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Weekly December 29, 2009Issue 102MICHAELJACKSONWadi Bani AwfAli Saif Al-RawahieVOLUTIONBaby Tips for New Mums,Ladies Speak,Godzilla in AutobahnBaker’s Pride, Iron MaidenPublic Enemies, Wadi Dogs

Dear Reader,It is definitely time to get your copy of Prince’s 1999, place itin your CD player and turn it up! It’s the end of the year, and atime to reflect on the year that has passed us by.And what a year it was. To some one of disappointing financialreturns, to others it was ridden out a lot easier than originallyexpected. A spell of disappointment came from the Obamacamp, we said farewell to Michael Jackson, and the worldis now transfixed on environmental concerns. In fact, it is ofsuch great concern, that whilst a broken chunk of an Antarcticiceberg greater than 140-km square heads for Australia, andthe rise in temperature due to green house gases will bethree times higher than predicted, we’re going to look into theimpact of climate change here in Oman. But that’s in our nextissue, the first issue of 2010.In the pages we’ve prepared for you here, we are looking intothe revolution in how we use the Internet, taking place righthere in Oman. The ITA’s initiative to access the world throughone portal will change how we do things in the Sultanate. Wewere very fortunate to have had the chance to discuss thisinitiative with Dr. Salim bin Sultan Al Ruzaiqi, and we shedsome light on eOman and eGovernance.Society is gearing up for 2010 celebrations, and there is atremendous amount going on in cars, gadgets, health andbeauty, and the sporting world. It’s all here, in the last everissue of Y for 2009.Happy New Year!Y Team

This week in10Twentyfour SevenBrittany Murphy, Mud-sucking whale, Santa12Check This OutSounds, Movie, Wadi Dogs, New Year’s Eve16VentureWadi Bani Awf18Y-rated:eOman,eGovernance,eVolution24SpotlightAli Saif Al-Rawahi28 Yin-YangBaby Tips for New Mums, Ask the Ladies32 Yin-YangFuturistic Stuff from 2009, AutoBahn38 X-tra TimeSchumacher, Mark Hughes, Messi, Oman Rally22CultureMichael Jackson40 ChillaxativeCrosswords, Your Stars and Comic Relief6

Share the load!I heard people complaining about how long it takes to get a landlineconnection here in Oman. But, it is one thing to hear about it andone thing to have it happen to you.In other countries it only takes three days to a week max to get alandline connection. So, why does it take three to four months justto get the line other than the additional month or two to change itfrom normal line to ADSL? Oman Needs a New land line Provider toput some new competition in the Market and reduce the pressureon the one and only current provider.Some may ask, “why not use Wireless?” I have and I think they aretoo expensive and not as fast when compared to ADSL.Mr. M - a frustrated ADSL customerThere Is More Than One Way To Celebrate!Dear Y team,I am new to Oman, and have been reading your magazine for thepast month. What caught my eye are the details you all put in oneissue. It can clearly be a monthly magazine!For the last issue, 102, I would like to comment on ‘The CountdownBegins’, where you listed many places to celebrate New Year, it wasgreat! My family and I are choosing where to celebrate from thatlist. Thank you for that, as many newcomers to Oman really haveno idea what to do. Happy New Year!Sarah J.Checking It OutHello YI had no idea that the Al-Bustan had the Vue! Thanks for shiningsome light on what they are offering now. We are indeed going tocheck it out. I wish you could cover some fashion stuff in Oman,as in where to find what, locally. Maybe even a weekly on what ishappening at the cinema?Thanks!Jude Waresmaika[Ed: Jude, we have lots of things bubbling away here in the Y lab,and I think you will see lots of new exciting content in-line with whatyou have mentioned coming out in our 2010 issues! Keep reading!]8

Editor-in-ChiefSayyida Iman bint Hamadbin Hamood Al BusaidiManaging EditorKiran Jay HaslamWork EditorPaul McLoughlinFeatures EditorClint Derric EgbertChief ReporterKarima FaridDesign & LayoutJon HueekContributorsPenny DestroYahia LababidiPhotographyJerzy WierzbickiEditorial Enquiriesinfo@y-oman.comPublished by SABCO Press,Publishing & Advertising LLCY is a SABCO Media Product.

Taking the BiscuitA familiar name with many in Europe, Baker’s Pride is now being made right here in Oman, at the company’s Soharplant under Britannia. The move is not just good for biscuit lovers in the Sultanate, but also a great boost to the localeconomy, as the plant looks set to export its ‘danish’, ‘butter’, ‘chocolate’, ‘double chocolate chip’ cookies to over 25countries, creating local jobs in order to do so. Arvind Kumar, CEO, Britannia International said, “The refreshed Baker’sPride is a completely new brand. Given our expertise of over 100 years in the biscuit industry, we’ve changed the recipes,we’ve partnered with the best in package designs and the new product is locally produced yet on par with internationalstandards in look, feel and most importantly taste.”Now here at Y, along with our mid-morning tea, we are great lovers of sweet and savoury accompaniments, so we now need to set about the ‘arduous chore’ ofeating all of these wonderfully delicious biscuits, so we can report back to you on just how great they taste! [Ed: Hmmm?]“THAT WHALE SUCKS!”YES IT DOES. IT SUCKS MUD.Scientists have discovered a 25 million-year-old fossil of a dwarf blue whale, the ancestor to the modern day baleen blue whale,one of the largest and most intelligent animals on our planet. The oceans of South Australia are notorious for whale oddities.Tiny, strange whale fossils have emerged from the area and have had scientists speculating about how these creaturesevolved into the majestic creatures of today. Mammalodon Colliveri is not just a dwarf whale that fed by suckingmud from the seafloor via its shortened snout, and filtering through the sediment wit its tongue. It is an importantfind, as it is a crucial link to support Charles Darwin’s observations on whale evolution.In his study of the evolution of species, Darwin speculated that baleen whales were once suctionfeeders, evolving into the filter feeding deep-sea giants we find today. Humpback, Blue, RightWales and Fin Wales are just a few examples of how these dwarf whales may have evolved.BRITTANY MURPHYA quiet Christmas it must have been in the Murphy household as BrittanyMurphy’s life came to a tragic end. Witnessed by only close friends andfamily, the Murphy burial had husband Simon Monjack deliver an emotionalsend-off speech describing her as his soul mate. The ‘Clueless’ and ‘8 Mile’star was reported to have died of a cardiac arrest at her home in Hollywood,however the officialcause of death is yet tobe revealed. For peoplewho knew her well, she“was an incredibly lovingand passionate personand an artist to hercore. She loved acting,singing, dancing andperforming. A bright light that lit the world is forever dimmed but will live on inthe hearts of those Brittany touched.” Aged only 32 when she passed away,Murphy made a name for herself in Hollywood at a time when breaking intothe industry was a feat not many could accomplish. Promotional and coverartwork from a DVD release depicting the actress lifeless in a bathtub, hasbeen removed and recalled from circulation. Although the film is one of thelast appearances to be made by the starlet, it has been deemed inappropriatedue to her untimely death and the circumstances surrounding it.US Military Tracking SantaIt’s been half a century since North American Aerospace Defense Command(Norad) has been tracking Santa’s journey around the globe and this year it wasbusiness as usual as children could see him stop off in Cairo, Paris and Chinadelivering gifts. The US military has been informing children across the worldof when Santa will drop off presents to their home country since an accidentalnewspaper mistake about tracking Santa went to print in 1956.Since then, the US military have also been responsible for many an orphan ofwar left in need. So if Santa chose to stop off in Hanoi, Baghdad, or Kabul we’repretty sure he’d know who has been naughty, and who has been nice. Next stopTehran!10

