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“Is that a scar on your forehead?’ she asked him.
“No one’s asked me about that for a long time.”
She ran her index finger along the small groove on his third eye space.
“My sister opened the bathroom door into my face when I was a kid. It’s crazy how much the forehead bleeds.”
She told him a story about a little girl falling off the monkey bars at the playground and smacking her head on the equipment. You could see clear through to the bone where she’d been cut.
“We don’t have to have sex,” she said. Earlier he’d texted about not feeling well. They were lying on the bed because that was the only furniture in her tiny hotel room. There wasn’t even a bathroom, just a sink in the corner. It was steps from the ocean, that’s why she stayed there, to rise and set with the sun over the Pacific.
He looked over at her. Then he took her index finger into his mouth. He communicated best through action.
“I’ve talked to my therapist about chemical castration,” he told her as he was pulling his boxers back on.
“I just feel like if I took sexual desire out of the equation, it would save me so much anxiety and heartache.”
She raised an eyebrow at him. She didn’t think there had been any heartache between the two of them.
“You’re nearly fifty,” she told him, “don’t you think sexual desire will taper off at some point?”
“All the more reason to go for it,” he said, patting her leg.
“Why don’t you stay over?”
“You know how I feel about that.”
“Right,” she said, turning over onto her belly.
“Your ass though. Tough to leave it.”
He straddled her and placed his hands around the outside of her hips, burying his face into her backside. Some men were really fucked up.
“Will I see you again before I leave?” she asked him.
“Yeah, for sure. I think I have time after volleyball this weekend.”
“You know where to find me.”
“I made some cookies,” he said, opening up his backpack. “Chocolate chip. Just in case you get hungry.”
He placed them on the nightstand and kissed her.
He was the first guy to go down on her. She was a freshman in college. Not a virgin, but she might as well have been. She’d had sex with her high school boyfriend, but only to avoid going off to school without having done so. They’d only tried it once and it was a fumbling, uncomfortable affair. Noah was experienced. He knew what he wanted and how to get it. She couldn’t remember their first kiss all those years ago, but she did remember him making his way down the front on her body and the cool touch of his tongue ring on her delicates.
She found him again twenty years later. Kismet, you could say. She was still licking the wounds from her divorce. Her husband left her for a younger woman, someone he got involved with working on an opera. Noah was separated too, but that was all she got of the story. He was guarded. Or he was guarding her.
In two years, he’d only invited her over to his place once. It was a huge, dark Craftsman abutting the El Salvador community corridor in central LA. He gave her the keys, said he would meet her there after work. She was taking the red-eye home and needed somewhere to hang after checking out of her hotel. There were black and white photos of his ex on the wall in the guest room. Intimate scenes of a lazy morning. His ex was in bedclothes, nuzzling the dog. Moving on was not easy for some.
She decided, after wandering through the house, that it would be best to spend the afternoon outside. It was windy, but warm. He came out with beers for them around four-thirty. She was reading a book on the hammock.
“We bought the place ten years ago. The market was super soft then,” he was looking around the backyard.
“Would you ever sell it?”
It seemed crazy to her that he lived in that rambling space alone.
“Only to cash out completely and move to Thailand.”
She shook her head at him. This wasn’t the first she’d heard of his escapist fantasy. She guessed it was possible for a childless man in middle age to disappear, but she still thought it was ridiculous.
He pointed to a fence at the back of the lot. “That’s my only issue with this place.”
Every few months the Salvadorans behind him would have a celebration. They’d blast mariachi music from morning to night – so loud it made the window panes rattle. Once, he’d gotten fed up. A friend was storing an amplifier in the dining room, a space he’d never used after his ex moved out. He brought the amp outside and faced it towards the Salvadorans. Then, he plugged in his phone and turned on a Slipknot playlist, cranking it as loud as possible. She admired his creativity.
The morning after he left her with cookies on the nightstand, she woke at five with a slick of sweat between her breasts. She was still on east coast time. There had also been a dream, one she willed herself to wake from. She tried to suss it out as she came into full consciousness. There was a fire, a phone call, a car with manual transmission. She was in the driveway of his Craftsman. There was the knowledge of something dark and tragic. Then, a quick flash of him hanging from a belt in a door frame.
She hated these nightmares. They always felt real. She wasn’t standing outside of herself observing, as it sometimes is in dreamscapes. She used to have these dreams a lot in the years before her marriage ended. There was one that recurred, usually the first or second night after her ex had left town to go on tour. In the dream, he comes home from work to tell her that he’s fallen in love with a musician in the orchestra and that he’s leaving her. For years it was just a bad dream, until it became reality.
She got up and turned on the light. She unrolled her yoga mat and stretched for a while, aimlessly, more to kill time than to actually practice. She spent a half hour on her back twisting, opening the hips, moving her legs around at different angles. When it got late enough, she went to shower him off of her.
Venice was waking with a hangover. Some people were still out from partying the night before, ambling about, unsteady. There were empties strewn around. Takeout containers with half-eaten sandwiches and soggy fries littered the parking lot by the beach. She walked to the shoreline and perched on her heels for few minutes, listening to the waves roll in. She loved the ocean for its vastness. She loved knowing that she was at the edge of something, the end of something.
A few months earlier, she was having brunch with Noah somewhere south of the city. Crenshaw, maybe? He’d driven her out to the Watts Towers. They walked around the sculptures and he told her about the neighborhood. He’d been teaching high school there for quite some time. He drove her through a housing project and showed her the line between gang territories.
She ordered eggs to eat but kept reaching across the table for bites of his pancakes.
“Have you always been anxious?” she asked him. It was outside of her wheelhouse.
“I think so,” he adjusted the rim of his baseball cap. He liked to have his head covered. Even when they had sex, he wore a knit shirt sleeve around his crown.
“When I was a kid, maybe seven or eight, we had to do this project…build a kite. I was always into art, so I put a lot of time into it. My kite was a butterfly. I did a really good job with the symmetry and the colors – I was happy with it. But then the night before we had to show them to the whole class, I panicked. I woke in the middle of the night freaking out, terrified that my kite was too girly. I went to my mom and shook her awake, telling her we had to go to school and fix it. I must have really made a scene because she drove me there an hour early so I could change my kite. I think it started then.”
She looked at him for a long time.
“That’s your story,” she finally said.
“That’s your story. I think we all have a little anecdote that we use to define ourselves. That’s yours.”
“Interesting. I guess so.”
“I’m not telling you mine,” she said, grinning.
She didn’t hear from him again that weekend in Venice and for once she knew better than to reach out. It was her last night in town for a while so she decided to take herself out to dinner. She put on a backless romper and headed to a Japanese place on Abbot Kinney. There was one seat left at the bar.
She started to get into it with the bartender. He was very cute. She guessed him to be about ten years younger than her. He tried to talk her into a third glass of wine, but she didn’t want to get sloppy. When she signed the bill, she wrote her name and phone number next to the total.
She went back to the hotel and took a precautionary shower. Then, she waited. He texted her that he would come by after work, that was usually midnight, but he’d be in touch sooner. There wasn’t much to do in the hotel room, and she was tired after all the food and wine. She kept checking her phone, just in case she’d missed something. She watched the quarter hours pass by. Finally, around eleven, she gave up. She turned her phone off and went to sleep.
She woke feeling sheepish. Housekeepers were in the hallway speaking Spanish to each other. She’d forgotten to take off her makeup, and it had settled into the creases around her eyes. She wanted a good story to take home with her, about a one-night stand with a sexy young bartender. There was still a chocolate chip cookie on the nightstand. She took a couple of bites of it, letting the crumbs fall onto the hotel bedspread. She would be off to New York in a few hours. She left her suitcase at the front desk and walked out to the ocean one more time. The marine layer was slowly pulling off of the coast. She looked north to the Santa Monica pier, where Noah was most likely spiking volleyballs. Maybe she should stop trying to orchestrate fate.
She heard about it on social media. Someone created a page and she saw a link to it through a friend of a friend. At that point, a couple of months had passed with no word from him. The incident happened in the middle of the night. The Salvadorans were partying. Apparently, he’d mistaken the sound for firecrackers. There wasn’t anything sinister about it. Just one drunk asshole trying to pick off beer bottles. Noah went out into the yard to investigate. A bullet hit him square in the gut. The gardener found him in the morning when he climbed up onto the roof to trim the bougainvillea.

domain: literature


Manny Pacquiao announced a couple of days ago that he’ll be shifting media partners favoring ABS-CBN to air starting with upcoming Manny “Pacman” Paquiao Vs. Ricky Hatton, May 2nd match up. But, Manny is still under contract with Solar Sports regarding TV rights until 2011 that pave the way for a conflict.
Manny has reasoned that it was his personal decision and that no one has influenced him in anyway. Part of this was his previous sentiments against Solar Sports not paying him in full and at times delayed. Solar Sports took action by making a confrontation with Manny’s MP Promotions in LA.
After much talk between the two parties, Manny Pacquiao’s camp formally made a public apology due to public’s confusion and announced that the contract between MP Promotions and Solar Sports as his media partner is completely valid and binding until 2011. Therefore, the upcoming fight between Pacquiao and Hatton will still be aired by Solar Sports and in partnership, also with GMA Network.
Manny Pacquiao also want the public to know that he’s right now focusing his efforts practicing and preparing for his fight. He continually asks for everyone’s support and prayers.
Thanks to Glenn’s Blog for the last pic!


