Black & White mag Issue 39

FREE Fortnightly

www.blackandwhiteoman.com

Adventures of Mabrook, the sailor p30 12 Muharram – 6 Shafar

Vol.2 Issue 39II December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

www.renaissance-oman.com

Don’t wait for an accident to change your view on speeding.

October was one of the worst months so far this year for Oman in terms of road deaths, new statistics released by the Royal Oman Police show. As many as 110 people were killed across the country in trafďŹ c accidents during the month, while another 903 sustained injuries, in a total of 670 incidents.

Speeding and not wearing seatbelts are the leading causes of road accidents. Please drive safely.

Issued in public interest

Xclusive of 30 Adventures Mabrook, the sailor Mabrook Sangour bin Shaneen Al Busaidy, a 79 year old sailor, pearl diver and fisherman, relives his sailing days and unveils some of the adventures he has had in those days

Bitter Batter corrupts 40 Power People in power can be dangerous when they misuse their power. Let it be whatever power they have -- even if it is to release a document, approve something

14 14

Promises to make and keep‌

We still have some more time to go for the D day, this time, so let us quickly look at some of the resolutions that men must make, not just this coming New Year, but permanently!

55

Dancercise your way out of misery

Contents

Exercise loves company and adores rhythm, so why pound a treadmill when you can dance your cardio workout away, experts query

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, Oman 6, 2012 4 December 7, Muscat, 2011-January

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

Caught in the lens of my own prejudice

By Adarsh Madhavan Sometimes scribes like me are caught in the lens of their own prejudice. I stand shamefacedly at the end of this year with this confession: I haven’t done justice to my profession. What have I done as a journalist this year?

Silence.

More silence.

Dead silence.

I try to grope my way out of this void, trying to make sense of my duty to this profession and I can’t for my life figure it out. If I have accepted the fact that I am not allowed to subscribe to the fair, accurate and unbiased story, could I, at least, do a fairly accurate story? If readers believe that we are telling the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth, then, by God, I haven’t lied – not at all.

But, have I allowed myself to lower my standards, accepted words as they shouldn’t be and allowed myself to be garlanded by a string of words that lent itself or any meaning, then I should be hung. For, I have, more than often, let it be…let a tired phrase, let a cliché, let a line loose on which I myself would trip when I read it in print. I have this unfortunate fear to read anything that I have written and comes out in print. Somehow, I would always be disappointed at what I have written because I know I have not been fair to the word, to the line and to myself. I know I could have bettered it, had I read it twice, or at least once, instead of skimming through it.

Whatever depths my ability to write a word or a sentence has plummeted, it should not be because of a lack of diligence.

Talent can wax and wane and while I held no credence to my talent or ability to write, I knew that in the past hard work was something that I swore on. While others cruised on a line, I trudged; I sweated tears and blood and made sense of it, even though at times, it went off the tangent.

I honestly don’t know why. Where is that soaring spirit; being in the grip of that writing madness? Now, I am stumbling in the shadow of my past integrity and while

I keep the ugliness of plagiarism, falsification, and blatant lying at bay, I am still caught in the mindless warp of self doubt and that nagging feeling of being a crippled when I am unable to free myself from the yoke of self censorship that I am lugging behind my back.

Then there is this money monster that raises its head at odd times, especially when you are on a good wicket and driving forth on a hard story when the ugly head raises itself and hisses. The words screech to a halt and although I know the rule that advertising does not blend with editorial, at times, the lines blur.

The head goes giddy with this potpourri of edit, news, and advertorial and while you try to pinch yourself to the fact that advertisements pay a large chunk of your bills, the other governing factor is also fear.

Fear of everything. Fear of the unknown, in fact, fear of the known too, because you know too well the consequences of a journalistic act that is not considered daring anywhere else, but is almost a foolish act of journalistic suicide because writing that story would be that – law suits, hounding and public loathing and the fact that it is a lonely world not on the top, but at the bottom of the steps when everyone shun you like you were like the lord of the lepers.

Then, there is this perennial query of whether you are in this business to sell your paper or magazine, or have it closed down in the same flourish you began it? That is when conscience takes a beating because you realise that you are actually flogging a dead horse. For a scribe, his/her ethics are like an inviolable contract with the public, but, when they demand something else, why do you want throw pearls, you wonder.

Especially when bloggers and citizen journalists are not cut up in their act as you are and are delivering what they, the readers, want. Sigh! editor@blackandwhiteoman.com

Black & White 5

Telltale pictures The pictures of Yanni’s visit to Oman and his performance (which I was not lucky enough to see) were superb. Like they always say, the pictures told the whole story, and perhaps, it told us more about this celebrated musician’s visit than one could describe in words. Thank you Black & White for sharing us the rare moments of the visit by one of the world’s living musical legends! Although I could not see him performance, at least I have the pictures to know what happened.

Usman T. A., Seeb

Law against littering I am with the writer (Murali Iyer, issue 38, inbox). Muscat is a beautiful city, and the officials concerned are maintaining its beauty, but what can anyone do when certain miscreants are bent upon creating havoc and destroying the purity of this city by random abuse? I have fought with so many people who just spit and litter about like as though this city is an over sized garbage bin.

Last week when I tried to stop a man from littering, he threatened to report me to the authorities! I dared him, but he went away. I don’t know if there is a law in Oman against littering and if it is there, I hope it is implemented properly!

Anita Jhangiani, Qurum

Men are NOT fashionable!

I read the article ‘Better get fashionable’ (issue 36) with great interest. I think the article only mildly stated what I feel about men’s clothes. Men are no longer fashionable, I would say. Some of the clothes that men wear these days and the weird combinations are really making me crazy. I feel the youth are totally skewed about what they want to wear and the fact that they have no clue as to what is fashionable is evident in the monstrosities that they wear.

In stark contrast, women are quite fashionable and their choices are really fantastic. They are not confused and that is reflected in their wear.

Somehow, I feel that boys as well as men need to be properly educated about fashion, otherwise we will have to bear these men who go around like as though they are cast of an alien film!

Maggie Craig, Al Khuwair 6 December 7, 2011-December 6, 2012

Fear of fear The fear of fear (issue 32, May 21 – June 20) was a pleasant piece to read.

In a light-hearted story, the truth of life is talked about. I really liked the way the author chose to talk about our fears in life. Fear of future, hurting, losing et al. But I think, it’s this fear that makes us go on in life. Remember how we felt before exams in school and college? It was “fear” that made us score good!

Life is indeed a long run and a spark is needed to succeed. The fear within all of us does not want us to fail in this long run. A mind with fear can help, maybe!

Charu Pant, Khasab

Media renaissance Media renaissance (issue 32) talked a lot of truth about the media and its freedom. It was a thought-evoking article. I totally agree with the fact that stories are treated the other way after being edited. I, being a journalist, have faced that situation quite a few times. Yes, the face of media has changed and we are free to write about the happenings around us, but the pressure on editors and reporters do not let the truth come out sometimes.

I give the writer who wrote a report about how a powerful man was rallying to send an ambassador of his country back home a ‘thumbs up’! Its journalists like these who have brought ‘media renaissance’.’

And I believe that journalists do realise their responsibility towards the society and therefore will not misuse the freedom. However, journalists who are writing for personal favours are always a menace. Knowing someone influential and covering an event due to contacts is acceptable, but a moral downfall – a big NO! Charu Pant, Khasab

Mail your views and opinions at editor@blackandwhiteoman.com Black & White 7

Are men becoming more like women…?

Men read

By Anthony Barret I want to ask all men a loaded question: Is it no longer a man’s world? Let us assume that the gender wars are over. And then, if it is not a man’s world, does it mean that women have won?

Ask yourself the question: Who is dominating the postwar landscape?

Women! That means women have won. The reason for bringing this up is to drive home another point: Men are becoming more and more like women. Their attitudes are beginning to resemble that of women.

And perhaps, women are becoming more like men too, but that is fodder for another debate. What matters here is the question: are men becoming more like women? And, if that is so, how come?

Look at it this way: men have been hounded since early days to become more refined, more civilised and more humane. This has been drilled into their heads so much so that the new generations, although not fully grasping the values behind the requirements, have still managed to become more refined, at least on the surface. It has not come from within, because the refinement has started from outside, going in…slowly…

But in effect, the attitude of men in many a respect has taken a sea change. With men becoming more concerned about their looks, the metro-sexual effect doing the rounds, they are more family oriented, more committed and ready to give their partners the equality they deserve.

So, men don’t dominate any longer and perhaps, women don’t either, but slowly we see with the qualitative change, men are showing definite womanly qualities.

Many of them are staying at home and working; or taking care of their families, dropping office work and getting on to housework, looking after their babies and generally taking a backseat in many areas. Ok, that is fine, we know that men are no longer the macho guys they were before, but, does it mean they are slowly losing it – are men becoming more comfortable with their feminine qualities and thus have become less aggressive, more tolerant and more considerate, but in the bargain have become too soft?

Also, on the career front, men are no longer the chief home providers.

They have either taken the back seat, or are on equal terms with their fairer genders. The men are no longer the primary wage earners too. Men are today going through some of the same paces that women were put through earlier and although they may or may not be equipped to handle it, life has taken them around a full circle, right from the time their ancestors clubbed and dragged their fairer mates to their caves to the time now when the prettier ones are sitting across the table and dominating the proceedings.

Is life mean to the male homo sapiens of the human species? Only time will tell. But, what we, the lesser mortals, can gauge from the current scenario is this: it is a tough world out there. A world that the women have been braving for ages, but now equally being shared by men and the only problem here is that men are only getting used to it; they are suddenly novices swimming in the rough seas of life and naturally, they are finding it tough.

8 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Black & White 9

Why can’t men wear

MAKEUP? Men health

Answer that question folks.

If women can, then, men can also wear makeup…or, can’t they?

Tell us one logical reason why men can’t wear makeup?

10 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

IS THERE SOMETHING WRONG WITH IT? Men and makeup…now, that is an odd combination, many would say. But when you think about it…why can’t men wear a little makeup? Most men’s skin could use a little touching up and care dos…every now and then. If women are expected to hide their flaws with makeup, men should feel like they can do something to look their best, too.

The purpose of makeup is to enhance your natural beauty. Hiding imperfections is a part of that process. Yet, where should a man draw the line?

MARKET IS THERE In fact, there are some companies that feature makeup for men. So, the market is out there. But, why is it still a taboo for men wearing cosmetics? In fact, if there is a kind of general approval of makeup for men, we are going to find a sizeable number openly reaching out for the products available in the market. And most of them, who are currently doing it on the sly, will emerge out of the woodwork.

COVERING UP GAME There will be plenty of them to follow the cosmetics regime, some believe.

What is important is that none of us, men or women, are getting younger. While women are hiding their blemishes and/or enhancing their beauty with adequate makeup, it is natural that men also follow suit in this covering up game. By putting on makeup, men are not going to lose anything or they do not have to feel any less masculine.

“Many men wear jewellery – that was once considered to be the sole realm of women.

