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Characterization of sequences in human TWIST required for nuclear localization
Twist is a transcription factor that plays an important role in proliferation and tumorigenesis. Twist is a nuclear protein that regulates a variety of cellular functions controlled by protein-protein interactions and gene transcription events. The focus of this study was to characterize putative nuclear localization signals (NLSs) 37RKRR40 and 73KRGKK77 in the human TWIST (H-TWIST) protein.
Using site-specific mutagenesis and immunofluorescences, we observed that altered TWISTNLS1 K38R, TWISTNLS2 K73R and K77R constructs inhibit nuclear accumulation of H-TWIST in mammalian cells, while TWISTNLS2 K76R expression was un-affected and retained to the nucleus. Subsequently, co-transfection of TWIST mutants K38R, K73R and K77R with E12 formed heterodimers and restored nuclear localization despite the NLSs mutations. Using a yeast-two-hybrid assay, we identified a novel TWIST-interacting candidate TCF-4, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor. The interaction of TWIST with TCF-4 confirmed using NLS rescue assays, where nuclear expression of mutant TWISTNLS1 with co-transfixed TCF-4 was observed. The interaction of TWIST with TCF-4 was also seen using standard immunoprecipitation assays.
Our study demonstrates the presence of two putative NLS motifs in H-TWIST and suggests that these NLS sequences are functional. Furthermore, we identified and confirmed the interaction of TWIST with a novel protein candidate TCF-4.
TWIST1 is a basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor
Potential functions of TWIST1 are not well defined. Previous studies have shown that Twist functions as a transcriptional repressor and is regulated by its dimerization with other bHLH-containing transcriptional factors. For instance, post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation can alter the dimerization preferences of Twist, promoting either homodimer or heterodimer formation
In this study, we identified two NLSs present at the N-terminal region of human TWIST rich in basic amino acids lysine and arginine. Using site directed mutagenesis and immunofluorescence assays, we studied the role of these two NLSs in nuclear localization. Yeast-two-hybrid and immunoprecipitation assays were also performed to identify TWIST-interacting proteins and gain a greater understanding of the mechanism responsible for H-TWIST localization and function.
Comparison of various Twist proteins
H-TWIST contains 202 amino acids
Figure 1
Protein sequences comparison among vertebrate TWIST family members
Protein sequences comparison among vertebrate TWIST family members. Alignment of amino acid sequences encoded by the Twist gene from different species showed beside the well known basic Helix-Loop-Helix (bHLH) motif, conservation in four additional protein regions. NLS1 and NLS2 mark putative nuclear localization signals. Gaps are indicated as hyphens. Black boxes indicate identical amino acids which are present in all species. Grey boxes are present in identical amino acid in six species and light grey boxes in five species, respectively. Alignment was generated by ClustalW.
Subcellular-localization of H-TWIST-NLS mutants
Localization of many transcription factors has been shown to be an important mechanism in the regulation of protein functions. Transcription factor proteins are nuclear proteins able to interact with gene regulatory sequences to activate gene expression. To facilitate monitoring of the cellular localization of TWIST, we generated a c-myc-TWIST fusion expression construct and mutated the putative NLS motifs shown in Table
Table 1
Subcellular localization of TWISTwt and NLS mutants.
Clone Name
The mutated amino acids are in bold and underlined. (+), indicates presence of protein within that subcellular compartment determined by immunofluorescence assays.
The recombinant TWISTWT protein localized exclusively to the nucleus of transient transfected cells, in agreement with a previous report on H-TWIST localization
Figure 2
Subcellular-localization of TWIST full length fusion protein was monitored in transfected U2-OS cells
Subcellular-localization of TWIST full length fusion protein was monitored in transfected U2-OS cells. Transfection with empty vector (pCMV) was used as a negative control and a c-myc β-galactosidase was the positive control. Expression of c-myc-TWIST proteins was detected by fluorescence using anti-c-myc antibody. DAPI staining (blue) indicates the nucleus, while phallodin (green) represents the actin cytoskeletal staining. (b) Expression level of TWIST wild type protein shown by Western blotting with anti-c-myc antibody.
Expressions of the TWIST fusion proteins were also examined by cellular fraction and immunoblotting. A single 28-kDa protein band was recognized for c-myc-TWISTWT by an anti-c-myc antibody (Fig.
Classical NLS motifs are composed of a basic amino acid stretch (K/R)4-6 preceded by a Gly, Pro, or an acidic amino acid residue
Figure 3
Mutational analysis of putative NLSs in H-TWIST were observed in U2-OS cells, the expression of c-myc-TWIST mutants were detected by fluorescence using anti c-myc antibody
Mutational analysis of putative NLSs in H-TWIST were observed in U2-OS cells, the expression of c-myc-TWIST mutants were detected by fluorescence using anti c-myc antibody. Nuclei were stained with DAPI (blue), and phalloidin (green) representing the actin cytoskeletal. Site-directed mutagenesis generated a single amino acid change, K38R, which was sufficient to block TWIST nuclear localization and, therefore, redistribute approximately 92% the mutant protein to the cytoplasm. Mutations in TWISTNLS2 at positions K73R and K77R also resulted in cytoplasmic expression, as approximately 83% and 87% of transfected cells had very low levels in the nucleus. (b) Analysis of expression levels of TWIST mutant constructs in cytoplasmic and nuclear fractions of transfected cells. Equivalent loading was determined by GAPDH and α-actin expression levels.
In biochemical experiments, TWIST NLS mutant proteins were in cytoplasmic fractions of transfected cells by immunoblot analyses. In these experiments, there were high levels of expression for the K38R and K73R mutants in the cytoplasmic lysate (Fig.
Rescue of mislocalization of TWIST mutants by co-transfection with heterodimer partner E12
bHLH transcriptional factor proteins are able to form either a homodimer or heterodimer with other bHLH protein for DNA binding. Given this property, we selected E12, a bHLH protein which forms a heterodimer with other bHLH proteins and also has been shown to interact with Twist
Figure 4
Rescue of mislocalization of TWIST mutant
Rescue of mislocalization of TWIST mutant. C-myc expression TWIST and TWIST mutant constructs with E12-eGFP were visualized with digital imaging. E12-eGFP construct expression was observed in the nucleus. E12-eGFP constructs were co-transfected with K38R, K73R and K77R mutants indicate the co-localization of E12 with TWISTNLS mutants into the nucleus.
In order to investigate direct interactions between TWIST and E12, the TWISTWT and TWISTNLS1 mutant with eGFP-E12 were transiently transfected into the cells. Here, we observed that the coexpression of TWISTNLS1 mutant K38R with E12 compensates for the mislocalization of this construct and results in the restoration of nuclear expression of the TWIST mutant. The same co-expression results were obtained using K73R and K77R with E12 (Fig.
