Black & White magazine issue 16

Vol.1 Issue 16II June 21-July 6, 2010

Ali Al Ajmi's instant kahwa p38 Hawra's passion for beads p58 Dangers of flip flopping p72

9 - 24 Rajab

p28

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KAHWA, ANYONE?

what we live for

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Who’s gonna win this World Cup??

Cup

Try your luck and tell us who is gonna be the world champions‌ and win prizes!

See page 75

Salutations to B&W and George Thank you George (Widener) for attending the event and helping raise the funds for autism programmes in Oman. The pictures (Issue 15) tell the story, especially the one where George is patiently listening to the young girl, and, I am sure, being inspired by him. I am glad to have contributed to this event in some small way, and, Black & White Team, I salute you for holding this important event.

George is a great, talented ambassador for how special gifts can inspire and motivate. So I salute you, George, as well.

Dr Darold A. Treffert, psychiatrist, St. Agnes Hospital, Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, past-president, Wisconsin Medical Society

Why not an Omani Einstein?

I second the thought by Dr Yahya Al Farsi (issue 14). There is really a possibility of a genius among the autistic children in Oman.

I sincerely believe that there could be an Einstein or a Bill Gates lurking among the many autistic children in Oman.

The son of a distant relative of mine (who does not want to be named here) is autistic and he is already a good painter. I really commend and support Dr Yahya’s and SQU’s initiative in this regard.

Dr Zubair Rawther, Nizwa

Excellent, wonderful, great!

Excellent, wonderful, great – these are the three words that best summarise the Black & White Sudoku for a cause event, which I believe is the first-ever event of its kind to be held in Oman. It was organised in a very professional way and raised much needed awareness for autism in Oman.

My one big request to Black & White is to organise more of such events in the future, perhaps on a quarterly basis.

Thanks to the event, I had the golden opportunity to meet the world famous autistic savant, George Widener. It was a great privilege, thank you Black & White.

Kumar V., Muscat

6 June 21-July 6, 2010

Help establish autism centre I offer my sincere greetings and congratulations to organiser of the function (Black & White ‘You Play Sudoku’ Open to All Competition – 2010) which highlighted the most humanitarian cause of autism.

It is great that Black & White brought George Widener from America and Dr Yahya Al Farsi of the SQU Autism Research Group on the same platform.

Black & White’s noble contribution of RO5000 (total) will definitely be a source of inspiration to establish the autism centre in Oman.

Being a regular reader of B&W, I have observed that your magazine is always promoting many humanitarian issues.

I would also like to offer my greetings to Marwa Al Wadhahi, the first Omani girl who won the Sultanate’s Sudoku championship.

SAS Naqvi, Sports Consultant, FMEC, OHA

Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

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Life Start Here !

Black & White 7

Xclusive

Part of Muttrah Souq Lore is a part of the Muttrah souq 28 Salim lore. Anyone who visits the bazaar cannot leave it without meeting this legendary kahwa maker, who has been selling Omani coffee in the souq since the last 50 years

Cover Photo: Najib Al Balushi

58

Contents

Passion for beads While she is serious about pursuing a career in wireless networking, Hawra’s passion for stringing beads together is so great that at times it seemed like it was spilling over

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC Black & White BPA Consumer Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos Audit applied for Office location: Hatat House, Office no: 212, II Floor December 2009 Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496 Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com 8 June 21-July 6, 2010

Why women leave men are frustrated 12 Women with their marriages. They usually express no hope that their husbands will ever understand what it is that frustrates them, let alone change enough to solve the problem.

Editor-in-chief Managing editor Work editor Design & production Photographer Advt. & marketing

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Priya Arunkumar Adarsh Madhavan Beneek Siraj Najib Al Balushi Swithun Fernandes, Ali Al Raisi

All about X, Y & Z

It is an Ad ad ad world

By Adarsh Madhavan There is an old cartoon featured in the ad world circles where you see an ad guy doubling up on the floor in uncontrolled mirth while a client looks on (or somewhere along that lines). The blurb reads: “You want it when?” The cartoon actually speaks of the demanding deadlines, but, lately, I have been facing the same thing with people I speak to about advertising in our magazine.

Especially when I speak to them of our ad rates.

Most of them are ready to pay through their nose with other publications, but when it comes to us, they start from rock bottom and stay there. I am yet to figure out why.

I tell them that we have more copies than any in the magazine segment and they loudly guffaw. It is true, I cry out and they wail with laughter.

The other day, I tell an old contact of mine, who is a big director of a company that we were seeking advertisement from, that we charged such and such a rate for a full page ad. I heard him chortle from the other end. “Okay, okay, now tell me the actual rate,” he said, amidst further muffled chuckles. But, but, that is the rate, I said sincerely and I think he must have been rolling on the floor because I couldn’t hear him for some moments.

“Do you know the rates that the other magazines are offering us,” he asked me after sometime. Yes, I told him reeling off the rates. “Which world are you in?” my old contact lashed out at me. “You have no clue of the rates in the market – why don’t you go back to simply wielding your pen; you have no idea about marketing,” he said in a very matter of fact manner.

I realised what he was trying to tell me. Truth is, I have not managed to convince even one client to my way of thinking. I guess I am slightly dysfunctional in this ‘Ad ad ad’ world…

WRITE BAD ABOUT THEM People have been advising me lately. I have been getting loads of advice from all sides. I will not get into the personal side of it, but on the work front, well, an interesting suggestion by a well

wisher was: “Stop writing goodie-goodie stuff about people!

What you need to write about is the bad stuff that is all around.” What bad stuff, I asked gently and he laughed. “Well, if you don’t know, you shouldn’t be in this profession!”

I let that swipe go and waited for more advice: “Even writing good won’t help. You need to sting them; you need to catch them when they are on the wrong foot and then, boy oh boy, they are going to get back at you and if it is really bad, they might even sue you!” Uh oh, so you want me to get into trouble? “What trouble?! You are a scribe.

Getting into trouble is part and parcel of the game.”

Ok, I agreed. But, scribes don’t just write bad stuff. We have to investigate and if we happen to discover that there is bad stuff around, then we write. We don’t just tar and feather someone!

“Listen to me, you just find out all the bad stuff about people and companies and start writing about that. You will get more ads than you can ever dream off,” he said. I thought about it…what good will it do if our issue has got 100 ads and I am sitting behind bars for defaming someone.

PICTURES IMPERFECT A well wisher recently gave us some advice on how to catch hold of the attention of the readers: “You guys are good, but you are missing out on something– why don’t you publish the photos of all the major events in town in a big way? If there is an event, publish at least two to three pages of these pictorially and you will have their full support.

Do it and you are going to be a winner,” he said.

We are neither a daily nor a weekly, we can’t do that and besides, we don’t have that many pages.

“Well, that is a pity! For, you are going to lose big time then!”

Well, thank you well wisher (and hope you are not going to organise a big event soon, for we will not be able to publish three full pages of photos of that)!

Anyway, more of this in the next issue! editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 9

Me

N n ha U F ve MORE tha n women?

Men read

Is it true that men have more fun than women? It has been claimed that men have half an hour more leisure time a day than women.

10 June 21-July 6, 2010

THERE ARE REPORTS THAT MEN enjoy an extra 32 minutes in which they can watch television, mix with friends, play sport or pursue hobbies, according to an international research. But, whether men are going to use up this half an hour of leisure time to help their wives/girlfriends in the kitchen is yet another story.

The leisure advantage varies. The research had found British men to be ranked closely behind France and America among countries where women work harder than men.

For men in Britain it is 32 minutes, compared with 38 minutes in the US, 33 minutes in France, 50 minutes in Belgium and 22 minutes in Germany The report called for greater equality for women and said that governments and firms need to do more to tackle the gender equality gap.

MEN HAVE ONLY 10 MINUTES However, the research does not count taking a bath, doing your hair, having a lie-in, going shopping or taking a long lunch as leisure. Once the extra time women spend shopping and in the bathroom is added to the leisure hours, men have only 10 minutes more spare time a day than women.

GREY AREAS Yes, there are some grey areas in this leisure gap. Shopping can be a hobby or a chore, depending on what you're buying and how much you've got to spend. Grooming can be business or pleasure, depending on your

point of view. Enjoying your job in anyway would probably be considered cheating.

OECD ANALYSIS The figures come from an international analysis of how we use leisure time by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the club of the world's richest nations. Its report divides time into work, unpaid work, personal care and leisure.

Work includes paid work or study, while unpaid work includes household chores, cooking, looking after children or caring for adults, and shopping.

Leisure includes watching TV, hobbies, seeing friends, going to events and taking part in sport.

Personal care includes sleeping, eating and drinking, personal hygiene, hairdressing and fitness and medical care.

Taking a lie-in or lunching with friends also counts as personal care.

WOMEN SPEND MORE TIME ON PERSONAL CARE Women spend more time than men on personal care. After the 22 minutes more women spend than men each day on personal care is taken into account, men have only 10 minutes more spare time than women.

If shopping did not count as unpaid work, the gap would be even narrower.

The OECD noted that not all women regarded all shopping as a chore and that some regarded it as a leisure activity.

Black & White 11

LEAVE Why women

men

Men read

Sometimes in marriages, a man and a woman are like ships passing in the night.

The man goes his way, and the woman, hers. There comes a time for many women in marriages when their husbands become rank strangers; they don’t even know who they are anymore.

12 June 21-July 6, 2010

FOR SUCH WOMEN, THE COMMONLY FELT FEELING is that their men don’t show any interest in them anymore. They hurt all the time, because they feel alone and abandoned.

When the husband is no longer there (especially when she needs him the most); when he is no longer a friend; when he even hurts her feelings and does not apologise, then things are going very wrong.

Of course, in most cases, women tend to be more concerned about their marriages than men. They do their bit to improve their marriages and complain about their problematic marriage to their friends and sometimes, even strangers. But, women also file for divorce twice as often as men.

Black & White 13

Why do women seem so dissatisfied with marriage?

What do they want from their husbands? What bothers them so much about marriage that most are willing to risk their families’ future to escape it?

Why do women leave men?

Because they are frustrated with their marriages. They usually express no hope that their husbands will ever understand what it is that frustrates them, let alone change enough to solve the problem.

From their perspective, marital problems are created by their husbands who do little or nothing to solve them. Wives tend to see themselves as the major force for resolving conflicts, and when they give up their effort, the marriage is usually over.

Of course, this maybe a onesided version. The husbands may have a different story to tell. Very few men, these days, feel that they have learned to become the husbands that their wives have wanted, and the job seems to be getting more and more difficult.

Men’s perceived failure to satisfy their wives is punctuated by the fact that women file for divorce twice as often as men. In other words, their unhappiness with marriage often results in divorce.

Men read

MENTAL CRUELTY The most common reason women give for leaving their husbands is “mental cruelty.”

When legal grounds for divorce are stated, most of them have been emotionally abused. But the mental cruelty they describe is rarely the result of their husband’s efforts to drive them crazy.

14 June 21-July 6, 2010

It is usually husbands being indifferent, failing to communicate and demonstrating other forms of neglect.

NEGLECTED Another reason for divorce reported almost as much as mental cruelty is “neglect” itself.

These include both emotional and physical abandonment. Husbands that work away from the home, sometimes leaving their wives alone for weeks at a time, fall into this category.

When all forms of spousal neglect are grouped together, it is found that it is far ahead of all the other reasons combined that women leave men. Surprisingly few women divorce because of physical abuse, infidelity, alcoholism, criminal behaviour, fraud, or other serious grounds.