But, if you look back into the earlier ages, especially in countries like India, the men always sported jewelleries. What is wrong in that?

MEN CAN’T ENJOY “Society always seem to make unnecessary standards and rules and dress codes for men and women and it is a shame that men are unable to enjoy the fun of putting on makeup,” notes Stan Lyncy, a well known male hair stylist.

20 PERCENT THICKER Men have 20 percent thicker skin than women, which means that men actually need specially formulated moisturisers and cleansers to maintain healthy skin, a noted skin specialist says. Men have larger pores that can accumulate more dirt and grime during an average day; thus, a face cleanser designed for women is simply not strong enough to thoroughly cleanse men’s skin.

MEN’S COSMETICS What are men’s cosmetics? Well, basically skin care, shaving, hair care, and general grooming products. We do not, of course, mean lipstick and eyeliner, but beauty products specifically designed for men. “Everything, in a sense, to keep you clean, healthy and looking your best around the clock. Once upon a time, men subtly bought these items at the women’s makeup counter in the local department store or pharmacy and looked for unscented versions of the products made for women.

Manufacturers now offer specifically designed men’s cosmetics -- marketed to them -- but offering transformative results,” a report notes.

As noted earlier, the skin of man is often “much tougher and thicker than a woman’s due to his testosterone and pH level. As a result, he needs stronger lotions and cleansers to reach deeper into his pores.

“It is true that hair skin tonics, as they were called, have always been made with ‘manly’ men in mind, but most of these had harsh ingredients.

Your Heart is Safe in Apollo’s Hand

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

PROMISES to make and keep…

Remember December 31 last year? And the year before that and the year before…?

Remember all the promises that you have made…? Remember all the resolutions…?

We still have some more time to go for the D day, this time, so let us quickly look at some of the resolutions that men must make, not just this coming New Year, but permanently!

In one way, it is not easy to make healthy habits a permanent part of our lives because there are distractions galore. Also, your peers are not exactly the best type of people to have when you are hoping to stick to a healthy diet and exercise regime.

But, in reality, it is possible to make your diet and exercise regime come true. Yes, resolutions are easier to break than to make and stick, but, then, if you decide to stick to a manageable health resolution, you will soon realise that it is all the better for you.

Men health

So, decide to live long and healthily and for that, do try out these simple resolutions:

12 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

QUIT SMOKING (AND OTHER VICES) Making this resolution (just like any other) is easy; following it is another story. Okay, you have tried to quit before and failed, but don’t let it get you down. The key to achieve this goal is not to eliminate all at once but

to gradually reduce the consumption.

Experts believe that you are more likely to achieve it if you are in a team with a concrete plan.

Benefits: The relationship between smoking/drinking and a whole range of diseases is well known. A major change will ensue after you take this step.

EXERCISE REGULARLY Most important resolution ever. Adopt this and the rest of the problems would fade away. Don’t let the term ‘regularly’ daunt you -- try at least three times a week for about 30 minutes. Get exercise during your regular daily activities by walking at lunch, taking the stairs instead of the elevator and walking short distances instead of using your car.

Benefits: One study reports that walking 30 minutes a day adds 1.3 years to a person’s life. Another study found that walking can

decrease hypertension, lower bad cholesterol levels and help you lose weight. Regular exercise has been associated with more health benefits than anything else known to man. It keeps the muscles in good working order, stimulates the flow of blood and makes you feel better both physically and mentally.

EAT HEALTHY To stay fit one must follow a good exercise regimen coupled with good diet. Fiber from fruits and vegetables, raw nuts and whole grains is considered to be good while excess salt, refined grains, refined sugar and fatty foods is said to be bad.

Benefits: What you eat has a great influence on the way your body works. A balanced diet is vital to good health.

REDUCE STRESS Easier said than done. Stress is everywhere, whatever you do or don’t do; whatever you think or don’t think, stress is around.

Chronic stress can lead to hypertension, poor digestion, a weakened immune system and many other conditions. Thus everyone needs to de-stress. Spend some more time with your family and friends or on your hobbies. Take

a break if the stress is too hard to handle. Other methods of coping include proper breathing and meditation techniques.

Benefits: Stress contributes to many severe health problems, so it is important to deal with stress earlier, rather than later.

GET GOOD SLEEP Sleep and rest are essential to wellness. Sleep deprivation has been linked to stress, depression, immunesystem suppression, and obesity.

If you are getting only six hours a night, you have a higher chance of developing hypertension than those who get seven. The prescribed amount of sleep required is seven hours. However, it varies with each person.

Benefits: It can boost your energy, immune system and helps your blood circulation to allow your body to mend after the day’s activities.

DRINK AMPLE WATER Water is the elixir of life. Drink approximately eight glasses of water per day (not carbonated drinks).

Benefits: But instead of getting philosophical, let us also point out here that it also helps in losing weight. It regulates your body temperature, lubricates your joints, boosts your energy, eliminates waste and provides fluoride for your teeth.

Black & White 13

O

I am a Malayaleee

all ew h t ff

Off the wall

By Adarsh Madhavan Yesss...I yam. I yam not hamble or semble! Haark thoo!

I yam a Mala yaleee…

But, I don’t wear a pink lungiii (dhoti)!

I like kappa (mashed tapioca) meen (fish) curry but like some biggies think, I don’t stink of curry, nor do I burppp after meals. But, I am a Malayaleee…

I don’t like to be browbeaten, run over or looked down upon, but that doesn’t mean I am left or right! There are those who love to be in politics, but that is not a crime! Each to his yown!

But, when you are not political, you get kicked from both sides (ach ouch)! All Malayalis are my brothers and sisters!

Cheta (brother), it pains when you make fun of my Malayalam and beta (child) it hurts when you make fun of my Manglish. I am between the Devil and The deep sea.

There are those who feel you can never be a Malayali if you cannot speak chaste and pure Malayalam and there are those who think all Malayalis speak Manglish.

Am I morally wrong because my Malayalam is not upto great standards? I can be the Devil myself, but if I speak pure Malayalam, will I be forgiven for my sins? Should I be looked down upon because of that and on the same coin, should I be laughed at because my English has a Malayalam accent? You understand what I speak no? And why is it that you don’t laf-laf at the English spoken by my French and German friends?!

I am not ashamed of my roots (I am a Malayaleee…). In fact, when one is away from Kerala, the heart beats harder and the distance makes it grow fonder.

I am not one who would hide under an assumed identity because I am in the Gulf. I am proud of my ethnic identity and I love the language, which I have been speaking since my birth, even though I am not good at it.

But, somehow, I stick out like a sore thumb…

Again, we are accused of groupism (You Malayalee? I Malayalee! We all Malayalees!), but is that wrong?

Everywhere in the world, birds of the same feather flock together…it is just that, like in Oman, we are one too many, so we are noticed.

And yes, laughed at too. Sometimes it rankles, but we are getting used to it. And it helps a lot when we laugh along with them.

Sometimes, these digs are rib tickling (What does a Malayali do when he has to stand for election in Delhi? He changes his name from Madhavan to M. A. Dhawan. How does a Malayali spell Malayalam?

Yamm – Yay – Yell – Yay – Why – Yay – Yell – Yay – Yum!). But, it hurts when the digs dig deep (You speak like a Malayali – but I am a Malayaleee; You look like a Malayali – but, cheta, I am a Malayaleee; you behave like a Malayali – Yes, I yam a Malayaleee…).

What can I do? I am born this way. I look this way. I speak this way, I am a Malayalee! And imagine if we all got

together (ha, ha, don’t worry, that will never happen) and started laughing at you and your language(s)!

Malayalis or non resident Keralites tend to get hurt both within and outside.

There are rabid Malayali moralists and purists who insist on speaking the pure language and at the other end there are the highfunda nonMalayalis (Indians) who despite being a Bong, Gujju, Panju, Maru, Madrasi etc and having their own language foibles have a kind of superiority complex when it comes the Queen’s language as though they speak it better than us.

The father (not mine yaaki; Fr Cherian) of the school that I studied in used to correct our pronunciation (‘spunj’ (sponge) not ‘spawnj’).

But, when we speak Malayalam at home and then English in school and then finally more Malayalam than English in college and then even more at work, spunj can go back spaawnj. It happens.

Like I couldn’t find a proper job in my hometown, so I came to the Gelf, and yes, I miss my family, but unlike others I no make manney, and so I struggle, struggle and one day I make manney big manney. Maybe.

But manney or no manney, I still Malayaleee. You yanderrrstand? adarsh@blackandwhiteoman.com

14 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

B&W to contribute

OMR34,176.400 to charity

Black & White magazine will be contributing OMR34,176.400 to charity. This amount has been raised by the magazine after it organised the Yanni Live in Concert event, which was held at the Grand Hall of the Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) in October.

The B&W will contribute OMR3150 to Omar bin Khattab School by buying 10 Perkins Braillers for the students and OMR6150 to the ministry of health (MoH) by purchasing two equipments for eye testing at Al Nahda Hospital and Salalah Hospital.

These machines are for eye testing and cost OMR3075 per machine, one for Al Nahda Hospital and the other for Salalah Hospital.

The B&W will provide OMR14876.400 towards treatment of economically challenged children (200 in numbers) by providing Riboflavin drops and will also be giving free medical treatment -- to the tune of OMR10,000 -- to the visually challenged with the help of one of the event sponsors, Muscat Eye Laser. “The eye testing equipments and the riboflavin drops are being ordered through a supplier – Amico,” Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali, editor in chief of the B&W, said.

The event sponsors were Audi, OIFC, Muscat Eye Laser Centre, Al Wisal (96.5 FM), Merge 104.8 and Shangri La’s Barr Al Jissah Resort & Spa. The venue sponsors were National Mineral Water Co (Tanuf), Renna, Copper Chimney restaurant, Spicy Village, Dunkin Donuts, Patchi, Café Vergnano, Bateel and Omantel.

Black & White 15

BankDhofar convenes Crisis Management

Team (CMT) Meeting

The Crisis Management Team (CMT) of BankDhofar met to review the weather situation and Meteorology Department forecast. The meeting reviewed effectiveness of the banks’ Business Continuity (BCP) and Disaster Recovery (DRP) Plans to prepare for any unforeseen and disruptive events. The team also reviewed the arrangements made to provide uninterrupted services to the customers and the communication strategies, contingency plans, emergency procedures to be followed in case of any eventuality.

Abdul Hakeem Al Ojaili, general manager (corporate services) and head of the CMT assured that the bank is well equipped to respond to any disaster scenario that may affect the business.

Though few branches of the bank in Southern and Northern Al Sharqiyah regions were affected for a day due to flooding, the problems have been resolved and the few affected off site ATMs have also been restored to normal conditions, facilitating the customers to carry out normal operations.

The CMT in coordination with regional managers of the bank, across the country, will ensure availability of uninterrupted services to its customers during the ensuing holidays also.

