britthappens

Recipe for a Perfect Mother's Day: Flowers and Dinner Show a Lot of Love

2010-04-26T13:18:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for the perfect Mother's Day gift, don't look much farther than the old favorites of a beautiful bouquet of flowers and a lovely meal for that special women in your life you call Mom.

Every mother just loves the recognition that Mother's Day brings and there is no better way to say thank you. Flowers are the classic gesture. Luckily it is very easy to do with websites like 1800Flowers where you can choose from hundreds of arrangements and personalized gifts. Choose one with a selection of Mom's favorite blossoms or colors or with a theme close to Mom's heart.

Then top off your Mothers Day gift with a lovingly prepared meal. Nothing says thank you like something you have taken the time to make yourself. After all, she does it every day!

My Spooky Valentine - Twilight Valentine Flowers from 1800Flowers

2010-02-18T02:12:00.000-08:00

It couldn’t get any better: celebrating Valentine’s Day with New Moon, the continuation of the Twilight saga. Bella, Edward, Jacob – oh the teenage angst and sexual tension is just the ticket for a deliciously romantic Valentine’s Day. And 1800Flowers has put together two floral packages with just this in mind.

There are two Twilight Valentines Day Flowers packages offered. The basic offers half a dozen red, long stem roses along with a poster and greeting card featuring the story’s tormented protagonists. The premium package has twice as many flowers, two collectible New Moon chocolate bars and a pre-order New Moon DVD.

1800flowers is the first name in on-line flower sales and was even just recognized by MSNBC for clarity in pricing over other companies in same industry. Plus, there is a $20 off savings when you sign up for a Blockbuster trial. I may just go ahead and splurge on myself.

Twilight and Valentine's Day- The Perfect Combination from 1800Flowers

2010-02-10T12:27:00.000-08:00

It is that time of year again - Valentine's Day. I am still hoping for a knock-out gift from my sweetheart. I keep dropping hints about the Twilight flowers DVD offer from 1800flowers .

There are two different variants. The basic package has 12 long stem roses and a Twilight greeting card and poster whereas the premium has 24 long stem roses and the New Moon DVD on pre-order in addition.

Not only is this the perfect gift for any Twilight lover, it is also a great way to introduce your lover to the gripping saga continued in New Moon. Even better, 1800Flowers was just recognized for its clear and simple pricing structure by MSNBC. What is not to love?

Carl Sgro and Online Reputation Management

2009-11-18T15:01:00.000-08:00

With over two decades of experience in developing and growing on-line businesses, Carl Sgro has recently turned his attention to search engine marketing in the areas of retail, healthcare, real estate and other similar industries.

He has been responsible for turning start-ups into national and international market contenders in short periods of time. Just recently Carl Sgro has celebrated such successes as taking Name Engine, Inc., a fledgling start-up through a multi-millionaire acquisition by VeriSign, Inc. in only 18 months. He is a specialist in ROI-effective programs for PPC advertising.

When Carl Sgro is not using his unique expertise in internet marketing solutions, he spends his leisure time in the great outdoors and making music. A tournament-class bass fishermen, Sgro founded the 'Take a Kid Fishing' program in his local community. He also enjoys playing and composing lyrical pieces on the harmonica.

Christmas Gift Ideas - Gift Baskets from 1800 Flowers

2009-11-14T07:20:00.000-08:00

Christmas time is quickly approaching...where did 2009 go anyway? If you are anything like me, your stress levels sky rocket at the very thought of going into a busy mall or shopping center to look for gifts. Screaming kids, lines around the building, hour-long waits at the restaurants - no thank you!

This year I am doing all my shopping online and I have decided gift baskets are the solution to all my gift giving dilemmas. There are gift baskets available to suit everyone on Santa's list. And the best thing about them is that you order in the comfort of your own home and can have it delivered where it is most convenient for you. 1800flowers gift baskets are gifts I just discovered recently. Surprisingly more than just flowers, there is something for every gourmet, sweet tooth and new baby you are shopping for.

