's what it takes to get her through any foreign-cuisine issues. She'll be traveling with a little-known children's charity called "Playing for Good." One familiar aspect of the trip will be the camera chronicling it all. "She's using her celebrity and the cameras that follow her for the good of humanity," says Scott Lazerson, the organization's founder. Let's not forget the good of Lazerson, and Hilton. Turns out that he's filming the trip in hopes of selling it as a reality show called "The Philanthropist," featuring various selfless celebrities who rescue the world's poor.


Unlike other celebrities her age that have run into trouble with the law, Hilton has been smart about how she handled the situation, Setoodeh reports. When she wasn't crying during her stint in jail this summer, she spent her time studying the script for "Repo!" "I was auditioning and practicing in my cell," she says. "I had nothing else to do."


In "Repo! The Genetic Opera!" Hilton plays an heiress with an addiction to plastic surgery. Perhaps in an attempt to distance herself from her character, she plays the role in a black wig and prosthetic, Nicole Kidman-like nose. "You should have seen me yesterday," she told Setoodeh, who was on the set. "I had a melted face all cut up with scars. I looked horrible. It was so embarrassing." "Repo!" director Darren Lynn Bousman says he wouldn't have it any other way. "I don't want her to look like Paris Hilton, because I want people to know she got this role because she can act."


(Read story at www.Newsweek.com)


Read the story on Newsweek.com


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071014/NYSU007
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN3
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Newsweek

CONTACT: Brenda Velez of Newsweek, +1-212-445-4078


Web site: http://www.newsweek.msnbc.com/

Sunday, October 14, 2007

World's Richest People: Homes of Billionaires

Matt Woolsey's story in the Forbes on the awesome palatial homes of billionaires is worth reading.

He tells us about the $56 billon man Bill Gates' 66,000-square foot compound built into a Medina, Wash., hillside, the home outside Seattle, has a 1,000-square foot dining room, domed roof library with secret chambers, 60-foot pool and five acres of space could host quite a launch party for future editions.

The London home of steel baron Lakshmi Mittal, ranked No. 5 on our list, is tucked between Kensington Palace and the Sultan of Brunei's spread. In 2004 Mittal paid $128 million for the townhouse, the highest single-home buy of all time, and situated in what is known as "Billionaire's Row." Mittal's mansion has garage space for 20 cars and is embellished with marble taken from the same quarry that supplied the Taj Mahal.

Just click on the title for more.

See the pictures.

Bill Gates Denied Visa To Visit Nigeria




There is this joke making the rounds online by Xight on Gizmodo that Nigeria recently denied Bill Gates a visa to travel there on his recent trip to Africa. The initial denial was "on the premise that they required proof he would not reside in Nigeria indefinitely, causing a strain on social services and a general nuisance for immigration."






This my joke of the year!

Thursday, October 11, 2007

Doris Lessing, 87, Wins 2007 Nobel Prize for Literature



Doris Lessing

Doris Lessing, the Persian-born, Rhodesian-raised and London-residing novelist whose deeply autobiographical writing has swept across continents and reflects her deep feminist engagement with the major social and political issues, won the 2007 Nobel Prize for Literature today.Announcing the award in Stockholm, the Swedish Academy described her as “that epicist of the female experience, who with skepticism, fire and visionary power has subjected a divided civilization to scrutiny.” The award comes with a 10 million Swedish crown honorarium, about $1.6 million.

From the New York Times



Doris Lessing who will be 88 years old later this month, said she should have won the Nobel Prize for Literature years ago, because she has been mentioned on many occasions as being worthy of the highly esteemed literary honour since 40 years ago.Why did it take the Nobel Prize Committee decades to honour her for what they have called epicist of the female experience?

How can Lady Doris Lessing honour all the invitations to speak on her unique writings when she is already a weak old woman who would need more hands to attend to her daily needs at home and to escort her whenever she is going outdoors.

The Nobel Prize Committee has given the prize to writers who should not have won it before Doris Lessing. In fact, there are two previous winners who did not deserve the Nobel Prize for literature. And I have my doubts about the intellectual integrity of the Nobel Prize Committee responsible for awarding the most celebrated literary prize.

