Kisses & Roses

From 'Triumph Inspiration Award' in Japan To "Fashion for Peace" in Kenya

2008-05-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

Kenyan Model Ajuma presents the haute couture of Paris based designer Imane Ayssi of Cameroon.

Bayo Adegbe, one of the most creative fashion designers in Africa was the talk of the town after the Fashion for Peace Show in Nairobi, Kenya.

A model in Bayo Adegbe's classic design.

More parade of Bayo Adegbe's fantastic designs.

Click here to see more on the "Fashion for Peace" show in Nairobi, Kenya.

Triumph Inspiration Award' Japan lingerie design competition

Getty Photo: Student designer designer Midori Matsuo (R) poses for photographs during the Triumph Inspiration

The Triumph Inspiration Award' Japan lingerie design competition was eye-popping!

Click here for more photographs and see samples for purchase.

The news video of the latest events in the fashion world is shown on Kisses & Roses TV section at the bottom of the blog. Simply scroll down to watch the best in fashion ever shown in the blogosphere.

Banja Luka Fashion fair
Swimsuit fashion show in Budapest
Weird fashion show
Autumn/Winter 2008/09 show at Fashion Week Mexico
Albania Fashion Week 4th day

Love Always, Petra

2008-05-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

Petra Němcová

On December 26, 2004, Petra Němcová was injured in Thailand by a tsunami resulting from the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake; her then-fiancé, Simon Atlee, was missing and his body was found three months later. This is the true life story of a young woman who survived a catastrophe and overcame the trauma of her great loss. She has continued her successful modeling career and also set up a charity to help children who are facing challenges in life. Petra Němcová is not only a survivor, but a conqueror and a victor who is an inspiration to the rest of us.
~ Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima

Love Always, Petra
Prologue
December 26, 2004
Khao Lak, Thailand
10:30 a.m.

Pain.
It brought me back to consciousness, a sharp, agonizing, throbbing pain racking my body, my legs.

My legs.
I opened my eyes and looked down. Black filthy water covered the lower half of my body. I couldn't even see my legs. My arms, bare, scratched, bleeding and aching, were wrapped around a palm tree. I was holding on, leaning against the trunk. Black, oil-slicked, muddied water choked with debris was everywhere. I looked up. The sky was blue, clear, untroubled, the sun was shining. Where was I? Where was Simon? What had happened?

I remembered.
Simon and I were in the bungalow when a rush of water rose up so suddenly there was not even a second to think, a rush of water that came from all directions, hurtling us out into the furious current. For one split second, before the water separated us, I saw Simon's face.
"Petra!" he screamed. "Petra! What's happening?"
I couldn't answer. I didn't know. Then I lost sight of him. Seconds later, I saw him again, whirling in the tumbling waters. He was a few yards ahead of me. Behind him a rooftop was sticking out of the water.
"Catch the roof! Catch the roof!" I shouted. Then he was gone. I don't know whether he heard me or not. I prayed that he would catch hold. I was sure he would. He was a strong swimmer; he had to be okay.

It was impossible to tell in which direction the waters were streaming. I needed to grab onto something or be swept away. I saw another rooftop. I reached out my arms, and sending out every bit of energy I had, I grabbed the edges and held on. Instantly, my legs were sucked underneath, and everything accumulated by the raging water, the wood and metal objects, all the trash, began slamming against my hips and legs. I hung on, screaming with pain and fear. I would be crushed into nothing. For the first time, I thought of dying.

Miraculously, the pressure of the water began to lessen. I pulled myself up onto the roof. My clothes had been torn from my body. I was naked. Then, as quickly as the first, another tremendous wave rose up and poured over the rooftop. I lost my grip and was drawn down beneath the water. Frantically, I flailed my arms, trying to get out from under the thick layer of filth between me and the surface. Desperately, I fought to get some air until I had no breath left. I stopped fighting, stopped struggling, and began swallowing the inky water. A great feeling of peacefulness came over me. I surrendered to the calmness. Whatever was meant to be, whatever God will decide, it's okay.

