bazaar magazine May Issue

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M a y 2 0 1 3 - i s s u e # 17 1 b a z a a r - m a g a z i n e. c om

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DRESS FOR IT

Summer shades from light to night.

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The bazaar team...

Boss

Ahmed El-Adly

Operations

R ebecca Sweetman

Business Development I hab M ok alled

And just like that, it’s suddenly summer in Kuwait! Now, before you start whining and complaining about the heat and dust, let’s all take a moment to remember that the weather has been amazing for the past 6 or 7 months. No snow storms, no flooding, no intense heat, hardly any touz (that’s what we call dust around here), and generally fantastic ‘lets hang out and watch the world go by’ weather. Of course it’s going to get unbearably hot, and yes, it’s going to get dusty, and we might even have a few of those infamous ‘Orange Days’ when it suddenly looks like we’re living on Mars instead of Kuwait, but that’s all part of the fun, isn’t it? The group suffering creates group bonding, which makes us closer and more united, don’t ya think? Besides, that’s what you get when you choose to live in one of the hottest inhabited cities in the world, which happens to be in the middle of the desert. Complaining about it all the time is almost as ridiculous as an Eskimo complaining about the snow and cold!

Woah, do we have a lot to talk about in this month’s issue of bazaar! However, we can never get enough of the new restaurants making their way to Kuwait; from the opening of the meat-fest that is Ribs and Rumps, the luxury Italian dining in Bice, and Versus by Versace Caffé at Al Hamra, to the gorgeous Véranda at Harvey Nichols Kuwait. Also in this issue, the bazaar team had a great time visiting the oasis which is the home of Patsy Al Zayed’s Gecko Gardens, the exciting Film & Comic Con in Dubai, and we even got to play with some fantastic new toys such as the Porsche Boxter S, the KitchenAid Mixer Artisan 4.8L, and the ah-mazing Samsung Galaxy S4.

We know everyone is counting the days until their summer vacations, so check out our special travel pieces on Russia, Nepal and India, and for more tips and trouble-free traveling you must visit the lovely Lulu at Horizon Travel and Tourism.

Design

Sumaiya AL-Shar han

Staff Writer/Social Media Yasmine El Char if

Staff Writer

Brook M cClurg

Communications Consultant Hala Y. Sharara

Editor

A. Al-Duaij

Contributing Writers Abdulaziz Al Hashash Abrar Al Shammari Ayman Nassar Bibi Al-Falah Christina Pinto Jaye Sonia Loaay Ahmed Mike Campbell M. K. Al Khalaf Mohammad Alsanea Mona Azam Sabiha Bilgrami Shabana H. Shaikh Strawberry Girl Susannah J. Schuilenberg, PsyD Yara Al-Wazir Zainab Mirza

Photographers

Happy reading!

Amina Abdulmuhsin Fatima (@Zamaaan) Salah Al-Fahad Sumaiya AL-Sharhan Yasmin Mouftah Zainab Mirza

Ahmed El-Adly

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Also, if you LOVE the cover as much as we do, don’t forget to check out page 50 for more about the brand Haraka.

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Syndicates and Sources

LA Times Daily Star USA Today MTC International MIT Review Travel Times Hollywood Watch Slate Tribune Media Services

bazaar can be found at the following locations: Starbucks Coffee (65 branches) BSK - Britsh School of Kuwait Cozmo - 4 branches Topshop Galleria Complex The Video Club Souk Sharq Energie Costa Café H&M Bredz Jacques Dessange Miss Sixty Airport Mall Häagen Dasz The One Café ACK (Australian College of Kuwait) AUK (American University of Kuwait) AUM (American University of Middle East) Boxhill College Marble Slab D’Lush Early Bird Café Harley Davidson Al-Kout Mall Centrepoint Café Johnny Rockets Pizza Express Al Corniche Club Kuwait Airways Oasis Club Shay W Nanaa Le PQ Cafe Boushahri Clinic Al Salam Hospital 4 x 4 Customs Ligne Roset Hard Rock Café Pilates & More Mowasat Hospital Camille Albane Dar Al Funoon I.O. Centers Cutting Edge Salon Dasman Diabetic Centre The Burger Hub Dunkin Donuts Waterlemon Café Supreme International Clinic Casper & Gambini’s Segafredo Cafe O Pao Cafe

The views expressed in bazaar magazine are those of the respective contributors and not necessarily shared by the magazine or its staff (but sometimes they are).

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THE ARTISTIC DARE

VÉRANDA

THE SOUND OF COCO

GECKO GARDENS

WHAT’S TRENDING?

Muneera Hamed Alsharhan is back with gusto for truth or dare. With multiple Pretty Little Things shows, and a huge solo event at Bayt Lothan, under her belt, we think this aspiring artist and jewelry designer is more than ready to take us on.

Recently opening its doors to style savvy diners at the iconic designer destination, Harvey Nichols Kuwait, Véranda created

by Alshaya represents cuisine couture. Conceived by the best names in the hospitality industry we’re elated to bring you bazaar goes dining at Véranda.

You won’t help but fall in love with the wonderful Coco, her beautiful voice, and bubbly personality that is positively contagious! For May’s artist of the month, we’re introducing the inimitable sound of Coco: artist, musician, and music therapist.

With a landscaping business that is thriving and in the midst of expansion, local entrepreneur Patsy Al Zayed takes us on a stroll through a garden she built one leaf at a time. Using the love of the foliage of her hometown as a guide, she talks with passion of a greener Kuwaiti home.

Too many social media accounts and not enough time?

Check out our brand new page to show you what’s on, online: we’re liking, tweeting, pinning and sharing, so don’t waste an instant and start sharing with us, you might get a mention next month!

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TEACHING ABOUT ANIMALS

VERSUS BY VERSACE CAFFÉ

As the first of its kind for a Kuwaiti public educational institute, Al-Asma’a Bint Al-Hareth Secondary School for Girls and PAWS team up to bring a day of education and awareness about animal treatment and welfare to the student body.

This well-known Luxury brand enters the Kuwaiti food game with a high-end concept eatery in Al Hamra Luxury Center. We stop in to see if the brand synonymous with upscale design can deliver the Versace experience in the kitchen.

HAR AK A p.50

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AL ROUDAN FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT

COLD. RUSSIAN. WINTER.

UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL

STORY OF AN ARTISAN

A WHOLE NEW GALAXY

A local non-profit organization brings you the 33rd annual football tournament that you can enter yourself. Celebrated over 28 days during Ramadan, the Al Roudan tournament is increasing its scope as an international Football event.

Our own bazaar correspondent goes to the (other) cold white north in search of an experience from the past.

Using off-season travel as a time machine to recreate a period before all the tourists showed up, our man in Russia gets lost-repeatedly.

If you are into cars then you probably already know about the style, power, and panache that is the Cadillac ATS. With the 2013 model now on the market, they prove how commitment to quality and constant innovation keeps a company on their A-game.

In this special series, bazaar will explore the works of some of the finest Jewelry designers in Kuwait and the region through in depth investigations, special interviews and much more. We’re uncovering the artistes, their inspirations, and the beautiful pieces they create.

With the launch of Samsung’s new Galaxy S4 Smart Phone, local cell compare poised for yet another arrival of the Galaxy series. Tech lovers will revel in its new advanced features. We get a hold of one early and play with it so you don’t have to…but you’re going to want to!

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Shamiya Co-op Sharq Co-op Sheikha Complex Souk Salmiya Souk Sharq The Avenues The Palms Hotel Zain Headquarters Clinics & Hospitals Al Safat American Hospital Boushahri Clinic Dasman Diabetes Institute Diet Care Center International Clinic Kaizen Seif Hospital Soor Clinic Hotels & Health Clubs Al Corniche Club Crowne Plaza, Farwaniya Flex Hilton Kuwait Resort & Spa Holiday Inn, Salmiya Pilates & More - Salmiya, Mahboula The Palms Beach Hotel Malls 360 Mall Dunkin Donuts Arraya Haagen Dazs

Galleria Marina Mall/Crescent Casper & Gambini Chocolate Bar Johnny Rockets P.Q. Paul Souq Sharq Starbucks Haagen Dazs Breadz The Avenues Johnny Rockets Paul Pizza Express Crumbs Haagen Dazs Starbucks Airport Mall Pizza Express Starbucks Dar Al Awadi I.O. Center Spoons Chocolate Bar Salhiya Complex Starbucks

Stand Alones 4 Boutique A.W.A.R.E. Center Alghanim Marine

Beautylicious Brush Salon Cozmo Bowling - Salmiya, Kaifan, Discovery Mall, Mahboula Dar Al Funoon Gallery Tilal Goji Boutique Jacques Dessange Salon, Shaab Karizma Kuwait 4X4 Landmark - Al Rai café, Fahaheel, Salmiya London Limos N Bar N Style Pink Moon Boutique Sultan Gallery THE One The Video Club TIES Center Schools & Universities American International School American University of Kuwait Australian College Kuwait Boxhill College BSK - Britsh School of Kuwait Universal American School Kuwait University Starbucks Khaldiya Starbucks Adeliya Starbucks Jabriya Starbucks Shuwaikh

bazaar magazine has been a member of BPA Wordwide since June 2010, ensuring complete transparency, verifying bazaar as an audited publication which distributes 10,000 copies on a monthly basis. To access our BPA report, please visit www.bpaww.com or log onto our website www.bazaar-magazine.com for a downloadable pdf version.

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As well our monthly magazine, our free-access website gives us the ability to reach an even broader audience, with an average number of 28,000 unique visitors.

Packed with our articles covering entertainment, art, local happenings, music, movies, fashion, interiors, health, and interviews with the people responsible for said genres, bazaar‘s website will not disappoint.

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Too lazy to go pick up bazaar from your local café, now you can browse through the complete physical magazine online via issuu.com. Featuring our in-depth interviews, reviews, stellar photography, and the latest ads showcasing what hot in the market right now; you can browse through bazaar freely and securely, whether you're on your PC, laptop, Smartphone, or tablet.

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RAY BAN

what's on?

SULTAN ART GALLERY

Exhibition Title: Cloud 9 (Group show in collaboration with Dean Project, New York) Exhibition Dates: 7th – 30th May, 2013 Opening : 7th May, 2013, 7 - 9pm 8th May , 10am - 4pm & 7 - 9 pm.

9th - 30th May, 10am - 4pm (Closed Fri and Sat) Included artists: Lluis Barba (Spain) Tim Berg & Rebekah Myers (collaborative, United States) Laurent Elie Badessi (France) Bryan Drury (United States) Michael Dweck (United States) Nicholas Kashian (United States) Brett Murray (South Africa) Reinaldo Sanguino (Venezuela) Hunt Slonem (United States) DEAN PROJECT Gallery is pleased to present Cloud 9, a curated group exhibition that includes painting, photography and sculpture.

Expressions of happiness and euphoria are the common theme in this exhibition, though the works explore these ideas using different modes of inquiry. While some feature a literal representation of imagery associated with these concepts, others incorporate historical, social, and spiritual references to evoke ideas of happiness and euphoria.

The works by Tim Berg & Rebekah Myers and Reinaldo Sanguino are based on the idea of desire, an emotion typically associated with the search for happiness. Utilizing seductive materials, forms, and surfaces, these artists’ works produce representations of popular culture that serve as signifiers of desire.

Brett Murray, Bryan Drury, Hunt Slonem, and Laurent Elie Badessi treat materiality in their works (either physically or as language) as a vehicle for pondering existential questions, ultimately leading to a sense of euphoria in the form of thought.

Lluis Barba and Nicholas Kashian make use of imagery, color, and form to create compositions that activate the viewer’s senses, guiding each in a visual search for rewarding moments of recognition and sensory pleasure in their work.

Michael Dweck’s photographs capture moments, people, and places from Havana, Cuba, and take the viewer on a social and historical journey to explore the island’s privileged culture.

These postcard-like images call to mind instances of happiness and euphoria.

Cloud 9 brings together a sampling of works to explore the differing ways—how, when, and what—that a “Joyful Moment” could be defined in a particular work of art.

Sultan Gallery is located in South Sabhan, Block 8, Street 105, Building No. 168. For more information, please call 2471 4325 Ext. 110 or visit www.sultangallery.com 30

ECCO 10 K RACE

18th of May / 8:00am / Mishref Track REGISTER @ www.ecco10krace.com/register/ Or visit any of the stores below : Ecco Avenues / Ecco Marina / Ecco Mohalab / Ecco Muthanna / Ecco Shamiya For more info, please call: 2224 9340.

KLT

LA MARTINA

what's trending As much as we work our hardest to give you one rocking print issue after the other, we’re socially active (or try our best to be, we are bazaar humans after all) and we love it!

Find us online: It makes our day when we see your tweets/mentions/likes/comments/shares about your favorite features and more.

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START READING!

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what: Isma3ni: Open Mic type: Fanpage, initiative editor’s note: monthly live talent show in Kuwait!

what: selectkw type: IG Account, coffee table book editor’s note: showcasing Kuwait’s talented photographers

what: WayedComfy type: IG Account, product editor’s note: Comfy beanbags based in the UAE

what: BER the bunny type: IG account, pet stories editor’s note: Just for laughs!

what: Sport Balls replaced with cats type: Tumblr editor’s note: just for laughs, again!

what: Mean Green May type: hashtag, #MEANGREENMAY editor’s note: bazaar salad challenge, @yazzibazaar for updates!

what: kuwaitup2date type: IG account, news editor’s note: local updates and more

32

FRANKLIN MARSHALL

up close and personal DHARI AL MOAWAD Map extraordinaire, fellow human being By bazaar staff

When you’re having one of those days, where you feel like you’ve done it all in k-town, and you’re just about ready to book that ticket out of here, we urge you to stop and call Dhari Al Moawad. If it’s a project or activity you’re craving, he’ll happily oblige. Consider it his social obligation, as he enjoys committing to projects that deliver immediate positive results.

You might already know Dhari from the infamous K-Lue Kuwait. Since 2009, Dhari has been organizing extraordinary treasure hunts on a national, and sometimes regional, level. With K-lue, Dhari managed to offer people a chance to experience a unique and personally customized scavenger hunt for you and your friends to enjoy. At the same time, he manages to involve himself in various creative projects like Select, QortubaME, while carrying out his responsibilities at a morning job.

But how does he do it? To which he answers, “I’ve always had a knack for multi-tasking. My time is always occupied with productive projects. Even my friendships are based on solving problems, or coming up with projects, and challenging tasks.”

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Since his school years, Dhari enjoyed participating in youth programs like Loyac, and he coincidentally got into planning scavenger hunts during his second year of university while studying Engineering. You can even call him a sucker for game shows. He’s watched shows like The Crystal Maze since childhood and highly reveres The Amazing Race, but the idea of starting a business based on organizing scavenger hunts struck him as a little strange at first. He adds, “An old friend of mine encouraged me, despite my initial concerns of it not becoming a successful business. By the end of the week, I had figured out the logo and branding and planned my first scavenger hunt as a trial for a group of friends.” The rest, as they say, is history. Since then, K-Lue has gained tremendous acclaim. From organizing amazing hunts in the old Mubarakiya Souk to Los Angeles, Dhari is all about elevating the entertainment playing field in Kuwait. With more than 650 events under his sleeve, Dhari still likes to participate in other ‘productive’ projects. How he finds the time is beyond us!

“It’s very tiring and draining, as it’s an extremely

detailed process when it comes to K-Lue, but it’s a challenge that pushes me to do better.” Dhari adamantly sticks to the saying ‘time is of the essence’ and in doing so manages to devote his time to other projects as well as K-Lue. Dhari also managed to co-launch an exciting new creative endeavor in the form of the intriguing coffee table book, Select.

Working alongside the talented Khalid Al-Bannai, Select serves as a beautiful piece of art and a creative reference at the same time. Starting off their first issue with a focus on photography, Select will go on to include all aspects of the creative arts in Kuwait such as writers, architects, illustrators from the underground scene to famous personalities. He adds, “It’s my honor to feature the works of talented youth residing in Kuwait, and anything to encourage the creative field and give back to our community is a project worth pursuing. Select is an ongoing project and initiative, so look out for the next issue!”

Oddly enough, this productive guy finds the time to take a break! He has just recently returned from a 45-day vacation ‘from his life,’ as he put it, but that’s only because he’s simply rebooted that battery to do more!

bazaar questionnaire:

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Achievement and being around positive people.

I deeply dislike the term, ‘I can’t’ so any sense of ‘doing’ or producing gives me great happiness. After all, if you don’t try, you won’t know.

What is your greatest fear?

Failure. It’s my worst living nightmare! Oddly enough, I’ve failed on a grand scale many times before, I experienced it and it made me a better person. I guess that’s the learning cycle. You have to continue failing, to learn more and then succeed, and this applies to all aspects of life.

What is the trait you most deplore in yourself?

I sometimes have bouts of anger, or frustration. I believe in ying and yang, and sometimes this anger is the black spot in me and I really dislike it. I’ve lowered my expectations a lot to tone down my frustration, and it’s working!

What is the trait you most deplore in others?

Two things: selfishness and judgmental mentalities.

Which living person do you most admire?

Well, even though she recently passed away, Margaret Thatcher. I admire her quiet strength, and she was a fascinating woman whose strength is hard, if not impossible, to come by today.

What is your greatest extravagance?

Traveling, as my trips are sometimes completely out of budget when they are spontaneous. But I can’t help it, I feel like these trips are my reward for working hard all the time.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse?

Ikhtisir, or make it short, get to the point—I never mean it offensively, but I like concise explanations.

When were you happiest?

After each achievement, I feel like it’s the happiest moment of my life. From the small events, to larger ones, whenever an event goes smoothly, I’m extremely happy. Money isn’t a motive of mine, but the sense of reward makes it all worthwhile.

Which talent would you most like to have?

I wish I had the ability to learn multiple languages; I just never was able to! I also wish I had a knack for reading body language signals. I love reading about human behavior, and being able to analyze and collect information about people via their body language.

What would you consider your greatest achievement?

Every challenge that I successfully conquer I consider as my greatest achievement. Whether it’s a new position at work, or carrying out a great scavenger hunt.

Where would you most like to live?

It might sound clichéd, but I would always choose Kuwait. Despite any issues we might dislike, I decided I’m not giving up on my country.

To get in touch with Dhari, check out www.k-lue.com or follow his journey on Instagram @kluekuwait.

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truth or dare

THE ARTISTIC DARE Muneera Hamed Alsharhan By bazaar staff

After initially looking at the body of work that this young artist and jewelry designer was able to present a little while ago, we knew we wanted to get to know her just a little bit more. Muneera Hamed Alsharhan made her bazaar debut almost one year ago in our fashionality feature, and we couldn’t wait to explore her fun side in our truth or dare column.

Since our first encounter with Muneera, she has gone on to participate time and time again at the wonderful Pretty Little Things show and then presented her fantastic first solo exhibition at Bayt Lothan producing incredibly rare and unique pieces.

Muneera Hamed Alsharhan is an artist who specializes in creating contemporary jewelry. She cites her fascination with it being the ‘powerful 36

connection people can make with them’ and loves their ability to convey ‘our secrets and dreams’. A Rhode Island School of Design Graduate with a BFA in Jewelry and Metalsmithing, the artist continues to craft meaning into her bespoke work.

How would your mother describe you in one word?

Dreamer How would you describe your mother in one word?

A mother, my mother What is the most insane question you’ve ever been asked?

Really? < that What is the most spontaneous thing you’ve ever done?

Following my dreams What word in the English or Arabic language do you wish you had invented?

Tangerine in Bahraini, I thought it was a curse word the first time I heard it. Still makes me laugh every time.

Where would you like to live? What is your dream retirement location?

I want to live happily in Kuwait. But my dream place would be a nice little house surrounded with trees, like having my own little forest, with a secret garden that has butterflies and flowers all year long. Does that exist? Maybe i’ll build my house in a greenhouse…

What is the first famous quote that comes to your mind?

Life goes on.

What animal best describes the kind of partner you’d be interested in?

Maybe a German Shepherd. Smart, brave, loyal but also very playful, kind, and loving.

What do you miss about your childhood?

Not having too far to fall…

If you could change your name, what would you change it to?

But it describes me so well How would you describe your handshake in one word?

Welcoming but also curious.

What is the toughest part of your character?

I am a little stubborn.

Who is your favourite historical figure?

I know many random facts about many random historical figures but not enough to call one a favorite I think.

What in the world do you least desire?

Unambitious people.

What do you think is lacking in the world, which if there was more of, would make the world a better place?

Love, respect, acceptance.

Why do you think most girls/guys like you?

I give good hugs! No I don’t know, maybe because I am nice?

Finish this sentence: “Happiness is a thing called…”

Freedom.

For more information about Muneera and her work, please visit: www.muneeraalsharhan.com.

GANT

THE SCRUB SHOP Refitting a classic By bazaar staff

It is a well known fact that often utility necessitates invention. It is not until, due to some long-overlooked need that we have to “better this” or “tweak that” by 10% or so, which we are able to get to a superior product. When this happens, those of us behind the curve, put palm to head and simultaneously proclaim, “why didn’t I think of that?” Ahead of the curve on this one would be the owners of Halo Scrubs and The Scrub Shop at Al Ghawali Mall in Sharq.

Two budding entrepreneurs, Dr. Yousef Almuhanna and Shaima Behbehani, started with a simple concept from the medical world: why have Scrubs, that ubiquitous outfit found everywhere from the surgery theater at the hospital to the nurses station at your family practitioner, not evolved with the times around them?

One would think that advancements in material technology, changes in widely available colors, to even local cultural norms (here specifically with women being more conservative than in other parts of the world), would have caused manufacturers to take notice and 38

accommodate this on behalf of the buying public.

After seeing that this was not happening, Dr. Yousef and Shaima took it as their calling to do it themselves with the founding of both Halo Scrubs, and the store through which they sell them, The Scrub Shop. Their primary objective with the clothing line itself was to improve on the traditional design that we are all used to seeing.

They saw a fundamental flaw in the fact that, due to the fabrics used, they were often too heavy and did not breathe well. Additionally, there were several design elements that they felt did not properly meet the needs of the modern day, multi-tasking medical professional. Their answer to this problem can be seen in the small details throughout the fabric.

Additionally, they currently offer them in ten different colors—a far cry from the more commonly seen, one shade of teal that has been around for years.

The name of their brand itself is meant to be representative of the often-indefinable relationship that exists between doctor and patient.

We as patients truly do rely on them as our guardian angels to help us when we might otherwise not know how or be able to do so for ourselves. Thus, as the halo is to the angel itself, so are the scrubs to the medical professional.

This bold, yet humble assertion not withstanding, they also thought it might help the patient feel more comfortable—a subtle reminder of the healthcare professionals angelic role in their patients lives.

Less you think this article is only for doctors or those in the healthcare field, they also have a variety of other related products that even the layman can appreciate. From baby onesies with funny medically related slogans on them, to ties that have the eye chart printed on them, there is a variety of humor at hand. Also, should you need a gift for that friend of yours in the medical field, there are additionally other fitting items as well (cuff links, etc.). Beyond this, let us not forget how comfy scrubs are to sleep or lounge around the house in. If you have not tried it, and currently are thinking that I am crazy for even suggesting it—try

them, then let’s talk. I personally had to pick up a pair while I was there just to have something to sleep in through summer. Trust me.

With additional services provided to their customers free of charge including tailoring (not to mention the ability to try them on), this place definitely sets itself apart from its online competition. Though they have now been open for about one month, they say the response thus far has been amazingly supportive. The owners themselves are the ones working at the shop and enjoy the first hand interaction with their customers that this allows them. So, feel free to stop by for a coffee with them, give them your feedback on their line, and get the low down on the next launch for Halo Scrubs and the other products they plan to bring into The Scrub Shop.

The Scrub Shop is located at Al Ghawali Mall in Sharq. Reach them by phone at 2232 0777, online at www.thescrubshopkw.com, or follow them on Twitter or Instagram: @thescrubshopkw.

VERSACE

WE CARE Al-Asma’a Bint Al-Hareth and PAWS support animal welfare in Kuwait By bazaar staff

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“The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” ~ Mahatma Gandhi.

As part of their vision to realize a society where humans and animals can coexist peacefully, without the threats of cruelty and exploitation, PAWS (Protecting Animal Welfare Society) Kuwait performs awareness events and presentations at various private schools throughout Kuwait.

However, a respectable invitation to ‘I LOVE ANIMALS’ Day in Al-Asma’a Bint Al-Hareth Secondary School for girls in Nuzha, beckoned the organization to embark on a first in raising awareness at a public educational institution. When a shared vision is present to increase the numbers of ethically responsible people to live with a deeper sense of purpose, then true change does come about.

An exhibition and event that is also the first of its kind at the school, ‘I LOVE ANIMALS’ Day showcased the issues of animal welfare, treatment and cruelty via its amazingly creative youth. Each class assembled a booth filled with informative brochures, and handmade gifts, while the students presented their work to visitors in an effort to raise awareness about animal welfare in Kuwait. Taking place in the school auditorium, attendees included parents, 40

students and invited visitors.

Teacher and Head of the English Language Department, Mrs. Irina Al Jamili, who organised this event with support from the English Language Department and fellow students, was the first to open the event with her uplifting speech. This was followed by an astounding presentation by Fatma Al Askar, a senior student at Al-Asma’a Bint Al-Hareth Secondary School, where she wisely wove religious standpoints concerning animal cruelty and treatment, impressively demonstrating the findings of a student survey conducted at the school. According to the study: 93% of the students believe that a state-run animal shelter should exist in Kuwait; 97% agree that animals should have rights; 91% agree that people who abuse animals should be punished; 91% say pet owners should be educated about animals; and 96% agree animals shouldn’t be tied up or confined.

Upon presenting these findings, Fatma concluded with this heartfelt statement, “Please don’t walk out the door and forget about this subject. You should educate those around you. We need the next generation to grow up to be kind and compassionate towards animals. If you witness animal abuse, don’t keep quiet. Report it to the police, take pictures, try to talk to the person

committing the abuse and get them to stop. Please protect animals, they bring joy to our hearts.”

PAWS Chairperson Manuela Tague then followed with a presentation which referred to the mission, vision and constant efforts of PAWS Kuwait.

She also mentioned that besides the need to ensure the basic needs of a pet in a home environment, that the unsatisfying conditions for animals in general in Kuwait, domesticated, stray and wild, are of an abhorrent nature. Examples seen daily include the lack of regulation/monitoring at the Friday market, dogfights, and animal abandonment and cruelty, where she pointed out that the future of animal treatment is lying in the hands of this next educated generation. She deeply believes that this event was a big step forward in the correct direction, to establish animal rights laws in Kuwait, stating, “When I entered your school today, I was overwhelmed by what you have done.” Following Manuela Tague’s speech, Dr Tariq Al Tawari, a professor at Kuwait University, went on to talk about how important it is to treat animals kindly, as per Islamic teachings.

For PAWS Kuwait, the event marked a milestone for the organization that strives to provide assistance and rescue to homeless, neglected and abandoned

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animals, as well as veterinary care and adoption, for stray, wild and domestic animals in Kuwait, in partnership with their rescuers. They were also overwhelmed that the wonderful students went above and beyond what they were expecting, to organize food and equipment donations for PAWS. Many students even went on to apply for volunteering at the organization’s shelter. The event truly reflected an invigorating attitude towards positive change, echoed by Ms Bedour Al Moqaseeb, an English language teacher at the school, in her closing speech, “when you focus on the good in your life, the goodness will spread.”

For more information on animal welfare and how you can support PAWS and their current shelter relocation please visit: www.paws-kuwait.org or email: info@paws-kuwait.org.

FERRAGAMO

www.ferragamo.com

bazaar goes dining VÉRANDA Cuisine couture at Harvey Nichols Kuwait By bazaar staff

Having already set the ultimate standard in luxury designer shopping in Kuwait with Harvey Nichols Kuwait, the recent opening of the upscale dining concept, Véranda, makes the prestigious designer store the most sought-after destination in town. Created by Alshaya exclusively for Harvey Nichols Kuwait, Véranda delivers the promise of bespoke design and ‘haute cuisine’.

With a visionary menu dreamed up by worldclass chefs and refined interiors that are sure to impress the most avid design lovers, Véranda’s concept is carefully conceived around distinctive Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine with a twist of Asian fusion. Ingredients are especially imported from exotic worldwide destinations, and the techniques used in preparing the appetizing menu are inimitable at the core.

Located on the first floor of the luxurious Harvey Nichols department store, Véranda occupies a 10,000 square foot space that overlooks the bustling Grand Avenue at The Avenues. Upon arrival, the friendly staff will usher you towards your table, and you can’t help but take a few moments to absorb the alluring design. Envisioned to blend the indoor with the outdoor, Véranda’s interior design echoes with serenity and exclusivity, preparing its clientele for the dining experience yet to come.

Conceptualized by the internationally renowned hospitality designer Adam D. Tihany, the space at Véranda is resplendent of a cosmopolitan Kuwait; a 42

fashionable embrace welcomes you in the billowing curves of the magnificent ivory ceiling against light wood beams, which ultimately bend into layered, white walls opposite the beam structures.

Creating that secret Garden of Eden that takes you away from the stresses of your daily routine, landscaping at Véranda is essential to its ambience.

With plants, gently draped from the minimalist walls, and shapely trees which convey a sense of closeness, guests are also welcomed to admire the work of artist Bram Tihani upon arrival. The long back corridor towards the entrance of the restaurant comes alive with his monumental, photographic mural depicting playful semblances of fashionable icons, the ultimate Birkin handbag here, and a towering stiletto there—patrons arrive to a majestic ode to fashion. Where seating at Véranda is concerned, guests can choose between two different seating arenas, the upper of which offers a sense of warm seclusion, while the lower one is more open and facing the Grand Avenue, giving diners the best view at The Avenues.

Our starter menu choices at Véranda provided us with the most desired aspects of Middle Eastern cuisine, reviving the sense of convivial gatherings and sharing of one’s meal. Nonetheless, fusion elements were also integral to redefining our dining experience. We began our foray with the Homemade Hummus, immaculately reinterpreted and served in a slow roasted baby bell pepper, with a Pistachio and

Tahini light side sauce. Try this with the homemade Pita bread, or better yet, the walnut bread rolls. The flavors are exceptionally fresh, the hummus coming alive against the sweetness of the bell pepper. From there we sampled the King Prawn, artfully presented and given a fusion twist with an aromatic saffron, lime and chive mayonnaise. We finally sampled the delicate Cherry Wood Smoked Salmon; presented in a glass cloche, the Nordic salmon is cured with Aniseed and freshly smoked within the cloche to give the accompanying apple and fennel salad a flavor that tantalizes the senses when revealed.

Upon briefly meeting with the wonderful Executive Chef, Mr. Frederic Robichon, who graciously paid our table a friendly visit, we learned that an attention to seasonality and freshness is the key that makes Véranda’s menu an astounding success. This

couldn’t be truer as we tried our selection of main dishes. From our entrée of Canadian Lobster Ravioli with leek fondue and light bisque sauce; personally, we wished to indulge more in the Al Dente ravioli, its texture perfectly accompanying the fresh and succulent lobster filling. However, we knew that more delectable pleasures would ensue in the Lamb Moussaka and Hamour Medallions. Slowly cooked for five hours in Josper oven, the Lamb Moussaka simply melts in the mouth, while the Hamour Medallions proved as an equally special treat. Prepared in an innovative Jallab reduction sauce, which is slightly sweet, this made for a genius accompaniment to the crusted nut, fennel, and apricot salsa that were draped under the succulent Hamour pieces.

Dessert is a sumptuous affair of indulgence at Véranda. Also reinterpreted, the Crème Brulée

Trilogy is an exotic and scented journey that starts with a Madagascar Vanilla Pod Crème Brulée, a Rose Crème Brulée and delighting the palate finally with Pistachio Crème Brulée. We were advised to try these delicacies in that written order, building up our palates to experience the contrasting flavors of gentle vanilla, sensuous rose, and invigorating Pistachio. Beyond that, the Tiramisu takes on a Middle Eastern vibe as it is prepared with Arabic coffee and cardamom, offering an exciting diversion away from traditional coffee.

A dining experience at Véranda cannot end without sampling the delicious coffees and teas on offer. Using an in-house roasting preparation technique, the top quality beans are sourced from Guatemala, Nicaragua, Brazil and Ethiopia, offering guests exquisite espressos, sultry house blends and

frothy Italian milk styles such as cappuccinos and lattes. Better yet, guests have the option to purchase the coffee grinds for enjoying their strong aroma and flavor at home. For decaf lovers, options are aplenty as beans are also decaffeinated in house. Lastly, where tea is concerned, Véranda proudly offers the largest menu of fine teas in the Middle East, which consists of 21 tea blends, including an addictive Rooibos tea that rivaled our strong affinity for coffee.

Located on the first floor of Harvey Nichols Kuwait, guests can enter Véranda directly off the Grand Avenue and experience haute cuisine of a lifetime for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and all those magnificent moments in between. For reservations please call 2228 3141.

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INSTAGRAM @ZAMAAAN Sharing personal Arab history

By Shabana H. Shaikh

It seems these days Instagram has become the answer to everything. For some it is a trendingthing, while for others it’s a dual marketing/promoting medium.

