THIRTY of the more than 80 Miss Earth candidates will be in Urdaneta City on October 28, 2007 for the swimsuit competition.
Venue of the swimsuit competition is the Lisland Rainforest Resort located a few meters away from McArthur Highway in Barangay San Vicente in the city.
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Urdaneta Mayor Amadeo Perez Jr. said they would welcome the Miss Earth entourage at the boundary of Urdaneta City and Villasis at 9 a.m.
There will be a motorcade around the city proper. The candidates will stop for a while at the New Public Market before they would proceed to the new Urdaneta City Hall in Barangay Anonas for the tree planting.
Perez said only 600 "paying" viewers/audience (fee includes dinner) would be accommodated inside during the swimsuit competition.
The organizers will set up a big screen outside the main resort to give the public a chance to view live the goings on inside the resort.
Security and traffic plan are in place, the mayor said. A good number of policemen, traffic aides and barangay tanods (watchmen) will be detailed along the highway especially at the area fronting the resort to prevent vehicular accidents.
Perez said the visit of the Miss Earth candidates here would be a big promotion not only for Lisland Rainforest Resort but also for the city as a whole. (Visited in the past years by Miss Earth candidates were the cities of Alaminos and Dagupan.)
Meanwhile, representatives of Carousel Productions visited the resort twice and assessed both its facilities and environs before giving allowing it to become one of the venues of the swimsuit competition.
The resort (others say it is a forest in the city) has 785 fully grown trees to date.
The candidates will spend the night here before they proceed to their next activity venue.
According to Perez, five candidates will be chosen here as finalists to the Miss Earth crown.
The Miss Earth 2007 pageant will be held on November 11 at the University of the Philippines Theater. (LCMY/Sunnex)
Source: Sun Star
Friday, October 19, 2007
Miss Earth-St Lucia off to international pageant
As the people of the Philippines set the stage for the arrival of the 2007 Miss Earth contestants, Miss Earth-Saint Lucia 2007 Oneka McKoy took her first international flight to the enchanting city of Manila, Philippines today (Thursday). Oneka is expected to be in Manila from the October 21 to the November14.Since winning the Miss Earth-Saint Lucia title in early August this year Oneka McKoy has been undergoing rigorous training by pageant director Hanna Fitz. Oneka has been training to achieve internationally competitive walking techniques, and enhancing her question and answer capabilities. During her participation at the Miss Earth pageant Oneka will be expected to compete in the talent competition, where she will play a steel pan medley of “Island in the Sun” and “Woman of the Earth”—the theme song for the Miss Earth pageant. Oneka playing the woman of the earth song is sure to blow the judges away since she will not be expected to know the song.
Oneka’s costume was designed by Hanna and is named “Distinctly Saint Lucia”. The costume depicts our Pitons, flag and wings to symbolize the Amazona versicolour. Hanna says that she wanted a costume that was flexible to travel with and was also streamlined on Oneka because of her height (5”8) and petite frame. Oneka is very excited and grateful for the opportunity not only to visit the magnificent Philippines, but to have an opportunity to be an environmental ambassador for her country. While in the Phillipines, Oneka will be visiting schools to give speeches, visiting communities and making radio and television appearances.
According to Oneka, “My mother has told me that if I do not win this pageant I should stay in Manila”. The organizers of MESPRO International are very confident that not only will Oneka be a good representative for Saint Lucia but that she will exceed the performance of her predecessors. The organizers at MESPRO international say that “it only gets better with time and experience”. Stay tuned for more updates on Miss Earth-Saint Lucia’s performance in the Phillipines. To track Oneka’s performance in Manila visit www.missosologist.com or www.globalbeauties.com.
Caption: Oneka McKoy is currently in Manila for the international leg of the Miss Earth pageant
Source: St Lucia Star
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Down-to-earth Aine hopes to win green title
By Victoria O'Hara
Ulster beauty Aine Gormley will jet off to the Philippines this weekend to try and turn rival competitors green with envy and win the Miss Earth 2007 title.
The PhD student at the University of Ulster in Coleraine recently won the Northern Ireland Miss Earth title.
The 25-year-old, who has a degree in Environmental Science, will now compete against contestants from around the world to try and win the pageant - which has the theme, 'beauties for a cause'.
"I am flying out to the Philippines from London alongside Miss Earth England, Scotland and Wales," she said.
The student from Enniskillen says this was the first beauty pageant she has entered after spotting the competition in an email.
Aine, who is a member of the Environmental Science Association of Ireland (ESAI), the Irish Quaternary association (IQUA), and the Institution of Environmental Sciences, says she would love to win the overall title.
And the academic, who arrives on October 20 for three weeks, says she is excited but nervous about the competition.
"The nerves are really building up now but it is very exciting at the same time, I still can't believe it's all actually happening!"
"So far there are 82 delegates signed up from all over the globe so it should be amazing meeting that many people.
"My mother, boyfriend and two friends will be joining me for the final 10 days, which is fantastic and I'll be really glad of the support at that stage.
"The actual pageant is on the night of November 11 and will be televised nationwide via ABS CBN with international telecasts via STAR TV and the Filipino Channel."
She added: " Parts of the contest, such as environmental platform, national costume, will also be held and filmed during our three-week stay."
Northern Ireland company Belleek Pottery has sponsored Aine and has provided her with a gift for the charity auction. Each competitor is required to bring one representing their country.
"Meave Cleary from Belleek presented me with a limited edition Shamrock 3-Handled Cup from its Archive Collection to celebrate 150 years in business.
"It is absolutely gorgeous and I am so grateful for their generosity," she said.
"I think if I won, it would be fantastic and it offers the chance to try and highlight key environmental concerns as well as represent your country on a global scale."
Source: Belfast Telegraph
Ulster beauty Aine Gormley will jet off to the Philippines this weekend to try and turn rival competitors green with envy and win the Miss Earth 2007 title.
The PhD student at the University of Ulster in Coleraine recently won the Northern Ireland Miss Earth title.
The 25-year-old, who has a degree in Environmental Science, will now compete against contestants from around the world to try and win the pageant - which has the theme, 'beauties for a cause'.
"I am flying out to the Philippines from London alongside Miss Earth England, Scotland and Wales," she said.
The student from Enniskillen says this was the first beauty pageant she has entered after spotting the competition in an email.
Aine, who is a member of the Environmental Science Association of Ireland (ESAI), the Irish Quaternary association (IQUA), and the Institution of Environmental Sciences, says she would love to win the overall title.
And the academic, who arrives on October 20 for three weeks, says she is excited but nervous about the competition.
"The nerves are really building up now but it is very exciting at the same time, I still can't believe it's all actually happening!"
"So far there are 82 delegates signed up from all over the globe so it should be amazing meeting that many people.
"My mother, boyfriend and two friends will be joining me for the final 10 days, which is fantastic and I'll be really glad of the support at that stage.
"The actual pageant is on the night of November 11 and will be televised nationwide via ABS CBN with international telecasts via STAR TV and the Filipino Channel."
She added: " Parts of the contest, such as environmental platform, national costume, will also be held and filmed during our three-week stay."
Northern Ireland company Belleek Pottery has sponsored Aine and has provided her with a gift for the charity auction. Each competitor is required to bring one representing their country.
"Meave Cleary from Belleek presented me with a limited edition Shamrock 3-Handled Cup from its Archive Collection to celebrate 150 years in business.
"It is absolutely gorgeous and I am so grateful for their generosity," she said.
"I think if I won, it would be fantastic and it offers the chance to try and highlight key environmental concerns as well as represent your country on a global scale."
Source: Belfast Telegraph
Model Truc Diem to represent Vietnam at Miss Earth ’07
20-year-old model and student Truong Tri Truc DiemModel Truong Tri Truc Diem has been chosen to represent Vietnam at the 7th annual Miss Earth 2007, which will be held in the Philippines from October 21 to November 11.
20-year-old Truc Diem, the runner-up of Vietnam Miss Photo 2005 and winner of the Best Advertisement Model 2006, is currently a senior at Cetana PSB Intellis as a marketing student.
According to Truc Diem, thanks to her excellent verbal ability in English, her 1.72 meter height and her outstanding posture, she will represent Vietnam well.
She is confident and eager to introduce Vietnamese culture and beauty to a world stage at the contest.
She will wear an evening gown designed by designer Truong Thanh Hai and a traditional Vietnamese ao dai designed by ABC Fashion Co.
Reported by Huy Tuong
Source: Thanhnien News
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Miss Indonesia ranks 15th in 2007 Int`l Beauty Contest
Miss Indonesia ranks 15th in 2007 Int`l Beauty Contest
Tokyo (ANTARA News) - Miss Indonesia Rahma M Landi taking part in the 2007 Miss International Beauty Pageant in Tokyo ranked only the 15th among the other participants from 66 countries.
Chairman of the Indonesian Ladies Foundation Wardiman Djojonegoro made the remark in a meeting with Indonesian ambassador to Japan Jusuf Anwar at his residence here on Tuesday.
Indonesia`s participation in international event was to show that Indonesia promotes its natural culture to the world, said Wardiman, a former education minister.
At the meeting, Wardiman was accompanied by Rahma M Landy and Kusumadewi Sutanto, a member of the jury.
Wardiman further said that Indonesia participated in the beauty contest to promote the dignity of Indonesian women in international contests, and that the essence of beauty in Indonesia concerns smartness in giving added value to the participant in the contest.
He also said that pros and cons on the need of Indonesian women to participate in the international beauty contest had become out of date. Meanwhile Rahma M Landy on the occasion explained her preparations of the whole process for the international contest.
Wardiman said he was not disappointed by what Miss Indonesia has achieved, because every effort has been made.
"I am happily and feel proud, as after being absent in the international event for 30 years, Indonesia has sent me to the even," Rahma M Landy said.
Rahma also said she was very happy as Indonesia won the "best speech" among the other contestants. (*)
Source: Antara News
Tokyo (ANTARA News) - Miss Indonesia Rahma M Landi taking part in the 2007 Miss International Beauty Pageant in Tokyo ranked only the 15th among the other participants from 66 countries.
