Thursday, June 30, 2011

Kobo Essay Contest Features Power Lunch With Author Kelly Cutrone



29 Jun 2011 19:09 Africa/Lagos


Kobo Essay Contest Features Power Lunch With Author Kelly Cutrone

Entrants Across North America Asked to Describe "How Normal Has Gotten Them Nowhere"

PR Newswire

TORONTO, June 29, 2011

TORONTO, June 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Kobo, a global leader in eReading with more than 4 million users worldwide, today announced the launch of a new essay contest in which the winner will enjoy a private power lunch with television personality and New York Times' bestselling author Kelly Cutrone.

Today through July 8, 2011, Cutrone fans can visit http://facebook.com/kobo and write a short essay answer to the question: "How has normal has gotten you nowhere and how are you ready to make new moves?"

Open to residents of the continental United States and Canada (excluding Quebec), the winning essay will be chosen by Cutrone. The winner will be flown to Toronto to power lunch with the author. Cutrone will share her unique brand of no-nonsense wisdom to help the winner move forward in his or her life.

"Kelly was recently in Toronto and expressed her love of Kobo as well as her desire to work with us in a way which would be truly meaningful for her fans. Kelly loves Canada and was keen to partner with Kobo on this content," said Liz Ridout, vice president of marketing at Kobo.

"Toronto stole my heart. Anytime I can come to Toronto to see my friends and fans is a good day!" said Cutrone.

Cutrone has been a force in the fashion industry for more than 25 years. She quickly moved from industry icon to media maverick, originally appearing on MTV's hit shows The Hills and The City. She executive produced and appeared on the Bravo series Kell on Earth and is a special contributor on the syndicated Dr. Phil show. Cutrone has penned two books: national and New York Times' bestseller "If You Have to Cry, Go Outside: And Other Things Your Mother Never Told You" and "Normal Gets You Nowhere," released in May 2011 by HarperOne, an imprint of HarperCollins.

To enter the contest, visit http://facebook.com/kobo. Deadline for entry is July 8, 2011. No purchase is necessary to compete in this contest. The winning entry will be made available on Kobo's Facebook page after being selected.

About Kobo, Inc.

Kobo is a global eReading service with more than 2.4 million eBooks, magazines and newspapers – one of the largest eReading catalogues in the world. Kobo believes consumers should have the freedom to read any book on any device and has attracted millions of readers from over 100 countries across the globe. Kobo has top ranked eReading applications for iPad, iPhone, BlackBerry, Android, Windows and MacOS, and is the eReading application of choice for leading tablet OEMs. Kobo eReaders are also available at leading retailers including Indigo, Walmart, Best Buy, Borders and WHSmith. Kobo's innovative Reading Life is an industry-first comprehensive social eReading experience – Kobo users can earn awards simply for time spent reading and encouraging others. Kobo is backed by majority shareholder Indigo Books & Music Inc, Cheung Kong Holdings, and institutional investors.

Contact:
Wendy Zaas/Karina Tang
Rogers & Cowan

310.854.8148/212.445.8419

wzaas@rogersandcowan.com

ktang@rogersandcowan.com

SOURCE Kobo




Click here to buy "Normal Gets No Where"

Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time

30 Jun 2011


29 Jun 2011
























Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Sylvia Nduka is the new Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria


Sylvia Nduka, the winner of the 2011 Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) Beauty Pageant

Black beauty Miss Taraba , Sylvia Nduka is the new Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN). She was the choice of the judges and by the popular votes of the public who had a challenging task of selecting from the bevy of 34 final contestants from different states in Nigeria.

The new beauty queen was crowned Saturday night at the Eko Expo Centre on Victoria Island, Lagos. She also got a brand new Hyundai car and N3 million cash prize and will also represent Nigeria at the 2011 Miss World Beauty Pageant in London, UK.

The following are respective winners in other categories of the beauty pageant.

MBGN Tourism 2011 – Obioma Isiwu (Miss Enugu)
MBGN ECOWAS 2011 – Grace Ndam (Miss Lagos)
MBGN 2011/BellaNaija Miss Photogenic - Tobi Banjoko (Miss Ondo)
MBGN 2011 Miss Amity – Delphine Okobah (Miss Ebonyi)
MBGN 2011 Miss La Casera – Nwando Ebeledike (Miss Adamawa)
MBGN 2011 Model - Oluchi Okafor (Miss Kogi)
MBGN 2011 Face of Select Pro - Gabriella Ndu (Miss Abia)




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All text, image and other materials contained or displayed on any Supple Communications Limited/International Digital Post Network (IDPN) Limited website or log are proprietary to the two duly incorporated companies and constitute valuable intellectual property. No materials from any part of any the websites and blogs are authorized or intended by Supple Communications Limited/International Digital Post Network (IDPN) Limited to be downloaded, transmitted, broadcast, reproduced or in any other way used or otherwise disseminated in any form to any person or entity, unless said person or entity has license to do so. All unauthorized duplication or any other use of materials from Supple Communications Limited/International Digital Post Network (IDPN) Limited websites or blogs, including, but not limited to, use on other websites, or in offers to resell Supple Communications Limited/International Digital Post Network (IDPN) Limited products using similar names or descriptions, shall constitute intentional infringement(s)of Supple Communications Limited/International Digital Post Network (IDPN) Limited's intellectual property and shall further constitute a violation of our trademarks, copyrights, and other rights. Without further notice we will prosecute to the fullest extent allowed by law.

Copyright Infringement Warning

If you are thinking about borrowing (stealing) someone else's material. You should read this!

Copyright laws provide for penalties of up to $150,000 per infringement. That is ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY THOUSAND DOLLARS!

This is not just some arbitrary number, keep in mind that this amount was just recently increased from $100,000 per infringement in order to give the copyright law even more teeth than it already had.

So, let's say you go to a someone's website, download one of their pictures, or copy their text, and then use it on your website without permission.

In order to save a little time and maybe a few bucks, you have just opened yourself and or your company up to a $150,000 liability for each infringement. And when the rightful owner finds you (and they will), the legal "cause of action" that lands on your desk (a subpoena) will be seeking $150,000.00 for EACH infringement. Hiding behind that corporate shield won't help you either, because copyright infringement is a criminal act.

Stealing copyrighted material is not only unfair to us, but it is also unfair to our good customers who follow the law and pay us for the use of our copyrighted material. We have an obligation to protect our customers.

Because it's so easy these days for one person to "steal" the creative work of somebody else, lawmakers have recognized that for copyright laws to be effective, they must have teeth. If you use our copyrighted material without permission we will utilize the law to it's fullest extent. We prosecute every copyright infringement, no questions asked, and we will always seek the maximum fine of $150,000 when we file suit.

