Black & White mag Issue 38

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Yanni magic sweeps Oman p24 10 Dh Hijja – 11 Muharram

Vol.2 Issue 38II November 7-December 6, 2011

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How much did you pay Yanni?

All about X, Y & Z

By Adarsh Madhavan

“I want to shake your hand,” the caller said.

This was one of the many calls we had post Yanni show.

I beamed from this end.

Accolades are always welcome. It feels good.

“You guys have done a great thing by bringing a fantastic musician for all of us – it was a treat of a lifetime; an unforgettable once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all of us,” he gushed.

I blushed.

Sometimes, praise does that to me.

“It was a fantastic, fantastic, super show – kudos, congrats!” he went on.

And then he said: “How much did you make?”

Uh? “Well, you must have made some money right? So many people came…”

Yes, people came, but – “What buts? How much did you guys spend for Yanni?”

Ah, come to the brass tacks, I thought. So, all that praise was cover for the real purpose. He was just fishing for details of the show.

“You must have spent a lot, right? These guys charge so much! I know, I once organised (he mentioned a famous Indian singer’s name) show and he nearly cleaned me up! Are your finances okay?”

I stayed silent on the line for some moments and I thanked God that he was not seeing my face. Then I told him honestly what the event cost us.

He whistled. “Wow, that much! So, you managed to make some money?”

I didn’t reply to that directly. We are not going to sink, I told him curtly.

“As long as you don’t face a loss, it is fine. But, then, most of these shows bring only losses,” he declared and then in the next instant contradicted his own statement.

“Well, I do know quite a few of these show organisers who claim they have had losses, but actually profited – especially individually.”

Nothing wrong in making a profit, I told the guy, gritting my teeth. Adding that we are not event managers. We

4 November 7-December 6, 2011

are a media.

“Yes, of course, you should make a profit, otherwise, what is the use. If you do a show, you have to make profit. I hope you guys made a profit,” he said, ignoring my other comments.

I was stupefied. Here he was rattling on a different note. In the first instant, he was concerned whether we were confronting a loss, now he was worried whether we had profited from the event. Either way, he was in limbo, unable to feel real pain (if we had a loss) and real pleasure (if we made a profit).

We are okay, I said, we will manage. We did not make a loss, I said.

“So, you made some profit, right?”

I was weary, totally weary. I didn’t want such calls, but I could not say that out aloud.

More calls poured in. All of them in the now similar format: first, a big sloppy thanks for giving them the unique opportunity of being able to witness a show of this magnitude and then a clear query on how much we spent and how much we made.

I had a good mind to tell them to mind their own business, but I was less rude nowadays and so I held on.

Yes, there were genuine callers who really hoped that we got something out of our efforts. But, the rest harped on the same theme: how much did you spent; how much did you make and there was also this strange query: 'how did we manage to make so much money to bring a world renowned artist of Yanni’s caliber? Where did we get so much funds?'

We begged, borrowed and, and and…. I wanted to tell them to go fly a kite and not bother us, but they just got curiouser and curiouser (is there a word like that?), they wanted to know the whole gamut: how did you get the location; who helped you get the location; who helped you get Yanni etc etc?

I had no answers.

I just bristled.

Sometimes, impotent anger does that to me. editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Xclusive

24 Yanni magic sweeps Oman A musical miracle swept Oman a few weeks back. Yanni magic swept Oman and the wave of people that thronged the Grand Hall at the Sultan Qaboos University was proof of the love they had for this unique musician.

Contents

Household hazards for COPDs

14

Watch out, your home could prove to be a threat to you if you are having COPD* (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Of course, smoking can be a major problem for those with COPD. Tobacco is a big killer for sure, so the harm it can do is only understandable. But, then, there are enough hazards on the home front than anywhere and if you are someone with a COPD, read this…carefully.

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC Black & White Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos Office location: Hatat Complex A, Office no: 212, II Floor Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496 Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com Printed at Mazoon, Muscat, Oman 6 November 7-December 6, 2011

50

Can a woman die of a broken heart?

The term ‘broken heart syndrome’ actually comes from the time that researchers noticed that many people with the condition were grieving.

It was found that they experienced this after the death of a loved one, a spouse, a parent. Some even complained of the same symptoms at a funeral.

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

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Priya Arunkumar Adarsh Madhavan Beneek Siraj Ali Al Raisi Shannon D'Souza Priyanka Sampat

Black & White 7

To all ‘spitters’, litterers…

I am residing in Muscat for the past 11 years, and love this beautiful, blessed and placid country. I understand that Oman is one of the cleanest countries in the globe. But, unfortunately in Muscat, my heart bleeds when I see people littering from vehicles.

Two days back I was driving behind a well known company’s staff transportation bus when the first missile shot out from the right window – a tissue paper!

Then followed a hand grenade (a paper cup) and soon many more UFOs (unidentified flying objects) followed the list.

This is an everyday affair. Not a day goes by without seeing such ugly sights: people spitting all around and creating a non hygienic environment. If you may have noticed, while approaching the traffic signals, the window scrolls down or the door opens slightly in most cars, and someone or the other just engages in a spitting game. Why do they do this? Is it not the moral responsibility of every resident to ensure a cleaner Muscat? People take if for granted that the poor workers in green uniforms are deployed at very nook and corner to take care of all their trash. That is fine, but why add more burden to their drooping shoulders? If we can’t help these workers let us not make life tougher for them. I sincerely appeal to the better senses of all these littering and spitting people of Muscat!

If we all act jointly, we will be able to, one day, make Oman the cleanest country in the globe.

Murali Iyer, Muscat

Thank you B&W

Readers Column

Thank you so much for giving me one of the best days of my life. It was a dream come true for me (waiting since 1990). That night was a marvelous and a magical one. It’s just like that…

Nothing less! The grand hall was awesome and the arrangements were very well in tune. The compering was also excellent.

A big round of applause to all of you for the hard work rendered and the dedication that made this show a spectacular one.

Also, my heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the Black &White team for supporting a noble cause. May you all attain your goals and wish you all the best.

Jimmy Jose Aricatt, Kuwait

88November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

Fans now Yanni is not exactly my favourite musician, but I knew he was famous and so I bought a ticket and went for the show without much interest. I am really glad that I did that. For never in my life have I witnessed such a show. I am from Banglore (in India) and have seen many rock concerts, but I must tell you that this is the first time that I am witnessing a concert of this magnitude, this style, with this kind of effect. Thank you Yanni, thank you Black & White. I am a fan now of both of you!

Ravi Tilak, Muscat

Pinch to believe

Readers Column

We are still pinching ourselves to believe that the Yanni (Live in Oman) concert actually happened. We are awed, overwhelmed, impressed and overcome with emotion after witnessing the Yanni concert. For, never in our lives have we witnessed such an event – a concert where the desire of any music lover, or to be more precise, a fan of Yanni, has come true.

We know saying thanks and offering any such praise is superfluous now, but we want to really express our gratitude to everyone behind the Yanni concert.

It was unbelievable, unforgettable, never-to-be-ever-repeated experience for Yanni fans. Thank you!

Mohammed Aziz and Fatma, Al Khoud

Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com 10 10November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

www.omanonlinesearch.com

Coming Soon!

Oman's first comprehensive online directory

More details: oos@blackandwhiteoman.com Black 11 Black & & White White 11

Are you

TYPE 2?

