LuskHeart

Filipina: Iwa Moto

2007-05-04T19:25:00.000-07:00

Biography

Name: Iwa Moto
Nickname: Alien, Lyn, Ewa, Aiwa
Birthday: August 29, 1988
Birth Place: Las Pinas City
Showbiz Anniversary: March 13, 2006

Favorites

Hobbies: Matulog, manood ng TV, tumambay at kumain
Sports: Cheering, volleyball, track & field
Pets: Dogs, cats and fishes
Movie: The Notebook, Mean Girls
TV Show: Nuts Entertainment, Love to Love, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, Animax, AXN
Singers: Joy and Bevz
Song: "Huwag Na," "Kulang na Kulang," "Can’t Take That Away," "Tattooed On My Mind," and "Eternal Flame"
Music: Senti, R&B, hiphop, rock
Book: Eat Right For Your Type
Author: I forgot eh!
Expression: Girl!

Personal

Adjective that best describes you: Frank
Fashion: Shirt, jeans, cap and rubber shoes
Most treasured item: Towel
Fears: Death
Unforgettable Childhood Memory: When I fell from the stairs in Glorietta
Goals: To become successful

Filipino Student Creates Social Networking Service

2007-05-04T19:12:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines - Twenty-year-old student Jerome Uy of the Mapua Institute of Technology is attracting young Filipinos and alike to a social networking website he created.

Developed in late November 2006, the social networking service, dubbed Oyaye, has already registered about 8,000 members as of April this year, and more are people signing up to his service.

Combining different elements he picked from other existing social networking services, Uy disclosed in an e-mail interview that this one-man endeavor is an effort to develop a "new web 2.0 website that would focus on the needs of the Filipinos."

"Slowly I have developed a search engine powered by Google that gives more results from the Philippine websites. I hope that in the future, this site would cater to the needs of every Filipino locally and abroad featuring job search, real estate ads, classifieds, andauthentic job listings for Filipinos going abroad. Hopefully within two years this site would be one of the top web 2.0 sites on the Net that Filipinos can be proud of," he said.

School requirements prompted Uy to develop Oyaye.

While attending his National Service Training Program class, he found it impossible to keep up with the information posted by their professors on Yahoo Groups to collaborate the events and assignment on the Internet. So he went ahead and developed his social networking website.

He claims to have done most of the design and the backend programming. But he intends to outsource "some of the difficult programming jobs" to other people soon; that is, if he finds money to spare.

There is also a story behind the name Oyaye (pronounced as Oh-Ya-Yeah).

"It was just a coincidence that Oyaye is also found in the Filipino dictionary. It motivated me more to think that the site would get a lot of Filipino visitors because of its name and origin. I really believe that the Philippines can be at par with other countries. This can be seen in the social networking site of Friendster that receives most traffic from the Philippines. By centralizing the need in the online market , Oyaye could be the one stop online source of Filipino users," he said.

By word of mouth, Uy said he was able to attract people to try his online service.

Asked if he has already mapped a business plan for the site, he admitted he has yet to do so.

"So far, Google Adsense is able to shoulder a bit of its webhosting fees that I'm paying every month," he added.

Yu was born in Manila but he eventually studied in Brunei for about 12 years. He came home in 2001 after his dad suffered a stroke.

"When I arrived here, I looked for a summer job as a computer technician and then shifted to web design when I got addicted to the Internet," he said.

Eventually he got a job in a company as a web designer. In 2002, he moved to a company in Makati as a web developer and consultant for e-commerce integration. But he went back to Brunei to continue his studies and work part-time as a network administrator.

Currently, he stopped going to school for a semester to take care of his dad. "Hopefully I'll be back (to school) this June," he said.

Oyaye is still evolving, Uy said. For now, he is just proud that he has developed a social networking website that friends and other people have found useful.

Beyonce Knowles

2007-05-04T18:49:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Jeni Hernandez

2007-04-27T20:57:00.000-07:00

Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon: Advanced War Fighter 2

2007-04-27T20:51:00.000-07:00

The award-winning original next-generation killer app returns with Tom Clancy’s Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter 2. The Ghosts are back!

It’s 2014, and the soldier of the future returns to encounter a new and more imminent threat along the recently completed wall on the U.S./Mexico border. The Ghosts are more powerful, with an upgraded Integrated Warfighter System (IWS) but will have only 72 hours to assess the threat and stop the rebels from reaching U.S. soil. With a border that’s 1,900 miles long and an enemy that doesn’t play by the rules, this is a job for the U.S. military’s most elite fighting unit. This is a job for the Ghosts.

Some of the new features of the game

Groundbreaking Visual Experience:

The war zone in Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Advanced Warfighter comes to life as you navigate through trash-strewn streets and pick off enemies from behind bomb-scarred structures. The cutting-edge physics and particle systems will show you some of the most intense and realistic explosions, smoke, and environment destruction ever seen in a video game. Dynamic lighting and shadows will morph as real-time day/night cycles and a constantly changing weather system require you to adjust to the changing conditions on the fly.

All-New Battlegrounds:

For the first time ever, the Ghosts will defend U.S. soil from a cross-border attack, taking the fight to all-new locations. The Ghosts will battle enemies in mountain terrains, barren deserts and even on their home turf in El Paso, Texas. Each environment presents its own benefits and challenges and will call for fresh tactical approaches.

Vastly Improved Artificial Intelligence (AI):

Watch your back as rebels send their own team members to flank your position or gain vantage points by utilizing vertical gameplay to pick you off from the rooftops above. Improved squad-mate AI will now feed you more of the information you need with descriptive commands like "enemy spotted behind red truck ahead."

Improved Cross-Com:

The revolutionary new Cross-Com 2.0 will give the player more information than ever before. You will be able to see what your friendly forces see in the top left display and the click of a button will expand that to full-screen view for a clearer and more precise picture. This will give you a more comprehensive view of the entire battlefield. The new Full Command View will allow unprecedented precision in developing and issuing tactical plans on the battlefield.

Expanded Support:

Command lethal air strikes with jet fighters, gain mobile cover for otherwise impassable situations and replenish armaments on the battlefield using an unmanned artillery MULE. Players can now heal their team on the battlefield, including squad leader Scott Mitchell, with an all-new Medic class of soldier.

Become the soldier of the future:

Use a fully integrated combat system with cutting-edge weapons and communication systems, all based on real military research

The new Recon vs. Assault mode will have players fight their way through this Mexican village near the US border. As a member of the elite Ghost squad, gamers will need to use all of their know-how and expertise to stay hidden and sneak through small winding roads to locate and engage the enemy. As a Mexican rebel, players must be prepared to engage the Ghosts, using high calibre fire power, and must stop them at all cost.

The return of Team Deathmatch will challenge players and their friends to a fight where everything is possible; explore, engage and terminate.

Maria Sharapova

2007-04-27T19:59:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Rica Peralejo

2007-04-20T19:47:00.000-07:00

Biography

Rica Peralejo began her career in show business as a child actress in the ABS-CBN children's variety show Ang TV. She would eventually move on to teen-oriented programs such as T.G.I.S. and Gimik.

Growing into adulthood, Rica Peralejo began acting in movies and through the years she has gained popularity by periodically shifting into different movie genres. She starred in comedies such as Banyo Queen (with rapper Andrew E.) and action movies like Ex-Con (movie). This was followed by her roles in "sexy" movies such as Balahibong Pusa earning her the title "Bold Queen". More recently, Rica Peralejo became well-known for her roles in horror movies such as Malikmata and it was because of these movies that the Philippine media alternately dubbed her "Horror Queen" and "Scream Queen". She is reportedly filming a new horror movie titled Matakot Ka Sa Karma which will be shown at the 2006 Metro Manila Film Festival.

In between making movies, Rica Peralejo also appears in television programs such as the sitcom Ok Fine Whatever and the weekly variety program ASAP. She recently wrapped up the drama series Sa Piling Mo which is currently available on video.

Ever the performer, Rica Peralejo also found time for her singing career. In the late 1990s she released the album Ikaw Pa Rin At Ako which produced the hit single Fallin'. She was also featured in the soundtrack of the movie Sa Huling Paghihintay where she sang three songs: Maghihintay Ako, Can We Just Stop And Talk A While and Bakit Mahal Kita. Her current album is titled Bollywood Fever.

God Of War II

2007-04-20T19:35:00.000-07:00

At last, the sequel to the highly successful game God Of War is out - A friend of mine lend me God of War II with a remark that I will really enjoy the game, better than God of War I.

God of War II brings players back to the violent world of Greek mythology where they last left the vicious ex-Spartan warrior Kratos atop his godly throne as the new God of War. In God of War II, Kratos must journey to the far reaches of the earth and defeat untold horrors and alter that which no mortal, or god has ever changed, his fate.

