Community Community Birdwatchers Blind and flock to Malta, visually P7the only EU P16 impaired country allowing football fans in wild bird hunting, Germany can still enjoy to watch out matches thanks to for rule breakers. tailored commentaries.

Friday, June 22, 2018 Shawwal 8, 1439 AH

DOHA 33°C—42°C TODAY PUZZLES 12 & 13 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 14

COVER Does Ramadan end with Eid? Not quite. A doctor’s STORY prescription for a healthy and rewarding life. P2-3 2 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY COVER STORY On the good trail post-Ramadan PRAYER TIME Fajr 3.15am Ramadan has come to a close for another year, but that Shorooq (sunrise) 4.44am Zuhr (noon) 11.36am Asr (afternoon) 2.58pm doesn’t mean we have to leave everything behind. It’s time Maghreb (sunset) 6.58pm Isha (night) 7.58pm for us to become proactive on how we are going to maintain USEFUL NUMBERS the ‘Ramadan lifestyle’, suggests Dr Sakir Thurempurath

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ote Unquo Qu te Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to very year, the holy month of Ramadan has come to a close for win or lose. Ramadan furnishes us with another year, but that doesn’t mean — Lyndon B. Johnson the opportunity to eliminate we have to leave everything behind. detrimental eating forms Depending on how your month has gone, and gives our overburdened you may have picked up some healthy Edigestive systems a much needed break. habits, or you may have adopted some During this blessed month, the rituals unhealthy ones. It’s time for us to become of fasting, night prayer and reading the proactive on how we are going to maintain Holy Qur’an, purifi cation of wealth the ‘Ramadan lifestyle’. by Zakah on a daily basis can have a Community Editor transformational eff ect on our whole Here’s what to consider keeping beyond sense of well-being and contentment. the fasting month. Kamran Rehmat Many people do not benefi t from it e-mail: [email protected] and do not take this opportunity to purify z Having breakfast regularly Telephone: 44466405 their body, mind and soul. Most people fi ll Breakfast is the most important meal Fax: 44350474 their dining tables with unhealthy foods of the day. It is the brain meal. Waking that contain a large amount of sugar and up early to eat ‘Suhoor’ has (hopefully) The author. fat. prompted you to choose more nutrient- Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 3 COVER STORY COMMUNITY dense and fi lling foods to fuel you throughout your fast. Having oatmeal, whole grains and complex carbohydrates and low glycemic index foods are the best way to stave off hunger. Keep it: Make time in the morning to have a meal, and make it a healthy one. People who eat breakfast are also less likely to overeat and choose unhealthy foods later in the day.

z Intermittent fasting Intermittent fasting will be continued if we abstain from overeating or avoid dinner at night and when we depend on light food at night. It will give some 12-14 hours of time to utilise the stored fat and glucose. It has huge health benefi ts including increasing insulin sensitivity.

z Taking a break from the gym and daily exercise It’s hard to work out while fasting, and even tougher to get in a sweat before 3am or after 8pm. But our anatomy needs exercise; it helps to fi ght depression, obesity and chronic diseases and is an all-in-one remedy MODERATION: Recent studies show that dates have action on satiety centre in brain to decrease the appetite. But in increased quantities it is glucose rich for most of the metabolic health food. Use it moderately, better at the start of the day to decrease the appetite. issues. Kick it: If you fell out of your can agree that the most memorable at Iftar. These snacks increase the recent statistics of Hamad Medical a sweet tooth and must have dessert fi tness routine during Ramadan, part of these meals was the company level of cholesterol and sugar in your Corporation, a large number of Qatari after meals, have three dates instead get back into it as soon as possible. and conversation. Eating with family body. This will increase the risk of and expatriate population are at risk of a dense, nutrition-defi cit piece Start working out two to three times and friends is a great way to share life threatening diseases, including of developing kidney diseases. So try of chocolate cake. Dry fruit can be a a week in gym or do some exercise food and reconnect with one another. cardiovascular complaints, diabetes, to drink 2 to 4 litres of water regularly daily food of single time with enough for 30 minutes at least 5 days a week Keep it: Try to eat at the table hypertension, etc. to avoid dehydration. During this water. and then increase the frequency for more often with your family. Take the diffi cult summer where temperatures optimal health and life. initiative to regularly invite guests to z Keeping spirituality can soar anywhere between z Avoid bad habits your home for dinner. Bonding over We have gone through a training 45-53degree centigrade, consuming Abstain from smoking and z Eating dates before a meal food is an ancient art that never gets session for control of body and soul. 6-8 litres of water may be in order. other bad habits. Fasting requires We all know how luxurious a date old. It’s benefi cial to keep up the soul abstinence from smoking as well as tastes after a long fast. But did you foods such as empathy, kindness, z Frequent foods eating and drinking during the day, know that eating fruits like these z Trying healthy foods taqwa (piety), strength of mind, Frequent intake of foods that and the month of Ramadan provided can also help to start the digestion One of the best parts of Ramadan helpfulness which favours the easy we followed during the nights of an ideal opportunity for smokers to process and moderate how much we is diversifying your own menu and pleasant life. Ramadan can be continued in its quit. Keep away the strength attained eat during a meal? Recent studies by learning about other cultures expanded way of taking 6-8 times of and never give up. show that dates have action on through food. This year, I discovered z Drinking plenty of water frequent and light and unprepared Keep it: Once Ramadan is over, satiety centre in brain to decrease frozen roti skins in my supermarket For weeks, we tried to stay food. if you are a smoker, do not give in to the appetite. But in increased and easy-to-make Indian masalas. hydrated through long, hot days of the temptation of having a cigarette quantities it is glucose rich food. The result was – and still is – truly fasting. Having several cups of water z Eat dried fruits after meals. Continue to replace Use it moderately, better at the start delicious. during Suhoor and Iftar never felt Keep eating those dried fruits that this addictive and toxic habit with of the day to decrease the appetite. Keep it: Changing things up repels like enough to me, and I found myself you made a habit of eating during healthier ones such as exercise. Keep it: Dates and fruits are boredom and helps to challenge us shunning other kinds of liquids in Ramadan. It prevents over eating and delicious any time of the year! in the kitchen, so keep exploring the favour of a cold glass of water. helps early satiety. Establish and maintain the Substitute them with other varieties wide world of food and move towards Keep it: Not only does water Keep it: Dried dates and fi gs are virtuous things accomplished; of fresh fruit for more vitamins and the health side. Food should be for prevent dehydration; it also helps both excellent source of iron, fi bre It is important that the rewards of minerals. body than for taste buds. keep skin clear, aids in digestion, and antioxidants that protect against the month should not slip away. It is Kick it: Many people are always and is generally the healthiest harmful free radicals, which are possible only with z Late-night eating interested in eating oil fried foods liquid we can consume. As per the associated with ageing. If you have 1. Prayers In some parts of the world, 2. Make it a habit. Keep in mind Muslims have had to fast until 9pm that any habit can be changed/ and Suhoor are late-night dinners altered/given up by following a which has become a part of our disciplined regimen for three weeks. lifestyles. And let’s not even get 3. Think about the day every night into the tarawih snacking? Eating 4. Evaluate yourself weekly late at night can be hard on the 5. Start and maintain good habits digestive system and may lead to with the knowledge and help of overeating, which is never a good friends. thing. Better to reduce the late night 6. If you’ve committed a mistake, foods, avoid heavy food at night to don’t lose the plot. a minimum. It will give proper rest 7. Work your way up slowly to gastrointestinal system and allow 8. Don’t expect same result always body to utilise the stored fat and glucose. Light foods like fresh juices It’s always diffi cult to say goodbye and salads are preferred. to Ramadan, but refl ecting on some Kick it: To know that you can have of the good and bad habits that we many meals in reduced quantities adopted can help us to lead better and a day, ease back into eating dinner healthier lives. Remember that our earlier in the evening. Give yourself a body has rights over us. Always keep couple of hours to let your stomach the good routine which is procured relax before going to bed. Your body through the holy month in your life. will thank you. Here’s to a healthy and happy life!