TYPE 2 DIABETES is so common today that we believe almost anyone can get it. But it is not so well understood. Those at the highest risk of the disease are those who are obese or overweight, people with family members who have type 2 diabetes and people with metabolic syndrome; older people are also more susceptible to developing the disease since aging makes the body less tolerant of sugars.

But, anyone with type 2 will know that the easiest way to reach a state of comfort level despite the disease is to have proper blood sugar control,

a balanced diet, weight management, regular exercise and proper check ups. Easier said than done. Yet, it is a must as special care is needed to take care of your body, or you will find yourself confronting critical health levels.

Severe hypoglycemia, or diabetic shock, is a serious health risk for anyone with diabetes. This is due to an overdose of insulin and it can occur anytime there is an imbalance between the insulin in your system, the amount of food you eat, or your level of physical activity. It can even happen while you are doing all you

FOOT IN TROUBLE High blood glucose from diabetes causes two problems that can hurt your feet: Nerve damage: One problem is damage to nerves in your legs and feet. With damaged nerves, you might not feel pain, heat, or cold in your legs and feet. A sore or cut on your foot may get worse because you do not know it is there. This lack of feeling is caused by nerve damage, also called diabetic neuropathy.

Nerve damage can lead to a sore or an infection.

Men health

Poor blood flow: The second problem happens when not enough blood flows to your legs and feet.

Poor blood flow makes it hard for a sore or infection to heal. This problem is called peripheral vascular disease, also called PVD. Smoking when you have diabetes makes blood flow problems much worse.

These two problems can work together to cause a foot problem.

SKIN IT Bacterial infections, fungal infections, and itching are common skin problems anyone can develop,

12 November 7-December 6, 2011

think you can do to manage your diabetes.

The symptoms of diabetic shock may seem mild at first. But they should not be ignored. If left untreated, you will be left confronting a host of maladies, which would include foot infections, chronic skin infections, gum disease and tooth loss; vision problems, heart disease and blood circulation problems.

Well, if you are affected, you can look at the essentials. If you have diabetes, your feet, skin, eyes, heart, and teeth and gums need special attention.

but they’re especially problematic for people with diabetes because of poor blood flow and because the body may not be fighting infection well. Avoid extremely serious complications.

EYES Diabetes can damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to serious preventable problems like cataracts, glaucoma, and retinopathy.

With a cataract, the eye’s lens becomes cloudy, blurring vision. While anyone can get cataracts, they may develop at an earlier age -- and progress more quickly -- if you have diabetes.

BITING TEETH Most people develop gum problems during their lives but, if you have diabetes, your risks are higher for serious gum disease -- and for getting it at an earlier age. That’s because, with diabetes, your body is more vulnerable to bacteria and infection. High blood sugar levels can make gum disease worse, resulting in bleeding, tender gums, and gums that pull away from teeth. In time, you may need gum surgery to save your teeth.

Poor blood flow makes it hard for a sore or infection to heal.

This problem is called peripheral vascular disease, also called PVD. Smoking when you have diabetes makes blood flow problems much worse.

These two problems can work together to cause a foot problem

Your Heart is Safe in Apollo’s Hand

P. O. Box 1097, Al Hamriya, PC 131 - Sultanate of Oman. Tel: 24787766, 24788263, 24788265

Men health

Household hazards for COPDs

14 14November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

WATCH OUT, YOUR HOME could prove to be a threat to you if you are having COPD* (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Of course, smoking can be a major problem for those with COPD. Tobacco is a big killer for sure, so the harm it can do is only understandable. But, then, there are enough hazards on the home front than anywhere and if you are someone with a COPD, read this… carefully.

CLEAN THOSE DUCTS So you have a modern home setting? Well, that means, you would have both cooling and heating systems in your home. That is alright, but have you thought about cleaning the vents of these air cooling and heating systems? If not, rest assured that dust and other irritants have already entered your home and it could pose a problem if adequate measures are not taken. The first step is to start cleaning the air ducts and if this is done on a periodical basis, it can help alleviate the problem in a major way.

NO MAGIC IN THESE CARPETS Rugs and carpets are stylish, and have a variety of safety features, especially when you have hyper kids at home. But, unfortunately, they are also a major source of dust and dirt.

Every time you walk on a carpet or rug, you stir up a cloud of dust that you may or may not be able to see.

Wall-to-wall carpets cause more trouble than rugs, because they tend to be bigger (and therefore harbour more irritants) and harder to clean than rugs (which can simply be rolled up and taken to a cleaner). So, in short, bare wood floors are best for COPD members of the household.

CLEAN THOSE CLEANING PRODUCTS Sometimes, the cleaning products can themselves wreak havoc in the life of a COPD patient. Oven

cleaners, spray polish, and other household cleansers -- especially those that contain bleach or ammonia -- can be very irritating. “Anything that gives off fumes can cause problems -- bathroom cleaning products, in particular," experts quoted in various news articles, note.

The room being cleaned should be well ventilated, and someone who doesn’t have COPD should wield the mop and scrub brush (and the person with COPD should steer clear until the job is done). After use, cleaning products should be tightly capped and put away.

FIND A GREEN DRY CLEANER Some people with COPD are sensitive to the odour of newly drycleaned garments. To avoid trouble, take the clothes out of the plastic and let them air out before putting them in your closet. Alternatively, put them in a room with an open window -- and close the door. You might also look for a “green” dry cleaner that doesn’t use harsh chemicals.

CLEAN THOSE SHOWERHEADS Recent research has shown that showerheads can harbour so-called ‘atypical mycobacteria’.

These germs are generally harmless to healthy people, but capable of causing a chronic, lowgrade infection that brings coughing and shortness of breath in people with COPD. Mycobacteria are also resistant to antibiotics, making them hard to eradicate. Clean the showerheads and also have them replaced twice a year.

SAY NO TO PERFUMES Some people with COPD are sensitive to scented soaps, shampoos, deodorants, hairsprays, and cosmetics. If that describes someone in your house, stick with unscented personal products -- and steer clear of perfume and cologne.

Black & White 15

O

Still alive…

all ew h t ff

Off the wall

By Adarsh Madhavan “What do you want most in life?”

It was a question that flabbergasted me.

It was asked to me by someone for whom I had the greatest respect and although I was very young then, I still did not respond to him in the usual manner I was used to doing then. I was just starting out and I had this grand vision that I could just do some odd jobs (like being a reporter for a newspaper) and then go about doing the grand work that I wanted to do and was destined to do.

But, back to the question: what do you want most in life?

I knew it then. I had a clear vision of what I wanted to do then. I was almost in the process of starting out on that trek and I was almost living it.

I was arrogant, but really confident of what I wanted to do and where I was going. I knew what I wanted most in life.

Then.

Today, I have no clue.

Is this the same for all of us who hit this age? We hit the middle of the road and then in the swirling dust of the aftermath of fate, destiny or what have you, and when the dust settles, we are left clutching this question mark.

Why does this happen to people of our age? Simply because we never acted when we should have and then it becomes a life riddled with the thoughts of what you could have, should have; or, if only…if only…

We would be doing everything else but working for that one most important thing we want so much in 16 November 7-December 6, 2011

life. How and when did it change?

How did we veer off from that path?

Somewhere in between the time we started off and realisation hits us again, we had actually fallen off the path and slam banged into a world where the reality was bills, responsibilities, pains, troubles, tribulations and running after mindless pursuits, but which are of so importance to us then…

I am more worried about how I am going to pay off my debts than worrying about making my dreams come true.

