Afghanistan comeback in Qaeda plots tension roseon theBlackSeapeninsu- posal tostopthe chaosinUkraineas Russia shoulduseallmeansat itsdis- a weekontherun.Yanukovich said Yanukovich reappearedinRussia after forces, andoustedPresident Viktor invasion andoccupationbyMoscow’s Ukrainian leadershipdescribed asan region yesterdayinwhatthenew trol oftwoairportsintheCrimea SIMFEROPOL: SUBSCRIPTION M off as 7 os Armed mentookcon- 150 Fils AUDY AC ,21 AIATAI2,13 HNo:16091 1435 AH SATURDAY, RABI ALTHANI 29, MARCH1,2014 starving todeath Trapped refugees Gunmen seizeairports c o Uk where partofMoscow’s BlackSeafleet units intheport cityofSevastopol, servicemen ofblockadingone ofits guard servicesaid,accusing Russian yesterday overCrimea,Kiev’s border copters flewintoUkrainian airspace throw oftheMoscow-backedleader. major bastionofresistancetotheover- ethnic Russianmajorityandthelast la ofCrimea,theonlyregionwithan w, More than10Russianmilitary heli- Besieged Palestinianscryforhelp refugee camp.—AP\AFP parcels fromtheUNagencyinSyria’sbesiegedYarmukPalestinian home iftheydo.(Inset)Awomancriesasresidentswaittoreceivefood joining Syria’scivilwar-sendingaclearmessagetheyarenotwelcome new lawsandbackinganationwidecampaigntokeepitscitizensfrom in Aleppo.Afteryearsofturningablindeye,SaudiArabiaisenacting es forapicture,afterreturningfromfightingagainstSyrianarmyforces ALEPPO: ASyrianrebelfighterTawfiqHassan,23,aformerbutcher,pos- raine

W about cleanup raises questions US nukeleak 14 est fa er siteasCrimean militiamen. described thearmedgroupat the oth- agency reported,whileasupporter ing oneoftheairports,Interfax news denied itsforceswereinvolved inseiz- ousted YanukovichinKiev.The fleet there tostopthekindofprotests that Black SeaFleetandsaidtheywere confirmed toReutershewasfromthe is based.Aservicemanatthescene b oi Continued onPage 8 c l e s distribution inthecamp. agency hasonlybeenabletocarryoutlimited,intermittentfood Palestinians wasoverwhelmedbythedrama.SinceJanuary, Sayed. EventheUNReliefandWorksAgency(UNRWA)for ple, theirfacesdrainedofanylife.Sadnessiseverywhere,”said tion isreallytragic.Onthestreets,allyouseeareemaciatedpeo- from there,tousethemcooksoup,you’llgetsniped.”“Thesitua- them,” saidSayed.“Andifyougototheorchardspickherbs ing offherbs,buttheseherbsarebitter.Evenanimalswon’teat creating inhumaneconditionsforitsinhabitants.“We’vebeenliv- Palestinians. shrunk frommorethan150,000to40,000.Amongthemare18,000 and PresidentBasharAl-Assad’stroops,thecamp’spopulationhas shelling andfiercefightinginaroundYarmukbetweenrebels course, Ihavenofoodtogivethem,”Sayedsaid.Aftermonthsof me: ‘FortheloveofGod,wewanttoeat,giveusfood.’But “Sometimes, crowdsofchildrenstopmeonthestreets,begging prison, youhavefood.Here,there’snothing.Weareslowlydying.” ing inYarmuk,speakingtoAFPviatheInternet.“Butatleast,a receive foodaidthatonlyafewwereluckyenoughtocollect. thousands ofpeople,theirfacesemaciated,desperatelyflockingto death. TheUnitedNationsdistributedshockingimagesthisweekof side Damascus,wheresome40,000aresaidtobeslowlystarving can seeinthebesiegedPalestinianrefugeecampofYarmukout- BEIRUT: Europa league English pridein Spurs restore say: ‘Letusout,orletdie.’”—AFP are completelyexhausted,”said Sayed. “Theyfeeltortured.They turn peopleagainstSyria’snearly three-yearrevolt.“Peoplehere more than18months,alsounder atightarmysiegeimposedto were trappedinrebel-heldareas ofthecentralcityHomsfor appearance ofghosts.”Theirdespair echoesthatoffamilieswho He comparedthepeopleflocking tothedistributionpointas“the described the“shocking”conditionsoflifehewitnessedinYarmuk. Rights. AfteravisitonTuesday,UNRWAchiefFilippoGrandi medical shortages,saystotheSyrianObservatoryforHuman rebels havewithdrawn. able toleavethecamp,”whichisstillundersiegeeventhough with ashrapnelwoundtohisleg.Hewon’tgetbetteruntilheis there arenodoctorsormedicines,”saidSayed.“Isawayoungman pitals, therearewoundedpeoplewhocannotbetreatedbecause food inYarmukiscompoundedbymedicalshortages.“Inthehos- draw, followingadealreachedwithPalestinianfactions.Thelackof tion onlybeganafterrebelsfromoutsidethecampagreedtowith- shelling, fightingandoccasionalaerialbombardment.Thedistribu- last afewdays.”Muchofthecamphasbeenreducedtorubbleby tance,” saidSayed. days. “Yesterdayonly10percentofpeopleherereceivedassis- need.” Oneparcelfeedsafamilyofbetweenfiveandeightfor10 ing thatas“adropintheoceancomparedwithrisingtideof UNRWA hasdistributedonly7,500foodparcelsinYarmuk,describ- are etchedonthefacesofwaitingmultitudes.”SinceJanuary, has reachedprofoundlevelsofdesperation.Hungerandanxiety such scenesweretheagency’s“dailyreality.”“Humanitarianneed ed campforasfartheeyecansee,”UNRWAsaid,addingthat 46 Since lastsummer,theareahasbeenunderchokingarmysiege, “We liveinabigprison,”saidRamiAl-Sayed,Syrianactivistliv- Since October,morethan100peoplehavediedfromfoodand Ali Zoya,aPalestinianlivinginYarmuk,said“theaidwillonly “Gaunt, raggedfiguresofallagesfillthestreetsdevastat- Gaunt, raggedfiguresfillthestreetsforasfareye ‘Let usout,orletdie’ Min Max 12º 26º

LOCAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Duo in police net for jewelry theft Bedoon held for murder attempt

By Hanan Al-Saadoun over and the latter was accordingly arrested.

KUWAIT: Nugra criminal detectives recently Drug traders arrested a non-Kuwait and an Arab national Three citizens were arrested with the pos- for selling stolen golden jewelry, said security session of drugs, said security sources noting sources yesterday. Case papers indicate that a that one of them was found already wanted non-Kuwaiti was arrested while he was trying for a five-year jail sentences. to sell stolen golden jewelry at a Salmiya jew- elry shop. He led the police to his accomplice; Infiltration attempt KUWAIT: The stolen items confiscated from the duo yesterday. an Arab national. Both suspects confessed Border security forces recently arrested 19 that they had committed seven robberies and people for cutting through the border barbed stolen many valuable items such as diamonds, wires at the northern and southern border KRCS pledges more aid golden jewelry and expensive watches. They areas. also said that they sold some of the items and used the money for buying two vehicles and Naval exercise for Syrian refugees drugs. A case was filed and the suspects were With two interception speedboats referred to relevant authorities. onboard, Coastguard vessel ‘Warba’ recently BEIRUT: Kuwait Red Crescent Society is planning during which the society has distributed bread to sailed out of Sabah Al-Ahmed Coastguard a new relief operation to aid hundreds of thou- the refugees and has offered kidney dialysis for Murder attempt Base heading to King Abdul Aziz port, Saudi sands of Syrians taking up refuge in Lebanon, those in need for the treatment among them. A bedoon was arrested and detained at Arabia to take part in the Gulf Peace 4 drill announced the society delegate here. He affirmed that the Kuwaiti philanthropic Taima police station for attempted murder, that is due to be held jointly with KSA and The KRCS will launch, very soon, a new relief association would do its best and carry on with said security sources yesterday. Case papers Bahrain from March 2 to 6. The delegation, campaign to secure for the refugees food pack- the relief action to help those who fled the vio- indicate that a bedoon sustained several seri- headed by Abdul Rahamn Al-Rasheedi, was ages, clothing and housing, said Dr Musaed Al- lence in Syria. The KRCS, along with Kuwaiti chari- ous bone fractures when he was run over at seen off by MOI’s assistant undersecretary for Enezi, the society delegate to Lebanon in a state- ties and donors, has been aiding the Syrian Khuwaisat desert. The injured accused border security, Maj Gen Sheikh Mohammed ment. refugees in Lebanon and other countries neigh- another bedoon of deliberately running him Al-Yousif Al-Sabah. Al-Enezi has just concluded a visit to Lebanon boring Syria.—KUNA LOCAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Jobseekers attracted to strong brands’ companies Strong online presence needed

DUBAI: ‘What Makes a Company an and simple, but also promote a positive ties for professionals to do their best Attractive Place to Work?’, a poll recently brand image. The recently-launched while leading them on a successful conducted by Bayt.com, the region’s Bayt.com Company Profiles is a great career path is most appealing to 19.7% number one job site, has revealed that way for employers to increase their of polled professionals; companies that companies should market themselves to attractiveness among jobseekers. provide training and development jobseekers as great places to work. In Company Profiles offers employers the opportunities, and also companies that fact, 90% of the poll’s respondents are opportunity to increase brand aware- encourage new ideas and innovations attracted to companies that offer sup- ness by sharing their job vacancies, pho- appeal most to one out of 10 respon- portive and great work environments, tos and stories, and thus better position dents, respectively. For seven out of 10 and seven out of 10 of them will only themselves as an employer of choice.” respondents (65.6%), all of the afore- work for a company they’re proud of. The ideal company that respondents mentioned criteria are equally impor- Three quarters of the poll’s respon- would like to work for has a supportive tant. dents (76.4%) will always turn to the and great work environment, according “It is critical to note that while salaries internet to research a company when to 36.4% of polled professionals. are important for attracting and retain- considering a job opportunity. This Companies that are admired (28%) or ing top talent, many other criteria also emphasises the fact that an online pres- that are big or with global operations come into play and employer branding ence is essential for employers, and they (20.1%) are also favorable. Innovative plays a key role in communicating the should especially tailor their online mar- organizations are also popular with unique dimensions of a company as a keting position towards jobseekers as 12.9% of respondents. great place to work,” continues Al-Masri. great places to work in order to attract For seven out of 10 respondents Data for the Bayt.com ‘What Makes a the best talent. (70%), working for a company they’re Company an Attractive Place to Work?’ When looking up a company on the not proud of is out of the question. A poll was collected online from 20 internet, jobseekers would most like to fifth (19.3%) doesn’t consider company December 2013 - 30 January 2014, with see a description of all job vacancies pride to be as important as other things, 8,853 respondents from the UAE, KSA, within the company. This is followed by and for 10.7%, it’s not important at all. Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Bahrain, Lebanon, a description of all company activities; Nine out of 10 (92.8%) professionals in Syria, Jordan, Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, culture video and/or description; com- the region prefer to refer to their organi- and Tunisia. pany testimonials from clients and zation as ‘we’ when talking about it; and Bayt.com is the leading online recruit- employees, and company awards. Four a further 65.8% of respondents take it as ment website in the MENA region today. in 10 respondents (42.5%) would like to a personal compliment when someone With more than 13,750,000 million regis- see all of these, equally. praises their company. Almost three tered job seekers and over 8 million visits A company’s brand is important to quarters (71.6%) would recommend the each month (November 2013), we rep- 61.3% of respondents, who state that company they currently work for to resent all career levels, industries, job working for a great brand looks good on friends and family looking for employ- roles and nationalities in the region. The their CV. The majority (60.1%) feel that ment. jobsite operates in three different lan- the most harmful thing a company can Half of the poll’s respondents would guages Arabic, English, and French to do for its brand is to not follow up or rather work at a company where they cater to our diverse demographic. communicate after a job application, feel the work they do is part of a greater Bayt.com works with over 40,000 though errors on a job posting is also a purpose, with 22.6% wanting to believe employer companies, from small busi- big turn-off. Negative word-of-mouth in the company’s mission, vision and/or nesses to large multi-nationals and gov- from existing employees is also consid- values. For a smaller group of 20.1%, ernments, and helps them to success- ered to be bad for a brand. being paid a high salary is the biggest fully attract and recruit qualified profes- “The results of our latest poll show draw. sionals and executives every day. From that it’s more important than ever for a When it comes to company manage- our 12 offices in Bahrain, Egypt, Jordan, company to maintain a strong online ment, it’s most important to 60.1% of Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, presence with an appealing brand respondents that they know what is Pakistan and the UAE, Bayt.com main- ethos,” said Suhail Al-Masri, VP of Sales, expected of them at work. Getting tains an ongoing, dedicated customer KUWAIT: Hawally municipality officials had removed Bayt.com. “Bayt.com offers a state-of- recognition and praise for good work is support staff that is able to work direct- 24 truckloads of wastes after the national celebra- the-art environment for companies to most important to 23.6%, while frequent ly with our recruiting employer cus- tions over the weekend in addition to the confisca- promote their brand and job openings, discussions about performance are most tomers to ensure their goals are tion of two truckloads of fireworks. with comprehensive tools that not only valued by 16.3%. achieved most efficiently and cost- —By Hanan Al-Saadoun make finding the right candidate quick A company that provides opportuni- effectively.—Bayt.com Kuwait asserts need FAO to open bureau in Kuwait for achieving ROME: Kuwait has held talks with the Food and employment of the international agency expertise. food security Agriculture Organization (FAO) in preparation of open- PAAAFR completed, according to up-to-date criteria, ing a bureau of the organization in Kuwait and employ- constructing and equipping the FAO bureau in Kuwait ROME: Board Chairman and Director General of Kuwait’s Public ing Kuwaiti nationals. and the authority dispatched six national cadres to the Authority for Agricultural Affairs and Fish Resources, Jassem Al-Bader, The discussions, held here, involved Chairman of FAO headquarters in Rome to train on operating it and called yesterday on the importance of achieving regional food securi- Kuwait’s Public Authority for Agricultural Affairs and working as coordinators with the diverse departments ty, a key pillar of Kuwait’s policy. Fish Resources Jassem Al-Bader, accompanied by the of the organization. Al-Bader, addressing the Ministerial Meeting of Near East Region Kuwaiti Ambassador to Italy Sheikh Ali Al-Khaled Al- Al-Bader said the FAO chief has expressed admiration Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), wished Sabah, with FAO Director General José Graziano da for “speedy and qualitative accomplishment” of estab- the meeting would meet aspirations of “our countries and peoples.” Silva. The meeting was held on sidelines of a FAO minis- lishing the bureau and affirmed readiness to inaugurate Al-Bader, who thanked FAO for the organization of the confer- terial conference that convened in Rome late on it during his planned visit to Kuwait in November. ence, said Kuwait’s agriculture and food policy was in harmony with Thursday. He indicated that a five-year action plan, encompass- FAO’s objectives to ultimately achieve food security at the national Al-Bader said he discussed with the FAO Chairman ing 33 projects, is to be executed, in the preliminary level. Kuwait, he added, “is looking forward for the unification of all results of his successful visit to Kuwait, last January, and phase of the bureau tasks. efforts to achieve this objective” coupled with FAO’s expertise to sup- porting sustainable agriculture, addressing of poverty and hunger, as the agreement that had been inked, stipulating estab- The PAAAFR chief added that he agreed with da Silva well as developing human resources. lishment of the first Kuwait-FAO partnership and con- to select a number of skilled Kuwaiti citizens to work in Al-Bader said Kuwait believed in the importance of tackling chal- tact office in the country. the FAO headquarters, the regional offices in Cairo and lenges related to food security, sustainable development, difficult cli- The accord was signed by the two sides in 2013, with Abu Dhabi-the first such accord to be reached since mate, malnutrition and shortage of natural resources. —KUNA aim of regulating mutual technical cooperation and Kuwait joined the organization. —KUNA LOCAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