Viral VideoThe Muppets: Bohemian RhapsodyTo celebrate the 40th year of Sesame Street, the people continuing Jim Henson’s legacy – to not treatchildren like children, but like the intelligent sponges that they are – have put together their ‘Muppet’take on Queen’s megahit ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’. With over 10,846,547 hits in just over three weeks,this is truly a great viral video. Die hard fans from across the world have seen it, with .mp3 and .avidownloads popping up everywhere, and it has aired on Al Jazeera, BBC, NBC, CNN… literally everymajor radio station or TV station.It just goes to show you how close to our hearts Sesame Street, the Muppets and Henson’s creativity andmessage still is. For those of you that haven’t already done so, log on to YouTube, and you’ll see Gonzo, hischickens; Fozzie, Animal and all your favourite characters, weaving hilariously into the lyrics of the original hit song. It’s hilarious.SoundSEVENTH SON OF A SEVENTH SONIron MaidenNow before you read this, in order toget in the spirit of things, you mustscreech at your highest possiblepitch, with tremendous aggression,“Born of woman, thye chosen onehath save-eth the maiden from thetower where the crimson rage splitin twain…” or something to thateffect.Perhaps one of history’s greatest‘concept albums’ in the heavymetal genre, Iron Maiden released‘Seventh Son of a Seventh Son’ in1998. That same year the albumtook the number one spot on theUK Albums Chart. Many fans of theiconic band claim that it was theirlast album featuring their greatestline-up, as guitarist Adrian Smith departed the band shortly after its release.Vocalist Bruce Dickinson joined forces with guitarists Dave Murray andAdrian Smith; bassist Steve Harris and drummer Nicko McBrain to developone of the world’s greatest progressive rock acts of all time. Iron Maidenfused mysticism and the occult with the hardest, toughest, most relentlessrock attitude stemming from men in tights, that was still easily digestedby a wide audience. However, Maiden is the iconic band for mostly angryyoung men.The slickly produced record captured Iron Maiden at a point in which they had honedtheir live performance, smoothed over their raw edge and stepped up their lyricismand song craft. ‘Seventh Son Of A Seventh Son’ is a sculpted and playful 9 minuteand 53 second piece that stands out as Maiden’s greatest opus, it is but one trackon this album to remain in the band’s live set-list to this very day. Other standouttracks include ‘The Clairvoyant’ and ‘Moonchild’. The whole album is powerful andcomplex, and well worth the listening experience.Coolest clock ever?Some artistic genius out there has developed this novelty LCD clock.The artist filmed a pane of frosted glass, which he then stood behindfor 24 hours and updated painstakingly with a ruler and marker, onthe minute – every minute. The 24hr video footage was then bounceddown to DVD and played on an LCD screen, housed in a wooden box,and cut out to make a hole replicating a grandfather’s clock facade.Check it out in action on YouTube by typing ‘coolest clock ever’ intothe search field.12

WHERE SHOULD I GO THIS NEW-YEARS EVE?It’s that time of the year when people reach down into their pockets and realisewhat once was there, is now no more. Money spent on gifts and decorations hasprobably left you scratching your head thinking of what you can do to celebrate theNew Year affordably.You are probably already aware of what the big 5-star outlets are doing, but youmay have overlooked the cost effective and fantastic offers from a few other placesthat we think are well worth your expense. They are, to our sensibilities, just asglamorous and fun, offering great food and beverages, and the right atmosphere tosay hello and goodbye to the calendar year.You can also take a look at the hip happenings Left Bank, where you can celebrateNew Year’s Eve with those who know how. The best part is that entry is free.Keep in mind that doors close at 11pm. Your other option is to dine on the LeftBank Terrace. 2 Courses of the exclusive menu is priced at RO18 per person, and 3courses just RO24 per person. Call 24693699 to reserve your place.The Golden Tulip is offering an evening with a Lebanese Show comprising of a onemanshow, belly dancer and lady singer. If you’re seeking a Gala Dinner, the hotel’s‘Why Not Club, Mirage Bar’ hosts a special celebration with a band and great meal.Call 24510300 for more.As the New Year inches closer, celebrations are in the air at the Radisson Bluhotel’s restaurants and outlets. The Lazy Lizard - the hotels intimate pool andgarden setting - will host the hotel’s main New Year’s Eve celebration, with a Galadinner under the stars. Guests can enjoy a special 3-course dinner prepared by chefChristian Pageot and his team. A live performance from “The Lighter Side” a 7-pieceband is also on the cards, singing songs in tribute to King of Pop - Michael Jackson,while partying away 2009 and toasting in 2010. If you are after a mega dance party,head down to the Cellar for a great night of dancing. DJ Prince will keep you goingtill the wee hours for just RO 15.After all the fun, if your headache ain’t too bad, you can start 2010 with a bubblylunch at Olivos, offering an unrivalled monster buffet with endless variety ofdelicious dishes and unlimited bubbly. It starts at 1pm and ends at 5pm and theindulgence costs RO 37.There is so much on offer here in Oman this New-Year, so you may even like to checkout the Park Inn. Diners can countdown and toast in 2010 at the RBG Grill, where anexquisitely prepared three-course gourmet meal will provide the perfect finish to2009. If you want to party a little more you can enjoy unparalled rooftop ambience,with a DJ. Group bookings are also available. Call to find out more 24507888.There’s always Uptown, offering fun and excitement in ‘Uptown style’ (call24706020), or even the Al Nahda Resort & Spa, with a grand buffet, a breakdanceperformance and a music extravaganza, all for just RO 15. Call Al Nahda on26883710 to make a booking.With so much on offer around town, all of us here at Y are going crazy choosingwhere to go! You’ll probably find us doing a tour of all of these spots in an effortnot to miss out on any of the action! Happy New Year! (Ed: With a ‘whizzzzz’ and a‘pop!’ whilst wearing a funny hat, cue ‘Auld Lang Syne’.)