At that moment, without any effort on my part, I was thrust through the barrier of debris to the surface. I threw my head back and gasped for air. Above me was the blue, blue sky. I was never so happy in my life to see the sky.
I don't remember ever being happier. I was in Thailand, a country I loved, with my love, Simon Atlee. Simon was a photographer, and we'd been a couple for eighteen months. We were going to spend our second Christmas and New Year's together in a very special way. Usually, Simon booked our holidays, but this time I did everything. That is, I made all the arrangements through a travel agent in Los Angeles. She was Thai and took particular interest in helping me create the perfect vacation. This was my fifth visit to Thailand and Simon's first; I wanted him to experience with me the lush green of the land, the smells, the sunshine, the ocean, the food exploding with taste in your mouth, the culture, and most important, the people. The Thais are the kindest people I ever met, and it comes from inside -- it's not learned, it's natural. They put their hands together and bow their heads to greet you, taking the moment to show respect in such a gentle way. The gracefulness and peacefulness are addictive, and this land is in my heart. It had been nearly three years since my last visit, but the minute we arrived, I knew I was "home."
At Bangkok International Airport, we changed planes and flew on to the first of our three stops, Chiang Mai. This was my first visit to this city, so Simon and I were seeing things through the same eyes. We went on different tours, including guided visits to nearby Buddhist temples. One tour guide explained that, in the past, there had been a war between the Burmese and the Thais. Bad things happened, but the good thing was, the Burmese brought Buddhism to Thailand. I am inspired by the gentle teachings of the Buddha, so this was especially interesting to me.

We went to see a giant, seated Buddha on a nearby mountaintop. It wasn't a very touristy place; in fact, Simon and I were the only visitors. As is customary in many sacred places, we took off our shoes and went inside on our knees to pay our respects. We lit a candle and incense and placed flowers before the golden statue. Off to the side, two young monks wearing saffron robes were seated at a table with a checkerboard on top. The monks were playing checkers with flower petals and broken matches for the game pieces. Simon wanted to take a picture, but the minute he took out his camera, the monks put everything away and ran off. Obviously, they didn't want to get caught playing games.

We went to see the Long Neck Ladies, tall, thin, and elegant women who wear golden rings around their necks. These rings are a sign of beauty. They are put on starting when the women are little girls, and in time their necks stretch up many inches. I think they are a tribe from Burma.

Simon took lots of pictures, especially of one adorable little girl. She kept smiling and repeated every word Simon said.
"Hello."
"Hello."
"Can I take a picture?"
"Can I take a picture?"
"Thank you."
"Thank you."
Simon giggled like a schoolboy.

We went to the umbrella factories and the silk factories and bought presents. We went to see the amazing elephant shows. The elephants play football with their feet, play harmonicas with their trunks, and most incredible of all, they paint pictures on large pieces of paper. The keepers put brushes in their trunks, and the elephants paint with such a concentration -- not all over the place, but very precise. The keepers change the colors, and the elephants make flowers and trees. It is unbelievable, and even more unbelievable, the paper is made from elephant dung. Simon bought two of these specially prepared paintings for his niece and nephew. We fed bananas to the elephants and played with the cute little babies with the spiky hairs on their heads. Of course, we took an elephant ride through the jungle.

Click here to continue reading "Love Always, Petra".

Sweethearts @ Cannes 2008

2008-05-26T09:04:00.000-07:00

Kisses & Roses reported the highlights at the 61st Cannes Film Festival and for my wrap, admire the sweethearts at the red carpet events.

Argentine Director Pablo Trapero kisses beautiful actress Martina Gusman

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Martina Gusman is all smiles

Hot, pretty and sexy model Petra Nemcova

Petra Nemcova is really having fun

Petra Nemcova strikes a unique pose

Beautiful actress Rachida Brakni

Penelope Cruz

Click here for so much more from the 61st Cannes Film Festival

Borrow A Leaf From Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf

2008-05-26T06:09:00.000-07:00

"Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf is a magnificent leader and an amazing woman."
~ Laura Bush, the First Lady of the United States of America

To all the women in Africa
Borrow a leaf from Ellen Johnson Sirleaf
The Mother of modern Liberia.
Follow her golden footprints in the golden sand of time
From the heart of Morovia to the soul of Wisconsin in Madison
From the soul of Wisconsin to the bowels of the Colorado
And from bowels of the Colarado to the pantheon of Harvard.
Where she waited at tables to pay her dues and her fees.
She was found worthy of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority
And finally she won the crown to be the Queen of state
As the first woman in Africa to become the President
And Head of state of a nation.
She is the "Iron Lady" who has won her Medal of Freedom.

Borrow a leaf from Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf .

Dima Bilan Clinches Russia's First Victory in the Eurovision Song Contest

2008-05-26T02:27:00.000-07:00

Dima Bilan clinches Russia's first victory in the Eurovision Song Contest. The show, held this year in Belgrade, drew a television audience of some 100 million for the annual glitz-fest now in its 53rd year.
© 2008 Reuters

Laurent Cantet's "The Class," Wins the Palme d'Or at Cannes

2008-05-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Laurent Cantet's "The Class," has won the Palme d'Or at the 61st Cannes International Film Festival. It is a classroom drama shot in a French school using real students and teachers.

This is great for French cinema, because the last time a French film won the top prize was 21 years ago.