Armed with a new set of combat moves and magic, in addition to some of the weapons and skills from the original God of War, players will lead Kratos in battle against Colossus, Cyclops, Cerberus, the Flying Gryphon and many more great beasts of Greek mythology.

God of War II sets an epic stage for a devastating mythological war to end all wars. Armed with the deadly blades and blistering rage, players will be aided by new breath-taking magic and new brutal combat moves.

The journey will take them through vividly striking environments where they will be faced with a labyrinth of challenging puzzles and mini-games intricately woven into the story. The violence will come to life in gory detail as Kratos encounters new mythical characters, and competes in epic boss battles in his quest.

Following in the footsteps of its predecessor, God of War II promises high quality gameplay and is the must-have title for 2007. With fan anticipation and a 96% rating on GameRankings, supported with the following high review scores from leading gaming media outlets: IGN - 9.7, GameSpy - 5/5, 1up - 9.5/10, Gamezone - 9.5/10, GameInformer - 9.75/10, and GamePro - 5/5, God of War II spurred more than one million retail orders prior to launch.

“God of War II demonstrates our continued commitment to provide compelling content for the PlayStation2 and sets the stage for the God of War franchise to become a staple across the PlayStation family of products,” said Jeff Reese, Director, Software Marketing, SCEA. “There is so much more of the God of War story left to tell and we are excited to bring the franchise to PSP fans may even see their esteemed God of War in full 1080p HD in the not-too-distant future.”

Swimsuit Gallery 1

2007-04-20T19:30:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Jaycee Parker

2007-04-13T21:29:00.000-07:00

Biography

Height: 5’3”

Jaycee has always dreamed of stardom ever since she was a little girl. The youngest, most playful, and “pinaka-kalog” of the Hotbabes, Jaycee is a confessed internet addict who loves creating websites as much as dancing and barhopping. She does not like dull moments, and her cheery disposition can overcome any glum moods.

CD/VCD/DVD

Sensual Dancing With Regie Tolentino, Pink Palaka Andrew E., Bulaklak Album, Kikay Album, Basketbol Album

TV Apearances

Yes Yes Show, MTB, ASAP, SOP, Kakaba-kaba, Nuts Entertainment, Home Along D Airport, Klasmeyts, Whattamen

Movies

Boso, Keke, Utang Ng Ama, Spirit Warriors 2, Gagamboy, Lastikman

Endorsements

Tanduay (Guerrero Brandy), Hanes For Women, Teen Hanes For Women, SM Sara Lee Cosmetics

A member of the 2nd batch of the Viva Hot Babes which includes Asia Agcaoili...

Mario and Sonic To Be In A Game Together

2007-04-13T21:17:00.000-07:00

SEGA Corporation and Nintendo Co. Ltd. made a historical announcement that two of the biggest icons in the entertainment industry, Mario and Sonic, are joining forces to star in Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games. Developed for the Wii video game system and the Nintendo DS™ system, this momentous agreement marks the first time these two renowned stars have appeared together in a game.

Published by SEGA across Europe and North America, and published by Nintendo in the Japanese market, Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games will be available for Holiday 2007 and is licensed through a worldwide partnership with International Sports Multimedia (ISM), the exclusive interactive entertainment software licensee of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

In Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games, players will compete in events that take place in environments based on the official venues of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.

Using a supporting cast of characters from the amazing worlds of both Mario and Sonic, gamers will be able to compete as or against a range of lovable personalities including Mario, Sonic, Luigi, Knuckles, Yoshi, Tails and more. Innovative usage of the Wii and DS control systems to maneuver a favorite character will allow players to race the likes of Mario and Sonic down the 100m track, engage in exhilarating rallies in table tennis and churn water in a swimming heat, all while competing for the much sought after gold medal.

“We are thrilled to partner with Nintendo and ISM on this groundbreaking title,” said Hisao Oguchi, President and Chief Operating Officer, SEGA Corporation. “For the first time, two of the world’s greatest games’ characters come together to compete in the world’s greatest sporting event and we couldn’t be more excited.”

“Mario and Sonic have been respectful rivals since the early days of video games,” says Shigeru Miyamoto, Senior Managing Director and General Manager, Entertainment Analysis and Development Division, Nintendo Co., Ltd.. “In fact, for a long time they have been discussing the possibility of one day competing against each other. Now that they have been given the perfect opportunity to meet at the Olympic Games, we may finally learn who is actually faster, Mario or Sonic?”

“The Olympic Games represent the true spirit of competition and passion,” said Raymond Goldsmith, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ISM. “Bringing together intensely competitive and fun characters like Mario and Sonic in an Olympic setting helps showcase the sports of the Olympic Games in a new and compelling way for all generations.”

Filipina Celebrity 1

2007-04-13T20:59:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Gwen Garci

2007-04-07T20:34:00.000-07:00

Biography

Name: Gwen Garci

Real Name: Mai Lee Ang

Height: 5'7"

Interesting Facts

Filipino Chinese - grew up in Baguio

Family owns a department store, a salon, and a spa, among other businesses

She used the name Gwen Garcia before entering showbiz. Upon the suggestion of her manager Jessica Rodriguez, Gwen dropped the last letter a in her adopted screen name Garcia since there are already too many celebrities using Garcia in Filipino showbiz.

A member of Viva's Hot Babes.
A winner in the 1997 Bodyshots contest held in Baguio.
Of Chinese-Japanese-Spanish-Filipino descent.

Blogger Receives Death Threats

2007-04-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

THREATS SHOW DARK SIDE OF WEB

Death threats against a popular tech blogger this week have ignited an online firestorm about free speech, civility and sexism on the Internet.

The threats against Kathy Sierra, an author who promotes the notion of emphasizing the needs of the user in Web site design, have sparked a Webwide debate on the nature of online discourse.

The incident and its aftermath have drawn back the curtain on a computer culture in which the more outrageous the comment, the more attention it gets. It's a world that many women in particular see as still dominated by men and where personal attacks often are defended on grounds of free speech.

In addition, many of the newest tools of the Internet are coming into play. Blogs and online communities were supposed to herald an era in which "the wisdom of crowds" guided online behavior to a higher plane. Instead, instances of mob rule appear to be leading the discussion into the sewer.

Some observers believe the incident eventually could serve as a warning to Web communities to increase accountability and stamp out the vitriol that characterizes much of online conversation.

"We need to say this is not acceptable behavior," said Tim O'Reilly, CEO of Sebastopol's O'Reilly Media, which publishes Sierra's books and runs the ETech conference where Sierra was scheduled to speak this week. "If you start making offensive comments, they will be deleted from a blog. Don't give people that platform."

Sierra detailed the incident on her blog on Monday, and the site has received more than 1,200 comments since then. At issue are a series of threats, filed by an unknown person for unknown reasons, on Sierra's blog and on a group of sites dedicated to criticizing the philosophies of Sierra and others.

Hundreds of bloggers have offered up their own posts in her defense, including many from women in the tech world who say they've been the victims of similar threats and harassment. In Sierra's case, no one is clear about why she would be singled out for such particularly nasty threats.

"Ever since the whole blog storm erupted, a lot of people are writing about this on their own blogs in support of Kathy," said David Sifry, founder and CEO of Technorati, a San Francisco firm that helps chart what's happening in the blogosphere. He cited prominent tech bloggers like Robert Scoble, Thomas Hawk and Hugh MacLeod for "linking to Kathy's post and showing solidarity for her. That's the powerful aspect of community, standing up in opposition to the kind of abusive, misogynistic comments that were posted."

Yet some of Sierra's supporters have begun to resemble vigilantes running in the other direction as they lash out at the people she singled out as creating the climate for the threats.

"Going out and forming a mob to go after somebody before you know what's going on isn't good either," Sifry said. "Sometimes you need to allow a certain amount of time to pass to understand the facts of a situation like this."

The incident has its roots in a dispute that started online last month when Tara Hunt, a tech activist from San Francisco, posted on her blog about the importance of having a "higher purpose" in Web work. A wide-ranging discussion ensued, centered on some posts by Chris Locke, who had achieved some fame in Internet marketing circles as co-author of a 1999 book, "The Cluetrain Manifesto," which touts the notion of letting customers guide companies.

Locke, Hunt and others then engaged in a debate, which spilled over to other blogs. Hunt accused Locke and his cohorts of behaving "like the mean kids in high school," and Locke then started a critical Web site called meankids.org. Then Sierra defended Hunt on that Web site.

According to Sierra's online account, someone then posted a call for a noose around her neck. Anonymous posters put up pictures of Sierra's head next to a noose and started making sexual comments about her. Sierra also received anonymous threats on her own site.

