Sew La Ti Embroidery [Search results for Queen

  • Dinner for 171! The Queen treats the Obamas to a state banquet... and invites a few of their Hollywood friends

    Dinner for 171! The Queen treats the Obamas to a state banquet... and invites a few of their Hollywood friends
    By JESSICA SATHERLEY
    ©Cheers! The Queen toasts the Obama's visit before they sit down to a dinner of lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte
    After a long day of public appearances, President Obama and US First Lady Michelle were treated to a state banquet at Buckingham Palace, hosted by the Queen tonight.
    The star-studded banquet saw 171 guests arrive, including Tom Hanks, Kevin Spacey and Tim Burton, who dined on lamb, roast potatoes and vanilla Charlotte.
    Also at Her Majesty’s banquet in honour of the Obamas were David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Boris Johnson.
    Former Prime Ministers Tony Blair and Gordon Brown also attended, as did Ed Miliband, Richard Branson and Helena Bonham Carter.
    Hollywood actor Hanks sat next to Ffion Hague, the wife of the Foreign Secretary, while Kevin Spacey was beside Sophie, the Countess of Wessex – wife of Prince Edward.
    ©Dinner for 171: The lavish banquet, hosted by the Queen, was to honour the Obama's state visit, and the President and First Lady posed here with the Royal couple before enjoying their meal
    Michelle Obama and the Queen both wore white gowns to the event, while President Obama opted for a traditional black suit that boasted a white bow tie and matching shirt.
    The First Lady accessorised her gorgeous floor-length gown with long white gloves and dangling earrings, while her hair was tied neatly up into a bun.
    ©Ladies in white: Both Michelle Obama and the Queen opted for long white gowns on the special occassion, but luckily weren't wearing the same dress
    As the Queen welcomed the Obamas, she said: ‘Today the US remains our most important ally. But our relationship goes far beyond our military ties.’
    She celebrated the special relationship between the US and Great Britain and highlighted their ‘shared history, common language and strong intellectual and cultural links’, during her welcome speech.
    Her Majesty said she had ‘fond memories’ of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London.
    The lavish dinner was hosted in the Palace’s ballroom, where the Prince of Wales hosted the private meal for 300 on the evening of the royal wedding.
    ©Welcome speech: Her Majesty said she had 'fond memories' of first meeting the Obamas in 2009 at the G20 conference in London
    Earlier in the day the Obamas had visited Number Ten after laying a wreath on the tomb of an unknown soldier at Westminster Abbey.
    It is the couple’s first state visit to Britain and are staying at Buckingham Palace, instead of having to face an ordinary five star hotel.
    They arrived last night after their visit to Ireland and will spend tonight and tomorrow night in the luxurious Belgian Suite of Palace, which is the same suite Prince William and Kate spent their first night as a married couple.
    Despite not attending the Royal Wedding last month, the President and his wife met up with Prince William and his new bride today and talked for around 15 minutes with the newly-weds.
    On the Obama’s arrival, they were greeted with a 41-gun salute alongside The Queen, Prince Philip, Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.
    Her Most Gracious Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Arrives For State Banquet At Buckingham Palace


    source: dailymail

    VIA Dinner for 171! The Queen treats the Obamas to a state banquet... and invites a few of their Hollywood friends

  • The Prince and the President: William greets Obama and Michelle at the Palace as tanned Kate takes to Royal duties like a natural

    The Prince and the President: William greets Obama and Michelle at the Palace as tanned Kate takes to Royal duties like a natural
    By JAMES WHITE
    ©Newlyweds: Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, back from their honeymoon, meet with the First couple inside Buckingham Palace
    President and First Lady flew to London a day early due to ash cloud fears
    Just third state visit by U.S. President to Britain in 100 years
    Obama and Cameron vow to support 'Arab Spring' uprising
    Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge today welcomed the President of the United States to Buckingham Palace in their first big test as a Royal couple.
    Fresh from their Seychelles honeymoon, a well-tanned Duchess of Cambridge performed her Royal duties with aplomb as she spoke to Mr and Mrs Obama in a 10-minute private meeting.
    There were smiles all round moments earlier when the Obamas arrived at Buckingham Palace and were met by the Queen and Prince Philip.
    ©Sorry we couldn't make the wedding: The couples chat and no doubt the recent Royal marriage ceremony was a topic of conversation
    ©
    Friendly: The couples met before President Obama was the subject of a 41-gun salute
    They arrived in the Presidential limousine known as The Beast, which pulled into the front of Buckingham Palace just before noon.
    After the meeting of the heads of state, the Obamas spent about 10 minutes speaking with Prince William and the Duchess of Cambridge, before meeting more Royal figures.
    Senior members of the Queen's household were introduced to the Obamas in the Bow room.
    Among them were the Queen's private secretary Christopher Geidt, her treasurer Sir Alan Reed, master of the household Air Vice Marshall David Walker, and the Lord Chamberlain Earl Peel.
    Others who met the president and his wife included Brigadier Archie Miller-Bakewell, Philip's private secretary, Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Ford, comptroller of the Lord Chamberlain's Office, and a number of ladies-in-waiting to the Queen including Virginia Ogilvy, Countess of Airlie.
    ©Having a giggle: The Duchess of Cambridge and Michelle Obama enjoy a brief moment of hilarity during their meeting
    ©Meet and greet: The Queen welcomes Barack Obama to Buckingham Palace, watched by his wife Michelle and Prince Philip
    ©Old friends reunited: Two years on from their last meeting, the Obamas and the Queen and Prince Philip look pleased to see one another
    The Obamas were then taken to Buckingham Palace Gardens where they faced with a guard of honour, 101 soldiers from the 1st Battalion, Scots Guards, and three officers lined up in two rows. Behind them were the Band, Pipes and Drums of the Scots Guard.
    The air was shattered by the noise of booming gunfire as a 41-gun salute was begun by the King's Troop Royal Horse Artillery in nearby Green Park while simultaneously at the Tower of London another was fired by the Honourable Artillery Company.
    The guardsmen gave a royal salute and then the American national anthem was played in honour of the US president.
    ©Hold on to your hats! The windy weather plays havoc with the Royal party
    ©
    Ceremonial welcome: The Obamas are joined by members of the Royal Family to hear the U.S. national anthem
    The British National Anthem was not performed as the Queen is in residence at the palace and so it was needed to mark her arrival at the historic building.
    Major Rory Shannon, in command of the guard of honour, approached the heads of state and formally stated that the troops were ready for inspection. Mr Obama, with the Duke, then walked down the terrace steps to the waiting soldiers in their bearskins and scarlet tunics.
    The major escorted the president along the two lines of guardsmen as Philip followed a pace behind.
    The U.S. leader could be seen exchanging words with the senior officer as they passed the troops who, when not performing ceremonial duties, are fighting soldiers.
    ©Guard of honour: Prince Philip accompanies Mr Obama as they inspect soldiers of the Household Cavalry in Buckingham Palace Gardens
    ©Protection: The heavily-armoured Presidential limousine arrives at Buckingham Palace
    At the end of the inspection, Mr Obama took his place beside the Queen and watched as the guardsmen marched off before the party headed inside for lunch.
    Earlier the President declared the UK-U.S. partnership 'an essential relationship for us and for the world'.
    But he began his visit today by making a solemn statement about the loss of life in Joplin, Missouri, where a tornado claimed 116 lives on Sunday night.
    The U.S. president flew into Stansted airport ahead of schedule last night to avoid the possibility of disruption to air travel from the ash cloud from an erupting Icelandic volcano.
    He had been due to fly from Ireland on board Air Force One this morning to be greeted at the Essex airport by the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.
    But the decision was taken to bring forward the visit after the announcement of cancellations to some UK commercial flights due to the ash billowing from the Grimsvotn volcano - with more disruption expected in the days to come.
    ©Arrival: Crowds strain to take pictures of the Presidential limousine, accompanied by police outriders, as it arrives at Buckingham Palace
    ©Welcoming party: President Obama, left with Prince Charles, and First Lady Michelle, right with the Duchess of Cornwall, leave the U.S. Ambassador's residence Winfield House today
    ©
    Relaxed: The President enjoys a joke with Prince Charles, left, while Michelle Obama and the Duchess of Cornwall are deep in conversation
    The state visit - only the third by a U.S. president to the UK in 100 years - comes at a time of close co-operation between Britain and America on issues ranging from Libya to Afghanistan, counter-terrorism and the Middle East peace process.
    This strong partnership was reflected in a joint article written by Mr Obama and Prime Minister David Cameron for The Times, in which they declare: 'Ours is not just a special relationship, it is an essential relationship - for us and for the world.'
    After his early arrival, Mr Obama was spending the night in the US ambassador's residence in London, Winfield House in Regent's Park.
    ©Solemn: Barack Obama began his British visit today by making a statement about the appalling loss of life in Joplin, Missouri, where a tornado left at least 116 people dead
    Despite the hasty change to their planned schedule, Mr Obama and wife Michelle were still given the formal welcome expected of a state visit.
    They were greeted by the Lord in Waiting Viscount Brookeborough, who met them on behalf of the Queen.
    Instead of a traditional red carpet they left the plane on special red-carpeted stairs because of windy conditions at the airport.
    Later today the Obamas will view the royal picture gallery before a wreath-laying visit to Westminster Abbey and a state banquet in the evening.
    The couple will stay as guests of the Queen at Buckingham Palace tonight and tomorrow.
    Tomorrow will be devoted to politics, with talks between Mr Obama and Mr Cameron at 10 Downing Street, followed by an address to both Houses of Parliament, in which the president is expected to say that the US has no closer ally in the world than Britain.
    In their joint article, Mr Obama and Mr Cameron put the transatlantic partnership at the heart of the drive for global stability and prosperity.
    ©Hello Britain: President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle step off Air Force One as they arrive at London Stansted Airport last night
    ©Touchdown: Air Force One arrives at Stansted Airport, London ahead of schedule due to fears volcanic ash would spread over Britain today
    'When the United States and Britain stand together, our people and people around the world can become more secure and more prosperous,' they wrote.
    'And that is the key to our relationship. Yes, it is founded on a deep emotional connection, by sentiment and ties of people and culture.
    'But the reason it thrives, the reason why this is such a natural partnership, is because it advances our common interests and shared values.
    'It is a perfect alignment of what we both need and what we both believe. And the reason it remains strong is because it delivers time and again.
    'Ours is not just a special relationship, it is an essential relationship - for us and for the world.'
    They also promised not to abandon the protesters fighting for democracy in the 'Arab Spring'.
    ©Flying the flag: British and American colours stand along The Mall leading to Buckingham Palace in preparation for the visit
    'We will not stand by as their aspirations get crushed in a hail of bombs, bullets and mortar fire,' said the two leaders.
    'We are reluctant to use force, but when our interests and values come together, we know we have a responsibility to act...
    'We will stand with those who want to bring light into dark, support those who seek freedom in place of repression, aid those laying the building blocks of democracy.'
    It comes after Foreign Secretary William Hague and US secretary of state Hillary Clinton sent out a message to Syria's President Bashar Assad to halt his regime's repression of pro-democracy activists.
    Speaking to American reporters shortly before Mr Obama's arrival, Mr Cameron said there was 'an incredible alignment of views' between his administration and the White House on key global issues, including the military mission in Libya, the uprisings of the Arab Spring, Afghanistan and Pakistan.
    ©
    'Smile, honey. We'll be meeting the Queen and that hat cost a lot of money.'
    And he paid lavish tribute to Mr Obama's style, saying that as well as being 'courageous' over issues such as Osama bin Laden, he was also 'thoughtful, measured and serious'.
    The current closeness of the UK-U.S. relationship was remarked upon at a joint press conference following talks between Mr Hague and Mrs Clinton at the Foreign Office.
    Mrs Clinton joked: 'If there were any closer alignment, we would worry about each other.'
    The two leaders are expected to drop in on a barbecue being hosted by their wives Michelle and Samantha for families of military personnel involved in joint UK-U.S. missions overseas.
    Mr Obama is due to travel on to France on Thursday morning for the G8 summit of leading industrialised nations in Deauville, also being attended by Mr Cameron.
    Raw Video: Obamas Visit Buckingham Palace