Cannes 2008 Official Selection

2008-05-25T11:58:00.000-07:00

Feature films in Competition
ADORATION directed by Atom EGOYAN
BLINDNESS directed by Fernando MEIRELLES
CHE directed by Steven SODERBERGH
DELTA directed by Kornel MUNDRUCZO
ENTRE LES MURS (THE CLASS) directed by Laurent CANTET
ER SHI SI CHENG JI directed by Zhangke JIA
GOMORRA (GOMORRAH) directed by Matteo GARRONE
IL DIVO directed by Paolo SORRENTINO
L'ÉCHANGE (CHANGELING) directed by Clint EASTWOOD
LA FRONTIÈRE DE L'AUBE (FRONTIER OF DAWN) directed by Philippe GARREL
LA MUJER SIN CABEZA (THE HEADLESS WOMAN) directed by Lucrecia MARTEL
LE SILENCE DE LORNA (LORNA’S SILENCE) directed by Jean-Pierre et Luc DARDENNE
LEONERA directed by Pablo TRAPERO
LINHA DE PASSE directed by Walter SALLES, Daniela THOMAS
MY MAGIC directed by Eric KHOO
PALERMO SHOOTING directed by Wim WENDERS
SERBIS directed by Brillante MENDOZA
SYNECDOCHE, NEW YORK directed by Charlie KAUFMAN
TWO LOVERS directed by James GRAY
ÜÇ MAYMUN (THREE MONKEYS) directed by Nuri Bilge CEYLAN
UN CONTE DE NOËL (A CHRISTMAS TALE) directed by Arnaud DESPLECHIN
WALTZ WITH BASHIR directed by Ari FOLMAN

Un Certain Regard
A FESTA DA MENINA MORTA (THE DEAD GIRL'S FEAST) directed by Matheus NACHTERGAELE
AFTERSCHOOL directed by Antonio CAMPOS
DE OFRIVILLIGA (INVOLUNTARY) directed by Ruben ÖSTLUND
HUNGER directed by Steve MCQUEEN
JE VEUX VOIR directed by Joana HADJITHOMAS, Khalil JOREIGE
JOHNNY MAD DOG directed by Jean-Stéphane SAUVAIRE
LA VIE MODERNE (MODERN LIFE) directed by Raymond DEPARDON
LOS BASTARDOS directed by Amat ESCALANTE
MILH HADHA AL-BAHR (SALT OF THIS SEA) directed by Annemarie JACIR
O' HORTEN directed by Bent HAMER
OCEAN FLAME directed by Fen Dou LIU
SOI COWBOY directed by Thomas CLAY
TING CHE directed by Mong-Hong CHUNG
TOKYO SONATA directed by Kiyoshi KUROSAWA
TOKYO! directed by Michel GONDRY, Leos CARAX, Joon Ho BONG
TULPAN directed by Sergey DVORTSEVOY
TYSON directed by James TOBACK
VERSAILLES directed by Pierre SCHOELLER
WENDY AND LUCY (WENDY ET LUCY) directed by Kelly REICHARDT
WOLKE 9 (CLOUD 9) directed by Andreas DRESEN

Out of Competition
INDIANA JONES AND THE KINGDOM OF THE CRYSTAL SKULL directed by Steven SPIELBERG
KUNG FU PANDA directed by Mark OSBORNE, John STEVENSON
MARADONA BY KUSTURICA directed by Emir KUSTURICA
SURVEILLANCE directed by Jennifer LYNCH
THE CHASER directed by Hong-Jin NA
THE GOOD, THE BAD, THE WEIRD directed by Jee-woon KIM
VICKY CRISTINA BARCELONA directed by Woody ALLEN
WHAT JUST HAPPENED? directed by Barry LEVINSON

Special screenings
ASHES OF TIME REDUX directed by Kar Wai WONG
C'EST DUR D'ÊTRE AIMÉ PAR DES CONS directed by Daniel LECONTE
CHELSEA ON THE ROCKS directed by Abel FERRARA
OF TIME AND THE CITY directed by Terence DAVIES
ROMAN POLANSKI: WANTED AND DESIRED directed by Marina ZENOVICH
SANGUEPAZZO directed by Marco Tullio GIORDANA
THE THIRD WAVE directed by Alison THOMPSON

