08 Jul

The invisible problem of child molestation

Couture ends with revolution, as masses enter show

46

FR EE

2

Argentina booed off after 0-0 draw with Colombia

63 Max 49º Min 31º

NO: 15143- Friday, July 8, 2011

www.kuwaittimes.net

News of the World folds

See Page 13

Saleh’s new look See Page 13

A file picture taken on Aug 31, 1997, shows a woman reading about the death of Britain’s Diana, Princess of Wales, in a copy of the News of the World newspaper in London. The tabloid will print its last ever edition on Sunday July 10, 2011, following a scandal over phone hacking. — AFP

Local FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The invisible problem of

child molestation People are used to avoiding the subject of child molestation, and if a campaign is launched it would be considered offensive. It is reaching a dangerous and unhealthy state of denial

By Hussain Al-Qatari

W

hen children are scared, their instinctive reaction in seeking safety is to turn to their parents. Children are vulnerable, innocent, doling out kisses on the cheeks of parents, aunts and uncles, and they are ever ready to learn from and imitate how adults behave. So what happens if these caretakers are actually the ones abusing the children? Who do children turn to when they are hurt by their parents?

Lawyer Mariam Al-Bahar, a member of the children’s rights committee at Kuwait Lawyer’s Association, recounted a heartbreaking incident she had to deal with. An 11-year-old girl appeared at school with bloodstains on her clothes for weeks. When a staff member asked her about the reason behind the bloodstains, the girl broke down in tears and refused to speak. She was then taken to the police station by one of her teachers to file a lawsuit against both her parents. “She kept silent for weeks, but finally spoke up. Her father used to rape her every day. Every day. And when she sought help from her mother, [her mother] slapped her and refused to speak to her again.”

Because the girl had no other guardian, she was taken into the custody of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor (MSAL) and put in an institution housing juvenile delinquents since no suitable accommodation was available.

Legislative punishment for child molestation is very strict, but the cultural and social stigma around the subject in Kuwait makes it hard for people to speak up. According to Kuwaiti law, the sentence for a guardian who sexually abuses a child is either death or life imprisonment.

Kuwaiti law defines a guardian as a parent, uncle, older sibling, babysitter, teacher or domestic helper.

Lack of reporting Despite the knowledge that such incidents do take place, however, only a handful are reported. Al-Bahar explained that the majority of abuse victims choose not to file lawsuits: “If the news of a child who was molested by a parent - which happens often in Kuwait - breaks out, the entire family gets affected for many years to come. Because society looks at a family that had such an instance as a family that is contaminated and dirty, it becomes something that the family prefers to keep a secret.”

There are several cases she dealt with in which girls were impregnated by fathers, uncles, or brothers and had abortions. In one instance, a girl was taken to a hospital after complications from attempting to abort the pregnancy at home. When the hospital personnel called the police to investigate the suspicious abortion, especially since the girl was in her early teens and had no marriage certificate, the family refused to file a lawsuit. “The siblings ended up taking the sister to the delinquents’ rehabilitation center, explained the lawyer. “The social workers there found out her side of the story. She was wrongly put in a place she doesn’t belong because her family refused to punish the relative responsible, and they did not want to deal with the shame.”

Social perspective Kuwaiti society is uncomfortable with talking about sex-related issues.

When a sex-related subject is raised in conversation, people will often switch to speaking in coded language about it. Social worker Sawsan Al-Beloushi said: “When a mother finds out that her child’s uncle or her own husband is molesting her child, sadly she prefers to keep silent. Noone wants to deal with the stigma of sexual abuse.”

Child molestation and abuse is underreported in Kuwait, Al-Beloushi added, with the amount of cases reported representing only a small fraction of what actually takes place.

“What is disappointing is that we cannot launch an awareness campaign about the subject,” she continued.

“People are so used to avoiding this subject, and if a campaign was launched, it would be considered offensive. It is reaching a dangerous and unhealthy state of denial.”

For a sexually abused child to speak up takes great courage, and abuse victims need to find support. In this part of the world, children are often taught to blindly obey and respect their elders no matter what those elders ask them to do, explained Al-Beloushi. “A pretty common saying we hear here is, ‘If your elder asks you to jump into the ocean and drown, you do it.’ This is pretty much what happens to those children. They don’t want to be disobedient, even though this blind obedience is leading them towards destruction. At the same time, they are not taken seriously when they complain.”

Local FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Satire Wire

Get the hint?

By Sawsan Kazak

Conspiracy Theories

What do you do with a drunken pilot?

sawsank@kuwaittimes.net

E

By Badrya Darwish

ver notice how there are some people who truly do not get the hint. People who act awkwardly in social situations or make others feel uncomfortable and have no idea that they are doing that. The other day I was having a conversation with a friend when someone we knew walked up to us and stood there - no explanation or reason. Awkwardly we all stood there not saying anything.

Clearly we stopped talking because he had added himself to the conversation but he wasn’t getting that. After what felt like an eternity I said, ‘So, what’s up? Did you want something?’

He said no and kept on standing there.

How can people like this be so oblivious to the world around them?

How could our uneasy faces and deafening silence not have been like a slap in the face for this person? I thought our behavior was making it clear that we wished he would go, but I guess

that wasn’t the hint he was getting. It was almost like the hint he was getting was ‘Please stay here, stand without saying anything and continue to make us feel completely uncomfortable.’ What should we have done to get rid of him? Should we have said, ‘We would like you to leave as we were having a private conversation and you are preventing us from carrying on. Please turn around and get as far away as possible and remember to only speak when spoken to’?

Naturally I could not have said all those things without feeling absolutely guilty at making that person feel bad, so in return I’d have to feel bad for his oblivious and somewhat careless nature.

There are many people like him who simply don’t know how to behave in social situations and don’t pick up on obvious hints being thrown out. There are those who invite themselves over without being

invited, help themselves to your food without it having been offered to them, or simply butt into conversations without having been spoken to.

I’m not sure these people get absolutely no hint that they are not wanted, but somewhere along the line, choose to ignore the clues. If you have identified yourself from these examples please realize that your presence could be annoying to some people. The next time you walk up to people or invite yourself somewhere, try to be aware of the reaction you’re getting and not just what you want to happen. If people look unhappy, distressed and anxious at the thought of you being there, leave. If a very weird silence develops when you are there, leave! If you are unsure if people want you in their presence you can simply ask. If their voice hits a very highpitched and unnatural tone when they are giving you their answer, that means they are lying - so leave.

Kaffeeklatsch

Capos vs capons

By Shakir Reshamwala shakir@kuwaittimes.net

T

he newsroom these days is like a madhouse. Where in the past the summer months were slow and stories like the Pamplona bull run would make the front page for want of anything exciting, nowadays there’s no place in the paper to fit all the watershed events happening around the world. From revolutions to rumblings to royal weddings, the news pours in thick and fast. Between dictators digging in and victims being dug up, the day goes by in a whirr.

Amid the cackling of caponized cuckolds, cries of change are emerging. Leaders who ruled like mafiosos are finding the ground shifting from under their feet. These momentous events did not happen overnight. They were fed by years of injustice and oppression. Repression and torture. To the point where the masses had nothing to lose. And there is no man more dangerous than one who has nothing to lose.

People are more informed and connected now than they had ever been. The so-called Arab Spring is a result of this awareness. The world is hurtling through time at unimaginable speeds. There is no denying that weeks are passing like days and years like months, aided by technological and social changes. The world as we know it will never be the same again.

Back in the newsroom, these are heady days. The role of the media - both traditional and social - is vital in disseminating and crunching the loads of information floating around. As they say, bad news is good news for the media, but what to report and what to ignore is a veritable minefield. The media has a mandate to inform, but is challenged by the fast pace of unfolding events.

P.S. News of the World is dead. RIP.

KUWAIT: Colourful kettles hang for sale at a shop in Souq Mubarakiya. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

badrya_d@kuwaittimes.net

T

he story about the drunk pilot has made the weekend news. As it is hot and people are bored to death, they had some exciting news to chew on for the weekend. The diwaniyas now will have enough to gossip about. I join the gossip line and give you my analysis.

Here is the story of the allegedly drunk captain from Kuwait Airways, whose name I cannot mention because his tribe might come and storm the building of the newspaper. This is the last thing press freedom needs. Forget his name, guys. He was on a flight coming back from Dubai on Wednesday night. I tried to reach somebody at Kuwait Airport or in Kuwait Airways to find out what went wrong and why. But as usual, it has been a mission impossible. As everything in our country that goes wrong, is suddenly taboo until we see it on BBC, Sky News or CNN or all over the international media. Then only somebody in charge gives an explanation.

Honestly, I don’t know the truth if there was a setup for the pilot or it is true that he was drunk. Either way, I don’t think he was flying the plane as he was suspended for the last eight months after an emergency landing in November in Bangladesh. Still, he was wearing his uniform on the Dubai flight. But this means that he could have been on a business trip for Kuwait Airways and that is why he was wearing his uniform. Definitely he was not flying the plane. Even if he was flying the plane, I doubt it that he would sit in a bar openly and start drinking. According to passengers, he was seen at Dubai Airport getting drunk. They tipped the authorities at Kuwait Airport, too. So, at the arrival they were waiting for him. But mind you, no bar in the world would legally sell drinks to a pilot openly at the airport in front of everyone.

The picture showing how the police at the airport was waiting for him to escort him handcuffed does not prove that he was drunk. If he was abused by customs, he would definitely react. He is a Kuwaiti and he would react. I think this is a possible scenario of why he is still locked up for this incident.

What I am asking, why the hush-hush for such stories? We demand from our government to come out and tell us the truth. There is nothing wrong in telling whether that pilot was drunk or there was a set-up.

Even the biggest airlines, when they have a drunk pilot, they announce it and action is taken against the pilot. Actually, when keeping quiet, the government creates more headache in case the guy was innocent.

In that way they tarnish his reputation more.

As it is, Kuwait Airways already has a tarnished image, and they do not need a story about a drunk pilot. True or not, I don’t think I am brave enough to fly with a drunk pilot. Flying itself is dangerous, let alone if he is drunk. I think next time we fly, we should all take our own breathalyzers and check the breath of the pilot. “Hey, captain. Can I check your breath?”

Have a nice and safe flight, guys, wherever you are going.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Online travel

set to rise in Middle East

By Sawsan Kazak

T

here was an era, not too long ago, when travel agents controlled the world of travel, being the only link between passengers and carriers. Back then, before taking a trip to another country, one would have to visit a travel agent’s office to book, pay and obtain one’s airplane tickets. In recent years, however, the process of traveling has drastically changed. The advent and availability of the Internet has revolutionized the way we travel. With all airlines allowing passengers to search and book their own tickets on their personal websites and hundreds of websites offering travelers the ability to compare prices, schedules and availability, as well as to get discounts on travel tickets. A traveler can now plan and book and pay for their entire trip through the Internet without ever having to contact a travel agent.

This convenience has seen many travelers around the world opting for online booking, making travel agents somewhat unnecessary. This phenomenon took a while to get to the Middle East, but is finally catching on in the region. Research by Euromonitor International revealed that the online travel and tourism industry is ‘poised to experience solid growth over the next five years.’ Revealed at the 2011 World Travel Market (WTM) conference in Dubai earlier this year, the research forecast an annual growth rate of 13 percent in the online tourism in the Middle East between 2010 and 2015.

Online booking picks up Suja, a travel agent with the Azzad travel agency in Kuwait, has not seen a noticeable increase in the numbers of online bookings to date, however. “Honestly, I have not personally noticed a change in online booking. People in the Middle East still prefer to book through an agent,” said Suja, who has been working in the field for 15 years.

One of the reasons people still choose to have their bookings done for them could be due to concerns over conducting financial transactions online, she said, explaining, “Many people still do not think it’s safe to put their credit card information on the internet.” Other reasons for choosing the personal touch over the internet could be due to past experiences, she suggested: “Some travelers have had bad experiences when they booked tickets through a website. If they wish to make changes to their plans, the airlines do not assist them at all. They are told by the airlines, ‘You have made the booking online, go change it online,’ leaving them completely helpless.”

Suja added, however, that she has noticed one difference in travelers’ behavior with the advent of

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

the internet. “People are more aware of prices and timings,” she said. “Whereas before there was a blackout on information and we were the only direct link to airlines, now people come in having done their own research.”

Most travel agents charge slightly more than their online counterparts, but people don’t usually mind this additional expense, Suja revealed, adding, “Travelers prefer paying the service charge and having the security we offer.”

LCC in the air The emergence of budget airline has reshaped the airline industry in the world, and particularly in the Middle Exast. One of the most convenient features of flying low-cost is the booking-friendly options online. “The future of the industry is online,” says Reema Termos, Managing Director of TRACCS, a public relations company that handles customers from the aviation industry, one of which is a budget carrier. “Older generations are afraid to book online as they have to share their credit card information and this makes them apprehensive,” Termos explains. She believes that the younger generations are more willing to share online information as they are more educated and aware of the Internet. “There is great potential for major growth in this field as people are more aware and the younger generations are more daring when it comes to online booking,” said Termos.

Talal, a Jordanian expat, said that whilst he has no problem with booking online, the problem is in his credit card, explaining jokingly, “I never have enough money on my credit cards to pay for the tickets!” Talal explained that he usually buys tickets to Jordan for his family and they usually travel without him, which causes a problem with online bookings. “Airlines usually specify that people who travel have to have the credit card used online with them. When I buy my tickets through an agent, I don’t have this problem.”

Joel, a Filipino expat, said that he never books his tickets online. “I guess I’m old-fashioned like that, but I always go to an agent for my travel tickets,” says Joel. His ability to book online is also hindered by the fact that he doesn’t have a credit card, he added: “I pay my tickets in cash or by K-net and I can’t do that if I want to book online.”

W

hat could be worse than being crammed like a tightly-packed sardine into a constricted economy seat for a ten-and-a-half-hour flight? The only thing making this situation even more annoying is the fact that there are a lucky few who were able to snag some prime seating real estate on the plane. You know, those people who have a mile of leg room and only one neighbor to the left of them and who are nowhere near the stinky toilets.

Have you ever wondered how they were able to get such great locations on the plane when you came early to the airport so that you could have first pick and specifically asked that girl at the check-in counter to give you some leg room? Well, apparently going to the airport five hours before your flight and trying to bribe the check-in clerk is not how to obtain the super-special plane seats.

“There is no trick to getting the exit seats on a plane as they are not available until the last minute,” says Fawaz, a travel agent in Kuwait. “The exit seats are left empty until the last minute as the airlines would prefer to keep them empty for security purposes,” Fawaz explained. Fawaz advised any passengers wanting the exit seats to ask the staff on the plane once they’ve boarded the aircraft; if the seats are empty the stewards have the authority to move people there. “Budget airlines are the only airlines that charge you for being able to pick your seat,” revealed Fawaz.

He explained that regular airlines should not charge you for your seat selection, but will block out the option of choosing the exit seats.

As for the seats up front, they are reserved for being designated by the handling staff at the airport. “These seats are the only ones that can accommodate a bassinet for small chil-

dren, therefore they are reserved for families traveling with kids,” explained Mohsin, another travel agent in Kuwait. He added, “Many people do not pre-reserve their seats on the plane and show up at the airport with children or special cases and the staff at the airport will give them the seats in front.”

According to both agents, both the exit row seats and the front seats are reserved and can only be designated by airport staff.

Apparently they are held until the last minute to either keep them empty for safety or assigned to those that really need them. The other seats on the plane, however, can be chosen ahead of time without any additional cost to your ticket. A charge of a few dinars allows you to choose your preferred seat; the closer to the front, the more expensive.

Check it before you get it That being said, there are, undeniably, some seats on the plane that are better than others. Different aircraft have different layouts. Some airplane seat only two people near the window and four in the middle while others distribute the seats in another way, with three people near the window and three in the center. The size of the aircraft also affects the amount of people who will be on the flight. Since the average traveler is not knowledgeable about all airplane models and seat-

ing layouts, however, some assistance is needed: www.seatguru.com and www.seatexpert.com are websites that offer exactly that.

Both these sites give you the information you need to make the right decision when it comes to your upcoming flight.

At either site, you simply enter your flight number and the carrier and the website will find out which aircraft will be used for this flight destination; either Airbus or Boeing. A picture of the aircraft and its layout will appear on your screen. The hot seats (i.e. exit and front) flash in red to indicate that they are the seats with the most legroom. The layout also provides seat numbers and their proximity to bathrooms or to the front and back of the plane. Some seats are flagged as being in a ‘heavy traffic area,’ being narrower than the others in the cabin or offering limited reclining ability for occupants compared to others.

The sites also provide other helpful information, such as what kind of in-flight entertainment will be available. Even if you cannot choose the exit for front seats, you can be informed about the kind of aircraft you will be traveling on and the amenities you will find.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Local

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

By Nawara Fattahova

S

wimwear is the summer’s most intriguing attire. Whether it’s too revealing for a public beach or too short for a ladiesonly gym, swimsuits have a dress code of their own. Fashion, trend and price usually play a role when purchasing this cherished summer garment. Tradition, atmosphere and body curves are also a few more aspects to keep in mind.

The surrounding environment often affect the way people dress in public, and such dress codes vary from one place to another. While in the West ladies may wear topless bikinis, or even swim nude at designated beaches, such behavior is not acceptable in Kuwait and most Arab countries. And while it is normal for men to wear short, tight swimming trunks in some countries, here they wear loose swim shorts.

These differences in cultural acceptability are apparent not only between the East and the West but also within the various swimming locations in Kuwait. While it is unacceptable for women to wear revealing swimsuits at the seafront on the Gulf Road from Shuwaikh up to Messila, it is completely acceptable at other locations. In those locations where it is not acceptable, it is possible, and even expected, that a fight may break out or a group of men

will surround any woman in such an outfit.

This behavior is mostly due to the nature of the visitors to these beaches, with the majority of them being single men who are not used to such sights. Also, many of the families who frequent these beaches include veiled women swimming in their clothes along with their husbands or family members. Set in this particular context, a woman in a bikini would naturally be out of place.

Also some places with paid entrances, entertainment parks for example, are not suitable for wearing bikinis. The Aqua Park and the Messila Water Village are mostly visited by single men or Arab families accompanied by women who wear the hijab or headscarf.

Women in bikinis will attract unwanted attention and receive an uncomfortable amount of stares from the men around them. The only exception to this rule would possibly be during the very early hours of the morning when these parks are still empty.

As for the places in Kuwait where it is acceptable and even common to wear a bikini, they are frequented by Westerners or people who don’t believe that a woman in a bikini is performing a striptease for others. The most popular of these areas are sea clubs such as Shaab, Ras Al-Ardh and others, as well as hotel beaches such as those at the Marina,

Movenpick, or Hilton. These locations are the best places to freely wear bikinis as the majority of visitors are dressed in a similar manner.

For veiled women wearing hijabs or niqabs, there are special swimsuits enabling them to move freely while swimming. They are made from the same material as regular bikinis and swimsuits. These swimsuits are also suitable for playing in water parks as the material moves smoothly on slides and doesn’t hinder movement as regular clothing would. These outfits can be found in sportswear or other clothes stores, at the Salmiya souk for instance.

Regular men’s and women’s swimsuits and bikinis can be found in many places, including sportswear shops, lingerie shops, fashionable clothes stores and shopping malls. Prices for women’s swimwear, whether bikinis or swimsuits, differ according to the brand or make, ranging from less than KD 10 to more than KD 120, although men’s and children’s swimwear items are usually less expensive. The best deals can be found at the end of the summer season when items go on sale and can be bought and stored for the next summer season.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The campers with the camp director and volunteers after the inauguration of the 3-day camp yesterday.

Camp director renowned Indian film critic-director Vijayakrishnan in action with the campers while detailing the various aspects of filmmaking yesterday at United Indian School, Jleeb during the three-day summer camp organized by Thanima, Kuwait.

Ready, action...!

By Sunil Cherian

W

hen 50 children, participating in a 3-day summer camp organized at United Indian School, Jleeb, were watching Charlie Chaplin’s silent movie ‘Kid’, little did they know that they were taking a long journey. A journey through the history of world cinema by listening, watching, discussing and doing a short film on their own! That is what the campers were told - that by learning about filmmaking they would learn a mix of several art forms.

The camp, organized every summer for the past six years in Kuwait by Thanima, a popular Indian organization, is lucky this time to get Vijayakrishnan, a much-admired Indian film critic and director, as camp director.

The award-winning film personality is in Kuwait to participate in the Jeevan TV award mega show scheduled to take place today at American International

School, Maidan Hawally, in which former member of Parliament of Kuwait Dr Naser Al-Sane is one of the awardees in the “Social Service to Expats by a Citizen” category.

The camp director had a simple technique of taking children through the vast world of cinema. He combined the arts of narration, explanation and demonstration where children switched roles from spectators to actors and directors. There were comparisons between film and literature.

A shot is equal to a word. A scene, a sentence and a sequence is equal to a paragraph. The camp members, aged between 8 and 18, were given situations where they had to act out using their own creative dialogues and movements. They also discussed and critically analyzed other classic they watched: “Bicycle Thieves” and “Pather Panchali”.

Binitha Maria Thomas, a grade 5 student who acted like a pedestrian who was hit by a truck, and the third grader Gayathri Manoj, who acted like the truck, said they grew confident to act in a situation they had never foreseen.

Kuncheriya Thommichan, another youngster at the camp, said he thoroughly enjoyed watching a Chaplin movie he had never heard of.

Several volunteers are also giving their best efforts for the 3-day camp which was inaugurated by Frontline’s BP Nasar yesterday morning. Babuji Batheri welcomed the campers and Raghunathan Nair rendered the vote of thanks. Sam Painummood, Ad Thomas Panikkar and Sunil Cherian gave felicitation speeches.

Manoj Mavelikkara and Shyju Pallippuram led the session of folksongs while the campers had their break.

Sabu M Peter, coordinator of the camp, was of the opinion that a summer

camp has to be special by focusing on some topic that the campers can keep memories of. “Other than the usual songskit-drawing scenario, we are lucky enough to have an authority figure like Vijayakrishnan”. As a kid, Peter added, going for movie was a taboo.

Vijayakrishnan shared with Kuwait Times his memories and opinions on the field. “With the rapid change of time, filmmaking is no longer the monopoly of certain studio owners. Even kids can make

movies in this digital era. Earlier, moviemakers were at the mercy of film distributors, but now they are a thing of the past. Even the superstar-centered movie is a fading phenomenon. Now story and the overall presentation is overtaking the superstars”.

Not surprisingly at the camp, children turned out to be the stars!

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The evil eye

By Lisa Conrad

“S

amia gave me the evil eye when I was cleaning the chandelier and my wrist touched the bulb, right at the end of cleaning it, burning me. She had commented on how nicely it shines. She’s so jealous of everything. Even the burn looks like an eye,” recounts Layla.

Layla, like countless others, believes in the evil eye. Across the globe, human kind is divided by ethnicities, religions, beliefs and traditions.

But one factor that many cultures and peoples across the world share is some sort of belief, whether historically or in the present day, in envy attracting negative consequences toward others.

The concept of the evil eye is neither purely Middle East based nor only found in Islamic countries. Belief in the evil eye has been found in East and West Africa, Central America, South Asia and Europe.

The belief that a sly glance or a jealous heart, with or without malice, can harm others has been found worldwide as is the insistence that not only can a look bring about real, tangible consequences, but that it can also be remedied and prevented. If you’re new to Kuwait, you may have noticed certain behaviors or comments regarding the evil eye. If you’re from the region, then you’ll be accustomed with the concept. It’s an ingrained aspect of not only Kuwaiti, but also the Middle East as a whole. Here’s why.

The evil eye Belief in the evil eye has been absorbed and interpreted by many cultures. All of them, however, tend to boil it down to the same essence.

Professor Alan Dundes studied the belief across cultures in his book “The Evil Eye”, and summarized it as: “The belief that the gaze or praise of another may cause illness or even death to them or to an object of theirs”. Keeping culture in mind is vital, anywhere, and here in Kuwait and the Arab countries in general, the ‘A-OK’ symbol has a completely different meaning. When the forefinger and thumb are connected, with the other fingers up, the seemingly innocent gesture can actually indicate that you’re sending bad energy, or the evil eye, toward the recipient. Belief in the evil eye is common here, where many believe it to be an important, and dangerous, issue.

The prey of envy Hiba, a Lebanese expatriate living in Kuwait, commented: “I hate when someone compliments me without saying “Mashallah” after.

Mashallah means in God’s will, so when you repeat it you bring protection toward yourself by repeating from the Quran. Otherwise, it will bring the evil eye toward you, even if they don’t mean to. Somebody complimented my new car, I got into an accident the same evening. A comment about soft skin brings a bruise on my arm the next day. The thing that always gets me, though, are headaches.” Professor Dundes found the same effect to be reported in this interviewees regarding consequences of falling prey to the evil eye: “Most frequently the effect upon adults is a piercing headache - and this appears

over and over again in the record.” Hiba also touched on the issue of accidental envy, of which Professor Dundes said: “Occasionally people bestow the evil eye without malice. Such a person has this affliction and tries to control it, but when he sees something he envies, the eye works against his will.”

Kuwaiti national Ibrahim Adsani, manager of the AWARE centre, here in Kuwait, said: “To protect people around you, you should say mashallah when you compliment. It also implies that you’re satisfied with what you have, by blessing them and wishing the best for them. On the other hand, if something suddenly happens to you without a known cause, reciting versus from the Holy Quran can remove the effect of the evil eye.” The evil eye has a strong presence in religious scripture also. In the Holy Quran, Sura 113 says: “I seek refuge with the Lord of Dawn, from the mischief of created things, from the mischief of darkness as it overspreads, from the mischief of those who practice secret arts, and from the mischief of the envious one as he practices envy.” Similarly, in Christianity, in Matthew 20:15 it is written: “Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?”

A blue eye hanging on a chain around her neck, Syrian-English Sara added: “I didn’t grow up in the Middle East, I grew up in England and I don’t even speak Arabic, but the idea of the evil eye is something that intrigues me. Once I kept getting sick on a visit to Syria, constant colds and coughing, and my grandmother told me to lay my head on her lap so she could read from the Holy Quran and remove the evil eye that was on me. I was horrified by the idea. But she’s an old woman, what could I say? I did as she said and she read over my head for maybe 15 minutes.

When I sat up, I saw her yawn and a single tear drop from her eye. It was so odd. The next day, the cold, the coughing and the sneezing were all gone. Totally.”

This, too, is not an uncommon report, as Professor Dundes also recounted an extremely similar account of remedies for the evil eye in Syria: “Specific healers work to undo the envy afflicting them, and if the patient has fallen vic-

tim to the evil eye, the woman will yawn and her eyes will water.” Yawning is also an important part of Irish beliefs in the evil eye, where if both the healer and the victim yawn after treatment it confirms that their affliction stems from the evil eye.

Methods of prevention The color of defense against the evil eye is blue in the Middle East. Small blue beads attached to the back of necklaces, blue eye necklaces and hanging eye ornaments are all meant to protect from the envious eye etching its way into your otherwise peaceful world. Professor Dundes comments: “In (Muslim) countries, blue is considered the most potent color of protection, probably because in the same lands the blue eye is a suspect eye and therefore blue would attract the evil glance to itself.”

Sara and Hiba, however, disagree. Sara said: “Plenty of Syrians have blue eyes, so I don’t think that’s the reason. Blue is eye-catching. The idea is that as the negativity comes toward you, it’s distracted by the blue and is absorbed by the gem instead.

I wear it because it represents a strong belief in my background, it’s more of a cultural symbol.” Hiba adds, “I attach them to the back of my necklace, small blue beads. They crack and break off all the time, when I’ve gotten the evil eye multiple times, they crack from it.” Ibrahim, however, disagrees: “Those things are nonsense. It’s a myth that they will protect you. It has been carried on from the past, and some believe, but it has nothing to do with protection.”

However, in Islam, wearing such items with a genuine belief in their powers as opposed to hope from faith can be considered sinful (haram) in itself. Ibrahim explains: “I wouldn’t say that they’re committing a sin in putting on the necklace, it’s just a necklace after all. If they believe, however, that this necklace will protect or cure them instead of God, then this is a sin. Putting hope and faith into it, is a sin. However, it’s not correct to say haram about everything; there should be flexibility. If the necklace makes them comfortable, but they still have their faith in God, then it’s OK in my opinion.”

Red is the color of preference of other coun-

tries and faiths. In Europe, among both Jews and Christians, the favorite protective color is red.

Belief of the evil eye was prominent in Europe before, with both English and Scottish folklore referred to ‘overlooking’, or casting an envious glance over another. Tanya, a Bulgarian expatriate, recounted a story her mother told her: “When I was born, everyone kept commenting on what a beautiful baby I was. I got extremely sick and stayed in the hospital for months as a newborn, and the doctor came to my mother and told her to tie a red thread around my wrist to ward off evil. She did as he said, and we left the hospital shortly after.”

Precautions, such as blue beads and red bands, are used to protect from the evil eye, and in the Middle East another popular symbol is The Hand, or Khamsa. An upside down hand often with an eye in the palm, it is believed to ward off the evil eye and represents divine power and generosity. The five fingers of the hand also relate to the five pillars of Islam and the five senses.

Differing opinions Whether or not the evil eye is believed in specifically, the issue of envy and reactions to it are universal. The psychological side of things sheds light on how humans react to, and interpret envy. Psychologist Marcel Zeelenberg conducted a study, “Warding off the Evil Eye” of how people act if they believe they are in the company of someone envious. He found that when his participants were in the company of someone they sensed envied them, they would make an effort to appease them by offering them additional advice and helping them with tasks “in an attempt to ward off the potentially destructive effects of envy”.

“The concept of the evil eye is a phenomenon very difficult to explain. People are divided into three groups on it. One deny it, saying it’s not true or scientific. They insist on a physical explanation if they are to believe in something. The next group believe it’s the cause of everything, and use it to explain any negative events. They use it as a hanger, hanging every problem on it.

The third group, which is correct, believe in it but they don’t believe that everything is caused by an evil eye.”

Interviewees who reported a strong belief in the evil eye were very defensive of their view.

Hiba said: “People, especially Westerners, think the idea of the evil eye is ridiculous. But didn’t millions of people rush out and buy “The Secret”, which is all to do with bringing positive energy toward yourself? What’s the difference between attracting positive energy and deflecting negative energy?” Sara added: “I didn’t believe in it to begin with. I do now because of an experience that I can’t describe with logic. I do believe in it in terms of positive and negative energy.” Similarly, Ibrahim adds: “It’s well integrated in the culture.

Someone from outside the culture would say it’s nonsense, but it’s part of the culture and people do believe in it.” lisa@kuwaittimes.net

Drive Now. Talk Later.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Evolving situation in the

By Jamie Etheridge KUWAIT: Seven startling months have passed since unexpected protests in Tunisia led to the ouster of Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali and the start of what has become known as the ‘Arab Spring.’

Without going into a discussion about the misnomer, it seems worthwhile to examine each of the places where protests have occurred, are occurring or might come in the near term.

Since December mass protests have led to the military-sanctioned ouster of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, the devolution of Libyan protests into fullscale civil war, a Saudi-led military intervention in Bahrain, a brutal Syrian crackdown - and the first inklings of real trouble for the Syrian regime - and the flight (into as-yet undeclared exile) of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh to Saudi Arabia. The period of uncertainty continues. It remains far from clear how the crises in each of the states currently experiencing turmoil will play out. But the summer months will bring with them some interesting developments.

Here’s an analysis and forecast of what is most likely.

The Gulf: Summer calm The Gulf states reacted immediately with a range of social and economic measures aimed at quelling any simmering dissent.

Bahrain remains the outlier and trouble hotspot in the region. The underlying political dispute between the ruling Sunni government and the country’s Shiite majority remains unresolved and clashes between the two sides will continue to break out throughout the summer and into the fall, even with the so-called national dialogue underway. A political compromise put forward by the government may attract some support but without a greater power-sharing deal, will not put an end to the tension. Iran will also continue to seek means to encourage the rejection of any compromise with the Sunni leadership.

Kuwait’s political infighting hit a new low with a dispute between the prime minister and powerful deputy premier breaking out into the open a few months back. With the parliament closed for summer, things should cool down a bit and Kuwait will likely be quiet until the National Assembly resumes following the Eid holiday in the fall.

Saudi Arabia’s multifaceted approach to quelling any and all dissent seems to be working, with only secondary concerns like women’s driving garnering support or attention. Maneuvers to reduce dependence upon foreign labor, though, if actually implemented, could have a crippling effect on the economy in the short to midterm and could create an entire population of disenfranchised business owners inside the kingdom.

Again the timing of the summer holidays will help ease any tensions in the short term.

Stability will continue in UAE, Qatar but in Oman more protests are a possibility as economic and political reforms fail to meet the expectations of protestors in secondary cities like Sohar.

The internal power struggle between Khamenei and Ahmadinejad comes at a bad time for Iran.

Enjoying a historic opportunity to further its regional ambitions and agenda in Iraq, the GCC and the Levant, Tehran is now mired in an internal fight between the executive and religious leadership that will take months to play out. This in turn will impact Iran’s foreign policy and especially its power projection in Syria, Iraq and Bahrain.

Iraq, meanwhile, remains mired in its internal political and security difficulties and despite some headway in oil development and increased security will see little improvement on the political or economic side for the short term. Midterm, a political compromise among the various groups and reduced interference from Iran may lead to some progress on the political front, greater security and economic growth.

Yemen’s long-serving leader Ali Abdullah Saleh has fled to Saudi with his family and is unlikely to

Middle East

of the states. Lebanon, Jordan and Israel - not Kuwait’s political infighting hit a new low with a dispute between the rest to mention Iraq and Turkey - are greatly concerned prime minister and powerful deputy premier breaking out into the open with the possible outcomes of the Syrian uprising.

The focus on Syria and the fear generated for many a few months back. With the parliament closed for summer, things groups about the uncertainty of the outcome has leaders’ push for calm and quiet in the should cool down a bit and Kuwait will likely be quiet until the National encouraged other states, especially in Lebanon.

• The key to the Assad regime in Syria Assembly resumes following the Eid holiday in the fall.

remains 1) cohesiveness among the Alawites, 2) continued support from the security forces, and 3) unity among the Baath party leadership and (though less important) the rich merchant class in Damascus. Until now, it seems that the key pillars of the Assad regime remain in place and until cracks appear in one of the three, the regime will be able to hold onto power despite pressure from Turkey and others. Also, the US and Israel do not seem overeager to replace Assad with an unknown, especially Muslim Brotherhood government, and therefore are not applying too much pressure. The key will be the

•

BENGHAZI: Tens of thousands of Libyans attend a mass rally on Wednesday, hoping to bolster rebel morale in this rebel stronghold and send a message to Tripoli. — AFP return. Now the question will be how will a transition play out? Will his sons/nephew relinquish their control of the intelligence service/Republican Guard and flee too, or will they continue to try to hold onto some form of power? How will the opposition divide up power if and when the rest of Saleh’s regime flees? The next few weeks will be critical for deciding Yemen’s short-term political fate. Economically, the country remains impoverished and a political transition won’t affect this at least in the midterm.

•

•

• •

•

•

North Africa: A long, slow transition The leaders of other North African states like Morocco and Algeria have maintained calm by applying a carrot-and-stick approach, offering limited economic and political reforms while also stepping up security measures.

Egypt will take months and months - if not years - to achieve full transition, and transition won’t be smooth or violence-free. The Egyptian military continues to support plans for parliamentary and presidential elections in the fall and these will be key - both to determining the direction of the future government and to identifying key power players in the midterm. How effective any new government will be remains wholly untested, however, and how willing the military will be to step back from power and allow a civilian government to take control remains unclear. Already, the military has set up a Facebook page offering up four ex-officers as potential presidential candidates. It is unlikely to concede power and let a completely civilian-controlled government take the helm in the fall. Meanwhile, confidence in the Egyptian economy will continue to be undermined and infusions of cash from the Gulf won’t overcome the pressure from the slowdown in tourism receipts and other foreign investments.

Until the government is decided and it’s clear how the military will react, FDI will remain limited.

The Western coalition supporting Libya’s rebels in Benghazi has stepped up measures to find a way to get rid of Gaddafi. Additional defections among top government officials will further erode his support within the country and moves to tighten his access to cash abroad will also eat

•

•

•

•

•

away at his firepower. All indicators suggest, however, that he won’t accept exile, and a fight to the ‘death’ seems necessary. This will translate into more bloody conflict, especially as the coalition and rebels step up the pressure in Tripoli and other tightly held Gaddafi cities. Do not expect a resolution to the Libya conflict in the short term and even if Gaddafi should be killed or ousted, infighting among the rebels and the East-West split among tribes will translate into months of negotiations before any substantive government could be formulated.

Tunisia has managed the transition remarkably swiftly and mostly peacefully and is now on the path of rebuilding the government and economy. This process will continue with hiccups for the short to midterm. Everyone, from student associations to teachers’ unions to taxi drivers, is jostling for a better economic or political position and this will continue to play out.

Morocco has managed quite successfully - so far - to maintain mostly calm. Rabat has moved to create a constitution and offered up political reform as a means of quelling dissent.

Increasingly brutal crackdowns on protests, however, will only further enrage demonstrators and ratchet up rather than discourage future protests. How real and substantive the political reforms are will be key to Morocco’s short to midterm stability. If the reforms are deemed substantive and satisfy some of the protestors’ demands, support for demonstrations could wane - especially as Morocco relies heavily on tourism revenue and unrest discourages tourism. But the economic questions will remain and with it the potential for trouble.

Algeria’s unusual calm is odd, but may be a combination of the fatigue citizens still reeling from the country’s long running war with Islamist militants and the slight economic improvements have seen since the return to full oil production/export. Even so, the government has promised political reforms and has eased some economic levers so as to further encourage business.

The Levant: The complexity of revolt In the Levant, the crisis in Syria has riveted the

•

• •

three pillars and how long they can remain intact even as the outlying areas grow more restive. Will Turkey begin supporting the opposition? This is something worth watching out for as a distinct possibility. Another key will be the economy - already Damascus and other cities are suffering from the loss of tourism and business has all but collapsed in the country...how long the Alawites can hold onto power without revenue streams remains a major concern.

Jordan: The government continues to promise greater political reform and economic benefits.

So far people are willing to wait and see. But as the summer comes, tourism to Jordan will be a key factor in injecting foreign cash into the economy. A significant loss of tourism receipts could dramatically impact the economic situation and thus the country’s political stability in the short term.

Lebanon: The various political groups are mostly waiting to see what will happen in Syria. Hezbollah is especially concerned and will limit unrest at home in order to free up support for Assad in Damascus.

Israel and the Palestinians: The key to conflict now will be what happens in the UN in September and if the Palestinians can get a declaration of statehood. You might see the Israelis trying to provoke fighting in the West Bank as a way of tarnishing the statehood attempt but a growing movement inside Israel also supports the two-state solution and as Egypt reduces pressure on Gaza by opening the Rafah crossing, Israel will be looking for political levers in the US and Europe to shut down the Palestinian statehood efforts.

Forecast Uncertainty will continue in the short term, combining with the intense summer heat and the traditional vacation/holiday season, to hamper business in the Gulf and discourage tourism to the Levant and North Africa (although Dubai will enjoy the benefits of trouble elsewhere as Khaleejis and expats in the Gulf avoid the Levant and North Africa and instead holiday in the UAE).

The key event for the summer will be drastic shifts in the situation in Libya and Syria - with either or both of the regimes overthrown or expelled.

Other areas to watch are Morocco and Yemen’s post-Saleh transition efforts.

Another point worth noting is that Ramadan will be in August this year, which means that despite the typical slowdown of the summer months, protesters who are now going to the mosques only on Fridays and getting revved up for demonstrations will be going every day during Ramadan. This could translate into daily, rather than weekly, protests which would quickly add an element of urgency to the situation in places like Syria and Jordan.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

News

in brief

DGCA approves winter schedules KUWAIT: The 2011-12 winter season operating schedules for airlines operating from Kuwait International Airport (KIA) were yesterday officially approved by the Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGCA). Sultan AlShwai’e, the DGCA’s supervisor of air transport flight operations, revealed that the directorate has approved the winter flight schedules whilst participating in the 128th Schedules Conference in Gutenberg in Sweden.

The biannual conference is the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) largest event. The goal of the conference is for airlines and airports to agree on the slots that will provide them with the best possible schedules to offer their customers. More than 45 aviation companies will be operating flights to and from KIA in the upcoming winter season, which begins on October 30 and runs until until March 24, connecting Kuwait with 150 international airports, Al-Shwai’e added.

Travelers should abide by Saudi laws RIYADH: Kuwaiti Charge d’Affairs in Riyadh Theyab AlResheedi urged travelers to Saudi Arabia to abide by the country’s laws and traffic instructions to enjoy a pleasant summer vacation. Speaking to KUNA yesterday, AlRasheedi said that the Kuwaiti embassy advised Kuwaiti travelers to ensure the safety of their vehicles to avoid road accidents. He pointed out that the Kuwaiti embassy in Saudi follows on a daily basis unfortunate traffic accidents, which result in serious injuries or even death. The Kuwaiti Foreign Afairs Ministry and the Kuwaiti embassy express concern over the Kuwaiti travelers’ well-being, wishing them a safe return back home, he noted. He added the Kuwaiti embassy is ready to help its citizens in case of any emergencies.

Tourists to Spain told to mind procedures MADRID: It is of great importance that Kuwaitis visiting Spain mind procedures and keep apprised of the embassy’s recommendations to enable embassy staff to serve them and facilitate an enjoyable stay for their summer holiday. Second Secretary at the embassy and official responsible for the affairs of Kuwaiti citizens in southern Spain Mishari Al-Naibari told KUNA the embassy has opened an office in the town of Torremolinos, located in the Spanish region of Andalucia on the Costa del Sol that would receive Kuwaitis requiring help till mid-August. He added several meetings had been held with heads of police stations and townships as well as with airport officials to guarantee best service and orientation for Kuwaitis to enable them to enjoy cultural activities and glimpses of Spain’s history and attractions. He noted a cultural festival is to be held Sunday in coastal Mijas town for the benefit of Kuwaiti tourists in the region. It would include exhibitions, cultural activities, and tours with Kuwaiti and Spanish personalities attending.