And then there are those – like Fatima – who are taking advantage of its appeal to bring vintage onto a contemporary platform.

Fatima is the essential archivist behind Zamaaan – an interactive album of historical photos, many of them emerging from private family collections. Explaining Zamaaan to me, which in Arabic means ‘a long time ago,’ Fatima wrote in an email interview, “I think we’re at a time when it’s more acceptable to share private photos online. Five years ago, if I asked my father if I could publish his photos, he would have probably been wary. But now, everyone’s online and I believe that the region is slowly accepting this digital medium.”

Some photos on Zamaaan shed light on the lifestyle led by people we might actually know, which makes it relatable to viewers. Yet, others are solemn historical evidences of a bygone era, intriguing, nonetheless.

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The Obsessed Archivist Fatima is a native of Mauritania, a little-known Arabian country in West Africa and site of one of the World’s strangest natural wonders called the Eye of the Sahara (Richat Structure). To some extent, that explains Fatima’s fascination with ‘time-locked’ notions.

“I’m obsessed with memory and nostalgia,” she explained, “However, the most important reason behind Zamaaan I think is that traveling back and forth from Mauritania I always feel like I am time traveling between two different zones. It seems Mauritania was the land that time forgot.”

Being an ambassador’s daughter, Fatima has lived in the UAE, Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Sudan. She went to Qatar on a scholarship to study at the Georgetown SFS-Q University and decided to stay on in Doha after graduating in 2010 with a major in International Politics. “I’ve always been interested in history and archives,” she shared.

Why Zamaaan?

“For many reasons,” explained Fatima. Initially, about a year ago, she started nostalgia Tumblr, which

failed to gain traction, so she closed it. With the advent of Instagram, she decided to give the concept another start. This time, though, her persistence paid off.

“I’ve been genuinely surprised at the feedback I’ve received,” she exclaimed. “There are accounts out there that feature specific countries or cities, but with Zamaaan I wanted to encompass highlights from the entire Arabian and Middle Eastern region. It’s about showcasing our heritage in a way that’s easily digestible and interesting.”

How Zamaaan works?

With growing followers, fortunately, Fatima is not alone in loving vintage. Whilst the people in the photos are not necessarily recognizable, they give you an undiluted glimpse into a past that is neither staged nor tampered with.

Anyone can submit photos to Zamaaan (zamaaanawal@gmail.com), only criteria being that it should be vintage photos of Arabs and Khaleeji natives anywhere around the world.

“I get quite a few submissions daily, some are personal photos,

but others are interesting historical photos that my followers have found scattered in Instagram. My Tumblr gets about 50 views a day.”

What’s next?

Focusing on the Khaleej, Fatima would love to go offline and scavenge for photos that could tell a narrative once put together. “There is this photo of Muhammad Ali in Doha and I’m sure those who were in the audience at the event, might have taken photos too.”

“Another thing I’m interested in is using the database of images to encourage young artists and designers from the region. There are already a few artists out there who do this, such as Kuwait’s Muneera (@memhasagun) and Saudi’s (@Shaweesh). We should be able to move on and interpret our history in a fun way, engage, remix, and collage it.”

Based in Doha, Fatima is the social media specialist for Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art. You can follow her on Twitter @vatyma, Instagram @zamaaan and Tumblr @zamaaanawal.tumblr.com.

Images courtesy of Fatima.

MANGO

MIDDLE EAST FILM AND COMIC CON “Comics are a gateway drug to literacy.” ― Art Spiegelman

By Zainab Mirza

The Middle East Film and Comic Con (MEFCC), initiated in Dubai last year, is the only one of its kind in the Middle East, uniting people harboring a fervent love for comics.

MEFCC 2013 was bigger, and oh, so much better! In the true spirit of Comic Con, originality, excitement, and laughter reigned supreme.

I couldn’t wipe the soppy grin off my face as I walked into the venue. There was so much to see! Numerous events went on simultaneously—autograph and photo sessions with celebrities, workshops, live performances, movie screenings, Q&A panels with artists and celebrities, etc. There were dozens of booths where one could buy new and vintage comics, merchandise, art, games, and meet scores of comic book and manga artists from across the world.

Cosplayers ambled about, completely in character. Cosplay or ‘costume play’ involves dressing up and stepping into the shoes of a 46

fictional character. And what’s a Comic Con without the cosplay? There were superheroes, stormtroopers, villains, zombies, characters from Mortal Kombat, Final Fantasy, Prince of Persia, Assassin’s Creed, World of Warcraft and other games, the entire Akatsuki— an evil organization of rogue ninja in the animé Naruto—and several other characters from popular culture in attendance. I spotted Captain Jack Sparrow, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Mario and Luigi, Zelda, and even Tom and Jerry! The latter evoked squeals of excitement and affection from attendees of all ages; who hasn’t grown up watching the comic duo? All the cosplayers posed for photographs; I snapped a quick pic of the masked Zero from the animé Code Geass and was delighted when he took his leave with a courteous bow.

Celebrity guests included actors Manu Bennett (Spartacus), Warwick Davis (The Harry Potter series), Ioan

Gruffudd (Fantastic Four), Sean Astin (The Lord of the Rings), Alan Tudyk (Firefly), voice actors Tara Platt and Yuri Lowenthal, and screenwriter Max Landis (Chronicle).

Max Landis…I’ve never come across a more passionate and fascinating individual. I could watch him talk for hours. Yes, watch! His entire being surges with boundless energy when discussing his scripts and ideas (even otherwise) and his zest and love for writing fired up the writer in me.

Manu Bennett is a Maori (an indigenous people of New Zealand) and was asked about the ‘Haka’ war cry when he was on stage. He enlightened us…with a demo.

Picture this: The stage is overrun with over forty volunteers from the audience—many in cosplay— stomping while repeatedly thundering out “KA MATE! KA MATE! KA ORA! KA ORA!” in cohesion with Manu Bennett, who is now quite red in the face from

roaring. I was in splits at the sight of the awesome spectacle. Manu also explained the ‘Hongi’; a traditional Maori greeting wherein two people press their noses together and “take in the breath of life,” (i.e. each other’s breath). He then ‘greeted’ the volunteers thus. Needless to say, the crowd went wild.

The MEFCC also provided local talents with a platform to display their brilliance at the Artists’ Alley. A number of young artists sat sketching or painting away, each demonstrating a breathtakingly unique, developed style.

From the many workshops, I attended ‘Storyboarding and Sequence Direction’ by Dino Athanassiou, an animation expert who’s worked on the animation and graphics for several highly successful films. He played a few sequences he’d directed from animated films—Sinbad: Legend of the High Seas, Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, and my favorite, The Road to El Dorado. Dino shed light aplenty on how animated films are produced.

For instance, to synchronize dialogue with the movements of animated characters, animators read the script while observing their own movements in a mirror, or watch voice actors at recording sessions.

I encountered a truly inspiring person at the Palestine Children’s Relief Fund (PCRF) booth, where they were selling artwork and raising funds for the building of the first Pediatric Cardiac Centre in Gaza. Richard Mitchell is a 56-year old British expat living in the Middle East. He will undertake an incredible journey, travelling 22,000 kilometers across thirty countries on a 22-year old Honda Africa Twin motorcycle to raise awareness and funds for the PCRF’s cause, intending to give back to the region that has enabled him and his family to live a secure and pleasant life.

If there’s anything I’ve taken from the MEFCC, whether from the celebrities, artists, organizers, exhibitors, cosplayers or attendees, it’s this: do what you love, love what you do, and be the best you can be at what you do.

GULF BANK

HAPPY TRAVELS Lulu Al Issa for Horizon Travel and Tourism By bazaar staff

When preparing for the summer holidays, one can’t help but feel lost when faced with the myriad exotic travel destinations that are out there, ready to be explored. You can consult your friends, only to realize that any given trip would be an exact replica of their experiences, and not your own. Faced with this dilemma ourselves, we headed instead for a friendly meeting with Lulu Al Issa, travel guru extraordinaire and Business Development Manager at Horizon Travel and Tourism.

We consider Lulu more of an inspiring one-woman show, involved in various facets of the company’s wide operations. From training the staff in hospitality, coming up with amazing new travel options and competitive offers, to marketing and social media, we basically think she has one of the coolest jobs ever!

With a Bachelors degree in business administration and a concentration in Hospitality and Tourism from George Washington University, one can say that joining her family’s business is an answer to her calling.

Horizon Travel and Tourism is a regional travel management company suited to meet the needs for corporate and leisure travel. As part of Horizon Aviation Group that is fully invested in aviation, tourism and travel via the ownership of an umbrella of travel 48

services and Airline GSA’s, they deliver unparalleled quality to customers with various needs. These include Jet Airways, nasair, Express Holidays for Travel and Tourism, and a partnership with Mubasher, a wholesaler for various travel services. That’s the added edge: a network of travel services, competing on price and unrivaled quality.

A specialty of hers is customizing honeymoon packages for newlyweds.

“This is the most personal and special trip a couple could ever plan, and our services are exclusively based on what the happy couple wishes to do. We go above and beyond to provide a list of activities available at the destination and even pre-plan the events if necessary.” As opposed to impersonal services offered elsewhere, or going with what a trendy honeymoon destination entails, Lulu offers couples a chance to discover places that are different from the norm.

Instead of fighting the trend of customers going online, Horizon intends to stay tuned to customer’s desires while offering the personal experience of a one-on-one travel consultation with experts who understand the travel preferences of discerning customers in Kuwait and the region. Lulu proudly asserts that service is key, with examples including 24/7 help, where dedicated staff with

an emergency mobile and laptop are there to assist during any hassles that may occur during travel time, like delays, cancellations, etc. Not only so, regular and loyal customers can have their travel services arranged via email or telephone, and your travel itinerary can be sent directly to your inbox or home. Lulu smiles, “people may be cost cutting elsewhere but it’s important for us to keep that personal touch that is a dying breed in the hospitality field.”

Even if travel isn’t in your immediate future, you should pass by and meet the wonderful Lulu; she considers meeting new people her favorite part of her job, and says “meeting new people all the time is amazing, and being able to help them makes it all worthwhile.” This travel guru loves learning about new destinations and promotions, hotels, and all the best that’s available in the field of leisure travel. Her favorite travel destinations will leave you reeling with excitement: from Hong Kong to Puerto Rico, you will be booking your flight in no time, as she’s the expert you want to consult.

Lulu aims to broaden people’s horizons to visit extra-ordinary places like South America, Africa, and New Zealand. For daily deals, Horizon Travel and Tourism releases Package of the Day deals via their Instagram account and their website, which they also aim to revamp in the near future to include new and advanced search engine options.

As an asset to a pivotal organization in the field of travel and tourism, Lulu is breaking the mold of what a typical managerial role could be like, and this is highly attributed to her passion for hospitality and travel.

She encourages Arab women to jump right in, and not be afraid of barriers or perceptions about their roles in her line of business. She concludes, “You never know, you could be born with the talent to do this job.”

Follow Horizon Travel and Tourism on Twitter and Instagram @horizontrvl or visit their website, www.horizontrvl.com.

DKNY

fashionality HARAKA To wear with swagger By bazaar staff

If you hadn’t noticed by now, our May cover’s got swagger, or as we would like to say in Arabic, haraka. We took it upon ourselves to celebrate the Haraka fever that recently hit Kuwait, and once you get to know one of the founders behind the Haraka brand Muna Yateem, you’ll have every reason to jump on the Haraka-wagon too. It’s fun, spirited, a tad cheeky and simply über-cool—basically everything we could ever stand for here at bazaar.

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Having previously met Muna at the lifestyle shopping event, Pretty Little Things, I asked her what motivated her to create those funky, bright colored watches that everyone was huddled around, pushing and shoving to get their hands on the last few best-selling designs. She recounts stories of travels to dreary New York subways and boring outfits along the way, and how almost everyone’s arms were covered with dull accessories. Deciding to

break away from the expected, she took it upon herself to brighten everyone’s look, from Bahrain to New York, with designs that are best described as tastefully mischievous and whimsically humorous; designs that resonate with an emerging generation of Middle Eastern youth, one that embraces modernity with all its marvels, yet celebrates the local cultural customs at the same time.

Upon completing her studies in Interior and Spatial Design from the Chelsea College of Art and Design, and her master’s degree in Urban Design from the University College London, Muna began her career working for international interior design firm, DWP. From there, she proceeded to work on Bahrain’s Golden Lion award winning project, Reclaim, at the grand Venice Biennale.

From there, Muna saw no restrictions to her design abilities, as her passion encompassed more than one area of design, from print media to fashion

and lifestyle product design. Haraka arrives as an encapsulation of Muna’s views on both art and fashion in the form of a modern lifestyle brand inspired by a blend of local Bahraini culture immersed in a fast paced, modern world in the form of colorful watches, t-shirts, tote bags and accessories. Since its launch in May 2012, Haraka’s product lines include both men and women’s wear and lifestyle accessories.

Does fashion ‘make’ the person or does the person ‘make’ fashion?

I like to think that the person ‘makes’ fashion. Although sometimes trends come from influencers in fashion, but it takes a person’s individual style to make the trend their own. When people are comfortable, confident and wear what they want regardless of anyone’s opinions, they embody and exude their own personal style.

How would you describe your style?

For me, comfort is key; if you feel

comfortable in what you’re wearing, you automatically look good and that’s what matters. I like wearing looks that can go from day-to-night; because I’m so busy I often have to wear my outfit straight from work to an early dinner or a meeting. Accessories help me pull this off, so that’s one of the reasons I created, HARAKA watches and accessories.

Where do you get inspiration for your style?

I think street style and individual style play a big role in

how I dress. Also, there’s nothing better than people watching on the streets in fashion capital cities during fashion week!

What does it take to become a style innovator?

Style innovation for me, is not just coming up with new and different ideas but actually about making them happen.

You have to be able to spot different and exciting opportunities, be intuitive and insightful, pay attention to detail, but also be able to stay focused and have a well-planned, outcome-oriented nature.

What’s exciting right now in fashion?

The fact that right now there are no rules. Print goes on any print.

Monochrome is the epitome of luxury, and animal prints come out to play.

Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?

While I was doing my masters in London in Urban Design, I went to visit an architectural exhibition

by Zaha Hadid and saw one of her handbags for Louis Vuitton. She was the first to enlighten me that the lines

between architecture and fashion are blurred and the only difference is a matter of scale.

Who are your favorite emerging designers, and what is it that you love about them?

There are so many talented emerging designers in the Middle East now, that I find it incredibly hard to just name one. I love that they take risks, aren’t afraid to show the world their personal style and aren’t swayed by what’s ‘in’ at the moment.

What is the highlight of your ‘style’ career so far?

When I see people I don’t know wearing my products—that makes me happy.

Every fashionality has as a style obsession, what’s yours?

I’m obsessed with accessories! They can dress up and completely change any outfit.

Do you follow any fashion blogs?

If so, which would you recommend?

I do, but not religiously. In Bahrain, there are quite a few emerging local bloggers that have a great eye for fashion and mixing current trends, such as The Overdressed, Pretty Fashion Forward and Closet Jigsaw.

What item of clothing (if any) do you wish that people wore more often?

I wish people would accessorize more! The power of accessories to update or transform an outfit is definitely underrated. Also, hats. Can we please bring back hats for both men and women? I love classic movies and the characters were always wearing them.

To be stylish is to be fashionable.

True or False and why?

False. Style is within a person, where as fashion can be bought.

Shop Haraka’s latest collections at www.haraka.com, Stalk them (Their request, not ours!) on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter @myharaka.

Check out their tumblr blog at http://myharaka.tumblr.com.

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ALNOWAIR The science of smiling By bazaar staff

As a philosophy, most of us would probably contend that “Don’t Worry Be Happy,” Bobby McFerrin’s 1989 hit of the same name, probably only works when the times are good. In fact, when times are tough, it is only likely to further irk, rather than help.

But is their something to be said for forcing a smile when times are tough? Laugh though some of us do, there is proof that a positive outlook does actually positively affect the way that we feel, as well as our health overall. This is the belief that drives the aims that a new Kuwaiti non-profit organization intends to achieve: helping Kuwaitis be happier via a positive attitude.

Alnowair is a nonprofit initiative founded by Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali Al Sabah. They held their launch on the first ever International Day of Happiness on the 20th of March 2013.

The initiative, which is driven to spread positivity in Kuwait, was the first from the GCC to participate in the celebration of the International Day of Happiness as recognized by the United Nations in June 2012, and supported by 193 UN Member states and celebrated by millions of people around the world.

The initiative was launched through a 4-day exhibit held in a rundown building in Salmiya, where people were 52

led through an intended experience that happiness lays in the small details.

The invitees were proposed to give each other flowers, create collages together, write things that they are thankful for and share them with others, let go of a grudge or a worry, and many other such activities. Of the launch, Sheikha Intisar Salem Al Ali Al Sabah said, “The UN aims to inspire a 100 Million people through the International Day of Happiness and we hope to have at least 1 million of those from Kuwait”.

Alnowair, as an organization, is a 5-year initiative driven to spread positive attitudes in Kuwait through events, exhibitions, activities, seminars, workshops and campaigns. It plans to communicate simplified scientifically proven data about the benefits of a positive attitude towards life. They also plan to create a grass roots movement by engaging, enlightening and inspiring the youth of Kuwait through multiple programs, independent initiatives and projects. “We were told, smile and the world smiles at you. Science has now proved that proverb true” said Sheikha Intisar, gleaming with excitement about the initiative.

“Alnowair envisions inspiring people to be more positive through campaigns, social media, events, exhibitions and many other activities.

We plan to bring resources from the world over, and through proven methods and ideologies, connect the people of Kuwait with the experts on the field of happy living and positivity” Alnowair Campaign Manager Gaya Kruchlik said when quizzed about the initiative.

For the month of May, they are kicking things off with an Instagram based campaign called Bite2Smile. Here are the details…

Bite2Smile campaign: we are encouraging our followers and their friends to take a picture of themselves (or someone else), biting into a pencil and post it on their Instagram accounts.

You might wonder why bite into a pencil, well when you bite into a pencil the same facial muscles that you use for smiling get activated, hence you feel as though you are smiling.

The science: The Bite2Smile campaign is based on the “As If Theory” by Psychologist James Laird.

The theory states that when you ‘do’ something, then you experience the feelings that are normally associated with ‘doing’ that something. Like smiling can make you feel happy and frowning can make you feel sad. Hence, by acting as if you are happy or a certain type of person, you become happy or that certain type of person – and that

is what we call the “As If” principle.

The campaign: The campaign will have started by the time you are reading this and will last until the 15th of May. The contest: To make things interesting we have turned this activity into a contest, where people can post pictures and hashtag them at #bkeifibite2smile and the picture with the highest number of likes at the end of the month will win an amazing goodie bag.

The mission: We know that emotions cause us to behave in certain ways. Feeling happy makes you smile, and feeling sad makes you frown.

However, this commonsense view is incomplete and we want to educate people about it. Expressions (smile/ frown) don’t need to be the result of our emotions (happy/sad), even a fake smile has the power to make you happy and we want people to know this and practice it.

So peeps, you heard it hear first: fake it ‘til you make it, as proven by science.

We will be looking for your smiling mugs on their Instagram!

More information about Alnowair can be found on their website, www.alnowair.com or on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube channels @al_nowair.

CHRYSLER

bazaar apps APP-ocalypse Now! Top six apps trending this month.

HATER An app you love to hate called Hater, available currently on iPhone devices, that allows you to share everything, from traffic to bad service, and anything else that makes you unhappy. The social network for haters has a live-streaming feed of ‘hates’ from people you follow on the service as well as a built-in ‘Hater camera’ for sharing an image with the masses. The Hates can be shared anonymously on the service, or if you want to be really public about your hate you can share it on various social media websites.

REPIX Repix is a new photo-editing app stepping up from all other editing apps, available for iOS. It allows you customize your snapshots by ‘painting’ on them using pre-set brushes. The two major functions include regular adjustments and image remixing. The app comes with a number of built-in brush options, such as ‘cartoonize’ brush for turning a photo into a cartoon, and a charcoal/paint hybrid or even retro color effects. The effects come out less cheesy and more professional. The app has its own custom photo-flicker, which is bigger and has a separate section for your local pictures.

FUN RUN This app, currently available on both Android and iOS, is taking off throughout Kuwait. It is an online real-time multiplayer game that connects you with other players around the world. To remain a furry cute creature, and stay in the game, it is essential you finish the race before your friends. You are able to play with up to four players simultaneously. The game can be played with friends or meet new players locally or miles away. Currently has over 19 million players worldwide.

FLIPBOARD 2.0 Flipboard 2.0 is an updated version of the popular app which uses ‘flippable’ pages in a magazine-style grid. The new features include the ability to bookmark content, and have conversations around that content. Flipboard users can also create ‘magazine’ on the service that can be shared with friends. It is a familiar interface as the previous version but adds a more updated tone to the overall app. A great way to stay connected with worldwide news. It is launched in iPad, Android and iPhone devices.

THREAD Thread is a Caller ID app that replaces the Caller ID currently on your Android phone. Not only does it reveal the caller’s name, but also your last email exchange with that person, their last Facebook, Twitter posts and all of your latest texts with that individual. While you chat, information remains visible allowing you to quickly reference anything you might be talking about on the call. A great way to keep track of your history with a caller - so thread away!

SINGING CARL Ever wish you could magically turn your words into a song? Singing Carl takes your spoken words and turns them into your own danceworthy jam. Already in-built is the sensational worldwide hit ‘Gangam style’ the app is a popular pass time. Features include remixing songs, dance moves and a dance along that is guaranteed giggles for people of all ages. Carl dances along to your unique tune, and your finished masterpiece can be sent to friends from directly within the app (available on iOS only).

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source: www.mashable.com

ADOLFO

Goji's Pick A summery makeover!

By bazaar staff

bazaar picks:

Every discerning fashionista knows that she needs to go through her well researched to-do list to prep for the summer season. From searching Beirut’s pharmacies (yes, even the sketchy ones) for the latest tanning concoctions that deliver that instant bronze within ten minutes of sun exposure, hitting the gym to get that tummy in check, and shopping online for the perfect summer wardrobe, summer prep easily takes up the months of March, April and May, and will definitely last you until October.

Believe it or not, the goji team understands these woes, as the website has recently been on pause 56

as the much-loved online shopping haven underwent a facelift.

After a fashionable pause, gojiboutique is back with a hot new look!

Fashion is all about reinvention, and in listening to their valued customers’ requests, gojiboutique responded to all of their customer’s tips and demands to come back with a more social website, a more userfriendly experience, and a teeny tiny face-lift to meet all of their customer’s expectations and more!

With a homepage that’s a lot larger, there are plenty more boxes for more fashionable announcements. A brand new scroll bar has been implemented

at the bottom of the homepage so people can shop with reading all about goji’s announcements! In their previous layout, this neat new option wasn’t available. Customers have the option to view all the products of a specific category without having to scroll to the bottom of the page.

The goji team added more features along the top of their main page, such as animated banners to announce upcoming competitions.

As for the actual products up for grabs, images have become larger and with a faster zoom feature so clients can have a better visual for the products they select.

In staying in with ‘social’ trends, customers can now join and access gojiboutique’s social media channels through the site, so you’ll never get separated from checking out their latest introductions of many new designers along with your favorite ones. For mini fashionistas, a children’s line will also be arriving soon to the website!

gojiboutique’s new navigation experience is easy and as pleasant as a warm summer breeze, focused on delivering a constant flow of chic new arrivals on the homepage.

The front page is wider and has far more information on the latest arrivals, upcoming collections and collaborations, gojiINK issues, the Lookbooks, the photo-shoots, the offers and the hottest trends. We know that you’ll love the animated teaser with the latest additions!

So with one quick glance at the front page, one gets the most information of all things Goji, what’s new right now and what’s coming next to please those fashionable cravings. Combining all that with the new and improved checkout process, GOJIBOUTIQUE will become a true fixture on every fashionista’s shopping bookmark list! gojiboutique’s hot new look is only a chic click away, log on to www.gojiboutique.com.

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GECKO GARDENS Creating a unique landscape By bazaar staff

Patsy Al Zayed came to Kuwait for the first time approximately 26 years ago. A Florida girl at heart who feels as equally at home in the backwoods swamplands of Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s south as she does in the finest of Kuwait locals, she was immediately inspired to bring the esthetic feel of her home terrain to the desert of Kuwait. Since then, she has made a name for herself by transforming the homes of many influential Kuwaitis- one backyard at a time.

For this interview, a few of the 58

bazaar staff were invited to her own private rooftop garden to view the literal fruits of her labor. With a distinctly southern sweet-tea in hand she gave us a tour of the garden on an otherwise grey day, just before a dust storm came in. The first thing that one notices when entering her garden is the sheer scope of it.

One instantly feels overwhelmed with the knowledge that it would take days to see it all. Through the various nooks and pathways in each direction, passed the topiaries of various sizes and shapes, beneath

the overhead vines and over a few lily-pad-filled ponds, stocked with varieties of fish and turtles both, we arrive at a luxurious seating area to talk all things horticulture.

Quite simply: If her house were a showroom, you would have given her your business already.

However, now that her business is set to expand beyond the scope that such home-spun cordiality will allow for, you will have to either see her portfolio for proof or anxiously wait with the rest of us for the local storefront and showroom they are

soon to open in Lilly Complex in Shuwaikh. As a Landscape designer with three decades in the industry, she has made a name for herself by implementing her own unique elements and vision via water features, wood decking, addition of animals, as well as her expertise on plants in general. Particularly, it seems, the expertise of attempting to get various Plantae to adapt to the local climate. She speaks of the process of draining out or downing of plantsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roots with the casualness of somebody pulling out meat from

the freezer to defrost. She knows plants and flowers, she knows what they need, and she knows how to blend them seamlessly to create the larger eco-system that you may only be able to see in your head. Lastly, she is happy to share this magic.

They are currently in the process of becoming a fully operational business with several different departments to meet your indoor and outdoor landscaping needs. The first is her tried and true, landscape design. In this capacity, they are a one-stop shop for everything that

your project would need. Want a Koi pond reminiscent of a Japanese garden with plenty of foliage around it? No problem. Prefer bougainvillea draping over a third floor building down to the rock garden below for a Mediterranean feel? Done. How about a full-fledged faux mountain in the backyard where your garage is currently standing (and all the corresponding details of rebuilding said garage somewhere else)? She has done that too! Even the briefest of conversations with her show that this is where her passion truly lies: in

making her customersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dream home become reality by being involved in every level of the landscaping process. From concept, design, plant choice, installation, and if need bemaintenance as well, she is about as hands-on as it gets.

One other interesting point of note is that while they also do indoor atriums, terrariums, and greenhouse construction, they recognize these are not for everyone. Some people wish their nature and animal life to be more confined than that. As such, they also have an entire aquarium

arm of the business to suit your needs. With everything from custom built coral reefs and underwater seascapes, they say that the sky is the limit in this regard. They also do all installation and maintenance here too if needed.

While we all eagerly anticipate the opening of her storefront soon, you may want to give her a call early, before they get too busy to take your call.

Gecko Gardens can be reached by phone at 9933 8221 or via email, Geckogardensq8@gmail.com.

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THE REPLACEMENT SOUS-CHEF Almost 100 years in and the KitchenAid Mixer is still the king of the kitchen.

By bazaar staff

It was epic. However, I had high expectations. Having listened to friends raving about their experiences with the ‘’brand the professional chefs use’’ for years, I knew this was something I had to own. Luckily I was given the opportunity to use a KitchenAid Artisan 4.8L…and I will never look back.

The KitchenAid Artisan has striking looks: retro, but strangely timeless.

Coming in a range of 25 colors with names like “Crystal Blue,” “Candy Apple Red,” and “Frosted Pearl White,” it will complement any décor and be the centerpiece of your dream kitchen.

Timeless, is an understatement. Having been manufactured since 1919, these mixers, in the original Bowl-Lift and the newer Flip-Top Stand Mixers, have been perfected through years of craftsmanship. To maintain quality, they are still assembled where they originally were in Greenville Ohio, USA. The mixer is solid, all-metal construction, and comes standard 60

with a flat beater for mixing most cake batters and cookie dough, a balloon whisk for adding fluff to scrambled eggs and meringues, and a dough hook for making artisan breads. Due to the fact that there are no plastic components in this appliance, there is very little chance anything will break.

As evidence of the quality engineering, this stand mixer’s transmission uses a direct drive motion, meaning that there is no temperamental pulley system within the unit, which is one less thing that can wear out. Direct drive transmissions are more often found in commercial-grade mixers, which add to the durability of the KitchenAid, a further example of why this is the professional chefs’ mixers of choice.

The KitchenAid Artisan range also comes with an auto shut-off feature, meaning even if it gets a large workout whilst preparing large batches of bread, for example, and the motor gets up to potentially damaging

temperatures, the unit will shut itself off. This is an important safety feature if you are not paying close attention while being distracted by other food preparation tasks, or let’s be honest, by that Instagram photo of last night’s dinner your friend just posted.

However, do not let the name fool you. This is not just a mixer. With a multi-purpose attachment hub and a range of 12 attachments this machine can turn into everything you need to entertain in a fraction of the usual time.

Interestingly enough, even the original attachments will fit any modern KitchenAid model of stand mixer.

Pasta-making, Mincing, Juicing and other useful attachments mean that if you are looking for a small army of help in your kitchen, this machine will be your full arsenal.

Admittedly, I am not the most natural of cooks, my husband will attest to this. I have been known to burn eggs and turn out cakes more suitable for doorstops than

dinner plates. With this in mind, I purposefully set myself a major culinary challenge; the notoriously tricky cinnamon Brioche. This recipe first used the flat beater to combine the dry ingredients before switching to the dough-hook to tirelessly knead the Brioche mixture and combine the requisite 180g of butter; typically the point of failure for both chef and mixer. First impressions this machine is very easy to operate, with a tilt-head design allowing easy access to the bowl and beater. The 10-speed control paired with the included splash guard means you do not get any flying flour or batter on your walls or face. Testament to the build quality it runs very smooth and quietly, even under the heavy load of kneading dough. Thirty minutes and one, easy to clean, dishwasher safe, mixing bowl later, the Brioche dough was ready to rest overnight before baking fresh the following morning. The outcome was amazing; light and fluffy buttery goodness which lasted about five minutes before being demolished by the rest of my fellow bazaarites.

Has the KitchenAid made me a better baker? Only time will tell, but it’s looking very promising. After all, with over ninety years in the business, they must be doing something right.

Since I embarked on this review, the bazaar team has been enjoying the freshly baked goods such as Brioche, lemon cake, and Banoffee pies, in the office most mornings. Hmmm…maybe I should work on that treadmill review?

KitchenAid mixers and other KitchenAid products are available in Kuwait through Mabrook Hotel Supplies (showroom in Shuweikh) or available in Williams-Sonoma, Grand Avenue – The Avenues. You can contact them on 2482 8530 or for more information on their products visit: www.facebook.com/kitchenaid.kuwait or www.kitchenaid.com.

A couple of recipes will also be available on www.bazaar-magazine.com.

MENBUR

A WHOLE NEW GALAXY

Samsung and Wataniya team up to launch the Galaxy S4 By bazaar staff

These days, phones almost operate as an extension of ourselves; their ability to keep us connected to loved-ones, to business networks and contacts, and our ever-increasing reliance on the information they provide to us is enough to make it feel like an added limb. With each year revealing a new model and mode, like clockwork, many have been eagerly anticipating the next launch from the Samsung Galaxy series; in walks the Samsung Galaxy S4.

By the time you read this Samsung will have officially released the S4 to all the normal fanfare you would expect from the latest, hottest gadget.

Here in the press offices, we relish the extra ten seconds we get to play with these new toys before they hit the street. So here, the verdict is already in: as the fourth generation of Samsung smartphone, the new S4 comes packed full of ALL the innovative features and functions you would expect, but with enough extra features to keep you entertained.

The sleek design additionally helps to keep that intangible and cool tactile feeling of holding the future in your hands.

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One of the key features that needs to be addressed here is the ability to multi-task. Anyone, who has ever been mid-call hung-up on as the person on the other end switched to something else or, worse- been in one app attempting to switch to another, only to have the whole thing freeze up on you, knows how important this is. They bill it as the ultimate productivity device, and I think this may be well earned as it is designed with the multi-tasker in mind. You can call a friend, answer the phone, preview emails and control videos without even touching the phone—for starters.

With the Smart Call Accept feature, you can answer the phone and have it turn on the speakerphone with the wave of a hand. Additionally, when you connect your Samsung Galaxy S4 to your home entertainment system, it can suggest TV programs based on what you like. You can also access your personal HomeSync system from all devices and remotely share with friends and family.

The interactivity between devices is one of the big things about this phone that clearly separates this from others and, thus, keeps you more

connected. You and your friends can share screens as well as explore each other’s favorite music, files, and games. The Samsung Galaxy S4 not only overcomes barriers of distance but also breaks down language barriers via its translator chat function. For those of you expats out there, you know how often this can come in handy!

It can additionally help you achieve your fitness goals by monitoring your fitness levels during workouts and throughout the day. It also cares for your general health with sensors that automatically adjust the display and volume – depending on how you are using it. Samsung’s new S Health app monitors how much you’ve walked, how many calories you’ve burned, and what you’ve eaten.