Screening for TWIST interacting partners using yeast two hybrid assay
To gain additional insights into the roles of TWIST domains, we were interested in the identification of proteins interacting with TWIST, and thus utilized a yeast two-hybrid screening assay (Materials and Methods). We identified a TWIST-associated protein called Transcription factor 4 (TCF-4) also known as immunoglobulin transcription factor-2 (ITF-2), SL3-3 and enhancer factor-2 (SEF-2), (MIM 602272; Genbank accession
Table 2
TWIST interacting proteins were identified by yeast two hybrid experiments.
Gene Bank Acc.No.
mRNA Splicing factor 2
Nuclear protein
TCF4/SEF2-1A Transcription factor
HLH protein
pre mRNA splicing factor 2
Nuclear protein
pre mRNA splicing factor 2
Nuclear protein
Yeast two hybrid positive clones were identified by blast sequence analysis. Our clone ID, putative interacted protein name, subcellular localization and accession numbers are shown.
The interaction between TCF-4 and TWIST was confirmed in yeast by co-transformation TCF-4 plasmid and the TWIST bait plasmid on nutritional quadrate dropout plates with 1 mM 3-amino triazole to determine reporter gene activation. In this assay, p53/pGBKT7 clone transformed into AH109 mated with Y187 strain containing T7-antigene in pGADT7-vectors was used as a positive control, and p53/pGBKT7 in AH109 mated with LamC/pGADT7 transformed into Y187 was used as a negative control to confirm the specificity of the interaction. Only the yeast cells containing both TCF-4 and TWIST were able to grow on the nutritional dropout plates, suggesting the interaction between TCF-4 and TWIST was the result of specific binding (Fig.
Figure 5
Yeast mating to identify TWIST protein interactions
Yeast mating to identify TWIST protein interactions. (A) Yeast cells transformed with the indicated combinations of bait (pGBKT7-TWIST) and prey (pGAD-TCF-4) plasmids on YPD plate. Co-transformed yeasts were spotted on -Leu-Trp plate representing the successful cell mating (irrespective if fusion proteins interact); by colony lift assay. TWIST and TCF4 protein interaction was visualized on selective QDO Plates which contains -Leu-Trp-Met-His (quadrate drop out) reporter plates containing 1 mM 3-aminotriazole (3-AT). In this assay, p53/pGBKT7 clone transformed into AH109 mated with Y187 strain containing T7-antigene in pGADT7-vectors was used as a positive control and p53/pGBKT7 in AH109 mated with LamC/pGADT7 which was transformed into Y187 used as a negative control to confirm specificity of the interaction. (B) NLS rescue assay to study the ability of TCF-4 to assist in the nuclear localization of TWISTNLS1 mutants. Co-transfection of K38R, K73R, and K77R with TCF4 results in the restoration of TWIST mutants in the nucleus.
Confirmation of the TCF-4 and TWIST interaction by NLS rescue assay
As discussed above, TWIST is a nuclear protein that forms dimers with other HLH or bHLH protein, and mutations in TWIST NLSs result in nuclear mislocalization. Since we hypothesized that the co-transfection of TCF-4 with NLS deficient TWIST will restore protein localization to the nucleus, we performed additional NLS rescue assays, using c-myc TWIST expression constructs and co transfected with a TCF4-GFP construct. The empty GFP was distributed throughout the cell (data not shown), whereas TCF4-GFP expression was predominantly localized to the nucleus of cells (Fig.
Furthermore, having identified TCF-4 as an interacting protein for TWIST in the yeast two-hybrid assay, we examined the ability of TWIST to interact with TCF-4 protein in mammalian cells by performing immunoprecipitation from nuclear extract of HEK293T cells transfected with full length V5- tagged TWIST in the presence of CBP- tagged TCF-4. Immunocomplexes precipitated with anti-CBP antibody were resolved by SDS-PAGE and Western blotting using anti-V5 antibodies identified bands corresponding to the expected sizes of the TWIST showed the interaction between these two proteins (Fig.
Figure 6
Validation of the interaction of TWIST with TCF-4 using immunoprecipitation assays
Validation of the interaction of TWIST with TCF-4 using immunoprecipitation assays. (A) Expression of wild type TWIST was shown by Western blotting using the anti-V5 antibody, (B) HEK293 cells were co-transfected with plasmids expressing V5-HIS-TWIST and CBP-TCF-4. Two different CBP antibodies were used (clone ID; K-24 and W-15). W-15 was used for the immunoblot. IgG beads with protein and antibody, and beads without antibody were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Nuclear extracts were immunoprecipitated with anti-CBP tag antibodies (K-24 and W-15) bound resin, and the precipitated proteins were detected using anti-V5 antibody.
In this study, we identified two putative NLSs at the N-terminal region of TWIST and found that these NLSs mediate the expression of TWIST in the nucleus. An evolutionary alignment of Twist proteins amino acid sequences encoded from different species showed five different highly conserved regions NLS1, NLS2, NSEEE at N-terminal, WR at C-terminal and bHLH DNA binding domain. The HLH region is necessary and sufficient for protein dimerization
Nuclear localization signals in TWIST
The regulation of protein transport into the nucleus of a eukaryotic cell is mediated by specific nuclear localization signals (NLSs) recognized by protein import receptors
We mutated both of the predicted NLS lysine residues to determine their potential role in the importation of TWIST protein. The NLS1 mutant constructs were observed in the cytoplasm indicating that TWISTNLS1 is a functional NLS, which governs the nuclear import of TWIST. Previously, similar results were made for murine Dermo-1, a bHLH protein encoded by the
We also examined the functional role of NLS2 by mutagenesis and found that NLS2 likewise NLS1, also played an essential role in the nuclear import of TWIST protein. Although in this study we focused on the lysine residues within the NLS1 and 2 motifs, it is also possible that other residues within these domains may also contribute to nuclear localization. From our findings, it is concluded that sequences at the 38, 73, and 77 amino acid positions within the NLS domains are critical residues. In contrast, the 76 amino acid does not appear to be critical for nuclear import.