    source: dailymail

    VIA The Prince and the President: William greets Obama and Michelle at the Palace as tanned Kate takes to Royal duties like a natural

  • Christine Oparin is the Queen of Ukraine Earth 2011

    Christine Oparin is the Queen of Ukraine Earth 2011
    Road to Miss Earth 2011
    Christine Oparin was crowned Queen of Ukraine Earth 2011 on May 22, 2011. The title Queen of the Ukraine-Earth was won by Christine Oparin, from Kharkov, at the National Opera of Ukraine. She will represent Ukraine 11th Miss Earth pageant this December.
    ©
    Special thanks and credits to obozrevatel.com &beautypageantnews.com

    VIA Christine Oparin is the Queen of Ukraine Earth 2011

  • 'There are no words to match this moment': Oprah Winfrey takes her final bow after 25 years as reigning chat show queen

    'There are no words to match this moment': Oprah Winfrey takes her final bow after 25 years as reigning chat show queen
    By DIONNE CLARKE
    ©Goodbye: Oprah Winfrey bade farewell to her talk show today after 25 years giving fans a 'love letter' in thanks for their support over the years
    Oprah Winfrey ended her famous talk show today by telling her viewers of 25 years that they were not saying goodbye.
    'I'll just say until we meet again,' the 57-year-old mogul said.
    She hugged and kissed her long term partner Stedman Graham and shook hands with audience members before walking through the halls of Harpo Studios in Chicago, hugging and crying with her staff.
    ©
    Feeling the love: The 57-year-old walked on stage to a standing ovation from her studio audience that was filled with her 'ultimate viewers'
    Winfrey shouted 'We did it!' as the last shot of the finale showed Winfrey walking away with her cocker spaniel, Sadie.
    Earlier she had walked on stage to a standing ovation from her studio audience. She thanked the viewers for watching her for a quarter of a century.
    ©Heartfelt: Oprah was on stage alone for the duration of the show where she said that 'there are no words to match this moment'
    'Twenty-five years and I'm still saying, "Thank you America,"' Winfrey said. 'Thank you so much. There are no words to match this moment.'
    ©Excited: Hundreds of fans waited outside Oprah's Harpo Studios in Chicago yesterday to catch a glimpse of the media mogul on her last day
    ©Queen of Talk: A dedicated fan paid her own tribute to the talk show host who has touched the hearts of many viewers in the past quarter of a century
    ©First day: Oprah debuted her nationally syndicated show in 1986 and it has gone on to make her a self-made billionaire
    ©What a send off: Winfrey's final show on will air on Wednesday. From left Oprah on stage with guests including Tom Hanks, Queen Latifah, Madonna, Dakota, Halle, Katie Holmes and Tom Cruise
    The final taping nevertheless had its share of celebrities in the audience including Tyler Perry, Maria Shriver, Suze Orman and Cicely Tyson. None of them joined Winfrey on stage.
    There were 404 audience members, according to Harpo Productions. The show received 1.4 million ticket requests throughout its final season.
    Oprah will now be based in California at her Montecito home. She will focus her efforts on her new network, OWN which launched in January.
    ©©©©©
    Raw Video: Oprah Says 'Until We Meet Again'

    source: dailymail

    VIA 'There are no words to match this moment': Oprah Winfrey takes her final bow after 25 years as reigning chat show queen

  • President and PM dish up burgers at 'Obama-Q' honouring American and British veterans