I am more anxious about meeting my deadline for the magazine because an hour’s delay will make the printer push in his favourite publication and we will be delayed by a week.

I am more worried about my failing health than thinking of how great it would be to do exactly what I want to do.

I am more concerned about travelling back to India and be there for my parents than to give into temptation and go on a trip of a lifetime to Kenya.

I am more worried about how I am going to look after my child’s future than to think of pursuing my selfish dream.

I am more worried about trying to get some sleep than to stare at the stars (how glittering they may be) even though they have always fascinated me and pushed me to do many things I thought I couldn’t do.

I am keener to look at where exactly I am stepping than to let my head and

heart wander in the clouds…

In short, in the time when I really thought that I had it going, that I knew exactly what I wanted to do, I just went about doing something else. How did this happen? Why did this happen? These are questions I don’t even have the time to mull on, because, it makes no sense in crying over spilt milk.

So, then, how do I respond to this question that I ask myself today?

What do I want most in life and if I have not got what I wanted most in life, why the hell was I still not doing anything about it?

Why was I content to become mediocre and why was I burying my desire deep down in the slush of life?

Will I never make it?

Was I destined to be just this, this, this --- thing I have become somehow as I fell off from the path I was supposed to take?

Was it all too late?

Even if I wanted to make a genuine stab at doing what I wanted to do the most, how am I going to do it; how do I make that start to recovery…?

What? What? My words were echoing dully in the distance, but as I stood there, painfully pushing away the echoes, I heard an answer, not from anywhere around me, but somewhere deep within.

A thump, thump, thump…inside me.

Life still existed, somewhere… adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

Damas Diwali festival

Damas launched its biggest ever Diwali festival in Oman, unveiling 28 new designs from renowned collections, including special one-off designs created to celebrate the festival of lights. To enhance the celebration, Damas is offering bumper raffle draws to win 10 Tola of gold every week for three weeks along with free gifts on selected purchases, including 22k gold coins, pearl jewellery sets, a 24k gold foil photo frame and an exclusive jewellery case.

Rajesh Govindan, country manager, Damas – Oman, said: “Diwali is more than just a celebration of lights – it is a celebration of happiness, togetherness and prosperity. We are delighted to offer our loyal customers a wonderful selection of Diwali jewellery that blends innovation, style and tradition, with an array of free gifts and prizes to ensure you get the best deals during this special occasion. Damas’ Diwali creations continue to showcase our strength as the region’s leading jeweller and will certainly guarantee that this Diwali will be most special for you and your loved ones.”

Gulf Air launches Falcon Cargo Gulf Air, announced the launch of ‘Falcon Cargo’, its newly branded cargo umbrella offering more innovative, cost effective features, products and services to its customers. Falcon Cargo offers a comprehensive suite of services that include Falcon Express, mail, courier, diplomatic and general cargo, animal transportation, dangerous goods, high value cargo as well as other shipments that require special handling. Supported by a state-of-the-art cargo handling system, Falcon Cargo promises quicker decision-making, faster transit time and speedier delivery to its customers. “The launch of Falcon Cargo marks yet another milestone at Gulf Air in getting closer to our customers,” said Gulf Air Senior Manager Rory Black.“Falcon Cargo embodies the unique qualities of the bird - sharp, dynamic, agile and swift - reflected in our service delivery to our customers. In today’s cargo world, your ability to respond to the market rapidly and offer value added solutions is key to success.

Because of our network, size and mixed fleet, we believe Falcon Cargo is uniquely positioned to offer fast and reliable services to the Middle East and beyond.”

The FF in Oman Ferrari’s new FF, the company’s most powerful, versatile four-seater ever, as well as its first ever four-wheel drive car was unveiled to media and guests in Oman during a special event held at the Ferrari dealership in presence of the officials from Ferrari Middle East and Africa and Shanfari Sports Car LLC, the official importer of Ferrari in Oman.

mazdaoman.com wins gold award Popular automobile solutions provider Towell Auto Centre’s (TAC) Mazda Oman website – mazdaoman. com has won the gold award in the automotive category, at the recently held Oman Web Awards 2011. Mazda Oman’s website is a one stop location for all Mazda related information. A smiling Annurag Chawla, head of marketing and communications, Towell Auto Centre (TAC) avers, “We would like to thank the jury members

of the Oman Web Awards for this encouragement and honour. For us at TAC, Oman Web Awards is that perfect platform where we have the opportunity to widen contacts and networks, foster co-operation, enhance knowledge, build capabilities and exchange information.”

Black & White 17

MEDC signs MOU with GEC

Muscat Electricity Distribution Company (MEDC), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Global Exhibitions & Conferences LLC (GEC) for the Home Show 2011. MEDC, the sultanate’s leading power distribution firm, will educate its residential consumers about the importance of energy conservation, electrical fire safety, and protection of electrical assets from theft

and vandalism during the Home Show 2011, which is scheduled to be held in December.

Held under the patronage of the ministry of housing, the Home Show 2011 is Oman’s only international exhibition that will cater specifically to the requirements of homeowners, homebuilders and property developers.

The three-day event, which is organised by GEC, will be held from December 13 to 15 at the Oman International Exhibition Centre. “The Home Show 2011 is an ideal platform for us to encourage our customers to always do their part in conserving energy and in ensuring the efficient use of electricity in their homes,” said Zahran Zahir Al Ruqeishi, corporate communication specialist at MEDC. “In addition, the event will also give us an opportunity to further increase everyone’s awareness on electrical fire safety.”

Oman Islamic Economic Forum Amjaad Development LLC Is planning to organise the Oman Islamic Economic Forum, 2011 (OIEF) on December 17 and 18, at the Al Bustan Ritz Carlton Muscat Hotel. The OIEF will bring together leading practitioners, prominent heads of state, opinion making academicians and other important stakeholders to discuss ways in which Islamic finance dealings can have a positive effect on the global economy and more specifically, the Omani economy. It will introduce best practices in Islamic finance to Omani authorities and other relevant players, and discuss key issues in Islamic finance, enabling them to lay the foundations. The exprime minister of Malaysia, Tun Abdullah bin Haji Ahmad Badawi, in his first visit to Oman,will be an important

keynote speaker at the OIEF. The OIEF will also provide the opportunity for interested foreign stakeholders to network with key Omani players and establish long lasting relationships.

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Omran opens new avenues

Nineteen women from the Al Jabal Al Akhdar community have successfully completed the Springboard Women’s Development Programme spearheaded by Omran in partnership with the British Council.

The award-winning development course conducted by specially trained professionals aims to nurture 18 November 7-December 6, 2011

women to their fullest potential.

Delivered over four weeks, the programme identified clear, practical and realistic steps women can take to achieve a new sense of purpose and positive outlook while instilling greater self-confidence, enhancing leadership capacity and improving communications in addition to analytical and problem solving skills.

Participants in the program described their experience as invaluable and one that has allowed them to

develop a more positive attitude, take on more responsibilities with increased self-esteem and motivation. Fatima Al Suleimany explained, “The programme has had a profound impact on my life and has reaffirmed my role as a woman in the workplace, at home and in society. It has taught me effective techniques to broaden my horizons and embrace my strong personality in order to address and overcome life’s many challenges.”

