- published: 07 Jan 2009
- views: 37167
- author: londonbusinessforum
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Absolute Radio
Coordinates: 51°30′44″N 0°08′13″W / 51.512248°N 0.136937°W / 51.512248; -0.136937
Absolute Radio is one of the UK's three Independent National Radio stations. The station rebranded to its current name at 7:45 am on 29 September 2008.
The station is based in London and plays popular rock music. It currently broadcasts on mediumwave and DAB across the UK, on 105.8 FM in London, Sky (channel 0107), Virgin Media (channel 915), Freeview (channel 727), Freesat (channel 724) and TalkTalk TV (channel 620). It is also available in other parts of the world via satellite, cable, and on the Internet. Absolute Radio is a patron of The Radio Academy.
The 1990 Broadcasting Act allowed for the launch of independent national radio (INR) stations in the United Kingdom. The Radio Authority was mandated to award three INR licences, one of which (INR1) had to be for a 'non-pop' station (which was awarded to Classic FM), and one of which had to be for a predominantly speech-based service (this would be advertised later as INR3 and would be awarded to Talk Radio). The remaining licence was to be open to 'all-comers'. The licences were to be awarded to the highest cash bidder, providing that the applicant met criteria set down in the Broadcasting Act.
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Antigua and Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda (
i/ænˈtiːɡə ænd bɑrˈbjuːdə/; Spanish for "ancient" and "bearded") is a twin-island nation lying between the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. It consists of two major inhabited islands, Antigua and Barbuda, and a number of smaller islands (including Great Bird, Green, Guinea, Long, Maiden and York Islands and further south, the island of Redonda). The permanent population number approximately 81,800 (at the 2011 Census) and the capital and largest port and city is St. John's, on Antigua.
Separated by a few nautical miles, Antigua and Barbuda are in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, roughly at 17 degrees north of the Equator. The country is nicknamed "Land of 365 Beaches" due to the many beaches surrounding the islands. Its governance, language, and culture have all been strongly influenced by the British Empire, of which the country was formerly a part.
Antigua was first settled by Archaic Age hunter-gatherer Amerindians, erroneously referred to as Siboney or Ciboney.Carbon-dating has established that the earliest settlements started around 3100 BC. They were succeeded by the Ceramic Age pre-Columbian Arawak-speaking Saladoid people who migrated from the lower Orinoco River.
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Bishopsgate School
Coordinates: 51°26′24″N 0°34′52″W / 51.440°N 0.581°W / 51.440; -0.581
Bishopsgate School is a non denominational co-educational independent school aged 3 to 13, in Englefield Green, Surrey.
The school is set in 20 acres (81,000 m2) of land adjacent to Windsor Great Park. It is classed as an IAPS Preparatory School.
The school stands on the site of Scaitcliffe, a former preparatory boys school. Bishopsgate School was formed by the merging of Scaitcliffe and Virginia Water preparatory school in 1996. There are 335 pupils with 12 weekly boarders.
The age range is 2 years old to 13 years old. The headmaster is Andrew Cowell.
The school's gross income for the fiscal year ending August 2006 was £2.7 million., of which 1.58 million was spent on the 47 teachers and 16 other staff.
As one of the oldest independent schools in England, the royal family has visited several times. The Duke of York opened the Jubilee Building (years 3 to 8) in 2003, and the Windsor Building(pre-prep) in 2006.
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Brawn GP
Brawn GP Formula One Team, the trading name of Brawn GP Limited, was a Formula One motor racing team and constructor, created by a management buyout of Honda Racing F1 Team. It only competed in the 2009 Formula One World Championship, with drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello. The team clinched that year's constructors' championship, and Button took the drivers' title. For 2010, the team again changed identity, becoming Mercedes GP.
On its racing debut, the season-opening 2009 Australian Grand Prix, the team took pole position and 2nd place in qualifying and went on to finish first and second in the race. Button won six of the first seven races of the season and on 18 October at the Brazilian Grand Prix, he secured the 2009 Drivers' Championship and the team won the Constructors' Championship. Barrichello won twice and finished third in the Drivers' Championship. The team won eight of the season's seventeen races, and by winning both titles in its only year of competition became the first to achieve a 100% championship success rate.
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Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official London residence and office of the British monarch. Located in the City of Westminster, the palace is a setting for state occasions and royal hospitality. It has been a focus for the British people at times of national rejoicing and crisis.
Originally known as Buckingham House, the building which forms the core of today's palace was a large townhouse built for the Duke of Buckingham in 1705 on a site which had been in private ownership for at least 150 years. It was subsequently acquired by George III in 1761 as a private residence for Queen Charlotte, and known as "The Queen's House". During the 19th century it was enlarged, principally by architects John Nash and Edward Blore, forming three wings around a central courtyard. Buckingham Palace finally became the official royal palace of the British monarch on the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837. The last major structural additions were made in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including the East front which contains the well-known balcony on which the Royal Family traditionally congregate to greet crowds outside. However, the palace chapel was destroyed by a German bomb in World War II; the Queen's Gallery was built on the site and opened to the public in 1962 to exhibit works of art from the Royal Collection.
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Calais
Calais (/ˈkæleɪ/ CAL-ay, traditionally /ˈkælɨs/; French pronunciation: [ka'lɛ]; Dutch: Kales) is a town and major ferry port in Northern France in the department of Pas-de-Calais, of which it is a sub-prefecture. Although Calais is by far the largest city in Pas-de-Calais, the department's capital is its third-largest city of Arras. The population of the metropolitan area at the 1999 census was 125,584. Calais overlooks the Strait of Dover, the narrowest point in the English Channel, which is only 34 km (21 mi) wide here, and is the closest French town to England. The White Cliffs of Dover can easily be seen on a clear day from Calais. Calais is a major port for ferries between France and England, and since 1994 the Channel Tunnel has linked to nearby Coquelles from Folkestone by rail.
Due to its position, Calais since the Middle Ages has been a major port and a very important centre for transport and trading with England. It was annexed by Edward III of England in 1347 and grew into a thriving centre for wool production and Calais was a territorial possession of England until its capture by France in 1558. The town came to be called the "brightest jewel in the English crown" owing to its great importance as the gateway for the tin, lead, lace and wool trades (or "staples"). In 1805 it was a staging area for Napoleon's troops for several months during his planned invasion of the United Kingdom. The town was virtually razed to the ground during World War II, when in May 1940, it was a strategic bombing target of the invading German forces who took the town during the Siege of Calais. During World War II, the Germans built massive bunkers along the coast in preparation for launching missiles on England.
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Darfur
Darfur (Arabic: دار فور Dār Fūr, English: Realm of the Fur) is a region in western Sudan. An independent sultanate for several hundred years, it was incorporated into Sudan by Anglo-Egyptian forces in 1916. The region is divided into five federal states: Central Darfur, East Darfur, North Darfur, South Darfur and West Darfur. Because of the war in Darfur between Sudanese government forces and the non-Arab indigenous population, the region was in a state of humanitarian emergency between 2003 and 2010.
Darfur covers an area of some 493,180 square kilometers (190,420 sq mi)—approximately the size of Spain. It is largely an arid plateau with the Marrah Mountains (Jebel Marra), a range of volcanic peaks rising up to 3,042 meters (9,980 ft) of topographic prominence, in the center of the region. The region's main towns are Al Fashir, Nyala, and Geneina.
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Dover
Coordinates: 51°07′46″N 1°18′32″E / 51.1295°N 1.3089°E / 51.1295; 1.3089
Dover (
/ˈdoʊvər/; French: Douvres) is a town and major ferry port in the home county of Kent, in South East England. It faces France across the narrowest part of the English Channel, and lies south-east of Canterbury; east of Kent's administrative capital Maidstone; and north-east along the coastline from Dungeness and Hastings. The town is the administrative centre of the Dover District and home of the Dover Calais ferry through the Port of Dover. The surrounding chalk cliffs have become known as the White Cliffs of Dover, and the narrow sea passage nearby – the Strait of Dover. Its strategic position has been evident throughout its history: archaeological finds have revealed that the area has always been a focus for peoples entering and leaving Britain. The name of the town derives from the name of the river that flows through River Dour. The town has been inhabited since the Stone Age according to archeological finds, and Dover is one of only a few places in Britain – London and Cornwall being other examples – to have a corresponding name in the French language, Douvres.
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English Channel
The English Channel (French: la Manche, Breton: Mor Breizh, Cornish: Mor Bretannek), often referred to simply as the Channel, is an arm of the Atlantic Ocean that separates southern England from northern France, and joins the North Sea to the Atlantic. It is about 560 km (350 mi) long and varies in width from 240 km (150 mi) at its widest to 34 km (21 mi) in the Strait of Dover. It is the smallest of the shallow seas around the continental shelf of Europe, covering an area of some 75,000 km2 (29,000 sq mi).
The International Hydrographic Organization defines the limits of the English Channel as follows:
On the West. A line joining Isle Vierge (48°38′23″N 4°34′13″W / 48.63972°N 4.57028°W / 48.63972; -4.57028) to Lands End (50°04′N 5°43′W / 50.067°N 5.717°W / 50.067; -5.717).
On the East. The Southwestern limit of the North Sea.
The IHO defines the southwestern limit of the North Sea as "a line joining the Walde Lighthouse (France, 1°55'E) and Leathercoat Point (England, 51°10'N)". The Walde Lighthouse is 6 km east of Calais (50°59′06″N 1°55′00″E / 50.985°N 1.9166667°E / 50.985; 1.9166667), and Leathercoat Point is at the north end of St Margaret's Bay, Kent (51°10′00″N 1°24′00″E / 51.1666667°N 1.4°E / 51.1666667; 1.4).
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Johannesburg
Johannesburg (/dʒoʊˈhænɪsbɜrɡ/; Afrikaans: [joˈhɑnəsbʏrx]) also known as Jozi, Jo'burg or eGoli, is the largest city in South Africa, by population. Johannesburg is the provincial capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa, having the largest economy of any metropolitan region in Sub-Saharan Africa. The city is one of the 50 largest metropolitan areas in the world, and is also the world's largest city not situated on a river, lake, or coastline. It claims to be the lightning capital of the world, though this title is also claimed by others.
While Johannesburg is not one of South Africa's three capital cities, it is the seat of the Constitutional Court, which has the final word on interpretation of South Africa's new post-Apartheid constitution. The city is the source of a large-scale gold and diamond trade, due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. Johannesburg is served by O.R. Tambo International Airport, the largest and busiest airport in Africa and a gateway for international air travel to and from the rest of Southern Africa. More recently Lanseria International Airport has started international flights, and is situated conveniently on the opposite side of the metropolis.
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Microsoft
Coordinates: 47°38′22.55″N 122°7′42.42″W / 47.6395972°N 122.12845°W / 47.6395972; -122.12845
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ: MSFT) is an American multinational corporation headquartered in Redmond, Washington, United States that develops, manufactures, licenses, and supports a wide range of products and services predominantly related to computing through its various product divisions. Established on April 4, 1975 to develop and sell BASIC interpreters for the Altair 8800, Microsoft rose to dominate the home computer operating system market with MS-DOS in the mid-1980s, followed by the Microsoft Windows line of operating systems. Microsoft is one of the largest software corporations in the world.
Microsoft would also come to dominate the office suite market with Microsoft Office. The company has diversified into the video game industry with the Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles and the consumer electronics and digital services market MSN, the Zune and the Windows Phone OS. The ensuing rise of stock in the company's 1986 initial public offering (IPO) made an estimated three billionaires and 12,000 millionaires from Microsoft employees (Forbes 400 list revealed that in March 2011 both Jon Shipley and Nathan Myhrvold lost their billionaire status). In May 2011, Microsoft Corporation acquired Skype Communications for $8.5 billion.
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Natirar
Natirar is an estate spanning 491 acres (1.99 km2) in Peapack-Gladstone, Far Hills and Bedminster, New Jersey. Its name is a reverse spelling of Raritan. In 2003 it was sold by the estate of His Majesty, Hassan II, late King of Morocco, to Somerset County, New Jersey, and is now administered by the Somerset County Park Commission. Approximately 90 acres (360,000 m2) of the estate have been leased to the Virgin Spa at Natirar, an entity controlled by Sir Richard Branson of the Virgin Group, which plans to develop that portion of the estate (which includes the mansion, stable/carriage barn and most of the other outbuildings) into an exclusive hotel, spa, restaurant complex.
2 Main St, Far Hills, NJ 07931
At the end of a 1.25-mile (2.01 km) driveway within a 491-acre (1.99 km2) estate that occupies portions of three municipalities. (The main buildings and 327 acres (1.32 km2) are in the Borough of Peapack-Gladstone, New Jersey; 124 acres (0.50 km2) are in the Borough of Far Hills; 40 acres (160,000 m2) are in the Bedminster Township, New Jersey) The core buildings are south of Highland Avenue, east of Main Street/Peapack Road, north of the North Branch of the Raritan River and west of Lake Road. The main entrance, once at the Far Hills train station, is now just over the town line, nearly at the spot where Main Street (Peapack Road) crosses the North Branch of the Raritan River and New Jersey Transit's Gladstone Branch.
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New Jersey
New Jersey (i/nuː ˈdʒɜrzi/) is a state in the Northeastern and Middle Atlantic regions of the United States. It is bordered on the north and east by the U.S. state of New York, on the southeast and south by the Atlantic Ocean, on the west by Pennsylvania, and on the southwest by Delaware. New Jersey is the 4th least extensive, but the 11th most populous and the most densely populated of the 50 United States. New Jersey lies mostly within the sprawling metropolitan areas of New York City and Philadelphia. It is also the third wealthiest by 2009–2010 median household income.
The area was inhabited by Native Americans for more than 2,800 years, with historical tribes such as the Lenape along the coast. In the early 17th century, the Dutch and the Swedes made the first European settlements. The British later seized control of the region, naming it the Province of New Jersey. It was granted as a colony to Sir George Carteret and John Berkeley, 1st Baron Berkeley of Stratton. At this time, it was named after the largest of the British Channel Islands, Jersey, Carteret's birthplace. New Jersey was the site of several decisive battles during the American Revolutionary War.
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Northern Rock
Northern Rock plc is a British bank, owned and operated by Virgin Money. It is based at Regent Centre in Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom. During 2012 the Northern Rock brand is to be phased out and replaced by Virgin. Northern Rock was best known for becoming the first bank in 150 years to suffer a bank run after having had to approach the Bank of England for a loan facility, to replace money market funding, during the credit crisis in 2007. Having failed to find a commercial buyer for the business, it was taken into public ownership in 2008, and was then bought by Virgin Money in 2012.
Formerly the Northern Rock Building Society, the bank was formed in 1997 when the society floated on the London Stock Exchange (with the ticker symbol NRK). Since 1 January 2010 when it was split into a 'good' and a 'bad' bank, the "Northern Rock" name has referred to two companies – this bank, Northern Rock plc, and a separate asset company, Northern Rock (Asset Management) plc.
Northern Rock Building Society was formed in 1965 as a result of the merger of two North East Building Societies; the Northern Counties Permanent Building Society (established in 1850) and the Rock Building Society (established in 1865). During the 30 years that followed, Northern Rock expanded by acquiring 53 smaller building societies, most notably the North of England Building Society in 1994.
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Stowe School
Coordinates: 52°01′57″N 1°01′08″W / 52.0326°N 1.0190°W / 52.0326; -1.0190
Stowe School is an independent school in Stowe, Buckinghamshire. It was founded on 11 May 1923 by J.F. Roxburgh, initially with 99 male pupils. It is a member of the Rugby Group and Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference. The school is also a member of the G20 Schools Group. The headmaster, Dr Anthony Wallersteiner, was recognised as Tatler's Headmaster of the Year in 2007; the school was also shortlisted for the School of the Year award in 2009. The school is currently becoming fully co-educational. As of 2011[update], there are 550 boys and 220 girls.
The school has been based since its beginnings at Stowe House, formerly the country seat of the Dukes of Buckingham and Chandos. Along with many of the other buildings on the school's estate, the main house is now a Grade 1 Listed Building and is maintained by the Stowe House Preservation Trust.
The school is used as a first class cricket ground by Northamptonshire CCC, and is the home ground of the Northants Second XI.
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The Manor Studio
The Manor Studio (aka The Manor) was a recording studio in the manor house at the village of Shipton-on-Cherwell in Oxfordshire, England, north of the city of Oxford. It was the first residential recording studio in the UK. The concept was pioneered in 1969 by French musician Michel Magne in the Château d'Hérouville.
The manor house was owned by Richard Branson and used as a recording studio for Virgin Records, although artists signed to other labels also used the studios.
Albums recorded here include, perhaps most famously[according to whom?], Tubular Bells by Mike Oldfield during 1972–73 when Oldfield was given a week to record the album at the studio. The Bonzo Dog Band were recording there immediately afterwards (hence the inclusion of vocals by Viv Stanshall on Tubular Bells). Sandy Denny also began her second solo album Sandy there in March 1972.
In April 1995, after the takeover of Virgin Records by EMI, The Manor Studio was closed as a recording studio by EMI. It is now the country home of the Marquess of Headfort.
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Virgin Megastores
Virgin Megastores is an international chain of record shops, founded by Sir Richard Branson on London's Oxford Street in early 1971. Virgin Megastores are best described today as entertainment retailers.
In 1979 the company opened their first Megastore at the end of Oxford Street and Tottenham Court Road. The company expanded to hundreds of stores worldwide in the 1990s, but has lost a large number of stores in recent years, largely with the sale, and eventual closing, of the UK and US stores. Current operations are mainly in France, Australia and the Middle East, consisting of over 100 stores.
Richard Branson & Nik Powell had initially run a small record shop called Virgin Records and Tapes on Notting Hill Gate, London, specialising particularly in "krautrock" imports, and offering bean bags and free vegetarian food for the benefit of customers listening to the music on offer. After making the shop into a success, they turned their business into a fully fledged record label, Virgin Records. The name Virgin, according to Branson (in his autobiography), arose from a colleague of his when they were brainstorming business ideas. She suggested Virgin - as they were all new to business - like "virgins". The first release on the label was the progressive rock album Tubular Bells by multi-instrumentalist Mike Oldfield in 1973.
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Virgin Money
Virgin Money Limited is a UK-based bank and financial services company owned by the Virgin Group and founded by Sir Richard Branson in March 1995. It was originally known as Virgin Direct, and pioneered index tracking by launching a value Personal Equity Plan into the market. In the 2000s Virgin Money expanded its operations around the world.
In 2010 the company received a banking licence through the purchase of the Church House Trust and has plans to further expand into this sector. In 2012 Virgin Money bought Northern Rock plc for £747 million up front, with other potential payments of up to £280 million over the next few years.
It launched as Virgin Direct Personal Financial Services Limited in partnership with Norwich Union on 3 March 1995 offering PEP's and launched Virgin One, in a partnership with Royal Bank of Scotland, in 1997. In 1997 Australia's AMP bought Norwich Union's 50% stake in Virgin Direct. In 2000, virginmoney.com was launched as a price comparison website. In 2001 RBS bought out Virgin's stake in the joint venture.
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West Coast Main Line
The West Coast Main Line (WCML) is the busiest mixed-traffic railway route in Britain, being the country's most important rail backbone in terms of population served. Fast, long-distance inter-city passenger services are provided between London, the West Midlands, the North West, North Wales and the Central Belt of Scotland. Since an upgrade in recent years, much of the line has trains running at 125 mph (201 km/h), thereby meeting the European Union's definition of an upgraded high-speed line.
The WCML is the most important intercity rail passenger route in the United Kingdom, connecting London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow and many smaller towns and cities. In addition, several sections of the WCML form part of the suburban railway systems in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Glasgow, with many more smaller commuter stations, as well as providing a number of links to more rural towns. In 2008 the WCML handled 75 million passenger journeys.
The WCML is also one of the busiest freight routes in Europe, carrying 43% of all UK rail freight traffic. The line is the principal rail freight corridor linking the European mainland (via the Channel Tunnel) through London and south-east England to the West Midlands, north-west England and Scotland. The line has been declared a strategic European route and designated a priority Trans-European Networks (TENS) route.
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100 Greatest Britons
100 Greatest Britons was broadcast in 2002 by the BBC. The programme was the result of a vote conducted to determine whom the United Kingdom public considers the greatest British people in history. The series, Great Britons, included individual programmes on the top ten, with viewers having further opportunities to vote after each programme. It concluded with a debate. All of the top 10 were dead by the year of broadcast.
The poll resulted in candidates including Guy Fawkes, who was executed for trying to blow up the Parliament of England; Oliver Cromwell who created a republican England; Richard III, suspected of murdering his nephews; James Connolly, an Irish nationalist and socialist who was executed by the Crown in 1916; and a surprisingly high ranking of 17th for the former Some Mothers Do 'Ave 'Em star Michael Crawford. In addition to the Britons, some notable non-British entrants were listed, including two Irish nationals, the philanthropic musicians Bono and Bob Geldof. Furthermore, many candidates were from an era in which Britishness did not exist. The top 19 entries were people of English origin (though Sir Ernest Shackleton and Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington, were both born into Anglo-Irish families when what is now the Republic of Ireland was part of the United Kingdom). The highest-placed Scottish entry was Alexander Fleming in 20th place, with the highest Welsh entry, Owain Glyndŵr, at number 23. Sixty had lived in the twentieth century. The highest-ranked living person was Margaret Thatcher, who placed 16th.Ringo Starr is the only member of The Beatles not on the list.
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Al Gore
Albert Arnold "Al" Gore, Jr. (born March 31, 1948) served as the 45th Vice President of the United States (1993–2001), under President Bill Clinton. He was the Democratic Party's nominee for President and won the popular vote in the 2000 U.S. presidential election.
Gore is currently an author and environmental activist. He has founded a number of non-profit organizations, including the Alliance for Climate Protection, and has received a Nobel Peace Prize for his work in climate change activism.
