Black & White mag Issue 37

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YANNI in town p24 23 Dh-Qa'da – 10 Dh Hijja

Vol.2 Issue 37IIOctober 21-November 6, 2011

No passes!

Absolutely no passes!

By Adarsh Madhavan I am not Dr Satish Nambiar (*), I told my friend. Dr Nambiar is the honorary chairman of the Indian Social Club (ISC). A man, who is a doctor (general practitioner) and also into organising events – big time events and perhaps, the organiser of one of the biggest events in Oman’s history so far (he organised the A.R. Rehman show a year back; a record which we are going to break now, but don’t tell him).

I was talking to a friend about our Yanni event at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) -you are probably witnessing it now – and how to quell the repeated requests for free passes from people here who are so rich, they could probably buy all of the seats themselves. I was tired of telling them that it is a charity event, where we are supporting and raising awareness of the visually challenged in Oman also trying to integrate them to society. I tell them about Omar bin Khattab Institute for the Blind; about providing vision correction treatment for 200 economically and visually challenged children and support to the Ministry of Health Research Unit for the treatment equipment for visually challenged children and I hear a stifled yawn from the other end of the line; I tell of rich people in big positions to whom I send requests for buying tickets and support this cause and they reply back saying they want good tickets FOC (free of cost, if you wondered what that stood for!).

All about X, Y & Z

My friend tells me calm down, all are not like that – there are many out there who are charitably inclined and he tells me not to worry; people will support. When, I ask him, when? After the event is over?

“You do one thing,” my friend advises me. “Why don’t you guys put an ad in the newspapers, saying ‘NO FREE PASSES’ for the Yanni show? Then, they will not trouble you at all.”

It was to this advice I had replied: “I am not Dr Satish…”

I said like that because, Dr Satish, who is quite an eventful man, has done that – gone to the media after being inundated with calls and requests whenever he

4 October 21-November 6, 2011

does events. I remember how he was hounded by many with requests, sorry no, demands for free passes for the Rahman show and when he had no other recourse, he went to the media and put in a big ad saying no free pass.

Did it work? I wouldn’t think so. It never works especially when you are a popular figure and so many people know you and you cannot afford to refuse them passes, even though you are right, because they are going to remember – especially when you need them for some official reason.

“I am not Dr Satish,” I repeated to my friend. “I don’t have his guts to go all out and say ‘NO’!” Some of my senior colleagues have got the guts, but I am a bit whimsical in this respect. I snake away, slithering to some hole when troubles hound me and I try to hide until it blows over. But, in this passes’ respect, like I said, they are going to remember the er, ‘slight’ (of refusing a free pass) until the end. And, honestly, I am tired of making enemies and I am almost on the verge of compromising myself and telling these freebie request makers that we are going to throw open the doors of the event for them free! Free, free, free! I voiced this to my friend and he stared at me for a moment and then touched my forehead.

“Everything okay, buddy?” he asked gently. Nope, I said. But, it is alright, I said, we will manage.

Our team is good. They have the ability to handle anything and everything and after all it is just passes…I said. To which my friend replied: “…and don’t forget about me. My wife and my two kids would love to come…four of us, are our passes ready?!” *(Apologies for dragging the ISC chairman’s name in this piece; this apology also stands good for something I wrote about him in 1993 in a newspaper for which he almost sued me! No passes for guessing what that was for!) editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Xclusive

24 Yanni in town Yanni is coming to Oman for the first time. The Yanni live in concert at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) is one of the first ever shows in the Middle East. Organised and presented by the Black & White, this charity concert for the visually challenged in Oman will also see the congregation of the biggest audience ever for a musical show in the country

Worried about getting old?

12

Some of the fears are quite common. And the most important factor for men is power. As you age, your power in every aspect diminishes. This is what worries men the most

38

Stevie Wonder’ of the desert Hamed bin Abdullah Al Suleiman is a perennially cheerful soul. He may be a man without sight, but he is someone with full vision. And it is this vision within him that is taking him places.

58

Mammography – the preferred examination for breast cancer

Contents

Digital mammography diagnosed quite a good percentage of cancers in women under 50 with dense breasts, thus making this method a better option for them

Published by: Muscat Press & Publishing House SAOC Black & White Postal address: P O Box 86, PC 115, Madinat Sultan Qaboos Office location: Hatat Complex A, Office no: 212, II Floor Ph: 24565697 Fax: 24565496 Website: www.blackandwhiteoman.com Editorial: editor@blackandwhiteoman.com Printed at Mazoon, Muscat, Oman 6 October 21-November 6, 2011

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

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

THE GIFT OF KINGS WWW.AMOUAGE.COM

Black & White 7

Darkness has its own colour ‘We are not creatures of circumstances; we are creators of circumstance’ -- this line of the famous thinker Benjamin Disraeli comes to my mind after reading the cover story, Cane and able (issue 36). The story of Her Highness Sayyida Sharifa bint Khalid Al Said which spoke of the irony of fate that made her plunge into the world of darkness at a tender age was quite revealing and touching. It was heartening to know that despite the loss of sight; she braved all odds to pursue her studies. It was her unwavering hope and determination that made her pave a new path in Oman, by advocating the usage of cane and trying to make others see the vibrant colours of life as a self-dependent individual. The whole article is truly an inspirational account of one….braving the sight unseen!

I would like to share with you all an incident about a young doctor couple. They used to go to work together by the public transport (buses, which are common in India). One day they met with an accident and the lady lost her sight. In order to go on in life, her husband tried his best to console her and at the same he managed to get her a simple job in an office to keep her self busy. Soon they started their morning schedule of going to work as usual, but now, their work places were in different locations. To make her self dependant he trained her with a cane. Once she asked him, “Why don’t you accompany me until I reach my destination?”

He replied,” Sorry, but, it will cost us more.” Hearing this, the wife felt quite sad and thought that since she became blind he was no longer in love with her. Days…months… rolled by and one day the bus conductor, who was quite familiar with her, asked: “Why do you always look so sad and depressed when there is someone to love and care for you?”

‘What do you mean?” she asked him. The conductor replied, “Since months I have noticed that when you take the front seat of the bus with the aid of the cane, your husband takes the back seat and is there with you till you get down at your stop. After that he steps out to take another bus to reach his office.” The woman was flabbergasted after hearing this and she could hardly utter a word. Tears rolled down her cheeks as she flung open her cane and with a new sense of determination headed towards her destination.

Dr Ishtiyaq Ahmed Khan, dental surgeon, Sinaw

Read it with concern

Readers Column

I read “Beware the anger of a patient woman” (issue 36) with concern as a parent in Muscat who could witness and, to a certain extent, address school-related issues. Though my children have finished schooling here, I still keenly observe the school scenario.

With this background, I would like to know more about the teacher’s trauma. Would appreciate it if you could share some information?

Viswanathan P, Muscat

88October October21-November 21-November6, 6,2011 2011

Growth of values a reality check The growth of values by Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi (Issue 34, August 7, 2011) was a reality checker. The values which we imbibe from elders and society peeks out somewhere or the other at a certain time. That is the reason why we all want our kids to pick up good and positive values. Youngsters are the future of tomorrow‌and it is necessary that they understand the true meaning of values and should even try to adopt it. True, today’s youngsters are picking up trends and values from the television and the people around. But in the end, the atmosphere at home is one thing that really imbibes values in an individual. Family members have a great role to play, to right the wrong in a child and till the time elders are taking care of this, values will not go away.

Keep a check on your child but explain the significance of whatever you teach them. With learning, they will understand the values!

Charu Pant, Khasab

Hats off to the brave teacher!

It is good to see that such cases ("Beware the anger..."–Issue 36) are being brought to the notice of the public. This type of harassment can happen to anyone and might have happened to someone earlier but very few people have the courage to ask for their rights. Hats off to this lady that she has taken a stand in trying to put an end to such an injustice. Next time people would give a second thought before attempting to accuse an innocent person. I am surprised that the Indian Embassy is keeping quiet in this matter. They should take necessary action and see to it that no one under their authority goes through an unfair situation like this lady and her family is going through because it must be affecting their social, mental and physical status. I hope she gets justice soon.

Maha, Muscat

Unusual tale, rare character

Readers Column

This world is peopled with unusual characters. I think Sheikha Laila (issue 34) is one such unusual being. I was totally engrossed reading that tale about her and her camels. She is really out of this world! I have a dog at home and I find it really hard to take care of her. She is just three years and is a real sweet dog, but it has not been an easy trek for me to look after her. Since my wife and I are working, we are mostly out of the home and our Sandy is alone till evening. I sometimes feel so guilty about keeping her alone at home, but then there is no choice. So, I was amazed at reading about Lilliane and her eight camels. How does she manage? That is one point, but the other is I am bowled over by the remarkable aspect of Lilliane. Despite being diagnosed with breast cancer, she had the guts to travel across the desert with her camels. Remarkable woman!

Great story!

Varsha Tilak, Seeb Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com 10 10October October21-November 21-November6, 6,2011 2011

Black 11 Black & & White White 11

Worried about GETTING OLD? ARE YOU WORRIED about getting old?

Who is not? The older they get and the more it shows, the more the worries. “I have seen many women with real fears of aging, but surprisingly, there are an equal number of men with the same worries,” reveals a psychologist of a well known clinic here. This is indeed surprising because usual surveys note that the elderly are more content with life, less depressed and less fearful of death than the young.

Men read

COMMON FEARS Some of the fears are quite common.

And the most important factor for men is power. As you age, your power in every aspect diminishes. This is what worries men the most. In fact, men hate weakness, especially physical weakness. “People harp about knowledge being power, but men, in reality is more keen on getting physical power – given a choice, they will choose the latter,” Simmons, a writer of men’s issues says. Of course, not all men are like that, and it is wrong to paint everyone with the same brush. But, the fact remains that for majority of men, physical power is everything. Most men value strength and vigour more and when their bodies weaken, they feel like it is the end of the world.

PALE GHOST “I had a fantastic body, or at least that is what I used to believe in. But, now at 52, I am hardly the size I was before and my muscles have somehow gone flabby. When I look in the mirror, I feel as though I am just a weakling. It is a pity that I have to face this at my age.

Even when I was 40, I was in quite good shape. I don’t know how I lost so much weight and power in the last few years, I feel quite low,” confesses Damien Drake, a construction worker, who was quite a power horse in his heydays. But, today, he is a pale ghost of his old self and he feels totally at loss. No amount of encouragement from peers, friends and 12 October 21-November 6, 2011

family seems to make him understand that it was just a process of nature for a person to become old.

YOUTH IS NOT FOREVER Like Dr Aaron Sanchez notes: “When you age, your body also ages and when that happens, you do feel weak. So, there is no need to feel as though it is the end of the world. My advice to aging ‘bulls’ is this: You can’t stop the ravages of time. Nobody lives forever. So, let us understand that we cannot hold on to our youth forever!”

