Kuwaitis allocate India demands Controversial 10% of budget justice as ‘spy’ sheikh romps to for electronics9 dies11 in Pakistan AFC46 presidency

Max 33º Min 22º FREE

www.kuwaittimes.net NO: 15797- Friday, May 3, 2013 New virus kills 5 Saudis See Page 12

Local FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Conspiracy Local Spotlight Theories ANNAR: Experience the experienced Lipstick-free

of age. He loves Iranian food, which usually has meat, chicken, rice By Muna Al-Fuzai and the delicious Iranian sweets. I assumed it would be as good as many other well known Iranian dishes, so I ordered some of these dishes. When I received the menu by email for me to choose from, I loved the idea. I spoke with my friend’s wife, Ms. Farida Bakhtir, and By Badrya Darwish decried to give this project a chance. [email protected] At first glance, I thought it was quick, easy and professional. A good start, I assumed. I went through the menu which was well crafted and seemed attractive. I made my choice of the dishes that hen an old friend of mine told me about his wife’s long my son loves. I replied back and noted down all the items that I had [email protected] time dream to set up her own project, which I later found chosen and the details thereof. I also received a confirmation email Wwas to set up a restaurant, I thought it would turn out to be and when the big day showed up, I ate like I had never eaten before. another typical Kuwaiti project in which women open an outlet sell- On that day, I was amazed to explore the wide array of amazing t was surprising for me that the Turkish Airlines has ing cupcakes or pizzas. I was not really interested because opening a Iranian food and unlike many restaurants which care less about banned their hostesses from wearing bright-colored lip- new restaurant is something we hear about every day in Kuwait. In quality and presentation, this ANNAR thing had it all. Quality and stick. To me, thanks to the flood of serials we have been quantity, both. Believe me that this is a very rare thing to achieve in I fact, most people who live in Kuwait complain of obesity because watching on our channels over the past decade, I was rich food is part of a life style and gorging on it almost a hobby. So Kuwait. This two-in-one formula is hard to find. But I felt that this under the impression that the Turks are very liberal. gaining weight is easy and losing it is hard. lady has worked so hard not only to realize her dream as a chef in a Actually, their serials had immensely influenced society Three months later, I was invited to an event which this wonder best fashionable and possible way but also the food arrived on my woman and her husband had organized but unfortunately, I could table piping hot. everywhere in the Middle East. not make it as I felt sick on that particular day. I knew it was prefect Annar means a magic touch of Persian cuisine, I say this without In Jordan, taxi drivers are narrating or waiting for this or because all my colleagues who went to that event were talking any fear of exaggeration. Everyone enjoyed the lunch. Faridah made that Turkish serial to start. The same is the case with Kuwait, about the fantastic food which they had tasted and which left them me so proud even though I had to pay her. I was not sad for the Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Lebanon too. Everyone is affected amazed. I did not think too much about it all, and thought of it as money I paid, since it was worth every dinar. I believe this lady is and becomes a fan of the Turkish soap operas. I am sure all just another restaurant, I said to myself. entitled to say, “Yes, I realized my life’s dream by bringing happiness of you have heard of Noor and Mohannad. How famous did Recently, it was my son’s birthday. He was about to hit 25 years to others.” Mohannad become in the Arab World? He has become a star. Girls put his pictures everywhere - in their rooms, cars or on the walls of their cabinets. He is their dream man. Kuwait’s my business The same applies to Noor and other serials from Turkey. I cannot recall their names because I myself am not a soap opera fan, but sometimes it is forced on me. Once I was in a taxi in Amman riding with my sister. The driver was in a Kuwait entrepreneurs give up rush and was speeding. He said he was late to take his mother to watch her favorite soap opera. My editor heard me and said that the same happens in Bulgaria. She said, control for opportunity “When the Turkish soap opera starts, the country almost comes to a standstill, waiting for its favorite characters.” People in the office also exchange the latest news from for entrepreneurs. Flamboyant Italian designer, Roberto Cavalli, has the episodes as if they are discussing their own families’ By John P Hayes enjoyed years of success dressing some of the world’s most famous troubles. These soap operas reflect the real life of a country personalities, but, like any smart entrepreneur, he realized the and the people’s habits, clothes and all. It gave the impres- importance of extending his brand into new categories. So far, he’s sion that Turkish people live in a very liberal atmosphere. It lending his name to lifestyle and food ventures. Perhaps you’ve vis- was surprising to find out that Turkish Airlines can ban its [email protected] ited the Cavalli Club Dubai? Or a Cavalli Caffe in Delhi or Beirut? hostesses from using sexy lipstick colors. If it were to hap- Now you can enjoy Cavalli Caffe at Grand Avenues, and if plans come together as expected, you’ll also find Cavalli Caffe in Saudi pen in case of a Saudi Airline, I would have understood the Arabia and Bahrain - all thanks to the entrepreneurial vision of change. f you invest several million dollars to open an upscale, fine dining REMAS. What’s it with the lipstick? Does it freak out the passen- restaurant, would you expect to select the cutlery yourself, or Lest you get the idea that Dr. Sulaiman and his partners merely gers or the children? Why the ban? Is it considered indecent Iprefer that someone else do it for you? Your answer will reveal a surrendered their control (and their money) to Cavalli, here’s some- make-up? Are they afraid of an assault from passengers great deal about your personality, as well as your strengths and thing else of interest. “When things are not under your control,” who could possibly be mesmerized by the hostesses’ lip weaknesses as an entrepreneur. explained Dr. Sulaiman, “you still have opinions and convictions color? Or are they trying to avoid clashes on the plane as “I’m not a big fan of giving up control, so I’m not a big fan of about what is right, especially when cultural differences exist. This is franchises,” said Dr. Sulaiman T. Al-Abduljader, chairman of the passengers squabble over airhostesses, and want to play it frustrating (to the entrepreneur) because you have to convince the safe and ensure a smooth flight? This news reminded me of Kuwait investment firm, REMAS, which recently acquired rights to franchisor why something needs to be changed or added. But some Cavalli Caffe and opened it at Grand Avenues. “However,” continued things will not work in Kuwait and so it’s important that the fran- a theatre play called: “No Sex Please, We’re British.” Now, I Dr. Sulaiman, who is also head of Finance and Economics at GUST, chisor have an open mind.” say: “No lipstick please, we’re Turkish!” Whatever you “for such a major investment we are not risking anything. All the Why a soft opening? decide, Turkish Airlines, I wish you good luck! details for the restaurant are furnished for us by the franchisor,” and Cavalli, for example, didn’t understand why their Kuwait fran- that includes the branded cutlery. chisee insisted on a “soft opening.” The franchisor preferred a grand Calculated risk takers opening where the customers pay for their food. Most franchisors Even though Dr. Sulaiman and his partners are capable of select- are likely to think that a “soft opening,” where diners eat free, is a ing cutlery, and even though he prefers independent ownership waste of money, not to mention a loss of the royalties the franchisor over buying a franchise, he realized something far more important. would collect. After all, the franchisor has spent years perfecting its “We are not experts in fine dining restaurants,” he explained, “so for system, including its menu, so the restaurant doesn’t need a try out. this type of investment we required a brand name. If it’s a worth- “They wanted us to go for perfection and just open our doors for while brand then it will add value and quality to our relationship, business,” continued Dr. Sulaiman, “but we insisted on a soft open- and in that case we are willing to let the franchisor dictate to us.” In ing because we knew it would be appreciated in Kuwait.” It would entrepreneur-speak, that’s called calculated risk taking, and it’s a also be worth the expense to get critical feedback. As Dr. Sulaiman tremendous strength. explained, when Kuwaitis know a restaurant is in soft opening, they Reasonable people might be asking right about now, “Why understand that mistakes will be made and they won’t be shy to would anyone invest millions of dollars in a business that they know point them out. But once the restaurant opens for business, so little about? Owning a restaurant is risky, so why invest in one if Kuwaitis will not freely criticize the restaurant. “During our two you’re not an expert?” Well, that’s what entrepreneurs do. However, week soft opening we served close to 1,000 guests (including most of them make matters riskier by failing to recognize their limi- Kuwaitis and expats) and we received valuable comments and other tations and insisting on making all the decisions, including selecting data that helped us make changes and adjustments,” said Dr. the cutlery! Sulaiman. In fact, a franchisor isn’t likely to allow a franchisee to Filling a gap make changes without in-depth, and costly, data. REMAS’s determi- As to why REMAS would step outside of its expertise and open a nation, and Cavalli’s open mindedness, speak well for the future fine dining restaurant in Kuwait, Dr. Sulaiman offered a reasonable success of this collaboration. explanation. “People in Kuwait know fine dining,” he said. “When But don’t take my word for it. Cavalli Caffe has now officially Kuwaitis travel we go to the hotel concierge and ask for the best opened its doors for business, i.e. you will pay for your food! Go see restaurants. Worldwide, and especially in Europe and the USA, what you think, and don’t be shy with your critique. Like the best of we’ve experienced fine dining. But in Kuwait, that level of cuisine is entrepreneurs, Dr. Sulaiman wants to know what you really think, under-served. Kuwait has many mid-range restaurants, but fine din- right down to the choice of cutlery. ing is limited. We have recognized this gap for several years and we’ve been looking for an opportunity to fill the gap.” Thus, the Dr John P Hayes is the head of Business Administration at GUST and he investors decided Cavalli Caffe was the answer. conducts training programs for numerous local companies. Contact Dr. For years, the name Cavalli represented quality in the fashion Hayes at [email protected], or via Twitter @drjohn- industry, and more recently the brand has become an opportunity hayes. KUWAIT: It is the weekend- the time of outdoor activi- ties. — Photo by Yasser Al-Zayyat

Local FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

By Nawara Fattahova It was surprising when Al-Hajiri stated that some male partici- pants joined classes to lose weight. “The classes are not purely any women love playing football and are interested in football classes; there are other physical exercises too. So people Mpracticing this sport, but they do not have enough oppor- come here to be fit, lose weight, and enjoy playing football as well. tunities in Kuwait to do so. Although some clubs had People weigh themselves before starting and then weigh again some provision for women to play football, it was not enough. But after a few weeks. They are pleased with the result. I think many now such women can practice their hobby at the Fitfootball club, women as well will come to enjoy fitness in a friendly and fun envi- Rawya Al-Hajiri situated close to the Kuwait Towers on the seaside. ronment,” she pointed out. The club started three years ago, when it was just for men. For women, there are two professional trainers from the ting at home. After finishing training they go home, have a good Later, the kids category was added. Last Tuesday Fitfootball Fawziya Al-Sultan Rehabilitation Institute, which has a partnership dinner, and go to sleep with a clear mind. It’s better than taking launched the women’s category, becoming the first club to offer with Fitfootball. One of them is for football training and the other your problems to bed, and waking up the other morning with football training for women in Kuwait. “Today is the first day of is for physical training. headache,” Salmeen further said. women’s football classes and 14 women have joined us. Many Xsenia is the football coach training women and boys aged 5-8 The participants will experience an environment which will Kuwaiti women love football, and used to play inside chalets. But years old. “I trained the women today, and the class is two hours motivate, challenge and inspire them to meet and exceed their now they can enjoy practicing it outside with two coaches,” Rawya long. But, I think it’s more challenging with the kids. The women targets and achieve their goals. “It’s a unique opportunity for per- Al-Hajiri, Managing Director of Fitfootball, told the Kuwait Times. were great and they worked hard. They are also more committed sonal growth and socialization. If you want to have fun while being Fitfootball offers a unique football experience, as it brings as they come to enjoy their time. But some kids are forced by their physically healthy, Fitfootball is the program that will suit you. together the best of both worlds by combining football with phys- parents to come and don’t like to play, so they are not very inter- Titles and prizes are awarded to the best players in each group. ical fitness. “We believe football can also be undertaken as a ested in this activity,” she stated. The best time for learning football is at an early age. Getting weight loss program. Exercise is a vital component of losing Fitness coach Ma’aali Salmeen, who also provides training in youngsters involved in football at an early age can help them get weight, and you get plenty of it by playing football. Our experi- street fighting, noted that football and fitness training also off to a productive start. The best age to develop physical skills is enced trainers and coaches will stimulate players both technically improves the psychological health of the participants. “Playing from 4-12. This is the time when kids develop their motor skills. and tactically by putting them into concrete game situations, football doesn’t mean that the women lose their femininity. Even Youth football programs give them an early opportunity to show enhancing the player’s overall game ability. Since we started, we street fighting is for self-defense. Women should be strong their natural talent while learning football. They will learn essen- have already had about 1,500 men and kids that took classes at enough to feel confident to be able to defend themselves in case tial skills like teamwork, work ethic and tackling and blocking tech- our club,” she added. they are attacked. But they can still retain their femininity. Going to niques. They will also improve coordination, flexibility and quick- “We haven’t set the timetable for the classes yet. It might be the gym for workouts is boring, so woman come here to work out ness while having fun and staying safe,” stressed Al-Hajiri. one to two classes per week, depending on the number of partici- and combine it with football to have fun. If a woman leaves this Fitfootball organizes football-related events for individuals and pants. Registration is open for women of all ages and nationalities. place looking the same as when she came, then I know that the corporate services, such as organizing sports days for companies During the women’s classes, the place is closed to all except training didn’t work properly. She must sweat and shouldn’t have and their employees, as well as for tournaments and other events. women so they can feel comfortable to practice and play freely. to bother herself with checking if everything is in place,” she said. Each class includes a maximum of 25 men, and the club currently Even the driver who takes them to the club is a woman,” explained “Training also means socializing, as they meet new people and hold three classes for men each week. The season is always for four Al-Hajiri. improve their mood. It’s better than going to a psychiatric or sit- months and then there is a break. Local FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Part of Anthony’s collection Little ʻgoldilocksʼ collector, now a ʻbusinessmanʼ By Ben Garcia politics of the world. He wants to be an actor English School. His father is from Britain and legally before he could be allowed to stay or and become a famous chef like ‘James Oliver’ his mother is a native Kuwaiti. Kuwait’s nation- live in Kuwait where his Kuwaiti wife was born. t first he collected car models. Then it one day. However, he also wants to become a ality law denies Kuwaiti women married to As a teenage boy, Anthony is not bothered Agradually became boring. He started pilot and fly a big aircraft. “I imagined piloting non-Kuwaiti men the right to pass on their though he does sometimes ask questions. “I collecting old coins. This also did not all of these aircrafts I have in my collections. nationality to their children and spouses, a used to ask my parents regarding my status hold his interest for too long. With time, he I play a lot with them since I find happiness right Kuwait men married to foreign spouses but they told me, I have a British-born father, found collecting airplane models very satisfy- and peace seeing my collection. I just love have. so I am not a Kuwaiti. Gradually, I stopped ask- ing. Very soon, the models that he collected them. If I stop liking any of the models, or if Foreign husbands of Kuwaiti women have ing,” he said. reached into hundreds. Some of his friends become fed up with a particular aircraft model no legal right to remain in the country without Anthony was born in the United States liked his hobby. In fact, when they used to see or I need space, I sell them,” he laughed. a residency permit. That is why his father back in 2000. He moved to Kuwait with his his collection, they used to be so amazed that Anthony is a grade seven student at the New needs to get a residency permit or work here parents when he was four. “My mother wants some would return home with one model to spend his life here. I like it here. I like the from his collection. That made him think that sun, I like the summer. I like the people I meet instead of him buying and then giving these every day. I made many friends here. But I see away, he should be selling these models to his myself becoming a successful actor and a classmates. singer,” he quipped. Like other children from Meet Anthony Romello Salandy, a British- his school, he likes to play rugby and basket- Kuwaiti boy, of 12 years of age, who once was ball. But at 12, his body is quite robust, some- an avid collector and hobbyist but is now a lit- thing that most Kuwaiti children have. “How tle but very smart businessman. He started can you enjoy harsh weather outdoors? I really collecting these models with his own pocket like to enjoy and play with my peers, but can- money when he was ten, though his hobby of not, because of the weather. So I am stuck collecting airplane models started when he indoors,” he smiled. was six. “When I used to travel with my par- Asked for his advice to would be collectors, ents, I used to ask them to buy me some of the Anthony said, they should be smart enough to airplane models displayed at the airport to select only the best ones. “I only seek out an add to my collection,” he stated. airplane model which is beautiful. If I like a Most of his collection reflected his personal model of an airplane that I cannot afford, I ask choices, but some were given to him by fami- my parents to buy me one. Collect only the ly, friends and some as gifts. “When friends of best and if there are vintage models, or some my mom or dad discovered I was collecting very old models, go for these as these could airplane models, they began giving these to add a particular flavor to your collection,” he me and each of them contributed one or even said. Though this is a bit early, he thinks he two,” Anthony beamed. Just like any other would become a successful businessman one child, Anthony is jolly and playful. But he likes day, but again, a chef and an actor, too, at the reading books, especially about history and Anthony Romello Salandy same time. Local FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Unemployment a time-bomb Court acquits opposition tweeter

By B Izzak The officials said that out of the 19,500 Kuwaitis list- They also called for starting the privatization ed as unemployed, there are 5,100 females aged 40 program but by safeguarding the rights of KUWAIT: State Minister for Cabinet Affairs Sheikh and above and 8,751 holding intermediate degrees Kuwaiti employees and for creating real job Mohammad Al-Abdullah Al-Sabah described the and lower. MPs however expressed reservations at the opportunities and to accelerate measures to unemployment problem as a time-bomb, but said that government measures regarding unemployment. MP transform Kuwait into a financial and trade hub. unemployment rate among Kuwaitis this year is just Nasser Al-Marri said Kuwait government needs around During the debate, some MPs clashed with State 4.9 percent which includes some job seekers who 9,000 jobs annually and the number of jobs available Minister for Development Affairs Rula Dashti were offered jobs but refused it. Speaking during a in the private sector every year is 109,000 but the pri- over allegations that she has appointed non- special session to discuss unemployment among citi- vate sector has fired 1,750 Kuwaitis. Kuwaitis in key posts. The minister denied the zens, Sheikh Mohammad said that around 19,500 MP Ahmad Lari said the government has not allegations. Kuwaitis are currently listed as unemployed. answered several questions about unemployment In another development, the criminal court yes- He vowed that the government will do anything especially why Kuwaitis seek jobs in the public sector terday acquitted opposition activist Sager Al- possible to resolve the problem and provide jobs to all and shun private jobs. He said the government has not Hashash from charges that he insulted the Amir Kuwaitis seeking employment. Officials of the Civil provided any strategy to resolve the unemployment and undermined his authorities through remarks Service Commission said that 82,000 expatriates are problem, adding that there is no true will to resolve on his Twitter in October last year. Judge Adnan Al- among 325,000 people employed by the government, the problem. At the end of the debate, MPs passed Jasser pointed out that there has been no evidence with most of the expatriates concentrated in the min- non-binding recommendations calling for speeding that Hashash meant the Amir in his tweets. Earlier istries of health and education. They also said the state up the activation of a law stipulating unemployment in the week, the appeals court cut Hashash two- paid around KD1.7 billion between 2001 and the end benefits and for continuing to pay salaries for Kuwaitis year jail term to just one year for similar charges of last month on social and children allowances for dismissed by private sector businesses following the but in another case. The activist is also on trial in a 58,000 Kuwaitis employed in the private sector. global financial crisis. third case. Kuwait families may allocate 10% budgets to electronics Internet providers urged to re-think over extravagant fees

KUWAIT: With the fast pace of technical gizmos appear- store customers were Kuwaitis, many of whom he said ing on the shelves of electronic stores, it has become a were swayed by glitzy advertisements from high tech costly obsession of many Kuwaitis to keep buying the manufacturers. — KUNA latest iteration of a cell phone or an IPad or a laptop, often straining their budgets to do so. It has been esti- mated that Kuwaiti families spend from 5 to 10 percent ‘Marry me or you of their budgets on acquiring high tech products or pay- ing bills to keep them operating or paying charges for return my money’ downloading software, etc. A lot of Kuwaitis, particularly young ones, can’t seem KUWAIT: to do with one cell phone, opting to keep two or more “Make her either marry me or return my which of course means they have to pay extra to keep money,” a Kuwaiti man told the Shamiya police as he them all running and operational. Wishing to dig a little begged for help and even offered to give his beloved deeper to find out what people think about acquiring more money if she agreed to marry him. According to high tech products, KUNA went around the governorates the man, he came to know a divorced woman and fell of Hawalli and Farwaniya to check out the electronic in love to an extent that he was prepared to do any- stores in those areas where it met with a number of buy- thing to marry her. Taking advantage of his infatua- ers and store salespeople. tion, the woman asked for KD 50,000 but when he KISR’s section at Geneva exhibition. One such buyer at an electronics store, Yousif Al- asked her whether she wanted anything else, she Khaldi, voiced amazement at some Kuwaiti families that asked him to ‘get lost’. “I am still willing to marry her if she agrees,” said the man. The woman is being sum- shelled out about KD150 (about $400) a month to pay for Kuwait promotes efforts moned for further investigations. Internet charges, citing the fact that these charges are against organic pollutants much lower in other countries. He appealed to Internet Juvenile sodomized providers to re-think their extravagant monthly fees on A young police officer of the rank of First Kuwaiti families that often get the Internet to help their GENEVA: Kuwait Institute for Scientific gy and management of pollutants’ Lieutenant was recently arrested along with a juvenile children with their school work. Research (KISR) has underlined its activi- waste. The center has coordinated with whom he had been sodomizing inside a vehicle at A student, Fahad Al-Enizi, while acknowledging the ties and accomplishments at an interna- the United Nations Industrial Mubarak hospital’s parking lot, security sources said. benefits of laptops and IPads and smart phones to stu- tional workshop currently held on Development Organization (UNIDO) to Case papers indicated that a police patrol caught the dents who might resort to them in doing, say, their means to combat hazardous substances establish a forum for Arab Gulf states on duo red handed. The officer admitted to sodomising homework, nevertheless wished that high tech manufac- namely organic pollutants. KISR partici- employment of technology and best the boy. A case was filed. turers updated their products even faster than they cur- pated in the event, alongside with the means for disposal of organic pollutants rently do, which brings up the point of just why do peo- regional center of the Stockholm waste of industrial origin. The Kuwait- Manager threatened ple get the latest edition of say a smartphone, that they Convention on Persistent Organic based center had organized two consul- A section manager at the Surra phone PBX center had purchased only a few months ago. This penchant to complained that a policeman insulted and threatened Pollutants for the West-Asia region and tative meetings with regional founda- get the absolute latest version of a high tech product delegations of more than 190 signatory tions to study plans for coping with him at his office, security sources said. The manager seems to tax the pockets of many people, said Al-Enizi. said earlier too, he had received a threat from one of states of the Basel, Rotterdam and organic waste. He noted with some surprise that youngsters showed Stockholm conventions on combating Dr Lulwa also mentioned that KISR his employees for having punished her for violating the greatest degree of desire to get high tech products work regulations. He added that the woman became hazardous chemical materials and sub- had conducted scientific studies on because they tap into social network features available stances. organizing pollutants in the air, potential very angry, insulted him and then called the police. As to them on these products such as facebook, twitter, and a result, a policeman showed up and threatened him. The institute set up a national pavil- resources in Kuwait and contamination instagram. Hamad Al-Mutairi, an employee, said that ion at the exhibition. Dr Lulwa Nasser Ali, caused by inner parts of vehicles. The A case was filed and both the woman and the police- numerous Kuwaiti families bore not only the monthly man were being summoned for further investigations. KISR’s coordinator of the regional center signatory states of the Stockholm fees for the use of high tech products but also the fees for West Asia, briefed Jim Willis, the exec- Convention selected KISR, in 2009, to be for such services as whatsapp and tango and viber used ‘Wanted man’ nabbed utive secretary of the secretariat of the one of the regional centers of the con- profusely by their servants at home who use them to A citizen, wanted in nine cases, was recently arrested three conventions, while inspecting the vention, considering its eminent scientif- speak to their families abroad. in Sulaibikhat, security sources said, noting that the Kuwaiti pavilion about the center efforts ic status at the regional level and experi- Electronic store salesman Sheikh Shakoor noted suspect was stopped just by chance at a check point - namely its organization of four regional ence in studying resources of pollution. that chief among his sales were cell phones and smart where he betrayed nervousness. Sources said he scientific workshops for building poten- The Kuwaiti delegation taking part in the phones followed by I Pads. He said there was stiff drove off quickly but was chased by the police till he tials in the realm of organizing pollu- workshops included figures from KISR, competition among electronic stores to sell these abandoned the car and began running. Eventually, tants. Environment Public Authority, Kuwait products. Another salesman, Mansour Abd Rabboh, he took refuge inside a house but was turned in by These workshops had tackled various General Administration of Customs and said his average monthly sale of such products ran the landlord. issues including - the usage of technolo- the Foreign Ministry. — KUNA between 70 and 100 items and that 80 percent of his Local FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Kuwait urges Havana to KTS to celebrate safeguard ‘right of living’ Thalassemia Day KUWAIT: Kuwait Thalassemia Society (KTS) is set to celebrate the World Thalassemia Day tomorrow, with Kuwait donates $500,000 to IOM plans of hosting entertainment events for children suffering the disease. GENEVA: Kuwait asked Cuban govern- trates the tremendous efforts that have the organization immediately after the KTS secretary Dr Sundus Al-Shereeda said that the ment yesterday in front of the United been exerted to ensure bolstering of liberation of Kuwait, where it provided Nation for Human Rights council to safe- human rights, as well as realizing a “large assistance in the preparation of plans event, which will be at Baroue store in Discovery guard “right of living” for its natives as a part of objectives specified for the mil- and programs for the displaced and had Mall, aims to put a smile on the faces of children who state policy priority, namely at times of lennium by fall of 2015.” a major role in solving a lot of problems. suffer continuously of needles pain and blood trans- coping with diverse catastrophes, as well In another development, Kuwait’s He also recalled its role during natural fer. Thalassemia is a form of inherited recessive as pursuing cooperation with other permanent representative to the United disasters in Africa and some countries in blood disorder caused by the weakening and countries in the health field. The State of Nations and international organizations Latin America and Asian regions. destruction of red blood cells, requiring that patients Kuwait welcomes positive measures that Ambassador Dharar Abdul Razak He noted that Kuwait’s donations to receive blood transfers about every two weeks. The have been taken by Cuba since it pre- Rezouqi said yesterday that Kuwait’s United Nations organizations with disease is usually discovered in children less than sented the last report in this respect at donation of $500,000 to the humanitarian objectives such as UNHCR two years old. The symptoms include paleness, and the council, said the advisor of the International Organization for Migration or WHO and others complement each enlargement of both liver and spleen. Kuwaiti mission, Malek Hussein Al- (IOM) aims to strengthen its role in the other within the framework of the work “Thalassemia can cause bone deformities if Wazzan, in a speech addressed at the UN crisis areas in which it operates. Speaking of these organizations in many areas, patients did not receive proper medical care, which council session, held for regular review to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) follow- especially in the Arab and Islamic coun- could lead to changes in the face features,” Al- of Cuba’s file in the field of human rights. ing a meeting with the Director-General tries. He said that the UN has always Shereeda warned, noting that current treatments Al-Wazzan praised Cuba for “method- of the Organization William Swing, extolled Kuwait’s pioneering role in sup- include blood transfer and the intake of iron supple- ical and transparent” manner of prepar- Rezouqi praised the role of the organiza- porting humanitarian work at various ments. ing the national report in this respect, tion in a number of Arab countries in levels as reflected in the praise of the Al-Shereeda said that the Head of the thus reflecting its abidance by the rele- particular and has played an effective results of the International Donors’ Scientific Committee in the society Dr Najat vant assurances as well as “boosting role in acute crises similar those which Conference under the auspices of His Rouhaldeen formed a new team, consisting of 12 human rights,” in addition to its fruitful occurred in Libya, in addition to its con- Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- psychiatrics who volunteered to morally support cooperation with international organiza- tinuous role in Sudan and the Horn of Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and its suc- patients and their families to face challenges of tions at this level. Cuba’s report illus- Africa.He also recalled the historic role of cess. — Agencies this disease. — KUNA

Japan’s AOC to sell Norway upstream unit to Kuwait TOKYO: Japan’s AOC Holdings said yesterday its upstream unit, Arabian Oil Co, has agreed to sell the entire stake in its Norwegian operations to Kuwait Foreign Petroleum Exploration Company (Kufpec). The sale, whose value was not disclosed, will give the wholly-owned unit of state oil firm Kuwait Petroleum Company access to a 5 percent stake in the producing Gyda oil field and a 10 percent stake in the trou- bled Yme oil field, both in the North Sea off Norway. AOC, which in February projected net loss of 7.7 billion yen ($79.10 million) for the fiscal year ended in March, said it may post an additional loss of around 6 billion yen from the sale. The deal is likely to be finalized in June after Norwegian government approval, the company added. AOC had been looking to sell its stake in the Yme field. It is also trying to find a buyer for a 50-per- cent stake in the Northwest October block in the Gulf of Suez in Egypt, which is unlikely to Crisis management course produce oil anytime soon. The Japanese firm in December announced plans to effectively pull KUWAIT: The National Security College’s Department. The course which was ence of the National Security College’s out of upstream oil and gas development by Leaders Preparation Centre yesterday organized under the aegis of the MOI’s assistant dean, Brigadier Fauzi Al- transferring its upstream business employees to concluded its fourth Crisis Management assistant undersecretary for training and Suwailam and the manager of the Leaders’ JX Nippon Oil & Gas Exploration, which has Training Course held for senior leaders education affairs, Lt General Ahmed Preparation Center, Colonel Nasser been seeking to expand its business. — Reuters from the National Guards, the Customs Nawaf Al-Ahmed also witnessed the pres- Ibrahim Al-Houtti. 2013-No Haj for expats

KUWAIT: Undersecretary of the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic affairs Dr Adel Al-Falah announced that the pilgrimage supreme committee tends to use the whole Kuwait quota of pilgrims this year for Kuwaitis only. Speaking form Jeddah, Al-Falah said that the 8000 quota would be allocated to bedoons and some exceptions would be made for expats with Kuwaiti relatives. Al-Falah justified this to the limited quota allocated by Saudi Hajj authorities per country in view of the expansion and construction works going on at the Holy Mosque in Makkah. FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Indian ‘spy’ dies in Pakistan

NEW DELHI: Dalbir Kaur, sister of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian death row prisoner who died in Pakistan, gestures as she addresses media representatives yesterday. — AFP