Simply stated, women leave men when they are neglected.

Neglect accounts for almost all of the reasons women leave and divorce men.

But neglect is a much tougher sell, and it is also much more difficult to overcome than abuse.

While it is the most important reason women leave men, it is hard to convince men that it is a legitimate reason, something they should avoid at all costs.

What are women looking for in men?

They want a soul mate, someone they trust; who is there for them when they have a problem, who takes their feelings into account when decisions are being made.

Someone to whom they feel emotionally connected. Perhaps, it is not as easy as it sound, does it?

Women leave men when they are neglected. Neglect accounts for almost all of the reasons women leave and divorce men

Black & White 15

Get a

LEG UP (and down)

Men health

SQUATS DON’T HURT YOUR KNEES. Not if it is properly executed. Any properly executed squat, may be a more effective muscle builder than all other exercises combined. It requires the synchronised recruitment of muscle fibers throughout your body. And because squatting is one of the most natural human movements, like walking or using the remote, it’s perfectly safe.

And new research shows that squats burn up to three times as many calories as previously thought. So this type of leg exercise is a powerful fat-burning tool as well.

Getting a good leg workout doesn’t require a ton of free weights or expensive machines in a health club. In addition to running, which requires only a good pair of running shoes, time and commitment, men can do a wide range of exercises to build strong legs at home. Just remember to maintain proper form and take your time with squats, heel raises and other leg exercises to avoid strains and other injuries.

SQUAT WITH YOUR ELBOWS First, do three consecutive vertical jumps, then look down. This is roughly where you want to place your feet every time you squat.

Set your feet and bend your hips and knees to lower your body as far as you can. Then, when you’re in your deepest position, push your knees out with your elbows. Try to keep your feet flat on the floor and allow your butt to sink below knee height.

Relax in this position for two or three seconds, then descend a bit deeper and drive your knees out with your elbows once more. For most men, this small elbow maneuver will simplify squatting forever, because it makes you drop your torso between your thighs rather than fold at the waist. Stand up, and go to step two.

LUNGES Lunges are a little like push-ups in that they are relatively easy to do at home and work 16 June 21-July 6, 2010

several muscle groups at one time.

To start, take a long step forward with your right leg and, with your hands on your hips, lower your left leg until your knee forms a right angle.

Then, using just your leg muscles, raise yourself back up and bring your right foot back.

It is recommended that you do three sets of 30 repetitions for each leg. A smaller step forward is also recommended if you have knee problems.

HEEL RAISES To strengthen your calves, simply stand with your feel shoulder width apart and lift your heels up so you’re on your tiptoes for a few seconds.

Lower your heels and then repeat slowly and methodically.

It is recommended that you do three sets of 40 repetitions. And for an extra challenge, try heel raises on a step and let your heels extend below the edge of the step with each repetition. Calf muscles respond quickly to strength training, so if you like immediate results, heel raises are a must.

GOBLET SQUAT Named for the way in which you hold the weight--in front of your chest, with your hands cupped--the goblet squat may in fact be the only squat you need in your workout.

Start with a light dumbbell, between 25 and 50 pounds, and hold it vertically by one end. Hug it tight against your chest.

With your elbows pointing down, lower your body into a squat. Allow your elbows to brush past the insides of your knees as you descend.

It’s okay to push your knees out.

Return to a standing position. Your upper body should hardly move if you’re using your legs, hips, and lower back as a unit.

To finish, rise up slowly and repeat so you eventually do three sets of 10 to 12 repetitions.

Black & White 17

Off the wall

For old time’s sake I have been thinking about this for sometime now.

Even losing sleep over it. I want a trip down memory lane. Just once…

O

By Adarsh Madhavan f

he ft

wall

Just a quick stroll down all things memorable past.

I do not know why. And I do not know how I am going to do it, but, I have been thinking about it.

Just a quick stroll down a fond memory lane. there must be a way to get back there…

Perhaps, I want to find out what I had left behind; what I am missing; what I should have done and had not…something, I will find out when I get back there.

There must be some reason for me to think in this manner; some force within me pushing me forward with this desire. What could it be? A ghost of my past? I don’t know and I don’t mind even if it is an apparition that is drawing me back to enact sweet revenge for some past crime I have escaped with. I don’t mind even if it is going to be my doom if I revisit my past, but I want to go, catch that next bus, or the train, chugging backwards. Or, is it a flight of fancy only? Even so, I am ready to catch it and fly back there.

I want to revisit my past values, my thoughts, my desires, my hopes, my dreams. I want to gather them all together and hold them close, very close.

I had so many ideas, so many wishes… I had so many likings, so many wants… I loved many things and wanted to achieve so many things…I don’t know what happened or where they are now, but if I just had a chance, just one chance, I will go back there and find out…

I know people who have gone back, been there, done that and come back, refreshed and young like kids with wondrous dreams that sparkled in their eyes.

I know of people who have traipsed that silver morns of the past, drank the dews of a bygone dawn and come back as though they have sipped the elixir of life.

So, if they have done it, so can I and I believe that

If I land on that one path that takes me back, I am ready to trod on it, even if its is muddied, even if is a difficult terrain, even if I sink in it…

Whatever, I have to go…I have to be there before I suffocate and gag myself to death…

For there are words there, words laden with meaning; thoughts filled with a thousand ideas; desires filled with overflowing passion…how could I leave all that behind just because this trail that I took said no, no to all things past, so much so, I scuttled them to let this ship float past.

Today, I have reached a destination that I never wanted to reach and I am with values that I never wanted to keep, so I am going, going back to where I came from. To that land where my dreams where born; that abode where they still reside.

I want to be with the people there, whom I have left behind, gather all of them and become one. Maybe they have dropped down in the path, maybe they will no longer recognise me, but I will tell them I have come back to be with them, to hold them tight and relive my dreams, for, for old time’s sake.

And, I will whisper to them that now that I am back, I will remain here, remain still and never go back…all, all for old time’s sake! adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 19

The cheque is in the mail

Bikram Vohra, internationallyknown Gulf based scribe

Sunny side up Wordpress

By Bikram Vohra The cheque is in the mail. These are considered to be the six nicest words in the English language second only to ‘I love you’.

The sense of anticipation is tangible.

Except that it isn’t quite as dependable as one would hope. For one, the cheque can spend an inordinate time in the mail and you cannot complain to the sender because it is in the mail. That it can get lost, misplaced or simply snail pace its way to you is not their responsibility.

Cheques also have a cheese like texture in that they are processed. This is the standard statement you can be given when you make your inquiry. Processing has a timeless openended quality to it. So many factors have to come right in this delicate experiment that you can wait till the cows come home and the process of processing will still be proceeding.

Although in movies, gangsters transfer millions of dollars with one phone call in milliseconds in real life your cheque from London to you in Dubai will take 34 days to reach you. Then your bank will send it back to London on another 34 day slow boat trip and you can whistle up the Thames because it will be nigh on month three before you see any cash. This is known as a modern banking system where your bank is user friendly.

It works both ways. I took $5000 on my American Express card in Singapore and gave them a cheque. It is now Week Four and the cheque hasn’t been cashed but it is showing up on my bill as an over-exposure (ouch) and so I can’t use my card until they cash my cheque and I cannot pay cash worth that sum because the cheque will then be cancelled and it will show up on the computer and I will be blacklisted and we will have to call Bahrain at our expense and listen to ‘tin tun ttin tun’ music 20 June 21-July 6, 2010

while whoever we wish to talk to gives us a recorded message of not being there.

This is known as a modern convenience.

All these exercises aimed at making life easy for you.

We are sorry, Sir, but your card is being rejected would you like to pay cash. In front of wife, children and important guest you wish to impress. So much for the sweet and sour chicken.

I have a great saga going on with cheques per se. I was in India a few days ago and I went to my bank where I have an NRO account (something that Indians living abroad have) but since I don’t put magnificent sums of money in it I haven’t used it for yonks and I now sign this pristine first time cheque and the man gives me a brass counter and then he opens a big book and gets up and goes to his boss and they both go to the section head (because he has a computer) and they huddle together and whisper and then they troop down to the Manager and he calls me in and tells me my signatures do not tally, there is a quantifiable difference in the signature done in 1996 and this one done in Feb 2009 so I can’t have the money.

But since they know me and seen me several times they say I can sign again and try. So I sign a different signature and it fails. The first five fail. By now the whole bank staff has gathered around and they are egging me on like go for it, but they cannot show me the original because it is against the law but I am getting warmer, better, much better but not yet good enough. By now the cheque has no place left so I am given a sheet of paper to try and the nice ones on staff are giving me clues.

Finally, on try 28 I get it…I have passed.

We go out to celebrate.

Oris Sudoku Style Watch to commemorate Leonhard Euler THE ORIS LEONHARD Euler edition, a mechanical watch, has many different connections to the great man, who opened up new horizons with his first masterpiece, Mechanica. The exclusive edition is limited worldwide to 1707 watches, all individually numbered, corresponding to Euler’s year of birth, 1707. Each has Euler’s portrait engraved on the case back. The square case

symbolises the Latin Squares that occupied much of the time of the maths genius. The dial has a square-pattern to mimic Sudoku, the popular number puzzle, based on Euler’s Latin Squares some of the hour numbers. The fine leather strap completes the formula for this exceptional watch.

Oris Leonhard Euler Limited Edition – a fitting High-Mech tribute to Euler for enthusiasts and

collectors alike.

Oris launched the Leonhard Euler jubilee watch to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the birth of the great Swiss mathematician.

Leonhard Euler (1707-1783) pioneered natural science, laid the foundations for modern technology, and ranks on the level of Newton and Einstein for productivity.

Oris Jazz Watch Dizzy Gillespie Limited Edition A TRIBUTE TO THE Great Jazz Trumpeter. With his pouched cheeks, he drew adventurous sound sequences from his bent horn: trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, gifted improviser and clownish showman, belongs to the most famous personalities of jazz. Oris dedicates its rectangular Dizzy Gillespie watch to the co-founder of bebop and modern jazz. The edition is limited, according to his

year of birth, to 1917 watches, all individually numbered.

The case is based on the Oris Junior model of 1970. Audacious and angular, the mechanical watch embodies the style of the classic modern. The inclined plaid structure of the dark-brown dial adds a jazzy note to the watch, accentuated further by the dynamic ‘improvised’ luminous numerals.

The case back is engraved with Dizzy’s portrait with trumpet alongside the individual number of the watch.

The smooth, black gaucho leather strap has a dark-brown seam matching the colour of the dial.

The Oris Dizzy Gillespie Limited Edition in stainless-steel elegance is a one-off for one of Jazz’s greatest innovators.

Black & White 21

Bait Al Ahlam Bagno design showroom THE ITALIAN AMBASSADOR to Oman, Cesare Capitani, inaugurated the sixth Bait Al Ahlam outlet at Al Ghubra recently. This new outlet will feature a very comprehensive range of creative bathroom solutions under the Bagno Design concept from Italy. `Bagno’ in Italian means `bathroom’. Bagno Design is a new concept for medium and high end bathroom solutions; it brings together an array of products from different manufacturers from across Europe, providing customers with a unique opportunity to choose

the best of designs and products from top class sanitary-ware manufacturers.

N S Vijaya Kumar, Ceo – Khimji Ramdas Infrastructure Group said “The new Bait Al Ahlam Bagno Design Showroom concept has been well received in Asia and Middle East.