On Saturday, meankids.org went down, and a new site, unclebobism.com, went up. It featured a digitally altered photo of Sierra being strangled in women's panties and included graphic and sexually violent comments.

Sierra was alarmed and notified police. She canceled plans to speak at O'Reilly's tech conference in San Diego. On Monday, she posted the news, and the blogosphere went wild.

On Tuesday, Locke published his defense, saying that he did not make the threats, that the meankids.org site was meant to be amusing and "a lot of fun" and that the meankids.org and unclebobism.com Web sites were taken down when the "tasteless posts" appeared.

Locke also acknowledged that he is a critic of Sierra and stated that he would not apologize to her. He said that her singling him out for responsibility for the attacks on her amounted to "character assassination."

Sierra said Wednesday that O'Reilly actually had brokered a conversation between herself and Locke, both of whom live in Boulder, Colo. She said that they had exchanged some constructive e-mails in which Locke said he would help try to find out who made the comments. Locke did not respond to an e-mail Wednesday afternoon.

"All I care about is finding out who it is," Sierra said. "Then I can end the police thing. That would be my preference."

And while Sierra was "overwhelmed" by the outpouring of support and affection for her online, she was also startled to see many people writing that she had overreacted.

"It's easy to say, 'Get over yourself, this is the Internet,' but would I bet my mother, daughter or sister's life on it if those pictures showed up and I didn't know exactly who was behind it?" she said. "Even if the odds are low, the stakes are high."

Sierra said she remained mystified at what could have prompted someone to say such things about her. She said that some of the people she named on her site had told her, "You're too optimistic. You paint too happy a picture."

"The more visibility you have, then the more people pay attention," she said. "And if they find you annoying, then they're resentful that people are listening to this obvious idiot."

Sierra, who is in her 40s, was a game developer who went to work at Sun Microsystems, where she started a Web community around Sun's Java software, called javaranch.com. She started a series of technical books for O'Reilly called Head First and is working on a book with her husband, "Creating Passionate Users." She was the opening keynote speaker at this month's South by Southwest Interactive Festival in Austin, Texas.

Women who spend a lot of time online said Sierra's experience is sadly common.

"This has been going on for a long time," said Susan Herring, a professor of information science and linguistics at the University of Indiana who has studied gender dynamics in online communication since the 1990s. "There is a minority of men, for the most part, who enjoy antagonizing women, particularly when they become more visible. Kathy became more visible, on her blog, taking controversial positions, and triggered a lot of misogyny."

Somehow, the mere act of typing at a keyboard often emboldens people to make stronger assertions than they might in a face-to-face conversation, she said. Adding the anonymity that the Internet offers only increases the rage.

"It brings out the animal in us a little more, because the veneer of civilization is removed when nobody knows who you are," Herring said.

Some veteran observers of the online scene, while acknowledging the Internet's role, said not to blame the technology for something that's been happening since the dawn of humanity.

O'Reilly drew an analogy to talk radio, saying that while some of it is filled with hateful comments, other shows, like "Talk of the Nation" on National Public Radio, maintain a culture of civility. If someone tried making vitriolic comments there, he said, "they'd be cut off."

The same rule should apply to Web communities, he said. "Don't tolerate that. Don't allow it. Delete their comments.

"Should we be allowing anonymity?" O'Reilly asked. "There are certain cases where anonymity is important for frank dialogue. But if the comments are no longer constructive, then they don't belong here."

Filipina: Misa Ocampo 3

2007-04-07T20:21:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Angel Locsin

2007-03-30T19:33:00.000-07:00

Biography

Name: Angel Locsin

Nickname: Angel

Birthday: April 23, 1985

Birth Place: Bulacan

Showbiz Anniversary: November 30

Favorites

Color: Blue

Food: Lasagna, Chocolate

Actress: Sharon Cuneta

Singer: Mandy Moore

Book: Harry Potter series

Adjective that best describes you: Simple person

Personal

Full Name: Angelica Colmenares

Hobbies: Dancing, Reading, Cooking and Learning new recipes

Fashion: Casual

Hang-out: House, Mall

Fears: Losing my love ones

Likes: Friendly, thoughtful, and loyal people

Pet peeves: Untidy and Mayabang persons

Motto in Life: Just be yourself.

The XCute DV2 Mobile Phone

2007-03-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

A cutie-cutie phone camera that’s compact and lightBy Paul Marc RañonWhat comes into everyone’s mind when they hear the “cuteness”? Some will say it is about youth, innocence, and helplessness. Some will even associate it with infants and puppies. But what about if it’s a mobile phone? Most would describe it in many words.

When I was told to review the XCute DV2 mobile phone, the first impression that came into my mind was, “Honey, I shrunk my N93!” It seems to me that this little kid from Hong Kong called the shots and went in the competitive mobile phone market. To tell, I was quite dumbfounded just by looking at it. Anyway, read along.

Out of the box, the XCute DV2 package includes the unit, two batteries, charger, audio / video out cable, hands-free headset, 512MB Mini SD card, software CD, and a user manual. From the looks of it, the package has lots of bundled extras in comparison to average box contents of other phones from the competition.

The XCute DV2 is a tri-band (GSM 900 / GSM 1800 / GSM 1900) phone, with size dimensions of 87 x 46.6 x 22 millimeters, and weighs 118 grams. It has a TFT 16M color display with a 640 x 240 pixel resolution. The XCute DV2 has a second external OLED 65K color display with a 96 x 65 pixel resolution.

The phone has a black glossy finish and silver highlights that looks impressive, but it gives a plastic feel and a magnet for fingerprints. It has a bulb that protrudes from the top left hand side that is quite odd at first glance. To tell, it doesn’t makes the DV2 lopsided when held because it serves it houses the phone’s camera module

The DV2’s keypad is based on a basic clamshell layout with a 4-way navigational button surrounded by 4 selection buttons at the top with the alphanumeric pad below. The shortcoming is that the keys are not raised well wherein fingers can slip on the wrong key for first-time users.

Although the build quality of the DV2 is good, the question remains as to how the rotating mechanism found at the base of the screen will last. Our guess is that this is just how it feels like for a rotating clamshell display. But the good side is that it allows the user to do great taking pictures and video recording.

Viewing pictures or videos on the DV2’s 640 x 240 pixel display is very crisp and has good vivid colors. One notable shortcoming is that the screen has an aspect ratio of 4:3 wherein the pixels are not exactly square in shape, thus causing texts to look slightly jagged.

What makes the DV2 unique among the competition? It has a round dial on the opposite side of the phone to the camera that has six different symbols, camera, gallery, video camera, voice recorder and MP3. At the center, there is a slightly raised round button used for taking pictures, start / stopping video clips.

The DV2 also has a long skinny button below the dial that is used to increase or decrease the volume and below that is a shorter skinny button that is known as the ‘shift’ key. This key is used to select phone functions and each time it is pressed it moves clockwise to the next mode that makes it quick and simple.

When it comes SMS, the DV2 has a SmartABC input system that is quite different from the usual T9 predictive input in other mobile phones. It works similarly to T9 but instead of inserting the word as you type, it displays a list of possible matching words at the bottom of the screen then press enter on the one you wish to use.

According to XCute, the DV2 is the first commercially available 6 MegaPixel camera phone. But based on our tests, the phone actually has a 3 MegaPixel sensor (2048 x 1536 pixels) that interpolates to 6 MP. On the side of the camera, there is a slider button that controls the camera’s manual focus.

When in camera mode, the phone is designed to be opened 90 degrees and then have the screen rotated 90 degrees so that it faces away from the camera. We had to hold the phone in a gun-like fashion using the thumb to press the record button and index finger to adjust the manual focus button.

A user can customize the camera settings that include exposure time, image size, image quality, white balance, flash and more. The DV2’s LED flash is located under the camera sensor, and based on our tests, it is only effective at an average range of 2 to 3 meters.

However, the images taken using the DV2 were surprising crisp, have no barrel distortion, and no focus problems were observed. As for videos, the DV2 can record up to a maximum of 640 x 480 pixels resolution, at 30 frames per second (fps). Video playback on the DV2 screen looks great.

As for its MP3 player feature, it is quite good actually. But the DV2 struggles much on sound quality. The sound lacks almost any bass and is generally of poor quality through both the loudspeaker and the included headphones. Transferring music files to the DV2 is done using a provided USB cable.

Although the DV2 has a bundled 512 Mini SD card for added juice, the GUI of the DV2 is quite slow, because it takes almost 10 seconds of pressing and turning on the phone. Another is that it has no Bluetooth, IR, EDGE, 3G, or even Wi-Fi. It only has GPRS Class 10 and WAP 2.0 / xHTML.