    President and PM dish up burgers at 'Obama-Q' honouring American and British veterans
    By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
    ©Barack Obama and David Cameron serve food from a barbecue as they entertain British and American service members and veterans at 10 Downing Street today
    Taliban must make 'decisive split' with al Qaida, says Cameron in joint press conference with Obama after garden party
    Forget table tennis - this is the ultimate photo opportunity for Barack Obama and David Cameron.
    The UK and U.S. leaders forged a special culinary relationship today as they manned the grill at a barbecue in honour of servicemen in the garden at No. 10.
    It was a moment of fun after this morning's in-depth talks on issues ranging from military campaigns in Libya and Afghanistan to global economic reform.
    ©Obama and Cameron diligently serve a burger to a soldier wounded in service during the garden party
    ©U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama and Samantha Cameron, wife of the Prime Minister, serve food at the barbecue for British and American service members and veterans
    The pair gamely served the cooked meat at the lunch party while their wives, Samantha and Michelle, spooned side dishes onto the plates of 150 American and British service members.
    The Prime Minister and the President appeared at ease as they performed their catering duties in shirt sleeves, chatting and laughing while they worked.
    ©Servicemen and their partners arrive at the Downing Street garden party, which was attended by 150 American and British military personnel
    ©
    The Prime Minister, left, and the President appeared at ease as they entertained military personnel in shirt sleeves
    Both leaders worked together to pile food on to one wounded soldier's plate, as other guests queued at the food-laden tables.
    Following the barbecue, Obama and Cameron gave a joint press conference in which the Prime Minister said Taliban must make a 'decisive split' with al Qaida if a political settlement in Afghanistan is to be brokered.
    Speaking outside Lancaster House in London, Mr Cameron said the U.S. operation against Osama bin Laden represented a 'strike right at the heart of international terrorism'.
    Mr Cameron said the next 12 months represented a 'vital year' in Afghanistan, while British and American troops had 'broken the momentum of the insurgency' in the country.
    ©Mr Obama speaks during a joint press conference with David Cameron at Lancaster House today. The Prime Minister said the next 12 months represented a 'vital year' in Afghanistan
    In the Taliban heartland of Kandahar and central Helmand, the insurgents were 'on the back foot', the Prime Minister said.
    Calling for a political settlement, he told the press conference: 'Now is the moment to step up our efforts to reach a political settlement.
    Obama arrived at Downing Street before 10am this morning for discussions with Cameron as he got down to the real political business of his state visit.
    ©Obama and Cameron, right, were joined by Nick Clegg, left, for today's talks at Downing Street. Mr Clegg, gesturing to the sunlit windows, said to the U.S. leader: 'You've brought the sun today'
    ©Mr Obama shares a joke with Nick Clegg at 10 Downing Street. Shaking hands with the Deputy Prime Minister, the U.S. leader said: 'Wonderful to see you'
    During the talks, the U.S. President insisted the alliance between America and the UK is key to providing global security after a 'difficult decade'.
    Nick Clegg proved that three isn't always a crowd as he joined the leaders and was seen sharing a joke with the President.
    Mr Obama was smiling broadly after making the short journey in Cadillac One - his bombproof limousine known as 'The Beast' - from Buckingham Palace.
    The leaders greeted each other with a handshake before Mr Obama patted the Prime Minister on the shoulder.
    They then shook hands again on the steps of No. 10 but they were no
    ©Obama smiles before today's meeting with Cameron. The U.S. President and the Prime Minister are to spend the morning holding talks before a joint press conference in Downing Street
    ©
    Commander-in-chief: Barack Mr Obama takes a seat across from David Cameron (second left) in the Cabinet Room for today's talks on security with other ministers, advisers and officials
    ©Barack Obama is greeted by the Prime Minister outside 10 Downing Street this morning. The pair are discussing issues ranging from military campaigns in Libya and Afghanistan to global economic reform
    He is expected to tell MPs and peers that even though the world has changed significantly since the Second World War, the UK-US relationship and the broader transatlantic alliance is still the 'cornerstone of global security'.
    The 'Arab Spring' in the Middle East and North Africa reinforce that the allies' shared beliefs are 'not just relevant but essential', he is to say.
    The president will also strike an optimistic note by claiming that the world is 'turning a corner' following a 'difficult decade'.
    As well as operations winding down in Iraq, the shift to Afghanistan taking control of its own security has begun, and al Qaida has been 'weakened' by successes such as the recent killing of Osama bin Laden.
    Yesterday, large parts of central London were brought to a standstill as crowds gathered to welcome the president for his first state visit.
    ©Obama and Cameron wave to members of the media outside the Prime Minister's official residence, prior to their meeting
    ©Mr Obama made the short journey in Cadillac One - his bombproof limousine known as 'The Beast' - from Buckingham Palace
    ©Police marksmen take position on rooftops along Whitehall as the Presidential motorcade arrives at Downing Street this morning. Helicopters were seen whirring overhead, as part of the major security operation
    After being greeted by the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh at Buckingham Palace, the president and first lady met newlyweds the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge before Mr Obama laid a wreath at the Grave of the Unknown Warrior in Westminster Abbey.
    Mr Obama and Mr Cameron then dropped in on a south London school where they took off their jackets to play two schoolboys at table tennis.
    But the Anglo-American team took a sound beating at the hands of 16-year-olds Jason Do and Jamiyu Mojaji at the Globe Academy in Southwark.
    Mr and Mrs Obama then attended a star-studded state banquet in the president's honour at Buckingham Palace last night as the Queen hailed the US as Britain's 'most important ally'.
    ©
    Cameron and Obama pose for the army of press photographers gathered outside 10 Downing Street
    ©U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton walks with British Foreign Secretary William Hague to join Obama at 10 Downing Street
    ©The smartly dressed driver of the President's vehicle brushes down its shiny exterior as she waits for him outside the Prime Minister's residence
    She insisted the relationship was 'tried, tested and, yes, special' and the two nations together contributed to security and prosperity of the world.
    'I firmly believe that the strength of our links and many shared interests will continue to ensure that when the United States and the United Kingdom stand together, our people and other people of goodwill around the world will be more secure and more prosperous,' the Queen said.
    Responding with his own toast, Mr Obama spoke of the 'rock-solid foundation' between the two countries.
    ©Mr Obama's motorcade travels along the Mall as it leaves Buckingham Palace to go to Downing Street this morning
    'From that day to this, you have been our closest partner in the struggle to protect our people from terrorism attacks and violent extremism from around the world despite very heavy sacrifices here,' the president said.
    'As we confront the challenges of the 21st century together we have can confidence in the partnership our two countries share, based on a rock-solid foundation built during Queen Elizabeth's lifetime of extraordinary service to her nation and to the world.'
    Mr Cameron and Mr Obama sat down for talks in the White Room of No 10 shortly before 10am this morning.
    ©'Okay. Enough about Ryan Giggs. What's the latest on Arnold Schwarzenegger?'
    As about a dozen photographers took pictures at the start of the meeting, the president joked: 'All right guys, one of those must have worked.'
    Foreign Secretary William Hague and U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton followed the two leaders into Number 10 half an hour later.
    Mrs Clinton waved briefly and smiled as she entered.
    ©Michelle Obama, the wife of the U.S. President, and Samantha Cameron, wife of the Prime Minister, pose with their husbands on the steps of 10 Downing Street yesterday
    Earlier, the smartly dressed driver of the president's vehicle brushed down its shiny exterior as she waited for him outside the Prime Minister's residence.
    Mr Obama and Mr Cameron were joined by Nick Clegg at about 10.15am.
    Shaking hands with the Deputy Prime Minister, the US leader said: 'Wonderful to see you.'
    Mr Clegg, gesturing to the sunlit windows, said: 'You've brought the sun today.'
    At about 10.40am, the President, Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister moved to the Cabinet Room for talks on security with other ministers, advisers and officials.
    Mr Cameron and Mr Obama sat opposite each other in the centre of the coffin-shaped Cabinet table, the Prime Minister flanked by Mr Clegg and Mr Hague, and the President by Mrs Clinton and the U.S. Ambassador to London, Louis Susman.
    Other British ministers attending included Chancellor George Osborne and Home Secretary Theresa May.
    Special relationship 'stronger than ever'

    Cameron: 'Special relationship will get stronger'

    BARACK OBAMA's LIMO Gets Stuck in Dublin

    Obama flips burgers for troops

    source: dailymail

    VIA President and PM dish up burgers at 'Obama-Q' honouring American and British veterans

  • UK: UK marks 800th anniversary of Magna Carta

    UK: UK marks 800th anniversary of Magna Carta
    Queen Elizabeth led celebrations on Monday to mark 800 years since the sealing of the Magna Carta, one of the world's most significant historical documents and credited with paving the way for modern freedoms and human rights.

    UK marks 800th anniversary of Magna Carta
    King John of England was forced to affix his Great Seal to Magna Carta at Runnymede
     800 years ago this week [Credit: British Library]

    On June 15, 1215, in fields by the banks of the River Thames at Runnymede to the west of London, England's King John agreed to the demands of his rebelling barons and accepted the Magna Carta, Latin for "Great Charter", which for the first time placed the monarch under the rule of law.

    In the centuries since, it has taken on huge global significance, becoming the basis for the U.S. Bill of Rights, the U.S. Declaration of Independence and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Three of its 63 clauses still remain on Britain's statute book.

    "What happened in these meadows eight centuries ago is as relevant today as it was then. And that relevance extends far beyond Britain," British Prime Minister David Cameron said.

    He said the document had changed the world, inspiring people from the founding fathers of the United States and Indian independence leader Mahatma Gandhi to Nelson Mandela in South Africa.

    "Its remaining copies may be faded, but its principles shine as brightly as ever," Cameron told the ceremony attended by the queen, other royals and global figures including U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.

    Magna Carta came into being during a period of great political upheaval in England with conflict between King John, his nobles and the English church.

    It was essentially a peace deal to address the problems of the day and was annulled by the pope shortly afterwards. But updated versions, which included two original clauses regarded as pivotal in establishing the rule of law, were re-released regularly by or on behalf of succeeding monarchs.

    The clauses read: "No free man shall be seized or imprisoned, or stripped of his rights or possessions, or outlawed or exiled, or deprived of his standing in any way, nor will we proceed with force against him, or send others to do so, except by the lawful judgment of his equals or by the law of the land.

    "To no one will we sell, to no one deny or delay right or justice."

