2013年1月31日星期四

Bianca Jagger claims lost ring she told police was worth £160,000 is now worth just £15,000 'to avoid paying finder £8,000'

Bianca Jagger is facing a court battle after refusing to pay an £8,000 reward to a man who found her ring in the street.
The former wife of Rolling Stones singer Mick Jagger lost the diamond and platinum ring when it fell off her finger when she was in Austria for the Salzburg music festival in 2008.
Reinhard Fingler, who found the ring, claims Miss Jagger, 67, is making a ‘blatant attempt’ to cheat him out of a proper reward.
Under Austrian law he would be entitled to £8,000, 5 per cent of the £160,000 that she claimed in her police report it was worth.
But she now says she made a mistake about the value and is offering £800.
Mr Fingler has begun a legal action to make her pay £8,000. Miss Jagger has a jeweller’s appraisal to present to a court in Salzburg next Tuesday valuing the ring at £15,000.
Fingler picked the platinum, diamond and sapphire sparkler up in the street.

His attorney Alexander Schuberth said: ‘This is outrageous. I find this claim both bizarre and spurious.
‘Where Jagger got the value of the ring as £160,000 seems to be a mystery as she’s never appeared in court for us to be able to ask her.’
Jagger’s claim that she did not know the value of the ring has raised eyebrows in the elite world of high-end jewellery as her daughter Jade is a gem designer.
Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger And Bianca Jagger Pictured Together On Their Wedding Day In 1971
Ex: Rolling Stones frontman Mick Jagger And Bianca Jagger Pictured Together On Their Wedding Day In 1971
'It seems beyond belief that she could get the value so wrong. Her daughter makes her living designing and selling jewellery', added the lawyer.
The prestigious Viennese lawfirm of Lansky, Ganzger & partners represents Miss Jagger and did not comment on the alleged lower value of the ring.
Fingler, from Salzburg, initially gave the ring to his daughter thinking it was a trinket, but handed it in eight days later and claimed the reward.
Left: Mick Jagger in full swing at a show in London in 1973
Jade Jagger
Mick Jagger in full swing at a show in London in 1973 and the couple's daughter, jewellery designer Jade (right)
It has emerged that back in October 2008, after it was found, Miss Jagger offered to give Mr Fingler
€1,000 and transfer €9,000 to Amnesty International, an arrangement he declared to be unacceptable.

Judge Friedrich Gruber at the State Court Salzburg will decide next Tuesday whether Austria has the right to hear the case as Ms Jagger has her main residence in London.

Theme Charms And Charm Bracelets For A Unique Person



Although most charm bracelets are a rather uncategorized collection of assorted charms developed over the years, there is no rule that says this is how they have to be. These collections of charms can be very attractive, but there are other options.

A less often considered but just as meaningful type of bracelet is one that uses charms all from the same theme. In other words the complete bracelet is used to express the wearer's interest, abilities, accomplishments or special events around that one particular theme.

It is always easiest to complete a theme or concept type of charm bracelet if the person you are buying for has a real focus or area of interest in her life. Since many people have more than one interest it may be important to prioritize and only select two high priority interest areas to use on the bracelet. It may be difficult to find charms for some areas of interest that would fill a complete bracelet so expanding a bit may be the best idea.

One of the common focuses for a theme bracelet and selection of charms is the woman's career or professional experience. These bracelets and charms can be either gold or silver or a combination of both. Those working in the field of academics would appreciate charms that symbolize students, the workplace and other related themes.

World travelers or those that enjoy cars, boats or even airplanes would certainly love to receive a theme charm bracelet in this subject matter. Old, antique vehicles, rowboats and sailboats and even bicycles could all be added to the bracelet.

One very popular collection of charms that is perfect for a theme bracelet is for those women that enjoy gardening and flowers. Charms that depict various types of flowers, plants and trees are a great way to show both your knowledge of their interest and appreciation for nature's gifts and beauty.