The DV2 is powered by a Lithium Ion 700mAh battery that has a charging time of 3.5 hours, talktime time of about 2.5 hours, and a standby time of 4 days, depending on the usage.

To sum it all up, the XCute DV2 mobile phone is a good phone camera because it shows they have designed the phone around the camera. Despite its shortcomings, the DV2 has a high megapixel camera and it is compact and lightweight. And by the way, the phone is available here at the Technews Lab.

Filipina: Misa Ocampo 2

2007-03-30T18:53:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Camille Prats

2007-03-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

Biography

Name: Camille Prats

Nickname: Cams

Birthday: June 20, 1985

Birth Place: Manila

Showbiz Anniversary: November 30

Favorites

Hobbies: Reading, surfing the net, DVDs

Sports: Badminton, boxing, Muay Thai

Pet/s: Dogs

Actors/Actresses: Local: Vilma Santos, Claudine Baretto

Foreign: Angelina Jolie

Movie: Meet Joe Black TV

Show: Capt. Barbell, That 70’s show, Friends, The OC, Desperate Housewives

Singers: Regine Velasquez, Justin Timberlake, Alicia Keys Song: "Secret Garden," "Make Me Whole "

Book: Angels and Demons, Tuesdays with Morrie, 5 People You Meet in Heaven

Author: Dan Brown, Mitch Albom

Personal

Full Name: Sheena Patricia Camille Q. Prats

Adjective that best describes you: Cute

Pet Peeves: Dirty nails

Unforgettable childhood memory: Sarah, Ang Munting Prinsesa Role Model: My parents

Microsoft Unites Xbox and PC Gamers

2007-03-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

Microsoft Corp. announced the extension of the Xbox LIVE games and entertainment network to the Windows platform, bringing together the most popular online console game service with the most popular games platform in the world. Debuting on May 8, 2007, with the launch of the Windows Vista version of the Xbox blockbuster "Halo 2," Games for Windows - LIVE will connect Windows gamers to over six million gamers already in the Xbox LIVE community. Then, launching in June, "Shadowrun" will, for the first time, connect Windows gamers with Xbox 360 players in cross-platform matches using a single service. "UNO," releasing later in 2007, will also support cross-platform play between Windows and Xbox 360.

The launch of Games for Windows - LIVE marks a major expansion of the Xbox LIVE service across multiple platforms, uniting gamers with a single identity, a single gamertag, a single friends list and a single list of achievements attainable on the Xbox 360 and a Windows-based PC. Games for Windows - LIVE gamers will be able to easily find and play supported titles online with their friends across a Windows computer or an Xbox 360. As a unified service with Xbox LIVE, Games for Windows - LIVE will be available in every country and region supported today by Xbox LIVE.

The following games make up the first wave of titles to support the Games for Windows -- LIVE service:

"Halo 2" for Windows Vista (Microsoft Game Studios). Release date: May 8, 2007. The highly anticipated title brings Master Chief to Windows Vista and is the first title to incorporate the new Games for Windows - LIVE service. Windows Vista gamers will be able to challenge each other in PC-to-PC multiplayer matches and earn achievements for the first time in the "Halo" franchise, as well as communicate via voice or text with other Xbox LIVE or Games for Windows - LIVE members. The visually enhanced classic includes an all-new Map Editor, which will allow for new content and greater game customization. "Halo 2" will be playable with mouse and keyboard or the Xbox 360 Controller for Windows.

"Shadowrun" (Microsoft Game Studios). Release date: June 2007. The intense first-person shooter will let gamers rewrite the rules of engagement as they vie for supremacy in an experience that rewards cleverness, cunning and split-second improvisation through a unique combination of modern weapons, ancient magic and advanced technology. The first title to connect both Windows Vista and Xbox 360 gamers in cross-platform competition will let up to 16 players battle online. Cross-platform play will require Gold level membership.

"UNO" (Carbonated Games/Mattel Inc.). Release date: 2007. The classic party card game that's a No. 1 hit on Xbox LIVE Arcade is also coming to Windows Vista and Games for Windows - LIVE. Gamers will be able to compete against three other players on the Xbox 360 or Windows Vista platforms to match colors and symbols and be the first to play every single card in this award-winning game. For gameplay today, "UNO" is currently available on MSN(R) Games, Messenger Games and Xbox LIVE Arcade.

Filipina: Misa Ocampo 1

2007-03-23T19:26:00.000-07:00

Filipina: Angelica Panganiban

2007-03-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

Biography

Name: Angelica David Panganiban

Birth date: November 4, 1986

Height: 5'6"

Mother: Annabell Panganiban

Place of birth: Caloocan City

Schools attended: St. Vincent in Teacher’s Village, Quezon City; St. Vincent, West Avenue

Interesting Facts

Appeared in the 2007 Ginebra calendar.

Maxim Philippines' first cover girl.

Appeared in the cover of FHM Philippines in March 2007.

Appeared in the cover of Cosmopolitan Philippines in September 2006.

Endorser for Bench.

Part of the "Bench Fever The Underwear and Denim Show" held on June 30, 2006 at the Araneta Coliseum.

She has no memories of her father.

When she was younger, Angelica had thought that her grandfather, Alfredo Panganiban, was her real father.

She won a Famas in her first film "Separada" for Best Child Actress.

Her parents separated when she was two years old.

She was the Junior-Senior Prom Princess in 2002 and Miss Junior and Senior Prom in 2003.

Israel Unveils Portable Hunter-killer Robot

2007-03-16T19:09:00.000-07:00

JERUSALEM (Reuters) - An Israeli defense firm on Thursday unveiled a portable robot billed as being capable of entering most combat zones alone and engaging enemies with an onboard armory that includes a machine-pistol and grenades.

The VIPeR, roughly the size of a small television, was invented as part of Israel's efforts to develop weaponry that could reduce the risks to its forces from hand-to-hand fighting against Palestinian or Lebanese Hezbollah guerrillas.

The manufacturer, Elbit Systems Ltd., said that the VIPeR's small size and dual treads enable it to move "undeterred by stairs, rubble, dark alleys, caves or narrow tunnels."

As well as bomb-sniffing and bomb disposal equipment, the VIPeR can carry an Uzi machine-pistol or plant a grenade. The weapons would be aimed using an onboard video camera.

According to Elbit, which has close links with the Defense Ministry, Israel plans to deploy the VIPeR among its infantry units after field tests. The robot could also be of interest to foreign police units or U.S. forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Filipina Hot Chicks 1

2007-03-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Hollywood: Pictures 7

2007-03-09T18:21:00.000-08:00

Granado Espada opens up for Filipino Guilds

2007-03-09T18:19:00.001-08:00

Freedom. Unity. Friendship. This trinity of virtues represents the very core of Granado Espada (G.E.), the newest MMORPG opus from legendary Korean game developer Hakkyu Kim, creator of Ragnarök Online—freedom from restricted gameplay with its countless innovations and unique features, unity with its revolutionary multi-character format, and friendship with its promising faction and colony systems. All of these contribute to this "Age of Exploration"-themed MMORPG's unparalleled gaming experience.

In line with this, IP Interactive, the official distributor of Granado Espada in the Philippines held its first ever Granado Espada (G.E.) Guild Event letting online game guild leaders and players try out a special game preview of G.E. The event emphasized the importance of factions in G.E. Factions are the guilds in Granado Espada, which are groups of families allied together for a common cause. This is the primary reason why players were invited to the event through their guilds.

"Although the MCC system is a great innovation that makes this game really stand out, we would also like to stress that the good old-fashioned guild systems are still very much welcome in this game," said Annaise Fragante, IP Interactive Project Manager for Granado Espada. "The game is loaded with very strong monsters that may overpower a single player so having an ally with you is really a big plus.” It’s essential that gamers ally themselves with other players to beat high-level monsters.

Future patches will highlight faction-only events, like the Colony Wars, which will pit factions against one another in a battle to take over a whole gamezone.

"This is one of the best features of the game,” said Ivee Feria, Product Manager for G.E. "It lets you explore the whole world by yourself but at the same time reminds you that alliances and friendships are equally important to survive. The game definitely lives up to its motto of freedom, unity, and friendship."

The game is currently at its International Closed Beta version, where the Philippines is only one of many countries interacting in the game in real time. Filipinos get to play with players from other countries, or even Filipino players abroad.

"At this point, you can say that we're bringing the Filipino gamer closer to the international community," says Fragante.

Filipina: Ehra Madrigal

2007-03-09T17:58:00.000-08:00

Biography

Name: Ehra Madrigal

Nickname: Ehra

Birthday: June 25, 1985

Birth Place: Quezon City, Philippines

Showbiz Anniversary: November 29, 2004

Favorites

Hobbies: Going to the gym, Malling, Watching TV and movies, Surfing the net.