Finding Deals on Flowers - 1800Flowers Coupon

2009-11-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

The current economic climate has given us all a reason to save money and find bargains whenever we can. Flowers are one thing many of us just wouldn't consider giving if we are tight on cash - unless of course we can find a great deal or an online coupon. When I have the spare time, I scour the internet looking for online vouchers and coupon codes.

For a limited time only, internet customers can use 1800Flowers coupon which entitles them to 10% off their purchase. That is a little more than most states' sales tax, and, at around 40 bucks a arrangement, can make quite a difference in the final price. So why not brighten someone's day with a gorgeous bouquet? If you are looking for a recipient, I would be happy to volunteer.

Westford Asset Management in Montreux, Switzerland

2009-10-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

The first time I have ever heard of the tiny of town of Montreux, Switzerland was as I was doing some research on Westford Asset Management . To my surprise, I found out from the pictures I found on the internet that this was the quintessential Swiss town, perched somewhere up in the mountains, with a fairytale castle overlooking a gorgeous body of water. Why wouldn't Westford Asset Management choose to be based there?

Located on the Swiss Riviera, Montreux is the epitome of picturesque. The Castle of Chillion of Lord Byron fame, the Gruyere region famous for its delicious cheese, the spectacular views of Rochers-de-Naye mountains and the flavorful wines from vineyards of Lavaux are enough to lure anyone, let alone Westford Asset Management , to such a piece of paradise!

Sakwinder Narwal Gone Fishing

2009-10-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

Sakwinder Narwal loves to fish. No, this guy really does love to fish. He is more than just the average guy that will go to the nearest bait and tackle shop to buy his permit just to go out and down beers with his buddies around the lake. Sak actually travels around indulging his hobby. With dozens of rods, reels and lures, he is a true enthusiast for the sport and for the beautiful creatures as well as their amazing natural habitats. He says it is the connection to nature that keeps him coming back for more.

Sakwinder Narwal has chased his passion across North America looking for every opportunity to pursue sports fishing. Only catching each animal simply to immediately release it, Sakwinder Narwal is the epitome of gentleman sports angler.

RENEW International - Renewing the Catholic Faith

2009-10-29T06:32:00.000-07:00

For over three decades, RENEW International has been fostering the renewal of the Catholic spiritual traditions in over 150 archdioceses in America. The organization provides each diocese with programs and informational materials designed to help them reach their annual goals.

In October 2002, RENEW International was presented with a Decree of Recognition by Archbishop John J. Meyers, J.C.D., D.D., recognizing it as a 'private association of the faithful' under Canon Law of the Roman Catholic Church. The decree also acknowledges RENEW International as having been reviewed and found in proper order. The organization has an impact on nearly 25 million lives in this country and 23 more around the world.

RENEW International is committed to sound stewardship of the resources it has been granted and to excellence using 55 ethical criteria and principles of accountability. It is currently working with the National Leadership Roundtable on Church Management to meet it standards of excellence.

K-Designers : Reliable Partners in Home Remodeling

2009-10-29T05:11:00.000-07:00

K-Designers was founded nearly three decades ago by Larry and Lee Judson with only four employees. The company has since grown to become one of America's largest remodelling contractors with over 900 employees and associates.

Co-founder and President Larry Judson bases K-Designers past and future success on its commitment to its customers and associates. This commitment means choosing materials with the best value for money (and not simply the most expensive); carefully selecting and and developing its employees; and continually challenging the entire organization to be the most innovative, creative, and efficient remodeller in the US today.

Another indicator of the calibre of K-Designers as a business is its community involvement. Countless thank you letters from organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, the American Cancer Society, and the American Heart Foundation are testaments to the ethics and professionalism of the company.

Looking for a puppy in Chicago? Happiness is Pets is Your Answer

2009-10-29T05:09:00.000-07:00

Finding the right furry companion for your family can be a difficult matter. With all the scares of puppy mills and shady pet shops, one never knows if the puppy brought home is truly healthy and happy. Happiness is pets has been operating in greater Chicago for more than a decade and specializes in bringing healthy puppies from regional breeders to families.