LAHORE: An Indian man on death the clock... to save his life,” the for- row in Pakistan for spying died yes- eign ministry said. terday nearly a week after he was The government provided “all attacked by fellow prisoners, who assistance” to Singh’s family and the were swiftly charged with murder as Indian authorities, and will facilitate New Delhi demanded justice. “the early completion of all formali- Sarabjit Singh, who was sentenced ties” and hand over his body “at the 16 years ago over deadly bombings, earliest possible” time, it added in a died in the early hours as a result of statement. Singh’s lawyer Owais the savage assault in Lahore’s Kot Sheikh said his body had been Lakhpat jail, a senior doctor at moved to the hospital mortuary. Jinnah hospital in the eastern city The doctor said arrangements were told AFP. The 49-year-old went into under way for an autopsy. Two pris- a coma after suffering numerous oners were taken into custody serious injuries when six prisoners immediately after the attack and attacked him on April 26, hitting have now been charged with his him on the head with bricks and murder, police official Tariq fracturing his skull. “The criminals Mehmood told AFP. responsible for the barbaric and The motive was unclear, but murderous attack on Sarabjit Singh Pakistani police say an initial investi- must be brought to justice,” Indian gation pointed to an exchange of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh “hot words” with Singh. Sheikh said said on his official Twitter page. his client had received threats fol- India complained that its diplo- lowing the execution of Kashmiri mats were denied access to the pris- separatist Mohammed Afzal Guru in oner as he fought for his life, and India. Pakistani analysts doubted the premier said it was “particularly the death would have a significant regrettable” that Pakistan had not impact on tense relations between responded to appeals “to take a New Delhi and Islamabad, nuclear- humanitarian view of this case”. The armed neighbours. “It may increase prime minister added that New tension for a while as the hawks in Delhi would make the necessary India could put pressure on the arrangements to bring his body Indian Congress (ruling party) to home for funeral rites, after earlier criticise Pakistan for lack of securi- negotiations to treat the jailed spy ty,” retired lieutenant general Talat in India or a third country failed. Masood told AFP. There were angry protests in Singh’s But Indian Foreign Minister native Bhikhiwind village in north- Salman Khurshid told reporters in ern Punjab state, where Pakistan Delhi that the India-Pakistan rela- flags were burned. tionship had been hurt by this “ter- Narendra Modi, a senior leader rible tragedy”. Parliament’s lower in India’s opposition Bharatiya house was adjourned in uproar yes- Janata Party, told an election rally in terday as Speaker Meira Kumar southern Mangalore: “I directly moved a resolution condemning blame the government of Pakistan the “inhuman treatment” of Singh. for the murder of Sarabjit Singh. It is Singh was convicted for his alleged an extrajudicial killing.” Pakistan involvement in a string of bomb insists regular consular access was attacks in Pakistan’s Punjab granted to Singh and said doctors province that killed 14 people in did everything possible to save him 1990. His mercy petitions were before his death from cardiac arrest. rejected by the courts and former “The prisoner, who had been in a president Pervez Musharraf. comatose state and on a ventilator His family insisted he was a for the last few days, was being pro- farmer who became a victim of mis- vided the best treatment available taken identity after inadvertently and the medical staff at Jinnah straying across the border while Hospital had been working round drunk. —AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Gaddafi son Saif al-Islam appears in court

ZINTAN, Libya: Saif al-Islam, a son of poned until Sept 19 because the defence’s great deal of evidence and documentation to statements. “No one can say whether he will deposed Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, case was incomplete. convince them we are able,” Jehani told get the death penalty,” he said when asked if appeared in court yesterday in the town of The ICC lawyer, Australian Melinda Taylor, Reuters, adding that the dossier included Saif al-Islam was at risk of being executed in Zintan, where he had been held since his cap- was herself detained for three weeks after a medical reports, confessions and witness Libya. “It is up to the judge,” he added. ture by former rebels in Nov 2011. Saif al- meeting in which Saif al-Islam is accused of Senussi was handed over to Libya by Islam, at the centre of a legal tussle between handing over sensitive papers and informa- Mauritania in September after his arrest in Libya and the International Criminal Court tion. Taylor has said her detention proved Saif Nouakchott in March 2011 started a tug of (ICC), smiled and told reporters he was in al-Islam could not get a fair trial in Libya. ICC war between Libya, France and the ICC for his good health during his brief appearance. The lawyers also note that he could face the death extradition. Jehani said Taylor, the ICC lawyer, powerful armed group in Zintan, which spear- penalty if convicted in the North African state who was among the 13 charged in Zintan yes- headed the capture of Tripoli from Gaddafi’s - an outcome that would be welcome to terday, could be tried in absentia. The ICC, forces in Aug 2011, has insisted on keeping many Libyans who suffered under Gaddafi’s which is only allowed to try cases if national Saif al-Islam imprisoned in the town, about 42-year rule and in the revolt that toppled legal systems are unable or unwilling to deal 140 km southwest of the Libyan capital. him. with them, declined to comment on the pro- Once Gaddafi’s presumed heir, Saif al-Islam Libya, which wants to try Saif al-Islam itself, ceedings in Zintan. is wanted by the ICC on war crimes charges, has yet to indict him for war crimes, although The president of Libya’s Human Rights but the case to be heard in Zintan relates to the public prosecutor has said a case is being Commission pointed to Saif al-Islam’s appear- charges that he gave information to an ICC prepared and will soon go to court. Libyan ance as an indication he was being looked lawyer last year that could endanger national lawyer Ahmed al-Jehani, who liaises between after in jail and could be tried fairly within the security. He was the only defendant of 13 the ICC and the Tripoli government, said he ZINTAN, Libya: Saif al-Islam, son of Libyaís country. “As you can see he is in good health... people who were called to appear in court on expected the ICC to decide in May whether late dictator Muammar Gaddafi, looks on in I can assure you he is being treated well and I those charges, confirming he was in the room Libya can handle Saif al-Islam’s trial and that the accusedís cell as he stands trial yester- wish that all of Libya’s detainees could have when his name was called out and that his of Gaddafi’s former intelligence chief day for illegally trying to communicate with the same treatment,” Mohammad Al-Alagi lawyers were present. The case was then post- Abdullah Al-Senussi. “We have submitted a the outside world in June last year. — AFP told a news conference in Zintan. — Reuters Tunisia hunting Chad foils ‘coup’ jihadists near Opposition lawmaker among arrestees Algeria border

N’DJAMENA: Chad has arrested a group TUNIS: Tunisian security forces were yesterday hunting of people for conspiring in what the two armed jihadist groups near the Algerian border, the government described as a “destabilisa- interior ministry said, as the authorities battle an Islamist threat that has grown increasingly dangerous. “There are tion plot” in the landlocked central two groups, one of about 15 to 20 people in Mount African country, which has a history of Chaambi... Another group is in the Kef region near the instability. The government serving Algerian border,” ministry spokesman Mohamed Ali Aroui under President Idris Deby Itno, who told AFP. “There are no (direct) clashes taking place. We are himself came to power in a 1990 coup, combing the region with guns,” he added. A security said a “small group” was involved while source said on Wednesday that troops clashed with around police and opposition sources said one 50 armed jihadists in the Chaambi region, which is com- of the detainees was an opposition law- pletely surrounded by the army, with the group compris- maker. The situation appeared calm in ing both Tunisians and Algerians. the Chadian capital yesterday, with resi- A defence ministry source was unable to give more dents going about their usual day-to- details about those targeted in the operation, or about the day activities normally. A police source second group in the Kef region, around 100 km to the said soldiers and civilians also took part north. “I have no idea about their number. The Chaambi in the alleged plot. region is huge. We are in the process of trying to track “A small group of ill-intentioned indi- them down. For the moment no one has been arrested,” viduals attempted to carry out a desta- Colonel Mokhtar Ben Naceur told AFP. Tunisian forces have bilisation plot against the institutions of been hunting for the group holed up in the mountainous the republic,” the government said in a western region since Monday. The authorities have statement Wednesday. The government described them only as “terrorists”. said the army had “neutralised” the In the operation to flush them out, around 15 soldiers group and that the arrested ringleaders and members of the national guard have already been wounded, some seriously, by homemade landmines laid had been handed over to prosecutors YAMOUSSOUKRO: File photo taken on Feb 27, 2013 shows Chadís President by the gunmen in parts of the border region. Asked about for investigation. “This small group... had Idriss Deby Itno arriving to attend an ECOWAS Heads of State ordinary summit cooperation with Algeria, the colonel said that Tunisia’s been conspiring for more than four at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Foundation. — AFP months to jeopardise the country’s neighbour was assisting but only at the level of intelli- hard-won peace,” it said. poorest nations, has had a history of 2,000 troops to Mali to contribute to a gence-sharing. Between 2005 and 2010, the former instability. In March 2006, the govern- French-led military offensive to dislodge “When there is concrete information, it is shared. There French colony was wracked by civil war. ment said soldiers and police had Islamist extremists who had seized large is no joint action on the ground,” he said. The defence min- On Saturday, Deby told Radio France thwarted a bid to overthrow Deby’s swathes of the north last year. Its parlia- istry said on Wednesday that no direct fighting had taken place and that troops were demining the mountain with Internationale that “mercenaries”, cur- regime and kill him by shooting down ment voted this month to gradually the help of “small arms and mortars.” But the area covers rently in Libya’s second largest city his aircraft. The regime has also faced withdraw the troops, which are highly Benghazi, were trying to “regroup around 100 sq km, 60 of which are forested. rebellions in the last few years, especial- trained, well equipped and experienced Since the mass uprising that toppled Zine El Abidine Chadians”. A police source said that ly in the east of the country, which bor- in desert warfare. Analysts saw Deby’s Ben Ali in Jan 2011, radical Islamists suppressed by the for- “several civilians and soldiers, including ders the Sudanese region of Darfur. deployment of the largest African force mer dictator have become increasingly assertive and been Saleh Makki,” an opposition lawmaker, In 2008 rebels from the border region to Mali as a bid to carve out a role as a blamed for a wave of deadly attacks across the country. had been arrested Monday. Opposition came close to overthrowing the Deby force for regional stability. Members of the armed forces involved in the search have leader Saleh Kebzabo said in an email to regime, briefly entering the capital But ousted Central African Republic told media that the Mount Chaambi group is well-armed AFP that he received reports of “numer- before being pushed back with the help (CAR) leader Francois Bozize accused his and organised, with some saying veteran Islamist militants ous” arrests in the capital N’Djamena of French forces. Deby himself first came former Chadian allies in neighbouring who fought in northern Mali are among them. The current and that “several sources” had con- to power in a coup in December 1990 Chad of militarily backing the rebels government, led by the moderate Islamist party Ennahda, firmed to him that Makki was among when he overthrew Hissen Habre, who who unseated him in March. Chad, has fully recognised the jihadist threat facing Tunisia, warn- those arrested. seized power in 1982 after a two-year which had months ago ordered troops ing that groups linked to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb France yesterday said it had noted civil war. Deby had been Habre’s mili- into the CAR to act as a buffer against were infiltrating its borders. But it has been strongly criti- the latest events in Chad “with concern”, tary adviser. Six years later he won the the rebels, denies the charge. Congolese cised by the opposition, who accuse Ennahda of failing to and called on the country’s government sub-Saharan nation’s first multi-party officials said Chad’s foreign minister rein in Islamist militants, or facing up to the threat they and opposition to engage in “calm and presidential election since independ- attend a meeting yesterday in pose too late, despite the security problems they have constructive dialogue” with each other. ence from France in 1960. Brazzaville to discuss the crisis in the caused since the revolution. —AFP Chad, once known as one of the world’s Earlier this year, Chad sent around Central African Republic. — AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Japan signs nuke cooperation deal with UAE

ABU DHABI: Japan and the United nership with a South Korean consor- Arab Emirates signed yesterday a tium, as part of plans to produce elec- nuclear cooperation agreement during tricity from 2017. a visit by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Despite being a major oil exporter, who stressed Tokyo’s cooperation with the UAE has opted to develop nuclear its Middle East partners. Abe is on a power, seeing it as a proven, environ- regional tour he began in Saudi Arabia, mentally promising and commercially in a push to sell Japanese nuclear tech- competitive source of electricity. With nologies. The cooperation agreement four plants scheduled to be opera- over a peaceful use of nuclear energy tional by 2020, the UAE hopes that was signed in Dubai, in the presence of nuclear energy would provide up to a Abe and UAE Prime Minister Sheikh quarter of its electricity needs, which Mohammed bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, are forecast to soar to 40 gigawatts WAM state news agency said. The UAE from 15.5 currently. Japanese foreign also agreed to extend an oil concession ministry spokesman Yutaka Yokol told agreement with Japan’s Abu Dhabi Oil reporters that Tokyo will “provide a Co. adding a new zone, WAM said. small part of the technology for the facility,” which is being built by a South Making his second visit to the Gulf DUBAI: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe stands with Sheikh Mohamed bin Korean consortium. country as prime minister, Abe arrived Rashid Al-Maktoum, ruler of Dubai and UAE prime minister yesterday. — AP late on Wednesday in the UAE, Japan’s A Japanese-French consortium has eighth largest world economic partner, won a $22 billion contract to build a while the oil-rich country’s liquefied tries in the region,” adding that “stabili- to take part in a Japan-UAE Business nuclear power plant on Turkey’s Black natural gas production has been used ty and prosperity of the Middle East is Forum. Abe announced at the forum Sea coast, a senior energy ministry offi- to generate electricity in Tokyo since directly connected to the prosperity of that Japan would sign a nuclear agree- cial said yesterday. For his part, UAE 1977, according to Mazrouei. The UAE international society and Japan.” ment with the United Arab Emirates. Energy Minister Suhail al-Mazrouei, exports 0.8 million barrels of oil to Elsewhere the Japanese foreign min- “Japan can contribute to UAE energy called for stable world oil prices at the Japan per day and 5.5 million tonnes of istry spokesman told reporters that oil supplies by means of nuclear energy forum. “We seek as an energy-produc- natural gas. “Japan can make a new exports from Iran, which is hit by inter- conservation and renewable energy,” ing country stability in world prices, to contribution to provide new energy to national sanctions over its nuclear pro- he said according to translation from enable exporting and consuming the UAE including saving energy, gramme, are becoming “dramatically Japanese. The UAE announced in mid- countries to steadily develop and build renewable energy or atomic energy,” smaller”. Japan is among 20 countries July that it would begin building two of their economies,” he said. Nearly a said Yokol. exempted from tough US sanctions four nuclear power plants - each with a third of the UAE production of crude oil Abe said Japan aims “to closely imposed on nations buying oil from capacity of 1,400 megawatts - in part- and petrol derivatives go to Japan cooperate and coordinate with coun- Iran. — AFP

Aussie held on New virus kills 5 Saudis terror charges All deaths and infections in Ahsaa province RIYADH: Five Saudis have died of a new in Saudi Arabia SARS-like virus during the past few days and two more are being treated in an SYDNEY: An Australian is being intensive care unit, the health ministry detained on terrorism-related said. In a statement cited by the Saudi charges in Saudi Arabia, Foreign SPA agency late on Wednesday, the min- Minister Bob Carr revealed yester- istry said that all the deaths as well as the day, with the man’s brother claim- infections occurred in the Ahsaa province ing he has been tortured. Shayden in the oil-rich eastern region of the king- Thorne, 25, has been held in a jail dom. Known as novel coronavirus or outside Riyadh for almost 18 hCoV-EMC, the virus was first detected in months, reportedly after a laptop, mid-2012 and is a cousin of Severe Acute which his family says he borrowed Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), which trig- from a mosque, was allegedly gered a scare 10 years ago when it erupt- found to have terrorist material on ed in east Asia, leaping to humans from it. “We know that he has been animal hosts. charged with terrorism-related hCoV-EMC stands for human coron- offences, but that is all we’ve been avirus-Erasmus Medical Centre, after the Bob Carr informed of at this stage,” Carr’s Dutch health institution that identified it. spokeswoman told AFP. The health ministry said it is taking “all RIYADH: A foreign staff nurse walks on her way to a hospital in the Saudi capi- Carr later urged a speedy resolution to the case. “We want it precautionary measures for persons who tal yesterday. — AFP resolved faster. It’s been going on for too long,” he told a media have been in contact with the infected conference, adding that 50 representations had been made on people... and has taken samples from Coronaviruses cause most common exposed to samples of the virus, the rhe- Thorne’s behalf to Saudi authorities. “I make no comment on his them to examine if they are infected.” colds and pneumonia, but are also to sus macaques fell ill within 24 hours, with innocence or guilt - we can’t do that, but we can make repre- However, the ministry gave no figures for blame for unusual conditions such as symptoms including elevated tempera- sentations on his behalf,” said the minister. But he added: “You how many people have been examined to SARS which killed more than 800 people ture, lack of appetite, coughing and fast are subject to the law of the country you are in. Shayden has see if they have the lethal disease. Sixteen when it swept out of China in 2003. The breathing. The letter is the first to chosen to live there for 12 years and the laws of Saudi Arabia people have now died from 23 cases new virus is different from SARS, in that it describe animal research on the virus. In apply to him or anyone else in his position.” The Australian detected in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, can cause rapid kidney failure. The strain March, scientists reported in Nature mag- Broadcasting Corporation said the man’s 23-year-old brother, Germany and Britain. Riyadh has account- is shrouded in mystery, and the WHO azine that the virus appears to infect the Junaid Muhammed Thorne, was also jailed for several months ed for most of the deaths, with 11 people does not yet know how it is transmitted or body via a docking point in lung cells, and after protesting against his brother’s arrest, before being including the five new fatalities. how widespread it is. The WHO said a 73- suggested that bats may be a natural released. It reported that his passport has been confiscated by In Geneva, a spokesman for the World year-old Saudi man died in Germany in reservoir for it. Saudi authorities and he was in hiding, which Carr confirmed. Health Organisation would not comment March from the lethal new virus. He had Researchers believe the virus can be Junaid said Shayden, who is originally from Perth, had been tor- on why so many of the cases have been travelling in Pakistan and Saudi transmitted from human to human, tured in prison. “When he managed to see his lawyer, he told occurred in the Saudi kingdom. “We have Arabia before falling ill, and was trans- although such occurrences appear to be him that, yes, he was beaten very badly, that he was lashed with received a formal notification from the ferred to Munich from Abu Dhabi on uncommon. Current research has been cables - many, many sorts of torture was exercised on him,” Saudis about these cases,” spokesman March 19. Six research monkeys infected limited to studying cases in people who Junaid told ABC from Saudi Arabia. “They took a very, very long Glenn Thomas told AFP. When asked if with novel human coronavirus were have been hospitalised with severe ill- time to charge him,” he added. “I mean, he stayed for a year- the WHO is planning to issue a travel found to quickly develop pneumonia, ness. It remains unknown whether the and-a-half, a total of 18 months without any charges. And then warning for Saudi Arabia, he said this was according to a letter by National Institutes disease is truly rare and acute, or if it may suddenly out of the blue came, I think, six to seven terrorist “unlikely” since “there has been no of Health experts published in the New be more abundant but mild so as to charges, which is very, very weird, with no proof at all.”—AFP change in the risk assessment.” England Journal of Medicine. After being escape detection most of the time. — AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Somalia’s war surgeons learn skills of peace MOGADISHU: Not yet named but much loved by watch- Shurkri Abdi recovers from a Caesarean section performed rattle of multiple rounds of rifle fire echoes close by. ful parents, a newly born baby boy is a small symbol of to deliver her seventh baby - and her first child born inside Shortly after, a man with gunshot wounds is rushed into change: a birth, not a death for Somalia’s key war hospital. a hospital. “I was living in the bush and I didn’t expect to the hospital for the surgeons to try to patch up. “Before, After more than two decades of bloody civil war, Somalia come to the hospital,” Abdi said, her still unnamed child when there was fighting close by, stray bullets would remains a very dangerous place, but security has slowly sleeping in a cot beside her. “But I fell down and my baby even injure people inside the hospital, bullets coming improved, with Islamist fighters linked to Al-Qaeda on the was in danger so they took me here.” For Nimo Abdi through the roof,” Hassan said, on a rare break from his back foot despite launching a deadly bombing campaign. Hassan, the doctor who delivered the child, such cases work, resting in the shade of a tree in the grounds of the For the surgeons of Medina hospital, whose specialised signal a shift in Somalia’s fortunes. “War-wounded sprawling hospital compound. “It’s better now, but still, I war wound operating theatres were set up shortly after patients only used to be received here,” she said. But since don’t know how long it will take to become a normal city.” the collapse of the government in 1991, that gradual the number of cases involving gunshot wounds or shell Still, those improvements in security have also meant reduction has meant they can start to focus on more injuries has fallen, staff are treating a greater variety of people can reach the hospital more easily, meaning the everyday health problems for the first time, and not just cases, she explained. “If peace continues, we could trans- doctors in Mogadishu are busier than ever. In 2011, heavily bomb blasts or bullet wounds. fer from an emergency hospital to a general hospital for fortified trenches and sandbag walls cut the city in two, “Medina... is the thermometer of the temperature of all cases,” she said. marking the slow street-by-street progress of the African the security in the city,” said hospital director Mohamed Always busy, overstretched surgeons rarely had time Union (AU) and Somali government troops creeping for- Yusuf Hassan. Surgeons now are tackling elective surger- for cases that emergency rooms in less-violent cities ward to wrest territory from the Shebab. Today, those front- ies - scheduled operations, not emergencies - and the would tackle, meaning many doctors simply had to drop lines are gone, after the overnight pullout of fixed positions decrease in war wounds the Mogadishu hospital treats procedures that are routine in other parts of the world. by the Shebab in Aug 2011. Student doctors once filled the shows how the “situation has improved”, he added. While Now, as the cases of war wounds diminish, doctors in medical school at Mogadishu University, but the com- the war wounded last year made up almost all of the hos- Somalia are for the first time able to start tackling com- pound is now overgrown with thick bushes, the buildings pital’s cases - 95 percent, Hassan estimates - that has now mon conditions like appendicitis, ovarian cysts or hernias. in ruins or inhabited by displaced people, and the main eased to around three-quarters. “Step by step security is “We need training... but in terms of the actual surgical grounds occupied by sandbagged positions of Burundian improving,” Hassan said, adding he hoped that in the year skills, well we have that,” Hassan said, adding his doctors troops from the AU force. “So much was destroyed in this ahead elective surgeries could rise to as many as half the are hugely experienced, even if they are not necessarily city during the years of fighting, it will take a long time to hospital’s cases. up to date with the latest techniques or know little but return to what Somalia once was,” said Abdi Shuib, a former In Somalia, however, improvements are relative. In the basic operating wards. “They have surgeon’s hands... com- history lecturer at the university, now working as a transla- emergency ward, a government soldier rests by the bed- pleting surgery after surgery with so much experience,” tor for the Burundians. In the school’s place, AU military side of a colleague, shot in the belly last week. Beds crowd he added. The World Health Organisation is supporting doctors provide a clinic for locals in need of healthcare. even the corridor, with more than a dozen people all shot efforts to train doctors like them in Somalia in the skills “Things have changed in Somalia, but I still dream of the or wounded in recent attacks by Shebab Islamist extrem- needed to treat these everyday health problems often university opening again, and training returning,” Shuib ists, or clashes between rival groups within the often vio- ignored during the years of conflict. But there is still a long said, on a break between translating for Somalis receiving lent city awash with guns. But in the obstetrics ward, way to go. Even as the hospital director speaks, the sharp medical support in a basic army tent. —AFP

60 killed in Somali famine killed 258,000 Darfur mine col Half of the dead young children NAIROBI: KHARTOUM: Almost 260,000 people, half of Dozens of people have been killed in a them young children, died of hunger dur- gold mine collapse in Sudan’s Darfur, said the chief of ing the last famine in Somalia, according the district where fighting over gold in January led to to a UN report yesterday which admitted the region’s worst unrest in years. It is not known how the world body should have done more to many people may still be missing after Monday’s acci- prevent the tragedy. The toll is much high- dent. “The number of people who died is more than er than was feared at the time of the 2010- 60,” Haroun Al-Hassan, the local commissioner in Jebel 2012 food crisis in the troubled Horn of Africa country and also exceeds the Amir, North Darfur, said yesterday, adding that rescue 220,000 who starved to death in the 1992 operations were still taking place. “I cannot give exact famine. “The report confirms we should figures because no one got precise numbers of how have done more before the famine was many people were going inside the tunnel,” which declared,” said Philippe Lazzarini, UN went down 40 metres, he said. Rescuers were using Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia. traditional tools to try to reach the victims, he said, “Warnings that began as far back as the drought in 2010 did not trigger sufficient without specifying whether anyone might still be alive. early action,” he said in a statement. “We cannot use machines because if they came near, Half of those who died were children the ground will collapse. People are using traditional under five, according to the joint report MOGADISHU: A photo taken on April 24, 2013 shows a malnourished Somali tools and because of this, the rescue is very slow,” by the UN’s Food and Agriculture baby at the Banadir hospital. — AFP Hassan said. Organization (FAO) and the US-funded Seven weeks of clashes between two Arab tribes in Famine Early Warning Systems Network. war-ravaged Mogadishu. In Lower ed by their draconian ban on most foreign Jebel Amir during January and February killed more “Famine and severe food insecurity in Shabelle 18 percent of children under five aid agencies. Somalia claimed the lives of about 258,000 died, the report said. The United Nations The aid agency Oxfam said the “deaths than 500 members of the Beni Hussein tribal group, a people between October 2010 and April declared the famine over in February could and should have been prevented”. Benni Hussein member of parliament for the area said 2012, including 133,000 children under 2012. During the famine, it was feared that “Famines are not natural phenomena, they earlier. The violence uprooted an estimated 100,000 five,” said the report, the first scientific tens of thousands had died, whereas the are catastrophic political failures,” Oxfam’s people. Fighting erupted on Jan 5 between Beni estimate of how many died. Somalia was report now shows more people died than Somalia director Senait Gebregziabher Hussein and another Arab tribe, the Rezeigat, when a the hardest hit by extreme drought in in Somalia’s 1992 famine, when an esti- said in a statement. “The world was too Rezeigat leader who is an officer in Sudan’s Border 2011 that affected over 13 million people mated 220,000 people died over a year. slow to respond to stark warnings of Guard force apparently laid claim to a gold-rich area in across the Horn of Africa. “An estimated Famine implies that at least a fifth of drought, exacerbated by conflict in 4.6 percent of the total population and 10 Beni Hussein territory, Amnesty International said. households face extreme food shortages, Somalia and people paid with their lives.” percent of children under five died in with acute malnutrition in over 30 percent Over a million Somalis are refugees in sur- Humanitarian sources said at the time that the southern and central Somalia,” the report of people, and two deaths per 10,000 peo- rounding nations, and another million dis- incident was the worst example of inter-Arab vio- said, saying the deaths were on top of ple every day, according to the UN defini- placed inside the country. Next Tuesday, lence to emerge in the past two years as govern- 290,000 “baseline” deaths during the peri- tion. Somalia, ravaged by nearly uninter- Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud ment-linked Arab groups got “out of control” and od, and double the average for sub- rupted civil war for the past two decades, and British Prime Minister David Cameron turned on each other. One humanitarian source said Saharan Africa. Lazzarini said that about is one of the most dangerous places in the will co-host a conference in London to dis- the Beni Hussein had refused to pay newly imposed 2.7million people are still in need of life- world for aid workers and one of the cuss how the international community can saving assistance and support to build government mining fees adding up to “huge, huge regions that needs them most. However, support Somalia’s progress. More than 50 their livelihoods. security has slowly improved in recent countries and organisations are due to money”. Gold has become a key commodity for cash- Famine was first declared in July 2011 months, with Islamist fighters linked to Al- take part. Oxfam said leaders should strapped Sudan since South Sudan separated two in Somalia’s Southern Bakool and Lower Qaeda on the back foot despite launching “ensure that this was Somalia’s last years ago with the loss of about 75 percent of the Shabelle regions, but later spread to other a deadly bombing campaign. At the time, famine” by helping generate jobs and country’s oil production. — AFP areas, including Middle Shabelle, Afgoye most of the famine-hit areas were under “ensuring trained, accountable security and inside camps for displaced people in their control, and the crisis was exacerbat- forces”. — AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Neo-Nazi trial raises questions for Germany

BERLIN: A German neo-Nazi murder trial starting electoral map, suddenly revealed itself as capable of tion. In the case of the NPD, the party was often aware Monday over the killings of 10 people has raised uncom- what prosecutors say was a years-long terrorist cam- of the informants in its ranks. “In many cases, the money fortable questions about murky links that the police and paign. Police say the suspects had the direct or indirect paid was shared with the party which filtered the infor- the intelligence services have with the extreme right. In assistance of 129 people - proof that the NSU trio were mation provided in exchange,” said Gideon Bortsch, an Nov 2011, the German public was shocked to learn that not “lone wolves”. Nearly all the alleged accomplices expert on the far right at the University of Potsdam out- a group calling itself the National Socialist Underground had ties to the neo-Nazi National Democratic Party of side Berlin. Furthermore, surveillance of the neo-Nazi (NSU) had claimed responsibility for the murders of eight Germany, which the nation’s 16 states are trying to have scene was reined in after the Sept 11, 2001, attacks ethnic Turks, a Greek shopkeeper and a German police- banned by the country’s top court. against the United States, with resources poured into woman between 2000 and 2007. Until then, investiga- During the ongoing probe into what went wrong in keeping tabs on Islamic extremism. tors had directed their probe against Germany’s large the NSU case, Germany has uncovered oversights, mis- “There is a consensus today that that decision was a Turkish community itself, suspecting a gangland dispute steps and stunning negligence by the police and the mistake,” said Sebastian Edathy, a deputy from the among rival mafia syndicates behind what the media domestic intelligence services that hobbled the murder opposition Social Democrats who chairs a parliamen- long dubbed the “kebab murders”. investigation. Above all, Germany realised that the secu- tary committee investigating the NSU fiasco. The police, Meanwhile the three NSU members - Uwe Mundlos rity services had chronically played down the danger of too, appeared to ignore that the murders could have a and Uwe Boehnhardt, who died in November 2011 in the rightwing extremists in its midst, staining the coun- political bent. “It scares me that the public sphere as a an apparent murder-suicide, and Beate Zschaepe, who try’s reputation of having learned the lessons of its Nazi whole completely failed to see that all these crimes turned herself in -lived a low-profile existence in the past. Heinz Fromm, director of the domestic intelligence could be linked,” Borscht said. “There was a complete eastern state of Thuringia while allegedly gunning service, the Office for the Protection of the Constitution, blindness to the racist nature of these killings.” The NSU down their victims and robbing banks. “We must admit resigned last July after staff admitted to shredding files affair is just one case feeding suspicion of possible collu- today with great shame that few, too few of us, thought relevant to the case. Media reports said the documents sion between the security services and the far right. The it was possible that (such crimes) could take place in revealed that two of their informants had ties to the federal interior ministry reported recently that 266 neo- Germany,” Thuringia interior minister Joerg Gelbert said NSU. The scandal exposed a sprawling web of contacts Nazis with outstanding arrest warrants were still at in a speech a few months after the NSU killing spree between the secret services and the far right in which large, many of them accused of violent crimes or even came to light. The far right, barely a blip on the national the state systematically exchanged cash for informa- murder—AFP