    Originals Exist

    Four original copies of the document, written on a single sheet of parchment about the size of A3 paper, still exist.

    At Monday's ceremony, a new art installation was unveiled and the American Bar Association's Magna Carta Memorial, which was erected at the site in 1957, was re-dedicated.

    U.S. Attorney General Lynch said the charter was a bedrock to free societies globally, while Cameron also used the anniversary as a political opportunity to underpin his plan to overhaul human rights laws and reduce the influence of Europe.

    However, John Dyson, chairman of the Magna Carta Trust, said King John and the barons would have been bemused that the document would garner such interest hundreds of years later.

    "They would surely have been astonished that over time Magna Carta came to be regarded as one of the most important constitutional documents in our history," he said.

    "They would not have believed that barons' lists of demands would become a symbol of democracy, justice, human rights and perhaps above all, the rule of law for the whole world. But that is exactly what has happened."

    Author: Stefan Wermuth | Source: Reuters [June 15, 2015]

  • Danica Patrick-Race Queen Driving in Her Last Indy 500?

    Danica Patrick-Race Queen Driving in Her Last Indy 500?
    Danica PatrickContinues To Improve in NASCAR Likely Ending Her Run Indy Career
    Danica Patrick has fame, fortune, looks, brains but that is not enough.
    While there is still a week to go before the engines get started at the Indianapolis 500, talk has already begun about Patrick making a full-time jump into NASCAR next season.
    That would effectively mean that his is the last time Danica Patrick will take an open wheel car to the finish line of an Indianapolis 500.
    Danica Patrick finished last season in the Nationwide Series with four top-22 finishes in her final six races while racing sporadically during the year.
    Obviously the consistency of racing in consecutive weeks made a difference and we see that translating this year as well.
    Patrick started the first three races this year all inside the top-20, including a fourth place finish at Las Vegas.
    She did wreck at Bristol and finished 33rd, but the improvement is obviously noted.
    There may be no better time to capitalize on this opprortunity.
    While Danica Patrick has been remarkably more successful in the IndyCar series, she's making moves at the right time in NASCAR. (S)

    VIA Danica Patrick-Race Queen Driving in Her Last Indy 500?

  • The winner of Miss Earth Ukraine 2011 is Christine Oparin - She will represent Ukraine 11th Miss Earth pageant

    The winner of Miss Earth Ukraine 2011 is Christine Oparin - She will represent Ukraine 11th Miss Earth pageant
    The road to Miss Earth 2011
    NEW Queen of Ukraine - Earth 2011 is Christine Oparin
    ©
    ©
    ©
    ©
    ©
    May 22, 2011. The title Queen of the Ukraine-Earth was won by Christine Oparin, from Kharkov, at the National Opera of Ukraine. She will represent Ukraine 11th Miss Earth pageant inThailand this December.
    Photo credit : obozrevatel.com
    Source :http://www.grandslampageants.com/
    source: (Thank you and credits to
    NATT_TH:
    http://www.pinoyexchange.com/
    and all sources for the information and pictures)

    VIA The winner of Miss Earth Ukraine 2011 is Christine Oparin - She will represent Ukraine 11th Miss Earth pageant

  • God Bless America! Green Mile actor Doug Hutchison's 16-year-old bride is 'a good Christian girl,' insist her parents as new saucy photos emerge

    God Bless America! Green Mile actor Doug Hutchison's 16-year-old bride is 'a good Christian girl,' insist her parents as new saucy photos emerge
    By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
    ©Posing: Green Mile star Doug Hutchison's bride Courtney Stodden, who claims to be 16, with an American flag wrapped around her in a photo from her website
    Bride's father is four years YOUNGER than groom
    Her mother insists she is a good Christian girl.
    But these pictures of Green Mile star Doug Hutchison's 16-year-old bride, Courtney Alexis Stodden, would seem to suggest she does have a naughtier side.
    The aspiring model and singer is seen here striking a series of lascivious poses for the camera.
    ©Bright: The teen, who is an aspiring singer, pictured here in a shocking pink bikini
    In one she is pictured on a beach with just an American flag wrapped around her while in another she poses in a shocking pink bikini.
    Courtney married 51-year-old Hutchison last month in a Las Vegas ceremony.
    And while many parents may be horrified at the dramatic age gap, Courtney's mother and father have actually given it all their backing.
    RadarOnline today posted a copy of the marriage certificate, which details how the nuptials took place on May 19.
    The service was held at the Chapel Of The Flowers and was officiated by Reverend Douglas Gilbert, with Courtney's mother Krista acting as a witness.
    With Courtney looking older than her 16 years, many have questioned her age, although the webside claims the documents prove she will be turning 17 on August 29.
    ©Extreme age gap: Hutchison, 51, and Courtney were married in Las Vegas last month
    Courtney's father, Alex Stodden, who at 47 is four years younger that his son-in-law, and her mother Krista even gushed about the new addition to the family.
    'Every father can only pray to have such a man behind their daughter,' he told Radaronline. 'Doug is the nicest man I’ve ever met in my life.'
    He says that Courtney is an intelligent girl and he has no concerns about her decision.
    'Courtney is one of the most level headed girls out there and I’m not just saying that because she’s my daughter,' he said.
    Yesterday Courtney's mother Krista also told RadarOnline.com: 'We are totally supportive of this marriage. Doug is a wonderful man and we love him.'
    She defended her daughter's decision, insisting that she is a 'good Christian girl'.
    Mrs Stodden said: 'They are very much in love and we are so supportive of this.
    ©Preening: Courtney's mother insists her daughter is a 'good Christian girl' and has not had plastic surgery
    'Courtney was a virgin when she married Doug. She is a good Christian girl.'
    Looking well beyond 16, it appears that Courtney has possibly gone under the knife to obtain her more 'mature' looks, but her mother denies this.
    She said: 'She is a beautiful girl. She has real breasts, real lips, she's not plastic.'
    ©Controversial: Since the nuptials, the TV star and his teenage bride have been forced to defend their decision
    Mr and Mrs. Stodden are also about to pay the newlyweds a visit, by travelling to to Los Angeles, this week.
    Courtney and Doug, who have a whopping 35 year age gap, married in Las Vegas last month and Doug proudly posted a picture of himself and the former beauty queen on his website this week.
    He wrote: 'Doug Anthony Hutchison and Courtney Alexis Stodden became husband and wife on Friday May 20th, 2011, at 12 pm in The Little Chapel of Flowers in Las Vegas, Nevada.
    ©It's all good: Her father Alex Stodden, who at 47 is four years younger that his son-in-law, has gushed about the new addition to the family
    'Mr and Mrs Hutchison live together happily ensconced in their Hollywood Hills home with their lil' pups, Everette and Tuna.'
    Since the wedding, the TV star and his teenage bride have been forced to defend their decision.
    'We're aware that our vast age difference is extremely controversial,' the couple told E! Online.
    'But we're very much in love and want to get the message out there that true love can be ageless.'
    The legal age for marriage in Las Vegas is 18, however with parental consent it drops to 16.
    ©Wannabe: Courtney Stodden in a music video posted on YouTube called Don't Put It On Me
    Hutchison is best know for his role as prison guard Percy Wetmore in the film adaptation of Stephen King's The Green Mile, for which he received critical acclaim.
    He later went on to play supporting roles in films such as Shaft and Bait, I Am Sam, and The Salton Sea.
    Currently, he is producing Vampire Killers, described as 'a show around the hunt for a queen vampire and her 13 coven members by an elite group of vampire hunters'.
    Courtney is an aspiring country music singer, who, judging by her website, appears to be managed by her new husband, who is listed as the primary contact person for all her business affairs
    ©Hutchison is best know for his role as prison guard Percy Wetmore in the film The Green Mile
    On her site she describes herself as a 'recording artist, singer/songwriter, actress and model who currently resides in Ocean Shores, Washington, as well as Hollywood, California'.
    The teenager started her career early, signing with a modelling agency at the age of 12.
    She was 15 when she entered Donald Trump's Miss Universe Organisation, becoming Miss Ocean Shores, Washington, and going on to represent her city in the Miss Washington USA Pageant.

    source: dailymail

    VIA God Bless America! Green Mile actor Doug Hutchison's 16-year-old bride is 'a good Christian girl,' insist her parents as new saucy photos emerge

  • I WON! and other stuff...

    I WON! and other stuff...

    Sewing
    My friend Becky is starting this new site called Patchwork Posse, every month there are new sewing related projects and lots of fun stuff. So, today I won a membership! YAY! Go check it out, I am excited about it, I think she has come up with a great idea and I am excited that I get to be a part of it!


    Sewing
    In other news: I know some of you have probably already seen it, but I did a pattern review for Sew Mama Sew!


