Knowledge of how the brain works is in its relative infancy. It’s is the last frontier of the human body left to explore. While much has been discovered about the brain in a relatively short time, there is still so much more to learn about its 2,000 parts!
What is so tantalizing about the study of the brain is that it leads to a study of behaviour and our behaviour is influenced by the amazing chemistry lab in our brains and in every system of our bodies.
What we have recently discovered is that the brain is adaptable, flexible and has ‘plasticity’. We can re-circuit. We can lay new neurochemical pathways that influence our behaviour and thus the quality of our lives. We have the ability to change the picture!
The brain is actually a gland because ‘it secretes’. It secretes brain hormones called neurotransmitters. It produces and bathes itself in neurotransmitters. In fact neurotransmitters are found throughout the body! Another reason we cannot separate the brain from the body – or the mind from the body.
Here’s how it works: Our brains and bodies are responding, playing and taking action with the help of amazing brain systems that are flooding the body with messages via neurotransmitters. These chemical messages are influencing our behaviour and our choices and how we interact with our world.
Simultaneously, we receive thousands of messages every minute through our senses, affecting the delicate balance of the brain and body. At times it is a delicious dance. At other times, it is a tedious tug of war between reception and reaction, due to sensory perception and motor response, the input/output system.
Certain brain systems are involved in certain behaviours. By systems we can look at the relationship between the three parts of the limbic system or the emotional brain, as it is commonly known:
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the amygdala
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the hippocampus
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the cingulate gyrus
While we can identify which structures or systems are responsible for particular functions, we have to keep in mind that the various parts have overlapping functions; while a structure belongs to one system, it can also play a role in another! A wonderful example is the amygdala which is a part of the limbic brain which can also play a function in the lower or reptilian brain. While the amygdala is involved in emotion, it also serves to keep us alive by acting as an alert system (flight or flight response) hence its relationship to the reptilian brain.
What is key to understanding the brain, is that there are constant energy modulations affecting how the brain fires. These energy modulations play a role in our behaviour. For example, specific parts of our brain systems may be over-firing or under-firing, under-energized or over-energized. The brain may be micro managing or macro managing. Or may be in a state of over-activity or under-activity.
Even though some days it may seem as though the boss isn’t home, your brain and body are always giving you 100% even if it doesn’t look like it. However if, your brain is struggling then you will find struggles in your life be it mental, emotional, spiritual and physical.
The cingulate gyrus provides us with an excellent example of how our behavior modulates according to input and old circuitry. Dare I even digress and talk about circuitry for a moment?
We receive information from our senses and that information will either travel to the visual, auditory or sensory areas in the cortex, simultaneously.
It then travels to the parahippocampal gyrus, which is associated with memory, storing this information temporarily and comparing it with old information. The information then travels to the amygdala where we will have a certain feeling about the information.
From there it goes to the prefrontal cortex where we will decide what to do with the information. That information then returns to the amygdala where we may solidify that feeling and experience an emotion. That in turn translates to a response from the hypothalamus that gives a command to the pituitary to release hormones.
And thus the sensory information has traveled through many brain structures and elicited a motor, neurochemical and hormonal response. You have behaved in a certain way depending on what you just took in and what old memories you have about your experience of life!
So if we think of our circuitry, pathways of memory and learned experience, partnered with the idea that there are energy modulations in the brain, we can now look at the cingulate gyrus for examples of symptoms that correspond with energy out of balance in the brain.
We can now possibly look at the cingulate gyrus as the gear shifter. When the cingulate gyrus is in balance, we experience a sense of being relaxed and settled. We have cognitive flexibility, are able to adapt and shift, we are willing to cooperate and are able change our mind about something. We can ‘shift gears’.
When the cingulate gyrus is over-firing we get stuck in ineffective behaviourin jobs we don’t like, in relationships that don’t work and in states that don’t function. We partake in compulsive behaviour, over planning, oppositional defiance and feel constant anticipatory anxiety.
Conversely, when the cingulate gyrus is under firing, we can’t focus, and we hold on to old hurts for too long. Dysfunctions relating to the cingulate gyrus include headaches, grinding our teeth, feeling too serious and becoming too rigid in our thinking.
The question then becomes, how can we keep our brains in balance? How can we re-circuit old behaviour and thought patterns? What can we do?
Happily, there are many things we can do! Meditation is a great start. Meditation allows us to observe our thoughts and emotions and become aware of the landscape of our minds. Once we have awareness we have the ability to choose how we will respond to our environment. We can modulate our motor responses!
What scientists are also finding after examining the brains of monks and people, who have been meditating for years, is that the grey matter in their brains is actually thicker! It is in the grey matter that the brain integrates input and decides on output. The findings further state that having more grey matter actually makes us smarter!
Alongside meditation, we may be in need of an experienced facilitator that can act as a witness to our discoveries about our behaviours and states, and aid us with seeking options to the questions: What behaviour is not matching your desired state of mind? If you are not following your heart’s desire then what is stopping you? Even by posing the question we are creating the atmosphere in the brain to inspire the answer.
As with specific brain systems that can be over or under firing, neurotransmitters can also be under or over firing creating communication difficulties in the bodymind complex, which is then mirrored in our behaviours and choices. It may be that some part in our brain is busy over firing due to past experiences that are creating strong beliefs that are affecting our choices now.
Each day our senses are nurtured or bombarded with input depending on our circumstances. This input may be in or out of balance. We may be exposed to too much input, or not enough input. Conversely we may have a habit of expending too much output or not being able to put out.
All these modulations in our brains and bodies are affecting our behaviour and choices. But what is affecting our brain and body chemistry? The food we eat, the air we breath, the water we drink, the exercise we partake in, the spiritual practices we believe in, the thoughts we focus on, the life experiences we have, the perspectives we cultivate and the environment we live in, to name just a few of the myriad scenarios that are influencing our beautiful brain/body chemistries.
As soon as we take something in with our senses, as soon as we are made to think about something, as soon as we learn something new, as soon as we pose a question or imagine a new perspective, our brains are reacting neurochemically and laying down the pathways in our brain that creates the potential for something to shift in our lives.
Copyright 2007 Rita Bozi is a Calgary based Certified BodyTalk Practitioner with a private practice. For further information please go to www.brillianthealingsystems.com. This article was inspired by a recent course she took on Neuroanatomy and it’s Applications with Carol Anne Bickerstaff of Kinetic Education Network of Vancouver.
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Can Eyesight Improve Naturally?
A report issued on April 18 2007 by Prevent Blindness America estimates the costs associated with adult vision problems in the United States at a staggering $51.4 billion.
- According to Richard Wallingford, OD, president of the American Optometric Association (AOA), approximately 25 percent of all school aged children have vision problems.
- "Sixty percent of people aged 65 and over have cataracts nationwide, and that (percentage) increases with age" says John Ciccone, director of communications for the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery in Fairfax, VA.
These numbers are the tip of the iceberg, they don’t include the widespread cases of refractive problems such as nearsightedness and presbyopia, or common eye disorders such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. This is an indication of the enormity of the problem of vision deterioration. I’ve heard estimates that more than 80% of the population in the USA has vision problems. Our eyesight challenges seem to be getting worse, not better, despite well over 32,000 optometrists currently in practice in the United States alone (as per information on the AOA website). What is wrong with this picture?!?
Optometrists advise us to have regular, preferably annual, eye exams, so they can prescribe compensating lenses at the earliest sign of vision deterioration. However, the obvious tendency is for vision to get worse, not better, when glasses or contacts are worn. Glasses are a nuisance, contacts are not much better, and in general most users of compensating lenses are not satisfied with having to use these crutches for the rest of their lives. Out of despair people turn to laser operations in large numbers, while cataract sufferers wait for the ‘ripening’ of their cataracts so they can have lens replacement surgery.
Is there another option? Is there a natural approach to solving these many vision challenges? Is there a solution without associated risks or nasty side-effects?
Happily, the answer is a resounding YES. Dr William H Bates, MD, an ophthalmologist from New York (1860-1931), discovered that eye-strain is the major cause of vision deterioration and he set out to find the solution. He concluded that the tension on the muscles around the eyes could be released by simple relaxation techniques, and that applying these techniques resulted in a speedy return to clear vision for most people. His techniques are still taught today and are known as ‘The Bates Method’. The key to reducing the cost and number of vision problems IS available, and the side effects are pleasant: clearer vision, better color perception, increased depth perception, reduction or elimination of headaches, improved memory, and more.
Over the years, the Bates Method has been misunderstood and it is sometimes interpreted as a series of eye exercises. This is unfortunate, as the essence of the method has nothing to do with exercises; it is all about relaxation.
Attempting to cure eye strain with eye exercises is like trying to run a mile with strained calf muscles; it is likely to be counter-productive. The smarter idea is to release the strain on the muscles first, and if you then want to do exercises… well, go ahead, enjoy. You will notice however, that people with clear vision do not do eye exercises. They have no reason to. After releasing the eye strain, the vision clears up naturally, and there will be no need for eye exercises. In order to be healthy the eyes simply need to be used in a relaxed, effortless way, all day long.
Anyone who is dissatisfied with their current level of visual blur or who is frustrated with the need for compensating lenses will be happy to know that it is possible to return to clear vision naturally. The first step to reaching that goal is to become aware of how you currently use your eyes. Do you tend to squint or stare? Or do you effortlessly blink and let your eyes move freely? Do you tend to reach for sunglasses the moment you step outside or are your eyes comfortable with bright light? Squinting, staring and light sensitivity are indications of eye strain.
find a Bates method teacherRegular, easy blinking; eyes that happily move rapidly and freely; and the ability of the eyes to be comfortable in bright sunlight are signs of relaxed healthy vision. To go from strained vision habits to relaxed vision habits requires an awareness of how the eyes are used, and continually applying relaxed vision habits in place of the old strained habits. It is not possible to predict how long it will take to return to 20/20 or better vision, but the good news is that it usually takes much less time to return to clarity than it took to reach your current level of blurry vision!For guidance on how to return to a relaxed way of seeing, and to free yourself from the burden of glasses, contact lenses, or the risks of surgery, contact an experienced Bates Method teacher. You too can begin and enjoy your path to clarity.
Copyright Esther Joy van der Werf, 2007. Esther Joy van der Werf has been teaching Natural Eyesight Improvement since 2000. She is a certified teacher of the Bates Method. She improved her own eyesight from 20/50 to 20/20 in two weeks, and progressed to 20/15 in just a few months. Esther loves to help people regain good eyesight in a relaxed effortless way. Originally from The Netherlands, she has taught classes throughout the USA and in Europe. She currently lives in Joshua Tree, CA.
- According to Richard Wallingford, OD, president of the American Optometric Association (AOA), approximately 25 percent of all school aged children have vision problems.
- "Sixty percent of people aged 65 and over have cataracts nationwide, and that (percentage) increases with age" says John Ciccone, director of communications for the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery in Fairfax, VA.
These numbers are the tip of the iceberg, they don’t include the widespread cases of refractive problems such as nearsightedness and presbyopia, or common eye disorders such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. This is an indication of the enormity of the problem of vision deterioration. I’ve heard estimates that more than 80% of the population in the USA has vision problems. Our eyesight challenges seem to be getting worse, not better, despite well over 32,000 optometrists currently in practice in the United States alone (as per information on the AOA website). What is wrong with this picture?!?