Probe into rally Benedict back at Vatican against Putin to live out retirement haunts Russia Ex-pope to maintain low profile MOSCOW: Moscow resident Alexei Gaskarov was in the middle of remodelling his apartment and living with his VATICAN CITY: Two months after his his- on his birthday and holding mass for him. the ex-pope’s brother, for when he should parents late last month when he went out to get some toric resignation, Benedict XVI returned to The German-born former pope, who visit. food for his cat. He didn’t make it to the store: outside, two the Vatican yesterday, where he will live in resigned because of old age, moves into Spread over three floors, the modern cars full of Russian riot police were waiting to arrest the 28- a former monastery in an unprecedented the Mater Ecclesiae monastery building complex has 12 monastic cells upstairs, year-old on suspicion that he hit a policeman at a protest arrangement that will see a pope and a for- within the Vatican grounds - an oasis of while the ground floor houses a kitchen, one year ago whose participants have been the subject of mer pope both housed in the tiny state. It calm with its own vegetable garden and living room, library and chapel. The cells an aggressive crackdown by President Vladimir Putin’s was a relatively low-key return for the 86- blooming flowerbeds - which has been are sparsely furnished: the only decora- regime. Gaskarov is now under arrest, charged with using year-old pope emeritus, off-limits to all but renovated for him. There Benedict plans to tions to be seen are wooden crosses and a violence against a policeman, the latest member of the the Vatican’s own media service. The serv- carry out a life of quiet contemplation and few paintings depicting scenes from reli- diverse group of two dozen people probed over the May ice announced shortly after his arrival that academic research. gious life, according to the Vatican. A 6, 2012 protest on the eve of Putin’s return to the presi- expected video coverage would not be The visit in March between Francis and stone’s throw from St Peter’s Basilica, the dency. provided, sparking doubts over the state of Benedict sparked concerns over the latter’s monastery has until now housed For the opposition, the case has become a symbol of his health. Benedict had looked extremely health, after television footage showed the Benedictine nuns, the Poor Clares - an injustice and political repression in Putin’s Russia, which frail at his last public appearance in March, ex-pontiff visibly aged and struggling to order founded by saints Clare and Francis they say has echoes of the repression of political oppo- and has said that he will live “hidden from keep up with his successor, even with the of Assisi - and sisters from the order of the nents in Soviet times. Twenty-six protestors have been the world”. aid of a walking stick. “He is old, weakened Visitation of Holy Mary, who retired to a accused in the case. Two have already been jailed - one for The unique decision to accommodate by age, but he is not ill,” Vatican convent in November last year. four and a half years, the other for two and a half - and 15 both a pope and his predecessor within spokesman Federico Lombardi said. In the Benedict, a nature lover who used to are languishing in pre-trial detention. Those arrested come the tiny city state provoked surprise in Mater Ecclesiae monastery, Benedict will take regular walks around the Vatican gar- from a wide span of Russian society-from a retired geolo- some quarters, with critics worried that live with four housekeepers from a lay reli- dens, may spend his days in the monastery gist who allegedly threw a plastic bottle at policemen to a Benedict’s presence may make it more dif- gious order that has looked after him until flower garden, where two rare types of former marine who was attending his first opposition rally. ficult for Francis to make St Peter’s chair his now, as well as with Gaenswein. A room rose, the pink “Beatrice d’Este” and white “It is a signal to everyone who participates or sympathis- own. Benedict’s secretary Georg will also be reserved for Georg Ratzinger, “Giovanni Paolo II”, are grown. —AFP es with the protest movement,” said Carnegie Center ana- Gaenswein is confusingly also the head of lyst Maria Lipman. The message the authorities are send- Francis’s papal household. But during his ing, she said, is: “This is not safe. You are risking your free- two-month stay at Castel Gandolfo, the dom.” Held one day before Vladimir Putin’s motorcade papal summer residence for centuries, glided into the Kremlin for his third inauguration, the rally Benedict was careful not to be seen to on Bolotnaya Square in central Moscow attracted tens of interfere in any way in the papal election or thousands of people. Many of them brought their children, the beginning of Francis’s reign - and is hand-drawn protest signs and balloons. Most were con- expected by many to maintain his low pro- fused when the peaceful march to the square suddenly file. Benedict left by helicopter from Castel stopped and descended into violence, with more than 100 Gandolfo outside Rome, the papal lakeside arrests and police helmets floating in the Moscow river. residence where he has been staying since In the fuzzy video published by investigators along he stepped down at the end of February, with the official statement about Gaskarov’s charges, a and touched down in the Vatican at 1450 man resembling him is seen pulling a man in riot-police GMT, where he was met by top officials uniform away from a protester lying on the pavement. He including the secretary of state Tarcisio is not seen hitting a policeman in the short clip. In another Bertone. Pope Francis welcomed him “with video published by friends and supporters of Gaskarov, an great and fraternal cordiality” at the door opposition activist, he is on the ground himself. A riot of the former monastery which is his new policeman standing over him in full gear swings his foot home, the Vatican said in a statement. The and kicks him in the head. He had to get three sets of pair then retired to pray together. stitches and filed a complaint about the police violence. The current pontiff has made repeated The complaint was ignored.—AFP gestures of friendship towards Benedict, VATICAN CITY: A helicopter carrying Pope emeritus Benedict XVI lands at the visiting him in Castel Gandolfo, calling him Vatican yesterday. — AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3 , 2013 Some in US Congress look to update 9/11 law

WASHINGTON: A few dozen words rushed into law days sary and appropriate force against those nations, organiza- Committee in March. Most presidents, Obama included, after the Sept 11, 2001, attacks have been used to justify US tions, or persons he determines planned, authorized, commit- guard their war-making powers jealously. White House offi- counterterrorism efforts from the war in Afghanistan to war- ted, or aided the attacks that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001, or cials have suggested they are open to changes in the AUMF, rantless wiretapping and drone strikes, all on orders of the harbored such organizations or persons, in order to prevent congressional aides said. Publicly at least, they have not White House - and with little congressional oversight. Now, any further acts of international terrorism against the United offered specifics. Obama, who has pledged more transparen- as criticism grows that the law has been stretched well States by such nations, organizations, or persons.” It has no cy over U.S. drone operations, said in October, “One of the beyond its original intent to go after militant groups that did geographic limits or expiration date and, as such, has been things we’ve got to do is put a legal architecture in place, and not even exist on 9/11, some Democrats and Republicans the legal justification for drone campaigns in Pakistan and we need congressional help in order to do that, to make sure have begun writing legislation to update the nearly 12-year- Yemen that have sometimes killed civilians and increased that not only am I reined in but any president’s reined in in old resolution. tensions among local populations. terms of some of the decisions that we’re making.” That could restoke tensions between Congress and the In recent days, debates over US national security policies John Bellinger, then a legal adviser to Republican White House over executive power, which were on display have been roiled again by the Boston Marathon bombings, President George W Bush’s National Security Council, helped when Republican Senator Rand Paul staged a 13-hour fili- and a spreading hunger strike at the Guantanamo Bay prison draft the AUMF “almost on the back of an envelope” when buster in March to protest President Barack Obama’s use of for suspected foreign militants, which Obama pledged - and the ruins of the World Trade Center were still smoldering. unmanned aircraft to conduct targeted killings. “If you look has failed - to close. While opponents want the AUMF Congress passed it three days after the attacks, and Bush back at the 60-word authorization that was put in place on repealed, a group of more moderate legislators wants it signed it on Sept 18. Bellinger said the measure needed an Sept 18, 2001, and look at where we are today, there’s a very, adjusted to account for a changing world and to set prece- update. He noted, for example, that it was now being used to very thin thread, if any, between that authorization and what dent as other countries build their own counterterrorism - justify going after targets who were only 8 or 9 years old is occurring today,” said Senator Bob Corker, a leader of the especially drone - programs. when the Sept 11 attacks occurred. “It really is getting old,” he effort to examine the 2001 resolution. Its formal title is the It is not yet clear what a revised AUMF would look like. said. “It was drafted extremely rapidly after Sept 11 and has Authorization to Use Military Force, or AUMF. Some members of Congress want to spell out policies for covered a whole variety of different activities over the last 12 The top Republican on the Senate Foreign Relations conducting drone strikes. Many want its scope expanded to years that were not originally contemplated.” Committee, Corker said he wanted to spell out the kind of include militant groups not directly tied to or found to be Bellinger, now a partner at the law firm Arnold & Porter, counterterrorism activities that could be authorized, and to “harboring” Al-Qaeda, including some operating in Africa, said there was a tension between those on the left - an impor- bring Congress back into the equation. “Congress has totally and to groups that target US allies in its fight against terror- tant part of Obama’s base - who want to cut the law back or outsourced its foreign policy oversight,” he said in an inter- ism. Some say a “Son of AUMF” should include more controls, repeal it and those who would revise it to provide authority view. “And a lot of people like it that way. Congress can take such as defining who can be detained and for how long, to engage in more activities. “If people ... were to delve into credit if things go well, criticize if things don’t go well, but in including US citizens. Others said there should be some defi- the legal theories, I think they would find that the administra- essence Congress has no ownership over what we are carry- nition of when hostilities under the AUMF would end. tion is probably either really stretching the boundaries of the ing out right now. That’s not an appropriate place for “The current AUMF is too broad, too narrow and too AUMF to cover some of the individuals or groups that they’re Congress to be.” vague,” Michael Leiter, former director of the National targeting, or, without telling anyone, simply relying on the The AUMF gives the president authority to “use all neces- Counterterrorism Center, told the Senate Foreign Relations president’s constitutional authority,” Bellinger said. —Reuters Boston suspect’s friends charged Trio accused of aiding bombers

BOSTON: The surviving suspected Boston Marathon bombing suspect, just hours before he and his brother allegedly gunned SEATTLE: Demonstrators back away from a ‘flash bang’ down a university police officer, exchanged object used by police during a May Day protest on text messages with a friend who had become Wednesday. — AP suspicious after seeing what looked like a familiar face being flashed on television, Clashes at Seattle authorities say. The friend and two others now stand accused of aiding the suspected May Day rally bombers. Dias Kadyrbayev, a student at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, SEATTLE: Eight police officers were hurt and 18 protesters arrest- texted his college buddy Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, ed in Seattle on Wednesday when a May Day rally that began saying he looked like one of the bombing peacefully turned violent after dark, with crowds hurling rocks suspects. Kadyrbayev and his roommate and bottles at police who responded with pepper spray Azamat Tazhayakov, both from Kazakhstan, grenades. Protesters threw rocks, bottles and chunks of asphalt at were charged Wednesday with conspiring to officers, officials said, smashing store and car windows, overturn- destroy emptied fireworks and other evi- ing trash cans and lining up newspaper display racks to block dence linking their friend to the deadly April streets. Police in riot gear, some riding in armored SWAT vehicles, 15 blasts. responded by repeatedly firing “blast ball” grenades, which emit Another man, Robel Phillipos who gradu- ated from Cambridge Rindge and Latin High smoke tinged with pepper spray. “We’re a bigger, better city than BOSTON: This courtroom sketch shows defendants Dias Kadyrbayev (left) and School with Tsarnaev in 2011, was charged this,” Mayor Mike McGinn said at a news conference. “I’m disap- Azamat Tazhayakov appearing in front of Federal Magistrate Marianne Bowler with lying to investigators about the April 18 at the Moakley Federal Courthouse on Wednesday. — AP pointed that this is the picture the world sees of us.” visit to his friend’s dorm room to retrieve the Most of the 150-200 protesters who had stayed on the street items. Three people were killed and more after darkness fell for a “non-permitted” protest had dispersed by was advised of his rights not to speak with said whether the pressure cooker bombs than 260 wounded on April 15 when two authorities, the 19-year-old bombing suspect used in the attacks were made with gunpow- midnight. “We did not start to take action until that group itself bombs exploded near the marathon’s finish allegedly said that his older brother had only der extracted from fireworks. started to act violently towards the officers and the community at line. Tamerlan Tsarnaev, 26, died after a gun- recently recruited him to be part of the The lawyers for the Kazakh students said large,” Assistant Police Chief Paul McDonagh said. The day start- fight with police days later. Younger brother attack. According to the FBI account, just their clients had nothing to do with the ed with a peaceful march in support of immigrant rights, part of Dzhokhar was captured and remains in a hours after surveillance camera photos of the bombing and were just as shocked by the May Day rallies in cities across the USWest planned by a coalition prison hospital. two suspects were flashed around the world crime as everyone else. Phillipos’ attorney, of organized labor activists, students, civil rights advocates and “Tsarnaev’s return texts contained ‘lol’ April 18, Tsnarnaev’s friends suspected he Derege Demissie, said outside court: “The members of the clergy. In Los Angeles, thousands of protesters and other things Kadyrbayev interpreted as was one of the bombers and removed the only allegation is he made a misrepresenta- marched through downtown waving American flags and carrying jokes such as ‘you better not text me’ and backpack along with a laptop from tion.” The Kazakh students did not request signs with the slogan, “Stop deportations.” One police officer told ‘come to my room and take whatever you Tsarnaev’s room at UMass Dartmouth. One of bail at a court hearing and will be held for Reuters that unofficial estimates put the size of the crowd in Los want,’” an FBI agent wrote in an affidavit. them later threw the backpack in the another hearing May 14. Phillipos was held Angeles at roughly 3,500 people. No arrests were reported. In Tazhayakov also told authorities that during garbage, and it wound up in a landfill, where for a hearing on Monday. If convicted, Arizona, where a state crackdown against illegal immigration was a meal about a month before the terror it was discovered by law enforcement offi- Kadyrbayev and Tazhayakov could get up to signed into law three years ago, several hundred people joined a attacks that Tsarnaev informed him and cers last week, authorities said. In the back- five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. late-afternoon rally outside the state Capitol in Phoenix, ahead of Kadyrbayev “that he knew how to make a pack were fireworks that had been emptied Phillipos faces a maximum of eight years a march through downtown. — Reuters bomb”. That is significant because, before he of their gunpowder. Investigators have not behind bars and a $250,000 fine. —AP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

China incursion American gets 15 years’ leaves India on verge of crisis hard labour in N Korea

NEW DELHI: The platoon of Chinese soldiers slipped across Verdict stokes tensions with United States the boundary into India in the middle of the night, according to Indian officials. They were ferried across the bitterly cold SEOUL: North Korea said yesterday it had sentenced a appeal for more outside aid. The United States had urged moonscape in Chinese army vehicles, then got out to traverse Korean-American tour operator to 15 years’ hard labour for North Korea to free the detainee on “humanitarian grounds”, a dry creek bed with a helicopter hovering overhead for pro- “hostile acts”, stoking tensions with the United States which pointing out that he entered the country on a valid visa. tection. They finally reached their destination and pitched a had pleaded for his release. Kim Jong-Un’s isolated regime is A senior US State Department official said Washington was tent in the barren Depsang Valley in the Ladakh region, a sym- likely to use the detainee as a bargaining chip, experts said, as “working to confirm the reports” of Bae’s sentence through bolic claim of sovereignty deep inside Indian-held territory. So it seeks concessions from the United States following weeks of the Swedish embassy, which represents US interests in the stealthy was the operation that India did not discover the bellicose threats of missile strikes and of nuclear war. Pae Jun- North in the absence of diplomatic ties. US politician Bill incursion until a day later, Indian officials said. Ho, known in the United States as Kenneth Bae, was arrested Richardson failed to secure Bae’s release when he visited China denies any incursion, but Indian officials say that for in November as he entered the northeastern port city of North Korea in January with Google chairman Eric Schmidt. two weeks, the soldiers have refused to move back over the Rason. He has been accused of trying to “topple the DPRK” Richardson, a former New Mexico governor and ex-ambas- so-called Line of Actual Control that divides Indian-ruled terri- (North Korea). “The Supreme Court sentenced him to 15 years sador to the United Nations, was unable to even meet Bae tory from Chinese-run land, leaving the government on the of compulsory labour for this crime,” according to the North’s during his trip, which was criticised by Washington as ill-timed verge of a crisis with its powerful northeastern neighbor. official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), which said his tri- following Pyongyang’s rocket launch in December. Indian officials fear that if they react with force, the face-off al was held on April 30. Tensions have been running high between the United could escalate into a battle with the powerful People’s Pyongyang has not specified the basis of the offences States and North Korea since Pyongyang carried out a third Liberation Army. But doing nothing would leave a Chinese allegedly committed by Bae, who is reported to be aged 44, nuclear test in February. The North reacted furiously to the use outpost deep in territory India has ruled since independence. but KCNA has previously said that he admitted his crimes. of nuclear-capable B-52s and B-2 stealth bombers in recent “If they have come 19 kilometers into India, it is not a minor Seoul-based activist Do Hee-Yoon has told AFP that he sus- joint US-South Korean military drills. In a commentary pub- LAC violation. It is a deliberate military operation. And even as India protests, more tents have come up,” said Sujit Dutta, a pected Bae was arrested because he had taken photographs lished yesterday, KCNA blamed the United States for the cur- China specialist at the Jamia Milia Islamia university in New of emaciated children in North Korea as part of efforts to rent standoff. “The escalating tension on the Korean Peninsula Delhi. “Clearly, the Chinese are testing India to see how far is entirely attributable to the US heinous hostile policy toward they can go,” he said. That is not China’s stated view. Chinese the DPRK,” it said. “The US is seriously mistaken if it thinks it Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Thursday can cover up its sinister scenario by talking about dialogue that Chinese troops had been carrying out normal patrols and though it is the arch criminal who drove the situation to the had not crossed the boundary. “China is firmly opposed to any brink of a nuclear war.” acts that involve crossing the Line of Actual Control and sabo- Several Americans have been held in North Korea in recent taging the status quo,” she said at a daily briefing in Beijing as years. In 2011 a US delegation secured the release of Eddie she was repeatedly questioned about the dispute. Jun Yong-Su, a California-based businessman who had been Hua said talks to defuse the dispute were ongoing and detained for apparent missionary activities. In 2010 former US that it should not affect relations. “As we pointed out many president Jimmy Carter won plaudits when he negotiated the times, the China-India border issue is one which was left over release of American national Aijalon Mahli Gomes, sentenced from the past. The two sides reached important consensus to eight years of hard labour for illegally crossing into the that this issue should not affect the overall bilateral relations,” North from China. On another mercy mission a year earlier in Hua said. Local army commanders from both sides have held 2009, former president Bill Clinton won the release of US tele- three meetings over the crisis, according to Indian officials. vision journalists Laura Ling and Euna Lee, jailed after crossing India’s foreign secretary called in the Chinese ambassador to the North Korean border with China. register a strong protest. Yet the troops did not move, and Experts believe the North is likely to try to use Bae to even pitched a second tent, Indian officials said. extract concessions from Washington. “The North will surely The timing of the crisis, weeks before Chinese Premier Li Keqiang is to visit India, has surprised many here. The Chinese try to take advantage of Kenneth Bae as a bargaining chip in leader’s decision to make India his first trip abroad since tak- negotiations with the US,” said Yang Moo-Jin, a professor at ing office two months ago had been seen as an important the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul. “But the gesture toward strengthening ties between rival powers that whole atmosphere is quite different from when similar have longstanding border disputes but also growing trade hostage disputes erupted in the past. The diplomatic and mili- relations. Manoj Joshi, a defense analyst at the New Delhi- SEOUL: Passersby watch a local television broadcast yester- tary situation is so tense that the US is unlikely to dramatically based Observer Research Foundation, said the timing of the day showing a report and picture of Kenneth Bae, a Korean- change its stance or try to open dialogue with the North just incursion raises questions about “whether there is infighting American tour operator detained in North Korea, against the to save this guy,” he said. Last month Pyongyang demanded within the Chinese leadership, or whether someone is trying background of a North Korean flag painted on the wall of a an end to UN sanctions and to US-South Korean military drills to upstage Li”. building in Pyongyang. — AFP in exchange for talks - conditions that Seoul dismissed as Indian External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said “absurd”. — AFP Wednesday that while he had no plans to cancel a trip to Beijing next week to prepare for Li’s visit, the government could reconsider in the coming week. “A week is a long time in politics,” he told reporters. Indian politicians accused the scan- Australia smashes S Korea spy ring dal-plagued government of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh of floundering in fear before China. “China realizes that India SYDNEY: A South Korean spy ring has been uncovered has a weak government, and a prime minister who is power- Korean spies had been expelled from Australia. Instead, less,” said Yashwant Sinha, a former foreign minister from the in Australia trying to cultivate public servants to obtain in an effort to maintain good relations with the NIS, ASIO opposition Bharatiya Janata Party. He demanded a stronger trade secrets, a report said yesterday, but officials insist- took legal action to prevent disclosure of the incident response. “A bully will back off the moment it realizes that it’s ed relations with Seoul remained robust. The Sydney and protect the identities of the South Korean agents. dealing with a country which will not submit to its will,” Sinha Morning Herald said previously suppressed information The details came to light after the trade specialist said said. revealed that South Korea’s National Intelligence Service his contact with South Korean diplomats was purely Former Defense Minister Mulayam Singh Yadav called the (NIS) had sought “to obtain sensitive information” on social and appealed against his sacking to the Federal government “cowardly and incompetent.” He warned that trade negotiations between Canberra and Seoul. It Court. In releasing information about the case, the court China was trying to annex more territory to add to the spoils it reported that the Australian Security Intelligence identified four NIS officers who served under diplomatic took following its victory over India in a brief 1962 border war. Organisation (ASIO) alleged that a senior Australian agri- cover in Canberra. Foreign Minister Bob Carr declined to Defense Minister A K Antony countered that India is “united in cultural trade specialist was involved in “foreign interfer- comment on the case, but said South Korea was one of its commitment to take every possible step to safeguard our ence” by the Korean spies and had been “successfully Australia’s largest export markets and trading partners interests.” Supporters of the right-wing Shiv Sena party cultivated”. and relations were unlikely to be hurt. burned effigies of Singh, Antony and other top officials The man participated in Australia-South Korea free “In line with the longstanding practice in Australian Wednesday, demanding India retaliate by barring Chinese trade agreement talks in late 2009 but lost his security governance, I cannot comment on matters of security or imports. China is India’s biggest trading partner, with bilateral clearance and job with the Australian Bureau of intelligence,” he told reporters in Sydney. “I believe the trade heavily skewed in China’s favor, crossing $75 billion in Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences. relationship with the Republic of Korea is so strong, so 2011. Analysts feel linking a troop withdrawal to continued Although engaged in what ASIO described as “inappro- robust, that this will have no effect on it,” he added, trade could work. —AP priate activities” harmful to Australia’s interests, no South when asked about the report. — AFP International FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

B’desh court indicts British Muslim leader

DHAKA: Bangladesh’s war crimes court yesterday 1971 war of liberation,” he added. Another prosecutor, Dhaka University student leader who is believed now indicted a Bangladesh-born British Muslim leader and Ziad Al Malum, told AFP Mueen-Uddin faces a total of to be in New York, was “chief executor” for the Al-Badr a US citizen for their alleged role in the murder of top 16 charges, which include accusations of kidnapping militia. The tribunal has already charged 12 people intellectuals during the country’s 1971 liberation war. and torture and the murder of 18 top university teach- with war crimes and sentenced to death two people, Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin has held positions in a host ers, journalists and writers. including the vice-president of Jamaat-e-Islami. of top Islamic organisations in his adopted homeland Malum said he is alleged to have been party to the Bangladesh has struggled to come to terms with and was involved in the setting up of the Muslim murder of Sirajuddin Hossain, the executive editor of its violent birth. The current government says up to Council of Britain. The London-based former journal- what was then the country’s largest Bengali daily three million people were killed in the war, many ist, who denies any wrongdoing, was a newspaper Ittefaq; of top playwright and Dhaka University profes- murdered by locals who collaborated with Pakistani reporter in the impoverished South Asian country sor Muneer Chowdhury; and of popular novelist forces. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government when what was then East Pakistan broke away from Shahidullah Kaiser. The head of the tribunal’s investiga- established the tribunal in March 2010 to try the col- West Pakistan. tion agency Abdul Hannan told AFP Mueen-Uddin had laborators, but it has been hit by a series of controver- He is accused of being a leading member of the fled the country after the war. Mueen-Uddin’s London- sies. A presiding judge resigned in December last year notorious Al-Badr militia and of the fundamentalist based lawyer said his client “rejects all these allegations after his leaked Internet calls showed he was under Jamaat-e-Islami political party, which fought for the in their entirety” and raised doubts about whether pressure from the government to deliver a quick country to remain part of Pakistan. “The court has tak- Britain would agree to extradition, given concerns judgement. en into cognisance the charges of war crimes against about the death penalty and the impartiality of the The war crimes trials have plunged the country Chowdhury Mueen-Uddin and issued a warrant to court. “Bangladesh will be required to establish that into one of its most turbulent chapters since inde- arrest him,” International Crimes Tribunal registrar there is a prima facie case against Mr Mueen-Uddin,” pendence, as the main opposition Bangladesh Nasiruddin Mahmud told AFP. Mueen-Uddin would said lawyer Toby Cadman in a statement to AFP. “They Nationalist Party and its main ally Jamaat have face the death penalty if extradited and convicted. will also be required to give an undertaking that Mr protested what they view as politically motivated State prosecutor Syed Haider Ali told AFP that Mueen-Uddin will not receive the death penalty.” charges. The opposition has called a series of national Mueen-Uddin “has been indicted for crimes against The court yesterday also indicted Ashrafuzzaman strikes protesting the trails and clashes over the ver- humanity and genocide”. “The charges include the Khan, a United States citizen, on the same charges as dicts have left more than 100 people dead since the killing of the country’s top intellectuals during the Mueen-Uddin. Prosecutor Ali told AFP that Khan, a first judgement on Jan 21. — AFP Textile factories reopen Taleban bomb kills after Bangladesh disaster eight Afghan police

PULI ALAM, Afghanistan: A Taleban bomb killed eight Death toll rises to 433, dozens missing Afghan police yesterday in Logar province outside the DHAKA: capital Kabul, officials said, four days after the insurgents Bangladesh’s garment firms re- week, and anger at the conditions of gar- used shoddy construction materials and the started their annual “spring offensive”. The members of opened and rushed to complete delayed ment workers - many of whom earn less building had been erected on a filled-up the Afghan Local Police (ALP) force were on a joint patrol orders for their Western clients yesterday than $40 a month - was the main focus of pond in a flagrant violation of construction with NATO-led coalition forces near Puli Alam town when after an eight-day shutdown caused by the May Day rallies on Wednesday. Some three rules. The government has also suspended the blast was detonated. “One of the police vehicles hit an deaths of at least 433 people in a building million people are employed in the coun- two engineers who approved and cleared IED (improvised explosive device) in which eight local collapse. Millions of staff returned to pro- try’s 4,500 textile plants, which are a main- the factories to reopen after the cracks police were killed and their pick-up truck was totally duction lines around the capital Dhaka that stay of the impoverished nation’s economy. appeared in the structure. They have been destroyed,” Rais Khan Sadeq, Logar provincial deputy make clothing for retailers such as Walmart The shutdown is estimated to have cost the arrested along with the building owner and police chief, told AFP. and H&M, which have come under huge industry about $25 million a day, according four factory bosses and face charges of Din Mohammad Darvish, the provincial spokesman, pressure to review their contracts in the to Azim. causing death due to negligence. confirmed the incident and the death toll. “Eight local accident-prone country. “All factories have Authorities yesterday suspended the Hundreds of distraught relatives clutch- police are killed in a Taleban bomb,” he said. Zabihullah opened today and the workers have mayor of Savar for approving the building ing photos of the missing continued to Mujahid, a Taliban spokesman, told AFP the insurgent returned to work,” said Shahidullah Azim, and failing to shut the factories when cracks mass at the disaster site as army rescue group was responsible for the attack. “A big number of vice president of the Bangladesh Garments appeared in the structure a day before the cranes dug through the mountains of con- police are dead and a big number of them are wounded,” Manufacturers and Exporters Association. tragedy. Mohammad Refayet Ullah, who for crete. Mohammad Helal, a 17-year-old, has he said, without giving details. Founded in 2010, the ALP “We don’t have any reports of protests or the last 14 years has been mayor of the been at the site for the last eight days look- is a controversial unit tasked with community-level polic- violence,” he told AFP. satellite town that is home to scores of gar- ing for his mother. “Before leaving for work ing to suppress violence in some of the country’s most Workers walked out en masse the day ment factories, is the highest official to be on the day of disaster, mother told me to be dangerous areas. the eight-storey Rana Plaza compound col- suspended over the country’s worst indus- a good boy and look after your younger sis- It was designed as a homegrown force of locals ready lapsed in the town of Savar outside Dhaka, trial disaster. Local government secretary ters,” Helal told AFP, wiping tears from his to take on Taleban hardliners in places where the national the latest in a string of deadly disasters to Abu Alam Shahid Khan told AFP that legal face. “I know mother won’t be back. But police and army were scarce, but is often criticised as hit the $20 billion industry. There has been a action would be taken against him. Experts please, I plead with you all, return my moth- indisciplined and poorly-trained. The Taleban vowed their series of attacks on factories over the last inspecting the site said contractors had er’s body,” he shouted. annual spring offensive would target international airbas- Major General Chowdhury Hassan es and diplomatic buildings with multiple suicide bomb- Suhrawardy yesterday rubbished claims ings, as well as featuring “insider attacks” by Afghan sol- that some bodies were being hidden to diers and “special military tactics”. No large-scale attacks lower the body count. “Some quarters have have yet been launched, but three British soldiers fighting alleged that bodies are disappearing. They in the NATO-led coalition were killed by a roadside bomb are fuelling public anger by spreading in the southern province of Helmand on Tuesday. Shah rumour that actual casualties are unbeliev- Wali Khan, the head of the High Peace Council in ably high,” he told reporters in a briefing. Helmand, was also killed in a similar attack in the province The operation was taking some time as the on Wednesday. aim was to recover the bodies without any More than a decade after the Taleban government was damage, he said, adding: “We will not move ousted in 2001, Afghanistan remains in the grip of a vio- until the last body is found.” lent insurgency with militants launching daily strikes on Army spokesman captain Shahid Hasan government officials, police and international and Afghan Bhuiyan told AFP that the confirmed death soldiers. Afghanistan’s inexperienced security forces are toll in the disaster was now 433, with 2,437 taking over responsibility for fighting the Taleban, but people rescued. The overall toll is expected fears are growing that the country could tip into civil war to top 500 as officials said on Wednesday after NATO military operations cease at the end of next that 149 people were still unaccounted for. year. This year’s “fighting season” is seen as crucial to Speaking to parliament on Tuesday, Prime Afghanistan’s future as its security forces take the lead in Minister Sheikh Hasina urged employees to return to work and criticised reported offensives against the insurgents fighting to topple SAVAR, Bangladesh: A Bangladeshi relative cries after identifying her daughter’s President Hamid Karzai’s US-backed government. — AFP attacks on some factories. Bangladesh is the dead body from the rubble of a collapsed eight-storey building on the outskirts of world’s second-largest garment exporter Dhaka yesterday. — AFP after China. —AFP Business FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Manufacturing Europe seeks end to ‘nightmare’ youth unemployment growth stumbles PAGE 22 PAGE 20

TOKYO: Boeing Aircraft On Ground (AOG) team members work on All Nippon Airways Boeing 787 at the hanger after the dreamliner’s test flight at the Haneda International airport in Tokyo. — AFP With 777X, mini-jumbo war beckons Revamp follows pressure from new Airbus A350-1000 jet

