No: 4 March / April 2015 Edition
CONTENTS
1 Pearls Team 2 Editorial 3 Photography 4 Planting the mustard seed 8 photo Tourism 11 The Experience Lagos 2014 12 Donnie MacClurklin 13Nathaniel Bassey 14 Frank Edwards 15 Chioma Jesus 16 Micah Stampley 17 Midnight Crew 18 Chevelle Franklin 19 Israel Houghton 20 Don Moen 21 Art: Photography 23 Family Health 24 Michelle Bello: Redefining Nollywood 26 Fashion: The Lady's Wardrobe 29 Cover: ONOS 33 Nigeria's Spoken Word Competition 2014 36 Valentine Poems 37 Ten Questions for Paul Word 38 Values of a successful relationship 39 Love's Uniqueness 40 Does He really love you? 41 Love's Origin 44 Book Review: Open Heavens 45 Event: Endless Love
PEARLS TEAM Dike Dyke Williams Publisher Toni Osai Editor Dike Alphons Publishing Consultant Adedamola Ogunbanwo Project Consultant Simon Christopher Graphic Director Solomon Elohor Abe Cover Design Blessing Ehigiator Columnist Legal Consultant Prof. F.C.Dike (SAN) Nnaji Dike Law Chambers (Legal Solicitors). nnajidike@gmail.com
Contributors Damilola Sammy Marcos www.sammymarcos.com Suleiman Abdullahi Sam De PoEt Olumide Olulu Adewunmi Peter Fasogbon Folasade Tomi Pearls Magazine is published by Dyke International Limited. No article on this publication should be reproduced in any form, without the permission of the publisher. We acknowledge some of the photographs used in this publication, and their owners who published them online. We also acknowledge our contributors who contributed photographs. For advert placement on this magazine, contact: +234 0701 4626 190, 0706 7648 295, 0803 4288 027. Facebook.com/pearlsmagazine Twitter.com/pearlsmagazineN Email: magazinepearls@gmail.com www.issuu.com/pearlsmagazine Š 2015. Dyke International Limited. All rights reserved.
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EDITORIAL Let your good character/deeds/words be obvious so that other people may see you and give glory to God who is in heaven, Matthew 5:16.
That is the whole essence of Pearls Magazine; to put good works in the hands of you, our readers. Good music, good writing, sound advice and tips, so that you can praise God for His creation. He is the source of all that is good and it is only right that we celebrate and spread the word about the things that are worth talking about. We promise to only tell you about the best music out there, the best entertainment, fashion, business; you are the best, for sticking with us this far, and we would only offer you the best as you deserve. So pick up a copy, share with as many as you can, and spread the good work so that your Father may be glorified in heaven. See you around, Toni Osai Editor
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BUSINESS
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his article is the concluding part from the last edition of Pearls Magazine, read the previous article to understand better.
PLANTING THE MUSTARD SEED
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TOP DREAMING: “Ideas are useless unless used. The proof of their value is in their implementation. Until then, they are in limbo,� says Theodore Levitt. Sometimes, after writing down the vision or mustard seed idea, we continue to weaken the vision by not taking any meaningful action. The cause of this many times is fear or disbelief. At first, it will seem a great idea, but later, fear of failure and the example of those who tried and failed begins to haunt us.
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e begin to give very good reasons why the idea may fail, especially when we believe it will take two much money to get it done. The truth is, if we refuse to bend the iron when it's hot, it will become cold, and we begin to see failure. The worse failure is not trying something at all. If you try and failed, you have gained experience. And, experience gained, is not lost, because it could be useful later for you or someone else.
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e stretch an idea too long when we don't take action on time. Or, we take the initial action, but get discouraged after few attempts. You cannot find gold by digging light on the surface of the earth. It's the persistency of the miners that finds the gold. We must be ready from the time the mustard seed idea is conceived, to see how good that idea is, how far it can go, how important it is to humanity and yourself, and never lose such idea carelessly on the alter of laziness and disbelief!
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PLANTING THE MUSTARD SEED
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EGIN THE VISION: It was Henry David Thoreau who once made this known: “If one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams, and endeavors to live the life which he has imagined, he will meet his success unexpected in common hours.” There is nothing more important in moving a vision than to start it. If you refuse to start your car, it cannot be on the road. This is where starting small, on your own begins. This is where the great move starts. It is where we stop dreaming, because we have dreamt enough, but we start the dream and watch it crawl, walk, run, then fly… Mustard seed ideas cannot fly if they are not started. You cannot see an airplane in the sky that was not started. At this point, there will be challenges from people, life and even weather, but those things will test your strength and will; if it's enough to see your mustard seed ideas survive into the future. Just like an athlete who wants the gold medal will overlook the hurdles and dare to win, if we want to bring that small idea into growth, we must look away from the hurdles, and cross that finished line! CHOOSE A VISION: We may be tempted to attempt many ideas at first. It's dangerous to start an idea because you see someone somewhere doing well in it. Your passion for an idea is very important. The question to ask is:
'DO I HAVE THE PASSION FOR THIS IDEA? CAN I GO ON WITH IT, EVEN THOUGH I STRUGGLE WITH IT FROM THE BEGINNING? Your talent is something that is easy for you to do, and it's powered by passion. You must choose an idea that you can succeed with, you will know it because you can go with it. Ponder on this observation of Thomas Carlyle: “Of all the paths a man could strike onto, there is, at any given moment, a best path… a thing which, here and now, if it were of all things wisest for him to do… to find this path and walk in it.” Dike Dyke Williams
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Photo - Tourism: Location - Calabar (Obudu Cattle Ranch), Nigeria
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Sammy Marcos Photography
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Photo - Tourism: Location - Calabar (Obudu Cattle Ranch), Nigeria
by:
Sammy Marcos Photography
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Donnie MacClurkin
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onnie MacClurkin, Grammy award winning gospel minister is a Pastor, song writer and has a powerful presence in the media through his Donnie radio project.
