Community Community Ideal Indian Pakistani School team band Strings P6shines at P16 to perform the CBSE songs from National their latest Taekwondo 30 in Championship. Doha today.

Wednesday, January 9, 2019 Jumada I 3, 1440 AH

Doha today: 180 - 280

SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST: The front page of California’s oldest weekly, The Mountain Messenger’s, edition of July 21, 2011.

COVER Standing tall STORY Good news or bad, northern Sierra readers can always blame the Messenger. P4-5

BOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD

The Accidental a game changer A dip in views for Golden for political cinema: Producer. Globes from last year. Page 14 Page 15 2 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 5.00am Shorooq (sunrise) 6.21am Zuhr (noon) 11.41am Asr (afternoon) 2.41pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.03pm Isha (night) 6.33pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

K G F: Chapter 1 Gold Fields. The hero is brought up in poverty and later goes DIRECTION: Prashanth Neel to Mumbai to become a mafi a don. After being in Mumbai for CAST: Yash, Srinidhi Shetty, Ramachandra Raju some time, he returns. Will he be able to become a don? and Emergency 999 SYNOPSIS: Set in the early 80s, the fi lm centres the will he set his people free from the age old slavery? Worldwide Emergency Number 112 protagonist who leads a battle against oppressors in Kolar THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, Royal Plaza Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 International Calls Enquires 150 Hamad International Airport 40106666 Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Qatar Airways 44496000 Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050 Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333 Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369 Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Aquaman forward to lead his people and be a to the throne. With help from royal Qatar Airways 40253374 DIRECTION: James Wan hero to the world. With a vast army counselor Vulko, Aquaman must CAST: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, at his disposal, King Orm plans to retrieve the legendary Trident of Atlan Dolph Lundgren conquer the oceanic people and then and embrace his destiny as protector SYNOPSIS: Arthur Curry learns the surface world. Standing in his of the deep. that he is the heir to the underwater way is Aquaman, Orm’s half-human, THEATRES: The Mall, Landmark, kingdom of Atlantis, and must step half-Atlantean brother and true heir Royal Plaza ote Unquo Qu te “The aim The Mall Cinema Landmark Cinema (3): (1):Thattum Purath Achuthan Aquaman (2D) 2:30pm; of art is to represent (Malayalam) 2pm; Aquaman Simmba (Hindi) 5:15pm; K. G. not the outward appearance (2D) 4:30pm; Aurora (Tagalog) F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) 11:15pm. F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) 8:15pm; K. of things, but their inward 7pm; Simmba (Hindi) 8:45pm; Landmark Cinema (1): G. F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) 11pm. Aquaman (2D) 11:30pm. Thattum Purath Achuthan Royal Plaza Cinema Palace signifi cance.” The Mall Cinema (2): Mary (Malayalam) 3pm; Thomas (1): K. G. F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) — Aristotle Poppins Returns (2D) 2:30pm; And Friends: Big World! Big 2:30pm; Simmba (Hindi) NTR: Kathanayakudu (Telugu) Adventure! The Movie (2D) 5:15pm; K. G. F. : Chapter 5pm; NTR: Kathanayakudu 5:30pm; Simmba (Hindi) 1 (Hindi) 8:15pm; Simmba (Telugu) 8pm; NTR: 7:30pm; Aquaman (2D) (Hindi) 11pm. Kathanayakudu (Telugu) 10:30pm. Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Community Editor 11pm. Landmark Cinema (2): K. G. (2): Aquaman (2D) 2:30pm; The Mall Cinema (3): F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) 2:15pm; NTR: Kathanayakudu (Telugu) Kamran Rehmat Simmba (Hindi) 2pm; K. G. NTR: Kathanayakudu (Telugu) 5pm; NTR: Kathanayakudu e-mail: [email protected] F. : Chapter 1 (Hindi) 4:45pm; 5pm; NTR: Kathanayakudu (Telugu) 8pm; NTR: Telephone: 44466405 Bumblebee (2D) 7:30pm; (Telugu) 8pm; NTR: Kathanayakudu (Telugu) Fax: 44350474 Backtrace (2D) 9:30pm; K. G. Kathanayakudu (Telugu) 11pm. 11pm. Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

the Qatari marine tradition and introduces Doha Triathlon 2019 to students the meaning of Dasha, Al Qafal WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art and various type of pearls. The students WHEN: February 8 will discover all details of the Fath Al-Khair Doha Triathlon has opened registration journey. for its third edition. Those wishing to participate in the event can visit www. doha-triathlon.com to register in either the Olympic or Sprint which off ers registration for both individuals and team relays. Another choice is the Super Sprint which is only for individuals and open for both adults and kids aged between 13-15 years old. Also, a kids’ duathlon was introduced this year for two age groups 7-9 and 10-12 years old to allow all family members to enjoy the event.

Ballet Lessons WHERE: Music and Arts Atelier WHEN: Ongoing TIME: 4pm – 8pm For more info e-mail at registration@ atelierqatar.com or call on 33003839.

Arabic Calligraphy Workshop EVENTS through several family collections. It presents WHEN: Saturday – Wednesday selected items from previously unseen private TIME: 6pm Music Fest archives of photos, artefacts and documents Cycling: Losail Circuit Sports Club Arabic Calligraphy workshop is back. WHERE: QNCC to show the role that individuals within a WHERE: Losail Circuit Come and learn the artistic practice of Arabic WHEN: Today community can play in building its identity WHEN: Ongoing handwriting and calligraphy at Music and TIME: 7pm – 10pm and preserving its heritage and history. TIME: 5pm Arts Atelier. Strings are about to rock Doha with Losail Circuit Sports Club, in association The lessons will take place every Saturday, their nostalgic gigs and all the latest hits. with Qatar Sports For All Federation, invites Monday and Wednesday at 6pm. For Quratulain Balouch and Ali Sethi will be all cyclists, runners and walkers to train under more information, contact registration@ joining the pop band at Qatar National the fl oodlights of Losail International Circuit atelierqatar.com Convention Centre. every Wednesdays. After School Activities HEC Executive MBA Session WHERE: Atelier WHERE: Tornado Tower, West Bay WHEN: Ongoing WHEN: Today Music and arts activities for students TIME: 5pm – 6:30pm taking place after they fi nish their day in Learn more about this world-class school includes Group Music lessons, Hip- executive programme. Discover the hop, Ballet, Drawing and Painting, Drama international diversity of participants, Theatre & Taekwondo. Ages between 5 and 10 blended learning and international mobility years old after school hours. options. Find out how it will help you transform yourself and your career.

