29, 2011
Thousands of Egyptians break a curfew to continue their protests against President Hosni Mubarak.
© 2011 Reuters
28 Jan 2011 21:23 Africa/Lagos
Statements by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on Tunisia and Egypt
PR Newswire
WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2011
WASHINGTON, Jan. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Catherine Ashton, the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, today made the following statement on Tunisia:
"I spoke earlier today with the newly appointed Tunisian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Ahmed Ounaies.
I congratulated the Minister on his appointment and confirmed the EU's solidarity with the
Tunisian people in their efforts to build a stable and pluralistic democracy with full respect for the rule of law and fundamental rights and freedoms. I expressed the EU's hope that the transitional Government will be able to organize free and fair democratic parliamentary and presidential elections as soon as possible. I welcomed the liberation of political prisoners and I stressed that freedom of association and legalization of all political parties are key components for the transition.
I confirmed the EU's readiness to provide its assistance and expertise for the preparation and organization of the electoral process and political reforms. I underscored the need to help and empower the civil society. The EU will review and update its strategy and assistance. I also emphasized the EU's commitment to continue our economic cooperation and the need for investors to redouble their confidence in Tunisia.
Minister Ounaies and I agreed to meet in the coming days.
The Tunisian Foreign Minister welcomed the EU's engagement and the offer to accompany his country's transition towards democracy with assistance."
Regarding the situation in Egypt, High Representative Ashton stated:
"I have followed very closely and with profound concern the reports of increased violence, clashes and arrests during today's demonstrations in Egypt.
The continued use of force against demonstrators by police and state security forces is deeply troubling. In order to avoid further deterioration of the situation in Cairo and elsewhere in Egypt, and to avoid more casualties, I reiterate my call on all parties to exercise restraint and calm and I urge the authorities to immediately and unconditionally release all peaceful demonstrators from detention.
I also reiterate my call upon the Egyptian authorities to urgently establish a constructive and peaceful way to respond to the legitimate aspirations of Egyptian citizens for democratic and socioeconomic reforms.
I will discuss these developments with my colleagues in the Foreign Affairs Council meeting on
Monday in Brussels."
SOURCE Delegation of the European Union to the United States
CONTACT: Silvia Kofler, +1-202-862 9523, or Kasper Zeuthen, +1-202-862 9530, both of the Delegation of the European Union to the United States
Web Site: http://www.eurunion.org
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Google makes Top 10 Places to work in the world
Happy Google staff in Africa
The world's leader in online search and major stakeholder in online solutions and other gadgets Google makes Top 10 of the best places to work in the world according FORTUNE.
And the winners are...
Fat paychecks, sweet perks, fun colleagues, and over 150,000 jobs ready to be filled -- these employers offer dream workplaces. Meet this year's top 100, network with the winners on LinkedIn, and more. More
SAS
Boston Consulting Group
Wegmans Food Markets
NetApp
See the top 100
Zappos.com
Camden Property Trust
Nugget Market
REI
Dreamworks
Friday, January 28, 2011
Only If Public leaders Could Take Tips from the Obi Code of Governance
Rt. Hon.(Prince) Sam Obi, Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly
Prince Sam Obi: Only If Public leaders Could Take Tips from the Obi Code of Governance
Suddenly the country in a much tiny way saw what it means to move the acts of governance forward not just with empty or hollow words but with words flowing with actions. Those who in the future seek national or state office could learn from Prince Sam Obi, the current Speaker of Delta State who served as interim Delta state Governor sometime in November, 2010 to the beginning of January, 2011.
Within three months Obi, as an acting Governor was governance-focused both in his words and actions.
It has been a very long time that the public saw a leader making a public pledge, and putting ideas out openly, fearlessly, and unwaveringly in a striking and unflinching manner.
Nigeria is now trying to find its self in the face of innumerable threats to economic security, institutional health and political stability. But here is the good news.
The ex-acting Governor has given us tips and ways that could reduce the sucking of the nation’s capital and has helped open new routes to exercising better leadership in government and in society.
In an introductory manner, Obi reminded us that the people live in “extra-ordinary times’, therefore if the nation is to address some of these “extra-ordinary circumstances” future or current leaders should boldly “fulfill a constitutional duty in accordance with dictates of democratic ethos and above all, the rule of law”.
