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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

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Liberals blast calls to ban Xmas celebrations Al-Youm TV challenges closure • MPs question govt plan on bedoons

By B Izzak and Agencies conspiracy theories

Arab Spring masterminds

KUWAIT: Several Kuwaiti liberal civil societies have condemned calls from some organisations and individuals forbidding the celebration of Christmas in the state, a report said yesterday. The civil societies said in a statement published by AlJarida newspaper that every year at this time certain groups declare celebrating Christmas and New Year as forbidden

from an Islamic point of view. “Because such actions represent an insult to Christianity and Christians ... we strongly reject the publication of such calls,” a statement signed by nine liberal groups said, adding that such calls were an act of hatred criminalised under the international law.

The statement did not say who issued the calls, but usually some radical religious individuals and small groups issue

fatwas (religious edict) forbidding Christmas celebrations. However, the mainstream Islamic organisations do not issue such calls. There are no government restrictions on religious or social celebrations of Christmas or New Year in the conservative emirate, but social parties on any occasion must abide by strict regulations.

Kuwait has about a dozen churches which all freely mark Christmas especial-

Max 21º Min 11º High Tide 09:24 & 20:29 Low Tide 03:05 & 13:36

ly in the main church complex in the heart of the capital Kuwait City. There are some 200 Christians - mainly of Iraqi or Palestinian origin - among the 1.2 million native population of Kuwait. But the state is home to 642,000 foreign Christians, or 17 percent of Kuwait’s population of 3.8 million, mostly from India, the Philippines, Egypt, Lebanon and the West.

Continued on Page 2

Protests over sex attacks rock India

By Badrya Darwish

badrya_d@kuwaittimes.net

W

hat a long and boring Arab Spring! I wish it was a spring. I do not mind spring to last forever and ever. My point is not related to the season of spring at all. I wonder why it was given such a wonderful name for a season. Have you seen tranquility or peace in any of the countries in the region?

Let’s start with Tunisia. It is not that Zine El Abidine Ben Ali left or his extravagant wife Laila Tarabusi left. The woman left behind a collection of very expensive jewellery. It was all shown last night on TV. I was amazed. Maybe in the rush she didn’t have time to wrap it and take it with her.

Don’t worry about her. I do not worry about people like her. People with a lot of money are accepted everywhere, even if their presence is incognito.

Move on to Egypt. Just look at the ongoing daily demonstrations, the opposition and everyone accusing the other of corruption. The opposition is not accepting even the referendum for the constitution. Things on Tahrir Square are like the time when the people rose against Mubarak.

Yemen is not in a better position. Jordan had its share of Arab Spring turmoil. The worst, in all honesty, is what is going on in Syria. What’s happening in Syria is beyond logic and belief. It is inhuman. Whichever way the conflict ends whether Assad is removed or not and whether the opposition takes over, Syria will remain in turmoil. Even opposition members are now regretting when they see what is going on in Syria.

What is going on in Syria looks like someone wanted to ruin the country. It doesn’t seem like anyone wanted to liberate it from a tyrant.

Look how many refugees have left the country and now live in tents in Jordan and Turkey and are facing miserable situations. There are explosives everywhere, trucks with food and medication are bombed daily. Who are the opposition in Syria? According to some the opposition is a varied group from Tunisia, Afghanistan et al. Do you believe that what is happening in Syria was an uprising against a dictator? Even when Assad falls down, Syria will remain in turmoil. Their state will affect its neighbours - Lebanon and Jordan.

Thanks to the masterminds of the Arab Spring, they started demolishing and they think they are building. But nobody has thought even of rebuilding.

NEW DELHI: Protesters destroy an Indian government vehicle as a traffic cone flies during a violent demonstration near the India Gate monument yesterday against the gang rape and brutal beating of a 23-year-old student on a bus last week. — AP NEW DELHI: Police shot dead a journalist yesterday during a protest over a sex assault on an actress in northeast India as security forces in New Delhi fired tear gas at new demonstrations over a student’s gang-rape. After the victim of last Sunday’s gang-rape in Delhi began recounting her ordeal to police, a wave of

revulsion over sex crimes spread to the remote state of Manipur where a protest was held over the attempted rape of the actress. A police spokesman told AFP that the 36-year-old cameraman, who was working for the national Doordarshan network, was “killed in police firing” while covering a protest that turned violent in

Egyptians approve new constitution

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the town of Imphal.

Police have yet to arrest anyone over the Dec 18 assault on the 22-year-old actress and model known as Momoko, who has waived her right to anonymity and who has appeared on television to demand justice. Momoko has said that a local militant dragged her away during a

concert last week and then tried to rape her before she managed to fight him off and flee. “We want a strong message to be sent that perpetrators of such crimes have no place in our society,” said Bala Bedi, a woman rights activists in Imphal who took part in Sunday’s protest.

Continued on Page 13

Tendulkar announces retirement from ODIs

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Jordanian PM lauds Kuwait’s democracy AMMAN: Kuwait democracy has long been an example and the free atmosphere in the Gulf country has long attracted and encouraged budding Arab democratic practices and nurtured media capabilities, Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Nsour said on Saturday. The official was speaking at a banquet on the sidelines of a visit by a Kuwaiti delegation which includes a host of media and press representatives. The delegation is en route to the occupied Palestinian Territories where they were expected yesterday.

Nsour was hosted at the residence of the Kuwaiti Ambassador Dr Hamad Al-Duaij along with Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Minister of State for Information and Culture Samih AlMaaytah and of Minister of Industry and Trade

Hatem Al-Halawani. Nsour also praised Kuwaiti support to Jordan in particular. He pointed out the major challenge of the constant influx of refugees over decades, most recently the pouring in of 275,000 Syrians which cost $700 million in care and services, and said this is a great strain on the country’s budget.

Jordan is most appreciative of the Gulf Cooperation Council’s decision to pump $5 billion into development projects in the country over the course of five years. The sum is divided into annual installments of $250 million by Kuwait, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar each, he said.

Duaij said such meetings are opportunities to coordinate stances and exchange views on Continued on Page 2

AMMAN: Jordanian Prime Minister Abdullah Nsour meets a delegation of Kuwaiti journalists on Saturday. Also present were Kuwaiti Ambassador Dr Hamad Al-Duaij, Jordanian Foreign Minister Nasser Judeh, Minister of State for Information and Culture Samih Al-Maaytah and Minister of Industry and Trade Hatem Al-Halawani. Kuwait Times Deputy Editor-in-Chief Saleh Al-Alyan is seen at right. — KUNA

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LOCAL

Gulf leaders meet amid growing challenges 33rd GCC summit opens in Manama today

MANAMA: Bahraini Foreign Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa addresses the opening of the GCC Ministerial Council’s 125th complementary meeting in Manama yesterday. —KUNA

MANAMA: The 33rd session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) will open in Bahrain today amid serious challenges in the Arab World, prompting the Gulf states to discuss the possible repercussions on the proposed GCC union.

The summit will discuss the key challenges in the Arab region, several raging issues leading with the Gulf’s achievements in the fields of politics, security, economy, culture, and boosting joint GCC initiative towards further cooperation and integration.

Meanwhile, Bahraini Foreign Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Ahmed Al-Khalifa stressed yesterday on the GCC’s keenness to fulfill the Gulf citizens’ needs, and combine efforts towards coordination and cooperation to achieve, “the true goal of a secure and stable life for GCC citizens”.

Sheikh Khalid said in a speech during the opening of the GCC Ministerial Council’s 125th complementary meeting here yesterday that GCC leaders seek boosting the council’s work in the fields of politics, economy, defense, security and culture.

He added that this ministerial meeting represents an important milestone in the GCC joint work, reflecting the aspirations and hopes of the GCC leaders of additional cooperation and unity.

Kuwait ’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid AlHamad Al-Sabah arrived here yesterday to participate in the GCC Foreign Ministers’ preparator y meeting for the 33rd GCC

Summit. Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid and his accompanying delegation was received by Bahraini Foreign Minister and the GCC Secretary General, Abdullatif Al-Zayani, Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain Sheikh Azzam Mbarak Al-Sabah, Bahrain’s Ambassador to Kuwait Sheikh Khalifa Bin Hamad Al-Khalifa and Kuwaiti Ambassy Advisor Dr Jehad Al-Hai. His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah AlAhmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, accompanied by a delegation of senior officials, is due to travel to the Kingdom of Bahrain today. HH the Amir will head the Kuwaiti delegation taking part in summit.

Leaders of Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Bahrain will discuss a wide range of issues, during open and closed door sessions, addressing political issues in the region and world, and the Syrian crisis in particular.

The summit agenda includes several files of political, economic, and security issues, in particular those relating to GCC’s internal affairs and the most important to establish the Gulf Monetary Union.

The summit will also discuss regional issues, placing the spotlight on the Syrian crisis and ways to save the Syrian people, in addition to supporting the Syrian opposition, emphasizing on the importance of maintaining the Syrian unity, its security and stability.

In addition to the situation in Gaza after the Israeli aggression, and achieving PalestinianPalestinian reconciliation especially after

MANAMA: Kuwait Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Hamad Al-Sabah arriving in Manama yesterday to attend the GCC summit. — KUNA

claiming the “observer” stance in the General Assembly of the United Nations.

On the agenda, the situations in Yemen, Iraq, Egypt and ways of suppor ting the Egyptian economy after the January 25 revolution. The summit will confirm the need to make the region free of weapons of mass destruction, through pressing this issue during international forums on both Iran and Israel in order to adhere to international standards and requirements set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Sheikh Khaled welcomed the Yemeni Foreign Minister, Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi, who took part in the meeting, stressing the keenness of the GCC on Yemen’s political stability and security within the framework of brotherhood between the GCC countries and Yemen.

Sheikh Khaled said that the Gulf Cooperation Council sought by the Yemeni initiative to resolve the crisis last year to achieve security through a political settlement for the transfer of power in accordance with the Gulf initiative.

For his part, Yemeni Foreign Minister Abu Bakr Al-Qirbi said that the Gulf initiative to resolve the political crisis in Yemen curbed a possible civil war, opening the door towards a new future.

He added, the Gulf initiative “reunited relations between Yemen and the GCC countries.”

A new era of relations between the two sides to promote the common interests and goodwill of the GCC leaders to stand with Yemen, and implement the Gulf initiative.—KUNA

Kuwait diplomat lists GCC achievements MANAMA: The joint GCC action made possible many significant economic achievements in the last 30 years, including the establishment of the customs union, the common market and freedom to work, travel and practice investmentrelated activities, a senior Kuwaiti diplomat said here.

“GCC member states are keen to meet aspirations of its citizens through more achievements and joint projects,” Sheikh Ali Al-Khalid Al-Sabah, director of the economic affairs’ department at the foreign ministry told KUNA. His remarks came after GCC (Gulf

Cooperation Council) senior foreign ministry officials concluded their meeting last night in preparation for today’s foreign ministers’ meeting. Sheikh Ali AlKhalid hoped for economic integration among GCC states to reach advanced levels, pointing out that the Manama Summit is acquiring significance due to issues topping its agenda. On their meeting, Sheikh Ali said it reviewed the draft final communique and most important recommendations, including strategic dialogues with economic blocs, in order to forward them to the ministerial meeting. —KUNA

Al-Anjari participates in Gulf Businesswomen Forum KUWAIT: General Manager of the Leaders Group for Consulting and Development, Nabila Al-Anjari, took part in the first Gulf Businesswomen Forum which took place in Muscat, Oman recently. She was one of the main speakers during the first session that discussed ‘ways to create promising generations in leadership’.

Al-Anjari started her address by defining leadership and explaining the difference between the leader’s position and leading by outstanding approach.

Moreover, Al-Anjari talked about the aspects which contribute to improve leadership skills within people since a young age, starting from education and

family upbringing.

Al-Anjari also expressed optimism regarding the increasing number of regional events supporting leadership in GCC countries, which she said creates “leadership boom” in the need future that requires suitable environment to contain and utilize it.

Organized by the Oman’s Chamber of Commerce in cooperation with the Federation of GCC Chambers (FGCCC), the forum focused on improving opportunities for young generations as a mechanism towards achieving sustainable economy, as well as reinforcing the economic role of women in Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

KUWAIT: Kuwait witnessed unusual thunder showers in the last few days with the advent of winter this year with meteorologists predicting more rains in the coming days. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Kuwait faces rainy weather KUWAIT: Kuwait is expecting rainy weather and significant drop in temperature in the upcoming few days as part of what meteorologists described as a “rainy and cold” winter, an Al-Qabas report said yesterday.

The weather experts said the heavy rains over the weekend were caused by a depression coming from the northeastern side of

the Mediterranean Sea, which may also cause temperature to drop soon. A total of 13 millimeters of average rain was recorded at the Kuwait International Airpor t last Friday.

While streets were flooded at several places around the country this weekend, a senior Ministr y of Public Works official

assured that the recent heavy rains “put no pressure on the drainage network.”

“The ministry’s maintenance department is fully geared to deal with the rainy season and will handle any complications caused by catchments or flooding,” undersecretary assistant for the maintenance department’s affairs, Fadhel Al-Ajmi said . —Al-Qabas, Al-Rai

Liberals blast calls to ban Xmas celebrations Continued from Page 1 Meanwhile, local private Al-Youm satellite channel yesterday filed a lawsuit against a government decision to withdraw the license of the channel two days ago citing administrative irregularities. The channel’s lawyers demanded reversing the ministry decision because it was not in line with the press and publications and the audio-visual laws. The administrative court set Wednesday for the next hearing on the issue. The ministry on Thursday informed the opposition-linked station it had decided to withdraw its license with immediate effect over administrative violations and the channel went off the air immediately.

The channel later said the ministry made the move allegedly because the channel failed to appoint a full-time Kuwaiti general manager as required under the law. The channel explained that it had submitted documents of the general manager to the ministry which demanded that a fresh copy of the university degree, obtained in late 1980s, must be submitted. The process took longer than the twomonth deadline given by the ministry, which was informed of the delay and agreed to wait until it made the surprising decision.

Defense lawyers are demanding that the court orders the ministry to allow the station

to resume broadcasting immediately until it has looked into the case which may take several weeks. Al-Youm has been seen as sympathetic to the opposition, carrying interviews with leading opposition figures and widely covering opposition protests.

In another business, newly-elected MPs took up the issue of bedoons, or stateless Arabs, yesterday as a bedoon man was stranded on the border between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia for several days because his passport had expired. MP Khaled Al-Shulaimi said yesterday that the man Mishaal Ayesh was allowed to enter Kuwait and was immediately taken to the Criminal Investigation Department to investigate his case. Ayesh was given a one-time travel document to go to Saudi Arabia by land and returned four days ago but was stopped at Al-Salmi border point because the validity of the travel document had expired.

Shiite MP Hussein Al-Qallaf sent a question to Prime Minister HH Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah inquiring about the government’s plan to resolve the issue of bedoons and the duration of the plan, and inquired why the problem of bedoons has become more complicated. The National Assembly’s interior and defense committee said it will start discussing the problem of bedoons soon with concerned officials in a bid to reach a solution.

The committee will review proposals submitted by former and current MPs on the issue and has asked for latest government figures on bedoons before it embarks on a solution.

The government had said that there are around 106,000 bedoons living in Kuwait, of whom only 34,000 qualify for consideration for Kuwaiti citizenship while the rest belong to other countries and has asked them to produce their original identity so to be given proper residence permits in Kuwait.

The foreign relations committee meanwhile began discussing a large number of treaties Kuwait signed with foreign countries, head of the committee MP Saleh Ashour said. He added that the committee has demanded that the Assembly hold a special session to discuss and ratify those treaties. Head of the Budgets Committee MP Adnan Abdulsamad said yesterday that the committee will reject the decree approving the state budget if it finds that certain financial items which had been rejected in the past were included in the budget. The government had passed the budget in an Amiri decree soon after dissolving the Assembly in October. This decree must be approved by the Assembly to become a proper law. Abdulsamad also said that the budget includes certain violations that are worthy of becoming grillings for ministers. He did not elaborate.

MUSCAT: Nabila Al-Anjari is honored during the event in Muscat.

MoCI urges verifying laws before buying real estate KUWAIT: Assistant Undersecretary of the Kuwaiti Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) for Foreign Trade Affairs Sheikh Nimr AlSabah yesterday called on nationals planning to buy real estate in foreign countries to review the concerned laws of such countries beforehand in order to avoid any problems in the future. “The ministry has developed a range of regulations and controls for foreign real estate companies, which seek to attract Kuwait customers to overseas residential units, with a view to verifying their credibility and seriousness,” Sheikh Nimr said.

He made the remarks after inaugurating the

Real Estate, Finance and Investment Exhibition at Hilton Kuwait Resort in Mangaf. “The new regulations helped minimize the legal problems and commercial fraud resulting from the practices of some illegal unregistered companies or fake real estate projects,” the official added.

Meanwhile, CEO of ISKAN Finance Housing Co Mahmoud Afifi said the local real estate market is growing thanks to the strong growth in demand in the residential sector, followed by the investment and hotel apartment sectors.

“Kuwaitis are still in the lead of Gulf and Arab investors in real estate,” Afifi said, citing various recent market reports. — KUNA

Jordanian PM lauds Kuwait’s...

Continued from Page 1 both the public and official level.

Manager of Kuwait Journalists Association Adnan Al-Rahsed told KUNA the meeting was conducted with transparency and covered a wide range of issues. Editor in Chief of An-Nahar paper Emad Bu Khamseen said the delegation’s next step lands them in Palestine, where they will express support of the Palestinians’ legitimate rights and seek a closer look onto their state of affairs and needs at present.

Writer with Al-Rai daily Fawziyah AlSabah said the meeting was constructive.

The delegation now looks forward to

delivering a message of solidarity with the Palestinians and support their struggle for freedom. The delegation is to tour territories under the control of the Palestinian Authority.

Members of the Kuwaiti delegation are Kuwait Journalists Association (K JA) Chairman Ahmad Behbehani, KJA manager Adnan Al-Rashed, An-Nahar Editor in Chief Emad Bu Khamseen, Kuwait Times Deputy Editor in Chief Saleh Al-Alyan, AlRai journalist Fawziyah Al-Sabah, Dana Magazine Editor in Chief Rabaa Al-Jemaa, Yaqazah Magazine Deputy Editor in Chief Dalia Behbehani and Mohammad AlMansour. — KUNA

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LOCAL Consultations advance to win nod for one vote system New companies law being scrutinized

KUWAIT: His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah received yesterday at Seif Palace His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. HH the Amir also received Speaker of the National Assembly Ali Al-Rashed, HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and the First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Humoud Al-Jaber AlSabah (left). — KUNA

Forum calls for joint action to combat drug menace NDAC opens two-day conference

KUWAIT: A group photo of the participants with Dr Ahmad Al-Samdan and Dr Rasheed Al-Amiri. — Photos by Joseph Shagra

Istiqlal Al-Azmi from the Kuwait Journalist Association being awarded by the organizers.

By Nawara Fattahova KUWAIT: In its continuing fight against the menace of drugs, the National Anti Drug Committee (NADC) is holding its first forum titled ‘Drugs Prevention, Achievements and Challenges’ from December 23-24, 2012 at the Kuwait Regency Hotel.

Seventeen different institutions including ministries, NGOs and societies, including the Ministry of Interior with its six sectors, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Health, Kuwait Journalists’ Association, Bashayir Al Khair Society, and others are participating in this forum.

Held under the auspices of the Minister of Interior and First Deputy Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmad AlHomoud Al-Sabah, the forum was addressed yesterday by Dr. Rasheed AlAmiri on behalf of the Minister. He said the forum during its two days’ of deliberations is reviewing the joint private and public sector efforts in fighting and preventing drugs in Kuwait.

Underlining that the drugs present a great danger to our society, he said, “Everyone should collaborate to fight drug consumption and fight its dealers in all possible ways. The security and customs inspection and control should be increased. Also the awareness and inspection campaigns in schools and gathering centers should be increased.”

He also said that this forum was a great opportunity to exchange experi-

Some of the participants during the launch yesterday.

ences, information, and plan ways of dealing with this negative phenomenon to achieve better results.

“It is known that drug addiction has many sides and factors, and that the security interference alone is not enough to eliminate it, although it is important.

We need the cooperation of the whole society, in addition to regional and international support,” explained Al-Amiri.

The Secretary General of the National Anti Drugs Committee, and Head of the Supervising Committee, Ahmad AlSamdan stressed the importance of the forum. “We are holding this forum to protect future generations from the drugs epidemic that has spread across all communities. As for the importance of this issue, the law no. 133/1989 was issued to found the NADC, which started working in 1997. To fight drugs and prevent their proliferation, we have to work on three pillars: prevention, security, and treatment,” he pointed out.

NADC is responsible for prevention aspect. “This reflects the importance of this forum. We discuss the problem and ways of dealing with it with all the institutions in charge to exchange experiences and opinions. This will lead to achieving our goals and expectations.

Drugs are killing our youth who are the future of the nation,” he further said.

Developing ways to prevent is also important. “For this purpose, we have established in cooperation with other public and private institutions the

National Anti Drug Media Project ‘Ghiras’, which succeeded in bringing about awareness about drugs in a revolutionary way. Experts from the field have praised the campaigns of Ghiras and considered it a successful anti-drugs model,” stated Al-Samdan.

The Ministry of Interior is responsible for security. “Drug related crimes are threatening the national security, and are responsible for spreading all kinds of criminality which affects the community and families. The Ministry of Health is responsible for the treatment pillar through the Addiction Center at the Psychiatric Hospital, which is taking care of the drug addicts to rehabilitate them back to society,” he noted.

“We still have long way to go. Fighting against drugs is not a seasonal job that can end with a celebration. It is a daily organized work that we have to continue, and we have no other choice but to diligently keep pushing the line. Each time a victim dies from drugs, I feel we have lost an integral part of the society.

We should move to protect other victims who are the target of the drug dealers,” concluded Al-Samdan.

Later, the participants were awarded

by NADC. The activities spread over the two days include four sessions, each focusing on a different angle, including the different roles to be played by the participating institutions such as prosecution, customs department, investigations, education and health, and others.

PwC forced to pay 20 euros to KIA-owned Grupo Torras KUWAIT: International auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) will have to pay up to EUR 20 million in damages to the Kuwait Investment Office-owned, now defunct company, Grupo Torras according to a Spanish court ruling, Kuwait’s legal watchdog said yesterday.

The case, part of several, involve

the disappearance of EUR three billion of KIO investments in Spain through the mismanagement of the state investment body’s Spanish holding company, Grupo Torras.

A team of Kuwaiti lawyers succeeded in acquiring the court ruling,

by Spain’s Supreme Cour t of Judicature, which accused PwC of an

error in judgment and failing to carry out their professional obligations, deputy chief of Kuwait’s Fatwa and Legislation Department, Salah AlMasaad told KUNA. The recent amount adds to a total sum received so far of around EUR 493 million (USD 650 million) from the issue’s various cases. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Consultations are on to pass the necessary decree of one man one vote on Tuesday in Parliament if Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Defense committees are able to finalize their reports. A proposed amended law for elections, based on government’s proposal or NA council’s suggestions, may also be presented to the House before the constitutional cour t gives judgment in the case involving a challenge to the decree.

Legal sources explained that this could happen and pointed out that any rejection of the decree will lead to a legislative vacuum and will create legal complications, which neither the government nor the council needs.

Meanwhile, sources revealed that Central Bank Governor, Dr Mohammed Al-Hashed and Minister of Commerce and Industry Anas AlSaleh met last week to discuss several important economic issues, including the crucial new companies law. They discussed the implications of apply-

ing it to the companies which are under the Central Bank’s watch.

The meeting also discussed the bankruptcy law in the light of observations made by the World Bank. The law has been drafted on the request of Ministry of Finance and Ministry of Commerce to ensure that it meets international standards concerning companies which have financial problems, and are about to declare bankruptcy. It is hard to deal with such situations except through specific laws.

Sources said that there were several local companies which, too, need such a law to deal with problems that they face currently.

I n the meantime, M inister of Commerce and I ndustr y, Anas Al Saleh, is making focused efforts to finalize the memorandum for bankruptcy law so that it could be presented to the Council of M inisters in January. Sources said that the new law deals with several defects, especially regarding companies which lost 75 percent of their capital.

Kuwait ‘not clear’ about holding elections: Expert KUWAIT: Constitutional expert Dr Mohammad Al-Faili said Kuwait did not move clearly in the matter of conducting elections unlike the rest of the world which follows one of the two systems - either voters vote for one seat or follow a multi-seat system.

He said the real problem is that “We run away from the true requirements of political life” and this leads to Kuwaitis ending up with a scattered assembly.

He said the majority in Kuwait is tied to events, which means a majority comes around to discuss a certain issue and agrees on it, while it has differences over other issues at the same time. Thus, it is an event-specific majority. During an interview, he said the judiciar y, and par ticularly the constitutional judiciar y, rules on whether a case was in agreement with the constitution or not. He said a political group claimed that there was a coup d’etat against the consti-

tution, but it may not succeed because it rejec ted the idea of approaching a neutral entity in the constitutional process. It issued statements about certain actions being unconstitutional but refused to let its claims to be put through judicial scrutiny.

Al-Faili said the tribe in Kuwait has become a political entity that takes a decision to boycott elections, and its chief decides that he is not responsible for candidates. He said the opposition uses the tribes and encourages them as an effective component in the political process.

Al-Faili warned against the protests becoming violent, especially those being held by the youth who feel emptiness deep inside. These youth are being made to believe that are champions. He said the move was dangerous since it was not possible to control them easily or stop them after having unleashed their youthful energies in that direction.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LOCAL kuwait digest

kuwait digest

Possible scenarios: If court cancels NA council

Turning the page?

Not so fast

By Ahmad Al-Sarraf country’s underdevelopment is connected directly to financial corruption found in it.

Historical records throw up no examples of a government that managed to provide prosperity, radical infrastructure reforms, and solutions to economic and social problems while at the same time comprising members involved in cases of financial corruption. It is no coincidence that the most developed countries enjoy the best transparency levels in the world.

Corruption kills emotions, corrupts the soul and poisons the atmosphere. To mention an example, let us take a look at a man who started his career doing simple jobs and eventually led South America’s largest country to prosperity. During his eight years’ tenure as President of Brazil, Lula da Silva was never connected to a single suspicion of financial corruption despite the extremely difficult circumstances he lived through throughout his life.

He took over as president while Brazil was on the verge of bankruptcy, but managed within eight years not only to pay off the country’s debts, but also achieve surpluses equal to Kuwait’s. His efforts are credited for estimations predicting Brazil to become the world’s fifth largest economy in the near future.

Lula’s story is not very much different than that of former South African President Nelson Mandela, who led his country to become a global economic force with his righteous approach. Similar examples of righteousness can be found in many other countries, but they stop once we reach home where we find political and financial corruption killing every chance of development.

I had planned to write a column calling for opening a new page and regarding the government’s past misdoings as water that has passed under the bridge. I changed my mind after hearing a recorded phone conversation that supposedly took place between former minister and MP Shuwaib Al-Muwaizri and columnist Mohammad Al-Wushaihi last October. During the call, AlMuwaizri explained that the government spends an average of KD24 million per kilometer on the Jahra Road project, and similar rates on the AbdulNasser Road and Jaber Causeway projects. He added that the airport’s expansion project is expected to reach KD3 billion, while the Shaddadiya University project is set to reach KD2 billion after starting with only KD350 million.

Moreover, Al-Muwaizri indicated that the cost of establishing the Jaber Hospital increased from KD140 million to KD330 million (not counting KD200 million for equipment costs), and it is not expected to finish before eleven years.

Al-Muwaizri goes on to indicate that the cabinet signed consultation contracts during the parliament’s absence worth a total of KD3 billion, including a KD524 million contract for a study on use of environment-friendly fuel. This is not mentioning a KD900 million contract signed with Shell, and a KD1 billion contract with the British government for security consultations.

The Public Institute for Social Security lost KD3 billion in five years without being held accountable, Al-Muwaizri adds. He also mentioned $450 billion in foreign assets that no one knows how they are managed, or the nature of gains or losses resulting from their investment, adding that he never knew anything about these funds during both his tenures as a lawmaker and housing minister.

These facts, if correct, are very perturbing.

Perhaps there are many people who already know about them, but refuse to deny or respond to them. The fact that they are mentioned by a former MP and minister gives them more credibility in my opinion, otherwise Al-Muwaizri needs to be held accountable if the remarks recorded by a licensed TV channel in Kuwait were proven to be false or exaggerated. Are we going to hear any clarifications in the future? — Al-Qabas

A

By Thaar Al-Rashidi he constitutional court is looking into 46 contests in the recent elections, each one of which could lead to the cancellation of the current council. It could happen between the month of March and May next year.

But what are the possible scenarios in case the constitutional court cancels the current council?

What will happen, theoretically, is as follows: The decree about amending the election law will be presented before the current National Assembly council in the shortest available period. Voting will take place and it will pass with a huge majority. Once this happens, as expected, it will be published in the official paper as it will then have become a law rather than a decree during the period between the approval of NA Council of the decree and the issuance of the constitutional court verdict on any one of the contests. This period might stretch over three to four months. The council will continue its work by approving the largest possible number of laws, most of which will be coming from government or at the instructions of the government.

Once the constitutional court gives its verdict that the council is void, the five constituency law with one vote would have become law of the land, based on which the next elections will be held.

The call for such a new election will be within two months after the declaration of the council becoming void. No one would be legally able to contest that election law, which was issued by a necessity decree and became a law after NA Council’s approval.

Regardless of the reasons cited by the constitutional court in its decision which could render the council void, the five constituencies with one vote will become a real legality and all are supposed to live with it and accept it.

For the sake of argument, let us assume that constitutional court cites the reasons for the cancellation of the current council saying it was based on an amendment through a necessity decree which was necessary. This does not mean that the law passed by December 2012 council, if cancelled, will be void or should be amended. It will very much remain a legal reality. So, after all these legal games, we will end up with a one voter-one vote situation as a reality.

Of course, I am only assuming, and speaking theoretically about the possibility of an expected scenario.

The other question is how the opposition will deal with such a reality, since it cannot be avoided, either legally or constitutionally, after the one voter- one vote becomes the only choice. In my belief and far from the political differences, opposition has to accept the reality. It has to deal with it and enter the democratic, constitutional and legal channels which it violated for sometime. At times, its stance was logical, at others not so logical.

NOTE 1: This council will remain and will not be dissolved, and will be the 2nd council to be announced void in the history of Kuwait and in my opinion the authority only wants this council to approve the one voter-one vote law. After that, it may have served its purpose.

NOTE 2: The current political equation now will totally change after the council is announced void, and the opposition will have to move carefully. If the current council approved the election law of one-voter-one vote, the opposition will have no papers in its hands. —Al-Anbaa

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kuwait digest

A model in voluntary work

By Iqbal Al-Ahmad ocieties are often distinguished by how much individuals living there are willing to engage in voluntary work. This distinctive feature directly underlines a society’s sophisticated status as compared to communities where voluntary work is not considered an important part of people’s lives. Kuwait is sadly an example of the latter characteristic and as a result, its people lack inner happiness.

In advanced countries, students study voluntary work as part of their main course and are required to pass it in order to graduate. On the other hand, we find that this topic is completely absent from public schools in Kuwait, and even in some private schools. This is not surprising when we consider the notion that those who determine this issue do not believe in the importance of voluntary work. In their opinion, allocating an extra class on a subject that mainly requires memorizing written material only is more beneficial than students spending an hour each week doing voluntary work such as helping people in need, planting trees, cleaning beaches, etc.

But one non-government organization (NGO) is an exceptional ray of hope in such a heart-breaking scenario. Its members continue to fight to spread their message about helping the community and providing a productive platform to young men and women where they can spend their free time.

LOYAC started ten years ago as a simple idea to provide a program that enables teenagers aged 16 years to busy themselves during their free time in the summer break while at the same time utilizes their capabilities in various activities that further train them for voluntary work. The idea was met with mixed reactions at first, mostly because it was still strange and unacceptable to many Kuwaiti youngsters and their families alike.

Students went on to wash dishes and take orders at restaurants and cafes, as well as work on cleaning and other tasks in hotels. They also volunteered to work for senior citizens and cancer patients’ care.

They volunteered to work in car garages and do manual labor which was promoted by the people behind the idea as the kind of work that sets youngsters on the right track at the beginning of their careers, and to fight the stigma of desk jobs being the only suitable place for Kuwaitis.

The LOYAC organization made a name for itself as a self-made organization that received no governmental support, but became successful through support of

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people who believed in its cause. The result was a fine group of young men and women who believe in their message, add something positive to their society and contribute to its development. Young people in Kuwait suffer from a lack of helpful activities in school or outside study hours. Therefore, we find many of them wandering aimlessly in the streets, driving without any purpose from one street to another and riding their motorcycles just to show off.

The story would have been different however if these people had found a place that embraces them.

Young people wait in line to play football outside rentby-hour playgrounds. They are also found driving or walking by the beach, hanging around malls in an ostentatious manner or blasting loud music out of their vehicles which they drive round and round in circles.

I am not trying to criticize young people, but only want to point out the situation they find themselves in due to years of lack of attention. Without sports, cultural, musical or any other social activities, which can help them spend their time in an interesting manner, they have no other place to go to but the street.

Despite international recognition, awards, and branches in other Arab countries, the LOYAC organization still does not have a permanent headquarters to this day and remained housed in a building donated by someone who believed in the organization’s cause. I watched a brief documentary about an activity carried out by LOYAK volunteers at an Arab country, in which they helped renovate a house of a poor family which lacked basic requirements for decent human life. In one scene, the teary-eyed mother said with a smile on her face, “What else can a family ask for?”

Do you know what she was so grateful about? It was only one room renovated with simple material by volunteers from Kuwait and from the country where the documentary was shot. They put new beds for the mother and her two children, and changed the sanitary appliances in the small bathroom. Just this much, with a wall painting, was enough for the mother to say that she no longer needed anything else.

This kind of voluntary work is what builds future generations. This kind of life is what makes a Kuwaiti a human being, not by having their electricity bills and bank loans written off, and building up a sense of dependency within them. Hopefully, someone in the parliament’s educational committee - whose members were elected by default - would get the message. — Al-Qabas

kuwait digest

Wrong priorities

By Mubarak Al-Maosharji fter reading the first few statements made by the new parliament members, I would like to send them this message.

Dear MPs, The 39.7 percent of Kuwaiti citizens who voted for you did not elect you to waste public funds on salary increases and allowances, writing off consumer loans, or raising the cap for social and housing loans. They also did not elect you to open old wounds and dig in search for mistakes committed by former lawmakers, or establish investigation committees that waste the parliament’s time and effort instead of focusing on what serves the common good.

Kuwaitis who defied the opposition and their boycotting calls on their way to ballot boxes on December 1st did not do that so that you come afterwards and leave the naturalization door wide open, so that the right of a person who meets conditions for citizenship becomes equalized with that of some opportunists and those with connection to people in positions of authority.

The early performance of some MPs indicates that their priorities are focused on improving their popularity among voters, even if it comes at the expense of public funds and the state’s demographic structure and political stability. I urge those MPs to start first with finding ways to eliminate the existing political tension and divisions in the Kuwaiti society, which can be done by proving their honest intention for reform. This is what Kuwaitis voted them for. Stop the enormous wastage of public funds, and shift your attention to strict monitoring and application of State Audit Bureau recommendations. These issues, combined with pushing reform and development, need to be given priority ahead of reopening old files.

As for naturalization, this job is already being handled by a committee formed under parliamentarygovernmental agreement and headed by a man who earned the trust of both authorities. I do hope though that the committee speeds up the procedures to naturalize stateless residents who meet the required conditions as soon as possible.

If you are able to achieve that, this will help you earn people’s trust and silence the critics who doubted your ability to achieve what none of the previous parliaments have been able to achieve. Furthermore, you will prove to your voters that they did the right thing by voting for you, otherwise they will move to join the opposition’s side. —Al-Rai

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LOCAL

News

in brief

MEW in deal for gas turbine maintenance KUWAIT: The Minister of Electricity and Water and the Minister of Public Works, Abdulaziz Al-Ibrahim, yesterday signed a KD 62 million ($220 million) contract for maintenance work of the new gas turbine in the southern AlZour power and water distillation plant. The Ministry said in a press statement that the contract would cover maintenance work of the gas turbine units and supply of spare parts and consumables. It added that the implementation of the contract would achieve high-per formance flexibility for secure and stable operation of the units.

Audit Bureau chief greets speaker KUWAIT: National Assembly Speaker Ali AlRashed received congratulations from President of State Audit Bureau, Abdulaziz Youssef Al-Adsani, for having been elected as Speaker. Al-Adsani wished Speaker Al-Rashed success in his new post.

Iran embassy note to attorney Al-Yahya KUWAIT: Iran’s Embassy in Kuwait handed Attorney Adel Al-Yahya a note asking him to attend a revolutionar y cour t session in Abadan City on February 23rd, 2013 to face espionage charges against the state of Kuwait by filming military areas in Iran. Attorney AlYahya was arrested and detained for a long period in Iran after being accused of espionage, although he had obtained permission from Iranian authorities to film parts of his show on Al-Adala channel. He was released on bail. An official from the Iranian Embassy delivered the note to Al-Yahya.

KUWAIT: Kuwaiti artist Dr Yousef Al-Mulaifi held an art exhibition at Ahmad Al-Adwani Gallery in Abdullah Al-Salem area last week. It was patronized by Sheikha Fraiha AlAhmad Al-Sabah and attended by a large number of art lovers. — Photos by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Joint committee to study single-vote system likely Dr Maasouma urges panel on women and family affairs KUWAIT: The parliament’s legislative committee plans to request for setting up of a joint committee including members from the interior and defense committees to discuss the emergenc y decree which enforced the single-vote system prior to the last elections.

The announcement came from the committee’s president, MP Dr Maasouma Al-Mubarak, who also declared her intention to propose a joint request with other lawmakers to form a committee for women and family affairs.

The parliament is expected to vote on a number of temporary panels tomorrow, having elected members for permanent committees last week. In this regard, Al-Qabas newspaper reported yesterday quoting parliament insiders that lawmakers have so far made multiple proposals for temporary committees “despite realizing the government’s rejection” to the idea in general.

Meanwhile, the same sources, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, indicated that MPs plan to deal with the government’s rejection by coordinating in such a way as to ensure majority votes to pass requests for committees with apparently high importance.

“In order to avoid losing supporters who might find themselves forced to do what they believe would maintain their image in front of voters, the government has little choice but to at least allow some committees to be formed,” they added.

(Qabas) The cabinet in the meantime will discuss its work program during its week ly meeting today (Monday), with sources quoted by Al-Rai newspaper yesterday indicating that “social, educational, health and housing issues” are set to be discussed as potential aspects of the program. The sources who wished to remain anonymous also indicated that “thirteen issues on priority will be discussed before being sent to the parliament,” as both authorities prepare for talks early next year to reach a common understanding on matters that will receive joint priority in political work.

The issue about asking the government to writeoff citizens’ loans also tops parliamentary discussions this week, particularly as the government plans to reject multiple draft laws proposed in this regard. MP Nawaf Al-Fuzai who is said to be behind one such proposal denied reports about ‘a governmental promise’ to resolve the problem. “Finance Minister Mustafa Al-Shamali is ignoring the main issue of loans,” Al-Fuzai told Al-Rai in statements in which he announced plans to send a number of inquisitions to the minister in this regard.

I n other news, former MP Saleh Al-Mulla announced plans to attend a gathering planned by the opposition at the Iradah Square today against the single-vote system. Commenting on potential security measures aimed at preventing the rally, just as had happened last week, the liberal politician told Al-Rai newspaper that he plans to enter the square located near the parliament’s building “by any means necessary.”

Separately, Al-Rai reported quoting government insiders that the government was “leaning towards” separating the State Security Service from the Interior Ministry, and putting it under the Prime Minister’s dewan in keeping with the protocol followed by the majority of Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The decision would open the door for retired servicemen to assume leading posts “with hope of utilizing their long experience in vital departments such as the State Security Service,” said the sources who preferred not to disclose their identity. — Al-Qabas & Al-Rai

Fiber optics exchanges KUWAIT: An informed source at the communications ministr y said the fiber-optics exchanges are being worked on by the contracting company to complete the fiberoptics network for 11 areas in the first stage of the fiber-optics, adding that the exchanges will be completed before the end of next year.

The source said the ministry was working on a project in cooperation with the Ministry of education to link 28 schools with the fiberoptics network.

Family rows led to attack on businessman in Cairo KUWAIT: A Kuwaiti businessman who was shot in Egypt last weekend is recovering fast at a Cairo hospital even as investigations revealed that a family dispute was the reason behind the attack.

The man with gunshot and stab wounds was brought to the International Medical Center late Friday night in a critical condition. He later explained to the police that his Egyptian wife and her brother attacked him and left him to die in a farm in Giza before he was found and hospitalized, according to sources who spoke to Al-Rai newspaper on the condition of anonymity. Based on the victim’s testimonies, Egyptian authorities are now trying to locate his wife and brother-in-law.

3 stabbed in fight A group of men attacked and injured

three people in Al-Naseem recently after a scuffle over some old disputes. The three Kuwaiti men, who were treated for stab wounds and other injuries, later reported the matter at the Taima police station in Al-Jahra district. They said the young men in the group were carrying knives and they could identify one of them. Detectives launched investigations in search of the suspects.

Abdaly attack A male driver was killed when his vehicle crashed into a steel post in AlAbdaly on Saturday. Police and paramedics rushed to the scene following a report about the accident. The Asian victim was pronounced dead on the spot and the body was taken to the coroner.

Investigations were on to determine the circumstances behind the incident.

Fake inspector A man who posed as a municipality inspector and tried to confiscate and take away counterfeit DVDs from a vendor ended up in a fight with him when his ID was asked for, and later escaped from the scene in Jleeb Al-Shuyiukh. The suspect had approached a Bangladeshi man selling DVDs outdoors, and later ordered that all discs be put in his car as these were counterfeit and would have to be taken to the municipality. When the vendor asked the self-proclaimed inspector to show his ID, a scuffle ensued. Police reached the spot soon after the incident was reported, but the fake inspector had escaped by then.

Nonetheless, police apprehended the vendor for indulging in illegal trade.

Some of his friends who had joined the fight were also apprehended.

Pedestrian mugged Jahra detectives are trying to track down three suspects who mugged a pedestrian in Al-Waha recently. An Indian man told the local police that the suspects first forced him into their car and drove to Saad Al-Abdullah, before taking away his wallet and driving away. A case was filed.

MP catches man under influence A drunken man was arrested in AlMutla after he ended up near a camp where a member of Parliament was spending the weekend with his family. According to a security source, the MP personally handed over the suspect to officers at the Jahra police station after catching him outside his camp. The suspect was in an inebriated state and dancing to loud music.

He remains in custody pending legal procedures. —Al-Rai, Al-Watan

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LOCAL

11 schools awarded IQM under CCET program

KUWAIT: The Centre for Child Evaluation & Teaching (CCET) celebrated the achievements of 11 primary schools of Mubarak Al- Kabeer Educational Authority that were granted ‘Inclusion Quality Mark’ (IQM) awards by the British Inclusion Quality Mark Ltd. The event is a part of the educational inclusion project implemented

by CCET with the collaboration with the Ministry Of Education represent-

ed by Mubarak Al- Kabeer Educational Authority, and backed by the Awqaf General Secretariat.

The event was attended by Faten Al- Badr, director of CCET, members of CCET board and a delegation from the Ministry of Education headed by Talq Al- Heim, director of Mubarak Al- Kabeer Educational Authority as well as Manal Saqr, representative of the Awqaf General Secretariat.

Faten Al- Badr opened the event

expressing her pleasure at the huge achievement of Mubarak AlKabeer’s schools. The celebration was held only a day after the international day of persons with disabilities.

“We should always include all persons with disabilities in all aspects of social life, especially the educational institutions,” Al-Badr said, adding that the educational inclusion project which has been started three

Rift widens over loans write-off Al-Shamali reiterates agenda KUWAIT: Finance Minister Mustafa Al-Shamali reiterated the government’s “reformist intentions” in statements made recently even as reports about five law makers mulling over a grilling motion against him on the loans issue continued to make news.

“The cabinet has a new strategy as per which ministers seek to handle all problems and issues while remaining focused on reforms,” the Deputy Prime Minister told Al-Jarida newspaper on Friday. He called for cooperation between the executive and legislative authorities and asked them to “come up with an ambitious cooperation plan that leaves no space for conflicts and tensions.” Al-Shamali had angered lawmakers last week when he insisted that the cabinet planned to vote

against a draft law asking the government to purchase citizens’ loans in local banks, and then reschedule these after writing off all interests.

After MP Husain Al-Qallaf threatened to file a grilling motion against the minister over allegations of “acting against the common good,” MP Khalid Al-Shulaimi announced last Friday that he was part of the plans along with five other lawmakers to prepare a grilling motion to be filed against Al-Shamali.

Al-Shulaimi added in statements to Al-Jarida that the issue is set to figure before the end of the week in a meeting “featuring lawmakers supporting efforts to write-off citizens loans where they will also discuss the possibility of merging all draft laws proposed in that regard.”

In other news, Al-Qabas quoting

“parliament insiders” reported yesterday that a number of lawmakers were busy discussing the issue about filing a potential grilling motion against First Deputy Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Ahmad Al-Hmoud Al-Sabah. The move was triggered by what they believe was “leniency in tackling unlicensed demonstrations” witnessed in residential areas at nightfall.

MP Abdullah Al-Maayouf spoke to the newspaper on the issue, revealing his plans to meet with the minister today along with other MPs “in order to send our message directly” to Sheikh Ahmad Al-Hmoud, wh o h e h olds was “mainly responsible for the chaos created as a result of the demonstrations.” — Al-Jarida & Al-Qabas

years ago was a result of productive relations between the Ministry of Education, CCET and the Awqaf General Secretariat.

“We celebrate the abilities and efforts of our schools to achieve the objectives of educational inclusion and creating an educational environment which can satisfy all LD students.” Al- Badr encouraged the schools to exert efforts so as to accomplish the utmost targets of

in Washington Sheikh Salem Abdullah AlSabah said the Pentagon’s dropping of charges against Fayez Al-Kandari, a Kuwaiti detainee in Guantanamo, would not trigger his release. Foreign undersecretary AlJarallah called for ceasing the “massacres committed by the Syrian regime against its own people.”

In July, Kuwait condemned inhumane practices against the Muslims in Myanmar, Ban welcomes progress in Kuwait-Iraq relations and Ban commends Kuwait’s role in boosting international peace and security. Kuwait, on September 12, donated USD three million to the global campaign against Malaria. During September, Kuwait won the Arab League e-government shield. Bosnia thanked Kuwait for contributing to the uprooting of mines. A US NATO official said Washington has positive view to establish a NATO center in Kuwait.

In October, Kuwait, during international meetings, condemned the violence in Syria and called for immediate cessation of bloodshed. On November 28, Ban appointed Dr. Abdullah Al-Maatouq of Kuwait as his Envoy for Humanitarian Affairs in Kuwait. Ban visited Kuwait on December 5 and commended the progress of democracy in the Gulf country.

Ban also thanked Kuwait for relentless support for the UN. Kuwait, meanwhile, announced that the problem over Mubarak Al-Kabeer Port with Iraq was addressed, and the two countries began an understanding period. — KUNA

IQM certificate. They should be responsible to keep up the good work underlined with this certificate, and continue their efforts to serve the LD students.

Mr. Russel Toms, the executive director of the British Inclusion Quality Mark Ltd, congratulated all principals of the awarded schools and appreciated their endeavor, hoping for them the best in future.

At the end of the event, eleven primary school principals were celebrated by taking their photographs with Ministry of Education top brass, CCET, the British Inclusion Quality Mark Ltd, and the Awqaf General Secretariat. All parties hoped for more development and progress to include persons with special needs in the mainstream schools. It is worth mentioning that the educational inclusive schools is one of the leading projects in the Gulf region which bore positive results.

CCET is carrying out this project as a part of its philosophy to develop the appropriate educational environment so as to achieve the best results for students, especially LDs.

Kuwait-Oman relations deep, strategic: Minister MUSCAT: Relations between Oman and Kuwait are considered deep and strategic, Omani Minister of Information Abdulmunim bin Mansour bin Said Al-Hasani said here yesterday.

Speaking in an interview with KUNA on the sideline of the Sultanate’s first municipal elections, Al-Hasani said that both nations were willing to further bolster relations on all possible areas and especially within

media. He added that the last meeting among GCC Information Ministers focused on a unified media strategy for the council’s member states noting that media could play an integral part in the development of Gulf countries.

In regards to the Omani Municipal Councils’ election, AlHasani lauded the coverage by media outlets from across the globe, affirming that they indeed have helped in making the elections a success. — KUNA

Omani Minister of Information Abdulmunim bin Mansour bin Said Al-Hasan. — KUNA

Al-Kandari satisfied with retirement KUWAIT: The recently retired undersecretary of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor, Mohammed Al-Kandari, said that Minister Thekra Al-Rasheedi, had made all possible efforts to extend his tenure.

“I have been expecting this (retirement) since I reached the age of sixty as stipulated by law,” he said, noting that he appreciated the

Kuwait maintains active foreign policy initiative KUWAIT: Kuwait has been active in foreign policy throughout the year 2012 where foreign undersecretary Khaled AlJarallah summoned Iranian charge d’affaires on January 3 to protest against Iranian oil official’s statement that Tehran intended to produce oil from the continental shelf unilaterally.

The following day, the foreign ministry reiterated Kuwait’s sovereignty in the marine Durra region thus its right to explore its resources. Kuwait, during this year, received credentials of Ambassadors and appointed its own Ambassadors. The Gulf state also signed several cooperation agreements, including the prevention of double taxation, and tax evasion, as well as exempting holders of diplomatic and special passports from entry visas.

In March, Kuwait called for the coordination of relief efforts for all Syrian people. On March 15, Kuwait closed its embassy in Damascus and told diplomats to leave Syria because of security deterioration.The UN, on March 19, praised Kuwait’s endeavors to solving the issue of illegal residents. Late March saw the UN Secretary General Ban ki-moon’s urging Iraq to fully implement UN resolutions related to the invasion of Kuwait in 1990.

In May, Kuwait’s UN Ambassador Mansour Al-Otaibi said Kuwait and Iraq wished to see the UN live up to its legal responsibilities regarding the maintenance of border signs in line with UN resolution 833. In June, Kuwait’s Ambassador

successful inclusive schools. She hoped to continue development and progress of all Mubarak Al- Kabeer’s schools to win the IQM certificate and to serve all LD students by including them. Al Badr noted that At-Sadeem school for boys is a model of the integrative services for LD students as a part of the project.

A new school, “Jon Al- Kuwait “for girls, will also be established. Ibn Zohair Al -Andalusi intermediate school is now prepared to receive the graduates of the primary school.

On his part Taiq Al- Heim, director of Mubarak Al- Kabeer Educational Authority, expressed his pride at the achievement. “The Ministry of Education encourages such fruitful co-operation to raise the standard of education and to offer all integrated services to our children,” he said.

He appreciated the big role that the CCET played and although it is a limited resource public utility society, yet it has active minds working for the sake of LDs. Talq Al- Heim noted that this was the first step for the schools which were awarded the

trust he enjoyed over the years as well as the minister’s appreciation of his work. Meanwhile, wellinformed ministerial sources said that keeping in view the relatively ‘young cabinet’, the government tends to appoint many younger officials in various positions starting from undersecretaries, assistant undersecretaries, directors, supervi-

sors and managers, which would, accordingly, result in the retirement of many older ones in the same positions.

The sources added that the cabinet issued recommendation to various ministries to induct new blood at senior levels, offering enough incentives for the older ones if they opted to retire. — Al-Watan, Al-Jarida

Sheikh Salman: Youth key partner in development KUWAIT: Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Chairman of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL), Sheikh Salman Sabah AlSalem Al-Sabah underlined the keenness of the political leadership to provide all means of support to the youth, terming them “key partner” in overall development and culture. The minister hailed, during his visit yesterday to the headquarters of the General Secretariat of the NCCAL, the council’s efforts in the dissemination

of culture and arts and its sponsorship of youth’s creative talents in various fields.

He also congratulated the Council for the successful organization of the recently-concluded Kuwait Theater Festival with the participation of promising youth. For his part, the Council’s Secretary General Ali Al-Yoha briefed the minister on the Council’s activities of the Council, in addition to what has been accomplished so far in conjunction with the development plan, in the cultural aspect. — KUNA

Entertainment City offer during New Year season

Two Asian drug pushers arrested KUWAIT: Officials of the Anti-Narcotic Wing arrested two Asian expats for trading in drugs. Acting on information that a drugs racket is operating, the officials made necessary investigations swooped on them. On searching their house and vehicles, they found varied quantities of heroin estimated around 500 grams and other varieties of drugs. They were sent to concerned authorities.

KUWAIT: The Entertainment City announced a special offer to visitors on the occasion of new year by which an entrance ticket can be used for two people from December 25, 2012 to January 1, 2013. This was announced yesterday by Deputy Managing Director for the Entertainment City Affairs at the Touristic Enterprises Company, Meshary AlSanousy, who indicated that a special entertainment program featuring competitions and displays is prepared for the occasion. The Entertainment City welcomes visitors everyday from 4:00 pm to 12:00 am on weekdays and from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekends while Mondays are allocated exclusively for female visitors.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Air strike on bakery kills dozen Syrians

South Korea says North ‘rocket’ could reach US Page 12

Page 8

CAIRO: Former Presidential candidate Hamdin Sabahi (L) and Egyptian National Rescue Front members attend a press conference in Cairo yesterday. Egypt’s opposition said it will appeal a referendum seen as voting in a new constitution backed by ruling Islamists, and vowed to keep up a struggle that has spawned weeks of protests and instability. — AFP

Egyptians back new constitution Opposition says it will unite and fight on CAIRO: An Islamist-backed Egyptian constitution won approval in a referendum, rival camps said yesterday, after a vote the opposition said would sow deep social divisions in the Arab world’s most populous nation.

The Islamist Muslim Brotherhood, which propelled President Mohamed Mursi to power in a June election, said an unofficial tally showed 64 percent of voters backed the charter after two rounds of voting that ended with a final ballot on Saturday.

An opposition official also told Reuters their unofficial count showed the result was a “yes” vote, while party spokesmen said there had been a series of abuses during the voting. The main opposition coalition, the National Salvation Front, responded to the defeat by saying it was moving towards forming a single political party to challenge the Islamists who have dominated the ballot box since strongman Hosni Mubarak was overthrown two years ago.

Members of the opposition, taking heart from a low turnout of about 30 percent of voters, pledged to keep up pressure on Mursi through peaceful protests and other democratic means.

“The referendum is not the end of the road,” said Khaled Dawoud, a spokesman for the National Salvation Front. “It is only the beginning of a long struggle for Egypt’s future.”

The referendum committee may not declare official results for the two rounds until Monday, after hearing appeals. If the outcome is confirmed, a parliamentary election will follow in about two months.

Mursi’s Islamist backers say the constitution is vital for the transition to democracy, nearly two years after Mubarak was ousted in a popular uprising. It will provide the stability needed to help a fragile economy, they say.

The constitution was “a historic opportunity to unite all national powers on the basis of mutual respect and honest dialogue for the sake of stabilising the nation,” the Brotherhood said in a statement.

The opposition accuses Mursi of pushing through a text that favours Islamists and ignores the rights of Christians, who make up about 10 percent of the population, as well as women. They say it is a recipe for further unrest.

The opposition said voting in both rounds was marred by abuses. However, an official said the overall vote favoured the charter.

“The majority is not big and the minority is not small,” liberal politician Amr Hamzawy said, adding that the National Salvation Front would use “all peaceful, democratic means” such as protests to challenge the constitution. The vote was split over two days as many judges had refused to supervise the ballot, making a single day of voting impossible.

During the build-up to the vote there were deadly protests, sparked by Mursi’s decision to award himself extra powers in a Nov. 22 decree and then to fast-track the constitutional vote.

The new basic law sets a limit of two fouryear presidential terms. It says the principles of sharia, Islamic law, remain the main source of legislation but adds an article to explain

this. It also says Islamic authorities will be consulted on sharia - a source of concern to Christians and others.

Rights groups reported what they said were illegalities in voting procedures. They said some polling stations opened late, that Islamists illegally campaigned at some polling places, and complained of irregularities in voter registration.