You can have a great web site designed using professional copy writers and artists for a thousand dollars or less. There is no need to steal other peoples copyrighted material. However, if you really think that stealing that one image, or that one catchy phrase is worth a $150,000 gamble then you must know that time is not on your side. Sophisticated spiders can easily match copied text and identify stolen images. Theses spiders work 24/7 and you WILL get caught.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Chris Brown, 2Face Idibia and D'Banj shine at 2011 BET AWARDS



Sensational American R&B singer Chris Brown was the star of the night at the 2011 BET AWARDS Sunday night at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, hosted by Kevin Hart. Chris went home with the awards for Best Male Artist, Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice, Best Collaboration, and Video of the Year Awards.

Popular Nigerian artistes 2Face Idibia and D'Banj shared the Best International Act award.




Chris Brown


The following is the full report.

27 Jun 2011 07:55 Africa/Lagos


CEE LO GREEN CHANNELS HIS INNER PATTI LABELLE IN FULL COSTUME DURING HER TRIBUTE PERFORMANCE FOR THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
JUSTIN BIEBER FLIRTS WITH NICKI MINAJ ON STAGE
ALICIA KEYS PERFORMS NEW SONG "TYPEWRITER" AND SHARES STAGE WITH BRUNO MARS AND RICK ROSS
STEVE HARVEY INSPIRES THE AUDIENCE AS THE HUMANITARIAN AWARD RECIPIENT

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, June 27, 2011

NEW YORK, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The hilarious Kevin Hart kept the crowd laughing out loud as a Hollywood House Husband during the BET AWARDS '11 opening act with Bobby Brown , Jermaine Dupri , Anthony Anderson , Nelly, and Nick Cannon . Chris Brown's powerful performance medley of "She Ain't You," "Look at Me Now," and "Paper Scissor Rock" illustrated just why he was named the 2011 Best Male R&B Artist, Video of the Year, Best Collaboration, and Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award winner when he took to the stage in two performances collaborating with Busta Rhymes and Big Sean. Later, a precocious Justin Bieber propositioned Nicki Minaj on stage when he said, "I'm all grown up now. I turn 18 next year so...what's up?"

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20070716/BETNETWORKSLOGO )

Legendary songstress and diva extraordinaire Patti LaBelle was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award and her tribute was a performance unlike anything ever seen before. Beginning with a special introduction from another musical icon, Gladys Knight , Cee Lo Green took to the stage in a throwback Patti LaBelle costume performing "Somebody Loves You Baby," while Marsha Ambrosius jazzed up the room with her spot on rendition of "If Only You Knew," before the great Shirley Caesar took the crowd—and Patti LaBelle —to tears singing "You Are My Friend." But it was Patti herself that brought the house down performing two of her greatest hits, "Love, Need and Want You" and "Lady Marmalade." Steve Harvey uplifted the audience in his acceptance speech for his Humanitarian Award.

The cast of the Five Heartbeats movie surprised the audience with a reunited performance with R&B crooners After 7 with the famous hit, "Nights Like This," for the 20-year anniversary of the film. The beautiful Kerry Washington graced the stage for BET's Shine A Light moment to honor individuals who make the world a better place for young people.

Celebrating the 10-year Anniversary of her first album, Songs In A Minor, Alicia Keys graced the BET AWARDS '11 stage for a medley of her hits with Bruno Mars and Rick Ross as well as for the world premiere her latest song, "Typewriter."

Additional highlights of the 14 performances include: Trey Songz sexy, shirt-ripping rendition of "Making Love Faces" and "Unusual," and was later joined by Kelly Rowland to perform her smash hit, "Motivation," Donnie McClurkin, Deitrick Haddon and Mary Mary uplifted the audience with their rendition of the gospel hit, "Thank You Lord," in tribute to the late Walter Hawkins; Mary J. Blige , Anita Baker , DJ Khaled, and Jadakiss kicked off the show with a monumental mix of hits "All Night Long," "Joy," "Happy," Dreams," "Real Love," "Rapture," and "Over Til It's Over"; Jill Scott performed a soulful rendition of "Rolling Hills" with actor and DJ Idris Elba ; DJ Khaled, Rick Ross, Drake and Lil' Wayne amped the crowd performing "I'm the One"; and Beyonce closed the show singing "Best Thing I Never Had" and "End of Time" via live telecast from Britain's Glastonbury Festival.

This year's In Memoriam tribute celebrated the lives of Cali Swag District member M-Bone, Clarence Clemons , Teena Marie , Gil Scott Heron and Nate Dogg with performances and appearances by Doug E. Fresh and Cali Swag District, Queen Latifah, Ledisi, Scott Mayo, Snoop Dogg and Warren G.

In continuing the good that BET's S.O.S.: Saving Ourselves initiative has made over the years, the BET AWARDS '11 contained a special moment to show support for the victims of the tornadoes in the Southeast through a special message from Rev. Al Sharpton .

In addition to all of these spectacular moments, the full list of BET AWARDS '11 winners are:

* Best Female R&B Artist: Rihanna
* Best Male R&B Artist: Chris Brown
* Best Group: Diddy-Dirty Money
* Best Gospel Artist: Mary Mary
* Best Female Hip Hop Artist: Nicki Minaj
* Best Male Hip Hop Artist: Kanye West
* Best New Artist: Wiz Khalifa
* Best Collaboration: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes "Look At Me Now"
* Video of the Year: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne and Busta Rhymes "Look At Me Now"
* Video Director of the Year: Chris Robinson
* Best Actress: Taraji P. Henson
* Best Actor: Idris Elba
* Young Stars Award: Jaden Smith and Willow Smith
* Best Movie: For Colored Girls
* Subway Sportswoman of the Year: Serena Williams
* Subway Sportsman of the Year: Michael Vick
* Centric Award: Marsha Ambrosius "Far Away"
* Best International Act: 2Face Idibia (Nigeria) and D'Banj (Nigeria)
* Coca-Cola Viewer's Choice Award: Chris Brown f/ Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes - "Look at me Now"
* Humanitarian Award: Steve Harvey
* Lifetime Achievement Award: Patti LaBelle


About BET Networks:

BET Networks, a subsidiary of Viacom Inc. (NYSE: VIA, VIA.B), is the nation's leading provider of quality entertainment, music, news and public affairs television programming for the African-American audience. The primary BET channel reaches more than 90 million households and can be seen in the United States, Canada, the Caribbean, the United Kingdom and sub-Saharan Africa. BET is the dominant African-American consumer brand with a diverse group of business extensions: BET.com, a leading Internet destination for Black entertainment, music, culture, and news; CENTRIC, a 24-hour entertainment network targeting the 25- to 54-year-old African-American audience; BET Digital Networks - BET Gospel and BET Hip Hop, attractive alternatives for cutting-edge entertainment tastes; BET Home Entertainment, a collection of BET-branded offerings for the home environment including DVDs and video-on-demand; BET Event Productions, a full-scale event management and production company with festivals and live events spanning the globe; BET Mobile, which provides ringtones, games and video content for wireless devices; and BET International, which operates BET in the United Kingdom and oversees the extension of BET network programming for global distribution.