Nawras customer satisfaction levels

and senior management appointments Nawras recorded customer satisfaction levels of 92 per cent in September 2011 up from 87 per cent in December 2010. From the day Nawras started its business in 2005, devotion to customers and their satisfaction have been at the centre of every aspect of its operation. Over the last year or so, the company has also been very focussed on the development of Nawras people, services and shareholders.

To continue delivering improvements in customer experience while looking

for even greater effectiveness and efficiency in operations, Nawras is delighted to announce four new appointments within the senior management team. Said Ahmed Safrar is promoted to chief customer experience officer and a member of the executive committee team and Hussain Al-Lawati is promoted to acting chief sales and distribution officer. Wolfgang Wemhoff joins Nawras as chief technical officer while Jim Maxwell is promoted to chief counsel. Chief executive officer

Ross Cormack commented on both The Nielsen Company survey results and the new appointments, by saying, “We are always looking at better, faster and newer ways of working across the business and so naturally we are thrilled that these survey results show our customers are enjoying Nawras services. To continue delivering caring, excellent and pleasingly different services, I am delighted to welcome Wolfgang and to warmly congratulate Said, Hussain and Jim on their promotions.

Salalah Marriott Resort celebrates customer appreciation week On the occasion of Marriott’s Global Customer Appreciation Week, held from the October 29 to November 4, 2011. Salalah Marriott Resort celebrates a week with its top producing clients in Muscat and Salalah to express their sincere gratitude for the outstanding support of the only Marriott Resort in the Sultanate throughout the year 2011. During the global customer appreciation week, Marriott International celebrates relationships with their customers all over the globe, this year under the theme “Find your World”. The Salalah Marriott sales team will be visiting various companies, including top DMC and corporate accounts and embassies in Muscat and Salalah. Ahmed El-Meligui, director of sales and marketing at the Salalah Marriott Resort says: Global

Customer Appreciation Week has become a true pillar of the Marriott Culture and relationships with our customers is something that Marriott takes great pride in. We celebrate this week to emphasise the importance of our customers and guests as we do appreciate their support towards the only Marriott Resort in the Sultanate and to thank them for their loyalty to our Brand.”

During this week a 'spirit to serve' initiative is planned where old papers, newspapers and magazines will be collected and jointly recycled at the Marriott Resort as well as in the sales and marketing office in Muscat “to make a difference and to show, that each individual action does matter in order to preserve the environment, not only for ourselves, but moreover for the communities and our future generations,” concludes El-Meligui. In addition 20 trees will be planted on the resort grounds to preserve their natural surroundings and resources.

Samsonite travel lifestyle brand The president of Samsonite Asia Pacific and Middle East, Dr. Ramesh Tainwala and his team accompanied

by Subrata Dutta, managing director, Samsonite South Asia and ME, along with R. Jaikrishnan, VP, Middle East and Shaheen Jamil, deputy director, Middle East visited Muscat recently. During a special press briefing held in Muscat recently, Dr Tainwala apprised the press delegates on the plans for Samsonite and American

Tourister for the Middle East region and Oman. Samsonite has been the No 1 luggage brand in the world for a very long time since its inception in 1910 and today when consumers across the world hear the word Samsonite, they immediately associate it with top quality premium travel lifestyle brand with a great heritage and legacy.

Black & White 19

Oman meets Lower Saxony The German Industry and Commerce Office (AHK) organised the visit of the German Business Delegation from the state of Niedersachsen (Lower-Saxony) under the umbrella of the state secretary Dr Oliver Liersch, ministry of economy, labour and transportation of Niedersachsen, Germany.

After the very successful trips to the gulf region in previous years, the state secretary of the lower saxony ministry of economy, Dr Oliver Liersch, visited Oman and the UAE again with another business delegation between October 24 and 28.

The trip focussed around economic and political talks as well as receptions and contacts with the German political representation, the

German Chamber of Commerce Network and German companies in the target countries. The AHK organised a business cooperation forum at the Grand Hyatt Muscat, where Omani companies and the members of the Business delegation had the opportunity to introduce themselves and discuss potential partnership possibilities. "Our successful concept of cooperation forums in the AGCC region seems to be the most successful in the Sultanate. German companies seeking business opportunities and partnership in Oman always receive genuine interest and positive response from the Omani Business Community," says Sousann AlHeureithi, representative of the German Industry and Commerce

Office (AHK) in Oman. However a mutual follow up from both parties afterwards is essential. The AHK continues to establish a wide network of business contacts and interests from both, the German and Omani Companies.” With the support of the Public Authority of Investment Promotion and Export Development (PAIPED) the State Secretary, Dr Oliver Liersch invited high-ranking members of the local Omani business community to a truly enjoyable networking dinner with the guest of honour, His Highness Sayyid Faisal bin Turki Al Said.

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Oman Billawa’s 2nd anniversary The Billawa community families gathered to celebrate their 2nd anniversary of Oman Billawas at the grand hall, Al Falaj, recently. This year saw Oman Billawas stage their biggest event in three years since their inception. This was the first time that special guests were invited from India, as well as from the Middle East. In this year’s celebrations, the maximum number of members participated in the various events. The programme started with lighting of the lamp by the chief guest Dr Sathish Nambiar and the other exclusively invited VIP guests, founding committee members, Ashok Suvarna, S.K. Poojary, Dr Anchan C.K, 20 November 7-December 6, 2011

Umesh Bantwal, along with the working committee members, A.J. Sanil, Guruprasad Amin, Gangadhar Poojary, H. Suhan, Suchethana Anchan, Ramakrishna and Kavitha Sanil.

Low international calling rates with renna mobile! renna mobile announced the launch of its new International Calling Promotion, a three months offer starting on October 26 whereby customers can enjoy low calling rates from 6 pm to 6 am by subscribing to one of two bundles.

“It’s easy, customers can subscribe to this service by either sending the key words INT1 for a subscription period of one day and a price of OMR 1 or INT3 for 30 days for a price of OMR 3 to 90882 and enjoy the best international calling rates from 6pm to 6am, customers can also contact our

customer service team on 1240 to subscribe,” said Joakim Klingefjord, chief executive officer, renna mobile.

In addition to this promotion, renna mobile has also announced a new Haj promotion starting from October 26 until the November 30, of which customers can receive and make calls from Saudi Arabia to Oman for a low rate of 99 Baisas per minute!

All customers will automatically be subscribed to this promotion.

“Our team is continuously working on improving customer offers and packages that reflect customer

lifestyle and daily needs.

Our international calling promotion and Haj promotion have been developed to provide great value for staying connected with friends and family.

These promotions come as a natural extension of our promise to customers, we hope customers will enjoy these low calling rates in addition to our broad range of unique services,” added Klingefjord.

Contact 80073662 or www.rennamobile.com.

Zahara Tours FAM trip for Indian travel agents Zahara Tours, in alliance with the India office of ministry of tourism and Oman Air, recently played host to a group of reputed tour operators from India, showcasing the scenic spots of Oman. This trip was organised by Zahara Tours in collaboration with the ministry of tourism, Oman Air, Six Senses Zighy Bay, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah

Resort & Spa, The View Retreat, Desert Nights Camp and Ras Al Jinz Turtle Reserve and Visitor Centre.

The top management representatives of seven of India’s large Tour Operators made their maiden trip to Oman.

