Community Community The first One woman round of top has devised achievers in a plan for P7the Hoya Leadership P16 people to get Pathway programme get one up on social honoured at an awards media bullies: ceremony at GU-Q. cakes.

Thursday, June 8, 2017 Ramadan 13, 1438 AH

DOHA 31°C—43°C TODAY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 11 PUZZLES 12 & 13 Amazing Armenia

COVER STORY

Trawling the country’s countless beautiful monasteries and more. P4-5 SERENE: A view of the Lake Sevan, found in the heart of Armenia, is the country’s largest fresh water lake and a beautiful place to visit. 2 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

PRAYER TIME Fajr 3.14am Shorooq (sunrise) 4.43am Zuhr (noon) 11.33am Asr (afternoon) 2.56pm Maghreb (sunset) 6.26pm Isha (night) 7.56pm

USEFUL NUMBERS

Hindi Medium for their daughter’s sake. The fi lm traces their trials and DIRECTION: Saket Chaudhary tribulations on this journey, and the impact it has on their WRITTEN BY: Joey Curtis, Paul Sidhu relationship as a family. Mita aspires that their 5-year-old CAST: Irrfan Khan, Saba Qamar, Deepak Dobriyal daughter Pia should break this barrier and is adamant that she SYNOPSIS: This light-hearted, romantic story follows a is to be admitted to one of the top fi ve schools in Delhi. Emergency 999 young couple – Raj and Mita – who live in Chandni Chowk, Worldwide Emergency Number 112 Delhi, with aspirations to move into English-speaking society THEATRE: Royal Plaza Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991 Local Directory 180 Fireman Sam: Alien Alert! The Movie International Calls Enquires 150 DIRECTION: Gary Andrews Hamad International Airport 40106666 CAST: David Tennant, Steven Labor Department 44508111, 44406537 Kynman, Tegwen Tucker, David Mowasalat Taxi 44588888 Carling Qatar Airways 44496000 SYNOPSIS: The iconic fi reman Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333 has to unravel the mysterious Qatar General Electricity and circumstances surrounding alien- Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464 hunter-turned-TV-presenter Douglas’ Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 arrival to the town of Pontypandy. 44593363 With UFO sightings on the increase, Qatar Assistive Technology he is determined to get to the bottom Centre 44594050 of the odd events. When Norman Qatar News Agency 44450205 thinks he sees a fl ying saucer, not 44450333 only does it kick off an exciting rescue Q-Post – General Postal for Fireman Sam but also brings the Corporation 44464444 Buck Douglas Alien Quest TV show to Pontypandy. Soon everyone has gone Humanitarian Services Offi ce Space Spotting mad and Alien hunting (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) related emergencies are happening all Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, over the place. Will Fireman Sam be 40253369 able to save the day? Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 THEATRES: Royal Plaza, The Mall, Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Landmark Qatar Airways 40253374

The Mall Cinema (1): Howard Raabta (Hindi) 2:45pm; The Lovecraft And The Frozen Mummy (2D) 8:30pm; Raabta te Unqu Kingdom (2D) 1:15pm; Raabta (Hindi) 10:30pm. uo ot (Hindi) 2:45pm; The Mummy Raabta (Hindi) 2:45pm; The Royal Plaza Cinema Palace Q e (2D) 8:30pm; Raabta (Hindi) Mummy (2D) 8:30pm; Raabta (2): Raabta (Hindi) 1:15pm; Wise men 10:30pm,. (Hindi) 10:30pm. Howard Lovecraft And The speak because they The Mall Cinema (2): Landmark Cinema (2): Frozen Kingdom (2D) 4pm; have something to say; Raabta (Hindi) 1:15pm; CIA: Comrade In America CIA: Comrade In America Howard Lovecraft And The (Malayalam) 1:15pm; The (Malayalam) 8:30pm; The Fools because they have to Frozen Kingdom (2D) 4pm; Bleeder (2D) 3:30pm; Mummy (2D) 11pm. say something. CIA: Comrade In America CIA: Comrade In America Royal Plaza Cinema Palace – Plato (Malayalam) 8:30pm; The (Malayalam) 8:30pm; The (3: CIA: Comrade In America Mummy (2D) 11pm. Mummy (2D) 11pm. (Malayalam) 1:15pm; The The Mall Cinema (3): Landmark Cinema (3): Bleeder (2D) 3:30pm; Howard CIA: Comrade In America Raabta (Hindi) 1:15pm; Howard Lovecraft And The Frozen (Malayalam) 1:15pm; The Lovecraft And The Frozen Kingdom (2D) 9pm; The Bleeder (2D) 3:30pm; Howard Kingdom (2D) 4pm; Howard Mummy (2D) 10:30pm. Community Editor Lovecraft And The Frozen Lovecraft And The Frozen Asain Town Cinema: Kamran Rehmat Kingdom (2D) 9pm; The Kingdom (2D) 9pm; The Godha (Malayalam) 11:30pm; e-mail: [email protected] Mummy (2D) 10:30pm. Mummy (2D) 10:30pm. CIA: Comrade In America Telephone: 44466405 Landmark Cinema (1): Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (Malayalam) 8, 10:30 & Fax: 44350474 Howard Lovecraft And The (1): Howard Lovecraft And The 11pm; Rakshadhikari Baiju Frozen Kingdom (2D) 1:15pm; Frozen Kingdom (2D) 1:15pm; (Malayalam) 8 & 11pm. Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 3 ROUND & ABOUT COMMUNITY