Cinefondation
BA YUE SHI WU (AUGUST 15TH) directed by Xuan JIANG
BLIND SPOT directed by Johanna BESSIERE, Cécile DUBOIS HERRY, Nicolas CHAUVELOT, Simon ROUBY, Olivier CLERT, Yvon JARDEL
EL RELOJ (THE WATCH) directed by Marco BERGER
ET DANS MON COEUR J'EMPORTERAI (AND I’LL KEEP IN MY HEART ) directed by Sung-A YOON
FORBACH directed by Claire BURGER
GATA directed by Diana MKRTCHYAN
GESTERN IN EDEN (THE OTHER DAY IN EDEN) directed by Jan SPECKENBACH
HIMNON (ANTHEM) directed by Elad KEIDAN
ILLUSION DWELLERS directed by Robb ELLENDER
INTERIOR. SCARA DE BLOC (INTERIOR. BLOC OF FLATS HALLWAY) directed by Ciprian ALEXANDRESCU
KESTOMERKITSIJÄT (ROADMARKERS) directed by Juho KUOSMANEN
NAUS directed by Lukás GLASER
O SOM E O RESTO (SOUND AND THE REST) directed by André LAVAQUIAL
SHTIKA (SILENCE) directed by Hadar MORAG
STOP directed by Jae-Ok PARK
THE MAID directed by Heidi SAMAN
THIS IS A STORY ABOUT TED AND ALICE directed by Teressa TUNNEY

Short films in Competition
411-Z (411-Z) directed by Dániel ERDÉLYI
BUEN VIAJE (GOOD TRIP) directed by Javier PALLEIRO, Guillermo ROCAMORA
DE MOINS EN MOINS directed by Mélanie LAURENT
EL DESEO (THE DESIRE) directed by Marie BENITO
JERRYCAN (JERRYCAN) directed by Julius AVERY
LOVE YOU MORE (LOVE YOU MORE) directed by Sam TAYLOR-WOOD
MEGATRON (MEGATRON) directed by Marian CRISAN
MY RABIT HOPPY (MY RABIT HOPPY) directed by Anthony LUCAS
SMÁFUGLAR (2 BIRDS) directed by Rúnar RÚNARSSON

Gwyneth Paltrow in Celine

2008-05-25T11:30:00.000-07:00

Gwyneth Paltrow Chose Celine's Chocolate Cross-Banded Bustier Dress for the "Two Lovers" Photo Call at the Palais Des Festivals

23 May 2008 14:18 Africa/Lagos

Gwyneth Paltrow in Celine

LONDON, May 23/PRNewswire/ --

- With Photo

Cannes Film Festival, 20th May 2008

Gwyneth Paltrow Chose Celine's Chocolate Cross-Banded Bustier
Dress for the "Two Lovers" Photo Call at the Palais Des Festivals.

Please see image attached

Photo credit : Angeli Agency

Note to Editors:

A picture accompanying this release is available through the PA Photowire. It can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk.

Source: Celine

For further information please contact Mel or Nadine in the Press Office, +44(0)20-7297-4992 / 4993

Orikinla's Commmentary:
The fact that James Gray's B movie "Two Lovers", has been shortlisted for the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival is enough proof that being smart often prevails over Art at the Cannes.

Avon and James Bond Franchise Introduce Signature Bond Girl 007 Women's Fragrance

2008-05-25T11:11:00.000-07:00

Avon Bond Girl 007 fragrance ad featuring British actress Gemma Arterton. (PRNewsFoto/Avon Products, Inc.) NEW YORK, NY UNITED STATES 05/22/2008

23 May 2008 13:00 Africa/Lagos

Avon and James Bond Franchise Introduce Signature Bond Girl 007 Women's Fragrance

NEW YORK, May 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Avon Products, Inc. today announced a collaboration with the James Bond entertainment franchise, property of Danjaq LLC and Eon Productions, to create a new signature Bond Girl 007 women's fragrance, bringing the confident allure of cinema's sexiest icons to Avon consumers worldwide. British actress Gemma Arterton, who plays the role of Agent Fields in the upcoming Bond film, will be the face of the new fragrance. She will appear in TV and print advertising when Bond Girl 007 launches globally in October 2008 in conjunction with the worldwide release of "Quantum of Solace," the 22nd film in the Bond franchise, which is the largest and longest running movie franchise in history.

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080523/NYF002 )

"I'm thrilled to be working with two such iconic and established brands," said Gemma Arterton. "The Bond Girl 007 fragrance embodies everything a Bond Girl represents -- intelligence, sexiness and confidence."

"As part of our on-going alliance strategy, we strive to bring unique equities to Avon and James Bond provides an unparalleled partnership opportunity. The iconic Bond girls are one of the most widely known aspects of the films -- they're empowered, feminine and glamorous, so we're extremely pleased to capture that essence in our newest fragrance," said Geralyn Breig, Senior Vice President and Brand President for Avon.

Tracy Haffner, Vice President, Global Marketing added, "Our strategy in the fragrance category is to build a strong portfolio through unique and exciting partnerships. Aligning with the James Bond franchise gives us such a great platform to develop a beautiful fragrance and connect with women worldwide."