wadi dogsIf you pick up a starving dog and make himprosperous, he will not bite you. This is theprincipal difference between a dog and a man.- Mark TwainA few months ago, we rescued a little puppy here in Seeb near the Y office. Duringthe days that followed, whilst re-homing the little tyke, many ill-informed peopleapproached me and preached of the ‘nippiness’ of the breed. Although their wordswere appreciated – after all I have a 20 month old daughter in my home – theirunderstanding of Wadi Dogs, or Omani Cats for that matter, is simply incorrect. Ihave personally raised many wild dogs and cats in my time here in Oman, and yes,although they are different to your average domesticated pet, they are no moredangerous than any other animal you might purchase at a pet store. So we spoketo Helen Ingram, so she could tellus a few reasons why Wadi Dogscan be just as loving and loyal astheir pedigree counterparts.There are so many benefits inadopting one of Oman’s stray dogs that will be forever grateful to you simply forgiving him a good, safe home. They can be housetrained in the same way as theirblue-blooded cousins, and in fact many of them are used to a domestic life havingbeen cruelly dumped by ‘owners’ who leave the country or simply get bored of theresponsibility of caring for their pet.A Wadi Dog is actually a breed with many intermixed breeds in its gene pool, whichmakes it very hardy and immune to disease, unlike pedigrees, that due to inbreedingmake them susceptible to infections and deformities.A stray dog will give you so much love, affection and loyalty – once he has had his vetcheck up and vaccinations, all he requires is a good diet and regular exercise to keephis coat looking as shiny as his ‘posh’ cousins! And to help Oman with its problemof stray dogs, do get your new pet neutered or spayed to ease the problem of morehomeless animals on the streets.Wadi Dogs are not to be feared by us, or cruelly treated by us. They tend to roam thestreets in packs as they fear human interaction but they will not attack you unlessprovoked by such cruelty as throwing stones or sticks at them. Something we seeoccurring far too often over here.Rather than regarding these animals as vermin and pests,and encouraging their destruction by ROP culls, we shouldrecognise them as an Omani breed in itself, and face the straydog issue head-on by setting up a facility to offer a safe havento the dogs, with a neuter and release programme alongsidean adoption and fostering programme, such as that offeredby K9 Friends in Dubai. The public, the local vets and theMunicipality could work together to find a more humane wayof controlling the Wadi-Dog population.Helen provided us withphotos and informationon several Wadi Dogadoption success stories. We heard about ‘Penelope’ – a tinypuppy found on a construction site, who after a vet checkup,was fostered by a kind lady with her own dog and rehomedsuccessfully. ‘Hapu’ – a German Shepherd cross pupfound living with labourers on a construction site, but he waswandering off each day and in danger of being shot as a stray,was adopted by a large construction contractor here in Muscatand is now the official guard dog with his own air-conditionedkennel! Then there’s ‘Skip’, successfully re-homed and nowliving in Brunei!‘Azaiba’ was found wandering the beaches of – you guessed it– Azaiba. He was cared for and is now a much-loved pet, with awonderful temperament, and is totally devoted to his owner.Of course, for every success story there are the sad stories ofWadi Dogs being cruelly treated. A small group of volunteershere in Muscat can only do so much to help the situation; soif you feel that you can offer a Wadi Dog a fresh start in lifethen do call the Animal Adoption and Fostering Hotline on95504302 or 95504303.14

MoviePublic Enemies‘Public Enemies’ is the 2009 release co-written and directed by Michael Mann, and set during the Great Depression.Starring the ever-menacing Christian Bale as Melvin Purvis, and the amusing Johnny Depp as John Dillinger – in a catand mouse game of good versus bad – the story is based on Bryan Burrough’s actual account of American gangsterviolence written in his book Public Enemies.The beautiful French actress Marion Cotillard offsets the machine guns and graphic violence with her role as Dillinger’ssweetheart. The movie however may have kept too true to the original tale, as the material just doesn’t seem to be thatworthy of blockbuster depiction. The special effects and gunfire is a little overdone. The general vibe of the movie is thattime was wasted on extended scenes of fighting and so character development suffers. It is still an interesting film, andas always, Depp delivers a great performance. Maybe this is one for the boys.New Year‘s EveCelebrationsParty away 2009 under the stars with our resident band “The Lighter Side”and toast 2010 at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Muscat this year with a tribute tothe king of pop “Michael Jackson”. Book now for a spectacular, sparklingNew Year Party in the hotel’s intimate pool gardens with dedicated waiterservice and enjoy a 3-course dinner with unlimited beverages.OMR 57 *net per person incl. 3-coursedinner with unlimited beverages* Avail 10% discount if booking a table of 10Radisson Blu HotelP.O.Box 939, P.C 133, Muscat, Sultanate of OmanFor reservations call 24487777 - ext: 3401reservations.muscat@radissonblu.comradissonblu.com/hotel-muscat

Wadi Bani AwfThe number of cars from the Emirates that we passed along the road throughWadi Bani Awf is proof of the fame that this stunning mountain stretch enjoys.Deep gorges and wadis are what these people have made the 400 kilometre drivefor, a pageantry of Mother Nature at its finest, and perhaps most dangerous. Itis important to know that this is not a trip for the fainthearted; there have beennumerous cases of cars slipping off the tight road, falling into the deep gorgesthat track the route, whilst others have been swept to their deaths during flashfloodswhich are notorious hazards to the area. If you drive along the slim pathsof Snake Gorge, then you must have a suitable four-wheel drive vehicle and thenecessary experience to handle the car.region, along with its infamous steep drops which lead onto caves and sleepyvillages, with their gushing rivers and pools from the abundant rainwater thatWadi Bani Awf sees, depending on the season. The rock formations that line thewadi are also of interest, with multicoloured rock sediments and covesin the rock face highlighting the rich geological history ofthe region; and the close relationship that water andtectonic forces have played in shaping thismountain range.Those who trek through this stunning wadi should not undertakewalks alone, or without an experienced guide and essentialequipment. However, despite the risks, those who areeligible for the journey should not miss the panoramason offer here, along with its fairly challengingdrive along the way. Rugged terrainwith scatterings of greeneryand oasis groves arewhat denote this

How to Get ThereTake the road from Muscat to Barka then follow the road to Rustaq.Approximately 15km before Rustaq there is a signpost on the leftto Wadi Bani Awf, take this and get ready to explore.GPSN23°20’31.56”E57°29’35.16”17Photography by Jerzy Wierzbicki

Paperless OmanPaul McLoughlinThere is nothing more telling that we are living in a global and technological age, than theinvention of eOman. It has been cited as a revolution in technology. It will change howgovernments, businesses and individuals interact, making transactions of all kinds, easierand more efficient. The website describes itself as a “civic-centered, multi-channel servicedelivery model, which provides a high level of operational efficiency as well as a high levelof political return in terms of transitioning Oman towards becoming a digital society.” Withsuch emphasis on technological and technical conundrums, eGovernance will improve lifefor the average Omani.Oman is stated as having an Internet penetration rate of 13.6 percent of the population.As the third lowest in the Middle East, it is a level that will undoubtedly change, and thisprogramme may very well ignite that change.Dr. Salim Bin Sultan Al Ruzaiqi is the CEO of the Information Technology Authority (ITA), anauthority which has been instrumental in the advancement in digital communication andsupport with eOman, the brand pushing forward eGovernance. In Oman, we have a digitalliteracy programme to provide community training for everyone in the government. Thisprogramme will see computer centres set up across the country, from Sohar to Salalah,with new centres in the pipeline. This will not also help to bridge the gap between Omanand other advanced countries, but also “be a point of gathering for young people, so peoplewill have a point for training. It will also help in fostering an entrepreneurial spirit – we wantyoung people not just to look for jobs, but to start businesses.”These are the hopes for the campaign, to see the same synergybetween government and the people. In countries like Scandinavia,where similar schemes are in place, businesses has benefited fromdecreases in red-tape and an increase in openness and efficiencywhen dealing with the government. This is how eOman hopes tooperate; to not only generate an ease of business between theprivate and public sectors, but also to embolden the business ethicof young Omanis. “We want young people to help create more jobs.This is the vision.” Dr. Salim summarises.This ‘vision’, he says is “20/20” – clear, concise and targeted – andeOman’s aim is to provide coverage for all Omanis, not matter whoand where they are, and what their computer literacy skills may be.Simply put, it’s an effort “to provide services for all” as Dr. Salimsuccinctly emphasises. To tackle such a wide area, he says thateOman will concentrate on three important pillars; Omanisation,diversification of the economy and privatisation – all carried out“to see that the people benefit”, including “releasing electricitycorporations to the private sector.” There will be an emphasis oncreating a stronger bond between the public and private sector,although the inevitable paradigm would be to shift independence,responsibility and self-sufficiency onto the company – as has been18

