TOP TEN FACTS ABOUT CHEATING.

1. When you chEat the person who gets hurt the most is you.

2. Cheating is a form of lying - if you cheat you are also a liar.

3. Just because others are cheating doesn't mean it is OK for you to do so.

4. When you cheat in school the short term reward may be a good grade but the long term effect of the action is denying yourself knowledge and the satisfaction of achievement.
5. If you feel the need to cheat in school it shows that you need help in that subject. Getting help will curb the urge to cheat and help you succeed in the long run.

6. Cheating in a romantic relationship is very un-cool. If you are uncommitted enough to cheat you should break off the relationship and save the other person a great deal of heart ache. The pain and humiliation of being cheated on is never worse than the pain of being broken up with.

7. No matter what you tell yourself about your reasons for cheating your motivations are purely selfish. Nobody ever cheats for the sake of another person.

8. Telling on a person who is cheating is not "ratting", especially when the cheating directly impacts the lives of others (for example: people cheating on a test that is graded on a curve, or your friend is cheating on his girlfriend). You are not doing anybody any favors by covering up for a cheater.

9. It is never too late to come clean about cheating. There will be consequences but when you admit to cheating you have already taken the first step toward making amends and others will respect that.

10. Cheating rarely occurs in isolation. It is a fact that it gets easier to cheat each time that you do it, especially if you don't get caught. The likelihood that a person will cheat again is directly related to whether or not they have gotten away with it in the past.

OPRAH OPENS SECOND SCHOOL IN AFRICA

US talk show queen Oprah Winfrey is set to open an innovative, environmentally-friendly school she funded with the South African government.

Seven Fountains Primary School in Shayamoya, a 12 million rands (£831,304) "model state education facility" is in a remote town in the eastern KwaZulu-Natal province.

It was funded by Winfrey's Angel Network, a public charity that supports organisations and projects focused on education and literacy initiatives.

The school, which will serve about 1,000 children, will be run by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education.

The lavish 40 million dollar (£20.7 million) school was the fulfilment of a promise she made to Mandela six years ago and aims to give 152 girls from deprived background a quality education in a country where schools are struggling to overcome the legacy of apartheid.

Way to go Oprah. Hope more billionaires will follow in your footstep.

TOP TEN THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT TRUST.

1. Trust is a two way street; you get it if you give it. For example: if you want your parents to trust you try trusting them with the truth about what is going on in your life, if you want a relationship built on trust you have to trust in the other person as much as you do in yourself.

2. Parents will usually give trust freely until you do something to break it. If this isn't the case in your family and you really can't see why your parents don't trust you just come right out and ask them for an explanation.

3. Sometimes people don't trust you because of the actions of a person close to you. It is all too common for the behavior of older siblings or friends to cause parents and teachers to doubt you. Accept that this is what is happening, don't fight it, and work at proving that in spite of the actions of others you can be trusted.

4. Sometimes trust has to be earned. If you had trust but did something to break it, it is possible to fix things. But in doing so remember that as the trust breaker you don't get to set the expectations, terms or time frame for earning that trust back.

5. In order to fix broken trust both sides have to want the trust back. You can never force a person to trust you.

6. Your parents want to trust you! What you see as mistrust of you could really be fear, mistrust of those around you and/or their natural protective instincts at work.

7. Some people have been so badly hurt in the past that they have great difficulty trusting others. If you have a person like this in your life accept that there will always be an element of mistrust in your relationship and be prepared to work overtime to prove that you can be trusted.

8. Trust is an essential part of ALL successful relationships be they academic, romantic, friendly or familial.

9. Trust is an essential part of sex - if you don't trust your partner 110% don't have sex with them.
10. Trust is a gift - you give it and you receive it. It should never be taken for granted.

ALL ABOUT ASTHMA.

I lost a very dear friend of mine to Asthma in January and since then I've taken a personal interest in what Asthma is all about. We don't have Asthma in my family, thank God, but I know there alot of people out there with that ailment. So I went digging to find out more about the disease and methods through which one can manage and live with it for a long time.

This is what I found out:

What is Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease that affects your breathing. What happens is that your airways become inflamed and irritated in reaction to some kind of substance or situation. Your airways are the tubes that carry air and oxygen into and out of your body.

What Happens With Asthma
When you have asthma, your airways tend to be red and swollen and are easily irritated in response to triggers, such as pollen and cigarette smoke. Then, the airways' inside walls become even more swollen and the muscles tight. That means that the passages get narrower, and less air flows through to your lung tissue. A sticky substance called mucus is also produced in larger than normal amounts, which clogs your airways even more, making it hard to breathe.

Common asthma symptoms are the wheezing sound made as the air squeezes through the narrowed airways, along with coughing, shortness of breath and a feeling of tightness in the chest. Symptoms can come and go with asthma, and their intensity can vary.

Types of Asthma
Asthma is often connected with allergies, but it can also be related to non-allergic causes, such as chemicals and other irritating substances. Exercise can also bring on asthma symptoms in some people.

Asthma Risk Factors
Asthma is a very common disease and is becoming more common all the time. One of the highest risk factors for asthma is having a family history of asthma, especially the allergic kind. Asthma can affect people at any age, but half of the people with asthma develop it during childhood, usually before age 10.
Asthma affects people of all races and ethnic backgrounds. However, African-Americans are more likely to have severe asthma attacks and to die from asthma.

Top three Asthma triggers
1) Allergens
Allergens is the medical term for inhaled substances that cause an allergic reaction, such as pollen, dust, mold, animal dander, and cockroach allergens. Sometimes you need repeated exposure over a long period before you start to have asthma symptoms in response to an allergen.

2) Irritants
Irritants are substances that do not cause an allergic reaction, but that do irritate the airways, causing asthma symptoms. Examples of irritants are smoke, chemical fumes, perfume, strong odors from paint or cooking, and air pollution.

3) Other Triggers
This is a miscellaneous category of triggers, and can include a number of different substances or situations that may set off asthma symptoms. Other triggers include emotional stress, cold air, medicines such as aspirin or beta-blockers, sulfites in food or wine, and respiratory infections. In some people, even hard laughing or crying can trigger asthma symptoms.

Asthma treatment
Medicine Is Not the Only Alternative
By far the best treatment advice is to take charge of your asthma by learning all you can about it and by making changes in your home or lifestyle that can have a significant effect on the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms. What this means is to decrease your amount of contact with the things that set off, or trigger, asthma symptoms and asthma attacks. There are many things you can do, from removing the family pet from the bedroom to staying indoors on windy, hot days to keeping the home as clean and dust-free as possible.

Asthma Medicines
There are 2 main categories of asthma medicines:
Quick-relief, or rescue, medicines. You take these when you begin to notice asthma symptoms to relieve them and keep them from getting worse.

Controller, or preventive, medicines. You take these to prevent asthma symptoms from starting in the first place, or at least to keep them at a low level.

Both types of asthma medication play an important role in keeping you healthy. If you do not have both types in your current asthma treatment plan, you may want to talk with your doctor. You might also want to think about consulting an asthma specialist.

Quick-relief medicines are usually bronchodilators, also called beta-agonists. This kind of medicine acts quickly on the muscles of the airways to relax them. As your airways open up, your asthma symptoms should ease. Here are some examples of quick-relief medicines:

. Albuterol
. Maxair
. Xolair
. Xopenex

Take your quick-relief medicine as soon as you start to notice asthma symptoms, such as wheezing or cough. Don't wait until they become severe.

Controller medicines come in a number of different varieties:
. Inhaled corticosteroids
. Leukotriene modifiers
. Long-acting beta agonists
. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
. Combination medicines
. Long-acting bronchodilators

I hope this goes a long way in helping those of you out there who have Asthma. May God be with you all.

WORLD'S OLDEST LIVING PERSON.