SOURCE BET Networks

CONTACT: Marcy Polanco, +1-212-975-3327, marcy.polanco@BET.net, Zabrina Horton, +1-310-481-3737, zabrina.horton@BET.net, both of BET Networks; or Simone Smalls of Simone Smalls PR, Inc., +1-917-388-3890, simone@simonesmallspr.com; or Michelle Huff, +1-212-239-1732, michelle@huffent.com, Debbie Asrate, +1-212-239-1732, debbie@huffent.com, both of HUFF Events & PR; or Charlie Guadano of Simone Smalls PR, Inc., +1-917-388-3890, charlie@simonesmallspr.com

Web Site: http://www.bet.com


Saturday, June 25, 2011

Photo of the Week: Kerri Walsh against HIV/AIDS


Olympic athlete and women’s volleyball competitor Kerri Walsh uses her weapons-grade hotness in the fight against HIV/AIDS infection.


Women's football teams ‘Give AIDS the Red Card' to keep children free from HIV



25 Jun 2011 10:06 Africa/Lagos

Women's football teams ‘Give AIDS the Red Card' to keep children free from HIV

GENEVA, June 24, 2011/location>)/ -- Captains of national football teams competing in the upcoming FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 soccer championship in Germany are signing up to the Give AIDS the Red Card appeal in support of a global plan to eliminate new HIV infections among children by 2015. The Give AIDS the Red Card appeal, which was launched by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) one year ago at the FIFA 2010 World Cup in South Africa, uses the power and outreach of football to unite the world around stopping new HIV infections in children.


UNAIDS Executive Director Michel Sidibé said, “As the most important international competition in women's football, this tournament provides a platform to raise global awareness about the campaign to keep babies from becoming infected with HIV, and their mothers from dying from AIDS.”


Every day more than 1000 babies are born with HIV. However with access to HIV counseling and testing for pregnant women and their partners, and treatment when needed, the risk of transmission can be brought down to less than 5%.


On signing the pledge, team captains appeal to football players and fans across the world to ‘celebrate life and support the global campaign to prevent mothers from dying and babies from becoming infected with HIV'.


The FIFA Women's World Cup 2011 is taking place from 26 June to 17 July. So far five captains have signed the appeal; Faye White (England), Sandrine Soubeyrand (France), Rebecca Smith (New Zealand), Ingvild Stensland (Norway), and Christie Rampone (United States).


“One of the great things about representing our country on the big stages is the opportunity for us to support causes we care about,” said U.S. Women's World Cup Team captain Christie Rampone. “I signed onto a global campaign called Give AIDS the Red Card which helps to generate political action towards ending the AIDS epidemic among babies and young children around the world. I am confident about linking this noble cause with the game we all cherish.”


Rampone, who is among the more experienced U.S. players and will be playing in her fourth World Cup added, “UNAIDS asked the U.S. soccer team to help lead this campaign around the world, and we are happy to lend our support on a global stage to a global problem. The UN wants to end pediatric AIDS by 2015 and so do we!”


The captains of the other competing teams, including Australia, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Equatorial Guinea, Germany, Japan, DPR Korea, Mexico, Nigeria, and Sweden, will also be encouraged to become “Red Card Advocates” by signing the appeal during the tournament and publicize global efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV by 2015.


There are 34 million people globally living with HIV, of whom 22.5 million are in sub-Saharan Africa. Despite progress towards the goal of eliminating new HIV infections among children, in 2009 alone there were 370,000 children born with HIV, bringing to 2.5 million the total number of children under 15 living with HIV.


The 2011 Women's World Cup is one of several high-profile football championships, including the 2012 African Nations Cup and UEFA Euro 2012, leading up to the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, that can provide platforms for raising wide awareness about the campaign to eliminate HIV in children.


Distributed by the Africa Press Organization (APO) on behalf of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

Source: The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

TOP NEWS HEADLINES





Friday, June 24, 2011

Color Trends Help Perfumers Create Winning Fragrances



In this special report on how colours affect the moods of people on fragrances, I am featuring the hot videos of the commercials of sexy pop music diva Rihanna's fragrance called Reb'l Fleur and Beyoncé Knowles's erotic commercial for her new perfume Heat that was banned in the UK.



24 Jun 2011 22:00 Africa/Lagos


Report: Color Trends Help Perfumers Create Winning Fragrances



Color trends inspire perfumers to create innovative fragrances and the distinctive colors of a product set consumer expectations about how the product should smell



PR Newswire

ATLANTA, June 21, 2011

ATLANTA, June 21, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- A comprehensive study from the fragrance company Arylessence says that our sense of sight and smell are closely linked and work together to help consumers make buying decisions. Color trends stimulate perfumers in the creation of new and different fragrances, the study says, and the distinctive colors of a product and its packaging set expectations among consumers about how the product should smell. Conducted among female consumers in Atlanta, the study demonstrated that people can describe the 'scent' of selected colors, and typically use the same words to describe the scent's emotional effect.



"Traditionally, perfumers have depended on the product itself for creative inspiration – or on how products in a category should be perceived," says Arylessence President Steve Tanner. "Our research shows that color works even more effectively to shape consumer expectations, and that the colors of a product and its packaging translate into winning fragrances that reflect the power of the whole brand."

Arylessence marketing experts track the colors, shades and hues that reflect 'deep trends' in the consumer marketplace and reveal the preferences shoppers have for the products they buy, how they dress themselves and their children, and how they decorate their homes. These definitive color factors shape fragrance design.

"Our passion for color influences all the choices we make as consumers," says Arylessence Director of Marketing Lori Miller Burns. "Creating winning fragrances today means studying every facet of product and packaging – especially color and design – and then developing scents that capture the brand's visual power. Consumers expect all these elements to be in perfect harmony."