I thank God that Doris Lessing is still alive to receive this honour that she would have missed.

Recommended:

The Grandmothers: Four Short Novels (Paperback)

Shikasta: Re, Colonised Planet 5 (George Sherban Emissary) (Paperback)

Book Description:

A disturbing allegory, centered around a planet called Shikasta, which bears remarkable similarities to Earth. Through time, a higher planet, Canopus, has documented the progress of Shikasta and tried to distract its inhabitants from the evil influence of the planet Shammat, but the Shikastans continue to hurl themselves toward annihilation.

The next writer who deserves the Nobel Prize for Literature is Prof. Chinua Achebe, for his great contributions to the literary culture of Africa.

Other Books By Doris Lessing:

1. Canopus in Argos

Author: Doris Lessing;

2. The Golden Notebook

Author: Doris Lessing; Buy New: $10.85

3. The Grandmothers

Author: Doris Lessing; Buy New: $11.86

4. Shikasta

Author: Doris Lessing; Buy New: $19.00

5. Under My Skin

Author: Doris May Lessing;

6. Learning How to Learn

Author: Idries Shah, Doris Lessing; Buy New: $12.48

7. The Fifth Child

Author: Doris Lessing; Buy New: $10.16

8. The Sirian Experiments

Author: Doris Lessing;

9. The Diaries of Jane Somers

Author: Doris Lessing;






Nas - 'Greatest Hits' - Available Tuesday, November 6


Columbia Records Ready to Release Definitive 'Greatest Hits' Album From Groundbreaking Hip-Hop Icon Nas

Nas - 'Greatest Hits' - Available Tuesday, November 6

NEW YORK, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ -- Columbia Records announces the upcoming release of Greatest Hits, the definitive collection of classic tracks and more from the pioneering hip-hop icon Nas. Nas' Greatest Hits will be available in stores and online on Tuesday, November 6.


A career-spanning retrospective which also serves as an ideal introduction to Nas' most unforgettable tracks, Greatest Hits reprises 12 essential cuts culled from the artist's monumental Columbia Records catalog -- from 1994's Illmatic, one of the most influential albums in hip-hop history, through 2004's double disc masterpiece Street Disciple -- while premiering 2 newly recorded songs: "Surviving The Times" and "Less Than An Hour," featuring Cee- Lo, new theme music created for the soundtrack for "Rush Hour 3."


Since the 1994 release of Illmatic, the blueprint album which laid the foundation for East Coast hip-hop in the 90s while establishing Nas as one of hip-hop's most electrifying and influential urban street poets, Nas continues to be one of hip-hop's most potent, provocative, and abiding forces with a string of chart-topping RIAA gold and platinum successes to his credit: Illmatic (1994); It Was Written (1996); "Street Dreams" (1997); I Am...The Autobiography (1999); Nastradamus (1999); Stillmatic (2002); The Lost Tapes (2002); God's Son (2002); Street's Disciple (2004); and Hip Hop Is Dead (2006).


More than 20 million Nas albums, singles, and digital tracks have been sold worldwide since the release of Illmatic in 1994.


NAS - GREATEST HITS - Tracklisting

1) Surviving The Times (newly recorded)
2) Less than an Hour (Theme from Rush Hour 3) (newly recorded)
3) It Ain't Hard to Tell (from Illmatic)
4) Life's A Bitch (from Illmatic)
5) N.Y. State of Mind (from Illmatic)
6) One Love (from Illmatic)
7) If I Ruled the World (Imagine That) (from It Was Written)
8) Street Dreams (Remix) Feat. R. Kelly (original from It Was Written;
remix from 2002's From Illmatic to Stillmatic: The Remixes EP)
9) Hate Me Now Feat. Puff Daddy (from I Am ... The Autobiography)
10) One Mic (from Stillmatic)
11) Got Ur Self A ... (from Stillmatic)
12) Made You Look (from God's Son)
13) I Can (from God's Son)
14) Bridging the Gap Feat. Olu Dara (from Street's Disciple)