evident in other areas were eGovernance has been successful.However, the flipside is that eGovernment projects have proven tobe hugely efficient in increasing communication in Europe, wherered tape and queues in ministries and governmental offices arewell on the way to being eradicated. In Oman this will be achievedthrough the ePortal (www.oman.om) and the e-Payment gateway,which will ultimately mean that all fines, bills and governmentalservices will be able to be paid directly through the internet.The ePortal does carry more far-reaching implications providing allin-oneintegrated services which will provide citizens with directlinks to the government, with “a telephone link, so you can sendcomments [on governmental services] through different forms... itbecomes very easy for people to speak their mind and provide theirfeedback to the government.” In the social-democratic countriesof Europe, this has been viewed as a major breakthrough in thetransparency of government, with citizens able to access informationon the government with relative ease. Others have been disquieted19

y this increasing encroachment of the government on the public and private sphere, but mostof those ‘in-the-know’ trust that eGovernment will simply ease relations between citizens, theprivate and public sectors. Dr. Salim states, “The whole effect of the eGovernment strategy ispositive. It is changing the way people interact with the government and creating new jobs –opening up more possibilities for business.”As I write this, a little further down the road is another government initiative aimed at linkingthe people much in the same way as eOman hopes to. The bridges and highways beingconstructed are a visible sign of progress and hope for the people outside the capital, linkingAs-Seeb and Muscat with the not so distant city of Sur, which should benefit both citieswith increased lines of travel and communication. Such a move will carry an obvious shiftin parameters, as opportunities of enterprise are no longer restricted to the capital and thisspeedy highway will provide a free-flow link of ideas, visitors and commerce – it is in effect,the democratisation of the economy. This is what eOman hopes to achieve, but on a muchlarger scale, and if successful it will be nothing short of a revolution of societal and economicstructures – and it will be the younger generations who will be entrusted with carrying thismicro seismic shakeup in how business is being done in the Sultanate.This will begin at school, with comprehensive education programmes for pupils on informationtechnology with skills that can be carried through to university level and into the workplace.This will include an education portal in cohesion with the Ministry of Education that will “bea way of integrating pupils, teachers and pupils.” For the first time, parents will be able toexamine information of their children’s studies and progress through school, it will increaseinteraction between pupil and teacher, and even inform parents by text message when pupilsare consistently absent. It is an ‘education through education’ for pupils, teachers and parents– and – “This is just the beginning,” he says. “These young people will eventually be teachingso they must receive the full benefits from this scheme.”Dr. Salim places huge importance on the boundless opportunities that should open up foryoung people with eOman. “Young Omanis have a lot of opportunities now. With His MajestySultan Qaboos bin Said’s mission, if young people work hard and take their studies seriouslythen there is nothing that they can’t achieve. There is nothing hindering them!” Again hementions the importance of youngsters starting up their own enterprises, rather than beingshackled to the confinements of state employment. It is a wise move, as economies acrossthe world begin to diversify, it is often young people who provide the necessary dynamism tosee new sectors of the economy coming into fruition. Think of Red Bull, lastminute.com andGoogle – all started up by young kids with a vision, resulting in whole sectors blossoming, withcountless jobs created in the process.With vast amounts of public finances directed at young people through education and otherschemes, Dr. Salim hopes that this invigorating and trusting approach towards the youngpeople of Oman will produce a mature and compassionate approach to business from itsyoung citizens and reinforce civic responsibilities, creating employment and wealth for thepublic in the process. After all, this technological revolution will only happen if our youngstersnot only value their own community but in turn become world citizens themselves – and thisworks both ways – as fresh graduates learn and employ knowledge gathered from the outsideworld. This applies particularly to regional neighbours, “As part of the GCC we want to benefittogether. We found a lot of experience in these countries. The GCC Portal will enable people tocheck the progress of the GCC countries against their own”.20

Photography by Jerzy Wierzbicki

The King is dead,Long live the KingYahia Lababidi‘Michael Jackson’s appeal was, and remains,universal – irrespective of barriers of generation,genre, or ethnicity. African-Americans admirers,however, credit him with paving the wayfor Black heroes well beyond the sphere of music.’As the ripples of media furore over Michael Jackson’s death begin to subside, we thoughtthis would be a fitting time to take a sober, yet intense look at the life and legend of oneof the most inspirational pop icons in musical history. This passionate and fitting epitaphto Jackson’s life, highlights both the pioneering musical and social impact of the singer’scareer, along with the lasting legacies that Michael Jackson leaves behind for future artiststo emulate – and to avoid.As an artist, Jackson had broken so many records and received so many accolades overthe decades – “Thriller” being the biggest selling album of all time, with over 100 millioncopies sold worldwide, in addition to 13 Grammys to his name – that we may have growndesensitised to his tremendous impact on the music business. In the early eighties, whenMTV was just getting started and musical videos were a nascent art form, Jackson alreadysaw the possibilities inherent in this new medium and dared to cross boundaries.If others have conveniently forgotten this, Jackson did not. In an interview he gave Ebonymagazine two years ago, he remembers the early days when MTV turned down Billie Jeanbecause they “don’t play Black artists.” He refused to be ignored and, of course, when heeventually got them to play it, it set a record. After that, not only were they asking him foreverything he had, but he paved the way for Prince and other Black artists to come along.By turning music videos into a mini movie, and capitalising on this heady cultural moment,Jackson launched himself into the public consciousness in an unprecedented manner.Moreover, because he was so fluid, and indeterminate in many ways – black/white, adult/child, rock/pop – he was embraced by all and went on to become an international, cross-22