CAPITALS: Kuwaiti embassies in Philippines and Azerbaijan celebrate the national day yesterday. KES organizes public Kuwaiti embassies continue seminar on administrative reforms national days celebrations KUWAIT: Extending the efforts of Kuwait Economic Society on the topic of administrative reform in the pub- Praise for good relations lic sector in the State of Kuwait, Manaf Al-Hajeri, Head of Policy Committee in Kuwait Economic Society, CAPITALS: The Kuwaiti diplomatic missions around the world con- Al-Adwani congratulated His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al- announced holding a public lecture on Monday in the tinued celebration of Kuwait’s 53rd National Day and 23rd Liberation Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh society premises in Shuwaikh which will be presented by Day yesterday. In Manila, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Philippines Waleed Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His Highness the Prime Minister Prof Giacomo Luciani. Al-Kanderi hosted a reception to mark the national days, which gath- Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and the Kuwaiti people on The topic of the lecture will be on issues in the gover- ered a number of senior official and political attendants in the coun- the occasion of these national days. nance in the state administrative sector. Specific focus try. Al-Adwani, at a news conference on this occasion, said Kuwait and will be on the situation During the reception, Ambassador Al-Kanderi congratulated His Russia enjoyed good relations at the political, economic, trade and in Kuwait through Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His investment levels. He said the two countries, who celebrated the 50th drawing parallels in Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations last year, order to understand Sabah, and the Kuwaiti government and people on this occasion, have cultural and academic potentials in common. what lessons may be lauding at the same time close Kuwaiti-Filipino ties in various levels of He said the recent strategic dialogue session between Russia and derived for Kuwait bilateral cooperation. the GCC was important and constructive. In Ho Chi Minh City, Consulate-General of Kuwait in Vietnam host- Al-Adwani underlined the role of Russia in international affairs, from the discussion of ed a reception to mark the national days and was attended by a num- and also said Kuwait was playing a key role in spreading the culture of other cases such as ber of significant figures and senior officials in the country. For his peace and narrowing gaps between the conflicting parties in many Russia, Mexico, part, Kuwait’s Consul General Omar Suleiman Al-Qenai congratulated areas. He congratulated Russia for organizing the winter olympic Venezuela, Abu Dhabi, His Highness the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, His games in Sochi. Meanwhile, Kuwait’s embassy in Baghdad congratu- Saudi Arabia and Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- lated His Highness the Amir on the occasion of the national days. Algeria. The lecture will Sabah, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Jaber Al-Mubarak In a statement, the embassy also congratulated the Kuwaiti peo- highlight the necessity Al-Sabah, as well as the Kuwaiti people and all residents in Kuwait on ple, wishing lasting stability and security in Kuwait. for a resource-rich this occasion. Kuwait’s embassy in Brazil also held a reception to mark the country to have a long- Kuwait’s Ambassador in Moscow Abdulaziz Al-Adwani held a national days. The reception, held last night, was attended by govern- Manaf Al-Hajeri term vision of its own reception attended by head of the Middle East and North Africa ment officials, lawmakers, diplomats and public figures. future, and engage in Department at the Foreign Ministry, Director of International Ambassador Ayada Al-Saeedi congratulated His Highness the Amir, Relations Department at the Federal Council and Chairman of the His Highness the Crown Prince and the Kuwaiti people on these occa- strategic economic planning. A strategic economic plan Media Committee at the Duma, the lower house of parliament. sions. Al-Saeedi commended the bilateral relations with Brazil, saying based on a well-defined vision is a tool to create consen- The reception was also attended by Arab and Western diplomats, the two countries were keen on developing these ties in all domains sus and converge efforts in society. Among topics to be journalists, religious figures and businessmen. particularly in economy and trade. — KUNA presented: Separation of strategic policy mak- ing from the day-to- NBK song attracts hundreds of day exercise of power in government. Establishment of thousands on social media autonomous agencies KUWAIT: - or granting of greater National Bank of Kuwait’s (NBK) the celebration. NBK reinforced its position social and philanthropic initiatives and autonomy to existing National Song initiative entitled “Watani Al- as a lead contributor to the development of national responsibilities including the special Kuwait” attracted hundreds of thousands of the Kuwaiti society through its commitment musical operetta “Habibityi ya Kuwait” that agencies - which followers on social media. to corporate social responsibility. This com- was launched on the occasion of Kuwait’s would be separate “Watani Al-Kuwait” was aired via all audio, mitment became evident in the numerous independence Golden Jubilee. from the bureaucracy, visual and social media channels and cine- yet maintain a public mas in Kuwait. NBK has launched this song in character. celebration of Kuwait’s 53rd anniversary of Prof Giacomo independence and the 23rd anniversary of Prof Giacomo Luciani Luciani is a renowned liberation. political economic scholar with extensive work on devel- This unprecedented musical work featur- oping countries, with an emphasis on the Middle East. ing numerous cultural, community and social Since 2012, Adjunct Professor at the Graduate Institute of activities and charities carried by Kuwaiti International and Development Studies, Geneva; Director youth volunteers to be presented as a com- memorative gift for Kuwait and to raise of the Executive Master in International Oil and Gas awareness towards social responsibility and Leadership. Since 2010, Scientific Director of the Master to encourage youth to volunteer. in International Energy, Paris School of International “Watani Al-Kuwait” is a piece of art that is Affairs, Sciences Po, Paris; he is also a Princeton rich in connotations and invokes remarkably University Global Scholar. vivid community-related associations. It is a The lecture will be in English with the availability of part of NBK’s social program on the occasion instant translation to Arabic. of national Day that includes a host of activi- ties and functions that highlight the spirit of ‘Watani Al-Kuwait’ initiative

SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Israel lobby seeks Fleeing Christians return Tea Party Patriots to regain footing 8 to their Turkish homeland 10 ‘alive and kicking’ 14

GHAZNI: Afghan men watch a dog fight in Ghazni province yesterday. Dog fighting is held in vacant lots and though betting is done, matches are stopped as soon as one dog shows absolute domination. Dog fighting was banned during the Taleban regime. — AFP Qaeda plots comeback in Afghanistan Militia leader warming up for US pullout

WASHINGTON: Al-Qaeda’s Afghanistan leader is lay- The administration would like to leave up to officials have testified that the inexperienced Afghan Foundation. “We do want to keep them bottled up ing the groundwork to relaunch his war-shattered 10,000 troops in Afghanistan after combat opera- forces aren’t ready to take over the task unaided. there,” but he said that’s something Afghan forces organization once the United States and internation- tions end on Dec 31, to continue training Afghan National Security Council spokeswoman Caitlin can do on their own. “The Afghan forces are not al forces withdraw from the country, as they have forces and conduct counterterrorism missions. But Hayden said this week that “as the possibility of a full capable of going up there and hunting them, but warned they will do without a security agreement without the agreement that would authorize interna- withdrawal has grown in Afghanistan,” the adminis- they are capable of containing them,” the former US from the Afghan government, US officials say. Farouq tional forces to stay in Afghanistan, President Barack tration was “undertaking a methodical review of any military officer said. Al-Qahtani Al-Qatari has been cementing local ties Obama has threatened to pull all troops out, and US capabilities that may be affected and developing Other experts see Al-Qahtani and his ilk as the and bringing in small numbers of experienced mili- NATO forces would follow suit. After talking to strategies to mitigate impacts.” “The United States main reason to push for at least a skeleton security tants to train a new generation of fighters, and US Afghan President Hamid Karzai this week, Obama will take the steps necessary to combat terrorism and force in Afghanistan. “There’s an influx of Jihadist military and intelligence officials say they have ordered the Pentagon to begin planning for the so- protect our interests,” she added. Some administra- groups - not massive - now active in Afghanistan,” stepped up drone and jet missile strikes against him called zero option. US military and intelligence offi- tion officials have said Al-Qaeda in Afghanistan is less said Seth Jones of the Washington-based RAND and his followers in the mountainous eastern cials say unless they can continue to fly drones and of a threat than when the war began, estimated to be Corp, who once worked for US Special Operations provinces of Kunar and Nuristan. jets from at least one air base in Afghanistan - either as many as several hundred forced to shelter in the Command in Afghanistan. He listed the most danger- The objective is to keep him from restarting the Bagram in the north or Jalalabad in the east - Al- remotest part of the country. ous as Al-Qaeda, the Pakistan Taleban, Lashkar-e large training camps that once drew hundreds of fol- Qahtani and his followers could eventually plan new They say Al-Qahtani is so far off the beaten path, Taiba, blamed for the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attacks, lowers before the US-led war began. The officials say attacks against US targets, although experts do not he is nearly irrelevant to the larger Al-Qaeda move- and Harkat-ul-Jihad-Al-Islami, which has strong links the counterterrorism campaign - a key reason the consider him one of the most dangerous Al-Qaeda ment. Two US intelligence officials say his group has to Al-Qaeda. Obama administration agreed to keep any troops in leaders. The officials spoke on condition of anonymi- been so cut off that it has been forced to rely on the “Not having US forces in Afghanistan would Afghanistan after 2014 - could be jeopardized by the ty because they were not authorized to discuss pub- Taleban for funding and weapons at times, where it embolden these groups and be counterproductive possibility of a total pullout. House Intelligence licly the secret counterterrorism campaign or intelli- used to be the other way around. Those officials are for US national security,” he said. Those tracking Al- Committee Chairman Mike Rogers, R-Mich., said the gence. Administration officials have hoped that the far more concerned about Al-Qaeda’s new offshoots Qahtani say he has survived by following some of the number of Al-Qaeda members in Afghanistan has US could eventually wind down counterterrorism fighting in the Syrian civil war. “It’s really hard to get same rules that helped Osama bin Laden avoid cap- risen but not much higher than as many as the sever- operations like drone strikes in the region after to New York City from northern Kunar or southern ture for so many years: He stays off cellphones and al hundred or so the US has identified in the past. “I reducing the Al-Qaeda network, leaving local forces Nuristan” where Al-Qahtani is based, said Douglas radios to hide from spy satellites and airborne radars, think most are waiting for the US to fully pull out by in Afghanistan and Pakistan to control the remnants. Ollivant, a former senior US military adviser in eastern instead using couriers or face-to-face meetings, and 2014,” he said. But Al-Qaeda is not weakened enough yet, and US Afghanistan, now with the New American he stays on the move. —AP INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Israel lobby seeks to regain footing AIPAC remains a potent political force