Donnie's love for God is evident in his songs, and the zest he puts into his ministration. He has become a strong mentor to Frank Edward. 2014 Experience makes it the second time Donnie and Frank Would sing on stage. They both sang Frank Edward's 'Ogene Do,' when Frank ministered. Donnie amazed the Experience family when he sang Nigerian songs, including the ones some native speakers of the languages may find hard to sing. He was the last minister to send the crowd on their way, but he gave an unforgettable account.
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Nathaniel Bassey N
athaniel Bassey has been coming from the gospel music place, but was thrown into great limelight though his single “Imela.� Bassey, a known trumpeter took the stage at the Lagos Experience with a confidence that showed he has been on stages singing to the God of Heaven. His mastery of the trumpet is so graceful that he calls you to worship with it, like Pastor Kunle Ajayi.
When he introduced his hit single 'Imela' on stage that night, the Experience crowd went wide, and sang along. He took the stage when Pastor Donnie McClurkin and Micah Stampley came out to sing 'This God is too much' with him. It was an Experience on stage that anyone should experience, and not be told. That scene will remain in the hearts of everyone that made it to the ninth Lagos Experience, for a very long time.
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Frank Edwards
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rank Richboy as he is fondly called is the CEO of Rocktown, a gospel record label that has contributed to the gospel music industry in Nigeria. He is no more new to the Experience family. In fact, he has become a member, just like Don Moen has become the face of the Experience Lagos. When it was his time to minister, lovely instrumentalists with the string instruments formed a small orchestra before the audience. He sang his great single “Ogene Do”, as the family sang along. He later invited Donnie MacClurkin to sing “Ogene Do”, they both sang until that spirit of worship took the air. He sang more of his worship/praise songs, leaving out pop songs like “You too dey bless me” and “Okaka.” Frank Edward has become an ambassador for the great gospel music ministry, and has been confirmed as the best Rock artiste in Nigeria.
Chioma Jesus
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oming to the Experience Lagos for the first time, Chioma Jesus took the Experience family by storm. When the management of the Experience included her, many people wanted to know how she would carry a crowd of multi-cultural backgrounds along. But she didn't disappoint. She sang songs that many cultures present were aware of, from her old albums and singles, which Lagosians on the streets of Lagos have heard from a street marketer, or a shop where local albums are sold. Chioma who took the stage like a minstrel and a prophetess, and sang like Deborah on stage, and won the hearts of everyone present. 13
Micah Stampley
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icah is not new to the . Experience family. He . has been a regular minister at the Experience. The thing is, when he comes, he brings Heaven on earth through his known song “Heaven on Earth”. That song has become an anthem for the Experience family. When he sang “Nobody Greater”, the family shouted so loud as they sang along. Then, he sang 'More', a song that helps . worshippers thirst afresh for . God's Presence, and remind God how desperate we are as human beings. Micah Joined Donnie McClurkin and Nathaniel Bassey on stage earlier on, to the wonder of the Experience family, as the trio sang 'This God is too much.' He was later called by the convener of the Experience Lagos, Pastor Paul Adefarasin, to join Nathaniel Bassey and Co to sing the Nigerian national anthem.
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MIDNIGHT CREW
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idnight Crew has never disappointed with their afro – tunes and songs that make audience sweat on the dance-floor. The wisdom that has kept this precious team is greatly admirable. The
members of the group may release singles or albums, without the group hitting the rock, that's rare! This is one of the virtues the group has that makes us proud of their brand. They were unveiled at the Experience like diamonds shinning up on that stage, and giving the light, through their classic single 'Igwe'. In fact, the song was remixed by Chevelle Franklin, giving it some reggae and Jamaican mix, to the amazement of the Crew. Mike Abdul, one of the members in the group sang his hit single 'Morire' and even introduced his fuji-gospel, and blessed a section of the audience that enjoys fuji gospel music. They sang that night with confidence, and owned the audience for the time
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Chevelle Franklin
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hevelle Franklin has become a World-force to reckon with in gospel music. A Jamaican-born reggae gospel minister who abandoned the world on stage, and went into full gospel music ministry, and has never looked back! She is fast becoming a powerful name in Nigeria, because of her presence on the Experience stage. Her own version of 'Igwe' by Midnight Crew made the Experience family this year go wild. She introduced reggae into an afro-gospel song, and it worked perfectly. Now, people know her as the gospel music minister that remixed 'Igwe' with reggae tunes. Chevelle is a queen in the reggae genre, in Jamaica. She was featured in one of Onos' single, a song that will make you uncomfortable on your seat, if you refuse to dance. She sang some Naija songs on stage this year, and added some beautiful reggae tunes to show her tremendous creativity.
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Israel
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srael Houghton has been a regular minister at the Experience. He became so popular through his single 'Alpha and Omega.' The song has become an official worship-anthem for the Experience family, because of the spirit behind it cannot die. Israel and New Breed have been fantastic and have blessed the world through his ministry. There are some gospel music ministers that makes the Experience family leave everything to be at TBS once a year, Israel is one of them. He came on stage and played his guitar, as he is a master of it, and sang songs from his friend's Michael .W. Smith's album. The highlight of his performance that night was when he told everyone to bring out their phones and light everywhere. A prophecy for Nigeria, signifying how light will enter the country's future.