They spent seven nights / eight days covering Musandam Peninsula, Muscat, Nizwa, Jebel Shams, Wahiba Sands and Ras Al Jinz.

Gautam Broota from Zahara Tours said, “We see India as a potential market to promote Oman keeping in mind the superb connectivity available from 10 cities and the travel time. With more and more Indians opting for luxurious holidays abroad and looking for leisure destinations with richer experience, Oman totally fits the bill. Such trips will definitely help us augment the awareness of this beautiful destination as the travel agents get firsthand experience that will aid them in selling the destination to the Indian customers.

Black & White 21

“Success breeds success”

By Dr CK Anchan

Dr Anchan C.K. managing director, World Wide Business House

“Success breeds success.” Legendary soccer player, Mia Hamm, made this interesting remark. Success is a mental attitude that translates into tangible results. When you want to succeed, you will pull out all the stops to achieve your goal.

When you are successful you tend to be more optimistic. Success makes you feel more righteous, more confident and more valuable. Therefore you will present yourself with more confidence and confidence sells. Confidence assures your prospects that you believe in what you sell.

People who succeed put in superhuman effort to meet their target. Once they achieve success, they believe that they are invincible. It is this self-belief that carries them towards the next success. Hence there is no doubt that success will truly bring further success.

When you are successful it is likely that you are doing the right things. And when you are rewarded with success you will tend to continue doing the right things. If what you are doing is working you will probably stick with it What about the ones who failed? If you allow failure to change your psychological makeup, you will find it tough to break the mold. However, if you challenge your failure and work towards success, you can turn the tide.

Smart people are willing to learn from whatever or whoever is teaching the lesson . Smart people always look for the lesson. Dumb people judge the teacher and miss the lesson.

“Success has a much greater influence on the brain than failure,” says Massachusetts Institute of Technology neuroscientist Earl Miller, who led the research. He believes the findings apply to many aspects of daily life in which failures are left unpunished but achievements are rewarded in one way or another—such as when your teammates cheer your strikes at the bowling lane.

Management talk

So for me it is really all about our attitude. A good attitude attracts more of the same to it and brings a happy and good life of abundance. For you are happy with whatever live brings, but a bad attitude pushes things away from you so that in the end, all you are left with is yourself and your bad attitude.

Success is definitely very important in life and every one must create success in whatever they do, but blindly following artificial definitions of success is befooling oneself and choice lies with us only ...

22 22November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

In Black & White

In Black...

We got emotional when Yanni told us that he was overwhelmed and had goose bumps when he understood that his music could change the lives of the visually impaired Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief THANK YOU YANNI, THANK YOU FOLKS It all started off as an idea. Then what gave spark to the idea and what gave wings to a thought all seem like a blur today as we look back on our fascinating journey with Yanni in Oman. Hard work pays off!

That much we can say. Yanni Live in Oman was not just a first-ever concert of its kind in Oman -- it was a first for us to host such a huge concert! First things apart, the sheer magnitude of hosting such a big event played on our minds, but, someone up above did not let any obstacle in front of us and we are here today, enjoying the success of a concert that took us all beyond the usual.

Although we made an announcement of the event in the press in June, it actually took us from June to October to get the paperwork done. And this included getting approval of hosting the event at the magnificent 5000 capacity grand hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), again a first of many firsts. It was never open to public events – we were the first. We can humbly yet proudly say that we were instrumental in getting the venue open to all public events. The challenges were there in plenty.

Sometimes, the more we tried, the lesser things happened and sometimes when we were about to give in, things would get done. Finally, on October 3, we got the final approval from the SQU authorities. In short, the B&W team worked a good 20 days to get the hall filled and have a successful concert.

OMR34,000 TO CHARITY We had hurdles at every step, rules and regulations to follow, from getting cargo clearances to radios and wireless walkie talkies approved, we walked many a mile. We had initially approached Al Noor

Association for the Blind to be one of the beneficiaries but they backed out, disassociating themselves from the Yanni show. It took us a while to understand why it is complicated to donate voluntarily and get rebuffed. But all is well that ends well. We were fortunate enough to raise good awareness and even take Yanni to Omar Bin Khattab Institute and raise funds and treatment costs to a value of OMR34300 through this concert supporting the institute as well as the Ministry of Health research unit for the treatment equipment for visually challenged children. We got emotional when Yanni told us that he was overwhelmed and had goose bumps when he understood that his music could change the lives of the visually impaired.

THANK YOU ALL We really appreciate and thank all of those who joined us for the Yanni concert at the Grand Hall on October 26.

We have captured the moments of the grand show for a photo special in this issue of B &W. These would include glimpses of the concert, Yanni’s stay in Oman and behindthe-scene photos… It would have been impossible, if many of them in official and unofficial capacity did not help us out to make this event happen. And finally, a thank you to those 864 guests who flew in from various regions of the AGCC to attend the concert … thank you all.

& White Black & White 23

Truth of touch A musical miracle swept Oman a few weeks back. A 57-year old American-Greek instrumentalist, composer and keyboardist was at the helm of this miracle. Yanni magic swept Oman and the wave of people that thronged the Grand Hall at the Sultan Qaboos University was proof of the love they had for this unique musician. He rained down hope, love, strength and peace into the hearts of many here and like he said in an interview with the Black & White, his music had the ability to bring people back from the brink of suicide, from the edge of death and brought about sheer miracles into many lives. He did the same here with his scintillating musical masterpieces.

During his visit, Yanni took the opportunity to meet with the students of the Omar bin Khattab Institute for the Blind. “A visit which will be forever embedded in my heart,” Yanni said, explaining how he was touched by the love and affection of the students. Here, in this photo special, we try to cover Yanni’s visit to Oman and the mesmerising effect it has left on the music lovers here.

Photos by K. J. George, A. R. Rajkumar, Sultan Khalfan and Ali Al Raisi

B&W Xclusive

Arrival

24 November 7-December 6, 2011

Oct 24, 2011

Omar bin Khattab visit

Oct 25, 2011

Black & White 25

B&W Xclusive 26 November 7-December 6, 2011

Dinner at Heritage Village, Shangri-La

Oct 25, 2011

Black & White 27

B&W Xclusive 30 November 7-December 6, 2011

Black & White 31

B&W Xclusive

Concert at SQU Grand Hall

32 November 7-December 6, 2011

Oct 26, 2011

Black & White 33

B&W Xclusive 34 November 7-December 6, 2011

Departure

Oct 27, 2011

Black & White 35

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Blackandwhite Oman

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.

By Dave Green

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

1 3 4 8 5 3 9 8 4 7 5 3 5 8 4 6 8 7 6 5 8 2 8 1 5 6 9 7 2 3 9 2 4 3 8/23

Difficulty Level

By Dave Green

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

3 7 8 4 6 2 5 9 1 4 1 8 9 7 5 4 6 5 2 4 9 1 2 5 8 2 6 4 4 8/24

Difficulty Level

3 5 7 9 8 1 4 2 6

Difficulty Level

4 1 6 7 2 5 9 3 8

8 6 5 2 1 7 3 4 9

2 3 9 5 4 8 7 6 1

1 7 4 3 6 9 8 5 2

7 9 1 6 5 3 2 8 4

6 8 2 1 7 4 5 9 3

5 4 3 8 9 2 6 1 7 8/23

9 6 4 3 8 2 5 1 7

5 2 7 4 1 6 8 3 9

Difficulty Level

8 1 3 7 9 5 6 2 4

4 3 5 2 7 1 9 6 8

2 7 9 6 5 8 1 4 3

6 8 1 9 4 3 2 7 5

3 4 8 1 6 9 7 5 2

7 9 6 5 2 4 3 8 1

1 5 2 8 3 7 4 9 6

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

9 2 8 4 3 6 1 7 5

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

Solution:

8/24

Black & White 37

AJAY AJA AY E ENTERPRISES NTERPRISES PO P OB BOX OX 554, 4, P PC C 1100.

