Sudan News Blog @newzblogz.com

The woman with long, dark hair looks yearningly at the gold necklace in the window of a jewelry store. She fixates on the bling. There's some kind of disruption in the atmosphere. And then, the necklace is draped around her neck.

The scenes unfold in "The Secret," a 90-minute-long DVD advocating the power of positive thinking that has sold 2 million copies. More than 5.2 million copies of the book of the same name are in print.

While "The Secret" has become a pop culture phenomenon, it also has drawn critics who are not quiet about labeling the movement a fad, embarrassingly materialistic or the latest example of an American propensity of wanting something for nothing.

Link to full article

Add to Del.icio.us | Digg This | Post to Reddit

BANGUI, Central African Republic—Dozens of rebels, including a top leader, have recently flocked into towns in this poor, coup-plagued country in apparent acts of defection.

In the town of Paoua, at least 29 of the rebels, who had belonged to the Popular Army for the Restoration of Democracy, have registered with the national army, said Lt. Bechir Dopani, commander of the presidential guard detachment in the town.

About 100 also turned up in the town of Kaga-Bandoro, officials said.

Link to full article

Add to Del.icio.us | Digg This | Post to Reddit

CHICAGO ? The woman with long, dark hair looks yearningly at the gold necklace in the window of a jewelry store. She fixates on the bling. There's some kind of disruption in the atmosphere. And then, the necklace is draped around her neck.

The scenes unfold in "The Secret," a 90-minute-long DVD advocating the power of positive thinking that has sold 2 million copies. More than 5.2 million copies of the book of the same name are in print.

While "The Secret" has become a pop culture phenomenon, it also has drawn critics who are not quiet about labeling the movement a fad, embarrassingly materialistic or the latest example of an American propensity of wanting something for nothing.

Link to full article

Add to Del.icio.us | Digg This | Post to Reddit

GLASTONBURY (Reuters) - Glastonbury, the world's biggest green field arts and music festival, has a history of political activism and this year was no exception with campaigns about climate change and big business.

The festival says the "Left Field" venue "aims to reaffirm the spirit of political debate" and show that "music can make a difference" with discussion forums, Fair Trade shopping and films to raise awareness of political issues.

"We've put a lot of effort into focusing Glastonbury on the environment and climate change this year," said festival organizer Michael Eavis, who was this month given an award for services to music by Queen Elizabeth.

Link to full article

Add to Del.icio.us | Digg This | Post to Reddit

Tyson Gay, left, outruns Leonard Scott to win the 100-meter dash in a time of 9.84 seconds at the U.S .Track and Field Championships on Friday. Associated Press Photo.

Link to full article

Add to Del.icio.us | Digg This | Post to Reddit