Chairman of the Indonesian Ladies Foundation Wardiman Djojonegoro made the remark in a meeting with Indonesian ambassador to Japan Jusuf Anwar at his residence here on Tuesday.
Indonesia`s participation in international event was to show that Indonesia promotes its natural culture to the world, said Wardiman, a former education minister.
At the meeting, Wardiman was accompanied by Rahma M Landy and Kusumadewi Sutanto, a member of the jury.
Wardiman further said that Indonesia participated in the beauty contest to promote the dignity of Indonesian women in international contests, and that the essence of beauty in Indonesia concerns smartness in giving added value to the participant in the contest.
He also said that pros and cons on the need of Indonesian women to participate in the international beauty contest had become out of date. Meanwhile Rahma M Landy on the occasion explained her preparations of the whole process for the international contest.
Wardiman said he was not disappointed by what Miss Indonesia has achieved, because every effort has been made.
"I am happily and feel proud, as after being absent in the international event for 30 years, Indonesia has sent me to the even," Rahma M Landy said.
Rahma also said she was very happy as Indonesia won the "best speech" among the other contestants. (*)
Source: Antara News
Miss Universe says 'no' to wearing fur
TOKYO (AFP) — Miss Universe, Riyo Mori of Japan, vowed Tuesday not to wear fur and declared herself an animal lover after a protest campaign by animal rights activists.
"I will say this out loud: I will not wear fur," Mori told AFP. "I love animals and I agree with those who oppose wearing fur products."
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) launched a campaign last week to press Mori to renounce fur, angered that she went on the catwalk with a full-length fur coat.
Mori and other contestants wore the fur coats during the final round of the preliminary pageant in Japan to select the national candidate, the Miss Universe Organization said.
"At that time I wasn't expecting to face this issue so soon as Miss Universe," Mori said.
But Mori said she felt the need to speak out about after being crowned Miss Universe in Mexico City earlier this year.
"I am invited to Fendi's show in China next week and I was encouraged to pick a coat because it will be very cold when I travel there," she said, referring to the Italian fashion house.
"The entire Fendi collection of winter coats which was offered to me to pick from was fur, but I said I would not wear one made with fur," she said.
"I will wear a white jumper that will be lent by Fendi."
PETA is famous for its publicity stunts and for targeting celebrities who wear fur and companies that sell it.
The US-based rights group wrote Mori a letter asking her to "prove that your beauty is more than skin deep" and encouraged its members to send her emails.
Ines Ligron, Miss Universe Japan national director who helped train Japanese contestants, said she encouraged Mori and other candidates to wear the fur coats in the preliminary contest.
Supporting Mori's decision to decline a Fendi fur coat, Ligron said: "She refused even though she was kind of pressured to wear fur."
Mori, 20, has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.
She added she also wants to draw the attention of pet lovers in Japan, some of whom go to extremes to put name-brand outfits on their dogs and cats.
"I wonder how many children in Africa would starve to death while some people here spend a lot of money on their pets," she said. "We have to think about more than just what's right in front of us."
Source: AFP
"I will say this out loud: I will not wear fur," Mori told AFP. "I love animals and I agree with those who oppose wearing fur products."
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) launched a campaign last week to press Mori to renounce fur, angered that she went on the catwalk with a full-length fur coat.
Mori and other contestants wore the fur coats during the final round of the preliminary pageant in Japan to select the national candidate, the Miss Universe Organization said.
"At that time I wasn't expecting to face this issue so soon as Miss Universe," Mori said.
But Mori said she felt the need to speak out about after being crowned Miss Universe in Mexico City earlier this year.
"I am invited to Fendi's show in China next week and I was encouraged to pick a coat because it will be very cold when I travel there," she said, referring to the Italian fashion house.
"The entire Fendi collection of winter coats which was offered to me to pick from was fur, but I said I would not wear one made with fur," she said.
"I will wear a white jumper that will be lent by Fendi."
PETA is famous for its publicity stunts and for targeting celebrities who wear fur and companies that sell it.
The US-based rights group wrote Mori a letter asking her to "prove that your beauty is more than skin deep" and encouraged its members to send her emails.
Ines Ligron, Miss Universe Japan national director who helped train Japanese contestants, said she encouraged Mori and other candidates to wear the fur coats in the preliminary contest.
Supporting Mori's decision to decline a Fendi fur coat, Ligron said: "She refused even though she was kind of pressured to wear fur."
Mori, 20, has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.
She added she also wants to draw the attention of pet lovers in Japan, some of whom go to extremes to put name-brand outfits on their dogs and cats.
"I wonder how many children in Africa would starve to death while some people here spend a lot of money on their pets," she said. "We have to think about more than just what's right in front of us."
Source: AFP
Monday, October 15, 2007
Vietnamese candidate wins Miss International Image title
The online poll for contestants in the Miss International 2007 pageant contest closed on October 14. Vietnam’s Pham Thi Thuy Duong was the winner, with 65% of the votes.
Commencing on October 9, the online poll received more than 10,700 votes, including over 7,000 or 65% cast for Thuy Duong, 5% for the representatives of the US and Mexico, and 4% for contestants from Venezuela and Hong Kong.
However, Thuy Duong is not among the 12 girls who are forecast to be able to win the Miss International 2007 crown. According to Geocities, Japan’s website on the Miss International 2007 pageant contest, representatives of Belarus, Brazil, Dominican Republic, France, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, Turkey and Venezuela are the top candidates for the Miss International 2007 title. Japan won Miss Photo title on October 3.
Sixty-one beauties on Sunday participated in the rehearsal to prepare for the final night, which will take place at the Prince Park Tower in Tokyo this evening, October 15.
Source: Vietnam News Bridge
Commencing on October 9, the online poll received more than 10,700 votes, including over 7,000 or 65% cast for Thuy Duong, 5% for the representatives of the US and Mexico, and 4% for contestants from Venezuela and Hong Kong.
However, Thuy Duong is not among the 12 girls who are forecast to be able to win the Miss International 2007 crown. According to Geocities, Japan’s website on the Miss International 2007 pageant contest, representatives of Belarus, Brazil, Dominican Republic, France, India, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Spain, Turkey and Venezuela are the top candidates for the Miss International 2007 title. Japan won Miss Photo title on October 3.
Sixty-one beauties on Sunday participated in the rehearsal to prepare for the final night, which will take place at the Prince Park Tower in Tokyo this evening, October 15.
Source: Vietnam News Bridge
Friday, October 12, 2007
Miss Tibet beauty pageant begins
Dharamsala (PTI): The Miss Tibet beauty pageant began here on Friday with the swimsuit round at the headquarters of the Tibetan government-in-exile.
Five Tibetan girls are participating in the three-day competition.
The participants have been given special classes in Yoga and a discourse on Tibetan history and culture.
Special arrangements have been made to handle the spectators at the Tibetan Cultural Centre at Macleodganj on the final day of the competition on October 14, said Lobsang Wangyal, the organiser of the event.
Judges for the show are Phil Voit (US), Ajay Singh (India), Andy Harrison (US) and Tara Phien (Singapore).
The beauty contest was organised for the first time in 2001.
Source: Hindustan Times
Five Tibetan girls are participating in the three-day competition.
The participants have been given special classes in Yoga and a discourse on Tibetan history and culture.
Special arrangements have been made to handle the spectators at the Tibetan Cultural Centre at Macleodganj on the final day of the competition on October 14, said Lobsang Wangyal, the organiser of the event.
Judges for the show are Phil Voit (US), Ajay Singh (India), Andy Harrison (US) and Tara Phien (Singapore).
The beauty contest was organised for the first time in 2001.
Source: Hindustan Times
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Vietnam can’t lose with Miss Universe 2008
Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong and Paula Mary Shugart, Chairwoman of the Organising Board of the Miss Universe pageant contestVietNamNet Bridge – The government has approved Vietnam as the host of the Miss Universe pageant 2008. With $15 million in funding needed, where will the money come from? Dr. Doan Thi Kim Hong, Chairman of the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, which is one of three organising partners of the Universe JS Company, outlines some details.
The government has approved organisation but has it agreed to financially support the event?
According to our plan, which was approved by the government, the funding will be raised by the member companies. However, we can only organise this event with the approval of the Government and under the guidance of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and other relevant agencies.
Miss Universe 2005 in Thailand was half financed ($7 million) by the Thais Government and the rest by organisers but it still incurred a loss of over $1 million despite available infrastructure. Have you and your partners considered the financial burden of this contest, as we have to build all new facilities?
Our funding was raised by the three member companies of the Universe JS Company, the CIAT Advertising and Trade Fair JS Company, VIET CEO, and Hoan Cau Nha Trang. We have arranged the $7 million necessary for the contract between us and the Miss Universe organising board.
After signing, we will set up our own board that will raise funds through sponsorships and investments from both local and foreign companies.
It is estimated that the pageant will draw over 500 businessmen wanting learn about Vietnam’s business and trade environment. Despite possible difficulties and losses, this event will focus international attention on our country and should heighten Vietnam’s global status. That alone meets our definition of success.
As both businessman in and citizens of Vietnam, we are proud of doing our part to market Vietnam’s image to the world.
Do you think that local and foreign companies will invest in this event?
The Universe Company is prestigious and its members have substantial experience in acquiring valuable sponsorship. CIAT has 20 years of experience organising events. We have held many international festivals in Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, Vung Tau and Dak Lak so we have diverse and strong relationships with local and foreign companies.
I hope that businesses will see it this as a wonderful opportunity to advertise their brands, not only at home but also to the rest of the world.
What worries you the most about your upcoming October negotiation?
How to meet the deadlines, but with the support of the Government, I feel assured. Moreover, the Miss Universe board expects Vietnam to host the pageant; all that is left are the details.
Sources: Gia Dinh & Xa Hoi) and Vietnam Net Bridge
New Law Sets Rules For Beauty Pageants, Others
Under a new law, Gaming Act 2006, anyone wishing to organise a game of chance including beauty contests, sales promotion, television reality shows and SMS quiz games will need to acquire authorisation from the Gaming Commission first.
Recurring contestants’ complaints about non-delivery of promised prizes, viewers’ doubts over transparency in the scoring of television reality shows and public concerns over the methods used to determine games of chance using mobile phone SMS could be things of the past.