Now that everybody’s favorite and most used camera is the phone itself, we should discuss camera functions; here again you will not be let done by all the innovation that has gone into this. First off, it’s the absolute prerequisite to talk megapixels, that previously unknown vernacular of measurement that now is as commonplace as pie. This one is 13MP! DID you hear that, world? 13! I remember when having an oversized camera that could produce 4MP was a really big deal. Either people are going to have to start getting prettier or we are going to have to start taking pictures from further away. But, I digress, where were we-yes, innovation: every picture you take on the Samsung Galaxy S4 can come with sound, thus offering a soundtrack to that photo you took so you no longer have to sing at it late at night whilst inhaling Cheetos and crying over love lost. Now you can remember what was said, played, and heard, not just what it looked like. It adds another layer of excitement to help you relive and share every moment of each picture much more vividly. You can also now capture the ‘I was there’ moments of your life by simultaneously shooting with the front and rear cameras, using their “dual shot” technology.

For those who are in the market for a new phone with innovative features that seem a world-if not a galaxy(!)- a way from the completion, the S4 is a strong standout. With more ways to seamlessly meld into your life, as smart technology should, and as the modern consumer demands—you can’t go wrong here!

In partnership with Wataniya and Samsung, keep an eye out for bazaar’s S4 GIVEAWAY! The new Samsung Galaxy S4 is available through Wataniya or Fono stores. Visit any Wataniya or Fono Store today. Wataniya Customers can get the free Self Care Mobile App for their Android devices at PlayStore. For more information about Wataniya products and services visit www.wataniya.com.

DESTINATION MATERNITY

bazaar fitness

THE BICYCLE WHEEL

By Mike Campbell

“I was going to drown, then I started swimming. I was going down, then I started winning” ~ The Sound.

Like embarking on any journey, an adventure into the world of fitness can be challenging. To avoid any dangers such as getting lost in the sea of the latest dieting trends, equipment, supplements, training programs, getting a flat tire, or losing your paddle, you need a suitable map and a great guide. Without a plan and the right guidance you can quickly feel engulfed, demotivated, and at worst become injured, when you start training.

We are all so very different. It is nearly impossible to successfully reach your goals using a generic training program. A qualified coach must consider your nervous system, digestive system and hormonal system (think software) when aiming to improve the physical body including the muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and cartilage (think hardware). It’s not just ‘jump on the treadmill and run’ to get in shape. That may work for six weeks, but after that you’re in trouble.

Let’s start with the concept of the bicycle wheel. If the spokes of the wheel are buckled or twisted you can be assured your bike’s going to crash sooner or later. It’s the same with your body.

Any imbalance in the muscles around the spine leads to abnormal stress on the spine. Makes sense really. If your goal is to get leaner, run faster or lift more, then it’s going to be difficult to attain those goals if you can’t do the basic movement patterns in a pain free manner.

Ideally everyone should comfortably complete the basic human movement patterns which include a full range squat, a lunge, a twist, a bend and a push. A person’s gait (walk, run or jog) should be normal. Once you can move efficiently you can load these movement patterns and then the fun begins.

So if your body is the wheel, then what does it take to build a resilient wheel?

1. Great materials (food, sleep and water) 2. Great mechanic (your personal trainer or coach) 3. Great plan (an exercise program based on an evaluation and assessment) What do I eat? Paleo, Southbeach, Atkins, or the Chalet diet? To have breakfast or 64

to fast? Do I need supplements? Should a female lift heavy weights? How often do I train? Everyone is unique, and I would encourage you to experiment with one option at a time and see if it works for you.

The following suggestions will at least improve your body composition (read less body fat) enabling you to move with less pain, feel better and perform as an athlete.

Great Materials • Eat lots of vegetables. Then eat some more. There is nothing wrong with vegetables with every meal • If you’re thirsty, you are dehydrated. Drink water. We live in Kuwait - so drink more water • Try and have protein with every meal. You will sleep better, have improved energy, feel fuller and generally have an improved mood • Eat colorful fruit, but do not over-eat them • Sugar is EVIL • Energy drinks are the evil brother of sugar, so leave them on the shelf • Carbs are good, but stay away from poor choices, like processed carbs • Coffee before training, but not after 5pm • Supplements aid great nutrition. Get your basic nutrition sorted first • If you can catch it, grow it or pick it from a tree or plant, then it’s probably going to be good for you. If the ingredients were not around when your grandparents were children, then avoid them • Try and sleep before midnight and aim for uninterrupted sleep. Your body needs that sleep to repair, both physically and mentally • Manage your stress. Stress kills - full stop.

A Great Mechanic • Acquire a qualified and experienced coach or trainer. He or she may not have all the answers, but ensure they are confident in referring you to someone who does when they don’t • They must deliver results, and if possible make it an enjoyable experience, whilst educating you.

A Great Plan • Cardio. Ditch the 60-minute treadmill walks and get sprinting. Think interval training. Use rowing machines, drag sleds or push the prowler. Get your heart rate up • Pick heavy objects up. Lift them over your head or carry them for a set distance or time • Go to Yoga. Improve your mobility • Start weight training. Learn the Olympic lifts • Climb a rope or use that sledge hammer on that tractor tire. Try swinging a kettlebell and watch your posture improve along with the drop in clothing size.

• Have a training program, and change it every 4 to 6 sessions • Perform your own body maintenance. Think foam rollers, bands and tennis balls.

• Manipulate the reps, sets, rest time, tempo and weight in each exercise • Set realistic goals. Set them by the day and week • Have an assessment and constantly check them every 4 weeks.

Remember we will always have ups and downs in life, as we will in training. Not every session results in a personal best or an extra centimeter off the waist. Often we just have to front up and get the job done. But progress is still progress, even when it is slow.

Eat well, sleep well, drink water, decrease your stress, set goals and train efficiently.

Mike Campbell is the GM and Co Founder of Inspire Pure Fitness.

For further information please email info@inspirekw.com or jane@inspirekw.com or visit www.inspirekw.com.

‫‪PULL & BEAR‬‬ ‫الفنار مول ‪25720189 /‬‬ ‫الكوت مول ‪23930206 /‬‬ ‫األفنيوز مول ‪22597020 /‬‬ ‫مارينا مول ‪22244550 /‬‬

VERSUS BY VERSACE CAFFÉ Where Italian couture meets fine dining By bazaar staff

The house of Versace, renowned for its riveting impact in the couture world, takes on the culinary realm in full Versace glamour. Mind you, the term Versace no longer resonates as a noun, yet takes on a descriptive adjective instead.

I’ve personally described a design, print, or style, as ‘Versace’ countless of times, for this house of fashion has influenced various facets of our modern lifestyle. Thus, creating a gastronomic venture doesn’t stand short of being portrayed as Italian design for the avid gourmand.

Recently opening at Al-Hamra Luxury Center, Versus by Versace Caffé boldly stands as the first of its kind in the Middle East, and is inspired by the swanky Shanghai branch. I say boldly, as it is an immaculate ode to the 66

designer’s attitude. Exciting, rich and stylishly ahead of its time. Personally, I would have loved to be an observer while this atelier’s creative team whipped up the design concept for Versus by Versace Caffé. The final concept is a visually uplifting and exhilarating presentation in fiery reds.

Elements of the signature geometric patterns are evident throughout in shades of muted silver, and rouge is seen via the supple leather seats, patent lacquered walls, the ceiling and floors, captivating passersby to embrace its fashionable charms.

As we sat down, we were welcomed by impeccable hospitality.

The staff, professionally trained through a program too rigorous here to get into, rests firmly on the concept of the anticipation of a guests needs.

With this innate sense of hospitality in mind, we dive in, where proof is in the details. The complimentary bread brought soon after you sit down, is offered with deliciously aged Parmesan cheese and olive oil dip, prepared right in front of you—just the perfect beginning to the fine dining experience to come ahead.

Before we embark on sampling all of this Caffé’s Italian delicacies, a worthy point of note is the presentation in which these dishes arrived. Fashioned to please the eye, your taste buds are already enthused simply by observing the tasteful presentation of the dishes.

For starters we were served, three different choices of various light and airy salads. The Gamberi di Avocado salad with rocca, goat cheese and balsamic vinegar was superb.

We were also spoiled with colorful Mocktails that are without doubt some of the best Kuwait has to offer.

The Rock-chick made my day. It offers mint, berries, lemon juice and peach syrup, which sends your senses to the beach. The tropical vibes infused with fresh fruits that cleanse the palette before you dive in to the delicacies, are just what the doctor ordered for a hot Kuwaiti day.

Given that the sumptuous dishes at Versus by Versace Caffé are all made from scratch and freshly prepared, we were quite eager to try their star plate of seafood risotto with king prawns, mussels, and shaved Parmesan. If you have ever had prawns so plump as to almost burst, than you will understand the decadence of this dish. If you would rather opt for other

types of pasta, we highly recommend the fettuccini with light cream sauce and mushrooms. The stuffed chicken with Parmesan cheese and bread filling served with potato cake and grilled baby zucchini was also a strong standout that is as filling as it is delicious. A short while into our meal, Mr. Jad Dib, the manager, joined us and recommended some of his favorite dishes from the menu, to which we whole-heartedly agreed. Starting with the ‘killer’ (as he put it), which consisted of shrimp, cream sauce, asparagus and broccoli that tasted exquisite, we loved the tenderness of the shrimp, along with that ‘killer’ sauce that expertly complemented the entire dish. Another favorite, that is to die for, is the ravioli stuffed with spinach and ricotta cheese with cherry

tomatoes and topped with mint leaf.

Although the portions are light, the main courses manage to simlutaneouly be surprisingly filling.

Still, there’s always room for desserts in our book, especially where the Caffé is concerned. You will be faced with the debatable choice between red fruit or white chocolate fondue served with vanilla ice cream. Or, if you’re steering away from the chocolate, the Caffé offers versatile desserts ranging from the apple crumble that is sweet yet light and refreshing, to a deliciously dreamy cheesecake.

If a huge selection of tea and coffees to accompany your dessert is just what you need than you will be happy with the options. First off: Lavazza coffee. If you don’t know about it, go find out-it is worth the

effort. Also, for the tea drinkers out there, you may indulge in jasmine, green, or an English breakfast blend.

The list is endless, as the waiters will bring out the huge black box filled with various teas.

Although the décor indoors oozes glamour to the N’th degree, the outdoor space is classy, wide open, and placed strategically fountain-side. Suddenly, an otherwise normal Kuwait city street turns into a romantic riverside dining experience almost representative of the Seine or the Thames. Of course this is a bit of a liberty, but the nearby fountain and ambiance is truly that unique at nightfall, when lit up with gleaming lights, making this the “it” spot for those looking for a different ambience than you can get elsewhere in the city.

Versus by Versace Caffé will also soon be launching their breakfast menu items. Based on our dining experience, this scrumptious preview leads one to believe that this will be a known breakfast venture in no time.

From waffles with various versions of berry compote, to Nutella topped pancakes and several variations of French Toast, there is a good chance you may soon need reservations even for breakfast! Lastly, the Lavazza coffee that they serve day or night could in of itself, be reason enough to stop by, whether meeting with friends or just out shopping.

For reservations at Versus by Versace Caffé, please call 2227 0330, and find them on Facebook: Versus Versace Caffé Kuwait.

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HOOP MOUNTAIN A basketball camp brought to you by NBA stars By bazaar staff

It is, by now, a tried and tested statement that practice makes perfect. So what happens when you enhance your basketball practice with the professional hoop talents of NBA players and coaches? Hoop Mountain!

With the continued rise of the popularity of Basketball in Kuwait, Hoop Mountain provides a basketball camp that brings a new wave of hope, skills, and tangibility to the basketball dreams of our local youth.

Hoop Mountain’s aim is to offer kids in Kuwait a chance to learn from 68

top-notch coaches in order to aid in getting their skills and talent to a level that is compatible with international basketball players. At the recent launch event for the camp, Adam Harrington, former NBA player, gave us some insight into Hoop Mountain in this special interview: Tell me about the history of Hoop Mountain?

Co-founders Steven Gibbs and Matt Spencer established Hoop Mountain in 1985. Starting with humble roots as a regional high school basketball magazine, it was not long before it turned into a full-fledged basketball

camp. Now, 28 short years later, it has expanded to basketball camps and tournaments across the continental united states.

We are proud to have NBA coaches such as Umass Lowell and Stan Van Gundy as well as NBA players as varied as Rick Brunson, Andre Drummond and Jeff Adrien. We recently had the Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau spend time with the staff at Hoop Mountain as well. We strive to give our coaches and participants at Hoop Mountain the best in terms of coaching and training.

Tell us your history with basketball?

I have been playing basketball since I was 6 years old and I always had this dream to play in the NBA one day.

Although it was a lot of hard work and dedication, it eventually paid off when I got to play on full scholarship for both NC State and Auburn University. My ultimate dream was achieved when I played in the NBA with the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets. Later I even went on to play professionally throughout Europe for six years. I eventually retired in 2010 to start the Jill E. Harrington Hanzalik Foundation in my late sister’s honor. I also started my own personal basketball skills development business about this time.

When did you get involved with Hoop Mountain?

I have been familiar with Hoop Mountain for as long as I can remember. In fact, all through my childhood these camps were run in my home area, so I am very familiar with them. So, in 2012, when I was asked to be part of Hoop Mountain, I had already felt a strong connection to the brand and their values. My continued experience with their training camps since that time has progressed in many facets, including, most recently, the inception of Hoop Mountain Kuwait.

Why Kuwait?

We want to bring Americanorganized basketball to Kuwait, because we feel it combines the necessary skills for development and success including both nutrition, and fitness. We want to bring creativity and

innovation to Kuwaiti basketball that can result in a higher caliber of play.

Is your role coaching? If so: to what degree?

I am the lead coach with Hoop Mountain Kuwait. I will be overseeing two American coaches who will be working the camp full-time locally. I will be in Kuwait for two-week intervals throughout the year. I will also be developing and writing the curriculum for the program and will additionally play the role of strategic advisor to the Hoop Mountain Kuwait administration.

Who are your role models?

It’s important to have good coaches in your life. My role models have been my parents first and my coaches. Good coaches don’t just give you advice on physical training and sports tips, they give you life lessons that you can take away and practice.

Tell us about the transition from player to ambassador of the sport?

This transition has been easier than I thought. I loved playing basketball professionally and you will never be able to replace that experience.

However, when I got into training kids in basketball and running my sister’s foundation (an organization that supports kids chasing their dreams), it became such a rewarding experience.

I am honored be able to give back. The ability to take basketball knowledge that I have and share it with kids is great. It builds their confidence and makes them successful both on and off the court!

What is your future plans with basketball?

I plan to continue using basketball as a platform to teach young boys and girls around the world life-skills and how you can use them to accomplish many things in your life. Most importantly, I want to teach them that dreams do come true. I love basketball and I pray that I can continue to be involved with the sport my whole life. It’s the greatest job in the world!

For more information on Hoop Mountain Kuwait visit: www.hoopmountain.com/kuwait.

SWATCH

closet Bibi

THE 10 COMMANDMENTS OF SUMMER

By Bibi Al-Falah

Finally! Our beloved summertime has returned, bringing all of the lovely laid-back beauty rituals with it. Beachy waves are back and so is the oh-so-gorgeous glowing tan. As our visas are processed and we get ready to pack our bags and jet away, don’t forget that summertime also happens to be the harshest on our hair and skin. If you simply follow these 10 beauty commandments, you can kiss your worries goodbye with a perfectly glossy pink lip.

1. Thou Shalt Wear SPF I cannot stress this enough - unless you want to look like a leather bag by 40 then SPF is an absolute MUST! If your skin tone is olive or darker then you can get away with a lower SPF like 20, if you are lighter skinned then do not wear anything less that SPF 35. Contrary to popular belief this does NOT stop you from getting a tan. Feel free to wear your favorite tanning lotion over it, just make sure the base protection is there. Put your sunscreen on at least 15 minutes BEFORE you are actually in the sun, it needs time to be effective. Also, if you are planning on being in the sun all day then a single application simply isn’t enough, REAPPLY! Don’t forget to get it on your hands and neck as these are sensitive and often neglected areas. Also grab the Labello SPF lip balm for a perfectly protected pout.

2. Thou Shalt Love Thy Hair The best thing you could ever do while tanning is put oil in your hair. I recently discovered a wonderful hair oil at Sultan by the brand Parachute (this brand is usually found in all Co-ops). It is a mixture of sesame, olive, almond and coconut oil. I have been using it at home half an hour before shampooing but its moisturizing effects would be amplified during a day in the sun.

3. Thou Shalt Exfoliate Your skin experiences much more trauma in the summer months with drying out and heat exposure so make sure to keep it fresh by using your favorite exfoliator especially on your legs and arms at least once a week. I absolutely love all of the Body Shop exfoliating scrubs. Soap & Glory (available at Boots) also makes a nice scrub.

4. Thou Shalt Get Pedicures 70

Since you will probably be wearing sandals more often than not, make sure you get a pedicure at least once every two weeks to keep your little toes in top shape. Summer is the time when you can go crazy with colors, especially on your feet. Pick refreshing shades like watermelon pink and mint green.

5. Thou Shalt Fake Tan Fake it till you make it! Our bodies always tan faster than our faces. Instead of fighting this natural color darkening process by torturing your face with too much sun exposure, use your favorite gradual tanner or bronzer on your face to avoid sun damage. I love the St Tropez beauty line, which is famous for selftanners. I have yet to find it in Kuwait but many different brands make similar tanners that give you all the color without the damage. I would recommend visiting Sephora to find a great brand that is worth investing in.

6. Thou Shalt Moisturize Your body needs as much care as your face so take an extra few minutes every day to apply lotion after showering - your skin will thank you later.

7. Thou Shalt Drink Water The best way to hydrate comes from within. We are all aware how important water consumption is, but it is especially important in the summer when dehydration gets the best of us. Chug away!

8. Thou Shalt Swim Swimming is the number one exercise recommended by doctors as it is so beneficial for your joints and yet works all of your muscles in the most effective way. Instead of just being a beach staple, take several breaks to dip in the pool or sea for a total body workout.

9. Thou Shalt Pack Light Traveling overseas? You don’t need 40 dresses and 15 pairs of shoes. Pack plenty of neutral and light pieces that go together and have fun with your accessories. The last thing you need is to go shopping then worry about how you will fit everything back into that suitcase, so save some room!

10. Thou Shalt Relax!

Enjoy yourself and never stop appreciating those simple moments in life when you can just take a deep breath and smile.

MOSAIC

THINK TANK KUWAIT New learning possibilities

By M. K. Al Khalaf

As most stories might begin with “once upon a time”, I’m going to start mine by saying “for many and many times in the past.” I say this because I’ve searched for something that I was yet to find until I had created myself. To concisely introduce myself, I’m a married man with two beautiful blessings as daughters, and I love self-development.

Whether investing my time in reading books, watching tutorial videos, or taking courses at different training centers, throughout my entire educational journey, I’ve always searched for a certain method of learning, a specific process of acquiring knowledge that I never found.

My learning process is considered as what is commonly known as a kinesthetic learner, which is someone who learns better by doing and applying what they learn. There are a few different learning methods, and each person has their strong suit in 72

which they process or learn something new. I’ve noticed that many people enjoy practical learning, and that’s exactly what I’ve always looked for at these different training centers.

I’ve always wanted to apply what I had learned, and not just learn the environment of a program alone, for instance such as Adobe Photoshop.

Whereas, I’ve wanted to learn how to apply what I learn as I’m learning it. This is what finally led me towards deciding to open up my own training center and do just that—facilitate an environment that nurtures the practical learning process.

I’m currently the proud owner of the Think Tank training center, which allows people to apply what they learn on the spot, and ignites their creativity.

We don’t simply teach people what a specific tool does, instead we teach people how to think and view the world through the eyes of a programmer

or an artist. Not only does this reinvent the way we process knowledge, this creatively feeds the mind, thought process, and positively trickled down to live application.

Instead of having a teacher simply relay any given information via a presentation, I looked for and hired people who are skilled in what they do, passionate about it, and have done their own projects in the past. That way, they’d be able to convey the information out of experience rather than just going by the book. These people can be considered as the expert consultants of a class, whereas the teaching environment is friendly and interactive, leading to a casual, conversation-like class atmosphere. In order to inspire attendees into thinking creatively and wanting to learn more, they are shown past projects that have been done by the expert, and during the period of their course, attendees will be able to create their own projects.

Classes are allocated a maximum of 8 students at a time, and this is implemented so that each student receives one-on-one time with an expert, taking advantage of the 2-hour classes. This way, every student can have the time and freedom to ask questions, apply what they learned without limitations, and get more attention from the expert.

One of the major issues that I realized with my team of trainers is that a lot of people want to learn something but don’t know where to start. Therefore, I decided to provide these starting points for people, and allow them to choose their own path in the creative career they like the most. This means that attendees will be able to go into a foundation course, and truly understand what is required for the next step, or what is to come. For example, some people want to become mobile app developers, but they don’t know where to start or which programming language to choose, etc. What the course does for them is clarify all of that, and give them the keys to unopened doors in their future path of becoming mobile programmers, so they can choose which specific doors to unlock.

Graduates of Think Tank will be capable of going on to the next step in their creative career and be fully confident with the proper knowledge and creative thinking that they need. Think Tank is not only about helping students learn the tools, but also having the experience and proper mindset to go ahead and further develop their careers.

For more information, please visit www.thinknat. com.kw, follow them on Twitter @Thinktankq8, and Facebook.com/thinktankq8. The Think Tank Institute is located in Kuwait City on Abdullah Al Mubarak Street in Star Tower, 3rd floor. Please call 2295 8180 for their latest course schedules.

CROCS

2530-9670/1 Discovery Mall: 2291-3631 Al-Kout Mall: 2393-0108 Marina Mall: 2224-4814 Airport Mall: 2431-6334 Liwan Mall: 2221-0127 Mubarkiya: 2246-1823 Sama Sulaibikhat: 2221-6086 The Avenues: 22200507 Crocs Kuwait

Artist of the month

THE SOUND OF COCO By bazaar staff

Coco is an eclectic singer and songwriter inspired by colorful cultural backgrounds and riveting experiences. Born in Venezuela with a Lebanese origin, and having lived between the Middle East and United States, Coco’s music is reflective of a worldly soul that embraces myriad cultures and the belief that music is truly universal and should always inspire.

With an upbringing that took her from Venezuela, to Kuwait and the Middle East, Coco’s powerful voice carries with it the sound and style of global fusion.

She creates her music from experimenting with different genres of music with great flexibility; imagine an east/west crossroads where house and Latin and jazz meet pop R&B. From recent releases like the house sensation “Runaway”, alongside local talent Fuad Murad, and the reggae inspired “I want you” one begins to understand Coco’s ability to deliver fantastic inspired tunes with her exhilarating voice.

Whatever Coco feels she writes. With an education and career in Music Therapy, Coco’s experiences in life elevate her music to cross all cultural differences, leaving listeners blissfully pleased and uplifted.

Having moved to Kuwait as a young 10-year-old, she discovered and began practicing her passion for music through various outlets such as the school choir, musical organizations, and dance classes like ballet and contemporary dance.

This is where her talent for captivating audiences with her brilliant voice and lively personality began to take form, giving the artist a sense of direction and satisfaction from performing on stage. Since then, Coco participated in endless performances on stage whenever an opportunity arose, as she cherished 74

interacting with audiences at such a young age.

Her main influences growing up include Mariah Carey, Fairuz, Ella Fitzgerald, Jill Scott and Celia Cruz. Coco pursued her musical studies at the Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, where she achieved a degree in music therapy and vocal performance. A deeply empathetic person who believes in the healing power of music, Coco instantly relates to her audiences, making her performances as unforgettable as her transient voice.

After a period of travelling and working in the Middle East, and performing as part of a Latin fusion band in Lebanon, Coco currently resides and works in Kuwait with children with special needs as a continuation of her calling to better the lives of those in need with music. Her specialty in music therapy allows Coco to work with children with special needs, people suffering from terminal illnesses or depression, and utilizing her musical talent in the process instantly allows her clients to feel at ease, allowing the power of music to better their lives in the deepest of ways.

Since her return to the Middle East, Coco has been regularly performing between Kuwait and Beirut, and she is currently working on her first album with a group of talented local producers. Staying true to her soulful voice and eclectic sound, Coco is also collaborating with a variety of artists specialized in different genres to communicate her global sound. From Latin, house and lounge musical styles, to jazz and Rhythm and Blues, Coco’s moving vocals accommodate different genres effortlessly, giving her the flexibility to communicate a musical message that is beautifully rare and unmatched.

How did your musical journey begin?

My musical journey began since I was 10 years old, when my choir teacher discovered that I had a gift for singing. The teacher encouraged me to take part in plays and musical performances within the school. My parents supported my passion and placed me in private vocal lessons.

What/Who inspires you to write your music and lyrics?

What inspires me to write are my personal experiences and specific events that occur in my surroundings, listening to meaningful and unique lyrics that move me and encourage me to write. Some inspirations include: Lauryn Hill, Jill Scott and currently Justin Timberlake’s new album!

Is the final sound of a musical track an individual or group effort?

The final sound of my tracks is generally a group effort. Details on sound qualities, vocal/instrumental effects, and types of chords that could add so much more elements to the music are some examples of what other musicians suggest and incorporate into my music.

Who/What in your early beginnings influenced your music?

My music is influenced by a variety of artists, personal experiences, and support from family members and friends.

In your opinion, what is the hardest challenge you face in your musical journey?

My biggest challenge in this journey is not having a set record label and production team to support and aid me in the making of my music to ease and speed up the process. But I’m getting there, slowly but surely!

How has the Middle Eastern world reacted to your sound?

So far I am blessed to be admired and supported in the Middle East, especially in Kuwait and Lebanon. I’m always asked, “When is the album coming out?”

Do you feel that music should always serve a specific purpose?

Music’s purpose is to enrich the soul and bring life, beauty, and appreciation to our existence. Music can have different purposes whether to express one’s emotions, exercise, reduce depression, stress, and anxiety, enhance social relations, etc. Being a Music Therapist as well as a vocalist, I always keep in mind, “what is the purpose of this song and its effect on myself and/or others?”

What are some of your favorite tracks, and why?

This is tough question because I am moved by a wide range of styles and artists such as: Amel Larrieux “Get up”, Jill Scott “Love Rain” , Stevie Wonder “Ribbon in the Sky”, Ella Fitzgerald “Funny Valentine”, Celia Cruz, Fairuz “Biktub Ismak”, La India, Um Koulthoum, and currently I am in love with Justin Timberlake’s new song “Strawberry Bubblegum” Anything that moves me emotionally and physically I am immediately drawn to.

What would you like to accomplish in the future?

In the near future I would like to release my full album in Kuwait and all around the Middle East, then expose it within Europe and the United States. I would also like to organize my own performance here in Kuwait some time this year.

For more information visit www.facebook.com/cocomusicbeat.

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Q8 CON? Is Kuwait ready for a film & comic convention?

By Jaye Sonia

I want to ask bazaar readers a simple question: Do you think Kuwait is ready for its very own comic & film convention?

A few months ago, two of the gentlemen – Meshari and Rashed – behind Q8 Con (www.facebook.com/ Q8Con) approached me about my prior involvement with U.S. gaming conventions (see bazaar, October 2011).

As a long time gamer, seasoned game designer, comic fan, writer, and all-around super-nerd, it didn’t surprise me – people around here sort of know I’m a fan. And while I know there are fans in Kuwait, I wasn’t sure if Kuwait was even ready for its very own convention. These two gentlemen, however, think so. So, they set out to convince me.

Our initial meeting was brief, but they were excited – you could feel it in the room, too! They had seen what was going on down in Dubai at the Middle Eastern Film and Comic Convention (www. mefcc.com/) and wanted to make that part of Kuwait’s lineage, too. They kept telling me, “Kuwait is just as passionate about comics and we need this here.” Yet, having never been down to Dubai for this 76

event, I was at a loss. Sure, most of us are passionate about our hobbies, but was Dubai’s take on this a good model?

As I was planning on being in Dubai for the weekend anyway, I decided to grab tickets for Friday and head down to the Dubai International Marina to check out the event. Keep in mind that I wasn’t going just as a fan. I was going to see how Dubai had organized their event, with a single question in my mind, “can Kuwait do this?”

I elected to pick up my day pass at the event, so I was immediately pleased to discover I wouldn’t have a long wait. Better still, security and staff were polite and accommodating. There wasn’t much I had to ask for. When I finally cleared security and entered the event, I was immediately funneled into the air conditioning of the comic book and dealer room. The booths were everything I’d expect from an event held in the West, although the space was a little more cramped than I would have liked. Even considering that, I still had enough room to check out some of the artists, look at the latest The Walking Dead trade paperbacks, and snap a few pictures of Cosplayers (after getting their permission, of course).

After leaving the dealer room, I walked out into the open-air courtyard and into the warm sun. The weather was really amazing, too – something I think the guy dressed as a wizard must have had a hand in. Of course, had this event been in the height of summer, it would have been very unpleasant, especially for the Stormtroopers and Lord Vader. I made a mental note; don’t hold an event like this in Kuwait outside unless it’s in the late fall or early spring.

The courtyard was open to the breeze, had plenty of shades deployed, and was ringed by a small platoon of additional booths, offering everything from burgers to pizza to coffee to ice cream, some of which I eventually partook in. There was a costume area, a games room (which was mostly electronic games), a movie area, seminars, and a booth to get photos with your favorite celebrities in attendance (see Zainab Mirza’s article – in this very issue – for the skinny on who attended).

Of course, all of this fanned out around the massive stage at the other end of the courtyard, itself a host to events throughout the day.

I made another mental note. If this

was going to accommodate thousands of people, it needed to be outside and the weather needed to be nice.

All in all, the event was a win in my book. It had all of the things I’d expect from a convention in Europe or America: it was clean, organized, and had plenty to offer fans from every walk of fandom.

While I would have enjoyed seeing more tabletop games, I think the folks behind the MEFCC did a superb job. Dubai was the ideal site for something like this and the Marina just worked. Had it been bigger, I’m sure they would have needed another venue – but it did work.

But what about holding something like this in Kuwait? Would it even be possible?

The idealist in me certainly hopes so.

The realist in me realizes Kuwait would have some hurdles.

I’d like to think that with the right sponsors (Red Bull sponsors everything, don’t they?!?), the right space, and the right weather, Kuwait could manage its very own film and comic convention. If it were up to me, I’d host it on the beach, after the summer heat had passed (probably in September or October). I’d make sure all of the best folks flew in for it, especially if I had cool sponsors willing to step up and help make that happen.

There would be comics, movies, and Cosplay, too. Of course, I’d keep things clean and professional, as well.

But that’s just what I’d do. What I’d do and what is allowed in Kuwait, however, are two different things. That is, of course, why I’m so interested in hearing what the folks behind Q8 Con have up their sleeve. I’d never dare make predictions, but if they’re following Dubai’s lead, they might just be onto something. I suppose, however, only time will tell.

So, what do you think? Is Kuwait ready for something like this?

For comments or suggestions please go to our website www.bazaar-magazine.com or email info@bazaar-magazine.com.

Image courtesy of Zainab Mirza.

A Maestro of Beauty

Dr. Reza Nabavian, Russell Crowe Trudie Styler, Paul Haggis

Dr. Reza Nabavian, Susan Sarandon

12th of January, 2010, an earthquake of epic proportions devastated Haiti, destroying homes, businesses, families...but not crushing the dreams of Haiti's children.

Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ), a star studded charity whose leadership includes Charlize Theron, Paul Haggis, Clint Eastwood, Ben Stiller, Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz, Josh Brolin, Diane Lane, Susan Sarandon and Gerard Butler, stood side-by-side with the Haitian people to address the urgent humanitarian need.

ROYAL HAYAT Dr. Reza Nabavian, Gerard Butler

Dr. Reza Nabavian coordinated the medical and surgical relief operations for APJ and continues to serve as the Co-Chair of the Executive Committee of APJ's Board of Directors, where he helps execute its philanthropic goals. Dr. Nabavian has traveled to Haiti over a dozen times since the earthquake to lend a medical hand.

... and an Artist For Peace & Justice

Dr. Reza Nabavian, Lee Greene

"My involvement in Haiti with APJ has been very gratifying because there is a higher level of personal fulfillment when you realize that your skills and knowledge can make such a huge impact with people that have so much need."

Professor Dr. Reza Nabavian Board Certified Plastic Surgeon American Board of Plastic Surgery - Beverly Hills Director of Plastic Surgery Training in the University of Southern California.

Committee Member for Board of International Plastic Surgery Policies and Procedures Dr. Reza Nabavian, Barbara Burchfield

@royalehayat

/royalehayat

/royalehayathospital

For Enquiries: 2536 0123 , 2536 0000 w w w. r oya l e haya t . c om | w w w. c os m e s ur g e . c om

Q8FOOTSOLDIERS

By Ayman Nassar

Running is one of the world’s oldest sports.

It is also the most simple to partake in. All you really need is a good pair of shoes and a positive attitude, and you’re good to go!

Kuwait has been labeled as the 5th fattest nation in the world and it is high time someone took a positive step against the lethargic lifestyle that seems to plague today’s populace as a result of overindulgence in technology.