SEATTLE: Boeing has started offering its long- stantial overhaul in the design of the 777, closed but after industrial delays followed by a the formal “authority to offer” the 777X as it jug- awaited 777X long-range jet, paving the way for expected to enter service around 2020. grounding of its 787 Dreamliner, Boeing will hope gles the looming threat from Airbus with the need a ‘mini-jumbo’ war with European rival Airbus, that upgrading a familiar jet costs significantly less to avoid undermining the value of a large order industry sources said yesterday. The move BOOST FOR SUPPLIERS than the $15 billion for an all-new aircraft. “Boeing backlog of existing 777s. Now that the 777X is backed by Boeing’s board means that the com- People familiar with the matter said the Boeing has been waiting to see what happened with the being offered to customers, the next move could mercial aircraft division can begin taking orders board had approved the so-called “authority to A350-1000, and the BA order clearly swung their begin within 12 months, making the end-of- for a revamped version of its top-selling wide- offer”, allowing sales to proceed. The people decision,” said Agency Partners analyst Nick decade timetable feasible, analysts said. bodied jet, the 777, which could include folding declined to be identified because they are not Cunningham in London. “It could be an awesome Timed to dominate discussion at the June 17- wingtips and new engines from General Electric. authorized to discuss actions of the board. After competitor, given the success of 777-300ER, but I 21 Paris air show, Boeing’s decision allows the Boeing declined to discuss the outcome of attracting enough orders, Boeing would go back suspect it will end up having most of the cost and 777X to go head to head with the A350-1000 in Monday’s board meeting but said it was pushing to the board for permission to start developing risk of a complete new program.” Emirates, which contests at big hitters such as Japan Airlines or ahead with the project to update the twin- and building the jet. runs the biggest fleet of 777s, is among those Gulf carriers led by Dubai-based Emirates. After engined jet, in service since the 1990s. “We are If launched, the program would bring billions clamoring for the cost-saving 777X as early as pos- losing to Airbus on part of British Airways’ fleet taking the next step when it comes to engaging of dollars of business to suppliers of aircraft parts. sible. Airbus says that its carbon-composite A350 renewal plans, industry sources say that Boeing is customers on the 777X,” spokesman Doug Alder In March, Boeing chose General Electric to devel- is lighter and cheaper to run than the 777X, which already in informal talks to persuade the European said. The company has “begun to discuss addi- op the engines, renewing their exclusive partner- will keep a metallic body. Boeing is expected to airline to place a parallel order for the main model, tional technical, pricing and schedule details ship on the most recent 777s. The 777X is a argue that an all-new wing and new engine will the 777-9X. with customers”, he added. planned successor to the industry’s most popular make the 400-seat 777X cheaper to operate per The 777-9X would have about 406 seats and a Reuters reported on April 24 that Boeing was large twin-engined aircraft seating more than 300 seat. Industry sources say that Boeing has been range of more than 8,100 nautical miles, aiming to ready to go ahead with the project “within passengers. The original 777 was introduced in offering the plane informally for months, while leapfrog the 350-seat A350-1000, two sources weeks”, after one of its key customers, British 1995 and is the last new plane Boeing developed fine-tuning the design with focus groups of air- briefed on Boeing’s plans said. It would have a Airways, placed a $6 billion order for A350-1000 before the 787. Its most popular version is the lines and lessors. It has also been offering a new carbon-composite wing and folding wing jets from rival Airbus. Until now, Boeing has more recent 777-300ER. stretched version of its 787 Dreamliner after a sim- tips to increase wing span without needing more enjoyed a virtual monopoly in the lucrative mar- The 777X would compete from around the ilar but unannounced board decision taken late parking space, which would incur additional air- ket for large twin-engined jets, boosting its mar- turn of the decade with the Airbus A350-1000 to last year, they added. port fees. Boeing also is thought to be considering gins, but Airbus has started challenging that carve up a potential market of at least 2,000 air- a smaller, longer-range 777-8X. The head of Qatar position with its 350-seat A350-1000, due to craft worth about $500 billion over 20 years. The HEAD TO HEAD Airways said on Wednesday that he would be enter service in 2017. Boeing’s response is a sub- cost of the 777X development has not been dis- Until this week Boeing had held off granting “very interested” in both models. — Reuters Business FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Scuppered Yahoo! deal hits French business image

PARIS: France’s business image was Dailymotion and we were on the verge Socialists, of damaging France’s busi- ty is to find an ally who can help devel- dealt a fresh blow yesterday as France of finding an arrangement,” he said. ness image with his outspoken views, op Dailymotion outside Europe,” he Telecom complained of interference Yahoo! Inc. had been in talks to buy including last year when he threatened said. “We had looked at more than 60 after the state blocked efforts by Yahoo! a 75 percent stake in Dailymotion, the to nationalize an ArcelorMittal steel potential partners in France and abroad to buy a majority stake in video-sharing 12th-largest video-sharing website and plant in the country’s northeast. before focusing on Yahoo!. Now we will website Dailymotion. Industrial an industry leader in Europe, with an The junior economy minister, Benoit restart our search.” In an editorial head- Renewal Minister Arnaud Montebourg- estimated value of $300 million (228 Hamon, also defended the govern- lined “whatawaste.com”, Les Echos often at the centre of complaints that million euros). But the government, ment’s move, saying it was in the “pub- lamented the government’s interfer- France’s Socialist government is anti- which holds a 27 percent stake in lic interest” to protect the company. ence, saying the Yahoo! deal would business-admitted on Wednesday to France Telecom, had insisted on a 50-50 “Let’s stop describing France as some have allowed Dailymotion to finally having derailed the US Internet firm’s split. Montebourg said Wednesday he sort of economic wasteland where for- move beyond its French base. plans, saying the deal was not in French had met with Yahoo! executives and eign investors will no longer step foot. “France could have become a key interests. blocked the deal because the US firm They are coming,” he told France Inter piece in Yahoo!’s global puzzle. And a But France Telecom CEO Stephane was seeking to “devour” the French radio. “We are taking decisions to pro- stronger Dailymotion, even under Richard said the firm’s management- company. He said the government tect our capital, our creations, our abili- Yahoo! control, would have benefited and not the government-should be wanted a “balanced” agreement that ty to innovate,” he said. “Maybe if our digital ecosystem,” it said. The deal deciding the strategy for Dailymotion, a would allow Dailymotion to retain its Europe protected itself much better, it was part of efforts by Yahoo! to expand Paris-based subsidiary. “Dailymotion is identity. “The government is doing its would be much stronger against the its global reach, with Dailymotion as a a subsidiary of Orange and not the job,” he said yesterday, adding: “We did United States, China and emerging potential competitor with Google- state. It is the company, its manage- not think it was a good idea to leave economies.” owned video-sharing giant YouTube. ment and its board that manages this Dailymotion in the hands of a company, Richard said France Telecom was Yahoo! CEO Marissa Mayer, who took issue,” Richard told Les Echos business Yahoo!, whose health is sometimes now on the hunt for other potential over the struggling Internet search pio- newspaper, using France Telecom’s unsteady.” Critics have repeatedly partners to work with Dailymotion, neer last year, has said she wants to brand name Orange. “I had refused that accused Montebourg, from the left which employs about 150 people and is make a priority of markets outside the Yahoo! have the option of buying all of flank of President Francois Hollande’s seeking to expand its reach. “Our priori- United States. — AFP

Manufacturing Shell boss announces surprise retirement LONDON: Global energy giant Shell yesterday said in growth stumbles a surprise announcement that chief executive Peter Voser will retire next year, as it also posted falling first-quarter net profits on the back of lower crude oil Struggling factories underline fragility of world growth prices. LONDON: “The board of Royal Dutch Shell plc today Manufacturing across the announced that Peter Voser... has elected to retire world stumbled last month, underlining from the company in the first half of 2014,” a state- the fragility of the global economy and ment issued by the Anglo-Dutch group said. building the case for more action from In a message to staff, Voser said he wanted to leading central banks. Gloomy purchas- spend more time with his family, after more than 25 ing managers indexes - surveys of facto- years working for Shell. Voser, 54, has been chief ry activity that correlate strongly with executive since July 2009. Shell said it would review economic activity - added to a string of other economic data that has already internal and external candidates to find a successor. soured optimism that a budding pickup “After such an exciting executive career I feel it is in the world economy will flower. time for a change in my lifestyle and I am looking for- Over the past two days, manufactur- ward to have more time available for my family and ing indexes for the United States, euro- private life in the years to come,” he wrote to col- zone - including powerhouse Germany - leagues. Voser added that he would still maintain a and China have all declined. Britain’s “limited” number of non-executive roles at other improved but was still signaling contrac- companies. The news was delivered alongside the tion. “There is not a great amount of announcement of a six-percent drop in Shell’s first- positive news out there. Globally, we do quarter net profits to $8.18 billion (6.21 billion euros). see a weaker second quarter - there are Earnings after tax in the three months to March no arguments about that,” said Victoria compared with $8.7 billion in the same period of last year. “Our industry continues to see significant ener- Clarke, economist at Investec. A survey BEIJING: Peddlers rest on their trishaws as they wait for customers along a on Wednesday pointed to a slowdown street in Beijing yersterday. Manufacturing activity in China slowed slightly in gy price volatility as a result of economic and politi- in the United States, which was soon fol- April from the previous month in a sign of further weakness in the world’s sec- cal developments,” Voser said in the earnings release. lowed by a signal from the Federal ond-biggest economy. — AFP Reserve signal that it would step up its “Oil prices have fallen recently but Shell is imple- asset purchase program if necessary. sands of companies across the 17-nation 50.4 from 51.6 as new export orders fell. menting a long-term, competitive and innovative Until recently, analysts had expected bloc, down to 46.7 last month from “The tepid growth momentum is carry- strategy against this volatile backdrop.” Shell said the Fed to buy a total of $1 trillion in March’s 46.8. That marked a four-month ing over into the current quarter, thus that its current cost of supplies-which strips out securities during its ongoing third round low but came in ahead of an earlier flash adding risks to expectations that China’s gains or losses in the value of inventories-rose four of quantitative easing with expectations reading of 46.5. Anything under 50 is annual economic expansion will pick up percent to $7.95 billion owing to higher refining mar- it would start to take its foot off the seen as a contraction. Signs of rot to around 8 percent in spring,” said gins. Total oil and gas production meanwhile edged accelerator in the second half of this spreading in the euro-zone will bolster Nikolaus Keis, economist at UniCredit. higher to 3.559 million barrels of oil equivalent per year. In the euro-zone, manufacturing already solid expectations for an interest A Reuters poll suggested growth day in the reporting period, from 3.552 million in the output declined again in April as factory rate cut from the European Central Bank would pick up in the second quarter to same period of 2012. activity in Germany, Europe’s largest to a new record low of 0.5 percent later. 8.0 percent after 7.7 percent in the first Output was affected by security problems in economy and the world’s second- quarter, but analysts said forecasts were Nigeria and divestments. In late morning deals, biggest exporter after China, fell for the FRAGILE CHINA now at risk of a downgrade. But Japan’s Shell’s ‘B’ share price rose 1.46 percent to 2,292 second month and at a faster pace than Wednesday’s US data from the PMI, released earlier this week, was the pence on London’s FTSE 100 index of leading com- in March. Institute for Supply Management highest in just over a year at 51.1, the panies, which was 0.28 percent lower at 6,433.32 Manufacturers in France, Italy and showed its PMI falling in April to 50.7 latest evidence that Prime Minister points. “The volatility of the oil price is a factor which Spain - the euro-zone’s next biggest from 51.3 with a noticeable pull back in Shinzo Abe’s aggressive economic poli- Shell is trying to mitigate over a period of time, economies after Germany - all reported employment growth. China’s growth cies are benefiting the economy. South whilst the search for a replacement CEO will be an contraction in business. Combined, they engine stuttered last month as well. The Korea’s overall PMI also rose in April, as unwelcome distraction,” noted Richard J Hunter, pushed Markit’s Euro-zone official PMI fell in April to 50.6 from 50.9 domestic new orders more than offset head of equities at Hargreaves Lansdown Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ in March, while a comparable HSBC PMI, the impact of the cooling in overseas Stockbrokers. — AFP Index (PMI), based on a survey of thou- also reported yesterday, dropped to orders. — Reuters Business FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Gold edges up ECB cuts rates to support

LONDON: Gold edged up yesterday after the European Central Bank (ECB)cut its main interest rate cut by 25 basis flagging Europe economy points to a record low of 0.50 percent. Lower interest rates should favor gold as they encourage investors to put money into non-interest-bearing assets like the metal. Gold rose to a Main rate cut by 25 basis points to 0.50% session high of $1,461.65 an ounce after the rate decision and was at $1,458.71 by 1211 GMT, up 0.1 percent. The metal had BRATISLAVA: The European Central Bank quarter point to a new record low of 0.50 ready to act. He will hold a news confer- shed more than 1 percent in the previous session-its biggest cut interest rates for the first time in 10 percent in response to a drop in inflation ence at 1230 GMT to explain the decision. daily drop since bullion’s historic decline in mid-April-to a low months yesterday, driven to act by an well below its target level, and rising Economic data over the last month of $1,439.74, the weakest since April 25. US gold for June deliv- economy wallowing in recession and freed unemployment. The cut was widely have bolstered the case for action, with ery rose 0.8 percent to $1,457.20 an ounce. to do so by sharply falling inflation. The expected, after ECB President Mario unemployment hitting a record high in Gains were kept in check by slower physical demand even ECB lowered its main interest rate by a Draghi said last month the bank stood April, when inflation saw its biggest as China returned from a three-day holiday, while the Federal monthly drop in over four years, to 1.2 Reserve’s decision on Wednesday to maintain or boost its percent. “The ECB is playing it safe, even bond-purchase program - the central bank currently buys $85 though they know the effect is likely to be billion worth of bonds each month to support a moderately limited,” Nordea analyst Anders Svendsen expanding economy - had little impact. Although the Fed’s said of the cut. “The key for the market is printing of money to buy assets is considered supportive for the tone. If the ECB comes out with other the metal because it tends to be inflationary, analysts said that measures as well to help SME (small- and inflation readings were lower recently and are not likely to mid-sized enterprise) lending that will be show changes in coming months. “The logic was that the more positive but if they say the cut was all they QE was done by central banks the more inflationary pressure had, I think there will be disappointment.” we would have but there’s no sign of that and gold is suffer- The euro rose to $1.3191 and German ing,” Societe Generale analyst Robin Bhar said. Investors turned 10-year government bond futures edged their attention towards weekly jobless claims in the United higher after the decision. The sharp drop in States, due at 1230 GMT, as well as the US non-farm payrolls inflation, from 1.7 percent in March, pres- report for April on Friday, which will signal the longer-term sured the ECB to cut rates to honor its man- prospects for the Fed’s monetary stimulus. date to deliver price stability, which it Bullion has now recovered around half of the massive loss- defines as inflation close to but below 2 es incurred between April 12 and 16 on fears of a withdrawal percent. The sudden slump in price pres- of the Fed’s monetary stimulus and after the European Central sures has also raised the possibility of the Bank and the International Monetary Fund asked Cyprus to sell ECB having to look at policy tools beyond reserves as part of a bailout deal. But traders believe downside interest rates to counter any further slide in risks persist. “My view is that the relief rally of last week is over and that we will see lower prices again, not necessarily in the inflation. “Ultimately, we think the ECB will violent way we witnessed a couple of weeks ago, but rather a have to purchase private-sector assets in drift downwards,” Marex Spectron, head of precious metals at order to fix the transmission mechanism,” David Govett, said in a note. said Andrew Bosomworth at PIMCO, the world’s largest bond fund. The ECB wants PHYSICAL MARKET SLOWER to improve the transmission of its mone- Physical market activity slowed after a recent surge in the tary policy so its low rates reach all corners purchase of gold bars, coins and nuggets across Asia sent pre- of the euro- zone. The bloc’s south is not miums for gold bars to multi-year highs. Gold’s second-largest benefiting to the same extent as the north consumer China resumed trading after a three-day holiday, from the ultra-low rates. If they are lending but demand seemed slower than a week ago, while the physi- at all, banks there are charging companies cal market in Hong Kong was also easier. “The Chinese market and households more for loans than their opened again overnight, but little in the way of gold buying peers in the north because of higher fund- was seen, which is slightly disappointing given the fact that ing costs and credit risks. prices are thirty to forty dollars lower than when they went on holiday,” Marex Spectron said. SMALL COMPANIES, BIG PROBLEM Gold’s sell-off last month has widened a disconnect The ECB has repeatedly voiced its con- between funds that sold on dissatisfaction over bullion’s cern about the impact this has on lending underperformance and individual investors who could not get to small- and medium-sized enterprises enough physical gold coins and bars at bargain prices. SPDR (SMEs), which have little alternative to Gold Trust, the world’s largest gold-backed exchange-traded bank funding and are a key engine for fund, said its holdings fell 0.31 percent to 1,075.23 tons on growth in the currency bloc. It has said it Wednesday, the lowest since September 2009. In other pre- is studying options to address the prob- cious metals, silver rose 1.1 percent to $23.83 an ounce. lem, but little is expected to have been Platinum was up 0.7 percent to $1,480.76 an ounce. Palladium FRANKFURT: The new headquarters of the European Central Bank is under decided at yesterday’s policy meeting. It is was down 0.2 percent to $684.22, having hit a two-week high construction in Frankfurt, Germany. The governing council of the ECB met in one of two that the ECB holds outside of of $700.72 on Tuesday. — Reuters Slovakia yesterday. — AP Frankfurt each year. “We suspect that the ECB will avoid making any formal statement on a poten- tial SME program ... as it continues to OECD warns Italy to cut its heavy debt weigh the pros and cons of such meas- ures,” said Frederik Ducrozet, senior euro- MILAN: Italy has taken important steps to correct of the euro-zone’s third biggest economy. “Fiscal tries are supposed to maintain public debt of no zone economist at CrÈdit Agricole CIB. its public finances but the country’s new govern- measures should concentrate on spending more than 60 percent of GDP. As for growth, the Some ECB policymakers are reluctant to try ment must pursue reforms and cut its heavy debt, restraint,” the OECD report added. OECD expected Italian business activity to decline to fix too many of the euro-zone’s prob- the OECD said yesterday as new Prime Minister Presenting the report in Rome, OECD by 1.5 percent this year before expanding by a lems, eager to push onto governments the Enrico Letta met with European leaders in Brussels. Secretary-General Angel Gurria said Italy had an slight 0.5 percent in 2014, owing largely to “poor issue of dealing with SME lending. Draghi The assessment by the Organization for Economic “enormous responsibility”. “There have been dan- competitiveness, a drop in bank lending and the must balance this reluctance with the pres- Cooperation and Development came as Letta gerous moments” when the country risked falling immediate impact of public spending cuts and tax sure for action. seeks allies across Europe for a stronger focus on into the clutches of the euro-zone debt crisis in rises on households and businesses.” In Germany, the ECB has even faced growth and less pressure on fiscal discipline. 2011, “and it is for that reason that Italy must suc- The organization forecast that Italy’s public resistance to a rate cut. German Chancellor But “with the public debt-to-GDP ratio nearing ceed, not only for Italy but for Europe, and with deficit would stand at 3.3 percent of GDP this year Angela Merkel said last week the ECB 130 percent and a heavy debt redemption sched- Europe, the world,” he said. The OECD said in the and rise to 3.8 percent in 2014, which means it would have to raise rates if it were looking ule, Italy remains exposed to sudden changes in report that it did not expect a rapid reduction of would remain above the nominal EU limit of 3.0 at Germany alone. German insurers and financial market sentiment,” an OECD economic Italy’s debt load, forecasting that it would rise to percent. “Amid recession and rising unemploy- the county’s dominant savings and coop- survey warned. “Large and sustained reductions in 134 percent of gross domestic product (GDP) next ment it is sometimes difficult to see light at the erative banking sector have also joined up public debt are therefore the top fiscal priority,” year, and might increase further barring budget end of the tunnel. But I am convinced that a com- to speak out against looser ECB monetary the report added. It urged Letta to “consolidate” cuts or privatizations. mitment to the current reform strategy will result policy, saying it would have little economic structural reforms launched by his predecessor The previous Italian government forecast that in better living standards and a stronger, more impact and undermined savings needed to Mario Monti and to come up with additional ways public debt would peak at 130.4 percent of GDP dynamic Italian economy,” the report quoted protect the country’s rapidly ageing popu- to boost growth and productivity, the weak points this year and begin to decline after that. EU coun- Gurria as saying. —AFP lation.— Reuters Business FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Europe seeking end to ‘nightmare’ youth unemployment

BRUSSELS: Europe needs to come up ty alone” and must kickstart an econo- EU,” he said. “It is important for us to “maintain the engagements of previ- with a plan within weeks to end the my that shrank seven percent in the have in June some important signals ous governments” with the “nightmare” of mounting youth unem- five years up to 2012 and is forecast to for European citizens in terms of recov- Commission to meet euro-zone debt ployment, Italy’s new premier Enrico contract further this year. Letta ering hope and confidence,” Letta and deficit targets. Letta and European Commission chief stressed too that Brussels must show it added in reference to the June summit. Barroso cautioned that while shar- Jose Manuel Barroso said yesterday. could deliver by dealing with jobless- Letta, who was sworn in after a two- ing Letta’s view of the urgent need for Winding up his first European tour ness that threatens to leave behind a month political impasse, on Monday growth and job-enhancing measures since being sworn in on Sunday, Letta lost generation of European youth. announced a series of measures worth “we are also both firmly convinced that urged the European Union to offer “Youth unemployment, that is the around 10 billion euros ($13 billion) to you can only build lasting growth and “concrete” measures to its recession- real nightmare of my country and the spur growth but pledged in Brussels to competitiveness on the back of hit citizens and jobless youths in order healthy public finances.” “Every euro to revive hope in the EU’s future. spent on debt is a euro not invested in Barroso, often slammed for pushing jobs,” he said. But the Commission an austerity agenda that is costing mil- president acknowledged that a 120- lions of jobs and undermining support billion-euro EU growth pact was prov- for the European project, responded ing “below our expectations” and by urging the union’s 27 leaders to called on leaders of the bloc to sign up come up with a package against youth to “a more ambitious plan to fight unemployment at a June 27-28 sum- youth unemployment”. mit. “We must revive hope, especially New data this week showing unem- for young people,” Barroso said. “We ployment at a record high of 12.1 per- cannot wait for long, we are all aware cent, or 19 million people, out of work this is urgent.” The pair spoke at a brief in the 17-nation euro-zone, offered news conference held shortly before frightening new figures on youth the European Central Bank decided unemployment. One out of four under- whether to cut interest rates to a new 25s was on the dole in the EU in March low as calls mount across the 17-nation but almost two in three in Greece and euro-zone for a focus on growth rather Spain. The Eurostat statistics agency than austerity. said that 24 percent of under-25s were In talks in Berlin and Paris, the new jobless in the euro-zone, and 23.5 per- leader of the euro-zone’s third largest CHATTANOOGA: Donna Van Natten, with The Enterprise Center (left) and cent in the 27-nation EU against 22.5 economy hammered home his mes- Valoria Armstrong with the Tennessee American Water Co converse dur- percent and 22.6 percent a year earlier, sage that Italy was “dying from austeri- ing a job fair held at the Urban League in Chattanooga, Tenn. — AP respectively. —AFP

MasterCard Qatar M&A drive may cause profit rises, but some to reprice credit risk economy ‘choppy’ Blue-chip Qatar firms expanding around Middle East NEW YORK: Payments processor MasterCard Inc. said that its profit and revenue rose in the first quarter as card DUBAI: A foreign acquisition drive by appetite of Qatari credits could start to meaningful debt increases from the users spent more. Profit beat the forecasts of Wall Street Qatari companies is winning the gas- get priced into credit spreads, with or acquisition will lead to a downgrade,” analysts, though revenue missed slightly and the com- rich country international attention without rating agency action.” said the agency, which currently rates pany’s stock fell in midday trading. Company executives and economic influence around the Ooredoo as A. Ooredoo is also majority sketched a picture of a mixed global economy and a US region. But it may have a less positive ACQUISITIVE shareholder in Iraqi telecommunica- consumer suffering from the payroll tax hike that took effect on the bond prices of some of QNB is probably the most acquisi- tions operator Asiacell and holds 90 effect in January. The results showed stronger growth the companies. Blue-chip bond issuers tive bank in the Gulf Arab region. After percent of Tunisiana in Tunisia. outside the US than at home, with purchases in Asia, the such as Qatar National Bank and securing stakes in banks in Egypt, Middle East and Africa growing the most. telecommunications operator Libya, the United Arab Emirates and APPETITE The Purchase, NY, company does business all over the Ooredoo, formerly known as Qatar Iraq, it is scouting for a majority stake in Regardless of acquisition activities, world, and its results are a window into how people are Telecom, are leading the M&A drive. a top-ten Turkish bank. It is not the the bonds of Qatari companies are like- spending - and how they’re feeling about the economy - In the past, when their business only Qatari lender which feels the need ly to remain in demand among interna- on all different income levels. In the US, consumer focus was primarily domestic, these to move beyond its crowded domestic tional investors looking for exposure to spending was relatively strong in January after a weak partly state-owned companies were market. Commercial Bank of Qatar the Middle East, partly because of the holiday season, MasterCard executives said. But it viewed by many investors as essential- agreed to buy a 70.8 percent stake in scarcity of investment-grade credits slowed in February and March, and MasterCard leaders ly part of the Qatar government, which Turkish lender Alternatifbank in March, from the region. But the bonds of both guessed that was because consumers were registering is rated AA by Standard & Poor’s. The and has reportedly hired two banks for QNB and Ooredoo have come under the effect of the higher payroll taxes, a result of negotia- companies could price bond issues a potential bond sale to boost capital. pressure in secondary market trading tions over the federal budget in Washington. very close to the sovereign curve, with Outside the banking sector, in recent weeks. The US economy in the first quarter “was definitely almost no new-issue premium. Spreads Ooredoo is going head-to-head with QNB’s most recent issue, maturing very choppy,” MasterCard Chief Financial Officer Martina on their bonds may now start to reflect the UAE’s Etisalat for Vivendi’s stake in in 2020, has struggled in the secondary Hund-Mejean said in an interview with The Associated the higher risk associated with their Morocco’s Maroc Telecom, which is val- market since its issue in April. It was Press. She expects the current quarter to be muted as global expansion strategy, even ued at about $6 billion. “So far Qtel’s bid at 99.296 cents on the dollar yester- well. “We have still a very high unemployment rate, though the companies can probably acquisitions have been successful, day to yield 2.99 percent, up from 2.98 housing is just starting to get better, all the discussion in still count on government support if even the ones in the riskier regions percent last week. The bond is offering Washington about the fiscal debt - that makes people needed. such as Iraq,” said Apostolos Bantis, over 20 basis points more than National feel uncomfortable,” Hund-Mejean said. “So there are a Investors may look at how much emerging markets credit analyst at Bank of Abu Dhabi’s 2019 maturity, for number of things that are not resolved.” debt the companies take on to fund Commerzbank in London. an extended maturity of just eight CEO Ajay Banga said he was pleased that the first- their acquisitions, and the risks But he voiced caution about the months. Both banks are rated Aa3 by quarter results met the company’s own expectations, involved in operating in unstable coun- Maroc Telecom stake. “Qtel’s contem- Moody’s. Commerzbank’s Bantis said despite the “challenging economic conditions.” He said US tries in the region. “This raises the plated Morocco transaction is a bit he believed the underperformance of consumers had also been hurt in the first quarter by high question of whether investors in Qtel questionable and perhaps if it finally QNB’s last two bond issues had more to prices for food and gas, as well as winter storms in March. or QNB bonds are buying Qatar risk, or goes ahead may result in some volatili- do with overall spread compression in Sterne Agee analyst Greg Smith described the quarter as “a a combination of Iraq, Indonesia, ty on its bonds.” Last week, S&P placed global markets and aggressive pricing slow start,” with some measures of revenue lighter than he Tunisia or potentially Morocco risk,” its long and short-term corporate cred- than its acquisition activity. But the expected. Overall, though, results were in line with expec- credit analysts at Standard Chartered it ratings for Ooredoo on creditwatch yield on Ooredoo’s $1 billion, 2023 noted in a research report. “Thus, the “negative” after the company submit- bond has widened over 20 bps since tations, Smith said in a note to clients. —AP increasingly aggressive acquisition ted a binding bid for the stake. “Any the beginning of this year. —Reuters FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 THEY ARE THE 99!