As part of the Obi code of governance, he sees the acts of “cooperation, collaboration and understanding” as part of leadership challenge.
In a non-figurative manner, Obi, unlike any recent public leader advanced that it is paramount to be “committed to offering selfless service”, “run an open administration”, and remain open to “constructive criticisms”, and he believes in the welfare of the people, as he directs that the “people should (always) go about their normal duties.
As part of the new national narratives, he championed the need for “ hard work’, “honesty”, “accountability and transparency.”
As part of a new normal in leadership and governance strategy, Obi calls for leadership to “pledge loyalty to the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and selfless service to all”.
The Obi code of governance states that leaders should be able speak power to truth by making sure that “government will do all within its power to ensure that the machinery of governance continues to run without let or hindrance”.
As to those among the public who harbours the spirit of chaos, Obi believes that leaders should be able “to charge the law enforcement agencies to ensure that…nefarious persons” are controlled for the good and peace of the nation.
The Obi code of governance calls for bold actions and deeds, even if it is only about sending a psychological shock to self-satisfied leaders, and Obi partly demonstrated this process in “ the dissolution of the Executive Council…with immediate effect”.
Obi believes in praising leaders even if it is only to encourage them to do good by using their abilities and experiences to “ ensure smooth running of the machinery of government”.
Obi believed that leaders must act as role models in order to “enjoining them to avoid anything that would portray the government in negative light”.
Obi believes public service requires “workforce to be pro-active, efficient and productive” and he asserts that "civil service should be pro-active and efficient rather than being a liability”. As part of the Obi code of governance, he believes that small improvement s in human service, usually result into bigger dividends, as evidenced by his demand for workers to “avoid cases of absenteeism”, therefore ensuring efficiency and productivity.
He sees time management as essential ingredients to effective public practices, as in the case of “salary preparation to ensure that workers receive their pay on” time, and he asserts that promoting “strategies used in collecting internally generated revenue” are needed in behalf of the state or nation. The Obi code of governance demands on officials “to be careful and avoid fraud in the preparation of salaries and in the collection of internally generated revenue(s)”.
Along the same line, Obi asserts that to restore the spirit of leadership and positive practices “embargo on foreign Trips for Political Appointees and top Government Functionaries” becomes paramount.
Every sensible Nigerian will agree that the leadership situation in the nation currently wallows in chronic wrongdoing and the misuse of politics, as such transformation, no matter how small could come not by throwing the nation backward, as it currently appears but by adhering to the Obi code of governance.
Thank you, Sir and hopefully a leader in your image or mindset could be swept into the office of the presidency or other authority by the people and for the sake of ensuring a disciplined approach to governance.
~ By John Egbeazien Oshodi, Ph.D , DABPS, FACFE, is a Forensic/Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Science, North Campus, Broward College, Coconut Creek, Florida. joshodi@broward.edu
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Journey From Nigeria to Douye: Re-mastered Album From Pop Jazz Artist
26 Jan 2011 14:15 Africa/Lagos
Journey From Nigeria to Douye: Re-mastered Album From Pop Jazz Artist
PR Newswire
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 26, 2011
LOS ANGELES, Jan. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Known for her smoothly textured and sultry vocals, Nigerian born, LA based, pop jazz artist, "Douye" oozes with jazzuality as she takes us on a personal, "Journey". www.douyetheartist.com. Marketing and promotion pro Neal Sapper of the San Francisco bay area based New World 'n' Jazz, www.newworldnjazz.com, spearheads "Douye's" newly re-mastered freshman album, "Journey," with new artwork, which officially drops January 2011. 2010 Billboard's #1 of the 50 sexiest love songs of all time, and new to Glee's compilation, "Let's Get Physical's" writer and co-producer, "Terry Shaddick" along with rhythm and lead guitarist, "Jeff Pescetto" throw it down on, "Fly Away," the first track and first single to hit radio. After favorable feedback on its previous limited release it became quite evident that, "Journey" deserved a broader audience.
"Douye" is the perfect expression of a caterpillar now butterfly, with lots of room to grow.