Al Araimi Complex prize winners are gifted keys

Wordpress

The three-month long shopping extravaganza at Al Araimi Complex successfully concluded with keys to a Dodge Challenger and Polaris Sports man 300 being handed over recently.

The annual festival at the complex attracts many customers in the hope of being a winner of the many prizes that are given away as well as to avail the discounts and enjoy the diverse activities that are organised during this period.

This year as well there was a draw held each month of the promotion to keep the excitement alive. The grand draw of a Dodge Challenger and monthly draws of Polaris dune buggies were up for grabs, courtesy Dhofar Automotive and Fairtrade Auto.

In the first draw, Sulaiman Ahmed Nasser Al-Wahaibi won the Outlaw 90 and the second draw saw Ahmed Salim Ali Bayaqub Mashikhi ride away with the RZR 170.

In the third ‘Grand Draw’ held just before Eid, Nasser Mohammed Hamdoon Al Malki won the Sports man 300

16 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

and an excited Khalid Najbakht Sharshambeh Al Balishi was declared the winner of the all-new Dodge Challenger.

In addition, many other customers walked away with iPads, iPods, Bose dock systems, Bose computer speakers, JVC LCD TVs, Osim foot massagers, Samsung GSMs and Al Araimi shopping vouchers. The gifts were handed over by Uttam Kotian – manager advertising and marketing and Hilal Al Hosni, management manager of Al Araimi Complex.

“The annual promotion is keenly awaited by all our customers who are by now aware that it will provide them with a double bonanza of shopping at their favourite outlets and getting a chance to enter their names in draws.

The dune buggies are particularly a favourite in Oman as is the Dodge Challenger; so the draws this year were eagerly awaited. The last draw was like an Eid gift to the winners and they were ecstatic over their lucky win,” said Uttam Kotian.

Damas Farfasha campaign featuring Nancy Ajram Damas has rolled out the latest marketing campaign to promote its new Farfasha collections with Lebanese superstar Nancy Ajram re-signed on as brand ambassador.

Ajram was first signed as brand ambassador when Farfasha was launched in 2005/2006 to target the youthful, vibrant and fun-loving young ladies in the Middle East region.

Farfasha soon became the most popular gold accessory for the young consumers creating the so-called Generation Gold. In the 60-second TV commercial (TVC), Ajram, with her ‘Meen Ma Ando’ as background music, is portrayed as having fun with three other ladies during a night out in downtown Beirut. The concept of the song is set around the Farfasha brand – full of energy and fun, lightens up everyone and wakes up people, and brings to life the art, cinema and music scene. The TVC was shot over three nights in several areas of Beirut, including Jemayzeh and Hamra.

Dhyan Chand Day celebrations

GEC launches IMTEX

The ISC Bhojpuri wing in association with the Indian embassy organised a hockey tournament to mark the Dhyan Chand Day celebrations.

The Bhojpuri wing has been organising this event for the last four years and have honoured many hockey stars like Ashok Kumar, the son of the late hockey wizard Dhyan Chand, Dhanraj Pillay, Mir Ranjan Negi etc. Mohammed Irshad Ahmed, convener of the Bhojpuri wing has been credited with organising a number of cricket tournaments in Oman.

The living legend of yesteryear, Leslie Claudius, considered one of the greats of the game was the special guest of honour, and distributed the prizes to the winners and runners-up. Having won three gold and one silver Olympic medal during his playing days, Leslie Claudius has been inspirational to a lot of young players. He has been recognised by the government of India by being bestowed the Padmashree award for his outstanding contribution to the national sport of India.

An international exhibition called the Industrial Machinery, Tools, Hardware and Equipment Expo (IMTEX Oman 2012) will be held at the Oman International Exhibition Centre from April 10 to 12, 2012.

The three-day trade exhibition, the only event in Oman that directly caters to the needs of both manufacturers and industries, will prominently showcase a full range of products and equipments from local and international companies.

Organised by the country’s reputed event management firm Global Exhibitions & Conferences (GEC) LLC, IMTEX Oman 2012 is being conducted under the patronage of the ministry of commerce and industry.

The event also has the official support of the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (PEIE), which manages seven industrial estates in different parts of the country as well as the Industrial Innovation Centre (IIC).

“IMTEX Oman 2012 is primarily intended to cater to the rapidly growing demand for all types of industrial machinery and equipments. The exhibition will bring together the biggest gathering of decision makers from a wide range of sectors and industry professionals, thus making the event valuable in helping equipment manufacturers to target their potential clients,” said C. J. Paul, chief executive officer of GEC. Contact 24783800/95250277, gec@globalexhibitionsoman.com Black & White 17

Muscat Eye Laser Center gets Avedro system Muscat Eye Laser Center has announced the addition of the breakthrough Avedro System to its everexpanding technological capabilities in the treatment of corneal problems. The Avedro System, coveted by the world’s leading eye-care clinics, is currently the equipment of choice in the treatment of keratoconus, a degenerative disorder of the cornea, in which there is a progressive change of its curvature, leading to an abnormal conical shape. The Avedro KXL System offers a superfast, safe and non-invasive alternative to stop the progression of keratoconus and, in many cases, to avoid the need of penetrating keratoplasty (cornea transplant).

“The system is designed to perform accelerated corneal cross-linking procedure (KXL) that represents a qualitative leap over the traditional corneal collagen cross-linking procedure. While the latter procedure usually takes an hour and is fraught with post-surgical

challenges, the advanced KXL process is over in a few minutes and with amazing results. Additionally the light beam is more homogeneous producing a more precise treatment that implies a safer result,” explained Dr Maria Clara Arbelaez, medical director.

Hatat Polyclinic CME

Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase the global premiere of the Mazda TAKERI next-generation midsize sedan concept car at the 42nd Tokyo Motor Show. Mazda will also hold the Japan debut of the new CX-5 crossover SUV equipped with the full array of Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY as well as other new technologies and production models.

The 2011 Tokyo Motor Show will run from December 3 through 11, 2011, at the Tokyo International Exhibition Center. Mazda’s theme for the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show is - “Environmental technology, pushing the boundaries of the emotion of motion.” Mazda has previously announced its plan to thoroughly enhance environmental and dynamic performance under the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom long-term vision for technology development.

After formalising a strategic alliance with Fortis Healthcare, India, Hatat Polyclinic LLC, An Assarain Group Company, organised Continuing Medical Education (CME) programme in August. The speaker for the event was Dr Harshavardhan Hegde – director and senior consultant and head of department of orthopaedics, Fortis Healthcare, India. His lecture on 'Pushing For Excellence In Orthopaedics – Challenges and Solutions' was well received by the participants.

Another CME programme on 'Management Of Acute Ischemic Stroke' was organised. The speaker was Dr Sanjay Saxena, senior consultant and head of department – neurology, Fortis Healthcare, India. Both the senior consultants, Dr Saxena and Dr Hegde will be available at Hatat Polyclinic for consultation on regular intervals commencing from October onwards.

Patients can benefit from their visits and consult them in the comfort of their own city rather than travel to a foreign land, to sum up this arrangement economical and saves time.

Wordpress

Mazda TAKERI at 2011 Tokyo Motor Show

18 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Second annual Mindshare Media Summit 2011 Mindshare MENA recently hosted their second annual Mindshare Media Summit 2011 in Dubai in the presence of prominent speakers such as Marco Rimini, head of business planning for Mindshare Worldwide; Sarah Kay, poet and co-director of project V.O.I.C.E; Fredrik Bernsel, sales director of LinkedIn EMEA Partners; Volker Hirsch, director of business development for RIM (Blackberry); Juan Senor, partner, INNOVATION Media Consulting; Steve Smith, Coo of the Arabian Radio Network; Mazen Hayek, group director of PR & Commercial/official spokesman for the MBC Group; and Roy Haddad, chairman and Ceo, JWT MENA. The summit aimed to tackle some of the biggest questions facing the region, from understanding the new art of story-telling in a digital age, to how the rise of multiple screens will impact client communications. The presentations included great examples of media innovation from across the world and explaining what these new techniques and trends mean for our region.

New Heart Centre at MPH

Heart problems are common place in today’s modern world. Thankfully there is now an opportunity to diagnose heart disease early and have treatment before the heart muscle is damaged beyond repair. Regular heart checks should be done if you have a family history of heart

disease, if you are overweight, smoke heavily, or have high blood pressure or if you are aged over 45 years. This can easily be done at MPH by making an appointment for the heart centre clinic.

"If vessels are blocked or partially blocked angioplasty can be planned whereby special devices are inserted into the blood vessels of the heart to relieve the blockage. If several vessels are affected then heart bypass surgery can be offered, as in the case of Mr Graham. The heart centre has everything needed under one roof to diagnose and treat disease of the heart’s blood vessels. Graham is General Manager Group Logistics for Mustafa Sultan Enterprises and he wanted to acknowledge the fantastic support his company has given him during this time," a press note said.

HSBC financing for Nokia Siemens networks contract HSBC has signed a $24 million medium term facility to finance telecommunications equipment and systems supplied by Nokia Siemens Networks - one of the world’s leading telecommunications equipment suppliers - to Asiacell, a leading mobile operator in Iraq.

The equipment and services supported by this financing will allow Asiacell to continue to upgrade the quality of services it provides to customers across Iraq as well as to accommodate ongoing growth in subscriber numbers to the Asiacell network.

Nokia Siemens Networks entered into a framework contract with Asiacell in 2008 and has since been one of the leading suppliers of telecommunications equipment and systems to Asiacell. Nokia Siemens Networks solutions, financed

through the credit facility, will be used to expand and upgrade Asiacell’s network in several different areas of Iraq.

Black & White 19

Nawras SMS & WIN promotion winners Amidst great excitement, Nawras is announcing the first of 90 daily winners of OMR1000 in the current SMS & WIN promotion. Oman’s customer friendly communications provider held a draw on October 24 to select 14 lucky Nawras customers who are the first prize winners of OMR1000 each.

Nawras customer champions are now calling all the winners from customer care number 22001555. Winning customers will be invited to visit the Nawras main office or their local Nawras store to verify their details and find out how to collect their prize.

Nawras will not be asking for any personal information to be given over the phone. The mobile numbers of the first Nawras prize winners are being announced through the

Oman Evo Team visit Jebel Sifah

promotion website at www.nawras2win.com. Following each subsequent draw for the remaining OMR76,000 and the three Toyota Prados, additional winners’ names will be posted on the website.

‘Oman Evo’, a self-styled group of Mitsubishi Lancer Sports Car owners, visited Jebel Sifah recently, for an up close and personal look at the services and facilities within the sprawling Muriya development.

The 34-member team of Mitsubishi Evolution enthusiasts drove their cars from Muscat to the scenic Jebel Sifah.

The 45 km drive from the city took them through the peaceful fishing village, with mountains and the sea adding to the visual delight, to reach their destination the breathtaking Jebel Sifah, which is fringed by sandy white beaches and turquoise waters of the Gulf of Oman, against a backdrop of the majestic Hajjar mountain range.