But, tell that to Eric Warp. “I am not bothered about living forever, but, as long as I live I need to be fit and strong and also have a good body to boot. I am not interested in the aging factor. Who said that if you age, you are to lose weight and muscles and become weak? I do not want to be weak in any manner. Men are not weak either mentally or physically – that is my belief. And, if a man thinks he is weak then he has signed his own death warrant.”

DISCONTENTED CLICHÉS “Why are fully grown men, who have actually settled down and leading relatively pleasant lives, slowly becoming discontented clichés?” queries Simmons.

But, is this worry only among the middle aged or those who have just crossed that unmistakable signpost of youth? For the really aged, or the ones who have hit the 60s and 70s or are past it, seem to enjoy their youth in quite a remarkably joyous manner. “I am quite comfortable and happy about aging at 65 than I was at 55,” Derek says. He confesses that when he hit 50, he was quite disturbed and seemed to have indulged in a lot of foolishness, “like a second resurgence of adolescence; I wanted to have a second chance at sowing my wild oats.”

Derek, thankfully, is able to laugh at it today, but would it mean that all of them have to wait till they are 60 to realise that it was just one of those ‘aging’ things?

Your Heart is Safe in Apollo’s Hand

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

WEARING PINK

By Mylene Ranger

is not a crime

Some think it is a crime against masculinity. But, there are many who are changing that view. I refer to the colour pink and men. Some say that the twain does not meet and these two don’t match etc. Men and pink don’t go together…or, do they?

There is a growing interest in pink and it is not women who are after this colour. If you keep your eyes open, you are bound to notice that there are many guys out there wearing pink in public. Since pink has a stigma of femininity, some are of the opinion that it is a crime for men to wear them. “Imagine the Ceo of a company coming to a business meeting wearing pink,” shudders Sarah Mathew.

MEN LOOK GREAT IN PINK “What’s the big deal?” queries Anita Evans. “Pink is not an ugly colour and I think men do look great in pink.

Like any colours, it just needs to be made sure that the combination is right and garish shades are not chosen.”

A well-stitched powder pink dress shirt under a beige, grey or a navy suit will look great, she says.

“Pink can actually add a welcome breath of fresh air into the everyday mundane office attire,” she added.

BABY BOYS WORE PINK Maybe pink can be thought of as a female colour.

But, it wasn’t always like that. History notes that baby boys wore pink and men of the 19th century made this colour quite popular.

All of you must be aware of the popular phrase ‘in the pink’? Well, this is said to have originated from the demand for scarlet hue for men’s jackets in the 18th century.

Men read

“In the 1800s, both boys and girls wore long white dresses. Even as late as 1829, children were dressed in unisex dresses. In the 1920s, Macy’s tried to distinguish a colour for boys and girls to discourage hand-me-downs,” a report notes.

“In Christian tradition, red has always been a strong colour. And it was associated with men. So, pink became a colour associated with boys, while blue was associated with the Virgin Mary and therefore considered a girls’ colour,” the report adds.

14 October 21-November 6, 2011

After the World War I and soldiers’ uniforms were made in blue, it became associated as a masculine colour. After the 1940s, pink became more of a feminine colour. The idea was later perpetuated by marketing groups that pushed the post-war consumer boom and the creation of the middle class in the 1950s. Barbie, introduced in 1951, solidified the feminisation of the colour pink.”

COLOUR PURPLE HAS NO PROBLEM Back in the 80’s men used to wear fluorescent pink shirts and they never seemed to look feminine, fashionistas note. Colour cousins of pink like maroon and purple did not have the same stigma. “I have seen many men wearing purple and maroon shirts and no one even cast them a second glance,” notes Tim Reddy, a fashion lover who has several pink shirts in his wardrobe.

MEN LOOK SWELL IN PINK “Why can’t men wear pink?” asks Nivedita Sarkar. “This is the age of metrosexuality and men are into grooming big time. I would say that it is a new age thing, more and more are into wearing pink and they are not looked down upon anymore.

Again, let me make it clear that it is mostly men who have a problem wearing pink. Most men can find it hard to wear something that has been labeled as being feminine.

“I would personally say that whatever the colour, if men can carry it off, who is complaining? I think men look swell in pink!”

O

Rotten tomato

all ew h t ff

By Adarsh Madhavan I want to get up from my seat. Just get up from my seat, move couple of paces, reach the office pantry and make myself a cuppa. I have been mulling over it for the last 15 minutes, or more. And it has not been happening. I am not just a victim of procrastination; it is much more than that.

Everyone around tells me that I shouldn’t be drinking -- drinking tea that is – so much and finally I think I am listening to them. Because, I danged well cannot get up. My stomach feels bloated; I just want to shut my eyes, lean my head on my laptop – no, that won’t work because then one of the keys might go ‘fffffffff ffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffffff…’.

Yeah, it rhymes with zzzzzzzzzzz…

Off the wall

No, it is better to push the chair to the side and hit the floor under my desk. No one is going to see. It is not that I am feeling sleepy, but I want to sleep; it is not that I am tired, but I am feeling something like that; it is not that I have done lot of work, rather, I haven’t been doing anything at all these days…I have to write but (yawnnn) something gets in the way.

I have loads to finish; major, major chunks of work to get over, but then I can’t, I simply can’t because I feel dead. Every part of me feels dead.

Everyone around me are active, running around, full of energy and I feel as though my life has come to a standstill…some days I just go home,

16 October 21-November 6, 2011

dragging myself up the stairs, pull off my clothes and tumble on to the bed…there is more to say, but I don’t feel like it. I have been this way since some years now.

I feel like a loser. My mind is clogged; my heart feels drained, my limbs are numb…

Some days I feel so enthusiastic, so full, so energetic, I think I can rule the world, but the feeling soon dissipates and I am left clutching emptiness.

My diabetes is sick. Not me. I am well. I am good, but my diabetes is rotten. And it makes me feel the same way. I feel down, dumb and rotten. Like a tomato, yeah. Like a squashed tomato and left in the street to rot. I don’t know how and why it hit me.

And I also took my own sweet time to discover it. I have been feeling the discomforts associated with diabetes since a decade or so back and all that while I thought I was having arthritis. I have seen one of my editors shrink in arthritic pain and discomfort and whenever I had some kind of pain, I told myself that I was having arthritis. Yeah, dumb...

It is not just about feeling lethargic, listless, frustrated and dead…it was much more than that, a kind of feeling that I simply cannot fathom.

Because it is difficult to pin it down.

Diabetes is a silent killer, they say, but, I would like to add here that it is

a silent, dirty, ugly killer, which kills inch by inch, tortures and mutilates you from within and without.

It is not just the frequent nature call alarms, or the excessive thirst.

Nowadays, I can’t see anyone without squinting. Sometimes, people wave at me from a distance and I go like, are they waving at me, and I don’t tend to recognise them until they are at arm’s length. My teeth have been hurting me for some time now and now my pearlies have become dirty yellows.

Of course, life goes on, but then the quality of it has deteriorated so much that I feel ashamed to talk about it...

Because, you know, I am afraid to hurt myself. Not getting squashed under the wheels or fall of from a 10-storey building.

But, even a small cut, not only hurts, it hardly heals. I can’t even get a pin prick because it takes a month or more to heal. As days pass by the feeling of emptiness coalesces with a feeling of worthlessness and purposelessness…I feel as though my heart and mind are in wheel chairs and my spirit amputated. I know a disease should not rule our lives, but, I can’t seem to break its shackles. adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

Nawras free trial of high speed broadband Nawras is offering a free trial of high speed broadband to around 200 customers living in Al Mabailah North. For a three month period, customers will be invited to experience the benefits of Fibre-To-The-Home (FTTH) with download speeds of between 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps, completely free. This pilot project marks the exciting beginning of this new service.

Nawras is delighted to be working with Haya Water Company and the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority to implement the fibre optic technology needed to provide high speed broadband.

“Obtaining customer feedback is always of great importance to our caring company,” says Said Al Shanfari, Nawras strategic business development manager - FTTX Project Manager. “The launch of new products and services incorporates comments and experiences gathered during the planning stages to ensure that final offerings reflect real customer needs.”

All-New 2012 Chevrolet Sonic launched in Oman The all-new 2012 Chevrolet Sonic was unveiled in Oman by General Motors & OTE Group recently in the presence of Abdallah Madhoun, sales business manager – Oman and Qatar at General Motors Middle East Operations and Cyrus Vevaina, managing director, OTE Group.

The all-new Sonic is available for sale now across Oman and is designed to be a successful car in the highly competitive small car market. It will be offered as a five-door hatch and a sedan, each delivering excellent ride and handling characteristics and a sporty and sophisticated design, as well as roominess and fuel efficiency. The OTE Group is the exclusive dealer for Chevrolet in Oman offering excellent sales and aftersales service support on par with global standards with a nationwide service network.

Contact: 800 – 77007.

Book signing of ‘An Autumn Melody’ The book signing event of ‘An Autumn Melody’ by Sunaina Ahluwalia held at W. H Smith, Jawaharat Al Shatti recently.

The guest speakers on the day were Sally Sleep, president of the Womens Guild in Oman (WGO). DSR Rao, member of the Muscat Book Club and Owner and Chief architect, Architectural Wall systems and Dr Sandhya Mehta, assistant prof (Eng Dept.) Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) Published by Rupa Publications and launched in India this September, ‘An Autumn Melody’ is Sunaina’s third book after ‘A Safe Harbour’(2008) and ‘Point of No Return’ (2010). The book is now available at all WH Smith outlets in Oman.

Black & White 17

BankMuscat representative office

in Singapore

BankMuscat is all set to extend its footprint with a representative office in Singapore. Sheikh Khalid bin Mustahail Al Mashani, chairman of BankMuscat, said: “The decision to open the Singapore representative office comes at a time when banks and financial establishments around the world are passing through a difficult period, but such challenges do not deter us from identifying growth opportunities and going ahead with viable projects at home and abroad. In this context, BankMuscat is charting new territories and making its foray in Singapore.”

HSBC Oman advance account campaign HSBC launched a campaign presenting new HSBC advance account holders with a world of privileges in Oman and 86 other countries. Upon opening and funding an HSBC advance account at any of the Bank’s branches and customer service centres across the Sultanate, holders are eligible to receive sign-up gifts comprising of a complimentary night stay at the Grand Hyatt Muscat and significant discounts on food and beverage when dining at the Hotel’s restaurants. Head

of retail banking and wealth management at HSBC Oman, John E. Stubbs said, “The five-star services of the HSBC Advance account pays attention to every detail in our customers’ lives, safeguarding them with full financial protection. With the backbone of a dedicated customer service team and accredited financial planners, HSBC Advance account customers are guided through managing their finances in the present to get them where they need to be in the future.”