Her grace and that gorgeous, slightly gapped smile puts us in the presence of a dark angel, who, having been in waiting is now ready to show wings that are fully spread.
"Journey", promises then delivers "Douye's" soft, yet open mood leaving your musical palette wanting more.
"Journey" can be heard on www.douyetheartist.com
www.facebook.com, www.twitter.com/douyetheartist, www.myspace.com/douyetheartist, www.last.fm/music/douye
www.youtube.com/watch?v=tsjhmR9ThrM
SOURCE ankh entertainment
CONTACT: osiris munir of the ankh entertainment group, +1-310-435-8419, or fax, +1-323-661-2295, ankhentone@ankhentertainmentone.net
Web Site: http://www.douyetheartist.com
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Receives the Credentials of the Permanent Representative of Nigeria
27 Jan 2011 13:03 Africa/Lagos
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Receives the Credentials of the Permanent Representative of Nigeria
ADDIS ABABA, January 27, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Dr. Jean Ping received in his office at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, 25 January 2011, the credentials of H.E. Mr. Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU, as the new Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the African Union.
Welcoming the new Permanent Representative, the Chairperson expressed his deep appreciation for the key role played by Nigeria in the African Union and its full support for the work of the Commission.
He requested Ambassador Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU to convey to H.E. President Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Odein Ajumogobia his sincere gratitude for their continued support and commended Nigeria for its leadership role in the preservation and restoration of peace, security and stability in West Africa and the entire Continent.
The Chairperson assured Ambassador Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU of the cooperation of the Commission in the fulfillment of his new assignment.
In response, the new Permanent Representative, who served as Nigeria's Ambassador to Ethiopia and the OAU in 1999, stated that Nigeria values the important contribution made by Chairperson Ping and the AUC towards the emergence of an African renaissance, and promised to work closely with the Commission to further strengthen the excellent relations that exist between the African Union and Nigeria.
The Chairperson and Ambassador Egbadekwu ONOBU also exchanged views on several topical issues related to the forthcoming AU Summit.
The ceremony was attended, among others, by Ambassador John Kayode Shinkaiye, Chief of Staff in the Bureau of Chairperson, Mr. Pierre Moussavou, Deputy Chief of Staff and Ambassador John Evonlah Aggrey, Diplomatic Adviser to the Chairperson.
Source: African Union Commission (AUC)
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission Receives the Credentials of the Permanent Representative of Nigeria
ADDIS ABABA, January 27, 2011/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Dr. Jean Ping received in his office at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa on Tuesday, 25 January 2011, the credentials of H.E. Mr. Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU, as the new Permanent Representative of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the African Union.
Welcoming the new Permanent Representative, the Chairperson expressed his deep appreciation for the key role played by Nigeria in the African Union and its full support for the work of the Commission.
He requested Ambassador Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU to convey to H.E. President Goodluck Jonathan and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Odein Ajumogobia his sincere gratitude for their continued support and commended Nigeria for its leadership role in the preservation and restoration of peace, security and stability in West Africa and the entire Continent.
The Chairperson assured Ambassador Eineje Egbadekwu ONOBU of the cooperation of the Commission in the fulfillment of his new assignment.
In response, the new Permanent Representative, who served as Nigeria's Ambassador to Ethiopia and the OAU in 1999, stated that Nigeria values the important contribution made by Chairperson Ping and the AUC towards the emergence of an African renaissance, and promised to work closely with the Commission to further strengthen the excellent relations that exist between the African Union and Nigeria.
The Chairperson and Ambassador Egbadekwu ONOBU also exchanged views on several topical issues related to the forthcoming AU Summit.
The ceremony was attended, among others, by Ambassador John Kayode Shinkaiye, Chief of Staff in the Bureau of Chairperson, Mr. Pierre Moussavou, Deputy Chief of Staff and Ambassador John Evonlah Aggrey, Diplomatic Adviser to the Chairperson.