    Here's the link!

    Sewing

    Also, Dana from MADE won a package of things from me awhile back and she repurposed a towel I sent her into these adorable aprons she made for her kids! She is the queen of repurposing I tell you! So cute!

    I hope you all had a Happy New Year!

  • Born again (for the third time)... Lady Gaga hatches from another egg-like cocoon during the MuchMusic Video Awards

    Born again (for the third time)... Lady Gaga hatches from another egg-like cocoon during the MuchMusic Video Awards
    By CHRIS JOHNSON
    ©Suspend your belief: Lady Gaga emerges from a hanging cocoon during rehearsals for the MuchMusic Video Awards in Canada
    Could Lady Gaga be running out of ideas for her stage shows?
    The pop superstar emerged from a cocoon during her performance at the MuchMusic Video Awards in Toronto, Canada this weekend, a stunt she has pulled twice already.
    Gaga, 25, was at the event to perform some of her recent hits, including Edge Of Glory, and to pick up two awards.
    ©Just hanging around: The cocoon was suspended in the air
    She entered the stage via the egg-like cocoon, just as she did at the Grammy Awards in February this year - she also popped out of a chamber during a performance on Saturday Night Live late last month.
    ©Doing it for real: Gaga on stage during the actual awards show
    This time however the contraption was suspended above the ground, whereas the previous two crysalis-esque devices were laid down horizontally on the ground.
    For the duration of her appearance on the Canadian awards show, Gaga remained relatively covered up in comparison to her usual outrageous get up.
    ©Similar entrance: The superstar singer popped out of an egg-like contraption at the Grammy awards in February
    By Lady Gaga standards, her ensembles were positively demure.
    In fact the Queen of shocktastic fashion and barely-there outfits turned out to the ceremony with much more material per square inch than usual.
    Despite changing into an array of outfits, the 25-year-old singer kept relatively covered up - which was perhaps something to do with the slightly fuller figure she was seen to be sporting as she arrived.
    ©
    Paunch: Lady Gaga revealed a slightly fuller figure as she arrived the the MuchMusic Video Awards in Canada tonight in a tight LBD teamed with dominatrix-style boots
    ©Making an entrance: The singer opened the show with a performance on Edge of Glory, staying relatively covered up in a bejewelled catsuit
    The Edge of Glory star, who won two awards at the event, turned up at the ceremony in Toronto, Canada, in a form-fitting little black dress which showed a more curvy shape around her midsection.
    Last year Gaga's former tour manager, David Ciemny, claimed that the star would starve herself to fit into her revealing stage outfits.
    He alleged the singer would go on unhealthy food binges before barely eating in a bid to slim down - saying she once lost 20lbs between fittings.
    ©Got it all covered: The superstar singer remained relatively demure in comparison to her usual guises
    ©Covering up: We're used to seeing the singer in barely-there outfits and skimpy underwear
    Earlier this month, Gaga left very little to the imagination as she partied at the CFDA Fashion Awards in a see-through black body stocking in New York.
    But tonight was a relatively low-key affair for Gaga, who remained relatively covered in her series of outfits.
    She opened the show with a performance of Edge of Glory wearing a bejewelled black catsuit, before closing the event with a rendition of Born This Way.
    ©Colourful: She made an outfit change to accept international video of the year for Judas, keeping her flesh under wraps in a printed trouser and jacket combo teamed with her turquoise wig
    In a nod to her Grammys performance, Gaga hatched out of an egg, but was kept her flesh under wraps in black trousers and a dramatic ruffled feathered top half.
    She stripped her top off in the last minute of the song, but kept her midriff out of sight with her high-waisted, belted trousers.
    Earlier in the show she accepted an award, wearing another body covering outfit, a colourful trouser and jacket combo, complete with her turquoise wig.
    ©She eventually de-robed, but rather than a skimpy two-piece the singer was wearing black trousers and buttoned up jacket which revealed a hint of cleavage
    The singer was voted the most popular international artist in the fan category, while also taking home the best international video for Judas.
    Bieber was the other big winner of the night, joining his girlfriend and host of the event Selena Gomez on stage to accept his two gongs.
    The 17-year-old star was voted the favourite artist by ordinary Canadians for his video Somebody to Love, which also features Usher.
    He was honoured in the best international Canadian video category for the same video, although shared the award with hip hop star Drake.
    Lady Gaga - Born This Way Live Performance at: MMVAs 2011

    source :dailymail

    VIA Born again (for the third time)... Lady Gaga hatches from another egg-like cocoon during the MuchMusic Video Awards

  • Keeping it brief: The Saturdays play live in tiny shorts as Nicola Roberts gets over nerves to make solo onstage debut

    Keeping it brief: The Saturdays play live in tiny shorts as Nicola Roberts gets over nerves to make solo onstage debut
    By JODY THOMPSON
    ©Fierce: The Saturdays took to the stage in Newcastle last night all wearing tiny shorts - apart from a more bashful Rochelle Wiseman (far right)
    They've never been afraid of wearing skimpy outfits onstage - but The Saturdays outdid themselves on stage in Newcastle last night.
    The girl group were sporting the tiniest of shorts as they played a short set at a gig thrown by the city's radio station, Metro Radio Live.
    But it seemed that Rochelle Wiseman was not having one of her more confident days and wore pale denim skintight jeans instead.
    ©Work it: (L-R) Mollie King, Una Healy, Vanessa White, Frankie Sandford and Rochelle were playing a short set at Metro Radio Live at Newcastle Arena - a kind of urban indoor one-day pop festival
    However, one person who had most definitely overcome her nerves was Nicola Roberts, who made her live solo debut last night, just days after saying she was dreading going on without her Girls Aloud bandmates.
    Talking to MTV earlier this week, she'd revealed: 'I'm nervous and I'm dreading the night before. I know I'm going to be like losing half a stone in weight overnight, so I'm going to have to get myself into the zone.'
    She added: 'There does feel like there is a little bit of extra pressure, because it is just me and it feels a little bit like, is that enough, is it enough to just look at that?'
    ©Solo debut: Nicola Roberts got over her nerves to play her first ever live gig without Girls Aloud at the show
    ©Dainty doll: The star threw some shapes as she performed and totally won the screaming crowd over
    However, she seemed to quash her butterflies and impressed the crowd, singing debut solo single Beat Of My Drum in a tiny red and pink dress accessorised with a kooky headscarf and multicoloured strappy heels.
    Other acts playing the bash included dubstep queen Katy B, Chipmunk, Sophie Ellis Bextor, The Feeling, The Wanted, rapper Example, hot new band The Overtones and Amy Winehouse's goddaughter Dionne Bromfield.
    Meanwhile, Nicola has been explaining why she chose to take such a different direction musically with her new single.
    ©Strutting her stuff: Mollie was wearing titchy high-waisted orange shorts and a low cut see-through blue vest top that showed off her black bra
    Working with hot underground music producer Diplo, she explained: 'I tried to drum in to him that I wanted these quirky dollops of sound like M.I.A. (who he's worked with before) or Major Lazer (his Jamaican dancehall project).
    'Don’t try and make this record come back like a commercial, just-for-radio song with 500 dance synths all over it ‘cause it’s not where I’m trying to go.'
    Scouse beauty Nicola also says she feels like she's unleashed her singing voice properly for the first time too.
    ©On song: Frankie belts out one of The Saturday's singles wearing tight striped shorts and a blue top with a distressed denim top half, as Una sports ripped denim and a low cut purple top showing off her red bra
    She said: 'I was sick to death of singing the quiet, whispery parts. I was like, no, f*** this, I’m going to sing!'
    Talking to MTV, Nicola said it was good that it was so different to Girls Aloud: 'It was important my first single was different to anything else around.
    'I love that it’s a song everyone can sing and dance along to.
    ©Earning her stripes: Rochelle has teamed her jeans with a leather jacket and a midriff-exposing tiger print top
    ©Thighs the limit: Una strikes a pose at the Newcastle Arena
    Nicola Roberts will be releasing her debut album ‘Cinderella’s Eyes’ in October.
    Meanwhile, the Daily Mirror is reporting that Girls Aloud are heading back into the studio in January.
    But apparently, the girls are ditching their former producers, hitmakers Xenomania.
    A source said: 'At the moment the Girls are really excited about their new beginning, although they are scratching their heads over who will create signature hits for them.
    'They’re excited they’re going to be making a fresh start together on this next adventure of their lives.
    'In six months time it’ll be back to work as normal – they are itching to get back in the studio.'
    ©An audience with...Sophie Ellis Bextor was also on the bill at the bash
    The band are reportedly set to reform to celebrate their 10th anniversary next year at a special festival for the London 2012 Olympics at the O2 Arena.
    Nicola though is onstage again for a hometown gig at Liverpool's Radio City Live tonight, before playing T4 On The Beach on 10 July.
    Beat Of My Drum is then released on 18 July.
    Meanwhile, MTV Music show On Set With Nicola Roberts is on at 2pm tomorrow.
    And the next Metro Radio Live is on 7 July and features JLS and Olly Murs.