The Ilyas and Duck Show WHERE: Qatar National Library WHEN: January 11 Getting Started with Makey Makey TIME: 5pm – 6pm WHERE: Qatar National Library Meet Ilyas and Duck! Ilyas is a typical kid WHEN: January 19 The Colour Run with an insatiable appetite for questioning TIME: 4:30pm – 5:30pm WHERE: QNCC the world around him. Duck is fun-loving How can everyday objects be used to WHEN: January 26 and goofy, with a simple view of the world. control computers? In this session, you’ll TIME: 8:30am Together, this intrepid duo embarks on learn how you can use the Makey Makey Celebrate the hero in you in a realm exciting adventures that culminate in invention kit to turn ordinary objects into where nothing is impossible and you are profound realisations rooted in their Muslim computer keyboards. unstoppable. Soar to new heights in the identity. all-new Super Zone and suit up in gear fi t for Robotics Junior Course only the most super of heroes as you collect WHERE: Recreation Centre your medal at the Finish Line! 2019 will WHEN: January 19 also include the Foam Zone. Gates will open TIME: 1pm – 3pm at 7am on January 26, with our fi rst Color Children are invited to build their own Runners setting off at 8.30am. robot and make it move however they want. Hobby Classes It will be a fun chance for them to delve deep WHERE: Mystic Arts Centre behind Al into the world of robotics and explore how Hilal Focus Medical Centre computer programming and robot design can WHEN:Wednesday – Monday solve all kinds of problems. Mystic Art Centre, is a holistic performing arts institution and a one stop solution for Katara Beach - School Students adults as well as children looking to explore Archives Exhibition WHERE: Katara their talents in various art forms. We off er WHERE: Qatar National Library WHEN: Ongoing classes in Carnatic Music, Hindustani Music, WHEN: Ongoing till January 31 TIME: 9am – 12pm Karate, Yoga, Zumba, Classical Dance, Salsa, TIME: 8am – 8pm By participating in the programme of ‘Our Hip Hop, contemporary and dance The exhibition explores the history of Qatar culture is a school’, Katara Beach emphasises forms. For details, call 33897609.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY COVER STORY The 2-employee paper The editor-publisher of California’s oldest weekly newspaper hired its one other employee, Jill Tahija, after a two-question interview: “Can you type?” “Do you smoke?” She said yes to both. By Diana Marcum

HOLDING FORT: Editor-publisher Don Russell in the Mountain Messenger newsroom. The walls of the newsroom — where he simultaneously typed, smoked and readied the next day’s paper — are layered with newspaper clippings, mementos and nicotine.

he editor-publisher Russell covers school board the character. He’s so blunt and of California’s oldest meetings, federal land use and straightforward, but the funny weekly newspaper has everything else in Sierra and thing is he’ll come in with someone rules for his publication: Plumas counties — some of the on the same day he’s bad-mouthing No children on the most rural areas of California. His them,” said Patrick Shannon, 38, frontT page (“I loathe children”). tone ranges from head-shaking to who works in his mother’s cafe and He has a heart of No beauty pageants. No online fi nger-pointing outrage. as a handyman, emergency medical gold, but he’ll take presence. “As long as I’m running He has never been sued: “If I say technician and the town’s water it, it’s on pulp, period,” Don Russell it’s a fact, it’s a fact, damn it. I do meter reader. on anyone. He is said. my homework.” But there have been Debra Moore, managing editor The Mountain Messenger a couple of times an irked politician of a string of newspapers in the last and the publishes Thursdays, so on a drove around and bought all 200 neighbouring Plumas County, best of his kind Wednesday, Russell, 67, sat down copies as damage control. said that Russell comes across as a to write the front page. Thirty years A self-described contrarian, crotchety newsman but that he’s ago this terrifi ed him. Russell uses every edition to help a sharp watchdog for the northern “But now I’m like, ‘Watch what I him prove that a small town’s Sierra Nevada. Recently he exposed — Debra Moore, can do,’” he said — with the chortle strength is its common ground. He some county supervisors for of a melodrama villain and a voice can call someone an idiot, disagree double-dipping. They apologised managing editor as deep as the colour of his favourite with their politics, question their and paid back the money. of a string of bourbon. good sense and still share a bite or “He has a heart of gold, but he’ll He was, however, facing seasonal a sip. take on anyone,” she said. “He is the newspapers diffi culties. Breakfasts are busy at the last and the best of his kind.” “Everyone is terminally well- Coyoteville Cafe on Fridays, when The walls of the newsroom — behaved from October well into the latest Mountain Mess — as many where Russell simultaneously January around here,” he said. “It’s here call the paper — is fi rst out. typed, smoked and readied the ‘ hard on headlines.” “Good ol’ Don Russell, he’s quite next day’s paper — are layered with ’ Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