While the title of world’s oldest living human is continually claimed by centenarians from all corners of the globe, Ukrainian Hryhory Nestor, who celebrates his 116th birthday today, probably has a stronger claim than most.

Born on March 15 1891, birthday boy Hryhory is nearly two years older than Yone Minagawa, the Japanese woman who celebrated her 114th birthday back in January and was presumed to be the world's oldest person.

Nestor also has over 4 years on Tomoji Tanabe, the 111 year old Japanese villager who claimed to be the world’s oldest living man.

But while the true age of these craggy contenders is frequently disputed, Nestor, whose story was only recently discovered by a Ukrainian newspaper, has Austrian, Soviet-era and Ukrainian passports that all confirm his longevity.

Nestor is a resident of Stari Yarychiv, a small village 25 miles from the historical city of Lviv. He has lived in West Ukraine all his life and puts his long life down to a diet of milk, cheese and potatoes plus an outdoors lifestyle that involves sleeping under the summer skies and walking barefoot throughout the surrounding countryside.

May I not live to be 116 years old. After 80, I'm fine, thank you.

THE UNNECCESSARY DEATH OF KODJO YENGA.

Stabbed to death: Kodjo Yenga was chased by a gang of boys wearing school uniform


Friends pay tribute to Kodjo, the 'fallen soldier'




A schoolboy was stabbed to death in the street after a gang of boys and girls chased him chanting, "Kill him, kill him".

Kodjo was stabbed at 5.30pm on Wednesday in Hammersmith Grove, near Shepherd's Bush, While walking with his girlfriend. The couple had been walking back from Hammersmith after having dinner with her mother and had picked up her pet dog, she said. She claimed a stranger had approached Kodjo in the street and challenged him to a fight.
At first he refused but eventually told the other boy: "Come on, let's do this then".
The pair started fighting on Hammersmith Grove before seven or eight other teenagers armed with knives, hammers and bats appeared and joined in, she said.

Kodjo Yenga, 16, was left dying in a pool of blood after being stabbed and beated.

He was taken by ambulance to Charing Cross Hospital in a critical condition and died less than an hour later.

Four youths are due to appear in court charged with the his murder.

The teenagers, two aged 13, one aged 15 and a fourth aged 16, will appear at West London Magistrates' Court.

They are charged with murdering Kodjo, of Portland Road, west London, on Wednesday evening March 14th 2007, in Hammersmith Grove.

Kodjo's mother Ladjua has paid tribute to her "beautiful, polite and loving" son.
She said: "Kodjo was a beautiful boy, very polite and loving. I loved him so much.
"He was ambitious, studied hard and was making something of his life. He wanted to go into TV and design and be a success. I just need to know why he was killed. I won't rest until I have the answers.

A Metropolitan Police spokeswoman said the seven youths in custody over Kodjo's death were all blacks.

The killing follows the deaths of four boys in a fortnight of gangrelated violence in London last month.

What is our world turning into? I'm speechless.

BEEN BLOGGING ALL NIGHT!

I just looked up to check the time and it's morning already. It's about 5 minutes to 6 in the morning. How time flies when you're having fun. I remember sitting in front of my laptop around 12midnight, it's been six hours. imagine! I gotto go catch me some beauty sleep 'cos I have an interview scheduled for 1pm. Hope you guys enjoy some stuff that I loaded up. Don't forget to leave your comments..it makes sitting in front of a computer for 6 hours worth it. I appreciate all your comments even though I don't reply them. I sincerely do not know where and how to reply comments. Anybody who knows what I should do, should please give me instructions. Ciao everyone!!! linda

'SECOND CHANCES' FOR MICHELLE BRANCH.

I'm sure alot of you remember Michelle Branch. Well, after an unsuccessful solo career, the former pop/rock chick has reinvented herself as part of the alt-country duo called The Wreckers. Their debut album, 'Stand Still, Look Pretty' is an exquisite affair.

So many timeless songs on the album, like the title track.

On the surface, 'Stand Still, Look Pretty' is a meditation on fame, but it's more than that. It's a song about frustration. About empathy. It's about life.

I'm glad Michelle got a second chance in life to live her dream.

Go get the album. You won't regret it.

LINDSAY LOHAN'S FATHER RELEASED FROM JAIL.

A police officer with a hand-cuffed Michael Lohan

Lindsay Lohan's father was released from jail the day before yesterday, Thursday, March 15th and he's a reformed man!

Michael Lohan, who spent two years in prison on DUI and assault charges, reveals that he found God while in jail. And, not only that, while incarcerated, he went to Bible college and became a minister with the Assemblies of God Ministry.

I don't know who needs more help, father or daughter? May God help them.

IS RYAN SEACREST REALLY GAY?

Ryan and male friend out shopping

First and foremost, what is this with Ryan going shopping with another dude? You're either shopping alone or you're shopping with your partner. Does that mean that's Ryan's partner? There have been speculations...a lot of it, that he is gay but he's yet to come out of the closet. But something happened between Ryan and Simon Cowell on yesterday's edition of American Idol.

In case you missed it.......this is what happened

Ryan Seacrest: "We have a question from Georgia. What do you consider the hardest part of this contest?"

Melinda Doolittle: "Wow. I would have to say the high heels and these dresses. I like my tennis shoes and my sweat pants. I'm sorry."

Seacrest: "Simon, any advice on the high heels?"

Cowell: "You should know, Ryan."

Seacrest: "Stay out of my closet, Simon."

Cowell: "Well, come out."

Seacrest: "This is about the top twelve. Okay? Not your wishes...We're friends."

It's moments like this that make reality TV great to watch.

Is Ryan gay? That would be soooo sad!

ANGELINA AND BRAD'S NEW SON.

Say hello to Pax Thien Jolie Pitt, Angelina and Brad's new son.

His name means Peaceful Sky - Pax is peace in Latin and Thien is sky in Vietnamese.

Jolie and big brother Maddox picked up the little boy, three and a half years old, yesterday Thursday March 15th in Vietnam.

This little boy's fortune has changed for the better. I'm sure he doesn't know how lucky he is yet. From being an orphan to being adopted by the world's most celebrated couple, who are both stupendously rich. Why did Angelina Jolie single him out? What was special about him? His father or mother or an ancestor must have done something right in the past. Their goodness have manifested in this boy's life.

Sometime's when we are blessed, it's not neccessarily because we are good or have been good, it just might because of something someone in our family did a long long time ago. How many of you agree with me?

THE FACE OF EVIL.

Khalid Sheikh Mohammed

Khalid Sheikh Mohammed is his name and he has just confessed to being the mastermind behind 28 terror attacks, including the horrendous events of September 11th.

According to a transcript released Wednesday by the Pentagon, Mohammed confessed to his atrocities during a military hearing at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, this past Saturday.

Hear him - "I was responsible for the 9/11 operation from A to Z," Mohammed said in a statement read during the session.- He also confessed to the beheading of Daniel Pearl, the Wall Street Journal reporter that was abducted in January 2002 in Pakistan while researching a story on Islamic militancy. - The al-Qaida operative's confession connects him to dozens of the worst terror plots attempted or carried out in the last 15 years - and to others that have not occurred. Thousands have died in operations he directed.- His words draw al-Qaida closer to plots of the early 1990s than the group has previously been connected to, including the 1993 World Trade Center truck bombing. - It also makes clear that al-Qaida wanted to down a second trans-Atlantic aircraft during would-be shoe bomber Richard Reid's operation.

- Mohammed said he was involved in planning the 2002 bombing of a Kenya beach resort frequented by Israelis and the failed missile attack on an Israeli passenger jet after it took off from Mombasa, Kenya.

- He also said he was responsible for the bombing of a nightclub in Bali, Indonesia. In 2002, 202 were killed when two Bali nightclubs were bombed.