Gore was previously an elected official for 24 years, representing Tennessee in the U.S. House of Representatives (1977–85), and later in the U.S. Senate (1985–93), and finally becoming Vice President in 1993. In the 2000 presidential election, Gore won the popular vote by a margin of more than 500,000 votes. However, he ultimately lost the Electoral College to Republican George W. Bush when the U.S. Supreme Court settled the legal controversy over the Florida vote recount by ruling 5-4 in favor of Bush. It was the only time in history that the Supreme Court has determined the outcome of a presidential election.
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Ben Bradshaw
Benjamin Peter James Bradshaw (born 30 August 1960) is a British Labour politician who has been the Member of Parliament (MP) for Exeter since 1997, and served in the Cabinet as Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. He previously worked as a BBC Radio reporter.
Bradshaw is the son of an Anglican vicar at Norwich Cathedral. Bradshaw was educated at Thorpe Grammar School (now the Thorpe St Andrew High School) near Norwich, followed by the University of Sussex where he read German. He also attended the University of Freiburg in the town of Freiburg im Breisgau in Baden-Württemberg in Germany.
In 1982/83 Bradshaw taught English at the Technikum, a school of technology in Winterthur (Switzerland). He became a reporter with the Exeter Express and Echo in 1984 and was appointed as a reporter with the Eastern Daily Press in Norwich in 1985. In 1986 he joined the BBC as reporter with BBC Radio Devon. In 1989 he became the award winning Berlin correspondent with BBC Radio and was serving in the city at the time of the fall of the Berlin Wall. He became a reporter in 1991 with BBC Radio's The World At One programme, where he stayed until his election to Westminster. He won the Sony News Reporter Award in 1993.
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Bertrand Piccard
Bertrand Piccard (born 1 March 1958) is a Swiss psychiatrist and balloonist.
Born in Lausanne, Vaud canton, Bertrand Piccard, along with Brian Jones, was the first to complete a non-stop balloon flight around the globe. His grandfather Auguste Piccard and his father, Jacques Piccard, were notable inventors and also balloonists.
Growing up in a ballooning and undersea-exploring family, Bertrand was always fascinated with flight. As a child, he was taken to the launch of several space flights from Cape Canaveral. He became a hang-glider pilot and developed an interest in ultra-light motorized flight, as well as the gas balloons his grandfather had set records in.
Bertrand Piccard received a degree from the University of Lausanne.
He is a lecturer and supervisor at the Swiss Society for Medical Hypnosis.
On 1 March 1999 Piccard and Brian Jones set off in the balloon Breitling Orbiter 3 from Château d'Oex in Switzerland on the first non-stop balloon circumnavigation around the globe. They landed in Egypt after a 45,755 kilometre flight lasting 19 days, 21 hours and 47 minutes. In recognition of this accomplishment, he received awards including the Harmon Trophy, the FAI Gold Air Medal and the Charles Green Salver.
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Bill Clinton
William Jefferson "Bill" Clinton (born William Jefferson Blythe III; August 19, 1946) is an American politician who served as the 42nd President of the United States from 1993 to 2001. Inaugurated at age 46, he was the third-youngest president. He took office at the end of the Cold War, and was the first president of the baby boomer generation. Clinton has been described as a New Democrat. Many of his policies have been attributed to a centrist Third Way philosophy of governance.
Born and raised in Arkansas, Clinton became both a student leader and a skilled musician. He is an alumnus of Georgetown University where he was Phi Beta Kappa and earned a Rhodes Scholarship to attend the University of Oxford. He is married to Hillary Rodham Clinton, who has served as the United States Secretary of State since 2009 and was a Senator from New York from 2001 to 2009. Both Clintons received law degrees from Yale Law School, where they met and began dating. As Governor of Arkansas, Clinton overhauled the state's education system, and served as Chair of the National Governors Association.
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Burt Rutan
Elbert Leander "Burt" Rutan (born June 17, 1943) is an American aerospace engineer noted for his originality in designing light, strong, unusual-looking, energy-efficient aircraft. He is famous for his design of the record-breaking Voyager, which was the first plane to fly around the world without stopping or refueling, and the sub-orbital spaceplane SpaceShipOne, which won the Ansari X-Prize in 2004 for becoming the first privately funded spacecraft to enter the realm of space twice within a two week period. He has five aircraft on display in the National Air and Space Museum: SpaceShipOne, the Virgin Atlantic GlobalFlyer, Voyager, Quickie, and the VariEze.
Born in 1943 in Estacada, Oregon, 30 miles southeast of Portland, and raised in Dinuba, California, Rutan displayed an early interest in aircraft design. By the time he was eight years old he was designing and building model aircraft. His first solo flight piloting an airplane was in an Aeronca Champ in 1959. In 1965 he graduated third in his class from the California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly-SLO) with a BS degree in aeronautical engineering.
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Dalai Lama
The Dalai Lama is a high lama in the Gelug or "Yellow Hat" branch of Tibetan Buddhism. The name is a combination of the Sino-Mongolian word далай (dalai) meaning "Ocean" and the Tibetan word བླ་མ་ bla-ma (with a silent "b") meaning "chief, high priest".
In religious terms, the Dalai Lama is believed by his devotees to be the rebirth of a long line of tulkus who are considered to be manifestations of the bodhisattva of compassion, Avalokiteśvara. Traditionally, the Dalai Lama is thought of as the latest reincarnation of a series of spiritual leaders who have chosen to be reborn in order to enlighten others. The Dalai Lama is often thought to be the leader of the Gelug School, but this position belongs officially to the Ganden Tripa, which is a temporary position appointed by the Dalai Lama who, in practice, exerts much influence. The line of Dalai Lamas began as a lineage of spiritual teachers; the 5th Dalai Lama assumed political authority over Tibet.
For certain periods between the 17th century and 1959, the Dalai Lamas sometimes directed the Tibetan government, which administered portions of Tibet from Lhasa. The 14th Dalai Lama remained the head of state for the Central Tibetan Administration ("Tibetan government in exile") until his retirement on March 14, 2011. He has indicated that the institution of the Dalai Lama may be abolished in the future, and also that the next Dalai Lama may be found outside Tibet and may be female. The Chinese government was very quick to reject this and claimed that only it has the authority to select the next Dalai Lama.
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David Frost
Sir David Paradine Frost, Kt., OBE (born 7 April 1939), is a British journalist, comedian, writer, media personality and daytime TV game show host best known for his two decades as host of Through the Keyhole and serious interviews with various political figures, the most notable being Richard Nixon. Since 2006, he has been hosting the weekly programme Frost Over the World on Al Jazeera English.
David Paradine Frost was born in Tenterden, Kent, on 7 April 1939 as the son of a Methodist minister of Huguenot descent, the Rev. W. J. Paradine Frost, and his wife Mona, and with two elder sisters. While living in Gillingham, Kent, he was taught in the Bible class of the Sunday school at his father's church (Byron Road Methodist) by David Gilmore Harvey, and subsequently started training as a Methodist local preacher, which he did not complete. He attended Barnsole Road Primary School in Gillingham, then Gillingham Grammar School and finally Wellingborough Grammar School. He subsequently won a place at Gonville & Caius College, Cambridge, where he graduated with a degree in English. Throughout his school years he was an avid football (soccer) and cricket player, and was actually offered a contract with Nottingham Forest F.C., which he turned down in order to attend university.
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Deepak Chopra
Deepak Chopra (Hindi: दीपक चोपड़ा; born October 22, 1946) is an Indian-born, American physician, public speaker, and writer. He is generally specialized in subjects such as spirituality, Ayurveda and mind-body medicine. Chopra began his career as an endocrinologist and later shifted his focus to alternative medicine. He now runs his own medical center with a focus on mind-body connections.[clarification needed] He is also a lecturer at the Update in Internal Medicine event.
Chopra was an assistant to Maharishi Mahesh Yogi before starting his own career in the late 1980s by publishing self-help books on New Age spirituality and alternative medicine. A friend of Michael Jackson for 20 years, Chopra criticized the "cult of drug-pushing doctors, with their co-dependent relationships with addicted celebrities", saying that he hoped Jackson's death, attributed to an overdose of a prescription drug, would be a call to action.
Chopra was born in New Delhi, India. His father, Krishan Chopra (1919–2001) was a prominent Indian cardiologist, and head of the department of medicine and cardiology at Mool Chand Khairati Ram Hospital, New Delhi, for over 25 years, He was also a lieutenant in the British army. His paternal grandfather was a sergeant in the British Army, who looked to Ayurveda for treatment for a heart condition when the condition did not improve with Western medicine.
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Desmond Tutu
Desmond Mpilo Tutu (born 7 October 1931) is a South African activist and retired Anglican bishop who rose to worldwide fame during the 1980s as an opponent of apartheid. He was the first black South African Archbishop of Cape Town, South Africa, and primate of the Church of the Province of Southern Africa (now the Anglican Church of Southern Africa).
Tutu has been active in the defense of human rights and uses his high profile to campaign for the oppressed. He has campaigned to fight AIDS, tuberculosis, poverty, racism, sexism, homophobia, and transphobia. Tutu received the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984; the Albert Schweitzer Prize for Humanitarianism in 1986; the Pacem in Terris Award in 1987; the Sydney Peace Prize in 1999; the Gandhi Peace Prize in 2005; and the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2009. Tutu has also compiled several books of his speeches and sayings.
Desmond Mpilo Tutu was born in Klerksdorp, Transvaal, the second of the three children of Zacheriah Zililo Tutu and his wife, Aletta, and the only son. Tutu's family moved to Johannesburg when he was twelve. His father was a teacher and his mother was a cleaner and cook at a school for the blind. Here he met Trevor Huddleston who was a parish priest in the black slum of Sophiatown. "One day," said Tutu, "I was standing in the street with my mother when a white man in a priest's clothing walked past. As he passed us he took off his hat to my mother. I couldn't believe my eyes – a white man who greeted a black working class woman!"
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Donald Trump
Donald John Trump, Sr. (born June 14, 1946) is an American business magnate, television personality and author. He is the chairman and president of The Trump Organization and the founder of Trump Entertainment Resorts. Trump's extravagant lifestyle, outspoken manner and role on the NBC reality show The Apprentice have made him a well-known celebrity who was No. 17 on the 2011 Forbes Celebrity 100 list. He is well-known as a real-estate developer who amassed vast hotel, casino, and other real-estate properties, in the New York City area and around the world.
Trump is the son of Fred Trump, a wealthy New York City real-estate developer. He worked for his father's firm, Elizabeth Trump & Son, while attending the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, and in 1968 officially joined the company. He was given control of the company in 1971 and renamed it The Trump Organization.
In 2010, Trump expressed an interest in becoming a candidate for President of the United States in the 2012 election. In May 2011, he announced he would not be a candidate, but a few weeks later he said he had not completely ruled out the possibility. In December 2011, Trump was suggested as a possible Vice Presidential selection by Michele Bachmann. Bachmann has since suspended her presidential campaign.
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Dudley Moore
Dudley Stuart John Moore, CBE (19 April 1935 – 27 March 2002) was an English actor, comedian, composer and musician.
Moore first came to prominence as one of the four writer-performers in the ground-breaking comedy revue Beyond the Fringe in the early 1960s, and then became famous as half of the highly popular television double-act he formed with Peter Cook.
His fame as a comedy film actor was later heightened by success in hit Hollywood films such as 10 with Bo Derek and Arthur in the late 1970s and early 1980s, respectively. He received an Oscar nomination for the latter role. He was frequently referred to in the media as "Cuddly Dudley" or "The Sex Thimble", a reference to his short stature and reputation as a "ladies' man".
Moore was born in Charing Cross Hospital, London, the son of Ada Francis (née Hughes), a secretary, and John Moore, a railway electrician. He was brought up in Dagenham, Essex. He was notably short: 5 ft 2.5 in (1.588 m) and was born with club feet that required extensive hospital treatment and which, coupled with his diminutive stature, made him the butt of jokes from other children. His right foot responded well to corrective treatment and had straightened itself by the time he was six, but his left foot became permanently twisted and consequently his left leg below the knee was withered. Seeking refuge from his problems, he became a choirboy at the age of six and took up piano and violin. He rapidly developed into a highly talented pianist and organist and was playing the pipe organ at church weddings by the age of 14. He attended Dagenham County High School (now The Sydney Russell School) where he received musical tuition from a dedicated teacher, Peter Cork. Cork became a friend and confidant to Moore, corresponding with him until 1994.
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Ela Bhatt
Ela Ramesh Bhatt (born 7 September 1933) is the founder of the Self-Employed Women's Association of India (SEWA). A lawyer by training, Bhatt is a respected leader of the international labour, cooperative, women, and micro-finance movements who has won several national and international awards.
Ela Bhatt was born in Ahmedabad in India. Her childhood was spent in the city of Surat. Her father, Sumantrai Bhatt, had a successful law practice. Her mother, Vanalila Vyas, was active in the women's movement. Bhatt attended the Sarvajanik Girls High School in Surat from 1940 to 1948. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the M.T.B. College in Surat in 1952. Following graduation Ela entered the Sir L. A. Shah Law College in Ahmedabad. In 1954 she received her degree in law and a Gold Medal for her work on Hindu Law. She then taught English for a short time at SNDT Women's University, better known as SNDT, in Mumbai. But in 1955 she joined the legal department of the Textile Labour Association (TLA) in Ahmedabad.
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Elizabeth II
Elizabeth II (Elizabeth Alexandra Mary; born 21 April 1926) is the constitutional monarch of 16 sovereign states known as the Commonwealth realms, and head of the 54-member Commonwealth of Nations. She is also head of state of the Crown Dependencies.
Elizabeth was born in London, and educated privately at home. Her father acceded to the throne as George VI in 1936 on the abdication of his brother Edward VIII. She began to undertake public duties during the Second World War, in which she served in the Auxiliary Territorial Service. On the death of her father in 1952, she became Head of the Commonwealth and queen regnant of seven independent Commonwealth countries: the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Pakistan, and Ceylon. Her coronation service in 1953 was the first to be televised. Between 1956 and 1992, the number of her realms varied as territories gained independence and some realms became republics. Today, in addition to the first four aforementioned countries, Elizabeth is Queen of Jamaica, Barbados, the Bahamas, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Tuvalu, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
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Financial Times
The Financial Times (FT) is an international business newspaper. It is a morning daily newspaper published in London and printed in 24 cities around the world.
Along with FT.com, it has an average daily readership of 2.1 million people worldwide (PwC audited figures, November 2011). FT.com has 4 million registered users and 250,000 digital subscribers, as well as 585,681 paying users. FT Chinese has more than 1.7 million registered users. The Financial Times in print format has an average daily circulation of three hundred and five thousand copies worldwide (the British edition has a daily circulation of eighty eight thousand and a combined Saturday and Sunday, weekend, circulation of one hundred and thirteen thousand copies), as of April 2012.
Founded in 1888 by James Sheridan and Horatio Bottomley, the Financial Times competed with four other finance-oriented newspapers, in 1945 absorbing the last, the Financial News (founded in 1884). The FT specialises in UK and international business and financial news, and is printed as a broadsheet on light salmon paper.
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Gotham Chopra
Gotham Chopra (born Gautama Chopra on February 23, 1975) is an American author. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts, the son of Deepak Chopra. He attended Belmont Hill School. Gotham was an undergraduate student at Columbia University.
Around the time he began his career at Channel One News, Chopra changed the spelling of his given name from "Gautama" to "Gotham." Chopra said that he changed the spelling because he was tired of "Gautama" being mispronounced in the United States. The pronunciation of both versions is the same. He is a partner in Chopra Media, with his sister, Mallika Chopra. Together they launched IntentBlog and Virgin Comics. In September 2008, Gotham and Virgin Comics co-founder, Sharad Devarajan led a management buyout of Virgin Comics and renamed the Company, Liquid Comics.
On July 3, 2009, Chopra gave an interview on CNN's Larry King Live at Neverland Ranch saying that he knew pop star Michael Jackson through his father for over two decades. He had also written about his friendship with Jackson on June 26, 2009 in the Huffington Post. He wrote about Jackson calling him at his dorm when he was a student at Columbia, asking him to help write lyrics for songs and about working with Jackson at his hotel suite in Manhattan as an informal "lyrical advisor." He recalled how Jackson called him at night "in a panic" after he had just married Lisa Marie Presley and asked him if he had any sex advice. He said he first met Jackson when he was 15 and spent days at the Neverland Ranch with his friends, sisters and cousins. He recalled Jackson's visits to his parents' house and spending a summer with Jackson on the Dangerous Tour. He said their relationship continued after they both became fathers and recalled going to Jackson's house a few years ago with his wife Candice (a physician) to help when Michael Jackson had an accidental fall. He said parenting was the focus of his last conversations with Jackson in the last few months before Jackson's death.
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Graça Machel
Graça Machel, DBE (born Graça Simbine; 17 October 1945) is a Mozambican politician and humanitarian. She is the third wife of former South African president Nelson Mandela and the widow of Mozambican president Samora Machel. She is an international advocate for women’s and children’s rights and in 1997 was made a British dame for her humanitarian work.
Graça Machel is also known for being the only woman in the world to have been first lady of two different countries.
Born in rural Incadine, Gaza Province, Mozambique (Portuguese East Africa), she attended Methodist mission schools before gaining a scholarship to attend University of Lisbon in Portugal, where she first became involved in independence issues. In that university, she earned a scholarship from Romance Languages. She is fluent in French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and English, as well as her native Tsonga. She returned to Mozambique in 1973, joined the Mozambican Liberation Front (FRELIMO) and became a schoolteacher.
Following Mozambique's independence in 1975, Machel was appointed Minister for Education and Culture. She married Samora Machel the same year. Following her retirement from the Mozambique ministry, Machel was appointed as the expert in charge of producing the groundbreaking United Nations report on the impact of armed conflict on children. Her first husband died in a plane crash over South Africa in 1986.
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James Lovelock
James Ephraim Lovelock, CH, CBE, FRS, Ph.D (born 26 July 1919) is an independent scientist, environmentalist and futurologist who lives in Devon, England. He is best known for proposing the Gaia hypothesis, which postulates that the biosphere is a self-regulating entity with the capacity to keep our planet healthy by controlling the chemical and physical environment.
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James May
James Daniel May (born 16 January 1963) is an English television presenter, journalist and writer. He is best known for his role as co-presenter of the award-winning motoring program Top Gear alongside Jeremy Clarkson , and Richard Hammond.
On Top Gear, May has the nickname "Captain Slow" for his careful driving style, a love of small underpowered cars and habit of getting lost and distracted while driving. However, in a July 2010 episode of Top Gear he drove a Bugatti Veyron Super Sport, reaching a speed of 417.6 kilometres per hour (259.5 mph). After his attempt the Bugatti test driver Pierre-Henri Raphanel took the car to 430 kilometers per hour (267.5 mph).
May has presented a variety of other programs on themes including science and technology, toys, cars, wine culture, and the plight of manliness in modern times. In addition he has released a variety of DVDs and books with similar themes, and wrote a weekly column for The Daily Telegraph's motoring section.
James May was born in Bristol, one of four children; he has two sisters and a brother. May attended Caerleon Endowed Junior School in Newport, then in Monmouthshire. He spent his teenage years in South Yorkshire where he attended Oakwood Comprehensive School in Rotherham and was a choirboy at Whiston Parish Church. He was also at school with Life On Mars and Ashes to Ashes star Dean Andrews. A keen flautist and pianist, he later studied music at Pendle College, Lancaster University. After graduating, May briefly worked at a hospital in Chelsea as a records officer, and had a short stint in Her Majesty's Civil Service.
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Jeremy Clarkson
Jeremy Charles Robert Clarkson (born 11 April 1960) is an English broadcaster, journalist and writer who specialises in motoring. He is best known for his role on the BBC TV show Top Gear along with co-presenters Richard Hammond and James May. He also writes weekly columns for The Sunday Times and The Sun.
From a career as a local journalist in Northern England, Clarkson rose to public prominence as a presenter of the original format of Top Gear in 1988. Since the mid-1990s, Clarkson has become a recognised public personality, regularly appearing on British television presenting his own shows and appearing as a guest on other shows. As well as motoring, Clarkson has produced programmes and books on subjects such as history and engineering. From 1998 to 2000 he also hosted his own chat show, Clarkson.
His opinionated but humorous tongue-in-cheek writing and presenting style has often generated much public reaction to his viewpoints. His actions both privately and as a Top Gear presenter have also sometimes resulted in criticism from the media, politicians, pressure groups and the public.
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Jessica Watson
Jessica Watson, OAM (born 18 May 1993) is an Australian sailor. She resides in Buderim, Queensland. In May 2010, she unofficially became the youngest person to sail non-stop and unassisted around the world, although her route did not meet World Sailing Speed Record Council (WSSRC) criteria for circumnavigation of the globe.
Watson departed from Sydney on 18 October 2009, heading eastbound over the Pacific Ocean, Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean. She returned to Sydney on 15 May 2010, three days before her 17th birthday.
On 25 January 2011 she was named the 2011 Young Australian of the Year. The following year she was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia.
Watson was born on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. The second of four children of New Zealand couple Roger and Julie Watson, who moved to Australia in 1987, she has dual Australian and New Zealand nationality. She has an older sister (Emily) and younger brother and sister (Tom and Hannah). All four took sailing lessons as children, and the family went on to live on board a 16 metre cabin cruiser for five years, the children being home schooled via distance learning. Later they lived on a purpose-built double decker bus for some time. When Jessica was eleven and they were still living on the boat, her mother read Jesse Martin's book Lionheart: A Journey of the Human Spirit to the children as a bedtime story. This led to Jessica forming the ambition at age twelve to sail around the world too.
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Jimmy Carter
James Earl "Jimmy" Carter, Jr. (born October 1, 1924) is an American politician who served as the 39th President of the United States (1977–1981) and was the recipient of the 2002 Nobel Peace Prize, the only U.S. President to have received the Prize after leaving office. Before he became President, Carter served as a U.S. Naval officer, was a peanut farmer, served two terms as a Georgia State Senator and one as Governor of Georgia (1971–1975).