KFSD warns shops over safety breaches KUWAIT: An unannounced safety inspection of shops in Mubarakiya Market by Kuwait Fire Service Directorate (KFSD) personnel resulted in citations being issued to 51 outlets there. In a press release issued to announce the results of the campaign, Colonel Khalid Al-Azmi, the head of the KFSD’s Coordination and Monitoring Department, said that the violations discovered included poor storage, blocking or closure of emergency exits, lack of maintenance of firefighting equipment, expired KFSD safety licenses and uncovered electrical wires. Col Al-Azmi explained that the shop owners were given an ultimatum to rectify the various violations within a set time period or face punitive legal action, including possible closure of their outlets. He added that the fire service will continue to launch regular unannounced inspections across the country in order to help achieve the highest possible levels of public safety and to minimize the risks of fires breaking out.

KUWAIT: A 22-kilogram hamour (grouper) is seen at the fish market yesterday. A local favorite, hamour features in several traditional Kuwaiti dishes. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Drunk pilot has wings clipped One dead, 27 hurt in road accidents KUWAIT: The Kuwaiti pilot of a flight arriving from Dubai was recently arrested for intoxication, insulting customs officers and refusing to have his luggage inspected.

According to a security insider, passengers on the flight reported that the pilot sounded unstable during the flight. When customs officials at the airport requested permission to inspect his luggage, the pilot refused, reportedly shouting at them, “Step away or I’ll step on your stars,” a reference to the shoulder epaulettes on the officers’ uniforms. The pilot was taken into custody to sober up.

Separately, an Asian man was killed and 23 other Asian people sustained various injuries when the bus carrying them smashed headfirst into a truck on Wafra Highway yesterday. The injured were rushed to Adan and Mubarak Al-Kabeer hospitals, whilst the body of the deceased man was removed for autopsy. In a separate incident, three Saudi boys aged 16, 17 and 18, were taken to Jahra Hospital after sustaining various injuries, including fractures, when their car turned over on Salmi Highway. Meanwhile, a 47-year-old Egyptian man suffered spinal injuries when he was hit by a speeding car in Jahra. The man was rushed to Jahra Hospital.

Love rivals brawl A rivalry between two young men over the affections of a beautiful neighbor resulted in a punch-up between the two, each of whom insisted that the young woman was in love with himself, with the brawl near their homes in Salmiya subsequently spreading to include other members of the

youths’ families. Police intervened to break up the brawl, with all those involved being taken to the local police station. After cooling down, the shamefaced brawlers signed undertakings promising not to get involved in similar scuffles in the future. The young lady’s reaction to her admirers’ antics was not recorded.

Cases dismissed A lawyer who attempted to dissuade a traffic officer from ticketing his car by reciting the relevant legislation lost his case, with the disgruntled officer responding to the attorney’s lecture with a citation.

Meanwhile, a senior Ministry of Interior (MoI) official also failed to be deterred by the pleas of a driver, this time a young actress, who had parked her car outside a local pizza restaurant whilst she ordered food, blocking the road to all other traffic.

The official, who was out with his family, was not swayed by the young thespian’s pleas and she received a traffic citation along with her pizza.

Mall trouble Four young women - two Kuwaitis and two expatriates - and a Kuwaiti transvestite were arrested for reckless driving, obstructing justice and insulting police officers performing their duties. The group of five were in a car in the area behind a Salmiya mall when patrol officers noticed that the vehicle was being driven erratically. When the officers approached the car and asked for the occupants’ ID cards, one of the young Kuwaiti women shouted at them, “I’ll get you dismissed, along with your bosses...I’ll

have your citizenship withdrawn.” The five, who were subsequently discovered to be drunk, were taken into custody to cool off.

KIA smokers penalized Two Kuwaitis and an expatriate were arrested at Kuwait International Airport for smoking outside the designated booth, with the whole airport, other than the sealed booth, being an entirely no-smoking zone. The arrests came as part of a strict crackdown on all smoking at the airport ordered by KIA security director Anwar AlYassin, who instructed that any smokers found smoking outside the designated booth provided, no matter what their rank or position, should be arrested and take to Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh police station to face charges.

Cell fight A Central Prison inmate broke his cellmate’s nose in a fight that broke out for unknown reasons. A security insider said that a case had been filed and an investigation is underway to determine the cause of the fracas.

Unlucky 13 Thirteen illegal residents, all Asian, were arrested in Fahaheel thanks to one of the group who, after being beaten up by the others, took revenge by informing police who intervened to break up the fight of his assailants’ illegal status. His attempts to demand that he be released in return for informing on the others were, however, unsuccessful, with all 13 being referred for deportation.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Local

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

In the

news

MEW’s Khairan power station project cancelled KUWAIT: The Ministry of Electricity and Water (MEW) announced on Wednesday that the cabinet has cancelled the construction of a new electricity substation in Khairan, which was set to produce an additional 500 megawatts of power. Khalid Al-Rifaie, the Assistant Director of the MEW’s Public Relations and Media department, revealed that the decision to cancel the project was taken following consultation between senior MEW officials and members of the relevant parliamentary committee.

MoI official receives new PhD graduate KUWAIT: A senior Ministry of Interior (MoI) official yesterday received a Kuwaiti graduate to congratulate her on attaining her doctorate. During the meeting with Lt Gen Yousef Abdullah Al-Saoudi, the Director of the MoI’s General Investigations Department, Dr Fatima Suleiman Al-Khalifa, who recently graduated from Cairo University, presented the official with a copy of her doctoral thesis on legal protection in relation to public conduct.

MoJ working on law to ban human trafficking KUWAIT: The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) and a number of specialist bodies are working on a draft law to implement existing protocols and agreements on outlawing human trafficking. Once completed, the bill, which is based on UN principles, will be submitted to the parliament for approval, said MoJ Undersecretary Abdulaziz Al-Majed yesterday.

Al-Majed, who headed the Kuwaiti delegation attending the recent 50th annual convention of the Asian African Legal Consultative Organization (AALCO) which took place this year in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo, between June 26 and July 1, told KUNA that the organization plays a vital role, regionally and internationally, regarding the issue of human trafficking.

AALCO’s agenda highlighted a number of legal issues and reality on the ground concerning human trafficking, which in turn called for reevaluating the issue and carefully studying its effects, particularly in the AALCO member countries, including the issue in the Palestinian occupied territories. In his speech at the event, the Kuwaiti official noted the right of all peoples to self-determination, particularly focusing on Palestinian rights and the declaration of their own independent sovereign state. Al-Majed also called for further bolstering peace and security for the people of the Middle East region. — KUNA

DOHA: His Highness the Prime Minister of Kuwait Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah yesterday met with the Deputy Amir and Crown Prince of Qatar Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani at the Amiri Diwan. The Prime Minister extended to his Qatari host the greetings of HH the Amir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, HH the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people. During the meeting, the two senior officials discussed bilateral relations, the latest endeavors of the Gulf Cooperation Council, the most recent regional and international developments, and the two countries’ positions towards them.

Bahrain PM welcomes Sheikh Nasser’s visit ‘Deep-rooted, brotherly’ ties hailed MANAMA: Bahrain’s Prime Minister Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa said yesterday that his country and Kuwait are united by deep-rooted and brotherly ties that both make their relationship, a model for integration and work to their mutual benefit. Prince Khalifa was speaking ahead of the arrival in Bahrain of his Kuwaiti counterpart Sheikh Nasser Al-Mohammed Al-Sabah on an official visit. Talks between the two countries aim to support cooperation in all fields in both the private and public sector, and to further open up channels to achieve this, he said.

The Bahraini premier expressed Bahrain’s gratitude for Kuwait’s position on its security and stability, while hailing Kuwait’s contributions to Bahraini development, and its support of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Arab

MCI cautions against phony sales, discounts KUWAIT: Kuwait’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) has cautioned shoppers against being deceived by fraudulent ‘sales’ and special offers by local retailers, revealing that a total of 186 fraud cases have been reported so far this summer.

In a press release issued on Wednesday, the ministry voiced disappointment at the number of shops, malls and other outlets falsely advertising sales and special offers which turn out to be offering goods at the normal prices. The MCI warned that its inspectors are making unscheduled plain-

clothes visits to all outlets and are on the lookout for these illegal practices.

The ministry said it was seeking to protect consumers so that they would not easily fall prey to retailers violating trading regulations, vowing that it would take legal action against all those found to be doing so. MCI inspectors are visiting retailers across the country regularly to ensure that any attempts to subvert trading regulations are quickly spotted and the perpetrators prosecuted, the statement warned. — KUNA

joint efforts. He said Bahrain would stand side by side with Kuwait and the other GCC States in seeking to enact the role of the Gulf union in a fast-moving world. Bahrain is also keen on coordination and discussing the developments and changes in regional and international affairs as a way to enhance regional security and stability, along with tackling challenges that threaten to undermine this stability, Prince Khalifa added.

Meanwhile, the Kuwaiti Ambassador to Bahrain Sheikh Azzam Mubarak AlSabah affirmed yesterday that the premier’s visit to Bahrain embodies the close “brotherly connections” between the two nations. The Kuwaiti ambassador said that the deep-rooted bilateral ties between Kuwait and Bahrain are based on mutual support and coopera-

tion to achieve the best interests of both countries.

Ambassador Sheikh Azzam Mubarak said that Kuwaiti-Bahraini relations have been growing ever-stronger as the years have passed, referring specifically to the 1990-91 Iraqi invasion and occupation of Kuwait and the recent Bahraini political unrest.

The Kuwaiti premier’s visit has gained even greater significance due to the turbulent events in Gulf and Arab nations in recent months, added the diplomat, stressing the urgency of unifying all nations’ efforts to achieve stability in the region. The ambassador added that Sheikh Nasser AlMohammed’s visit would also help to further increase understanding and coordination between the two countries in all fields. —KUNA

‘Cultural Summer’ festival begins KUWAIT: The sixth season of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters’ (NCCAL) Summer Culture Festival got underway on Wednesday evening with the performance of a new play, ‘Ice Town,’ at Shamiya Theater. The play, directed by Mohammed Al-Hmeli, who was also amongst the cast members on Wednesday evening, tackles the thorny issues of money power, focusing on how high a priority the attainment of these things is in people’s lives. Other actors in

the well-received debut play included Ahlam Hassan, Ahmad Iraj and Zena Karam. The NCCAL is also hosting a panel discussion next Tuesday to debate the reasons behind the waning appeal of theater generally with contemporary audiences. A number of prominent Kuwaiti cultural figures will be participating in the panel discussion, including Abdul-Suttar Nadji, Mohammad Al-Rshood, Dr. Nader Al-Qannah, Bader Mohared and Mefreh Al-Shemmari.— KUNA

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Mother cleared of murder gets jail term for lying

15

Sudan’s Bashir warns rebels ahead of secession

16

38 dead in India as train smashes into wedding bus

17

Saleh makes first appearance after attack

DUBAI: Yemen’s President Ali Abdullah Saleh said in a television interview broadcast yesterday that he welcomed power sharing as long as it was within the country’s constitutional framework.

Saleh, who had not been seen in public since an assassination attempt on him last month, showed signs of burns to his face and had heavily bandaged arms and hands in the pre-recorded interview on Yemen TV. “We welcome the sharing within the framework of the constitution and in the framework of the law,” Saleh said. Saleh is recovering in Riyadh from a bomb attack at his compound. Some diplomats have said there is a slim chance Saleh could return to Yemen, facing a severe political impasse after months of protests demanding his ouster. —Reuters

RIYADH: An image grab taken from Yemen’s state television shows Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh delivering a televised speech from the Saudi capital yesterday as he appeared in public for the first time since he was wounded in an explosion at his palace in Sanaa last month. (Inset) Photo shows President Ali Abdullah Saleh before the explosion. — AFP

Rebels target Tripoli GUALISH: Rebels battling Muammar Gaddafi pressed ahead yesterday with day two of a NATObacked offensive after seizing a desert hamlet south of Tripoli and reported gains in their push along the coast from the east. NATO said the rebels appear to have taken the initiative in the west, but Gaddafi ‘s forces are regrouping and rearming. Reinforced with French weapons parachuted into Libya and backed

by NATO-led air strikes aimed at destroying Gaddafi ‘s frontline armor, the rebels attacked regime forces in the plains southwest of the capital. The area targeted by that offensive is seen as strategic as it also features the garrison city of Gharyan, a government stronghold in the Nafusa mountains.

“We waited before launching this assault and finally got the green light from NATO... and the offensive began,” a rebel leader in Zintan, a hill town, said on Wednesday. An AFP correspondent embedded with the rebels said there were intense exchanges of artillery, mortar and cannon fire with government troops dug in around Gualish. Several African mercenaries fighting alongside Gaddafi forces were captured. NATO listed seven targets where Gaddafi ‘s military equipment had been attacked, including eight armored vehicles and military refueling equipment

near the eastern oil town of Brega. An anti-aircraft gun had also been destroyed near Gharyan where, earlier this week, four tanks were destroyed. Eight armed vehicles were also hit in the Zlitan area. At the same time, insurgents said forces from their western coastal enclave of Misrata had pushed to within a short distance of Zlitan, some 60 kilometres (36 miles) further west, with 20 killed on both sides.

In the rebel stronghold of Benghazi, an official statement said “ten of our martyrs were killed and 59 others wounded” on Wednesday in clashes with Gaddafi loyalists in the push on Zlitan. Ten Gaddafi fighters were also killed, the statement added, saying others had fled. They abandoned a school used as a weapons depot, and an “enormous amount” of munitions, heavy weapons and military vehicles was captured. Wing Commander Mike Bracken, the NATO mission’s military spokesman, said “anti-Gaddafi forces look to have the initiative and are able to launch successful attacks against pro-Gaddafi forces.”

But Gaddafi forces still hold two cities west of Tripoli, Zawiyah and Zuwarah, and are “rearming, regrouping and fighting in places such as Kikla, Misrata and Dafnia,” he added via video link from NATO operational headquarters in Naples, Italy. — AFP

News of the World to shut: Murdoch LONDON: Britain’s News of the World tabloid will print its last ever edition on Sunday following a scandal over phone hacking, owner Rupert Murdoch’s son James Murdoch said yesterday. “Having consulted senior colleagues, I have decided that we must take further decisive action with respect to the paper. This Sunday will be the last issue of the News of the World,” Murdoch, the chairman of News International, said in a statement.

He said that if allegations that a private investigator working for the 168-year-old Sunday tabloid hacked the voicemail of a teenage girl who was later found murdered were true, they were “inhuman”. “The News of the World is in the business of holding

others to account. But it failed when it came to itself,” he added. “Wrongdoers turned a good newsroom bad and this was not fully understood or adequately pursued.” James Murdoch said the conviction in 2007 for phone hacking of the paper’s royal correspondent Clive Goodman and private investigator Glenn Mulcaire had failed to cure the problem. “The News of the World and News International failed to get to the bottom of repeated wrongdoing that occurred without conscience or legitimate purpose.” He added that any advertising space in the final edition would be donated “to causes and charities that wish to expose their good works to our millions of readers.”— AP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

International

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Israel deploys airport police to screen activists JERUSALEM: Israel deployed hundreds of extra police at its already heavily guarded international airport yesterday and asked European airlines to bar potential troublemakers from Tel Aviv-bound flights in anticipation of the arrival of hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists. In Paris, eight activists were blocked from boarding a Malev Airlines flight yesterday. One of those turned away, Philippe Arnaud, said Malev showed him a list provided by Israeli authorities of nearly 400 people being barred from Israel. German carriers Lufthansa and Air Berlin said they also received lists.

The activists, expected to arrive in Israel late yesterday and today, say they are on a peaceful mission to the West Bank to draw attention to the plight of Palestinians living under Israeli occupation. Israel holds complete control over who enters and exits the

West Bank. But Israel has been wary of entanglement with foreign activists since Israeli naval commandos clashed with passengers aboard an international Gazabound flotilla last year, killing nine people.

Israeli concerns were further heightened by deadly clashes in recent weeks with proPalestinian activists along its frontiers with Lebanon and Syria.

Police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said officers deployed at Tel Aviv’s Ben-Gurion International Airport have been prepared to deal with scenarios ranging from uneventful landings to airport officials being attacked. Israel is known for its strict airline security, beginning with check-ins on incoming flights, and officials claim they have sophisticated intelligence procedures in place to identify potential troublemakers. It’s unclear how many activists would be denied entry after landing at the airport.

Syrians block streets with burning tires BEIRUT: Residents in the Syrian city of Hama blocked streets with burning tires yesterday to keep out busloads of security forces, and dozens of families fled to a nearby town, an activist and a resident said. The city, scene of a 1982 massacre which came to symbolize the ruthless rule of the late President Hafez al-Assad, has seen some of the biggest protests in 14 weeks of demonstrations against his son Bashar.

Rami Abdelrahman of the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said two buses full of Syrian intelligence forces and police tried to enter Hama from the north and four buses from the east. A Hama resident said up to 14 buses had entered the northern quarters of the city and reported that security forces were firing in residential areas. The reports could not be immediately confirmed. Syria has barred most independent media from the country, making it difficult to verify accounts from activists or authorities. “(Security forces) tried to enter Hama, but residents burnt tires in the roads to prevent them from entering,” Abdelrahman said, adding that 100 families have fled from Hama to the neighboring city of Salamiyah, about 50 km (30 miles) away.

The private Al-Watan newspaper said yesterday a parliamentary election due in August would be postponed to allow parliament to pass new laws on the media and political parties, part of a package of reforms which Assad has pledged in response to the unrest. The president raised the possibility of delaying the election in a speech last month in which he set out plans for a national dialogue with the opposition.

Opposition figures say they will not talk while waves of killings and arrests continue.

Tanks deployed around the outskirts of Hama this week after tens of thousands of people rallied in a central square today demanding Assad’s downfall, the culmination of a month of escalating protests in the city. Protesters were exploiting an apparent security vacuum in the city after Assad’s forces pulled back from Hama following the killing of at least 60 protesters on June 3.

Assad sacked the Hama provincial governor tomorrow.

Security forces swept in on Monday and activists say at least 26 people have been killed in a wave of arrests and shootings, but the tanks have stayed outside the city. The official Syrian news agency said on Wednesday one policeman was killed in a clash with armed groups who shot at security forces and threw petrol and nail bombs. It did not mention civilian deaths but said some “armed men” were injured.

“There are still a lot of military vehicles and tanks in front of the city,” said Ammar Qurabi, Cairo-based head of the Syrian National Human Rights Organization. “The people inside Hama are still scared of a sudden step (by Syrian forces). Water and electricity are still cut.” Assad’s father, Hafez al-Assad, who ruled Syria for 30 years until his death in 2000, sent troops into Hama in 1982 to crush an Islamist-led uprising in the city. That attack killed many thousands, possibly up to 30,000. —Reuters

Israel says it will not stop people because of their political beliefs, but that its only concern is to stop people who plan to carry out illegal or violent acts. Rosenfeld said airport facilities could hold as many as 80 detainees, and that any overflow would be sent to a prison in southern Israel.

The airborne activists, meanwhile, have denied any direct connection with the latest attempt to breach the Gaza blockade, which appears to have largely fizzled in recent days. The flotilla ships were held up by mysterious malfunctions and Greek authorities who did not let them set sail from ports in Greece where the ships had mustered. Organizers of the flights to Tel Aviv say their people will tour the West Bank in solidarity with the Palestinians and that some would take part in weekly protests against Israel in east Jerusalem and the West Bank. They say all their activi-

ties will be nonviolent. In Europe, German federal police said as long as passengers had valid tickets and passports, they had no grounds to stop any activists at airports there. Two German airlines, flagship carrier Lufthansa and Air Berlin, said yesterday they received lists of people from Israel who are not allowed into the country.

Lufthansa said it would comply. Lufthansa “is obliged not to transport any passengers who do not hold valid entry permits or whose entry into the respective state has been denied by local authorities beforehand as in this case,” company spokesman Patrick Meschenmoser said yesterday. He declined to say how many passengers were on the list, or whether any of them had planned to fly with the airline. German authorities also said that German citizens of Palestinian descent would not be allowed into Israel. —AP

Yemen VP presents new transition plan: Saleh stays SANAA/ADEN: Yemen’s acting leader has put forward a new plan to end the country’s political stalemate, which would keep President Ali Abdullah Saleh in power longer than outlined in earlier initiatives, an opposition source said yesterday. President Ali Abdullah Saleh, who flew to neighbouring Saudi Arabia last month after an assassination attempt, has exasperated tens of thousands of Yemenis by hanging on to power despite international pressure and six months of protests against his 33-year rule.

A Gulf Arab initiative that would have seen Saleh resign 30 days after signing it fell through three times when he backed out at the last minute, leaving the country in political limbo. An opposition leader said Vice President AbdRabbu Mansour Hadi, who is at the helm while Saleh recovers in Riyadh, had approached the opposition with an alternative to the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) initiative. “The essence of these ideas is to begin the transitional period by forming one national government led by the opposition and changing the date of presidential elections from 60 days to a longer period, without transferring power completely to the vice president,” said the opposition figure, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity after the meeting with Hadi. The new plan is a step backward for the opposition, which had hoped Saleh’s time was up when he left the country to get medical treatment after a bomb exploded in his presidential palace. But while veteran leaders in Egypt and Tunisia have bowed to popular demands they quit, Saleh has proved a shrewd political survivor. A second senior opposition member said they would not back down: “We are prepared to deal positively with the initiative on the condition that power is transferred to the vice president first”. Hadi said this would be difficult. A speech recorded by Saleh, who has not been seen since the attack, will be broadcast “within hours”, the defense ministry website said.

Messages have not materialized after previous such reports.

At least 10 soldiers were killed in a fresh attack by militants on an army base near the southern town of Zinjibar, where a brigade has been trapped for more than a month. A local official said militants had started shelling the base late on Wednesday. Yemen’s south has descended into bloodshed in recent months, with Islamist militants suspected of links to Al-Qaeda seizing two cities in the flashpoint province of Abyan, including Zinjibar, its capital.

Western powers and oil giant Saudi Arabia fear al Qaeda is exploiting the security vacuum in Yemen, from which it has previously launched failed attacks

Qaeda, accuse him of letting militants get the upper hand to convince the United States and Saudi Arabia only he can prevent an Islamist militant takeover.

A military official told Yemen’s state news agency yesterday the army had dealt a blow to al Qaeda, killing two prominent members of the organization in the Zinjibar area. Earlier, the official said a military commander of al Qaeda’s Yemen wing, Abu Khalid al-Asiri, was among 40 militants killed by armed forces in Abyan on Monday. In protest hubs such as the capital Sanaa and the industrial city of Taiz, a tense standoff

SANAA: Protesters throw a Yemeni soldier into the air to be caught again during an anti-government demonstration demanding the resignation of Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh in Sanaa, Yemen yesterday.—AP against the United States and a Saudi government minister. Separately, unidentified gunmen stopped a vehicle carrying soldiers and civilians to the city of Lawdar, also in Abyan, and shot dead 10 soldiers after finding their military IDs, local residents said. Opponents of Saleh, who earned US backing by portraying himself as a partner against Al-

prevails between Saleh loyalists and armed tribesmen who have appointed themselves to defend protesters.

There are signs the uneasy calm may not hold indefinitely. Two soldiers were killed and five others wounded in Taiz in clashes late on Wednesday with armed militia loyal to the opposition, the state news agency reported. — Reuters

y

A

15

e niv rsar n

Years

International

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Canada ends Afghan combat mission 2,850 Canadian troops withdrawn

FLORIDA: Casey Anthony smiles before the start of her sentencing hearing in Orlando, Florida yesterday.—AP

Mother cleared of murder gets jail term for lying FLORIDA: Casey Anthony, a Florida woman found not guilty of murdering her 2-year-old daughter, was sentenced yesterday to four years in jail for lying to police after the girl disappeared. Anthony, 25, was acquitted of murder on Tuesday, to the surprise of many legal analysts and TV pundits after a televised trial that had gripped many Americans.

The judge said that after credit for time served in the years since her daughter Caylee’s death in 2008 she could be free by late this month or early August. She received the toughest possible sentence for lying to police during the investigation.

Each of the four misdemeanor counts she was convicted of carried a maximum of one year in jail. Judge Belvin Perry ordered the one-year terms to run consecutively and imposed a $1,000 fine for each count.

In addition to receiving credit for the nearly three years she has spent behind bars since her arrest, Anthony also will get time off for good behavior. The court was to announce later the exact time she would serve. Prosecutors had planned to seek the death penalty if jurors had found her guilty of firstdegree murder.

The prosecution said Anthony smothered Caylee with duct tape on June 16, 2008, drove around for several days with the body in her car trunk and then dumped the remains in woods near the family home. The defense argued that Caylee died in an accidental drowning in the family’s backyard pool. Millions of Americans followed the trial for more than six weeks and many were stunned, even angered, by the verdict reached by jurors on Tuesday. One juror told ABC News that there was not enough evidence to convict Anthony but stopped short of saying she was innocent. Jurors also found her not guilty of aggravated child abuse and of aggravated manslaughter of a child. —Reuters

Peru president-elect meets Obama, Clinton WASHINGTON: Peru’s leftist president-elect Ollanta Humala on Wednesday had a surprise meeting with President Barack Obama, a welcome bit of US outreach ahead of his inauguration later this month. Humala earlier aligned himself with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez, a fierce and vocal critic of the United States. But the Peruvian on the campaign trail and at least for now has tempered his rhetoric, amid fears in Peru he could undo his country’s solid economic growth after his July 28 inauguration.

While meeting at the White House with National Security Adviser Tom Donilon, Humala, though not on an official visit, had a welcome bit of friendly personal diplomacy as Obama popped in to chat, Peru’s ambassador Luis Chuquihuara said. The several-minute discussion “was a gesture of great political deference and greatly appreciated by the president elect,” Chuquihuara added.

“My intention here is to come to strengthen our ties, which are good, but we need to improve them further during my term in office,” Humala said earlier at the State Department just before meeting with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Clinton said Humala “has a very big agenda in front of him, and the United States stands ready to be his partner.” —AFP

KABUL: Canada formally ended its combat mission in Afghanistan yesterday after years of being on the front lines of the fight against Taleban insurgents in the south. The withdrawal of 2,850 Canadian combat troops comes at a time the Taleban continue to show their resilience, peace talks are in their infancy and governance and development are lagging security gains on the battlefield. Underscoring the persistent dangers, a roadside bomb killed eight Afghan policemen on a patrol in the northern district of Fayz Abad. The police chief of the surrounding Jawzjan province, Abdul Aziz Ghyrat, said six policemen, including the unit’s commander, were killed instantly and two died later at a hospital.

Northern Afghanistan had been relatively calm but has seen a rise in violence over the past two years. Canada had been the sixth largest troop-contributing nation, behind the US and European countries. While 2,850 Canadian combat troops are going home, 950 others have started streaming into the country to help train Afghan security forces.

Canada transferred its mission to the United States at Kandahar Air Field during a ceremony held in a hall decorated with Canadian maple leaf flags. After remarks, handshakes and the exchange of military paperwork, troops held a moment of silence for their fallen comrades. Since 2002, 157 Canadian troops have been killed in Afghanistan. “It’s safe to say that the country of Afghanistan remains volatile,” Canadian Defense Minister Peter MacKay told The Associated Press in a telephone inter-

KANDAHAR: Canadian and American officers salute during the playing of the Canadian national anthem during a transfer of authority ceremony yesterday in Kandahar, Afghanistan. —AP view. “There have been very hard fought the contributions that Canada has gains made as far as the stability and made, and of course they don’t want to security, but it is fragile and much of the see Canada leave.” With more than responsibility rests, of course, with the 90,000, the United States has the largest government of Afghanistan.” MacKay number of troops in Afghanistan. said the process of training Afghan President Barack Obama announced last forces to take the lead in providing secu- month that 33,000 American troops will rity across the country was well under leave the country by the end of next summer. British Prime Minister David way.

“But it is the professionalism and Cameron announced Wednesday that their ability to secure some of these par- the UK will withdraw 500 troops from ticularly violent regions like Kandahar Afghanistan by the end of 2012, a move that will be the telling feature as to that will reduce the size of the British whether the security will last,” he said. contingent in the country to 9,000.

“Certainly the desire is there on the part There currently are 4,812 troops in of the Afghans themselves. “They are Afghanistan from Germany; 3,935 from enormously respectful and grateful of France; and 3,880 from Italy. — AP

Scandal erupts over power of Mexican union leader MEXICO CITY: Elba Esther Gordillo is probably Mexico’s most powerful woman, president of the nation’s biggest union and a potential kingmaker in next year’s presidential election.

Now she’s fighting allegations from a former ally that she tried to extort nearly $2 million a month from a federal agency in a scandal that has raised questions about how far reform has taken root in Mexico following the 2000 ouster of the long-ruling Institutional Revolution Party, or PRI. The accusation hurled by the former head of Mexico’s social security system for government workers comes as Mexico’s two largest political parties struggle over how avidly they should woo Gordillo, who has built a uniquely independent position of power as head of the 1.5-millionmember teacher’s union.

Miguel Angel Yunes said Tuesday that Gordillo had met with him at a San Diego hotel in 2007 and demanded his agency give 20 million pesos ($1.7 million) a month to finance activities of a new political party created by her allies.

Gordillo, who called the claim “rash,

frivolous and slanderous,” has beaten back years of attacks from union dissidents, political foes and journalists who have seen her as a symbol of Mexico’s corrupt, old-style politics. Rivals have accused her of corruption, misuse of union funds and even a murder, but prosecutors who investigated never brought a charge against her. Just last week, the 66-year-old Gordillo acknowledged she had a “political arrangement” with President Felipe Calderon before his election, agreeing to support him if he would agree to put some of her allies in key posts, including leadership of the social security agency, known as ISSSTE, that serves teachers.

That was the job that went to Yunes.

Calderon, in a television interview late Wednesday, acknowledged that he appointed Gordillo’s favorites but said the exchange happened after the 2006 elections. “It was an agreement for the quality of education involving, among other things, that as president I would respect positions or profiles that she had recognized or that had been negotiated from the previous administra-

tion,” Calderon told a Televisa network channel. Calderon said Gordillo in return promised to be an ally in pushing an education reform. Four and a half years into Calderon’s administration, the comprehensive reform is pending.

Even after the uncomfortable accusations raised by Gordillo, Calderon said he respected “the teacher,” her popular nickname.

Calderon said the alleged inappropriate use of public funds by Gordillo and Yunes is a serious matter the government should investigate. “I accept and recognize that I, Elba Esther Gordillo, did support Mr Yunes, but I insist it be clear that I never had anything to do in the management of ISSSTE,” Gordillo said. That prompted Yunes to deny he had been taking orders from Gordillo.

“Around the month of February 2007, on one occasion she invited me to a meeting in San Diego at a hotel near her residence ... She asked that monthly I give 20 million pesos to finance the activities of New Alliance,” Yunes said at a news conference. —AP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

International

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Murdoch hacking scandal deepens with war dead outcry Politicians across board critical, but have ties to media LONDON: A scandal rocking Rupert Murdoch’s media empire deepened yesterday with claims his best-selling News of the World paper hacked the phones of relatives of British soldiers killed in action.

Britain’s military veterans’ association broke off a deal to campaign with the paper on improving conditions for service families, signaling how far the scandal is alienating a core readership, already horrified by suggestions that journalists accessed the messages not only of celebrities and politicians, but also missing children and the relatives of bombing victims.

The British Legion also said it may join major brands in pulling advertising from The Sun, which like its sister paper the News of the World mixes a diet of stories exposing scandal among the rich and famous with populist campaigning. The long-running saga has taken on dramatic new proportions this week and threatens to delay a planned multi-billion-dollar takeover by Murdoch’s News Corp of news and entertainment broadcaster BSkyB. It has also raised fresh questions about the power the Australian-born Murdoch has wielded for 30 years over the British press, politicians-including Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron-and the police.

“We have let one man have too far great a sway over our national life,” said lawmaker Chris Bryant, who secured a debate in parliament on Wednesday in which politicians lined up to vent their fury at News of the World and its powerful proprietor. “No other country would allow one man to garner four national newspapers, the second-largest broadcaster, a monopoly on film rights and first-view movies.” The government has already backed a deal for Murdoch’s News Corp to buy out the 61 percent of pay-TV company BSkyB it does not already own, and says the two cases are not linked. But U.S. shares in News Corp fell over 5 percent on Wednesday, while shares in BSkyB also eased on fears the deal may delayed.

News International said it would work with the Defence Ministry to investigate a report in the Daily Telegraph that the

phone numbers of British soldiers were found in the files of a News of the World investigator jailed in 2007 for hacking. “If these allegations are true, we are absolutely appalled and horrified,” the company said in a statement, echoing language it has used repeatedly as each new case has been brought to light in rival publications. It also noted that it had always been a strong supporter of Britain’s armed forces.

The British Legion said it could not campaign with the News of the World, Britain’s biggest selling Sunday paper, on behalf of the families of soldiers “while it stands accused of preying on these same families in the lowest depths of their misery”. It added: “The hacking allegations have shocked us to the core.” Cameron has proposed inquiries into the newspaper and also into the wider issue of ethics in the cut-throat, and shrinking, news business. Arguments over privacy, free speech and the power of the press have already stirred heated debate this year.

However, critics called Cameron’s move to set up official inquiries a tactic to push the embarrassing affair far into the future. The precise form of those inquiries is still unclear. Labor opposition leader Ed Miliband has called for the BSkyB deal to be referred to the Competition Commission and said that Rebekah Brooks, a former editor and now Murdoch’s most senior British newspaper executive, should quit.

So far, Murdoch has said he will stand

by Brooks, 43, who edited the paper from 2000 to 2003, when some of the gravest cases of phone hacking are alleged to have taken place. She is a regular guest of the prime minister, as well as having good relations with previous Labour leaders in power until last year.

Senior politicians from all parties, including Cameron and Miliband, rubbed shoulders with Murdoch, Brooks and other News Corp executives at Murdoch’s exclusive annual summer party last month, underlining the power his organization wields. Both Miliband and Cameron chose

former News International employees as media advisers, although Cameron’s choice of Andy Coulson, who succeeded Brooks as News of the World editor, has caused the prime minister the more obvious problems. Coulson quit the paper over the first hacking case in 2007 and went to work as Cameron’s spokesman. He resigned from the prime minister’s office in January as police reopened inquiries.

The scandal dominated front pages yesterday, including at Murdoch’s Timesthough the Sun devoted all but a few lines to allegations about the sex life of soccer star Rio Ferdinand. The main accusations are that journalists, or their hired investigators, took advantage of often limited security on mobile phone voicemail boxes to listen in to messages left for celebrities, politicians or people involved in major stories. Disclosure that the practice involved victims of crime came when police said a private detective working for the News of the World in 2002 hacked into messages left on the phone of murdered schoolgirl Milly Dowler while police were still looking for her.

Mark Lewis, a lawyer for her parents, said other papers had also been involved in underhand pratices to secure circulation-boosting stories, and said News of the World was “unlucky” because its investigator had kept copious notes-in 2007, he and the paper’s royal correspondent went to jail for hacking. Police are mining those notes kept by investigator Glenn Mulcaire for clues to possible other victims. The list of those named so far by rival publications also includes victims of the London suicide bombings of July 7, 2005, and the parents of 3-year-old Madeleine McCann, who disappeared in Portugal in 2007.

Murdoch, the 80-year-old U.S.-based billionaire, kept a low profile at a conference in Sun Valley, Idaho. He did, however, issue a rare statement saying he found the allegations of hacking, and reports his journalists also bought information from police, “deplorable and unacceptable”. He has named a senior News Corp executive to oversee an investigation. — Reuters

ENCHEDE: An exterior view at the Grolsch Veste stadium in Enschede, Netherlands yesterday. A section of a Dutch football stadium collapsed during off-season construction work trapping people underneath, police said. The mayor of Enschede said at a press conference one worker was killed and 14 hospitalized. —AP

One dead, 14 injured in Dutch roof collapse AMSTERDAM: One construction worker was killed and 14 others injured by falling steel and rubble when part of a Dutch soccer stadium’s roof in the city of Enschede collapsed during renovation work yesterday. “A large part of the roof has collapsed. A substantial number of people got trapped and there is one dead victim as far as we know,” Enschede mayor Peter den Oudsten told reporters.

The incident was probably related to construction work at the stadium, police said, adding that workers were the only people in the stadium at the time. “We were at the third level and we were frightened. There was noise, everyone was running everywhere. We were working below the floor. There was panic, everyone was running away. Then we looked if there were injured people,” a construction worker told public broadcaster NOS. Among the injured, two were serious, Den Oudsten said. Ten people were hospitalised and authorities were checking if any people were still trapped.

Enschede is located in the east of the Netherlands close to the German border and photos on Dutch media showed several ambulances and a fire truck at the scene.

There were reports that a trauma helicopter was also deployed. Football club FC Twente, the Dutch top division’s runners-up last season and champions in 2009-10, play at the stadium where work to expand seating to 30,000 is scheduled for completion by Aug 1 in time for the start of the new season. — Reuters

Sudan’s Bashir warns rebels ahead of secession

JUBA: Women from Jonglei state pose for a photograph as they gather ahead of a rehearsal for independence celebrations in Juba, southern Sudan yesterday. Southern Sudan is set to declare independence from the north tomorrow. —AP

KHARTOUM: North Sudan’s President Omar Hassan Al-Bashir yesterday said he would take no part in foreign peace talks after the south of the country secedes at the weekend.

He said, however, that he would travel to South Sudan when it becomes independent tomorrow and that he sought friendly relations with the former civil war foe. Sudan’s oil-producing south is due to declare independence tomorrow-a split that was voted for in a referendum promised in a 2005 north-south peace deal.

“I will travel to (the southern capital) Juba in two days to congratulate them on their new state and wish them security and stability,” Bashir said in a televised speech in the central White Nile state. He said he was seeking friendly relations with the south but both countries should not interfere in their internal affairs. “We gave them a complete state with oil. All they need to do is to switch on the engine,” he said. Bashir warned the north

would hold no more foreign talks on solving internal conflicts such as violence in the northern border state of South Kordofan where the army is fighting armed groups allied to the south.

Leaders of north and south had agreed on Monday in Ethiopia to continue talks on a series of issues both sides need yet to solve such as ending tensions in South Kordofan.

“After the betrayal in South Kordofan they come and want to hold talks.... But we will not hold any talks in Addis Ababa or elsewhere with those who take up arms,” he said.

North Sudan would not sign any more international agreements after it wrapped up a peace accord later this month with a small group in the western region of Darfur, the scene of an insurgency, he added. Among other pressing issues north and south need to agree how to divide oil revenues-the lifeblood for both economies- and other assets and debt.—Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

International

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Afghan, Pakistan to coordinate amid confusion KABUL: Afghanistan said yesterday it would work with Pakistan to avoid innocent deaths as they fight militants on their remote, mountainous border after recent shelling killed dozens of Afghans, fuelling tensions and confusion. Pakistan says it may have accidentally fired a few rockets over the border while chasing militants, but the apparent scale of the shelling has sparked speculation it could be a show of strength by Islamabad, under increasing US pressure, or simply in retaliation for Afghan fire.

Afghan officials say nearly 800 rockets fired from Pakistan over the past month have killed 42 people, including children, wounded dozens more and destroyed 120 homes.

There are Islamist insurgents on both sides of the porous and disput-

ed border and it is extremely difficult to verify events. The shellings have outraged many ordinary Afghans and there had been calls from within Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s cabinet for a military response. At a news conference this week, Karzai said he wanted to see a non-violent end to the problem.

Kabul and Islamabad both issued statements saying their leaders had agreed to find a quick solution.

Pakistani Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani phoned Karzai late on Wednesday and said while his army was exercising “utmost restraint” against militant cross-border incursions, the situation “needs to be defused quickly”, Gilani’s office said.

Karzai’s office said yesteday the leaders had agreed to set up a joint military commission to address any border problems, while Gilani, in his

statement, said he had asked the NATO-led force in Afghanistan to convene a border coordination meeting.

The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) has already set up several “Joint Border Coordination Centres” — the first of which opened in 2008 — aimed at improving communication between ISAF, Afghanistan and Pakistan. ISAF said yesterday it had few official details on the recent rocket attacks, and added: “We share our Afghan partners’ concerns, but ultimately, this is an issue to be resolved between national governments of Afghanistan and Pakistan.”

Stephen Biddle, a senior fellow at US think-tank the Council on Foreign Relations, said the shelling could be uncontrolled attacks by local commanders, but because of

the large scale it was more likely to be a warning from Pakistan. “I’m speculating, but natural possibilities include a signal to Karzai and to (the United States) that we can’t push Pakistan too hard,” Biddle said. The Pakistani tribal regions along the Afghan border are known to be a haven for Al-Qaeda and Taleban militants and while the Pakistani military has conducted operations in some areas, the United States is pressuring Islamabad to do more.

Pakistan says it is doing everything it can to contain a growing militancy on its side of the border at great human sacrifice to its troops.

Already strained ties between Washington and Islamabad worsened after a secret May 2 US raid killed Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in his hideout near Pakistan’s main military academy. —Reuters

38 dead in India as train smashes into wedding bus Driver said to be under the influence of alcohol

KHOST: Afghans shout anti US slogans during a demonstration in Khost, Afghanistan yesterday.

Villagers protested the deaths of civilians in a coalition airstrike earlier this week in Khost province. —AP

NATO air strike kills 13 civilians KHOST: Up to 13 civilians, mostly women and children, were killed in a NATO air strike yesterday in the eastern Afghan province of Khost, provincial police chief Mohamad Zazai said.The coalition said those killed were family members of insurgents who also died in the strike that was called in after Afghan-led forces came under fire. The deaths triggered protests blocking the main highway to Kabul nearby, with civilian casualties in Western military operations extremely sensitive in war-torn Afghanistan, where the Taleban have waged a decade-long insurgency.

