Thursday, April 9, 2020 Sha’ban 16, 1441 AH

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Cover High noon Story Families watch helplessly as coronavirus hits nursing homes and infects loved ones. P4-5

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Country folk legend Prine dies ‘Reading fiction helps of coronavirus complications. escape to a different world’. Page 15 Page 16 2 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

SERIES TO BINGE WATCH ON

PRAYER TIME Fajr 3.58am Shorooq (sunrise) 5.18am Zuhr (noon) 11.37am Asr (afternoon) 3.06pm Maghreb (sunset) 5.55pm Isha (night) 7.25pm

The Politician years old. But first he had to get through the most dangerous USEFUL NUMBERS DIRECTION: Ian Brennan, Brad Falchuk, political hurdle of all: Saint Sebastian High School. In order CAST: , Zoey Deutch, Lucy Boynton to be the President of the Student Body, study at Harvard and SYNOPSIS: Payton Hobart (Ben Platt), from Santa continue on his path to extraordinary success, Payton has to Barbara, , is a wealthy student who has wanted outsmart his ruthless classmates without sacrificing his moral to be the President of the United States since he was seven and carefully crafted image.

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Humanitarian Services Office (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies) 3% The link between the two sides – Offshore and Inland – is a Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, DIRECTION: Pedro Aguilera rigorous and painstaking system called The Process. Everyone 40253369 CAST: Bianca Comparato, Vaneza Oliveira, Rodolfo Valente in Inland has a chance to go through The Process to live a Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364 SYNOPSIS: A world divided into progress and devastation. better life in Offshore. But only 3% make it through. Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365 Qatar Airways 40253374

ote Unquo Qu te “Yesterday is not ours to recover, but tomorrow is ours to win or lose.” — Lyndon B Johnson

Community Editor Kamran Rehmat 13 Reasons Why mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. DIRECTION: Bryan Yorkey Inside he discovers a group of cassette tapes recorded e-mail: [email protected] CAST: Dylan Minnette, Katherine Langford, Christian by Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford) -his classmate Telephone: 44466405 Navarro and crush-who tragically committed suicide two weeks Fax: 44350474 SYNOPSIS: Based on the best-selling books by Jay earlier. On tape, Hannah unfolds an emotional audio diary, Asher, the show follows teenager Clay Jensen (Dylan detailing the thirteen reasons why she decided to end Minnette) as he returns home from school to find a her life. Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 3 BODY & MIND COMMUNITY What to do if you get coronavirus symptoms, or a positive diagnosis

Pay special attention to that cough this spring. It might not be allergies, writes Bryce Gray

xperts expect many must remain isolated until 72 hours Americans to catch the after symptoms cease, Liang said, new coronavirus over and longer if they have compromised the next few weeks and immune systems. If possible, months. Limiting the symptomatic individuals should Espread – and not overwhelming the isolate themselves in their own room local hospital system – may hinge, and use their own bathroom, said in part, on knowing what symptoms Liang. look like, and how to manage your “They have to have their own own case. space carved out to maintain that degree of isolation,” he said. Know the symptoms Liang recommends that patients A first essential step is to know the put on a mask whenever they leave symptoms most commonly linked to or are close to others, and the virus, and to be on high alert for reiterates the importance of cleaning them in yourself and others around shared environments and “high- you. Symptoms in many people can touch” surfaces, like door handles. be tricky to pick up in the initial days Patients should be sure to hydrate of the illness – often including body well, Liang said, and can take things aches, and general malaise, said Dr like Tylenol to keep fevers in check. Stephen Liang, an infectious disease The only other keys are patience and expert and assistant professor at the continued monitoring. “There’s not Washington University School of much else to do other than monitor Medicine. It’s not until a little later IMPORTANT: Isolation is of the utmost importance for those who are symptomatic or known to have coronavirus. symptoms and make sure symptoms that more tell-tale symptoms of the Those with the virus must remain isolated until 72 hours after symptoms cease and longer if they have compromised are continuing to resolve,” said Liang. virus usually begin to surface, like immune systems. “We don’t have a silver bullet for this a fever, shortness of breath, and a infection.” cough. Cross the finish line and don’t Track your progress let your guard down As soon as symptoms emerge, Once coronavirus symptoms Liang recommends keeping a diary improve, it is vital to stay isolated to track their progression. That for the full 72 hours after symptoms includes taking temperature readings vanish. and carefully observing whether Experts say recognising that conditions are getting better or requirement is essential. Even if worse, he said. someone might be nearly healthy If symptoms are mild, don’t again and assured of recovery, they further crowd hospitals – call your can still be a potentially deadly vector doctor. to countless others. “I think getting in contact with “Even if you’re feeling better, think your primary care physician would be about it as keeping others around you a great way to start,” Liang said. healthy,” said Liang. “That really has The vast majority of coronavirus to be a societal buy-in. ... That has cases – around 80% – are mild and a bigger implication for the entire will resolve on their own. About 15% community.” And if any symptom of cases are severe; 5% are critical reoccurs? Start over at the top. and require visits to an intensive care “It’s just being really vigilant about unit. symptoms and that there is a really For mild cases, staying at clear trajectory of improvement,” said home and taking “a watch-and- Liang. After symptoms are gone, it’s see approach is probably pretty still important for individuals to wash reasonable,” Liang said. If more hands diligently, since the duration of severe symptoms develop, such as how long people can shed the virus is chest pains or trouble breathing, still not completely clear, Liang said. then it’s time to seek medical care, Risks of transmission, though, are he adds. greatly reduced at that point. Those with only mild symptoms “We know that the people most probably won’t get tested, Liang likely to transmit this disease are explains. “We’re in a test-shortage symptomatic,” he said. situation where we would love to test Keep practicing prevention. The everyone if we could,” he says. “(But) old saying, “An ounce of prevention we’re trying to save that testing is worth a pound of cure,” rings capability for the sickest patients.” especially true now, with vaccines yet undeveloped and the virus spreading Isolate yourself through communities at exponential Isolation is of the utmost rates. Continue social distancing, importance for those who are hand-washing, good cough etiquette, symptomatic or known to have and other steps to minimise risk. coronavirus. Those with the virus – St. Louis Post-Dispatch/TNS 4 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY COVER STORY At sixes and sevens The stakes are literally life and death, since residents, who are elderly and almost always have underlying health problems, are among the most vulnerable to the lethal new pathogen, write Marisa Gerber, Matt Hamilton, Anita Chabria and Jack Dolan

SPOTLIGHT: The Kensington is one of 11 nursing home facilities with an outbreak of coronavirus in County. The one here is an assisted living residence in Redondo Beach, California.