During Carter's term as President, two new cabinet-level departments were created: the Department of Energy and the Department of Education. He established a national energy policy that included conservation, price control, and new technology. In foreign affairs, Carter pursued the Camp David Accords, the Panama Canal Treaties, the second round of Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT II), and returned the Panama Canal Zone to Panama. Throughout his career, Carter strongly emphasized human rights. He took office during a period of international stagflation, which persisted throughout his term. The end of his presidential tenure was marked by the 1979–1981 Iran hostage crisis, the 1979 energy crisis, the Three Mile Island nuclear accident, the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan (at the end of 1979), 1980 Summer Olympics boycott by the United States of the Moscow Olympics and the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens.
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Jimmy Wales
Jimmy Donal "Jimbo" Wales ( /ˈdoʊnəl ˈweɪlz/; born August 7, 1966) is an American Internet entrepreneur best known as a co-founder and promoter of the online non-profit encyclopedia Wikipedia and the Wikia company. Wales was born in Huntsville, Alabama, United States, where he attended Randolph School, a university-preparatory school, then earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in finance. While in graduate school, he taught at two universities, but left before completing a PhD in order to take a job in finance and later worked as the research director of a Chicago futures and options firm. In 1996, he and two partners founded Bomis, a male-oriented web portal featuring entertainment and adult content. The company would provide the initial funding for the peer-reviewed free encyclopedia Nupedia (2000–2003) and its successor, Wikipedia.
On January 15, 2001, with Larry Sanger and others, Wales launched Wikipedia, a free, open content encyclopedia that enjoyed rapid growth and popularity, and as Wikipedia’s public profile grew, he became the project’s promoter and spokesman. He is historically cited as a co-founder of Wikipedia, though he has disputed the "co-" designation, declaring himself the sole founder. Wales serves on the Board of Trustees of the Wikimedia Foundation, the non-profit charitable organization he helped establish to operate Wikipedia, holding its board-appointed "community founder" seat. In 2004, he co-founded Wikia, a for-profit wiki-hosting service. His role in creating Wikipedia, which has become the world’s largest encyclopedia, prompted Time magazine to name him in its 2006 list of the world’s most influential people.
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Joel McHale
Joel Edward McHale (born November 20, 1971) is an Italian-born American stand-up comedian, actor, writer, television producer, television personality, and voice artist. He is best known for hosting The Soup and for his role as Jeff Winger on the NBC comedy series Community.
McHale's role as a voice actor includes Elliot in Open Season 2, filling in for Ashton Kutcher. He also appeared in Spider-Man 2 in a cameo appearance as bank manager Mr. Jacks, CSI: Miami as Greg Welsh, and Spy Kids: All the Time in the World as Wilbur Wilson.
McHale, the middle of three brothers, was born in Rome, Italy on November 20, 1971. His mother, Laurie, is from Vancouver, British Columbia, and his father, Jack, is from Chicago. McHale and his brothers were born in Rome, where their father worked for an American university. He grew up in the Seattle area, graduating from Mercer Island High School in 1991. He also participated at Youth Theatre Northwest.
He received a bachelor's degree in History from the University of Washington in 1995. While at the University of Washington, McHale briefly belonged to the Theta Chi Fraternity. He was recruited to be on the rowing team, but later walked onto the football team, playing tight end for two years. McHale received a Master of Fine Arts degree from the Professional Actors Training Program at the University of Washington.
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Jung Chang
Jung Chang (simplified Chinese: 张戎; traditional Chinese: 張戎; pinyin: Zhāng Róng; Wade–Giles: Chang Jung, born March 25, 1952) is a Chinese-British writer now living in London, best known for her family autobiography Wild Swans, selling over 10 million copies worldwide but banned in the People's Republic of China.
Her 832-page biography of Mao Zedong, Mao: The Unknown Story, written with her husband, the British historian Jon Halliday, was published in June 2005.
Chang was born March 25, 1952 in Yibin, Sichuan Province, China. Her parents were both Communist Party of China officials, and her father was greatly interested in literature. She quickly developed a love of reading and writing, composing poetry as a child.
As Party cadres, life was relatively good for her family at first; her parents worked hard, and her father became successful as a propagandist at a regional level. His formal ranking was as a "level 10 official", meaning that he was one of 20,000 or so most important cadres, or ganbu, in the country. The Communist Party provided her family with a dwelling in a guarded, walled compound, a maid and chauffeur, as well as a wet-nurse and nanny for Chang and her three siblings. This level of privilege in China's relatively impoverished 1950s was extraordinary.
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Kate Winslet
Kate Elizabeth Winslet (born 5 October 1975) is an English actress. She was the youngest person to accrue six Academy Award nominations, and won the Academy Award for Best Actress for The Reader (2008). She has won awards from the Screen Actors Guild, British Academy of Film and Television Arts, and the Hollywood Foreign Press Association among others, and has been nominated twice for an Emmy Award for television acting, winning once for her role as Mildred Pierce in the 2011 mini-series of the same name.
Brought up in Berkshire, Winslet studied drama from childhood, and began her career in British television in 1991. She made her film debut in Heavenly Creatures (1994), for which she received her first notable critical praise. She achieved recognition for her subsequent work in a supporting role in Sense and Sensibility (1995) and for her leading role in Titanic (1997), the highest grossing film at the time, and the highest grossing film of Winslet's career.
Since 2000, Winslet's performances have continued to draw positive comments from film critics, and she has been nominated for various awards for her work in such films as Quills (2000), Iris (2001), Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004), Finding Neverland (2004), Little Children (2006), The Reader (2008) and Revolutionary Road (2008). Her performance in the last of these prompted New York magazine critic David Edelstein to describe her as "the best English-speaking film actress of her generation". The romantic comedy The Holiday and the animated film Flushed Away (both 2006) are among the biggest commercial successes of her career.
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Kofi Annan
Kofi Atta Annan ( /ˈkoʊfi ˈænən/; born 8 April 1938) is a Ghanaian diplomat who served as the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations, from 1 January 1997 to 31 December 2006. Annan and the United Nations were the co-recipients of the 2001 Nobel Peace Prize for his founding of the Global AIDS and Health Fund to support developing countries in their struggle to care for their people.
Since February 2012, Annan has been the UN-Arab League envoy to Syria, to help find a resolution to ongoing conflict there.
Kofi Annan was born in Kumasi, Ghana. His twin sister Efua Atta, who died in 1991, shares the middle name Atta, which in Fante and Akan means 'twin'. Annan and his sister were born into one of the country's aristocratic families; both their grandfathers and their uncle were tribal chiefs.
In the Akan names tradition, some children are named according to the day of the week on which they were born, and/or in relation to how many children precede them. Kofi in Akan is the name that corresponds with Friday.
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Larry Page
Lawrence "Larry" Page (born March 26, 1973) is an American computer scientist and internet entrepreneur who, with Sergey Brin, is best known as the co-founder of Google. On April 4, 2011, he took on the role of chief executive officer of Google, replacing Eric Schmidt. As of 2012[update], his personal wealth is estimated to be $18.7 billion. He is the inventor of PageRank, which became the foundation of Google's search ranking algorithm. Together, Brin and Page own about 16 percent of the company's stake.
Larry Page was born in Lansing, Michigan. His father, Carl Page, earned a Ph.D. in computer science in 1965 when the field was in its infancy, and is considered a "pioneer in computer science and artificial intelligence." Both he and Page's mother were computer science professors at Michigan State University. Gloria Page, his mother, is Jewish but he was raised without religion.
Page attended the Okemos Montessori School (now called Montessori Radmoor) in Okemos, Michigan from 1975 to 1979, and graduated from East Lansing High School in 1991. He holds a Bachelor of Science in computer engineering from the University of Michigan with honors and a Master of Science in computer science from Stanford University. While at the University of Michigan, "Page created an inkjet printer made of Lego bricks" (actually a line plotter), served as the president of the Eta Kappa Nu in Fall 1994, and was a member of the 1993 "Maize & Blue" University of Michigan Solar Car team.
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Lawrence Bender
Lawrence Bender (born October 17, 1957) is an American film producer. He rose to fame by producing Reservoir Dogs in 1992 and has since produced all of Quentin Tarantino's films with the exception of Death Proof and Django Unchained.
In the 1980s, he worked as a grip on the syndicated anthology series Tales from the Darkside. In 1989, he produced the film Intruder, in which leading roles are Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell. His films to date, including such hits as Inglourious Basterds, Pulp Fiction and Good Will Hunting, have been honored with 29 Academy Award nominations, including three for Best Picture, and have won 6. His film An Inconvenient Truth, which raised unprecedented awareness about climate change, won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. His latest documentary, Countdown to Zero, features Tony Blair, Presidents, Musharef, Gorbachev, De Klerk and Carter among others, details the urgent risk posed by proliferation, terrorism, and accidental use of nuclear weapons. Other films include, From Dusk Till Dawn (1996), Anna And The King (1999), The Mexican (2001), Innocent Voices (2004), and Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs (1992), Jackie Brown (1997), Kill Bill: Vol. 1 and Vol. 2 (2004). Lawrence has also produced, Dirty Dancing: Havana Nights; Knockaround Guys; A Price Above Rubies; White Man's Burden; Killing Zoe; and Fresh. He produced the 2012 film Safe, which starred Jason Statham.
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Li Zhaoxing
Li Zhaoxing (Chinese: 李肇星; pinyin: Lǐ Zhàoxīng; born October 20, 1940 in Jiaonan, Qingdao, Shandong) is a former foreign minister of the People's Republic of China. He held that office from 2003 to 2007.
He graduated from Peking University in 1964. He worked as a diplomat in Africa before becoming Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs in 1990 and Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs in 1995, ambassador to the United States in 1998, and Foreign Minister in 2003.
He was initially appointed as one of the Elders but chose not to continue with the role. He is presently a professor at Peking University. He is married, and has one son.
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Margaret Thatcher
Margaret Hilda Thatcher, Baroness Thatcher, LG, OM, PC, FRS, née Roberts (born 13 October 1925) is a British politician and the longest-serving (1979–1990) British prime minister of the 20th century, and the only woman ever to have held the post. A Soviet journalist nicknamed her the "Iron Lady", which later became associated with her uncompromising politics and leadership style. As prime minister, she implemented conservative policies that have come to be known as Thatcherism.
Originally a research chemist before becoming a barrister, Thatcher was elected Member of Parliament (MP) for Finchley in 1959. Edward Heath appointed her Secretary of State for Education and Science in his 1970 government. In 1975 Thatcher defeated Heath in the Conservative Party leadership election and became Leader of the Opposition, as well as the first woman to lead a major political party in the United Kingdom. She became prime minister after winning the 1979 general election.
After entering 10 Downing Street, Thatcher introduced a series of political and economic initiatives to reverse what she perceived as Britain's precipitous national decline. Her political philosophy and economic policies emphasised deregulation (particularly of the financial sector), flexible labour markets, the privatisation of state-owned companies, and reducing the power and influence of trade unions. Thatcher's popularity during her first years in office waned amid recession and high unemployment, until economic recovery and the 1982 Falklands War brought a resurgence of support, resulting in her re-election in 1983. Thatcher was re-elected for a third term in 1987, but her Community Charge (popularly referred to as "poll tax") was widely unpopular and her views on the European Community were not shared by others in her Cabinet. She resigned as Prime Minister and party leader in November 1990, after Michael Heseltine launched a challenge to her leadership.
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Mary Robinson
Mary Therese Winifred Robinson (née Bourke) (Irish: Máire Mhic Róibín; born 21 May 1944) served as the seventh, and first female, President of Ireland from 1990 to 1997, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, from 1997 to 2002. She first rose to prominence as an academic, barrister, campaigner and member of the Irish Senate (1969–1989). She defeated Fianna Fáil's Brian Lenihan and Fine Gael's Austin Currie in the 1990 presidential election becoming, as an Independent candidate nominated by the Labour Party, the Workers' Party and independent senators, the first elected president in the office's history not to have had the support of Fianna Fáil.
She is widely regarded as a transformative figure in the presidency of Ireland, who revitalised and liberalised a previously conservative, low-profile political office. She resigned the presidency two months ahead of the end of her term of office to take up her post in the United Nations. Robinson has been Honorary President of Oxfam International since 2002 and of the European Inter-University Centre for Human Rights and Democratisation EIUC since 2005, she is Chair of the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) and is also a founding member and Chair of the Council of Women World Leaders. Robinson was a member of the European members of the Trilateral Commission.
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Matthew Riley
Matthew Riley is a British entrepreneur and the founder and chief executive officer of Daisy Group plc, the AIM listed organisation that provides unified communications to businesses in the UK.
In 2011 Alan Sugar enlisted the help of Riley to assist him in deciding the winner in the BBC TV series The Apprentice. The 37-year-old was one of four people tasked with interviewing the final four candidates.
Riley is notable for his success as an entrepreneur, named Ernst and Young’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2007 and more famously his success in the Bank of Scotland [1] Corporate Entrepreneur Challenge where he was awarded £5m in interest free funding and mentoring from Sir Philip Green.
Born in Burnley, Lancashire, in 1974, he attended Ss John Fisher and Thomas More High School, Colne.
Leaving school at 16 years of age, Riley joined Burnley-based office equipment firm FH Brown and began a career as a technician, undertaking a YTS apprenticeship. On successful completion of his YTS Riley moved into a sales role within the firm, where he stayed until 1997, before joining German-based communications firm DeTeWe.
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Mia Farrow
Mia Farrow (born February 9, 1945) is an American actress, singer, humanitarian, and fashion model.
Farrow first gained wide acclaim for her role as Allison MacKenzie in the soap opera Peyton Place, and for her subsequent short-lived marriage to Frank Sinatra. An early film role, as the woman pregnant with Satan's baby in 1968's Rosemary's Baby, saw her portrayal nominated for many awards.
Farrow has appeared in more than 45 films and won numerous awards, including a Golden Globe award (and seven additional Golden Globe nominations), three BAFTA Film Award nominations, and a win for best actress at the San Sebastian International Film Festival. Farrow is also known for her extensive humanitarian work as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. She is involved in humanitarian activities in Darfur, Chad, and the Central African Republic. In 2008, Time magazine named her one of the most influential people in the world.
Farrow was born as Maria de Lourdes Villiers Farrow in Los Angeles, California, the daughter of Australian film director John Farrow and Irish actress Maureen O'Sullivan. She was raised Roman Catholic. Her sisters are Prudence and actors Stephanie and Tisa. She has three brothers: Michael Damien (1939–1958), Patrick Joseph (1942–2009) and John Charles (born 1946).[citation needed]
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Mike Oldfield
Michael Gordon Oldfield (born 15 May 1953) is an English multi-instrumentalist musician and composer, working a style that blends progressive rock, folk, ethnic or world music, classical music, electronic music, New Age, and more recently, dance. His music is often elaborate and complex in nature. He is best known for his hit 1973 album Tubular Bells, which launched Virgin Records, and for his 1983 hit single "Moonlight Shadow". He is also well known for his hit rendition of the Christmas piece, "In Dulci Jubilo".
Oldfield's parents are Raymond Oldfield, a general practitioner, and his wife Maureen Liston, a nurse. His sister Sally and brother Terry are successful musicians in their own right and have appeared on several of his albums. Mike Oldfield was born in the Battle Hospital, Reading, Berkshire, and he attended St Joseph's Convent School, Highlands Junior School in Tilehurst, St Edward's Preparatory School, and Presentation College in Reading. When he was 13 he moved with his parents to Harold Wood in northeast London, where he attended Hornchurch Grammar School. He only stayed there long enough to take one GCE examination, in English, as he had already begun his music career.
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Muhammad Yunus
Muhammad Yunus (Bengali: মুহাম্মদ ইউনুস, pronounced Muhammôd Iunus; born 28 June 1940) is a Bangladeshi economist and founder of the Grameen Bank, an institution that provides microcredit (small loans to poor people possessing no collateral) to help its clients establish creditworthiness and financial self-sufficiency. In 2006 Yunus and Grameen received the Nobel Peace Prize "for their efforts through microcredit to create economic and social development from below". Yunus himself has received several other national and international honors.
He is a member of advisory board at Shahjalal University of Science and Technology. Previously, he was a professor of economics at Chittagong University where he developed the concepts of microcredit and microfinance. These loans are given to entrepreneurs too poor to qualify for traditional bank loans. He is the author of Banker to the Poor and two books on Social Business Models, and a founding board member of Grameen America and Grameen Foundation. Grameen Intel is just one of hundreds of public and private partnerships now mediated through Youth & Yunus. In early 2007 Yunus showed interest in launching a political party in Bangladesh named Nagorik Shakti (Citizen Power), but later discarded the plan. He is one of the founding members of Global Elders.
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Nelson Mandela
Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela (Xhosa pronunciation: [xoˈliːɬaɬa manˈdeːla]; born 18 July 1918) is a South African politician who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999, the first ever to be elected in a fully representative democratic election. Before being elected President, Mandela was a militant anti-apartheid activist, and the leader and co-founder of Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the African National Congress (ANC). In 1962 he was arrested and convicted of sabotage and other charges, and sentenced to life imprisonment. Mandela went on to serve 27 years in prison, spending many of these years on Robben Island. Following his release from prison on 11 February 1990, Mandela led his party in the negotiations that led to the establishment of democracy in 1994. As President, he frequently gave priority to reconciliation, while introducing policies aimed at combating poverty and inequality in South Africa.
In South Africa, Mandela is often known as Madiba, his Xhosa clan name; or as tata (Xhosa: father). Mandela has received more than 250 awards over four decades.
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Nik Powell
Nik Powell (born 4 November 1950 in Lilac Cottage, Gt Kingshill, Buckinghamshire, England) is one of the co-founders of the Virgin Group with Richard Branson. After operating a mail-order company, a small record shop, and a recording studio, the partners established Virgin Records in 1972. It became one of the UK's major recording labels until it was sold to EMI in 1992.
Nik was educated firstly at Longacre School, Shamley Green, Guildford, Surrey moving when he was 7 to a small Catholic preparatory school - St Richard's, in Bredenbury, outside Malvern. From there he went to Ampleforth College, North Yorkshire and subsequently spent a year at the University of Sussex.
In 1983, Powell and Stephen Woolley founded Palace Productions, which produced The Company of Wolves (1984), Mona Lisa (1986), and The Crying Game (1992). After presiding over the 1992 collapse of the company, Powell re-established himself in the film industry with Scala Productions and has since produced Fever Pitch, Twenty Four Seven, Last Orders, B. Monkey, and Ladies in Lavender.
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Paul Allen
Paul Gardner Allen (born January 21, 1953) is an American investor and philanthropist best known as the co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, a leading developer of personal-computer software systems and applications. He is also the 48th richest person in the world along with Germán Larrea Mota-Velasco (and family) who ranks the same with an estimated wealth of $14.2 billion as of March 2012.. He is the founder and chairman of Vulcan Inc., which manages his business and philanthropic efforts. Allen also has a multi-billion dollar investment portfolio which includes technology companies, real estate holdings, and stakes in other technology, media, and content companies. Allen also owns two professional sports teams, the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League (NFL), and the Portland Trail Blazers of the National Basketball Association (NBA). He is also part-owner of the Seattle Sounders FC, which joined Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2009. Allen's memoir Idea Man: A Memoir by the Cofounder of Microsoft was released on April 19, 2011.
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Per Lindstrand
Per Lindstrand (born September 8, 1948) is a Swedish aeronautical engineer, pilot, adventurer and entrepreneur. He is particularly known for his series of record-breaking trans-oceanic hot air balloon flights and, later, attempts to be the first to fly a Rozière balloon around the Earth - all with British entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson. He is also the founder of eponymous Lindstrand Balloons hot air balloon manufacturer based in Oswestry, England.
Lindstrand not only flies balloons, but many other aircraft as well, and holds an airline transport pilot's licence for single and multi-engined land and sea aeroplanes and helicopters, and a commercial pilot's licence for auto-gyros, airships and gliders. His long standing dream to make a flight around the world in a hot air balloon (as opposed to a Rozière or gas balloon which requires no constant source of heated air) still remains unrealized. His distance, duration and altitude records have made him one of the best known balloonists and aerostat designers and engineers in the world.
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Peter Cook
Peter Edward Cook (17 November 1937 – 9 January 1995) was an English satirist, writer and comedian. An extremely influential figure in modern British comedy, he is regarded as the leading light of the British satire boom of the 1960s. Cook has been described by Stephen Fry as "the funniest man who ever drew breath", although his work was also controversial. Cook was closely associated with anti-establishment comedy which emerged in Britain and the United States in the late 1950s.
Cook was born at his parents' house "Shearbridge", in Middle Warberry Road, Torquay, Devon. He was the only son and eldest of the three children of Alexander Edward (Alec) Cook (1906–1984), a colonial civil servant, and his wife Ethel Catherine Margaret, née Mayo (1908–1994). He was educated at Radley College and Pembroke College, Cambridge, where he studied French and German. As a student, Cook initially intended to become a career diplomat like his father, but Britain "had run out of colonies", as he put it. Although politically largely apathetic, particularly in later life when he displayed a deep distrust of politicians of all hues, he did join the Cambridge University Liberal Club.
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Peter Gabriel
Peter Brian Gabriel (born 13 February 1950) is an English singer, musician, and songwriter who rose to fame as the lead vocalist and flautist of the progressive rock group Genesis. After leaving Genesis, Gabriel went on to a successful solo career. His 1986 album, So, is his most commercially successful, and the album's biggest hit, "Sledgehammer", won a record nine MTV Awards at the 1987 MTV Video Music Awards, and the song is the most played music video in the history of the station.
More recently, Gabriel has focused on producing and promoting world music and pioneering digital distribution methods for music. He has also been involved in various humanitarian efforts. Gabriel has won numerous music awards throughout his career, including three Brit Awards—winning Best British Male in 1987, six Grammy Awards, thirteen MTV Video Music Awards, and in 2007 he was honoured as a BMI Icon at the 57th annual BMI London Awards for his “influence on generations of music makers.” Gabriel was also awarded the Polar Music Prize in 2009, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Genesis in 2010.