Source: African Union Commission (AUC)
New Global Texting Champions Crowned At 2011 LG Mobile World Cup In New York City
Team Panama Wins USD $100,000 and Claims the Title of Fastest, Most Accurate Texters in the World
SAN DIEGO, January 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — LG Mobile Phones crowned the winner of the second annual LG Mobile World Cup today, naming the sister duo, Cristina Sales Ancines, age 20, and Jennifer Sales Ancines, age 15, from Panama as the “World’s Fastest Texters.” Defeating competitors from 16 countries to take home the title of LG Mobile World Cup Champions, the pair completed rigorous texting challenges and games to take home $100,000 in prize money and bragging rights that will last a lifetime.
Demonstrating their skills using the LG BL20 and the LG GT350, Cristina and Jennifer texted their way into World Cup glory by winning the final round of game play. Contestants from South Korea placed second and took home $20,000, while team Brazil placed third and won $10,000.
“We are so excited to have won this world title,” said Cristina. “Participating in this competition and getting to meet so many people from around the world has been a great learning experience and has led to many new friendships,” added Jennifer
In addition to the main competition, players also competed for the opportunity to break the Guinness World Records® achievement for the fastest texting on a QWERTY mobile phone device. Player, Cheong Kit Au from Australia, broke the current Guinness World Records® record for the fastest texting on a QWERTY mobile phone with a 264-character text he typed in just 1 minute and 17 seconds.
The 2011 LG Mobile World Cup took place on Jan. 26 in New York City at the historic Gotham Hall. During the competition, players competed in various texting missions, including wall of dark, monster guide, legendary trillion, touch-phone game (TBD), monster’s swamp and racing relay. In each mission, contestants were tasked with the challenge of typing in phrases on their LG mobile devices exactly as they appeared on nearby LG plasma screens with no mistakes or abbreviations, all while trying to out-text than their opponents.
Finalists selection for the LG Mobile World Cup began with a series of national texting contests across 16 countries including Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Indonesia, Korea, Morocco, Nicaragua, Panama, Portugal, South Africa, Thailand and the U.S. After several months, 26 contestants were chosen to compete in the hopes of becoming the word’s fastest texter.
# # #
About LG Electronics, Inc.
LG Electronics, Inc. (KSE: 066570.KS) is a global leader and technology innovator in consumer electronics, mobile communications and home appliances, employing more than 80,000 people working in over 115 operations around the world. With 2009 global sales of 55.5 trillion Korean won (USD 43.4 billion), LG comprises four business units – Home Entertainment, Mobile Communications, Home Appliance, and Air Conditioning and Energy Solution. LG is one of the world’s leading producers of flat panel TVs, audio and video products, mobile handsets, air conditioners and washing machines. LG has signed a long-term agreement to become both a Global Partner and a Technology Partner of Formula 1™. As part of this top-level association, LG acquires exclusive designations and marketing rights as the official consumer electronics, mobile phone and data processor of this global sporting event. For more information, please visit www.lg.com.
About LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company
The LG Electronics Mobile Communications Company is a leading global mobile communications and information company. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative design capabilities, LG creates handsets that provide an optimized mobile experience to customers around the world. LG is pursuing convergence technology and mobile computing products, while continuing its leadership role in mobile communication with stylish designs and smart technology. For more information, please visit www.lgmobilephones.com.
Media Contacts:
Demetra Kavadeles
LG MobileComm U.S.A., Inc.
(707) 328-5307
Demetra.Kavadeles@lge.com
Jackie Cox
LG-One
(914) 729-4235
Jacqueline.Cox@lg-one.com
Shell Oil Defends Nigeria Operations To Dutch Lawmakers
$100 million fine for a 40-year-ol
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Defendant counters libel suit of FIRS Boss over Chevron Tax Evasion Saga 2
The first part of this report Defendant counters libel suit of FIRS Boss over Chevron Tax Evasion Saga was published on Nigerians Report on TUESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2011. The following is the concluding part.
Fidelis Uzonwanne and ABZ Integrated Limited slam Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), with a counter claim of N50 Billion (Fifty Billion Naira) in the suit No. FCT/HC/CV/1331/2010.
In a liable suit filed by Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), claiming damages of N10 Billion (Ten Billion Naira) against Fidelis Uzonwanne, a Chartered Accountant, his consulting outfit, ABZ Integrated LTD as 6th & 7th defendants and 5 others, the 6th and 7th defendants made a counter claim of N50 Billion against the Plaintiff. They are equally asking for a speedy trial as they believe the Plaintiff’s suit is a calculated attempt to stall on-going investigations of the issues raised by the relevant government agencies and allow her a third term in office.