- Other plots he said he was responsible for included planned attacks against the Sears Tower in Chicago, the Empire State Building and New York Stock Exchange, the Panama Canal and Big Ben and Heathrow Airport in London - none of which happened. Thankfully!!!

- He said he was involved in planning assassination attempts against former Presidents Carter and Clinton, attacks on U.S. nuclear power plants and suspension bridges in New York, the destruction of American andIsraeli embassies in Asia and Australia, attacks on American naval vessels and oil tankers around the world, and an attempt to "destroy" an oil company he said was owned by former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger on Sumatra, Indonesia.

- He also claimed he shared responsibility for assassination attempts against Pope John Paul II and Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf.

- The transcripts also lay out evidence against Mohammed, saying that a computer seized during his capture included detailed information about the Sept. 11 plot -ranging from names and photos of the hijackers to photos of hijacker Mohammad Atta's pilot's license and even letters from al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden.

How can there be so much evil in one person? What turned him into this? I don't like to judge people but this one I will. He doesn't deserve a second chance. May he burn in hell and dine with devil for the rest of eternity.

NOTORIOUS B.I.G STILL NUMER ONE!

He's been dead for over a decade, but the Notorious B.I.G. has the #1 album in America this week.

Biggie's Greatest Hits sold 90,000 copies to debut at the top of the Billboard charts.

Alt rockers Arcade Fire secured the #2 position, selling 92,000 copies of their sophomore album 'Neon Bible'.

And, American Idol alum Chris Daughtry rounds out the top three with his debut CD.

On the singles side, Fergie has the #1 song in America. Her single, 'Glamorous', jumped from #8 to #1 this week.

Unfortunately for Avril Lavigne, her new single, 'Girlfriend', has already started to decline, despite being on the charts less than a handful of weeks. 'Girlfriend' slips from #5 to #9 this week

CRAZY WEEKEND.

This weekend is going to be off da' hook. There are three greats shows taking place.

On Saturday March 17th is HipHop World Awards, which is taking place at the Muson Center Onikan, Lagos. That's the show everyone is looking forward to.

Then on Sunday March 18th is City People's Annual Award for Excellence, happening at the Expo Hall of Le' Meridian Eko Hotel

And last but not the list is the long anticipated comedy show by up-coming comedian AY, and that one is happening at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, also on Sunday March 18th

I have tickets to go see all three events but no way on earth am I going to go see three shows in 2 days. It will freak me out. Can only go to one and I will give Y'all first hand gists from the event I attend. So which should I attend?

ISAIAH WASHINGTON REACHES OUT TO AFRICA.

I'm sure you all know the 'wahala' this guy has been going through since last year after calling one of his cast mates in Grey's Anatomy,TR Knight, a faggot. Maybe he shouldn't have done that, a hostile environment isn't ideal for work, nothing productive will come out of it, I understand that, but on second thought there's freedom of expression isn't there? The American public and especially the press have blown it all out of propotion. At a point, an online petition was sent to bosses at ABC asking the network to fire Washington, and was signed by over 9,000 people. Instead of sacking him, the execs insisted on Isaiah going to a treatment facility to seek help. For what? Calling a gay guy a faggot? I think that was too drastic.

Anyway in a bid to redeem his image in the eyes of the world, Isaiah recently made a donation in the amount of $25,000 to help fund a project about Sierra Leone.

He doesn't need to redeem his image in my eyes...He's still a cool dude to me.

KEYSHIA COLE'S LAST NIGHT

I wasn't particularly a Keyshia Cole fan until I heard 'I should have cheated' How many of you love that jam? I love it. It's a song alot of girls can relate to. Keyshia now has a new slamming song called 'Last Night'. Heard it yet??? It's the jam! Technically, it's on Diddy's album Press Play and he's featured on the record. But, it's all about Keyshia Cole. She killed that song!

'Last Night' is just one of those songs you will instantly love. It's very old school Prince and I love it. You guys need to hear it. Go find it!

ABRAMOVICH SET TO DIVORCE WIFE

Irina, wife of Chelsea's owner, Roman Abramovich may get a 'mere' £150 million share of Roman's 11 billion fortune in their divorce settlement. Legal experts said he has saved himself billions by divorcing her in Russia.



He announced that he and former air hostess, Irina, the mother of his five children had agreed to get divorced on a 'consensual basis'. It followed Abramovich, 40, Russia's richest man and one of the world's richest men, being linked to a 24 year old model and Russian socialite, Daria Zhukova.



Unfortunately for Irina, Russian courts are much more favourable to husbands than English ones. Russian law rarely provides for the payment of maintenance while the man is allowed to keep all wealth obtained before the marriage. If Irina had filed for divorce in the UK, she would have gotten at least $1.5 billion but Roman was quicker to have lodged a petition in Russia, preventing the case to be heard in Britain. The two have been married for 15 years.

If my husband was 11 billion pounds rich and I'd been married to him for 15 years, and I'd given him 5 children, and he now wants to leave me for a 24 year old model? No court, be it in Russia, Iran, Irag, Afghanistan or even hell will stop me from getting my fair share of his billions. After giving the best part of my life to him, he has to pass a good share of his money to me...otherwise...hmmm. Anyway, maybe Irina is not as greedy as I am...Good for Roman.

But it's sad when people who have shared so many years together decide they do not want to continue being together...why do things like that happen? Can't they remember how beautiful it once was and hold on to what they once shared? I don't understand divorce. What would make me divorce my husband? If he cheats? Nah! Which man doesn't cheat? How many husbands will you divorce? But if he hits me. I'm gone.

WEST AFRICAN IDOL CREATORS THINK WEST AFRICANS ARE DUMB!

How many of you are ardent viewers of West African Idol? I am and I can tell you I'm not very pleased with the way things are going with the show. First and foremost, the MC isn't ideal, secondly the venue of the show (Planet One) is too dark. You can barely see members of the audience and thirdly, there aren't people sitting behind the judegs. All you see are so many empty seats behind them. This is not right is it? It makes the whole thing seem tacky to me.

Of all the craziness going on with this show, the worst of it all and undoubtedly the most annoying is this attitude of asking judges and contestants to repeat thesame outfits they wore the previous day, the following day, so that the viewers can recognise them from the day before. What kind of craziness is that? You see a contestant wearing a particular outfit for his/her performance, then the following day (I want to believe it's the following day and not pre-recorded), the contestants are adorning thesame outfit. I really didn't understand the stupidity of it all until the presenter Mike Magic later let us know that it was a deliberate action from the producers of the show to enable us West Africans recognise the contestants from the night before and be sure we are voting for the right person. What's that? South Africans think West Africans can't recognise individuals if they are not wearing thesame outfits? Are we that dump? Is that what they think? We won't recognise Dan Foster, Dede Mabiaku and Nana if they weren't wearing thesame outfit? Some of the best doctor, lawyers, bankers etc in the world are Nigerians. I can say safely here that Nigerians are probably more read than South Africans. So thinking we will not remember who our favourites were because they are not wearing thesame outfit is a bit too much. We are way smarter than they think. Was such done in South African Idol? I don't think so. I hope they stop that rubbish asap. It's really annoying and portrays us as small minded people.

I hope I don't get on anyone's nerves but I like to say things like I feel it. I'm thinking that the creators of West African Idol do not want WA Idol to be better than South African Idol. Maybe the producers, directors, and crew of WA Idol realize that it has the potential to to be better than SA Idol and so, do not put their all in it. If you go to the WA Idol website and check the comments, you'll notice that almost everyone is saying that SA Idol is far better that WA Idol. Is that what the creators of WA Idol want? Even the website isn't up to standard. The production of the show is technically lazy or maybe the crew aren't motivated? Because they just keep taking shortcuts and think we will be too dump to recognice or see the difference. I'm thinking they probably won't get away with this if it's SA Idol. The director of this programme is tripping seriously. They can do so much better. I hope changes are effected soon.