over artist. Instinctively, Jackson recognised the power of song and dance totranscend all boundaries and wordlessly communicate joy. Thus, Jackson’sappeal was, and remains, universal – irrespective of barriers of generation,genre, or ethnicity. African-American admirers, however, credit him with pavingthe way for Black heroes well beyond the sphere of music.“[Michael] stared at me very intensely and he stated with an almost calmcertainty, “I am afraid that I am going to end up like him, the way he did.” Ipromptly tried to deter him from the idea, at which point he just shrugged hisshoulders and nodded almost matter of fact as if to let me know, he knew whathe knew and that was kind of that.”Measure of the man in fullEven as a child prodigy Jackson seems to have had inklings of his Destiny,with his eyes set on his place in musical history since his teens. To secure hisgrand ambitions, he studied the entertainment greats – James Brown, FredAstaire, Charlie Chaplin, Barnum Bailey – seeking to distill their essences, andsometimes emulate their lives or even surpass their performances.In the same Ebony magazine interview of 2007, Jackson goes so far as to likenhis ambition to that of Michelangelo, saying: “I know the creator will go, but hiswork survives. That is why to escape death, I attempt to bind my soul to mywork… And that’s how I feel. I give my all to my work. I want it to just live.”Sculpting his career and mystique as painstakingly as his signature dancemoves, the student of the greats graduated into a Master, and pulled offthe spiritual stunt of escaping death and binding his soul to his work. As wecontemplate this extraordinary life, we can now better appreciate the personalcost of his great talent and the isolating pressures of such fame.He knew he couldn’t lastWhether it was out of a sense of premonition –the flip side of his sense of beingfated as a child or a veiled death wish (due to overwhelming suffering), MichaelJackson knew he could not last. Breaking her silence shortly after Jackson’sdeath, ex-wife Lisa Marie Presley recounted a chilling conversation she’d hadwith Michael years ago. While discussing her father’s death,Terrible as it is to consider, Michael Jackson’s untimely death has secured hisimmortality in a way that no long and happy life could have. For one thing,Jackson’s obsession with his appearance and youth, made it improbable thathe would have aged gracefully or found peace in a reduced body. True, at thetime of his death, he had sold 750,000 tickets in a matter of minutes for hisfinal live shows (presciently called: This Is It). But, also of note, when the10 London shows he’d originally signed on for where bumped up to 50, hewas visibly vexed and expressed fear for his health. Speaking to fans outsiderehearsals, Jackson reportedly said:“I don’t know how I’m going to do 50 shows… I’m not a big eater – I need to putsome weight on.” (In an effort to bulk up, Jackson hired as his personal trainer,Lou Ferrigno, the star of the 1970’s TV hit ‘The Incredible Hulk’.)Perhaps, in the final equation, the strain proved too great for his already frayednerves and dwindling health. Ever the perfectionist, and constantly seekingto outdo himself and break his own records, it is also unlikely that Jackson at50 would have performed to his own jaw-dropping expectations, or those offans who remember the ‘Thriller’ from decades earlier. In dying when he did,Jackson achieved his impossible wish of being ‘Frozen in Time’, ageless anddeathless. Michael Jackson now partakes of the unearthly aura and eternalglamour of icons-gone-too-soon. In this haloed pantheon of prematurelydepartedstars, he lives forever in the public imagination: gracefully mid-leap,with his possibilities unexhausted and inexhaustible.

Penning Your DreamsKarima FaridOmani novelist Ali Saif Al-Rawahi, won the first place prizein a competition in February 2009, organised by the OmanLiterary Society, for his novel ‘Jawaher’. He believes that life isfull of surprises, because very rarely does anything happen asplanned; the fact that he is still patiently waiting for his book tobe published as promised, is case in point.There was an unmistaken glint in his eyes, and the tone of hisvoice seemed to reflect anguish, expressing a dynamic climb upthe ladder of literature. But even still, I sensed a hint of distress,which has been keeping him away from taking each stride withan open mind and optimism. This I believe, without doubt, issecretly pulling him towards tones of disappointment as heclearly and passionately tries to follow his dream. [Ed: DanielleKarima Steel?]Ali, a sprightly 26-year-old talented Omani, is an employeeworking in customer service for a local bank. Like most youngOmanis, especially nowadays, he is trying to balance betweenworking to support himself and his academic pursuits. He iscurrently completing his third year, majoring in literature at Al-Bayan College.Being in a government school, Ali developed his English bywatching English movies, and reading as many books as he couldget his hands on. He adds, “I had a good English foundationfrom school at kindergarten, but from there on, I was practicallyself-taught. Reading brought out my potential, especially at thatcritical age; I knew what I wanted to really do is write.” Back inhigh school, Ali decided that he wanted to be a doctor, but due tothe challenges faced in Oman, like getting into Medical School,he turned to a tourism college. He then wrote his very first shortstory at the age of 18.Things did not stop there, his passion for writing grew - he keptchallenging himself by entering various local competitions.He took third place in a short story writing competition, thenparticipated in local poetry meetings; his latest achievementfinally gave him the confidence and a new positive attitudetowards fulfilling his dreams.Ali gets his ideas for novels in the comfort of his room, tuckedaway in his family’s home. It tends to get a bit too noisy at times,but he manages to rise above the commotion and explains thathe is not easily distracted. The motivation behind writing andparticipating in the competition he recently won was to seehis work published, and though this is yet to be achieved, Aliadmits, “I didn’t even think I would win, it all happened sofast I was thrilled; writing a novel can be the hardest thing.All my work is usually done on the laptop, but sometimeswhen I have sudden ideas about another chapter, or justa random thought, that is when a book and pen come inhandy. A good cup of coffee is usually what I start my daywith.”For now, Ali is looking forward to graduation and findinghis dream job. He says: “My dream job would be one thatpays well, demands me to travel, and also to write the wholetime. So I would love to write and travel all the time!”Clearly, his passion for literature is undeniable, and hisfavourite book is an English translated version of ‘Hunger’by Knut Hamson, about a young writer who strugglesthroughout life and gives his all when it comes to writing.He advises everyone who wishes to write to read, readagain, and then read some more; because this brings outpotential that might otherwise be hidden away. He explainsthat everyone needs to express themselves in some way,and that writers will not just have the ability to write, but beavid readers too. Luckily for Ali, he is a master at both.JawaherJawaher, as the author explains, “is a novel inside a novel”.It tells the story of a truck driver whose dream to be asuccessful writer takes him on an extraordinary journey intothe desert, where he pens the tale of Jawaher; the story ofa lonely girl – who runs away from home and her familyin a desperate attempt to escape the shackles of a forcedmarriage.The driver, treading his way through the desert, makesan unexpected acquaintance with a Bedouin girl namedWadha, who mysteriously disappears. It is a story of misery,broken dreams and the twisted tale of love that eventuallybrings hearts together from lives which were torn apart.Jawaher’s brother, who initially sets out in search of her,ends up learning more about himself, embarking on aspiritual journey of self-discovery.24

Visions of the futureAli Saif Al-RawahiThe moonlight wakes up your soulIn a clear quiet nightAscending sunwardThe secret of the universe is about to beRevealedInsomniac stars envelopes your prospectsSending glimpses of foretellingInto your wakening spiritThe night doesn’t sleepIt guards the half-sleeping liliesFrom devilish dreamsFairly-like creatures colour the grey nightWith dreamy dewWhich is calmer, your silent beautyThat lives on your face with graceOr that lake next to your palace?What is greater than your smiling dreams?Is it existence or the love you carry for your nature?Dreams seek their haven in your heartSo please, don’t wake up26