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TEL T EL : 24815485 24815485 FFAX AX : 24815490 248154900 EE-MAIL: -MAIL: marketing@albahja.com marketing@albahja.com W Website: ebsite: www.albahja.com www.albahja.com

Your sta ARIES March 21-April 20 Changes in life can help you to appreciate others feelings and emotional insecurities. As long as you are sure of your position, you should prevail. Look to your dreams for a clue to what you might need to change. You may get caught up in details when this is really a good time to enjoy art, beauty, love, and recreation.

GEMINI May 21-June 21

TAURUS April 21-May 20 Recent chain of events needs to be addressed. Keep recent promise to continue to keep yourself fit, will benefit you both physically and emotionally. You could be easily irritated by small matters and may not appreciate others criticising your methods. Try not to turn this into a war. There are, after all, many ways to approach a problem.

CANCER June 22-July 23

LEO July 24-August 23

Petty jobs demand your time and attention. Don’t worry, this is not permanent. In fact, you may find yourself in a much more sociable mood. Give yourself the right to try some different approaches, bold and direct, demure and indirect. You have to stretch if you want to keep an exciting relationship.

If your relationships are less than ideal, this is probably as good a time as any to resolve those difficulties. Keep a smile on your face and you’ll be amazed at what you can get away with. This approach is one that enables you to be strong while appearing gentle. Some intense debate could prove engaging late.

You need to be more compassionate towards loved ones and learn to enjoy the simple treasures you possess. You might be feeling financially pinched, don’t let that shut down your plans for a good time. The company you keep could lift your spirits and remind you that fun doesn’t have to be expensive.

VIRGO August 24-September 23 It is all about your careful, cautious and conscientious workmanship in everything you do.

You might do well to tiptoe around someone who is irritable. You haven’t done anything wrong. Events this week may become a starting point for personal and professional successes.

YANNI (BORN NOVEMBER 14, 1954) in Kalamata, Greece, is a self-taught pianist, keyboardist, and composer. He earned Grammy nominations for his 1992 album, Dare to Dream, and the 1993 follow-up, In My Time. His breakthrough success came with the 1994 release of Yanni Live at the Acropolis, deemed to be the second best-selling music video of all time. Yanni has since performed live in concert before in excess of two million people in more than 20 countries around the world. He has accumulated more than 35 platinum and gold albums globally, with sales totaling over 20 million copies. Yanni is considered to be one of the top fundraisers of all time for public television.

His compositions have been included in all Olympic Games television broadcasts since 1988, and his music has been used extensively in television and televised sporting events. His music

Horoscope

is frequently described as "new age", though he prefers the term "contemporary instrumental".

38 November 7-December 6, 2011

ars LIBRA September 24-October 22 Be sure to spend some quality time with those who really matter to you. Keep some moments for yourself and reflect how funny life can change. If you push hard, you’ll get a lot of resistance. If you use humour and playfulness, you’ll have a much better chance at getting cooperation when you most need it.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 Long distance communication will bring you closer to your goals. Investigate new possibilities in matters of business and trading. Use your productive time to organise others, lead the way to the top. You may be pleasantly surprised with other’s reactions.

Something complicated may come to light.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Objectivity is needed for you to make the best decision. The better choice should become very clear to you.

A simple observation can provoke a strong response. You may want to discontinue old friendships and begin new ones with individuals who share your ideals and who you can trust.

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 Time to show how grown up you really are. Freedom will come when you’re hanging with friends. A partner could change directions without telling you. If you have any doubts about where you stand, make sure that you ask the right questions and insist on getting answers.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 Conversations with neighbours or siblings could test your patience, remember, you are not required to fix all the problems you hear about. Decide how far you’re willing to go and stick to it. A reunion with family, or with those who feel like family, seems appropriate.

PISCES February 20-March 20 Your ability to work through complex situations can come in very handy. Money will become much more plentiful and easier to come by. It’s a good time to ask for a raise in pay or pay off any outstanding loan. You can improve your credit standing.

Black & White 39

AJAY AJ JAY YE ENTERPRISES NTERPRIS SES PO P OB BOX OX 554, 4, P PC C 1100.

00.

TEL T EL : 24815485 24815485 FFAX AX : 24815490 24815490 EE-MAIL: -MAIL: marketing@albahja.com marketing@albaahja.ccom Website: www.albahja.com

Kidstuff 40 40November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

Facts on

WOODPECKERS How much do you really know about these outstanding birds? There are more than 180 species of woodpeckers worldwide, but none of them are found in Australia, Madagascar or New Zealand.

A woodpecker’s tongue is up to four inches long depending on the species, and it wraps around the skull. Many woodpeckers have barbed tongues that help them extract bugs from trees and holes.

Most woodpeckers have zygodactyl feet, which means they have toes facing the front and toes facing the back to help them grip trees and poles vertically. They use those toes with their stiff tail feathers to brace on trees as they climb.

Woodpeckers eat bugs, sap, fruit, nuts and seeds. In the backyard, they are often attracted to suet feeders or nut feeders.

The two largest woodpeckers in the world are the imperial woodpecker and the ivory-billed woodpecker, but both may be extinct. The largest confirmed woodpecker is the great slaty woodpecker of Southeast Asia, which measures 20 inches long. The pileated woodpecker is the largest North American woodpecker species.

Woodpeckers do not have vocal songs, and instead they drum on resonant objects such as hollow trees and logs, utility poles, chimneys, rain gutters and trash cans. Woodpeckers drum to attract mates, establish territories and otherwise communicate, and both genders are known to drum.

Between feeding, excavating nest cavities and drumming, woodpeckers can peck up to 20 times per second, or a total of 8,000 to 12,000 pecks per day.

Woodpeckers don’t get headaches from pecking. They have reinforced skulls structured to spread the impact force, and their brains are tightly cushioned and protected.

The average life span of a wild woodpecker can last from 4 to 11 years, depending on the species.

Tongue twisters How much wood could a wood chopper chop, if a wood chopper could chop wood?

Black & White 41

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 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

42 November 7-December 6, 2011

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, SALALAH, SUR, SOHAR, NIZWA, BARKA, KASAB MUSCAT continued...

SALALAH

SOHAR

NIZWA

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 – principals’ office Caledonian college – principal’s office Oman Foot ball association

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

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)

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

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

SUR 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

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 Marriott 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 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

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

FREE FORTNIGHTLY MAGAZINE AVAILABLE ALL OVER OMAN ON 7TH & 21ST

20, 500 COPIES (BEING AUDITED) Circulation enquiries: 98675976/24565697

Black & White 43

Cooking with

OLIVES

Cooking

The versatile olive fruit can be eaten as an appetiser, either on its own or stuffed, or used as a cooking ingredient. The small, oval olive fruit has a flavour ranging from salty to mild and sweet. It can be harvested at any stage – the immature fruit is green; it turns red-brown and then black when fully ripened – which accounts in part for the variation in flavour.