“Unfortunately eight women, four children, and one man were killed in a NATO air strike on a residential house in Dowamanda district early this morning,” Zazai said, adding that four Taleban -linked Haqqani militants were also killed.

“The body of a Haqqani commander and three fighters have also been recovered from the vicinity of the house. A delegation has been sent to investigate the incident,” he said. A spokesman for the provincial governor confirmed that civilians had been killed in the incident but gave no further details. NATO’s International Security Assistance Force said those killed were family members of the Haqqani network, which is a target of the alliance force. It did not say how many civilians were among the dead.

A spokesman for the coalition said Afghan-led forces had gone in search of the insurgents when they came under attack by rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire.

“Responding to the insurgent attack, the security forces returned fire and called in an air weapons team. The subsequent air strike killed several insurgents and unintentionally a number of associated family members,” he said. —AFP

LUCKNOW: Thirty-eight people were killed and more than 30 were injured yesterday when a train slammed into a packed bus carrying a marriage party in northern India, local government officials said. The accident took place in the middle of the night at an unmanned crossing in a remote area of Kanshiram Nagar district in Uttar Pradesh state, about 300 kilometers northwest of the state capital Lucknow.

District magistrate Selva Kumari told AFP by telephone that she suspected the driver might have been under the influence of alcohol as he drove the private vehicle with about 70 people on board. “We suspect that the driver was drunk after the wedding party and thought he would be able to make it across the crossing before the train hit the tail of the bus, smashing it to pieces,” she said. A total of 38 people were killed and 31 were injured, including the driver, she said.

The passengers were mostly the groom’s relatives and friends returning from a late-night marriage ceremony.

The bride and groom were reportedly following behind in a jeep and were unhurt. NDTV network broadcast footage from the scene, showing debris strewn across the tracks and police officers carrying bodies covered with sheets on stretchers. India’s staterun railway system-still the main form of long-distance travel despite fierce competition from new private airlinescarries 18.5 million people daily.

There are hundreds of safety incidents on the railways annually, but the accident was the deadliest so far this year. Attempts to stop people riding on the roofs of trains have largely

LUCKNOW: Two men lie in a hospital bed after they were injured when a running train hit a bus at a railway crossing near Kanshiramnagar, a village 350 kilometers (220 miles) southwest of Lucknow, India yesterday.—AP

failed, vehicles routinely drive around barriers at crossings, and passengers are often seen hanging out of open doors in the carriages. The office of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced compensation for the victims, with 200,000 rupees (4,500 dollars) for the families of the deceased and 50,000 for the injured. In May last year, nearly 150 people were killed when a Mumbai-bound high-speed passenger express from Kolkata veered off the tracks into the path of an oncoming freight train after the track had apparently been sabotaged.

In July 2010, more than 60 people were killed and 165 injured when a

speeding express rammed into the back of a stationary passenger train in the eastern state of West Bengal.

The worst accident in India was in 1981 when a train plunged into a river in the eastern state of Bihar, killing an estimated 800 people. The railway is the country’s largest employer with 1.4 million people on its payroll and it runs 11,000 trains a day.

Experts say the creaking system, the world’s second largest under a single management, is also desperately in need of new investment to help end transportation bottlenecks that threaten the country’s fast economic growth.— AFP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

International

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Japan nuclear restart in doubt Test plan provokes fury

NYAUNG U: One of the villagers welcoming Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi kisses her as she visits Nyaung Oo market in Nyaung U village, Myanmar yesterday. —AP

Bigger crowd greets Suu Kyi in Myanmar BAGAN: Myanmar democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi has drawn the biggest crowd so far of her trip to the ancient city of Bagan, as bystanders overcame their fears to approach her at a market. Bagan resident Min Min said about 1,000 people greeted Suu Kyi on the fourth day of her private vacation yesterday. Some presented her flowers and other gifts.

The crowd was about three times as big as the largest to previously see her.

Earlier, some people visibly kept their distance as plainclothes police stood by.

Suu Kyi has said she will soon travel around the country to meet her political supporters, drawing a warning in the state-controlled press that she could cause chaos. On her last political tour in 2003, she was arrested. — AP

Thai activist seeks to thwart PM elect Yingluck BANGKOK: Days after Thailand voted for a new government led by the country’s first woman prime minister, a determined doctor with a knack for rallying crowds is pursuing legal action to bring her down. Tul Sitthisomwong, a die-hard opponent of self-exiled former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, accuses the billionaire’s sister and Prime Minister elect, Yingluck Shinawtra, of perjury and wants the courts to indict her before she takes office.

Tul denies he is a puppet for the powerful forces who have long tried to thwart the twice-elected Thaksin, but says Yingluck is unfit to rule and accuses her of giving false testimony during an assets concealment investigation involving her brother three years ago. It is too early to tell whether prosecutors will take up Tul’s complaint, but if Yingluck is indicted or removed as prime minister, it could anger her supporters, including pro-Thaksin “red shirt” demonstrators, who elected her Puea Thai Party in a landslide on Sunday.

“The next prime minister has been involved in corruption and we fear this will be the beginning of another cycle that cannot be broken,” Tul, a lecturer, gynaecologist and obstetrician, told Reuters. “Yingluck has promised to follow brother Thaksin’s policies, but Thaksin’s policy was corruption, and we can’t accept that,” said Tul, who mobilised thousands of demonstrators last year in counter-protests against a nine-week occupation of central

Bangkok by Thaksin’s red-shirted supporters. Thaksin was convicted in absentia of graft in 2008 but controls Puea Thai from exile in Dubai, refusing to serve a two-year jail term he says was contrived by the country’s military and royalist establishment to keep him at bay. Tul, a member of the royalist People’s Alliance for Democracy, or “yellow shirts”, whose prolonged protests undermined proThaksin governments in 2006 and 2008, insisted hehad no political agenda and that the move against Yingluck had not been masterminded by Thailand’s establishment elite, or the ruling Democrat Party defeated in Sunday’s election.

“I’m sure many of them will agree with me, but they are not supporting this campaign,” said Tul. “I can accept it if people hate me, but I’m doing this for peace and for the sake of the country.”

Tul last month filed a complaint with Thailand’s Department of Special Investigation alleging Yingluck perjured herself before an army-appointed Assets Scrutiny Committee and the Securities Exchange Commission when she said she had bought 20 million baht ($659,000) of shares he contends were illegally held by Thaksin. The Supreme Court last year seized $1.4 billion of Thaksin’s assets, which it said were accrued while he was prime minister from 2001-2005 by tailoring policies that benefited units of Shin Corporation, a telecoms conglomerate his family founded and later sold to Singaporean state company Termasek. —Reuters

TOKYO: Japan’s government scrambled to assure wary public yesterday that stress testing nuclear reactors did not call into question their safety after confusion over the plan threatened to delay the first restart of reactors since the March 11 earthquake triggered a radiation crisis. Wednesday’s announcement of planned tests prompted the mayor of the southern town of Genkai, who had accepted earlier safety assurances, to call off a planned restart of two reactors at a local plant run

by Kyushu Electric Power .

The government has hoped that Genkai’s approval would encourage other communities to give a green light to reactor restarts and help avert crippling power blackouts at a time when the Japanese economy is still recovering from the postquake slump. Trade Minister Banri Kaieda told reporters stress tests would serve as an additional assurance, suggesting, but not saying explicitly, that local officials did not have to wait with their decisions for the tests results.

“The safety of the nuclear reactors has already been confirmed, but safety tests will be conducted to further increase the sense of safety,” he told reporters. An official at Japan’s Nuclear and Industrial Safety Agency that is due to oversee the tests, quoted by the Kyodo agency was more direct, telling residents of another town hosting a nuclear plant that it could be restarted without a stress test. Kaieda, who took the blame for the confusion, indicated he was prepared to resign, but that this was not the right time to do so.

“I’ll take responsibility when a time comes ... But for now I need to tackle the tasks that are piling up.” Kaieda’s departure would add to problems faced by increasingly isolated Prime Minister Naoto Kan, who has just lost his reconstruction minister after barely a week in office and faces calls for his resignation both from the opposition and from within his own party. Kan’s government has been reviewing its energy policy to reduce the nation’s reliance on nuclear energy but says restarting reactors is essential to meet peak energy demand, and hoped the tests would ease public mistrust of the nuclear industry.

“We want the stress tests to serve as a reference point for restarting nuclear reactors. This is so the

public can feel more safe and secure,” Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano told reporters. That, however, has backfired, sowing confusion among local governments and prompting investors to sell utility stocks out of fear that the tests could lead to prolonged shutdowns forcing power companies to depend more on costly imported fuels. Shares of Genkai plant operator Kyushu Electric Power Co, fell 7.5 percent, while Kansai Electric Power Co was down 8.4 percent.

The tests will use simulations to confirm how well each reactor could withstand a severe event such as the March earthquake and tsunami that triggered meltdowns at Tokyo Electric Power Co’s Fukushima plant. Kaieda said the tests should be similar to those now carried out by the European Union and take similar amount of time. EU stress tests that began on June 1 require each nuclear plant operator to submit a progress report on Aug. 15 and a final report on Oct. 31. These will become the basis for national reports to be subjected to peer review, which will be completed by April 2012. The EU Commission is due to file a final report to the EU Council in June 2012. Safety fears after the March disaster knocked out cooling systems at the Fukushima Daiichi plant, 240 km (150 miles) north of Tokyo, triggering reactor meltdowns, have made restarting reactors shut for regular maintenance problematic. Only 19 out of Japan’s 54 reactors are now in operation and the trade and industry ministry, which manages the nuclear industry, is keen to get idled ones back on line to avoid power blackouts during the summer, when electricity demand peaks.

Wednesday’s sudden announcement that the government was planning stress tests for all nuclear facilities caught local authorities off-guard and came under fire in media as Kan’s latest policy flip-flop. “Prime Minister Kan made a statement suggesting that stress tests are necessary for reactor restarts,” said Genkai Mayor Hideo Kishimoto.

“This made me feel my decision was meaningless, and I feel furious about it.” Yasushi Furukawa, governor of Saga Prefecture, also slammed Kan for lacking a consistent policy on restarting reactors.

The consent of the governor is needed for the reactors to resume operation. — Reuters

Malaysia child hostages safe, police shoot captor KUALA LUMPUR: A man carrying a machete barged into a Malaysian kindergarten and held children and teachers hostage for six tense hours yesterday before police shot him in the head. Police said the 30 children and four teachers were not harmed. During negotiations with the man, he threatened to kill the children unless he was given a gun, a police officer said. The children had been heard singing in what was believed to be an attempt to calm the man, the Bernama news agency reported.

The unidentified man was in hospital in critical condition after sustaining a single bullet wound to the head, said Jalaluddin Abdul Rahman, deputy police chief in southern Johor state. “All the 30 children, aged between 3 and 5 years, and their four teachers are safe,”

Bernama quoted him as saying. A Johor police officer confirmed Jalaluddin’s comments.

The officer, who declined to be named because he was not authorized to speak to the media, told The Associated Press the man was wielding a machete and a hammer when he barged into the kindergarten in a residential area in Johor early in the morning, sparking a standoff with police. The man, believed to have mental problems, forced the hostages to go upstairs in the two-story building. Police special forces later managed to enter the ground floor and were heading up the stairs when the man attacked them with his weapons and a fire extinguisher, the officer said. Police had no choice but to shoot the man, he said, adding that they were investigating his identity. — AP

A

e niv rsar n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

ECB raises interest rates, hints at more increases

y

Business

Years

Fewer people sought unemployment aid

PAGE 23 PAGE 24

PORTO: A woman walks past a graffiti that says ‘IMF = Eternal Love’ at a closed building, yesterday, in downtown Porto, Portugal. Portugal’s financial plight has deepened. Borrowing rates jumped higher and stocks slumped after its bonds were downgraded to junk status. — AP

Dubai firm axes Airbus orders Airbus outsold Boeing in first half, EADS shares dip PARIS/DUBAI: A troubled Dubai leasing firm has cancelled all its remaining Airbus orders worth $5.8 billion, it emerged yesterday, as the after-shocks of the financial crisis dampened celebrations of record new jet sales.

The clearout by DAE Capital failed to spook investors in Airbus parent EADS, which is well ahead of Boeing this year, but delivered a blow to Dubai at a time when the emirate is touting its recovery from a crippling 2009 debt crisis.

It also raises questions over the fate of about $9 billion in unfilled orders by the same leasing company from Boeing, which is due to update its order book later yesterday. DAE Capital has 56 unfilled orders from Boeing including 15 of its newest freighters based on the 747-8 stretch jumbo, according to the U.S. company’s website.

Officials at DAE Capital, whose chief executive Robert Genise resigned on June 30, were not available for comment. An Airbus

spokesman confirmed the cancellations, which emerged in a monthly order snapshot dominated by strong sales of its A320neo passenger jet at last month’s Paris Air Show.

Airbus sold a total of 777 aircraft in the first half, or 640 after accounting for cancellations such as the 45 remaining orders for A320 and A350 jetliners withdrawn by DAE Capital. According to the most recent available data, Boeing won 210 gross orders and 151 net orders between Jan. 1 and June 28.

Fresh demand has been dominated by orders for fuel-saving narrowbody jets from India and Asia to dampen oil costs, but planemakers are still managing backlogs left vulnerable in some cases by the abrupt end of a previous ordering boom in 2008. DAE had already cancelled Airbus orders worth $4.7 billion as well as a slew of Boeing orders in March and entered negotiations with both planemakers about the rest of its orders.

French brokerage Oddo said investors were prepared for the cancellations. Shares in Franco-German-led EADS fell 0.3 percent to 23.32 euros in a slightly higher European market. Dubai Aerospace Enterprise was formed in 2006 in a collaboration between several Dubai names including sovereign wealth arm Investment Corporation of Dubai, developer Emaar and state-linked DIFC Investments.

The company ordered more than 200 aircraft during the market heyday in 2007 but its ambitions fizzled out as the global financial crisis engulfed Dubai. It was reported last year to have ceded some of its orders to Dubai-based airline Emirates. “The shareholders in DAE are government entities and each of them own at minor stake. So there is not a single entity that is championing for DAE and this may be a reason why it is marginalised,” said Khuram Maqsood, former director at a Dubai investment fund.

“The cancellations had to do with the liquidity issues DAE is facing, and in general, Dubai is facing. The cancellations are just a symptom of the ground reality.” Still, a June bond issue by the Gulf Arab emirate came hard on the heels of a highly successful bond launch by flagship carrier Emirates-the largest buyer for the Airbus A380 — boosting Dubai’s case that the worst was behind it.

The total of 777 first-half aircraft orders at Airbus includes 180 planes sold to India’s IndiGo and 200 to Malaysian budget carrier AirAsia-two deals that set volume records on successive days at last month’s upbeat air show. They do not however include 88 A320 jets sold to China on June 28 amid tensions with Europe over emissions trading rules.

“Some details still need to be finalised,” an Airbus spokesman said. Airbus delivered 258 aircraft including 10 A380 superjumbos between January and June. —Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

UAE hotel occupancy rises in May, Oman plunges DUBAI: Hotel occupancy in the United Arab Emirates rose in May as some tourists revised their travel plans due to unrest in the Middle East, while neighbouring Oman saw a nearly 19 percent plunge, data showed yesterday. Oil-rich capital Abu Dhabi, home to the world’s first Ferrari theme park, saw a 17.4 percent jump in May hotel occupancy to 64.2 percent, Deloitte and STR Global data showed.

Hotels in the UAE trade and tourism hub Dubai, known for the world’s tallest tower, reported a more modest occupancy increase of 0.7 percent to 69.9 percent in May from the previous year. “There is a tale of two geographies at the moment.

One is that in countries impacted by the

‘Arab Spring’, tourism has been decimated,” said Alex Kyriakidis, Deloitte global managing director for tourism, hospitality and leisure.

“If you look at Egypt, Bahrain, Lebanon and Syria, you look at declines of at least 30 and in most cases 50 percent in terms of revenues and available rooms,” he said.

Overall Middle East hotel occupancy declined by 1.8 percent, to 60.4 percent, in May compared to the same period last year. The UAE, the world’s No. 3 oil exporter, has been spared the political turmoil affecting nearby Bahrain, Oman and Yemen, drawing tourists to attractions such as the luxurious Burj Al Arab hotel and an indoor ski slope.

“Tourists, particularly upscale tourists,

who would have gone to Egypt and to Tunisia are now coming to Dubai. Saudis who would have gone to Bahrain are now coming to Dubai,” Kyriakidis said. Hotels, wholesale and retail trade account for 15 percent of the UAE’s economic output, government data shows. “It is really good that there is an increase in the summertime. Most people go out from the country,” said Mohamed Amerah, economic adviser at the Ajman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Soaring temperatures and a humid climate in the desert coastal cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai usually reduce tourist numbers between May and August.

Dubai’s room occupancy rate is well below the nearly 82 percent seen in the

oil-boom year of 2008, according to government data, although number of rooms has soared by around 60 percent over the last five years, Kyriakidis said. The number of tourists in Abu Dhabi rose 10 percent in January-May, the emirate’s tourism authority said this week. The emirate has hosted more leisure and entertainment events, such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, as well as major conferences and exhibitions, to attract visitors. In Oman, hotel occupancy in the capital Muscat dropped by 18.8 percent year-on-year to 40.8 percent in May. The usually calm Gulf Arab sultanate saw protests demanding jobs and an end to graft in February and March, following uprisings that toppled rulers in Egypt and Tunisia. — Reuters

Gulf banks in focus, Egypt investors wary When will Saudi banks start growing again?

DUBAI/CAIRO: Gulf investors will look towards second-quarter earnings results for direction, beginning in Saudi Arabia and Qatar, as global factors such as the Greek debt concerns shift to the back burner. Qatar National Bank, the Gulf Arab state’s largest lender, kicked off the earnings parade this week. The first major regional lender to report earnings, the bank is closely watched for indications of the sector’s performance.

The bank edged past estimates with second-quarter profit of 1.8 billion riyals ($494.8 million) on Wednesday. Qatar’s central bank in February ordered all commercial banks to shut down their Islamic banking operations by the end of 2011 and investors are unsure how this will impact their profitability. In Saudi Arabia, lending growth will be a key indicator of the rate of recovery now that bad loan provisions are largely behind the sector.

“The big story that people are waiting for is when will the Saudi banks start growing again?” says Ibrahim Masood, senior investment officer at Mashreq Bank.

“They’re extremely liquid, well capitalized but begs the question why they are not growing. These numbers will be interesting.” A massive government spending plan announced during the peak of regional unrest, which includes building 500,000 new homes, has boosted sentiment but may not significantly impact the bottom line in the second-quarter earnings.

“It’s still early to expect a lot of this project spending to start flowing through into banks. A more likely growth area for banks is the consumer side,” Masood added. The United Arab Emirates’ banking sector has drawn buying interest in the weeks running up to the results, but the numbers may fail to impress investors.

“There was a degree of caution coming into (earnings expectations) during the second quarter, with corporate loan quality failing to improve and a general lack of growth,” Raj Madha, Rasmala senior banking analyst, said of Abu Dhabi-listed banks.

Abu Dhabi-listed banks are expected to show faster growth than their Dubai counterparts as higher public sector spending

in the former emirate lends support, Madha added.

Egyptian market performance next week will likely be determined by the outcome of today’s mass demonstration in Cairo’s Tahrir Square. Analysts are concerned that the continuing lack of political stability in Egypt is frightening away investors and tourists, two important motors of the economy.

They say many investors are also concerned that the trials of businessmen have been driven in part by public demands for rapid convictions. “Foreign investors are looking for more clarity on politics and the economy before re-entering the market,” said one analyst.

Court rulings on Tuesday helped dispel concerns somewhat after three former ministers and businessman Yasseen Mansour, chairman of property developer Palm Hills, were found not guilty of graft charges. Palm Hills shares soared by almost 10 percent on Tuesday after the court ruled that Mansour was innocent.

It gave up some gains on Wednesday, ending down 4.4 percent. The three ministers still face trials on other charges or have already been found guilty in separate corruption probes. Among the protesters’ demands for Friday are speedier trials and the replacement of officials who were serving under the Mubarak government.

Traders say the court verdicts could give the protest momentum, in addition to the release on Monday of officers on trial for the killing of Egyptians during the country’s political uprising earlier this year.

Another protest erupted on Monday on on a road linking the canal city of Suez to Cairo after a court freed the police officers.

“Local sentiment is very concerned about Friday’s demonstration,” says Mohamed Radwan of Pharos Securities.

“The acquittals ... definitely made many Egyptians angry.” One analyst said that share volumes were nonetheless likely to remain low as trade entered the slow summer months. “Retail investors may renew their interest in small caps next week.

News flow will remain important, as we saw with Palm Hills,” he said. — Reuters

PARIS: A French worker adjusts machinery on a cement mixing truck at a processing plant of Lafarge, the world’s largest cement maker, in Paris.

India’s Supreme Court yesterday, has given French cement giant Lafarge permission to resume mining limestone in the country’s mineral-rich northeast, rejecting environmental opposition. — AFP

Zain Iraq in ‘big challenge’ to meet IPO deadline DUBAI: Zain Iraq faces “a big challenge” to meet an August deadline to launch an initial public offering and may end up floating less than a regulator-mandated 25-percent stake, its chief executive said. The operator, a unit of Kuwait’s Zain, must become a listed joint stock company by the end of August. “We have started the process some time ago,” Zain Iraq Chief Executive Emad Makiya said by email. “However, meeting the deadline would be a big challenge.”

Under the terms of licences issued in 2007, Zain Iraq and rival operators Asiacell, an affiliate of Qatar Telecom (Qtel), and Korek-part-owned by France Telecom must sell 25 percent of their shares and list on the Iraq Stock Exchange (ISX) by August-end.

With less than nine weeks to the deadline and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan due to start in early August, the three carriers have offered only vague assurances of their intentions to list. “We are talking to the regulator and ISX about what is the best approach for the country,” said Makiya, when asked if he had asked the

telecoms regulator-the Communications and Media Commission-and ISX about postponing the IPO. “The CMC and ISX may prefer smaller percentages (to be floated) at the beginning-we shall coordinate these issues with them,” said Makiya. Nomura gives Zain Iraq an enterprise value of $4.9 billion and Asiacell $4.4 billion, making quarter stakes in both worth about $2.35 billion combined.

The Iraq bourse’s capitalisation currently stands at less than $4 billion, and average daily trading in May was less than $2 million, prompting analysts to question whether the market is ready for the telecoms IPOs. “This is one of the reasons behind requesting the regulator and ISX to asses carefully market status,” said Makayi, “warning Zain Iraq was unlikely to achieve its full valuation in an IPO. Should the IPO go ahead, Zain Iraq will use the proceeds to finance its expansion and settle “financial dues”, Makayi added. — Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Singapore Temasek investments edge up to record SINGAPORE: Singaporean state investment company Temasek Holdings said its investments inched higher to a fresh record high in its last financial year as Asian companies reaped solid profits.

Temasek said in an annual report Thursday that the value of its investments rose 3.8 percent to 193 billion Singapore dollars ($157 billion) in the fiscal year ended March 31. The portfolio rose 42 percent in the previous fiscal year. Temasek’s net profit for the last fiscal year jumped to SG$13 billion from SG$5 billion amid improved earnings from the companies it has stakes in.

Temasek has benefited from a shift to Asian assets as the region enjoys stronger economic growth than the US or Europe.

Investment in companies in Asia account for 77 percent of the fund’s current portfolio, including 32 percent in Singapore.

“We remain optimistic on the long term growth of Asia,” Dilhan Pillay, head of portfolio management, said at a news conference. “Many countries in Asia will benefit from demographic and urbanization trends.” Pillay warned that the debt crisis in Europe, high unemployment in the US and measures to control quickening inflation in Asia are hampering global economic growth. “The US risks an extended period of modest growth,” Pillay said.

“The ongoing austerity measures in Europe may further dampen the fragile recovery in the region.” During the fiscal

year, Temasek invested SG$13 billion, including SG$4 billion in share issues and recapitalizations in companies such as China Construction Bank Corp., Bank of China Ltd. and Standard Chartered Plc. Temasek raised about $3.6 billion this week through selling part of its stakes in China Construction Bank and Bank of China. “We do look at periodic rebalancing of the portfolio,” said Nagi Hamiyeh, managing director of investments. “We have sold a small stake in the two banks but remain heavily invested. We have faith in the policies of the Chinese government in the long term and we remain bullish on China in the long term.” Pillay denied a Financial Times report in June that Chief Executive Ho Ching, wife of

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, will likely resign next month. Ho did not attend the news conference. “Ho Ching has unequivocally said to all of us that she is staying at Temasek,” Pillay said. “She remains CEO and is fully engaged with us in everything we do.” Temasek said the market value of its investments has grown 17 percent annually since the fund began in 1974.

Singapore’s Finance Ministry is Temasek’s only shareholder. The company, which is smaller than the city-state’s other sovereign wealth fund, the Government of Singapore Investment Corp., owns large stakes in many of the country’s biggest companies, including Singapore Telecommunications, DBS and Singapore Airlines. — AP

Ample crude supply buoys India in Iran payment talks Saudi, UAE, Kuwait able to supply more

MELBOURNE: Empty luggage trolleys sit outside the Tiger Airways terminal at Melbourne Airport as the airline’s senior executives hold crisis talks with aviation regulators in Melbourne, as the budget carrier attempts to allay safety fears and return to the skies. — AFP

Tiger Airways’ future in doubt SYDNEY: The future of budget airline Tiger Airways Australia was in serious doubt yesterday after regulators applied to keep it grounded until August, although the carrier insisted it would fly again. Tiger was last Saturday barred from operating domestic flights for a week by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) over “serious and imminent” safety risks and the regulator wants the suspension prolonged until August 1.

CASA approached the Federal Court in Melbourne yesterday seeking an extension to give it more time to study the risks and Tiger’s response. “The application has been lodged,” said CASA spokesman Peter Gibson, adding that more questions were being thrown up as investigators went through Tiger’s books. “We have to make sure we fully understand the reasons why these problems have occurred-if they are systemic problems, problems with process and problems with safety systems.”

In a statement, Tiger Airways Australia, a subsidiary of Singapore’s Tiger Airways, suggested it would not oppose the move, while announcing that its Australian chief executive Crawford Rix will leave on July 31. But it said it remained intent on returning to

the skies after a grounding that is costing it US$1.6 million a week. “Tiger Airways Australia is committed to working with the industry regulator and other authorities to resolve their issues, something we are confident we can do in the coming days and weeks,” the airline said.

“We are optimistic of returning to normal services while reassuring the public, staff and stakeholders of our long-term commitment to Australia.”

The airline said it would refund fares to passengers holding reservations up until the end of July and a spokeswoman added that the carrier “hopes our customers stand by us”. Rix, formerly at British low-cost carrier bmibaby, will be replaced by Tony Davis, the group president of Tiger Airways Holdings who was sent from Singapore to lead the talks with CASA. Davis’s former responsibilities will be carried out by Chin Yau Seng, executive director at the parent company, who joined Tiger from Singapore Airlines earlier this week. Singapore Airlines has a 32.9 percent equity stake in Tiger Airways Holdings and said it was monitoring the situation. “At this point we have no plans to reduce our stake in Tiger Airways,” a spokesman told AFP in Singapore.—AFP

NEW DELHI: Iran’s retreat from brinkmanship over crude exports to India as unpaid bills head towards $5 billion shows Asia’s third-largest oil importer has more options in today’s market than the sanctions-hit Islamic Republic.

Tehran and New Delhi, Iran’s second-largest oil buyer after China, have since December struggled to find a payment method for 400,000 barrels per day (bpd) of crude that would be acceptable to India’s allies, particularly the United States. The National Iranian Oil Co (NIOC) wrote to Indian refiners on June 27 threatening to halt supplies in August if no solution was found, but within a week made a U-turn.

“The consumer has the upper hand because India is a big market for Iran,” said Victor Shum, a managing consultant at Purvin & Gertz in Singapore. In the past month Indian refiners have bought nearly three million extra barrels offered by Saudi Arabia, the world’s biggest oil producer, and analysts say other suppliers are also ready to help meet its fast-growing crude demand. Analysts feel there is enough spare capacity in the Middle East, mainly Saudi Arabia, to meet Indian needs.

“For India there are producers in the Middle East like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and there are lots of Middle East crudes which are in the market which can provide alternatives to Iran crude,” said Sushant Gupta, an analyst with energy consultancy Wood Mackenzie in Singapore. Saudi Arabia, Iraq and UAE grades can easily replace Iran Heavy and Iran Mix crude that Indian refiners normally buy, an Asian oil trader said.

India’s position has been further strengthened recently as, in addition to Saudi Arabia’s unilateral plan to boost output and its recent reduction in selling prices, leading global consumers have released extra barrels into the market . “In the current scenario clearly India is in a more advantageous position as it is getting supplies on deferred payments,” the Asian oil trader added.

Iran, OPEC’s second-biggest producer after Saudi Arabia and an opponent of the kingdom’s push for increas-

ing production to cool prices, has limited buyers as many countries are put off by sanctions related to its nuclear programme. Iran is the second-biggest supplier to India, meeting about 12 percent of its import needs with sales to refiners MRPL, Essar Oil, HPCL, BPCL and Indian Oil Corp .

“Iran will try its best to accommodate India and both countries will try to find a solution and resolve the issue because India needs oil and Iran wants to sell the oil. India is there right next door,” said Shum. Iran on Thursday said the unpaid bills were the price for defending market share against Saudi Arabia.

“Preservation of market share has a price,” Iran’s OPEC governor, Mohammad Ali Khatibi, told Sharq daily in an interview published yesterday. Most of its existing buyers use bilateral agreements to pay an option which is less attractive with India given the stark imbalance in trade between them. “Iran ... does not import Indian products to a value anywhere close to the value of India’s crude purchases. Hence, sitting on large amounts of Indian rupees would tie the hands of the Iranians in a way that their acceptance of Chinese and Korean payments ... does not,” IHS senior Middle East energy analyst

Samuel Ciszuk said in a note Efforts to find another currency have so far failed. One option for Iran if India buying dries up could be to sell oil through traders, though the US and EU could move to restrict such trades.

Other avenues look equally difficult for Tehran. “If Iran doesn’t sell its crude to India, they will have to float it. No-one is buying incremental Iranian,” said a trader with a western oil firm in Singapore. Ciszuk said it could be difficult to find alternative homes for Iran’s heavier, sour crudes.

“For Iran, there is a massive marketing problem looming,” IHS said. “If India stopped buying (Iran’s heavier and sour crudes) would be very hard to market, as few other refineries are geared towards taking them.”

If India gradually shifts its crude slate away from Iran, there would be little impact on global prices, the Asian oil trader said. “But if it’s abrupt, it might impact Middle East prices and push up India’s import bill,” the trader added. For now, it looks like India has the upper hand.

“If Iran needs to go through a middle man or a trader for oil, it’s going to be Iran which is hurt. India will buy because it needs oil. Iran may earn less. For India, it does not make a difference,” said Shum. — Reuters

AMRITSAR: An Indian petrol pump employee fills the tank of a motorbike at a petrol station in Amritsar yesterday. India imports about 80 percent of its crude oil and has been frantically seeking new fuel sources as its economy grows. — AFP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

ABN-AMRO eyes equities for its mountain of cash LONDON: ABN AMRO Private Banking may invest nearly half its 37 billion euros ($54 billion) cash holdings into equities, with the timing dependent on how quickly key economic indicators stabilise. Global chief investment officer Didier Duret told Reuters in an interview the wealth management business, which manages 168 billion euros, became “neutral” in equities in March from an “overweight” position, and the proceeds were mainly in cash.

ABN AMRO Private Banking currently holds about 22 percent of its total portfolio in cash, while 40 percent of its assets under management are invested in equities. “We are entering into the summer in a very turbulent environment. Investors are staying on the sidelines as they continue to witness a soft

patch. If economic condition stabilise, then there could be an opportunity for us to go back into equities,” Duret said.

“That could happen during the summer time,” he said, adding he would go for stock-picking first to convince his clients and then might adopt a sectoral approach. Duret said investing in companies having strong pricing power, which is key to maintain margins and long-term earnings growth, could prove to be an interesting strategy in the current environment that poses increasing macro-economic challenges, global competition and rising input costs.

Duret said the pricing power of companies such as Apple stood out in the IT sector. “We are already seeing a lot of innovation in the IT industry. It will continue to modify the way we consume,

the way we communicate, the way we organise ourselves and the way we produce.” ABN-AMRO, “overweight” on the IT sector, has invested in companies including Apple, ARM Holdings , Alcatel Lucent and Capgemini.

Duret is “overweight” integrated oil companies on the grounds they are a safe-haven investment at a time when the global economy is witnessing a soft patch. ABN AMRO has invested in Royal Dutch Shell and ConocoPhillips . “The energy sector is very promising. There has been a lot of debate on the nuclear energy and we could see a five percent gap in global energy supply following the closure of some nuclear plants.”

Duret was bearish on financials in the short term, saying it was too early to invest in banks because European sover-

eign debt issues would loom for several months. He said well-capitalised financials were at an advantage, and ABN AMRO has invested in banks such as BNP Paribas, HSBC, JPMorgan and UBS. It also holds some insurance companies such as AXA and Allianz. Duret said even if shortterm risks had grown and the duration and depth of the soft patch was unknown, there were opportunities in the longer term as the risk of a double-dip recession was low, long-term earnings growth rates were solid and systemic risk in the euro zone was avoidable. ABN AMRO Private Banking’s absolute return fund Neuflize Optimum, managed by its French subsidiary Neuflize Private Assets, is down 1 percent year -to-date, against a 1.8 percent increase in its internal monetary benchmark. — Reuters

China may cut spending on strategic industries High speed rail and wind power to be hit

NEW DELHI: Passenger jets from Air India, India’s national carrier, stand at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, India. Boeing has forecast a $150 billion market for passenger airplanes in India over the next 20 years driven by a booming economy. — AP

Boeing: Growing India will need 1,320 planes NEW DELHI: Boeing has forecast a $150 billion market for passenger airplanes in India over the next 20 years driven by a booming economy. Indian airlines will need to buy around 1,320 new airplanes to meet the demand of an expanding aviation sector, Boeing India President Dinesh Keskar said in a statement Wednesday.

“Robust growth with new economic prosperity among a massive Indian population, discretionary incomes, business progress and access to airports will increase airplane demand,” Keskar said. India’s burgeoning middle class has switched from traveling by train to flying as an increasing number of private domestic airlines have opened up over the last decade. Keskar said Indian carriers were becoming profitable and with the economy expected to maintain its upward trend, both air travel and air cargo markets would grow.

This year’s outlook is more optimistic than last year’s market outlook which had predicted that India would require 1,150 new aircraft worth $130 billion over the next two decades. Apart from the private airlines, others including state-owned Air India are looking for replacement airplanes as they retire aging and less-efficient jets. At present one in 200 Indians flies just once a year.

That figured is expected to grow exponentially, with the domestic market recording the highest growth rate for aviation globally, according to aviation experts. In January, budget airline Indigo signed a mega $15.6 billion deal for 180 A320 aircraft from Airbus Industrie, an order the European aircraft manufacturer hailed as the biggest single order in terms of the number of jets in aviation history. Airbus plans to deliver the jets between 2016 and 2025.

Apart from passenger aircraft, India is also shopping for military planes. In June, India signed an agreement to purchase 10 Boeing’s C-17 Globemaster III cargo and troop-carrying planes, making India the biggest foreign buyer of the aircraft. The planes are expected to be delivered to India’s air force in 2013 and 2014. — AP

BEIJING: China may rein in plans to invest heavily in seven new strategic industries, including high speed rail and wind power, scaling back cutting-edge projects for industries suffering from old-fashioned problems such as corruption and overcapacity, sources said. Beijing originally planned to invest up to $1.5 trillion over the next five years in the seven sectors, hoping they would grow into a pillar of economic growth and help shift the world’s second-largest economy away from one centered on manufacturing cheap goods. The pullback on spending stems partly from worries about corruption in the country’s high-speed rail project and overcapacity concerns in the wind power sector, said two sources with ties to China’s Communist Party leadership and knowledge of the plan.

“The government is now reconsidering the seven new strategic industries plan,” one source told Reuters, requesting anonymity because he was not authorised to speak to reporters. “The (size of the) retrenchment is still under deliberation,” the source added.

Beijing has long used infrastructure spending to generate jobs and economic activity, most recently tapping government coffers to stave off the effects of the global financial crisis.

While high rates of fixed asset investment have helped maintain strong growth, some economists, such as Nouriel Roubini, have argued that China’s current levels of investment are unsustainable. These days, China is more concerned about taming inflation and managing a mountain of debt piled up by local and provincial governments that the country’s state auditor estimates at 10.7 trillion yuan ($1.65 trillion).

The strategic industries cover high-end equipment manufacturing, alternative energy, biotechnology, new generation information technology, alternative fuel cars and energy-saving and environmentally friendly technologies. Analysts welcomed the news, which could mean less borrowing by local governments and faster consolidation of sectors like wind power. “A lot of these projects are in already question because of their (debt) liability and safety standards,” said Kevin Lai, an economist with Daiwa in Hong Kong. “The question that needs to be asked is: Is (investment-driven expansion) the kind

of growth that China really wants?” Lower spending in high-speed rail is directly related to the departure of the railway minister, sacked this year under a cloud of corruption, said the sources. The former minister, Liu Zhijun, spearheaded China’s high-speed rail expansion until he was removed in March for “disciplinary violations”, a charge commonly used to denote corruption. There were no further details. Premier Wen Jiabao in April warned against corruption tied to big projects, telling “cadres, their families and staff as

8,400 km (5,000 miles), the world’s longest.

Liu had planned to boost the network to 50,000 km (30,000 miles) by 2015. Sheng told the official People’s Daily that it would build a slightly more modest 45,000 km. The ministry, already deep in debt, still expects to spend another 2.8 trillion yuan between now and 2015. But some analysts believe the investment surge has left it with an unsustainable debt burden.

Even so, China is unlikely to shelve high speed rail. “The central government is of the

GANSU: Workers build a highway near a wind farm in the Gobi desert, in China’s northwest Gansu province. Global investments in renewable energy jumped by 32 percent to $211 billion last year, boosted by wind farm development in China and rooftop solar panels in Europe, UN officials said yesterday. — AP well as heads of state-owned enterprises, state financial institutions and academic institutions not to intervene in or manipulate bids in any form”. The ministry has denied any plans to cancel or downgrade rail lines. But the new Minister Sheng Guangzu put investment in railway infrastructure in 2011 at 600 billion yuan ($92 billion), compared with Liu’s pledge of 700 billion yuan.

Liu’s tenure saw rapid development of China’s high-speed rail network, surpassing Japan’s storied bullet trains to become, at

view that high speed rail construction will still continue (but) investment will be evenly spread out, the pace of construction will be a bit slower and research will be more comprehensive,” said Dong Yan, researcher at the state-linked Institute of Comprehensive Transportation. Also to be pared back are plans for wind power. Shao Bingren, committee vice chairman for a top parliamentary advisory body, has warned the wind power industry is already suffering from overcapacity. —Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Home-grown hurdles push Indian firms to invest abroad MUMBAI: With land frustratingly hard to get at home, India’s largest rubber producer decided to make its next investment-and its first overseas-a continent away, in Africa. Harrisons Malayalam, which is also a major tea grower, is joining a surge in outbound investment by corporate India. It plans to spend up to $112 million somewhere in Africa to buy about 10,000 acres.

The overseas investment push by Indian companies, often seen as the assertiveness of a rising power, is increasingly spurred by difficulty finding attractive opportunities in Asia’s third-largest economy. “Plantation land in India is very scarce and the competition is intense for the little that is available,” said Harrisons Malayalam Managing Director Pankaj Kapoor. “So all the plantation companies are looking at Africa where it is still available and cheap.” At home, rising interest

rates and inflation, fierce competition in several industries, and policy gridlock amid a spate of corruption scandals that have put India’s government on the defensive have deterred investment, slowing economic growth and prompting many Indian firms to seek opportunity elsewhere. While doing business abroad diversifies risk and opens new markets, the export of capital even as inflows slow deprives the Indian economy of investment that could add capacity and ease bottlenecks that drive inflation and crimp growth. India Inc.’s increasingly global focus also makes it harder for equity investors to gain exposure directly to the country’s consumption-driven growth, with roughly one-third to half of revenue generated by firms in the 50-share Nifty index coming from overseas, even though exports account for just 18 percent of India’s economy. “Despite India’s vast

Banks struggle to agree Greek aid plan in Rome ROME: International banks, under pressure from European governments to roll over their holdings of Greek debt, tried again to come up with a joint rescue plan yesterday after talks over a French proposal fell apart. European Central Bank and Greek government officials as well as international and Italian banking executives met lobby group the Institute of International Finance (IIF) in Rome yesterday, an Italian Treasury source said. Another source close to the discussions said Deutsche Bank took part.

The banks are struggling to strike a deal which would let private sector creditors provide cash and breathing space to Greek debtors without being defined as a default by credit ratings agencies-which have warned they are watching closely. Adding to that difficulty the banks themselves are split on how best to construct the aid.

Yesterday’s meeting followed a similar one organised by the IIF in Paris on Wednesday at which “a menu of options” was discussed, according to Charles Dallara, the managing director of the bank lobby group.

A French proposal for a rollover in which bondholders would reinvest at least 70 percent of the proceeds from bonds maturing before the end of 2014 in new 30-year Greek debt has run into ratings agency objections. Officials are now looking at a broader range of options.

The Treasury source confirmed that the meeting had broken up around midday GMT. The source said earlier that there would be an exchange of views on “developments so far and the solutions currently on the table for the involvement of private creditors” adding “different possibilities will be discussed, not just one solution.” The meeting was to be chaired by Vittorio Grilli, director general of the Italian Treasury, in his capacity as chairman of the European Union Economic and Financial Committee.

An EU source also confirmed the meeting in Rome and said EU representatives would be attending. However no representative from any of the ratings agencies was expected to be present. Following the effective veto on the French plan by ratings agency Standard and Poor’s, which said it would consider the operation contained in the proposal as a selective default, the search has widened for an alternative plan.