So just who are the Q8FootSoldiers?

The idea was to provide an environment for any and all persons wishing to inject a dose of activity into their lives. It took on more form when I realized that there are few groups that cater to people’s sporting ambitions without charging them! I mean, asking people to pay to run in the streets, what is up with that?

On a typical Friday morning, you are bound to find a group of runners that congregate by the fountain near Marina Crescent. Advocates of “the way of the foot”, the group is based on the core concept that fitness is a lifestyle, and not an exercise. That is the mentality echoed within the group known as Q8Footsoldiers, my brain child. That being said, there is no “I” in team, as each person forms an integral part of the whole, contributing to the synergy that is teamwork.

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Between us we have covered distances of thousands of miles, and each newcomer is exposed to this tapestry of accomplishment, learning what they need to better themselves.

Our greatest accomplishment is aiding a member kick her cigarettes to the curb, as well as coming in first and second place at the Radisson Blu 3K Fun Run last March!

Metaphorically speaking, we are not a running group. We do not teach people to run.

We teach people discipline. It takes a lot of discipline and commitment to wake up early on a Friday morning when most are probably just about to call it a night after staying up to enjoy their weekend. It takes an enormous amount of effort to crawl out of bed and proceed to join a group of other like-minded individuals for a task that seems daunting at first, but proves to be extremely rewarding in the end (whereas most of our members drive to Marina Crescent, I am too lazy to get in my car, so I run from home, a distance of roughly 6KM!). If you can muster up the resolve to do that on a weekend, there is no stopping you from attaining any other goal. In essence, the group is meant to inspire self-motivation, and that is the key to leading a harmonious life.

If people can make commitments to meet up

for coffee, lunch or dinner, then meeting up to better their bodies is definitely within reach!

Of course there are several other benefits to running early morning. It leaves you with that buzz of self-accomplishment properly dubbed “runner’s high”, and it kick-starts your metabolism early in the morning, turning you into a calorie burning machine. It leaves the rest of the day open for activity, as a result of proper time management and being out before the crowd. Most importantly, it gives you discipline.

The runners of Kuwait are solidifying their presence as a new tier in society. With every passing day and ever path crossed, familiarity is engrained within its members, easily recognizing each other. I never tire of the label “Gangnam Runner” as a result of an impromptu jig done on stage after the last Charity Run Half Marathon!

Our motto is, “We may not be perfect, however practice makes perfect!” Hence you can always find us out by Marina Crescent on a Friday morning at 7:30am, regardless of the weather -whether it be dusty, foggy, rain or sun -- nothing may get in the way of our run!

For more information visit: www.facebook.com/Q8FootSoldiers.

CHEVROLET

BICE RESTAURANT The dining panache of an elegant Italy

By Christina Pinto

Bask in the affluence of Italian cuisine by dining at the exclusive Bice Ristorante. It recreates the style and class of dining in Milan and presents a feast of authentic Italian cuisine.

Every imaginable delectable Italian meal is on their menu, including freshly-made pasta, Veal Milanese and Seabass Al Forno - there is a distinct taste of Bice excellence.

Incredible creations emerge from humble beginnings. The Bice restaurant group started as a family dream in 1996 in Milano, growing to a hot spot for its amazing homecooked meals and genial hospitality.

Bice’s pride is its menu, boasting of uniquely strong flavors in specialties, a rich blend between the traditional and nouvelle cuisine, specially envisioned by creative chefs.

At bazaar, we recognize the facets of a fantastic restaurant that treats guests to a unique and memorable experience. Entrenched in the Bice brand is the idea of providing an idyllic setting for diners to relish delicious Italian food, supported by impeccable service. The Bice Company has over 30 branches worldwide due to the overwhelming appreciation for Bice’s standard and excellence that make the restaurant memorable.

Speaking with Bice’s Executive Manager, Valerio Lenco explained with ardent exuberance that all the pillars of a great restaurant encompassing service, cleanliness, good food and fantastic ambience are strengthened to define Bice. Every detail from the service 80

to the food presentation is supervised by him to ensure a gratifying night for diners.

The details of the décor are reminiscent of the charm and panache of elegant Italy mixed with modern elements. Every piece of the enchanting old European décor: the pictures, furniture and furnishings has been imported from Italy, as well as the kitchen equipment for an infusion of Italy.

The restaurant’s sophisticated structural details are offset by rich hues of brown and the expert use of lighting for a soothing effect. Guests are serenaded with music by a talented pianist on the grand piano, which sets the mood for extravagant dining.

Bice offers diners a new delight with every visit; the standard menu changes every three months, and they have a special dish every day. For occasions like Valentine’s Day, diners lavish on their loved ones to an unforgettable night, courtesy of the restaurant’s special menu and setting.

Dancing on your tongue, the names on the menu promise many delicious surprises. To satisfy my craving for eggplant, I selected the Parmigiana di Melanzane Tascano, with its amazing accompanying sauce.

Presentation ranks high in Bice, which was why the Bice’s Carpaccio di Manzo, appeared in an artful color arrangement on the plate. The handcut slices of Angus beef were truly exceptional. Vegetarian lovers can indulge in the flavorsome salads, like the Insalata Caprese, which is perfection. I

relished the organic buffalo mozzarella from Caserta and enjoyed the ripe cherry tomatoes.

The fresh and savory taste of the dishes are extraordinary, and it was due to the freshest and finest ingredients that are ordered daily for the restaurant.

They are imported from exotic or European locations to give palates quite a stir.

An example of their rich specialties, Mazara del Vallo is from the special daily Chef menu. The divine taste of the Red Shrimp of Mazara in Sicily causes your senses to reverberate with pleasure.

Risotto Ai Funghi Porcini, a creamy risotto with Porcini mushrooms is scrumptious. Meanwhile, the Costolette d’agnello Alla Toscana, a rack of lamb drizzled in Tuscan garlic and herbs sauce is delicious.

Aside from their mouth-watering range of finely cooked meats, they offer a plethora of pastas that are a burst; Linguine Ai Frutti Di Mare (linguine with shellfish and seafood) and Paccheri Con Pescatrice Pomodorini E Cozze, is intensely satisfying pasta with the marriage of monkfish and mussels.

The Ravioli Con Aragosta Gamberetti E Vongole, a combination of lobster cooked with prawns and clams, makes one salute the art of cooking seafood.

Many diners have named Branzino Al Forno the best sea bass in town, particularly cooked to unleash a wealth of flavors. One bite made me wish I never had to taste anything average again.

Make sure you finish the meal with something sweet, choosing one

of the many desserts that take you to great heights of sweet ecstasy.

The Pannacotta Con Salsa Lamponi is a lovely delicacy and the chocolate desserts ooze goodness.

The dishes are potent, igniting your taste buds with their cornucopia of flavors. One sitting at Bice is not enough to appreciate the variety and exclusivity of the restaurant’s beautiful cuisine.

The waiters undergo an intensive training process, where they are tutored on speaking, manners and the restaurants own internal rules. To meet the expectations of high class cliental such as ambassadors and VIPs the expectations of Bice are high. Although every diner is made to feel special with the high service standards they uphold. Waiters are always attentive, polite and affable.

Executive Chef, Andrea Parente, who is responsible for the wonderful cuisine, says it is very fulfilling to see customers enjoy his dishes, created with his expertise and enthusiasm. He revealed that each dish stays true to the essence of Italian cuisine.

Spend a classy evening at Bice that grows more momentous with every second; it offers exquisite Italian food and a place to feel special and indulged.

Bice Restaurant is located at the Al-Hamra Luxury Center. For more information, find them on Twitter @bice_kuwait, or www.facebook. com/pages/TIG/221598554605762.

Please call 22270247 for delivery orders or more information.

OAKLEY

STORY OF AN ARTISAN Part I: The Eco Artisan Ana-Katarina Eco-Gioielli By bazaar staff

The art of ornament, as varied as it may seem, is one best conveyed by the budding scene of artisanal jewelers in Kuwait and the region. In this special series, bazaar explores the works of some of the finest Jewelry designers, uncovering the artistes within, their inspirations, and the beautiful pieces they create.

The concept of Eco-design is a modern one, as its name elicits the notion of innovation and novelty. However, it remains esoteric and ritualoriented in its essence. The mainstream has taught us that Eco-design carries with it environmental considerations during a product’s lifecycle, and we’ve seen that translated into buildings, clothing, energy procurement and much more. Yet when it comes to jewelry design, I was personally unaware of the depths in which Eco-design delivers a spectacular ceremony of renewal and renaissance, until I met the special lady behind Ana-Katarina Eco Gioielli.

When I first laid eyes on Ana-Katarina’s jewelry, I was presented with masterpieces; each one a work of art adorned with dazzling stones, natural and rare materials like cow-bone and ivory, hidden ‘healing‘ symbols displayed on the inside of these pieces, crafted into an inimitable structure. The notion 82

of Eco-design couldn’t be further from my mind.

Instead, I only thought of couture, style, and runways.

Yet, when it comes to Ana’s work, there’s definitely more to it than what innocently meets the eye. The attention she devotes to every aspect of any given piece is spectacular.

Ana began to explain her work: how her deep respect for the Earth and its people fueled her dedication to design socially conscious fine jewelry, each piece customized to individual clients’ tastes.

Sensing my immediate intrigue, she invited me to share with her the experience of creating an Ecodesign piece for one of her clients.

Preceding the meeting with her client, a quick tête-à-tête with Ana unveils a passionate artist, to say the least. A former Balkan War correspondent and the daughter of a world-renowned architect and a Whitney-awarded painter, Ana-Katarina’s witness to powerful beauty and human tragedy sharpens

her senses. When she touches upon influences of her family, her eyes glimmer with remembrance, intuition, and contentment. Upon launching her independent brand in 2007, her wide experience at fine jewelry firms in the US and Europe drove her towards procuring the finest materials to work with, choosing recycled gold, ethically mined Canadian diamonds, and fair trade gemstones.

One might credit her expertise to her GIA (Gemological Institute of America) certification, amongst her various certificates, yet upon the arrival of Ana’s client, I immediately noticed the striking friendship and sense of familiarity amongst the two women. She comments, “When it comes to designing a concept for a client, I look for one that communicates the client’s energy. It’s not just about what I see as beautiful, yet what they believe is beautiful and personal to them.” The process is completely personal, artistic in nature, and a rediscovery of one’s style. The

After

purpose of any given piece is to reflect one’s personal style, which, in definition, stems from a person’s aspirations, personal traits and core beliefs. This client, in particular, has always been ‘drawn’ to the mystical Alexandrite stone and wished to design a ring using a gold set she once received as a wedding gift, and I found myself suddenly moved by Ana’s choice of the term to describe this client’s affinity towards a given stone. I couldn’t help but interlude with the question, ‘what would become of this specific attraction?’ only to find myself an active participant in this meeting.

Conversations about life, womanhood, and more coffee ensued, which led me towards following Ana to her studio.

I further learn from Ana that her client is a professor and a mother of two young children. “Her style in collecting jewelry has always been commemorative of her accomplishments, last commissioning one piece starring a beautiful opal stone, also the largest in her collection. So why not commemorate her growth this time?” When examining this stunning 2.6-carat Alexandrite, which would pose as the center of the finished ring design, I wondered what the ring would look like. Ana commented that without understanding her client’s approach to life, one that is both scientific and holistic due to her PHD in nutrition, the final design wouldn’t materialize. “She

is a woman who is vibrant and infinitely curious, full of joie de vivre. Her style ranges from classic Audrey Hepburn to hipster chic. Personally I always thought her vibe was that of a Tsarina- opulent and grand.”

A few weeks later, I received another phone-call from Ana, followed by an email with the stunning images of the finished piece. My attention was directed immediately to the Alexandrite, the color changing sapphire glimmered in shades of a seafoam green in angles, to slightly purplish red, surrounded by an undercarriage of diamonds, and set in 18 carat rose gold. I was astounded at what were once a single stone, a discarded gold set, and the final result. A statement piece, both simple yet magnificent, still beckons us further to explore every aspect of why Ana-Katarina produced this design. She adds, “In the Auyverdic tradition I placed one stone to touch the skin. This is my personal blessing to her. As the stone touched her skin it will add its energy of creative expression, intuition and meditation to her energy.” Incorporating Ayruvedic elements and principles of Yoga isn’t necessarily a voluntary act by Ana, yet this resides as an intrinsic part of her character. Designing a piece with Ana makes for a soul-searching endeavor--one that is assisted by the designer herself. Not only does she aim to deliver a masterpiece that is esthetically

Before

pleasing to the eye, yet it becomes a talisman that connects its wearer to her personal strength and beauty lying with her own soul.

Ana later informs me that the client is elated with her finished piece, and I actually felt elated for her; through this beautiful design process, I somehow felt like I connected with this amazing personality, even if only as an observant bystander.

Please visit http://anakatarina.com for more information, or follow Ana-Katarina on Instagram, @AnaKatarinaEcoGioielli.

Photography by bazaar staff and Yasmin Mouftah. Hair and Makeup by Fuschia Salon, 6707 7077.

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KOJI Japanese tranquillity in the city By bazaar staff

Nestled in between the hustle and bustle that is Kuwait City, Koji is an oasis of calm serving up traditional and contemporary Japanese cuisine, and also putting on a little bit of a show at the teppanyaki grill too.

From the moment you step in to Koji you’ll feel transported elsewhere, and your troubles will slide away. The cascading water feature that greets you as you walk through the door will soothe you and the waiting staff will welcome you with a smile. There are two bars at Koji and at each one you can dine whilst watching. The first one is in front of the of the sushi prep area where you can see the fish being sliced and prepared, the second one is at the teppanyaki grill and here you can really see a show of your meal being made.

The décor, like the menu, is traditional yet modern and you can sit at the aforementioned bars or at a regular table. There is a private room that seats around seven people where you can dine at your leisure.

When we took our seats we were immediately served green tea, while we browsed the menu.

This is an easy and fun experience at Koji. You’ll be handed hard copy menus to look at but you’ll also be able to flick through images of all the dishes on a supplied iPad. We started with a bowl of Miso Soup, always a great way to kick off any Japanese meal, and also snacked on those addictive Edamami. We then tucked into the Koji Special Salada, a delicious and fresh salad of lettuce, salmon, kani, cherry tomato, avocado, tobico.

They have a great selection of appetizers on offer at Koji and after much discussion we opted for Kani Furai, which are tasty Panko breaded crab sticks, Harumaki, which are spring rolls available as vegetarian, shrimp, or kani, and finally what turned out to be our favorite appetizer, Crusty Pop Shrimp. With a name like that it really needs no explanation, except to say they are delicious.

Japanese food is great for sharing and if there are a few of you, then a platter is a great way to go. We went for the Koji Special Platter 21, which as the name states, is a platter of twenty-one pieces of different kinds of sushi, including sashimi, maki rolls, and nigiri. The presentation is as pleasing as the taste and the salmon sashimi was exceptional. We supplemented our platter with some extra Hammour Sashimi which turned out to be one of our favorite dishes.

Then it was time for the show. We took seats 84

at the bar in front of the teppanyaki grill and got ready to watch our dishes being prepared.

Not only do you get to see exactly how fresh the ingredients are, and what goes into your meal, the teppanyaki grill master is also a master of his tools. Spatulas, knives, salt and pepper shakers, were all part of his showmanship. Tapping on the grill, swirling them in his fingers, flipping them through the air, this is part show and part cooking as your food will get seasoned and chopped in the process.

The finished dishes were just as impressive.

Misono Chef Special was a mix of beef, shrimp, chicken, and vegetables that couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get any fresher off the grill and we also tried the Lobster-Ise-Ebi. We then moved onto dessert. The Green Tea Ice Cream was an all-round hit at our table with each person devouring a portion to themselves. We also tried Banana Rolls, which were similar to spring rolls with banana inside, served with ice cream, a great combination of

hot and cold.

If you are looking to get away from it all and relax in a calm environment while tucking into a feast of Japanese cuisine, then Koji could be your place in the city where you can get away from it all.

Koji is located in Mashoura Towers, behind HSBC bank in Kuwait City. For more information find them on Facebook, or call 2246 1882 / 2246 1884 for reservations.

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bazaar music

WHAT ABOUT NOW

RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES

OLD SOCK

This is the 12th studio album from these stadium rockers led by Jon Bon Jovi and guitarist Richie Sambora. Produced by Jon with John Shanks, in celebration of their 30th anniversary as a band, this New Jersey-based band have become international superstars, selling out stadium gigs all over the world on a consistent basis. What About Now has become their third album in a row to hit #1 in the US after The Circle, and Lost Highway, and is the fifth #1 album during their career.

Features the first single ‘Because We Can’.

Random Access Memories is the much anticipated fourth studio album by French electronic music duo Daft Punk and the follow-up to 2005’s Human After All (although Daft Punk’s last major project was the soundtrack for the movie Tron: Legacy.

The duo even made an appearance in the film wearing their trademark helmets). The album will boast thirteen new songs and feature works from a number of prominent artists, including Nile Rodgers, Giorgio Moroder, Panda Bear (a.k.a. Noah Lennox of Animal Collective), Chilly Gonzales and Paul Williams.

Old Sock is mostly a collection of some of Clapton’s favorite songs, spanning from his childhood to present day, that highlights his vast appreciation and knowledge of music. From Leadbelly to J.J. Cale; Hank Snow to Gary Moore, this record is a celebration of so many who have inspired Clapton’s rich musical life. Clapton has always had a remarkable ability to recognize great songs and a gift for knowing how to uniquely interpret them. The album explores romantic standards of the 30’s, reggae, soul, rock, and includes a stand out playful collaboration with Paul McCartney, and creates an experience that is quintessential Clapton.

by Bon Jovi

by Daft Punk

by Eric Clapton

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

PARAMORE

TO BE LOVED

DEAR MISS LONELYHEARTS

When Hayley Williams began writing lyrics for the songs that appear on Paramore’s self-titled album, she found herself feeling more optimistic than ever before about the future of the band she has fronted since she was 15. Lead-off single “Now” - with lyrics like “if there’s a future, we want it now” - sets the urgent tone of Paramore, the Nashville, Tennesseebred band’s fourth album. The band members holed up to write over a year and a half and emerged with a collection of songs that retains Paramore’s youthful spirit, but clearly shows their evolution. It’s the most musically adventurous set they’ve released to date.

To Be Loved is Michael Buble’s seventh studio album.

The Bob Rock-produced LP will consist of standards as well as four original songs all co-written by the singer, including “After All,” a co-write with iconic ’80s and ’90s balladeer (and fellow Canadian) Bryan Adams, who also performs on the song. Another, perhaps more surprising, duet: a cover of Frank and Nancy Sinatra‘s “Somethin’ Stupid,” featuring Reese Witherspoon. Other covers include: “To Love Somebody” (Bee Gees); “Who’s Loving You” (Jackson 5); “To Be Loved” (Jackie Wilson); and “Have I Told You Lately” (Elvis Presley).

The fourth album from Long Beach-based Indie rockers, marks the band’s first new material since the release of 2011’s Mine Is Yours. Recorded in their California studio with producer Lars Stalfors (The Mars Volta, Matt & Kim), It’s the first release to feature former Modest Mouse member Dann Gallucci, who replaced Jonathan Russell earlier this year. The album is less a concept and more a statement that the band is still capable of their earlier sound, and it’s the striking difference between Lonelyhearts and Mine is Yours that makes the refreshing return to CWK’s roots that much better.

by Paramore

86

by Michael Buble

by Cold War Kids

source: www.amazon.com

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WISDOM FROM AN UNWISE BACKPACKER II

By Mohammad Alsanea

It was a cold night inside the cabin. The wooden walls and slab floor by no means served as any sort of insulation from the harsh cold mountains.

I was wearing almost everything I packed inside my backpack. Covered up to my nose under my sleeping bag like a newborn baby, my only solace to this cold night was the one clean woollen underpants wrapped around my head.

It was the Himalayan spring, 2,600 meters high, and surviving the night meant an eight hour morning hike wearing only my blue jeans, preserving what became my most valuable possession, my woollen underpants.

I was not at my best physical shape when I signed up for this trip and was going through a ‘burger trial’ phase at the time. I had two months to prep myself and shed off some of the weight accumulated over the years. After weeks on the treadmill I managed to gain a few extra pounds, and a good knowledge of the best burger joints in town. For some reason I thought I was now ready to trek the Himalayas.

Inside the cabin in Phakding I was having my early morning breakfast and three cups of milk tea which I ordered mainly to keep my hands warm. I had an eight hour trek ahead of me to Namche Bazaar, the highest settlement in the region, following the footsteps of a local Nepalese man, my only companion. While I was having breakfast I enjoyed listening to the stories of other trekkers on the table.

“I am so excited, I have been saving money for years and here I am trekking to Everest base camp” one trekker sounded like an enthusiastic school girl, only forty years older. There was a table of retirees setting new goals in their lives, a table with a professor from the Caribbean, whose research required him to make it to the 88

Everest and then my table; a solo traveler not in the best physical shape trying to find out his own limits. We all had different stories and personal challenges, but for that moment we were all enjoying the same warm Himalayan breakfast.

The next morning I found myself sitting on an isolated bench on the edge of the Himalayas 3,600 meters high, staring at one of God’s masterpieces, Mount Everest. I couldn’t believe how close I was to something so magnificent. All of a sudden, the long hours up these mountains, the high suspended dancing bridges and the many Yaks’ surprises along the way faded. It felt like I was standing a few meters away, but as the trekkers started to gear up for another day trek I knew that the end of my journey here was just the beginning of their own to the highest peak on earth.

A few days ago, as I was sipping my morning tea sitting on my comfortable sofa I picked up my travel journals for the first time and came across an entry from my five month trip. Somewhere between Thailand and Cambodia I was contemplating the time-old question of ‘what did ‘I’ really want out of ‘my’ life?’

I always believed that dreams are big. That success is tangible, and inspiration was a goal. It may be true for many. But for the first time I am realizing that my real dreams, those that make me happy, are not that big. That, the success I really want could not be measured by others. And that the only person I strive to inspire, is myself. The real comfort of life cannot be felt from the sofa I was sitting on, ok…maybe a little. But real comfort comes from a state of mind, just like that moment on that bench in the Himalayas with an aching body, a fractured foot and woollen pants on your head.

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MAKING A SPECTACLE OF THEMSELVES

By Gerrick D. Kennedy

Hours before Pink’s recent show at Staples Center, creative director Baz Halpin is crouched beneath the stage in the dimly lighted corridor he calls “the underworld.” That night, Pink’s fans would witness the star scale a giant gyroscope, somersault from bungee cords, dangle precariously from silk ribbons and fly over the audience at dizzying heights. Halpin points to crash-landing pads that swell from a trap door to protect the singer, an ornate silver rig for one of five aerial numbers and a small tank filled with water for a finale that blurs the line between circus and pop performance.

Pink’s Truth About Love tour may set a benchmark for fiercely ambitious staging, and she’s not alone.

Pop divas including Madonna, Beyonce and Lady 92

Gaga have upped the ante in bringing performances to the public, launching live spectacles that are as physically taxing as they are daring. Even performers such as Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood, not exactly known for their flamboyant stage presences, are joining the action.

“There’s been such a great heritage of incredible women performers from Tina Turner to Cher,” said Halpin as he watched a dancer test the bungeeaided aerial number that opens the show. “Women were the first to bring real theater and storytelling into (concerts).” But now, he says, women have quite literally taken the concert experience to new heights with “elements of theater and Cirque du Soleil packed into a pop / rock shows.”

Lady Gaga was one artist savvy enough to turn

to Cirque and Broadway for inspiration onstage.

Her massive Born This Way Ball tour was a master class in spectacle with a sprawling, three-story medieval castle and extravagant set pieces such as a mechanical horse, the infamous Grammy egg and a motorcycle that doubled as a costume.

With album sales flagging as compared with the record industry’s glory days, live shows now play a more crucial role than ever when it comes to engaging fans. As ticket prices have continued to rise so too have fans’ expectations for a show to offer more than just music.

But why is it that women are bearing the burden of taking big risks onstage? The pop landscape has become more and more competitive. Gaga, Katy Perry and Rihanna have dominated radio over the past couple of years and are talked about as much for their music as their constantly evolving costumes and stage designs.

Pink, born Alecia Moore, decided to introduce acrobatic elements into her American shows a few years ago. Though she was already breaking tour records in Australia, the U.S. market was less convinced. Then she hung upside down over a vat of water at the 2010 Grammys, and everything changed.

The performance showed the tough gal known for brash, unconventional pop anthems could also pull off killer, high-concept numbers.

“I’ve always had something to prove,” Moore said last year. “Then the Grammys come along, and that was my moment. That was my ‘A-ha!’” She relives that moment again and again on her latest tour.

Halpin, chief executive of L.A.-based Silent House Productions, has treated Pink as something of an onstage athlete on tour, he transformed the singer into a human jack-in-the-box, dropping her from 80 feet and launching her from bungee cords - and these are just opening numbers. Silent House has also been the creative force behind recent tours from Perry, Sade and Swift.

But when is it too much? The ferocious choreography of Lady Gaga’s recent tour led to a hip injury that required surgery and the cancellation of remaining dates. During Pink’s 2010 Funhouse Summer Carnival tour the singer had to be rushed to the hospital after she was flung into the audience barricade because of an improperly attached harness.

The risky stunt is still part of Pink’s show.

“That injury was a very real injury ... (but) if she does something and it’s not physically demanding enough or hard enough, she’s almost not interested,” Halpin said. “That’s what keeps her live shows interesting. She likes to test herself. Her shows are tough because she wants them to be tough.”

Others are willing to take risks too. When Beyonce opened her Mrs. Carter World Tour in April, fans saw her fly above the arena to a secondary stage. Swift’s current Red Tour also sends the singer soaring over the crowd.

SAKURA

‫عبد اهلل طليحي‬ ‫بقلم‪Strawberry Girl :‬‬

‫بطل العالم في بطولة قتال المحاربين ‪Gladiators‬‬ ‫‪ )Fight Championship (GFC‬في فئة وزن ‪ 91‬كغم عبد‬ ‫اهلل الطليحي يعتقد أن رياضة الكيك بوكسنغ يمكن أن‬ ‫تكون البوابة المؤدية لهوليوود‪ .‬وقد حصل عبد اهلل على‬ ‫هذا اللقب خالل بطولة ال ‪ GFC‬التي أقيمت في الكويت في‬ ‫سبتمبر الماضي (‪ .)2012‬يتطلع البطل الكويتي للحصول‬ ‫على فرصة للتمثيل في فيلم أكشن عالمي شبيه بسلسلة‬ ‫أفالم روكي لسلفستر ستالون‪ ،‬حتى لو لم يكن ذلك الفيلم‬ ‫أمريكيا‪.‬‬ ‫عبد اهلل الطليحي ممثل كويتي شاب بدأ مشواره في‬ ‫التمثيل عام ‪ 2009‬صدفة‪ .‬وكانت البداية عندما قرأ إعالنا‬ ‫في الجريدة عن إقامة كاستنغ للمواهب الجديدة للتمثيل‬ ‫في مسلسل عربي والذي سيعرض على قناة اإلم بي سي‬ ‫الفضائية‪ .‬و يشرح قائال‪ « :‬تقدمت للكاستنغ وتم اختياري‬ ‫من قبل اللجنة لتمثيل دور في مسلسل الصراع‪ .‬وبما أنني‬ ‫كنت األفضل‪ ،‬فقد عرض علي المنتج في البداية أن أمثل ‪22‬‬ ‫حلقة‪ ،‬إال أنني كنت جديدا على المجال و طلبت أن أمثل دورا‬ ‫قصيرا في البداية ولذلك اقتصر دوري على ‪ 5‬حلقات فقط»‪.‬‬ ‫و بعد ذلك بشهر حصل على عرض للعب دور البطولة‬ ‫في مسلسل آخر بعنوان (للحب زمن آخر)‪ ،‬والذي يتكون‬ ‫من ‪ 25‬حلقة‪ .‬و كان في ذلك الوقت قد تعود على الوقوف‬ ‫أمام الكاميرا و لذلك لم يشعر بالخوف كما كان الحال في‬ ‫المسلسل األول‪ .‬و توالت أعماله الفنية حيث لعب بعدها دور‬ ‫البطولة في مسلسل آخر إسمه (بين الماضي والحب) و الذي‬ ‫يقع في ‪ 85‬حلقة‪ .‬وقد جذب إعالن هذا المسلسل انتباه‬

‫صاحب قناة اإلم بي سي الشيخ وليد اإلبراهيم لموهبته و‬ ‫الذي عرض عليه أن يعمل كمذيع‪.‬‬ ‫و قام بعدها بتقديم برنامج المسابقات «للزمن ثمن»‬ ‫في أبريل ‪ ،2011‬والذي عرض لمدة شهرين‪ .‬وبعده مباشرة‬ ‫قام عبداهلل بتصوير مسلسل آخر إسمه «بنات سكر نبات»‪.‬‬ ‫ثم بعد ذلك قدم البرنامج الجماهيري الشهير «أرب آيدول»‬ ‫و الذي أيضا عرض على شاشة اإلم بي سي‪ .‬و يعلق عبداهلل‬ ‫قائال‪« :‬إن تقديم هذا البرنامج الذي شاهده المئات من اآلالف‬ ‫في جميع الدول العربية‪ ،‬كان فرصة استثنائية لشهرتي‪ .‬إن‬ ‫برنامج للزمن ثمن كان مسجال بينما أرب آيدول كان يعرض‬ ‫على الهواء مباشرة‪ ،‬لذلك لم تكن األخطاء مسموحة‪ .‬واليوم‬ ‫أنا مستعد لتقديم أي برنامج»‪.‬‬ ‫و اآلن يحضر لعمل جديد وهو مسلسل «مطلقات‬ ‫صغيرات»‪ ،‬والذي سوف يعرض على قناة دبي الفضائية‪.‬‬ ‫و يضيف‪« :‬دوري في هذا المسلسل مختلف عن األدوار‬ ‫السابقة‪ ،‬حيث أنني في هذا المسلسل ألعب دور الشاب‬ ‫الطيب واللطيف‪ ،‬بينما أدواري السابقة كانت شريرة «‪.‬‬ ‫الرياضة والنشاط اإلعالمي هي هوايات بالنسبة لعبد‬ ‫اهلل حيث أنه يعمل في القطاع الحكومي‪ ،‬وقد قال أن عمله‬ ‫يقيده كثيرا وهو غير قادر على المشاركة في العديد من‬ ‫األنشطة‪« .‬أنا ال أستطيع المشاركة في برنامج أري آيدول ‪2‬‬ ‫ألن مدته ‪ 4‬أشهر‪ ،‬و جهة عملي لن تسمح لي بالتغيب كل‬ ‫هذه المدة‪ .‬أيضا ال أستطيع المشاركة في بطوالت الكيك‬ ‫بوكسنغ المقامة في الخارج حيث أنها ال تعتبر رياضة رسمية‬ ‫في الكويت ولذلك لن أحصل على التفرغ الرياضي‪ .‬ولهذا أنا‬

‫فقط أشارك في بطوالت المالكمة»‪.‬‬ ‫لقد بدأ عبد اهلل في ممارسة الكيك بوكسنغ و المالكمة‬ ‫منذ تسع سنوات تقريبا‪ .‬كان في البداية يتدرب في نادي‬ ‫خاص‪ ،‬حيث أن الكيك بوكسنغ غير متوفر في األندية‬ ‫الرياضية الحكومية‪ .‬و قد دربه بطل العالم وديع بعلبكي‬ ‫بقوة‪ ،‬و قد شارك عبداهلل في جميع بطوالت الكيك بوكسنغ‬ ‫المحلية‪ .‬كما أنه شارك في بطوالت المالكمة المحلية‬ ‫والعربية‪ ،‬و حصل على الميدالية الذهبية‪.‬‬ ‫و يعتبر لقب بطولة ‪ GFC‬حلما بالنسبة للطليحي‪.‬‬ ‫البطولة التي حصل فيها على اللقب كانت األولى التي أقيمت‬ ‫في الكويت وشارك فيها ‪ 24‬العب محلي وعربي وعالمي‪.‬‬ ‫وقد تضمنت ‪ 12‬مباراة و حصل عبداهلل على الحزام الذهبي‬ ‫في الوزن الثقيل (‪ 91‬كغ)‪ .‬وبما أن هذه هي بطولة العالم‬ ‫في ‪ GFC‬فهو بطل العالم في هذا الوزن‪ .‬و كانت هذه هي‬ ‫أول بطولة عالمية يشارك بها‪ .‬و كان هذا حلمه و الذي نجح‬ ‫في تحقيقه‪.‬‬ ‫بالنسبة للتمثيل و اإلعالم فإن جميع أفراد عائلته‬ ‫شجعوه على ذلك‪ ،‬بينما أمه تعارض ممارسته الرياضة‬ ‫الخطرة و العنيفة‪ .‬و يشرح عبداهلل أن هناك العبين توفوا‬ ‫أثناء ممارسة رياضة المالكمة بسبب إصابتهم‪ .‬ويضيف أنه‬ ‫ال يحب ممارسة أي رياضات أخرى إال هذه الرياضة العنيفة‪،‬‬ ‫كما انه في كل مباراة يجب أن يوقع تعهد بأنه مسؤول عن‬ ‫نفسه عند حدوث أي إصابات خالل اللعبة‪.‬‬ ‫‪Images by Salah Al-Fahad‬‬

‫‪94‬‬

From the glorious monument to Roman imperial power Acqua eva, a pure passion to live

EVA

THE BAMBOO STALK 2013 International Prize for Arabic Fiction By bazaar staff

Kuwaiti author Saud Alsanousi has won the 2013 International Prize for Arabic Fiction for his portrayal of the lives of foreign workers in Gulf countries in The Bamboo Stalk. The 31-year-old Alsanousi became the youngest winner in the $50,000-prize’s sixyear history for his story, as seen through the eyes of Issa, the son of a Kuwaiti father and a Filipina mother.