Happiness is pets has six convenient Chicagoland locations making it easy and convenient to find the puppy of your dreams. With branches in Downers Grove, Arlington Heights, Naperville, Oak Lawn and Lombard, there is sure to be a store near you.

It is easy to see from the many customer testimonials why Happiness is pets does more than half of its business with repeat customers.With accommodating staff whose priority is to find the right puppy-owner combination and a one-year health warranty against congenital defects, satisfaction is practically guaranteed.

Amos Tamam - Making Life Easier

2009-10-29T04:53:00.000-07:00

I recently saw a video clip on You Tube of a comedian who was appearing on a late night talk show. The guy's basic message was: despite having so much technology capable of improving the quality of our lives and the world in general, everyone still complains. Do you even remember the days when you had to go inside the bank and write yourself a check to even get cash? Do you remember when you could only pay cash in a cab? Or when the driver (or a store clerk for that matter) took a carbon imprint of your credit card? A man called Amos Tamam has changed all that for the better now.

Amos Tamam came from Israel and worked servicing taxis in NYC. He developed the technology and is now the head of the division at Verifone which makes it possible to pay with credit card in New York and Philadelphia taxis.

It is the sheer ingenuity of people like Amos Tamam who are changing the way we live our lives for the better. We should all be thankful for this technology.

Happy Anniversary to Us

2009-08-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

Yeah, so I had to drop a few hints. Our anniversary is engraved in our wedding rings for Pete's sake. I shouldn't have to remind my husband that it is his cue to buy me flowers, but I do nonetheless. Flowers are simply par for the course on your wedding anniversary.

Every year for the last four, my husband has given me a long stem rose for every year of marriage. This year, I also got one yellow rose to represent the baby daughter born to us two months ago. My DH may not be 1800 Flowers best customer, but this special added touch really moved me. Thanks honey.

Harley Swiftdeer Reagan - Profile

2009-06-24T14:14:00.000-07:00

I love the internet because I come across so many interesting people and stories I would probably otherwise never have encountered. That rings true for a man I learned about while surfing the other night, Harley Swiftdeer Reagan - teacher, healer and martial artist. What fascinates me about this man is his dedication to personal mastery through martial arts, healing and his studies with teachers from different tribes across the Americas.

In his work, Harley Swiftdeer Reagan teaches those seeking transformation how to become aware, live in sobriety, and to embrace the 'art and act of living fully'. Having founded the Deer Tribe Metis Medicine Society, Harley Swiftdeer Reagan passes down the wisdom and knowledge of his studies with medicine people. With his teachings in spirituality, healing and martial arts SwiftDeer has moved and touched people from all over the world. It is this interdisciplinary simultaneous approach to spirituality and physical mastery which fascinates me and inspires me to continue along the same path.

Frank Hanna III - The Spirit of Giving Back

2009-06-24T13:50:00.000-07:00

While doing some reading the other day, I came across the profile of an Atlanta-based businessman, Frank Hanna III, who really inspired me. In tough economic times like these, many people are only concerned about their own prosperity. But Frank Hanna III has gone above and beyond typical generosity in philanthropy. In fact, he has given money a positive meaning during a time when it has such negative associations to so many people.

In a recent interview with Reader's Digest about his newly published book, Frank Hanna III discusses the role of the current economic crisis plays in the fostering giving. The message I got from the interview was the mindfulness we are all now directing at our own finances should also be directed at our giving. As Hanna stated in the interview, giving shows our humanity and brings out the best in all of us, especially in times like these.

Planning Your Next Getaway with YMT Vacations

2009-06-24T06:19:00.000-07:00

Its summer and everyone is starting to think vacation. Many of us might be opting for a less expensive staycation this year, but there is nothing like affording yourself the unique experience of guided travel abroad and right here in the USA. I was looking around this year for something for my family and I ran across YMT vacations, a company providing package guided tours with over 40 years experience.