Unique fragrance approach

Working closely with marketers, Arylessence teams use a complex model to analyze the brand, understand target consumers, and evaluate the predominant colors of product, packaging, and marketing communications.



"We help marketers align every element that constitutes the brand in the consumer's imagination," says Lori Miller Burns. "Our perfumers create fragrances that reflect the whole brand, have the power to attract consumers, and ultimately, become part of the consumer's life. Among all the components of a brand, fragrance is the one that makes the strongest emotional connection. Color helps make that connection happen."

About Arylessence

Arylessence is a leading fragrance and flavor company known for creative innovation in beauty and cosmetics, personal care, laundry and household products, air care, and pharmaceuticals, as well as prepared foods, beverages, oral care, lip care, and confectionary products. Leaders in natural and organic fragrances, as well as sustainably-produced scents for today's environmentally sensitive products, Arylessence perfumers, scientists and marketing experts work closely with clients in a multi-disciplinary, team-based environment. Arylessence provides marketing resources, proprietary development processes, and strategic insights to help clients achieve product differentiation, consumer preference, and market success. For more about Arylessence: www.arylessence.com.

SOURCE Arylessence, Inc.

CONTACT: Lori Miller Burns, Arylessence Director of Marketing, +1-770-924-3775, loriburns@arylessence.com

Web Site: http://www.arylessence.com


Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time


24 Jun 2011


11:04
Few Hate Shopping For Clothes, but Love of It Varies By Country


02:39
Retailer Takes Action Against Rogue Products


23 Jun 2011


18:13
Retailer Brings a Slice of the Big Apple to Natural Beauty Conscious Brits


11:04
What's in a Label?


22 Jun 2011


13:11
Roger Ferguson, President and CEO, TIAA-CREF, Named as CED Co-Chair


21 Jun 2011


22:00
Report: Color Trends Help Perfumers Create Winning Fragrances



Few Hate Shopping For Clothes, but Love of It Varies By Country



24 Jun 2011 11:04 Africa/Lagos


Few Hate Shopping For Clothes, but Love of It Varies By Country

To some, brands matter in clothes shopping, but to many, good brand names equal quality

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, June 24, 2011

NEW YORK, June 24, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- There are some people who just love to go clothes shopping. Then there are others who only do so when the clothes they currently own are literally wearing out and need to be replaced. Depending on where in the world one lives, there is a penchant for loving or hating shopping for clothes. In the U.S., there is a clear divide as 39% say they like shopping for clothes, and three in ten each say they neither like nor dislike it (30%) and dislike it (30%).

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100517/NY06256LOGO)

In other countries it is more clear and mostly in favor of shopping. Over nine in ten in India (92%) say they like shopping for clothes with over half (58%) saying they love it. Majorities in China (79%), Singapore (69%), Spain (60%), Italy (60%) and Great Britain (53%) all like clothes shopping as do just under half of Germans (47%). French adults are like Americans and a little divided on the issue with 38% liking it, 32% neither liking nor disliking clothes shopping and 30% disliking it.

These are some of the results of The Harris Poll conducted online by Harris Interactive among 9,222 adults in Singapore, Hong Kong, China and India (June 1 and 10, 2011), the U.S. (May 24 and 26, 2011) and Great Britain, France, Germany, Spain and Italy (May 25 and June 1, 2011).

Brand name importance in clothes purchases



In China and India, brand names are more important than in the rest of the countries surveyed. Almost three-quarters of adults in both India (74%) and China (72%) say brand names are important to them when purchasing clothes and fashion accessories. Around three-quarters of adults in Germany (78%), Great Britain (76%), France (75%), the U.S. (74%), Spain (72%), and Italy (72%) as well as two-thirds of adults in Singapore (64%) say brand names are not important to them when purchasing clothes or fashion accessories.

In China and India part of the importance of brand names may be because of perception of quality. Over nine in ten Chinese adults (92%) and 89% of Indian adults agree that good brand names provide better value due to quality. Although adults in other countries may place less importance on labels when shopping, they do agree that brand names provide better value due to quality—majorities of adults in Singapore (75%), the U.S. (65%), Italy (63%), and France (53%) as well as just under half of Britons (48%) and Germans (47%) say so.

Last purchases

When it comes to making clothing purchases two in five adults in India (44%) and China (42%) made a purchase in the last week, while one-third of those in Great Britain (33%) and Singapore (32%) and three in ten in Germany (31%), Italy (29%) and Spain (28%) as well as one-quarter of Americans (26%) made their last purchase more than a week ago but in the past month. Three in ten French adults (29%) made their last clothing purchase more than a month ago, but less than three months ago.

Looking at why the last clothing purchases were made, reasons vary. Half of Italians (49%) and Spaniards (49%), two in five Germans (43%) and French (41%) and just over one-third of Americans (36%) and Britons (34%) say their most recent acquisition was a necessary purchase. Two in five adults in Singapore (41%) and China (40%) made their last purchase because they were just browsing and the item caught their eye while one-quarter of Indians (25%) say they made their recent purchase for a specific occasion.

So What?

In some countries, like China and India, when marketing clothes it is important to highlight the brand names but in other countries, that does not seem to be as important to purchasing decisions. What is important in 8 of the 9 countries surveyed is an emphasis on classics rather than trendy. In every country but Spain, majorities agree with the statement "I tend to purchase classics versus trends." As these countries are still coming out of the economic downturn, each at their own pace, clothing manufacturers should keep this in mind as they roll out new lines.


Click here for the detailed report.


Top Topics






Tuesday, June 21, 2011

ÀSÀBÍ, the scent of Nike Oshinowo's beauty for all seasons


Ms. Nike Oshinowo


Today I met with Nigeria’s leading beauty icon, Nike Oshinowo in her office.
Ms. Oshinowo recently launched her own fragrance ÀSÀBÍ from her Yoruba middle name, meaning 'special birth'. I sampled ÀSÀBÍ in her office and I can say that it is worth the N5,000 a bottle and you should try it before saying anything about it. How can you talk about a product without testing it? Test it first and then you can jive or talk about it.



Our meeting was too brief for me to say much on her personality since I am not known to jump to conclusions from first impressions. She was polite and I was not surprised that she could speak well since she had a good education from studying at the famous University of Essex where another famous Nigerian Ben Okri also had excellent British education and became the youngest winner of the Booker Prize in 1991 with his epic novel The Famished Road, the same year Nike won the iMost Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) beauty pageant and of all the past queens, she has become the most ambitious beauty queen with a successful business in the underdeveloped beauty industry in Nigeria. She is one of the trail blazers re-branding Nigeria in a period of new challenges like Ben Okri’s A Time for New Dreams and she has been credited for relaunching the prestigious Miss Nigeria pageant in 2010 after it was abandoned over six years ago by the troubled Daily Times of Nigeria.