Heterodimerization of TCF-4 with TWIST and co-localization in the mammalian cells
H-TWIST belongs to a class of bHLH protein known to form stable heterodimers with members of class a bHLH transcription factors
In yeast-two-hybrid screening, we identified several novel proteins interacting with TWIST including a gene encoding the class I bHLH protein TCF-4 (transcription factor 4, also known as ITF-2; and SEF-2). The
In this study, we confirmed the heterodimerization of TCF-4 with TWIST in NLS rescue assays and
It has already been reported that protein transcription factors may possess more than one NLS
Plasmids construction
TWIST open reading frame (ORF) was amplified by PCR from human genomic DNA using oligonucleotides CGCGGATCCGCGATGATGCAGGACGTGTCC and CCGGAATTCCGGCTAGTGGGACGCGGACAT, containing
Site-directed mutagenesis
Table 3
Oligonucleotides used for mutagenesis reactions to alter NLSs sequences in TWIST.
Amino acid substituted in NLSs
Primer Sequence
K, lysine; R, arginine
Cell culture and transfection assay
Cell chamber slides were seeded with 1.5 × 105 U2-OS (Human osteosarcoma, ATCC) cells, and grown over night in DMEM (Gibco BRL) supplemented with 10% FBS containing 100 μg/ml penicillin and streptomycin. To select a cell line several factors were considered including growth conditions, proliferation ability and ease of transfection. Considering all factors together, several cell lines were used here including OHS, CCL-136, COS7 and U2-OS. Finally, we selected U2-OS cells for further studies. The cells were transiently transfected with 500 ng of plasmid by using Effectene (QIAGEN) according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Immunofluorescence assays
Culture chamber slides were fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde for 20 min at 25°C, and permeabilized with 0.2% Triton X-100 for 5 min. Subsequently, these slides were incubated for 1 h at 37°C with the mouse monoclonal anti-c-myc primary antibody (Molecular Probes, 1:200 dilution). Slides were further incubated in secondary antibody (Texas Red conjugated goat anti-mouse IgG; Molecular probes, 1:1000 dilution) for 1 h at 37°C. The slides were washed and incubated with phalloidin for 20 min at 25°C and incubated with DAPI at 25°C for 3 min and then mounted by using Vector Shield (Vector Laboratories, CA, USA).
Protein extraction and Western immunoblot analysis
To confirm the expression of TWIST and TWIST NLSs in transfected U2-OS cells for immunoblot analysis, cytoplasmic fractions were isolated from these transfected cells by scraping after 24 h of incubation and then centrifuged for 5 min. The cells were lysed with NP40-containing lysis buffer (10 mM Tris, pH 7.4, 10 mM NaCl, 5 mM MgCl2, 0.5% NP-40) to disrupt the cell membrane and then the cell lysate was centrifuged at 500 × g for 5 min at 4°C. The supernatant (cytoplasmic fraction) was removed and the pellet (nuclear fraction) was resuspended in NP-40 containing cell lysis buffer. Proteins were denatured by boiling in sample buffer, separated on 12% SDS-PAGE and then transferred onto the PVDF membrane (Immobilon TM-PSQ, Millipore) and blocked overnight in 5% non-fat powdered milk in TBST (10 mM Tris-HCl pH7.5, 100 mM NaCl, 0.1% (v/v) Tween 20). Mouse monoclonal anti c-myc antibody (1:1000 diluted in TBST) (Molecular probe) used for protein detection. Peroxidase conjugated goat anti-mouse IgG (1:10,000 diluted in TBST) (Sigma, Missouri, USA) was used as a secondary antibody.
Yeast-two-hybrid assay
The full-length TWIST was used as a bait protein. After transformation of pGBKT7-TWIST into yeast strain AH109, expression of the fusion protein GAL4-BD-TWIST was confirmed by PCR (as described Clonetech Manual). Yeast strainY187 with pretransformed human placental cDNA library was mated with AH109 strain containing pGBKT7-TWIST, and the cells were then plated onto SD/-Ade/-His/-Trp/-Leu plates to screen the expression of ADE2 and His3 genes (Fig
Pulldown assays with IgG agarose beads
Mammalian expressed, affinity tagged proteins were purified from transfected cells using IgG agarose beads. Fifty microlitre of a 50% (v/v) agarose beads slurry containing 10–50 μg of purified V5-His-tagged protein were incubated with 100 μg of purified CBP fused protein in a total volume of 200 μl TBS containing 0.1% (v/v) BSA. Following a 2 h incubation with continuous rotation at 4°C, the agarose beads were washed 5 × 10 min at 4°C with the same buffer and 2 × 5 min in TBS without BSA. Agarose beads were mixed with an equal volume of 2× loading buffer and bound proteins were eluted by incubation for 1 h at 4°C and were subsequently separated by SDS-PAGE gels.
Authors' contributions
SS performed all of the experiments and drafted the manuscript. AOG defined the research theme, assisted in experimental design and edited the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
We are grateful to Dr. Jürgen Kunz in whose laboratory some of this research was performed (Philipps-University Marburg, Germany). This work was supported by a grant from the International Graduate School "GRK767" funded by the German Research Foundation and the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Ontario (NA-5884 and T-6281). AOG is a New Investigator of the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and Canada Research Chair.
The twist gene: isolation of a Drosophila zygotic gene necessary for the establishment of dorsoventral pattern
Interactions between heterologous helix-loop-helix proteins generate complexes that bind specifically to a common DNA sequence
MyoD family: a paradigm for development?
Cell lineage determination and the control of neuronal identity in the neural crest
The bHLH factors, dHAND and eHAND, specify pulmonary and systemic cardiac ventricles independent of left-right sidedness
twist is required in head mesenchyme for cranial neural tube morphogenesis
M-twist is an inhibitor of muscle differentiation
The basic domain of myogenic basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins is the novel target for direct inhibition by another bHLH protein, Twist
Ein Beitrag zum Turmschadelproblem (Pathogenese, Erblichkeit und Symptomologie)
Eine eigerartige familiare Entwicklungsstorung (Akrocephalosyndaktylie, Dystosis craniofacialis und Hypertelorismus)
Saethre-Chotzen mutations cause TWIST protein degradation or impaired nuclear location
Twist, a master regulator of morphogenesis, plays an essential role in tumor metastasis
Altered Twist1 and Hand2 dimerization is associated with Saethre-Chotzen syndrome and limb abnormalities
Twist1 dimer selection regulates cranial suture patterning and fusion
The control of gene expression by regulated nuclear transport
Transport between the cell nucleus and the cytoplasm
Mutations in TWIST, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, in Saethre-Chotzen syndrome
The mesoderm specification factor twist in the life cycle of jellyfish
Invertebrate myogenesis: looking back to the future of muscle development
Cloning of a Twist orthologue from Enchytraeus coronatus (Annelida, Oligochaeta)
Functional analysis of natural mutations in two TWIST protein motifs
Phosphorylation near nuclear localization signal regulates nuclear import of adenomatous polyposis coli protein
Consequences of heteromeric interactions among helix-loop-helix proteins
Regulation of histone acetyltransferases p300 and PCAF by the bHLH protein twist and adenoviral oncoprotein E1A
A twist code determines the onset of osteoblast differentiation
Nuclear targeting sequences – a consensus?