As a chair of the International panel, Egyptian writer Galal Amin said in a statement on 23rd April (World Book Day) that “all the judges agreed on the superior quality of this novel, both artistically and also in terms of it’s social and humanitarian content.” Additional judges included the Lebanese academic and critic, Sobhi Al-Boustani; head of the Arab Cartoonists’ Association, and owner and chief editor of the independent Syrian daily newspaper Al-Domari, Ali Ferzat; professor of Arabic Literature at the Jagiellonian University of Cracow, Barbara Michalak-Pikulska, and professor of Arabic literature at Manchester University, Zahia Smail Salhi.

A short synopsis of the novel reads very real world and true in its storytelling: On returning 96

to his father’s homeland as an adult, Issa finds himself in a difficult position. Rather than the mythical country his mother has described to him, he discovers he is caught between the biological ties he shares with his father’s family and the prejudices of a traditional society, which views a child of Kuwaiti-Filipina heritage as socially unacceptable.

Alsanousi’s work has appeared in a number of Kuwaiti publications, including Al-Watan newspaper and Al-Arabi, Al-Kuwait and Al-Abwab magazines and he currently writes for Al-Qabas newspaper. His first novel The Prisoner of Mirrors was published in 2010 and in the same year won the fourth Laila al-Othman Prize, awarded for novels and short stories by young writers.

Alsanousi bet five other finalists for the prize.

Each finalist, including the winner, will receive $10,000. The other finalists were Iraqi Sinan Antoon for Hail Mary, Tunisian Houcine El Oued for, His Excellency the Minister, Lebanese author Jana Elhassan for Me, She and the Other Women, Saudi Mohammed Hasan Alwan for The Beaver and Egyptian Ibrahim Issa for Our Master.

The prize is supported by the Booker Prize

Foundation in London and funded by the Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority, which marks it’s first year as the new sponsor in 2013. One of the many things that being awarded this prize may do for the winner, is it gives them a chance to reach a larger audience by almost guaranteeing it will be published in English.

Although the prize is often referred to as the ‘Arabic Booker’, this is not instigated or endorsed at all by IPAF or the Booker Prize Foundation, which are two completely separate, independent organizations, and IPAF is not in any way connected with the Man Booker Prize.

The prize was launched in Abu Dhabi in April 2007 with an intention to address the limited international availability of high quality Arab fiction. The shortlisted finalists each receive $10,000, and the winner an additional $50,000.

Authors can look forward to increased book sales both within the Arab world and internationally through translation.

The Bamboo Stalk is available through your local book store.

NASSER SPORT (CHAMPION)

MEAT YOUR MATCH! A new grilling experience at Ribs and Rumps By bazaar staff

With the opening of Ribs and Rumps in the Menus restaurant complex, there is now a meaty steak and ribs answer to carnivorous food cravings in Mangaf. Located on the coastal road, just between exit 211 and the Hilton resort, this two-story restaurant cuts an impressive vision upon entrance. With an exposed grill that runs down the entire right hand length of the restaurant, the sound and smell of sizzling steaks, ribs, chicken, and lamb are evident as soon as you enter the building; an experience for all of the senses to enjoy, as 98

we were soon to find out.

Once seated in the upstairs dining room (what can I say, I like to eat my steak whilst looking down on the little people from above!) the backyard BBQ-like and grittyish wood table and oversized chains, the latter of which hang full-length from the ceiling down, give a rugged feel of Australian outback meets suburban sprawl in an esthetic tussle for your attention. Additionally, the VIP room in the upper level, which is separated by a safari like canopy, also gives one the feel of being on the hunt. Touché—we are! There

is also ample seating outdoors, practically seaside too!

Though their namesake clearly indicates a penchant for heartier portions of meat options, the menu proves surprisingly versatile. With wraps, seafood, and even a daily changing vegetarian pasta option. We started with the mushroom starter as well as the Buffalo wings and chips. With the wings especially there was an innovative take via a secret honey basting that balances a sweet and savory nicely; not your typical wing options, but rather a different, almost exotic variation

worth trying out.

As for the meat platters, there were 4 different types of ribs, 5 different cuts of steak and that’s all before we even get into the chefs specialties. Here they get into the more premier cuts and other options that get a little more inventive from the norm.

The ImpiSpear, which is a skewer served with mixed peppers and onions, comes with your choice of mashed potatoes or chips. Both the mashed potatoes and the chips are worth a try.

While it might seem sacrilege to some to come to a steakhouse and

talk burgers, the double burger here deserves some attention, less it be otherwise overlooked in my attempt to discuss all things still served bone-in. First off- it is an absolute monstrosity—in a good way! The audible challenges and dares that were produced purely by virtue of the burgers arrival were hilarious. Rest assured—I have a huge mouth and no part goes un-devoured. Flavor wise, the combination of cheese and grilled onions made for a delicious combination of savory with a slight sweet note from the caramelized veggies. Another burger option

that was big in our group, due to the presence of a certain 6 year-old VIP tag-a-long, were the mini-burgers. Think a higher-end serving of 3 sliders, and you are on the right track here. Round that out with an order of fries and you have all the makings of a happy kid. There is a whole side menu for kids who are not so inclined to the meet faire. Though, admittedly, all of use were acting like kids by the time we had a rib solidly in hand, BBQ sauce all over face, while a silence fell over an otherwise verbose bunch.

The desserts, of which they

currently have 6 on deck, came out looking like an exhibit at a modern art gallery, with variations of candied sugar and chocolate sculpted into walls and grids. The 8 layered chocolate fudge cake, with bands of chocolate ganache and sponge cake, was delicious, as was the chocolate pudding option. For my next trip though, it’s going to have to try the sticky date pudding.

At iconic Australian steakhouse Ribs and Rumps, they are famous for their legendary ribs, aged-toperfection steaks and mammothsized portions. The relaxed and

casual atmosphere and fast and friendly service are perfectly suited to a romantic dinner, business function or large group party. If you’ve got an appetite for generous sized meals, good service and great times, make Ribs and Rumps your next dining destination.

Ribs and Rumps is located at Menus on the Coastal Road in Mangaf. Find them online at: www.ribsandrumps.com or on Instagram @ribsnrumps.

For reservations please call 2225 0194.

Images courtesy of bazaar staff and Amina Abdulmuhsin.

99

An Arab abroad

THE FINAL SUMMER

By Yara Al-Wazir

It’s that time of year again: graduation ceremonies, finals, proms topped with decisions on housing, accommodation, and universities. Each decision seems more overwhelming than the next, and emotions quickly build up, and are woven into a mesh of excitement. If you do anything this summer, squeeze your way out of the mesh and do every little thing that you ever dreamed of. Do something extraordinary.

1- Get a job You’ll be living on your own, and that’s great. But with this great freedom “comes great responsibility” (as notoriously quoted by Superman).

Nothing teaches you independence and working with tight deadlines like challenging yourself to getting a job at a firm, without using wasta. Look at great ventures such as Loyac, who offer summer internships, or even AlShaya’a. If you love working with kids, keep an eye out for applications for counsellors at Movenpick’s KCamp.

See if you can volunteer your time at organisations like Equait or INJAZ. Whatever it is, train yourself to honour commitments, deadlines, and work with people. You’ll need it.

2- Eat Considering we are a nation of self-proclaimed foodies, having 100

this on the list may be pointless.

Nevertheless, it’s something I miss about Kuwait. Grab a copy of bazaar’s Dining Guide and go to every single restaurant in the list. From cupcakes to tandoori, everything tastes better when eaten on your home turf.

3- Shop for supplies Everything from stationary to kitchen equipment and spices, I have no shame in admitting I carried it all with me from Kuwait. Once your palette is used to a certain flavour, it’s difficult to change it, and it’s the tiny things that can make you feel horribly homesick. For me, it was the vanilla essence I use when baking. It took me months before I accepted that I wouldn’t find an ethanol-free one in the UK. Once you start moving into your dorm, your time will be precious and you’ll want to spend it all with family. You’ll also realise that you’ve forgotten all the knick-knacks and you’ll spend hours trying to find your way around the new city to find a department store that has exactly what you’ve forgotten, and then spend hours trying to find a way to carry it back (unless you’ve overcome the Transport Dilemma I wrote about in bazaar March 2013).

4- Shop for clothes Before being awarded your

degree at university, you must become an expert at laundry procrastination. It’s simply right of passage, so it’s no surprise that you’ll need a lot of clothes. But be practical at the same time; find pieces that are versatile enough for you to dress-up or dress-down, depending on the occasion. When shopping for winter clothes (yes, winter seasons do exist in the real world), think of practical fabrics that will keep you warm despite being light, like Angora or Merino wool.

5- Conquer one of your NewYears’ resolutions Again, this comes back to the purpose of number one on the list: commitment. Once you can conquer that, you can conquer the world, and that’s a great goal to have when you start college.

Depending on your mind-set, your New-Years resolution may have been to lose weight in time for college. You’ve got three months to do that, and with Ramadan starting early July this year, there has never been a better time to shock your system into shape, literally. Motivate yourself by buying clothes a size smaller, and making sure you fit into them by the time you’re ready to board your flight.

Of course, if one of your NewYears’ resolutions was to get into college, then well done.

6- Ride a camel For no specific reason, it’s internationally accepted that camels are our preferred method of transport. Camels are really fun to ride, and it’s always a great story to share. A bit of a random one on this list, but it’s all in good fun, and a fantastic way to confuse people when they see your actual car.

7- Be a tourist in Kuwait Whenever someone asks me what there is to do in Kuwait, the first thing that comes to mind is “eat”.

While that may be true, Kuwait has an abundance of touristic attractions

and activities that are often swept under the building-bricks of the array of restaurants and malls that overcrowd the country. Spend a week and do everything from visiting Kuwait Towers, to exploring the Memorial, Islamic Calligraphy, and Modern Art Museums. They also serve as great distractions from the summer heat.

8- Soak up the sun Play volleyball on the beach, go tanning, have a barbeque – do whatever you want in the scorching 50oC weather while you can.

Especially if your chosen university is in the UK where it snows in April.

You’ll miss it.

9- Spend time with your family and friends Your mother may spend the three months of summer attempting to coerce you into not moving away using her incredible food; your father may give you seemingly neverending lectures about ‘representing the family name and the country well’, and your younger siblings might start raiding your room and closet a few months early – it’s okay.

Use this time to get closer to your family. Find out things you never knew, and see what their college experiences were like. Find a group of friends to join you to complete everything on this list. It’ll bring you closer before distance tries to tear you apart.

10- Do something that’s not on this list Be creative. Do something different - something that you’ve always wanted to do. Camp on Failaka Island, maybe?

Yara Al Wazir is an activist and student currently based in the UK her monthly column reflects on her experience of moving away from the familiarity and comfort of Kuwait, to the UK in pursuit of a university degree. She can be reached via twitter on @YaraWazir.

‫‪TAIBA‬‬ ‫‪HOSPITAL‬‬

‫ﻣﻊ ﻗﺴﻢ ﺟﺮاﺣﺔ اﻟﻤﺴﺎﻟﻚ اﻟﺒﻮﻟﻴﺔ واﻟﺬﻛﻮرة‬

‫ﻧﻘﺪم‬

‫‪...‬‬

‫أﺣــﺪث ﺟﻬــﺎز ﻟﻴــﺰر أﻣﺮﻳﻜــﻲ ﻓــﻲ اﻟﻌﺎﻟﻢ ﻟﺘﺒﺨﻴﺮ وإزاﻟﺔ ﺗﻀﺨﻢ اﻟﺒﺮوﺳﺘﺎﺗﺎ‬ ‫) اﻟﻠﻴﺰر ا�ﺧﻀﺮ (‬

‫أﻓﻀـــﻞ اﻟﻨﺘﺎﺋـــﺞ اﻟﻌﺎﻟﻤﻴـــﺔ ﻣﻘﺎرﻧــﺔ ﺑﻤﺜﻴﻠﺘﻬـﺎ ﻓﻲ أﻣﺮﻳﻜﺎ وأوروﺑﺎ ‪ -‬أﻋﻠﻰ ﻣﻌﺪﻻت ا�ﻣﺎن ﻃﺒﻘ� ﻟﺘﻮﺻﻴﺎت ﻣﻨﻈﻤﺔ اﻟﻤﺴﺎﻟﻚ اﻟﺒﻮﻟﻴﺔ‬ ‫ا�ﻣﺮﻳﻜﻴﺔ واﻟﺪوﻟﻴﺔ ‪ -‬ﻛﻤﺎ ﺗﺘﻤﻴﺰ اﻟﻮﺣﺪة ﺑﺎﻻﻛﺘﺸﺎف اﻟﻤﺒﻜﺮ �ورام اﻟﺒﺮوﺳﺘﺎﺗﺎ اﻟﺴﺮﻃﺎﻧﻴﺔ ‪ -‬ﻋﻼج ﺟﻤﻴﻊ أﻧﻮاع إﻟﺘﻬﺎﺑﺎت اﻟﺒﺮوﺳﺘﺎﺗﺎ‬ ‫اﻟﻤﺘﻜــﺮرة ﺑﺪﻗﺔ ﺗﺎﻣﺔ ‪.‬‬

‫ﺑﺮوﻓﻴﺴﻮر إﻳﻬﺎب اﻟﻤـﻼح‬ ‫إﺳﺘﺸﺎري ورﺋﻴﺲ‬ ‫ﻗﺴﻢ اﻟﻤﺴﺎﻟﻚ اﻟﺒﻮﻟﻴﺔ‬ ‫ﺧﺒﺮة أﻛﺜﺮ ﻣﻦ ‪ 17‬ﻋﺎﻣﺎ ﻓﻲ‬ ‫ﺗﺒﺨﻴﺮ وإزاﻟﺔ اﻟﺒﺮوﺳﺘﺎﺗﺎ ﺑﺎﻟﻠﻴﺰر‬

‫ﺧﺪﻣﺎت ﻗﺴﻢ ﺟﺮاﺣﺔ اﻟﻤﺴﺎﻟﻚ اﻟﺒﻮﻟﻴﺔ واﻟﺬﻛﻮرة ﻧﻘﺪﻣﻬﺎ ﻟﻜﻢ ﻓﻲ ﻣﺴﺘﺸﻔﻰ ﻃﻴﺒﺔ ‪ -‬ﻧﺘﻌﺎﻣﻞ ﻣﻊ ﺷﺮﻛﺎت اﻟﺘﺄﻣﻴﻦ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬ ‫ﻟﻠﺘﺄﻫﻴﻞ واﻟﻌﻼج اﻟﻄﺒﻴﻌﻲ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬

‫ﻃﻴﺒﺔ‬

SOLDIERS AND PUZZLES

By Abrar Al Shammari

Red: too loud. Blue: too mellow. Green: too environmental. Yellow: too cheerful. Pink: too girly. Purple: just a darker shade of pink. Black: too glum. Giraffe: too exotic. Cat: too furry.

Monkey: scary in the dark. Scooby Doo: too old school. Mummy: likely to trigger nightmares.

Batman: too - “WAHHHH!” My train of thought screeches to an abrupt stop when the sound of a miniature demon’s screams invade my ears. Part of me wants to grab one of the large lollipops on display and stuff it in his mouth; another part of me deeply sympathizes with the wretched toddler’s pitiful parent.

Naser, a young father, is walking away from the toy stand where he had just returned one of the toys that his toddler Hamad was obviously begging for.

The toddler is standing in front of the toy with his arms outstretched, the toy placed too high for him to reach; he screams for it. This only lasts for a few seconds, as he realizes that he should be screaming at the man who took away his toy in the first place. His father’s stride is firm and unrelenting, and he walks away from both the toy and the toddler without looking back.

The toddler charges at his father’s leg and clings to his jeans. He digs his little nails so deeply into him that it makes his father hiss in pain and frustration, reaching down to release his son’s hands from his leg. As Naser walks away once again, the child wipes his wet nose and tearful eyes with his shirt, and approaches one of the store’s employees, dragging him by the hand to where the toy is, and points to it. The employee naively hands it to him with a smile, 102

and the boy gleefully skips away to the cashier where his father is standing, not understanding that his father has to be willing to pay for the toy if Hamad wants to take it home with him.

At the cashier, his father had been paying for two other toys, looking calm and collected, seemingly unfazed by Hamad’s tantrum. Naser’s composure is completely thrown off the moment his son excitedly places his toy on the counter with an expression of victory on his childish features; his father’s face, on the other hand, is seized by a newfound fury. His yelling vibrates from deep within his chest, “Ghasib?

How many times did I tell you to put it back? I’m not going to ask you again, Hamad!”

The boy’s sniffles and wails renewed, he picks up the toy and shuffles toward the aisle he found it in with the lethargy of a man walking to his execution.

Giving it one last longing gaze, he walks back with slumped shoulders to his father, who is having a nononsense conversation with the boy’s mother.

“Naser, habeebi, just let him have it.” Her husband stands his ground; no army toys will come into his house.

Silenced, his wife surrenders, and shakes her head at their son, gesturing for him to give up the fight too. Her husband was hoping he would not have to explain, but she had pushed him, and that one statement alone had shamed her and boiled the blood in his veins. Their son does not understand, but someday he will, and someday he will thank him. He is a three-year-old boy born in 2010, during an age of privilege, wealth and comfort, in a safe country that has not experienced war in thirteen years, the

1990 invasion being the only true event of war it has experienced in the entirety of its history. He knows nothing of war, and as of yet, he does not understand his own name. He does not know that he was named after his grandfather Hamad, one of the hundreds of POWs killed at the hands of soldiers, puppeteered by dictators. He will never experience the loneliness of growing up without a father, and the bitterness of knowing it could have been prevented.

Naser is determined for his father’s death not to be forgotten - but also for it not to be reborn. Not in his son’s ideology, not in his country’s politics, and not in the era of the generation that has the chance to change what their forefathers could not.

Yes, saying no to toy soldiers narrows down a boy’s options when it comes to playing. Nearly every aisle in the “boys section” is lined up with soldiers, police officers, wrestlers, and other violent figures of authority; glorified with muscles, heroic titles, aesthetic weapons and tanks. The ‘real world’ apart from toy stores does more than enough of this: media entities, government institutions, educational systems. It will be easier for a child to resist this mindset if by the time he is introduced to them, he is already anti-war, and sees nothing but the destructiveness of it. It is more constructive to introduce children to toys that encourage them to think, and that don’t impose ideologies on them; this should be a period of time that enables their brains to develop well enough to weigh different views, and see which one is the most beneficial to them as world citizens.

I, for one, ended up leaving the toy store with a puzzle - literally and metaphorically.

GO SPORT

HIP HOP FOOD SHOP Father and son duo create a hit!

By bazaar staff

Father and Son team Mario (II) and Mario Sanchez (III) came up with the idea of bringing together their two great loves, food and Hip Hop, after first arriving in Kuwait 8 years ago. Missing their home base of New York, and excited to bring some flavors from back home to the southern Kuwaiti neighborhood of Mangaf, they moved forward by paying equal homage to both. Their menu, versatile and accessible, can deliver good old-fashioned fast food from early in the morning, long into the wee hours of the night.

First the obvious: Hip Hop Food shop-we do wraps! It’s perfect, right? But all word play aside, they do actually offer much more than just these signature dishes. With a menu that includes hamburgers, chicken sandwiches, fish sandwiches, hot dogs, myriad sides as well as desserts-there is a bit of 104

something for everyone here. They now even offer all of their wraps in (substyle) sandwich form as well, for those with a penchant towards their more traditional sandwich brethren. With his wife helping both with recipes and in the kitchen, and his daughter aiding in bookkeeping, they are now a full-blown family operation. Launched in 2011, they are happy to be bringing their food to their neighborhood and to be serving their many regulars variations on American favorites.

Mario Sr. is quick to tell you who they are and who they are not. They are, simply put, a fast food joint with an aim to please that part of your taste buds that gets the hankering for Hamburgers, Wraps, and all things deep-fried. Yet they do so while maintaining a fun and hip ambiance in the restaurant, as well as a playful spirit throughout the menu.

Being Expats, their dream of launching

the restaurant could not have come true without first teaming up with one of Kuwait’s most respected businessmen (Ahmad Ali Farhat) who has been their support from the start.

Their sides prove equally versatile and, for the bigger groups or hearty eaters, even come as a sampler platter of all. The onion rings were a strong standout, as were the fries with cheese and bacon (normally beef bacon, though turkey bacon is also available on request).

Additionally, they have 4 different flavors of chicken wings and “poppin” chicken nuggets. The side dish offering is rounded out by Mozzarella sticks, a delicious take on Jalapeno poppers, and their very own Dynamite Shrimp, also their take on the spicy mayonnaise-based sauce that is so popular regionally.

A thing about wraps themselves, two notable things here is the Lebanese Saj type bread, which is baked fresh daily from one of the oldest purveyors in Kuwait. They also use a particularly interesting fold technique that may require an advanced degree in Structural Engineering to figure out. Anyone who has ever eaten a wrap or burrito knows that it normally takes the development of a particular talent to be able to eat

this type of an item without it falling apart and spilling food everywhere.

Apparently, they use some type of a “sealing” method here that keeps it all tucked in nicely; perfect for those who eat on the run.

For desserts they offer a constantly rotating offering of Frozen Yogurt flavors. However, for me, the Nutella and Peanut Butter wrap was a delicious take on a classic and interesting flavor combination that I cannot believe I had not tried before—delicious!

With delivery available from 8am to 2am they are prepared to meet your needs with breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And, as a 20 plus year devout vegetarian himself, Mario is quick to point out that they have a number of Vegetarian options as well. At a time when the ever-pervasive restaurant chain is popping up from block to block, it is great to see a family business still holding its own against the big boys.

The Hip Hop Food Shop is located in Mangaf, Block 4 Street 27 and is available by phone at 2371 4458.

You can also find them online at www.hiphopfoodshop.com or order through Talabat.

POSTA PLUS

bazaar goes cruising THE PORSCHE BOXSTER S Intelligent muscle and performance By bazaar staff

When it comes to style on the road there can be little disagreement that Porsche have blazed a trail of luxury and speed all their own. Since the day the first 356 models hit the ground (actually before, given the fact that they got orders before building these) 90 odd years ago, this German manufacturer of long coveted luxury automobiles has been synonymous with speed and luxury. When the Boxter line was launched in 1996, it quickly became their biggest sellers ever.

What is most easily apparent when driving the Boxster is that it is a leaner, meaner machine. To sit in the driver’s seat is to feel like stepping into a cockpit; you don’t just sit in a seat, but rather pour yourself into an automotive hug. While it is normally referred to as mid-engine sports car, it is important to note that you can get more speed put into it should you so desire. Additionally, since it has two added power-up buttons, Sport and Sport Plus, you can literally upgrade your driving experience at the push of a button. Lighter and more fuel-efficient, faster and more agile–with an all-new lightweight design and completely revamped chassis, the latest generation of the Boxster is setting new top scores for Porsche Intelligent Performance.

This lower weight, when combined with a longer wheelbase, a wider track, and larger wheels, 106

significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car’s driving dynamics. As an additional boost, they offer the Sport Chrono Package as an optional extra for the Boxster, featuring dynamic transmission mounts for the first time. Also new in this year’s model is Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with mechanical rear axle differential lock.

The superior performance of the newer models is also enhanced by the fact that it is up to 15% more fuel-efficient than its predecessors. They boast ultra-modern, direct fuel injection, six-cylinder engines and all variants get by with less than nine liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, the Boxster with PDK even managing with less than eight liters.

Even for Porsche, the changes in this year’s model when compared to last are significant, and noticeable at first glance. For example, the wheelbase has increased by 60 millimeters and the front track width by up to 40 millimeters and at the rear by up to 18 millimeters, as a result of which the wheels align flush with the body. The windscreen is flatter and set approximately 100 millimeters further forward; all in all the Boxster is up to 13 millimeters lower. While this might not seem like much of a difference, consider what that feels like when you are turning a corner at high speed-you basically feel like you are locked into a track. Together with its convertible top line, which

has been extended far to the back, the new Boxster cuts a very elegant silhouette. Another factor contributing to its sportier appearance is that the body is a mere 32 millimeters longer than before, while at the same time the overhang at the front has been reduced by 27 millimeters – if you like the compact roadster style, you are going to want to get one of these quick.

As for the design of the car itself, they additionally made several small changes that make for a big difference. For one, by moving the exterior mirrors up towards the vicinity of the upper edge of the door, there is a much sleeker look, as well as a better line of sight. The more distinctive shapes of the wings, doors, intake air guide and top further accentuate the wheel housing, though the layman may not notice it as much at first glance. The newly designed, larger alloy wheels further emphasize the car’s dynamics even when it is stationary. It comes with 18-inch wheels featured as standard; however, for the high-end enthusiast that wants to absolutely flaunt their way down the Gulf road on a Friday night, I recommend the even more imposing 19 or 20 inch wheels as optional extra—there’s nothing more sleek than a sports car pushing that wheel well full of chrome to capacity!

The new Boxster’s front-end is dominated by the large lateral radiator openings and the headlights.

Both the halogen headlights, which come standard, and the new Bi-Xenon headlights (standard for the Boxster S) were completely redeveloped. The headlights, also redesigned, with daytime driving and position lights in LED technology, are integrated above the striking air intakes.

The rear end of the new Boxster models have been completely redesigned: there is no longer any convertible-top compartment lid: rear wing and lights are linked by a prominent edge spanning the entire vehicle width and the central lamp unit located beneath it combines the rear fog light and reversing lights in one flat strip. And it all happens at the push of a button to boot. The new taillights, all in LED technology, are perfectly integrated into the rear apron, with their shape curving around the corner of the car. The redesigned tailpipes complete the deep, centered look. This is further emphasized by the diffuser, which spans the width of the vehicle. A characteristic feature of the Boxster is an oval tailpipe; though the S model has a twin-flow double tailpipe.

To increase efficiency, the boxer engines feature electrical system recuperation and map controlled cooling water thermal management. In terms of electrical system recuperation, the battery receives an increased charge during the braking or coasting phases. Reducing the generator charging current

with a full battery in turn reduces the load on the combustion engine during acceleration phases as the combustion engine does not have to sacrifice so much power for charging the battery. Thanks to the intelligently managed cooling systems shared by both engine and transmission, both of them reach their operating temperatures more quickly, meaning better combustion under partial load with less friction. To avoid any disadvantages under full load, the map-controlled thermostat – as required by the driver – very quickly reduces the temperature under full load even below the level of the predecessor model, thus ensuring an optimal charge and maximum performance. Moreover, Porsche is introducing the start/stop function for PDK and manual transmission in the Boxster as well.

The Boxster with PDK transmission is borrowing the principle of only drawing on engine power when it is actually needed from the new 911 Carrera- the call it coasting. What coasting means is rolling along without power, with the engine idling and with low fuel consumption to match. In practice, that means fuel savings of up to one liter per 100 kilo- meters with a forward-thinking driving style in everyday driving. Coasting is initiated by slowly taking one’s foot off the accelerator or by a manual upshift command if the highest possible gear given the driving situation already happens

to be engaged. Coasting is ended by accelerating, braking or by manually changing gear. Coasting is better for fuel consumption because it enables the vehicle to harness its kinetic energy and convert it into forward motion.

The gearbox is critical to driving performance, comfort and fuel consumption values. A six- speed manual gearbox is fitted as standard in the new Boxster models, the gear ratios being optimally matched to the engine characteristics. You can further drive it as automatic, or as manual via paddle shifters on the steering wheel. If you want to feel like a real sports car driver, this is the way to go. And, because they use the smart engine system, they will drop the gear down for you automatically, so you don’t leave the engine on the street behind you should you not downshift until too late! All in all, the smart design and efficiency of these cars, combined with all the makings of an absolute monster of a luxury sports car, make this a ride you need to get out and drive today.

The Porsche Boxter is available from Behbehani Motors Company. Visit their showrooms in Shuwaikh and on the Fourth Ring Road. For more information visit www.behbehanimotors.com.

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bazaar movie night The latest from the big screen playing in cinemas across Kuwait in May

IRON MAN 3

AT ANY PRICE

THE GREAT GATSBY

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Guy Pearce

Genre: Adventure, Family, Drama Cast: Zac Efron, Heather Graham, Dennis Quaid

Genre: Drama, Romance Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Carey Mulligan

Synopsis: Marvel’s Iron Man 3 pits brash-but-brilliant industrialist Tony Stark/Iron Man against an enemy whose reach knows no bounds. When Stark finds his personal world destroyed at his enemy’s hands, he embarks on a harrowing quest to find those responsible. This journey, at every turn, will test his mettle. With his back against the wall, Stark is left to survive by his own devices, relying on his ingenuity and instincts to protect those closest to him. As he fights his way back, Stark discovers the answer to the question that has secretly haunted him.

Synopsis: The son of a farmer defies his father’s wishes to take over the family business by choosing to become a professional race-car driver. Henry worked hard to maintain his father’s lucrative farming empire, but he plans to pass the business to his son Dean. Meanwhile, Henry immerses himself in his work and becomes more detached from his family. Later, as Dean rejects the agriculture life, the family business comes under fire during an investigation that could leave the entire clan in financial ruin.

Synopsis: An adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Long Island-set novel, taking place during the “Roaring Twenties”, a time of prosperity in the United States after World War I, where Midwesterner Nick Carraway (Tobey Maguire) is lured into the lavish world of his millionaire neighbor, Jay Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio). Soon enough, however, Carraway will see through the cracks of Gatsby’s nouveau riche existence, where obsession, madness, and tragedy await.

STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS

FAST & FURIOUS 6

THE HANGOVER PART III

Genre: Action, Sci-Fi, Adventure Cast: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto

Genre: Action, Adventure, Crime Cast: Vin Diesel, Paul Walker

Genre: Comedy Cast: Bradley Cooper, Zach Galifianakis

Synopsis: When the crew of the Enterprise is called back home, they find an unstoppable force of terror from within their own organization has detonated the fleet and everything it stands for, leaving our world in a state of crisis. With a personal score to settle, Captain Kirk leads a manhunt to a war-zone world to capture a one man weapon of mass destruction. As our heroes are propelled into an epic chess game of life and death, love will be challenged, friendships will be torn apart, and sacrifices must be made for the only family Kirk has left: his crew.

Synopsis: Since Dom and Brian’s Rio heist left their crew with $100 million, our heroes have scattered across the globe. But their inability to return home have left their lives incomplete. Meanwhile, Hobbs has been tracking an organization of lethally skilled mercenary drivers across 12 countries, whose mastermind is aided by a ruthless secondin-command revealed to be the love Dom thought was dead, Letty. The only way to stop the criminal outfit is to outmatch them at street level.

Synopsis: The Hangover Part III, reunites Bradley

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Cooper, Ed Helms, Zach Galifianakis and Justin Bartha as Phil, Stu, Alan and Doug. Also returning to the ensemble is Ken Jeong as Mr Chow, Heather Graham as Jade, and Jeffrey Tambor as Alan’s father. When Alan goes through a personal crisis, the Wolfpack is all he has to help him through. This time, there’s no wedding and no bachelor party. What could go wrong, right? But when the Wolfpack hits the road, all bets are off.

For more details on movie timings and the cinema nearest you, log on to www.cinescape.com.kw

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ECOSENSITIVE GETAWAY Matheran - India

By Sabiha Bilgrami

I am an ‘antiquiphile’. I love old people, places, jewelry, furniture, stories, movies - the works. I even love uncomplicated old technology mobiles. When it comes to holidaying in the summer, my favorite destination is definitely Matheran. It is beautiful, comfortable, ecofriendly, exciting, near and old enough to top my list. What’s more, its history is woven with so many cute human interest stories. For instance, if you have ever wondered about where an attitude of gratitude can take you, just read on about this real life story set in India during the British Raj. ‘Armed with all of five Indian Rupees, thirteen year old Adam and his parents left their impoverished village for Bombay. The young boy took to selling matchboxes at the roadside. Soon the monsoons arrived; the rains lashed the city and whetted the matches. Adam requested shelter under the protruding tin roof of a lawyer’s office. The kind lawyer agreed and the young boy continued to eke out a living. The boy ached to reciprocate the favor. When the rains subsided, he painted the lawyer’s premises without taking any remuneration for his efforts. This labor of gratitude was the stepping stone to a multitude of lucrative, future contracts. In time this teenager would be known as Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy, one of Bombay’s most successful and sought after business tycoons and 110

philanthropists. He would go on to become the first Indian Sheriff of Bombay and personally finance the Matheran Hill Railway in 1904. This Railway is currently a heritage railway passing through large swathes of forest territory connecting Neral with Matheran in the Western Ghats of India.’