Wordpress

New general surgeon at Al Raffah Renowned surgeon from India, Dr Abha Singhvi has joined Al Raffah Hospital in Muscat as a General Surgeon.

Always a standout in the field of medicine and with more than 17 years’ experience, Dr Abha has most recently worked at Nizwa hospital where she was responsible for the management of the Breast Clinic. A Member of the Royal College of Surgeons, UK, since 2009, Dr Abha has impressive academic credentials. “We are delighted to welcome Dr Abha to our team here at Al Raffah hospital, she brings a wealth of experience as a distinguished surgeon and we have no doubt that she will meet every challenge head on. Her expertise in the area of breast cancer comes at a time when instances of the disease are rising in the Sultanate and we feel that her skills in this area will alleviate this,” said Seeniya Biju, senior operations manager, Al Raffah Hospital.

18 October 21-November 6, 2011

BankDhofar Visa Cards BankDhofar recently launched the Visa Platinum Debit card and the Visa Infinite Credit Card for its discerning customers. The bank constantly conducts market research to tap customer needs to come up with new, value-added products. Speaking on the occasion of the launch, Faisal Hamad Al Wahaibi, AGM retail banking, said, “We are delighted to be able to offer our customers these privileges.

Cardholders can now enjoy better services, products and have access to more venues locally and internationally.”

FRiENDi wins award FRiENDi GROUP is the winner of the prestigious Best MVNO award revealed last night at the 5th Annual Telecoms World Middle East Awards dinner ceremony. This is the second consecutive year FRiENDi GROUP has been awarded the honour.

FRiENDi GROUP was the first to introduce the MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator) concept in the Middle East, and has now firmly positioned itself as the market leader in the region. Upon receiving the award, Mikkel Vinter, founder and Ceo of FRiENDi GROUP said: ‘We’re honoured and very proud to receive

The Telecom World Middle East award for Best MVNO once again.

To have our efforts and commitment to the region and our customers recognised means a lot to all of us and encourages us to work harder.

We hope to continue bringing our friendly, customer focused and multicultural mobile services to customers across the region by offering greater value and the very latest of what technology has to offer. I would like to thank our FRiENDi Mobile valued customers, talented employees and all of our partners for their support in making this possible.”

Kenya Airways inaugurates Jeddah – Nairobi link The inaugural flight by Kenya Airways from Nairobi to Jeddah landed at King Abdulaziz International Airport on October 19 at hours (12.30) with a full complement of passengers.

Present at the airport were a number of dignitaries, including Mohamud Saleh, the ambassador of Kenya to the Kingdom, Abraham Joseph, Kenya Airways area manager – Middle East and Pakistan amongst

other executives from the airport authorities and Kenya Airways management team.

Commenting on the inaugural flight, Mr. Abraham Joseph, area manager – Middle East and Pakistan for Kenya Airways said, “Saudi Arabia is a very important market for Kenya

Mazda to use 1,800 MPa

ultra-high tensile steel

Mazda Motor Corporation, in collaboration with Sumitomo Metal Industries, Ltd. and Aisin Takaoka Co., Ltd., has become the first automaker to successfully develop vehicle components using 1,800 MPa ultra-high tensile steel. The super strength steel will debut in the all-new Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV that will commence its global launch in early 2012.

Airways and an important addition to the airline’s growing Middle East network. We are delighted to welcome Jeddah as the 56th destination in our global network, and we look forward to extending our hospitality to guests on this new service. The initial response to the launch has been extremely encouraging and we look forward to rapidly establishing our presence in the Saudi Arabian market.”

NPA Events wins award NPA Events has once again garnered glory at the industry leading IFEA/Haas & Wilkerson Pinnacle Awards competition conducted by the world’s leading International Festival & Events Association (IFEA) of Boise, Idaho, U.S.A. This coveted recognition was awarded for the innovative and path-breaking launch event of the new Mercedes Benz CLS, for Zawawi Trading Co titled CLS Cruise, which saw the car being launched onboard a luxury yacht which sailed into the sea with guests on board for the first and yet only time ever in the Middle East Region.

In fact, no one has ever thought of such an innovative and breathtaking way to launch an automobile – in the sea!

Black & White 19

Muriya Ceo outlines his success mantra to students Success and faith in oneself are two sides of the same coin; if one is endowed with the power of faith, success is sure to come by. That was the underlining message of the speech delivered by Adil Taqi, Ceo of Muriya, to the students of Asila bint Qais Al Busaidi School, recently.

Addressing students on the values that one needs to uphold to attain success, Taqi made references to real life success stories and experiences. He peppered the speech with his success mantra and provided hints and ideas on understanding the myriad facets of time, the concepts of time management and multi-tasking - key indicators of success in the life stories of people around the world. Students also gathered how to incorporate

NBO launches Sadara

Wordpress

ELITE Account

National Bank of Oman (NBO) formally launched its ‘Sadara Elite’ account for high net worth customers, at a press conference held yesterday, at NBO’s Sadara Center, in Shatti Al Qurum.

The unique and innovative Premium banking solution‘Sadara Elite’ account is aspecial deposit account for NBO’s Sadara customers. It is specifically designed keeping in mind the unique banking needs of the elite.

The key feature of this account is the interest rate which is as high as 2.75 per cent without any charges penalties on deposit withdrawals.

Moosa Al Jadidi, NBO’s head of wealth management, commenting on the occasion, said: “Our Sadara Wealth Management is an exclusive banking service, tailormade to provide our most privileged customers with personalised attention, preferential services as well as the widest range of exclusive banking products.In the recent past we launched the exclusive ‘NBO Gold Savings Account’ for Sadara customers and now ‘Sadara Elite’ is yet another step towards extending aspecial account facility to meet their financial needs. This elite account merits the very same service standards of excellence that we have extended to all our existing Sadara customers” 20 October 21-November 6, 2011

these factors in their lives and achieve the set targets in their scholastic as well as extracurricular activities.

Omantel conducts workshop The corporate business unit of Omantel conducted a workshop for different government organisations and major corporates in the Sultanate on the Multiprotocol Label Switching System (MPLS) at Grand Hyatt Muscat. The workshop was organised to shed light on this unique service and the benefits it brings to corporate customers. During the workshop, many MPLS existing customers demonstrated their experience with the service and how it helped them improve the quality of services rendered to their customers. The MPLS service that is only provided by Omantel and is ISO certified is the ideal solution to the most sophisticated needs of government organisations and major corporates that have operations in different regions of the Sultanate and who are looking for fast, reliable and yet secured connectivity solution.

Omanoil supports second traffic safety expo Oman Oil Marketing Company (omanoil) has joined hands with the national movement to challenge road accidents at the second Traffic Safety Expo by addressing the impact of calamities on the Omani society in an innovative campaign that explores the golden-age of communicating. The company’s sponsorship of the committed initiative by the Royal Oman Police follows a string of steadfast road safety programs that omanoil has employed in its capacity as an advocate of best practices both inside and outside the work place.

Topaz Coo awarded Friendship Order

in Azerbaijan

Topaz Energy and Marine has announced that Roy W Donaldson, chief operating officer for the company’s Topaz Marine division, has been awarded the 'FRIENDSHIP ORDER' of Azerbaijan by decree of the president for merits in development of the country’s oil industry. On the recent occasion of Azerbaijan’s Oilman’s Day, President of Azerbaijan IlhamAliyev decorated three foreign civilians with the high honour of “Dostlug” or Friendship Order for their contributions, among them Donaldson.The petroleum industry in Azerbaijan produces an estimated one million barrels of oil per day.

Voltamp launch Voltamp’s new Power Transformer Factory was formally inaugurated by His Highness Sayyid Shihab bin Tariq Al Said recently.

Dignitaries present were Sheikh Sa’ad bin Mohammed Al Mardhouf al Sa’adi, minister of commerce and industry and W Y Lin, president TATUNG Co, Taiwan and officials from the ministries, government, semi-government, Oman Utility Companies, oil and gas sector, industries, banks, financials institutions, etc.

The new green filed power transformer is one of its kind, a world class manufacturing facility has

been built at a Project cost of OMR 11 illion over factory built up area of 14,500 sq m on a plot of 80,000 sqm. to the latest global standard.

Spicy Village is all set for Home Centers’ Star Chef Hunt 2011 As the festive season unfolds, Spicy Village is all set for Home Centers’ Star Chef Hunt 2011. The first ‘Star Chef Hunt’ held last December was a grand success. 1173 recipes, 980 contestants, 120 finalists, 41 winners – the numbers speak for themselves. The winners got glittering prizes including LCD TVs, microwave ovens, washing machines, jewellery and most importantly 20 per cent royalty on their recipes, which comprise a special menu at Spicy Village, paid quarterly.

Home center Star Chef Hunt 2011 Entries open: Star Chef 2011 will be bigger and better in every respect. Contestants can send in their recipe by visiting http://www.spicyvillage.com/star-chef-competition. html and entering the recipe. The grand finale will be held on November 18.

Home Center is the presenter of this year’s event, while, other sponsors included Oman Fisheries with their Taca brand, Friendi mobile and Star Oil of the Star Chef Contest is the award winning Khafeef oil.

Anyone can participate, this year 50 percent of the

winning dishes will be on the traditional Omani dishes, while others from all other cuisine. Contestants can send in their recipe through our website by www.spicyvillage. com. Entries is now extended to November 5, noted Dayaparan of Spicy Village. “Remember, your innovative recipe could earn you cash month on month for the next 12 months, other than name and fame with attractive glittering gifts and prizes... so get creative!”

Calling judges: If you are a connoisseur of food and would like to join the panel of judges for Star Chef 2011, you can apply the website http://www.spicyvillage.com.

Contact http://www.facebook.com/spicyvillagellc or 99224718.

Black & White 21

The new boss

By Bikram Vohra

He quit. And the office was shocked. His direct staff, all thirty two of them moaned and groaned and wrung their hands in agony and said they would never get a boss like him, those were the days, the best was gone, things would never be the same again. They said they felt professionally orphaned and from now on things would be only downhill. A few even suggested that they would start looking for jobs because now that the boss was leaving, there would be no fun, no point sticking around. They also said that wherever he went they would follow since no other boss could replace him.

Overwhelmed by all this touching stuff, he went home and shared the warmth and the glory with his wife.

I can’t believe it, he said, they were devastated, some of them even wept, I almost feel guilty leaving.

His wife said uh, huh, and continued working which he thought was rather churlish of her seeing as how he was basking in the sun-kissed popularity radiating from a loyal and supportive staff, all of them like an extended family. He reminded himself he must write them all first rate testimonials and even considered taking a couple of the chaps with him to his new assignment, when that happened.