livia Labrador’s loved ones out of nursing homes (Those nursing homes) mind started racing to save them from the pandemic, last week after she Labrador and her family faced an will do their best, received a call from her awful dilemma, one that would they’ll try to contain 89-year-old father’s have seemed unimaginable a month Onursing home, Garden Crest ago. But they are far from alone. it, but people will run Rehabilitation Center in Silver Across the US, outbreaks are Lake, informing her that a patient occurring in nursing homes out of (protective at the facility had tested positive for at terrifying speed — leading the coronavirus. administrators to ban visitors, equipment), caregivers “Oh my God,” Labrador thought, confine patients to their rooms and picturing patients she’d seen on scramble to create sterile wings to will get sick, and breathing machines in the past. treat residents who come down with people will die “What’s going to happen to all of the disease. The stakes are literally them?” life and death, since residents, who Labrador’s family considered are elderly and almost always have their options. They could bring her underlying health problems, are — David A Nace, father home, but they worried he among the most vulnerable to the clinical chief of might already have been exposed lethal new pathogen. to the virus that causes Covid-19, Hundreds of long-term care ‘ geriatric medicine which would put other vulnerable facilities in the US now have relatives at risk. residents who are infected with the ’ As some experts advise pulling virus. Last Tuesday, health officials Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 5 COVER STORY COMMUNITY in Washington state alone reported “When you have 108 outbreaks at long-term care facilities. And at a single nursing someone you home in Tennessee, more than 100 residents have tested positive. truly love, you In Connecticut, state officials are re-opening previously closed try not to leave facilities to create separate nursing them in a facility homes only for residents who are positive for Covid-19 — like modern- alone. She’s a day leper colonies. The “extreme precaution” is warranted, according beautiful flower, to Connecticut officials, because the results can be catastrophic when and she’s wilting, the virus gets loose among such a and so all you vulnerable population. One of the first coronavirus hot can do is give spots in the US was at the Life Care Center nursing home in Kirkland, her love. … I can’t Washington, where two-thirds of the residents and 47 workers fell ill, love her enough” and 37 people died. The worrisome national trend is picking up steam in Southern — Len Maisch, 84, California, too. On Monday, Los Angeles County on caring for his health officials announced that Garden Crest was among 11 area DILEMMA: Debbie Alexander, whose mother is in an assisted living facility with an outbreak of coronavirus cases, wife Joann, 71 nursing homes with outbreaks, works at a research laboratory at a San Diego hospital. Alexander worries she might infect her mother if they were meaning three or more cases living together. involving residents or staff had been confirmed at the facility. her love. … I can’t love her enough. emeritus at UC San Francisco’s are Covid-19 positive. advises the homes to quarantine That was nearly quadruple the I can’t kiss her enough.” School of Nursing. Those nursing homes will “do those patients and make sure staff number of nursing-home outbreaks Now, with the coronavirus “The risk of exposure is so their best, they’ll try to contain members have access to protective county officials had announced on loose, the facility is essentially on overwhelming,” said Harrington, it, but people will run out of equipment — which has been in March 27. lockdown, Maisch said. But he and who has studied nursing homes (protective equipment), caregivers short supply everywhere — and that The county’s Department of his dog, Sophie, are still allowed to since the 1980s. “It’s a terrible will get sick, and people will they are trained in using it. Public Health is also investigating go outside to the courtyard. Every concern.” die,” said David A Nace, clinical Even with all the concerns, some reports of at least one suspected morning at 6, he takes the black- Even before the recent outbreak, chief of geriatric medicine for of the most well-informed family coronavirus infection at nine and-white spaniel for a walk, then Harrington said, there were less- the University of Pittsburgh members are making the hard additional nursing homes. Of comes in to read newspapers: The than-ideal conditions at many Department of Medicine. “New choice to leave loved ones where the county’s 54 deaths from Times, the Wall Street Journal and facilities across the state. Much York will have killed people. There’s they are, hoping to ride out the coronavirus, at least six have been the Boston Globe, among others. of the work is done by certified no way to soften that statement. It’s crisis. nursing-home residents. Maisch said some of the facility’s nurse assistants, who have limited such a vulnerable population.” Peter Beilenson, the health Debbie Alexander’s 74-year- staff has left since the outbreak, training in infection control and are Dr Michael Wasserman, a director of Sacramento County, is old mother is at the Kensington which he understands. He has been paid minimum wage, she said. geriatrician for more than 30 years among them. He said he believes in Redondo Beach, another of the told one person tested positive, To make ends meet, workers and president of the California most nursing homes in the state LA County facilities battling an and five others were removed over often patch together shifts at two or Association of Long Term Care are doing all they can under dire outbreak. concerns related to the outbreak. three facilities and work even when Medicine, is lobbying California circumstances. When Alexander heard about the But in general, he said, he feels safe. they don’t feel well. regulators not to follow a similar A few days ago, he went by his first case from administrators, she “I understand what’s going on, “They don’t have sick leave; they policy. mother’s assisted-living facility but considered pulling her mom out, and I understand they are doing don’t have health insurance,” she “If a hospital thinks they are was unable to touch her. but there was nowhere available to everything they can,” he said. “I said. “They’re going to come to going to save lives by sending a “I stood outside and delivered move her that would necessarily be feel comfortable that they’ve done work.” 90-year-old to a nursing home some packages to her and was not safer. a good job.” Also concerning to nursing- so they can get a 20-year-old on allowed in,” Beilenson said. “We Alexander, who is still going to Officials at the Kensington home administrators and a ventilator, they’re right, they came to the window and put our work at a research laboratory at declined to specify how many physicians is guidance from federal will save a life. But in three weeks hands together.” a San Diego hospital, worries she residents or staff have tested and some state regulators to accept they are going to get 30 patients In a press release on Tuesday, might infect her mother if they positive, or whether any residents new residents and those returning back from the nursing home,” Paul Barron, administrator at were living together. have died of Covid-19. from hospitals without proof that Wasserman said. Garden Crest, acknowledged that While she’s nervous, Alexander Families with loved ones in they are virus-free. Current guidance from the at least one resident had tested said, she’s satisfied with the nursing homes should consider Hospitals in are so California Department of Public positive. He did not say how many measures administrators at the pulling them out if it’s at all feasible burdened for space that regulators Health advises nursing homes to others had. Kensington are taking to try to to care for them at home, said there ordered nursing homes to take be prepared to accept patients with Labrador knows of at least two. control the outbreak. They are Charlene Harrington, professor in discharged patients even if they the coronavirus from hospitals and After the first call last week to not allowing visitors to enter, and inform her family that a resident residents are mostly confined had tested positive, another call to their rooms. Residents’ came a few days later with dreadful temperatures are taken twice per news: Her dad had tested positive day. And administrators are sending too. a daily e-mail update. “The risk of She and her siblings can’t visit “Obviously, I’m worried about him anymore, and it’s difficult to mom. She’s very high-risk. But I exposure is so communicate by phone, she said, think they are doing everything because he has dementia. They they can,” Alexander said. overwhelming. manage to FaceTime with him every Len Maisch, 84, said he moved It’s a terrible other day or so. into the Kensington about five “It’s terrible,” she said, adding weeks ago to care for his wife Joann, concern” that, so far, he hasn’t shown any 71, who was diagnosed with a fatal symptoms. “What if he does get and degenerative brain disease. sicker? What are we going to do?” They sold their Hermosa Beach — Charlene For now, she and her siblings home, a beloved place with citrus are taking things one day at a trees, when Joann could no longer Harrington, time. They hope. They pray. And use the stairs. they imagine ways to get to their “When you have someone you professor stricken father. truly love, you try not to leave them “If I have to get a hazmat suit to in a facility alone,” Maisch said. emeritus see my dad,” Labrador said, “that’s “She’s a beautiful flower, and she’s what I’ll be doing.” wilting, and so all you can do is give — Los Angeles Times/TNS 6 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY GARDENING Grow your own microgreens Check your garden, path edges – even the back of your kitchen cupboard. Then get sprouting, writes Alys Fowler