Sequence requirements for nuclear location of simian virus 40 large-T antigen
Two interdependent basic domains in nucleoplasmin nuclear targeting sequence: identification of a class of bipartite nuclear targeting sequence
The binding site of karyopherin alpha for karyopherin beta overlaps with a nuclear localization sequence
Nucleocytoplasmic transport
Dermo-1, a multifunctional basic helix-loop-helix protein, represses MyoD transactivation via the HLH domain, MEF2 interaction, and chromatin deacetylation
Two distinct transcription factors that bind the immunoglobulin enhancer microE5/kappa 2 motif
Gene array analysis of osteoblast differentiation
A splice variant of E2-2 basic helix-loop-helix protein represses the brain-specific fibroblast growth factor 1 promoter through the binding to an imperfect E-box
Twist is required for establishment of the mouse coronal suture
Very high frequency of hypermethylated genes in breast cancer metastasis to the bone, brain, and lung
Analysis of the inhibition of MyoD activity by ITF-2B and full-length E12/E47
A new homeobox gene contributes the DNA binding domain of the t(1;19) translocation protein in pre-B ALL
Isolation of two E-box binding factors that interact with the rat tyrosine hydroxylase enhancer
Putative nuclear localization signals (NLS) in protein transcription factors
The effects of variations in the number and sequence of targeting signals on nuclear uptake
Molecular cloning: a laboratory manual
A simple and highly efficient procedure for rescuing autonomous plasmids from yeast


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There is a lot of mixed information regarding the use of saunas for diabetics. In all cases, diabetics should consult a doctor before using a sauna. Before doing so, however, it is a good idea to be informed of the benefits and concerns of saunas and diabetics.
Basic Physiological Reaction to Saunas
When the human body is exposed to the kind of intense heat produced by a sauna, the capillaries dilate, so the heart has to work harder to send blood to them. Because high blood pressure and other heart concerns are common for diabetics, it is clear to see the potential danger of saunas for diabetics. Additionally, saunas typically dehydrate the body by releasing sweat through the skin's pores. This also poses a potential danger for diabetics.
Effect of Heat on Insulin Absorption
According to a 1980 study published by V.A. Koivisto in the "British Medical Journal," "the rate of insulin delivery from the injection site affects the blood glucose concentration." Exercise accelerates insulin absorption, while rest can slow it. Because the blood flow in the skin is dependent on environmental temperature, the heat in saunas accelerates blood flow and, therefore, insulin absorption. Koivisto's study, which looked at diabetics in Finland who regularly take saunas, revealed that after the sauna, blood flow decreased, which slowed down insulin absorption.
Saunas with Infrared Lamps
Infrared lighting has been shown to improve the condition of diabetic neuropathy. Infrared lighting reduces the numbing conditions and causes molecules of nitric oxide to be released from hemoglobin in the bloodstream, which, in turn, increases blood flow. This is particularly beneficial to diabetics who suffer from poor blood circulation to the feet and other extremities. Saunas with infrared lamps are also less hot than typical saunas, so the heart does not have to work so hard in these saunas to manage the heat.
For diabetics to get the benefit of saunas, especially saunas with infrared lighting, the level and intensity of the heat must be monitored and kept within moderate limits. With a doctor's approval and careful moderation, diabetics should be able to enjoy the benefits of a sauna without harm. The key, of course, is in moderation. Diabetics should also be especially careful to keep hydrated and to replenish the body with minerals such as copper, iron, magnesium and zinc after spending time in a sauna.
Careful Choice
If you are diabetic and want to take a sauna, you need to know your condition and be aware of symptoms that should cause alarm. First, you should consult your doctor before taking a sauna. Second, look for a sauna that makes use of infrared lighting, as this is most beneficial to diabetics. Finally, take precautions to not overheat and to replenish your body with fluids and minerals after the sauna.
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In Reply to: RE: Danley installation at the new Mercedes Benz stadium in Atlanta posted by Inmate51 on April 05, 2017 at 09:26:57
The "mini van" comment was an attempt to make a humorous parody (in automotive terms) of your dismissive suggestion that Tom Danley contact a competitor to learn something. As to whether your suggestion or my parody is the harsher of the two, I'll leave it to the comments from the other posters from that now found original post.
I have nothing against arrays, Don Keele's CBT36 array is one of the most amazing speakers I've ever heard. With all the reverence you read in Stereophile and TAS for the "soundstage", the CBT36's really delivered, they have a stable center phantom image even if you walk towards them until you are between them! They are low efficiency though. I had Don play my fave test track: Stravinsky's Fireworks on Mercury CD, and I had him adjust the volume where I would have it at home to show off my EV horn rig. The 700 Watt amp hard clipped at one of the orchestral peaks, but it never clips on my horns with 15 Watts per channel (though I haven't watched it on a scope). This is the problem with arrays in pro-sound: whether you can accept the low efficiency in order to get the space they save over a big horn rig. I also heard the CBT36's at an AES demo with 2000 Watts and there was no clipping even at quite loud levels. Arrays have always seemed to me to take second banana to big horn rigs in pro-sound, and that's just been my experience. As far as I know I've never heard any of John Meyer's products, and I would not have any reason to make any comments either way about them. If you think the Meyer arrays sound better than Tom's Unity designs, then you should explain why, and I think you would actually need to hear Tom's Unitys to make a credible comparison, and you have not said if you have heard them.
You claim that you don't have a beef with Tom Danley other than what you see as self promotion. In the past Tom has had a stalker on this forum, and your dismissive comments and anonymous moniker have a similar style to some of the multiple personalities that person was known to use. Just a coincidence? I still dunno.
Tom has a history on this forum of offering frequent helpful discussion of what can be complex engineering concepts. Most people here would accept some self promotion, especially if it's used to explain complex acoustic subjects. Bruce Edgar once stated that much of his efforts went into educating people about common misperceptions about horns. Sound Practices editor Joe Roberts has noted the extreme resistance he encountered when he promoted horns as the ultimate speakers for the then new to the US SET's. Your main contribution here seems to be to tell people not to bother with horns. You made a comment in the post down page from this thread that the "they are here" nature of a recording is largely due to the recording itself. If this were true we could all save a lot of money and just worry about having good recordings. J.C. Morrison basically told Herb Reichert this back in the day, until Herb corrupted him by introducing him to SET's.
Follow Ups:
I don't know what your problem is regarding me, but you seem to have a bug up your butt for some reason.
