Kwabena B Tandoh, Deputy Director General, Ghana Education Service for quality and access

The Deputy Director General, Ghana Education Service (GES) responsible for quality and access, Dr. Kwabena B Tandoh, says government has not scrapped the teacher motivation policy.

In 2015, the erstwhile National Democratic Congress (NDC) government said it had scrapped the teacher motivation allowance paid to members of the profession every term.

The allowance was levied on students at the senior high school level, but that will no longer be charged.

The then Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Education, Francis Gbadago, said the motivation allowance had outlived its usefulness, adding that other public sector workers such as doctors and nurses are not paid such allowances to be motivated to work harder.

The purpose for which this teacher motivation fee was introduced has lost its value at the moment. Now we have teachers being paid a considerable amount of money as salary. We think that at this particular point in time, there is no need for teachers to paid teacher motivation anymore, Francis Gbadago told press men.

Reacting to issues concerning teacher motivation at the Senior High School level, Dr. Kwabena B Tandoh, said monies are disbursed every year for the purposes of motivating teachers at the secondary level.

He revealed that in 2018 and 2019 government, disbursed GHS55m each year, to schools to support academic intervention to motivate teachers and assist the students.

"Government has not scrapped teacher motivation. In 2018 and 2019, government disbursed GHS55m both years to support academic intervention in schools. In 2020, schools were closed and so monies were not disbursed. This years fund is in our budget and it will disbursed for its purpose. GES is passionate about the motivation of teachers, he added.

Continued here:
Govt hasn't scrapped teacher motivation allowance GES Dep. Director General - GhanaWeb

Of late, Kajal Aggarwal has been sending a lot of positive vibes throgh social media. She recently took up knitting as an activity to deal with the grim situation.

We all are coping with something or other in our life during the pandemic, but we are equally fighting it bravely each day. Well, Wednesday is here, which means we are also halfway into the week. For some mid-week motivation, the gorgeous Kajal Aggarwal shared a no-makeup photo on Twitter and wrote, "Sometimes all you need to do is breathe." The actress has treated her fans with beautiful photos of herself and we can't get our eyes off her.

Of late, Kajal Aggarwal has been sending a lot of positive vibes throgh social media. She recently took up knitting as an activity to deal with the grim situation. She wrote, "KNIT. PRAY. LOVE. While the situation is very grim, there is a general feeling of helplessness and anxiety around us. It is very important to focus and apply our minds to something, it can be anything- The idea is to feel purposeful/ creative and establish a sense of usefulness, productivity and achievement. I have taken up knitting very recently and it helps me relax, it helps with mental well-being! I believe the act of creating something for others is truly therapeutic! What are you doing to stay occupied at home in your free time?."

Also Read: PHOTOS: Kajal Aggarwal's husband Gautam Kitchlu kisses & pampers his ladylove and it is all things cute

On the work front, Kajal Aggarwal will be seen sharing the screen space with megastar Chiranjeevi in Siva Koratala's Acharya. The film has Pooja Hegde in a cameo role while Ram Charan plays an important role in the film.

Acharya is produced by both Matinee Entertainment and Konidela Production Company. The film was expected to hit screens on 13 May but the makers decided to postpone it due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

x Your comment has been submitted to the moderation queue

View original post here:
Mid Week Motivation: Kajal Aggarwal shares a beautiful no makeup photo; Says 'All you need to do is breathe' - PINKVILLA

When reading last weeks indictment of Tim Mapes, its important to remember that federal prosecutors have been trying to prove that his old boss, former House Speaker Michael Madigan, was directing the effort to allegedly bribe him with favors.

Madigans longtime chief of staff was indicted May 26 for allegedly lying to a federal grand jury and attempting to obstruct the grand jurys corruption investigation.

It says right there in the indictment that the grand jury is investigating efforts by [Madigan], and efforts of [Madigans former consigliere Mike McClain] on [Madigans] behalf, to obtain for others private jobs, contracts, and monetary payments, in order to influence and reward [Madigan] in connection with [Madigans] role as Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives.

So, they asked Mapes questions about whether Madigan had directed Mike McClain to perform sensitive tasks, or whether Madigan had directed McClain to exercise Madigans power and authority, or whether Madigan or his staff had sought McClains advice, or whether McClain had performed work for Madigan or received assignments from him or served as his communications conduit, or whether McClain assisted Madigan with matters concerning the Illinois House of Representatives, its members, its lobbyists, or with the entities or individuals having pending matters before the Illinois House of Representatives.