    source: dailymail

    VIA Keeping it brief: The Saturdays play live in tiny shorts as Nicola Roberts gets over nerves to make solo onstage debut

  • Milla Jovovich Wallpapers and Photos 2009

    Milla Jovovich Wallpapers and Photos 2009
    Milla Jovovich play ˈjoʊvəvɪtyoh-və-vich; Ukrainian: Мiліца Йовович [ˈjɔvɔvitɕ]; Serbian: Милица Јововић/Milica Jovović; born Milica Jovović; December 17, 1975is a supermodel, actress, musician, and fashion designer. Over her career, she has appeared in a number of science fiction and action themed films, for which music channel VH1 has referred to her as the "reigning queen of kick-butt".
    Jovovich began modeling at age 11, when photographer Gene Lemuel discovered her and convinced Herb Ritts to shoot her for the cover of Lei magazine Richard Avedon featured her in Revlon's "Most Unforgettable Women in the World" advertisements, and she continued her career with other campaigns for L'Oréal cosmetics, Banana Republic, Christian Dior, Donna Karan, and Versace. In 1988, she had her first professional acting role in the television film The Night Train to Kathmandu, and later that year, she appeared in her first feature film, Two Moon Junction. Following more small television appearances such as the "Fair Exchange" (1989) and a 1989 role as a French girl (she was 14 at the time) on a Married... with Children episode and film roles, she gained notoriety with the romance film Return to the Blue Lagoon (1991). She appeared in 1993's Dazed and Confused alongside Ben Affleck and Matthew McConaughey. Jovovich then acted alongside Bruce Willis in the science fiction film The Fifth Element (1997), and later played the title role in The Messenger: The Story of Joan of Arc (1999). In 2002, she starred in the video game adaptation Resident Evil, which spawned three sequels: Resident Evil: Apocalypse (2004), Resident Evil: Extinction (2007) and Resident Evil: Afterlife (2010)
    In addition to her modeling and acting career, Jovovich released a music album, The Divine Comedy in 1994. She continues to release demos for other songs on her official website and contributes to film soundtracks; Jovovich has yet to release another album. In 2003, she and model Carmen Hawk created the clothing line Jovovich-Hawk, which ceased operations in early 2008.In its third season prior to its demise, the pieces could be found at Fred Segal in Los Angeles, Harvey Nichols, and over 50 stores around the world. Jovovich also has her own production company, Creature Entertainment
    1 Early life and family
    2 Modeling career
    3 Acting career
    3.1 Early work (1985–1993)
    3.2 Breakthrough (1997–2001)
    3.3 International success (2002–2006)
    3.4 Recent and future roles (2007–present)
    4 Awards and nominations
    5 Music career
    6 Fashion design
    7 Media personality
    8 Personal life
    9 Discography
    10 Filmography
    11 References
    12 External links
    Milla was born in Kiev, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union, the daughter of Bogdan Bogdanović Jovović (Богдан Богдановић Јововић), a Serbian pediatrician, and Galina Mikhaylovna Loginova (Галина Михайловна Логинова), a Russian stage actress.
    Milla's paternal family's estate was in Zlopek near Peć in the northwestern part of Metohija Valley, Serbia. Her paternal great-grandfather, Bogić Camić Jovović, was a flag-bearer of the Vasojevići clan and an officer in the guard of King Nicholas I of Montenegro; his wife's name was Milica, after whom Milla was named. Her paternal grandfather, Bogdan Jovović, was a commander in the Pristina military area, and later investigated finances in the military areas of Skopje and Sarajevo, where he uncovered massive gold embezzlement. He was punished for refusing to convict a friend of the crime. Later, the government briefly imprisoned him in Goli otok for refusing to testify. When he feared that he could be arrested again, he escaped to Albania and later moved to Kiev. A different version of the story claims that he was the one who took the gold. Milla's father, Bogich, later joined Bogdan in Kiev, where he and his sister graduated in medicineIn 2000, her grandfather, Bogdan Jovović, died in KievHer mother was born in Tuapse (now in Russia) but moved in her childhood to Dnipropetrovsk (now in Ukraine
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich
    ©Milla Jovovich

    VIA Milla Jovovich Wallpapers and Photos 2009

  • Zig Zag Quilt Along

    Zig Zag Quilt Along
    Sewing
    I'm starting another quilt along, this time I am going for a queen sized quilt for my bed.
    It is in the same flickr group from The Old Red Barn Co.'s first quilt along.

    Sewing
    This time it is a zig zag quilt and I am using all vintage fabrics from my stash. I am behind a week, but hopefully I can catch up, I think I get it done faster if I keep up!
  • Green Mile actor Doug Anthony Hutchison, 51, marries aspiring country music singer, 16, in Las Vegas

    Green Mile actor Doug Anthony Hutchison, 51, marries aspiring country music singer, 16, in Las Vegas
    By DAILY MAIL REPORTER
    ©Extreme age gap: Green Mile star Doug Anthony Hutchison, 51, and 16-year-old Courtney Alexis Stodden were married in Las Vegas last month
    They say age is only a number when it comes to love - just ask Green Mile star Doug Anthony Hutchison and his new bride.
    The 51-year-old actor has married aspiring country singer Courtney Alexis Stodden, who is 16.
    The pair married in Las Vegas last month and Hutchison proudly posted a picture of himself and the former beauty queen on his website this week.
    ©Wannabe: Courtney Stodden in a music video posted on YouTube called Don't Put It On Me
    He wrote: 'Doug Anthony Hutchison and Courtney Alexis Stodden became husband and wife on Friday May 20th, 2011, at 12 pm in The Little Chapel of Flowers in Las Vegas, Nevada.
    'Mr and Mrs Hutchison live together happily ensconced in their Hollywood Hills home with their lil' pups, Everette and Tuna.'
    Since the wedding the TV star and his teenage bride have been forced to defend their decision.
    'We're aware that our vast age difference is extremely controversial,' the couple told E! Online.
    'But we're very much in love and want to get the message out there that true love can be ageless.'
    The legal age for marriage in Las Vegas is 18, however with parental consent it drops to 16.
    ©Famous role: Hutchison is best known for playing prison guard Percy Wetmore in the film adaptation of Stephen King's The Green Mile, for which he received critical acclaim
    Courtney's mother Krista Stodden told RadarOnline.com: 'We are totally supportive of this marriage. Doug is a wonderful man and we love him.'
    She defended her daughter's decision, insisting that she is a 'good Christian girl'.
    Mrs Stodden said: 'They are very much in love and we are so supportive of this.
    'Courtney was a virgin when she married Doug. She is a good Christian girl.'
    Looking well beyond 16, it appears that Courtney has possibly gone under the knife to obtain her more 'mature' looks, but her mother denies this.
    She said: 'She is a beautiful girl. She has real breasts, real lips, she's not plastic.'
    source: dailymail

    VIA Green Mile actor Doug Anthony Hutchison, 51, marries aspiring country music singer, 16, in Las Vegas

  • More Stuff: Is Greece about to lose the Parthenon Sculptures forever?

    More Stuff: Is Greece about to lose the Parthenon Sculptures forever?
    The following is an open letter circulated yesterday (May 14) by Alexis Mantheakis, Chairman of the International Parthenon Sculptures Action Committee, on the recent developments in the Parthenon Sculptures issue:

    Is Greece about to lose the Parthenon Sculptures forever?
    Dear All,

    The recent snub by the British government to UNESCO's offer to mediate in the issue of the Parthenon Sculptures dispute and the arrogant wording directed at the Greek government's often repeated offer to negotiate the matter by discussion confirmed our position that Britain never had the intention to enter into good faith discussions. As we had said in recent fora,  the only road we saw to possible success was one of legal action, with a direct and dynamic confrontation with Whitehall.

    The recent response by Britain dissolved any illusions we had regarding the powers in the UK to be brought to do the right thing,  and to right a historical wrong.  We too had hoped that Britain would succumb to worldwide public opinion to correct an outrage,  the stripping and vandalising of the Parthenon of 60% of its famous millenia-old  Sculptures ,  a crime committed when Greeks were under occupation and unable to defend their archaeological heritage and national symbols of identity.