A not-so-new law, Gaming Act 2006, which revised and consolidates the laws relating to gaming activities is beginning to flex its muscle with the coming into being of the Gaming Commission under the Ministry of Interior whose business is to regulate, control, monitor and supervise the operation of games of chance in this country.
Under the law anyone wishing to organise a game of chance including beauty contests, sales promotion, television reality shows and SMS quiz games will need to acquire authorisation from the Gaming Commission first.
For the past few years, considerable furore has been raised in public over unpaid prizes for beauty pageant winners. In one case, a reigning Miss Ghana had to go to court to claim her prize and in another, the organisers resorted to paying the prize in instalments.
In yet another pageant, the contestants were told after the show that they should consider their participation as charity.
“That will not happen again, the Gaming Commissioner Mr Alex Baafour Gyimah told Showbiz, “My office demands that any organiser of such a pageant has to come to talk with us.”
Mr Gyimah said that game of chance organisers are expected to meet three simple requirements. First they are to visit the offices of the Gaming Commission located in Fortune House on the premises of the Department of National Lotteries in Accra to present their proposal to the commission. “At this stage, we will discuss the proposal and determine whether the game can be run.
The second requirement is for the organisers to apply in writing stating the nature of the game, the prizes to be given and the manner in which winners will be determined. Organisers are expected to pay GH¢50 as application fee.
Finally, the organisers are expected to convince the commission that they are adequately resourced to carry out the game of chance and be ready to pay five percent of the net value of prizes to the commission after the event.
“Our job is to protect the public,” Mr Gyimah said. “Our intention is neither to discourage people from going into promotions nor to criminalise promotions” but he was quick to add that the commission has the authority to invoke sanctions for non-compliance as set out in the Gaming Act.
Mr Gyimah expressed satisfaction with the co-operation that his office has so far engaged with almost all of the television stations which carry reality shows on their networks. He said that since the commission sent letters round a few months ago, all prospective organisers of reality shows on television have been to the commission to discuss their shows and to seek authority.
Only a few months old, the commission is yet to take off strongly but even at this stage, Mr Gyimah appears quite satisfied with what has been achieved with regard to their monitoring and supervisory roles.
“We have been quite busy poring over newspaper adverts, listening to radio and watching television for news of any game of chance activities and it is in the interest of organisers and promoters to talk to us first to avoid having their programmes brought to an abrupt end”, Mr Gyimah said.
“We expect honest dealings on the part of game organisers and not to take the public for granted.
Story by Nana Banyin Dadson
Source: Modern Ghana
Recurring contestants’ complaints about non-delivery of promised prizes, viewers’ doubts over transparency in the scoring of television reality shows and public concerns over the methods used to determine games of chance using mobile phone SMS could be things of the past.
A not-so-new law, Gaming Act 2006, which revised and consolidates the laws relating to gaming activities is beginning to flex its muscle with the coming into being of the Gaming Commission under the Ministry of Interior whose business is to regulate, control, monitor and supervise the operation of games of chance in this country.
Under the law anyone wishing to organise a game of chance including beauty contests, sales promotion, television reality shows and SMS quiz games will need to acquire authorisation from the Gaming Commission first.
For the past few years, considerable furore has been raised in public over unpaid prizes for beauty pageant winners. In one case, a reigning Miss Ghana had to go to court to claim her prize and in another, the organisers resorted to paying the prize in instalments.
In yet another pageant, the contestants were told after the show that they should consider their participation as charity.
“That will not happen again, the Gaming Commissioner Mr Alex Baafour Gyimah told Showbiz, “My office demands that any organiser of such a pageant has to come to talk with us.”
Mr Gyimah said that game of chance organisers are expected to meet three simple requirements. First they are to visit the offices of the Gaming Commission located in Fortune House on the premises of the Department of National Lotteries in Accra to present their proposal to the commission. “At this stage, we will discuss the proposal and determine whether the game can be run.
The second requirement is for the organisers to apply in writing stating the nature of the game, the prizes to be given and the manner in which winners will be determined. Organisers are expected to pay GH¢50 as application fee.
Finally, the organisers are expected to convince the commission that they are adequately resourced to carry out the game of chance and be ready to pay five percent of the net value of prizes to the commission after the event.
“Our job is to protect the public,” Mr Gyimah said. “Our intention is neither to discourage people from going into promotions nor to criminalise promotions” but he was quick to add that the commission has the authority to invoke sanctions for non-compliance as set out in the Gaming Act.
Mr Gyimah expressed satisfaction with the co-operation that his office has so far engaged with almost all of the television stations which carry reality shows on their networks. He said that since the commission sent letters round a few months ago, all prospective organisers of reality shows on television have been to the commission to discuss their shows and to seek authority.
Only a few months old, the commission is yet to take off strongly but even at this stage, Mr Gyimah appears quite satisfied with what has been achieved with regard to their monitoring and supervisory roles.
“We have been quite busy poring over newspaper adverts, listening to radio and watching television for news of any game of chance activities and it is in the interest of organisers and promoters to talk to us first to avoid having their programmes brought to an abrupt end”, Mr Gyimah said.
“We expect honest dealings on the part of game organisers and not to take the public for granted.
Story by Nana Banyin Dadson
Source: Modern Ghana
Colombia's beauty obsession reaches even to prison
Inmates take the spotlight at prison pageant
Angie Sanchez, the eventual winner, walks the stage during the prison beauty pageant in Bogota, Colombia. Scott Dalton: For the Chronicle
By JOHN OTIS
BOGOTA, Colombia — You could call her "Miss Death Squad."
Jailed for supplying weapons to illegal right-wing paramilitary assassins, Angie Sanchez is now, in a manner of speaking, a queen of the convicts. The slim 21-year-old took top honors in an annual beauty pageant at the Good Shepherd women's prison here.
A penitentiary may seem an odd place to display glitz and glamour, but the prison's warden puts on the beauty contest each year in an effort to boost the prisoners' morale and break the monotony of life behind bars.
"This is a time when they don't have to think about being in jail and can focus on being beautiful women," said warden Jenny Morantes. The prison holds 1,166 women as well as a handful of toddlers, who are allowed to live with their mothers until age 3.
Besides, comparing beauty is a national obsession in Colombia. The country comes to a near-standstill in November during the weeklong Miss Colombia pageant, while scores of smaller contests crown Miss Coffee and Miss Petroleum, to name just two.
Breaking stereotypes
Most budding beauty queens in Colombia are well-to-do teenagers with a coterie of advisers who prep for months by exercising, dieting, practicing on runways and contemplating cosmetic surgery.
The prisoners, by contrast, are often women from poor or working-class families. Many are in their 20s or 30s. Most are married or divorced. Some have children. Nearly all are tough women doing hard time in the massive, concrete guardhouse.
They eat greasy prison food and get little exercise, making it difficult to obtain or maintain stereotypical beauty queen figures. Some sport tattoos on their arms, legs and torsos.
But as the prison beauty contest nears, they get professional help from hairstylists and manicurists, who volunteer their services.
"These are people, just like everyone else," hairdresser Alfonso Llano said as he twisted braids and used a blow-dryer on one of the contestants. "Maybe they made mistakes, but they are here to pay for their crimes and to move on."
Besides Sanchez, contenders in the recent contest included a mother of three sentenced to 14 months for stealing CDs, a woman convicted of forging documents, and a Spanish tourist imprisoned for trying to smuggle 9 pounds of cocaine to her homeland.
"I needed the money," said Isabel Cavallos, a housewife from Valencia, Spain, who packed the white powder in her suitcase. "But they caught me at the airport."
Sought money, excitement
Sanchez, one of six children born into a family of poor farmers, dreamed of studying languages or working as a forensic anthropologist. But lacking the money for college, she ended up waiting tables at bars and restaurants for $70 a week.
One night, Sanchez met a group of paramilitary militiamen who had fought Marxist guerrillas but later became heavily involved in death squads, extortion rackets and drug trafficking. Sanchez, who was obsessed with Tom Cruise and his Mission: Impossible films, was drawn to their seemingly exciting lifestyle.
Soon, she was working for the gunmen. For double her waitress pay, she became a courier, dropping off weapons to paramilitaries.
The gig ended when a fight broke out at a paramilitary party. Police arrived and found a pistol and a grenade. Sanchez and her colleagues were arrested, and she was sent to Good Shepherd prison on charges ranging from weapons possession to membership in an illegal armed group.
"I never killed anyone," Sanchez said. "And I never thought I'd end up here."
And now, the final question
Despite her derring-do with the paramilitaries, Sanchez said she was nearly too nervous to take part in the beauty pageant. But she was nominated by her colleagues in Cell Block 2, so on the day of the contest she took a tranquilizer.
Wearing a purple evening gown and strutting before hundreds of screaming inmates, Sanchez appeared to win over the audience with her charisma and her answer to a question posed by one of the judges: What does the word "liberty" mean to you?
Speaking into a microphone, Sanchez replied: "It means that we can have new opportunities in life because we all make mistakes."
When the judges announced the winner, Sanchez received a silver crown and a massive boombox. Then, her ecstatic friends from Cell Block 2 paraded Sanchez through the prison on their shoulders.
A few days later, Sanchez reflected on her victory. It hadn't exactly changed her life — she's still behind bars awaiting trial — but she speculated that her crown could come in handy when she returns to court in November to appeal for her freedom.
"Maybe it will help with the judge," she said.
Source: Houston Chronicle
Angie Sanchez, the eventual winner, walks the stage during the prison beauty pageant in Bogota, Colombia. Scott Dalton: For the ChronicleBy JOHN OTIS
BOGOTA, Colombia — You could call her "Miss Death Squad."
Jailed for supplying weapons to illegal right-wing paramilitary assassins, Angie Sanchez is now, in a manner of speaking, a queen of the convicts. The slim 21-year-old took top honors in an annual beauty pageant at the Good Shepherd women's prison here.
A penitentiary may seem an odd place to display glitz and glamour, but the prison's warden puts on the beauty contest each year in an effort to boost the prisoners' morale and break the monotony of life behind bars.