Sunny side up

On this high note he entered that 30 day notice period, which is rather like a stretch of no man’s land. You are there but you are not, you count but you don’t, you are in but you are out.

And then, on the eighteenth day the replacement arrived and was ushered into the small room next doors which would be his temporary office until the incumbent left two weeks down the road.

The staff of thirty two did not take all day to shift allegiance from the old boss to the new one. In the desperate rush to shuffle themselves into positions 22 October 21-November 6, 2011

Bikram Vohra, internationallyknown Gulf based scribe

of ingratiation and score points they took about twenty minutes.

The old boss was nonplussed and then even confused when in the executive toilet he overheard one of his most loyal ex-staffers outside in the corridor tell the girl who had cried at his resignation that it was a bit much the old boy not giving the new boss the office, merely good manners, don’t you think, I mean, you don’t need it, you are history, tee off, go, why do they hang around, he’s yesterday’s people.

And she said, he was always one of those hang in there till the end types and wasn’t the new fellow really nice, it will be a pleasure to work for him.

Get some action around here, said the loyal exstaffer, he looks like a go getter, thank goodness things will be different.

Over the next week, so as not to be identified with the old regime and thus risk annoying the new boss, the thirty two sidled past the old chief’s door, waved surreptitiously, grinned sheepishly, avoided his eye and cheerfully mauled him in conversations with the new boss.

The departee heard how he had been an indecisive leader with no new ideas, how he had led from behind and not from the front, how he had belonged to the old school and was not on par with modern methods and there was not a kind word, not even a hint of the mass hysteria the day he had resigned.

On the last day, he packed his personal things and went down to the car park with not one of the thirty two escorting him for the final drive away...all to busy. He came home, went to his room and began to tear up all the testimonials he had drafted.

Then he went looking for his wife. At least, and so he hoped, her loyalty would not be in question.

In Black & White

In Black...

This is Yanni’s first visit to Oman and we hope we can give him good life experience during his visit here… and dear readers, we hope you will all enjoy the show!

Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief THE ONE AND ONLY YANNI We always used to think the man waving his hands in front of the group of musicians was majnoon (crazy)! He always had a little stick in his hand and he was waving it all around as though it was making all the music. We never could understand what was going on. Little did we know that this was the man who was actually conducting the event…

EXPOSURE TO MUSIC Our only exposure to classical music was through the Oman Television, which used to relay them in the early 1970s. And, as for me, it took me many years to open my mind to classical music and performances.

ART AND CULTURAL MAP Again, this is thanks to our wise ruler His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said who showed us the way and opened our minds to the rich classical world in the early 70s itself. Today, every national and resident in Oman can be proud of an exciting new landmark that has added more charm to Oman’s musical profile – the unique Royal Opera House (ROH).

I am sure that ROH will take Oman to new heights and position Oman as the capital of art and culture in the region and also put the Sultanate on the art and cultural map.

CLASSICAL MUSIC – A CLASS APART Though I have nothing against new generation music, or any of the new trends, I believe the young should be initiated in to the world of classical music for their own creative enhancement. It is good to

have different schools of thought here, but, classical music and fans of classical music are of a different cult.

TASTE OF OMAN Oman, as a nation, is rich in its traditions and culture.

Our art forms are also unique. Each region has its own signature art forms. One of my friends who play the traditional Yola music and dance will be giving a special performance for Yanni during his visit here. It will be a short and sweet performance to give Yanni and team a glimpse into Oman’s unique art forms. Yola is a traditional dance and live musical from the northern part of Oman.

YANNI IN TOWN Oman is ready to welcome the one and only Yanni to town.

So are we at the Black & White. This issue features the first exclusive interview (in Oman) of Yanni; his views and thoughts and will be surely a good read. What can I say about Yanni? His music is magical; he transforms us to a different world, inspires us and most importantly gives us that little push to look forward in life. Personally, I am a great fan of his, and am sure there are many out there who are equivalent, if not more. This is Yanni’s first visit to Oman and we hope we can give him good life experience during his visit here… and dear readers, we hope you will all enjoy the show!

& White Black & White 23

B&W Xclusive 24 October 21-November 6, 2011

Black & White 25

B&W Xclusive

Sorry, it took so long to visit Oman:

26 October 21-November 6, 2011

Yanni is coming to Oman for the first time. The Yanni live in concert at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) is one of the first ever shows in the Middle East. Organised and presented by the Black & White, this charity concert for the visually challenged in Oman will also see the congregation of the biggest audience ever for a musical show in the country. While fans await eagerly to witness the musical giant in action, this is what he had to say to his fans here: “I am extremely excited to be coming to Oman for the very first time!

I am sorry it took me so long! I won’t let it happen again. Looking forward to seeing you all at the concert!�

Black & White 27

The Musical Hypnotist He was just 18, lost, lonely, miserable and despairing…

Life certainly had no meaning and he had enough of it. There was no need to exist even for a second and so he took a rash decision in the heat of that despair --- he was going to give up, quit, take his life…say goodbye to this one cruel world!

B&W Xclusive

And, then from somewhere, like an angel of hope, he heard it…like the pitter patter of rain on a rooftop, like the sweet noted melody of a nightingale, music…music that touched the heart, music that flowed from the heart, music that gave hope, love, strength and peace…

Enchanted, like mice following the dulcet tunes of a Pied Piper, this young hopeless lad went, suddenly finding a newfound hope in that melodious notes…he never thought of taking his life again (*).

28 October 21-November 6, 2011

Such is the power of music.

Some of them bring down the rain.

Some of them can bring down the pain.

The 57-year old American-Greek instrumental music composer and keyboardist, Yanni (nee Yiannis Chryssomallis) rains down hope, love, strength and peace into the lives of people.

MUSICAL MIRACLES Music has always brought about miracles.

In other words, there has always been music.

And then came Yanni…

Yanni came bringing in more miracles…more hope, more strength, peace and love…

Yanni has with his music brought back people from the brink of despair, suicide, from the edge

of death; gave hope to the dying, sprung new life into the hopeless, cemented torn relationships, in fact, he has, with his scintillating musical masterpieces, brought about sheer miracles into the life of many.

TOUCHED BY MUSIC “I have personally met with people who have avoided suicides, gone through the pain of chemotherapy etc because they were touched by music,” the music megastar of this era says in his first ever interview -- with any media in Oman – to the Black & White magazine. “…many have been inspired to change their lives, and have found light in their darkest hours (thanks to his music) and I am very humbled and encouraged by this,” Yanni reveals.

Music lovers have not just been mesmerised by his music -- they

have been hypnotised enough to change their lives for the better. And is there anything greater than that?

His fans would even believe that music did not exist before Yanni and perhaps, there never will be, after him (many do believe).

SECRET OF LIFE His is not the music that just creates a feel-good factor; it goes beyond, changing the course of life for many...a fact, which dumbfounds even this great musician. Of course, he knows he is on to something huge and he subtly lets it flow. He understands that music can unearth and unlock something deep and mysterious in us…that secret of life!

VOICE WITHIN YOU “Listen to the voice within you – that will show you the way,” Yanni tells us and we realise that the key to unlocking that secret is a message, a code, a feeling, or something still unexplained in the music that he has created. We don’t know what that is.

And, we needn’t either, for it does work wonders to many of us. It gives us the light in the darkest hours of our lives.

PASSION AND LOVE “Passion and love…” the musical colossus tells us in our first-ever interview with him. It is not easy to describe his entire life in music in just a few lines, but the one singular force that has made Yanni what he is today is his passion and love for his music.

HAVE FAITH Planned or just happened…how did it all come about in his journey into the world of music?

“It is impossible to plan all that has happened to me. You have to have a

lot of faith, endurance and tolerance to pain,” he says.

ACCOMPLISH THE IMPOSSIBLE He is a man who has accomplished the impossible with his music. As a child, who was his role model? Any role models still? “My parents…

Socrates…just to name a few. I tend to get inspired by human beings who accomplish the impossible!”

MUSIC WITHOUT LABELS Music means so many things to so many people, and there are purists who tend to club them, label them and confine them to certain tags, names and the like. Yanni hardly sees the difference. There are those who have called his music, ‘new age’; there are others who called it ‘contemporary instrumental’…what does Yanni wants to call his music?

“Music! I just want to call it music.

I never liked labels when applied to any form of art!”

NO LANGUAGE BARRIERS There are those who don’t listen to classical music for reasons best known to them. But, the sheer popularity and the amazing fan following Yanni has proven not only that he is the biggest proof of classical music’s immense popularity, but also that people are there in huge numbers who love it. “Because my music is mostly instrumental, the message in it breaks through the language barrier and crosses borders. “I feel very fortunate to be able to connect emotionally and spiritually with so many cultures around the world.”

GREATEST REWARDS This musical ability to connect with people has brought in rich dividends.

Besides, his charitable bent of mind

also helps him assist those in need.

“Charity plays an extremely important role in the world, particularly with the difficulties we are faced with nowadays. For me, it makes me extremely happy when I know that I have helped someone in some way.

It is one of the greatest rewards in my life to know that my music has touched people around the world.

When I was starting out as a young composer I didn’t know if my art would be able to cross borders and boundaries. Thirty years later, and after countless letters and messages, it touches me beyond belief to know that people give birth to their children, get married and get over the overwhelming pain of the loss of a loved one with my music.

“How is that possible?” he himself wants to know.

MEANING TO HIS LIFE Throughout the 30 or so years of his career, he has come into contact with people who have been changed positively by his music. What more could anyone ask? “I have personally met with people who have avoided suicide, gone through the pain of chemotherapy, have been inspired to change their lives, have found light in their darkest hours and on and on. I am very humbled and encouraged by this. It gives meaning to my life!”

UNSHAKEABLE FAITH IN HUMANITY There is so much of poverty, pain and unhappiness in this world – Could Yanni’s music try to heal, break the shackles of misery, etc…?

“Absolutely. Who you are determines everything that you create and I am an eternal optimist because of the way I was raised. I was fortunate enough to have two amazing parents.

My faith in humanity is unshakeable.

Black & White 29

All that my parents have put in me, coupled with all of the experiences that I have had over the years from coming in contact with so many cultures goes into the music; and I know that when people listen to it, all that I know is transmitted to them.

“Hopelessness is horrible. I try to bring hope to people, make them feel better about themselves, bring them love, strength and peace. This is an extremely important goal to me.

“I tend to avoid writing music about initial reactions to situations in life; like frustration or anger etc. I rather go though life’s problems and then write music about lessons learned.”

Teach them to live He may have started out as a young composer, but, today, he is the king, an icon of music… And this gives him the power to create more change. If and when he gets the opportunity to help those in need, what would be that first act of his?

B&W Xclusive

“Create an environment where they could learn to take care of themselves. I believe in the adage that ‘it is better to provide someone a fishing rod and teach them how to fish rather than to give them fish’,”

30 October 7-20, 21-November November 2011 6, 2011

Yanni says.