But the committee overseeing the twostage vote said its investigations showed no major irregularities in voting on Dec. 15, which covered about half of Egypt’s 51 million voters. About 25 million were eligible to vote in the second round. The Brotherhood said turnout was about a third of voters. The opposition says the constitution will stir up more trouble on the streets since it has not received sufficiently broad backing for a document that should be agreed by consensus, and raised questions about the fairness of the vote.

In the first round, the district covering most of Cairo voted “no,” which opponents said showed the depth of division. “I see more unrest,” said Ahmed Said, head of the liberal Free Egyptians Party and a member of the opposition Front. He cited “serious violations” on the first day of voting, and said anger against Mursi was growing. “People are not going to accept the way they are dealing with the situation.” At least eight people were killed in protests outside the presidential palace in Cairo this month.

Islamists and rivals clashed in Alexandria, the second-biggest city, on the eves of both voting days. —Reuters

Monti won’t run for Italian premier ROME: After keeping Italians, and the rest of Europe, in suspense for weeks, caretaker Premier Mario Monti yesterday ruled out running in February elections but said he would consider leading the next government if political forces sharing his reformfocused economic agenda requested it.

The decision by Monti positions him to take the helm again without having to get into the nitty gritty of campaigning - thus preserving his image as someone above the political fray who can make tough decisions imposing austerity measures. His previous such measures have boosted confidence in Italyís finances, and fellow European leaders have made it no secret that they want his policies to stay in place.

Silvio Berlusconi, the scandal-tainted expremier considering another run, commented scathingly on Montiís openness to another term. ìI had a nightmare - still a government with Monti,î the media mogul said in an interview on state TV. He has said in the past that he would run again if Monti did not, but made no commitment Sunday about his own political future.

Monti, who after his resignation Friday is continuing in a caretaker role in charge of a

non-elected government tasked with rescuing Italy from economy, ruled out heading any ticket - even a center-right grouping that Berlusconi said he would be willing to back. But the 69-year-old economist made it clear he was willing to take another turn in power. ìIf one or more political forces is credibly backing (my) agenda or even has a better one, Iíd evaluate the offer,î Monti said during a news conference. ìTo those forces who demonstrate convincing and credible adherence to the Monti agenda, I am ready to give my appreciation, encouragement, and if requested, leadership, and I am ready to assume, one day, if the circumstances require it, the responsibility that would be entrusted to me by Parliament.î Monti ruled out heading any ticket himself, saying ìI have no sympathy for ëpersonalí parties.î Italy is struggling to shore up its finances and emerge from recession, a challenge made harder by its volatile politics, which saw dozens of governments over the years that let tax evasion spread, avoided unpopular reforms like raising the retirement age, and allowed public spending to balloon.— AP

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Israel’s Netanyahu has little to fear ahead of vote JERUSALEM: A month before Israelis go to the polls in a snap election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has plenty to be confident about, with his only real challenges coming from within his own rightwing camp.

Polls put the joint list of his Likud party and the Yisrael Beitenu faction far ahead of the opposition, and the question is not whether Netanyahu will lead the next parliament, but how many seats his joint list will ultimately win.

Even the resignation of Yisrael Beitenu chief Avigdor Lieberman from his post as foreign minister, after his indictment on corruption charges, has failed to dent the list’s lead, with surveys projecting it will take 37 of the 120 seats in the Knesset.

In all, the rightwing nationalist bloc of parties led by the Likud-Beitenu list is expected to win 69 seats, far ahead

of the opposition. The only unknown for Netanyahu is how many seats his faction can win.

“Netanyahu had a dream recently, ahead of his second consecutive term: he wanted to be Ariel Sharon,” Yossi Verter of the Haaretz newspaper wrote recently, referring to the former Israeli prime minister. “He dreamed of winning the same total of 38 Knesset seats that Likud won when it was headed by Sharon in 2003; in so doing, he would establish a government whose operation would not be contingent upon any single coalition partner and he would be unencumbered by blackmail or threats.” The main obstacle to that dream will be Naftali Bennett, a former Netanyahu protege who is now expected to lead the hardline national religious party Jewish Home to one of their best electoral results ever. The lat-

est poll published by the Maariv newspaper on Friday showed the party, which now has just three seats in the Knesset, winning at least 12 seats. If the polls are right, they would become the third strongest party in the Knesset, behind only the Likud-Beitenu list and the opposition Labour party.

The former head of Netanyahu’s office, Bennett’s political ideology and history mirrors that of the prime minister. He backs the settlement policy favoured by the prime minister and hails from the same elite Sayeret Maktal army unit in which Netanyahu served. A former high-tech entrepreneur, the 40-year-old also shares Netanyahu’s excellent command of English, thanks to his American-born parents, and is similarly known as a savvy communicator.

Bennett has been careful to appeal

to the party’s traditional national-religious base, but has also courted young, secular Israelis.

He has made no secret of his desire to win at least three ministerial posts for his party, among them the housing ministry, which is seen as crucial by the settler movement for advancing its cause. Observers say Bennett’s increasing strength in the polls is behind the government’s recent push to advance major settlement projects in the West Bank, including in annexed east Jerusalem, in a bid to win back voters swayed by the charismatic leader.

But Netanyahu denied that in comments to Israel’s Channel 2 on Saturday night, saying the new construction was “a question of principle.” “ We live in a Jewish state and Jerusalem is the capital of Israel. The Western Wall is not occupied territory.

We build in Jerusalem because it is our right,” he said. Whatever obstacles Netanyahu may face will not, however, be coming from the opposition bloc, which the Maariv poll found was expected to win only around 51 seats, far short of the rightwing bloc.

The Labour party led by Shelly Yachimovich tops the opposition, and is projected to win around 20 seats.

HaTnuah, the new party formed by former foreign minister Tzipi Livni, is credited with around nine seats.

Yesh Atid, the new secular centrist party headed by former journalist Yair Lapid, is projected to win around seven seats, while the once-dominant Kadima-which garnered the most seats in the last elections-is expected to see its parliamentary representation reduced from 28 seats to just one. —AFP

Air strike on bakery kills dozen Syrians Peace envoy Brahimi in Syria

RAMADI: Iraqi protesters, demanding the ouster of premier Nuri Al-Maliki, block yesterday a highway in western Iraq leading to Syria and Jordan, in Ramadi. The protesters, including local officials, religious and tribal leaders, turned out in Ramadi, the capital of Sunni province of Anbar, to demonstrate against the arrest of nine guards of Finance Minister Rafa al-Essawi.—AFP

Iraqi protesters block highway to Jordan, Syria FALLUJAH: Thousands of protesters demonstrated yesterday in Iraq’s western Sunni heartland following the arrest of bodyguards assigned to the finance minister, briefly blocking the main highway linking Baghdad with neighboring Jordan and Syria.

The dispute threatens to exacerbate tensions with Iraq’s Sunnis, who accuse Shiite Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki of targeting and marginalizing them. The sectarian conflicts have largely paralyzed the government and have often turned violent.

On Friday, Iraq’s Shiite-led government said it arrested 10 of Finance Minister Rafia alIssawi’s bodyguards on terrorism-related charges. The government said it carried out the arrests according to the law and opposes any efforts to sow sectarian discontent.

In al-Issawi’s hometown of Fallujah, some demonstrators covering their faces with red-checkered traditional tribal headdress carried pistols under their clothes.

Others held flags from the era of deposed dictator Saddam Hussein and those now being raised by Syrian anti-government rebels.

It was the second time in three days that protesters in Anbar province have flocked into the streets. The protesters held banners denouncing what they called the “irresponsible practices” of the Shiite-led government against Sunnis and demanded the immediate release of al-Issawi’s bodyguards. Other banners mocked that anti-terrorism law they charged applies only to Sunnis, while protesters chanted, “Down, Down al-Maliki.”

Ali al-Moussawi, a spokesman for alMaliki, said the demonstrations were aimed to create nationwide chaos and revive the sectarian conflict in the country. “Raising the old Iraq flag means that there were people affiliated to the previous regime that cannot live in the new Iraq,” al-

Moussawi said. “ The Iraqi government respects demonstrations and their demands if they are in line with the law, but such demonstrations where the old flag is raised and sectarian slogans are used aim only at creating chaos.”

Demonstrators leveled harsh charges against the government. “The injustice has reached its highest levels,” said one demonstrator, who gave only his nickname, Abu Nouri, for security reasons. “Nouri al-Maliki is doing nothing for Iraqis,” he said. “He’s only busy removing political rivals from his path in the name of democracy and law.”

“Why doesn’t al-Maliki go after criminals and outlaws among the Shiites who sit in parliament and government, and are wellknown for their atrocities over the years?” said another protester, who called himself Abu Omar al-Falluji, using a nickname for security reasons. “The answer is clear. He wants to shut the mouths that criticize him to turn this country into a pure Shiite one affiliated to Iran,” he charged.

Fallujah, a former insurgent stronghold, is located 65 kilometers (40 miles) west of Baghdad.The case of al-Issawi will likely fuel the simmering political infighting over power sharing in post-Saddam Iraq.

On Friday, Sunni Deputy Prime Minister Saleh al-Mutlaq threatened that his Iraqiya bloc could withdraw from the political process altogether if lawmakers and independent bodies are not allowed to monitor the investigation involving al-Issawi’s staff.

The arrests came a year after the government arrested nearly 70 bodyguards assigned to Sunni Vice President Tariq alHashemi on terrorism-related charges.

Then al-Hashemi himself was convicted of orchestrating death squads, a charge he dismissed as politically motivated. Iraqi courts have since handed down multiple death sentences against him. He now lives in neighboring Turkey. — AP

Tehran claims it has overcome sanctions TEHRAN: Iran’s oil minister claimed yesterday his country has successfully overcome sanctions on the sale of its oil, state TV reported. The UN and West have imposed tough economic sanctions on Iran to try to persuade it to stop its uranium enrichment project, including a ban by the EU on oil imports, but Iran remains defiant.

Oil Minister Rostam Ghasemi that the industry was in “bad shape” about two months ago because of the oil embargo, “but resorting to planning in the oil industry, we left the bottleneck behind, almost.”

The EU imposed its embargo in July.

Ghasemi said Iran’s oil sector would be able to export its oil to the “farthest spots” around the world. In contrast, China, India and Korea recently announced that they have cut back their oil imports from Iran to comply with international sanctions.

Ghasemi also said that Iran has set up its own insurance for oil tankers after Western companies refused to cover them.”By revoking insurance, the West disrupted transportation of oil, the most important part” of trade, Ghasemi was quoted as saying. He said since a large portion of Iran’s

revenue comes from oil exports, “the embargo is a very important issue.” Iran’s oil exports have fallen by about half in recent months due to the punitive oil and banking measures enacted by the US and Europe over concerns Tehran might pursue production of nuclear weapons. Iran denies that it is developing weapons, saying its nuclear activities are aimed at peaceful purposes like power generation and cancer treatment.

Before the fall of exports, some 80 percent of Iran’s foreign revenue had come from oil sales. The drop has contributed to a plummet in the country’s currency has plummeted to less than half its former value. Due to longstanding US sanctions on Iran’s oil industry, the country has been suffering from lack of technology and equipment in its oil sector, but a senior official said that problem, too, is being solved.

Ahmad Qalehbani, head of state-owned National Iranian Oil Company, told the semi-official ISNA news agency that the country is capable of producing its own equipment for 85 percent of its needs in the oil industry. — AP

DAMASCUS: International peace envoy Lakhdar Brahimi arrived in Syria yesterday in a new bid to resolve the brutal 21-month conflict, as an air strike on a bakery in central Syria was reported to have killed dozens.

Officials said the UN-Arab League envoy, seen at the Sheraton Hotel in central Damascus, travelled overland from neighbouring Lebanon on a previously unannounced visit.

He last visited on October 19, but since then there has been fighting between government forces and rebels on the road to Damascus airport. During his October visit he met President Bashar al-Assad and other officials to clinch a temporary ceasefire for the Muslim feast of Eid al-Adha.

Despite pledges, the truce did not hold.

At least 44,000 people have been killed in violence across Syria since the outbreak of the antiregime revolt in March last year, according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights.

Information Minister Omran alZoabi, who earlier told reporters he had been unaware of any visit by Brahimi, reiterated calls for national dialogue.

“Only Syrians will participate in national dialogue,” he said. “We tell those who do not want dialogue to engage in talks, because time is running out.”

Hours after Zoabi’s press conference, regime warplanes bombarded a bakery in rebel-held Halfaya, in the central province of Hama, killing dozens and wounding many more, the Observatory and activists said. “In Halfaya, regime forces bombarded a bakery and commit-

DAMASCUS: In this photo released by the Syrian official news agency SANA, Syrian Information Minister Omran al-Zoubi speaks during a press conference in Damascus, Syria, yesterday. Al-Zoubi said, the Syrian government’s line that it is fighting terrorist groups backed by foreign powers who seek to destroy Syria, he equated the rebels with al-Qaeda and denied that they had taken over any territory and said the government was willing to engage in dialogue but said the other side wasn’t. — AP ted a massacre that killed dozens of people, including women and children, and wounded many others,” said the Local Coordination Committees, a grassroots network of activists.

“A MiG (jet) has attacked! Look at Assad’s weapons. Look, world, look at the Halfaya massacre,” says an unidentified cameraman shooting an amateur video distributed by the Observatory.

The footage showed a bombed one-storey block, a crater in the road beside it, bloodied bodies on the road and others in the rubble.

Men are seen carrying victims, among them at least one woman.

Yesterday, rebels launched an all-out assault on army positions

across Hama, where anti-regime sentiment is strong. During the summer, rights groups accused government forces of committing war crimes by dropping bombs and using artillery on or near bakeries.

Other air strikes yesterday included a raid in Aleppo province, the Britain-based Observatory said.

“At least 13 people were killed in an air raid on the town of Sfeira,” said the group, which relies on a network of doctors, activists and lawyers for its information.

Warplanes also hit the town of Saqba in Damascus province, just north of the road linking the capital to the international airport, the Observatory added. Meanwhile, the world’s largest Muslim body

condemned threats made by Islamist rebels against two Christian towns, warning of fresh confessional strife.

Such threats “are contrary to the precepts of Islam which calls for tolerance, brotherhood and peace,” said the 57-member Organisation of Islamic Cooperation based in the Saudi city of Jeddah.

The warnings came a day after NATO said it would be deploying Patriot missiles in neighbouring Turkey over the coming weeks.

“It will not support a no-fly zone or any offensive operation,” NATO said in a statement after the military alliance agreed earlier this month to station the missiles on Turkish soil. — AFP

Yemen general to head new unit after army overhaul SANAA: A powerful army general who lost a command in a military reshuffle seen as vital to stabilising Yemen may be given another senior post in the impoverished country’s armed forces, sources at the presidency said yesterday.

Brigadier General Ahmed Saleh, whose Republican Guard was abolished in the shakeup ordered on Wednesday by his political rival, President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi, is expected to be named as the commander of a military region, the sources said.

Hadi has vowed to unify the army, which is divided between allies and foes of Hadi’s predecessor Ali Abdullah Saleh, whose legacy

still looms large in Yemen and who is General Ahmed Saleh’s father.

Hadi’s decrees, restructuring the military into four main units and disbanding the Republican Guard, are widely seen as an attempt to reduce Saleh family influence in the military. Ahmed Saleh has voiced no public objection to the reshuffle, easing fears of more turmoil in a country in the throes of a tense political transition.

Hadi’s decrees also abolished the First Armoured Division, led by General Ali Mohsen al-Ahmar, a dissident military officer who broke away from Saleh’s forces after the protests began last year. Ahmar welcomed

SANAA: Soldiers of the Republican Guard show off their skills during the graduation ceremony for the first batch of a Personal Protection Battalion in the Yemeni capital Sanaa, yesterday. — AFP

the overhaul. A source at the presidential palace told Reuters on condition of anonymity that both Ahmed Saleh and General Ahmar would be given some senior positions in the new set-up. “It is expected that President Hadi will issue a decree to appoint Brigadier General Ahmed Saleh and General Ali alAhmar as commanders for two military regions,” the source said.

The source said the implementation of Wednesday’s decrees could take up to six months, during which time both Ahmed Saleh and Ahmar would remain in control of some military brigades. The source did not elaborate.

Another presidential source confirmed the anticipated move and added: “There are no objections to the president’s orders to restructure the army.” Officials at General Saleh’s office were not available for comment.

After a year of protests against his rule, then president Saleh made way for Hadi in February under a Gulf-brokered transition plan backed by Washington and its Western allies. But the former president’s continuing clout in the army and wider society worries its neighbours and Western nations who fear further conflict could plunge Yemen back into chaos. On Thursday, Ahmed Saleh agreed to give up his missiles in apparent compliance with the army shake-up. The military overhaul, part of an internationally backed plan to restore stability to Yemen, is widely seen as part of efforts to loosen the Saleh family’s grip on the armed forces.

Restoring security in Yemen is a priority for the United States and its Gulf allies because the country is the theatre of multiple conflicts, posing a potential threat to oil export giant Saudi Arabia next door and nearby shipping lanes. — Reuters

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Alabama terror case could hinge on relationships MOBILE: The terrorism case against an Alabama man accused of planning to wage Islamic jihad in Africa may hinge on just how well he knew a man on the FBI’s most-wanted terrorist list.

Federal prosecutors portrayed Randy Wilson as an Islamic radical who wanted to reunite with Omar Hammami, an American who also grew up in Alabama but has since become one of the most well-known jihadists in Somalia. Wilson and another American who lived in Alabama for the last year, Mohammad Abdul Rahman Abukhdair, are accused of plotting to leave the country to join Islamic radicals fighting in North Africa.

The two men were arrested separately about two weeks ago in Georgia.

Abukhdair was taken into custody at a bus station; Wilson was arrested as he was about to board a flight to Morocco.

Wilson’s attorney has described him as a devout Muslim who was taking his family to Mauritania to study Islam, not wage jihad. Public defender Domingo Soto also said Wilson didn’t live with Hammami, 28, about a decade ago, as the FBI has said, and the attorney questioned how well the two knew each

other. It wasn’t clear whether Abukhdair has an attorney yet. Wilson, 25, has a wife and two young children. He was known around his neighborhood in Mobile, along the Alabama coast, for his big yard sales. He was friendly and outgoing, neighbors said. Court documents, interviews with acquaintances and a sworn statement by an FBI investigator paint a picture of Wilson’s troubled childhood.

Debra Lynn Weaver and Randy Lamar Wilson married in Mobile in 1986 and had Randy Jr. nine months later.

Wilson’s father was arrested on drug charges in the first of a string of scrapes with the law, and his mother filed for divorce four months later, when he was 1. Wilson’s mother remarried an Egyptian man when he was 5. She converted to Islam with the marriage, and her son eventually became Muslim, too.

Ashfaq Taufique, president of the Birmingham Islamic Society, remembered first meeting Wilson when he was attending an Islamic school.

“I knew him as a Muslim as a young boy,” said Taufique. “He went by Randy and Rasheed.” Soto said Wilson client

has never been in trouble. While attending a Muslim school in Birmingham, he was offered prestigious scholarships to study abroad at places including Saudi Arabia, Soto said.

Shortly after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, he became roommates with Hammami, who was the president of the Muslim Student Association at the University of South Alabama, the FBI said. He was quoted in a campus newspaper talk ing about the attacks.

“Everyone was really shocked. Even now it’s difficult to believe a Muslim could have done this,” he told The Vanguard.

Hammami later wrote in an online autobiography that he already had turned toward radicalism by that time and privately praised Allah for the attacks. Wilson and Hammami lived together for about 20 months until December 2004, the FBI said.

Hammami moved to Toronto in early 2005, and it’s unclear whether he and Wilson kept in contact. Hammami later went to Egypt and joined Islamic insurgents, becoming a spokesman in videos and blogs.

He has since fallen out of favor with leaders of the Somalian terror group alShabab, which issued a statement recently distancing itself from Hammami, whom it accused of “a narcissistic pursuit of fame.”

In 2010, Wilson met Abuk hdair online, according to the FBI. A native of Syracuse, NY, Abuk hdair moved to Egypt in February 2007 to study Arabic, the FBI said. He was among a group of people arrested in Egypt in 2010, on suspicion of being involved with a terror group there. He was put in prison for two months, and then he was deported to the US last year. He lived in South Carolina and Ohio, before coming to Mobile in late October 2011 according to an FBI agent’s sworn statement. Agents already were watching Abukhdair and Wilson by then. The FBI said Abukhdair moved in with Wilson’s family and gave the Friday sermon at a mosque in Mobile about a year ago.

Leaders at the mosque didn’t return telephone calls seeking comment, and a worker shooed away a reporter who visited. The FBI said it kept tabs on the pair through an undercover operative.

Wilson “described Hammami as a friend and showed the (undercover operative) an al-Qaeda video on his laptop praising jihad and the downfall of the West,” the FBI said. Wilson and Abukhdair began concocting ways to travel to Africa to join in jihad, an agent wrote.

Wilson, the FBI said, believed he would receive “special treatment” in Somalia because of his connection with Hammami. “In addition to travel plans, they discussed their joy that Omar Hammami is now on the FBI ‘Most Wanted Terrorists’ list, and were excited that he is now even more famous,” said the FBI statement.

Wilson lived next door to Tom Rothaar for two years. Rothaar said he was a friendly neighbor and who would have frequent yard sales with items he bought in bulk from big-box retail stores. Rothaar said he was “staggered”

by Wilson’s arrest and tried to make sense of it during a 5 mile run.

“I couldn’t,” Rothaar said. “The only thing I can think is all the t ypical clichÈs about how I cannot believe he was living next door and seemed so normal.” — AP

Chavez ‘heir’ steps up profile in political void ‘Chavez will continue to be our president’

HAVANA: Cuban President Raul Castro (L) receives his Bolivian counterpart Evo Morales (C), upon his arrival at Jose Marti international airport in Havana yesterday. Morales is in Cuba to visit Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, hospitalized in the island. — AFP

Petitioners ask Obama to retaliate for adoption ban WASHINGTON: Tens of thousands of petitioners are calling for US President Barack Obama to escalate the diplomatic feud that led Moscow to propose a law barring Americans from adopting Russian children.

Two petitions on the White House web site are asking for US sanctions on the Russian lawmakers who help pass the law that one of the petitions says will “jeopardize lives and well-being of thousands of Russian orphans.”

Moscow sees the ban on adoptions as retaliation for a US human rights law that allows the seizure of assets from Russian officials implicated in the 2009 death of a Russian lawyer who blew the whistle on a $235 million police embezzlement scheme.

Under the US law-dubbed the Magnitsky Act in tribute to the late lawyer those same officials would also be barred from entering the United States. More than 37,000 people have signed one of the petitions saying they are “outraged with the actions of Russian law-makers.”

According to the White House rules, there will be an official response if the petition reaches 25,000 signatures within 30 days. These lawmakers “breached all imaginable boundaries of humanity, responsibility, or common sense and chose to jeopardize lives and well-being of thousands of

Russian orphans, some of whom, the ill and the disabled ones, now might not have a chance of survival if the ban on international adoption is to be put in place,” the petition continues. The petitioners “urge this Administration to identify those involved in adopting such legislature responsible under ‘Magnitsky Act’ and thus included to the relevant list.” Likewise, a second petition, signed by more than 5,000 people, asks that the Magnitsky Act “be extended to supporters of this law in (the) Russian Duma.” The Duma passed the adoption ban without debate in a quick 420-7 vote on Friday as protesters picketed the building demanding the measure be voted down.

The Kremlin-dominated upper house is now expected to approve the bill next Wednesday before passing it on to President Vladimir Putin for his signature.

The Russian leader has indicated he is ready to put his name on the measure so that it could enter law on January 1. The measure, which underscores the severity of the recent strain in Russia-US ties, would end about 1,000 adoptions a year.

Caregivers in particular fear the new rules will hit the most disadvantaged children because foreign adoptive parents are often ready to adopt kids rejected by Russian families. —AFP

CARACAS: With Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez recovering from cancer surgery in Cuba, his designated heir Nicolas Maduro has been spotlighting his own leadership in case of an early presidential vote, observers say.

“Today, Maduro is completely different from when he was just the foreign minister. He is the vice president but he is also the handpicked successor (of Chavez) and the defacto acting president,” said Luis Vicente Leon, who leads the Datanalisis pollster.

Since Chavez headed to Cuba on December 10 for a fourth round of surgery since he was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, Maduro has worked on honing his skills as a higher-profile leader in his own right in this OPEC member sitting atop the world’s largest proven oil reserves. Maduro has lashed out at the opposition, Chavez-style, on national television. And he has combatively pledged to fight to defend the socialist revolution that Chavez, a leftist ex-paratrooper, launched.

“I’m sorry I have voice trouble, from working so much these days, and after a cold I had that I am not over,” a weary-looking Maduro admitted at a ceremony he presided over on Friday, swearing in proChavez governors from three Andean states.

Chavez, who was re-elected in October, has picked Maduro to fill in should his cancer make it impossible for the president to be sworn in for a new term on January 10.

The Venezuelan leader urged his party to support Maduro in the event of an early presidential election should he be unable to return to power. The 50-year-old vice president, a former bus driver and union activist, “needs to validate his leadership, because it could in the near future be an issue in a political campaign,” Leon said. DataStrategia chief Carmen Beatriz Fernandez noted that Maduro has played a prominent role at swearing-in ceremonies, and in speeches has “taken on the tone of someone who is on the campaign trail.” “He has been anointed as Chavez’s heir, and now

Former Gov Sanford eyes US House bid COLUMBIA: Former South Carolina Gov Mark Sanford, who left public life two years ago after mysteriously disappearing to visit his then-mistress in Argentina, is poised to re -enter the political arena.

Acknowledging reports that he is seriously weighing a congressional bid for the seat he once held, Sanford wrote in an email late Saturday: “To answer your question, yes the accounts are accurate.” Sanford promised “further conversation on all this” at a later date. The two-term governor was a rising Republican political star before he vanished from South Carolina for five days in 2009. Reporters were told he was hiking the Appalachian Trail, but he later tearfully acknowledged he was visiting Maria Belen Chapur, which he told ever yone at news conference announcing his affair. He later called her his soul mate in an interview with AP and the two were engaged earlier this year. The opening for Sanford comes after Rep. Tim Scott was appointed to fill the remaining two years of Sen. Jim DeMint’s seat. DeMint announced earlier this month he was resigning. News that Sanford, 52, may be interested in the seat comes days after his ex-wife, Jenny, appeared to be dipping her toe into the state’s political waters. She was reportedly on Gov.

Nikki Haley’s short list of candidates to fill the seat that went to Scott. Jenny Sanford later said she would think about a run for Scott’s seat representing the coastal 1st Congressional District, the seat her ex-husband is now considering.

“I’d be crazy not to look at the race a little bit,” she said Tuesday, before reports about Mark Sanford surfaced.

State Republicans said Scott plans to submit his letter of resignation from the House on Jan 2, triggering a process of candidate filing and primaries leading up to a special election in May. Scott, in a taped interview airing yesterday on CBS’ “Face the Nation,” said he thinks there may be 25 or 30 candidates running for the seat. “This is going to be a very active primary,” he said when asked about Sanford’s run.

“The citizens of the 1st District will have an opportunity to have their voice heard through the vote and then two weeks later there will obviously be a runoff because with that many candidates we’ll have a lot to say grace over.”

Mark Sanford knows the 1st District well. Elected to the seat in 1994 - Jenny Sanford managed his first campaign and was a close adviser for most of his career - he served three terms before voters elected him governor in 2002.

The former governor would bring

name recognition and money to the race - two things especially important due to the short campaign season and wide-open field.

Whether voters are ready to welcome Sanford back to politics is another issue. “It’s absolutely absurd. He just has so much baggage. He was such an embarrassment to the state, we don’t need that,” said Gloria Day, a retired attorney in Charleston.

He avoided impeachment but was censured by the Legislature. He also had to pay more than $70,000 in ethics fines - still the largest in state history after AP investigations raised questions about his use of state, private and commercial aircraft.

Others said Sanford’s fiscal record is what ’s impor tant, and Sanford is known as a libertarian-leaning ideologue who railed against spending and bucked Republican Par ty leaders before anyone even coined the conservative tea party movement.

“Mark Sanford is a reliable fiscal conservative so I, like many conservatives, would be delighted to see him in the race,” said Joanne Jones, vice chairman of the conser vative, anti-tax Charleston Tea Party, though she noted she’ll wait to see the entire field before throwing her support behind a candidate.—AP

PETION-VILLE: Pierre Denis, who works at Venezuela’s embassy, carries an image of Venezuela’s President Hugo Chavez after holding a Mass to pray for Chavez’s health in Petion-Ville, Haiti. Chavez is recovering in Cuba from surgery, his fourth operation related to pelvic cancer since June 2011. — AP he is taking up that role actively. He is preparing himself for a presidential election in the near future,” she added. The vice president still feels the need to tread carefully on the issue of taking over the helm. “I am just a vice president. We have a president who is on duty and his name is Hugo Chavez Frias,” he shouted to supporters in Tachira.

Leon said that nevertheless Maduro has dropped his once “moderate” profile to make heavy use of words like “bourgeoisie” and “imperialism,” references to Chavez ’s twin foes of wealthy Venezuelans and the United States, which he has often used as scapegoats to fire up crowds of mostly poor supporters.

“Maduro used to look much more moderate, calmer, but now he seems to be imitating Chavez’s role, and trying to be more belligerent,” Fernandez said. Meanwhile, on Saturday, National Assembly speaker Diosdado Cabello urged Venezuelans Saturday not to be fixated of the date of Januar y 10

when Chavez’s searing-in ceremony to a third term is scheduled to take place. Responding to multiple queries about what would happen if Chavez, 58, fails to show up, Cabello insisted that “the date of January 10 does not determine the president-elect’s absolute absence.”

According to the speaker, if intervening circumstances prevent the president from showing up on that date, the constitution allows him to be sworn in before Supreme Court justices. And, Cabello added, the constitution “does not say when and where” this kind of inauguration should take place, giving some currency to rumors that the justices could be flown to Havana, if Chavez were unable to return to Caracas.

“Commandante Hugo Chavez will continue to be our president,” the speaker concluded. The face of the Latin American left for more than a decade and a firebrand critic of US “imperialism,” Chavez asserted before embarking on his arduous re-election campaign earlier

this year that he was cancer-free.

But he was later forced to admit he had suffered a recurrence of the disease. He returned to Cuba, a key Venezuelan ally, for surgery and follow-up treatment.

Venezuela has never said what type of cancer Chavez has, nor which organs are affected, but doctors removed a tumor from his pelvic region last year.

Maduro said he had been told by prosecutor Cilia Flores, who had just returned from Havana and had been in contact with the Chavez family, that “the president’s recovery is consolidating with every passing day.” But the remarks suggested that, for one reason or another, the Venezuelan number two has not had direct telephone conversations with Chavez. A medical report made public by the Cuban government on Thursday said Chavez was going through a “gradual stabilization process” after suffering a respiratory track infection, which was now “being treated and controlled.” — AFP

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

Britain’s forgotten asylum seekers left in limbo LONDON: Displaced from his home country of Zimbabwe to Britain because of his political beliefs, James would like nothing better than to focus on buying Christmas presents for his sick young son.

But after waiting two and a half years to hear whether he can stay, James not his real name-remains in limbo: legally unable to work, reliant on handouts, and struggling even to raise the bus fare to visit his son in hospital.

“I want to provide everything for my family, to have a normal life, to give people Christmas presents,” said James, 46, who has an electronics degree. Instead, having endured two winters of homelessness, he waits.

James is among a huge backlog of asylum seekers in Britain waiting years to hear if their applications have succeededa situation blasted in a report last month by the British parliament’s influential home affairs committee.

The report said the UK Border Agency had shelved the cases of 74,000 asylum seekers by saying it had lost touch with them; of the rest, 30 percent must wait more than three years for a decision.

Britain accepts asylum applications

under UN and EU agreements, and receives about 17,000 a year, below the European average per head of population. Yet the backlog is still growing. At one point more than 150 boxes of post, including letters from applicants and lawyers, lay unopened in a room, the report found.

James’s journey to Britain began in 2001, with a visit to his Harare home from a group of men he immediately recognised as bad news. “There were four or five men. Three of them were wearing smart-casual type clothes with ties. They didn’t have any documents, and the car they were travelling in-I knew it was the type the CIO use,” James said, referring to Zimbabwe’s feared Central Intelligence Organisation.

“They tried to abduct me and my friend but they wouldn’t even say why they wanted to question us. So an argument started and we ended up in a scuffle. I was hit on the forehead with a hard object.”

James managed to escape, but he knew the men would likely return, because he and his friend had been distributing membership cards for the then-

opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC).

Opponents of the government of Robert Mugabe, 88 and in power since 1980, have faced disappearances, torture and killings, according to Amnesty International. Two of James’s brothers were in Britain, and fearing for his future, they helped him move there as a student.

James went on to earn his degree from a London university.

He married a fellow Zimbabwean and joined the MDC’s British branch. But he was no longer able to extend his student visa and did not feel safe returning to Zimbabwe to lodge a new application from there.

“The CIO are at the airport. The moment you get there, they want to know who you are, where you are coming from, why were you away for such a long time?” he said. “I know what it’s like. I have friends who have been taken away.

Some have come back beaten up, others don’t come back. The last time I tried calling one friend, he wasn’t answering, and I don’t know what’s happened to him.”

MDC chief Morgan Tsvangirai became premier in 2009 under a unity govern-

ment, but human rights groups say oppression continued.

Zimbabwe, Iran and Afghanistan are the most common countries from which people seek asylum in Britain, and in 2010 James decided his only option was to join the queue.

Like many others, he received an initial refusal citing a lack of evidence. But he appealed on advice from a lawyer, remaining in the country legally. In the meantime James was not allowed to work and the couple were destitute. His wife stayed with a friend, while James was homeless, staying in shelters if he was lucky.

“All of the winter in 2010 and 2011 I had no place to live,” he said. “It’s been a really, really tough time.” James’s wife gave birth to twins in 2011; one died, while the surviving son has a chronic lung condition.

Eventually, helped by charity Refugee Action, the family accessed state benefits including vouchers and basic accommodation in the northwestern city of Manchester. But James still struggles to raise bus fares and has heard nothing on his asylum claim for two years.

He longs to work and start a normal family life. “The legal limbo that (James) is in, like so many others in this country waiting for a decision on their asylum claim, is unacceptable,” said Dave Garratt, chief executive of Refugee Action.

Asylum applications in Europe have fallen sharply from a peak 10 years ago, but many governments continue to keep applicants waiting. In Germany they wait an average of more than 21 months, according to an EU-sponsored education project.

In Britain, Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservative-led coalition government, which has promised a clampdown on immigration, places emphasis on deporting illegal immigrants rather than resolving asylum cases.

But a UK Border Agency spokesperson said: “We are resolving asylum cases more quickly. Last year 63 percent of cases were dealt with within 12 months...

Protection is always given where there is a well-founded fear of persecution.”

Garratt of Refugee Action added: “Whilst the number of unresolved cases can be counted, the human cost of wasted potential is beyond measure.” — AFP

Ousted British minister says he was ‘stitched up’ ‘I was devastated’

SAINT JEAN PIED DE PORT: Aurore Martin, a former French leader of Batasuna, the outlawed Basque party in Spain, reacts as she arrives in Saint Jean Pied de Port, southwestern France, Saturday. A Spanish court on Friday, set bail terms for Martin who was extradited and charged with belonging to a terrorist organization as one of its leaders in a rare case where France extradited a citizen to be tried elsewhere. — AP

Kenyan premier, deputy to face off in presidential poll NAIROBI: Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Odinga announced that he will run for president next year, when he will face off against his deputy, who has been charged with crimes against humanity in deadly violence that followed 2007 polls.

Odinga, 67, and Deputy Prime Minister Uhuru Kenyatta, 51, were both key players in a presidential polling crisis five years ago that tarnished Kenya’s reputation of stability.

Odinga and Kenyatta were named as the official candidates of their political groups in the March 4 election-the Coalition of Reform and Democracy (CORD) for Odinga and the Jubilee Coalition for Kenyatta.

“I commit myself to the people of Kenya and (CORD) by accepting the nomination to be its presidential flagbearer,” said Odinga, who lost to current incumbent Mwai Kibaki in the December 2007 vote. Kenyatta supported Kibaki.

The International Criminal Court, based in The Hague, has charged Kenyatta, the son of Kenyan founding father Jomo Kenyatta, over his alleged role in the unrest, in which at least 1,100 people were killed and more than 600,000 were displaced.

“I will never let you down,” Uhuru Kenyatta said at a rally in Mombasa, on Kenya’s Indian Ocean coast.

Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka initially planned to run for the country’s top job, but said Saturday that he had shelved his “personal presidential ambitions in favour of Prime Minister Raila Odinga.” The violence came after

Odinga, who was then the opposition leader, accused Kibaki of rigging his reelection. Political riots quickly degenerated into ethnic killings.

Under international pressure, Odinga was eventually named prime minister in a large coalition government. The violence was Kenya’s worst since independence in 1963, and the ICC accused several officials of playing a role.

Ultimately, four people were charged, including Kenyatta and former minister William Ruto, who will be Kenyatta’s running mate. Their trial at the ICC is due to start April 10 and will clash with the second round of the presidential elections.

Prosecutors say Kenyatta mobilised a criminal gang known as the Mungiki to attack Odinga supporters.

Kenyatta faces five charges of crimes against humanity, including murder, rape, persecution, deportation and other inhumane acts. Ruto faces three charges of crimes against humanity.

Both have claimed their innocence and have promised to cooperate with the ICC. Kenyatta resigned as finance minister in January when the ICC ruled he should stand trial. About 14 million voters are registered for the presidential election in the country of some 40 million. Tensions are high and-whether tied to the poll or not-there has been an increase in bomb blasts and other attacks.

A tribal attack Friday in a remote village in the country’s southeast claimed 45 lives. Though the motive for the attack was not known, some suggested a link to a disarmament campaign in the area, or to the March presidential polls. — AFP

MOSCOW: A sculptor works on a wall of the ice fortress in a park in central Moscow yesterday. A cold wave of weather hit this week the Russian capital. The temperatures in Moscow reached yesterday to - 20C. — AFP

LONDON: The British cabinet minister forced to quit over accusations he called Downing Street police officers “plebs” claimed yesterday he had been “stitched up” in his first full account of the furore.

Andrew Mitchell said abusive phrases attributed to him were “hung round my neck in a concerted effort to toxify the Conservative Party and destroy my political career”. Mitchell who resigned in October as the government chief whip-charged with enforcing discipline among Prime Minister David Cameron’s Conservativessaid he was hit with a “tsunami of vitriol” following the incident.

Mitchell laid bare his account of the September 19 dispute and its aftermath in The Sunday Times newspaper, as he intensified efforts to clear his name and pave the way for a return to government.

Last week police opened an investigation into a possible conspiracy against the former international development secretary after it emerged an email from a civilian witness backing up the claims was in fact written by another officer. Newly-released CCTV footage also raises questions about the accuracy of the police log from that night, which was leaked to the press.

“Suddenly I realised I was being stitched up”, he told The Sunday Times.

Mitchell wrote in the broadsheet that he had been through the Downing Street front gates several times that week in September. “On this occasion the conversation with the police was as follows,” he said. “Me: ‘Please open the gates.’

“Police: ‘No. Please get off your bike and leave by the pedestrian exit.’ “Me: ‘Please open the gates, I am the chief whip; I work here at No. 9.’ “Police: ‘No, you have to get off your bike and wheel it out.’ “Me: ‘Look, I have already been in and out several times today. Please open the gates.’

“With that I complied with the policeman’s request and wheeled my bike across the pavement and out through the pedestrian entrance.

“As I did so, I muttered-though not directly at him-’I thought you guys were supposed to fucking help us.’

“To which the policeman responded: ‘If you swear at me I will arrest you.’ Whereupon I cycled off. As I left, I think I said that I would pursue the matter further the next day.”

The alleged police log of the incident, leaked to newspapers, recorded Mitchell as saying:

LONDON: Police officers stand guard at the gates to Downing Street in central London yesterday. The British cabinet minister forced to quit over claims he called Downing Street police officers “plebs” insisted yesterday he had been “stitched up” in his first full account of the furore. Andrew Mitchell said abusive phrases attributed to him were “hung round my neck in a concerted effort to toxify the Conservative Party and destroy my political career”. — AFP “Best you learn your fucking place. You don’t run this fucking government. You’re fucking plebs.”

The email seemingly backing up the police record was “larded with detail” and “gave every appearance of being designed to stand up the police log”, Mitchell wrote.

“It was completely untrue. I was devastated.

This was a stitch-up. “I now know a good deal more about that email and how calculatedly dishonest it is. “For the next three weeks these awful phrases were hung round my neck in a concerted attempt to toxify the Conservative Party and destroy my political career. I never uttered those phrases; they are completely untrue. “A tsunami of vitriol was poured on my head as my reputation was assailed from all sides and my character assassinated.

“Night-time was the worst. We would sleep for two hours and then wake, tossing and turning for the rest of the night as I contemplated the destruction of my career,” he wrote.

Scotland Yard police chief Bernard Hogan-Howe

Thatcher doing ‘fine’ in hospital LONDON: British former prime minister Margaret Thatcher was doing “fine” yesterday, her fourth day in hospital where she was recovering from a minor operation to remove a growth in her bladder, an associate said.

“She is (at the hospital) at the moment and she’s fine,” said public relations executive Lord Tim Bell, who advised the 87-year-old “Iron Lady” for her three general election victories. He told AFP that her daughter Carol was at her side and that he had “no idea at all” when Thatcher would leave hospital, though earlier he had said it was possible she would remain there over Christmas.

The former Conservative Party leader, Britain’s prime minister from 1979 to 1990, was admitted to hospital on Thursday for what Bell had described as “minimally invasive surgery”.

On Friday, current conservative Prime Minister David Cameron’s office wrote on Twitter that the “PM wishes Lady Thatcher a speedy recovery”. In recent years, Thatcher-the 20th century’s longest continuous occupant of 10 Downing Street and Britain’s only female premier-has cut a subdued figure.

After a series of minor strokes, she was told by doctors to quit public speaking in 2002. With dementia taking hold, she has appeared increasingly rarely in public. Her daughter once revealed that the former premier had to be repeatedly reminded that her husband Denis had died in 2003. — AFP

has broken off from his holiday to be briefed on the progress of the investigation into the affair, which has 30 officers on the case.

A police officer was arrested last weekend on suspicion of misconduct in a public office.

Another man was arrested on Wednesday on suspicion of “intentionally encouraging or assisting the commission of an indictable offence on or around 14 December”.

The row is also causing trouble for Cameron, who defended himself on Sunday against criticism by friends of Mitchell who said the premier had left him “swinging in the wind”. A Downing Street spokesman said Cameron had “deep sympathy” for Mitchell.

“The prime minister stood behind his chief whip through weeks of growing demands to sack him. It was only when it became clear that he could no longer do his job that his resignation was accepted with reluctance,” the spokesman said. “Andrew Mitchell did not disagree with the prime minister’s approach throughout this period.” — AFP

56 arrested for raid on Kenyan coastal village MOMBASA: Fifty-six people have been arrested on suspicion of killing 30 villagers, including women and children, on the coast of Kenya, police said yesterday.

Friday’s violent clash fuelled international concern over security in the east African state ahead of elections next year. Raiders, settled farmers from the Pokomo ethnic group, attacked seminomadic Orma pastoralists with guns, machetes and spears.

The two groups have fought for years over access to grazing, farmland and water, but human rights activists blame the latest violence on politicians seeking to drive away parts of the local population they believe will vote for rivals in national elections due in March.

The United States, which sees Kenya as an important ally in a volatile region facing the threat of al Qaeda-linked militants in Somalia, issued a statement roundly condemning the violence.

A statement from White House spokesman Jay Carney said: “The United States condemns in the strongest terms the renewed violence in Kenya’s Tana River region ... This latest incident represents a disturbing escalation of the tragic violence witnessed by these communities in August and September.”

It added: “With historic elections approaching in March, peace and stability are essential to Kenya’s continued progress. The United States urges the people of Kenya to assert their rights through peaceful means, as provided for in Kenya’s constitution, so that all Kenyans may realize a secure, democratic, and prosperous future.”

After Kenya’s disputed 2007 national elections 1,200 people were killed and many thousands more were driven from their homes.

Survivors described Friday’s raid.

Hamisi Abdul, an Orma, said of the attack by the Pokomo: “They hacked everyone they came across with machetes and spears and shot indiscriminately at us, even as we scampered to seek safety in the bushes. It was confusion. We didn’t know which direction they were coming from.” Abdul, 27, is in hospital nursing two bullet wounds on his left arm and shoulder.

Police said 11 Pokomo had also died in Friday’s violence which they described as a reprisal raid following a series of clashes in August in which more than 100 people died.

They added that the dead among the Orma included six women and 13 children. — Reuters

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

I N T E R N AT I O N A L

South Korea says North ‘rocket’ could reach US Capable of carrying warhead of 500-600 kilograms

MANILA: A young boy (C) looks up at the goods on offer as shoppers pack a market to do their Christmas shopping in Manila yesterday. About 90 percent of the Philippines population is Christian and the country has earned the distinction of celebrating the longest and merriest festivity in the world. — AFP

‘No Christmas’ for typhoon victims MANILA: Survivors of a typhoon that ravaged the southern Philippines will bypass Christmas this year as they hole up in evacuation centres and continue to bury their dead, officials said yesterday.

Instead of presents and carols, thousands of people on the island of Mindanao will be more concerned with food, water and shelter, civil defence chief Benito Ramos said. Instead of a traditional Christmas dinner, the government will distribute special packs of spaghetti, corned beef and fruit salad.

“There will no celebrations. It is just too sad. It will just be a regular day. We do not call it Christmas,” he told AFP as relief workers rushed supplies to towns flattened by Typhoon Bopha, which slammed into the island on December 4.

So far 1,067 people have been confirmed dead, with more than 800 missing, according to the government.Ramos said that-unlike in the rest of the majorityCatholic Philippines there would be no Christmas parties in the storm hit towns, just the burials of bodies. Many of the

dead are in an advanced state of decomposition after failing to be identified.

Ramos denied reports that bodies had been dumped in a mass grave yesterday.

“There was a semblance of a decent burial after the 17 bodies were identified,” he said. The burial was helped by the donation of 500 coffins from a province north of Manila, he added.

Ramos’s office said there were still 13,940 people living in evacuation centres almost three weeks after the storm.

More than 959,000 others have returned to the ruins of their homes or are staying with relatives. Dr. Martin Pareno, nutrition coordinator for Action Against Hunger International, said in a recent visit to the affected area he had seen people desperate for help. “It’s a heartrending thing.

There is no sign of Christmas in the whole area,” he told AFP. “The number one problem is shelter, clearing debris, sanitation. There is no electricity or water service. They will have to provide for that before any social activities.” — AFP

SEOUL: North Korea’s recent rocket launch amounted to the test of a ballistic missile capable of carrying a half-tonne payload as far as the US west coast, the South Korean defence ministry said yesterday.

North Korea launched its three-stage Unha-3 rocket on December 12, insisting it was a purely scientific mission aimed at putting a polar-orbiting satellite in space.

Yesterday’s estimate was based on analysis of an oxidiser container-recovered from the rocket’s first-stage splashdown site-which stored red fuming nitric acid to fuel the firststage propellant.

“Based on our analysis and simulation, the missile is capable of flying more than 10,000 kilometres with a warhead of 500-600 kilograms,” a defence ministry official told reporters. The estimated range of 10,000 kilometres (6,200 miles) covers the whole of Asia, eastern Europe and western Africa as well as Alaska and a large part of the US west coast including San Francisco.

Without any debris from the second and third stages to analyse, the official said it could not be determined if the rocket had reentry capability-a key element of inter-continental ballistic missile (ICBM) technology.

Most of the world saw the North’s rocket launch as a disguised ballistic missile test that violates UN resolutions imposed after Pyongyang conducted nuclear tests in 2006 and 2009.

The success of the launch was seen as a major strategic step forward for the isolated North, although missile experts differed on the level of ballistic capability demonstrated by the rocket. The debris collected by the South Koreans was made of an alloy of aluminium and magnesium with eight panels welded manually.

“Welding was crude, done manually,” the ministry official said, adding that oxidiser containers for storing toxic chemicals are rarely used by countries with advanced space technology. The South’s navy later recovered

YELLOW SEA: This handout photo received from South Korea’s Defence Ministry yesterday shows debris from North Korea’s rocket launch on December 12 on the deck of a South Korean Navy vessel in the Yellow Sea. The South’s navy later recovered three more pieces of the rocket — a fuel tank, a combustion chamber and an engine connection rod. — AFP three more pieces of the rocket-a fuel tank, a combustion chamber and an engine connection rod-from the Yellow Sea and has been analysing them since Friday, Yonhap news agency said yesterday.

“As additional pieces have been salvaged, we will be able to look deeper into the function and structure of North Korea’s long-range rocket,” said a defence ministry official quoted

by Yonhap.

The communist North apparently timed the widely-condemned launch to mark the first anniversary of the death of its longtime ruler Kim Jong-Il and drum up more support for his son and successor, Kim Jong-Un.

Australian DJs could face prosecution

Fire destroys market in Afghan capital KABUL: A huge fire swept through a market in downtown Kabul yesterday, destroying hundreds of shops and forcing the cityís nearby money exchange to evacuate, police and witnesses said.

There were no reports of any casualties in the early morning blaze which destroyed most of the cloth market’s 500 shops, Kabul fire department officials told AFP. A fire department official speaking on condition of anonymity said an electrical short circuit was the most likely cause of the fire, which was so severe that NATO and Afghan army fire squads were called in to help.

“We are all working together to get this under control,î the official said. An

AFP photographer at the scene said the fire had reduced hundreds of shops to charcoal. A Kabul police official who also spoke under condition of anonymity told AFP separately that the nearby currency exchange market, the war-torn countryís largest, had to be evacuated as the fire approached its outer walls.

“Police helped the money market evacuate and remove their money from the market to safe places,’ he said. The Afghan capital, which is home to around five million people, has a poor fire safety reputation, though the fire department was upgraded with international help after the fall of the Taleban regime in a US-led invasion in late 2001. —AFP

KABUL: An Afghan firefighter walks through a market that was destroyed by a fire in Kabul yesterday. A huge fire swept through a market in downtown Kabul yesterday, destroying hundreds of shops and forcing the city’s nearby money exchange to evacuate, police and witnesses said. — AFP

Since the launch, Pyongyang’s propaganda machine has gone into overdrive to heap praise on the ruling Kim dynasty for leading the successful mission and to urge support for the young ruler who took over a year ago.

The nuclear-armed nation has awarded medals to 101 rocket scientists and technicians who worked on the launch, the official Korean Central News Agency said yesterday.

“By successfully launching satellite Kwangmyongsong 3-2, they instilled great national self-esteem... and dealt a sledgehammer blow at the hostile forces’ desperate moves to check the advance of (the North),” it said. — AFP

Emperor Akihito

Japan Emperor turns 79 TOKYO: Japanese Emperor Akihito turned 79 years old yesterday and reassured thousands of well-wishers that he has regained health since his heart bypass surgery in February. The softly-spoken monarch gave his birthday address to the public from a glass-covered balcony at the Imperial Palace overlooking the East Garden, filled with visitors braving the bitter cold and waving small Japanese flags. “In February, I had a heart surgery and worried many people. Please remain assured that I am now living normally like before,” he said in a brief speech.

Surgeons carried out the operation on February 18 — the emperor’s first since he was treated in 2003 for prostate cancer-after tests showed a narrowing of two of his coronary arteries. The fourhour operation went without a hitch.

During his birthday address, Akihito also said his thoughts were with those who have be unable to return to their homes since the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit northern Japan in March 2011. “There is only a little time left this year, which once again was a difficult year,” he said. “I plan to spend my time praying for the happiness of all of the Japanese public, particularly those who were affected by the disaster,” Akihito said.

The disaster crippled the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, which went through meltdowns and explosions, forcing tens of thousands of residents around the facility to abandon their homes, farmland, fishing boats and livestock. — AFP

LONDON: British prosecutors will decide whether to pursue charges against two Australian DJs, police said, after a nurse who took a hoax call to a hospital treating Prince William’s pregnant wife Kate apparently killed herself.

Scotland Yard said officers had this week sent a file to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) over the prank earlier this month by presenters Mel Greig and Michael Christian, from Sydney’s 2Day FM radio station.

Indian-born nurse Jacintha Saldanha, 46, was found hanged in her lodgings near King Edward VII’s Hospital in central London, where Catherine was being treated for acute morning sickness, on December 7.

“Following the death of Jacintha Saldanha, officers have liaised with the CPS as to whether any criminal offences had been committed in relation to the hoax call made to King Edward VII’s Hospital in the early hours of Tuesday, 4 December,” Scotland Yard said in a statement.

It said officers submitted a file to the CPS on Wednesday for it to consider whether any potential offences may have been committed by making the hoax call. British media said no announcement had been made until Saturday because police wanted to be sure they had contacted all the relevant family members of Saldanha.

In England and Wales, the CPS is responsible for deciding whether charges will proceed in criminal cases, while police are responsible for investigating and collecting evidence. At the nurse’s funeral in India on Monday, her widower Benedict Barboza and the couple’s two teenage children said British police were investigating the tragedy “and they have assured us of a full and fair investigation”.

A London inquest heard last week that Saldanha had been found hanged in staff accommodation and there were no suspicious circumstances over her death. She also had marks on her wrist.

Saldanha left three notes, one of

which reportedly criticised colleagues over her treatment at the hospital.

British detectives told the inquest they would be asking their counterparts in the Australian state of New South Wales to help them carry out interviews.

It was not immediately clear how British prosecutors could pursue foreigners for a possible offence originated outside Britain. Greig and Christian made tearful televised apologies for making the call, in which they posed as Queen Elizabeth II and William’s father Prince Charles and obtained private details of Kate’s medical condition.

Australian police say death threats have been made against the presenters. The station has cancelled the show which ran the segment, suspended all prank calls and pledged at least Aus$500,000 ($523,600) to help the grieving family.

Australia’s media watchdog has also opened an investigation into the call.

The hospital has defended itself, saying it offered support to Saldanha and had stressed to her she would not be disciplined for being taken in by what it described as a “cruel trick”.

But British lawmaker Keith Vaz, who has been campaigning on the family’s behalf, said the hospital had so far failed to fully answer a number of their questions.

He published letters he has sent to its chief executive, John Lofthouse, and to the radio station’s owners setting out dozens of detailed queries.

Relatives “still do not have any confirmation of the facts of exactly what happened”, he told Lofthouse, or “written confirmation of the answers” to previous questions.

He asked the radio station why there had allegedly been “no attempt to contact the family and offer support in any way”. William and Kate, who are expecting their first child, have also stressed that they did not make any complaint to the hospital about the fact that Saldanha had put through the prank call. — AFP

Hong Kong activist arrested 6 months after Hu protest HONG KONG: A member of a radical Hong Kong political opposition party yesterday said he had been arrested six months after throwing a t-shirt at Chinese President Hu Jintao’s motorcade. League of Social Democrats vicechairman Avery Ng told AFP he had been arrested on Saturday on a charge of public nuisance, after throwing the t-shirt bearing a drawing of the late Chinese dissident Li Wangyang on June 29.

Hu was visiting the former British colony to mark the 15th anniversary of

the territory’s handover and to preside over the city’s leadership change on July 1. “We were just exercising our basic human right to protest... and that was already being violated by the police,” Ng told AFP, saying that he threw his t-shirt because police confiscated demonstrators’ banners shortly before the motorcade’s arrival.

Police said they had arrested a 35year-old local man surnamed Ng on Saturday for a count of “nuisance crimes committed in a public place”. Ng was released on bail and will appear in

court today. He said he believed the government was attempting to hush opposition ahead of a mass anti-government protest planned for New Year’s Day. Protesters from various opposition groups plan to take to the streets on January 1 to air concerns over freedom of expression, which they fear is in decline due to increasing Chinese influence on the city, among other issues.

“The whole thing is politically motivated, there’s no question about it,” Ng told AFP, saying that his arrest would

not stop him from attending any future demonstrations. Police used pepper spray to disperse hundreds of protesters as they chanted anti-Beijing slogans on loudspeakers outside the five star hotel Hu was staying in on June 30.

Around 400,000 people took to the streets the next day to express their opposition to Hong Kong’s new chief executive Leung Chun-ying, who was sworn in by Hu, and to express their anger after 15 years of Chinese rule.

A government spokesman declined to respond to Ng’s comments, but said:

“Anyone can give opinions on various matters and the (Hong Kong) government fully respects the freedom of opinion of every individual.”