Wordpress

New OTE exclusive tyre showroom inaugurated in Salalah A new state of the art OTE exclusive tyre showroom of United Contract Trading & Cont. Co. LLC was inaugurated in Salalah recently. It has the latest machinery and is the one and only of its kind in Salalah.

It was inaugurated in the presence of Anil Wadhwa, former Indian ambassador, Sheikh Akram Hassan Abdullah Al Murazza, director general, ministry of commerce and industries, Sheikh Abdul Salam Mohammed Al Rawas, wali of Sadah and Sheikh Mohd Salim Al Mashni, director workshop, Royal Court Affairs. On the occasion many dignitaries Sheikh Naif Abdullah Salim Al Rawas, Sheikh Abdullah 20 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Abdul Aziz Al Rawas, Sheikh Khalid Abdullah Abdul Aziz Al Rawas and Sheikh Abdul Aziz Abdullah Al Rawas were present besides others.

Also present were Sheikh Salim Abdullah Al Rawas, chairman United

Contract Trading & Contracting Co. LLC, A.B. Singh, senior general manager, TBA Division, OTE Group of Companies, Ravi Kumar Setty, senior manager besides Manpreet Singh, sales manager.

Omani launch of the Middle East edition of the Audi magazine Audi Oman, the exclusive distributor for Audi in Oman, hosted an event to launch the Middle East edition of the Audi magazine, which will be published biannually and is a tailored version of the successful international edition, which has enjoyed a print run of over 15 years and is available in 25 languages in 70 countries.

The magazine will be printed in Arabic and English combined in one publication.

The magazine will be mailed to customers throughout Oman who have recently joined the world of Audi. It will also be available in the Audi showroom as well as selected 5-star hotels and retail outlets in the Sultanate.

Audi is the fastest growing premium brand in the Middle East, so we feel it is the perfect time to create a magazine to keep current and prospective customers up to date with the latest Audi news throughout the region and internationally,” said Jeff Mannering, managing director Audi Middle East.

“The magazine is part of our ongoing

global strategy to delight customers and will serve to communicate new model launches, technologies and news, and reinforce our brand claim “Vorsprung durch Technik (Advancement through Technology).”

Hosting the media launch of the Audi magazine, Abdel Kareem Awwad, national marketing and sales manager at Audi Oman, said: “We are delighted to be introducing the new magazine to our customers in

Oman – ensuring they receive the very latest information about the Sultanate’s premium automotive brand. I am sure that our techsavvy and sophisticated customer base here in Oman will appreciate the opportunity to receive the new magazine in a range of hard copy and interactive formats.”

Contact: 245 84510

Spicy Village New Year extravaganza “Whatever the occasion, we add flavour and fun to it,” is the credo at Spicy Village. After a rollicking Star Chef Season 2, the restaurant is now gearing up for the final event of the year: the Spicy Village New Year extravaganza.

“This will be the jewel in our crown of events,” said Dayaparan, general manager, Spicy Village. Since this year is the 25th anniversary of the Spicy Village chain of restaurants in Oman, he promises it will be a mega event.

This year, a spectacular buffet with Indian, Chinese, continental and Arabic Cuisine will be laid out. “In flavour and variety, we will be second to none,” assures Dayaparan. What’s more, live food stations will be set up.

This will include a finger-licking BBQ, a live dosa counter and pav bhaji station.

A lively entertainment programme is also planned. The highlight will be a live performance by the popular Omani singer, Nadeem Al Balushi, and his team, who will soon be launching his own album in Hindi and Arabic. He has

just finished recording in India under a big banner. The audience can expect some unique new numbers from his upcoming album.

DJ Saleem will keep the tempo racing. Unlimited games and contests with gifts galore are in the offing, with prizes for best dressed couples, best dancing couples and many other fun-filled games. A warm bonfire and tambola will add to the excitement, as will the ever-popular magic show. Customers can also look forward to a grand raffle draw with splendid prizes.

“Tickets for our New Year bash go like hot cakes, and are usually sold out by December 27th. In order to avoid last moment disappointment, we request you to make your bookings now,” advises Dayaparan. For bulk bookings, a special 10 percent discount will be provided. Tickets are priced at RO10 only, inclusive of dinner, dancing and entertainment.

Contact: 99224718 Black & White 21

Renna mobile benefits awareness campaign

renna mobile launched its benefits awareness campaign recently. With a highly qualified customer service team, fast broadband services, various recharge services, and many more, this campaign aims to highlight renna

mobiles benefits and as promised to ensure that its services, promotions and values are transparent and clear to all its users.

“There are many benefits in joining renna mobile. Our credit control features, various broadband bundles tailored to suit our customers’ different needs, easy and transparent price plans, are just some of the many benefits that renna mobile customers can enjoy on a daily basis,” said Joakim Klingefjord, chief executive officer, renna mobile.

Our team is continuously working on improving customer offers and packages that reflect customer lifestyle and business needs. The way we see it, renna mobile was created to make the customers life easier, focusing entirely on managing their various needs,” added Klingefjord. Renna mobile has recently enhanced its broadband bundles where customers can now enjoy more value with high speed internet access through their phones and their laptops with the best prices in Oman.

Contact 80073662 or call 1240.

BankMuscat-SQU

Wordpress

collaborative partnership celebrated BankMuscat, the leading financial services provider in the Sultanate, hosted a ceremony to celebrate the long-standing partnership with Sultan Qaboos University (SQU). Dr Ali Al Bemani, vice-chancellor of SQU, was the guest of honour at the event attended by AbdulRazak Ali Issa, chief executive, at the head office of BankMuscat.

The SQU-BankMuscat partnership is reflected at various levels.

BankMuscat is the first and only bank to offer banking services on SQU campus. The bank is focussed on offering all banking and financial 22 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

services to the SQU student and teacher community. Dr Al Bemani said: “We are thankful to BankMuscat for its valuable contributions benefiting the SQU society and we look forward to stronger future partnership.” AbdulRazak Ali Issa said: “As the nation’s leading banking partner, BankMuscat attaches great importance to national initiatives, especially higher education aimed at sustaining the country’s progress and development. The association with SQU stems from BankMuscat’s commitment to the country’s future generations.”

AbdulRazak added: “BankMuscat enjoys strong relations with SQU and is proud to celebrate the success of the collaborative partnership with the premier university of Oman. The Bank is keen to further strengthen the bonds with SQU, aimed at contributing to Oman’s future by investing in talent which is the real wealth of our nation.”

Every year, BankMuscat welcomes SQU graduates to take up various positions in the Bank. The recruitment of SQU graduates reflects the bank’s determination to develop its young leadership.

Ernst & Young

Entrepreneur Of The Year

Ernst & Young announced the launch of the Entrepreneur of the Year 2012 awards in Oman. The programme celebrates individuals who build and lead successful, growing and dynamic businesses. The event has been running globally for 23 years and is held in 135 cities across 50 countries worldwide. Rajeev Singh, partner and Entrepreneur of the Year Leader at Ernst & Young, Muscat said, “I’m delighted that this year the Entrepreneur of the Year programme will be running as a country programme in Oman for the first time. Globally, every year the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award gives entrepreneurs the recognition they deserve. Even in the most challenging times, these business pioneers are looking for opportunity and continue to proactively take calculated risks to grow. This is a trait that we celebrate

and a value that we espouse. The programme also demonstrates Ernst & Young’s commitment to fostering the spirit of entrepreneurship, which in fact drives the engines of economic growth, especially in these unusual times.”

To be eligible for consideration to enter the programme, nominees must be and have been for at least three years, the owner/executive director of a business (not subsidiary or division); be primarily responsible for the success of the business; must have a significant equity shareholding in the business; and must have its chief operations based in Oman.

Awards are given to entrepreneurs who have demonstrated excellence and extraordinary success in areas such as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities.

In this inaugural event in Oman expected awards to be presented are: The Entrepreneur Of The Year, Oman, the recipient of which will go on to represent the country at the World Entrepreneur Of The Year event in Monte Carlo in June.

Emerging Entrepreneur Of The Year (for those companies that have been operating for two years and are able to demonstrate that their business is starting to make a real impact).

Other ‘special’ awards may be deliberated and awarded by the independent panel of judges. In this first event we expect to present an ‘Eminent Entrepreneur’ accolade.

Self-nominations are encouraged and there is no fee to enter. Application forms can be collected from your local Ernst & Young office in Muscat.

Contact: 24559559 extention 9506

Park Inn is now Park Inn by Radisson Park Inn has been christened ‘Park Inn by Radisson’. This was announced at a high profile event held at the rooftop Lounge, Sama Terrazza that was attended by partners, key corporate clients and the local media. “It is a progressive step designed to preserve all of Park Inn’s existing brilliant brand strengths and concepts while adding an instantly recognisable connection to our successful and upscale Radisson Blu brand. It offers a great opportunity to create brand awareness for both hotels,” said Rabih Zein, general manager, Park Inn by Radisson.

The change will be implemented on a gradual basis

avoiding unnecessary waste of signage and collateral and ensuring any disruption will minimal. There will be very little will change in terms of daily operations.

Black & White 23

Social worker gets 2011 Al Shifa’ award

Spotlight

They also serve those who stand and wait. For nearly 30 (precisely 29) years, P. M. Jabir, has been tirelessly serving and assisting poor and downtrodden blue-collar expatriate Indian workers in Oman. Although his work has been publicly recognised and he is quite a popular figure among the Indian circle here, no one has officially recognised his efforts.

24 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

While Jabir, like most dedicated social workers, was not rendering his efforts in order to get an award or any official recognition, his close friends and well wishers were hoping their beloved ‘social worker’ friend get some official recognition for the service he has rendered to the community.

Considered to be the ‘big brother’ of the distressed among the Indian Diaspora, Jabir has been actively involved in alleviating their suffering.

Since 1982, Jabir has been involved in helping the troubled, suffering, ill and penniless among the Indian community without seeking anything in return. While it may have begun as a one-man army, today, he has an ad-hoc team in place that can run the show, even if the leader is away for a period. So entrenched is the helping mentality among these volunteers that their helping hands have brought relief, help and even happiness among many blue-collar workers, some of them who were at their wits end and ready to give up.

A SYNONYM FOR HELP As noted by those who have benefitted from his assistance, Jabir’s is a name synonymous with help. Be it unpaid wages, financial help for medical assistance or if it is even to send the human remains back home, Jabir, who is the founder member of the Kerala wing of the Indian Social Club (ISC) and social welfare secretary of the ISC, was always just a phone call away.

The beauty of it was that he or his mates were available around the clock. Jabir must have handled over 3000 death cases and thanks to the popular Malayalam TV programme, Pravasilokam (a programme on Indian satellite television channel, Kairali, which helps find missing Indians outside India), he and his dedicated team have been

instrumental in finding more than 70 missing Indians in Oman and helped to repatriate them to their waiting family members back home.

“This has been done in the last decade or so,” Jabir, who is also the Pravasilokam programme coordinator in Oman and a member of the Non Resident Keralites’ Welfare Board, a statutory board constituted by the Kerala government to take care of the welfare of the NRKs, says adding that the figure so far was the largest find for Pravasilokam in any country.