ALIVE AND KICKING: A screen-grab of the Mountain Messenger website. newspaper clippings, mementos Messenger from the printer and it isn’t always easy for him to be “And a couple of times a year, it Russell didn’t fi nd that and nicotine. Several pictures of deliver it to general stores and around people. “Once you’ve had is a sight beyond magnifi cent,” he newsworthy. Mark Twain, the Sierra’s most news racks, where it sells for 50 someone’s insides on your outsides, said. “The only person around here famous newsman (the paper’s cents. Russell pays McDermid two you’re never the same. Never.” McDermid agreed: “They call who didn’t know Lee was gay was slogan is Mark Twain Wrote Here), cigarettes for the help. Their paper route took them up it the hoarfrost, when every little Lee.” are on display, along with photos According to McDermid, he over Yuba Pass. The Sierra Valley blade of anything has ice sticking A live-and-let-live attitude has of Russell looking like Twain, but and Russell are an unusual pair of spread out in panoramic splendour, out like the fur on a ruffl ed cat’s tail. long persisted in the mountains, wearing a cowboy hat. friends. carved by the same forces that The whole valley turns into blinking Russell said, “dating back to the “I am exactly like Mark Twain,” “Peace creeps and former raised the towering mountains. lights. It’s a little bit of wonderful.” Gold Rush, when the world tipped Russell said, continuing to type. Marines aren’t supposed to get Any weekly drive becomes Looping through the hills, and everything that wasn’t bolted “Except he was famous, talented along, but we do,” said McDermid, routine, Russell said, but he always houses are few and more than ended up in California. The ones and worked hard.” who fought in Vietnam. He said notices this view. half are empty — the property of who lost everything got stuck in Raised in Detroit, Russell spent moneyed outsiders who rent them these hills and learned to take each summers with family in east to tourists during the summer. The other as they came.” Tennessee. The draft board called sawmills, logging and mining left The next night, Russell again was when he turned 18, but Russell years ago, taking most of the people at the bar — with McDermid and didn’t answer. He fi gured he’d with them. There are about 3,000 Jim Roos, who owns a small interest rather spend fi ve years in federal residents in all of Sierra County. in the paper. prison than Vietnam. “We are under no over- “He’s a Trumpster,” Russell said No-one ever showed up to arrest population pressures,” Russell said. of Roos. “But I don’t hold being a him, so at 20 he headed west. He “This is California. Here people fool against anyone but that fool, learned forestry in California’s gold want to visit the snow, not live in Trump.” country. Owned a fi shing boat in it.” In a decidedly blue state, this Alaska. Bought into a small-town Delivery day, as always, ended region is as red as a painted barn. newspaper. in Downieville — at the St Charles, President Donald Trump won 14 “I’m proud that I’ve managed to which residents just call “the bar” California counties by more than avoid honest work my whole life,” because there is only one in town. 10 percentage points. All of them he said. “I worked in the woods. I “Give me a cheap bourbon were in Northern California and the fi shed. And now I write.” with a sip back,” Russell said. The western Sierra. He hired the paper’s one other bartender was pouring the drinks Roos and Russell conceded employee, Jill Tahija, after a two- before he ordered. that their little paper makes little question interview: “Can you Lee Adams, former Sierra County money, hanging on only because type?” “Do you smoke?” She said sheriff , walked through the door of income generated from running yes to both. and made a beeline for Russell. legal notices. They said it won’t She puts together the inside Adams keeps a copy of a favourite survive many more years. pages, including a chart of the front page in his wallet. “We can’t pass it on because the previous week’s weather sponsored In large, black letters it screamed young ones who are smart enough by Grubstake Saloon and the one word — an expletive for chicken to run it, we like too much to do that most widely read feature, the manure. to,” Russell said. sheriff ’s blotter. A recent highlight: The story is about Adams. He When the paper does close, “Someone in Sierra City suspected wouldn’t pull a deputy Russell had Russell said, he just might give they had been scammed.” deemed too aggressive in patrolling fi ction writing a shot. Tahija answers the phones. Main Street. “I was told by now-dead relatives Russell delivers the paper. Adams said the headline made that I ought to be a writer,” he said. On a recent Thursday morning, “I’m proud that I’ve managed to him laugh. “I remember from a very young Brutus, a 140-pound shepherd- avoid honest work my whole life. I “I’m relieved to hear that,” age taking a certain pleasure in chow-wolf mix, butted open the Russell said. “I always felt bad stringing words together.” door to the newspaper offi ce and worked in the woods. I fished. And about the timing, since that was a He said his short stories would be walked in. hard time for you personally.” set somewhere like Downieville. He Half an hour later, Scott now I write” It was when Adams, now the fi rst thinks there are important things to McDermid, Brutus’ owner, openly gay county supervisor, fi rst observe about life in a small town. arrived to help Russell pick up the — Don Russell came out. —Los Angeles Times/TNS 6 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY

Future 318 organises boot camp

Future 318, in association with Naseem Al Rabeeh “We hope that we helped raise more awareness Medical Centre, Anytime Fitness, Sharq Village about cancer and how to prevent it. It was a and Spa and Qatar Cancer Society, recently great initiative and we had a really great turn out,” organised a Beat Cancer Boot Camp at Al Dana said Salma Hamouda, Marketing Supervisor at Gardens of Sharq Village. Anytime Fitness. The camp featured various activities, including Mohammad Arif, Marketing Manager of Naseem Ki-Gong exercise and free medical check-up from Al Rabeeh Medical Centre, said, “Regular health Naseem Al Rabeeh Medical Centre. Qatar Cancer check-ups should be a part of one’s fitness routine Society also conducted an interactive session as it would help one for early detection of any on how to beat cancer with physical exercise impending illness. Naseem Al Rabeeh off ered free and activities by 40%. The boot camp, facilitated Body mass index ( BMI ) physical examination , by Anytime Fitness, ran for two hours and was diabetes and hypertension screening at the boot divided into 15 stations. The audience participated camp.” in a variety of exercises, including kettlebell, plank, Conchita Ponce, Founder of Future 318, said, “The sit ups, farmer’s walk, high knees and squats. The Beat Cancer Boot Camp is one our platforms session provided a full body workout with cardio to glue the community together in a fun and and muscle toning. healthy way.”

FLS marks New Year’s celebrations

Federation Libuwan Society (FLS) recently The event kicked off with the national organised an event to mark New Year’s anthem of Nepal. The event featured celebrations at Al Khor Park. The event was various musical performances by local chaired by Rakesh Shrestha, Chairman of artistes, including Amrit Limbu, Sujan GSS. The event was attended by notable Rai, Ashok Gurung, Nabin KC, Muskahn Nepali community leaders, including Limbu, Raj Gurung and Man Kumar. Sunita Birendra Yakthumba, Sangita Theg Limbu Chemching also performed at the occasion. and Santosh KC. — Text and photo by Usha Wagle Gautam

IIS team wins bronze at CBSE National Taekwondo Championship

Two students of Ideal Indian School (IIS), . The team was coached by Amazad including Waheeb Nabeel and Adnan Pant, Khan. Vijayant Thappa was the manager recently bagged a bronze medal in the CBSE of the team. Syed Shoukath Ali, Principal of National Taekwondo Championship held IIS, applauded the eff orts of the team and at Satyawati Memorial Academy Bijnor UP, congratulated them on their success. Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 7 REHABILITATION COMMUNITY

Coming together to bring kiwi back

CLEARING: Before the kiwi birds have a chance to make themselves at home, the area has to be cleared of their biggest enemies, including stoats, ferrets and weasels.