YMT Vacations offers a variety of both guided land and cruise vacation packages including trips to Europe, Alaska and Hawaii ranging in duration from five to 24 days. There is really something for every taste and budget. Being on a coach or cruise ship is much different than traveling alone and certainly has its advantages. While some value independent travel, others find ease and security in prearranged itinerary and transportation. Companies like YMT vacations make that possible for travelers of any age.

Amos Tamam - Bring Taxis Into the 21st Century

2009-06-23T12:38:00.000-07:00

It is hard to imagine the days when paying by credit card was not available everywhere. Most people I know, including myself, pay by card whereever and whenever possible - even in taxis. It just makes things quicker and more convenient, especially when claiming it on your expense report. Although this technology has not yet spread nationwide, there was a time when this was impossible everywhere. But, engineer and entreprenuer Amos Tamam changed all this for taxi customers and drivers in New York City and Philadelphia.

Now CEO of Verifone Transportation, Inc., Amos Tamam began his career as a service professional working on New York City taxis. He used his experience and ingenuity to develop this payment system enabling easy payment, but also safeguarding drivers from robbery. Without cash in the vehicle, drivers are no longer the target of attacks.

Amos Tamam defines innovation in the world today. His creativity has made taxi fares easy and safe for all those involved.

K-Designers Offering Home Owners a Sound Investment

2009-06-23T12:24:00.000-07:00

It seems as if noone can escape the credit crunch now. My once unscathed family is finally being affected. Nobody has lost their jobs thankfully, but money is tighter that it ever before and we are all beginning to rethink the way in which we spend money. My parents have decided to spend the money they do have to improve their single biggest investment: their home. Dad told me he is working with K-Designers to enhance the house exterior and optimize energy efficiency.

K-Designers seems like a great company to work with from what Dad has said. They are completely customer satisfaction-oriented, have over 30 years experience and more than 100,000 satisfied customers. Ranked highly as a renovator and siding contractor, K-Designers also has a no-money down policy. My folks aren't paying anything until the work has been completed to their satisfaction. I can't wait to see how great the house will look after its makeover.

Make sales grow with SRC Leads

2009-06-23T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sales can be a tough field, especially in this uncertain financial climate. Having worked in the sales industry myself, I speak from experience. Along with basic sales technique, good leads are the very foundation of the trade. Finding accurate, solid leads is time consuming. The company SRC Leads takes the effort out of lead generation and gives sales professionals a serious advantage over others in the industry.

Providing leads in such industries as long-term care and financial market sales niches, SRC Leads is set apart from other lead generation services by its one-of-a-kind guarantee. Standing behind the total accuracy of every contact provided, SRC Leads also ensures exclusivity of their contacts for a half-year, meaning your leads will not be resold to anyone else for six months and ensuring your advantage of your competitors. On top of that, they offer a 90-day money back guarantee.

From a sales perspective, lead generation doesn't get any simpler than that.

Carl Sgro: Catching the Big Fish

2009-04-22T02:01:00.000-07:00

With over 25 years of industry know-how, business development professional Carl Sgro has been catching the big ones both in the fields of high tech and Internet enterprise as well as on the lake.

Having transformed several companies into national and international contenders, Carl Sgro is perhaps most recently known for his success in facilitating the multi-million dollar acquisition of Name Engine, Inc., a half-year old start-up, by VeriSign, Inc. in just a year and a half. In recent years, he has proved himself a specialist for SEO/SEM marketing solutions and for the development of ROI-effective pay-per-click advertising.

Carl Sgro is also a passionate, competition-quality bass fisherman who has turned his love of the sport into a community outreach. Sgro founded the 'Take a Kid Fishing' program in his local community to introduce children to the satisfaction and pleasure of this rewarding outdoor sport.

Mother's Day in March?

2009-04-17T02:39:00.000-07:00

For a little more than a year, my husband and I have been living in England. And let me tell you, it is the little differences that separate the Yanks from the Brits.