Optometrists advise us to have regular, preferably annual, eye exams, so they can prescribe compensating lenses at the earliest sign of vision deterioration. However, the obvious tendency is for vision to get worse, not better, when glasses or contacts are worn. Glasses are a nuisance, contacts are not much better, and in general most users of compensating lenses are not satisfied with having to use these crutches for the rest of their lives. Out of despair people turn to laser operations in large numbers, while cataract sufferers wait for the ‘ripening’ of their cataracts so they can have lens replacement surgery.
Is there another option? Is there a natural approach to solving these many vision challenges? Is there a solution without associated risks or nasty side-effects?
Happily, the answer is a resounding YES. Dr William H Bates, MD, an ophthalmologist from New York (1860-1931), discovered that eye-strain is the major cause of vision deterioration and he set out to find the solution. He concluded that the tension on the muscles around the eyes could be released by simple relaxation techniques, and that applying these techniques resulted in a speedy return to clear vision for most people. His techniques are still taught today and are known as ‘The Bates Method’. The key to reducing the cost and number of vision problems IS available, and the side effects are pleasant: clearer vision, better color perception, increased depth perception, reduction or elimination of headaches, improved memory, and more.
Over the years, the Bates Method has been misunderstood and it is sometimes interpreted as a series of eye exercises. This is unfortunate, as the essence of the method has nothing to do with exercises; it is all about relaxation.
Attempting to cure eye strain with eye exercises is like trying to run a mile with strained calf muscles; it is likely to be counter-productive. The smarter idea is to release the strain on the muscles first, and if you then want to do exercises… well, go ahead, enjoy. You will notice however, that people with clear vision do not do eye exercises. They have no reason to. After releasing the eye strain, the vision clears up naturally, and there will be no need for eye exercises. In order to be healthy the eyes simply need to be used in a relaxed, effortless way, all day long.
Anyone who is dissatisfied with their current level of visual blur or who is frustrated with the need for compensating lenses will be happy to know that it is possible to return to clear vision naturally. The first step to reaching that goal is to become aware of how you currently use your eyes. Do you tend to squint or stare? Or do you effortlessly blink and let your eyes move freely? Do you tend to reach for sunglasses the moment you step outside or are your eyes comfortable with bright light? Squinting, staring and light sensitivity are indications of eye strain.
find a Bates method teacherRegular, easy blinking; eyes that happily move rapidly and freely; and the ability of the eyes to be comfortable in bright sunlight are signs of relaxed healthy vision. To go from strained vision habits to relaxed vision habits requires an awareness of how the eyes are used, and continually applying relaxed vision habits in place of the old strained habits. It is not possible to predict how long it will take to return to 20/20 or better vision, but the good news is that it usually takes much less time to return to clarity than it took to reach your current level of blurry vision!For guidance on how to return to a relaxed way of seeing, and to free yourself from the burden of glasses, contact lenses, or the risks of surgery, contact an experienced Bates Method teacher. You too can begin and enjoy your path to clarity.
Copyright Esther Joy van der Werf, 2007. Esther Joy van der Werf has been teaching Natural Eyesight Improvement since 2000. She is a certified teacher of the Bates Method. She improved her own eyesight from 20/50 to 20/20 in two weeks, and progressed to 20/15 in just a few months. Esther loves to help people regain good eyesight in a relaxed effortless way. Originally from The Netherlands, she has taught classes throughout the USA and in Europe. She currently lives in Joshua Tree, CA.
Enhancing Cancer Care for Boys
Google has over two million entries about complementary therapy in cancer care. It is encouraging to see so much interest in this topic. But the volume of material can seem overwhelming, and some of the websites give information which is misleading or incomplete. Enhancing Cancer Care: Complementary Therapy and Support, edited by me (Jennifer Barraclough) and published by Oxford University Press is an evidence-based practical guide to this complex and controversial field, with contributions by experts from around the world. The focus is on supportive care for patients and families, rather than alternative treatments for cancer.
By definition, complementary therapies are not considered part of standard medical practice, but can be used alongside it. They include a varied range of interventions which all share the general purpose of improving physical, mental and spiritual well-being through natural methods tailored to individual needs. They can help restore a sense of choice and control to those feeling disempowered by their illness and the high-tech methods used to treat it. There is now sound research evidence that complementary therapies, when skillfully used, can help to relieve symptoms of cancer and the side-effects of medical treatments, improve quality of life and perhaps even extend survival, as well as being pleasant to receive. But there is still much to learn, for example:
*
Which therapies work best for particular symptoms?
*
Is it alright to use them together with chemotherapy or radiotherapy?
*
What about service delivery and funding, and how far should they be integrated with conventional management?
*
Is there a need for tighter regulation?
Despite all the evidence in their favour, complementary therapies are not a panacea. If misused, they not only waste time and money but may cause emotional and physical harm, for ‘natural’ does not always mean ‘safe’.
Although mainstream healthcare professionals and complementary practitioners have become much more willing to work together in recent years, they sometimes operate on different ‘wavelengths’ which can lead to misunderstanding and controversy. As a former medical doctor who has also trained with the College of Healing and the Bach Centre I can appreciate both viewpoints, and hope this book will help to bridge the gap between them.
Part 1 has chapters about the principles of holistic healthcare, the evaluation of complementary therapies, experience of providing them in oncology units and hospices for adults and children, and the role of family doctors in guiding the choice of therapies and therapists.
Part 2 describes sixteen specific approaches, reviewing the evidence for their benefits, explaining what happens during consultation and treatment, and what adaptations of technique may be required for safe practice in the cancer care setting.
The text is illustrated by real-life stories. One man who had experienced counseling, art therapy, group support, guided imagery and visualization, nutritional advice and spiritual healing at the cancer help centre in Bristol, UK wrote that the approach
‘…enabled me to regain control over my health and well-being. It proved to be the catalyst for many changes in my life. There were things that I could do to help my body, mind and spirit and now was the time to do them!’
Copyright 2007 Jennifer Barraclough Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner, Auckland, New Zealand.
By definition, complementary therapies are not considered part of standard medical practice, but can be used alongside it. They include a varied range of interventions which all share the general purpose of improving physical, mental and spiritual well-being through natural methods tailored to individual needs. They can help restore a sense of choice and control to those feeling disempowered by their illness and the high-tech methods used to treat it. There is now sound research evidence that complementary therapies, when skillfully used, can help to relieve symptoms of cancer and the side-effects of medical treatments, improve quality of life and perhaps even extend survival, as well as being pleasant to receive. But there is still much to learn, for example:
*
Which therapies work best for particular symptoms?
*
Is it alright to use them together with chemotherapy or radiotherapy?
*
What about service delivery and funding, and how far should they be integrated with conventional management?
*
Is there a need for tighter regulation?
Despite all the evidence in their favour, complementary therapies are not a panacea. If misused, they not only waste time and money but may cause emotional and physical harm, for ‘natural’ does not always mean ‘safe’.
Although mainstream healthcare professionals and complementary practitioners have become much more willing to work together in recent years, they sometimes operate on different ‘wavelengths’ which can lead to misunderstanding and controversy. As a former medical doctor who has also trained with the College of Healing and the Bach Centre I can appreciate both viewpoints, and hope this book will help to bridge the gap between them.
Part 1 has chapters about the principles of holistic healthcare, the evaluation of complementary therapies, experience of providing them in oncology units and hospices for adults and children, and the role of family doctors in guiding the choice of therapies and therapists.
Part 2 describes sixteen specific approaches, reviewing the evidence for their benefits, explaining what happens during consultation and treatment, and what adaptations of technique may be required for safe practice in the cancer care setting.
The text is illustrated by real-life stories. One man who had experienced counseling, art therapy, group support, guided imagery and visualization, nutritional advice and spiritual healing at the cancer help centre in Bristol, UK wrote that the approach
‘…enabled me to regain control over my health and well-being. It proved to be the catalyst for many changes in my life. There were things that I could do to help my body, mind and spirit and now was the time to do them!’
Copyright 2007 Jennifer Barraclough Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner, Auckland, New Zealand.
HDR-CX camrecorder by SONY
Sony has announced the release of three new models of camcorders that are smaller, lighter and smarter compared to the former stars of Sony. In the picture you can see the HDR-CX model, Sony’s first flash-based HD camcorder. Sony proclaims this model as “the smallest and lightest AVCHD HD camcorder” available now on the market. It can record up to 30 minutes of high quality 1080i video on its 4 GB Pro Duo Memory Stick. You can buy it for 1200$, which is a definite competitor price for Panasonic and their line of HDC cameras.
The other models Sony released are SR5 and SR7. Both cameras provide with a 2.7 inch LCD screen on which you can admire the videos you are taking. You can also look at a thing from a closer angle from now on, thanks to their 10x optical zoom. The SR5 has memory of 40 GB and can shoot up to five hours of 1080i HD AVCHD video. In this chapter, the SR7 gives it a lesson with its 60 GB of internal memory and the ability of shooting up to 14 hours of 1080i video. You can buy the SR5 model for 1100$ and the SR& for 1400$.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Yin and yang in thier movie:The Forbidden Kingdom.
Whether or not Jackie Chan and Jet Li oppose or compliment each other in the latest Hollywood flick The Forbidden Kingdom, audiences seem to be lapping up all the action.
The massive hype about The Forbidden Kingdom revolves around it being the first movie collaboration between the two biggest Asian screen martial arts exponents, Jet Li and Jackie Chan. With a working title like The J & J Project, and having Yuen Wo-Ping as action director and Peter Pau as director of photography, the movie promised lots of sparks as the two legends go head-to-head for the first time.
In a recent report by LAT-WP, the Lionsgate Films and Weinstein Co release directed by Rob Minkoff that paired Li and Chan for the first time, topped the weekend box office in the United States with an estimated US$20.9mil (RM65.7mil) in ticket sales.
Financed at an estimated US$75mil (RM236mil) by Relativity Media along with Weinstein and Lionsgate, the martial arts adventure skewed male but attracted an age balance. The audience was 58% male and 54% under 25, Lionsgate said.
In a recent report by LAT-WP, the Lionsgate Films and Weinstein Co release directed by Rob Minkoff that paired Li and Chan for the first time, topped the weekend box office in the United States with an estimated US$20.9mil (RM65.7mil) in ticket sales.
Financed at an estimated US$75mil (RM236mil) by Relativity Media along with Weinstein and Lionsgate, the martial arts adventure skewed male but attracted an age balance. The audience was 58% male and 54% under 25, Lionsgate said.
Chan turned 54 early this month and Li will be 45 this weekend. Together their ages add up to 99 so they really couldn’t wait any longer for their first on-screen pairing. And though they’ve known each other for over 20 years, opportunities to work together had not materialised before.
Their first opportunity came 15 years ago when they both filmed for the same company, Golden Harvest, but plans fell through due to political issues and distribution problems. A second opportunity came seven to eight years ago in Hollywood but, again, things did not work out. This time around, both are glad everything worked out fine.