An ambitious project wants to kiwi chicks survive to adulthood in some rare exceptions, live far One of the fi rst people to hit a unprotected areas,” Ward says. removed from cities, towns and trap’s stake into the ground in early New Zealand had been isolated villages. November was 90-year-old local bring New Zealand’s kiwi back for 80 million years until humans “Bringing kiwi closer to where Ted Smith. arrived 800 years ago. There Kiwis live puts them top of mind He and his local community originally were no ground-dwelling and creates a sense of ownership started trapping their backyards from the brink of extinction and land mammals but instead an with those who are privileged a decade ago. It has “resulted in abundance of fl ightless birds, enough to have them living on or a remarkable increase in birdlife insects and lizards. As a result, near their land,” she adds. – tui, kaka, kereru, pukeko, into Wellington backyards kiwi are ill-equipped to fi ght off The new project aims to create “a kingfi sher, quail and others,” he newcomers. city of kiwi conservationists” who reports. “If left alone, the odds of a The charity Kiwis for kiwi, which will have a personal attachment to kiwi chick reaching adulthood are have a chance to make themselves supports community-led initiatives their national bird. one in 20. Given human assistance, By Jule Scherer at home, the area has to be cleared around the country, says that an While the project has secured a the odds rise to one in fi ve. If we of their biggest enemies, including average of 27 kiwi are killed by budget of 3.3 million New Zealand allow kiwi to die out, then we stoats, ferrets and weasels. predators each day. They warn that dollars (2.2 million dollars) over deserve to be called idiots,” he adds. or New Zealanders, the Over the next three years, “as this rate, kiwi may disappear fi ve years for the setting and Smith is part of a groundswell of kiwi is not just a bird. The thousands of traps will be set, from the mainland in our lifetime.” maintenance of more than 4,400 community conservation initiatives fl ightless animal with a with the goal of eradicating the Michelle Impey from Kiwis traps, it is still very much driven now sweeping New Zealand. mop of fur-like feathers carnivorous mammals. If the eff ort for kiwi explains that one of the by the community. Schoolchildren In Wellington alone, there are is the Pacifi c country’s proves successful, the birds will be challenges of kiwi conservation is are monitoring tracking tunnels, more than 70 community groups brand,F It’s the icon the country has translocated by the Department of “getting people to understand and mountain bikers and trail runners involved in pest management. All fought wars under, the nickname Conservation (DOC) in the hopes care about something they can’t see check reserve trap lines on around the country, people are for its currency and the name the that they will breed again. and don’t experience.” lunchtime rides, and families build working together to protect kiwi people use for themselves. “Currently, only 4 to 5 percent of Kiwi are nocturnal and, with tracks on the weekends. populations from predators and But most New Zealanders have restore the health of their natural never seen a kiwi in the wild. One environment. hundred years ago, the country “The Capital Kiwi programme had millions of the odd-looking is just another community nocturnal ground-dwellers conservation project, albeit one on roaming all around. But today, a very large scale and designed to there are only about 68,000 left, create a safe environment for our the vast majority living far away national namesake – a safe and from humans in protected off shore sustainable population of wild kiwi sanctuaries, nature reserves or near to our capital city,” Ward says. zoos. New Zealand’s DOC has also Paul Ward wants to change this. come on board. “Getting kiwi back The self-confessed ‘bird nerd’ into the hills of Wellington where is the driving force behind an people can hear them call is a great ambitious project that aims to bring way to demonstrate what New back the shrill call of kiwis to the Zealand could look like if we could backyards of New Zealand’s capital, get rid of the stoats and ferrets,” the Wellington, within the next decade. DOC’s Jack Mace says. “It’s not right that more The department hopes to rid international tourists have seen a New Zealand by 2050 of the most kiwi than the people named after damaging introduced predators them,” the 43-year old screenwriter that threaten the nation’s natural points out. wildlife. The initiative, called Capital If Capital Kiwi is a success, Mace Kiwi, plans to reintroduce kiwi believes it would “add another to 23,000 hectares of public and feather to Wellington’s cap as one private land stretching from the of the best places in the world to city outskirts to the rough western see New Zealand’s unique wildlife.” coast. However, before the birds TRAPS: Traps for weasels, ferrets and other predators of New Zealand’s kiwi are built by volunteers. – DPA 8 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY FITN Wounded veteran finds new Marine veteran Calvin Smith’s new mission in life is to share the health benefits of the streng

FIRST-TIMER: Smith is the first veteran amputee in training to become an instructor for Club Pilates.

By Pam Kragen traumatic injuries. poster tacked up on his bedroom wall led to more surgeries. Kristina Reinhold-Smith. After he “My message is that just because by the time he was in second grade. On May 30, 2007, Smith had just graduated from the programme, they you’re wounded, that doesn’t mean Serving in the military was the family fi nished processing his fi nal discharge started seeing each other in 2009. ver 10 years beginning you can’t do something,” he said. business. His grandfather spent 33 papers at Camp Pendleton and was They married in December 2010 and in 2003, Marine veteran “The only person holding you back is years in the Navy and his father did riding home on his motorcycle on share a combined fi ve children from Calvin Smith endured yourself.” three tours in Vietnam. Interstate 5 when he was nearly their previous marriages. 21 surgeries and a leg Smith is the fi rst veteran amputee In high school, he enlisted in the killed in a three-vehicle crash. Smith Reinhold-Smith, 43, said it was amputation caused by in training to become an instructor Marines on delayed-entry status and collided with a speeding car, which diffi cult seeing her husband struggle Owar injuries, a motorcycle accident for Club Pilates, which has 400 gyms spent most weekends drilling with pushed his bike into the next lane with his health. He suff ered chronic and a brain tumour. nationwide and 250 more scheduled to other recruits before heading to boot where he was hit by a second car. pain and muscle spasms related to his But looking back on that open this year, said Tianna Strateman, camp after his senior year in 2000. Smith has no memory of the spine and leg injuries and he battled devastating decade, the 37-year-old Vice President of Education for Club As an infantryman, he was stationed accident, which shattered his right post-traumatic stress disorder and Vista, Calif, resident said he wouldn’t Pilates. at several international bases. On his wrist, damaged the muscles in his depression. change a thing. “Calvin is defi nitely a rock star,” fi rst seven-month deployment to right arm, caused a traumatic brain Although he underwent multiple On his road to recovery, he fell in Strateman said. “I can’t say enough an international war zone in 2003, injury and broke most of the bones surgeries to repair his leg, he still love with his speech therapist and about him and everything he’s he suff ered a brain injury and vefi below the knee in his left leg. spent most of his time in a wheelchair she’s now his wife. He also discovered accomplished. We’re excited about herniated discs in his upper spine As a result of the brain injury, Smith or with a cane. Finally, in 2013, Pilates, which has so reshaped his his teacher training and becoming an when the Humvee he was riding in struggled with short-term memory he decided to have the lower limb mental and physical health that instructor for both regular members struck a hole in the road caused by a loss and word fi nding. Five months amputated. His only regret is that he he’s now becoming an instructor. and others in the military. He’s our tank. He returned to Camp Pendleton after the accident, he started therapy didn’t do it sooner. Now he enjoys His new mission in life is to share fi rst and we hope he won’t be our last. for spine fusion surgery and a period at the Brain Injury Day Treatment hiking outdoors with his children and the health benefi ts of the strength- He’s a trailblazer.” of recuperation. He returned back to Clinic at Scripps Memorial Hospital shopping trips to Costco, outings he training exercise programme with Smith grew up in Mesa, Ariz, the same station in 2006, where he Encinitas. couldn’t do before. other veterans who’ve experienced where he said he had a Marine Corps aggravated his back problems, which That’s where he met his future wife, After leaving the service, Smith Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 9 NESS COMMUNITY w calling as fitness teacher gth-training exercise programme with other veterans who’ve experienced traumatic injuries