One big difference I have noticed and have learned to compensate for is the difference in when Mother's Day is celebrated.To my shock, Mother's day gifts and cards hit the shelves in February this year here in the UK. That is because Mothering Sunday (as it is known here) traditionally falls on the fourth Sunday of Lent. So I buy all my cards early and stockpile them until May to send home.

Mothers day gifts and cards from the UK are such a novelty with my Mom and Step-Mom back home. They always get a giggle when they see captions with 'Mum' and 'Mummy'. Gifts for mothers day otherwise aren't really all that different from what we have in the States. They just don't have the luxury and convenience of 1800 Flowers like we do. Thankfully, though, Father's Day is the same as ours!

Tip for All You Four-Eyes: Eyeglasses.com

2009-03-05T01:16:00.000-08:00

Being a glasses wearer myself, I always appreciate finding a vision retailer that provides great selection at a good price. And because my taste is not your standard, run-of-the-mill frames you find at mall optical retailers, I was tickled to find Eyeglasses.com, an online optical retailer.

With a huge selection of retro, contemporary, rimless, flexible and round glasses , I was impressed by the variety they they offer. The prices at Eyeglasses.com are also quite competitive in comparison to other vision retailers. If you are looking for something just a little different, or at simply value for money, check out this website. I know that is where I will be ordering my next pair of glasses !

Photo Courtesy of Ian Briton and/FreeFoto.com

Planning for Retirement with Andy Barkate

2009-02-26T05:37:00.000-08:00

In today's uncertain financial climate, every person is thinking about their retirement and their financial security in the future. Andy Barkate , owner of California Retirement Plans LLC, has decades of experience in helping people arrange for financial security in retirement.

Having provided numerous workshops to such prestigous companies and organizations such as Boeing, Pacific Bell, NASA, US Department of the Navy, Lockheed, and Shell Oil, Andy Barkate provides small business and individuals with retirement planning and various financial products such as tax advantaged investments, corporate pension and profit sharing, IRA rollovers, index annuities, estate planning, fixed annuities and 401(k), 412(i) and 457 deferred comp plans, employer/employee benefit plans, 419 welfare benefits plans, traditional and Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs, Educational IRAs, 529 educational plans and structured settlements.

Beyond his work in making a difference in people's retirement and later financial stability, Andy Barkate is also making a difference in his community through his work with St. Judes and children's sports.

Vaccine Expert and Renowned Pediatrician Dr. Paul Offit

2009-02-26T05:17:00.000-08:00

As an expecting mother, pediatric medicine and vaccination are major concerns for me. Even though my baby hasn't been born yet, I am already doing some research on these topics. That is when I came across Dr. Paul Offit , Chief of the Division of Infectious Diseases and the Director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.

Dr. Paul Offit has dedicated his career to making a difference in the areas of pediatric medicine and infectious diseases, two areas which are becoming of increasing importance in the age of SARS and new super bugs not unlike the flu epidemic seen in 1918. He has been published over 130 times in these areas for rotavirus specific immune reactions and vaccine safety and is a member of the Advisory Board for Immunization Practices for the CDC.

Having published four books on the subject of vaccine safety and medical practices with infectious disease, Dr. Paul Offit continues to be an invaluable resource for anyone wanting to inform themselves on these subjects.

American Tax Relief - Helping People Solve Their Tax Problems

2009-02-26T04:58:00.000-08:00

The scenario is a lot more common than you think, especially in today's financial climate: A person hits hard times financially and inevitably gets behind on tax payments. So what do you do when you are faced with more mounting debt, wage garnishment, property seizures, and total financial ruin? American Tax Relief offers sensible solutions to people in just such situations.

Little known to most Americans, the IRS actually approves settlement payments of a fraction of what is actually owed depending on the circumstances of the individual. Anyone can apply for such settlements, but if the proposal is not done professionally and thouroughly, a person may end up paying much more than necessary. Firms like American Tax Relief offer a free initial consultation to assess each individual's situation and recommend a certain course of action.