WASHINGTON: For years, Israeli leaders visiting Washington vision by popular talk-show comedian Jon Stewart, who have been boosted by America’s main pro-Israel lobby, its accused US lawmakers of behaving like senators “from the influence on US Middle East policy long accepted as a matter great state of Israel.” The White House cast the sanctions of conventional wisdom. But when Prime Minister Benjamin effort as a “march toward war” and Obama threatened a veto, Netanyahu addresses an annual convention of Israel’s US spurring some fellow Democrats behind the bill to peel off. supporters next week, he will find the group trying to show it AIPAC still believes if it bides its time, it will have a chance to has not lost its touch after the White House blocked its push revive the sanctions drive, a senior AIPAC official said. It was for Congress to impose new Iran sanctions. While no one the second blow to AIPAC in recent months. In September, doubts the American Israel Public Affairs Committee remains when Obama sought congressional authorization to strike a potent political force, AIPAC - and the Israeli government it Syria over chemical weapons use, the group lobbied lawmak- seeks to bolster in Washington - can ill afford any perceptions ers at the White House’s behest. But then Obama back- GAZA: Actor Mahmoud Karira, who plays Gilad Schalit, has makeup of weakness in advancing its agenda at such a critical junc- tracked from military action. applied by an assistant during the shooting of a 90-minute film entitled ture in US-Israeli relations. The largest pro-Israel lobbying While AIPAC’s legislative stumbles have been rare, it has “Fleeting Illusion” in Gaza City. — AFP group will gather at a time when its conservative leadership - tripped up before. It failed to block President Ronald Reagan’s not unlike the right-wing Israeli premier - are at odds with sale of planes with advanced radar to Saudi Arabia in 1981, Hamas making feature film President Barack Obama over his diplomatic strategy for and, a decade later, President George HW Bush delayed $10 resolving the West’s nuclear standoff with Iran, Israel’s arch- billion in loan guarantees to Israel in a dispute over settle- on Israeli soldier’s captivity foe. AIPAC also faces questions about how it can move past ment-building in occupied territories. AIPAC is predicting a its biggest legislative setback in years. The stakes are especial- record turnout of 14,000 members and attendance by “more GAZA: A young Israeli soldier captured ture and top-secret captivity “about ly high on the Iran issue, the top security priority for both than two-thirds of Congress” at its three-day annual bash. by Gaza militants and held for five years which neither Shalit nor the resistance Netanyahu’s government and America’s pro-Israel communi- Even at a time of friction with AIPAC, the White House is dis- before being traded for hundreds of have spoken before,” director and ty. Scoffing at the notion that the group is on the ropes, an patching Secretary of State John Kerry, who is trying to craft a Palestinian prisoners is the subject of an screenwriter Majed Jundiyeh told AFP. AIPAC source insisted its critics have “lost all perspective” and framework deal to keep Israeli-Palestinian peace talks going, ambitious low-budget film being made Jundiyeh, who says he is not a mem- that differences with the administration are being managed. and Treasury Secretary Jack Lew to address the group. by his captors. The fate of Gilad Shalit, a ber of Hamas, made the 2009 biopic AIPAC, which amassed about 100,000 members in its 60-year “We have an open line of communication with the admin- corporal captured in a deadly cross-bor- “Emad Akel” about a commander of history, is widely credited with helping to ensure Israel istration,” the AIPAC source said. The Obama administration der raid when he was just 19, transfixed Hamas’s military wing who headed remains a top recipient of US foreign aid, this year exceeding has made clear it hopes Netanyahu as well as his AIPAC allies Israel for years as his captivity in an Israel’s hit list until he was killed in 1993. $3 billion, mostly military-related. will tone down their opposition while negotiations proceed unknown location challenged what most Filming on his latest work began in with Tehran. But the administration is resigned to taking Israelis see as the state’s sacred duty to December, and the first of the film’s two Mocked on cable TV some flak from Netanyahu. “We don’t dictate his talking bring its soldiers home. parts was to have been ready for the After AIPAC lobbyists helped enlist 59 US senators from points,” said a senior US official, who also insisted that differ- But for the Islamist Hamas movement eighth anniversary of Shalit’s June 2006 both major parties to co-sponsor legislation that would ences with Netanyahu are about tactics, not the shared goal ruling Gaza, his capture and eventual capture by Hamas and two other militant impose new sanctions on Iran if negotiations failed, the bill - of preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons. Wendy exchange for more than 1,000 prisoners groups, whose fighters tunneled into which had Netanyahu’s blessing - stalled earlier this month. Sherman, a senior State Department official who heads the was a triumph for the “resistance,” an Israel and attacked a border post. Shalit “They came up against realities on Capitol Hill,” a former US negotiating team in talks between Iran and world powers, epic worthy of a blockbuster feature- was eventually released in October 2011 administration official said, suggesting that going toe-to-toe left little doubt that the administration is keeping AIPAC on its even if produced on a shoestring budg- in exchange for 1,027 Palestinians. on Iran with a Democratic president in a Democratic-led radar screen. “I’ve spoken quite directly to AIPAC. I’ve met et. A shortage of funds has drastically Gilad’s father Noam Shalit, who was long Senate was always a losing proposition. “The question now is with AIPAC,” Sherman told a roundtable of Israeli journalists slowed the production, and even its the public face of the campaign for his whether this will affect AIPAC’s ability to get things done that in Jerusalem last weekend when asked about the group’s director said it may not live up to the release, declined to speak about the film, relate specifically to Israel.” role. “We need to create the space for this diplomacy. And I high-quality epic envisioned. Entitled saying he did not want to “engage in a AIPAC typically works behind the scenes and picks its bat- would urge AIPAC to create this space.” Despite such appeals, “Fleeting Illusion,” the 90-minute film dialogue with Hamas.” “The story is tles well. Most measures it favors pass Congress with little AIPAC appears intent on keeping the heat on the administra- promises revelations about Shalit’s cap- behind us,” he said. —AFP opposition. But this time it found itself mocked on cable tele- tion over Iran. —Reuters Moscow, West face off as Ukraine boils

Continued from Page 1 cannot be a bystander watching the fate of as close a partner as airport action. “No Black Sea Fleet units have moved toward (the air- Ukraine,” Yanukovich told a news conference. “Russia must use all port), let alone taking any part in blockading it,” Interfax quoted a Moscow has promised to defend the interests of its citizens in means at its disposal to end the chaos and terror gripping Ukraine.” spokesman for the fleet as saying. Near the military airport, half a Ukraine. While it has said it will not intervene by force, its rhetoric He denied he had run away, saying he had been forced to leave dozen men in camouflage uniforms with automatic rifles were block- since the removal of Yanukovich a week ago has echoed the run-up Kiev due to threats and and denounced “lawlessness, terror, anarchy ing the road using a truck with no license plates. Reporters were kept to its invasion of Georgia in 2008. Any armed confrontation in Crimea and chaos” in the country. Switzerland, Austria and Liechtenstein from approaching them by volunteer militia, who formed a second would have major global repercussions, with tensions already height- moved yesterday to freeze assets and bank accounts of up to 20 road block about 150 meters away. ened between Russia and the West over the change of power in Ukrainians including Yanukovich and his son. Yanukovich said talk of “Of course they are Russian,” said Maxim Lovinetsky, 23, one of the Ukraine and supporting opposite sides in Syria’s civil war. They have, foreign bank accounts was “empty chatter”. Ukraine’s new rulers have volunteers who manned the post. “They came last night.” Firebrand however, pledged to cooperate to prop up Ukraine’s faltering econo- said loans worth $37 billion went missing from state accounts during Russian nationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky appeared in Sevastopol my. Yanukovich’s three years in power - a jaw-dropping sum even for a where a crowd outside the city administration gave him a hero’s wel- Ukraine’s top security official, Andriy Paruby, said the armed men population now used to tales of a lavish lifestyle and opulent resi- come, shouting “Russia, thank you”. “If the people have a right to rise were taking their orders from the top in Russia. “These are separate dence outside Kiev. up in a revolt and overthrow the authorities, why doesn’t Sevastopol groups ... commanded by the Kremlin,” Paruby, secretary of the The new Ukrainian leadership has said the country needs almost have a right to do that?” he told them. Although nominally part of the National Security and Defence Council, told a televised briefing in as much as that - $35 billion - over the next two years to stave off Russian opposition, he is widely seen as a servant of Kremlin policy, Kiev. One of the options being considered was declaring a state of bankruptcy. It said yesterday it hoped to get financial aid soon and used to float radical opinions to test public reaction. emergency in Crimea, he added. The foreign ministers of France, was prepared to fulfil the reform criteria of the International Monetary Germany and Poland, who negotiated a peace deal to end violence in Fund to get it. IMF chief Christine Lagarde said she did not see any- Avoiding provocations Kiev earlier this month, urged all parties to refrain from any action thing on the economic front worthy of panic and urged the leader- The United States has told Russia to show in the next few days that endangering Ukraine’s territorial integrity. ship to refrain from throwing numbers about she said were meaning- it is sincere about a promise not to intervene in Ukraine, saying using less until properly assessed. force would be a grave mistake. The Kremlin said Putin had ordered Asset freeze his government to continue talks with Ukraine on economic and Russia announced war games on Wednesday near the Ukrainian Armed invasion trade relations and to consult foreign partners including the border, putting 150,000 troops on high alert, although US Secretary of Interior Minister Arsen Avakov accused Russian naval forces of tak- International Monetary Fund on financial aid. Yanukovich provoked State John Kerry said his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, had told ing over a military airport near the port of Sevastopol, where the Black protests in Ukraine in November by backing out of plans to sign land- him the exercises were pre-planned. Yanukovich - who is wanted by Sea fleet has a base, and other Russian forces of seizing Simferopol’s mark deals with the European Union and instead saying Kiev would the new government for mass murder after the deaths of protesters in civilian international airport. “I consider what has happened to be an seek closer economic and trade ties with its former Soviet master Kiev last week - resurfaced in the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don yes- armed invasion and occupation in violation of all international agree- Russia. In December, Putin promised Yanukovich a $15 billion bailout, terday. He said he had not seen Russian President Vladimir Putin but ments and norms,” Avakov said on his Facebook page, describing it as but Russia has put the deal on hold after releasing an initial instal- had spoken to him on the telephone and was surprised the Russian a “provocation” and calling for talks. ment, saying it wants more clarity about the new government and its leader was not more vocal over Ukraine. “Russia cannot be indifferent, This met with a Russian naval denial of involvement in the military policies.—Reuters INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