EVENTS gallery. The exhibition commenced on May 25 following Ramadan timings of 9am to 4th annual Mathaf Student Art 10pm and from June 25th to July 25th will Exhibition be open for free public viewing from 9am WHERE: Arab Museum of Modern Art to 7pm. The expansive Art 29 space has WHEN: June 8 been established to spark inspiration and The annual Mathaf Student Art nurture creativity by providing a platform Competition and Exhibition (SAC&E) to showcase works of both budding and is returning for the fifth time this year. established artists. The exhibition will showcase the works of students who won the countrywide Summer Camp art competition, this time following the WHERE: Ain Khaled theme “what is your imagined future city?” WHEN: July 2-Aug 31 The competition is an original Mathaf TIME: 8am-1pm educational programme that supports Summertime is just memories waiting Camera Kids: Make Your Own Short QM’s commitment for art education and characters, and create interesting plots to happen. The Stem Xplorers Summer Film creativity. SAC&E celebrates the creative and narratives. Using concrete examples Camp is just the place for your kids to make WHEN: Aug 6- 24 minds of students aged between 6-18 and and working in groups, at the end of the lifelong memories to cherish. A well-rounded introduction to the encourages students, teachers and parents workshop all participants will have found Our camp will be Stem-based wherein diff erent elements of photography, film and to explore modern and contemporary their own voices and will be able to write we will engage the children in Science along fi lmmaking helps young people make their art by experiencing Mathaf’s permanent and develop their stories. Some of the with Lego, some exciting Sports, Nutrition, fi rst one-minute short fi lms. Applicants must collection. work written during the workshop may be Arts, Crafts and Outdoor Field Trips!! Each be between 13 and 17 years old. nominated to be developed and produced week will be a different theme covering an Garangao Celebration during DFI’s Camera Kids workshop, which exciting new Stem project making science Train like a superhero WHERE: Doha Festival City will take place in August. come to life. Call us now on 33996665 or WHERE: Aspire Zone WHEN: June 9 3120001. WHEN: Ongoing Doha Festival City is honouring the Henna Painting Train like a superhero at CrossFit Doha! biggest traditional celebration for children WHERE: Doha Festival City CrossFit holds a variety of disciplines from this Ramadan with a fun-packed Garangao WHEN: June 22-25 weightlifting to calisthenics to gymnastics. event. First, kids will be given their own TIME: 9pm This will help your kids excel in sports and mall maps that will give them clues to find For the last five days of Ramadan, and retain the healthy and fi t lifestyle! Support and collect candy and nuts hidden all over in celebration of Eid al-Fitr, there will your kids’ natural urge for physical activities Doha Festival City. Get the map and find be professional henna artists designing and train like a superhero, at CrossFit Doha’s them quick! They can then also take part beautiful henna art on guests. Children will in demand Kids Classes today! CrossFit Doha in the Drum Making Workshop – where also have the opportunity to handcraft their is located at Aspire Zone Sports City. For everyone will have the chance to design and own henna designs on printed paper. Being more information, call 44138484. build their own drum, made out of recycled the national bird and symbol of culture in tin containers. the Middle East, guests will also have the Salsa Beginners Dance Class chance to have their photo taken with a WHEN: Every Friday Meerat Ramadan falcon at Doha Festival City. WHERE: B Attitude Spa, West Bay WHERE: Katara Summer Camp Wakrah TIME: 8pm-9pm WHEN: Until end of Ramadan Karting at Losail Circuit Sports Club WHERE: Music Lounge, Al Wakrah Salsa n Candela off ers variety of dance TIME: 5pm-9pm WHEN: Until June 16 WHEN: July 2-31 classes for adults at Beverly Hills Tower such The Ramadan Market is open to the WHERE: Losail International Circuit, This is a 1 month packaged summer as Salsa every Friday and other Latin dance public, and scheduled to run until the Doha camp programme that brings great fun during other days of the week. end of Ramadan. According to the Katara TIME: 5pm onwards with learning, creating and exploring. website, the current hours (until June The Karting track at Losail International The camp is designed to bring out a 360 Festive time 17) are 5pm until 9pm, although we Circuit is open for public. Also it can degree development in the talents and skill WHEN: Ongoing recommend that you check it is open before be opened for private companies (upon level of the students. The camp includes WHERE: Doha Festival City making a special journey as timings may request and availability). The registrations training in keyboard, guitar, drums, art, The entertainment off ering has been change during Ramadan. There will be kids will be done directly at the venue, at the craft, communication skills, zumba, hip designed to ensure there are numerous area with bouncy castle, and it is expected VIP Car Park of the Losail International hop, fun with games, movies, competitions, opportunities for physical activities, from that the Ramadan market will be popular Circuit. The minimum age is 15 years old cultural tour, fun day activities, art the running track which features exercise with families as they enjoy their Ramadan and any participant under the age of 18 exhibition and fashion show. The camp is stations, the bike trail, through to our ‘fi rst- evenings at Katara. needs permission signed by a legal guardian for ages 5-15. Transportation is available of-its-kind’ in Qatar, Snow Dunes theme for the karting activity. from Doha, Al Wakrah and Mesaieed. park. DFC is excited to welcome fi rst visitors Ramadan Nights at Aqua Park Qatar in April and to celebrate the best leisure WHEN: Entire Ramadan Beauty of Islamic Calligraphy #I Am Evo Summer Camp facilities, retail mix and dining options, all WHERE: Aqua Park WHERE: QM Gallery Al Riwaq WHERE: Al Waab and Doha College with exceptional service. TIME: 8pm-2am WHEN: Until June 17 West Bay Have fun with your family and friends in A new exhibition – Contemporary WHEN: July 2 onwards Summer Workshop 2017 for kids style! World class attractions and a thrilling Calligraphy – Mehmet Cebi Collection TIME: 8am to 1pm WHERE: IAID water park experience! From the coolest will open at the QM Gallery Al Riwaq, and The #IamEvo Camps are designed to WHEN: July- Aug rides to the extreme ones, Aqua Park has it will bring together a notable selection challenge young athletes to progressively Summer break is a long-awaited respite for all at 50% discount this Ramadan! Don’t of intricate and beautiful calligraphic develop their skills, performance and your kids after months of hitting the books. miss out! artworks dating from the 1960s to the confidence. The courses are structured This is an opportunity for them to hone present day. to meet the needs of all young players, to their current skills, pick up a new hobby, or The Joy of Craft Making have fun, learn new skills and meet new simply stay active, whether their interest lies WHERE: Doha Festival City friends in a safe and friendly environment. in dance, music or arts. This summer, get WHEN: June 15-17 Members have a choice of venue, with your kids up and going by enrolling them at TIME: 9pm camps held at Doha College Al Waab and IAID! Starting three years and above, we have Children will have the chance to try their Doha College West Bay. The camps are courses to off er this summer such as Ballet hand and Arts and Crafts this Ramadan. open to boys and girls aged 4-16 years and Kids, Strum-A-Long, Bolly Thumka, Music Between Prayer Mat Making, Money run from 8 am to 1 pm daily at each site. Fun, ARTmazing & more. Box Making, Ommi Doll Colouring and Registration Now Open. Ramadan Cards, there are four different Imperial Threads: Motifs and Artisans workshops to take part in over the weekend WHERE: Museum of Islamic Art and something for everyone! WHEN: Until November 4 This exhibition focuses on the exchange How to Tell a Story of artistic and material cultures between WHEN: June 18- 22 W Doha Hotel: Art 29 gallery the Ottoman, Safavid, and Mughal Empires. WHERE: DFI WHERE: W Doha Hotel & Residences Highlighting MIA’s masterpiece carpets, TIME: 2pm – 3:30pm WHEN: Until July 25 among other artworks, from Turkey, Iran and During this workshop, participants TIME: 9am-7pm India, these objects will be contextualised are introduced to the Pixar storytelling W Doha Hotel & Residences are hosting within the historical circumstances of formula, and engage in interactive the works of local artist Abdulwahed al- politics and artistic production of their time, exercises to help them generate ideas, write Mawlawi at the property’s in-house Art 29 primarily from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change 4 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY COVER STORY Stunning Armenia A familiarisation trip to the republic, organised by Air Arabia, was an exciting opportunity to explore the country’s truly outstanding natural beauty, writes T N Shaji

A view of the ‘Pharaon’ leisure and entertainment complex in Yerevan which is a combination of luxury and refinement.

epublic of Armenia is There is a wide range of both a country of ancient luxury restaurant cafes off ering fast monasteries, and food. In fast food chains, visitors former Soviet Union, can have a full meal and pay only in the Caucasus region 1,500-2,000 AMD ($3-4), in the Rbetween Asia and Europe. With national restaurants the dinner will beautiful mountains, especially cost from 5,000 to 15,000 AMD the Mount Ararat, relaxed pace ($10-30) or higher that depends on of life and welcoming residents, the prestige and selected dishes. stable weather and lower crime The cuisine refl ects the history rate, Armenia is a perfect tourist and geography where Armenians destination. The cheapest fl ights to have lived as well as incorporating Armenia provided by some leading outside infl uences. In Armenia, airlines include Qatar Airways, Air there is a restaurant for each taste Arabia, Fly Dubai, Atlasglobal and like Armenian national cuisine, MEA. Lebanese cuisine, Middle Eastern One of the reasons why tourists cuisine, Indian cuisine, Georgian prefer to spend their holiday in cuisine, Special Halal menu, Armenia is very aff ordable prices. homemade food, European, The national currency in Armenia continental and snack menu. is dram (AMD), which exists in the Visa procedures are also form of banknotes and coins. Most simplifi ed as part of promoting often during the daily expenses, tourism in Armenia. The citizens of Armenians use banknotes of 1,000 the UAE with all types of passports or 5,000 dram and coins of 200 and are exempt from the requirement to Armenia will never be complete without passing by at the heart of Yerevan, Republic Square. 500 dram. obtain a visa to enter the Republic Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY

One of the ancient monasteries which is hewn out from a cave.