z Having communal meals z The author is an Associate Whether you hosted or ADVISORY: As per the recent statistics of Hamad Medical Corporation, a large number of Qatari and expatriate Specialist - Family Medicine at Aster attended Iftar this month, many of us population are at risk of developing kidney diseases. So try to drink 2 to 4 litres of water regularly to avoid dehydration. Medical Centre, Al Rayyan 4 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY BODY & MIND

RELIABLE: Plant-based diet lowered the cholesterol, lost weight and lowered HbA1c levels of people under study. Vegan diets may help diabetes patients lant-based diets can be are low in saturated fat, rich in Medicine in Washington DC. who do not have diabetes. weight, lowered HbA1c levels, and benefi cial for diabetes phytochemicals, high in fi bre and “The good news is that this For the study, published in improved other cardio metabolic as a new study has often rich in low-glycaemic fruits study shows that the same simple the journal Clinical Nutrition, risk factors when compared to found that it may and vegetables. prescription. Eating a plant- the researchers reviewed nine those who ate a non-vegetarian improve glycaemic “The link between diabetes and based diet can reduce our risk randomised controlled trials, diet. control,P cholesterol and lead to cardiovascular disease is strong. for heart problems and improve nearly 700 participants that There was no signifi cant eff ect weight loss in people with Type 2 60-70 per cent of people who Type 2 diabetes at the same time,” assessed the eff ectiveness of vegan on fasting insulin, HDL-C, diabetes. have Type 2 diabetes die of heart Kahleova added. and vegetarian diets for diabetes triglycerides or blood pressure. The researchers suggest disease,” said co-author Hana According to the researchers, patients. The overall certainty of evidence that plant-based diets benefi t Kahleova, Director of Clinical those with diabetes are two to The results suggested that was moderate but was low for both glycaemic control and Research at the Physicians four times more likely to die from those who ate a plant-based diet fasting insulin, triglycerides, and cardiovascular health because they Committee for Responsible cardiovascular disease than those lowered their cholesterol, lost waist circumference. – IANS

Losing weight reduces Toothpaste can contribute eff ects of heart rhythm disorder to antibiotic resistance

Losing weight may reverse or reduce the progression A common ingredient found in toothpaste of irregular heart rhythm disorder among obese people, and hand wash may contribute to antibiotic claim researchers, including one of Indian origin. resistance in body, warns a new study. The fi ndings showed that reducing weight by 10 A compound named triclosan, used in more per cent along with management of associated risk than 2,000 personal care products which we use factors can reduce the eff ects of Atrial brillationfi (AF), almost daily, may be increasing the spread of a leading cause of stroke which can lead to heart failure antibiotic resistance, the study said. among overweight people. “These chemicals are used in much larger People who lost weight experienced fewer quantities at an everyday level, so you end symptoms, required less treatment and had better up with high residual levels in the wider outcomes. environment, which can induce multi-drug “This is the fi rst time that evidence has been found resistance,” said lead researcher Jianhua Guo that if people who are obese and are suff ering from from University of Queensland in Australia. atrial fi brillation the disease can be alleviated by losing In the study, published in the journal weight and treating lifestyle factors,” said lead author Environment International, the team investigated Melissa Middeldorp from the University of Adelaide whether the exposure to non-antibiotic, in Australia. AF is a progressive disease in which initial antimicrobial (NAAM) chemicals such as short, intermittent symptoms develop into more triclosan has an impact on inducing antibiotic sustained forms of the condition. Obesity and lifestyle resistance on Escherichia coli bacteria. factors are associated with its progression. The results showed that at a concentration of “This study shows that weight-loss and treating 0.2mg/L (milligrams per litre), triclosan induces lifestyle factors is an essential component for eff ectively multi-drug resistance in wild-type E.coli managing AF, in many instances being an alternative bacteria after 30 days of being exposed to the to surgery or drug intervention,” added Professor chemical. Prashanthan Sanders from the varsity. “This discovery provides strong evidence that In the study, published in the journal Europace, the the triclosan found in personal care products team analysed 355 overweight people who lost varying FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Study shows, weight-loss is an essential component for that we use daily is accelerating the spread of amounts of weight. – IANS eff ectively managing the leading causes of heart stroke. antibiotic resistance,” Guo said. – IANS Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 5 BODY & MIND COMMUNITY