Movie: Passion of Christ, 50 First Dates, The Notebook, Troy, Spiderman 1 and 2 and a whole lot more.

TV Show: The O.C, Sex and the City, Fear Factor, Iron Chef, MTV, ETC Channel, Lifestyle Network.

Singers: Akafellas, Vince and Duncan of Southborder, Rico B. of Rivermaya, Bamboo of Bamboo, Ely B. of Eraserheads, Lindsay Lohan, Spice Girls, Usher, Beyonce Knowles.

Song: "Tanging Bituin", "Balisong", "Imposible", "214", and "With a Smile"Music: OPM Bands such as Rivermaya, Bamboo, Eraserheads, R&B, Pop, Hip-Hop, Chill-Out, Trance. As long as it’s not punk or heavy metal.

Book: The Notebook, Tuesdays with Morrie, Purpose Driven Life, The Alchemist, and Angels and Demons.

Author: Nicholas Sparks and Paulo Coelho.

Expression: Whatever, Kamusta naman yun and Pasaway.

Actors/Actresses

Local: Jericho Rosales and Maricel Soriano

Foreign: Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

Full Name: Geralyn Madrigal Gaspar

Adjectives that best describe you: Shy, down to earth, “koboy”

Fashion: I’m usually in jeans or cropped pants, tank top or vintage shirts and flip-flops or chucks. But when I go gimmick, I really dress up

Fashion icon: Lindsay Lohan

Most treasured item: My cellphone, ipod and pictures and letters of loved ones.

Pet Peeves: Mareklamo… Someone who thinks highly of themselves. And yung masyadong maarte.

Fears: Losing my loved ones. Not being able to achieve something. That people will just forget me.

Unforgettable childhood memory: Playing patintero and tumbang preso with my cousins in Bulacan. Sobrang riot yun. Ang kulit!Goals: To lose 10-15 pounds this year. To have more “rakets”. To finish my studies. To improve my acting abilities and to be able to touch other people’s life through my work even in a little way.

Role Model: My Mom

Hollywood: Pictures 6

2007-03-02T20:41:00.000-08:00

Acer Ultra Small PC

2007-03-02T20:36:00.000-08:00

Acer, recently released a new line of “ultra small form-factor” PCs: the Acer Aspire L310, the Acer Power 1000 and the Acer Power 2000.

The new line of Acer Ultra small PCs is 90 percent smaller and 75 percent lighter than conventional tower desktops. The Acer Power 2000 and Aspire L310 are powered by Intel Core 2 Duo processors over Intel Express chipsets and complemented by an L2 memory cache.

The AcerPower 1000 comes with AMD processors, from the Sempron to AMD Athlon 64 X2.

These three CPUs have DDR II SDRAM memory upgradeable to 2GB, 80GB up to 400GB SATA hard drives and an integrated 7.1 channel surround sound, high-definition audio. The Acer Power 2000 and Aspire L310 both carry Intel GMA 3000 while the AcerPower 1000 carries the NVIDIA GeForce 6150 graphics card.

Just like all the other PCs in the Acer product range, all three carry the trademark Acer Empowering Technology that practically enhances the way people use their PCs. And complemented by Acer’s world-class technical support system, the Acer Power 2000, the Aspire L310, and AcerPower 1000 are expected to set a new trend in the compact CPU space.

For details on how to get hold of the Aspire L310, and the AcerPower 1000 and 2000, contact your nearest Acer reseller and find out for yourself how they can change the way you do your business.

Filipina: Katrina Halili

2007-03-02T19:47:00.000-08:00

Biography

Complete Name: Ma. Katrina Irene Halili

Nickname: Kat, Cheque

Birthdate: January 4, 1986

Birthplace: Quezon City

Favorites

Hobbies: Listening to music, watching TV

Sports: Volleyball, swimming, badminton

Movies: A Walk to Remember, Dahil Mahal na Mahal Kita
TV Shows: Forever in My Heart, Joyride
Singers: Regine V., Janno G., Ogie Alcasid Song: "Kailangan Kita "
Music: Sentimental rock
Book: Noli Me Tangere
Author: Jose P. Rizal
Expression: Ngeekk/ngek

Actors/Actresses

Local: Regine V., Richard Gomez, Claudine Baretto

Foreign: Jennifer Lopez

Interesting Facts

She is part-Chinese, a fact that she has mentioned in several of her interviews.She has posed twice on FHM-Philippines: October 2006 and December 2005

Although born in Quezon City, she grew up in Palawan where she joined a province-wide beauty contest, representing the municipality of El Nido.

Hollywood: Pictures 5

2007-02-23T21:39:00.000-08:00

IT Shoptalk

2007-02-23T21:24:00.000-08:00

We’re sure that you readers have had experiences of looking for either a whole PC package (hardware components) the whole day and ended up getting frustrated. So, what’s the difference among computer shops that you know of? It may either be a mixture of computer peripherals, mobile phones, and other services. But when it comes to computer peripherals, you may want to visit Octagon Computers for they have a lot.

Octagon SM Mall of Asia branch officer Mr. Pedro Bacar, Jr. shared with us their marketing strategy and some of the products that are doing well in their shop. Customers going to their branch will be surprised with the variety of multimedia accessories like headphones, speaker systems, and CD media.

“We’re now focused on marketing laptop notebooks to our customers,” he said. “Our products include Acer, Neo, Compaq and Presario. Among those brands, the most saleable is the Presario. We also sell branded and clone desktops, but the Acer desktops leads that category.”

Bacar also revealed that most customers seek Core 2 Duo processors. “Most of our regular clientele seek the latest and the fastest desktops available with us,” he added. “They are focused on having computers with multi-tasking capabilities, and at the same time, real value for their money.”

Wireless PCMCIA cards, wireless routers and access points are also becoming a hot commodity since most customers don’t like getting tied up with a lot of cords with their computers. The ease of having wireless connectivity is that it is ready-to-use after being installed

Octagon also carries digital audio players. Bacar said that the Creative MP3 player series are currently the most sought-after digital audio player by audiophiles (which is the same revelation from one of the previous stores we’ve featured).

“The most saleable printers for us are the mid-range level printers of Canon, HP, Epson and Brother. Most of our consumers buy them for home use. Aside from the end-users, other clients include office employees,” he said.

So far, Octagon is the only shop we’ve seen to carry a small selection of laptop bags and sleeves by Belkin, Sony Vaio, Manhattan, Exagerate and elecom.

The thing about Octagon is that they don’t just sell, but also give much emphasis on educating their clientele. “We always ask our customers what are their needs and requirements for their PC, laptop, or any peripheral that they want to buy,” Bacar said. “Our staff explains to the customer, gives them choices, and advises them on what package is recommended based on their requirements. The price is what some people are always aware of. But when we thoroughly explain to them about it, they consider our recommendations and eventually buy the IT products. It doesn’t en there also because we have after sales service and support on all our branches nationwide (we have about 80). We are ready to support them with all their needs even if they come from the provinces.”

Filipina: Karel Marquez

2007-02-23T21:17:00.000-08:00

Biography

Real name: Karla Ysabel Marquez Santos
Nickname: Karel, Karl, Kaye, Reli, Penoy
BirthDate: December 21, 1986
BirthPlace: Manila
Star Sign: Sagittarius
Height: 5'3"
Weight: 95 llbs
Ethnic origin: Mixed Race
Siblings: 2
Profession: Freshmen at Thames - Comms. tv & ads. - VJ - Reporter

Hollywood: Pictures 4

2007-02-16T18:49:00.000-08:00

BI Now Becomes Obsession of Oracle

2007-02-16T18:43:00.001-08:00

After its acquisition spree, which included those of business software makers PeopleSoft and Siebel, database magnate Oracle Corp. is now using its market size to promote its own business intelligence (BI) capabilities.

BI, the hottest thing in the enterprise market right now, has become the favorite "value-added" proposition among IT solution vendors such as SAS Institute and GreenPlum, a greenhorn database company.

Put simply, BI systems help companies have a more comprehensive knowledge of the factors affecting their business. As the term implies, it provides intelligence to the business as opposed to the current platform where technology is only a system and does think.

It is for this reason, according to Oracle, that companies are now looking to integrate BI in their systems to better respond to challenges and enhance customer satisfaction.

The opportunity in this area, according to research firm IDC, is so huge that "a new wave of investment in BI applications will appear as demand grows for BI for the masses."

Oracle is so convinced on BI that it has actually appointed a general manager for BI in Asia Pacific region in the person of Ricky Kapur. He was in the country recently to give a media briefing together with Oracle Philippines managing director Francis Ong.