Air Arabia country manager-Qatar Bikramjit Ghosh and other team members of the fam trip in Armenia. of Armenia up to 180 days per year. explore Armenia. The city is home along its shore. Lake Sevan has a The citizens of Qatar, Bahrain, to the grand Republic Square, while number of popular beaches and, The Sevan Bay and its surrounding mountains off er spectacular scenery. Kuwait and Oman can obtain climbing the Cascade to see the as the country has no coastline, Armenian entry visa. city’s monument to Soviet victory this is the best place in Armenia to Citizens of India, who have in the Second World War is a must. sunbathe, with Sevan Bay and its residence permit in Qatar, the UAE, Yerevan is a deeply historic city and surrounding mountains providing Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman can visiting the Armenian Genocide spectacular scenery. obtain Armenian entry visa also Memorial is a must to learn more The lake is considered to be one on the border of the Republic of about the nation’s troubled past. of the largest fresh water lakes in Armenia. Vernissage fl ea market is worth the world at an altitude of 1,897 If the tourists do not want to visiting too – it is open at the metres above sea level. use roaming during their stay in weekend – while a walk through Armenia, Armenian operators’ the Hrazdan gorge is also very Dilijan national park SIM cards can be purchased in any attractive. Much of what Armenia Armenia has four national parks book stall for 1,000 drams ($2). has to off er can be explored during and Dilijan national park may be Rates operators (Beeline, Orange, day trips from Yerevan, which is the most beautiful of the lovely VivaCell -MTC) are diff erent, but known as the City of Cafes. Yerevan quartet. The park, which was only on average we can say that one is also home to Blue Mosque, which established in 2002, is famous for minute of talk within Armenia will is the only mosque in the whole its medicinal mineral water springs, cost 20-30 drams ($0.04 – 0.06). of the country, as well as Levon’s as well as its natural monuments. Climate of Armenia is markedly Amazing Underground World, Many of Armenia’s more important continental. Summer is dry and which is one of Europe’s most cultural locations can be found Armenia’s mountainous scenery makes it ideal for winter sports. sunny, lasting from June to mid- unusual attractions. within the grounds of the park, September. Winter is short and such as Haghartsin Monastery, good tourist location in Armenia back to the fourth century, when quite cold with plenty of snow. In Shikahogh State Reserve Goshavank Monastery and Jukhtak where thousands of people visit it was founded by Gregory the the mountains, the average summer The second largest forest reserve Vank, as well as Matosavank every year. Illuminator. temperature ranges between in Armenia, Shikahogh State Monastery. The Aghestev and Getik +10 and +22C, and in the winter Reserve is so unspoiled that large river basins are also both within the Tsaghkadzor Geghard Monastery temperatures range between +2 and parts of it remain unexplored to boundaries of Dilijan national park. Armenia’s mountainous scenery It is a monastery which is hewn -14C. In plain lands the average this day. The forest is believed Dilijan is also a resort town makes it ideal for winter sports and out from a cave. The monastery had January temperature is -5C, and to be home to animals including with mild climate, fresh air in the the country’s best ski resort can be been originally named Ayrivank July temperature is +25C. leopards, bears, wild goats and northeast of Yerevan. It is famous found at Tsaghkadzor in the heart meaning the “the Monastery of the Armenia boasts some of Europe’s vipers and it is also thought that for its amazing surroundings, called of the country. Ski lifts are paid for Cave”. The monastery is included most stunning views, with the peak Shikahogh State Reserve has about the “Armenian Switzerland” by the by the ride and are among the most in the Unesco World Heritage list. of Mount Ararat dominating the 1,100 species of plants, although locals, due to the densely forested aff ordable in Europe. Tsaghkadzor The name commonly used for the country’s skyline. The mountain its fauna has not yet been fully valleys and mountains with alpine boasts some of the fi nest hotels in monastery today, Geghard, or more is Armenia’s national symbol explored. The reserve also has a meadows around. It is an excellent the country, while the resort also fully Geghardavank meaning the despite its peak lying just over the number of very beautiful waterfalls centre for walking. has one of the nation’s biggest Monastery of the Spear. Turkish border. Armenia is home to enjoy. entertainment centres in the to countless beautiful monasteries Noravank form of the Senator Royale casino Garni Pagan Temple and they are often found in areas of Lake Sevan Monasteries are one of Armenia’s complex. Tsaghkadzor also has the The temple was built by Armenian truly outstanding natural beauty. Lake Sevan, found in the heart defi ning characteristics and the Kecharis Monastery, which is one of King Tiridates and was dedicated Armenia’s capital, Yerevan, is one of Armenia, is the country’s example at Noravank is one of Armenia’s most important religious to the God of Sun Mithra. Garni of the most rapidly developing largest lake and a beautiful place the most beautiful in the whole complexes, dating back to the start is the only Hellenistic temple cities in the whole of Europe as to visit. The lake is surrounded country. Sheer brick-red cliff s of the 11th century. existing nowadays in Armenia. The the nation continues to embrace by some stunning monasteries shield the monastery, which was stairs of the temple are made huge tourism. – the most impressive of them built in the 13th century. Noravank Upper Azat Valley and high which means that every The following are some of the key being arguably the Sevanavank is famous for its Astvatsatsin (Holy The Upper Azat Valley is one of human being climbing up the stairs attractions in Armenia. Monastery – providing a glorious Mother of God) church; while the Armenia’s World Heritage Sites, is condescending to the God. The scenic backdrop to a relaxing story goes that the monastery partly due to the incredible Geghard place is attractive for the wonderful Yerevan trip. Windsurfi ng is among the was saved by God himself when Monastery for which the region is natural rocks, formed of regular By far the largest city in Armenia, recreation activities available at the Armenia was conquered by the most famous. The main chapel was cylinders. This composition is called the capital Yerevan is a great place lake, which also has a wide choice Mongols hundreds of years ago. built 800 years ago but the history “Symphony of Stones” which one to start for anyone wishing to of excellent seafood restaurants Noravank would be an extremely of the monastery goes all the way can fi nd anywhere else in the world. 6 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY Over 200 children compete in Yoga Championship for Students

The Indian Sports Centre (ISC) recently organised its first ever Yoga Championship for Students at inaugural address. The winners and Runners up in each category were: the Olive International School. The event served as a precursor to the International Day of Yoga on June 21. Under-14 Boys: Winner Habeeshan; 1st Runner-up Navin; 2nd Runner-up Bhuvan; and Consolation More than 200 children from Indian schools participated in five categories of the competitions. prize Christiano and Darshan. Captain Ravi Kumar, Defence Attaché at Embassy of India, was the chief guest. Ruth Norfolk, Under-14 Girls: Winner Samyukta; 1st Runner-up Shreyee; 2nd Runner-up Padala; and Consolation wife of the Canadian ambassador to Qatar, was the Guest of Honour and was also among the prize Riya and Maria. panel of judges. Other dignitaries included Indian Sports Centre President Nilangshu Dey, Hassan Under-19 Boys & Girls: Winner Abhay; 1st Runner-up Srobona; and 2nd Runner-up Akram Mohd. Chougule, M S Bukhari, Mohd Habibun Nabi, Nisha Agarwal, Ravi Shankar, Devis Edakulathur Seen here are the champions in each category along with the Chief Guest, Guest of Honour, ISC and Sunil Thakkar. M S Bukhari inaugurated the contest and encouraged the participants in his off icials and other dignitaries.