ADVERSE: Sitting without back support increased the odds of pain by two times. Extreme neck, shoulder postures common among iPad using women

omen are two times posture, not screen time, is the biggest The pain disparity among men and women symptoms of iPad neck as compared to just more likely than men to factor behind neck and shoulder pain due to might be explained by size and movement 30 per cent of men. Women were also more experience pain in their iPad use. diff erences. likely (77 per cent) to use their tablets while neck during iPad use mainly “Theoretically, the more hours you Women’s tendency to have lower muscle sitting on the fl oor than men (23 per cent). due to bad postures, warns spend bent over an iPad, the more neck and strength and smaller stature (for example, Further, sitting without back support aW new study. shoulder pain you experience but what we shorter arms and narrow shoulders) might increased the odds of pain by two times. iPad Neck, a condition of persistent pain found is that time is not the most important lead them to assume extreme neck and Sitting with the device on the lap or sitting in the neck and upper shoulders caused by risk factor. Rather, its gender and specifi c shoulder postures while typing, according to on a chair with the tablet placed on a fl at slouching or bending into extreme positions postures,” said lead study author Szu-Ping the researchers. desk surface also contributed to the pain. while using tablet computers, is also more Lee from the University of Nevada, Las In the study, the team conducted a survey Sitting on chairs with back support and prevalent among young people than older Vegas (UNLV). of over 400 people who were touchscreen exercising to strengthen muscles are some adults, said the study. Postures that led to pain included those tablet computer users. steps that users could take to avoid pain due The fi ndings, published in the Journal that cause the tablet user to ‘slump’ over and The results showed that 70 per cent of to iPad use, according to the researchers. – of Physical Therapy Science, suggests that gaze downward. female respondents reported experiencing IANS

Psychological stress Guericke University of Magdeburg in parasympathetic activity, the aff ects vision Germany. researchers said. The research team also found They have been used successfully Persistent psychological stress that increased intraocular pressure, in tandem with therapies to increase which is widely recognised as a endothelial dysfunction (fl ammer blood fl ow to the eye, thereby opening consequence of vision loss is also a syndrome) and infl ammation are the window of opportunity for vision major contributor to its development some of the consequences of stress restoration, the researchers added. and progression, a new study has causing further damage. According to the researchers, this warned. The study recommends improving approach can be used more widely The study, published in the EPMA the clinician-patient relationship and in the clinical management of eye Journal, is based on a comprehensive provides stress-reduction treatments diseases. analysis of hundreds of published and psychological counselling to Stress reduction and relaxation research and clinical reports on interrupt the vicious cycle of stress techniques such as meditation, the relationship of stress and and progressive vision loss. autogenic training, stress ophthalmologic diseases. Adjunct therapies like brain management training and “Continuous stress and stimulation, relaxation response, psychotherapy to learn to cope elevated cortisol levels negatively vision restoration, anxiety should be recommended not only impact the eye and brain due management and social support as complementary to traditional to autonomic nervous system counteract stress and induce a treatments of vision loss, but (sympathetic) imbalance and vascular relaxation response by rebalancing possibly as preventive measures to ADVICE: To break the vicious cycle of stress and progressive vision deregulation,” said lead author the autonomic system of reducing reduce progression of vision loss, the loss, stress reduction treatments can be employed. Bernhard Sabel from the Otto von sympathetic and activating researchers noted. – IANS 6 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY CUISINE

paniyaram are served with coconut chutney but you can replace that with your choice of sauce. When you add additional fl avourings to the batter you can even consume it without any sauce along. These are one of the great lunch box ideas for kids as they are simple, fresh and kids like eating these small round buns. Chettinad Paniyaram

Ingredients Idli Batter 3 cups Onion, chopped 1 no. Green chili, chopped 2-3 no. Curry leaves 2-3 sprigs Eggs 2 no. Coriander leaves, chopped 2 tbsp. Mustard seeds ½ tsp Asafetida ½ tsp Turmeric powder 1 tsp Cumin powder 2 tsp Red chili powder 2 tsp Black pepper powder ½ tsp Grated coconut ½ cup Salt to taste Cooking oil to cook

Method SPICY: Chettinad Paniyaram is served hot with coconut chutney. Photo by the author In a heavy bottom pan heat oil over medium heat, add mustard seeds and let it splutter for few seconds Add onion, ginger, green chilies, asafetida and curry leaves and sauté for few seconds till the onion is Paniyaram, everyday translucent Add turmeric powder, chili powder, cumin, red chili powder, black pepper powder and grated coconut and stir for few minutes Remove from fl ame and keep aside liking in South India In a separate bowl add egg to the batter, add the prepared onion eing from northern Rice is a staple in these states thus up. It is mostly served as a breakfast it to a paste and letting it ferment mixture and chopped cilantro part of India, I always a lot of dishes revolve around rice. dish with coconut chutney or spicy at room temperature. The grinder leaves and adjust the seasoning liked and was inclined Also, these states have abundance tomato chutney. used to make the batter is made Combine well to a homogeneous towards the south of spice production which are A special cooking pan or tray from a special stone which grounds mixture, keep aside Indian dishes like Dosa also freely incorporated in their with several round compartments the rice and lentils to desired Heat the paniyaram pan over Band Idli as a child but never got respective cuisines. Chettinad like a mini muffi n tray is the thickness. Now a day, you get a medium heat and add ½ tsp oil in to travel to southern India. As I cuisine uses a lot of spices and I traditional cookware used for ready-made batter in almost all each cup grew, my love for south Indian would say is the most spicy cuisine making Paniyaram. The pan is supermarkets and thus simplifying Drop the prepared batter using a dishes also increased and especially in Indian subcontinent. The dish made with cast iron and is very the whole process of soaking, table soon into each cup when I decided to be a chef. My comes from Tamil Nadu, a state durable. The benefi t of cooking in grinding and fermentation. You Cover with the lid and cook over outlook towards south Indian known for its delicious signature cast iron utensils is that the iron just add some additives to the medium fl ame for 4-5 minutes, fl ip cuisine broadened and I started dishes that originated in the region. imparts a great taste to the dishes batter if you wish and then cook the cakes using a fork in their own researching more about the cuisine It is made with a specifi c mold cooked in it and retains heat well them in paniyaram pan. Additional cup and cook again covered for 5 in the early days of my culinary called paniyaram pan which is and gives a nice golden-brown ingredients like carrots, ginger, minutes career. That’s when I came across available in almost all supermarkets crust to Paniyaram. Non-stick green chili, black pepper, onions, Add more oil if required, you can a dish called Paniyaram and that in India, Middle Eastern and South- paniyaram pans are also available curry leaves, mustard seeds can also use a pan spray to coat the pan instantly became my third favourite East Asia regions due to the large but I prefer the cast iron simply also be added to the batter to make and prevent them sticking to the after Dosa and Idli. Also during my south Indian population in these for their long life and great taste it more fl avourful. After mixing pan beautiful days in Qatar, where there foreign lands. People, who like their they impart to dish cooked in the batter is poured into the pan’s Serve hot with coconut chutney is a large south Indian population, Dosa and Idli would love this dish them. At fi rst a batter is made compartment and placed in an or your choice of sauce. these were frequent additions to my too as the batter used to make them from combining rice and washed open or cooked on fl ame. After a restaurant menu and were served is very similar. The batter recipes black lentil, known as ‘urad dal’. while the buns must be fl ipped in on special occasion in buff et too. mostly include rice and lentil Fenugreek seeds and salt are used their own shell to cook and crust z Chef Tarun Kapoor, South India mainly comprises of fermented batter but I prefer to to season the batter. The batter is them from other side too. A perfect Culinary Mastermind, four states — Tamil Nadu, Kerala, add chopped onions, carrots, chili, made by soaking the ingredients paniyaram should have a golden- USA. He may be contacted at Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. curry leaves to the batter to spice it preferably overnight. Then grinding brown crust all around it. The [email protected] Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 7 ROVING EYE COMMUNITY