While these are all central questions to the feds probe of Madigan, they are not necessarily questions that would criminally implicate Mapes. The government obtained an order from Judge Rebecca Pallmeyer in March to give Mapes immunity for his grand jury testimony. He could respond without incriminating himself.

Anyone with even basic knowledge of the case against Mike McClain would know that the feds had tapped and then seized his phone and his computer. Its no surprise, therefore, that the FBI possessed numerous conversations between McClain and Mapes, and prosecutors asked Mapes about those convos during the grand jury proceeding.

Did McClain tell Mapes anything hed discussed with Madigan or what he was doing on behalf of Madigan during 2017-2019? No, Mapes said, according to the indictment. Did Mapes know about any tasks or assignments for McClain from Madigan in 2017 and 2018 or any time after McClain officially retired from lobbying in 2016? No. Etc.

Please log in to keep reading.

Your membership makes our reporting possible.

Mapes attorneys claim the questions were vague and imprecise and were about events that took place many years ago.

Maybe some of the questions couldve been vague, but Tim Mapes was infamous for making it his business to know everything and never seemed to forget anything. He was a detail guy and had a voracious appetite for news and gossip. And the record shows that McClain never made it a secret to almost anyone that he was doing things for Madigan after he supposedly retired from lobbying at the end of 2016.

The feds tapes and emails of McClains conversations with Mapes himself may have proved just that. As an example, McClain described to Mapes work and assignments from [Madigan] between 2017 and 2019, the indictment claimed. Mapes also allegedly provided McClain messages communicated to Mapes from Madigan about tasks McClain was performing on behalf of McClain.

That Mapes would allegedly lie to a grand jury when he most certainly knew what the government had on him is either profoundly stupid and careless or some real-life Hollywood stuff.

Five Kroger customers will win $1 million each for being vaccinated against COVID-19.

Its natural to be paranoid about the timing of this indictment, coming just five days before the spring sessions adjournment and during a very difficult negotiation over ComEd parent company Exelons demand for yet another giant ratepayer subsidy for three more nuclear power plants. The feds have had a habit for a couple of years of announcing indictments at crucial points during Illinois legislative sessions, and this may have been no different. Part of the Madigan probe centers around the 2016 Exelon nuclear bailout, after all.

The indictment contains a single mention of ComEds current CEO, although it doesnt even hint at even a tiny bit of scandal. Mapes was simply asked whether he had any knowledge of Madigans impressions of the guy. But the feds did throw in that name check, which could make people wonder what the heck is going on because the federales dont generally toss around names without some sort of purpose even if that purpose may be chaos.

1965:As a first-year Loyola-Chicago law student, Chicago Mayor Richard J. Daley appoints Madigan to a job in the city's law department.

1969:At 27 years old, Madigan is elected as 13th Ward committeeman in Chicago.

1970:Madigan is elected to a state office for the first time as a delegate to the state's constructional convention.

1971:Madigan becomes the state representative for the 22nd Illinois House District on Chicago's South Side near Midway Airport.

1972:His friend Vincent Getzendanner joins Madigan to found a law firm, Madigan and Getzendanner, which is known for handling property law.

1976:Madigan marriesShirley Murray, who has a daughter named Lisa. Lisa was elected Illinois attorney general in 2003.

1998:Madigan is elected chairman of the Democratic Party of Illinois.

2003:Rod Blagojevich, a Democrat, is sworn in as governor. Blagojevich and Madigan fought bitterly over budgets and rarely got along.

2011:Madigan leads a historic effort to raise Illinois' income tax rate from 3.25% to 5%, the largest increase in state history. Democrats and Gov. Pat Quinn hoped it would alleviate pressure on the budget.

2013:The Chicago Tribune reports Madigan used his influence to secure patronage hiring at the Chicago area's commuter train agency, Metra.

2015:Fierce fights with Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner resulted in Illinois failing to pass a budget by the beginning of the new fiscal year on July 1. Illinois would go over two years without a budget.

2016:Madigan's personal lawyer, Michael Kasper, successfully sues to block an amendment to the state constitution allowing legislative maps to be created by an independent commission, which would have taken power away from Madigan.

2016:Madigan leads a legislative effort to help Exelon, the parent company of Commonwealth Edison, secure funds for two nuclear power plants. The legislation leads to a $2.3 billion rate hike on ComEd customers.