Prior to the press conference, it was reported that in earlier interviews, both Chan and Li had advised audiences not to expect too much from The Forbidden Kingdom.
Their first opportunity came 15 years ago when they both filmed for the same company, Golden Harvest, but plans fell through due to political issues and distribution problems. A second opportunity came seven to eight years ago in Hollywood but, again, things did not work out. This time around, both are glad everything worked out fine.
Prior to the press conference, it was reported that in earlier interviews, both Chan and Li had advised audiences not to expect too much from The Forbidden Kingdom.
Li started studying Chinese martial arts when he was eight, and trained with the Beijing wushu team. He won his first national wushu championship when he was 11, and has since gone on to win a string of championships; he has been declared a National Treasure by the Chinese Government.
Chan was apprenticed to the Chinese Drama Academy, a Peking Opera School, where he excelled in martial arts and acrobatics since he was six. He joined Seven Little Fortunes, a performance group, and made his first movie appearance at the age of eight.
Playing two characters each in The Forbidden Kingdom, both appeared to have had quite a lot of fun making the movie.
Chan was apprenticed to the Chinese Drama Academy, a Peking Opera School, where he excelled in martial arts and acrobatics since he was six. He joined Seven Little Fortunes, a performance group, and made his first movie appearance at the age of eight.
Playing two characters each in The Forbidden Kingdom, both appeared to have had quite a lot of fun making the movie.
Before You Slather on That Bottle Tan...
1. Exfoliate in the shower before self-tanner application, otherwise the tanner will stick to your dead skin and make you appear mottled, splotched and a perfect example of a self-tanning "don't."
2. Moisturize knees, elbows and creases or risk having self-tanner settle into creases.
3. If you are fair-skinned, do not kid yourself into buying the darkest tanning solution on the shelf. Leave the extra-strength solution for the olive-skinned girls.
4. Test the shade out on an arm first. A discolored patch of arm is much easier to hide than an entire body.
5. Invest in a good self-tanner (I like Clarins). In the case of self-tanners, remember: cheap can reak.
6. If you are as pale as a whale's belly, mix in a few drops of moisturizer to your self-tanner before applying to face. This dillutes it just a bit.
7. Let the stuff dry the allotted time on the bottle. Some tanners will rub off on clothes and wash out in a shower.
8. Remember: If you can smell yourself, you know others can really smell you. If you are tanning for a date, consider applying the tanner a day before the event so you can shower first.
2. Moisturize knees, elbows and creases or risk having self-tanner settle into creases.
3. If you are fair-skinned, do not kid yourself into buying the darkest tanning solution on the shelf. Leave the extra-strength solution for the olive-skinned girls.
4. Test the shade out on an arm first. A discolored patch of arm is much easier to hide than an entire body.
5. Invest in a good self-tanner (I like Clarins). In the case of self-tanners, remember: cheap can reak.
6. If you are as pale as a whale's belly, mix in a few drops of moisturizer to your self-tanner before applying to face. This dillutes it just a bit.
7. Let the stuff dry the allotted time on the bottle. Some tanners will rub off on clothes and wash out in a shower.
8. Remember: If you can smell yourself, you know others can really smell you. If you are tanning for a date, consider applying the tanner a day before the event so you can shower first.
Why Sleeping is (Almost) More Important Than Breathing
Try these tips to help relax before you hit the sack:
Unplug
Avoid having long conversations on your cell phone before bed: Researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit found that people who were exposed to the slight radiation that emanates from cell phones took longer to fall asleep and spent less time in the deep stages of slumber.
Avoid having long conversations on your cell phone before bed: Researchers at Wayne State University in Detroit found that people who were exposed to the slight radiation that emanates from cell phones took longer to fall asleep and spent less time in the deep stages of slumber.
Make Your Bedroom a Haven
Draw the blinds and turn on a fan or a soothing CD of nature noises to block out distracting sounds. Swapping ordinary bedroom bulbs for yellow ones (GE makes a 25-watt version sold at drugstores) can help you feel more tranquil as you're getting ready to nod off. Consider treating yourself to a cozy new comforter or putting flowers on your nightstand so that being in your bedroom—and sleeping!—becomes something you look forward to.
Say Thanks
Once you're under the covers, take two minutes to reflect on the things you're grateful for. Studies show that practicing grateful thinking makes people more optimistic. And going to sleep with happy thoughts will help you sleep more soundly.
Friday, April 18, 2008
Summer Dress Suggestions
Summertime is the season when you can feel comfortable showing a bit more skin. When it comes to dresses, there are many choices available to you. The kind of dresses you choose to wear this summer will depend on where you are headed and your individual style. Here are some tips to look your best this summer and beat the heat at the same time!
Summer Party Dresses
If you're going to a party, then try something flirty and fun. Why not try a knee-length dress in a silk or satin fabric with a little movement and flounce in the skirt? For something a little sexier, go with a minidress in a form fitting fabric that features a bit of stretch. In summer, pantyhose are optional, especially when it comes to party wear. If your legs are nice and bronzed, then simply mist with dry oil or try one of the new moisturizers that feature fine shimmer. For quick summer color, use a sunless tanning product. Just be sure to shave and exfoliate first to avoid dark patches.
Summer Dresses for Work
For work, try a skirt and blazer in a light summery fabric with a silk chemise or shell underneath. Depending on your office dress code, you may or may not want to wear pantyhose. Heels are always a good choice for work, while sandals should be avoided in a traditional office environment. For your work dresses and suits, try light summery colors like white, beige, and pale pastels.
Formal Dresses for Summer
Going to a formal event? Why not go for a long sheath dress in a vibrant, warm color like red? With such an eye-catching shade, keep jewelry to a minimum and makeup soft and natural. Or, try a feminine and flirty gown in a summery color like butter yellow or pale pink. Tulle, silk, satin and lace are all popular fabrics for formal summer dresses.
Casual Summer Dresses
For a feminine, casual look, try a white cotton dress accentuated with eyelet. Or, go with a pretty floral pattern and comfortable sandals. Sundresses are flexible and can carry you through your day in style and comfort. For a flirty retro look, go with a black or red sundress adorned with small white polka dots.
Summer is a time when you can be adventurous with your fashion choices. Flaunt your femininity this summer one of the cute dresses adorning the racks in today's boutiques and stores. You'll feel confident, cool and comfortable -- and isn't that what summer is all about?
Summer Party Dresses
If you're going to a party, then try something flirty and fun. Why not try a knee-length dress in a silk or satin fabric with a little movement and flounce in the skirt? For something a little sexier, go with a minidress in a form fitting fabric that features a bit of stretch. In summer, pantyhose are optional, especially when it comes to party wear. If your legs are nice and bronzed, then simply mist with dry oil or try one of the new moisturizers that feature fine shimmer. For quick summer color, use a sunless tanning product. Just be sure to shave and exfoliate first to avoid dark patches.
Summer Dresses for Work
For work, try a skirt and blazer in a light summery fabric with a silk chemise or shell underneath. Depending on your office dress code, you may or may not want to wear pantyhose. Heels are always a good choice for work, while sandals should be avoided in a traditional office environment. For your work dresses and suits, try light summery colors like white, beige, and pale pastels.
Formal Dresses for Summer
Going to a formal event? Why not go for a long sheath dress in a vibrant, warm color like red? With such an eye-catching shade, keep jewelry to a minimum and makeup soft and natural. Or, try a feminine and flirty gown in a summery color like butter yellow or pale pink. Tulle, silk, satin and lace are all popular fabrics for formal summer dresses.
Casual Summer Dresses
For a feminine, casual look, try a white cotton dress accentuated with eyelet. Or, go with a pretty floral pattern and comfortable sandals. Sundresses are flexible and can carry you through your day in style and comfort. For a flirty retro look, go with a black or red sundress adorned with small white polka dots.
Summer is a time when you can be adventurous with your fashion choices. Flaunt your femininity this summer one of the cute dresses adorning the racks in today's boutiques and stores. You'll feel confident, cool and comfortable -- and isn't that what summer is all about?
Heavy drinkers, smokers early victims of Alzheimer’s
Washington, April 17 (IANS) Heavy drinkers and smokers develop Alzheimer’s disease years earlier than those who stay away from alcohol and tobacco, according to a study.The study looked at 938 people aged 60 or above who were diagnosed with possible or probable Alzheimer’s disease.
Researchers gathered information from family members on drinking and smoking history and determined whether the participants had the a4 gene variant of the APOE gene, which increases the risk of Alzheimer’s.
People with the a4 variant also develop Alzheimer’s at an earlier age than those who do not have the gene variant.
Seven percent of the study participants had a history of heavy drinking, which was defined as more than two drinks per day.
Twenty percent had a history of heavy smoking, which was defined as smoking one pack of cigarettes or more per day, and 27 percent had the APOE a4 variant.
Researchers found that people who were heavy drinkers developed Alzheimer’s 4.8 years earlier than those who were not heavy drinkers.
Heavy smokers developed the disease 2.3 years sooner than people who were not heavy smokers. People with APOE a4 developed the disease three years sooner than those without the gene variant.
“These results are significant because it’s possible that if we can reduce or eliminate heavy smoking and drinking, we could substantially delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease for people and reduce the number of people who have Alzheimer’s at any point in time,” said study author Ranjan Duara, of Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami.
Researchers gathered information from family members on drinking and smoking history and determined whether the participants had the a4 gene variant of the APOE gene, which increases the risk of Alzheimer’s.
People with the a4 variant also develop Alzheimer’s at an earlier age than those who do not have the gene variant.
Seven percent of the study participants had a history of heavy drinking, which was defined as more than two drinks per day.
Twenty percent had a history of heavy smoking, which was defined as smoking one pack of cigarettes or more per day, and 27 percent had the APOE a4 variant.
Researchers found that people who were heavy drinkers developed Alzheimer’s 4.8 years earlier than those who were not heavy drinkers.
Heavy smokers developed the disease 2.3 years sooner than people who were not heavy smokers. People with APOE a4 developed the disease three years sooner than those without the gene variant.
“These results are significant because it’s possible that if we can reduce or eliminate heavy smoking and drinking, we could substantially delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease for people and reduce the number of people who have Alzheimer’s at any point in time,” said study author Ranjan Duara, of Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami.
`American Idol’ cuts another finalist
NEW YORK (AP) — The praise of Mariah Carey couldn’t rescue Kristy Lee Cook from elimination on “American Idol.” The 24-year-old resident country singer from Selma, Ore., was the latest casualty as the Fox sing-off narrowed the competition to six finalists.
Though guest mentor Carey said Cook’s rendition of “Forever” gave her chills, Simon Cowell was not so impressed.
Brooke White and Syesha Mercado joined Cook with the lowest number of votes on Wednesday’s results show. When asked to predict the loser, Cowell said: “Maybe Kristy - you know, your time’s up this time, sweetheart.”
Cook cried but took the eviction in stride. She directed her reprisal of “Forever” to Cowell, who grinned awkwardly.
The telecast also featured performances by “Idol” also-ran Elliott Yamin and Carey, who sang “Bye Bye” from her new album “EMC2.”