He added that villa owners, architects, consultants should plan their visit to their new facility before finalising their bathroom designs; and examine their quality luxury product line for giving a creative edge to their bathrooms.

5 stars for the new

BMW 5 Series

Wordpress

THE NEW BMW 5 SERIES, which was launched recently in Oman at Al Jenaibi International Automobiles, passed the latest Euro NCAP (New Car Assesment Programme) crash test with the top rating of 5 stars.

The sixth generation of the model series performed impressively on the test - which was extended to include additional criteria in 2009 - with its comprehensive safety fittings as standard as well as a highly effective vehicle occupant protection system for various different collision types.

Johnny Oommen, head 22 June 21-July 6, 2010

of operations at Al Jenaibi International Automobiles, the exclusive importer of BMW in Oman, said: “BMW has always been a pioneer in vehicle safety, coming up with more sophisticated and innovative vehicle designs and technology to help make them safer for drivers, passengers and pedestrians.

The new BMW 5 Series is the first BMW car to get a perfect 100 per cent rating in the Euro NCAP test, and we are delighted to be able to offer it to our customers here in Oman.”

Indian embassy celebrates ITEC Day with Omani alumni THE INDIAN EMBASSY hosted a gala dinner and a cultural programme to celebrate ITEC Day with very enthusiastic participation of Omani alumni and Omani dignitaries recently. Sayyid Abdulla bin Hamad Al Busiady, chairman, State Audit Institution was the chief guest.

Delivering his welcome address at the gathering Anil Wadhwa, Indian ambassador briefed the audience on the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) programme.

He stated that ITEC was an initiative taken by Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first prime minister of India, within the framework of strengthening bilateral ties with like-minded nations and to develop an understanding among the nations of various Asian and African countries, including those from Far East and from Latin America.

The programme started on September 15, 1964 as a bilateral programme of assistance of the Government of India.

initiative, Annurag Chawla, head of marketing and communications, TAC, says, “As a responsible corporate entity in the sultanate, TAC is deeply committed to the community.

Given the continuous need for blood at hospitals and blood

banks across Oman, we thought it was essential to organise a blood donation camp to fulfill our commitment to the community by contributing to the healthcare sector here. We have and will continue to support such causes always.”

TAC organises

‘blood donation camp’ TOWELL AUTO CENTRE (TAC) organised a ‘blood donation camp’, at its head office in Azaiba. The TAC’s management and staff from various departments came forward and participated in this endeavour.

Commenting on the company’s

Black & White 23

NBO continues to expand

branch and ATM Network

NATIONAL BANK OF OMAN (NBO) has aggressively grown its branch and ATM Network. Last year, NBO opened more branches and ATM’s than any other bank in Oman.

In the recent past, more than 10 branches and 33 ATM’s and Cash Deposit Machines (CCDM’s), have been opened. NBO’s ATM footprint has grown by 37 ATMs covering key locations across the Sultanate.

Asif Redha, NBO’s AGM and head of product development said: “The NBO’s branch expansion and refurbishment has resulted in a new type of branch, distinctive in Oman, and one which differentiates NBO from others. Our aim is to always ensure our customers experience the ‘best service’ in the ‘best environment’.”

Jotun Paints Muscat dealers conference JOTUN PAINTS LAUNCHED the new colour trends 2010 and the first ‘nanotechnology’ based floor coating in Oman at the recently held Muscat dealers conference.

Jotun manufactures innovative decorative interior and exterior paints systems to protect and beautify buildings in any climate. Lady, Fenomastic and Jotashield are the leading brands in Oman. Colour expertise is Jotun Group’s strength with its world class ‘Multi Colour’ tinting system as well as its cutting-edge color trends and special effects.

Excellent offers on Chevrolet 2010 Models

Wordpress

CHEVROLET MODELS COME with excellent offers this summer!

A promotion scheme was launched by the OTE Group recently offering free insurance, free petrol upto 1000 liters, free registration for two years, free maintenance for four years / 50000 kms free sun film installation, five years warranty and much more apart from a very attractive price. Exact details of the promotion can be checked out at any of the Chevrolet showrooms closer to you.

The OTE Group is the exclusive dealer for Chevrolet in Oman with 14 showrooms spread across the Sultanate and offering excellent after-sales service support on par with global standards, with a nationwide service network. Please call 800-77007, for more details.

24 June 21-July 6, 2010

Khimji’s Mart at Shinas KHIMJI’S MART, THE LARGEST supermarket chain in Oman opened its 20th outlet at Shinas. The grand function was inaugurated by Sayed Hilal Bin Hamood Bin Ali Al Busaidi, the Wali of Shinas earlier this month.

Nailesh Khimji, director, Khimji Ramdas announced the first day sales at Shinas will go to a

charitable trust which the Wali of Shinas will decide.

To celebrate the opening, Khimji’s Mart Shinas has timed with the event, an exciting promotion for its new customers.

All a shopper need to do is to make a purchase of OMR5 and enter the raffle draw and a chance to win LG 32” LCD TV

out of the total number of 30.

“The excitement doesn’t stop here. Apart from these mega prizes, the customers will also be benefited with P-Zone voucher on every purchase of OMR30.

This promotion ends this July 15,” said Madhu Nambiar, general manager – CPG retail division.

NPA Events wins top honors AT A GLITTERING AWARD presentation ceremony held at the Joharah Ballroom of Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai, NPA Events, was awarded the ‘Best Arts and Cultural Event Award’ at the Middle East Event Awards 2010 for managing the prestigious event ‘Rembrandt in Oman’. The third edition of the Middle East Event Awards, presented by Sourceme, the region’s only dedicated events directory, rewarded excellence in the Middle East event industry.

Ashok Suvarna, executive director, NPA Events said, “I take this opportunity to thank Al Salmi Library, Sheikh Abdullah Salim Abdullah Al Salmi, Stephen van Wersch, Dr Abdullah bin Salem Al Salmi, Dr Abdulrehman bin Suliyman Al Salmi, Christoph Franzen, and our advisor Abbas Ghulam Rasool without whom this event would have not been possible. Credit goes to each one of them, apart from our entire NPA Events team who worked day and night to put this prestigious event together.”

Black & White 25

Xtreme Sports launches

Paintball ‘Wreck Field’

THE WELL-KNOWN PAINTBALL field at Shatti Al Qurum is barely recognisable from what visitors have gotten used to seeing over the last year. On closer inspection, one will notice that the objects are not leftbehind junk but strategically placed props specifically chosen to create Oman’s first ever “Wreck Field”. Paintball enthusiasts can now enjoy the remodelled field aimed at creating more excitement and propelling the sport to a whole new level. The World Cup Championship sized ground now features life-like obstacles for players to navigate through and use as cover.

Radisson Blu Muscat new director of sales and marketing THE RADISSON BLU HOTEL, Muscat has appointed Michael Kuhn as the new director of sales and marketing for the hotel.

Michael, a German national gained extensive experience in the hospitality industry.

During his career he worked in Egypt, Switzerland, Germany and Dubai and he joins the Radisson Blu team in Muscat from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam

where he held the same position.

Speaking of the appointment, Michael Jacobi, general manager, at the Radisson Blu said: “It is great to have Michael on board during such an exciting time for us. Michael has joined The Rezidor Hotel Group in 1999 and has a proven track record of delivering results without losing focus on clients’ needs and market developments.

Organisational changes at the

Zubair Corporation

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MOHAMMAD AL ZUBAIR, The Zubair Corporation Chairman announced important changes to the organisational structure at the iconic company.

In the new structure, Rashad M Al Zubair will hold the position of the chairman of the board of The Zubair Corporation and Al Zubair M Al Zubair will be the vice chairman. Khalid M Al Zubair will assume the position of managing director of The Zubair Corporation and the direct report of the chief executive officer. Suhailah M Al Zubair continues her commercial role and supervising of corporate social responsibility initiatives. Ziyad M Al Zubair, in addition to his role as a board member, will assume the responsibilities for the real estate development business, for which there are plans to convert into an autonomous company in the near future.

Hani M Al Zubair shall be the chairman of Zubair Automotive Group in addition to heading its executive management, while Husam M Al Zubair will be the vice chairman. Suhailah M. Al Zubair will be a member of the board.

26 June 21-July 6, 2010

In Black & White

In Black...

Though it is difficult to hear my favourite cling clangs of the cups or see the coffeeman, I still hunt for them whenever I am there…

Things have changed. The barbers, the gossipers, the chit-chatters, the smalltime big businessmen… all are still there, but not in great numbers

COFFEE FROM…YOU WILL NEVER GUESS IT! The man was colourful. Adorned in a traditional Omani cap, a short dishdasha that also gave a glimpse of his colourful wisar beneath, a kettle in his hand and the cling-clanging of the cups in his right hand had me and my friends rooted to the spot.

Bahlak(give way)! The Omani porter’s usual call to give way brought me back to my senses as he passed by without even a second glance at me. This was during one of my many visits to the ever-busy Muttrah souq some years back. We were entranced by the unusual sight of an Omani man selling fresh home-brewed kahwa! But, in Muttrah souq, you cannot just stand and stare at one unusual sight as there are many to take your breath way!

The souq is a beehive of activity! Porters running around with the shoppers load… buyers milling around the rows of shops that form parallel lines in the many passages, dishdashas, abayas, khanjars, silver trinkets being sold, customers haggling over prices, smell of bukhoor wafting around, these and many other sights and sounds make the Muttrah souk, then and now, a virtual treat for all shoppers.

Though it is difficult to hear my favourite cling clangs of the cups or see the coffeeman, I still hunt for them whenever I am there… Things have changed. The barbers, the gossipers, the chitchatters, the smalltime big businessmen… all are still there, but not in great numbers as before.

Without them, the souk can never be complete.

It would be lifeless, even if there are hundreds of shoppers. The traditional links have to be retained. Today with all modern means to meet our demands in style, we may not go to the souk

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief to have our hair cut, or for a coffee, but, I feel we all should, as a form of duty, as our humble contribution in return for all that our beloved country has given us.

Our visits will keep them alive. Let not tomorrow take these lovely treasures away from us in the name of modernity.

True, in those days, the citizens were more in number at the souk and more kahwas would be bought, but, to hold on to our traditional norms, we need to have our kahwa man there… let us, at least in the name of duty, do something to keep them there at the souk…preserve our tradition, our culture, our heritage for posterity…

I am not exactly a coffee man; I prefer tea. But, I cannot miss the traditional kahwa on two occasions: when I eat Omani halwa, which for me is a rare treat; and when I have spicy food for dinner… Kahwa pacifies my stomach the next day!

Talking of homemade kahwa, my mother makes special coffee out of…well, any guesses?

She is known to have innovative culinary skills, but this one takes the cake. Many years back, she gave me some home brewed coffee and I relished the taste. Where did you get these coffee beans, I asked and she replied with a mysterious smile: carrots!

& White Black & White 27

B&W Xclusive

KAHWA, anyone?

28 June 21-July 6, 2010

Black & White 29

B&W Xclusive 30 June 21-July 6, 2010

Clink-clink-clang, clink-clink-clang,

clink-clang…

WE HEARD THAT CLINK CLANG SOUND one mid afternoon; a sound that was still audible amidst the bazaar din. We could not see who was making that sound, and so we followed the waves, through the winding lanes of the Muttrah Souq (located behind the Corniche of Muttrah), the oldest and by far the most popular traditional market in Oman, which even today is somewhat immune to the ravages of time or unsullied by modernisation.