Touched by miracles There must be so many hundreds of great moments in his life, but could he relate one of them; something that stood out? “There are no absolutes in life. It is all in the moment. It is impossible for me to single out one because it would minimise the others. What is more important? My performance at the Acropolis in front of my family for the first time? Or knowing that an 18 year old boy did not commit suicide because of my music. Like I said earlier, I have been very fortunate in my life. I have been

touched and moved so many times.”

It is not just Yanni’s music alone, his stage presence is equally hypnotic.

And he has the gift to change people with his music, his words and his presence. And he advocates us, the hoi polloi, to do the same…But, what should we all do to make a difference to our lives and to this world like he has?

“There are as many ways to live life as there are people on this planet. I do not like to preach. If people closed their eyes and listened to the voice inside them they would know the way. It is all there. We are just not trained or educated enough to be able to listen.” (*) Partly adapted from a real life incident related by Yanni

Different strokes Anyone who has seen Yanni perform cannot but miss the bulging muscles in his arms, which must surely be coming from his indulgence in some sport. And that is a fact, not just now, but as a teenager, he had made quite a splash as a swimmer. It was not a mere indulgence then. As a competitive swimmer in Greece he had set a national record in the 50-metre freestyle competition

when he was just 14. Even today, he has not forgotten his strokes...When he is not into music, he is seen happily swimming…”I love anything that has to do with the ocean.

Swimming, sailing, scuba diving, wind surfing…” He lives life to the fullest. What moves him, what else is he passionate about? “Anything can move me. I live life to the fullest!”

The Spartan Are you a fighter?

“I am a Spartan. Once I engage, I do not quit. But I try to pick my battles well. However, there are certain lines I will never cross.”

What angers you?

I try not to give in to anger. It clouds your judgment and in general impairs your ability to cope with situations in life intelligently.

What gets you down?

Many things but I don’t stay down too long.

What does a smile mean to you?

Everything. It is one of the most important expressions that a human being can gift you with.

What does life mean to you?

“Life? Life is priceless – all of life!”

My music is not dependent on my hairstyle!

Yanni cuts a striking figure with his handsome lion-like demeanour: flowing mane of black hair, thick sexy moustache…sorry, what moustache? That is off. Since some time now Yanni is sans his trademark moustache and he is sporting a clean shaven style –his current look! We asked him why? They say that a moustache makes a man, so why is Yanni who is always known to sport a sexy moustache shave it off, we asked him, to which he retorted: “If my career as a composer was dependent on my moustache or the length of my hair, I should not be writing music!”

Black & White 31

Time to make a difference to the less fortunate

B&W Xclusive

Abdel Karim Awwad, national marketing and sales manager, Audi Oman

YANNI’S MUSIC Music is both calming to the soul and inspirational at the same time. It can make you happy when you are feeling sad; help celebrate occasions and bring in good friends. Yanni’s music lifts you and carries you on a journey.

and support to a lot of charities and organisations in the community, The company always invested in CSR in different levels and fields as our company’s vision is to empower the people of Oman who are the future of this country. Our policy welcomes all type of ideas which affect the community positively in all aspects.

FAN OF YANNI I was introduced to Yanni many years ago by friends and have been a fan of his work ever since. The opportunity to experience his music live is probably a one-in-a-lifetime . I am really looking forward to attending this concert and really appreciate the music of this great artist.

BEST PART OF GIVING It is definitely the satisfaction one gets from knowing that you have helped others. It also makes you remember that you are fortunate and in a position to make a difference to those who are not so fortunate. If you chanced upon a visually challenged person…

PERSONAL AND COMPANY’S TAKE ON CSR (CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY) I was always interested from a personal as well as a corporate prospective to offer all types of assistance

34 October 21-November 6, 2011

I think it is important to be mindful of their needs and disability and make sure to offer assistance wherever it may be required. However, we must be careful not to patronise them. I would say that we treat them just as we would sighted people.

Music for the mind, heart and soul Nadim Attieh, station manager, Al Wisal/Merge

One called it music therapy; another said it lifted the spirits and yet another feels that it was universal.

Some of the key sponsors of the Yanni Live in Concert at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) showered praise on their musical hero, Yanni, displaying their love for the superstar.

Personal admiration apart, these sponsors, who are also music lovers, explained how musicians like Yanni had the capacity to move and change the world.

They also spelt out their reasons for contributing and supporting a charity cause and said that it was disheartening to find that there were people out there with sight, yet had no vision.

YANNI’S MUSIC For me, music is a relief and an element of power that could easily change the mood and touch the emotions, whenever, wherever. Music is being used in order to maintain the health of people; we call this ‘music therapy’. One of the earliest mentions of music therapy was in Al-Farabi’s treatise ‘Meanings of the Intellect’, which described the therapeutic effects of music on the soul. Yanni is an inspirational artist who has entertained millions with his outstanding performances; his music contains so much love and soul. I personally admire him for many reasons, but mostly because he is a self-taught musician who developed his own approach to musical creativity and because he has a persistent desire to bring his music to the world.

FAN OF YANNI I am a big fan of Yanni and I have many of his albums (Keys to Imagination, Out of Silence, Reflections of Passion, etc…). I’ve been listening to Yanni since the 80’s when I was first introduced to his music.

PERSONAL AND COMPANY’S TAKE ON CSR (CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY) My personal interest is Sabco Media’s interest in CSR and it’s of our values to embrace responsibility for Sabco Media’s actions and encourage a positive impact

through its activities on the environment, consumers, employees, communities, stakeholders and all other members of the public sphere.

BEST PART OF GIVING The best part of giving is the feeling that follows this action, a lot of people give, not because they like the person they are giving to, but because they love the feeling they have, the feeling of satisfaction and goodwill, which helps them look good in the eyes of God. But in order to have this great feeling, you should really feel that you are giving; what’s the point of giving OMR5 when you own millions? At the same time, there are some who own just few thousands and yet they give OMR5 or OMR10 and I am sure they feel much better than those who have fortunes. When you want to give, give from your heart, before giving from your pocket.

If you chanced upon a visually challenged person…

Personally, I react normally but what shocks me and makes me feel that it is the greatest tragedy in life is people who have sight but no vision.

Black & White 35

Music has no boundaries

B&W Xclusive

Eihab Attia, communications manager, Shangri-La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort and Spa

YANNI’S MUSIC Music is a universal language. Yanni’s music in particular connects emotionally with every individual – it is beautiful and uplifting. It is a blend of world music, very ethnic and has no boundaries.

The resort is also an Environmental Management System ISO14001 certified by the United Registrar of Systems Ltd (URS) – the first hotel in Oman to receive this important landmark award in the commitment to environmental preservation.

FAN OF YANNI I’ve been a fan of Yanni for over 10 years.

Personal and company’s take on CSR (corporate social responsibility)

BEST PART OF GIVING I believe most of the world’s great leaders, scientists, spiritual figures, musicians, artists, businessmen… etc. were all great givers, to those in need, to charities and foundations. At a certain stage, it’s important to give and share your fortune, talents and wealth to those less fortunate. The sense of satisfaction and the feeling associated with giving and sharing is possibly the greatest act a person could do in his life.

I’m a member of the CSR committee in Shangri-La and we do conduct monthly meetings implementing environmental safe practices as well as participating in several CSR activities from donations to charities.

Shangri-La is committed to protecting the environment and participates in the awareness programmes related to climate change and corporate social responsibility activities as part of its ongoing environmental efforts.

36 October 21-November 6, 2011

If you chanced upon a visually challenged person…

I would treat him /her as a normal human being, should the person require assistance, I would be happy to do so.

Black & White 37

‘Stevie Wonder’ of the desert Hamed bin Abdullah Al Suleiman is never late for any appointment. But, this time, it was nearly 30 minutes from the time he was supposed to meet us and still no sight of him. When we called to enquire, he said: “Sorry, but the cops caught me for overspeeding and took away my license. Now, I am waiting for my driver to drop me back!” For the non-discerning that seemed like it is a perfectly normal thing to happen. When you over speed, you will be stopped. Law of the land. But, then, wait a moment. How did Hamed B&W Xclusive

Al Suleiman get caught for over speeding? He cannot drive! He is visually challenged!

38 October 21-November 6, 2011

A BRILLIANT LESSON For a moment, he had us there. The ever pleasant, the ever smiling Hamed, who hails from Saham, was a perennially cheerful soul. He may be a man without sight, but he is someone with full vision. And it is this vision within him that is taking him places. His ready smiles, his effervescent and charming nature has always wooed the world, but more importantly, taught us a brilliant lesson: smile with the world and it will smile back at you.

For us, this is an important message; we, the sighted, have never learnt to do that. We have always frowned at the world and the world has, naturally, frowned back at us. We have always looked at the world and nature negatively and we have been pounded back with nature’s fury.

Let us learn something from a man who has barely seen the world and cannot see anything now, yet has no regrets, no pain, no hatred, virtually no negative emotion even though, in all respects, he cannot, like us, see the wonders of this world.

“I was not born blind,” Hamed tells us, sipping some hot coffee. “I have some vague memory of myself seeing the world, but that is all.”

Hamed was just an infant when high fever and related ailments and infection affected his eyes. “And by the time I was 10, I was quite blind, but could still manage to see the primary colours.”

HE REMEMBERS COLOURS Hamed is 40 now. But, he still manages to mentally visualise the colours he had seen. “Red, yellow, brown, green…” he says, as our eyes mist. We see these colours everyday and we don’t even care.

“Yes, I remember the colours – especially the dark ones,” he says smiling a trifle wistfully though.

NO REGRETS AT ALL But, that is just about it. He does not show any trace of regrets.

“I have no complaints whatsoever. I am a happy man because I strongly believe everything happens for a reason and if God takes away something, by all means, he will compensate with something bigger. Nothing is in our hands. I understand this perfectly well. I lost my sight gradually and I have no other choice but to accept what has happened and learn to live with it in all humility and understanding.

“Why should I be angry and to whom? Why should I be sad? I am content. I have a very supportive family who is there at my beck and call – what more should a man ask for?”

Black & White 39

B&W Xclusive 40 October 21-November 6, 2011

NOT A CANE FAN But despite his challenge, Hamed is not a champion of the cane. He did undergo some mobility training with the cane, but, it has not helped him get out of his inherent mistrust of the cane. “I feel lost with a cane,” he said and we did not probe further.

MUSIC BRINGS GOOD CHEER Now, the real life of Hamed is one filled with music and poetry. “In spite of the blackness that I live in, the Almighty has given me a very creative mind. I love poems and ever since my childhood, I am creating poems. Music is very close to my heart and I also managed to learn the Oudh when I was young (22). And, I am glad that I chose to learn it.”