Germany has raised other possibilities including getting banks holding Greek bonds to swap them for new bonds with longer maturities but that proposal has not found favour with banks and some other European governments.

German Deputy Finance Minister Joerg Asmussen said the idea of a bond exchange could be put back on the table, with talks likely to take place over the summer. On Thursday, Dutch Finance Minister Jan Kees de Jager was quoted by the daily Het Financieele Dagblad as saying that private sector banks must be pressured into taking part in a bailout as a voluntary deal was not realistic. — Reuters

opportunities across under-penetrated sectors, companies are venturing abroad for inorganic growth,” HDFC Securities analyst Anupam Gupta wrote in a recent report. “While this is also partly driven by rising global aspirations for Indian companies, another reason for this is a tough competitive field, made no easier by the unpredictable regulatory environment,” he wrote. Foreign direct investment (FDI)

by Indian firms more than doubled in the fiscal year that ended in March to $44 billion. At the same time, inbound FDI fell by a quarter to $19.4 billion, with planned multibillion-dollar investments by South Korean steelmaker Posco and London-listed India-focused miner Vedanta Resources plagued by delays. Within India, investment was flat on an annual basis in January-March after growing 7.8 percent in the previous quarter. Indian firms have made several big-ticket overseas buys in

recent years, and the huge Reliance Industries and Tata conglomerates earn more than half their revenue abroad.

However, the recent mismatch in inbound and outbound investment suggests push factors are increasingly at play. “To a certain extent there is a perception within the private sector of policy drift domestically,” said Frank Hancock, managing director for advisory at Barclays in India. “As a result some corporates are factoring in a higher degree of political risk for making investments at home than abroad,” said Hancock, who advised Indian mobile giant Bharti Airtel in its $9 billion purchase last year of most of Kuwait-based Zain’s African operations. With an economy growing around 8 percent a year, 1.2 billion people and unmet demand for everything from housing, roads and power to food and consumer goods, India is hungry for capital. — Reuters

ECB raises interest rates, hints at more increases Bank of England leaves rate on hold LONDON: The European Central Bank raised its key interest rate to 1.5 percent to dampen inflation and hinted at more increases in coming months, even though they would add pressure on debt-ridden economies like Greece.

Yesterday’s hike, the second this year, was widely expected but the indication by ECB president Jean-Claude Trichet that there would be further increases this year cemented views that the bank will not be derailed by the debt crisis in its mission to get inflation down. The ECB’s responsibility is to keep inflation, which is running at 2.7 percent, below its target of just below 2 percent.

Trichet said in a press briefing the bank would “monitor very closely” price developments — he traditionally uses that phrase to indicate that the tightening cycle will continue but that rates would not rise next month.

Though higher rates may be necessary for a potentially overheating economy like Germany’s, they will add to the growth concerns of the eurozone’s more indebted nations, such as Greece and Portugal.

Overall though, Trichet said the eurozone economy grew in the second quarter of the year, albeit at a slower pace than the 0.8 percent recorded in the first quarter and that uncertainty over the economic outlook remains elevated. “We will continue to monitor very closely all developments with respect to upside risks to price stability,” Trichet said.

Trichet said it was important that Greece continue with its austerity measures to take control of its public finances. Pressing hard on costs while avoiding a damaging debt default would make the Greek economy more resilient with higher growth and lower unemployment, he added. Once again, Trichet insisted that any private sector involvement in a second bailout

ATHENS: A woman enters a branch of Alpha Bank, in central Athens, yesterday.

Greek mortgage holders came under increased pressure yesterday after the European Central Bank raised its benchmark rate to 1.5 percent. — AP

of Greece should be on a voluntary basis and that nothing should be done that prompts the credit rating agencies to slap a “selective default” rating on the country.

Eurozone governments are in discussions with banks and other financial institutions to get them to share part of the burden of a second Greek bailout, which is expected to be completed by September. Even though Greece got euro 110 billion ($157 billion) bailout package last year, it’s going to need more money as it remains effectively locked out of international bond markets. Expectations are that the second bailout will be more or less the same size as the first.

Earlier in the day, the Bank of England held its base interest rate at an all-time low of 0.5 percent as the tepid economic recovery in Britain continues to outweigh concerns over inflation. “We would not completely rule out the MPC (Monetary Policy

Committee) restarting QE (quantitative easing) at some stage, especially if the recovery shows signs of petering out,” said Philip Shaw, chief economist at Investec. “Our judgement is that there will be some indications of strengthening over the second half of the year as consumers adapt to higher taxes, and possibly, from a global perspective as and when the US moves out of its soft patch.”

The FTSE 100 was up 24.56 points, or 0.4 percent, at 6,027.48 by 1116 GMT, having finally succumbed to profit taking on Wednesday after an eight-day rally to close down 0.4 percent. GKN was the star blue-chip performer, up 3.5 percent at 245.8 pence in strong volume, with traders citing talk of bid interest for the company.

Two traders cited Chinese automaker SAIC Motor Corp as a possible bidder with a price being touted at around 350 pence per share. GKN was not available to comment. —Agencies

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Fewer people sought unemployment aid US govt to release June employment report today

REDWOOD CITY: Customers pump gas at a Costco station in Redwood City, Calif. Retailers are reporting robust sales as deep discounts on summer merchandise pulled in shoppers in June. — AP

Oil rises on stock draw, bank forecasts LONDON: Brent crude climbed for the third day to above $114 yesterday, boosted by a higher-than-expected drop in US crude stocks and growing investor appetite following bullish oil forecasts from major banks. US crude oil stocks fell by a more-thanexpected 3.2 million barrels, according to the American Petroleum Institute ahead of a second stocks report yesterday, tightening inventories in the top global oil consumer.

Top investment banks Goldman Sachs , Morgan Stanley and Barclays Capital have all published upbeat forecasts on the outlook for oil fundamentals this week, with some warning of shrinking spare capacity. ICE Brent crude rose 88 cents to $114.50 a barrel by 1000 GMT. US crude also climbed but lagged Brent and was up 68 cents at $97.33 a barrel by the same time. “In our view, it is only a matter of time before inventories and OPEC spare capacity become effectively exhausted, requiring higher oil prices to restrain demand, keeping it in line with available supply,” said Goldman Sachs analysts in a note released yesterday.

On Tuesday, Barclays Capital raised its 2012 forecast for Brent by $10 to $115 per barrel, and upgraded its 2012 forecast for US crude by $4 to $110. “I think there’s generally positive market sentiment and better risk appetite. There’s also a sense that the rate hike in China may be the last,” said Carsten Fritsch, an analyst at Commerzbank said.

China raised interest rates for the third time this year on Wednesday in a move that many investors saw as marking the end of its monetary tightening campaign, buoying the outlook for commodity demand. Technicals are also helping to support the front-month Brent crude contract after it rose above the 50day moving average in yesterday’s session, analysts said. In the short term, Brent crude should consolidate between $112.40$114.48 for one more trading session before rising towards $120, while US crude could hit $99.68, according to Reuters technical analyst Wang Tao. The stronger prices came despite an expected increase in European Central Bank (ECB) interest rates later yesterday in a move to show no let-up in its insistence that governments solve Greece’s debt crisis without triggering a default credit rating. While analysts said higher rates could hurt future regional oil demand, they said the hike had already been factored into current price levels and that this would not dent future demand growth set to come mostly from Asia.

“I think the ECB is a done deal and there won’t be any losses on oil. What will be more important is what (European Central Bank President Jean-Claude) Trichet says afterwards,” said Fritsch.

The European debt crisis is set to remain on investors’ radars after ratings agency Moody’s slashed Portugal’s credit rating to “junk” status and cast doubts on efforts to rescue distressed euro zone states without debt restructuring.

The market will also be watching key US jobs data on Friday for evidence of growth steadying in the world’s largest oil consumer. US nonfarm payrolls likely rose modestly in June after suffering a setback the prior month. Growth in the US economy’s vast services sector remained sluggish in June as new orders fell, but economists said a steady employment reading pointed to job growth later in the year. Concerns over a potential US government debt default also raised fears of weaker demand. Inability to meet payment commitments could lead to higher borrowing costs and tip the economy back into recession. US Treasury officials are discussing options to stave off a default, sources said.

Traders will also be looking to an inventory report from the US Energy Information Administration’s set published yesterday at 1500 GMT. — Reuters

WASHINGTON: The number of Americans applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to the lowest level in seven weeks, although applications remain elevated. The Labor Department said yesterday that applications for benefits dropped by 14,000 to a seasonally adjusted 418,000. The four-week average, a less volatile measure, declined for the first time in four weeks, to 424,750.

Applications have topped 400,000 for 13 weeks, evidence the job market has weakened since the beginning of the year.

Applications had fallen in February to 375,000, a level that signals sustainable job growth. They stayed below 400,000 for seven of the next nine weeks. But then applications surged to an eight-month high of 478,000 in April and have shown only modest improvement since. The department says that about 2,500 applications in Minnesota were from state employees temporarily laid off because of a state government shutdown. Stock futures rose after payroll processor ADP said the private sector added 157,000 jobs last month. That was more than double what economists had forecast. The government will release its June employment report today. Economists expect employers added a net total of 90,000 jobs last month and the unemployment rate remained stuck at 9.1 percent, according to a survey by FactSet. But the ADP and unemployment benefits reports caused several economists to boost their forecasts for hiring in June.

The ADP report “suggests that the US economy started to recover some of the momentum lost over the preceding couple of months,” said Paul Ashworth, an economist at Capital Economics, in a note to clients.

He expects employers added 80,000 jobs last month, but “if we were starting from scratch, the forecast would be nearer to 120,000.” The economy slowed this spring, partly because of temporary factors. High gas prices forced consumers to cut back on discretionary purchases, such as vacations and appliances, which help drive growth. And the March 11 earthquake in Japan led to a parts shortage that reduced US manufacturing output.

Companies responded by reining in hiring. Employers added only 54,000 net new jobs in May, much slower than the average gain of 220,000 per month in the previous three months. The unemployment rate rose to 9.1 percent from 9 percent in April. Ian Shepherdson, chief US economist for High Frequency Economics, raised his forecast to

in early May at a national average of nearly $4 per gallon (3.8 liters). Gas prices averaged $3.58 a gallon nationwide on Thursday, according to AAA. And manufacturing activity expanded in June at a faster pace than the previous month, according to the Institute for Supply Management. That suggests the parts shortage is beginning to abate. The

RICHARDSON: A job seeker looks at a bulletin at the Texas Workforce Commission’s Workforce Solutions of Greater Dallas job resource center in Richardson, Texas. The number of people applying for unemployment benefits fell last week to the lowest level in seven weeks, although applications remain elevated. — AP 175,000 jobs after seeing the better-thanexpected ADP report. “We always took the view that May was hit by one-time factors like severe weather and supply-chain disruptions but this report suggests those factors were more significant than we thought,” Shepherdson said. The government said last month that the economy grew only 1.9 percent in the January-March quarter. Analysts are expecting similarly weak growth in AprilJune quarter, as well. There are signs that growth will pick up in the second half of the year. Gas prices have declined since peaking

economy should grow at a 3.2 percent pace in final six months of the year, according to an Associated Press survey of 38 economists.

Still, growth must be stronger to significantly lower the unemployment rate. The economy would need to grow 5 percent for a whole year to significantly bring down the unemployment rate. Economic growth of just 3 percent a year would hold the unemployment steady and keep up with population growth. The number of people receiving benefits dropped 43,000 to 3.7 million, the department said. —AP

US Treasury secretly weighs options to avert default WASHINGTON: A small team of US Treasury officials is discussing options to stave off default if Congress fails to raise the country’s borrowing limit by an Aug 2 deadline, sources familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. Senior officials, including Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, have repeatedly said there are no contingency plans if lawmakers do not give the U.S. government the authority to borrow more money.

But behind the scenes, top Treasury officials have been exploring ways to prevent a financial meltdown that would be triggered if the government were unable to pay its bills on time, sources told Reuters. Treasury has studied the following issues: Whether the administration can delay payments to try to manage cash flows after Aug. 2 If the US Constitution allows President Barack Obama to ignore Congress and the government to continue to issue

debt. Whether a 1985 finding by a government watchdog gives the government legal authority to prioritize payments.

The Treasury team has also spoken to the Federal Reserve about how the central bank-specifically the New York Federal Reserve Bank-would operate as Treasury’s broker in the markets if a deal to raise the United States’ $14.3 trillion borrowing cap is not reached on time.

The US government currently borrows about $125 billion each month. The Obama administration wants Congress to raise the limit by more than $2 trillion to meet the country’s borrowing needs through the 2012 presidential election.

The contingency discussions, which have remained a closely guarded secret throughout weeks of negotiations with Congress over the debt ceiling, are being led by Mary Miller, Assistant Secretary for Financial Markets, who is effectively cus-

todian of the country’s public debt.

Miller’s team has debated whether Obama could ignore Congress and order continued borrowing-by relying on the 14th Amendment of the US Constitutionif it fails to raise the borrowing cap. The fourth section of the 14th Amendment states the United States’ public debt “shall not be questioned.” Some argue the clause means the government cannot renege on its debts. Obama dismissed talk of invoking the amendment on Wednesday.

“I don’t think we should even get to the constitutional issue,” he said.

“Congress has a responsibility to make sure we pay our bills. We’ve always paid them in the past.”

The White House declined to comment on the discussions at Treasury, but administration officials sought to tamp down talk of relying on the 14th Amendment. —Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Business

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Marching to a new drummer Is the US losing its economic independence?

T

his year, as the nation celebrates Independence Day, the sputtering US economy offers a stark reminder that today we’re more dependent upon foreigners than ever before. We need them to finance our debt: China and Japan together hold more than $2 trillion of US Treasury bonds. We need them to supply much of the oil that’s critical to our economy.

We need them to make the shoes we wear and the gadgets that dominate our lives. We even need them to buy more of the products we make, as growing exports are vital to our economic rebound.

None of these dependencies are particularly new, but there’s growing concern about how much economic independence we’ve lost.

“We’re much more dependent than we have been, probably since the 1800s,” said Clyde Prestowitz, a former US trade negotiator and the author of the 2010 book “The Betrayal of American Prosperity”. “I think dependence per se is not necessarily a bad thing. The question is whether the dependence is working to your advantage or against you. ... Our dependence is growing in ways that are disadvantageous to us.”

The most obvious example of dangerous dependence comes from foreigners owning our debt. Through April, the most current reading, foreigners held 31.4 percent of Treasury Department-issued securities, worth almost $4.5 trillion. (That’s up sharply from June 2005, when foreigners held 24 percent of US Treasury debt.)

Two countries account for half of today’s number - China ($1.152 trillion through April), and Japan ($906 billion).

If China or Japan were to sell their holdings at once, that would badly disrupt financial markets.

Such a scenario is unlikely, since it would reduce the value of their holdings and harm relations with a vital market for their exports. But holding huge amounts of US debt gives these nations a degree of leverage over us, especially on issues such as trying to get China to devalue its currency. And China’s undervalued currency gives it a trade advantage over us. It makes China’s exports to us cheaper and our exports to them more expensive. Our two-way trade imbalance skews widely in China’s favor.

US exports to China in April, the last monthly data available, were $7.9 billion, about 8.5 percent of all US exports, up sharply from $4.7 billion in exports to China in April 2007. That’s in line with April US exports of $124.9 billion to the rest of the world, up nicely from $92.5 billion in exports in April 2007, the last year before the US financial crisis and start of the Great Recession.

The tale of dependency is clearest in imports.

Overall imports from the world in April totaled $182.2 billion; China accounted for more than 16 percent of that at $29.6 billion. The US last year had a trade deficit of $497.8 billion, up from a deficit of about $375 billion in 2009. That includes trade in services, such as insurance. On merchandise trade alone, the US deficit last year was $634.9 billion.

Trade deficits are pernicious. They exaggerate the consequences of dependency in a down economy. The larger value of imports cancels out the economic growth associated with exports. In a down economy, imports drag down the economy’s broader growth rate, weighing on consumer sentiment and employment. To counter this drag, President Barack Obama last year vowed to double the nation’s exports within five years. That would boost jobs and growth, but it also would make the US economy more dependent on foreign buyers of our goods and services to sustain our prosperity.

The composition of our trade balance may

seem odd: Our top categories of goods imports are also our top exports. For merchandise trade, top exports and imports are both in transportation equipment, computers and related products. Boeing and its European competitor Airbus - as well as their aircraft parts suppliers - account for the biggest single share of trade, both exports and imports. US consumers gobble up foreign-made laptop computers, but US exporters sell computer-based medical technology around the globe. Much of the $634.9 billion merchandise trade deficit for 2010 comes from imports of foreign oil - $270.7 billion through June 24. Computers and electronics accounted for another $134.6 billion, apparel and accessories a smaller but still significant $71 billion. On the plus side, US farm products were a trade surplus, selling $36.2 billion, with machinery close behind at $32.3 billion, followed by waste products and scrap metal at $24.3 billion.

Obama’s export goal faces long-term hurdles.

dependency on global forces. Economists point to a chilling effect on US wages because so much manufacturing and even white-collar work can now be shipped abroad. The increasing integration of the US economy into a poorer global economy is thought to be a key factor in growing US income inequality, where the income gains of the middle class are far smaller than those at the top of income scale. “I think it’s a very significant factor,” said Larry Mishel, the president of the Economic Policy Institute, a liberal research organization that closely tracks wage and labor issues.

EPI research suggests that trade with emerging markets, and globalization of trade more broadly, had the effect of reducing by $2,500 a two-earner family’s annual take-home pay in 2006 from what it otherwise would’ve been. In addition, big emerging economies such as China, Brazil and India will increasingly influence what we earn, the jobs we retain, the price we pay for

Many big corporations have opted against exporting and instead now manufacture where they sell. In 2010, almost half - 47 percent - of the sales of companies listed on the benchmark S&P 500 stock index came in foreign markets, according to preliminary data. That’s up a tad from 46.6 percent in 2009 and up sharply from 41.84 percent in 2003, according to Standard & Poor’s.

There’s no reliable data on this from the 1990s, when globalization moved from a trot to a gallop.

These percentages mean that big American companies increasingly depend on sales abroad.

America is a large, developed economy that offers steady but not stellar rates of sales growth.

The real opportunity rests outside our borders.

“The size and magnitude of it makes it important to profits and corporate futures,” said Howard Silverblatt, a senior index analyst for Standard & Poor’s. “The foreign growth, which is substantially higher than the US growth, emphasizes where the companies continue to expand production and, unfortunately, do the hiring.”

For the jobs that still exist here, there’s also a

a loaf of bread, a cup of coffee and especially a gallon of gasoline. Because their growing appetite for goods competes with others, including us, and drives up prices.

“It means there is going to be more upward pressure on commodity prices than we have seen in the past, and oil is prime among them,” said Alan Levenson, the chief economist for the Baltimore-based investment firm T Rowe Price.

“You can do the math about what happens to global demand if China wants to live like Europe.” The growing dependence of the US economy on China and other emerging economies results in a leveling out that Thomas Friedman famously noted in his book “The World is Flat.”

Prestowitz, the former trade negotiator, doesn’t buy that view of the new economic world order. “It may be flat, but it is tilted, and it’s tilted in a way right now that technology, production, jobs and wages tend to slide away from us to the rest of world,” he said. The growth of these economies - good for their people, and providing export markets for ours - brings with it a

curse of bounty. As they develop, these nations consume more soybeans, corn, steel, cement and oil. Over time, that will strain global supplies.

This is already happening with oil.

“It was earlier in the decade that people woke up to the scale of the impact of emerging markets on the oil markets,” said Daniel Yergin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning oil historian and author of “The Prize: The Epic Quest for Oil, Money & Power”. “The irony is we are looking at flat or declining demand in the United States, and it (global demand) is rapidly growing as incomes go up around the world. And that’s what is going to grow (global) demand. When countries reach a certain level of income, they start buying a lot of cars.”

Many energy experts think we’ve passed our peak level of energy demand and that we’re increasingly more energy efficient and self-sufficient. That’s thanks in part to deepwater drilling, which has boosted the domestically produced share of the oil we consume to about 53 percent.

And two of our five largest foreign oil suppliers are next door - Canada and Mexico - which are more secure than Middle East sources.

Despite that, the price of oil and its related products continues to rise and of late has slowed US economic growth. America consumes more oil than anyplace else, but even our improving ability to control that thirst has limited impact on the price. Oil prices are set globally. Increasingly, they’re influenced by factors such as Chinese demand and subsidies for fuel consumption in prosperous but inefficient Middle Eastern nations. In addition, financial speculation plays a role. Taken together, these factors mean it’s likely that oil prices will remain volatile, and their impact on the US economy largely beyond US control.

In an increasingly inter-dependent world economy, shocks spread quickly. The US financial system has limited exposure to the Greek bonds at the center of the current European financial crisis. But US banks and money-market funds are invested in European banks, and they, in turn, are invested in Greece, Spain, Ireland and other struggling euro-economies. If things unravel across the Atlantic, this inter-dependency could further endanger the US economic recovery.

In addition, there’s the chance that foreign investors who hold much of the US debt may come to view America as Greece - at risk of defaulting on its debt. Washington is struggling over raising the government’s debt limit.

Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner has warned that if Congress doesn’t raise it by Aug 2, the nation will default on its debt.

In a recent breakfast meeting with reporters, Congressional Budget Office Director Douglas Elmendorf warned that flirting with default is dangerous because the US has never defaulted on its debt, and we are increasingly dependent on the outside world for finance. “That’s what makes it a gamble. Any government that has borrowed as much as ours has borrowed - and will need to borrow as much as ours will need to borrow - cannot take the views of its creditors lightly,” Elmendorf said. “Even a small increase in the perceived risk of Treasury securities would be very expensive for the country. If Treasury rates moved up by just 10 basis points (a tenth of a percentage point) over the next decade, that would add $130 billion to interest payments over the decade.” If Washington fails to address this problem by Aug 2, investors are likely to judge that US credit is not as reliable as it was, and they’ll raise interest rates on loans to government, businesses and individuals alike. No fireworks would celebrate that day. — MCT

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Opinion

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Russia’s evolving leadership

By Lauren Goodrich

R

ussia has entered election season, with parliamentary elections in December and presidential elections in March 2012.

Typically, this is not an issue of concern, as most Russian elections have been designed to usher a chosen candidate and political party into office since 2000. Interesting shifts are under way this election season, however. While on the surface they may resemble political squabbles and instability, they actually represent the next step in the Russian leadership’s consolidation of the state.

In the past decade, one person has consolidated and run Russia’s political system: former president and current Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. Putin’s ascension to the leadership of the Kremlin marked the start of the reconsolidation of the Russian state after the decade of chaos that followed the fall of the Soviet Union. Under Putin’s presidential predecessor, Boris Yeltsin, Russia’s strategic economic assets were pillaged, the core strength of the country - the KGB, now known as the Federal Security Service (FSB), and the military - fell into decay, and the political system was in disarray. Though Russia was considered a democracy and a new friend to the West, this was only because Russia had no other option - it was a broken country.

Perceptions of Putin Putin’s goal was to fix the country, which meant restoring state control (politically, socially and economically), strengthening the FSB and military and re-establishing Russia’s influence and international reputation - especially in the former Soviet sphere of influence. To do so, Putin had to carry Russia through a complex evolution that involved shifting the country from accommodating to aggressive at specific moments. This led to a shift in global perceptions of Putin, with many beginning to see the former KGB agent as a hard-nosed autocrat set upon rekindling hostilities and renewing militarization.

This perception of Putin is not quite correct. While an autocrat and KGB agent (we use the present tense, as Putin has said that no one is a former KGB or FSB agent), he hails from St. Petersburg, Russia’s most pro-Western city, and during his Soviet-era KGB service he was tasked with stealing Western technology. Putin fully understands the strength of the West and what Western expertise is needed to keep Russia relatively modern and strong. At the same time, his time with the KGB convinced him that Russia can never truly be integrated into the West and that it can be strong only with a consolidated government, economy and security service and a single, autocratic leader.

Putin’s understanding of Russia’s two great weaknesses informs this worldview. The first weakness is that Russia was dealt a poor geographic hand. It is inherently vulnerable because it is surrounded by great powers from which it is not insulated by geographic barriers.

The second is that its population is composed of numerous ethnic groups, not all of which are happy with centralized Kremlin rule. A strong hand is the only means to consolidate the country internally while repelling outsiders.

Another major challenge is that Russia essentially lacks an economic base aside from energy. Its grossly underdeveloped transportation system hampers it from moving basic necessities between the country’s widely dispersed economic centers. This has led Moscow to rely on revenue from one source, energy, while the rest of the country’s economy has lagged decades behind in technology. These geographic, demographic and economic challenges have led Russia to shift between being aggressive to keep the country secure and being accommodating toward foreign powers in a bid to modernize Russia.

Being from groups that understood these challenges, Putin knew a balance between these two strategies was necessary. However, Russia cannot go down the two paths of accommodating and connecting with the West and a consolidated authoritarian Russia at the same time unless Russia is first strong and secure as a country, something that has only happened recently.

Until then, Russia must switch between each path to build the country up - which explains shifting public perceptions of Putin over the past decade from pro-Western president to an aggressive authoritarian. It also explains the recent view of Putin’s successor as president, Dmitri Medvedev, as democratic and agreeable when compared to Putin. Neither leader is one or the other, however: Both have had their times of being aggressive and accommodating in their domestic and foreign policies. Which face they show does not depend upon personalities but rather upon the status of Russia’s strength.

Putin’s Shifts Putin, who had no choice but to appeal to the West to help keep the country afloat when he took office in 2000, initially was hailed as a trusted partner by the West. But even while former U.S. President George W. Bush was praising Putin’s soul, behind the scenes, Putin already was reorganizing one of his greatest tools - the FSB - in order

to start implementing a full state consolidation in the coming years.

After 9/11, Putin was the first foreign leader to phone Bush and offer any assistance from Russia. The date marked an opportunity for both Putin and Russia. The attacks on the United States shifted Washington’s focus, tying it down in the Islamic world for the next decade. This gave Russia a window of opportunity with which to accelerate its crackdown inside (and later outside) Russia without fear of a Western response. During this time, the Kremlin ejected foreign firms, nationalized strategic economic assets, shut down nongovernmental organizations, purged anti-Kremlin journalists, banned many anti-Kremlin political parties and launched a second intense war in Chechnya. Western perceptions of Putin’s friendship and standing as a democratic leader simultaneously evaporated.

Russia was already solidifying its strength by 2003, by which time the West had noticed its former enemy’s resurgence. The West subse-

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin arrives at the Nuclear Research Center of Dubna, 120 km north of Moscow, on July 5, 2011. – AFP quently initiated a series of moves not to weaken Russia internally (as this was too difficult by now) but to contain Russian power inside its own borders. This spawned a highly contentious period between both sides during which the West supported pro-Western color revolutions in several of the former Soviet states while Russia initiated social unrest and political chaos campaigns in, and energy cutoffs against, several of the same states.

The two sides were once again seriously at odds, with the former Soviet sphere now the battlefield. As it is easier for Russia to maneuver within the former Soviet states and with the West preoccupied in the Islamic world, Moscow began to gain the upper hand. By 2008, the Kremlin was ready to prove to these states that the West would not be able to counter Russian aggression.

By now, however, the Kremlin had a new president, Medvedev. Like Putin, Medvedev is also from the St. Petersburg clan. Unlike Putin, he was lawyer trained to Western standards, not member of the KGB. Medvedev’s entrance into the Kremlin seemed strange at the time, since Putin had groomed other potential successors who shared his KGB background. Putin, however, knew that in just a few years Russia would be shifting again from being solely aggressive to a new stance that would require a different sort of leader.

Medvedev’s New Pragmatism When Medvedev entered office, his current reputation for compliance and pragmatism did not exist. Instead, he continued on Russia’s roll forward with one of the boldest moves to date - the RussiaGeorgia war. Aside from the war, Medvedev also publicly ordered the deployment of short-range ballistic missiles to the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, on the Polish border, and to Belarus to counter US plans for ballistic missile defense. Medvedev also oversaw continued oil disputes with the Baltic states. Despite being starkly different in demeanor and temperament, Medvedev continued Putin’s policies.

Much of this was because Putin is still very much in charge of the country, but it is also because Medvedev also understands the order in which Russia operates: security first, pragmatism to the West after.

By 2009, Russia had proven its power in its direct sphere and so began to ease into a new foreign and domestic policy of duality. Only when Russia is strong and consolidated can it drop being wholly aggressive and adopt such a stance of hostility and friendliness. To achieve this, the definition of a “tandem” between Putin and Medvedev became more defined, with Putin as the enforcer and strong hand and Medvedev as the pragmatic negotiator (by Western standards). On the surface, this led to what seemed like a bipolar foreign and domestic policy, with Russia still aggressively moving on countries like Kyrgyzstan while forming a mutually beneficial partnership with Germany. With elections approaching, the ruling tandem seems even more at odds as Medvedev overturns many policies Putin put into place in the early 2000s, such as the ban on certain political parties, the ability of foreign firms to work in strategic sectors and the role of the FSB elite within the economy. Despite the apparent conflict, the changes are part of an overall strategy shared by Putin and Medvedev to finish consolidating Russian power.

These policy changes show that Putin and Medvedev feel confident enough that they have attained their first imperative that they can look to confront the second inherent problem for the country: Russia’s lack of modern technology and lack of an economic base.

Even with Russian energy production at its height, its energy technologies need revamping, as do every other sector, especially transit and telecommunication. Such a massive modernization attempt cannot be made without foreign help. This was seen in past efforts throughout Russian history when other strong leaders from Peter the Great to Josef Stalin were forced to bring in foreign assistance, if not an outright presence, to modernize Russia.

Russia thus has launched a multiyear modernization and privatization plan to bring in tens if not hundreds of billions of dollars to leapfrog the country into current technology and diversify the economy. Moscow has also struck deals with select countries - Germany, France, Finland, Norway, South Korea and even the United States - for each sector to use the economic deals for political means.

However, this has created two large problems. First, foreign governments and firms are hesitant to do business in an authoritarian country with a record of kicking foreign firms out. At the same time, the Kremlin knows that it cannot lessen its hold inside of Russia without risking losing control over its first imperative of securing Russia.

Therefore, the tandem is instead implementing a complex system to ensure it can keep control while looking as if it were becoming more democratic.

The Appearance of Democracy The first move is to strengthen the ruling party - United Russia while allowing more independent political parties. United Russia already has been shifted into having many sub-groups that represent the more conservative factions, liberal factions and youth organizations. Those youth organizations have also been working on training up the new pro-Kremlin generation to take over in the decades to come so that the goals of the current regime are not lost. In the past few months, new political parties have started to emerge in Russia something rare in recent years.

Previously, any political party other than United Russia not loyal to the Kremlin was silenced, for the most part. Beyond United Russia, only three other political parties in Russia have a presence in the government: the Communist Party, Just Russia and the Liberal Democratic Party of Russia. All are considered either pro-Kremlin or sisters to United Russia.

While these new political parties appear to operate outside the Kremlin’s clutches, this is just for show. The most important new party is Russia’s Right Cause launched by Russian oligarch Mikhail Prokhorov. Right Cause is intended to support foreign business and the modernization efforts. The party at first was designed to be led by Medvedev’s economic aide, Arkadi Dvorkovich, or Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin. However, the Kremlin thought that having a Kremlin member lead a new “independent” political party would defeat the purpose of showing a new democratic side to Russian’s political sphere. —Stratfor

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011 www.kuwaittimes.net

US singer Lady Gaga gives a press conference ahead of her showcase concert at the Marina Bay Sands yesterday in Singapore. —AP

Te c h n o l o g y FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Is the blogosphere only for

technogeeks?

Becoming a blogger is easy - staying one is the hard part

Y

ou don’t have to be a technogeek to keep your own blog. All that’s really required is a love of writing, a message and a bit of PR work to make sure your postings get noticed on social networking websites. Indeed, it’s never been easier to take your thoughts online and display them to a larger public. Of course, being a true blogger, putting up nearly daily messages, is a lot tougher. The many online blogs whose latest posting is months old are proof of that. So, what are the basics of blogging?

“You should have an opinion, have something to say, and be of the opinion that commentary on politics, everyday life, culture and life shouldn’t just be left to the media,” says Oliver Gassner, a German blog expert. A quick review of blog sites shows few surprises in the topics covered: the internet, news, music, web 2.0, other blogs, politics, photography and media. There are also plenty of blogs devoted to sports, lifestyle, design, fashion and every facet of cooking and eating.

Technology, science, everyday experiences and politics are some of the topics

covered by Joerg Kantel, who has blogged from Berlin for 11 years at Schockwellenreiter.de. Recently, he looked back to his start. “Naturally, back then, I never thought that I would change my life with this. Certainly not that I could keep doing this for so long and go down in history as kind of a weblog grandpa.” He says there are five requirements for blogging.

“Enjoying writing, enjoying research, having a message, a thick skin and an unquenchable desire to be published.”

The technical hurdles for blogging are low. It’s easiest to make the jump in with one of the multiple free internet services: there are classics like wordpress.com, blogger.com (Google), Xanga.com or LiveJournal, all of which let you start right away after registration. These all come with prepared layouts for your own texts and pictures. New bloggers get an internet address and visitors can leave comments.

Newer web services merge blogging with the functions of social networks. Posterous doesn’t just allow entries to be sent to the blog site via email, but also automatically puts them on Facebook or Twitter.

Tumblr has a different approach. It allows users to follow individual members and their entries which people can then copy (reblog) on their own Tumblr site. Storify bundles contents from social networks into entries. If you want to build up your blog from scratch, it means setting up your web presence with an internet address you’ve chosen yourself on server storage space rented from a hosting service. Fees are based on the scope and appearance of the website. It’s important to ask if the blog system you plan to use is supported.

WordPress remains the most popular service. Its software manages blogs and other websites with the help of an attached databank (MySQL). The layout can be individualized easily and there are more than 1,300 themes and 14,000 plug-ins, or expansions for specific functions. However, customising a standard WordPress site still requires some web know-how in HTML, CSS and, sometimes, the PHP scripting language.

Anyone who doesn’t want to commit to WordPress should take a look at Serendipity. Its Smarty tool makes it simple

to design layouts. “I like Serendipity because it’s kind of garage software, developed out of the hobby room,” says Peter Schmitt, who operates a fan blog for the Mainz 05 football team in Germany. “You have close contact to the developers and can ask for changes, bringing them straight to the right address in the forum.”

Of course, blogging really gets fun if you make a connection with someone. But it’s much harder than it used to be to build up a loyal following, says Christiane SchulzkiHaddouti, who blogs about net cooperation at KoopTech. “The blog needs to have a clear content direction and a reliable take on topics relevant to the target group.”

“Discussions in blogs only take place, in my experience, with explosive, controversial topics - or when you direct the blog yourself and enjoy commenting upon yourself,” she says. It’s a good idea, especially at the start, to constantly promote your blog on Twitter and Facebook and to participate in as many conversations as possible. “If you don’t do that, then you’re not allowed to wonder why the number of readers is declining,” she adds. — dpa

Relationships FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The best way to calm frazzled

furry pets Stressed schnauzer? Maybe massage or aromatherapy will help

Keri Block and her dog Bailey take part in Doggy Yoga at the City Arts Factory in Orlando, Florida. — MCT

T

he massage students worked diligently, following the instructor’s cues to use compression, percussion and finger-walking techniques as their subjects lay relaxed throughout the room. Suddenly, one of the clients leaped up with a great sense of urgency. She trotted away from her masseuse and sniffed her neighbor. So it goes when you’re teaching a room of pet owners the proper ways to rub and soothe their furry companions.

The group - eight women, five dogs and a few stand-in stuffed animals - assembled at a massage center. The class was organized by the Center for Animal Therapies, a new nonprofit that instructs pet owners how to communicate with and care for their animals. Students came from a variety of backgrounds, ranging from a hospice nurse to a woman hoping to start a pet-sitting service.

Keri Block, a proposal analyst, brought Bailey, a formerly abused dog whose nerv-

ous energy had started affecting the other dogs in her house. Bailey wasn’t an eager participant at first. While the humans got started with a deep breathing exercise, she walked in circles and wiggled her ears. But after lots of stylized stroking, she lay silently on her side, and Block could feel the calm.

“Wow,” Block whispered as she rubbed and the dog didn’t flinch. A few weeks after the class, she said massage has become a routine for all the dogs at her house. “Bailey will try to mooch and get some more,” Block said. Central Florida practitioners of alternative treatments for pets say interest in their services has surged in recent years.

So much so that Jo Maldonado, who founded the center this spring, has had to turn people away from classes on topics such as animal communication and using psychology and energy to train dogs.

“I think the pet owners’ level of consciousness is actually changing where they’re more aware of their animals’ needs

now than they were years ago,” Maldonado said. Sherri Cappabianca, a former software engineer, said that several years ago, people didn’t take her pet massage, acupressure and aromatherapy business seriously.

“People would walk by me and snicker,” she said, recalling an event she did about three years ago. “Now, it’s becoming, ‘Oh yes, I guess that would work.’ There is some mindset change that I am seeing.”

Cappabianca, who does house calls, just started her own publishing company, Off the Leash Press, and released Healthy Dogs, Your Loving Touch: Acupressure Massage for Your Dog in October. Cat Bruce, owner of PetsFirst, a pet-sitting company that offers holistic therapies, said pet care is simply catching up with evolving human lifestyles. “Everybody’s turning to a holistic, cleaner lifestyle, so of course the pets are going to come the same way with us,” said Bruce, who also offers belly-dancing classes and psychic readings - for people.

Maldonado said animal-communication classes are among the most popular at her center. But she’s not the only one in town offering to help people peer into the minds of their animal companions. Joan Ranquet, a Seattle-based animal communicator, recently started Communication with all Life University to offer certification in animal communication. She holds two weekend sessions a year at a farm in Osteen, Fla. At Maldonado’s center, teachers have included a veterinarian, a medium, a canine-behavior expert and even a bearresponse agent from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, who instructs on pet safety and wildlife. Classes are offered throughout the region - at animal shelters, clinics, studios. Eventually Maldonado hopes to have a permanent location that could double as an animal sanctuary and classroom space. She would like to incorporate more classes inspired by Native American shamanism. — MCT

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Fo o d FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

EVERYDAY COOKING

Refreshing mint lemon drink

Fresh mint tea 4 tea bags 12 fresh mint leaves 3 cup boiling water 1 cup orange juice 1/4 cup lemon juice 1 cup sugar 6 cup water Sprigs of mint Orange slices

P

ut tea bags and mint in a 3 quart pitcher, add 3 cups boiling water and steep until cool. Discard bags and mint leaves. Add orange juice, lemon juice, sugar and 6 cups water to tea mixture.

Stir until sugar is dissolved. Serve over ice. Makes 3 quarts.

40g fresh mint leaves 250ml cold water 50ml hot water 6 lemons, juiced 120g sugar 4 mint leaves, for garnish

S

tir the sugar into the hot water. Place mint leaves, water, lemons and hot water/sugar in a blender. Blend until mint leaves are evenly chopped. Cool the mixture in the refrigerator for an hour. Serve in cold glasses (refrigerate them for 15 mins) with mint.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Fo o d FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Mint lamb chops 1/4 cup olive oil 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint 4 large garlic cloves, minced 2 teaspoons salt 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 8 (1- to 1 1/2-inch-thick) lamb loin chops (about 5 ounces each), trimmed

P

lace olive oil, chopped fresh mint, minced garlic, salt, cumin, coriander, cayenne pepper, and black pepper in small bowl; mix well. Spread herb mixture over both sides of lamb chops. Transfer chops to broiler pan. Let stand 10 minutes. Preheat broiler. Broil chops until brown and crusty, about 4 minutes per side for medium-rare.

Arrange chops on platter, garnish with fresh mint sprigs, and serve.

Pea and mint soup

Mint chocolate chip cupcakes 1 cup sour cream 1 teaspoon baking soda 2 cups flour 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa powder 1 cup unsalted butter 1 cup granulated sugar 1/2 cup light brown sugar 1 teaspoon salt 2 eggs, plus 2 egg yolks 1 tablespoon vanilla

I 1 bunch spring onions 1 medium potato , peeled and diced 1 garlic clove , crushed 850ml vegetable or chicken stock 900g young peas in the pod 4 tbsp chopped fresh mint large pinch caster sugar 1 tbsp fresh lemon or lime juice 150ml buttermilk or soured cream

P

ut the spring onions into a large pan with the potato, garlic and stock. Bring to the boil, turn down the heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the potato is very soft. For the garnish, blanch 3 tbsp of the shelled peas in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, drain, put in a bowl of cold water and set aside. Add the remaining peas to the soup base and simmer for 5 minutes - no longer, or you will lose the lovely fresh flavour of the peas. Stir in the mint, sugar and lemon or lime juice, cool slightly then pour into a food processor or liquidiser and whizz until as smooth as you like. Stir in half the buttermilk or soured cream, taste and season with salt and pepper. To serve the soup cold, cool quickly, then chill - you may need to add more stock to the soup before serving as it will thicken as it cools. To serve hot, return the soup to the rinsed-out pan and reheat without boiling (to prevent the buttermilk or soured cream from curdling). Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with the remaining buttermilk and the drained peas.

n a bowl mix sour cream and baking soda together; set aside.

Sift flour and cocoa powder; set aside. Using a mixer beat butter and both sugars until light and fluffy. Add in salt and beat until combined. Add in eggs and beat until combined. Add in egg yolks and vanilla and beat until combined. Turn off mixer and use a sturdy spatula or a wooden spoon, add in sour cream mixture and flour mixture alternating in thirds. Fold in each rotation beginning with the sour cream and ending with the flour mixture, mixing each rotation until just combined. Fill cupcake liner two-thirds full. Bake at 350 degrees F for about 20-25 minutes.

Cucumber and mint salad 1 cucumber, sliced 1 cup sliced celery 1 (15 ounce) can garbanzo beans, drained 3 carrots, peeled and shredded 1/4 cup raisins 1 cup chopped fresh mint 2 tablespoons olive oil 3 tablespoons vinegar

P

lace the cucumber, celery, garbanzo beans, carrots, raisins, and mint in a large bowl, and toss with the olive oil and red wine vinegar to coat. Serve immediately.