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HOME ALONEPenny DestroTips for first-time mumsIt doesn’t matter what anyone tells you or how much preparation you’ve made, nothingquite prepares you for the life-changing impact of the arrival of your first baby. You mayhave previously nurtured a younger sibling or a favourite pet, but siblings also have parents– and pets can be left alone for hours with a few biscuits, a bowl of water and a rubbertoy. Babies, on the other hand, need you constantly, 24/7. From the moment they’re born,the full meaning of the word begins to dawn: you are no longer a separate entity – becauseyou are now someone’s mother. And you will be worrying about this little scrap until theday you die.It’s some time since I had my first, but with the arrival of my friend’s baby daughter, all theanxieties and pitfalls just waiting befall the bemused first-time mum came flooding backto me.Katharine Mary weighed in at a healthy 3.6kgs on November 9th to the delight of herparents Fiona and Gerry Armour. Luckily Fiona has many friends who rallied round to giveher plenty of good advice; so thanks to Sarah & Co for the following homilies, some of whichcould have come from my grandma – but others are definitely a revelation!Having recently toured Muscat’s manybaby boutiques, I’m amazed at some ofthe innovations available – though I stillthink disposable nappies/diapers are thebiggest boon of all. For me it was terrytowelling squares with inadequate paperliners, a bottomless bucket of bleach and awashing machine constantly on the go. Afew years back I was asked to investigatethe ‘disposable versus terries’ argumentand discovered that despite the apparenthigh cost of disposables, by the time you’vebought terries and factored in the energycosts plus soap powder, conditioner, linersetc, disposables are actually cheaper –even if much of them take centuries tobiodegrade.28

Developing a stress free life…Anyhow, you’ve produced your child, queened it over visitorsand been feted by all and sundry. Now you are home alone –except you’re not alone are you? You have full responsibilityfor the wellbeing of a tiny, helpless person who can onlycommunicate in a language you don’t understand. It’s dauntingto say the least - but hopefully some of these tips will help you,too:• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Many seasoned mums love being aroundnewborn babies and won’t feel you’re taking advantage if you ask foradvice.• Breastfeed for two years. (Favourite tip from an Omani lady – not quite sopopular with Westerners).• Express milk and let Daddy do the night-time feed (“Yeah, right!” - commentfrom every mother in the room)• Prevent nappy rash by letting baby have a time without a nappy (NB Babywill always take advantage of the freedom, so be prepared!).• If nappy rash occurs, treat it with Sudocreme (Did you know it’s standardequipment for commando units?)• Always have a muslin square handy – they’re great for mopping up.Everything.• Muslin squares are also handy to put under your infant’s head in a cot orpram – they’re easier to change than an entire sheet.• Dummies/pacifiers are good news! They help to keep airways clear, arebetter for the teeth than thumb-sucking – and help mummy and daddy toget a good night’s sleep.• Baby baths are best used by putting them into a big bath – the taps arehandy, the drain is handy – and new mums can support their strained abs byleaning on the side. Better still, the kitchen sink is a sensible height – and youhave a handy draining board.• Scratch mitts – a great idea for preventing baby from scratching her face,but they never stay on. So use socks – the elasticated cuff stops them fromfalling off.• Babies’ nails are very difficult to cut. Just bite them offafter baby’s bath. (Ooh!) Or wait until she’s asleep andcut them with special scissors.• Swaddle (wrap them tightly), it makes young babies feelsecure and can calm them down.• Routine – may sound old fashioned (and yes, it’s my ownfavourite!) but knowing what to expect, and eventually,what is expected of them, also makes a baby (or child)feel secure. It instils confidence – and a confident child is(usually) a happy child. Establishing bedtime in particularis important from a very early age. This assures time foryou as parents while ensuring your child gets a decentnight’s sleep. Tired children are miserable children.• If you are suffering from sleepless nights, sleep whenbaby sleeps – housework can wait, and a dusty dressernever hurt anyone. Baby clothes don’t have to be ironed– just make sure they’re not damp.• And finally, listen to your mum – she really does knowbest!Baby boons:• Pre-sterilised disposable baby bottles• Food in tubes- no mess, great for travelling• Infacol – excellent for colic• Rear-view mirror so you can see baby while driving• Mozzie cribs – tiny net tents that protects baby frommosquitoes• Medicine dispenser – it’s a dummy with a reservoir• Forehead temperature strips – no need for uncomfortableintrusions• Burp cloths – specially designed and shaped to fit overyour shoulder29

Ask the Ladies!Karima FaridAlma Villanueva(Filipina)Sabra Al-Rahbi(Omani)Georgette Srouji(Jordanian)Asma Sarih(Moroccan)“I love my moisturiser,and frankly I never wantto change it becauseit is the only brand Itested.”Avon Moisturiser,Avon’s unique ‘DirectSelling’ system providesa personal service forcustomers to purchaseproducts from thecomfort and privacy oftheir own homes.For more details contact24830148/24831050or email toavon@mhd.co.omWell, in this year 2009,I got addicted to myblusher! And the bestpart is, I don’t need to goanywhere to buy it, theproducts come directlyto me!” For more detailson Avon blush, contact24830148/24831050or email toavon@mhd.co.om“I absolutely love theeffect it has on myeyelashes.” NiveaMascara, can be found inall major supermarkets.“It has to be myfoundation, because itcovers up the way I wantit to, and also evens outthe skin tone.” All Diorproducts can be foundat both Seeb City Centreand Qurum City Centre.30

What is the most important health or beauty product that you used in 2009,and you absolutely cannot live without?! And why?Darle Minon(Filipina)Victoria Haslam(German)Nada Ibrahim(Omani)Navneet Kaur(Indian)“I use it because it“I can’t live without it,“For me, I absolutely“Well, when it comes tois really good on mybecause I don’t likecannot live without mymoisturisers, this oneskin, and this foamingdry lips!” Labello – Suneveryday hand cream,is really light and soft.”lotion is great!” ForProtect; It can be foundand that is because itNivea moisturiser canmore details on Avonin any supermarket andis good and it keeps mybe found in all majorfoaming lotion contactmany pharmacies inhands smooth in thissupermarkets.24830148/24831050Oman.weather. Nivea Handor email toCream, it can be foundavon@mhd.co.omin any supermarket andmany pharmacies inOman.

Kiran Jay HaslamSo it’s farewell to ‘oh-nine’ and onwards to ‘oh-ten’. The year has seen some extraordinary technology making its way into our homes – affordablestuff – that probably started life on a white board in some meeting room at a NASA facility in the mid-80s. Most notable perhaps is the far-reachingtouch sensitivity of Apple’s iPhone and iTouch. We’ll be bringing you a lot more interesting gadets and gizmos in 2010, but for now, here are somereally great items that made it out in 2009.Fuse conceptcellphoneSynaptics Incorporated brings us the Fuse conceptwith multiple interface technology including aproximity sensor, 3D graphics, haptic feedback andmulti-touch capacity sensing. The Fuse will featuregroundbreaking technology to enable quick andsingle-handed navigation without obstructing yourview of the display screen.CastovenNow you can watchyour favourite YouTubevideo in your kitchen,whilst waiting for themicrowave to zap yourdinner. This conceptdesign by two Keio Universityresearchers features a 10.4 inchLCD screen and plays YouTubevideos whilst the microwave is inuse.Tablet PCThis concept design is in its final stages and willbe available in the market soon. Stantum is thefirst company to remove the traditional keyboardinterface and launch a touch tablet PC. The multitouchscreen acts on finger pressure and can handle10 touch operations at a time. It supports Windows7 and comes with a 10-inch screen.Mechanical MobileRussian Designer Mikhail Stawsky created the mechanical phone,which charges when you spin it around on your finger. As soon as yourbattery runs low, give it a quick spin and whizzz!… your phone is readyto make that important call. Having a low battery will no longer be anexcuse to not return calls!32