FRIEND OF THE FRIENDLESS For these and other social service efforts, Jabir, who has been also called the ‘friend of the friendless’, has been awarded by the Bahrainbased Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Group’s prestigious ‘2011 Al Shifa’ award. The award was presented by Mohammed Ali Karuvanthodi, group general manager, Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Group, to Jabir at a simple but elegant ceremony held at the Crystal Suites, recently.

Jabir, who has been also called the ‘friend of the friendless’, has been awarded by the Bahrainbased Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Group’s prestigious ‘2011 Al Shifa’ award

“Jabir has contributed phenomenally to the Indian community in Oman and we feel we have chosen the right person for the award,” noted K. T. Rabiullah, chairman of Shifa Al Jazeera Medical Group and a well known philanthropist. The group has presence in Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

While Jabir collected the award in his usual nonchalant manner, he was quick to point out that all his efforts were thanks to his family, who were there through thick and thin.

“Special mention should be made of my wife, Shahanaz. My social work and activism took a toll on my family life and I must confess that I spend very little time with them – but, she takes care of my home, my children – he has two daughters – and she also actively dons the role of a thoroughbred social worker.”

Black & White 25

Say “Yes” cleverly!

By Nasser Al Azry

“YES” TO THE PERSON, “NO” TO THE TASK The word “negotiation” brings up images of highpressure situations, where people have a lot to lose if they get things wrong.

But how well do you negotiate? Do you know how to recognise situations where negotiating is appropriate?

And do you understand the elements of an effective negotiation?

Motivation basics

NEGOTIATING BASICS Negotiation is simply the act of reaching an agreement as to how you will move forward. It›s the process of communicating back and forth, and finally having all parties agree to a solution.

In the book 'Getting to Yes', based on the work of the Harvard Negotiation Project, authors Roger Fisher and William Ury outline four parameters for principled negotiation: • Separate the people from the problem • Focus on interests, not positions • Generate a variety of possibilities before making a decision • Define objective standards as the criteria for making the decision.

ASSERTIVENESS AND NEGOTIATION Does the new committee offer career development opportunities that fit with your long-term objectives?

If yes, perhaps you can give up another assignment in exchange, or maybe you can negotiate hiring an assistant so that you can reduce your workload.

This might even be the time to renegotiate your job description and redefine your roles and responsibilities within the organisation!

Whatever the situation, if you view negotiation as a collaboration, you say "yes" to the other person by respecting his or her needs - at the same time that you give yourself the opportunity to say "no" to the task itself.

Here are some key questions to ask before saying "no" to a task: • Do I have time to do it?

• Am I the right person for the task?

26 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

• Is someone else best suited to the job?

• Does this request fit with my goals and objectives?

If your answer to any of these questions is "no", then you may be best off saying "no" To say "yes" to the person, first answer three main questions: What does this person really need?

• Find areas of flexibility.

• Determine priorities.

How else can this person's need be met?

• Find a different frame of reference or approach to the problem.

• Look for time and resource alternatives.

How can I support this person to have the need met?

• Define the larger goal.

• Look for common interests and needs.

EXAMPLES "I'm sorry, I can't do that analysis this week.

Can I do it for you next Tuesday after month end is complete?"

"I'm sorry, I can't take on doing this analysis on a regular basis because Alex wants me to prioritise development work. But I know Jane is working on developing her excel skills. Would you like me to show her how to extract the data so she can take this on?"

"I could do that analysis, but I wondered what information you actually want from it. If it's the conversion rate from the advertising campaign, would one of the measures in the report that Marketing send round give you what you need?"

When you collaborate, you consider everyone›s needs.

Therefore, even if you have to say "no" to something, you're still concerned about finding a way to get the other person›s needs met, and this allows you to say "yes" to the person. Integration and collaboration are keys to this process. So, the next time you have to negotiate, look for a way to meet everyone›s needs, rather than leave one side with little or nothing.

In Black & White

In Black...

Like fishing and sailing, pearl diving was also very famous then and fishermen probably found an occasional pearl when they plumbed the depths Mohamed Issa Al Zadjali Editor-in-chief WHERE DID THE PEARLS GO? The Arabian region is very famous for the tales of the high seas and its adventurous sailors.

With the abundant coastal stretch that the region is endowed with, it is only obvious that these adventures are imbibed as its very own culture and tradition. Oman has its own share of sailors and fishermen and their life experiences cannot be captured in just a few pages. In fact, Oman is the fabled land of the great sailor, Sindbad, it is said Many fishing villages dot the coastal stretch of Oman giving an insight into the past where fishing and sailing were the main bread earners for many families. In fact, the days before the renaissance era, some Omanis lived off the bounties of the seas before them. Although today it is a far cry from those days, there are still fishing villages and fishermen for whom the sea is everything.

Like fishing and sailing, pearl diving was also very famous then and fishermen probably found an occasional pearl when they plumbed the depths. But, to gather enough oysters to make a living required great effort. It required diving to depths of around 40 metres without equipment, in order to access the offshore oyster beds. How did they do it then? Where did they learn the tricks; who taught them?

Again the question arises as to why in the advent of progress, the pearling industry did not flourish as it should? Where did the pearls disappear? Was it because of the discovery of oil that made us push it all away? Many questions linger in my mind, but as I grope in the dark for an answer, my mind still goes back in time to the days when Oman was very famous for its pearls and well, its fishes and seas...

The B&W team met one such sailor, who still carries with him quite a lot of life experiences -- from his sailing life to his close encounters with sea storms and his pleasant and successful moments of oyster fishing.

When you hear tales from such people of a different era, it makes you learn about the past, the lifestyles off a bygone era and sometimes make you wish that you could revisit those days and years.

Life used to be an everyday adventure for many, not as a hobby, but as a livelihood with little or no choices.

They lived a life cut out for survival and basic amenities and did not think twice about the dangers of the choices they made. It clearly reflects on the hardy nature of these people!

& White Black & White 27

B&W Xclusive 28 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Adventures of Mabrook, the sailor One moment, the sea was sublime. In the next, it exploded into a violent storm.

And, in the eye of that storm was Fattah Al Rahman, a small Omani commercial vessel with nearly 20-odd sailors on board.

“It was a storm that could put the cyclones and storms that hit Oman in recent years to shame,” says Mabrook Sangour bin Shaneen Al Busaidy, a 79 year old sailor, pearl diver and fisherman, reliving his sailing days from his modest home in the Muttrah area. This incident, which he related to us was in June, 1946, when this group went from Muscat to Bombay (now Mumbai) on a sail boat ALL AT SEA They had no idea from where the storm erupted and caught unawares, for a moment, everyone floundered. The skies above broke and they were furiously pelted with huge rain drops, which was nothing compared to the giant waves that slammed on them immediately; the vessel began to swing violently and for some moments they seemed rooted to the spot, with a grim realisation that their end was nearing…

10 TIMES BIGGER “We had never witnessed anything like this before. It was 10 times bigger than the storms that hit Oman recently and we had no clue as to what was happening,” Mabrook said, reminding us that he, at 25, was the youngest sailor in a crew of 19 and other main sailors.

Black & White 29

B&W Xclusive 30 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

SAYING THEIR PRAYERS Heavy rains, giant waves, violent winds…hit the fraillooking vessel, one after the other, which was tossed upon the seas like a kid’s paper boat. And besides that, the thunder clapped above them all as though thoroughly enjoying the storm’s violent performance.

It seemed like doomsday and caught in that storm whirl, those on board, including Mabrook, thought of nothing else. They shut their eyes, said their prayers and tightly held on to whatever they could on the vessel, which was being battered with nature's fury.

The storm continued unabated for some hours and finally when they thought they were already dead, it suddenly subsided as suddenly as it had happened.

Those on board did not know whether to laugh or cry; they pinched themselves to see if the suddenly changed scenario was indeed true.

BOMBAY IN 12 DAYS At first there was the proverbial calm before the storm. Then, the calm resurfaced and it became deadly quiet. The sea was always a bundle of contrasts and contradictions and it took a while for the not too experienced sailors on the Fattah Al Rahman to understand that the belligerent storm had left them as suddenly as it had descended on them.

“We soon got back on to our feet and shook ourselves out of this bad nightmare and went about the task of sailing again. Luckily for us, we were not set off the course,” Mabrook recalled. In fact, despite being hit by such a violent storm, the vessel managed to reach Bombay in around 12 days. “Luckily, we reached the shores of Bombay in one piece. Although we were stuck in the storm for only a few hours, it felt like several months and the 12 days it took to reach Mumbai felt like 12 long months. But, we realised that we were blessed beyond doubt – for who will survive such a storm and live to tell the tale?” Mabrook chuckles, lightly.

SKETCHES OF THE PAST His eyes scoured the drab walls of his Majlis and fell on his amateurish masterpieces – sketches of some of the favourite dhows and vessels he had sailed on. During his retirement days, Mabrook tried to capture and relive his sailing days with such artistic efforts.

ADVENTURES GALORE The Muscat to Mumbai sea trip was filled with a variety of adventures. But, who would even dream that their

return journey would also be equally dramatic and event filled. “In fact, our return trip seemed equally risky. We reached Bombay in one piece, but the violent storm had left its mark on our fragile vessel. This made our return trip quite risky and challenging. We were waiting for the inevitable and then it happened – a huge crack split the vessel in the bottom area and water began to seep in. The captain ordered us to clear the water, but it just gushed in…”

Several hours passed and yet they could only make slow progress and it was still impeding their sailing.

“The captain then decided that the only way out was to repair the crack from beneath the vessel. Since I was the youngest, I was given the task of diving below the vessel and get the crack repaired!”

UNDERWATER REPAIR Mabrook recalls how he realised that he was once again put to a major test by fate, and this time around too he was unsure -- as he was when caught in the storm -- as to whether he would come out of it alive. “But, I did not have much time to think – soon, I was plunging into the icy cold and dark depths of the sea and swam under our vessel.”

Diving into the icy cold water was itself a shock and the young Omani boy almost froze, but they were all used to obeying orders and this enabled him to just do as he was told. “Besides the icy cold sea, there was also this fear of the unknown and mysterious creatures that were believed to reside in the deep. I was scared of the known creatures too, especially of the sharks and other fishes that swam around me when I dove beneath the vessel.

But, I focussed on the task before me and tried to drown every other thought or fear.”

He dove beneath, tried fixing the crack and then rushed back to suck in air. This went on for hours and soon he and his other mates managed to get the dangerous crack on the vessel repaired.

“I know all of this sounds dramatic, but even when I look back, I know that it was something else; nothing like what I have ever experienced – this sailing trip from Muscat to Bombay and back was an unforgettable one – it remains etched in my mind and embedded in my heart – l learnt how to be a man in a single sailing trip! “And more importantly, we survived what was by no means an ordinary ordeal – we had to survive, there was no other option!”