Doha artistes to perform in India

group of talented Qatar-based Indian artistes has been invited to present a musical drama at a mega cultural show to take place later this month in India. The artistes from ‘Doha Malayali Group’ will Apresent the show at the 9th Adoor Bhasi Television Award night to be held on June 29 in Trivandrum, India. The audience at the event includes leading celebrities from the Malayalam cinema and television industry as well as a large number of social and political leaders from Kerala. It is a very rare honour to get such invitations for the teams from the Gulf to present programmes at these highly acclaimed events. The team will be performing the musical ‘Thadaka, Enna Dravida Rajakumari,’ a programme based on a poem by popular Malayalam poet and writer Vayalar Ramavarma. The Nespresso introduces programme is directed by Latha Anand and choreographed by Susadima Susan. The team members are Kaveri Venugopal, Sreejith P Pillai, Ristretto Decaff einato Arya Suresh, Ambili Srijith, Anjana Lekhsmi, Mala Rahul, Navami Sivaprasad, Reshma Girish and Nayanendu Anand. The group has already given several performances of the Nespresso has launched Ristretto Decaff einato, promising a treat musical in Qatar on various occasions. for coff ee lovers. Intensely roasted and rich in flavour, Ristretto The programme will take place at the Victoria Jubilee Hall, Decaff einato has the same powerful character and contrasting Trivandrum at 5.30pm on June 29. taste as the much-loved original Ristretto, simply decaff einated. Nespresso “strives to off er inspiring coff ee moments throughout the day and its range of decaff einated coff ees is no exception with each one delivering a mirror image flavour profile of its caff einated counterpart.” The coff ee experts at Nespresso carefully created the latest launch with the rich aromatic notes of green coff ees in the blends being carefully preserved during the decaff eination process, which respects the coff ee bean’s true nature and which makes it possible to maintain the strength and richness of its aromas. The new Ristretto Decaff einato is the ideal relaxing treat for those who prefer to limit their caff eine but are looking for a powerful and rich sensory experience at any time of day. Ristretto Decaff einato joins the existing range of Nespresso decaff einated coff ees, each of which has been given a new distinguishable red ring around the capsule so they can be easily identified alongside other Grands Crus. The Decaff einato range comprises: Arpeggio Decaff einato, Volluto Decaff einato and Director of the team, Latha Anand. The team members. Vivalto Lungo Decaff einato. Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 7 COMMUNITY GU-Q student leadership programme celebrates first medal winners

he fi rst round of top achievers in building activities such as student clubs, the Hoya Leadership Pathway internships, honour council, sports, studying programme were honoured at an abroad, volunteering, research, and student awards ceremony at Georgetown employment. University in Qatar (GU-Q) They then submitted an application recently.T The new initiative seeks to recognise towards attaining one of the Hoya Leadership students who are actively engaged in the Pathway tiers – copper, bronze, silver, and university’s many co-curricular programmes gold – which each have specifi c minimum and leadership development opportunities. requirements. For example, to reach the Fifteen students met the programme’s silver tier, al-Hashemi had to complete a various level requirements, which include range of activities, then submit refl ection participating in various on- and off -campus papers, attend a coaching session, and join a activities, peer refl ection circles, and refl ection circle. leadership workshops. Graduating seniors “I was required to put into words some Sheba George (SFS ’17), Zarine Bohra (SFS things that I knew in my mind but had never ’17), Rania Sohail (SFS ’17), Sania Gesudraz had to express explicitly,” said al-Hashemi, (SFS ’17), and Thana El Sallabi (SFS ’17) speaking about the refl ection paper. “I’d were awarded gold level status, the highest The first batch of top achievers in the Hoya Leadership Pathway programme. never written anything similar before, so it accolade off ered by the programme. Alya al- was an interesting experience.” Hashemi (SFS ’17), Sena Kang (SFS ’18), and year students Aiza Khan (SFS ’20) and Ibtihal such powerful narratives for themselves,” Students who meet the criteria for the Alisha Kamran (SFS ’18) were awarded silver Mohamed (SFS ’20) were awarded copper said Sandy Kim, assistant director of student Hoya Leadership Pathway were honoured medals, while Normeanne Sison (SFS ’19), medals. leadership development at GU-Q. at a special award banquet at GU-Q, Sondos Moussa (SFS ’19), Sarah al-Mutoteh “I am very proud of all the students who To be recognised under the programme, and the seniors were presented with a (SFS ’20), Rafi a al-Jassim (SFS ’19), and Noor refl ected on their leadership experiences and GU-Q students needed to demonstrate commemorative pin which they could wear Sheikh (SFS ’20) achieved bronze status. First worked hard on their applications to create that they have participated leadership- on their robes on graduation.

QFIS art night draws a big crowd

The halls of Qatar Finland International School were awash with colour recently for their inaugural teachers also displayed their multiple talents in a choreographed performance of STOMP! Art and Culture night. Students from across grades 0-7 had contributed their artwork to be The Finnish curriculum places a great deal of importance on arts subjects as part of a holistic displayed for the visitors. approach to education. From an early age, students are encouraged to express themselves Sustainability was a key theme for the evening. Grade 2 made a map of Qatar from a range of in a variety of artistic mediums. Even students from the age of 6 are taught woodwork and bottle caps and Grade 3 made musical instruments from recycled bottles. A special workshop sophisticated crafts techniques. was also conducted in the gym, using recycled materials in creative ways to make a stunning art Minna Repo, pedagogical co-ordinator for QFIS, said: “We value art, not just as a tool for self- installation. A silent auction also created a stir, with many of the artworks finding a new home. It expression, but as a tool for life. Creative projects help students to think critically and solve was an incredible success, raising money for the school library. problems with innovative solutions. At QFIS, we strive to make learning more eff ective for students, Visitors were entertained with special performances by the winners of the school’s talent show and and events such as the art night are a great showcase for our approach.” 8 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY SPACE A new nerve centre As anticipation builds ahead of the Webb telescope’s October 2018 launch, Baltimore scientists are readying the facilities, equipment, software and personnel that will serve as its eyes and brain on Earth, writes Scott Dance

BIG NEWS: The James Webb is the biggest, boldest and riskiest space telescope ever made.