Chelsee Healey is overcome with emotion as she joins a group of children on arduous school walk during Comic Relief Challenge

She embarked on the biggest challenge of her life just two days ago alongside Dara O’Briain, Melanie C, Jack Dee, Phillips Idowu and Greg James.
And as the third day of The BT Red Nose Challenge: Hell and High Water got underway Chelsee Healey broke down in tears as she came to terms with the seriousness of her challenge.
The Waterloo Road actress became overwhelmed as she, Jack and Philips accompanied a group of school children on their walk to school.
Heartbreaking: Chelsee Healey began to cry during the third day of the Comic Relief challenge
Heartbreaking: Chelsee Healey began to cry during the third day of the Comic Relief challenge
Of course it was no ordinary walk to school for the children aged between seven to 18.
 
With no breakfast to keep them going they must embark on an arduous two hour walk from their village to their school.
Although the children were happy to be walking to school – and even sung a song and their national anthem to welcome them – the team are becoming more and more aware of just how serious this challenge is as they met those who could really benefit from their hard work.
Emotional: The actress accompanied a group of school children on their two hour walk to school
Emotional: The actress accompanied a group of school children on their two hour walk to school

Hard work: Chelsea was amazed that the children had to walk so far just to get to school
Hard work: Chelsea was amazed that the children had to walk so far just to get to school
Speaking about the walk Phillips said: ‘It’s back-breaking stuff. Before I got even half way my back was killing me! We were surrounded by woodland on both sides and the ground was really unstable; we were even walking over parts that become streams and rivers in the rainy season.

‘These kids have to do this every day, two hours there and two hours back; that’s a drive from Birmingham to London every day. Some of these kids they can’t even eat breakfast before they do this, and we decided to do the same.’
 
He went on to say: ‘I have a son and a daughter, and when I looked at every single one of these kids it was like looking at your own child. 
Understanding: Jack Dee accompanied Chelsee and the school kids on their walk giving them an idea of where the money raised would go
Understanding: Jack Dee accompanied Chelsee and the school kids on their walk giving them an idea of where the money raised would go

Serious: Although Jack is known for being a comedian he didn't look in the mood to crack any jokes during the walk
Serious: Although Jack is known for being a comedian he didn't look in the mood to crack any jokes during the walk
‘I thought how I would feel if that was the lifestyle my kids had to live. But these are the lucky ones – there are plenty of kids out there who can’t even get to school at all!
‘And when you ask them what they want to do, they’re all such unselfish jobs – they want to be teachers nurses, police;  they want to help the community.’
Whilst Jack, Phillips and Chelsee trekked to the school, the rest of the team, Greg, Mel and Dara, stayed in the village to understand more about why the other children can’t get there.
Getting to know you: Jack spent time chatting to some of the children during the two hour walk
Getting to know you: Jack spent time chatting to some of the children during the two hour walk
Greg said: ‘Today it all made a bit more sense. When we were sitting in the village this morning, the thing that struck me was the amount of kids surrounding us who are just desperate to go to school. 
‘The kids I’ve met today have got nothing, relatively nothing in their lives, and all they want to do is learn stuff, and it made me feel incredibly guilty for all those times I’ve taken my life for granted. 
‘If you’ve ever had that same feeling, if you’re feeling guilty right now then do them a favour, and do Comic Relief a favour and donate. You’ll be changing someone’s life, seriously.’
Showing his skills: Phillips Idowu demonstrated the triple jump as the team visited Siandunda Village then the Mandia School
Showing his skills: Phillips Idowu demonstrated the triple jump as the team visited Siandunda Village then the Mandia School