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Don
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on is no stranger to the Experience Lagos; in fact he has become the face of the Experience, because right from the inception of this project, Don Moen has been involved. In the U.S. gospel music industry too, Don is a legend and father to many contemporary gospel music ministers. He is one of the founders of Integrity Music, a gospel music record label that promoted the ministries of great gospel music ministers in America. He came on stage, an as usual and went on his piano, rolling out songs from his previous albums. He didn't disappoint all who came to hear Don Moen's silky voice, and most importantly, to hear his life – changing songs. 18
Art - Photography
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by:
Peter Adewunmi Awolusi
Art - Photography
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by:
Peter Adewunmi Awolusi
FAMILY
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our quality of life is largely dictated by your physical health. And when it comes to building and maintaining a healthy lifestyle, we all know that eating right and working out are more or less the keys. But there's more to being healthy than choosing brown rice over white and hitting the gym five days a week. To take your health to the next level, you've got to think. Sleeping under a mosquito net shields you from mosquito bites, but opened water surface is a perfect breeding space for mosquitoes. Water should be kept covered in our homes. Storage of water in a can for too long is not hygienic as algae builds up over time in cans. Reservoir should be washed at intervals and water newly pumped into a tank shouldn't be used immediately because settled algae are activated on pumping of water. Finger nails should be kept low so as not to house micro organisms easily transmitted from the finger to the mouth or other parts of the body. Protecting your eyes starts with the food on your plate. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamins C and E might help ward off age-related vision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts. Eat lots of fruits and veggies! Carrots, loaded with beta carotene are especially helpful in maintaining healthy eyes. That's because beta carotene is an antioxidant that reduces the risk of macular degeneration in the eyes. Your bones are continuously changing — new bone is made and old bone is broken down. When you're young, your body makes new bone faster than it breaks down old bone, and your bone mass increase. A number of factors can affect bone health. For example: The amount of calcium in your diet. A diet low in calcium contributes to diminished bone density, early bone loss and an increased risk of fractures. Physical activity. People who are physically inactive have a higher risk of osteoporosis than do their more-active counterparts. Tobacco use contributes to weak bones. Similarly, regularly having more than two alcoholic drinks a day increases the risk of osteoporosis, possibly because alcohol can interfere with the body's ability to absorb calcium. Gender, size and age. You're at greater risk of osteoporosis if you're a woman, because women have less bone tissue than men. You're also at risk if you're extremely thin (with a body mass index of 19 or less) or have a small body frame because you may have less bone mass to draw from as you age. Also your bones become thinner and weaker as you age. Hormone levels. Too much thyroid hormone can cause bone loss. In women, bone loss increases dramatically at menopause due to dropping estrogen levels. Prolonged period absence of menstruation (amenorrhea), before menopause also increases the risk of osteoporosis. In men, low testosterone levels can cause a loss of bone mass. By FASOGBON FOLASADE TOMI DHS-NIGERIA
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Michelle Bello:
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Redefining Nollywood
ward – winning Michelle Bello came into the Nigeria Movie industry and set a standard. Born in 1982 in London, England. Michelle has a heart for film, but had always wanted to do films with the best quality.
Michelle Bello:
Redefining Nollywood
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n a time when the Nigeria Nollywood movie industry was facing strong criticism for making less quality movies, Michelle and the others who had her kind of vision, decided to move from the normal, and make films that will represent the industry. She spent her early years in Lagos, then, at eight left for England. It was in the United Kingdom that she discovered her passion for film. For someone who wanted to make a difference in her discipline, she attended American University in Washington D.C, where she studied communication (Visual Media). She made short films while in the USA, and made her first 16mm short film titled: 'Sheltered,' probably to get a taste of what her future in film making would be like. After her graduation from American University in 2005, she moved back to Nigeria to start her passion as a film producer and Director. Michelle has worked with Africa's TV producer and presenter, Mo Abudu, as an associate producer on Mo's Moments with Mo. She later produced the award – winning music video for T.V. Bello's 'Greenland.’ In 2007 she produced and directed her first feature film titled: 'Small Boy.' The film won her awards, including the African Movie Academy Award for 'Best Art Direction.' Her second feature film is titled: 'Flower Girl' which was released on February 2013. The film also won Best African film in the UK at the Black International film Festival in November 2013. The movie also was nominated, and won 'Favorite New Nollywood Film.’ She runs an entertainment company, Blu Star Entertainment Limited as the C.E.O. Michelle's non-compromising way of making films is exemplary, especially in an industry still trying to catch up with highest standards. She is known as a unique film-maker who introduces quality into her works, and that was why before she was awarded by the judges at the Africa Magic Viewer's Choice Awards 2014 they concluded that she was being awarded: “For her commitment and demonstrated talent, her versatility and potential for cutting – edge approaches to African cinema”
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FASHION
The Lady's Wardrobe
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very woman has a signature style that makes her feel comfortable and at her best. The styles and clothing that helps to enhance her body beautifully allows her to exercise a level of confidence at all time. A woman does not have to stuff up her closet with all the latest trends of shoes, clothing and accessories before she can become comfortable and confident. The Ability to stylish and match anything in a lady's closet simply highlight that she is fashionable and classy. It also highlight that she has all the essential clothing items a lady needs. 24
by:
Olumuyiwa Damilola
FASHION
The Lady's Wardrobe
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lthough, fashion comes and goes, there are timeless and basic pieces that create a superb wardrobe. No matter the fashion item in vogue, these pieces (lady's essential) are always trendy. They always project a stunning and elegant look when worn correctly. There are some must have items in a closet. These items are the basics of one's wardrobe, and no matter the style or signature of any lady, she must have them. A Little Black Dress (LBD):- It is an important item for every lady to possess. The necessity of a little black dress in one's closet cannot be overemphasized. There is a saying that a person (Lady) can never go wrong with a LBD. It is a very good concealer in a situation of under dressing or overdressing. This piece in one's closet can help save the day. It is a clothing item that can be worn from day to night and can be styled differently for different occasions. The little black dress could be won with a flat sole shoe or ballet shoe to present a casual look. A LBD, a pump or heel shoe with little accessories is a splendid look for a dinner party or get together. Wearing a white shirt or a cool colored blazer on top of the black dress coupled with a pump shoe can give a professional look (if the LBD is a pencil gown). A White Shirt: - A white shirt is always classic. The sleeve length and cuts can vary based on one's personal style and preference. It is also available in various materials with different texture. It can help to enhance desired curves. It can also help to hide undesirable curves. It is essential to search for exactly the right style that suits you. It can aid in creating an effortless chic look. One in a closet is definitely a good idea. Blazers: - A good blazer is exact for all body types. When worn correctly, it gives a splendid and glamorous look. A blazer is perfect for a casual yet stylish outfit. A blazer could also portray classic and professional. It can be worn to the office for a corporate appearance. It can also be used as a coat in a temperate weather or place with a high air condition. A Pencil Skirt: - A pencil Skirt gives a more formal and slimming look when compared to an A shaped skirt. An A –shaped skirt is camouflaging and casual while a pencil skirt could be used for both a formal and casual look. A pencil skirt in your closet is to your advantages as they can work with any beautiful and luxurious trendy tops you find from season to season. A pencil skirt can go well with a simple blouse, blazer or a denim jacket. It can be used for both work and leisure. Shoes: - Shoes are very important in a lady's closet. A woman's shoe goes a long way in telling you who she is. A comfortable, good, trendy and elegant shoe is a treasure. A lady's wardrobe can never be complete without her shoes. Shoes have different sizes, shapes and color. It is necessary for a lady to choose a shoe that will flatter her legs and at the same time comfortable. Flats, stilettos, sneakers, boots, sandals and slippers are needed for a complete wardrobe. Different colors should be owned based on one's preference. Blouse: - Depending on taste and lifestyle, different styles of blouse can be owned. Long sleeves, short sleeves are varieties you will want to have in your closet. Depending on the shape and pattern. Having different patterns and styles of blouse is always a plus to your closet. Under wears: - There are certain under wears that can't be worn with certain clothes. It will totally ruin the outfit. Having a good under wear on, will enhance comfortability and boost one's confidence. It is good to invest in a good under wear; it will make you feel great at all times. A lady also needs handbags and deodorants to spice up her wardrobe.
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Olumuyiwa Damilola
www.gmg.com.ng 26
Cover:
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ONOS
nos is a star in Nigeria and Africa, when it comes to contemporary gospel music. She has been in the Nigerian gospel music industry for too long, that is why she understands this industry that her solutions look more of a consultant who knows her trade. An award-winning gospel music minister in her own right, and a model to women in ministry, and women that love God. There is no gainsay that, she is a leader in the African gospel music circle, and in the class of Sinach and Co. She ministered at the Experience Lagos last year, and it was great to hear her songs. On this edition, she shares with us her ministry, dedication, the Nigerian gospel music industry and more. We had to unveil ONOS from where you may not have known her from‌ 27
PM. Can you tell us about your relationship with God, and why you chose gospel music? ONOS : I love God to a fault, I normally will tell people that I've gone too far to turn back now, without God I'm worthless , empty, nothing makes sense without God and I chose gospel music because for me it is beyond just music it is ministry and I'm fulfilling purpose.
PM: You started singing at the tender age of eight, how did you keep your focus alive? ONOS: let's just say that I'm a typical church girl, I've been in the church environment for as long as I can remember and yes, I never at any point went the other direction I guess it was just the favor, grace and will of God because I don't even know how it happened, longing for greater heights in the things of God kinda helped me stay focused as well. PM: Some people think there is no gospel music industry in Nigeria, do you agree with this? ONOS: I don't know why they arrived at that conclusion, but I want to believe they have their reasons for saying such but for me, I believe that things may not look as well structured as it is in the US, but the truth is that, it's the same challenge that those of our colleagues doing secular music are facing, but it is not stopping them from making music so I'll say the music industry in Nigeria is getting better, it is not where it was some years ago and if we keep doing things the way it ought to be done, then we will be aiming for greater heights . PM: You are one of the gospel ministers that have given Nigerian gospel music so much, how do you feel about it? ONOS: Really! I'm glad to be counted among the chosen ones.... (laughs) On a serious note it a privilege to serve, and be a blessing to the people, for me I don't think I've started yet I believe God still has loads of things in store for me. Having said that, it is indeed a great feeling to know that you are living your dream and that you didn't allow the dream die, so I'm happy people love my songs and are blessed by them. PM: Some people think going for gospel music will not help them financially, do you buy that? ONOS: The truth is, if it is something God has called you to do, He has ways of sustaining you, if you go into it because of the money you will drop by the way side, because it is only the drive and the passion that will keep you going even when your money is funny .