HUNTING: A hunter looks for quail with his dog in the hilly countryside of Malta. Malta’s hunting season attracts birdwatchers of a diff erent feather

The regulations are stricter and Malta is the only EU country where hunters are still allowed to shoot wild the penalties greater than anywhere else in the European Union, he says, adding that it would be better if the birds in spring, prompting birdwatchers to flock to the country, equipped EU sent its own fact-fi nding mission so that it could see how law-abiding Maltese hunters are. with cameras, to watch out for rule breakers. By Lena Klimkeit Bonnici says he himself has shot only one quail so far this year. “There wasn’t even anything left ground-nesting bird usually found in Mark Mifsud Bonnici, president for my wife,” he says. “We’re such a meadows, could be shot. of the hunting association Saint small country. We couldn’t harm an Hunters usually fi re towards Hubert Hunters, complains of the entire population.” the ground while hunting quail, monitoring later the same day: Hunting is a social event, he which produces a dull, thudding “This morning, people from Birdlife explains, a passion like drinking sound, Tribe explains. But if the were out and about again, and they wine or making music – with the birdwatchers hear several shots one weren’t watching birds, they were diff erence that there are groups that after the other, it could mean they watching us.” want to ban it. were aiming at turtle doves, classifi ed Birdlife Malta has long been The Environment Ministry says as vulnerable on the International fi ghting to end the island’s that in 2017, as in previous years, Union for Conservation of Nature’s traditional spring hunting. In a 2015 signifi cantly fewer birds were shot red list of threatened species. referendum on the hunt, however, than were permitted – the shooting It’s the second year in a row that the environmentalists lost – though of just 128 quails was registered, 2.56 Malta has banned hunting for them only by a narrow margin. per cent of the quota. in spring. There are more than 500 bird And only 76 hunters shot between According to CABS, for some species in Europe, according to the one and 10 quails, the ministry adds hunters, the spring season is European Commission, and almost – nobody reached the individual OBSERVERS: Nicholas Barbara, left, and Alice Tribe, from the international an excuse to go looking for rare 200 of them and their subspecies are quota of fi ve quails per day, or 10 per organisation Birdlife, observe hunters during Malta’s controversial spring songbirds and birds of prey, protected classifi ed as threatened. Around 82 person per season. hunting season to ensure they don’t break any rules. species like the golden oriole, honey species are allowed to be hunted at But Hirschfeld says that since buzzard and marsh harrier. clearly defi ned times of the year. the system for registering kills was s a series of gunshots hunters are still allowed to shoot Barbara parks his car and holds However, Malta has the highest changed to text message, many have break the morning still, wild birds in spring, for which it has his video camera at the ready. To the concentration of hunters in the bloc, not been reported. Nicholas Barbara looks come under heavy criticism from left, cliff s fall away into the sea and with 12,000 out of a total population However, he is also hopeful. fi rst at his colleague environmentalists who say it has the tweeting of birds can be heard all of just 450,000. And they can make “The number of illegal killings of and then through devastating eff ects on birds. around. But sounds can be deceiving, all the diff erence in an election. birds of prey has gone down. In years Ahis binoculars, scanning the hilly The Mediterranean island is a says Tribe – some hunters play bird “That’s why the Maltese government past, their chances of surviving Malta landscape. resting stop for many migrating birds song to attract others. allows it by derogation, so that if the were signifi cantly lower,” he says. “That wasn’t anybody shooting at on their way from Africa to their At the next watching post, Tribe spring hunt is completely banned, it However, the signs of the spring quail,” says Alice Tribe. breeding grounds in Europe. and Barbara position themselves will be the EU at fault,” says Bonnici. hunt are still everywhere – ropes It’s a foggy morning in Malta, and “These birds would certainly under a jutting-out wall. Suddenly, He claims that not one of the hanging from trees used to startle the an easterly wind is blowing. breed,” says Axel Hirschfeld, of the the shots stop. 2,000 members of his association has birds into the air, cages holding birds The bird watchers from the Germany-based Committee Against They both catch a glimpse of violated any of the island’s laws on used to attract others. international group Birdlife have Bird Slaughter (CABS). “If you kill a man stealing quickly into the bird hunting. And Barbara admits that there’s come equipped with cameras to them, you also kill all their off spring.” undergrowth. “They notice our Bonnici, whose father and another danger for birds in Malta. ensure that hunters don’t break any This year the hunting season ran presence,” says Barbara. For them, grandfather hunted before him, “Development is a huge problem,” laws. for three weeks and the Maltese even just disturbing a hunter is a doesn’t understand the anger of the he says. “Perhaps even worse than Malta is the only EU country where government ruled that only quail, a small success. birdwatchers. the hunters.” – DPA 8 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY INFOGR Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 9 RAPHIC COMMUNITY 10 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY US prepares defence against possible killer asteroid A giant asteroid could potentially collide with Earth in over 100 years, but Nasa scientists aren’t taking chances: They’ve already begun researching how to stop the killer space rock — just in case. By Christina Horsten