FITNESS PROGRAMME: Developed in the early 20th century by German fitness trainer Joseph Pilates, Pilates is a strength-and balance-training fitness programme that uses floor exercises, equipment and a table-like gym apparatus IDEAL: Pilates is ideal for people like Smith with disabilities or physical limitations because the regimen can be modified to do core-building exercises. for each user.

spent 18 months at Palomar College, studying to become a transition liaison for discharged veterans. But because of his brain injury, he couldn’t retain the course material despite long hours of studying and he failed most of his classes. Then, during a check- up in early 2017, doctors found that he had a brain tumour, which they removed. Smith was depressed, overweight, out of shape and unsure what to do with the rest of his life. Then, in April 2017, he and his wife decided to take a class at Club Pilates in San Marcos. Before they fi nished their introductory class, he had decided to sign up for unlimited visits. “I could feel my body being challenged but not that jarring, squishing pain that you get with other workouts,” he said. “I knew this was something I could do without injuring myself.” Developed in the early 20th century by German fi tness trainer Joseph CHANGING PERCEPTION: Smith said he’d like to bring more men into the fitness programme, which is primarily practised by women and change the Pilates, Pilates is a strength-and perception. balance-training fi tness programme that uses fl oor exercises, equipment helped him shed 45 pounds. And classes at several North County clubs. the brain tumour was removed and Reinhold-Smith said she thinks and a table-like gym apparatus to do through interacting with trainers and Eventually, he hopes to teach Pilates to was increasingly isolated and trying her husband’s recovery through the core-building exercises. fellow students at the club, it also Marines at Camp Pendleton. to fi gure out his future,” she said. programme might be an incentive Strateman said Pilates is ideal for helped him come out of what he calls Reinhold-Smith, who now works as “Coming here gave him a purpose for for other veterans struggling with people like Smith with disabilities his ‘bubble of isolation’ at home. a speech therapy manager for Kaiser his day. He’s a people person and a amputations and chronic pain. or physical limitations because the Over the past year, Smith has Health, said she’s been amazed by natural teacher, so being here makes “I think he could become an regimen can be modifi ed for each user. completed nearly 500 hours of her husband’s transformation. He him so much happier.” ambassador for people with injuries “The goal is to make it the best for one classroom, fi tness and assistant no longer walks with diffi culty, no Smith said he’d like to bring more who are looking for something,” person, not a one size fi ts all.” teacher training. Once he fi nishes his longer suff ers muscle spasms and his men into the fi tness programme, she said. “He has a lot to give back Smith began taking classes at the teaching hours and an anatomy class personality has been transformed. which is primarily practised by to people.” – The San Diego Union- San Marcos club every day, which next month, he’ll be certifi ed to teach “He was really depressed before women and change the perception. Tribune/TNS 10 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Five must-have jacket styles

onfused about choosing the right jacket for diff erent occasions and outings? Get these vefi jacket styles to upgrade your wardrobe. Tabby Bhatia, Director of Voganow.com, and Manjula Gandhi, Chief product offi cer, Numero CUno, have some suggestions: Trucker jackets: Trucker jackets are a denim/jean jacket version with double breast fl ap pocket style. Hand painted embroidered designs, beads, braid embellishments and patches on the back of these jackets look funky.

Blouson jackets: A blouson jacket or Harrington jacket is typically loose, but fi ts around the waist with an elastic fabric. It looks similar to bomber jacket but comes in varied styles; in zippers, buttons and diff erent collar patterns.

Anoraks or Parkas: Anoraks or parkas are somewhat similar. These are water resistant jackets although a parka is usually longer than anoraks with faux fur lining on the hoodie.

Biker jackets: Leather biker jackets have lots of zippers, straps and buckles around. Biker jackets are perfect to go along for outings and road trips. It gives entirely diff erent look from other jacket styles. Black is the ideal colour to pair with a white T-shirt, black jeans, black high ankle shoes and shades.

Bomber jackets: It gives perfectly dapper look when paired with basic tees and jeans. It keeps you warm yet stylish in winter. They are available in diff erent fabrics like synthetic, leather, polycotton and suede. — IANS

ARIES TAURUS GEMINI March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

Everything should be going great for your career, Aries. It may all seem Discussions with those close to you could lead to the discovery of new Emotions that run very deep should bring you a lot of satisfaction today, too good to be true, but rest assured that it’s real. Events could involve concepts, perhaps from foreign cultures. You will want to learn more Gemini. Relationships of all kinds could also be especially promising. a job change, promotion, raise, or the opportunity to strike out on your about them, Taurus, as will your friends. You might even decide to Close friendships might become closer because of your mutual own. Don’t kid yourself. A lot of challenges lie ahead, but this should all plan a trip to a place where you could expand your knowledge of this interests. Happiness and satisfaction should reign in the home today. lead to great personal satisfaction in the long run. Go for it. new interest. Any trip planned today should go smoothly and be quite rewarding. Don’t hesitate. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