I hope that one fine day Nike Oshinowo’s ÀSÀBÍ will make the list of hottest fragrances of the top ten perfume & cologne sellers in the world. And we need to celebrate our own proudly Nigerian beauty icon by spreading the wonderful aroma of ÀSÀBÍ, the scent of love.

~ By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima

THE TOP 10 WORLD’S MOST EXPENSIVE PERFUMES
~ by Euro Jay

Clive Christian Perfume



Price: $215,000

One of the most expensive perfumes in the world, Clive Christian Perfume has such a majestic aroma that it can mesmerize anyone around you. The fragrance is such that people would start knowing you with this smell and hence will be your signature aroma. This was introduced 6 years ago but still holds a very strong position and is one of the most liked fragrances when we talk about the most memorable scents all over the world. Clive Christian costs $215,000, not just because of its splendid fragrance, but also because it in a bottle, which is decked in five-carat white diamond and decorated on an 18 carat-gold collar. This stunning pack is for $ 175,000 and the remaining $31,650 is for the perfume.

2. 18 Carats LUXE Edition Perfume

Price: $57,000

Perfumes are not only for women as everyone wants to smell good. The most expensive list of perfumes not only consist fragrances for women but also for men as 18 Carats LUXE Edition Perfume, which is the world’s second most expensive one for guys. Apart from the strong and amazing fragrance, the perfume is bottled in a very luxurious pack made of golden body with a diamond crown. The bottle is designed by Noe Duchaufour-Lawrence, which is only for privileged buyers and the bottle is available in 100 ml and can be refilled with the perfume.

3. Ora Ito’s fragrance



Price: $45,000

For the art lover who wants to indulge themselves in amazing fragrances, Guerlain is introducing the artistic edition of the fragrance Idylle. One of the world’s most demanded perfume Ora Ito’s fragrances is created by Thierry Wasser and the fragrance is dedicated for all the lovers. The scent is a blend of mild lilies, peonies and roses, which no lover can overlook. The fluidly designed bottle is crafted in 18 carat gold. The box is encased in bubble designed of beautiful and artistic Baccarat crystal and is further packed in a lacquered wood box.

4. Les Larmes Sacrées de Thebes of Baccarat

Price: $6,800 per bottle

Another awesome fragrance from the house of Baccarat, the company known for producing crystal-encrusted bottles to pack exclusive perfume. This amazing scent was earlier launched in 1998 and was a huge success amongst the fairer sex and is known for its exclusive aroma. Baccarat is well known for designing some of the most astonishing perfume bottles in the world with entrenched crystals and stunning designs. The perfume is bottled in an amazing and unique pyramid shaped bottle and also a delightful and refined smell.

5. Ralph Lauren Perfume Notorious

Price: $3,540

The man best known for his Polo Ralph Lauren clothing brand, Ralph Lauren is not restricted to the clothing business but has also tried his hand on different fragrances. The American fashion designer has launched a super premium called “Love,” which is much in demand in the age group of 25 and above women. The perfume is bottled in a gold plated box and is one of the most demanded perfumes of that age group.

6. Bond No. 9 perfume

Price: $3,500

Swarovski has always been a woman’s all-time favorite, and when it is blended with their favorite fragrance it becomes icing on the cake. The limited edition luxury falcons Bond No. 9 perfume is a perfume bottle that is studded with expensive and glittering Swarovski crystals. The scent is the much known Bleecker Street fragrance that consists of aroma of patchouli, black currant leaves and buds, caramel, wood and musk. The Crystallized Amphora bottle, which comes in a signature of Bond No. 9 and is encrusted with 16,500 platinum Swarovski stones is one of the most famous perfumes among the celebrities that come in 32 fragrances.

7. Dream de Rachel Elbaz perfume

Price: $2,446

Designed by French couture designer Rachel Elbaz, the Dream de Rachel Elbaz perfume is a one of its kinds fragrance and is exclusively made for the age group of 40-plus. The scent is a very delicate feminine touch blended with aroma of amber, patchouli and jasmine, which is made in South of France since it is famous for elegant fragrances. Packed in an elegant embossed gold lettering silk-lined box and the bottle is encrusted with ample Swarovski crystals, an apt thing to gift a special lady in your life.

8. Caron’s Poivre Perfume 2 oz Perfume

Price: $2000

Established in the land of fragrance “Paris,” the Caron’s Poivre Perfumes have 101 years of experience in this field. Famous for its originality and mind fragrances, the Poivre Perfume was originally created in 1954 and comes in a blend red and black pepper, cloves and other spices, and is apt for both the sexes. The perfume is bottled in an exquisite Baccarat crystal that looks like a beautiful piece of an expensive jewelry.

9. Annick Goutal Perfume EAU D’hadrien

Price: $1,500 for 3,4 ounces bottle

A dazzling composition of fresh citrus fragrance of lemons from Sicily and grapefruits which is ripened under the Italian sun blend specially to create this exquisite fragrance. For the timeless fragrance lovers, the perfume is bottled in a beautiful crystal, which is perfect to gift to someone you love.

10. Hermes Perfume 24 Faubourg

Price: $1,500 for 1 oz bottle

Created by Maurice Roucel in 1995, Hermes Perfume 24 Faubourg is one of the mildest perfumes available with the long-lasting fragrance. The mild perfume is created especially for women who love the feminine fragrance. Bottled in a beautiful crystal and caped with brilliant white flowers enveloped in iris and wood.