2017:Despite a vetofrom Rauner, the General Assembly passes a budget, ending over two years of negotiations. It includes an income tax increase to 4.95%.

2018:The #MeToo movement enters the state Capitol and Madigan's inner circle. Former state Rep. Lou Lang was accused of inappropriate conduct but later cleared.

February 2018:Madigan fires aide Kevin Quinn after stafferAlaina Hamptonshared messages with the Chicago Tribune describing sexual harassment from Quinn and Madigan's refusal to address the issue. Madigan settled with Hampton for $275,000.

June 2018:Madigan's chief of staff Tim Mapes resigns after allegations of inappropriate conduct toward a co-worker at the state Capitol. Employees of the Capitol, including lawmakers became required to take sexual harassment training at Madigan's direction.

2019:Springfield Bishop Thomas Paprocki bars Madigan, a Catholic, from receiving Holy Communion in the Diocese of Springfield after he supported a bill expanding access to abortion.

2019:FBI agents raid the homes of Madigan's closest political associates, including Mike McClain of Quincy, a former state representative and ComEd lobbyist. His phone was also tapped by the FBI. The FBI's work would eventually result in charges against McClain and others close to Madigan.

Jan. 9, 2020:Madigan declines to open an investigation by the state legislature into an email written in 2012 by McClain that refers to a "rape in Champaign."

July 17, 2020:Energy provider ComEd is hit with bribery charges. Madigan is implicated in the charges as Public Official A, the elected official the company sought to influence in exchange for his support on legislation between 2011 and 2019. Madigan said he was unaware of any attempts to influence him and did not take part in any unethical behavior. The FBI also delivered a grand jury subpoena to Madigan's state capitol office. That day, multiple lawmakers began dropping their support for Madigan's leadership.

Oct. 1, 2020:State Rep. Stephanie Kifowit announces she will run against Madigan for speaker. It's believed to be the first time Madigan faced a serious challenge for the job from a member of his own party.

Nov. 18, 2020:Four of Madigan's close associates Anne Pramaggiore, John Hooker, Michael McClain and Jay Doherty are charged in the ComEd probe.

Rich Miller publishes Capitol Fax, a daily political newsletter, and CapitolFax.com.

Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to your inbox weekly!

See the original post:
Rich Miller: What is feds' motivation in naming names? - Herald & Review

Tennis French Open Roland Garros, Paris, France May 30, 2021 Austrias Dominic Thiem walks off the court after losing his first round match against Spains Pablo Andujar REUTERS/Christian Hartmann

Two-time finalist Dominic Thiem faced a shocking loss against Spanish World No.68 Pablo Andujar at the French Open 2021 first-round. Ordinarily, the Austrian ace would fight back to the top after being two sets down in a match. But this time, he squandered a two-set lead to exit Roland-Garros on the first day itself, losing 4-6, 5-7, 6-3, 6-4, 6-4.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Before coming to Paris, the 27-year-old had raised some serious questions regarding his motivation on the ATP Tour. After doing considerably well in Madrid and Rome, Thiem again had shocked the tennis community, losing in Lyon in the opening round right before Roland-Garros.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Read More: Dominic Thiem Squanders Two Sets Lead, Loses in 1st Round Shocker Against Pablo Andujar at French Open 2021

Neither the 2020 US Open champion nor the tennis world anticipated this shocker. The Austrian tried to answer the question of motivation in his post-match press conference.

Thiem said,Not at all. I was not struggling at all with my motivation, but the game was just not there today. Like all the shots are missing power, they are not accurate enough, moving not well enough. So like everything in my game, theres some percents missing.

Furthermore, Thiem explained he does not know the reason behind his drop in performance level. Also, he added that he had been doing super intense training for the match. The Austrian concluded,I mean, the shots and how I moved and everything was just not the real me, I would say, or my version, who is able to play for big titles. Its just not good enough at the moment, and yeah, its a very tough situation.

Watch this story: Serena Williams, Ashleigh Barty, Iga Swiatek, And Other Surprising Womens Singles Champion at French Open

Naturally, the opening round defeat on his beloved Parisian clay will be heavy on Thiem. However, he now has enough time to analyze and regroup himself before the grass season.

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Without a doubt, fans are waiting to see him flourish on the tennis courts again. Hopefully, the awarded time due to his early exit will prove advantageous for him for the rest of the season.