News US slams crackdown on in brief pro-democracy protests 15 killed in Thai school bus crash BANGKOK: At least 15 people, including 13 children, were killed when a bus carrying students on a trip to the seaside GCC slammed over dangerous, exploitive working conditions collided with a lorry in eastern Thailand yesterday, police said. The smash is the latest in a series of deadly accidents WASHINGTON: The United States on Thursday denounced what it report found. “A widening gap persists between the rights conferred involving buses in Thailand, where roads are among the said was the growing use of security forces by repressive regimes to by law and the daily realities for many around the globe.” most dangerous in the world. Forty-seven others were crackdown on a worldwide groundswell of pro-democracy protests. The report also highlighted how new and fragile democracies, injured in the pre-dawn accident in Prachinburi province “The fundamental struggle for dignity, for decency in the treatment of emerging out of the Arab Spring, are cracking down on civil society. In involving a double-decker bus and an 18-wheel truck, the human beings... is a driving force in all of human history,” Secretary of Bahrain where campaigners have urged the monarchy to bring in authorities said. The students, aged around 10 to 14 years State John Kerry said as he released his department’s annual human constitutional reforms the report denounced the “arrest and deten- old, were heading to the resort city of Pattaya from the rights report. tion of protesters on vague charges, in some cases leading to their tor- northeastern province of Nakhon Ratchasima. Twenty-three But 2013 was “one of the most momentous years in the struggle ture in detention.” But while rights groups welcomed the US assess- of those hurt are in hospital with injuries including broken for greater rights and freedoms in modern history,” the top US diplo- ment, they demanded more than words. arms and legs, the Public Health Ministry said. A row of bod- mat told reporters. Kerry lamented what he said were the hundreds “The US State Department showed once again today it is not lack- ies covered by sheets was seen laid out by the side of the “murdered in the dead of night” in Syria in a chemical weapons attack. ing information about the repression happening in Bahrain, just short wreckage of the bus, whose top deck was crushed on one He also denounced the rolling back of gay rights in almost 80 coun- of the will to do much about it,” said Brian Dooley, from Human Rights side. Police said the bus driver had fled the scene of the tries around the world, which he dubbed “an affront to every reason- First. “The US policy of muted public criticism over the last three years crash-a relatively common occurrence in Thailand, where able conscience.” The US, he said, promotes global human rights to clearly hasn’t worked.” In Tehran, where a new more open leadership safety standards are generally poor. The cause of the acci- build a world “where marching peacefully in the street does not get came to power in August, US officials said “our conclusion is that dent has not yet been established but the authorities suspect you beaten up in a blind alley, or even killed in plain sight.” we’ve seen little meaningful improvement in human rights in Iran human error or a mechanical problem. “The bus’s brakes may From Sudan in the Horn of Africa, to the streets of Ukraine, the under the new government.” The report also threw a spotlight on a have failed or the driver might have fallen asleep,” Police bombed-out neighborhoods of Syria and remote areas of Myanmar, lack of labor rights in countries such as Bangladesh, where more than Lieutenant Colonel Anukarn Thamvijarn said by telephone. A security forces must be held to account for human rights abuses if 1,000 garment workers were killed in a factory building collapse in recent report by the World Health Organization said Thailand democratic transitions are to succeed, the report insisted. “This is April. saw some 38.1 road deaths per 100,000 people in 2010 - about accountability,” Kerry insisted. “It’s about ending impunity.” In “Dangerous and exploitive” working conditions in other nations behind only the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean and 2013, “transitioning democracies dealt with predictable setbacks in such as the gold mines in Nigeria and migrant workers in the Gulf also the South Pacific island of Niue. their quest for political change, and new democracies struggled to came in for criticism. The use of military might to suppress dissent was deliver effective governance and uphold rule of law,” the report said. particularly egregious in Syria, where President Bashar Al-Assad’s Maoist rebels kill regime was accused of unleashing a sarin gas attack in August that six police in India Authoritarian rule allegedly killed some 1,429 civilians, including 426 children. Egypt was RAIPUR: Maoist rebels opened fire and triggered landmines The State Department’s annual country-by-country index was also heavily criticized for “the removal of an elected civilian govern- in India’s restive Chhattisgarh state yesterday, killing six released as the world marks the 65th anniversary of the Universal ment and excessive use of force by security forces, including unlawful policemen in the latest in a string of deadly attacks on secu- Declaration of Human Rights. But six decades later “more than one killings and torture,” among the Arab nation’s most significant human rity forces. The insurgents attacked the policemen as they third of the world’s population still lives under authoritarian rule,” the rights abuses.—AFP were on a combing operation near Shyamgiri jungle in Dantewada district, about 263 kilometers from state capital Raipur. “A team of 12 policemen was trying to secure an area when the Maoists detonated landmines and started fir- ing indiscriminately at them,” police director general Amarnath Upadhyay said. “Six policemen died on the spot. We have rushed reinforcements and are awaiting further details,” he added. The Dantewada district witnessed one of the worst-ever incidents involving security forces in April 2010 when guerrillas killed at least 60 policemen in an ambush. The Maoists have become a potent insurgent force, demanding land and jobs for the poor and fighting for a communist society by toppling what they call India’s “semi-colonial, semi-feudal” form of rule. The insurgency is believed to have cost tens of thousands of lives, with much action focused around the insurgent-dominated, so-called “Red Corridor” stretching through central and eastern India. Critics believe military action is not enough to stem the unrest, saying the real solution is better governance and development.

China busts baby trafficking ring BANGUI: A convoy of French troops, around fifty armored tanks and trucks, arrives in Bangui from Chad to reinforce the French BEIJING: China this month arrested more than 1,000 people troops of operation Sangaris. — AFP suspected of involvement in baby-trafficking, in a police operation which also rescued 382 infants, local media reported yesterday. A total of 1,094 suspects involved in four baby trafficking rings were detained in a nationwide Hollande seeks C Africa operation which began on February 19, the Beijing News daily said, citing a police statement. China has a flourishing underground child trafficking industry, for which tens of unity as France digs in thousands of children are believed to be stolen each year, with demand fuelled by a one-child limit combined with a BANGUI: French President Francois Hollande urged unity in the Muslim rebel alliance that seized power for 10 months last year, France traditional preference for sons. Police were alerted after Central African Republic yesterday, nearly three months into a tough has been forced to change its objectives. “Francois Hollande thought investigating a series of adoption websites which were military mission to stop religious bloodshed. His high-security visit to that the mission of the Sangaris troops would be over in a few months. found to be fronts for child traffickers, the Beijing News Bangui caps a week that saw the French parliament extend Operation A mistake,” the Bangui daily Le Quotidien declared yesterday. report said. China’s state-run Xinhua news agency added Sangaris and another 400 extra troops arrive in the deeply unstable that the use of such websites was an emerging trend former French colony, taking their number to 2,000. Hollande went ‘We’re already dead’ amongst traffickers. It was unclear whether the rescued straight to the airport base of Operation Sangaris for a briefing with his Hollande was set to meet interim President Catherine Samba infants would be reunited with their parents. Last month Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and the commander of the Panza, who has urged France and the 6,000 troops deployed by the China gave a suspended death sentence-generally commut- French mission, General Francisco Soriano, journalists at the scene said. African Union to make full use of their UN mandate to “wipe out these ed to life in prison-to a doctor who abducted and sold new- One aim of the intervention is “to avoid at any price the partition of the unchecked elements that poison our lives”. France sought to help born babies in a case that drew widespread outrage. Zhang country”, Hollande said while he reviewed French troops, adding that “reestablish the authority of the state, renew dialogue” and prevent Shuxia, an obstetrician, was found guilty of stealing seven “thousands of lives have been saved thanks to you”. “The stakes of this partition, Hollande said. Paris has acknowledged that its troops face children, the court said, adding that she tricked parents into visit are to assess what has been accomplished in three months and to considerable difficulties in halting the conflict, but Soriano stressed giving up their babies by telling them the newborns were decide on the next missions,” the French leader said. Faced with relent- Thursday that the Central African people needed to start doing their sick or had died. less bloodshed in which armed extremist Christian militias have share. “Central Africans need to participate in the reconstruction of slaughtered Muslim civilians in revenge for atrocities by a mainly their own country. We already do a lot,” the general said.—AFP INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Generations on, Christians fleeing Syria return to Turkish homeland A reversal of their ancestors’ flight around a century ago

MIDYAT: When Louis Bandak fled the violence applied for visas to European countries, but few souk was destroyed and medieval citadel dam- Holy Mountain in Syria, he sought refuge in the country his are optimistic their paperwork will come aged. The decision to leave came last spring Amid the region’s upheaval, Turkey has grandfather was forced to abandon exactly 90 through as governments tighten restrictions on when foreign fighters stopped a bus he had tak- become a safe haven. Tur Abdin, or Mountain of years ago this week. Bandak, his wife and two asylum seekers from Syria. en to Damascus and lingered over his ID card the Servants of God, is a high plateau situated daughters are part of a small but growing trick- Instead, many are scratching together the and his non-Muslim name, then accused him of between the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, Syriacs’ le of Christians arriving in Turkey after three 10,000 euro ($13,700) fee traffickers demand to collaborating with the state. “I said I was a poor second-holiest site after Jerusalem. The centre of years of civil war in Syria killed more than smuggle them across the sea to Greece before electrician, they let me go. I could not stop shak- one of the world’s oldest Christian traditions, 140,000 people. “Although I had never been they unite with relatives further north in ing. I thought of my daughters without a father.” some 80 monasteries, most in ruins, dot the land- here before, it does not feel strange. This too is Germany or Sweden. This treacherous route is He locked the family’s possessions into one scape of dry scrubland and outcrops. The arrival my homeland,” says Bandak, sitting in warm not an option for the elderly and the 13 children room of their apartment and hired a car to take of Bandak and other Syriacs has helped swell winter sun outside the 5th Century Mor staying at the Istanbul house. Milad, a 24-year- them to the border with a few suitcases of church pews at Midyat’s 1,600-year-old churches. Abrohom Monastery in Midyat, 30 miles north old former conscript who deserted Assad’s army clothes and a computer hard drive of family Poverty and violence between Turks and of the border. after he was seriously wounded last year, is photos. “We have had enough of war. Next time Kurds in the 1980s and 1990s reduced an already While most Christian refugees are in Lebanon gloomy about his chances of raising the funds I go to Syria, I’ll go as a tourist,” Ninorta says. dwindling Syriac population in Tur Abdin to or Jordan, countries with which they share lin- for passage to Europe. Hit by shrapnel last June, Hardline Islamists are said to be behind 2,500 from about 50,000 in 1950, said Heidi guistic or cultural ties, several thousand have he passes his time asleep or strengthening a attacks on Christians, spurred by politics or Armbruster, an anthropologist at the University come to Turkey. For many it is a reversal of their withered right arm pockmarked with scars, money. In December, fighters abducted 12 of Southampton. Istanbul is home to 15,000 ancestors’ flight around a century ago, when embedded shards of metal and wounds still Greek Orthodox nuns from the Christian strong- Syriacs. In recent years, Turkey has sought to World War One and the subsequent building of oozing pus. “I was caught between two fires in a hold of Maaloula. Earlier in 2013, a Syriac improve the plight of Syriacs, pledging to return the post-Ottoman Turkish state made Turkey a hostile land for millions of Christians. The sectar- ian strife that has rent apart Syria’s delicate mul- ti-ethnic fabric has spawned a severe humanitar- ian crisis and driven 2.5 million refugees into neighboring countries. Turkey has taken in 700,000 mostly Sunni Muslim refugees. The United Nations does not register Syrian refugees by religion so cannot give an exact figure for Christians who have left, but estimates vary between 300,000 and 500,000, says Mark Ohanian, director of pro- grams of the International Orthodox Christian Charities, which works inside Syria. Their flight has been driven in part because Christians, seen as largely supportive of President Bashar Al- Assad, have been targeted by rebels in some parts of Syria and feel threatened by increasing- ly hardline Islamist fighters. Some have sought safety in mountain vil- lages in Iraq’s stable Kurdish-run north, and about 20,000 ethnic Armenians have resettled in Armenia, Ohanian said. Syria’s total Christian minority, which made up about 10 percent of the pre-war population of 22 million, has gener- ally kept to the sidelines of the war, which pits mainly Sunni Muslim rebels against Assad, who is from the minority Alawite sect, and his foreign Shiite allies. Bandak is Syriac, a people who number about 180,000 in Syria and survive in pockets of Iraq, Iran and Turkey. Many still speak a dialect of Aramaic, the language of Christ. DAMASCUS: Photo shows damage and debris on one of the main streets of the besieged Palestinian camp of Yarmouk, in Damascus. — AP

Smuggled to Europe war that is not mine,” says Milad, asking that his Orthodox bishop and a Greek Orthodox bishop confiscated monastic land and allowing the Christians are exiting through Turkey surname not be used. “I never wanted to leave disappeared outside of Aleppo. “Christians are community to open its first school in 86 years. because its border with Europe offers a better my country. Now I can never go back.” targeted because they are perceived as being Community leaders say Prime Minister Tayyip chance of eventual asylum there, says Sait Susin, allied with Assad, but also because they are nat- Erdogan has even extended an invitation to the chairman of the Syriac Orthodox Foundation in Empty camp ural targets for religious fundamentalists,” says Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate of Damascus, now Istanbul, which relies on donations from the In Midyat, an ancient town of conjoined historian William Dalrymple, who has written in exile in Beirut, to return to Turkey, its seat local community to house and feed 500 of its sandstone houses, the Bandaks are among 500 extensively about imperiled Christian communi- since 37 AD before Turkey expelled it to Syria in Syrian brethren at a time. He estimates more or so Syrians staying in private homes belonging ties in the Middle East, home still to 14 million 1925. than 5,000 Syriacs have passed through Turkey to Turkish Syriacs who left the area years ago. All Christians who trace their roots back two millen- Bandak speaks a smattering of Turkish taught but the precise number is unknown, because but two Syrian families have snubbed a camp nia. Until the war, Syria was a relatively free by his grandfather, Barsom, who abandoned his most arrive informally and spend anywhere opened last year for Christian Syrians on the place for Christian expression, a vestige of a farm in the Turkish town of Siverek after his from 10 days to more than a year before moving grounds of Mor Abrohom. Gleaming white wider Middle East that was more tolerant 50 father was murdered by Muslim neighbors. on. Since late 2012, their numbers have tents, a hospital and a market stand behind years ago, Dalrymple says. “Middle Eastern Bandak still recalls the exact date Barsom fled: increased steadily as Christians feel a greater barbed wire in a hollow where monks once Christians are going through the period of their Feb. 24, 1924. On the wall of the home where threat from an uprising that has grown more raised barley, ready for up to 4,000 people biggest decline, and it is irreversible,” he said, Bandak stays is a simple oil painting, a triptych of radical in outlook, he said. should violence escalate in north Syria. The pointing to the nearly 70 percent drop in Iraq’s a charred landscape with ghost-like figures. It In a working-class district in Istanbul, about Bandaks have languished in Midyat for nine Christian population since the US invasion of depicts “Seyfo,” the Year of the Sword in 1915, 55 people dwell in a former three-storey home months, their girls unable to attend school. 2003. Erol Dora, a Syriac and Turkey’s first when historians say 250,000 Syriacs were slaugh- run by Susin’s foundation. Another 150 people Living off savings and help from the local Christian lawmaker in a half-century, says those tered by Ottoman Turks during World War One. are on a waiting list for beds. Entire families church, the family awaits visas for Germany who leave the region are doing so as a last Far greater numbers of Armenian Christians were cram into small bedrooms, and about 20 or so where Bandak’s wife, Ninorta, has relatives. resort, after they have parted with property. “By also killed during that war in what both groups young men sleep on bunk beds in spartan dor- Bandak, 48, a bespectacled goldsmith from the time they leave, they have usually lost every- call genocide. “Sometimes it seems as if it’s one mitories. They gather once a day at a nearby Aleppo, said he had been determined to stay in thing, even hope. Their trust that they can be long, unending war,” Bandak says. “We are like Catholic church to share a meal. Some have Syria’s largest city even after its Ottoman-era safe again is gone.” skeletons passing through this land.”— Reuters Available at The Sultan Centre & Carrefour INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