TOP 10 BEST SELLING PERFUMES

Top Selling No. 1:
Amor Amor perfume By Cacharel 3.3 oz EDT Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 2:
Aqua Di Gio perfume By Armani 3.4 oz EDT Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 3:
Attraction perfume By Lancome 3.4 oz EDP Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 4:
Andrienne Vittadini perfume By Adrienne Vittadini 3.4 Oz EDP Spray. For Women

Top Selling No. 5:
Burberry London New perfume By Burberry 3.4 oz EDP Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 6:
Beautiful perfume By Estee Lauder 2.5 oz EDP Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 7:
212 perfume By Carolina Herrera 3.4 oz EDT Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 8:
Chanel 19 perfume By Chanel 3.4 oz EDT Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 9:
Chic perfume By Carolina Herrera 2.8 oz EDP Spray For Women

Top Selling No. 10:
Cool Water perfume By Davidoff 3.4 oz EDT Spray For Women



Releases displayed in Africa/Lagos time


19 Jun 2011


12:38
Rugby and Fire Heroes Support BRUT Race for Recovery in Aid of Help for Heroes


17 Jun 2011


04:00
Jostens Delivers Green Bay Packers Super Bowl XLV Rings


16 Jun 2011


17:04
Kelly Choi to Receive HBA's Positively Beautiful Award


15:05
Coty Beauty Introduces Beyonce Pulse


13:15
Rockin' Green Cloth Diaper & Laundry Detergent REMIXED - Rockin' a New Scent and Sportin' a New Look


15 Jun 2011


22:00
Elie Saab Debuts First Fragrance


20:57
The Environment America Research & Policy Center Recognizes SC Johnson for Its Commitment to Green Chemistry


14:30
Zacks.com Featured Expert Kevin Matras Highlights: The Cato Corporation, Colfax Corporation, Frontier Oil Corporation, Ulta Salon, Cosmetics & Fragrance, Inc. and Vitamin Shoppe, Inc.


14:20
P&G Beauty & Grooming Announces "My Beauty Adviser" Mobile Application


13:00
Fragrance Industry Launches New Animated Video Series


14 Jun 2011


20:51
Council Response to Release of Final FDA Sunscreen Monograph


15:00
Degree® le da a las mujeres un motivo para moverse


13:30
Find the Best in Gadgets, Grilling and Grooming in Just One Stop This Father's Day at CVS/pharmacy




Monday, June 20, 2011

Bank of America Presents 19th HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival



20 Jun 2011 16:33 Africa/Lagos

The HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival Presented by Bank of America Celebrates Its 19th Year

FREE OUTDOOR CLASSIC FILM SERIES JUNE 20 - AUGUST 22
Director, Milos Foreman, will attend on opening night to introduce "One Flew Over the Cuckoos Nest"

PR Newswire

NEW YORK, June 20, 2011

NEW YORK, June 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Once again, Bryant Park will be a destination for film buffs on summer nights in New York City, with an all-star legendary film line up for the 19th year of the HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival presented by Bank of America and in association with The Bryant Park Corporation.

Continuing the popular tradition of presenting "stars under the stars," the free outdoor festival returns Monday evenings at sunset, beginning June 20 and running through August 22. The season kicks off on the first day of summer with ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST, starring Jack Nicholson as a patient who leads a revolt at a mental facility in this 1975 favorite.


A scene from "Gentlemen Prefer Blondes"

The film's Oscar winning director Milos Foreman, will attend the opening night festivities in Bryant Park on June 20th to introduce the film.

The festival's closing night film, DIRTY HARRY, stars Clint Eastwood who made movie history when he took the role of Harry Callahan. Other highlights of this year's festival include Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell in GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES, Paul Newman in COOL HAND LUKE, and Oscar winning film IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT.



"Support for the film festival reflects our belief that the arts, in all its forms, should be shared with the widest possible audience," said Jeff Barker, Bank of America New York City president. "Only in New York can you spend a summer evening outdoors with legends of the screen and people from all walks of life amid the city's skyscrapers."

"It is with great pride that HBO enters its 19th year of showing classic films on the big screen in Bryant Park. The festival has turned into a favorite summertime tradition for many New Yorkers. As neighbors of Bryant Park, it is a great way for HBO and Bank of America to give back to the city," said Bill Nelson, Chairman and CEO, HBO.

The films will be projected in 35mm onto a screen 20 feet high by 40 feet wide. Bryant Park is located at 42nd Street and the Avenue of the Americas. Snacks, meals and refreshments are available at Bryant Park food kiosks and restaurants. Each presentation will show on Monday evenings starting at sunset. The lawn opens at 5pm. Classic animation provided courtesy of Warner Bros.

For more information, call the HBO Bryant Park Summer Film Festival hotline at (212) 512-5700. For film series information, visit the festival's website at hbo.com/hbobryantparkfilmfestival (will be live by June 1st).

THE HBO BRYANT PARK SUMMER FILM FESTIVAL 2011

PRESENTED BY BANK OF AMERICA

JUNE 20 ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST (Saul Zaentz Co.)-Rebellious Jack Nicholson leads a patient revolt at a mental facility. He urges the inmates to rebel against the nasty Nurse Ratched (Louise Fletcher). Based on the Ken Kesey novel, it has been directed with force, humanity and a sly smile by Milos Forman. It is the second film (after "It Happened One Night") to score an Oscar Grand Slam, winning the five top prizes. Kirk Douglas owned the screen rights for years, but was too senior to play the lead when son Michael finally co-produced. The American Film Institute ranked "Cuckoo" as #33 Greatest Movie of All Time. (1975) 133 Min.

JUNE 27 THE 39 STEPS (MGM)-An innocent man goes on the run to prove he is not a murderer and that a spy ring exists in Scotland. The exuberant thriller is one of Alfred Hitchcock's early British masterpieces. Robert Donat is the "everyman" in trouble and Madeleine Carroll is the classy blonde who lends a helping hand. It has been remade several times for big screen, small screen, even radio, but never as successfully. It even turned up recently as a cleverly conceived show on Broadway and in London's West End. Watch out for a villain with a missing finger and a music hall performer named Mr. Memory. You won't forget him. Special thanks to the British Academy of Film and Television Arts New York (BAFTA New York) (1935) 86 Min.

JULY 4 EASY RIDER (Sony/Col) Stoners Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper (he also directed) hit the road on their customized motorcycles to find the "real" America. 1960's peace and love soon turn to fear and hate. The script was Oscar-nominated, though reportedly much was improvised between L.A. and New Orleans, as the low budget movie was being shot by Laszlo Kovacs. Rumor also has it that plenty of marijuana was smoked on this road trip, giving new meaning to the term "high"way. Steppenwolf, The Byrds, The Band, Jimi Hendrix and Little Eva are heard on the soundtrack. And yes, that is legendary record producer Phil Spector making a cameo appearance as a drug dealer. (1969) 94 Min.

JULY 11 GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES (TCF)-They may be just "two little girls from Little Rock," but Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell are on the trail of bigger stones. As we all know, "diamonds are a girl's best friend." Two gold digging showgirls head for Paris in this brightly colored musical comedy based on the Anita Loos story and a Broadway hit starring Carol Channing. Fox intended it as a movie showcase for their biggest star Betty Grable, but Marilyn came cheaper. The musical number "Anyone Here For Love?" featuring the statuesque Russell and a gaggle of disinterested chorus boys (as the U.S. Olympic team!) is a genuine camp classic. (1953) 91 Min.