"This is a time when they don't have to think about being in jail and can focus on being beautiful women," said warden Jenny Morantes. The prison holds 1,166 women as well as a handful of toddlers, who are allowed to live with their mothers until age 3.
Besides, comparing beauty is a national obsession in Colombia. The country comes to a near-standstill in November during the weeklong Miss Colombia pageant, while scores of smaller contests crown Miss Coffee and Miss Petroleum, to name just two.
Breaking stereotypes
Most budding beauty queens in Colombia are well-to-do teenagers with a coterie of advisers who prep for months by exercising, dieting, practicing on runways and contemplating cosmetic surgery.
The prisoners, by contrast, are often women from poor or working-class families. Many are in their 20s or 30s. Most are married or divorced. Some have children. Nearly all are tough women doing hard time in the massive, concrete guardhouse.
They eat greasy prison food and get little exercise, making it difficult to obtain or maintain stereotypical beauty queen figures. Some sport tattoos on their arms, legs and torsos.
But as the prison beauty contest nears, they get professional help from hairstylists and manicurists, who volunteer their services.
"These are people, just like everyone else," hairdresser Alfonso Llano said as he twisted braids and used a blow-dryer on one of the contestants. "Maybe they made mistakes, but they are here to pay for their crimes and to move on."
Besides Sanchez, contenders in the recent contest included a mother of three sentenced to 14 months for stealing CDs, a woman convicted of forging documents, and a Spanish tourist imprisoned for trying to smuggle 9 pounds of cocaine to her homeland.
"I needed the money," said Isabel Cavallos, a housewife from Valencia, Spain, who packed the white powder in her suitcase. "But they caught me at the airport."
Sought money, excitement
Sanchez, one of six children born into a family of poor farmers, dreamed of studying languages or working as a forensic anthropologist. But lacking the money for college, she ended up waiting tables at bars and restaurants for $70 a week.
One night, Sanchez met a group of paramilitary militiamen who had fought Marxist guerrillas but later became heavily involved in death squads, extortion rackets and drug trafficking. Sanchez, who was obsessed with Tom Cruise and his Mission: Impossible films, was drawn to their seemingly exciting lifestyle.
Soon, she was working for the gunmen. For double her waitress pay, she became a courier, dropping off weapons to paramilitaries.
The gig ended when a fight broke out at a paramilitary party. Police arrived and found a pistol and a grenade. Sanchez and her colleagues were arrested, and she was sent to Good Shepherd prison on charges ranging from weapons possession to membership in an illegal armed group.
"I never killed anyone," Sanchez said. "And I never thought I'd end up here."
And now, the final question
Despite her derring-do with the paramilitaries, Sanchez said she was nearly too nervous to take part in the beauty pageant. But she was nominated by her colleagues in Cell Block 2, so on the day of the contest she took a tranquilizer.
Wearing a purple evening gown and strutting before hundreds of screaming inmates, Sanchez appeared to win over the audience with her charisma and her answer to a question posed by one of the judges: What does the word "liberty" mean to you?
Speaking into a microphone, Sanchez replied: "It means that we can have new opportunities in life because we all make mistakes."
When the judges announced the winner, Sanchez received a silver crown and a massive boombox. Then, her ecstatic friends from Cell Block 2 paraded Sanchez through the prison on their shoulders.
A few days later, Sanchez reflected on her victory. It hadn't exactly changed her life — she's still behind bars awaiting trial — but she speculated that her crown could come in handy when she returns to court in November to appeal for her freedom.
"Maybe it will help with the judge," she said.
Source: Houston Chronicle
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Activists urge Miss Universe to shun fur
TOKYO (AFP) — Animal rights activists launched a campaign Thursday to pressure Miss Universe, Japan's Riyo Mori, to stop wearing fur, accusing her of promoting cruelty.
Mori, 20, a ballerina by training, wore a full-length fur coat at the pageant in Mexico City where she was crowned this year, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said.
It is encouraging its supporters to e-mail Mori after her office refused to respond to inquiries, the US-based rights group said.
"As Miss Universe, you are expected to be a positive role model who sets a good example," PETA said in a letter to Mori. "Prove that your beauty is more than skin deep."
"By choosing to wear fur, not only are you directly responsible for the deaths of dozens of animals, you're also sending a clear message to everyone who sees you that animals' lives are less important than fashion," it said.
PETA also offered Mori weblinks to gruesome footage from dog and cat fur farms in China.
The Miss Universe Japan office referred queries to Mori's office in New York, where she is based. No one immediately could be reached at the New York office.
Mori has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.
PETA is famous for its publicity stunts in campaigning for animal rights. It has frequently targeted celebrities and companies that promote fur, most visibly the British fashion giant Burberry.
Source: AFP
Mori, 20, a ballerina by training, wore a full-length fur coat at the pageant in Mexico City where she was crowned this year, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said.
It is encouraging its supporters to e-mail Mori after her office refused to respond to inquiries, the US-based rights group said.
"As Miss Universe, you are expected to be a positive role model who sets a good example," PETA said in a letter to Mori. "Prove that your beauty is more than skin deep."
"By choosing to wear fur, not only are you directly responsible for the deaths of dozens of animals, you're also sending a clear message to everyone who sees you that animals' lives are less important than fashion," it said.
PETA also offered Mori weblinks to gruesome footage from dog and cat fur farms in China.
The Miss Universe Japan office referred queries to Mori's office in New York, where she is based. No one immediately could be reached at the New York office.
Mori has said she wants to use her tenure as Miss Universe to fight HIV and AIDS and that she hopes one day to perform on Broadway.
PETA is famous for its publicity stunts in campaigning for animal rights. It has frequently targeted celebrities and companies that promote fur, most visibly the British fashion giant Burberry.
Source: AFP
Monday, October 8, 2007
Miss Earth: “I’ll return to this beautiful country”
VietNamNet Bridge – “I hope next time the Miss Earth pageant contest will be held in HCM City of Vietnam,” said Miss Earth 2006 Hil Hernandez Escobar.Before coming to Vietnam, what did you imagine about our country?
Miss Earth 2006 Hil Hernandez Escobar: I learnt some knowledge about Asia, typical areas of Asia, including Vietnam while I was at school. My knowledge about Vietnam is not much but before visiting your country, I learnt some information about your country through Miss Water Catherine and on the Internet. I know that Vietnam has many attractive tourist sites. I have had interesting days in HCM City. The friendliness of people here is wonderful.
Before coming here, I heard that a big bridge in your country collapsed, killing and injuring many people. That’s very sad. We have sought more information from our guide and we participated in a fund-raising activity at the tourism exhibition to help the victims.
How is your feeling about HCM City after two days?
Miss Earth-Water 2006 Catherine Untalan: HCM City has so many motorbikes, which surely impacts the environment. But I know that your city has solutions to deal with this current traffic situation, for example building new roads. I think it will contribute to changing your living environment for the better in the future.
Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: HCM City is a peaceful, safe and friendly city. Today we went shopping. Though it was short it was very interesting. On the way, the thing that surprised me was that your city has so many motorbikes, which is very different from our country, which only has cars.
I also know that your country is campaigning for the selection of Ha Long Bay as a world natural wonder.
Will you vote for our Ha Long Bay? During your trips to other countries will you campaign for the local people to vote for Ha Long Bay?
Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: Sure (in Vietnamese language), I’ll surely do it.
You said that you will return to Vietnam. When will you return and what will you do to help Vietnam in environmental protection in the role of ambassadors of goodwill for the environment?
Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: I’ll return to this beautiful country but I’ll come back alone, not with any organiser. I’ve asked myself why I have not done much campaigning about environmental protection. But now I am thinking of the task that I can do immediately: organising operations to advertise tourism of Vietnam and Chile. However, my ability is limited so I need the help of everybody here.
Miss Earth Singapore Nicole Chen: Next time in Vietnam I will launch a movement to protect the health of passers-by. Motorbike drivers in Vietnam need special gauze masks to prevent dust from going into their lungs.
Miss Earth-Water 2006 Catherine Untalan: I think we should diminish the use of plastic-made products because this material is difficult to recycle. For example, if you drink water in bottle like this, we should not use straws. Or when we go shopping, we should not use plastic bags.
What places in Vietnam will you go next time? Will you visit Ha Long Bay?
Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar: Next time if I have more time, I will spend the whole time visiting your country.
Miss Earth Singapore Nicole Chen: It takes just one hour to fly from Singapore to HCM City so if I can, I will come here every month.
A question for Miss Earth Hil Hernandez Escobar. Apart from beauty, what makes you feel self confident and what points of yourself are you not satisfied with?
I’ve gone to many countries and learnt about them but I think I still lack knowledge. Nobody is perfect.
On this occasion, I would like to talk about the Miss Earth pageant contest that I won last year. The last Miss Earth attracted contestants from 90 countries.
I hope next time, Miss Earth will be held in HCM City of Vietnam. That would be a way for us to express our interests in this beautiful country. The workload is huge with contestants coming from dozens of countries and their assistants. But if you try, you can do it.
Source: Vietnam News Bridge
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Five contestants vie for the Miss Tibet 2007
By Phurbu Thinley
Dharamsala, October 5: Of the many events in the month of October in Dharamsala, probably the most glamorous one demanding much attention could well be Miss Tibet Beauty pageant.
This year, five contestants are vying for the beauty title after testing them through seven competition rounds.
Despite much insisted hype by Lobsang Wangyal, the man behind the beauty pageant, to add more contending beauties to his show, the number remains at dwindling low. In fact, for this year, there is one less in number compared to last year’s.
Nevertheless, Lobsang is adamant and is hopeful to add more contestants in coming years, as he promises to continue with the beauty show.
“The enthusiasm with which more than ten women applied is a clear sign of hope to have even more contestants in the future” Lobsang said at the beauty pageant’s press conference.
Deeki Dolma, 20, from Gangtok, Sikkim; Tenzin Dolma, 21, from McLeod Ganj; Tenzin Pema, 19, from Clement Town, Dehradun; Tenzing Dolma, 25, from Gangtok, Sikkim and Tsering Yangzom, 20, from Kollegal, Karnataka are contesting for this year’s Tibetan beauty title.
“To represent and promote Tibet by taking part in Miss Tibet,” is the sole purpose of taking part in the contest for Deeki Dolma from Sikkim.