Source: Columbia Records

CONTACT: Edwin Banacia of Columbia Records, +1-212-833-5072,
Edwin.Banacia@sonybmg.com


Web site: http://www.columbiarecords.com/
http://www.nasgreatesthits.com/



Releases displayed in GMT time

11 Oct 2007
10:30
Nickelodeon & Viacom Consumer Products Awards SpongeBob SquarePants Master Toy License to JAKKS Pacific
10:00
Virgin Mobile USA Prices Initial Public Offering
10:00
Filmmaker/Author Proposes Controversial Legislation
10:00
Businesses Going, Going ... Gone By 2017
09:20
Visa and Jerome Bettis Kick Off Super Bowl XLII Sweepstakes at Courtyard
09:20
Live Action Demos Lead a Parade of Techie Upgrades at 'Celebrity Chef Connection'
09:00
Way of the Child Helps Kids Explore Spiritual Disciplines
09:00
Columbia Records Set to Release 'Back Country,' the New Live Concert DVD & CD from Five For Fighting
08:49
Building a Better MANSION.com - New Platform for MANSION Poker
08:00
PR Newswire Broadcast Minute and Podcast for Thursday October 11, 2007
07:00
Familiar Names Show Enduring Popularity
01:07
Hustler's Brady Bunch Porn Shocker
00:22
Hank Aaron 'On Deck' in 2008
00:19
New England Journal of Medicine selecciona Manuscript Central de ScholarOne para la revisión por expertos en línea
10 Oct 2007
22:39
Panalux(TM) : le nouveau nom de l'éclairage professionnel au sein de l'industrie du cinéma et de la télévision
21:55
Stash Collections Launches the Highly Anticipated Boutique at Scottsdale Fashion Square With an In-Store Fashion Show and Celebrity Guest Host, Kendra Wilkinson
21:49
Magna Entertainment Corp. Announces Withdrawal from Empire Racing Associates, LLC
21:37
Le New England Journal of Medicine sélectionne Manuscript Central de ScholarOne pour l'évaluation par les pairs en ligne
21:35
Nature Tech, on Smithsonian Channel(TM) Wins Best Limited Series at Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival
21:30
'Telephony' Magazine Honors Verizon for Its New Broadband-Powered Payment-Processing Service for Small Businesses

Britney Spears' New Album Release Date, October 30th

The following news release was sent to me yesterday, but I could not blog it, because I was held back by other important demands. But this is the latest official news on darling Britney Spears who is a friend anyday anywhere.
In good times and in bad times, true friends do not give up their friends.

>>>>>>>>>>>>.

Britney Spears' New Album Release Date, October 30th

NEW YORK, Oct. 10 /PRNewswire/ --

Jive Records announced today that the label is moving up the worldwide release date of Britney Spears' latest release Blackout to October 30th.


Recently, songs from Britney's Spears' forthcoming album, along with unfinished material and demos represented as completed legitimate songs, were leaked on-line. A label spokesperson stated, "due to these numerous unauthorized on-line leaks, the label is doing everything possible to prevent and avoid any further illegal distribution of songs including moving up the release date of the album to October 30th."


Source: Jive Records

CONTACT: Wendy Washington, Wendy.Washington@sonybmg.com, or Gina Orr,
Gina.Orr@sonybmg.com, both for Jive Records


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

Did Spears Beat Federline?....


Did Spears Beat Federline?....

Britney Spears can add husband beater to her shameful resume, if new reports surrounding ex-husband Kevin Federline are to be believed.

Insiders claim a court-imposed order for Spears not to use corporal punishment on the couple's sons stem from claims Federline has made that he was attacked by his wife during their two-year marriage.

A source tells America's Life & Style magazine, "Kevin asked for that (in the custody case) because he's sacred she'll hit the kids... Kevin says she hit him several times during their marriage."

But a Spears source tells the magazine, "This is just another attempt to make Britney look like a bad mom.".