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Some while back an old –and older- friend recalled one of the first sermons I preached decades ago when I was twenty-two years old. In the message I apparently said some derogatory things about being nice. She laughingly remarked, “Lots of people walked away from church that day asking, ‘Really, what’s so wrong with being nice?’”
In turn, I laughed and confessed, “Yes, that sounds like me…still.”
Not long ago I posted on Facebook something to the effect that the world doesn’t need more people who are nice; it needs more people who are kind. A spiritually sensitive friend of mine responded, “I have found that people who are nice tend to be kind.” And he is partly right. People who are nice are indeed frequently kind. But most often their kindness is of a certain sort.
And that is the problem.
A nice person isn’t rude and impolite. He or she cares about what other people think and avoids doing things that would disrupt harmonious relationships. It is extremely important to nice people to be socially acceptable. A nice person is glad to be helpful and bring a smile to other people’s faces. When kindness is a sort appreciated by his or her peer group, the nice person doesn’t hesitate to be kind.
And all of these things are commendable. After all, there is no virtue in being a jerk.
However, because it is so important to the nice person to be accepted, he or she is deferential to those in authority and readily complies with social norms, even unjust ones. Indeed, nice people often don’t have an acute sensitivity to the injustices that would cast doubt on conventional standards. So the kindness of a nice person stays close to home, within the realm of acceptability.
Niceness has an ugly underbelly. A recent study suggests “people with more agreeable, conscientious personalities are more likely to make harmful choices.” Nice people are cooperative and don’t cause trouble. Such characteristics leaves them ill-equipped to go against the grain when their peer group discriminates against a minority or when their company has practices that seriously damages the environment or when their nation engages in aggression or supports oppressive forces elsewhere in the name of national interests.
The above referenced study supports what was found decades ago by Stanley Milgram in his well-known experiments described in his book Obedience to Authority. Essentially he discovered that normal, apparently decent people who simply want to be cooperative can be made to harm others when instructed to do so by someone perceived to be an authority. Most people want to please those in power and will act in a way detrimental to strangers in order to avoid displeasing someone in charge. The majority trusts in the legitimacy and expertise of those in authority and consequently they willingly follow.
A nice person might occasionally feel uncomfortable with injustice. More often, he or she will give his or her peer group or place of employment or nation a very generous benefit of the doubt and assume they are in the right, even when they are not. The one thing the nice person is highly unlikely to do is risk alienating and jeopardizing the goodwill of others. The nice person will not resist, refuse or protest against the prevailing practices and views.
Indiscriminate kindness that gives no thought of the opinion of others is beyond the inclinations of the nice person. In fact since nice people highly value the acceptance of peers, and especially those in authority, they are more likely to support destructive conventions and be led to perform acts harmful to others. On the other hand, the study found “people with more contrarian, less agreeable personalities were more likely to refuse to hurt other people when told to do so.”
Perhaps we could speak of this as the virtue of crankiness. Moral courage is more likely to be found in nonconformists who have a history of resisting the pressure of the dominant society. Those who are willing to defy authority and majority opinions and risk their popularity for the sake of the bullied, beleaguered or oppressed are the genuinely kind and compassionate people, not those who are nice.
In her extensive study of the small minority of Christians who were rescuers of the Jews, Nechama Tec found that they tended not to be socially well-adjusted but they were in some fashion marginalized, “being less affected by the community’s expectations and controls.” The rescuers had little need for “the support and approval of others.” She found “one of their central values involved a long-standing commitment to protect the needy.” To put it another way, the rescuers were not particularly nice but they were deeply kind to the vulnerable.
All this does not add up to suggesting rude and inconsiderate people are automatically the ethical superiors to those who get along well with others. Rather it means that those who refuse to adjust to injustice and well-established discriminatory practices will inevitably irritate and annoy the accommodating majority. These people may not be as easy to get along with because they will not be passive and well-adjusted to a misshapen world. And they will care a whole lot less about the irritation they cause or disapproval they experience than they do about the needy people they seek to help. These are the kind of people Jesus calls us to be.