s the James Webb Space Institute engineers will hold the into space, preparations are will do that over and over again just already are brainstorming the Telescope looks toward reins, radioing instructions to the accelerating. The telescope’s mirror like rehearsals for a play. Everyone research they will be able to pursue the farthest reaches of telescope 1 million miles away and and instruments, constructed at has a part to play, and everyone has — watching the formation of young the universe, it will take downloading hundreds of gigabits Goddard over the past few years, to know their lines.” galaxies, probing around black direction from a glass- of data every day. will head soon to the Nasa Johnson Webb is the next-generation holes, searching for and exploring Aencased room of computer monitors “Two minutes after launch, it’ll Space Center in Houston for the telescope that has been in Earthlike planets. They are sharing that looks out on Baltimore’s leafy be the nerve centre,” said Joel Green, next phase of testing. planning since Hubble’s earliest their ideas with scientists at the Wyman Park. a project scientist in the institute’s A collaboration of Nasa, the days in space more than 25 years Baltimore institute, which will The images the observatory offi ce of public outreach. European Space Agency and the ago. Where Hubble, launched in co-ordinate the telescope’s order of beams back will be processed and For the institute, operated Canadian Space Agency, the 1990, dramatically transformed observations. shared with the world from offi ces for Nasa by the Association of telescope is to be launched from understanding of the universe and The start of that exploration is just down the hall and up the street. Universities for Research in French Guiana aboard a European its history, Webb is designed to see still about two years away. Once As anticipation builds ahead of Astronomy, the responsibility is Ariane 5 rocket. at far greater distances, and with Webb leaves Earth, it is scheduled the Webb telescope’s October 2018 heavy but familiar. From 1999 to In Baltimore, some of the last greater sensitivity and clarity. to take six months to unfold, reach launch, Baltimore scientists are 2006, it ran both Hubble’s scientifi c equipment and software needed for Scientists are hopeful Hubble its orbit, boot up and get aligned for readying the facilities, equipment, endeavours and its operations. In the launch arrived on the second will remain operational well into operation. software and personnel that will 2006, the control room moved down fl oor of the institute’s San Martin Webb’s mission, so that when the But given the complexity of the serve as its eyes and brain on Earth. the Baltimore-Washington Parkway Drive headquarters in January. new telescope discovers objects launch and the mission, crunch time Researchers at the Space Telescope to the Nasa Goddard Space Flight Scientists are busy testing them and of interest, Hubble can follow is already arriving for the institute’s Science Institute on the edge of the Center in Greenbelt. learning how they will use them in along. Working together, with crew. Johns Hopkins University campus With less than a year and a half the big moments to come. their complementary designs and About 150 people in Baltimore will guide the process of deciding to go before Webb’s honeycomb- “We’re conducting rehearsals strengths, the two telescopes are are expected to staff the launch. where to point the telescope and shaped mirror and tennis court- as though it was launch day,” said expected to again rewrite astronomy One hundred will remain based in what to study, as they now do for the sized sun shield are folded up, Rusty Whitman, fl ight operations books. the fl ight operations centre and Hubble Space Telescope. loaded onto a rocket and hurled system engineering manager. “We Astronomers around the world adjoining control rooms 24 hours Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 9 E AGE COMMUNITY

a day, seven days a week during Webb’s six-month commissioning, Whitman said. That requires training a lot of people. The institute employs about 700, spread across its headquarters, its offi ces at Hopkins’ Physics and Astronomy Building across San Martin Drive and at the Stieff Silver Building and the Rotunda in Hampden. “We cross-train a lot of people,” Whitman said. “We have at least one backup, if not more, for each role.” If anyone leaves their job, the scientists will have to get someone new up to speed quickly. But most are so dedicated to the long-awaited mission and eager to see it through, Whitman said, that “turnover is not usually a big problem.” Testing is already underway to ensure there is no diffi culty communicating with the Deep Space Network, Nasa’s set of 230-foot-tall antennas in California, Spain and Australia. The network will be in constant communication with Webb during its commissioning. It will eventually cut that contact down to two four- hour exchanges each day. The institute is also readying for the masses of data Webb will send back, with plans to store the information in basement servers while exploring other big data solutions, Green said. It performed a similar function HOLDING FORT: Joel Green, an astrophysicist, talks about how the James Webb Space Telescope works as he stands next to a model of it in Baltimore in April at for Hubble from 1999 to 2006. This the James Webb Space Telescope flight control room at the Space Telescope Science Institute. It is where scientists will launch commands to the telescope once it time around, Webb will transmit reaches space in late 2018 and early 2019. The telescope is the successor to the Hubble Space Telescope and is expected to give new views of and insights into the hundreds of times more data. early universe. Eric Smith, programme director for Nasa, said the space agency decided years ago to locate the primary mission operations centre Webb is the next-generation telescope that has been in planning since at the Baltimore institute for Hubble’s earliest days in space more than 25 years ago. Where Hubble, reasons of effi ciency. “The idea was to have the end-to- launched in 1990, dramatically transformed understanding of the universe end missions operations within one organisation … to streamline things and its history, Webb is designed to see at far greater distances, and with and reduce costs,” he wrote in an e-mail. greater sensitivity and clarity The institute’s past leaders have downplayed the importance of hosting the control centre. When it was shifted south to Goddard in 2006, Bruce Margon, then the institute’s associate director for science, told The Baltimore Sun the move was of “essentially no signifi cance.” Given the speed and ease of electronic communication, there is less of a case for combining Webb’s scientifi c and operational headquarters than there was with Hubble, said Robert Williams, the institute’s director from 1993 to 1998. But it is still easier when in-person meetings are required, he said. “We spend an awful lot of time on the parkway between here and Goddard,” Williams said. Other scientists said it will be valuable to have the engineers guiding the telescope and the astronomers using it in the same place. After all, for the engineers, Whitman said, “their whole reason to be here is to support the science.” And there is also symbolic meaning. “It feels like the heartbeat of JWST will be in the building,” Summers said. —The Baltimore Sun/ TNS 10 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Simple steps to create the perfect outdoor oasis ummer is home to many of couch or the dining room table. Your sun, and when guests need a break the year’s most beautiful outdoor space needs a similar location from the heat, it’s good to provide days, so who can blame and a dining set naturally invites an area of relief. Umbrellas are an you for wanting to spend guests to relax. Five-piece dining aff ordable option, providing ample them all outside? Your yard sets from Lowe’s are perfect for more coverage for a large gathering. And becomesS your living room and your intimate gatherings, while seven- to keep the awning a hot destination patio the kitchen. It’s your home away piece sets comfortably accommodate into the evening, look for an umbrella from home, which begs the question larger crowds. outfi tted with LED lights. – do you like your current digs? If your home’s outdoor space The focal point of your kitchen The perfect accents lacks the comfort and appeal you Grilling out is a staple of any The diff erence between a backyard are longing for, don’t worry. Now is summer party, so if your existing grill and an outdoor oasis is in the details the perfect time to transform your isn’t hitting all cylinders, it’s time for you add to your space. Good quality backyard into the perfect outdoor an upgrade. torches bring light to any situation. oasis you can enjoy all summer long. With durable metal construction To get started upgrading your A place to relax and a long-lasting fi breglass wick, backyard without breaking the bank The sofas and armchairs in your these lights will keep their look in any – follow these tips from the experts living room are popular sitting conditions. To add a little extra green at Lowe’s. destinations during any indoor space to your outdoor entertaining event, and you can create the same area, consider purchasing raised A place to gather environment outdoors with sectional garden beds. They provide a grand Think of the parties you’ve hosted patio furniture. ambiance upgrade to your oasis at an in your home. They’ve likely all had aff ordable price. a common gathering place such as A little shade goes a long way the kitchen counter, the living room An all-day party means plenty of ©Brandpoint