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ONOS PM: Gospel artiste or gospel minister, are there differences? ONOS: To me they are the same thing. I believe people love to refer to an individual as a gospel minister when the person ministers with great anointing and there is a strong move of God during their ministration, which in reality should be the attribute of a gospel artiste, where your music goes beyond performance and people can literarily feel the mighty move of God in your ministration. PM: How many albums has Onos released? ONOS: ONOS has two albums, the first one "Keep moving� was released in Feb. 2010 and the second "No LIMITS" just dropped August 17th 2014. ONOS: Your music is loved, what is the secret behind this? ONOS: I'm so thankful to God that people love my music and I will say also that God is the secret behind it. If you get a chance to listen to some of the songs in the first and the second album, you will notice a lot changed I guess been married and child birth did a lot for me when I was working on my second album, because I saw life differently and appreciated the power of simplicity more, I wasn't trying too hard I just did it as I felt it. PM: Do you have any gospel project that inspires young choristers to follow gospel music? ONOS: I'm the national coordinator for WAOMM (Women of Africa Origin in Music Ministry) in Nigeria, and one of the things we do is inspire, we are a supportive system through which women of African Origin in Music Ministry can be supported, empowered, encouraged to fulfill their God given talents and gifting. So my primary role as the national coordinator in Nigeria is ensure by the special grace of God that, WAOMM can lend a voice to as many individuals or corporate bodies that need a shoulder to lean on, as they actualize their God-given potentials. PM: You have been able to keep the ONOS brand, how did you overcome? ONOS: For me, l love to keep things real and simple with a lot of class, so if you look at the entire ONOS brand that is what and who we are. PM: How do you manage the ministry and family, despite the challenges of gospel music? ONOS: It's not a very easy task, but first and foremost the person you marry has a lot of role to play in your ministry, that's why it is always good to marry for the right reason, marry someone you love, marry your friend it is very key! PM: What is your personal view about the gospel music industry in Nigeria has it grown? ONOS: Like I said earlier on, it's not where it is suppose to be, but I can say there has been a lot of improvement.
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PM: How has the support been from fans all over the world that love your music? ONOS: The support has been humbling, l am so grateful to God I can't thank Him enough. And, I really want send a big shout-out to as many that download my songs and buy my album...Y'all rock! PM: There is a problem of piracy in Nigeria; does it affect your music too? ONOS: What say ye to these things... (laughs) Until proper structure is in place something won't change, that's all I can say at the moment on this. PM: You did collaboration with Chevelle Franklin from Jamaica, what was the feeling like working with her on that single? ONOS: I've grown to love Chevelle Franklyn, her ministry and personality has blessed me greatly. My first encounter with her was at the Experience 2010 where we did a remix to my song "DANCE," and then we sang the song again in 2012 together at the Calabar carnival and now on my new album "NO LIMITS" she featured on the track called "Victory Song," a song she wrote and I tell you it is a fantastic praise song I feel really honored working with her, and having her on my project is a great privilege indeed. PM: Could you tell us the awards you have garnered since you went professional? ONOS: Best female vocalist 2012 Nigeria, Gospel Music Awards Best female Vocalist 2013 Crystal Awards… PM: Onos to us has been one of the pacesetters in Nigerian gospel music, where do you want to see gospel music in the coming years from here? ONOS: I am looking forward to seeing Gospel Artist as brand ambassadors, and more in the frontline of the corporate market if you know what I mean… PM: Your brand is unique and appreciated; do you have that vision still to push it farther than this? ONOS: Yes I do, and I'm working on it. PM: What is your message for aspiring gospel ministers trying to enter the industry? ONOS: Be true to yourself, enter it for the passion and not for the money, let your focus be on the giver of the gift and not just the gift…
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NIGERIA'S SPOKEN WORD POETRY COMPETITION
(War of Words) 2014
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he event began with the introduction of the judges; on that enviable roll call was the man who every Spoken Word Poet agrees is the king of rhymes and free style, the one and only Torpedo Mascaw. Other judges included Soonest Nathaniel Scholes, and the highly respected Bob Ekat who is a regular at WORD UP events. The guest judge of the day was Mrs Ayodele Jaiyesimi, who is the Head, Human Capital Management and Development, First Bank Nigeria Limited. In total, four judges sat on the bench to decide the fate of these fearless poetic gladiators. The bell rang and so the war began. First to grace the stage was the sacrificial poet for the day DARE DAN, he gave us an idea of what to expect. First round saw barrages of scintillating performances from 16 poets, and at the end of it all 9 poets qualified for the next round with the dark Horse from Eko Poetry Slam, Paul Word, dusting all comers to come tops. Other qualifiers included, Olayinka Samson Aremu aka Samurai, Abe Olalekan who came all the way from Ibadan, and also from Ibadan was Omolara Kolawole, a medical student of University College Hospital, Ibadan. Completing the list of qualifiers were Igbor Clemency Green from Lagos, Osigwe Promise, Neofloetry from Port Harcourt, Nancee and Bankol (who had to go through a tie breaker with the aid of the noise meter to get in as the last qualifier for the 2nd round). And thus, round 2 began. If the bar was high before, it was raised even higher, we had great performances all through. Clemency and Bankol got the first score of a "9" each from one of the judges, Olayinka Samson got a 10 and three 9's while Paul Word came close to a perfect 10 with three 10's and a 9. We also had great performances from Omolara, Nancee, Promise, Abe and Neofloetry. In the end it was cut down from 9 to 5 performers, Paul, Omolara, Samson, Clemency, and Bankol. And so, round two ended. The final round began with Bankol giving a spirited performance, Omolara wowing us once again then followed by Paul Word, who once again dazzled the crowd, shown like a million stars, by the time he dropped the microphone, the prize was already in the bag. The highlight of the 3rd round was the fierce battle for second and third places between Samurai and Igbor Clemency.
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hey performed three times each, and still it remained a tie, the judges deadlocked, the audience hit a brick wall, even the noise meter failed. In the end their fellow contestants decided it. With Olayinka Samson Aremu (Samurai) and Igbor Clemency Green facing the wall, each contestant voted by raising their hands. Majority of the hands went up for Samurai so the tie was finally broken. In the end it was Paul Word 1st, Olayinka Samson Aremu nd 2 , and Igbor Clemency Green 3rd. Paul and Samson shared tears of joy, and Samson made a touching dedication to his late mother. Clemency followed suit, making a dedication to his dear mother who was seated in the crowd cheering him on. War of words 4 raised the bar; it was unarguably the best I've attended in 2014. Who knows, I might give it a try one of this days, perhaps war of words 5, 6 or 7 who knows? Eko Poetry Slam was a grenade, but take this from me; War of words 4 was ATOMIC! By SAm dE Poet.