Tenzin Pema, a BA first-year student in Delhi University, on the other, says her participation is “to encourage other young Tibetans to come forward and be expressive of their own”.
Before the actual final competition rounds would begin from 12 to 14 October, the contestants will undergo a week-long training, which among others includes yoga, dance and catwalk, Lobsang said. A week-long training will be accompanied by orientation on Tibetan history, culture and current affairs, environmental issues, human rights and music and, visits to Tibetan Government-in-Exile, NGOs and institutions.
The contestants were yesterday shown "Miss Tibet in Exile", a documentary film on Miss Tibet pageant, directed by Tashi Wangchuk and Tsultrim Dorjee of Tibet Motion Pictures & Arts.
Miss Tibet 2006, Tsering Chungdak successfully participated in the Miss Earth contest last year and won "Miss Good-Will" title of the pageant.
“We hope to produce yet another memorable edition of the Miss Tibet pageant,” says Lobsang.
Source: Phayul
Dharamsala, October 5: Of the many events in the month of October in Dharamsala, probably the most glamorous one demanding much attention could well be Miss Tibet Beauty pageant.This year, five contestants are vying for the beauty title after testing them through seven competition rounds.
Despite much insisted hype by Lobsang Wangyal, the man behind the beauty pageant, to add more contending beauties to his show, the number remains at dwindling low. In fact, for this year, there is one less in number compared to last year’s.
Nevertheless, Lobsang is adamant and is hopeful to add more contestants in coming years, as he promises to continue with the beauty show.“The enthusiasm with which more than ten women applied is a clear sign of hope to have even more contestants in the future” Lobsang said at the beauty pageant’s press conference.
Deeki Dolma, 20, from Gangtok, Sikkim; Tenzin Dolma, 21, from McLeod Ganj; Tenzin Pema, 19, from Clement Town, Dehradun; Tenzing Dolma, 25, from Gangtok, Sikkim and Tsering Yangzom, 20, from Kollegal, Karnataka are contesting for this year’s Tibetan beauty title.
“To represent and promote Tibet by taking part in Miss Tibet,” is the sole purpose of taking part in the contest for Deeki Dolma from Sikkim.
Tenzin Pema, a BA first-year student in Delhi University, on the other, says her participation is “to encourage other young Tibetans to come forward and be expressive of their own”.
Before the actual final competition rounds would begin from 12 to 14 October, the contestants will undergo a week-long training, which among others includes yoga, dance and catwalk, Lobsang said. A week-long training will be accompanied by orientation on Tibetan history, culture and current affairs, environmental issues, human rights and music and, visits to Tibetan Government-in-Exile, NGOs and institutions.
The contestants were yesterday shown "Miss Tibet in Exile", a documentary film on Miss Tibet pageant, directed by Tashi Wangchuk and Tsultrim Dorjee of Tibet Motion Pictures & Arts.
Miss Tibet 2006, Tsering Chungdak successfully participated in the Miss Earth contest last year and won "Miss Good-Will" title of the pageant.
“We hope to produce yet another memorable edition of the Miss Tibet pageant,” says Lobsang.
Source: Phayul
Vietnamese woman stands tall at Asian beauty contest
Tall Vietnamese beauty Tran Thi Huong Giang is becoming a stand-out among the 30-plus contestants gathered in Hong Kong for the 2007 Miss Asia pageant, which wraps up Oct. 28.The 20-year-old, who is a media studies student at Ho Chi Minh City’s University of Social Sciences and Humanities and at 1.8 meter tall, is the second tallest competitor after Miss Uzbekistan.
From Hong Kong she spoke with Thanh Nien.
Thanh Nien: How have you got on with the other girls since coming here a week ago?
Huong Giang: I would say that the contestants are not only beautiful but also really friendly. Japan’s Mikako, 16, has a good sense of humor, while Canada’s 25-year-old Jessica amazes me since she can speak some Vietnamese. I like chatting and I am easy going enough to get along well with everyone here.
Thanh Nien: Jealousy among contestants is common in most beauty contests. Is it happening here too?
Huong Giang: So far, I am sure there hasn’t been any here. The organizers are professional and fair.
Thanh Nien: Does your height give you more confidence and increase your chances of winning?
Huong Giang: It might be an advantage. Besides, I feel confident because of my intellect and dynamism. My friends here are beautiful and there are only a few prizes. Therefore, winning will depend on several factors.
Reported by Da Ly - Translated by Luu Hong
Source: Thanhnien News
Friday, October 5, 2007
Kidnappers, perjury and beauty queens: The stormy saga of Miss Georgia 2007
By Ana Datiashvili
Georgia’s biggest summer news story didn’t involve reneging ex-ministers. It wasn’t about malfunctioning missiles, state privatizations or government shakeups.
The country’s most urgent contretemps revolved around an 18-year-old divorcee and an international beauty pageant.
Unless you spent the summer huddled in a Vardzia cave, you’ve heard bits and pieces of the story. This is all of it.
A questionable victory
On July 14 in sunny seaside Batumi, the Miss Georgia beauty pageant crowned 18-year-old Nino Likuchova its lucky 2007 winner. But when Likuchova placed that peacock-esque diadem upon her head, she contravened five decades of international Miss World bylaws.
Ms. Likuchova was married. Or was she? In Georgia, a simple question often isn’t.
The unwilling bride
The first spark in an inflammatory controversy came when intrepid Alia journalist Dito Tikaradze dug up wedding photos and records of a bitter court case. When the Alia journo called Likuchova to ask about the nuptial stills, he says, Likuchova denied ever being married. The newspaper went ahead and published the story August 2. The abrupt scrutiny forced Likuchova to confront a trauma she would rather have left in her past. The embattled Miss Georgia retracted her denial, and went public with her story: she was bride kidnapped.
“I didn’t have a happy face, and anyone could guess after seeing my pictures that I was not a real bride,” she calmly told the cameras on an Imedi TV talk show. “I agreed to the wedding, because [his family] was menacing me, and I saw that this was the only way to get rid of them.”
He said, she said, he won
Likuchova never explained the history between her and Merab Abashidze. Wedding photos show a blue-suited man, young but with graying hair, half-smiling as he props himself upright with crutches. His 16-year-old bride wears a white veil over an inscrutable face. No one is saying what happened between the wedding day and Likuchova’s day in court. Their church wedding was never legally registered, so the court case was not for a divorce—it was to press charges against Abashidze for abducting her. But after learning her alleged kidnapper faced more than two decades in the slammer, Likuchova recounts, she had a change of heart.
“I would be pitiless, if I let sit him in prison for 22 years,” she later said. “That’s why I decided to change my testimony—but this kindness went against me.”
In a bitter turnaround, Likuchova’s recantation led to her being convicted of perjury and placed on two years’ probation. Abashidze strenuously denies having resorted to kidnapping his inamorata.
“I never did anything to her by force. If I wanted to become her legitimate husband by force, I would have taken her to [the Tbilisi registrar’s office], but we were in church, having our marriage blessed,” Abashidze told tenacious journalists as the story unfolded.
The court believed him. According to Alia, he won the case by showing the court his wedding photographs—and by pointing out the difficulties he, a physically handicapped man, would have in forcing a teenage girl to marry him.
The controversy continues…and continues…
Miss World’s preliminary national competitions are carried out by license holders from Brazil to Angola to Romania. Ia Kintsmarishvili’s Image Center is the license holder of Miss Georgia for five years running.
“I protest against the violence,” Kintsmarishvili said. “Nino [Likuchova] was a victim, so instead of discussing her eligibility, we should think about how many girls are stuck in the same situation, and how they’ll get out if it.”
Despite her apparent concern for victimized young women, Kintsmarishvili kept media attention on the Miss Georgia competition. The pageant organizer convened a series of coquettish press conferences throughout the summer, each time promising to disclose the professional fate of the unfortunate M(r)s. Likuchova—and repeatedly pushing off any final announcements for yet another Image Center-sponsored press event.
By September, the time had come to put the scandal to rest.
The Image Center matriarch went on live TV to make her announcement: the council of esteemed beauty pageant jurists had reached its decision. Miss Georgia Nino Likuchova would keep her sparkling tiara, the council decreed, and the prizes—including a shiny new Peugeot—lavished upon her as the most beautiful woman in Georgia. But she would not be going to China to vie for the global title. Instead, second runner-up and lifelong bachelorette Tamuna Nemsitsveridze will carry Georgia’s hopes and dreams on her size 0 shoulders.
And the first runner-up, Nino Lekveishvili? She too was wed in younger days, the 20 year old admitted. Organizers stripped her of her title, elevating Nemsitsveridze to second place.
Miss World’s international headquarters told the Messenger they’re nothing but sympathetic bystanders in the dramatic tale of Miss Georgia 2007.
“Our reaction here is one of sadness for both the Miss Georgia Organisation and Nino Likuchova and anybody else that is involved in forcing anyone to do anything against their will,” said Julia Morley, a Miss World spokeswoman.
A teenage girl, trying to move on
At just 18, Likuchova is burdened with memories of a tragic wedding and a wrecked modelling career. And yet, coming clean on national television, she asked for forgiveness and understanding.
“I want to apologize to the public, and to the pageant jury…I never felt like I was married. I consulted with priests, and they told me that an obligatory ceremony does not make a real marriage. Getting married was the only way for me to get out of that hell. I was just trying to get back to my family.”
Now, Likuchova is back at university in Batumi, trying to put the entire episode behind her.
She would not put up a fight if they decided to take her title, she says: it’s caused her enough trouble already.
Source: The Messenger
Georgia’s biggest summer news story didn’t involve reneging ex-ministers. It wasn’t about malfunctioning missiles, state privatizations or government shakeups.
The country’s most urgent contretemps revolved around an 18-year-old divorcee and an international beauty pageant.
Unless you spent the summer huddled in a Vardzia cave, you’ve heard bits and pieces of the story. This is all of it.
A questionable victory
On July 14 in sunny seaside Batumi, the Miss Georgia beauty pageant crowned 18-year-old Nino Likuchova its lucky 2007 winner. But when Likuchova placed that peacock-esque diadem upon her head, she contravened five decades of international Miss World bylaws.