Fidelis Uzonwanne and ABZ Integrated Limited slam Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), with a counter claim of N50 Billion (Fifty Billion Naira) in the suit No. FCT/HC/CV/1331/2010.
In a liable suit filed by Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru, the Executive Chairman of Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), claiming damages of N10 Billion (Ten Billion Naira) against Fidelis Uzonwanne, a Chartered Accountant, his consulting outfit, ABZ Integrated LTD as 6th & 7th defendants and 5 others, the 6th and 7th defendants made a counter claim of N50 Billion against the Plaintiff. They are equally asking for a speedy trial as they believe the Plaintiff’s suit is a calculated attempt to stall on-going investigations of the issues raised by the relevant government agencies and allow her a third term in office.
President Jonathan, Invasion of High Court in Anambra
President Jonathan, the recent invasion of a sacred place like the Courthouse require your direct response
Sir, you and members of your executive council, the ministers in particular probably heard of the recent invasion by some offenders who stormed a High Court of Justice in an area of Anambra State, Nigeria.
Sir, as you know the court is one of the most sacred sites among public institutions where ordinary people, and persons of means go to in search of justice, protection or freedom.
In a society that deems itself as an emerging democracy , there is a deep , long and principled tradition of viewing the judiciary and its courts as sacred grounds of judgment which requires utmost protection at every second, minute, and hour.
Yet, this court in question at a time when it was in session would become adulterated by these invaders who picketed the court grounds and openly removed case files , court documents and even vandalized, as well as remove the presiding judge’s personal and official effects as well as other essentials.
Sir, it was also reported that the presiding judge’s panic call to the police received no immediate response, and worst of all, was the report that the invaders acted in the presence of the police, and that the police let go one of the invaders who had been held by a court staff.
Sir, you will agree that this is a disturbing trend as the courthouse terror, violence or thievery frightens not just the justices, judges and magistrates but the faith of the people in the courts become almost erased.
Sir, this puts the country’s already shaky democracy on delicate ground which is further compounded by the current scary political atmosphere across various regions in the nation.
Sir, you and your executive council must save the people from this type of public barbarity, and you Sir should come out publicly and for many very good reasons, personally condemn these heinous acts and assure the protection of the Court officials and documents. Please do this for God’s sake.
Sir, you must push hard against all forms of judicial-laced barbaric or evil inflicts on our young democracy. Doing this head on, through loud voice and outcry will send words of defeat against those that terrorize the courts. Also, potential invaders of the courts will learn a hard lesson, and outrageous acts from bad police officers will be stifled.
Sir, while you have not openly and vigorously supported a state police system which this writer and many others have called for , it is time for you to use executive order to put in place an exclusive body of court police and security agents around the courts and those that serve in the judiciary.
~ By John Egbeazien Oshodi, Ph.D , DABPS, FACFE, is a Forensic/Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Science, North Campus, Broward College, Coconut Creek, Florida. joshodi@broward.edu
Sir, you and members of your executive council, the ministers in particular probably heard of the recent invasion by some offenders who stormed a High Court of Justice in an area of Anambra State, Nigeria.
Sir, as you know the court is one of the most sacred sites among public institutions where ordinary people, and persons of means go to in search of justice, protection or freedom.
In a society that deems itself as an emerging democracy , there is a deep , long and principled tradition of viewing the judiciary and its courts as sacred grounds of judgment which requires utmost protection at every second, minute, and hour.
Yet, this court in question at a time when it was in session would become adulterated by these invaders who picketed the court grounds and openly removed case files , court documents and even vandalized, as well as remove the presiding judge’s personal and official effects as well as other essentials.
Sir, it was also reported that the presiding judge’s panic call to the police received no immediate response, and worst of all, was the report that the invaders acted in the presence of the police, and that the police let go one of the invaders who had been held by a court staff.
Sir, you will agree that this is a disturbing trend as the courthouse terror, violence or thievery frightens not just the justices, judges and magistrates but the faith of the people in the courts become almost erased.