He added that freedom of expression and speech were “core values”.

The right to protest is one of the cherished freedoms enshrined in the “one country, two systems” model that has applied to Hong Kong since its return to Chinese rule in 1997.

The city of seven million people maintains a semi-autonomous status with its own legal and financial sys-

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

NEWS

Robots let employees ‘beam’ into workplace

Emirati men hold their falcons in the Liwa desert, 220 km west of Abu Dhabi, on the sidelines of the Mazayin Dhafra Camel Festival yesterday. The festival, which attracts participants from around the Gulf region, includes a camel beauty contest, a display of UAE handcrafts and other activities aimed at promoting the country’s folklore. — AFP

Protests over sex attacks rock India Continued from Page 1 India has seen a string of protests across the country in the wake of the Delhi gang-rape which has shone the spotlight on the frightening incidence of violence against women in India. National crime records show that 228,650 of the total 256,329 violent crimes recorded last year were against women. Delhi has been dubbed the rape capital of India with government figures showing the number of rapes in the city rising 17 percent to 661 this year.

The 23-year-old physiotherapy student, who has been battling for her life since the late-night assault on a bus, gave her first statement to police late Saturday in the hospital where she is being treated. “All six men took turns to sexually assault me,” the Hindustan Times newspaper quoted the victim as saying to police. “They threw us on the side of the road where I then fainted,” she added. Her answers appeared to confirm most of the details that officers had already managed to piece together from a statement by her 28-year-old male companion who was also assaulted and thrown off the vehicle.

All six of the alleged attackers have now been arrested and remanded in custody. Police say the six were drunk and were joy-riding in an off-duty bus with tinted windows when they picked up the unsuspecting pair who were returning from a night out at the cinema. The men then took turns in raping the student at the back of the bus, according to police and prosecutors. During her assault, the victim suffered serious intestinal injuries from being beaten with an iron rod.

The government, stung by the mass protests and criticism that victims of sex assaults are often let down by India’s notoriously slow justice system, has said it is considering bringing in the death penalty for the most extreme rape cases. Fearing more violent protests, police declared areas close to the president’s residence and the parliament off-limits yesterday and detained those who defied the prohibitory orders. All the

routes leading to landmark government buildings were cordoned off and metro stations in the vicinity were closed to the public. However, several hundred protesters managed to breach the cordon around India Gate and braved tear gas and water cannons for the second day in a row.

One of Delhi’s most senior police officers pleaded for an end to the unrest, saying the protests were being “hijacked by hooligans” and insisting that the case against the six was being fast-tracked. “We have met all the demands of the protesters,” Special Commissioner Dharmendra Kumar told the CNN-IBN news channel. Sushma Swaraj, a leader of the main opposition Bhartiya Janata Party, called for an all-party meeting to end the violence between protesters and the police.

“Please do not resort to violence. That is not the solution,” she wrote on Twitter.

On Saturday, several thousand college students rallied at the India Gate monument in the heart of the capital where they were baton-charged, water-cannoned and tear-gassed by police. One group of protesters camped overnight outside the residence of Sonia Gandhi, the leader of the main ruling Congress party. “I am with you... and justice will be delivered,” Gandhi told the protesters in an impromptu address after midnight. She went out again yesterday with her son Rahul Gandhi, who is seen as a future prime minister.

“She assured us of justice,” said one of the students who met the Gandhis. Some others, though, shouted “Down with Sonia Gandhi!” and accused politicians of indifference to the plight of ordinary citizens. “It’s time she (Sonia Gandhi) takes the bull by the horns and make this country safe for women.

Be it better policing or strongly penalising offenders,” said Rukmani Dutta, a final-year political science student at Delhi University. Protesters said they would continue to demonstrate until they get firm assurances from the government.

“Until and unless the government understands the pulse of the people and imposes strict action against these criminals, we will not relent,” said Sherry Kaur, a student at Indraprastha University, also in New Delhi. — Agencies

PALO ALTO, California: Engineer Dallas Goecker attends meetings, jokes with colleagues and roams the office building just like other employees at his company in Silicon Valley. But Goecker isn’t in California. He’s more than 2,300 miles away, working at home in Seymour, Indiana. It’s all made possible by the Beam - a mobile video-conferencing machine that he can drive around his company’s offices and workshops in Palo Alto. The five-foot-tall device, topped with a large video screen, gives him a physical presence that makes him and his colleagues feel like he’s actually there. “This gives you that casual interaction that you’re used to at work,” Goecker said, speaking on a Beam. “I’m sitting in my desk area with everybody else. I’m part of their conversations and their socializing.”

Suitable Technologies, which makes the Beam, is now one of more than a dozen companies that sell so-called telepresence robots. These remote-controlled machines are equipped with video cameras, speakers, microphones and wheels that allow users to see, hear, talk and “walk” in faraway locations. More and more employees are working remotely, thanks to computers, smartphones, email, instant messaging and video-conferencing. But those technologies are no substitute for actually being in the office, where casual face-to-face conversations allow for easy collaboration and camaraderie.

Telepresence-robot makers are trying to bridge that gap with wheeled machines - controlled over wireless Internet connections - that give remote workers a physical presence in the workplace. These robotic stand-ins are still a long way from going mainstream, with only a small number of organizations starting to use them. The machines can be expensive, difficult to navigate or even get stuck if they venture into areas with poor Internet connectivity. Stairs can be lethal, and non-techies might find them too strange to use regularly. “There are still a lot of questions, but I think the potential is really great,” said Pamela Hinds, co-director of Stanford University’s Center on Work, Technology, & Organization. “I don’t think face-to-face is going away, but the question is, how much face-to-face can be replaced by this technology?”

Technology watchers say these machines - sometimes called remote presence devices - could be used

for many purposes. They could let managers inspect overseas factories, salespeople greet store customers, family members check on elderly relatives or art lovers to tour foreign museums. Some physicians are already seeing patients in remote hospitals with the RP-VITA robot co-developed by Santa-Barbara, Calif.,based InTouch Health and iRobot, the Bedford, Massachusetts,-based maker of the Roomba vacuum.

The global market for telepresence robots is projected to reach $13 billion by 2017, said Philip Solis, research director for emerging technologies at ABI Research. The robots have attracted the attention of Russian venture capitalist Dimitry Grishin, who runs a $25 million fund that invests in early-stage robotics companies. “It’s difficult to predict how big it will be, but I definitely see a lot of opportunity,” Grishin said.

“Eventually it can be in each home and each office.”

His Grishin Robotics fund recently invested $250,000 in a startup called Double Robotics. The Sunnyvale, California,-company started selling a Segway-like device called the Double that holds an Apple iPad, which has a built-in video-conferencing system called FaceTime. The Double can be controlled remotely from an iPad or iPhone. So far, Double Robotics has sold more than 800 units that cost $1,999 each, said co-founder Mark DeVidts.

The Beam got its start as a side project at Willow Garage, a robotics company in Menlo Park where Goecker worked as an engineer. A few years ago, he moved back to his native Indiana to raise his family, but he found it difficult to collaborate with engineering colleagues using existing video-conferencing systems. “I was struggling with really being part of the team,” Goecker said. “They were doing all sorts of wonderful things with robotics. It was hard for me to participate.”

So Goecker and his colleagues created their own telepresence robot. The result: the Beam and a new company to develop and market it. At $16,000 each, the Beam isn’t cheap. But Suitable Technologies says it was designed with features that make “pilots” and “locals” feel the remote worker is physically in the room: powerful speakers, highly sensitive microphones and robust wireless connectivity. The company began shipping Beams last month, mostly to tech companies with widely dispersed engineering teams, officials said. — AP

PALO ALTO, California: Bo Preising, Suitable Technologies’ vice president of engineering (left), talks with fellow engineers Josh Faust (center on screen) and Josh Tyler (on screen at right), both using a Beam remote presence system on Dec 12, 2012. — AP

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

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Mexico catches up as Brazil boom falters

By Mauricio Rabuffetti 012 has been a study in contrasts as far as Latin America’s two biggest economies, Brazil and Mexico, are concerned. Brazil, which overtook Britain last year to become the world’s sixth largest economy, has been hit by weakening Chinese demand for commodities, while rival Mexico, the new darling of foreign investors, is posting increasingly strong growth. The figures speak for themselves. Brazil, for a decade Latin America’s unchallenged behemoth, is expected to grow a mere one percent this year, down from 2.7 percent in 2011 and a sizzling 7.5 percent in 2010, according to official figures.

By contrast, Mexico, the perennial underachiever in Latin America, is suddenly eying a position among the world’s 10 largest economies with projected growth of between 3.5 and four percent. Mexico took a massive hit from the 2007-2008 financial crisis, thanks in large part to its proximity to the United States, and its economy contracted a whopping six percent in 2009. But a huge reduction in Mexico’s “country cost” - the cost of doing business there - sparked an impressive turnaround that attracted investment in its industrial sector, created jobs and added value to its exports.

Sebastian Briozzo, head of sovereign ratings at Standard & Poor’s for Latin America, said the two countries have very different growth patterns. “Brazil is a closed economy, in which production grows based on internal demand, particularly domestic consumption and not so much on investment,” he told AFP. “Mexico on the other hand is more dependent on the US industrial sector.” Juan Jensen, head of macro-economics at Brazilian consulting firm Tendencias, attributed the slowdown in Brazil’s $2.5 trillion economy to a major loss of competitiveness reflected in salaries that far outpaced inflation.

“Brazil lost because of its higher production costs,” Jensen said, adding that the Brazilian government’s tolerance of higher inflation and opaque fiscal policy had been problematic. “This surely scared off (foreign) investors... who find other countries, including Mexico, with better prospects for good returns on their investment,” he said.

Mexico, which has built on NAFTA since 1994 and now does more than 90 percent of its foreign dealings under free trade agreements, continues to lower its production costs to compete, including with China. “Mexico continues to offer cheap labor, has an infrastructure for some ‘durable goods’ such as automobiles, computers and home appliances,” said Octavio Gutierrez, chief economist at BBVA bank in Mexico City. This enables it to quickly expand production for exports to the all-important US market and explains the relocation of industrial plants to Mexico as “one of the pillars” of the country’s development, he added. “The difference with Brazil has to do with costs. Mexico has increased unit labor costs much less than Brazil,” Gutierrez said.

Brazil has recorded a worrying fall in productive investment, down 4.5 percent, and a sharp 2.7 percent contraction in its industrial output, according to the National Confederation of Industry. Meanwhile, Mexico is reaping the benefit of a slow but steady pickup in demand for its products in the United States. Its industry grew 4.2 percent between January and September this year compared with the same period in 2011. Economists see the difference in foreign trade focus as the key factor that explains the contrasting performances of the Latin American rivals.

“Brazil is almost returning to its model of the 1960s, which was to look inward, to be more protectionist and to subsidize companies,” said Claudio Loser, the former director of the Western Hemisphere Department at the IMF who now heads the Latin American branch of the Centennial Group think tank. “I think Mexico has an economy which overall is much more efficient and better integrated with the world than that of Brazil, which rested a bit on its laurels,” he added.

Jensen agreed. “Mexico has opened its borders, signing free trade agreements, including with China. In so doing it imports cheap goods, adds value and re-exports these goods to the United States,” he said. “Brazil does the opposite: It closes itself, tries to produce locally and ends up producing more expensive goods which it has a hard time reexporting.” That said, Jensen still expected Brazil’s GDP to grow 3.2 percent next year as he foresaw a cut in taxes on industrial products and some sort of currency devaluation that should stoke interest in its industrial sector. —AFP

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The editor reserves the right to edit any submission as necessary.

Big Pharma cashes in on HGH abuse

By David B Caruso And Jeff Donn federal crackdown on illicit foreign supplies of human growth hormone has failed to stop rampant misuse, and instead has driven record sales of the drug by some of the world’s biggest pharmaceutical companies, an Associated Press investigation shows. The crackdown, which began in 2006, reduced the illegal flow of unregulated supplies from China, India and Mexico. But since then, Big Pharma has been satisfying the steady desires of US users and abusers, including many who take the drug in the false hope of delaying the effects of aging.

From 2005 to 2011, inflationadjusted sales of HGH were up 69 percent, according to an AP analysis of pharmaceutical company data collected by the research firm IMS Health. Sales of the average prescription drug rose just 12 percent in that same period.

Unlike other prescription drugs, HGH may be prescribed only for specific uses. US sales are limited by law to treat a rare growth defect in children and a handful of uncommon conditions like short bowel syndrome or Prader-Willi syndrome, a congenital disease that causes reduced muscle tone and a lack of hormones in sex glands.

The AP analysis, supplemented by interviews with experts, shows too many sales and too many prescriptions for the number of people known to be suffering from those ailments. At least half of last year’s sales likely went to patients not legally allowed to get the drug. And U.S. pharmacies processed nearly double the expected number of prescriptions. Peddled as an elixir of life capable of turning middle-aged bodies into lean machines, HGH a synthesized form of the growth hormone made naturally by the human pituitary gland - winds up in the eager hands of affluent, aging users who hope to slow or even reverse the aging process.

Experts say these folks don’t need the drug, and may be harmed by it. The supposed fountain-of-youth medicine can cause enlargement of breast tissue, carpal tunnel syndrome and swelling of hands and feet.

Ironically, it also can contribute to aging ailments like heart disease and Type 2 diabetes. Others in the medical establishment also are taking a fat piece of the profits doctors who fudge prescriptions, as well as pharmacists and distributors who are content to look the other way. HGH also is sold directly without prescriptions, as newage snake oil, to patients at antiaging clinics that operate more like automated drug mills.

A

Years of raids, sports scandals and media attention haven’t stopped major drugmakers from selling a whopping $1.4 billion worth of HGH in the US last year.

That’s more than industry-wide annual gross sales for penicillin or prescription allergy medicine.

Anti-ageing HGH regimens vary greatly, with a yearly cost typically ranging from $6,000 to $12,000 for three to six self-injections per week. Across the US, the medication is often dis-

companies are approved for the diabetes drug insulin. The No. 1 maker, Roche subsidiary Genentech, had nearly $400 million in HGH sales in the US last year, up an inflation-adjusted two-thirds from 2005. Pfizer and Eli Lilly were second and third with $300 million and $220 million in sales, respectively, according to IMS Health. Pfizer now gets more revenue from its HGH brand, Genotropin, than from Zoloft, its well-known depression

The oldest patients were in their 80s. Some of these medical records even give explicit hints of use to combat aging, justifying treatment with reasons like fatigue, bone thinning and “offlabel”, which means treatment of an unapproved condition Even Medicare, the government health program for older Americans, allowed 22,169 HGH prescriptions in 2010, a five-year increase of 78 percent, according to data released by the Centers for

Dr Mark Molitch of Northwestern University, who helped write medical standards meant to limit HGH treatment to legitimate patients, holds an injector pen that contains approximately a week’s worth of doses for a patient in need of the drug at his clinic on Dec 20, 2012 in Chicago. —AP pensed through prescriptions medicine that lost patent protec- Medicare and Medicaid Services in response to an AP public based on improper diagnoses, tion.

On their face, the numbers records request. “There’s no quescarefully crafted to exploit wiggle room in the law restricting use of make no sense to the recognized tion: a lot gets out,” said hormone hormone doctors known as specialist Dr Mark Molitch of HGH, the AP found.

HGH is often promoted on the endocrinologists who provide Northwestern University, who Internet with the same kind of legitimate HGH treatment to a helped write medical standards before-and-after photos found in small number of patients. meant to limit HGH treatment to miracle diet ads, along with wild- Endocrinologists estimate there legitimate patients. And those figly hyped claims of rapid muscle are fewer than 45,000 US patients ures don’t include HGH sold growth, loss of fat, greater vigor, who might legitimately take directly by doctors without preand other exaggerated benefits HGH. They would be expected to scriptions at scores of anti-aging to adults far beyond their physi- use roughly 180,000 prescrip- medical practices and clinics cal prime. Sales also are driven by tions or refills each year, given around the country. Those numthe personal endorsement of that typical patients get three bers could only be tallied by drug celebrities such as actress months’ worth of HGH at a time, makers, who have declined to say Suzanne Somers. Pharmacies according to doctors and distrib- how many patients they supply that once risked prosecution for utors. Yet US pharmacies last year and for what conditions.

First marketed in 1985 for chilusing unauthorized, foreign HGH supplied almost twice that much - improperly labeled as raw phar- HGH - 340,000 orders - according dren with stunted growth, HGH maceutical ingredients and to AP’s analysis of IMS Health was soon misappropriated by adults intent on exploiting its smuggled across the border - data.

While doctors say more than modest muscle- and bone-buildnow simply dispense name brands, often for the same 90 percent of legitimate patients ing qualities. Congress limited banned uses. And usually with are children with stunted growth, HGH distribution to the handful 40 percent of 442 US side-effect of rare conditions in an extraordiimpunity.

Eight companies have been cases tied to HGH over the last nary 1990 law, overriding the granted permission to market year involved people age 18 or generally unrestricted right of HGH by the US Food and Drug older, according to an AP analysis doctors to prescribe medicines as Administration, which reviews of FDA data. The average adult’s they see fit. Despite the law, illicit the benefits and risks of new age in those cases was 53, far HGH spread around the sports drug products. By contrast, three beyond the prime age for sports. world in the 1990s, making deep

inroads into bodybuilding, college athletics, and professional leagues from baseball to cycling.

The even larger banned market among older adults has flourished more recently.

FDA regulations ban the sale of HGH as an anti-aging drug. In fact, since 1990, prescribing it for things like weight loss and strength conditioning has been punishable by 5 to 10 years in prison. Steve Kleppe, of Scottsdale, Arizona, a restaurant entrepreneur who has taken HGH for almost 15 years to keep feeling young, said he noticed a price jump of about 25 percent after the block on imports. He now buys HGH directly from a doctor at an annual cost of about $8,000 for himself and the same amount for his wife.

Many older patients go for HGH treatment to scores of antiaging practices and clinics heavily concentrated in retirement states like Florida, Nevada, Arizona and California. These sites are affiliated with hundreds of doctors who are rarely endocrinologists.

Instead, many tout certification by the American Board of AntiAging and Regenerative Medicine, though the medical establishment does not recognize the group’s bona fides. The clinics offer personalized programs of “age management” to business executives, affluent retirees, and other patients of means, sometimes coupled with the amenities of a vacation resort.

The operations insist there are few, if any, side effects from HGH. Mainstream medical authorities say otherwise.

A 2007 review of 31 medical studies showed swelling in half of HGH patients, with joint pain or diabetes in more than a fifth. A French study of about 7,000 people who took HGH as children found a 30 percent higher risk of death from causes like bone tumors and stroke, stirring a health advisory from US authorities. For proof that the drug works, marketers turn to images like the memorable one of pot-bellied septuagenarian Dr Jeffry Life, supposedly transformed into a ripped hulk of himself by his own program available at the upscale Las Vegas-based Cenegenics Elite Health. (He declined to be interviewed.)

These promoters of HGH say there is a connection between the drop-off in growth hormone levels through adulthood and the physical decline that begins in late middle age. Replace the hormone, they say, and the aging process slows. “It’s an easy ruse. People equate hormones with youth,” said Dr Tom Perls, a leading industry critic who does aging research at Boston University. “It’s a marketing dream come true.”—AP

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

sp orts Pietersen rested for NZ ODIs

Barca coach out of hospital

LONDON: Prolific batsman Kevin Pietersen has been left out of England’s limited-overs squad for next year’s New Zealand tour as part of a policy to better manage the workload of players, the country’s cricket board said yesterday.

Former skipper Pietersen, who will play in the five-match one-day international series in India next month, will not be part of the three Twenty20 internationals and three ODIs in New Zealand. Meanwhile, James Anderson, Jonathan Trott and Graeme Swann were named in the ODI squad after being rested for the five-match series against India, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) said in a statement. “There are a number of players who we have decided not to select... as we look to manage their workloads effectively while ensuring we remain competitive across all formats,” national selector Geoff Miller said. “We feel this is the best way of keeping players as physically and mentally fresh as possible during a demanding 2013 and beyond. “Kevin Pietersen will miss the limitedovers tour of New Zealand with Graeme Swann missing the T20 leg of the tour. “This approach also provides an opportunity for talented young players to gain more international experience which will be important for their development and the development of England sides in the future.” —Reuters

MADRID: Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova was released from hospital on Saturday, two days after undergoing surgery on his saliva glands, the La Liga club said. “Given his post-operation development, Tito Vilanova has been released from hospital this Saturday afternoon,” Barca said in a brief statement on their website (www.fcbarcelona.com).

“The Barca coach had surgery on Thursday according to plan,” the statement added. Barca announced on Wednesday that Villanova needed a second round of surgery following an operation to remove a tumour from his saliva glands in November 2011. The latest procedure would be followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy over the next six weeks and assistant coach Jordi Roura would step in until Vilanova was well enough to return, the club said. The 44-year-old was sidelined for around three weeks after the surgery last year before returning to his job as assistant to Pep Guardiola and then taking over from his close friend at the end of last season.

Under his leadership, Barca have made a record-breaking start to their La Liga campaign and top the standings with a sixpoint lead over second-placed Atletico Madrid ahead of their game at Real Valladolid on Saturday. —Reuters

Hodgson: World Cup win not impossible LONDON: Winning a second World Cup title in Brazil in 2014 should not be impossible for England, manager Roy Hodgson said yesterday. “We’re far from being favourites but you’ve got to shy away from ‘impossible’ in football,” Hodgson told the BBC. Hodgson, appointed on May 1 on a four-year contract, used Chelsea’s Champions League win in the same month as an example of how unpredictable football was. “There are plenty of events in football that you could have said were impossible but people have done it. “It wasn’t likely that Chelsea would become champions of Europe, especially having to change their manager mid-stream but they did it. That was by beating Barcelona and Bayern Munich - two of the best teams in Europe, so I’d like to keep that dream alive.” England reached the quarter-finals of the European championship this year but lost on penalties to Italy and have failed to get past the last eight of a major tournament since Euro 1996, when they made the semi-finals on home soil.

The 1966 World Cup winners have a battle on their hands to make it to Brazil as they are second in Group H, two points behind Montenegro after four games and with six fixtures remaining in 2013. —Reuters

Heat silence Jazz

THIES: Student athletes of the SEEDS Academy (Sport for Education and Economic Development), a free basketball-focused boarding school in Thies, Senegal, take part in a practice session. — AFP

Shooting hoops at Senegal’s Academy THIES: In Senegal, a basketball academy has been fighting for 10 years to provide an education for youngsters passionate about the sport. Hard work, disciplineand the orange ball-are at the heart of the Seeds Academy, set up by the vicepresident of the National Basketball Association (NBA), Amadou Gallo Fall, who is in charge of developing the sport in Africa.

The Sports for Education and Economic Development in Senegal Academy-to give it its full name-is based at the National Centre of Physical and Sporting Education (CNEPS) in Thies, 70 kilometres (43 miles) east of the capital Dakar.

Here, timekeeping is a serious business, said the centre’s manager Assane Badji while waiting for the bus that takes the students back to school for lunch.

“When they see me as they get off the bus, they know that they shouldn’t hang about,” he added standing outside the entrance to CNEPS. “It’s important. They should all know that they don’t have the time to play around and discipline starts by respecting the timetable.” Respect and discipline are two values advocated by the academy’s founder Amadou Gallo Fall, a 49-year-old Senegalese who himself benefitted from a push in the right direction at the end of the 1980s.

At the time, he was a student basketball player in Tunisia and was noticed by an American, allowing him to go and study to the United States. His career as a player was cut short at university by a wrist injury but he managed to find a job at the heart of the US basketball league, the NBA. He worked as a recruiter for the Dallas Mavericks then was put in charge of promoting the game in Africa. Since 2010, he has been the head of development in Africa for the NBA and wanted to give young Senegalese the chance that he had. In 2002, Amadou Gall Fall threw himself into the creation of the Seeds

Academy, aiming to find young Senegalese from across the country to offer them the chance to be part of a structure that would take care of all their school and sports needs.

“In return, they had to be high achievers at school to stand a chance of going to a US college or university. That’s the deal,” said Fall’s brother, Cheikh Fall.

Seeds Academy has about 30 students from aged 14-15 to 18 and its programme is tough.

The students get up at 5:00 am and train until 7:00 am. Breakfast and lessons follow at the Saint Gabriel Roman Catholic centre-one of the most academic in Thies-with lights out late after more training and homework.

“We don’t have a minute’s respite,” confirmed Youssoupha Birama Fall, a 2.21 metres (7ft 2.5in) 17-year-old who is a recent African under-18 champion with Senegal.

“We have lessons and training until 11:00 pm. We don’t have time to play or think about anything other than studying and basketball.” The academy does not receive local or national funding but is instead financed by Amadou Gallo Fall through US donations.

“We need $170,000 (nearly 135,000 euros) for a full year,” added Chiekh Fall.

“We have five full-time staff, including coaches, and we pay for everything: private education, meals, accommodation, everything.”

In 10 years, the Seeds Academy has sent about 40 young basketball players to study in the United States. Even though only one has managed to make the NBA-former New York Knicks centre Mouhamed Saer Sene-the others are currently students or graduates.

That is a payback for Assane Badji, the academy’s manager. “It’s a great source of pride for me,” he beams. “We make them work hard here. They often come from very poor backgrounds and when we see what they become, we’re very happy.” — AFP

Top teams set for fistful of Christmas matchups LOS ANGELES: Kobe Bryant will stretch his NBA record for most Christmas games played and the New York Knicks will make a record 48th appearance on the holiday as part of five NBA games set for December 25.

The matchups, available to fans in 47 languages over 215 nations, begin at 1700 GMT with Boston at Brooklyn followed by the Knicks at Los Angeles to face Bryant and the Lakers.

Oklahoma City will visit Miami in a rematch of last season’s NBA Finals followed by the Houston Rockets, featuring Asian-American star Jeremy Lin, at Chicago and the final game will find Denver at the Los Angeles Clippers.

Excluding Americans, there will be 23 players from 16 nations competing on Christmas, including Spain’s Pau Gasol for the Lakers, Britain’s Luol Deng for Chicago and Frenchman Ronny Turiaf of the Clippers. Canada’s injured Steve Nash is also expected to

make a Christmas return for the Lakers. The Knicks, who lead the Eastern Conference at 19-6, will extend their record Christmas appearance run, a tradition New York helped tip off in 1947. The Knicks own the most Christmas triumphs with 22, two ahead of the Lakers.

It will be the 39th Christmas game for the Lakers and 29th for Boston.

Bryant’s personal mark was set last year, moving him past the 13 Christmas games played by Dolph Schayes, Earl Monroe and Shaquille O’Neal. Bryant needs 28 points to match the Christmas career scoring mark of 377 points owned by Oscar Robertson.

In all, 217 NBA games have been played on Christmas entering this year’s matchups. The highest-scoring Christmas performance was 60 points

by Bernard King for the Knicks over the New Jersey Nets in 1984. — AFP

MIAMI: LeBron James scored 30 points, Dwyane Wade added 21 points and seven assists, and the Miami Heat rode the strength of a big thirdquarter run to beat the Utah Jazz 105-89 on Saturday night.

James added nine rebounds and seven assists for the Eastern Conference-leading Heat, who won their fourth straight game and next play on Christmas against Oklahoma City in a rematch of last season’s NBA Finals. Shane Battier scored 15 and Ray Allen added 13 for Miami, which opened the second half on a 22-6 run to build a 69-49 lead.

Marvin Williams scored 16 for Utah, which got 15 from Gordon Hayward and 11 from Paul Millsap. The Jazz played the second half without Mo Williams, who appeared to hurt his right thumb. Miami was without Chris Bosh, home with what the team said was a cold.

James has scored at least 20 points in all 24 Heat games this season, matching the longest run of 20-or-more efforts to start a year since Karl Malone did it for Utah in the 1989-90 campaign. It also was the 29th straight regular-season game in which James scored at least 20 points and 45th consecutive overall. James also didn’t get called for a personal foul for a sixth straight game.

Lakers 118, Warriors 115 In Oakland, Kobe Bryant had 34 points and 10 rebounds, Steve Nash finished with 12 points and nine assists in his first game in almost two months, and Los Angeles rallied from 14 points down in the fourth quarter to beat Golden State in overtime.

Metta World Peace and Nash each made a go-ahead 3-pointer in the final minutes of regulation before the Warriors came back. World Peace scored 20 points, and Nash converted a step-back shot for the final points in overtime to lift Los Angeles to its fourth straight victory.

Jarrett Jack scored 29 points and David Lee had 20 points and 11 rebounds in a disappointing collapse for Golden State, which had won 11 of 14 games to get off to its best start in 20 years.

The 38-year-old Nash missed the previous 24 games because of a small fracture in his lower left leg. He was injured in the second game of the season, the former Phoenix star’s first with the Lakers. Bryant made three quick jumpers in overtime, including a fadeaway that put Los Angeles ahead by four. He has scored at least 30 points in eight straight games. The matchup marked the first time the Warriors faced the Lakers with a better record through at least 25 games since April 23, 1994.

Nuggets 110, Bobcats 88 In Denver, Kosta Koufos scored a season-high 16 points, and Kenneth Faried and Andre Iguodala added 15 points apiece as Denver sent Charlotte to its 15th consecutive loss.

JaVale McGee added 14 points, and Danilo Gallinari had 12 for Denver, which won its sixth in a row at home since its only loss there - 98-93 to Miami on Nov. 15. Charlotte, playing the second of a back-to-back set on the road, was without injured guards Gerald Henderson and Ben Gordon. Ramon Sessions had 23 points to lead Charlotte. Byron Mullens added 16.

Hawks 92, Bulls 75 In Atlanta, Al Horford had 20 points and 10 rebounds, and every Atlanta starter scored in double figures as the Hawks routed Chicago to snap a two-game losing streak.

Lou Williams added 16 points in his first start, and the Atlanta native led the way as the Hawks outscored the Bulls 61-33 in the second and third quarters combined.

Luol Deng paced Chicago with 11 points, but the Bulls (15-11) couldn’t build on its 110-106 victory over the Knicks in New York on Friday.

The Hawks (16-9), however, bounced back from a poor fourth-quarter performance in a 99-80 loss at Philadelphia.

Atlanta starters outscored Chicago’s starters 72-39 in Hawks coach Larry Drew’s 100th victory (100-73). Williams started at shooting guard, but began the second quarter playing point guard in place of starter Jeff Teague. Williams had 11 points in the period as the Hawks outscored the Bulls 25-6 over the final 6:58.

Pistons 96, Wizards 87 In Washington, Charlie Villanueva scored 19 points, Rodney Stuckey added 18, and Detroit earned its second win in two nights over Washington. The Pistons have won consecutive games only twice this season. Detroit grabbed a season-high 58 rebounds for the second straight night.

The Wizards, who trailed throughout, have lost seven straight and are an NBA-worst 3-22.

Washington got within 88-81 with 6:15 to play, but didn’t score for nearly four minutes as Detroit stretched its advantage to 94-81 with 2:55 left.

Jordan Crawford, who scored his only point of the first half with 1:05 to play, scored 20 after halftime to lead Washington with 21 overall.

Emeka Okafor scored 14 points and tied a season high with 14 rebounds.

DENVER: Nuggets forward Kenneth Faried (center) goes up for a shot between Charlotte Bobcats center Byron Mullens (left) and Bismack Biyombo, of the Republic of Congo, in the third quarter of the Nuggets’ 110-88 victory in an NBA basketball game. — AP Rockets 121, Grizzlies 96 In Houston, James Harden scored 31 points with eight assists, and Houston earned its third straight win by topping Memphis. The Grizzlies entered the game allowing an NBA-low 89.2 points a game. But they had no answer for Harden. He did all his scoring in the first three quarters and reached at least 20 points for an eighth straight game.

Houston used a big run midway through the second quarter to take the lead, and didn’t trail after that to break a four-game winning streak by the Grizzlies. Mike Conley had 16 points for the Grizzlies on a night when leading scorer Rudy Gay finished with a season-low six points.

Memphis hadn’t allowed 100 points since the Clippers scored 101 in the season-opener - an NBA-best streak of 23 games. The Rockets needed just over three quarters to reach the mark with a free throw by Jeremy Lin with 9 1-2 minutes left. It was the Rockets’ 13th straight home victory over the Grizzlies. Memphis hasn’t won in Houston since April 2006. Lin added 15 points and 11 assists, and Marcus Morris scored 16 points.

Pacers 81, Hornets 75 In New Orleans, David West scored 20 of his 25 points in the second half and Indiana overcame a 22-point deficit to hand New Orleans its 11th straight loss. Paul George steadied Indiana in the first half with 11 points, and finished with 17 to help the Pacers win for the seventh time in eight games. Robin Lopez had 24 points and 11 rebounds for the Hornets, stuck in their worst stretch since December 2004. Greivis Vasquez added 14 points, and Anthony Davis had 10.

After the Hornets took a 46-24 lead, the Pacers outscored them 57-29 - including 24-7 in the third quarter. West scored his 10,000th career point midway through the third quarter.

Cavaliers 94, Bucks 82 In Milwaukee, Dion Waiters scored 18 points and Cleveland snapped a six-game losing streak by beating Milwaukee. CJ Miles added 16 points, and Kyrie Irving had 15 for the Cavaliers, who played without starting center Anderson Varejao for the third straight game because of a bruised right knee. Monta Ellis had a season-high 37 points for Milwaukee. The Bucks had won the previous nine games against the Cavaliers.

Trail Blazers 96, Suns 93 In Portland, JJ Hickson had 19 points and 15 rebounds for his seventh straight double-double, and Portland defeated Phoenix for its fifth straight win. Rookie Damian Lillard had 25 points, including 18 in the second half.

Sasha Pavolic and Lillard made consecutive 3pointers as Portland pulled in front 92-85 with 4:02 left. The Suns got to within 94-91 on Marcin Gortat’s layup with 1:24 to go.

After Lillard’s 19-foot, step-back jumper, Jared Dudley had a layup for the Suns to make it 96-93. Phoenix furiously tried to get a shot off in the final seconds, but Goran Dragic missed a 3pointer, and Shannon Brown missed a short jumper.

Gortat had 18 points and nine rebounds for the Suns, who led by as many as 12 points in the first half. The loss snapped a four-game winning streak for Phoenix. The Blazers haven’t won five straight since February 2011. — AP

NBA results/standings Detroit 96, Washington 87; Atlanta 92, Chicago 75; Miami 105, Utah 89; Indiana 81, New Orleans 75; Houston 121, Memphis 96; Cleveland 94, Milwaukee 82; Denver 110, Charlotte 88; Portland 96, Phoenix 93; La Lakers 118, Golden State 115 (OT).

Eastern Conference Atlantic Division W L PCT GB NY Knicks 19 7 .731 Brooklyn 13 12 .520 5.5 Boston 13 13 .500 6 Philadelphia 13 14 .481 6.5 Toronto 9 19 .321 11 Central Division Chicago 15 11 .577 Indiana 16 12 .571 Milwaukee 14 12 .538 1 Detroit 9 21 .300 8 Cleveland 6 23 .207 10.5 Southeast Division Miami 18 6 .750 Atlanta 16 9 .640 2.5 Orlando 12 14 .462 7 Charlotte 7 20 .259 12.5 Washington 3 22 .120 15.5

Western Conference Northwest Division Oklahoma City 21 5 .808 Minnesota 13 11 .542 Denver 15 13 .536 Portland 13 12 .520 Utah 14 14 .500 Pacific Division LA Clippers 20 6 .769 Golden State 18 10 .643 LA Lakers 13 14 .481 Phoenix 11 16 .407 Sacramento 8 18 .308 Southwest Division Memphis 18 7 .720 San Antonio 20 8 .714 Houston 14 12 .538 Dallas 12 15 .444 New Orleans 5 22 .185

7 7 7.5 8 3 7.5 9.5 12 0 4.5 7 14

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

sp orts

An ugly year in sports — or was it?

NEW YORK: Good riddance, 2012. The year that almost was left us with a string of hideous story lines. From the ongoing repulsiveness of the sexual abuse scandal at Penn State to Lance Armstrong being stripped of his Tour de France titles for injecting himself with everything but the kitchen sink.

There was the New Orleans Saints’ cash-for-hits bounty scandal, and Commissioner Roger Goodell being slapped down by his predecessor for the way he handled the whole thing. And the sad, sad plights that emerge almost every day from exfootball players who took far too many blows to the head while playing America’s most popular sport. Those were the top four in The Associated Press’ annual survey of the year’s sport stories.

Thanks a lot, 2012. Your legacy is pain and misery - if we allow it to be. This year could be a turning point on so many vital fronts. Maybe when we reflect back years from now, we’ll remember 2012 as a time when we decided sexual abuse was no longer an embarrassing problem to be swept under the rug, that doping was a scourge we needed to address no matter who it took down, that football players must be taken care of physically and emotionally if our national sport is to survive.

If we could pick one figure who we hope will

epitomize this year more than any other, it would be Cy Young Award-winning pitcher R.A. Dickey. A journeyman who became a star in his late 30s after taking up the knuckleball. A victim of childhood sexual abuse who summoned the courage to talk about his plight in a candid autobiography.

Someone who triumphed in the end after all the pain.

“One of the hopes I have for the book is that people will be able to draw something from it that might be able to help them,” Dickey said during spring training after it was published, “whether it’s to talk about it more, to not be afraid, to be open with what’s happened, that there are people available that will love you no matter what.”

That would be a worthy legacy for 2012. Of course, it’s terrible what happened at Penn State, which was voted the top sports story for the second year in a row. But who knows how many kids will be saved in the years to come because the next time a child is raped in the shower by a dirty old man, the police will surely be called.

Pennsylvania Attorney General Linda Kelly spoke hopefully of the guilty verdict against Jerry Sandusky persuading “other victims of abuse to come forward.”

And that’s a good thing. Of course, it’s shock-

Michael Phelps

ing to learn of the lengths Armstrong was willing to go to away from his bike, all to make sure he climbed to the top step of the podium on the Champs-Elysees year after year. But who knows how many future cyclists will decide it’s not worth the risk of getting caught or having to deal with the inner turmoil of knowing they are a cheat.

“Our mission is to protect clean athletes by preserving the integrity of competition not only for today’s athletes but also the athletes of tomorrow,” US anti-doping chief Travis Tygart wrote in the voluminous case file against Armstrong. And that’s a good thing.

Of course, the Saints scandal exposed the dirty little secret in the NFL that apparently wasn’t much of a secret to those who play the game, the idea that money changes hands when someone doles out a hit that leave the other guys crumpled on the turf. While former commissioner Paul Tagliabue overturned the punishments against four players, he doled out enough blame that one can only hope this is the last time we hear of anyone using the word “bounty” or intentionally trying to hurt someone.

And that’s a good thing. Of course, it’s heartbreaking to see former greats of the gridiron, like the late Alex Karras, withering away in their golden years, unable to recognize friends and loved

ones because the game they played turned their brains into mush. But everyone from the NFL to Pop Warner leagues finally seem to be addressing this wrenching issue, providing a glimmer of hope that future generations will be better protected.

“He is interested in making the game of football safer,” Karras’ actress-wife, Susan Clark, told the AP a few months before he died, “and hoping that other families of retired players will have a healthier and happier retirement.”

And that’s a good thing. Oh, sure, there were some triumphant tales from these last 12 months.

The London Olympics were a sight to behold.

Michael Phelps went out in splash of glory, Usain Bolt blazed down the track, Gabby Douglas and Missy Franklin stole our hearts.

LeBron James finally claimed a ring after a season that even his critics had to concede was one of the most dazzling in NBA history. The San Francisco Giants kept us up late at night, winning baseball playoff games in the most unfathomable of ways. Quarterback Peyton Manning made an inspiring comeback from career-threatening injuries, leading Denver to a division title. All were events worth celebrating. But they’re unlikely to have the far-reaching impact of those that made us cringe. Now, if we can do better, maybe 2012 won’t be such a bad year after all. —AP

Andy Murray

Tears and smiles by the billion at London Games LONDON: Britain spent nearly nine billion pounds ($14.42 billion) to create a magical and ambitious wonderland of venues for the 2012 Olympic Games, where fans were thrilled across a capital whose grime and grandeur alike got a makeover of global glamour.

The Games proved a timely shot in the arm, spiritually if not financially, for a bruised nation struggling with economic recession. The government, citing figures that were all but unmeasurable, said they would even deliver monetary benefits, to the tune of some $20 billion, though others were sceptical.

As for sport, the cash delivered a gold rush of medals for the somewhat startled hosts - placing them third, their best result since 1920, if well behind the table-topping United States and China, which returned to the number two spot after dominating its home Games in Beijing four years earlier. More importantly, though, the July and August Games gave Britain — and Britishness — a reputational boost, at home and abroad, at a time when few who are younger than the 86-year-old Queen Elizabeth can recall its days of imperial glory.

Instead, 2012 showcased a new, modern London as a tolerant, welcoming and multicultural city. Britain delivered, or, as the otherwise rather beleaguered Prime Minister David Cameron put it after the Games: “We showed the world what we’re made of; we reminded ourselves of what we could do.”

Many overseas agreed. Recalling prophecies of doom, about terror and traffic and Londoners’ deep reserves of cynicism and, well, reserve, Italy’s Corriere della Sera declared: “Thank you, London - A lesson to the pessimists ... When it comes to parties, festivals and ceremonies, no-one can match the British.”

“The neo-British...are emotional,” marvelled the Italians, traditional champions in the heart-on-sleeve stakes. “They feel the tension beforehand; they weep on the podium and watching the television; they put down their beer and hug their neighbor.”

What the investment left behind was an unforgettable sporting tapestry of tears, drama and raw emotion played out against backdrops from Buckingham Palace to a grand new stadium where factory hulks once blighted the blitz-scarred East End. These were the Games that Olympic chief Jacques Rogge called “happy and glorious”, echoing Britain’s national anthem “God Save the Queen” as Elizabeth celebrated 60 years on the throne.

They opened with seven young, unknown athletes lighting the cauldron and had as their motto “Inspire a Generation”. As he closed the Games, Rogge said: “The human legacy will reach every region of the world.

Many young people will be inspired to take up a sport or to pursue their dreams.” The 2012 Olympics proved the perfect stage for the world’s fastest man Usain Bolt, who became the first man to defend the 100 and 200 metres double on the running track.

As he accelerated to the 200 title, Bolt put his finger to his lips — silencing the doubters. With his Jamaican team mates, he went on to a “double treble”, breaking the world record to retain the 4x100 metres relay title.

“I came here to become a legend and I am now,” Bolt told Reuters before an early-hours turn as a nightclub DJ. “I’ve got nothing left to prove. I’ve shown the world I’m the best.”

In the pool the supremacy issue was resolved emphatically when Michael Phelps swam to a status as the most decorated Olympian with 22 medals, 18 of them gold. His victory set off a debate about whether that meant he was the world’s greatest.

Phelps, too, had nothing left to prove and promptly quit the sport. “It’s kind of weird, it’s very strange, the first day of not having to swim and never having it again,” the American told Reuters. “I’m not sure right now how I feel. It’s really confusing.”

There was no confusion on the subject of sporting domination, though, with the US finishing the Games on top of the medals table. Having trailed China in Beijing, the Americans beat the Chinese into second place with a haul of 46 golds among their 104 medals.

China won 38 golds and 87 in all. “We like to come in first,” US Olympic Committee chief Scott Blackmun said.

“And there is nothing wrong with that.”

The London Olympics were a party for the world, marshalled by Britain’s soldiers, sailors and airmen, after a private security contractor caused a scandal two weeks before the start by announcing it would not be able to provide enough guards.

The military solution proved a masterstroke as 18,000 troops flooded Olympic venues, leaving fans comforted by their professionalism and impressed by their cheerful good humor.

Oscar winner Danny Boyle’s quirky opening ceremony, featuring a playful — and first — cinematic perform-

Bradley Wiggins

David Rudisha

ance by the Queen herself, alongside James Bond actor Daniel Craig, captivated the world and set the stage for a spectacular Games.

Britain’s Olympians took up the baton to finish third, ahead of traditionally mighty Russia, with 29 golds across the field. Fresh from Britain’s first win in the Tour de France, Bradley Wiggins, a fashion throwback to the 1960s Mod era, won the men’s cycling time trial early on. His gold gave him seven career medals, more than any other British Olympian.

British success snowballed. Jessica Ennis dominated the heptathlon and became a national heroine overnight, along with Somali-born 5,000 and 10,000 metres double winner Mo Farah. His hands-on-pate “Mobot”, an M-for-Mo victory salute, rivalled Bolt’s arrow gesture for most emulated pose in souvenir snaps.

Kenya’s David Rudisha smashed the 800 metres world record to win gold in one minute 40.91 — a run that Games chief Sebastian Coe, himself a former

Olympic middle-distance champion, called the “standout performance” of London 2012.

Not since topping the table — in London - in 1908 had Britain won so many golds. One went to Nicola Adams; with a dazzling smile and down-to-earth Yorkshire grace, the 29-year-old gave the performance of her life to win women’s boxing’s first Olympic final.

London was also the first Games to feature women from every nation, as the remaining Arab states who had resisted abandoning their all-male team rosters relented under pressure.

Women’s soccer got a major boost and a crowd of more than 80,000 attended a memorable, magical final where the US beat Japan 2-1 for a third successive gold.

On the men’s side, five-times World Cup winners Brazil were left seeking the one major title to elude them when they were beaten by Mexico.

Andy Murray put Wimbledon heartbreak behind him to win tennis gold with a breathtaking thrashing of Roger Federer, a victory that prefaced his first grandslam title at the US Open five weeks later.

Britain ruled the velodrome and Chris Hoy wept tears of joy as the hosts ended their Olympic track cycling campaign with seven titles. Other tears were shed in bitterness. South Korea’s Shin A-Lam wept for an hour on the fencing piste after a timing quirk denied her the place in the final she thought she had secured.

Top-seeded Chinese badminton player Yu Yang quit the sport altogether in despair after being sent home following a tactical “play-to-lose” scandal: “You have heartlessly shattered our dreams. It’s that simple,” she said. “This is unforgivable.” Regardless, China completed a sweep of all five badminton gold, but the treatment of the women, and a whispering campaign about doping against swimming sensation Ye Shiwen angered the Chinese. “There are double standards that have taken aim at the Chinese team and its athletes,” said The People’s Daily.

One American who contributed to their gold collection, and at the same time won hearts the world over, was 16-year-old “flying squirrel” Gabby Douglas who became the first African American to win the women’s all-around gymnastics crown.

“I was kind of America’s sweetheart leading into the Games, which made me feel so good, you know, that America loved me,” she grinned. America’s giants of the NBA beat an inspired Spain to retain the Olympic basketball title. Kevin Durant led the way with 30 points.

South Korea’s women extended their archery domination by winning their seventh consecutive Olympic team title and took the individual gold for the seventh time in eight Olympics.

Another constant, at these Games at least, was the British monarchy; the royals popped up at venues everywhere - none more so than at the equestrian where the Queen’s grand-daughter Zara Phillips won silver in eventing, then was presented with the medal by her own mother, former Olympic rider Princess Anne.

The war on doping was fought fiercely; 12 competitors were expelled or left the Games for violations, while Belarussian shot putter Nadzeya Ostapchuk was stripped of her gold and Uzbek wrestler Soslan Tigiev had his bronze medal taken back.

Former anti-doping chief Dick Pound said the message was clear, at least every four years: “I would not expect many cases at the Olympics,” he said. “Because if you test positive here, you fail not a drugs test but an IQ test.” What began with a quirky mish-mash of an opening ceremony ended with a thumping celebration of London and British music. The Spice Girls and George Michael sang. So too did The Who, with their global anthem for the future “My Generation”, and Queen - though not the monarch this time, just the band. — Reuters

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

S P ORT S

Clarke in fitness battle as Aussies face pace choice MELBOURNE: Skipper Michael Clarke is racing the clock to be fit for the Boxing Day Test against Sri Lanka as selectors mull whether Mitchell Johnson or Jackson Bird will be Australia’s third pace bowler.

Clarke has been treating a right hamstring strain suffered in Australia’s 137-run win over the tourists in last week’s first Test at Hobart, while Johnson and Bird were added to the squad for the injured Ben Hilfenhaus. Selectors have placed Usman Khawaja on standby for Clarke, with vice-captain Shane Watson expected to lead the Australians if the skipper fails in his fitness bid. Clarke, who has reclaimed the top spot in the latest ICC Test batsman rankings, said last week his scans were “positive” and he was confident of playing.

He has been having an extraordinary season, scoring 1,489 runs at 106.35 and is just 55 runs adrift of Ricky Ponting’s Australian record of 1,544 in a calendar year with a potential two innings left in

Wednesday’s Melbourne Test.

Opinion is divided over the merits of left-armer Johnson and newcomer Bird for the third pace spot alongside Peter Siddle and Mitchell Starc.

Australia’s greatest Test wicket-taker Shane Warne has plumped for Bird, who has excelled in the last two Sheffield Shield seasons and is ideally suited to the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

“I think (Bird) will open the bowling on Boxing Day,” Warne said. “I don’t think Australia will go with two left-armers. I think Mitchell Starc and Mitchell Johnson both leak runs.”

Starc’s 24 Test wickets have come at 29.20 while Johnson has taken 196 wickets in his 48 Tests at 31.17. Bird has built a strong case for selection with 80 wickets in his 14 Sheffield Shield matches for Tasmania at 17.54 and has snared 14 of those in two matches at the MCG at 12.07.

Australia largely dominated Sri Lanka in Hobart

with Siddle and Starc leading them to their first win of the home season, after losing to South Africa 1-0 in the recent three-Test series.

Sri Lanka have yet to win in Australia in 11 Tests, going back to 1988 and struggled in the fast bowling department in Hobart, relying on spinner Rangana Herath to take the wickets late in the game. Herath is expecting vocal support from the large expat Sri Lankan community in Melbourne for the team’s first Boxing Day Test at the MCG in 17 years.

“In South Africa last year, (it was) the same scenario,” said Herath, who with 60 wickets is this year’s most successful Test bowler. “We lost against South Africa in the first Test and we came back strongly and we did well and we won against South Africa in that Boxing Day Test match.”

It will a special occasion for Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara, who needs 40 more runs in his 115th

Test to become the tenth Test batsman to complete 10,000 runs. “In any player’s career, you remember the Test matches you play at Lord’s, at MCG, at Cape Town and in Galle,” Sangakkara said.

“These are iconic grounds you want to play Test cricket in. I have played 12 to 13 years of Test cricket, but this is my first time here. “You feel happy, you feel proud to walk out with so many people watching you play. That is the ultimate for any sportsman.”

Sangakkara said Sri Lanka had to learn from their mistakes in Hobart, when they lost inside the final hour of play. “It’s important that we realise what a great occasion it is and also understand where we went wrong in the first Test,” he said.

“First innings is always important especially when you are playing good sides. We really need to buckle down and put on a good enough total which our bowlers can put pressure from that position onwards.” — AFP

Tendulkar retires from ODIs

NEW ORLEANS: Louisiana-Lafayette wide receiver Javone Lawson (4) hauls in a touchdown pass in the end zone during the second half of the New Orleans Bowl NCAA college football game against East Carolina. —AP

Broncos win Las Vegas Bowl LAS VEGAS: Boise State clinched its third straight Las Vegas Bowl on Saturday but the Broncos were pushed harder than they were the first two times, edging Washington State 28-26.

In Saturday’s other college football bowl game, Louisiana-Lafayette began its own streak with a second-straight New Orleans Bowl victory, defeating East Carolina 43-34.

Boise State’s big moment was provided by a little guy, with 1.63-meter (5-foot-5) Michael Frisina kicking a 27-yard field goal with 1.16 left to put the Broncos ahead. The Broncos sealed the win when Jeremy Ioane intercepted Keith Price’s pass.

Boise State overcame a 205-yard rushing game by Bishop Sankey against a normally stingy Bronco defense. Sankey also had 74 yards receiving, giving him 279 of Washington’s 447 yards from scrimmage.

Sankey rushed 30 times and caught six passes in the biggest game of his career. He was the MVP of the game, despite being on the losing side. Boise State looked headed for a third straight Vegas blowout when they led 18-3 in the second quarter but Washington got it back to 18-17 at half time. After both teams scored touchdowns on long drives in the third quarter, the Huskies took their only lead of the game on the field goal by Travis Coons with 4:09 left.

On the ensuing kickoff, though, Shane Williams-Rhodes returned the ball 47 yards to the Washington 42, and Joe Southwick guided them to the 12 before Frisina hit the winning kick Louisiana-Lafayette quarterback Terrance Broadway put in an MVP performance to lead the Ragin’ Cajuns to victory over East Carolina. Broadway, who wasn’t projected as Louisiana-Lafayette’s starting quarterback heading into this season,

excelled on the big stage by passing for 316 yards and running for 108.

Broadway, who took over as starter after Blaine Gautier’s injury in late September, also ran for a 12-yard score. Alonzo Harris rushed for 120 yards and two touchdowns for the Ragin’ Cajuns, who briefly squandered a three-touchdown lead before moving back in front for good on Broadway’s 14-yard scoring pass to a juggling, diving Javone Lawson late in the third quarter, going ahead 37-31.

East Carolina pulled back within three points in the fourth quarter with Warren Harvey’s 26-yard field goal. Broadway’s lone interception on a tipped pass then gave East Carolina the ball on the Cajuns 39-yard line, but Pirates quarterback Shane Carden attempted a long pass over the middle which was intercepted by Jemarlous Moten, preserving the slim lead.

Brett Baer slotted his second field goal to push out ULL’s lead to 40-34. East Carolina’s Andrew Bodenheimer, who had five catches for a team-high 65 yards, could not secure a crucial fourth-down pass in the final minutes as defensive back T.J. Worthy ripped the ball away in ECU territory. That allowed the Cajuns to run the clock down to 15 seconds before setting up Baer’s final field goal from 40-yards out to complete the scoring.

East Carolina quarterback Carden passed for 278 yards and two touchdowns while running back Reggie Bullock rushed for 104 yards and two touchdowns. Carden’s touchdowns went to Justin Hardy for 19 yards and Danny Webster for 16 yards. Hardy finished with five catches for 59 yards. Jamal Robinson had six catches for 116 yards for ULL, while Lawson finished with four catches for 71 yards. —AP

Adamek outpoints Cunningham PENNSYLVANIA: Tomasz Adamek, his nose swollen and eyes circled with a little purple, seemed satisfied and relieved after he outpointed Steve Cunningham in a split decision in their IBF heavyweight title eliminator at the Sands Bethlehem Events Center on Saturday.

Adamek (48-2) received winning scores of 115-112 from judge Debra Barnes and 116-112 from Dave Greer, while Tom Miller scored it 115-113 for Cunningham (25-5). After six rounds,

Tomasz Adamek

Miller and Greer had the fight even, and Barnes had Adamek up by two rounds. Greer and Miller gave Adamek three of the last four rounds.

“That was like sparring. Not very many punches were thrown. I feel like I can go back into the ring and fight again,” said Adamek, who fought for the 11th time as a heavyweight, after spending most of his career at light heavyweight. “The fight was close, my trainer told me I had to go after him after the eighth round, and I felt he ran against me. It was part of the plan to

come on late in the last 20 seconds of each round. In a few rounds, I tried to attack him, and he would run. He ran. I fought. It’s why I won.”

The fight was a rematch of a 2008 cruiserweight bout that Adamek also won. Cunningham got up from knockdowns three times in the first fight. But that time, Adamek weighed 198 pounds (90 kilograms) to Cunningham’s 197 pounds (89 kilograms). This time, Adamek weighed in at 223 pounds (101 kilos), and Cunningham 203 1/2 pounds (92 kilos).

Cunningham outlanded Adamek in total punches, 209-169, and used an effective jab, landing 129 of 349. But Adamek hit Cunningham with more power punches, 120-80.

“It all depends on what you were looking at,” said Adamek’s trainer, Roger Bloodworth. “If you looked at effective punching, which is what the judges saw, they would have given this to Tomasz. If you liked running and being a stylist, then you wanted Cunningham. I think the more effective puncher won this fight, and that was Tomasz.” Still, Cunningham was baffled.

“I really don’t know what more I can do. What can I say? What can I do? Real men cry, real men shed tears,” Cunningham said. “You can’t knock everyone out. We did our thing in the ring. It saddens me. I can’t be getting cheated like this. It’s sad, man, it’s sad.

It’s nonsense. What needs to be done in boxing for this not to happen again?