Hamed was not carrying his Oudh at the interview, otherwise he would have strung some notes and belted out a few songs. “My music adds good cheer to me as well as the listening public and the best part of my singing and music is that I have managed to make so many friends on the way.”

DESERT WONDER Hamed is lucky to have so many good friends who has helped him socialise and even lead a good life. “My friends have helped me live a pretty normal life, take walks, or, even attempt some adventurous trips… I have been on many desert crossing trips too and I just love it.”

In fact, we opened our mouths when we heard the number of times he has crossed the desert: 20. On almost all these occasions, he has regaled the members in the group with his Arabic music and songs.

Hamed’s musical exploits in the middle of the desert has also earned him the tag, ‘Stevie Wonder of the Desert’!

“It is so tranquil and peaceful out there. I am able to charge myself completely from such serene surroundings! Somehow, I always able to calm my heart – tranquility lies within us and I am able to control it; flow with it!”

NOT A HANDICAP To a query, Hamed also noted that he did not want anyone to believe they were having a handicap if they happened to be visually challenged. “But, I believe your life is your choice. Anyone can live happily, if they chose to do so. I speak for myself when I say I am content. I am happy and have no regrets.

“What if I had normal vision? I don’t know, but I think I would still be the same old Hamed – full of life!”

Hamed however confesses that he misses out having a good career.

“I wish Oman offered us the chance and opportunities for those with special needs. But for the fact that I cannot see, I am normal. So, there must be a job out there for me somewhere. I really want a fulltime job – I don’t want to depend on anyone!”

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

Black & White 41

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Management talk

Thank you Mr Steve Jobs

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

By Dr CK Anchan Steve Jobs will be remembered as one of the greatest visionaries ever. His contributions for the technological as well as entrepreneurial world, will remain as history.

Steve Jobs always stated that “keep it simple, silly” – he revolved technology which were simple to use by the masses. Everything Jobs built made life easier. It was rare to ever hear him babbling about features he created; instead he focussed on how these products made life easier for others. His focus was on solving problems that people were experiencing.

Most companies launch products and then sell them. Jobs didn’t do that with Apple. He let the public know what he was going to sell them, how it solved their problems, and that they could pre-order the product online. He created altogether a different chain of supply: don’t wait for your product or service to be released. Start selling it now. The money you earn today will help cover your costs and it will help solve any cash flow issues you may encounter during distribution.

When we want to think different and big today, one of the first name comes in to anyone’s mind is Jobs, he always thought Big, If you are in business, you are there to make money. If not, you shouldn’t be an entrepreneur. If you are going to create a business, create one that changes the world. You won’t be able to create a big company unless you solve big problems.

Jobs was smart; he always focussed his energy on a some big products instead of trying to create thousands of small ones. In other words, he went for big wins instead of looking to hit singles and doubles.

He focussed on one product or a service at a time. Jobs created an ecosystem around Apple products. By doing this Apple didn’t have to sell their products, other companies were doing it for them. Not only were they selling their products, other companies started to build products on the Apple platform and their customers were encouraged to buy and use Apple products.

Jobs was not afraid to enter a saturated market.

He had the willingness to take the product to the next level were competitors cannot reach.

The iPod wasn’t the first mp3 player. There were hundreds of others that were already out before Apple released the iPod. He just one upped everyone by creating a better product and demolishing all the competitors.

Jobs had a salary of $1 a year? That’s right, he didn’t care for money and he stated it publicly.

He cared about the company, their products, and changing peoples’ lives. Jobs worked hard even when he was sick… that’s how much he loved what he was doing. Although Jobs wasn’t the Ceo throughout all of Apple’s history, he always took care of the company. He came back, and turned the company around.

When Jobs got sick, he left Apple to spend his final moments with his friends and family. He knew what was important to him. It ‘s one of the greatest lesson - to figure out what’s important to us, no matter how much time business or job takes from our life, not to forget about what’s important.

I am sure we all miss him ...and thank him for the way we compute today and tomorrow to come.

Black & White 43

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Blackandwhite Oman

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

By Dave Green

8 7

8

6 2

4 1

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

6 3

9 7

5 4

3

2 3

5

9 2

6 9

7

1 4

7 1 8/19

Difficulty Level

By Dave Green

6 1

3 9 9 3 6 2 4 7 1 4 2 8 1 2

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

9

7

1 7 8 5 3 8 7 6 3 4 6 5 8/18

Difficulty Level

9 8 1 6 3 7 2 4 5

Difficulty Level

6 2 7 4 8 5 1 9 3

3 9 5 8 7 1 6 2 4

4 7 6 2 5 3 9 1 8

8 1 2 9 6 4 5 3 7

2 6 3 7 9 8 4 5 1

1 5 9 3 4 6 8 7 2

7 4 8 5 1 2 3 6 9 8/19

5 1 9 3 6 2 4 8 7

8 7 2 5 9 4 3 6 1

Difficulty Level

3 6 4 8 1 7 9 5 2

9 5 7 4 3 6 1 2 8

4 8 6 9 2 1 5 7 3

2 3 1 7 8 5 6 4 9

7 9 5 2 4 3 8 1 6

6 4 3 1 7 8 2 9 5

1 2 8 6 5 9 7 3 4

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

5 3 4 1 2 9 7 8 6

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

Solution:

8/18

Black & White 45

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

00.

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

Your sta ARIES March 21-April 20

TAURUS April 21-May 20

GEMINI May 21-June 21

New ideas and announcements at work will cause much discussion amongst coworkers. Although information is scattered or unreliable, the underlying theme is solid: workplace change will be forthcoming in the next three weeks. Discuss your feelings openly with friends and close relatives: others may need to hear your ideas.

Spiritual awareness and emotional strength are highlighted this week. Pay close attention to dreams, intuitions and insights into the behaviour of others. Watch contracts and important documents for hidden clauses or potential mistakes. Messages and invitations from family members may be misleading.

Your expertise and confidence will attract attention at work. Expect colleagues and business officials to rely heavily on your advice or ask your opinion concerning personnel, office dynamics or future policy. For some, this may cause minor conflicts with co-workers or a subtle shift in office relations.

CANCER June 22-July 23 Over the next three weeks many Cancerians will begin to see the faults and vulnerabilities of business partners. Key spiritual issues involve admiration for unethical individuals or accepting the flaws of past teachers, mentors and leaders. All of this will, eventually, be quite liberating.

VIRGO August 24-September 23

LEO July 24-August 23 Plan to spend extra time with close friends and romantic partners. Others may need emotional encouragement concerning long term business goals and family decisions. Be supportive and optimistic: at the moment, friends and lovers are vulnerable and open to suggestion.

Over the next few days the added scrutiny of minor finances and spending habits will bring increased income over the coming three weeks.

Avoid lending, offering business advice or taking on new financial obligations. At the moment, many Virgos will feel a strong desire to help others.

AISHWARYA RAI BACHCHAN (BORN 1 NOVEMBER 1973) is an Indian film actress. She worked as a model before starting her acting career, and ultimately won the Miss World pageant in 1994. Rai has acted in over 40 films in Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, and Bengali. Often cited by the media as the "most beautiful woman in the world", Rai made her acting debut in Mani Ratnam's Tamil film Iruvar, and had her first commercial success in the Tamil movie Jeans. She gained the attention of Bollywood through the film Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali. Her performance won her the Filmfare Best Actress Award. In 2002 she appeared in Bhansali's Devdas, for which she won her second Filmfare Best Actress Award. Rai's off-screen roles include duties as brand ambassador for various charity organisations and campaigns.

She is married to fellow actor Abhishek Bachchan. In 2009 she

Horoscope

was honoured with Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award given by the Government of India.

46 October 21-November 6, 2011

ars LIBRA September 24-October 22 Expect close friends to reveal their vulnerabilities or doubts concerning business decisions and relations with authority figures. Offer advice and words of encouragement: it may now be important for others to improve their reputation and impress business officials.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 Delicate information at work or conflicts of interest in business relationships may be the theme. Expect colleagues and business partners to reveal a series of recent ethical mistakes or misunderstandings. Key issues may involve office policy, hidden alliances or finding fault with the reputation of a friend.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Expect slow but steady emotional movement in key relationships over the coming few days and weeks. Some Sagittarians may also now discover an exciting new lover, group of friends or social outlet. If so, expect this to arrive quickly in your life and be highly passionate.

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 At the moment, your romantic insights are strongly accurate and may lead others to search out your wisdom and observations. Pay close attention to dreams, intuitions and glimpses at the true character of others. Key issues may involve attitudes toward parent/child relationships.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 You will develop a fresh approach to expressing emotions and setting boundaries in relationships. Spiritual and emotional awareness is high at the moment. Over the next few days expect others to be drawn to your confidence and frank method of self expression.

PISCES February 20-March 20 Expect the arrival of new documents or financial information. Large corporations or government agencies may now offer permissions, needed paperwork or delayed funding applications. Business ideas are expansive and positive over the coming three weeks.

Black & White 47

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

00.

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

Kidstuff 48 48October October21-November 21-November6, 6,2011 2011

Facts about

ELEPHANTS 10 Fun Facts About The African Elephant

• An elephant calf often sucks its trunk for comfort • Elephants prefer one tusk over the other, just as people are either left or right-handed • Elephants use their trunk as a snorkel when swimming • Elephants waive their trunks up in the air and from side to side to smell better • An elephants’ skin is an inch thick • Elephants flap their ears to keep cool • Elephants spend up to 16 to 18 hours per day eating • An elephant’s trunk is the fusion of the nose and upper lip • Elephants’ tusks grow throughout their lives • Elephants use their feet to listen, they can pick up sub-sonic rumblings made by other elephants, through vibrations in the ground

Tongue Twister Eleven benevolent elephants Black 49 Black & & White White 49

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

Circulation

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

Oman Air – CBD NBO- CBD area Bank Muscat Bank Sohar HSBC Standard Chartered Oman Arab Bank Harmony Music Centre – Next to OAB Bahwan Travel Agencies – CBD banks area OTTB – Oman Travels Bureau Air India office – CBD next to Costas Costas Papa John Supa Save – CBD Woodlands Bank Dhofar Horizon Restaurant – (Next to Moon travels) Oman post office Lulu Darsait Khimji Ramdas Head office, Muttrah (Kanaksi Khimji & pankaj Khimji) Majan College – Darsait junction (canteen) Indian Social Club Melody Music Centre – Next to ISM German Embassy – Hamriya roundabout Apollo Medical Centre Computer Xpress – Hamriya Roundabout Atlas Travels (Wadi Adai Roundabout (next to polyglot) Hatat House Passage to India Best cars Hyundai/Subaru/GM showroom Al Asfoor Furnishing Ahli Bank Shell marketing office SEAT car showroom- Wattayah DHL office- Wattayah Honda Showroom Sabco Head office wattayah NTT travels Wattayah Toyota Bahwan Advertising – Ist floor – Toyota showroom Lexus Ford showroom Shanfari Automotive Wattayah Motors- VW showroom Khoula Hospital Institute of Health sciences – opposite Khoula Kia showroom- wattayah QURUM AREA TOWARDS AL KHUWAIR Al Harthy ComplexPizza Muscat – next to Sultan Center in al Harthy complex Sultan Center Nissan showroom BMW showroom Muscat Private School Qurum city centre Pizza Hut – Qurum Capital Store Al Asfoor Plaza KFC Hardees Fono showroom next to Sabco centre Shah Nagardas Sabco Centre- Barista coffee shop only Al Araimi Panasonic Showroom NBO Qurum Al Khamis Plaza Al Wadi commercial centre – Coffee shop Mercedes showroom