And suddenly just smack around the corner, a wizened old character, who seemed to have walked straight out of a storybook, came into our vision. He was making that sweet musical clinking sound as he played with two fenjans (small porcelain cups that serves traditional Omani kahwa).

We watched him as he stopped playing with the fenjans and then started pouring hot, darkish brown liquid into those little cups from a brass kettle.

Some eager-looking buyers crowded around this old Omani, who seemed to be as old as the hills. After he finished serving them hot Omani kahwa and taking 50 baisas per cup, he waddled towards us.

Some areas of the souq can be a bit dark and this kahwa seller

seemed to move in from the darkness and then suddenly he grinned at us and asked “kahwa?”.

Yes, we chorused as the old man took us to his favourite corner, near the entrance of the souq (Corniche side). We all sat next to him as he poured piping hot kahwa from his kettle. It had a fire container which had live coals that kept the kahwa perpetually hot.

We drank the hot liquid and then some of us asked him for more. It was an unusual setting.

There were people moving around us, some barely noticed; others walked around stopped, stared and even participated in our little tete-a-tete with one of the most interesting and colourful personalities at the Muttrah souq --- Salim bin Shunoon bin Salim bin Obaid bin Salim Al Akhzami, 65.

PART OF MUTTRAH SOUQ LORE Somehow, Salim has become part of the Muttrah souq lore. And anyone who visits the bazaar cannot leave without meeting this legendary kahwa maker, who has been selling Omani coffee in the souq since the last 50 years or so.

Amidst clinking of the cups, kahwa and more kahwa and the unmistakable smell of Bukhoor wafting into our nostrils, Salim unveiled his unusual coffee tale.

Black & White 31

Essa Saleh Ali Al Balushi, an owner of audio cassette shop in Muttrah, is a regular customer of Omani kahwa seller, Salim Al Akhzami. “I have been seeing him for the last 20 years or so,” says Essa Al Balushi

B&W Xclusive

How many years has he been doing this, we asked indicating his kettle. “Many years back,” he tells Black & White. “Maybe more than 50 years.” Other Omanis who had gathered around told us that they have been seeing him since many decades.

32 June 21-July 6, 2010

story. “It was different,” he tells us as his eyes sparkled in the dim lit souq area. “The souq, the people, the buying and selling, everything was different then… there was no life beyond the souq for many of us. Today, it has all changed…except,” Salim twinkled, “Except for my kahwa!”

“We always thought that someone should write about him and let the world know about our beloved kahwa maker. He has been part of this souq as long as I can remember,” Essa Saleh Ali Al Balushi, who ran an audio cassette shop in Muttrah and a regular customer of Salim added.

Neither has his Kahwa, nor has the kahwa maker changed.

The kahwa making tradition is something that has been passed on to him by his father, to his father, by his grandfather and so on. “It has been a tradition in my family.”

We wanted to get up and buy some Omani halwa to go along with this hot kahwa, but Salim was sweetly unveiling his kahwa

That was alright, but, why had he taken to selling it to the people and the visitors in the souq? “Well, that just happened.

Omanis and expatriates enjoy this delicious, hot Omani brew

Kahwa used to be made in big quantity in my home in those days. The surplus was taken out and sold. But, although all of them in my family made great kahwa, I was entrusted with the task of selling it.”

FROM MASONRY TO KAHWA Salim’s dad was into handlooms, mainly into making wisars. “I was a professional mason, but, soon my legs gave away and I decided to take up my hobby into a fulltime job,” Salim said, explaining how he became kahwa maker. A fulltime kahwa maker’s job is hardly a cakewalk. “I am up by 3am everyday and start making my kahwa,” Salim tells us.

He makes kahwa in the traditional Omani way. “It is almost

like an art. I use traditional Silani coffee beans, rosewater, spices and herbs. I let it simmer and cool as I finish my morning prayers.

“I start the day selling kahwa in the early hours itself before I get on my souq coffee trail. I have a regular route along the Corniche area. I actually begin my day selling on this path.”

Salim sells 600 cups of kahwas (around 200 per kettle) a day.

Earlier, he was known to sell it for virtually nothing, but today, he sells a cup for 50baisa. “I used to buy kahwa from him for 10 baisas,” remembers Murtada Abdul Khaliq Al Lawati, the project manager, Ghaliya’s Museum of Modern Art, which is close to the souq.

Black & White 33

“I have been seeing the venerable old man since 1978, if I am not mistaken. He used to sell kahwa in steel kettles,” Murtada, who also owns an Omani antiquities shop in the souq, further recalled.

We belong to a different era.

We grew up with certain traditions, food and routine.

My life is not complete without the traditional kahwa; it is a habit; it is a part of my living

“My father used to own a shop here and Salim used to buy kettles from him. He was very particular that he obtained the German made kettles,” Murtada said, adding that the German ones were quite a hardy and heavy duty version of the current flimsy kettles.

“But, the one I am having is 20 years old,” Salim announces, proudly displaying his soot-stained yet ruddy kettle. We couldn’t believe it was that old and told him so, and he raised the kettle stating that it was not only old, but also sturdy, like him. “(He) is my partner for the last 20 years.

Sturdy and strong. They don’t make kettles like this anymore,” he laughs.

B&W Xclusive

Indeed, there are very few like Salim out here today doing what he does for a living and hardly bothered about profit or loss. “I sell three kettles (of kahwa) in a day that is approximately 200 kahwas per kettle. And today I sell it at 50 baisas. My mind is unable to make any calculations on profit and loss. I am engaged and I cannot think of a day without coming out to the souq to sell kahwa.

It is my life. I also think Omani kahwa is unbeatable; no brand in 34 June 21-July 6, 2010

the world can replace it, maybe our younger generation may feel it is not a job, but I really wish that someone should take it up as a full time profession in a big way.”

But, he does not see the modern day youngsters ever being interested in selling kahwa. “They are mostly into computers, and are always immersed on computer or TV screen. I don’t know what they find in computers!

“Education should not make anyone feel ashamed of any job, or create a mindset a job is too little or too big. Probably because I am not too educated, my life is not too complex!”

Salim also noted that his son does not want anything to do with kahwa. “He is happy with his studies and the computers. But my life is not complete without the kahwa.

I cannot compel the younger generation to take up everything we believe in. But, somewhere in the corner of my mind I feel what after me? Someone will come up, I am sure. And yes, there is one young boy who is also selling here, maybe others might join too.”

Salim noted how modernisation has assaulted tradition and also changing many things around him. “But, perhaps, we belong to a different era. We grew up with certain traditions, food and routine.

My life is not complete without the traditional kahwa; it is a habit; it is a part of my living.”

They don't make kettles like this anymore. Salim with his 20-year old kettle

Black & White 35

Is that why he continues to sell kahwa in the souq?

“Why do I do it? No, not for profit! Yes, I do eke out a living by selling kahwa, but not to make money! At my age, I have nothing else to do.

Making kahwa and selling it has become my life now. Every cup I pour out to a customer is sheer bliss for me. I cannot think of a day I am doing something else. Everyone in this souk are like members of my family.

There are many regulars for me, and I am a regular for many. When I started off, this souk was not a building of cement and concrete, the top portion was made of cloth or canvas. Times have changed, but I haven’t.

Okay, I used to sell for one baisa, then five baisas, to 10 baisas… yes, times have changed that way!”

SECRET OF HAPPINESS But, was he happy? What is his secret of happiness?

“Making and selling kahwa! What else?! And what else do I want from life? Nothing much… or maybe everything. I want everything! Now, at this moment, I want food, am hungry!” he laughed as he slowly got up to go. He had to complete his rounds, but he still offered us more kahwa.

As he turned and slowly disappeared into one of the souq lanes, one hand carrying the kettle, and in the other, carrying a bowl with the cups, we were wondering whether we were also seeing the last of a quaint old tradition.

B&W Xclusive

We stood there, listening to the clink-clinkclang, clink-clink-clang, clink-clink-clang music that trailed behind him…

36 June 21-July 6, 2010

Black & White 37

B&W Xclusive 38 June 21-July 6, 2010

Instant kahwa Dip, dip, dip‌add sugar (if you need) and it is ready to sip! But, we are not talking about tea‌ we are talking about coffee. Kahwa, to be precise. Instant kahwa, that is!

Black & White 39

B&W Xclusive

Ali Al Ajmi with the instant coffee

40 June 21-July 6, 2010

Yes, in the last few pages, we spoke about traditional Omani kahwa (which is made from fresh coffee beans, brewed with water and spices). But, it may take quite a bit of time and effort to make traditional Omani kahwa. So, in times as modern as this, where the accent is on everything instant and readymade, let us talk of express or instant kahwa!

OMANI INNOVATION A group of young Omani students, led by an enterprising Omani career guide has brought about what could arguably be the first-ever Omani coffee bags – or plainly put, instant kahwa!

The brain behind Oman’s – or perhaps, the Middle East’s – first ever instant kahwa (in sachets) is Ali bin Ibrahim bin Al Ajmi, a career guidance specialist of the Ministry of Education (MoE). And the makers of this unique express kahwa are 20 students of Al Sultan Faisal bin Turki school in Ruwi.

“I was always thinking of why it took great pains to make kahwa and what was the way to get it done instantly, without the traditional boiling and simmering… imagine if guests suddenly came home (and you know they prefer kahwa) it would be great to have it instantly… With this in mind, I had extensive discussions with students from various schools,” Ali told Black & White, as we all sipped coffee from one of the coffee houses in town.

“As part of my profession, I do a range of consultations and brain storming with students from various schools. And one such brain storming event brought out the novel idea of instant kahwa bags. Twenty students of Al Sultan Faisal bin Turki School in Ruwi took up the idea of express/ instant kahwa and meticulously worked as a team to create the first-ever coffee bags in town. We are aware that coffee, unlike tea, has a moisture control problem, so we thought of packing it in plastic covers. As we progress, we will come out with a better and practical process.”

After the usual trial and error, the first packets of Express Kahwa rolled out of the school on February 10, this year. “I can never forget that date. It was a turning point in our lives. We made some quick marketing presentations to the officials of the MoE. Otherwise, we are still holding the instant kahwa idea pretty close to our hearts,” Ali, who is a post graduate in tourism, said.

Black & White 41

He also explained how the team was trained to fill and pack the kahwa into specially made coffee boxes. Each box had 10 instant kahwa sachets. The Express Kahwa is available in three different flavours – saffron, cloves and cardamom.

B&W Xclusive

“We tried the flavours out amongst ourselves and family members, colleagues and just like the idea it was an instant hit!”

Ali revealed. Two sachets were enough to contain a full kettle, he added.

A WORLD OF CONVENIENCE Ali feels that this concept of instant Omani kahwa would 42 June 21-July 6, 2010

open a world of convenience for all, especially office goers!

“You can now enjoy traditional Omani kahwa instantly with just a dip or two! Don’t forget to stock dates and halwa in your office cupboards!

We are not replacing the traditional kahwa in any way.

The idea is to make easy access to Omani kahwa, which would otherwise be limited to households.”

Ali, who hails from Sohar, plays down the initial skepticism in the market when they went open to a select number of people about their express kahwa.

“Many eyebrows were raised as to whether these bags would actually stand the test of taste and strength. But, after sometime, everyone began to accept it. After all, it is kahwa.

Omanis just love it!

everyone would love it.

He is not bothered about it being an instant hit, but his fond wish was that kahwa lovers would gradually accept it and it would soon become a household name.

Unlike tea bags, we had to add more grams of coffee to the bags -- each coffee bag has eight grams of kahwa powder.”