Hollywood Artist:Riya Sen
Riya Sen is the grand daughter of Suchitra Sen, a legend in Bengali cinema, and daughter of Moonmoon Sen, a former actress. Before moving to Mumbai, she lived with her parents and sister Raima Sen, also an actress, in Kolkata. Her father Bharat Dev Varma belongs to the illustrious royal family of Tripura. Her paternal grandmother Ila Devi, was the princess of Cooch Behar, whose younger sister Gayatri Devi is the Maharani of Jaipur.
Before entering show business, she studied at Loreto House and Rani Birla College, both in Kolkata, but dropped out of both institutions.She also briefly studied at the National Institute of Fashion Technology. Since her Bollywood debut, she has moved from Kolkata to Juhu in Mumbai.
Many have commented on the strong resemblence between her and her mother, Moonmoon Sen, a sex symbol in her time. However, her sister Raima has a very different image from them both.
Before entering show business, she studied at Loreto House and Rani Birla College, both in Kolkata, but dropped out of both institutions.She also briefly studied at the National Institute of Fashion Technology. Since her Bollywood debut, she has moved from Kolkata to Juhu in Mumbai.
Many have commented on the strong resemblence between her and her mother, Moonmoon Sen, a sex symbol in her time. However, her sister Raima has a very different image from them both.
Acting
Riya Sen first appeared as a child artiste in the film Vishkanya, where she played the role of the young Pooja Bedi. At the age of 15 she was cast in a major role in Bharathiraaja’s Tamil film Tajmahal. Her Bollywood film debut was supposed to have been in Love You Hamesha, opposite Akshaye Khanna, but the film was stalled and she ultimately made her debut in N. Chandra’s low-budget comedy Style.
Though Style met with success at the box office, most of her other films have not done as well. An exception was Jhankaar Beats, another comedy in which she co-starred with Shayan Munshi, Juhi Chawla, Rahul Bose, Rinke Khanna and Sanjay Suri. Most of her appearances have been item numbers and cameos. Her few leading roles have been in low-budget films
Riya has also appeared in Bengali,Tamil, Telegu, Malayalam and even English films. She was slated to appear in Anjan Dutta’s The Bong Connection, with her sister, but was eventually dropped from the project. She was replaced by Peeya Rai Chaudhary. It would have been the second time the two sisters acted together, after director Ajai Sinha’s The Bachelor. She has also appeared in a Bangladeshi film, titled Money Porey Tomakey. Her most notable South Indian film to date has been director Santhosh Sivan’s Ananthabhadram, which was also the director’s first Malayalam venture.
Riya Sen first appeared as a child artiste in the film Vishkanya, where she played the role of the young Pooja Bedi. At the age of 15 she was cast in a major role in Bharathiraaja’s Tamil film Tajmahal. Her Bollywood film debut was supposed to have been in Love You Hamesha, opposite Akshaye Khanna, but the film was stalled and she ultimately made her debut in N. Chandra’s low-budget comedy Style.
Though Style met with success at the box office, most of her other films have not done as well. An exception was Jhankaar Beats, another comedy in which she co-starred with Shayan Munshi, Juhi Chawla, Rahul Bose, Rinke Khanna and Sanjay Suri. Most of her appearances have been item numbers and cameos. Her few leading roles have been in low-budget films
Riya has also appeared in Bengali,Tamil, Telegu, Malayalam and even English films. She was slated to appear in Anjan Dutta’s The Bong Connection, with her sister, but was eventually dropped from the project. She was replaced by Peeya Rai Chaudhary. It would have been the second time the two sisters acted together, after director Ajai Sinha’s The Bachelor. She has also appeared in a Bangladeshi film, titled Money Porey Tomakey. Her most notable South Indian film to date has been director Santhosh Sivan’s Ananthabhadram, which was also the director’s first Malayalam venture.
Modeling
Riya Sen in a featured picture in Dabboo Ratnani’s 2005 CalendarRiya became a popular model when she appeared in numerous music videos for songs by popular singers, including Asha Bhonsle, Falguni Pathak, Jagjit Singh and Sonu Nigam. She was one of many Bollywood stars who appeared in Haath Se Haath Mila an anti-HIV/AIDS music video.
She is also an advertising model. A high point of her modeling career was when she replaced Lisa Ray as the Lakmé Girl. She herself has since been replaced by Yana Gupta. Her other notable assignments include Colgate, Limca, Vatika, Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate, and Margarita King.
Riya has appeared on the cover of a number of magazines. In 2004, she was featured partially nude in leading Indian photographer Dabboo Ratnani’s annual calendar, which is a major happening in the Indian glamor industry. In Daboo’s words, “Her mother saw it much later, after the calendar released. She thought it was too sexy, and Riya shouldn’t have done it. But the response to the photograph was superb. Riya was so thrilled that for her next ad campaign, she asked me to light her up like I did in this.” She is the only female face to be featured on the calendar on four consecutive years (2004-2007).
She is also an advertising model. A high point of her modeling career was when she replaced Lisa Ray as the Lakmé Girl. She herself has since been replaced by Yana Gupta. Her other notable assignments include Colgate, Limca, Vatika, Cadbury Dairy Milk Chocolate, and Margarita King.
Riya has appeared on the cover of a number of magazines. In 2004, she was featured partially nude in leading Indian photographer Dabboo Ratnani’s annual calendar, which is a major happening in the Indian glamor industry. In Daboo’s words, “Her mother saw it much later, after the calendar released. She thought it was too sexy, and Riya shouldn’t have done it. But the response to the photograph was superb. Riya was so thrilled that for her next ad campaign, she asked me to light her up like I did in this.” She is the only female face to be featured on the calendar on four consecutive years (2004-2007).
Jordin Sparks
Jordin Sparks is a 17-year-old American Idol phenom from Phoenix who now hails from Seattle, Washington. Ms. Jordin Sparks was highly complimented by the TV show's Simon Cowell who said, when they were down to their final seven, that Jordin may actually win the competition. Not bad for someone who is still in high school and struggling through math class just like millions of other kids in this country.But, Jordin Sparks isn't like any other kid in this country as she's one of the top contestants in American Idol and one of the few, by her own admission, without any formal training in singing. Of course, add her uniquely spelled first name and Ms. Sparks has spellbound more than a few with her renditions of "A Broken Wing" and "Reflection".
In one of the final weeks, Mr. Sparks let the sparks fly with her red hot performance of "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You". Singing since she was just 18 months old, Jordin has practiced her vocals in the past by doing funny accents and impersonations.
A self-admitted sports fanatic, Jordin Sparks looks up to Indianapolis Colts' and Super Bowl winner Tony Dungy for his ability to overcome personal tragedy in a public forum and preserve to overcome that and achieve his profession's highest prize. Ms. Sparks also likes to watch Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns holding court or Tiki Barber of the New York Giants running for records.
While the other 17-year-old on American Idol, Sanjaya Malakar, was finally let go in spite of a popular following and Howard Stern "anti-vote", Jordin Sparks has stood tall representing teens nationwide and gaining the attention of the remaining older and more experienced contestants.
If one thing can be said of Ms. Jordin Sparks it's that she's no shrinking violet. In 2004, Ms. Sparks appeared in the America's Most Talented Kids competition, winning it on her first try. She also came in second in the national Music in the Rockies competition for Christian musical artists.
Jordin Sparks has also, at a very young age, experienced a career as a plus-size model. She was the winner in the Torrid "Next Plus Size Model" search.
By her track record in TV, music and modeling while still in high school, not only is Jordin Sparks a winner, but also a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry for years to come. American Idol has launched many careers and Jordin Sparks is bound for one that is stellar, full of surprises and assuredly entertaining.
On Tuesday, May 22, 2007, Jordin Sparks "blew it out the box" as Randy would say. Jordin started off strong even in the face of Blake's showmanship. Then she dominated the last two songs "A Broken Wing" and "This Is My Now," which got a rave review from Simon, saying that Jordin "wiped the floor" with Blake. The song This Is My Now was the winning entry in the American Idol Songwriter competition and seemed perfectly suited for the powerful vocals of Jordin Sparks and her style of singing.
On the evening of May 23, 2007, American Idol and the U. S. voters have declared Jordin Sparks the winner of the most popular singing competition ever. With her three outstanding performances on March 22, Jordin Sparks was able to beat out that beatboxing guy from Seattle to secure her place in history as the youngest contestant ever to win the grand prize. Kudos to Jordin for her stellar performances!
In one of the final weeks, Mr. Sparks let the sparks fly with her red hot performance of "Rhythm Is Gonna Get You". Singing since she was just 18 months old, Jordin has practiced her vocals in the past by doing funny accents and impersonations.
A self-admitted sports fanatic, Jordin Sparks looks up to Indianapolis Colts' and Super Bowl winner Tony Dungy for his ability to overcome personal tragedy in a public forum and preserve to overcome that and achieve his profession's highest prize. Ms. Sparks also likes to watch Steve Nash of the Phoenix Suns holding court or Tiki Barber of the New York Giants running for records.
While the other 17-year-old on American Idol, Sanjaya Malakar, was finally let go in spite of a popular following and Howard Stern "anti-vote", Jordin Sparks has stood tall representing teens nationwide and gaining the attention of the remaining older and more experienced contestants.
If one thing can be said of Ms. Jordin Sparks it's that she's no shrinking violet. In 2004, Ms. Sparks appeared in the America's Most Talented Kids competition, winning it on her first try. She also came in second in the national Music in the Rockies competition for Christian musical artists.
Jordin Sparks has also, at a very young age, experienced a career as a plus-size model. She was the winner in the Torrid "Next Plus Size Model" search.
By her track record in TV, music and modeling while still in high school, not only is Jordin Sparks a winner, but also a force to be reckoned with in the entertainment industry for years to come. American Idol has launched many careers and Jordin Sparks is bound for one that is stellar, full of surprises and assuredly entertaining.
On Tuesday, May 22, 2007, Jordin Sparks "blew it out the box" as Randy would say. Jordin started off strong even in the face of Blake's showmanship. Then she dominated the last two songs "A Broken Wing" and "This Is My Now," which got a rave review from Simon, saying that Jordin "wiped the floor" with Blake. The song This Is My Now was the winning entry in the American Idol Songwriter competition and seemed perfectly suited for the powerful vocals of Jordin Sparks and her style of singing.
On the evening of May 23, 2007, American Idol and the U. S. voters have declared Jordin Sparks the winner of the most popular singing competition ever. With her three outstanding performances on March 22, Jordin Sparks was able to beat out that beatboxing guy from Seattle to secure her place in history as the youngest contestant ever to win the grand prize. Kudos to Jordin for her stellar performances!
Horoscope for today
Aries
Dithery influences will tend to hold you back today: it’s not a question of getting it wrong; it’s more a question of thinking that you’ve got it wrong. It is possible that someone close will be quite thorny, just at the point where you’ll feel obliged to keep the peace. Don’t tie yourself in knots!
Taurus
Negative influences are likely to cause a certain amount of strain. There seems to be definite tension between what you want and someone else’s expectations, and the solution requires a little give-and-take on both sides. If you show willing, perhaps the other person will too!