Here are easy recipes with Olives… try them out

44 November 7-December 6, 2011

OLIVE SPREAD SNACKERS Ingredients 3 cups pitted black olives 1 1/2 cups chopped walnuts 1/2 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon sour cream 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon dried minced onion Method In a food processor, blend pitted black olives, walnuts, mayonnaise, sour cream, thyme, black pepper, salt, garlic powder and dried minced onion. Chill in the refrigerator until serving.

STUFFED OLIVES Ingredients 1 (6 ounce) can large, pitted black olives 4 ounces cream cheese

Method Using a butter knife, simply fill each olive with the desired amount of cream cheese. Serve on a decorative plate!

OLIVE-CUCUMBER FINGER SANDWICHES Ingredients 1 medium cucumber 1 cup water 1/2 cup cider vinegar 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder 1/4 teaspoon onion salt 1/8 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 36 thin slices bread Paprika 36 stuffed olives

Directions With a fork, score cucumber lengthwise; cut into thin slices. Place in a bowl; add water and vinegar. Let stand for 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in a small mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion salt and Worcestershire sauce.

Cut bread into flower shapes with a 2-1/2-in. cookie cutter.

Spread each with cream cheese mixture; sprinkle with paprika and top with a cucumber slice. Remove pimientos from olives; place in center of cucumber. Cut olives into five wedges and arrange around pimiento in a pinwheel pattern.

Black & White 45

First Free Fortnightly magazine

AVAILABLE

all over Oman on 7th & 21st of every month ‡0XVFDW ‡6DODODK ‡6RKDU ‡6XU ‡1L]ZD ‡%DUND ‡,EUD ‡,EUL ‡5XVWDT ‡.DVDE

FREE

20,500 copies (being audited) Circulation Enquiries: 98675976/24565697 Advertisement Enquiries: 97679290/24565697

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It's my life

Simplicity… where are you?

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

By Vandana Shah “I think you look fat," said a woman to me who weighed just a mere 200 kilos."You didn’t look after your mother," said my sister to me who didn’t even visit her mother in the hospital while cancer claimed her body but not her soul…” You definitely need to consider respecting your in laws when married ‘said my aunt who had herself thrown her frail motherin-law out of the house the minute the poor lady made the mistake of signing off her worldly possessions to my aunt’s husband and so on goes the raving and ranting….what is the common thread in these? It’s a bit intriguing...

These are the voices of critics which never ever die down and only get worse with their own failures. They spot a failure even before the person performing the act does it’ “You know Aishwarya Rai is too plastic to be beautiful," said another aunt whose daughter looks like the backside of a crushed bus and this is on a good day. I believe the role of critics in your life is –NOTHING. That is because they have failed at nothing because they tried nothing. They are failures of the worst kind as they never attempted anything. Sure they are experts at picking a hole in your love, work, and looks in everything that is called life. They are bitter and cynical and I don’t find their observations enriching.

The only thing one must do is keep them at an arm’s length and be sure to take your chances in life critic’s nowithstanding. anyone that listens to them has already lost the battle which accompanies any success. A critic is no one’s friend and the so called suggestions are actually pessimism, cynicism and maybe a desire to be in your shoes.

The best example is a film critic who vociferously tore apart most movies produced whether they were hots or flops until he made his own which was not only was bitterly criticsed but also was a resounding failure at the box office …Clearly he had learned nothing from his criticism…I REST MY CASE. So stay away from all critics and go ahead and make a success of your life and if you fail it’s at least a step closer to your dream.

Till next time, love.

Vandana Shah, Author 360 Degrees Back To life, editor of Ex-Files. www.vandanashah.com.

Email me what you’d like to say on 360degreesbacktolife@gmail.com Follow me on twitter Vandy4PM

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Not a FAIR WORLD, so GET CRACKING!

Shape n sound

WHO SAID THAT THIS was a fair world? No way.

It ain’t a fair world at all. If it was a fair world then you would get to do as you like, live as you want, eat, drink and be merry and you will still look as beautiful as ever. If any of you women out there have managed to do the above, then we are going to doff our hats at you – for you are an incredible woman. But for the rest of them, although you might be someone they admire and envy (more so the latter), they are not going to follow your steps and if they do, well, good luck to them, that is all I can say. Whatever anyone says, you cannot make merry and still remain thin and beautiful. If you are going to be undisciplined, then it will show on your face, your body and your mental well being.

Some women are blessed. So blessed that whatever damage they do to themselves, they are still likely to escape the ravages of time and self abuse. But rarely do women who have treated themselves badly ever manage to escape the results of their doings. As the adage goes, as you sow, so you reap.

So, for the rest of the women in this world, two things are paramount: exercise and diet. The more they stick with these two, the more she is going to enjoy life because exercise and diet are going to give women not only physical, but also mental satisfaction. So, let us make exercise and diet the mantra of life.

If you ask me, I would say that exercise is more important to a woman than a man because a woman’s body goes through quite a lot. In fact, nature’s fury wreaks more havoc in a woman than a man. The latter may suffer, but mostly due to self abuse.

FIGURATIVELY SPEAKING Women lose their figures and undergo various changes before, during and after childbirth. While the birth of a child is a joy that cannot be replaced, it takes a lot of hard work and effort to get your body back to the condition and shape it was before you conceived. A regular exercise routine not only keeps you healthy and flexible during pregnancy but also helps you recover your stamina faster once you give birth. Consult your physician before you start exercising, both during and after pregnancy.

48 November 7-December 6, 2011

DON’T PAUSE – MOVE ON Today, there are enough and more ways to manage menopause symptoms, from alternative therapies (such as acupuncture) to eating a healthy diet. However, one simple thing you can do right now is exercise. If you regularly exercise, you will be able to manage the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause as well as the related health concerns, such as heart disease and osteoporosis.

Other benefits of exercise include: • Reduced stress. Menopause can often lead to depression, anxiety and stress. Exercise is proven to help reduce stress and improve your mood.

• Weight loss. Exercise can help create a calorie deficit, which is what you want when it comes to losing body fat.

• Reduction of hot flashes. Some research has found that exercise increases estrogen levels, which can decrease the severity of hot flashes.

• Increased bone mass. Strength training and impact activities (like walking or running) can help strength the bones and prevent osteoporosis.

• Reduced risk of high blood pressure, heart attacks and strokes.

MAKE HEADS TURN Women who are obese or overweight are more prone to cancer of the breast and the reproductive organs. They are also beset by thyroid problems and infertility. A regular exercise routine that allows you to sweat removes toxins from your body and keeps you feeling fresh and young.

Your skin feels supple and makes you look much younger than you are. Exercise keeps you stress free and leaves you with enough energy to take care of your home, your spouse, your kids and your job without feeling the onset of a nervous breakdown.

Your workout time is your own quality time that allows you moments of peace amidst the madness of a household that demands you constant attention otherwise. And then, last but certainly not the least, there’s the fact that you feel good and get a pick me up without any stimulants each time you fit into a dress a size smaller or when you turn heads on the street.

Black & White 49

Shape n sound

Can a woman die of a

50 50November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

Jane was suddenly dumped by her man of three years and she was devastated. That night, after being summarily dumped, she lay on the floor of her bathroom floor with pain in her chest. Later, when she did land in the hospital, her doctors told her that what she had undergone recently was a “broken heart”.