“I hope that Express Kahwa will be accepted and available everywhere in Oman and later internationally too!

INSTANT KAHWA WILL BE AN INSTANT HIT? Ali wants to think big, but, in the typical unassuming manner of his, he said he hoped that

Rich in tradition as well as taste, I hope and pray that Express Kahwa becomes the first love of many in Oman, very soon,” Ali said.

Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Najib Al Balushi

Black & White 43

2010 FIFA W RLD CUP South Africa

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We have been thinking of it since quite sometime now.

Finally, we have taken the plunge to bring home to you some offbeat stuff. Here goes, if you like it, give us the green signal for more; if not, just take it with a pinch of salt. For this fortnight, here is some nitter natter for the B&W Bitter Batter:

Excuse masters

Excuses. Some people have become masters at excuses. The colourful stories that they cook up at will can sometimes be nothing less than amazing!

Men and women alike are good at it. Gender does not make much of a difference here.

Here are just two samples: Excuse: “Oh, I really wanted to come to your event, but I did not dare step out because of the storm warning!

My husband did not allow me out!”

(Society lady, who was invited to a charity event by an organiser.)

Truth: She went around taking shots of the rain and the rough sea waves and then also went partying till midnight. But, she had no time for

Nitternatter

Harassed housemaids

46 June 21-July 6, 2010

Social workers have expressed the concern that some housemaids are being harassed at their workplace.

P M Jabir, community welfare secretary of the Indian Social Club (ISC), Muscat, who has been constantly seeking the Indian Embassy’s assistance in rescuing housemaids stuck in such situations, brings to light some cases from his end: “From the telephone calls I receive from the housemaids in distress, it is evident that the cases of Indian housemaids being harassed are

the charity event, yet, wanted to act as she really wanted to come…

Excuse: “Did you call me? I never got your call…when did you call me?”

(Businessman, who was being chased by a media sales person for ads.)

Truth: Like daylight, he was simply ignoring the media sales person because he did not want to give any business (ads) to this man.

He had got all the calls, but never bothered to pick the phone up.

So on, so forth…(we invite readers to send in the ridiculous excuses they have confronted in the past; we will publish them in this space).

increasing.

I get five calls on an average daily from such housemaids.”

In May alone, he had referred nine cases to the Indian Embassy, officials of whom have acted with alacrity, rescuing four and repatriating two.

Currently, Jabir is seeking the help of the embassy to rescue one housemaid in Falaj, Sohar, whom he says is in “great difficulties”.

It is not an easy task, but with proper pressure, the ones who are harassing these poor maids will slowly relent.

(Note: Readers who have something bitter to chatter about can either email on editor@blackandwhiteoman.com or call 99218461)

DON’T help those in trouble

Blame the banks

Never help anyone in trouble, says H, an events organiser.

Veering away from all the charity talk currently doing the rounds, H advises us that we should think twice before we step in to help someone or we may bite off more than we can chew.

“I had a distress call from my acquaintance one recent morning.

He had some legal problems and he had to vacate his flat that night itself and so I went out of my way to get him another flat. I had very little time and finally after literally begging an owner whom I knew distantly, I somehow got this man a two-bedroom flat for around OMR350 before that evening itself.

We moved all of his things to this new flat and everything went off well. I was glad that I managed to

help this man in my own humble way. The OMR350 was deposited in the bank and so all was well that ended well…

“Two days passed and suddenly I get a frantic call from the same man again. What happened?

Nothing serious, he tells me, but he wanted to move from this flat because he had obtained another flat for around OMR300.

He had already moved most of his things from OMR350 flat to his new flat and he wanted me to inform the sponsor of the same, and hold your breath, he wanted me to get the sponsor to reimburse the amount deposited! “I have still not managed to get the amount and the flat owner, by all means, says that I should find another tenant immediately…what do I do?”

Sometimes it is quite easy to blame banks. Just like that. A woman went to deposit some money into her account at a bank in town. She went to the ATM deposit section and put some notes in. It promptly came back.

She tried again and the notes came back again. She was about to try again and then a thought struck her: some problem with the notes? She mentally cursed the bank, but then, another wild thought came: Are these fake notes?

What if I deposit and get into

trouble?

As she palpitated, suddenly her eyes fell on a note there which said that the ATM deposit machine was not taking any notes of the denomination she was putting in.

She heaved a sigh of relief and then laughed at the way she had panicked and wondered why she had to blame the bank.

Yes, there was a problem, but the bank had actually issued a notice, so it was not at fault. But, it is fashionable to blame banks for everything, we guess. Even if your account is empty!

Black & White 47

Have a

SUNNY DAY!

Kidstuff

The Sun is the source of energy for the solar system, which makes life possible on earth. Here are few fun Sun facts for kids. Learn how hot the Sun is, how long it takes light from the Sun to reach Earth, what the Sun is made of and more. Read on for a range of interesting facts about the Sun.

48 June 21-July 6, 2010

The Sun is over 300000 times larger than earth.

Our sun has an expected lifetime of about 11 billion years If the sun stopped shining suddenly, it would take eight minutes for people on earth to be aware of the fact.

The Sun is a star found at the center of the Solar system Sun makes up around 99.86 per cent of the Solar System’s mass At around 1,392,000 kilometres (865,000 miles) wide, the Sun’s diameter is about 110 times wider than Earth’s For 186 days you cannot see the sun in the North Pole.

Around 74 per cent of the Sun’s mass is made up of hydrogen. Helium makes up around 24 per cent while heavier elements such as oxygen, carbon, iron and neon make up the remaining percentage.

The Sun’s surface temperature is around 5500 degrees Celsius (9941 degrees Fahrenheit), so pack plenty of sunscreen if you plan on visiting (remembering that the average distance from the Sun to the Earth is around 150 million kilometers).

The Sun’s core is around 13600000 degrees Celsius!

The Sun generates huge amounts of energy by combining hydrogen nuclei into helium. This process is called nuclear fusion.

The Sun produces a solar wind which contains charged particles such as electrons and protons. They escape the Sun’s intense gravity because of their high kinetic energy and the high temperature of the Sun’s corona (a type of plasma atmosphere that extends into space).

Planets with strong magnetic fields such as Earth manage to deflect most of these charged particles as they approach.

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon is between the Sun and the Earth.

49 Blacck & White Blac Black Wh hiite e 49

Your stars ARIES March 21-April 20 Romantic invitations and delicate social decisions are now important. Someone close may now need to witness gentle signs of loyalty and emotional dedication: small words, gestures or meaningful glances will all help distinguish friendship from romance over the next few days. The coming 10 days will also highlight key business proposals and short term financial agreements.

Work officials and daily responsibilities may dramatically change before next week: expect minor delays.

TAURUS April 21-May 20

DIANA, PRINCESS OF WALES, (DIANA FRANCES SPENCER; JULY 1, 1961 – AUGUST 31, 1997) was a popular international media icon of the late 20th century as the first wife

GEMINI

of Charles, Prince of Wales, whom

May 21-June 21

she married on 29 July, 1981. The marriage produced two sons, Princes William and Harry, and they are second and third in line to the throne of the United Kingdom and fifteen other Commonwealth Realms. A public figure from the announcement of her engagement to Prince Charles, Lady Diana, who was born into an old, aristocratic English family with royal connections, remained the focus of worldwide media scrutiny before, during and after her marriage, which ended in divorce in 1996. Diana also received recognition for her

Horoscope

Business relationships or financial negotiations may be unpredictable over the next few days.

Expect work officials or long term partners to complicate work projects with risky methods, poorly tested practices or faulty information. You may be wise to play the diplomat.

Offer support but refuse to acknowledge mistakes: even experienced business officials have blind spots. Expect workplace relations to quickly and silently return to normal. A friend or potential lover may reveal a new attraction.

charity work and for her support of the International Campaign to Ban Landmines.

50 June 21-July 6, 2010

Long term relationships may subtly shift this week. Watch for loved ones to openly discuss their past mistakes, old wounds or recent behaviors. Offer kind support and acceptance: this is a strong time for gently deepening attractions and emotional bonding in key relationships. Some Geminis, especially those born in June, may also experience a rekindling of past attractions or the return of an old friend. If so, expect yesterday’s wisdom and romantic choices to now be reaffirmed.

CANCER June 22-July 23 Workplace mistakes or business disagreements will be quickly resolved this week: expect recently outspoken colleagues to adopt a silent, withdrawn attitude. Although relying on old workplace methods will prove efficient and diplomatic over the next few days expect a close colleague to now begin changing their long term goals or business aspirations. For the next 11 days both coworkers and new managers may learn valuable information concerning their business style or role in the workplace.

Recent family decisions may now be stressful for loved ones.

LEO July 24-August 23 Sentimental reflection and past values are accented: watch for the timely return of an old lover or long forgotten friend. Old social and romantic obligations may now cause delays in home matters and family relations: expect loved ones to openly compete for your attention. Pay close attention to incomplete contracts from the past or yesterday’s initial instructions. Make sure all obligations are fulfilled. An oddly demanding few days: stay alert to complications from the past.

VIRGO August 24-September 23 Family discussions and home agreements will work in your favour this week.

Watch for loved ones to quickly recognise their own emotional limitations concerning key relationships or family promises. Parent/child decisions, rental contracts or social roles in the home may all be affected: expect others to now leave past doubts behind and take decisive action. Some Virgos, especially those born in late August, will this week encounter a rare business negotiation or financial discussion in the workplace.

LIBRA September 24-October 22 Expect loved ones and close friends to be strongly focussed on past words, old obligations and social promises. Although emotional expectations are high this week, real progress in key relationships will now have little to do with yesterday’s ideals or events. Remain patient: in the coming weeks loved ones will move beyond the limits of the past. Pay close attention to minor financial errors or business contracts.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 Friends and lovers may be deeply nostalgic this week. Expect loved ones to experience vivid dreams or powerful social insights.

Emotional change in key relationships is for the best: over the next nine to 10 days watch for others to realise their part in difficult social or romantic triangles.

Much of this will help clarify the present and future: daily obligations, family misunderstandings or the disapproval of mutual friends may all be at issue.

Don’t be shy: your wisdom will be helpful.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Before mid-week your business confidence and workplace abilities may dramatically increase. At present, key officials and new managers may rely heavily on your practical wisdom and attention to detail. Some Sagittarians may also experience the fast renewal of an old contract or a return to yesterday’s workplace roles.

Although career and business communications may be disjointed this week, important gains are available.

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 Expect a subtle shift in a key relationship to initiate a new phase of emotional sharing and social acceptance. Over the next few days loved ones will be strongly motivated to make peace with the past and move quickly forward in intimate relationships. Much of this may involve old disappointments or news from a past lover: remain open to unusual information or quickly resolved disputes. Thursday through Sunday highlight lost paperwork or repeated business mistakes.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 Legal issues and detailed financial agreements will require extra attention this week. Over the next two weeks expect officials or corporate agencies to be highly focussed on public responsibility and workplace reputation.

Remain patient: at present, authority figures may need to publicly define their policies, past roles and ongoing duties. Money obligations and group leadership may be at issue: expect annoying delays.

PISCES February 20-March 20 Career choices and business tactics will intensify this week: watch for past duties and new obligations to soon demand your undivided attention. Expect colleagues to learn valuable lessons concerning the nature of business and personal relationships. Expect to take responsibility for neglected duties: others may now rely heavily on your sense of public accountability.

Pay close attention to subtle changes to job status or plans for relocation.