On the good side, statistics have proven that WA Idol is a hit show, People are really feeling it, if only they can think of other ways to up the standard of show, it will be so great. It's a powerful show, full of talent and since this is the first edition, it can only get better. One day, West African Idol will produce world-class talents like Lemar, Angelique Kidjo, Sade, Seal etc. We are that talented. Mnet should just be as passionate as alot of us are in searching for the best that West Africa has to offer.

LAW IN SOUTH AFRICA.

Two recent court cases, have earned the attention of newspaper readers in South Africa .

1. One person was fined R1 000 for not having a TV license.
2. Another was released on bail for R500 after being arrested for murder .

The moral of this South African story?
If you do not have a TV license and the inspector comes round, kill him. You'll save R500. ....It's the Right Thing To Do....

CHARLY BOY'S PRIVATE PART.

A journalist by training, TV producer and musician by talent, a human rights activist and social critic by conscience. Charly boy has over the years metamorphosised into the personality of whom we all have one opinoin or the other. Opinions ranging from complimantary to uncomplimantary, negative to positive, love to hatred. with Charly boy you either love him or hate him.

Now, the restless Charly boy as delved into a new vocation: writing. He has just released a book about his life which he calls 'My Private Part'. The book is about everything and anything you want to know about him. The story of Charly boy as told by Charly Boy. No cover-ups. No hypocrisy. No pretences.

I remember once being very wary of Charly Boy. He has this larger than life image that just makes him unapproachable. But I was pleasantly surprised when one day I got the rare opportunity of meeting Charly boy through his cousin Dr Alban who is a very good friend of mine. After spending over three hours with this enigma man, he became very ordinay to me...in a good way. How many of you will believe Charly Boy is a softie and a bit shy? Hard to believe right? Trust me it's all barks, no bites.

Anyway, Charly Boy's book launch was yesterday March 15th at the Shehu Yar'Adua Center, Abuja.

If you find the book, buy it! Something tells me you won't regret it. There's just so much to learn from that man.

NEWS FROM NIGERIA.

ATIKU NOT ON INEC LIST, GOES TO COURT.
The Independent Electoral Commission yesterday March 15th formally released the list of the cleared candidates for the April 21 Presidential elections without the name of Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who is the flagbearer of the Action Congress. The AC and Atiku Abubakar immediately filed an action at the Federal high Court, Abuja to challenge INEC's action. Altogether the names of twenty four Presidential candidates and their running mates were released by INEC.

SENATE CURBS PRESIDENT'S POWER TO EFCC BOSS, OTHERS.
Drastic changes have been effected in the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Act by the Senate which yesterday March 15th concluded the bill to amend the law. One of the profound amendment to the act was the removal of the powers of the President to sack the EFCC Chaiman or any member of the commission without the consent of the Senate.

MILITANTS FREE ITALIAN HOSTAGES
Yesterday March 15th, another group of militants, The Movement for the Emancipation of Niger Delta (MEND) announced the release of two Italian hostages who are on the staff of the Nigerian Agip Oil Comapny. Their names were given as Cosma Russo and Fracio Arena. The two were abducted ninety eight days ago.

ICPC TO PROBE 38 BILLION ABACHA LOOT
The Independent Corrupt Practices Commission has promised to investigate allegation that the 38billion recovered from the funds looted by the late head of state General Sani Abacha was missing. The commission also pedged to exediate the matter.

I APPRECIATE YOU ALL!!!

I have been getting great comments from y'all. Thank you so much. There's nothing better than knowing that people appreciate what you are doing...whatever that is. I know alot of you will be wondering how I have time to load things up everyday...like I said earlier, I run my own business, so my time is my time, don't have to answer to anyone, and better yet, I love writing. I have a Magazine, a website for my Mag and I've written so many articles, poems, short stories etc. Sometimes I use aliases. I've had columns in two major softsell magazines over here in Nigeria. What can I say? I love writing. Right now I'm working on a book...infact I'm thinking of loading each chapter of my book on this blog for your appraisal and enjoyment. Would you guys like that? Ley me know.

I will follow your advice and go check out other blogs, I'm still trying to figure out how to leave comments...I'd appreciate someone giving me instructions.

Still need advert for my blog. Help me if you can.

love y'all

hihi

linda

P.S (What does p.s mean by the way?) Check out my 'Days that shook Nigeria'. It took me a whole day to put that list together. I need more people to see it...more comments. Thanks everyone.

MRS SOMEBODY!!!

Hello Mrs Somebody. Tried to leave a comment on your blog, couldn't. I'd appreciate if you can help me advertise my blog in anyway you can. Not just Mrs Somebody but anyone going through this blog and thinks can help...I'd really appreciate it.

xoxo

linda

SICKLE CELL ANEMIA.

Some days ago, my neighbour lost his last child to Sickle Cell Anemia. His two other children died some years ago. The mistake he made was that he married a woman with Sickle Cell. He also had it. It's sad that at this day and age people still take little things like this for granted. Couples need to test themselves before getting married and bringing poor innocent souls into the world.

I went searching to find out more about this disease and here are a few things to know about Sickle Cell Anemia.

Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary disorder that mostly affects people of African ancestry, but also occurs in other ethnic groups, including people who are of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern descent.

Sickle cell anemia occurs when a person inherits two abnormal genes (one from each parent) that cause their red blood cells to change shape. Instead of being flexible and round, these cells are more rigid and curved in the shape of the farm tool known as a sickle - that's where the disease gets its name. The shape is similar to a crescent moon.

Sickle cell anemia is a blood disorder that affects hemoglobin (pronounced: hee-muh-glow-bin), a protein found in red blood cells that helps carry oxygen throughout the body.

Red blood cells with normal hemoglobin (HbA) move easily through the bloodstream, delivering oxygen to all of the cells of the body. Normal red blood cells are shaped like doughnuts with the centers partially scooped out and are soft and flexible.

Sickle cell anemia occurs when an abnormal form of hemoglobin (HbS) is produced. HbS molecules tend to clump together, making red blood cells sticky, stiff, and more fragile, and causing them to form into a curved, sickle shape. Red blood cells containing HbS can go back and forth between being shaped normally and being sickle shaped until they eventually become sickle shaped permanently. Instead of moving through the bloodstream easily, these sickle cells can clog blood vessels and deprive the body's tissues and organs of the oxygen they need to stay healthy.

Sickle cell anemia occurs when an abnormal form of hemoglobin (HbS) is produced. HbS molecules tend to clump together, making red blood cells sticky, stiff, and more fragile, and causing them to form into a curved, sickle shape. Red blood cells containing HbS can go back and forth between being shaped normally and being sickle shaped until they eventually become sickle shaped permanently. Instead of moving through the bloodstream easily, these sickle cells can clog blood vessels and deprive the body's tissues and organs of the oxygen they need to stay healthy.

Signs and Symptoms
Teens with sickle cell anemia may develop jaundice (pronounced: jon-dis), a condition that results from the high rate of red blood cell breakdown. Jaundice can cause the skin and the whites of a person's eyes to develop a yellowish tint.

People with sickle cell anemia also may have bouts of pain in the chest, stomach, arms, legs, or other parts of the body. This is caused by sickle cells blocking blood flow through the blood vessels. Feeling tired and having trouble fighting infections are also common among teens with sickle cell anemia, and they may grow more slowly and reach puberty later than other teens.What Do Doctors Do?

To diagnose sickle cell anemia, doctors use a blood test called hemoglobin electrophoresis (pronounced: hee-muh-glow-bin eh-lek-truh-fuh-ree-sis) to look for HbS in a person's blood.
There is no cure for sickle cell anemia, and it is possible for some people to die from the disease (although most young people with sickle cell anemia don't die). Doctors can provide treatments that help prevent complications from the disease, though.