A nationwide firm specializing in proposing and securing settlements with the IRS, American Tax Relief has a team of professionals standing by at a client support line ready to help you find a solution for your back taxes concerns.

Dr. Joel Roskind and Quality Plastic Surgery

2009-02-26T04:30:00.000-08:00

Deciding to undergo plastic surgery to enhance or correct physical appearance is a huge decision. Choosing a doctor who you can trust is important. Dr. Joel Roskind, a Miami plastic surgeon, is committed to improving facial and body image through breast augmentation and reduction, laser procedures, and liposculpture.

A member of numerous medical organizations such as the American Society for Plastic Surgeons and the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Dr. Joel Roskind has also been recognized for his activity in patient and peer education. He has taught at numerous institutions including The Nassau University Medical Center, Cornell University and has worked as a voluntary Clinical Assistant Professor of Surgery at the University of Miami School of Medicine.

Dr. Joel Roskind has received acknowledgements and accolades from numerous patients and colleagues: "Dr. Roskind anticipated my concerns and fears. He took the time to answer all of my questions," and "I interviewed several board certified surgeons. When I met Dr. Roskind I knew he was the one to perform my surgery. He took the time to listen to my concerns, he answered all my questions and was very thorough in his explanations."

Muhammed Babangida and Influences from African Music

2009-02-26T04:07:00.000-08:00

As a freelance writer, I do a lot of surfing to inform myself of what is going on in the world. Sometimes it can be a real distraction, but it gives me an endless supply of new story ideas. I recently found a really interesting blog written by Nigerian businessman and sportsman, Muhammed Babangida about influences of African music.

With Black History Month just ending and President Obama crediting Stevie Wonder for helping him land the 'sunshine of his life' Michelle, the influences of African music Muhammed Babangida describes in his blog are now more relevant than ever.

A special advisor to the Santa Isabel Petroleum Company (a subsidiary of the China National Petroleum Company), Muhammed Babangida also sits on the board of Unity Bank PLC and has also served as the chairman of the board and head of the credit committee for Intercity Bank, PLC. Devoting his spare time to his love of sports and music, Muhammed is an accomplished polo player and enthusiastic fan and writer about African music and its influences in modern music.

Company Profile: K-Designers

2009-02-26T04:06:00.000-08:00

Thinking of remodeling your home? It is, after all, your greatest investment. K-Designers , the largest home remodeling company in the Western US, offers a wide range of home remodeling services and uses the highest quality materials available to add even more value to your home.

K-Designers has over 30 years experience in home remodeling and specializes in exterior siding, windows, storm, security,garage, and patio doors; gutter systems, and many more designer exterior accessories to enhance the beauty and value of your house.

Even with economic turbulence, remodeling your home can add thousands of dollars of value to your own four walls. Recognized with over 15 national awards and ranked among the top ten nationwide remodeling companies, the reliability and reputation K-Designers has in the industry guarantees piece of mind in making a substantial investment in your home.

Amos Tamam in the Land of Opportunity

2009-02-26T02:55:00.000-08:00

Even though I am sometimes very critical of the country of my birth, I never stop hearing stories about immigrants coming in search of a new life, success, prosperity - and creating all those things for themselves in the USA.

After coming to the US in the early 1980s from Tel Aviv as a trained electrical engineer, Amos Tamam started out servicing taxi cabs at a fleet garage in New York City. Thrity years later, Amos is still working with taxis, but now on a much larger scale.

Amos Tamam is the CEO of Verifone Transportation Systems, a division of Verifone Corporation, and leading provider of wireless payment technology in taxis currently used in NYC and Philadelphia. He began to develop this technology in the 1990s in his company Taxitronic.

With his vision and feel for implementing innovation, Amos Tamam is yet another example of those 'rags to riches' stories inspiring so many people to come to the US and make a new start. We can all take a little inspiration from his story.