domain: psychology


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Welcome to our Monday weekly Nigerian entertainment news round up where we bring you reports on sizzling gists around entertainment and Nollywood; music, film and television.
This week we have rounded up news making waves from what’s new in talent show hunts to what Nollywood “bad boy” Jim Iyke is currently working on. So dig in and read on….It’s a great way to kick start your week.
Famous TV Talent Show Arrives Nigeria
It is offering the biggest prize-money ever in a Nigerian based talent hunt show. The winner of “The X-Factor Nigerian’ is slated to go home with a price money of £1, 000, 000. 00(One Million British Pounds Sterling).
X-Factor Nigeria is a reality TV program designed to discover new talents in the Nigeria entertainment industry that possesses that special and extra x-factor in their acts or talents.
The production is made possible by International Pageants and Films Limited, one of Nigeria’s leading entertainment and intellectual property asset company.
Toni Payne, 9nice’s Ex Wife Launches New Reality TV Series Set To Debut Today!
Titled ‘My ChamPayne Life’ Ms Payne’s show will mirror the life of an illustrious woman who has worked so hard to build a career.
When asked about the reality show she said, ‘As a public Relations Executive, socialist, Human Rights Activist, Role Model, on line Radio owner and above all a mother. My life is pretty complicated to meet the everyday challenge. Building a brand that is in demand is never easy; a broken down load of work to get to the peak of the business. Now I am a force to reckon with’.
Toni who has once managed artistes like rapper Olamide and pop singer Zara and still plies the trade with upcoming singer Adol and newbie Dencia is also involved in other projects such as her online radio and entertainment consultancy.
From her words, the show is likely to feature her son Zion ‘Above all as a mother…’
Pundits say ‘My Champayne Life’ could be similar to Kimora Lee Simmons’ ’Life in the Fab Lane‘. Kimora Lee just like Toni Payne was involved in a famed separation with ex-hubby Russell Simmons, the owner of popular record label Def Jam.
Producers say ‘My ChamPayne Life’ will air on television stations across the country and ‘is coming soon to MNET, UK and USA’.
Actor Enebeli Elebuwa is Battling For His Life
For ailing veteran actor, EnebeliElebuwa, all hope is not lost as there are indications that he would bounce back to life again.
He has been battling stroke, an illness that has left him bedridden and incapacitated for more than six months now.
In a brief telephone chat with a reporter, the ailing actor muted “I’m battling for my life. I don’t want to make my illness a public issue any more. I’m in a hospital, in Surulere area of Lagos.”
Enebeli Elebuwa & Segun Arinze
Earlier this week, reports had it that the actor’s health is getting worse by the day as he urgently needs prayers and support from all and sundry to stay alive. But speaking with HVP, Enebeli sounded optimistic and very hopeful that he would bounce back to life despite the odds. Though his voice was weak and inaudible on phone.
Enebeliwas first hospitalized at St Luke’s Hospital, Yaba, before he was later moved to St Tropez Hospital, Surulere, Lagos, where he’s currently receiving treatment. For a long time, nothing concrete has been heard about Enebeli’s health till now.
Not long ago, it was rumoured that the Delta State born actor was taken to a herbal home by his family to seek alternative solution, after his condition failed to improve significantly.
Outgoing National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria(AGN), SegunArinze during his visits to the ailing Elebuwa in the hospital, was quoted as saying that “I’m seriously concerned about current state of the thespian’s health.’
Arinze then mobilized his colleagues in the A-list cadre to raise funds for proper treatment and welfare of the actor.
According to news gathered that the Enebeli’s sickness has created more tension and fear among Nollywood practitioners, considering the rate at which prominent members of the industry have died in the last one year.
Famous Club Owner, Suzy Q Finally Laid To Rest
The remains of murdered night club owner Suzy Yusuf popularly known as Suzy Q, has finally been laid to rest.
She was buried on Friday, March 23, 2012 at Victoria Garden Cemetery, Lekki Expressway.
The burial which followed after a wake keep the previous day, had few t friends and family in attendance. Celebrities who wined and dined with the late club owner while alive, were conspicuously absent when her remains was committed to mother earth.
Reverend Fregene who presided over the burial service, admonished all present to remember that death is inevitable, hence the need to live worthy lives.
Susan was brutally stabbed to death by a lover on Friday, February 10 this year. And till her death, she was the owner of SQ Lounge situated on the Island. At the moment, the police is still trying to uncover who is behind her death as her original killer also died on the same day while trying to escape the scene of the murder.
However, singer, D’Prince who had a failed business deal with the late Suzy, was one of the people arrested for questioning over the murder case.
Karen Igho Pulls A Gathering Of BBA Amplified Edition
Big Brother Africa 2011 famous winner and popular entertainment personality, Karen Igho brings it on as she pulls a gathering of BBA Amplified edition Housemates to Nigeria in what could best be described as the ‘Baddest’ intercontinental celebrity and fans studded meet party of the decade themed; ‘Karen Igho Amplified!’.
Karen who would be a year older on Friday, April 6, 2012 will host family, friends, fans, associates and stakeholders from the entertainment industry to a drama-thrilled celebration experience on Friday, April 6, 2012 at Scintilla; Victoria Island, Lagos.
The celebration feature former BBA Amplified housemates such as Wendall Parson, (Karen’s co-winner from Zimbabwe), Luclay ‘Mr. Otono (S/Africa), Confidence (Ghana), WezaSolange (Angola), Lomwe (Malawi), Millicent Bonake (Kenya) MumbaMwakwa (Zambia), Bernadina Buys (Namibia) and their country counterparts from the BBA in active participation.
Notable highlights of the weekend long birthday celebration include;
A media tour with the BBA Amplified housemates and extensive charity visits to the SOS orphanage village at Isolo, Lagos State. Nigeria; Fashion show/debut of Karen’s Urban Street-wear line tagged ‘Karenified’
Auctions of some of Karen’s ‘winning & lucky charm’ outfits including the outfit she wore the day she was announced winner on BBA, the blue ‘luck’ dress she wore on all the eviction moments on BBA Amplified edition – this was the same outfit she wore to the Future Awards early in 2011 before featuring on the BBA show, Karen’s black Ed Hardy track suit, which she wore to BBA’s audition screening in Maryland, Lagos and other hot ‘raunchy’ dresses she wore during the TGIF parties thrown on Big Brother.
Proceeds generated through the auction and sales of Karen’s urban street-wear (T-shirts & Tank tops) will go to fund a charity cause as Karen wants to use the birthday celebration to identify with good causes and the less privileged.
Karen is also expected to officially reveal some details on her planned reality TV serial during the celebration, as she continues to bring ‘more dramatic’ moments to her fans and admirers around the world.
The Godfather of the day at the celebration is Chief Comrade Ateke Tom. We got top ‘gist’ going round that the fans/celebs studded party could spring up dramatic surprises and stunts from former BBA housemates as Lomwe is set to perform hit tracks from off his soon-to-be-released album-’Double Wowza’.
D’banj Joins Asa & Nneka On The Exclusive VEVO Website With Release Of Oliver Twist Video
As D’Banj continues to steer his ship away from the shores that bound his to his former Mo’Hits records partner, Don Jazzy, laurels continue to come his way.
The latest addition to his collection is his recent induction into the VEVO website.
His inclusion into the exclusive club was made possible with the release of video of his latest single ‘ Oliver Twist’. The video was uploaded on to the website on March 19.
VEVO is an international music video website, and D’banj will be the third Nigerian to have his music uploaded on this website after the likes of Asa and Nneka.
From findings, VEVO only accepts and uploads music from internationally acclaimed record labels such as Universal Music Group, Sony Music Entertainment and EMI. Once a video is uploaded on this very web, Google and VEVO both have the honour of sharing the advertising revenue.
Born Oladapo Daniel Oyebanjo, D’banj also known as the Kokomaster, released his debut album “No long thing in 2005, revolutionizing the Nigerian music scene, his follow up albums include Rundown/Funk you up in 2006 and “The Entertainer” in 2008. His 2010 singles “Mr Endowed” and “Scapegoat” are on every music playlist across the continent of Africa.
His most recent work, Oliver Twist is still hot in the air thus, fetching him a worthy space on VEVO.
Portia Yamahan Is Producing Her First Sitcom Titled ‘You And I’
Matinee ran into popular actress, Portia Yamahan who talked about what she is doing at the moment. It would be recalled that Portia Yamahan featured in the latest Super Story series titled, ‘Sister, sister’. She had this to say to Matinee. Enjoy!
‘Well, I am on location shooting. I am producing my first sitcom titled ‘You and I’. We have been on set for over 21days already! It is a sitcom centred on everyday people; some of them are our neighbours, colleagues and our daily lifestyles.
Believe me when I say I have the best cast and crew put together. It is entertaining and educative from the stables of Digital Interactive Media (DIM), producers of ‘The Next Movie Star, Supermom, D8, Excite on TV, and Groove on TV.
Some of the cast on set are Kingsley Ogboso, Daniel Christopher, Tamara Eteimo, Wisdom Macaulay and the last, but not the least is my humble self, Portia Yahaman, acting as Dora and the producer of the Sitcoms’.
20 Years Of Nollywood And Producers Seek Five Billion Naira To Rebrand The Industry
As the Nigeria home video industry otherwise known as Nollywood hits 20 years, movie producers in the country are seeking a five billion Naira financial war chest to reposition the industry.
If repackaged, Nollywood, the third biggest movie industry in the world after Hollywood (USA) and Bollywood (India), could be a big revenue earner for the government, practitioners and other stakeholders, said Mr Zik Zulu Okafor, president, Association of Movie Producers, Nigeria (AMP).
Zik Zulu Okafor
Okafor says currently some foreigners believe they could earn one million dollars per day watching Nollywood. He sought the support of all stakeholders including the media to reposition the industry.
“By September 2012, Nollywood will be 20 years old. We have to celebrate it. At 20, Nollywood must be able to arrest the attention of the world. That is why we coming with a programme. We call it: ‘Nollywood: two billion eyes on Nigeria.’ We must be able to put down N5 billion to repackage Nollywood, which currently employs two million people in Nigeria,” he said.
According to Okafor, whose team was elected in December 2011, “our vision is to do things right, set up revenue earners like galleria so that Nollywood people will earn a living. We are already telling the story of the mystery called Nollywood abroad and some foreigners believe they can earn $1 million a day watching Nollywood. So, they are interested.
With Okafor during the visit were LilianUchenna, Amah-Aluko (vice president), Mike Nliam (treasurer), Dan-Chris Ebie (publicity secretary) and Neville Ossai.
Receiving the team, Editor of Vanguard, Mr. MidenoBayagbon, who led other senior editorial staff, assured the AMP of fruitful partnership in its efforts to repackage Nollywood.
Jim Iyke Returns To CameroonTo Shoot His Own Movie “Blood and Wine”
A month after Nollywood bad boy actor Jim Iyke was injured by his Cameroonian female fans while on a movie set, the actor has returned to that country again and this time, he is there to shoot his own movie.
We gathered that work on the flick titled “Blood and Wine”commenced in earnest few days ago, in Duala.
Actress UcheJombo is starring alongside Jim Iyke in the movie.
Speaking on the movie, Jim said “the shooting will be in Limbe, Buea, and Douala. It’s a romantic thriller from the stable of my production company called Untamed Production. I came with a crew of six from Naija and the rest of the cast and crew will be Cameroonians.”
Chidi Mokeme Quitting Bachelorhood?
If the rumour making the rounds is anything to go by, then, actor Chidi Mokeme who recently turned 40, will soon begin his journey into matrimony.
Chidi is said to have finally picked April 27, for his wedding.
Meanwhile, this becomes necessary just as fans and foes have not stopped urging the handsome actor to take a bold step to change his status. The actor has romantically been linked with several ladies within and outside Nollywood.
For some time now, expectations have been very high, as admirers of the talented actor can’t wait to see their screen idol walk down the aisle.
Chidi reportedly met the love of his life few months back and since then, the romance has been waxing stronger and stronger.
Our source hinted that the charming angel whose name is still under wraps is the happiest woman in the world at the moment.
Wande Coal, Flavour, Sound Sultan, Kay Cee Of The KC PreshFame, Duncan Mighty & More…Unplugged Harp Rhythm Unplugged In Port Harcourt
It was the third in the series of the Harp sponsored Rhythm Unplugged comedy/music concerts and the venue was the high brow Presidential Hotels in Port-Harcourt.
With great names like Wande Coal, Flavour, Sound Sultan, Kay Cee of the KC Presh fame, Duncan Mighty, AY, Gordons, W4 and I Go Dye on the line, Port Harcourt had great fun, a forth night ago.
Sound Sultan, the Jagbadantis master set the ball rolling with his delivery and when he pitched with the hit song Orobo, the crowd screamed out their delight with cat calls and whistles.
Flavour didn’t disappoint as he took the audience on a merry go round dipping into his musical arsenal to arouse and caress crowd with his songs.
From Na’bania through Nwa Baby, he finally anchored the night on his famous hit song Oyi. It was ecstatic.
Home boy, Duncan Mighty who had arrived the venue in cloud of aides went about the show in a business manner. And deliver he did and with his usual Port Harcourt swag.
Wande Coal was just awesome as he reeled out tracks after tracks of his hit songs. With the ladies swooning and screaming, Wande was at his ultimate best as he treated the Port Harcourt crowd like royalty.
In all, it was a good show and money worth for those who came.
The first Harp sponsored Rhythm Unplugged held last year in Abuja and in spite of the fear of the deadly BokoHaram sect and their threat to bomb strategic spots in the nation’s capital city, the show was a resounding success.