ROCK YOUR B’AUDIPop star Justin Timberlake has been caught by spy photographersduring filming of Audi’s new A1 vehicle advertising campaign.Timberlake was recently announced the Audi A1 Ambassador, andthanks to these spy shots we can see he is heavily featured in thecampaign. Better yet we can see the A1, with its unique headlightdesign and angular grille, thefront end doesn’t so muchsmile “eee” as ask “oh?”The unveiling is set forGeneva next year, and it is unlikely that Audi will enter the Americanor Middle-East market with this model, however with the successof BMW’s MINI in the region, things may change!A8 Sat-NanA LION GOES “ROAR”,A GT3 RS GOES “Röhrl!”There are a handful of truly gifted drivers out there. Let’s see, MichaelSchumacher, Ari Vatanen, Lewis Hamilton, Me… oh and Walter Röhrl.Walter has been pushing Porsches well beyond their limit for manyyears now, and adds his touch on every beast the carmaker haslaunched in the market since the 993. Prior to that, he set the Rallyworld on fire in his Audi Quattro.Staying in Ingolstadt, one more ‘nifty’ thing has just emerged fromthe Audi camp, the first ever vehicle to feature a ‘Google Earth-Based Navigation System’. Yes, indeed the 2011 A8 will have whathas been referred to as the ‘Multimedia Interface (MMI) navigationplus’.An integrated hard disk covers your phone, navigation, audio data,and a graphics processor that delivers high quality 3D images.UMTS will be launched in 2010 for A8 owners to benefit fromfast data transfer speeds and the ability to stream voice and dataconnections simultaneously. Google Earth’s worldwide database ofdestination photographs, information, and 3D topography is at yourfingertips, and all you need is your existing SIM card. No addedcosts or services other than that of your regular service provider.62 year-old Röhrl, a two-times world rally champion, will compete inthe 2010 Nürburgring 24 hour race in a GT3 RS. The calm and casualGerman from Regensburg said, “No other road-going 911 has everbeen as close to a race car as this current GT3 RS. That’s why I’mthrilled to be able to prove that this sports car is up to the challenge ofthe 24 hour race.”Yep, it’s time to Rock and Röhrl.36

SIT GODZILLA, SIT! …GOOD MONSTER.So it seems Nissanwill indeed tame thebeast. The legendaryGT-R will go green. YeahI know, I can already hearyou saying, “TheJapanese fantasymonster from thedepths of the seais already green,” but no, notin that way the Eco-friendly andelectric way!It seems the head honchos at Nissanwant to see their flagship supercar’sV6 3.8-litre mated to an electric drivepowertrain from the Infiniti Essence Concept car. The combined power of this creation would sit somewhere around 600hp, withthe electric side responsible for 118hp of that mind-blowing figure. Expect 25-30 mpg and a whopping price tag. I think we aregoing to see a lot more manufacturers selecting their top shelf, sporting road rockets to go hybrid in the not too distant future.BMW Z4 GT3What you are looking at is not the new BMW Z4 GT3. But rest assured as soon as we can get our hands on some images, we’ll show you whatthis little monster looks like.A creation of the Bavarian carmaker’s Motorsport Division, the Z4 GT3 will go head to head with Ferraris, Porsches, Audis and Nissans in the FIAGT3 European Championship, the International GT Open, and the ADAC GT Masters.To get a Z4 to match the pace of the GT3 league, BMW took the 4.0-litre V8 engine from an M3, upgraded the ECU and control unit and re-chippedthe unit to 480 bee-haitch-pee. All the other features of a GT3 racer are included. Sequential transmission, reduced weight, rollcage, monsterbrakes and centre locking lightweight rims. European drivers can expect to shell out RO164,000 for the new Z4 GT3 racer. Wow!37

Schumacher Back in F1Clint Derric EgbertPedal to the Metal in TenseOmani Rally FinalRally drivers Khalil Abdullah Soomar Al Zadjali and co-driver TahaSaid Shaban Al Zadjali raced into third place in the final round of theOman Rally Championship 2009 on December 18th with 29 pointsunder their belt. Clocking in at 56 minutes and 45 seconds, anidentical timing to second place winners Ibrahim Salim Mohammedal Abri and Salim Shaikhan Zaher al Abri, Khalil and Taha, the pairstill fell short of the required five points putting them in a respectablethird spot. Both teams followed in 5 minutes and 32 seconds behindwinners Nasser Saadon Al Kuwari and Naif Khalfan MohammedAl Obaidani, who dominated for most of the race in their SubaruImpreza.Finally, it’s official. German racing legend, Michael Schumacher,who really requires no introduction, has signed a three-year dealwith Mercedes on December 23rd, a date marking hismuch-awaited return to the sport that has adored himfor so long. Set to partner with Nico Rosberg in theMercedes powered Brawn F1 car, the seven-timeFormula 1 champion claims that he is ‘ready forsome serious stuff’ and that after three years ofretirement he now has his energy back and is in tip-top shape. “The only reason I cameback was because of old friends at Mercedes. I spent years trying to get into F1 withMercedes but it wasn’t possible before. I hope I’ll be judged by what I’ve done before butMercedes is a strong partner and I’m thrilled to be back,” said Schumacher.So, let’s recap. Formula 1 was at its lowest ever point in 2009, with teams reluctant to signfor the next season and Bernie Ecclestone retreating from the spotlight to hide amidst fearsthe sport would splinter off into two groups. Group One – those content with Ecclestone’smoney making machine, that made the fine art of racing a circus; and Group Two – thosewho want to take the sport back to driver theatrics and a rule book that is not ‘whimsical’.So, Schumey takes a pay cut – of about 50 million Euros, if you consider his gross earningsof 2004 – and low and behold his return to racing makes the sport, once again, the mosttalked about and watched sporting event on the planet. Bahraini hotels probably just raisedtheir March 2010 room rates by 50 percent and you can expect merchandising to be onsale as of… well, now!I suspect that the once ‘spare parts salesman’ Ecclestone, will be writing a private cheque– made out to Michael Schumacher – for a heck of a lot more than his Brawn Racing salary,along with a thank you note saying “Cheers Gov’nor, come ‘round for a trough and I’ll getthe ‘ole trouble and strife’ to whip up us something pukka.”Fifth Championship a KnockoutThe 5th Oman Open Taekwondo Championshipsrecently held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complexwas simply awesome. Organised by the Ministryof Sports Affairs and the Oman TaekwondoCommittee (OTC), the championship this yearwas well structured, allowing only 17-year-oldsto compete, unlike previous years.The event saw 66 male fighters participate in seven weight categories and 10 women infour categories, in a knockout system. Matches were judged under the watchful eye ofMaster Yoo Ji-Won from Korea, Abdul Ilah Almuweina from Saudi Arabia and MohammedMohammed Issaq from the UAE.Victors received medals from the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea – Cho Sung-Hwan,and President of the Oman Taekwondo Committee – Brigadier Ali Al Sinani; a great closeto an action-packed evening. Lookout for the next Taekwondo championships scheduled totake place in March next year.5th Oman Open TaekwondoChampionships ResultsMen’s Gold Medal (Black belt)Harith Said al Gheithy (Professional Club) in 54 kgMohammed Sultan (Challenge Club) in 58 kgHaitham Al Naamani (Professional Club) in 63 kgKhalid Zaher Al Mahrooqi (Professional Club) in 68 kgSalim Mubarak Al Badri (Seeb Club) in 73 kgNasser Abdullah (Royal Oman Police) in 80 kgSuhail Nasser (Royal Oman Police) in +80kg.Women’s Gold Medal (Black belt)Samah Othman (Challenge Club)Group Competition1st place – Professional Club2nd place – Challenge Club3rd place – Seeb Club38