he hungry gap is sprouted chickpeas, beans, spelt, traditionally that rye and barley. The day after they moment when winter begin to sprout, use them in the stores are dwindling same way you would dried pulses; and spring greens are you’ll find they cook in half the Tnot quite ready: just about now. Of time. course, when there’s a virus around Find a large, clean glass jar, a as hazardous as Covid-19, it takes square of muslin and a rubber on a whole new meaning. band. Discard any seeds that are You probably have a larder full of damaged, then add a handful pasta and tins by now, and perhaps to your jar. Add at least double a freezer full of peas; but fresh the volume of water, and soak greens may be harder to come by. overnight, covering the jar with Growing super-quick windowsill the muslin. In the morning, rinse greens will allow you to sprinkle and drain the seeds. To allow a nutrients and vitamins over dishes, maximum surface for sprouting, the adding flavour and boosting your jar is best laid on its side, propped immunity. Curried baked beans up slightly so any excess water can served with a delicate heap of fresh drain away through the muslin. coriander and kale seedlings is a Most seeds need a temperature of mighty lot more tasty (and healthful) about 15C to sprout fastest, so room than without. temperature is fine. Twice a day, it is Getting your hands on the essential you rinse the sprouts. Fill quickest, nutrient-packed greens the jar with water, give everything a doesn’t require you to do any good swirl around and then refresh growing, just some weeding. Right the water. Your seeds should sprout now your garden, particularly if you quickly; if they linger more than five are the sort to shun gardening, is days, consider them compost. already dotted with free food that is Microgreens can be harvested good for you. at between 10 and 21 days, when Bittercress, Cardamine hirsuta, they are several centimetres high. is one of my favourite salad greens: These leaves may be small, but they a tiny rosette-forming weed with are packed full of nutrients; there’s a flavour somewhere between evidence to show that they have wasabi and rocket – and not a hint higher levels of antioxidants and of bitterness. You can eat it at any other bioactive compounds than stage, but it’s particularly good when mature vegetables. in flower, which happens to be now. QUICK AND EASY: Sprouting mung beans. Parsnips, beans, rhubarb and Look for it in damp spots, around the anything in the Solanaceae family base of pots and at path edges. (tomatoes, peppers) cannot be eaten Chickweed, Stellaria media, is as seedling plants; everything else rich in vitamin C and a delicious is fair game. The quickest-growing alternative to lettuce; it makes will be radish and rocket. Kale and a great base for salads or can be broccoli score highly in terms of whizzed up raw into a very good nutrients (vitamin E) so I would pesto for all that pasta. Again, it likes favour them and any other brassicas bare ground, damp spots and edges. (brussels sprouts, cabbages, kohlrabi) Both these plants are low-growing over lettuce, which would have to and will need a good wash to avoid be added in huge quantities to make getting grit in your salad. any difference to a dish’s nutritional Finally, there’s dandelion, an profile. excellent tonic, particularly for the The path to flavourful bursts of liver, and rich in potassium. Pick the vitamins and minerals begins with youngest leaves for raw salads. They compost, some seeds and something work well with potatoes, onions, and to grow them in. No small plant pots? those tinned sardines you’ve been Raid the recycling bin for yoghurt stockpiling. containers and takeaway trays. If you don’t have a garden, then It’s fine to reuse compost as well, check the back of your cupboard for because the seedlings get everything something to sprout. Dried mung, they need from their own stores and adzuki and soya beans, chickpeas, the sun. This is the time to use up all whole lentils, barley, rye, spelt, those half-opened packets that are sweetcorn, kale, fenugreek, radish out of date. Most of the seeds will no and mustard seed can all be used, as longer be viable, so sow thickly on long as they are seeds suitable for the surface of the compost, water in eating (ordinary garden seeds may and keep damp until germination. A have been treated with chemicals so clear plastic bag or propagator lid is are not suitable). ideal for helping the process along. Sprouting will take one to five Once the seedlings are large days. You can eat the whole sprout enough to handle, snip them off raw, seed and all, but don’t eat and use as a garnish. To maximise too many of the legumes, raw or nutrients, do this just before cooked, or you’ll get indigestion. serving your meal. Bon appétit. You can also try cooking with NUTRITIOUS : The leaves of broccoli microgreens may be small, but they are packed full of nutrients. — The Guardian Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 7 HOBBY COMMUNITY

ENDING THE DAY: For many people, settling in with a good book to spend a few minutes reading is the best way to end the day. Daylight saving time means more time to read in bed