During the briefing, the executives cited a Gartner report which said that Oracle is now the fastest growing stand-alone BI platform vendor in Asia Pacific.
Based on the report, Oracle registered 64.8-percent revenue growth in Asia Pacific in 2005, compared to the previous year.

Another Gartner survey, on the other hand, put BI as the top choice of CIOs in the area of technology priorities, outranking traditional issues such as security and mobile workforce enablement.

Based on the Gartner study, Oracle claimed it currently owns 14 percent of the BI market globally -- the biggest share among vendors. As for the local market, there are no data available for revenue potential although the Redwood, California-based database giant is bullish about it prospects here.

One of the main advantages that Oracle brings to the table, the company said, is its "leading position" in business analytics software and data warehousing tools. This, it said, gives it the perfect position to converge both systems to "empower users through the democratization of BI."

Unlike SAS, which is currently one of the leading BI vendors, Kapur said Oracle’s BI tools offer open scalability. "Their (SAS) BI also is based on analytical applications. On the other hand, Oracle has pre-built and imbedded analytics. No other vendor has the same breadth of offerings."

The only area, Kapur said, that SAS can effectively compete with Oracle is in "departmental applications." "But those are very simple applications that other vendors can also offer."

Angelina Jolie

2007-02-16T18:26:00.000-08:00

Biography

Birth Name: Angelina Jolie Voight

Nickname: Angie, Catwoman, Ange, AJ

Height: 5' 8" (1.73 m)

Growing up in Los Angeles, Jolie was no stranger to the film industry, being the daughter of Academy Award-winning actor Jon Voight. She later trained and performed at the Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, where she was seen in several stage productions.She worked as a professional model in London, New York and Los Angeles, and has also appeared in music videos for such artists as 'Meatloaf', Lenny Kravitz, Antonello Venditti and The Lemonheads. In addition, she has acted in five student films for the USC School of Cinema, all directed by her brother, James Haven.

Hollywood: Pictures 3

2007-02-09T22:47:00.000-08:00

Elle 'Desperate For A Date'

2007-02-09T22:46:00.001-08:00

Despite being known as 'The Body' around the world it seems supermodel Elle MacPherson is just like every other girl and struggles to find dates.

The Australian beauty is desperate for a man in her life but admits that she never gets any offers because men never try to chat her up.

Elle said: 'It's crazy - but apart from a brief romantic intermission last summer, I have been single and celibate for two years.'

She added that she feels 'boring' but it is not through want of trying as the model does sometimes take the initiative to approach men herself.

She said: 'I'm a hopeless flirt.

'I'll go up to a guy and say, 'I think you are so beautiful,' but it doesn't work.'

The star is in desperate need of a date now because she is celebrating a legal victory against Hello magazine who published pictures of her sunbathing on a Mustique beach last year.

Jenna Jameson

2007-02-09T22:18:00.000-08:00

Jenna Jameson Biography

Name: Jenna Jameson

Birth Name: Jenna Marie Massoli

Date of Birth: April 9, 1974

Place of Birth: Las Veges, Nevada, USA

Height: 5' 6

Nationality: American

Profession: Actor/Model

Her father is a retired police officer, her late mother was a showgirl.

Both worked in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Lived with Nikki Tyler. [2000]

Engaged to Justin Sterling. [2000]

Has been engaged twice since her divorce from Brad Armstrong, but has yet to marry a second time.

Has only one other sibling, a brother who is three years older.Jenna Jameson and Hugh Hefner share the same birthday (April 9th).

When Jenna was two years old, her mother was diagnosed with skin cancer and died shortly thereafter.

She changed her name to Jameson after seeing the name on a brand of liquor.

She co-wrote (with Neil Strauss) "How To Make Love Like a Porn Star: A Cautionary Tale," a best-selling (and graphic) autobiography.Has her husband's name tattooed on the ring finger of her right hand.

Jenna was born and raised in Las Vegas by her father, and by the time she was 18, the bright lights were already drawing her in. She studied ballet as a student, but it was stripping that started Jenna on her road to superstardom. Dancing led to nude modeling, and by her 20th birthday Jenna had appeared in dozens of top men's mags, including Penthouse, Hustler, High Society and Cheri.

A visit to a porn set piqued Jenna's interest in a hardcore career, and Wicked Pictures signed her to an exclusive contract after a bidding war. It took only a few releases for Jenna to become the most popular young starlet around. She catapulted to the top of the porn heap, and in 1996 she scored an unprecedented triple crown by taking home the XRCO Best New Starlet, the F.O.X.E. Video Vixen and the AVN Best New Starlet awards. Jenna has been branching out into more mainstream projects lately, including a featured role in Howard Stern's Private Parts (1997) film. She remains one of the most popular pornstresses in the industry today

Hollywood: Pictures 2

2007-02-02T22:07:00.000-08:00

Lohan Family - On Vacation

2007-02-02T21:55:00.000-08:00

Forget work! Lindsay Lohan is going on vacation.

I've just learned that the rehabbing Ms. Lohan will be jetting off to Italy not long after completing her treatment. But it's no party-hopping getaway. She'll be in Europe with mom Dina, sister Ali and brother Dakota.

"Dakota has a soccer game there, so they're all going to see him play," a source reports.

I'm told the Lohans will extend their stay for some family alone-time.

As first reported by TMZ, the 20-year-old starlet has dropped out of Woman of No Importance, an upcoming feature film costarring Annette Bening and directed by Bruce Beresford.

Let's just hope this vacation doesn't include the drama that Ms. Lohan had the last time she went to Italy.

In September, she and then boyfriend Harry Morton flew to England from Venice, where Lohan was promoting Bobby at the Venice Film Festival. After landing at London's Heathrow Airport, Lohan's orange Hermès bag, containing jewelry and asthma medication, went missing. Fortunately, the bag—containing all her valuables—was found and returned to the actress within twenty-four hours.

Lohan's rep, Leslie Sloane-Zelnick, could not confirm the upcoming trip. However, she said Lohan is expected to be quite busy in April promoting Georgia Rules, a drama costarring Jane Fonda and Felicity Huffman. The movie, directed by Garry Marshall, opens in May.

"She's got many press commitments coming up for Georgia Rules," Sloane-Zelnick said.

In late April, Lohan is expected to start shooting The Best Times of Our Lives opposite Keira Knightley in London.

Asked how Lohan is doing, Sloane-Zelnick said, "She's on set today, and she's doing great."

Lohan is undergoing rehab treatment at night while spending days completing the drama, I Know Who Killed Me.

Tea Time

2007-02-02T21:42:00.000-08:00

Wallpapers : Hot Wheels

2007-01-27T00:32:00.000-08:00

Before They Were Stars

2007-01-27T00:23:00.000-08:00

Before They Were Stars

Deciding what you want to be when you grow up can be difficult. And even if you're set on being rich and famous, having something to fall back on can't hurt.While it's hard to imagine pop culture without these icons, here's a look at some celebrities' career aspirations before they made it big:

When comedian and former "Saturday Night Live" cast member Will Ferrell graduated from the University of Southern California with a degree in sports information, he took a job as a sportscaster on a weekly cable show. But he found that his calling was in acting and stand-up comedy. He later played a newscaster on the big screen in "Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy."

Eva Longoria attended Texas A&M-Kingsville, graduating with a degree in kinesiology. After graduating, she entered a talent contest, went to Los Angeles and was signed by an agent. After stints on soaps including "General Hospital," "Beverly Hills, 90210" and "The Young and the Restless," Eva Longoria landed a role as Gabrielle Solis, on the popular television series, "Desperate Housewives."

Instead of joining his father's oil business, Matthew McConaughey attended the University of Texas in Austin intending to become a lawyer. He reportedly changed his major to acting after discovering an Og Mandino book "The Greatest Salesman in the World" and girls all over the world have been swooning since.

After being discovered by an agent in a pizza parlor when she was 11 years old, Natalie Portman began a career in modeling, which she later bypassed to concentrate on acting. Her role as Queen Amidala in "Star Wars: Episode I -- The Phantom Menace" and Oscar-nominated role in "Closer" heightened her status as a Hollywood star. She took time off to study at Harvard University in Boston, Massachusetts, majoring in psychology. Although she intends to continue acting, she also plans to practice psychology.

Before becoming an Academy Award-nominated actress and successful hip hop artist, Queen Latifah (a.k.a. Dana Owens) studied broadcast journalism at Borough of Manhattan Community College. She considered pursuing a career either a newscaster or a lawyer.

Denzel Washington attended Fordham University to pursue a career in journalism before getting involved in student drama productions and being drawn into acting. He finished his degree and moved to San Francisco attending the American Conservatory Theater for one year before pursuing acting work and later earning multiple awards.