Female First

Okay K-Fed is just calling a dog a bad name in order to hang it. Britney is not a bitch!
She may not be the best mom in the world, but she is not a bully!
She needs help on motherhood. She is just having some issues and these issues can be solved in the long run.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Hollywood Celebrities and Political Leaders Support International Pop Artist Romero Britto in Celebrating Princess Diana

10 Oct 2007 01:04 Africa/Lagos


Hollywood Celebrities and Political Leaders Support International Pop Artist Romero Britto in Celebrating Princess Diana Through Commemorative Portrait Series

~Celebrity participants include Sir Anthony Hopkins, Hilary Clinton and Demi Moore ~



PARIS, Oct. 9 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ --

International Pop Artist Romero Britto was joined today by former Iranian Empress Farah Pahlavi for the unveiling of his latest portrait series titled "Princess Diana," celebrating the legacy of Diana, Princess of Wales. Hollywood celebrities and political leaders lent their support to Britto, and helped him honor the late icon through this 10 painting commemorative series by signing each of the original pieces of artwork in support of Diana's philanthropic endeavors.


(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071009/CLTU136 )


"Diana had a spirit that was larger than life. I am honored to celebrate the legacy of such a dynamic and remarkable woman through my art, and am deeply grateful for the support of the incredible individuals who agreed to participate in this very special project," said Britto. "These 10 paintings reflect her captivating humor, style, elegance and grace, and through them I am proud to honor the late Princess' legacy by donating the proceeds of the sales of these paintings to charitable organizations that will further Diana's philanthropic mission."


Celebrities who lent their support include Sir Anthony Hopkins, Senator Hillary Clinton, renowned architect Frank Gehry, actor David Caruso, acclaimed singer and actress Liza Minelli, actress Demi Moore, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Sargeant and Eunice Kennedy Shriver, supermodel Petra Nemcova and California First Lady Maria Shriver.


"The Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund is very pleased that Romero Britto has decided to donate the proceeds of these incredibly unique portraits of Princess Diana to the fund. Everybody involved in this project should be aware that we will use this money to support the humanitarian causes that Diana was involved with," said Paul Hensby, Head of Media Campaigns and Communications, Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund.


The 40 inch x 30 inch, acrylic on canvas paintings pay homage to the late cultural icon, and are filled with brilliant color and intricate detail. The paintings are available for sale, and are on display at the Opera Gallery in Paris. They will then travel to London and be placed on exhibition. Proceeds from the sale of each painting will benefit the Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fund in London and the Landmine Survivors Network, which the late princess supported.


"Landmine Survivors Network is deeply grateful for Romero Britto's creative vision and generosity to honor Princess Diana's legacy of compassion. Ten years after the Princess launched our first support network in Bosnia-Herzegovina, the survivors she met continue to celebrate Diana's powerful presence and appeal for a world free of landmines," said Jerry White, LSN Co-Founder and Executive Director.


For more information on the Princess Diana Portrait Series contact Cristal Cole at (305) 531-8821.


ABOUT ROMERO BRITTO


A modern day pop culture icon, Romero Britto is one of the premiere artists of our time. As the youngest and most successful Pop Artist of this generation, Britto has managed to create contemporary masterpieces that evoke a spirit of hope and convey a sense of warmth. Embraced by the international community, Britto's paintings and sculpture are currently featured on five continents in more than 100 hundred galleries worldwide, including the Saatchi Gallery in London, who recently incorporated his artwork as part of their new online gallery. In addition, Britto's artwork is also included in some of the world's most impressive private collections.


Whether it's serving as a panelist at the World Economic Forum, an invitation to create the NFL Superbowl XLI pre-show with Cirque du Soleil, or the prestigious United Nations Postal stamp collection, Britto is a highly sought after artist by not only private collectors, but key global entities around the world. He has been tapped to bring a unique visual interpretation to world renowned brands such as Absolut, Disney, Movado, Pepsi, Evian, Microsoft X-Box, BMW, Volvo and Audi.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071009/CLTU136
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Romero Britto

CONTACT: Cristal Cole, +1-305-531-8821, for Romero Britto

$500 for Free New Anna Taylor Fall Wardrobe

Hard Rock International Releases All-Star Charity CD SERVE2 to Benefit WHY (World Hunger Year)