    The latest declaration by the new minister of culture in the UK continues with the hard line of his predeccesors, namely that "The marbles were legally acquired according to the laws of the time. " So Mr Minister were 3 million African slaves, captured,  transported and sold,  "according to the laws of the time." Opium too was purchased and sold, in tons "according to the laws of the time". Those who did not agree to buy your opium had two wars declared on them,  and so China paid with the loss of Hong Kong and a treaty to buy your Indian grown opium.  This, Mr Minister, is NOT that time.  We are disputing your CURRENT possession of symbols of our heritage, removed from Athens and held by you in a totally government financed and controlled museum institution (all the board is appointed directly, or indirectly by the UK government or by the Queen).

    This,  though,  is not the issue.

    One more British government acting like  an infant  petulantly hugging another child's toy,  saying "It is mine, mine!"  is understandable,  because there is no home-made item that can compare in beauty,  artisanry,  historic or other value to those created  by a superior ancient civilisation.  We may understand the feeling,  and commiserate,  but that does not justify the possession of the looted Greek scultures taken from the Parthenon.  There is no justification for it.  We sympathise with the situation the British Museum is in,  but our sympathy doesn't extend to giving up iconic and defitive items of our heritage,  nor did our illustrious and talented predecessors in Ancient Athens build the Parthenon to have its facade torn off and damaged  by a British ambassador to decorate his Scottish residence. The Parthenon was built by Pericles and the Greek city states to commemorate the victory of Greek civilisation against the very type of barbarity  and lack of respect that Elgin indulged in 2300 years later.

    The British position is well known and is in keeping with how official Britain has acted in the last few centuries.  To win in a contest the basic rule MUST be to understand your opponent and create your game strategy around this knowledge.

    Anyone who has studied British history and politics will know that Britain NEVER,  but NEVER,  gives anything back unless forced to do so.  India, Cyprus,  as well as dozens of colonies of the Empire,  and other possessions acquired without the consent of the people, often with great bloodshed caused by British troops were only given back by Britain after a bitterly contested conflict,  on the field of battle,  in courts,  or with a series of extended non-violent political actions by those who had lost their heritage,  freedoms,  or historical archaeological treasures.  Britain today in its museums and in the Tower of London still holds numerous purloined and pillaged items as well as those taken by reason of  military superiority from a vanquished foe defending himself on his own soil.  The Kohinoor Diamond in the so called Crown Jewels  taken from a defeated 15 year old prince in India, is but one example. Manifest Destiny demanded it.  We oppose this way of thinking.

    This lengthy introduction,  and I will apologise,  was to emphasise my conviction that dialogue for the return of the Parthenon Marbles, after so many valiant and polite efforts by Greece,  and its overseas friends in all walks of life,  is not a viable option,  and only  incurable romantics or people without an understanding of the official British character and its limitations can insist that this dead end is the road to the Restitution in Athens.

    The problem is not the obduracy and intransigence of British officialdom.  It is a given, and we have to act  with that in mind.  It is with the very knowledge of the historic failure of Greek diplomacy,  both cultural and political,  and that of our own self-financed voluntary Parthenon organisations, to bring about the return, that it was encouraging when the Greek government,  that for 40 years has not asked Britain officially for the Sculptures return,  not long ago decided to involve an experienced and prestigious British legal firm Doughty Street Chambers led by George Robertson QC,  to represent our interests and to write a report regarding  what options were open for Greece to act.

    Overall public awareness of the issue and additional sympathy for the Greek case was given very welcome boosts,  human nature being what it is,  by declarations of public support by celebrities such as George Clooney,  Matt Damon and others,  while a visit to Greece by Mrs Clooney with her senior colleagues at the UK law office created a media frenzy and a heightening of public interest in the Parthenon issue.  The Doughty Chambers law group produced a 140 page confidential report for the Greek government describing,  as leaked to the press,  5 options.  The one considered to have the highest chance of success was,  and this is no surprise to us,  for Greece to go immediately to the  European Court of Human Rights where,  according to the report,  there was  the greatest chance of a Greek legal victory.  The lawyers were specific: it is  now or never,  if the opportunity is  not to be lost with issues such as statutes of limitations in the near future killing Greek chances of recovery of the items through international court decisions.

    In Greece,  as we all know there is a new government,  and the report was delivered to them.  With the understanding of the British penchant for intransigence,  fortified by the recent snub to UNESCO, and the history of failed attempts,  the new minister had a detailed road map in his hands,  to move forward,  with of course the support of millions around the world and at home.  Expecting his decision to do this,  using the British law firm and their international expertise and experience in cross border cultural issues we were stunned to hear the announcement of Under Minister Mr Nickos Xidakis,  a former journalist,  who announced,  in more words than these,  that " We will not go against Britain in court... This is a matter to be settled politically and diplomatically...this issue will be settled, bit by bit over, time..."

    Looking at what the minister said let us examine the  viability of his declared course of action over that which the British lawyers and we ourselves at IPSACI believe,  and we all want the same thing ,  the return of the Parthenon Sculptures.

    A) Mr Xidakis rejects the expert opinion of the British legal experts.  Claiming we may lose in court.  But for 200 years we have lost! We can only win,  or if we lose here, we can initiate a new legal action in another court.

    B) Mr Xidakis says the issue can be won diplomatically.  The question is,  after 200 years of failed  diplomatic initiatives, is the government of Mr Xidakis in such a powerful international position to impose a solution using diplomacy? Does he know of Greek diplomats who can force Mr Cameron to sign a new law allowing/directing the Return of the Parthenon Sculptures?

    C) Mr Xidakis told the press that the issue should be dealt with "politically" .  This is indeed one way countries settle disputes.  The assumption by lay persons like myself,  on hearing the Minister,  is that Greece at this moment has the political clout to bring the British Museum to its knees and to force Mr Cameron to sign the document of repatriation of the Sculptures to Athens. With all our goodwill towards Mr Xidakis, where does he draw this feeling of current Greek political power and superiority over Britain from?

    D) Finally the minister says that this issue is being slowly resolved, "little by little".

    But it has already been 200 years from the stripping of the friezes and metopes and Britain has not moved one centimetre in the direction Greece demands!

    If the minister does not tell us why he feels his/our  government has the diplomatic and political power to solve the issue,  I very much fear that his position looks like a hot potato shifting of the issue to a future government because of  reluctance to take the bull by the horns,  as recommended by the UK lawyers, and get into court with his British counterpart.(Apologies for the mixed metaphors!)

    I have a great fear that we are about to lose the Parthenon Sculptures for ever, and that the work of all our organisations, ministries,  diplomatic missions,  our volunteer supporters, and decades of dedicated work by people such as yourselves around the world, and in Greek and international  organisations are about to be lost down the drain.

    I therefore beg those who believe that we must recommend to Minister Xidakis and his staff to listen to the recommendations of people and experts who know the issues well,  and understand the mindset of those walking the halls of Russell Square and Westmister,  to express their concern to the authorities in Greece.

    Thank you for your patience in reading this long analysis of where I believe  we are today,  in view of the recent, and disturbing developments.

    Best to all,
    Alexis Mantheakis
    Chairman of the International Parthenon Sculptures Action Committee Inc.
    Athens office.
    www.ipsaci.com
    +(30)22990 47566

  • Heritage: Fallen Egyptian archaeologist wants international Grand Museum

    Heritage: Fallen Egyptian archaeologist wants international Grand Museum
    For more than a decade, he was the self-styled Indiana Jones of Egypt, presiding over its antiquities and striding through temples and tombs as the star of TV documentaries that made him an international celebrity.

    Fallen Egyptian archaeologist wants international Grand Museum
    In this June 18, 2015 photo, Zahi Hawass, Egypt's former head of antiquities, speaks during 
    an interview with The Associated Press in his office in Cairo. For more than a decade, 
    he was the self-styled Indiana Jones of Egypt, presiding over its antiquities and striding
     through temples and tombs as the star of TV documentaries that made him an international
     celebrity. But four years after the 2011 uprising that toppled President Hosni Mubarak
     and nearly ended his own career, Hawass can be found in a cramped office, 
    lamenting the state of the antiquities bureaucracy he once ruled like a pharaoh 
    and dreaming of a new museum whose fate lies in limbo 
    [Credit: AP/Hassan Ammar]

    But four years after the uprising that toppled President Hosni Mubarak and nearly ended his own career, Zahi Hawass can be found in a cramped Cairo office, lamenting the state of the antiquities bureaucracy he once ruled like a pharaoh and dreaming of a new museum whose fate lies in limbo.

    His trademark wide-brimmed hat and safari vest may be hung up for now, but he is brimming with ideas on how to revive Egypt's antiquities and bring back tourists after years of unrest.

    A long-planned new facility out by the pyramids, called the Grand Egyptian Museum, was intended to open this year, but the government says it is short the one billion dollars needed to complete the project.