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Piers Morgan
Piers Stefan Pughe-Morgan (born Piers Stefan O'Meara; 30 March 1965), known professionally as Piers Morgan, is a British journalist and television presenter. He is editorial director of First News, a national newspaper for children.
Morgan branched into television mainly as a presenter, but has become best known as a judge or contestant in reality television programmes. In the UK, he was a judge on Britain's Got Talent. Morgan is best known in the United States as a judge on the show America's Got Talent, and as the winner of The Celebrity Apprentice. On 17 January 2011, he began hosting Piers Morgan Tonight for CNN in the timeslot previously occupied by Larry King Live after the retirement of host Larry King.
Morgan has authored eight books, including three volumes of memoirs.
Piers Morgan was born on 30 March 1965, in Guildford, Surrey, England, to Eamon Vincent O'Meara, a dentist, of Dorking, Surrey, and Gabrielle Georgina Sybille (née Oliver). His father died when he was one year old; his mother subsequently remarried. He has three older siblings. His ancestry includes Irish, Portuguese, Scottish, and English. Morgan was raised Catholic. Named Piers Stefan Pughe-Morgan by his stepfather, Morgan attended an independent school called Cumnor House from the ages of seven to thirteen, and then Chailey School, a comprehensive secondary school in Chailey, near Lewes, East Sussex, followed by Lewes Priory School for VI form. Morgan studied Journalism at Harlow College. After a brief career at Lloyds of London, he joined the Surrey and South London Newspaper Group in 1985, where he worked as a reporter on the South London News, and the Streatham and Tooting News. Morgan was recruited (he says headhunted by editor Kelvin MacKenzie) to join The Sun newspaper, specifically to work on the Bizarre column.
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Richard Branson
Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (born 18 July 1950) is an English business magnate, best known for his Virgin Group of more than 400 companies.
His first business venture was a magazine called Student at the age of 16. In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s, as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label.
Branson is the 4th richest citizen of the United Kingdom, according to the Forbes 2011 list of billionaires, with an estimated net worth of US$4.2 billion.
Branson was born in Blackheath, London, the son and eldest child of barrister Edward James Branson (10 March 1918 – 19 March 2011) and Eve Huntley Branson (née Flindt). His grandfather, the Right Honourable Sir George Arthur Harwin Branson, was a judge of the High Court of Justice and a Privy Councillor. Branson was educated at Scaitcliffe School (now Bishopsgate School) until the age of thirteen. He then attended Stowe School until the age of sixteen. Branson has dyslexia and had poor academic performance as a student, but later discovered his ability to connect with others.
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Richard Hammond
Richard Mark Hammond (born 19 December 1969) is an English broadcaster, writer, and journalist most noted for co-hosting the car programme Top Gear with Jeremy Clarkson and James May, as well as presenting series 1–4 of Brainiac: Science Abuse on Sky 1. Since 2009, Hammond has co-hosted Total Wipeout with Amanda Byram on BBC One which has since been cancelled.
Hammond is currently presenting Planet Earth Live alongside Julia Bradbury.
Hammond was born in Solihull and is the grandson of workers in the Birmingham automobile industry. In the mid-1980s Hammond moved with his family (mother Eileen, father Alan, and younger brothers Andrew, writer of the 'Crypt' Series, and Nicholas) to the North Yorkshire cathedral city of Ripon where his father ran a probate business in the market square. Originally a pupil of Solihull School, a fee-paying boys' independent school, he moved to Ripon Grammar School, and from 1987 to 1989 attended Harrogate College of Art and Technology. After his graduation he worked for several radio stations, including Radio Cleveland, Radio York, Radio Cumbria, Radio Leeds, Radio Newcastle and Radio Lancashire, before auditioning for Top Gear.
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Rove McManus
John Henry Michael "Rove" McManus (born 21 January 1974) is an Australian comedian, television presenter, producer and media personality. He was the host of the self-titled variety show Rove, and is the owner of the production company Roving Enterprises. He is a three time Gold Logie Award winner.
McManus was born in Perth, Western Australia to John and Coralie McManus. He acquired the nickname "Rove" from his sister.
He married actress and singer Belinda Emmett in 2005 at the Mary Immaculate Church in Waverley, a suburb in the east of Sydney. Emmett died of metastatic breast cancer on 11 November 2006 at St Vincent's Hospital in Sydney.
McManus began dating actress Tasma Walton in October 2007. They married on 16 June 2009 in a private ceremony on a beach in Broome, Western Australia.
In 1997 McManus began hosting The Loft Live, which was produced by RMIT University's Student television stationRMITV, on the community television station, Channel 31 where he was given a budget of $50 a week. It was there where he met his now long-time co-host, Peter Helliar.[citation needed] Rove then worked for Foxtel as a roving reporter on a show called In Fashion which was hosted by Hugh Jackman. He then received an offer for ten late night episodes of his own variety show, Rove for the Nine Network in 1999, but Nine cancelled the series at the end of its run. In 2000, McManus was offered the opportunity to produce a new version of the Rove show for Network Ten. The resulting Rove Live was almost identical to Nine's Rove. Rove Live became a flagship show for Network Ten, and it was also broadcast on TV3 in New Zealand. The show followed a variety show format and showcased weekly celebrity guests; comedy acts; variety segments; local and international comedians; and live bands.
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Sharad Devarajan
Sharad Devarajan is the co-founder, Chief Executive Officer and Publisher of Virgin Comics LLC and Virgin Animation Pvt. Ltd, a set of companies he co-founded with Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Group, acclaimed author Deepak Chopra, filmmaker Shekhar Kapur and entrepreneurs Gautam Chopra and Suresh Seetharaman. Recently Mr. Devarajan led a management buyout of Virgin Comics and renamed the Company, Liquid Comics.
At Liquid Comics, Mr. Devarajan has built a studio of artists and writers to create a new wave of mythic character properties to be marketed worldwide in comics, games, animation and live-action films. Mr. Devarajan has also created entertainment products with acclaimed filmmakers, actors and musicians including John Woo,Guy Ritchie,Dave Stewart, Duran Duran, Terry Gilliam, Edward Burns and Nicolas Cage.
Mr. Devarajan is also a Producer / Executive Producer on a number of theatrical live-action film projects based on Virgin’s comic properties including, The Sadhu; the Warner Bros. film adaptation of Gamekeeper with director Guy Ritchie and producer Joel Silver; Virulents with New Regency and The Leaves with Summit Entertainment. He is also a Creative Director on an MMO game being developed by Sony Online Entertainment based on the comic series, Ramayan 3392 A.D and a creator of Ani-Max and First Family, two television shows in development with FremantleMedia Enterprises.
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Shekhar Kapur
Shekhar Kapur (born 6 December 1945) is an Indian film director and producer. A critically acclaimed director, he rose to popularity with the movie Bandit Queen. His historical biopics of Queen Elizabeth I (Elizabeth and its sequel Elizabeth: The Golden Age) garnered 7 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Cate Blanchett.
Kapur was born in India to Kulbhushan Kapur, a doctor who had a flourishing practice, and Sheel Kanta, a journalist and stage actress. The nephew of actors Vijay Anand and Dev Anand, he was discouraged to get into show business by his father. His schooling was at Modern School, New Delhi. He studied economics at St. Stephen's College. At 22, Kapur became a chartered accountant, having studied accountancy at the behest of his parents.[citation needed]
Kapur started his career working with a multinational oil company. He moved to Great Britain in 1970, and spent several years working as an accountant and management consultant.
He started his career as an actor in the movie Jaan Hazir Hai (1975) and later in Toote Khilone, in Bollywood. He also appeared in several Hindi TV serials, like Udaan opposite Kavita Chaudhary, and films, but failed to flourish as an actor.
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Stephen Colbert
Stephen Tyrone Colbert ( /koʊlˈbɛər/ or /ˈkoʊlbərt/; born May 13, 1964) is an American political satirist, writer, comedian, television host, and actor. He is the host of Comedy Central's The Colbert Report, a satirical news show in which Colbert portrays a caricatured version of conservative political pundits.
Colbert originally studied to be an actor, but became interested in improvisational theatre when he met famed Second City director Del Close while attending Northwestern University. He first performed professionally as an understudy for Steve Carell at Second City Chicago; among his troupe mates were comedians Paul Dinello and Amy Sedaris, with whom he developed the critically acclaimed sketch comedy series Exit 57.
Colbert also wrote and performed on the short-lived Dana Carvey Show before collaborating with Sedaris and Dinello again on the cult television series Strangers with Candy. He gained considerable attention for his role on the latter as closeted gay history teacher Chuck Noblet. It was his work as a correspondent on Comedy Central's news-parody series The Daily Show, however, that first introduced him to a wide audience.
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Steve Fossett
James Stephen "Steve" Fossett (April 22, 1944 – c. September 3, 2007) was an American businessman, and a record-setting aviator, sailor, and adventurer. He was the first person to fly solo nonstop around the world in a balloon. He made his fortune in the financial services industry, and was best known for many world records, including five nonstop circumnavigations of the Earth: as a long-distance solo balloonist, as a sailor, and as a solo flight fixed-wing aircraft pilot.
A fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and the Explorers Club, Fossett set 116 records in five different sports, 60 of which still stood when he disappeared.
On September 3, 2007, Fossett was reported missing after the plane he was flying over the Nevada desert failed to return. Despite a month of searches by the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) and others, Fossett could not be found, and the search by CAP was called off on October 2, 2007. Privately funded and privately directed search efforts continued, but after a request from Fossett's wife, he was declared legally dead on February 15, 2008.
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Stowe School
Coordinates: 52°01′57″N 1°01′08″W / 52.0326°N 1.0190°W / 52.0326; -1.0190
Stowe School is an independent school in Stowe, Buckinghamshire. It was founded on 11 May 1923 by J.F. Roxburgh, initially with 99 male pupils. It is a member of the Rugby Group and Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference. The school is also a member of the G20 Schools Group. The headmaster, Dr Anthony Wallersteiner, was recognised as Tatler's Headmaster of the Year in 2007; the school was also shortlisted for the School of the Year award in 2009. The school is currently becoming fully co-educational. As of 2011[update], there are 550 boys and 220 girls.
The school has been based since its beginnings at Stowe House, formerly the country seat of the Dukes of Buckingham and Chandos. Along with many of the other buildings on the school's estate, the main house is now a Grade 1 Listed Building and is maintained by the Stowe House Preservation Trust.
The school is used as a first class cricket ground by Northamptonshire CCC, and is the home ground of the Northants Second XI.
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Terry Pratchett
Sir Terence David John "Terry" Pratchett, OBE (born 28 April 1948) is an English novelist, known for his frequently comical work in the fantasy genre. He is best known for his popular and long-running Discworld series of comic fantasy novels. Pratchett's first novel, The Carpet People, was published in 1971, and since his first Discworld novel (The Colour of Magic) was published in 1983, he has written two books a year on average. His latest Discworld book, Snuff is the third-fastest-selling novel since records began in the United Kingdom selling 55,000 copies in the first three days.
Pratchett was the UK's best-selling author of the 1990s, and has sold over 70 million books worldwide in thirty-seven languages. He is currently the second most-read writer in the UK, and seventh most-read non-US author in the US.
Pratchett was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1998 and was knighted "for services to literature" in 2009. In addition, he was knighted in the 2009 New Year Honours. In 2001 he won the Carnegie Medal for his children's novel The Amazing Maurice and his Educated Rodents.
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Tim Flannery
Timothy Fridtjof Flannery (born 28 January 1956) is an Australian mammalogist, palaeontologist, environmentalist and global warming activist. He is the Chief Commissioner of the Australian Climate Commission, an independent body providing information on climate change to the Australian public.
Flannery was named Australian of the Year in 2007 and is currently a professor at Macquarie University. He is also the chairman of the Copenhagen Climate Council, an international climate change awareness group. His sometimes controversial views on shutting down conventional coal fired power stations for electricity generation in the medium term are frequently cited in the media.
Flannery was raised in a Catholic family in the Melbourne suburb of Sandringham, close to Port Philip Bay, where he learned to fish and scuba dive and became aware of marine pollution and its effects on living organisms. He completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in English at La Trobe University in 1977, and then took a change of direction to complete a Master of Science degree in Earth Science at Monash University in 1981. He then left Melbourne for Sydney, enjoying its subtropical climate and species diversity. In 1984, Flannery earned a doctorate at the University of New South Wales in Palaeontology for his work on the evolution of macropods (kangaroos).
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Tony Blair
Anthony Charles Lynton Blair (born 6 May 1953) is a British Labour Party politician who served as the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom from 2 May 1997 to 27 June 2007. He was the Member of Parliament (MP) for Sedgefield from 1983 to 2007 and Leader of the Labour Party from 1994 to 2007. He resigned from all of these positions in June 2007.
Blair was elected Leader of the Labour Party in the leadership election of July 1994, following the sudden death of his predecessor, John Smith. Under his leadership, the party used the phrases "New Labour" and "New Socialism" to define its policy, and moved away from its support of state socialism since the 1960s and created a new version of the ethical socialism that was last pursued by Clement Attlee. Critics of Blair claim that "New Labour" did not adhere to socialism as claimed, and that it effectively advocated capitalism. Blair subsequently led Labour to a landslide victory in the 1997 general election. At 43 years old, he became the youngest Prime Minister since Lord Liverpool in 1812. In the first years of the New Labour government, Blair's government implemented a number of 1997 manifesto pledges, introducing the minimum wage, Human Rights Act and Freedom of Information Act, and carrying out devolution, establishing the Scottish Parliament, the National Assembly for Wales, and the Northern Ireland Assembly.
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Tony Fernandes
Tan Sri Anthony Francis Fernandes CBE (born 30 April 1964; also known as Tony Fernandes) is a Malaysian entrepreneur and the founder of Tune Air Sdn. Bhd., who introduced the first budget no-frills airline, AirAsia, to Malaysians with the tagline "Now everyone can fly". He has since founded the Tune Group of companies.
He rose to prominence by turning AirAsia, a failing government-linked commercial airline, into a highly successful budget airline public-listed company. Fernandes was also instrumental in lobbying the then-Malaysian Prime Minister, Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad in mid-2003, to propose the idea of open skies agreements with neighbouring Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore. As a result, these nations have granted landing rights to AirAsia and other discount carriers.
Born in Kuala Lumpur to a Goan father, and Kristang mother, Ena Dorothy Fernandes. At a young age, Tony used to follow his mother, a businesswoman, to Tupperware dealer parties and conventions. He was educated at Epsom College 1977-83 and then graduated from the London School of Economics in 1987. He worked very briefly with Virgin Atlantic as an auditor, subsequently becoming the financial controller for Richard Branson's Virgin Records in London from 1987 to 1989.
wn.com/Tony_Fernandes -
Vince Cable
John Vincent "Vince" Cable (born 9 May 1943) is a British Liberal Democrat politician and economist who is currently the Business Secretary in the coalition cabinet of David Cameron. He has been Member of Parliament for Twickenham since 1997.
Cable studied economics at university and became an economic advisor to the Kenyan government in 1966. He was an advisor to the British government and to the Commonwealth Secretary-General in the 1970s and 1980s. Later, he served as Chief Economist for the oil company Shell from 1995 to 1997. In 1970s, Cable was active in the Labour Party and became a Glasgow councillor. However in 1982, he joined the Social Democratic Party which would later join the Liberal Party to form the Liberal Democrats, and he unsuccessfully contested seats in the elections of 1983 (York), 1987 (York) and 1992 (Twickenham) until being elected as the MP for the London constituency of Twickenham in the 1997 general election.
Cable was the Liberal Democrats' senior economic spokesperson from 2003 to May 2010. He was elected Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats in the House of Commons in March 2006, and following Sir Menzies Campbell's resignation, he was Acting Leader for two months—from October 2007 until the election of Nick Clegg. He resigned from his position as Deputy Leader in May 2010.
wn.com/Vince_Cable -
Wikipedia Persondata
wn.com/Wikipedia_Persondata -
William Shatner
William Alan Shatner (born March 22, 1931) is a Canadian actor, musician, recording artist, author and film director. He gained worldwide fame and became a cultural icon for his portrayal of James T. Kirk, captain of the USS Enterprise, in the science fiction television series Star Trek from 1966 to 1969, Star Trek: The Animated Series from 1973 to 1974, and in seven of the subsequent Star Trek feature films from 1979 to 1994. He has written a series of books chronicling his experiences playing Captain Kirk and being a part of Star Trek, and has co-written several novels set in the Star Trek universe. He has also authored a series of science fiction novels called TekWar that were adapted for television.
Shatner also played the eponymous veteran police sergeant in T. J. Hooker from 1982 to 1986. Afterwards, he hosted the reality-based television series, Rescue 911 from 1989 to 1996, which won a People's Choice Award for Favorite New TV Dramatic Series. He has since worked as a musician, author, producer, director and celebrity pitchman. From 2004 to 2008 he starred as attorney Denny Crane in the television dramas The Practice and its spin-off Boston Legal for which he won two Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe Award.
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Branson, Richard Filmography
- Theo (2013)
- The D Word: Understanding Dyslexia (2012)
- The Big Picture: Rethinking Dyslexia (2012)
- The Secret Policeman's Ball (2012)
- Hot Spots 2012 (2012)
- Disconnect: Cell Phones & Cancer (2012)
- Between Two Ferns: A Fairytale of New York (2012)
- Equation of Change (2010)
- A Man's Story (2010)
- Stand Up to Cancer (2010)
- Jambo Jumbo (2010)
- Truth in Numbers? Everything, According to Wikipedia (2010)
- Carbon Nation (2010)
- Equation of Change (2010)
- Jambo Jumbo (2010)
- Dan Dare: Pilot of the Future (2009)
- We Are the People We've Been Waiting For (2009)
- Kyocera's All Access @ Virgin Mobile Freefest (2009)
- Oh So Cosmo (2008)
- ETalk Festival Party (2008)
- Fields of Fuel (2008)
- Fuel (2008)
- Bransons: Come Hell or High Water (2008)
- Virgin Rides America (2008)
- Caia Quem Caia (2008)
- Business 2025 (2007)
- We Love 'The Sky at Night' (2007)
- Should I Really Give Up Flying? (2007)
- Casino Royale (2006)
- Bryan's Journals (2006)
- CNN Future Summit: World in Motion (2006)
- Rabbit Fever (2006)
- Requiem for Krypton: Making 'Superman Returns' (2006)
- Superman Returns (2006)
- American Princess (2005)
- Trista and Ryan's Honeymoon Hotspots - USA (2005)
- Around the World in 80 Days (2004)
- Lemonade Stories (2004)
- Black Sky: Winning the X Prize (2004)
- One Shot (2003)
- Extreme (2003)
- There's Only One Paul McCartney (2002)
- 2001 World Awards (2001)
- Goodness Gracious Me: Back Where They Came from (2001)
- The Great Balloon Race (1999)
- Diana: The Mourning After (1998)
- Diana: The Nation's Farewell (1997)
- Election 97 (1997)
- Ruby Wax Meets... (1996)
- Anyone for Pennis? (1995)
- Royal Variety Performance 1995 (1995)
- Whicker's Miss World (1993)
- Root Into Europe (1992)
- Condom (1990)
- Queen: Magic Years, Volume Two - A Visual Anthology (1987)
- Royal Variety Performance 1987 (1987)
- Electric Dreams (1984)
- XTC at the Manor (1980)
- The Space Movie (1980)
- Derek and Clive Get the Horn (1979)
- Acids of Virgin Music (1976)
Famous quotes by Richard Branson:
"I think the most important thing is that in the last seven days we've just had the greatest adventure of our lifetimes."
"Like getting into a bleeding competition with a blood bank."
"I wanted to be an editor or a journalist, I wasn't really interested in being an entrepreneur, but I soon found I had to become an entrepreneur in order to keep my magazine going."
"What's the quickest way to become a millionaire? Borrow fivers off everyone you meet."
"I never get the accountants in before I start up a business. It's done on gut feeling, especially if I can see that they are taking the mickey out of the consumer."
"With the casino and the beds, our passengers will have at least two ways to get lucky on one of our flights."
"I believe in benevolent dictatorship provided I am the dictator"
"We've got an engaging, edgy, vibrant, fun product, ... It may or may not work, but we're going to give it our best shot."
"A business has to be involving, it has to be fun, and it has to exercise your creative instincts."
"Business opportunities are like buses, there's always another one coming."
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Richard Branson, 'Losing my Virginity: extraordinary lessons from the founder of the Virgin Group'
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 8:09
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
Sir Richard Branson needs little introduction. He's a hero to most entrepreneurs, and any businessperson worth their salt knows his life story: school-leaver at 15, major record-seller at 20, convicted VAT-fraudster at 21, millionaire at 23. This was the man who, as a music label novice, signed both the Sex Pistols and the Rolling Stones; who defeated British Airways in court after eroding their transatlantic routes with his upstart airline; and who ultimately diversified into every consumer industry imaginable. His business principles are equally well-known: high-quality service; derring-do; a sense of fun; and an emphasis on making employees feel rewarded. So why bother to hear him speak in person? The answer is simple: for the opportunity to see a big beast of business in the flesh, to divine the secrets of his success by staring into the whites of his eyes. This was Branson's first major public appearance in years, and over a thousand members of the London Business Forum (LBF) poured into Westminster Central Hall to pay tribute... www.londonbusinessforum.com
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson,_'Losing_my_Virginity_extraordinary_lessons_from_the_founder_of_the_Virgin_Group'
Sir Richard Branson needs little introduction. He's a hero to most entrepreneurs, and any businessperson worth their salt knows his life story: school-leaver at 15, major record-seller at 20, convicted VAT-fraudster at 21, millionaire at 23. This was the man who, as a music label novice, signed both the Sex Pistols and the Rolling Stones; who defeated British Airways in court after eroding their transatlantic routes with his upstart airline; and who ultimately diversified into every consumer industry imaginable. His business principles are equally well-known: high-quality service; derring-do; a sense of fun; and an emphasis on making employees feel rewarded. So why bother to hear him speak in person? The answer is simple: for the opportunity to see a big beast of business in the flesh, to divine the secrets of his success by staring into the whites of his eyes. This was Branson's first major public appearance in years, and over a thousand members of the London Business Forum (LBF) poured into Westminster Central Hall to pay tribute... www.londonbusinessforum.com
Richard Branson on BBC Breakfast news "Screw Business as Usual"
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 7:37
- Updated: 22 Dec 2012
Listen to how Richard Branson & Virgin Unite, CEO Jean Oelwang are screwing business as usual on BBC Breakfast.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_on_BBC_Breakfast_news_Screw_Business_as_Usual
Listen to how Richard Branson & Virgin Unite, CEO Jean Oelwang are screwing business as usual on BBC Breakfast.