2,000-km march for ‘missing’ nears end in Pakistan

RAWALPINDI: After 2,000 grueling kilome- are being kidnapped every day in tal Quetta last October, walking first 700 attack Pakistani forces. Rights groups accuse ters on the road, a band of families led by a Baluchistan, districts are being bombarded kilometers to Karachi, on the shores of the the military and intelligence agencies of kid- 72-year-old are due to reach the end of their and almost every day we are receiving muti- Arabian Sea, before turning their steps napping and killing suspected Baluch rebels protest march over missing relatives in the lated bodies,” Qadir said on the road close northwards to Islamabad, nestling in the before leaving their bodies by the roadside. Pakistani capital yesterday. They are the rel- to Rawalpindi, Islamabad’s twin city. “We foothills of the Himalayas. Baluchistan, the According to Human Rights Watch, more atives of people who have disappeared in have no more hope in the Pakistani govern- size of Italy and rich in copper, gold and nat- than 300 people have suffered this fate- Pakistan’s troubled southwestern province ment, which is why we want to talk to inter- ural gas, is Pakistan’s largest but least popu- known as “kill and dump”-in Baluchistan Baluchistan, allegedly at the hands of the national organizations, so they can apply lous province. It is also the least developed, since January 2011. The security services country’s security services. The marchers, pressure.” which has exacerbated a long-running eth- deny the allegations and say they are bat- led by a retired banker known as Mama Qadir’s son Jalil Reki, a member of the nic Baluch separatist movement that wants tling a fierce rebellion in the province. The (uncle) Qadir, hope to present a petition to Baloch Republican Party which is suspected more autonomy and a greater share of its Supreme Court has also been investigating UN officials in Islamabad and meet foreign of links to the armed insurgency, was found mineral wealth. cases of missing people in Baluchistan, issu- diplomats to raise awareness of their cause. shot dead in 2011 after going missing. The The latest armed insurgency rose up in ing warnings to the government to recover “We want to tell (the world) that people marchers set out from the Baluchistan capi- 2004 and separatist groups still regularly these people. — AFP

Singapore court overturns sex-for favors conviction ‘It takes two hands to clap’

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s High Court has overturned the convic- tion of a law professor jailed for obtaining sexual favors and gifts from a female student in exchange for better grades, his lawyer said yesterday. Former National University of Singapore (NUS) law professor Tey Tsun Hang, 42, served a five-month sentence last year after he was found guilty by a district court of six charges of corruption over his relationship with his then-student Darinne Ko in 2010. The district court ruled that he had “exploit- ed” the female student by obtaining sexual favors from her and also receiving gifts that included tailored shirts and a limited-edi- tion pen. But Tey’s lawyer Peter Low said Friday that High Court Justice Woo Bih Li “allowed an appeal and overturned the conviction”, five months after he completed his prison sentence. “The crux of it is that the court found that it takes two hands to clap even though he exploited her and that she was in love with him,” Low said. “I am glad that Professor Tey has been vindicated by a court of law and acquitted of all six corruption charges,” he said. The NUS, which announced last year that it had terminated Tey’s ST LOUIS: Wissam Akiki, who is married, serves his daughter, Perla, communion after being ordained to the priesthood employment after his conviction, said Friday he may “petition for during a ceremony at St Raymond’s Maronite Cathedral on Thursday, Feb 27, 2014. — AP reinstatement” at the university. However, “he would remain liable for any acts contrary to the NUS Staff Code of Conduct,” the school said in a statement sent to AFP. “In the event that he does seek to return to NUS, the uni- Married man becomes a versity would first appoint its own Committee of Inquiry to deter- mine whether Mr Tey is guilty of any misconduct and, if so, what sanctions are warranted,” it said. In handing down the sentence Maronite Catholic priest last year, Chief District Judge Tan Siong Thye said Tey “abused his position and power” while in the relationship with Ko and chastised him for his “ulterior motives and corrupt intention”. ST LOUIS: When Wissam Akiki was the pope but have many of their own ritu- Roman rite will be overturned,” said Randy The court had heard during the trial that Ko got pregnant ordained as a Maronite Catholic priest als and liturgy. Rosenberg, a theological studies professor during their affair and paid for her own abortion. It is the second Thursday night in St Louis, he was wel- “Almost half of our priests in Lebanon at Saint Louis University. Akiki emigrated high-profile corruption case to be overturned in Singapore in the past year. Ng Boon Gay, a former head of Singapore’s narcotics comed by hundreds of supporters, includ- are married, so it’s not an unusual event in from Lebanon in 2002, and almost imme- police, was cleared of corruption in February 2013 after a court ing his wife and daughter. For the first the life of the Maronite church, though in diately became a subdeacon at St rejected charges that he demanded oral sex from a female con- time in nearly a century, the Maronite the United States it is,” Deacon Louis Raymond’s, ascending to deacon in 2009. tractor to help her win government deals. — AFP Catholic Church in the United States Peters, chancellor at St Raymond’s, said. It was about a year-and-a-half ago that he ordained a married priest in a ceremony at The ordination ceremony featured several and the church petitioned the Vatican to St Raymond’s Maronite Cathedral near bishops from within the Maronite rite. allow him to enter the priesthood. downtown St Louis. Akiki, 41, speaking at Many members of the St Raymond’s con- Akiki completed seminary studies at Beijing hits back at the end of the two-hour ceremony, called gregation are of Lebanese descent, and Holy Spirit University in Lebanon, Our Lady it a “historic day” and said he had been many of the prayers, hymns and readings of Lebanon Maronite Seminary in US on rights report given two great blessings - marriage to his were in Arabic. Members of the church Washington, DC, and the Aquinas Institute wife of 10 years, Manal, and “the dream to said they were ready to welcome the new of Theology in St Louis. BEIJING: China yesterday issued a report on human rights in the US, serve the Lord and church as a priest.” priest. “He’ll be a wonderful priest,” Linda He and his wife have one daughter, 8- denouncing it for foreign drone strikes, state-sponsored spying and Eastern Catholic churches in the Middle Hill, 54, said. “The fact that he’s married year-old Perla. She read a brief prayer at “rampant” gun crime after Washington criticized its rights record. Beijing East and Europe ordain married men. will be exciting for the church. It’s tradi- her father’s ordination. Peters said that in said the US “concealed and avoided mentioning its own human rights However, the Vatican banned the practice tion in the old country. I guess we’re finally the most recent Maronite Patriarchal problems”, such as a government-run intelligence program known as in America in the 1920s after Latin-rite catching up to the old country.” Stephanie Synod, the church reaffirmed its position PRISM which it said “seriously infringes on human rights”. The document bishops complained it was confusing for Baker, 57 and a lifelong member, agreed. in support of allowing married priests, a came after the State Department issued its annual global human rights parishioners. But Pope John Paul II called “I really think it sets a precedent,” Baker tradition that, worldwide, dates back cen- report Thursday. China regularly produces a statement on the US in for greater acceptance of Eastern Catholic said. “There are a lot of people who have it turies. In a statement, the Archdiocese of response. It does not release rights reports aimed at other countries. The report, released by China’s State Council, or cabinet, singled traditions, and over the years, popes have (the priesthood) in their hearts. This opens St Louis congratulated Akiki. “The out the US for criticism for drone strikes in countries such as Pakistan, made exceptions on a case-by-case basis it up for other people.” That remains to be Archdiocese of St Louis values its strong which it said have caused “heavy civilian casualties”. It also said the US for married men to become Eastern seen. Peters said the pope’s action does relationship with the Maronite community suffers from “rampant gun violence”, while its agricultural sector Catholic priests in America. Pope Francis not lift the ban on married priests in the in St Louis,” the statement read in part. employs a “large amount of child laborers”. Washington’s report gave permission for Akiki to be ordained. US. It is simply an exception. Experts, too, Those attending the ordination applauded released on Thursday praised China for some successes in human Maronites are among more than a dozen cautioned against reading too much into the new priest several times, which clearly rights, such as the abolition of some labor camps and a change to the Eastern Catholic church groups in the US it. “This is certainly not an automatic indi- left him moved. “It is a day of grace and of one-child policy. — AFP Eastern Catholics accept the authority of cation that the mandate of celibacy within joy,” he said.— AP INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Korydallos prison: A window on Greece recent past