That success story seemed to have spurred the Cecil Hammond led Flytime Entertainment, organisers of the show to unleash on the Lagos audience, the best of A-list musicians and comedians.
Dubbed the Mother of All Shows ‘ Rhythm Unplugged’ held two separate editions for music and comedy.
The Lagos leg of the event, which was tagged ‘The biggest comedy festival ever’ was held December 18 at the exquisite Eko Hotel and Towers, Victoria Island in Lagos.
Internationally acclaimed comedians Ndumiso and LoyisoGol from South Africa were imported to add more spice to the night of comedy.
Apart from some of the world class comedians, the organisers also lined up amongst others Basket Mouth Gordons, I Go Dye, Bovi and Buchi.
And the very next Saturday at the Oceanview restaurant, some of the best musicians were on hand to blow away a sold out crowd.
The list was awesome and paraded big names like Timaya. P-Square, Ice Prince, Shina Peters, Whizkid, Tiwa Savage, Sound Sultan and Wande Coal.
AY and Ik of the Big Brother Africa fame anchored the music concert.
2010 Winner Of BBA Uti Nwachukwu Makes Nollywood Debut
Winner of the 2010 edition of the biggest Africa’s reality TV show, Big Brother Africa, UtiNwachukwu has finally made his debut in Nollywood. He starred in Elvis Chuks’ all-star movie titled “True Citizens.”
The movie is due to hit the cinemas on Friday, April 6.
Starring UtiNwachukwu , Alex Usifo, Brian Okwara, (Ex Mr. Nigeria), ClarethOnukogu, (Miss Nigeria U.S.A), KenethOkolie (Mr World 2nd Runner Up), Clara Iweh (Face of Unveil) and Melvin Odua (Mr Nigeria 2011, 1st Runner Up) amongst many other actors, the premiere is part of activities to mark the Easter celebration.
The movie reflects the spirit of the true citizens who can make it through dint of hardwork instead of meddling in illegal practice. “True Citizens” is a movie that centers on youths, their dreams, aspirations and objectives in life.
Also, the movie is set to attract a lot of interest because of the graceful appearances of such stars as Bryan Okwara who impressed in the movie “I’ll Take My Chances” and UtiNwachukwu, who has been enjoying a lot of media attention, two years after winning the prestigious BBA All star prize.
Steph-Nora Okere Debuts With TV Talk Show “The Lounge”
Sultry actress Steph-Nora Okere who has been off from the screen for sometimes now is set to launch a TV Talk Show.
It’s called “The Lounge” and it’s a docu-interview TV show that showcases patriots in Nigeria and their contributions towards the growth of the country.
In one of her interviews, the talented actress said the show is aimed primarily at celebrating idols and role models from all walks of life. It is also meant to help give our youths, who are fast derailing, a sense of direction and belongings.
It will start airing soon, and reportedly will be syndicated to many other partners in the United States and United Kingdom.
Uche Jombo Debuts With Talent Hunt Reality Show “Nollywood Star” Search In The UK
Top Nollywood actress UcheJombo whose trilogy “Damage” still making waves in the cinemas has done it again. The actress has debuted with a talent hunt reality show better known as Nollywood Star Search, in far away UK.
She is facilitating the project in collaboration with Nollywood Uncut.
Source close to the actress said the programme is open to all Nigerians, Africans as well as Afro- Carribean nationals. Auditions start in April/May 2012.
The source further revealed that the winner of the competition will get a lead role in a movie to be produced by UcheJombo’s studio and directed by Desmond Elliot in the summer of 2012.
As consolation prizes, five other participants will get smaller roles in the movie.
The reality show, in a statement by the organisers is geared towards affording participants the great opportunity to become stars and feature alongside other Nollywood greats in a mainstream Nollywood film.
Nollywood Uncut (best Nollywood website 2011 winner) is partnering UcheJombo studios to create this opportunity. Jombo who won the Actress of the Year award at the annual Exquisite Magazine Lady of the Year award in 2011, is a writer, producer and actress.
Faze Resurfaces With A New Look In Anticipation Of Release Of His New Album “Refazed”
After going under for a while, he suddenly reappeared with a new look – took off his short dreadlocks for the conventional low cut.
Afterward last year, he dropped two new singles, Nkem and I’m In The Mood off his upcoming album, Refazed.
And now, the slender singer has been working hard to drop God-knows which other single there is or probably the whole album.
Although he refused to open up on what he is up to Showtime spotted the singer at different locations around Festac Town where he’s been having his video shoot.
Since he started the shoot, Festac residents where he also resides, have been having the fun of their lives, as they watch him and his beautiful dancers do justice to his new music every time the tapes rolls.
Approached to get a feel of what video he’s shooting in his upcoming album Refazed, he simply replied “I’ll get back to you. As you see for yourself, I’ve been very busy shooting.
I don’t want to talk about anything. I know I’m not ready for you at the moment. I’m under pressure. Please, I’ll call you later whenever I’m ready to talk.”
Whizkid, Omawumi Up For The Abuja Young Entrepreneurs Awards
As the nation’s capital, Abuja gets ready for the maiden edition of The Abuja Young Entrepreneurs Awards (AYEA), organized by Fusion Lifestyle Limited and billed for Friday 20th, April, at the International Conference Center, FCT, the organizers are working round the clock to ensure the event lives up to its expectation.
The awards aim to recognize, motivate and celebrate young outstanding business owners in the FCT who have distinguished themselves among their contemporaries.
In all, there will be 11 categories of awards going out to outstanding individuals. Also, three other individuals will be honoured for their outstanding entrepreneurial skills and philanthropy.
Described as a night of glamour and entertainment, the event will be hosted by Matilda Duncan of Rhythm FM and Ebuka Obi-Uchendu of Big Brother fame.
It will also feature musical performances by top musicians like WhizKid, Omawumi as well as upcoming Abuja artistes.
There will also be comedy by popular comedian, Chigurl and Ajebo and a fashion show by the Fashion and Style nominees, Dzyn Couture, House of Farrah, Ms. Makor, Reedas and Serendipity.
Speaking on the event, a key member of the team, SamiahOyekan said ‘’there is so much excitement about this event, many youths are looking forward to it. We want to assure all of them that it will be entertaining and fulfilling”
Ice Prince “The Magician” Music Video Reggae Chart Topper Gyptian And Produced By Jesse Jagz Is Out On TV Networks
“The Magician” the music video from Africa’s most-requested artist, Ice Prince, featuring reggae chart topper Gyptian and produced by Jesse Jagz is out and sizzling on TV networks.
The hit single “Magician” was originally released as part of Ice Prince’s debut album, E.L.I. “Everybody Loves Ice Prince”, in October 2011.
It was shortly thereafter that Spinlet partnered with Chocolate City in Nigeria and learned Ice Prince had an interest in working with Gyptian in some format.
At that time, Spinlet was also in talks with VP records (Queens, New York) to bring their massive reggae catalog to the Spinlet service.
Because of their relationship with both parties, Spinlet was able to confirm Gyptian’s participation; one of Jamaica’s hottest R&B/Reggae stars who’s achieved mainstream success, to add his own verses to Ice Prince’s song.
“It is a pleasure for Spinlet to work with such accomplished artistes from two separate countries from different genres whose styles blend so well,” says Spinlet CEO Eric Idiahi.
“This song has great potential to succeed, with two high profile players involved, Ice Prince (artist/writer) and Jesse Jagz (producer), both signed to Chocolate City, that’s why we chose this to be the first in our sponsored song/video collaboration.
Bringing in Gyptian as part of the re-mix supports Spinlet’s initiative to promote the work of Jamaican artists throughout Africa, and in creative ways exposing them to a new market with massive revenue potential,” say Spinlet CMO Mark Redguard.
The video was shot by one of the most respected directors in the Nigerian Music Video scene, Clarence Peters. Filmed in Lagos at KOGA studios, the video had five sets and is done in a 360-circle fashion.
Nigeria’s First International Female Talking Drummer, Ara Becomes Water Ambassador
One of Nigeria’s finest performers and first female talking drummer of international repute, Ara made another headline in far away New York City, when she was made the Melody Ambassador for Water by Melody For Dialogue Among Civilized Association, an organization affiliated to UNESCO and UN on the world water day at the Merkin Kaufman concert hall.
At the well attended ceremony with representatives from the UNESCO headquarters in France, UN office in New York, Ara was eulogized as a woman who broke away with traditions and norms of limitation usually imposed on women from all parts of the world.
Apart from this, Ara is seen as a bringer of comfort and happiness to the children and women in her native Nigeria through her NGO called Ara Passion Project.
As the water ambassador, her office covers the entire world starting from her Native Nigeria.
she is expected to educate and raise awareness on the need for accesibility and sustainability of clean water in all parts of the world.
She is to communicate with world leaders on the need for the earth to be a haven for children and need for portable water as a right for all citizens of the world.
As part of her trip to the US, she’s meeting with the ambassador of Nigeria to the United States of America, HE Ade Adefuye, the Director of the UNESCO office in New York and an eventual recording with the human beat box, Douge Fresh.
No Competition Between Wizkid And Myself – Davido
It’s unforgivable if you are a club regular and you don’t know the wonder boy Davido that brought us Damiduro. He is a talented songwriter and singer who is still reeling from his impact with lime light. Yet, many industry watchers insist that his coming at this time is deliberate; possibly strategic, to counter a monopoly currently being enjoyed by the reigning young artist – Wizkid.
Davido according to the look of these comparisons has chased Wizkid into his class of fame, money and perhaps women. Their music race along the same genre. They both have well developed penning skills that leaves them twisting yoruba words beautifully together before sprinkling them most creatively down their song lines.
Davido & Wizkid
Like Wizkid, Davido has gotten his own fair share of controversies especially as it concerns love and women. A case is the ‘bad girl picture gone viral’ which many say had further helped push the young singer into the face of the media.
Yet each time Davido is confronted with this question from entertainment journalists and blogs, his answer is a firm No. In his words “There is no competition between me and Wizkid. I’m actually with him most of the time. We sometimes talk about it, laugh about it; we go on twitter and look at blogs.
I don’t know why people weigh us together. I don’t believe in turn by turn; Why can’ Wizkid have a number one song in Abuja and I have another one in Port Harcourt or somewhere else and everyone carries it together; no competition as such. I see him as a colleague, maybe if I didn’t know him personally; but I do. We are even planning some things together, so cool.”
It’s a reply many have taken with a pinch of salt. Already, there is inside talk that an album is in the cooking for the young celebrity which will be unveiled at a mind blowing event similar to the one held for Wizkid at his superstar album launch last year at the Expo hall of the Eko Hotel and suites in Lagos. There will be series of collaborations which will be featured strongly in the album. One of which should be with Wizkid himself.
Call it a test of might but this is one unconscious rivalry, everyone one in the business of entertainment reporting anxiously waits to see if it eventually unfolds.
FelaPalava! Afrobeat Legend Comes To Life As Final 3 Nigerian Idol Contestants Do Musical Battle
It was a night of unending excitement and a walk down memory lane as Nigerian Idol’s final 3 performed Nigerian songs including songs from Afrobeat legend, FelaAnikulapoKuti. As Najite took her final bow on the competition earlier in the week, Mercy, Joe Blue and Stephen were the remaining contenders for the Idol title. Added to the list of the judges for the night was Grammy-nominated artiste, Femi AnikulapoKuti. Guest performers for the night were Jesse Jags and Black Magic who wowed the audience with individual performances.
“It is true when they say time flies when you are having lots of fun,” Project manager TiwaMedubi highlighted. “It has been an incredibly hectic few months and suddenly a star will be unveiled, this what we all have been waiting for from the first day. We wish the remaining contestants all the best, they deserve to win,”she added.
Stephen Onochie in performance
For the very first time on the Nigerian Idol stage, the performances were opened by the Top 3 contestants with a group song; “Water” by FelaAnikulapoKuti. The last girl standing, Mercy started the contest proper with her rendition of Victor Uwaifo’s ‘Joromi’. It was an exotic display of her vocal dexterity. She later rounded up her performance for the night with a superlative version of Fela’s song, ‘Zombie.’ Guest judge, Femi Kuti was so impressed that he rated her performance a triple A plus, mentioning that she reminded him of his grandmother and Fela’s mother, Funmilayo.
Next was Stephen Onochie, who entertained the audience with an energetic and choreographed performance of Flavour’s ‘Adanma.’ It was very evident that he brought his dancing shoes with him as he dazzled the audience with acrobatic steps in addition to his husky voice. For the second time that night, he performed another of Fela’s classics ‘Gentleman.’ His performance was given a pass by most of the judges.
To wrap up the first round of performances Joe Blue appeared in top form with his now legendary ‘Joe Pose’ as he teased the audience with the classic ‘Adaure.’ His last performance of the night was an elaborately orchestrated version of Fela’s immensely popular, ‘Palava’ bringing down the house with his very energetic and innovative performance.
It will be another week of edge-of-the-seat suspense as the Nigerian audience cast their votes for their favourite contestants. The result will be determined on Friday one last person leaves the Nigerian Idol stage forever.
According to www.nigerianidol.com, all episodes of the show can be found on the site as well as insider scoop and behind-the scenes pictures and footage.
The winner of Nigerian Idol will join an exclusive list of global Idol alumni, blazing musical trails in the international scene. Idol alumni around the world include American Idol’s Jordin Sparks, West African Idol’s Timi Dakolo and Nigerian Idol’s Yeka Onka.