Keith Snelgrove, Sr. Vice President of Global Business Strategy at Danjaq LLC stated, "This was the perfect collaboration for two globally recognizable companies. By partnering with Avon to create a fragrance, we're able to bring a piece of the Bond Girls represented in our movies into the lives of women all over the world."

The fragrance, created by Firmenich, evokes the glamour, confidence and sensuality of the famous femmes fatale of the Bond franchise. The scent is a sexy cocktail of velvety florals, cool freshness and warm woods. It features top notes of velvety white peach and orange blossom followed by mid-notes of jasmine, calypso orchid and freesia. The drydown consists of amber, cashmere wood and patchouli. Bond Girl 007 is housed in a sleek, seductive bottle reminiscent of a woman's body. The cap is a stealthy homage to a Bond spy gadget.

The fragrance will be featured in the Avon brochure, which is distributed through over 5 million Avon Representatives around the globe, as well as on the company's website. It will be supported by print and TV advertising in Avon's top markets throughout North America, Europe and Latin America.

About EON Productions

EON Productions/Danjaq, LLC, is owned by the Broccoli family and has produced twenty one James Bond films since 1962, including CASINO ROYALE. The James Bond films, produced by Michael G. Wilson and Barbara Broccoli, make up the most successful franchise in film history and include the recent blockbuster films GoldenEye, Tomorrow Never Dies, The World is Not Enough and Die Another Day. EON Productions and Danjaq, LLC, are affiliate companies and control all worldwide merchandising of the James Bond franchise.

About Avon

Avon, the company for women, is a leading global beauty company, with $10 billion in annual revenue. As the world's largest direct seller, Avon markets to women in more than 100 countries through 5.4 million independent Avon Sales Representatives. Avon's product line includes beauty products, fashion jewelry and apparel, and features such well-recognized brand names as Avon Color, Anew, Skin-So-Soft, Advance Techniques, Avon Naturals, and Mark. Learn more about Avon and its products at www.avoncompany.com.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080523/NYF002
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
AP PhotoExpress Network: PRN2
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Avon Products, Inc.

CONTACT: Gina Dinisio of Avon Products, Inc., +1-212-282-8186

Web site: http://www.avoncompany.com/
AVON

Company News On-Call: http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/079575.html

Cannes Presents: "The Palermo Shooting"

2008-05-24T14:56:00.000-07:00

The "The Palermo Shooting" by German director Wim Wenders is tipped along with "Waltz with Bashir" by Ari Folman to win the Palme d'Or.

The following films are also favourites for the most coveted award at Cannes.

Clint Eastwood's "The Exchange",
Steven Soderbergh's "Che", and
Turkish director Nuri Bilge Ceylan's "Three Monkeys".

See the Full Report.

Learn how to say, 'Synecdoche, New York'

2008-05-24T14:52:00.000-07:00

Charlie Kaufman first film is tipped for a major award at the 2008 Cannes.

There is A God in Heaven Above Medical Science

2008-05-24T11:07:00.000-07:00

There is A God in Heaven Above Medical Science.

The Almighty God heard the supplication of my brother-in-law Augustine and saved his wife Stella when the neurosurgeons said there was nothing else they could do for her after spending over seven hours to remove the tumor in her brain. I thank God for the rhema He has given Augustine to understand the The Language of God.

I am very glad and grateful to God for His divine intervention and the perfection of the neurosurgery to save the beautiful and wonderful life of my younger sister after she was on life support for five days.

May the same awesome God bless you all who visited my Amazon aStore and ordered for the bestselling items available around the clock.

I Thank God for My Sister As She Returns Before the End of Cannes

2008-05-24T04:16:00.000-07:00

My younger sister Stella has just returned from her medical trip outside Nigeria and my eyes became wet in elated spirits. I thank God for her successful neurosurgery and safe return home to her family. God has done it again.

Stella has been away for over a month and I missed our discussions on the latest movies and musical videos in Nigeria, America and the UK. She knows more about Hollywood than most people in Nigeria and her updates on entetaimnent are beneficial to me.

The 61st Cannes Film Festival ends tomorrow Sunday May 25, 2008.
61ST CANNES SCREENINGS SCHEDULE

Screenings schedule

I thank God for my progess in the blogosphere since I introduced syndicated news videos from the leading news media in the world, such as the BBC, Reuters, AP, ABC, MTV and other top news channels and the following progress report is notable with thanks to God.

Total video plays for the First Quarter: 15, 310
Last updated: 2008-05-24 10:00:02

Advert page impressions of my blogs since February to date: 74,797

My business success blog Gateway To Success has been syndicated 158,678 times .