Ms. Likuchova was married. Or was she? In Georgia, a simple question often isn’t.
The unwilling bride
The first spark in an inflammatory controversy came when intrepid Alia journalist Dito Tikaradze dug up wedding photos and records of a bitter court case. When the Alia journo called Likuchova to ask about the nuptial stills, he says, Likuchova denied ever being married. The newspaper went ahead and published the story August 2. The abrupt scrutiny forced Likuchova to confront a trauma she would rather have left in her past. The embattled Miss Georgia retracted her denial, and went public with her story: she was bride kidnapped.
“I didn’t have a happy face, and anyone could guess after seeing my pictures that I was not a real bride,” she calmly told the cameras on an Imedi TV talk show. “I agreed to the wedding, because [his family] was menacing me, and I saw that this was the only way to get rid of them.”
He said, she said, he won
Likuchova never explained the history between her and Merab Abashidze. Wedding photos show a blue-suited man, young but with graying hair, half-smiling as he props himself upright with crutches. His 16-year-old bride wears a white veil over an inscrutable face. No one is saying what happened between the wedding day and Likuchova’s day in court. Their church wedding was never legally registered, so the court case was not for a divorce—it was to press charges against Abashidze for abducting her. But after learning her alleged kidnapper faced more than two decades in the slammer, Likuchova recounts, she had a change of heart.
“I would be pitiless, if I let sit him in prison for 22 years,” she later said. “That’s why I decided to change my testimony—but this kindness went against me.”
In a bitter turnaround, Likuchova’s recantation led to her being convicted of perjury and placed on two years’ probation. Abashidze strenuously denies having resorted to kidnapping his inamorata.
“I never did anything to her by force. If I wanted to become her legitimate husband by force, I would have taken her to [the Tbilisi registrar’s office], but we were in church, having our marriage blessed,” Abashidze told tenacious journalists as the story unfolded.
The court believed him. According to Alia, he won the case by showing the court his wedding photographs—and by pointing out the difficulties he, a physically handicapped man, would have in forcing a teenage girl to marry him.
The controversy continues…and continues…
Miss World’s preliminary national competitions are carried out by license holders from Brazil to Angola to Romania. Ia Kintsmarishvili’s Image Center is the license holder of Miss Georgia for five years running.
“I protest against the violence,” Kintsmarishvili said. “Nino [Likuchova] was a victim, so instead of discussing her eligibility, we should think about how many girls are stuck in the same situation, and how they’ll get out if it.”
Despite her apparent concern for victimized young women, Kintsmarishvili kept media attention on the Miss Georgia competition. The pageant organizer convened a series of coquettish press conferences throughout the summer, each time promising to disclose the professional fate of the unfortunate M(r)s. Likuchova—and repeatedly pushing off any final announcements for yet another Image Center-sponsored press event.
By September, the time had come to put the scandal to rest.
The Image Center matriarch went on live TV to make her announcement: the council of esteemed beauty pageant jurists had reached its decision. Miss Georgia Nino Likuchova would keep her sparkling tiara, the council decreed, and the prizes—including a shiny new Peugeot—lavished upon her as the most beautiful woman in Georgia. But she would not be going to China to vie for the global title. Instead, second runner-up and lifelong bachelorette Tamuna Nemsitsveridze will carry Georgia’s hopes and dreams on her size 0 shoulders.
And the first runner-up, Nino Lekveishvili? She too was wed in younger days, the 20 year old admitted. Organizers stripped her of her title, elevating Nemsitsveridze to second place.
Miss World’s international headquarters told the Messenger they’re nothing but sympathetic bystanders in the dramatic tale of Miss Georgia 2007.
“Our reaction here is one of sadness for both the Miss Georgia Organisation and Nino Likuchova and anybody else that is involved in forcing anyone to do anything against their will,” said Julia Morley, a Miss World spokeswoman.
A teenage girl, trying to move on
At just 18, Likuchova is burdened with memories of a tragic wedding and a wrecked modelling career. And yet, coming clean on national television, she asked for forgiveness and understanding.
“I want to apologize to the public, and to the pageant jury…I never felt like I was married. I consulted with priests, and they told me that an obligatory ceremony does not make a real marriage. Getting married was the only way for me to get out of that hell. I was just trying to get back to my family.”
Now, Likuchova is back at university in Batumi, trying to put the entire episode behind her.
She would not put up a fight if they decided to take her title, she says: it’s caused her enough trouble already.
Source: The Messenger
THE REIGNING MISS UNIVERSE ARRIVES IN ST.KITTS
Yes this is correct - St. Kitts!
Miss Universe & the Steel Orchestra. (Photo by Saju N’Galla)
Basseterre, St. Kitts, 5th October, 2007 – St. Kitts continues to welcome the world and the universe to its shores, as the, the reigning Miss Universe Miss Riyo Mori, arrived on the island yesterday.
Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend, extended an invitation to the recently crowned Miss Universe® to be a special guest of honour at the event, which takes place from October 5-7, 2007.
Miss Universe warmly accepted and plans were put in place by the St. Kitts Tourism Authority for her journey to the island and her experience there. She was greeted and welcomed by Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Hon. Richard Skerritt who introduced her to Calypso Rose, who arrived on island simultaneously. Calypso Rose is due to perform at the launch of National Carnival(Saturday 6th October). Both Miss Universe and Calypso Rose were presented with extravagant bouquets by Minister Skerritt.
Within hours of her arrival Miss Universe, attended a Welcome Reception in her honour sponsored by Marshalls Restaurant, Beaumont Park and Driftwood. In attendance were local dignitaries, designers, models and the management team of the 2nd annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend. Miss Universe was all smiles as she mingled with her fellow guests and gladly took pictures with those who asked. She made time to take a memorable photo with a young group who provided wonderful music on their steel pans during the night. 
Hon. Prime Minister Denzil Douglas & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori at a Welcome Reception held at Marhsalls, Frigate Bay.(Photo by Saju N’Galla)
Minister R. Skerritt & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori in the VIP Lounge at the R.L.B Airport (Photo by Garth Archibald)
Today Miss Universe will receive a full tour of the island and gain first-hand knowledge of St. Kitts’ scenic natural beauty, rich history and genuinely friendly people. This afternoon, she will speak to approximately 200 teenagers about her causes, which include raising HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women’s health and reproductive issues.
“We’re pleased to welcome the reigning Miss Universe to St. Kitts,” commented Richard “Ricky” Skerritt, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports & Culture for St. Kitts & Nevis. “As a symbol of success and strength for women across the world, she is certain to inspire and educate our youth. We hope that she will come to love our island during her stay with us and want to come back again.”
Riyo Mori expressed how happy she was to be on St. Kitts and in the Caribbean and was overwhelmed by the hospitality she received on her arrival and throughout. She finds the island breathtaking and has fallen in love with the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.
Arrival of Miss Universe
Miss Universe, Riyo Mori & Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend(Photo by Garth Archibald)
Riyo Mori was crowned Miss Universe on May 28, 2007 at the age of 20. Hailing from Shizuoka, Japan, she left home at the age of 16 to study abroad in Canada and reached New York at 19 years old. Through her travels and studies, Riyo has been able to master adapting to different environments, the importance of learning foreign languages and the need for intercultural understanding. She aspires to use her reign as Miss Universe to spread a message of empowerment and independence to women all across the globe.
The 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend is part of the island’s Tourism Awareness Month of activities. St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will include a concert, food fair, wine tasting, beach event, farewell reception and the star-studded runway fashion show at the St. Kitts Marriott Event Center featuring fine clothing by designers from St. Kitts, the Caribbean and the world. Additional details for the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will be confirmed in the coming months. Visit www.stkittsfashionweekend.com for the most current information.
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes such as water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.
Source: SKN Vibes
Miss Universe & the Steel Orchestra. (Photo by Saju N’Galla) Basseterre, St. Kitts, 5th October, 2007 – St. Kitts continues to welcome the world and the universe to its shores, as the, the reigning Miss Universe Miss Riyo Mori, arrived on the island yesterday.
Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend, extended an invitation to the recently crowned Miss Universe® to be a special guest of honour at the event, which takes place from October 5-7, 2007.
Miss Universe warmly accepted and plans were put in place by the St. Kitts Tourism Authority for her journey to the island and her experience there. She was greeted and welcomed by Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Hon. Richard Skerritt who introduced her to Calypso Rose, who arrived on island simultaneously. Calypso Rose is due to perform at the launch of National Carnival(Saturday 6th October). Both Miss Universe and Calypso Rose were presented with extravagant bouquets by Minister Skerritt.
Within hours of her arrival Miss Universe, attended a Welcome Reception in her honour sponsored by Marshalls Restaurant, Beaumont Park and Driftwood. In attendance were local dignitaries, designers, models and the management team of the 2nd annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend. Miss Universe was all smiles as she mingled with her fellow guests and gladly took pictures with those who asked. She made time to take a memorable photo with a young group who provided wonderful music on their steel pans during the night.
Hon. Prime Minister Denzil Douglas & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori at a Welcome Reception held at Marhsalls, Frigate Bay.(Photo by Saju N’Galla) Minister R. Skerritt & Miss Universe, Riyo Mori in the VIP Lounge at the R.L.B Airport (Photo by Garth Archibald)Today Miss Universe will receive a full tour of the island and gain first-hand knowledge of St. Kitts’ scenic natural beauty, rich history and genuinely friendly people. This afternoon, she will speak to approximately 200 teenagers about her causes, which include raising HIV/AIDS awareness by focusing on women’s health and reproductive issues.
“We’re pleased to welcome the reigning Miss Universe to St. Kitts,” commented Richard “Ricky” Skerritt, Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism, Sports & Culture for St. Kitts & Nevis. “As a symbol of success and strength for women across the world, she is certain to inspire and educate our youth. We hope that she will come to love our island during her stay with us and want to come back again.”
Riyo Mori expressed how happy she was to be on St. Kitts and in the Caribbean and was overwhelmed by the hospitality she received on her arrival and throughout. She finds the island breathtaking and has fallen in love with the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.