This isn’t a game.” Adamek advanced to fight contender Kubrat Pulev, with the winner scheduled to take on IBF beltholder Wladimir Klitschko. — AP

NEW DELHI: Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar yesterday announced his retirement from international one-day cricket after scoring a record-breaking 49 centuries in the 50-over format. The 39-year-old is the world’s top rungetter in one-day cricket, with 18,426 runs from 463 matches at an average of 44.83.

“I have decided to retire from the one-day format of the game,” he said in a statement. “I feel blessed to have fulfilled the dream of being part of a World Cup winning Indian team (in 2011). “I am eternally grateful to all my wellwishers for their unconditional support and love over the years.” Tendulkar, who is also the highest scorer in Tests, said that he was quitting to allow the Indian selectors to build a team for the 2015 World Cup which is being held in Australia and New Zealand.

“The preparatory process to defend the World Cup in 2015 should begin early... I would like to wish the team all the very best for the future,” he said. Tendulkar, who has been dubbed the “Little Master”, made his one-day debut aged 16 in Gujranwala on a tour of Pakistan in 1989. He lasted just two deliveries before being dismissed by Waqar Younis without scoring.

But in what turned out to be his last two oneday innings, during the Asia Cup in Dhaka in March, he made 114 against Bangladesh to record his 100th international century and then scored 52 against Pakistan.

He played in six World Cups since 1992 and finally found success in his last appearance in the tournament when India defeated Sri Lanka in the final in Tendulkar’s home city of Mumbai on April 2, 2011. He was carried off the pitch at the end of the game on the shoulders of his team-mates. Tendulkar was two months away from his 37th birthday when he smashed the first-ever double century in the history of oneday internationals, making an unbeaten 200 against South Africa in Gwalior in February, 2010. It was unclear if he will continue to play Test cricket, where he has scored a record 15,645 runs in 194 matches at an average of 54.32 with 51 centuries. Former India skipper Krishnamachari Srikkanth said Tendulkar’s records can never be matched. “I am surprised by his move but he is leaving ODI cricket on a high. I am sure he will want to leave on a high in Test cricket also. He will be looking forward to a

MUMBAI: In this Sunday, April 3, 2011 file photo, India’s Sachin Tendulkar poses with the trophy for photographers after winning the Cricket World Cup final against Sri Lanka. India’s batting great Tendulkar has announced yesterday his retirement from one-day cricket. — AP good Test series against Australia,” he said. “His records cannot be surpassed.”

Former captain Sourav Ganguly said: “I felt that he might have played on, but it is his decision and I think it is right. “There was a doubt on whether he would play ODI cricket or not. But I am not surprised by his decision. He has done what he thought was right.”

India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also paid tribute to the record-breaking batsman. “Master.

463 matches, 23 yrs, 18426 runs !!!! These numbers nobody else will be able to come close to.

salute salute salute to sachin,” he tweeted.

Tendulkar was part of a famed Indian middle order which included Ganguly, Rahul Dravid and Venkatsai Laxman-all of whom have now retired from all levels of the game.

His announcement on Sunday comes only weeks after Ricky Ponting, second only to Tendulkar in the list of highest run scorers in Test cricket, played his last match for Australia.

Tendulkar is also the star batsman for the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League (IPL), a domestic Twenty20 tournament. — AFP

India and Pakistan start new innings of ‘cricket diplomacy’ NEW DELHI: Cricket legend Kapil Dev remembers what it was like playing for his country against India’s bitter rival, Pakistan, when he made his international debut in 1978: a bowler was expected to aim at the batsman’s body. “When I played my first series against Pakistan, it did look like a war,” India’s 1983 World Cup-winning captain said during a recent TV panel discussion. “In our time, we were expected more to harm the Pakistani players than win a match.”

Fast-forward to 2012, and India and Pakistan are once again preparing to face off on the cricket field, playing their first series since 2008, when already brittle relations were shattered by the Mumbai attacks.

The fact that the matches are happening at all is widely seen as a sign of the warming atmospherics between the South Asian neighbours, which have fought three wars in their brief independent history and remain deeply mistrustful of each other.

Some 3,000 Pakistani cricket fans will travel to India, benefiting from a more relaxed visa regime that was agreed on earlier this month as part of a series of confidence-building measures. The teams will play five matches across different Indian cities, starting on December 25.

It is the latest round of what is known as “cricket diplomacy” - a tradition of using the subcontinent’s favourite sport to mend relations that stretch back a quarter of a century and saw their respective prime ministers hold pitch-side talks last year. “Politically, cricket has always been there to break the ice,” said Aamer Naseer, a Pakistani TV sports show host. Both India and Pakistan are crazy about cricket and emotions run high whenever the two sides meet, usually in stadiums packed to the rafters and resounding with jingoistic slogan-shouting.

“The atmosphere is unparalleled,” Omer Ghaznavi, a sports analyst for City FM, a popular Pakistani radio station. “I haven’t been to another sporting event where people are so charged up.”

Such is the pressure that the Pakistan Cricket Board is sending a psychologist to help the players cope with the tour. Former Pakistan captain Waqar Younis, alongside Dev at the panel discussion, explained the strain players come under.

“My boys even stopped speaking to each

other, such was the pressure,” Younis said.

“People dub it a war. Well, it’s certainly not a war. At the same time, it’s not just sports either. It is somewhere in between.”

New Delhi and Islamabad have used cricketing occasions to try to make progress on issues that have dogged relations since the two nations won independence from Britain in 1947, especially over the fate of the Kashmir region they both claim.

In 1987, then-Pakistan President Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq visited India to watch a cricket match. But the event was also used to defuse a crisis over troop build-ups on one of the world’s most militarised borders, meeting Indian prime minister of the day, Rajiv Gandhi.

In 2005, Pakistan’s then-military ruler, Pervez Musharraf, travelled to India to watch a cricket match, but the trip also became a summit with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and the two leaders agreed to open up the Kashmir border.

Relations are slowing improving since the

attack on India’s financial capital in 2008, when Pakistani militants went on a killing spree that left 166 people dead and raised fears of an Indian reprisal against its nucleararmed neighbour.

India accuses elements of the Pakistani state of collusion in the assault, and of dragging its feet in bringing the planners of the attack to justice, allegations Islamabad strongly denies. Indian authorities hanged the lone surviving gunman of the attack last month. But festering diplomatic sores are unlikely to overshadow the cricket tour, according to sports historian Boria Majumdar.

Both countries “welcome resumption of cricket ties. They know it’s important to play and engage in trade. They know you don’t achieve anything by not playing with each other,” he said. “Cricket badly needs an IndiaPakistan series. So do the fans,” he said.

“Have no illusion, a cricket series can’t herald peace between two feuding nations. At the end of the day, it’s the responsibility of the political classes.” — Reuters

BANGALORE: Indian security personnel guard the bus carrying Pakistan cricketers and support staff on their arrival at the airport ahead of their first Twenty20 cricket match against India. Pakistan’s cricket team is touring India for a short series, the first between the neighbors in five years, which features two Twenty20 and three One Day International matches beginning at Bangalore tomorrow. —AP

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

S P ORT S

Officials and winners in a group photograph.

Officials and women winners in a group photo.

Mustafa Karam & Sons shooting tournament concludes

By Abdellatif Sharaa KUWAIT: Mustafa Karam & Sons Shooting Tournament concluded on Saturday at Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Olympic Shooting Complex. The closing ceremony was attended by President of Asian and Kuwait Shooting Federations, Sheikh Salman Sabah Al-Salem Al-Humoud Al-Sabah, President of the Arab Shooting Federation, Vicepresident of KSSC Eng Duaij Al-Otaibi, General Manager of Mustafa Karam Co. Mohammad Mustafa Karam, Secretary General of the Arab and Kuwait Shooting Federations Obaid Al-Osaimi, KSSC Treasurer Essa Butaiban, Assistant Treasurer Adnan Al-Ibrahim and Board Member Nidal Sayed Omar.

Obaid Al-Osaimi, in his speech, thanked Mustafa Karam & Sons for their continued sponsorship of the tournament that has lasted for many years, to encourage Kuwait shooters and urge them to make achievements in the name of Kuwait. Al-Osaimi lauded Mohammad Mustafa Karam’s stands in favor of the club’s shooters, and his presence is evidence of his keen interest in this noble sport of our forefathers. He also thanked all those who contributed to the success of the tournament. The winners were then handed their cups and prizes.

Mohammad Mustafa Karam following the ceremony thanked Sheikh Salman and board members for the opportunity to contribute to the sport and create a competitive spirit among Kuwaiti shooters, to push them forward and make outstanding achievements in and outside Kuwait. He congratulated and thanked the shooters and “we will continue our tradition in sponsoring the tournament” he said.

Meanwhile, Eng Duaij Al-Otaibi said, “we at the KSSC organize local tournaments, and among those who sponsor this activity is Mustafa Karam & Sons Company, while Mohammad Mustafa Karam is a board member of KSSC since the start of shooting.

He thanked the company for their continued support.

He said our shooting complex is one of the best around the world, and our schedule contains an average of a tournament every two weeks, and we are looking forward to organizing HH the Amir Grand Prix and the Arab tournament.

Sheikh Salman Al-Humoud (center) with Duaij Al-Otaibi (left) and Mohammad Karam

Mohammad Karam hands a winner his trophy.

Results of the tournament are as follows: Air Pistol - Men 1. Zaid Al-Zafiri 2. Mishal Al-Mutairi 3. Hassan Al-Mulla

Air Pistol - 50M - Men 1. Mideth Al-Sahli 2. Zaid Al-Zafiri 3. Hassan Al-Mulla

Air Rifle - Men 1. Ali Al-Mutairi 2. Khalid Al-Subaie 3. Mubarak Al-Subaie

Air Pistol - 25M - Women 1. Huthama Al-Baghli 2. Eman Bouland 3. Israa Bahman

Air Pistol - Women 1. Eman Bouland 2. Huthama Al-Baghli 3. Israa Bahman

Air Rifle - Juniors - Men 1. Ali Al-Mutairi 2. Mubarak Al-Subaie 3. Mohammad Abdelrahman

Air Rifle - Women 1. Mariam Irzouqi 2. Heba Irzouqi 3. Fatima Abdelmalek

Air Rifle - Juniors - Women 1. Heba Irzouqi 2. Shaima Buhamad 3. Duaa Al-Duwaikhi

Free Rifle - 50M - Men 1. Mishal Al-Tahous 2. Bader Al-Dousari 3. Mishref Al-Daihani

Air Pistol - Juniors - Men 1. Sultan Al-Zafiri 2. Khalifa Al-Zafiri 3. Fawaz Al-Zafiri

Air Pistol - Juniors (M) - Shooting School 1. Abdelaziz Abdallah 2. Nawaf Abdallah 3. Shaye Nawaf

Air Pistol - Juniors - Women 1. Ghazalm Hussein 2. Sarah Al-Khalidi 3. Sheikha Hassan Air Rifle - 50M - Men 1. Turky Al-Shimmari 2. Mohammad Abdelrahman 3. Ali Al-Mutairi Air Rifle - Juniors (M) - Shooting School 1. Mohammad Al-Owaisher 2. Fahad Al-Ajmi 3. Abdelaziz Al-Hossaini Air Rifle - Juniors (W) - Shooting School 1. Jouri Al-Jiddi 2. Dona Al-Jedi 3. Hossa Al-Afasi

Air Pistol - Juniors (W) - Shooting School 1. Lujain Al-Zafiri 2. Dana Al-Ruwaie 3. Ghadeer Ali Archery - Men - Olympic bow 1. Abdelaziz Bushehri 2. Ahmad Al-Tamimi 3. Hussein Al-Nasser Archery - Women - Olympic bow 1. Hanan Al-Mayas 2. Rajaa Al-Haddad

Falcons top Lions 31-18 for home-field advantage

PARIS: French artisan Michel Garault works on the FIFA Ballon d’Or 2012 (‘Golden ball’), at the Mellerio jewelery workshops in Paris. Founded in 1613, French jewelery house Mellerio is the oldest family-owned company in Europe and has been making the ‘Ballon d’Or’ since 1956. —AFP

The centuries of luxury behind football’s top trophy PARIS: The displays at Mellerio jewellers in Paris teem with diamonds and sapphires. But to football fans they pale in comparison with the golden orb on a bed of pyrite crafted by the house for the FIFA Ballon d’Or. Dubbed the Oscars of the football world, the FIFA Ballon d’Or was born in 2010 of the merger of two prizes: the Ballon d’Or, awarded since 1956 by French sports journalists, and FIFA’s World Player trophy, picked since 1991 by coaches and national team captains. The award kept the name and distinctive trophy of the Ballon d’Or, which has stayed more or less the same for half a century: a brass football dipped in gold, resting on a rocky base of pyrite.

The coveted prize, to be handed out on January 7, is crafted by one of the world’s oldest jewellers, the family-owned firm Mellerio dits Meller, which has been crafting gems and ornaments for the kings and queens of Europe since 1613. “It’s something we’re happy be a part of,” Francois Mellerio told AFP of the Ballon d’Or. He and his brother Olivier are the 14th generation to run the firm, which also crafts the Musketeers’ Trophy for the men’s singles in the French tennis open.

With 400 years in business the jeweller has made everything from tiaras-like one model from 1910, made of pearls, diamond and platinum-to ciborium, a cup used as part of the Roman Catholic liturgy.

The basement of its store on Paris’ Rue de la Paix, where the Italian family was the first jeweller to settle in 1815, teems with antique order books, dating back to 1780 and including commissions by the Empresses Josephine and Eugenie. Mellerio today employs 12 artisans in Paris, who work with a mix of tradition-

al and modern methods-lasers alongside hand chisels. How many does it take to make the Ballon d’Or? “Eleven on each team,” joked Michel Garault, a metalsmith who has been with Mellerio for over a decade-and one of the six craftsmen who worked on this year’s Ballon d’Or. The prize, to be awarded on January 7 to one of three shortlisted players: Lionel Messi of Argentina, Spain’s Andres Iniesta, and Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo, follows a simple design, but the process still starts almost a year in advance. Two brass disks are shaped into hemispheres, then welded together. Using a real football as a guide, the seam lines are painstakingly chiseled into the ball by hand.

Then it is engraved with the award logo and dipped in gold before being attached to the base. The pyrite base-which is slightly different each year-is what makes each trophy unique, Mellerio explained. “No two rocks are identical, no two emeralds, no two rubies-there’s always a difference, that’s nature,” Mellerio said. The level of secrecy around the Ballon d’Or has changed over time: until a few years ago, Mellerio received the winner’s name in advance.

Now nameplates are made for all three finalists and the craftsmen learn the winner’s identity along with the rest of the world, attaching his name at the last minute. This year’s favorite, Messi, has won the past three editions of the Ballon d’Or, a feat matched only

by France’s Michel Platini in the 1980s.

Nicknamed “The Flea”, Messi is being talked about as the greatest footballer in history after surpassing the 40-year record of 85 goals in a calendar year set by Germany’s Gerd Mueller in 1972. The player had stretched his tally to 90 by mid-December. —AFP

DETROIT: Atlanta quar terback Matt Ryan matched a career high with four touchdown passes to help the Falcons beat the Detroit Lions 31-18 on Saturday, earning home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs.

“It’s great,” Ryan said. “Our confidence is high and our experience - good and bad - has helped us. The key is to keep the focus where it’s been.”

Detroit’s Calvin Johnson had a record-breaking night on the losing side.

Johnson broke Jerry Rice’s NFL single-season yards receiving mark of 1,848. After making the record-breaking catch in the fourth quarter, Johnson jogged over to the sideline and handed the football to his father. “That was a very special moment,” he said.

Johnson also became the only player with 100 yards receiving in eight straight games and the first in league history with 10 receptions in four games in a row. He had 11 receptions for 225 yards, giving him 1,892 this season.

“I’ve been an NFL fan my whole life, dating back to watching Johnny Unitas and Raymond Berry as a kid, and I’ve coached in this league for 19 years,” Detroit coach Jim Schwartz said. “I’ve seen a lot of Hall of Famers, but I’ve never seen a better player than Calvin Johnson. “He just broke a record set by Jerry Rice, who is arguably the best player in this history of this league.”

The Falcons (13-2) pulled away with Ryan’s fourth TD pass to wide-open tight end Michael Palmer in the fourth quarter and Matt Bryant’s 20-yard field goal with 3:05 left that gave them a 15-point lead. Ryan was 25 of 32 for 279 yards without a turnover.

The Falcons hope playing at home, potentially throughout the conference playoffs, helps them more than it did after the 2010 and 1980 seasons. The Falcons failed to win a game in

either postseason, getting routed by Green Bay two years ago and blowing a double-digit, fourth-quarter lead to Dallas three decades ago.

The Falcons won’t have much incentive next week at home against Tampa Bay, when they’ll have nothing to gain and something to lose if a key player or more gets hurt.

Detroit (4-11) has been relegated to playing for pride this month and that hasn’t been going very well.

The Lions, whose seven-game losing streak is the longest in the league, haven’t struggled this much since the laughingstock of a franchise

became the league’s first to go 0-16 in 2008. The Falcons led 21-3 at halftime before letting the Lions pull within five points early in the fourth quarter. Ryan dashed Detroit’s comeback hopes.

Facing intense pressure, he converted a third down in Atlanta territory with a pass to Roddy White, picked on rookie cornerback Jonte Green by throwing to Jones to pick up more first downs and found Tony Gonzalez open to convert another third down to set up his fourth TD pass. “We didn’t play well in the third quarter,” Atlanta coach Mike Smith said. “Matt made some big throws on that drive.” — AP

NFL standings American Football Conference AFC East W L T OTL PF PA PCT New England 10 4 0 0 506 315 .714 6 8 0 1 255 320 .429 NY Jets Miami 6 8 0 2 264 279 .429 Buffalo 5 9 0 0 306 402 .357 AFC North Baltimore 9 5 0 1 348 307 .643 8 6 0 0 355 293 .571 Cincinnati Pittsburgh 7 7 0 1 302 291 .500 Cleveland 5 9 0 1 280 310 .357 AFC South Houston 12 2 0 0 394 280 .857 9 5 0 0 309 358 .643 Indianapolis Tennessee 5 9 0 1 285 396 .357 Jacksonville 2 12 0 3 219 383 .143 AFC West Denver 11 3 0 0 409 274 .786 5 9 0 1 299 312 .357 San Diego Oakland 4 10 0 0 263 402 .286 Kansas City 2 12 0 1 195 367 .143

National Football Conference NFC East Washington 8 6 0 0 381 350 8 6 0 0 327 338 Dallas NY Giants 8 6 0 0 373 304 Philadelphia 4 10 0 1 253 375 NFC North Green Bay 10 4 0 0 344 292 8 6 0 0 319 308 Minnesota Chicago 8 6 0 1 321 240 Detroit 4 11 0 2 348 411 NFC South Atlanta 13 2 0 0 402 277 389 379 New Orleans 6 8 0 1 Tampa Bay 6 8 0 0 354 349 Carolina 5 9 0 1 296 319 NFC West San Francisco 10 3 1 1 357 218 9 5 0 0 350 219 Seattle St. Louis 6 7 1 0 258 315 Arizona 5 9 0 1 224 302

.571 .571 .571 .286 .714 .571 .571 .267 .867 .429 .429 .357 .750 .643 .464 .357

Asian politics overshadows on-field football progress SINGAPORE: A year of impressive progress in Asian football on the field, including two semifinal berths at the London Olympics, has been overshadowed by yet more corruption and political infighting off the field.

The Asian football headlines were dominated

by Mohamed bin Hammam. The Qatari, who took the post of AFC president in 2002, was found guilty of vote-buying during his challenge against FIFA president Sepp Blatter in 2011 and FIFA’s Ethics Committee suspended him from all football activity for life.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport overturned that ban in July but bin Hammam, 63, was then put under provisional bans by both FIFA and AFC as those bodies investigated allegations of financial irregularities during his nine-year

J j

tenure. On December 17, he resigned from football and was banned for life by FIFA. “It has been damaging for Asian football,” AFC vice -president Yousef Al-Serkal told The Associated Press. “It is has been unfortunate that something like that happened to the AFC at a time when we are tr ying to develop and improve the standard of football and that depends on the image and sponsorships of the AFC. “Such a reputation when it is the concerning the president of the AFC will affect the image negatively. Normally, as we know, big companies as sponsors avoid to be partners with any organization that has such a reputation.” In an interview with the AP in November, bin Hammam still protested his innocence and blamed outside forces. “The AFC is no longer its

own master,” said Bin Hammam. “It is now controlled partly by FIFA and partly by the Olympic Council of Asia. These people (at the AFC) believe that FIFA and the OCA are going to either put them in a more powerful position or consolidate their current position.”

On the field, the biggest story of 2012 was in China where Shanghai Shenhua made a splash in the transfer market by signing former Chelsea strikers Didier Drogba and Nicolas Anelka.

The initial excitement was soon overtaken by gloom as the club performed poorly in the Chinese Super League amid constant speculation that the pair would soon return to Europe as a result of a power struggle at the club. As the year nears its end, it is still widely expected that Anelka will leave and Drogba could follow. —AP

T

19

SPORTS

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Steroids loom in major-college football WASHINGTON: With steroids easy to buy, testing weak and punishments inconsistent, college football players are packing on significant weight - 30 pounds or more in a single year, sometimes - without drawing much attention from their schools or the NCAA in a sport that earns tens of billions of dollars for teams. Rules vary so widely that, on any given game day, a team with a strict nosteroid policy can face a team whose players have repeatedly tested positive.

An investigation by AP — based on dozens of interviews with players, testers, dealers and experts and an analysis of weight records for more than 61,000 players - revealed that while those running the multibillion-dollar sport believe the problem is under control, that is hardly the case. The sport’s near-zero rate of positive steroids tests isn’t an accurate gauge among college athletes. Random tests provide weak deterrence and, by design, fail to catch every player using steroids. Colleges also are

DENVER: In this Nov. 25, 1977, file photo, Denver Bronco defensive lineman Lyle Alzado takes a break during practice as the NFL football team prepares to meet Baltimore. Football’s most infamous steroid user was Alzado, who became a star NFL defensive end in the 1970s and 80s before he admitted to juicing his entire career. Alzado died of brain cancer in 1992. —AP reluctant to spend money on expensive steroid testing when cheaper ones for drugs like marijuana allow them to say they’re doing everything they can to keep drugs out of football.

“It’s nothing like what’s going on in reality,” said Don Catlin, an anti-doping pioneer who spent years conducting the NCAA’s laboratory tests at UCLA. He became so frustrated with the college system that it drove him in part to leave the testing industry to focus on anti-doping research. Catlin said the collegiate system, in which players often are notified days before a test and many schools don’t even test for steroids, is designed to not catch dopers. That artificially reduces the numbers of positive tests and keeps schools safe from embarrassing drug scandals.

While other major sports have been beset by revelations of steroid use, college football has operated with barely a whiff of scandal. Between 1996 and 2010 - the era of Barry Bonds, Mark McGwire, Marion Jones and Lance Armstrong - the failure rate for NCAA steroid tests fell even closer to zero from an already low rate of less than 1 percent. The AP’s investigation, drawing upon more than a decade of official rosters from all 120 Football Bowl Subdivision teams, found thousands of players quickly putting on significant weight, even more than their fellow players. The information compiled by the AP included players who appeared for multiple years on the same teams, making it the most comprehensive data available.

For decades, scientific studies have shown that anabolic steroid use leads to an increase in body weight. Weight gain alone doesn’t prove steroid use, but very rapid weight gain is one factor that would be deemed suspicious, said Kathy Turpin, senior director of sport drug testing for the National Center for Drug Free Sport, which conducts tests for the NCAA and more than 300 schools. Yet the NCAA has never studied weight gain or considered it in regard to its steroid testing policies, said Mary Wilfert, the NCAA’s associate director of health and safety. She would not speculate on the cause of such rapid weight gain. The NCAA attributes the decline in positive tests to its year-round drug testing program, combined with anti-drug education and testing conducted by schools. “The effort has been increasing, and we believe it has driven down use,” Wilfert said.

Big Gains, Data Show The AP’s analysis found that, regardless of school, conference and won-loss record, many players gained weight at exceptional rates compared with their fellow athletes and while accounting for their heights. The documented weight gains could not be explained by the amount of money schools spent on weight rooms, trainers and other football expenses. Adding more than 20 or 25 pounds of lean muscle in a year is nearly impossible through diet and exercise alone, said Dan Benardot, director of the Laboratory for Elite Athlete Performance at Georgia State University.

The AP’s analysis corrected for the fact that players in different positions have different body types, so speedy wide receivers weren’t compared to bulkier offensive tackles. It could not assess each player’s physical makeup, such as how much weight gain was muscle versus fat, one indicator of steroid use. In the most extreme case in the AP analysis, the probability that a player put on

so much weight compared with other players was so rare that the odds statistically were roughly the same as an NFL quarterback throwing 12 passing touchdowns or an NFL running back rushing for 600 yards in one game.

In nearly all the rarest cases of weight gain in the AP study, players were offensive or defensive linemen, hulking giants who tower above 6-foot-3 and weigh 300 pounds or more. Four of those players interviewed by the AP said that they never used steroids and gained weight through dramatic increases in eating, up to six meals a day.

Two said they were aware of other players using steroids. “I just ate. I ate 5-6 times a day,” said Clint Oldenburg, who played for Colorado State starting in 2002 and for five years in the NFL. Oldenburg’s weight increased over four years from 212 to 290, including a one-year gain of 53 pounds, which he attributed to diet and two hours of weight lifting daily. “It wasn’t as difficult as you think. I just ate anything.”

Oldenburg told the AP he was surprised at the scope of steroid use in college football, even in Colorado State’s locker room.

“College performance enhancers were more prevalent than I thought,” he said. “There were a lot of guys even on my team that were using.” He declined to identify any of them. The AP found more than 4,700 players - or about 7 percent of all players - who gained more than 20 pounds overall in a single year. It was common for the athletes to gain 10, 15 and up to 20 pounds in their first year under a rigorous regimen of weightlifting and diet. Others gained 25, 35 and 40 pounds in a season. In roughly 100 cases, players packed on as much 80 pounds in a single year.

In at least 11 instances, players that AP identified as packing on significant weight in college went on to fail NFL drug tests. But pro football’s confidentiality rules make it impossible to know for certain which drugs were used and how many others failed tests that never became public. What is bubbling under the surface in college football, which helps elite athletes gain unusual amounts of weight? Without access to detailed information about each player’s body composition, drug testing and workout regimen, which schools do not release, it’s impossible to say with certainty what’s behind the trend. But Catlin has little doubt: It is steroids. “It’s not brain surgery to figure out what’s going on,” he said. “To me, it’s very clear.”

Football’s most infamous steroid user was Lyle Alzado, who became a star NFL defensive end in the 1970s and ‘80s before he admitted to juicing his entire career. He started in college, where the 190-pound freshman gained 40 pounds in one year. It was a 21 percent jump in body mass, a tremendous gain that far exceeded what researchers have seen in controlled, shortterm studies of steroid use by athletes.

Alzado died of brain cancer in 1992. The AP found more than 130 big-time college football players who showed comparable oneyear gains in the past decade. Students posted such extraordinary weight gains across the country, in every conference, in nearly every school. Many of them eclipsed Alzado and gained 25, 35, even 40 percent of their body mass.

Even though testers consider rapid weight gain suspicious, in practice it doesn’t result in testing. Ben Lamaak, who arrived at Iowa State in 2006, said he weighed 225 pounds in high school and 262 pounds in the summer of his freshman year on the Cyclones football team. A year later, official rosters showed the former basketball player from Cedar Rapids weighed 306, a gain of 81 pounds since high school. He graduated as a 320-pound offensive lineman and said he did it all naturally. “I was just a young kid at that time, and I was still growing into my body,” he said. “It really wasn’t that hard for me to gain the weight. I had fun doing it. I love to eat. It wasn’t a problem.”

In addition to random drug testing, Iowa State is one of many schools that have “reasonable suspicion” testing. That means players can be tested when their behavior or physical symptoms suggest drug use.

Despite gaining 81 pounds in a year, Lamaak said he was never singled out for testing.

The associate athletics director for athletic training at Iowa State, Mark Coberley, said coaches and trainers use body composition, strength data and other factors to spot suspected cheaters. Lamaak, he said, was not suspicious because he gained a lot of “nonlean” weight. “There are a lot of things that go into trying to identify whether guys are using performance-enhancing drugs,” Coberley said. “If anybody had the answer, they’d be spotting people that do it. We keep our radar up and watch for things that are suspicious and try to protect the kids from making stupid decisions.”

There’s no evidence that Lamaak’s weight gain was anything but natural.

Gaining fat is much easier than gaining muscle. But colleges don’t routinely release information on how much of the weight their players gain is muscle, as opposed to fat. Without knowing more, said Benardot, the expert at Georgia State, it’s impossible to say whether large athletes were putting on suspicious amounts of muscle or simply obese, which is defined as a body mass index greater than 30. Looking solely at the most significant weight gainers also ignores players like Bryan Maneafaiga.

In the summer of 2004, Maneafaiga was an undersized 180-pound running back trying to make the University of Hawaii football team. Twice - once in pre-season and once in the fall - he failed school drug tests, showing up positive for marijuana use. What surprised him was that the same tests turned up negative for steroids. He’d started injecting stanozolol, a steroid, in the summer to help bulk up to a roster weight of 200 pounds. Once on the team, where he saw only limited playing time, he’d occasionally

inject the milky liquid into his buttocks the day before games. “Food and good training will only get you so far,” he told the AP recently.

Maneafaiga’s coach, June Jones, meanwhile, said none of his players had tested positive for doping since he took over the team in 1999. He also said publicly that steroids had been eliminated in college football: “I would say 100 percent,” he told The Honolulu Advertiser in 2006. Jones said it was news to him that one of his players had used steroids. Jones, who now coaches at Southern Methodist University, said many of his former players put on bulk working hard in the weight room. For instance, adding 70 pounds over a three- to four-year period isn’t unusual, he said. Jones said a big jump in muscle year-over-year - say 40 pounds - would be a “red light that something is not right.” Jones, a former NFL head coach, said he is unaware of any steroid use at SMU and believes the NCAA is doing a good job testing players. “I just think because the way the NCAA regulates it now that it’s very hard to get around those tests,” he said.

The Cost of Testing While the use of drugs in professional sports is a question of fairness, use among college athletes is also important as a public policy issue. That’s because most top-tier football teams are from public schools that benefit from millions of dollars each year in taxpayer subsidies. Their athletes are essentially wards of the state. Coaches and trainers - the ones who tell players how to behave, how to exercise and what to eat are government employees. Then there are the health risks, which include heart and liver problems and cancer. On paper, college football has a strong drug policy. The NCAA conducts random, unannounced drug testing and the penalties for failure are severe.

Players lose an entire year of eligibility after a first positive test. A second offense means permanent ineligibility from sports.

In practice, though, the NCAA’s roughly 11,000 annual tests amount to just a fraction of all athletes in Division I and II schools.

Exactly how many tests are conducted each year on football players is unclear because the NCAA hasn’t published its data for two years. And when it did, it periodically changed the formats, making it impossible to compare one year of football to the next.

Even when players are tested by the NCAA, people involved in the process say it’s easy enough to anticipate the test and develop a doping routine that results in a clean test by the time it occurs. NCAA rules say players can be notified up to two days in advance of a test, which Catlin says is plenty of time to beat a test if players have designed the right doping regimen. By comparison, Olympic athletes are given no

MALIBU: In this May 19, 2007, file photo, Dr. Don H Catlin, former director of the UCLA Olympic Analytical laboratory, testifies during an arbitration hearing on the doping allegations against 2006 Tour de France cycling champion Floyd Landis at Pepperdine University.—AP notice. “Everybody knows when testing is coming. They all know. And they know how to beat the test,” Catlin said, adding, “Only the really dumb ones are getting caught.”

Players are far more likely to be tested for drugs by their schools than by the NCAA. But while many schools have policies that give them the right to test for steroids, they often opt not to. Schools are much more focused on street drugs like cocaine and marijuana. Depending on how many tests a school orders, each steroid test can cost $100 to $200, while a simple test for street drugs might cost as little as $25. When schools call and ask about drug testing, the first question is usually, “How much will it cost,” Turpin said.

Most schools that use Drug Free Sport do not test for anabolic steroids, Turpin said.

Some are worried about the cost. Others don’t think they have a problem. And others believe that since the NCAA tests for steroids their money is best spent testing for street drugs, she said. Wilfert, the NCAA official, said the possibility of steroid testing is still a deterrent, even at schools where it isn’t conducted. “Even though perhaps those institutional programs are not including steroids in all their tests, they could, and they do from time to time,” she said. “So, it is a kind of deterrence.”

For Catlin, one of the most frustrating things about running the UCLA testing lab was getting urine samples from schools around the country and only being asked to test for cocaine, marijuana and the like.

“Schools are very good at saying, ‘Man, we’re really strong on drug testing,’” he said.

“And that’s all they really want to be able to say and to do and to promote.” That helps explain how two school drug tests could miss Maneafaiga’s steroid use. It’s also possible that the random test came at an ideal time in Maneafaiga’s steroid cycle.

HONOLULU: In this Oct. 9, 2004, file photo, Hawaii’s Bryan Maneafaiga (43) scores a touchdown against Nevada in Honolulu. With uneven testing for steroids and inconsistent punishment, college football players are packing on significant weight — in some cases, 30 pounds or more in a single year — without drawing much attention from their schools or the NCAA in a sport that earns tens of billions of dollars for teams. But looking solely at the most significant weight gainers also ignores players like Maneafaiga. —AP federal law, but players who use them need Enforcement Varies The top steroid investigator at the US not worry too much about prosecution. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Joe DEA focuses on criminal operations, not Rannazzisi, said he doesn’t understand why individual users. When players are caught schools don’t invest in the same kind of test- with steroids, it’s often as part of a traffic ing, with the same penalties, as the NFL. The stop or a local police investigation. Jared NFL has a thorough testing program for Foster, 24, a quarterback recruited to play at most drugs, though the league has yet to the University of Mississippi, was kicked off resolve a long-simmering feud with its play- the team in 2008 after local authorities ers union about how to test for human arrested him for giving a man nandrolone, growth hormone. “Is it expensive? Of course, an anabolic steroid, according to court docbut college football makes a lot of money,” uments. Foster pleaded guilty and served he said. “Invest in the integrity of your pro- jail time. He told the AP that he doped in gram.” For a school to test all 85 scholarship high school to impress college recruiters. He football players for steroids twice a season said he put on enough lean muscle to go would cost up to $34,000, Catlin said, plus from 185 pounds to 210 in about two the cost of collecting and handling the urine months. “Everybody around me was doing samples. That’s about 0.2 percent of the it,” he said. Steroids are not hard to find. A average big-time school football budget of simple Internet search turns up countless about $14 million. Testing all athletes in all online sources for performance-enhancing sports would make the school’s costs higher. drugs, mostly from overseas companies.

When schools ask Drug Free Sport for advice College athletes freely post messages on on their drug policies, Turpin said she rec- steroid websites, seeking advice to beat ommends an immediate suspension after tests and design the right schedule of the first positive drug test. Otherwise, she administering steroids. And steroids are still a mainstay in private, local gyms. Before the said, “student athletes will roll the dice.”

But drug use is a bigger deal at some DEA shut down Alabama-based Applied schools than others. At Notre Dame and Pharmacy Services as a major nationwide Alabama, the teams that will soon compete steroid supplier, sales records obtained by for the national championship, players don’t the AP show steroid shipments to bodyautomatically miss games for testing posi- builders, trainers and gym owners around tive for steroids. At Alabama, coaches have the country. Because users are rarely prosewide discretion. Notre Dame’s student-ath- cuted, the demand is left in place after the lete handbook says a player who fails a test distributor is gone. When Joshua Hodnik can return to the field once the steroids are was making and wholesaling illegal steroids, out of his system. “If you’re a strength-and- he had found a good retail salesman in a conditioning coach, if you see your kids college quarterback named Vinnie Miroth. making gains that seem a little out of line, Miroth was playing at Saginaw Valley State, are you going to say, ‘I’m going to investi- a Division II school in central Michigan, and gate further? I want to catch someone?’” was buying enough steroids for 25 people said Anthony Roberts, an author of a book each month, Hodnik said. “That’s why I hired on steroids who says he has helped college him,” Hodnik said. “He bought large football players design steroid regimens to amounts and knew how to move it.”

Miroth, who pleaded no contest in 2007 beat drug tests.

There are schools with tough policies. and admitted selling steroids, helped The University of North Carolina kicks play- authorities build their case against Hodnik, ers off the team after a single positive test according to court records. Now playing for steroids. Auburn’s student-athlete hand- football in France, Miroth declined repeated book calls for a half-season suspension for AP requests for an interview. Hodnik was any athlete caught using performance- released from prison this year and says he is enhancing drugs. Wilfert said it’s not up to out of the steroid business for good. He said the NCAA to determine whether that’s fair. there’s no doubt that steroid use is wide“Obviously if it was our testing program, we spread in college football. “These guys don’t believe that everybody should be under the start using performance-enhancing drugs same protocol and the same sanction,” she when they hit the professional level,” the said. Fans typically have no idea that such Oklahoma City man said. “Obviously it starts discrepancies exist and players are left to well before that. And you can go back to suspect who might be cheating. “You see a some of the professional players who tested lot of guys and you know they’re possibly on positive and compare their numbers to colsomething because they just don’t gain lege and there is virtually no change.”

Maneafaiga, the former Hawaii running weight but get stronger real fast,” said Orrin Thompson, a former defensive lineman at back, said his steroids came from Mexico. A Duke. “You know they could be doing some- friend in California, who was a coach at a thing but you really don’t know for sure.”

Thompson gained 85 pounds between 2001 and 2004, according to Duke rosters and Thompson himself. He said he did not use steroids and was subjected to several tests while at Duke, a school where a single positive steroid test results in a yearlong suspension. Meanwhile at UCLA, home of the laboratory that for years set the standard for cutting-edge steroid testing, athletes can fail three drug tests before being suspended. At Bowling Green, testing is voluntary. At the University of Maryland, students must get counseling after testing positive, but school officials are prohibited from disciplining first-time steroid users. Athletic department spokesman Matt Taylor denied that was the case and sent the AP a copy of the policy.

But the policy Taylor sent included this provision: “The athletic department/coaching staff may not discipline a student-athlete for a first drug offense.” By comparison, in Ben Lamaak Kentucky and Maryland, racehorses face tougher testing and sanctions than football junior college, sent them through the mail. players at Louisville or the University of But Maneafaiga believes the consequences Maryland. “If you’re trying to keep a level were nagging injuries. He found religion, playing field, that seems nonsensical,” said quit the drugs and became the team’s chapRannazzisi at the DEA. He said he was sur- lain. “God gave you everything you need,” prised to learn that what gets a free pass at he said. “It gets in your mind. It will make one school gets players immediately sus- you grow unnaturally. Eventually, you’ll pended at another. “What message does break down. It happened to me every time.”

At the DEA, Rannazzisi said he has met that send? It’s OK to cheat once or twice?”

Only about half the student athletes in a with and conducted training for investiga2009 NCAA survey said they believed school tors and top officials in every professional testing deterred drug use. As an association sport. He’s talked to Major League Baseball of colleges and universities, the NCAA could about the patterns his agents are seeing. not unilaterally force schools to institute uni- He’s discussed warning signs with the NFL. form testing policies and sanctions, Wilfert He said he’s offered similar training to the said. “We can’t tell them what to do, but if NCAA but never heard back. Wilfert said the went through a membership process where NCAA staff has discussed it and hasn’t decidthey determined that this is what should be ed what to do. “We have very little communication with the NCAA or individual done, then it could happen,” she said. schools,” Rannazzisi said. “They’ve got my card. What they’ve done with it? I don’t ‘Everybody Around Me was Doing it’ Steroids are a controlled substance under know.” —AP

Tendulkar retires from ODIs

Heat silence Jazz

17

15

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

India and Pakistan start new innings of ‘cricket diplomacy’ Page 17

LONDON: Chelsea’s Juan Mata (second right) hits a shot during the English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge stadium.—AP

Chelsea humiliate Villa 8-0 Chelsea 8

Aston Villa 0 LONDON: Rafael Benitez took a big step in his efforts to win over doubting Chelsea fans by overseeing a stunning 8-0 victory over Aston Villa yesterday that moved the Spaniard’s side back up to third spot.

Fernando Torres kick-started the win with his seventh goal in six appearances, while Frank Lampard marked his 500th Premier League start with a goal that made him the club’s leading scorer in the top flight.

Ramires scored twice, with David Luiz, Branislav Ivanovic, Eden Hazard and Oscar also on target in a victory that emphatically drew a line under the club’s recent slump.

There was much for Benitez to be pleased about, particularly the continuing good form of Torres. But for Aston

Villa, this result-their heaviest top-flight defeat-will come as a crushing blow after the improvement they have shown in recent weeks.

One of the first questions asked of Benitez when he took charge at Stamford Bridge was whether he could revive Torres. The interim manager insisted he could and the striker’s recent strike rate suggests Benitez has been good to his word, as the sharpness of Torres’s third-minute header demonstrated. Picked out by Cesar Azpilicueta’s cross from deep, the Spain international connected with a powerful header, twisting his body to direct the ball beyond Brad Guzan from 16 yards out.

It was the perfect start for the Blues, who came into the game on the back of an impressive 5-1 League Cup quarter-final victory at Leeds United. Villa are also in the last four of that competition and Paul Lambert’s side arrived in west London unbeaten in their previous six games.

But any confidence they have built up during that impressive run was shredded during a first half when

Chelsea easily assumed complete control of the game. Chelsea thought they should have been given the chance to double their lead in the 22nd minute when Torres appeared to be held by Nathan Baker, but referee Phil Dowd waved away appeals for a penalty.

They soon had their second, however, when Luiz assumed responsibility for a free-kick 25 yards out, curling the ball up, over the wall and inside Guzan’s right-hand post in the 29th minute.

Lambert had understandably kept faith with the side that won 3-1 at Liverpool last weekend and it was, with an average age of just under 24, the youngest team Villa had ever fielded in the Premier League.

Their inexperience showed as they collapsed under the weight of the Chelsea pressure, falling further behind when Ivanovic made it three in the 34th minute. A Chelsea corner was met

by Gary Cahill, whose deflected shot was beaten away by Guzan, but only into the path of Ivanovic, who headed home unchallenged.

Villa’s priority was to save them-

selves from humiliation in the second period, but it quickly became clear that that task would prove beyond them.

Juan Mata produced an outstanding save from Guzan five minutes after the restart, before Torres had a header ruled out for offside.

It was left to Lampard to add the fourth, the Blues’ stand-in skipper marking his big day in style with a powerful low drive from 25 yards.

Chelsea scored their fifth in the 75th minute when Ramires collected a pass from fellow substitute Lucas Piazon and stroked the ball through Guzan’s legs.

Four minutes later, Chris Herd fouled Oscar and the Brazilian picked himself off the floor to convert the penalty. Hazard then exchanged passes with Piazon before creating space inside the area and beating Guzan with a vicious rising drive in the 83rd minute.

Guzan saved excellently from Piazon’s penalty after the Brazilian had been fouled by Ciaran Clark, but that was only a temporary reprieve before Ramires struck Chelsea’s eighth.—AFP

EPL results/standings Chelsea 8 (Torres 3, Luiz 29, Ivanovic 34, Lampard 58, Ramires 75, 90+1, Oscar 79-pen, Hazard 83) Aston Villa 0; Swansea 1 (Michu 29) Manchester Utd 1 (Evra 16).

Played Saturday: Liverpool 4 (Skrtel 8, Gerrard 36, Downing 51, Suarez 90) Fulham 0; Manchester City 1 (Barry 90) Reading 0; Newcastle 1 (Ameobi 81) QPR 0; Southampton 0, Sunderland 1 (Fletcher 42); Tottenham 0, Stoke 0; West Bromwich 2 (Gera 43, Lukaku 82) Norwich City 1 (Snodgrass 23); West Ham 1 (Cole 14) Everton 2 (Anichebe 64, Pienaar 73); Wigan 0, Arsenal 1 (Arteta 60-pen).

English Premier League table after yesterday’s matches (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points): Man Utd

18 14 1

3 44 25 43

Swansea

Man City

18 11 6

1 34 15 39

West Ham

18 6 5

7 22 22 23

Chelsea

17 9 5

3 36 17 32

Fulham

18 5 5

8 28 33 20

Arsenal

18 8 6

4 32 18 30

Newcastle

18 5 5

8 20 26 20

Everton

18 7 9

2 30 22 30

Sunderland

18 4 7

7 19 24 19

Tottenham

18 9 3

6 30 25 30

Aston Villa

18 4 6

8 15 32 18

Bromwich

18 9 3

6 26 22 30

Southampton 17 4 3 10 22 33 15

Liverpool

18 6 7

5 27 23 25

Wigan

Stoke

18 5 10

3 15 13 25

QPR

18 1 7 10 15 31 10

5 20 27 25

Reading

18 1 6 11 21 37

Norwich

18 6 7

18 6 6

6 27 23 24

18 4 3 11 18 33 15 9

Swansea frustrate United Swansea 1

Man United 1

LONDON: Manchester United’s Robin van Persie (center) jumps for the ball against Swansea’s Ashley Williams (left) as Ben Davies looks on during their English Premier League soccer match.—AP

SWANSEA: Manchester United’s lead over Manchester City is down to four points from six after the Premier Leage leaders were held 1-1 at Swansea City’s Liberty Stadium yesterday.

Patrice Evra struck with a firsthalf header to put United on their way but a Michu equaliser before half-time was enough to give Swansea a richly deserved point.

Having seen neighbours City cut their lead at the top of the league to three points with Saturday’s lastgasp 1-0 victor y over Reading, United were keen to restore their healthy advantage going into the busy festive period.

United winger Antonio Valancia

had an early cross blocked by Ben Davies but it was Swansea who looked the more likely in the early stages, with Nathan Dyer putting in a dangerous cross and Michu spurning a sight of goal.

The Spaniard, who now has 13 goals in the league this season, fired high and wide under pressure from Nemanja Vidic, but the threat was clear. Wayne Routledge tested David de Gea with a shot on the turn from 18 yards before Michu was caught offside from a delightful throughball by Routledge.

The danger for United was always there and though Swansea came into the game on the back of successive defeats against Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur, they were not shor t on confidence.

Clearly smarting from a sluggish start, United might have taken the lead in the 14th minute when Michel Vorm, back in the Swansea goal after a two-month injury layoff, beat away Wayne Rooney’s 25yard strike.

Two minutes later, Evra rose to head home Robin van Persie’s nearpost corner. It was the signal for United to step on the gas and try to kill off the game before Swansea could respond.

Van Persie and Valencia were the main source of Swansea’s problems, though Rooney almost latched onto Ashley Young’s crisp centre after van Persie had torn a hole in the home midfield.

Then, as United dropped their guard, Swansea struck. Routledge sent in Jonathan de Guzman and though his shot was kept out by De Gea, Michu arrived with per fect timing to make it 13 for the season.

Swansea were good value for the goal and though the sides turned around level, De Guzman and Michu both had opportunities to send the hosts in at half-time with a lead. United were strangely careless in the second half, with Rooney, on too many occasions to remember, giving away the ball in positions of promise.

His free-kick on the hour, after Chico Flores was booked for a poorly timed tackle, was straight at Vorm, as was Dyer’s 30-yard shot at the opposite end a minute later.

The introduc tion of Javier Hernandez gave United a little more bite, with Rooney dropping back into the visitors’ four-man midfield. From that junc ture, United began to dominate possession, with Swansea needing all of their resolve to keep the leaders at bay.

Van Persie, who was booked with Ashley Williams after the pair had a spat on the edge of the 18yard box, struck the crossbar with a volley from Rooney’s centre and Vorm pulled off a smart save from Hernandez.

Michael Carrick then forced a great save from Vorm and Swansea twice had to produce desperate blocks as United turned the screw.

Swansea, however, held on to claim a first ever Premier League point against United.—AFP

Ahmadinejad says Iran is fighting ‘economic war’ Page 22

MENA professionals feel positive about 2013 Page 23

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

NBK congratulates IAB member

Syria’s battered pound floats on rebel funds Page 23

Page 26

BEIJING: Chinese girls dressed in Santa Claus costumes carry baskets of sweets and wait to distribute them yesterday. Some shopping malls welcome the festival with colorful decorations as a chance to boost year-end sales. —AP

Republicans hold out for deeper cuts Stop-gap fix most likely outcome of US ‘fiscal cliff’ talks WASHINGTON: The “fiscal cliff” deadline is days away and the US Congress and President Barack Obama have left town for Christmas.

But even if they were still here, it wouldn’t have mattered, according to Steny Hoyer, the second-ranking Democrat in the House of Representatives. He says they were going nowhere to resolving the disagreement over how to fix the nation’s fiscal problems. Last month’s dreams of a “grand bargain” of tax hikes and spending cuts seem long gone.

They had been reduced to more modest bargains in mid-December, and as 2013 approaches, are on the verge of relegation to a “stop-gap measure,” at best the sort of temporary fix that Congress undertook in 2011.

A stop-gap that puts everything off for a while but resolves nothing is now the most promising alternative, if there is to be one, to the across-the-board tax hikes and spending cuts described as a “fiscal cliff” because they threaten to send the US economy plunging into another recession. It is also the way fiscal showdowns have ended in Washington in recent years. Such a fix, at best, would delay the spending cuts and tax hikes further into 2013 as well as work to address in a long-term way a government budget that has generated deficits exceeding $1 trillion in each of the last four years. Even worse, it would set up a huge fight in January and February over raising the US debt ceiling, which controls the amount of money the federal government can borrow.

Dysfunction in Washington was specifical-

ly cited as one of the reasons rating agency Standard & Poor’s cut the US debt rating to AA-plus after a battle over the debt ceiling in 2011. That alone - not to mention going over the cliff - could lead to another rating cut. At worst, the new year could start with a fullfledged jump off the ‘cliff,’ with an understanding, communicated to financial markets, that Congress and the White House would come back and try again for a solution.

Given the apparent deadlock, some congressional aides this week said that Washington needed to begin telegraphing to Wall Street that markets should not panic if a “fiscal cliff” deal is not struck in December.

The goal, one aide said on condition of anonymity, is to avoid starting 2013 with a steep stock market drop like the one the US suffered in 2008, when the country’s financial industry was falling apart and Congress was divided over what to do.

On Friday, Obama acknowledged that only small steps might be possible with so little time remaining. Those, the Democratic president said, would consist of extending benefits for the long-term unemployed and keeping income tax rates low for 98 percent of Americans - meaning raising taxes on households with net incomes above $250,000 a year but not for those earning less. He held out the possibility of something “comprehensive,” as he put it, but it had a hollow ring at the close of a work week that saw House Speaker John Boehner step back from negotiations and pursue a partisan plan that even

some of his fellow Republicans could not stomach.

Market pressure The steps that Obama outlined were immediately rejected by Republicans, who have given ground on their previous steadfast opposition to any tax hikes but are still demanding that the White House agree to more substantial spending cuts. “The president has failed to offer any solution that passes the test of balance,” declared Boehner spokesman Brendan Buck, minutes after the end of Obama’s statement on Friday.

On Saturday, a spokesman for Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell was similarly dismissive, noting Obama’s call had neither bipartisan support nor spending cuts to ride along with tax increases. McConnell, on Friday, suggested bringing up a Housepassed bill that extends current tax rates for all Americans, including the top earners, and then pushes for comprehensive tax reform next year that theoretically could raise new revenues to help cut deficits.

But Obama has promised repeatedly to veto any extension of the expiring Bush-era tax cuts that fail to hike rates for the wealthy.

And Democrats, who control the Senate, have dismissed the McConnell idea, arguing that Obama ran his successful 2012 re-election campaign on a promise of forcing the wealthy to bear more of the burden of deficit reduction. Democratic aides in Congress think their own bill implementing Obama’s

$250,000 income threshold, which passed the 100-member Senate in July with 51 votes, could breeze through this month, or next year after the “fiscal cliff” is breached.

The prospect of a breach is being discussed far more seriously now, and not just as a bluff or to set up the other side for blame. “I think we’re going to go over the cliff,” said Republican Representative Patrick Tiberi of Ohio. “I don’t see something getting done.” In an MSNBC interview Friday, Hoyer, a 31-year veteran of Congress from Maryland, said it wouldn’t matter if everyone was in Washington instead of on holiday.

“Frankly, we’ve been in town for four weeks and members haven’t been doing much,” he said, calling it “one of the least productive times that I’ve been in Congress.”

Even Obama speaks of “a mismatch” between how people are thinking about the looming tax hikes and spending cuts “outside of this town and how folks are operating here. And we’ve just got to get that aligned,” he said in his statement.

ITG Investment Research Chief Economist Steve Blitz on Saturday said sliding the “fiscal cliff” negotiations into the new year was not a huge deal. “I think markets will pressure for a deal in January,” he said. The “pressure” could be in the form of a significant stock market drop, which would hit workers’ retirement plans, threaten to deter consumer and business spending, and possibly rattle other countries’ economies at a time when the global economy is far from robust. — AP

Qatar lifts 2013 economic growth, inflation outlook DUBAI: Qatar raised its forecast for economic growth next year and said that while prices would rise considerably as huge infrastructure-building plans gained speed, it could contain inflation. Gross domestic product, adjusted for inflation, is now forecast to expand 4.8 percent in 2013 instead of the 4.5 percent which authorities predicted in June, the General Secretariat for Development Planning said yesterday. That growth rate, down from an estimated 6.3 percent in 2012, would be Qatar’s lowest since 2002, according to International Monetary Fund data. A period of heavy investment in Qatar’s oil and gas resources has ended, meaning it will move closer to the growth rates of other Gulf Arab energy exporters, the plan-

ning authority said in a statement.

But oil and gas output next year is likely to decline less than originally thought, by 0.2 percent instead of 1.2 percent, largely because of more crude oil production.

Infrastructure building will also accelerate, taking construction sector growth to a double-digit rate, the authority said.

Qatar plans to spend tens of billions of dollars by 2020 on railways, roads, utilities and facilities to host the 2022 soccer World Cup, but partly because of bureaucratic obstacles, projects have started more slowly than businessmen had hoped. The authority predicts Qatar’s state budget spending next year will climb 9.5 percent to 255.8 billion riyals ($70.3 billion); within that, capital spending would rise

10.4 percent to 85.9 billion riyals.

Although Qatar is vulnerable to any downturn in oil prices, the authority calculated the price of crude oil, now above $100 a barrel, would have to drop below $50 to shift its budget surplus into a deficit next year. It saw the main economic risk as geopolitical, an apparent reference to Iran’s threats to close the Strait of Hormuz in the event of conflict over its disputed nuclear programme. “Should geopolitics develop in a way that disrupts the free flow of gas and oil, the financial resources available to the state will be affected,” the authority said, adding that in this case Qatar could mobilise its reserves. Analysts estimate its sovereign wealth fund has over $100 billion of assets.

Inflation While the infrastructure building scheme will keep Qatar’s economy growing, companies and workers pouring into the country to handle the projects are likely to push up residential rents.

The authority now expects consumer price inflation to rise to 3.5 percent in 2013 from 2.0 percent this year; in June, it had predicted 2013 inflation of only 2.5 percent. The rental component of the consumer price index bottomed out in AprilMay this year and by August rents had climbed above their year-ago level, adding about 0.5 percentage point to inflation this year, the authority said.

It said officials could use a combination of regulation and action by the central bank, which has

been issuing Treasury bills to absorb excess funds in the money market, to avert overheating.

“Inflation remains mild and is unlikely to present a threat to macroeconomic stability,” it said.

“The authorities will continue to deploy their regulatory powers to prevent traders imposing unjustified hikes on consumer prices. The central bank has been vigilant in managing credit growth and has a full armoury of effective tools.” An earlier explosion of bank loans to the real estate sector led some analysts to fear a bubble, but the authority said year-on-year growth in commercial banks’ credit to private construction and real estate firms had dropped to 8.3 percent in October from above 40 percent around the end of last year. —Reuters

Egypt stocks fall after constitution approved

MIDEAST STOCK MARKET DUBAI/CAIRO: Egypt’s bourse dropped in volatile trade yesterday, pulled down by profit-taking and concern that the central bank governor might resign, after stocks rose early on in response to voters’ approval of a new constitution for the country. Supporters and opponents of President Mohamed Morsi said their unofficial counts showed the constitution had been approved after two rounds of voting that ended with a final ballot on Saturday. The vote does not remove and may inflame political tensions in Egypt; many in the opposition feel Morsi’s action in pushing through the constitution violated the country’s new democracy, and that the document favours Islamists while ignoring the rights of Christians and women. So the vote could be a recipe for further unrest in the long term.