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VALENTINE POEMS FROM SAM DE POET MY POCKETS ARE EMPTY This thing called love 'tis so sweet In comparison honey tastes so, so bitter When you love, you'll soar so high Your wings you'll flap like a dove To get benjis you'll run hither, And then you'll run thither For her you'll aim for the sky, If you've been in love, you'll know that ain't no lie For this thing, you'll dream of castles made of glass For this thing called love, you'll work for shoes made of brass!
IS THIS LOVE I'M FEELING The greenery of leaves Sonorous singing of song birds Crystal clear blue sky Glowing of the sun All these speaks of you Of your beauty they speak The thumping of my heart Furtive glances when you aren't looking Day dreams of holding hands and sharing kisses Turning crimson red at the sight of you This stirring in my loins Of what do they speak? Don't they speak of you? Of love? This perpetual smile The sugary sweetness at the pit of my belly This feeling that you'll be mine And we will in a minute walk a thousand mile Is this me loving? Or lusting over your lush, ample, blossoming bosom? This new-found feelings, is it real? Or deceiving? Of what does it speak, my love? Or my lust love? This steady rhythm beating in my heart This never ending smile gracing my lips This sunny glow lighting up my face Making me divine, as divine as David's carved statue This fluttering butterflies lodged deep down in my belly Isn't it obvious? This can't be lust this sugary, sweet, sensations must be love!
BIO: Samuel Enobakhare Ogbemudia is the fourth child in a family of four, from Benin, Edo state Nigeria. He is an author, and have few poems authored in his pen-name Sam de poet in various blogs and social networking sites across the World Wide Web. Sam is an undergraduate at the University of Benin, Nigeria studying Mass Communication. He currently works part time at Word Rhymes and Rhythm group, which includes a college of poetry and a publishing outfit.
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Ten questions for PAUL WORD, winner of Nigeria's spoken word poetry competition 2014 PM: How much hard work did it take you to emerge winner at War of Words? PAUL: A lot of hard work and commitment, I had to let some things go if I knew I was going to win the competition. PM: Some poets and spoken word artists learn poetry on their own, is it the same with you? PAUL: Poetry for me was something I was born with, learning was just an additional ingredient for me, so yes I think I learnt it but not on my own, I had help with books and some few Sages. PM: For how long have you been a spoken word artist? PAUL: Since September 14 2014. PM: Which poets or spoken word artists do you look up to, and how have they inspired you? PAUL: Suli Breaks is one of the guys I look up to, in fact I think his works really influenced my decision to be a spoken word artist. PM: Apart from poetry, what other genre do you write? Short Stories. I write short stories. PM: When writing your poems, are you always aware of poetic devices or language, or do those elements enter unconsciously as you write? PAUL: I'm always aware of the poetic device but I never let it limit my writing. I don't let it limit my idea about the piece of writing. PM: Apart from winning war of words, which other poetry contest have you won? PAUL: None, War of Words is like my first major Spoken Word competition, and I thank God I won it. PM: What did you think made you win war of words, despite the strong opponents? PAUL: God and my strong will to succeed. PM: How do you plan to use the limelight you have gotten from War on Words? PAUL: Use it wisely, get shows that'll make the world get to know about me. PM: Where do you wish to see the Paul Word brand-name in the future? PAUL: Generally accepted by the public and known all over the world‌
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VALUES
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n life, there are some very important words, teachings or messages that cannot be overemphasized, so, they must continually be projected into the hearts of people to help and keep them on the right path, so they enjoy the blessings and riches that they carry. One of such is the role of love in relationships. We are speaking of the relationship between spouses, people preparing to get married, family members and friends. For the next couple of weeks I will be talking about values that bring out the best in any relationship. If you want a beautiful, love-filled and sweet relationship, then you don't want to miss any of these teachings. The very first we shall look at is the foundation and the bedrock. If only we all can embrace it, then we have a good chance of seeing that splendid picture of the relationship which we say from the beginning fulfilled. TIP ONE: SPIRITUAL FERVENCY By this I mean the continuous passionate dependence on the finished work of Christ Jesus and His loving grace to keep and see you through life's journey. Without this, your relationship won't enjoy the joy and bliss that God wants you to enjoy the way He wants you to. Our relationship with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, what I call the vertical connection, is the very first kind of relationship we should give priority to. This Vertical Connection with our Creator is what makes the horizontal connection with the people around us worthwhile. Two examples I'd love to give from scriptures that drive this home are the relationships between Adam and Eve, as well as that between Isaac and Rebecca. For Adam, before Eve came into his life he had already had an existing sweet fellowship with The Father which didn't slack even after Eve became his wife. Also, taking a look at Rebecca, scripture says she was attractive in appearance and of course, in character evidenced by the interaction she had with Abraham's servant which only could have been as a result of her personal relationship with the God of her fathers. So, we see here that rather than put the cart before the horse as some do today by wanting to run into a relationship, its imperative we do it right by first running after an intimate relationship with Christ Jesus. This way we can enjoy our relationships especially that which have to do with us spending the rest of our lives with one special person. If peradventure, reading through this you realize it has spoken to you and you have not come to accept Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior, please contact me today through my profile so I pray with you, lead you to Christ and always be here to counsel you so you can enjoy the best out of your relationships. God willing I'll share another very helpful tip in making your relationship wonderful.