In awe: The Olympian managed to keep the children's attention with his impressive performance
In awe: The Olympian managed to keep the children's attention with his impressive performance
Despite a heart-wrenching morning, the team are now back on the water, pushing themselves to the limit as they travel 111km down the deadly Zambezi river, battling torrential downpours and negotiating rapids officially known as Gnashing Jaws of Death, The Washing Machine and Oblivion as they make their way beyond the world’s largest waterfall – Victoria Falls.  
Along the way they’re likely to encounter some of the world’s most dangerous and frightening creatures, like crocodiles, lethal snakes and one of the most deadly – hippos.
By night there will be none of the five star luxury they’re used to, as they’ll be camping on treacherous cliff tops and damp, soggy riverbanks.
Overcome: Phillips couldn't help but cry as he got to grips with the situation
Overcome: Phillips couldn't help but cry as he got to grips with the situation
And as if that wasn’t enough, they’re also likely to suffer nasty blisters, intense aching limbs and sweltering 30-degree heat, as they spend each day covering up to 29km on the river. 
On Tuesday the team discovered just how though things could get when Dara was left clinging to a tree for survival for nearly an hour after taking a wrong turn on the rapids. 
The team are putting themselves through hell and high water in the hope of raising £1 million to help children in Zambia go to school.
To help the stars raise cash, sponsor them now at rednoseday.com/zambezi
Speaking about the walk, Philips said: 'Before I got even half way my back was killing me!'
Speaking about the walk, Philips said: 'Before I got even half way my back was killing me!'

Antique Engagement Ring: A Thoughtful Alternative



Choosing the right engagement ring can be challenging. Many guys don't know what their girlfriend would like and they end up spending a fortune on a ring so that they feel they aren't skimping. The truth is that an antique engagement ring is a thoughtful alternative to brand new ring that most women appreciate immensely.

You might even find that your have an antique engagement ring available within in your family. Perhaps one of your grandparents have a special antique engagement ring that they received or that belonged to their parents. This is the ultimate antique engagement ring because it is extremely significant. However, if you aren't so lucky you can still search for the perfect ring at an antique store.

She Won't Say No

Your fiance will never be able to turn down such a special ring. But before you pop the question it is necessary to have the ring resized so it will slip perfectly onto her finger.

It is unlikely that the antique engagement ring will fit her unless you have it resized. If you don't want to ask her ring size then you can surreptitiously borrow one of her rings and bring it to a jeweler. He will be able to size your antique ring accordingly and you can replace her ring without her ever knowing you borrowed it.

Once your antique engagement ring has been resized you can rest easy knowing that it will fit your fianc's finger perfectly. She will be impressed that you took the time to plan ahead and personalize such a special ring for her. Unlike a new ring, the antique engagement ring carries much more significance- but only if it fits!

If you don't have a relative's ring to give then you can certainly find an antique engagement ring online. Perusing an action site like Ebay can be a great place to find the perfect ring. Not only will you have a large selection to chose from but the many pictures will help you identify the perfect antique engagement ring. As an added bonus, you have the potential to save a lot of money with an action.

If you want your fianc to know just how much you love her then giving her an antique engagement ring is the way to go. It isn't really about the amount you spend on the ring, it is about the emotional significance of the ring you give.


2013年1月30日星期三

Showing off all her hard work! Mariah Carey dons bra-like crop top to show off toned stomach

She's been doing well in her fledgling tenure at American Idol, and despite the obvious tensions between her and Nick Minaj... Mariah Carey seems to be loving her new role.
The 42-year-old certainly looked pleased with life as she endured a chilly New York day in a teeny weeny crop top that could pass as a bra in another light.
Mariah, who was also wearing sunglasses despite the grey day like a good diva, had perhaps been working out and wanted to relax in comfy clothing as she was also wearing black jersey skirt.
Cropping up: Mariah Carey showed off her toned tummy in chilly New York on Wednesday
Cropping up: Mariah Carey showed off her toned tummy in chilly New York on Wednesday
She'd thrown a chic biker jacket over the ensemble and added a pair of dangly earrings; and full make up.