Thiem has a lot of work to do, whereas fans have the entirety of Roland-Garros 2021 left for them. Who do you think can challenge Rafael Nadal now that Thiem is out of contention?

ADVERTISEMENT

Article continues below this ad

Also Read: Would Be a Challenge: Bjorn Borg Desires to Play Against Rafael Nadal at French Open

More:
Was Just Not the Real Me: Dominic Thiem Disregards Motivation Doubts Over Shocking 1R Loss at French Open 2021 - EssentiallySports

Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith was pressed into starting duty as a rookie in 2020 when Bud Dupree tore his ACL. His performance was strong enough to give Pittsburgh Steelers coaches confidence in him to be the opening-day starter opposite T.J. Watt.

But many NFL draft pundits werent so convinced and many had edge rusher among the teams top draft needs this year, even going so far as to mock an edge to the Steelers in the first round. Highsmith said this motivated him to work even harder in the offseason.

My thoughts? Whatever it takes. Highsmith has some big shoes to fill so anything he can pull from to help get him there is fine by me. Highsmith only had one sack in his five starts, but the Steelers did very little to address the position in the offseason aside from sixth-round pick Quincy Roche.

Go here to see the original:
Steelers OLB Alex Highsmith used NFL draft experts as motivation - Steelers Wire

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 16: Zayne Anderson #23 of the BYU Cougars breaks up a pass intended for Marquez Stevenson #5 of the Houston Cougars in the second half at TDECU Stadium on October 16, 2020 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images)

Tyreek Hill is in historic company with Pro Bowl success by Matt Conner

KC Chiefs: Patrick Mahomes has his sights set on 20-0 record by Matt Conner

Preston Hadley seemed like the perfect person to ask.

This spring, Kansas City Chiefs general manager Brett Veach signed only a handful of rookie free agents. For a loaded roster, its tough to find room, and theres no use bringing in a typical haul of a dozen or more players if theres no real chance to earn a roster spot. However, one player who did earn a closer look is Brigham Young safety Zayne Anderson.

Back to Coach Hadley for a second. Not only has Hadley served as Andersons coach in the secondary since 2018 for the Cougars, but Hadley was also college teammatesagain at BYUwith the player to whom Anderson is compared most: Chiefs safety Daniel Sorensen. Both players were BYU products. Both entered the NFL as undrafted players. Both profile similarly as exceptionally hard-hitting safeties known for their intelligence and toughness. Then again, Hadley is quick to differentiate the players despite the similarities.

I know a lot of BYU fans like to draw comparisons between Danny and Zayne, but dont draw comparisons to Dirty Dan, man, said Preston in a recent interview with Arrowhead Addict. Hes in a league of his own.I cant speak of what Danny has done in the NFL, but as far as being his teammate, theyre two different personalities for sure, but I think they have a similar skill set, similar measurables. I think their intangibles are different, but it will be fun.

Hadley laughs when asked about the potential of both BYU alumni fighting for the same potential job. Given that both players are known for being so competitive and tenacious, its going to be an intriguing preseason for all players involved.

Its a mans game, said Hadley. Knowing Danny, I know hes not going to let that happen. Im hoping they can end up being teammates, yknow? But also knowing Zayne, those are two competitive guys. Im hoping Zayne can link up with Danny during his time there, because Dannys been really good about coming back to BYU and having relationships with our current players. I know Zaynes already looked up to him quite a bit, especially with everyone telling him how comparable they are skill set-wise. But Dannys a killer, man. I think Zayne can get there but Danny has 8 or 9 years experience.

While its tough for any pro prospect to make the leap from the college ranks, Hadley says Anderson has a couple key assets working in hi favor. Beyond the clear physical gifts he possesses and a great frame at 62, 210 lbs., Anderson also comes with a maturity and work ethic rarely seen even in players ready to make the jump to the NFL.

For the latter, Anderson is the very rare prospect who has had three senior seasonsyes, three. Due to a shoulder injury that prematurely ended his 2018 and 2019 season, Anderson kept returning again and again in order to finish well. That injury history will be a concern for teams and likely downgraded him on some draft boards, but Hadley said it also shaped Anderson to be the man that he is today.

Your mindset going into your senior yearmaintaining that is a different thing. He had to do that three times, said Hadley. I think that takes a certain level of discipline to come back and play at a high level after the injuries. Every player has adversity and his is very unique to have to mentally prepare to be a senior three times.