Sir, this puts the country’s already shaky democracy on delicate ground which is further compounded by the current scary political atmosphere across various regions in the nation.
Sir, you and your executive council must save the people from this type of public barbarity, and you Sir should come out publicly and for many very good reasons, personally condemn these heinous acts and assure the protection of the Court officials and documents. Please do this for God’s sake.
Sir, you must push hard against all forms of judicial-laced barbaric or evil inflicts on our young democracy. Doing this head on, through loud voice and outcry will send words of defeat against those that terrorize the courts. Also, potential invaders of the courts will learn a hard lesson, and outrageous acts from bad police officers will be stifled.
Sir, while you have not openly and vigorously supported a state police system which this writer and many others have called for , it is time for you to use executive order to put in place an exclusive body of court police and security agents around the courts and those that serve in the judiciary.
~ By John Egbeazien Oshodi, Ph.D , DABPS, FACFE, is a Forensic/Clinical Psychologist and an Assistant Professor of Psychology and Behavioral Science, North Campus, Broward College, Coconut Creek, Florida. joshodi@broward.edu
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Americans Like People Who Speak Like They Do
26 Jan 2011 12:08 Africa/Lagos
Americans Like People Who Speak Like They Do
Half of adults think speakers with Southern accents are nice, British accents are sophisticated and New York City accents are rude
PR Newswire
NEW YORK, Jan. 26, 2011
NEW YORK, Jan. 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Accents are a funny thing. Certain ones prompt stereotypical thought, which might be why people often deny having an accent. Yet, when asked about various attributes, Americans living in the East, Midwest and South all give more flattering responses about the accents from their areas than do adults from elsewhere.
(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100517/NY06256LOGO )
These are some of the results of The Harris Poll ® of 2,331 adults surveyed online between December 6 and 13, 2010 by Harris Interactive®.
When asked to think about hearing various accents half of adults say they think speakers with a Southern accent are nice (49%), two in five say the same for speakers with a Midwest accent (40%), one in five say those with a British accent or New England accent are nice (19% and 18%, respectively) while less than one in ten say so for speakers with a New York City accent (7%).
Half of adults also think those with a British accent are sophisticated (47%)—far more than adults say so for any other accent (between 20% for New England accents, down to 6% for Southern accents). And, while half of adults think that speakers with New York City accents are rude (51%), very few adults say the same for any other accent listed (between 14% and 4%).
Regional Differences
Despite speakers sometimes denying their regional accent, adults award accents from their own area more positive descriptions and fewer negative ones, than adults from other areas do. For example:
* Southerners think that speakers with Southern accents are nice (59%) and honest (45%) more often than those from the West (42% and 28%), East (44% and 29%) and Midwest (45% and 31%) do;
* While just over one in ten adults think that speakers with a New York City accent are intelligent (12%), a higher percentage—18%—of those in the East say this, compared to fewer in the Midwest (12%), West (11%) and South (10%) who say the same;
* Similarly, one in six Easterners say those with a New York City accent are honest (16%), compared to very few in other regions who agree (between 4% and 6%); and,
* On the opposite end of the spectrum, although most adults think speakers with New York City accents are rude (51%), only 46% of Easterners agree, compared to more Midwesterners (54%), Southerners (54%) and Westerners (48%) who say this.
This pattern continues as Midwesterners say that speakers with a Midwest accent are well-educated, intelligent, nice and honest more frequently than adults from other regions say the same. In fact, over half of Midwesterners (55%) say someone with a Midwestern accent is nice compared to 42% of Westerners, 36% of Easterners and just 31% of Southerners who say this.
Does this matter?
Americans cheerleading for their own regional accents is not limited to complimentary adjectives—U.S. adults think that their accents would actually beat out the others in a competitive job market. When asked if four equally qualified applicants for a certain job were only differentiated by their accent, two in five adults (39%) say that the applicant with the Midwestern accent would get the job. However, 63% of Midwesterners say this compared to between 41% and 21% of adults from the other regions who do.