This could complicate the government’s efforts to win the domestic consensus on budget cuts and economic policies that it needs to secure a $4.8 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, some analysts believe.

Nevertheless, investors and traders were relieved that the vote was conducted without severe violence, and saw it as a step towards normalcy and parliamentary elections that could eventually produce a stable government. After plunging in late November when the crisis over the constitution began, the stock market quickly began recovering and is now roughly back at pre-crisis levels. Cairo’s benchmark index rose in early trade yesterday, hitting a high of 5,505 points, before pulling back to close 1.5 percent lower at 5,362 points in heavy trade.

One factor encouraging profit-taking was talk, fuelled by a state television report on Saturday night, that central bank governor Farouk El-Okdah might resign. ElOkdah denied the report but there has been persistent media speculation that he might go, and with the Egyptian pound near eight-year lows against the dollar, some investors fear his departure could signal a policy change in which the central bank stopped resisting depreciation.

“Some investors were speculating the constitution will fly, while others were worrying the market’s positive performance over the last two weeks will not last,” said Osama Mourad, chief executive of Arab Finance Brokerage. “The news of the governor weighed more on the market - it increased uncertainty about the situation of the Egyptian pound and the fiscal policy of the country.” Nevertheless, stock exchange data yesterday once again showed that while local retail investors were net sellers, foreign investors and non-resident Arab investors were net buyers - a sign of longer-term confidence in the country. Another sign of confidence was news that Dubai’s Majid Al-Futtaim was in talks with Egypt’s Mansour Group, owned by billionaire Mohammed Mansour, to buy its supermarket business in a deal valued at $200 million to $300 million, according to three sources aware of the discussions. — Reuters

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

BUSINESS

Ahmadinejad says Iran is fighting ‘economic war’

Latest numbers show the economy powering ahead

By Hayder Tawfik

Govt ‘controls’ effect of US sanctions TEHRAN: Iran is engaged in a “smart economic war” with Western powers whose sanctions against its nuclear programme are hurting some Iranians, President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said on Saturday. “Targeted sanctions, which the enemies say are supposed to be crippling, have led to a drop in our oil” sales, Ahmadinejad said in a live interview on state television, referring to an oil embargo imposed by the European Union.

“They do not even let us transfer the oil money,” he said. “They thought Iran’s economy would break down, but it did not.” “Iran is engaged in a smart economic war with the enemy,” he said.

The EU measure, which came into effect in July, ended European purchases of Iranian crude, and has since decreased Tehran’s oil exports to its Asian customers from between 10 to 30 percent.

According to the International Energy Agency, Iranian exports in November were estimated at 1.3 million barrels per day, down from nearly 2.3 million last year. Ahmadinejad said his government had “so far managed to control” the effects of sanctions on the economy but admitted that “heavy pressure had been exerted on some Iranians because of sanctions.”

lions of dollars in additional revenues for his government has been criticised by his opponents, who blame it partially for Iran’s runaway inflation.

Ahmadinejad said his government had devised schemes to diffuse the effects of Western sanctions in the “long-term.” “ We have prepared long-term plans to decrease dependency on the oil-generated money. We will not allow them to use economic measures as a tool for putting pressure on us anymore,” he said. He said without elaborating that Iran was to “increase its non-oil exports.” His remarks came as Western powers engaging Iran to resolve a years-long dispute over its nuclear programme are pressuring Tehran to return to the negotiating table. Iran has yet to respond to offers of renewed negotiations with the so-called P5+1 group, consisting of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany. Iran insists its programme of uranium enrichment is for purely peaceful purposes, and denies Western and Israeli allegations that it wants to manufacture nuclear weapons. In addition to US and EU measures, Iran is also under four rounds of Security Council sanctions. — AFP

He did not elaborate on how Iran was fighting off sanctions for fear the methods would be found by Western powers trying to goad Iran back to the negotiating table over its nuclear ambitions. “I cannot say what heavy pressure the enemy has imposed, and how we are dealing with them.” “We have so far managed to control this blow, and it hasn’t turned out the way they predicted,” he said.

Ahmadinejad has faced increasingly scrutiny at home for economic woes, including the collapse of the national currency, which lost more than two-thirds of its value in a 20-day span starting in late September. Iran’s economy is struggling to cope with the gradual tightening of sanctions by the United States and the European Union over the past two years.

The sanctions have also targeted Iran’s access to the global banking system, slowing its economy, accelerating inflation and boosting the ranks of the jobless. Ahmadinejad was speaking to report on his government’s implementation two years ago of a controversial plan to cut subsidies on food and energy and redistribute it in form of social assistance. The plan to generate tens of bil-

Euro survives 2012, further tests in store BRUSSELS: The battered euro, written off as a dud many times during a crisis-wracked year, appears to have survived 2012, but 2013 could prove just as difficult if the economy continues to struggle. It finished the year strongly after the 17 euro-zone nations earlier this month nailed down a deal to supply long-delayed bailout funds to Greece to keep the country afloat, and the bloc intact.

Athens in turn delivered on its part of the bargain-more stinging austerity, economic reforms and a tight budget-all with the aim of cutting its massive debt burden to a more sustainable 124 percent of GDP by 2020.

Then progress towards tighter economic and fiscal coordination in the euro-zone, and a key first step towards a shared bank supervision regime, rounded out the gains, leaving the Europe in much better shape than seemed likely at the beginning of the year. “Many observers felt it was all over for Greece (and its) ... remaining in the euro-zone. As yearend approaches, we know that these Casandras were wrong,” EU Economics Commissioner Olli Rehn said.

For many months, all analysts could talk about was Greece’s likely exit from the euro-zone and what it would mean for the bloc’s future.

Now, “the likelihood of a member state leaving the euro-zone is gone,” said Janis Emmanouilidis of the European Policy Centre (EPC) thinktank. Reflecting the change,

Standard and Poor’s raised Greece’s sovereign debt rating by a massive six notches because of what it termed the “strong determination of... (euro-zone) member states to preserve Greek membership.”

Greek Finance Minister Yannis Stournaras said the decision “was a very important one that created a climate of optimism.

But we know that the road is still long and hard, the hour is not one for easing up.” Analysts also highlighted agreement on the eurozone’s Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM) to regulate its banks, a first step in ring-fencing lenders who get into trouble and threaten financial disaster.

Perhaps the key breakthrough, giving purpose and backing to the other reforms, was A commitment

by European Central Bank head Mario Draghi over the summer months to do anything necessary to save the euro. In September, Draghi said the ECB would buy up the sovereign debt of any euro-zone member state without limit, if that is what it took to keep the financial markets in check. This pledge of ‘Outright Monetary Transactions’ meant markets’ could no longer enjoy a one-way bet against a member state as the ECB could step in on its side. The immediate result was a sharp easing in borrowing costs, especially for Spain and Italy which had been tipped to follow Greece, Ireland and Portugal in needing a bailout. — AFP

BEIJING: An employee dressed in a God of Fortune costume waits for customers with his colleague outside their souvenir shop on Qianmen street, a spot frequented by tourists. — AP

VIVA launches Nokia Lumia 920 smartphone KUWAIT: VIVA, Kuwait’s fastest-growing telecom operator, announced yesterday the launch of the latest Nokia Lumia 920 Windows phone with a subsidized annual plan tailored to suit its customer’s needs. One of VIVA’s main priorities is to continuously stay up to date and offer all that is new to its customers, hence, the latest Nokia smartphone is now available through a package that has been designed with the aim to suit every customer’s need.

The Nokia Lumia 920 package comes with local calls, local SMS text

messages and high speed reliable internet service. Customers will experience the Nokia Lumia 920 for FREE once subscribing to the KD30 package with a 18 month contract. The Nokia Lumia 920 features a 4.8-inch HD Super AMOLED display with 1,280 x 720 pixel resolution at 305ppi with 1.5 Ghz dual-core processor, an 8megapixel Auto Focus rear-facing camera with a 1.9-megapixel front camera. It also features a 16/32 memory plus 1GB of RAM with microSD and 1GB of RAM.

he world economy has experienced a very volatile 2012 and at times very heated arguments among politicians and central bankers, but it seems that it has finished the year on the mend and possibly in much better shape than the start of the year. Thanks to Quantitative Easing measures taken by some central banks led by the US Federal Reser vechairman Ben Bernanke. The latest GDP numbers from the US shows that the economy is again powering ahead. A GDP growth of just over 3 percent is indeed very welcome news for the world economy.

What we need for the New Year is that this growth gets cemented and other governments led by the euro0zone and Japan join the US and come up with some expansion policies and less of austerity measures.Serious measures to stimulate the world economy must be taken quickly otherwise the honey moon could soon be over and the world economy could go back to square one.

The problem is still there and it will force central banks to act again and quickly. The US Federal Reserve most likely is preparing Quantitative Easing round 4.

More probably will do more till economic growth starts generating employment on a sustainable level. As I always said if you have no credit problem and no inflation threat why not just carry on printing money till you mend the economy and it starts taking care of itself. Unfortunately, some other big economies with no credibility problems are still fighting the last war. I hope that the European central Bank carries out its promise of start buying bonds more than in the past and keep it on a sustainable level till the Eurozone economyrecover.

Wishful thinking!

The recovery and the good performance by the international stock markets are very encouraging and they usually indicate that the world economy is on the mend. It is either that or the realization that interest rates will say near zero for a long time as indicated by Ben Bernanke, and this has pushed investors into the markets looking for high dividend yields stocks or in some areas growth potentials. My own feeling is that markets make good economists so the rally this year will be followed by the world

T

economy picking up for the next few years. I think the massive stimulus and liquidity pumping are good enough reasons to see further economic recovery and hence good equity market performance next year. But may be some consolidation is warranted.

I personally think that international investors who have missed the rally this year or they are still not sure about the outlook should start investing again. Let me put it this way; if central banks believe that Quantitative Easing works and the benefits outweigh the costs then they will continue to pursue it till they see good and sustainable economic recovery which can only be good for equity markets. My advice to international equity investors is not to buck the trend.

I think the world central banks will shortly follow the US Federal Reserve and ease monetary policy even further. By doing so they will be trying very hard to support asset prices as we have just seen a shift in policy by the new Japanese Prime Minister.

The new Japanese Prime Minister has asked the Bank of Japan to have inflation target of 2 percent. This to lift the economy out of the deflation spiral which has been experiencing for years.

But in the process we will see much weaker Japanese Yen. Again good news for the stock market. Households around the world are taking advantage of record low interest rates and this has been proved in the US housing market recovery.

The recover y of the world economy in 2013 will be very good for international equities.

There is a very high probability that there will be a catch up by some markets which have performed badly this year. I think countries such as Spain, Greece, and France have become more competitive than few years ago and this has not yet been reflected in the valuation of their stock markets. There are now great investment opportunities in what I term Big Names/Small Caps. I.e. some big multinationals in Spain, Greece, France have seen their market capitalization fallen sharply and in a way become small caps for big international investors. I could see the year of 2013 as the year of mega Merger & Acquisitions times.

—Hayder Tawfik is the Executive Vice-President of Asset Management at Dimah Capital

EXCHANGE RATES Commercial Bank of Kuwait US Dollar/KD GB Pound/KD Euro Swiss francs Canadian Dollar Australian DLR Indian rupees Sri Lanka Rupee UAE dirhams Bahraini dinars Jordanian dinar Saudi riyals Omani riyals Egyptian pounds

.2740000 .4510000 .3650000 .3010000 .2830000 .2940000 .0040000 .0020000 .0762300 .7426870 .3880000 .0720000 .7280720 .0430000

CUSTOMER TRANSFER RATES US Dollar/KD .2808000 GB Pound/KD .4532670 Euro .3673990 Swiss francs .3031740 Canadian dollars .2852790 Danish Kroner .0492470 Swedish Kroner .0420500 Australian dlr .2963280 Hong Kong dlr .0362310 Singapore dlr .2299190 Japanese yen .0033600 Indian Rs/KD .0000000 Sri Lanka rupee .0000000 Pakistan rupee .0000000 Bangladesh taka .0000000 UAE dirhams .0764810 Bahraini dinars .7451240 Jordanian dinar .0000000 Saudi Riyal/KD .0749000 Omani riyals .7296350 Philippine Peso .0000000

Al-Muzaini Exchange Co. ASIAN COUNTRIES

Japanese Yen Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Srilankan Rupees Nepali Rupees Singapore Dollar Hongkong Dollar Bangladesh Taka Philippine Peso Thai Baht Irani Riyal - transfer Irani Riyal - cash

3.342 5.145 2.871 2.186 3.220 231.580 36.335 3.455 6.852 9.205 0.271 0.273

.2840000 .4620000 .3740000 .3120000 .2930000 .3030000 .0067500 .0035000 .0769960 .7501510 .4060000 .0770000 .7353900 .0510000 .2829000 .4566570 .3701460 .3054420 .2874120 .0496150 .0423650 .2985440 .0365020 .2316380 .0033850 .0052480 .0022060 .0029160 .0035230 .0770530 .7506970 .4001410 .0754600 .7350920 .0069410

Saudi Riyal Qatari Riyal Omani Riyal Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham

GCC COUNTRIES 75.123 77.405 731.710 748.240 76.709

ARAB COUNTRIES Egyptian Pound - Cash 47.700 Egyptian Pound - Transfer 45.561 Yemen Riyal/for 1000 1.314 Tunisian Dinar 181.970 Jordanian Dinar 397.380 Lebanese Lira/for 1000 1.890 Syrian Lier 3.060 Morocco Dirham 33.928 EUROPEAN & AMERICAN COUNTRIES US Dollar Transfer 281.600 Euro 374.250 Sterling Pound 459.570 Canadian dollar 286.470 Turkish lire 158.390 Swiss Franc 309.960 Australian dollar 297.090 US Dollar Buying 280.400 GOLD 319.000 161.000 83.500

20 Gram 10 Gram 5 Gram

Australian dollar Bahraini dinar Bangladeshi taka Canadian dollar Cyprus pound Czek koruna Danish krone Deutsche Mark Egyptian pound Euro Cash Hongkong dollar Indian rupees Indonesia Iranian tuman Iraqi dinar Japanese yen Jordanian dinar Lebanese pound Malaysian ringgit Morocco dirham Nepalese Rupees New Zealand dollar Nigeria

SELL CASH

301.000 750.090 3.690 289.600 553.900 46.000 50.400 167.800 47.900 375.300 37.080 5.490 0.032 0.161 0.242 3.480 399.700 0.191 94.000 45.500 4.340 242.200 1.827

51.400 732.630 3.080 7.220 78.020 75.310 232.810 35.230 2.686 459.700 43.200 310.800 3.400 9.580 198.263 76.900 282.400 1.360

732.450 2.915 6.886 77.590 75.310 232.810 35.230 2.192 457.700 309.300 3.400 9.400 76.800 282.000

GOLD 1,807.790

10 Tola Sterling Pound US Dollar

COUNTRY

Currency

TRAVELLER’S CHEQUE 457.700 282.000

SELL DRAFT

300.100 750.090 3.497 288.100

232.800 45.830 373.800 36.930 5.210 0.031

SELL DRAFT

Australian Dollar Canadian Dollar Swiss Franc Euro US Dollar Sterling Pound Japanese Yen Bangladesh Taka Indian Rupee Sri Lankan Rupee Nepali Rupee Pakistani Rupee UAE Dirhams Bahraini Dinar Egyptian Pound Jordanian Dinar Omani Riyal Qatari Riyal Saudi Riyal

301.89 290.16 311.87 373.94 281.25 458.58 3.45 3.479 5.173 2.194 3.236 2.886 76.64 748.87 45.66 400.69 731.98 77.67 75.21

SELL CASH

300.000 289.000 311.000 372.250 282.500 458.500 3.690 3.620 5.460 2.330 3.600 3.100 77.200 748.000 47.700 398.500 734.000 77.850 75.500

Dollarco Exchange Co. Ltd 399.660 0.190 95.900 3.260 240.700

Rate for Transfer

US Dollar Canadian Dollar Sterling Pound Euro

Selling Rate

281.350 284.945 458.465 372.425

Swiss Frank Bahrain Dinar UAE Dirhams Qatari Riyals Saudi Riyals Jordanian Dinar Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupees Indian Rupees Pakistani Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Pesso Cyprus pound Japanese Yen Thai Bhat Syrian Pound Nepalese Rupees Malaysian Ringgit

308.480 744.865 76.580 77.225 74.990 396.605 45.571 2.182 5.134 2.881 3.472 6.846 690.150 4.340 9.285 4.365 3.305 92.155

Kuwait Bahrain Intl Exchange Co.

UAE Exchange Centre WLL

Bahrain Exchange Company COUNTRY

Norwegian krone Omani Riyal Pakistani rupees Philippine peso Qatari riyal Saudi riyal Singapore dollar South Africa Sri Lankan rupees Sterling pound Swedish krona Swiss franc Syrian pound Thai bhat Tunisian dollar UAE dirham U.S. dollars Yemeni Riyal

Rate per 1000 (Tran)

US Dollar Pak Rupees Indian Rupees Sri Lankan Rupees Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso UAE Dirhams Saudi Riyals Bahraini Dinars Egyptian Pounds Pound Sterling Indonesian Rupiah Yemeni Riyal Euro Canadian Dollars Nepali rupee

281.600 2.884 5.191 2.205 3.458 6.885 76.775 75.250 748.600 45.619 459.400 2.990 1.550 375.000 291.600 3.265

Al Mulla Exchange Currency

Transfer Rate (Per 1000)

US Dollar Euro Pound Sterling Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen Indian Rupee Egyptian Pound Sri Lankan Rupee Bangladesh Taka Philippines Peso Pakistan Rupee Bahraini Dinar UAE Dirham Saudi Riyal *Rates are subject to change

281.000 374.200 459.200 286.150 3.370 5.105 45.558 2.230 3.480 6.830 2.885 748.200 76.500 75.000

23

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

BUSINESS

‘Fiscal cliff’ continues to weigh on risk sentiments Housing sector continues to stabilize NBK WEEKLY MONEY MARKET REPORT The dollar dropped against most of its major counterparts at mid-week as news of negotiations between President Obama and Republican leader John Bhoener signaled that an agreement might be reached before Christmas, fuelling risk appetite in the market.

However, the risk rally was limited as the republican leaders cancelled a vote on House Speaker John Boehner’s effort and as bi-partisan negotiations has stalled, adding to expectations that no deal would be reached before the holidays.

The dollar index dropped to a low of 79.00 after opening the week at 79.58.

The index continued to trade sideways to close the week at 79.61.

The euro opened the week at 1.3163 and gained dramatically against the greenback mid-week to reach a high of 1.3308 as the credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s raised Greece’s sovereign credit rating by six notches combined with positive news on the US fiscal cliff negotiations. However, the currency followed sentiments and dropped as US bipartisan talks deteriorated to reach 1.3144. The single currency finally closed the week at 1.3188.

The pound followed suit as it gained against the greenback mid-week to reach a high of 1.6307 after opening the week at 1.6174. The Pound lost its gains to breach the 1.6175 level amid news that consumers are more pessimistic than expected. Finally, the currency reached a low of 1.6152 and closed the week at 1.6172.

The yen fell to a 20-month low against the dollar and stocks rose to an eight-month high on expectations that Japan’s newly elected prime minister will expand monetary and fiscal stimulus in a bid to defeat deflation. The USDJPY reached a high of 84.62 but quickly dropped as concerns over the US fiscal cliff intensified. The currency closed the

week at 84.24, despite statements from a senior LDP member that they want the USDJPY to trade between 85.00 and 90.00.

Fiscal cliff negotiations update On Tuesday, hopes that policymakers in Washington will reach a deal to avert a sharp fiscal contraction surged as President Barack Obama and congressional Republicans showed signs of compromise. In a major counteroffer that moves the two parties closer to resolving their standoff, Obama offered to accept $1.22 trillion in spending cuts in exchange for $1.2 trillion from higher tax revenue, including increased rates on those earning more than $400,000 a year, above his previous threshold of $250,000.

Whereas, Republican leader John Boehner’s latest proposal calls for $1 trillion in new tax revenue, which would come from raising rates and limiting deductions that the wealthiest can take.

He has also put forward a tax increase for those earning over $1 million annually.

Late Thursday evening, Boehner said that his so-called “Plan B” tax proposal lacked enough support to pass. The cancelled vote has once again highlighted the risk that Washington will not be able to reach a deal by year-end to avert the imminent “fiscal cliff”.

Unemployment claims The number of Americans filing for jobless claims rose for the first time in 5weeks, a sign that further improvement in the labor market depends on faster economic growth. Claims increased by 17,000 to 361,000 last week. The numbers also signal that the economy needs to grow at a faster pace to encourage companies to step up hiring while politicians debate the country’s budget and taxes.

GDP revised upwards to reach 3.1% The US economy grew at a 3.1 percent

annual rate in the third quarter, more than previously reported, reflecting the first gain in state and local government spending in three years, more consumer purchases and a smaller trade gap. The revised gross domestic product reading exceeded expectations and the previously estimated 2.7 percent gain. This puts growth in the US in tandem with positive labor market and housing figures in Q3 but adds pressure on the economy to maintain that growth rate give its current situation.

The housing sector continues to stabilize Existing home sales beat expectations in November. Sales advanced by 5.9 percent from October to an annualized 5.09 million units, 14.5 percent above the previous year. In parallel, Builders in November capped the strongest three months for residential construction in four years and permits climbed as recordlow borrowing costs buoyed the US housing market. Starts fell 3 percent to an 861,000 annual rate from a revised 888,000 annual pace in October.

Manufacturing in Philadelphia expands Manufacturing in the Philadelphia region unexpectedly expanded in December to an eight month high reflecting pickups in sales and orders that indicate that the industry is starting to stabilize. The Philly Fed Manufacturing Index rose to 8.1 from minus 10.1 in November, whereas a reading above 0 indicates expansion in the area.

Europe S&P upgrades Greek debt by six notches Rating agency Standard & Poor’s raised Greece’s sovereign credit rating to B-minus with a stable outlook from

selective default, citing Europe’s efforts to keep the country part of the EU and the completion of its distressed debt buyback last week. After the news, prices on the country’s government bonds rallied to their highest level since a debt restructuring back in March.

Furthermore, the European Central Bank decided to re-accept Greek government bonds at its monetary-policy operations.

“The upgrade reflects our view of the strong determination of European Economic and Monetary Union member states to preserve Greek membership in the Euro zone,” S&P said. They also added that “The outlook on the longterm rating is stable, balancing our view of the government’s commitment to a fiscal and structural adjustment against the economic and political challenges of doing so.”

German Ifo Business Climate German business confidence increased for a second month in December, signaling Europe’s largest economy may support a Euro-area recovery next year. The Ifo institute’s business climate index, based on a survey of 7,000 executives, climbed to 102.4 from 101.4 in November. That’s the second straight increase after sentiment dropped to a 2 1/2 year low in October.

The figure also exceeded economists’ expectations of a gain to 102.0.

United Kingdom Consumer confidence deteriorates UK Consumer Confidence fell in December from an 18-month high as optimism about the outlook for the economy plunged. The Gfk confidence index fell to minus 29 from minus 22 in November, which was the strongest reading since May 2011. Retail sales figures showed that shoppers are holding back holiday shopping while the

recovery struggles to gain momentum.

Retail sales UK retail sales unexpectedly stagnated in November as spending at department stores slumped the most in two years. Sales including fuel were unchanged from October, when they fell by 0.7 percent. The figure adds to signs of weakness in consumer spending in the build-up to the holiday shopping season.

Increases in electricity and fuel prices are keeping pressure on consumers as inflation continues to outpace wages.

Japan BoJ monetary policy statement The Bank of Japan expanded its assetpurchase program for the third time in four months, and will reconsider its objectives for inflation as incoming Prime Minister Shinzo Abe urges more action to end price declines. The central bank increased the asset-purchase fund to 76 trillion yen ($906 billion) from 66 trillion yen, according to a statement released in Tokyo today. The BOJ kept its credit-lending program unchanged at 25 trillion Yen. The expanded purchases failed to halt gains in the yen, which reversed three days of declines today as investors sought a haven amid concerns at a deadlock in US budget talks. Abe, whose party swept to victory in this week’s election, will have a chance to reshape the BOJ early next year when the terms of Governor Masaaki Shirakawa and his two deputies expire.

He is pressing for a 2 percent inflation target, compared with an existing 1 percent goal.

Kuwait Kuwaiti Dinar at 0.28100 The USDKD opened at 0.28100 yesterday morning.

Syria’s battered pound floats on rebel funds Foreign cash flows, central bank cushion pound’s fall AMMAN: In Syria’s eastern town of Deir Al-Zor, a rebel commander flush with cash was swapping his dollars for Syrian pounds to pay fighters battling President Bashar Al-Assad’s forces. Money changers said that influx of foreign currency earlier this month helped push the pound’s black market rate in the impoverished town up by at least 10 percent. Hundreds of kilometres away in Damascus, panicked Syrians bracing for more violence sold pounds for dollars, driving the pound, which has lost half its value since the anti-Assad uprising erupted in March last year, the other way.

The events at opposite ends of the country illustrate the contrasting pressures on a currency whose sharp decline has been cushioned by factors including central bank intervention, flows of cash from Assad’s friends and foes abroad, and even long term hopes for a wave of foreign investment if Assad were to fall. By comparison, Iran, Assad’s staunchest regional ally, has seen its own currency fall more sharply than Syria’s, losing about two-thirds of its value since June 2011 because of Western sanctions imposed over Tehran’s disputed nuclear programme.

Damascus-based currency dealer Abdullah Abu Saloum, who also has an office in Deir al-Zor, said the rebel fighter’s cash was one of many anomalies affecting Syria’s foreign exchange market.

“There was a large quantity of dollars that were offered for sale at an attractive price,” he said, adding ruefully that he was not able to capitalise on the opportunity because the ongoing violence, which has killed more than 40,000 people, prevented him transferring pounds from Damascus to Deir Al-Zor. “When problems grow, people decide to buy dollars, not sell dollars, but this is what Syria’s conflict is producing-all types of distortions and contradictions.” The pound is trading at 94 to the dollar on the black market compared to 48 before the uprising - a steep fall but less calamitous than might be expected given the devastating loss of state revenues and long term damage wrought by the conflict.

Tipping point It hit a record low of 105 to the dollar earlier this year before recovering slightly, even allowing the central bank to recoup some losses from its heavy intervention by buying back dollars as they eased slightly, bankers say. A banker in a Damascus-based subsidiary of a regional bank said cash flows to the Deir Al-Zor rebel commander and his comrades were partly responsible for the pound’s resilience.

“All the money sent to the opposition comes in foreign currency and this is supplying the market with dollars and keeping the pound afloat,” he said. Assad’s foreign backers have also helped.

“The only logical explanation why the regime is able to defend the pound ... is the aid it is primarily getting from Iran,” said Samir Seifan, a prominent Syrian economist living abroad, adding that Russia and Iraq were also providing support. Iraq’s Shiite government has “opened its trade, helping the country get foreign currency”, he said.

Baghdad has given preferential access to Syrian exports since the crisis, making it Syria’s main trading partner as Gulf and Turkish flows dry up.

Central Bank moves At one stage last year, Syria’s central bank supplied dollars relatively freely to stabilise the exchange rate; bankers estimated it spent an average $500 million every month. It also sought to manage a multi-tier exchange regime as part of its efforts to stem the decline - including one for importers buying raw materials and another set daily by the Central Bank to cover other financial transactions.

But the intervention came at a price. Syrian officials say Central Bank reserves stood at around $18 billion before the crisis, and regional bankers say those reserves have diminished by at least a half to around $8 billion. As the crisis deepens, authorities’ ability to maintain the pound’s relative stability is being strained, with signs that the central bank is less able to intervene effectively, several exchange dealers contacted by telephone from Damascus said.

“The Central Bank is no longer pumping dollars. The supply is low and the demand is high from the black market, so the dollar has gone up,” Wael Halawani, a money changer in the main Seven Lakes business area in central Damascus said. In the last month alone, as the conflict reached the edge of Assad’s power base in Damascus, the pound shed 15 percent. Bankers said the absence of central bank response was notable.

To conserve scarce foreign reserves, the monetary authorities have also stopped selling up to $5,000 to Syrians at preferential rates for personal use, undermining a key hallmark of the multi-tier exchange rate regime. They had already halved the entitlement from $10,000, and also priced the exchange rate for personal use closer to the black market rate, said one exchange dealer.

Even importers, who are supposed to have priority access to foreign currency at around 77 pounds to the dollar, said they were finding it hard to get hold of dollars. Last month the Central Bank sought to give the state-run Commercial Bank of Syria exclusive rights on foreign exchange

after complaints that currency dealers were exploiting the discounted import rate to sell on to the black market.

“They would take dollars and not channel them to real importers. We would go to a leading exchange dealer who would say ‘Dollars in such quantities are not available’, and in fact they would have taken $3 million and hoarded it,” said a prominent importer of foodstuffs. But bankers say the move to curb currency dealerships just put more pressure on the pound at a time when central bank intervention had fallen sharply from around $15 million a day.

“For almost a month they have been injecting no more than $1 million a day and this is not helping the pound,” said a banker. The cumulative impact of reduced intervention and a move away from the multi-tier exchange rage could bring Syria closer to allowing its official rate to fall to the prevailing market rates and may amount to a recognition that reserves could no longer be run down rapidly to defend the currency, bankers said.

But rebel funds are taking over in large parts of Syria. “As long as there are large infusions of dollars coming to the rebels there will not be a total collapse of the Syrian currency and only if it dries up then we will see a free fall of the currency and we will see increasing dollarisation of the economy,” said Samir Aita, a prominent Syrian economist who before the uprising was involved in economic decisionmaking.

Some businessmen see a gleam of hope if the conflict can be brought to a close, either by a political deal or a military victory by the rebels who are backed by wealthy Gulf Arab states.

Many expatriate Syrian businessmen who transferred their wealth abroad during 40 years of rule by Assad and his father, late President Hafez al-Assad, would be likely to repatriate some of their savings. Syria, often cut off from international finance over the last four decades, could also attract significant international inflows of money. —Reuters

Markets hail ‘Draghi year’ PARIS: Financial markets began to rebound in 2012 with help from central banks, and now head into 2013 with hopes of economic growth in China and the United States while keeping a wary eye on the situation in the euro-zone. “In 2012, there will clearly be a ‘before’ and an ‘after’ Draghi,” said Aurel BGC broker Jean-Louis Mourier in reference to European Central Bank (ECB) chief Mario Draghi. Early in the year, tension on financial markets had spiked owing in part to the deterioration of the Spanish economy and the government’s financial position.

But in late July, Draghi said that the ECB was “ready to do whatever it takes to preserve the euro,” and turned the tide against speculators who were betting on a full-blown euro-zone crisis. In September, the central bank unveiled one of its most effective tools to date, a bondbuying programme dubbed Outright Monetary Transactions or OMTs to underpin the debt of countries that that have sought help from European rescue funds.

The programme has not been used to date, mainly because its very announcement reassured investors and the fact that Spain has done its best to avoid seeking a bailout similar to those which were granted to Greece, Ireland and Portugal. “No matter. The ECB has now built a very effective firewall. The public debt crisis is not over, countries will need years to get back within their budget limits, but the risk that represented on financial markets has essentially disappeared,” Mourier said.

The scenario of Greece being forced to pull out of the 17-nation euro-zone has also faded into the background, while moves towards a common euro-zone banking supervisor and structural reforms in Italy and Spain have bolstered investor confidence as well. Major European stock markets have taken note and as of December 20, Paris showed a gain of 16 percent from the beginning of the year, while London was up by 7.0 percent and Frankfurt by 30 percent. —AFP

WASHINGTON: Speaker of the House John Boehner speaks to reporters about the fiscal cliff negotiations at the Capitol in Washington. —AP

MENA professionals feel positive about 2013 Bayt.com survey DUBAI: According to a recent “MENA professionals New Year Resolutions”poll conducted by Bayt.com, the region’s number one job site, 75.3 percent of MENA professionals are feeling positive about ushering in 2013. The New Year marks a time to reflect, act and make lasting changes to longstanding issues.

In line with this premise, 56.4 percent of the poll’s respondents admit to making resolutions on the cusp of a new year, with a staggering 76.3 percent already decided on which work-related goals they are seeking to accomplish in 2013. Interestingly, more than three quarters (82.3 percent) of respondents succeed in attaining resolutions, not breaking the promises until they have been fulfilled. On a more personal front, of those who have made resolutions for the next year, 19.1 percent would like to save more money, 17.8 percent intend to enhance their personal grooming, 12.8 percent are looking to spend more quality time with family and a mere 9.2 percent plan on taking additional time off from work.

“With 13 years of operations under Bayt.com’s belt, our members have access to the tools and technology they need to empower them to find the career they desire and ensure that their career aspirations are met for the new year,” said Suhail Masri, VP of Sales at Bayt.com. “We have a lot of exciting plans for 2013, where we are presenting professionals in the MENA region with the opportunity to carve out their online footprint, which is an increasingly essential component to the employment market.”

In terms of end-of-year preparations at the workplace,73.6 percent of respondents said that they undergo appraisals in their respective companies. A large portion of MENA’s job-

holders (48 percent) are set to request a higher salary for 2013, and 19 percent are striving for a higher position or better title.The system of year-end appraisals is regarded as highly effective by 63 percent of employees -a figure strongly indicative of their need for performance reviews and objectives. In terms of frequency, 17.3 percent believe that appraisals should be year-round, rather than just towards the year’s completion.

“Assessing an individual’s job performance and productivity is key to ensuring employee growth and satisfaction,” said Masri.”Determining career progress, milestones and expectations can significantly help employees achieve peak performance and pave a path to career advancement. From an employer’s perspective, this system enables them to boost employees’ confidence, identify strengths and weaknesses and improve overall effectiveness. While the frequenc y of appraisals depends on the organization, what remains pivotal is that the process delivers optimal results and brings out the best of employees all year long.”

When asked if they were pleased with their 2012 personal and professional growth, a majority of 34 percent said they were happy with both. The outlook is extremely positive for the year to come, with 75.3 percent of professionals feeling positive about 2013 and 57.9 percent of professionals are confident of their ability to make 2013 their best year yet. Data for the Bayt.com ‘New Year’s Resolutions’ poll was collected from December 4-December 20, 2012, with 6,655 respondents covering more than 12 countries in the MENA region.

24

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

BUSINESS

Top business story in ’12: Lethargic global economy This would be the year when the global economy finally regained its vigor. At least that’s what many had hoped. It didn’t happen. The three largest economies - the United States, China and Japan - struggled again in 2012. The 17 countries that use the euro endured a third painful year in their financial crisis and slid into recession. Emerging economies slowed.

President Barack Obama defied predictions by sailing to re-election. And his landmark health care plan surprisingly survived Supreme Court review. Obama’s re-election triggered a faceoff with Republicans over averting the “fiscal cliff” - the drastic spending cuts and tax increases that were set to kick in Jan. 1.

The tech world dueled over smartphones and tablets and saw Facebook’s IPO sour as fast as it had sizzled. The housing market inched toward recovery. And Americans suffered both a catastrophic drought and a catastrophic superstorm. Least surprisingly, perhaps, another gallery of rogues brought investigative scrutiny to Wall Street. The achingly slow global economic recovery was chosen as the top business story of the year by business editors at The Associated Press. The US presidential election came in second, followed by the Supreme Court’s upholding Obama’s health-care plan.

1. The global economy: Worldwide growth was slack again in 2012. The global economy grew just 3.3 percent, down from 3.8 percent in 2011 and 5.1 percent in 2010, the International Monetary Fund estimates. The US economy, the world’s largest, failed to gain traction. Five years after a recession seized the economy and more than three years after it

ended, growth in the United States was only about 2 percent. Unemployment remained a high 7.7 percent.

Europe fared worse. Its financial crisis did stabilize, thanks in part to the European Central Bank’s plan to buy government bonds to help countries manage their debts. But the euro alliance sank into recession. Europeans, in turn, held back China, the world’s No. 2 economy, by cutting back on Chinese goods.

China’s economy grew at a 7.4 percent annual rate in the July-September quarter. Though a scorching pace for developed countries, that marked a 31/2-year low for China. And at year’s end, Japan’s economy, the world’s thirdlargest, was shrinking.

2. US presidential election: Obama vaulted to a re-election victory over Mitt Romney, who had staked his bid on the weakest US economic rebound since the Great Depression and had pledged to slash taxes.

Unemployment under Obama topped 8 percent for 43 straight months. Yet he won despite the highest unemployment rate of any president seeking re-election since World War II. Voters assigned him higher marks on the economy as the year progressed, perhaps encouraged by job gains. As the fiscal cliff neared, Obama fought to raise taxes on the highest-earning Americans. He also demanded aid for the long-term unemployed and money for roads, bridges and other infrastructure. Economists raised hopes that if the fiscal cliff was averted, the gloom would lift in Obama’s second term.

3. Obama health care plan upheld: The Supreme Court caught many by surprise when

it backed Obama administration’s health care reform in a 5-4 vote. The law requires Americans to buy insurance or pay a tax, while subsidizing the needy. Hospitals and health insurers will likely benefit from 30 million new customers. Medical device makers, though, will face a new sales tax. And some small businesses say the law will discourage hiring because it requires companies to provide health care once they employ more than 50.

4. The fiscal cliff: A dreaded package of tax increases and deep spending cuts to domestic and defense programs loomed over the economy in the year’s final months. Negotiators struggled to forge a budget deal to avert those measures. If they failed, the tax increases and spending cuts would kick in Jan 1. That threat was intended to be so chilling that it would force Congress and the White House to take the painful budgetary steps needed to avoid it. Economists warned that if the fiscal cliff measures remained in place for much of 2013, they would cause a recession.

5. Facebook’s IPO: Years of anticipation led to Facebook’s initial public offering of stock the hottest Internet IPO since Google’s in 2004. Many of the billion or so users of the world’s largest online social network craved a chance to buy in early. On the eve of its first trading day, Facebook’s market value was $104 billion - more than Amazon.com’s or McDonald’s at the time. Yet the IPO bombed.

Its debut was marred by technical glitches with the Nasdaq exchange, allegations that a revenue gap wasn’t publicly disclosed and complaints that the IPO had been priced too high. Traders lost confidence fast. Within three

months, Facebook’s stock had shed more than half its IPO value.

6. Housing recovery: After a six-year slump that sent more than 4 million homes into foreclosure and shrank home prices about onethird nationwide, the US housing market began to recover in mid-year. Modest job gains and record-low mortgage rates fueled demand. And the supply of available homes sank. By June, prices began rising. And builders broke ground on the most homes in four years. Housing boosted economic growth this year for the first time since 2005.

7. The return of big oil: Domestic crude oil production achieved its biggest one-year gain since 1951, driven by output in North Dakota and Texas. The United States is on pace to pass Saudi Arabia as the world’s top oil producer within two years. Credit goes to drilling improvements, like those that have fed a boom in domestic natural-gas production horizontal drilling combined with hydraulic fracturing, or fracking. The new production helped cut natural gas prices to their lowest levels in more than a decade. Higher oil production helped reduce oil imports to 1992 levels and hand record profits to US refiners.

Gasoline prices declined in the last three months of the year. But for all of 2012, the average gallon was a record $3.63.

8. Banks behaving badly: It was a banner year for bank drama. JPMorgan Chase lost $6 billion in a complex series of trades. And one of its bankers in London grew famous for big bets and became known as the “London whale.” Morgan Stanley was accused of botching Facebook’s IPO. An ex-banker trashed

Goldman Sachs for putting profits ahead of customers and for mocking clients as “muppets.” Barclays and UBS were fined for their roles in manipulating a key global interest rate. And HSBC agreed to pay $1.9 billion to settle charges that it enabled money laundering by Mexican drug traffickers.

9. Mother nature: There wasn’t enough rain in much of the nation. Then, suddenly there was much too much. The nation suffered its worst drought since the 1950s, covering 80 percent of US farmland. Grain and food prices soared. Then a storm so destructive it was dubbed a “superstorm” walloped the Northeast. Sandy blasted coastal New Jersey and New York and put 8.5 million customers in 21 states in the dark. Sandy will likely end up as the second-costliest US storm ever after Hurricane Katrina.

10. Mobile-gadget wars: Competition in mobile technology intensified. Apple maintained its worldwide dominance. But the use of Google’s Android software on competing smartphones and tablets spread faster than Apple’s market share. Forty-four percent of US adults own smartphones, up from about 35 percent a year ago. Tablet ownership doubled in 2012. Taking on Apple’s iPad, Microsoft unleashed its Surface tablet and began selling Windows 8, a tablet-friendly operating system.

Amazon and Barnes & Noble rushed out highdefinition-screen tablets. Each priced its premium model less than the entry-level iPad. Apple struck back with the iPad Mini.

Struggling to compete, once-formidable Nokia and BlackBerry-maker Research In Motion floundered. —AP

Taiwan Trade Center located in Kuwait City KUWAIT: Taiwan Trade Center has started offering its service in Kuwait. The Chairman of Taiwan Trade Center, PhD. Chih-Kang Wang said, “TAITRA’s major function is to help Taiwanese businesses and manufacturers to promote their international business and increase their competitiveness to cope with challenges in foreign markets. We also help to match Taiwanese suppliers and foreign buyers to explore trade opportunities in the world. Right now, we have over 1,200 trained staff stationed throughout the Taipei headquarters, four local branch offices and 56 overseas offices around the world, including 10 in Mainland China and the 56th branch office here in Kuwait City.”

Kuwait is known as one of leading oil producer and holds about 1/10 of world’s oil. For this reason, the government revenue and expenditure of Kuwait ranks 1st place among the GCC and the GDP per capita of Kuwait is incredibly high, especially the boutique consumption ability of Kuwait. Kuwait is one of the GCC members, and in the recent years, this region has seen a rapid and stable growth. Kuwait has a vast hinterland; from southern of Iraq and northern of Saudi, these became an

available re-export market. Since a long time, Kuwait’s trading circles have largely involved the MENA; therefore Kuwait is rich in trading experience and international human resource.

Many Taiwanese enterprises started out as SMEs, however after undergoing several years of development, these enterprises have fully grown, especially in high-tech Industries had. According to Information Technology Outlook 2010 report that was published by OECD, this report pointed out the Top 250 ICT [Information and Communication Technology] firms. Taiwan had occupied the 18th place; and in the list of 44 global economies, Taiwan ranked 3rd place, after United States and Japan.

According to the Competitive Industrial Performance Report issued by the UN Industrial Development Organization on March 15, 2012, Taiwan’s MVA per capita is $5,101, the eighth highest in the world. The World’s third Most Entrepreneurial Society according to MD, Taiwan ranks 6th place in EIU’s Global Innovation Index 2009-2013. The 11th rank on Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) among the major OCED countries and number one in “International Exhibition of

Inventions of Geneva.

Taiwan has various high quality products across different fields, auto parts, electronic device, agriculture and food products, textile and clothing, biotech products, construction materials, and medical supplies etc. Taiwan has excellent quality of boutique and it is popular in European and American market, including HTC smartphone, Acer computers, Asus computers, Franz, Luxgen automobile and so on. These are Taiwanese brands which are well known internationally. Currently nearly every Toyota Corola and Mitsubishi Lancer in Kuwait is made in Taiwan and only some of these products might be found in Kuwait.

Taiwan’s research and development capabilities in IT products, and precision machineries seem to be a perfect opportunity to cooperate with Kuwait SMEs. Since Kuwait has a vast hinterland from southern of Iraq and northern of Saudi, these became an available re-export market. Taiwan’s green energy, software, electronics, textile fibers, food processing and agriculture industries could expand and cooperate with Kuwait. We believe that there is a bright future ahead for Taiwan-Kuwait partnership.

ROME: A construction worker pauses to look at an inflatable balloon, on a scaffolding. The Italian economy, the third-largest among the 17 European Union countries that use the euro, is in recession as the government has enacted spending cuts and tax hikes to get a handle on its debt. —AP

Nordic economies cool over chill breeze of euro-zone STOCKHOLM: Sweden slashed its economic growth forecasts late last week, becoming the third Nordic country to do so in a move that highlights the troubled euro-zone’s impact on its trading partners. The Swedish government cut its gross domestic product (GDP) projection for 2013 to 1.1 percent, compared with a 2.7 percent estimate in September. This year it sees the economy growing by just 0.9 percent, compared with an earlier forecast of 1.6 percent. “It’s becoming increasingly clear that the crisis in Europe and the events in the US are having a renewed effect on employment and growth in Sweden. We can expect a poor year in 2013,” Finance Minister Anders Borg said in a statement. The centre-right government, which has been in power since 2006, said it now believes Swedish unemployment will rise next year to 8.2 percent from an average rate of 7.7 percent this year. Analysts mostly back its view. “Unemployment will inevitably rise in 2013,” Handelsbanken’s Anders Brunstedt wrote in a research note.

But the country, praised by the OECD

on Monday for its handling of the economy during the European crisis, is not alone in feeling the effects of the uncertainty surrounding the euro-zone.

Neighbouring Denmark, which had already been dipping in and out of recession as its banks buckle under a 25percent fall in property prices, last week admitted that it too had been too optimistic on future growth.

The Danish government lowered its growth projections for next year to 1.2 percent from the 1.7 percent level stated in August, and said the economy would shrink 0.4 percent this year instead of growing 0.9 percent. The Finnish economy entered recession in the third quarter, and on Thursday the government halved its growth forecast for next year to 0.5 percent. Finnish unemployment rose to eight percent in November, its highest level in more than one and a half years. The three Nordic countries are all heavily reliant on exports, which account for around half of all output in Sweden, 40 percent in Finland, and almost a third in Denmark.

The debate over exports is particularly strong in euro-zone member Finland.

“Finnish exports have underperformed the (overall) growth in export markets” due to a large portion of investment goods, poor competitiveness and downscaling at Nokia, once the world’s largest mobile phone maker, analysts at Danske Bank wrote. In a rare move, two highprofile Finns in Europe, European Central Bank board member Erkki Liikanen and the European Commissioner for Economic Affairs Olli Rehn, have both weighed in on the matter, urging the country to improve its competitiveness and balance its budget.

But Helsinki has so far felt little pressure from voters to implement reforms, with the government’s largest coalition partner, Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen’s National Coalition Party, performing well in October’s municipal elections.

Bucking the Nordic trend is Norway, which-bolstered by its oil productionexpects its economy to grow by 3.1 percent this year and by 2.5 percent next year. —AFP

25

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

business

South Africa’s ANC eases investor angst Zuma pledges allegiance to ‘mixed economy’

GRANITE BAY: Max Schwartz, 11, poses for portrait with his dog Bear and the little box of cash, December 12, 2012, at his home in Granite Bay, California. — MCT

Gifts can be a great chance to impart money wisdom or 11-year-old Max Schwartz, the holiday gift he’s most curious about is a little box of dollar bills. Last year, as an incentive to get Max thinking about saving, spending and donating, his banker dad offered to double part of his $24 monthly allowance. In return for not touching those savings all year, his father dangled another bonus: he’d double it again at year’s end.

Twelve months later, on Christmas morning, Max opened a check-sized box. Inside was $200 in crisp dollar bills. His father, Peter Schwartz, admits he’s “way too nice” and added a bigger bonus.

Of that total, Max got to spend 70 percent, had to save 20 percent and got to choose where to donate 10 percent. When the Granite Bay, Calif, fifth-grader showed up a week later at the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals - his chosen charity - to hand over his $20 donation, the staff cheered, rang a bell and hugged him. “In one year, he learned the power of saving ... and the power of giving away,” Schwartz said of his son. Max’s dollar box is just one example of a money-mindful holiday gift. In an uneasy economy, many families like the idea of giving something that gets their kids - of any age - thinking about smart money managing.

With that in mind, here are some money-minded holiday gift ideas from parents, grandparents and money professionals: Ellen Powell, nonprofit consultant, Elk Grove, Calif: Several years ago, Powell had to start taking $2,000 a year from an IRA that her savings-minded dad left her in his will. “It’s money I never expected to have, and I thought: ‘What would my dad have wanted me to do with this money?’“ The answer: Open Roth IRA accounts for her kids, then ages 19 and 22. Every year since, she adds equal amounts to those IRAs. Creating retirement savings for her dad’s beloved grandkids is “a way of honoring him,” Powell said. “Someday that money will be worth something to them.”

Other readers had the same idea. And

F

Roth IRAs were the preferred choice because taxes are paid now, at current rates, instead of at future - presumably higher - tax rates. Susan Lyon, finance analyst, NerdWallet.com: On the receiving end, Lyon said the “best money-minded gift I ever received” was a check from an aunt and uncle to open her first Roth IRA. Just as important: They walked her through the process, “making sure I understood what was happening every step of the way.”

At 19, Lyon thought the holiday gift was a little odd. But today, at 26, the Princeton graduate calls it “the gift that keeps on giving year after year.” Not only did it lessen “the intimidation factor” of investing, but it gave her a 5- to 15-year jump on her retirement savings.

Kay Brooks, estate planning attorney, Sacramento, Calif.: For parents who’ve loaned their children money for a home or car - and where the funds are actually being repaid, “one thoughtful idea is to forgive some or all of the loan as a year-end gift,” said Brooks. “It can be very gratifying to help an adult child reduce their debt.”

Other ideas: Help a young adult pay down a student loan balance. Or help a newly divorced child with financial needs due to his/her changed circumstances.

Marcia Brixey, author of “The Money Therapist”: Buy a few shares of stock in companies your kids like, whether it’s fast food like McDonald’s, toy stores like Disney or beverage companies like Coca-Cola.

“Buying stock is a great way to educate children on how the stock market works. It also teaches children they are ‘owners’ of the company,” said Brixey, who suggests buying additional shares on birthdays, etc.

Also for kids: a piggy bank to get them in the savings habit. She especially likes the “Money Savvy Pig,” a clear, plastic bank whose porky body is divided into four compartments: “Save,” “Spend,” “Donate” and “Invest.” Gregory Burke, CPA, Sacramento: He recommends buying US savings bonds EE or I series - in a child’s name. — MCT

Holy discount: Vatican tax-free store busy VATICAN CITY: Anyone left on your Christmas list just aching for a 65-inch Samsung 3D flat-screen television? Just your luck. The Vatican’s duty-free department store has one on sale for ?2,899 ($3,840) - a nifty savings over the ?3,799 ($5,032) it costs at Italy’s main electronics chain Euronics. Or how about some new luggage for the holidays? The Vatican shop stocks a variety of Samsonite Cordoba Duo carry-ons for ?123, a nice markdown from the ?135 on the Samsonite website. But if a last-minute shopping splurge is in order, the Vatican can also oblige: Take this leather-bound travelling trunk from Florence’s “The Bridge” leatherworks, with its five drawers, plaid interior, six wooden hangars and shiny brass buckles.

At ?5,900, it comes with a matching leather golf club bag, just what every monsignor needs under his Christmas tree. There’s a little-known open secret in the Vatican gardens, a few paces behind St Peter’s Basilica and tucked inside the Vatican’s old train station: a sprawling, three-story tax-free department store that rivals any airport duty free or military PX, stocking everything from Church’s custom grade shoes (?483 a pair) to Baume et Mercier watches (ladies ?1,585, men’s Capeland ?5,000).

There’s a hitch, however. It’s not open to the public, only to Vatican citizens, employees and their dependents, diplomats accredited to the Holy See and (unofficially) their lucky friends who, after stocking up on holiday must-haves, proceed to the checkout with their Vatican connection and the ID card that entitles them to shop there.

To be sure, Rome is no stranger to taxfree shopping. Embassies, nearby military bases and the UN food agencies all

have commissaries for their employees, where imports of everything like American ice cream can be had minus the 21 percent sales tax included in list prices in Italy. The Vatican has that and more, given that it’s its own sovereign state - the world’s smallest - operating in central Rome. At 44 hectares (110 acres), the Vatican city state is the physical home of the Holy See: the pope and governing structure and administration of the Catholic Church.

The Vatican Museum, with its main draw the Sistine Chapel, is the main profit-making enterprise of the Vatican city state, bringing in ?91.3 million in revenue last year alone. But other smaller entrepreneurial endeavors boost the Vatican’s coffers as well, including the department store, the tax-free gas station, the stamp and coin collecting office, the Vatican pharmacy and its supermarket. And in these days of austerity, their profits and bottom line are ever more important to the Vatican. The Vatican is entitled to run such tax-free enterprises inside its walls based on the Lateran Treaty, the 1929 pact that regularized and regulates the Vatican’s relations with Italy. About 4,700 people are employed by the Holy See and the Vatican city state; the Vatican’s diplomatic corps - the Holy See has relations with some 175 countries - adds another chunk to the customer base.

Few people outside Rome know the department store exists - there’s no evidence of it on any Vatican website, no photos of its wares, no advertising outside the Vatican walls. Those who do know it exists seem to want to pretend it doesn’t since the high-end luxury items on sale aren’t necessarily in tune with either the sobriety or the salaries of the Vatican rank-and-file. — AP

JOHANNESBURG: South Africa’s ruling ANC did not sound much like a revolutionary movement of the political left at its party conference this week. Slapping down members’ demands for mine nationalisation, the seizure of white-owned farms and a supertax on business, party leaders railroaded through a distinctly pro-business message. Wholesale nationalisation was said to be “off the table,” the language on taxes was vague and there was a similarly opaque promise to move forward on land reform.

Worse for the left, President Jacob Zuma threw his weight behind the much criticised National Development Plan, which would thoroughly modernise the economy and government if implemented. The ANC’s resolutions were “a Christmas tree of gifts to appease both business and the masses, but it’s short on real specifics,” said Renee Horne, an expert on black economic empowerment and a guest blogger for africanarguments.org.

Still, a rhetorical defeat for the left-wing of the party seemed to always be on the cards.

With credit ratings agencies threatening further downgrades, President Zuma set the tone for the conference on the first day by pledging allegiance to a “mixed economy.”

That theme continued through policy resolutions and with the appointment of multimillionaire Cyril Ramaphosa as deputy head of the ANC, making him Zuma’s heir apparent.

While once a leader of the National Union of Mineworkers, he is now a bona fide capitalist, owning the local franchise rights for McDonald’s and Coca-Cola among other things. “Economists have interpreted the former trade union leader’s appointment as favourable to investment and the economy,” said Horne. Leading industry lobby group Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) commended the ANC for “strong signals” that would make policy more predictable.

But the political and economic challenges facing Zuma’s government are immense and few are under any illusions that progress in developing a more equitable economy will be quick or easy. After 18 years of democratic rule unemployment is still around 25 percent

and South Africa is still one of the most unequal countries on earth.

Growth has been dramatically slowed by labour market unrest, most notably in the mining sector. Corruption is rampant and the public education and health systems are abysmal. “There will certainly be no easy walk to socio-economic freedom,” Zuma told delegates and the country on the final day of the conference. And if Zuma is to push through a more pro-business agenda, he will have to contend with both members of his party and the tripartite alliance which the ANC leads.

The ANC is very much the primus inter pares of the governing alliance with the South African Communist Party and the union umbrella group COSATU, but the relationship is symbiotic and membership often overlaps.

On Friday COSATU pointedly said it would continue to press for “policies explicitly aimed at redistributing income, radically raising incomes of the working poor, and reducing inequality.”

Previous attempts to push through the National Development Plan have been stalled by hostile ministries and regional officials. The delicateness of Zuma’s ideological and political balancing act was laid bare on Friday by Ramaphosa himself, when he sounded much more like the traditional ANC-”a disciplined force of the left.” “The approach is set out: people shall share in the wealth of South Africa,” he told a business breakfast in Bloemfontein.

“The ANC must see to that and the state would intervene,” even if the focus is on “strategic” rather than “wholesale” intervention. Still Zuma’s actions at the conference appear to have been enough to make the ratings agencies and investors hold fire.

In a statement Moody’s said it “reserves judgment on how the conference decisions will affect South Africa’s Baa1 sovereign rating and negative outlook.” Moody’s and others are now waiting “until there is greater clarity on some of these details.” They are not the only ones. — AFP

BLOEMFONTEIN: A woman looks at a T-shirt with a portrait of Jacob Zuma outside the 53rd National Conference of the African National Congress (ANC). — AFP

Poland ready for economic slowdown WARSAW: Proud of having been the only EU member state to keep growing as the crisis torpedoed economies across the bloc, Poland is bracing for a slowdown in 2013 as exports suffer and austerity measures bite. The country’s official growth forecast for next year is 2.2 percent. While many in the 27nation European Union dream of such a performance, for Poland it would mark a fall from this year’s expected 2.5 percent and the 4.3 percent posted in 2011. Analysts are more pessimistic. “Growth in 2013 is more likely to be 1.4 percent. We can’t see any factors that would allow us to forecast anything better,” said Konrad Soszynski of the bank BGZ, part of Dutch group Rabobank.