Messi Best in the World?Lionel Messi cleaned up at the19th FIFA World Player Galaheld at the Kongresshaus onDecember 21st, as he pickedup his first FIFA World Player ofthe Year title. The 22-year-oldhas been a driving force for theBarcelona side, helping them winthe Club World Cup last week,their sixth trophy this year. Othercontenders for the spot includedCristiano Ronaldo, Xavi, Kaka andAndres Iniesta, all of whom hadto make way for the new risingstar; the first ever Argentine towin the award.Hughes Feeling BlueAfter DismissalIt was a bitter and controversial end to a fantastic journey forManchester City Manager, Mark Hughes, or should I say ex-Manager, who was sacked immediately after the team’s exhilarating4-3 victory over Sunderland.Compared to football legend and now Argentina’s Manager, Diego Maradona, in terms ofhis style and skills, Messi’s growth in the sport has been quick. Taking to the game at avery young age, the Argentine was soon picked-up by Barca, making him the youngestfootballer to play in a league match. It wasn’t long before Messi scaled the ladder receivinga Ballon d’Or, FIFA World Player of the Year nomination and an Olympic gold medal, withthe Argentina football team.Shocked? Well, it couldn’t be as shocking as it was for Hughes, whoclaims that he had no clue he was going to be dismissed until thefinal whistle. “Notwithstanding media coverage to the contrary, Iwas given no forewarning as to the club’s decision. The speed withwhich my successor’s appointment was announced suggests theclub made its decision some time ago,” he stated.Messi, ever modest, responded to the prize by saying, “No, please, I am not king of theworld now, nor the number one, I don’t believe in those things. I am the same person asalways and I have the good fortune to play in a great team. It was a historic year for Barcaand for me, but it’s thanks to the work of everyone.”Fame, fortune and humility – signs of a great sportsman, something that Messi hasundoubtedly proved himself to be.Hughes, upset with his sudden dismissalvented his feelings saying, “I amextremely disappointed not to have beengiven the opportunity to see through myplans at the club. At the beginning ofthe season, I sat down with the ownersand it was agreed that a realistic targetfor the season would be sixth place inthe Premier League, or in the region of 70 points. All of this wascommunicated to the players and we all knew where we stood.While everyone at the club would obviously have wanted to see morewins, we were absolutely on target at the time of my dismissal. Iam very proud of the fact that I steered the club through the mostsignificant period of change in its history.”His replacement is Italian, Roberto Mancini, who was approachedtwo weeks before Hughes’ departure, which has cast shadows overthe transparency and intentions of Manchester City’s new owner,Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al-Nahyan. The move has angered manyCity fans who see Mancini as a “glamour” acquisition, as are theplayers, who are said to be supporting Mark Hughes. Some playersare threatening to leave because of his dismissal. Over the nextcouple of weeks, there looks set to be more developments to thiscolourful football story. Manchester City is currently in a respectablesixth position in the Premiership.39

KFWS • MindGNovembPlace a number in the empty boxes in such a way that eachrow across, each column down and each small 9-box squarecontains all of the numbers from one to nine.The idea of Go Figure is to arrive at the figures given at thebottom and right-hand columns of the diagram by followingthe arithmetic signs in the order they are given (that is, formleft to right and top to bottom). Use only the numbers belowthe diagram to complete its blank squares and use each ofthe nine numbers only once.40

HOROSCOPES Amira K.LEOVIRGOCANCERARIESYou’re a lucky one Leo. It seemslike you always get away withalmost everything. But that isonly because you have the bestintentions. Get back on yourtreadmill whenever you havethe chance. Stay healthy.Money may be a scarcecommodity for you this week,but that doesn’t mean you can’thave fun! New Year is around thecorner so make sure you planyour ‘night out’ quick, becausebefore you know it, you mighthave to spend it at home!KFWS • MindGymNovember 9, 2009This might not be the best timeto add onto your investments,because it is after all, the endof the year. Wait for the nextopportunity; hopefully 2010will work well for you. Any NewYear plans? Your loved ones arecounting on you.This is the time for change,whether it is taking up a newactivity, or even just calling upthose old friends you have beentoo busy to call for a while. Theweather is beautiful, long walksin the park or on the beach canhelp to clear your mind.GEMINIAQUARIUSTAURUSSCORPIOCertain people need you to givethem unconditional love, notjust this week, but for the restof your life. Life is looking good,the heavens are smiling down onyou, so to keep it that way, keepsmiling back.PISCESAny troubles you have beensensing are finally over. You areentitled to go on a vacation, sowhy not just take it? You deserveit, go ahead and enjoy, becauseyour next holiday might only besome time to come.Aren’t you looking forward tothe year 2010? The countdownbegins, and wherever you are,you need to remember that youare surrounded by people whocare about you! Relax, let go andsimply enjoy.LIBRAThe reason why you are alwaysbroke is because you are far toogenerous, so try cutting downthe amount you spend on otherpeople. You are working as hardas is possible, so try to spendsome time on yourself.The moment of truth isapproaching, you need to makethat decision that you have beenavoiding all year long. A couple ofmore days won’t do any harm, butdecisions must be made. Goodluck!CAPRICORNAny opportunities that comealong for you within the nextweek should be taken seriously.Maybe you haven’t consideredworking or studying abroad, butthe change of venue could bevery good for you.KFWS • MindGymNovember 23, 2009A change of heart is what youneed, so you can begin to feelbetter about yourself. Life isnot simple because humans likethings to be complicated. Ignorethose who are bothering you,or just put them in their place,once and for all.SAGITTARIUSIt will be hard to get big ideasacross to other individuals thisweekend. Wait till the seasonhas changed and then you willreceive a good response. Youcan save yourself the trouble ifyou play it this way.SOLUTIONSCROSSWORDSUDOKUGO FIGUREKFWS • MindGymNovember 23, 2009

“Turbo and Ozone”Oman crews break out!

Pizza Express seems to bethe leader of the pack whenit comes to the communityand fun for kids. Theirfabolous Margarita KidsClub get together to makeChristmas special, withSanta, wonderful giftsand of course cookies,specially prepared by asworm of happy little elfs!THE ALTIMATE TEST OF ENDURANCE!Muscat City Centre

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