50 October 21-November 6, 2011

CCC- Stand CCC Al Fair Bollywood chat Pizza Hut – Qurum Second Cup Nandos McDonalds Salman Stores Jawahir Oman Hamptons Business Services & Travel Amex office Ernst & Young buildg (OUA Travels) Starbucks Hawthorne institute- ELS Fahud Street, opp Qurum park Mumtaz Mahal Left bank Oman Association for the disabled Ministry of education (20 +20=20) Muscat Intercon Jawaharat Al Shatti complex- stand Oasis by the sea - crepe café stand LNG Office Al Qurum resort Bareek Al Shatti Complex Al Qandeel head office -, Entrance of Bareek al Shatti Al Shatti Cinema - Dunkin Donuts Al Sahwa Schools– principal’s office next to Ramada hotel Hotel Ramada Al Muriya Offices- next to Al sahwa schools Grand Hyatt Muscat Al Masa Mall Radio Shack Al Sarooj Complex Shell Petrol Bunk- Al Sarooj Al Fair Ramee Guestline Rock Bottom Classic Institute of Arts- next to Asas Oman Asas Oman Apartments Crowne Plaza Coral hotel Qurum Pvt school PDO Ras Al Hamraa Club Omanoil head office AL KHUWAIR/MSQ TOWARDS AZAIBA ELS – Al khuwair service road British School Muscat – MSQ British Council Oman oil- Madinat Qaboos Pizza Hut Khimjis mart – MSQ Kargeen Café Al fair Family Book shop- MSQ Tavola – Al Noor Hall buildg Starbucks Hana slimming centre – Ist Floor Fotomagic Al Noor Hall Al Jadeed Eqarat office Above Welcare Clinic – al Khuwair Domino Pizza Oman mobile Safeer Hypermarket Mustafa Sultan Souk Technia Omantel Oman international Bank – Al khuwair main office Ibis Hotel

Park inn Hotel Friendi Office Muscat Bakery Tropical Ice creams Subway Pizza Hut service road Ice Skating Rink National Training Institute Golden spoon Restaurant Shell Select- Al Khuwair Mcdonalds Mct holiday Inn Hotel Oman Bowling Center Halliburton Café Vergnano Khimji Mart – Next to Verganano Safeer suites Axa insurance (opp assarain Al khuwair) Zakher shopping Mall PAN Furnishing Harley Davidson Thrifty Al Amal Medical Centre – Dr Bashir Hotel Radisson Pizza Hut Al Khuwair Ozone Video Shop(Next to Pizza Hut) American British School Omar Khayyam Restaurant, next to V kool Grill House (next door) V Kool TAISM Centre for British Teachers – CFBT Baushar Complex Café Aviation Club Restaurant AZAIBA TOWARDS SEEB Lulu Hyper market – Baushar Oman Medical college College for Business & financial Studies opp Oman medical, baushar Azzan Bin Qais school - Baushar Muscat private Hospital Dolphin Village – Bausher Royal hospital Ghala industrial area – NTI National mineral water – Tanuf ( next to Al Madina Holiday Inn) Oman oil Azaiba Spicy Village – Rusayl Pizza Hut – Ghala Oman oil – Ghala Towell head office – Enhance & Ist floor Mazda showroom Mcdonalds – Azaiba Select shell Azaiba Oman Tribune – Al Watan office New India assurance Azaiba office Safeer Hypermart Nawras head office Zubair showroom and Yamaha corporate office(two places)- Yamaha Showroom – close to Zubair showroom – 1st floor Polyglot Institute GU Tech – Beach road Azaiba Chedi Muscat The wave Muscat corporate office NACA – national cancer Awareness Assn MCC – Crepe Café Al Bahja– Mood Café & food Court Al Maya Super market Oman air Seeb office (Below Flyover, before Golden Tulip) Oman Tourisn College Golden Tulip Hotel Air port Select Shell – Seeb Pizza Hut airport KFC

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

SALALAH

SOHAR

NIZWA

Muscat golf hills, SEEB KOM SQU – SQUH hospital , SQUH 2- canteen, 3Diplomatic Club, 4 – College of Commerce, 5 – Students banking area) Pizza Hut – al Khoud Sultan School al hail service road – principals’ office Caledonian college – principal’s office Oman Foot ball association

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

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

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

RUSAYL AREA Rusayl Industrial Estate Oman Cables Sadolin Paints Jotun Paints Al waqia shoes Mehdi Foods Areej veg oils MINISTRIES AREA – AL KHUWAIR Ministry of tourism(Ghala, next to ISG) Ministry of social Development(next to Regional municipalities, Bank Mct) Ministry of foreign affairs

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

HOTELS Crown Plaza Hilton Salalah Hamdan plaza Dhofar Hotel Salalah hotel Haffa House Redan Hotel Al- Hanaa Hotel BAMSIR hotel Al- Jabel hotel Al- Nile suite (Saada) Salalah Marriott MINISTRIES Ministry agriculture & fisheries Ministry of education Ministry of defense Ministry of housing & electricity Ministry of water Ministry of tourism Diwan of Royal court (Salalah) Ministry of primary court and justice Ministry of Commerce & industry Dhofar municipality (Baladia) Ministry of man power PETROL STATIONS, BANKS Shanfari filling Station shell select, al saada Oman oil Shell Salalah Bank Muscat Omantel Oman Arab Bank Pizza hut Dhofar University Al Maha souk

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

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Black & White 51

Cooking 52 52October October21-November 21-November6, 6,2011 2011

FRESH LIMES

ON THE MENU

Lemons are the most commonly used flavouring ingredient in the culinary arts, after salt and pepper. Used in everything from baking to sauce making to meat and vegetable cookery, lemons bring their own tangy flavor and bright aroma, while actually enhancing a dish’s other flavorsIf you love good taste and healthy food add a squeeze of lemon to your recipes. Here are few lime fresh recipes‌

LEMON BUNS Overall timing one hours plus cooling Ingredients: 2oz Caster sugar 5tbsp lukewarm milk 2teasp Dried yeast 8oz Strong plain flour Salt Grated rind of 2 lemons 1 egg 1 egg yolk 2oz Butter

Method: Dissolve 1/2 teasp of the sugar in the milk and sprinkle the yeast on top. Leave in a warm place for 15 minutes till frothy. Sift the flour and a pinch of salt into a bowl and stir in the remaining sugar and lemon rind. Add the yeast mixture, beaten egg and yolk and melted butter and mix to stiff dough. Divide between greased 12-hole bun tray. Cover with oiled polythene and leave to rise in a warm place till doubled in size. Preheat the oven to 375F. Bake the buns for about 25 minutes till well risen. Cool on a wire rack.

LEMON BARS Overall timing 1 hours plus cooling Ingredients: 1/2 cup powdered sugar 1 1/2 cups flour 1/2 tsp. salt 3/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces Topping: 4 eggs 1 1/2 cups sugar rind of lemon, grated 1/2 cup lemon juice, fresh 3/4 cup whipping cream powdered sugar, for dusting

Method: Preheat oven to 325 degrees F. Spray a 9 X 13in baking pan. Mix sugar, flour, and salt into a bowl. With a pastry blender, cut in the butter really well. Press the mixture into the base of the pan. Bake until golden brown, about 20 minutes. For the topping, whisk the eggs and sugar together until blended. Add the lemon rind and juice, mix well. Lightly whip the cream and fold into the egg mixture. Pour over the lemon bars and return to the oven. Bake until set, about 40 minutes. Cool completely before cutting into bars. Sift a small amount of powdered sugar over each bar.

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It's my life

Simplicity… where are you?

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

By Vandana Shah

A lollipop, orange ice cream, a ribbon in the hair, a tiny chocolate, a smile from a child, rain on a hot day, water in the desert, a warm shawl on a chilly day, a friend when you are lonely, shade on a sunny day, a slick dress when you have no clothes to wear, getting a job when you are almost broke…so many simple things that enrich our lives and cost almost nothing and yet its queer that we run after complicated and difficult things in life and yearn for them and are disappointed when we don’t get them….I tell you, we are bizarre.

So many times I have seen people give up a fantastic relationship because it is not challenging or complex enough. Whatever happened to loving the simple and straightforward?

I think we run after the so called convoluted things in life because they seem more precious to us as opposed to simplicity. Besides they also seem to arouse a basic instinct in us of winning challenges. But I don’t think it is necessary to create challenges when none exist.

It’s like when we get things easily we believe something is wrong and don’t appreciate it and a lot of times in the bargain we lose it all.

I would go with the simple and even look for it because not many people will be looking for it and I can have it all to myself.

So many times just doing that we are able to give our relentless running around a break and sit back and enjoy without the taxing part. Maybe that’s why I even write simply as I don’t have to show off my vocabulary and use BIG BIG words. I know my readers love it and I am what I am because of my readers.

So next time before running after a sundae appreciate the simple, no-nonsense, humble popsicle.

Till next time love and hugs.

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

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

Black & White 55

EXERCISE HATERS, stop, READ THIS!

Shape n sound

Are you an exercise hater? Study after study has shown that regular physical activity -- even at moderate levels -- reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer, high blood pressure and obesity and enhances physical and mental functioning. If that is true, why are so many of us still choosing a sedentary lifestyle? Truth hurts: many of us shun exercise because of a variety of reasons. Even though our hubbies maybe exercise or fitness freaks (that itself could be one reason), we tend to shy away because of reasons best known to us. A bit of soul searching would lead us to one or many reasons as to why we don’t like – rather hate – exercise. Some of these issues would not just be personal, but deeply ingrained in us since our childhood. Let us quickly explore three or four key and common issues in this regard. The biggest excuse would be time:

56 October 21-November 6, 2011

NO TIME YAAKI A trip to the gym or a quick walk or jog is often sacrificed for less trivial pursuits. For those who are real exercise haters, anything and everything can add up to be an excuse. You may have had a bad day at office, and ideally that is the time when you should go all out and exercise, shed not just the pounds, but the office frustrations away, but, instead, you may just flop down in misery and then dunk into fattening food and/or drown in liquid that not only slips you away into a form of escapism. That is precisely the word: escapism. Exercise haters are big-time escapists and instead of hitting the floor and springing back into shape and wellness, you double

up and slide down a path of misery when things go down. Exercise is the last thing on your mind when you are down, which, honestly, should be the other way around.