In any case, you wrote:
"In the past Tom has had a stalker on this forum, and your dismissive comments and anonymous moniker have a similar style to some of the multiple personalities that person was known to use. Just a coincidence?"
You really need to back off on this, unless you're fine with being a stalker yourself.
I think Tom is a fine and knowledgeable person. We just disagree now and then. No big deal.
Did I mention the Matterhorn LOUDspeaker? Oh, yes, I DID. Did I mention that I quite like his tapped horn "point source" approach? Oh, yes, I DID.
"As far as I know I've never heard any of John Meyer's products, and I would not have any reason to make any comments either way about them."
That's all fine and good. But you've probably heard or seen them, and just don't know it. Maybe you were at AES in 2014 in L.A. His speakers were everywhere. The roster of clients is a "who's who" of musicians and concert events and venues. Anyway, it doesn't matter - as I wrote, we haven't talked in 20 years. I'm not a fanboy... he knows his stuff, and that's all. Next time I'm in Berkeley, I'll see if we can get together. Please, give it a rest.
Edits: 04/05/17
Many of your posts are like quantum super positions in that they can be in different places at the same time. Your suggestion that Tom contact Meyer sound and learn something could be taken for instance as an insult, and Tom took the high road in his reply. Or it could be taken as hilarious with Tom taking the part of the straight man. Your posts are funnier than my one dimensional posts, and I'm just plain jealous I have to admit.
In the horn thread down page you objected to the term "beaming" being used in relation to Quads, and you suggested that the poster read Olson's Music, Physics and Engineering. I got out my Dover reprint from the 70's but there is no listing of "beaming" in the index. I decided to take a chance and used the book as a planchette on a ouija board. I waited several minutes but the book never moved, though I mentally prepared myself for a message such as "Renounce horns!" which never came. Then it dawned on me that you can't experience beaming if there is no music playing on the speakers, and like a dope I forgot to put anything on. Very clever sir! I never would have tried this if it wasn't for you.
If you really want to distance yourself from the ghosts of sock puppets past you could try to be less argumentative and more helpful, but maybe I'm missing something there too. I suspect that you actually like horns but are making pejorative comments about them in an effort to get the prices down on vintage compression drivers. If so I salute your efforts. Of course I have to keep opening my big yap praising horns which is contra to this end. So I'll be looking for secret meaning in your posts in the future.
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Alejandro Suárez
Ensalada de Locos: Vol. 2
Classic characters, such as Vulgarcito, Los Orates, Las Hermanitas Mibanco, Pepe Nador, El Simpatias and more return for this second set of one of Mexico's best-loved comedy variety shows. Containing hours of laughs with all its classic sketches, talented comedians, including Lucho Navarro, Guillermo Rivas, Bozo the Clown and Manuel "Loco" Valdes, add to the hilarity, as do the collection's featured never-before-seen outtakes.


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The vehicle in your driveway is head and shoulders above the rest compared to all the other cars, trucks, and SUVs currently being driven today. Chrysler vehicle enthusiasts have grown accustomed to a certain level of high-value when driving their PT Cruiser around town. When your Chrysler PT Cruiser left the factory, it was destined for a driver who prioritizes a trusted name in their automobile. While it may not be difficult to locate replacement parts for Chrysler vehicles, these days only the absolute best are required to fix your automobile.
Chassis flex is the enemy of a firm and stable suspension. To ensure your suspension keeps your vehicle under control, Chrysler PT Cruiser sway bar links are attached to the stabilizer bar and the control arms. Without a stabilizer bar or sway bar links, the chassis would lean away from every turn you make. This was first tested on race cars at the beginning of the 20th century, and now sway bar links have made their way to almost every production vehicle manufactured today; including your Chrysler PT Cruiser.
When your Chrysler needs a top quality replacement Sway Bar Link, there's no need to go somewhere besides the authority, Car Parts Discount. At Car Parts Discount, we have real customer support agents on the phone with enough expertise to help you purchase the appropriate Chrysler PT Cruiser part for your needs. Given all the hassles associated with performing maintenance on your car or truck, let www.carpartsdiscount.com be the most authoritative website you go to make buying it easy. Just choose your year from the list below to find the right Chrysler PT Cruiser Sway Bar Link for your 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, 2003, 2002, 2001 model.


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Engine:350 Chevy
Vehicle Title:Clear
For Sale By:Private Seller
Exterior Color: Black
Make: Oldsmobile
Interior Color: Brown
Model: Cutlass
Number of Cylinders: 8
Trim: T-Tops
Drive Type: Auto
Mileage: 1
Rome City, Indiana, United States
Here is a very strong, very straight, and very fun Cutlass Supreme!!!
Less than 1500 mi. on the build!!! 350 Chevy, 4 bolt mains, steel crank, with all the good stuff... Keith Black, Edelbrock, Crane Cam, B&M, etc...... I have not put this on a dyno, but we estimate H.P. to be around 375-400 depending on the build. Auto trans with B&M kit and floor shifter, posi rear, racing shocks, steel cowl hood.
Custom black paint with copper semi ghost flames, custom interior... The build was done at Montoya's Customs in Kendallville, Indiana.
Oh... Did I mention this is a T-Top car?!?!?!?
This thing drives real good, pulls strong and turns heads everywhere it goes. It is not a 100K show car, there are some very minor things here and there that have nothing to do with it's performance! This car was built as a fun weekend hot-rod.
Spring is here and this car is ready to go!!!!
I am selling to help fund another project, and to free up some room in my shop. I have kept this car covered and in a heated shop for most of it's life.. Clear title in hand... Come and get it!!!!
Please don't bid if you don't intend to pay... I've got good $$ and time invested in this car, and really just want it to go to a good home...
Thanks for looking, and bid to win!!!
Ever since Gran Turismo 4, Jay Leno has had at least one of his cars included in the popular racing simulator (starting with the Tank Car), and more of his machines appears in Gran Turismo 6. They include this nose-heavy, front-wheel-drive V8-powered muscle car. Yes, that aptly describes a 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado - except Leno's is rear-wheel drive. And it has a Cadillac CTS-V race engine modified to pump out 1,070 horsepower.
For the latest Jay Leno's Garage episode, he takes his real Toronado out for a cruise and then drives the virtual one like he stole it, accruing some body damage along the way. Leno also drives the virtual supercar Mercedes-Benz designed for GT6, the AMG Vision Gran Turismo Concept that debuted at the LA Auto Show, along with the real one, which is a 1:1-scale model. The model is radio-controlled and equipped with a small electric motor, sufficient to move it on and off of auto show floors.
Head below to watch the episode, which includes a few words from GT6 creator Kazunori Yamauchi.