“Budgetary austerity, which means reduced public-sector revenue, plus a pensions freeze and cuts in state investment, have fuelled a fall in domestic consumption which is the main cause of the slowdown,” he told AFP. London-based Capital Economics is gloomier still, forecasting 1.0 percent. With 38 million people, Poland is the largest economy among the mainly ex-communist entrants which have enlarged the EU from 15 to 27 members since 2004.

Its home market has been a traditional buffer against its trade partners’ woes-it boasted 1.7-percent growth in 2009 as the slump lashed other economies-but falling domestic consumption is chipping away at that shield. “Exports can’t offset that, because they are still affected by the economic problems in other EU member states, which are Poland’s main customers,” said Soszynski.

In Warsaw’s shopping malls-a world away from the empty shelves of the communist-era economic meltdown of the 1980s-the crowds are still bustling as Christmas looms. But consumers are being careful. “We’ve decided to set ourselves a limit this year, and are only giving books in the family and among friends,” said shopper Beata, who is in her forties. In the third quarter, output grew by 1.9 percent on a 12-month basis from 2.5 percent in the second quarter, according to official data.

Compared with the second quarter, meanwhile, the economy expanded by a narrow 0.4 percent in July to September. “We’re still talking about growth, but it’s lower than we’d have hoped, and lower than it has been,” centrist Prime Minister Donald Tusk acknowledged recently. In office since 2007, the government led by his Civic Platform movement won a second term in the 2011 general election-a first for any party since the communist regime’s demise in 1989.

The economy was a key issue in last year’s campaign, with Tusk proudly flagging up his country’s status as a “green island” in a European sea of red.

Underlining the problems now facing the country, Italian auto giant Fiat has announced that in coming months it will cut 1,500 jobs at its plant in Tychy, southern Poland. That’s a third of Fiat’s workers in Poland, the bulk of whose production is destined for export.

Even before that blow, unemployment was climbing, hitting 12.9 percent in November after 12.5 percent in October. Despite sustained economic growth since the introduction of a market economy after the collapse of communism, Poland has struggled with one of Europe’s highest jobless rates, albeit now outstripped by those in crisis-hit countries. But there are concerns that unemployment could continue to rise steadily. — AP

Christmas shopping plunges alongside Cyprus economy NICOSIA: Nicosia’s main shopping artery Makarios Avenue has strung up its Christmas lights but many stores have pulled down their shutters while others are practically empty, reflecting Cyprus’ poor economic state. Malls on the outskirts of the capital are still thriving, but many Cypriots fear the entire Mediterranean island, exposed to debtridden Greek banks, will follow in Makarios Avenue’s footsteps before too long. “A few years ago you’d have to pay up to 500,000 euros ($660,000) in key money to set up shop on Makarios. Now, next to nothing,” said Christos Styliou, owner of a sports store and a games shop.

Styliou’s revenue has plummeted 60 percent in a year, and he has had to let most of his staff go, make his own sales and deliveries, and keep stock at home so as not to pay for storage. “Many of our clients lost their jobs, some had their salary cut by half,” said veterinarian Georgios Gakos whose clinic is located in an upmarket area of the capital. “One who was coming once a month (to groom his dog) now comes just for the annual injections.”

Dean Millard, a British craftsman who moved to Cyprus 26 years ago, owns a second-hand shop. “People come to try and sell their furniture,” he said. “The Cypriots are too proud to say it’s because they need the money, but I know they do. And I can’t help them. The only second hand things that sell now are appliances like fridges and washing machines.” Millard has also had to fire staff and his store barely breaks even on its expenses. He tried to extend his bank

loan for his business, but with interest rates of 10.5 percent, he decided to borrow money instead from family. A banker, requesting anonymity, told AFP that many clients were asking for loan extensions but these could not always be granted because of the decline in the value of assets such as real estate. “A flat worth 100,000 euros ($130,000) before is now worth around 70,000,” she said.

The country has seen 5,000 small- and medium-sized businesses fold in the past three years, according to Alekos Tryphonides, a member of the centrist Diko party and a civil service union leader. Unemployment has leapt to 12 percent of the working age population, without counting thousands of immigrant workers or illegal aliens, most of whom come from Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Vietnam, and were the first to see the work dry up. Last week Cyprus’s biggest supermarket chain Orphanides, swamped by debt, went into receivership, threatening the jobs of hundreds of its employees and suppliers.

And in the public sector, 72,000 civil servants may in 2013 see a 15 percent cutback in their salaries, already frozen this year. The government has even had to draw from pension funds just to afford December’s payroll. VAT and tax on cigarettes and fuel are increasing, as has the cost of electricity since an explosion in July 2011 that destroyed the island’s main power station. Many of Cyprus’s inhabitants talk of emigrating, saying how a friend, a cousin or a neighbour has already gone to Australia, Germany, Russia. Greece, however, is no longer an option. — AFP

NICOSIA: Cypriots walk past an advertisement for a supermarket in the old city of Nicosia. — AFP

26

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

BUSINESS

NBK congratulates IAB member

KUWAIT: NBK Group CEO Ibrahim Dabdoub, Mohamed El Erian, the President Emeritus of NBER Martin Feldstein and the former vice chairman of CitiGroup William Rhodes at NBK’s Annual Symposium last year.

KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) congratulated its International Advisory Board (IAB) member and PIMCO CEO Dr Mohamed El Erian on being appointed by the President of the United States of America Barack Obama as Chair of the President ’s new Global Development Council.

Dr El Erian has served on NBK’s IAB since its inception in 2007. Last year, NBK hosted Dr El Erian in its Annual Symposium to discuss the global financial crisis and its implications on the Middle East and North Africa region. We would like to congratulate Dr El Erian on being appointed by the Obama administration as

KUWAIT: Mohamed El Erian with former British Prime Minister Sir John Major and Reliance Industries Limited Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani at IAB’s meeting in Kuwait last year.

Chair of the Global Development Council. We also thank him for his important and continuous contribution to the International Advisory Board,” said NBK Group CEO Ibrahim S. Dabdoub.

“Dr El Erian’s vast knowledge and experience will be a great asset to the global development efforts. We wish him all the best in this new endeavor,” Dabdoub added. Dr El Erian is the CEO of PIMCO, a global investment management firm and one of the world largest bond investors with approximately USD 1.9 trillion of assets under management.

NBK was the first Arab bank to have an International Advisory Board. The board members include world recognized political leaders, businessmen, bankers and economists including former British Prime Minister Sir John Major, HRH Prince Turki Al-Faisal AlSaud, World Economic Forum founder Klaus Schwab, Deutsche Bank Ex-Chairman Josef Ackermann and Reliance Industries Limited Chairman and Managing Director Mukesh Ambani.

The Global development Council was established in February 2012 through an executive order of the American President Barack Obama. The Council will inform and provide advice to the President and other senior US officials on US global development policies and practices, support new and existing public-private partnerships, and increase awareness and action in support of development by soliciting public input on current and emerging issues in the field of global development.

Wataniya launches Nokia Lumia KUWAIT: Wataniya Telecom celebrated with its customers by hosting a special Nokia Lumia event solely for Wataniya users. The event was held at 360 Mall, Arcade area ‘FREEZE’ between 7:00 pm-10:30 pm on December 19, 2012. The event included several games, snacks and promoters conducted demos for the enhanced features of the Nokia Lumia 920 and 820.

The event was a great success with Wataniya customersgetting a chance to participate in a variety of contests and winners were given the Nokia Lumia devices as prizes. Riham Al-Ayaar, Senior Director of Communications, Brand & Customer Experience at Wataniya Telecom said, “Our goal is to differentiate our customers from among others and reward them for their loyalty. Our team works hard to provide the best products and superior customer service so that our customers can enjoy the best offers which are in tune with their needs and expectations.”

The Nokia Lumia is a phone that comes with several enhanced features. It is the latest Windows 8 phone and is one of the sturdiest Nokia devices. The 8.7 megapixel camera comes with image stabilization that allows users to take great pictures. The touch screen is highly

sensitive and can be operated with gloves on. The Nokia Lumia 920 includes wireless charging option and has several new features like electronic wallet, a kids corner, camera lenses, “Office 2013”, and offers the possibility to synchronize content using Skydrive with any

Windows 8 device.

The Nokia Lumia 820 also offers a range of exciting features like Smart Shoot which allows one to take a series of pictures with a click and then merge them. Just like Nokia Lumia 920, 820 has City Lens which points out popular restau-

Al-Tijari announces Najma account winners KUWAIT: Commercial Bank of Kuwait held the Al-Najma Account Daily draw yesterday. The draw was held under the supervision of the Ministry of Commerce & Industry represented by Saquer Al-Manaie.

The winners of the Najma Daily Draw who get KD 7,000 are: Tareq Mohammad Abdullah Ashkanani, Musaed Mohamed Ali Al-Mulla, Helal Ghali Farhan, Esmael Mortatha Yaqoubi and Kanuruwala Fairoz Ali Taher Ali. The Commercial Bank of Kuwait announces the biggest daily draw in Kuwait with the launch of the new Najma account. Customers of the bank can now enjoy a KD 7,000 daily prize which is the highest in the country and another 4 mega prizes during the year worth KD

100,000 each on different occasions: The National Day, Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha and on June 10 which is the date of the bank’s establishment.

With a minimum balance of KD 500, customers will be eligible for the daily draw provided that the money is in the account one week prior to the daily draw or two months prior to the mega draw. In addition, for each KD 25 a customer can get one chance for winning instead of KD 50. Commercial Bank of Kuwait takes this opportunity to congratulate all lucky winners and also extends appreciation to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for their effective supervision of the draws which were conducted in an orderly and organized manner.

rants, malls and places of interest while traveling. It offers an 8 megapixel camera and many more enhanced features. Wataniya brings a wide range of smartphones and exciting offers that are designed to suit the varying preference of its large customer base.

EQUATE issues its 2012 booklet KUWAIT: EQUATE Petrochemical Company has issued its 2012 booklet which highlights the company’s overall achievements. On this occasion, EQUATE Senior Executive for Corporate Communications & Client Affairs Adel Al-Munifi said, “The booklet constitutes a brief presentation of EQUATE’s journey to becoming a true manifestation of ‘Partners in Success’ in Kuwait and beyond.”

Al-Munifi added, “Entitled ‘Providing valued products to the world,’ the booklet addresses several matters relevant to EQUATE, such as its founding, shareholders, human resources, products, customers, Greater EQUATE joint-venture, Responsible Care, sustainability, awards and other topics.”

Al-Munifi noted, “EQUATE continues to be a contributor to the petrochemical industry within and outside Kuwait at several levels.” In recognition of its sustainability achievements, EQUATE has earned several prestigious honors, including His Highness the Amir Award for the Best Plant in Kuwait; The Gold Award in Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) for Gulf private sector companies; The Award for Best Gulf Company in Recruiting Nationals; Arabian Business Best CSR Company Award; Oil & Gas (O&G) Middle East CSR Award; O&G Best Implemented Environmental Program of the Year; Middle East Chemical Week (MECW) Plant of the Year Award; as well as Kuwait’s CSR Award in the Industrial and Oil Sector. In addition, EQUATE has received the Highly Commended Best

Community Program Award during the First Middle East CSR Award Summit.”

Adel Al-Munifi Established in 1995, EQUATE is an international joint venture between Petrochemical Industries Company (PIC), The Dow Chemical Company (Dow), Boubyan Petrochemical Company (BPC) and Qurain Petrochemical Industries Company (QPIC). Commencing production in 1997, EQUATE is the single operator of a fully integrated world-scale manufacturing facility producing over 5 million tons annually of high-quality petrochemical products which are marketed throughout the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe.

Burgan Bank announces Yawmi account winners KUWAIT: Burgan Bank announced yesterday the names of the five lucky winners of its Yawmi account draw, each taking home a prize of KD 5,000. Winners’ names will also be announced through Marina FM on a daily basis during their prime shows. The lucky winners for the five daily draws took home a cash-prize of KD 5,000 each, and they are: Sara Helal Rashed, Hussain Ayed Al-Qaddah, Ali Khalid Sajjad Ahmad, Dana Mahmoud Abdulwahab Alqallaf, and Ahmed Mahboob Al-Amer.

The newly re-launched Yawmi Account is better, easier and faster than any day before. With its new and enhanced features, the Yawmi Account has become more convenient, easier, and faster for customers to benefit from. Now, customers will be eligible to enter the draw after 48 hours only from opening the account. Customers are also required to

deposit KD 100 or equivalent only to enter the daily draw, and the coupon value to enter the draw stands at KD 10.

The newly designed Yawmi account has been launched to provide a highly innovative offering along with a higher frequency and incentive of winning for everyone. Today, the Yawmi account is a well understood product, where its popularity can be seen from the number of increasing account holders.

Burgan Bank encourages everyone to open a Yawmi account and/or increase their deposit to maximize their chances to becoming a daily winner. The more customers deposit, the higher the chances they receive of winning the draw. Opening a Yawmi account is simple, customers are urged to visit their nearest Burgan Bank branch and receive all the details, or simply call the bank’s call center.

Warba Bank launches exclusive e-statement of account service KUWAIT: Warba Bank, the most recently opened Islamic bank in Kuwait, launched yesterday the new e-statement of account service for Warba’s credit card and prepaid card holders. Clients are now able to receive their statement of accounts directly on their personal emails with complete security and confidentiality.

Commenting on the new service, Manager of the Cards Department at Warba Bank, Talal Abdullah Al-Arbeed, said, “The new exclusive e-service allows the bank’s credit card and prepaid card customers access to their statement of accounts on their personal emails conveniently, without the need to wait for it by mail or fax.” He added, “The e-service allows us to get closer to our customers and better understand their needs by providing them with contemporary communication solutions to receive their requested information in no time.”

The excusive e-service by Warba Bank is offered free of charge and is emailed to the clients on a monthly basis. For the client’s security, the confidential information will only be displayed after entering the password. Al-Arbeed emphasized that the e-statement of account service is the first of its kind in Kuwait, which offers customers a fast and safe method to track their transactions made by their credit

and prepaid cards.

He further clarified that new customers only need to state their email addresses on their credit card or prepaid application forms in order to access this e-service, while current clients can visit any Warba Bank branch to add their email address to their personal data. The e-

Talal Al-Arbeed statement of account service abides by the international standards of customers’ security rights. The new e-service also reflects the bank’s keenness to follow governmental instructions, while support the environment by saving paper and cutting down on pollution through the latest IT solutions.

Certina launches DS First Day-Date Automatic There are times and places where a precise timepiece of exceptional quality gives a busy, successful person a decided edge over events. The DS First Day-Date is one such automatic timepiece, in touch with the best of classic watchmaking while boasting a modern feel and subtle sporty influences all over. Wrapped in a case with selected areas of brushed and polished surfaces, held by a stunning five-row bracelet with contrasting surfaces, it says much about its wearer’s excellent taste.

The DS First Day-Date Automatic blends surface finishes with the designer’s best skill. With great harmony, selected elements complement each other, reflecting light over its case, bracelet, buckle, and dial. A polished bezel brightly surrounds a sap-

phire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Lightly rounded lugs with polished side surfaces beautifully blend into a bracelet that is full of visual

into the finer workings of the new DS First. The watch is protected from the elements thanks to its screw-in crown and special DS Concept construction,

rhythm, thanks to five rows of alternating brushed and polished elements.

The screw-on case back is transparent, to allow watch enthusiasts a glimpse

water resistant up to a pressure of 20 bar (200 m). The dial is clear and open in sporty anthracite grey, and the hour, minute hands and indices, trimmed in

exquisitely classy rose-gold PVD, are also generously treated with Superluminova treatment, for maximum readability under all lighting conditions. A central hand shows seconds and a clear and broad day-date window is placed at 3 o’clock for optimal viewing.

The five-row bracelet is a stunning piece of work. Alternating rows of polished and brushed surfaces draw appreciative glances as ambient light plays over their contours, gently rounded for comfort and visual harmony. A folding buckle with two pushbuttons ensures that your DS First remains with you at all times and through the sportiest of schedules.

Other versions are also available, including one with a leather strap, for more formal occasions.

27

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

TECHNOLOGY

Boeing engineers use spuds to improve in-air Wi-Fi CHICAGO: If the wireless Internet connection during your holiday flight seems more reliable than it used to, you could have the humble potato to thank.

While major airlines offer in-flight WiFi on many flights, the signal strength can be spotty. Airlines and aircraft makers have been striving to improve this with the growing use of wireless devices and the number of people who don’t want to be disconnected, even 35,000 feet up.

Engineers at Chicago-based Boeing Co used sacks of potatoes as stand-ins for passengers as they worked to eliminate weak spots in in-flight wireless signals. They needed full planes to get accurate results during signal testing, but they couldn’t ask people to sit motionless for days while data was gathered.

“That’s where potatoes come into the picture,” Boeing spokesman Adam Tischler said.

It turns out that potatoes - because of their water content and chemistry absorb and reflect radio wave signals

much the same way as the human body does, making them suitable substitutes for airline passengers.

“It’s a testament to the ingenuity of these engineers. They didn’t go in with potatoes as the plan,” Tischler said.

Recapping the serendipitous path that led to better onboard wireless, Tischler said a member of the research team stumbled across an article in the Journal of Food Science describing research in which 15 vegetables and fruits were evaluated for their dielectric properties, or the way they transmit electric force without conduction.

Its conclusions led the Boeing researchers to wonder if potatoes might serve just as well as humans during their own signal testing. Despite some skepticism, they ended up buying 20,000 pounds of them. Video and photos of the work, which started in 2006, show a decommissioned airplane loaded with row upon row of potato sacks that look like large, lumpy passengers. The sacks sit eerily still in the seats as the engineers collect data

on the strength of wireless signals in various spots.

The Boeing engineers added some complicated statistical analysis and the result was a proprietary system for fine tuning Internet signals so they would be strong and reliable wherever a laptop was used on a plane. Boeing says the system also ensures Wi-Fi signals won’t interfere with the plane’s sensitive navigation and communications equipment.

“From a safety standpoint, you want to know what the peak signals are, what’s the strongest signal one of our communications and navigation systems might see from a laptop or 150 laptops or 350 laptops,” Boeing engineer Dennis Lewis explains in a video.

In a nod to the humor in using a tuber to solve a high-tech problem, researchers dubbed the project Synthetic Personnel Using Dialectic Substitution, or SPUDS. The company says better Wi-Fi signals can be found already on three Boeing aircraft models flown by major airlines: 777, 747-8 and the 787 Dreamliner. —AP

This 2006 photo provided by Boeing Co. shows early dielectric substitution testing using potatoes in a Boeing Test & Evaluation laboratory in Arizona. —AP

Will iPad revolutionize in-flight entertainment?

Travellers opt for TV-like experience onboard NEW YORK: Paul Tamburelli prefers flying United Airlines or British Airways when traveling internationally. It’s not just because of the price and schedule.

Tamburelli, a vice president of government relations for a Phoenix company, likes that flights on those airlines aren’t too boring.

“Their at-seat entertainment systems with movies, TV shows, music and games make even the longest flight bearable,” he says. His least favorite option is on American Airlines’ MD-80 aircraft “with nothing but movies on my iPad for a fourhour flight,” he says.

Travelers are increasingly demanding that airlines provide in-flight entertainment systems that replicate or even transcend the TV experience they have on the ground.

Eager to breed loyalty, airlines are responding with more elaborate entertainment options. No sooner have they loaded their planes with Wi-Fi and electronic hardware in seat backs and armrests than they’re turning to handing out tablets loaded with entertainment or installing wireless systems to stream con-

movies, television series, games and music channels in business class on some flights.

American Airlines issues Samsung Galaxy Tabs in premium cabins on some transcontinental and international flights.

All are offering the devices for free, but some, such as Australian low-cost carrier Jetstar, charge for them.

Other airlines are installing wireless systems with a variety of programming that passengers can stream onto the electronic devices they carry on with them.

“Just go back a couple of years and there weren’t any tablets period, and now we’re talking about putting them on aircraft,” says Russ Lemieux, executive director of the Airline Passenger Experience Association. “The technology is changing on the ground. (Passengers’) expectations for what they can get on an airplane are changing. The industry is trying to meet those changing demands of the consumer, of the passenger to the best of their ability, given constraints and budgets.”

A pricey proposition The constraints are largely financial.

jumped to 1,400 from 600.

Mary Kirby, editor-in-chief of the Airline Passenger Experience Association magazine, says most carriers are still ordering seat-back embedded screens for their existing long-haul aircraft. “It’s almost like buying a car without a radio,” she says.

But the advent of in-flight Wi-Fi has opened the door to new entertainment options, especially on shorter flights, she says. Airline Wi-Fi provider Gogo now operates on 1,600 commercial aircraft domestically. Row 44 provides Wi-Fi to 440 aircraft worldwide.

Some carriers are exploiting that connectivity to offer more programming.

Southwest, for instance, this summer began wireless live television though Row 44 that passengers can stream on their own devices. Virgin America recently started offering YouTube programming.

Several companies are coming up with other strategies to entertain fliers.

Lufthansa Systems has developed BoardConnect, which lets passengers stream movies, see destination information and even read menus and engage in duty-free shopping on their personal

tent onto passengers’ personal devices.

“This is a really fluid time,” says Michael Planey, an airline industry analyst at H&M Planey Consultants. “There are multiple paths being taken by individual airlines and companies in trying to find a niche in the market,” to lure new customers and retain existing ones.

It used to be that airlines did little more than hand out earphones for passengers to watch a movie on a screen dropped down from the ceiling or, on certain aircraft, embedded in the seat back in front of them. Now, airlines are offering an extensive range of entertainment options, from expanded video content to unique online offerings.

In-flight entertainment “used to be restricted to a movie, which just played every two hours on a loop,” says Adam Weissenberg, vice chairman and leader of Deloitte’s US Travel, Hospitality and Leisure practice. “There are now on-demand, massive libraries of movies both old and new, television shows, news programming, taped sports, video games, huge music libraries, etc., and not just in first and business class, but also in coach.”

The carriers are experimenting with new ways to deliver the content. Some are lending tablets for the duration of a flight.

OpenSkies, a subsidiary of British Airways, will distribute iPads loaded with more than 70 hours of programming on its new flights between New York and Paris. Israel’s El Al Airlines offers iPads loaded with

Outfitting a typical wide-body plane with seat-back screens can cost $3 million or more per plane, airline executives and consultants say.

Emirates Airline, for example, spends an average of $15,000 per seat on embedded screens. For an Airbus A380 with 517 seats, the total cost to install seat-back monitors would be approximately $7.8 million. And that doesn’t include the content.

“It is the most expensive thing after the engines,” says Patrick Brannelly, vice president of product, publishing, digital and events for Emirates. “It is a ginormous investment by the airline. But it’s one that’s paid off, because the airline has done very well.”

Maintaining the equipment also adds to the cost. Brannelly says the airline is always thinking about what the “next generation” of the technology will be.

“You have to be two years ahead,” he says. “It is a continual evolution, with the occasional revolution.”

Emirates has had TV screens on every seat in every class for more than two decades. But the product has grown along with the airline. Over the years, the screens have gotten larger. First-class seat-backs now have 27-inch screens, while business class has 20-inch screens and economy has 12.1-inch screens. The content, too, has gotten more elaborate.

In 2007, the airline moved to widescreen and high-definition programming, and the number of channels

devices or on carrier-provided devices.

Gogo stores movies and TV shows on its servers for Wi-Fi equipped planes.

Passengers can buy a TV show for 99 cents or a movie for $3.99 and watch it on their personal devices for up to 24 hours after they land. US Airways, Delta and American have signed on for the service on some of their flights.

Norbert Muller, head of Program Management for Lufthansa System’s BoardConnect, says carriers in Europe and Asia have for years equipped both their short- and long-haul aircraft with in-flight entertainment options. But now he’s seeing more US carriers seeking to offer entertainment even on short flights. “We are seeing demand from airlines to offer something like that to differentiate themselves from their competitors,” he says.

Australia’s Jetstar is one of several airlines that offer passengers pre-loaded iPads for in-flight entertainment.

Handing out tablets or offering streaming on personal devices is cheaper for airlines. Using iPads might cost about $600 each, vs. the thousands of dollars a seatback screen would cost.

“They can distribute these with relatively minimal disruption,” Planey says. “It’s a low-cost, low-investment, no-installation option.”

The strategy is also appealing because personal devices are not as heavy as hundreds of seat-back systems. And a lighter plane translates into financial savings.

Rob Fyfe, CEO of Air New Zealand, says that for every 2 pounds of weight on a 12hour flight from Auckland to Los Angeles, the plane burns about half a liter of fuel.

So for every 2 pounds of weight removed from a wide-body aircraft on long-haul routes, the airline saves $400 per year. “ There is an enormous economic incentive to reduce the weight of the systems,” he says.

Air New Zealand has not resorted to handing out tablets. Instead, the airline recently signed on with Panasonic Avionics to try its new eXLite system, a seat-back screen that weighs just 3.2 pounds, less than half the usual weight.

Some airline executives say they would never give up on seat-back screens.

Handing out tablets, says Brannelly, seems like a shortcut.

“Whether they are innovations or stopgaps is the big question,” he says of the strategy. “There’s nothing better than a TV already fixed there for you. Having to set up a tablet on your meal tray is not that convenient. I don’t think you want to go from the embedded experience to that experience. I don’t think that will ever compete.”

And Kirby points out, the airlineowned tablets come with their own baggage. “There are headaches for the crew involved,” she says. “They all have to be charged ... and updated with content.”

Flight attendants also have to make sure passengers are abiding by Federal Aviation Administration restrictions on the use of electronic devices in-flight.

Cameron King, an American Airlines spokesman, says flight attendants distribute the devices once they reach the altitude at which it is safe to turn them on and collect them before devices have to be turned off for landing.

Letting passengers stream content onto their own devices also has one major drawback. Hollywood studios are reluctant to let airlines give out pre-DVD movies for people to stream on devices they can take home with them. “It’s such a revenue generator for them, and they’re not ready to let it go,” Kirby says.

Looking for loyalty Whichever strategy an airline chooses, chances are it is not making much money from it, experts say.

“I don’t think airlines view (it) as a way to make money, but more as a way to build loyalty to the brand,” Deloitte’s Weissenberg says.

Most airlines don’t charge for in-flight entertainment on long flights. And it’s too early to tell how many fee-weary passengers will be willing to pay for wireless streaming or tablet rentals.

If airlines’ experience with Wi-Fi is any indication, travelers may take awhile to warm up to the new systems.

Gogo CEO Michael Small says on a typical flight, 6% or 7% of passengers pay for the Wi-Fi. He says that will increase as the technology improves and the bandwith expands, providing faster connections.

Neil James, executive director of Corporate Sales and Product Management at Panasonic Avionics, says airlines can eventually turn in-flight entertainment systems into moneymakers if they take advantage of their captive audience for advertising or product sales, perhaps.

“That’s a unique opportunity that the airlines really need to take advantage of,” he says.

Lufthansa’s Muller has grand expectations for in-flight entertainment systems and thinks they will transform the flight experience. “ The speed of the connectivity will change, so you can do more,” he says. He offered one idea: “You can have people comment on a movie on Facebook while they ’re watching it.” —MCT

Genetically engineered salmon closer to approval LOS ANGELES: After more than a decade in regulatory limbo, genetically engineered Atlantic salmon that grow faster than their naturally born counterparts moved closer to American plates, with the publication Friday of a government report that found the fish wouldn’t hurt the environment and would be safe to eat.

The draft report, released by the Food and Drug Administration after months of unexplained delay, was greeted with cheers by members of the biotech community and anger by opponents of genetically modified foods, who commonly refer to the AquAdvantage salmon as a “Frankenfish.”

Two years ago, the FDA tentatively ruled that the salmon could safely be consumed by humans and that the fish would not harm wild species. The current report advances the process.

A 60-day period of public comment on the 158-page environmental assessment and its conclusions now follows before the FDA will decide whether to give the salmon its blessing or take some other action. There is no timeline on when that next step may happen, said FDA spokeswoman Shelly Burgess.

“I have a smile on my face _ it certainly looks good for the fish moving forward,” said David Edwards, director of animal biotechnology for the Biotechnology Industry Organization in Washington. “It shows that the administration is willing to move forward on these technologies and allow the U.S. to be the leader that we should be.”

AquAdvantage salmon grows twice as fast as conventional salmon because a growth hormone gene derived from the chinook variety has been spliced into its DNA. If approved, it would be the first genetically modified animal intended for food use to pass that milestone in the United States. Edwards and others said it would invigorate the field of animal biotechnology, which is currently so moribund in the U.S. that industry investment is near-nonexistent; scientists have stopped training students in the craft, and researchers have shut down their projects or moved them overseas.

But the FDA’s actions _ and the timing of its announcement, on the eve of a long holiday weekend _ drew outrage from consumer advocacy groups who are not convinced that the fish is environmentally benign nor that it’s safe to eat.

More than 400,000 public comments urging regulators not to approve the fish have been submitted to the FDA since the agency opened discussion of the issue in 2010, according to George Kimbrell, senior attorney for the Washington-based Center for Food Safety. Kimbrell noted that the FDA’s documents are dated May 4, 2012, and said that releasing them on Dec. 21 was “cynical” and “political.” There have been rumblings for months that the White House was dragging its feet on the controversial issue because it didn’t want to make an unpopular decision during an election year.

“It’s ‘the day the world was supposed to end’ but in fact the day we are all on vacation,” Kimbrell said, in a reference to the so-called Maya doomsday. “I think the agency is aware of the controversial and irresponsible nature of its decision and wanted it to go out on the quietest day of the year.”

Kimbrell and statements from other advocacy groups opposed to genetically modified organisms, or GMOs, said that safety tests on the fish were inadequate and that the faster-growing AquAdvantage salmon could potentially outcompete wild Atlantic salmon if they escaped captivity and threatened wild fish stocks.

AquaBounty Technologies Inc., the Maynard, Mass.-based company that developed the fish, says that contention is unsupported by science. The FDA’s environmental review and safety conclusions focus narrowly on specific plans that AquaBounty put in place for raising and processing the modified salmon. Unlike conventionally farmed salmon, the AquAdvantage fish would not be raised in ocean pens and would not be brought live into the United States.

Instead, the fish would be farmed on Prince Edward Island in Canada. Eggs that they produced would be transported to Panama, where they would hatch and be raised in inland freshwater tanks. The farmed fish _ sterile and female _ would be processed overseas and the flesh transported to the United States for market.

AquaBounty President and Chief Executive Ronald Stotish said that the Panama facility would permit production of tons of fish and that more tanks could be added. Ultimately, he said, additional facilities could be built at other sites, including places within the United States that are near urban centers. The company would have to receive FDA approval for each expansion of its facilities, however.

“The attributes of our product and a land-based system are exactly what environmental groups are asking for,” Stotish said. “We hope that when they read the environmental assessment they will understand the science and the benefits of our product and stop opposing us just because we’re different.” Gregory Jaffe, director of the biotechnology project at the Center for Science in the Public Interest in Washington, said he saw no evidence to suggest that the salmon would be unhealthful to eat nor that AquaBounty’s Panama facility would pose an environmental risk. But he added that the small volume of fish the company could produce there amounts to “a lot of effort for not a lot of fish” _ and thus the plan amounts to no more than a proof of concept. —MCT

28

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

health & science

Research offers Pa woman new arm, 14 years after amputation ‘What’s available commercially is woefully inadequate’

STRATHAM: File photo shows employees of the New Hampshire state health department set up a temporary clinic at the middle school in Stratham, NH, to test hundreds of people for hepatitis C related to an outbreak at nearby Exeter Hospital. —AP

Hep C cases linked to NH hospital worker rise CONCORD: Five more people have been diagnosed with the same strain of hepatitis C a former traveling hospital worker is accused of spreading through tainted needles, bringing the total to 44 in four states.

David Kwiatkowski, whom prosecutors have called a “serial infector,” is charged with stealing painkillers from New Hampshire’s Exeter Hospital and replacing them with saline-filled syringes tainted with his own blood. He pleaded not guilty earlier this month to 14 federal drug charges and has been in jail since his arrest in July.

Thirty-two New Hampshire patients have tested positive for the same strain of the liver-destroying disease Kwiatkowski carries, and a dozen other cases have emerged in some of the 18 hospitals in seven states where he previously worked.

Maryland health officials announced four new cases on Friday, all involving patients at The Johns Hopkins Hospital, where Kwiatkowski worked from July 2009 to January 2010.

The previously reported cases include one from the Baltimore VA Medical Center and six from Hays Medical Center in Kansas. Another case has been confirmed at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center in Pennsylvania, a hospital spokeswoman told The Associated Press this week. Over the years, Kwiatkowski was

fired twice over allegations of drug use and theft, including from UPMC, where he was just a few weeks into his temporary stint when a co-worker accused him of swiping a fentanyl syringe from an operating room and sticking it down his pants. Citing a lack of evidence, hospital authorities didn’t call police, and neither the hospital nor the medical staffing agency that placed him in the job informed the national accreditation organization for radiological technicians.

In Maryland, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene said Friday that no drug diversion allegations involving Kwiatkowski were reported to the agency during his time there, but the five linked cases adds to the concern that such activity took place. The department expects to release a report early next year on potential vulnerabilities and steps to prevent future outbreaks. Kwiatkowski was sent to Johns Hopkins by a staffing agency that assured the hospital it had followed a vigorous vetting process, hospital spokeswoman Kim Hoppe said.

“This includes a criminal background check, credentials and licensure verification, health and drug screening and two references,” she said. “In this case, none of the information that Medical Solutions provided about this health care worker suggested a history of drug diversion or any other criminal activity.” — AP

Kids lose 756 pounds at US boarding school KANSAS CITY: Sixteen-year-old Jason Alexander weighed 326 pounds four months ago when he and 13 classmates boarded a plane for a weight-loss boarding school in South Carolina. When he stepped off a return flight home Friday, he was down to 233 pounds, making him the biggest loser in his Missouri school district’s unusually aggressive effort to battle childhood obesity. While individual families have long enrolled children in weight-loss programs, the Independence school district is believed to be the first to send students as a group to a program like the one in South Carolina. The 12 students who completed the program lost a combined 756 pounds, and relatives and friends who greeted them at the airport could scarcely believe the change.

Jason’s mother, Debbie Alexander, said it wasn’t just the weight loss. Her son who had battled a speech impediment and been slow to smile was now grinning broadly. “It’s crazy,” Alexander said. “Kids have always given him grief.”

The school district, donors and the students’ families worked together to pay about half of the usual $28,500-persemester tuition at MindStream Academy in Bluffton, SC. The rest of the tuition was paid by a foundation associated with the academy and other donors.

Jason and the other students - the youngest was 11 - spent the semester exercising, studying, working with counselors and learning to eat healthier. The curriculum was practical and hands-on: Students took field trips to a grocery store and fast food restaurant to learn to make good purchasing decisions and studied things like knife skills in the

school’s kitchen. Their parents, meanwhile, met monthly with MindStream’s clinical director in Independence to learn how to help their children upon their return. Experts say it’s hard for anyone to maintain weight-loss if their families don’t also develop good eating and exercise habits.

Each student had a story of how the pounds added up. Jason’s weight shot up after his father’s death 6 1/2 years earlier, jeopardizing his dream of joining the military. Like many who are overweight, he became easily winded and his knees hurt.

He said he’s now 40 to 50 pounds from being able to qualify for military service and plans to join a training group to help him shed the rest of the weight. His family has cleansed the kitchen of junk food, made space for a treadmill and stocked up on healthy items like ground turkey. The district envisions Jason and the other participants becoming health ambassadors in their schools, perhaps speaking to groups or working one-on-one with classmates who are struggling with their weight.

“I feel amazing,” said Jason, who shed weight so quickly that he struggled to find clothes. His jeans, which he bought from another classmate, hung loose around him, cinched with a belt to keep them from falling off. “I can’t believe I got to that point. I can’t believe I got that big.” Several Independence parents said the program also helped them lose weight, from 5 to 80 pounds. Angela Gentry lost 20 pounds while her 17year-old daughter, Teah, was in South Carolina. Teah lost more than 60 pounds, and her brother lost 36 at home. — AP

KANSAS CITY: Debbie Alexander checks out her son Jason’s baggy-fitting jeans after he returned from a four-month stay at a weight-loss boarding school at the Kansas City International Airport in Kansas City, Mo. — AP

PENNSYLVANIA: Over the 14 years since losing her right arm to a hollow-point bullet, Dana Burke was convinced she could feel herself pointing, pinching or waving as she motioned with the 5-inch-long limb the attack left behind. Still, she had to relearn how to pull her hair back in a ponytail and tie her shoes.

It’s a struggle to play horsie with her three children using only one arm for support, and she had to start off with a child’s fat crayon to learn to write left-handed.

But now, she has proof of what she knew all along. A team of researchers watched in awe this month in her Central Pennsylvania home as she controlled a virtual arm depicted on a laptop through 11 distinct hand, wrist and elbow movements using just her brain and a set of sensors on her arm.

Burke soon will be one of the world’s first amputees to replace her lost limb with a high-tech, thought-controlled prosthetic capable of nearly matching the dexterity of flesh and bone. It’s the fruit of a federally funded project at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory six years in the making, intended to aid wounded war veterans. But Burke’s case is a medical marvel, her doctor said, that could change amputation surgery and recovery for all patients.

“It shouldn’t really be possible with a typical above-elbow amputation,” said Army Capt Michael A. Powell, a Hopkins graduate student researcher who developed the software that translates nerve impulses at the end of arms like Burke’s into virtual motion on a laptop screen-a small step away from controlling a robotic prosthetic. For most patients today, prosthetic options use a tension cord or simple mechanics to control basic movements-at most, opening and closing a pincers and extending an elbow.

“Wow,” whispered Burke’s brother, Chris Griffith, as he watched his sister demonstrate not only pointing, pinching and waving, but flexing, rotating and extending in all directions. While Burke isn’t surprised to have maintained the capacity she took for granted for the first 26 years of her life, the prospect of returning to normal made her giddy. “I feel like a kid on a bike,” said Burke, looking the part as she bounced in her chair at her dining room table, flexing brainpower that had been lying dormant since she lost her arm. “I feel special.” Dr Albert Chi, a trauma surgeon at Johns Hopkins Hospital, said Burke is indeed special. Chi has been working for the past year with researchers at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab and patients who could benefit from the prosthetic technology. To make it work, Chi figured patients would require surgery to replant nerve endings detached during amputation into muscle at the arm’s end.

That would restore muscle stimulation at the amputation site, enabling detection of intended movements for the missing limb.

Burke stumbled across Chi by way

of a blurb in Popular Mechanics her father saw that highlighted the physics lab’s work developing the most lifelike prosthetic arm ever assembled. The device, only six of which exist, is considered the most advanced ever created, with nearly all the dexterity and precision of a real arm. After an Internet search and a phone call, she was on the line with Michael McLoughlin, program manager for the modular prosthetic limb project at the applied physics lab.

McLoughlin referred Burke to Chi, who met with her to prepare for the surgery, known as targeted muscle reinnervation. But it turned out she didn’t need the surgery.

When she later visited the lab this spring and was connected to the

limb-by Feb 1. The scientists’ efforts began in 2006, under a program of the US military’s Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency known as Revolutionizing Prosthetics. The government hired the Hopkins applied physics lab in 2010 for the $35 million job of managing development of the arm, as more and more soldiers returned from Iraq and Afghanistan with amputations.

“What’s available commercially is woefully inadequate,” Col Geoffrey SF Ling, a physician and war veteran who manages the military program, told The Baltimore Sun that year. “We also set the bar really high. We want to give them back their lives.” Since then, McLoughlin and researchers have tallied up 3,000 hours of experience with the device, fine-tuning the

PENNSYLVANIA: Dana Burke, left, a Pennsylvania woman who was shot in the arm 14 years ago, is testing a thought-controlled prosthetic arm. —MCT photos

PENNSYLVANIA: Dana Burke smiles before beginning another day of testing of a thought-controlled prosthetic arm. arm, she almost immediately was able to control it. “It was amazing,” Chi said. “My jaw almost hit the floor.” Chi found that after Burke’s amputation, the surgeon reattached loose nerves to the muscle that remained above where her elbow once was. That meant that when her brain sent signals down toward the hand, instead of disappearing into her tissue, they were transferred to muscle in the rounded end of her arm. “It was a progressive thinker, whoever did that surgery,” Chi said. “It was against the norm.” The researchers are in the midst of 10 straight days of visiting Burke at her home and finetuning her control of the virtual device. They plan to outfit her with the real thing-a slightly simpler version of the lab’s modular prosthetic

technology that directs its movement. Sensors placed around an amputated arm detect patterns in firing muscles when subjects are told to imagine making particular movements. Once a pattern is established, it can be assigned to an action; the more complex the pattern data collected, the more lifelike the movement.

“It’s almost more important than coloring it right,” said Bobby Armiger, one of the physics lab researchers, of amputees’ need for prosthetics that mimic human motion as much as possible. Such thought-controlled robotic motion has been achieved in the past. Under an earlier project sponsored by the military research agency, Duke University researchers taught monkeys to operate a robotic arm by thought alone, but that was

through wires implanted in their brains. In another venture, a patient at the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago was able to operate an arm using sensors attached to his chest muscles, to which arm nerves had been grafted.

But the modular prosthetic limb project goes beyond both, the Hopkins researchers said, because it doesn’t require any sensors to be implanted, and, as in Burke’s case, doesn’t even require surgery.

Elsewhere, projects include efforts to build a thought-controlled, whole-body exoskeleton for paralyzed patients and to create a substance that would fuse severed nerves with robotic limbs.

After six years of development, the researchers say they are ready to put the technology to use. Along with Burke, a second patient will also soon be outfitted with a thought-controlled device-a West Virginia man who, along with Chi, will be featured in an upcoming segment devoted to the breakthrough on CBS’ “60 Minutes.” But there are hurdles to giving more amputees such an opportunity.

For one, the technology is relatively unknown and the pool of potential patients with amputations above the elbow is small enough that few realize it’s an option. Burke had no idea until last January, when her father spotted the magazine feature. But just over a year later, she’ll have her own version. Chi said he hears from interested patients every few months, gaining a handful each year. Recent calls have come from California and Arizona, but hopping on a plane to spend weeks working with Chi, McLoughlin and their colleagues isn’t so simple.

Testing of the prosthetic technology with patients has been going on at the University of Pittsburgh and Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and more patients will be recruited soon at the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, McLoughlin said. Most amputees would need to go through the nerve surgery that Burke didn’t require, Chi said, but that could change if her case is any lesson. “This is a game-changer for all trauma surgeons,” Chi said.

If more doctors took the extra few minutes to reattach nerves to muscle during amputation surgeries, it could make the later surgery unnecessary, Chi said. It also would help patients avoid the phantom limb pain that can occur when nerves remain detached. The fact that Burke didn’t need it means she will get her prosthetic at least six months earlier than she might have otherwise. Still, the prosthetic itself remains cost-prohibitive for commercial production. The goal is to reduce the cost per arm to less than $30,000, but it’s nowhere near that now. The researchers are exploring whether production could be paid for by a philanthropic organization or nonprofit-”something not looking for a return on investment but for the good of our soldiers and others who need limbs,” McLoughlin said. — MCT

Dearth of specialists sends poor to ER LOS ANGELES: The blurry vision began early last year. Roy Lawrence ignored it as long as he could. But after falling off a ladder at his construction job, he knew he had to see a doctor. He went to a community health clinic in South Los Angeles, where doctors determined he had diabetes and cataracts. The clinic could manage his illness but referred him early this year to the county health system for eye surgery. Nearly a year later, Lawrence, a Jamaican immigrant without insurance, still is waiting for the operation. His vision has deteriorated so much he is considered legally blind.

“I want to see again,” he said. “I’ve been waiting a long time.” Lawrence, 49, and patients like him are posing a critical challenge for the planned overhaul of the nation’s health care system. Federal officials are investing billions in community health centers like the To Help Everyone (T.H.E.) Clinic, where Lawrence’s problem was diagnosed, with the hope that they can keep more patients out of high-cost emergency rooms.

But a dearth of specialists available to lowincome patients presents one of the bigger hurdles facing the country as it tries to bring spiraling health care costs under control.

Doctors say meeting new government mandates to keep patients healthy and out of hospitals-a linchpin in reducing medical spending-will be virtually impossible without the ability to make timely patient appointments with specialists.

By the end of the decade, the nation will be short more than 46,000 surgeons and specialists, a nearly tenfold increase from 2010, according to the Association of American

Medical Colleges. Health care reform is expected to worsen the problem as more patients-many with complex and deferred health needs-become insured and seek specialized treatment.

Many of the newly insured will receive Medi-Cal, the government plan for the needy as administered through the state of California. Clinics already struggle to get private specialists to see Medicaid patients because of the low payments to doctors. Last week, an appellate court decision that authorized the state to move forward with 10 percent cuts in Medi-Cal reimbursement, which could make finding doctors for those patients even more difficult. “Specialists are paid so poorly that they don’t want to take Medi-Cal patients,” said Mark Dressner, a Long Beach clinic doctor and president-elect of the California Academy of Family Physicians.

“We’re really disappointed and concerned what it’s going to do for patient access.”

The health care overhaul includes initiatives aimed at reducing shortages of general medicine professionals but does little to increase the availability of specialists. In Los Angeles County, the sheer volume of poor or uninsured patients needing specialist services has long overwhelmed the public health system, creating costly inefficiencies and appointment delays that can stretch as long as a year and half.

Patients’ conditions often must be dire for them to see a neurologist, cardiologist or other specialist quickly. Community clinics try to bypass the backed-up formal government referral system by pleading, cajoling and negotiating to get less critically ill patients like

LOS ANGELES: Dr David Hwang examines the eyes of Roy Lawrence at the Los Angeles County/USC Medical Center. —MCT Lawrence moved up on waiting lists.

“Where needs are absolutely critical, we are able to work out special arrangements,” said Rise Phillips, chief executive of T.H.E. Clinic.

“That is not the norm. That is, rather, the exception.” At times, clinic staff members are forced to work against one of their key missions by sending patients to emergency rooms to increase the odds of their seeing a specialist more quickly. The challenge can be seen in Belinda De Leon’s cubicle in a small, windowless back corner of T.H.E. Clinic. A referral specialist, De Leon spends her days trying to speed up appointments for the center’s clients-and fielding calls from patients wanting to know how much longer they have to wait. At any given time, she’s juggling more than 1,000 pending referrals.

One involves uninsured housekeeper Juana Barrera. — MCT

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

health & science

8 tips for hiring a personal trainer CHARLOTTE: Trying to get in better shape?

Maybe it’s time you asked for help from a personal trainer. “If you’re in need of a personal trainer, it’s probably because permanent changes are overdue and need to start happening immediately,” says Taylor Carpenter, with TaylorCarpenter Personal Training in Charlotte, NC. A personal trainer can fill several vital roles-tailoring a workout regimen to your needs, making sure your form and technique are good. Perhaps the biggest advantage: a personal trainer provides accountability. Dennis McGarry of Charlotte succeeded with the business he started 32 years ago but could never duplicate that success with exercise and health. “Unfortunately, while I am extremely disciplined in my business endeavors I just couldn’t do the same in a fitness and diet effort,” he said.

Easing into retirement a year ago at age 67, overweight and out of shape, he enlisted the aid of Jonathan Avalos with Shape Up Fitness and Wellness Consulting. “While I am still overweight, my fitness has improved dramatically,” says McGarry. “I still have a ways to go ... but I’ve come a long way in just one year.”

Wouldn’t mind sounding like McGarry a year from now? Here’s some advice, from personal trainers and those who employ them, on how to hire a trainer of your own.

1. Qualifications. A trainer with a fouryear degree in a related field is preferable.

“A person with an actual degree in exercise science or physiology carries a better understanding of how the body works, how muscles work,” says Melanie Dean with Gateway to Health & Performance in Cary, NC, who holds a master’s of science. Look for personal training certifications; especially look for certifications that require continuing education, which helps keep a trainer current on trends and research.

2. Experience. While formal education is important, experience with clients is vital as well. Ask to speak with a couple of clients for references.

3. Area of focus. Some trainers focus on specific clients. If, for instance, a trainer specializes in helping high-performing athletes tweak their performance and you simply want to lose some weight and increase your mobility, maybe it’s not a good fit.

4. Curiosity. During your interview, the

trainer should ask you more questions than you ask the trainer. “A big part of the process is listening to where they are right now, what limitations there are, what their goals are ...,” says Dean.

Knee issues forced Pamela Bennett of Charlotte to abandon her long-standing martial arts practice. She’d fallen out of shape but wasn’t a fitness novice. She was skeptical when she first met Michael Anders, a personal trainer and owner of Shape Up, because she wasn’t sure he’d pay attention to her goals.

“I needed someone to listen to me and work with the goals I wanted to achieve, not try to define goals for me,” says Bennett. That was seven years ago; she continues to work with Anders.

“You should feel a comfort level immediately,” says Jessica Bottesch with Empower Personal Training in Durham. “Are they taking my goals seriously and not just prescribing a cookie-cutter program?”

5. Commitment. Most trainers suggest working with a trainer two to three times a week, at least initially. This is especially true if one of your problems has been motivation. The frequent visits can help establish a routine. Once you fall into that routine, you can cut back your visits.

6. Team player? Because healthy living isn’t simply about working out in the gym, check to see if the trainer works with and will refer you to other health care professionals. If you’re diabetic, for instance, the trainer should bring in a nutritionist or dieti-

NORTH CAROLINA: Carol Richter, left, works with personal trainer Michael Anders at Shape Up Fitness & Wellness Consulting in Charlotte. —MCT photos

cian to consult. If you have muscular dystrophy or fibromyalgia, you might want a masseuse. “A good trainer should have no problem crossing over lines,” says Dean.

7. Cost. The trainers we spoke with said to avoid anyone who requires a long-term commitment. “I work on a month-to-month basis with a 30-day money-back guarantee,” says Anders. Most personal trainers charge by the session.

A one-hour session in a gym will run $45-$65. (Less experienced trainers may charge less.) A trainer with a related degree will run more, perhaps: $60-$65. And if the trainer comes to you, expect to pay $60$100 or more.

8. Flexibility. “Maybe you don’t need three times a week,” says Empower’s Bottesch. “Maybe once a week or even once a month is good. The trainer should be willing to show you things you can do on your own.” Another option: group fitness. “It’s not quite the same tailored approach, but it is a much lower price point and you still have access to a trainer.”

Certifiable?

Here’s a quick guide to some of the more prominent personal trainer certifications, including format of courses and recertification requirements.

American Council on Exercise (ACE).

Nonprofit, online and live workshops, recertification required every two years with 20 hours of credits. www.acefitness.org American College on Sports Medicine (ACSM).

Nonprofit, online and live workshops, recertification required every three years with 45 hours of credits. www.acsm.org/ National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). Forprofit, online and live workshops, recertification required every two years with 20 hours of credits. www.nasm.org National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Nonprofit, self-study through workbooks and CDs, recertification requirements vary. http://nsca.com Aerobics and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). For-profit, online and life workshops, recertification required every two years with 15 hours of credit. www.afaa.com American Fitness Professionals & Associates (AFPA). For-profit, online study, recertification required every two years with 16 hours. www.afpafitness.com. —MCT

Here’s an excellent way to stretch the muscles in back of your legs and your hips. —MCT photos

Strap helps keep alignment during stretch Here’s an excellent way to stretch the muscles in back of your legs and your hips. Use a strap to help you maintain a straight spine, and if you have sensitive knees or tight hips, place your foot against your inner knee instead of your inner thigh.

1. Sitting on the floor, straighten your left leg in front of you. Bend your right knee, placing the sole of your foot against your left inner thigh or knee. Holding the ends of a strap with each hand, wrap the strap behind your left foot.

Inhale, lift your chest and lengthen your spine.

2. On an exhalation, keep your spine long as you lean forward from your hips. Stop and hold once you feel the stretch in the back of your left leg and right hip. Be sure to flex both feet. As your muscles release, bend forward a little more and hold for 30 seconds. To come up, let go of the strap, walk your hands back toward your hips, then lift your torso up. Switch legs and repeat on the other side. — MCT

A strap helps keep alignment during stretch.

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

WHAT’S ON

FASTtelco holds open day for employees SEND US YOUR INSTAGRAM PICS hat’s more fun than clicking a beautiful picture? Sharing it with others! Let other people see the way you see Kuwait - through your lens. Friday Times will feature snapshots of Kuwait through Instagram feeds. If you want to share your Instagram photos, email us at instagram@kuwaittimes.net

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Greetings

ASTtelco has welcomed all the company’s employees at its “Open Day” employee event held on Friday December 21, at 5 star Safir Hotel, Mangaf.

Attended by the company’s employees and their respective families, the open day was a great occasion for FASTtelco, to express its gratitude to all FASTtelco employees for their hard work and sincere efforts in closing the year successfully. Highlighting on the team building efforts the company is undergoing,VP of Human Resources Fahid Rashed stated: “ This open Family Day is aimed at enhancing interaction amongst our employees and promot-

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ing the “One Family Spirit” throughout the company, as well as recognizing the dedicated efforts of our working team which have enabled us to maintain a leading position in the market.

Coming to end a prosperous year of success and accomplishment, this event will continually raiseFASTtelco’sreputation and brand name, to be among the top leading ISP’s in the region.”

Rashed further affirmed that, FASTtelco’s employees are the cornerstone of the company’s success. He also mentioned the company’s recent accomplishments and reaffirmedits ongoing efforts to provide employees

with a secure, comfortable and positive work environment that promotes creativity and productivity.

Rashedexplained thatthis event comes as part ofFASTtelco’s corporate strategy aimed at retaining, supportingand motivating the employees to continuously improve their performance and develop their professional skills.

Held amidst a warm family atmosphere, FASTtelco Family Day included a special detailed entertainment program prepared for all ages, this day has reflected the key role of the employees’ team spirit as well as always overcoming challenges to achieve success in all devours.

Fahid Rashed

appy birthday to Ayesha.

Best wishes from father Munir Badshah, mother Rajiya, grandfather Aabid Bukhari Sameer and family.

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Dr Hakim Quick to hold workshops nder the patronage of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, Islamic Center of Kuwait - the English speaking Muslim community in Kuwait (ICK www.ickuwait.org) has invited Shaikh Dr Abdullah Hakim Quick from Canada for a week-long programs in Kuwait.

Over the last three decades, he has visited over 60 countries in the east and the west and spoken to tens of thousands of people. He has spoken at universities, stadiums, mosques, churches, TV programs and public squares. His audiences have included Muslims, nonMuslims, academics, laypersons, artists, politicians and religious leaders. His regular appearance in Peace TV, Huda TV, Islam Channel etc. is a testimony to his abilities.

He has been a lifelong advocate of women’s rights and has regularly spoken against racism. He is quite specialized in the field of empowerment of youths as well.

Dr Quick has made many worthy well researched scholarly presentations on history of the spread of Islam in Africa, Caribbean and the Americas. His contributions at numerous annual conferences around the globe are commendable. His knowledge on expansion of Islam in to Spain is unique. His publications are many since the year 1990 which is yet another hallmark of his service to Islam and the Ummah as a whole.

He obtained his Doctorate in “West African Islamic History” from University of Toronto in 1995, prior to which he received his BA in Da’wah and Islamic Sciences from University of Medina in Saudi Arabia in 1979. Currently he is the Senior Lecturer and head of the History Department of Al-Maghrib Institute, Ottawa, Canada. He has enormous experience with teaching and setting up of schools and training centers around the world.

Born and bred in Boston USA, in a deeply religious Christian family, Dr Quick was able to mix together with educated people as he was living in between two major universities. He gradually started looking in to other religions and found Islam while in Canada where he embraced this great religion in 1970. In 1973 he got the opportunity to pursue his further studies in Madinah which brought him to his current state. He eventually became the first American to graduate out of Saudi Arabia.

Dr. Quick will give the main speech about “Our Golden Past, Our Bright Future” on Thursday. 27th December 2012 in Jamiyat Al-Islah Hall in Rawda. He will deliver Friday sermon in Masjid Al-Othman, besides Kuwait Parliament in Kuwait City. Besides other programs, Dr. Quick will also have a workshop on “Muslim Spain’s Legacy” in Masjid Al-Kabeer on 29th December 2012.