Madonna Co-hosts Gala auction

2008-05-24T04:07:00.000-07:00

Naomi Campbell's 38th Birthday Tears in Cannes

2008-05-23T08:37:00.000-07:00

Naomi Campbell with Christophe Rocancourt

Naomi Campbell is two years from turning 40 and seems to be depressed and looking for consolation in the wrong places. She went to Cannes and was on the red carpet with an ex-con, Christophe Rocancourt. She celebrated her 38th birthday with her friends, then she went to P Diddy's VIP party aboard his luxury yacht and left in tears.
You can click here to watch the video of how Naomi Campbell's 38th birthday ended in tears at P Diddy's party.

Forbidden Love with a Married Man: E-mail Diaries

2008-05-23T06:54:00.000-07:00

Forbidden Love with a Married Man; E-mail Diaries describes one couple's journey as they struggle with sexual identity and how it conflicts with right and wrong. More than 4 million women are currently or have been married to either a gay or bisexual man. Often the gay spouse feels forced by societal and family pressures into marriage, suppressing his true feelings in order to be socially accepted by appearing "straight." However, in secret these men cheat on their wives by conducting affairs with members of the same sex. This day-by-day memoir diary includes actual daily e-mails and correspondence between the author, Dennis Schleicher, and his 14-year married boyfriend. Will his boyfriend leave his wife and confess to her his love and desire to live with another man, or will he be trapped in his own insecurities and not move to a side of life he has kept hidden all of these years, risking the loss of his potential "soulmate"? Every married and single woman and male and/or those engaged in a relationship will learn the truth about two loving people who are highly challenged to reveal their innermost souls in order to "survive."

Gingrich Book Days of Infamy Makes NY Times Bestseller List

2008-05-23T06:13:00.000-07:00

DAYS OF INFAMY

23 May 2008 13:41 Africa/Lagos

Gingrich Book Days of Infamy Makes NY Times Bestseller List

Second Bestseller for Gingrich in 2008

WASHINGTON, May 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Former House Speaker Newt Gingrich latest book, Days of Infamy, written with historian William Forstchen, debuted at #11 on the New York Times Fiction Bestseller list the week of May 18, 2008. This comes on the heels of the success of Gingrich's Non-Fiction work, Real Change: From the World that Fails to the World that Works, which spent 12 weeks on the NY Times Non-Fiction Bestseller list.

Gingrich joins the ranks of only a handful of authors who made the fiction and non-fiction list in the same year. Days of Infamy is Gingrich's 16th book and 10th NY Times bestseller, which include Contract with America, To Renew America, 1945, Lessons Learned the Hard Way: A Personal Report, Gettysburg, Never Call Retreat, Winning the Future: A 21st Century Contract with America, Pearl Harbor: A Novel of December the 8th, and Real Change: From the World that Fails to the World that Works.

Source: Gingrich Communications

CONTACT: Rick Tyler, Spokesperson, Former Speaker Newt Gingrich,
+1-540-338-1250, ricktyler@newt.org

Read Newt Gingrich's feature on Days of Infamy: Active History and the Teaching of History

Buy Top Bestsellers

Wabi-sabi: 侘寂)

2008-05-23T03:24:00.000-07:00

Dear Helen Chang,

Imagine how one can have an intelligent discussion on the aesthetics and the ethics of life with someone who does not know the difference between Wassily Kandinsky and Jerry Buahri.

Only a primitive society lacks the simple knowledge of art appreciation. So, I do see them as really primitive homo sapiens even though they can speak some good English and aha ah, they can even blog! But yet they are clueless about the essence of human existence, except the daily wake up, eat and go to work and social and personal gossip of their temporal lives of perishable acquisitions and possessions.

Let me give them a short list for their art education, because if we do not educate them, how can they appreciate the gems of our precious lives.

Ada Udechukwu, Afam Okwudili, Alex Nwokolo, Ato Arinze, Ben Enwonwu, Ben Osawe, Bisi Fakeye, Bruce Onobrakpeya, Chika Idu, Chinwe Uwatse, Damola Adepoju, David H Dale, Dubem Osaji, Edosa Ogiugo, George Edozie, El Anatsui, Elizabeth Izah, Emmanuel Ekpeni, Emmanuel Mbanefo, Erhabor Emokpae, Frank Anammah, Gabriel Emengo, Ini Brown, Jerry Buhari, Jimoh Buraimoh, Joe Amenechi, Kelechi Amadi, Obi Kofi Asemnyinah, Kolade Oshinowo, Krydz Ikwuemesi, Kunle Adeyemi, Chief Muraina Oyelami, Ndidi Dike, Obiora Obieze, Obiora Udechukwu, Okpu Eze, Ola Balogun, Prof. Uche Okeke, Rufus Ogundele, Sam Ovraiti, Sussane Wenger, Tayo Adenaike, Tola Wewe,Twin Seven Seven, Uche Edochie, Veronica Otigbo-Ekpei and Zinno Orara.