domain: news


Fort Wayne Unveils Proposed Riverfront Development Design
The design for the first phase of Fort Wayne’s proposed riverfront development was unveiled Wednesday.
It includes an event pavilion, outdoor fitness area, and terraced seating sloping down to the St. Marys River.
But before construction can start, the city needs to acquire three properties along Superior and Harrison streets, including Ream-Steckbeck Paint and Cambray Associates, a carpet and flooring store.
The property owners declined the city’s initial offer. In a previous WBOI report, property owner John Steckbeck says he was offered a higher amount in the past. The city is now trying to acquire the properties through eminent domain.
Mayor Tom Henry says he thinks they will reach a resolution, and he hopes construction can begin in the spring of 2017.
The entire project is estimated to cost $20 million, which Henry says could come from a variety of sources, like state funds from the Regional Cities Initiative and private donations.
Henry says it’s important to invest in the rivers because it brings people to Fort Wayne, and he says riverfront development is what residents have asked for.
“So we’re gonna do it right. We’re not gonna do anything second class as we move this project forward,” Henry said. “It doesn’t cost that much more to go first class, and that’s what we need to do. If we’re going to take Fort Wayne to the forefront, then we got to do it right.”
He says he’s optimistic that the project can be completed by late summer of 2018.


Spider-Man: Homecoming is not even released yet but the superhero’s universe is already set to expand.
In addition to the fast-tracked Venom film, another production will see Silver Sable and Black Cat teaming up.
Production is set to start in autumn and the search for a director will begin shortly.
Created in 1985 Silver Sable is a hunter of war criminals and Black Cat, who made her debut in the comics in 1979, is infamous for battling Marvel heroes including Spider-Man himself.
Black Cat, also known as Felicia Hardy, has already made an appearance on the big screen in The Amazing Spider-Man 2 portrayed by Felicity Jones.


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Charming in the center of Cascais
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Linha de Cascais
2 single beds, 1 double bed, 1 double sofa bed
Check-in / Checkout:
Checkin after 15h, Checkout before 11h
Not allowed: Parties, Smoking, Hen/Stag party
Licence number: 22261/AL
An all-comfort apartment to enjoy sun, sea and golf
Located at a 10 minutes walk from the Cascais train station, from the center, its shops and restaurants and from the small beaches of this lovely little town, the apartment Casa de Cascais has been completely refurbished by its owner. All the Ethnic chic furniture was carefully re upholstered. You will spend a great vacation here, enjoying your private garden, the beach and the trips to Lisbon, just ½ hour train ride away.
The surroundings of the apartment:
The Estoril coast, from Oeiras to Cascais is composed of various coves with nice sandy beaches in Carcavelos, Parede or Estoril, all good for water sports and in particular surfing. Even though the water is very fresh in all seasons, you will enjoy being by this coast, swimming or sunbathing on the beaches, walking on the coastal trail or even shopping in Cascais. Besides its lovely situation, the fishing village of Cascais has become, over a few short years, an elegant shopping area with many fashionable boutiques and nice restaurants. Cultural life is not forgotten, Cascais, the Estoril casino and a few local Summer Jazz festivals have good entertainment for your pleasure.
The Casa de Cascais features a refined and delicate decoration and offers the advantage of a beautiful sunny terrace. The small beaches in the centre of Cascais or the wildest beach of Guincho are only minutes by car, unless you prefer to walk or ride a bike on the seafront bicycle lane.
The apartment with its 80sqm for a total capacity of 4 people features a large bedroom with a double bed and another one with two single beds.
The modern bathroom has a shower/bath and luxury towels for your comfort.
The spacious lounge/dining room opens onto a sunny terrace. In winter relax by the fire that you can prepare in the fireplace.
The kitchen offers all modern facilities and appliances so that you can enjoy meals in the apartment.
For your getaways to Lisbon, or for a larger holiday stay, the apartment Casa de Cascais is the ideal choice for those seeking sun, sea and tranquility.
- GENERAL: juicer, bed linen & towels, shower, bathtub
- APPLIANCES: washing machine, iron & ironing board, hairdryer, oven, fridge-freezer, toaster, dishwasher, Electric coffe maker, hob cooker (gas)
- MULTIMEDIA: TV
- OUTDOORS: Pets accepted under request, balcony, terrace

domain: travel


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domain: design


The 66 Artillery Regiment in Ho has re-affirmed its stance to continue to team up with the local media in vital information gathering and sharing to ensure peace and order in the Volta and Oti regions at all times.
The Commanding Officer, Lt Colonel Edward Sarpong Appiah acknowledged that the long standing collaboration between the regiment and the local media had contributed immensely to the effective law-abiding posture of the citizenry over the years.
He was speaking during an encounter with the media at the Volta Barracks on Friday.
The Commanding Officer pointed out that national development required peace and harmony in the society, adding that it took the collective responsibility of the citizenry and security agencies to uphold the law.
Lt Col Appiah made it clear that the 66 Artillery Regiment would never look on unconcerned when a few unruly individuals stirred up chaos to advance their selfish interests.
He said that the unit would act swiftly on any information it received from its media partners, so long as the enforcement of the law was concerned.
Meanwhile, Lt Col Appiah warned that any personnel of the unity whose rowdy conduct in public dragged the image of regiment in the mud would not be spared the rod.
Earlier, Mr Anthony Bells Kafui Kanyi, outgoing chairman of the Volta Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) said that the cordiality between the regiment and the local media was worthy a bond in the public interest.
“We hope this friendship will continue to benefit generations of soldiers and journalists yet unborn,” he added.
Some of the journalists who were impressed by the clean environment at the barracks suggested that the unit initiated a public sanitation crusade in the region.
FROM ALBERTO MARIO NORETTI, HO


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In last year’s Market Force Information survey ranking fast-food customers’ favorite brands, Chipotle Mexican Grill and Qdoba Mexican Grill tied for overall first place in the Mexican category, based on the research firm’s composite loyalty index.
This year, Chipotle and Qdoba were bumped out of first place by Taco Bueno, which grabbed #1 on the strength of its top score on one attribute: “value for the money.” (Last year, Taco Bueno didn’t make the rankings at all.)
However, the good news for Chipotle, given its string of highly visible food contamination crises during 2015, is that it still managed to come in second overall in the Mexican category, with a 53% loyalty score to Taco Bueno’s 57%.
The survey, which also ranks pizza, chicken and sandwich QSRs, was conducted in January among 10,477 respondents representing a cross-section of the four U.S. census regions.
Also good news for Chipotle: While it lost its #1 ranking in cleanliness to Rubio’s this year, it kept its #1 rankings both for “quality food” and “healthy food.” It also grabbed the #1 ranking for fast service this year.
Chipotle’s strong performance after all its troubles might strike some as surprising. However, Cheryl Flink, chief strategy officer for Market Force, points out that it’s important to keep it in mind that the research is conducted among people prescreened as having dined in QSRs in the past 30 days, and for ranking purposes, as having visited the specific chain being ranked.
The respondents are people who chose to visit Chipotle despite the food-borne illness instances—people “who are very loyal to Chipotle, and rated it high in food-related attributes, as well as in other attributes,” observes Flink. Also, she says, “food quality is a very different metric than food safety. Those who visited Chipotle still trusted the brand and still found it delivered high quality and healthful food.”
Providing another perspective, financial writer Michael Brush recently made the admittedly “audacious” argument in Market Watch that consumer response to Chipotle’s freebie offers indicates that, despite double-digit drops in comparable-store sales in recent months, “people aren’t really that concerned about the health issues.”
One case in point: When Chipotle shut down during the lunch period for an internal meeting on February 8, it offered a mobile-delivered rain check for a free lunch to those who said they’d visited a Chipotle during the brief shutdown. Instead of the company’s expected 2.5 million requests for rain checks, there were 5.3 million within five hours. If people were “seriously worried about Chipotle’s health risks, they wouldn’t abandon their concerns for a mere $8-$10 dollars—the value of the free food offer,” asserts Brush, who adds that restaurant chains typically recover fully from “food scares” within about a year.
Putting the unique Chipotle scenario aside, Rubio’s Fresh Mexican Grill (which didn’t make the rankings last year) took the overall #3 ranking in the Mexican category this year, with Qdoba in a virtual tie for that ranking (both scored 51% on the loyalty index).
El Pollo Loco rounded out the top five, followed by Moe’s Southwest Grill, Del Taco, Baja Fresh, Taco John’s, Taco Cabana and Taco Bell.
Interestingly, while 18% of respondents reported having visited a Mexican chain at least five times in the previous 90 days, that was significantly down from 2015, when 14% reported visiting such a restaurant at least 10 times every 90 days.
Taco Bell ranked low on nearly every attribute except value (where it ranked #5), but its mobile app had the greatest awareness (35% of respondents). Overall, 45% of respondents reported having downloaded an app from a Mexican food chain.
Papa Murphy’s Again #1 in Pizza
In the competitive, $40-billion pizza category, Papa Murphy’s ranked #1 for the third consecutive year. Pizza Ranch again took the #2 slot. Marco’s Pizza (which didn’t make the rankings last year) ranks #3 this year, followed by Papa John’s, Domino’s, CiCi’s, Little Caesar’s and Pizza Hut.
Papa Murphy’s ranked #1 for food quality, healthy options, fast service and cleanliness. Little Caesars ranked top for value, and Pizza Ranch for friendly service and atmosphere.
More than a quarter (28%) of respondents said they’d visited a pizza chain at least five times in the previous 90 days. Half (53%) said they’d downloaded a pizza-chain app, and 60% were aware of Domino’s’ app.
Chick-fil-A Leads the
Chick-fil-A led the chicken QSR category for the second year, followed by Raising Cane’s, Zaxby’s, Bojangles’, El Pollo Loco, Buffalo Wild Wings, Wingstop, Boston Market, Popeyes and KFC.
Chick-fil-A captured the top spot in all but two attributes. EL Pollo Loco was #1 in healthy options, and Raising
Cane’s in value. KFC scored last in four of the seven attributes.
Nearly half (48%) of respondents reported having visited a chicken chain at least five times in the previous 90 days, with 22% visiting at least 10 times. Chicken chain apps have been downloaded by 40%, with Wingstop’s leading awareness (24%).
McAlister’s, Firehouse Top Sandwiches
This year, McAlister’s Deli leads the overall sandwich category rankings, followed by Firehouse Subs, Jersey
Mike’s, Panera Bread, Jason’s Deli (which was #1 in 2015), Jimmy John’s, Wawa, Subway and Arby’s.
No one brand dominated the attributes in the sandwich category. Jason’s Deli was rated tops for quality, Panera for healthfulness, and Firehouse for friendly service and cleanliness. Convenience-store chain Wawa ranked highest for value, and Jimmy John’s for speed of service.
Thirty-nine percent of respondents had visited a sandwich chain at least five times in the previous 90 days, and 50% have downloaded a sandwich chain’s app (with awareness of Panera’s highest, at 36%).
Survey respondents’ ages ranged from 18 to over 65; 68% were women and 32% were men; and 51% reported household incomes of more than $50,000 a year.