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

THE FASCINATING STORY OF THE 99 Baghdad lies in ruins, destroyed by the marauding armies of Hulagu Khan. The brave librarians of the great Dar Al-Hikma rush to save the glory of the ancient world’s Visit the99kids.com for free accumulated wisdom, little knowing that centuries later their efforts will bear strange fruit. While the Noor Stones were created to save the library, their power games featuring THE 99! has transcended that task and in our own time has provided extraordinary abilities to an international group of young people, the world’s newest superheroes known as… The 99. THE99FanPage @THE99Comics THE99Comics

www.the99.org The 99 ® and all related characters ® and © 2013, Teshkeel Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved. Media Group, Inc. Teshkeel The 99 ® and all related characters ® and © 2013, Opinion FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

In this photo taken on April 27, 2013, a Buddhist (right) and a Muslim man a barricade they set up about a month ago in Mingalar Taung Nyunt township in Yangon. — AP In Myanmar, living in fear amid religious violence

By Erika Kinetz this week. On Tuesday, a Muslim woman and Buddhist monk Mingalar Taung Nyunt township have been closed, as a precautionary bumped into each other at a crowded market, knocking the monk’s measure, since late March. In Kyauk Myaung, 969 followers have been hey have seen how the troubles start from the smallest things. alms bowl to the ground. opening religious schools for Buddhist children. The schools are run They have seen the police powerless before mobs fired with reli- By Wednesday, one man was dead, and nearly 160 mosques, by the Hitataya Foundation, which was founded by Wimalar Tgious zeal and armed with bricks and swords. They have seen on homes and shops had been destroyed. Stunned women and children Biwuntha, one of the monks who started the 969 movement. He is TV and in newspapers the burning homes of people just like them sat staring at wisps of smoke rising from a field of charred beams and part of a network of monks in southern Mon state whose motto is: light up the night. And so they have erected rusted barbed-wire barri- ash where they used to live. Okkan had a neighborhood watch, but it “We will make fences of our bones if we must.” cades and volunteered to sit on street corners, 10 men at time, watch- was unable to stop the attack. “This country is like a lawless country,” “It means it is noble and great to die for the religion,” says 969 sup- ing for signs of trouble through the night. Fear courses through the says Ko Aye Thaung a thickset 48-year-old from one of the Muslim vil- porter Swe Aung. An herbal medicine salesman, Swe Aung spends his streets of Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest city, especially among its lages in Okkan that were destroyed. “The whole village was burned Sundays as a volunteer teacher at Hitataya Foundation schools. Muslim minority. They have watched the country’s spreading reli- down, it was like nothing happened.” Around 20 such schools have opened in Yangon since September, he gious violence, which threatens to destabilize its fragile democracy, Mingalar Taung Nyunt organized its neighborhood watch after the says, while nationwide there are more than 200. Rows of students in creep closer to home. With little faith in the government’s ability to March Meikhtila riots. Tun Kyi, a 45-year-old Muslim activist who matching brown sashes given to them by the foundation bow before protect them and a growing movement of Buddhist extremism, some helped form the group, says that if trouble comes, he will call in the a monk at Zay Ya Mingalar monastery. Organizers say 300 students feel they have little choice but to try to defend themselves. monks from one of the township’s Buddhist monasteries to restore have registered at this school alone. Teachers say the curriculum Residents in some neighborhoods have started their own patrols. peace. He does not mention the police. A few weeks ago, a car sped focuses on Buddhist morality, history and meditation. “We don’t teach They have shuttered Muslim schools, which have been the target of through, driving crazily, packed with boys shouting insults. People the children to hate,” says Swe Aung. attacks elsewhere. A few lucky enough to get tourist visas to Muslim- took it as a warning. Swe Aung is also scared, of religious violence and Muslim world majority Malaysia have simply left. The once-bustling streets of “We chased them, and they ran away,” says Thant Zaw, a 26-year- domination. A map purporting to show that 64 percent of the world’s Mingalar Taung Nyunt, a Yangon township where Buddhists and old Muslim shopkeeper who naps two hours to make up for the sleep population is Muslim hangs at the front of the class. A study by the Muslims live side by side, grow quiet around 10 pm. An occasional he loses manning one of five informal checkpoints on his street Pew Research Center and the John Templeton Foundation found that cycle rickshaw passes beneath the few functioning streetlights. Jury- overnight. Next to him, Thura Than, a 25-year-old shopkeeper, ges- Muslims made up 23.4 percent of the world’s population in 2010. “I’m rigged roadblocks of desks, street carts and barbed wire barricades tures to a young man with tattoos running down his muscled arms. afraid of the Muslim people, so I want to build a fence,” Swe Aung dot the corners. “I’m Muslim and he’s Buddhist,” he says. “We don’t worry about peo- says. “In Islam, they have the right to kill according to their religion The neighborhood watch volunteers, who man the corners from ple here. We worry about outsiders.” and they can go to heaven. If the Muslim community can guarantee 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., are armed only with mobile phones. Some 50 block Adding to the unease is the growth of a radical Buddhist move- that they will not kill Buddhist people, we will shop and eat in their leaders have pledged to call each other at the first sign of trouble. ment called 969, which was founded late last year. It urges Buddhists shops and let them live in our homes.” Others patrol the streets in a van and a ramshackle truck plastered to shop only at Buddhist stores and not to marry, sell property to or When night falls, the residents of Mingalar Taung Nyunt and Kyauk with peace stickers. “This group is not just for Buddhists or Muslims, hire Muslims. Though 969 professes to be peaceful, some residents of Myaung prefer to stay apart. Near midnight, slim silhouettes appear it’s for everybody who lives in this township,” says Khin Maryar Htwee, Okkan believe this week’s violence is related to the 969 stickers that on the balconies of Mingalar Taung Nyunt, suspicious of the visiting a 36-year-old Muslim woman who helped organize the group. “We now adorn most motorbikes in town, and local politician Myint Thein journalists on the rough street below. Who has come? What’s wrong? have lived in this community forever. We are afraid this relationship says 969 supporters were involved in the riots. Tun Kyi, of Mingalar Young men come out of their homes and gather near the checkpoint. will break up. That’s why all religions are volunteering.” Taung Nyunt township’s neighborhood watch program, says harass- They are afraid of 969. Afraid of arrest. Afraid their houses will be The religious violence started last year in remote Rakhine state, ment of Muslims has worsened with the spread of 969 in Yangon. “It’s burned down. They are afraid of conspiracies they will never be able where at least 192 people died in two outbreaks of violence. Then in because of the 969 effect,” he says. to prove. They are afraid the tender fabric of their mixed neighbor- March an altercation in a gold shop in Meikhtila in central Myanmar The movement has caught on in Kyauk Myaung, a nearby hood, will be torn apart by large, dark forces they cannot control. “It’s sparked three days of rioting that killed at least 43 while police stood Buddhist-only neighborhood. Even before 969, residents wouldn’t sell a sensitive situation,” says Khin Maryar Htwee, hustling the journalists idly by. The chaos reached Okkan, roughly 80 km north of Yangon, or rent their homes to Muslims. Around 10 Islamic religious schools in away. “They’ve had trauma. It can’t be cured.” — AP FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 www.kuwaittimes.net sails into HongKong Giant rubber duck Top ofthe bill: See Page37 FOOD FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

truly is liquid gold

Just how much do we know

Olive oil Olive about this wonder oil?

live oil is the pure oil obtained ing for a natural ‘inhibitor’, you need look smooth wrinkles that can form around studies have proved that people with Ofrom the fruit of olive trees. No oil no further than olive oil, which has a lipid the eyes. diets containing high levels of olive oil obtained using solvents, re-etheri- profile very close to that of human skin. The health benefits of olive oil are are less likely to develop rheumatoid fication processes, or mixed with other Olive oil has a large proportion of vita- extensive with new positive attributes dis- arthritis. vegetable oils qualifies under this mins A, D, and K, as well as vitamin E, covered all the time. One prominent car- description. Olive oils described as ‘virgin’ which is a key source of protein needed in diologist recommends at least two table- Osteoporosis: A high consumption of are those that have been obtained from the fight against free radicals. This makes spoons of extra virgin olive oil each day. olive oil appears to improve bone miner- the original fruit without having been olive oil particularly helpful in the fight At present it is believed that in addition to alization and calcification. It helps calci- synthetically treated. Once the olives against skin disorders such as acne, psoria- bolstering the immune system and help- um absorption and so plays an important have been picked, pressed, and washed, sis, and seborrheic eczemas. More general- ing to protect against viruses, olive oil is role in aiding sufferers and in preventing no other process has taken place other ly, olive oil can be used daily to improve also effective in fighting against diseases the onset of Osteoporosis. than decantation, and centrifugation to the condition of skin in the following ways: such as the following: Olive oil is one of the best sources of extract the oil, and filtration. The best monounsaturated fats and has the quality of olive oil available is described As an exfoliator: Mixing olive oil with Heart Disease: Olive oil helps lower advantage of being less susceptible to as ‘extra virgin’. sea salt and massaging into an affected levels of blood cholesterol leading to oxidation. Since ancient times olive oil has been area helps remove dead skin and enrich the heart disease. Oxident Stress: Olive oil In addition, oleic acid, a fatty acid contains antioxidents such as Vitimin E, abundant in olive oil, appears to also pro- carotenoids and phenolic compounds tect from oxidation of LDL. It is important which also help lead to long life. to note that to achieve this reduction in The SUN (Seguimiento University of Navarra) study bad cholesterol you cannot just add olive Cancer: Studies suggest that olive oil oil to a diet rich in saturated and trans fats exerts a protective effect against certain and expect a miracle. You must replace with over 6,000 participants found that olive oil malignant tumors (breast, prostate, the unhealthy fats with olive oil in combi- endometrium, digestive tract). A number nation with a Mediterranean-style diet. intake reduced the incidence of hypertension in men, of research studies have documented The SUN (Seguimiento University of that olive oil reduces the risk of breast Navarra) study with over 6,000 partici- while another Spanish study published in the cancer. Eating a healthy diet with olive oil pants found that olive oil intake reduced as the main source of fat could consider- the incidence of hypertension in men, American Journal of Hypertension found that a diet ably lower cancer incidence. while another Spanish study published in Blood Pressure: Recent studies indi- the American Journal of Hypertension containing polyphenol rich olive oil reduced blood cate that regular consumption of olive oil found that a diet containing polyphenol can help decrease both systolic (maxi- rich olive oil reduced blood pressure in mum) and diastolic (minimum) blood young women with mild hypertension. pressure in young women with mild hypertension. pressure. Although olive oil is better known for its protection against heart disease and Diabetes: It has been demonstrated cancer, there is an emerging amount of used as a way to moisturize and help reju- healthier layers below it. Adding oil to a that a diet that is rich in olive oil, low in research regarding the effect of olive oil venate damaged skin. As we age our skin bath also helps moisturize the whole body. saturated fats, moderately rich in carbo- on cognitive function and, specifically, deteriorates and its inner and outer layers hydrates and soluble fiber from fruit, veg- on cognitive decline associated with (dermis and epidermis) grow much thin- In nail and cuticle care: Extra virgin etables, pulses and grains is the most aging. Generally, the type of fat con- ner. The stresses and strains of aging also olive oil is a simple solution for dry nails effective approach for diabetics. It helps sumed can affect cognitive function. cause the skin to lose elasticity, which and cuticles. By rubbing a few drops into lower “bad” low density lipoproteins A recent study from Brigham and soon becomes noticeable as wrinkles. the cuticle area and around the nail, cuti- while improving blood sugar control and Women’s Hospital, a teaching affiliate of External factors, such as the sun’s rays can cles stay moist, and nails respond with a enhances insulin sensitivity. Harvard Medical School, analyzed data also speed up the aging process by gener- natural shine. from 6,000 women over the age of 65, a ating what are called ‘free radicals’. The Obesity: Although high in calories, subset of the Women’s Health Study. good news is that it’s possible to reduce As an eye makeup remover: A drop olive oil has shown to help reduce levels They found that women who consumed the damage done to cells by using or two of extra virgin olive oil on a cotton of obesity. the highest amount of monounsaturated ‘inhibitors’ that lower the risk. There are pad helps to gently and effectively fats, which can be found in olive oil, had many creams and lotions on the market remove eye makeup without irritating Rheumatoid Arthritis: Although the better patterns of cognitive scores over that can help with this but if you’re look- the delicate skin. Olive oil also helps to reasons are still not fully clear, recent time. — Oliveoiltimes.com FOOD FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Healthy doughnuts do exist

By Lori Powell

verybody can eat doughnuts finally! Well, these baked ones are Ethe way to go to cut the fat and calories. Bake these guilt-free treats for the kids, and plus, we’ll show you how to prepare four different delectable toppings. Firstly the ingredients required to pre- pare the Buttermilk doughnuts are as follows: Nonstick cooking spray 1 cup whole-wheat flour 1 cup all-purpose flour 1/2 cup sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup low-fat buttermilk (1 percent) 2 large eggs 1/4 cup honey 2 tablespoons melted butter 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

Preparation Chocolate-Hazelnut: Melt 6 ounces bittersweet chocolate in a bowl in microwave until smooth. Dip tops 1. Preheat oven to 425∞. Lightly coat a doughnut pan of doughnuts into chocolate and place chocolate side with cooking spray. up on a rack to cool. Sprinkle with 1/2 cup chopped 2. Combine flours and next 4 ingredients (through hazelnuts; let sit about 10 minutes. salt) in a large bowl, stirring well with a whisk. Chocolate Swirl: Melt 4 ounces (1 cup) bittersweet 3. Combine buttermilk, eggs, honey, butter, and chocolate in microwave until smooth. Fill a small vanilla, stirring well with a whisk. Add buttermilk mixture squeeze bottle or zip-top plastic bag (snip a tiny hole in to flour mixture; whisk just until combined. 1 corner of bag) with melted chocolate; pipe chocolate 4. Spoon batter into doughnut pans, filling two thirds onto tops of doughnuts. Chill doughnuts until chocolate full. Bake in middle of oven until doughnuts spring back sets (about 10 minutes). when touched and are golden on bottom (about 8 min- Cinnamon Sugar: Combine 1/4 cup ground cinna- utes). Let cool in pan slightly (about 4 minutes); turn out. mon and 1/4 cup sugar. While still warm, coat dough- Coat with toppings, if desired. nuts in sugar; let cool on rack, sugar-coated side up. The following are the ingredients and steps taken to Traditional doughnuts are fried in oil, so they’re prepare the four different toppings. loaded with fat. We cut the calories and fat by baking Glazed: Combine 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ours in a Wilton Doughnut Pan . and 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar, stirring well with a So all of you out there why not try some healthy whisk. Dip 1 side of the cooled doughnuts into glaze; let donuts, it’s brilliant! — Health.com cool on a rack, glazed side up. Travel FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

‘Ayo Bowan’: The wonder of Sri Lanka

ri Lanka is an island floating in the blue waters of the along the coastline for 273 km up to Hambantota. This is defi- SIndian Ocean and the Bay of Bengal. Endowed with over nitely the better developed of the two circuits and accounts a thousand miles of beautiful golden beaches fringed for most of the hotels and the resorts. South of Colombo is with coconut palms. A large percentage of Sri Lankan hotels called the ‘Cold Coast’ and the resorts stretch from Mt Lavinia and resorts are located along the seacoast. The main attrac- (a suburb of Colombo) along Wadduwa, Kalutara, Beruwala, tion for the most part is on the beaches and the resorts and Bentota, Induruwa, Kosgoda, Ahungalla, Hikkaduwa, Calle, less on the nearby towns and villages. However, some places Unawatuna, Koggala, We- ligama, Dickewalla, Tangalle and like Galle on the west coast with its historical heritage, are finally Hambantota. The southern beaches are sandier than included in the attraction even without the lure of the sun and the western ones and do not shelve steeply into the sea. sand. You can also stop on the drive down in the west coast While the eastern and northern coast beaches stretches for interesting side trips like visiting a batik factory or a turtle north in a gentle arc from Arugam Bay till Kuchchaveli approx- hatchery, paying your respects at the local temple or sampling imately 275 km up on the eastern coastline. Fine beaches are the local fruit. typically wide stretches of sand and what seems like miles of Sri Lanka is a paradise island offering visitors incomparable clear, shallow water, pretty bays and coves, deep natural har- beach holidays. With the aquamarine waters of the Indian bors, still lagoons and underwater coral gardens. The best Ocean gently lap- ones are those of Nilaveli, Kuchchaveli, Marble Bay, Sweat Bay ping its pristine and Dead Man’s Cove, with its magnificent harbor, north of shores, Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee. The southern section includes the peaceful beaches are cov- beaches of Passekudah, Kalkudah and Arugam Bay. Sri Lanka’s ered with soft beach life is very seasonal. The island has not one but two warm sand. Home annual monsoons, which come from different directions and to tropical fish affect different regions. Colombo and other south-west and living corals coastal areas are fairly sodden between April and October, so the waters sur- the peak season here is from November to March. The east rounding Sri coast is usually decidedly damp from November until Lanka are warm February and at its sunniest from March to October, although thanks to the travel to this area is not entirely recommended. Meanwhile, tropical climate inland-particularly in hilly areas, the weather is both sunny the island enjoys. and wet all year round. Accommodation is not a problem. With over 1,300 There is a wide choice, not only when it comes to locations, km of beach on but also quality and price. As mentioned earlier, the most offer, all you have developed are resorts of the south and the west coasts, where to do is come to luxurious comfort and all the five star amenities, adventure Sri Lanka and tours, animation are as much a part of the service as fine spend hours of accommodation and international cuisine. There are also fun in the sun. boarding, canoeing, sailing, boating, deep sea fishing, water Whether you are polo, water gymnastics, water and jet scooter racing and looking to just banana boat riding. Seasonal bathing is available off the sea relax in the sun and river fronts of many hotels and of course there is always and get the per- the fresh or sea water swimming pool. The food is cosmopoli- fect tan or if you tan. Of course, sea food is fresh and plentiful and most hotels are looking for innovate creatively with the wide variety available. There is a more action such fairly extensive choice between spicy Sri Lankan food and as surfing, diving standard international fare. An abundance of local tropical or jet skiing, Sri fruit and fruit juices is an essential feature of the buffet table. Lanka has much Some of the beaches to be visited in Sri Lanka are as fol- to offer with its lows. Apart from the ancient monumental structures, Jaffna world renowned has some spectacular beaches. These beaches draw the maxi- best beaches. The mum number of tourists and they too love top busk in sun- western and light in the wonderful sandy beaches of Jaffna. However, of all southern coast the beaches in the city, Casuarina Beach is at Karainagar and beaches begins there are good beaches as well at Santhakulam and from Negombo, Thondaimannar. The Tourism Board of Sri Lanka is of great 13 km north of help in planning tours to Jaffna. Colombo and Kalkudah Beach and Passekudah Bay is the ultimate call for curves south all the wanderlust travelers in search of some relaxation com- Travel FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 bined with some exciting action. Whether you want to try out offering excellent value for money. Tangalle’s series of bays are the modern attraction, white some amazing sport activity like snorkeling, wind surfing or Mannar Island is probably the driest, most barren area in Sri sandy beach of Medaketiya shimmer away from the northeast skiing or just bask in the sun along the beaches of Sri Lanka , Lanka. The landscape features many baobab trees, probably to smaller bays on the west. Trincomalee beach is the ideal this place offers everything for everyone. The delightful sights introduced from Africa by Arab traders centuries ago. Mannar, refuge for the beach addict, with its fine natural harbor and of the rising and falling waves surprises the visitors with the the major town on the island, is at the southern end, joined offers some of the best sea bathing in the country. Horatio natural beauty that it exhibits. Kalkudah beach on the east the mainland by a 3 km causeway. It’s not interesting apart Nelson, the British admiral of the 18th century had described coast, is one among the many stunning beaches of Sri Lanka. from its picturesque Portuguese/Dutch fort. Talaimannar, near Trincomalee as the finest harbor in the world. The hot wells Kalkudah Bay is a 2 km long wide stretch of beach, located the western end, is about 3 km from the pier that was the and the Pigeon Islands are the important places of tourist 32 km north of Batticaloa. Kalkudah and Passekudah are two arrival and departure point of the ferry for India that operated interest in the vicinity. There is an old Portuguese/Dutch fort very fine beaches in the East Coast of Sri Lanka. One of the until 1984. A little farther west, an abandoned lighthouse at reminiscent of the Colonial era. best stretches of beach in Sri Lanka is the East Coast which South Point marks the start of Adam’s bridge, the chain of Unawatuna beach which is near Galle is a beautiful wide runs to more than 300 km. It is well protected from the mon- reefs, sandbanks and islets that almost connects Sri Lanka to curving golden beach. The beach has been acclaimed soon by an off shore reef. Passekudah Bay is another wide India. Mirissa Beach is situated on the Matara road 4 km south- amongst 12 best beaches in the world. There is a reef protect- beach 4 km long just south of Kalkudah. The combined beach- east of Weligama. It marks one of the country’s most beautiful ing the beach, which makes it safe for bathing. The serene sur- es of Kalkudah and Passekudah are ideal for bathing as the sea beach. Its headland separates its small fishing harbor from its roundings and the Dutch architecture add to the charm of the is clear, calm and reef protected. It is a favorite among the beautiful curve of sandy beach with calm, clear waters. Mirissa place. Weligama Beach is 27 km from Galle with its pictur- nature lovers and for those looking for some exciting water is the alternative for quieter place to Unawatuna or esque bay, and an off shore islet where a French Count built sport activity. The Kalkudah beach provides a perfect setting Hikkaduwa. his dream house. It is where you will see the famous stilt fish- for sun bathing, windsurfing , and skiing. The beach also hous- Mount Lavinia Beach is just 12 km south of Colombo. It is ermen. es a varied number of tropical fishes and exotic coral reefs. an immediate city suburb and this beach is known even in The combined area of Kalkudah and Passekudah was colonial times. It lies alongside a windswept headland jutting declared as the National Holiday resort in 1973. Kalkudah is into the waters of the Indian Ocean. The sand is the softest one of the finest beaches in the east coast on the way to and the waves calm and clear. Negombo Beach, a characteris- Batticaloa. It is also emerging as a popular tourist centre with tic fishing town 37 km north of Colombo. Set amid lush groves many modern hotel facilities. May to September is considered of coconut palms, it breathes the spirit of the sea. Negombo is as the best time to visit east coast, as it is dry during this peri- a gourmet’s paradise with sea food in plenty. Old world fishing od and the surfers can go for sun bathing , wind surfing with- craft like the outrigger canoe and the catamaran bring seer, out much difficulty. The beach adorned with coconut palms is skip jack, herring and mullet, pomfret and amber - jack while truly one of the finest stretch in the east coast of Sri Lanka and lobster and prawns are caught in the lagoon. no wonder it emerges as a popular tourist destination. Nilaveli beach is 4 km from Trincomalee. It was the venue Koggala beach is about 12 km south of Galle. It is one of the for the 1985 International Funboard Championships. The most enchanting in Sri Lanka. Stilt fisherman are a familiar beach has ample water sports facilities including fishing and sight here. Kalutara Beach is two and a half hour’s drive from sea angling. Whale watching in the sanctuary is a speciality. the airport, this small yet busy town is well known for its iconic Pigeon Island, a ten-minute boat ride from the Nilaveli beach, Gangatilaka Vihara. Markets and small shops make up this sea- is an ideal place to skin/scuba dive, or to just have a sun bath. side down and it’s fascinating to watch the locals trade, from A few metres from the coast is a small rocky island good for coconut fibre products to fresh fish and vegetables. Kalutara’s snorkeling. Tangalle Beach is situated 195 km from Colombo. golden beach is fringed by magnificent palms and is excellent It is one of the nicest spots along the coast, particularly if you for swimming. Stay at Mermaid, an attractive beachfront hotel want somewhere to find a place to laze and soak up the sun. Health FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Cheers to water

Are you drinking water your body it’s time to get started. Like a gently 4. Drink water before a workout. 7. Drink more water to prevent when you need it most? flowing stream that pushes along debris and Depending on the temperature, humidity, illness following exposures. Thirsty? Grab a glass of water. Not only is it rocks, your circulatory system needs fluid to get and your body’s fluid levels, you may need one If you are around sick people in the hospital or free and easily accessible, but it nourishes your rid of stubborn free radicals and residue from or several glasses of water, each about eight at work and school, drink a little more water than body from the inside out. burned calories that were used during the ounces, to arm yourself against dehydration dur- usual to wash away germs and viruses that your night’s metabolism. Refresh your system with a ing an indoor or outdoor workout. Whether you body may have picked up from exposure to these How do you feel about drinking water? drink of water. play for a sports team or simply jog for personal people. A well hydrated body helps to move along Naturally, you probably drink some water in fitness, hydration is essential to help guard any invaders before they settle down and multiply the course of a day. Even if you don’t have a glass 2. Drink water before each meal. against heat stroke in warm weather and frost- in your system. Drinking water each day before or of clear water, you can find more limited sources Drinking water before a meal helps you feel bite in cold temperatures, as your body’s circula- after going out in public can help to prevent cer- of drinking water in beverages like tea and cof- fuller, so you may be less likely to attack your tion plays a protective role in both seasons. tain types of viruses, or lessen their severity. fee, and in foods such as soups and stews. meal like a starving person. Water helps prepare Did you know that drinking water could be a the stomach for the food that will follow, waking 5. Drink water after a workout. 8. Drink more water when you’re ill. lifesaver? Pure, clean drinking water does much up taste buds on the tongue and moisturizing Following your exercise session, drink up to When you do become ill, drink plenty of fluids, to keep your body running smoothly and to the stomach lining so brittle or acidic foods replace fluids lost by sweating and physical the old time recipe still works. Most experts rec- guard your health. Want to drink more water to won’t be uncomfortable. Having a glass of water labor. Don’t drink too much too quickly, or you ommend drinking eight glasses of water each day benefit your health? Here are 9 times when your clears your mouth of dryness or leftover tastes could induce stomach cramps. But make sure (eight ounces per glass), in addition to other fluids body needs drinking water the most. from earlier dining, drinking, or smoking in antic- you drink enough so you don’t stay dehydrated. like tea, juice, and soup. People in the hospital ipation of the food that is coming. often have an IV dripping water into their vein 1. Drink water when you first get up. 6. Have water with your continuously so they can keep hydrated as well as Imagine walking into a dark room and look- 3. Drink water with a snack. medication, if allowed. maintain a line to your body if medications are ing for something. Chances are you will stumble Between meals, if you feel hungry, try some If you are allowed to take water with your needed. and maybe even fall unless you turn on the light. fresh drinking water first to see if you are dehy- medication, do so. Water helps to dissolve the Or consider starting your car in sub-zero tem- drated. Sometimes people think they are hungry medication and spread it throughout your 9. Have a glass of water when you’re tired. peratures and putting it into gear without wait- when they really are just thirsty. If you shop at digestive organs for rapid absorption. Water Feeling tired? Fatigued? Need a nap but can’t ing for the engine to warm up. Either situation the grocery store or supermarket while dehy- prepares the tissues to receive the substance take one? Have a glass of water. Because of its ability to move quickly throughout the body, can lead to problems or even disasters. The same drated, chances are you are going to spend more and put it to work right away. is true of the human body. Without water to to subconsciously fill that empty urge. Drinking water can reach your brain and activate it right Water also helps medicine work its way “wake up and turn on” the body each day, you water before a snack, or with one, will help you before a meeting or other situation where you through your system and out the other end, may be running on empty, especially if you skip feel full faster and perhaps eat less, a habit that need to pay attention. Cold water, especially, will which can be beneficial when you take harsh breakfast altogether. Have a glass of cool water could benefit two-thirds of our nation that is wake up your body to keep you alert. right after you wake up in the morning to tell considered overweight or obese. medications with side effects. —www.lifescript.com Lifestyle FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Photos show equipment on display at the Caterpillar Visitors Center in Peoria, Ill. Caterpillar Inc manufactures heavy equipment that bulldozes, digs, lifts and performs other tasks at construction and mining site. — AP photos

ere’s a place where the word caterpillar First thing you experience when you enter the worn-out engine can be born anew with new steel Hdoes not refer to fuzzy little insects. The new center is a movie in a theater that’s built into the fused to old and rebuilt parts added on. Caterpillar Visitors Center is all about the bed of a giant truck used for mining. At 24 feet (7 Kathryn Spitznagle, the Caterpillar Visitors roaring black-and-yellow machines that dig and lift meters) tall, the 797 Mining Truck is the biggest in Center’s manager, says increasing its energy effi- at massive construction and mining sites. the industry. When loaded, this truck can carry well ciency - both in its equipment and in this new facili- Caterpillar Inc, maker of the heavy machinery rang- over a million pounds (over 450,000 kilograms). ty - is a point of pride for the company. The Visitors ing from bulldozers and excavators to tunnel-bor- The tops of the wheels are higher than an NBA bas- Center was built with solar panels that supply up to ing machines and giant generators, is based in the ketball hoop. 75 percent of its energy on a given day, mechanical central Illinois town of Peoria. The company The theater fits 62 people comfortably, and and electrical systems that use 35 percent less opened a nearly 50,000-square-foot (4,645-square- shows a short movie about Caterpillar, its products energy than a similar-size building, and rain water foot) visitors center last fall, investing more than and some of the jobs that have used Cat equip- retention and irrigation systems that reduce $52 million dollars in the center and the Peoria ment. The seats vibrate to the sound of a revving potable water usage by 85 percent. The innova- Riverfront Museum nearby. diesel engine and the action-packed movie really tions won the building an LEED gold certification, My wife was a little dubious about my plans for makes you feel like you’ve ridden in one of these which is awarded by the US Green Building Council a family day trip to the Caterpillar center, but my 4- behemoths. to buildings that meet certain standards for energy year-old-son and I couldn’t wait. My parents tell me After the movie, it’s time to hop into the cabs of and environmental design. my first word was “book” and my second word was an excavator, roller, bulldozer and a handful of oth- “truck.” I’ve been a big fan of both over the past er giant heavy vehicles. My son had to be pried out four-plus decades. Now, with a little boy of my of a backhoe. I was doing the prying, since I wanted own, I had a perfect excuse to satisfy my mania for a chance at the controls. powerful engines, giant wheels, sturdy shovels and The wide open main floor area teems with kids other nifty machines that dig, pound, push, flatten (and adults) grinning for photos while perched and otherwise manipulate materials in ways that inside the giant buckets or scoops of the different seem beyond the strength of mere mortals. And vehicles. You don’t get to drive them around, of I’m not alone: The center attracted 50,000 visitors course, or actually cause the equipment to move. within just four months of opening. But that doesn’t stop fans from having the time of their lives while playing with the controls and let- ting their imaginations do the digging. All the while, the giant mining truck towers above. Alongside all the black-and-yellow machines are four computer simulators where you can see what it’s like to drive an excavator or bulldozer, using the same controllers you would use in the real equip- ment. These simulators are used to train operators before they take out the pricey machines. I man- aged to damage the virtual pipeline I was trying to Last stop at the center is the gift shop, where cover up. you can buy Cat clothes, model equipment, toys Off the main floor, there are extensive exhibits and other gifts featuring the familiar yellow-and- about the company’s history, engineering innova- black design - though the company also offers tions and environmental efforts. The displays are items in pink and camo if you prefer. — AP media-rich, with many monitors showing neat footage like molten steel being formed into engines. One of the big surprises to me was Caterpillar’s attention to environmental sustainability. Engines are designed to be rebuilt and interchangeable. The center has several displays showing how a Lifestyle FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Rapper Chris Kelly dies aged 34

The casket for country music legend George Jones lies in the Grand Ole Opry House before his funeral yesterday. — AP Music City mourns country legend George Jones

housands of fans are expected to join farewell tour that was to have wrapped up continues to have broad influence on the Chris Kelly of Kris Kross performs on stage at the Fox some of country musicís biggest stars with an all-star salute in November in genre, especially with artists who prefer tra- Theatre in Atlanta during the So So Def 20th in mourning George Jones. The late Nashville. He postponed two performances ditional country to todayís pop- and rock- T Anniversary Concert. — AP photos country music superstarís funeral will be two weeks ago and entered the hospital influenced sounds. Jones also had his trou- held Thursday morning at the Grand Ole with a fever and irregular blood pressure. bles as he battled substance abuse and apper Chris Kelly, who shot to fame as part of the Opry House in Nashville, Tenn. Jones died Heíd been ill off and on over the previous money troubles, but always seemed to slide 1990s duo Kriss Kross, has been found dead at his last week at 81. Former first lady Laura Bush year. Jonesí pure, matchless baritone by with his sense of humor and knowing Rhome in Atlanta, reports said yesterday. He was 34. will speak at the funeral along with friends defined the sound of country music for a half grin intact. He won a Grammy and two con- The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reported on its website and fellow country stars Barbara Mandrell century and his death brought universal secutive Country Music Association song of that Kelly’s death was being treated as a possible drug over- and Kenny Chesney. Jones also will be sere- reaction from the music community and the year awards for ìHe Stopped Loving Her dose. The rapper-known by fans as “Mac Daddy”-was found naded by Brad Paisley, Alan Jackson, Tanya fans. Known for hits like ìWhoís Gonna Fill Today,î and was elected to the Country unresponsive at his home on Wednesday and rushed to Tucker, Wynonna Judd, Charlie Daniels and Their Shoes,î ìWhite Lightningî and ìHe Music Hall of Fame in 1992.He was among Atlanta Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. An Randy Travis, who were all scheduled per- Stopped Loving Her Today,î widely acknowl- the artists honored in Washington at the autopsy has been scheduled for yesterday. form at the public memorial with several edged as the greatest country song, Jones Kennedy Center in 2008. The Beaumont, Kelly partnered with Chris “Daddy Mac” Smith to form others. had No. 1s in four decades from the 1950s to Texas, native had been a member of the Kriss Kross in 1990. The duo’s best-known hit was 1992’s The funeral will be broadcast live on the 1980s and ìPossumî remained a popular Grand Ole Opry since 1956, which makes the “Jump” which sold four million copies in the United States cable music television channels CMT and figure in Music City until his death. setting of Thursdayís ceremony all the more and topped the Billboard Hot 100 charts for eight weeks. GAC and - in a nod to simpler times when Once married to Tammy Wynette, he was fitting. The Opry House holds more than Kelly and Smith were known for wearing their clothes Jones was at his biggest - on all local televi- the living embodiment of the words ìcoun- 4,000 people and was expected to be filled back-to-front, a quirk referenced by the singer’s mother sion networks. He was in the midst of a try music starî at the height of his career and beyond capacity. — AP Donna Kelly Pratte in a statement reported by several US media outlets early yesterday. “To millions of fans world- wide, he was the trendsetting, backwards pants-wearing one-half of Kris Kross who loved making music,” she said. Jackson death doctor “But to us, he was just Chris-the kind, generous and fun- loving life of the party. Though he was only with us a short time, we feel blessed to have been able to share some had huge debts, trial hears incredible moments with him.” — AFP ichael Jackson’s doctor Conrad Murray was in dire singer died from an overdose of powerful sedative and anes- financial straits when he was hired to care for the US thetic propofol, administered by Murray to help the “Thriller” Msuperstar, a policeman testified Wednesday. Murray, legend deal with chronic insomnia. At the time of his death, he Beyonce, JLo who was convicted of involuntary manslaughter in 2011 over was rehearsing for a series of 50 shows in London, organized Jackson’s death, had tens of thousands of dollars in debts, with AEG, in an attempt to revive his career and ease his finan- including unpaid student loans, credit card bills and rent on his cial woes. In opening statements Monday, Katherine Jackson’s to headline London charity business, the policeman said at a trial over the late King of lawyer accused AEG of sacrificing the troubled star in a “ruth- Pop’s 2009 death. less” pursuit of profit in the months before his death. concert for women Jackson’s 82-year-old mother Katherine is suing tour pro- But Anschutz Entertainment Group (AEG) lawyer Marvin eyonce, Jennifer Lopez and Florence & The Machine are team- moter AEG Live over her son’s death, accusing it of negligently Putnam argued the mega pop star had hidden the evidence of ing up for a four-hour charity concert in London next month to hiring Murray and ignoring signs that the singer was deeply his addiction and health woes from everyone, including his Bbenefit women’s health and education projects around the unwell, in their pursuit of profits. Her lawyers say Murray’s family and the concert promoters. Putman also said Jackson world. The “Sound of Change Live” concert on June 1 in London’s financial woes made him willing to do whatever Jackson want- was some $400 million dollars in debt when he approached Twickenham sports stadium could fund at least 120 projects support- ed-including giving him the drug that killed him-because he AEG in 2008 with the idea of putting on the London shows, ing girls and women in more than 70 nations, if all the tickets are desperately needed the $150,000 monthly salary on offer. which were to be followed by a global tour and a possible Las sold, organizers said on Wednesday. Detective Orlando Martinez, who investigated Jackson’s death Vegas residency. Organized by the Chime for Change campaign, founded by Italy on June 25, 2009 — days before the tour was due to start-said On Tuesday the first witness at the trial, paramedic Richard fashion house Gucci, every ticket buyer will be able to choose which Murray had debts in various places, including the US states of Senneff, testified that Jackson looked emaciated and like some- project their ticket will fund in what organizers said was a world first Nevada and Missouri, some of over $100,000. one at the end of a chronic illness when he arrived at the scene. for such a venture. Beyonce, currently on a European tour, will play a “Does this substantiate your opinion that Dr Murray was in Wednesday’s court session was shortened because one mem- 45-minute set. She will be joined in the venture by singer and dancer dire financial straits?” Katherine Jackson’s lawyer Brian Panish ber of the six-man, six-woman jury had to attend a family funer- Lopez, R&B artist John Legend, British indie sensation Ellie Goulding asked Martinez in the Los Angeles Superior Court, where the al. The trial continue yesterday, with detective Martinez due to and rapper Timbaland, with more performers still to be announced. trial started Monday. “Yes,” replied Martinez. The 50-year-old take the stand again. —AFP US actors James Franco, Blake Lively and Jada Pinkett Smith will be among the presenters. —Reuters Lifestyle FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Spice Girls musical ‘Viva Forever’ closing in June iva Forever”? Not as it turns Britannia” branding, shot to fame in out. Producers announced 1996 and sold 75 million records “Vyesterday that the Spice around the world. The Spice Girls still Girls musical will close at London’s have many fans, but, 15 years later Piccadilly Theater June 29 after a dis- they were not enough to sustain a appointing six-month run. Producer West End show. Judy Craymer said despite tweaks Craymer, who produced the mega- since the show opened in December, hit ABBA musical “Mamma Mia,” said it “we just can’t make it work.” Written by was “with a heavy heart that we’ve had “Absolutely Fabulous” comedian to make this very difficult decision to Jennifer Saunders, the show is a mod- post closing notices for this original ern-day tale of female friendship and show.” “The show has evolved since mother-daughter bonds set to songs we first opened and is now brighter, by the 1990s “Girl Power” icons. It set lighter and funnier, but despite the out to take a timely satirical axe to our wonderful audiences and extremely information-saturated age of Twitter positive feedback we just can’t make it and TV talent shows, but the critics work,” she said. Emma “Baby Spice” were overwhelmingly hostile. Bunton tweeted that she was “totally The Independent newspaper’s Paul gutted” to learn the show was closing. Taylor called the show “lacking in any In a statement, the Spice Girls thanked truly original or challenging spark,” File photo shows from left, Mel B, Mel C, Geri Halliwell, Emma Bunton and the show’s cast and their fans. while the Daily Telegraph’s Charles Victoria Beckham take the applause on stage at the curtain call for Viva “Although ‘Viva Forever’ won’t contin- Spencer found it “tawdry, lazy and Forever. — AP ue in the West End we are thrilled that unedifying.” Others felt that aside from the thousands of people who came to a few hits - “Wannabe,” “Stop,” “Who Girls’ catalogue was not strong enough show. The five-member group, known the show had as much fun as we did,” Do You Think You Are?” - the Spice to support a two-and-a-half hour for its brash attitude and “Cool the statement said. — AP