Gemini
You’ll be eager to make changes to your personal life today. Unfortunately work or school may still demand your undivided attention. What you deem as a worthy or useful cause may actually be too time-consuming to start at the moment. Don’t take on more than you can handle!
Cancer
If you feel as though someone is trying to take a little too much control over your life, then blame the pesky planets. Someone’s pushiness could manifest as bossiness; as unhelpful advice on fashion, or even as downright nagging to improve your job prospects. Ride it out; it will pass!
Leo
Cash matters improve dramatically today, but don’t rush off to spend it yet: use today’s energies to finish off any outstanding chores or assignments. Clear your in-tray; don’t leave anything for tomorrow, if you can help it, because tomorrow’s planets will be distracting to say the least!
Virgo
Minor influences put you in a conservative mood today, and while someone close to you may want to talk about some intense emotional issues, you will feel the need to keep your own feelings to yourself. This will actually be very helpful: your listening skills will be fine-tuned enough to pick up the nubof the problem!
Libra
The planets have generated quite a lot of activity and things to think about for you over the past few days, but today you’re being urged to take it easy! A rather obstructive aspect from the moon suggests that today will feel like an uphill struggle, so if you can cut any corners do so!
Scorpio
Your mood is likely to dip today for no other reason than unhelpful planetary influences, and you could end up feeling rather listless and aimless. However, having a definite focal point will ease the stress; work will redirect your energies in a positive way; jotting down your thoughts will help to alleviate any negativity!
Sagittarius
The lure of the mall is likely to dominate your thoughts today. Maybe you want to revamp your image; perhaps the idea of a whole new wardrobe attracts you more. Whichever appeals the most make sure that you seek the advice of a trusted friend or two and keep an eye on your spending!
Capricorn
A tendency to be a little narrow-minded might act as an unnecessary block to what could be a pretty wonderful day. While your platonic relationships are very well aspected, there’s a definite need to be more flexible and more relaxed in your approach to romance in general!
Aquarius
Money matters improve today. You should also find that a burst of positive energy helps you to isolate and pinpoint something that’s been making you feel a little tense recently. If you feel that someone isn’t showing enough appreciation today is the day to say something!
Pisces
Romance is looking fantastic today whether you’re single or attached. Unfortunately a certain minor influence is likely to make cash matters a little trickier. Appearing stylish and chic is important, but opting for a look that won’t break the bank will make you feel a whole lot more relaxed!
Dithery influences will tend to hold you back today: it’s not a question of getting it wrong; it’s more a question of thinking that you’ve got it wrong. It is possible that someone close will be quite thorny, just at the point where you’ll feel obliged to keep the peace. Don’t tie yourself in knots!
Taurus
Negative influences are likely to cause a certain amount of strain. There seems to be definite tension between what you want and someone else’s expectations, and the solution requires a little give-and-take on both sides. If you show willing, perhaps the other person will too!
Gemini
You’ll be eager to make changes to your personal life today. Unfortunately work or school may still demand your undivided attention. What you deem as a worthy or useful cause may actually be too time-consuming to start at the moment. Don’t take on more than you can handle!
Cancer
If you feel as though someone is trying to take a little too much control over your life, then blame the pesky planets. Someone’s pushiness could manifest as bossiness; as unhelpful advice on fashion, or even as downright nagging to improve your job prospects. Ride it out; it will pass!
Leo
Cash matters improve dramatically today, but don’t rush off to spend it yet: use today’s energies to finish off any outstanding chores or assignments. Clear your in-tray; don’t leave anything for tomorrow, if you can help it, because tomorrow’s planets will be distracting to say the least!
Virgo
Minor influences put you in a conservative mood today, and while someone close to you may want to talk about some intense emotional issues, you will feel the need to keep your own feelings to yourself. This will actually be very helpful: your listening skills will be fine-tuned enough to pick up the nubof the problem!
Libra
The planets have generated quite a lot of activity and things to think about for you over the past few days, but today you’re being urged to take it easy! A rather obstructive aspect from the moon suggests that today will feel like an uphill struggle, so if you can cut any corners do so!
Scorpio
Your mood is likely to dip today for no other reason than unhelpful planetary influences, and you could end up feeling rather listless and aimless. However, having a definite focal point will ease the stress; work will redirect your energies in a positive way; jotting down your thoughts will help to alleviate any negativity!
Sagittarius
The lure of the mall is likely to dominate your thoughts today. Maybe you want to revamp your image; perhaps the idea of a whole new wardrobe attracts you more. Whichever appeals the most make sure that you seek the advice of a trusted friend or two and keep an eye on your spending!
Capricorn
A tendency to be a little narrow-minded might act as an unnecessary block to what could be a pretty wonderful day. While your platonic relationships are very well aspected, there’s a definite need to be more flexible and more relaxed in your approach to romance in general!
Aquarius
Money matters improve today. You should also find that a burst of positive energy helps you to isolate and pinpoint something that’s been making you feel a little tense recently. If you feel that someone isn’t showing enough appreciation today is the day to say something!
Pisces
Romance is looking fantastic today whether you’re single or attached. Unfortunately a certain minor influence is likely to make cash matters a little trickier. Appearing stylish and chic is important, but opting for a look that won’t break the bank will make you feel a whole lot more relaxed!
Philippines president declares emergency
MANILA (AP) — President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared a state of emergency Friday, saying she had quashed a coup plot but that the Philippines still faced a "clear threat" from treasonous forces. Presidential security guards set up checkpoints around the presidential palace in Manila. By Rico Gonzales, AFP/Getty Images
Clashes erupted as riot police used water cannons to disperse about 5,000 protesters defying a ban on rallying at a shrine to the 1986 revolt that toppled dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Police then used truncheons and shields to roust a stone-throwing group trying to gather for a second protest. Several people were arrested; others were left bloodied.
Amid a massive security clampdown, the military barricaded its camps to keep troops from joining the demonstrations and detained an army general allegedly involved in the takeover plot. The military has played major roles in two popular uprisings and has a recent history of restiveness.
While she vowed she was in control, Arroyo clearly was worried about events getting out of control as her opponents tried to hijack events surrounding the 20th anniversary of the revolt against Marcos.
The commemorations were canceled, presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye told a news conference, adding that the military has been ordered "to prevent and suppress lawless violence."
Many Filipinos see the four-day "people power" revolt on Feb. 25, 1986, as their country's proudest moment.
Arroyo, who survived two earlier coup attempts, said her action was the result of ongoing efforts by the political opposition, along with both the extreme left and the extreme right, to bring down the elected government.
"I am declaring a state of emergency because of the clear threat to the nation," a defiant Arroyo said in a taped, nationally televised statement.
"This is my warning against those who threaten the government: the whole weight of the law will fall on your treason."
Appealing for calm, she claimed the military had quashed a coup plot by some military officers and their men. The military has played strong roles in the two "people power" revolts and has a recent history of restiveness.
"There were a few who tried to break from the armed forces chain of command, to fight the civilian government and establish a regime outside the constitution," Arroyo said. "We crushed this attempt."
She stopped short of declaring martial law, a sensitive issue as Marcosused it to rule by decree.
Her chief of staff said the declaration will not include a curfew but bans rallies, allows arrest without a warrant, permits the president to call in the military to intervene and lets her take over facilities — including media outlets — that may affect national security.
In Washington, the State Department said it was monitoring the situation. "We firmly support the rule of law and constitutional government. Violence should be avoided," spokeswoman Janelle Hironimus said.
The opposition said the declaration showed the government's desperation.
"It could result in more political hemorrhage and security risk," said Rep. Roilo Golez, Arroyo's former national security adviser who withdrew support from her. "This could get out of control.
Rep. Teodoro Casino, a leftist leader, called the declaration "draconian" and said the government was headed toward "iron-handed rule." He said anti-Arroyo protests won't end.
The Philippine stock market and the peso both plunged after the declaration.
Military chiefs said they backed the democratically elected Arroyo. They arrested an unspecified number of people, including an army general who leads an elite special forces unit, for alleged involvement in a coup plot.
"We have reduced the threat," army chief of staff Gen. Generoso Senga said. "We cannot say that it has been stopped."
Extra barbed wire and shipping containers were set up on roads leading to Malacanang, the presidential palace, and only essential staff were allowed in.
Checkpoints appeared around the capital. Media were barred from the main military headquarters, Camp Aguinaldo, where reinforcements arrived in eight armored personnel carriers. Another armored personnel carrier sat outside the marines' camp, with a truckload of marines in full battle gear nearby.
Police already were on red alert nationwide as widespread reports of a coup plot have circulated for more than a week; even elementary school students were discussing it in detail.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Hermogenes Esperon has said 14 junior officers were identified as being involved in a plot that included establishing a revolutionary government after Arroyo was forcibly removed and abolishing "democratic institutions."
The unusual security measures included efforts to shift former President Joseph Estrada, ousted by a second "people power" revolt in 2001, from a hospital where he was taken for eye surgery on Friday back to house detention. He has been on trial for alleged corruption. Estrada refused to leave the hospital.
Arroyo — who succeeded Estrada in January 2001 — survived three impeachment bids in September over allegations of massive corruption and vote-rigging. Opposition groups have continued to call for her resignation.
Clashes erupted as riot police used water cannons to disperse about 5,000 protesters defying a ban on rallying at a shrine to the 1986 revolt that toppled dictator Ferdinand Marcos.
Police then used truncheons and shields to roust a stone-throwing group trying to gather for a second protest. Several people were arrested; others were left bloodied.
Amid a massive security clampdown, the military barricaded its camps to keep troops from joining the demonstrations and detained an army general allegedly involved in the takeover plot. The military has played major roles in two popular uprisings and has a recent history of restiveness.
While she vowed she was in control, Arroyo clearly was worried about events getting out of control as her opponents tried to hijack events surrounding the 20th anniversary of the revolt against Marcos.
The commemorations were canceled, presidential spokesman Ignacio Bunye told a news conference, adding that the military has been ordered "to prevent and suppress lawless violence."
Many Filipinos see the four-day "people power" revolt on Feb. 25, 1986, as their country's proudest moment.
Arroyo, who survived two earlier coup attempts, said her action was the result of ongoing efforts by the political opposition, along with both the extreme left and the extreme right, to bring down the elected government.
"I am declaring a state of emergency because of the clear threat to the nation," a defiant Arroyo said in a taped, nationally televised statement.
"This is my warning against those who threaten the government: the whole weight of the law will fall on your treason."
Appealing for calm, she claimed the military had quashed a coup plot by some military officers and their men. The military has played strong roles in the two "people power" revolts and has a recent history of restiveness.
"There were a few who tried to break from the armed forces chain of command, to fight the civilian government and establish a regime outside the constitution," Arroyo said. "We crushed this attempt."
She stopped short of declaring martial law, a sensitive issue as Marcosused it to rule by decree.
Her chief of staff said the declaration will not include a curfew but bans rallies, allows arrest without a warrant, permits the president to call in the military to intervene and lets her take over facilities — including media outlets — that may affect national security.
In Washington, the State Department said it was monitoring the situation. "We firmly support the rule of law and constitutional government. Violence should be avoided," spokeswoman Janelle Hironimus said.