domain: food


An intense year politically with the arrival of the regional elections on May 28 and the general ones in the coming months. The candidates prepare for the polls and, throughout these months, they work on their electoral campaign to achieve the best results. In this sense, they also take the opportunity to bring out their most personal side.
Read also – Pedro Sánchez and Feijóo meet in Seville for the Goyas: we are in the campaign
The leader of the popular Alberto Núñez Feijóo, goes on this path. So much so that she has given an interview for a trends, fashion, lifestyle and also “couples” supplement. When asked about his life partner, the businesswoman Eva Cardenassays in Yodonain an interview that is published in its entirety this weekend: “She is a much better manager than me, she was brave and left her comfort zone to be a mother.”
Cárdenas was an external advisor to the Sargadelos group, a company with two hundred years of history that sells handmade porcelain in Galicia and which she joined in December 2020. She held this position until August 2022, when both moved their residence to Madrid for the political rise of the former president of the Xunta de Galicia.
They have been dating since 2013, when she was director of Zara Home. As the Galician revealed, they met on a plane and their relationship quickly strengthened. In 2017 they were parents of their first child together, Alberto. She, divorced, was already the mother of a girl, the result of her first (and for the moment only) marriage.
Read also – From Antonio Banderas to the Royal House, Pedro Sánchez and Feijóo: goodbye to the great Carlos Saura
Eva could become the next Spanish First Lady and ‘lady’ of Moncloa, and would combine her new position with her work at the Niebla Azul real estate company, founded by herself with her daughter Gabriela in March 2019. It is an agency focused on the rental business. Cárdenas herself defined it as “a beautiful project, well done and generating employment.”


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AI PNG | 297 MB
A large nature inspired pack of botanical illustrations. It features leaves, branches, flowers, herbs, cones, bouquets and arrangements. Everything is hand drawn and vector.
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The color of the illustrations can be easily changed both in Photoshop and in Illustrator.

domain: artistic


text:
The concluding days of the month of March celebrated as Ghana Month, ended this year with some drama and style.
There was some level of excitement in the air never mind the heat of E-Levy debates with conjectures of “it will never pass” and “it will pass”.
The national football team, the Black Stars had given many football fans too much heartbreak to the extent that some had switched off, world cup qualifiers or not.
As for Covid-19, many were getting on with their lives as if it never was. State of the nation’s address? Did we hear the minority in Parliament’s clamour?
Then suddenly, within a week, we began to see some unfolding turns, scenes within a Play.
We could not have asked for such a climax to a month-long celebration and awareness creation of some of our values as a nation.
As if by design, or maybe it was, we started the week with what could be described as relieving Covid-19 news in general for businesses and outdoor-related enterprises in particular. Two good years of sluggishness and uncertainties due to Covid-19 lockdown and other restrictions in one’s social life made it difficult for them.
The President’s broadcast to the nation on Covid-19 at the start of the week gave some people a bit of a sigh but with caution, though.
The broadcast outlined the easing of a number of Covid-19 protocols including the resumption of in-person activities in full capacity. Full vaccination and wearing of masks were the watchwords, nonetheless.
Though the measures could be of good cheer to business owners who had always bellowed for an end to the restrictions on outdoor activities, the caution was clear. One was not completely out of the woods yet.
Thus, indirectly saying that one’s safety is in one’s own hands. Whatever the case, some excitement was ringing in the air for some people.
Before one could catch one’s breath on Covid-19 restrictions, the electronic levy on mobile money transfers, popularly referred to as E-Levy had entered our space. With no inclination from Parliamentary correspondents that the proposed tax was finally going to be tabled for discussion in Parliament on Tuesday, one later got the headline news at noon that E-Levy had been passed by the Parliament of Ghana.
The drama surrounding the happenings of the day was like a well-rehearsed final Act and Scene in a Play. One may call it a smart move or great luck in the number game that had held up the passing of the bill by Parliament for weeks; the climax must have been a great relief to the majority side in Parliament. Of course, to some of us, the noise was over and we were moving forward.
The people of Tamale had a course to celebrate that same day with the gift of their first-ever interchange which was earlier commissioned by the President, accompanied by the Vice President. And of course, the President himself, marked in a white shirt that morning, had cause to push the boat out -a personal milestone – on his 78th birthday, looking healthy and vibrant.
The Tamale merriment later brought us another bigger celebration, this time at the national level, especially for football fans.
The Black Stars of Ghana succeeded in putting up a good performance far away in Abuja, Nigeria, as they played in the world cup qualifier against the Super Eagles of Nigeria. Some hearts were palpitating for an away game like that.
But the odds turned in Ghana’s favour. Ghana Black Stars prevailed and qualified for the World Cup in Qatar. Excitement galore defined our evening that day and the nation with a passion for football momentarily got united behind the national football team.
The tension of E-Levy got watered down just in time for a relieving night’s sleep.
The drama of the final week of Ghana Month unfolded in another scene, come Wednesday. The long-awaited State Of the Nation Address (SONA) became a reality. The President was in Parliament, no walk-out by the way, to present what his government saw as the true state of the nation.
As usual, comments from the minority saw it as a “state of national promises” and not the true state of affairs. Various interpretations were proffered later in the day.
Whatever it was, the cry over the delay and not knowing what the nation’s state was ended with a final Act and Scene just before Ghana month closed.
The Ghana Football Association carried the entire Black Star team including the Head Coach and the team of footballers to the Jubilee House to receive their Presidential commendation.
Belated happy birthday to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo. But boy, what a month, what a week, what scenes of drama and what a climax to the celebration of Ghana Month, 2022.
Ghana was indeed the winner!
You can reach the writer via email at firstname.lastname@example.org
- Akufo-Addo’s Minister caught in conflict? – JoyNews investigations
- E-levy has failed to live up to government’s expectation – Gabby Otchere-Darko
- You can only demonstrate from 8am to 4pm – High Court tells Arise Ghana
- Caught in conflict: GII calls for dismissal of Deputy Sanitation Minister
- Former NDA CEO accuses successor of doctoring figures, forging his signature in ¢10m fraud case
- ‘I am not against an IMF programme’ – Gabby Otchere-Darko
- Photos: Osinachi laid to rest
- ‘AG won’t get any apology from me, I’m ready to meet him in court’ – Ablakwa
- SIM card registration deadline will not be extended – Communications Minister
- Interest payments to rise further as cost of borrowing increases
Nancy Sam appointed new Tourism Ambassador for Miami-Dade County
Ofori-Atta has not indicated need to seek economic support from IMF – Oppong Nkrumah
Playback: PM Express discuss the struggling E-levy
Arise Ghana appeals High Court ruling on protest
‘E-levy was bound to fail from the beginning’ – Dr Ato Forson
2022 MTN FA Cup Final: Augustine Okrah apologises over headbutting incident
I looked strong outside; but was hurting within – Lady who turned lawyer after 11-year struggle
Land guards attack Dome residents, homes destroyed
“Slow down” on National Cathedral building, tackle poverty – Asabee
Freiburg announce the signing of Daniel-Kofi Kyereh
AIMS Ghana holds Industry and Academia Forum 2022
E-levy is a failed tax measure – Sam George
I get worried about not getting married – MzVee
Jackie Appiah’s home leaves many speechless
It is too early to rate performance of E-levy – Prof. Lord Mensah


Minor Developments: Under the radar
This week I’m looking at guys doing damage on the farm without getting the attention they deserve.
Many soured on Rangers pitcher Martin Perez(notes) following his rough ’10 campaign (5-8, 5.96 ERA), but those same folks also forget he was only 19 years old, and one of the youngest at the level. He’s rebounded nicely this season, going 4-1 with a 3.03 ERA, while also posting an impressive 68/27 K/BB ratio in 71.1 innings. His command has improved significantly from last season, as has the quality and consistency with his curveball. Perez has an explosive mid-90s fastball, and mixes in a plus change, giving him one of the most dynamic arsenals in the minors.
At the end of April, I covered some deeper prospects, and mentioned Cardinals pitcher Carlos Martinez(notes) as a sleeper who I expected to shoot up prospect lists. So far, so good for Martinez, evident by his 2.48 ERA and 43/12 K/BB ratio in his first 32.2 innings. The Cardinals are handling him with kid gloves, giving him six to seven days between starts, which will ultimately put his season innings total in the 100-120 range. He’s a must add in dynasty formats, and should land inside top 25 prospect lists at the end of the season if he continues his progression.
In that same April piece, I mentioned Padres third baseman James Darnell as being a player to continue monitoring. He’s tearing up the Texas League this season, batting .351 with 13 homers and 49 runs batted in, all while posting an outstanding .448 on-base percentage. I love players who can work the count, and Darnell has excelled in this area, striking out less times (36) than he’s walked (41) this season. He still has some work to do defensively, and may ultimately move to a corner outfield position. The bat plays though, which is what fantasy players need to be concerned with.
Much of the attention in the Arizona system is going to first baseman Paul Goldschmidt(notes) these days, but outfielder Collin Cowgill(notes) also deserves a mention for his hot hitting. He’s currently batting .369 with 12 homers and 19 steals at Triple-A Reno, and is on the verge of a promotion. The thinking is he’ll push Gerardo Parra(notes) for playing time upon his arrival, and could be a nice power/speed combo guy during the second half of the season. Those in NL-only and deeper mixed formats need to pay particularly close attention here.
Astros second base prospect Jose Altuve is having a remarkable season, and his hot hitting has earned him a recent promotion to Double-A. All he’s done is rake, batting .404 with seven homers and 46 runs batted in across two levels thus far. Altuve does work when on the bases as well, stealing a combined 22 bases so far this season. He’s quickly becoming an exciting fantasy prospect, so get in now while the hype surrounding him is still at a modest level.
Cardinals top prospect Shelby Miller(notes) also recently made the jump to Double-A, and has continued his dominance there, going 1-0 with a 2.25 ERA in his first two starts. He’s still blowing batters away, striking out 14 while only walking four in his first 12.2 innings. More importantly, the move to Double-A signals the Cardinals are serious about getting him to the majors in 2012. The 20 year old has a chance to win a spot in the rotation next spring, but is more likely to be included in the early wave of 2012 June call-ups.
Here are updates on players about to be promoted:
Paul Goldschmidt, 1B, Arizona Diamondbacks: At the rate he’s raking, he’ll be up before the end of the month. Goldschmidt has a .342 average and 21 homers, and is the bat to target if you need power during the second half of the fantasy season.
Desmond Jennings(notes), OF, Tampa Bay Rays: Strictly a rabbit no more, as Jennings has launched nine homers this season, a sign that he’s finally healthy after a handful of injury plagued seasons. His .282 average and 12 steals make him a complete lead-off package, one that should be at the top of the Rays lineup by the beginning of July.
Jason Kipnis(notes), 2B, Cleveland Indians: Cord Phelps(notes) got the call early last week, and has scuffed along in the majors, picking up only one hit in his first 14 at-bats. Kipnis is the superior prospect of the two, with defense being the only thing holding him back at this point. His time is coming though, possibly before the end of June. He’s currently batting .296 with seven homers and 10 steals, without being caught.
If you feel your favorite prospect has been slighted, or want to discuss any of the players mentioned this week, let’s hear it in the comments section below. Now in the heart of promotion season, the time to talk minor league players is now.
Follow Rob Steingall on Twitter
Have a prospect question? A player you want to see covered? Send it to MinorDevelopments@yahoo.com
Rob Steingall is a nationally syndicated fantasy analyst whose work has appeared in newspapers including The Providence Journal.