- published: 17 Nov 2011
- views: 5714
- author: virginunite
WAR ON DRUGS HAS FAILED! Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 9:10
- Updated: 11 Jan 2013
December 06, 2012 CNN MOXNews.com
http://wn.com/WAR_ON_DRUGS_HAS_FAILED!_Richard_Branson
Richard Branson's Big Idea for 2013, Presented by LinkedIn
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 2:23
- Updated: 27 Dec 2012
www.linkedin.com It won't be long before we kiss 2012 goodbye, so LinkedIn is asking its most prominent Thought Leaders about their Big Idea for 2013. Business mogul Sir Richard Branson sits down with us to explain his Big Idea and how he thinks it will change the world.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson's_Big_Idea_for_2013,_Presented_by_LinkedIn
www.linkedin.com It won't be long before we kiss 2012 goodbye, so LinkedIn is asking its most prominent Thought Leaders about their Big Idea for 2013. Business mogul Sir Richard Branson sits down with us to explain his Big Idea and how he thinks it will change the world.
- published: 11 Dec 2012
- views: 53758
- author: LinkedIn
Richard Branson: The Ocean Explorer
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:41
- Updated: 07 Dec 2012
Oct. 16 (Bloomberg) -- Richard Branson, Virgin Group CEO and founder, takes Trish Regan and Bloomberg Pursuits on an ocean adventure in search of hump back whales and explains his newest venture Virgin Oceanic. Branson speaks as part "Bloomberg Pursuits" on Bloomberg Television.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_The_Ocean_Explorer
Oct. 16 (Bloomberg) -- Richard Branson, Virgin Group CEO and founder, takes Trish Regan and Bloomberg Pursuits on an ocean adventure in search of hump back whales and explains his newest venture Virgin Oceanic. Branson speaks as part "Bloomberg Pursuits" on Bloomberg Television.
- published: 16 Oct 2012
- views: 1653
- author: Bloomberg
1. Richard Branson's Advice for Entrepreneurs
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:04
- Updated: 02 Dec 2012
http://wn.com/1_Richard_Branson's_Advice_for_Entrepreneurs
NIKE: #KOBESYSTEM - LEVEL 7 SUCCESS AT SUCCESS
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 1:03
- Updated: 13 Jan 2013
Where do you go once you've reached the top of the #KobeSystem? Kobe helps Richard Branson find out.
http://wn.com/NIKE_KOBESYSTEM_LEVEL_7_SUCCESS_AT_SUCCESS
Where do you go once you've reached the top of the #KobeSystem? Kobe helps Richard Branson find out.
- published: 20 Jan 2012
- views: 1285439
- author: nikebasketball
Displaying too much wealth is dangerous: Richard Branson to NDTV
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 5:48
- Updated: 03 Jan 2013
Virgin Atlantic founder and chairman Richard Branson speaks exclusively to NDTV's Shweta Rajpal Kohli on being a flamboyant entrepreneur, his success story in aviation and the crisis plaguing Vijay Mallya's Kingfisher Airlines. Watch full show: profit.ndtv.com
http://wn.com/Displaying_too_much_wealth_is_dangerous_Richard_Branson_to_NDTV
Virgin Atlantic founder and chairman Richard Branson speaks exclusively to NDTV's Shweta Rajpal Kohli on being a flamboyant entrepreneur, his success story in aviation and the crisis plaguing Vijay Mallya's Kingfisher Airlines. Watch full show: profit.ndtv.com
- published: 27 Oct 2012
- views: 2836
- author: ndtv
One on one with Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 6:33
- Updated: 14 Dec 2012
CNN's Suzanne Malveaux talks with billionaire businessman Richard Branson about US politics, drugs and going green. For more CNN videos on YouTube, check out www.youtube.com Or visit our site at www.cnn.com
http://wn.com/One_on_one_with_Richard_Branson
CNN's Suzanne Malveaux talks with billionaire businessman Richard Branson about US politics, drugs and going green. For more CNN videos on YouTube, check out www.youtube.com Or visit our site at www.cnn.com
- published: 12 Dec 2012
- views: 377
- author: CNN
Richard Branson's Hangout on Necker Island
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 43:30
- Updated: 06 Jan 2013
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson's_Hangout_on_Necker_Island
Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2012 Keynote Speaker Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 34:39
- Updated: 06 Dec 2012
Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2012 Keynote Speaker Richard Branson
http://wn.com/Global_Entrepreneurship_Congress_2012_Keynote_Speaker_Richard_Branson
Global Entrepreneurship Congress 2012 Keynote Speaker Richard Branson
- published: 10 Jul 2012
- views: 1606
- author: Unleashingideas
Sir Richard Branson Live Chat on What's Trending
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 10:39
- Updated: 20 Dec 2012
He's dedicated to serving...each and every one of you. The iconic entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin brand, Sir Richard Branson joins What's Trending for an unprecedented live chat from the tarmac of the inaugural Virgin America Philadelphia flight. Shira Lazar asks audience questions to Sir Richard about the future, being an entrepreneur, music, and much more! For more go to: whatstrending.com Subscribe! http Read our blog to discover more trends! whatstrending.com Follow us on Twitter for real-time updates! www.twitter.com Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com Add us to your circles on Google+! plus.google.com Download our mobile app to keep in the know everywhere you go! www.mobileroadie.com
http://wn.com/Sir_Richard_Branson_Live_Chat_on_What's_Trending
He's dedicated to serving...each and every one of you. The iconic entrepreneur and founder of the Virgin brand, Sir Richard Branson joins What's Trending for an unprecedented live chat from the tarmac of the inaugural Virgin America Philadelphia flight. Shira Lazar asks audience questions to Sir Richard about the future, being an entrepreneur, music, and much more! For more go to: whatstrending.com Subscribe! http Read our blog to discover more trends! whatstrending.com Follow us on Twitter for real-time updates! www.twitter.com Like us on Facebook! www.facebook.com Add us to your circles on Google+! plus.google.com Download our mobile app to keep in the know everywhere you go! www.mobileroadie.com
- published: 05 Apr 2012
- views: 5587
- author: Whatstrending
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Eye To Eye: Richard Branson (CBS News)
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 7:09
- Updated: 10 Jan 2013
British entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson talks with Harry Smith about his journey from dyslexic high school dropout to one of the world's richest men. (CBSNews.com)
http://wn.com/Eye_To_Eye_Richard_Branson_CBS_News
British entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson talks with Harry Smith about his journey from dyslexic high school dropout to one of the world's richest men. (CBSNews.com)
- published: 31 Jul 2007
- views: 178047
- author: CBS
Richard Branson Necker Island Interview
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 40:41
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
Virgin Unite is the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. They unite people to tackle tough social and environmental problems in entrepreneurial ways. As the overheads of Virgin Unite are covered by Richard and the Virgin Group 100% of additional donations go to the front line where they are needed the most, for example, to support young entrepreneurs in South Africa, or homeless teenagers all over the world, or to stop young girls from suffering with fistula. I support Virgin Unite, please get on board and do the same at virginunite.com. Still need to be inspired? You can join Virgin Unite and Richard for their incredible leadership gatherings around the world.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_Necker_Island_Interview
Virgin Unite is the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. They unite people to tackle tough social and environmental problems in entrepreneurial ways. As the overheads of Virgin Unite are covered by Richard and the Virgin Group 100% of additional donations go to the front line where they are needed the most, for example, to support young entrepreneurs in South Africa, or homeless teenagers all over the world, or to stop young girls from suffering with fistula. I support Virgin Unite, please get on board and do the same at virginunite.com. Still need to be inspired? You can join Virgin Unite and Richard for their incredible leadership gatherings around the world.
- published: 15 Jun 2011
- views: 103436
- author: PiranhaMarketing1
Richard Branson interview 1998
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 9:33
- Updated: 09 Jan 2013
August 27, 1998
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_interview_1998
Richard Branson: Life at 30000 feet
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 30:03
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
www.ted.com Richard Branson talks to TED's Chris Anderson about the ups and the downs of his career, from his multibillionaire success to his multiple near-death experiences -- and reveals some of his (very surprising) motivations.TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers are invited to give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes -- including speakers such as Jill Bolte Taylor, Sir Ken Robinson, Hans Rosling, Al Gore and Arthur Benjamin. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, and TEDTalks cover these topics as well as science, business, politics and the arts. Watch the Top 10 TEDTalks on TED.com, at http
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_Life_at_30000_feet
www.ted.com Richard Branson talks to TED's Chris Anderson about the ups and the downs of his career, from his multibillionaire success to his multiple near-death experiences -- and reveals some of his (very surprising) motivations.TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers are invited to give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes -- including speakers such as Jill Bolte Taylor, Sir Ken Robinson, Hans Rosling, Al Gore and Arthur Benjamin. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, and TEDTalks cover these topics as well as science, business, politics and the arts. Watch the Top 10 TEDTalks on TED.com, at http
- published: 13 Oct 2007
- views: 164423
- author: TEDtalksDirector
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 1 of 4
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 15:01
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
http://wn.com/Sir_Richard_Branson_Full_Video_Interview_2011_Part_1_of_4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
- published: 16 Aug 2011
- views: 29140
- author: AdamRossGibson
Richard Branson Explains His Secrets to Success - LinkedIn Exclusive
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:18
- Updated: 07 Jan 2013
Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group and thrill-seeking businessman, became the first LinkedIn Influencer to amass 1 million followers. To celebrate this accomplishment, Sir Richard sat down with LinkedIn's Executive Editor, Daniel Roth, to answer questions from members about the secrets to success.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_Explains_His_Secrets_to_Success_LinkedIn_Exclusive
Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group and thrill-seeking businessman, became the first LinkedIn Influencer to amass 1 million followers. To celebrate this accomplishment, Sir Richard sat down with LinkedIn's Executive Editor, Daniel Roth, to answer questions from members about the secrets to success.
- published: 07 Jan 2013
- views: 12471
- author: LinkedIn
Fireside Conversation: Sir Richard Branson & Marc Benioff
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 62:39
- Updated: 13 Jan 2013
Marc Benioff and Sir Richard Branson share many traits: they are both entrepreneurs, both are dedicated to philanthropy, and both transformed industries with radical new thinking. These two leaders have a frank and unscripted conversation during Dreamforce '12.
http://wn.com/Fireside_Conversation_Sir_Richard_Branson_Marc_Benioff
Marc Benioff and Sir Richard Branson share many traits: they are both entrepreneurs, both are dedicated to philanthropy, and both transformed industries with radical new thinking. These two leaders have a frank and unscripted conversation during Dreamforce '12.
- published: 20 Sep 2012
- views: 30546
- author: salesforce
TIME Interviews Sir Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 6:38
- Updated: 12 Jan 2013
READ MORE: tinyurl.com In addition to the daredevil feats that have earned him the title "rebel billionaire," he has founded over 360 companies under Virgin. Sir Richard Branson talks to TIME in this edition of 10 Questions. For more video: www.time.com
http://wn.com/TIME_Interviews_Sir_Richard_Branson
READ MORE: tinyurl.com In addition to the daredevil feats that have earned him the title "rebel billionaire," he has founded over 360 companies under Virgin. Sir Richard Branson talks to TIME in this edition of 10 Questions. For more video: www.time.com
- published: 15 May 2008
- views: 81544
- author: TimeMagazine
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project (Australia) 2011
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 5:08
- Updated: 18 Oct 2012
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project. Full episode: 7pmProject.com.au | http Broadcast date: 5 May, 2011. No copyright infringement intended. All rights reserved to their rightful owners. Produced by Roving Enterprises (Australia). Keywords: Island, Virgin Blue, Virgin Australia, QANTAS, CEO, Prince William & Catherine "Kate" Middleton wedding, Pippa Middleton. Uploaded by Rove McManus site - twitter.com | RoveOnline.com (unofficial). Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (born 18 July 1950) is a British entrepreneur, best known for his Virgin Group of over 400 companies. His first successful business venture was a magazine called Student at age 16. In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s—as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label. Richard Branson is the 5th richest person in the United Kingdom and 254th in the world according to Forbes' 2011 list of billionaires, with an estimated net worth of approximately £2.58 billion (US$4.2 billion).
http://wn.com/Sir_Richard_Branson_interview_on_The_7pm_Project_Australia_2011
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project. Full episode: 7pmProject.com.au | http Broadcast date: 5 May, 2011. No copyright infringement intended. All rights reserved to their rightful owners. Produced by Roving Enterprises (Australia). Keywords: Island, Virgin Blue, Virgin Australia, QANTAS, CEO, Prince William & Catherine "Kate" Middleton wedding, Pippa Middleton. Uploaded by Rove McManus site - twitter.com | RoveOnline.com (unofficial). Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (born 18 July 1950) is a British entrepreneur, best known for his Virgin Group of over 400 companies. His first successful business venture was a magazine called Student at age 16. In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s—as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label. Richard Branson is the 5th richest person in the United Kingdom and 254th in the world according to Forbes' 2011 list of billionaires, with an estimated net worth of approximately £2.58 billion (US$4.2 billion).
- published: 05 May 2011
- views: 5975
- author: RoveOnlineClips
God Save The Queen - The Sex Pistols interview
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 8:19
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
The first time I saw The Sex Pistols was in a tiny little cabin in London. It was packed and they were just electrifying onstage. I Hadn't been as excited about seeing a band for a long time, and was determined to try to sign them. Here's the story behind The Sex Pistols and Virgin Records. This video shows everything from how we signed the most notorious punk band in the world to how the police raided our boat as we cruised down the Thames on the Silver Jubilee.
http://wn.com/God_Save_The_Queen_The_Sex_Pistols_interview
The first time I saw The Sex Pistols was in a tiny little cabin in London. It was packed and they were just electrifying onstage. I Hadn't been as excited about seeing a band for a long time, and was determined to try to sign them. Here's the story behind The Sex Pistols and Virgin Records. This video shows everything from how we signed the most notorious punk band in the world to how the police raided our boat as we cruised down the Thames on the Silver Jubilee.
- published: 27 Sep 2012
- views: 8198
- author: richardbranson
![SB.TV Interviews - Richard Branson [S3.EP17]](http://web.archive.org./web/20130115055856im_/http://i.ytimg.com/vi/MBdkCWXojbk/default.jpg "SB.TV Interviews - Richard Branson [S3.EP17]")
SB.TV Interviews - Richard Branson [S3.EP17]
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:18
- Updated: 08 Jan 2013
We caught up with Richard Branson at his house to have a chat. @vmpioneers
http://wn.com/SBTV_Interviews_Richard_Branson_S3EP17_
We caught up with Richard Branson at his house to have a chat. @vmpioneers
- published: 13 Jun 2012
- views: 22438
- author: smokeybarz
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 2 of 4
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 15:00
- Updated: 13 Jan 2013
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
http://wn.com/Sir_Richard_Branson_Full_Video_Interview_2011_Part_2_of_4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
- published: 16 Aug 2011
- views: 8547
- author: AdamRossGibson
Richard Branson on his multi-million dollar Virgin empire
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 23:18
- Updated: 06 Jan 2013
British entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin empire, talks about how he carved his unique path to success. (Original broadcast April 2001)
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_on_his_multi-million_dollar_Virgin_empire
British entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin empire, talks about how he carved his unique path to success. (Original broadcast April 2001)
- published: 27 Apr 2011
- views: 26162
- author: AllanGregg
A day in the life
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:37
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
Want to see what a day in my life is like? View this video to join me for a busy day in London. Watch as we go from filming adverts to doing to Mobot, meeting our staff to turning on Christmas lights, agreeing Virgin Trains' franchise extension to premiering Breaking The Taboo.
http://wn.com/A_day_in_the_life
Want to see what a day in my life is like? View this video to join me for a busy day in London. Watch as we go from filming adverts to doing to Mobot, meeting our staff to turning on Christmas lights, agreeing Virgin Trains' franchise extension to premiering Breaking The Taboo.
- published: 12 Dec 2012
- views: 50693
- author: richardbranson
Richard Branson - Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award Winner
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 6:03
- Updated: 24 Jun 2012
Sir Richard Branson receives a 2008 Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award from The International Business Awards. Presented and interviewed by Tanya Beckett of the BBC.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_Lifetime_Achievement_Stevie_Award_Winner
Sir Richard Branson receives a 2008 Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award from The International Business Awards. Presented and interviewed by Tanya Beckett of the BBC.
- published: 28 Aug 2008
- views: 13149
- author: TheStevies
FRANCE 24 The Interview - Interview with Richard Branson Virgin Group founder
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 13:03
- Updated: 31 Dec 2012
THE BUSINESS INTERVIEW: World's most famous businessman and as well adventurer Richard Branson interviewed by Rapha�l Kahane.
http://wn.com/FRANCE_24_The_Interview_Interview_with_Richard_Branson_Virgin_Group_founder
THE BUSINESS INTERVIEW: World's most famous businessman and as well adventurer Richard Branson interviewed by Rapha�l Kahane.
- published: 10 Dec 2008
- views: 12703
- author: france24english
Richard Branson's spaceship
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:50
- Updated: 19 Dec 2012
CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports on British billionaire tycoon Richard Branson's next big venture: space tourism.
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson's_spaceship
CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports on British billionaire tycoon Richard Branson's next big venture: space tourism.
- published: 07 Jul 2011
- views: 4997
- author: CBS
Richard Branson: Advice for Entrepreneurs
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 4:04
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
bigthink.com Since Branson founded Virgin in 1970, the company has grown from a small record outlet to a global powerhouse. Can the brand continue its success without him?
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson_Advice_for_Entrepreneurs
bigthink.com Since Branson founded Virgin in 1970, the company has grown from a small record outlet to a global powerhouse. Can the brand continue its success without him?
- published: 02 Jun 2011
- views: 312469
- author: bigthink
Interview with Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 15:20
- Updated: 07 Jan 2013
An Obvious Truth - www.AnObviousTruth.com The Path to Being a Millionaire --- the most comprehensive package on how to succeed online ever produced
http://wn.com/Interview_with_Richard_Branson
An Obvious Truth - www.AnObviousTruth.com The Path to Being a Millionaire --- the most comprehensive package on how to succeed online ever produced
- published: 30 Jun 2011
- views: 13920
- author: infobulb
Virgin Galactic promotional trailer starring Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 9:06
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
Introduction by Richard Branson, interviews with Brian Binnie and Mike Melvill, with video footage from the SpaceShipOne test flights. For more information, please visit www.virgingalactic.com . The "Virgin" and "Virgin Galactic" names and logos are trademarks of Virgin Enterprises Ltd and are used under licence. (C) Virgin Galactic 2006. All rights reserved. All intellectual property rights subsisting in the content of this video are owned or used under licence by Virgin Galactic. This video is for personal use/private viewing only. Any alteration, modification, redistribution, reproduction, exploitation, broadcasting, transmission or storage (whether electronically or otherwise) or part or all of the contents of this video in any form is strictly prohibited.
http://wn.com/Virgin_Galactic_promotional_trailer_starring_Richard_Branson
Introduction by Richard Branson, interviews with Brian Binnie and Mike Melvill, with video footage from the SpaceShipOne test flights. For more information, please visit www.virgingalactic.com . The "Virgin" and "Virgin Galactic" names and logos are trademarks of Virgin Enterprises Ltd and are used under licence. (C) Virgin Galactic 2006. All rights reserved. All intellectual property rights subsisting in the content of this video are owned or used under licence by Virgin Galactic. This video is for personal use/private viewing only. Any alteration, modification, redistribution, reproduction, exploitation, broadcasting, transmission or storage (whether electronically or otherwise) or part or all of the contents of this video in any form is strictly prohibited.
- published: 29 Sep 2006
- views: 197059
- author: DougInBoulder
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 3 of 4
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 15:00
- Updated: 13 Jan 2013
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
http://wn.com/Sir_Richard_Branson_Full_Video_Interview_2011_Part_3_of_4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
- published: 16 Aug 2011
- views: 8592
- author: AdamRossGibson
Business Secrets: Richard Branson
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 26:54
- Updated: 14 Jan 2013
Interview with Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin, to Oleg Tinkov and Oleg Anisimov from first Russian online bank Tinkoff Credit Systems: www.tcsbank.ru In English with Russian subtitles. Ричард Брэнсон, Олег Тиньков, Олег Анисимов
http://wn.com/Business_Secrets_Richard_Branson
Interview with Richard Branson, the founder of Virgin, to Oleg Tinkov and Oleg Anisimov from first Russian online bank Tinkoff Credit Systems: www.tcsbank.ru In English with Russian subtitles. Ричард Брэнсон, Олег Тиньков, Олег Анисимов
- published: 11 Mar 2011
- views: 151893
- author: BiZSekrety
Tony Robbins Interviews Richard Branson on Leadership, President Obama
- Order: Reorder
- Duration: 2:13
- Updated: 15 Jan 2013
Watch as Tony Robbins interviews Richard Branson on the subject of leadership, and whether President Obama should be re-elected
http://wn.com/Tony_Robbins_Interviews_Richard_Branson_on_Leadership,_President_Obama
Watch as Tony Robbins interviews Richard Branson on the subject of leadership, and whether President Obama should be re-elected
- published: 19 Oct 2012
- views: 7256
- author: Tony Robbins
7:09
Eye To Eye: Richard Branson (CBS News)
British entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson talks with Harry Smith about his journey from dys...
published: 31 Jul 2007
author: CBS
Eye To Eye: Richard Branson (CBS News)
British entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson talks with Harry Smith about his journey from dyslexic high school dropout to one of the world's richest men. (CBSNews.com)
- published: 31 Jul 2007
- views: 178047
- author: CBS
40:41
Richard Branson Necker Island Interview
Virgin Unite is the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. They unite people to tackle...
published: 15 Jun 2011
author: PiranhaMarketing1
Richard Branson Necker Island Interview
Virgin Unite is the non-profit foundation of the Virgin Group. They unite people to tackle tough social and environmental problems in entrepreneurial ways. As the overheads of Virgin Unite are covered by Richard and the Virgin Group 100% of additional donations go to the front line where they are needed the most, for example, to support young entrepreneurs in South Africa, or homeless teenagers all over the world, or to stop young girls from suffering with fistula. I support Virgin Unite, please get on board and do the same at virginunite.com. Still need to be inspired? You can join Virgin Unite and Richard for their incredible leadership gatherings around the world.