Hes older, but its not like he didnt play in multiple games in each of those years. So hes actually got a lot of game experience at multiple positions. I think it can help give him an edge over who hes going to be competing against. Hes still gotta go out and play well, but I think it definitely gives him an advantage. We have a saying, Adversity prepares you for greatness. Hes definitely faced that, had some letdowns of things outside his control, but I think it will pay dividends during his pursuit of a career in the NFL.

When it comes to the injury concerns, Hadley stated that this last season proved he was healthy and ready to play again, as Anderson played in 11 games for the Cougars and racked up 41 tackles. He also returned to safety after a couple years as a hybrid player at linebacker, giving him some real versatility for the Chiefs going forward.

I think he proved this year he can be durable. Hes a versatile player. After his sophomore year, he actually started at a hybrid linebacker/safety position. In our language, we call it a linebacker, but in general its somewhere in between. He played that position for us and thats where Fred Warner played. Its a bit more physical position than what hed been playing at free safety.

When he was right, he played at a high level and was a great tackler. But he had a shoulder injury and then came back the next year as a linebacker again, and I dont know all the details, but he re-injured it. When he moved back to safety, our athletic trainers put him on a slow track in recovery and rehab. Then this year, he held up. He didnt cringe. He wasnt shy on contact or anything. You wouldnt have known. I might sound biased as his coach, but he maintained his physical level of play. Hes so physical, which is why he had so much wear-and-tear on his shoulder. I think hell hold up.

As for the work ethic, Hadley describes Anderson with a keen ability to lock in. His determination will take an area of weakness and hone that skill until its no longer a concern for him on the field.

When you identify an area he needs to improve on, he can go all in and get tunnel vision about that skill, said Hadley. For example, I gave him some feedback at the end of spring last year that his ball skills werent where they needed to be. I wasnt out there with him during the offseason but he came into fall camp and it was noticeable that it was an area of focus hed been working on.

He has a great combination of focus and energy that he can use to lock in on a specific skill. From my experience, theres been multiple times where you give him feedback saying, This aint right and he comes right back and its noticeably better. I think that takes a high level of intrinsic motivation and says a lot about him as a player.

While all these intangibles are great, they mean nothing if Anderson cant keep up with the elite athletes hell be competing with in offseason training activities and the NFL preseason. Fortunately he showed up strong at his pro day, where he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.46 seconds. He also had an impressive 4.22 time in the short shuttle.

Its still going to be an uphill battle for Anderson as an undrafted rookie trying to turn the heads of a coaching staff of a Super Bowl contender. The Chiefs have gone to the biggest game in the sport in each of the last two seasons with their eyes very much on a third consecutive trip. The safety position already has Tyrann Mathieu, Juan Thornhill and Sorensen as their big three along with Armani Watts, new free agent signing Will Parks, Chris Lammons and fellow rookie free agent Devon Key. Hadley has been honest with Anderson about the realities of the fight ahead and he didnt mince words.

I said, This is a business, man. Everyone there is a pro. We talked about the mindset he needed to have going in, because hes going to steal someones job. There are only so many spots, which means potentially taking food off of someones dinner table. So he has to have a different type of focus than hes ever had. I think hes good for it.

Go here to see the original:
Zayne Anderson is a highly motivated talent in KC Chiefs secondary - Arrowhead Addict

If this is the start of the final lap for James Anderson and Stuart Broad then both stand on the start line this week determined to leave younger bowlers trailing in their wake.

The Lords LV=Insurance Test against the worlds no 1 side New Zealand on Wednesday will be a special moment with the return of fans starved of England cricket 12 months, the opening to supporters of the rebuilt Compton-Edrich stands and the record-equalling feat of Anderson playing his 161st Test at the ground where it all started in 2003.

Anderson will pull level with Sir Alastair Cook as Englands most capped player and, if he has his way with the selectors, go past his old captain at Edgbaston next week. It does make me feel proud. I never imagined in a million years Id get to this point, he said. For a bowler to play this amount of games is a bit mind-blowing. There is also the small matter of needing eight wickets for his 1000th in first-class cricket. There would be no better occasion than a Lords Test to become almost certainly the last pace bowler to reach four figures.

Broad for his part is determined this will be the first of seven Tests this summer, and both want to share the new ball again, holding off younger alternatives. It is a long way from 12 months ago when Broad was not considered a first choice pick anymore and left out of the first Test of the summer.