Hard Rock International Releases All-Star Charity CD SERVE2 to Benefit WHY (World Hunger Year)


Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Joss Stone and More Donate Previously Unreleased Tracks to Aid in the Fight Against Hunger and Poverty

Hard Rock and WHY Partner with The Orchard for Worldwide Digital Distribution of SERVE2

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 9 /PRNewswire/ --

Hard Rock International differentiates itself with Rock, but philanthropy is the company's soul. Hard Rock has remained true to its "Love All, Serve All" creed since the company's founding in 1971 -- a motto that can be heard or seen at every Hard Rock location around the world. Continuing its pledge to serving others, Hard Rock is proud to announce the launch of SERVE2 -- a benefit compilation CD, featuring previously unreleased tracks from some of music's most influential artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Joss Stone, KT Tunstall and more -- to benefit WHY (World Hunger Year), a nonprofit organization that strives to fight against hunger and poverty in America and around the world. All net proceeds from SERVE2 will be donated directly towards Artists Against Hunger & Poverty (AAHP), a special artist-directed program of WHY -- for which, Hard Rock has proudly raised more than $1 million to date.


Photo


Joining Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan and others in the fight against hunger and poverty, the SERVE2 CD features never-before-released tracks by a unique blend of major multi-platinum, Grammy Award-winning and acclaimed recording artists like The Hold Steady, Mat Kearney, Brandi Carlile and more, as well as several bonus digital tracks. The songs are new, classic, electric or acoustic, and reflect the generosity of the artists that donated them to the project on behalf of serving those in need.


"We are honored to be partnering once again with Hard Rock and such great musicians for this effort," said Bill Ayres, founder of WHY. "The generosity and time committed to SERVE2 has been tremendous, and we are overwhelmed by the support for the cause."


Servin' Up Some Rockin' Charity . . .

Artist Track Title

SERVE2: Physical Album (also available digitally):

Bruce Springsteen "The Ghost of Tom Joad (Live in Dublin)"
KT Tunstall "Heal Over (Live at Gaia Music, London)"
Bob Dylan "The Ballad of Hollis Brown
(Live at Carnegie Hall, 1963)"
Joss Stone "Big Ol' Game"
Jackson Browne "Casino Nation
(Live from Melbourne, Australia)"
Citizen Cope feat.
Alice Smith "107°"
Brandi Carlile "The Times They Are A-Changin'
(Live from Boston)"
Marc Broussard "Bring It On Home To Me" (Sam Cooke cover)
The Hold Steady "Arms and Hearts"
*O.A.R. "Dareh Meyod
(Live at Madison Square Garden)"
Natasha Bedingfield "Lay Down"
Mat Kearney "Nothing Left to Lose" (Acoustic Version)
Ghosts "Stay The Night"
Andrew W.K. "This Is My World"

Bonus / Digital Tracks:

Toby Lightman "Better (Live From Joe's Pub)"
Sons of William "Bell Bottom Blues"
(Derek & the Dominos cover)
Hellogoodbye "Baby It's Fact (Live From New York, NY)"
Josh Rouse "Start Again"
Jen Chapin "You Haven't Done Nothin'"
(Stevie Wonder cover)
Eli Cook "Man-Child"
Griffin House "Love to Begin"

*Previously-released track

One Million and Counting . . .

To celebrate reaching the $1 million mark in funds raised for WHY, in addition to SERVE2, Hard Rock International will continue to offer its 21st Signature Series T-Shirt, inspired by Bruce Springsteen, and also launch a new commemorative limited-edition pin, to benefit WHY. The Bruce Springsteen Signature Series t-shirt and collectible pin feature a drawing of one of Bruce's favorite guitars. The shirt is available in black in classic men's sizes.


"Hard Rock International possesses a social consciousness that benefits a number of charities and organizations, including World Hunger Year," said Sean Dee, Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Hard Rock International. "Hard Rock has actively supported World Hunger Year for years, raising more than $1 million to date, and we are proud to continue to support a great organization that envisions a world without hunger and poverty."