- published: 15 Jun 2011
- views: 103436
- author: PiranhaMarketing1
30:03
Richard Branson: Life at 30000 feet
www.ted.com Richard Branson talks to TED's Chris Anderson about the ups and the downs of h...
published: 13 Oct 2007
author: TEDtalksDirector
Richard Branson: Life at 30000 feet
www.ted.com Richard Branson talks to TED's Chris Anderson about the ups and the downs of his career, from his multibillionaire success to his multiple near-death experiences -- and reveals some of his (very surprising) motivations.TEDTalks is a daily video podcast of the best talks and performances from the TED Conference, where the world's leading thinkers and doers are invited to give the talk of their lives in 18 minutes -- including speakers such as Jill Bolte Taylor, Sir Ken Robinson, Hans Rosling, Al Gore and Arthur Benjamin. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design, and TEDTalks cover these topics as well as science, business, politics and the arts. Watch the Top 10 TEDTalks on TED.com, at http
- published: 13 Oct 2007
- views: 164423
- author: TEDtalksDirector
15:01
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 1 of 4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amaz...
published: 16 Aug 2011
author: AdamRossGibson
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 1 of 4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
- published: 16 Aug 2011
- views: 29140
- author: AdamRossGibson
4:18
Richard Branson Explains His Secrets to Success - LinkedIn Exclusive
Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group and thrill-seeking businessman, became the fi...
published: 07 Jan 2013
author: LinkedIn
Richard Branson Explains His Secrets to Success - LinkedIn Exclusive
Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group and thrill-seeking businessman, became the first LinkedIn Influencer to amass 1 million followers. To celebrate this accomplishment, Sir Richard sat down with LinkedIn's Executive Editor, Daniel Roth, to answer questions from members about the secrets to success.
- published: 07 Jan 2013
- views: 12471
- author: LinkedIn
62:39
Fireside Conversation: Sir Richard Branson & Marc Benioff
Marc Benioff and Sir Richard Branson share many traits: they are both entrepreneurs, both ...
published: 20 Sep 2012
author: salesforce
Fireside Conversation: Sir Richard Branson & Marc Benioff
Marc Benioff and Sir Richard Branson share many traits: they are both entrepreneurs, both are dedicated to philanthropy, and both transformed industries with radical new thinking. These two leaders have a frank and unscripted conversation during Dreamforce '12.
- published: 20 Sep 2012
- views: 30546
- author: salesforce
6:38
TIME Interviews Sir Richard Branson
READ MORE: tinyurl.com In addition to the daredevil feats that have earned him the title "...
published: 15 May 2008
author: TimeMagazine
TIME Interviews Sir Richard Branson
READ MORE: tinyurl.com In addition to the daredevil feats that have earned him the title "rebel billionaire," he has founded over 360 companies under Virgin. Sir Richard Branson talks to TIME in this edition of 10 Questions. For more video: www.time.com
- published: 15 May 2008
- views: 81544
- author: TimeMagazine
5:08
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project (Australia) 2011
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project. Full episode: 7pmProject.com.au | http B...
published: 05 May 2011
author: RoveOnlineClips
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project (Australia) 2011
Sir Richard Branson interview on The 7pm Project. Full episode: 7pmProject.com.au | http Broadcast date: 5 May, 2011. No copyright infringement intended. All rights reserved to their rightful owners. Produced by Roving Enterprises (Australia). Keywords: Island, Virgin Blue, Virgin Australia, QANTAS, CEO, Prince William & Catherine "Kate" Middleton wedding, Pippa Middleton. Uploaded by Rove McManus site - twitter.com | RoveOnline.com (unofficial). Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (born 18 July 1950) is a British entrepreneur, best known for his Virgin Group of over 400 companies. His first successful business venture was a magazine called Student at age 16. In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s—as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label. Richard Branson is the 5th richest person in the United Kingdom and 254th in the world according to Forbes' 2011 list of billionaires, with an estimated net worth of approximately £2.58 billion (US$4.2 billion).
- published: 05 May 2011
- views: 5975
- author: RoveOnlineClips
8:19
God Save The Queen - The Sex Pistols interview
The first time I saw The Sex Pistols was in a tiny little cabin in London. It was packed a...
published: 27 Sep 2012
author: richardbranson
God Save The Queen - The Sex Pistols interview
The first time I saw The Sex Pistols was in a tiny little cabin in London. It was packed and they were just electrifying onstage. I Hadn't been as excited about seeing a band for a long time, and was determined to try to sign them. Here's the story behind The Sex Pistols and Virgin Records. This video shows everything from how we signed the most notorious punk band in the world to how the police raided our boat as we cruised down the Thames on the Silver Jubilee.
- published: 27 Sep 2012
- views: 8198
- author: richardbranson
4:18
SB.TV Interviews - Richard Branson [S3.EP17]
We caught up with Richard Branson at his house to have a chat. @vmpioneers...
published: 13 Jun 2012
author: smokeybarz
SB.TV Interviews - Richard Branson [S3.EP17]
We caught up with Richard Branson at his house to have a chat. @vmpioneers
- published: 13 Jun 2012
- views: 22438
- author: smokeybarz
15:00
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 2 of 4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amaz...
published: 16 Aug 2011
author: AdamRossGibson
Sir Richard Branson Full Video Interview 2011 - Part 2 of 4
IF YOU LIKE THIS 4 PART VIDEO YOU WILL LOVE BRANSON'S LESSONS IN LIFE & BUSINESS: www.amazon.co.uk
- published: 16 Aug 2011
- views: 8547
- author: AdamRossGibson
23:18
Richard Branson on his multi-million dollar Virgin empire
British entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin empire, talks about how he car...
published: 27 Apr 2011
author: AllanGregg
Richard Branson on his multi-million dollar Virgin empire
British entrepreneur Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin empire, talks about how he carved his unique path to success. (Original broadcast April 2001)
- published: 27 Apr 2011
- views: 26162
- author: AllanGregg
4:37
A day in the life
Want to see what a day in my life is like? View this video to join me for a busy day in Lo...
published: 12 Dec 2012
author: richardbranson
A day in the life
Want to see what a day in my life is like? View this video to join me for a busy day in London. Watch as we go from filming adverts to doing to Mobot, meeting our staff to turning on Christmas lights, agreeing Virgin Trains' franchise extension to premiering Breaking The Taboo.
- published: 12 Dec 2012
- views: 50693
- author: richardbranson
Vimeo results:
7:27
Youri Zoon RECORDED - EPS 6 - Island Vibes
In the last episode of Youri Zoon RECORDED 2011, Youri sets sail to discover the British V...
published: 21 Jun 2011
author: EyEFORcE
Youri Zoon RECORDED - EPS 6 - Island Vibes
In the last episode of Youri Zoon RECORDED 2011, Youri sets sail to discover the British Virgin Islands. He rips hard at an island called Anegada, and ends up at the closing party of the BVI Kitejam on Richard Branson's private island.
1:42
Good Morning Sir Richard Branson
THIS IS PUR LIFE !!!...
published: 15 Dec 2010
author: Manuel Schwingel
Good Morning Sir Richard Branson
THIS IS PUR LIFE !!!
6:11
Youri Zoon RECORDED - EPS 5 - Jammin'
Being a professional kiteboarder has its advantages. Like
being invited by the BVI Kitejam...
published: 06 Jun 2011
author: EyEFORcE
Youri Zoon RECORDED - EPS 5 - Jammin'
Being a professional kiteboarder has its advantages. Like
being invited by the BVI Kitejam to come kite and have fun in the Caribbean. Youri sets sail to Richard Branson's Necker island to let the good times roll
4:54
Richard Branson - WildAid Whale Sharks - 2011
Richard Branson, Virgin Group CEO, joins a team of WildAid supporters to promote the conse...
published: 01 Aug 2011
author: Blue Sphere Media
Richard Branson - WildAid Whale Sharks - 2011
Richard Branson, Virgin Group CEO, joins a team of WildAid supporters to promote the conservation of the aggregation of several hundred whale sharks off Isla Mujeres, Mexico.
Youtube results:
6:03
Richard Branson - Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award Winner
Sir Richard Branson receives a 2008 Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award from The Internation...
published: 28 Aug 2008
author: TheStevies
Richard Branson - Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award Winner
Sir Richard Branson receives a 2008 Lifetime Achievement Stevie Award from The International Business Awards. Presented and interviewed by Tanya Beckett of the BBC.
- published: 28 Aug 2008
- views: 13149
- author: TheStevies
13:03
FRANCE 24 The Interview - Interview with Richard Branson Virgin Group founder
THE BUSINESS INTERVIEW: World's most famous businessman and as well adventurer Richard Bra...
published: 10 Dec 2008
author: france24english
FRANCE 24 The Interview - Interview with Richard Branson Virgin Group founder
THE BUSINESS INTERVIEW: World's most famous businessman and as well adventurer Richard Branson interviewed by Rapha�l Kahane.
- published: 10 Dec 2008
- views: 12703
- author: france24english
4:50
Richard Branson's spaceship
CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports on British billionaire tycoon Richard Brans...
published: 07 Jul 2011
author: CBS
Richard Branson's spaceship
CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports on British billionaire tycoon Richard Branson's next big venture: space tourism.
- published: 07 Jul 2011
- views: 4997
- author: CBS
4:04
Richard Branson: Advice for Entrepreneurs
bigthink.com Since Branson founded Virgin in 1970, the company has grown from a small reco...
published: 02 Jun 2011
author: bigthink
Richard Branson: Advice for Entrepreneurs
bigthink.com Since Branson founded Virgin in 1970, the company has grown from a small record outlet to a global powerhouse. Can the brand continue its success without him?
- published: 02 Jun 2011
- views: 312469
- author: bigthink
photo: AP / Mohamed Sheikh Nor
12 Jan 2013
Helicopter raid fails to rescue agent 'Denis Allex' from Islamist group al-Shabaab, as French combat pilot killed in Mali. French secret service hostage 'Denis Allex' pictured in Somalia in October 2012. Photograph. SITE Monitoring Service/AFP/Getty Images. A French hostage and two French soldiers have been killed during a failed secret service rescue mission in Somalia ... The group said it had also captured a wounded French commando ... ....(size: 4.7Kb)
photo: AP / Adj Nicolas-Nelson Richard, ECPAD
14 Jan 2013
Bamako/Paris - French fighter jets pounded Islamist rebel strongholds deep in northern Mali on Sunday as Paris poured more troops into the capital, Bamako, awaiting a West African force to dislodge al-Qaeda-linked insurgents from the country’s north ... Defence Minister Jean-Yves le Drian said France’s intervention on Friday prevented the advancing rebels from seizing Bamako and vowed air strikes would continue ... – ... Doubt....(size: 6.6Kb)
photo: US Navy / MCS2 Gretchen Albrecht
13 Jan 2013
The draft version of the US National Climate Assessment, released on Friday, makes remarkable reading – not just for Americans but for all humanity. Put together by a special panel of more than 240 scientists, the federally commissioned report reveals that the US is already reeling under the impact of global warming ... Nor is there any doubt about the cause of these rising temperatures ... A bitter struggle lies ahead ... Sender's name ... ....(size: 6.2Kb)
photo: AP / Kevin Frayer
14 Jan 2013
Allahabad. Hundreds of thousands of Hindu pilgrims led by naked, ash-covered holy men streamed into the sacred river Ganges on Monday at the start of the world's biggest religious festival. The Kumbh Mela in the Indian town of Allahabad will see up to 100 million worshippers gather over the next 55 days to take a ritual bath in the holy waters, believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings ... "I am ecstatic ... Agence France-Presse ....(size: 4.2Kb)
photo: White House / Pete Souza
14 Jan 2013
WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama issued a strong warning to Republicans on Monday that he will not negotiate over the debt ceiling or allow Republicans to use it as a bargaining chip. "To even entertain the idea of the United States of America not paying our bills is irresponsible. It's absurd," Obama said in a press conference ... "They will not collect a ransom in exchange for not crashing the economy," Obama said ... Also on HuffPost ... ....(size: 10.3Kb)
Space
15 Jan 2013
Virgin Galactic is considered the anchor tenant of Spaceport America; public money contributed at least $209 million to attract Virgin founder Richard Branson and others to establish facilities there ... That is what makes this so exciting," Branson said at the announcement that December ... Richard Branson's Space Tourism Company SpaceShipTwo. On a Flight Path to Space Tourism Richard Branson Biography....(size: 9.5Kb)
Irish Times
15 Jan 2013
PATRICK FREYNE. THE WAY WE WORK NOW. Business speak is being used to obscure harsh truths, but the increasing casualisation of labour should be recognised and understood. The business rhetoric of recent decades presents all workers as potential Richard Bransons, Sergey Brins and Dermot Desmonds. A street vendor is an entrepreneur in the same mould as Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg ... This way of thinking is economically useful ... ....(size: 7.7Kb)
CNBC
14 Jan 2013
Luck ... These were all topics billionaire entrepreneur Richard Branson discussed recently in a video interview with LinkedInexecutive editor Daniel Roth. Branson was the first among the professional network's "Influencers" to cross the million-follower mark ... In the interview, Branson answered a sampling of questions submitted by LinkedIn members ... .. ... ....(size: 1.6Kb)
Business Insider
14 Jan 2013
Bravo star Hermione Way found herself in the tabloids after frolicking in a hot tub on Necker Island with Richard Branson and newly single Harry Styles last week. On Saturday, Bravo 'Start-Ups. Silicon Valley' star Hermione Way wrote a long Facebook post titled "Kiss and don't tell ... Throughout the week we spent much time hanging out and talking to Richard Branson - he is such an incredible person and I also wanted to keep his trust." ... ....(size: 4.1Kb)
noodls
14 Jan 2013
As we revealed last week, David Tennant, Richard Branson and Usain Bolt are set to star together, for the very first time, in a new Virgin Media advert. In the first of the series, featured above, Richard and David get to ......(size: 1.4Kb)
The Independent
14 Jan 2013
Business leaders including Sir Richard Branson have warned that uncertainty about the UK's place in the EU is harmful and, in an unusual intervention last week, senior US diplomat Philip Gordon openly stated that America wanted Britain to remain in the EU ... "It's little wonder that British business leaders like Richard Branson and Martin ......(size: 5.4Kb)
The Daily Mail
14 Jan 2013
noodls
14 Jan 2013
Baltimore Sun
14 Jan 2013
The announcements were among several from PBS at the Television Critics Association winter press tour ... It will feature contributors and Hawking fans including astronaut Edwin Eugene "Buzz" Aldrin, Jr., actors Jim Carrey and Benedict Cumberbatch, mathematical physicist Sir Roger Penrose and entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson ... The three-part murder mystery "The Bletchley Circle" will air on Sundays beginning on April 21 ... ....(size: 2.5Kb)
m&c;
14 Jan 2013
The program gives viewers rare insight into Hawkings life, past and present, aided by a stellar cast of A-list contributors and Hawking fans, including astronaut Edwin Eugene Buzz Aldrin, Jr., actors Jim Carrey and Benedict Cumberbatch, mathematical physicist Sir Roger Penrose and entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson. From PBS. A BRIEF HISTORY OF MINE features exclusive access to Hawkings life story, told largely in his own words ... ....(size: 3.3Kb)
The Guardian
14 Jan 2013
Statement on Duke and Duchess of Cambridge's baby also ends speculation that couple were expecting twins. William and Kate, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Photograph. Andy Rain/EPA ... He added that Kate was likely to return to engagements "in the near future" ... Babies born in July – whose ranks include Nelson Mandela, Tom Cruise and Sir Richard Branson – tend to fare less well in their educational careers than those born in September ... ....(size: 4.9Kb)
Orange News
14 Jan 2013
Tweet. David Cameron has expressed confidence that he can overhaul Britain's relationship with the European Union as he warned against withdrawal ... "A fresh settlement and then fresh consent for that settlement, I think that's the right approach," he said ... Business chiefs including Sir Richard Branson have warned about the damaging uncertainty and last week, US diplomat Philip Gordon said American wanted Britain to stay in ... ....(size: 4.3Kb)
The Independent
14 Jan 2013
The UK is "better off" being part of the EU, Prime Minister David Cameron said today ... Asked about the issue during an appearance on ITV's Daybreak, Mr Cameron said ... But he added ... Business leaders including Sir Richard Branson have warned that uncertainty about the UK's place in the EU is harmful and, in an unusual intervention last week, senior US diplomat Philip Gordon openly stated that America wanted Britain to remain in the EU. PA ....(size: 3.8Kb)
| Sir Richard Branson | |
|---|---|
 Branson at the Time 100 Gala, 4 May 2010 |
|
| Born | Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (1950-07-18) 18 July 1950 (age 61) Blackheath, London, England, UK |
| Residence | London, England |
| Occupation | Chairman of Virgin Group |
| Years active | 1966–present |
| Net worth | US$4.2 billion (2011)[1] |
| Title | Sir |
| Spouse |
Kristen Tomassi (m. 1972–1979) «start: (1972-07-22)–end+1: (1980)»"Marriage: Kristen Tomassi to Richard Branson" Location: (linkback:http://en-wiki.pop.wn.com/index.php/Richard_Branson) (divorced) |
| Children | 2 daughters (1 deceased), 1 son |
Sir Richard Charles Nicholas Branson (born 18 July 1950) is an English business magnate, best known for his Virgin Group of more than 400 companies.[2]
His first business venture was a magazine called Student at the age of 16.[3] In 1970, he set up an audio record mail-order business. In 1972, he opened a chain of record stores, Virgin Records, later known as Virgin Megastores. Branson's Virgin brand grew rapidly during the 1980s, as he set up Virgin Atlantic Airways and expanded the Virgin Records music label.
Branson is the 4th richest citizen of the United Kingdom, according to the Forbes 2011 list of billionaires, with an estimated net worth of US$4.2 billion.[1]
Contents |
Early life[link]
Branson was born in Blackheath, London, the son and eldest child of barrister Edward James Branson (10 March 1918 – 19 March 2011)[4] and Eve Huntley Branson (née Flindt).[4][5] His grandfather, the Right Honourable Sir George Arthur Harwin Branson, was a judge of the High Court of Justice and a Privy Councillor.[6] Branson was educated at Scaitcliffe School (now Bishopsgate School)[7] until the age of thirteen. He then attended Stowe School until the age of sixteen. Branson has dyslexia and had poor academic performance as a student, but later discovered his ability to connect with others.[8]
Career[link]
Record business[link]
 |
This section needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. (May 2010) |
Branson started his record business from the crypt of a church where he ran The Student. Branson advertised popular records in The Student Magazine and it was an over night success. Trading under the name "Virgin", he sold records for considerably less than the "High Street" outlets, especially the chain W. H. Smith. The name "Virgin" was suggested by one of Branson's early employees because they were all new at business.[9] At the time, many products were sold under restrictive marketing agreements that limited discounting, despite efforts in the 1950s and 1960s to limit so-called resale price maintenance.[10] In effect, Branson began the series of changes that led to large-scale discounting of recorded music.
Branson eventually started a record shop in Oxford Street in London. In 1971, Branson was questioned in connection with the selling of records in Virgin stores that had been declared export stock. The matter was never brought before a court and Branson agreed to repay any unpaid tax and a fine. Branson's mother Eve re-mortgaged the family home to help pay the settlement.[9]
Earning enough money from his record store, Branson in 1972 launched the record label Virgin Records with Nik Powell and bought a country estate, in which he installed a recording studio. He leased out studio time to fledgling artists, including multi-instrumentalist Mike Oldfield, whose debut album Tubular Bells (1973) was Virgin Records' first release and a chart-topping best-seller.
Virgin signed such controversial bands as the Sex Pistols, which other companies were reluctant to sign. It also won praise for exposing the public to such obscure avant-garde music as Faust and Can. Virgin Records also introduced Culture Club to the music world. In the early 1980s, Virgin purchased the gay nightclub Heaven. In 1991, in a consortium with David Frost, Richard Branson had made the unsuccessful bid for three ITV franchisees under the CPV-TV name. The early 1980s also saw his only attempt as a producer—on the novelty record "Baa, Baa, Black Sheep", by Singing Sheep in association with Doug McLean and Grace McDonald. The recording was a series of sheep baaing along to a drum machine produced track and even made the charts at number 42 in 1982.
In 1992, to keep his airline company afloat, Branson sold the Virgin label to EMI for £500 million.[11] Branson says that he wept when the sale was completed since the record business had been the birth of the Virgin Empire. He later formed V2 Records to re-enter the music business.[12]
Business ventures[link]
Main article: Timeline of Richard Branson's business ventures
Branson formed Virgin Atlantic Airways in 1984, launched Virgin Mobile in 1999, Virgin Blue in Australia (now named Virgin Australia) in 2000. He was 9th in the Sunday Times Rich List 2006, worth just over £3 billion. Branson wrote in his autobiography of the decision to start an airline:
My interest in life comes from setting myself huge, apparently unachievable challenges and trying to rise above them...from the perspective of wanting to live life to the full, I felt that I had to attempt it.