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

You have the sensitivity to pick up on what’s going on in every The fantasy world that you’ve built for yourself is a pleasure, Taurus. It may be diff icult to stay grounded today with all the information situation today, Aries. Powerful emotions may conflict with People frolic in it and have a grand time. Your presence delights flying around and all the emotion roiling in your heart. Try not to extremely strong opinions. Welcome to the battle between the head people. Today, however, this world may be threatened by harsh take things too seriously, Gemini. This is the key to maintaining a and the heart! On this day you may be more apt to side with the realities that are coming in the form of electronic information. This level head today. Approach the day with passion and take care of heart. Realise that this arena is heated and that the forces around force is powerful and apt to be erratic and spontaneous. Be prepared any investigative work that needs doing. There are important facts you are extremely stubborn. to stand your ground. coming from unexpected sources. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

You may be pushed around by two very powerful camps today, You’re apt to feel a bit wilder today, Leo. There’s a wave of powerful A good tactic today would be to convert your fears to motivation Cancer. Since you’re the kind, diplomatic, and sensitive type, you energy working to strengthen your ego and self-confidence. Use this for positive action. You have a great deal of energy at your disposal, make the perfect target for the more abrasive and opinionated. boost to the best of your ability. You will need it. There is a strong, Virgo. Don’t waste it. Be aware that it’s one of those situations You may want to side with the cold, hard facts presented to you, fact-oriented force working to combat your aims, and you will find when the smallest comment or insult may set off a chain reaction although there is a great deal of emotional power working to stir up that it’s equally powerful and stubborn. Cut through the fantasy and of misinformation. People are emotionally charged, so be careful the pot. Things may not be as clear as they seem at first glance. uncover the truth. where you step. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

You’re likely to be faced with conflicting reports today, Libra. You may be seduced by fantastic promises that off er wonderful People are apt to be quite emotional when it comes to the image Information may be tainted with emotion, so be careful about going rewards. Beware of lots of bells and whistles, Scorpio. There may they wish to project today, Sagittarius. Be careful where you step. It’s with the choice that shouts the loudest. You may get pigeonholed be a great deal of talk but not much to substantiate such wonderful your job to see through the trendy makeup and fashion that hide the into a place you don’t want to be in. Heed the internal warnings you claims. Don’t be surprised if people with intense emotions are true personalities of the people who insist on wearing these masks. pick up. This is a good day to work and play with passion. Take care stepping up to add their opinions about how you should run your The key is to not be fooled by those who hide behind a facade built of any investigative work that needs to be done. life. Don’t forget who’s boss. by society. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

Capricorn, don’t be surprised if some of your fantasies and dreams You’re at an emotionally climactic point now, Aquarius, and you Be careful to not be too cavalier today, Pisces. It would be wise to are put on trial by a harsh force that cuts right to the truth of the might find that harsh opposition is coming at you for no clear adopt a more serious tone than usual. You might be inclined to say matter. People may be extra passionate, and most aren’t going to be reason. There’s a stubborn, strong force surrounding you, and you words carelessly, but people are going to take you literally. Make impressed with unrealistic plans. You can try your normal approach should be aware that the more rigid your viewpoint, the harder it will sure you mean what you say. Your attention to fashion and pop of simply ramming straight ahead with your plans, but a better be for any resolution. Compromise is an essential element of the day. culture may conflict with a force that’s asking you to focus on things approach might be to think first and be more strategic. of deeper spiritual value. 12 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe Bed Time

BARBED DAUBED NUMBED BOBBED FIBBED PROBED BOMBED GARBED RIBBED BRIBED GRABBED ROBBED CLUBBED JABBED RUBBED COMBED LOBBED SOBBED CUBED LOBED WEBBED DABBED NABBED

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

Garfield Puzzles courtesy: Puzzlechoice.com courtesy: Puzzles

Sudoku

Bound And Gagged

Sudoku is a puzzle based on a 9x9 grid. The grid is also divided into nine (3x3) boxes. You are given a selection of values and to complete the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that every column, every anone is repeated. Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1. Poor dad being caught by a 1. The spilling of beer was on a fish got the child screaming previous occasion (6) (3,5) 2. Carry into the river or swamp 5. Shares the punishment (6) (6) 9. Fights with, but won’t march 3. Break the one Peter’s driven with (5,3) round in (7) 10. He named the visitor (6) 4. Florist’s answer to ‘What’s 12. Get back the lost earring yours?’ (4) minus its central piece (6) 6. Nonsense! There’s little time 13. To cut it short, it’s not for the to dawdle, anyhow! (7) stupid (8) 7. People close in are worried 15. Somebody else for you (6,6) about the vacancy (8) 18. Annoyed at being unable to 8. The soldier’s delighted about see yourself in the bathroom the new gear (8) mirrors?(3,7,2) 11. Is touchingly affectionate (7) 23. Um .... what did you say to 14. Tries to find the reverse of Answers the person obstructing your ‘furies’ (7) view? (3,2,3) 16. The fellow finished only to 24. A tiny tick (6) collapse (4,4) Wordsearch Codeword 26. How the incorrigibly 17. Hot and bothered, hang narcissistic try to become about to get the garments (8) less so? (6) 19. Increases the number of 27. Pulls through and swathes singers (7) round again? (8) 20. Have one make something to 28. As a sweetener, brought back wear (7) port (6) 21. They ensure that the drawers 29. Mean by outrageous means don’t wobble about (6) to get something to eat (8) 22. Why? Because Nero is frisking about (6) 25. Is she spoiling Selina? (4)

Yesterday’s Solutions

Across: 1 Carried on 6 Basil Down: 1 Craft 2 Responses 3 9 Asses 10 Totalling 11 Took Institutes 4 Ditches 5 Natural it hard 12 Deal 14 Tissues 15 6 Bill 7 Shine 8 Legalised 13 Litters 17 Austere 19 Barmaid Sternwards 14 Transport 16 20 Sack 22 The low-down 25 Elaborate 18 Exhumed 19 Odd-jobman 26 React 27 Tired Balance 21 Cider 23 Natal 24 28 Dress well. Told. 14 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY REVIEWS The Great Wall defies expectations