Folic acid, a vitamin that helps the body produce new red blood cells, is often prescribed for teens with sickle cell anemia. Pain medications help relieve the symptoms of crises. And kids and teens who have sickle cell disease often take penicillin or other antibiotics to help fight infections.

Some crises can be managed at home with pain medicines, rest, and extra fluids. But if a crisis is especially intense, the person may need to go to the hospital for intravenous (IV) fluids and stronger pain medications.

People with sickle cell anemia may also use oxygen to help ease symptoms during a crisis or an episode of acute chest syndrome.What Can You Do to Stay Well?
With the right precautions, teens with sickle cell disease can do most of the stuff other teens do.

To stay as healthy as possible, people with sickle cell anemia should take these steps:
. Eat a balanced, healthy diet.
. Take vitamins, including folic acid supplements, as prescribed.
. Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
. Avoid extreme cold or heat.
. Exercise regularly, but in moderation. Exercise is important for staying healthy, but overdoing it can trigger a crisis in some people, particularly if they become dehydrated, overheated, or exhausted.
. Get plenty of rest.
. Avoid alcohol, drugs, and smoking, which can aggravate sickle cell disease and its symptoms. Some people with sickle cell disease are prone to lung problems, so smoking is particularly risky.
Avoid places low in oxygen. (For example, it's not a good idea to go hiking at high altitudes or spend lots of time swimming under water.)
Prevent serious infections by contacting your doctor as soon as illness symptoms start. Be sure to get any immunizations (such as pneumonia and flu vaccines) that the doctor recommends.
Learn as much as you can about the disease and see your doctor regularly to help prevent complications.

There are some limits that people with sickle cell disease may need to put on their lives, but with the help of doctors, friends, and family, teens with sickle cell anemia can manage the disease and live their lives to the fullest.

Insist on a test before getting hitched

NEWS FROM NIGERIA.

FG SCRAPS HND PROGRAMMES
The Federal Executive Council on Wednesday March 14th banned Polytechnics from awarding the National Diploma Certificates. With this decision, Polytechnics will no longer admit students for HND programmes. However, the current set of HND students will be allowed to complete their programmes. Under the new dispensation, students in the consolidated polytechnics will graduate with Bachelor of Technology Degree (B/Tech). Notwithstanding the policy shift, the Government will continue to recognise HND's.

2 KILLED, 40 HOUSES BURNT IN RIVERS STATE
Two people were killed and 40 houses destroyed during a violence on wednesday March 14th in Edagberi, Ahoada West Local Govt Area of Rivers State. It was learnt that the violence was sparked off by the release of the result of an election to select a new Chief for the area. According to sources, one chief Onisoman Zudonu emerged as the paramount ruler of Edagberi in the election conducted on March 1st. Apparently dissatisfied with the result, some gun wielding youths stormed Zudonu's house and asked him to forget the throne or loose his life. Although the Chief escaped, the armed men attacked his home and killed his secretary and one other person. Riot police were deployed in the community by Authorities of the State Command to quell the crisis.

NO GOING BACK ON AMENDMENT OF EFCC ACT - SENATE PRESIDENT
The President of the Senate, Chief Ken Nnamani on Wednesday March 14th insisted there was no going back on the decision of the Senate to amend the Act establishing the EFCC. Nnamani said he was interested in the war against corruption being carried through due process. According to Nnamani "He is concerned that this war be effective and not be compromised by special interests that may hide under the toga of Presidential Politics to weaken the effectiveness of the EFCC" The Senate wants the EFCC to be independent of any interference from the Presidency.

INEC MAY ADOPT MODIFIED OPEN SECRET VOTING SYSTEM.
There are indications in Abuja that the Independent National Electoral Commission may adopt the modified open secret ballot system for the April general elections. A source in Inec who made this known on Wednesday said that the system was being considered because of the by the insistence by some political parties that it was the best voting method for the country.

WHO IS NAIJA'S FINEST BOBO?

Desmond Elliot

D' Banj


Jim Iyke


Obaro Ibru


Alex Okosi

Dare Art Alade

Tuface Idibia

Ramsey Noah

Ruggedman

Chidi Mokeme

Who is Nigeria's finest man? I am going for Alex Okosi. I've seen him real life and for the first time in my life I felt like toasting a guy? Or did I toast him? Can't remember...lol. The guy is breathtaking. Some women are so lucky. So who is your own finest Naija bobo?

DESIGNS FROM AFRICA.

Aziza

Mustafa Hasanali from Tanzania

Teddy Legbedion

Thula Sindi

Fred Eboka from South Africa

Fred Eboka from South Africa

Sylvia Aworu from Uganda

Tiffany Amber from Nigeria


African Mosaique From Ethiopia

Blokes N Divas from Nigeria

Eboka from South Africa

Dakova From Nigeria

Estella Doualla from Cameroun.

Aren't these designers fantastic? There is definitely talent in this Continent. What we don't have is that many opportunities to showcase it. Who is your best African Designer?

OBASANJO BLOCKS LAGOS ROADS.

Yesterday was a crazy day for most Lagosians. When I say crazy, I mean really crazy. Especially for those who live on the Island. Or work on the Island, or had business on the Island. Obasanjo was in town and had to be somewhere on Victoria Island. And you know what his pips did? They blocked all the roads leading to VI for more than three hours before his scheduled arrival. It was not like he was on his way, they just blocked the roads because he was going to be using it later that morning. So nobody was allowed to move. People in their vehicles had to wait from about 8am till about 11:30 am before they could access the Falomo bridge, the only bridge linking Ikoyi to Victoria Island. After that, one of the busiest roads on the Island, Adeola Odeku and several roads were blocked too. Only God knows where exactly he was going to but he sure did mess the day up for so many people on the Island. The craziness lasted all day long. Till 8:30 in the night, people were still stuck in traffic, waiting for him to come and go. Alot of cars were seen abandoned temporarily on the road and I can tell you yesterday was the day for 'Okada' riders as people had no choice but to use that means of transportation to get around...it was sick.

This country isn't improving. For those of us who live here, I can tell you we are suffering and smiling.

WORLD'S SEXIEST WOMAN OF ALL TIME?

Angelina Jolie was recently voted world's 'Sexiest woman of all time'. She is very sexy but the sexiest of all time? Please...Marylin Monroe was listed as number 5. In my estimation Marilyn is far sexier than Angelina. Naomi Campbell is sexier than Angelina. Beyonce is Sexier than Angelina. Heidi Klum is sexier than Angelina. Pryinka Chopra and Ashwarya Rai are sexier than Angelina. Someone please give me more names...

I don't know if this guys in Hollywood think there are no sexy women in Africa, Asia or other parts of the worl? Hollywood is the world? Almost all the names on that list are hollywood actresses. They should have named it 'Hollywood sexiest women of all time'. Hmmm!!

But check Angelina's pout...really sexy!!

HI JANE!

Hi Jane. I see you've been leaving me comments. Thanks love. Call me soon. Miss you!

By the way, Jane is my best friend. She lives in the UK with her husband and kids

COMMENTS.

I have been getting comments...that makes me so happy. I know some of you will be wondering how I have time to always load my blog? Well I am my own madam. I run my own company so my time is mine. Whenever I have time on my hand, I pick my laptop and do my thing. Besides time, I love writing. Nothing brings me greater joy...except being on a runway...and kissing...and watching movies...and...

I think you guys should check out 'The days that shook Nigeria' list that I put together some days ago. It took me a whole day to that so I'll appreciate it if you read it and leave me a comment. Alrighty?

LADY IN RED

Beyonce was recently listed as number 5 on the list of the 'Sexiest women of all time'. Angelina Jolie came first. That to me is biggest hoax of the century. Angelina is a beautiful and sexy no doubt but the sexiest of all time? No way! Beyonce might not be the sexiest woman of all time but she is far sexier than Angelina. What do you guys think?