F. Beunis et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. (2012)
Wobbling in place. A new technique detects each elementary charging event on a submerged, 1-micron-wide plastic bead by applying a strong oscillating voltage to a pair of electrodes and measuring the bead’s oscillation amplitude. A laser trap (red) keeps the bead loosely anchored.


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Million Dollars for Mito
John and Rebecca's baby boy Maddox was diagnosed with Leigh's disease at five months old, a severe, progressive form of Mitochondrial disease.
Maddox sadly passed away on the 17th of November 2015, surrounded by his loving family.
John & Rebecca have built Maddox a huge legacy through the amazing fundraising that they have done to help Starship fight Mitochondrial disease. What they have achieved in Maddox's honour is truly remarkable, and will be life changing for other families living with a child with Mitochondrial disease.
Thank you for your selflessness, enthusiasm and love John & Rebecca, and everyone who has supported Million for Mito, we are truly grateful for your support. #Don'tLetThePowerGoOut
Mitochondria are found in every cell in the human body, except red blood cells; they are responsible for producing more than 90% of the energy that the body requires. They are like the powerhouse for our cells. When mitochondria do not work properly they cannot produce the energy that the body needs, resulting in damaged cells and eventually possible cell death. Depending on where these damaged cells are, determines which parts of the body are affected. There are many forms of mitochondrial disease affecting mainly children but also adults too.
Currently there is no treatment or cure for this cruel, debilitating disease, let's change that.....Mitochondrial Disease - Don't Let the Power Go Out!Rebecca Parker
John and Rebecca are fundraising to help Starship Hospital provide more training, awareness and a hope for a cure for Mitochondrial disease for all of the children and families living with the effects of this disease. Check out some of their incredible fundraisers below!
Fire Fighters Trade Hoses for Sponges in Support of Million for Mito
John Parker with son Maddox, and Area Manager Roy Breeze at Hamilton's/Ngaruawahia's Car Wash
Fire Fighters across the country were out in force on the 19th of September, armed with buckets and sponges and hand-washing cars in support of Million for Mito. Over 20 firebrigades from all across New Zealand teamed together to raise an incredible total of $19,300 for Million for Mito!
To see the family information brochure about Mitochondrial Disease, made possible thanks to 'Million for Mito' click here
To find out more about Maddox and Mitochondrial disease please visit John and Rebecca's Facebook page.
To donate to the Million Dollars for Mito fund please visit John and Rebecca's fundraising page.
More From Starship
A trial programme has just been launched at Starship, which aims to help hundreds of children get off feeding tubes, and learn to eat and drink again.

domain: health


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Here he dreamcasts an adaptation of his latest novel, The Messenger:
Without spoiling anything, all through the action of The Messenger, Daria, the protagonist, thinks of herself in reference to a certain well-known Hollywood actress. So, if they made a film of The Messenger, it would be very cool to have this actor in the part. The second major character is Sam Watterman, a scientist with expertise in biological warfare. Sam Waterston is an alliterative choice, and would be just fine. I'd be happy with him. When I wrote it I often thought of Walter Matthau. I think a lot of well known character actors could inhabit Sam's shoes.Learn more about the book and author at Stephen Miller's website.


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Senior Retirement Communities & Homes in Hayden, Alabama
Here are the best 55+ senior retirement communities and homes in Hayden, Alabama. This list of Hayden, AL retirement facilities includes care homes for retirees, as well as retirement communities for 55+ adults, including active, independenent living, assisted living and continuing care retirement communities (CCRC).
Jacobs House I is a home for retirees in Hayden, Alabama in the 35079 zip code area. Nestled at 101 Jacobs Lane inside Blount county, Jacobs House I provides retirement living to all retirees who live in Hayden and offers a welcoming environment, as well as three nutritious meals per day, on-site physician services and medication reminders. It can accommodate a maximum of 16 or fewer older adults at a time.
Jacobs House Ii is a retirement residence in Blount county, Alabama. It is situated at 101 Jacobs Lane in Hayden, Alabama and offers senior care and living to retirees who reside in the Blount county area. Jacobs House Ii can provide care and housing to up to 16 seniors at a time. Some of the features offered by Jacobs House Ii include memory care for dementia and Alzheimer’s, medication review and a library. Senior citizens who are looking for retirement communities in Blount county, Alabama near the 35079 zip code area will feel great about selecting Jacobs House Ii as their retirement residence.
Jacobs House, Iii is a pet-friendly retirement facility in Blount county, Alabama that offers many amenities to its residents. It is located at 101 Jacobs Lane in Hayden, Alabama, 35079 zip code area. Some of the amenities provided by Jacobs House, Iii include a restaurant, visiting physician and laundry for all personal clothes. Jacobs House, Iii can provide retirement living to a maximum of 16 or fewer retired adults.
6 More Retirement Homes in Blount County, AL
Diversicare Of Oneonta is a retirement community in Oneonta, Alabama that accepts Medicaid and Medicare to cover some of the cost for retirement living. Diversicare Of Oneonta is situated at 215 Valley Road in Blount county and includes amenities such as walking paths and trails, spacious apartment suites, personal hygiene help and caregiving staff members on-call throughout the night and day. It can provide older adults living in Blount county a maximum of 120 total retirement apartments.
When looking for luxury assisted senior living communities in Oneonta, Alabama, you will come across Olive Home, located at 1100 Second Avenue East, 35121 zip code area. Olive Home enables senior citizens living in Blount county in Alabama to experience retirement living at its best. With community features like hygiene assistance, regular doctor visits and special dietary accommodations, senior citizens should feel great about selecting Olive Home as their retirement community. It can accommodate senior citizens living in Blount county with a maximum of 22 or less retirement residences.
Finding the best senior home in Oneonta, Alabama is not easy, but it’s possible if you look at Tlc Nursing Center. It is situated at 212 Ellen Street and provides services that include customized meal plans, pet friendly services and daily activities assistance. Tlc Nursing Center provides 103 total retirement apartments to Blount county seniors.
Olive Home, Oneonta #2 is a senior home located in Oneonta, Alabama at 1100 Second Avenue East. It offers seniors in Oneonta and nearby areas who are trying to find retirement homes in Blount county amenities that include hygiene assistance, 24/7 front desk assistance, a nursing center and dietary menu for diabetics, physician services. Olive Home, Oneonta #2 contains 18 total retirement residences.
Those senior citizens who require help with everyday tasks and desire a home for retirees in Oneonta, Alabama should consider Magnolia House. It can provide retirement living to a total of 40 retirees. Magnolia House helps with daily tasks such as shower, dressing, help moving around and other nursing care as needed. It includes amenities like modern retirement apartments and a beauty salon.
Prince Place is a retirement facility in Blount county that provides board and care services for 55 and over adults who reside in Trafford, Alabama and nearby areas. It’s situated in the 35172 zip code area at 925 Vaughn Road and includes amenities like expanded dietary menu, meal assistance, scheduled off-site activities and newly renovated retirement residences. It includes a total of 16 retirement living units.
Retirement homes near Hayden, AL
- Opp, AL
- Mobile, AL
- Selma, AL
- Florence, AL
- Opelika, AL
- Jacksonville, AL
- Haleyville, AL
- Troy, AL
- Foley, AL
- Geneva, AL
- Gardendale, AL
- Clanton, AL
- Daphne, AL
- Northport, AL
- Decatur, AL
- Calhoun County, AL
- Randolph County, AL
- Lee County, AL
- Cullman County, AL
- Houston County, AL
- Dekalb County, AL
- Jackson County, AL
- Walker County, AL
- Escambia County, AL
- Morgan County, AL
- Colbert County, AL
- Coffee County, AL
- Jefferson County, AL
- Dallas County, AL
- Limestone County, AL
Additional retirement options in Hayden, AL
Talk to a retirement living expert. 100% free, no obligation information.(888) 989-7961

domain: geography


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Things I liked about my stay at Extended Stay America - Columbia - Gateway Drive:
- the garden outside was very well kept and welcoming;
- the reception staff were all freindly and helpful;
- the room was generously sized, clean and well-furinished;
- free WiFi in the room worked well, if a little slow;
- it is in a quiet location and I didn't have any problems with noise on any of the 3 nights of my stay.
Things I didn't like:
- on entering the room, my nose was assailed with the overpowering smell of fried curry spices. I know that the hotel management can't control what guests cook in their room but I would have expected the service staff to have taken steps to remove the odors;
- during my 3 night stay, my room wasn't serviced once (the bed wasn't made up fresh, there was no cleaning of the bathroom and no vacuuming);
- a bit more variety in the grab-and-go breakfast would be welcome (muffins, cereal bars and fruit eveyr morning gets rather boring).
Overall though, my stay was good value for money and I'd consider staying there again if in Baltimore on business.
- Reservation Options:
- TripAdvisor is proud to partner with Booking.com, Extended Stay, Orbitz, Hotels.com and Priceline so you can book your Extended Stay America - Columbia - Gateway Drive reservations with confidence. We help millions of travelers each month to find the perfect hotel for both vacation and business trips, always with the best discounts and special offers.
- Also Known As:
- Extended Stay America Columbia