ATHENS: With each passing generation, the February, a group of inmates started a hunger well-known anti-fascist rapper in September the deadly extremist group November 17 squalid and overcrowded maximum-security strike to protest “hellish” conditions at the by a Golden Dawn cadre. A third of the party’s were tried and convicted on the premises, Korydallos prison on the outskirts of Athens hospital, which they called a “human dump- parliamentarians are now behind bars, await- inside a makeshift court created specially for welcomes a new breed of high-profile crimi- ing ground”.It holds around 200 patients- ing trial. They are just the latest in a roll-call of the occasion. nal-its roll-call of inmates serving as a window three times the number it was designed to high-profile radicals to grace the cells of A second-generation extremist outfit on Greece’s tumultuous recent past. From accommodate. Many are HIV positive and say Korydallos. Originally conceived in the 1960s called Conspiracy of Fire Nuclei, that sent members of the brutal military junta that care is rudimentary. The outcry forced the as a simple holding facility for those awaiting parcel bombs to embassies and political ruled the country half a century ago, to left- justice ministry into an extraordinary pledge trial, the site half an hour west of Athens soon leaders, followed suit in 2009. Some have wing rebels and neo-Nazi thugs-Korydallos to release all those suffering from terminal or became home to a who’s who of Greece’s questioned the wisdom of housing criminals has seen them all. But the latest twist in debilitating diseases such as cancer, multiple most notorious criminals, from mobsters to and extremists side by side. “The cohabita- Greece’s fortunes has brought a new type of sclerosis and AIDS, provided they are serving murderers to deadly extremists. “Korydallos is tion of common criminals and extremists is a criminal to the prison’s cells: corrupt politi- sentences of 10 years or less. the metropolis of the Greek correctional sys- major problem and contrary to European cians. Chief among them is Akis regulations,” a security source said on condi- Tsochatzopoulos, 73, a founding member of tion of anonymity. the Greek socialist party and a senior minister for nearly two decades. He was sentenced in Helicopter breakout October to 20 years in prison over kickbacks To deal with the overpopulation, which is a received in connection with arms purchases chronic feature in most of Greece’s prisons, during his tenure as defense minister. the prison operators bend the rules to keep Tsochatzopoulos and other white-collar crimi- the situation under control. Last month, the nals are jailed in a section nicknamed the warden was sacked after it emerged that one “VIP” ward by the Greek press, away from the of November 17’s top hitmen had been murderers and rapists in the general popula- allowed to mix with members of the tion. Their ward has filled up as public outrage Conspiracy outfit in a different section of the over decades of graft and financial malprac- prison, and hang out in their cells. The tice has reached boiling point, forcing investi- November 17 shooter, Christodoulos Xiros, gators to take action. was then given a nine-day furlough in January The former defense minister shares the and promptly disappeared, only to resurface ward with several of his former aides, a star two weeks later with a self-made video calling banker whose institution was bailed out in for anti-government attacks. 2011 and a football boss convicted of match- Karakitsos, the guard unionist, says staff fixing. “Korydallos is considered the most cuts have compromised security at the prison. secure prison in the country, which is why you ATHENS: Prisoners in Korydallos Prison, Greece’s biggest, stand at windows during a “I am ashamed about conditions at get all these different groups in one place,” protest by left-wing groups in support of inmates at the overcrowded prison hospital in Korydallos,” he said. “There are so many said Tsochatzopoulos’ lawyer, Yiannis western Athens. — AP inmates that at this rate, we’ll have to lodge Pagoropoulos. “It’s an explosive mix, especial- them in the courtyard.” As well as the hunger ly given the pitiful conditions of inmates.” The Extremists and neo-Nazis tem-all criminals have passed through here at strikes, hostage situations and jailbreaks are prison is certainly a step down from the luxu- Not all the new entrants to the VIP ward some point,” said Spyros Karakitsos, head of not uncommon at Korydallos. The most spec- ry enjoyed by some of its new elite residents. could be considered white-collar. In October, the association of Greek prison staff Osye. tacular breakout occurred in 2009, when a Korydallos currently holds 2,500 inmates, the leader of Greece’s neo-Nazi party Golden Among its most famous inmates were the Greek bank robber and an Albanian hitman twice its intended capacity. Dawn, Nikos Michaloliakos, arrived with sever- senior officers of the 1967-1974 military dicta- escaped from the prison courtyard using a The situation is worst in the prison hospi- al of his party’s members of parliament. The torship, who spent the rest of their lives inside hijacked helicopter. It was an embarrassing tal, where patients complain that overcrowd- group is accused of orchestrating attacks on its walls. The last passed away last year. The deja vu for the prison authorities, as the pair ing has led to the spread of tuberculosis, sca- immigrants and political opponents. A crack- prison acquired new notoriety in the early had previously pulled the same airborne stunt bies and other infectious diseases. In mid- down was finally ordered after the killing of a 2000s when more than a dozen members of in 2006, before being recaptured. — AFP INTERNATIONAL SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 US Tea Party ‘alive and kicking’ Tea Party Patriots mark fifth anniversary WASHINGTON: The foot soldiers of the tea aside to run for the House while more main- The frustration isn’t limited to House and the law’s unpopularity. party movement dismiss the chatter about its stream Rep. Cory Gardner launched a Senate leaders. Steve Gibson of Columbus, Ohio, Cruz drew a rousing response when he demise and stand ready to use their unbend- bid in a political deal. Tea partyers, who said he had offered to help Matt Bevin, the told the crowd he was “absolutely con- ing political force against both President helped Republicans capture control of the Republican businessman challenging vinced we are going to repeal every single Barack Obama and the Republican establish- House in 2010, made clear they don’t like Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, word” of the health care law. Cruz, who has ment this election year. The Tea Party what the GOP establishment has done to R-Ky McConnell, according to Gibson, is helped raise money for groups targeting Patriots, one of the major grass-roots groups, their conservative agenda of limited govern- conservative 70 percent of the time, but incumbent Republicans, has refused to marked the fifth anniversary of the move- ment, free-market policies and what they then “throwing in the towel every time.” endorse his state’s senior senator, John ment Thursday, attracting hundreds of mem- consider fidelity to the Constitution. They sig- Gibson was particularly upset with Cornyn, the Senate’s second-ranking bers and plenty of speakers to a Washington naled they will work hard to elect their McConnell’s recent votes on allowing the Republican, in Tuesday’s primary. Cornyn celebration in which they directed their ani- uncompromising candidates no matter what nation to borrow more money. Boehner, faces Rep Steve Stockman. Another tea par- mosity at the Washington establishment. the establishment does. for his part, said Thursday that he has ty favorite and possible 2016 candidate, Keli Carender, national grass-roots coordi- In Kansas, the Tea Party Express endorsed “great respect for the tea party and the Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky, told the group it nator, said the strength of the group was Milton Wolf, who is opposing three-term Sen. energy they brought to the electoral needs to offer a happy message. reflected in the $1.2 million and counting Pat Roberts in the Republican primary. process. Support for the tea party has declined that it raised in 10 days. To the “establish- Addressing the event, Rep Tim Huelskamp, R- My gripe is with some Washington slightly since 2010, when members rallied ment and permanent political class,” Kan, was interrupted by the crowd, which organizations who feel like they’ve got to around opposition to the health care law. Carender said, “we don’t need their millions, stood and cheered when he said, “It’s high go raise money by beating on me and oth- Just ahead of the 2010 elections, an we’ve got our own.” Republican primaries time we retire (House Speaker) John ers.” If Boehner and McConnell were draw- Associated Press-GfK poll found that 30 this election year will be a crucial test for the Boehner.” When the applause died down, ing the movement’s ire, Sen Ted Cruz was percent of adults considered themselves movement as the GOP establishment has Huelskamp completed his sentence that it collecting praise. The Texas freshman and supporters of the tea party movement. By aggressively challenged tea party-backed was “high time to retire John Boehner’s potential 2016 presidential candidate got a October 2013, that figure had dipped to 17 candidates in Kentucky, Kansas, Idaho, biggest excuse that we only control one-third standing ovation and wild applause when percent, then rebounded to 27 percent last Mississippi, Michigan and elsewhere. of the government.” Viveca Stoneberry of he addressed the event, cheered for his month. Separately, aCBS News-New York Republicans blame the tea party for losses in Spotsylvania, Va., said she was disillusioned fight last fall against Obama’s health care Times poll this week found that 50 percent winnable races in 2010 and 2012 that many with the Republican leadership because law that precipitated the 16-day partial of Republicans who say they back the tea believe cost the GOP a Senate majority. Boehner and others “pretend to be on the government shutdown. He offered no party complain that the party’s candidates The tactics were on display this week in side of conservatives.” Irene Conklin of regrets and argued that the effort has are not conservative enough, while just 19 Colorado. Tea party-affiliated Ken Buck, who Gainesville, Va., said Boehner needs to “take a proved successful in the long run, con- percent of non-tea party Republicans said lost a close Senate race in 2010, stepped solid stand.” tributing to Obama’s low approval ratings the same. —AP

US nuke dump leak raises Big storm brings new worries to S California questions about cleanup LOS ANGELES: Homes were evacuated as a swift storm with expected heavy rain moved toward drought plagued Southern CARLSBAD: Back-to-back accidents and ed elevated levels of plutonium and Mexico. California, bringing worries of mudslides where recent wildfires left an above-ground radiation release have americium in the air. Ground and water With operations at the plant on hold, mountainsides exposed. The storm’s full force was expected to be closed the US government’s only deep samples are being analyzed. so are all shipments, including the last of felt in the morning, with possible thunderstorms and rains up to an underground nuclear waste dump indefi- Officials said they’re confident the inci- nearly 4,000 barrels of toxic waste that Los inch per hour, the National Weather Service said. A 10-mile stretch nitely, raising questions about a corner- dents are unrelated. The Waste Isolation Alamos National Laboratories has been of the Pacific Coast Highway was closed overnight in Ventura stone of the Department of Energy’s $5- Pilot Plant is the nation’s only deep under- ordered to remove from its campus by the County because of a high likelihood of rock slides in an area made billion-a-year program for cleaning up ground geological repository for anything end of June. That waste is now stored out- bare by last year’s Springs Fire in Camarillo, the California Highway waste scattered across the country from contaminated by more than the lowest side with little protection. Also on hold are Patrol said. decades of nuclear bomb making. On Feb levels of radiation. And opponents will cer- tests to see if the dump can expand its On Thursday, mandatory evacuation orders were issued for 5, the mine was shut and six workers sent tainly use the case to fight against any mission to take more than so-called lower about 1,000 homes in Glendora and Azusa, eastern foothill suburbs to the hospital for treatment of smoke expansion of WIPP’s mission, which is to level transuranic waste from the nation’s of Los Angeles that sit beneath nearly 2,000 acres of steep mountain inhalation after a truck hauling salt caught take only transuranic waste from federal research facilities, including hopes by DOE slopes stripped by another fire in January. “We have an hour to get fire. Nine days later, a radiation alert acti- nuclear sites. The closure highlights a lack that it can ship hotter, liquid waste from evacuated,” said Dana Waldusky as she hurried to evacuate the fam- vated in the area where newly arrived of alternatives for disposing of tainted leaking tanks at Washington state’s ily home next to the burn area in Glendora. “We’re just boarding up waste was being stored. Preliminary tests materials like tools, gloves, glasses and Hanford nuclear waste site. New Mexico all our doors.” Waldusky, 22, said she, her parents and sister made show 13 workers suffered some radiation protective suits from national labs in Environment Secretary Ryan Flynn said sure they had important documents, photos, medicines and their exposure, and monitors have since detect- Idaho, Illinois, South Carolina and New the state will be looking closely at what toothbrushes packed. “Last time, at the fire, we had 15 minutes, so caused the leak that exposed the workers this time we made sure we were prepared,” she said. before deciding whether to back plans to The home survived the fire, which firefighters stopped 15 feet allow the repository to bring in waste from from their back fence. “This time there’s nothing you can do. You new sources. can’t stop water,” she said. As a lighter storm moved through the “Events like this should never occur,” area earlier in the week, residents built barriers of wood and sand- he said at a news conference last week bags to keep debris flows in streets and out of homes. While con- where officials confirmed the leak. cern was highest in the Glendora-Azusa area, meteorologists also Government officials, politicians, the con- posted flood watches for many other areas denuded by fires over tractors that run the mine and local offi- the past two years. Cities in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo cials all say it is too soon to speculate on counties were handing out sandbags in anticipation of heavy rain. what the short- or long-term impacts of Even waterspouts offshore and small tornados were possible, the of the shutdown might be, or where the NWS said. Strong winds and snow down to elevations of 7,000 else the toxic waste would go. And they feet were expected in the mountains of San Bernardino and emphasize that all the safety systems Riverside counties, and at lower elevations today. California’s rain designed to react to worst-case scenarios totals are far below normal and it will take a series of drenching worked. “A lot of people are just jumping storms to make a dent in a statewide drought that is among the up and down and wanting us to shut worst in recent history. The state Department of Water Resources down,” said Farok Sharif, president of the took a new survey of the Sierra Nevada snowpack and found the Nuclear Waste Partnership that runs WIPP. water content at only 24 percent of average for the date. “But that’s not the case here.” Still, no one The northern and central Sierra snowpack normally provides yet knows what caused the first-known about a third of the water used by California’s cities and farms. Back radiation release from the massive rooms in Glendora, City Manager Chris Jeffers said he understood that no CARLSBAD: This undated file aerial photo shows the Waste Isolation that have been dug out of the ancient one wants to leave their home but the city had to take an important Pilot Plant near Carlsbad, NM. —AP Permian Sea bed. —AP lesson from history. —AP Ukraine currency Spain makes small profit Euro-zone jobless rate Businessrebounds from record low 16 on first Bankia stake sale 17steady, inflation flat 19 SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Japan economy steady ahead of sales tax hike 18

TOKYO: Mark Karpeles (second right), president of MtGox bitcoin exchange speaks during a press conference in Tokyo yesterday. —AFP Tokyo bitcoin exchange files for bankruptcy Bitcoins worth several hundred million dollars unaccounted for