NO MONEY YAAKI If this is a genuine reason, then, fine, we don’t have much to say, except that there is no reason to have even a baisa in your purse to be used for the purpose of exercise.

Funds may prove to be deterrent to some women in their flailing or initial attempts at fitness. But, again, the truth is otherwise. You don’t need any money to keep yourself fit. All you need to do is buy yourself some trainers, a suitable walking/jogging wear and just pound the roads in your neighbourhood. In fact, you will bump into many exercise haters who are fighting their excuses and winning at it even.

So, don’t talk of funds being a major hurdle on your path to fitness. We don’t believe you. You don’t need a baisa to keep yourself fit.

NO RESULTS, YAAKI We live in a super fast age where speed and immediate results are the mantras we thrive on. Unfortunately, you can’t expect to have become fit after half an hour in the most expensive gym. It doesn’t work that way and there is no point in fooling yourself that things work that way.

Exercise results do not happen like microwave heating. You can’t just jab your body into some fitness routine and then expect results overnight.

But, the tragedy is that many women give up long before they get there because there aren’t any immediate results or benefits of exercise. There is no magic pill as far as exercise is concerned. You have got to do it do it do it do it and do it some more!

NO SUPPORT, YAAKI Yes, sometimes it can be discouraging when you dip your hand into an arena of exercise, hoping to find someone somewhere who can hold it and take you along, not just into a voyage of discovery, but into a world of exercise bliss. It does help when a spouse, a friend or a family member provides that little, but essential bit of encouragement.

Many have known to give up mid way because of lack of encouragement from this circle. So, those reading this may please take this chance to help a spouse, friend or family member in need. They need to exercise, lose weight or let it be any reason – help them do it!

Black & White 57

MAMMOGRAPHY

– the preferred examination for breast cancer SYLVIA, 44, NOTICED A LUMP in her breast and did a mammography. But the test did not reveal anything. Thankfully, she also did a biopsy of the lump and it revealed something dreadful: breast cancer.

“I was shattered but also heaved a sigh of relief that I had managed to discover it before it got too bad.

However, I was surprised that the mammography did not reveal cancer,” she says, adding that she was not completely knowledgeable about her ailment so she did not question this aspect of science. “But, a doctor told me that is was nothing unusual. Women like me don’t benefit much from traditional film mammography,” Sylvia noted. What she meant there was that women, who are either under 50 and have not gone through menopause, have lumpy or dense breasts, who do not benefit from traditional mammography. Digital mammography diagnosed quite a good percentage of cancers in women under 50 with dense breasts, thus making this method a better option for them.

MOST DEBATED Mammography is possibly the most intensely scrutinised and debated medical procedure of our time, but there is virtually no disagreement on two points. First, there is no other breast cancer screening tool that has a better combination of sensitivity and specificity. Second, as practiced today, mammography could be better. But, that is a big debate to be looked into on another date. Mammography is the preferred examination for breast cancer, especially in women older than 40 years, the age group with the highest incidence. Some studies have shown that

mammography may be particularly beneficial for women who are 80 years of age and older.

ASSISTS EARLY DETECTION The earliest sign of breast cancer is an abnormality depicted on a mammogram, before it can be felt by the woman or her physician. When breast cancer has grown to the point where physical signs and symptoms appear, the patient feels a breast lump (usually painless).

Ultrasonography, CT, nuclear medicine study, and MRI have adjuvant roles. In younger patients, due to increased breast density, which may mask small cancers, additional tests such as ultrasonography, nuclear medicine study, and MRI may be useful. Mammographic sensitivity for breast cancer declines significantly with increasing breast density and is independently higher in older women with dense breasts. Hormonal status has no significant effect on the effectiveness of screening independent of breast density.

SAVES LIVES “Mammograms don’t prevent breast cancer, but they can save lives by finding breast cancer as early as possible. For example, mammograms have been shown to lower the risk of dying from breast cancer by 35 percent in women over the age of 50. In women between ages 40 and 50, the risk reduction appears to be somewhat less,” notes experts.

Many experts recommend annual mammograms for women over 40.Finding breast cancers early with mammography has also meant that many more women being treated for breast cancer are able to keep their breasts. When caught early, localised cancers can be removed without resorting to breast removal (mastectomy).

Shape n sound

NACA’s month-long campaign The fight against cancer in Oman has stepped up with great efforts by the National Association for Cancer Awareness (NACA). They were the ones to introduce for the first time in the country a Mobile Mammography Unit (MMU). The MMU is meant to serve women who otherwise might not have access to breast cancer screening and cancer education.

The NACA is currently running a month -long campaign at the Qurum City Centre (QCC). This initiative includes the stationing of the Mobile 58 October 21-November 6, 2011

Mammography Unit in the premises of the QCC between October 1 and October 31. The unit, which will provide women with free, easy and convenient access to a mammogram examination, is manned by an all-women team, is equipped with the latest facilities and would help in early detection of breast cancer.

Between Saturday and Wednesday, the MMU will be open between 10am and 1pm and 4pm to 9pm; on Thursday it is open between 10am and 1pm and 4pm to 10pm;

on Fridays it will be open from 4pm to 10 pm. The awareness campaign was launched by Her Highness Dr Muna bint Fahad Al Said, assistant vice-chancellor, SQU and patron of NACA. During the month, the NACA will be using Qurum City Centre as a venue and platform to create more awareness of the disease and to raise funds for research into its cause, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and cure through an exhibition campaign titled ‘The Power is in Your Hands’.

Black & White 59

Shape n sound 60 October 21-November 6, 2011

What makes you

By Sarah Baker

WHAT MAKES YOU (the woman) happy?

No, it is not a loaded question. What is it that makes you happy? Is it a good and loving husband and family? Loads of money? Power?

Shopping? Cosmetics, clothes and a career where you are free to do as you like?

Don’t get bogged down because you are sitting before a smorgasbord of opportunities, today. Go for whatever it is that suits you and you will be happy. But, let us find out what makes you happy from the general ones that has been cited here (and around).

TO BE OR NOT TO BE Today’s women are not like any other. We have innumerable choices. We can choose to be or not to be…we can choose to live a married or single life or have one or plenty of children. We can chose to have a marriage and a career or just one of them alone. We can even make our men share domestic responsibilities.

AIR OF DISCONTENT Yet, why this air of discontent? We have everything: a fulltime career, children, a good husband, family, friends, enough wealth to splurge, no physical ailments, yet… Yet, we are unhappy. We are not short of achieving our goals, yet when we seem to gain one rung of success, we are worrying about the next one and this worrying seems to be making us dissatisfied, discontented and constantly seeking something more… Something more than what even men want, it seems.

LOST SIGHT “Women are 10 times more likely to be severely depressed than they were 50 years ago,” says Sarah Allen, a psychiatrist. “Most women have lost that much-needed vision of a simple life because the distractions are much more; their needs and wants are much more.

And somehow on their way to perfection, they seem to have lost sight of how to be happy.”

LONG-LASTING HAPPINESS But, Allen strictly feels that the only way that you can nail the elusive long-lasting happiness is to get in touch with your true self and what makes you feel good. “When life lacks meaning, especially in the frenzied run to gain something, then you are bound to say: what is the point? And, that is when you learn the hard way that life cannot be happy unless you have an answer to this question: what is the point?

It may not be that simple, but if you are going to climb the ladder of happiness, you need to be careful that it is not leaning against a different wall.

In short, unless we have a clear and well defined idea of what is that we need to become happy, we are all going to be one miserable lot, which is sad, says Allen.

VICTIMS OF MULTIPLE CHOICES Sad, yes. But Agony Aunt, Lucy Rice, has this to say: “We live in a world where we are given the freedom to choose, but in a multi choice society, we finally become victims. For too much of anything, even good, is not good. We often come to this realisation too late and by the time we home in to what we really want and that elusive happiness becomes real, we are not equipped to meet it.

“We, as women, are more bothered about what the other person thinks and most of us constantly live a life to meet other people’s expectations, which is why we are suddenly hit by despair when we realise we have been building our lives for someone else’s likes or dislikes.”

BAIL OUT THIS UNREALISTIC NEED Perhaps, if we drop this unnecessary expectation, bail out this unrealistic need to prove something to someone else in a sea of reasoning, we may somehow get washed on to the shore of happiness. And, when we push ourselves up, shake off that despair and explore this new world of happiness, we may, perhaps, enjoy a second renaissance of happiness or whatever elusive feeling that we have been chasing after all this life.

Black & White 61

Live today!

Hooked

By Priya Arunkumar The book said 1001 quotes to transform your life.

Wow, 1001 sentences can change your life?

All my life I was and am talking or else listening to someone, but not one line changed any day for me!

There were days when I knew I have said more than what I should have and days when I knew I haven’t done my fair share.

Many a day went by with regrets for not saying what I should have!

But, not a word changed my life, or rather transformed my life.

Some of the marketing lines can hook you instantly and haunt you, until you get it done, only in the hope that some miracle is going to happen and you will be in the middle of it all!

I chose to walk away that day, not picking up the book, but the 1001 quotes tag remained embedded in some corner of my mind. I knew I was hooked.

After two months, yesterday I finally bought the book; my mind believes that my life could be transformed! Maybe, just maybe, there might be some line out there on that 90 pages book that could really transform my life! Now, by transformation, I am not looking at winning a lottery, just a little word that could make me a better person.

Maybe I will learn to be a little more tolerant, a little kinder and little more adaptable?

Jokes apart, we all believe there is something out there beyond our reach that could magically change our lives for good! I’ve gotten many e-mails from people asking me for advice. The common thread that runs through them all is that they want to make sure they’re doing it right. And they think I know better? We grow up with the idea that we have to look for others for answers. But, who am I to say what they should be doing? There are no guarantees in life, so how can I guarantee?

I am no different! I was never right.

I am not sure too, that I am doing right I just did!

Though I think I can do whatever I want to, there are many times, I come down to practical levels to realise the bitter truth. Well, at least for a few hours!

Being incurably optimistic, I feel, nothing can pull me down, other than for a few hours, and then I bounce back. I know am responsible for how I feel. I can blame external things, which I do conveniently, but it will never change how things are.

Ok, here we go, I open a page and it says: Start living the life you want to live today!

Now, that’s not easy.

And that’s not possible.

Maybe I can start?

How do I start? priya@blackandwhiteoman.com