And the beam on her face was brighter than the Manhattan sun as she flashed those superstar pearly whites.
But Mariah was in floods last when Tenna Torres sang for on the show.
It wasn’t the first time the two had met.
Comfy: Mariah was wearing some kind of voluminous jersey skirt
Comfy: Mariah was wearing some kind of voluminous jersey skirt
Comfy: Mariah was wearing some kind of voluminous jersey skirt
In shape: Mariah looks incredible and obviously wants to embrace that
In shape: Mariah looks incredible and obviously wants to embrace that
The 13-year-old when she was accepted into Camp Mariah and sang for the iconic superstar, making their reunion at the FOX singing competition one of the most moving moments in the show’s history.
'She is my idol, without a doubt,' says Torres, who hails from Queens, New York.
'Singing for her again was a dream come true.'
But Minaj, 30, and Mariah don't share a similar mutual admiration.
Big hitter: Mariah is holding her own on Idol
Big hitter: Mariah is holding her own on Idol
Buffer: Nicole Kidman's husband Keith Urban sits between Mariah and Nicky Minaj on the judging panel
Buffer: Nicole Kidman's husband Keith Urban sits between Mariah and Nicky Minaj on the judging panel
Jimmy Kimmel recently asked Minaj: 'A lot of people don't like their co-workers at their offices, but your office is on television and so when you have skirmishes everyone sees them. And clearly, you and Mariah Carey do not like each other.'
'I wouldn't say I don't like her, I definitely don't think she likes me,' Nicki replied, adding that despite this, she makes a fair bit of effort to be friendly.
'I try, as I looked up to her for a long time, so I don't want to hate on this lady, but she had an issue from the beginning. We're having fun though.
'I genuinely like going there, even Mariah and I, we really do have fun.'

Buddha Statue: Ultimate Symbol Of Divinity



Looking at a Buddha statue is like looking into the very face of divinity. The aura generated around each piece - figurine, statue or impression, is created to spread an awareness of the divinity within each one of us. Today, Buddha Statues inspire and adorn every kind of social setting, from the Feng Shui designed restaurant, to the curio shop to the modern home and office. The images are on tapestries, jewelry, linen and even upholstery. However, nothing compares to beholding the sight of a carefully crafted Buddha statue on a mantle piece or at the threshold of a room.

What makes the Buddha statue special?
A Buddha statue has the ability to completely transform a living space. It helps those in close contact to introspect and develop inner qualities. Around the world and across many Asian cultures, the statue is revered as one that brings happiness and good fortune. It is associated with inspiration and all the prerequisites of a good life. The very imagery associated with the Buddha is part of the central philosophy. All the statues now crafted and made available online as well as offline are designed to be tranquil, consistently evoking faith and serenity. At the same time, a touch of gold or ornamentation makes the same statue resplendent with a splendor tha3t is timeless in appeal.
When shopping for a Buddha statue, it is imperative to understand the symbolism behind it. The chosen statue should communicate peace and a sense of self-discipline. Going through the various postures and poses of the Buddha brings up different feelings and emotions. Among the many special Buddha statues are:
Buddharupa: Pictorial representation of the Enlightened One in bronze, wood, stone or brass.
Padmasana: Lotus position sculpture on a lotus pedestal.
Abhaymudra: Right hand held up, to expel fear and offer protection and peace.
Reclining Position: Disconnection with earthly matters.
Dhyana: Hands in his lap to symbolize repose.
Akshobhya: Touching the earth, calling on the earth goddess to witness triumph over senses.
Bhaishajya Guru: Medicinal power.
Manjushri: Teacher and keeper of wisdom.
The various statues of the Buddha also depict the eight auspicious symbols - the conch, fly whisk, lotus blossom, endless knot, parasol, water urn, twin fish and the wheel of dharma. Statues depicting the auspicious knot of hair on the Buddha's head are also popular, for their symbolism with his spiritual wisdom. A Buddha statue is invested in by different people for different reasons. While for most it depicts an aesthetically appealing timeless piece of art, for some the statue is more than clay or metal or ceramic - it symbolizes peace of mind in situations that throw up conflicting emotions. It is an art to comprehend the significance of one.