Matheran, meaning jungle topped, rests atop the Sahyadri Mountains amid a shady forest crisscrossed with walking tracks and breathtaking lookouts. It is easily the most gorgeous of Maharashtra’s hill stations. This place beckons to all manner of tourists –the nature lovers and the historians, the adventurous and the laid back; the old and the young.

Matheran’s history dates back to the British era in India, with its discovery in 1850 by Hugh Malet (a British Collector for a nearby district). History and archaeology lovers, please note – Malet’s original dwelling in Matheran still stands tall and is preserved as a heritage site (ask for a tour of the Byke Resort).

What really sets it apart from other picturesque hill stations is its ‘No Entry’ policy for motor vehicles.

This place even follows a ‘no road tarring’ policy. The color code all over Matheran is Green and Red – Lush Green forest trees standing tall on the ubiquitous, Red laterite soil. Located at an elevation of about 800m above sea level, this place also boasts of incessantly

pleasant weather. It is the ultimate walker’s paradise.

Its panoramic views and breathtaking charms make it a photographer’s delight also.

For the dedicated trekker, few places can beat the charm of exploring this serene land on foot.

For the not so foot friendly, the explorations can be conducted on horseback. You can choose from a range of well trained, tourist friendly horses. While you haggle rates with their keepers, ask how the horses got their names (boldly emblazoned on the custom made saddles). Denace the Menace (not at all menacing), Double Trouble (a real sweetheart) and Hero have intriguing stories associated with them. The elderly, the expecting, the physically challenged and the un-enterprising have the option of roaming around in manual rickshaws.

Hotels, lodges and resorts offer various packages (easily checked on the internet). Lodging with just breakfast is recommended. This arrangement allows you to sample the ‘unlimited thaalis’ at various joints. Even loyal non-vegetarians will relish most of the ethnic Indian vegetarian cuisine.

As mementoes do pick up the tiny colorful leather slippers, the markets brim with. The dense forest also yields amazingly pure and delicious natural honey. Make sure you bring back lots and lots of it.

OISHII

bazaar health

THE ABYSS OF DEPRESSION

By Susannah J. Schuilenberg, PsyD

Depression is the most unpleasant thing I have ever experienced . . . It is that absence of being able to believe that you will ever be cheerful again. The absence of hope. That very deadened feeling, which is so very different from feeling sad. Sad hurts but it’s a healthy feeling. It is a necessary thing to feel. Depression is very different. ~ JK Rowling Depression has variously been described as ‘a black hole that swallows everything good’; ‘a bottomless pit into which all the light falls;’ or ‘an abyss; so deep as to be blackly bottomless, the edge of which is always too close to my feet.’

Sadness is an emotion that is part of the human condition, as is happiness, joy, anger, disgust, or excitement. Sadness is circumstantial and contextual. We can expect to feel different degrees of sadness when we experience any loss. We may feel a fleeting sense of sadness at losing a treasured pen, or we may be completely undone by sadness after losing someone we love. This is normal.

Depression is not like this. Depression is an internal emotional pain that won’t go away. The inner sense of self is gradually absorbed into a grey mist until it’s impossible to think of things that used to be enjoyable. It becomes an effort to do anything at all, and the simplest task takes forever because of drifting off into mental emptiness. While it is possible sometimes to identify an incident, which triggers the descent into depression, just as often it’s not. Physical symptoms and warning signs 112

that depression is a possibility include changes in sleeping habits, daytime irritability, withdrawal from friends/family, change in appetite, decreased motivation and initiative, loss of enjoyment in life, and when severe, an inner sense of darkness and pain that feels overwhelmingly heavy.

Fortunately, depression is one of the most researched forms of mental illness on the planet.

There is help available even here in Kuwait. Primarily, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been proven effective, however when the depression is severe, the most effective treatment is a combination of anti-depressant medication and therapy. When depressed clients come to see a therapist they often don’t have the mental, emotional, or psychological energy to invest in the process of getting better. That means they don’t really benefit from therapy. In that case, the recommendation is medication for 6 - 9 months while continuing CBT, with the eventual goal of tapering off the medication when the client has learned, practiced, and successfully implemented coping strategies, recovered emotional equilibrium, and feels fully functional again.

There are many different screens for depression and quite a number available free on the Internet. If you feel like you might be depressed, it won’t hurt to find a quick screen and answer the questions.

Same for a friend. If you think your friend may be depressed, suggest a quick screen. If the results indicate that depression is a possibility, see a

professional who can help you access the resources and help you need to make it better. Time and life tend to be the only treatment needed for sadness that comes from loss, but depression rarely resolves itself without help. In fact, data shows that without treatment, depression may last for years, eventually becoming a disorder that is very difficult to deal with.

On the other hand, effective treatment has been demonstrated to limit and sometimes eliminate the cyclic nature of depressive episodes.

Avoiding depression begins with good self-care.

Choosing to live life as if you matter to yourself. Proper, healthy lifestyle choices, maintaining a reasonable weight, regular exercise, and specific, planned time for mental, emotional, and psychological renewal.

Taking up or going back to a hobby or passion, getting involved in something enjoyable. Limit stress and stressful situations. All of these things will help, but it’s important to remember that a part of depression is genetic. So if you read this article and it feels like a description of you, give yourself a gift and ask for help. Life shouldn’t have to hurt.

Susannah J. Schuilenberg, PsyD, MA, MREd, RPC, MPCP, ACS is a Clinical Coordinator & Supervising Psychologist at Soor Center for Professional Therapy & Assessment. For more information, please call 2290 1677, visit www.soorcenter.com or follow their Tweets @SoorCenterQ8.

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AL ROUDAN FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT 2013 28 Days of games during Ramadan By bazaar staff

In 1979, when the late Abdullah Mishari Al Roudan passed away, a football tournament was developed in his honor to celebrate both his memory and achievements, and that of his generation as a whole. Given that The Holy Month of Ramadan is a time for daily fasting, and spiritual renewal, it was deemed the perfect time for an event meant to bring out the best in people and sports. Charity, as an 114

important part of Islam as a whole, is especially prevalent during this time. It is under this edict that the spirit behind the Al Roudan Football Tournament started 33 years ago.

It all started with humble enough intent and origin. Any 5 players could form a team, all teams would play each other, and in the end- one team would be victorious! This process of daily knockout style tournaments, where the loser is

out and the winner moves on to the next stage, would take place throughout the duration of Ramadan. The games themselves are meant to be a gift given to the people of Kuwait during this holy time. To this point, both the football tournament and corresponding Al Roudan Foundation are both non-profit organizations that put on these games as a free activity for multiple generations of families to get together during their time of fasting.

The tournament would stay in this form until 2007 when there was a deliberate effort to transform the event from a regional celebration to an international sports event (all whilst not losing sight of the original intent behind it). As such, they began to bring in World-renowned players and coaches, as well as continue to attract the best of Kuwaiti and regional talent.

Incidentally, 2007 was also the first time it was aired on national television. Given two different time slots, the first of which is live, from 3-6pm with a rebroadcast from 12 am to 3am, the event grew in terms of scope.

The introduction of international sports figures including Mr. Joan Laporta (in 2009) former president of Barcelona Football Club, no small feat given that at this time they were arguably the number one team in the world. In their words, “his down to earth mentality and willingness to interact with the fans helped to make it a tremendous event.” The Spanish media that followed him to Kuwait also proved to be the first international exposure for this event.

The number of internationally famous sports figures that have followed reads like a list of “who’s who” in world wide football: Massimo Moratti and the legends of Inter Milan in 2010, Roberto Carlos and Edwin Van Der Star in 2011, Luis Figo in 2012. Given this track record, one can only assume that their plans for 2013 will be equally legendary. Especially in light of the fact that as of last year, Luis Figo has been the first person named as an Ambassador to the Al Roudan tournament, charged with not only getting the word out about the tournament to fans, but also to fellow professional players alike.

With the addition, in recent years, of the Al Roudan Juniors Tournament in which children between the ages of 8 and 13 have the chance to play. This is done not just to give the children something fun to do, but to help to develop and showcase the talent of the next generation.

Since 2010, as the level of play has increased, the competition has gotten harder, thus the bar is set higher. That said, it is still possible for any group of 5 guys to to put a team together and play. The registration period is open for only

one day, for a 2-3 hour period. This has been out of necessity, as they normally get flooded with interested teams. There are a certain number of spots reserved for preselected teams including either international stars or past winners and favorites of the tournament. For the rest of you, that means a prequalification process that happens a couple weeks prior. That said, all the teams that register still get a chance to play. Not bad for an international event still on the grow, eh? During the actual event itself, the first 20 days are played by points, where the teams with the highest scores overall will move on to the next stage. Starting on the 21st day of Ramadan, they start the knockout tournament. This will take them from 38 teams down to the best 2 competing on the last day.

Every year they have a number of games, competitions, giveaways, and other interactive components that they like to keep as a surprise. So,

beyond just a spectator event there ends up being a much more interactive component to it. Though they are guarded as to what the exact details of what the updated challenges are, there are ones coming and each day it will be something new; additionally, you are entered in the contest just by showing up. They consider it like a family event given the tone and tenor of those who come. All the money that is raised from the sponsors of the event is managed by the Al Roudan Foundation and goes both towards a variety of charities, as well as putting on the following years events. Last year, for example, they had one promotion that asked people to come dressed in the authentic clothing of their dream destination, those who won were treated with free business class round trip air fare to that location. Another giveaway saw a Football inspired, daily 500KD cash-prize give away that rolled over every day until somebody could achieve the-eh, goal!

During the 28 days of games, a crowd of approximately 70,000 will fill the local stadium to witness the games. They recognize that to ask somebody to compete in this tournament during a time that they are fasting as well is, in itself, a feat that should not be overlooked here. The team that brings you the Al Roudan Tournament truly feel like they are making dreams happen, and that the corresponding charity they create by virtue of the games, are as important as the games themselves. They want to be part of the holy month by providing a needed entertainment to the community. Weather you are putting a team together as we speak, hoping to win a prize, or just showing up to watch a few gamesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;there is a little something here for everyone.

Al Roudan Football Tournament takes place during Ramadan and is free to all! See event info online at www.alroudanfootballtournament.com.

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bazaar techno Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic. ~ Arthur C. Clarke

FITBIT FLEX

WITHINGS WS-30 WIRELESS SCALE

TAKARA TOMY SCREEN CLEANING ROBOT

If you still haven’t picked up a Nike+ Fuelband or Jawbone Up, you ought to add the Fitbit Flex (KD 30) to your list of fitness trackers to check out.

Like the others, the Flex is designed to be worn on your wrist, and tracks your steps, distance traveled, calories burned, active minutes, and quality of sleep, all of which it syncs to your iPhone or Android device via Bluetooth 4.0. It can even vibrate to wake you up gently. Arriving this Spring in a variety of stylish colors.

The Withings WS-30 Wireless Scale (KD 37) sports builtin Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to let you keep track of your weight and BMI via the company’s own app or one of the 60 other apps that support it. After each weigh-in, it automatically uploads and syncs your weight data, but that’s not its only trick — it also automatically calibrates itself while you’re away, helps keep you in the same position for accurate measurements, and gets to know your weight, so it knows if it’s you on the scale or your roommate/spouse/overly curious dog.

We can’t say that we’ve ever been so exhausted or pressed for time that we couldn’t wipe down our mobile device screens. There must be someone out there for whom that’s one scrub too far, however, as Takara Tomy has just rolled out its Auto Mee S robot to do the job. Plunk the tiny cleaner down and it should bring a shine to a typical smartphone within four minutes, and a tablet within eight. It’s smart enough to detect the device’s edge while needing only a single AA battery to work for three hours.

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

www.engadget.com

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MiiPC ANDROID-POWERED PC WITH PARENTAL CONTROL

CUBESENSORS

BIKESPIKE

MiiPC (KD 28) is a personal computing device which runs on the Android operating system. Connect it to a computer monitor or TV and it instantly turns into a learning, media and entertainment system. Users can surf the web, play games, watch videos, edit documents, and run Android apps. Set up a different user account for each person in your family. It also provides parental control. You can set up guidelines for kids online activities, specifying apps and websites which get accessed, and giving you real-time monitoring, creating a safe and relaxed environment.

Optimize your living or working quarters by installing some CubeSensors (KD 70-100). These small cordless boxes continuously measure temperature humidity, noise, light, air quality, and barometric pressure and send all that data to the cloud so you can access it anywhere. Thanks to an intelligent app, they can send you alerts letting you know when it’s time to turn on the lights, aerate, humidify, crank the A/C, and more.

Available in a starter pack with a base station and either two or four included sensors.

Bike locks are all well and good, but if you really want to keep your bike protected, you need to outfit it with a BikeSpike (KD 40 and up). This small accessory attaches to your bike via a custom water bottle holder, and packs a GPS chipset, cellular antenna, and accelerometer into its small black body. Thanks to all that tech, you can monitor your ride’s location using a phone or computer, digitally “lock” your bike and get a push notification if it’s moved/tampered with, automatically alert contacts in the event of a collision, and monitor stats like distance, speed, and favorite courses.

www.miipc.com

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

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Summer Special

TIME TO CHILL

CAFE SUPREME LOLLI POP

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OREO FRAPPE

2.250 K.D

MELBA ICE TEA

For your delivery call: 2 575 88 50

2.150 K.D

Loaay's Two Cents Got business problems or challenges at work? With his Two Cents page, Loaay Ahmed shares his expertise in strategic management consulting to help managers, employees and entrepreneurs thrive.

Q

I know that outsourcing has its benefits, but it also increases cost and comes with the risk of losing control of some of your operations. Is there an ideal formula for it?

Almost all corporate activities can be viewed as some sort of outsourcing. For example, when you needed business cards you asked a printing press to print the layout designed by your agency. You didn’t grow trees and produce paper yourself. When you wanted to turn your vision into a running business you hired staff to help you reach your destination.

You didn’t perform all the roles like a one-man show. Outsourcing doesn’t always mean extra cost if it was part of your pricing policy. If you’re saving time or manpower by outsourcing, then that’s a lower cost. If you’re gaining a better quality by outsourcing, then that can lead to increased sales and/ or higher customer retention, which means additional revenue.

Outsourcing doesn’t mean forgetting about quality control though.

Look at what happened with the horsemeat debacle. The purchase managers trusted their suppliers and their own criteria and they forget or ignored the fact that putting unrealistic pressure on suppliers to constantly lower their prices can lead to such disasters. The ultimate aim is that nobody notices what you have outsourced. Take Bang & Olufsen TVs as an example. The fact that the actual screens on some of their models are outsourced didn’t affect delivering a great user experience. Outsourcing is nothing but a collaboration between two different groups for mutual benefits. Answering what, why, how and when to outsource is your guide to your own ideal formula...and that’s just my two cents.

Q

My employees keep running to me every time they face a problem. How can I teach them to think for themselves?

Centralized management exists when there’s one decision maker and many doers. The key to decentralize the workflow with your team is to empower others to take calculated risks and make their own decisions.

This means you will have to let go of some authority. By the way, if your first thought right now is, “What?! That’s really scary”, then it could be likely that you have the wrong team and that’s why you can’t trust them or that you have a centralized manager hiding in your mental closet.

People won’t bother coming up with solutions or options if they know that you’ll choose only your own. So, be honest with yourself and see if you’re shutting their ideas down most of the time. If you’re not, it’s also possible for people to give up when they’re demotivated by the centralized process and lack of empowerment.

Let’s assume for now, that they’re empowered and you didn’t encourage or set a centralized management style. In this case there are a few other options for why employees return frequently to their bosses: It could be a personality issue where they lack the ability to take risks or live with consequences; it could be that some of these challenges are new to them and they never came across them before; or it could be both previous options mixed with laziness. A job that needs someone who can take risks can’t fit an employee with a weak personality. There has to be a match between the personality and behavior of the position and that of the employee. Meanwhile, you can just ask them not to approach you with a problem without options of their own regardless of how bad they are... and that’s just my two cents.

Q

Our CEO doesn’t share details related to new deals when meeting prospects or even how they were turned into clients. Is that a fair practice or is he paranoid?

Some companies worry about sharing their techniques with the line managers in case they use them against the company when they join the competition or branch out on their own. Sometimes, the “technique” for closing those deals is just a straightforward bribery. Keeping such a thing a secret shared only between the CEO, the Chairperson and the CFO will be their first instinct considering that it’s an incriminating act and nothing to be proud of. However, if there’s no traffic under the table, fear of losing control or leaking secrets to competitors can drive companies to the darkest corporate abyss. Is it wrong of them to think like that? Not really. Is it going to make managing operations more difficult? Absolutely.

Apple, for example, shares any upcoming news or dates about marketing campaigns or new product releases with its employees only a few days before going live. Is it a crazy and stressful environment? You bet, but that’s how they see their business, a war. It’s a bit easier in the service industry because sharing techniques and coaching younger managers is expected. It also can’t cause detrimental damage to the business when employees leave, in most cases, mainly because each company has its own style of operation and brand positioning. Also, services are highly dependent on the characters of the people delivering – two pastry chefs following the same recipe won’t give you an identical cake. Bring it up casually to know where the company stands on such matters...and that’s just my two cents.

For Loaay Ahmed’s advice on business or work matters, send a short email to loaay@knightscapital.com. Please note that only the questions chosen for publishing will be answered.

Loaay Ahmed is a management consultant and strategic expert. To learn more about Loaay and his consulting service, strategic business therapy, visit www.knightscapital.com.

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SPRINKLES Red Velvet

A Beverly Hills original, now in Kuwait Ever since we opened the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s first cupcake bakery in Beverly Hills, Sprinkles Cupcakes have been a favorite treat for Hollywood stars and everyday people.

Each cupcake is baked from scratch daily and hand-crafted using the highest quality ingredients including sweet cream butter, bittersweet Belgian chocolate, pure Madagascar vanilla, fresh bananas, carrots, real strawberries and natural citrus zests.

The Original Cupcake Bakery Now baking at Grand Avenue - The Avenues Tel: 2228 3192

LOFAT JUNIORS

Abdulhadi Lost 33 KG, and you can do it too!

As many of us know, the battle to lose weight is never an easy one, filled with plenty of obstacles to overcome and endure. This was the case with Abdulhadi, the 14-year-old youth who has been suffering from obesity since the age of 13.

Deciding one day to start taking control of his life and health, and with the support of both his parents and Lofat Juniors, he was able to shed an astounding 33 kg in less than a year! In doing so, Abdulhadi is an inspiration to both teenagers and adults alike, and he was kind enough to share his story with us to motivate you to cut out those unhealthy eating habits!

When did you become unhappy with your weight?

Since my childhood, but at the age of 13 I decided to make a change.

What made you decide to lose weight?

I felt that my shape and body did not match my age. This actually affected my self-confidence, especially when I used to go shopping; it was really difficult to find clothes that fit my body. So I finally decided to change myself and start a new journey.

What were the most important changes you made to lose weight?

Changing the quality of the food I ate and reducing the portion size.

What was most challenging about losing weight?

I didn’t face any obstacles during my journey with Lofat Juniors because I have strong willpower and a true desire to reduce my weight.

Why did you choose Lofat?

People that I knew recommended Lofat Juniors due to its great taste in food and quality. That was a motive for me to try out their products, which are also conveniently found in supermarket fridges. So when I tasted their food, I was surprised because as we all know, low calorie foods are often tasteless and do not have any flavor, but with Lofat it was totally different. Also, Lofat Group was the first diet company that introduced the juniors program which is suitable for children aged between 6 and 16 years old. So I called them up and booked my first appointment.

How long did it take you to start to see results?

I started observing a difference after 4-5 months.

How long did it take for you to reach your current weight?

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It took around a year.

How long have you maintained your weight loss and how do you do it?

I started maintaining my current weight right after I joined Lofat Juniors through exercise and being committed to the meals.

How did Lofat help you reach your weight loss goals?

Through weekly follow-up consultations with my dietitian ‘Alaa Al Safei’, she encouraged and motivated me during the program by advising me on what to do which helped me lose weight in a healthy and safe manner.

How would you describe your health condition before you started your weight loss journey?

I used to get tired from exercises like walking and climbing up the stairs.

What motivated you to make a change? What keeps you motivated?

My parents were the main influence by being supportive, and also my gratitude to the Lofat staff helped me reach my goal.

Do you mind if we ask how much you have lost?

Not at all, I lost 33 kilograms since I first joined last year.

How have you done it? What’s your secret?

By being patient and having strong willpower, being motivated by my dietitian ‘Alaa’, and by exercising.

How is your health after losing the weight?

I feel light and fit, as I don’t feel tired anymore from exercising.

Has your weight loss improved other areas of your life?

I gained my self-confidence and felt I can live my life according to my age and practice any activity without feeling shy or tired.

Did you ever think you’d be where you are today?

I never thought I would reach this weight and shape ever in my life.

What are your future goals?

To continue on the same path and reach my ideal body weight.

Do you have any advice for others who would like to lose weight?

Willpower, patience, and hard work are the keys towards reaching an ideal weight. I advise everyone to join Lofat and you will feel the difference with your body. Good luck everyone!

To get started, visit www.thelofat.com, or call 2225 0650.

MAX

To download the Max app scan here

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www.maxfashionretail.com

FRESH FRUIT DONE RIGHT Chiquita + Fruit bar= 100% fruit By bazaar staff

Everybody knows that it can be quite hard to find fresh fruits and vegetables in the middle of the desert; that is, until now. With the opening of the Chiquita fruit bar there is now a place to go and get your fix for year-round fresh fruit without any additional added coloring, sugars, or preservatives. That they round out this offering with fresh salads, cut fruit, and ice creams to boot, 122

makes them my new favorite spot at The Avenues.

Now the cynic in me instantly says, but how is that possible? How is it that this one franchised juice bar that just opened has the access to fruits that many other more well-known smoothie shops and juiceries (yes, we are two steps ahead of Merriam Webster on that word-but its coming!) do not.

Quite simply-they are a subsidiary of Suma Fruits

International, a regional supplier of fruits to much of the retail public at large. What that means for you personally, is that no matter when you go to Chiquita fruit bar, you know that you are getting the freshest fruit around.

Many people know the Chiquita brand for its historical presence in the banana market. However, in recent years they have moved on to both other fruits, and other manners of getting them to you. With the launch of the Chiquita fruit bar in Kuwait we are treated to the first of its kind in the Middle Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;though I am sure it will not be the last. With a menu that is both fun and innovative, as well as more versatile than one would expect, they are poised to be your new favorite dropin to satiate that mid-shopping need to refuel.

For the straightforward juice and smoothie lover they have 4 categories: Pure Fruit, Cocktail Fruit, Shakes, and Power Smoothies. As the categories are mostly self-explanatory we shall, for now, let the names suffice. However, the one I personally tried was the Flower Power (off of the Power Smoothie menu)- a mix of pineapple, mint, coconut, and orange. This was probably the freshest juice I have

had since my last trip out of Kuwait, so to say the flavors were intense, unique, and a welcomed respite from the ubiquitous sugar and water added juices normally found, would be a vast understatement.

They also do have one in-house sweetener for you should natures normal nectar not be enough, yet even their answer to that, is another of mother natures natural solutions—agave! Basically, no sugar added and you wouldn’t even notice if I had not just told you, so there it is. They also have some additional add-ins like Acai, Aloe Vera, Guarana, and Propolis; all of which have their own unique herbal benefits for the modern juice enthusiast.

Their options of Bubble tea, which your correspondent was told is a drink for kids, only proves again that I am not completely an adult, as this may be my new favorite. A variation of Boba Tea (A Vietnamese tea that is more prevalent in parts of

the states like California, due to large Vietnamese populations) but here brought in for the fun that results from biting into them like a fruit version of something between pop rocks and bubble gum.

Picture a pea-size fruit-bubble that floats up through a (wider than normal) straw like Augustus Gloop in the latest Willy Wonka movie, and explodes in your mouth. With four flavors at hand, this could keep you busy for a while. I tried the Lychee version myself and it was dee-lish-ious! These are also done in a mix-and-match manner that allows you to pick from several options of Fruit, Tea, and Bubbles for a variety of flavor combinations.

For the ice cream options, all of the selections here are lesser calorie than their normal equivalents.

However, I would be doing a real disservice to just talk about how good they are for you. Texture wise they vary between what one might think of as normal ice

cream and gelato, with an occasional nod towards Icee’s. They have created some unique flavors for the local market that you cannot get anywhere else, the best of which include: Avocado (don’t be afraid-try it-seriously!), Date with Walnut and Banana, Banana Coconut, Apple Mint, and Mango.

Oh yeah, and one more thing that you heard here first: they sell whole coconuts! So don’t be surprised if you see me wandering aimlessly through the mall with a straw-in coconut, dreaming off to somewhere tropical while my friends get their shopping fix.

The Chiquita fruit bar is located in the new Souk section of Phase III of The Avenues. Find them online at www.chiquita-fruitbar.com or follow them on Twitter @chiquitabar_me, or on Instagram @chiquitafruitbar_me.

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PARTY LAND Where fun parties begin!

Party Land is the largest retail party supply store in Kuwait. It caters to your every party need, from a baby shower, birthday party to adult events and dinner parties.

The widest product selections are available including costumes, party themed supplies, giftwrapping items and a huge inventory of balloons. No party is ever complete without balloon decorations, and Party Land is equipped with state of the art equipment to print any design, or even logo, for your event or party. You can customize a message to a loved one, or jazz up a corporate event with customized balloon designs. We find out more about the ultimate party supplier company in this special interview.

How would you rate the competition?

In every industry, competition is always healthy and we have it in Kuwait, it’s always a challenge. Since we are the only one in the market focusing on retail supplies for parties and events we are able to differentiate ourselves from our competition.

What makes you different from other competitors?

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We have different ranges of products for party supplies, for example we have good quality supplies including balloons, costumes, party favors, and piñatas. When clients come to our stores they will find all of their party needs.

Are you pioneers in your field?

Party Land Kuwait has been established since 2001, and we have been the leaders in the market for the past 9-years. After that, other businesses have opened up, but they mostly focus on events.

How would you rate your experience since you opened?

The experience is amazing, as we are seeing our culture’s attitude change towards the idea of what they require from a party supplies business thus allowing us to better meet their event planning needs.

What are your plans for 2013?

We are excited for the future of our store in Salmiya in Symphony mall since we opened it last January. More importantly, we can’t wait for the Halloween season to start, as our customers will see a lot of new items.

Any plans for regional expansion?

Our plan is to open stores throughout the GCC

area, including Dubai, Qatar and Bahrain in the next 2 years.

What is your expansion vision?

Our expansion will stick to the same vision towards retail business all around the GCC, without doing events or private parties. We are going to make it easy for all customers to come to our stores and create their own themes and parties.

Why did you choose Symphony mall in Salmiya as a location for your new store?

We conducted market research for our clients and 85% chose Salmiya as a preferred location.

Given that we previously had a location in Marina Mall, Symphony Mall seemed like the perfect place, since it’s on the busiest street in Salmiya.

Are you thinking of any future branches in Kuwait?

One more store will open in Kuwait. Market research suggests we should head south to the Fahaheel area and we like to listen to our customer’s needs.

Do you consider yourself as a market leader?

If you ask any of our customers where is the best place to purchase party supplies, they will mention Party Land. Since we have opened the first party supplies retail concept in Kuwait, we have been the leaders in this field.

Will you be able to be a supplier for other small to medium enterprises working in the same field?

We are open to any small business and we will be helping them with any of our products.

We believe in establishing healthy relationships with our suppliers and equally we are doing the same, as we are taking on the role of supplying other stores.

What are your most popular services you offer?

Party Land is well known for balloon creations of all types, sizes, and colors. For the past 2 years we have added costumes for all ages and varieties, and this is another one of our strong selling points.

How do you rate your customer service?

For our business, clients come first! Without them, we wouldn’t still be standing. We are always looking to train our staff to better handle and assist our clients. Thankfully, we never had any issues with our clients so far, and we are working hard on making sure this never happens in the future.

Party Land Kuwait Shuweikh: 2481 8766 Symphony Mall: 6699 2364 Twitter: @partylandkwt Instagram: partyland_kuwait Facebook: PartyLand Kwt.

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Kitoko range has been inspired by the rich, natural resources of Africa and offers you an indulgent, sensory experience as well as a therapeutic approach to your daily hair care routine. Kitoko advanced hair therapy range are completely free from Sulphates, Parabens, Waxes and Mineral Oils.

Kitoko understands that whatever your style, we all want beautiful, youthful-looking, manageable hair that radiates health and vitality.

KITOKO Luxurious. Sensory. Scientific.

Combining nature & science to create a therapeutic approach to hair care.

Kitoko is available at TONI&GUY ALCorniche and it is exclusively distributed by beau-tique cosmetics international. Call us on 2225 1285 or find us online at: www.beau-tiqueonline.com facebook.com/beautiquecosmetics twitter.com/beautiquekuwait instagram.com/beautiquecosmetics

bazaar books Fiction reveals truth that reality obscures. ~ Jessamyn West

JOYLAND

GIVE AND TAKE: A REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH TO SUCCESS

WILD: FROM LOST TO FOUND ON THE PACIFIC CREST TRAIL

Z: A NOVEL OF ZELDA FITZGERALD

START

by Stephen King

by Adam Grant

by Cheryl Strayed

by Therese Anne Fowler

by Jon Acuff

A stunning new novel, will release June 4th, from one of the best-selling authors of all time!

Set in a small-town North Carolina amusement park in 1973, Joyland tells the story of the summer in which college student Devin Jones comes to work as a carny and confronts the legacy of a vicious murder, the fate of a dying child, and the ways both will change his life forever.

“I love crime, I love mysteries, and I love ghosts. That combo made Hard Case Crime the perfect venue for this book, which is one of my favorites.

I also loved the paperbacks I grew up with as a kid, and for that reason, we’re going to hold off on e-publishing this one for the time being.

Joyland will be coming out in paperback, and folks who want to read it will have to buy the actual book.” – Stephen King

For generations, we have focused on the individual drivers of success: passion, hard work, talent, and luck. But today, success is increasingly dependent on how we interact with others. It turns out that at work, most people operate as either: takers, matchers, or givers. Whereas takers strive to get as much as possible from others and matchers aim to trade evenly, givers are the rare breed of people who contribute to others without expecting anything in return.

Using his own pioneering research as Wharton’s youngest tenured professor, Grant shows that these styles have a surprising impact on success. Although some givers get exploited and burn out, the rest achieve extraordinary results across a wide range of industries. Combining cutting-edge evidence with captivating stories, this landmark book opens up an approach to success that has the power to transform not just individuals and groups, but entire organizations and communities.

A Best Nonfiction Book of 2012: The Boston Globe, Entertainment Weekly At twenty-two, Cheryl Strayed thought she had lost everything. In the wake of her mother’s death, her family scattered and her own marriage was soon destroyed.

Four years later, with nothing more to lose, she made the most impulsive decision of her life. With no experience or training, driven only by blind will, she would hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State—and she would do it alone. Told with suspense and style, sparkling with warmth and humor, Wild powerfully captures the terrors and pleasures of one young woman forging ahead against all odds on a journey that maddened, strengthened, and ultimately healed her.

When beautiful, reckless Southern belle Zelda Sayre meets F. Scott Fitzgerald at a country club dance in 1918, she is seventeen years old and he is a young army lieutenant stationed in Alabama. Before long, the “ungettable” Zelda has fallen for him despite his unsuitability: Scott isn’t wealthy or prominent or even a Southerner, and keeps insisting, absurdly, that his writing will bring him both fortune and fame. Her father is deeply unimpressed. But after Scott sells his first novel, This Side of Paradise, to Scribner’s, Zelda optimistically boards a train north, to marry him in the vestry of St. Patrick’s Cathedral and take the rest as it comes.

What comes, here at the dawn of the Jazz Age, is unimagined attention, success, and celebrity that will make Scott and Zelda legends in their own time. With brilliant insight and imagination, Therese Anne Fowler brings us Zelda’s irresistible story as she herself might have told it.

Wall Street Journal best-selling author Jon Acuff reveals the steps to getting on the right path in his new book Start: Punch Fear in the face, escape average and do work that matters. Over the last 100 years, the road to success for most everyone has been divided into predictable stages. But three things have changed the path to success: Boomers are realizing that a lot of the things they were promised aren’t going to materialize, and they have started second and third careers; technology has given access to an unprecedented number of people who are building online empires and changing their lives in ways that would have been impossible years ago. The days of “success first, significance later,” have ended. While none of the stages can be skipped, they can be shortened and accelerated.

There are only two paths in life: average and awesome. The average path is easy because all you have to do is nothing.

The awesome path is more challenging, because things like fear only bother you when you do work that matters.