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by: Blessing Ehigiator
LOVE'S UNIQUENESS
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o say that one waits a lifetime for his soul mate to come around is a paradox. People eventually get sick of waiting. Take a chance on someone, and by the art of commitment become soul mate, which takes a lifetime to perfect." - Criss Jami
Hebrew 11:1 (AMP) NOW FAITH is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see and the conviction of their reality [faith perceiving as real fact what is not revealed to the senses]. How do you know someone is just the right person for you? This was the exact question someone asked me. The first time this kind of question was asked me it hit me because I had no coordinated answer. In the past I had had to face such questions a couple of times and I was completely blank but this time around, I had a couple of things to say in response for which he was grateful afterwards. I thought to myself of how that this same question could be one defining factor for some who probably have given love a chance in the past, but failed at it when things got complicated. A lot of people today who have been in and out of relationships would really love to have this question answered for them. Well, I believe God's Word answers everything. Get your answer from the Word. My point is: Getting to know if someone is right for you truly depend on you and not on them. By that I mean what's your understanding about love? Some feel love is a feeling and then they wait for such feelings to take over their emotions before they can say they have found their soul mate or life partner. The problem with that is that when you find someone who makes you feel that way, your body might be telling you you're with the right person while your heart is telling you you're making a wrong move. Do you really want to follow your body and not listen to your heart? You were not designed to be led by your feelings. My dear friend, this thing is more than just the way you feel. Others look out for striking physical features in the opposite sex before they call it love. Some others believe that there is only one person in the whole world that is just their right person who can ever complement their need for love but are all these really true? The kind of love life you desire to see in your relationship/marriage depends totally on you, and the earlier one understands God's perspective on love for the purpose of marriage, the better. As you allow God's Word into your heart, He'll direct your heart to someone and at that point you should choose to love that person irrespective of whether you feel you're in love with them or not. Almost all the relationships in the Scriptures that culminated in marriage had one thing in common and that is, choosing life partners based solely on love being a decision, a commitment and also an act of faith. Some felt some form of love at the beginning, most of the others didn't. This aspect of walking by faith is what makes true love unique. I hope you know that love works by faith. True love rests and depends a lot on faith. Faith has to do with the Word you have heard and believed. You cannot be walking in faith when you have not opened yourself to being flooded by the Word of God. Faith comes as you hear His Words and love works by that faith. So, love has a lot to do with you having God's Word in your heart. The way God teaches us to choose is different from the way the world sees or chooses. Most times the world chooses based on selfishness, based on the senses, the outward appearance and things like that. If we operate as God teaches, we'll save time and avoid making costly mistakes. A marriage or a commitment that would last a lifetime is one which sticks to operating in the light of God's Word. Some people start right but then, quit giving God's Word its place of ruling the marriage and the home. Some start wrong but then, get it right and they begin to stick to the Word. Whichever way you started, get hooked on doing things the way of the Word. God's Word will last longer than anything and everything. It will keep standing when all else fails. If your relationship/marriage is hinged on God's Word, it will keep standing when all else has failed. Always remember that true love is always forgiving, giving and sacrificing. You may never have been in a relationship or you may have had several failed relationships, now I encourage you to choose by God's Word in order to have the right foundation for your marriage. Make that decision when the Word in your heart leads you, and stay committed to it for life. God bless you.
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by: Blessing Ehigiator
DOES HE REALLY LOVE YOU? L
ife can sometimes be full of uncertainties especially when it comes to issues of the heart. It could be disturbing when you suddenly find out that the relationship your good friend had with her partner for over three years hit the rocks and you're wondering, "What could have gone wrong? But they looked good together. They really cared about each other a lot and they had such a strong connect. They were even Christians! On and on you can go, trying to give reasons why they shouldn't have allowed such to happen, why they should have stayed together and hopefully tied the knot someday. But then reality sets in and you realize you have got some consoling to do. "Bibi, it was a mistake, the whole thing was." How in the world would you call a relationship that lasted for that long a mistake? Well, I have heard of various unfortunate reasons that have led to countless numbers of breakups. Truth is, there are a couple of factors that could be responsible for such heart breaks and some are handmade. By that I mean we were the architects of our own problems. Yes, others could be from our partners but rarely does that occur. I find that a lot of people these days are pretentious, acting and putting up character traits that are really not inbuilt, claiming and parading themselves as what they truly are not. There are some too, especially ladies who see clearly like the biblical handwriting on the wall, reasons why an imminent relationship would not/should not make it to the final destination, but still they go for it and continue in it because of pressure from their "biological clock", family, friends etc. Another reason why ladies stay stuck is when the lady was the one who did the initiation of the relationship rather than being the one to respond to the initiation from the opposite sex. There are several other reasons and the list of reasons can be endless. Right now though, we want to narrow this discussion to those signs a lady should look out for in a man. They could be very obvious just like icons on a computer screen. We're talking about what makes a man interested in a woman but would also want to make her a partner for keeps. These signs are both displayed consciously and unconsciously. We know that romantic love isn't always a good way to find out who you should be with for life but the truth remains that true love is romantic and should be romantic. True love makes a man who truly loves you act spontaneously and proactively. We know that naturally, men are not the emotional type as women are. Men are more interested in being objective and they have interests in things that can help them express power, produce results, achieve their goals etc. But when a man meets someone who genuinely makes him sing songs he never knew he could and put words together creatively in a new way; when he meets someone who makes him choose to walk the love walk, then he knows he has found a friend he wants to stick with for life. Ladies, these are some signs: 1) He helps you build a stronger relationship with God. 2) He loves your company right from the days of just being friends. Your friendship with him stands out and becomes much better when he makes his intentions known. 3) He encourages you to be a complete and independent lady, giving and being an example for the right path and directions to take to make you a better person. 4) He leads by example and does not dictate to you what he wants you to be. He fuels you in the areas he knows are your strengths and accepts your weaknesses. 5) He is committed to you in all ramifications especially emotionally and physically. 6) He is content and satisfied with you both your physical attributes and inward traits. 7) Communication is key. He does everything to always keep in touch with you. 8) His happiness and joy that you're in his life overflows that he cannot but showcase you to his world. 9) He gives and gives both his time and money to please you. 10) Guys are not very emotional but when he tells you and demonstrates to you that he loves you or misses you, then be reassured that he really does. 11) He loves public display of affection in his own way. 12) He respects you a lot and appreciates you much. 13) He is always willing to compromise. He tries to adjust his position so as to suit you both, not just himself. He doesn't just insist he's right all the time. 14) He apologizes for a wrong he was responsible for. 15) He knows you so well; he understands and interprets your body language better than anyone and even yourself sometimes. 16) When he talks about having a life and a future with you, then you know he isn't mincing words. 17) He tells his family about you and before long, he wants you to meet them. So ladies, that's how you know a man really loves you. I know some reading this are a bit disappointed because you didn't see sex as one of the points. My dear trust me, sex is the least important thing that helps you tell that a responsible man truly loves you, and wants to marry you. Sex does not even make the list. Of course, he really loves to have sex with you after he has married but he does not call for it before then. As a matter of fact, when sex becomes involved, chances are he doesn't even see you as his future wife. So, wake up and let the past slide. Learn the rhythms of God's wisdom and look forward to a brighter future. Ciao!