"Charlie's Angels" star, Lucy Liu attended New York University before transferring to the University of Michigan where she graduated with a major in Asian Languages. During her last year of college, she landed the lead role for her school's production of "Alice in Wonderland" that launched her career in acting.

Before Benicio del Toro was in "Traffic" and "Sin City," he studied business at the University of California at San Diego. Although his father wanted him to become a lawyer, del Toro secretly changed his major to acting and later dropped out to study the craft in New York City. Before playing a Harvard law student in "Legally Blonde," Reese Witherspoon attended Stanford University, majoring in English literature. The actress took a hiatus from her educational pursuits to take on roles for the movies "Freeway" and "Fear," and eventually earned an Oscar in 2006 for Best Actress in "Walk the Line."

Years before he played the piano in "Pretty Woman" and tap dancing in "Chicago," Richard Gere attended the University of Massachusetts in Amherst on a gymnastics scholarship. He studied philosophy, but dropped out of school after two years to pursue acting with the Seattle Repertory Theatre and New York's Provincetown Playhouse.

Hollywood: Pictures 1

2007-01-27T00:09:00.000-08:00

Six Wheel Car

2007-01-20T21:27:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year in Your Language

2007-01-20T21:23:00.000-08:00

Afgani
Saale Nao Mubbarak

Afrikaans
Gelukkige nuwe jaar

Albanian
Gezuar Vitin e Ri

Armenian
Snorhavor Nor Tari

Arabic
Antum salimoun

Assyrian
Sheta Brikhta

Azeri
Yeni Iliniz Mubarek!

Bengali
Shuvo Nabo Barsho

Bulgarian
×åñòèòà Íîâà Ãîäèíà(pronounced "Chestita Nova Godina")

Cambodian
Soursdey Chhnam Tmei

Catalan
FELIÇ ANY NOU

Chinese
Xin Nian Kuai Le

Corsican Language
Pace e Salute

Croatian
Sretna Nova godina!

Cymraeg (Welsh)
Blwyddyn Newydd Dda

Czechoslovakia
Scastny Novy Rok

Denish
Godt Nytår

Dhivehi
Ufaaveri Aa Aharakah Edhen

Dutch
GELUKKIG NIEUWJAAR!

Eskimo
Kiortame pivdluaritlo

Esperanto
Felican Novan Jaron

Estonians
Head uut aastat!

Finnish
Onnellista Uutta Vuotta

French
Bonne Annee

Gaelic
Bliadhna mhath ur

Galician [NorthWestern Spain]
Bo Nadal e Feliz Aninovo

German
Prosit Neujahr

Greek
Kenourios Chronos

Gujarati
Nutan Varshbhinandan

Hawaiian
Hauoli Makahiki Hou

Hebrew
L'Shannah Tovah

Hindi
Naye Varsha Ki Shubhkamanyen

Hong kong
(Cantonese) Sun Leen Fai Lok

Hungarian
Boldog Ooy Ayvet

Indonesian
Selamat Tahun Baru

Iranian
Saleh now mobarak

Iraqi
Sanah Jadidah

Irish
Bliain nua fe mhaise dhuit

Italian:
Felice anno nuovo

Japan:
Akimashite Omedetto Gozaimasu

Kabyle:
Asegwas Amegaz

Kannada:
Hosa Varushadha Shubhashayagalu

Kisii:
SOMWAKA OMOYIA OMUYA

Khmer:
Sua Sdei tfnam tmei

Korea:
Saehae Bock Mani ba deu sei yo!

Kurdish:
NEWROZ PIROZBE

Lithuanian:
Laimingu Naujuju Metu

Laotian:
Sabai dee pee mai

Macedonian
Srekjna Nova Godina

Malay
Selamat Tahun Baru

Marathi :
Nveen Varshachy Shubhechcha

Malayalam :
Puthuvatsara Aashamsakal

Maltese
Is-Sena t- Tajba

Nepal
Nawa Barsha ko Shuvakamana

Norwegian
Godt Nyttår

Papua New Guinea
Nupela yia i go long yu

Pampango (Philippines)
Masaganang Bayung Banua

persian
Saleh now ra tabrik migouyam

Philippines
Manigong Bagong Taon

Polish:
Szczesliwego Nowego Roku

Portuguese
Feliz Ano Novo

Punjabi
Nave sal di mubarak

Romanian
AN NOU FERICIT

Russian
S Novim Godom

Samoa
Manuia le Tausaga Fou

Serbo-Croatian
Sretna nova godina

Sindhi
Nayou Saal Mubbarak Hoje

Singhalese
Subha Aluth Awrudhak Vewa

siraiki
Nawan Saal Shala Mubarak Theevay

Slovak
A stastlivy Novy Rok

Slovenian
sreèno novo leto

Somali
Iyo Sanad Cusub Oo Fiican!

Spanish
Feliz Ano ~Nuevo

Swahili
Heri Za Mwaka Mpyaº

Swedish
GOTT NYTT ÅR! /Gott nytt år!

Sudanese
Warsa Enggal

Tamil
Eniya Puthandu Nalvazhthukkal

Telugu
Noothana samvatsara shubhakankshalu

Thai
Sawadee Pee Mai

Turkish
Yeni Yiliniz Kutlu Olsun

Ukrainian
Shchastlyvoho Novoho Roku

Urdu
Naya Saal Mubbarak Ho

Uzbek
Yangi Yil Bilan

Vietnamese
Chuc Mung Tan Nien

Welsh :
Blwyddyn Newydd Dda!

Hollywood Celebrities

2007-01-20T21:12:00.000-08:00

Nokia 888

2007-01-13T02:16:00.000-08:00

Horoscope Test

2007-01-13T01:22:00.000-08:00

Horoscope Test...

If you are honest this tells the truth - it's pretty good

Write your answers on a piece of paper. No cheating !!

The answers are at the bottom of this page.

1. Write the name of a person of the opposite sex.

2. Which is your favorite color out of red, black, blue, green, yellow?

3. Your first initial?

4. Your month of birth?

5. Which color do you like more, black or white?

6. Name of a person of the same sex as yours.

7. Your favorite number?

8. Do you like Sydney or Brisbane more?

9. Do you like a lake or the ocean more?

10. Write down a wish (a realistic one).

When you're done, scroll down. (Don't cheat)

Answers

1. You are completely in love with this person.

2. If you choose: Red - You are alert and your life is full of love. Black - you are conservative and aggressive. Green - your soul is relaxed and you are laid back Blue - you are spontaneous and love kisses and affection from the ones you love. Yellow- you are a very happy person and give good advice to those who are down.

3. If your initial is: A-K You have a lot of love to give in friendships in your life. L-R You try to enjoy your life to the maximum and your love life is soon to blossom. S-Z You like to help others and your future love life looks very good.

4. If you were born in: Jan-Mar: The year will go very well for you and you will discover that you fall in love with someone totally unexpected. April-June: You will have a strong love relationship that will last long and the memories will last forever. July-Sep: You will have a great year and will experience a major life-changing experience for the good. Oct-Dec: Your love life will not be too great, but eventually you will find your soul mate.

5. If you chose..... Black: Your life will take on a different direction, it will be the best thing for you, and you will be glad for the change. White: You will have a friend who completely confides in you and would do anything for you, but you may not realize it.

6. This person is your best friend.

7. This is how many close friends you have in your lifetime.

8. If you chose: Sydney: You like adventure. Brisbane: You are a laid back person.

9. If you chose: Lake: You are loyal to your friends and your lover and are very reserved. Ocean: You are spontaneous and like to please people.

10. This wish will come true only if you send this to five people in one hour. Send it to ten people, and it will come true before your next birthday!

Celebrity: Elisha Cuthbert

2007-01-13T01:13:00.000-08:00

Birth Place: Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Date of Birth: November 30, 1982

Heritage: Canadian

Famous for: Her role as Kim Bauer on Fox's 24

Elisha Cuthbert's beauty is stunning and she is earning fans by the masses. Playing Kiefer Sutherland's daughter, Kim Bauer, in Fox's real-time drama "24" stepped her up before the magical spotlight, but beauty, talent and dedication keeps her there. After all, how many actresses do you know can boast they have been attacked by a cougar while shooting a TV series ("24")? Elisha said, "My stunt double was petting the animal, so I put my hand out to stroke it and it bit me, it almost ripped my thumb off. I was rushed to hospital with two puncture wounds, one of which went right through my hand, I had a brace on my hand for five weeks and now I'm left with a cool scar." Scar or not, Elisha Cuthbert may be the epitome of Beauty and the Beast. "I believe not giving up on doing things."