TOKYO: The Mt Gox bitcoin exchange in Tokyo filed for Gox’s problems. “We’re at a loss for how to help them,” said Yuko Otsuki, bankruptcy protection yesterday and its chief executive said The loss is a giant setback to the currency’s image who works in the agency’s counseling department. 850,000 bitcoins, worth several hundred million dollars, are because its boosters have promoted bitcoin’s cryptography It’s hard to know how many people around the world unaccounted for. as protecting it from counterfeiting and theft. Bitcoin propo- own bitcoins, but the currency has attracted outsize media The exchange’s CEO Mark Karpeles appeared before nents have insisted that Mt. Gox is an isolated case, caused attention and the fascination of millions as an increasing Japanese TV news cameras, bowing deeply. He said a weak- by the company’s technological failures, and the potential of number of large retailers such as Overstock.com begin to ness in the exchange’s systems was behind a massive loss of virtual currencies remains great. accept it. the virtual currency involving 750,000 bitcoins from users Debts at Mt. Gox totaled more than 6.5 billion yen ($65 Speculative investors have jumped into the bitcoin fray, and 100,000 of the company’s own bitcoins. That would million), surpassing its assets, according to Teikoku too, sending the currency’s value fluctuating wildly in recent amount to about $425 million at recent prices. The online Databank, which monitors bankruptcies. Just hours before months. In December, the value of a single bitcoin hit an all- exchange’s unplugging earlier this week and accusations it the bankruptcy filing, Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso time high of $1,200. One bitcoin has cost about $500 lately. had suffered a catastrophic theft have drawn renewed regu- had scoffed that a collapse was only inevitable. Roger Ver, a Tokyo resident who has provided seed capi- latory attention to a currency created in 2009 as a way to “No one recognizes them as a real currency,” he told tal for bitcoin ventures such as Blockchain.info, a registry of make transactions across borders without third parties such reporters. “I expected such a thing to collapse.” bitcoin transactions, said he believes bitcoin will survive, as banks. Japan’s financial regulators have been reluctant to inter- possibly emerging with better technology that’s safer for It remains unclear if the missing bitcoins were stolen, vene in the Mt. Gox situation, saying they don’t have jurisdic- users. He said Mt. Gox people were likely sincere but had voided by technological flaws or both. tion over something that’s not a real currency. They pointed failed to run their business properly. “Mt. Gox is a horrible “I am sorry for the troubles I have caused all the people,” to the Consumer Affairs Agency, which deals with product tragedy. A lot of people lost a lot of money there, myself Karpeles, a Frenchman, said in Japanese at a Tokyo court. safety, as one possible place where disgruntled users may go included,” he said ahead of the bankruptcy filing. “I hope we Karpeles had not made a public appearance since rumors of for help. The agency’s minister Masako Mori urged extreme can use this as a learning experience.” Some countries have the exchange’s insolvency surfaced last month. He said in a caution about using or investing in bitcoins. The agency has reacted sternly to bitcoin’s emergence, but many people web post Wednesday that he was working to resolve Mt. been deluged with calls about bitcoins since earlier this year. remain fans of its potential. BUSINESS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Ukraine currency rebounds from record low LONDON: Ukraine’s hryvnia currency the US, and the IMF loan request are the ‘Russian invasion’ dipped 0.52 percent to 4,373.63. rebounded yesterday from record dol- bigger drivers of hryvnia strength Kiev meanwhile yesterday accused “European markets are still in a con- lar lows after the crisis-hit nation’s cen- today,” said analyst Kathleen Brooks at Russia of staging an “armed invasion” of solidation pattern as optimism over the tral bank slapped a daily limit on cash trading site Forex.com. Crimea and appealed to the West to an accelerating global economy is cur- withdrawals and reached out to the IMF “Capital controls tend to be currency guarantee its territorial integrity after rently being neutralized by uncertainty amid simmering international tensions. negative, while having the US on your pro-Kremlin gunmen took control of the coming out of the Ukraine,” said trader The fast-moving Ukrainian crisis side when you face a formidable force peninsula’s main airport. With this in Markus Huber at London-based broker- weighed on many European stock mar- like Russia is likely to have a bigger mind, London’s benchmark FTSE 100 age Peregrine & Black. “In the United kets, which pulled lower amid fears of a impact. “A pullback from record lows stocks index fell 0.13 percent to stand at States, focus will be on revised Q4 GDP potential wider conflict in the region. versus the dollar is to be expected, 6,801.10 points in midday deals. figures expected to be coming in much Investors also digested a mixed ses- especially now that imminent bank- Frankfurt’s DAX 30 shed 0.10 percent to weaker than the first reading.” He added: sion in Asia after Federal Reserve chief ruptcy looks like it has been avoided.” 9,579.36 points and the Paris CAC 40 “Towards the end of trading today Janet Yellen provided an upbeat view ahead of the weekend it will be interest- of the US economy-and hinted the cen- ing to see who will keep the upper hand, tral bank could ease up on its stimulus with some (investors) possibly reducing taper if the growth outlook weakens. In their risk exposure due to the unrest in a crisis measure, Ukraine’s central bank the Ukraine.” capped cash withdrawals to 15,000 Euro hits 2014 high hryvnia (1,095 euros, $1,400) per day, in Elsewhere, the euro jumped to the latest sign of the desperate state of $1.3813 — its highest level so far this national finances and a run on bank year as stronger-than-expected euro- accounts. zone inflation dampened talk of a rate The news came one day after hike next week from the European Ukraine requested financial support Central Bank (ECB). That compared with from the International Monetary Fund a level of $1.3710 late in New York on (IMF), as Kiev struggles to emerge from Thursday. Euro-zone inflation stood at a bloody political crisis amid height- 0.8 percent in February from a year earli- ened tensions with Russia. The national er, official data showed yesterday. hryvnia currency rose to 9.1800 against Market expectations had been for a the dollar, having plunged to a historic reading of 0.7 percent. “The higher-than- low of 11.3075 on Thursday. expected inflation numbers reduce the “Although the move by the central chances of an ECB rate cut at next week’s bank to limit foreign currency with- meeting and we maintain the view that drawal seems to have propped up the KIEV: People walk past a board of an exchange counter in central Kiev yesterday. on balance the central bank will keep currency, we think that the global show Ukraine’s central bank limited bank withdrawals to about 1,000 euros a day yes- rates on hold,” said ABN Amro econo- of support for Ukraine, especially from terday in the latest sign of the desperate state of national finances. — AFP mist Nick Kounis. — AFP

It’s music on your India’s anemic growth slows to 4.7% ears at Malabar MUMBAI: India’s growth decelerated to 4.7 percent in the October-December quarter last year, the government said Gold & Diamonds yesterday, showing that a return to the robust economic expansion of a few alabar Gold & Diamonds, the prominent retail years ago remains far from reach. It was jeweller announced the details of its unique cam- the fifth quarter in a row that year-on- Mpaign- ‘Stud & Drops Festival’ in the entire GCC year GDP growth was below 5 percent countries & Singapore showcasing an extensive collection in Asia’s third-largest economy. The of studs and drops from over 20 countries in gold, dia- growth rate was down from 4.8 percent mond and platinum. The festival ran from 20 February to for the previous quarter ending in 25 March 2014. September. A woman’s jewellery collection is incomplete without India’s government has struggled to the right pair of earrings, which speaks about her person- bring back the 8 percent growth rate ality. The biggest hassle the country averaged for a decade. That the customers go level is what the government says is through during jewellery needed to provide jobs for the 13 mil- purchase is with the lion people entering the workforce each choice of studs and year out of a population of 1.2 billion. drops that suits them. Growth in the latest quarter was This exclusive festival dragged down by a year-on-year con- gives their customers a traction of 1.8 percent in manufacturing unique chance to choose and a 1.6 percent drop in mining. Just a from a stunning collec- few years ago, India was touted as a ris- tion of earrings designed ing economic power that could even and handcrafted by outdo China. But both growth and skilled artisans around enthusiasm began to fade starting in the world, ranging from 2012 as shortages of electricity for lightweight daily wear to industry discouraged investment and heavy party wear in traditional as well as international the decrepit state of roads and ports designs to suit every occasion. hampered trade in goods. A tangled JAMSHEDPUR: India’s Tata Steel Plant in Jamshedpur. India posted slightly Their branded jewellery, Era- uncut diamond jewellery, bureaucracy to approve new projects lower-than-expected growth of 4.7 percent in the last quarter of 2013, data Ethnix- hand crafted designer jewellery, Mine- diamonds and delays in economic reforms added showed yesterday, marking more bad news for the ruling Congress party unlimited, Divine- Heritage jewellery, Precia- precious to the disillusion, while high inflation ahead of looming elections. — AFP gem jewellery, Starlet- kids jewellery and D’VA- the youth and weak Indian consumer spending makes that difficult because any drop in and the government budget is just collection will also be on display during the festival. have also hurt the economy. While interest rates could push prices even about all gone.” Elections to be held by Malabar Gold & Diamonds is always at the forefront India’s has managed to bring down its higher, hurting the hundreds of millions the end of May could produce a change when it comes to promotions and festivals. The immacu- worrisome fiscal and trade deficits in the of poor Indians who spend half their in the government and possibly open late collection of studs and drops are available at their last year, it has been unable to spur income on food and basic necessities. the door for reforms to make the econo- outlets in Singapore, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi growth. While the government and “There is little on the horizon to lift my more productive and competitive, Arabia and Oman with their unique exchange offers and businesses might like the central bank the economy in 2014,” economist Glenn but regardless of which party wins, buyback policies. The jewellery chain offers lifetime free to cut interest rates to try to stimulate Levine wrote in a report for Moody’s Levine said, “it will be a long road back repair and maintenance service for all its products. spending, the country’s high inflation Analytics. “Business confidence is low for the Indian economy.” — AP BUSINESS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 EU-US trade talks face growing hostility Ministers warn against mistrust

ATHENS: Free-trade talks between the goods and services each day, and by EU safety and environmental standards. United States and the European Union deepening economic ties, the pact could The talks have also been overshad- are in danger of being derailed by pop- create a market of 800 million people owed by widespread distrust of ulist groups opposing everything from where business could be done freely. The Washington caused by reports the United globalization to multinationals, EU minis- EU’s trade chief Karel De Gucht conceded States bugged EU offices and German ters and business leaders said yesterday. that, outside business circles, there was Chancellor Angela Merkel’s mobile phone. The rise of anti-EU parties, reports of little public awareness about the pro- In the United States, President Barack MADRID: Portuguese Prime Minister and leader of US spying in Europe and accusations that posed Transatlantic Trade and Obama’s efforts to speed up agreement centre-right Social Democratic Party (PSD) Pedro a trade pact would pander to big compa- Investment Partnership, which is often on the deal, by renewing a ‘fast-track’ Passos Coelho (center) speaks during the interna- nies have combined to erode public sup- known by its initials as “T-TIP”. trade promotion authority, have faced tional conference Project Europe in Madrid yester- port for a deal that proponents say would “When we talk about T-TIP, some peo- resistance from members of his own day. The two-day conference brings together a dramatically increase economic growth. ple think it is an extraterrestrial,” De Gucht Democratic party, some of them sceptical range of European leaders from public and private “We are grappling with people who said. about the benefits of unfettered free are anti-European, who are anti- Nils Andersen of Danish shipper A.P. trade. sectors and the media to discuss Europe’s current American, who are anti-free trade, who Moller-Maersk , who was among chief The ‘fast track’ authority, which expired challenges and opportunities with key themes being are anti-globalization and who are anti- executives invited to the debate, said in 2007, would allow Obama to present youth unemployment, investment and jobs. — AFP multinational corporations,” Finland’s there was a danger of voters being the trade to Congress for a simple ‘yes/no’ minister for Europe and trade, Alexander “hijacked by populist statements”. vote, avoiding the risk of lawmakers pick- Stubb, told his EU counterparts and busi- ing it apart clause by clause and delaying Spain makes small ness leaders at a meeting in Athens. “We Yes or no? its chances of becoming law indefinitely. have an uphill battle to make the argu- Public support is crucial because the De Gucht said the EU’s tight regula- profit on first ment that this EU-US free-trade agree- European Parliament and the US Congress tion in the sensitive issue of genetically ment is a good one,” he said in remarks must ratify the agreement once it is made. modified food would not change, even if Bankia stake sale that were broadcast to reporters. With EU lawmakers have already shown a will- Brussels and Washington did sign an the euro zone’s economy barely out of a ingness to reject deals they think do not accord. MADRID: Spain is making a 301 million euro ($412 million) two-year recession, EU governments see have enough public support - for example Some Europeans are worried about profit on the sale of a 7.5 percent stake in Bankia, the lender’s a trade deal with the United States as the the global Anti-Counterfiting Trade what impact GM crops and products - parent company BFA said, as the government started to best way to create jobs. They say a pact Agreement (ACTA) thrown out in 2012. often dubbed “Frankenstein Food” - might return the country’s biggest bailed-out bank to private owner- encompassing almost half the world’s US-EU trade talks initially enjoyed a warm have on health and the environment. “We ship. The shares were sold at 1.51 euros each yesterday, a dis- economy could generate $100 billion in reception when they were launched in are not dumping down our standards,” De count of around 4 percent to their closing price on Thursday additional economic output a year on July last year. But European consumer and Gucht said. “I will not agree to put hor- but 12 percent higher than the 1.35 euros the government both sides of the Atlantic. green groups said a deal letting firms mone beef on the European market or bought them at last year. Bankia said the demand for the The European Union and the United operate freely in both the EU and the change our laws on genetically modified shares topped 2.5 billion euros, almost twice the amount on States already trade almost $3 billion in United states might let companies bypass organisms.” —Reuters offer, with international institutional investors showing the biggest interest. While the sale is a powerful argument for the Portugal vows to government as it struggles to convince angry Spaniards that the cleanup of the banking system has been a success, Spain is still a long way from recouping the more than 22 billion stick to austerity euros it injected into Bankia, a merger of seven failed regional savings banks. as bailout ends Bankia became a symbol of Spain’s financial crisis after the huge losses it and other banks suffered due to a property MADRID: Portugal will stick to its austerity course after its finan- market collapse forced the government to take 41.3 billion cial bailout program of 78 billion euros ($106 billion) ends in May, euros in European aid to rescue its weakest lenders. Based on Portuguese Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho said yesterday. the Bankia’s current market capitalisation, the remaining 60.9 The country has been living under the strict rules of the rescue percent stake of the state in the lender is worth around 11.1 program agreed in May 2011 with the so-called troika of the EU, billion euros. the International Monetary Fund and the European Central Bank. Bankia shares were down 3.8 percent at 1.52 euros at In exchange for rescue loans, Portugal agreed to push through NEW DELHI: Seemanto Roy, Sahara group Executive austerity measures and deep reforms that have sparked reces- around 1000 GMT. Senior government sources have told Director, addresses a press conference following his Reuters the state could sell its stake in several stages this year sion, pushed up unemployment and encountered increasing father and Sahara group chairman Subrata Roy’s resistance from unions and voters. Passos Coelho said Portugal but would keep control of the bank until its Europe-agreed surrender to the police in New Delhi yesterday. The restructuring is fully completed. would “enter into a new phase” after the bailout package expires The economy ministry closely followed the successful sale head of India’s giant Sahara group Subrata Roy sur- on May 17. by the British government of a 6 percent stake in part-nation- rendered to police yesterday two days after the “This new phase will not signify a return to fiscal indiscipline, alized Lloyds last September. Another Lloyds share offering is Supreme Court ordered his arrest over delays in to a loss of competitiveness, to the accumulation of debt and of set to take place in March or April, with possibly a small num- repaying billions of dollars illegally collected from economic stagnation,” he said during a speech at conference in ber of shares being offered to retail investors. —Reuters small investors. —AFP Madrid on the future of the European Union. “Portugal has experi- enced with great suffering where that path leads us. Believe me the Portuguese know very well the price we pay for irresponsibili- ty and shortsightedness in political choices. We say no to irre- Interserve buys Rentokil unit sponsibility.” Portugal’s international creditors on Wednesday called on all Building services and construction company He said there was “definitely a more optimistic nears the end of a major restructuring program to parties and citizens in the country to back austerity measures for Interserve Plc is buying a maintenance business outlook” for 2014, based on the uptick in Britain’s focus on core businesses. It said proceeds from the “a few more years” after its financial bailout package ends in May. from Rentokil Initial Plc for 250 million pounds construction sector at the end of last year. sale would be used primarily to pay down debt. “The troika have let it be known that it will be good to have a ($417 million), in pursuit of double-digit growth in Interserve shares jumped as much as 6 percent The 8 percent rise in profit for the year to Dec bigger consensus, not only with the PS (opposition Socialist Party) earnings next year. The FTSE-250 company, whose after the announcement of the deal and annual 31, 2013 was led by Interserve’s maintenance unit but also with the whole of Portuguese society,” said Miguel services range from cleaning Sainsbury’s supermar- results showing an 8 percent rise in profit last year. and an early recovery in the British property sector Frasquilho of the ruling centre-right PSD, following a meeting kets to building shopping malls in the Middle East, Initial Facilities provide services including cleaning, that offset weak international construction in the with representatives from the creditor institutions. said buying Initial Facilities adds maintenance con- catering, security, and mechanical and energy first half of last year. Its London-listed shares traded Troika representatives arrived Wednesday in Lisbon to look at tracts at JP Morgan, the London Underground, management. as high as 609 pence on Friday morning. This was the country’s accounts before it leaves the program. The Debenhams and others to its business. Interserve said it planned a share placement of still far below the company’s intrinsic value of Portuguese economy emerged from recession last year and The deal will add double-digit percentage up to 9.9 percent of its ordinary shares to part fund 1,077.2 pence, according to Thomson Reuters unemployment has begun to fall from record levels as the gov- growth to earnings next year and a little less in the deal, with the rest coming from a new bank StarMine’s model of how much a stock should be ernment has worked to squeeze down the country’s public 2014, probably mid-single digits, Interserve Chief facility. The sale comes as Rentokil, whose services worth when considering expected growth rates deficit. Despite Portugal’s efforts the main ratings agencies still Executive Adrian Ringrose told Reuters. range from pest control to catering and security, over the next 15 years. —Reuters classify the country’s bonds as junk. —AFP BUSINESS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Japan economy steady ahead of sales tax hike Recovery still vulnerable to reversal