Of course, I have excluded Michael Chima from the list, lest the naive and ignorant hordes accuse me of bragging.

Let me appreciate the gems of the Nigerian genius.
How many of them hip-hopping all over the place can appreciate the intellectual depth of Ayo Bankole, Akin Euba, Funsho Ogundipe, Fela Sowande, Joshua Uzoigwe, Sam Akpabot and the other masters of Nigerian music.

Oh poor Morning Glory.
Who will tell your story?

Shedding Some Light on Reading Comfort

2008-05-22T15:43:00.001-07:00

22 May 2008 10:07 Africa/Lagos

Shedding Some Light on Reading Comfort

NEW YORK, May 22 /PRNewswire/ -- MS -- Reading is an activity that people of all ages enjoy, and something that is as much a part of daily life as eating or sleeping. The trouble is, not all of your reading is done during the day or when light is optimal. Many times busy schedules push leisure or required reading into the evening or late-night hours, when leaving a bright overhead light on can disturb others. However, reading in poor lighting can strain eyes and prove bothersome.

NEWSWIRE PERISCOPE LED BOOK LIGHT IN A BOOKCOVER PERISCOPE LED BOOK LIGHT IN A BOOKCOVERPeriscope LED Booklight in a Bookcover. (PRNewsFoto/Periscope LED Book Light in a Bookcover) NEW YORK, NY UNITED STATES 05/21/2008

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080522/NYFNSY07 )

A Bright Idea for Readers

Up until now, those who frequently enjoyed a book in bed or in dimly lit situations, such as on a bus or airplane, had to use a little ingenuity to illuminate their reading matter. These options were rarely convenient. But the Periscope(R) LED Book Light in a Bookcover ends the frustration of reading in low-light situations.

The patented Periscope Book Light in a Bookcover eliminates all cords, clips and clutter and lets you read what you want where you want in all types of low-light reading environments -- all while protecting your privacy. The handy lighting system is housed within a slip-on bookcover (there are separate covers for hardcover and mass market paperback books). Simply slip your book into the cover and pull up the telescoping light, which automatically turns it on. The adjustable twin, wide-angle LED light can be pivoted to focus just where you need it for maximum reading comfort. Simply retract the lighting arm back into the book cover spine to turn off the light and stow it away. The light is powered by three AA batteries that deliver over 40 hours of continuous light, so there are no cords or plugs to worry about.

The covers also come with an attached book mark and handy pockets, so you'll never lose your place while reading and can store notes, tickets, or other small items as well. All of these features are housed in one convenient package that is just as portable as your favorite book.

Tips for Reading in Comfort

The makers of Periscope Book Light in a Bookcover suggest these tips for additional comfort while reading.

-- Reading in low light will not severely damage the eyes, but it can
lead to eye strain. So use adequate lighting whenever possible. Eye
strain can produce symptoms, such as headaches, aching eyeballs, fuzzy
vision, and drooping eyelids.
-- If you're straining to see the print in books it may be time for an
eye examination. An eye doctor may determine you need reading glasses
or check your current prescription.
-- At home, set aside a place that is a reading nook or serene sanctuary
for reading.

To learn more about Periscope products, visit www.periscopelight.com. The book lights are readily available for paperback and hardcover books at Barnes and Noble retailers and online at www.barnesandnoble.com.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080522/NYFNSY07
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com
Source: Periscope LED Book Light in a Bookcover

CONTACT: Metro Editorial Services for Periscope LED Book Light in a
Bookcover, +1-800-223-1600

Web site: Periscope LED Book Light
Barnes and Noble

BOOK OF THE WEEK

SISTER MINE

An Inspiring Summer Read: Biography of Judy Taylor - the Woman Who Could Not Eat

2008-05-22T13:30:00.000-07:00

"Lifeliner: The Judy Taylor Story", written by London-born author Shireen Jeejeebhoy, tells the true story of the first person in the world to live decades without eating any food, surviving solely on Total Parenteral Nutrition, a form of artificial feeding that Judy helped to pioneer. Winner of Best Biography by Reader Views, "Lifeliner" is written for the lay audience and brings Judy's brand of inspiration to life for those facing crises of their own today.

22 May 2008 21:00 Africa/Lagos

An Inspiring Summer Read: Biography of Judy Taylor - the Woman Who Could Not Eat

TORONTO, May 22/PRNewswire/ --

- With Photo

With long summer days ahead and the delights of a good book to be enjoyed, readers around the world are picking up "Lifeliner: The Judy Taylor Story," the debut book from London-born author Shireen Jeejeebhoy.