Black & White 31

HUMBLE ABODE Mabrook’s humble abode was set in Mateirah in Muttrah, somewhere near the foothills of Fort Mirani, which fronted the Muscat bay in the Corniche area.

Unusually, none of his family members were into sailing, fishing or anything remotely connected to Mabrook’s lifelong profession. Even his brothers did not get into sailing or fishing. “Somehow, right from a very young age, I was drawn to the sea and I have never drifted away from it,” Mabrook tells us, charting his growth from his early swimming days to fishing, then sailing, pearl diving and the like.

B&W Xclusive

Somehow, everything he did was connected to the sea, and despite the challenges the seas posed and also the fact that the rewards were not always forthcoming, he did not abandon the only livelihood that came by. The sea always threw up adventures after the other. As we chatted, Mabrook also recalled the time when he made the longest swim of his life.

April, 1950 HIS LONGEST SWIM “I was enjoying my meager lunch – rice, fish and dates

32 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

-- on my small boat, one mid afternoon, in 1950. Lunch was always a big affair as that was the only meal we had.

Though the skies were cloudy, I did not expect any problems. I was waiting for my day’s catch and hoping to return home by evening, but then…”

Then, once again, a storm broke without any warning; the serenity of that lazy afternoon was broken with a sudden stormy sky and sea outburst spurting out from nowhere. “There, in a short span of 30 minutes, the waves around me grew in giant sizes and walloped my tiny boat. Little did I expect the boat to capsize and throw me out in to the rough seas! I tried to hold on to my boat, but it sunk, leaving me with nothing to hold on to…

"I swam for my life, back to the shore, a good three to four hours of swimming... it was one of the longest swim I ever had. When my clothes began to get heavier and started pulling me down, I just shed them, broke free and rapidly swam to the shore…by the time I reached the shore, I was half dead and had to literally drag myself up the beach.”

NATURAL SWIMMER Having lost his boat, Mabrook was then forced to work with his friends, until he could get other sailing jobs to earn a living. “The sea was the only source of income for many of us in those days. Education remained a dream and we were focussed on earning a living at any cost. Growing up in the coastal area made me a natural swimmer and the sea my second home.”

SEA, MY LIVELIHOOD As a child Mabrook grew up playing near the beaches, and so the sea was naturally a part and parcel of his life.

“Probably that taught me swimming, my only life skill, and soon I chose a sailing career. I knew nothing else.

I began my life as a fisherman, sailing, taking people around in a small boat, then ran a ferry service, and finally got in to the government sector as a sailor.

I started with a basic salary of Indian Rupees 30 (Oman had Indian currency then). Sailing and fishing brought in the some money, but it was not enough.

I, along with a few friends, then ventured in to oyster fishing, diving for pearls. Oman was very famous for its pearls then and sometimes, when we were lucky, we made triple the usual money, if we found pearls,” Mubarak said, delving into another exciting phase of his sea life.

After his diving and sailing days, he retired from his sailing job in 1986 and then took up a civilian job in the military, he added.

PEARL DIVING Pearls were in good demand in those days and the money kept the divers motivated. “Most of the times the pearls turned out to be rare and small, but we always found buyers.

Oman was famous for pearls and we had good Asian and European visitors who bought them as well as some regular buyers. The local market was not thriving and healthy, but we, the young fishermen, made our extra money by selling pearls.

Black & White 33

30 PEARLS IN ONE OYSTER “I remember a freak fishing episode once in the late 60s when I went pearl diving. It was a very freaky, lucky day for me. I dove and found oysters and then later when I checked their insides, I discovered that one of them had a cluster of small pearls -- numbering to around 30 -embedded inside! It was an unbelievable find for me!

Not one or two or three… but 30 pearls! I could not believe my eyes. My friends happily surrounded me and congratulated me on my catch.”

Usually, after the fish and pearls sale, they used to go home with their dishdasha pockets full.

“But that day, I ran home clutching a bag full of money!”

Mabrook happily recalled. Today, his only disappointment is that the pearl industry never took off. “If only the industry had thrived, all of us in this profession would be in a better position today!”

B&W Xclusive

COURAGE AND PATIENCE Like any sailor, Mabrook not only had many sea tales to recount, but his watery sojourn has also taught him many valuable lessons.

“Simple tricks, employing the trial and error process etc., taught me how to live. When I used to get queasy or sea sick on sea, I would drink a mouth of sea water. It may taste bad, but, it made me alright! Just a mouth or two, more will make you sicker! Everything should be taken in moderation!

“When you are alone and fend for yourself, what do you learn? Courage! Yes, a life of sailing and fishing has taught me to be brave and more importantly to have patience. It taught me to face life head on and to swim out of darkness. I have had a happy life, though there are times when I wish I could have done better, sailed to other countries too!”

But, he immediately noted how tough and challenging life was then. “I was the sole bread earner for my family and I had to bring home the bacon! The sea taught me great patience and it also taught me how to deal with life and sudden surprises – even nasty ones -- and rise up to any challenges.

“Today, thank God, I am still alive to tell you all these tales. I am the sole surviving member of that fishing and pearl diving clan of that time in Muttrah.

All of my friends have passed away … now whenever I get a chance, I will pass on the seafaring and pearling tales of my time, detailing to the youngsters of today the stories of fear as well as triumph, also teaching them a few fishing tricks that I have learnt during my time.

“I never had a camera nor even thought of recording any of the events of my humble past, but, I have still managed to sketch some of the vessels that I had sailed on for my children and my grandchildren to see!”

Text: Adarsh Madhavan & Priya Arunkumar Photos: Ali Al Raisi

34 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

By Dr CK Anchan

It is easy to be open and honest about what we appreciate. When someone does something that we like, saying “thanks” is easy. Saying “what you did help me a lot” is natural.

Speaking openly and honestly about painful problems is sometimes another matter. If I tell my boss about my problem, will he or she care? Listen? Tell me to shut up and work? Insult me in return, accusing me of complaining?

Let’s suppose some of the answers to these questions is “no” and that my boss stifles my voice. What then?If that happens, often people will give up on the idea that speaking about the problem to their boss. Instead they simmer, gossip or worse.

Taken to its extreme, such organisations turn employees into serfs in a kind of organisational fiefdom “ruled” by the executive elite group. Communication flows one way, orders are given and people are expected to execute the orders.

While such organisations may be able to respond to certain emergencies efficiently, such a structure, strictly applied, is not usually good at learning, providing an atmosphere of respect for employees, or developing high-quality services.That’s because when communication goes only one way, it cuts off feedback loops in the organisation.

History has been re- written with adopting open communications; let me give an insight towards the world's best two examples.

IBM’S OPEN DOOR POLICY In the 1920’s, IBM instituted a process they called the 'Open Door' policy. Here’s how it worked: Employees with an unresolved problem were expected to take their problems to their managers. If they didn’t get them resolved

Management talk

Why ‘open communications’

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

to their satisfaction, they had a right to take the problem directly to the Ceo, Thomas J. Watson Jr. He said that through this policy, he could get a “measure of IBM’s health”, that on several occasions, “a single protest led to a substantial change in the way we did business” that “the Open Door was a morale builder. It made them (employees) feel free to approach a personnel manager or the person running the plant when they had a problem.”

Watson’s office handled two or three hundred cases a year, and he spent twenty five percent of his time on problems voiced via the Open Door policy. After 40 years of using the Open Door, 1960’s IBM gave birth to the era of computers and became the world’s most profitable company.

GENERAL ELECTRIC’S “WORK-OUT” SESSIONS General Electric, one of the world’s largest corporations, found a way to give employees a voice.

The Ceo Jack Welch and other managers practiced a forum called “Work-Out”. Work-Out was a series of thousands of “town meetings for GE employees to voice their issues, problems and suggestions. After hearing the employees’ comments, the managers of the meetings had to follow a rule; they had to come back into the room within two days and say yes or no, right on the spot, for 75 percent of the total issues raised.

Describing these meetings Jack Welch said that they “broke the barrier of people really understanding that, in fact, people’s ideas count. That was a major, major breakthrough.”

To conclude: “Healthy families have a rule that each family member can honestly say what they experience and ask for what they want.” I suppose this is the best practice, what do you say?

Black 35 Black & & White White 35

Read our magazine ONLINE Log on to

www.blackandwhiteoman.com Find us on facebook

Blackandwhite Oman

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

2011 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

By Dave Green

8/01

Difficulty Level

1 9

3 1 5 7 4

8 6

6 5

1 2

8 6

2 8 4 1 3 Difficulty Level

SOLUTION:

7 3

9 6

8

4

2011 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

By Dave Green

8/02

Difficulty Level

7 4 1 3 5 8 2 9 6

2 9 3 6 1 4 8 7 5

Difficulty Level

8/02

6 5 8 9 2 7 4 1 3

5 8 9 7 4 6 1 3 2

1 7 6 8 3 2 9 5 4

4 3 2 1 9 5 7 6 8

3 1 5 2 8 9 6 4 7

9 2 7 4 6 3 5 8 1

8 6 4 5 7 1 3 2 9

2011 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

1 2 7 3 4 6 8 9 5

9 3 4 2 5 8 1 6 7

8/01

5 8 6 9 1 7 2 4 3

4 5 2 8 3 9 6 7 1

8 7 1 4 6 5 9 3 2

6 9 3 1 7 2 4 5 8

3 4 9 5 2 1 7 8 6

7 1 5 6 8 4 3 2 9

2 6 8 7 9 3 5 1 4

2011 Conceptis Puzzles, Dist. by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

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

Black & White 37

Nitternatter

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

Power corrupts

People in power can be dangerous when they misuse their power. Let it be whatever power they have -- even if it is to release a document, approve something, or, better still, to do their duty, they tend to abuse their position, which has been given to them by higher ups in the hope that it will be a boon to the people, whom they actually serve. Power should not corrupt you, instead, it should be seen as what it truly is – a blessing to help the ones without the power. But, instead of helping, they would throw their weight around, totally disrupting the proceedings and making the whole affair a painful one. People with power, people with a certain amount of authority etc are ones who have been officially given that position. It is given to them in the hope that they serve the public. The power is given to them to so that they employ their official power to service the needs of the public, not to thwart their requirements or make the common man’s life one of misery. Instead of humbly serving, these power holders only succeed in thwarting the requirements of the public.

Why is it that power tends to corrupt so many people, we wonder and we are left with no answer. And why should we, the members of the public suffer, for no fault of ours? Why are these powerful, but still corrupt, members still given such posts?

Too numb to protest

We get letters from readers telling us that people have no concern about environment and there are plenty out there who tend to have no concern about Oman in any manner. They spit and litter and have no interest in keeping this country clean and sincerely don’t care about such things. But, there is an increasing frustration among many about the kind of salesmen and women manning counters of supermarkets in town? Oman has enough and more of stores, supermarkets and hypermarkets, but are the sales populace in these places totally insensitive to the needs of the customers and is it true that they really don’t care whether the customer buys or not?