Can you really get fit in FOUR MINUTES every day? It's the hot new exercise craze. And amazingly, it worked for our (exhausted) guinea pig

Like most women who describe themselves as 'curvy', I've searched for years to find a way to get fit and lose weight that actually works.
A generous size 14 for most of my adult life, I've tried  everything from aerobics to zumba - without success.
Maybe it's because I have no willpower: I never say no to a biscuit, for example. Or perhaps it's my lack of motivation - even though I can find plenty if cake is involved.
All these play a part, but what I lack more than anything is time and patience.
Tabata promises to transform your body with just four minutes of exercise a day
Tabata promises to transform your body with just four minutes of exercise a day
I love a quick fix. So, the idea of slaving away in a hot gym for the government's recommended five half-hour sessions of exercise a week is my worst nightmare.
I'm not alone. In studies, the number-one reason why people give up a fitness regime is that they're too busy. Losing weight involves dedication and hard work.
 
For this reason, I'd long resigned myself to always buying knickers that said 'large' on the label. At 5ft 4in and weighing 10st 6lb, I have a BMI of 25.04, which classifies me as overweight.
But then I heard about Tabata. Dubbed the 'four-minute miracle' workout, it promises to transform your body with just four minutes of exercise a day. It sounded too good to be true - I had to try it.
At 5ft 4in and weighing 10st 6lb, Jenny had a BMI of 25.04, which classified her as overweight
At 5ft 4in and weighing 10st 6lb, Jenny had a BMI of 25.04, which classified her as overweight
Personal trainer Ben Camara introduced Tabata workouts to clients at his No  1 Fitness gyms and offered to show me the ropes.
A former professional footballer, Ben explained that Tabata is named after the Japanese scientist Izumi Tabata, who tested which kind of exercise works best on two different groups.
The first pedalled an exercise bike as fast as possible for four minutes a day - made up of eight 20-second bursts, with a break of ten seconds between each burst.
The second group pedalled at normal speed for an hour. After doing this five times a week for several weeks, the Tabata training group had improved their fitness way beyond the others.
The conclusion? Just four minutes of daily Tabata-style exercise could be better for you than 60 minutes in the gym. Brilliant. Plus, you can do a Tabata routine with any kind of exercise - the only rules are that you must follow the '20 seconds activity followed by ten seconds rest-format'; and you must exercise as hard as you possibly can. And that's it. 
To get started, Ben suggested something 'simple' - 20 seconds of squats followed by ten seconds of rest, followed by another 20 seconds of squats... until I'd been exercising for four minutes.
I thought: how hard can that be? But just seconds in, I discovered placid Ben had a shouty side. I'd managed  ten squats in 20 seconds, but apparently I wasn't squatting as fast as I could.
For the second burst, I managed 12 squats in 20 seconds - but even that didn't pass muster. By the fifth burst, I was hitting 14 squats and my thighs  were on fire.
The ten-second rest breaks weren't enough to catch my breath, but at least I only had three more rounds to go. By the time the four minutes were up I felt sick, dizzy and couldn't speak. Ben was delighted. That's exactly how you should feel after Tabata, he enthused.
He suggested trying some other exercises, Tabata-style. We headed to a stationary  bike where Ben told me to try to hit 20mph. Again, I did my sets of 20-second bursts of activity interspersed with ten seconds of rest.
Ben was shouty: 'I'd managed ten squats in 20 seconds, but apparently I wasn't squatting as fast as I could'
Ben was shouty: 'I'd managed ten squats in 20 seconds, but apparently I wasn't squatting as fast as I could'
Calling it 'rest' is misleading - it was ten seconds of wide-eyed gasping. Over the next half hour, we ran through several alternative four-minute routines involving lunges, press-ups, kettlebell weights, and two pieces of sophisticated torture equipment - TRX straps and the ominously-named Vipr (pronounced 'viper').
The TRX straps hung from the ceiling, and supported my weight while I performed arm-wrenching rowing and pulling moves; while the Vipr was a giant black plastic glorified loo roll that weighed a ton and which I carried while doing sideways lunges - making the exercise harder.