No jokes. The broken heart syndrome exists. So far it has been reported more in women than men (we are not disputing this at this stage and perhaps may take the men’s view on this at a later stage).

that it is rendered so helpless that it is unable to pump blood out to the body; which means there is a great chance to develop heart failure and thereby make it a life threatening situation.

Especially for women, post menopause. But, 90 percent of the time it happens following an episode of extreme emotional stress. And not exactly after a woman receives a ‘Dear John’ (rather, 'Dear Jane') letter. It is mostly caused when the woman in question is confronted with a sudden shock news of a beloved one’s demise, armed robbery and other horrible stress related incidents.

Such similarities pose grave problems for even paramedics and doctors in that some of them fail to separate the grain from the chaff.

When you are having a BHS episode, you get chest pain, experience shortness of breath, arm pain and you sweat. Hey, were you talking about a heart attack or BHS?

BROKEN HEART SYNDROME The term ‘broken heart syndrome’ actually comes from the time that researchers noticed that many people with the condition were grieving.

It was found that they experienced this after the death of a loved one, a spouse, a parent. Some even complained of the same symptoms at a funeral.

Others have also experienced BHS after sudden and/or nasty surprises like being in an accident, being abused (verbally and physically), or occasions when they are actually ‘heart broken’. It has been found that the post trauma of being jilted also stoked the flames of BHS. Experts note that these types of events could affect the sympathetic nervous system, which doctors have called the ‘fight or flight’ mechanism.

When the body unleashes a flood of chemicals, including adrenaline, that sudden flood can stun the heart muscle, which can affect the pumping mechanism. In short, it stops pumping.

HEART ATTACK OR BHS? Doctors say that during an actual BHS, the heart muscle is affected

Whatever, as a laywoman, the only thing that you need to know is that you shouldn’t take any chances.

So, if you experience any of those symptoms, go to a doctor/hospital at once. So, yes, it feels like a heart attack, except that it is not. And that means it requires a different treatment method.

The BHS also has a different name: Takotsubo syndrome (tako-tsubo is a pot used to catching sea creatures, mostly, octopus). The left ventricle in the hearts of patients with BHS took on an unusual shape, not unlike that of a fishing pot and hence the name.

When you are with a doctor after such an episode, make sure that you also tell him/her whether you have had also experienced some form of grief, stress, or emotional trauma.

To diagnose a BHS, doctors usually perform an angiogram. This provides images of the major blood vessels that supply your heart. During a heart attack, one or more arteries are often blocked. But during broken heart syndrome, these blood vessels look OK. Your doctor is likely going to want to also perform an echocardiogram.

This takes pictures of your heart, which may reveal the tell-tale fishing pot shape.

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Shape n sound 52 52November November7-December 7-December6, 6,2011 2011

with a snip here and there SALLY STARED AT THE MIRROR for long. There was no denying it. She looked her age. As she stared sadly at the once pretty face which now looked weather beaten and yes, old, a thought came into her mind. Her friend, Sandra, who was two years older than her (although she claims she was much younger than her) recently had a close cropped cut. She had straight hair and had a slender and oval face, so she looked, even though Sally hated to admit it, swell. And, well, several years younger.

As the thought germinated in her, Sally suddenly realised what she wanted to do. She was going to cut her years out with a simple but effective strategy: a simple hair cut. And she did. She went for a cut that actually cut so many years from her face and she actually looked not just trendy, but young. Are hair cuts the new youth serums?

Whatever it may or may not be, it does makes you look good and young, yes, don’t forget that. The simple thing to understand is that your hair and face change as you get older. So, make that cut with this fact in mind. Get the right cut and colour and it is going to give a big boost to your overall appearance.

According to local hair stylists, you have to focus on some key factors: bone structure, hair texture, and the most important one – your capacity to maintain whatever style you prefer.

Here are some quick hair style tips.

• If your plan is to firm up the jaw line, then, try to get nape-length layers that are short at the back • If your plan is to accentuate your good features, then try to cut layers that point towards the area by ending at the same level. Let us say you own a terrific smile, then go for chin-length pieces in front that will strike at the same level as your lips • Let us assume that your aim is to hide the forehead wrinkles, then try eyebrow skimming bangs that will cover lines and play up your eyes • If you want to sculpt your cheekbones, then try creating volume at the crown and ask for layers at the top.

• Let us say that you are looking at downplaying the neck wrinkles, then all you have got to do is to have a short cut, but don’t forget to keep a few wispy, long strands in the back And so on…

There is a right cut for every face and it is up to you to find it out. Searching for a perfect cut need not be a lifelong quest. As a famous hair stylist said: “Whether your locks are curly or straight, long or short, the key is to stop fighting your texture and to start using it to your advantage!”

So, as they say in the famous shoe adage: just do it!

Black & White 53

SUPW

Hooked

By Priya Arunkumar It was a weekly ritual!

Where is your needle? She would scream at me.

Followed by the usual tagline: Out of my class, you are wasting everyone’s time!

“Maam, I would stammer and say: I had it now, I guess I dropped it down, when you yelled at me," I feign innocence.

She was always hopping mad, my SUPW teacher.

I would sit down, under my school bench, searching for the needle I never brought, and whiled away a good 15 minutes. I did it all the time; it was just a weekly class of 35 minutes, so a very easy weekly chore! And needles are so teenie-weenie, anyone could lose it anytime!

The teacher waited impatiently and finally threw me out of the class. She was a sadist too, ensured that I stood, right in front of the class door and not run away to the grounds to play.

The girls in the class were taught needle work, embroidery, while the boys learned some sort of gadget or rather electronic work. The boys were the lucky lot.

Well, I do things on purpose. Especially when I hate doing something on compulsion!

In my entire school life I never took a needle to class, I hated stitching, I still hate.

I would religiously question, “Why should I learn embroidery? Why can’t I choose what I want?” And the reply would be the same. Syllabus says so.

Why not pottery? I would irritate the lady and she would retort saying she didn’t know pottery! No SUPW for you at school maam?

That would be the final straw and out I am from the class again.

She would take me aside and advise

me to be good and to go with the flow.

Pottery is not for girls, she would say, why don’t you choose something else?

And I would say, gardening… but the school has a very small garden, I am just one teacher, I cannot handle two sections at the same time she would explain.

Gardening again is not for girls, you should try embroidery, and it is a good leisure hobby. But… there her patience would snap and she would, in a fit of rage, throw me out of the class again.

At home, while I fidget with the complaint letter that needed my dad’s signature, my mind would look at all possible excuses I could tell my father.

He would sign the letter, calling me a disgrace and very carefully advise me the significance of learning good things in life. Stitching will help you in future; maybe you could mend a tear.

What about Mom? She would do it for me… and my mom would grin silently.

Or maybe you could buy me new clothes?

Dad would shake his head in despair and quickly sign off the note apologising for my bad behaviour and it back to school again.

By the way, SUPW meant Socially Useful Productive Work (read that as ‘Some Useful Periods are Wasted’) was a compulsory subject in our school, where students could ‘choose’ whatever they wanted to learn - embroidery and knitting, gardening, pottery, cooking, about electrical appliances, painting and the like.

I hated SUPW. I still do. I could have learned pottery, or gardening or even painting… Sigh! If only the school authorities believed that girls could do it all. priya@blackandwhiteoman.com