Somehow we get the feeling from the increasing number of complaints received about bad salesmen and women in these outlets. Of course, we have also experienced the same and we feel that it is not only true, but nothing seems to be done about it. More and more sales personnel are joining this army out there in the outlets and more and more inexperienced, untrained and ill mannered sales personnel are out there in all these outlets and soon, we are all going to be numbed and used to the bad manners and bad sales of these personnel. Shouldn’t we all act before we reach a state where we are even too numb to react, to protest – or, are we there already?

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

38 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

‘Free’ revenge Free entry to events is considered to be the norm among many so-called music and art lovers in Oman, but it is a pity when non receivers of free tickets to shows take it to heart and then unleash their impotent fury on the members of the show organisers in the future. What we heard on the grapevine is that one senior VIP, who normally gets free tickets to almost all shows, was singularly ignored for a recent biggie event in town and he has vowed to get back at that particular show organiser because he was summarily “left out”! “Let them come to me for a favour, and I will show them,” he is reportedly have told his office folks.

Who let the cat in?

More on the freebies later, but, we are tempted to ask one question. At a recently concluded major concert, it was noticed that a certain section that was reserved for special needs people at the event was duly filled by those who were perfectly normal.

How did this happen? As the organisers of the event scratched their heads wondering how that happened, they had more to look into: apparently, a good segment of freeloaders streamed into the show just when the lights dimmed and snuck into whatever seats reserved for the organisers and the volunteers. Since the show had already begun, most of the organisers and volunteers could do little but to stand and watch the proceedings.

AJAY AJA AY E ENTERPRISES NTERPRISES

Black & White 39

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 Take your time. A decision you make will clearly affect your future earning potential. Don’t be scammed by a fast talker making empty promises. Put your best foot forward and show everyone what you’ve got going. Your skill coupled with your determination will captivate a crowd and help you initiate something you’ve wanted to do.

CANCER June 22-July 23 Open up to new ideas, lifestyles or activities in the early part of the week and you will broaden your outlook as well as your friendships. There is a whole new world waiting for you to take part, so spread your wings and get involved.

It’s very likely you will discover that change isn’t so bad after all.

TAURUS April 21-May 20

GEMINI May 21-June 21

Don’t let anyone convince you that you must take part in something or make a donation. You don’t want to end up being part of a scam or out cash that you can put to better use. Avoid making fresh investments. Emotions are topped up causing confusion in your personal life. Stay away from gossipers.

Take credit where credit is due. Show your feelings and avoid unnecessary stress and turmoil.

Someone is likely to jump ship leaving you high and dry. Don’t let this stop you from following through with your plans. You have plenty to offer and can do just as well all by yourself. Originality will promote progress.

LEO July 24-August 23 Make memories with someone you cherish this week, but be cautious when considering products that offer to turn you into something you are not. Don’t spend money on someone or something that will not benefit you personally.

You have to invest in you if you want to be successful.

VIRGO August 24-September 23 A lifestyle change this week will help you get out and socialise with a new group of people. You’ll learn a hard lesson if you let a friend or colleague take over and take credit for something you’ve been working towards. Stand up for your rights or you will set a standard that will keep repeating.

STEVEN ALLAN SPIELBERG KBE (BORN DECEMBER 18, 1946) is an American film director, screenwriter, producer, video game designer, and studio entrepreneur. In a career of more than four decades, Spielberg's films have covered many themes and genres.

Spielberg's early science-fiction and adventure films were seen as an archetype of modern Hollywood blockbuster filmmaking. In later years, his films began addressing such issues as the Holocaust, slavery, war and terrorism. He is considered one of the most popular and influential filmmakers in the history of cinema.He is also one of the co-founders of the DreamWorks movie studio.

Spielberg won the Academy Award for best director for Schindler's List (1993) and Saving Private Ryan (1998). Three of Spielberg's films—Jaws (1975), E.T.– the Extra-Terrestrial (1982), and Jurassic Park (1993) – achieved box office records, each becoming the

Horoscope

highest-grossing film made at the time. To date, the unadjusted gross of all Spielberg-directed films exceeds $8.5 billion worldwide.

40 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

ars LIBRA September 24-October 22 Search for a chance to try something unique this week.

A partnership with someone who has as much to contribute is looking good. You shouldn’t have to use your own cash or pay for someone else, in order to get things done properly. Use your finesse and charm and you will be the one being paid for.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 Pull out all the stops and present, promote and push for what you want. Working quickly to satisfy a request will speak volumes about your intentions. Emotional matters will surface this week, complicating issues, if you have ignored someone who depends on you for companionship and comfort.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 22 Be careful of what others promise. Someone is likely to back out of a deal or ask for something back that you’ve been given. Put your heart on the line and you can make some interesting changes at home that are conducive to love romance and raising your comfort level.

CAPRICORN December 23-January 20 Giving in to someone who is demanding or trying to get something from you will send the wrong message. Stand firm and refuse to pay for someone else’s mistakes. You can secure your position personally and financially by making a few crucial changes to your portfolio.

AQUARIUS January 21-February 19 Educational or travel plans may be derailed, if you haven’t got all your papers in order. Don’t rely on someone else to fill in the blanks. Settle matters quickly so you don’t miss out on an opportunity that pops up. Take your chance with new opportunities surfacing.

PISCES February 20-March 20 Compromise may not sit well with you, but it will be necessary if you want to get the support you need to get your dreams off the ground. Stick to your story and eventually you will get through to the people who count. You cannot give in to complaints or ultimatums if you want to come out on top.

Black & White 41

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 42 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Fun facts about

Santa Claus Santa Claus incorporates many traditions: Christian and Pagan, Old Catholic, Scandinavian, Dutch, German and English.

Santa brings us all together! Kids all over the world know who Santa is, here are a few facts on the multicultural Santas: In Italy Babbo Natale, which means Father Christmas, is Santa. Children put a pair of their shoes by the door on the day before Epiphany and the following morning they find them filled with small gifts and candy.

In Spain children leave their shoes under the Christmas tree the night of January 5th and presents from the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos: Melchor, Gaspar and Baltasar) appear the next morning. Santa Claus is called Papa Noel and some children receive presents both days on December 24th (from Papa Noel) and on January 6th (from the Three Kings). In Morocco he is known as Black Peter.

In Japan, Santa Claus is called Santa Claus or just “Santa”.

Children often call him “Santa no ojisan,” which means “Uncle Santa".

In Sweden Jultomten visits the evening before Christmas day, pulling a big bag of julklappar (Christmas presents) in the deep snow.

In the Netherlands, he is called Kerstman.

In Finland, he is called Joulupukki.

Sinter Klaas in Dutch. He is much thinner than the American Santa Claus. He rides a white horse and gets help from numerous Zwarte Pieten (Black Petes) handing out gifts and candy. He arrives the first Saturday in November by Boat.

In Russia, he is called Grandfather Frost that is “ded moroz”.

Tongue twisters Santa’s Short Suit Shrunk Black & White 43

Sweet ideas for

Cooking

XMAS

44 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

Spread more holiday cheer, bake a Christmas cake, simple and easy… here are a few easy recipes:

SANTA CLAUS CUPS Ingredients Cupcake White and red icing Mini marshmallow Shredded coconut Blue and pink gel icing Red candy

Method Frost the cupcake with a layer of white icing. Add the red frosting hat, curving it around the side of Santa’s face, and a marshmallow pom-pom.

Sprinkle on a ring of coconut to make Santa’s beard and hair. Draw on his eyes and cheeks with gel icing, then top it all off with a red candy nose.

FROSTY CUPCAKES Ingredients Cooled cupcake (baked from your favourite recipe) White icing Large marshmallows Waxed paper Pretzel sticks Decorators’ gel Orange slice candy Junior Mints Thin Mints Fruit leather

Method Frost a cooled cupcake (baked from your favourite recipe) with white icing. Flatten a large marshmallow on waxed paper with the palm of your hand. Cut a second marshmallow in half horizontally, then stack the halves on the first marshmallow to form a torso and head. Push a thin pretzel stick down through the snowman (this will help him stand up), then set him on the cupcake. Use decorators’ gel to create a mouth, eyes, and buttons, then add pretzel stick arms and a wedge cut from an orange slice candy for a nose. Accessorise with a candy hat (a Junior Mint secured to a Thin Mint with icing) and a fruit leather scarf.

SIMPLE CHOCOLATE CUPCAKE Ingredients 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour 1 1/2 cups white sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda 1/2 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 large eggs 3/4 cup water 3/4 cup buttermilk 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter 1 tsp vanilla extract 2/3 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)

Directions Preheat oven to 350F. Place liners in 2-12 cup tins. In a large bowl, whisk together cocoa, flour, white sugar, baking soda, baking powder and salt until thoroughly mixed. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, water, buttermilk, vegetable oil and vanilla extract. Whisk into flour mixture until all of the ingredients are mixed in and no streaks of flour remain. Add in optional mini chocolate chips, if using.

Fill muffin cups evenly with the prepared batter.

Bake at 350F for 15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a cupcake comes out clean, or with only a few crumbs. Remove cupcakes from the pan and cool completely on a wire rack before frosting.

Black & White 45

Be only the shade of yourself

Laila, Omani graduate student of Nizwa University

By Laila Ibrahim Obaid Al-Gharbi

“There is but one cause of failure and that is man’s lack of faith in his true self.” -- William James Every time we fail in life, we need to reflect on why this happened. We need some moments of reflection in total silence. And sometimes it seems a bit difficult for us to bear that we were mistaken because we didn’t trust ourselves enough or we were wearing a shoe that didn’t fit us. But there is one way to being happy or happier; being only the shade of ourselves. Unfortunately, most of us always compare ourselves with others and we only end up being hurt…

I think each one of us is unique and special and that can be easily noticed with those who always wear the shoes that fit them. Indeed we cannot find ourselves in other’s eyes unless we try our best to reflect the self we want to be in our own eyes.

When any one amongst us are confused between a role model and being a shade of someone else, it is simply to underestimate his own ability to live the way he wants. There is a big difference between me and my role model because I cannot feel completely happy when I am imitating someone else. The real happiness is just inside me and when I respect my own self.

This might be obvious with teens who are trying to copy a celebrity’s, teacher’s, father’s or friend’s personality. They might think that by doing so they are building up their personality but in reality they are destroying themselves. If you have tried or are even trying to be someone else, let me hasten to say: “Stop doing that because you are losing the uniqueness you already have”.

Learning curve

And to be special, just be the shade of yourself because it is the power you need to go ahead in life. Nowadays, there are people looking for themselves and they are very sorry for not living their own lives and enjoying the gifts they were given…all that because they were shades of others not of themselves.

You can cheat everyone for awhile but not yourself, decide from now to be only the shade of yourself! lalgharbi@yahoo.com

46 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

It's my life

5 fingers in our life Vandana, award winning author (‘360 Degrees Back to Life')

By Vandana Shah

So its that time of the year when we all start thinking like chartered accountants and take stock of our life the debits and the credits, the savings, the interest, withdrawals and deposits. Yes, its the end of the year and its time for STOCK ANALYSIS OF YOUR LIFE. The five fingers of your hand become the pointers for the BIG CALCULATIONS. FAMILY: Was it a good year for you with your family? Did you spend enough time with them? Did you help out each other during your times of crisis? If the answer is yes, then definitely add a tick mark to the credit side in your stock analysis of the year.