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Vsitours.com - Evolve World Tour. Tourism can be a booming market. With many travellers flocking to unique locations close to the globe, tourism is now one of essentially the most feasible business enterprise markets during the globe. Nevertheless, air vacation, car travel and other facets of tourism are including to your planet's air pollution crisis which is now a challenge. Travel operators and hospitality corporates realised that some motion necessary to become taken, and Eco-tourism was developed as a remedy to this issue.
You'll find two amounts of answers to your query of why people today vacation. The very first is the evident a person, and probably the reason we give ourselves and quote to others. We vacation so that we can easily see sights, working experience other cultures, attend occasions and learn more details on the whole world. These are definitely enjoyable reasons. But you will discover deeper explanations for traveling that have considerably less to perform with what we do after we travel, plus much more to perform with what touring does to us. These 5 sets of modifications to ourselves are within the coronary heart of what will make travel so compelling.
Responsible tourism means all tourism straight dependent on the use of organic daily life e.g. wildlife and landscape. Mother nature primarily based tourism incorporate eco-tourism and mass tourism.See Also: Travis Tritt Tour 2017
Travel experiences with the Nomad in advance of the world wide web and the way to preserve and have greater information, information immediately after the web by likely directly to skilled brokers and vacation operators. Introducing a vacation club in which you might get cost-free vouchers for discounted journey in in excess of 70 nations. That is connected to Evolve World Tour.
Similar to Evolve World Tour, Scheduling air travel, creating resort reservations and arranging getaway travel normally has modified completely along with the introduction of your world-wide-web and a lot of people today try and be their unique journey brokers. When you can set up seemingly the majority of your travel by yourself, you cannot do too as your vacation agent in a long haul!
Tours are an easy way to see dream destinations. If you’re one of individuals people that enjoy travel but hate to organize everything yourself and also have others plan and demonstrate around, an excursion clients are the answer.


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We always know it when that moment arrives, when we get to “click” with that intriguing, seemingly unattainable but at the same time tangible other! Give it a cold evening in November, two cups of semi-hot coffee and endless talk and there you have it “clickety-click” .. which is how the story began for Irini and Ioannis, the beautiful couple whose romantic wedding in Cyprus I got to capture. A fairytale wedding ceremony in Archangelos Michail church soaked in warm burgundies touches of whimsical vintage embroidery and fairytale details inspired by the Victorian times.
One of my first and foremost wishes as a wedding photographer is tending to my bride and grooms’ family images and I knew that despite Irini’s late father’s absence (and at the same time especially because of this) there shouldn’t be a moment undocumented. Family imagery always speaks volumes to the heart and therefore a heritage part of every wedding photography collection. From the couple’s endless laughs to their every lovely lush detail our day rolled seamlessly with Irini shinning in her BHLDN wedding dress and their wedding planner Eleana Nikolaou and their florist EDEM Floral Creations setting the most joyful scene for the most memorable Bid Day!
May you live long my friends, only with love and joy in your hearts!
Wedding Planer: Eleana Nicolaou
Wedding Dress: @BHLDN Weddings
Groom’s Attire: @Hugo Boss
Flowers + Design: @EDEM Flower Creations
Venue: @Hilton Cyprus
DJ: @Ilias Genios
Bar: @Lost + Found Drinkery


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The results show that the number-only calorie labels had the greatest impact on those who were the least health-conscious.
"That's good news, because this is exactly who the government is trying to reach with this information," Ellison said. "However, labels of any form so long as they are relatively easy to understand are likely to have the largest impact on less health-conscious diners because the information is new to these individuals."
For the highly health-conscious, adding the traffic light symbol to the existing calorie information further reduced the number of calories ordered.
"Calorie counts did provide the most health-conscious with additional information, but it was the symbol that really enhanced the information provided to these consumers," she said. "This is most likely because the symbol offered new information to these diners."
So if the government is looking for a policy that would help the largest possible demographic, adding a symbol to the calorie information might be a more effective way to influence food choices, Ellison says.
"A downside to the Affordable Care Act legislation as currently proposed is that it just provides a number," she said. "If we've learned anything about consumers, it's that people often operate under time constraints and are very convenience-oriented. Not every restaurant diner has time to read or even wants to read the number of calories listed for each menu item. Those decisions are often made quickly. For this reason, a symbol might be especially helpful in communicating with the broadest groups of consumers."
In 1980, 30 percent of meals were consumed outside of the home. Now it's about 40 percent, according to the paper. The proportion of food dollars spent outside the home has hovered between 46 and 49 percent since 2000, according to the Eco
|Contact: Phil Ciciora|
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign


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Abuelma’atti, M.T. (2004) Large signal analysis of the electroabsorption modulator. Information and Communication Technologies: From Theory to Applications, 2004. Proceedings. 2004 International conference, 1.
Large signal analysis of the electroabsorption modulator driven by a multisinusoidal RF signal is presented. The special case of a two-tone equal-amplitude RF signal is considered in detail, and the results are compared with previously published results.
|Divisions:||College Of Engineering Sciences > Electrical Engineering Dept|
|Deposited By:||KFUPM ePrints Admin|
|Deposited On:||24 Jun 2008 16:47|
|Last Modified:||12 Apr 2011 13:16|
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The Queensland Government is investing $700 million in four large-scale renewable energy projects, signing support deeds for three solar projects in Collinsville, Oakey and Longreach, and gaining approval for the environmental impact statement for the Coopers Gap wind farm.
The three solar projects include:
- Edify Energy’s 58MW megawatt Whitsunday Solar Farm is a $122 million project, and is expected to create 116 jobs during construction
- Canadian Solar’s 15MW megawatt Longreach Solar Farm is a $29 million project, and is expected to create 30 jobs during construction
- Canadian Solar’s 25MW megawatt Oakey Solar Farm is a $48 million project and is expected to create 50 Jobs during construction.
Queensland Premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, said the projects would create more than 500 construction jobs in regional Queensland.
“My Government is committed to ensuring the security of Queensland’s future energy needs through a mix of coal and gas fired power stations, along with a growing share for large-scale renewable energy projects,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“The confidence shown in Queensland’s renewable future by these leading energy companies, from overseas and interstate, shows that my government’s policy settings have created an environment ripe for serious and sustainable investment.
“These projects underline the vital role that regional Queensland is already playing in our transition to a renewable energy economy.”
Ms Palaszczuk, who will meet with AGL Chief Executive Officer, Andy Vesey, said the Coopers Gap wind farm was part of the Powering Australian Renewables Fund (PARF) between AGL, QIC and the federal government’s Future Fund.
The PARF is targeting the development of 1000MW of large-scale renewable energy projects.
Queensland Energy Minister, Mark Bailey, said signing the support deeds that secured long-term revenue certainty for each project meant proponents could now confirm investor funding and begin construction.
“The execution of these deeds locks in Queensland’s Solar 150 long-term commitment to these projects, guaranteeing financial security and enabling these projects to reach financial close,” Mr Bailey said.
“This confirmation of the Whitsunday, Oakey and Longreach solar projects’ inclusion in the state’s Solar 150 program provides a 20-year revenue guarantee, meaning financial contracts can now be delivered and construction can begin.
“These projects are a sign of the times for regional Queensland’s major role in shaping the state’s transition to a renewable energy economy, and during construction will bring 196 much-needed jobs to the regions.”
The Edify Energy Whitsunday Solar Farm, near Collinsville is a 58MW project worth $122 million. During construction it is expected to create 116 jobs.
Edify Energy Chief Executive, John Cole, said with the deed signing complete, he expected to finalise investment and begin construction in the near future.
“We look forward to the Whitsunday Solar Farm delivering clean green energy to the people of North Queensland and jobs to the Collinsville area,” Mr Cole said.
“The Queensland Government’s Solar 150 program, and the federal government’s ARENA large scale solar grant funding program had been instrumental in securing investment from our long term equity partner, Wirsol, to make the project a reality.
“We hope to build on the momentum the Whitsunday Solar Farm has provided to advance further projects in Queensland in very short order.”
Canadian Solar’s General Manager Daniel Ruoss said the $28 million, 15MW Longreach project would employ 30 people during construction, and its $48 million 25MW Oakey project would bring with it 50 construction jobs.
“Since 2014, Canadian Solar has been investing millions of dollars in Queensland for project developments and the company collaborates closely with local stakeholders to maximise the benefits for the local region and its communities,” Mr Ruoss said.
“We expect to begin construction on both projects in May 2017 and be grid connected in early 2018.
“The Oakey project will also have a second stage involving an additional 55MW commencing construction in the second half of 2017.
“We’ve chosen Queensland for our investment because of its world-class resources, great infrastructure and a forward looking government. Queensland is truly the Sunshine State.”
Mr Bailey said Canadian Solar and Edify Energy were major players in the international renewable industry.
“The belief in Queensland by these companies shows that Palaszczuk Government is providing a renewable energy policy that is ripe for investment,” Mr Bailey said.
“Upon completion, these projects will supply a combined 98MW of clean energy into the surrounding regions, bringing more generation capacity to the surrounding communities and industries.
“These projects also further secure Queensland’s place as a leader on the world’s solar energy stage. They’ll provide clean, renewable energy for our grid, and importantly jobs for our regions and the certainty that comes with them.”