at night is my way of calming likes to read herself to sleep. “Most By Laurie Hertzel myself down and preparing for a of my reading is done in bed, curled good night’s sleep.” up with the dogs,” she writes. “It’s Another reader (who asked not my oasis at the end of the day. ast month we all lost an to be named) likes soothing books Sometimes I don’t get beyond hour of sleep. If you’re at night – “I’ll read The Wind in the reaching for the book and finding like me, ever since Willows, Beatrix Potter, Maud Hart where I left off.” daylight saving time Lovelace, and Alexander McCall Reading before you sleep could started you’ve been Smith,” she wrote. “Our previous relax you significantly. A study headingL to bed at what feels like a golden retriever would jump on the highlighted in the Telegraph by ridiculously early time, not drowsy bed as soon as I started reading, and the University of Sussex raised a in the least. when he fell over asleep, I would number of participants stress levels I try to think of this not as less usually do the same.” and then attempted to reduce them. time for sleeping, but as more time At the moment, Howie Smith of Cognitive Neuropsychologist Dr for reading. Minneapolis is rereading another David Lewis found that ‘reading At the end of a long, hard day, it’s soothing book – William Least worked best, reducing stress levels such a relief to slide into bed. Face Heat-Moon’s Blue Highways. by 68 per cent’. It was better than washed, teeth brushed, wearing “It’s taking me forever, which listening to music (61%), drinking your most comfortable nightclothes is perfectly fine,” he writes. “His tea or coffee (54%) and taking a and relaxed between your soft meandering journey is a perfect walk (42%). It only took 6 minutes sheets — what could be better? tonic to fall asleep to. I can only for participants’ stress levels to be For many people, settling in with a hope every night my dreams pick reduced. good book to spend a few minutes up where he leaves off and I journey Elaine K. Murray of Minneapolis reading is the best way to end the around the back roads of America.” finds books by the bedside to be day. But Rita Berens of Mendota “a godsend for those of us who Whether you prefer an e-reader Heights cautioned that reading in are awake at 3am, tormented by or old-school books, a great story bed can be detrimental to a good the demons in the dark corners of melts away stress. And a little night’s sleep. She went through a the mind or frightened by horrid luxury or a gadget or two that adds sleep study some years ago, which, nightmares. A little paperback you to the experience makes reading she said, reset her sleep clock can prop on your pillow is the thing; in bed that much better. If you are successfully. some escapist reading. I like a looking for a way to thrill a book- “One of their many vintage mystery for the purpose.” lover, or give yourself some much- recommendations was the use of RELAX: Reading before you sleep could relax you significantly, study. Meanwhile, Julie Fermenick of needed pampering, any of these the bed. It was a strict rule: The bed Woodbury tries to read in bed but items should do the trick is used only for sleep or nap. To use advice to insomniacs to go read from plays and books. Favourites doesn’t always succeed. “I’m with A few weeks ago, I wrote about it otherwise (watching TV, eating, elsewhere till drowsy.” lately have included Yeats’ The Andy Rooney: ‘I never put a book reading in bed, and it’s clear from reading), is telling your brain that So what she does instead, “with Second Coming, the names of the down; it always falls down,’?” she your many responses that you all it can be stimulated and energised both eyes still closed, is to drift US presidents in order, words to says. “I can’t read more than a few have strong opinions about this, too in multiple ways here. It sends the back to sleep by silently ‘reading’ to hymns and soft rock hits, and – minutes without falling asleep. I – what to read, where to read. wrong message to your body.” myself something compelling that an oldie but goodie from Miss rewake in a few minutes and end up “I read in bed every night,” writes Reader Mary Knatterud of S. Paul I’ve memorized. Lydia Buslee’s high school English reading the same passages over and Carol Britt of Eden Prairie. “I am understands that, but is “loath to “To vary my repertoire, I (re)learn class – Macbeth’s Tomorrow, and over again.” currently reading This Tender Land climb out from under a cosy duvet by heart, by day, a rotating corpus, tomorrow, and tomorrow.?” That sounds like a success to me. by William Kent Krueger. Reading in order to follow the standard e.g., poems, lists, lyrics, passages Kathleen Vashro of Corcoran also – Star Tribune (Minneapolis)/TNS 8 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY PETS Our beloved pets have never been more important They are time-keepers, normality-bringers and playthings. Here’s the science behind how cats and dogs help support our mental health, writes Jules Howare

LENDING A HELPING PAW: Many cats are only too happy to sit with their owners while they work from home.

et’s start with some now used to her human cohabitees and curves the base of his tail on a person’s blood pressure of the minds might be more likely to live updates from pets always being around). And then against my chin so that his back is simple act of stroking an animal. It acquire pets. The fact that our across the country. there’s Ada. Ada is barking very yet again within inches of my face. does not seem to matter too much supermarkets are short of loo-roll As I write this, I’m loud because she always barks very I dodge and weave my head to see which type of pet we stroke, dogs at the moment does not mean that informed that Oscar the loud. And many, many dogs are the computer screen. But for all the and cats, snakes or goats. Pet- everyone is going to the toilet more Ldog is delighting in hoovering up barking because their humans are annoyance he is causing me, I have owners also appear to make fewer often. the extra scraps from under the having important Zoom meetings never loved Junior more. visits to the doctor and sleep more Surveys allow pet-owners to kitchen table after the kids have that must not be disturbed. I am not the only cat owner soundly than those who lack such judge for themselves how they are eaten their home-school snacks In another house in another part having this kind of experience. non-human company. feeling and an array of impressive and lunches. Morph, another dog of Britain, two rats called Celeste Many other cats are walking on But not all studies show quite statistics abound in such studies. in a different house, has become and Casio have been given free keyboards, nudging phones out of such clear benefits. Some suggest Last year, in a Cats Protection a regular pillow for a one-year- rein. Their owners see no reason human hands or pinning home- the reverse, and some of those survey of 2,000 cat owners, an old. Yet another dog, Angus, is to keep them caged, as they are all workers into their chairs for hours involve analysis of more than overwhelming nine out of 10 said spending the afternoon in the housebound now. Sally (a canary) on end. Nearly all of these cats 20,000 data points. In Finland, their pets helped to provide better upstairs bedroom, watching dogs has begun chirping incessantly will, I am told, be stroked with for instance, pet owners were mental health. Surveys by the running around in the park. The while Netflix is on, while a tortoise great glee and only one will be discovered to be more, not less, animal welfare charity Blue Cross dogs there run wild and free, their called Claude cares not a whit called a “monstrous ball ache” by likely to have higher blood pressure support this finding. In a recent forlorn owners caged in invisible about global events. its owner, a fellow author. and cholesterol levels. paper, it reported that 43% of two-metre boxes. Meanwhile, My own cat, Junior, is on my lap There is an assumption that Why the conflicting results? respondents agreed that their pets someone else informs me that her as I type – one-handed, because he pets can boost our mental health, Mostly, it’s because life is messy. were “crucial in keeping my mental dog, Molly, is barking profusely has immobilised my left arm. He and it is true that many studies Many studies fail to account for health in check”. because she, the owner, has gone is desperate for love, as always. He link pets with a lowering of stress socioeconomic circumstances. Loneliness is an emotional momentarily out of view. (Molly is pushes into the crotch of my elbow – usually by measuring the effect Or those with happy, healthy problem pets can help reduce. Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 9 PETS COMMUNITY Our beloved pets have never been more important

PHYSICAL STIMULATION: A little rest time together is always welcome, but dogs need mental and physical stimulation. SIGNS OF STRESS: In dogs, signs of stress include aimless pacing, licking the skin (especially feet and paws), whining or even withdrawing from social interaction. Anxiety can result in them becoming destructive, chewing at doors or windowsills, as well as household furniture.

EMOTIONAL THERAPY: Loneliness is an emotional problem pets can help reduce. The presence of a dog or cat as a companion correlates well with PRO: Pet-owners also appear to make fewer visits to the doctor and sleep more soundly than those who lack such non- reducing loneliness in women who live alone, older people and, perhaps, human company. homeless people.