Capsule reviews of new movie releases ‘Iron Man 3’ o matter how much of a scrap heap of metal-twisting mayhem the “Iron Man” franchise piles on (and it’s a lot), Robert Downey’s sheer charm - his Nunsentimental, offhand yammering is the real superpower in Marvel’s trilo- gy. The latest follows not just “Iron Man 2” but the box-office busting “The Avengers.” These global blockbusters are more produced than directed, but it’s nevertheless fitting that Shane Black (“Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” also with Downey) here inherits the helm from Jon Favreau, the director of the previous two. Black, with co-script writer Drew Pearce, squeezes in as much self-aware, winking wise- cracks that give the film some zip. But in a fight between screwball irony and blockbuster bombast, the heavy-metal action unfortunately wins. Downey’s billionaire Tony Stark (Iron Man) is pulled into a battle with the terror- ist Mandarin (a bearded Ben Kingsley), who takes credit for a series of random bombings. Also in the bad guy mix is Aldrich Killian (Guy Pearce), an inventor This publicity photo released by courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics shows Pierce Brosnan as Philip and turned military contractor whom Stark haphazardly jilted back in his partying Trine Dyrholm as Ida in the film, ‘Love Is All You Need.’ —AP years. When helicopter missiles collapse Stark’s Malibu estate into the sea, he’s sep- arated from his companion Pepper Potts (Gwyneth Paltrow) and forced to rebuild himself. The action is mostly cut too quickly to enjoy and the 3-D lends a disap- pointing darkening for what’s been a bright-hued franchise. With Don Cheadle, Actress apologizes for Rebecca Hall, James Badge Dale and an excellent Ty Simpkins as a mop-headed, fatherless boy who helps Stark. PG-13 for sequences of intense sci-fi action and vio- lence throughout, and brief suggestive content. 130 minutes. Two and a half stars ‘crazy’ comments to trooper out of four.-Jake Coyle, AP Entertainment Writer ctress Reese Witherspoon recalls that she panicked and said ‘Love Is All You Need’ “crazy things” the night she was The message behind most romantic comedies is the simple-minded sentiment A arrested in Atlanta on a disorderly con- that love is all you need. So when Danish filmmaker Susanne Bier (“In a Better duct charge. During an interview on World,” “After the Wedding”) takes that title for a departure from somber drama to Good Morning America, Witherspoon romance, you might expect her to deliver it with some serious irony. Yet in Bier’s repeatedly apologized for her behavior tale, it turns out love really is all you need. And like any old rom-com, it’s the just- during the April 19 traffic stop. A police add-water, instant mush variety of love that springs up between the unlikeliest of report states that Witherspoon asked a partners because, hey, you’re in the theater to see a love story. This is several steps Georgia state trooper, “Do you know above the usual Hollywood romance, with nice low-key passion between Pierce my name?” and added, “You’re about Brosnan and Trine Dyrholm as prospective in-laws who connect during chaotic to find out who I am.” preparations for their children’s wedding. In yesterday’s interview, the Oscar- Bier and regular screenwriting partner Anders Thomas Jensen dress things up winning actress said she has “no idea with gorgeous postcard images of Sorrento, Italy, lovely music, elegant production what I was saying that night.” She said design and deeper complications and entanglements than we typically see in a she had “one too many” glasses of screen fling. It’s still standard stuff, though: mostly predictable, mostly gooey and wine, and panicked after she and her mostly unlike anything resembling our own clunky tales of amour. The film is gen- husband were pulled over. tle and good-hearted, but despite a few solemn themes of illness and infidelity, it Witherspoon faces a May 22 court hear- This image released by ABC news shows co-host George never rises above slight and diverting. It’s refreshing to see Bier lighten up, yet dis- ing. Her husband, Hollywood agent Jim appointing she doesn’t find a way to go deeper than the conventional pleasantries Stephanopoulos, left, interviewing actress Reese Toth, was charged with drunken driv- Witherspoon on ‘Good Morning America,’ yesterday in explored here. R for brief sexuality, nudity and some language. 116 minutes. Two ing and is due in court May 23. —AP New York. — AP and a half stars out of four. — AP Lifestyle FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Lock of baby s hair, first toothbreast ... trands from baby’s first haircut. The first fondest memories, and honestly I would get tooth. Tiny footprints sunk into clay. pregnant again to nurse another baby. But it SSome parents even tuck away the dried was the relationship. There’s something about stump of the umbilical cord or the stick preg- plasticizing breast milk, which is just food to nancy test as a touching memento marking nurse your baby, that almost seems like some the milestones of their kids. The latest? Breast sort of weird worship of nursing.” milk jewelry. Few issues polarize mothers Tell that to the 20 or so people who con- more than breast-feeding, and all things relat- tact Allicia Mogavero each day about the ed to breast-feeding, so wearing processed breast milk jewelry she began selling in breast milk around the neck or in a bracelet 2007, then mostly to friends. She put has ignited some passions. her designs on Etsy about a year ago The jewelry, on sale at the handmade mar- and has sold about 200 pieces, includ- ketplace Etsy, is definitely not for writer Ashley ing pendants, bracelets, lockets and McCann, 34, in Naples, Fla. She nursed both beads of breast milk alone for peo- her boys, 6 and 9, and loved it, but she feels ple to do with what they wish. some sort of gross-out She personalizes the jewelry with line has been crossed. names in fancy script. “This is the most In all, she offers 36 items, using a hilariously absurd five-step process to preserve a small trend in mommy amount of milk shipped to her as instructed. Working the milk takes A heart locket about four weeks and the resin needs a week housing or two to dry, she said. Mogavero, 34, in processed Wakefield, R.I., said sales have picked up since since October. “It’s some- breast milk. A necklace with a charm made of breast the jewelry arose on BabyCenter, producing thing that moms do for themselves,” said milk, one of the items jewelry designer dozens of posts that seem evenly split Becker, 33. She has shipped jewelry to the Allicia Mogavero offers on the hand- between admirers and the repulsed. United Kingdom and Asia. “It’s more for moth- made marketplace site Etsy. “A lot of people are repelled by breast- ers who are nursing long term, not people jewelry that I have ever heard about in my feeding in general, as crazy as that is. And I who just nurse a couple of months.” life,” she said. “I think it is just flat-out weird, to “This can be passed down for generations and think anything having to do with it is probably Victoria Cameron, 33, is nursing her 13- be honest.” In addition to finished jewelry, a what a fantastic gift to give to your child, the not anything that they like. It is a body fluid, so month-old son and pursuing a master’s in search on Etsy produces sellers of breast milk root of their survival.” maybe that’s why people are somewhat social work in Minneapolis. She went on Etsy soap and one offering a locket kit for the DIY The passing-down notion prompted more against it,” mused Mogavero, who has shipped in search of mother’s jewelry when she stum- inclined. A couple purveyors, both moms, said than a few jokes on BabyCenter.com when the to the Philippines, England, Australia and bled on the breast milk sellers. She was the in interviews that they hit on the idea as they subject first came up innocently enough in Japan. Mogavero said she has had husbands first to post about it on a BabyCenter board for sought out unusual keepsakes of their special January. A poster on the site, which has an steal breast milk out of the freezer to surprise bargain hunters. The quick-fire reaction sur- bonds with their babies during nursing. The average 11 million unique views a month, said their nursing wives with one of her creations. prised her. “At the same time people were two wouldn’t reveal their recipes for process- she had heard of breast milk jewelry and won- She sells on Etsy as MommyMilk as she contin- talking about getting cremation remains made ing the milk, which is covered with a glaze or dered where she could find some, said ues to nurse her third child, a 16-month-old into a diamond or a rock, and that was, like, clear resin after it is plasticized or dehydrated, Rebecca Michals, who manages the message girl. Brooke Becker in Summerville, SC, offers super meaningful, and then people were just forming a clay-like substance that hardens boards. “It may not be for everyone,” Michals the breast milk kits on Etsy under the user like, ‘Oh this breast milk thing is crazy.’ It was over time when at least one method is used. offers. “I think it’s a matter of opinion.” name MilkMomBaby. “I think initially you tell very odd,” she said. Prices range from $15 for the kit, which Oh yes. Just as attachment parenting some people about it and they say, ‘Oh, that’s The debate has since spread on parenting includes various locket designs, to $125 for a (wearing your child, the family bed) is a matter gross,’” she said. “Breast milk is pretty personal. blogs and social media. In Belleville, NJ, Sharon double pendant in copper bezels with a of opinion, or nursing in public, or those Just sending that off to someone is a little bit Valcarcel, 32, nurses her 11-month-old daugh- matching vintage chain. “What a wonderful breast-feeding baby dolls of the holiday sea- of a leap for people.” ter in the evenings after she returns from her way to preserve the ‘liquid gold’ that we are son last year. “I actually think it’s the attitude That’s why she decided to sell kits, includ- job as a high school psychologist. She heard only able to make for a certain period of time,” behind it,” McCann said as she tried to explain ing discreet lockets and a pill box design as about the jewelry from a friend and thought it reads the product description for the latter. her disdain. Nursing, she said, “is one of my vessels. She said she has sold about 48 kits was “kind of gross.” —AP Inter-Korean marriage agent takes on a niche market hese should be tough times for North-South the end of the Korean War, the two Koreas remain tech- Korean matchmaking, but Hong Seung-Soo says nically at war and cross-border contact between ordinary Tthe search for the right husband or wife out- people in the South and North is essentially non-exis- trumps all other considerations-even threats of nuclear tent. Permanent low-level tensions between the two war. “None of my clients really care about the threats, or countries frequently escalate to dangerously high levels. the political situation between the two Koreas. The most The current crisis, which grew out of the North’s nuclear pressing issue in their lives is getting married,” Hong test in February, has been marked by angry warnings on says. Korean culture has a long, established tradition of both sides, with the North’s bellicose rhetoric including marriage broking, stretching from traditional neighbor- threats of a pre-emptive nuclear strike. hood matchmakers to dedicated internet sites. But Hong’s business keeps ticking over regardless. Few are involved in the specialized market that “No matter what the North says, I just focus on my job, Hong’s agency caters for. When the newly-divorced which is finding love for these men and women,” he said. Hong re-entered the Seoul dating scene in 2006, he end- In reality, the marriages Hong helps broker are probably ed up meeting and-much to his surprise-eventually mar- more founded in pragmatism than romance-on both rying a North Korean defector. “We met at a date sides. Since the end of the Korean War in 1953, some File photo shows Hong Seung-Woo posing with arranged by a mutual friend, and I remember thinking, 25,000 North Koreans have escaped home-most after a his wife who defected from North Korea during a what if she was a communist spy?” Hong told AFP. It deadly famine in the mid-90s-and settled in the South. trip to Manripo beach in Taean county. —AFP turned out she wasn’t and, seven year later, Hong is not About 70 percent are women: a gender discrepancy only still happily married but has helped to match attributed to stricter controls on the activities of North mend marrying another defector if you really want to around 400 South Korean men with brides from the Korean men that make it harder for them to flee. start a brand new life in the South,” said Choi Hae-In, North. Life in the modern, capitalist, hyper-competitive who fled Pyongyang in 2009 and married a South Korean He started off arranging dates between men he knew South can be extremely tough for such women, who man a year later. “You can learn things a lot faster and and defector friends of his wife, before setting himself up generally lack marketable skills and are widely discrimi- adapt to the new world faster by marrying a southerner,” as a professional matchmaker. Inter-Korean marriage is nated against. With assimilation such a challenge, many Choi said, adding most of her defector friends had ended about as niche as niche markets can get. Sixty years after look to marriage as a way forward. “I wouldn’t recom- up with South Korean husbands. —AFP Lifestyle FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

The 16.5-metre-tall inflatable Rubber Duck art installation is seen at the Victoria Harbour in Hong Kong yesterday. —AFP photos

Top of the bill: Giant rubber duck sails into Hong Kong

n inflatable bright yellow rubber duck six storeys high has a message for peace but for me it’s just fun,” she said. sailed into Hong Kong harbor yesterday to the cheers Hofman said he hopes the duck, which will stay till June 9, will Aof hundreds of people who gathered to watch the clas- act as a “catalyst” for connecting people to public art. sic bath time-inspired artistic creation. The 16.5-metre-tall “It’s about connecting people... don’t take life for granted, (54-feet) artwork, conceived by Dutch artist Florentijn your urban space for granted. You walk every day the same Hofman, dwarfed other craft as it was towed past the city’s route to work, but look and stop going too fast,” he said. The iconic skyline by a tugboat a fraction of its size. Since 2007 the duck has already proved a welcome distraction from the duck has travelled to 13 different cities in nine countries rang- everyday routine of city life, with office workers pressing up ing from Brazil to Australia in its journey around the world. against skyscraper windows to take pictures. Twitter and Peggy Shieh, 28, made a special trip from Taiwan to see Facebook feeds hailed its arrival, brightening the gloomy the duck after she learned about it on Facebook. “It takes me weather. back to my childhood memories,” she said. People began “So there’s a duck in HK harbour...a really really big duck!”, queuing from as early as 6 am for a chance to buy a miniature said Twitter user JasonGirard. The southern Chinese city is replica. Kathy Cheung, who was second in line, took half a day also exhibiting a land-based collection of inflatable art, off work to ensure she got her piece of art history. “I think it’s Dancers perform during a welcoming ceremony of a giant including a larger-than-life upside-down cockroach, close to the first and last time I will see a rubber duck in Hong Kong. It Rubber Duck. where the rubber duck is moored — AFP

A giant Rubber Duck created by Dutch artist Florentijn Hofman is towed along Hong Visitors attend a welcoming ceremony of a giant Rubber Duck. Kong’s Victoria Habour. FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 opposite to Al Rashed 2000, price KD 700/-. Contact: Hospital. Contact: 66232356. 99017342. ACCOMMODATION (C 4402) (C 4395) 2-5-2013 Sharing accommodation Al-Madena 22418714 available for decent single Al-Shohada’a 22545171 person (male/female) with a CHANGE OF NAME MATRIMONIAL Al-Shuwaikh 24810598 separate room with attached Basheer, Roman Catholic girl, 112 Al-Nuzha 22545171 bath in Amman Street near I, Kamalapuram 27 year roundabout. Please call 5 pm Indian Passport No: 158cms, BSN MOH invites K9684632 change my name proposals for a suitable Sabhan 24742838 to 10 pm 66321532. (C 4399) to Shaikh Basheer Ahmed. groom - Male nurses Automated Al-Helaly 22434853 1-5-2013 (C 4398) expetional. Email: enquiry about the Al-Fayhaa 22545051 [email protected] Sharing accommodation Al-Farwaniya 24711433 (C 4400) Civil ID card is available for decent bachelor FOR SALE Al-Sulaibikhat 24316983 or family non smoking, 2-5-2013 Al-Fahaheel 23927002 Amman street, one big room, For sale car Corolla model 1889988 Jleeb Al-Shuyoukh 24316983 Ahmadi 23980088 Al-Mangaf 23711183 Kuwait Al-Shuaiba 23262845 KNCC PROGRAMME FROM THURSDAY TO WEDNESDAY Al-Jahra 25610011 (02/05/2013 TO 08/05/2013) Al-Salmiya 25616368

SHARQIA-1 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 3:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 5:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:45 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 7:30 PM Hospitals NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 2:45 PM 5:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 10:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 4:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 7:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:30 AM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 6:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 9:00 PM NO SUN+ TUE+WED Sabah Hospital 24812000 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 8:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 11:00 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 10:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:45 AM AL-KOUT.2 Amiri Hospital 22450005 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:30 AM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:45 PM MARINA-2 THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) Maternity Hospital 24843100 SHARQIA-2 THE CALL (DIG) 1:45 PM 2:45 PM TAD, THE LOST EXPLORER (DIG-3D) 12:30 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 3:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 4:45 PM Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 2:30 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 6:15 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) SPIDERS (DIG-3D) 5:00 PM THE CALL (DIG) 8:15 PM 6:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 7:00 PM THE CALL (DIG) 10:15 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 8:30 PM Chest Hospital 24849400 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 9:30 PM THE CALL (DIG) 12:15 AM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:05 AM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 10:15 PM Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:15 AM MARINA-3 NO SUN+ TUE+WED SHARQIA-3 TAD, THE LOST EXPLORER (DIG-3D) 2:00 PM Adan Hospital 23940620 OBLIVION (DIG) 1:45 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 4:00 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 4:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 6:30 PM AL-KOUT.3 Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 THE CALL (DIG) 6:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 9:00 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 1:45 PM THE CALL (DIG) 8:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 11:45 PM THE CALL (DIG) 4:15 PM Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 THE CALL (DIG) 10:15 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 6:15 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 12:15 AM AVENUES-1 THE CALL (DIG) 8:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 1:15 PM Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 THE CALL (DIG) 10:45 PM MUHALAB-1 WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 3:30 PM THE CALL (DIG) 12:45 AM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 5:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 2:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 8:00 PM BAIRAQ-1 Clinics WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 4:30 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 10:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 1:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 6:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 12:30 AM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 4:00 PM Rabiya 24732263 WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 8:45 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 6:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 10:45 PM AVENUES-2 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 9:15 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 12:45 PM Rawdha 22517733 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:05 AM MUHALAB-2 OBLIVION (DIG) 3:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 2:00 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 5:45 PM Adailiya 22517144 OBLIVION (DIG) 4:00 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) BAIRAQ-2 GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 4:00 PM 8:15 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 12:45 PM Khaldiya 24848075 THE CALL (DIG) 7:00 PM OBLIVION (DIG) 10:30 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) THE CALL (DIG) 9:00 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) 3:00 PM Khaifan 24849807 THE CALL (DIG) 11:00 PM 1:15 AM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 5:15 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 7:30 PM Shamiya 24848913 MUHALAB-3 AVENUES-3 WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 9:30 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 12:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 2:15 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 11:30 PM Shuwaikh 24814507 TAD, THE LOST EXPLORER (DIG-3D) 3:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 4:15 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 5:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 6:15 PM BAIRAQ-3 Abdullah Salim 22549134 IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 7:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 8:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 1:45 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG-3D) 10:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 10:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 3:45 PM Al-Nuzha 22526804 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:15 AM OBLIVION (DIG) 5:45 PM FANAR-1 THE CALL (DIG) 8:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 1:30 PM 360º 1 THE CALL (DIG) 10:30 PM Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 OBLIVION (DIG) 3:30 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 1:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 6:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 3:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 12:30 AM Al-Qadisiya 22515088 THE CALL (DIG) 8:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 5:15 PM THE CALL (DIG) 10:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 7:15 PM PLAZA Dasmah 22532265 OBLIVION (DIG) 12:05 AM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 9:15 PM SHADOW (DIG) (TELUGU) 7:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 11:15 PM SHADOW (DIG) (TELUGU) 10:00 PM Bneid Al-Ghar 22531908 FANAR-2 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 1:15 AM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 4:00 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 12:45 PM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 7:00 PM Al-Shaab 22518752 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 2:30 PM 360º 2 NO THU THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 4:15 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 2:30 PM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 10:00 PM Al-Kibla 22459381 NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 6:15 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 4:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 8:00 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 7:00 PM LAILA NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 9:45 PM FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 9:15 PM Ayoun Al-Kibla 22451082 IRON MAN 3 (DIG) 5:45 PM THE HAUNTING IN CONNECTICUT 2 (DIG) FIRE WITH FIRE (DIG) 11:30 PM NO MON+TUE+WED 11:45 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG) 8:15 PM Mirqab 22456536 360º 3 NO MON+TUE+WED FANAR-3 EMPEROR (DIG) 1:00 PM IRON MAN 3 (DIG) 10:45 PM THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (DIG) 2:00 PM EMPEROR (DIG) 3:15 PM Sharq 22465401 NO MON+TUE+WED WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 4:30 PM EMPEROR (DIG) 5:30 PM Salmiya 25746401 WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 6:30 PM EMPEROR (DIG) 7:45 PM WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 8:30 PM EMPEROR (DIG) 10:00 PM AJIAL.1 SHADOW (DIG) (TELUGU) 6:45 PM Jabriya 25316254 WINTER OF DISCONTENT (DIG) 10:30 PM EMPEROR (DIG) 12:15 AM THE COMPANY YOU KEEP (DIG) 12:30 AM SHADOW (DIG) (TELUGU) 9:45 PM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 3:45 PM Maidan Hawally 25623444 AL-KOUT.1 MARINA-1 TAD, THE LOST EXPLORER (DIG-3D) 1:00 PM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 6:45 PM NO TELL MOTEL (DIG) 1:30 PM SPIDERS (DIG-3D) 3:00 PM GREEKU VEERUDU (DIG) (TELUGU) 9:45 PM Bayan 25388462 39 Pets FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 No pet rule brings out the fangs The dogfight between South Florida pet owners, condo associations

teve Vincent lives in a pet-free condo in SMiami Beach. Fla. The bylaws clearly say so. No one who purchases a unit there can credibly claim otherwise. And yet the Bay Garden Manor Condominium on West Avenue has its share of dogs. A loophole the size of an English sheepdog allows condo owners to keep pets, regardless of the association rules, if they can get them classified as “emotional support animals.” It can be as simple as convincing a physician, a psychiatrist, a social worker or men- tal health professional to sign a letter saying the animal provides needed emotional support. “It’s almost an epidemic here at the Beach,” said George Zamora, a property manager for Regatta Real Estate Management, a company that manages 93 condominium associations in Miami-Dade County. Pet-friendly websites also sell emotional support credentials of some- times dubious value. “It’s highly suspect when people start asking whether or not they can have a pet,” Zamora said, “and all of a sudden, they show up and say they need emotional support. If you legitimately have an issue, you don’t ask.” Marcela Alvarez, 45, lived in Bay Garden Manor for 14 years with her husband until they divorced in 2012. Unaccustomed to living by herself, she felt emotionally isolated. Her chiro- practor suggested she get a pet, so she got Marcela Alvarez lives in a high-rise condominium on Miami Beach, with her Jack Russell terrier, Pelusa, who is considered Pelusa, now a 1-year-old Jack Russell. But she an emotional support animal. —MCT photos needed the letter, so she went to the Miami Beach Community Health Center and talked to ally find out that they are not disabled at all,” Dr. Marco Fiore, an endocrinologist. Hartstein said of those who come to him. “When she told me that story, I told her she “Eight out of 10 times, it comes down to could see a psychologist, but she said, ‘No, all I someone looking just to buy pets to live in need is a letter,’”. said Fiore. “I thought, ‘Oh why these buildings with no-pet rules or just to not? If you think that’s important to you, then bring in the airplanes inappropriately. Of that’s fine with me.’ I grew up with dogs, so for course we don’t serve these clients,” Hartstein me it was just common sense.” Alvarez walked said. Dog trainer Rose Lesniak has seen the out the clinic with a letter saying, “She may same thing play out. She constantly receives benefit to have a dog for companionship.” That calls, and said she can tell right away if a per- was enough for her to bring Pelusa into the son doesn’t have a real emotional need. building. “They have no clue what they are doing,” The loosy-goosy implementation of the she said. “All they want is a letter from me say- rules is no small deal to Vincent. The 49-year- ing their dog is certified and I tell them that’s old recently had a kidney transplant and has not the way it works.” When pet-owners can’t been told that avoiding fur is a medical impera- find help with trainers or doctors, the next step tive. “You come in the elevator and they let is sometimes online. Eager to fill in the void are your dog sniff you up,” he said. Paul J. Milberg, websites like freemypaws.com, registermyser- an attorney for Katzman Garfinkel & Berger, viceanimal.com and nsarco.com. They sell serv- said, “It’s so easy now that everyone is hearing ice animal ID cards, certification cards, tags and about it. I have board directors calling me all patches for less for than $100. The buyer needs the time. There are people who dislike animals only to check the boxes confirming they have a and move to a no-pet community, and now, all condition and their animal is trained. of a sudden here is this person with a dog out An organization called Citizens for Pets in of the blue.” Condos is lobbying for a bill that would allow a He recently conducted a seminar about how community to change its bylaws if 51 percent to deal with the requests for emotional support of unit owners voted to allow pets. Currently a animals during the South Florida Condo & HOA three-quarters vote is needed. Maida Genser, Expo. About 50 property managers attended 70, founder and president of the group, has his lecture. He explained what type of questions two cats, Priya and Spike, that help her go to they can ask, what documentation are needed sleep. She could not imagine living without to verify legitimacy and what methods they can them. take to protect themselves if they have to grant “Emotional support animals provide the an accommodation. Emotional support dogs support just by being there,” she said. “If you are not to be confused with service dogs, such hold a purring cat, or pet a dog, or watch as seeing-eye canines. The former are covered your dog rolling over, wagging his tale, that by the Fair Housing Act, while the latter are pro- can help someone emotionally. “There’s no tected under the Americans with Disabilities way your pet in your apartment is going to Act. bother somebody else,” Genser said. Tell that Russell Hartstein is the owner of Fun Paw to Steve Vincent, the kidney transplant Care, a company that trains emotional support patient who finds it increasingly more diffi- animals as well as service dogs. Every week, he cult to stay clear of animal fur. “I’m all for Chris Stein, 47, of Coral Gables, who has cerebral palsy, is accompanied every- receives calls from people asking him to train everybody being happy and living a healthy their dogs or provide some type of certifica- where by Morgan, his 13-year-old service dog, including this Starbucks on Lincoln life,” he said, “but you can’t do that at other Road Mall in Miami Beach. tion. “When I start digging a little deeper, I usu- people’s expense.” —MCT Stars FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