THEY ARE THE 99!

99 Mystical Noor Stones carry all that is left of the wisdom and knowledge of the lost civilization of Baghdad. But the Noor Stones lie scattered across the globe - now little more than a legend. One man has made it his life’s mission to seek out what was lost. His name is Dr. Ramzi Razem and he has searched fruitlessly for the Noor Stones all his life. Now, his luck is about to change - the first of the stones have been rediscovered and with them a special type of human who can unlock the gem’s mystical power. Ramzi brings these gem - bearers together to form a new force for good in the world. A force known as ... the 99!

THE FASCINATING STORY OF THE 99 Baghdad lies in ruins, destroyed by the marauding armies of Hulagu Khan. The brave librarians of the great Dar Al-Hikma rush to save the glory of the ancient world’s accumulated wisdom, little knowing that centuries later their efforts will bear strange fruit. While the Noor Stones were created to save the library, their power has transcended that task and in our own time has provided extraordinary abilities to an international group of young people, the world’s newest superheroes known as… The 99.

The 99 ® and all related characters ® and © 2011, Teshkeel Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

www.the99.org

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Travel

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The summer’s best surf festivals Whether you’re after an old-school surf meet or a longboard bikini fest, here’s our round-up of the best surf festivals in the UK and beyond this summer.

1-Best for female surfers: Roxy Pro, Biarritz, Aquitaine, France, 1117 July Atmosphere: Clothing brand Roxy has made its women’s “Jam” part of the World Surfing Championship tour - renamed the Pro for this year - so expect to see the world’s best bikini-clad longboarders enjoying Biarritz’s sophisticated beach-bar culture.

Watch the event from the sand, or check out the art festival featuring photography, paintings and sculpture along the theme of “California”. Then grab a free surf lesson, and see live performances on Port Vieux beach by the Sounds, Pendentif, and Lilly Wood & The Prick.

2-Best for action Relentless Boardmasters, Fistral beach and Watergate Bay, Newquay, Cornwall, 10-14 August Atmosphere: The UK’s biggest surf, skate and music festival features a world class pro surfing event and 10 stages of live music, with more than 100 bands. This is no place for the faint of heart. Or liver

Spectating: Newquay’s Fistral beach turns into a self-contained mega surf city, where you can watch surfing, skateboarding and BMXing, and take part in activities - all for free each day Fuel up: The Headland Hotel at Fistral (headlandhotel.co.uk) offers views of the beach and good brunch and salads.

3-Best for beginners Fat Face Rock Up and Sea, Boscombe Beach, Bournemouth, 13 August Atmosphere: One of five Fat Face Rock Up and Sea surfing events being held across the south-west this summer, combining free surf lessons during the day with an exclusive after-party. Very suitable for beginners.

Spectating: Take part in some beach volleyball and other classic beach games, and then enjoy live music.

4-Best for back to basics Greenaway Pro, St Ives, Cornwall, 2-4 September Atmosphere: A welcome antidote to the large number of increasingly corpo-

rate surf festivals, the Greenaway Pro was launched three years ago as a memorial to local surfer and lifeguard Tom Greenaway.

Spectating: Expect competitions featuring the country’s best surfers, music from the likes of so-hot-right-now Ben Howard and the Mystery Jets, and two big beachfront covered areas chock full of locally sourced food and drink.

5-Best for music and surf Groundswell Festival, Hossegor, Aquitaine, France, 17 September Atmosphere: Set among the forests of Angresse, a few miles from the famous waves of Hossegor, this “surf/sound experience” is headlined by Kelis, Jason Mraz, Newton Faulkner and Felix Da Housecat.

Expect to find 15,000 punters revelling in the salty Atlantic air of Europe’s surf capital.

Spectating: Take your pick from the main stage, dance arena, grassroots stage or Action Sports Expo. Off site, wiggle your toes in the sand and watch Europe’s best surfers dual it out in a surf expression session.

6-Best for watching Kelly Slater Quiksilver Pro France, Hossegor, Aquitaine, France, 4-15 October Catch Kelly Slater at Quiksilver Pro France in Hossegor. Atmosphere: Kelly Slater and 32 of the world’s elite surfers converge to compete for more than $1m.

Spectating: With the sun shining and the Atlantic sparkling, join crowds of thousands for a great day at the beach.

Instead of making sandcastles, watch the world’s best surfers performing only metres from the shore 7-Best for longboarding Watergate ETL Surf Comp and FlowRider For Life, Watergate Bay, Cornwall, 8-9 October Atmosphere: The later date makes for potentially better waves for this stop on the European Longboard Tour. Expect great old-school surfing and grab a free lesson on the FlowRider (retallackresort.co.uk/flow-rider.php), Cornwall’s only fake standing wave.

—Guardian

A

y

e niv rsar n

Travel

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

New Zealand ’s island ruled by artists A stone’s throw from Auckland, the bohemian enclave of Waiheke Island has become a gallery-rich art destination. Our writer follows its sculpture trail.

Virginia King’s Lookout / Pacific Radiolaria.—Guardian

M

y first impressions of Waiheke Island are coloured by the sight of bare bottoms, all brightly painted in tinges of lime green, lemon yellow, electric blue and blushing pink. Sailing in from Auckland on the hourly Fullers ferry, we pass underneath a whole hillside of these cheeky sentinels, lifesized human figures standing stock-still and buck naked on the headland above Matiatia Bay. They were carved from wood and screenprinted to look three-dimensional by a sculptor named Christian Nicolson. His installation, titled Barebottomland and inspired by the Spike Milligan story Badjelly the Witch, was selected to open the biennial Sculpture on the Gulf festival which ran earlier this year.

There is talk of making it a permanent fixture, a way of saying “Welcome to Waiheke” that encapsulates the spirit of the place.

Which is not to say the place is a nudist colony (though two of its 100 white sand

beaches do operate a “clothing-optional” policy). It is merely to suggest that this island is ruled by artists and artisans.

The sculpture festival was founded by the Waiheke Community Art Gallery in 2002 as a showcase for the local creative element, who have turned the landscape into an open-air exhibition space. Following the coastal trail between the various featured artworks is like taking a nature walk through some parallel world where eight-foot totems of Super Mario - created by 13-year-old Timothy Sang - are built out of giant Lego blocks and planted on the clifftops.

A gigantic marine fossil seems to float over the harbour with an exoskeleton of electropolished steel. Luminescent boats shaped like fallen leaves are anchored to the shore below.

Some of these pieces were made by competing sculptors from Auckland - which is visible in silhouette as the sun goes down, just 18km

Flotsam by Paul Radford.—Guardian

across the Hauraki Gulf - or other parts of New Zealand. But this year’s first prize goes to Denis O’Connor, who has lived on Waiheke for more than 40 years, and is sometimes given the credit for establishing it as a bohemian enclave.

“I came over with the dropout generation,” says O’Connor, lying back on the grass beside his winning entry, a horsebox filled with chalk-like etchings and inscriptions - a metaphor for the mind of the artist that he has titled the Tangler’s Cave. “At that time, a lot of us were getting pretty fed up with the city, and Waiheke was known as a haven for what you might call ‘alternative lifestyles’.

Aucklanders used to joke that they could see a constant cloud of pot smoke hanging over the island.” The population has since grown to around 8,000, with another 3,400 arriving every summer to occupy their beach houses and holiday homes, the oldest of which are

traditional New Zealand “baches” - simple huts with timber walls. And with O’Connor leading by example, the “dropouts” have become considerably more productive.

Around the corner at the Toi Gallery (+64 9 372 2962, sallysmith.co.nz), which showcases the work of Sally Smith, among others, I am told that an artist named Chris Bailey is so in demand that they can barely keep his pieces on display. Invited to visit Bailey’s nearby workshop, I find him carving out a headstone for a recently deceased family member. “My heart is in the stone,” he says. A hulking Aucklander of mixed Irish and Maori descent, with a punch-bag hanging next to his workbench, he first came to Waiheke to escape the gang culture of the city’s west side. “I basically reinvented myself, away from all my peers,” says Bailey.

“This island lets you do that.” Having subsequently learned the tool-making techniques of his Te Aupouri ancestors, he started carving native wood, granite, andesite and basalt, based on tribal designs for weapons, paddles or anchor stones. “I love how all that stuff was essential, but also beautiful.” That stuff is now fashionable, for lack of a better word, and therefore marketable.

While we’re talking, he receives a phone call to tell him that his entry for the sculpture festival has already been sold. “I’ve got goose bumps, mate,” he says. “Every sale means I can pay a few bills, and order in some new stone.”

Most islanders will tell you that Waiheke is becoming more affluent, and many have turned to making their own breads, olive oils, sheep-milk cheeses and other high-end comestibles, to capitalise on the recent influx of wealthy retirees from the mainland.

According to Denis O’Connor, these newcomers “either loosen up, or get divorced”.

My hosts seem to belong in the first category. Gene O’Neill and Liz Eglinton were living what they call “corporate lives” in Auckland until 10 years ago, when they quit their jobs and built a guesthouse on 16 acres of island hillside, facing west toward the city and the sunset. Modelled on Waiheke’s old-style bach accommodations, but a great deal more luxurious, their Te Whau Lodge makes a tasteful and respectful case for gentrification, with nothing but local produce in evidence - from the soaps to the seafood and the wine cellar.

Sitting in the hot tub on their sun deck with a glass of syrah, I can’t see any signs of imminent class war. “Not likely,” says Liz. “There’s a pretty healthy relationship between the islanders and the people bringing money in.”

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Books

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Final Gifts: Understanding the Special Awareness, Needs, and Communications of the Dying

By Maggie Callanan and Patricia Kelley

I

n this moving and compassionate book, hospice nurses Maggie Callanan and Patricia Kelley share their intimate experiences with patients at the end of life, drawn from more than twenty years experience tending the terminally ill.

Through their stories we come to appreciate the nearmiraculous ways in which the dying communicate their

needs, reveal their feelings, and even choreograph their own final moments; we also discover the gifts-of wisdom, faith, and love-that the dying leave for the living to share. Filled with practical advice on responding to the requests of the dying and helping them prepare emotionally and spiritually for death, Final Gifts shows how we can help the dying person live fully to the very end.

The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom

The Five Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts

By Don Miguel Ruiz

By Gary Chapman

I

A

re you and your spouse speaking the same language? He sends you flowers when what you really want is time to talk. She gives you a hug when what you really need is a home-cooked meal. The problem isn’t your love - it’s your love language!

In this international best seller, Dr. Gary Chapman reveals how different people express love in different ways. In fact, there are five specific languages of love: Quality time, words of affirmation, gifts, acts of service, and physical touch. What speaks volumes to you may be meaningless to your spouse.

But here, at last, is the key to understanding each other’s unique needs. Apply the right principles, learn the right language, and soon you’ll know the profound satisfaction and joy of being able to express your love - and feeling truly loved in return.

n The Four Agreements, don Miguel Ruiz reveals the source of self-limiting beliefs that rob us of joy and create needless suffering.

Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the Four Agreements offer a powerful code of conduct that can rapidly transform our lives to a new experience of freedom, true happiness, and love. The Four Agreements are: Be Impeccable With Your Word, Don’t Take Anything Personally, Don’t Make Assumptions, Always Do Your Best.

All That Is Bitter and Sweet

By Ashley Judd , Maryanne Vollers

A

shley Judd is an award-winning film and stage actor known for her roles in both box-office hits and art-house gems, and the daughter and sister of country-music royalty. In 2002, drawing on a deep well of empathy, she found her true calling: as a humanitarian and advocate for those suffering in neglected parts of the world.

Asked why she was opting out of a successful career, walking away while she was one of the highest-paid women in Hollywood, Ashley herself could not provide an answer. She simply knew that after her first trip to the notorious brothels, slums, and

hospices of southeast Asia, her own life depended on advocating on behalf of the vulnerable. Promising each new sister, “I will never forget you,” Ashley began writing extraordinary diaries-on which this memoir is based-expanding her capacity to relate to, and to share with a global audience, stories of survival and resilience.

Along the way, Ashley realized that the coping strategies she had developed to deal with her own emotional pain, stemming from childhood abandonment, were no longer working. Seeking in-patient treatment in 2006 for the grief that had nearly killed her, Ashley found not only her own recovery and an enriched faith but an

expanded kit of spiritual tools that energized and advanced her feminist social justice work.

Now, in this deeply moving and unforgettable memoir, Ashley Judd describes her odyssey, as a left-behind lost child attains international prominence as a fiercely dedicated advocate. Her story ranges from anger to forgiveness, isolation to interdependence, depression to activism. In telling it, she resoundingly answers the ineffable question about the relationship between healing oneself and service to others.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Books

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Unlimited: How to Build an Exceptional Life

By Jillian Michaels

•

M

•

any self-help books offer a lot of new age platitudes and sappy mantras:

Just love yourself.

See the glass as half full.

Believe it and it will come.

Really? That’s not how it works, and you know it. A lifetime’s worth of struggle is not overturned in a small moment of positive thinking. But if you have the right attitude-attitude and skills-you can and will accomplish anything and everything you want.

This book gives you both, attitude and action. By its end you will have all the tools you need to change your life. No hype. No false promises.

•

•

The Happiness Project

By Gretchen Rubin

Transform your suffering into peace, wisdom, and strength.

Work through fear, worry, shame, and negative self-talk to blast through obstacles and create selfconfidence, self-esteem, and a healthy self-image.

Take powerful, informed, deliberate actions to make your dreams a reality.

B

retchen Rubin had an epiphany one rainy afternoon in the unlikeliest of places: a city bus. “The days are long, but the years are short,” she realized. “Time is passing, and I’m not focusing enough on the things that really matter.” In that moment, she decided to dedicate a year to her happiness project.

In this lively and compelling account, Rubin chronicles her adventures during the twelve months she spent test-driving the wisdom of the ages, current scientific research, and lessons from popular culture about how to be happier. Among other things, she found that novelty and challenge are powerful sources of happiness; that money can help buy happiness, when spent wisely; that outer order contributes to inner calm; and that the very smallest of changes can make the biggest difference.

Forget surviving: it’s your time to thrive. You do have the ability and potential to achieve unlimited health, wealth, and happiness. Getting there won’t all be easy-nothing worthwhile ever is-but take this journey and your life will change dramatically. Your possibilities are unlimited, and your life is waiting for you to break free and claim it.

You will learn to: Cultivate your passion and embrace your uniqueness to create a purpose-filled life . . .on your own terms.

Y

ou may be able to find these books in the following bookstores.

If not, you can ask for a special order and your books will be delivered within weeks.

Jarir Bookstore Location: Hawally Park, Tunis Street Telephone: 22610111

Al-Muthana Kuwait Bookstore Location: Al-Muthanna Complex, Fahed Al-Salem Street Tel: 22424266

Virgin Bookstore Location: Marina Mall, Salmiya

Better Books - Second Hand Books Location: Salmiya, Block 10, Amman Street.

Behind Al-Rashid Hospital Tel: 66637351

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Fa s h i o n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

7 ways to get a

beautiful complexion eautiful, flawless skin doesn’t just happen overnight. It takes work, perseverance, and most of all, patience. Here are 7 ways to get beautiful skin...keep these up and within a few weeks you’ll have amazing skin.

B

ing complexion it’s important that you consume at least 8 glasses of water a day. Oh and, no smoking! Smoking is not only horrible for your skin, but also for your hair, and well...pretty much everything else!

#1. Cleanse Morning and Night One of the most important steps in skin care is to cleanse your skin every single morning and every single night before bed. If you fall asleep with your makeup on, you’re basically giving bacteria a perfect breeding ground and you’ll wake up with some unwanted pimples.

#5. Let Your Skin Breathe If you must wear a concealer and foundation every day, make sure you remove it as soon as you get home.

The longer you wear foundation, the more you clog your pores so if you don’t need to wear it, don’t! If you do, just make sure you give your skin a breather and go without any foundation or concealer whenever you’re at home.

#2. Know Your Skin Type Whether your skin is dry, oily, or combination, you need to get the right products for your skin type. So if you have oily skin for example, make sure that your cleansers, toners, and moisturizers are designed for oily skin. Also, make sure your foundation matches up with your skin tone. Again, if you have oily skin you should stay away from heavy, cakey foundations and instead go with minerals. #3. Exfoliate Exfoliating gets rid of dead skin cells that can accumulate on your skin. This is important not only for your complexion but the rest of your body as well. Your skin cannot absorb creams and lotions if it has a layer of dead skin cells hanging around. Get a good, gentle exfoliator that you can use 2-3 times a week. Wet your face, and exfoliate very gently. If you’re too rough on your skin, you’ll just end up breaking the soft tissue and that’s when bacteria starts harboring. #4. Drink Plenty of Water Keeping a healthy diet is one of the most important things when it comes to skin. So if you want a beautiful, glow-

Treatment for dry skin when flying

W

hether a once a year vacation or weekly business meeting, when you visit the airport, your skin takes a beating. And dry skin is the most common com-

plaint.

Follow our skin care tips for the treatment for dry skin, so you can take care of your skin properly and arrive moisturized.

1. The Morning of Flight, Skip the Full Face Foundation Instead of foundation, go with a tinted moisturizer. You’ll have coverage without the drying effects of makeup. And if it’s less than three ounces, bring it along for a layover. Simply reapply if you’re feeling dry and flakey.

2. Buy a Bottle of Water for the Flight While you can’t bring it from home, you can pick one up at a convenience store or kiosk after you pass security. If you bring it from home, they’ll make you throw it away. Yes, you’ll get a beverage on flight usually, but if you have your own bottle, you’ll be more likely to drink it. Keeping hydrated on the inside will help your skin stay hydrated on the outside.

3. Put an Airport-Approved Body Moisturizer in your Carry-On Bag All liquids, including lotions have to be three ounces or less if you want to bring them in your carry on bag. You can purchase a small container of lotion or just purchase a travel bottle to fill with your own. Make sure you grab a small zip-lock bag to put them in when passing security. If you forget, they usually have one you can use. You may want to choose a neutral scent to avoid irritating your neighbor who may have an aversion to strong scents.

4. Bring a Hydrating Mist for In-Flight Treatment A hydrating mist such as Juice Beauty’s Hydrating Mist is perfect for in flight application. Simply spray a couple of pumps onto your face for instant hydration. It also feels great and helps cool you down if you’re on a warm airplane. (www.skincare.about.com)

#6. Take Vitamins I’m not much for taking pills, but vitamins are very important and there’s just no way we can get all of required our vitamins and minerals in one day.

To get beautiful skin make sure you take vitamins A, C, D, and E daily. An easier alternative would be to just take a daily multivitamin to help ensure you’re getting all of the nutrients your skin and body needs. #7. Pamper Your Skin Find time once a week to pamper your skin from head to toe. Exfoliate, moisturizer, and prepare an all-natural mask. This avocado and carrot cream mask is one of my favorites not only because it’s all natural but because it actually works. The avocado combined with the carrots leaves your skin feeling soft, fresh, and young again, so don’t forget to take some time out for yourself in indulge a little. (www.styletips101.com)

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Fa s h i o n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

How to wear

orange F

or a lot of people, orange is a hard color to pull off. Surprisingly though, orange is a very flattering color since it instantly adds a natural glow to your skin tone. This spring, designers lit up the runways with a range of vibrant tangerines, neon oranges and amped-up corals that looked yummy and wearable all at once. But if you’re not used to wearing orange, it can seem a little tricky. So here’s how to make sure you’re wearing the right hues at the right time.

If you decide to wear orange near your face, such as a top, a hat or accessories, pick vibrant shades of mango for olive-to-dark skin tone. If you’re a little paler, opt for more muted orange shades such as a sunset color. When trying on garments at the store, just hold up the item near your face; if it makes your eyes pop and brightens

up your face, you’ve got a winner. But if it makes you look pale or drab, put it back!

Also, when you’re wearing statement colors such as orange, you have to be able to stand out, and not your clothing.

Don’t let the garment take over you, YOU should take over the garment and wear it confidently.

If you want to sport a crazy neon orange but you’re afraid it will look bad against your skin tone, grab something that is away from the face such as a belt or a pair of shoes. Also, rememeber that you can transition slowly into a new color by taking on a few pieces that have just a hint of orange. After which, you can gradually progress. (www.styletips101.com)

Rules for summer work wear W

hen the temperature rises, inhibitions plummet. To avoid the distractions and embarrassment that occur when employees wear attire that is too revealing or sends the message that their comfort is more important than their clients’ business, many companies put out comprehensive summer dress codes.

“It may seem silly asking employees not to wear flip-flops or T-shirts with provocative slogans,” admits Smith. “But it’s not nearly as awkward as having to tell a woman in a halter top and mini-skirt she needs to go home and change.”

Smith has been administering the dress code at his mid-size brokerage company for 10 years.

Recently, he has seen a shift in dress code offenders. “It used to be the men who would push the envelope — coming in with Bermuda shorts and boat shoes with no socks.

Today, the violators are more likely to be women wearing clothes that show too much skin, leave too little to the imagination and scream ‘I’d rather be clubbing!’”

Wearing the wrong thing hurts your image and casts doubt on your sense of judgment. Yet while you don’t want to look like a beach bum or floozy, you also don’t want to be the most buttoned-down, uptight guy or gal in the office. How can you get it right? Here are some general rules to keep in mind when dressing to beat the heat: Follow the Leader Levels of formality vary by geog-

to wear, think Diane Sawyer or Condoleezza Rice, not Britney Spears or Paris Hilton.

Layer Light Fabrics.

Stay cool in lightweight materials such as silk, cotton, linen, or summer-weight wool and cotton blends. Remember to dress in layers — the difference in temperature between the outdoors and your airconditioned office can be 30 degrees or more.

raphy, industry and corporate culture. The best guides for what to wear are the executives, middlemanagers and authority figures where you work. For example: While not wearing pantyhose would be a major faux pas at many companies, wearing hose in the summer months at certain ad agencies would be seen as decidedly unhip.

Even if your company has an informal style, employers still want you

to look professional.

Be Polished A relaxed dress code doesn’t mean you can be a slob. Make sure your clothes are clean and pressed.

Since lightweight fabrics tend to be sheer, check your reflection under bright lighting to make sure your undergarments don’t show through. If your company allows open-toe or backless shoes, make

sure your feet and toenails are clean and cared for.

Don’t Flash the Flesh.

Women in all professions should know they’re not advancing their careers when they wear revealing clothing. Short shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops and low-cut or sheer blouses may get you attention, but not necessarily the raise or promotion you want. When choosing what

Have a Cover-Up Ready.

For those days when the office air-conditioning is on the fritz, you may need to bend the rules. But always keep a lightweight neutral blazer at the office so you can slip it on in case the CEO or an important client decides to drop by.

Despite the comprehensive summer dress policy he established, Smith has already been called several times to advise managers on the best way to tell employees their apparel is questionable. Smith says next year he will add the following caveat in bold: “If you think a piece of clothing could be inappropriate for the office, it probably is.” (www.careerbuilder.com)

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Health

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Free exercise: No money? No sweat

Here’s how to get your exercise on the cheap

E

ven the most passionate workout-deniers will give walking a go. Just don’t limit yourself to your local park. Writer and walker David Cotton has put together a wonderfully detailed log of 800 tried-andtested walks in Britain. Explore his brilliant website, then get out and explore the country on foot.

Forrest Gump made it look absurdly easy, but even if you don’t turn out to be a natural at ping pong, you’ll have a laugh trying. There are tables all over the country, and the UK table tennis body, the ETTA, has a handy map on its website to help you find one close by.

Most gyms offer free day-long trials - some even do a whole week - so why not take advantage? It’s only a tiny bit cheeky to abuse this kindness at several gyms. Contact your local gym to see what they can offer.

If you live in the capital, now is the time to join those Zen men in loose shirts throwing strange poses in the park. Tai Chi In The Park offers free taster sessions of this gentle yet energizing exercise across London parks throughout the summer.

At the other end of the spectrum, a more vigorous and demanding workout is on offer with free sessions from

British Military Fitness. You’ll be trained by serving or former members of the armed forces, and the organizers promise it’s not a boot camp but great fun.

Dust off your rollerblades, or borrow a pair from a teenage boy, and get skating in the streets with the London Friday Night Skate and Sunday Stroll.

Skates are marshalled and last about two hours, weaving through the city past some great sights. Hundreds of people of all abilities take part, but the organizers recommend you master some basic skating skills before you give it a go.

Adults skateboarding do not look good. You’ll probably fall off, you might hurt yourself and, in the worstcase scenario, you’ll fork out for a skateboard that will sit in your attic for the rest of your life. Who cares, though, when you’re on a mission to get fit? Try everything once and you might find something you stick at. It probably won’t be skateboarding, but don’t let that put you off.

Start working on your running PB (that’s personal best, non-runners) with free weekly 5km timed runs in parks around the country, organised

by Park Run. Dancing doesn’t feel like a sport,

but it’s still a great way to work out. A full-on session at a good club night works all your major muscle groups.

We recommend disco, house and techno. Stick to water if you’re trying to keep the weight off. Alternatively, find a style that suits you and take classes from as little as £5 for 90 minutes. Dance UK has a list of regional dance agencies on its website, so you can find out what’s on offer in your area.

YouTube has a huge number of exercise tutorials you can follow in the comfort of your own home. The fourminute Dance Workout With Barbie - a psychedelic 90s vision in neon pink - is an interesting place to start. Look out for Jennifer Love Hewitt, aged about 13, pumping the air in the background. Laughter is a great way to tone your abs.

Swimfit has a terrific selection of free online coaching tools and training programs on its website. Get clued up, then swim on a budget at your local pool. We have no evidence to support this, but feel lidos and outdoor pools may carry a lower germ and verruca risk.

If you haven’t got a penny to spare, or just like your swim a bit wilder, check out the wild swimming website

to find your nearest (and safest) lake, river or seashore.

Muscle-bound Madonna is famously devoted to Pilates, and it is a great way to improve flexibility, muscle tone and core strength. Many centers across the UK offer free taster classes just keep in mind the difference between toned and ripped.

Nordic walking, the technique favored by stony-faced hikers in headto-toe Gore-Tex, thrusting poles up and down as they go, provides a full body workout. South Downs Nordic Walkers in Crawley are offering free taster sessions.

If you’re allergic to Gore-Tex, literally or metaphorically, get outdoors, get fit and make a difference by becoming a gardening volunteer with the National Trust for Scotland.— Guardian

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Health

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

What you need to know about salt S

alt, also known as sodium chloride, is made up of 40 per cent sodium and 60 per cent chloride. Found predominantly in pre-prepared foods, excessive salt consumption has been linked with high blood pressure and stomach cancer, and can exacerbate osteoporosis and asthma.

Why is it needed?

The sodium component of salt is vital for controlling the amount of water in the body, maintaining the normal pH of blood, transmitting nerve signals and helping muscular contraction. Salt is present in all foods in varying degrees, and almost all processed foods contain added salt.

Daily requirements Sodium, unlike all other minerals, is generally overconsumed, with the dietary intake of salt in the UK being far in excess of the recommended daily requirement.

Adults are advised to consume no more than 6g salt per day (about one teaspoon). Current intake is about 9g per day - thats 50 per cent higher than is recommended for good health. Babies and children should have less salt than adults.

High salt intake in babies can be especially dangerous, as their kidneys cannot cope with large amounts.

Reducing salt intake The government has set a target of reducing the average salt consumption of adults to 6g per day by 2010. This is a challenging but achievable goal, which will bring measurable improvements in health. A study published in the scientific journal Hypertension in 2003 estimated that a reduction in salt intake to 6g per day would lead to a 13 per cent reduction in stroke and a 10 per cent reduction in ischaemic heart disease.

People who have experienced heart problems or have high blood pressure should follow a low-salt diet and take advice from their health care professional.

Reducing sodium has been proven to be one of the best ways of lowering high blood pressure, especially in combination with broader dietary changes.

How to reduce sodium intake Convenience foods, ready meals and canned foods, as well as eating out frequently, all contribute to a higher sodium intake, so read labels carefully to compare foods and opt for those lower in salt.

Some labels provide both the salt and the sodium content within the product. This can be confusing, as the two are not interchangeable - 1g of salt contains 0.4g sodium (remember salt is made up of sodium AND chloride).

•

If you’re checking labels, here’s a guide based on 100g/ml of product: •A lot of salt = 1.25g salt (or 0.5g sodium) - would be labelled as red on a traffic light labelling system •A little salt = 0.25g salt (0.1g sodium) would be labelled as green on a traffic light labelling system •Anything in-between these figures indicates a moderate amount of salt More ways to reduce salt intake: •Use fresh or dried herbs and spices to flavour vegetables •Avoid adding salt to your food when eating •Use soy sauce sparingly: one teaspoon contains about 0.36gof sodium (equivalent to 0.9g salt) •Buy fresh or frozen vegetables, or those canned without salt •Rinse canned foods, such as beans, to remove excess salt •Choose breakfast cereals that are lower in sodium •Buy low or reduced sodium versions, or those with no salt added Too much salt Symptoms of increased salt intake include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. High concentrations of sodium in the body can also result from excessive water or fluid loss. Persistently high levels of sodium in the blood can

result in swelling, high blood pressure, difficulty in breathing, and heart failure, and may be fatal.

A high dietary salt intake is an important causal factor in the development of hypertension (high blood pressure), which currently affects 32 per cent of men and 30 per cent of women in the UK. Hypertension increases the risk of strain on the heart, enlarges the heart muscle, prevents an adequate blood (and therefore oxygen) supply from reaching the heart, and may lead to heart failure, angina or heart attack.

Sodium deficiency This is rare because our dietary intake is so high, but levels of sodium in the body can become too low as a result of prolonged illness. Sodium levels can also become low due to dehydration or excessive or persistent sweating, which may occur during very hot weather or affect marathon runners, athletes in triathlons, or people with certain forms of kidney disease, such as acute kidney failure.

Symptoms of a deficiency of sodium include headache, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, drowsiness, fainting, fatigue and possibly coma.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Arts

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

A record-breaking Sotheby’s auction has punctured the boom-time illusion that the art of today is common property

One of Damien Hirst’s ‘spot paintings’ fetched over £1m at the Sotheby’s auction. —Guardian

We don’t own modern art - the super-rich do

A

rt is a luxury, the ultimate luxury.

Imagine the glory of having an original work of art by a great artist on your wall. It beats the best car, the best helicopter. Art is money and if you want people to know your wealth, you must buy art.

Sorry if this imaginary blurb for the art market seems offensive, but that is kind of the idea. The market in modern art is truly offensive. It is becoming more sickening by the day. This week saw businesses go bust and an entire nation on the edge of the economic abyss. In Britain, famous high street names such as Thorntons and Habitat hit the buffers. In Greece, riot police held back protesters as punitive austerity measures were imposed by parliament.

Meanwhile, a sale of modern art at Sotheby’s on Wednesday night made £108.8m, a London record according to the auctioneers. A Bacon went for £8.3m, a Warhol portrait of Deborah Harry for £3.7m. Spectacular sums were also paid for works by German contemporary artists, while a Damien Hirst spot painting topped a million quid, suggesting he is still attractive to the people he needs to be attractive to.

But who are they, these people? I would genuinely like to know. The popular assumption seems to be that today’s art collectors are “Russian oligarchs”. Certainly the spectacle of Roman Abramovich’s yacht drew attention to the oligarchic presence at this year’s Venice Biennale.

One thing is certain - the big-time buyers

of art are people in the financial sector who are weathering our troubled times a lot better than high street businesses, nations picked on by Standard & Poor’s, or public sector workers.

And yet, for the last couple of decades, contemporary art has flourished through an alliance of the rich and the not-so-rich. It is the same educated, probably public-sectoremployed middle class (many of whom marched this week) that enthusiastically vis-

it galleries and art fairs. It is these fans of modern art who have helped, by their acclaim, to generate the charisma that makes it apparently worth so many millions.

In the 1990s, a credit-fuelled sense of affluence made the excesses of the art market seem fine, even entertaining. Besides, contemporary art has a dual nature. On the one hand it is - like all fine art down the ages - a plaything of the rich. But that is not the whole story. It is also a public art.

Spectacular installations, accessible videos such as The Clock, and free display spaces like the Tate Turbine Hall, make the art of today a common property, capable of communicating in exciting ways across nations and generations. It has a utopian aspect.

So spare us the conservative attacks on modern art. I do not think the prices paid for Warhol or Bacon reflect on the artists themselves - as it happens, a lot of good art changed hands at the Sotheby’s sale. And for all the fuss over the Abramovich yacht, the reality is that people from all walks of life are visiting the Venice Biennale this summer and finding it, as I did, a stimulating overview of the best new art on the planet.

But how long can this go on? How will the growing, grotesque disparity between our belief that we “own” modern art and the glaring reality that it is bought and sold by the super-rich, survive these times? In 2009, Athens was being touted as a rising contemporary art centre, with collectors, fairs, new galleries. Art is fully globalised, and seems to be operating as a separate world system while all around it crashes. I am not prophesying disaster for it. If people go on believing in it, art may even be a clue to the survival and recovery of world capitalism. On a more local level, if British people keep on loving new art even as the rich carry it home, it probably also means the coalition is destined to a decade or so of power and the left is toast. Or if the times here and elsewhere prove harder to stabilise, if the rocks in the road get bigger well, the art system will probably still go on. But will we be looking? —Guardian

A

y

e niv rsar n

Fe a t u re

Years

Five myths about the American flag

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

W

e Americans love our flag. We display it at concerts and stadiums to celebrate, and at times of national tragedy to show our resolve. We have our schoolchildren pledge allegiance to it and we have consecrated it in our national anthem Yet the iconography and history of the American flag, especially its early history, are infused with myth and misrepresentation. Here are five of the most prevalent myths.

1. Betsy Ross made the first American flag.

The Betsy Ross story is the most tenacious piece of fiction involving the flag. There simply is no credible historical evidence - letters, diaries, newspaper accounts, bills of sale - that Ross (then known as Elizabeth Claypoole) either made or had a hand in designing the American flag before it made its debut in 1777.

The story cropped up in 1870, almost 100 years after the first flag was supposedly sewn, when William Canby, Ross’s grandson, told the Historical Society of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia that his grandmother made the flag at George Washington’s behest. Canby’s sole evidence: affidavits from family members. The iconic 1893 painting of Ross sitting in her Philadelphia parlor with the sun beaming down on the flag in her lap is a scene invented by Charles H Weisgerber, the artist and entrepreneur who profited from the Betsy Ross legend.

While Ross did make flags in Philadelphia in the late 1770s, it is all but certain that the story about her creating the American flag is a myth.

As President Woodrow Wilson, who presided over the first official national Flag Day on June 14, 1916, is said to have replied when asked his thoughts on the story: “Would that it were true.”

2. The red, white and blue colors symbolize American sacrifice.

No federal law, resolution or executive order exists providing an official reason for the flag’s colors - or their meaning. The closest thing to an explanation are the words of Charles Thomson, the secretary of the Continental Congress, who was instrumental in the design of the Great Seal of the United States. Thomson’s report to Congress on June 20, 1782, the day the seal was approved, contained a description of the colors, the same as those in the flag: “White signifies purity and innocence. Red hardiness and valor and Blue signifies vigilance, perseverance and justice.”

Various official documents and proclamations - including one by President Ronald Reagan marking 1986 as the “Year of the Flag” - have echoed that reasoning.

But the colors do not have, nor have they ever had, any official imprimatur.

Historians believe that the use of red, white and blue in the Stars and Stripes has to do with the simple fact that they were the colors of the first flag of the American colonies, the Continental Colors. And there is little doubt where the red, white and blue of the Continental Colors came from: the Union Jack of England.

3. The Pledge of Allegiance has long been recited in Congress and other governmental bodies.

The pledge was written by magazine editor Francis Bellamy in 1892 for a nationwide public school celebration of the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s landing. In 1898, during the Spanish American War, New York became the first state to mandate that public school students recite the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each school day. Many states followed suit, and the pledge remained a staple of the daily routine in many

schools until 1988, when it became an issue in the presidential campaign.

Vice President George HW Bush criticized his opponent, Democrat Michael Dukakis, for vetoing a bill as governor of Massachusetts that would have required the pledge to be recited in public schools. Dukakis said he did so after being advised that the law was unconstitutional.

At the height of the campaign, on Sept. 13, 1988, the pledge was recited on the floor of the House of Representatives for the first time.

Republican members of the House, who were in the minority, offered a resolution to that effect, and it was accepted by Speaker Jim Wright, a Democrat.

Wright ruled that from then on, the pledge would be recited at the start of business each day that the House was in session.

The Senate did not begin daily recital of the pledge until June 24, 1999.

Since then, the pledge has become part of the opening rituals of nearly all state and local governmental bodies.

4. It is illegal to burn the American flag.

It was illegal until 1989, when the Supreme Court ruled 5 to 4 in Texas v Johnson that burning the flag is a form of symbolic speech protected by the First Amendment. The case involved Gregory Lee Johnson, a member of the Revolutionary Communist Youth Brigade, who had burned the flag during a protest at the 1984 Republican National Convention. He was convicted of violating Texas’s flag-desecration law, fined $2,000 and sentenced to a year in jail. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals overturned the conviction, ruling that Johnson was exercising his First Amendment right to freedom of speech.

The Supreme Court’s decision invalidated a 1968 national flag-desecration law, as well as similar laws in 48 states

(all except Wyoming and Alaska). In response, Congress passed the Flag Protection Act, but that law was also challenged and wound up in the Supreme Court. The court in 1990 essentially affirmed its earlier ruling, stating that any law banning flag burning violated free speech.

Those decisions led to a national movement to amend the Constitution to make flag desecration illegal. The leading voice in that effort has been the Citizens Flag Alliance, which was founded in 1994 by the American Legion.

Proposed amendments have come up regularly in the House and Senate since then but have yet to receive sufficient support.

5. It’s okay to wear a Stars and Stripes T-shirt.

The U.S. Flag Code frowns on the use of the flag “for advertising purposes.” It goes on to warn against the sale or display of any “article of merchandise .?.?. upon which shall have been printed, painted, attached, or otherwise placed a representation of” the flag to “advertise, call attention to, decorate, mark, or distinguish the article or substance on which so placed.”

In other words, when you wear a flag T-shirt or hat while reclining on an American flag beach towel near your American flag camping chair, you are violating the Flag Code. The code, which was drawn up at the first National Flag Conference in Washington in 1923, is part of the law of the land. But it is not enforced, nor is it enforceable. It is merely a set of guidelines, letting Americans know what to do - and what not to do - with our red, white and blue national emblem. There is no Flag Police. You will not be arrested for wearing a flagembossed T-shirt on Flag Day - or any other day of the year. (www.washingtonpost.com)

Comic

C R O S S W O R D

3 7 2

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

To Yester

Word Sleuth Solution

Yesterday’s Solution

ACROSS 1. Relating to a recently developed fashion or style.

4. Cuban socialist leader who overthrew a dictator in 1959 and established a socialist state in Cuba (born in 1927).

10. Inquire about.

13. Goddess of criminal rashness and its punishment.

14. Regarded with deep or rapturous love (especially as if for a god).

15. Aircraft landing in bad weather in which the pilot is talked down by ground control using precision approach radar.

16. Abounding in rocks or stones.

18. Small cubes with 1 to 6 spots on the faces.

19. Thigh of a hog (usually smoked).

20. A cavity in the mesoderm of an embryo that gives rise in humans to the pleural cavity and pericardial cavity and peritoneal cavity.

22. A hard gray lustrous metallic element that is highly corrosion-resistant.

24. The sixth month of the civil year.

25. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for the sale of petroleum.

27. Of or relating to a dialect of Sotho or the Bantu people who speak it.

29. By chance.

33. A state in northwestern North America.

36. Made of fir or pine.

37. Preaching the gospel of Christ in the manner of the early church.

41. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens.

43. A flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism.

44. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

45. An ugly evil-looking old woman.

46. A city in western Germany near the Dutch and Belgian borders.

49. An official prosecutor for a judicial district.

50. A wired or starched collar of intricate lace.

55. Any of numerous local fertility and nature deities worshipped by ancient Semitic peoples.

59. An Arabic speaking person who lives in Arabia or North Africa.

60. (Babylonian) A demigod or first man.

63. A benevolent aspect of Devi.

64. Immense East Indian fruit resembling breadfruit of.

65. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables.

66. A recurring sleep state during which dreaming occurs.

67. A Loloish language.

68. A city in southern Turkey on the Seyhan River.

69. (Irish) Mother of the ancient Irish gods.

DOWN 1. Made from residue of grapes or apples after pressing.

2. A member of the Siouan people inhabiting the valleys of the Platte and Missouri rivers in Nebraska.

3. Remove the claws from (a cat).

4. Alligator-like reptile of Central and South America having a more heavily armored belly.

5. A public promotion of some product or service.

6. Surface layer of ground containing a matt of grass and grass roots.

7. A plant of the genus Kniphofia having long grasslike leaves and tall scapes of red or yellow drooping flowers.

8. A summary that repeats the substance of a longer discussion.

9. A lyric poem with complex stanza forms.

10. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey).

11. Someone who works (or provides workers) during a strike.

12. God of love and erotic desire.

17. A member of an aboriginal people living in the hills in southeastern India.

21. A constellation in the southern hemisphere near Telescopium and Norma.

23. Any of a number of fishes of the family Carangidae.

26. The square of a body of any size of type.

28. A brace that extends from the rear of the keel to support the rudderpost.

30. Not only so, but.

31. A large bundle bound for storage or transport.

32. A feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause).

34. Mentally or physically infirm with age.

35. The cry made by sheep.

38. An intensely radioactive metallic element that occurs in minute amounts in uranium ores.

39. Stairway in India leading down to a landing on the water.

40. A Powhatan Indian woman (the daughter of Powhatan) who befriended the English at Jamestown and is said to have saved Captain John Smith's life (15951617).