The presence of a dog or cat as a I look at Junior, our cat, asleep cooler” during this crisis – a place licking the skin (especially feet and measure. So, yes – our pets will companion correlates well with on the corner of the table, his head where family tensions could be paws), whining or even withdrawing help many of us get through this, reducing loneliness in women resting on my lap. He is one of the worked out in a different social from social interaction. Anxiety can but we need to be there for them, who live alone, older people and, most beautiful things I have ever space. Our own cats have become result in them becoming destructive, too. We should continue to delight perhaps, homeless people. Trials seen. We are so lucky to have him that place, too. When the pressure chewing at doors or windowsills, as in their enhanced role as time- in one study show that loneliness in our lives. Junior is one of two mounts, we find ourselves seeking well as household furniture.” If the keepers, normality-bringers, in nursing homes could even be house cats, both recent rescues. out and stroking the cats, letting numbers of dog walks are restricted, stress-relievers, partners, reduced by caring for a robotic This past three weeks of isolation off steam. he says the best thing is to keep play-things and beings we can dog. are the first proper opportunity At no point in human history have them mentally active with treats admire, laugh at and connect But pets don’t always resolve I have had to get to know their so many pets been so important to and games. The PDSA has brilliant with. Animals that can soothe, loneliness. Sometimes, they can routines. That they both sleep so many people. We used to have advice for those seeking more but never eliminate, the deep make it worse. One person who together in the day on the top bunk stable jobs and a stable world. Now information about keeping pets, and concerns and worries many of us responded to me this week said of the girls’ bedroom. That they we just have stable pets – that are their minds, in good condition. now have. they were lonely because their pet divide their gazing-out-of-the- keeping many of us sane. Though we do know that, in a Junior crawls back on to my had recently died and they were window time equally between each But this leads to another, equally limited number of cases, cats are lap. His purring muffles the dark stuck in an empty house, grief- of the upstairs windowsills. That important question. Will our pets capable of carrying the virus, the voices in my head. His whiskers stricken. I heard from people who one of them likes to sit on the floor thrive emotionally? Or will they evidence suggests that they are tickle my cheek. I try my best to were away from home, looking of the downstairs toilet, waiting get sick of us being around them so incapable of spreading it back stare into the void but, once again, after ill relatives hundreds of miles beside a tiny hole in the skirting much? We will need to get better to humans. Still, the advice may his disgusting backside is getting away, and who missed their pets board from which a family of tiny at spotting indicators of pet stress, change in the weeks to come. in the way. He lies on his back dearly. And others, such as nurses, silverfish sometimes emerges. says vet and animal scientist Sean Already, vets are advising that cats and I rub his glossy tummy. For who missed their pets during their Someone told me that their cat McCormack. “In dogs, signs of in infected households should be us both, things feel momentarily long days at work. had become the house’s “water- stress include aimless pacing, kept indoors as a precautionary better. –The Guardian 10 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY INFOGRAPHIC Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 11 LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE COMMUNITY Suffering skin damage from face masks? Experts offer remedies

while after maintaining some social up of polypropylene which is a By Bharat Upadhyay distancing and keep changing the non woven fabric. Disposable N95 mask every 8-9 hours, the doctor surgical respirators consist of four said. layers and the innermost layer octors, nurses and “Doctors need to be very coming in contact with the skin is healthcare personnel cautious as in this profession social also made up of polypropylene,” fighting Covid-19 from distancing is not possible all the Agarwal said. the front lines have to time. To avoid getting infected, “Although polypropylene is spend many hours a they have to wear a mask which considered to be the safest of all Dday wearing face masks. Although needs to have adequate tightness. plastics, it can cause skin allergies it offers invaluable protection, It is very pertinent that there has to in rare cases, especially if the mask health experts have stressed that be an adequate pressure which can is wet and worn for long hours. sweating and the rubbing of the cause a fair amount of pressure on “These masks also have a masks against the nose may lead to the nasal bridge, surrounding cheek malleable aluminium nose strip significant skin damage. and jawbone,” Mahajan told IANS. placed for a tighter seal of the nose. However, following some simple Wearing masks for a long time This, in turn, can cause allergic tips like keeping the skin clean, can cause rashes, dryness, acne or contact dermatitis, frictional well-hydrated and moisturised can pimple formation and dermatitis, dermatitis and frictional melanosis help one avoid skin damage from the doctor said. over the nose,” she told IANS. face masks, according to a recent Manjul Agarwal, Senior According to the doctor, the study, published in the Journal of Consultant, Dermatology, Fortis moisture which collects from also be aggravated due to sweat ears can cause pain and contact Wound Care. Hospital in Shalimar Bagh, New exhalation inside the mask collection. dermatitis in the retroauricular Dermatologist DM Mahajan of Delhi said that surgical face especially at body temperature can “If any occlusive topicals like region,” Agarwal said. Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals in masks and N95 respirator masks provide a perfect setting for the oil-based moisturisers and makeup “Frequent changing of the New Delhi also said that deeply when used properly provide bacteria to thrive and may cause are applied prior to the application mask, mask free time in between moisturising the skin is important adequate protection against infections like folliculitis, especially of masks, they can lead to blockage if possible may be practised to for people who need to wear masks infectious diseases transmitted in men with heavy beards. of skin pores causing sebum prevent these dermatological for a long time. by respiratory droplets. “Surgical Pre-existing dermatoses like accumulation and acne. The tight adverse effects,” she noted. If possible, take off the mask for a facemasks are commonly made acne and fungal infections may elastic bands stretching over the – IANS

Aries Taurus Gemini March 21 — April 19 April 20 — May 20 May 21 — June 20

An important lost object, perhaps a paper of some kind, could Someone or something has disappeared, Taurus. Gossip could You could have some paperwork to do today, Gemini, which could command the attention of your entire household, Aries. This could spread like wildfire as everyone imagines the worst. Listening make a big difference to your financial future. This could be a contract, prove frustrating at first, because you will know that it has to be to rumours probably doesn’t appeal to your sense of fairness; settlement, or agreement of some kind. Whatever it is, you may need somewhere in the house, but you can’t find it anywhere! The item nonetheless, you’re wondering, too. Your comrades will probably to seek some assistance before you execute it. The language might be may reappear just as you’ve given up on it, in a place you never experience a mixture of relief and disappointment when this person/ difficult to understand, and some of the clauses might not feel right to would have imagined! Tip: it’s probably hidden among other objects. thing turns up. you. This can be frustrating, but it’s important to do it today. Cancer Leo Virgo June 21 — July 22 July 23 — August 22 August 23 — September 22

The study of psychology might be especially appealing today, Occult sciences, such as alchemy, phrenology, and astrology, could A group activity could lead to discussions of famous unsolved Cancer. Some new discoveries that you may have heard about in the be singing their siren song to you, Leo. You like to think of yourself mysteries, Virgo. Jack the Ripper, the Black Dahlia, the truth about OJ media could have piqued your interest and might propel you to the as down to Earth and realistic, but today you could find so-called Simpson, and other intriguing problems might capture the interest library to find books on the subject. This is a good time to pursue unrealistic fields of knowledge irresistible. You’ll also have a special of everyone present, and might lead to some animated debates this. Your mind is in the right space to understand it, and it could gift for them right now. Read up on the subject and give it a try. You over possible solutions. You might want to make mental notes of the shed a lot of light on those around you, including you! might be surprised at what you discover. ideas everyone comes up with. Libra Scorpio Sagittarius September 23 — October 22 October 23 — November 21 November 22 — December 21