The last time I roped a coworker into an automotive debate, I lost. Resoundingly, I might add. Still, 2,385 voters chose to cast their lots for the Fiat 500 Abarth, as opposed to 5,273 choosing the Ford Fiesta ST, and so I can rest easy in the knowledge that at least 30 percent of you, dear readers, see things my way. I still like to think we have more fun, too.
My loss in the first round of our This or That series, in which two Autoblog editors pick sides on any given topic and then attempt to explain why the other is completely wrong, didn't stop me from picking another good-natured fight, this time with Senior Editor Seyth Miersma. Last time, our chosen sides were eerily similar in design, albeit quite different in actual execution. This time, our vehicular peculiarities couldn't seemingly fall any further from one another: A 1980 Oldsmobile 442 wouldn't seem to match up in comparison to a 1989 BMW 635CSi.
How did we come up with such disparate contenders? Simple, really. Seyth and I mutually agreed to choose a car that's currently for sale online. It had to be built and sold in the 1980s, and it had to be a coupe. The price cap was set at $10,000. The fruits of our searching labors will henceforth be disputed, with Seyth on the side of the Germans, and myself arguing in favor of the Rocket Olds. Am I setting myself up for another lopsided loss?
If you have a need to relive the 1970s, then here is the vehicle for you. This groovy blast from the past is a 1976 GMC Motorhome currently for auction in Florida on eBay Motors, and it is one green machine - just not in the modern sense.
The seller claims that this beast has had just two owners and has covered a mere 61,308 miles in its decades on the road. It's reportedly never been restored or repainted and comes with all of the necessary books and manuals. A 7.5-liter (455-cubic-inch) Oldsmobile V8 with a three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission powering the front wheels propels this far-out RV, and the double set of rear wheels out back use a self-leveling air suspension to provide a cushy ride.
The purported low miles and good condition really make this GMC a stand out, though. The exterior combination of lime stripes and beige with just a touch of green is like nothing else on the road today. Plus, the polished bumpers and wheels make it all pop. Inside, it's even better with monochromatic green upholstery and shag carpet. It features everything you'd ever need on a long trip, including a bathroom, kitchenette and lots of seating. The only hint of modernization is an HD TV next to the stove, but its size is a perfect fit for the hole there.
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text: Wireless industry must rise to the challenge to change the world for good07 Jul 2014 11:05 AM Cambridge Wireless conference focuses on role of wireless to meet global economic, environmental and societal challengesWireless technologies have a critical role to play in making a positive change to peoples' lives and helping to address societal and global challenges, according to leading industry experts, academics and humanitarian and international development specialists speaking at this week's 2014 Future of Wireless International Conference in Cambridge, organised by Cambridge Wireless (CW) in partnership with UKTI. The two-day conference attracted over 400 senior delegates from around the world to debate a wide range of topics from economic development and improving literacy and health, to ensuring public safety, supporting sustainability of the earth's resources and cultivating entrepreneurship. Dr Sally Uren, chief executive at Forum for the Future (pictured below), kicked off her keynote with the incredible statistic that out that of a global population of around 7 billion people, 6 billion have mobile phones, while only 4.5 billion have access to sanitation. "Digital technologies have shown time and time again that they have the potential to disrupt established systems and hasten the transition to a positive and sustainable future," said Dr Uren. However, too many technology solutions ignore the gap between technology and the human user and failure to bridge this gap nullifies the success of the entire venture." Connectivity is now seen as a fundamental human right by many and while people used to fear technology, they now they demand it, said Carolina Costa, managing director at Orange Innovation UK: "The digital and ever more interconnected world is about to break out from behind our screens and become the air around us. It will change the way we act and interact with the 'real' world around us." Caroline Costa, MD Orange Innovation UK and Daniel Gurrola, VP, Business Vision, Orange (pictured below), looked at some of the global forces that will shape our future and suggested that the digital and physical worlds will be more and more connected over the next 20 years. We will have sensors in our bodies; perhaps even implanted calling mechanism implanted. The psychological acceptance for this will be driven by healthcare, when a body full of sensors will be the norm.The pair suggested that connectivity is a human right, but asked whether there a danger of un-evolvement of humans if we rely too heavily on technology. However, their view was that won't happen as we'll just concentrate on the areas that matter most.They felt that demographics will play a major part in shaping wireless, as we "break out from behind our screens and become the air around us". The online is as much the real world as the 'real offline world' to the business leaders of tomorrow – the millennials, as they dubbed them. "Millennials are much more trusting of technology , things like online payments, as they are the first generation to know only mobile phones."Costa and Currola also pointed out that by 2034, the only life the leaders of our businesses, governments and societies will have known is one immersed in tech. "We need to think about how demographics are evolving and how digital technology fits into this."They suggested they Western world in particularly, with its declining birth rates and ageing non-working population, will need to reconsider its current attitudes to keeping immigrants out. We also need to be careful of what happens to natural resources, as we are living beyond our means. "Technology can help, but some things are irreversible and the millennials will have to face this. Just think of all the electricity needed to run all our data centres. This is going to be a fundamental for us; we need power for all our data, but it will come at a high price. We need a renewable global grid and we need to reduce our use of fossil fuels and look at alternatives."Summing up Costa and Guerrola said that technology will radically alter our world, but the fundamentals of humanity will not change. We need a more ethical stance: in a world where everything is possible, where do you draw the line on privacy issues, identity issues, governance – new ways are needed to govern this digital world.Orange – moving out of just telecoms: innovation won't be restricted to telecoms – joining with other verticals for innovations.Prof. Simon Saunders, co-founder of Real Wireless and founding chairman of the Small Cell Forum (pictured below), spoke about the impact wireless communications and inequality of service. "Phones and smartphones can have dramatic effects on GDP and on quality of life - a GSMA report by Deloitte found that just a 10 per cent rise from 2G to 3G penetration increases GDP per capita growth by 0.15 percentage points," said Prof Saunders. "The cost of providing coverage to 500 million people in remote areas can be reduced to affordable levels by using repurposed metrocell style technology, resulting in potential savings per person of around 50% over macrocell based approaches." At the Conference, Real Wireless unveiled its new 'Real Wireless – Wireless for Good' initiative, offering both funding and pro bono assistance, with Télécoms Sans Frontières as the first beneficiary. For more on this see separate story here. Representatives from some of the biggest wireless technology providers were optimistic about what can be achieved. Dr Finbarr Moynihan, general manager - Corporate Sales (Intl.) at MediaTek talked about the company's vision to deliver technology that enhances and enriches lives in the most inclusive manner possible. "We see significant opportunity for wireless technology to transform areas such as education, health, computing and entertainment. We call this idea 'Everyday Genius' and everything we do is dedicated to making it happen." The conference culminated with the Cambridge debate: "This house believes that emerging economies need technology transfer, not first-world products". Chaired by Peter Day, business correspondent for BBC Radio 4 and BBC World Service, the motion was supported by Prof H Nwana, director/CEO, Atlantic Telecoms and Media and opposed by Prof Jaideep Prabhu, director of the Centre for India and Global Business, Judge Business School, University of Cambridge. After some passionate speeches and debate, the motion was passed with a significant majority. "Wireless technology has arguably had more impact on the world than any other human invention in such a short space of time," said David Cleevely CBE, Chair of CW. "But the overriding message from the conference is that there is still a lot more we can do, to harness a new generation of 'connected citizens' and create opportunities for millions more individuals, societies and businesses." Other speakers at the CW conference included, Angela Baker, senior manager, Qualcomm Wireless Reach; Steve Jones, chair of trustees at the Humanitarian Centre and Pete Hutton, EVP and President of Product Groups at ARM.See also: Internet can empower women and eradicate inequalities says Cherie Blair James Atkinson EditorLinkedIn |Google + |Email Leave a CommentPlease write code to prove you're humanMore on... Critical CommunicationsFinland and Norway sign cross-border TETRA communication dealCC Europe 2017: Hytera showcasing new base station and handheld radioMore on... Cambridge WirelessDigital Catapult selects six IoTUK Boost partnersFacing up to the IoT security threat


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Decision makers
- Bistro Byronz, Shreveport
Bistro Byronz, Shreveport: Terminate the homophobic General Manager
A friend of mine was recently FIRED for his sexual orientation, and in today's time, and the laws that prevent this type of discrimination, NOBODY should have to deal with this type of attitude, or hatred in the workplace.