    "Government routine cannot work for museums," Hawass said in an interview in his office, asserting that state bureaucracy is one of the main reasons the current Egyptian Museum has fallen into disrepair. For the new museum, "the directorship, the curatorship, it can be from America, from Germany, from England, from any place in the world. You need this museum to be international."

    He also says private, international sponsorship is needed.

    "If you pay $10,000, I put your name, written on the wall of the museum. If you pay $100,000, I put your name on the facade of the museum. If you build a whole gallery, I will name (the gallery after you)," he said, adding that the government should announce that Egyptian monuments belong to the entire world, not just Egyptians.

    As to the challenge of moving artifacts from the current museum in downtown Cairo over bumpy roads to the site of the new facility on the city's outskirts, Hawass says "any TV channel" would pick up the tab in return for exclusive rights to document the artifacts' restoration and transport. "They will run in competition to do this," he said.

    Hawass knows TV. He was once a staple on the Discovery Channel and had his own reality show on the History Channel called "Chasing Mummies," the promo for which introduced him by saying "100,000 years of history belong to one man... Only he holds the key to the world's greatest ruins."

    The productions earned him droves of fans abroad but led to accusations of grandstanding in Egypt, where he was seen by many as a self-promoter who mistreated subordinates and abused his position for personal gain. He lost his job as head of antiquities after the 2011 uprising and faced corruption charges, of which he was later cleared.

    But his swashbuckling antics gave a boost to Egyptian archaeology, with fundraising efforts and international tours of King Tut artifacts generating tens of millions of dollars.

    His name is still associated with many of Egypt's most famous digs, including grand discoveries such as the Valley of the Golden Mummies in Bahariya Oasis in 1999 and the mummy of Queen Hatshepsut almost a decade later. He has long campaigned to bring home ancient artifacts spirited out of Egypt during colonial times, and once said he had managed to recover 5,000 pieces.

    Zahi was an outspoken supporter of his longtime patron Mubarak, and has praised President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, who led the military overthrow of an Islamist president in 2013 and was elected last year. But that support has not translated into an official role other than promotional work for tourism in Egypt.

    When asked about the state of antiquities today, Hawass says things have improved over the last year, carefully avoiding direct criticism of anyone in particular. But he points out that there is still theft, mismanagement and corruption - noting two incidents in recent months in which artifacts were found to have been replaced with replicas.

    "This did not happen before," he said, adding that in order to prevent such abuses, "we need to restore the people before we restore antiquities," by boosting employees' salaries and providing them with health insurance.

    Hawass insisted during the interview that he is focused on writing and has no desire to return to his previous position as head of the country's antiquities. "People come here every day and ask me to come back... I think I did my duty, and it's time for me now to publish all that I discovered."

    But at the glitzy launch of his latest book earlier this month at a ceremony at a five-star hotel attended by hundreds of Cairo's elite, he was less guarded about possible ambitions to return.

    "Maybe," he said, as a torrent of fans pressed to take photos next to him.

    Author: Brian Rohan | Source: The Associated Press [June 30, 2015]

  • Miss Schweiz 2011 or Miss Switzerland 2011 pageant will be held on September 26, 2011 - Meet the finalists for Miss Schweiz 2011 pageant

    Miss Schweiz 2011 or Miss Switzerland 2011 pageant will be held on September 26, 2011 - Meet the finalists for Miss Schweiz 2011 pageant
    ©
    Meet the finalists for Miss Schweiz 2011 pageant
    Miss Schweiz 2011 or Miss Switzerland 2011 pageant will be held on September 26. Miss Switzerland 2010, Kerstin Cook (photo above) will crown their successors at the end of the pageant.
    New Beauty Queen will represent Switzerland in Miss Universe 2012
    Check out below the Official Finalists of Miss Switzerland 2011 pageant.
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Ashley Balmer (19) - Zürich
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Kristina Bazan (17) - Waadt
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Alina Buchschacher (19) - Bern
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Simone Casanova (24) - Basel
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Lorenza Castella (18) - Ticino
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Giada Cattaneo (22) - Fribourg
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Priska Erni (21) - Luzern
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Julia Flückinger (23) - Schaffhausen
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Jessica Haag (20) - Bern
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Cleo Heuss (18) - Zurich
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Michelle Koch (19) - Aargau
    Miss Schweiz 2011 Finalists
    Julia Marinkovic (19) - Genève

    courtesy photo of zuerich.usgang.ch

    source: (Thank you and credits to
    http://contestevent.blogspot.com
    and all sources for the information and pictures)

    VIA Miss Schweiz 2011 or Miss Switzerland 2011 pageant will be held on September 26, 2011 - Meet the finalists for Miss Schweiz 2011 pageant

  • The Judas Syndrome cover Lady Gaga's "Judas"

    The Judas Syndrome cover Lady Gaga's "Judas"
    ©New York City thrashers The Judas Syndrome decided to risk their reputation for being a hard hitting band, and to cover the song "Judas" by Pop Queen Lady Gaga. While Heavy Music is all about being open minded to new things, we don't think a band that is looking to get signed should be risking their reputation by covering a Pop song, specially when a handful of other artists have already covered Lady Gaga. Why not be original and cover a Heavy Music classic and add a unique flavor to it? Or taking a wise risk like Resolution 15 did when they covered U2's "Sunday Bloody Sunday" and proved that they are phenomenal musicians. Same goes for Slam One Down, who blew everyone's mind at the Horns Up Rocks 1 year anniversary party with their flawless covers of Pantera's "Becoming", ACDC's "Dirty Deeds" and Machine Head's "Davidian".
    Some of you may think that we are being too harsh, but the music industry today is not looking for bands that are taking risks without measuring the consequences. Nowadays a record label will only invest in a band that is smart about how they handle their business on and off stage. Our advice to any up and coming band is to think carefully about what you want to represent and what your ultimate goal is. Don't put years of hard work down, by making the wrong moves.
    Here is The Judas Syndrome covering the song "Judas" by Lady Gaga:
    the judas syndrome - judasbyThe Judas Syndrome
    Now here is also The Judas Syndrome with their original song titled "Death of the Soul":

    Related links:
    The Judas Syndrome on MySpace
    Official site of the Judas Syndrome
    The Judas Syndrome

    VIA The Judas Syndrome cover Lady Gaga's "Judas"

  • Dressed down Doll: Nicole Scherzinger makes the most of comfy clothing but still makes to flash some flesh

    Dressed down Doll: Nicole Scherzinger makes the most of comfy clothing but still makes to flash some flesh
    By SARAH FITZMAURICE
    ©New job: The 32-year-old singer who is hosting X Factor USA alongside Steve Jones wrapped up in a grey and black scarf
    She will be glamming up every week as the host of X Factor USA so who can blame Nicole Scherzinger for making the most of the opportunity to dress down.
    The singer opted for a comfy travelling outfit yesterday as she jetted out of LAX in a pair of grey lame baggy trousers and a black top.
    ©Comfy clothes: Nicole Scherzing jetted out of LAX in a pair grey of hareem trousers and a baggy black top but flashed some flesh with the cut out back
    But Nicole still managed to keep things racy with her baggy top from the front cut out to reveal a lot of flesh at the back.
    The Poison singer also liberated her feet from high heels and strutted in a pair of flat strappy sandals and wrapped a black and grey scarf around her neck.
    The former Pussycat had performed on Ellen DeGeneres’ show which aired yesterday and was seen having a dance off with Oscar-winner Tom hanks,
    ©Luggage free? The Poison singer strolled through the airport in her sunglasses
    Nicole had performed her latest single Right There in a low cut tangerine dress.
    Tom, who attended the Queen’s state dinner in London last night was seen taking to the stage to dance with Nicole on the show which had been recorded prior to be aired yesterday.
    As well as performing her latest hit Nicole also discussed her new role as host of the U.S. X Factor.
    'It's good,' she said. 'We just started the audition process. Simon Cowell gets kind of out there. It's fun and spontaneous.'
    The 32-year-old singer is co-hosting the show alongside British TV presenter Steve Jones.
    ©New dance troupe? Nicole appeared on the Ellen DeGeneres show which aired yesterday with 50 cent and Tom Hanks challenged her to a dance off
    ©Get down low: Tom tried to mimic Nicole's moves but couldn't get down as low as she could
    Last week the singer performed on rival show American Idol in a barely-there white bra-style dress.
    Right There is the latest single from the former Pussycat Doll's solo album Killer Love.
    [HD] Nicole Scherzinger ft. 50 Cent - Right There (The Ellen DeGeneres Show - 24th May 2011)

    source: dailymail

    VIA Dressed down Doll: Nicole Scherzinger makes the most of comfy clothing but still makes to flash some flesh