Arrival of Miss Universe Miss Universe, Riyo Mori & Mr. Eversley Liburd, CEO of the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend(Photo by Garth Archibald)Riyo Mori was crowned Miss Universe on May 28, 2007 at the age of 20. Hailing from Shizuoka, Japan, she left home at the age of 16 to study abroad in Canada and reached New York at 19 years old. Through her travels and studies, Riyo has been able to master adapting to different environments, the importance of learning foreign languages and the need for intercultural understanding. She aspires to use her reign as Miss Universe to spread a message of empowerment and independence to women all across the globe.
The 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend is part of the island’s Tourism Awareness Month of activities. St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will include a concert, food fair, wine tasting, beach event, farewell reception and the star-studded runway fashion show at the St. Kitts Marriott Event Center featuring fine clothing by designers from St. Kitts, the Caribbean and the world. Additional details for the 2nd Annual St. Kitts Fashion Weekend will be confirmed in the coming months. Visit www.stkittsfashionweekend.com for the most current information.
Located in the northern Leeward Islands of the Caribbean, St. Kitts offers a diverse tourism product developed from the destination’s natural beauty, cultural heritage and rich history. The island’s stunning variety of tourism attractions include hiking through the tropical rainforest, riding the scenic railway that connects the island’s sugar plantations, touring Brimstone Hill Fortress, the only man-made UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Eastern Caribbean, and the more traditional vacation pastimes such as water sports, golf, shopping, tennis, gourmet dining, gaming at St. Kitts’ exclusive casino or simply relaxing on one of the island’s sandy beaches. Guests can select from accommodations ranging from intimate plantation inns to larger hotels or resorts.
Source: SKN Vibes
Smith shares Miss USA journey on trip home
Smith to be featured in MTV reality series
By JAMIE DEXTER
The Leaf-Chronicle
Just one year ago, Rachel Smith was just like any other college student.
"I was a college student at Belmont University getting my journalism degree and trying to figure out what my thesis was going to be on and get that out of the way so I could graduate in December," Smith said while standing in front of the Montgomery County Court Complex.
Since then, Smith was crowned Miss Tennessee USA at last year's pageant, then later crowned Miss USA — the second from Clarksville to achieve that honor — and finished fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant.
Saturday, Smith will be handing off the crown to the new Miss Tennessee USA winner.
Things have changed drastically for her since then — she went from "cruising through Clarksville in my Beetle" to arriving for a public appearance in a white stretch limo, escorted by several units from the Clarksville Police Department.
"It's a complete 180," Smith said, showcasing her signature smile that would put even the most nervous greeters at ease.
Since being crowned Miss USA, Smith said she's been up to a whole lot more than could be shared in a few minutes' time — from putting her journalism talents at work interviewing celebrities at a philanthropic summit in Spain to introducing Wyclef John during a concert at Radio City Music Hall.
"I've been in this gig now for 6 months maybe, and so far I've traveled to Kenya for a volunteer project through a non-profit organization in New York called Project Sunshine," Smith said. "I've emceed an event at the White House for Black Music Month ... at a philanthropic event in Spain I got to walk the red carpet at the gala and turn around and interview A-list celebrities there including Eva Longoria, Goldie Hawn, Paris Hilton — It was insane."
She's also featured in a MTV reality television show, "Pageant Place," where cameras capture her life along with the lives of Miss Universe Riyo Mori and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair.
Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner and Miss Teen USA Hilary Cruz are also featured on the show — airing Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.
"It's been interesting," Smith said. "I've been able to do some incredible things during the time of the reality show — some things I wouldn't have had the opportunity to do otherwise."
Smith said the girls don't have a say in the editing process, so she said it will be interesting watching along with the audiences at home.
"They follow us on appearances and catch the drama, or lack thereof, that goes on behind the scenes on the way to events," Smith said.
Despite being a very busy woman, Smith said there are a lot of things she misses about her hometown.
"My family, of course," Smith said. "I miss going down to the Riverwalk with my dog, Zoe ... and just seeing everyone. You couldn't go to Wal-Mart without seeing someone you knew, ya know?"
Smith said that even rang true when she returned to see her family for her homecoming, and she went grocery shopping with her mom.
"I was in my pajamas, just casual grunge clothes, and people were like, 'Oh, there's Rachel Smith,' and taking pictures with camera phones," Smith said, laughing.
Before Smith made her way to meet the other Miss Tennessee USA contestants, she added the fact that Clarksville will always be her home.
"I can't thank you enough for your continued faith and support," Smith said about Clarksville.
"I will always give back to Clarksville ... And if you see me, say 'Hey, what's up,' because I'm always interested in knowing what's going on back home."
Source: The Leaf Chronicle
By JAMIE DEXTER
The Leaf-Chronicle
Just one year ago, Rachel Smith was just like any other college student.
"I was a college student at Belmont University getting my journalism degree and trying to figure out what my thesis was going to be on and get that out of the way so I could graduate in December," Smith said while standing in front of the Montgomery County Court Complex.
Since then, Smith was crowned Miss Tennessee USA at last year's pageant, then later crowned Miss USA — the second from Clarksville to achieve that honor — and finished fourth runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant.
Saturday, Smith will be handing off the crown to the new Miss Tennessee USA winner.
Things have changed drastically for her since then — she went from "cruising through Clarksville in my Beetle" to arriving for a public appearance in a white stretch limo, escorted by several units from the Clarksville Police Department.
"It's a complete 180," Smith said, showcasing her signature smile that would put even the most nervous greeters at ease.
Since being crowned Miss USA, Smith said she's been up to a whole lot more than could be shared in a few minutes' time — from putting her journalism talents at work interviewing celebrities at a philanthropic summit in Spain to introducing Wyclef John during a concert at Radio City Music Hall.
"I've been in this gig now for 6 months maybe, and so far I've traveled to Kenya for a volunteer project through a non-profit organization in New York called Project Sunshine," Smith said. "I've emceed an event at the White House for Black Music Month ... at a philanthropic event in Spain I got to walk the red carpet at the gala and turn around and interview A-list celebrities there including Eva Longoria, Goldie Hawn, Paris Hilton — It was insane."
She's also featured in a MTV reality television show, "Pageant Place," where cameras capture her life along with the lives of Miss Universe Riyo Mori and Miss Teen USA Katie Blair.
Miss USA 2006 Tara Conner and Miss Teen USA Hilary Cruz are also featured on the show — airing Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.
"It's been interesting," Smith said. "I've been able to do some incredible things during the time of the reality show — some things I wouldn't have had the opportunity to do otherwise."
Smith said the girls don't have a say in the editing process, so she said it will be interesting watching along with the audiences at home.
"They follow us on appearances and catch the drama, or lack thereof, that goes on behind the scenes on the way to events," Smith said.
Despite being a very busy woman, Smith said there are a lot of things she misses about her hometown.
"My family, of course," Smith said. "I miss going down to the Riverwalk with my dog, Zoe ... and just seeing everyone. You couldn't go to Wal-Mart without seeing someone you knew, ya know?"
Smith said that even rang true when she returned to see her family for her homecoming, and she went grocery shopping with her mom.
"I was in my pajamas, just casual grunge clothes, and people were like, 'Oh, there's Rachel Smith,' and taking pictures with camera phones," Smith said, laughing.
Before Smith made her way to meet the other Miss Tennessee USA contestants, she added the fact that Clarksville will always be her home.
"I can't thank you enough for your continued faith and support," Smith said about Clarksville.
"I will always give back to Clarksville ... And if you see me, say 'Hey, what's up,' because I'm always interested in knowing what's going on back home."
Source: The Leaf Chronicle
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Miss Universe Canada adds sparkle to 12th annual Bay Street's AIDSbeat
Inga Skaya Miss Universe Canada 2007 and Canadian Idol's Zack Werner to
judge at rock & roll fundraiser for the Canadian Foundation for AIDS
Research October 12th
TORONTO, Oct. 4 /CNW/ - What do lawyers, a Canadian Idol judge and Miss
Universe Canada have in common? They're coming together in Toronto for a
BATTLE OF THE BANDS: AIDSbeat, the wildest party on Bay Street! 1,200 lawyers
are expected to let loose, and raise over $200,000 for the Canadian Foundation
for AIDS Research (CANFAR) on October 12th 2007 at the Capitol Event Theatre.
Inga Skaya Miss Universe Canada will join Canadian Idol judge Zack Werner
and National Post Legal Post writer Jim Middlemiss as celebrity judges of the
BATTLE OF THE BANDS. Mark Holmes of Mod Club fame will host the party,
featuring the eye popping AIDSbeat dancers, painted body models, a performance
by chart-topping pop sensation hip hop master JDiggz and a spectacular fashion
show by Escada featuring Escada Sport and Laurèl. AIDSbeat is presented by
Georgeson, a Computershare Company.
"We are celebrating the 12th anniversary of AIDSbeat," says Patricia
Olasker, AIDSbeat founder and co-chair. "The event shows the best side of the
Toronto legal community - a tradition and spirit of giving and sharing. It
also reveals the truth about lawyers: We are not all about grey flannel
trousers and button-down collars. This is a seriously unbuttoned party!"
Five bands, all featuring lawyers-by-day, will battle for first place.
Prepare to put your hands together for:
The Gavelheads (Morrison Brown Sosnovitch LLP, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, Ernst & Young LLP); - The Thin Skulls (McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Investment Dealers Association of Canada, Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing); - The Right Honourable Jake and The High Court of Soul (Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP); - The Insecurities (Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, Lenczner Slaght LLP) - Prior winners Jonas (Paliare Roland LLP, REMG Entertainment Corporation) as the opening act.
Event and Ticket Sales Information:
AIDSbeat tickets are $40 and available by phone at 416-361-6281 or online
at www.AIDSbeat.com. All proceeds from AIDSbeat support CANFAR, which raises
critically needed funds for HIV/AIDS research. Since inception, AIDSbeat has
raised over $1 million for AIDS research.
AIDSbeat will be held on Friday, October 12, 8:00 p.m. sharp at the
Capitol Event Theatre, 2492 Yonge Street (north of Eglinton).
About Georgeson, a Computershare Company:
Georgeson is proud to be the lead sponsor of this year's AIDSbeat.