Broad turns 34 and Anderson 39 soon and its inevitable, no matter how much it annoys Anderson, that thoughts move to the future and life without them. England are now in serious danger of losing both legendary bowlers at the same time, a fate they wanted to avoid. It took Australian cricket years to fill the vacuum left by Warne, McGrath and Gilchrist retiring together and West Indies cricket has never replaced Ambrose and Walsh, who departed at the Oval in 2000.

It could end suddenly for Anderson. He knows that. But he looks fitter than ever, and the motivation to keep running in remains undimmed.

There have been ups and downs for both recently. Anderson was a little flattered by his numbers last summer, and bowled only four overs in the 2019 Ashes. Broad had a wonderful time against Pakistan and West Indies last year but was ineffective in India, while Anderson produced one of his great overs in the fine win in Chennai.

The Duke ball will feel like a comfort blanket for Broad after the winter and while the James Anderson End is at Emirates Old Trafford, it should really be at Lords where he has a superior record and 103 wickets. He has not played at Lords since 2018 but no bowler knows how to calibrate his angles of attack for the slope better than Anderson.

Chris Silverwood and Joe Root have committed to picking a genuine pace bowler when one is available and even without Jofra Archer they have Mark Wood and Olly Stone in the squad. One should play each of the Tests against New Zealand but the absence of Ben Stokes makes balancing the side that bit harder. Ollie Robinson and Craig Overton also need experience before Australia this winter. In Robinsons case to judge whether he is good enough, and for Overton to prove his extra pace at county level can be effective higher up against a strong New Zealand batting side.

Jack Leach could be squeezed out for an all seam attack, plus Joe Root, but that would be deflating for him and send a poor message after a winter in which he has become Englands no 1 spinner.

Anderson will point to other sporting stars defying time; Phil Mickelson winning last weeks PGA at 50, Tom Brady the Superbowl aged 43 and Roger Federer playing the French Open after overcoming two knee operations at 39. Unlike Cook, who was worn down by Test cricket at the end, Andersons still has the vibrancy of a younger man.

My body doesnt feel old or tired, its just incredible. I absolutely love Test cricket, Ive got a huge passion for it. Growing up, thats all I wanted to do is play Test cricket for England and Im honoured Ive been able to do it for this long, he said. The butterflies are still there. Theres something incredibly special about turning up for the first Test of the summer at Lords. The atmosphere around that ground is something you dont experience anywhere else in the world.

Central contracts and enforced retirement from one-day cricket after the 2015 have made such longevity possible. Since they were left out of the one-day side after the 2015 World Cup (Broad played two ODIs a year later in South Africa but thats it) only spinners Nathan Lyon and Ravi Ashwin have taken more Test wickets than Anderson and Broad. Both have better averages and economy rates than their overall career records too since playing just Test cricket. No wonder Anderson calls it an absolute god-send.

It has extended his career into a 19th Test summer and he has been around so long he played with the last two pace bowlers to take 1,000 wickets - Martin Bicknell and Andy Caddick.

I'm feeling fresh. And if we do pick our strongest team we'd (Broad) like to think that we're both in that. And we'd love to share the new ball together, yes.

Dont bet against Anderson saying exactly the same thing in 12 months time. This last lap may be one of the longest yet.

See more here:
James Anderson begins long final lap fitter than ever with motivation undimmed - Telegraph.co.uk

Adrian Grenier has no regrets about leaving Hollywood behind for a quieter life in Texas.

The 44-year-old Entourage actor opened up in a new interview with Austin Life magazine about moving to the gigantic state, and revealed his hopes about opening a wildlife sanctuary one day.

Click inside to read more

Theres lots of shiny memories that I crave, but Ive done too much work not to recognize that Im here for something bigger than going to nightclubs, Adrian told the magazine about his lifestyle switch.

On why he chose Austin: I bought a place in Austin five years ago and a year ago I decided to move here permanently. I had friends here, I ran a business here, and liked the pace. Austin is cosmopolitan without being snooty; its earthy. People are smart and successful but they dont flaunt it. There is nothing to prove, people accept you and it felt good right away.

On his connection with nature inspiring his decision: I have been doing environmental work for the last 20 years, Ive started organizations and run non-profits, all designed to tell people to live more in line with nature and yet, I wasnt living that way. In many ways, I reached the apex of that promise if you work hard, you become famous, then you make a lot of money but it was lackluster at the top.