TIPS FOR TAKING CARE OF YOUR SKIN

Here are some tips to help prevent breakouts and clear them up as fast as possible:

1.Wash your face twice a day (no more) with warm water and a mild soap made for people with acne. Gently massage your face with circular motions. Don't scrub. Overwashing and scrubbing can cause skin to become irritated. After cleansing, the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends applying an over-the-counter (no prescription needed) lotion containing benzoyl peroxide.

2. Don't pop pimples. It's tempting, but here's why you shouldn't: Popping pimples can push infected material further into the skin, leading to more swelling and redness, and even scarring. If you notice a pimple coming before a big event, like the prom, a dermatologist can often treat it for you with less risk of scarring or infection.

3. Avoid touching your face with your fingers or leaning your face on objects that collect sebum and skin residue like the telephone receiver. Touching your face can spread the bacteria that cause pores to become inflamed and irritated. To keep bacteria at bay, wash your hands before applying anything to your face, such as treatment creams or makeup.

4. If you wear glasses or sunglasses, make sure you clean them frequently to keep oil from clogging the pores around your eyes and nose.

5. If you get acne on your body, try not to wear tight clothes, which don't allow skin to breathe and may cause irritation. You also might want to stay away from scarves, headbands, and caps, which can collect dirt and oil, too.

6. Remove your makeup before you go to sleep. When buying makeup, make sure you choose brands that say "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" on the label. Throw away old makeup that smells or looks different from when you first bought it.

7. Keep hair clean and out of your face to prevent additional dirt and oil from clogging your pores.

8. Protect your skin from the sun. It may seem like a tan masks acne, but it's only temporary. A tan can cause the body to produce extra sebum, which may worsen your acne, not improve it. Tanning also causes damage to skin that will eventually lead to wrinkles and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Hope this helps some of you who are having skin problems

AS AND AS: PLS DON'T DO IT.

My neighbour's child just died this morning. He was 12 and he's been in the hospital since last week Monday. My neighbour had 3 kids. The first one died in 1999 at 13years old, the second one died in 2004 at age 9 and this one just joined his sibblings. All his children are dead. What killed them? My neighbour is As and married a woman with AS. Sad right?

BLOGS I LOVE.

Bella Naija
Naija Gal
Funmi Iyanda
Adaure
Kisses and Roses
Naira Land

Check them out.

PRECAUTIONS FOR CANCER!!!

Spending some few minutes to read this will be an investment to your life. It is very informative and very useful.
1. Every person has cancer cells in the body. These cancer cells do not show up in the standard tests until they have multiplied to a few billion. When doctors tell cancer patients that there are no more cancer cells in their bodies after treatment, it just means the tests are unable to detect the cancer cells because they have not reached the detectable size.
2. Cancer cells occur between 6 to more than 10 times in a person's lifetime.
3. When the person's immune system is strong the cancer cells will be destroyed and prevented from multiplying and forming tumours.
4. When a person has cancer it indicates the person has multiple nutritional deficiencies. These could be due to genetic, environmental, food and lifestyle factors.
5. To overcome the multiple nutritional deficiencies, changing diet and including supplements will strengthen the immune system.
6. Chemotherapy involves poisoning the rapidly-growing cancer cells and also destroys rapidly-growing healthy cells in the bone marrow, gastro-intestinal tract etc, and can cause organ damage, like liver, kidneys, heart, lungs etc.
7. Radiation while destroying cancer cells also burns, scars and damages healthy cells, tissues and organs.
8. Initial treatment with chemotherapy and radiation will often reduce tumor size. However prolonged use of chemotherapy and radiation do not result in more tumor destruction.
9. When the body has too much toxic burden from chemotherapy and radiation the immune system is either compromised or destroyed, hence the person can succumb to various kinds of infections and complications.
10. Chemotherapy and radiation can cause cancer cells to mutate and become resistant and difficult to destroy. Surgery can also cause cancer cells to spread to other sites.
11. An effective way to battle cancer is to starve the cancer cells by not feeding it with the foods it needs to multiply. CANCER CELLS FEED ON: a. Sugar is a cancer-feeder. By cutting off sugar it cuts off one important food supply to the cancer cells. Sugar substitutes like NutraSweet, Equal, Spoonful, etc are made with Aspartame and it is harmful. A better natural substitute would be Manuka honey or molasses but only in very small amounts. Table salt has a chemical added to make it white in colour. Better alternative is Bragg 's aminos or sea salt.
b. Milk causes the body to produce mucus, especially in the gastro-intestinal tract. Cancer feeds on mucus. By cutting off milk and substituting with unsweetened soya milk cancer cells are being starved.
c. Cancer cells thrive in an acid environment. A meat-based diet is acidic and it is best to eat fish, and a little chicken rather than beef or pork. Meat also contains livestock antibiotics, growth hormones and parasites, which are all harmful, especially to people with cancer.
d. A diet made of 80% fresh vegetables and juice, whole grains, seeds, nuts and a little fruits help put the body into an alkaline environment. About 20% can be from cooked food including beans. Fresh vegetable juices provide live enzymes that are easily absorbed and reach down to cellular levels within 15 minutes to nourish and enhance growth of healthy cells. To obtain live enzymes for building healthy cells try and drink fresh vegetable juice (most vegetables including bean sprouts)and eat some raw vegetables 2 or 3 times a day. Enzymes are destroyed at temperatures of 104 degrees F (40 degrees C).
e. Avoid coffee, tea, and chocolate, which have high caffeine. Green tea is a better alternative and has cancer-fighting properties. Water-best to drink purified water, or filtered, to avoid known toxins and heavy metals in tap water. Distilled water is acidic, avoid it.
12. Meat protein is difficult to digest and requires a lot of digestive enzymes. Undigested meat remaining in the intestines become putrefied and leads to more toxic buildup.
13. Cancer cell walls have a tough protein covering. By refraining from or eating less meat it frees more enzymes to attack the protein walls of cancer cells and allows the body's killer cells to destroy the cancer cells.14. Some supplements build up the immune system (IP6, Flor-ssence,Essiac, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, EFAs etc.) to enable the body's own killer cells to destroy cancer cells. Other supplements like vitamin E are known to cause apoptosis, or programmed cell death, the body's normal method of disposing of damaged, unwanted, or unneeded cells.
15. Cancer is a disease of the mind, body, and spirit. A proactive and positive spirit will help the cancer warrior be a survivor. Anger, unforgiveness and bitterness put the body into a stressful and acidic environment. Learn to have a loving and forgiving spirit. Learn to relax and enjoy life.
16. Cancer cells cannot thrive in an oxygenated environment. Exercising daily, and deep breathing help to get more oxygen down to the cellular level. Oxygen therapy is another means employed to destroy cancer cells.

NEWS FROM NIGERIA.

DARIYE RE-INSTATED.
Erstwhile Governor of Plateau State who was impeached by the State's National Assembly has been re-instated by the court as the Governor of Plateau State but he is said to still be hiding. He has demended the restoration of his immunity and security before resuming office.

NNPC EMPLOYS 426 GRADUATES FROM NIGER-DELTA.
NNPC yesterday March 12th, admitted into it's fold 1, 000 new graduate employees out of which 426 are from the oil producing states in the Niger-Delta. NNPC engaged the first set of 100 trainees in 2000, 2001 and 2002, 100 in 2003 and another 607 graduate technologist trainees and plant operators in 2005.

MILITANTS INVADE NLNG BOAT.
Two policemen escorting a Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas from Port-Harcourt to Bonny Island in Rivers were yesterday MondayMarch 12th, killed by suspected militants who attacked the boat. They were attacked around the Okrika channel. The passengers were robbed while the policemen were shot dead.