Frank Hanna and Meaningful Money Mangagement

2009-02-26T02:16:00.000-08:00

The credit crunch has everyone, myself included, doing some thinking about their relationship to money. Surfing around, I found a blog written by Frank Hanna , an investor in both for and not-for-profit enterprise and cofounder of Hanna Capital LLC in 1989. His blog makes interesting points about the harm greed can and has caused in the US and throughout the world economy.

It is this principle that underlies the strategies used by Frank Hanna at Hanna Capital LLC.

He and his partner, David Hanna, seek to make ethical, data-driven investments grounded in reality and with a high degree of liquidity.

The philosophies used by Frank Hanna at Hanna Capital LLC take a no-nonsense approach - something that has obviously been lacking from many strategies used in the last years.

United American Insurance Company - Reliable Insurance for Seniors

2009-02-26T01:46:00.000-08:00

With all the economic uncertainty surrounding us nowadays, insurance coverage is becoming more important than ever.

Founded in 1947 to provide insurance products to the people of Texas, United American Insurance Company began to focus on insurance exclusively designed for seniors in 1966. Since being founded, the company has begun operating in 49 states, the District of Colombia and Canada.

United American Insurance Company offers a full range of reliable and quality insurance products for seniors such as health, life, and cancer/critical illness policies; Medicare supplements and Part D plans, as well as group retiree plans.

Reliability and a solid reputation are characteristics United American Insurance Company prides itself on. The company has been awarded with high ratings for nearly 30 consecutive years. As recently as 2007, it received the A+ (Superior) Financial Strength Rating from A.M. Best anAA "Very Strong" for Financial Strength by Standard & Poor's.

Wangethi Mwangi : Representing an Independent Kenya

2009-02-26T01:35:00.000-08:00

In emerging countries and economies, perhaps one of the most important assets is free press. Independent media give citizens access to unbiased reporting and opinion, free from governmental propaganda. One such example is veteran journalist Wangethi Mwangi , Editorial Director at with Kenya's largest media conglomerate, National Media Group.

Wangethi Mwangi is very aware of the role of NMG in Kenyan politics and the development of democracy in Africa: "The Nation Media Group has been one of the key players in the independence campaign for Kenya, and a champion of democracy in East Africa."

In his role as Editorial Director at National Media Group, Wangethi Mwangi heads Kenya's leading newspaper, The Daily Nation, as well as the premier multi-media house in East Africa in both electronic and print platforms.

A Rose by Any Other Name

2009-02-11T07:39:00.000-08:00

Since Valentine's Day is quickly approaching, I thought I would share a few of my favorite quotes about roses - here are just a few I found that really spoke to me:

“Discipline trains you to put up with disappointments, every rose has a thorn.”
- Sri Sathya Sai Baba (Indian Spiritual Leader)

This quote really talks about the duality of life. Nothing can ever be entirely good or entirely bad. Everything has negative and positive points, even the most beautiful of flowers.

Another great thinker, the Lebanese born American philosophical poet and essayist Kahlil Gibrahn, had this to say about roses :

“The optimist sees the rose and not its thorns; the pessimist stares at the thorns, oblivious to the rose.”

Like Sathya Sai Baba, this quote speaks about the dual nature of life and how we chose to see things. We can chose to ignore the bad sides or the good sides of any life situation.

Wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day!

What's wrong with flowers for Valentine's Day?

2009-01-26T12:51:00.000-08:00

I pride myself on being an emancipated woman, but I still enjoy a little chivalry in my life. Opening doors, helping me in and out of my jacket, picking up the tab at the restaurant - little things really. And I don't think it is so bad to expect some flowers once in a while, if not flowers for valentines.

Now, my guy is wonderful and takes great care of me. But he comes from another country and there, it just isn't traditional to give roses for valentines or generally many gifts for that matter. I can't really hold that against him, but I also can't help but want some old-fashioned romance now and then.

Maybe instead of pining away for some Valentines Day roses I should just tell him how I feel. Or better yet I could just call 1-800 Flowers and order those flowers for myself.