ou would be forgiven for not worrying about what might happen on September 25, 2135. Scientists are worried, though, since there’s a chance — albeit Yonly 1 in 2,700, according to current calculations — that an asteroid taller than the Empire State Building and 1,664 times as heavy as the Titanic will hit the Earth. If it does, it’s estimated that the kinetic energy of the impact would be equivalent to 1,200 megatonnes — 80,000 times the energy of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima — so you would also be forgiven for being glad that you won’t be around for the fi reworks. “The chance of an impact appears slim now, but the consequences would be dire,” said Kirsten Howley, a physicist at the California-based Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), which applies science and technology in the service of US national security. LLNL scientists are part of a “national planetary defence team,” including the US space agency Nasa, the National Nuclear Security Administration and Los Alamos National Laboratory, that has designed a conceptual spacecraft to defl ect Earth-bound asteroids. The team has evaluated whether it would be able to knock off course 101955 Bennu — the massive asteroid that could strike in 2135. ILLUSTRATION: This handout illustration shows the size diff erence between the Bennu asteroid threatening Earth and the HAMMER defence Nasa ranks Bennu among the most system being developed by scientists. dangerous of the more than 10,000 near- Earth objects detected to date. To learn more to possibly defl ect Bennu – dubbed about the potential killer rock, Nasa launched HAMMER, short for Hypervelocity Asteroid in 2016 the spacecraft OSIRIS-REx — an Mitigation Mission for Emergency Response acronym of Origins, Spectral Interpretation, vehicle – is 9 metres tall, weighs 8.8 tonnes Resource Identifi cation, and Security– and features a modular design that would Regolith Explorer — to map it and return a enable it to serve as either a ‘kinetic impactor’ sample. Costing about a billion dollars, it’s — essentially a battering ram — or as a the fi rst such mission by the US. transport vehicle for a nuclear device. Originally known as 1999 RQ36, the The preferred method, the US scientists asteroid was renamed Bennu — after an say, would be to ram the asteroid off a ancient Egyptian deity usually depicted as a collision course with Earth — but not so hard grey heron — by a 9-year-old American boy that it breaks apart. The nuclear defl ection in a 2013 contest. approach, unlike the portrayal in the 1998 US Carbon-rich and thought to perhaps fi lm Armageddon, would involve detonating contain organic materials or molecular a nuclear explosive some distance from the precursors to life, the space rock is about 500 asteroid. metres in diameter, weighs some 79 billion In a paper published recently in the kilograms and is circling the sun at a speed of journal Acta Astronautica, the scientists more than 100,000 kilometres per hour. note that if the decision was made to defl ect It comes close to the Earth every six years. Bennu, it would take at least 7.4 years to WORRISOME: Scientists are worried about a chance — albeit only 1 in 2,700, according to current OSIRIS-REx is expected to begin its build the spacecraft, plan the mission and calculations — that an asteroid taller than the Empire State Building and 1,664 times as heavy as approach in August before reaching Bennu travel to the asteroid. Delay would greatly the Titanic will hit the Earth in 2135. in December. The spacecraft will use its fi ve complicate mitigation, since the strength onboard instruments for remote sensing of the shove needed to suffi ciently change they say their fi ndings suggest that the more principal investigator for Nasa’s OSIRIS-REx and scanning the surface of the asteroid Bennu’s trajectory increases the closer it gets powerful, nuclear option may be required mission. to establish its composition. In 2020, it’s to Earth. The scientists estimate that seven for larger objects like Bennu, as it can eff ect a “Bennu’s experiences will tell us more scheduled to collect between 60 grams and 2 to 11 launches of single HAMMER impactors greater change in speed and trajectory. about where our solar system came from and kilograms of surface material with its robotic would be needed 25 years before a projected Though Bennu could kill many living how it evolved. arm, and then return to Earth in 2023. impact with Earth, compared with 34 to 53 things on Earth, it may hold clues to how life “Like the detectives in a crime show Knowing Bennu’s physical and chemical launches for a 10-year lead time. got here in the fi rst place. episode, we’ll examine bits of evidence from properties will help scientists in developing a While the scientists’ paper didn’t include “We’re going to Bennu because we want to Bennu to understand more completely the defence strategy against it if necessary. simulations of nuclear defl ection scenarios, know what it has witnessed over the course of story of the solar system, which is ultimately The spacecraft conceived by US scientists which are to be published in the near future, its evolution,” said Edward Beshore, deputy the story of our origin.” – DPA Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 11 LEISURE COMMUNITY

Colour by choice

Maze Connect the dots Picture crossword 12 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY CARTOON Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 13 LEISURE COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Wordwatch

kinesics Edward Kasner. Earliest USAGE: (kuh/ky-NEE-siks/ziks) documented use: 1940. “The mere friction of the wales of MEANING: USAGE: my corduroy-covered chair were noun: The study of body “So, yes, I have looked at the the only things holding me.” movements, such as gestures or content of those cuneiform facial expressions, as a form of messages written with a stylus inscape communication. onto clay. And I have read a googol (IN-skayp) ETYMOLOGY: blog posts, text messages and MEANING: Coined by the anthropologist Ray tweets.” noun: The unique essence of a Birdwhistell (1918-1994). From personal, place, or thing, especially Greek kinesis (motion), from kinein wale as expressed in a work of art such (to move). Earliest documented (wayl) as a poem. use: 1952. MEANING: ETYMOLOGY: USAGE: noun: 1. A streak mark raised on Coined by the poet and priest “And she asked herself the big the skin, as by a whip. Gerard Manley Hopkins (1844- question: What did the kinesics 2. One of the series of ribs in a 1889) who, in turn, was inspired by reveal? Was Edwin Sharp telling fabric such as corduroy. the philosopher Duns Scotus (c. the truth?” 3. A plank along the side of a 1266-1308). Earliest documented wooden ship. use: 1868. googol 4. A horizontal band or strip, for USAGE: (GOO-gol, -guhl) example, around a woven basket. “McCabel has said that ‘I’ve always MEANING: Verb tr.: 1. To mark with wales. felt that naturalism or social noun: A number equivalent to 1 2. To fasten or secure. realism only provides a third of the followed by 100 zeros (10100). ETYMOLOGY: story ... [it] gives you the marble ETYMOLOGY: From Old English walu (mark of but not the inscape of the statue.’” Coined by Milton Sirotta, nine-year- a lash). Earliest documented use: old nephew of the mathematician 1024. — wordsmith.org Sudoku Yesterday’s Solutions