The opposition said the declaration showed the government's desperation.
"It could result in more political hemorrhage and security risk," said Rep. Roilo Golez, Arroyo's former national security adviser who withdrew support from her. "This could get out of control.
Rep. Teodoro Casino, a leftist leader, called the declaration "draconian" and said the government was headed toward "iron-handed rule." He said anti-Arroyo protests won't end.
The Philippine stock market and the peso both plunged after the declaration.
Military chiefs said they backed the democratically elected Arroyo. They arrested an unspecified number of people, including an army general who leads an elite special forces unit, for alleged involvement in a coup plot.
"We have reduced the threat," army chief of staff Gen. Generoso Senga said. "We cannot say that it has been stopped."
Extra barbed wire and shipping containers were set up on roads leading to Malacanang, the presidential palace, and only essential staff were allowed in.
Checkpoints appeared around the capital. Media were barred from the main military headquarters, Camp Aguinaldo, where reinforcements arrived in eight armored personnel carriers. Another armored personnel carrier sat outside the marines' camp, with a truckload of marines in full battle gear nearby.
Police already were on red alert nationwide as widespread reports of a coup plot have circulated for more than a week; even elementary school students were discussing it in detail.
Army chief Lt. Gen. Hermogenes Esperon has said 14 junior officers were identified as being involved in a plot that included establishing a revolutionary government after Arroyo was forcibly removed and abolishing "democratic institutions."
The unusual security measures included efforts to shift former President Joseph Estrada, ousted by a second "people power" revolt in 2001, from a hospital where he was taken for eye surgery on Friday back to house detention. He has been on trial for alleged corruption. Estrada refused to leave the hospital.
Arroyo — who succeeded Estrada in January 2001 — survived three impeachment bids in September over allegations of massive corruption and vote-rigging. Opposition groups have continued to call for her resignation.
sports news: Anderson relishing semi-final chance
St Johnstone’s Steven Anderson is by no means guaranteed to start Sunday’s semi-final and even if he does it might be out of position. Nevertheless, he is counting his blessings in the build- up to Hampden.
Anderson knows he’s luckier than most to be earning his living at a financially-sound club which, for a second successive season, stands just 90 minutes away from the Scottish Cup final— especially when just under four years ago he took a gamble on his future which looked like backfiring badly.
Aged 18, the central defender found himself out-of-contract at Dundee United and satisfied with neither the length nor terms of the new deal put to him by Tangerines boss Ian McCall.
So he turned his back on Tannadice and took up the chance of a trial with Rangers.
Trouble was he failed to win a contract at Ibrox, leaving him unemployed and, to complicate matters, with United entitled to compensation for the loss of his services if he managed to secure a deal at another SPL outfit.
“I went to Rangers for a month and enjoyed it there under John Brown, who I learned a lot from,” recalled Anderson.
“But it was difficult to make an impression at Ibrox and I found myself without a club.
“That was a hard time for me and I don’t mind admitting I was panicking.
“But my agent Martin Reilly got me fixed up with a trial game here, which I did OK in, then I featured in a first-team game as a trialist and John Connolly signed me.
“But then he signed a lot of players that year—and Paul Sheerin, Kevin Rutkiewicz and myself are the only ones still at the club.
“I’ve been fortunate. I know that.
“In the end things worked out for me but a lot of people who do what I did live to regret it and, in the current financial climate within football, I realise I am lucky being at a well-run club like St Johnstone.”
After Saints were so hard done by in losing to Celtic last year, Anderson is relishing the opportunity Sunday’s semi presents.
“I don’t think Celtic got out of second gear that day and we were gutted not to beat them.
“It was a great chance to get to a final and we failed to take it,” he recalled.
“But here we are 12 months on with another opportunity, one where once again we aren’t burdened with expectation
“When you are the underdogs you are free to just go and express yourself.
“And if we do that then maybe we can cause Rangers a problem, although they are flying at the moment.
“We certainly aim to give a good account of ourselves.
“And if we did win it would be the high point of my career. No doubt about that.”
10 Essential Health Tips (The Basics to Practice Every Day)
1. Move More
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Cut FatAvoid
the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes. Thought for the day: Buckle down and buckle up.
7. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't? Thought for the day: Floss and be your body's boss.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Thought for the day: Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.
Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Climb stairs if given a choice between that and escalators or elevators. Walk your dog; chase your kids; toss balls with friends, mow the lawn. Anything that moves your limbs is not only a fitness tool, it's a stress buster. Think 'move' in small increments of time. It doesn't have to be an hour in the gym or a 45-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. But that's great when you're up to it. Meanwhile, move more. Thought for the day: Cha, Cha, Cha…. Then do it!
2. Cut FatAvoid
the obvious such as fried foods, burgers and other fatty meats (i.e. pork, bacon, ham, salami, ribs and sausage). Dairy products such as cheese, cottage cheese, milk and cream should be eaten in low fat versions. Nuts and sandwich meats, mayonnaise, margarine, butter and sauces should be eaten in limited amounts. Most are available in lower fat versions such as substitute butter, fat free cheeses and mayonnaise. Thought for the day: Lean, mean, fat-burning machine…. Then be one!
3. Quit Smoking
The jury is definitely in on this verdict. Ever since 1960 when the Surgeon General announced that smoking was harmful to your health, Americans have been reducing their use of tobacco products that kill. Just recently, we've seen a surge in smoking in adolescents and teens. Could it be the Hollywood influence? It seems the stars in every movie of late smoke cigarettes. Beware. Warn your children of the false romance or 'tough guy' stance of Hollywood smokers. Thought for the day: Give up just one cigarette…. the next one.
4. Reduce Stress
Easier said than done, stress busters come in many forms. Some techniques recommended by experts are to think positive thoughts. Spend 30 minutes a day doing something you like. (i.e.,Soak in a hot tub; walk on the beach or in a park; read a good book; visit a friend; play with your dog; listen to soothing music; watch a funny movie. Get a massage, a facial or a haircut. Meditate. Count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Avoid difficult people when possible. Thought for the day: When seeing red, think pink clouds….then float on them.
5. Protect Yourself from Pollution
If you can't live in a smog-free environment, at least avoid smoke-filled rooms, high traffic areas, breathing in highway fumes and exercising near busy thoroughfares. Exercise outside when the smog rating is low. Exercise indoors in air conditioning when air quality is good. Plant lots of shrubbery in your yard. It's a good pollution and dirt from the street deterrent. Thought for the day: 'Smoke gets in your eyes'…and your mouth, and your nose and your lungs as do pollutants….hum the tune daily.
6. Wear Your Seat Belt
Statistics show that seat belts add to longevity and help alleviate potential injuries in car crashes. Thought for the day: Buckle down and buckle up.
7. Floss Your Teeth
Recent studies make a direct connection between longevity and teeth flossing. Nobody knows exactly why. Perhaps it's because people who floss tend to be more health conscious than people who don't? Thought for the day: Floss and be your body's boss.
8. Avoid Excessive Drinking
While recent studies show a glass of wine or one drink a day (two for men) can help protect against heart disease, more than that can cause other health problems such as liver and kidney disease and cancer. Thought for the day: A jug of wine should last a long time.
9. Keep a Positive Mental Outlook
There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing.
10. Choose Your Parents Well
The link between genetics and health is a powerful one. But just because one or both of your parents died young in ill health doesn't mean you cannot counteract the genetic pool handed you. Thought for the day: Follow these basic tips for healthy living and you can better control your own destiny.
Monday, April 14, 2008
FAITH GIVES US CONFIDENCE!
Faith is not an ordinary dog. This Chow-Labrador cross has fascinated the world and become a celebrity. E-mails, websites, television shows and an upcoming movie have all documented her incredible rise to become one of the most recognisable dogs in the world. Oprah Winfrey has even featured Faith on her show — twice! Faith was born with just two hind legs, which she uses to walk (and even run) like a human. That this beautiful two-legged dog is alive at all is nothing short of a miracle. It's a feat that may even change what the veterinary world sees as being possible. Faith was rescued by the Stringfellow family four years ago, after being abandoned. She was a malnourished puppy with days to live. However, Jude Stringfellow saw something in her eyes that inspired her — and a partnership was born between the two-legged puppy and a woman determined to prove people around her wrong, including those who suggested Faith be put to sleep. "I saw a look in her eyes that seemed to be a plea for help," says Jude, who has written books about Faith called With A Little Faith and Faith Alone: Stories of an Amazing Dog. "She had pride and determination. I really wanted to give her a chance." As Faith grew, she learnt to move about as best she could by pushing herself along the floor. "The vet told me that if she continued to drag her body along like that, it would cause her to graze her chest and the wound would become infected," Jude says. The bottom line was that if Faith didn't stand up, she would certainly not survive. Teaching her to raise herself up on her two legs was no easy feat, but one thing Faith had was a healthy appetite. She loved peanut butter and would do anything for it. Jude began offering spoonfuls to her, keeping it just out of her reach, until Faith grew strong enough to stand up. It took eight months, but the result is truly amazing. Faith seems to relish every unbelievable step she takes, and that tail of hers never stays still. It almost propels her around through its fits of excitement-induced flapping! Her triumph against the odds has bemused some and amused others, but many more people are inspired. They realise that if a dog with two legs and little chance of life can lift herself up, maybe they can, too. Really a great effort for a dog!
Gender of the Computer!
A language instructor was explaining to her class that French nouns, unlike their Englishcounterparts, are grammatically designated asmasculine or feminine Things like 'chalk' or'pencil,' she described, would have a genderassociation although in English these words wereneutral.Puzzled, one student raised his hand and asked, "Whatgender is a computer?"The teacher wasn't certain which it was, and sodivided the class into two groups and asked themto decide if a computer should be masculine orfeminine One group was comprised of the girls inthe class, and the other, of boys Both groups wereasked to give four reasons for theirrecommendation.The group of girls concluded that computers should bereferred to in the masculine gender because:1- In order to get their attention, you have to turnthem on.2- They have a lot of data but are still clueless.3- They are supposed to help you solve your problems,but half the time they ARE the problem.4- As soon as you commit to one, you realize that, ifyou had waited a little longer, you couldhave had a better model.The boys, on the other hand, decided that computersshould definitely be referred to in thefeminine gender because:1- No one but their creator understands their internallogic.2- The native language they use to communicate withother computers is incomprehensible toeveryone else.3- Even your smallest mistakes are stored in long-termmemory for later retrieval.4- As soon as you make a commitment to one, you findyourself spending half your paycheck onaccessories for it.
SHORTEST AUTOBIOGRAPHY!
Portia Nelson reports that she has written her autobiography in just five short chapters. It goes like this: CHAPTER ONE I walk down the street.There's a hole in the sidewalk. It is a very deep hole. I fall in... I am helpless. It isn't my fault. It takes forever to find a way out. CHAPTER TWO I walk down the same street. There's a deep hole in the sidewalk. I pretend I don't see it. I fall in... again.I can't believe I'm in the same place, but it isn't my fault. It still takes a long time to get out. CHAPTER THREE I walk down the same street. There's a deep hole in the sidewalk. I see it is there. I still fall in... it's a habit, but my eyes are open. I know where I am. It is my fault. I get out immediately. CHAPTER FOUR I walk down the same street. There's a deep hole in the sidewalk. I walk around it. CHAPTER FIVE I walk down another street. What a marvelous progression from... a helpless victim of life... to a victim of self... to taking responsibility... to self-discipline... to making better choices!