During my four-minute Tabata session each  day, Ben reckoned I should be combining two different exercises.
For example, doing four 20-second sets of squats, then four 20-second sets of press-ups, to work both my upper and lower body. It was agony - but it was over surprisingly quickly.
It really helped knowing exactly how many more seconds I had to endure the pain for. Once I'd caught my breath, I couldn't believe that was all I had to do.
On days two, three and four, I tried sit-ups mixed with skipping. But frustratingly the needle on the bathroom scales didn't budge. So, I stepped things up and on day five I had a go at speed cycling.
By the end of the week, a funny thing happened. No, not smashing the living room lampshade, during an enthusiastic skipping session - I started enjoying my Tabata time. Not only that, but I'd lost 2lb.

WEEK 2
Anyone with high blood pressure or heart condition should check with their GP before doing this
Anyone with high blood pressure or heart condition should check with their GP before doing this
When Ben rang for an update, I was keen to find out why Tabata works.
Ben gave me lots of scientific explanation but the upshot is High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) such as Tabata increases your aerobic (lung) capacity and your anaerobic capacity (how long you can exercise for at maximum effort).
Also, because Tabata training builds muscle, your metabolic rate - the speed at which your body breaks down fat and burns calories - increases in the 24 to 36 hours after doing it.
So, you lose weight quicker.
Impressed, I contacted Dr Sarah Brewer, GP and author of Live Longer, Look Younger In 20 Easy Steps, to ask if Tabata is medically a wise idea.
She said anyone with high blood pressure or a heart condition should check with their doctor before doing exercise this vigorous - especially as some experts believe you should only do two Tabata sessions a week.
By day ten, I'd lost 3lb, and had actually started looking forward to my torture sessions.
And by day 14 I was thrilled when I hopped on the scales to find I'd lost 4lb - and shaved 2cm from my waist and 3cm from my tummy. My BMI was also down to a healthier 24.36.
OK, so I'm not fit enough to run a four-minute mile yet, but I'm getting there - and I actually want to do more than four minutes a day.
If this carries on, I might even have to ditch the Bridget Jones-style undies...

Some Interesting Facts About The Buddha Fountain



It isn't surprising to find a figure that has long been a symbol peace and serenity posing with his round belly in the home garden or on a living room table. The Buddha fountain takes the familiar person of Buddha and translates it to a wonderful feature.

The appearance of the Buddha fountain has been represented in a variety of styles by different craftsmen and artists over the years. By doing some basic research on the internet, you know there are countless retailers selling different Buddha fountain styles, from big freestanding models to tiny tabletop figures balanced on stone stacks in the middle of shiny bowls. It is possible to find a Buddha fountain to match your specific needs or preferences.

Modern fountains, including the Buddha fountain, are available in older materials like stone and metal as well as synthetics like fiberglass and resin. Either way, you get beautifully designed fountains that will surely be the emphasis point for your garden or indoor space.

The simplicity of today's Buddha fountain is like most others since you can get fountains that are easy to install and complete with water pump and tubing. If you decide to go with a solar fountain, your Buddha fountain will be running on the sun's light.

If you're interested in getting a Buddha fountain, the first step is doing some research. Naturally, you're going to start with personal considerations like taste. Do you know what kind of Buddha fountain you would like to own? There are rotund Buddhas, smiling Buddhas, and solemn-looking Buddhas. Depending on where you plan to place the Buddha fountain, you may pick a model that best accommodates the space. Now, if you foresee having a fountain inside your home, a tabletop Buddha fountain may be more appropriate for the space. On the other hand, if the Buddha fountain will be placed on a patio or in a Zen garden, then larger freestanding models are the best option. You need to make a few notes on what you want before you start browsing.

If you are interested in a Buddha fountain, then the first place to look is online. The internet has numerous retail outlets that specialize in outdoor water features like the Buddha fountain.