ACROSS DOWN 3. Are not alone in being driven 1. Miserable, standing to lose to make economies? (5,1,4) one’s boy-friend about it (8) 8. Leave to return, having 2. “It’s part of the service,” he recorded right through (6) answers impertinently (6) 9. Got up, you say, for breakfast 3. Having awakened, was made (4) to go round (7) 10. Definitely, will make the tar 4. The dam is equally pale (5) melt in the end (3,7) 5. Get in the post (4) 11. It’s a slug, child (3) 6. Having laid hands on the 13. “Pretty remote,” I interposed leaflet, steal it (8) (4) 7. In this case isn’t wrong to 14. Box containing a rare kind of wield the cane (8) earth (7) 12. The courage to tangle with a Sudoku is a puzzle based 15. The attraction is a minor turn tiger out East (4) on a 9x9 grid. The (4) 14. Understand it’s one of the grid is also divided into 17. Surrounded, have your hair minor branches (4) nine (3x3) boxes. You done by the hairdresser (5) 16. Possibly does up the plant (4) are given a selection of 20. In the end, having a right to 17. Keep it up and save your hair values and to complete the name (5) (8) the puzzle, you must fill the grid so that 22. Drives from the poultry farm 18. To an extent, that’s not the every column, every row and every 3x3 (4) whole question (8) box contains the digits 1 to 9 and none 24. Fell from the mount, 19. It’s hard to believe, for a start, is repeated. somehow, on getting off and in any way (4) was cut (7) 21. Has a view over, one finds The Mall Cinema (1): Royal Plaza Cinema 25. Therefore, is taking over (5,3) Abraham’s Santhathikal Palace (1): The Incredibles 2 shortly (4) 23. Back in the news stand, 27. Go by boat; that’s the become less acerbic (7) (Malayalam) 2:30pm; 7 (3D) 2:30pm; The Incredibles difference (3) 25. The tracks are not good Din Mohabbat In () Landmark Cinema (1): 2 (2D) 5pm; The Incredibles 28. Why the roof’s leaking like between the points (6) 5pm; Abla Tamtam (Arabic) Abraham’s Santhathikal 2 (3D) 7:15pm; Adrift (2D) mad? (5,5) 26. A colour shot of the dance (5) 7:30pm; Jurrasic World: (Malayalam) 2:15pm; Maya: 9:30pm; Race 3 (Hindi) 29. Making a mess of the hard- 28. A foot-pump, perhaps (4) Fallen Kingdom (2D) The Bee 2 (2D) 4:30pm; Tik: 11:15pm. wood (4) 9:15pm; Tik: Tik: Tik (Tamil) Tik: Tik (Tamil) 6:15pm; Race Royal Plaza Cinema 30. The first fellow left 11:30pm. 3 (Hindi) 8:45pm; Abraham’s Palace (2): Abraham’s frightened, getting a piece of The Mall Cinema (2): The Santhathikal (Malayalam) Santhathikal (Malayalam) one’s mind (6) Incredibles 2 (2D) 2pm; 11:30pm. 2pm; Maya: The Bee 2 31. Decided you have to stop The Incredibles 2 (3D) Landmark Cinema (2): The (2D) 4:15pm; Abraham’s wandering (6,4) 4:15pm; The Incredibles 2 Incredibles 2 (2D) 2:30pm; Santhathikal (Malayalam) (2D) 6:30pm; Race 3 (Hindi) The Incredibles 2 (2D) 6pm; Race 3 (Hindi) 8:30pm; 8:45pm; Race 3 (Hindi) 4:45pm; The Incredibles 2 Abraham’s Santhathikal Yesterday’s Solutions 11:30pm. (2D) 7pm; Adrift (2D) 9:15pm; (Malayalam) 11:30pm. The Mall Cinema (3): Race 3 (Hindi) 11pm. Royal Plaza Cinema Across: 1 Patter; 5 Mentor; Down: 1 Parish; 2 Tosh; 3 Tik: Tik: Tik (Tamil) 2:15pm; Landmark Cinema (3): Palace (3): Tik: Tik: Tik 8 Inure; 9 Rustic; 10 Gallon; Ricochet; 4 Such sweet sorrow; Jurrasic World: Fallen Race 3 (Hindi) 2:15pm; (Tamil) 2pm; Jurrasic 11 Other; 14 Here’s how; 16 5 Megrim; 6 Tall; 7 Rancid; 12 Kingdom (2D) 5pm; Abraham’s Santhathikal World: Fallen Kingdom Moaned; 18 Top of the morning; Resound; 13 Faintly; 15 Erode; 17 Beirut (2D) 7:15pm; Adrift (Malayalam) 5pm; Abla (2D) 4:45pm; Beirut (2D) 20 Dennis; 22 Supplied; 25 Ernie; 19 Opposite; 20 Dodder; Marks; 27 Done up; 28 Inform; 21 Sampan; 23 Dismal; 24 Anna; (2D) 9:15pm; Abraham’s Tamtam (Arabic) 7:30pm; 7pm; Leilet Hana Wa Srour 29 About; 30 Reason; 31 Entail. 26 Dora. Santhathikal (Malayalam) Beirut (2D) 9:30pm; Tik: Tik: (Arabic) 9pm; Tik: Tik: Tik 11:15pm. Tik (Tamil) 11:30pm. (Tamil) 11pm. 14 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE Ways to rejuvenate your hair when life gets busy

ave you ever been just Get enough sleep: It’s Choose the right products: too busy to take care unfortunate how many of us Everyone has diff erent hair, so of your hair? Few easy forget the importance of adequate choosing the product that works ways like keeping a sleep. Lack of sleep not only puts for your hair type is crucial. What check on what you you in a bad mood, it also affects is meant for oily hair, may not give Heat and having proper sleep can your hair. It has been found in the same results on your dry hair. rejuvenate your tresses like never studies that sleep deprivation for What’s more, try to avoid products before. a prolonged period of time can that contain sulphates and paraben as Aafrin Anjum, Founder and Almond oil in winters for massage. Myna Batavia, Co-Founder of induce more oil production in they can cause damage to your hair. Product Formulator of Herbs4Sure, Sinfully Myne, a Bengaluru-based the scalp, leaving your hair dull a Gurgaon-based beauty company Always condition after the wellness and beauty company, lists looking. Make sure to get at least Stop washing your hair daily: too have some tips to share. shampoo: While shampooing down tips to rejuvenate your hair 7-8 hours of sound sleep every Well, no-one likes their hair oily cleans all the oils from the scalp when life gets busy: night to keep your hair in healthy and limp but washing your hair Always keep your scalp clean: most conditioners replenish lost condition. every day can do more harm than It’s a myth that if we wash our hair lipids and proteins. So whenever Oil you hair: Oil your hair good. Shampooing twice or thrice less more will they remain healthy. you shampoo use conditioner after frequently to keep it nourished Check what you eat: No a week should be enough to keep On the other hand everyone should it. This way your hair will stay and healthy. Different oils like matter what product you use, if your hair clean, but those living an wash their hair every alternate healthy and strong. olive oil, coconut oil and castor oil you are not eating healthy, it will active life can wash their hair every day with some natural organic should be used. Massage the oil reflect on your hair. Since our alternate day. You can also co-wash nourishing shampoo. This way hair Let hair dry naturally and slowly into the scalp and leave it hair is made of protein, your diet your hair, which means washing shafts will remain clean and dust avoid using chemical laced on for at least for two hours before should consist of protein-rich your hair only using conditioner. will not accumulate in our scalp products: Going natural and shampooing. food like lean meat, eggs, fish, reducing the chances of having hair organic is the simplest rule we Oil forms a protective barrier pulses etc. Don’t forget to eat a lot Moisturise: Remember, loss. can follow in our lives. Always around the cuticle and nourishes of green veggies like spinach, kale moisturising is the key to breathe remember ‘Less is more’, rushing the hair shaft. Coconut oil has as well. If you want to bring back new life into your hair. Always Hot oil massage at least twice to dry hair with heat is the most penetrative properties that nourish the shine to your hair, you should apply a conditioner after washing a week: Oiling our hair is always a harmful thing we can do for our the hair shaft with its chain of fatty also consume seafood and fish oil your hair. If you can’t make time on good idea as it nourishes the scalp, tresses. Avoid going for chemical acids. The high protein content that contains Omega-3 fatty acid. the weekdays, make sure to treat gives calming eff ect and reduces the treatments as it will become a of castor oil fi lls in the damaged Alternatively, you can take biotin your hair with a deep conditioning stress. One can use Cold pressed vicious cycle. Just let your hair keratin spots of your hair. supplements. mask at least once a week. virgin Coconut oil in summers and breathe and be healthy. — IANS