Georgeson is the world's leading provider of strategic proxy and corporate
governance consulting services to corporations and shareholder groups working
to influence corporate strategy. Since 1935, Georgeson has specialized in
complex solicitations such as hostile and friendly acquisitions, proxy
contests and takeover defenses. Georgeson leads more M&A transactions globally
than any other firms combined. Georgeson also provides issuers with expertise
in corporate events solutions such as post-merger unexchanged holder programs
and information agent services.
Computershare is a global leader in transfer agency, employee equity
plans, proxy solicitation and other specialized financial and communications
services - serving more than 100 million shareholder accounts on behalf of
14,000 corporations in 17 countries.
About CANFAR:
CANFAR is the national charitable foundation whose goal is to raise
awareness in order to generate funds for research into all aspects of HIV
infection and AIDS. CANFAR is the only organization operating in Canada for
the sole purpose of privately funding research on AIDS and HIV infection in
numerous areas including fundamental and applied research, education and
prevention, psychosocial initiatives, care, and community research.
Source: CNW Group
judge at rock & roll fundraiser for the Canadian Foundation for AIDS
Research October 12th
TORONTO, Oct. 4 /CNW/ - What do lawyers, a Canadian Idol judge and Miss
Universe Canada have in common? They're coming together in Toronto for a
BATTLE OF THE BANDS: AIDSbeat, the wildest party on Bay Street! 1,200 lawyers
are expected to let loose, and raise over $200,000 for the Canadian Foundation
for AIDS Research (CANFAR) on October 12th 2007 at the Capitol Event Theatre.
Inga Skaya Miss Universe Canada will join Canadian Idol judge Zack Werner
and National Post Legal Post writer Jim Middlemiss as celebrity judges of the
BATTLE OF THE BANDS. Mark Holmes of Mod Club fame will host the party,
featuring the eye popping AIDSbeat dancers, painted body models, a performance
by chart-topping pop sensation hip hop master JDiggz and a spectacular fashion
show by Escada featuring Escada Sport and Laurèl. AIDSbeat is presented by
Georgeson, a Computershare Company.
"We are celebrating the 12th anniversary of AIDSbeat," says Patricia
Olasker, AIDSbeat founder and co-chair. "The event shows the best side of the
Toronto legal community - a tradition and spirit of giving and sharing. It
also reveals the truth about lawyers: We are not all about grey flannel
trousers and button-down collars. This is a seriously unbuttoned party!"
Five bands, all featuring lawyers-by-day, will battle for first place.
Prepare to put your hands together for:
The Gavelheads (Morrison Brown Sosnovitch LLP, Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt LLP, Ernst & Young LLP); - The Thin Skulls (McCarthy Tétrault LLP, Investment Dealers Association of Canada, Ontario Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing); - The Right Honourable Jake and The High Court of Soul (Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP); - The Insecurities (Davies Ward Phillips & Vineberg LLP, Lenczner Slaght LLP) - Prior winners Jonas (Paliare Roland LLP, REMG Entertainment Corporation) as the opening act.
Event and Ticket Sales Information:
AIDSbeat tickets are $40 and available by phone at 416-361-6281 or online
at www.AIDSbeat.com. All proceeds from AIDSbeat support CANFAR, which raises
critically needed funds for HIV/AIDS research. Since inception, AIDSbeat has
raised over $1 million for AIDS research.
AIDSbeat will be held on Friday, October 12, 8:00 p.m. sharp at the
Capitol Event Theatre, 2492 Yonge Street (north of Eglinton).
About Georgeson, a Computershare Company:
Georgeson is proud to be the lead sponsor of this year's AIDSbeat.
Georgeson is the world's leading provider of strategic proxy and corporate
governance consulting services to corporations and shareholder groups working
to influence corporate strategy. Since 1935, Georgeson has specialized in
complex solicitations such as hostile and friendly acquisitions, proxy
contests and takeover defenses. Georgeson leads more M&A transactions globally
than any other firms combined. Georgeson also provides issuers with expertise
in corporate events solutions such as post-merger unexchanged holder programs
and information agent services.
Computershare is a global leader in transfer agency, employee equity
plans, proxy solicitation and other specialized financial and communications
services - serving more than 100 million shareholder accounts on behalf of
14,000 corporations in 17 countries.
About CANFAR:
CANFAR is the national charitable foundation whose goal is to raise
awareness in order to generate funds for research into all aspects of HIV
infection and AIDS. CANFAR is the only organization operating in Canada for
the sole purpose of privately funding research on AIDS and HIV infection in
numerous areas including fundamental and applied research, education and
prevention, psychosocial initiatives, care, and community research.
Source: CNW Group
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
After Aziz, who's next in Sush's life?
Sushmita Sen is a woman of substance. She was the one who brought honour to our country by getting the much coveted Miss Universe title. She even dared to adopt a girl, Renee at a very young age. Even though she achieved everything in her life, she was always unlucky when it came to her relationships.Sushmita always dared to speak when questioned about her relationships. In fact there was a buzz that Sushmita was supposed to come up with an autobiography named as 'The Butterfly' that promised to shock all her readers.
Source: India Times Movies
Monday, October 1, 2007
PNM wants Wendy
Former Miss Universe tipped for Valley's seat
Anna Ramdass aramdass@trinidadexpress.com
PROSPECTIVE PNM CANDIDATE: Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam
Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam has been tipped as one of the prospective candidates to replace Diego Martin Central MP Ken Valley.
Fitzwilliam, who is currently the Vice President/General manager of Evolving Technologies and Enterprise Development Company Ltd (E-teck) might be one of the "new faces" Prime Minister Patrick Manning spoke about at a PNM political meeting in St Augustine last Friday, it was learned yesterday..
If Fitzwilliam decides to fulfil any political aspirations, the election battle will become a Queen versus Queen scenario as former Miss Trinidad and Tobago representative for Miss Universe Nicole Dyer is an active member of the Congress of the People (COP) and also their public relations officer. It will soon be revealed whether Dyer will contest any political seat when the COP presents its slate of candidates.
Fitzwilliam won the Miss Universe Pageant in 1998 and later became involved in social work. She was honoured by the United Nations with the title UNAIDS goodwill Ambassador, a result of her commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS.
She also a holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of the West Indies and was said to have been doing a remarkable job at E-teck-a Government company mandated to develop Trinidad's non-energy sector through the creation of new industry.
Speculation of Fitzwilliam's candidacy is high in the political arena, "I have heard about it, and if it is true then it will be very interesting," Dyer told the Express yesterday.
The PNM screening committee-blanked Valley, the current MP for Diego Martin and a call for new candidates was made.
Valley was screened as the lone candidate for Diego Martin Central last Thursday at Balisier House, Port of Spain but, was given the boot one day later-on Friday, the day Manning announced that General Elections will be held on November 5.
That very evening Manning told a massive crowd at St Augustine that the PNM will be presenting new faces and future leaders of Trinidad when the party presents its slate of candidates at Woodford Square, Port of Spain this Saturday.
Members of the Diego Martin Central Executive have maintained their staunch devotion and support to Valley and were not surrendering to any "new face" for that constituency seat.
Sources told the Express that Valley who has been fighting for a second chance since a PNM poll rated him as a low performing MP will continue to battle Manning who is hell bent on shaking up and changing the party for the elections.
The party was non committal on Fitzwilliam's candidacy.
"Right now it's an internal process going on and we have no official position in that regard," said PNM's Public Relations Officer Jerry Narace.
"It's news to me" said Valley when told by the Express about Fitzwilliam's possible candidacy.
Valley said he had no comment to make on being blanked by the screening committee.
The Express tried in vain to contact Fitzwilliam yesterday.
Source: Trinidad Express
Anna Ramdass aramdass@trinidadexpress.comPROSPECTIVE PNM CANDIDATE: Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam
Former Miss Universe Wendy Fitzwilliam has been tipped as one of the prospective candidates to replace Diego Martin Central MP Ken Valley.
Fitzwilliam, who is currently the Vice President/General manager of Evolving Technologies and Enterprise Development Company Ltd (E-teck) might be one of the "new faces" Prime Minister Patrick Manning spoke about at a PNM political meeting in St Augustine last Friday, it was learned yesterday..
If Fitzwilliam decides to fulfil any political aspirations, the election battle will become a Queen versus Queen scenario as former Miss Trinidad and Tobago representative for Miss Universe Nicole Dyer is an active member of the Congress of the People (COP) and also their public relations officer. It will soon be revealed whether Dyer will contest any political seat when the COP presents its slate of candidates.
Fitzwilliam won the Miss Universe Pageant in 1998 and later became involved in social work. She was honoured by the United Nations with the title UNAIDS goodwill Ambassador, a result of her commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS.
She also a holds a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree from the University of the West Indies and was said to have been doing a remarkable job at E-teck-a Government company mandated to develop Trinidad's non-energy sector through the creation of new industry.
Speculation of Fitzwilliam's candidacy is high in the political arena, "I have heard about it, and if it is true then it will be very interesting," Dyer told the Express yesterday.
The PNM screening committee-blanked Valley, the current MP for Diego Martin and a call for new candidates was made.
Valley was screened as the lone candidate for Diego Martin Central last Thursday at Balisier House, Port of Spain but, was given the boot one day later-on Friday, the day Manning announced that General Elections will be held on November 5.
That very evening Manning told a massive crowd at St Augustine that the PNM will be presenting new faces and future leaders of Trinidad when the party presents its slate of candidates at Woodford Square, Port of Spain this Saturday.
Members of the Diego Martin Central Executive have maintained their staunch devotion and support to Valley and were not surrendering to any "new face" for that constituency seat.
Sources told the Express that Valley who has been fighting for a second chance since a PNM poll rated him as a low performing MP will continue to battle Manning who is hell bent on shaking up and changing the party for the elections.
The party was non committal on Fitzwilliam's candidacy.
"Right now it's an internal process going on and we have no official position in that regard," said PNM's Public Relations Officer Jerry Narace.
"It's news to me" said Valley when told by the Express about Fitzwilliam's possible candidacy.
Valley said he had no comment to make on being blanked by the screening committee.
The Express tried in vain to contact Fitzwilliam yesterday.
Source: Trinidad Express
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