featuring Damon, director Zhang bad. They have a queen, and she’s By Katie Walsh Yimou and a screenplay about hungry, all the time. Chinese folklore credited to a Damon plays William, a Western team of Hollywood screenwriters mercenary with a garbled accent he buzz on The Great including Ed Zwick and Tony (is it Scottish? Irish? Is that a hint Wall has been less Gilroy. of Spanish?), who, in searching for excitement and more The Great Wall opens with some “black powder,” is taken prisoner puzzlement and fun facts about the wall – it’s 5,500 by an impressively costumed army controversy. What miles long, it took 1,700 years to at the wall, and ends up fi ghting projectT required Matt Damon to build (which doesn’t bode well alongside them, much to the chagrin rock that man bun for years? Why for other potential walls of this of his pal Tovar (Pedro Pascal). does the poster for a movie called ilk), and there are lots of legends. There’s a lot of fun to be found The Great Wall (as in China) have a This is just one of them, and it here. Zhang’s visual signatures are Western mavericking (Pascal poised, talented, a great ponytail. huge picture of a white guy on it? involves Matt Damon fi ghting present: audacious colour design, actually bullfi ghts one of the She’s a platonic equal to William, All is now revealed, and The Great space dinosaurs off the Great Wall. billowing fabrics, dizzying camera monsters). and in this world, there’s no reason Wall defi es any expectations – it’s China loves monsters (the highest work, high-fl ying acrobatics. After the fi rst act, it’s a bit women can’t be warriors. absolutely bonkers wild. grossing fi lms in China to date are The initial display by the Chinese downhill, focusing less on The period-fantasy genre allows The Chinese fi lm market The Mermaid and Monster Hunt), so army is so impressive – giant impressive army manoeuvres for representations, metaphors is increasingly infl uential in monsters they’ll have. crossbows operated by soldiers and more on rote interpersonal and messages that are currently Hollywood, with Chinese fi nancing It’s like the battle for Helm’s in dazzling crimson; drummers motivations coupled with silly relevant, about the benefi ts fl owing to a diverse array of Deep in Lord of the Rings, but with whipping commands into war skins schemes involving magnets and of cultural interchange – the US projects, and studio fi lms hordes of slobbering reptilian with blue tassels; a high-fl ying hot air balloons. But when it controlled order of the Chinese increasingly catering to the tastes hyenas with T-Rex heads instead brigade of cerulean-armoured, comes to heroics, The Great Wall is army meets the individualistic of Chinese audiences, resulting in of orcs. They were delivered to spear-throwing female warriors refreshingly egalitarian. Damon’s fi ghter, and they’re stronger more action, more spectacle, more northern China via meteor, and – that the interlopers just watch character is less “white saviour” together – but also about ruthlessly humour. The Great Wall seems like they attack every 60 years as a in awe. Of course, they can’t help and more “white helper,” with Lin unchecked greed, and the fallible a real US-China co-production, reminder that unchecked greed is but eventually butt in with their (Tian Jing) emerging as our hero – nature of walls. — TNS The return of Vin Diesel Deepika Padukone; Aussie personality DJ/party boy (Wu) whose only special skill is By Katie Walsh Ruby Rose; Chinese singer/actor Kris Wu; to drop sick beats. Fortunately, one of their British UFC champ Michael Bisping; Game missions is at a beach rave. of Thrones favourite Rory McCann; and The charismatic Rose brings the sex appeal, ilm scholar Tom Gunning Brazilian soccer phenom Neymar. Even delivering snarky one-liners and sniping bad coined the phrase “cinema of the incredible Toni Collette turns up for guys, and her presence is refreshing. But the attractions” to describe the crying out loud (she’s fantastic). With this fi lm’s negotiations of gender and sexuality earliest, exhibitionist impulses of cast, Xander Cage is the least interesting are complicated at best. Rose, Padukone and fi lmmaking, bits of spectacle that person on screen. The story is, as Collette’s Collette play empowered, fi erce women, Fcalled attention to their own visibility and cutthroat CIA operative Jane Marke equals to their male counterparts. xXx even technological craft. Pure spectacle has since succinctly puts it, “very bad guys, very passes the Bechdel test. But that progressive been subsumed into narrative fi lmmaking, bad thing.” Marke coaxes unconventional streak bumps up against the hormonal but the cinema of attractions is always former special ops agent Xander Cage teenage boy instincts that the fi lm can’t present, especially in modern action movies, (Diesel), out of retirement to pursue a group shake, the camera repeatedly scanning female and there may be no greater current example of bandits who have stolen a “Pandora’s torsos, Xander grunting lascivious words of of this than xXx: The Return of Xander Cage. Box” device with the capability of dropping seduction. It’s cheesy, and not sexy in the Though there have been three fi lms in the satellites out of orbit, making them crash least; in xXx, the stunts eclipse the sex. series, star Vin Diesel skipped out on the into the earth like bombs. He’s a member The appeal of this fi lm lies in its outlandish second instalment. He’s back, turning the of the “xXx Program,” helmed by Augustus action, innovative stunt spectacle to the movie into a Vin Diesel fi lm, which is a genre Gibbons (Samuel L. Jackson, always extreme, defying all laws of nature, physics unto itself. D.J. Caruso is the director; Diesel wrangling groups of heroes), and catching and logic. Xander skis through a jungle and the auteur. He’s hit on a formula that just these bandits requires his singular skill. catches waves on an ocean-going motorbike. works for him: muscles, babes, and feats of The script by F. Scott Frazier is sparse and He dives headfi rst out of a cargo plane. But vehicular derring-do performed alongside a self-refl ective about its formula. The punch despite Diesel’s best eff orts, wushu master mix of diverse global superstars. lines are mostly silly, sometimes funny, but Yen swipes this movie right out from under For xXx, Diesel is surrounded by when Xander starts opining about extreme his prodigious pecs. If watching Donnie Yen action superstars from around the world, stunts, it tips over into unintentionally get barrelled on a surf-bike is wrong, to hell including the current king of Hong Kong hilarious territory. with being right. — TNS action cinema Donnie Yen; Thai martial He assembles an equally off beat band of arts star Tony Jaa, known for the Ong Bak misfi ts for his team: a driver (McCann), a DVD courtesy: franchise; as well as Bollywood superstar sniper (Rose), and for some inane reason, a Saqr Entertainment Stores, Doha Thursday, June 8, 2017 GULF TIMES 15 HOLLYWOOD COMMUNITY Spacey brings Clarence Darrow to Ashe Stadium plotting the stadium’s transformation. In the London shows, Spacey strolled up and down aisles as Darrow, engaging audience members, divvying them up into juries for his famous cases — Scopes, the Pullman strikes, the Leopold and Loeb murder. “We wanted to break down the barrier between performer and audience, to make it a genuinely shared experience,” says Sharrock. That goal remains. A round stage about 22 feet in diameter will be erected on the court, surrounded by 600 seats, with pathways and stairs that will allow Spacey to get closer to the crowd. Audience members can also occupy the stadium’s courtside and loge levels, even the luxury suites (but not the nosebleed upper deck) and video screens will project the onstage action just like at a sporting event, As for the new retractable roof, which debuted last year? It’ll be closed, says Zausner, so there’ll be no need to check the weather forecast.