Author Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080331/298826

For Judy, summer meant books and barbecues, a time to invite her doctors and fellow patients to her home on the lake, a time for hot dogs and salads, cookies and laughter. Judy was not only the Canadian mother who made medical history as the first person to live decades on intravenous feeding without eating any food; she was also the woman who shared her enthusiasm for life with everyone around her.

Judy's doctor was the author's father, Dr Khursheed Jeejeebhoy; his groundbreaking research on nutrition and her courage made TPN (Total Parenteral Nutrition) a reality, allowing patients with bowel disease, cancer, or AIDS to live longer, fulfilled lives. With thousands and thousands facing artificial feeding issues, Judy's story has widespread medical interest. A European study showed that cancer was the primary reason patients in the United Kingdom went on TPN.

But "Lifeliner" is also winning accolades in the US for its powerful inspirational story telling: Editor's Choice, Publisher's Choice, Best Biography in the Reader Views Reviewers Choice Award.

- "Shireen Jeejeebhoy has written an extraordinary account of Judy
Taylor and her fight for life." Carol Hoyer, Ph.D. Family Psychology

- "Shireen's pen has all the force of a great storyteller and the
artistic skills of reviving a past scene in its most original form."
Ernest Dempsey, Reviewer and Author

"When they sent Judy home on TPN in the summer, no one knew what her quality of life would be like," Shireen says. "As far as Judy was concerned, she had been given a second chance and she was running with it." Shireen wanted to bring that kind of inspiration to those facing crises of their own.

"Lifeliner," available on Amazon.co.uk, is a book written for the lay audience. Read more, including video, at http://jeejeebhoy.ca/lifeliner.

About the Author

Shireen Jeejeebhoy resides in Toronto, Canada. She holds a B.Sc. in psychology from the University of Toronto and is an accomplished writer.

Lifeliner: The Judy Taylor Story
by Shireen Jeejeebhoy
iUniverse
October 2007 / 186 pages
ISBN: 978-0-595-44544-8 Trade Paper US$16.95
http://jeejeebhoy.ca

Note to Editors:

A picture/s accompanying this release is available through the PA Photowire. It can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk.

Source: Shireen Jeejeebhoy

Shireen Jeejeebhoy can be reached at +1-416-838-8297

Playboy Foundation Announces New $25,000 Freedom of Expression Award

2008-05-22T12:15:00.000-07:00

22 May 2008 13:00 Africa/Lagos

Playboy Foundation Announces New $25,000 Freedom of Expression Award

Calls for nominations for Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Awards

CHICAGO, May 22 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Building on five decades of defending free speech and American civil liberties, the Playboy Foundation today announced the creation of the new Freedom of Expression Award -- a $25,000 seed grant to fund the work of a noteworthy advocate for the First Amendment.

"The Playboy Foundation's new Freedom of Expression Award is designed to support the work of an exceptional person dedicated to protecting the First Amendment rights of all Americans," said Christie Hefner, Chairman and CEO of Playboy Enterprises Inc. "This new award is a great addition to the Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Awards, and will help to focus public attention on the continuing threats to our civil liberties."

The $25,000 Freedom of Expression Award will help to support the work of an individual whose record of accomplishments indicates a promising future as an effective advocate for the First Amendment. Preference will be given to emerging leaders for whom the cash grant will make a significant difference in their ability to pursue the goal of protecting and promoting free speech in all its forms.

Christie Hefner created the Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Awards in 1979 to honor individuals who have made significant contributions in the vital effort to protect and enhance First Amendment rights for Americans.

Over the last three decades, more than 125 valiant advocates for First Amendment freedoms -- from lawyers and journalists to librarians, filmmakers and high school students -- have been recognized with the Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Award. Historically, award winners have worked in journalism, education, book publishing, arts, entertainment, government and law.
In addition to creating the new Freedom of Expression Award this year, the Playboy Foundation is doubling the value of the cash award for the original Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Awards to $10,000. The Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Award winners will be honored at a ceremony to be held at the Playboy Mansion in Los Angeles.

The Playboy Foundation will accept nominations for the 2008 Hugh M. Hefner First Amendment Awards, including the Freedom of Expression Award, through July 4. For more information, or to submit a nomination, please contact the Playboy Foundation at 312-373-2435 or go to http://www.playboyenterprises.com/foundation.

The Playboy Foundation supports local and national nonprofit organizations that protect the rights of the individual in a free society. Since its inception in 1965, the Foundation has awarded nearly $20 million in grants and in-kind contributions to organizations concerned with First Amendment freedoms, civil liberties and social justice.

Source: The Playboy Foundation

CONTACT: Matthew Pakula, Director of The Playboy Foundation,+1-312-373-2435
Web site: http://www.playboyenterprises.com/foundation