Black & White 51

PICK-UP PICK UP POINTS MUSCAT WADI KABIR Bait al Zubair Bait al Baranda Marina Bander Al Bustan Palace Hotel Oman Dive club Shangri-La- Barr Al Jissah Sri Lankan School NHI Pencil Building (Stationery shop) Al Maha bunk –Wadi Kabir Ajay Enterprises (Khimji) – (Next to Jingles nursery) Hotel Golden Oasis Sana Fashions Al Maya markets – (Old Rawasco) Scientific pharmacy – Opp to al Maya market ( Arab Udipi Rest)

Circulation

CBD AREA TO DARSAIT Al Amana Building materials – Opposite Jawad Sultan Al Omaniya Financial Services office Oman oil bunk Khimji mart shopping mall – (Old shopping & saving) Khimjis Bait al Ahlam- CBD area Pizza Muscat (Opposite ministry of manpower) Pizza Hut/TFC – CBD area Centre point-Splash Muscat Securities market Times of Oman Shell petrol Bunk (Next to Sheraton) OCCI Library – Oman Chamber of commerce (OPP MSM) KFC – Ruwi Oman International Bank – Ruwi Palayok Restaurant – Filipino restaurant Ever ready supermarket New India Assurance Office Al Fair – Ruwi high street Lakhoos Money Exchange, Ruwi High street Damas Jewellery/office – Ruwi Oman UAE Exchange – OCC Centre Air Arabia Office- Shanfari Travels Ruwi Hotel Gulf air building – Gulf air office Saravanabhavan Restaurant Sarco – Samsung showroom Khimji Megastore – Swarovski showroom OTE Moosa Abdul Showroom – next to al Jadeed Toshiba Showroom Al Jadeed shopping Badr Al Samaa Samara video (next to Talentz, old bait al ahlam) after 5pm Ministry of Education – Opp Wearhouse – Ruwi Future management consultants -(opp Toshiba showroom) Haffa House Hotel Al Falaj Hotel Muscat Bakery- Near church Pakistan School (after temple & church Darsait) Naranjee Hirjee office (before Hotel Golden Oryx) Hotel Golden Oryx Bank Muscat corporate office (Opposite Hotel Golden Oryx) Kamat Restaurant Uptown Restaurant Turtles Book shop Al Rima Clinic Lama Polyclinic Oman Air – CBD NBO- CBD area

52 June 21-July 6, 2010

Bank Muscat Bank Sohar HSBC Standard Chartered Oman Arab Bank Harmony Music Centre – Next to OAB Bahwan Travel Agencies – CBD banks area OTTB – Oman Travels Bureau Air India office – CBD next to Costas Costas Papa John Supa Save – CBD Woodlands Bank Dhofar Horizon Restaurant – (Next to Moon travels) Oman post office Lulu Darsait Khimji Ramdas Head office, Muttrah (Kanaksi Khimji & pankaj Khimji) Majan College – Darsait junction (canteen) Indian Social Club Melody Music Centre – Next to ISM German Embassy – Hamriya roundabout Apollo Medical Centre Computer Xpress – Hamriya Roundabout Atlas Travels (Wadi Adai Roundabout (next to polyglot) Hatat House Passage to India Best cars Hyundai/Subaru/GM showroom Al Asfoor Furnishing Ahli Bank Shell marketing office SEAT car showroom- Wattayah DHL office- Wattayah Honda Showroom Sabco Head office wattayah NTT travels Wattayah Toyota Bahwan Advertising – Ist floor – Toyota showroom Lexus Ford showroom Shanfari Automotive Wattayah Motors- VW showroom Khoula Hospital Institute of Health sciences – opposite Khoula Kia showroom- wattayah

QURUM AREA TOWARDS AL KHUWAIR Al Harthy ComplexPizza Muscat – next to Sultan Center in al Harthy complex Sultan Center Nissan showroom BMW showroom Muscat Private School Qurum city centre Pizza Hut – Qurum Capital Store Al Asfoor Plaza KFC Hardees Fono showroom next to Sabco centre Shah Nagardas Sabco Centre- Barista coffee shop only Al Araimi Panasonic Showroom NBO Qurum Al Khamis Plaza Al Wadi commercial centre – Coffee shop Mercedes showroom CCC- Stand CCC Al Fair Bollywood chat Pizza Hut – Qurum

Second Cup Nandos McDonalds Salman Stores Jawahir Oman Hamptons Business Services & Travel Amex office Ernst & Young buildg (OUA Travels) Starbucks Hawthorne institute- ELS Fahud Street, opp Qurum park Mumtaz Mahal Left bank Oman Association for the disabled Ministry of education (20 +20=20) Muscat Intercon Jawaharat Al Shatti complex- stand Oasis by the sea - crepe café stand LNG Office Al Qurum resort Bareek Al Shatti Complex Al Qandeel head office -, Entrance of Bareek al Shatti Al Shatti Cinema - Dunkin Donuts Al Sahwa Schools– principal’s office next to Ramada hotel Hotel Ramada Al Muriya Offices- next to Al sahwa schools Grand Hyatt Muscat Al Masa Mall Radio Shack Al Sarooj Complex Shell Petrol Bunk- Al Sarooj Al Fair Ramee Guestline Rock Bottom Classic Institute of Arts- next to Asas Oman Asas Oman Apartments Crowne Plaza Coral hotel Qurum Pvt school PDO Ras Al Hamraa Club Omanoil head office

AL KHUWAIR/MSQ TOWARDS AZAIBA ELS – Al khuwair service road British School Muscat – MSQ British Council Oman oil- Madinat Qaboos Pizza Hut Khimjis mart – MSQ Kargeen Café Al fair Family Book shop- MSQ Tavola – Al Noor Hall buildg Starbucks Hana slimming centre – Ist Floor Fotomagic Al Noor Hall Al Jadeed Eqarat office Above Welcare Clinic – al Khuwair Domino Pizza Oman mobile Safeer Hypermarket Mustafa Sultan Souk Technia Omantel Oman international Bank – Al khuwair main office Ibis Hotel Park inn Hotel Friendi Office Muscat Bakery Tropical Ice creams Subway Pizza Hut service road

Ice Skating Rink National Training Institute Golden spoon Restaurant Shell Select- Al Khuwair Mcdonalds Mct holiday Inn Hotel Oman Bowling Center Halliburton Café Vergnano Khimji Mart – Next to Verganano Safeer suites Axa insurance (opp assarain Al khuwair) Zakher shopping Mall PAN Furnishing Harley Davidson Thrifty Al Amal Medical Centre – Dr Bashir Hotel Radisson Pizza Hut Al Khuwair Ozone Video Shop(Next to Pizza Hut) American British School Omar Khayyam Restaurant, next to V kool Grill House (next door) V Kool TAISM Centre for British Teachers – CFBT Baushar Complex Café Aviation Club Restaurant

AZAIBA TOWARDS SEEB Lulu Hyper market – Baushar Oman Medical college College for Business & financial Studies opp Oman medical, baushar Azzan Bin Qais school - Baushar Muscat private Hospital Dolphin Village – Bausher Royal hospital Ghala industrial area – NTI National mineral water – Tanuf ( next to Al Madina Holiday Inn) Oman oil Azaiba Spicy Village – Rusayl Pizza Hut – Ghala Oman oil – Ghala Towell head office – Enhance & Ist floor Mazda showroom Mcdonalds – Azaiba Select shell Azaiba Oman Tribune – Al Watan office New India assurance Azaiba office Safeer Hypermart Nawras head office Zubair showroom and Yamaha corporate office(two places)- Yamaha Showroom – close to Zubair showroom – 1st floor Polyglot Institute GU Tech – Beach road Azaiba Chedi Muscat The wave Muscat corporate office NACA – national cancer Awareness Assn MCC – Crepe Café Al Bahja– Mood Café & food Court Al Maya Super market Oman air Seeb office (Below Flyover, before Golden Tulip) Oman Tourisn College Golden Tulip Hotel Air port Select Shell – Seeb Pizza Hut airport KFC Muscat golf hills, SEEB KOM SQU – SQUH hospital , SQUH 2- canteen, 3Diplomatic Club, 4 – College of Commerce, 5 – Students banking area) Pizza Hut – al Khoud Sultan School al hail service road –

MUSCAT, SALALAH, SUR, SOHAR, NIZWA, BARKA, KASAB MUSCAT continued... principals’ office Caledonian college – principal’s office Oman Foot ball association

RUSAYL AREA Rusayl Industrial Estate Oman Cables Sadolin Paints Jotun Paints Al waqia shoes Mehdi Foods Areej veg oils

MINISTRIES AREA – AL KHUWAIR Ministry of tourism(Ghala, next to ISG) Ministry of social Development(next to Regional municipalities, Bank Mct) Ministry of foreign affairs

SOHAR Spicy Village Restaurant Lulu Hypermarket Jumeirah Shopping Centre Khimji’s Mart Al Salem shopping Centrepoint Moosa Abdul Rahman – GMC Toyota Nissan Mitsubishi LG showroom Sohar Bakery Sohar University Bank Muscat Habib Bank Bank Sohar Oman International Bank Al Raffah Hospital Badr Al Samaa Oman Arab Bank Bank Dhofar HSBC Travel City National Travels and Tours Universal Travels and Tourism DHL Dhofar Insurance Al Ahlia Insurance Taeeger Finance Co Omantel Al Jazeera Group Narenjee Hirjee (International)

SALALAH SHOPPING MALLS Lulu shopping center Al- Istaqarar shopping center (Salalah) Dhofar shopping center Bab Al- Salam market Al- Mashoor (Salalah) Al- Mashoor (Saada) Al-Khareef K.M Trading Al-Isteqarar (Saada) Al-Hoq super market Hamdan commercial market Fresh super market (Al-Sarat) Union Salalah Market Family bookshop

HOTELS Crown Plaza Hilton Salalah Hamdan plaza Dhofar Hotel Salalah hotel Haffa House Redan Hotel Al- Hanaa Hotel BAMSIR hotel Al- Jabel hotel Al- Nile suite (Saada) Salalah Mariott

MINISTRIES Ministry agriculture & fisheries Ministry of education Ministry of defense Ministry of housing & electricity Ministry of water Ministry of tourism Diwan of Royal court (Salalah) Ministry of primary court and justice Ministry of Commerce & industry Dhofar municipality (Baladia) Ministry of man power

SUR

NIZWA

Al-Hashar LNG LNG, Club Sur Sur Beach Hotel Sur University OTE, Sur Mitsibushi Rawaya coffee shop Toyota Nissan Sur Plaza Hotel Mazda Khimji Omantel Private Hospital, Sur BankMuscat Sur Hotel NBO, Sur Bank Dhofar, Sur ELS, Sur

OIB, Nizwa OIB, Firq BankMuscat, Nizwa BM main branch, Nizwa BankMuscat, Firq NBO, Nizwa NBO, Firq Bank Abudhabi Toyota OTE Omantel Nawras Khimji, Nizwa Khimji, Izki Muscat Bakery, Nizwa Pizza Hut Discount centre Family shopping Al Diyar Hotel Safari hotel Al-Nif shopping, Izki Hungery Bunny, Nizwa College of Science College of Technic Nizwa Medical College Busmath Clinic Thalal Clinic Omanoil, Izki Omanoil, Firq Omanoil, Nizwa Omanoil, Marfa Shell, Izki Shell, Firq Shell, Nizwa Al-Maha, Firq Nizwa university -Dept of foreign lang Al-Maha, Marfa

BARKA Lulu hyper market Safeer Centre Al Nahda resort Al Maha Souk Oman Oil Rumais Oman College of management OIB NBO Bank Muscat Shell OTE SARCO Nissan showroom Omantel

PETROL STATIONS, BANKS Shanfari filling Station shell select, al saada Oman oil Shell Salalah Bank Muscat Omantel Oman Arab Bank Pizza hut Dhofar University Al Maha souk

FREE FORTNIGHTLY MAGAZINE AVAILABLE ALL OVER OMAN

20, 500 COPIES Circulation enquiries: 98675976/24565697 Black & White 53

Good News for Sudoku addicts!