New look, new uses SPOTLIGHT: Kevin Spacey seen here on stage at the 22nd Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles this year, This theatrical experiment is the fi rst of may be as fond of Darrow, the civil rights and criminal defence attorney who became a legend a century ago, as he is of tennis. many ways in which the USTA, now in the fi nal stages of its $550 million renovation of Arthur “I’m bigger than a little yellow ball, and I small, he notes. Ashe and the surrounding tennis centre, is By Jospeh V Amodio don’t move nearly as fast.” But then, there he was at Arthur Ashe two hoping to diversify the kinds of events that years ago at the US Open, “and I suddenly take place there. Last month, Arthur Ashe The man, the myth went — ‘wait a minute,’ “ he recalls, slowly hosted graduation ceremonies for FIT, John evin Spacey is a huge tennis buff . Spacey may be as fond of Darrow, the civil looking from left to right, as if in the stands Jay College and The New School, and they’re “A nut,” he readily admits, rights and criminal defence attorney who again, then pointing. “Drama happens in this considering other options, like hosting music noting he plays the game and became a legend a century ago, as he is of court all the time.” festivals, says Zausner. attends matches at every tennis. The US Open attracts a wide range of opportunity. He fi rst slipped into the legal eagle’s Starting from the ground up viewers, he explains, from hardcore tennis KBut in less than two weeks — and just days suspenders in the 1991 TV movie Darrow, After presenting the idea to US Tennis fans to folks who’ve never picked up a racket. after hosting the Tony Awards broadcast — then again with the Old Vic Theatre Association offi cials, Spacey toured the facility “Now this Clarence Darrow event opens us up when the two-time Oscar winner and House Company in London (where he was artistic last fall. And made quite an impression. to a whole other audience who may have never of Cards star steps into the centre of Arthur director) in a 2009 production of “Inherit “He started climbing all over the place, to been here before,” he says. Ashe Stadium, home to the US Open, he the Wind” (which depicts the Scopes get a feel from a logistical standpoint of what As for Spacey, he’s just happy to be able to won’t be fl aunting his forehand or backhand, Monkey trial, and Darrow’s defence of a man everyone’s perspective would be watching a remind people of Darrow. or rushing the net. He’ll be serving up arrested for teaching evolution). He later show,” says Daniel Zausner, chief operating “He had a brilliant, homespun logic and drama. starred in David W Rintels’ Clarence Darrow, offi cer of the USTA Billie Jean King National humor that I think made him very endearing,” Spacey has dreamed up a fi rst for Arthur directed by Thea Sharrock at the Old Vic in Tennis Center. says Spacey, noting how Darrow defended Ashe, transforming the stadium in Flushing 2014 and in an encore performance in 2015. Sharrock was also on hand for the tour. 102 men against the death penalty. “And not a into a theatre-in-the-round for a special That was a one-man show staged in the “He’s just so … ,” she starts, then chuckles. single one hanged.” two-nights-only performance of his round — neither of which he’d done before. “He’s so confi dent and willing to try new This means he was able to convince both acclaimed one-man show, Clarence Darrow. “There was nowhere to hide,” he says, things. And so innately curious, both as a man juries and judges “that no-one should die, “As crazy as this idea was, it struck me that smiling. “I really liked it.” and as a performer.” that we should have mercy,” says Spacey. “In in the worst seat in the house people pay good Spacey decided he wanted to bring the Over the last few months, set, lighting and a world of … increasingly diffi cult confl ict, money to watch a little yellow ball go 120mph production to the United States. But where? sound designers plucked from the concert dividedness, anger, misunderstanding, across the court,” says Spacey, sitting in an Theatres built “in the round” — like the NYCB world — who, unlike most theatre pros, have violence … his is a really, really valuable voice offi ce near Times Square to review his plans. Theatre at Westbury — are hard to fi nd, or too experience in sports arenas — have been to hear right now.” —Newsday l don’t take stardom madness that you guys (media and blockbusters like Ek Tha Tiger and seriously: Salman common people) call stardom so Bajrangi Bhaijaan, said he was aware seriously? I don’t.” their styles were diff erent. Superstar Salman Khan says The Dabangg star, who has “Our understanding of fi lms he lives his life in the present and launched e-cycles under his Being is very diff erent. His approach does not take his celebrity status Human brand, spoke on how diffi cult is more realistic, he comes from seriously. it was for him to play an innocent boy documentary fi lmmaking. On the Asked what he wants to achieve in his upcoming fi lm Tubelight. other hand, I am into commercial in life, Salman told the media: “I live “(The) character in the fi lm took Bollywood. Perhaps that is why when my life moment to moment. If I can me back to my school days. Sohail these two meet, a new style is born.” make this moment the best one, I and I used to recollect so many However, he said he won’t work know I will get something out of it... memories of our childhood... Playing with Kabir if a script is not good. “As an actor I’m doing my job. an innocent and pure character at an Talking about the success of Aamir The persona you are seeing on age when you are no more innocent, Khan’s Dangal, Salman said: “As long screen is a contribution of more when you have experienced the as no-one is losing their money, I am than 100 people from the diff erent corrupt world, was quite a task.” happy. If the audience loves the fi lm, departments like camera, make- Salman, who has previously I am happy.” Tubelight releases on up and lights. How can I take that collaborated with Kabir Khan in June 25. — IANs COOL: Salman Khan. 16 GULF TIMES Thursday, June 8, 2017 COMMUNITY ‘Troll Cakes’ off er sweet revenge for victims of online harassment Almost half of all Internet users in the US have been victims of cyberbullying. One woman has devised a plan for people to get one up on social media bullies: cakes

By Stephanie Ott

orry you’re such a hateful person Beth” and “you donkey witch” are just some of the“S unusual messages that can be read in colourful lettering on Kat Thek’s cakes. The New Yorker came up with her Troll Cakes Bakery and Detective Agency as an answer to people who harass others online. People who receive nasty online comments can send a screengrab of the insult to Thek, together with the troll’s address, and she ices it onto a chocolate cake together with sprinkles, edible flowers and butterflies and posts it to the offender. “Cakes are often part of celebrations like birthdays and weddings. Decorating them with horrible comments transforms anger into pleasure,” the California-born 30-year-old says. One cake costs 35 dollars and can be posted to the person’s home or work address. If a customer doesn’t know the offender’s address, Thek herself will track it down for 60 dollars. A month after she launched Troll Cakes, baking in the evenings and on weekends around her full-time job as a copywriter, she has already sent around 50 Anyone who has received a nasty insult online can send a screengrab to Kat Thek and her Troll Cakes Bakery and Detective Agency and she will track down cakes, and orders are increasing. the bully and send them a cake with their hateful comments iced onto it. Her other bizarre projects include selling pills made out of the special, though a White House “It’s incomprehensible to cat hair, making bouquets out of spokeswoman says the president me that somebody would do objects other than flowers, and has not received any of them. something like that,” he says. fortune-telling with used wax During the election campaign, “Why would a victim of bullying strips. Melania Trump said that she spend money on it? Cake is One of the recipients of her troll would make online bullying a delicious, it’s like celebrating cakes is the resident of possibly focal point of her work as first bullying.” the most famous address in the lady. Many online trolls think they United States: the White House, Since the election however, she can hide their real identities 1,600 Pennsylvania Avenue, has made no further mention of behind pseudonyms, says Washington DC. it – just as well, perhaps, as her Hinduja. “But you also see a lot “Anyone who uses the Internet work would run the risk of being of hate on social networks like is now familiar with online constantly undermined by her Facebook where trolls use their harassment,” says Thek. “Above husband. real names and identities. It’s a all that’s thanks to Donald Trump, But online harassment is an disgrace that some people take because our president trolls everyday problem. Almost half of pleasure in being nasty to others.” people like Rosie O’Donnell.” all Internet users in the US have Currently Thek only delivers Trump is well known experienced it at some point, within the US but she says that for attacking and insulting according to a study by New York- if Marine Le Pen had won the O’Donnell, an actress and TV based research centre Data and French election she would have presenter. Indeed, the president Society. considered opening a bakery in regularly launches Twitter tirades the only reply the White House his hands are unusually small – Sameer Hinduja, a professor of France. against Democrats, department has made is “the president’s allowing the customer to choose criminology at Florida Atlantic And she’s also keeping an eye stores, celebrities, television tweets speak for themselves.” their favourite Trump tweet and University and co-director of the on Germany’s polls. “If anybody shows and the media. Thek offers a “Tiny Hands have it posted on a cake to the Cyberbullying Research Centre, like Trump came to power in And despite ever increasing Special” – a reference to Trump’s White House. is rather sceptical about Thek’s Germany, there would be German criticism of his social media use, famous sensitivity to being told So far she has had four orders for bakery however. troll cakes too,” she says. -DPA