A young colleague could leave your place of employment under Spiritual occurrences could lead to a very powerful healing experience, Do you like detective stories, Sagittarius? If so, you may find them strange circumstances, Libra, and this could come as a shock to Scorpio. Repressed past traumas could come to the surface and be useful today as you play the role of Sherlock Holmes. A missing you. You may have been quite fond of this person, and find yourself processed and released. This could leave you feeling rather dazed, as object, intellectual problem, or mystery of some kind could have you wondering about the truth behind the departure. Gossip may buzz, this purging could open a gap in your psyche. Don’t worry; eventually it curious enough to search for the truth. This is a good way to train but don’t pay any attention to it. Chances are it’s a health problem, will fill with new knowledge and insights instead of psychic garbage! For your powers of observation, although intuition will probably play a but no one, including your colleague, feels comfortable discussing it. now, take a walk. It will clear your head and help you deal with it all. strong role in your success. Go to it, and have fun! Capricorn Aquarius Pisces December 22 — January 19 January 20 — February 18 February 19 — March 20

A business or a partner may seem a bit preoccupied with some very Some rather extensive and annoying paperwork might need to be A fascinating article you read in the newspaper could inspire you to serious matters today, Capricorn, and not be likely to share them dealt with, Aquarius. It will probably require all your attention, so if try to create a mystery story of your own, Pisces. Today your mind is with you. Asking to talk about it won’t work, so you’ll probably end up you can, take care of it first thing in the morning when you’re still perfectly suited to devising plot twists and interesting but complex depending on your intuition. Your friend is probably concerned with the fresh. This might be a contract or it could be an insurance policy or characters. You could tell the story to children, or you might even health of a family member who may need surgery. Don’t feel excluded. something else full of unintelligible jargon. Don’t be afraid to ask decide to turn it into a novel. Jot down your ideas and look at them Your friend will talk when the time is right. Be patient! someone familiar with it to explain the language to you. again tomorrow. If you want to continue, then go for it! 12 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY CARTOONS/PUZZLES

Wordsearch Adam

Pooch Cafe

ABSTRACTION IDEA VISION FANTASY THEORY DREAM REVERIE CONCEIT NOTION ASPIRATION IMAGE FANCY HUNCH THOUGHT PERCEPTION SCHEME CONCEPT BRAINWAVE INTUITION

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, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 13 PUZZLES COMMUNITY

Super Cryptic Clues Colouring

Across Down 1 I’m amused about cold area in 1 Drink made Noel tipsy (8) pub (5) 2 A tree that’s cared about (5) 4 Pig accepting messy home in 3 Old soldiers dance (7) a way (7) 4 Bashful about a couple of 8 Pop star having celebration bishops? That’s contemptible (6) with heavenly food brought 5 An insect, say, not very bright, round (7) ascending (5) 9 Traced, tied, and taken out (5) 6 Cheer for revolution in Teheran 10 Bottle never cracked (5) (7) 11 If possible, attend to some 7 Pale old penny that’s used by a animal sound (5) magician (4) 13 Block request for woven 12 Hypocrite taking pence before material (6) he accepts a pay increase (8) 15 Tool found by architect in 14 Horrible bra came undone (7) front of church (6) 16 Staff going round gallery, 18 In the centre of San Francisco showing what Turner did? (7) Michael Palin’s amusing (5) 17 Man with cue, getting break, 20 Row about head of displays keen perception (6) government being an aggressive 19 Roman god penning English type (5) horses (5) 23 Warning when first couple 21 Inexperienced have left room (5) environmentalist (5) 24 Expressions of discontent, 22 Disney characters seen from say, in manuscript (7) low altitude (4) 25 Turncoat’s first motive for Answers disloyalty (7) 26 Thick poles in river (5) Wordsearch Codeword Solution 14 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY REVIEWS Disneynature documentary is gorgeous if much too obvious Delta, near the end of a much-needed flood own without the accompanying voiceover By Justin Chang season. Once the delta dries up, as it does sentiment: “Gaia never gives up and will every year on schedule, the elephants will never leave family behind.” begin their long trek in search of another Ah yes, Gaia. That is the name given to the y sheer coincidence, the new lush green oasis. Death from thirst is an wise and weary matriarch leading her fellow feature-length documentary ever-present danger as the elephants wend elephants on this months-long mission. narrated by Meghan Markle – or their way from one watering hole to the next, She will eventually be succeeded by her as she is billed on screen, Meghan, with little room for navigational error. In the younger sister, Shani, who strives to prove the Duchess of Sussex – is about movie’s most poignant image, one elephant herself worthy of the role while looking after Ba majestic family whose way of life, though mournfully caresses a fallen comrade’s her rambunctious 1-year-old calf, Jomo. rooted in centuries-old traditions, has bleached-white skeleton with its trunk, as The impulse to individuate wild animals by never felt more imperiled. That’s probably if in grim acknowledgment of the fate that name – to transform camera subjects into a misleading way to characterise a herd could soon await them all. characters – is understandable enough in the of pachyderms making their dangerous Their survival story is full of natural peril context of a kid-friendly entertainment. It’s annual migration across hundreds of miles and fearsome predators, especially when it also one of several structural and aesthetic of parched Kalahari Desert in southern leads them on a risky shortcut through lion choices, the hand-holding narration and Africa. Or maybe it’s appropriate: After all, country or directly into the path of a crocodile Ramin Jawadi’s relentless musical score Elephant, like most of the Disneynature films ambush. There are lighter, more heartening among them, that can’t help but feel vaguely before it, is not exactly shy about projecting moments too, like when an enormous bull infantilising. It’s as if the filmmakers (they recognisable human motivations onto its elephant shakes a high branch, bringing include the co-directors Vanessa Berlowitz animal characters and encouraging us to do down enough nutrient-rich seed pods for and Alastair Fothergill) thought we could only the same. his hungry friends to feed on. Like more than care about these marvelous animals if we saw This is not entirely a bad thing, and a few nature documentaries, Elephant is a them as extensions of ourselves, if they were the movie, which began streaming last beautifully shot, precisely calculated weave served up in the most relatable, emotionally Friday on Disney+, emerges a generally of high drama and mischievous hijinks, a palatable way possible. charming, sometimes cloying exercise in highlight reel assembled from what must That push for palatability probably wildlife anthropomorphism. The English have been months of patient, relatively explains why some pertinent details writer-director Mark Linfield has directed uneventful observation. about the human impact on this fragile earlier documentaries in this vein including In the well-worn but inexhaustible genre of environment – from the ongoing slaughter Chimpanzee and Monkey Kingdom, and in the nature documentary, the imposition of a of elephants by poachers throughout Africa, of cute critters and easily digestible uplift, the elephant, he has an especially beautiful coherent narrative onto patterns of mundane to the susceptibility of these heavily water- has long been par for the Disney course. and remarkably cinematic subject. To some animal behaviour is less a compromise than dependent creatures to climate change Indeed, watching this movie’s opening and extent, you can read drama and emotion in a built-in convention. Even so, it’s hard not – go conspicuously unmentioned in a film closing scenes, with their triumphant music every gesture, in every slow, regal step and to wish that this particular narrative were ostensibly designed to educate its audience. and numerous bird, baboon and antelope every gentle sway of the trunk. less manipulated, less prone to making These concerns are hardly incidental here; reaction shots, you might feel as though And so Markle’s warm, insistently upbeat presumptuous, how-exactly-do-you-know- they’re crucial to the work of Elephants you’re seeing a (mercifully CGI-free) outtake descriptions of the on-screen activity that leaps into the memory and psychology of Without Borders, a charity to which Disney from the studio’s recent redo of The Lion (written by Linfield and David Fowler) can’t its subjects. The sight of an elephant pulling made a large donation in exchange for King. Which you can also watch, of course, help but feel a touch redundant: “It’s time a young calf stuck face-down in the mud, Markle’s voiceover fee. on Disney+, one more addition to the studio’s for a pool party!” she declares as the entire rescuing it from near-certain suffocation, Good for them. Even so, the avoidance of endless content-streaming circle of life. – Los herd joyously splashes about in the Okavango is harrowing and heroic enough on its tough truths and political realities, in favour Angeles Times/TNS Netflix’s action-comedy is unfunny, cacophonous kid-swearing mess