On leaving his Hollywood lifestyle behind: It was a f*** load of fun, and amazing while it lasted. Im not disparaging that stage of my development when I could go deep into my total abject debauchery, but look at nature! Nature will tell you things eventually have to come down to earth, and I found myself in a stage of my life where I had to change.

On wanting to open a wildlife sanctuary: He says he wants to have llamas or alpacas, maybe some goats not for a livestock operation but to keep the grass down.

Read more from the article, written by Sarah Ivens, at CityLifestyle.com/Austin-TX. The cover story was photographed by Laura Morsman Photograpohy and styled by Stephanie Coultress ONeil/EstiloMen.

Earlier this year, Adrian left little to the imagination as he dove into a freezing pool. Watch here!

Read the original post:
Adrian Grenier Reveals The Motivation Behind His Permanent Move to Texas - Just Jared

Soeng Chatvichea is someone who has been consistently engaged in helping, motivating, and inspiring people towards their best. His remarkable contribution and journey of earnest efforts and dedication is nothing less than legendary.

Also Read | Roger Federer vs Denis Istomin, French Open 2021 Live Streaming Online: How to Watch Free Live Telecast of Men's Singles Tennis Match in India?

Mission Business, DrExpress logistic Co.,LTD, and SCV Finance Pawn Shop, Master Life Business Club and Real Estate, are the four widely recognized startups initiated by Soeng Chatvichea apart from being an award-winning marketing influencer, author of a best entrepreneur and Motivational Speaker ranked number one in Cambodia. In spite of all the hardships and challenges he faced as a child, Soeng Chatvichea outstandingly overcame it all and made his name a shining success.

Learning from his experiences and mistakes, he aspires to do the same for others as well. From a life full of negativity and failure, he aims to help people witness the very magic of positivity and encouragement.

Also Read | Jo-Wilfried Tsonga vs Yoshihito Nishioka, French Open 2021 Live Streaming Online: How to Watch Free Live Telecast of Men's Singles Tennis Match in India?

MasterLife Club - MLC is an established by Soeng Chatvichea, which provides people with a personal life, knowledgeable, motivation and about business who assists them in finding a way out. It prioritizes the mental well-being of an individual and helps them fight back against anything that brings them down. Through his innumerable motivational programs, videos, and workshops, he has inspired over 2 million individuals.

In present times, Soeng Chatvichea is not just a motivational speaker but the very face of public trust and confidence.Owing to his knowledge and experience, he has made a significant difference in the life of many. His contribution is not just limited to the website, as he is also associated with many notable personalities from the entertainment industry.

On an endless journey of hustle and exploration, Soeng Chatvichea continues widening his horizons and working earnestly with all his dedication and will. His love and passion for his profession are what drive him through the most challenging days, with the main aim of reaching out to more and more people and helping them rebuild their lives for the better.

Read more here:
Soeng Chatvichea: Best Motivational Speaker Helping and Rebuilding Lives - Yahoo India News

Jaylen Johnson wasnt happy with how he finished his high school football career.

After his senior season at Cincinnatis La Salle High School, Johnson was named as the Greater Catholic Leagues co-defensive back of the year while earning first-team all-Ohio honors from MaxPreps. He helped lead the Lancers to the state semifinals, where they lost to Massillon Washington and his soon-to-be Ohio State teammate Jayden Ballard.

Johnson, however, doesnt believe he deserved any accolades for how he played in 2020.

My senior year, people say I played good, but in my opinion, I feel like I played horrible, Johnson told Eleven Warriors last week. My conditioning wasnt all the way right. My strength wasnt there; I was normally getting blocked when I rarely can get blocked. My breaks, my cuts, everything just was all very bad in my opinion. Honestly, I dont see how I won defensive back of the year in my conference.

Because there was uncertainty about whether the state of Ohio would even have a high school football season last fall due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Johnson admits he didnt prepare for the season the way he normally would have. Without knowing whether hed actually get to play a senior season, Johnson didnt have the motivation to give his all during his offseason training.

That taught Johnson a valuable lesson, though, as he prepares to start his Ohio State career this summer.

It taught me to always be ready so I dont have to get ready, Johnson said. And since Ive been training since December, my numbers are out the roof right now. A normal senior that plays my position would never be able to do the things that Im doing as of right now.