Relations with neighbours, siblings, or other relatives could get a shot in Success in your work continues to bring good fortune your way. Today As you continue to enjoy success and good fortune, your self- the arm now, Cancer. For some, your recent business successes cause you might get reassurance that this isn’t a flash in the pan. You’re likely confidence grows, Virgo, and so you’re likely to attract new relationships them to get on the bandwagon. For others, your personal growth could to be financially secure for a long time. You’re probably feeling strong with fascinating people in exciting fields who share your vision and increase their admiration of you. Partnerships of any kind formed today and robust, full of energy and stamina, and ready to take on just about interests. These could be business associations, close friendships, or show great promise of success. These could be business or personal. any challenge. Move ahead, Leo, but move with caution. You’re never new partners. Relax and be yourself. You don’t have to impress anyone. Don’t be shy. Go with the flow. too prosperous to be careful. They probably already like you. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Today your sensitivity joins forces with practicality. Intuitive insights Today shows the promise of being a very busy yet fulfilling day, Scorpio. Your financial success over the past several weeks may seem too good could come to you today, and you might express your new ideas to Enterprises involving corporations or other groups in your community to be true, Sagittarius. It might make yet another leap forward. This others, Libra. Don’t be surprised if they accept them. Your unconscious are likely to benefit from your participation. You combine intuition with should make you happy. It also could bring up your insecurity over mind is on a far more practical track than you may assume. Make use of practicality in everything you do. You’re especially communicative and whether or not this cycle will continue. It probably will for a while. It this ability while you can because it might not be so clear tomorrow. Go good at dealing with others. Don’t be surprised if public recognition might be a good idea to save or invest you money, just so you can feel with the flow. comes your way. more secure in the future. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You’re flying high at this point, Capricorn, enjoying the success you’ve Today you might have insights as to how to advance your career. All your relationships should be especially warm and supportive now, achieved over the past several weeks. Today you could accomplish yet These could come your way through dreams, sudden revelations, or Pisces. This is a great day to form a business, personal, or partnership. another goal, adding to your feeling of accomplishment. You might plan perhaps visions. Don’t hesitate to put them into action simply because Business partnerships made now should be successful, while a vacation or perhaps return to college. The expansion of your horizons of the unorthodox way they come to you, Aquarius. Some of the most committed bonds entered into today could well last for a long time. hasn’t left you complacent. Instead, you want to continue expanding. progressive and successful ideas have come because the inventor had Be open, honest, and unafraid to speak your mind. You might find that This is a very positive development. Go for it. a vivid dream. Write down your insights and go for it. others share your thoughts. 12 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe Weather Forecast

BLIZZARD FOG SLEET BREEZE FRONT SNOW CALM FROST SQUALL CLEAR HAIL STORM CLOUD ICY SUNNY COLD MILD THUNDER DRY PRESSURE WIND FLOOD RAIN

Codeword Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Sudoku

Bound And Gagged

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

ACROSS DOWN 1. Where the diamond chip 1. Look peeved, but less came from? (6,4) uppish? (5) 6. Is not penniless: that’s the 2. Being canny? (9) catch (4) 3. Went without saying one was 10. Attacked, one fancied (4,3) amazed (4,10) 11. Wander near, the Continental 4. Looks again at the duplicated following (7) note and notices (7) 12. ‘Put back the strap’, you say 5. Contend it’s income, dear (7) (9) 7. Misread the L in ‘plant’ (5) 13. Heavens! Joe has a dog! (5) 8. Shut up about interchanging 14. As before, the woman gets material? (9) the bird (5) 9. There’s no better way of 15. How long one goes on in asking who’d like to smoke! retirement? (5,4) (5,3,6) Answers 17. Bickering while the cad is 14. Corrected when one tied up with string (9) changed gear (9) Wordsearch Codeword 20. The meat, pull to pieces (5) 16. From Taormina, travelling 21. Stand, with no difficulty, to with a girl-friend who’s Italian one side (5) (9) 23. The bloomer is being 18. Tea Rod prepared to take out published (6,3) in the garden (7) 25. As a news broadcast from 19. The doctor’s in the front, somewhere in Wales (7) standing with the girl (7) 26. Keeping Greenhill inside (7) 22. Tie at the post (5) 27. Rang in, mad to have 24. The ones you use as a sun- something done (4) screen (5) 28. Tamper with in no infantile way? (10)

Yesterday’s Solutions

ACROSS: 1 Drowsily 5 Hazard DOWN: 1 Depict 2 Oversight 3 10 Pretty much alike 11 Castors Sets out 4 Limes 6 Adamant 7 12 Unaware 13 Agitates 15 Anita 8 Deepened 9 Accursed Taste 18 Pitch 20 Pedestal 23 14 Top heavy 16 Searching Strange 25 Bouncer 26 Above 17 Apostate 19 Hangers 21 everything 27 Elapse 28 All Shutter 22 Fright 24 Rhoda 25 right. Beryl. 14 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY BOLLYWOOD The Accidental a game changer for political cinema: Producer

he Accidental Prime may come his way after the Vijay Minister producer Sunil Ratnakar Gutte directorial releases. Bohra says he knew there “The reactions will come. It is will be conjectures about a democratic country... Everyone it being a propaganda has the right of opinion, and I will fiT lm, but he is also certain it will be surely respect whatever comes my a game changer for political cinema way,” he said. in India. When and why did you decide “In my opinion, the fi lm is to make The Accidental Prime certainly going to be a game Minister. What was the agenda? changer as far as political cinema “My agenda for producing The is concerned. It took two years to Accidental Prime Minister is to write, about half a year to make, but make an entertaining fi lm. We shall be remembered for a long long picked up the rights of the book time as it is the fi rst fi lm where all from Sanjaya Baru sir in 2014. Since the characters are addressed real then, it has been a long process. names,” Bohra said in a statement. “Our company Bohra Bros is The fi lm, starring Anupam in business since 1947. It was Kher as former Prime Minister founded by my grandfather Shree Manmohan Singh, is based on the Ram Bohra. He too made fi lms 2014 memoir of the same name by that were ahead of its time like Sanjaya Baru, Singh’s media adviser Hercules (1964) Thief of Baghdad from 2004 to 2008. (1977) to name a few. I think we are While the BJP shared the trailer working on the same lines — on on its Twitter timeline, some creating content that has some Congress leaders have objected to USP attached to it. Hence, The its content. Accidental Prime Minister. There has been talk about The He believes the road less travelled Accidental Prime Minister being a is very diffi cult to tread on. propaganda fi lm ahead of the Lok “The same could be said about Sabha elections. What does Bohra the journey to make this fi lm. We have to say? are a content based production “I am aware, and I knew it house and to make this kind of fi lm would surely happen but it will all we need support from a studio, but be cleared once the fi lm is out in the market dynamics are such that cinemas. People will respect the no studio was interested and it took work and hard work rather than lot of time till we fi nally managed to raising any other issue,” he said. get our act together.” Bohra, who has earlier backed Bohra said the fi lm is a “three fi lms like Gangs of Wasseypur, hero” project. Shahid, Tanu Weds Manu and “Akshaye Khanna (who plays Mastram, said risk is involved in Baru), Anupamji and Vijay Ratnakar each and every fi lm. Gutte, the debutant director. “Without risk no fi lm can be Dictionary will fail you to fi nd the made,” he commented when asked one word that describes the fi lm he about the risks involved in making a has made. What you see now is his political fi lm in India. vision and he has taken this fi lm to a He is ready for the reactions that THE RISKS: Sunil Bohra says he knew there would be conjectures about the film being propaganda. diff erent level,” Bohra said. – IANS