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source: www.amazon.com

BAYAN DENTAL

‫?‪IS IT REAL‬‬ ‫بقلم‪:‬عبدالعزيز الحشاش‬

‫إنتشار برامج تلفزيون الواقع بكثرة في اآلونة األخيرة يعطي تأكيدا بأن للجمهور‬ ‫فضول ال ينضب وال ينتهي‪ ،‬فالمتابع لبرامج تلفزيون الواقع في أمريكا يجدها في‬ ‫ازدياد مستمر ‪ ..‬وكم من برنامج تلفزيون واقع ساعد في شهرة أناس عاديون وكم‬ ‫من برامج زادت من شهرة نجوم مشهورين‪.‬‬ ‫و أول برنامج في تلفزيون الواقع عرض في العالم كان عام ‪ 1973‬بالواليات‬ ‫المتحدة األمريكية واسمه «العائلة األمريكية»‪ ،‬ولكن أول برنامج على شاكلة‬ ‫الموجودة حالي ًا على الشاشات العالمية كان « سي‪ .‬أو‪ .‬بي‪ .‬اس‪ ».‬الذي انطلق في‬ ‫آذار‪ /‬مارس عام ‪ 1989‬على قناة «األم‪ .‬تي‪ .‬في»‪.‬‬ ‫و هذه بعض أنجح برامج تلفزيون الواقع‬ ‫‪THE BIGGEST LOSER‬‬ ‫‪PROJECT RUNWAY‬‬ ‫‪THE HILLS‬‬ ‫‪DANCING WITH THE STARS‬‬ ‫‪FEAR FACTOR‬‬ ‫‪THE BACHELOR‬‬ ‫‪THE AMAZING RACE‬‬ ‫‪AMERICAN IDOL‬‬ ‫‪THE REAL WORLD‬‬ ‫‪SURVIVOR‬‬ ‫و تعتبر هذه البرامج بحسب رؤية النقاد (وهي رؤية عادلة بحسب رأيي‬ ‫الشخصي) مفيدة و تضيف للمشاهد‪ ،‬ولكن هذا ال يعني أن هناك مجموعة من‬ ‫البرامج التي لم تضف للمشاهد شيء يذكر بل لألسف أساءت للمشاهد و خدشت‬ ‫حياءه‪ ،‬مثل البرنامج الشهير‪:‬‬ ‫‪keeping up with the kardashians‬‬ ‫الذي أطلق شهرة عائلة نجمة المجتمع األمريكي‬ ‫‪kim kardashian‬‬ ‫(ولدت كيم في الواليات المتحدة ألب أمريكي من أصول أرمنية وأم أمريكية من‬

‫أصول هولندية اسكتلندية ‪ .‬سبق لكرداشيان الزواج من المنتج الموسيقي دامون‬ ‫توماس في عام ‪ 2000‬ثم طلقا في ‪ .2004‬ثم تزوجت من العب كرة السلة كريس‬ ‫همفريس في أغسطس ‪ 2011‬بحفل زفاف أسطوري لكن سرعان ما تطلقت في‬ ‫‪ 31‬أكتوبر ‪ 2011‬بعد زواج دام ‪ 72‬يوما فقط بسبب مشاكل اليمكن حلها)‪.‬‬ ‫ويبدو أن مثل هذه األحداث التي ترافق حياة هذه الشابة التي تستحوذ على‬ ‫اهتمام وسائل االعالم العالمية تشد العالم لها بكل خطوة تخطوها‪.‬‬ ‫لست ضد مثل هذه البرامج وكما ذكرت فإن فضول اإلنسان في حالة تعطش‬ ‫مستمر للتطفل على حياة اآلخرين و لكن هل نحن في حاجة لمعرفة الكثير لدرجة‬ ‫أن تؤثر على أخالق أبناءنا و تفسدهم؟‬ ‫إذا كان هذا التوجه القادم لإلعالم فإننا في خطر كبير‪ ،‬نتمنى من وسائل‬ ‫إعالمنا العربية أن ال تحذو حذوه ‪.‬‬ ‫برأيي الشخصي إن برامج تلفزيون الواقع التي تقوم على فكرة المسابقات و‬ ‫التنافس الذي ينتج عنه اكتشاف مواهب أو الفوز بجوائز كبيرة هي برامج تستحق‬ ‫االستمرارية و التميز‪ ،‬ولكن البرامج التي يكون الغرض منها التباهي بثروة نجومها‬ ‫وحياتهم التي ال فائدة يستفاد منها فمصيرها الزوال و ستكون موضة وستنتهي‪.‬‬ ‫يذكر أن أهم برامج تلفزيون الواقع العربية الشهيرة هي ‪ :‬برنامج سوبر ستار و‬ ‫برنامج أراب أيدول و أراب غوت تالنت و كذلك برنامج الوادي الشهير الذي كانت‬ ‫تقدمه الفنانة هيفاء وهبي ‪.‬‬ ‫هل نحن بحاجة إلى برنامج تلفزيون واقع عربي ؟!‪..‬‬ ‫نعم ‪ ..‬نحن بحاجة إلى برامج تفيد المشاهد و تضيف إليه ‪ ..‬نحن بحاجة إلى‬ ‫تميز و تفرد فيما نقدم و ليس نسخ لبرامج أمريكية قد تنجح في مجتمعهم و ال‬ ‫تنجح في مجتماعتنا العربية ‪.‬‬ ‫أما السؤال األخير الذي يطرح نفسه ‪ :‬هل هذه البرامج واقعية ؟ أم أنها‬ ‫سيناريوهات محبوكة لزيادة البهارات فيها ؟!‪..‬‬ ‫ينكر أصحاب المهنة أن تكون مكتوبة مسبقا ‪ ..‬و يؤكد الخبراء أنها متقنة‬ ‫الكتابة و على أيدي كتاب متمرسون ‪ ..‬واإلجابة تبقى للمشاهد الذي له حرية‬ ‫اإلختيار إما أن يصدق أو ال يصدق‪.‬‬ ‫‪128‬‬

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COLD. RUSSIAN. WINTER. Off-season travel as time machine By bazaar staff

There is a delicate balance that must be struck in travel. While many will speak of their exotic locations whilst doing a delicate dance of complain-bragging of the hardships endured while abroad—the full truth is, of course, that most of us want both. We want the full and authentic experience of a place un-touched; yet, we also would love an actual bathroom and relative safety. So picky!

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For most of the early 90’s, as Eastern Europe began to make travel easier for Westerners, for example, there was mythical talk of huge and flavorful cultural indulgences in Praha (Prague) for a fraction of the cost; beers this big for a nickel—they would say while mimicking what must have been the largest stein in history. One simply had to get there before it was too late. Alas, it is. The trail is well worn and both the deals and the untouched experience of Soviet influenced

Eastern Europe have mostly given way to cultural gentrification, long lines, and overpriced hawk-like souvenir-slingers.

However, for those still in the hunt, the off-season trip can be a great way to recreate the local experience that eludes us once the coach’s full of octogenarians show up. Such is the case with a recent trip to Russia.

Now, first the caveats: it would be fair to suggest that Russia, specifically Moscow, is no longer particularly exotic. However, to them I would say-go in the dead of winter, and then lets talk. The reality is, for much of these northern countries, the winters are so unbearably cold that those of us in the more temperate parts of the world would neeeeeee-ver think of going off-season.

Plus, the visa process can be a bit of a pain, admittedly.

Still, in doing so we were able to find the excitement, exhilaration, and cultural payoff that can only be found by being completely out of your element.

The first morning after arriving in Moscow was spent in a direct beeline towards Red Square.

Despite it being -18 Celsius it was still a tremendously exuberant and exhilarating experience. To first see the grandeur that is the Red Square with the onion domes of St. Basils Cathedral and the outside of the Kremlin running the length of the Western side, is to instantly be in awe of the military might that was the Russian empire. Unfortunately, Leninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tomb is temporarily undergoing a refurbishing that kept me from seeing the wax like icon. The obligatory Church gazing is also wonderful, and a trip through the Kremlin itself

absolutely is just the tip of the iceberg for the traveler who wants to experience it all. One unexpected surprise that I almost could not be bothered to get out of bed for: Gorky Park in winter. Not just because of the grandeur of wide-open riverside spaces in the midst of a bustling city, all while the ice-crusher tour boats float slowly downstream in the background, but specifically for the winter wonderland that the park itself becomes. In addition to lights put up in decoration throughout, there was the unexpected surprise of the largest full path outdoor ice-skating rink. In fact rink is not the word for it (though there is a rink-like part), it is mostly all the normal lanes and ins and outs a park would have where you could skate for twenty minutes and never hit the same part twice.

There is a huge wooden structure for non-skaters to navigate in maze-like fashion all around you, as well as more than 5 different snack and drink places that you could pull off to while skatingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; just like refueling the car here. Throw in lights, music and the snowboard ramp set up for a flipping exhibition and you have a wonderful winter play land.

A note about the metro: I read in a guide book that in Russia, if you need help, about the 9th person will come to your aid, I found this to be the truth, give or take a cold shouldered Russian snub or two. That said, the one who does help you tends to be amazingly nice and eager to help regardless of language barriers. Never are these differences in language more apparent than when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re in the continued on next page...

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subway here. First there is the transliteration issue (a process by which you take the letters from one alphabet and attempt to represent them in another) of turning the Russian variant of the Cyrillic alphabet into the Latin alphabet- to deal with, then, trying to translate that into English takes an additional step; not undoable, just harder. However, even given these linguistic asides, the Moscow metro, once you get to know it, is actually quite simple. Despite the roughly 5 lines that go through the city center and one that goes in a huge circle around the city, there is a little trick here. If you are used to subways in NYC or other big cities, than you know that you can have as many as 3-5 lines that all go through the same platform, so that getting on the first coming train could take you anywhere. However, here, each line only goes to 132 continued from previous page...

one platform, thus, as long as you are pointed in the right direction you are good to go. To get on another train you will always go up some stairs and down into a different tube. The ease that is the subway system here ends up being a huge benefit as taxis are not only expensive, but also prove to be the Russian equivalent of being stuck behind an accident, even on side streets.

While I am normally the first to suggest renting a car in any place, due to a want to explore and see random sites, here to do so seems almost a detriment.

So, we forgo the rental in lieu of an overnight train to St. Petersburg- a straight shot north in the dead of night in the cold Russian winter. If you love novels it is hard to not be romantic about it. However, for the non-literary traveler, it was functionally terrific. We

booked a private cabin, delivered with drinks, snacks, waitress service, beds, and breakfast service, plenty of room for the bags. Basically you go to sleep in Moscow and wake up in St. Petersburg.

For those of you who have been here before, you know the huge cultural secret that is the beauty of St. Petersburg. In fact, I scarcely want to tell you about it, less you all go and ruin it for me next time. But, again here we have all the literary bang you’d expect, from Pushkin’s apartment where he left to dual that fateful winter morning over a man trying to steal his wife, to the equally compelling Dostoyevsky house and museum, to the great bronze horseman statue of literary lure, to even the spot where Rasputin’s body was dumped into the river after being poisoned during a card game (as legend has it, he was poisoned, then shot, but it was actually the frigid water that killed him). All that and we haven’t even touched on the two weeks I got lost and wandered aimlessly throughout the Hermitage. What is additionally nice here though is a bevy of little side allies and shops with amazingly flavorful takes on traditional Russian dishes-truly wonderful. I made a special point of checking an army surplus shop on the industrial side of town just for the amazing glimpse into history to bring home with me- well worth it.

Really there is more to see here than such limiting bi-lines will allow for. Russia, for all its intimidating historical rhetoric about differences in people was well worth any effort put out to get the people to warm up a bit. I highly recommend it. Beyond all destination specific advice, in going off-season and at an otherwise unwelcoming time weather-wise, you can recreate a time in history that has most likely been lost by sheer virtue of the fact that you are planning to go there (the money saved, though notable, is just a fun side benefit).

Russia can be found in Russia. Don’t go; you will only make it worse for the rest of us!

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DESTINATION XL Tel. +965 2577 0506 Salmiya - Symphony Mall - basement DestinationXL Kuwait

@DXLKuwait

DXLKuwait

MADDEN FEVER Steve Madden at The Mall By bazaar staff

Madden fever comes about as a result of a dizzying array of beautiful shoes and accessories that literally takes you through the highs and lows of fashionable footwear. Once inside the Steve Madden store located at The Mall-The Avenues, resisting the temptation to re-invent your entire shoe wardrobe will be a challenging one, to say the least. Our sure-fire medical advice to combat this fever is to simply buy a pair of Madden Shoes.

Not only is Steve Madden considered as America’s most successful shoe designer, this footwear Mogul is the principal designer behind the company’s trendsetting shoes over the last twenty years. Starting off with only $1100 in his bank account, the Madden brand evolved into an enterprise from humble beginnings in a small Queens-based factory in 1990. Perhaps you already recognize the ‘Madden’ style inspired by the rock and roll stars of the 1970s; enter the chunky, redefined, and reinvented version of platform shoes, marking this style as his signature look that skyrocketed Steve Madden into the 134

shoe world hall of fame (one does exist. If not, then it totally should!).

With evolution at the heart of his vision, Steve finds his inspiration from people, “What inspires me is what I see people wearing on the streets of the world from New York to London and beyond. I get my ideas and inspiration from pounding the pavement all over the world. Today, fashion is dictated by individual style. To me, the fashion of the future is anything that a young guy or girl feels good wearing, as long as it’s put together in the right way.”

For summer 2013, prepare to fashionably pound those city streets in full Madden style. From sculptured wedges, hi-tops, edgy studs in all styles, dress heels and flats in the brightest of colors, your footwear will match your individual style. And, that’s exactly what Steve wants! The color palette for summer is brighter than ever, including electric blues, fiery reds against a backdrop of metallic shades.

Where high heels are concerned, don’t forget to check out the limited edition Betsey Johnson collection for Steve Madden. A whimsical celebration of vintage, colors and stunning paisley

prints that will make for absolutely show-stopping footwear. For dressier styles, you will love high heels with dainty ankle straps. Crystallized, patent leathers, studded, you should also get your hands on the DYV INE T-strap sandal provides Studio 54 retro flair with all over suede upper, over lasted platform front, and an alluring gold metal covered block heel.

The stud trend is in full play this summer, and you should definitely get your footsies in some colored studs flat sandals! In hot pink and green studs, your tan never looked better! Rock the hitop trend, also offered in faux snakeskin, or suede shades with spiked studs.

Perhaps my favorite aspect of the summer collection is the stunning selection of wedges on display. Platform wedges that boost height without compromising comfort, dressier styles in gold, python prints, studded details and much more! You also can’t miss the Skylur, a sleek and architectural shape, studded, and trimmed, fierce yet feminine! For lovers of flats, make sure you get your hands on the sparkly, smoking Conncord slipper, with an all over crystallized upper in either fuchsia

multi-color or leopard print and works for day or evening wear. Or opt for a rhinestone-covered stunner as an alternative to leave many shoe-struck.

Men are never forgotten, as the summer collection brings the promise of comfort and style in the form of the Madden summer espadrille. Consider your chicest loafers with a summer twist, soft canvas material, and soft insoles. From contemporary kicks of a heritage-like nature to classic oxfords that are refurbished with their own modern spin, there are tons of options here. Additionally, though not a principal part of the line, the boots that they have are also worth a try-on.

If you’re looking to match up your fierce new shoe collection with some bags, then don’t forget to check out Madden’s incredible collection of styles for the summer. Studded (of course!) satchels and roomy totes, against a back-drop of color-blocked metallics and cross-body styles.

The Steve Madden store is located at The Mall area at The Avenues in Phase III. For more information, please visit stevemadden.com or call 2220 0547.

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THE (F)LAWS OF ATTRACTION Why we love TV’s most deeply flawed characters

By Jennifer Miller

We’ll forgive Dexter a little serial killing. But what about Don Draper?

For years we’ve tuned into Breaking Bad, Homeland, or Dexter and watched really horrendous things happen. Blood splatters as Dexter plunges his knife. Walter White hacks up bodies and cooks meth. And Nicholas Brody plots to blow up himself along with half the U.S. government. But, as these shows’ long-term success suggests, we like these guys.

They may not be aspirational, but we’re rooting for them. We kind of, maybe, understand why they’re so damn angry and violent. And this makes all of their plotting and killing seem, well, not so bad.

A new study from the University of Colorado conducted by Maja Krakowiak and Mina Tsay-Vogel, explains why. What Makes Characters’ Bad Behavior Acceptable? The Effects of Character Motivation and Outcome on Perceptions, Character Liking, and Moral Disengagement, was published this March in Mass Communication and Society. It’s a mouthful, but it boils down to this: When we sympathize with a character’s motivations for committing a heinous act, we’re likely to excuse that character’s actions.

Obviously, this doesn’t always work in the real world. That’s because of moral disengagement: what the authors call our ability to suspend disbelief in the realm of entertainment. It’s the psychological reason we can keep watching all this stuff without feeling utterly disgusted.

But shows today are much more concerned with the morally ambiguous hero (or antihero) than they used to be. “Superman is clearly a hero and Darth Vader is clearly a villain,” says Tsay-Vogel. “But morally ambiguous characters fall into both camps simultaneously.”

In the study, Tsay-Vogel and Krakowiak had participants read a story about two mountain climbers, Craig and John. At a certain point, John becomes ill and Craig abandons him on the mountain. In one version of the 136

story, Craig leaves his friend to help another group of climbers in trouble.

In another version, Craig leaves because he’s so eager to reach the top of the mountain. In some versions of the story, John dies; in others he lives.

“We discovered that motivation played a bigger role than outcome in terms of how the reader felt about Craig,” says Tsay-Vogel. In other words, it doesn’t really matter whether John lives or dies, as long as Craig’s motivation for leaving him is altruistic instead of selfish.

And that’s why we sympathize with Dexter, who only kills other killers, and Walter White, who is trying to provide for his family. Similarly, Nicholas Brody feels that the U.S. government is refusing to take responsibility for the innocent children who died in drone strikes.

The theory doesn’t seem to hold up though with a character like Mad Men’s Don Draper. Don never (directly) kills anyone, outside of a fever dream; his actions are less morally despicable than Walt’s and Dexter’s. Notwithstanding the dual identity wrinkle, Don is bad in more identifiable ways--cheating, dissembling. But his motivations aren’t always clear, and certainly not always selfless. So…do we like him? Or does he just look so good in a suit we overlook his foibles? “If a character isn’t predictable, we have to reevaluate the character each time,” says Tsay-Vogel. “Someone who is inconsistently morally ambiguous could be seen as more evil because their intentions can change.”

Tsay-Vogel is currently working on a study that looks at Harry Potter characters to explore the continuum of moral ambiguity, including characters with shifting intentions. They’re also looking to see how genre affects our perception. They’re particularly interested in reality television, which is a bizarre simulacrum of real life. Does moral disengagement work in reality TV? Tsay-Vogel doesn’t know for sure. She can only attest to how much we love reality show villains. “It makes for really good television,” she says.

NASSER SPORT (RIDER)

bazaar around town GULF BANK HOSTS INJAZ KUWAIT JOB SHADOW PROGRAM FOR STUDENTS FROM ABDULLAH AL RUJAIB BOYS SCHOOL The Bank hosts Abdullah Al Rujaib School students to support the development of Kuwait’s future business leaders Gulf Bank recently hosted a Job Shadow day as part of INJAZ Kuwait’s Program.

During comprehensive sessions held, 23 students from Abdullah Al Rujaib Boys School received presentations from Gulf Bank personnel about the banking industry and the skills required to succeed in a modern office environment.

The day included visits to two different Gulf Bank branches. The students first visited Al Saleh Building, where they met with the Bank’s Learning and Development Team for a brief introduction about job functions at the Bank. Each student received a booklet about Gulf Bank’s history, vision, promises, and core values to help them better understand how the Bank operates. Following this initial session, students were split into group for branch visits, visiting either Audiliya branch or MAK branch, to see firsthand how the Bank interacts with its customers and delivers its services.

At the end of the sessions, the students met with the Executive Manager of Learning & Development, Human Resources, Mr. Zeyad Al-Resheed, who provided them with some advice and guidance that might help them develop their problem-solving skills and overcome the challenges in different working areas, especially in the banking sector, with the view to encourage them in the future to join Gulf Bank which provides suitable job opportunities for young talents.

Gulf Bank’s partnership with INJAZ Kuwait on the Job Shadowing program is based on the Bank’s 2013 Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy, which is focused on the two critical areas of youth and education. The Job Shadowing program gives the Bank an opportunity to present itself to Kuwait’s future business leaders, increasing their understanding of the banking industry and demonstrating the importance of operating as a team. Gulf Bank looks forward to building a prosperous future for Kuwait’s next generation and by joining forces with INJAZ Kuwait the Bank is confident of achieving great results.

AUDI DELIVERS 100TH CUSTOMER RACE CAR Newcomer to Audi Sport customer racing: Team MS RACING is switching to Audi and will be fielding two new R8 LMS ultra cars in the 2013 ADAC GT Masters. Recently, quattro GmbH handed over the 100th race car from Heilbronn-Biberach, a facility of the Neckarsulm location, to the squad.

For the customer sport project that has only been in existence since 2009, this vehicle handover marks a symbolic milestone as quattro GmbH delivered the 100th race car based on the Audi R8 to a customer only four years after the program was launched. The Audi R8 LMS ultra, meanwhile embodies the third evolution of the GT3 model. For the United States, the line-up also includes a GRAND-AM version that won the GT class at the Daytona 24 Hours in January.

“We’re delighted about Team MS RACING having opted for Audi for the first time,” emphasizes Franciscus van Meel, Managing Director of quattro GmbH. The wholly owned Audi subsidiary based in Neckarsulm develops, produces and sells the customer sport race cars of the brand with the four rings.

“OPTOMETRY PROGRAM FOR THE KUWAITI YOUTH” HASSAN’S OPTICIAN COMPANY VISITS KUWAIT SCHOOLS Hassan’s Optician Company began it’s visits to the schools of Kuwait in order to start implementing the optometry program for the Kuwaiti youth that is being held on the basis of it’s commitment to its social responsibilities.

A delegation of administrators, doctors and Optometry technicians working in the company head to Hawally to the Intellectual Educational Rehabilitation School for Girls, part of the Special Educational Schools Administrations, where members of the school’s educational and administrative body led by the principal, Ms. Naeema Al Obeid welcomed them.

During their visit, Hassan’s Optician technicians and doctors examined and tested the young girl’s vision to make sure they don’t suffer from any optical problem or if they need to wear glasses and gave them certificates and gifts for having completed successfully the tests.

Thanks to their commitment and continuous modernization program with innovative solutions for customers in the fields of Ophthalmic glasses, Sunglasses and Medical and Cosmetic Contact Lenses, Hassan’s Opticians have been proudly serving the residents of Kuwait for over six decades.

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‫إفتتاح مطعم «فيجز من تود إنجلش» الثاني في الكويت في الغراند أفنيو‬ ‫تم إفتتاح مطعم “فيجز من تود إنجلش” في الغراند أفنيو بمجمع األفنيوز‪ .‬ويعتبر هذا المطعم الثاني‬ ‫لفيجز من تود إنجلش في الكويت حيث افتُتح الفرع األول في مول الـ ‪ 360‬مستقطباً العديد من محبي‬ ‫مطاعم تود إنجلش وخاصة البيتزا‪ .‬يتميز مطعم فيجز الجديد بديكوراته العصرية المحاكية للعناصر‬ ‫التقليدية خاصة الفرن الحجري الذي يمثل بؤرة المطعم والذي يقدم بيتزا تود إنجلش الشهيرة‬ ‫المستطيلة التي تتميز بطبقتها الرقيقة التي تعلوها مكونات متنوعة عالية الجودة الى جانب األطباق‬ ‫األخرى الجديدة التي حوتها قائمة الطعام المشتملة على المقبالت‪ ،‬والسلطات‪ ،‬واألطباق الرئيسية‪،‬‬ ‫والحلويات‪ ،‬والمشروبات بأنواعها‪.‬‬ ‫قام إنجلش بتأسيس عدد من أنجح المطاعم فبعد إطالقه لمطعم أوليفز في ‪ 1989‬في‬ ‫ماسوشيستس الذي ذاعت شهرته محليًا وعالمياً بمأكوالته المتوسطية‪ ،‬وانتخابه كأفضل مطعم‬ ‫جديد واحتالله المرتبة األولى بين أفضل المطاعم في بوسطن من خالل استفتاء أقامته شركة‬ ‫زاغات؛ تم افتتاح أفرع أخرى له في الس فيغاس ونيويورك‪ .‬وبعد نجاح مطعم أوليفز المدوي قام‬ ‫تود إنجلش بتأسيس مطعم فيجز العملي الذي يقدم البيتزا التقليدية والباستا المصنوعة يدوياً ما‬ ‫منحه جائزة “الهوت كونسيبت” المقدمة من قبل نايشنز ريستورانت نيوز‪ .‬أما اليوم فتنتشر خمسة‬ ‫أفرع لمطعم فيجز في بوسطن‪ ،‬بالم بيتش‪ ،‬وجزيرة نانتوكيت الراقية‪ ،‬وأجددها في منطقة الشرق‬ ‫األوسط وتحديداً في الكويت في مول ‪ 360‬ومطعم فيجز في الغراند أفنيو بمجمع األفنيوز الذي تم‬ ‫كشف النقاب عنه مؤخراً‪.‬‬ ‫يعد تود إنجليش األمريكي من بين أبرز الطهاة الحائزين على عدد من الجوائز خالل مسيرتهم‬ ‫المهنية الى جانب نشره ألربعة كتب طبخ وتأسيسه لعدد من أشهر المطاعم في الواليات المتحدة‬ ‫ولديه مطعم خاص باسمه في سفينة كوين ماري‪ .‬بدأ تود إنجلش مسيرته المهنية في عالم الطبخ‬ ‫في سن مبكرة وهو في الخامسة عشرة من عمره حينما دخل ألول مرة أبواب المطبخ الحرفي‪ .‬وعندما‬ ‫أصبح في العشرينات التحق بمعهد الطبخ األمريكي وتخرج في عام ‪ 1982‬مع مرتبة الشرف‪ .‬استمر‬ ‫تود في ممارسة حرفته في مطعم نيويورك الشهير ال كوت باسك لكن ما لبث أن تحول اهتمامه الى‬ ‫المطبخ اإليطالي فانتقل الى إيطاليا حيث تدرب في مطعم دال بيسكاتوري ومطعم باراكوتشي‪.‬‬ ‫وفي عمر الخامسة والعشرين عاد إنجلش الى الواليات المتحدة األمريكية وقد تلقى طلبًا من مطعم‬ ‫ميشيال اإليطالي الشمالي في منطقة كامبريدج‪ ،‬ماسوشيستس ليصبح الشيف التنفيذي لهم على‬ ‫مدى ثالثة أعوام‪.‬‬

‫أغنر – بوتيك جديد في األفنيوز‬ ‫افتتحت شركة الطرف األغر بوتيكها الثاني ألغنر في سكند أفنيوز – األفنيوز‪ ،‬حيث تعتبر أغنر الماركة األلمانية األكثر شهر ًة‬ ‫بين الماركات الفخمة واألنيقة‪ .‬إذ تشهد مجموعة أغنر المصمّمة في ميونيخ طلبا متزايدًا عليها في كافة المواقع العالمية‬ ‫المرموقة من جاكرتا‪ ،‬سيول‪ ،‬تايوان‪ ،‬هونغ كونغ ودبي‪.‬‬ ‫لقد حقق إيتيان أغنرالمجريّ الجنسية أولى نجاحاته في فترة الثالثينات بصفته مصمّم حقائبَ نسائية في معارض‬ ‫األزياء الراقية في باريس‪ .‬وقد أتبع ذلك عرض مجموعته الخاصة في فترة الخمسينات عندما أبصر شعار حدوة الحصان‬ ‫النموذجيّة على شكل “‪ ”A‬النور للمرة األولى‪.‬‬ ‫وسرعان ما ذاع صيت ماركة أغنر من نيويورك إلى ميونيخ بإعتبارها محط إعجاب وتقدير طوال فترة الستينات والسبعينات‪.‬‬ ‫لم يعد شعار الحدوَة مجرّد رمز زخرفي وحسب بل أصبح تعبيرا صادقا عن نمط الحياة السائد في ذلك الوقت‪.‬‬ ‫تنتشر أغنر في كافة أنحاء العالم وذلك في ‪ 105‬محل تجاري و‪ 450‬نقطة بيع‪ .‬وقد أصبح اإلرث الذي بناه إيتيان أغنر في‬ ‫عُهدة المديرة التنفيذية األولى سيبيل شون منذ العام ‪ .2008‬أما اليوم فقد أصبحت هذه العالمة التجارية ماركة عالمية‬ ‫منتشرة في ‪ 47‬دولة في أوروبا وآسيا وأفريقيا فض ً‬ ‫ال عن مناطق التجارة الحرة بد ًءا بـميونيخ ووصو ًال إلى شنغهاي‪.‬‬

‫‪KIDZANIA KUWAIT TO TAKE OFF WITH QATAR AIRWAYS‬‬ ‫‪KidZania Kuwait officially announces its partnership with Qatar Airways, one of the world’s fastest‬‬ ‫‪growing airlines, as the latest sponsor to join the children’s city’s interactive learning experience. In line‬‬ ‫‪with KidZania’s award-winning approach to edutainment, Qatar Airways will sponsor both KidZania‬‬ ‫‪Kuwait’s Airport counters and the Airplane establishment where children will gain insight to the‬‬ ‫‪exciting world of aviation through a real-life and immersive setting. In the establishment, children will‬‬ ‫‪be given the opportunity to earn kidZos, KidZania’s currency, as Pilots and Flight Attendants. As Pilots,‬‬ ‫‪children will learn about the cockpit, control panels, and how to take-off and land using state-of-the‬‬‫‪art flight simulators. Designed to educate and inspire children up to 14-years-old, KidZania Kuwait will‬‬ ‫‪help budding youth learn about life in a fun and engaging way by offering a kid-sized city experience,‬‬ ‫‪all in a safe and self-contained 7,000 square meter scaled-down city.‬‬ ‫‪KidZania Kuwait is expected to open its doors soon at The Mall – The Avenues. For more information‬‬ ‫‪visit www.kuwait.kidzania.com, Or follow them on Facebook or Twitter @KidZaniaKuwait.‬‬ ‫‪139‬‬

HEALTHTAP Ultra-popular app convincing doctors to give their services for free

By Ariel Schwartz

HealthTap gives you access to medical professionals to answer your health queries, and it doesn’t cost you a dime.

There was a time not too long ago that doctors lived in an analog world. They only answered questions from patients that came into their office.

They prescribed medicine in person. They always did some sort of physical exam before making judgments.

No longer. Doctors increasingly communicate with patients via email, appear on social networks, and write prescriptions via mobile apps. If they wanted to boost their online reputation, there’s even a place for doctors to air their medical opinions 140

out in the open, for all patients to see: HealthTap. The HealthTap app emerged from beta a year and 10 months ago. Since then, it has grown to a network of 35,000 physicians waiting at the ready to answer all manner of questions from millions of anxious users. The service is mostly free--any questions longer than 150 characters require a 99 cent charity donation, and a private chat with a doctor costs $9.99. For most people, though, the free service is good enough (you can find answers to pretty much any medical question you could think of already in the database). And doctors seem to be more than willing to help out, even though

they receive no cash from answering free queries.

“It’s not about the money. They chose to practice medicine because they want to help,” insists HealthTap founder and CEO Ron Gutman.

That’s not the whole story. HealthTap has created a rating systems for doctors, called a “Docscore”, that can boost online reputation. The score takes into account the number of patients reached, reviews they receive from other doctors with high Docscores, and more. Fast Company described the Docscore system in a 2012 article: The user interface itself is decked out in referral buttons and awards galore. Answers are accompanied by a giant “thank” button in the top right hand corner, and a doctor’s avatar is decorated like a military uniform, with their HealthTap score and expertise placed directly under their name. The doctor profile pages themselves prominently display the total number of patients they’ve reached, how many lifetime “thanks” and “agrees” they received. Like a wall of plaques in their office, the profile page prominently displays HealthTap’s own version of awards, some as silly as the “Healthcliff Huxtable award” for receiving 50 total “thanks.”

Gutman points out that the service can be used by doctors to improve their career and find better jobs.

As a recent New York Times article discusses, many doctors are just now figuring out how to extend their medical expertise into the online world. For some, HealthTap can help.

HealthTap continues upgrading its features--most recently, it began allowing users to tag questions with details (i.e. gender and medications taken) to give the service an even more personalized touch. But despite the addition of new features and an ever-growing user base, Gutman says the service isn’t profitable (though it does have $13.9 million in funding). “We could have been profitable if we turned on ads now, but we decided not to do it to preserve an excellent user experience and doctor experience,” he says.

I suggested that HealthTap could license its service to medical practices looking for an online platform that allows them to easily answer patient questions.

“We’ve been asked to do that,” says Gutman. “I can’t comment exactly.”

Gutman believes HealthTap will really shine when the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act comes online and up to 40 million previously uninsured Americans--now able to get insurance from health insurance exchanges--start searching for doctors. “We’re going to have a shortage of 45,000 primary care physicians, and what we’re going to do then depends on our ability to use technology like HealthTap to triage these people,” he says. An online question and answer service is not a definitive solution to the problem, but for the niggling medical questions that don’t require in-person evaluations, it’s certainly useful.

PARTY LAND (KIDS)

TARGETING MILLENNIALS

By Michele Serro

Millennials will define our economy for many decades to come – and these three generational priorities will bend time-tested rules of the marketplace.