41. Surface layer of ground containing a matt of grass and grass roots.

42. Having undesirable or negative qualities.

47. A compartment in front of a motor vehicle where driver sits.

48. A coffee cake flavored with orange rind and raisins and almonds.

51. Any of various strong liquors distilled from the fermented sap of toddy palms or from fermented molasses.

52. German organist and contrapuntist (1685-1750).

53. A small cake leavened with yeast.

54. The complete duration of something.

56. A sensation (as of a cold breeze or bright light) that precedes the onset of certain disorders such as a migraine attack or epileptic seizure.

57. A primeval personification of air and breath.

58. A Tibetan or Mongolian priest of Lamaism.

61. A doctor's degree in education.

62. A loose sleeveless outer garment made from aba cloth.

Yesterday’s Solution

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Adele, Lady Gaga power US music recovery

B

ritish soul singer Adele and flamboyant pop singer Lady Gaga have helped the US music industry stage a modest comeback after a decade of decline. According to data released on Wednesday by tracking firm Nielsen SoundScan, overall album sales rose 3.6 percent to 221.5 million units during the first half of 2011, the first increase since 2004. While it is too early to judge if the trend will last through the year, an annual increase would be only the second in 11 years. To be sure, the year got off to a rough start, with overall weekly sales hitting record lows several times.

But Adele and Lady Gaga have restored some hope to an industry battered by piracy, label retrenchment and the recession.

Adele sold 2.5 million copies of her second album “21” in the 19 weeks after it went on sale in late February. It spent 10 nonconsecutive weeks at No 1 and never dipped below No 3. “21” easily outpaced Lady Gaga’s second effort, “Born This Way,” which has sold 1.5 million copies-albeit after only six weeks. But Lady Gaga’s sales slumped after a record-breaking first week when it sold 1.1 million copies with help from a 99 cent promotion on Amazon.com. “Born this Way” currently ranks at No 12 on the latest weekly chart, while “21” is at No 2.

‘Rolling’ to no 1 Adele’s success has been powered by her charttopping hit single “Rolling in the Deep,” the best selling digital track so far this year with 4.1 million downloads. The title track of Lady Gaga’s album was No 3 with 2.9 million units, just behind perky pop singer Katy Perry’s “ET” with 3 million units.

While Lady Gaga has been ubiquitous on the worldwide promotional trail in a staggering array of colorful costumes, Adele has adopted a relatively low-key approach for her confessional album.

She recently postponed the remaining nine dates of her sold-out tour of mid-sized North American venues because of throat problems.

The success of “21” revived sales of Adele’s 2008 debut, “19,” which yielded two Grammy Awards including best new artist. It sold 341,000 copies during the first half to rank as the top-selling “catalog” release among albums that were distributed more than 18 months ago. Its total sales stand at 1.2 million copies.

The third-biggest selling artist so far this year is another soulful British act, the folk revivalists Mumford & Sons, who have sold 982,000 copies of their 2009 debut “Sigh No More,” thanks in part to attention-grabbing performances at the Grammys and the Coachella music festival in California. Its total sales are currently 1.6 million.

Country singer Jason Aldean’s “My Kinda Party” (763,000) and pop/R&B singer Bruno Mars’ “DooWops & Hooligans” (686,000) rounded out the top five. More than 40 years after their breakup, the Beatles managed to top one chart during the first half. Their 1969 album “Abbey Road” was the No 1 vinyl release, selling 20,200 copies. —Reuters

In this film publicity image released by Warner Bros Pictures, Charlie Day, left, and Jennifer Aniston are shown in a scene from ‘Horrible Bosses.’ —AP

Aniston goes raunchy for

‘Horrible Bosses’ I

n her new film, “Horrible Bosses,” Jennifer Aniston’s character is one you haven’t seen her play before. She’s a dentist who sexually harasses her assistant, complete with lewd dialogue, revealing outfits and outlandish advances. She’s the latest actress to take on a raunchy role usually reserved for men, following the recent trail of trash talk from Cameron Diaz in “Bad Teacher” and the cast of “Bridesmaids.” Better known for playing sweeter characters in romantic comedies, Aniston acknowledges that her “Bosses” role is a “departure,” but she says she couldn’t resist sinking her “teeth into something this juicy.” “The minute it showed up at my door and I read her first scene I was dying to do it,” the actress said in a recent interview to promote the film, which opens Friday. Aniston also admits,

however, that when it came time to do the character, she wondered what she had gotten herself into.

“The truth is when you get there you go, ‘Oh God, now I have to do this, like, in front of people,”‘ she said. Aniston refers to one scene where she’s trying to blackmail her assistant (Charlie Day) into having an affair with her using photos she took of him while he was unconscious.

“It’s like, you think it’s so hysterical and great,” she explains, “but then comes the day when you actually have to straddle sweet Charlie Day with his pants down and it’s just that day, you’re like, ‘Oh God. I choose to do this, right?’ Yes.” The 42year-old actress declined to comment on her reported relationship with Justin Theroux, her co-star in the upcoming film “Wanderlust” and someone she’s been

seen with around New York City.

She does concede she’s spending more time in Manhattan these days, amid media reports she just purchased a West Village apartment. But while she loves being in New York, Aniston says she hasn’t abandoned her home base in Los Angeles. Instead, she says she’ll “be bopping back and forth” for now. As for reports that she “stole” Theroux from his girlfriend, Aniston says she just blocks out that sort of press as much as she can. “You turn it off. You can’t listen to it. It’s toxic.

It’s noise. It’s soap opera stories. It’s headlines. It’s selling magazines,” she says.

Aniston says while such news coverage is “part of our culture, unfortunately,” she doesn’t understand it. “People don’t like good news. People want bad news sometimes.”—AP

Sales slide in US for Beyonce’s new chart-topper

R&B

Chris Martin, lead singer of English band Coldplay, gestures during their concert Wednesday, July 6 2011, at the Optimus Alive music festival in Lisbon. —AP

singer Beyonce went to No 1 on the US pop album chart with her fourth consecutive release on Wednesday, although its sales were the lowest of her solo career. Her new album “4” sold 310,000 copies during the week ended July 3, according to tracking firm Nielsen SoundScan-about the same amount as the next four albums combined. Her previous release, the double-disc “I Am ...

Sasha Fierce,” sold 482,000 copies during its first week of sale in November 2010, fueled by the hits “If I Were a Boy” and “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It).”

Her first solo outing away from Destiny’s Child, “Dangerously in Love,” started with 317,000 in 2003, while 2006’s “B-Day” opened with 541,000. The new album has not yet had the benefit of a hit single, with “Run the World (Girls)” stalling at No 29 on Billboard magazine’s Hot 100 singles chart. It is now at No 84.

Executives at her Sony Music label have been on the counterattack in recent days after the album leaked on June 7 and fans took to the Web to give it a lukewarm reception. Elsewhere on the album chart, English pop singer Adele’s “21” rebounded one place to No 2 in its 19th week, with 91,500 copies. —Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Couture ends

with

revolution

,

as masses enter show P

aris’ three-day-long fall-winter 2011-12 haute couture extravaganza wrapped up Wednesday with a mini revolution that challenged the established order of this elitist world by allowing the uninitiated masses into a show. Normally only a reduced cadre of fashion editors, stylists and journalists, as well as the ever-dwindling numbers of fabulously wealthy women who regularly sink fivefigure sums into a made-to-measure dress attend couture shows. But French couturier

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

L

ike a fox in the proverbial henhouse, Gaultier served up plumage from every bird he could get his hands on. Rooster, ostrich, swan, turkey and pheasant feathers peeked out from the hemlines of trench coats and fluttered out from beneath the necklines of bustiers and other Gaultier staples. And even when they weren’t visible from the outside, the feathers were there on the inside, stuffing the puffer jackets and A-line skirts made from down-filled duvets. A cropped leather jacket was entirely embroidered with black rooster’s feathers that gleamed darkly, like an oil slick. A model appeared to be transforming, “Black Swan”-style, into a macaw, her bustier an explosion of feathers in saturated tropical shades. In a nod to the blockbuster movie, Gaultier paired tutus with his signature pinstriped suits and sent out high heels that looked like satin pointe shoes with a metal platform to hike up the heel. Gaultier has a prodigious imagination, and his creativity can sometimes get the upper hand and overshadow the clothes themselves, but Wednesday’s collection hit the sweet spot between fancy and rigor. In a nod to his new men’s perfume Gaultier put men onto the catwalk, which in couture shows is normally ladies-only territory. Lanky male models tuxedos with pointy patent leather heels shared the catwalk with buff boys in duvet skirts. “I never really saw myself in a dress before,” said RobEvans, a boxer-turned-model with a square jaw and epic shoulders. “Coming from boxing, I’m more about testosterone and locker rooms and I’m generally not all that in touch with my feminine side.”

Frank Sorbier took the bold move of selling tickets to his show on the internet to anyone with an interest in fashion and 31 euros ($44) to spare.

“You can buy tickets to concerts, to plays, to standup comedy acts, and really a fashion show is a kind of spectacle, too, with drama, emotion and beauty,” said Sorbier. “So I figured, why not sell tickets to my show, too?”

Still, Sorbier’s revolutionary spirit didn’t spill over to the day’s other shows, which remained, in true couture style, invitation-only events attended by an extraordinarily well-heeled insider audience. Valentino was held in a stately Paris mansion, and the feather-light chemisier dresses exuded a retro tres Parisien elegance that was very much in keeping with the surroundings.

Elie Saab-the Lebanese designer whose high-wattage va-va-voom gowns have conquered a thousand red carpets the world over-also delivered a light, airy collection of sequin and tulle confections.

Feathers flew at Jean Paul Gaultier, where plumage plucked from just about avian species from the common chicken to the stately swan dressed up his gorgeously cut staples-pinstriped suits, trench coats

Models present creation by JEAN PAUL GAULTIER.

and bustiers. The show was raucous and ended with a tuxedoed Gaultier racing off the catwalk, out of the building and down the street to a launch party for his new perfume “Kokorico” — which translates, appropriately enough, to cock-a-doodle-doo in French.

Other highlights of the week included debuts on the couture calendar by Giambattista Valli, whose retro Italian glamour has won him flocks of jet-setting fans, and inventive up-and-coming Dutch woman Iris Van Herpen, who sent out a ball gown made entirely out of twisted metal wire. Attention to detail was pushed to the outer limits of sanity at Givenchy, with ten astounding looks in tulle, pearls and tiny iridescent beads that each took upward of 2,000 hours of painstaking labor.

At Chanel, the set alone sufficed to take people’s breath away.

The deep-pocketed house built a life-sized replica of Paris’ jewelry Mecca, Place Vendome, swapping Napoleon for founder Coco Chanel atop the square’s iconic towering column Spring-summer 2012 couture shows will take place in January. —AP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

VALENTINO

L

oaded with beads, rhinestones and sequins, couture is generally a weighty business. But Valentino kept it whisper-light with a collection of sheer chemisier gowns that were about as substantial as one of Gaultier’s feathers. A light touch has become the signature of the label’s new design duo, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, who over the past two-and-a-half years have steered the label once known for its va-vavoom red carpet looks to an altogether airier place. Ankle-length chemisier dresses were dreamy concoctions of flesh-colored tulle, chiffon, lace, feathers and lustrous metallic beads. Retro capes blossomed with flower petal appliques, and skirt suits were riddled with elaborate cutouts. “That was sheer beauty,” gushed actress Anne Hathaway after the show, which was held in the rambling, gilded salons of a Paris mansion. “Those were the kinds of dresses you dreamed about when you were a kid.”

Models present creations by Italian designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Picciolo for Valentino.

—AP photos

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

ELIE SAAB

S

aab has the formula down pat: Take miles of flowing silks and tulle, whip the fabrics into flattering, nip-waisted silhouettes and cover them with a ton of shimmering sequins and beads and you’ve got yourself a red carpet winner. The Lebanese designer didn’t stray Wednesday from the winning recipe that has helped him conquer red carpets worldwide. But then again, with gowns that look that good, why would he? Models walked the catwalk in artfully draped bustier gowns with long flowing skirts cinched at their waists with skinny belts. Fans installed near the photographers’ pit billowed the dresses’ flowing chiffon just so for the photos, and the battery of flashes electrified the intricate bead work. The dresses were feather-light and ultra-sheer, but slap on a lining and you’d be ready to go to your next movie premier, gala dinner or black tie soiree.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

FRANK SORBIER

S

old on the Internet (gasp!), and priced starting at a very reasonable ($44) a piece, tickets to the Sorbier show allowed those who’d never before set foot in a fashion show to access this elite world, at least for the 15-minute long display. People in jeans and non-designer T-shirts queued up in front of Paris’ Cirque d’Hiver theater, where models paraded in ravishing hand-crafted garments. The collection channeled Brothers Grimm’s fairy tale world, with models looking like impish Gretels after too long in the woods. A yellow and green pantsuit and matching cap covered the model like lichen, while a coat made from rough, uneven chocolate and evergreen patches looked as if it had been cobbled together out of strips of bark. “It’s the anti-couture couture show,” Sorbier said in a backstage interview. “There are no sequins, no crystals, nothing that sparkles. Just pieces that required lots and lots of work.” Sorbier says he personally did the lion’s share of the labor, handscrunching the silk georgette into the rumpled texture that has become the veteran designer’s trademark. All the material was then hand-dyed in the atelier sink. “There were some models who came by for castings who looked around like they thought we’d been slaughtering something in that sink,” Sorbier added with a laugh. Maybe it was the elfin clothes-shorn of couture’s high-wattage sheen but showcasing its extraordinary workmanship-or perhaps it was the fashion outsiders in the audience, or both, but there was something magical in the air at Sorbier.—AP

Models present creations by Lebanese designer Elie Saab.

—AP photos

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Lifestyle

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Japanese say ‘I do not’ with divorce ceremonies

T

he smartly-dressed Japanese husband and wife stand side-by-side, surrounded by close friends, in front of a clergyman-like figure. He asks them to smash their wedding rings with a hammer. Hiroki Terai is a self-styled “divorce planner” who conducts solemn ceremonies during which he invites couples to show their disaffection for one another before they — in most cases-walk away smiling. “I don’t think the concept of divorce is a negative thing,” said Terai. “Instead of spending a lifetime bickering, it is much better to wrap up the relationship and restart separately.”

The nation’s divorce rate has steadily climbed since the 1960s, from an average of 70,000 couples terminating their marriage each year to nearly four times that amount with some 253,000 couples separating in 2009. Terai said that with less pressure over marital status and family relations in Japanese society, more people are looking for the chance to reset their lives. “Even since childhood, I was always curious why people don’t hold divorce ceremonies, even though they have wedding ceremonies,” said Terai, who remains a bachelor at 31.

“Amicable divorce is something I admire. If I divorce, I want to have a divorce ceremony.”Terai last week held a divorce ceremony for his 79th couple — 38-year-old Kenji and his wife Keiko (not their real names) — to help them celebrate the beginning of a happier life apart.”We’ve been married for seven years, and it’s not easy to end it just by signing a

paper,” said Kenji before the divorce ceremony in Tokyo. “This is a chance to clarify our feelings and start again.”In contrast, Keiko was less enthusiastic about the event. “I am only doing this as a last favour for my soon-to-be ex-husband,” said the 36-year-old, fully dressed in black to represent the death of their marriage.

‘Celebrate their happy separation’ Terai arranged for the unhappy couple to ride separate rickshaws to the ceremony site, a humble but colorfully decorated garage. Several of their friends were invited as guests and followed them. The divorce planner performed the master of ceremonies role and led the service, referring to the couple as “ex-groom” and “ex-bride”. “Behind your decision to divorce, there are many complex things that only you understand,” he said to them. “We all pray that this day will mark a good restart for both of you.” He then handed the pair a hammer and encouraged them to smash a wedding ringtheir last collaboration as a married couple, which drew applause from the guests. But the finality of the occasion was too much for the exbride, whose bitterness appeared to dissolve as she burst into tears.

“It just struck home that this was the end. It made me feel a bit sentimental,” she said with a tearful smile. “I’m glad that we went through with it.”Terai, who is now expanding the service to South Korea where the divorce rate is the highest in Asia, said Keiko’s reaction was fairly

Chilean musician Mario Mutis, member of the legendary Chilean band Los Jaivas, rehearses in the ruins of Machu Picchu citadel, 130 km northwest of Cusco, Peru . — AFP

In a picture taken on June 26, 2011 a couple smash their wedding rings with a hammer during their divorce ceremony in Tokyo.—AFP

A another couple smash their wedding rings with a hammer during their divorce ceremony.

common for couples at his ceremonies.”But usually after smashing a ring, they seem to feel relieved, and you see their faces brighten up.

Guests then truly celebrate their happy separation.”

Terai also said more husbands than wives are inclined to turn the end of marriage into a social event by throwing a divorce ceremony.”When a relationship ends, women seem to be able to move on much more easily, but men find it harder to let go,” he said. “I think that they need

an opportunity to draw a line in the sand.” Nine couples that Terai helped ended up cancelling their plans to divorce, he said. Keiko’s unexpected tears also moved the ex-groom. “I never thought she would cry,” he said, looking at his soon-to-be ex-wife with an affectionate smile.”Maybe we can rethink this divorce one more time,” he said. “I wouldn’t go that far,” replied Keiko.—AFP

Tourists walk among the ruins of the Machu Picchu citadel, 130 km northwest of Cusco. — AFP

Peru celebrates 100 years of Machu Picchu ‘discovery’

P

eruvians celebrate this month the centennial of the “discovery” of Machu Picchu, a world tourist attraction and archeological marvel that has yet to reveal all its secrets. This 15thcentury Inca city of carved stone structures, built high on an Andean mountain range in southeastern Peru, was introduced to the world by American explorer Hiram Bingham. The handsome Yale University professor, who inspired Hollywood’s “Indiana Jones” character, arrived on site on July 24, 1911 at the head of a well-equipped scientific expedition. He shared his findings about this “lost city of the Incas” in the National Geographic journal.

But local farmers had known about its existence for years and even centuries before, as some raised their crops on the citadel’s very flanks. The site’s “100 years” will be officially celebrated starting Thursday, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of the site being voted one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in a global Internet poll. Andean dances, concerts, parades, mystic rituals and academic conferences are planned for the celebration.

Machu Picchu will also make its appearance on 10-sol bills ($3.5).

“For Peru, Machu Picchu is like the pyramids of Egypt,” said archeologist Luis Lumbreras, former head of the National Institute of Culture.

Historians and archeologists, however, have yet to agree on Machu Picchu’s function. Some believe the site was a sacred location while others say it was a resort town for an Inca emperor, or even a fortress. This mystery adds to the beauty of the site surrounded by tropical forests, and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. In June, the United Nations warned against overcrowding for the celebrations.

It placed the fortress under heavy surveillance and recommended that the number of visitors be limited to 1,800 per dayeven though more than 1,900 people visit on average each day, according to archeological director Fernando Astete. Machu Picchu, which means “old peak” in Quechua, the pan-Andean native language, is located 2,400 meters (7,900 feet) above sea level. Visitors must take a train from the city of Cusco to reach the isolated compound, or hike there on foot for several days, often on stone paths built by the Incas. The complex stretches across 32,500 hectares (80,300 acres), but the built-up section is concentrated on a zone 530 meters (1,740 feet) long by 200 meters (660 feet) wide, complete with agricultural terraces and 172 dwellings.

Up to 1,000 people are believed to have lived at the site, according to experts. The walls of the stone buildings “were cov-

ered in gold but disappeared little by little over two or three centuries,” said Lumbreras, a renowned Peruvian archeologist.

“Today, only the walls are left.”In 2008, French and Peruvian scientists found that German adventurer Augusto Bernes had “discovered” the lost city, which had never been found by the Spanish conquistadors, 44 years before Bingham. They also concluded that the site had been pillaged. Historical records show that at least two Germans, a Briton and a Frenchman, as well as a number of Peruvians, knew about the citadel before Bingham’s arrival.

During his three expeditions, Bingham carried away 44,000 pieces for Yale University, 366 of which were returned to Peru in March. Though most scholars agree that Bingham put Machu Picchu on the world map, Peruvian specialists accuse him of looting their country of its riches. Today, a main challenge is preserving this architectural jewel for future generations from the crush of tourists who want to visit Machu Picchu. In a bid to highlight the importance of conservation efforts, only 700 people will be allowed on the grounds on the opening day of festivities. — AFP

Stars

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Aries (March 21-April 19) You do not like making speeches, but when elected as a scheduled speaker, you can plan each word perfectly. You are a very forceful speaker and communicate with great enthusiasm. Words just gush out and are always followed by an emotional impact that brings them home to your listeners. You have no trouble putting your feelings into words; in fact, you may have to exercise some control over your tongue, for you are quick. You have a great mental drive and lavish great energy on mental pursuits of all kinds. Ideas, words, books, etc., are pursued with great gusto. This is a time when support and recognition should be in the forecast from public, family and friends. Slow the tempo this evening and enjoy a quiet and relaxing evening—perhaps a book.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Everything points to your taking the project over. You feel that you have support from those around you and your ideas will add to the smoothness of the execution of the project. There is a surge of independence, freedom and an interest in trying new ideas. If you are in sales, or teaching, others will not be able to resist paying attention to you.

You are a smooth talker with a quick wit and ready tongue. This is a productive time. You are not afraid to try new things. This will broaden your thinking and help you see new styles, ideas and paths to successful outcomes. A little time management may be needed for most people, but you seem to naturally pull things together. A sense of humor this evening helps you to relax.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Pay attention to your timing today so that you are able to make complete sentences and complete whatever tasks that are placed before you. Communication, particularly with those you feel may be a bit pushy, could prove troublesome. Through written communications, it will be good to spell-check and proofread. You will be successful in whatever method of communication you choose. Create an interest in viewing the long run of a situation, instead of the quick fix. Know that you encourage others through your own actions. There could be change on the home front this evening. You appreciate tradition and regularity and you may be dead set against anything new. Of course, one could consider a good reupholstering job on some furniture.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Your most essential quality has to do with the very real love and compassion you radiate. Your sense of value and sheer appreciation for life are communicated to all who come to know you. You take control of a difficult situation today in some efforts to calm, soothe and make others feel secure. You could feel great support from those around you at this time. You feel healthy and natural. You love to express yourself and have great stamina—a born entertainer. The urge for a more glitzy social life may find you out and about this evening. This is a good time for surrounding yourself with friends and young people and for having a good time. General good feelings and a sense of support and harmony make this a happy time.

Leo (July 23-August 22) You must learn to listen to some of your own more sensitive areas and feelings; they are clues into who you are and where your compassion can be found. Clear communication is ever important in order to get your needs met. It is time to start thinking about opportunities that will show off your own special talents. You may enjoy your job and be able to express your business expertise. This evening it will be time to show how well you can create. This may be with music, crafts or techniques, styles or expressions. You have held yourself back for much too long. You cannot abolish your creativity. Consider taking some time to volunteer in some mentoring and tutoring capacity, perhaps a community awareness project.

Virgo (August 23-September 22) You have strong, stable emotions and tend to draw around you the perfect environment for yourself. The thing you need is always at hand. In addition, you get much support and good fortune from friends and relatives. You are sometimes pulled between a desire to progress and be all that you can be, versus a tendency to dwell in the past—resting on your laurels. Your inner, more domestic side struggles against authority. You could feel caught in the middle. This may be the right time to think about changing or enhancing your career; perhaps something home-based that is creative or teaches others some creative talent. The path or career that you have now may go against your own best interest—it is time to reassess. Enjoy the evening with your lover.

COUNTRY CODES Libra (September 23-October 22) You may feel left out or passed over just now. Your own requirements may appear to limit and separate you from where the rest of the gang is headed. This is a short-term situation but needs your attention. Close relationships will take on more emotional depth, power and importance at this time. An important event is near. This is a time during which you can have the experience of taking a greater role in the creation of life itself. You become one with the creative force to a marked extent—powerfully positive thinking. This could just be the time to break the mold and try what is unconventional, but with real passion. A much more independent and adventurous you will emerge. Relax this evening, perhaps a good video movie.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21) This is a great time to be with others and to work together.

You enjoy working in a group that knows how to be part of a team and work together. You are very motivated, with a strong drive and urge to do and accomplish. In your own personal workspace you have an eye toward progress and the future; you feel compelled to try for what is just out of your reach. As a born coach or teacher, you are at home in the physicalaction areas of life. You are quite able to manage a very active and strong emotional life. At home this afternoon a loved one gives you reason to be critical—you are wise to hold back your comments. Find the positive possibilities in this particular person. They just may need to talk.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Your relentless pursuit of anything hidden makes you a good investigator. You are positive and energized, handling subject matters that others would never come near. You are able to size up a problem and come up with a solution. Using your mind to negotiate obstacles and handle dilemmas, you will be called upon to solve several business problems today. You could be a computer wizard or a technical adviser—whatever the case, others are glad you make yourself available. You have a natural ability to guide and lead others through the hassles of life. You could be very much in demand as a counselor—you enjoy solving problems. Be prepared—this could amount to a passion that others may not be ready to deal with—pace yourself.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19) Your mind could be quite clear and natural. Ideas are streaming easily to you. You can talk, talk, talk. You could be on a planning committee or in advertising that calls for your kind of creativity.

Your outward seriousness and no-nonsense approach to things are obvious to all. This deliberate sense of responsibility comes across and is central to your personality and the way you relate to other people. Everything is run through your checkpoint to see if it holds up and can pass the test. Although you are very creative, you can be a stickler with details. You may be able to enjoy and value the relationships you have with your friends and loved ones tonight. General good feeling and a sense of support and harmony make this a happy time.

Aquarius (January 20- February 18) You have plenty of good practical job-related thoughts and ideas today. You have the ability to communicate with superiors or describe what you see. You work with real imagination and understanding in areas of the mind that are most private—depth psychology.

Understanding your co-workers has an advantage this week, as someone may have been relieved from their duties and another may have moved up in status. Politics and jealousy from others may gain your sympathy. Working with others at this time has brought you to realize that your ability to focus is an important factor in your business expertise. You may be sought after as just the person for a particular project. Laughter is contagious this evening— enjoy a good laugh with friends.

Pisces (February 19-March 20) You may be under a lot of pressure, at least in the way you appear to others. All is not in harmony between your emotions and the way you express yourself just now. Take a step back and reassess what motivates you. You are insightful when it comes to practical matters—job, career and such. You are independent and you may have an unconventional approach to work, especially regarding how you organize or manage your work.

Perhaps the only problem today is that you may have a reputation for being different. You draw emotional nourishment and a sense of security from ideals, friends and social involvement. There is a need for change, a desire to break with outmoded patterns from the past and a longing for the new, the different, the unique.

Afghanistan 0093 Albania 00355 Algeria 00213 Andorra 00376 Angola 00244 Anguilla 001264 Antiga 001268 Argentina 0054 Armenia 00374 Australia 0061 Austria 0043 Bahamas 001242 Bahrain 00973 Bangladesh 00880 Barbados 001246 Belarus 00375 Belgium 0032 Belize 00501 Benin 00229 Bermuda 001441 Bhutan 00975 Bolivia 00591 Bosnia 00387 Botswana 00267 Brazil 0055 Brunei 00673 Bulgaria 00359 Burkina 00226 Burundi 00257 Cambodia 00855 Cameroon 00237 Canada 001 Cape Verde 00238 Cayman Islands 001345 Central African Republic 00236 Chad 00235 Chile 0056 China 0086 Colombia 0057 Comoros 00269 Congo 00242 Cook Islands 00682 Costa Rica 00506 Croatia 00385 Cuba 0053 Cyprus 00357 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Czech Republic 00420 Denmark 0045 Diego Garcia 00246 Djibouti 00253 Dominica 001767 Dominican Republic 001809 Ecuador 00593 Egypt 0020 El Salvador 00503 England (UK) 0044 Equatorial Guinea 00240 Eritrea 00291 Estonia 00372 Ethiopia 00251 Falkland Islands 00500 Faroe Islands 00298 Fiji 00679 Finland 00358 France 0033 French Guiana 00594 French Polynesia 00689 Gabon 00241 Gambia 00220 Georgia 00995 Germany 0049 Ghana 00233 Gibraltar 00350 Greece 0030 Greenland 00299 Grenada 001473 Guadeloupe 00590 Guam 001671 Guatemala 00502 Guinea 00224 Guyana 00592 Haiti 00509 Holland (Netherlands)0031 Honduras 00504 Hong Kong 00852 Hungary 0036 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Iceland 00354 India 0091 Indian Ocean 00873 Indonesia 0062 Iran 0098 Iraq 00964 Ireland 00353 Italy 0039 Ivory Coast 00225 Jamaica 001876 Japan 0081 Jordan 00962 Kazakhstan 007 Kenya 00254 Kiribati 00686

Kuwait 00965 Kyrgyzstan 00996 Laos 00856 Latvia 00371 Lebanon 00961 Liberia 00231 Libya 00218 Lithuania 00370 Luxembourg 00352 Macau 00853 Macedonia 00389 Madagascar 00261 Majorca 0034 Malawi 00265 Malaysia 0060 Maldives 00960 Mali 00223 Malta 00356 Marshall Islands 00692 Martinique 00596 Mauritania 00222 Mauritius 00230 Mayotte 00269 Mexico 0052 Micronesia 00691 Moldova 00373 Monaco 00377 Mongolia 00976 Montserrat 001664 Morocco 00212 Mozambique 00258 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Namibia 00264 Nepal 00977 Netherlands (Holland)0031 Netherlands Antilles 00599 New Caledonia 00687 New Zealand 0064 Nicaragua 00505 Nigar 00227 Nigeria 00234 Niue 00683 Norfolk Island 00672 Northern Ireland (UK)0044 North Korea 00850 Norway 0047 Oman 00968 Pakistan 0092 Palau 00680 Panama 00507 Papua New Guinea 00675 Paraguay 00595 Peru 0051 Philippines 0063 Poland 0048 Portugal 00351 Puerto Rico 001787 Qatar 00974 Romania 0040 Russian Federation 007 Rwanda 00250 Saint Helena 00290 Saint Kitts 001869 Saint Lucia 001758 Saint Pierre 00508 Saint Vincent 001784 Samoa US 00684 Samoa West 00685 San Marino 00378 Sao Tone 00239 Saudi Arabia 00966 Scotland (UK) 0044 Senegal 00221 Seychelles 00284 Sierra Leone 00232 Singapore 0065 Slovakia 00421 Slovenia 00386 Solomon Islands 00677 Somalia 00252 South Africa 0027 South Korea 0082 Spain 0034 Sri Lanka 0094 Sudan 00249 Suriname 00597 Swaziland 00268 Sweden 0046 Switzerland 0041 Syria 00963 Taiwan 00886 Tanzania 00255 Thailand 0066 Toga 00228 Tonga 00676 Tokelau 00690 Trinidad 001868 Tunisia 00216 Turkey 0090 Tuvalu 00688 Uganda 00256 Ukraine 00380 United Arab Emirates00976

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

W h a t ’s O n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Stage set for today’s Jeevan TV program

A

cluster of South India’s talented popular entertainment icons are in Kuwait to participate today’s Jeevan TV mega show at American International School, Maidan Hawally.

Jeevan TV MD Baby Mathew Somatheeram is arriving today along with other Jeevan officials. Famous playback singers MG Sreekumar and Renjini Jose will lead today’s two shows which will have comedy numbers led by Ayyappa Baiju. The two shows will also stage numerous local talents. Jeevan TV, Kuwait one of the most popular Indian channels in Kuwait that has raised itself to the status of a family club and socio cultural organization will also give out the first annual awards in various fields. The 8 awards, co organized by Al-Mulla Exchange will be presented during the mega cultural event. The awardees are Dr Nasar Al Sani (Social Service to Expats by a Citizen), M Mathews (Overall Contribution), Thomas Chandy (Expat MLA), KG Abraham (Industrialist), TA Ramesh (Support to Cultural Activities), Dr Biji Basheer (Helper to the Downtrodden), Babuji Batheri (Cultural Activities) and Indian Doctors Forum (Health Care).

Mar Thoma Malayalam classes

C

onducting Malayalam Classes during every Summer Vacation in a foreign soil is more than just an effort to teach our Mother Tongue to a new generation. It is primarily aimed at imparting our rich Cultural Heritage through a media, said, Krishna K Pillai, President, Arpan Cultural Society, at the closing ceremony of Malayalam Classes which commenced on 10th June, 2011.

According to Pillai, Kerala, replete with its traditional background, and a diverse yet ancient Culture that dates back to

even prior to 1st Century has attracted many foreign Travellers and businessmen including the Middle Eastern Arabs who set their sail towards Kerala, God’s Own Country. Due to large scale migration to other countries our children are distended away from the language and culture and it is our duty to equip to inherit the language and culture to the new generation.

The enthusiasm & spirit with which the Youth Wing of St.Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Salmiya organize the Classes every Summer is commendable.

Rev. Thomas Koshy Panachamoottil, Vicar, St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, Salmiya and President of the Yuvajana Sakhyam presided over the meeting.

Various Malayalam programs staged during the occasion were well received by the audience. Mr. Georgy Mathew, vice-resident welcomed the gathering and John Alexander, Secretary, proposed vote of thanks. Acknowledging the value, parents expressed their desire of having the same in the coming years too.

H

Family conference

ome land family conference of KTMCC (Kuwait Town Malalyali Christian Congregation) will be conducted on July 23 at Kumbanadu, Kerala including its ex-members and the present members who are on vacation at that time. Meantime it decided to honor those who completed age of 70 and above. For the registration of conference to visit www.ktmcc.com or to contact HFC (Home land family conference) Kerala Chapter Convener T. John Mathew Mob: - (+91) 9446368878 or Secretary Roy. K.Yohannan 66570486.

Kuwait KMCC conducts health awareness seminar

U

nder the auspices of Kuwait KMC, a health awareness seminar was conducted at United Indian School, Abbasiya. Doctors who conducted lectures emphasized that neglecting health under the pretext of busy life is the prime reason for diseases in expatriates. It is important to streamline our life with exercise, and proper food intake to safeguard the health. The doctors underlined. Keeping balance between work and relaxation is another pivotal factor.

Dr. Ameer Ahamed who took lecture on “Diabetics”, underlined that effected patients should take extreme caution as the disease will eventually impact the

other important organs as well in the long run. However, a diabetic patient can lead normal life with proper diet and regular exercise. Regular checkup is also vital. Proper knowledge about what contains in particular food is very much necessary. He explained in detail the mechanism of insulin production and metabolism.

Dr. Abdul Fathah while delivering the lecture on “Cardio-vascular” diseases shed light on various misconception tions about heart diseases. It is important to have active and stress-managed life. It is a risk to use one’s own interpretation of ‘pain’, the doctors should be consult-

ed immediately if any pain develops in the chest area. If diagnosed, there are many options available to protect the heart and save life. He pointed out.

Audience had a chance to clarify their doubts and doctors have answered their questions. The seminar was inaugurated

by Chairman Sayed Nased Mashhoor Thangal, presided over by president Sharafuddeen Kanneth.

General Secretary Basheer Batha welcomed the audience and Treasurer Nazeer Khan rendered vote of thanks. Secretary Sayed Alavi Chembra recited Holy Quran.

BP Nasar inaugurates Venalthanima 2011 by lighting the lamp at United Indian School, Abbasiiya yesterday.

Vijayakrishnan, Ad Thomas Panikkar, Sam Pynummood, a camper and Raghunathan Nair look on.

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

W h a t ’s O n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

The outstanding student Fawwaz Abdulla Ghuloom Ali with NBK officials.

A student is seen during the honoring ceremony that was held at NBK HO.

NBK honours outstanding high school graduates

N

NBK Public Relations Manager Abdulmohsen Alrushaid

ational Bank of Kuwait strongly supports excellence in education. Recognizing and rewarding the hard work of students and encouraging Kuwait’s youth to attain their highest potential is a central part of NBK’s corporate social responsibility agenda.

To that end, NBK will honor Kuwait’s top 10 high school graduates for the academic year 2010-2011 and their parents for their outstanding achievement. Focusing on Arts, Religion and Science majors, NBK will host another honoring ceremony at its headquarters under the auspices of the Minister of Education and Higher Education Ahmed Abdelmohsin Al Mulaifi in the coming weeks.

“NBK believes in recognizing and rewarding merit and achievement. We regularly sponsor and support educational institutions and activities in Kuwait and feel that this strong commitment to our community and Kuwait’s youth is vital to the future development of the country, said NBK Public Relations Manager Abdulmohsen

Alrushaid. “NBK leads by example in the realm of Corporate Social Responsibility. We regularly support students with training programs, educational opportunities and awareness campaigns,” Alrushaid explained.

Speaking at an earlier honoring ceremony held at NBK headquarters, student Fawwaz Abdulla Ghuloom Ali, who achieved 99.1.% results, thanked the bank for motivating high school students and supporting the achievement of their dreams and ambitions. Fawaz met NBK CEO Shaikha Al-Bahar as well as other NBK executive management.

Outstanding student Abrar Numan AlGhareeb, who earned 98.48%, also thanked NBK for honoring her and added that she was happy to see NBK valuing the role of education and supporting students’ achievements.

An outstanding student Abrar Numan Al-Ghareeb.

Napket launches photo exhibition

N

apket restaurant, a part of Al-Sirhan International, launched a photo exhibition, this week, as an initiative to support and encourage the work of young Kuwaiti photographers. The exhibition, titled “Camera is Ready...Prepare the Flash”, is a part of the social responsibility Al-Sirhan International committed itself to.

Napket is seeking to support the Kuwaiti youth by providing a strong stage to express themselves through creativity and art. The restaurant’s chic and busy location represents a great opportunity for the young photographers to display and shed the light to their artworks.

Eight rising talented photographers, Maha Al-Mudhaf, Haya Al-Omran, Khaled Al-Ibrahim, Dalal Al-Mudhaf, Farah Al-Reshaid, Farah Al-Haidar, Shahad Al-Ajeel, and Maryam Al-Sinani participated in this exhibition that

continues for two weeks with three photographs each, showcasing their extraordinary ability to express their ideas in black and white.

Sirhan Al-Sirhan, the chairman of Al-Sirhan International, expressed the importance of giving the Kuwaiti youth the opportunity to express their talents and expose their creativity to everyone.

Al-Sirhan thanked the photographers for their participation and expressed his admiration of their artworks and how proud he is of the Kuwaiti talented photographers. Visitors are still coming to Napket to enjoy the food while admiring this extraordinary exhibition at the Avenues Mall, Phase 2, mezzanine.

TV Listings FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

00:45 01:40 02:35 03:00 03:30 03:55 04:25 05:20 06:10 07:00 07:25 07:50 08:40 09:10 10:05 11:00 11:55 12:20 12:50 13:15 13:45 14:40 15:30 16:00 16:30 16:55 17:25 18:20 18:45 19:15 20:10 21:05 22:00

Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 Untamed & Uncut Escape to Chimp Eden Escape to Chimp Eden Chris Humfrey’s Wildlife Chris Humfrey’s Wildlife I Was Bitten Animal Cops Houston America’s Cutest...