In 1993, Branson took what many saw as being one of his riskier business exploits by entering into the railway business. Virgin Trains won the franchises for the former Intercity West Coast and Cross-Country sectors of British Rail.
Virgin acquired European short-haul airline Euro Belgian Airlines in 1996 and renamed it Virgin Express. In 2006, the airline was merged with SN Brussels Airlines forming Brussels Airlines. It also started a national airline based in Nigeria, called Virgin Nigeria. Another airline, Virgin America, began flying out of San Francisco International Airport in August 2007. Branson has also developed a Virgin Cola brand and even a Virgin Vodka brand, which has not been a very successful enterprise. As a consequence of these lacklustre performers, the satirical British fortnightly magazine Private Eye has been critical of Branson and his companies (see Private Eye image caption).[13]
After the so-called campaign of "dirty tricks", British Airways settled the case, giving £500,000 to Branson and a further £110,000 to his airline and had to pay legal fees of up to £3 million. Branson divided his compensation (the so-called "BA bonus") among his staff.[14]
On 25 September 2004, Branson announced the signing of a deal under which a new space tourism company, Virgin Galactic, will license the technology behind Spaceship One—funded by Microsoft co-Founder Paul Allen and designed by legendary American aeronautical engineer and visionary Burt Rutan—to take paying passengers into suborbital space. Virgin Galactic (wholly owned by Virgin Group) plans to make flights available to the public with tickets priced at US$200,000 using Scaled Composites White Knight Two.
Branson's next venture with the Virgin group is Virgin Fuels, which is set to respond to global warming and exploit the recent spike in fuel costs by offering a revolutionary, cheaper fuel for automobiles and, in the near future, aircraft. Branson has stated that he was formerly a global warming sceptic and was influenced in his decision by a breakfast meeting with Al Gore.[15]
Branson has been tagged as a "transformational leader" in the management lexicon, with his maverick strategies and his stress on the Virgin Group as an organisation driven on informality and information, one that is bottom-heavy rather than strangled by top-level management.
On 21 September 2006, Branson pledged to invest the profits of Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Trains in research for environmentally friendly fuels. The investment is estimated to be worth $3 billion.[16][17]
On 4 July 2006, Branson sold his Virgin Mobile company to UK cable TV, broadband, and telephone company NTL/NTL:Telewest for almost £1 billion. The new company was launched with much fanfare and publicity on 8 February 2007, under the name Virgin Media. The decision to merge his Virgin Media Company with NTL was in order to integrate both of the companies' compatible parts of commerce. Branson used to own three quarters of Virgin Mobile, whereas now he owns 15 percent of the new Virgin Media company.[18]
In 2006, Branson formed Virgin Comics and Virgin Animation, an entertainment company focussed on creating new stories and characters for a global audience. The company was founded with author Deepak Chopra, filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, and entrepreneurs Sharad Devarajan and Gotham Chopra.
Branson also launched the Virgin Health Bank on 1 February 2007, offering parents-to-be the opportunity to store their baby's umbilical cord blood stem cells in private and public stem cell banks.
In June 2006, a tip-off from Virgin Atlantic led US and UK competition authorities to investigate price-fixing attempts between Virgin Atlantic and British Airways. In August 2007, British Airways was fined £271 million over the allegations. Virgin Atlantic was given immunity for tipping off the authorities and received no fine—a controversial decision the Office of Fair Trading defended as being in the public interest.[19]
On 9 February 2007, Branson announced the setting up of a new Global science and technology prize—The Virgin Earth Challenge—in the belief that history has shown that prizes of this nature encourage technological advancements for the good of mankind. The Virgin Earth Challenge will award $25 million to the individual or group who are able to demonstrate a commercially viable design which will result in the net removal of anthropogenic, atmospheric greenhouse gases each year for at least ten years without countervailing harmful effects. This removal must have long-term effects and contribute materially to the stability of the Earth's climate.
Branson also announced that he would be joined in the adjudication of the Prize by a panel of five judges, all world authorities in their respective fields: Al Gore, Sir Crispin Tickell, Tim Flannery, James E. Hansen, and James Lovelock. The panel of judges will be assisted in their deliberations by The Climate Group and Special Advisor to The Virgin Earth Prize Judges, Steve Howard.
In August 2007, Branson announced that he bought a 20 percent stake in Malaysia's AirAsia X.[20]
On 13 October 2007, Branson's Virgin Group sought to add Northern Rock to its empire after submitting an offer that would result in Branson personally owning 30% of the company, changing the company's name from Northern Rock to Virgin Money.[21] The Daily Mail ran a campaign against his bid and Liberal Democrats' financial spokesperson Vince Cable suggested in the House of Commons that Branson's criminal conviction for tax evasion might be felt by some as a good enough reason not to trust him with public money .[22]
On 10 January 2008, Branson's Virgin Healthcare announced that it would open a chain of health care clinics that would offer conventional medical care alongside homoeopathic and complementary therapies.[23] The Financial Times reported that Ben Bradshaw, UK's health minister, welcomed the launch. "I am pleased that Virgin Healthcare is proposing to work with GPs to help develop more integrated services for patients."
Plans where GPs could be paid for referring National Health Service (NHS) patients to private Virgin services were abandoned in June 2008. The BMA warned the plan would "damage clinical objectivity", there would be a financial incentive for GPs to push patients towards the Virgin services at the centre.[24] Plans to take over an NHS Practice in Swindon were subsequently abandoned in late September 2008.[25]
In February 2009, Branson's Virgin organisation were reported as bidding to buy the former Honda Formula One team. Branson later stated an interest in Formula One but claimed that, before the Virgin brand became involved with Honda or any other team, Formula One would have to develop a more economically efficient and environmentally responsible image. At the start of the 2009 formula one season on 28 March, it was announced that Virgin would be sponsoring the new Brawn GP team.,[26] with discussions also under way about introducing a less "dirty" fuel in the medium term.[27] After the end of the season and the subsequent purchase of Brawn GP by Mercedes, Branson invested in an 80% buyout of Manor Grand Prix[28][29] with the team being renamed to Virgin Racing.
Branson and Tony Fernandes, owner of Air Asia and Lotus F1 Racing, had a bet for the 2010 F1 season where the team's boss should work on the winner's airline for a day dressed as a stewardess. Fernandes escaped as the winner of the bet, as Lotus Racing ended 10th in the championship, while Virgin Racing ended 12th and last.
Branson and Somerset County's Natirar Resort development in New Jersey, on the Natirar Estate, opened in late 2009 with the Ninety Acres Culinary Center. It includes a restaurant run by chef David Felton, cooking school, wine school, working farm, luxury resort and spa. The development, spearheaded by Branson and Bob Wojtowicz, sits on 500 acres which was the former estate of the King of Morocco.[30]
In 2010 Richard Branson became patron of the UK's Gordon Bennett 2010 gas balloon race, which has 16 hydrogen balloons flying across Europe.[31]
In April 2010 Branson described the closure of large parts of European airspace owing to volcanic ash as "beyond a joke". Scientists later concluded that serious structural damage to aircraft could have occurred if passenger planes had continued to fly.[32]
World record attempts[link]
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Richard Branson made several world record-breaking attempts after 1985, when in the spirit of the Blue Riband he attempted the fastest Atlantic Ocean crossing. His first attempt in the "Virgin Atlantic Challenger" led to the boat capsizing in British waters and a rescue by RAF helicopter, which received wide media coverage. Some newspapers called for Branson to reimburse the government for the rescue cost. In 1986, in his "Virgin Atlantic Challenger II", with sailing expert Daniel McCarthy, he beat the record by two hours. A year later his hot air balloon "Virgin Atlantic Flyer" crossed the Atlantic.
In January 1991, Branson crossed the Pacific from Japan to Arctic Canada, 6,700 miles (10,800 km), in a balloon of 2,600,000 cubic feet (74,000 m3). This broke the record, with a speed of 245 miles per hour (394 km/h).
Between 1995 and 1998 Branson, Per Lindstrand and Steve Fossett made attempts to circumnavigate the globe by balloon. In late 1998 they made a record-breaking flight from Morocco to Hawaii but were unable to complete a global flight before Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones in Breitling Orbiter 3 in March 1999.
In March 2004, Branson set a record by travelling from Dover to Calais in a Gibbs Aquada in 1 hour, 40 minutes and 6 seconds, the fastest crossing of the English Channel in an amphibious vehicle. The previous record of six hours was set by two Frenchmen.[33] The cast of Top Gear, Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond, attempted to break this record in an amphibious vehicle which they had constructed and, while successfully crossing the channel, did not break Branson's record.
In September 2008 Branson and his children made an unsuccessful attempt at an Eastbound record crossing of the Atlantic ocean under sail in the 99 feet (30 m) sloop Virgin Money.[34] The boat, also known as Speedboat, is owned by NYYC member Alex Jackson, who was a co-skipper on this passage, with Branson and Mike Sanderson. After 2 days, 4 hours, winds of force 7 to 9 (strong gale), and seas of 40 feet (12 m), a 'monster wave' destroyed the spinnaker, washed a ten-man life raft overboard and severely ripped the mainsail. She eventually continued to St. George's, Bermuda.[35] In March 2010 Richard tried for the world record of putting a round of golf in the dark at the Black Light Mini Golf in The Docklands, Melbourne, Australia. He succeeded in getting 41 on the par 45 course.
Television, film, and print[link]
Branson has guest starred, usually playing himself, on several television shows, including Friends, Baywatch, Birds of a Feather, Only Fools and Horses, The Day Today, a special episode of the comedy Goodness Gracious Me and Tripping Over. Branson made several appearances during the nineties on the BBC Saturday morning show Live & Kicking, where he was referred to as 'the pickle man' by comedy act Trev and Simon (in reference to Branston Pickle).[36] Branson also appears in a cameo early in XTC's "Generals and Majors" video.
He was also the star of a reality television show on Fox called The Rebel Billionaire: Branson's Quest for the Best (2004), in which sixteen contestants were tested for their entrepreneurship and sense of adventure. It did not succeed as a rival show to Donald Trump's The Apprentice and only lasted one season.
His high public profile often leaves him open as a figure of satire—the 2000 AD series Zenith features a parody of Branson as a super villain, as the comic's publisher and favoured distributor and the Virgin group were in competition at the time. He is also caricatured in The Simpsons episode "Monty Can't Buy Me Love" as the tycoon Arthur Fortune, and as the ballooning megalomaniac Richard Chutney (a pun on Branson, as in Branston Pickle) in Believe Nothing. The character Grandson Richard 39 in Terry Pratchett's Wings is modelled on Branson.
He has a cameo appearance in several films: Around the World in 80 Days (2004), where he played a hot-air balloon operator; Superman Returns, where he was credited as a 'Shuttle Engineer' and appeared alongside his son, Sam, with a Virgin Galactic-style commercial suborbital shuttle at the centre of his storyline. He also has a cameo in the James Bond film Casino Royale. Here, he is seen as a passenger going through Miami Airport security check-in and being frisked – several Virgin Atlantic planes appear soon after. British Airways edited out Branson's cameo in their in-flight screening of the movie.[37]
He makes a number of brief and disjointed appearances in the cult classic documentary Derek and Clive Get the Horn which follows the exploits of Peter Cook and Dudley Moore recording their last comedy album. Branson and his mother were also featured in the documentary film, Lemonade Stories. In early 2006 on Rove Live, Rove McManus and Sir Richard pushed each other into a swimming pool fully clothed live on TV during a "Live at your house" episode.
Branson is a Star Trek fan and named his new spaceship VSS Enterprise in honour of the famous Star Trek ships, and in 2006, reportedly offered actor William Shatner a ride on the inaugural space launch of Virgin Galactic. In an interview in Time magazine, 10 August 2009, Shatner claimed that Branson approached him asking how much he would pay for a ride on the spaceship. In response, Shatner asked "how much would you pay me to do it?"
In August 2007, Branson announced on The Colbert Report that he had named a new aircraft Air Colbert. He later doused political satirist and talk show host Stephen Colbert with water from his mug. Branson subsequently took a retaliatory splash from Colbert. The interview quickly ended, with both laughing[38] as shown on the episode aired on Comedy Central on 22 August 2007. The interview was promoted on The Report as the Colbert-Branson Interview Trainwreck. Branson then made a cameo appearance on The Soup playing an intern working under Joel McHale who had been warned against getting into water fights with Stephen Colbert, and being subsequently fired.
In March 2008 he launched Virgin Mobile in India and during that period, he even played a cameo performance in Bollywood film, London Dreams.[39]
In July 2010, Branson narrated Australian sailor Jessica Watson's documentary about her solo sailing trip around the world. It premiered on ONEHD on 16 August 2010.
In April 2011 Branson appeared on CNN's Mainsail[40] with Kate Winslet. Together they reenacted a famous scene[41] from the 1997 film Titanic for the cameras. On 17 August 2011, he was featured in the premier episode of Hulu's first long-form original production entitled, A Day in the Life.[42]
Activism[link]
Humanitarian initiatives[link]
In the late 1990s, Branson and musician Peter Gabriel discussed with Nelson Mandela their idea of a small, dedicated group of leaders, working objectively and without any vested personal interest to solve difficult global conflicts.[43]
On 18 July 2007, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nelson Mandela announced the formation of a new group, The Elders, in a speech he delivered on the occasion of his 89th birthday. The founding members of this group are Desmond Tutu, Graça Machel, Kofi Annan, Ela Bhatt, Gro Harlem Brundtland, Jimmy Carter, Li Zhaoxing, Mary Robinson, and Muhammad Yunus.[43] The Elders is independently funded by a group of "Founders", including Branson and Gabriel.
Desmond Tutu serves as the chair of The Elders—who will use their collective skills to catalyse peaceful resolutions to long-standing conflicts, articulate new approaches to global issues that are causing or may cause immense human suffering, and share wisdom by helping to connect voices all over the world. They will work together over the next several months to carefully consider which specific issues they will approach.
Branson's other work in South Africa includes the Branson School of Entrepreneurship, set up in 2005 as a partnership between Virgin Unite, the non-profit foundation of Virgin, and entrepreneur Taddy Bletcher, the founder of CIDA City Campus, a university in Johannesburg. The school aims to improve economic growth in South Africa by supporting start-ups and micro-enterprises with skills, mentors, services, networks and finance arrangements.[44] Fundraising activity to support the school is notably achieved by the Sunday Times Fast Track 100, sponsored by Virgin Group, at its yearly event, where places to join Richard Branson on trips to South Africa to provide coaching and mentoring to students are auctioned to attendees. In 2009, Jason Luckhurst and Boyd Kershaw of Practicus, Martin Ainscough of the Ainscough Group and Matthew Riley of Daisy Communications helped raise £150,000 through the auction.[45]
In September 2007, Richard Branson chaired the jury of the first Picnic Green Challenge, a €500,000 award for best new green initiative, set up by the Dutch "Postcode Loterij" (postcode lottery) and the PICNIC Network of creative professionals. The first Green Challenge was won by Qurrent with the Qbox.
Branson was the first celebrity guest for the popular charity fund raisers, Reserve Dinners, raising over $75,000 in one evening towards his Virgin Unite charity.[46]
In March 2008, Richard Branson hosted an environmental gathering at his private island, Necker Island, in the Caribbean with several prominent entrepreneurs, celebrities, and world leaders. They discussed global warming-related problems facing the world, hoping that this meeting will be a precursor to many more future discussions regarding similar problems. Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Wikipedia co-founder Jimmy Wales, and Larry Page of Google were in attendance.[47]
Branson has been very supportive of Kenya during its troubles, and in May 2008 had gone to Masai Mara to open a new school (Sekenani Primary School) which has also been partly funded by Virgin Atlantic frequent flyers who volunteered their time to help with the construction. A documentary of the experience was directed by Carolyn Scott-Hamilton and filmed by David Collupy.
On 8 May 2009, Branson took over Mia Farrow's hunger strike in protest of the Sudanese government expulsion of aid groups from the Darfur region.[48] He concluded his scheduled 3-day fast on 11 May. Later that year, he joined the project Soldiers of Peace, a movie against all wars and for a global peace.[49][50]
Richard Branson is a signatory of Global Zero (campaign), a non-profit international initiative for the elimination of all nuclear weapons worldwide.[51] Since its launch in Paris in December 2008,[52] Global Zero (campaign) has grown to 300 leaders, including current and former heads of state, national security officials and military commanders, and 400,000 citizens worldwide; developed a practical step-by-step plan to eliminate nuclear weapons; launched an international student campaign with 75 campus chapters in eight countries; and produced an acclaimed documentary film, Countdown to Zero, in partnership with Lawrence Bender and Participant Media.[53]
Since 2010, Branson has served as a Commissioner on the Broadband Commission for Digital Development, a UN initiative which promotes universal access to broadband services.[54]
In 2011, Branson served on the Global Commission on Drug Policy with former political and cultural leaders of Latin America and elsewhere, "in a bid to boost the effort to achieve more humane and rational drug laws."[55]
Politics[link]
In the 1980s, he was briefly given the post of "litter Tsar" by Margaret Thatcher—charged with "keeping Britain tidy".[56][57] In 2005 he declared that there were only negligible differences between the two main parties on economic matters.[58] He has frequently been mentioned as a candidate for Mayor of London, and polls have suggested he would be a viable candidate, though he has yet to express interest.[59][60][61]
Business practices[link]
Branson's business empire is owned by a complicated series of offshore trusts and companies. The Sunday Times stated that his wealth is calculated at £3.065 billion; if he were to retire to his Caribbean island and liquidate all of this, he would pay relatively little in tax.[62]
Honours and awards[link]
In 1993, Branson was awarded an honorary degree of Doctor of Technology from Loughborough University.
In the New Years Honours list dated 30 December 1999, HM The Queen signified her intention to confer the honour of Knight Bachelor on him for his "services to entrepreneurship".[63][64] He was knighted by HRH The Prince of Wales on 30 March 2000 at an investiture in Buckingham Palace.[65]
Also in 2000, Branson received the 'Tony Jannus Award' for his accomplishments in commercial air transportation.
Branson is the patron of several charities, including the International Rescue Corps and Prisoners Abroad, a registered charity which supports Britons who are detained outside of the UK.
Branson appears at No. 85 on the 2002 list of "100 Greatest Britons" (sponsored by the BBC and voted for by the public). Branson was also ranked in 2007's Time Magazine "Top 100 Most Influential People in the World". In 2009, Branson was voted the UK's "Celebrity Dream Boss" in an opinion poll by Cancer Research UK.[66]
On 7 December 2007, United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon presented Branson with the United Nations Correspondents Association Citizen of the World Award for his support for environmental and humanitarian causes.[67]
On 24 January 2011, Branson was awarded the German Media Prize (organised by "Media Control Charts" ), previously handed to former U.S. president Bill Clinton and the Dalai Lama.
On 14 November 2011, Branson was awarded the ISTA Prize by the International Space Transport Association in The Hague for his pioneering achievements in the development of suborbital transport systems with "Virgin Galactic".[68]
On February 11, 2012, Branson was honoured with the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences' President's Merit Award for his contributions to the music industry. The event took place the night before the 54th Grammy Awards. [69]
Personal life[link]
He stated in an interview with Piers Morgan that he and wife Joan had a daughter named Clare Sarah who died when she was just four days old in 1979.[70] The couple wed—at their daughter Holly's suggestion when she was eight years old—in 1989 at Necker Island, a 74-acre (30 ha) island in the British Virgin Islands that Branson owns.[71] He also owns land on the Caribbean Islands of Antigua and Barbuda. Holly Branson is now a doctor and is a keen supporter of the football team Oxford United.[72][dead link]
In 1998, Branson released his autobiography, titled Losing My Virginity, an international bestseller.[73]
Branson was deeply saddened by the disappearance of fellow adventurer Steve Fossett in September 2007; and, the following month, he wrote an article for Time magazine, titled "My Friend, Steve Fossett".[74]
Influences[link]
Branson has stated in a number of interviews that he derives much influence from non-fiction books. He most commonly names Nelson Mandela's autobiography, Long Walk to Freedom, explaining that Mandela is "one of the most inspiring men I have ever met and had the honour to call my friend." Owing to his interest in humanitarian and ecological issues, Branson also lists Al Gore's best-selling book, An Inconvenient Truth and The Revenge of Gaia by James Lovelock amongst his favourites. According to Branson's own book, Screw It, Let's do It. Lessons in Life, he is also a huge fan of works by Jung Chang.[75]
See also[link]
Notes[link]
- ^ a b "Richard Branson". Forbes. March 2011. http://www.forbes.com/profile/richard-branson. Retrieved 21 October 2011.
- ^ "This is London". This is London. 2010-11-26. http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/standard-home/article-23897620-londons-1000-most-influential-people-2010-tycoons-and-retailers.do. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ Hawn, Carleen (1 August 2006). "Branson's Next Big Bet". CNN. http://money.cnn.com/magazines/business2/business2_archive/2006/08/01/8382250/. Retrieved 22 May 2010.
- ^ a b "Edward Branson". The Daily Telegraph (London). 8 May 2011. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/law-obituaries/8501350/Edward-Branson.html.
- ^ "Births", The Times, 12 July 1950, pg. 1
- ^ "Forthcoming Marriages", The Times, 22 June 1949, pg.7.
- ^ "Welcome to Bishopsgate School". http://www.bishopsgateschool.co.uk/. Retrieved 19 September 2006.
- ^ "Famous people with Dyslexia". Dyslexiaonline.com. 30 March 2010. http://www.dyslexiaonline.com/famous/famous.htm. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ a b Richard Branson – Losing my Virginity
- ^ Another example was the "Net Book Agreement", which limited the ability of book outlets, including discount book clubs, to offer deep discounts.