With this treasure of knowledge and experience, there is no doubt that the English Speaking Community of Muslims in Kuwait will benefit enormously from the current visit of Dr Quick to Kuwait.

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Euphoric jubilance dawns at IIS he pleasant wintry morning of 15 December 2012, enfolded the exuberant array of spectacular events as it was the 5TH glorious Intramural Athletic Meet of India International school in the sprawling grounds of AlSahel Club, Mangaf. The program was graced by the presence of honorable chief guest Satish Chand Mehta, Ambassador of India to Kuwait, eminent dignitaries Bushra, from the Ministry of Private Education, Muzammil Malik Owner of Al Khulaib General Trading Company, Ismail Payyoli-Journalist, Rajesh Sagar -Legal Advisor Of PACE group, Siddique Valivakath, Saley Batha, M.K Pothen - senior expat of Kuwait, distinguished principals from the contemporary CBSE schools in Kuwait, Shyamala Divakaran-Gulf Indian School, Shafeeq Ahmed - Integrated Indian School and Baldwin Anthony -Al Amal Indian School. They were accorded a warm welcome and received cordially by the director Malayil Moosa Koya, Principal F.M. Basheer Ahmed, Vice Principal Narender Kaur and K.G (HOS) Shifana Muizz.

The auspicious day began with an invocation to the Almighty. The recitation of the verses from the holy Qur’an was presented perfectly by Mohammed Azhar and its authentic translation was given

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by Mafaza Sharafuddin. F.M Basheer highlighted the glimpses and achievements of India International School, particularly the recent achievements of the sports champions Master Mohammed Saleh of class XI acclaimed as “the fastest runner in Kuwait”, Master Sahaj Bafna Of class XII, winner of 5 Gold Medals in “Swimming” and Master Ahmed.

The first part of the cultural program was “MULTIFARIOUS INDIA”, organized under the guidance of Sophy John the coordinator and her team of teachers. It was a kaleidoscopic

performance reflecting the different states of India. The second part of the cultural program was SPARKLING PANACHE. Under the auspices of Sapna Raoof - the coordinator and her team of talented teachers, the sprightly students of class III,IV and V displayed their talent with confidence and stylishness. “SNAPPY STARS”, under the guidance of Indulekha -the coordinator and her team of dedicated teachers, the energetic students of class VI,VII and VIII was performed with spirit and enthusiasm.

Abhinav Sudheer

Adel A Karim

Ashwin Joe Prince

Cyril Joy

Divyajith

Johsua Sunny

Melwin Kurien

Noushad Ali

Shabir Salim

Dhanup

Ifthikar

Naveen Kumar

Syed Aamir

Praveen

Rino Roy

Sarath Mohan

Shelton Shibu

Junima Johnson

Juwaida B

Mizna M Naizer

Neha Imtiyaz Thakur

Nikhila Elankovan

Aparna C

Ashley Martin

Embassy holidays Pakistan Embassy The Embassy of Islamic Republic of Pakistan will remain closed tomorrow December 25, 2012, on the occasion of birth anniversary of Quaid-E-Azam Mohammad Ali Jinnah and Christmas. The Embassy will resume its services on Wednesday December 26, 2012.

French Embassy The French Embassy in Kuwait will be closed on Christmas Day tomorrow, December the 25th, 2012 and on the occasion of the New Year Tuesday, January 1st, 2013.

Indian Embassy The Embassy of India will remain closed on 01 January, 2013, Tuesday being New Year Day.

Micah Rachel

Write to us

Sharon E Clare

Sharon M Diaz

Afia Begum

Manna Elizabeth

Sushmitha Mariam

GIS feathers its sports cap again!

Send to What’s On upcoming events, birthdays or celebrations by email: local@kuwaittimes.net Fax: 24835619 / 20

Raina Mariam Koshy

he perseverance and patience of the young athletes of Gulf Indian School paid rich dividends when the school shot to the third position at CBSE Kuwait Cluster Athletic Meet held on 2nd, 3rd and 4th December 2012. The

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school clinched the third position with a grand tally of 202 points.

The young athletes amassed 9 gold, 20 silver and 16 bronze medals. Abhinav Sudheer of class X secured the individual Championship in the under-16 category

with 3 gold & I silver bringing pride and joy to the GIS fraternity. 12 of our stars have been qualified for the Nationals to be held in India this month.

Gulf Indian School lays as much importance to sports as academics and

imparts training to aspiring athletes. The talented pupils have been given intensive training by Physical Education teachers Mrs. Mariamma Santhosh and Vinod Arjunan. Congratulations to the students and teachers!

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

WHAT’S ON

Embassy Information

Chevrolet, Yusuf A Alghanim invites fans to meet Man Utd legend Peter Shmeichel hevrolet & Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons Automotive, the exclusive distributor of Chevrolet vehicles in Kuwait hosted an evening with one of the world’s best goalkeepers of all time and Manchester United legend, Peter Schmeichel, at the Historical, Vintage and Classic Cars Museum in Shuwaikh on December 10, 2012. Earlier this year, it was announced that the official Manchester United’s shirt sponsor in the 2014/2015 season will be Chevrolet.

Chevrolet, the current Official automotive Partner of the Club, will become only the fifth shirt sponsor in the Club’s 134 year history. The event was attended

by VIP customers, Manchester United supporters club in Kuwait, Corvette and Camaro clubs, distinguished media, bloggers, alongside Yusuf A. Alghanim officials and representatives from General Motors.

The much-awaited evening was dedicated towards the press

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and audience as they directed questions towards Schmeichel that ranged from his love and passion for soccer and Manchester United to interesting

fans and soccer lovers who took the opportunity to meet Peter Schmeichel in person before taking a photo with the legend.

Shmeichel also surprised the fans

which were 4 Manchester united accessorized Chevrolet vehicles which astonished the attendees, Including the stunning 2013 Cruze with mylink system, rough-

opportunity as everyone got a chance to meet the legend and return home with a smile on their face and growing love for Manchester United in their

trivia associated to Chevrolet and its wide variety of cars. Following the question and answer activities, Shmeichel dedicated time for photo opportunities on the special dugout seats. The highly anticipated event attracted enthusiastic Manchester United

of Manchester united by signing shirts and scarfs. A lucky handful also got the chance to go home with an official Manchester United soccer ball signed by Schmeichel himself.

Apart from the legend, there were other stars In the event

road ready All New 2013 Trailblazer, mighty 2013 Camaro ZL1 and the elegant 2013 Malibu.

Yusuf A. Alghanim & Sons Automotive strives to tailor events that would attract the youth of Kuwait, and The event proved to be a once in a lifetime

hearts. Visit us on our social media platforms including: Alghanim Automotive on Facebook, AlghanimAuto on Twitter and Instagram to experience Chevrolet & Yusuf A. Alghanim Automotive world.

—Photos by Joseph Shagra

Ukrainian community holds friendship day n December 22nd, a meeting of representatives of the local Ukrainian community took place at the premises of Embassy of Ukraine in the State of Kuwait.

The event was held on occasion of celebrating the first anniversary of the creation of the Public Union of Ukrainian-Kuwaiti Friendship, Day of Ukrainian Diplomacy, Christmas and New Year holidays.

During the meeting the Union, uniting Ukrainians who live in Kuwait as well as citizens of the emirate and other Arab countries, had summarized their common activities during 2012.

Among the special achievements under the auspices of the Minister of Information, Minister of State for Youth Affairs of Kuwait, Sheikh Salman S.As-Sabah the first “International shooting com-

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petition”, festive evenings devoted to the Day of Constitution of Ukraine, Victory Day and the memory of the great Ukrainian poet Tarts Shevchenko, common watching of the matches of the football championship finals Euro-2012, a contest of the national cuisine on the

occasion of Easter were marked.

With the assistance of the Union, which activity is coordinated by Svitlana Arndt, a delegation of Kuwaiti children for the first time introduced emirate at the 11th Festival “Let’s change the world for the better”, held in summer

2012 in the International Children’s Center “Artek” (Ukraine).

Participants on the meeting discussed in particular further steps of the Public Union of Ukrainian-Kuwaiti Friendship in the next 2013 year.

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EMBASSY OF CANADA The Canadian Embassy in Kuwait does not have a visa or immigration department. All processing of visa and immigration matters including enquiries is conducted by the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, UAE Individuals who are interested in working, studying, visiting or immigrating to Canada should contact the Canadian Embassy in Abu Dhabi, website: www.UAE.gc.ca or www.goingtocanada.gc.ca, E-mail: abdbi-im-enquiry@international.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is located at Villa 24, Al-Mutawakei St, Block 4 in Da’aiyah. Please visit our website at www.Kuwait.gc.ca. The Embassy of Canada is open from 7:30 to 15:30 Sunday through Thursday. The reception is closed for lunch from 12:30 to 13:00. Consular services for Canadian citizens are provided from 09:00 until 12:00, Sunday through Wednesday.

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EMBASSY OF CYPRUS In its capacity as EU Local Presidency in the State of Kuwait, the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus, on behalf of the Member States of the EU and associated States participating in the Schengen cooperation, would like to announce that as from 2nd October 2012 all Schengen States’ Consulates in Kuwait will use the Visa Information System (VIS). The VIS is a central database for the exchange of data on short-stay (up to three months) visas between Schengen States. The main objectives of the VIS are to facilitate visa application procedures and checks at external border as well as to enhance security. The VIS will contain all the Schengen visa applications lodged by an applicant over five years and the decisions taken by any Schengen State’s consulate. This will allow applicants to establish more easily the lawful use of previous visas and their bona fide status. For the purpose of the VIS, applicants will be required to provide their biometric data (fingerprints and digital photos) when applying for a Schengen visa. It is a simple and discreet procedure that only takes a few minutes. Biometric data, along with the data provided in the Schengen visa application form, will be recorded in the VIS central database. Therefore, as from 2nd October 2012, first-time applicants will have to appear in person when lodging the application, in order to provide their fingerprints. For subsequent applications within 5 years the fingerprints can be copied from the previous application file in the VIS. The Cypriot Presidency would like to assure the people of Kuwait and all its permanent citizens that the Member States and associated States participating in the Schengen cooperation, have taken all necessary technical measures to facilitate the rapid examination and the efficient processing of visa applications and to ensure a quick and discreet procedure for the implementation of the new VIS. ■■■■■■■

EMBASSY OF KENYA The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya wishes to inform the Kenyan community residents throughout Kuwait and the general public that the Embassy has acquired new office telephone numbers as follows: 25353982, 25353985 - Consular’s enquiries 25353987 - Fax Our Email address: info@kenyaembkuwait.com.

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Bhavanites bask in successive success in Interschool competitions he invincible Bhavanites paraded their prodigious panache at FAIPS DPS and Integrated Indian School last week. Bhavanites enjoyed succeeding success in the Interschool Cultural Fiesta organized by FAIPS named Ingenia 2012.

Ingenia provides the students of Indian

EMBASSY OF AUSTRALIA The Australian Embassy Kuwait does not have a visa or immigration department.

All processing of visas and immigration matters in conducted by The Australian Consulate-General in Dubai. Email: info.ausdxb@vfshelpline.com (VFS) immigration.dubai@dfat.gov.au (Visa Office); Tel: +971 4 355 1958 (VFS) - +971 4 508 7200 (Visa Office); Fax: +971 4 355 0708 (Visa Office).

In Kuwait applications can be lodged at the Australian Visa Application Centre 4B 1st Floor, Al-Banwan Building Al-Qibla Area, Ali Al-Salem Street, opposite the Central Bank of Kuwait, Kuwait City, Kuwait. Working hours and days: 09:30 - 17:30; Sunday - Thursday. Or visit their website www.vfs-au-gcc-com for more information. Kuwait citizens can apply for tourist visas on-line at www.immi.gov.au/e visa/e676.htm.

schools in Kuwait with a platform to flaunt their flairs in the fields of music ,art and dance.

Bhavanites bagged many prizes and accolades in the Ingenia cultural fiesta including the first and second positions in Pencil Sketching and Indian Folk Dance

categories respectively. Bhavans was declared the first runners up in the Ingenia Cultural Fiesta. Bhavanites enjoyed success yet again in the Interschool Dance Competition organized by the Integrated Indian School, Jleeb Al Shouaikh.

The semi classical dance spiced up with

dashes of Indian Folk Dance style performed by the sprouting talents of Bhavans has not only won the hearts of the audience, but also the second prize and a trophy for its elegance.

EMBASSY OF MYANMAR Embassy of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar would like to inform the general public that the Embassy has moved its office to new location at Villa 35, Road 203, Block 2, Al-Salaam Area in South Surra. The Embassy wishes to advice Myanmar citizens and travellers to Myanmar to contact Myanmar Embassy at its new location. Tel. 25240736, 25240290, Fax: 25240749, email:myankuwait11@gmai1.com.

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EMBASSY OF NIGERIA The Nigerian embassy has its new office in Mishref. Block 3, Street 7, House 4. For enquires please call 25379541. Fax25387719. Email- nigeriakuwait@yahoo.com or nigeriankuwait@yahoo.co.uk.

■■■■■■■

EMBASSY OF PERU The Embassy of Peru is located in Sharq, Ahmed Al Jaber Street, Al Arabiya Tower, 6th Floor. Working days / hours: SundayThursday /9 am - 4 pm. Residents in Kuwait interested in getting a visa to travel to Peru and companies attracted to invest in Peru are invited to visit the permanent exposition room located in the Embassy. For more information, please contact: (+965) 22267250/1.

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

TV PROGRAMS

00:50 01:45 02:35 03:25 03:50 04:15 05:05 05:55 06:45 07:35 08:00 08:25 09:15 10:10 11:05 12:00 16:35 20:15 20:40 21:10 21:35 22:05 23:00 23:55

Untamed & Uncut Animal Cops Philadelphia Biggest And Baddest Shamwari: A Wild Life Shamwari: A Wild Life Wildest Islands Sharkman Animal Cops Philadelphia Baby Planet Wildlife SOS The Really Wild Show Growing Up...

Dogs 101 Must Love Cats Saba And The Rhino’s Secret Karina: Wild On Safari Baboons With Bill Bailey Monkey Life Bondi Vet Call Of The Wildman Cheetah Kingdom Lions And Giants Ned Bruha: Skunk Whisperer My Cat From Hell

00:35 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 01:15 Kirstie & Phil’s Perfect Christmas 02:05 Come Dine With Me 03:00 Antiques Roadshow 03:50 Bargain Hunt 04:35 Masterchef: The Professionals 06:00 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 06:25 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 07:10 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is 08:00 MasterChef Australia 09:15 Rick Stein’s French Odyssey 09:45 Rick Stein’s Far Eastern Odyssey: Christmas 10:40 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow 11:25 Kirstie & Phil’s Perfect Christmas 12:15 Come Dine With Me 13:05 Antiques Roadshow 14:00 Bargain Hunt 14:45 Masterchef: The Professionals 15:40 Masterchef: The Professionals 16:05 Baking Made Easy 16:35 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 17:15 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition 18:00 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow 18:45 Kirstie & Phil’s Perfect Christmas 19:35 Come Dine With Me 20:25 Antiques Roadshow 21:15 Bargain Hunt 22:00 Masterchef: The Professionals 23:50 Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

00:00 00:30 01:00 01:30 02:00 02:30 02:45 03:00 03:30 04:00 04:30 04:45 05:00 05:30 05:45 06:00 06:30 06:45 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 08:45 09:00 09:30 09:45 10:00

BBC World News Pick Of The Year BBC World News Our World Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today Newsday India Business Report Newsday Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC World News Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC World News Asia Business Report Sport Today BBC World News Hardtalk BBC World News World Business Report BBC World News BBC World News World Business Report BBC World News BBC World News

10:30 World Business Report 10:45 BBC World News 11:30 World Business Report 11:45 BBC World News 12:30 Hardtalk 13:00 BBC World News 13:30 World Business Report 13:45 BBC World News 15:00 GMT With George Alagiah 15:30 GMT With George Alagiah 16:00 Impact With Mishal Husain 17:30 World Business Report 17:45 Sport Today 18:00 BBC World News 18:30 Hardtalk 19:00 The Hub With Nik Gowing 20:30 BBC Focus On Africa 21:00 BBC World News 21:30 World Business Report 21:45 Sport Today 22:00 World News Today With Zeinab Badawi 22:30 World News Today With Zeinab Badawi 23:00 BBC World News 23:30 World Business Report 23:45 Sport Today

00:20 Yogi’s Treasure Hunt 00:45 Duck Dodgers 01:10 Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries 01:35 Dastardly And Muttley 02:00 Popeye 02:25 Wacky Races 02:50 Scooby Doo Where Are You! 03:15 The Flintstones 03:40 The Jetsons 04:00 What’s New Scooby Doo? 04:20 Taz-Mania 04:45 The Looney Tunes Show 05:10 Tom & Jerry Tales 05:35 Dexter’s Laboratory 06:00 Moomins 06:25 Dexter’s Laboratory 07:00 Dexter’s Laboratory 07:30 Baby Looney Tunes 07:55 Jelly Jamm 08:10 Gerald McBoing Boing 08:35 Bananas In Pyjamas 08:50 Ha Ha Hairies 09:05 Tom & Jerry Kids 09:30 A Pup Named Scooby-Doo 09:55 Puppy In My Pocket 10:20 Wacky Races 10:45 Looney Tunes 11:10 Popeye 11:30 Yogi & The Magical Flight Of...

13:00 Ha Ha Hairies 13:15 Gerald McBoing Boing 13:40 Jelly Jamm 13:55 Baby Looney Tunes 14:20 Cartoonito Tales 14:35 Moomins 14:50 Dexter’s Laboratory 15:20 Johnny Bravo 15:45 Tom & Jerry 16:10 Pink Panther And Pals 16:35 Garfield Show, The: Home For The Holidays 17:00 Pink Panther And Pals...

17:25 It’s A Wonderful Tiny Toons...

17:50 Tom & Jerry Tales 18:00 Bugs Bunny’s 1001 Rabbit Tales 19:15 Pink Panther And Pals 19:30 Moomins 19:45 The Garfield Show 20:00 Ha Ha Hairies 20:15 Gerald McBoing Boing 20:40 Jelly Jamm 20:55 Baby Looney Tunes 21:20 Bananas In Pyjamas 21:35 Puppy In My Pocket 22:00 The Garfield Show 22:25 What’s New Scooby Doo? 22:50 Sylvester & Tweety Mysteries 23:15 Tom & Jerry Tales 23:40 The Looney Tunes Show

00:40 01:30 01:55 02:20 02:45 03:10

Chowder Bakugan Battle Brawlers Bakugan Battle Brawlers Foster’s Home For...

Foster’s Home For...

Courage The Cowardly Dog

04:00 The Amazing World Of Gumball 04:25 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 04:50 Adventure Time 05:15 The Powerpuff Girls 05:40 Generator Rex 06:05 Ben 10 06:30 Ben 10 06:55 Angelo Rules 07:00 Cow & Chicken 07:30 Casper’s Scare School 08:00 Eliot Kid 08:45 Johnny Test 09:05 The Powerpuff Girls 09:55 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 10:20 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 10:45 Courage The Cowardly Dog 11:35 Adventure Time 12:00 Powerpuff Girls, The: ‘twas The...

12:50 Ben 10: Omniverse 13:15 Courage The Cowardly Dog 14:05 Batman: The Brave And The Bold 14:30 Young Justice 14:55 Codename: Kids Next Door 15:45 Ben 10: Alien Force 16:10 Ben 10: Alien Force 16:35 Powerpuff Girls 17:00 Angelo Rules 17:20 Young Justice 17:40 Hero 108 18:00 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 18:25 The Amazing World Of Gumball 18:50 Johnny Test 19:15 Powerpuff Girls, The: ‘twas The...

20:05 Green Lantern: The Animated Series 20:30 Ben 10: Omniverse 20:55 Generator Rex 21:20 Level Up 21:45 Grim Adventures Of...

22:10 Courage The Cowardly Dog 23:00 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 23:25 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 23:50 The Powerpuff Girls

00:00 00:30 01:00 01:30 01:45 02:00 03:00 03:30 04:00 04:30 05:00 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 11:30 12:00 13:00 13:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 20:30 21:00 22:00 23:00 23:30

00:40 07:00 07:50 08:45 09:40 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:25 13:15

World Report World Sport World Report Winning Post The Gateway World Report World Report World Sport Backstory Talk Asia Fareed Zakaria GPS CNN Newsroom Sanjay Gupta MD News Special World Sport Inside Africa World Report World Report World Sport News Special World Business Today Backstory African Voices World One Fareed Zakaria GPS News Stream World Business Today International Desk Global Exchange World Sport African Voices International Desk Quest Means Business Amanpour CNN Newscenter

Superhuman Showdown Overhaulin’ Mythbusters Ultimate Survival Border Security GI Dough How Stuff’s Made How It’s Made American Chopper Wheeler Dealers

KULL THE CONQUEROR ON OSN MOVIES ACTION

14:10 14:35 15:05 15:30 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:35 21:00 21:30 22:25 23:20

Border Security GI Dough Auction Hunters Dynamo: Magician Impossible How Stuff’s Made How It’s Made Border Security Scrappers Auction Hunters World’s Toughest Drive Deadliest Catch Gold Divers

00:15 How Tech Works 00:40 How Tech Works 01:05 How Tech Works 01:35 Ways To Save The Planet 02:25 Bang Goes The Theory 02:50 Bang Goes The Theory 03:15 Things That Move 03:45 Apocalypse 2012 Revelations 04:35 Through The Wormhole With Morgan Freeman 05:25 Mega World 06:15 Junk Men 06:40 Junk Men 07:05 Bad Universe 08:00 Apocalypse 2012 Revelations 08:50 2012 Apocalypse 09:40 Head Rush 09:43 Patent Bending 10:10 How Stuff’s Made 10:40 How Do They Do It? 11:05 How Do They Do It? 11:30 Robocar 12:20 Thunder Races 13:10 The Gadget Show 13:35 The Tech Show 14:00 Apocalypse 2012 Revelations 14:50 2012 Apocalypse 15:45 Mean Green Machines 16:10 How Do They Do It? 16:35 How Do They Do It? 17:00 Head Rush 17:03 Patent Bending 17:30 How Stuff’s Made 18:00 Robocar 18:50 Space Pioneer 19:40 Thunder Races 20:30 Mega World 21:20 Ways To Save The Planet 22:10 The Gadget Show 22:35 The Tech Show 23:00 Mega World 23:50 Ways To Save The Planet

00:10 00:35 01:00 01:25 01:50 02:15 02:40 03:05 03:30 03:55 04:20 04:45 05:10 05:35 06:00 06:15 06:40 07:05 07:30 08:05 08:20 08:45 09:10 09:35 10:00 10:25 10:50 11:15 12:55 13:20 13:45 14:10 14:35 15:00 15:25 15:50 16:15 16:40 17:00 17:05 18:25 18:45 20:15 20:30 20:50 21:15 21:40 22:05 22:30 22:55 23:20 23:45 23:55

Stitch A Kind Of Magic A Kind Of Magic Replacements Replacements Emperor’s New School Emperor’s New School A Kind Of Magic A Kind Of Magic Replacements Replacements Emperor’s New School Emperor’s New School A Kind Of Magic Doc McStuffins Suite Life On Deck Suite Life On Deck A.N.T. Farm Phineas And Ferb Phineas And Ferb Jessie Suite Life On Deck Suite Life On Deck Austin And Ally Jessie Shake It Up A.N.T. Farm High School Musical Jessie Jessie A.N.T. Farm A.N.T Farm That’s So Raven Hannah Montana Suite Life On Deck Shake It Up Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Toy Story Toons Toy Story Austin And Ally Cheetah Girls Phineas And Ferb That’s So Raven Cory In The House Kim Possible Hannah Montana Phineas And Ferb Phineas And Ferb Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place Fish Hooks Fish Hooks

00:00 Programmes Start At 7:00am KSA 07:00 Kickin It 07:25 Phineas And Ferb 07:35 Phineas And Ferb 07:50 Ultimate Spider-Man 08:15 Pokemon S15: BW Rival Destinies 08:40 Slugterra 09:05 Kickin It 09:30 Almost Naked Animals 09:55 Pair Of Kings 10:20 Phineas And Ferb 10:45 Phineas And Ferb 11:10 Phineas And Ferb 11:20 Phineas And Ferb 11:35 Pair Of Kings 12:00 Lab Rats 12:25 Kickin It 12:50 Mr. Young 13:20 Pair Of Kings 14:10 Flubber 15:50 Quad Cup 16:15 Pair Of Kings 16:40 Almost Naked Animals 17:05 Lab Rats 17:30 Slugterra 18:00 Kickin It 18:25 Phineas And Ferb 18:50 Phineas And Ferb 19:15 Phineas And Ferb 19:40 Slugterra 20:05 Mr. Young 20:30 Pair Of Kings 20:55 Scaredy Squirrel 21:20 Rated A For Awesome 21:45 Zeke & Luther 22:10 Phineas And Ferb 22:35 Ultimate Spider-Man 23:05 Kick Buttowski

00:25 Chelsea Lately 00:55 Style Star 01:25 THS 03:15 E! Investigates 04:10 E!es 05:05 Extreme Close-Up 06:00 THS 07:50 Behind The Scenes 08:20 E! News 09:15 Married To Jonas 10:15 THS 12:05 Ice Loves Coco 13:05 Kimora: Life In The Fab Lane 14:05 Kourtney & Kim Take New York 14:30 Kourtney & Kim Take New York 15:00 Style Star 15:30 E!es 16:25 Behind The Scenes 16:55 Fashion Police 17:55 E! News 18:55 THS 19:55 Keeping Up With The Kardashians 20:55 Opening Act 21:55 Married To Jonas 22:55 THS 23:55 Holly’s World

00:15 Great Crimes And Trials 00:40 Deadly Affairs 01:30 Police Women Of Memphis 02:20 Deadly Women 03:05 The Will: Family Secrets Revealed 03:55 Great Crimes And Trials 04:20 Great Crimes And Trials 04:45 Deadly Affairs 05:30 Police Women Of Memphis 06:20 Mystery Diagnosis 07:10 Disappeared 08:00 Life Or Death: Medical Mysteries 08:50 Street Patrol 09:15 Street Patrol 09:40 Real Emergency Calls 10:05 Who On Earth Did I Marry?

10:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 11:20 Murder Shift 12:10 Disappeared 13:00 Life Or Death: Medical Mysteries 13:50 Street Patrol 14:15 Street Patrol 14:40 Forensic Detectives 15:30 On The Case With Paula Zahn 16:20 Real Emergency Calls 16:45 Who On Earth Did I Marry?

17:10 Murder Shift 18:00 Disappeared 18:50 Forensic Detectives 19:40 Street Patrol 20:05 True Crime With Aphrodite Jones 20:55 Stalked: Someone’s Watching 21:20 Nightmare Next Door 22:10 Couples Who Kill 23:00 I Married A Mobster 23:25 I Married A Mobster 23:50 Scorned: Crimes Of Passion

01:05 02:50 04:40 06:15 07:45 09:15 10:50 12:20 13:50 15:30 17:10 19:10 20:40 22:00 23:55

Liebestraum The Red Shoe Diaries Child In The Night Midnight Witness Submarine X - 1 Stagecoach Till There Was You Blacula Sketches Ned Kelly Eight Men Out The Tempest Bananas Valkyrie: The Plot To Kill Hitler Mgm’s Big Screen

00:15 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 00:45 The Frankincense Trail 01:40 On Hannibal Trail 02:05 On The Camino De Santiago 02:35 Street Food Around The World 03:00 Market Values 03:30 Travel Madness 04:25 Weird & Wonderful Hotels 04:50 Young Global Hotshots 05:20 The Best Job In The World 05:45 Market Values 06:15 One Man & His Campervan 06:40 Exploring The Vine 07:10 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 08:05 The Frankincense Trail 09:00 On Hannibal Trail 09:25 On The Camino De Santiago 09:55 Street Food Around The World 10:20 Market Values 10:50 Travel Madness 11:45 Weird & Wonderful Hotels 12:10 Young Global Hotshots 12:40 Somewhere In China 13:35 My Sri Lanka With Peter Kuruvita 14:00 Exploring The Vine 14:30 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 14:55 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 15:25 The Frankincense Trail 16:20 On Hannibal Trail 16:45 On The Camino De Santiago 17:15 Street Food Around The World 17:40 Market Values 18:10 Travel Madness 19:05 Weird & Wonderful Hotels 19:30 Young Global Hotshots 20:00 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 20:30 Food Lover’s Guide To The Planet 21:00 My Sri Lanka With Peter Kuruvita 21:30 Exploring The Vine 22:00 The Best Job In The World 22:25 Market Values 22:55 One Man & His Campervan 23:20 Exploring The Vine 23:50 Street Food Around The World

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00

Doomsday Preppers Ultimate Disaster Master of Disaster Untamed Americas

THE CRY OF THE OWL ON OSN ACTION HD 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 18:30 Hot In Cleveland 20:30 Wilfred 21:00 The Daily Show Global Edition 21:30 The Colbert Report Global Edition 22:00 American Dad 22:30 Curb Your Enthusiasm 23:00 How To Make It In America

Aftermath Swamp Men Untamed Americas World’s Toughest Fixes Doomsday Preppers Ultimate Disaster Master of Disaster Untamed Americas Aftermath Swamp Men Untamed Americas World’s Toughest Fixes Doomsday Preppers Ultimate Disaster Master of Disaster Which Way To Engineering Connections Hunter Hunted Which Way To World’s Toughest Fixes

00:00 Kalahari Supercats 01:00 Wild Case Files 01:55 Orca Killing School 02:50 Night Stalkers 03:45 Caught In The Act Caught In The Act GPU Rever 04:40 Built For The Kill 05:35 Wild Mississippi 06:30 Orca Killing School 07:25 Night Stalkers 08:20 Caught In The Act Caught In The Act GPU Rever 09:15 I, Predator 10:10 Night Stalkers 11:05 Untamed Americas 12:00 Africa’s Deadliest 13:00 Secret Brazil 14:00 Secret Brazil 15:00 Caught In The Act Caught In The Act GPU Rever 16:00 Aerial Assasins 17:00 World’s Weirdest 18:00 Untamed Americas 19:00 Orca Killing School 20:00 Night Stalkers 21:00 Caught In The Act Caught In The Act GPU Rever 22:00 I, Predator 23:00 Night Stalkers

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00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

Open Graves-18 Constantine-PG15 Sanctum-18 Rocky v-PG15 Taxi-PG15 The Cry Of The Owl-PG15 Battle: Los Angeles-PG15 Taxi-PG15 Warbirds-PG15 Battle: Los Angeles-PG15 Sinners & Saints-18 Monsters-PG15

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 18:45 21:00 23:00

Black Forest-PG15 Ways To Live Forever-PG15 Big Fat Liar-PG The Adjustment Bureau-PG15 Black Forest-PG15 Once Brothers-PG15 Feed The Fish-PG15 Blackthorn-PG15 Labor Pains-PG15 Fast Five-PG15 The Inbetweeners-18 Something Borrowed-PG15

00:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 01:00 The Colbert Report 01:30 American Dad 02:00 Curb Your Enthusiasm 02:30 How To Make It In America 03:30 Hot In Cleveland 04:00 Hope & Faith 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 08:00 Hope & Faith 10:00 Two And A Half Men 11:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 12:30 Hope & Faith 14:00 Hot In Cleveland 15:00 Two And A Half Men 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 16:30 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Fairly Legal The Closer Sons Of Anarchy The Tudors Burn Notice The Closer Fairly Legal Emmerdale Coronation Street Criminal Minds The River Burn Notice Emmerdale Coronation Street Criminal Minds Fairly Legal Emmerdale Coronation Street The Ellen DeGeneres Show Criminal Minds Burn Notice Revenge Justified Sons Of Anarchy Six Feet Under

01:00 A Dangerous Man-18 03:00 Botched-18 05:00 True Justice: Urban WarfarePG15 07:00 Green Lantern: Emerald Knights-PG15 09:00 Kull The Conqueror-PG15 11:00 True Justice: Urban WarfarePG15 13:00 True Justice: Vengeance Is Mine-PG15 15:00 Kull The Conqueror-PG15 17:00 Twins Mission-PG15 19:00 Bunraku-PG15 21:15 Gridlock’d-18 23:00 Beneath The Darkness-PG15

00:00 The Legend Of Awesomest Maximus-18 02:00 Failure To Launch-PG15 04:00 The American President-PG15 06:00 The Decoy Bride-PG15 08:00 The Beverly Hillbillies-PG15 10:00 The Bad News Bears (1976) 12:00 The American President-PG15 14:00 Austin Powers In Goldmember-PG15 16:00 The Bad News Bears (1976) 18:00 12 Dates Of Christmas-PG15 20:00 The Waterboy-PG15 22:00 The Life Aquatic With Steve Zissou-PG15

01:30 A L’origine-PG15 03:45 The Insider-PG15 06:30 Dragonfly-PG15 08:15 Soldier Love Story-PG15 09:45 My Enemy’s Enemy-PG15 11:15 Le Crime Est Notre Affaire 13:15 Sundays At Tiffany’s-PG15 15:00 My Enemy’s Enemy-PG15 17:00 Country Strong-PG15 19:00 Henry’s Crime-PG15 21:00 The Man Who Came With The Snow-PG15 23:00 Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind-18

01:45 03:15 04:45 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00

Angry Juror-PG15 On Strike For Christmas-PG15 Another Year-PG15 The Conspirator-PG15 Mr. Popper’s Penguins-PG Beverly Hills Chihuahua 2-PG Rising Stars-PG15 Page Eight-PG15 Mr. Popper’s Penguins-PG

19:00 Jack And Jill-PG15 21:00 My Week With Marilyn-PG15 23:00 Shelter-PG15

01:00 Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs.

Evil-PG 02:45 Rh+ The Vampire Of Seville 04:30 Space Chimps 2: Zartog Strikes Back-PG 06:00 Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs.

Evil-PG 08:00 The Ugly Duckling In The Enchanted Forest-FAM 10:00 A Fairy Tale Christmas-PG15 11:15 Rh+ The Vampire Of Seville 12:45 Barbie: A Perfect Christmas 14:00 Dolphin Tale-PG 16:00 Sammy’s Adventure: The Secret Passage-FAM 18:00 A Fairy Tale Christmas-PG15 19:30 The Wild Thornberrys Movie 21:45 Barbie: A Perfect Christmas 23:30 Sammy’s Adventure: The Secret Passage-FAM

02:00 Twenty20 Big Bash League 05:00 European Challenge Cup 07:00 Twenty20 Big Bash League 13:00 Darts 21:00 The Open Championship Official Film 22:00 The USPGA Championship Official Film 23:00 The Ryder Cup Official Film

00:00 03:00 07:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 13:00 16:00 17:30 18:00 20:30 23:00 23:30

Live NFL Darts Darts Trans World Sport ICC Cricket 360 Futbol Mundial Twenty20 Big Bash League Volvo Ocean Race Highlights NFL Game Day NFL NFL NFL Game Day Trans World Sport

01:00 Spirit of Yachting 01:30 Spirit of Yachting 02:00 Trans World Sport 03:00 PGA European Tour Highlights 04:00 Pro 12 06:00 Ladies European Highlights 07:00 Golfing World 08:00 PGA European Tour Highlights 09:00 Spirit of Yachting 09:30 Pro 12 11:30 Pro 12 13:30 Golfing World 14:30 PGA European Tour Highlights 15:30 Spirit of Yachting 16:00 Top 14 Highlights 16:30 Twenty20 Big Bash League 19:30 Trans World Sport 20:30 Golfing World 21:30 Pro 12 23:30 AFL Premiership Highlights

02:00 03:00 04:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 12:00 13:00 13:30

WWE Bottom Line UFC The Ultimate Fighter UFC 147 WWE Bottom Line WWE Experience PrizeFighter V8 Supercars Extra UAE National Race Day This Week in WWE

00:45 North By Northwest-PG 03:00 The Formula 04:55 Lady L-PG 06:40 Father’s Little Dividend-FAM 08:00 These Wilder Years-PG 09:30 The Hill-PG 11:35 Julie-PG 13:10 Singin’ In The Rain-FAM 14:50 North By Northwest-PG 17:05 The Wonderful World Of The...-FAM 19:15 The Champ-PG

Classifieds MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

24-12-2012 FOR SALE Indoor plants, 7-seater coffee colored velvet sofa, center table and other. items at Hateen Villa. Contact: 25221890 / 99405162.

(C 4257) 20-12-2012 Mazda (6) white color 2003, excellent condition, insurance one year, KD 1,100.

Mob: 66729295. (C 4256) 18-12-2012

CHANGE OF NAME I, Abdul Rasheed Nelliyot Thodi, holder of Indian Passport No H0113546 hereby change my name as Abdul Rasheed Parambil, Pottayil House, Periymbalam, P O Pulikkal, Malappuram - 673637, Kerala. (C 4259)

I, Ali Bhai, holder of Indian Passport No: G1349572 hereby change my name to ALI BHAI JIVAJI ALI KAKA. 19-12-2012

SITUATION WANTED Systems Engineer (2-3 years experience in Infosys Ltd) Configuration Controller and Release Management, UNIX, Oracle, B-Tech Electronics & Comm.

Mob: 65015932. (C 4260) 24-12-2012 Accountant (5 years’ experience) B.Com, MBA Finance, Finalization of accounts, B/S, P/L, TB, Bank Transaction, Cash, Debtor, Creditors and Inventory Management, ERP Tally, Oracle. Seeking suitable position.

Contact:

97176224. (C 4255) 18-12-2012 TUITION AutoCAD tuition available by Highly Qualified Experienced Teacher, Learn professionally AutoCAD 2D&3D with Projects, Flexible Schedule, and individual tutorial. Contact: 99302850 / 22467301. (C 4251) 20-12-2012 MATRIMONIAL Proposals invited for a Keralite Christian Orthodox girl, 26 years, M-tech, doing doctorate in Netherlands.

Parents working in Kuwait, seeking alliance from parents of well qualified God fearing boys. Contact email: proposal1987@hotmail.com (C 4261) 24-12-2012

Orthodox parents invite proposals for their son 30/172 cm M.Com PGDBA, B & B in Kuwait and employed in a reputed MNC in Kuwait from parents of Orthodox/ Jacobite/ Marthoma B.E/MCA/MBA/M.Com/B.ED or other suitably qualified and employed in Kuwait. Contact Email: thekalloors@gmail.com (C 4253) 16-12-2012 55 years well placed Indian Muslim man seeks a lady for marriage 30 to 35 years age background and faith does not matter. Please email: asgar_kathawala@ymail.com 14-12-2012 32 years Roman Catholic boy 5’7” working as a private nurse invites proposals from God fearing and well educated girls. Email: shijopmathew@hotmail.com

THE PUBLIC AUTHORITY FOR CIVIL INFORMATION

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DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

Airlines PIA JAI THY JZR JZR QTR ETH QTR UAE ETD AFG QTR FDB MSR DHX THY JZR BAW KAC KAC FDB KAC UAE GFA ABY QTR FDB ETD KAC GFA BAB KAC JZR MSC IRC MEA MSR UAE FDB KNE KAC SVA KAC QTR JZR KAC KAC

Arrival Flights on Monday 24/12/2012 Flt Route 205 LAHORE 574 MUMBAI 772 ISTANBUL 267 BEIRUT 539 CAIRO 148 DOHA 620 ADDIS ABABA 6130 DOHA 853 DUBAI 305 ABU DHABI 416 JEDDAH 138 DOHA 67 DUBAI 612 CAIRO 170 BAHRAIN 770 ISTANBUL 503 LUXOR 157 LONDON 412 MANILA 206 ISLAMABAD 53 DUBAI 302 MUMBAI 855 DUBAI 223 BAHRAIN 121 SHARJAH 132 DOHA 55 DUBAI 301 ABU DHABI 352 COCHIN 213 BAHRAIN 436 BAHRAIN 344 CHENNAI 165 DUBAI 403 ASSIUT 6521 LAMERD 404 BEIRUT 610 CAIRO 871 DUBAI 57 DUBAI 472 JEDDAH 672 DUBAI 500 JEDDAH 546 ALEXANDRIA 140 DOHA 561 SOHAG 788 JEDDAH 284 DHAKA

Time 0:15 0:30 0:35 0:45 0:50 1:00 1:45 1:45 2:35 2:45 2:55 3:01 3:05 3:10 5:15 5:30 5:55 6:40 6:45 7:40 7:45 7:55 8:40 8:45 9:05 9:10 9:15 9:20 9:50 9:55 10:05 10:40 11:20 11:30 11:45 11:55 12:45 12:50 13:50 14:10 14:10 14:30 14:30 14:45 14:50 14:55 15:10

QTR OMA JZR KAC UAE ETD RJA GFA SVA JZR QTR ABY UAL KAC JZR RBG KAC BAB FDB MSC KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC OMA FDB JAI AXB MSR ABY QTR MSC ALK MEA GFA ETD UAE JZR JAI DHX FDB AIC TAR JZR GFA JZR UAL BBC

134 645 535 118 857 303 640 215 510 777 144 127 982 542 177 3553 786 438 63 405 618 742 104 674 774 647 61 572 389 618 129 146 401 229 402 221 307 859 135 576 372 59 975 327 239 217 185 981 43

DOHA MUSCAT CAIRO NEW YORK DUBAI ABU DHABI AMMAN BAHRAIN RIYADH JEDDAH DOHA SHARJAH WASHINGTON DC DULLES CAIRO DUBAI ALEXANDRIA JEDDAH BAHRAIN DUBAI SOHAG DOHA DAMMAM LONDON DUBAI RIYADH MUSCAT DUBAI MUMBAI MANGALORE ALEXANDRIA SHARJAH DOHA ALEXANDRIA COLOMBO BEIRUT BAHRAIN ABU DHABI DUBAI BAHRAIN COCHIN BAHRAIN DUBAI CHENNAI TUNIS AMMAN BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN DHAKA

15:30 15:40 16:25 16:35 16:40 16:50 16:55 17:15 17:20 17:45 17:50 17:55 17:55 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:30 18:40 18:45 19:15 19:20 19:30 19:35 19:35 19:50 19:55 20:00 20:10 20:20 20:25 20:35 20:45 20:50 20:55 21:20 21:30 21:35 21:40 21:50 21:55 22:00 22:00 22:30 22:45 22:45 22:50 23:05 23:25 23:45

Airlines AIC AFG UAL DLH JAI PIA KAC ETH THY QTR FDB UAE ETD AFG MSR QTR QTR JZR THY KAC JZR FDB BAW JZR KAC GFA KAC ABY UAE FDB ETD QTR GFA BAB KAC KAC JZR KAC MSC IRC MEA KAC MSR JZR UAE FDB KAC KNE

Departure Flights on Monday 24/12/2012 Flt Route 982 AHMEDABAD 406 KABUL 981 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 637 FRANKFURT 573 MUMBAI 206 PESHAWAR 283 DHAKA 621 ADDIS ABABA 773 ISTANBUL 6131 DOHA 68 DUBAI 854 DUBAI 306 ABU DHABI 416 JEDDAH 613 CAIRO 139 DOHA 149 DOHA 164 DUBAI 771 ISTANBUL 545 ALEXANDRIA 560 SOHAG 54 DUBAI 156 LONDON 534 CAIRO 787 JEDDAH 224 BAHRAIN 671 DUBAI 122 SHARJAH 856 DUBAI 56 DUBAI 302 ABU DHABI 133 DOHA 214 BAHRAIN 437 BAHRAIN 541 CAIRO 165 ROME 776 JEDDAH 103 LONDON 406 SOHAG 6522 LAMERD 405 BEIRUT 785 JEDDAH 611 CAIRO 176 DUBAI 872 DUBAI 58 DUBAI 673 DUBAI 473 JEDDAH

Time 0:05 1:00 1:10 1:20 1:30 1:35 2:25 2:45 2:55 3:15 3:45 3:50 4:00 4:00 4:10 4:50 6:05 6:55 7:35 7:45 8:15 8:25 8:45 9:15 9:25 9:30 9:35 9:45 9:55 10:00 10:05 10:30 10:40 10:50 11:30 11:50 12:15 12:20 12:30 12:35 12:55 13:00 13:45 13:50 14:15 14:30 15:05 15:10

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

SVA KAC QTR KAC KAC OMA JZR ETD JZR QTR UAE RJA GFA JZR SVA ABY JZR QTR RBG JZR UAL FDB BAB MSC FDB OMA KAC KAC JAI ABY MSR MSC DHX ALK MEA ETD GFA KAC FDB KAC UAE JAI DHX KAC QTR JZR TAR GFA KAC

501 617 141 773 741 646 238 304 538 135 858 641 216 184 511 128 266 145 3554 134 982 64 439 404 62 648 331 351 571 120 619 402 171 230 403 308 222 301 60 361 860 575 373 205 147 502 328 218 411

JEDDAH DOHA DOHA RIYADH DAMMAM MUSCAT AMMAN ABU DHABI CAIRO DOHA DUBAI AMMAN BAHRAIN DUBAI RIYADH SHARJAH BEIRUT DOHA ALEXANDRIA BAHRAIN BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN ASSIUT DUBAI MUSCAT TRIVANDRUM KOCHI MUMBAI SHARJAH ALEXANDRIA ALEXANDRIA BAHRAIN COLOMBO BEIRUT ABU DHABI BAHRAIN MUMBAI DUBAI MUSCAT DUBAI KOCHI BAHRAIN ISLAMABAD DOHA LUXOR DUBAI BAHRAIN BANGKOK

15:45 15:45 16:15 16:25 16:30 16:40 17:15 17:35 17:40 17:45 17:50 17:55 18:15 18:30 18:35 18:40 18:45 18:50 19:00 19:05 19:10 19:25 19:30 20:15 20:40 20:55 20:55 21:10 21:10 21:15 21:25 21:50 21:50 21:55 22:20 22:20 22:30 22:35 22:40 22:40 22:50 22:55 23:00 23:00 23:10 23:35 23:45 23:50 23:55

34

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

stars CROSSWORD 48

STAR TRACK Aries (March 21-April 19) A future social event connected with your career will help you make some important connections. Today may be the time you devote to shopping for some item you may think will help get you noticed at this important event. This would, perhaps, be some item you wear, or some change to your own body. Reputation and popularity are important to you and you will do your best to plan ahead and have everything just right. You just naturally attract admirers and attention. Success is available, no matter where you look. You may find yourself working, performing or enjoying this evening. Whatever you will be doing, it will be on a grand scale. A loved one needs special attention this evening. It is time to recharge the batteries in this relationship.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Although the day is full of demands, you may be pleasantly surprised at the amount of help you receive when you ask for help. You may be able to return the favor or just enjoy the company as you make progress with whatever you have to do at this time.

You encourage others through your own good attitude and you will discover that a variety of things get accomplished. You are attractive, adaptable and a bit unconventional. It is time to strengthen your family ties and stabilize relationships. Perhaps a new tradition for your family can begin to take hold now. Allow the young people to choose some great way to celebrate the New Year as well as your birth year. By day’s end, you will have refurbished yourself and your goals.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

ACROSS 1. Cleaning implement consisting of absorbent material fastened to a handle.

4. West Indian shrub or small tree having leathery saponaceous leaves and extremely hard wood.

12. A master's degree in education.

15. A religious belief of African origin involving witchcraft and sorcery.

16. Of or relating to or formed by trees.

17. A sweetened beverage of diluted fruit juice.

18. A bit with a bar mouthpiece that is designed to combine a curb and snaffle.

20. A long noosed rope used to catch animals.

21. A federal agency established to regulate the release of new foods and health-related products.

22. (Old Testament) The eldest son of Isaac who would have inherited the Covenant that God made with Abraham and that Abraham passed on to Isaac.

23. Similar or related in quality or character.

25. Remove the fangs from (canines, snakes, etc.).

27. Melon having yellowish rind and whitish flesh.

30. Relating to or characteristic of or occurring on land.

31. Type genus of the Cyatheaceae.

35. West Indian tree having racemes of fragrant white flowers and yielding a durable timber and resinous juice.

40. (Roman mythology) Goddess of abundance and fertility.

41. A city in northwestern Syria.

42. An assertion of a right (as to money or property).

45. Ions are accelerated along a linear path by voltage differences on electrodes along the path.

47. An organization of independent states to promote international peace and security.

49. A tricycle (usually propelled by pedalling).

51. The cardinal number that is the sum of one and one and one.

52. An inflammatory complication of leprosy that results in painful skin lesions on the arms and legs and face.

53. Wife of Balder.

55. A chronic disease of the nose characterized by a foul-smelling nasal discharge and atrophy of nasal structures.

58. An ancient city in northern Portugal.

60. Relating to or resembling or functioning like a trachea.

65. Of or in or relating to the nose.

69. A river in north central Switzerland that runs northeast into the Rhine.

70. Gunfire directed along the length rather than the breadth of a formation.

73. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

74. (Irish) Mother of the ancient Irish gods.

75. Covered with or as if with a glossy and usually brightly colored coating.

76. United States architect (born in China in 1917).

77. A workplace for the conduct of scientific research.

78. A river in northeastern Brazil that flows generally northward to the Atlantic Ocean.

79. A condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders.

DOWN 1. A motorbike that can be pedaled or driven by a low-powered gasoline engine.

2. Excessively fat.

3. Rice cooked in well-seasoned broth with

onions or celery and usually poultry or game or shellfish and sometimes tomatoes.

4. The cry made by sheep.

5. Dry brandy distilled in the Armagnac district of France.

6. A soft silvery metallic element of the alkali metal group.

7. Of or relating to or derived from or containing boron.

8. A particular environment or walk of life.

9. Relating to or characteristic of or occurring on the sea or ships.

10. Chinese evergreen conifer discovered in 1955.

11. Leaf or strip from a leaf of the talipot palm used in India for writing paper.

12. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad.

13. Tropical starchy tuberous root.

14. Made of fir or pine.

19. A member of a North American people formerly living in the Colorado river valley in Arizona.

24. Nocturnal mouselike mammal with forelimbs modified to form membranous wings and anatomical adaptations for echolocation by which they navigate.

26. Tag the base runner to get him out.

28. A curved oriental saber.

29. Having undesirable or negative qualities.

32. A large sandwich made of a long crusty roll split lengthwise and filled with meats and cheese (and tomato and onion and lettuce and condiments).

33. An inferior imitator of some distinguished writer or artist of musician.

34. Remote city of Kazakhstan that (ostensibly for security reasons) was made the capital in 1998.

36. Not contained in or deriving from the essential nature of something.

37. United States tennis player (born in Czechoslovakia) who won several singles championships.

38. (British) Your grandmother.

39. The branch of computer science that deal with writing computer programs that can solve problems creatively.

43. A Bantu language spoken in southern Zaire.

44. A Japanese cheer of enthusiasm or triumph.

46. Being ten more than one hundred ninety.

48. In 1649 the place was captured by Oliver Cromwell, who massacred the Catholic inhabitants.

50. An electrical device that sends or receives radio or television signals.

54. A soft gray ductile metallic element used in alloys.

56. A radioactive element of the actinide series.

57. The short weak cry of a young bird.

59. A unit of dry measure used in Egypt.

61. Type genus of the Ranidae.

62. An Arabic speaking person who lives in Arabia or North Africa.

63. (old-fashioned) At or from or to a great distance.

64. Trace the shape of.

66. Plant with an elongated head of broad stalked leaves resembling celery.

67. In bed.

68. Set down according to a plan.

71. A unit of length of thread or yarn.

72. American prizefighter who won the world heavyweight championship three times (born in 1942).

If you are planning a get-together with family members, why not plan to have them bring their own special recipe to share? A covered dish dinner is fun for most any time when people just want to get together and enjoy each other’s company. You have private goals to be realized now as your domestic life becomes more important to you. This will necessitate that you gain better control of your financial security and earning power. Self-improvement and the influence of those around you can go along educational, religious, philosophical or cultural lines. You may talk a relative into taking a class with you this winter session. You plan and enjoy this family gathering. A growing interest in religion could make up part of this day.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) It is ideas that count for you and you have plenty of good ones. The new and the unusual are the things that instinctively appeal to you at this time. A convention in your city may display the new cellphone technology or gaming technology or many other new gadgets that are fascinating and attention grabbing. You enjoy the transition that comes at this time of year. There are plans to sit down with your family this evening and talk about budgeting and how to succeed next year. There are garage sales, cookie sales, side jobs and all sorts of things that you can expect will surface in conversations this evening. Encourage thriftiness and the idea of self-esteem and self-determination.

Schedule in some planned meetings to keep everyone motivated.

Leo (July 23-August 22) A sense of emotional coolness or detachment at a personal level actually helps you to complete chores and accomplish professional duties. You keep busy much of today by running errands and making deliveries. All of this however, should go rather smoothly. Marketing studies may come to your attention this afternoon. There are possibilities for some good business changes this coming year. High tech gambles could pay off big when it comes to a business offer today. Take time to research—find the truth.

Fairness with and responsibilities to the other people in your life are emphasized. If you want to invite people to your place for the New Year’s party—now is a good time to plan the decorations and finalize all the details.

Virgo (August 23-September 22) A temporary obstacle may appear because of an older person in your life today. Patience will win out—he or she just needs to talk. You may be cleaning up after a week of entertaining company. You have needs and you sense the needs of others: fitting the two together makes your life successful. The secret is knowing when and how to express yourself and encourage others to do the same. When planning future engagements, ask those involved what they would like. Your love relationship is full of happy times—have your camera ready for pictures that will bring some fond memories later.

Good vibrations encourage good verbal expressions with clear and kind information. You become the master of your world because of your patience and discipline.

Word Search

Libra (September 23-October 22) You may find this morning a confusing time—if you just hold on awhile you will find the early afternoon will bring many positive changes. Family and security are things that rattle your chain more than ever. These are areas where you make new beginnings and bold moves. Changes that take place now need the approval and consideration of all involved. If you live by yourself, then you can paint a room the color you want to paint it, etc. There are plans in the works for some upcoming parties and gettogethers with friends. You will not have to do anything but attend and perhaps bring a gift for the host. The evening brings with it a time of camaraderie, relaxation and entertainment.

This is a good time to get to know new people.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) It is pleasant to surround yourself with friends and young people and to have a good time. You and your sweetheart may spend much of the afternoon talking about the goals and dreams you had in mind for this time in your life. If you have reached those goals, it is time to celebrate and then make new goals. If you have not met your goals, it is time to adjust or change your focus. You have a brand new year ahead of you to see the results of your actions and plans of the present. Old friends from out-of-town that are in the city today may invite you to a spur-of-the-moment get-together this afternoon. Everyone gets a fair treatment from you and because of your considerate attitude— others are thoughtful and understanding. You attract the positive.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) You will more than likely spend this evening at home. It has been a very busy and stressful time and you are logical and careful to tend to your own home and family. Errands, cleaning and preparing for the workweek ahead can be shared with a loved one. You were not the only one to make changes in your environment and you are not the only one to bring your environment back to a healthy, comfortable place of relaxation. You may talk with your family about plans to travel and set family goals for next year, but only after your home environment is back in a comfortable condition. Helping others reach their goals is fun and will encourage participation—after the cleaning is over, prepare to listen—listening may be all that is needed.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19) You may find yourself serving to guide someone younger than you in matters of importance today. The best lesson is through example. Emotional seriousness, a sober orientation and a practical awareness of the nature of time are keynotes to your feelings. There is a tendency to be too strict with yourself and to insist that whatever does not contribute to security and other long-term goals is trivial. Ambition is intensified— your plans are taking shape. Everything conspires to value and to bring out your unique and unusual qualities. Step back occasionally and bring some balance into your day— laugh! Someone close to you has your best interests at heart and is supportive of your eccentricities. Help a kid—plan to volunteer in a classroom next year.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) You will meet with a young friend that is from a religious or a social organization. Your guidance or the ability you have to just listen is a very important factor in this person’s future choices. You are talented and loving and your intuition proves accurate. You thrive on self-improvement and may find ways to set future goals for changing the things you are not happy about in your own life. The ability to recognize and make changes in your life is what attracts others to you. Others want your ability to gain insight.

Take a little time now to contemplate the fun times of the past and create the new pictures you want in your life for the future. While sorting through old magazines or newspapers, find pictures to use for focusing or meditation.

Pisces (February 19-March 20) You may be getting on the scales and choosing this day for fasting—at least until evening. It would be better to drink lots of water today and worry about a better nutritional diet tomorrow. Going without nourishment could create a grouchy person! Your plans for the future take real form now. You are mentally equipped to earn a great income from your creative talents. This can be a most successful endeavor when you have an interested partner that can provide the encouragement, drive and energy you may lack.