Amrish Puri was a great actor, will go down memory lane with Amrish Puri’s Proud to helm a biopic on human being: Javed Akhtar achievements and remarkable contribution to Narendra Modi: Omung Kumar Hindi cinema. Ahead of the 14th death anniversary of late “Amrish Puri will be remembered as a great National-Award winning fi lmmaker legendary actor Amrish Puri, veteran lyricist actor. But people like me, who have known Omung Kumar says to direct a biopic on and screenwriter Javed Akhtar remembered him personally, will remember him as a great Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a huge him saying he was a combination of “a great actor and a great human being. responsibility and he is proud to helm it. actor and great human being.” “Amrish Puri was a mix of both. Noted Kumar, who has previously directed In the forthcoming episode of Zee fi lmmaker Steven Spielberg had once movies like Mary Kom and Sarbjit, took Bollywood’s Classic Legends Season 5, Akhtar mentioned that he had seen many fi lms in his to Twitter and called Modi “one the most lifetime, but he has never seen such a good prolifi c leaders in the history of India.” villain,” Akhtar said while paying tribute to the “To direct a biopic of a man Shri actor. Narendra Modiji who is one the most Whether as the homesick NRI in Aditya prolifi c leaders in the history of India is Chopra’s Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge, the a huge responsibility and I am proud to benevolent feudal landlord in Viraasat, helm it. Vivek Oberoi to play the legend. Sunny Deol’s terminally ill, idealistic father in Produced by Suresh Oberoi and Sandip Ghaatak or Amisha Patel’s anti-India father Ssingh,” the director tweeted on Monday. in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, Amrish Puri created The offi cial poster of the fi lm based on a gallery of characters in his decades long the life of Modi was launched on Monday journey in Bollywood. by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra He was not only seen in Hindi fi lms but Fadnavis. also Kannada, Marathi, Hollywood, Punjabi, Titled as PM Narendra Modi, it stars Malayalam, Telugu and Tamil. actor Vivek Anand Oberoi. The tagline With over 400 fi lms credited to his name, reads, “Deshbhakti ki meri shakti hai”. The CANDID: Omung Kumar says Narendra ICON: Amrish Puri is remembered ahead of his the Mogambo of Bollywood took his last breath fi lm’s poster was launched in 27 languages. Modi is one the most prolific leaders in the 14th death anniversary. on January 12, 2005. He was 72. – IANS – IANS history of India. Wednesday, January 9, 2019 GULF TIMES 15 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY A dip in views for Golden Globes from last year

n an era when big TV audiences are becoming harder to come by, the 18.6 million people who watched the Sunday telecast of the 76th Golden Globes were Igood news for NBC. CAST: From left, John Krasinski, Noah Jupe, Millicent Nielsen data showed the three- Simmonds and Emily Blunt at the Paramount Pictures hour-plus ceremony was down just premiere for A Quiet Place at AMC Lincoln Square Theater. 2 percent from the 2018 show. But among the 18 to 49 age group that Writers Guild Awards advertisers seek most, the annual announces 2019 nominees Hollywood Foreign Press Assn. trophy show recognising movies and TV The Writers Guild Awards nominees for screenplay writing from the past year presented was up 4 were announced on Monday on the heels of the Golden Globe percent. Awards. The audience was in line with recent The original screenplay category includes A24’s Eighth Golden Globes telecasts, which drew 19 Grade, Universal’s Green Book, Paramount’s A Quiet Place, million viewers in 2018 and 20 million Netfl ix’s Roma and Annapurna Pictures’ Vice. viewers in 2017. The adapted screenplay category includes Focus Features’ In general, the Golden Globes BlacKkKlansman, Disney’s Black Panther, Fox Searchlight’s Can have not faced the kind of signifi cant You Ever Forgive Me? Annapurna Pictures’ If Beale Street Could drop-off s by show business trophy Talk and Warner Bros.’ A Star Is Born. programmes such as the Oscars, The awards historically have signifi cant overlap with Oscar Emmys and the Grammys, which have nominees in the screenplay categories, and last year’s winners all seen double-digit year-to-year — Get Out in original screenplay and Call Me by Your Name in decreases in recent years. adapted screenplay, went on to win Oscars as well. One factor hurting awards One quirk of the guild nominations is that fi lms can be programmes is younger viewers deemed ineligible if they do not adhere to certain guild rules. choosing to watch clips on social media The Golden Globe-nominated script for Fox Searchlight’s The platforms instead of the live broadcast. Favourite was the top contender to be left out of consideration Such viewing is not counted in the data this year. Other ineligible screenplays included Sorry to Bother supplied by Nielsen. You, Leave No Trace, Shoplifters and Incredibles 2. But the loose, party-like atmosphere The 2019 Writers Guild Awards will be held on February 17 of the Golden Globes - where big- RED CARPET: Sandra Oh and Andy Samberg on the red carpet for the 76th Annual at concurrent ceremonies in Los Angeles and New York. - Los name movie and TV stars have been Golden Globe Awards. Angeles Times/ TNS known to behave mischievously - has helped separate the show from the the contest. It had an overnight rating show-business awards shows in recent Rider wins at the National pack. There is also less competition of 22.9, the highest for an NFL wild years. Society of Film Critics from other fi rst-run programming in card game on NBC since 1994. Bohemian Rhapsody was named best early January. Andy Samberg and Sandra Oh hosted motion picture, drama. Green Book The National Society of Film Critics on Saturday named The This year’s annual fete was likely the Golden Globes ceremony at the was honoured for best motion picture, Rider, a cowboy drama directed by Chloe Zhao, the year’s best helped by a strong audience lead- Beverly Hilton Hotel. While there were musical or comedy. The Americans picture. in from NBC’s coverage of an NFC a number of speeches and gags about won for best TV drama series while The Blending narrative and documentary techniques, The Rider wild card playoff game in which the diversity in Hollywood, the ceremony Kominsky Method was honoured in the is set on South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and Philadelphia Eagles defeated the did not have any of the anti-Donald comedy series category. follows a Lakota cowboy after an accident derails his rodeo Bears 16-15 on the fi nal play of Trump vitriol that has permeated other - Los Angeles Times/ TNS riding dreams. Zhao’s second movie The Rider edged out Roma. Roma, the black-and-white Spanish language picture about a Mexican family and its live-in nanny, won the foreign-language Chris Rock doesn’t “If it was fi ve years ago, I could say standup of sorts, Rock looked into the fi lm category. The society also awarded Alfonso Cuaron prizes want to host the Oscars something really off ensive and funny audience at Steve Martin, who was for director and for cinematography. Inspired by his childhood right now, but I can’t do that anymore, at the award show to present the best memories, Roma already had taken home best picture honours Comedian Chris Rock has denied any so... hey!” Rock said, as he took the supporting actor award to Richard E. from the Los Angeles Film Critics Assn., among others. interest hosting the Oscars. podium at the NYFCC Awards where Grant for Can You Ever Forgive Me? - and In the national society’s honours, Olivia Colman won the The denial came on Monday night he was on hand to present director Bo brought up the very topical subject of actress award for her portrayal of Queen Anne in the British at the New York Film Critics Circle Burnham with the award for best fi rst hosting the Oscars. period fi lm The Favourite, beating Regina Hall in Support the (NYFCC) Awards dinner in Manhattan, fi lm for Eighth Grade. “Steve Martin is here. You should host Girls and Melissa McCarthy in Can You Ever Forgive Me? reports variety.com. Continuing to do some impromptu the Oscars. You’re the best. Steve Martin Ethan Hawke won the actor prize for playing a weary pastor should host the Oscars! Because I am not in an upstate New York church in First Reformed. Runners-up doing it, goddammit! You are not getting were Willem Dafoe in At Eternity’s Gate, Ben Foster in Leave No me,” Rock said. Rock’s comments come Trace and John C. Reilly in The Sisters Brothers and Stan & Ollie. amidst the continuously developing — Los Angeles Times/ TNS actor Kevin Hart saga, as the Academy’s search for an Oscars host continues. Rock has hosted the Oscars twice - fi rst in 2005 and in 2016. Rock was one of many big names at the Monday night dinner, held each year by the NYFCC. Martin Scorsese presented First Reformed director Paul Schrader with the best screenplay award; Gayle King introduced Regina King, who won best supporting actress for If Beale Street Could Talk. The intimate event is an annual favourite for stars, who enjoy thanking (and playfully scolding) fi lm critics for WINNER: The Rider follows the story of a cowboy after an their support (or lack thereof) of their accident derails his rodeo riding dreams. fi lms. Ethan Hawke, won best actor for DISINTERESTED: Chris Rock hosted the Oscars back in 2005 and 2016. First Reformed. – IANS 16 GULF TIMES Wednesday, January 9, 2019 COMMUNITY Top Pakistani singers to rock the town tonight