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

This is a fantastic day for you, Aries. You’ll have a great deal of physical This is a good day to stand up for yourself and make it known that If you want to shine brightly, Gemini, then do so. Maintaining balance power. Engage in activities that put this strength to good use. Tackle you aren’t a pushover, Taurus. Use the powerful energy of the day to includes sometimes being a bit selfish. Feel free to radiate your beauty projects vigorously and feel free to speak up. Make sure that the whole follow through on projects that may have lost momentum. Pick up the to the world. If you aren’t in a situation that makes you happy, change world knows that you’re handling every task. People would be unwise reins and take control of the direction of your life. Feel free to be more the situation. There’s no reason for you to be miserable. Don’t allow to cross you today, because you have a great deal of warrior energy and aggressive than you normally would. Show others your incredible yourself to be pushed around by other people’s whims. Be free, be won’t hesitate to strike back. worth. yourself, even if it means you might create tension with others. CANCER LEO VIRGO June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

People would be wise to get out of your way today, Cancer. You might The fiery energy of the day is helping you press on with projects you You might be charged with energy but feel you have nowhere to aim find yourself feeling like a steam engine that’s stoked to the brim with have in the works. Set things in motion now, Leo. Move out of the it, Virgo. The force is there, but the goal may not be. Talking with others fiery hot coals. You’re likely to be adamant about your course, and no background and onto centre stage. Your rocket is fuelled and ready to may only confuse you. Listen to yourself. You know yourself better than one is going to be able to pull you off track. If people look carefully, they take off . All you have to do now is ignite the engine. Use the power of anyone else does. You have nothing to fear. Don’t let doubt consume might even be able to see the steam coming out of your ears. your emotions to deliver a boost that will propel you to the stars. you. If it doesn’t seem like the right time to make a move, don’t worry. There’s nothing wrong with stillness. LIBRA SCORPIO SAGITTARIUS September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

Arguments that have been brewing are coming to a climactic point for There is no need to frown when another person walks by just because A blast of energy is headed your way today, Sagittarius. You’ll find that you, Libra. Don’t be surprised if heated opposition rears its head today. you don’t know that person, Scorpio. You must break the habit of there is no shortage of adrenaline in your system. Don’t delay – there This is likely a result of your own doing. Cycles of anger are reaching living your life in fear. Take active steps toward curing this trend by not are opportunities now that may not be there for you later. Action is the a critical point, and your stubborn character is butting heads with an stepping down when strong forces try to intimidate you with brute name of the game. You’ll be noticed and properly rewarded for your equally strong force. Try not to take yourself too seriously. Life is meant strength. Promote the picture of peace and serenity that you have eff orts. Your emotions have a great deal of strength now. to be fun. Our objective is to be happy. inside your head. Bring out more of your inner self. CAPRICORN AQUARIUS PISCES December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

You could run into some emotional roadblocks today, Capricorn. There is a fun-loving, boisterous energy to the day that should give you You might be getting a bit forceful with your emotions today, Pisces. This could be due to a lack of honesty on your part. Make sure you’re a great deal of power and self-confidence. You’ll be extremely eff ective Don’t be surprised if you’re like a fire-breathing dragon when you speak. sticking to the truth at all times. A strong, forceful energy could in everything you put your hand to, Aquarius. Remember to love Sparks are apt to fly. Strong feelings have been building up inside you. challenge your ego. Don’t be surprised if this force is emotionally highly yourself and believe in the things you say and do. Generate passionate Now is the time to release them in all their intensity. People need to hear charged. Conflict is apt to result if you aren’t honest about your feelings love from your heart. No one will be able to respond with anything but the things you have to say. You’re doing yourself and others a disservice as soon as they arise. the same. by keeping it all bottled up inside. Friday, June 22, 2018 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY

Black Panther and including the Best Movie at the awards Stranger Things dominate ceremony which was held recently. MTV awards show Actor Chadwick Boseman received two trophies, Best Hero and Best Movie Film Black Panther and hit TV show Performance, while actor Michael B. Jordan Stranger Things reigned at the 2018 MTV received an award for being the Best Villain. Movie & TV Awards, winning the most fi lm Boseman even gave his Best Hero award to awards and dominating the television fi eld. real-life hero James Shaw Jr, who fought off The show was hosted by Tiff any Haddish, a gunman at the Tennessee Waffl e House who too took home an award herself for Best shooting earlier this year. Comedic Performance in Girls Trip, reports Stranger Things walked away with three variety.com. awards, including the Best Show and The highest honours of the night were actress Millie Bobby Brown and actor Noah given to actress and writer Lena Waithe, Schnapp took home trophies as well. who got The Trailblazer Award, while actor The Best Fight Award was bagged by Chris Pratt won The Generation Award. Wonder Woman where actress Gal Gadot Black Panther bagged four awards, fought German soldiers in the fi lm. – IANS

TRIUMPH: Black Panther bagged four and Stranger Things walked away with three awards at MTV movie and TV Awards