JULY 18 IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT (MGM)-This taut murder mystery was the surprise Oscar winner for Best Picture over "Bonnie and Clyde" and "The Graduate." Ironically, that very award ceremony was postponed due to the assassination of Martin Luther King. Rod Steiger plays a bigoted Mississippi sheriff who is reluctant to accept help from a black, big city detective Sidney ("Call me Mister Tibbs") Poitier. Due to racial unrest in the South, filming necessarily took place in Illinois. The moody Quincy Jones score was Grammy nominated and Ray Charles made the title song an instant standard. (1967) 109 Min.

JULY 25 THE LADY EVE (Universal)-This sparkling romantic comedy is the work of a master, Preston Sturges. Barbara Stanwyck (at her most tempting) is a con artist/card shark out to dupe the clueless heir to a brewery fortune (Henry Fonda). He is an ophiologist by trade and knows more about snakes than girls. Just back from a year up the Amazon on a serpent hunt, he is an apple ripe for the plucking. The script is brimming with sophisticated banter (earning an Oscar nomination for Best Writing, Original Story), but Sturges is not above some well-placed slapstick and physical pratfalls. In 2002, the AFI placed it #26 on a list of Top 100 Greatest Love Stories in American cinema. (1941) 94 Min.

AUG. 1 COOL HAND LUKE (Warner Bros.)-"What we've got here is…failure to communicate." So says a sadistic guard (Strother Martin) to Luke (Paul Newman) who is serving time on a Dixie chain gang. Luke has trouble with authority figures and will find countless ways to rebel against the system during his incarceration. You may never be able to face an egg again after the justifiably famous (and excruciating) eating scene in which Luke puts away over four dozen of the hard-boiled variety. Newman received his fourth Oscar nomination, but it was supporting actor George Kennedy, as a fellow inmate, who took home an acting prize. (1967) 126 Min. (Panavision)

AUG 8 AIRPLANE! (Paramount)-"You ever been in a cockpit before?" No? Well, now's your chance. The gags just keep coming and coming in this raucous spoof of Hollywood's all-star disaster epics. A Zucker/Abrahams/Zucker collaboration, it was nominated for a Golden Globe as Best Comedy and won a WGA award for Best Comedy Script. These are the same wild and crazy guys responsible for the popular "Naked Gun" series. Star turns by Robert Stack, Lloyd Bridges, Peter Graves and the late, great Leslie ("Don't call me Shirley") Nielsen. Cameos are by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Maureen McGovern and an autopilot inflatable doll! (1980) 86 min.

AUG. 15 HIGH SIERRA (Warner Bros.)-The landmark crime drama by Raoul Walsh took Humphrey Bogart off the "B" list and propelled him into superstardom. His big hit "The Maltese Falcon" came out later the same year. Here he is Roy "Mad Dog" Earle, a hardened ex-con on the lam from the cops, who, way deep down, has a heart of gold. The part was intended for Paul Muni (contract dispute) or George Raft. Bogie himself convinced Raft to turn down the role. Good move. "Sierra" was co-scripted by his old friend and drinking buddy, John Huston. Top-billed Ida Lupino co-stars as the devoted moll and Bogart's own pooch, Zero, appears as the cute mongrel Pard. (1941) 100 Min.

AUG. 22 DIRTY HARRY (Warner Bros.)-Clint Eastwood made movie history when he took the role of Harry Callahan. He went on to play the iconic cop four more times. Originally considered for the part were Frank Sinatra, Marlon Brando, Steve McQueen and Paul Newman, but the "Gods of Hollywood Casting' were smiling down on Clint. No more Italian westerns. Don Siegel's direction packs quite a punch, as Harry goes about ridding the San Francisco streets of a serial sniper. His unique take on law enforcement involves carrying a very large .44 Magnum. Are ya feeling lucky, punk? Come on, make Harry's day. (1971) 102 min. (Panavision)

HBO

Home Box Office, Inc. is the premium television programming subsidiary of Time Warner Inc., providing two pay television services – HBO® and Cinemax® – to approximately 85 million subscribers worldwide . The services offer the most popular subscription video-on-demand products, HBO On Demand® and Cinemax On Demand® as well as HBO GO® and MAX GO®, HD feeds and multiplex channels. Internationally, HBO branded television networks, along with the subscription video-on-demand products HBO On Demand and HBO GO, bring HBO services to over 60 countries. HBO programming is sold into over 150 countries worldwide.

HBO's philanthropic efforts are defined by a mission to cultivate and develop new talent through support of innovative educational organizations. We are committed to ensuring the stories we present reflect the diverse world in which we live and the voices from all communities are provided the access and resources to share their experiences with audiences around the world.

BANK OF AMERICA AND THE ARTS

As one of the world's largest financial institutions and a major supporter of arts and culture, Bank of America has a vested interest and plays a meaningful role in the international dialogue on cultural understanding. As a global company, Bank of America demonstrates its commitment to the arts by supporting such efforts as after-school arts programs, grants to help expand libraries, programs to conserve artistic heritage as well as a campaign to encourage museum attendance. Bank of America offers customers free access to more than 150 of the nation's finest cultural institutions through its acclaimed Museums on Us® program, while Art in our Communities® shares exhibits from the company's corporate collection with communities across the globe through local museum partners. The Bank of America Charitable Foundation also provides philanthropic support to museums, theaters and other arts-related nonprofits to expand their services and offerings to schools and communities. Bank of America partners with more than six thousand arts institutions worldwide.

BRYANT PARK CORPORATION

Bryant Park Corporation (BPC), a private not-for-profit company, was founded in 1980 to renovate, finance, and operate Bryant Park in New York City. BPC is funded by income from events, concessions, and corporate sponsors, as well as an assessment on neighboring properties, and does not accept government or philanthropic monies. In addition to providing security and sanitation services, and tending the park's lush lawn and seasonal garden displays, BPC provides public amenities and activities, including movable chairs and tables, café umbrellas, restaurants, food kiosks, world-class restrooms, and a wide range of free events throughout the year. The Midtown park, conveniently located at 6th Avenue between 40th and 42nd Streets, is visited by over 5 million people each year and is one of the busiest public spaces in the world. BPC's website, www.bryantpark.org, provides more detailed information and a schedule of upcoming events.

SOURCE HBO

CONTACT: Suzanne Pinto, HBO, +1-212-512-1904; T.J. Crawford, Bank of America, +1-646-855-3301

Web Site: http://www.hbo.com/hbobryantparkfilmfestival



Miss California USA, Alyssa Campanella is Miss USA 2011!


Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella attends the official Miss USA 2011.

20 Jun 2011 05:18 Africa/Lagos

Miss California USA Crowned Miss USA 2011 During Live NBC Telecast



PR Newswire

LAS VEGAS, June 20, 2011

LAS VEGAS, June 20, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- This evening, during one of the year's most watched live television events, a star-studded panel of judges chose Miss California USA, Alyssa Campanella, as Miss USA 2011. Bravo's "Watch What Happens: Live" host and executive producer Andy Cohen and "E! News" co-anchor Giuliana Rancic hosted the 60th Annual MISS USA® Pageant from Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino in one of the world's most electrifying cities, Las Vegas . Kelly Osbourne of E!'s "Fashion Police" and Susan Castillo, Miss USA 2003, were also on hand providing skybox color commentary throughout the LIVE telecast.

Alyssa Campanella is a 21 year-old model from Sherman Oaks, California. After graduating a year early from high school, Campanella moved out on her own at age 17 to conquer the world. She enjoys collecting old history books and is passionate about space exploration.



Miss USA 2011 Alyssa Campanella attends the official Miss USA 2011 after party at Chateau Nightclub and Gardens at Paris Las Vegas, June 19, 2011 in Las Vegas, Nev. (Denise Truscello/Getty Images

The judging panel for the 2011 MISS USA® Pageant included: Tyson Chandler , Center for Dallas Mavericks and 2011 NBA Champion; Rocco DiSpirito , Celebrity chef; Mariel Hemingway , Oscar-nominated American actress and writer; Penn Jillette, the larger, louder half of comedy magic duo Penn & Teller; Lil Jon , American rapper, music producer, and "Celebrity Apprentice" finalist; Caroline Manzo , from Bravo's hit series "The Real Housewives of New Jersey"; Suzi Weiss-Fischmann , Co-Founder of OPI Products; Zuleyka Rivera , Miss Universe 2006; and Football Legend, Marcus Allen .

British Rapper Tinie Tempah performed his new song, "Written in the Stars" alongside featured artist Eric Turner during the evening gown portion of the competition.

Throughout the two-hour event, the contestants competed in three categories: swimsuit, evening gown and interview. Rima Fakih , MISS USA 2010, crowned her successor at the conclusion of the telecast, before an estimated worldwide viewing audience of more than 250 million.

Final Results:

First Runner Up: Miss Tennessee USA, Ashley Durham, will assume the duties of MISS USA 2011 if the titleholder is named MISS UNIVERSE 2011 or if for some reason MISS USA cannot fulfill her duties.

Second Runner Up: Miss Alabama USA, Madeline Grace Mitchell

Rest of Top Four: Miss Texas USA, Ana Christina Rodriguez

Rest of Top Eight: Miss Maine USA, Ashley-Lynn Marble
Miss South Carolina USA, Courtney Turner
Miss Hawaii USA, Angela Byrd
Miss Maryland USA, Allyn Rose

Rest of Top Sixteen: Miss Georgia USA, Kaylin Reque
Miss Arizona USA, Brittany Dawn Brannon
Miss Utah USA, Jamie Lynn Crandall
Miss Indiana USA, Jillian Wunderlich
Miss South Carolina USA, Courtney Turner
Miss Florida USA, Lissette Garcia
Miss Missouri USA, Hope Driskill
Miss New Mexico USA, Brittany Toll

MISS PHOTOGENIC USA™ Award: Miss Arizona USA, Brittany Brannon. The general public voted on www.nbc.com for the delegate who exemplifies beauty through the lens of a camera. She was awarded a $1,000 cash prize as well as a pair of Asteria earrings from Diamond Nexus Labs.

MISS CONGENIALITY USA™ Award: Miss Kentucky USA, Kia Hampton. The award reflects the respect and admiration of the contestant's peers, who voted for her as the most congenial, charismatic and inspirational participant. She was awarded a $1,000 cash prize as well as a pair of Asteria earrings from Diamond Nexus Labs.

The MISS USA® 2011 prize package includes: a custom diamond tiara and jewelry designed by Diamond Nexus Labs; a one year scholarship (including housing) from the New York Film Academy; a year's worth of hair care products and tools from Farouk Systems; an assortment of high fashion bracelets made in Rwanda by women of the Same Sky Trade Initiative; an eveningwear wardrobe by Sherri Hill ; a swimwear wardrobe by Kandy Wrappers; a shoe wardrobe from Chinese Laundry; a year's supply of nail care products from OPI Products, Inc.; a year's worth of sun care products from Australian Gold; luxury accommodations in a New York City apartment for the duration of her reign, including living expenses; a year-long salary as Miss USA; personal services including membership to Gravity Fitness and hair services from John Barrett Salon ; a year's worth of cosmetics from Rain Cosmetics; modeling portfolio by leading fashion photographer Fadil Berisha ; dermatology and skincare services provided by Dr. Cheryl Thellman-Karcher ; professional health and nutrition consultation by Tanya Zuckerbrot, MS, RD and dental services by Dr. Jan Linhart, D.D.S.; casting opportunities and professional representation by the Miss Universe Organization; extensive travel opportunities representing sponsors and charitable partners; access to various New York City events including movie premiers and screenings, Broadway shows and launch parties; year long consultation with Miss Universe Organization's Official Fashion Consultant, Alisha Crutchfield and access to a personal appearance wardrobe; professional media/public relations training and representation by Rubenstein Public Relations in New York City and the opportunity to represent the USA at the 2011 Miss Universe pageant this September in São Paulo, Brazil.

ABOUT THE MISS USA ® PAGEANT

The Miss Universe Organization, a Donald J. Trump and NBC Universal joint venture, is a global community empowering role models of beauty, health and leadership for young women of today. As part of the Miss Universe Organization, Miss USA is dedicated to partnering with charities around the world, and to increasing awareness of breast and ovarian cancers.

For more information, visit: www.missusa.com.

Follow Miss USA®:

* Facebook: www.facebook.com/OfficialMissUSA
* YouTube: www.youtube.com/OfficialMissUSA
* Twitter: TheRealMissUSA
* Blogs: www.missusa.com/blogs/index


SOURCE The Miss Universe Organization

CONTACT: Brenda Mendoza of The Miss Universe Organization, +1-347-247-8568, +1-212-373-4983, BMendoza@missuniverse.com; or Dara Busch, +1-212-843-8079, +1-908-672-3378 Cell, dbusch@rubensteinpr.com

Web Site: http://www.missuniverse.com

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