Millennials have a somewhat schizophrenic relationship with the media. Depending on the study cited, they’ve been called everything from the most community-minded to the most narcissistic generation, the most entrepreneurial, to the least financially literate. Name your bipolarity and there are plenty of research papers happy to park Millennials firmly at either end.

What is clear, though, is that the largest generation since the Baby Boomers is a force that’s going to define our economy for many decades to come--which is why so many are desperate to truly understand and connect with them.

A little context certainly helps. Any major industry, from housing to banking to automotive, needs to come to grips with the ways in which the Millennial setting, or the socioeconomic realities into which they came of age, has necessarily shaped the Millennial mindset.

We’ve been fortunate to speak to and be inspired by hundreds of Millennials in the past year, but what’s most striking is how so much of what we’re learning applies far beyond our own industry. So here are three big ideas we’ve recently embraced that were inspired by the generation that defies easy definition. #1. Design Or Die For all the hand-wringing about the Millennial tendency to over-share and self-aggrandize online, one thing is clear: They’ve grown accustomed to great online tools that seamlessly organize or connect their lives.

For Millennials, design is not a differentiator--it’s a cost of entry.

That’s why, for example, the experience of buying a home can be so jarring for them. It’s a 142

badly organized legacy system where key players can’t really collaborate in a way that makes sense or feels right. There’s a dozen or more people involved in a home-buying transaction--including inspectors, underwriters, escrow agents, and more-and yet the actual experience often plays out like a particularly convoluted game of telephone (with the best real estate agent and loan officers working double-time to compensate for crossed signals and missed connections).

Great design streamlines, clarifies, and delights-and the most complex or chaotic experiences need it most of all. But here’s the rub: For Millennials, design is not a differentiator--it’s a cost of entry. Every startup looking to re-imagine broken industries, whether it’s housing or health care, has one thing in common: well-designed experiences. And every established giant within that same system tends to be plagued by the reverse (ever tried to open a savings account online with a major national bank?). #2. Flexibility Trumps Stability If the American dream used to be about stability (and therefore security), the Millennial dream, both due to financial circumstance and preference, seems to value flexibility (and therefore freedom).

This goes a long way to explain why many industries that used to rely on the appeal of ownership are increasingly focused on access. Why buy a car when you can easily share one? Why pay for a vacation home when you can swap one? Why buy a handbag when you can rent one?

And yet consider how badly designed the mortgage industry is designed to deal with such a mentality. Mortgages, at their core, haven’t fundamentally changed in 30 years. Even so-called innovations--say, interest-only or adjustable rate mortgages--still fail to account for the manner in which Millennial sociological patterns are vastly different from that of their parents.

The irony of most mortgage products is that they are an attempt to sell a long-term product without being willing to take the long-term view on a potential customer relationship whose life circumstances (and therefore financial stability) will naturally ebb and flow without necessarily spelling ultimate financial disaster. Not to mention they lack the willingness to deal with the natural ebb and flow of the market (the value of my house goes down, but my mortgage doesn’t adjust in parallel).

Most juggernaut industries struggle to connect with Millennials because they were designed to appeal to their parents (or grandparents). Consider this from the health care industry: Millennials make up 22% of the population but account for 38% of the uninsured in America. As health care reform sweeps the U.S., there continues to be a huge opportunity to start a forward-looking, long-term conversation--and relationship--with this group.

Imagine insurance that was profoundly bespoke, flexible, and easily adjustable as their life progresses?

One that customers could easily monitor and adjust over time, like they might an investment portfolio or a social network? One that is linked to and informed by online health records, literally operating as their comprehensive health care command central, and able to self-optimize as it follows them around for life, not just from job to job? That’s the bar for appealing to Millennials, right there. #3. Front End Beats Back End Funny enough, a great deal of innovation dies when trying to tackle the root of the problem.

Sounds counterintuitive, but some of the biggest opportunities to connect with Millennials often lie in knowing when to surrender. Many individuals and organizations have been on a mission to create reform in the financial industry, but the good news is we don’t need to tackle it all. Most industries are most broken at the front end, where the service interacts with the customer.

In many cases, this new breed of organization (many of which are run by Millennials) is growing a “smarter skin” over a rather worn-out body--and it works. They’re all cleverly circumventing dated systems designed by or for their parents without wasting time or money trying to fundamentally change those systems.

Bottom line? Millennials are everything we claim they are: egotistical and altruistic, debt-ridden and money-savvy, entitled and undeniably driven. Just like any generation.

The truth is we simply don’t need a tidy definition in order to be inspired by them. Millennials are the personification of a larger macro shift relevant to all of us: impatience with the irrelevant, intolerance for the unwieldy, and a proclivity towards circumvention.

These are the true hallmarks of Millennials--and a great roadmap for any future innovation.

PIZZA HUT

big boys toys Because grown men still need to play

MERCEDES-BENZ G63 AMG 6X6

UNDER ARMOUR ALTER EGO BASELAYER

MCLELLAN JACOBS KAYAK 1

The Mercedes-Benz G63 AMG 6×6 (£350,000; roughly KD 150,000) is the biggest, most rugged offroader Stuttgart’s ever produced. As the name suggests, it features six wheels for increased traction, a twinturbocharged 5.5L AMG V8 cranking out 536hp, a sevenspeed automatic transmission, and all-wheel drive. It’s not all rugged capability, though, with an interior that features copious amounts of leather and Alcantara, sports seats, and other luxurious appointments. Just don’t expect to see too many of them — word has it there’s only going to be 20-30 built each year.

UA Compression gives your muscles that extra boost they need when you’re working hard. But you know what else it does? It makes you feel indestructible.

Stay ready for action at all times with an Under Armour Alter Ego Baselayer (KD 12). Made from the same HeatGear Sonic fabric as the company’s more seriouslooking gear, with Signature Moisture Transport and Anti-odor technology, but it is designed to look like the outfit of one of six superheros — Superman, Batman, Iron Man, Spider-Man, The Incredible Hulk, or Captain America.

The McLellan Jacobs Kayak 1 is an absurdly luxurious vehicle that will undoubtedly draw attention. But unlike a yacht, the Kayak 1 — with its carbon fiber body crafted

by America’s Cup boat builders, teak and ash detailing, and gold-plated brass fittings — won’t be drawing attention from other people, but rather from fish, birds, and perhaps the occasional otter. Still, it weighs 40 pounds or less depending on what options you select, so odds are you’ll still look presentable after hauling its nearly 13-foot shell from your vehicle to the dock and back, where you might actually see other humans again.

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

www.uncrate.com

TYRANNOSAURS SKELETON

MR DAVIS - THE WORLDS BEST UNDERSHIRT

AFFINITY BLUE – TUNABLE APP

Looking to start your own Jurassic Park? Sorry, but you won’t find any dino DNA here. What you will find, however, is a one-of-a-kind Tyrannosaurs Skeleton.

75 percent complete overall — with an 80 percent complete skull — this massive fossil is 24 feet long, 8 feet tall, and is mounted elegantly on a gray-painted armature. The perfect piece to sit underneath your “When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth” banner. Put up for auction for KD270,000+ but sadly had to be pulled for pending ownership litigation.

Mr Davis developers have done that by focusing on three things: 1. Comfort - The shirts are soft and stretch in all directions so you never feel constrained. Crafted from 96% sustainable bamboo and 4% spandex they are cooler in summer and warmer in winter. 2. Fit – The ultra-thin bamboo fabric stretches omni-directionally.

3. Style - Mr. Davis shirts won’t show, whether you’re wearing a polo, button up or business suit, because they’re not white. The perfected color virtually disappears even under light, thin shirts.

Musicians who’ve had some degree of practice will know the lack of sophistication involved in getting an instrument in tune and on time: a light-up tuning box and a swinging metronome may be their only real resources. Affinity Blue recently unveiled Tunable as a one-stop shop for more exacting performers. The Android and iOS release provides a live graph that shows where the sweet spot is for pitch. While it’s KD 0.300 to try Tunable which might be a pittance for anyone who’d rather spend time mastering a riff than rehashing the basics.

www.uncrate.com

www.kickstarter.com

www.engadget.com

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SNYDER’S

bazaar checks it out MERCEDESTROPHY GOLF TOURNAMENT HELD FOR 16TH YEAR

BY ABDUL RAHMAN ALBISHER & ZAID ALKAZEMI CO. • Three winners will compete at the MercedesTrophy Golf World Final in Germany • ‘Drive to the Major’ winner • 17 prizes won The Kuwait National Final of the prestigious MercedesTrophy Golf tournament was held at the Sahara Golf and Country Club on Friday, 29 March 2013. The tournament brings together Kuwait’s amateur golfers to compete for the top three positions and become part the Kuwait national team to play at the 2013 MercedesTrophy Golf World Final in Germany. This was the 16th year for Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co. – the exclusive general distributor for Mercedes-Benz in Kuwait - to organise this world-class event. Following an early morning registration and welcome gift pack collection, the MercedesGolf Trophy tournament participants enjoyed a breakfast of champions at the Club House to kick start their play. This year 91 players competed for the top three positions for a chance to play against 33 national teams from around the world in September. After a fierce play, three victors emerged to be crowned as the Kuwaiti national team for 2013. The winning Mercedes-Benz customers were: Winner from Handicap Class A – Abdul Aziz Alsarawi Winner from Handicap Class B – Ali Al-Hajeri Winner from Handicap Class C – Long Kem The tournament followed the MercedesTrophy Golf World Final’s structure and was divided into three handicap classes with a total of 17 prizes up for grabs.

This year, and for the first time in the tournament’s history in Kuwait, all participants had an opportunity to take part in the special competition “Drive to the Major.’ The winner of the competition, Mr.Yahiya Bakir, got an exclusive spot in the Monday after event played directly after The Open championship on the same course where all the legends and golf professional have played the day before.

The Kuwait National Golf Team who were playing in the MercedesTrophy event, played round 9 of the Kuwait Golf Championship within the tournament. The winners of this round received a commemorative gift & certificate from Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co. “Each year we organise the Golf Trophy tournament and it just gets more competitive and thrilling. We always have new participants and competitions, which underpins our goal to support amateur golfers in Kuwait and get them to compete on an international scale.” said Michael Ruehle, General Manager, Abdul Rahman Albisher & Zaid Alkazemi Co. “This tournament is a success annually because of our sponsors – Jumbo Travels, Tiffany & Co., Magnitude Communications and participants. We also look forward to cheering on the Kuwaiti national team in September at the World Finals.”

After a prize giving ceremony, all participants enjoyed a relaxing dinner at the terrace of the Sahara Golf Club accompanied by a live jazz band.

LANDMARK GROUP ORGANIZES ITS 6TH ANNUAL BLOOD DONATION CAMPAIGN In line with its year-round corporate responsibility strategy Landmark Group, the largest value retail shopping chain in Kuwait recently conducted its sixth annual blood donation campaign.

Held in association with Kuwait Central Blood Bank (KCBB), the campaign took place at Al Bahar Center and was attended by 130 plus employees of the company who voluntarily took part in the noble initiative. Mr. Saibal Basu, Chief Operating Officer, Landmark Group Kuwait, expressed his delight at the large number of partaking employees and customers, and further to this says “donating blood is a simple and safe process and doesn’t take more than 15 minutes. We want to make a difference to the lives of patients in need and are glad to continue our support to the Kuwait Central Blood Bank which has been doing an admirable job in saving lives by maintaining ample stock of blood.” The campaign conducted for the sixth consecutive year is a part of the Group’s continuous efforts to highlight the principles of corporate social responsibility and support patients in need.

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GET THE LOOK FOR EVERY MUSIC FESTIVAL THIS SEASON It’s easy to get the festival look this season at H&M. Starting this spring, H&M Divided presents collections for every music occasion, whether for the heat of the desert festival such as Coachella, the unpredictable weather of festivals like Glastonbury, or the summer-long party of Ibiza. As the season develops that means for women kaftans and cut-offs, uniform jackets, jeans and wellington boots, and then bikinis and bohemian tops. For men, there are denim shirts and shorts, biker jackets and jeans, and then ethnic and digital print T’s and shorts. There are also glow-in-the-dark pieces to bring the night alive and a full accessories collection, as well as all the kit a festival goer will need, including tents, ponchos and DIY kits.

For more information please visit www.hm.com/kw.

AHMED KHALID AL BADER SHARES SUCCESS STORY OVER A STARBUCKS COFFEE Starbucks and the Diwan Book Club hosted Kuwaiti entrepreneur Ahmed Khalid Al Bader in the seventh Coffee Chat at Starbucks AUK store. The restaurateur and well-known chef shared his journey in the culinary world with members of the club, the Starbucks management team and customers. Al Bader spoke of his passion for cooking which led him to study and train extensively in the culinary field. He said his desire to create original upscale concepts in Kuwait has driven him to create a number of casual and fine dining restaurants in the country. The Starbucks chats, held in collaboration with Diwan Book Club, allow club members and customers to interact with local figures accomplished in business, the arts or sports, and to hear about their experiences over a cup of coffee. The previous Coffee Chat took place in October 2012 and featured Kuwaiti sculptor Sami Mohammad Al Shabab.

All interested individuals over 18 years of age are welcome to join the Diwan Book Club for free by registering online at www.diwanbookclub.com/.

AL MULLA & BEHBEHANI MOTOR COMPANY BRINGS THE ICONIC ALFA ROMEO AND FIAT BRANDS BACK TO KUWAIT IN TRUE STYLE His Excellency The Ambassador of Italy inaugurates New Showroom The motoring flair that Italy is renowned for has returned to Kuwait in real style with the official opening of Al Mulla & Behbehani Motor Company’s Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Fiat Professional showroom by His Excellency The Ambassador of Italy Mr. Fabrizio Nicoletti and Mr. Paolo Marcante of Fiat Group Automobiles.

Strategically located in Al-Rai on the 4th Ring Road, Al Mulla & Behbehani Motor Company (MBMC) showroom is designed to reflect the European culture of the brands and staffed by experienced, highly trained teams, it offers highly advanced world-class sales and service facilities to both private and commercial customers.

Alfa Romeo is synonymous with innovation and Italian style combined with great engineering and technological capabilities. Now available in Kuwait, the exciting Alfa Romeo MiTo was the first car produced by the legendary Italian brand after the stunning 8C Competizione - Alfa Romeo’s icon of style and technology - from which it borrows a number of characteristic design cues - the uniquely shaped side windows that are delineated by flush glazing, a three-part “trilobo” motif that distinguishes the front bumpers, the shape of the headlights and the LED tail-lights.

Since its launch, the new Alfa Romeo Giulietta, in addition to receiving rave reviews from customers, has also received numerous awards from the international press. The reasons behind this astonishing success are simple - Giulietta has delivered against the promises made during its development, namely that it would deliver handling and driving pleasure, high quality, low operating costs, comfort and ergonomics plus active and passive safety. Now available in Kuwait, the Giulietta carries on the tradition of the best Alfa Romeos, further enhancing the brand’s heritage in terms of dynamic performance, without compromising efficiency and everyday comfort.

Fiat is redefining performance and luxury benchmarks in the small- to medium-size segments with the latest model of the iconic Fiat 500 and Linea models that are now available in Kuwait.

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bazaar magazine is looking for a full-time English speaking or Bilingual designer with the following talents : Must be very familiar with InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop.

Must be able to work around deadlines.

Must be creative.

Must have a tolerance for loud music and a fun, chaotic atmosphere. *Photography skills a plus. *Previous magazine experience a huge plus.

Great salary and working hours for the right candidate.

If interested, please send CV and a short cover letter to jobs@bazaar-magazine.com

ECCO

CAN COMPUTERS DECODE DREAMS? Researchers take a first step

By Geoffrey Mohan

Dreams defy even the dreamer, slipping away as stealthily as they arrive in a mind made credulous by sleep. But what if scientists could read our dreams by using the most advanced medical imaging machines and employing the sophisticated algorithms that flag fraudulent transactions among millions of credit card purchases?

Researchers in Japan have taken an early step toward this chimerical goal by training computers to recognize the images flitting through the minds of sleepers in the earliest stages of dreaming. Their results, published online by the journal Science, suggest that machines may be able to read our minds - at least while we’re in the anteroom of dreamland.

“We’re all intrinsically interested in dreaming, but neuroscientists to this day aren’t certain what it does for us,” said Jack Gallant, who studies the brain’s visual system at University of California at Berkeley.

“It would be great to have a method of decoding to allow us to know what is going on when we dream.”

Like other researchers applying their brains to the brain, the Japanese scientists are probing dreams to understand how they relate to such core functions as memory consolidation and learning.

The researchers put three volunteers into a functional magnetic resonance imaging machine 150

capable of tracking blood flow in the brain, a sign of neurons at work. They also hooked up the volunteers to electroencephalograph machines, which record the electrical activity of those neurons.

Then the scientists waited for the subjects to fall asleep.

The EEG readings showed when the volunteers entered an early stage of dreaming called hypnagogic hallucination. The researchers woke the subjects roughly 200 times, about every six minutes, to get verbal reports of what they “saw” before the images faded from memory. The volunteers’ responses were understandably groggy, such as: “I saw a person . . . it was something like a scene that I hid a key in a place between a chair and a bed and someone took it.” The researchers focused on the nouns in these descriptions and combined them into generic categories, which were represented by images - a human face, a key, furniture - and presented to the subjects while awake.

The rest was a giant math problem. The scientists wrote a computer program to sort through the patterns of brain activity captured by the functional MRI in both waking and sleeping states; then the program looked for links between those brain activity patterns and specific images.

The computers learned to decode dream

imagery with an average accuracy of 60%, according to the study. In some cases, the accuracy was significantly higher.

“For some categories - like male, female and other characters - you can predict if this character was in the dream or not with an accuracy of 70% to 75%,” said study leader Yukiyasu Kamitani, a neuroscientist at ATR Computational Neuroscience Laboratories in Kyoto.

Dr. Allen R. Braun, who studies the neural basis of language at the National Institutes of Health, said the study was “an important first step to understanding visual imagery during sleep.” But he cautioned that the methods used by the Japanese team might not work for decoding dreams that occur during REM sleep, the stage characterized by rapid eye movement.

REM dreams - with their complex imagery, high emotional content and bizarre jumble of logic, time and space - largely remain a mystery. Decoding such dreams could unlock the secrets of many regions of the brain, not just the visual cortices that were monitored in the study.

“If you have a theory of the brain, you should be able to decode the brain,” Gallant said. The only limiting factors, he said, are “how well you can measure brain activity, how good your models are and how fast your computers are.”

HYPOXI

bazaar investigates HASSAN’S OPTICIAN COMPANY RECEIVES THE ISO QUALITY CERTIFICATION Hassan’s Optician Company received an ISO quality certification (ISO 9001: 2008) from the Public Authority of Industry under license from the International Organization for Standardization which is awarded to the companies with high standards of Quality Management and which attunes to the International standards in Services Sector, thus adding a new achievement to its pioneering records. Hassan’s Optician Company has the largest market share of optical industry in Kuwait with its 40 branches spread all over the country and Sister Concerns abroad. Hassan’s maintains its supremacy in the optical industry both in the sunglass sector and vision care sector. It’s after sales services are unmatched in the area. Hassan’s also represents most of the International brands of sunglasses, ophthalmic frames and medical and cosmetic contact lenses on exclusivity basis. Moreover, the company owns a well-equipped, modern centralized laboratory in Kuwait which is one of the best laboratories in the Middle East region. In his statement, Mr. Kian Saadat, CEO of the Company said: “Obtaining the International Quality Certification is an achievement that will support in continuing our performance into the future reflecting our conviction in the services we offer and also this recognition manifests the co-operation of our hard-working staff to meet the requirements of customers.” He also did not forget to thank the customers who have thoroughly bestowed their trust and belief in Hassan’s Optician Company all through the decades of functioning. He also thanked the hard working employees of various departments and divisions and urged them to always exert more effort to attain the best results. It is worth mentioning that the Quality Certification (ISO 9001: 2008) is awarded to companies that fulfill a set of International standards in guiding and controlling the company such as “focusing on customer’s satisfaction, having effective leadership, co-operation among the employees, and taking the best decisions at the best times”. All these standards have helped Hassan’s Optician Company to reach its goal and attain success to become pioneers in Optical industry relentlessly serving the population of Kuwait for more than six decades.

TED BAKER SPRING/SUMMER 2013 Ted has created a graceful and alluring womenswear collection this SS13, replete with feminine elegance that’s sure to make the grade. Weightless maxi dresses graze the floor in an array of color and print, whilst the signature treasured orchid print shines with spring/summer sensuality. Ted’s vintage-inspired floral print takes the essence of a French wallpaper design of delicate posies, applied to an iconic dress, and the punchy Summer Bloom print – with unexpected acidic shots of lime and coral – brings 1950s day dresses and cute 1960s cropped canvas jackets right up to date. This season, fresh printed denim ushers Ted’s prints into more unexpected areas, vibrant colors top the class with bursts of citrus lime and mandarin, and edgy combinations of fluro pink are paired back with pastel shades throughout. For Menswear, Ted’s created an assured, smart and eclectic collection designed to separate the (gentle)men from the boys this SS13. Inspired by quirky keepsakes rediscovered by Ted in his attic, the collection offers a symphony of color and prints and includes a fine selection of lightweight pieces with smart linings not to mention inbuilt pocket squares on all blazers completing the look, every time.

KATE SPADE NEW YORK INTRODUCES THE SUMMER 2013 COLLECTION Inpiration This season, Kate Spade New York carries on celebrating the things we love - adventure, an element of surprise, and the cinema. May introduces adventure where road trips take us to experience new hidden treasures and vibrant colors, embracing authentic mexican influences, rich hues of beryl green, baja rose, and maraschino mixed with chic neutrals of black and clotted cream create the color palette for this month. In June, the unexpected details create an element of surprise whether it’s trompe l’oeil baubles woven into design or an on par golf hat. Enriched in bright pastels that are reminiscent of the city of Palm Springs, light crocus, sea glass, and yarrow mix with the shades of baja rose and maraschino from May to create a decadent mirage of color. July rounds out the summer collection celebrating cinema. Taking inspiration from the film ‘In the Mood for Love’ pieces are shown in sheer metallic mixed with rich jumbo florals as well as mint cream which makes another appearance as a strong color for the season. Blousy separates in silks and brocades enrich the collection.

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SAY GOODBYE TO BRASSY-COLORED HAIR WITH COOL BLONDE FROM AFFINAGE - UK Revitalise, energise and illuminate natural and processed blondes, grey or white hair with Cool Blonde from Affinage.

The Sulphate free formula will gently neutralise yellow tones and banish brassiness.

Cool Blonde utilises Affinage’s unique D.A.T.E.M protection system, has color-lock technology and UV filters for stunning blonde results and contains three products, a Shampoo, Conditioner, and Illuminator.

All three products are enriched with violet color pigments and special cationic ingredients to brighten and hydrate the hair, leaving it smooth, supple and energised with luminous shine.

Cool Blonde from Affinage is exclusively distributed by beau-tique cosmetics international.

Contact them for more details 2225 1285.

IT WAS 30 YEARS AGO TODAY… SWATCH MARKS THREE DECADES OF THE WATCH THAT CHANGED THE WORLD The watch that changed the world was born 30 years ago. On March 1, 1983, the first 12 models made their debut. Looking back now, they seem unlikely heroes, but events soon revealed their true identity: they were the avant-garde, the shock troops of a revolution named Swatch. Today, after three decades of sly wit, audacious innovation, playful provocation and inexhaustible joie de vivre, Swatch has every reason to celebrate. Those first 12 watches from 1983 have been followed by millions, and now there is one that brings it all back to mind — the impossible, incredible story of Swatch: SWATCH Est. 1983. A New Gent, SWATCH Est. 1983 features a transparent plastic case and strap and a skeleton dial offering a clear view of the movement within. Key components are highlighted in gold; on one, a golden driving wheel, the word CELEBRATE appears twice, in black. And printed in gold on a broad silver band are all those extraordinary years, from 1983 to 2013. This festive New Gent comes packaged in shimmering gold with the word CELELBRATE embossed on the surface.

For more details visit www.swatch.com

SAFAT HOME – BUILD YOUR DREAM SPACES WITH DOUBLE SAVINGS It’s that time of year again for Safat Home’s biggest saving event; Double Savings! Double Savings entitles customers to further discounts on already discounted items. Get fantastic deals on their wide range of furniture, accessories and even sanitary ware and tiles! This promotion applies to both their showrooms - Shuwaikh and Alrai. Offers are only available while stocks last, so hurry in!

Double Savings means double the fun! In recent weeks, renovations to improve their Alrai Showroom have been taking place in order to enhance your shopping experience. Meanwhile, the showroom continues to showcase all their fine furnishings, accessories and décor. Their Shuwaikh Showroom also provides an extensive range of furniture and accessories and more. Keep a look out for exclusive offers in the Shuwaikh showroom as these are not to be missed! Safat Home also offers a 1 year warranty on furniture items and for a nominal fee they will extend that warranty for a further 3 or 5 years, for additional peace of mind. Flexible payment terms are also available, so you can furnish your home, without breaking the bank. Think furniture, think Safat Home!

Visit their website for more information www.safathome.com.

SPLASH TURNED 20!

Celebrating high street fashion, style and hallmark events, Splash the Region’s most popular high-street retailer turned 20 on the 21st of March this year. Born in the UAE with a single store, the brand’s journey has spanned 12 countries with over 200 stores and is celebrating these two stylish decades in style.

Kicking off the celebrations in glamorous style the brand has partnered with BMW to offer an eye catching GCC, Jordan & Egypt -wide promotion which comes loaded with 20, 520i Executive 2013 model BMWs over a 45 day period. Alongside the BMW partnership, each lucky shoppers on purchase of every KD 15, gets 1 chance to enter the raffle draw and can win 2 BMW Car, 2 laptops, 2 iphone, 2 ipad, 2 Samsung Mobiles & 2 TV’s in Kuwait.

Join them in celebrating fashionably and head down to your nearest Splash at Centrepoint and The Avenues, to be a part of this amazing celebration.

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TR AVEL MUST-SEES VS MUST-EATS

By Joe Yonan

By some people’s definition, I’ve never been to Paris, even though I’ve traveled there a halfdozen times. That’s because if you handed me a list of the city’s must-see attractions and asked me to check off the ones I’ve been to, I’d be forced to admit that I must not have seen most of them.

Or if I did, they were little more than a blur.

Notre Dame, towering over the Ile de la Cite? I couldn’t be bothered. The Pompidou Centre? It looks plenty cool from the outside, sure — enough to win the world’s most prestigious architecture prize. But not enough for me to break my stride. Sacre Coeur?

A friend dragged me up the steps, we took a quick gander, and I dragged her right back down.

Joni Mitchell once sang about wandering the Champs Elysees and “going cafe to cabaret” in that “unfettered and alive” way. But not I. My approach to that grand boulevard, and most of Paris’s landmarks, is better described by Dionne Warwick: I walk on by. Quickly.

What’s my rush? Why don’t I stop and smell the roses — or at least ogle the stained glass? It’s not that I’m uninterested in art, architecture, theater, music or other cultural touchstones of a place as rich as the City of Light. Far from it. But my primary interest commands too much of my attention, and I’m trying to pack it all in.

I skip most of the must-sees because I’m headed for the must-eats.

I know Notre Dame primarily as that imposing structure that rises into the sky on the way across the river to my favorite bakery on the Rue de Rennes — the one with the perfect financiers, those gold-brick-shaped almond cakes that I’ll take over a 154

madeleine any day of the week, Proust be damned.

Pompidou’s modern art museum may hold works by the likes of Dali and Kandinsky and Warhol and Calder, but I mostly think of it as eye candy for my walk to the best falafel shop in the city.

One Paris oversight is so egregious that I hesitate even to admit it. But here goes: Every time I’ve visited, I’ve been too busy making my way from macaron shop to farmers market, from wine bar to rotisserie, that I’ve never actually made it all the way into — get ready for this — the Louvre. The Louvre!

It seems so ridiculous, but the fact is, whenever I’ve had the choice between lining up to see the Mona Lisa and lining up to bite into a kouignamann, a fabulous pastry from Brittany that tastes like the love child of a croissant and a sticky bun, well, you know what wins out.

It’s the same everywhere I travel, to one degree or another. Over five days in London, you’d think that I could clear an evening for a West End play or two — but not when I want to eat as much Indian food as time will allow. A single theatrical experience might mean one fewer High Street curry house, an equation that just doesn’t work for me.

I’m on my most touristy behavior when I have company. When I went to Barcelona several years ago with my sister, I knew that if we didn’t manage to soak up some Gaudi, especially the wild and unfinished Sagrada Familia, she would have disowned me. Thankfully, she’s also as interested in food as I am, so we returned time and again to La Boqueria, the famed food market.

When we spent a week in Mexico City, she insisted that we devote the better part of a day to the Anthropology Museum, which — don’t tell her I said this — I kind of wish we had skipped in favor of another squash-blossom quesadilla or two.

The truth is, I know that I’ve learned plenty about every place I’ve been, even as I’ve focused on those must-eats over the must-sees. Food, of course, is just as significant a part of a city’s culture as art, making a visit to a restaurant or a bakery every bit as valid as one to a museum.

In Paris, the best example might be at the most iconic sight of all: the Eiffel Tower. I hadn’t avoided it, but I also hadn’t gotten up close and personal — not until my friend Rachel and I made reservations for dinner at Le Jules Verne, which had been a tourist trap until Alain Ducasse’s team took it over and created a luxe restaurant where the food (and the price tag, of course) lives up to the view. Why choose between dinner and a trip up the tower when you can have both? Inside the tower, some 400 feet above ground, we wined and dined as the sun set over Paris and the tower lit up.

As I write this, I’m planning my next big trip, to Southeast Asia in the fall. And all this talk about my must-not-sees has made me vow to expand my interests a little bit, to let up on the food obsessions and try to experience a wider view of a culture. As I read guidebooks on Thailand, I’m going to try to design an itinerary that can accommodate, say, a guided tour of Angkor Wat as well as a cooking class or two in Chiang Mai. If we run short on time, though, I think I know what to skip.

STARBUCKS

bazaar scopes

ARIES

March 21 - April 19

TAU R U S

April 20 - May 20

GEMINI

May 21 - June 21

CANCER

Jan 20 - Feb 18

Finances will become an issue –especially if you have moved or taken on additional expenses recently. Careful budgeting will get you through. A “to-do” list helps keep you organized at work.

Social activities may have to take a back seat to family obligations this month.

June 22 - July 22

Dec 22 - Jan 19

A Q UA R I U S PISCES

A friend’s offer of help may not be totally selfless. There could be some motives you’re not totally aware of. If you’re looking for a new job, this could be a lucky time. Be sure to explore all options. Social invitations are more abundant now. Don’t be afraid to have some fun.

LEO

Nov 22 - Dec 21

C A P R I CO R N

Look back to the past to help fix a problem today. You’ll find that time has a way of repeating itself. Scorpio offers some words of wisdom. New romance should be avoided this month – especially if a Virgo is in the picture. An introspective mood leads you to answers.

July 23 - Aug 22

S A G I T TA R I U S

A career opportunity could come your way when you least expect it. Before discounting it at face value, take a deeper look.

There may be more than meets the eye. If a major purchase is in the works, be sure to shop around. Don’t write out any check unless you’re getting a good deal.

VIRGO

S CO R P I O

Oct 23 - Nov 21

Time spent alone gives you the opportunity to think through problems. You’ll be able to come to terms with a situation that has been troubling you for some time. If you’re in a management position, you may find that it’s lonely at the top. Change is imminent in a romance.

Aug 23 - Sept 22

LIBRA

Sept 23 - Oct 22

Before searching far for something you need, take a look right in front of you. It may not seem so obvious at first, but it will be crystal clear in time. A show of independence will work wonders in a romance – especially with Scorpio. An unusual source tells you of an investment opportunity. Good news comes in threes.

Feb 19 - March 20

what’s your sign?

A “Catch 22” situation arises and causes you frustration early in the month. Creative thinking could turn things around, however. Don’t be afraid to try the unusual. A Libra friend shows you the positive side. Cynicism slows you down. Financial problems may arise later in the month.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder, especially if you’re involved with Scorpio. A decision you made several months ago has an effect on you this month. A problem that arises will be a blessing in disguise. Expect delays. Leo causes you frustration this month.

A Taurus from your past resurfaces. You’ll find the bull a little deeper than you remember. A mid-month break from your busy schedule brightens your mood. Don’t be afraid to give in to relaxation. It’s really not so bad! Scorpio plays a role. Decisive action is the key this month.

A great month! Something you worked hard for and wanted for some time is finally yours. Don’t be afraid to celebrate in a big way.

More free time is on the way, so don’t be afraid to take advantage.

An especially romantic weekend is in store. Taurus plays a role.

Finances look good.

Keep a tight hold on valuables or something you love could be lost.

This is especially true if you’re traveling this month. Try to make the best of a bad situation. Negative thinking makes matters worse.

Staying focused helps you keep pace with a busy workload.

Speaking up is the only way to make others aware of your frustrations. Keeping it all bottled in won’t help one bit. A flirtation at work could be a recipe for disaster. Know what you’re getting into before flashing that smile. Leo is involved. A good time to get in touch with old friends.

source: www.bluffton.com 156

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