Arjun , Parineeti reunite Namaste England is a sequel to the fi lm for Namaste England (2007). “It’s a franchise that has been loved for Actor says his Namaste so many years. Namastey London had iconic England co-star brings songs, scenes and visuals, so to be part of out his best while shooting for a fi lm. that world, and to be working with Vipul sir, Arjun, Parineeti and director Vipul who has earlier directed that fi lm, gives me Amrutlal Shah interacted with the media an amazing feeling. RETURN: The actor will be seen on television with Main Khayal Hoon Kisi Aur Ka going on air from at the wrap-up party of Namaste England “It’s also a strange feeling because Saturday. recently. sometimes you want to be part of some Both actors earlier featured in fi lms and I clearly remember that I watched , and Namaste England marks Namastey London with Katrina Kaif (who the second time that they have been paired. was the fi lm’s leading lady), and today I makes They will also be seen in Sandeep Aur Pinky am talking about wrapping shooting of Faraar. Namaste England. So, it’s very surreal in Arjun said, “As an actor, Parineeti brings that sense,” he added. The fi lm will release the best out of me because I feel that if on October 19. – IANS television comeback you are honest with your co-actor, then automatically, you deliver good results. fter two years of being part of television, too, but then again, I was only “There is not a feeling of fear in me while the fledgling Pakistani film trying to focus on one particular thing. working with Parineeti as I can tell her to industry, in an effort for its “If I would’ve been all over the place, we improvise on a certain scene or ask her to revival, actor Hareem Farooq is wouldn’t have been able to go beyond borders do some more retakes together. There is no finally all game for resurgence taking the content we’ve produced. So, I was sense of insecurity among us in terms of onA television. Having made her television just waiting for the right time.” outdoing each other. So, you look forward debut with TV channel Urdu 1’s drama serial Hareem Farooq would be seen in a drama to work with such actors because eventually Mere Humdum Mere Dost and later shot into serial Main Khayal Hoon Kisi Aur Ka going it helps both the actors to perform a good prominence with premier entertainment on air from Saturday on HUM TV, starring scene. That is the reason I enjoy working channel Hum TV’s Mausam — both in 2014, alongside and Alamdar with her.” one can clearly see how she has evolved. Hussain. Arjun said they have also witnessed a lot Farooq is now set to make an appearance in Main Khayal Hoon Kisi Aur Ka is an IRK of ups and downs in their careers. an upcoming television drama with a soul fi lms production who have previously given “It’s been almost seven years since we stirring role. fi lms like Parchi, and Siyaah, this did our fi rst fi lm together. We were really Although her last serial was aired in 2016, drama serial marks their debut into the young while shooting Ishaqzaade. So, there but Farooq has been a part of Pakistani television industry. has been a lot of gap... Both of us have been fi lms that did well on the box offi ce charts, Written by Shabana Ghulam Nabi and in touch, but I think we have witnessed so including Dobara Phir Se and Janaan both in directed by Emraan Kaleem Mallick, Hareem many ups and downs in our personal and 2016 and Parchi, earlier this year. When asked reveals that the serial is a love story, “A soft professional life, but while working on if she was unable to fi nd a good script in a romantic-drama which emphasises the Namaste England, we didn’t feel like we span of these two years, she said, “I was busy sacrifi ce of love, a broken relationship, a weak have shot a fi lm after six years. doing cinema and contributing my part for the man tied by societal pressures, a suff ering “Now, both of us have worked with each revival of this industry and taking woman who takes the bait and an oblivious other in two back-to-back fi lms. So, I think BACK AGAIN: The actor says he didn’t feel internationally. There have been exceptionally individual, who, at fi rst breaks them up only to we should take a break working with each that he was shooting with Parineeti after a written scripts that did amazingly well on bring them together in the end.” other.” gap of six years. 16 GULF TIMES Friday, June 22, 2018 COMMUNITY Volunteer commentators make football come alive for blind Blind and visually impaired football fans in Germany can still enjoy matches thanks to tailored commentaries. Such arrangements are compulsory in the higher echelons of the Bundesliga, but elsewhere, the commentary is carried out by unpaid volunteers

By Annette Schneider-Solis

he referee blows the final whistle. Magdeburg have just gained promotion to the second tier of the German Bundesliga football league after beating FortunaT Cologne 2-0. A roar erupts in the stadium. Fans are jumping up and down in the stalls. “Now there’s no stopping them!” cries Patrick Rieben. “The game’s over, the fans are storming the pitch!” Rieben’s job is to make these scenes of jubilation and despair come alive for blind and visually impaired football fans. With him in the stand are Torsten Kuehlhorn, Stephen Leuschner, Jonas Junker, Martin Lechelt and Jerome Haack - all unpaid volunteer commentators at this match in the third tier of the Bundesliga. The men take turns to pass around a microphone, and their commentaries are relayed to fans dotted around the stadium in central Germany through individual headsets. At higher levels in the Bundesliga, German football clubs have to pay for audio commentators. But in the third division, the commentary is all done by volunteers. Commentators have to keep their listeners informed not only about the state of play on the pitch, but also about what is going on in the stands and at the edge of the pitch. Magdeburg has a reputation for catering well for people with disabilities. During its days in the regional league, the club attracted meagre crowds and little media interest. But when it issued a special ENJOYING: A blind football fan listens to commentary provided by his club Magdeburg. He also wears a symbol to show that he is visually impaired. invitation to wheelchair users, many became firm fans. to work as a radio journalist. He had spotted For the promotion match, various donors commentators at work during a match at paid for tickets for 3,000 disabled people. first-tier Bundesliga club Wolfsburg. “I “This is a first for German football,” says thought to myself, that’s something for us,” Gerald Altmann, who organises the club’s he says. volunteers. The club was keen, but close to 10,000 Twenty blind and visually impaired fans dollars was needed to fund the equipment. were able to listen in to the commentary. The Magdeburg fan club stumped up One of them is Henning Krause, who has more than half, and a charity provided the been a fan of the club since it was part of balance. the former communist East Germany, more Thuemler started out doing the than a quarter of a century ago. commentaries on his own - hard work When he started to lose his sight because for the vocal cords, given the background of a progressive illness, he began staying at noise. He then sought help from journalism home more and stopped going to matches. students. But now he is back in the stands with his The current cohort of commentators plan friend Astrid Mertens, who is also visually to continue working on an honorary basis, impaired, following the game live. even though the team is now in the second “It’s great. The lads do it really well,” Bundesliga. In return for their efforts, they he says in praise of the commentators, get free entry to the games and access to the revelling in the fact that he can experience press area. the atmosphere in the stadium once more. Training takes place once a year, and in The idea was introduced to Magdeburg by the autumn there is a gathering with other COMMENTARY: Volunteer commentator Jerome Haak pictured alongside visually impaired Soeren Thuemler, a fan who also happened clubs in the region. – DPA football fans Henning Krause and Astrid Mertens at the Magdeburg football ground in Germany.