NEWS FROM NIGERIA.

TINUBU, FASHOLA ESCAPE GUN ATTACK.
Two people were killed on Monday 12th March at an election rally in Lagos where Lagos State Governor, Bola Tinubu and AC Governorship aspirant, Babatunde Fashola (SAN), had to be whisked away by security agents. A policeman attached to the Governor was reported shot in the head. Several vehicles were destroyed and a number of shops were also set on fire by suspected political thugs who invaded the open playing ground opposite the Alesh Hotel, Ajah, venue of the rally. Eyewitnesses said hoodlums numbering about 100 invaded the venue with various weapons of war, including guns, machetes, broken bottles, charms and started shooting sporadically.

Tinubu has blamed his political opponents, vowing to bring the perpetators of the violence to book.

COMMISSIONING OF NOUN.
The commissioning of the headquarters of the National Open University of Nigeria is today March 13th at the NOUN headquarters at 14/16 Ahmed Bello Way, Victoria Island, Lagos at 11am. It will be commisioned by President Olusegun Obasanjo.

TROOPS RESCUE THREE EXPATRIATE HOSTAGES FROM MILITANTS.
Twenty two days after they were abducted by some militant youths at Rumuolumeni near Port Harcourt, Rivers State, three Croatians were yesterday March 12th rescued by men of the joint task force comprising of the Navy, Air force, Army, Police and the State Security Service SSS. The Croatians who work for an engineering company, Hydro-dibe in Port-Harcourt were abducted from a bar on Februay 18th and taken into the creeks by about six gun men. The hostages were being held captive at Ogbakiri in the state and the task force carried out the operation in the dead of the night. After the operation that lasted till 4.00am, the rescued men were driven to the office of the SSS Director who directed that they be taken to a clinic in Port-Harcourt for medical examination, after which the men were handed over to their employees. One of the militants was said to have died in the raid

DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE KARYN WHITE IS?

Does anyone know where Karyn White is? This woman sang two of my all time favourite songs 'Superwoman' and 'Can I stay with you'. I haven't heard anything about her in years. No new songs, no news, no nothing. Please who knows where this woman is ?

WHAT A FAMILY.

Imagine having not one…not two…not three…but four babies at once. In March 2005, Shelly and Eric welcomed four little miracles into the world. Though multiple births aren't unusual, these little girls have one quality that sets them apart from the pack—they are identical!

With only 44 sets of identical quads ever recorded, Adele, Bonnie, Chloe and Daphne—who were conceived without help from fertility drugs—made headlines.

Though the quadruplets are growing up happy and healthy, the family is dealing with one dilemma…even their mom, an identical twin herself, can't tell them apart. "I look at them and I can't tell the difference to save my life!" Shelly says.

To prevent mix ups, the family created a "dot system." Each baby now has a pinpoint tattoo on the bottom of a different toe.

Keeping up with the quads and their big brother Logan may be exhausting, but Shelly and Eric wouldn't have it any other way. "I look at all of them and love them so much," Shelly says. "I can't imagine not having them."

This is from Oprah's show.

ICC CRICKET CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT 2007

For those of you who love cricket or Baseball as the Americans would like to call, the 2007 tournament has started. It was declared open by the ICC President on Sunday March 11th. It's showing on Super Sports.

I don't understand this game in anyway at all. Anybody who knows what's it's all about should please tell me. All I see are guys throwing balls, some swinging a bat to hit the ball and others running after the ball. I'm sure there is more to it, grown men can't just be running around in the field can they? Someone please tell me what cricket is all about.

THE WORST THING ABOUT WEST AFRICAN IDOL.

The worst thing about West Africa Idol I think is the presenter, Magical Michael or Mike Magic or whatever his name is. No offence but I don't think this guy qualifies to present something so big...they should have gotten a more professional presenter who has been doing this for so long. Someone with a better accent, who can read from a teleprompter and not make it obvious, someone who can ask intelligent questions and have a comeback to everything said. All he has is good looks and that's not good enough. I'm sorry but that's how I feel about it.

I heard Dare Art Alade was their first choice but he turned it down because of the pay. He said it was too small. Then he changed his mind and wanted the job, but it was too late. They had already given it to MikeMagic.

Seriously, I think they should drop MikeMagic...and the female 'it doesn't work for me' judge from Ghana. Girl, you don't work for me either, sorry!

THE AMAA AWARDS 2007.

The African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) held on Saturday March in Bayelsa State. I wasn't there live but I watched some of it on television. My favourite Black American actor Cuba Gooding Jr was there live and guess who else? Mo'nique, from Miss Parkers. They came all the way from the USA to commensurate with their colleagues in Africa. They seem to be have both enjoyed all the attention they got.

The MC of the event was Richard Mofe Damijo and some girl from South Africa. Can't remember her name...sorry! But she was beautiful though.

Kilnt de Drunk, Tuface, Muma gee performed.

Winners
Best Actress
Chioma Chukwuka

Best Actor
Olu Jacobs

Best Support Actress
An Actress from Ghana

Best Support Actor
Don't know

Best Picture
Sitanda

Best Director
The Director of the movie Sitanda. (Sorry, don't know his name)

Best Cinematography
Amazing grace

This is shabby reporting right? Well like I said earlier I watched very little of it on Television. I typed on google to see if I'll find any information on the awards...for where? The crazy thing about Nigeria is that we hardly have stuff about us on the internet. An hour after a Grammy award, or an oscar you'll find anything you want on the internet about this awards, but in Nigeria, three days later there's no information. Sad right? I'll see if I can find their website and give those of you interested a list of nominees and winners.

ALL ABOUT MARIO VASQUEZ

There are two things I just found out about this guy whose song 'Gallery' I love to bits. 1. just found out he was a finalist in the 2005 edition of American Idols and 2. He is gay? That hurts too much. How can guys this fine not love women? What's wrong with this world? Someone please tell me it's not true. By the way he is a Puerto Rican-American singer from the Bronx and was born on June 15th, 1977.

NEWS FROM NIGERIA.

ATIKU INJURED,FLOWN ABROAD.
Nigeria's Vice President Atiku Abubakar was on sunday 11th March injured while having an exerceise in a gym at his residence in Abuja. He was said to have tripped on one of the machines he was using. He had a dislocation on his knee and it became instantly difficult for him to walk. The VP later on made a this statement to the press 'I broke my knee tendon. I will need a 30-minute surgery and I'm going to London for the operation. The president was gracious enough to give me an aircraft. I hope to be back on Tuesday or Wednesday to resume my campaign.

We're still expecting him back in Nigeria.

GUNMEN KILL OWU CHIEF, THREE OTHERS.
No fewer than four people, including an Owu chief, Adedotun Sowole, died on Saturday March 10th, when gunmen invaded the venue of a meeting at Atan in Ado-Odo/Ota Local Government area of Ogun State. Eyewitnesses said village heads and obas were awaiting the Olowu Of Owu, Oba Olusanya Dosunmu, who was schedule to meet with them when the incident happened. investigations carried out showed that Saturday's attack might be linked with the crisis that greeted the installation of the coronet obas last year. The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Mr Olufemi Awoyale confirmed the incident. He also confirmed that four people died, adding that 20 people had been arrested.

CHRIS OKOTIE IN PLANE MISHAP
FRESH Presidential aspirant Rev Chtis Okotie, on Monday 11th March narrowly escaped what could have been a fatal plane crash as the plane he boarded after attending a rally outside Lagos, got into an accident. Eyewitnesses say the tyres of the plane bust as it landed at the Local wing of the Murtala Mohammed Airport, making the plane vie off the runway, but thankfully for everyone aboard, the pilot managed to get control of the plane which was said to be carrying over 110 passengers. After the incident, the pastor turned politician blasted the airport authorities for their non-chalant attitude towards airport and plane maintenance.