With regard to other regions, a quarter of Easterners say the job would go to the person with the New England accent (26%) compared to fewer adults from elsewhere who agree (between 17% and 9%). One in five Easterners (19%) also say it would go to the New Yorker (compared to between 14% and 7% of those from other areas), and one in five Southerners (18%) say it would go to their applicant, compared to very few adults from elsewhere who agree (between 7% and 3%). Easterners are also more likely than other regions to say the job would go to the person with the British accent (27%).
So What?
Although TV news and other media personalities often work to overcome distinctive regional accents, it doesn't seem that local inflections are bothersome, at least not to an audience from that area. However, it might be interesting if speakers are skilled enough to play up their accent, or not, depending on their situation – it appears there may be circumstances where a different style of pronunciation could work well to one's advantage.
Hot Topics
Click here for the complete report
Controversial African film nominated for Best Foreign Language Oscar
Outside the LawThe controversial African film Outside the Law made it to the final five nominees for the 83rd Academy Awards Best Foreign Language Film. A record third time for the director, but I doubt if Rachid Bouchareb’s film can beat the Mexican film Biutiful by Alejandro González Iñárritu. "Biutiful" also got the lead actor Javier Bardem a nomination for Best Actor and tipped by top Hollywood stars to win the Oscar for the Best Foreign Language Film. Julia Roberts is in love with the movie.
Biutiful"Biutiful" which is the humourous Spanish spelling of beautiful was in competition for the Palme d'Or at the last Cannes Film Festival where Bardem shared the Best Actor award with Elio Germano for Daniele Luchetti's "La Nostra Vita". It was the Best Foreign Language Film of 2010 at the 17th Dallas-Fort Worth Film Critics Association Awards and also nominated for the 64th British Academy Film Awards for Best Film not in the English Language and Javier Bardem getting another nomination for Best Actor.
The shortlisted films competing for the Best Foreign Language Film Oscar are "Dogtooth," by Greece's Yorgos Lanthimos; "Algeria's "Outside the Law," directed by Rachid Bouchareb; "Incendies," from Canada's Denis Villeneuve; "In a Better World," by Denmark's Susanne Bier; and "Biutiful," by Mexico's Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu.
Click here to see all Nominees for the 83rd Academy Awards.
Many foreign films had theatrical releases in North America in 2010. The notables included the French production “Babies”, “I am Love” from Italy and “The Secret in Their Eyes” from Argentina that won an Oscar last year. Sandy Mandelberger, a New York film Editor has a detailed report posted on Fest 21.
While some African countries have made it to the Foreign Language Film category of the Oscars, Nigeria has not even made it to the competition at the Cannes Film Festival, except in some minor international film festivals in the US, Europe, Asia and Africa. Nigeria boasts of Nollywood, the so called second largest movie industry in the world, but with nothing much to show for it, except the proliferation of substandard home videos circulated by pirates with impunity.
Jeta Amata’s "Amazing Grace", Stephanie Okereke’s "Through the Glass", Kunle Afolayan’s "The figurine (Araromire)" and Chineze Anyaene’s "IJÉ: The Journey" made so much buzz in the local media with claims of breaking box office records in Nigeria, but they have not even found major distributors in the US and Europe. Now Jeta Amata’s new film "Black Gold" and Mahmood Ali-Balogun’s "Tango with Me" are being hyped with great expectations and the only way to prove their worth is not pulling crowds at the few cinemas in Nigeria, but competing with the best at the Cannes and making the nominations for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 2012 Academy Awards. Until then, the best is yet to come in Nollywood.
~ By Ekenyerengozi Michael Chima
Are You Ready to Chill?
25 Jan 2011 16:08 Africa/Lagos
Are You Ready to Chill?
Nap Nanny® Announces the Arrival of the Chill™, the Only Portable Infant Recliner Designed for Sleep, Play and Peace of Mind
PR Newswire
DEVON, Pa., Jan. 25, 2011
DEVON, Pa., Jan. 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Nap Nanny Chill is now available and is the answer to every parent's search for better sleep. Now, with the Nap Nanny Chill, anytime can be Chill time, at home or on the go. The Nap Nanny is the only portable infant recliner that provides a safe, stable secure place for baby, asleep or awake. Consumer testing with the new Nap Nanny Chill showed that even the fussiest babies relax and sleep better, giving everyone in the house the sleep they deserve.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20110125/PH35236 )
"We've heard amazing stories from grateful parents whose babies have found peace in the Nap Nanny Chill. Not only are they relaxing happily they're snoozing for longer, at nap time and nighttime," says President and Founder Leslie Gudel. The Nap Nanny has been in high demand since Gudel, a sportscaster and Mom-treprener, debuted the product in January 2009. The original, patented Nap Nanny was invented by the sleep deprived sportscaster when her healthy baby girl would only sleep upright in a car seat or loving arms.