and enjoy a far more peaceful Yet even more melee ensues, trenchant. They just sort of hang By Katie Walsh evening. repeatedly, while Coffee and in the air like bad memories. Is The main comedic fulcrum of Kareem hit the streets together now, or ever, the right time to mine Coffee & Kareem is that well-worn, trying to save themselves and that collective cultural wound for he best part of Netflix’s worn-thin writerly device: children Vanessa, until the blessed end of laughs? new action – “comedy” swearing. The cherubic Gardenhigh this noisy and annoying 88-minute The refusal to land on a Coffee & Kareem, from is tasked with delivering reams caper. consistent tone is the downfall Stuber director Michael and reams of dirty dialogue. Coffee & Kareem has a lot in of Coffee & Kareem, in which Dowse, is right there Kareem, indeed, thinks his special common with Stuber: a vehicular cartoonishly shocking violence is inT the cute, punny title. And talent is talking smack (he doesn’t setting, an odd-couple friendship, coupled with the strange familial that’s it. The title is the best part. say “smack,” as you could have a hard-hitting female police officer bonding between the titular pair. One could assume screenwriter surmised). His big mouth gets him with some things to hide (here she Boundary-pushing precocious Shane Mack, in his feature debut, in trouble at school, and it gets him is played with the customary vigor naughty kid comedy can be a tricky came up with the clever title and in trouble with a few gangsters on Betty Gilpin brings to even the most line to walk, a line Coffee & Kareem expanded from there, crafting a the lam for a drug bust when he thankless roles). The action and doesn’t bother even toeing. It blaxploitation-inspired raunchy seeks out their help intimidating comedy are also similarly clumsy. just blows the line up. The whole buddy movie. Who’s Coffee? Well, his mom’s cop boyfriend, who has What’s so wrong with a little thing is a profoundly irritating, that’s Officer James Coffee (Ed picked him up from school that light, ultra-violent humour as cacophonous mess that would be Helms), a dorky Detroit police afternoon. escapism? If only the humour wildly offensive, except, of course, officer. Who’s Kareem (Terrence A melee ensues, naturally, in were humorous. Coffee & Kareerm that characters always helpfully Little Gardenhigh)? He’s the foul- which Kareem captures video on whipsaws wildly between potty- state that something is wildly mouthed pubescent son of Coffee’s his smartphone of the gangsters mouthed material with a particular offensive. Betty Gilpin deserves new girlfriend, Vanessa (Taraji P murdering another police officer, focus on reproductive organs, better. Taraji P. Henson deserves Henson). You can likely extrapolate and even evidence of police and “edgy” jokes about police better. Ed Helms deserves better. the rest of the movie from there, corruption in said drug bust. brutality that are neither funny nor And we do too. – TNS Thursday, April 9, 2020 GULF TIMES 15 SHOWBIZ COMMUNITY

Look out for mental health “Since all of us are practising social Matthew plays virtual bingo with in these times: Sidharth distancing and are under lockdown, senior facility residents we do have a lot of time on our hands Actor Sidharth Malhotra has apart from all the agencies, medical Oscar-winning actor stressed on the need to work on staff, police and other people who are Matthew McConaughey, mental health along with physical working day and night… This is the along with his wife Camila health, saying everyone needs to best time where you can spend maybe Alves and his mother Kay, remain “extremely positive, hopeful half an hour a day doing some kind of hosted a game of bingo for and appreciate all the basic things physical activity within the house. It senior residents at a senior in life”. could be walking, free hand exercise, citizens’ living community “This year on World Health Day, playing sports, or skipping,” he said. in Texas. India and the world is going through The actor continued: “I look at In a video clip shared on a very crucial and very unfortunate fitness from a very holistic point of Facebook Alves can be seen time where we are fighting this virus view. I won’t even just say physical taking photographs of the which is extremely deadly. The only exercise. It is mental health as well, bingo participants who are way to fight it is social distancing, where we have to keep and realise playing through a meeting hence the lockdown within the that at times like these you need to app, reports femalefirst. country and around the world,” be extremely positive, hopeful and co.uk Sidharth said. appreciate all the basic things in life, The video has been posted “I am hoping that everyone is workout aside. So, also look out for to the facility’s Facebook HOST: Matthew McConaughey and following it because it is for their your mental health. We have all the page. his family hosted a game of bingo for benefit and for the society. It time in the world to spend it with The caption of the clip senior residents in Texas. makes us realise how important family and I am hoping people are reads: “Ever play virtual health is and environment is. I am making good use of the time.” INTROSPECTIVE: Sidharth bingo with #MatthewMcConaughey? You’d be a whole lot cooler if hoping that everyone appreciates The Ek Villain star also thanks the Malhotra feels that we are mere you did! The residents at The Enclave at Round Rock Senior Living the fact that they are healthy and “all the medical professionals who are guests on this earth and not the got to play virtual bingo with #MatthewMcConaughey and his can move around once they get out working night and day without any master. family! and are more conscious of what break in such crucial and dangerous “Thank you to Matthew, his wife Camila, and his mom Kay they do with their nutrition or the times for our benefit”. Sidharth feels that the severe for hosting our residents for a few rounds of virtual bingo! Our environment around them,” he “Whatever, I say is less … They times have made him “realise that residents had a great time playing, and they loved talking with added are the real heroes. Along with the we are mere guests on this earth and Matthew about his family heritage and his favourite food.” The actor believes in having a medical staff, I would like to thank not the master”. In a second video from the virtual bingo game, one of the facility’s holistic approach towards wellness the police, cleaning staff and people “Whenever we come back to our employees thanks the actor for his support. All residents held up and health, and that’s what he hopes who ensure that we get our essentials. normal lives we need to realise that green signs featuring some of the actor’s most memorable quotes, everyone tries to achieve during these They are doing a fabulous job. They and remember that ,” he said. – including one from the 2019 movie Serenity. The quote read: “If I testing times. are the real heroes.” IANS didn’t catch a fish all day I’d find a way to kill you.” – IANS Country folk legend Prine dies of coronavirus complications