Lemur Street The Really Wild Show Crocodile Hunter Breed All About It Must Love Cats Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 Michaela’s Animal Road Trip Lemur Street Wildlife SOS Clinically Wild: Alaska Clinically Wild: Alaska Animal Cops Houston Animal Precinct RSPCA: On the Frontline The Really Wild Show Farm Life Farm Life Dogs vs. Cats Breed All About It Planet Wild Crocodile Hunter Dogs/Cats/Pets 101 Whale Wars Whale Wars

00:00 00:35 01:20 02:10 03:00 03:30 04:00 04:35 04:55 05:15 05:40 05:55 06:15 06:35 07:00 07:20 07:40 08:10 08:20 08:40 09:00 09:30 09:40 10:10 10:40 11:25 12:15 12:45 13:15 14:10 14:40 15:10 15:40 16:30 17:15 17:45 18:15 19:10 20:00 20:45 21:15 22:05 23:00 23:30

Dinnerladies The Weakest Link Casualty Doctor Who Eastenders Doctors Keeping Up Appearances Fimbles Balamory Teletubbies Gigglebiz Fimbles Balamory Teletubbies Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Charlie And Lola Fimbles Balamory Tikkabilla Charlie And Lola Keeping Up Appearances Dinnerladies The Weakest Link Ray Mears Goes Walkabout Doctors Eastenders Casualty Dinnerladies Dinnerladies Dinnerladies Ray Mears Goes Walkabout The Weakest Link Doctors Eastenders Casualty Ray Mears Goes Walkabout The Weakest Link Doctors BBC Electric Proms 2008 Survivors The Cup Ideal

00:15 00:40 01:30 02:20 04:00 04:50 07:20 08:10 09:00 09:55 11:35 12:25 13:15 14:00 14:45 15:35 17:15 18:10 19:00

Rick Stein’s French Odyssey Come Dine With Me New Scandinavian Cooking Rick Stein’s French Odyssey Fantasy Homes By The Sea Daily Cooks Challenge Sweet Baby James New Scandinavian Cooking Antiques Roadshow Rick Stein’s French Odyssey New Scandinavian Cooking Antiques Roadshow Cash In The Attic Bargain Hunt Come Dine With Me Rick Stein’s French Odyssey Indian Food Made Easy New Scandinavian Cooking Antiques Roadshow

A Nightmare on Elm Stree on OSN Premiers 19:50 20:35 21:20 22:10 23:00

00:40 01:35 02:30 03:25 04:20 05:15 05:40 06:05 07:00 07:50 08:45 09:10 10:05 10:30 10:55 11:25 12:20 12:45 13:15 14:10 15:05 16:00 16:55 17:50 18:45 19:10 19:40 20:05 20:35 21:00 21:55 22:50 23:45

Cash In The Attic Bargain Hunt Come Dine With Me Fantasy Homes By The Sea Masterchef: The Professionals

Dirty Jobs LA Ink Ultimate Survival Battle Machine Bros Mythbusters How It’s Made How Stuff Works Dirty Jobs Battle Machine Bros Street Customs 2008 How It’s Made Mythbusters Cake Boss Border Security Auction Hunters Surviving The Cut Sons Of Guns Sons Of Guns Ultimate Survival LA Ink Dirty Jobs Battle Machine Bros Mythbusters Dual Survival Cake Boss Border Security Auction Hunters How Stuff Works How It’s Made Extreme Engineering Huge Moves Mighty Ships Dual Survival

00:05 00:55 01:45 02:35 03:25 04:15 04:45 05:40 06:10 07:00 07:55 08:50 09:15 09:40 15:45 16:10 17:00 17:50 18:15 18:40 19:05 19:30 20:20 21:10 21:35 22:00 22:50 23:40

Science Of The Movies Mega Builders Prototype This Bang Goes The Theory Da Vinci’s Machines How Stuff’s Made Mega Builders One Step Beyond Eco-Tech Da Vinci’s Machines How The Universe Works The Gadget Show The Gadget Show Science Of The Movies Weird Connections Brainiac Mission Critical: Hubble Sci-Fi Science The Gadget Show The Tech Show The Tech Show Bad Universe Da Vinci’s Machines The Gadget Show The Gadget Show The Tech Show Bad Universe The Gadget Show

00:00 00:25 01:15 02:00 02:25 02:50

Kim Possible Fairly Odd Parents Stitch Replacements Replacements Emperors New School

03:15 03:35 04:00 04:25 04:50 05:15 05:35 06:00 06:20 06:45 07:05 07:55 08:20 08:35 09:00 09:10 09:25 09:40 09:50 10:10 10:35 10:50 11:15 11:35 12:00 12:25 12:45 13:30 15:20 15:45 16:10 16:35 17:00 17:25 17:50 18:15 18:45 19:10 19:35 21:15 21:35 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:15

Emperors New School Stitch Stitch Replacements Replacements Fairly Odd Parents Fairly Odd Parents Emperors New School Phineas & Ferb Phineas & Ferb Suite Life On Deck Good Luck Charlie Fish Hooks Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Jake & The Neverland Pirates Jungle Junction Handy Manny Jake & The Neverland Pirates Sonny With A Chance Fish Hooks Phineas And Ferb Shake It Up Good Luck Charlie Good Luck Charlie Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Johnny Kapahala: Back On Board The Suite Life Of Zack & Cody Fish Hooks Shake It Up Wizards Of Waverly Place Wizards Of Waverly Place Hannah Montana Fish Hooks Wizards Of Waverly Place Good Luck Charlie Hannah Montana Gotta Kick It Up Phineas & Ferb Good Luck Charlie Shake It Up Hannah Montana Sonny With A Chance Wizards Of Waverly Place

00:25 00:55 01:25 03:15 04:10 05:05 06:00 Feuds 07:50 08:20 09:15 09:45 10:15 12:05 13:05 13:35 14:05 14:35 15:30 16:25 16:55 17:25 17:55 18:55 19:55 20:25 20:55 21:25 21:55 22:25 23:25 23:55

Kendra Extreme Close-Up Too Young To Kill 25 Most Stylish Sexiest Extreme Hollywood 30 Most Outrageous Celebrity

00:05 00:30 00:55 01:20 01:45 02:10 02:35 03:00 03:25 03:50 04:15 04:40 05:05 05:30 05:50 06:35 07:00 07:50 08:15 08:40 09:05 09:30 09:55 10:20 10:45 11:10 11:35 12:25 12:50 13:15 13:40 14:30 14:55 15:20 15:45 16:35 17:00 17:25 17:50 18:15 18:40 19:05 19:30 19:55 20:20 20:45 21:10 22:00 22:25 22:50 23:40

Unwrapped Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Grill It! With Bobby Flay Grill It! With Bobby Flay Barefoot Contessa Barefoot Contessa Unwrapped Unwrapped Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Good Eats - Special Unwrapped Ten Dollar Dinners Paula’s Best Dishes Paula’s Party Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics Chopped Guy’s Big Bite Everyday Italian Good Deal With Dave Lieberman Ten Dollar Dinners Paula’s Best Dishes Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics Diners, Drive-Ins And Dives Lidia’s Italy Unwrapped Paula’s Party Everyday Italian Paula’s Best Dishes Good Deal With Dave Lieberman Ultimate Recipe Showdown Lidia’s Italy Unwrapped Boy Meets Grill Chopped Guy’s Big Bite Barefoot Contessa - Back To Basics Lidia’s Italy Everyday Italian Guy’s Big Bite Guys Big Bite Throwdown With Bobby Flay Everyday Italian Everyday Italian Lidia’s Italy Lidia’s Italy Chopped Good Eats - Special Good Eats - Special Food Network Challenge Good Eats - Special

01:00 01:30 02:00 05:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 08:30 09:00 09:30 10:00 Series 13:00 13:30

Behind The Scenes E! News Holly’s World The Dance Scene THS E! News Kendra Kendra Kourtney And Khloe Take Miami E!es E!es Behind The Scenes Khloe And Lamar Khloe And Lamar E! News THS Kourtney And Kim Take New York Kourtney And Kim Take New York Kourtney And Kim Take New York Kendra Kendra E! News The Soup Keeping Up With The Kardashians

Inside The PGA Tour Softball 360 MLB Prime/Time Boxing Golf In America Golf Fitness Trump’s Fabulous World Of Golf Feherty Golf Central International Playing Lessons NASCAR Camping World Truck Golf Central International Beach Sports

14:00 14:30 15:30 16:30 19:30 22:00

Utsa Football Super Bowl Highlights America’s Game European Tour MLB PGA Tour

00:30 01:20 02:10 03:00 03:50 04:45 05:15 06:10 07:00 07:50 08:40 09:05 09:30 10:20 11:10 12:00 12:50 13:15 13:40 14:30 14:55 15:20 16:10 17:00 17:50 18:40 19:05 19:55 20:20 21:10 21:35 22:00 22:50 23:40

The Haunted A Haunting True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Deadly Women Dr G: Medical Examiner Ghosthunters The Haunted Mystery Diagnosis Murder Shift Forensic Detectives Street Patrol Real Emergency Calls Mystery Diagnosis Undercover FBI Files True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Who On Earth Did I Marry?

Who On Earth Did I Marry?

Mystery Diagnosis Street Patrol Real Emergency Calls Undercover FBI Files Forensic Detectives Murder Shift Real Emergency Calls Mystery Diagnosis Street Patrol True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Who On Earth Did I Marry?

Who On Earth Did I Marry?

Serial Killers True Crime With Aphrodite Jones Dr G: Medical Examiner

00:00 01:00 01:55 02:50 03:45 04:40 05:35 06:30 07:25 08:20 09:15 10:10 11:05 12:00 13:00 14:00 15:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Wild Russia Orca Killing School The Living Edens Caught In The Act Hooked Snakezilla Crocodile King Wild Dog Diaries The Living Edens Japan’s Hidden Secret The Living Edens Caught In The Act Hooked Lion Army Deadly Summer The Living Edens Desert Seas Wild Amazon Caught In The Act Hooked Deadly Summer The Living Edens Desert Seas Wild Amazon Caught In The Act

00:30 02:15 04:15 06:00 08:15 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

Halloween 2-18 Jennifer’s Body-18 Zombieland-18 Enemy Of The State-PG15 The Betrayed-PG15 Beyond A Reasonable Doubt-PG15 Virtuality-PG15 The Betrayed-PG15 Star Runners-PG15 Virtuality-PG15 Killshot-18 Tears Of The Sun-18

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 09:00 11:00 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:00 21:00 23:00

The Answer Man-PG15 Slipstream-PG15 Citizen Jane-PG Fly Me To The Moon-PG Dean Spanley-PG Don’t Fade Away-PG15 Stone Of Destiny-PG15 Skellig-PG15 The Wronged Man-PG15 Crazy Heart-PG15 Saw VI-R Two Lovers-18

TV Listings FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

00:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 01:00 The Colbert Report 01:30 Funny Or Die Presents 02:00 The Ricky Gervais Show 02:30 Party Down 03:00 Malcolm In The Middle 03:30 Hope And Faith 04:00 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 04:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 05:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 06:00 According To Jim 06:30 Coach 07:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 08:00 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 08:30 Malcolm In The Middle 09:00 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 09:30 Community 10:00 Happy Endings 10:30 According To Jim 11:00 Coach 11:30 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 12:30 The New Adventures Of Old Christine 13:00 Hope And Faith 13:30 Tyler Perry’s House Of Payne 14:00 According To Jim 14:30 Community 15:00 Happy Endings 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 16:00 The Colbert Report 16:30 Coach 17:00 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon 18:00 10 Things I Hate About You 18:30 The Office 19:00 Outsourced 19:30 Modern Family 20:00 The Tonight Show With Jay Leno 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon Stewart 21:30 The Colbert Report 22:00 Family Guy 22:30 Eastbound And Down 23:00 Funny Or Die Presents 23:30 Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00 08:30 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 13:00 14:00 16:00 17:00 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

White Collar Burn Notice The Good Guys Bones Burn Notice Good Morning America Glee Emmerdale Look-A-Like The Good Guys The Martha Stewart Show The View White Collar Bones Live Good Morning America The Bachelor The Ellen DeGeneres Show One Tree Hill Drop Dead Diva Off The Map Big Love The Good Guys The Cape

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 07:30 08:00 09:00 10:00 11:00 12:00 12:30 14:00 15:00 16:00 16:30 18:00 19:00 20:00 21:00 22:00 23:00

Alias The Good Guys White Collar Burn Notice Bones Surface Alias Cougar Town Look-A-Like The Event The Good Guys White Collar Burn Notice Cougar Town Look-A-Like The Event Alias Cougar Town Look-A-Like Covert Affairs Drop Dead Diva Off The Map Big Love The Good Guys Surface

01:00 03:00 05:00 07:00 09:00 11:00

Psycho-18 Julia’s Eyes-18 The Wizard Of Gore-R Annihilation Earth-PG15 Star Trek: Generations-PG Collateral-18

13:00 14:30 16:30 18:30 21:00 23:00

Stonehenge Apocalypse-PG15 Star Trek: Generations-PG The Box-PG15 Public Enemies-18 Triangle-18 Child’s Play 2-PG15

15:00 Glorious 39-PG15 17:15 Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time-PG15 19:15 I Love You Beth Cooper-PG15 21:00 A Nightmare On Elm Street-18 23:00 The Maiden Heist-PG15

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 20:00 22:00

Houseguest-PG15 Moon Over Parador-PG15 Renaissance Man-PG15 My Father The Hero-PG15 Evolution-PG15 Shorts-PG Cop And A Half-PG One Fine Day-PG15 Houseguest-PG15 Born Yesterday-PG15 Ball And Chain-PG15 Magicians-18

00:00 Catch That Kid-PG15 02:00 The Archies In Jugman-FAM 04:00 Astro Boy-FAM 06:00 Leave It To Beaver-PG 08:00 Yogi And The Invasion Of The Space Bears-FAM 10:00 Cats And Dogs-PG15 12:00 Astro Boy-FAM 14:00 Barbie: A Fairy Secret-FAM 16:00 Rugrats Go Wild-FAM 18:00 Cats And Dogs-PG15 20:00 Treasure Island-PG 22:00 Barbie: A Fairy Secret-FAM

01:00 03:15 05:30 07:15 09:45 11:15 13:00 15:00 17:00 19:15 21:30 23:30

Paris-PG15 The Reader-18 Witness To Jonestown-PG15 Mr. Holland’s Opus-PG Operating Instructions-PG15 The Dust Factory-PG15 The Young Black Stallion-PG15 My Sister’s Keeper-PG15 Finding Forrester-PG Blues Brothers 2000-PG15 The Sisters-18 Midnight Cowboy-18

01:00 Moulin Rouge!-PG15 03:15 Paper Man-PG15 05:15 Amelia-PG15 07:15 When In Rome-PG15 09:00 Prince Of Persia: The Sands Of Time-PG15 11:00 Winning Time-PG15 13:00 Cats And Dogs-PG15

00:00 02:00 04:00 06:00 08:00 10:00 12:00 14:00 16:00 18:00 21:00 22:45

Long Weekend-PG15 You Again-PG15 I Spy-PG Oceans - Into The Deep-PG Whip It-PG15 9-PG You Again-PG15 Another Year-PG15 Whip It-PG15 Avatar-PG A Nightmare On Elm Street-18 Lower Learning-PG15

00:00 01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 07:00 08:00

WWE NXT UFC The Ultimate Fighter WWE Vintage Collection WWE NXT UFC The Ultimate Fighter State of Origin WWE NXT WWE Vintage Collection

09:00 09:30 11:30 12:30 14:30 15:30 16:30 20:30 21:30

NRL Full Time Live NRL Premiership WWE NXT Live NRL Premiership Super Rugby Highlights WWE NXT Live PGA European Tour Super Rugby Highlights Live Super League

04:00 Ladies European PGA Tour Highlights 05:00 Asian Tour Highlights 06:00 World Hockey 06:30 ICC Cricket World 07:00 RFL Championship 09:00 Total Rugby 09:30 Super Rugby Highlights 10:30 Live AFL Premiership 13:30 ICC Cricket World 14:00 Live Snooker 17:30 Trans World Sport 18:30 AFL Premiership 21:00 Futbol Mundial 21:30 Live Super League

00:00 01:00 03:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 09:00 09:30 11:30 12:00 12:30 14:30 16:30 20:30 21:00 22:00

Collateral on OSN Movie Action

AFL Highlights RFL Championship Masters Football Trans World Sport Golfing World Trans World Sport NRL Full Time Live NRL Premiership Futbol Mundial NRL Full Time Live NRL Premiership NRL Premiership Live PGA European Tour ICC Criket World Golfing World PGA European Tour

01:00 02:00 03:00 04:00 05:00 06:00 07:00 08:00 08:30 12:00 13:00 14:00 20:00 22:00 23:00

UFC The Ultimate Fighter WWE Vintage Collection WWE NXT UFC The Ultimate Fighter UFC Unleashed UFC Unleashed WWE NXT Mass Participation Live Snooker WWE NXT WWE Vintage Collection Le Mans WWE SmackDown WWE Bottom Line UFC The Ultimate Fighter

00:05 00:30 01:45 03:00 04:15 05:30 07:00 08:15 09:30 10:45 12:00 13:15 14:30 15:45 17:00 18:15 19:30 20:45 22:00 23:15

Ultimate Match Fishing - College The Wingshooter Fall Flight Ducks Unlimited The Wingshooter Ultimate Match Fishing - College Cowboys Ultimate Match Fishing - College Cowboys Truck Academy Duck Commander The Crush With Lee And Tiffany Truck Academy Duck Commander The Crush With Lee And Tiffany Truck Academy Duck Commander The Crush With Lee And Tiffany Cowboys Ultimate Match Fishing - College

00:00 Pawn Stars 00:30 Pawn Stars 01:00 Man Moment Machine 02:00 Declassified 03:00 Sliced 03:30 Sliced 04:00 America: The Story Of The Us 05:00 America: The Story Of The Us 06:00 Pawn Stars 06:30 Pawn Stars 07:00 Man Moment Machine 08:00 Declassified 09:00 Sliced 09:30 Sliced 10:00 America: The Story Of The Us 11:00 America: The Story Of The Us 12:00 Pawn Stars 12:30 Pawn Stars 13:00 Man Moment Machine 14:00 Declassified 15:00 Sliced 15:30 Sliced 16:00 America: The Story Of The Us 17:00 America: The Story Of The Us 18:00 Pawn Stars 18:30 Pawn Stars 19:00 Man Moment Machine 20:00 Declassified 21:00 Desperate Crossing: The Mayflower 22:00 America: The Story Of The Us 23:00 America: The Story Of The Us

00:00 Jerseylicious 01:00 Fashion Avenue 01:30 Fashion Avenue 01:55 Big Boutique 02:25 How Do I Look?

03:20 Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

04:15 Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

05:10 Homes With Style 05:35 Area 06:05 Clean House 07:00 Big Boutique 07:30 Big Boutique 08:00 Homes With Style 08:30 Homes With Style 09:00 Fashion Avenue 09:25 Fashion Avenue 09:55 How Do I Look?

10:50 Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?

11:50 Clean House: Search For The Messiest...

12:50 Clean House 13:45 Clean House Comes Clean 14:15 Mel B: It’s A Scary World 14:45 Jerseylicious 15:40 Ruby 16:35 Giuliana And Bill 17:30 Top 10

17:55 Top 10 18:25 Giuliana And Bill 19:25 Big Boutique 19:50 Fashion Avenue 20:20 Clean House Comes Clean 20:45 Clean House Comes Clean 21:15 Marry Me In Mexico: Trish’s Dream...

22:10 Clean House 23:05 How Do I Look?

00:00 Julian And Camilla’s World Odyssey 01:00 Rivers Of The World 02:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 03:00 Glutton For Punishment 03:30 Chef Abroad 04:00 Globe Trekker 05:00 Julian And Camilla’s World Odyssey 06:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 07:00 Globe Trekker 08:00 Intrepid Journeys 09:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 10:00 Julian And Camilla’s World Odyssey 11:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 12:00 Globe Trekker 13:00 Planet Food 14:00 Intrepid Journeys 15:00 World’s Greatest Motorcycle Rides 16:00 Globe Trekker 17:00 Inside Luxury Travel-Varun Sharma 18:00 Planet Food 19:00 Globe Trekker 20:00 Globe Trekker Special 21:00 Great Scenic Railways-Us And Canada 21:30 Distant Shores 22:00 Indian Times 23:00 Globe Trekker

00:05 Cow And Chicken 00:30 Cramp Twins 00:55 The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy 01:20 Courage The Cowardly Dog 01:45 Eliot Kid 02:10 Ed, Edd n Eddy 02:35 Ben 10: Alien Force 03:00 The Powerpuff Girls 03:15 Chowder 03:40 The Secret Saturdays 04:05 Samurai Jack 04:30 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 04:55 Best Ed 05:20 Skunk Fu! 05:45 Cramp Twins 06:10 Eliot Kid 06:35 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 07:00 Codename: Kids Next Door 07:25 Cow And Chicken 07:50 Angelo Rules 08:05 Cartoon Network Dance Club 08:15 Adventure Time 08:40 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 10:00 The Secret Saturdays 10:30 The Secret Saturdays 10:55 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 11:20 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 11:45 Bakugan: New Vestroia 12:35 Star Wars: The Clone Wars 13:25 The Powerpuff Girls 13:50 The Powerpuff Girls 14:15 Adventure Time 15:05 Ben 10: Alien Force 15:50 Bakugan: Gundalian Invaders 16:10 Bakugan: Gundalian Invaders 16:35 Skunk Fu! 17:15 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 17:40 Ben 10: Ultimate Alien 18:05 Hero 108 18:30 Cartoon Network Dance Club 18:45 The Marvelous Misadventures Of Flapjack 18:55 Chowder 19:20 Adventure Time 19:45 The Grim Adventures Of Billy And Mandy 20:10 Courage The Cowardly Dog 20:35 Cow And Chicken 21:00 Best Ed 21:25 Foster’s Home For Imaginary Friends

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Information

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION In case you are not travelling, your proper cancellation of bookings will help other passengers to use seats Airlines RJA JZR KAC THY ETH UAE DHX ETD MSR FDB GFA QTR THY JZR KAC RJA JZR JZR JZR BAW KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC FDB KAC KAC KAC KAC UAE QTR ABY IRA ETD GFA MEA JZR JZR IYE MSR JZR RBG KAC KAC MSR UAL RJA FDB OMA QTR KAC BBC KAC JZR QTR JZR JZR MLR ETD UAE GFA SVA JZR ABY MEA ALK JZR

Arrival Flights on Friday 8/7/2011 Flt Route 642 AMMAN 267 BEIRUT 412DBANGKOK / MANILA 772 ISTANBUL 620 ADDIS ABABA 853 DUBAI 370 BAHRAIN 305 ABU DHABI 614 CAIRO 67 DUBAI 211 BAHRAIN 138 DOHA 770 ISTANBUL 207 DAMASCUS 544 CAIRO 5234 AMMAN 241 AMMAN 503 LUXOR 555 ALEXANDRIA 157 LONDON 416 JAKARTA / KUALA LUMPUR 541 CAIRO 206 ISLAMABAD 302 MUMBAI 332 TRIVANDRUM 53 DUBAI 678 MUSCAT / DUBAI 352 COCHIN 284 DHAKA 362 COLOMBO 855 DUBAI 132 DOHA 125 SHARJAH 619 LAR 301 ABU DHABI 213 BAHRAIN 404 BEIRUT 165 DUBAI 121 BAHRAIN 825 SANAA 623 SOHAG 509 LUXOR 3553 ALEXANDRIA / SOHAG 618 DOHA 672 DUBAI 610 CAIRO 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 640 AMMAN 57 DUBAI 645 MUSCAT 140 DOHA 546 ALEXANDRIA 43 DHAKA 788 JEDDAH 257 BEIRUT 134 DOHA 201 DAMASCUS 535 CAIRO 403 COLOMBO / DUBAI 303 ABU DHABI 857 DUBAI 215 BAHRAIN 510 RIYADH 239 AMMAN 127 SHARJAH 406 BEIRUT 227 COLOMBO / DUBAI 177 DUBAI

Time 0:05 0:35 1:00 1:15 1:45 2:25 2:55 2:55 3:05 3:10 3:15 3:20 4:10 4:25 4:40 5:15 5:25 5:40 6:10 6:30 6:35 7:10 7:15 7:50 7:55 7:55 8:00 8:05 8:10 8:20 8:25 9:00 9:10 9:20 9:30 9:35 10:55 11:10 11:15 12:05 12:10 12:30 12:55 12:55 13:15 13:20 13:30 13:35 13:50 14:00 14:15 14:30 14:40 15:00 15:10 15:15 15:45 15:50 16:40 16:50 16:55 17:15 17:20 17:35 17:40 17:45 18:00 18:00

KAC KAC KAC JZR KAC KAC KAC KAC KAC AIC JAI KAC JZR FDB OMA VOS MEA KAC SVA DHX GFA ALK FCX QTR UAL UAE JZR JZR MSR DLH SAI JZR KLM JZR

166 502 542 213 744 614 674 102 774 575 572 562 787 61 647 81 402 786 506 372 217 554 304 136 981 859 135 185 612 636 441 539 447 481

PARIS / ROME BEIRUT CAIRO DEIREZZOR / ALEPPO DAMMAM BAHRAIN DUBAI NEW YORK / LONDON RIYADH CHENNAI / GOA MUMBAI AMMAN RIYADH DUBAI MUSCAT BAGHDAD BEIRUT JEDDAH JEDDAH BAHRAIN BAHRAIN FRANKFURT RIYADH DOHA BAHRAIN DUBAI BAHRAIN DUBAI CAIRO FRANKFURT LAHORE / KARACHI CAIRO AMSTERDAM / BAHRAIN SABIHA

Airlines MEA LZB JZR AXB DLH AIC PIA THY ETH UAE FDB DHX ETD MSR QTR THY JZR RJA JZR RJA GFA KAC VOS JZR BAW FDB JZR KAC KAC KAC JZR KAC KAC

Departure Flights on Friday 8/7/2011 Flt Route 409 BEIRUT 7788 VARNA / SOFIA 540 CAIRO 390 MANGALORE / KOZHIKODE 637 FRANKFURT 982 AHMEDABAD / CHENNAI 206 LAHORE 773 ISTANBUL 620 BAHRAIN / ADDIS ABABA 854 DUBAI 68 DUBAI 371 BAHRAIN 306 ABU DHABI 615 CAIRO 139 DOHA 771 ISTANBUL 508 LUXOR 5235 AMMAN 164 DUBAI 643 AMMAN 212 BAHRAIN 545 ALEXANDRIA 94 DUBAI / KANDAHAR 120 BAHRAIN 156 LONDON 54 DUBAI 534 CAIRO 177 FRANKFURT / GENEVA 671 DUBAI 117 NEW YORK 256 BEIRUT 787 JEDDAH 617 DOHA

18:40 18:45 18:50 19:05 19:15 19:20 19:25 19:25 19:25 19:30 19:35 19:50 20:00 20:00 20:10 20:15 20:15 20:20 20:35 21:00 21:25 21:25 21:30 21:35 22:00 22:00 22:10 22:35 22:50 23:00 23:05 23:30 23:35 23:50

Time 0:05 0:05 0:20 0:25 0:40 1:05 1:10 2:15 2:30 3:45 3:50 3:55 4:05 4:05 5:00 5:10 5:55 6:00 6:55 7:00 7:10 7:40 8:00 8:20 8:25 8:40 8:50 8:55 9:00 9:05 9:10 9:25 9:35

UAE ABY QTR ETD GFA IRA JZR MEA KAC JZR JZR KAC KAC IYE MSR RBG JZR MSR RJA FDB UAL KAC OMA KAC KAC BBC JZR KAC QTR KAC KAC JZR JZR ETD MLR QTR UAE GFA ABY JZR SVA MEA ALK JZR KAC KAC JAI FDB JZR KAC KAC OMA MEA SVA DHX ALK GFA KAC QTR KAC KAC FCX JZR JZR UAE JZR KAC UAL MSR SAI

856 DUBAI 126 SHARJAH 133 DOHA 302 ABU DHABI 214 BAHRAIN 618 LAR 200 DAMASCUS 405 BEIRUT 541 CAIRO 212 DEIREZZOR / ALEPPO 238 AMMAN 103 LONDON 501 BEIRUT 825 DOHA / SANAA 624 SOHAG 3554 ALEXANDRIA 176 DUBAI 611 CAIRO 641 AMMAN 58 DUBAI 982 BAHRAIN 561 AMMAN 646 MUSCAT 785 JEDDAH 673 DUBAI 44 DHAKA 480 SABIHA 773 RIYADH 141 DOHA 613 BAHRAIN 743 DAMMAM 786 RIYADH 538 CAIRO 304 ABU DHABI 404 DUBAI / COLOMBO 135 DOHA 858 DUBAI 216 BAHRAIN 128 SHARJAH 184 DUBAI 511 RIYADH 407 BEIRUT 228 DUBAI / COLOMBO 134 BAHRAIN 283 DHAKA 361 COLOMBO 571 MUMBAI 62 DUBAI 528 ASSIUT 343 CHENNAI 351 COCHIN 648 MUSCAT 403 BEIRUT 507 JEDDAH 373 BAHRAIN 554 COLOMBO 218 BAHRAIN 381 DELHI 137 DOHA 301 MUMBAI 205 ISLAMABAD 102 DUBAI 502 LUXOR 554 ALEXANDRIA 860 DUBAI 240 AMMAN 411 BANGKOK / MANILA 981 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 613 CAIRO 442 LAHORE

Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw)

9:40 9:50 10:00 10:15 10:20 10:20 10:20 11:55 12:00 12:05 12:10 12:30 13:00 13:05 13:10 13:35 13:40 14:20 14:30 14:35 14:45 14:45 15:00 15:05 15:10 15:55 16:00 16:05 16:15 16:20 16:25 16:35 16:40 17:35 17:40 17:45 18:05 18:15 18:20 18:25 18:35 18:45 19:10 19:10 20:00 20:20 20:35 20:40 20:50 21:00 21:05 21:10 21:15 21:55 22:00 22:10 22:30 22:30 22:35 22:45 22:55 23:00 23:05 23:10 23:10 23:30 23:40 23:40 23:50 23:59

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

G In 1963 the United States put its first space station, Skylab, into orbit.

G In 1985, Sen. Jake Garn of Utah became the first U.S. senator in space, aboard the space shuttle Discovery.

“...at the end of the day, it’s all about fun.”

— Nyjah Huston, below

— World Almanac for Kids

ACCOMMODATION

BY ELLEN WILKOWE The Record (Hackensack, N.J.)

Phoebe Steinfeld holds a photo of her and her late father, Ned, who died in October 2009. To honor his innovative nature, the high school student launched a line of nail polish called Color Me Cured with the proceeds benefiting the Memorial Sloan Kettering Foundation.

Teen honors dad’s legacy with nonprofit that makes nontoxic nail polish

t’s not every day a 15-year-old decides to start a business, never mind a nonprofit organization.

But that’s exactly what Phoebe Steinfeld did to honor her late father, Ned, who died of cancer in 2009.

“After my dad died, I felt strongly about doing something to honor his legacy of being a businessman and inventor,” said the New Jersey sophomore, who is now 16.

An optometrist with several practices, Steinfeld also held patents in polarized light technology.

Phoebe drew on her love of fashion to create Color Me Cured, a line of nontoxic nail polish and T-shirts.

Nearly 100 percent of sales will benefit research for the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York.

“I wanted an easy way to get people involved and make small contributions,” she said.

With an assist from her mother, Nancy, and sister Hallie, Phoebe hit the ground running.

“I am incredibly proud of her,” said her mother, who volunteers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering. “She has taken a situation that is unfathomable and was able to make some sense of it and make a difference.”

Color Me Cured is housed under the Ned J. Steinfeld Foundation, an organization started by Nancy, Hallie and Phoebe.

In sticking to her own cancer-fighting campaign — “inspiration, hope and support, one bottle at a time” — Phoebe secured a manufacturer to deliver nail polish free of common chemical culprits such as toluene, formaldehyde, dibutyl phthlate and camphor.

“I thought it was important to have a healthier product,” she said. “There is so much to be aware of in terms of harmful ingredients.”

With names like “Walking on Sunshine,” “Banish the Blues” and “Orange You Glad,” the colors not only brighten one’s nails, but one’s spirits as well.

A work in progress since last June, Color Me Cured debuted officially May 12 at an invitation-only party in New York. The gathering raised $10,000 from product sales and individual donations, she said.

Individual bottles sell for $9 each, with $7 going toward Memorial Sloan-Kettering.

“There are no administrative fees and we just subtract the flat cost of goods,” Nancy said.

Color Me Cured also has a T-shirt line that includes a hot pink tank ($12), a baseball T, below, ($22) and a black American Apparel T ($18).

The products are available online and at the gift shop at Memorial Sloan-Kettering.

Aside from the nonprofit, Phoebe also is active in her school’s chapter of DECA, a student leadership and entrepreneurial organization.

“Her father would be very proud of her,” Nancy said.

“The acorn doesn’t fall far from the tree.”

For more information go to: www.colormecured.org

Nyjah Huston, 16, of Davis, Calif., won $150,000 in each of the first two events of the 2011 Street League Skateboarding Pro Tour.

16-year-old skateboard pro wins big Here are the decisions of a 16year-old skating wunderkind.

Win $150,000 one month and settle on a Mercedes as a starter vehicle. Win another $150,000 a month later, and wrestle between making a down payment on a house, buying an SUV or perhaps doing both.

Such is the life of Nyjah Huston, of Davis, Calif., the defending Street League DC Pro Tour champion who has only improved in the 2011 season. He continued his dominance recently in Kansas City, Mo., winning his second consecutive event this season and grabbing his second $150,000 check in as many months.

“Usually he dominates,” Street League founder Rob Dyrdek said. “This time he had to fight for it.”

Huston entered Kansas City as the favorite not only because he won the season’s first event in Seattle, but also because he won the inaugural Street League championship a year ago.

A pro skater with Rastafarian dreadlocks draped down his back, Huston’s ability to gently land complex and difficult tricks makes him stand out as much as his long hair. At 11 years old, he made history as the youngest person to ever compete at the X Games, according to www.grindtv.com.

He remained near the top of the crowded pack during the first three events against a competitive field that alternated leaders. But in the competition’s final leg Huston fell on his second of seven attempts. The skaters around him, meanwhile, kept piling up points.

He fell again on his fourth attempt and dropped to last place in the six-man final.

“I pretty much thought the other guys had it,” Huston said.

Heading into his final attempt, Huston climbed back and needed to land his last trick for his second win of the year. Showing the poise of a skater who has been there before — and he has despite his young age — Huston smoothly landed the trick.

“Ice,” fellow skater Chris Cole said.

Huston scored an impressive 8.7 on his final attempt and slipped past the pack, including Kansas City favorite and fourth-place finisher Sean Malto.

By winning the first two events in the series, Huston automatically has won a place in the Aug. 28 championship in Newark, N.J., where he will compete against the nine other best skaters in the league for a $200,000 prize.

— Jayson Jenks, The Kansas City Star

New outdoor items you’ll want to snatch up G Ring Around the Bottle: In the dugout, at camp and at the beach, you can keep track of your water bottles with Bottle Totes, available in 18 cute critters. To use one, simply slip it over a standardsize bottle and clip the tote to a backpack or belt loop. Ages 5 and up.

Stephen Joseph Gifts, $4 each.

G Keep Your Eye on the Ball: Oglo Color Glo in the Dark balls (soccer, football, playground) do just that — glow in bright colors, not just the ghostly shades of the past. Bonus: The glow lasts several hours. Ages 4 and up. NSI International, $10 to $13.

G Pretend Play Gone Wild!

The 40-inch-tall, easy-to-set-up Base Camp Shelter inspired our testers to act out Animal Planetworthy backyard adventures. It also proved to be the perfect hiding place — from squirrels and siblings — when covered by the 5- by 8-foot Camouflage Netting.

Ages 3 to 8. Summit, $35 for the shelter; $15 for the netting. — Disney FamilyFun magazine

A N S W E R S : T E N T, S L E E P I N G B A G , B U G S P R AY, B O AT A N D F L A S H L I G H T

PHOTOS BY LESLIE BARBARO/THE RECORD/MCT

Sharing accommodation available for bachelor or couple in Abbassiya near Holy Sweets Restaurant. Contact: 65129145.

(C 3499) 6-7-2011 Sharing accommodation available for a single person in a fully furnished CA/C building, in Farwaniya near Burger King with kitchen & parking facilities. If interested please contact: 99038601.

(C 3490) 2-7-2011 Sharing accommodation available for decent Indian Hindu or Catholic bachelors or family with Mangalorean Catholic family in a window A/C building off Rashid Hospital, Shara Amman, Salmiya. Contact: 55995437 / 99200186.

(C 3487) 30-6-2011 Spacious bedroom with separate bathroom available for sharing in a two bedroom two bathroom flat in Abbasiya, near United Indian School for Keralite couples from June 5 onwards.

Contact: 66846299. (C 3484)

Seeking job as accountant, M.Com, PGDBA, Indian, 10 years Kuwait experience possess car, residence valid till July 2012, join immediately.

Contact: 99214246.

(C 3498) 5-7-2011 Commerce graduate, Indian (Keralite) seeking employment as Accountant / Junior Accountant in good companies. Visa transferable, ready to join. Contact: 66509373.

(C 3491)

SITUATION VACANT Need baby sitter part time or stay-in at Al-Muthana, Kuwait City.

Contact: 66809431.

(C 3493) A well organized lady is needed to do light cleaning and cooking for a single Arab/ American man living in a house located in Salmiya. Working hours: 3:00pm to 8:30pm. Salary: KD 85/ month.

Telephone: 66417504.

(C 3492) Full time and part time website developers, designers, administrators, sales and marketing specialists. Email: thinkq8@gmail.com (C 3494) 3-7-2011

FOR SALE MATRIMONIAL Toyota Corolla model 2009, white color, 1.8 engine, excellent condition, cash price KD 3,250/- (Installment possible). Contact: 66396517.

(C 3502) PC Compaq Pentium4, Ram 256, HD 40GB, DVD+CD Writer, Windows XP Professional with 15” LCD screen Lenovo, in excellent condition, price KD 45.

Contact: 99322585/ 9337034.

(C 3503) 7-7-2011 Sony LCD TV, 32 inches, excellent condition, KD 120/final. Contact: 99598324.

(C 3497) 5-7-2011

We are inviting marriage proposals from Pakistani families for our MSc daughter from Mughal family.

Contact Email: wasimughal2003@yahoo.com (C 3495) 4-7-2011 Proposal invited for Marthoma male, 29 years, company foreman. Invite proposal from MOH staff in Kuwait. Email: vijigeorge83@yahoo.com / vijigeorge83@gmail.com (C 3489) 2-7-2011

CHANGE OF NAME SITUATION WANTED

MARTY WESTMAN/MCT

Male nurse available, Kuwait experience 10 years. Contact: 66475410.

(C 3500) 6-7-2011

I, Luis Anthony D’cunha, aged 36, holder of Indian Passport no. F 8706443 residing in Kuwait hereby change my name to Luis D’cunha.

(C 3501) 6-7-2011

A

y

e niv rsar n

Sports

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Marlins finally defeat Phillies MIAMI: Mike Stanton hit a homer in the 10th inning to complete Florida’s comeback from an early four-run deficit, giving the Marlins a 7-6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League on Wednesday and averting a series sweep. With one out in the bottom of the 10th, Stanton hit a 2-1 pitch from Danys Baez (2-4) into the seats in left. He had been hitless in his previous four at-bats, striking out twice and grounding into a bases-loaded double play. The home run was Stanton’s 17th this season, and the first walkoff homer of his career. The Marlins won for only the second time in their past 17 games decided by one run. They also ended a streak of seven consecutive losses to the Phillies. Florida’s Edward Mujica (6-2) pitched a perfect 10th to take the win.

Braves 9, Rockies 1 In Atlanta, Chipper Jones hit a two-run homer as in-form Atlanta downed Colorado. Dan Uggla added a two-run homer in the eighth and Jordan Schafer had four hits for the Braves, who have won eight of their past nine, including three straight over Colorado. Atlanta starter Jair Jurrjens (12-3) earned his NL-leading 12th win, allowing one run in six innings. He has allowed no more than one run in four straight starts, leaving his NL-best ERA at 1.87. The Braves scored three runs in the first off Aaron Cook (0-4) before Jones’ homer in the third pushed the lead to 5-0.

Masterson’s Indians trounce Yankees 5-3 CLEVELAND: Cleveland pitcher Justin Masterson shut down New York for eight scoreless innings to lead the Indians to a 5-3 win over the Yankees in the clash of American League divisional leaders on Wednesday. Masterson (7-6) struck out six and got just his second win since April. He turned it over in the ninth to the bullpen, but reliever Vinnie Pestano gave up three runs before closer Chris Perez got three outs for his 21st save. New York’s Derek Jeter got hit No.

Jon Lester and Daisuke Matsuzaka. The 44-year-old knuckleballer allowed three runs and struck out seven in seven innings as Boston earned its sixth win in seven games. Blue Jays starter Ricky Romero (7-8) gave up six runs in 4 1-3 innings. He surrendered leadoff homers in the first two innings, to Ellsbury and Youkilis, and allowed five straight hits three doubles - as Boston scored four times in the fourth inning. Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon gave up one run

Brewers 3, Diamondbacks 1 In Milwaukee, pinch-hitter Casey McGehee hit a three-run homer in the seventh inning that lifted Milwaukee over Arizona. McGehee, benched three of the previous five games because of a season-long slump, hit his first home run since May. Brewers starter Yovani Gallardo (10-5) allowed one run over seven innings, helping prevent Arizona from sweeping Milwaukee for the first time. Gallardo, who gave up a home run on his third pitch of the game, struck out six and walked one. Arizona reliever Joe Paterson (0-2) gave up consecutive singles in the seventh and was relieved by Sam Demel who gave up McGehee’s homer.

Giants 6, Padres 5, 14 innings In San Francisco, Nate Schierholtz hit his second home run of the game leading off the bottom of the 14th inning, lifting San Francisco over San Diego. Schierholtz had three hits and drove in three runs for the Giants. San Francisco reliever Javier Lopez (4-1) threw two scoreless innings while Pat Neshak (1-1) took the loss for the Padres. Pablo Sandoval drove in three runs, including the game-tying runs in the eighth inning, as the Giants rallied from a three-run deficit. Andres Torres had three hits for San Francisco, which won its first game in four.

Nationals 5, Cubs 4 In Washington, Wilson Ramos’ suicide squeeze drove in Michael Morse in the seventh inning to lift Washington over Chicago. Ramos pulled off the tiebreaking sacrifice after missing the signal earlier in the count, when he swung at a Kerry Wood (1-4) pitch with Morse charging home, but managed to foul it off. Danny Espinosa and Ryan Zimmerman homered for the Nationals, and Carlos Pena and Aramis Ramirez did the same for the Cubs - all four coming with a man on base. Ryan Mattheus (2-0) pitched one inning to get his second major league win and second in five days - for the Nationals, whose past 10 wins have either been by one run or in extra innings.

Astros 8, Pirates 2 In Pittsburgh, Hunter Pence had three hits, including an RBI single during a five-run sixth inning which jolted Houston from a slump and set up with victory over Pittsburgh. Houston took the field after a team meeting that lasted an hour and 15 minutes. The Astros had lost 10 of 11 and have the majors’ worst record. Pittsburgh starter Charlie Morton (7-5) limited Houston to three hits over the first five innings, but seven of the eight batters who faced him in the sixth reached base. The Astros had six hits and benefited from two errors in the sixth. —AP

Rays 12, Twins 5 In Minneapolis, Evan Longoria had three hits and four RBIs for Tampa Bay, which avoided being swept by Minnesota. Longoria’s single gave the Rays the go-ahead run in the eighth inning, and he added a three-run homer in the ninth. He had been 3 for 28 before the game. The Rays haven’t been swept in a series of three or more games since the season-opening set against Baltimore. Twins reliever Alex Burnett (2-5) allowed three straight batters to reach in the eighth, capped by Longoria’s single. B.J. Upton pushed in the next run with a squeeze bunt, then Sean Rodriguez hit a two-run homer to stretch the lead to four. Tampa Bay reliever JP Howell (2-1) pitched a scoreless seventh for the win.

Rangers 13, Orioles 5 In Arlington, Alexi Ogando allowed four hits over seven innings as Texas completed a three-game sweep of Baltimore. Ogando (9-3) turned in his second consecutive effective outing after losing three straight starts.

Baltimore starter Jeremy Guthrie (3-11) gave up four runs in the first and allowed six runs in five innings as he took over the AL lead in losses. Mike Napoli had a three-run homer while the Rangers broke the game open with a four-run seventh. Michael Young and Nelson Cruz also had three RBIs for Texas. Young scored twice, giving him 958 runs for his career, tying Rafael Palmeiro for the Rangers record. The Orioles have lost eight of nine.