REARING TO GO: Second from left, Ali Sethi, Quratulain Balouch, , and with the organisers at the press conference held yesterday. Photos by Jayan Orma

admire and respect. I grew up listening to By Mudassir Raja Strings’ music. Faisal and Bilal gave me my first big break on Coke Studio. They gave me a real opportunity to show what I had. our internationally renowned They had a belief in me when I did not have Pakistani pop singers are excited faith in myself. It is a very special moment to rock in Doha for the first for me. I always longed to be in Doha. It time today at Qatar National is really beautiful to be here. It is like a Convention Center (QNCC). homecoming for me.” FThe PK Music Fest is organised by Responding to a question about what QTickets in association with Shop Qatar kind of music Strings will present at the Festival from 7pm to 10pm. In line with concert, Faisal said: “I will sing more of the festival, the organisers held a press our popular String songs and we will not conference at the St. Regis Doha yesterday. focus much on our Coke Studio work. It is The press conference was attended by a great combination. We have an amazing members of the band Strings Bilal Maqsood set of artistes on the stage. We are really and Faisal Kapadia, along with Quratulain excited and hopefully the people will see Balouch, also known as QB, and Ali Sethi. the excitement on the stage also. While Strings have an established fan Speaking about Strings’ journey so far, following across , emerging Bilal said: “We continue to learn something talents QB and Ali Sethi have also earned a new every day. I think you also learn when strong fan base for themselves with their you listen to other people. Working with powerful vocals. They are also regularly Coke Studio for four years, we also learnt a featured in the top-rated Pakistani lot. We have also learnt a lot in our life in television programme Coke Studio. general during all these years. We will be in Strings, on the other hand, are front of you with our full force. We present celebrating their 30th anniversary as a band. on the stage whatever we have learnt in 30 They are likely to entertain the audience years. with some of their biggest hits including Na “As the producers we also have the Janay Kyun, Main Tou Dekhoonga, Chaye responsibility to inspire and appreciate Chaye, Anjane, Mera Bichraa Yaar and other artistes as well. It has been a beautiful Zinda. The performance will also feature journey,” Faisal noted. Urr Jaoon and Sajni from their latest album Regarding their future plans, Faisal said: 30, which celebrates three decades of the “Absolutely, we are looking forward to band’s journey. having more and more live performances. Speaking at the press conference, Faisal This year we are releasing our album 30. said: “We thank you all for extending warm POP STAR: Quratulain Balouch, also known as QB among fans, said she will cover some popular The album has six songs and we have welcome to us in Doha. Thirty years do Pakistani songs apart from her own at the festival. already released the songs one by one. We not mean that we are too old [laughing]. have a huge hunger for performing on the But surprisingly, we are coming to such a “For past four years, we have been nice venue. I am pumped up and so excited sage.” beautiful country Doha for the first time producing Cock Studio with these amazing not just to perform but also to listen to About what she is going to offer for the to perform. I thank the organisers for artistes. We have been hungry to go back at Strings and Ali Sethi. I think we are going to music lovers, QB said: “I am going to offer providing the opportunity. We are very the stage. We hope that we all will have a put the house down [laughs].” my voice [laughs]. I have some cover songs excited. People do get tired in 30 years. But great time here.” Ali said: “I am also very excited to be that I really admire. I will sing some of my somehow we are feeling very excited here Quratulain Balouch said: “Thank you here. There is a long list saying why I original songs and songs of some classical and we as a band did not have such kind of to everyone who have pulled all of this am too excited. I am excited to perform Pakistani signers. I think the people are excitement earlier in our career. together. We are going to perform at a very alongside the people who I truly love, going to enjoy my music.”