Mail to sudoku@blackandwhiteoman.com and register yourself in the first ever SUDOKU community of Oman

81

S QUARES Get exciting SUDOKU news SUDOKU puzzles SUDOKU events

Play

Be a part of SUDOKU events locally 54 June 21-July 6, 2010

By Dave Green

6 5

9 6

5 1

2010 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

1 7

2 3

8 4

7

3 4 6

7

5 9

8 7 1 2

Difficulty Level

3/06 SOLUTION: 8 2 3 4 6 9 1 5 7

6 4 1 5 8 7 3 2 9

5 7 9 1 3 2 4 8 6

4 1 7 3 9 5 2 6 8

2 9 5 6 4 8 7 1 3

3 6 8 7 2 1 5 9 4

7 8 2 9 5 3 6 4 1

1 5 6 8 7 4 9 3 2

9 3 4 2 1 6 8 7 5

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once.

Black & White 55

Read our magazine ONLINE

Log on to

www.blackandwhiteoman.com

SHE

Dangers of flip flopping

72

Although flats and flip flops are ideal summer footwear, some of us tend to stub our toes or break our little toes after wearing them and walking around carelessly

Down your blues

70

Are you struggling emotionally? If not, do you suspect a friend is; do you sense that she is feeling down?

Whatever it maybe, before you embark on the right course of treatment, there are some everyday habits that can actually help

Go veg

62

Becoming a vegetarian is good for you in many ways. In fact, several top-doctors and healthcare experts have come out and spoken about the benefits of leading a vegetarian lifestyle.

Black & White 57

Over the moon with

B E A D S

Her eyes are set for a future in wireless networking, but her heart is in designing fashion accessories for women.

Hawra bint Hamed Al Ghannami is a second year wireless networks engineering student of MECIT (Middle East College of Information Technology).

She has set her mind on making this as her career, but running parallel to this is her keen desire to become a name in the ladies fashion accessory business. And seeing her passion for making delightful ladies fashion accessories, it is for sure that Hawra is going to juggle her two passions and make a success of both.

WHILE SHE IS SERIOUS about pursuing a career in wireless networking, Hawra’s passion for stringing beads together is so great that at times it seemed like it was spilling over. Black & White met up with this chirpy little bundle of delight, whose spirited approach to her hobby was almost infectious.

Bracelets, chains, rings, earrings, anklets, phone accessories… you name it. She can make it. And the simple ones will only take some 10 minutes to do, Hawra chips in as she speaks to us from her home in Al Ghubrah.

“Say for example this,” she says in her breathless, bubbly manner, picking up a small mobile phone accessory. “This will take me just 10 minutes to make. Of course, there was a time when I laboured for hours, but now, practice has made me perfect this art of stringing beads together!”

Eve's drop

Earlier, she had led us to a table, which featured a collection of bracelets, chains, rings and anklets and a variety of beads and other glittering and non glittering accessories. Just the sight of all the beads and her intricate work on the table was inspiration enough for her to give us her bead trek so far.

58 June 21-July 6, 2010

Black & White 59

Eve's drop 60 June 21-July 6, 2010

“I don’t know how it all began, but I just loved stringing beads together and I must have been around 10 or 11 when I got caught into this passion.

I guess, I had a knack for mixing and matching colours!” Hawra says, flashing a bright smile.

family. “Once I realised that they actually liked my designs, I began to gain confidence. Then from various suggestions and trial and error, I began to learn and improve. Then I tried my hand with friends…when it worked there, I did not look behind!

MY DAD, MY INSPIRATION But, she credits her ever encouraging dad for taking off on this bead path. “It was my dad who deserves the credit for my interest in this. It was he who discovered my inborn talent in this bead art.

“When I was very young, he used to buy me little bead boxes; assorted beads that come in as gifts. I think every girl would have got one of those. Slowly seeing my interest develop he bought me bigger and better boxes of beads. I used to just sit and create fancy designs! I was never ever bored!”

“Now I cater to friends, neighbours, acquaintances, other word-by-mouth references. I design for wedding dresses. I create accessories with beads, crystals, glass beads, silver and other type of beads to make anklets, bracelets, chains, rings, earrings, phone accessories and more…

Whenever I get some free time, I devote it to making these. I simply love making them!”

CHILDHOOD FASCINATION What started out as a childhood fascination became a favourite hobby for Hawra. “As a girl I love accessories and I started putting my mind in to creating different combinations. I knew it worked well when my friends and elders started appreciating my designs and actually started to book designs with me.

Then I moved on to the next stage of learning and experimenting. Whenever my father traveled abroad, he would bring me design books. Slowly I got to learn international designs and techniques.

Today I have a room full of collections. I have all that is required to create, innovate and bring out a variety of designs.”

Hawra first experimented with her designs on her

Her love and passion for beads is evident in the colourful designs she has made. “I do browse over many books, but, finally I just rely on what comes into my head. I just do it!”

MOON ACCESSORIES ON THE FACEBOOK Hawra has a page of her designs on Facebook.

“Actually Facebook is a blessing. It has created more enquiries and good will. And also a bit of a demand too. I post my latest designs and new patterns on my Facebook page.”

Her bead creations goes under the brand name ‘Moon Accessories’. “I am at a very early stage now, but I have great hope for the future. I am confident that I can make it an international brand one day!

“I am specialising in wireless network engineering and that would of course be my main career, but, designing accessories is my favourite hobby and I hope and wish one day I have my own label and boutique!” she laughs.

Black & White 61

Going

VEGETARIAN

Cooking

Becoming a vegetarian is good for you in many ways. In fact, several top-doctors and healthcare experts have come out and spoken about the benefits of leading a vegetarian lifestyle. Start going veg, by cutting back on your meat consumption by three or four meatless dinners every week. It’s healthier, more economical, and allows more variety which your family will love. Try our low calorie vegetarian recipes for new and fresh ideas.

62 June 21-July 6, 2010

Baked eggplant with cheese

Artichoke Chili Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients •1 medium eggplant (1 1/2 pounds) •1 (14 1/2 ounce) can stewed tomatoes, undrained •2 teaspoons sugar •1 teaspoon all-purpose flour •1/2 teaspoon salt •1/2 teaspoon garlic powder •1/2 teaspoon paprika •1/4 teaspoon dried oregano leaves •1/4 teaspoon pepper •2/3 cup shredded reduced-fat •Swiss cheese or Mozzarella cheese •2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Method Preheat oven to 350*F. Spray a rectangular baking dish, 11 × 7 × 1 1/2 inches, with nonstick cooking spray. Cut unpeeled eggplant into 1/2-inch slices.

Place in 3-quart saucepan; cover with water (salted if desired).

Heat to boiling; reduce heat.

Cover and simmer 5 minutes; drain and pat dry. Mix remaining ingredients except cheeses in 2-quart saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened. Place eggplant in baking dish; top with tomato mixture and cheeses. Cover and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake about 10 minutes longer or until light brown.

Ingredients •6 baking potatoes, prebaked •3 oz. reduced fat cheddar cheese, grated •1/2 cup green chili peppers, chopped •1/2 cup artichoke hearts, chopped •1/2 cup low fat sour cream •1/2 cup salsa

Method Cut potatoes in half lengthwise.

Scoop out filling, leaving a 1/4 inch shell. Combine potato pulp and grated cheese in a food processor to combine. Season lightly with salt and pepper, if desired. Gently fold in chopped chilis and artichoke hearts.

Spoon filling into shells and bake at 350*F 15 minutes or until hot.

Top with sour cream and salsa to serve.

Black & White 63

You never stop learning…

Malak Al Zedjali is an aspiring student writer

By Malak Al Zedjali

Girlpower

Science is an ocean. Not just any ocean, a never-ending ocean.

Some may think that once they finish university, they stop learning, or that they’ve learned everything…how wrong! You never stop learning.

The first learning stages starts at school. You learn your abcd’s, simple math, and then you get older, you learn all about the history of the world, geography, and so on. You get into college, you finish college. You’re happy “I’M DONE WITH LEARNING WOHO”, you shout. Then things get a little bit complex, you face life’s problems, and life’s problems are not like when you have a problem at a mathematical equation. When you solve that problem, if it ends in a positive or a negative way, you win or you lose, it doesn’t matter, because no matter what, you will learn something out of it.

Nowadays, people hardly grab a book and read it, they prefer reading magazines instead. What about reading? You know, real reading? What about refreshing your information, remove that dust that’s laying on your brain!

God gave us minds so we think, read, discover, and invent!

You learn a new thing each day of your life, it’s a fact! Even if it

was a small tiny thing, but it’s new for you, hey, you’ve learned a new thing at least!

Are we just too lazy to read?

Maybe. You know why I’m saying that? Because as we all know it’s summer, and I’m on holiday so I have nothing to do, I just laze around doing nothing while I have five books waiting for me to be read. And I don’t know why, but whenever I pass by Borders, I just got to go there and see if they have any new interesting book, and I actually buy it, even though I know that I have a pile of books in my drawer.

I really admire those who always read, always feeding their minds with useful stuff, and always want to learn! I, myself, try to read a book every now and then; I really love to read and learning new things, but not everything, no! I like learning about the things that interests me! And like I always say, if you liked something and really wanted to learn it, like from your heart, you will learn it, and actually understand it.

So my message today is: • You never stop learning, no matter how old you are.

• Read books, try new things, and do whatever is useful so you... yup, you’ve guessed it, keep on learning! malak_alzedjali@hotmail.com

64 June 21-July 6, 2010

It's my life

Women Succumb too…

Vandana, award winning author (‘360 Degrees Back to Life')

By Vandana Shah Try, try and you’ll succeed...so goes the oft repeated truism. But I failed…it was too tempting and luscious and it has devoured me.

I thought girls were strong and only guys do such things The puckering of the lips, the rolling of the tongue, the smackeroo and the sound echoing in my ears – 'Waka Waka', this time for Africa….and I succumbed.

Footie fever has pervaded our souls. The various flags, different names, pronounciations, the buzz in the air. It’s such a fantastic way to learn about other countries and their cultures. The team spirit, winning, losing, friendship, and yet the goal is one – to unite everyone across all borders.

Girls are addicted to it for various reasons – Messi, Ronaldo, how they kick how they look …if it’s an offside we feel bad that the good looking guy got it wrong but please spare us the technicalities of football. Do we tell you about the embellishments on a model’s clothes in a fashion show? We women are watching and doing things in our own different way but the goal is the same, to watch it with friends, enjoy the game, to share the joys and sorrows and to bid adieu to loneliness.

Football has connected the dots and united the world. The delicious irony is that they have chosen a woman-Shakira as the brand ambassador.

Let me lace up my boots and go and kick some…

Till next time love and peace.

Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, www.vandanashah.com Email me what you’d like to say on 360degreesbacktolife@gmail.com Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM

Black & White 65

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By Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi What is this title, you may ask? Of course, you know the answer to the query, but then, think again, do you, actually?

Let us find out: Well, I was asking myself this question before I wrote this, but then when I found the answer, I thought I should share it with you all.

This question came up on my mind when my mom and dad passed away. At first I felt terribly sad as I couldn’t live without them!

However, I am still alive and my life is going on well. I am the same person, with the same dreams and most interestingly, with the same smile! But, then there are plenty out there who are blessed with their parents and enjoying a good life but they have no dreams and hardly smiles…then, this question keeps ringing on my mind…why, why are they like that?

From here you may start to figure out what I mean. Let me look deeply into this question once again. Those who have no parents are called ‘orphans’. Literally speaking, yes they are orphans!

But when you see them fighting with their destiny, when you see them struggling to get a good life, when you see them challenging themselves and their conditions and try to overcome them and when you see them smiling regardless the sorrow, you will realise how tough they are! They are my heroes!

Although they may have missed

Learning curve

Who is the real orphan?

Laila, Omani graduate student of Nizwa University

their fathers and mothers, they are great to continue their lives with a smile. In contrast, those who are having whatever it is to have a good life, good home, good job, money and friends, may tend to forget their dreams and their smiles, caught as they are with their fancy lives. How come? They can be whatever they want. They have the facilities to accomplish that. Yet, the sad part is that despite having everything, they are unable to bring happiness to themselves. So, aren’t they orphans? I mean, aren’t they the real orphans?! Don’t answer me, just query yourself, find out the answer and mull over it.

My final words are: do not feel sorry for those (whom you know) have lost their parents but congratulate them on their success.

Encourage them to keep going and achieve more and more. Moreover, you may tell them that they are not orphans because of what they have done so far. And, light the life of those who missed their dreams and smiles by telling them to wake up and stop crying. Invite them to reach their goals and give them a hand if they really need it. Overall, orphans are great; their success usually begins from accepting their status and absorbing their sadness.

Thank God for all what you have and feel grateful to the Almighty.

And if you don’t want to be called an orphan, just stand up and become a hero (or heroine)! lalgharbi@yahoo.com

6767 Black Black && White White

YOUNG WOMEN can also get

Watchout

CANCER Young women tend to think cancer is a problem of older people. They are right and wrong.

Older women do get cancer, but then so do young women.

Young or old, cancer is a disease that cannot be ignored. But again, the danger of highlighting the symptoms is that many may overreact.

Check out these possible cancer symptoms women often ignore. (*)

68 June 21-July 6, 2010

UNEXPLAINED WEIGHT LOSS Okay, you are losing weight and you are not even trying. Sorry, that is no reason to celebrate. In short, what you are confronting is unexplained weight loss when you haven’t increased exercise or cut down on your favourite food. So, why are you losing weight?

Don’t try to answer this one, just check with your doctor and let him or her rule out all the possibilities, including cancer and/or an overactive thyroid.

BLOATING This is the other side of the fence and not many women enjoy bloating, especially when it is due to unexplained causes. Such cases of bloating could point to ovarian cancer.

Other symptoms of ovarian cancer include abdominal pain or pelvic pain, feeling full quickly -- even when you haven’t eaten much -- and urinary problems, such as having an urgent need to go to the bathroom.

If the bloating occurs almost every day and persists for more than a few weeks, you should consult your physician.

BREAST CHANGES Most women are known to be self trained in doing regular self-exams, and know to be on the lookout for lumps. But that’s not the only breast symptom that could point to cancer.

Redness and thickening of the skin on the breast, which could indicate a very rare but aggressive form of breast cancer, inflammatory breast cancer, also needs to be examined. Even if you have a rash that persists over weeks, you have to get it evaluated.

Likewise, if the look of a nipple changes, or if you notice discharge (and aren’t breastfeeding), see your doctor.

SKIN CHANGES Most of us know to look for any changes in moles -- a well-known

sign of skin cancer. But we should also watch for changes in skin pigmentation.

If you suddenly develop bleeding on your skin or excessive scaling, that should be checked, too, she says. It’s difficult to say how long is too long to observe skin changes before you go to the doctor, but most experts say not longer than several weeks.

BLOOD IN THE WRONG PLACE If you notice blood in your urine or your stool, don’t assume it’s from a hemorrhoid, it could be colon cancer.

Expect your doctor to ask questions and perhaps order testing such as a colonoscopy, an exam of the colon to look for cancer. Seeing blood in the toilet bowl may actually be from the vagina if a woman is menstruating. But if not, it should be checked to rule out bladder or kidney cancer.

Coughing up blood should be evaluated, too. One occasion of blood in the wrong place may not point to anything. But if it happens more than once, go see your doctor.

FEVER If you have a fever that isn’t explained by influenza or other infection, it could point to cancer.

Fevers more often occur after cancer has spread from its original site, but it can also point to early blood cancers such as leukemia or lymphoma.

PERSISTENT COUGH Coughs are expected with colds, the flu, allergies, and sometimes are a side effect of medications. But a very prolonged cough -- defined as lasting more than three or four weeks -- should not be ignored.

You would expect your doctor to take a careful history, examine your throat, check out your lung functioning and perhaps order X-rays, especially if you are a smoker. (*) Always seek doctor’s advice

Black & White 69

Some

FEEL GOOD tips to

Are you struggling emotionally? If not, do you suspect a friend is; do you sense that she is feeling down?

Whatever it maybe, before you (or your friend) embark(s) on the right course of treatment, there are some everyday habits that can actually help.

Psyche

Here are some simple mood uplifters:

SWEAT AWAY YOUR BLUES Research has proven that exercise is good for their mental health. It turns out that working out may be as effective at relieving mild to moderate depression because it stimulates the release of the feel-good chemical dopamine in your brain.

But, you don’t have to overdo it! Just 30 minutes of walking a day can improve your mood. If you’d rather stretch than stride, even taking a yoga class is known to keep depression at bay.

70 June 21-July 6, 2010

FEEL GOOD FOOD Fish that contains omega-3 fatty acids enhances areas of the brain that affect your mood, so aim to eat low-mercury swimmers like wild salmon, arctic char or sardines twice a week.

Have a baked spud on the side for a dose of vitamin B6, which lowers your depression risk. And foods rich in folate, such as spinach, beans and oranges, are filled with blues-busting serotonin—so dig in and feel better!

SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF THESE Sleep is an important factor and a good night’s sleep is a very important factor. Sleep experts consider a solid seven to eight hours of rest as ‘happy’ sleep. In effect it is one of the most important things you can do for your emotional health. Doctors note that people who have insomnia are five times more likely to develop depression compared with those who are well-rested. If you are the worrying type and you tend to toss and turn trying to get a few winks in, just jot down your worries one by one and then avoid late-night TV (because, it is likely that a gripping scene in one of the movies many not only grab your interest, but also keep you awake).

GET SOME QUIET ‘ME’ TIME The only real way that you can get some ‘me’ time

is to go to a quiet corner and meditate. It has been found that you can reduce your bouts of depression if you frequently meditate. Yoga can help clear your mind, but if you’re not into it, then just try setting aside 10 minutes in the morning to do deep breathing.

PHONE A PAL Okay, by now you would have known that lonely folks are more likely to be depressed. If you want to be happy, aim to strengthen bonds with at least three close pals.

Make buddy dates by automating them—agree to meet at the gym twice a week, or gather for a night of takeout and movie watching the first Friday of each month. You’ll keep your spirits high with a little help from your friends!

Black & White 71

Shape n sound 72 June 21-July 6, 2010

DANGERS of

F

CYCLONE PHET MAY HAVE cooled the weather a wee bit. But, it is only a matter of time when things get blazing hot once again.

In the sweltering heat, most of you are going to take off your socks and start going flip flop in sandals.

But, flip flops, sandals or high heels, the accent is on your safety this fortnight.

Although flats and flip flops are ideal summer footwear, some of us tend to stub our toes or break our little toes after wearing them and walking around carelessly.

So, take a look at some footwear rules for the summer: •Flip flop only at the beach •Keep wearing open-toed shoes and heels to a minimum, especially when doing extended walking.

•Watch your step.

•Take a break in comfy shoes after wearing heels •See a doctor asap if there is any toe or foot trauma (You may think a stubbed toe is no big deal, but if your toe is hurt, go to the doctor and stay off your feet!)

lip

loppin

g

NOT DISEASE FREE They’re so easy, convenient, and comfortable, plus they’re just fun to wear! However, disease could be right on your heels when you are wearing flip flops.

There is about the same amount of bacteria in flip-flops as closed toed shoes, but because your feet are out in the open, you are more susceptible to infection.

SUMMER FLIP-FLOPPING CAUSES MORE PAIN You might wonder why people have heel pains and tendon pains when they wear flip flops. Simple.

This is primarily because the arch isn’t supported correctly in a flipflop. When they learn of this, some flip flop lovers will go and get flip-flops that have more of an arch support. But, they will still fall short because without a heel counter controlling the foot, they are not getting the support that they need.

SLIP ON AND BE COOL However, regardless of whether or not they’re good or bad for you, some people say when all you have to do is slip into them, they’re just convenient and they are also cool and comfortable.

Black & White 73

A good laugh?

By Priya Arunkumar

Hooked

Why do we do this though?

Dress up for others?

Live as others want us to?

Eat, sleep, and walk to please others?

Why, as people, do we put so much emphasis on how we’re being perceived by others when it really doesn’t matter?

I sat silently when a dear friend gave me a lecture one day… I didn’t expect this of you, she had said. Very unlike you, what made you do that?

While I convinced her I was right, I still was plagued by the thought, what did she expect of me?

Am I responsible for what she expects of me?

But, I have never promised anyone that I will be as they want me to be.

Can’t I do anything I wish?

Why should someone else decide?

Why do we put so much time and energy into appealing to others if it’s only going to slow us down personally?

Are we in some sub conscious way letting other people's thoughts dictate how we should act instead of following what we find to be true to ourselves?

Is it some sort of approval or rather acceptance we seek by these actions?

Mostly it is because of that one thought…What must he or she think of me?

Common thoughts, bound by cowardice!

How often do we spend our days

fearing that we’re being judged by somebody else?

The answer would be ‘always’!

Most of us, especially the educated ones, think they’re immune to this; surprisingly we place a lot of value on what others think of us.

We may even dress a certain way, speak a certain way, or act a certain way all in an effort to gain the approval of somebody else.

Even if these actions go against our true beliefs, we’ll still attempt to play them off as we try and please others.

But, yesterday, as we sat in office, one of my colleagues called us all to show us an album.

A music album created by a bunch of people calling themselves musicians.

No voice, no rhythm, no musical instruments, no meaning, no theme and at one glance a bunch of nuts singing as if life had no worries.

The weak lyrics said so too…

We all laughed for the next three hours.

Laughed at their clownish acts.

Laughed at their confidence, their belief to produce something they thought is serious enjoyable stuff.

For us, it was a full stop to all our schedules and I am still laughing…

At the courage of a few who did ‘something’ very confidently, even though the viewers thought otherwise. How many of us have that sort of courage to do what we can without an afterthought?

Should I be laughing at them at all? priya@blackandwhiteoman.com

74 June 21-July 6, 2010

Win a Foosball table & 22 footballs!

World Cup Mania - Who’s gonna win?

Try your luck and tell us who is gonna be the world champions‌ Mail your predictions to blackandwhiteoman@gmail.com on or before July Supported by:

10, 2010