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by: Blessing Ehigiator
LOVE'S ORIGIN "If it's not over and above what is needed, it's not God's love. If it's not profuse, then it's not agape." - C.E.O 1Jn 4: 16 (ISV) We have come to know and rely on the love that God has for us. God is love, and the person who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him.
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specially welcome you to a brand new year. There's no better way to start the year than to set our eyes and our hearts firmly on God, the One who is the origin of love. As humans and as people who live in a world where almost everything is short lived, it's such a blessing to know that God's love is always there and always present for us. The Bible speaks about how that His love is everlasting. In an unstable world God shows us constant love. If you have any fears, the easiest way to chase them away is to fix your gaze on God's love until the light from His love shines into your soul and dispels every darkness of fear. The basics of love reveal that God is good and His mercy endures forever. The first eight verses of First Corinthians 13 do not just tell us how we should love, but first of all they actually show us who God is to us. Read it again. We can see each of these things listed there displayed in Jesus. Remembering these things helps us a great deal. It's important we know the love of God and then, that we rely on (rest our hearts in the reality of) this love. Wherever you are now, God's love can yet lift you higher. All His great plans for you are possible because of His love for you. You can expect great things this year because He loves you. The safest place to live is to live in God. No evil can harm you when you're living in God. I can tell you that this year will be both great and terrible. For those who disregard God and see no reason to hide in Him, lots of evil will befall them. But there will be people prospering and rising stronger in spite of the terrible things happening around. Those who live in God this year will be immune to and protected from the terrors and ills that will unfold this year. They will be like the Jews who prospered in the land of Goshen although the rest of Egypt was wasting away. The big question then is, how does one live in God? In today's text, John answers this question by saying we live in God by living in love. To abide or to live in love first of all means that we rely on God's love for us. This means receiving His love for us. We first have to receive it before we can give it. We cannot give what we do not have. In 2015 it is the love we have received that we can give. To really love people, you have to first see and believe that God really loves you. God wants us to love people profusely. He wants us to give them far more than what they deserve. He wants us to be good to them in spite of their failures. He wants people to look into our eyes and see hope. Let's go back to the origin of love and learn how to win in 2015. This year, if we'll do things as God says, we'll have loads of good testimonies in the course of the year. It's my prayer that you'll do things love's way this year. It's my prayer that you'll see God's love clearly this year. May His love calm your soul throughout this year and inspire you. It's my prayer that you also will calm the fears of others as you show them the same kind of love God has shown you. I wish you a happy and prosperous New Year.
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by: Blessing Ehigiator
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Website / Online Store www.lunaversoul.com Etsy Store www.lunaversoul.etsy.com Tel: (877) 333-1189
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Book Review: Open
Heavens
Author: Pastor E.A. Adeboye Publisher: Open Heaven Media Limited. Website: www.openheavensic.org ISSN: 2346 – 7134
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here is no better way to start a new year, than starting with God. Open Heavens is a devotional book with very attractive features that invites readers into early morning interaction with God.
The devotional is powerful, depthful and will direct the steps of a person who wishes to have a fulfilling year. The foreword was written by the author, who is known for his in-depth analysis of the word of God, and revelation that will turn the human soul into hallelujah bliss! It is designed to help the readers for 365 days, thereby making everyday fulfilling and blessed. The editing and proofreading are world-class! The graphical works are so artful that you may focus on the art and aesthetics, and forgetting the message. Books are written to add virtue to the human soul, this one not only pass that, but takes the reader to God's heaven, until you begin to read the days that have not come, because if its perfection.
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EVENT:
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ENDLESS LOVE
he Nuptial of Oluwadolapo Damilola and Ebunoluwa Abimbola was indeed a union blessed from heaven. The joy and happiness of members of the Oluwaniyi and Omole families as well as friends and well wishes knew no bounds! Saturday 20th of December, 2014 witnessed the wedding of the year at the Christ Living Apostolic Ministry (CLAM) at Plot 1-5, CLAM Avenue, Ojodu, Ikeja Lagos and the reception followed immediately at the CLAM Event Centre. It was an unforgettable and glamorous occasion; the pearls magazine team was available to cover the event. We wish the couple a blissful and fruitful married life!
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EVENT:
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ENDLESS LOVE
roto/credits: O'Salt photography
@08055420844 BBP: 7E252A15 For Enquiries & Advert Placement contact: www.facebook.com/pearlsmagazine Twitter:@pearlsmagazineN www.issuu.com/pearlsmagazine www.pearlsmagazineng.blogspot.com 07014626190, 09030199724, 08034288027.
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No: 4 March / April 2015 Edition