COUNTRY CODES Aries (March 21-April 19) Libra (September 23-October 22) Mixed emotions may be the flavor of the day, and try- Afghanistan 0093 Kuwait 00965 ing to sort them out verbally can be a confusing and ultimately You may want a break from the predictability of your usual Albania 00355 Kyrgyzstan 00996 unsatisfying process. Half an explanation is better than exhausting routine and methods. You’re in the mood to experiment and to learn Algeria 00213 Laos 00856 something new. Offbeat or original ideas excite you and you will seek Andorra 00376 Latvia 00371 dissection of raw nerves, so patch things up as best you can and let people who can offer you a different way of looking at things. Discovery, Angola 00244 Lebanon 00961 circumstances take care of the rest. Issues now are your home, per- inventiveness, and spontaneity are major themes now. You feel tender Anguilla 001264 Liberia 00231 sonal life, and closest emotional relationships. You feel more quiet and gentle toward others, and you want to please or to be of service to Antiga 001268 Libya 00218 and reflective, and you feel a need to be closer to home and to them in some way. Some selfless generosity or an effort on behalf of Argentina 0054 Lithuania 00370 loved ones. You can draw a lot of strength and satisfaction from someone in need will make you feel very happy now. You may just enjoy Armenia 00374 Luxembourg 00352 your family and loved ones now. You are more emotional and a good movie or book or feel like escaping from the days realities for a Australia 0061 Macau 00853 introspective than usual. while with a romantic interest. You can appreciate an imaginative Austria 0043 Macedonia 00389 approach and may value communal or futuristic ideas. Bahamas 001242 Madagascar 00261 Bahrain 00973 Majorca 0034 Bangladesh 00880 Malawi 00265 Barbados 001246 Malaysia 0060 Belarus 00375 Maldives 00960 Taurus (April 20-May 20) Belgium 0032 Mali 00223 Scorpio (October 23-November 21) Belize 00501 Malta 00356 You don’t want to follow anybody else’s lead at this Benin 00229 Marshall Islands 00692 Your friendly concern for others and your willingness to Bermuda 001441 Martinique 00596 time, but fortunately you are able find ways to be yourself and Bhutan 00975 Mauritania 00222 even be a little “crazy” without offending or upsetting others. This meet people half way benefits your career, reputation, or public image at this time. This is a favorable time to socialize with people Bolivia 00591 Mauritius 00230 is a dynamic and exciting period. Take advantage of any unusual Bosnia 00387 Mayotte 00269 offers or opportunities. The emotional energies are a bit on the you have professional ties with, as the positive feelings you generate now are likely to be an aid to you in the future. Emotional intensity is Botswana 00267 Mexico 0052 cool side today and if you encounter the cold shoulder, don’t be Brazil 0055 Micronesia 00691 surprised. Take a tentative step in the direction you want to test it very appealing to you now. Relationships can deepen and grow as Brunei 00673 Moldova 00373 out before you take a big leap and end up way over your head in a well as penetrate to a very personal level. This process is sometimes Bulgaria 00359 Monaco 00377 long fall. People taking themselves too seriously could also inter- initiated by you and sometimes initiated by the other person, but in Burkina 00226 Mongolia 00976 either case it leads to a much deeper understanding and bond fere with your goals, so try not to be one of them. Burundi 00257 Montserrat 001664 between you. Cambodia 00855 Morocco 00212 Cameroon 00237 Mozambique 00258 Canada 001 Myanmar (Burma) 0095 Cape Verde 00238 Namibia 00264 Cayman Islands 001345 Nepal 00977 Gemini (May 21-June 20) Central African Republic 00236 Netherlands (Holland)0031 Sagittarius (November 22-December 21) Chad 00235 Netherlands Antilles 00599 Chile 0056 New Caledonia 00687 Within reason, do what you have to do to get the You have a special magnetism and attractive power now, and China 0086 New Zealand 0064 recognition and rewards you deserve regarding a work situation. A you are feeling intensely loving also. Your relationships, particularly sexual or Colombia 0057 Nicaragua 00505 family issue is finally smoothed over, thanks to a younger family romantic ones, intensify and have a deep, compelling, urgent quality. Your Comoros 00269 Nigar 00227 member. A household addition is very welcome and something inner feelings and needs for love and closeness emerge very strongly. You Congo 00242 Nigeria 00234 you will appreciate for a long time to come. There are opportuni- may also channel some of these feelings into creative or artistic, work, some- Cook Islands 00682 Niue 00683 ties for deep sharing, and powerful, meaningful contacts with oth- thing that evokes and expresses your deepest self. You could be powerfully Costa Rica 00506 Norfolk Island 00672 ers, especially someone who shares common goals or ideals. Take attracted, emotionally and sexually, to someone you encounter at this time, Croatia 00385 Northern Ireland (UK)0044 the time today to have some deep discussion about what you and any romantic involvements you currently have are intensified. Expect fire- Cuba 0053 North Korea 00850 want from a relationship. works! Also, your relationships can become tempestuous, especially if your Cyprus 00357 Norway 0047 Cyprus (Northern) 0090392 Oman 00968 partner is not as responsive or amorous as you would like. Time to express Czech Republic 00420 Pakistan 0092 yourself, but don’t be harsh about it. Denmark 0045 Palau 00680 Diego Garcia 00246 Panama 00507 Djibouti 00253 Papua New Guinea 00675 Dominica 001767 Paraguay 00595 Dominican Republic 001809 Peru 0051 Cancer (June 21-July 22) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) Ecuador 00593 Philippines 0063 Egypt 0020 Poland 0048 Money may be a problem for you at this time. You can You are in a positive state of mind today, filled with opti- El Salvador 00503 Portugal 00351 trade your way out of a difficulty or borrow money. The latter is not mism and a hopeful outlook. Your inspirational attitude is likely to England (UK) 0044 Puerto Rico 001787 advisable right now as you’ll be tempted to clock up those debts, add draw admiration from others and increase your chances for social Equatorial Guinea 00240 Qatar 00974 more zeros to your credit card and ultimately find yourself cornered contacts, business advancement, or a new romance. Take advantage Eritrea 00291 Romania 0040 by your inability to meet those repayments. Think about strategies for of all opportunities and channel them into constructive possibilities. It Estonia 00372 Russian Federation 007 increasing your income and working your way out of this yourself is easy for you to talk about your feelings now, and also to listen sen- Ethiopia 00251 Rwanda 00250 without borrowing any more. new romance or a revitalization of a sitively to not only what others are saying but also what they are feel- Falkland Islands 00500 Saint Helena 00290 current one is very likely about this time. The unexpected pleasures of ing. This is an excellent time to discuss your feelings and clear the air Faroe Islands 00298 Saint Kitts 001869 new friends, or a adventurous attitude in your relationships make this on any grievances you may be holding on to from the past. Your Fiji 00679 Saint Lucia 001758 communication with your partner is especially good at this time. Finland 00358 Saint Pierre 00508 time period stimulating. You want a break from your usual routine France 0033 Saint Vincent 001784 and in doing so could experience a refreshing change of pace. French Guiana 00594 Samoa US 00684 French Polynesia 00689 Samoa West 00685 Gabon 00241 San Marino 00378 Gambia 00220 Sao Tone 00239 Aquarius (January 20- February 18) Georgia 00995 Saudi Arabia 00966 Leo (July 23-August 22) Germany 0049 Scotland (UK) 0044 Ghana 00233 Senegal 00221 Don’t let yourself be coerced or victimized by people You feel inclined to speak to others about your innermost feelings, your past, and other personal subjects, which builds closeness Gibraltar 00350 Seychelles 00284 who want to harass you. You might encounter someone who is act- and trust in your relationships, especially with women. You are also a Greece 0030 Sierra Leone 00232 ing more like a salesperson rather than a friend and trying to get you sympathetic listener, drawing out others’ feelings and personal experi- Greenland 00299 Singapore 0065 to think their way or act along their lines of misbehavior. Hold your ences. You may hear from someone from the past or reach out to some- Grenada 001473 Slovakia 00421 ground and you’ll feel better for it. Warning signals are in the air one you have a long history with or who was once very important in your Guadeloupe 00590 Slovenia 00386 today, and trying to get the final word on anything will be virtually Guam 001671 Solomon Islands 00677 life. Right now you may say the things you usually only think because you Guatemala 00502 Somalia 00252 impossible, and no matter how right you feel in your side of an argu- speak your mind without much thought, tact, or consideration of conse- ment any loose ends turn up that won’t be silenced. Try to keep your Guinea 00224 South Africa 0027 quences., especially to people you disagree with. Unless you slow down a Guyana 00592 South Korea 0082 words positive, but leave the last word for later. bit, this time period can be quite a headache and cause problems that last Haiti 00509 Spain 0034 beyond the day. Verbal battles, disputes, and heated debates are very Holland (Netherlands)0031 Sri Lanka 0094 likely at this time. Honduras 00504 Sudan 00249 Hong Kong 00852 Suriname 00597 Hungary 0036 Swaziland 00268 Ibiza (Spain) 0034 Sweden 0046 Iceland 00354 Switzerland 0041 Virgo (August 23-September 22) Pisces (February 19-March 20) India 0091 Syria 00963 Indian Ocean 00873 Taiwan 00886 This is a time to take in information which can be of real You do not feel very sharp, competitive, or aggressive at Indonesia 0062 Tanzania 00255 practical assistance to you in reaching a significant long-range goal. this time. Feelings of relaxation, receptivity, passivity, or aimlessness Iran 0098 Thailand 0066 Some news may reach you which will create some minor distress and are likely and you tend to avoid stressful confrontations or situations Iraq 00964 Toga 00228 compel you to re-examine or reassess a position you have taken that demand too much of you. Goals and desires that normally seem Ireland 00353 Tonga 00676 regarding your career or work in the world. Don’t try to force issues or so important - especially ones in which you are pushing your own Italy 0039 Tokelau 00690 come to any definite conclusions now and don’t sign any contracts. If interests - do not matter quite as much now. Your enthusiasm and Ivory Coast 00225 Trinidad 001868 you are involved in a love relationship then a deepening of the rela- Jamaica 001876 Tunisia 00216 inner drive for living are very high now. This is a positive time when Japan 0081 Turkey 0090 tionship is likely at this time. You gain an even greater appreciation of you express your feelings openly, you feel alive and interested in the Jordan 00962 Tuvalu 00688 each other, and you respect each other more than ever. Mutual world about you, and your love relationships are exciting and harmo- Kazakhstan 007 Uganda 00256 understandings and cooperation on issues of importance make you nious. Kenya 00254 Ukraine 00380 feel very close and even more loving. Kiribati 00686 United Arab Emirates00976 Stars FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Word Search 6. Enjoying or affording comforting warmth and shelter especially in a small space. 7. Standard time in the 6th time zone west of Greenwich, reckoned at the 90th CROSSWORD178 meridian. 8. A benevolent aspect of Devi. 9. Distance measured in miles. 10. A narrative song with a recurrent refrain. 11. The Oceanic language spoken by the Maori people in New Zealand. 12. Small terrestrial lizard of warm regions of the Old World. 13. An elaborate party (often outdoors). 14. A condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders. 19. A capacitance unit equal to one billion farads. 23. A small pellet fired from an air rifle or BB gun. 25. The eleventh month of the civil year. 27. The seventh month of the Moslem calendar. 30. Pertaining to or resembling amoebae. 31. Prolific Flemish baroque painter. 32. A tax on employees and employers that is used to fund the Social Security sys- tem. 33. Remove from the bar. 34. Any of several plants of the genus Manihot having fleshy roots yielding a nutri- tious starch. 35. Either of a pair of thick-walled tubes that carry urine from the kidney to the uri- nary bladder. 39. Singing jazz. 40. A member of an American Indian peoples of NE South America and the Lesser Antilles. 43. The inner and thicker of the two bones of the human leg between the knee and ankle. 46. An intensely radioactive metallic element that occurs in minute amounts in ura- nium ores. 47. A white metallic element that burns with a brilliant light. 49. The form of theological rationalism that believes in God on the basis of reason without reference to revelation. 51. Softly bright or radiant. ACROSS 53. Medium-sized tree-dwelling monkey of the Amazon basin. 1. The bill in a restaurant. 54. (geology) Deposited or arranged in horizontal layers. 4. Consent reluctantly. 11. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad. 55. The organ of sight (`peeper' is an informal term for `eye'). 15. Title for a civil or military leader (especially in Turkey). 58. Owing or owed feudal allegiance and service. 16. Absence of the sense of smell (as by damage to olfactory nasal tissue or the 60. The branch of computer science that deal with writing computer programs that olfactory nerve or by obstruction of the nasal passages). can solve problems creatively. 17. Advanced in years. 61. An ugly evil-looking old woman. 18. Hungarian choreographer who developed Labanotation (1879-1958). 63. United States tennis player who was the first Black to win United States and 20. A compartment in a stable where a single animal is confined and fed. English singles championships (1943-1993). 21. Profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger. 64. A boy or man. 22. A person who lacks confidence, is irresolute and wishy-washy. 66. A island in the Netherlands Antilles that is the top of an extinct volcano. 24. Experiencing a sudden sense of danger. 67. Very dark black. 26. Extremely pleasing. 68. A Chadic language spoken south of Lake Chad. 28. Type genus of the Gavidae. 70. Electrical conduction through a gas in an applied electric field. 29. A village in eastern Ireland (northwest of Dublin). 71. An independent agency of the United States government responsible for col- 36. An Asian river between China and Russia. lecting and coordinating intelligence and counterintelligence activities abroad in 37. An independent state within the British Commonwealth located on the Fiji the national interest. Islands. 75. A soft yellow malleable ductile (trivalent and univalent) metallic element. 38. An annual award by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences for 76. A brittle gray crystalline element that is a semiconducting metalloid (resembling achievements in motion picture production and performance. silicon) used in transistors. 41. Cubes of meat marinated and cooked on a skewer usually with vegetables. 42. (of molten metal or glass) Formed by pouring or pressing into a mold n 1. 44. (law) A comprehensive term for any proceeding in a court of law whereby an Yesterdayʼs Solution individual seeks a legal remedy. 45. In bed. 48. Imperial dynasty that ruled China (most of the time) from 206 BC to 221 and expanded its boundaries and developed its bureaucracy. Yesterdayʼs Solution 50. (linguistics) Relating to the ablative case. 52. Issue or terminate (in a specified way, state, etc.). 56. A room or establishment where alcoholic drinks are served over a counter. 57. United States choreographer noted for his use of African elements (born in 1931). 59. A woman hired to suckle a child of someone else. 62. The side of an object that is opposite its front. 65. Favoring one person or side over another. 69. Used of persons. 72. An amino acid that is found in the central nervous system. 73. A human female who does housework. 74. Wheelwork consisting of a connected set of rotating gears by which force is transmitted or motion or torque is changed. 77. A former monetary unit in Great Britain. 78. A cap with a flat circular top and a visor. 79. Give an education to. 80. (Irish) Mother of the ancient Irish gods.

DOWN 1. A fine grained mineral having a soft soapy feel and consisting of hydrated magne- sium silicate. 2. Any culture medium that uses agar as the gelling agent. 3. Being or befitting or characteristic of an infant. 4. The capital and largest city of Yemen. 5. An organization of independent states to promote international peace and secu- rity.

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

Nationals blank Braves Red Sox rout Blue Jays

ATLANTA: Jordan Zimmermann turned in TORONTO: Clay Buchholz pitched seven shutout innings to earn another dominant performance, allowing his major league-leading sixth win and Mike Napoli hit two of two hits over eight innings, and Ian Boston’s five home runs as the Red Sox routed the Toronto Blue Desmond hit a two-run homer in the fourth Jays 10-1 on Wednesday. Stephen Drew hit a two-run shot in the as the Washington Nationals finally beat the second inning and Napoli went back-to-back with Daniel Nava in Atlanta Braves, 2-0 Wednesday. the fourth as the Red Sox won their majors-best 19th game. The Braves had won five in a row this sea- Napoli hit a solo shot in the fourth, followed that with a three- son over their NL East rival, and nine straight run shot in the seventh and also doubled in the ninth. He now has six homers and leads the majors with 21 extra-base hits. Buchholz dating to last season. Zimmermann (5-1) (6-0) allowed two hits, walked three and struck out eight, improv- made sure that streak ended with another ing to 7-0 in his past eight starts at Toronto. The right-hander low- dominating performance, snapping a three- ered his ERA to an AL-best 1.01. game losing streak that had knocked the Blue Jays left-hander Mark Buehrle (1-2) surrendered three Nationals under .500. home runs for the second straight start and has allowed nine Atlanta starter Paul Maholm (3-3) nearly home runs in six starts this season for the Blue Jays, who have lost matched Zimmermann. He allowed only seven of their last nine games. Buehrle gave up five runs and sev- three hits in eight innings, retiring the last 13 en hits in 6 2-3 innings. batters he faced. WHITE SOX 5, RANGERS 2 But Desmond provided all the runs that In Arlington, Conor Gillaspie and Alejandro De Aza homered in Washington needed, homering to left-center the seventh inning and Chicago ended a three-game losing streak on a 1-1 pitch in the fourth after Bryce with a win over Texas. Chris Sale (3-2) settled down after a rough Harper led off with a walk. second inning to make it through seven. The left-hander struck out seven and walked two. Texas managed only two runs in the PIRATES 6, BREWERS 4 second despite a homer, three singles and a walk. Sale then faced In Milwaukee, Starling Marte hit a tying only one batter over the minimum 15 the next five innings. two-run homer in the eighth inning and Gillaspie’s homer leading off the seventh against rookie Nick Brandon Inge had a go-ahead RBI single to Tepesch (2-2) broke a 2-all tie. Tyler Flowers snapped an 0-for-17 rally Pittsburgh to a victory over Milwaukee, slide with a single before De Aza’s fifth homer of the season. snapping the Pirates’ nine-game losing ANGELS 5, ATHLETICS 4 streak against the Brewers. In Oakland, Mark Trumbo went deep for the third consecutive Pedro Alvarez added a run-scoring single day, and Howie Kendrick and Mike Trout also homered as Los to cap a four-run eighth as Pittsburgh won Angeles beat Oakland to end a four-game losing streak. for the 10th time in its last 15 games and CJ Wilson (3-0) remained undefeated despite a season-high ended Milwaukee’s eight-game home win- five walks. He allowed two runs on six hits in 6 1-3 innings. Wilson ning streak. Bryan Morris (1-1) got the last struck out five and stranded six runners in scoring position. Josh two outs of the seventh for his first career ATLANTA: Jordan Zimmermann No. 27 of the Washington Nationals pitches in Donaldson, Nate Freiman and Luke Montz each had an RBI double victory. Mark Melancon pitched the eighth the fifth inning to the Atlanta Braves at Turner Field. — AFP for the A’s, who had a three-game winning streak snapped. Adam and Jason Grilli the ninth for his 11th save. Rosales also drove in a run. Tommy Milone (3-3) gave up four runs John Axford (0-3) gave up all four runs while lasted four innings and gave up five runs, against Arizona to 27 innings in the ninth for four earned. his 11th save. Chad Pennington homered and on seven hits over seven innings. He did not walk a batter and getting just two outs in the eighth for the matched his career high with 10 strikeouts. Milone has lost three matched a career-high with four RBIs for the Brewers. consecutive starts. GIANTS 9, DIAMONDBACKS 6 Diamondbacks. YANKEES 5, ASTROS 4 In Phoenix, Brandon Belt hit a three-run CARDINALS 4, REDS 2 In New York, Robinson Cano homered and Eduardo Nunez homer in the eighth inning and the San ROCKIES 7, DODGERS 3 In St. Louis, Lance Lynn won his 10th scored the tiebreaking run after a sixth-inning double to send Francisco Giants rallied against Arizona’s In Los Angeles, Troy Tulowitzki and Carlos straight decision, allowing one run and five New York past Houston. Ben Francisco hit his first home run for bullpen for the third straight game, beating Gonzalez each hit two-run doubles, and center hits in seven innings to lead the Cardinals New York and three relievers supplied spotless work after fill-in the Diamondbacks to complete a three-game fielder Dexter Fowler robbed Adrian Gonzalez over the Reds. Lynn (5-0) struck out five and starter David Phelps wasted a four-run lead. sweep. Belt hit a two-run single off Brad of what would have been his second home walked two, improving to 10-0 in 10 starts With the score tied 4-all, Nunez doubled down the left-field Ziegler in the opener and Pablo Sandoval hit a run of the game, leading the Rockies to a victo- and one relief appearing since losing to line against Paul Clemens (1-1) to begin the sixth. Nunez Milwaukee on Sept. 7. two-run homer off Arizona closer J.J. Putz on ry over the Dodgers. advanced on a wild pitch and, with one out and runners at the It’s the second straight quick start for Tuesday. Belt finished off the series of come- Reliever Josh Outman (1-0) got credit for corners, Wesley Wright was brought in to face Ichiro Suzuki, who Lynn, who was 6-0 with a 1.48 ERA through backs with his homer off David Hernandez (1- the victory in the rubber game of the series, put the Yankees ahead with a groundout. Boone Logan (2-1) got May 7 last season, then went 12-7 with a 4.46 2), giving San Francisco its first road sweep allowing one hit over two scoreless innings. the win and Mariano Rivera closed for his 11th consecutive save. ERA the rest of the way. over the Diamondbacks since July 22-25, 2010. Josh Beckett (0-4) gave up five runs and WHITE SOX 5, RANGERS 2 Angel Pagan led off the game with a five hits in four innings before he was lifted for In Arlington, Conor Gillaspie and Alejandro De Aza homered in METS 7, MARLINS 6 homer, Hunter Pence added a 460-foot solo a pinch-hitter. It’s the first time in Beckett’s 13- the seventh inning and Chicago ended a three-game losing streak In Miami, Jordany Valdespin hit a three- shot and George Kontos (2-1) pitched 1 2-3 year career that the three-time All-Star and with a win over Texas. Chris Sale (3-2) settled down after a rough run, pinch-homer as the Mets rallied to break innings after starter Tim Lincecum struggled. 2003 World Series MVP has gone winless in his second inning to make it through seven. The left-hander struck out a six-game losing streak and avert a series Sergio Romo extended his scoreless streak first six starts. —AP seven and walked two. Texas managed only two runs in the sec- sweep, beating the Marlins. ond despite a homer, three singles and a walk. Sale then faced only The Mets’ dormant offense finally came MLB results/standings one batter over the minimum 15 the next five innings. Gillaspie’s alive after they fell behind 4-1. Valdespin put homer leading off the seventh against rookie Nick Tepesch (2-2) New York ahead to stay in the sixth inning broke a 2-all tie. Tyler Flowers snapped an 0-for-17 slide with a sin- with his second homer, and NL RBIs leader NY Mets 7, Miami 6; Minnesota 6, Detroit 2; Pittsburgh 6, Milwaukee 4; St. Louis 4, gle before De Aza’s fifth homer of the season. John Buck added a two-run double in the Cincinnati 2; LA Angels 5, Oakland 4; Cleveland 6, Philadelphia 0; NY Yankees 5, TWINS 6, TIGERS 2 seventh. Houston 4; Boston 10, Toronto 1; Washington 2, Atlanta 0; Chicago White Sox 5, In Detroit, Scott Diamond pitched six solid innings as Buck and David Wright each had three of Texas 2; Chicago Cubs 6, San Diego 2; Kansas City 9, Tampa Bay 8; Arizona 9, San Minnesota got to Anibal Sanchez early in a win over Detroit that New York’s 13 hits. Wright hit his third homer Francisco 6; Seattle 8, Baltimore 3; Colorado 7, LA Dodgers 3. snapped the Tigers’ five-game winning streak. Sanchez (3-2) was for the Mets, who totaled only 11 runs during American League National League coming off a 17-strikeout performance against Atlanta, and he their losing streak. Eastern Division Eastern Division fanned five in the first two innings against the Twins - but W L PCT GB Minnesota scored two runs in the first and another in the second. Atlanta 17 10 .630 - Diamond (2-2) didn’t allow a hit until Jhonny Peralta’s single in the CUBS 6, PADRES 2 Boston 19 8 .704 - In Chicago, Scott Feldman retired 18 Washington 14 14 .500 3.5 fifth. The Tigers fought back after trailing 3-0, but reliever Bruce NY Yankees 17 10 .630 2 Philadelphia 12 16 .429 5.5 Rondon allowed two more runs in the seventh to make it 5-2. straight on his way to his first career com- Baltimore 16 12 .571 3.5 plete game and the Cubs took advantage of NY Mets 11 15 .423 5.5 Chris Parmelee hit a solo homer in the eighth. Diamond allowed Tampa Bay 12 15 .444 7 former No. 1 pick Andrew Cashner’s wildness Miami 8 20 .286 9.5 two runs and four hits and was pulled after 88 pitches. in a 6-2 win over the Padres. Toronto 10 18 .357 9.5 Central Division INTERLEAGUE Feldman (2-3) earned his second straight Central Division St. Louis 16 11 .593 - INDIANS 6, PHILLIES 0 win, allowing two runs and three hits while Kansas City 15 10 .600 - Pittsburgh 16 12 .571 0.5 In Cleveland, Ryan Raburn tied a career high with four hits and Detroit 15 11 .577 0.5 walking one. After Chase Headley singled Milwaukee 14 12 .538 1.5 Trevor Bauer allowed one hit in five strong innings for his first AL Minnesota 12 12 .500 2.5 win as Cleveland beat Philadelphia. with two outs in the first, Feldman retired the Cincinnati 15 14 .517 2 Cleveland 12 13 .480 3 Raburn drove in two runs with a single in the third and a dou- next 18 batters. Chicago Cubs 11 16 .407 5 Feldman had 12 strikeouts to set a new Chicago W Sox 11 15 .423 4.5 ble in the fifth. He has 12 hits in his last 14 at-bats, totaling four Western Division career high. He also had an RBI double in the Western Division homers, nine RBIs and five runs scored in the last four games. second to give the Cubs a 2-0 lead. Starlin Texas 17 10 .630 - Colorado 17 11 .607 - The Indians have won a season-high four straight, outscoring Castro was 2 for 4 with two runs scored for Oakland 16 13 .552 2 San Francisco 16 12 .571 1 their opponents 39-5 in that span. Bauer (1-1), called up from the Cubs. Seattle 13 17 .433 5.5 Arizona 15 13 .536 2 Triple-A Columbus before the game, walked six while striking out Cashner, making his first start against the LA Angels 10 17 .370 7 LA Dodgers 13 14 .481 3.5 five and combined with four relievers for the shutout. Cliff Lee (2- team that made him its No. 1 pick in 2008, Houston 8 20 .286 9.5 San Diego 10 17 .370 6.5 2) allowed five runs in six innings for the Phillies. —AP Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Wiggins, doping case in spotlight as Giro starts

NAPLES: Bradley Wiggins’ attempt to That’s the first hurdle,” Wiggins said head-to-head in the four-day Giro del pull off the rare Giro d’Italia-Tour de before departing from England. “That’s Trentino last month, which Nibali won France double begins tomorrow when the one really at this stage and I don’t while Wiggins struggled with mechani- the Italian classic starts in Naples with look beyond that. It’s like the first gold cal problems in the final stage. doping still clouding the sport. medal in the Olympics.” Nibali, mean- Hesjedal, meanwhile, has had a qui- The Briton followed up his Tour de while, has his entire focus on the Giro, eter buildup. But his combined skills of France victory last year by taking gold in and will have the home fans’ support. climbing and time trialing, with solid the time trial at the London Olympics, “The Giro has been our declared goal support from a strong and experienced and Wiggins is the top favorite for the since the start of the season,” Astana Garmin squad, make him a threat. While VANCOUVER: Goalie Roberto Luongo No. 1 of the three-week Giro. team manager Alexandre Vinokourov Froome, Contador and the injured Vancouver Canucks stops Dan Boyle No. 22 of the Vincenzo Nibali of Italy is regarded as said. “We’re all working exclusively to Joaquim Rodriguez are each absent, San Jose Sharks during the second period in Game his top challenger, while defending help Nibali win.” other contenders include 2011 Tour One of the Western Conference Quarterfinals of champion Ryder Hesjedal could also Wiggins won the opening-day time winner Cadel Evans, Scarponi and the 2013 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. —AFP contend again. trial at the 2010 Giro in Amsterdam and Robert Gesink. However, the pre-race attention in wore the leader’s pink jersey for one day The race begins with a 130-kilometer the sport remains on a Spanish court’s before finishing 40th overall. However, (81-mile) sprinting stage in downtown Penguins romp past decision Tuesday to destroy the blood his climbing ability has improved drasti- Naples, which should draw large crowds Islanders, Bruins win bags seized in the seven-year-old cally since then. to watch the likes of Mark Cavendish, Operation Puerto case. “I may lose 20 seconds (to Nibali) on Matthew Goss, John Degenkolb and PITTSBURGH: The Pittsburgh Penguins showed the Spanish doctor Eufemiano Fuentes a bad day but I’m confident I can stay Daniele Bennati fight for the first pink ongoing absence of Sidney Crosby will be no great was found guilty of endangering public with him, no matter what he throws at jersey. impediment to their Stanley Cup ambitions by romping health and given a one-year suspended me,” Wiggins said. “But that’s all I have It’s the first time in 10 years that the past the New York Islanders 5-0 in Wednesday’s open- jail sentence in the case. But the World to do because I’m confident that in the race has opened with a sprinting stage, ing game of their NHL playoff series. Pascal Dupuis Anti-Doping Agency is considering a time trials I can take time on him.” and Cavendish - who has won a com- scored twice and Marc-Andre Fleury made 26 saves for possible appeal of the ruling by Judge Nibali finished third in the 2010 and bined 36 stages at the Giro, Tour and the top-seeded Penguins. Julia Santamaria, who ordered the 2011 Giro and was moved up to second Vuelta - is undoubtedly the man to beat. In Wednesday’s other series openers, Boston’s destruction of more than 200 bags of in 2011 after Contador’s suspension. But Cavendish won’t have Alessandro revised offense clicked in a victory over Toronto, and blood and other evidence gathered in Having moved from Liquigas to Astana, Petacchi as a lead-out man now that the San Jose won at Vancouver. police raids on Fuentes in 2006. Michele Nibali no longer has to split leadership UCI has blocked the Italian’s attempt to Pittsburgh’s Beau Bennett, Kris Letang and Tanner Scarponi, who was awarded the 2011 with Basso. join the Omega Pharma-Quick Step Glass also scored for the Penguins, who had no trouble title after Alberto Contador was stripped This will be the fifth Giro for both team after announcing his retirement against the upstart Islanders even with Crosby sidelined of the honor in another doping case, Wiggins and Nibali. They already went from the Lampre squad. —AP by a broken jaw. Crosby has been out since he was was banned in the Puerto case, and it struck by a puck on March 30 in a game against the will be interesting to see how he reacts Islanders. to the verdicts. Two-time Giro winner “It’s one win,” Dupuis said. “We definitely feel good Ivan Basso, who also served a ban from about it but we’ve just got to put this one behind us and the Puerto case, withdrew Thursday cit- get ready to work for the next one. They’ll definitely look ing a cyst in the seat area. at tape and come out harder, that’s for sure.” The As for the racing, it could come down Penguins beat Evgeni Nabokov four times in the game’s to a contest between Wiggins’ time tri- first 22 minutes, including goals by Letang and Dupuis aling ability and Nibali’s climbing 32 seconds apart early in the second period to send prowess - or vice versa: how each rider Nabokov to the bench after he stopped just 11 shots. performs in their rival’s strongest areas. Kevin Poulin came on in relief and surrendered a soft Nibali’s biggest victory thus far remains goal to Glass. “Some guys worked hard and played a good game,” the 2010 Spanish Vuelta title. In last Islanders coach Jack Capuano said. “Again, with our club year’s Tour he finished third behind the we need all 20 guys going, and we didn’t have all 20.” Sky duo of Wiggins and Chris Froome. Game 2 is today in Pittsburgh. While Wiggins had declared all along Boston’s Nathan Horton scored the go-ahead goal that the Giro was his top priority this late in the first period as the Bruins beat the Toronto year, earlier this week he indicated that Maple Leafs 4-1. The Bruins scored more than three he might challenge Froome instead of goals for the first time in 10 games. They won only two help him in the Tour. of their last nine regular-season games to drop to No. 4 Nobody has pulled off the Giro-Tour LONDON: British cyclist Bradley Wiggins poses for pictures in Standish, seed in the Eastern Conference. double in the same year since Marco That set up a first-round matchup with fifth-seeded north-west England ahead of his participation in the Giro díItalia. Wiggins Pantani accomplished the feat 15 years Toronto, the first time the teams have met in the post- will ride in Team Sky in the Giro díItalia which begins tomorrow. —AFP ago. “The main thing is to win the Giro. season since 1974. The Maple Leafs are in the playoffs for the first time since 2004. Wade Redden also scored in the first period for Boston, and David Krejci and Johnny Boychuk added Orb Kentucky Derby favorite goals in the second. James van Riemsdyk had given Toronto a 1-0 lead with a power play just 1:54 into the CHURCHILL DOWNS: Orb was installed as the early Charming Kitten. “They all did the exact same things,” game. Game 2 is scheduled for tomorrow in Boston, favorite for tomorrow’s 139th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Pletcher said when asked to compare their morning work- where the Bruins have won six straight against the Downs despite landing one of the widest barriers at outs. “They all galloped a mile and three-eighths and they Maple Leafs. San Jose’s Dan Boyle and Patrick Marleau Wednesday’s post position draw. all stood in the starting gate. Everyone did well.” scored in the third period for the Sharks, which rallied to Unfazed by the wide gate, oddsmakers posted the Goldencents, the winner of last month’s Santa Anita beat the Vancouver Canucks 3-1. Boyle and Logan three-year-old, who won last month’s Florida Derby, at the Derby, was posted as the 5-1 third chance after drawing Couture both had a goal and an assist, and Marleau top of the betting charts at 7-2. the eighth post. His trainer Doug O’Neill won last year’s pushed San Jose’s lead to 3-1. Antti Niemi made 28 “I’d love to be the favorite,” Orb’s trainer Shug Kentucky Derby with I’ll Have Another. Lines of Battle, the saves for the Sharks, who were outshot 30-28. McGaughey told reporters after the colt’s morning gallop. Irish-trained colt who secured his place in the race by win- Kevin Bieksa scored for the Canucks before a disap- “I wish every one of my horses was favorite. They’re not all ning the United Arab Emirates Derby, drew 11 while Black pointed white-towel-waving sellout crowd. The loss going to win, I understand that, but I’m on board with Onyx landed the dreaded number one position. spoiled a strong effort from goalie Roberto Luongo, who that.” The unbeaten Verrazano, whose four career wins It has been a quarter of a century since a horse drawn earned the start after Cory Schneider didn’t recover in include the Tampa Bay Derby and the Wood Memorial, was on the rails has won the mile and a quarter (2000 metres) time from an undisclosed injury. The Canucks were the listed as the second choice, at odds of 4-1. race. A total of 21 horses were entered for the race with first home team to lose in the first six games of this He is one of five runners trained by Todd Pletcher. The Fear The Kitten listed as an alternate entrant should any of year’s playoffs. —AP others are Overanalyze, Revolutionary, Palace Malice, and the 20 runners scratch before Friday morning. —Reuters Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Ye makes history but struggles in the wind