- ^ "Profile: Richard Branson". The BBC. 27 September 2004. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/3693588.stm. Retrieved 3 May 2010.
- ^ "Richard Branson and Virgin-Probably Britains best known Entrepreneur". Solar Navigator.net. http://www.solarnavigator.net/sponsorship/richard_branson.htm. Retrieved 3 May 2010.
- ^ Private Eye had been one of the few nationally distributed magazines that carried advertising for his mail-order business.
- ^ Lee Glendinning (2 August 2007). "Row over dirty tricks led to decade of hostilities". London: The Guardian. http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2007/aug/02/theairlineindustry.britishairways. Retrieved 31 August 2011.
- ^ "ABC News: Breakfast With Al Gore Persuades Branson to Pledge Billions to Global Warming". Abcnews.go.com. 22 September 2006. http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=2477400. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "Come fly with me, come give it away". http://www.thefirstpost.co.uk/index.php?menuID=1&subID=770. Retrieved 23 September 2006.
- ^ "Virgin Group to Invest $3 Billion in Renewable Energy". http://renewableenergyaccess.com/rea/news/story?id=46071. Retrieved 12 October 2006.
- ^ Fryer, Pat (23 January 2007). "Uma Thurman to promote Virgin Media". earthtimes.org. http://www.earthtimes.org/articles/show/23001.html. Retrieved 2 February 2007.
- ^ Ruth Sunderland (5 August 2007). "',OFT defends 'snitch' policy',, Ruth Sunderland, The Guardian, Sunday 5 August 2007". Guardian (London). http://www.guardian.co.uk/airlines/story/0,,2141647,00.html. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Thelwell, Emma (10 August 2007). "Virgin Group buys AirAsia X stake". The Daily Telegraph (London). http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/markets/2813816/Virgin-Group-buys-AirAsia-X-stake.html. Retrieved 22 May 2010.
- ^ David Teather, Julia Finch and Graeme Wearden (13 October 2007). "Branson dangles offer for Northern Rock". London: Money.guardian.co.uk. http://money.guardian.co.uk/news_/story/0,,2190411,00.html. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Phillip Inman (12 December 2007). "Northern Rock bidder threatens to pull out unless takeover date set , Business". The Guardian (UK). http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/2007/dec/13/northernrock.creditcrunch. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "/ World – Branson launches healthcare business". Financial Times. 10 January 2008. http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/7f5d8f32-bfa0-11dc-8052-0000779fd2ac.html. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "Virgin amends its profit plans". / Healthcare Republic. 11 July 2008. http://www.healthcarerepublic.com/news/829970. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "Virgin drops GP practice plans". / Nursing in Practice. 22 September 2008. http://www.nursinginpractice.com/default.asp?title=VirgindropsGPpracticeplans&page=article.display&article.id=13581. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Branson's Virgin Group to sponsor Brawn GP, www.crash.net
- ^ Virgin Become Brawn Gp's Title Sponsor, Bleacher Report
- ^ "UpdateF1 >> Formula 1 News > FIA release 2010 entry list". Formula-1.updatesport.com. 12 June 2009. http://formula-1.updatesport.com/news/article/1244801351/formula_one/F1headlines/FIA-release-2010-entry-list/view.html. Retrieved 1 November 2009.
- ^ "Virgin set for Manor GP move". Autosport.com. http://www.autosport.com/news/report.php/id/76653. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Natirar: Our Story http://natirar.com/index.php/vision/our_story/
- ^ "Welcome! , 54th Coupe Aéronautique Gordon Bennett 2010 Official Site". Gordonbennett2010.com. http://www.gordonbennett2010.com. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Independent.ie Blog:. "Steve Connor: Airspace closure due to ash cloud fears 'was right move'". Irish Independent. http://www.independent.ie/opinion/analysis/steve-connor-airspace-closure-due-to-ash-cloud-fears-was-right-move-2629069.html. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ BBC News (14 June 2004). "Branson sets cross-Channel record". BBC News. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/coventry_warwickshire/3805275.stm. Retrieved 13 June 2007.
- ^ "Richard Branson sets out to crack transatlantic sail record". www.meeja.com.au. 3 September 2008. http://www.meeja.com.au/index.php?display_article_id=158. Retrieved 3 September 2008.
- ^ "Virgin Money Is Attempting to Break Transatlantic Passage Record". www.nyyc.org. 23 October 2008. http://www.nyyc.org/archives_public/. Retrieved 23 October 2008.
- ^ "on". Saturdaymornings.co.uk. http://www.saturdaymornings.co.uk/bbccatalogueprog.shtml?show=livekicking&number=LCKW533F. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "BA cuts Branson from Bond movie". BBC News. 21 April 2007. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/6579839.stm. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "Colbert Report – Richard Branson". Comedy Central. 2011-05-26. http://www.comedycentral.com/motherload/index.jhtml?ml_video=91955. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ "Neha Dhupia swept off her feet by Richard Branson : Bollywood News". ApunKaChoice.Com. 4 March 2008. http://www.apunkachoice.com/scoop/bollywood/20080304-2.html. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ "Show Pages - MainSail - CNN.com". 31 May 2011. http://edition.cnn.com/CNNI/Programs/main.sail.
- ^ TheHyperbot1 (2011-04-22). "Branson, Winslet – Titanic Scene ". YouTube. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf9W7w_9T1U. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ "Morgan Spurlock 'A Day In The Life': Original Series Premieres On Hulu (VIDEO)". The Huffington Post. 2011-08-17. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/08/17/morgan-spurlock-a-day-in-the-life_n_929008.html. Retrieved 2011-09-08.
- ^ a b Help Free The Children With Richard Branson, www.looktothestars.org
- ^ "Virgin Unite". Virgin Unite. http://www.virginunite.com/Templates/News.aspx?nid=96e9b78a-cc3b-4c6e-b4e4-bc0ba18184c1&cid=f010e54f-209d-4736-8586-0a24ae2f35b2&id=85b159fd-d3cd-482f-b2a4-fd47945eb87a/. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Richard Branson appearances booking agent, www.athletepromotions.com
- ^ [1] Reserve Dinners
- ^ "Thinking Green While Sifting Through the Sand" New York Times article published 22 March 2008
- ^ "Farrow ends Darfur protest fast" (Press release). BBC. 9 May 2009. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/entertainment/8041777.stm. Retrieved 4 January 2010.
- ^ "Richard Branson — The Cast — Soldiers of Peace". Soldiersofpeacemovie.com. http://www.soldiersofpeacemovie.com/about/the-cast/14/sir-richard-branson/. Retrieved 18 October 2009.
- ^ "Soldati di Pace (Soldiers of Peace)". Soldatidipace.blogspot.com. 26 February 2004. http://www.soldatidipace.blogspot.com/. Retrieved 18 October 2009.
- ^ "Group Offers Plan to Eliminate Nukes by 2030". The New York Times. 29 June 2009. http://www.globalzero.org/files/pdf/NYT_Jun29_09_AP_Syndicated.pdf.
- ^ Corera, Gordon (10 December 2008). "Group seeks nuclear weapons ban". BBC. http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7774584.stm.
- ^ Clift, Eleanor. "A Good Start: 'Global Zero' reminds us that eradicating nuclear weapons should still be our ultimate goal.". Newsweek. http://www.newsweek.com/id/236133.
- ^ "Commissioners". Broadbandcommission.org. http://www.broadbandcommission.org/commissioners.html. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ Smith, Phillip (January 27, 2011). "Ex-World Leaders Form Global Drug Policy Commission". stopthedrugwar.org. http://stopthedrugwar.org/chronicle/2011/jan/26/exworld_leaders_form_global_drug. Retrieved 2011-07-12.
- ^ "Britsaver-an accident waiting to happen.". The Times (London). 3 December 2005. http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/business/columnists/article745236.ece. Retrieved 27 August 2007
- ^ Heintke, Martina. "Sir Richard Branson". Archived from the original on 17 August 2007. http://web.archive.org/web/20070817055553/http://www.pointmade.co.uk/news_letters_6.htm. Retrieved 27 August 2007
- ^ "Labour and Tories same – Branson". BBC News. 15 April 2005. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk_politics/vote_2005/frontpage/4450641.stm. Retrieved 23 September 2006.
- ^ "Do Blacks Need a New London Mayor?" (– Scholar search). Archived from the original on 3 October 2006. http://web.archive.org/web/20061003034349/http://www.thechronicle.demon.co.uk/archive/londmayo.htm. Retrieved 27 August 2007
- ^ "Londoners snub politicians for mayor". BBC News (BBC News). 28 April 1998. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/special_report/1998/london_referendum/84708.stm. Retrieved 27 August 2007
- ^ "Who's in the running for mayor?". BBC News (BBC News). 10 April 1998. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/special_report/1998/london_referendum/73363.stm. Retrieved 27 August 2007
- ^ Watson, Roland. "The Sunday Times: Britain". The Times (London). http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2087-2483988_2,00.html. Retrieved 1 January 2007. [dead link]
- ^ Official announcement knighthood. The London Gazette. 30 December 1999.
- ^ "New Years Honours". BBC News. 31 December 1999. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/special_report/1999/12/99/new_years_honours/584131.stm. Retrieved 23 September 2006.
- ^ "Virgin tycoon is knighted". BBC News. 30 March 2000. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/695511.stm. Retrieved 15 January 2011.
- ^ "Branson beats Obama as celebrity dream boss", Cancer Research UK website. Retrieved 12 August 2009.
- ^ "UNITED NATIONS CORRESPONDENTS ASSOCIATION (UNCA) AWARDS CITIZEN OF THE WORLD AWARD TO RICHARD BRANSON AND HONOURS OTHER LEADING JOURNALISTS". MaximsNews Network. 7 December 2007. http://www.maximsnews.com/107mnundecember06unitednationscorrespondentsassociationdinner.htm. Retrieved 12 December 2007.
- ^ "La première assurance pour les voyageurs de l'espace voit le jour" (in French). Le Parisien. 14 November 2011. http://www.leparisien.fr/voyages/la-premiere-assurance-pour-les-voyageurs-de-l-espace-voit-le-jour-14-11-2011-1721019.php. Retrieved 1 December 2011.
- ^ The Recording Academy, Clive Davis Partner For Pre-GRAMMY Gala
- ^ 22 February 2009 (22 February 2009). "Piers Morgan interviews Richard Branson, Richard talks about death of baby". Baby Chums. http://www.babychums.com/2009/02/richard-bransons-baby-death-talks-to-piers-morgan/. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Bussmann, Jane (23 April 2001). "Necker Island Richard Branson's exclusive retreat". Daily Mail (UK). http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/holidaytypeshub/article-586850/Necker-Island-Richard-Bransons-exclusive-retreat.html.
- ^ "Branson: Why it's no to United". The Oxford Times. 24 September 1998. http://archive.theoxfordtimes.net/1998/9/24/84201.html:. Retrieved 14 September 2010. [dead link]
- ^ "Losing My Virginity – How I’ve Survived, Had Fun, And Made a Fortune Doing Business My Way". Bestsellersreviews.com. 2010-07-03. http://www.bestsellersreviews.com/losing-my-virginity-how-ive-survived-had-fun-and-made-a-fortune-doing-business-my-way-richard-branson-1999. Retrieved 2011-06-11.
- ^ Branson, Richard (10 October 2007). "',Time',". TIME. http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1670216,00.html. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
- ^ Lovelockdetails, James. "',Richard Branson's reading influences',". Infloox.com. http://www.infloox.com/person?id=7bb9503d. Retrieved 14 September 2010.
References[link]
- Branson, Richard. Losing My Virginity: How I've Survived, Had Fun, And Made a Fortune Doing Business My Way, 1999, Three Rivers Press. ISBN 0-8129-3229-3
- Branson, Richard. Losing My Virginity, Revised Edition First Published in Great Britain by Virgin Books Limited, London, 2002
- Branson, Sir Richard and Prescott, Colin. To the Edge of Space: The Adventures of a Balloonist, 2000, Box tree. ISBN 0-7522-1865-4
- Branson, Sir Richard. Sir Richard Branson, the Autobiography, 2002, Longman. ISBN 0-582-51224-7
- Branson, Sir Richard. Losing my virginity: The autobiography, 2005, ISBN 0-7535-1020-0
- Bower, Tom. Branson, 2001, ISBN 1-84115-400-8
- Branson, Sir Richard. Screw It, Let's Do It: Lessons in Life, 2006, ISBN 0-7535-1099-5
- Branson, Sir Richard. Screw It, Let's Do It Expanded: Lessons in Life and Business, 2007, ISBN 0-7535-1149-7
- Specter, Michael. "Profiles: Branson's Luck". The New Yorker, 14 May 2007, pp. 114–25.
Bibliography[link]
- Branson, Richard (8 December 2011). Screw Business As Usual. Penguin Group. ISBN 978-1-59184-434-1.
- Branson, Richard (3 June 2010). Reach for the Skies: Ballooning, Birdmen and Blasting Into Space. Virgin Books. ISBN 978-1-905264-91-9.
- Branson, Richard (2 July 2009). Business Stripped Bare. Virgin Books. ISBN 978-0-7535-1503-7.
- Branson, Richard (29 March 2007). Screw It, Let's Do It. Virgin Books. ISBN 978-0-7535-1149-7.
External links[link]
This audio file was created from a revision of the "Richard Branson" article dated 2012-05-08, and does not reflect subsequent edits to the article. (Audio help)
- Branson's autobiography on virgin.com
- Richard Branson at TED Conferences
- Richard Branson on Charlie Rose
- Richard Branson collected news and commentary at The New York Times
- Works by or about Richard Branson in libraries (WorldCat catalog)
- Branson's interview on India Infoline
- Gonzo Way of Branding Fast Company magazine article on Branson
- Lemonade Stories, a documentary film featuring Branson and his mother, Eve Branson.
- Profile on BBC News dated 27 September 2004
- Interview on BBC World Service 24 November 2006
- Video of Branson speaking at the 2007 Aspen Ideas Festival, 5 July 2007
- Entrepreneur Spotlight: Richard Branson
- Branson at Global Zero
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| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| Name | Branson, Richard |
| Alternative names | |
| Short description | Business magnate |
| Date of birth | 18 July 1950 |
| Place of birth | Blackheath, London, England, United Kingdom |
| Date of death | |
| Place of death | |
http://wn.com/Richard_Branson
Related pages:
http://it.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://cs.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://id.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://es.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://ru.wn.com/Брэнсон, Ричард
http://nl.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://pt.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://pl.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://fr.wn.com/Richard Branson
http://de.wn.com/Richard Branson
This page contains text from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Richard_Branson
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
| Marc Benioff | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Born | (1964-09-25) September 25, 1964 (age 47) San Francisco, California |
| Organization | Salesforce.com |
| Net worth |  US$2 billion (2012)[1] |
| Spouse | Lynne Benioff |
Marc Russell Benioff (born September 25, 1964) is Chairman & CEO of salesforce.com, a cloud computing company.
Benioff started salesforce.com in March 1999 in a rented San Francisco apartment[2] and defined its mission as The End of Software. He is “credited with turning the software industry on its head” by using the Internet to “revamp the way software programs are designed and distributed.”[3][4] He has long evangelized software as a service as the model that would replace traditional enterprise software. He is the creator of the term “platform as a service” and has extended salesforce.com’s reach by allowing customers to build their own applications on the company’s architecture, or in the salesforce.com “cloud”.[5] He is the author of three books, including the national best seller Behind the Cloud.[6]
Contents |
Career[link]
Prior to founding salesforce.com, Benioff was at Oracle Corporation for 13 years in a variety of executive positions in sales, marketing, and product development. At 23, he was named Oracle's Rookie of the Year and three years later he was promoted to vice president, the company's youngest person to hold that title.[7] Before joining Oracle, Benioff worked as an assembly language programmer at the Macintosh Division of Apple Computer, where he was inspired by the company and its co-founder, Steve Jobs.[8] While still in high school, he founded Liberty Software, which specialized in microcomputer games, creating and selling games for the Atari system[4] among others.[9]
Education[link]
Benioff received a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Southern California in 1986 where he was a member in the TKE social fraternity. He graduated from Burlingame High School in 1982.[10]
Influence and honors[link]
In 2010 Fortune named him one of the Smartest 50 People in Tech[11]as well as one of the Top 50 People in Business.[12]The San Francisco Business Times named Benioff 2009 Executive of the Year, "for defying the fierce economic downdraft--and taking the lead role in the creation of an industry."[13]
He was appointed by President George W. Bush as the co-chairman of the President’s Information Technology Advisory Committee and served from 2003–2005, overseeing the publishing of critical reports on health care information technology, cybersecurity, and computational sciences.
Salesforce.com has received many accolades including a Wall Street Journal Technology Innovation award. It has been lauded as one of BusinessWeek’s Top 100 Most Innovative Companies, named No. 7 on The Wired 40, and twice selected as a Top Ten Disrupter by Forbes.[14] In addition, Forbes named salesforce.com one of America's Best Companies.[15]
Philanthropy[link]
Benioff pioneered the 1/1/1 Integrated Philanthropic model, by which companies contribute 1 percent of profits, 1 percent of equity, and 1 percent of employee hours back to the communities it serves. Parts of this 1/1/1 model have been adopted by many other companies, including Google.[16]In 2005, the members of the World Economic Forum named him as one of its Young Global Leaders.[17] In 2007 the Committee Encouraging Corporate Philanthropy presented Benioff with the Excellence in Corporate Philanthropy Award and in 2008 invited him to become a director of the board.[18]
In June 2010 Lynne and Marc Benioff announced a $100 Million Gift to UCSF Children's Hospital with the goal of not only seeing the new hospital built but significantly advancing children’s health worldwide.[19] In 2010, Benioff and his wife were named one of the Top 25 Most Effective Philanthropists by Barron’s.[20]
Bibliography[link]
- Compassionate Capitalism: How Corporations Can Make Doing Good an Integral Part of Doing Well with Karen Southwick (2004)
- The Business of Changing the World: 20 Great Leaders on Strategic Corporate Philanthropy with Carlye Adler (2006)
- Behind the Cloud: The Untold Story of How Salesforce.com Went from Idea to Billion-Dollar Company and Revolutionized an Industry with Carlye Adler (2009)
External links[link]
- Official company biography Salesforce.com website
- San Francisco Chronicle interview
- Sonshi.com interview
- PBS's Newshour with Jim Lehrer cloud computing segment
- President's Information Technology Advisory Committee (PITAC) Report, Revolutionizing Health Care Through Information Technology
- PITAC Report, Cyber Security: A Crisis of Prioritization
- PITAC Report, Computational Science: Ensuring America's Competitiveness
- Book review in The Economist-Mystic Marc's Guide to Success
- UCSF to Get $100 Million for Hospital by Robert A. Guth, The Wall Street Journal
References[link]
- ^ "Marc Benioff - profile - Forbes.com". Forbes. 2011-06-07. http://www.forbes.com/profile/marc-benioff.
- ^ Julie Moline. “It takes a salesforce,” NYSE Magazine, 2004. (retrieved 7/7/09)
- ^ Jon Swartz, “Salesforce CEO leads charge against software,” USA TODAY, 7/24/2007 (retrieved on 7/7/09)
- ^ a b On the Record: Marc Benioff. San Francisco Chronicle. September 11, 2005 (retrieved on 7/8/09)
- ^ Nicholas Kolakowski, “Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff Talks Cloud Computing, Twitter,” eWeek. March 23, 2009 (retrieved 7/8/09)
- ^ Amazon.com: marc benioff
- ^ Carlye Adler, The Fresh Prince of Software. FSB: Fortune Small Business. March 1, 2003. (retrieved on 7/7/09)
- ^ Newton, Casey (August 28, 2011). "Apple all-star alumni recall Steve Jobs' lessons". San Francisco Chronicle. http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2011/08/28/MN5L1KRUUF.DTL.
- ^ Salesforce.com Developers Conference keynote, May 21, 2007
- ^ Burlingame High School
- ^ "The smartest people in tech". CNN. July 9, 2010. http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2010/technology/1007/gallery.smartest_people_tech.fortune/17.html.
- ^ "Businessperson of the Year". CNN. November 19, 2010. http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2010/news/companies/1011/gallery.business_person_year.fortune/19.html?iid=EL.
- ^ "Marc Benioff: Salesforce.com CEO defied gravity in 2009 – San Francisco Business Times". December 27, 2009. http://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/stories/2009/12/28/story1.html?b=1261976400^2637191.
- ^ http://www.salesforce.com/company/leadership/board-of-directors/#benioff
- ^ "The Short List". Forbes. December 30, 2009. http://www.forbes.com/2009/12/29/americas-best-companies-business-americas-best-company-10-shortlist.html.
- ^ Swartz, Jon (July 24, 2007). "Salesforce CEO leads charge against software". USA Today. http://www.usatoday.com/money/companies/management/2007-07-22-benioff_N.htm.
- ^ http://www.salesforce.com/company/news-press/press-releases/2005/01/050118.jsp (retrieved 7/7/09)
- ^ http://www.corporatephilanthropy.org/about-cecp/board-of-directors.html (retrieved 7/7/09)
- ^ Guth, Robert A. (June 17, 2010). "UCSF to Get $100 Million for Hospital". The Wall Street Journal. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704324304575307111971055670.html.
- ^ http://online.barrons.com/article/SB50001424052970204869904575620981420096098.html?mod=BOL_hpp_emr#articleTabs_panel_article%3D11
| Persondata | |
|---|---|
| Name | Benioff, Marc |
| Alternative names | |
| Short description | |
| Date of birth | September 25, 1964 |
| Place of birth | San Francisco, California |
| Date of death | |
| Place of death | |
http://wn.com/Marc_Benioff
Related pages:
http://fr.wn.com/Marc Benioff
http://de.wn.com/Marc Benioff
This page contains text from Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marc_Benioff
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License, which means that you can copy and modify it as long as the entire work (including additions) remains under this license.