Ten million players. However you look at it, that's a lot. World of Warcraft not only dwarfs all other massively-multiplayer games, it dwarfs a good number of countries -- not silly countries like Monaco and Greenland, either, but perfectly sensible ones. Like Sweden, say, or Israel. But how do the holdings of this legion of players compare to the corporate giants of the world?
Determining what actually is the world's largest company is far from an exact science. Do you measure it by annual revenue, in which case it's ExxonMobil, which pulled in about $400 billion in 2007? Perhaps counting number of employees makes more sense, in which case it's Wal-Mart, which has 1.7 million blue-vested souls on its books. Maybe market capitalization, a measure of the public opinion of the value of a company, is what matters most, in which case it's probably ExxonMobil again.
No matter how you slice it, most of the same names come up time and again -- a cabal of the world's most powerful private economic entities. They include petroleum giants like BP, Shell and ExxonMobil and manufacturing powerhouses like Toyota and General Electric. Some, like HSBC and Citifinancial, are fiscal giants; others, like Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway, have fingers in all kinds of pies. One thing's true of them all, however: none have very much in common with World of Warcraft, or its creator, Blizzard Entertainment.
Or do they? You may not be able to buy shares in your Warcraft server, but you can certainly invest in its future. Even continuing to play on a particular server is in a sense an expression of confidence. Unsuccessful online games, like floundering companies, are bound to have the plug pulled on them at some point. As you play, your character accumulates value via experience points, equipment, currency and commodities. What do you get if you total that value across the game's whole population?
Screenshots from World of Warcraft
Determining what actually is the world's largest company is far from an exact science. Do you measure it by annual revenue, in which case it's ExxonMobil, which pulled in about $400 billion in 2007? Perhaps counting number of employees makes more sense, in which case it's Wal-Mart, which has 1.7 million blue-vested souls on its books. Maybe market capitalization, a measure of the public opinion of the value of a company, is what matters most, in which case it's probably ExxonMobil again.
No matter how you slice it, most of the same names come up time and again -- a cabal of the world's most powerful private economic entities. They include petroleum giants like BP, Shell and ExxonMobil and manufacturing powerhouses like Toyota and General Electric. Some, like HSBC and Citifinancial, are fiscal giants; others, like Warren Buffet's Berkshire Hathaway, have fingers in all kinds of pies. One thing's true of them all, however: none have very much in common with World of Warcraft, or its creator, Blizzard Entertainment.
Or do they? You may not be able to buy shares in your Warcraft server, but you can certainly invest in its future. Even continuing to play on a particular server is in a sense an expression of confidence. Unsuccessful online games, like floundering companies, are bound to have the plug pulled on them at some point. As you play, your character accumulates value via experience points, equipment, currency and commodities. What do you get if you total that value across the game's whole population?
Screenshots from World of Warcraft
You don't really get a corporation, of course. Neither, though it's fun to play the relative-population game, do you get a nation. Here, Warcraft's users pay a monthly fee to Blizzard to be part of the world, like some kind of exclusive gated community, rather than being citizens, employees or shareholders. Nevertheless, the sheer scale of the trading going on across Warcraft's hundreds of realms certainly qualifies it as an economic force in its own right.
If you're part of the ever-shrinking majority who's never taken a step in Warcraft's world, you probably aren't prepared for the richness of the ebb and flow of supply and demand that's taking place every day in Azeroth. On each of the game's many servers, a system of auction houses lets between 15 and 30 thousand players trade goods they've acquired from killing monsters or manufactured from raw ingredients harvested from the world, all for the game's glibly-named currency, "gold." A casual network of barter and exchange thrives, filling players' screens with rapidly-scrolling want ads whenever they step into a major city. Player organizations, equipped with collective resources and shared goals, set up elaborate supply chains to funnel materials to experienced crafters for processing into ever more valuable items.
All this economic richness creates opportunities aplenty for the canny player. Commodities trading is a great place to start; the auction houses offer the perfect opportunity for wannabe day traders to play, away from the gaze of regulators and, of course, away from the risk of losing anything more than your virtual shirt. Assisted by custom-created, specialized user interfaces, the Warcraft trader pores over auction listings, watching price trends, studying supply levels and analyzing upcoming game tweaks in an attempt to be the first to spot a new opening.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Saturday, April 5, 2008
Sydney White
Gorgeous freshman Sydney White has come to Southern Atlantic University to pledge her late mom's once-dignified sorority. But while surviving the pledging process wrought by evil campus witch Rachel, Syd finds out this version of sisterhood isn't remotely what it's cracked up to be. Banished to a condemned house on Greek Row, Syd finds her rightful place with a band of seven very socially challenged guys. With the help of one lovestruck frat boy named Tyler, she and the doofs campaign to take over student government. Fighting for the rights of misfits big and small, Syd organizes her gang to revolutionize the system, once and for all.
tHe Rendezvouz
Does it seem important to have company?
To live and conquer the world you wanna be
And pursue your dreams that lay upon your hands
In a place which being molded and enhance.
In life's he dwell it reciprocates andview
Those memories that gives knowledge to review
Beneath the old oak trees we become truthful
Though just a place but meetings are almost full
Which bring unforgettable experiences,
The tears and sweats upon their sacrifices
Will never forgotten but it'll stay
Coz the memories of happiness will last as I say.:)
To live and conquer the world you wanna be
And pursue your dreams that lay upon your hands
In a place which being molded and enhance.
In life's he dwell it reciprocates andview
Those memories that gives knowledge to review
Beneath the old oak trees we become truthful
Though just a place but meetings are almost full
Which bring unforgettable experiences,
The tears and sweats upon their sacrifices
Will never forgotten but it'll stay
Coz the memories of happiness will last as I say.:)
It's the end of summer and Claire (Roberts) and Hailey (JoJo) have a major problem. In just five days, Hailey's family is moving halfway around the world! These girls need a major miracle, and they get one in the form of Aquamarine, a beautiful mermaid who washes ashore in a late summer storm. Sweet but clueless to the ways of romance, she offers to grant the girls one wish if they help her find the boy of her dreams. But when they attempt to reel in the cute local lifeguard, the result is something none of them expect and they discover that sometimes what you wish for isn't what you really want after all!
Friday, April 4, 2008
.:sTep uP 2:.
Step Up 2: The Streets, follows Andie (Briana Evigan) as she pursues her dream of becoming a dancer. Andie is passionate about dancing and rehearses regularly with her 'crew', the 410, to keep the title of the illegal competition 'The Streets'. Andie's foster mother is tired of the crime and harassment by the 410 and tells Andie she will have to go to live with her aunt in Texas if she doesn't turn her life around. Andie's friend and older brother figure Tyler Gage (Channing Tatum) persuades her to audition for the Maryland School of the Arts, where Andie receives a place. When Andie's studies come before the crew, the members are not happy and decide to drop her. Andie however has different ideas and forms her own crew to compete. Missy, joins the crew after dropping out of the 410 following Andie's removal.
Chase (Robert Hoffman) is the younger of two sons whose father started the Maryland School of the Arts. His whole family dances ballet but he has always wanted to compete in The Streets as a member of a hip hop crew. This was made possible when Andie joined the school. However, his ex-girlfriend Sophie (Cassie Ventura) becomes jealous. His older brother Blake Collins is the Director of the Maryland School of the Arts and a very traditional ballet dancer. He doesn't approve of Chase's ambitions.
Moose (Adam G. Sevani) eccentric teenage boy at the Maryland School of the Arts, is studying a stage lighting program and it was thought he could not handle the routines and choreography. He befriends Andie and later joins her crew. After the rain dance, Director Collins, moves Moose from the lighting program to the dance program.
sTep uP
Tyler Gage is an Irish American boy growing up in slum neighborhood, who spends much of his time hanging out among Black boys - in particular the brothers Mac and Skinny Carter. The three of them play basketball, go to parties and are on occasion involved in petty crime - especially stealing cars.
After tangling at a party with a gangster known as P.J., who pulls a gun and is quite capable of using it, the three beat a hasty retreat. Wandering the street in frustration, they break into the Maryland School of Arts - which they regard as "the hangout of rich kids", not realizing that most of its pupils are there on scholarship - and damage many of the props in the school's theatre.
When a security guard appears, Tyler helps the other two escape and accepts the blame. He is sentenced to 200 hours of community service, which he has to serve at the school. While working, he watches a dance class and meets Nora Clark a student preparing for her "senior showcase." The performance could determine if she gets a job with a dance company. Later, Tyler mockingly shows his friends some of the dance moves he learned while watching the school's ballet dancers, mixing them with break-dance and street dance moves.
Nora's dance partner Andrew sprains his ankle, leaving Nora without a partner. After auditioning some other students, she doesn't meet any who are good enough. Tyler offers to help, but she at first refuses. Eventually she changes her mind, having seen him dancing earlier, and convinces Director Gordon to allow Tyler to rehearse with her. During their initial practice session, Tyler is antagonistic toward Nora as well as her boyfriend, both of whom respond with haughty attitudes. As they continue to rehearse, Nora and Tyler grow closer, each teaching the other about their respective styles of dance. Tyler also befriends a musician at the school named Miles, who has a crush on Nora's friend Lucy.
One day, Nora takes Tyler to a special spot on the waterfront, which is where she envisioned her routine. She tells Tyler she always imagined it would be with a large group, and Tyler helps her dream come true by recruiting younger dancers from the school to perform in her number.
Nora's boyfriend gets a recording deal with a company, but in doing so, dumps Miles to sign the deal. Nora then breaks up with her boyfriend after seeing his poor treatment of their friend.
Tyler asks Director Gordon if she will let him attend the school, and her response is that he must prove to her that he deserves a chance. Upon hearing this, Nora says the showcase can be his audition. Nora's dance partner returns, seemingly healed from his injury. Tyler feels that he is no longer needed in the routine, and angrily accuses Nora of treating him the same way her ex-boyfriend treated Miles.
He leaves the group and Nora and goes back to janitorial work at the school - and to his previous wild night life with his former friends Mac and Skinny. This takes a sudden grim turn when Skinny steals a car without realizing it belongs to the gangster P.J. - who fatally shoots him. Shaken and shocked, Mac and Tyler realize that they need to make better choices in their lives.
Nora again loses her partner because he is not able to do the routine that Nora and Tyler came up with together. Nora finally decides to do her senior showcase solo. However, without a partner, the routine is not as good and she knows she will not be able to get accepted into any dance troupes. Before the showcase starts, Tyler arrives, and after making up they perform the showcase together. Nora is offered a place in a professional dance troupe, and Tyler is accepted into the Maryland School of Arts
After tangling at a party with a gangster known as P.J., who pulls a gun and is quite capable of using it, the three beat a hasty retreat. Wandering the street in frustration, they break into the Maryland School of Arts - which they regard as "the hangout of rich kids", not realizing that most of its pupils are there on scholarship - and damage many of the props in the school's theatre.