Johnson, who is set to arrive at Ohio State on Tuesday to enroll in classes and officially join the Buckeyes, has been working on getting stronger and improving his stamina in training for his freshman year. Through his offseason work in the weight room, which he says has been a big point of emphasis as hes prepared to head to Columbus, Johnson says he can now bench press 330 pounds, power clean 245 pounds, deadlift 515 pounds and squat 410 pounds.

This is not high school ball. Im playing with kids that are my age and older than me at the same time, so I know I have to be physically and mentally prepared, Johnson said.

The 6-foot-2 defensive back hasbulked up to 225 pounds as he prepares to play bullet, Ohio States hybrid safety/linebacker position, which he believes will be a perfect fit for his game.

Thats honestly what I wanted to play, bullet, because I can play in the secondary and I also can play in the box, Johnson said. When I think of that position, the first person that comes to my mind is Jamal Adams, whos one of my favorite safeties in the NFL right now.

Ranked as the No. 411 overall prospect and No. 29 safety in the recruiting class of 2021, Johnson is the lowest-rated position player in Ohio States new crop of freshmen. He says that doesnt bother him, though, because he knows his own ability.

Stars are for people who go to camps and how many offers you have. It doesnt define the person you are, the athlete you are, Johnson said. Aaron Donald was a three-star and hes been a defensive MVP almost every year. Russell Wilson was a three-star; one of the best quarterbacks ever.

I know what Im capable of doing. And I know that I can go beyond or be better than what Im doing now if I continue to work.

His three-star rating also didnt bother Ohio States coaches, who viewed him as a leader in the recruiting class.

Hes got a great way of connecting with the other recruits, Ryan Day said after the Buckeyes signed Johnson in December. Hes been a glue, to be honest with you, during this whole process, keeping guys together.

Johnson also knows that all of the freshmen, no matter how highly touted they were as recruits, have to prove themselves all over again now that theyre college players.

We gotta just come in ready to work, Johnson said. We all know that were nobodies now. Whatever our high school accolades and accomplishments are dont mean anything. Its time to start a new chapter. So thats how I look at it. I dont know about their perspective, but thats how I look at it.

I know what Im capable of doing. And I know that I can go beyond or be better than what Im doing now if I continue to work. Jaylen Johnson on being his own toughest critic

Even though Johnson arrives at Ohio State less heralded than most of the other new freshmen, he could have the opportunity to compete for early playing time. Ronnie Hickman and Craig Young are the frontrunners to play most of the snaps at bullet, while Kourt Williams is also a strong candidate for playing time if he is fully healthy for the fall, but none of them are proven commodities yet.

After watching Ohio States pass defense struggle last season, Johnson knows Kerry Coombs and Matt Barnes are looking for new players to step up on the back end of the defense, and hes motivated to do whatever he can to help the Buckeyes defense get back on track.

Ive been real focused lately because I know our defensive backfield wasnt the best that it could be, and I know they still need help and we need help, Johnson said. So my vision on my college career is to come in and be the best athlete I can be, and just give the coaches 25/8 every day.

Johnson, whos his own toughest critic, knows he still needs to improve to be a successful player for the Buckeyes. Specifically, Johnson knows he needs to work on improving his ball skills and off-man coverage.

If he can get better in those areas, though, he believes hell be able to do anything Ohio State asks him to do.

Those are two things that I have trouble with, Johnson said. I can run with anyone. If I can get my hands under you, I can play outside, I can play the slot, I can play linebacker, bullet. (Cover) tight ends, running backs. I just have to practice my off-man and my ball skills, thats it.

I can come up, make plays. I can play every coverage. I can read offenses. People tell me, theres not much stuff that I cant do.

RELATED Jaylen Johnson Brings Respect, Discipline, Physical Versatility and Another Example of Ohio State's Inside-Out Recruiting Approach

Playing for Ohio State has long been a dream for Johnson, and now, hes motivated to make an impact for the Buckeyes as soon as possible. Most of all, though, Johnson says he wants to follow the example set for him by his father, Jarvis, who also played Division I college football at Northern Illinois.

What motivates me the most is my father waking up every morning, 6 in the morning, going to work, working his behind off just to provide for me, Johnson said. So he really sparks the fire and my fuel to make me the best I can be every day.

Continue reading here:
Jaylen Johnson Ready to Work, Motivated to Make Impact for Buckeyes Defense As He Begins Ohio State Career - Eleven Warriors