- Bistro Byronz, Shreveport
REHIRE the Manager that was fired for his sexual orientation
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text:
Tuesday- 08:32 a.m.
My scout called me again the following day. So I woke up early for my exercise routine. I needed to think, reflect and plan. So I went jogging.
When I got back to the house; I took a long bath. When I was done with the makeup; -I put on a conservative cream white Armani Cullezioni fold over to the knee dress, a black set of jewels and sky blue stilettos.
I viewed my sexy frame through huge mirror between my bedroom and the bathroom. I knew I looked extremely gorgeous.
I then headed to the meeting with my scout. We met for breakfast at 08:30 a.m. To my surprise, he was happy to see me.
"You look amazing honey." Francois said smiling. He then gave me a peck on the cheek. He was tall. Almost taller than me. He was also was skinny, always wore formal clothes and his hair all curled up. He was a vision of dirty and clean at the same time.
Francois was Italian. He had worked all over Africa, Italy and the United States as a fashion designer. He is the most sought after agent, and I was one of his discoveries.
He held my hand as we walked inside the restaurant.
He said-"You know when they saw the pictures they were obviously worried about the image of the agency. But I have a proposition for you."
I was curious. We then picked a table against the wall at a far corner. The restaurant was a bit empty. He dragged the chair out for me. "Thank you." I voiced. We sat down.
He said- "Pase magazine has been pressing me for like two years now. To find an African model that would grace their covers." I was listening. I ordered coffee and toasted bread. He ordered just coffee.
"Oh Caro, dear… Excuse my impudence. How are you dealing with everything? The photos everywhere…you must be very much stressed?" he said with his Italian accent and scanning my face.
"Uhm I'm okay François. I'm coping…I'll be fine, you know me." I just wanted him to circle back to what he was saying, – "Please continue."
After pouring his sugar; slowly stirring and carefully moving the spoon against the cup; I was agitated. He tasted the coffee. After what I assume was satisfaction; he then finally continued. – "They want a dark, beautiful, young black diamond from Africa." he was suddenly enthusiastic about what he was saying all over again. It was interesting to watch him explaining with a broad smile. "And here you come to my mind. I said to myself- of course Phontsho will do this. I don't know what took me so long to realise this. Maybe I thought you were not ready?"
He beckoned the waitress and ordered more coffee. I was half excited about what he was telling me. I did not know quite exactly where he was headed.
"Well? They want me to be on their cover?" I asked. The man was so oddly rapt on his coffee. It was so awkward. I knew even if I said anything in between he wouldn't respond. So I just waited in silence. At a time he had about four sips; he then came back. "Oh yes they do. They were also impressed with your, your recent pictures?"
"Really? When did this all happen?"
"Yesterday! Yesterday dear! I e-mailed them myself and I said- I have your girl!" I was beaming.
He then instantly said- "And they want you to pose nude." that was like a gun blast! I didn't know what to say that will come out right. I was not impressed. I guise I should have seen it coming. I just thought they wanted me maybe in a swim suit, lingerie, or wearing something. But not stark-naked!
I had to be careful with how I answer him. I said- "Uhm, I don't think that I can-" he interrupted me,-"No, no dear. Legs, thighs, and your face will be shown. Your chest and privates will be covered. Never mind the pictures, don't worry. That's your private life, okay?"
He leaned slowly towards me, and held both my hands, -"This is a wise move for you dear. You will be known all over if you do that cover. Right now you are just an African model. You have to see the world"
"Okay I will think about it."
"Do that. I won't push you." He added- "A lot of models have done this. And it worked out well for them. It is a good platform. Pase is one of the biggest magazines in the entire world."
"I know, I know. I will think about it."
He then went back to his coffee. When he finished; he informed me about the schedules for my photo shoots at the agency and places we needed to go. He left the bill with me and left.
I sat there for a while trying to gather how this could be happening. Wow, I thought.
The restaurant was now getting packed.
While I was deep in my thoughts and opting to leave; two teenage girls in school uniforms were now pointing at me from the counter. One was black and the other white. I gathered they were friends. I tried looking away. However, after being sure about what they were deliberating; – they came scuttling to my table.
The black one said-"Hello Pontso. This is my friend Michelle and I'm Karabo …uhm can we please take a picture with you?"
"Uhm I don't-"
"Please." Said Michelle; her freckles complementing her face somehow
"Okay fine."
I was really not in the mood. Karabo handed her phone and back pack to Michelle. She was now too comfortable busy kissing my cheeks. Oh my Lord, this can't be life.
"Now my turn please. Karabo that's enough."
They were now giggling and making girly noises. Karabo took five photos; and touching me the whole time. The poses were ridiculous!
"I just want two. We are taking her time Karabo. Quick." Karabo then gave in and Michelle took hers as well.