Reds 9, Cardinals 8, 13 innings In St Louis, pinch-hitter Ramon Hernandez doubled in the go-ahead run in the 13th inning as Cincinnati survived blowing an eight-run lead and beat St. Louis to avoid a three-game sweep. Chris Heisey, Jay Bruce, Fred Lewis and Scott Rolen homered for the Reds, who led 8-0 in the fifth but managed only three hits over the next seven innings. Bruce walked and Drew Stubbs singled ahead of the hit by Hernandez, the last regular on the Cincinnati bench, off Raul Valdes (0-1). Albert Pujols had an RBI single in a five-run seventh for the Cardinals. He was 1 for 6 in his first game since returning a month ahead of the timetable from a broken left wrist.

Mets 5, Dodgers 3 In Los Angeles, Ruben Tejada, filling in for the injured Jose Reyes, doubled home two runs as New York made it four straight wins by defeating Los Angeles. Carlos Beltran doubled twice and scored twice while Justin Turner got a two-out RBI single in the ninth inning for the Mets, who have scored 166 runs with two outs this season; second in the majors behind Boston. New York starter Jonathon Niese (8-7) allowed five hits over seven innings to notch a career-best four straight outings on the road. Dodgers starter Hiroki Kuroda (6-10) gave up four runs over six innings, dropping to 1-5 with a 5.75 ERA in seven career starts against the Mets.

Detroit starter Brad Penny (6-6) settled in after allowing three runs in the first. He gave up six hits over 6 1-3 innings and won for only the second time in nine starts. Jose Valverde worked a perfect ninth for his 21st save.

The Angels lost their first game in five.

ST LOUIS: Cincinnati Reds left fielder Chris Heisey leaps but cannot reach a ball hit for a home run by St Louis Cardinals’ Matt Holliday during the seventh inning of a baseball game on Wednesday, July 6, 2011. — AP 2,997 of his career and also drew a walk from Masterson, who was backed up by two sensational plays from All-Star shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera in the eighth. Rookie Lonnie Chisenhall hit his first career homer for Cleveland, which scored two runs in the first off starter Phil Hughes (0-2), but left the bases loaded twice and stranded 13 runners.

Red Sox 5, Blue Jays 4 In Boston, Jacoby Ellsbury and Kevin Youkilis both had three extra-base hits to power Boston past Toronto. Boston starter Tim Wakefield (5-3) earned the 198th win of his career, filling in for a rotation that is without Clay Buchholz,

in the ninth but earned his 19th save.

Toronto went homerless for the first time in 14 games.

Tigers 5 Angels 4 Miguel Cabrera homered during a three-run seventh inning which lifted the Detroit Tigers to a 5-4 win over the Los Angeles Angels in the American League on Wednesday. Cabrera greeted reliever Michael Kohn (0-2) by hitting a tiebreaking, two-run shot; his 18th homer of the season. Victor Martinez drove in two runs as the Tigers avoided a three-game sweep, having scored just one run over the first two games of the series.

Athletics 2, Mariners 0 In Oakland, California, Guillermo Moscoso pitched seven scoreless innings to help Oakland salvage the final game of the three-game series against Seattle. Moscoso (3-4) allowed only two singles, striking out five and walking one. He has allowed one earned run in his past 24 2-3 innings.

Scott Sizemore homered in the second inning and added an RBI single in the fifth against Jason Vargas (6-6). The Mariners had their three-game winning streak snapped.

Royals 4, White Sox 1 In Chicago, Bruce Chen pitched effectively into the seventh inning to steer Kansas City past Chicago. Chen (5-2) retired the first nine batters he faced and escaped a bases-loaded, no-out jam in the sixth with just one run scoring. Eric Hosmer homered leading off the second on a ball that just went over the glove of the Chicago center fielder at the wall.

Jeff Francoeur delivered a two-out RBI single in the fourth and hit a sacrifice fly in the sixth to make it 4-0. Chicago starter Edwin Jackson (5-7) allowed four runs in seven innings.— AP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Sports

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Tomic leads Australia in China Davis Cup clash BEIJING: Rising star Bernard Tomic will lead Australia in their Davis Cup clash against China in Beijing this weekend, with longtime team leader Lleyton Hewitt left out of the opening singles matches. Tomic, who reached this year’s Wimbledon quarter-finals, will be Australia’s number one player in the Asia-Oceania zone qualifying tie against China while debutant Marinko Matosevic, ranked 141, has beaten Hewitt for second spot. Two-time Grand Slam winner Hewitt, who made his Davis Cup debut in 1999, is Australia’s most successful Davis

Cup player with a 36-9 record in singles and 8-3 record in doubles.

Hewitt, who will be playing in his 30th Davis Cup tie against the Chinese at the Beijing International Tennis Centre in the July 8-10 match, will partner Chris Guccione in tomorrow’s doubles rubber. The 30-year-old has been passed by Tomic in the ATP rankings after the teenager’s fine run at Wimbledon, where he was beaten by eventual champion Novak Djokovic. Only Boris Becker, John McEnroe and Bjorn Borg reached the Wimbledon last eight at a younger age than Tomic, 18, and

he is seen as a future Grand Slam champion. Tomic slashed his ranking from 158 to a current 71, while former world number one Hewitt has slumped to 173.

Tomic, who has played one Davis Cup tie winning both his singles matches against Taiwan in Melbourne last year, believes he can follow Hewitt and become the backbone of the Australian team.

“I think in the years to come I’ll get better and improve even more which will help out the Davis Cup more,” said Tomic. It is new captain Pat Rafter’s first Davis Cup match in charge after taking

over from long-time incumbent John Fitzgerald and he is satisfied there are no lingering issues between Tomic and Hewitt despite their strained relationship in the past. “Obviously, that was something we were concerned about when we came into it, but they have been fantastic,” Rafter said. “They’ve been getting along really well and that’s been important.”

Rafter has warned his Australian team not to be complacent heading into the tie against China, which they are expected to dominate. A win would earn a

berth in the World Group play-off in September. Rafter said China were a challenge in the Davis Cup and had a “very good win” against Taiwan, adding: “I expect them to be very tough and a very disciplined team.” China have named a young team including 19-year-old Wu Di (ranked 404), who was one of the heroes of their win over Taiwan when he beat Lu YenHsen 9-7 in the fifth set.

The team also features 20-yearold Ze Zhang, 23-year-old Gong Mao-Xin and 24-year-old doubles specialist Li Zhe, all under the captaincy of Zeng Shao-Xuan.—AFP

Tseng impressive CV lacks US Open title COLORADO SPRINGS: World No 1 Tseng Yani isn’t shying away from her quest to become the youngest golfer in history to complete a career grand slam. The 22-yearold from Taiwan has won three different major titles and can add a US Women’s Open crown to her trophy case with a win this week at The Broadmoor course. “You know, I feel less pressure this week than before,” Tseng said. “I always feel so much pressure on US Open course.”

Tseng, who is also seeking to become the seventh LPGA player to achieve a grand slam, said she gained inspiration from watching Rory McIlroy’s victory at the US Open last month. “It’s such a tough, tough golf course. But after I see Rory McIlroy do it I feel much more relaxed. “I mean, the course, you still have to beat a course,” Tseng said. “You have got to come out here and have fun, enjoy the pressure and enjoy the big crowds.” American Paul Creamer won last year’s event, shooting a closing 69 to beat South Korea’s Choi Nayeon and Norwegian Suzann Pettersen by four shots.

Tseng won the LPGA Championship tournament two weeks ago, becoming the youngest golfer in LPGA history to win four majors.

Last week she posted a photo on her social network Facebook page showing a special spot in her Florida home where he hopes to one day display the US Women’s Open trophy. The luxury home was once owned by former golfing star Annika Sorenstam who designed the display case. Sorenstam has won three US Open crowns. “I think I just focus more on a major, and I love a tough course,” Tseng said. “I love a challenge. I know at a major you’re not going to be shooting lots of low scores. You just need to be patient. Lots of people are gonna make bogey. So if you make bogey there, it’s no worries.” Tseng, of Gueishan Township, has eight career victories with half of them coming in majors. Her mentor is Sorenstam and the two talked earlier this week about competing in the $3.25 million event in Colorado.

“She tells me she’s really enjoying to watch me play, and that made me feel lots of confidence,” Tseng said.

“She said, ‘You know, just like you did last week: smile always and have good body language, and then be aggressive. That’s how you are. You will really enjoy this week.’” Tseng is known as one of the longest hitters on the LPGA. And that will likely come into play when the tournament kicks off. The Broadmoor will be the first US Women’s Open course to play longer than 7,000 yards.

Experts say it will be difficult to shoot low scores and that the winner will need to finish around par, a far cry from McIlroy’s winning score of 16-under 268 at the US Open.—AFP

SILVIS: In this file photo, Steve Stricker watches his shot off the second tee during the final round of the John Deere Classic golf tournament at TPC Deere Run in Silvis, Ill. — AP

Two-time champ Stricker goes for rare golfing feat SILVIS: Two-time defending champ Steve Stricker will take centre stage at the John Deere Classic this week as the world No 5 seeks to dominated the event for the third consecutive year.

The 44-year-old American, who birdied all 12 par-five holes en route to a two stroke win last year, can complete a rare three-peat with a victory at the Deer Run course. “You like that extra pressure,” Stricker said.

“Hopefully, I can get an opportunity again coming down the stretch on Sunday. But it’s a long road. You got to play good. There’s a lot of good players here this week, so it’ll be tough.”

And the highest ranked American isn’t short on confidence this year having already won the Memorial tournament last month. He leads the USPGA Tour

in putting average and birdies. Stricker tees off Thursday in a group that also comprises, Mark Wilson and American compatriot David Toms who won event on a different course 14 years ago. Last year, Stricker beat Paul Goydos by two shots. If he wins Sunday it would be just the 21st time in tour history a player has won a tournament three straight years. Tiger Woods, who is skipping this event because of injuries, is the last to do it, completing the three-peat at the 2007 Bridgestone Invitational. Woods isn’t the only big name missing from this week’s tournament. Many of the top players take the John Deere off because it comes just one week before the British Open.

But this year’s field is surprisingly

strong as Stricker is expected to face a stiff challenges from players like rising Aussie star Jason Day and British Open winners Louis Oosthuizen and Stewart Cink. The 23-year-old Day, of Beaudesert, Queensland, hopes that the three-month hot streak he has been on will pay off with his second professional win. Day finished second at this year’s Masters and US Open.

Day is part of a trio that also includes Mossel Bay’s Oosthuizen who last year became the fourth South African in history to win the British Open. The third player in their group is 2009 British Open winner Cink of the US. Also competing are Americans Mark Wilson, a two-time winner on the tour this year, Zach Johnson and David Toms.—AFP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Years

Sports

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Pistorius guns for world qualification time PARIS: South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius, the famed “Blade Runner”, has only 12 days left to get the all-important qualification time that would allow him to compete in the world championships later this month. The 24-year-old runner, who had both lower legs amputated when he was 11 months old, has captured four Paralympic gold medals but since 2008 has been cleared to run in able-bodied races using his artificial legs: springy, lightweight, J-shaped limbs called “Cheetahs”.

After missing out on the Beijing Olympics by just 0.3sec, at stake now is the qualifying time of 45.25sec to ensure a slot in the South African squad at the August 27-September 4 worlds in Daegu, South Korea. “We’ve had our (South African) national trials (in March). We’ve got until the cut-off date on July 15, but I’ve had extension through to July 19 because I have two more races,” said Pistorius, who ran a best of 45.61sec at the trials. “I’ve already run the ‘B’ qualification time twice and am the second fastest South African to do so.

“I’ll be looking for 45.25 and if I get that then I’m in,” he said ahead of the Diamond League meet at the Stade de France today.

“Everything with the IAAF is cleared up so I’m treated just like any other athlete which I’m happy for. “With the progress I’m making, and with races like today’s, I believe the ‘A’ qualification will come, if not by the end of the season then in the next 12 months.” Pistorius will compete in the 400m against a field that includes US star Jeremy Wariner, the 2004 Athens Olympic 400m champion. “I’ve had a wonderful year so far,” said Pistorius. “It’s the first time I’ll be running in Paris. I’m shaky, I’m so excited.

“I opened the season with my personal best of 45.61sec, so I was very happy with that. “It went very well in the New York Diamond League. It was a great race for me. I ran out of lane one, it was raining a bit, but I still managed to run a good 45sec race. “This time out, I’m aiming to run a low 45sec race, that qualification time. If I make it this year, I’ll be extremely happy. If not, I’ve still got a year to qualify for London. “I feel in good shape, I’ve had good training and I’m hungry. It’ll be a great race.”

Pistorius said that the IAAF, world athletics’ governing body, were now fully behind him after the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled in his favor. The South African had been banned by the International Amateur Athletics Federation (IAAF), which said Pistorius’s limbs gave him an unfair advantage.

“In 2007/8 we had that battle with the IAAF, we represented it to CAS in 2008, and we ended up proving that the prosthetic leg doesn’t provide an advantage,” said Pistorius. “Since then our relationship with the IAAF has been very, very good. “In a way, I’m very happy to have done the test... because it’s been proven that they offer no advantage. We’ve got no problems with anyone now.” Pistorius said he was unfazed by running against the likes of Wariner. “I’ve raced against Jeremy a couple of times. I’ve got a lot of respect for Jeremy, who’s been at the top of our sport for quite some time,” he said.

“I’m not a threat against him. “It’s an honor to run against him and a field as strong as is lined up today, it helps me improve my times.”— AFP

Bolt pits himself against Edwards PARIS: Usain Bolt will be seeking to further hone his technique ahead of the world championships in South Korea later this month when he races the 200m at the Diamond League meeting today. It will be just the second time this season that the reigning world and Olympic double sprint champion, who is also world record holder in both the 100 and 200m, runs the longer distance. “It’s only my second 200m of the season (after winning in Oslo) and I’m just working on technique. It’s all about execution in this race, and trying to get the perfect execution,” said the 24-year-old Jamaican. “I’ve got no time on my mind. If I get a good run off the corner and my technique is right it should be a good time. A fast time should come if I get it right.”

Bolt will be up against training partner and fellow Jamaican Mario Forysthe and also Panama’s Alonso Edwards, the reigning world silver medalist who is working his way back from injury but looked in good form in winning Tuesday’s Reims international meet. Edwards pipped Forsythe by one-hundredth of a second for victory in 20.28sec, with the time likely to go a lot faster come today. Cuban world record holder Dayron Robles was also an athlete to win in Reims, finishing in an impressive 13.16sec over

the 110m hurdles against a 2.0 meter/second wind.

The Olympic champion said he had a clear goal going into the Paris meet at the Stade de France. “I’m in good shape to run in Paris and hopefully run under 13 seconds,” he said in reference to a feat he has achieved on eight occasions, the last coming in September 2008. But the Cuban remains undefeated in six races this summer, and he seems ready to challenge American David Oliver in Saint-Denis. Jamaican women’s sprint star Veronica Campbell-Brown will be looking to bounce back from a rare false start in Reims.

The double Olympic 200m champion and former world champion at 100m was disqualified for shooting out of her blocks too early in the 100m, which was won by Trinidadian Kelly-Ann Baptiste in 11.11sec. “I have no idea what happened, I’m just disappointed,” Campbell-Brown said. “I’ll try to figure out what went wrong and fix it for my next race. “I’m not the kind of athlete to false start, I think I did it once indoors, but it’s not like I’m guessing the gun or anything like that, it’s not me.

“Now I’ll have to re-program myself mentally to make sure it won’t happen anymore.”

Elsewhere on the track, controversial South Africans Oscar Pistorius and Caster Semenya run in the men’s 400m and the women’s 800m respectively. Semenya, the reigning world champion finished last in the 1500m in the Lausanne Diamond League last week, and failed to show any great improvements to her current form in Reims. The pacemaker went through 400m in 59.03sec, and Semenya immediately fell off the pace and down the pack. Cuban Yuneysi Santiusti eventually won in 2:00.15, with Semenya coming in fifth in 2:01.02 “It wasn’t my day so I’ll wait for next time,” said Semenya, who clocked a jaw-dropping personal best of 1:55.45 in storming to victory at the 2009 Berlin worlds but was cast into limbo soon after until July 2010 because of allegations over her true gender. “I’ll be ready for Friday.”

Pistorius, dubbed ‘bladerunner’, had both lower legs amputated when he was 11 months old and after being cleared to run is now seeking a 45.25sec by June 20 to qualify for the world championships. The 24-year-old Paralympic champion, who runs on springy, lightweight, Jshaped limbs called “Cheetahs”, missed the 2008 Beijing Olympics qualifying mark by just 0.3sec and will be going for broke in Paris. — AFP

BRITTANY: Three-time Tour de France winner Alberto Contador of Spain rides in the pack during the fifth stage of the Tour de France cycling race over 164.5 kilometers starting in Carhaix and finishing in Cap Frehel, Brittany, Western France. — AP

Contador, Gesink stiff but continue Tour bid SYDNEY: Australian road cyclist Carly Hibberd has been hit and killed by a car while training in Italy, with the country’s top cycling stars expressing shock at her death. The 26-year-old moved to Italy in 2009 to pursue her career as a professional, initially with the Michela Fanini-RecordRox team. She switched to the Cassina Rizzardi A Style Fionucci team, based near Como, at the start of the current season. Cycling Australia said Hibberd was on a training ride with fiancÈ and fellow rider Cameron Rogers north of Milan on Wednesday when she was struck by a car.

Emergency services flew to the scene by helicopter but were unable to save her. Rogers was

unhurt. “Carly has been racing in Italy for the past few years and loving every minute of it. She was living her dream,” his family said in a statement. “We appreciate everyone’s kind thoughts on the very sad news we received overnight, regarding Carly’s sudden passing in Italy.” News of her death sent shockwaves through Australia’s close-knit cycling community, with leading riders expressing their condolences on microblogging site Twitter. “I’m very, very sorry, I ride that road too,” wrote Australian star Cadel Evans from the Tour de France, where he held off a late charge from Alberto Contador to claim a prestigious victory on the fourth stage on Tuesday.

Richie Porte tweeted from the Tour: “Very sad to hear about the death of Carly Hibberd, thoughts are with her family and friends.”

Veteran sprinter Robbie McEwen added: “Just read the terribly sad news about the death of Aussie rider Carly Hibberd, sincere condolences and deepest sympathies to her loved ones.” Cycling Australia chief executive Graham Fredericks said the whole cycling fraternity was shocked. “Carly was following her cycling dream in Italy, doing what she loved to do and enjoying life. Sadly that dream has ended,” he said on the organization’s website.— AFP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Sports

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

NFL labor: Time getting tight NEW YORK: Lawyers for the NFL and the players’ association sorted out contract language and details Wednesday for a second straight day, hoping it could speed the process in reaching a new collective bargaining agreement. A person with knowledge of the situation told The Associated Press that attorneys met at a Manhattan law firm’s headquarters. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because a judge has directed that details of the court-ordered mediated negotiations not be disclosed.

Although the NFL owners and the players say progress has been made in the last month of meetings in various locations, the prospect of postponing the opening of training camps grows stronger every day. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and NFLPA chief DeMaurice Smith plan to return to the negotiations Thursday, along with several owners and players.

They all know that some training camps are set to open in less than three weeks and the first exhibition game, at the Pro Football Hall of Fame inductions, is Aug 7 in Canton, Ohio. The St Louis Rams and Chicago Bears are scheduled for that game. “Everyone’s back is up against the wall,” said economic consultant Dr. Jessica Horewitz, a director at Gnarus Advisors who consulted with Smith on the finer points of NFL labor before he was elected executive director of the players association.

“The last few details of the contract have to be hammered out, but I believe the big issues are pretty wrapped up: the salary cap and revenue share with the players.

“I think it will be steady progress, and if we don’t have something by the 15th. I don’t think it will long after that.” Marc Ganis, president of Chicago-based sports business consulting firm Sportscorp Ltd., and a keen observer of the league’s business side, also sees something getting done in the next week or so. “They are now up against a hard deadline,” Ganis said. “If they go beyond July 15, you likely start losing preseason games and it means less money is available overall to do a deal to satisfy both parties. “Once you start losing real and serious money that can’t be replaced, getting a deal done becomes much more difficult.”

Canceling a full weekend of preseason games would cost upward of $60 million in lost revenues. That lessens the overall income for the league that the two sides are battling over. Sure, players don’t get paid for the preseason (except for a per diem), but reducing the total pie certainly affects them. Ralph Cindrich, an attorney and player agent who has been involved in every NFL labor dispute, believes neither the owners nor the players felt any motivation to close a deal until now. He cites late June and very early in July as normally a dead time in pro football, anyway. “It is now that time when pressure has to be put on both sides,” he said.

“This is just too strong of a business not to find a solution. You go worldwide and spend a month overseas, you can see how we are in a fragile economy, and to mess with this successful business will have a devastating effect. “I do see it getting done, it’s too good a product not to get done. But I can see the tough owners taking it into overtime, causing a cancellation of the first preseason game.” Hall of Fame president Steve Perry has said the game is being planned to go on as scheduled on Aug 7. There’s much more than opening up training camps and staging preseason games that must be straightened out soon.

Free agency, for example. Depending on the rules, hundreds of players could become available. The longer it takes to reach a deal, the more frenzied the free agency signing period will be. Teams still need to instruct rookies they drafted and sign rookies who were not selected in April. Those clubs with new coaches haven’t been able to install offenses or defenses or learn unfamiliar playbooks. General managers don’t know what the salary cap will be; 2010 didn’t have a cap. The regular season is scheduled to begin Sept. 8 with New Orleans at Green Bay. “They are within a range on almost everything,” Ganis said, “and 48 hours of continued serious negotiations could get it done.”—AP

Olympics broadcast rights to top $4bn DURBAN: Broadcast revenues for the period covering the 2014 and 2016 Olympic Games will exceed $4 billion, International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Jacques Rogge said yesterday. Earlier this month, the IOC sealed a four-Games deal with NBC Universal from 2014 to 2020 worth $4.38 billion while also announcing days ago separate deals for France, South Korea and Germany with varying contract lengths.

Rogge said the 2014-2016 period, which includes the Sochi winter Olympics and the Rio de Janeiro summer Games, had already generated $3.2 billion with several major territories still outstanding. “The (total figure for 2014-2016) should be substantially higher than $4 billion,” Rogge told the IOC session. In comparison broadcasting rights revenues for the 2010-2012 period had totaled $3.9 billion while the 2006-2008 period brought in $2.6 billion in broadcasting rights revenues.

The 2018-2020 period had already secured $2.6 billion, boosted by the recent US deal with NBC. “The IOC finances are solid,” said Rogge, adding that the IOC had a consolidated surplus of $592 million as of May 2011 compared to $466 million at the end of 2009.

The IOC’s top marketing program was also improving, having secured $957 million for the 2010-2012 Games with 11 sponsors compared to $866 million for the 2006-2008 Games period. The marketing figure for the 2014-2016 Games already stood at $921 billion with nine sponsors having signed up for that period and one or two more expected to join. The IOC does not release individual contract figures with its top sponsors though companies pay around $100 million to sign up for a two-Games package.— Reuters

PYEONGCHANG: A man walks in front of a ski jump stadium prepared for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea yesterday. — AP

Sochi opens new Olympic frontiers DURBAN: Sochi’s victory in the race to host the 2014 Winter Olympics was a benchmark in Olympic history said their Games chief Dmitry Chernyshenko yesterday.

Chernyshenko, who also headed the successful bid, claimed the success of the Russian Black Sea resort in persuading the majority of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) members in Guatemala City in 2007 had opened the way for new markets for the Olympic Movement.

Chernyshenko, who is from Sochi originally, said the two subsequent winners of hosting the Games had stemmed from that decision - Rio de Janeiro for the 2016 Summer Games and South Korea’s Pyeongchang for the 2018 Winter Games.

“I really appreciate the IOC members brave decision in 2007 to give the Games to a territory that was absolutely unknown,” said Chernyshenko ahead of making a

presentation to the IOC. “Also they knew we had to start from scratch but the decision inspired new territories to bid. “It gives a good sign that new continents deserve to be opened up.

“For instance with regard to South Africa, a bid from them would have extra leverage because of the World Cup they hosted last year. “The IOC, by giving the Games then to Rio and to Pyeongchang, is really opening new horizons, new destinations and new markets.”

Chernyshenko said that he could not of course speak for the IOC but the fact that these new regions were being handled the imposing and onerous responsibility of hosting the Games reflected well on the Olympic Movement.

“It is of course up to the IOC to decide for themselves but I can only conclude its evident that new territories are delivering and it is a reflection of the health of the brand of the IOC,”

he said. Chernyshenko, a former advertising mogul, said Pyeongchang’s landslide win on Wednesday - they became the first venue to win in the first round since the tarnished Salt Lake City in 1995 was a prime example.

For the Koreans - whom Sochi had stunned for the 2014 Gamles decision - had convinced the IOC they were more deserving than two candidates from the old traditional bedrock of Olympic Games, Europe, in Munich and the French alpine town of Annecy. “The Pyeongchang victory was well deserved, though, I was surprised it was in the first round,” he said. “It showed for me that the IOC are very independent and very influential members of our society. “For they looked for who would leave the greatest legacy. The hosting of an Olympics is all about legacy - after all our motto when bidding was ‘The Gateway to the future’.”— AFP

Sports FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Turkey jails 15 more in match-fixing probe ISTANBUL: A Turkish court jailed 15 more people, including top soccer club executives, pending trial yesterday as part of a major match-fixing investigation which the prime minister said is staining the country’s image. Three executives of champions Fenerbahce, the chairman of Sivasspor and coach of Eskisehirspor were among the 15 sent to jail on the orders of an Istanbul court, state-run Anatolian news agency reported.

A total of 22 have now been jailed after seven were sent to Metris jail in Istanbul overnight. The investigation has thrown preparations for the new season into disarray just a month before kick-off and the Turkish Football Federation is expected to act soon in response to the allegations without waiting for the outcome of the case. Among possible sanctions are exclusion from competitions, relegation to a lower division and potentially the loss of tens of millions of dollars in income.

Any individuals convicted of match-fixing could face lengthy prison sentences.

Shares in major Istanbul club Fenerbahce , which won the league for a record 18th time last season, have lost a third of their value since news of the police raids emerged. Istanbul police headquarters said in a statement on Wednesday it had seized eight unlicensed guns in the raids after a probe launched in December produced evidence of match-fixing in 19 games in the first and second divisions. It also revealed a criminal gang stole and sold on questions in a football federation examination in March and had threatened players to force them to forego earnings.

‘STAINING IMAGE’ Some 22 people have so far been jailed pending trial, while 27 have been released, out of 61 people detained in raids launched early on Sunday. Another 11 were due to face the court on Thursday after questioning at police headquarters.

The most high-profile detainee, Fenerbahce Chairman Aziz Yildirim, was being treated in hospital for suspected heart problems and will face prosecutors when he is discharged.

Among others in jail are Sivasspor’s goalkeeper, a former international striker, and the former chairmen of Diyarbakirspor and Giresunspor. Prime Minister Tayyip Erdogan, himself a Fenerbahce fan, has called for a rapid and just outcome to the investigation, saying the affair was staining the country’s image internationally. —Reuters

2 North Koreans test positive for steroids BERLIN: The women’s World Cup in Germany was hit by a doping scandal yesterday after North Korea defenders Song Jong-Sun and Jong Pok-Sim both tested positive for a banned anabolic steroid, FIFA announced. The pair were removed from the lineup for North Korea’s goalless draw with Colombia in Bochum on Wednesday, but after the Group C game, the remaining 19 players in the squad were all tested by FIFA. “This is a unique event at the World Cup, but if there are two positive samples in a team it means we have to investigate,” said Dr Jiri Dvorak, FIFA’s chief medical officer. “This is a very sad day.”

The pair have been provisionally suspended and their B samples have been sent for testing by FIFA. According to SID, an AFP subsidiary, the North Korean team left Germany early yesterday morning having been eliminated after the group stages. Theo Zwanziger, president of the German Football Federation (DFB) was scathing in his criticism of the North Koreans. “This incident underlines the impression of the inhumane system in North Korea where attempts are made to give athletes success by any means possible,” he said.

“Success which can then be used for government propaganda.” But Zwanziger acknowledged FIFA’s testing methods are catching athletes who use steroids. “It is a positive that FIFA’S testing procedures seem to be working in the fight against doping,” he said. The two North Korean players were tested after the first two games against the United States and Sweden. Their samples were examined at the World Anti-Doping Agency laboratory in Kreischa, East Germany, and then at the German Sport University in Cologne. In total, there have now been three failed doping tests at the World Cup after Colombian player Yineth Varon failed an out-ofcompetition test in Leverkusen on 25 June. — AFP

BOCHUM: North Korea’s players leave the pitch for a doping test after the group C match against Colombia at the Women’s Soccer World Cup in Bochum, Germany on Wednesday, July 6, 2011. — AP

46 more footballers indicted S Korea match fixing scandal SEOUL: South Korean prosecutors have indicted 46 more footballers for alleged involvement in a widening match-fixing scandal. The players from six different teams allegedly took bribes in return for trying to fix the results of games or bet on games after learning their outcome would be rigged, prosecutors said yesterday in a statement. Prosecutors found the outcomes of 15 K-League games last year were rigged and they will continue to investigate to find out if more games were fixed, the prosecution office in the southeastern city of Changwon said.

“It has spread,” said Lee Kap-jin, the former vice president of the Korean Football Association and the head of the newly formed misconduct committee that is charged with eradicating matchfixing from the Korean game. “We didn’t expect that it would spread like this but we have to wait and see. If you are a doctor and find cancer, you have to wait and see how far the cancer has spread before you operate. “I have no idea how many players will be investigated, that is a matter for the courts, but we know that we can’t take it easy because if you do, you lose.” Eleven non-players - including illegal gambling brokers and members of organized crime groups - were also indicted over the scandal, officials said.

The latest indictments are in addition to a group of 15 - including 11 K-League

players - who were already indicted last month over similar allegations, prosecution spokesman Kwak Kyu-hong said. KLeague officials, who subsequently imposed lifetime bans on 10 of the 11 players, plan to meet in coming days to decide whether to punish the newly indicted players, a K-League official said on condition of anonymity.

The official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, said some of the new indictments were directed at players who had since quit the game. The K-League refused to comment on the new developments but told The Associated Press that it would be releasing a statement soon. “The prosecutors will continue to investigate and the K-League will act according to those findings,” Lee said. “If the KFA has any additional punishment, it can do so but we are focusing on the big picture and thinking about the future. In conjunction with the legal proceedings that are going on, we have to think about educating young players.

“The players involved so far have been adults and we want to prepare young players to protect themselves and the game. We are not concerned with the criminals behind this scandal - that is for the law - we have to think about the players. We know that this won’t be a quick solution.” The match-fixing scandal

has rocked the 28-year-old K-League Asia’s oldest professional football league - with government officials threatening to shut it down if any more schemes are committed from now on. Former KLeague midfielder Jeong Jong-kwan, who allegedly worked as a broker, was found dead in an apparent suicide in late May. The highest-profile player involved in the scandal is Suwon Bluewings striker Choi Sung-kuk, who has appeared in 26 international matches for South Korea.

Choi, who joined Suwon this year from Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma, had acknowledged attending a meeting between players and gambling brokers but insisted he rejected bribe offers. Still, prosecutors indicted Choi because he later told investigators he accepted the bribes before returning them, Kwak said.

Yonhap news agency said Choi took 4 million won ($3,760) in return for helping fix the result of a game last year. It said other indicted players received kickbacks ranging from 3 million won ($2,820) to 31 million won ($29,140). Another top indicted player is Kim Dong-hyun of military club Sangju Sangmu, who made six appearances for the national team.

Yonhap reported Kim was allegedly involved in plots to fix the results of eight K-League games and allegedly earned 400 million won ($376,050) illicitly by betting on games. —AP

World elites follow money trail to Asia SINGAPORE: The world’s football elite is jetting into Asia for a promotional blitz targeting a swathe of booming cities as teams vie for a bigger slice of the region’s growing wealth. Ten top European clubs, one national side and some of the sport’s best-known players are joining the roadshow, which gets into full swing with Arsenal and Liverpool’s arrival in Kuala Lumpur next week. Star-studded Chelsea and Real Madrid follow later, while Manchester United players brandishing the newly reclaimed English Premier League trophy have already rattled through five countries and Hong Kong on a whistle-stop tour.

Blackburn Rovers and Aston Villa are also headed east to raise their profiles-and those of their sponsors-in a region which already provides a significant chunk of English Premier League (EPL) revenues. Simon Thompson, East Asian head of football for marketing agency World Sport Group, said that Asian and Middle Eastern broadcasters spent nearly one billion pounds ($1.6 billion) on the latest EPL TV rights contracts, roughly a third of the total worldwide.

He said European clubs were keen to nurture an Asian fanbase to provide a long-term market for their products-which include shirts, memorabilia, tickets and in-house TV channels-

and to help attract sponsors. “They’re like any brand, any modern-day company,” Thompson said. “Asia is a big part of the global economy now. Alongside Brazil and Russia, it’s a huge growth market, and like any brands, they want a piece of it.

“They have to keep ever growing and Asia has the ability to drive good numbers.” Europe’s summer swing will reach a peak at the popular Barclays Asia Trophy in Hong Kong, a hotbed of football support, where Chelsea, Blackburn and Villa will play at the end of this month along with domestic champions Kitchee.

“It is important for the club to expand its brand in the Asian market, so that is important to show ourselves to them as well,” new Chelsea manager Andre Villas-Boas commented this month. Liverpool and Arsenal are both playing in Malaysia and in China, which will also host Cristiano Ronaldo’s Real Madrid in August along with the Italian Super Cup, featuring Inter Milan and AC Milan, at Beijing’s Bird’s Nest Stadium. In September, world player of the year Lionel Messi will grace the unlikely venue of Kolkata when he headlines Argentina’s friendly against Venezuela. Argentina are also scheduled to play Nigeria in Bangladesh’s Dhaka. —AFP

A

y

e niv rsar n

Sports

Years

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Peru to treat young Mexicans with kid gloves MENDOZA: Peru say they think Mexico’s young side are a Copa America threat and won’t be treating El Tri with kid gloves in today’s Group C showdown. With Chile having seen off the Mexicans in their first match, the latter, regular special guests at the South American jamboree, have it all to do, particularly as they have left many of their top names such as Chicharito behind after landing the CONCACAF Gold Cup last month.

The juniors made a gifted Chile side fight

all the way for a come-from-behind 2-1 win on Monday. And today in Mendoza the Blanquirroja say they expect a tough encounter with a quarter-final place at stake. The Peruvians took heart from their own draw in their Copa America opener against fancied Uruguay - but their coach Sergio Markarian and winger Juan Vargas are wary of a Mexican backlash. “It may not be the best team but they still have good players,” Markarian told reporters as he looked ahead to their meeting at the

Malvinas stadium 1,000 kilometers west of Buenos Aires.

“Mexico have a good team - they are not a bunch of unknowns. They are pretty much all first division players,” was how Vargas saw his rivals. On the plus side for the Peruvians, who have a poor recent record having won the last of their two titles back in 1975, Vargas himself appeared to be over the leg injury he suffered in the 1-1 draw with Uruguay. Fiorentina’s Vargas, a key man for the Peruvians, says he respects the

Mexicans as he plots how to get the better of defensive pairing Hector Reynoso and Paul Aguilar whom Markarian described as “the best there are in their positions in Mexico (while) Giovanni Dos Santos is an international name.”

Referring to his right thigh injury Vargas said he was feeling fit and ready to feature “for 90 minutes” if Markarian calls on him.

“The injury is behind me - if they want me on from the start I’ll be in the same condition as the others,” he insisted. —AFP

Uruguay wary of skilled Chileans MENDOZA: Dark horses Uruguay, thwarted by Peru, say they must go for the jugular as they come up against Group C pacesetters Chile today. A 1-1 draw with Peru was not what the Charruas had expected but their failure to break down the Andeans allowed Chile to open up a two-point lead following their entertaining 2-1 success over Mexico. With three points in their pockets the Chileans would regard a draw in Mendoza as a fine result and Uruguay keeper Fernando Muslera and striker Edinson Cavani said Wednesday that their rivals must be sent firmly packing at the Malvinas stadium.

“We have to win this one as that will settle us down,” Muslera told reporters, while Cavani echoed his assessment. “We really need the three points. It’s our dream to win this tournament and so we have to get into winning ways,” said the Napoli striker. Lazio’s Muslera insisted that the Peru match had to be seen as a building block rather than a failure of some kind. “Yes, we wanted to win it of course. But it was important not to lose too. The fear of losing is always there and every match at a Copa is a difficult hurdle. This tournament has shown as much,” said Muslera, in allusion to Brazil’s failure to beat Venezuela and Argentina’s dropped points against Bolivia.”

Muslera predicted Chile would be more adventurous than were Peru. “I think it will be a more open game - Chile like to come at you and go on the attack.” In Cavani’s view, “that the team that makes less mistakes will win it.” Many neutrals have predicted that this Copa could see the international coming of age of stylish Chilean Alexis Sanchez - but he pinpoints Humberto Suazo as the dangerman. “Suazo is a great goalscorer while Alexis is very fast and skilful on the ball who has a great understanding with Mauricio Isla” on the right.

Cavani maintains that “Alexis can make the difference at any moment.” Chile meanwhile hope to have wide man Matias Fernandez in their starting line-up despite going off injured against Mexico. “He is neither ruled out nor confirmed fit,” was team doctor Luis Maya’s view though he added that tests had ruled out a serious injury to ‘Matigol.’ Chile’s Argentinian coach Claudio Borghi said that “if Matias is okay then he will play.” —AFP

Brazil ponder changes CAMPANA: Brazil’s Robinho appears to be fighting for a starting place as coach Mano Menezes ponders his options for tomorrow’s Copa America showdown with Paraguay.

Robinho flopped - though so did his teammates - in Sunday’s opening draw with modest Venezuela, but Paraguay and Ecuador also parted goalless to leave everything to play for in Group B. Menezes tried out a few variations during training Wednesday at Campana, north of Buenos Aires, and although the first team practice match line-up was the same as for the Venezuelans he later sent Lucas and Elano into the fray in place of Ramires and Robinho.

Both Lucas and Elana came on for the final quarter hour against Venezuela at La Plata and striker Fred also had a run out - indeed it was he who replaced Robinho with Lucas later replacing Pato, who did at least carve out a number of chances. Menezes also ensured the defense had a spot of practice preparing to keep out set pieces with Paraguayan strikers Lucas Barrios and Roque Santa Cruz both dangerous in the air. The Brazil coach, who replaced Dunga after the World Cup, where Brazil lost to Holland in the quarters, will only unveil his team just ahead of the game in Cordoba.— AFP

SANTA FE: Colombia’s Mario Yepes (center) tries to kick the ball as Argentina’s Javier Mascherano defends during Group A Copa America soccer match in Santa Fe on Wednesday, July 6, 2011. — AP

Argentina booed off after 0-0 draw Argentina fail to spark again SANTA FE: Colombia held hosts Argentina to a 0-0 draw in a Copa America match riddled with missed chances that they should have won to retain their two-point lead in Group A on Wednesday. Argentina goalkeeper Sergio Romero made four saves from the Colombia attack when they had only him to beat, earning the man of the match award as coach Sergio Batista’s team were booed off by their own fans at first division Colon’s stadium in Santa Fe. “We don’t like (to be booed) but we have to respect the people, who want to see their team win,” Batista told the postmatch news conference. The home side also failed to put away chances while Batista’s tactics did not help the heavily marked Lionel Messi, who exerted little influence and even blasted a free kick over the top. The hosts could be pushed into third place in the group if Bolivia, who held the hosts 1-1 in the group opener last week in La Plata, beat Costa Rica in Jujuy on Thursday. Colombia beat the Costa Ricans 1-0 last Saturday. “Now we must keep our calm because we know we’re playing for everything in the next match,” Batista said. The first chance fell to Argentina when full back Pablo Zabaleta came in from the right in the eighth

minute and beat goalkeeper Luis Martinez with a low shot that was cleared off the line, denying the hosts a settling early lead. Ten minutes later, midfielder Esteban Cambiasso crossed from the left and the ball looked on its way in to the top far corner before Martinez tipped it away.

STINGING BREAKS Colombia, launching stinging counterattacks whenever Argentina lost the ball, should have gone ahead in the 20th minute but were guilty instead of their first glaring miss. Winger Dayro Moreno crossed low from the left wing to the unmarked Adrian Ramos but the midfielder contrived to hit the ball over the bar with Romero beaten. Six minutes later, Ramos leapt onto a poor back pass by Gabriel Milito but was tackled from behind by fellow central defender Nicolas Burdisso. Brazilian referee Salvio Fagundes played the advantage as the loose ball ran out left to the unmarked Moreno but he shot into the side netting.

“You have to remember that like us, they are trying to settle into (the game) their coach wants,” Colombia captain Mario Yepes said of the missed chances for both sides. “We’re happy with how we

played but were always wary because Argentina have players who can sting you at any moment.” Messi had one of his few potentially telling moments of the match just past the half hour with a superbly weighted through ball to Ezequiel Lavezzi but the winger delayed his shot just enough for Martinez to block. Colombia, living up to their billing as dark horses, brought two diving saves from Romero in the final three minutes of the half, first from a swerving shot from outside the box by striker Radamel Falcao and then from Moreno.

Argentina captain Javier Mascherano had a shot saved early in the second half and minutes later Colombia left back Pablo Armero shot just wide of the far post. Colombia should have taken the lead in the 67th minute when Argentina were a defender short with Burdisso off getting treatment for a nose bleed and Falcao beat the offside trap with only Romero to beat only for the goalkeeper to parry his shot. Argentina’s forwards were often guilty of getting caught offside while the Colombians ran into space well and Romero again saved the hosts’ blushes when he dived to save a late effort from substitute Teo Gutierrez.— Reuters

A

y

e niv rsar n

FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011

Years

Uruguay wary of skilled Chileans Page 63

www.kuwaittimes.net

Argentina fail to spark again Page63

SANTA FE: Argentina’s Javier Zanetti (from left) Argentina’s Gabriel Milito, Colombia’s Mario Yepes, and Argentina’s goalkeeper Sergio Romero go for the ball in their Group A Copa America soccer match in Santa Fe, Argentina on Wednesday July 6, 2011. —AP