When a security guard appears, Tyler helps the other two escape and accepts the blame. He is sentenced to 200 hours of community service, which he has to serve at the school. While working, he watches a dance class and meets Nora Clark a student preparing for her "senior showcase." The performance could determine if she gets a job with a dance company. Later, Tyler mockingly shows his friends some of the dance moves he learned while watching the school's ballet dancers, mixing them with break-dance and street dance moves.
Nora's dance partner Andrew sprains his ankle, leaving Nora without a partner. After auditioning some other students, she doesn't meet any who are good enough. Tyler offers to help, but she at first refuses. Eventually she changes her mind, having seen him dancing earlier, and convinces Director Gordon to allow Tyler to rehearse with her. During their initial practice session, Tyler is antagonistic toward Nora as well as her boyfriend, both of whom respond with haughty attitudes. As they continue to rehearse, Nora and Tyler grow closer, each teaching the other about their respective styles of dance. Tyler also befriends a musician at the school named Miles, who has a crush on Nora's friend Lucy.
One day, Nora takes Tyler to a special spot on the waterfront, which is where she envisioned her routine. She tells Tyler she always imagined it would be with a large group, and Tyler helps her dream come true by recruiting younger dancers from the school to perform in her number.
Nora's boyfriend gets a recording deal with a company, but in doing so, dumps Miles to sign the deal. Nora then breaks up with her boyfriend after seeing his poor treatment of their friend.
Tyler asks Director Gordon if she will let him attend the school, and her response is that he must prove to her that he deserves a chance. Upon hearing this, Nora says the showcase can be his audition. Nora's dance partner returns, seemingly healed from his injury. Tyler feels that he is no longer needed in the routine, and angrily accuses Nora of treating him the same way her ex-boyfriend treated Miles.
He leaves the group and Nora and goes back to janitorial work at the school - and to his previous wild night life with his former friends Mac and Skinny. This takes a sudden grim turn when Skinny steals a car without realizing it belongs to the gangster P.J. - who fatally shoots him. Shaken and shocked, Mac and Tyler realize that they need to make better choices in their lives.
Nora again loses her partner because he is not able to do the routine that Nora and Tyler came up with together. Nora finally decides to do her senior showcase solo. However, without a partner, the routine is not as good and she knows she will not be able to get accepted into any dance troupes. Before the showcase starts, Tyler arrives, and after making up they perform the showcase together. Nora is offered a place in a professional dance troupe, and Tyler is accepted into the Maryland School of Arts
nAkeD wEapon
The movie opens with the assassination of a man of unknown identity. A team of three CIA officers, including Jack Chen (played by Daniel Wu), a rookie, watch through surveillance as a sexy female assassin named Fiona Birch (Marit Thoresen) enters the man's heavily guarded apartment suite and, after having sex with him, kills him by breaking his spine with her bare hands. As she makes her escape in her white Porsche 911 GT3, her car is hit by a rocket. As the officers rush over to extricate her from the wreckage, a woman in a limousine shoots her to death.
The woman in the limousine is revealed to be Madam M (Almen Wong), the leader of a mysterious assassin organization, to which the killed assassin belonged. After the incident, young girls across the globe start disappearing one after another. The only relationship among them is that they are all trained in martial arts or sports. As correctly theorized by Jack, these girls have been abducted by Madam M and transported to an island to be trained to become professional assassins. After six years of gruesome training, only Charlene Ching (Maggie Q), Katt(Anya Wu) and Jing (Jewel Lee) survive and "graduate".
The three girls are then sent on several missions around the world. During one of her missions in Hong Kong, Charlene coincidently runs into her long-lost mother, Faye Ching (Cheng Pei-pei). Jack, who has been following Madam M's case for the last six years, tracks Charlene down, but the latter manages to knock him out and escape. Believing that Charlene would return to seek her mother, Jack waits outside Faye's house. However, Jing shows up first and stabs Faye. Jack tries to fend her off but was no match for her. Fortunately, Charlene shows up shortly and kills Jing after a fierce fight. The two then escort the wounded Faye to hospital.
In order to regain their freedom, Charlene and Katt accept a final mission from Madam M. A Yakuza boss, Ryuichi (Andrew Lin) has contracted Madam M to eliminate a traitor in his gang. The mission turns out to be Ryuichi's trap to avenge his partner, who was assassinated previously by Madam M's girls. Ryuchi kills Madam M and captures Katt, while Charlene escapes. When Charlene returns the next day to rescue Katt, she watches helplessly through a bullet-proof glass as the latter is killed by Ryuichi, with a sword. The enraged Charlene battles Ryuichi and manages to kill him.
After everything was over, Jack and Charlene's mother, Faye, were at a Chinese temple offering prayers. Faye jokingly said that these things (the gods that she has been praying to) were all nonsense. But Jack told her that he felt peace everytime he steps into the temple. Faye commended his behaviour and said that he should visit the temple more often. Meanwhile, we see Charlene in a Chinese temple praying for Katt's soul to rest in peace and she told the deity that she wishes to be with the one she truly loves, none other than Jack himself. They never met again until the last part of the movie, where Jack felt his intuition that Charlene was beside him.
The woman in the limousine is revealed to be Madam M (Almen Wong), the leader of a mysterious assassin organization, to which the killed assassin belonged. After the incident, young girls across the globe start disappearing one after another. The only relationship among them is that they are all trained in martial arts or sports. As correctly theorized by Jack, these girls have been abducted by Madam M and transported to an island to be trained to become professional assassins. After six years of gruesome training, only Charlene Ching (Maggie Q), Katt(Anya Wu) and Jing (Jewel Lee) survive and "graduate".
The three girls are then sent on several missions around the world. During one of her missions in Hong Kong, Charlene coincidently runs into her long-lost mother, Faye Ching (Cheng Pei-pei). Jack, who has been following Madam M's case for the last six years, tracks Charlene down, but the latter manages to knock him out and escape. Believing that Charlene would return to seek her mother, Jack waits outside Faye's house. However, Jing shows up first and stabs Faye. Jack tries to fend her off but was no match for her. Fortunately, Charlene shows up shortly and kills Jing after a fierce fight. The two then escort the wounded Faye to hospital.
In order to regain their freedom, Charlene and Katt accept a final mission from Madam M. A Yakuza boss, Ryuichi (Andrew Lin) has contracted Madam M to eliminate a traitor in his gang. The mission turns out to be Ryuichi's trap to avenge his partner, who was assassinated previously by Madam M's girls. Ryuchi kills Madam M and captures Katt, while Charlene escapes. When Charlene returns the next day to rescue Katt, she watches helplessly through a bullet-proof glass as the latter is killed by Ryuichi, with a sword. The enraged Charlene battles Ryuichi and manages to kill him.
After everything was over, Jack and Charlene's mother, Faye, were at a Chinese temple offering prayers. Faye jokingly said that these things (the gods that she has been praying to) were all nonsense. But Jack told her that he felt peace everytime he steps into the temple. Faye commended his behaviour and said that he should visit the temple more often. Meanwhile, we see Charlene in a Chinese temple praying for Katt's soul to rest in peace and she told the deity that she wishes to be with the one she truly loves, none other than Jack himself. They never met again until the last part of the movie, where Jack felt his intuition that Charlene was beside him.
wonderful sOng
In the day
In the night
Say it all
Say it right
You either got it
Or you don't
You either stand or you fall
When your will is broken
When it slips from your hand
When there's no time for joking
There's a hole in the plan
Oh you don't mean nothing at all to me
No you don't mean nothing at all to me
Do you got what it takes to set me free
Oh you could mean everything to me
I can't say that I'm not lost and at fault
I can't say that I don't love the light and the dark
I can't say that I don't know that I am alive
And all of what I feel I could showYou tonite you tonite
From my hands I could give you
Something that I made
From my mouth I could sing you another brick that I laid
From my body I could show you a place God knows
You should know the space is holy
Do you really want to go?
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
maH...fAvoriTe SoNGs
i really like ThIs sOng :)
sung bY: jOrDin SpArkS with cHris brOwn
Tell me how I'm suppose to breathe with no air [oohhhh]
If I
Should die
Before
I wake,
Its cause
You took
My breath
Away.
Losing you is like living in a world with no air
Ohhh...
I'm here,
Alone,
Didn't want
To leave.
My heart won't move,
It's incomplete.
Wish there
Was a way
That I can make you to understand,
(Pre-Chorus)
But How,
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
Its so hard for me to breathe.
(Chorus)
Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live, can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
There's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe.
Its No Air No Air.
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (noooo)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air
I Walked,
I Ran,
I Jumped,
I Flew,
Right off the ground,
To float to you.
There's no gravity,
To hold me down,
For real.
But Somehow
I'm still alive inside.
You took my breath,
But I survived.
I don't know how,
But I don't even care.
(Pre-Chorus)
So How,
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
Its so hard for me to breathe.
( Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever ain't there.
Its No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe
There's No Air No Air
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air
uhh uhh uhh
No Air (ohhh)
uhh uhh uhh
No Air (ohhh)
uhh uhh uhh
Its No Air No Air
Heyyy..
Oooooo..
No Aiiiiiir
Oooooo..
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
(Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
There's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here I just can't breathe.
There's No Air No Air.
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
I'ts so hard for me to breathe.
(Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
It's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe.
There's No Air No Air
No air air (ohh)
No air air (ohh)
No air air (No air)
sung bY: jOrDin SpArkS with cHris brOwn
Tell me how I'm suppose to breathe with no air [oohhhh]
If I
Should die
Before
I wake,
Its cause
You took
My breath
Away.
Losing you is like living in a world with no air
Ohhh...
I'm here,
Alone,
Didn't want
To leave.
My heart won't move,
It's incomplete.
Wish there
Was a way
That I can make you to understand,
(Pre-Chorus)
But How,
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
Its so hard for me to breathe.
(Chorus)
Tell me how I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live, can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
There's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe.
Its No Air No Air.
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (noooo)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air
I Walked,
I Ran,
I Jumped,
I Flew,
Right off the ground,
To float to you.
There's no gravity,
To hold me down,
For real.
But Somehow
I'm still alive inside.
You took my breath,
But I survived.
I don't know how,
But I don't even care.
(Pre-Chorus)
So How,
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
Its so hard for me to breathe.
( Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever ain't there.
Its No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe
There's No Air No Air
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air (ohhhh)
No air air
uhh uhh uhh
No Air (ohhh)
uhh uhh uhh
No Air (ohhh)
uhh uhh uhh
Its No Air No Air
Heyyy..
Oooooo..
No Aiiiiiir
Oooooo..
Ohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
(Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
There's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here I just can't breathe.
There's No Air No Air.
Do you expect me,
To live alone with just me?
'Cause my world revolves around you,
I'ts so hard for me to breathe.
(Chorus)
Tell Me How I'm supposed to breathe with no air.
Can't live can't breathe with no air.
That's how I feel whenever you ain't there.
It's No Air No Air.
Got me out here in the water so deep.
Tell me how you gon' be without me.
If you ain't here, I just can't breathe.
There's No Air No Air
No air air (ohh)
No air air (ohh)
No air air (No air)
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