There is a chance to understand those around you and to have a special time with someone you love. Good feelings, support and harmony make this a happy time. A romantically heated evening is possible, especially if you cook.

Yesterday’s Solution

Yesterday’s Solution

Daily SuDoku

Yesterday’s Solution

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

i n f o r m at i o n For labor-related inquiries and complaints: Call MSAL hotline 128 GOVERNORATE Sabah Hospital

24812000

Amiri Hospital

22450005

Maternity Hospital

24843100

Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital

25312700

Chest Hospital

24849400

Farwaniya Hospital

24892010

Adan Hospital

23940620

Ibn Sina Hospital

24840300

Al-Razi Hospital

24846000

Physiotherapy Hospital

24874330/9

Kaizen center

25716707

Rawda

22517733

Adaliya

22517144

Khaldiya

24848075

Kaifan

24849807

Shamiya

24848913

Shuwaikh

24814507

Abdullah Salem

22549134

Nuzha

22526804

Industrial Shuwaikh

24814764

Qadsiya

22515088

Dasmah

22532265

Bneid Al-Gar

22531908

Shaab

22518752

Qibla

22459381

Ayoun Al-Qibla

22451082

Mirqab

22456536

Sharq

22465401

Salmiya

25746401

Jabriya

25316254

Maidan Hawally

PHARMACY

ADDRESS

Ahmadi

Sama Safwan Abu Halaifa Danat Al-Sultan

Fahaeel Makka St Abu Halaifa-Coastal Rd Mahboula Block 1, Coastal Rd

23915883 23715414 23726558

Jahra

Modern Jahra Madina Munawara

Jahra-Block 3 Lot 1 Jahra-Block 92

24575518 24566622

Capital

Ahlam Khaldiya Coop

Fahad Al-Salem St Khaldiya Coop

22436184 24833967

Farwaniya

New Shifa Ferdous Coop Modern Safwan

Farwaniya Block 40 Ferdous Coop Old Kheitan Block 11

24734000 24881201 24726638

Tariq Hana Ikhlas Hawally & Rawdha Ghadeer Kindy Ibn Al-Nafis Mishrif Coop Salwa Coop

Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Salmiya-Amman St Hawally-Beirut St Hawally & Rawdha Coop Jabriya-Block 1A Jabriya-Block 3B Salmiya-Hamad Mubarak St Mishrif Coop Salwa Coop

25726265 25647075 22625999 22564549 25340559 25326554 25721264 25380581 25628241

Hawally

ST TATE T OF KUW K WAIT A

Te el.: 161

DIRECTORA ATE T GENE GENERAL OF CIVIL AV VIA ATION T METEOROLOGICAL DEP PA ARTMENT DA AY: Y Sunday

23/12/2012

BY Y DA AY:

Cool with light to moderate north westerly to northerly wind, with speed of 12 - 35 km/h and some scattered clouds will appear

BY Y NIGHT:

Partly cloudy with light to moderate northerly to north westerly wind, with speed of 10 - 32 km/h

No Current Warnings arnin a

WARNING A

14 °C

KUW WA AIT AIRPOR RT

20 °C

12 °C

NUW WA AISEEB

21 °C

14 °C

WAFRA A

20 °C

12 °C

SALMI

19 °C

09 °C

ABDAL LY

21 °C

09 °C

JAL ALIY YA AH

20 °C

09 °C

25623444

FAILAKA A

19 °C

13 °C

Bayan

25388462

AHMADI POR RT

19 °C

16 °C

Mishref

25381200

UMM AL-MARADEM

20 °C

18 °C

W Hawally

22630786

WARBA A A - BUBY YA AN

20 °C

11 °C

Sabah

24810221

Jahra

24770319

New Jahra

24575755

West Jahra

24772608

South Jahra

24775066

North Jahra

24775992

Thursday

North Jleeb

24311795

ST TATION T

SFC. CHART

23/12/2012 0000 UTC

4 DA AY YS FORECAST Temperatures DA AY

DA AT TE

WEA AT THER

MAX.

MIN.

Wind Direction

Wind Speed

Monday

24/12

cool + high clouds

22 °C

13 °C

NW-VRB

06 - 28 km/h

Tuesday

25/12

Weednesday

26/12

partly cloudy to cloudy + Rain

22 °C

15 °C

SE-E

08 - 30 km/h

unstable

20 °C

12 °C

NW

20 - 45 km/h

27/12

sunny + chance for dust

19 °C

11 °C

NW

20 - 40 km/h

PRA RA AYER Y TIMES

RECORDED YESTERDA AY AT KUW WA AIT AIRPORT

Fajr

05:14

MAX. Temp.

20 °C

24884079

Sunrise

06:39

MIN. Temp.

13 °C

24892674

Zuhr

11:47

MAX. RH

91 %

Asr

14:37

MIN. RH

32 %

Omariya

24719048

Sunset

16:55

MAX. Wind

N 32 km/h

N Khaitan

24710044

Isha

18:17

TOT TA AL L RAIINF FALL A L IN 24 HR.

4.13 mm

Fintas

23900322

All times are local time unless otherwise stated.

V1.00

23/12/12 03:14 UTC

T1.06

PRIVATE CLINICS Paediatricians

Plastic Surgeons Dr. Mohammad Al-Khalaf

22547272

Dr. Khaled Hamadi

Dr. Abdal-Redha Lari

22617700

Dr. Abd Al-Aziz Al-Rashed

Dr. Abdel Quttainah

25625030/60

Family Doctor Dr Divya Damodar

23729596/23729581

Psychiatrists Dr. Esam Al-Ansari

22635047

Dr Eisa M. Al-Balhan

22613623/0

Gynaecologists & Obstetricians DrAdrian arbe

23729596/23729581

Dr. Verginia s.Marin

2572-6666 ext 8321

Endocrinologist

25665898 25340300

Dr. Zahra Qabazard

25710444

Dr. Sohail Qamar

22621099

Dr. Snaa Maaroof

25713514

Dr. Pradip Gujare

23713100

Dr. Zacharias Mathew

24334282

(1) Ear, Nose and Throat (2) Plastic Surgeon Dr. Abdul Mohsin Jafar, FRCS (Canada)

25655535

Dentists

Dr. Fozeya Ali Al-Qatan

22655539

Dr. Majeda Khalefa Aliytami

25343406

Dr. Shamah Al-Matar

22641071/2

Dr. Ahmad Al-Khooly

25739272

Dr. Anesah Al-Rasheed

22562226

22618787

Dr. Abidallah Al-Amer

22561444

Dr. Faysal Al-Fozan

22619557

Dr. Abdallateef Al-Katrash

22525888

Dr. Abidallah Al-Duweisan

25653755

Dr. Bader Al-Ansari

25620111

Dr. Salem soso General Surgeons Dr. Amer Zawaz Al-Amer

22610044

Dr. Mohammad Yousef Basher

25327148

Internists, Chest & Heart Dr. Adnan Ebil Dr. Mousa Khadada Dr. Latefa Al-Duweisan

22666300 25728004

Dr. Nadem Al-Ghabra

25355515

Dr. Mobarak Aldoub

24726446

Dr Nasser Behbehani

25654300/3

info@soorcenter.com www.soorcenter.com

3729596/3729581

Neurologists

22639939

Dr. Abd Al-Naser Al-Othman

Dr. Sohal Najem Al-Shemeri

25633324

Dr. Jasem Mola Hassan

25345875

Gastrologists Dr. Sami Aman

22636464

Dr. Mohammad Al-Shamaly

25322030

Dr. Foad Abidallah Al-Ali

22633135

Kaizen center 25716707

25339330

Dr. Ahmad Al-Ansari 25658888 Dr. Kamal Al-Shomr 25329924 Physiotherapists & VD Dr. Deyaa Shehab

25722291

Dr. Musaed Faraj Khamees

22666288

Rheumatologists: Dr. Adel Al-Awadi

Dr Anil Thomas

Soor Center Tel: 2290-1677 Fax: 2290 1688

Al-Shuwaikh

24810598

Al-Nuzha

22545171

Sabhan

24742838

Al-Helaly

22434853

Al-Faiha

22545051

Al-Farwaniya

24711433

Al-Sulaibikhat

24316983

Al-Fahaheel

23927002

Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh

24316983

Ahmadi

23980088

Al-Mangaf

23711183

Al-Shuaiba

23262845

Al-Jahra

25610011

Al-Salmiya

25616368

Expected Weeather for the Next 24 Hours

21 °C

Psychologists /Psychotherapists

22545171

INTERNATIONAL CALLS

07:00

Issue Time

KUW WA AIT CITY

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36

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

li fe s ty le G O S S I P

Hunt to Receive Palm Springs Film Festival Spotlight Award

elen Hunt will receive the Spotlight Award at the upcoming Palm Springs International Film Festival. Hunt, an Oscar-winner for “As Good As It Gets,” is garnering strong reviews for her turn in “The Sessions” as a therapist helping a man in an iron lung lose his virginity. Many awards watchers are predicting that she has a good chance at earning her second Academy Award nomination for her work. “Few can claim the artistic distinctions of Helen Hunt,” Film Festival Chairman Harold Matzner said in a statement. “A consummate actress, director, producer and screenwriter, Hunt’s talents are myriad.” The awards gala will take place on Saturday, Jan. 5 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The Festival runs from Jan 3 to Jan 14. Past recipients of the Spotlight Award include Amy Adams and Jessica Chastain. In addition to “The Sessions,” Hunt won Emmys for her work on NBC’s “Mad About You” and appeared in the hit films “What Women Want” and “Castaway.” Hunt, an Oscar-winner for “As Good As It Gets,” is garnering strong reviews for her turn in “The Sessions” as a therapist helping a man in an iron lung lose his virginity. Many awards watchers are predicting that she has a good chance at earning her second Academy Award nomination for her work. “Few can claim the artistic distinctions of Helen Hunt,” Film Festival Chairman Harold Matzner said in a statement. “A consummate actress, director, producer and screenwriter, Hunt’s talents are myriad.” The awards gala will take place on Saturday, Jan 5 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. The Festival runs from Jan 3 to Jan 14. Past recip-

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Wilson to host springtime MTV Movie Awards itch Perfect” star and “Bridesmaids” scene-stealer Rebel Wilson is taking center stage. MTV tapped the Australian actress to host its annual movie awards, set for April 14 in Culver City, Calif. The network made the announcement late Thursday during the finale of its popular “Jersey Shore” series. Wilson is an actress and writer who rose to fame with her role as Kristin Wiig’s nosy

“P

roommate in “Bridesmaids.” Wilson’s other credits include “Bachelorette” and “What to Expect When You’re Expecting.” The MTV Movie Awards have traditionally been held in June, but as the summer movie season has edged into May, the network scheduled its show earlier to give film fans a peek at the season’s blockbusters. The MTV Movie Awards has often featured exclusive film previews.

Nicole Scherzinger

ients of the Spotlight Award include Amy Adams and Jessica Chastain. In addition to “The Sessions,” Hunt won Emmys for her work on NBC’s “Mad About You” and appeared in the hit films “What Women Want” and “Castaway.”

eith Richards always buys presents for his Rolling Stones bandmates. The legendary guitarist never forgets his bandmates Charlie Watts, Ronnie Wood and Sir Mick Jagger - during the festive period, and makes sure he gets an appropriate gift for each of them. He said: “Sometimes they don’t actually arrive on Christmas, sometimes before, and sometimes afterward. But we always exchange something. It’s normally something you see of you pick up and you think, ‘Oh Charlie’ll love that.

But it may not be exactly at Christmas as we’re not that punctual.”

One of the most memorable presents Keith, 68, can remember getting his drummer is a toy of legendary fictional fighter pilot Biggles, which he has kept to this day. He explained: “Charlie has given me some incredible things over the years, but they’re silly things, like in-jokes and stuff. I can’t remember the best one I got, but I remember I once found a Biggles puppet, with a parachute, beautiful 20s job with all the gear on.

And Charlie and I have always had a thing about Biggles, so I sent him that. It’s still dangling from his ceiling somewhere.”

K

good with gifts

Richards

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Katona loves Mel C excited for wrapping Christmas presents he mother-of-four likes to spend hours laboring over the gift-wrapping process and had her gifts for four-year-old Max and five-year-old Heidi picked out early this year, but says she will leaving Molly, 11, and nine-year-old Lilly-Sue’s presents to the last minute because they will be spending the festive season with their father Brian McFadden. Kerry said: “I love Christmas. I love wrapping presents.

It looks like a ball of mess though. I’ve just got Max and Heidi all sorted. Molly and Lilly, this year I was really bad though. “Don’t judge me, I’m a single mother, four kids to buy for. Molly and Lilly are going to Ireland this year, that’s where they’ve been for the last two years, and they’re coming back just after the New Year. So I’m thinking, I’ve got the list at home, I’m gonna get their presents and save them. It makes sense.” The feisty star says the family enjoy a cosy Christmas day of the sofa, watching quiz show ‘Countdown’ and getting in the festive mood with heart-warming classic films. Kerry revealed: “Christmas I just stay at home with the kids, waiting for ‘Countdown’. My favourite Christmas film has got to be ‘Gone with the Wind’.

Or ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ with Jimmy Stewart.”

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ngelina Jolie and Brad Pitt don’t like to spend Christmas in one place. The Hollywood couple raise six children together, Maddox, 11, Pax, nine, Zahara, seven, Shiloh, six, and four-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne, and when it comes to the festive holidays, they like to travel around the world instead of buying them expensive gifts. She said: “I love to travel in the holidays, because I feel like I’d rather give the kids the gift of a new country than a box of presents. But I still give them some presents!” The family are known for their globe-trotting

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adventures but Angelina says she and Brad have a pact that only one of them will be away from the children at one time so they fit their work schedules around that. She added: “I have a great partner in Brad and before we had all of our children, we agreed that in order to have a big family, we would never work at the same time. “When he is shooting a film, I am not filming and I’m home and I’m just focusing on the kids and on occasion I take trips and I do my UN work. Then when I’m working, he does the same, so I don’t do all of these things all of the time.”

Khloe hates Christmas shopping T

he ‘Keeping Up With The Kardashians’ star admitted she often worries she will forget a member of her large family when she is buying presents. She said: “I dread Christmas shopping - I go nuts making sure I don’t forget anyone, it can get crazy.” Khloe also revealed her husband Lamar Odom helps her get into the festive spirit and one of their favourite Christmas rituals is putting up their decorations. She explained: “Before Lamar, I never had a tree. I helped with my mom’s. Now we decorate our house together. He loves it. And he always does the top of the tree.” Khloe has previously spoken of how much she enjoys Christmas because it is such a huge family occasion.

She said: “Every Christmas, we’re always together. Stepbrothers, sisters, everything. All 10 kids and then everyone’s extended girlfriend, boyfriend, this, that...” And this year, the ‘X Factor’ host and her spouse had to be digitallyadded into her family’s famous Christmas card because they were so busy on the day of the festive photoshoot.

She said: “We pretend that we’re always together. The powers of cameras and Photoshop.”

traditional Christmas

el C is planning a “really traditional” Christmas Day and is pleased she will be surrounded by loved ones in London. Mel C is “so excited” about having her second Christmas in London. The 38year-old singer - who earlier this year split from her three-year-old daughter Scarlet’s father, Thomas Starr, after 10 years with him - cannot wait to have a “really traditional” experience over the festive period with her family. When asked what her plans are for Christmas, she replied: “I’m so excited. I’m having my second London Christmas and we’re going to stay at home and have family over for dinner. A really traditional Christmas is on the cards.” Mel admits she won’t be taking any notice of speculation the world could end a few days before Christmas Day, although she admits people in a small village in France might have the “last laugh” if they are the only survivors.

She added: “How many times have they said that’s going to happen?” “I’m not going to be taking any precautions. But you never know, maybe they’ll have the last laugh while I’ll be totally unprepared.”

travels at Christmas

he ‘Poison’ hitmaker thinks a woolly sweater bearing a festive motif is the perfect garment to get people in the mood for the party season, and she was delighted to receive one as a gift from boyfriend Lewis Hamilton last year. Giving her advice to boyfriends eager to treat their partners over the festive season, she said: “Buy a motif sweater. My boyfriend Lewis got me one with a reindeer and snowflakes on last year.” However, this year Nicole won’t need her Christmas jumper as once her commitments as a judge on ‘The X Factor’ end, she is returning home to Hawaii for the festive season. She added: “It won’t work this year though as I’ll be celebrating in Hawaii, where I grew up. There, you wear a surfer bikini and Christmassy board shorts.”

Jolie and Pitt

loves Christmas jumpers

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Humes plans sentimental gift arvin Humes is going to get wife Rochelle a sentimental gift this Christmas. While the JLS star knows his spouse would love yet another expensive handbag or pair of diamond earrings, he is planning a thoughtful and romantic gift for The Saturdays singer, with whom he is expecting his first child. Marvin said: “All girls love diamonds and handbags, but obviously my wife is fortunate that she...” His band mate J.B. Gill interrupted: “She’s got her diamonds, now she wants more!” Marvin finished: “But you do have to think outside the box and get more sentimental presents - I can’t just go out and buy a handbag.” Meanwhile, J.B. claims Christmas is about spending time with his family and he doesn’t care how much his presents cost, but he would only be happy if he was given expensive pants and socks. He mused: “I’m definitely getting older because I’m not as fussed on the present front.

I’d much prefer to be around the people I love... I prefer the simple stuff such as nice boxers and socks - Armani and Calvin Klein ones.” Ortise Williams chimed in: “Not everyone’s going to buy you boxers, man!

I need white T-shirts, they go with everything.” —Agencies

M

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

lifestyle T R A V E L

Sri Lanka

A floating paradise

s Oman air took a Kuwaiti media delegation for a farm trip to Sri Lanka recently, the airline showcased its newlook first class and business class, leaving everyone on board impressed with the inflight facilities and stunned by the unfathomable beauty of the island.

Sri Lanka presents a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural heritage and a unique holiday getaway within a compact land area surrounded by the beautiful Indian Ocean.

to their mouthwatering cuisine, magnificent art, captivating dances, toe-tapping music and dazzling parades and festivals. You can immerse yourself in the lively surroundings as you explore the characteristic and happy-golucky wonderland that is Sri Lanka.

Also, Sri Lanka has wonderful foods. It is a melting pot of diverse cultures that contribute to an immense array of gastronomic delights from delicious lamprais wrapped up in the aromatic banana leaf to succulent Jaffna crab curry, crispy egg-hoppers and mouth watering biryani. Sri Lankan cuisine is brimming with European, Middle Eastern and Asian influ-

Fifteen national parks showcasing an abundance of wildlife, nearly 500,000 acres of lush tea estates, 250 acres of botanical gardens, 350 different waterfalls and over 1,330 kilometers of coastline. Much of it boasts of palm fringed sandy beaches with lots of sun, sand and sea that entertain the visitor.

Sri Lanka is rich in culture and heritage that goes back more than 2,000 years. In the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, there are many references that testify to the island’s natural beauty and wealth.

Islamic folklore maintains that Adam and

ences. The typical Sri Lankan diet consists of brown rice complemented by vegetable dishes, lentils, meat and fish curries, spices etc and is most often than not cooked in coconut milk, which lends a rich creamy flavor to the appetizing curries and gravies.

The merging of south Indian influences with Sri Lankan folk dancing gave rise to unique styles of dance that Sri Lanka is renowned for. Kandyan, low country and sabaragamuwa each varying in style, costume and type of drums used. Kandiyan dance is the principal form of dance in Sri Lanka.

By Jins Jose

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Eve were offered refuge on the island as solace for their expulsion from the Garden of Eden.

Asian poets note that Sri Lanka has more recently been called India’s Fallen Tear. Sri Lankans cherish the diversity of their land and are proud of the rich tapestry of cultural practice, beliefs and the traditional way of the life

that makes way for a vibrant environment. Sri Lanka provides several types of tourism, mainly nature and wild life, sports tourism, adventure holidays, beach tourism, wellness and spa, religious tours, ecotourism and agro holidays. There are a lot of special places for tourists to visit. Among these are Kandy,

Nuwara Eliya, Pinnawela, Jaffna, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kitulgala,Galle, Bentota etc.

Owing to its multicultural heritage, the land of Sri Lanka is enriched with a vibrant and diverse way of life. The friendly people of Sri Lanka are more than happy to introduce you

Randholee luxury resort and spa

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andholee luxury resort and spa transport you an era when queens traveled by golden palanquin. Breakfast while the valley sleeps snuggled in mist and the sun kissed peaks turn to gold. Enjoy the secluded honeymoon getaway in the romantic ambiance of this resplendent hotel in the central hill country of Sri Lanka. Climb the majestic mountains of Kandy or walk through the arcane nature trails. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Royal Botanical Gardens, ancient Lankatillake and Gadakadeniya temples and the fascinating sites of Kandy.

Accommodation Step in to an extraordinary world fashioned for uninterrupted, luxurious peace. Nestled in the heart of Mount Pleasant and surrounded by its beauty, the views offered from our rooms are nothing short of breathtaking. The earthy tones of the rooms, the Kandyan paintings and the rich mahogany furniture add to this enchanting atmosphere. The palatial beds are fitted with soft cotton sheets that are cool and crisp to the touch. Our spacious bath rooms include a large bathtub and a commodious counter for your comfort. Equipped with amenities such as cable television, an international phone line and tea coffee making facilities, the rooms combine the opulence of a palace with the comforts of home.

Air- conditioning, tea and coffee making facili-

ties, free of charge internet and WI-FI facilities, 24 hrs in-room dining, IDD activated telephone, a private balcony in 18 rooms with an amazing view, baby cot available ( on request ), hair-dryer, iron and board available on request.

Unique dining experience Dining with the nature, have a picnic in a mystical Kandyan forest. Surround yourself with the beautiful colors of nature- the greens and browns of the trees and shrubs, the blues and whites of the skies and clouds and the yellows and reds of the various birds and other woodland creatures that can be found in the forest. Pick and isolated location to spread your blanket and enjoy a day of good food, relaxation and nature. Experience the peace and tranquility amidst the Kandy wood.

Dining pool-side Watch the reflection of the stars shimmer on the water as you dine beside the pool. Titillate the most discerning palate with a candle-lit dinner as the sun sets over the distant hills. Have dessert as the sky darkens and the lights of the homes in the village below turn on one by one. Dining beside the pool on top of Mount Pleasant and enjoying the tree house dining experience is a romantic experience that will become a treasured memory.

Facilities infinity pool and endless stretch of

water merges into the sky to make you feel as though you are swimming in the clouds. Immerse yourself in the refreshing water and spend a nice, relaxing day in the pool. When mouth-watering aromas waft from the nearby dining area, order refreshments and enjoy them beside the pool. The elegant pool-side is filled with chaise lounges and fresh towels for your comfort.

Say ‘I do’ at Randholee luxury resort and spa Weddings exchange your wedding vows as the sun sets behind the misty mountains of Kandy.

Have your first dance as a newly- wed couple

beneath the divine clouds. Feel the aura of Mother Nature as you step in matrimony under the vast blue sky. Randholee luxury resort and spa offers an elegant setting for a royal wedding experience.

Conferences and workshop The remarkable conference centre with a resplendent view. Randholee luxury resort and spa is a wonderful location for modest conferences and corporate events. The exceptional location and the brilliant Kandy climate contribute to the unique environment in which to set your conference. We offer outstanding services and extensive facilities to make your conference successful and memorable.

We are able to accommodate approximately 50 people for various functions and the seating and hall arrangements can be altered to your specification. The location, service and facilities we offer make our conference centre one of the finest venues available in Kandy.

Spa and sports complex Our newest addition is the spa and sports complex which gives the value added services to the inhouse guests. The well equipped gym gives you the utmost satisfaction. The Badminton and the squash courts are par with the International standards. The “Ariyanaa” spa replenishes your body and gives you the royal treatments.

38

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LIFESTYLE F e a t u r e s

Reggae’s Buju Banton awaits ruling on mistrial Florida juror who voted to convict Jamaican reggae singer Buju Banton on drug charges has denied improperly researching the case during trial, despite a weekly newspaper’s report that quoted her as saying that she did. Banton is serving a 10-year prison sentence for his convictions on cocaine conspiracy and trafficking charges stemming from a 2009 arrest.

The Grammy winner faces an additional five years for his conviction on a related gun possession charge, but his resentencing hearing was postponed to investigate the report of juror misconduct.

Banton’s attorneys have filed a motion in Tampa federal court seeking a new trial. If granted, it would be the second mistrial for Banton, whose first trial in 2010 ended with jurors deadlocked. He was convicted in 2011 in his second trial. US District Judge James Moody reserved judgment Thursday on the defense motion. Jurors were told during the trial not to do any independent Buju Banton research into the case. Terri Wright, a juror from Banton’s 2011 trial, was quoted in a Miami New Times report as saying that she researched parts of the case even though the judge had ordered jurors not to.

“I would get in the car, just write my notes down so I could remember, and I would come home and do the research,” Wright was quoted as saying. New Times reporter Chris Sweeney testified Thursday that he interviewed several jurors. Sweeney also provided the court with a recording of his interview with Wright.

Wright testified that she sent Sweeney a text message after seeing his story, saying there had been “a huge misunderstanding with (Sweeney’s) questions.” Wright’s text message also read, “I did not violate the judge’s instructions with this case. I did my research AFTER the case was over and the verdict was given, NOT during the case. . I trusted you and now feel totally betrayed.”

Wright testified that she only researched Banton’s music and the federal Pinkerton rule, which involves liability among conspirators for the actions of other conspirators. There was no proof that Banton possessed a gun or was aware that a codefendant did, but because of the Pinkerton rule, Banton was convicted of a weapons offense. Moody tossed the gun charge, but an appeals court reversed that decision. —AP

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Filipino actress Kris Aquino, right, the sister of Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, waves beside son James Jr, as they ride a float during the 38th Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) Parade of Stars in Manila, Philippines, yesterday. Theaters nationwide will only show locally produced films during the festival which runs from Dec 25 to Jan 8.—AP

Predawn calls and hard beds: S Korea’s spiritual tourism s a paying guest at Mihwangsa, there’s no need to book a morning wake-up call. It’s provided well before sunrise, at 4:00 am to be precise-and it isn’t optional.

Instead of a phone call-none of the rooms have phones-guests are roused by a monk walking past their rooms, knocking on a wooden block to call them for a round of pre-breakfast chanting and meditation. The dozen guests who make their sleepy way to the temple’s main hall-clad in identical grey loose-fitting outfits-are all taking part in

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opportunity and began opening its temples to short-term paying guests.”There were shared voices within Buddhism that we needed to interact with the outside world by opening ourselves to the public,” said Kumgang, the head monk of Mihwangsa.

The rates are relatively cheap, ranging from 50,000-80,000 won ($45-$75) a night, and the amenities are spartan compared to any mainstream hotel. Guests are obliged to sleep on thin cotton mattresses on a hardwood floor, eat vegetarian food and partici-

This handout photo taken on November 24, 2006 shows participants and monks taking meditating sessions during a temple stay at a yard of Mihwangsa temple in Haenam, 350 kms south of Seoul. —AFP Mihwangsa’s Templestay programme.

Ranging from middle school students to housewives in their late 30s, including Koreans and foreigners, they were attracted by what has become a thriving mini-tourist industry in temples across South Korea. “I wanted to be isolated in the mountains while experiencing the traditional life,” said Helena Ranneberg, a Danish web consultant. Mihwangsa temple is undoubtedly isolated, located halfway up a mountain in coastal Haenam county around 320 kilometers (200 miles) southwest of Seoul.

The Templestay program has its unlikely origins in the 2002 football World Cup which was co-hosted by South Korea and Japan.

When the government made a general appeal for help in overcoming a shortage of hotel accommodation, the Jogye Order, the country’s largest Buddhism sect, saw an

pate in classes on Buddhism, morning meditation and evening chanting of scriptures-all led by monks. “The most difficult part for me was to sit and lie on the wooden floor,” confessed Ranneberg. “I just couldn’t sleep at night.”

In their free time, they can hike in the surrounding area, read books, drink tea and participate in much of the temple’s daily life.

Drinking and smoking are forbidden and mobile phone use actively discouraged.

“Other than ceremonies, I can relax, drink tea with the monks and have discussions on life.... It’s all I could wish for,” said Park SeungKyung, a housewife from Gwangju who had booked in for three days.

‘Really was something different’ None of the monks at Mihwangsa speak English, but a lay Buddhist living in the tem-

ple helps interpret for foreign guests. For Ranneberg, the language barrier was not an issue. “Before dawn, I had time on my own in complete darkness, just sitting in front of the traditional architecture... And that really was something different, something I would never be able to experience anywhere else,” she said.

Since the program began a decade ago, the number of participating temples has risen from 33 to 109 and close to two million people have stayed in them. In 2011, the number of Templestay guests was 212,437, of which around 12 percent were foreigners.

Since 2004 the government has provided subsidies totaling around $100 million to the program which it sees as a force for promoting traditional Korean culture. But not everybody is happy.

Last year, the Korean Association of Church Communication issued a statement arguing that there was “room for conflict” in the government subsidizing a program associated with one particular religion.

“There clearly is a problem with financially supporting missionary events by a specific religion,” it said. The official Templestay website stresses that the program is mainly aimed at providing a cultural experience, rather than an effort to promote religious belief. Tensions between Buddhism and the Christian Church have deep roots in South Korea.

Historically the dominant religion, Buddhism has been eclipsed by Christianity which grew at an incredible pace in the 20th century, especially after the 1950-53 Korean War. Thirty percent of the population describe themselves as Christian, making South Korea one of the most Christian countries in Asia, ranking third after the traditionally Catholic Philippines and East Timor.

Buddhists now comprise a little over 20 percent, and there is some resentment in the Buddhist community over South Korea’s embrace of a particularly evangelical style of Christianity that places a strong emphasis on proselytizing and missionary work. The Jogye Order plans to designate more temples as Templestay hosts next year and head monk Kumgang says Mihwangsa will continue to participate in the program.”Templestay can provide people who live a busy life with a place to relax and refresh... like a realm of peace and spiritual growth,” he said. —AFP

Review

‘A Royal Affair’

love, intrigue make for danish delight t’s always good to be reminded that love, sex and political scandals existed well before our own time.

And that when it comes to royals, England’s Prince Charles and Princess Diana weren’t the first to have a rotten marriage. “A Royal Affair,” a terrific Danish film (with English subtitles), recounts an episode involving blue bloods and political intrigue during the 18th century. It’s a corker of a story that is well known in Denmark - it is taught in school there - but likely will be unfamiliar to most American viewers.

In 1766, Princess Caroline Mathilda (Alicia Vikander), 15, a member of the British royal family, was shipped off to Denmark to marry King Christian VII (Mikkel Boe Folsgaard), who was unstable and likely seriously mentally ill. Not surprisingly, the marriage was an unhappy one.

Eventually, the young Queen fell in love with and began an affair with her husband’s physician, Johann Friedrich Struensee (Mads Mikkelsen), who shared her interest in the literature and ideas of the Enlightenment.

Together, the lovers managed to take over power from the pliable King and enacted numerous major social

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reforms intended to improve the lives of the common people. This didn’t go over well with high-ranking members of the royal court. Upon seeing both their power and purses reduced, they conspired against the Queen and her

doctor beau.

That’s the basic outline of the story director and co-writer Nikolaj Arcel (“Truth About Men”) tells in this compelling costume drama. Rather than concentrate on the pomp and pageantry of court life, this is very much an intimate tale of love and

intrigue with a close focus kept on the three principle players, the Queen, the King and the good doctor.

Above all, this is a love story.

Caroline Mathilda and Dr Struensee are in love with each other and with the good they can do for Denmark if they can wield power. It proves a heady and dangerous combination. Mikkelsen, the sharpfeatured Danish star familiar from “Casino Royale” and “Clash of the Titans,” makes for an attractive leading man as the physicianreformer, intent of purpose and sympathetic. The Swedish-born Vikander ably suggests the young Queen’s confusion and unhappiness, which makes her vulnerable to trying to grab what happiness she can, even if it means a covert affair. And F¯lsgaard manages to make the capricious king almost into a figure of sympathy, someone who by an accident of birth finds himself in a job and a situation for which he is woefully ill equipped. Deign to see this Danish drama. It offers a fascinating history lesson and - the best part there’s no quiz afterward. —Reuters

Hollywood thirsts for young adult films as ‘Twilight’ ends s vampires Bella and Edward take their last bites on the big screen, Hollywood studios are on the hunt for the next “Twilight,” a movie that plays on teenage angst and, more importantly, lights up the movie box office. The first four “Twilight” movies earned $2.5 billion at theaters worldwide, propelled by passionate fans of a book series about a vampire-and-werewolf teen love triangle. Box office watchers project “Breaking Dawn - Part 2” will haul in $150 million at US and Canadian theaters this weekend, one of the year’s biggest film debuts.

Eager to replicate that performance, studios executives have been trolling through young adult novels with the dream of uncovering the next big blockbuster franchise, paying as much as $1 million to secure the film rights to the hottest books. At least four films based on books for teenagers will reach theaters next year, with young love forced to overcome alien parasites, evil zombies and other supernatural bad guys. Executives

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hope they can uncover a story that excites tech-savvy teens, who supercharged the buzz mill for “The Hunger Games” and other hits by spreading the word to friends through social media posts. “It’s a very enthusiastic and deep passion that young people feel for a book they love,” said Nina Jacobson, executive producer of “The Hunger Games,” which spawned a blockbuster film franchise with $687 million in worldwide ticket sales this spring.

“When they love something, they share it,” Jacobson said. The four-year “Twilight” movie saga lifted tiny studio Summit Entertainment into Hollywood’s big leagues and paved the way for its $412 million acquisition in January by Lions Gate Entertainment, the studio behind “The Hunger Games.” The coming young adult films incorporate paranormal themes like those in the “Twilight” movies or dark dystopian futures and battles for survival reminiscent of “The Hunger Games,” and do it

through the drama of young love. Summit is aiming to get “Twilight” fans buzzing about next February’s zombie romance “Warm Bodies” with a trailer before “Breaking Dawn Part 2.”“Warm Bodies” star Teresa Palmer chatted about the movie - a love story between a zombie and human - while she strolled the red carpet at a “Breaking Dawn” premiere. A couple of weeks after “Warm Bodies,” Warner Brothers will trot out fantasy movie “Beautiful Creatures,” about a teen girl with magical powers and a boy who is drawn to her, with a debut on Valentine’s Day. The movie “shares as much in common with ‘Twilight’ as it does with ‘Harry Potter,’” said Andrew Kosove, copresident of production studio Alcon Entertainment, referring to the boy-wizard series that grossed $7.7 billion in worldwide ticket sales and woke up Hollywood to the power of adaptations of children’s and young adult books. —Reuters

A 30-meter-tall (100-foot-tall) steel Christmas tree with about 30,000 light bulbs is lit by Christian groups at the western mountain peak, known as Aegibong, in Gimpo, South Korea, Saturday. —AP

South Koreans light giant border Christmas tree outh Koreans have lit a Christmas tree-shaped tower near the tense border with North Korea for the first time in two years following North Korea’s rocket launch.

Seoul’s Defense Ministry said Sunday that it allowed Christian groups to light the massive steel tower Saturday.

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It’s to stay lit until Jan 2.

Pyongyang views the tower as propaganda warfare, though it has not yet responded to this year’s lighting.

The lighting came 10 days after North Korea placed a satellite into orbit aboard a long-range rocket. South Korea and the US say the launch was a

test of banned missile technology. The tree wasn’t lit last year after officials asked Christians to refrain from doing so to avoid tension following the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il last December. —AP

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MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

LIFESTYLE F e a t u r e s

Wrap stars: Experts make present-ation special

Professional gift wrapper Raina Toy uses a glue gun to affix a feather to a finished package for a unique look at her Fresno, California home. —MCT photos eed some pointers to wrap holiday’s gifts that catch people’s eyes? We talked to some gift wrapping experts in the central San Joaquin Valley to help you at this time of year when everybody is buying gifts.

These experts say it is important to make a gift look nice because it goes a long way with the recipients. Raina Toy operates her business, The Badly Guarded Girl, out of her Fresno, Calif, home.

She specializes in customized gift wrapping and other services related to special events. She has earned a reputation with clients for her artistry, ranging from “spikes” that jut from boxes to peacock feathers that sway atop the box.

Her fee is usually $3-$20.

A longtime Fresno stationery/gift

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Raina Toy uses different types of ribbons together for a unique and personal touch to her gift wrapping.

boutique, Not Just Paper, also has a reputation for attractive gift wrapping. Coowners Karen Genovese and Allyson Adams, as well as employees, doll up gifts with curly ribbons in colors that complement the wrap. The gift wrapping is a free service to customers. (The store began wrapping gifts bought elsewhere for a fee. Average-size gifts already boxed cost about $8. Averagesize gifts needing a box cost about $10.)

“When they see it wrapped in a special way, they also feel special,” Raina says.

“When I wrap, I pour all my heart into it.

They are going to feel what you did.”

Genovese agrees, equating it to the effect that the presentation of food on a plate has on diners. “Presentation is everything,” she says. “They think that if someone takes the time to prepare a gift

in a special way, it says a lot about how that person thinks of them.”

Here are some recommendations for the holidays.

Tips from toy Save old gift wrapping-even scraps: Feed it into a paper shredder to reuse for “packing” inside a box. Beats plain, old tissue. “There’s all that color,” she says.

Use quality gift wrap: It is thicker, folds better and resists tearing or wrinkling.

“You can feel the difference,” she says.

Toy also recommends butcher paper that also is thicker and takes on varying appearances, such as modern, rustic or shabby chic.

Use quality ribbon: The best kinds to work with are satin-based or wired ribbon, she says. They keep their shape and

Although bows are not a big part of gift wrapping for Raina Toy, the ones she does do have a very unique look.

don’t show imperfections.

Think of a theme: Wrap all holiday gifts similarly each year, such as themes with floral patterns or black and white.

“You can also tie an ornament with ribbon to the gift,” she says.

Use a hot glue gun: Rather than use a bow, fashion a topper out of feathers or leaves and pebbles-held together with the use of a glue gun. Double-sided tape also is a must.

Tips from Genovese & Adams Use gift bags as alternative to flat wrap: First, place the tissue-wrapped gift in the bottom of the bag. Then, use tissue as topper for the bag. Genovese demonstrated by holding the long end of a piece of tissue in the palm of her hand and snapping it downward into a

cone shape. Then, she carefully tucked it into the bag so that it kept its shape.

Use celo: There’s no masking a gift wrapped in cellophane. Beware: You need a second set of hands. One holds the top. The other cinches it with ribbon.

Crease the edges on boxes: It makes the gift wrapping look crisp and neat.

Nobody likes wrinkles on wrap.

Cut the gift wrap to size: Extra wrap that is tucked under creates a bulky, messy look that can be unappealing.

Double-bow gifts: It creates a biggerbow look. Embellish it with curled ribbons that provide a festive look-and make recipients smile. —MCT

Tasty gifts: Don’t forget homemade presents from your kitchen this year et’s face it: You could easily buy a present for everyone on your list. But it doesn’t have the same heartfelt ring as a gift from the kitchen. So bake up a batch of cookies, make some fudge or get the children involved with one of the pretzel projects featured here. Then start a new tradition by giving a little bit. Cut fudge into small pieces and bake cookies into bite-size morsels. Place your homemade gifts-just one item is enough-into small packages set off with a colorful ribbon or a handmade card. Give just enough for a few sweet tastes.

Sometimes less is more, especially when it has everyone looking forward to a gift from your kitchen again next year.

Fantasy fudge Ingredients: 3 cups sugar cup butter or margarine 1 small can (5 ounces) evaporated milk (about 2/3 cup-do not use sweetened condensed milk.)

12 ounces Baker’s Semi-Sweet Chocolate, chopped 1 jar (7 ounces) Jet-puffed Marshmallow Creme 1 cup chopped walnuts 1 teaspoon vanilla Instructions: Line 9-inch square pan with foil, with ends of foil extending over sides. Bring sugar, butter and evaporated milk to a full rolling boil in 3-quart saucepan on medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook 4 minutes or until candy thermometer reaches 234 degrees, stirring constantly. Remove from heat.

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You could easily buy a present for everyone on your list. But it doesn’t have the same heartfelt ring as a gift from the heart, like these pretzel treats. —MCT photos Add chocolate and marshmallow creme; stir until melted. Add nuts and vanilla; mix well.

Pour into prepared pan; spread to cover bottom of pan. Cool completely. Use foil handles to lift fudge from pan before cutting into squares.

This recipe, from www.kraftrecipes.com, is courtesy of Gene Lieb, publisher of the Los Banos Enterprise.

Lieb learned to make fudge from his mom.

“It has been a tradition that I have followed since I was 12 years old,” said Lieb, who is now 49. “Over the years I have experimented a bit with different types of chips and whether I put walnuts in my fudge or

not but, for the most part, it’s been the same recipe every year thanks to Kraft Foods. It’s printed on their marshmallow cream bottle.

“And so I can’t take credit for it, but it usually turns out pretty good each year. Feel free to substitute whatever chips you find from white chocolate to mint to peanut butter to dark chocolate to traditional milk ... they all work. The only one I haven’t tried yet is butterscotch ... maybe next year.”

Lieb offers a few tips: 5-ounces of evaporated milk works out to be 2/3 cup, which means 1 can of evaporated milk is enough for two

The official name for Brazilian fudge is pistachio brigadeiros, and it can be made a number of ways including with chocolate or coconut. batches of fudge.

“I use a 9-by-9 aluminum pan and just butter the pan-bottom and sides. When it cools, I cover it with foil and put it in the fridge. After a night in the fridge I remove the foil, turn it upside down on a cutting board and gently push down on the bottom of the pan and it will fall out of the pan fairly easily. Then I cut it into squares-you choose small or large squares.”

Lieb does not use a candy thermometer.

“Once it starts boiling really well, I time it for 4 minutes while it’s still boiling the entire time-stirring continuously so that nothing sticks. In fact, I stir the mixture from the moment I turn on the burner to the time I pour it into the pan. I never want it to stick.”

The nuts are optional.

The 1 teaspoon of vanilla is important to give the finished fudge the right shine.

Citrus salts Makes generous 1 cup Ingredients: 1 cup coarse salt 3 tablespoon citrus zest Instructions: Mix salt and zest in a bowl. Spread on baking trays and air dry overnight. Package in small containers for gift-giving. Use as a finishing salt on fish, beef, poultry or vegetables.

Fortune cookies Fill each of these cookies with a personalized message of good will and give them to your family and friends for the holidays, New Year or any other significant event.

Bake the cookies in small quantities, because you have to work very quickly to fill and shape them once they come out of the oven before the delicate mixture becomes dry, brittle and impossible to fold.

Ingredients: cup all-purpose flour Pinch of ground ginger Pinch of salt 3 large egg whites 1 cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 2/3 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly Instructions: Preheat the oven to 300 degrees and line two baking sheets with nonstick parchment paper. Sift together the flour, ground ginger and salt. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the egg whites until foamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract and whisk until combined. Stir in the sifted dry ingredients, then add the melted butter, and blend until smooth. Set aside for 10 minutes.

Draw 2-by-2 -inch circles on each sheet of parchment paper and spoon 1 tablespoon of the mixture onto each circle. Using either the back of a spoon or a palette knife spread the mixture in an even layer to fill the circles. Bake 1 sheet on the middle rack of the preheated oven and the other on the shelf below for about 6 to 8 minutes, until the cookies are starting to turn golden at the edges.

Working quickly, remove one sheet of parchment paper from the oven at a time, leaving the other baking sheet inside and, using a palette knife, carefully and quickly lift the cookies off the parchment paper. Flip the cookie over, lay your fortune message in the middle, and fold the cookie over it in half. Bring the points of the cookie together to make the fortune cookie curl and leave to cool in a muffin pan (this will help them to keep their shape). Repeat with the remaining cookies.

Once you have used up all of the mixture

and all of your cookies are baked and shaped, slide the muffin pan into the oven for another minute to brown them evenly.

Leave to cool in the pans before packaging in takeout boxes. Stored in an airtight container, they will keep for up to 3 days.

This recipe is from “Gifts from the Kitchen: 100 Irresistible Homemade Presents for Every Occasion,” by Annie Rigg.

Half the fun of giving fortune cookies as gifts is writing the fortunes.

Pistachio brigadeiros Ingredients: 7-ounce can sweetened condensed milk 2 tablespoons double cream 1 teaspoon light corn syrup 1-2 tablespoons pistachio paste, preferably Fabri 1 teaspoon unsalted butter 1 cup finely ground pistachios Instructions: Place the condensed milk, double cream, corn syrup, pistachio paste and butter in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil.

As soon as it starts to boil, turn the heat

to low and cook, whisking constantly while the milk thickens into a dense fudge, about 8 to 10 minutes. You know it is done when you tilt the pan and the whole fudge slides as a piece, leaving the burnt bits on the bottom of the pan.

Slide the mixture into a bowl, without scraping the bottom of the pan. Leave to cool at room temperature. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Scoop the mixture by the teaspoonful and, using your hands, roll each into a little ball, and (inch) in diameter.

Place the ground pistachios in a bowl.

Roll 4 to 6 brigadeiros at a time in the nuts, making sure they cover the entire surface.

Store in an airtight plastic container at room temperature for 2 days or up to 1 month in the refrigerator. Eat them at room temperature.

This recipe is from “The Brazilian Kitchen: 100 Classic and Creative Recipes for the Home Cook,” by Leticia Moreinos Schwartz (Kyle Books, $19.95).

Use melting chocolate, also called confectionery coating or summer coating, in these pretzel recipes. You’ll get better results because the cocoa butter has been replaced by vegetable shortening, and the resulting product can be melted, poured and molded with no loss of flavor or texture.

Dipped pretzel sticks Instructions: Cover the table with butcher paper and set out jimmies, chopped nuts and dried fruit in small bowls and let the kids go crazy.

You’ll need 1 bag of pretzel rods, 1 bag of semisweet chocolate chips, and chopped nuts, sprinkles and dried fruit.

Melt chocolate in microwave for 30 seconds at a time, stirring until smooth and liq-

uid-like. Dip one end of each pretzel stick in the chocolate. Pull out the stick, turning each to remove excess chocolate. Dip in cup of topping or lay flat on wax paper and sprinkle topping over chocolate. Refrigerate 15 to 20 minutes until candy sets.

Peppermint pretzel bites Instructions: These easy, colorful treats require a bag of waffle pretzels and 1 to 2 bags of Hershey’s peppermint kisses.

Preheat oven to 300 degrees. Spread pretzels flat on a cookie sheet. Place an unwrapped piece of candy on each pretzel, and then place the cookie sheet in the oven for 2 to 3 minutes. When the candies look glossy and soft, take the sheet out of the oven and place a waffle pretzel on top.

Gently press down. Refrigerate for 15 to 20 minutes or until firm. Youngsters will have fun making these.

Santa hat pretzels Instructions: You’ll need mini pretzels, mini marshmallows, melting white chocolate and red sugar crystals for this recipe.

Carefully melt chocolate in microwave in 30-second intervals according to package directions. Be careful: White chocolate burns easily, turning brown. You can also melt it in a double broiler.

Dip top of pretzel in melted chocolate.

Immediately stick marshmallow on right side of pretzel and sprinkle on red sugar crystals before the white chocolate cools.

You should be able to visualize a Santa hat. Refrigerate for 10 minutes until candy sets. —MCT

Members of a local Smiling Yoga club wearing Santa Claus costumes perform at a public park in Hanoi yesterday. Churches, shops, restaurants and shopping malls are decorated in the Southeast Asian nation with some six million Catholics preparing to celebrate Christmas. —AFP

Tasty gifts: Don’t forget homemade presents from your kitchen this year

MONDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2012

Consider these options for a Christmas tree that lasts well after New Year’s

39 ‘Ugly’ Christmas

By Neil Sperry McClatchy Newspapers

Many families like the option of buying a living tree from the nursery for their Christmas tree, so they can plant it into the landscape instead of sending it off after the holidays. But that might not be a good idea, depending on the species of tree, among other things. You see, just because a tree has roots and seems to be growing well at a nursery doesn’t guarantee its long-term success in your region. Let’s examine some facts.

Living Christmas trees, depending on the species, often grow to be full-size evergreen trees — 30 to 40 feet tall and almost as wide. Before you buy a tree based on how it’s going to look in your home, think, too, about how it’s going to look in your landscape. If it’s not a match for both of those places, it’s not a match as your living Christmas tree.

University research has shown that living Christmas trees’ rate of survival after planting is inversely proportionate to the number of days a tree stays indoors. Ideally, you’ll not have it inside more than 10 or 12 days. Warm, dry and dark indoor conditions just don’t bode well for evergreens. Keep it as cool as you can (away from hot drafts, the fireplace, etc.) and moist. Buy it early if you need to, but keep it in the patio “staging area,” awaiting its trip indoors. After the holiday, keep an eye on the weather, and when you can see three or four days of nonextreme weather coming up, get it planted and watered. It will have become acclimated to the warmth, so you don’t want to set it out when temperatures are forecast to drop into the 20s.

WHAT TYPES ARE BEST? ▲ HOLLIES. Nellie R. Stevens, Willowleaf (zones 6 to 8) and Oakland (*zones 6 to 9) hollies trained in pyramidal form are the most dependable. Of all the types, Oakland hollies are the most commonly found trained in Christmas-tree size and shape. Note your soil type and climate as well. Savannah (zones 6 to 9), Foster (zones 6 to 9), East Palatka (zones 7 to 9) and all American holly hybrids (zones vary) need acidic soils and high humidity. ▲ ARIZONA CYPRESS (zones 7 to 9). We’ve grown this soft-textured Southwestern native for decades here in Texas, and through that time, it has almost gone overlooked as a good tree for use at this season. Buy one of the grafted “blue” types for the best color. It must have good drainage and ample room (35 feet tall and 30 feet wide). ▲ EASTERN RED CEDAR (zones 2 to 9) and other junipers. Know the type’s mature size before you buy it.

Make sure you have the space it will require. Your nurseryman can advise you.

THREE SPECIAL TYPES ▲ TRIMMED ROSEMARY (zones 7 to 10). This wonderful herb, right, grows quite well in many conditions.

You’ll find the plants sold, perhaps even pre-decorated with bows and balls, as trimmed little tabletop trees. They’re great plants, and they can certainly be set out into herb beds in the landscape, but it’s difficult to maintain that shape. If you choose to buy one, plant it into the landscape after the holidays and let it grow on its own. ▲ NORFOLK ISLAND PINE (zones 10, 11). This is a fabulous tabletop Christmas tree, with its gracefully arching branches and its J A M E S F. soft-textured needles. If you have QUINN/ C H I C AG O really bright light, you can even TRIBUNE/MCT grow it as a potted tropical — for a while. What most of This fresh us were horrified to learn, rosemary bush shaped into a after growing these beauholiday tree, ties for several years, is that their mature height in nature brings scent and substance to the is 50 or 60 feet or taller. kitchen. You can They’re huge trees! And, since they’re rigidly symmetrical, there is find a similar version, 20 to 28 nothing you can do to keep them inches tall, for pruned back. They won’t tolerate freezing weather, either. So, if you $78.95 from Jackson & opt for one, know going in that it will break your heart at some point Perkins. when you’re forced to discard it. ▲ ALBERTA SPRUCE (zones 3 to 7). This dwarf conifer makes a wonderful tabletop tree, but it won’t tolerate weather extremes — heat or cold. Use it like you would a long-lasting flower arrangement. When it begins to wither, allow yourself the liberty of discarding it.

TREES WITH TROUBLES ▲ ELDARICA (also referred to as Afghan or Mondell) pines (zones 6 to 10) were introduced into the United States landscaping industry 35 years ago.

They made sense: They were native to arid areas of Afghanistan, so they had to be tolerant of drought. But they’ve cropped up with disease issues we didn’t anticipate, and they can’t handle waterlogged soils. They’re not good choices for dry areas that get deluged at times. ▲ COLORADO BLUE SPRUCES (zones 2 to 7).

There’s a reason they’re named for that mountainous state, where they can thrive at 8,000 feet and 80-degree summer days. They’ll live for a while in hotter regions, but they won’t be happy, and neither will you. ▲ LEYLAND CYPRESS (zones 6 to 10). We all loved it when they were first planted into landscapes.

However, Seiridium canker has devastated the once-lovely conifer. They’ve been toasted (literally), and there is no control for the disease. *According to the Arbor Day Foundation, plant hardiness zones divide the United States and Canada into 11 areas, based on 10-degree differences in the average annual minimum temperature. By knowing what zone you're in, you can find a tree or perennial that can survive in your area. To find your zone, check out www.arborday.org/treeinfo/zonelookup.cfm.

sweaters getting second looks as popularity prances

Fred Montana models an, ìahem,’ fine example of an ugly sweater. — MCT

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holiday sweater decorated with dancing snowmen in ski hats rarely has qualified as high fashion. But never have such festive frocks been so joyfully and openly ridiculed as they are today. Across the nation, “Ugly Christmas Sweater” parties and contests are all the rage, and the louder and tackier the garment, the better. The trend has given birth to a cottage industry of stores, blogs and books, and has been a bonanza for shops that sell vintage clothing.

“Every year, it gets bigger and bigger and seems to start earlier,” said Lorena Maxim, a sales associate at Thrift Town on El Camino Avenue in Sacramento, Calif. “People started asking about them around Labor Day this year, because they know we sell out so quickly.” Demand for vintage holiday sweaters decorated with images of rakish Santas and teddy bear soldiers and cute fluffy animals peeking out of Christmas stockings has been so brisk that Thrift Town is offering customers $5 to return their “ugly sweaters” after their parties are over. “Ugly Christmas sweaters are big business for us as of the past few years,” said Thrift Town spokeswoman Gina Doglione-Nielsen. “They tend to fly out of our stores as soon as our crews put them out on the floor.” Sales of the items have increased “10 percent year by year,” she said. Last year, Thrift Town launched an online Ugly Sweater Contest, with a $250 prize for the top entry.

The holiday sweater racks were nearly bare late last week at the Sacramento SPCA’s thrift shop on E Street, leaving customers angling for substitutes. “They’re selling like hotcakes,” said clerk Cindy Taylor. “We’ve just about run out of sweaters, so people are going for sweatshirts and T-shirts and decorating them with ornaments and all kinds of things.” The goal is to snag the award for “ugliest sweater.”

At many parties, that means not just the garish, woven images of elves, candy canes and polar bears but also dangling ornaments and electronic accoutrements such as flashing Christmas lights, blinking reindeer snouts and even sewn-in iPads playing a video of a cozy fire.

Two men in Vancouver, Canada, claim to have hosted the world’s first Ugly Sweater Party in 2002. The pair, Chris Boyd and Jordan Birch, hold an annual holiday bash at the prestigious Commodore Hotel, and have trademarked the phrases “ugly Christmas sweater” and “ugly Christmas sweater party” in Canada.

Now, people from New York to Los Angeles are hosting sweater-themed events, and schools and businesses are holding “Ugly Sweater Days.” Tonight at DeVere’s Irish Pub in Sacramento, a local “Tweetup” group is holding a charity event featuring a prize for the person wearing the frock “deemed to be the most hideous holiday sweater ever seen in the Central Valley,” said organizer Corinne Litchfield of ExploreSacto. “This sweater thing has hit all the way with everyone, no matter the ethnicity, the age group, the background,” said Maxim of Thrift Town. “We have businessmen coming in, we have teachers, we have office groups looking for them and doing the craziest things with them.”

Of course, not everyone thinks that fuzzy holiday sweaters in bright red and green are ugly. Undoubtedly, the garments were designed to be perceived as attractive, said Robert Thompson, professor of popular culture at Syracuse University. But taste, and fashion, have evolved.

“Clothes have always been a canvas to express all kinds of things, and I’m sure there are still many people out there who wear these wild sweaters because they think they are pretty,” said Thompson. Even those who hold up the garments as hideous, Thompson said, may unwittingly be responding to a sense of nostalgia and fond memories of childhood. “They’re wearing them with a deep sense of irony,” said Thompson. “It’s sort of a tongue-in-cheek, pink flamingo sort of thing. They’re making fun. “At the same time, there is something beautiful about wearing a really obviously themed Christmas sweater. Most people, at some point in their lives, have owned something with snowflakes on it, or had a teacher who came to school decked out in outrageous sweaters because the kids loved them. They have fond memories of that.” Thompson himself has a soft spot for holiday sweaters. —MCT