BEIJING: China’s 12-year-old Ye Wocheng became the “(Then) the referee timed me-and warned me to play more European Tour’s youngest ever player when he teed off at the quickly. I was affected a little-Guan Tianlang was penalised as Volvo China Open yesterday, but struggled in the stiff wind. well. I will pay more attention to this.” However Dutchman Robert-Jan Derksen made light of the Derksen shrugged off two early bogeys with eight birdies conditions to shoot a six-under-par 66 and take a two-shot around the links-style course at Tianjin Binhai Lake Golf Club. lead after the opening round. Thailand’s Kiradech Aphibarnrat, France’s Raphael Ye struck his opening drive firmly down the middle of the Jacquelin and Australian Brett Rumford shared second place, fairway but finished only with a 79, while his 16-year-old fel- while six players were grouped a shot further back. low qualifier Dou Ze-cheng shot an impressive 70. Defending champion Branden Grace, aiming to become But Ye said he was proud to have broken the age record set the first person to lift the title for a second time and against a last year by countryman Guan Tianlang, who made history last field that boasts six other former winners, ended with 74. month by becoming the youngest player to take part in the “It was a funny day because I started well with a birdie from US Masters. about five feet but then three-putted the third and fourth and Guan was docked a shot for taking too long during the sec- ended up in three divots on the fairways later in the round,” ond round at Augusta and Ye also came under time pressure said Derksen. yesterday. “I was a little nervous when I teed off but I tried to “But I made a lot of birdies (coming home), and I’ve ended forget the nerves,” he said, in comments supplied by OneAsia, the day in a really good position. I started making a few putts who co-sanctioned the tournament. and my confidence lifted.” —AFP

HOUSTON: Rockets center Omer Asik (3) dunks in front of Oklahoma City Thunder center Kendrick Perkins (5) in the Park looks to keep third quarter of Game 5 of their first-round NBA basketball playoff series. — AP hot streak going Celtics cut at Kingsmill Knicks lead WILLIAMSBURG: Inbee Park has never had much success on the River Course at the Kingsmill Championship. She’s also never tackled the layout along the James River as the NEW YORK: Kevin Garnett had 16 points and 18 rebounds and world’s top-ranked female player. the Boston Celtics stayed alive in the NBA playoffs, cutting the New York Knicks’ lead to 3-2 with a 92-86 victory Wednesday The 24-year-old South Korean will do that beginning night. The Celtics will host Game 6 on Friday night, needing two late yesterday, hoping to stay on the roll that has already victories to become the first NBA team to overcome a 3-0 deficit produced three victories this season and completed her to win a series. climb to the No. 1 ranking. Brandon Bass added 17 points, steadying Boston as it shook It will be her first competitive rounds at the popular off an 11-0 deficit and pulled away in the second half to stop the stop on tour since 2009, when for the second time in three Knicks again from their first playoff series victory since 2000. years, she missed the cut. The other time, in 2008, she tied JR Smith, back from his one-game suspension for elbowing for 16th. Jason Terry with the Knicks way ahead late in Game 3, missed his “‘It seems pretty new to me, but somehow I just remem- first 10 shots and finished 3 of 14 for 14 points. Terry also scored ber this course like I played yesterday,” Park said this week. 17 off the bench. Jeff Green scored 18 points and Paul Pierce had “I mean, I just love to come to this spot. It’s a great spot to 16 as the two franchise stalwarts extended this season - and per- come and it’s a very nice resort and very nice golf course. haps their Celtics careers - at least one more game. Carmelo I’m just going to try to enjoy my week of golf here.” Anthony scored 22 points but was just 8 of 24 in another dismal If having success equals fun, Park had had plenty in the shooting night for the Knicks. past year. She has won five of the 18 tournaments she’s played in since June, and finished in the top 11 on six other PACERS 106, HAWKS 83 occasions. She’s been No. 1 for four weeks now, and trying In Indianapolis, David West scored 24 points and Paul George to appreciate it without feeling pressure. had 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead Indiana to a 3-2 series “That’s been my dream since I started playing golf, to be lead. The Pacers have all won three home games in the best-of- the best in the world, and I finally reached it,” she said. seven series and are 5-0 at home this season against the Hawks. They’ll go to Atlanta on Friday with a chance to clinch the best-of- “And it was everything was just coming together and seven series. But the Hawks have won 13 straight at home everything that I dreamed for. against the Pacers, including both games in this series. “You can put a lot of pressure on yourself when you’re Atlanta was led by Josh Smith and Al Horford, who each had No. 1, but I’m just trying to think that’s just a number,” she 14 points. And it was every bit as ugly as the Hawks’ first two dou- continued. “... It’s just No. 1 and No. 1 is just No. 1, not try- ble-digit losses in Indy. Indiana took the lead for good midway ing to say that I need to win every week or anything. It’s through the second quarter and opened the third period on a 12- just I try to enjoy what I’m doing and that’s just a gift. 3 run to make it 62-46. The Pacers put it away when the Hawks Park skipped the tour’s return to Kingsmill after a two- lost their composure. year absence last season, and missed one of the most dra- matic events of the year. ROCKETS 107, THUNDER 100 Countrywoman and former No. 1 player Jiyai Shin and In Oklahoma, James Harden scored 31 points and sank seven Paula Creamer finished regulation in a tie and remained 3-pointers while fighting through flu-like symptoms, and the tied while replaying the 18th hole eight times before dark- Rockets beat the Thunder to pull within 3-2 in their first-round ness came. Returning on Monday morning, Shin won with playoff series. Harden made the first seven 3s he tried and a par on the first hole of the day, the 16th. Houston led by as many as 16 before fending off a rally that It was her first victory in 32 events, a drought helped Oklahoma City helped stymie with its own strategy. along by a wrist injury that had required surgery three The Thunder, apparently doubting they could overcome an months earlier. Six days later, she won the Women’s British eight-point lead on their home court without Russell Westbrook, Open for her second major title. resorted to intentionally fouling Omer Asik - a 54 percent career Shin earned her 11th career victory earlier this season, foul shooter - with 5:33 to play. Asik went 8 for 12 from the line, extending Houston’s lead to 101-92 with 3:53 remaining before but returns to defend her title after a back problem Oklahoma City gave up the tactic. Kevin Durant finished with 36 cropped up a few weeks ago, causing her to skip a tour points for Oklahoma City, which must now travel to Houston for stop in Hawaii to allow it to rest. She played last week to TIANJIN: In this handout photo taken and released by Game 6 on Friday night.—AP get back in the swing, and said, “I feel really good and feel OneAsia shows Park Sang-hyun of Siuth Korea in action dur- ready to go.”— AP ing the pro am of the Volvo China Open. — AP Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

South Africa recall Duminy as Kallis skips Champions Trophy CAPE TOWN: JP Duminy was named provides depth in the middle order is a settled group of players who all departments and we are mindful in South Africa’s Champions Trophy batting apart from an additional have been part of the squad through of that,” Kirsten added. squad yesterday but veteran all- spin-bowling option. Although he is the home one day series against New South Africa will begin their rounder Jacques Kallis will miss the not yet fully fit, Duminy has been Zealand and Pakistan. The team will Champions Trophy campaign against tournament due to personal reasons. batting in the nets and running with be led by AB de Villiers, who is also India at Cardiff on June 6. Squad: AB Duminy suffered a horror Achilles no discomfort. “We are all excited by the only wicket-keeping option in de Villiers (captain), Hashim Amla, injury on South Africa’s test tour of where he is. He is a key component the squad but has had back prob- Farhaan Behardien, JP Duminy, Faf Australia last November and missed of the team and although we are not lems as recently as March. du Plessis, Colin Ingram, Rory out on the side’s golden summer putting too much pressure on him to The squad has eight specialist Kleinveldt, Ryan McLaren, David when they cemented their place as play, he has progressed fairly well,” batsmen, five pacemen and two Miller, Morne Morkel, Robbie the world’s number one test team. Kirsten said at the squad announce- spinners. There are also three part- Peterson, Aaron Phangiso, Graeme His return is a significant boost for ment. Kallis has asked to be excused time spin options. “We have loaded Smith, Dale Steyn, Lonwabo coach Gary Kirsten as the 29-year-old for personal reasons but it otherwise our batting a bit. We must do well in Tsotsobe.—Reuters

Marquez cool ahead of Spanish MotoGP SPAIN: Marc Marquez became the youngest ever MotoGP winner a fortnight ago but he is not letting that success go to his head as he and his fellow riders prepare for Sunday’s Spanish MotoGP at Jerez. The 20-year-old Spaniard, last year’s Moto2 world champion, showed few nerves in capturing the Grand Prix of the Americas in Austin, Texas, but he says he is not expecting other victories to fall into his lap. “I have to keep my feet on the ground after my success in the United States because here all the riders have a lot more experience than I do,” he admitted. Chief among those who will be chasing him down will be the Yamaha duo of his com- patriot and defending champion Jorge Lorenzo and Italian legend Valentino Rossi. Lorenzo, who along with Rossi dominated testing in Jerez pre-season, said that the lay-out of the Jerez track would suit him better than the Austin circuit. He was, however, outridden in this race last year by Honda’s now retired Australian star Casey Stoner, who beat him by less than a second. “The fast bends will make it easier for us here,” said Lorenzo, whose third place in the United States was his 100th podium finish 10 years after posting his first with victory in the Brazil Grand Prix. Yamaha aren’t panicking because of Marquez’s stunning victory as they had held the upper hand in the opening race when Lorenzo won the Qatar MotoGP with Rossi second. “The podium is our target,” said team chief Wilco Zeelenberg. “There is no rush to win as there are so many races still remaining.” Marquez’s team-mate Dani Pedrosa will also be keen to make his mark after a disappointing start to a season he is hoping will see him finally land the world title that has eluded him since he moved up to this category in 2006. Pedrosa, 27, has not won at Jerez since 2008 but will be looking to re-establish his pre-season status as number one Boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr Honda rider. British rider Cal Crutchlow too can entertain hopes of victory on his Yamaha M1 as he recorded the fastest time of all the riders in pre-season training. Ducati have had an even longer wait for victory here than Pedrosa and Andrea Mayweather calm in face Dovizioso and Nicky Hayden will lead their challenge to secure their first win since Loris Capirossi triumphed in 2006. The Spanish home crowd will also be praying for wins in of ‘woman beater’ taunts the Moto2 and Moto3 races. Nicolas Terol will be keen to back up his success in Texas - his first win in 18 months - and take LAS VEGAS: Eight-time world cham- tionship with his own father, Floyd Sr, countdown clock on his career. the overall lead in the Moto2 standing off consistent British pion Floyd Mayweather refused to be who will be in his corner for the first “They say the pressure is on me. rider Scott Redding. drawn into a war of words at the final time since a March 2000 win over The pressure is on him to stay unde- The Moto3 race looks like being a toss up between three news conference for his WBC welter- Gregorio Vargas. feated, to keep his legacy going,” Spaniards Alex Rins, Luis Salom and Maverick Vinales, who has weight title clash with Robert “My dad is sick, and if I never made Guerrero (31-1-1, 18 KOs) told yet to deliver on his pre-season status as title favorite and, Guerrero on Wednesday, despite a bond with my father and some- reporters on Wednesday. “He has unlike his two compatriots, is yet to win this season.—AFP being labeled a “woman beater” by thing harsh happened, it would hurt these 30 months left, and he’s got a his opponent’s father. me,” said Mayweather of his father, lot of stuff to fulfill, so I think the The undefeated Mayweather (43- who has been suffering from sar- pressure is on him and not me.” 0, 26 KOs), who has said he has 30 coidosis. Mending fences with his Guerrero first called for a fight months of boxing left before he father, he adds, has yielded profes- with Mayweather in 2011, even brings the curtain down on his sional as well as personal benefits. though at lightweight he was two career, was a picture of calm as “There’s certain things only my weight divisions lower. However, he Ruben Guerrero screamed at him: dad may see in training camp,” he made the step up to welterweight “We are going to beat the woman told reporters. “For this fight, I made and scored two victories last year, beater”. sure I got more rest. including a thrilling brawl with for- Mayweather served two months of “My dad said, ‘You need the rest. mer title holder Andre Berto in a 90-day sentence for domestic vio- And when you’ve rested, you can November, to earn the shot at lence last year. “I don’t have to sit come back and box in the gym and Mayweather’s title. “Definitely, I here and badmouth his father,” you’re going to look a lot better.’ And absolutely believed I would get (the shrugged Mayweather after the news he was right. I feel like I’m in tip-top fight),” said Guerrero. “That’s why I conference. “Only God can judge shape, tip-top condition. I’m ready to kept on it, and kept fighting the me.” The fight in Las Vegas tomorrow fight.” Guerrero, too, is ready to fight, fights I needed to get myself in posi- will mark a turning point in and believes Mayweather has invited tion to make it happen, and here it Marc Marquez in action in this file photo. Mayweather’s often contentious rela- more stress on himself by starting the is.”—Reuters Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 Juve set to clinch Photo of the day title against chaotic Palermo

ITALY: Juventus are poised to clinch the Serie A title on Sunday in a match against struggling Palermo which brings together the two extremes of Italian soccer. With their own stadium, recent stability and restrained trans- fer policy, forward-looking Juventus are the club who have best adapted to the harsh new financial realities of Serie A. Lowly Palermo, on the other hand, have been mired in chaos, firing and hiring coaches at embarrassing speed on the whim of their eccentric president Maurizio Zamparini. Juventus, 11 points clear of second-placed Napoli, need only a point on Sunday to retain the title and, even in the unlikely event of a Palermo win, they would still seal it that day if Napoli fail to beat injury-plagued Inter Milan in the late game. If they do not wrap it up this weekend, they will still have three more chances to secure it. Antonio Conte’s side have not quite matched the consistency of last season, when they completed the champi- onship without losing a game, but with 25 wins and only four defeats in 34 outings, they are quite clearly a cut above the rest. Juventus, who have won their last seven league matches, have managed to keep the core of last season’s side intact while Kenny Belaey stalls his front wheel on a log in Pacifica, CA USA. www.redbullcontentpool.com 20-year-old midfielder Paul Pogba has been an impressive addi- tion to the team since he was signed from Manchester United. As last season, their new, compact and raucous stadium, near- ly always full, is a stark contrast to the wind-swept rows of empty AFC elects Sheikh Salman seats in some of Serie A’s over-sized and run-down publicly owned arenas. Napoli’s challenge effectively ended at the start of March when they could only manage a 1-1 draw at home to president, EXCO member Juventus during a rare dry spell for forward Edinson Cavani, the league’s leading scorer with 23 goals. KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation handed the “We’ve had a great season, with only a few bad games, but reins of power to Sheikh Salman Bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa yesterday, Juventus have done better,” Napoli forward Marek Hamsik said in ignoring concerns about alleged human rights breaches and elect- an interview with Sky Sports Italia. “To make that jump in quality, ing the Bahraini as its new president and member of FIFA’s all-pow- we have to avoid messing up games the way we did against erful executive committee. Sampdoria, Torino and Bologna.” Relegation-threatened Palermo Sheikh Salman secured 33 of the 46 presidential votes available have had an extraordinary season, yet, more by luck than judg- from AFC member associations in Malaysia, to beat Yousuf Al Serkal ment, seem to have stumbled on a formula that could yet earn of the United Arab Emirates (six votes) and Thailand’s Worawi them a reprieve under a coach they originally fired after three Makudi (seven votes) in a lop-sided election. The result drew huge games of the season. Giuseppe Sannino was dismissed by cheers from the auditorium with compatriot Sheikh Ali Bin Khalifa Zamparini in September and replaced by Gian Piero Gasperini, then announcing his resignation from the AFC executive commit- who lasted until early February when he was also sacked. That tee so that Sheikh Salman could assume the presidency. Member was the start of an extraordinary sequence of hiring and firing. Associations are only allowed one seat in the AFC exco. The Alberto Malesani was handed the reins but was fired after Bahraini replaces disgraced Qatari Mohamed Bin Hammam, who three matches, then Gasperini was brought back and sacked after was banned for life by FIFA in 2011 amid allegations of trying to two games before Sannino was given another chance. buy votes during the lobbying process to run the world governing Incredibly, Sannino’s return proved a success and Palermo are body. The AFC had been in limbo ever since, with China’s Zhang unbeaten in their last five games, enabling them to creep out of Jilong’s interim leadership beset by numerous matchfixing and the relegation zone thanks to their head-to-head record against graft scandals among member associations. Dressed in a sharp Genoa who are level with them on points. Napoli look almost cer- grey suit and black tie, the softly spoken Sheikh Salman took to the KUALA LUMPUR: Newly elected President of Asian tain to take second place and Serie A’s only other direct place in microphone and told the AFC Congress, FIFA President Sepp Football Confederation Sheikh Salman Bin Ibrahim Al the Champions League group stage, needing six more points to Blatter and UEFA head Michel Platini that the confederation had to Khalifa of Bahrain smiles during AFC conference at a hotel make mathematically certain. The real battle is for third place reform and become more transparent. in Kuala Lumpur. Sheikh Salman won a landslide victory and the Champions League playoff round spot. —Reuters “Today I’m proud and happy, proud and happy to see the Asia to be elected president of the Asian Football football family gathered together,” he said. “Proud and happy to Confederation replacing longtime rival Mohamed bin see our family united under one roof in the capital of Asian football. Hammam. —AP Ogier leads “We need complete reforms, what we need is an AFC where deci- sion makers are accountable,” he added. His candidacy had drawn but his chances appear unlikely without the support of the Olympic in Argentina outrage from two human rights groups in Bahrain who asked Council of Asia, whose backing helped elect Prince Ali Bin Al Blatter to withdraw Sheikh Salman from the vote, accusing the Hussein to the FIFA executive committee two years ago and now CORDOBA: French driver Sebastien Ogier, in a Volkswagen Polo, Bahraini royal of human rights breaches during the pro democracy Sheikh Salman. held on to his overall lead in the Rally of Argentina after the second uprising that began in 2011. The shorter two-year term on offer to the winner of Thursday’s dayís first two special stages yesterday. Sheikh Salman, the head of the Bahrain Football Association, vote was a result of Bin Hammam’s exit. The Qatari was elected Ogier, who heads the world championship driver standings and has denied the groups’ accusations that players were arrested, unopposed as AFC president for a third four-year term in 2011, claimed his third win of the season in the Rally of Portugal last time detained, abused, tortured and publicly humiliated under his direc- leaving two years on that cycle. Blatter said earlier it was time for out, picked up where he left off on Wednesday evening, winning tion for their role in the protests. Praising the efforts of China’s Asian soccer to move forward. “It is a historical day because it is a the first special of the day. But he saw Finnish Citroen driver Mikko Zhang, who stepped in to fill the void left by Bin Hammam, Sheikh day of election, a day of election in your confederation that has Hirvonen haul himself back into contention with the fastest time on Salman called on AFC members to take the initiative in reform. been in a difficult situation during the past two years,” the Swiss the 52km second special of the day from Ascochinga to Agua de “You need to be part of an open, fair transparent dialogue in the said. “And together you have overcome all these difficulties and Oro. Hirvonenís Citroen stablemate Dani Sordo lost several minutes future. Our acting president, Zhang Jilong, has started this dialogue now you are in this situation where you are going to have a restart. when he rolled his DS3, with it ending on its roof needing to be successfully, we can be grateful for a man to take the role at a chal- “But I would identify this restart as an intermediary restart because righted with the help of spectators. lenging time. “Clean up the past and turn the page for the future, then the right start will be in two years in 2015 ... you have two But he ran into controversy as he re-started just in front of Ogier, restore transparency and integrity.” Following the election, former more years to put your house in order.” who later accused him of slowing him down over several kilome- AFC president Bin Hammam published a cryptic Tweet in Arabic, Following the presidential vote, Sheikh Salman was then elect- tres. The third Citroen driver, Franceís ëretiredí Sebastien Loeb, kept using a phrase that is usually reserved for offering condolences. A ed to FIFA’s decision-making executive committee, securing 28 in touch with the leaders as he bids to maintain his extraordinary disappointed Al Serkal, an ally of Bin Hammam, promised to work votes to Qatari Hassan Al Thawadi’s 18. Sheikh Salman had narrow- record in the race, having won every edition of this South American with Sheikh Salman for the good of Asian soccer after the hum- ly failed to unseat then-AFC President Bin Hammam from FIFA’s leg of the championship since 2005. With a heavily-reduced pro- bling loss in an election he had said he was favourite to win. ExCo in 2009; losing a hostile vote of AFC members 23-21, with two gramme this year, Loeb sat out the Mexico and Portugal legs of the “I will have to work with him and he will have to work with me,” votes deemed invalid because they were spoilt. Northern Mariana championship, but with the second best time on the third special he told reporters. “I’m not going to be a cause or a reason to create Islands were not given a vote as an associate member, while Brunei stage, is now third in the overall standings, six seconds behind friction between my country or any other country. “My job, my were approved voting rights after winning a motion at the start of Ogier. Two more specials are scheduled for late yesterday, over the role, is to bring people together, that is the spirit of sports, the spirit the congress despite not taking part in the required two AFC com- same terrain as the morning stages.—AFP of football.” Al Serkal did not say if he would run again in two years, petitions in the last two years. —Reuters Sports FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013

PREVIEW Chelsea’s top four hopes face Old Trafford test

LONDON: Manchester United are while sixth-placed Everton, who have finishing fourth, they were denied a already basking in the glow of the doggedly refused to give up the chase Champions League chance because Premier League title but if anything is for a top-four berth, must beat Chelsea won the trophy. likely to put the summer holiday plan- Merseyside rivals Liverpool at Anfield “We all need to stick together now ning on hold it is a visit from Chelsea. for the first time in 14 years on Sunday and give one final push to get where Hurt by Capital One (League) Cup and if they are to stay in the hunt. Chelsea we want to be,” Bale said. “We have FA Cup exits at the hands of the west will be playing their 12th game in little four games to go and we want to fin- London club this season, United have more than 30 days at Old Trafford on ish the job off.” With games at QPR, at the chance to put a huge dent in Sunday and will be looking for a third home to Wigan and away to Chelsea’s hopes of finishing in the top win of the season over Ferguson’s Newcastle United left, Arsenal look to four. side, following a 5-4 League Cup win have the easiest task as they seek a That is bad news for Chelsea, for when Roberto Di Matteo was still in 16th consecutive appearance in the whom the fixtures have been piling up charge and a 1-0 FA Cup replay win Champions League. Midfielder Mikel in recent weeks courtesy of their masterminded by Benitez last month. Arteta said he expects the battle for exploits in the Europa League - a com- Benitez, who will leave Stamford third and fourth to go to the wire. “It petition they are determined to avoid will be about who is the most clinical playing in next season. With the title at the right moments,” he told MUNICH: Bayern Munich’s Dutch midfielder Arjen race done and dusted, Manchester Arsenal’s website (www.arsenal.com) Robben (center) arrives at the airport in Munich after City odds on to be runners-up and “When it gets to the last games the his team’s victory over Barcelona in the UEFA Reading and Queens Park Rangers teams who are the most clinical win Champions League semi-final second leg football already relegated, the battle for third the games. We have seen that over the match. —AFP and fourth spots has taken centre last few weeks. It will be a difficult bat- stage with Chelsea vying with Arsenal, tle for everyone.” Bayern, Dortmund brace Tottenham Hotspur and Everton for a Everton have two motivations at for awkward encounter place in the Champions League. Liverpool. Victory would mean they Chelsea are third in the final automatic would finish above their rivals for suc- GERMANY: At any other moment in the last three years a Champions League spot with 65 cessive seasons for the first time since Bundesliga encounter between already-crowned champi- points, one ahead of Arsenal who have 1937 and would also maintain their Rafa Benitez ons Bayern Munich and arch-rivals Borussia Dortmund one game less to play and three ahead quest for a place in the top four. “We’re would be a season highlight yet their Saturday clash is of Spurs, who have the toughest run- Bridge later this month, has been five points above them at the minute nothing more than an awkward moment. in on paper as they visit Stamford forced to juggle his squad as a long and a win would certainly be great for Germany’s top two teams have a much bigger trophy in Bridge on Wednesday in what could campaign draws to a conclusion and us,” said midfielder Leon Osman. “But their sights when they meet in the Champions League final prove a decisive fixture. will be asking his side to dig deep we’re still on the coat-tails of the teams on May 25 after brushing aside Spain’s Barcelona and Real Fourth is worth a Champions again at United, and then again above us and we’re trying to win for Madrid. Bayern’s 3-0 win at Barcelona for a 7-0 aggregate League playoff spot. By the time against Spurs on Wednesday. that reason as well.” victory on Wednesday came a day after Dortmund eased Chelsea’s interim manager Rafa Spurs missed a trick with a 2-2 draw At the other end of the table, FA past Real despite a 2-0 loss to set up the first all-German Cup finalists Wigan are staring relega- Benitez locks horns again with old at lowly Wigan Athletic last weekend, final in the competition. tion in the face after several Houdini- adversary Alex Ferguson on Sunday, but will aim to steal a march on their “This thing with Bayern now is a funny constellation,” like escapes. Spurs’ late equaliser last the pressure could have been ratch- London rivals and move level on said Dortmund coach Juergen Klopp. “We will have to see week left Roberto Martinez’s side five eted up a notch. points with Chelsea, if only temporari- how we can do it.” His second-placed team are assured a ly, with victory over Southampton. points behind Newcastle with a game Spurs, who like Chelsea have four Champions League spot next season while Bayern, chasing Gareth Bale, who joined Tottenham in hand. Victory at West Bromwich games to play, are the first of the con- a treble of trophies which also includes the German Cup, tenders in action this weekend with a from Southampton in 2007 and has Albion tomorrow combined with clinched the league title weeks ago with a handful of home match against Southampton on since become one of the most sought- defeats for Newcastle, who visit West games to spare. Saturday (1400 GMT). after players in Europe, believes the Ham United, or Aston Villa at Norwich Fourth-placed Arsenal kick off a few north London club can make up for City would raise hopes of another With Klopp’s team facing their biggest game in 16 years hours later at Queens Park Rangers last season’s heartache when, despite great escape. — Reuters at Wembley stadium on May 25, the 45-year-old could be forgiven for putting the league derby on the backburner. “We will give it everything we have, I can promise that. We have enough time to recover but if Bayern beat us (in Weary Barca seek quick the league on Saturday) then I do not think there will ever be fewer disappointed people in Dortmund,” Klopp said. The coach will most likely be without Mario Goetze, end to La Liga title race who has agreed to join Bayern at the end of the season, after he pulled a muscle and limped off early in the first MADRID: Barcelona have a second chance to wrap up their Vilanova said the World Player of the Year was not injured half against Real. fourth La Liga title in five years this weekend as they stum- but felt a “strange sensation” before the Bayern game, and “With Mario it will be tight for any game from now on,” ble towards the end of the season and a much-needed re- decided it was best to start with him on the bench. Once Klopp said of the talented offensive midfielder’s chances of grouping at the club after their Champions League humilia- Arjen Robben had put the Germans ahead in the second playing again this season. Midfielder Sven Bender is also tion. The leaders host Real Betis on Sunday (1900 GMT) hav- half, Vilanova quickly gave up on any chance of a fightback, nursing an ankle injury while Klopp looks set to rest a ing been swept out of their semi-final 7-0 on aggregate by a decided against committing Messi and withdrawing his two string of other key players. far superior Bayern Munich on Wednesday. leading playmakers Xavi and Andres Iniesta. Barca have “We will try to cause Bayern some problems but we will With five games left, Barca hold an 11-point lead over appeared lethargic in recent games, lacking in sharpness, have to wait and see if it works.” Bayern are equally non- second-placed Real Madrid, who host Real Valladolid on and a number of players have spoken of feeling stretched chalant about the derby, having their eyes firmly set on the Saturday (1800). A victory for Barca and a defeat for Real to the limit during the season run-in. treble - a first for a German team - with the league already would be enough to secure Tito Vilanova the league trophy They have managed only three wins from their last nine wrapped up. “No, no, it is not pointless,” Bayern coach in his debut season at the Nou Camp helm. games in all competitions and may be forced to wait a little Heynckes told reporters when asked if the upcoming “We are very deflated but there is still a La Liga title to longer before they can start to turn their focus on next sea- league game against their rivals had any weight given the secure,” Barca midfielder Cesc Fabregas told reporters after son. Betis, seventh in the standings and chasing a place in bigger date the two clubs have. the Bayern game. Defender Gerard Pique added: “We need Europe next season, have one of the best away records in La “But we will not start thinking about it before Friday. We to sort it out as quickly as possible. “We haven’t known how Liga although like Barca they have started to run out of will celebrate, enjoy this moment and from Friday onwards to compete effectively in the King’s Cup or the Champions steam and have one win from their last six outings. we can start thinking about it,” he said after Bayern League but we have been very consistent in the league.” Real’s Champions League semi-final exit to Borussia booked their third Champions League final spot in four Central to wrapping up the trophy will be getting top scorer Dortmund on Tuesday was not as traumatic as Barca’s, as years. Third-placed Bayer Leverkusen could make sure of Lionel Messi back to full fitness from his hamstring problem they at least salvaged some pride by almost completing a the final automatic Champions League qualification spot after he surprisingly sat out Wednesday’s 3-0 home defeat. comeback at the Bernabeu. —Reuters with a win at Nuremberg. — Reuters Bayern, Dortmund brace for awkward encounter

Page 47

www.kuwaittimes.net FRIDAY, MAY 3, 2013 OgierOgier leadsleads iinn AArgergentntiinnaa

PAGE 46

CORDOBA: French driver Sebastien Ogier steers his Volkswagen Polo R WRC with compatriot co-driver Julien Ingrassia during the 3rd stage of the WRC Argentina 2013 near Agua de Or. —AFP