In addition to Hard Rock's Rock Shops throughout the world, the SERVE2 compilation, Bruce Springsteen Signature Series t-shirt and pin will also be available for sale through Hard Rock's Web site at www.hardrock.com and WHY's Web site www.worldhungeryear.org beginning November 6th, 2007. All songs featured on the SERVE2 CD, as well as bonus tracks, will also be available for download at major online retail stores via The Orchard's digital distribution network.


"We applaud Hard Rock and the entire WHY team for their passion, commitment and dedication to harnessing the power of music to fight global poverty," said Greg Scholl, President and Chief Executive of The Orchard. "We are proud to be a part of this project and to help spread the message of SERVE2 to fans around the world."


About WHY


Founded in 1975, WHY (World Hunger Year) is a leader in the fight against hunger and poverty in the United States and around the world. WHY is convinced that solutions to hunger and poverty can be found at the grassroots level. WHY advances long-term solutions to hunger and poverty by supporting community- based organizations that empower individuals and build self-reliance, i.e., offering job training, education and after school programs; increasing access to housing and healthcare; providing microcredit and entrepreneurial opportunities; teaching people to grow their own food; and assisting small farmers. WHY connects these organizations to artists, funders, media and legislators. WHY is a not-for-profit registered 501(c)(3) organization founded by radio talk show host and present Executive Director Bill Ayres, and the late singer-songwriter Harry Chapin.


About The Orchard


The Orchard is a leading supplier and marketer of digital music and video to digital retailers and mobile operators throughout the world. The Orchard controls an unparalleled catalogue of music from thousands of artists and labels, encompassing all genres, eras, and regions. With localized marketing in 27 countries serving all major music territories, The Orchard designs global sales programs that are executed by local experts, who are knowledgeable about and sensitive to each country's unique market dynamic. The Orchard functions as a true business partner with its clients by providing retail sales and marketing support, an extensive suite of online promotional programs, song placement, global royalty collection, global publishing administration, and in select cases, co-production investment capital. The Orchard also provides strategic media services to an impressive roster of digital retailers and leading consumer brands, ranging from publishing research, licensing and administration through comprehensive online and offline branding programs. The Orchard was founded in 1997 to provide independent artists and labels with broad and fair access to distribution. For more information, please visit us at www.theorchard.com.


About Hard Rock International


With 123 high-energy Hard Rock Cafes and eight Hotels/Casinos in 46 countries, Hard Rock International is one of the world's most globally recognized brands. Beginning with an Eric Clapton guitar, Hard Rock owns the world's greatest collection of music memorabilia, which is displayed at its locations around the globe. Hard Rock is also known for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, Hard Rock Live performance venues and an award-winning website. In addition to the two flagship Seminole Hard Rock Hotels and Casinos in Tampa and Hollywood, Fla., Hard Rock Hotels/Casinos are located in Las Vegas, Biloxi, Orlando, Chicago, Pattaya and Bali, with San Diego scheduled to open later in 2007. Additional hotel and casino projects have been announced in Macau, scheduled to open in 2009, and Palm Springs, scheduled to open in 2010. Hard Rock International, Inc. is owned by Seminole Hard Rock Entertainment, Inc. For more information on Hard Rock, visit www.hardrock.com.


Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20071009/NYTU006
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Hard Rock International

CONTACT: Brian Siemienas, Hard Rock International, +1-407-445-7625;
Deborah Sierchio or Meredith Miesieski, Coyne PR, +1-973-316-1665; Lisa
Batitt, WHY, +1-212-629-8550 Ext. 22; Sarah Miller, Axis Marketing-PR, for The
Orchard, +1-310-276-2220


Web site: http://www.hardrock.com/
http://www.theorchard.com/

Hard Rock launches SERVE2 - a benefit compilation CD, featuring previously unreleased tracks from some of music's most influential artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Joss Stone, KT Tunstall and more - to benefit WHY (World Hunger Year), a nonprofit organization that strives to fight against hunger and poverty in America and around the world.