"We're constantly tweaking and improving, and our engineers have worked hard to make the Chill even more comfortable for babies of all ages," she says of the revolutionary Nap Nanny, the high density foam product which has helped infants (over 8 lbs.) sleep, feed and play in an inclined, comfortable position.
Weighing in at only 3 lbs, the portable Nap Nanny Chill offers a snugger fit at the hips, with slightly higher sides, a redesigned three-point harness, a wide base for stability, and a waterproof liner to protect the foam core. It mimics the basic contours of a car seat, but is sloped at 30° at the top and curved gently at the foot to cradle the baby and prevent sliding.
The Nap Nanny Chill comes with one super-soft, washable zip cover and is available in traditional Pink and Blue, two neutrals — Sage and Camel — as well as the playful Giraffe print. Extra covers are sold separately, and a new travel carrier is also now available.
Like its predecessor, the Nap Nanny Chill recliner is a stand-alone product and not a sleep positioner. It can be carried easily from room to room, but is designed for FLOOR USE ONLY — it should never be placed in a crib, play yard or elevated surface.
The Nap Nanny Chill is available through a number of online retail outlets, at retail stores throughout the USA and Canada or at www.napnanny.com.
Baby Matters, LLC, parent company of Nap Nanny, is a privately held company and was founded in 2009.
CONTACT: Karin Buck, 215-694-9944, Karin@napnanny.com
SOURCE Nap Nanny
CONTACT: Karin Buck, +1-215-694-9944, Karin@napnanny.com
Web Site: http://www.napnanny.com
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Defendant counters libel suit of FIRS Boss over Chevron Tax Evasion Saga
Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru
Mr. Fidelis Uzonwanne, the Managing Director of ABZ Integrated Limited, an Abuja based company has filed a counter claim against Mrs. Ifueko Omoigui Okauru, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) to deny the allegations of unwarranted monetary demands from FIRS or illegitimate claims made by the plaintiff against him and his company in her April 16th 2010 libel suit against Roobbs Communications Network Limited, the publishers of The Premier newspaper and the other defendants Messrs.Rotimi Sulyman, Musbau Razak, Lanre Olaleye and Gboyega Adeoye at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria.
Mrs. Okauru in her suit at the High Court in Abuja is claiming N10 billion in damages caused by the news story: "FACE OF A FRAUD TAX BOSS, OMOIGUI -OKAURU IN N74BN SCAM" titled "TAX FRAUD FIRS BOSS, OMOIGUI-OKAIRU FINGERED IN $492M SCAM", published on Tuesday 9 MARCH – MONDAY 15 MARCH 2010 edition of The Premier newspaper, accusing her and others of the diversion of some N74 billion tax payment from Chevron Nigeria Limited.
In the suit N0: FCT/HC/CV /1331/2010 filed by N.I Okpo ESQ of ROPHEKA PARTNERS, PENTHOUSE SUITE, COPPER HOUSE, N0 4, ALGIERS STREET, ZONE 5, WUSE Abuja, on 16th April 2010, Mrs. Okauru claimed that The Premier newspaper and Fidelis Uzonwanne were intimidating her to authorize the payment of 10% of US$491, 509, 303.31, allegedly recovered from Chevron Nigeria Limited to Mr. Fidelis Uzonwanne, the Managing Director of ABZ Integrated Limited.
See The Untold Story of the $10.8 Billion Tax Evasion and Fraud By Chevron Nigeria Limited and Its Associated Companies published on the Nigerians Report on Wednesday, March 31, 2010.
The following are the first 10 of the 28 documents of the statement of defence and counter claim of Mr. Fidelis Uzonwanne, the Managing Director of ABZ Integrated Limited at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria. The remaining parts will be published before the end of this week.
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