PAY RISE FOR PRESIDENT, VP, OTHERS.
Barely three months to the end of his administration, President Olusegun Obasanjo has sent a new bill to the National Assembly seeking an enhanced pay package for himself, Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Idris Kutigi, among others. If passed into law, the bill will raise the basic salary of the President to N3.5m per annum, the VP N3m and the Chief Justice N3.4m. At the end of the administration on May 29th, the bill provides a severance allowance of N10.6m for the President, an equivalent of 300 percent of his annual salary.

INEC VS NBA
The Nigerian Bar Association has faulted the claims by the Independent National Electoral Commission that it has power to screen and disqualify candidates for the April poll. The association in a letter dated March 9 and addressed to the INEC's legal adviser by it's National President, Mr Olisa Agbakoba (SAN), the NBA reminded the electoral body that the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act did not give such power to INEC. "He said the power to disqualify any candidate squarely rests with the court". Agbakoba also urged the commission to follow the due process, noting that the conduct of the April elections was a serious business that required the support of all the stakeholders.

UBA OPENS NEW YORK OFFICE
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Professor Chukwuma Soludo on Friday March 9th declared open the new offices of the United Bank of Africa Plc, at the Rockefeller Plaza, located in the heart of New York's financial capital. A statement from the bank on Sunday quoted the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr Tony Elumelu as describing UBA as the only Sub-Saharan African Bank operating in the United States of America, which is regulated by the office of the Comptroller of Currency.

2007 SOUL TRAIN MUSIC AWARDS.

The 2007 edition of the SOUL TRAIN MUSIC AWARDS held yesterday March 10, at the Pasadena Civic Center in Pasadena, Calif. The complete list of categories and winners are listed below. Winners of each category are in asterisk (*)

Best R&B/Soul Single, Female:
* Beyoncé - "Irreplaceable"
Mary J. Blige - "Take Me As I Am"
Keyshia Cole - "Love"
LeToya - "Torn"

Best R&B/Soul Single, Male:
Avant - "4 Minutes"
Chris Brown - "Yo (Excuse Me Miss)"
* John Legend - "Save Room"
Ne-Yo - "Sexy Love"

Best R&B/Soul Single, Group, Band or Duo:
* Gnarls Barkley - "Crazy"
The Isley Brothers Featuring Ronald Isley -
"Just Came Here to Chill"
Jagged Edge- "Good Luck Charm"
The Pussycat Dolls Featuring Avant - "Stickwitu"

Best R&B/Soul Album, Female:
Beyoncé - B’Day
* Mary J. Blige - The Breakthrough
India Arie - Testimony: Vol. I, Life & Relationship
Monica - The Makings of Me

Best R&B/Soul Album, Male:
Chris Brown - Chris Brown
* Jamie Foxx - Unpredictable
John Legend - Once Again
Robin Thicke - The Evolution of Robin Thicke

Best R&B/Soul Album, Group, Band or Duo:
Danity Kane - Danity Kane
Gnarls Barkley - St. Elsewhere
* The Isley Bros. feat. Ronald Isley - Baby Makin' Music
Jagged Edge - Jagged Edge

Best R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist:
Lupe Fiasco - "Gotcha"
* Ne-Yo - "Sexy Love"
Rick Ross - "Hustlin’"
Yung Joc - "It’s Goin’ Down"

Best R&B/Soul or Rap Music Video:
Beyoncé - "Irreplaceable"
Busta Rhymes feat. will.i.am & Kelis - "I Love My Chick"
* Jay-Z - "Show Me What You Got"
Jim Jones - "We Fly High"

Best R&B/Soul or Rap Dance Cut :
Dem Franchize Boyz feat. Lil Peanut & Charlay - "Lean Wit It, Rock Wit It"
Sean Paul - "Give It Up to Me"
* Webstar & Young B feat. The Voice of Harlem - "Chicken Noodle Soup"
Yung Joc - "It’s Goin’ Down"

Best Gospel Album :
The Caravans - Paved the Way
* Kirk Franklin - Songs from the Storm, Volume I
Bishop G.E. Patterson & Congregation - Singing the Old Time Way, Volume II
Youth for Christ - The Struggle is Over

Special Awards:
Outstanding Achievements in Song Writing: Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds.
Entertainer of the Year: Jennifer Hudson.
Outstanding Career Achievements: Jermaine Dupri.

Congrats to everyone who won, especially Ne yo. He really deserves an award for that classic song "So sick"

Entertainer of the year, Jennifer Hudson? Don't agree o! I think that award should have been given to Beyonce. She had a hit Album, hit song, hit movie and most especially she came to Nigeria and sang our national anthem. That was awesome. She should have won it. What do you guys think?

BUSTA RHYMES BANNED FROM FILM SHOOT.

US rapper Busta Rhymes has been banned from the set of a film he is appearing in after police raised security fears.

The movie, Order of Redemption, has started filming in New York without Rhymes, who has had several recent run-ins with the law.

The Mayor's Office of Film, Theatre and Broadcasting said producers agreed his absence after "the Police Department raised public safety concerns".

But the film's director said the move was "tremendously unfair to Busta".

Rhymes, 34, angered New York police a year ago by refusing to speak to them about the murder of his bodyguard.

The rapper declined to talk to officers after seeing Israel Ramirez shot while a music video was being filmed.

I'm beginning not to like this guy. Seriously? He's full of shit. Watch any of his interviews and you'll understand why he's just not it. Crazy ass guy

THE NIGERIAN POLICE ACCORDING TO UN RAPPORTEUR

Nigerian police routinely torture and ill treat suspects, the UN special rapporteur on torture has said.

Manfred Nowak said police shot prisoners, beat them and hung them from the ceiling for long periods. He made his statement after spending a week visiting the country's prisons and other detention facilities.

The police force has denied there is widespread torture in detention cells, saying even if it exists in "isolated cases", it was not official policy.

More than half of Nigeria's prison population has never been convicted of any crime

He said the most common methods included "flogging with whips, beating with batons and machetes, shooting suspects in the foot, threatening suspects with death and shooting them with power cartridges".

"Suspension (of suspects) from the ceiling or metal rods in various positions and being denied food, water and medical treatment" were also used.
"Torture is an intrinsic part of how law enforcement services operate within the country," he said.

I totally agree with this UN rapportuer.

YAR'ADUA BACK IN THE COUNTRY.

Nigeria's ruling party presidential contender, Umaru Yar'Adua, has arrived back in Nigeria and is to resume campaigning for April's election.

He landed in Lagos, after flying to Germany last week for medical tests when he collapsed at a campaign rally.

The 55-year-old is the frontrunner to win the election and has previously suffered from a kidney illness.

His collapse prompted speculation that he could be replaced as the People Democratic Party's candidate.

Yar'Adua told the BBC earlier this week that he had suffered from breathlessness and had taken his doctor's advice to have a thorough medical check-up abroad.

Yar'Adua was a relatively unknown northern Muslim governor before he won the governing party primaries with the backing of President Olusegun Obasanjo - who steps down after two terms in power.

As the governing party's candidate, he is widely considered to be the favourite to become Nigeria's next president

Let's all wait and see

COMEDIAN RICHARD JENI DIES

Comedian and actor Richard Jeni was found dead in his West Hollywood apartment over the weekend, presumably from a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

A loaded gun was reportedly found next to his body.

Jeni's biography claims that he has appeared more on the Tonight Show with Jay Leno than any other stand-up comedian, dating back to when the Tonight Show was hosted by Johnny Carson.
In 2004, Jeni was named number 57 on Comedy Central's list of the 100 greatest standups of all time.

He's a comedian who brings joy to others but couldn't bring joy to his own life. I still don't understand what would make a man take his own life.

It's so sad!