ountry folk singer John Prine, the “Singing Mailman.” Singer-songwriter who received a Grammy lifetime Kris Kristofferson, helped him get a record achievement award this year, deal. passed away due to complications Bruce Springsteen wrote on of coronavirus. He was 73. following Prine’s death: “John and I were CPrine died on Tuesday, confirmed ‘New Dylans’ together in the early 70s and the singer-songwriter’s publicist while he was never anything but the loveliest guy representing his family. in the world. A true national treasure and a “Yes, we can confirm on behalf of the Prine songwriter for the ages. We send our love and family – John died today at Vanderbilt due to prayers to his family.” complications of Covid-19,” the publicist told Prine’s debut album, in 1971, was a critical cnn.com success. It contains several of his signature The musician was hospitalised and songs, including Paradise, about the Western intubated last month after a “sudden onset” Kentucky town where his parents grew up, of coronavirus symptoms, according to and Hello in There, a tribute to senior people. a family statement posted on his verified Prine released many albums and toured Twitter account. steadily over the next two decades until a “This is hard news for us to share. But so health scare cropped up. In 1996, the singer many of you have loved and supported John was diagnosed with Stage 3 neck cancer, over the years, we wanted to let you know, which required surgeons to remove a piece of and give you the chance to send on more of his neck. that love and support now. And know that we The surgery also severed nerves in his love you, and John loves you,” the statement tongue and changed the tone of his voice, read. which led him to take more than a year before Prine never had a hit single or a blockbuster he could perform again. album. But he built a devoted following, won Over the years Prine’s songs have been several Grammys and overcame two bouts of covered by a wide range of artistes, from cancer to record and tour into his 70s. Bonnie Raitt and Bette Midler to John Fogerty, Singer Sheryl Crow wrote on Twitter: “He the Zac Brown Band and My Morning Jacket. is singing with the angels. You will be missed In 2005, Prine became the first singer/ but your songs will live on.” LEGEND: John Prine was hospitalised and intubated last month after a sudden onset of songwriter to perform at the Library of Singer Johnny Cash, in his memoir, named coronavirus symptoms. Congress – one of several literary honours Prine as one of his four key songwriting for a songwriter whose best songs blended inspirations. Rolling Stone once tagged Prine “the Mark carrier when his musical career took off in poetry with back-porch storytelling. “There’s a huge hole in the music world Twain of American songwriting.” 1970. He was singing on open-mic nights at Prine was again diagnosed with cancer tonight. John did it best,” country singer Toby Prine grew up in the suburb of Chicago a bar when then a reporter heard him play in 2013, when he had successful surgery to Keith wrote on Twitter. and was famously working as a postal and wrote a favourable review, calling him remove a spot in his left lung. – IANS 16 GULF TIMES Thursday, April 9, 2020 COMMUNITY ‘Reading fiction helps escape to a different world’ Kummam al-Maadeed, Qatari English fantasy writer, shares her thoughts on how reading books can ease anxiety during coronavirus crisis

By Mudassir Raja “Reading can help ease A reader lives a anxiety due to the current thousand lives before he dies. The man situation. It can also who never reads lives only once.” These are stimulate the mind and keep the“ words American fantasy novelist George R R Martin it active while staying home, shared in his piece A Dance with Dragons. so I highly recommend it. The habit of reading has always been regarded as a very When choosing a book, positive hobby. People try and inculcate reading habit make sure it has a topic you among their kids. It is a very useful time-pass with a lot of like and if you start reading learning. The social distancing a book and feel you do not phenomenon, triggered by the novel coronavirus pandemic like it, it is okay to stop and around the globe, can serve as the best opportunity to either find another book. Do not inculcate the reading habit or read the books you have long pressure yourself. Also, try been waiting to go through. Kummam al-Maadeed is audiobooks. They are the a young Qatari story-teller, specialising in English fantasy best to listen to while you novels. The only female Qatari English fantasy writer work around in the house holds a Master of Business Administration (2018) and a or when you are doing your Bachelor of Public Relations and Advertising (2011) from puzzle” Qatar University. Currently the head of media — Kummam al-Maadeed and publications at Qatar University, Kummam loves to create new worlds and new cultures. She dreams that can take the reader’s mind writer reiterate the about new and different off the current situation. significance of reading habit worlds and then creates new When asked how she spends and not only keeps people characters for her stories. She most of her time while being busy but also eases the stress has constantly been learning at home, the fantasy novelist caused by the coronavirus about ancient cultures and said: “I am head of media outbreak and related social civilisations. The writer has and publication at Qatar and economic complications. so far published three books University so I work remotely She said: “Reading can in English and one of them has from home. Other than that, I help ease anxiety due to the been translated into Arabic. try to focus on stress relieving current situation. It can also These are unusual times as activities like baking, puzzles, stimulate the mind and keep it people are staying home most video games and watching active while staying home, so of the time and Kummam shows. I also spend a lot of I highly recommend it. When thinks it would be good for my time with my family. We choosing a book, make sure it people to read fiction and try to play or cook together. has a topic you like and if you spend quality time and be I try to stay connected with start reading a book and feel stress free. “Fiction helps us my friends, like I have never you do not like it, it is okay to escape for a few hours to a called this many people in stop and find another book. different world and allows us my life before. But staying Do not pressure yourself. to disconnect with our current connected with my friends Also, try audiobooks. They worries. Being exposed to and extended family helps me are the best to listen to while negative news 24/7 is draining, stay grounded and reduce the you work around in the house so reading can help reduce the anxiety of these days. And of or when you are doing your anxiety of that exposure. It course reading fiction takes puzzle. I know a lot of people doesn’t even need to be just away the most of my free time are hesitant about audiobooks, fiction. It can be any book at home.” but give them a chance. They DRIVEN: Kummam is the head of media and publications at Qatar University and with information and scenes The fiction and fantasy are so fun and practical.” the only female Qatari English fantasy writer.