Celebrity: Mariah Carey

2006-12-29T21:15:00.001-08:00

Recover Ur Happiness

2006-12-29T20:48:00.000-08:00

A - Accept

Accept others for who they are and for the choices they've made even if you have difficulty understanding their
beliefs, motives, or actions.

B - Break Away

Break away from everything that stands in the way of what you hope to accomplish with your life.

C - Create

Create a family of friends whom you can share your hopes, dreams, sorrows, and happiness with.

D - Decide

Decide that you'll be successful and happy come what may, and good things will find you. The roadblocks are only minor obstacles along the way.

E - Explore

Explore and experiment. The world has much to offer, and you have much to give. And every time you try something new, you'll learn more about yourself.

F - Forgive

Forgive and forget. Grudges only weigh you down and inspire unhappiness and grief. Soar above it, and remember that everyone makes mistakes.

G - Grow

Leave the childhood monsters behind. They can no longer hurt you or stand in your way.

H - Hope

Hope for the best and never forget that anything is possible as long as you remain dedicated to the task.

I - Ignore

Ignore the negative voice inside your head. Focus instead on your goals and remember your accomplishments. Your past success is only a small inkling of what the future holds.

J - Journey

Journey to new worlds, new possibilities, by remaining open-minded. Try to learn something new every day, and you'll grow.

K - Know

Know that no matter how bad things seem, they'll always get better. The warmth of spring always follows the harshest winter.

L - Love

Let love fill your heart instead of hate. When hate is in your heart, there's room for nothing else, but when love is in your heart, there's room for endless happiness.

M - Manage

Manage your time and your expenses wisely, and you'll suffer less stress and worry. Then you'll be able to focus on the important things in life.

N - Notice

Never ignore the poor, infirm, helpless, weak, or suffering. Offer your assistance when possible, and always your kindness and understanding.

O - Open

Open your eyes and take in all the beauty around you. Even during the worst of times, there's still muc h to be thankful for.

P - Play

Never forget to have fun along the way. Success means nothing without happiness.

Q - Question

Ask many questions, because you're here to learn.

R - Relax

Refuse to let worry and stress rule your life, and remember that things always have a way of working out in the end.

S - Share

Share your talent, skills, knowledge, and time with others. Everything that you invest in others will return to you many times over.

T - Try

Even when your dreams seem impossible to reach, try anyway. You'll be amazed by what you can accomplish.

U - Use

Use your gifts to your best ability. Talent that's wasted has no value. Talent that's used will bring unexpected rewards.

V - Value

Value the friends and family members who've supported and encouraged you, and be there for them as well.

W - Work

Work hard every day to be the best person you can b e, but never feel guilty if you fall short of your goals. Every sunrise offers a second chance.

X - X-Ray

Look deep inside the hearts of those around you and you'll see the goodness and beauty within.

Y - Yield

Yield to commitment. If you stay on track and remain dedicated, you'll find success at the end of the road.

Z - Zoom

Zoom to a happy place when bad memories or sorrow rears its ugly head. Let nothing interfere with your goals. Instead, focus on your abilities, your dreams, and a brighter tomorrow.

Horoscope: On Temper

2006-12-23T01:22:00.000-08:00

ARIES MARCH 21 – APRIL 20

Nothing seems to ruffle you more than a lack of discipline, disloyalty and decorum. But Arians are also known to go into a rage very easily when challenged. Those of you who have been on the receiving end of the Aries temper know that if not calmed down they can even get violent. But one thing is certain if the opponent remains calm and does not react to their outburst, Arians cool down very fast. They are also the first to apologize, which makes them easier to forgive.

TAURUS APRIL 21 – MAY 20

You are generally quiet and have control over your emotions. It is difficult to predict what will upset you, so when you do lose your cool, people don't know how to react. Your temper is like that of a raging bull, and anyone trying to pacify you will be the first one to get a verbal bashing. You generally get upset when you are concerned or when people accuse you of doing something wrong. You also hate being reminded about mistakes you've made in the past. You also have the potential to be terribly vindictive if rubbed the wrong way.

GEMINI MAY 21 – June 29

You are recognised by your cheerful disposition and your jovial nature is easily susceptible to anger. In fact, you are the best person to have around when there is an ugly scene at a party you can bring the warring factions together quite diplomatically. But when you lose cool, you yell and scream and will not listen to reason. You must have the last word in a wordy duel. Your capacity to argue aggressively is matched only by your seductive charm.

CANCER JUNE 21 – JULY 21

Considering how charming, caring and kind you are, you dislike unpleasant scenes, much less creating one yourself. You have great tolerance and rarely get provoked into losing your temper. If someone is unreasonable or trying to create trouble, you are more likely to walk away quietly. But that does not mean you do not have a temper. When angry, in your effort to control your emotions, you tremble, your hands get sweaty and sometimes you fumble for words. Tears roll down your eyes easily and the opponent is touched by your innocence and will seek an apology immediately.

LEO JULY 22 – AUGUST 21

If anyone has total control over their emotions, it is you. But then, you can be described as stiff, cold and uncaring. You are known to lack spontaneity but you really don't care about opinions. You don't like to create scenes and will never accept invitations to a party where you suspect the presence of an unruly lot. But your very presence seems challenging to some and they take vicarious pleasure in your disquiet. When angry you can use critical language. A dressing down can humiliate your opponent, causing a strain between both of you forever.

VIRGO AUGUST 22 – SEPTEMBER 21

Most of you are gentle and have full control over your emotions but those of you given to temper tantrums can certainly get violent. When see things with rage, you yell and shout and tend to break things lying close at hand. You can even harm yourself by banging your hands on a glass top table or wall. You should never get into any argument, for you are a sore loser. You feel that others are trying to persecute you and don't quite respect your opinions. When hurt, you can also hold grudges forever.

LIBRA SEPTEMBER 22 – OCTOBER 22

Did someone say that you are the charmers of the zodiac? Well, it's true. Few have ever seen you ruffled or angry. You are very conscious of your image, and you believe that anger distorts your face and personality. You also think you are above things like anger. But wait before you get into self-congratulatory mood. Your family or those very close to you know you better. You have an unmatched temper amongst all the zodiac signs, and what makes it worse is your capacity to justify it.

SCORPIO OCTOBER 23 – NOVEMBER 21

Of course you don't lose your cool. But your very demeanor (manner) projects haughtiness (arrogance, pride), pride and grand disdain (disregard) for lesser mortals (human). Others are often found saying that anger sits on your nose and you are raring to give your piece mind to the first person who try to be funny with you. You are selective in the choice of your friends, and have a low tolerance for the superfluous (extra) types. Your tongue-lashing (attack) is generally in a soft hissing tone for when you scream, your voice tends to get shrill and loud and you do hate drawing attention to yourself! When upset, you are angrier with yourself for having shown weakness, for the last thing that Scorpio wants to show is being out of control.

SAGITTARIUS (NOVEMBER 22 – DECEMBER 20)

You are insensible and generally have no complete control over your emotions. You do get angry quickly and others marvel at your anger levels even when provoked. Actually, you get tongue-tied when angry and you will remove your anger waiting for the other person to calm down. Then you will reason with your opponent and convince the other person in a very gentle manner that the whole thing was just his mistake. You're also likely to totally sever ties with someone when you're upset with them.

CAPRICORN (DECEMBER 21 – JANUARY 19)

Few will believe that a hardcore practical and materialistic person like you is capable of sensitivity and genuine emotions. You project a hard exterior but are actually very sensitive, a trait you successfully hide from others. You can see thing with anger but will not betray your feelings. But then, there are times that even you cannot control your temper. Under such circumstances you can shout and scream, more with frustration at the situation than with anger at any particular person. Your outbursts can shock others and can make them feel guilty too.

AQUARIUS (JANUARY 20 – FEBRUARY 18)

You are noble and kind and dislike losing control over your emotions. It is very rare for you to get angry. You are also the pacifier in situations that involve arguments. It is always your endeavor to be perfect and socially correct in your behavior and attitude, but if misunderstood and slighted you can give in to an angry outburst. You will shout and scream and then walk out from the scene. You cannot easily forget the situation and will be bitter about it for a long time.

PISCES (FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 20)

The only thing that can be said about you dreamers is that you appear even more attractive when angry. You are very sensitive to others' feelings, so you rarely hurt them. But when others tend to hurt you, then things take a nasty turn. You will yell and use harsh words and feel inclined to shake everything and everyone up. Your creative imagination is at its best when angry, and you tend to get pretty dramatic. When upset, you refuse to listen to reason and wish to be left alone. But once you calm down, you repent your tantrums and seek forgiveness. SO nobody can be upset with you for too long.

Bollywood Chillies

2006-12-16T18:25:00.000-08:00