It was like being surrounded by playful toddlers crawling between your legs. And all you have to do is stand and let them play. "Okay that's enough guys. I have to go." I said. Michelle immediately said-"Thank you so much. I love you Phontsho. I want to be a model as well." She looked happy. But she looked too short to be a model.
I said to her- "Then you better get started girl.
They then just both gazed up at me with ardent admiration like am a god. When I grasped my handbag from the table;- they started pushing each other side to side like five year olds.
I gathered they wanted to ask me something. I looked around awkwardly and nervously at them. I was hoping they won't mention the nudes. They were just high school kids. I did not want to look otherwise to them, or give the wrong ideas. However, I was getting a bit irritated. Can we get over and done with this!
"You guys want something else?"
After they glanced at each other; Michelle finally said-"Can you please sign this for us." and out of her back pack; she took out a weekly gossip magazine. On the inside on one of the pages was me and Brian.
"You guys are so, so cute…please an autograph."
I was shocked. When did I have an interview? Why are we featured? The picture they used was even old. What is happening?
I seized the pen and quickly signed on Brian's face. I was not even interested in reading what they wrote about us. Obviously it was nothing positive.
"Thank you so much." Said Michelle.
"Bye girls. And stay in school, okay?" I said walking away. I paid the bill and I was out.
"Thank you Pontso!" shouted Karabo.
I drove to campus for my Tuesday 10.30 am class. I was still mulling over the Pase proposal. How can I possibly turn this down? I decided that I will run by my cousin Tshepiso before deciding on it.
When I was driving; I felt followed. I felt like someone was watching me. But when I eyed at the rear-view mirror; I saw nothing unusual. This is surely all up in my head.
I arrived on campus. As always I got strangers smiling at me because they recognised me. It was a familiar act even after what I assume they saw on social networks, newspapers or blogs. I wasn't the only celebrity on campus; so everyone went along with their business.
I was early for my class. The final year exam dates were confirmed. I was starting in two weeks. I always studied ahead and I was glad regardless of the world somehow crumbling right on my face; my studies were going in the right direction. I was right on schedule with the lectures, and I understood everything presented in class. I'm going to get this degree.
I got the study notes and went straight to my house.
I found my cousin waiting for me; I was expecting her.
"You look so thin Pontso! Have you been eating?" She said it like I was a size of a rake. But of course that is your first comment, not everyone loves to eat Tshepi.
"Hi Tshepi." I voiced. She said- "Well my phone has been quite busy lately and it's a good thing." she followed me to the house
"Oh well." I said unlocking the front door. I threw my hand bag on the couch.
I then set a pair of chairs at the balcony.
"You look so tired Pontso. Bags under your eyes and all. Have you been sleeping; eating?" she was now annoying me. "What is it Tshepi? What's out there?" I ignored her questions. She was my promoter, not my nutritionist.
Tshepi has been a close family member and a friend ever since my teenage years when presenting on Teens Mzansi. She also manages Bontle, – a very well-known model and TV show host. Tshepi literally does all in South Africa and abroad, and promotes a few upcoming and aspiring artists. She's very good at what she does. She knows how to market her clients, knowing what's good and what's bad for them. I was proud to be her family. I was privileged in that regard.
"Talk to me." I said.
She quickly said- "Well, Thee magazine wants an interview, plus a cover. Move magazine has called for comments. You have been nominated for the Mzansi Curious awards…Ehm, you also have an interview on ZFM; – which I totally think you shouldn't do for obvious reasons. Also, you have an interview on the Lifestyle show with Bontle next week Wednesday. And…uhm, what else? Oh yes, – congratulations on those nudes"
"Wow." I said.
"Yep. You are hot property, and that makes me happy."
"I cannot believe all this is happening. It's crazy how this world works."
"You did not know that this would happen after those pictures?"
"No, I really didn't. I'm being attacked since Sunday and am wondering when is this all going to end?! Like it's so frustrating!" I added- "You know, I even feel so unsafe. I feel like someone will just pop out of the blue and do horrible things to me. I am panicking. I feel followed everywhere; as if traumatised." I looked at her- "Tshepi, you have no idea how crazy the things that have been said to me are!"
"I read some online…they obviously don't know you. They are trying to paint a "whore" kind of picture of you. The way those pictures circulated? I was shocked! People were crazed, surprised and adoring you at the same time."
I quickly gulped cold water from a glass and said- "I saw that you were defending me; so thank you."
"Of course i was. You are family, and yes you pay me." We laughed.
She then said-"But those pictures are mouth-watering yoh! I went horny girl!"
"You are so nuts Tshepi.
My legs were now resting on the lounger on the balcony; whilst Tshepi on her laptop. "So Thabz really leaked them?" she asked.
"I'm really not sure." I responded .
"Did you contact him?"
"I haven't."
"Why not?"
"Because I know Brant is not innocent in all this."
"Wow, really?"
"Tshepi. It just doesn't add up. I barely talk to the guy, he has nothing against me, and so do I. He couldn't just leak such pictures…it just doesn't make any sense."
"Some people do it for fun. Hurting people."
"I really doubt Tshepi. Anyway this has worked badly and well for me at the same time. I'm kind of glad. People want me everywhere. I have to admit; somehow I love it. It's like a blessing and a curse."
"You and Brant? You are good?"
"Yah we are. I'm just letting things play out."
"Your love life is not any one's business baby; but what I need to say is you is that you have to prepare for the next coming days. You are going to be more than busy."
I then swiftly said -"That reminds me. You know Francois want me to pose nude for Pase? Can you believe it?"
"Wow! Congratulations girl; Pase? When did he tell you this?" she was so ecstatic like it was her body that was going to be perceived by the entire world.
"He told me earlier this morning. I can't do it. It will only perpetuate the image people already are painting of me. I can't do it Tshepi."
"Are you insane? You are a model for crying out loud. That's what models do."
"Well I'm not going to do it."
"Yes you are Pontso. You should have said yes in a heartbeat. You can't be an African model for ever. You should now represent the whole of Africa." she sounded just like Francois. I just kept quiet and picked up my plate from the floor.
I then asked her-"When is the interview with lifestyle again? Am I doing it?" she was done eating and appeared busy on her PC.
"Oh yes, next week Wednesday." she finally answered me. She added-"I told Bontle to be gentle with you. You know she can be such a bitch."
"I will surely handle it. And Thee magazine?"
I felt an impulsive panic. "Really? What do they need?"
"They will call you, they have your number. They called you earlier today and you did not pick up."
She turned to face me,-"Don't be nervous. They just want a cover and an interview, and obviously they will ask you about the nudes. But I have such a great feeling about it."
"I trust you." I said, and she was back on her PC.


text:
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