FRIENDS: Did you make any new ones? Were you a true friend in the purest form? If yes then go ahead and get the tick. Did you lose out on any? Any gossip about your friends which you felt you shouldn’t have done? If yes then go ahead and a tick in the debit side.

WORK: I don’t want to talk about promotions because this involves other factors which are beyond your control. I emphasise on the time that you spent doing your work well? Did you enhance your talent and also contribute positively to the organisation? If yes you know what you get. Were you a slacker and take off when no one was looking?

FUN N FROLIC: Hope you had lots of fun and laughs and were more happy than sad throughout the year and hence made life worthwhile cos you know the age old adage --you live only once.

GOD:I cant overemphasise the importance of the God in our lives.

He is responsible for US in every form, I don’t think I need to reiterate what he means to all of us. So I hope you spent some time at least in HIS PRESENCE.

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 47

Shape n sound 48 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

More than a

NAIL-BITING FINISH Stop! If you were planning to bite your uneven nails, just drop that thought. Nails are not meant to be bitten. They are meant to be taken care of, and properly.

Do whatever you can do to drop the habit of biting your nails. Why? Simple, because it can cause an infection, and it can also make your nails look ugly.

Most of us do get the urge to bite our nails when the edge is rough, but when you are consumed by such an urge, all you have got to do is to use a file – carry a small file with you. So, next time the urge hits you, use the file. But make sure that you always have a top quality file.

Women have always been fascinated by their nails. There is a certain charm in having stylish, polished nails. It adds beauty and confidence in women. But good nails are not easy to come by.

SIMPLE NAIL CARE TIPS You need to take special care of the nails. Here are some simple nail care tips to keep your nails healthy:

•

• • • • • •

• •

•

• •

Always keep your nails clean and dry. Proper cleaning can keep your nails away from dirt and infections and keeping it dry again will not allow sticking of microbes to it and will also avoid fungal growths under nails.

Always cut your nails straight across making slight curve at the nail tip.

Always use sharp clipper or scissors. Do not file the nails at points. This can make your nails weak.

Take a fine textured file to shape your nails and keep them free of snags.

Check finger biting right away. Do not remove the cuticle.

Keep your toenails short by regular trimming. Keeping shorter nails will keep your nails away from injuries and trauma.

Use warm salt water to soak your feet. Continue doing this for about 10 minutes. This is a good practice to follow if your nails are thick and is difficult to get trimmed. Apply lactic acid creams or urea following the water treatment. This will make your toenails softer and hence will be easier to trim them.

Do not ‘dig-out’ ingrown toenails. Avoid doing this when they are infected, sore or feels painful. Consult a dermatologist.

Always wear shoes that fit you properly. Alternating pairs is a very good practice. Wearing one shoe for a longer time can cause deformities.

If you get to find any irregularities in your nails, consult a dermatologist. Any changes in the nail, pain or swelling can be a sign of any serious health problem.

Always keep a close eye on your nails if you are a diabetic or have a poor circulation.

Keep proper nail care tips in mind and make sure your nails are always looks healthy and strong.

Black 49 Black & & White White 49

Shape n sound 50 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

DANCERCISE your way out of misery So you have tried every form of exercise out there? You have done it all -from aerobics to biking to the elliptical. And, now you are bored, restless and frustrated and you no longer want to stick to one exercise regimen…

But, exercise is necessary – exercise is the elixir of life, especially for women.

The truth is that other than lack of time, boredom is the number one reason people break their exercise routines.

So, what do we do here? How do we break through this exercise monotony?

Dance?

Well, why not?

GRIND TO GLADNESS “Exercise loves company and adores rhythm, so why pound a treadmill when you can dance your cardio workout away?” experts query. They say that dance-based workouts, from Zumba to Bollywood aerobics to flexes at the ballet barre, can take your fitness from grind to gladness, with an international flair.

Why not because women don’t have it easy… They have the pressure of family, career, and health issues, which can be difficult to confront when they come at one stroke. This combined with emotional distress can be quite destructive for a woman.

DANCERCISE So, you have to get all of that out of the system. How do you do that? Exercise, that is the only answer. But, instead of boring exercise, let us try to engage in dancercise.

Women can build confidence through dance and related activities, it has been established. Dance requires coordinated movement of the body that engages the mind and challenges the person’s ability to express themselves in a free manner.

Again, for women who are struggling with unwanted weight gain or unwanted flab, dancing can be a way of losing weight and toning muscle. Many people struggle with unwanted weight and feel hopeless because they are not sure how to make the weight disappear and lose those pounds.

GET ZUMBA FIT Now, there is this relatively new form of exercise that brings in a workout that is fast-paced, upbeat, and most importantly, fun! Most of you may have heard of it and may have already started dancing to it -- Zumba (pronounced zoom-buh) is a dance fitness class set to Latin and world music beats. It is choreographed with salsa and other Latin dance moves so that people with all levels of dance experience can adapt to the routines. Zumba uses high and low impact dance steps that make up the hour-long workout. But don’t worry – the steps are fairly simple and easy to learn quickly, Zumba lovers say. In fact, there are many who have gone into Zumba with no previous dance experience.

Even if you dread exercising, you will not have any problem with Zumba. In fact, Zumba lovers say that it is so much fun that it is hard to remember that you are exercising until you realise you are sweating.

If you are looking for fun things to do in your community you need to search out a Zumba class! Zumba is a great way to lose weight, strengthen your cardio endurance, and stay fit. Zumba fans say that they don’t even realise that they are exercising. Want to go Zumba?

Black & White 51

FOODS that can slow down your AGE Eat a clove of garlic a day (raw or cooked; better raw) and it will protect your body against cancer and skin disease. Earlier studies have recorded that women who ate a clove of garlic at least once a week were 50 percent less likely to develop colon cancer and it was also instrumental in reducing cholesterol levels and lowering the risk of heart disease.

In fact, there are some fantastic foods out there that can not only assist in slowing down the aging process, but also bring about a spring of well being in you.

GINGER This spicy root can boost the digestive and circulatory systems, which can be useful for older people. Ginger may also help to alleviate rheumatic aches and pains.

SOYA Menopausal women might find that soya helps to maintain oestrogen levels. Soya may alleviate menopausal hot flush and protect against Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis and heart disease. Look out for fermented soya products, which are more easily digested, therefore more nutritional, and do not generally cause food intolerances.

NUTS Most varieties of nuts are good sources of minerals, particularly walnuts and brazi nuts. Walnuts, although high in calories, are rich in potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper and selenium. Adding nuts to your diet (sprinkle them on salads and desserts) can enhance the functioning of your digestive and immune systems, improve your skin help control prevent cancer. Nuts may also help control cholesterol levels.

Shape n sound

CRUCIFEROUS VEGETABLES From garlic, let us go to the family of cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, kale, turnip, Brussels sprouts, radish and watercress). If we consume of any of these vegetables or a combo of them on a daily basis, it will assist our bodies in their fight against toxins and cancer.

AVOCADO Avocado contains a significant amount mono-saturated fat, which helps reduce bad cholesterol, and Vitamin E which aid in the prolonging of the aging of the skin. It is also a great source of potassium which is known to

52 December 7, 2011-January 6, 2012

prevent high blood pressure and fluid retention.

SALMON For people who don’t enjoy eating vegetables, salmon is the perfect choice owing to the great quality protein it contains. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids which make the skin healthy. For optimum results, it is advised to include salmon into your diet at least thrice a week.

BROCCOLI Broccoli belongs to the family of cruciferous vegetables which are famous for assisting the body in fighting against toxins. Broccoli also contains quercetin and isothiocyanates which are known antioxidants.

Reportedly, broccoli sprouts contain more isothiocyanates than the vegetable itself.

BERRIES Berries, especially blue and black ones great sources of flavonoids which are known to be powerful antioxidants.

These antioxidants protect the body against aging as well as free radicals. Berries also help prevent the toxin build up in the body, hence fighting the aging process.

WATERMELON Watermelon is known as one of the best anti-aging foods. Containing nutrients like selenium, Vitamins A, B, C and E, essential fats and zinc, it is the most effective food against radical damage and aging. Also both its flesh and seeds are equally nutritious.

WATER Try to drink at least 8-9 glasses of water every day in order to remain healthy. Water helps us to get rid of the toxins and unwanted waste materials from your body.

What you got to understand is that you should not rely on thirst alone; instead, just drink often.

Black & White 53

Of trunks and tails…

Hooked

By Priya Arunkumar He was thrown out the classroom.

Not for any serious offence or neglect.

For drawing an elephant!

We laughed out so loudly that he withdrew sadly saying all of you are the same.

What ‘exactly’ did you draw, we mocked him.

"An elephant, a little distorted though… the figure I drew resembled an elephant, there was no doubt about it; it is just that the tail got a little thicker," he explained.

How can a tail get thicker? We interrogated him time and again "Well, the time was so little, and we had no choice of animals," he explained.

"I could have drawn a cat or even a rabbit easily.

But the art teacher compelled me to draw an elephant.

So, you see, I was left with little choice or no choice at all.

I was a kid, and had not seen an elephant directly; the image of an elephant in mind was that of the ones I have seen in movies.

While I sat to draw, I did not have a clear picture in mind. In fact I suddenly went blank.

Like every other kid, I knew an elephant was fat, had four legs, a trunk and a tail.

I knew I had to draw it big, because elephants were supposed to be black and big.

But, I got stuck with the tail!"

Tail? It is the easiest part to draw, we pulled his leg again. All you need is to draw a long line and shade it down bottom.

"You don’t get it," he continued, "I drew the tail a little bigger, a little more thicker than it should be, well, according to the teacher. But, I still feel I drew the tail right, it was the trunk that got a little thinner…and the teacher didn’t understand the mistake I did!"

We rolled in laughter again…

As a kid everybody does this; what’s wrong? Teachers are supposed to teach you, not throw you out of the classroom.

We are not cameras to capture everything fully! Defensively, he explained: "Look at the modern art today; people spend a fortune buying scribbles of big names and abstract art.

I have seen disfigured elephants displayed at various art shows and major connoisseurs looking at those canvases as if there was a deep meaning to it all…

I am sure, if I had done the drawing today, I could have packaged it and sold it for a good amount!"

We laughed our hearts out that day; we still do if someone mentions an elephant, or an illustration today.

The best part of it all is he didn’t get disillusioned or demoralised by the school episode. Though it did not teach him any lessons of life, he got in to a career that makes him draw, illustrate and Photoshop elephants and the like on his computer on a daily basis. He is a designer today, though he claims if the teacher had not thrown him out of the art class, he would have been a great painter and illustrator! priya@blackandwhiteoman.com