TOKYO: Japan’s recovery is holding steady ahead of a looming sales tax hike, economic indicators showed yesterday though weak- ness in wages and spending suggest it remains vulnerable to a reversal. The consumer price index rose 1.3 per- cent in January and factory production also A customer checks fish for sale at Sittwe market, Rakhine climbed. Past experience suggests Japan state western Myanmar yesterday. — AFP will see a big plunge in demand after the 3 percentage point tax hike to 8 percent on April 1, said economist Masamichi Adachi of Pearson earnings JP Morgan in Tokyo. “It is a very difficult time to gauge the underlying strength of to fall in year the economy,” he said. As manufacturers and retailers raise prices to compensate for higher costs they are passing them on to of restructuring consumers, who already appear to be tight- ening their belts to compensate. Japanese LONDON: Britain’s Pearson warned its earnings would fall awoke yesterday to front-page reports of sharply again in 2014 as the publisher entered the second plans for hikes in the prices paid for vend- year of a restructuring sparked by the deterioration in its ing machine soft drinks and plans for fur- main US education market. ther increases in gas and electricity rates. Contrary to earlier expectations, manu- Pearson, the 170-year-old world leader in education TOKYO: People look around a clothing store in Tokyo. Japan’s consumer price facturers are forecasting that factory output which is under new leadership after years of good growth, index rose 1.3 percent in January and factory production also climbed, sug- suffered a tough 2013 and downgraded its outlook twice. will fall in March, following a 4 percent increase in January to about the level it was gesting the recovery in the world’s third-largest economy is holding steady The weaker-than-expected outlook for this year wiped ahead of an April 1 tax hike. — AP another 700 million pounds off its market value in early at before a massive earthquake and tsuna- Friday trading, to take the fall in the share price since the mi hit northeastern Japan in March 2011, more structural change, so people will or other payments, for the first time in beginning of the year to more than 25 percent. the Ministry of Economy, Trade and believe things will change.” In a rare cau- years. But such increases are likely to be Industry reported. “This is the biggest restructuring in Pearson’s history tionary remark Thursday, a Bank of Japan modest at less than the equivalent of $100 Japan’s financial industry and banks are and we’re doing it at a time when our biggest business, vice governor, Takehori Sato, emphasized a month and will affect only a fraction of relatively sound, compared with the 1990s. that the central bank must focus on a full the work force. For most workers, real North America, is facing the most difficult trading condi- Its companies have much less debt and tions it has in a decade,” Chief Executive John Fallon said and sustainable recovery, rather than just incomes will continue to fall as prices rise. there is no reason to expect a major region- achieving the government’s inflation target January’s 1.3 percent rise in core inflation yesterday. “It is going to pay off and we will start to see it al crisis similar to the one that slammed the pay off in 2015.” of 2 percent. “What the price stability target marked the eighth straight month of price economy in 1997, plunging the economy aims to achieve after all is not simply a rise increases and matched the increase in Pearson shares were down 7.1 percent, the biggest fall- into recession. By coincidence, that period in prices. Rather, it aims to achieve a situa- December. Excluding both food and ener- er on the FTSE 100 index of blue-chip shares. “Results from of economic trauma followed a tax hike in tion in which a rise in prices is accompanied gy, prices rose 0.7 percent, also on a par Pearson have kicked investor hopes of quick recovery into Japan. The government and central bank by a rise in wages, coupled with an with the month before. The “‘core’ and the long grass,” said Jonathan Helliwell, analyst at Edison have unleashed a flood of monetary and fis- improvement in the overall economy,” Sato ‘core-core’ measures have started to level Investment Research. cal stimulus aimed at breaking Japan free said. Given the expected impact of the tax off at levels well short of the target,” Pearson, which also owns the Financial Times and a 47 from a long spell of deflation, or falling hike, “we have to avoid leaving an impres- Capital Economics said in a commentary. percent stake in the Random House Penguin book group, prices, that is thought to discourage invest- sion that the Bank has been solely pursuing It said that suggests the Bank of Japan for years beat market expectations as it rolled out its edu- ment and spending. a pick-up in prices without due attention to needs to do more to hit its eventual infla- cation and testing business around the world. But it was But the central bank needs to ensure the economy.” tion target of 2 percent. hit by a string of managerial changes and slowing growth financial markets remain stable and Prime The jobless rate remained steady at 3.7 in 2013. Fallon took over from the 16-year veteran Minister Shinzo Abe needs to deliver on Jobless rate steady percent, with 104 job offers for every 100 Marjorie Scardino last year and, faced with stalling earn- promises for reforms to help make the March is labor negotiation season in job seekers. Companies generally have ings growth, embarked on a 150 million pound restructur- economy more competitive, Adachi said. Japan, and some of the biggest compa- stepped up use of overtime and hiring of “Confidence matters a lot for Abenomics,” ing program to boost margins and counter tighter educa- nies have indicated they are open to rais- part-time workers to handle higher he said. “More stimulus is necessary and tional budgets. It has been hit particularly in the United ing base wages, rather than just bonuses demand. —AP States where fewer people are enrolling in college courses as the economy recovers, and where states have put off spending on school books as they wait for a new Common Core education program to roll out. Oil slips below $109 The British group warned in January that its 2013 earn- ings would be lower than expected due to higher restruc- turing costs and poor demand for its North America edu- cation business in its key selling period, the fourth quarter. on demand concerns Prior to Pearson’s 2013 results published yesterday, Reuters data showed that of 25 analysts covering the com- pany, 18 recommend investors to either hold or sell its LONDON: Oil eased below $109 a barrel yesterday as tension took control of two airports in the Crimea region yesterday in shares. in Ukraine dampened risk appetite and easing winter weather what Ukraine’s government described as an invasion and Pearson’s restructuring program is designed to acceler- raised expectations of weaker demand. A severe winter in the occupation by Russian forces. “The current situation is more ate the move from print to digital services, and increase its United States supported oil prices in the early part of the year, bearish than bullish for oil prices as oil supply has not been presence in fast-growing emerging markets such as China, helping oil avoid the weakness of other risk assets such as affected so far and the dollar is strengthening against the Brazil and India to tap into the rise in spending by a bur- base metals, as have supply losses in Libya and South Sudan. Ukrainian currency and the euro as risk appetite is hit,” said oil geoning and aspirational middle class. Brent crude fell 55 cents to $108.41 a barrel by 0955 GMT, brokers PVM in a report. The 2013 results showed that North American educa- after dropping 56 cents in the previous session. US oil Concern about the demand outlook for the US and China, tion made up more than 53 percent of the 5.2 billion declined 42 cents to $101.98. “Oil is not reacting like other risk the world’s largest and second-largest oil consumers, also pounds of group sales, while international education markets because of the winter and geopolitical tensions in the weighed on prices. China’s yuan looked set for its biggest daily made up 30 percent. Middle East,” said Jonathan Barratt, chief executive of com- loss on record yesterday. The US government is set to cut its Adjusted earnings per share fell to 70.1 pence, after modity research firm Barratt’s Bulletin in Sydney. estimate of fourth-quarter growth as exports and restocking restructuring charges, from 82.6 pence in 2012. The com- “As the weather improves, some shine on that will come by businesses were less robust than previously thought. The pany said at current exchange rates, adjusted EPS should off. China’s slowdown will compound it even more. The mar- Commerce Department will release its fresh estimate of be between 62 pence and 67 pence this year. The only kets shouldn’t be here.” Brent is set to end the week down 1 fourth-quarter GDP at 1330 GMT. Oil supplies appear to be bright spot in the numbers was a 7 percent rise in the divi- percent, the biggest drop in four weeks. US crude is set to end more plentiful. Iranian exports have increased so far this year. dend, which the group said reflected its confidence that it the week slightly lower, snapping six straight weeks of gains - Global spare production capacity inched higher in January would return to growth in 2015. — Reuters the longest period of weekly rises in a year. and February the US government’s Energy Information Rising tension in Ukraine was also in focus. Armed men Administration said on Thursday. — Reuters BUSINESS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Hollande’s hiring targets in doubt as reform talks begin

PARIS: French unions and employ- But employers and even some Thouvenel said unions were likely to ers started talks yesterday over how union leaders agree such goals see hiring goals per professional sec- to cut social charges weighing on would be unworkable. “From a tor, not on a national level, and that companies, though both sides macroeconomic point of view it’s they may be defined in qualitative doubted the cuts could be linked to absurd to think that we can set a terms rather than numerically. “Of hiring targets as President Francois numerical (hiring) target,” Laurent course you can’t have set the same Hollande first promised. Berger, head of the CFDT, France’s objectives for the automotive sector, The government hopes the par- largest union by membership, told which is in decline, and the aeronau- ties will agree by early April on the Les Echos business daily. tic sector, which is expanding,” he terms of Hollande’s so-called Pierre Gattaz, the head of France’s added. “responsibility pact”, which aims to main employers group Medef, has Hollande is relying on lower labor restore French corporate margins - previously cited a target of creating costs to kick-start hiring and eco- the lowest in the euro zone - by cut- one million extra jobs. But since then nomic growth quickly after he failed ting what they pay in social charges he has said he would reject any last year to start bringing down by some 30 billion euros ($41.00 bil- legally-binding hiring targets. Talks unemployment, currently above 11 lion). are due to conclude shortly after percent. Jobless data for January showed a local elections in late March with a Despite billions of euros spent on new rise, after the Socialist-led gov- draft law based on the deal to be subsidized jobs, a reform loosening ernment failed to keep a promise to sent to parliament around rules on hiring and firing and a major get unemployment coming down by September, delaying any potential tax break for companies, joblessness PARIS: A producer from Brittany gives a piece of cheese to the end of 2013. Unveiling the plan boost to job creation until the final hit a record in January with the num- French Interior Minister Manuel Valls (left) while French last month as part of a shift to more quarter of 2014. ber of people out of work up by Agriculture Minister Stephane Le Foll (right) looks on during business-friendly policies, Hollande “The pact will take effect over 8,900. Sapin said this week the job- their visit to the Paris International Agricultural Show yester- said business would in exchange time, but nobody is able to say that it less total should start to fall this year. have to commit to “clear, precise, will start to create jobs in six or eight But the European Commission fore- day in Paris. The 51st edition of the Paris International measurable and verifiable” hiring months,” said Joseph Thouvenel, cast that France’s jobless rate to stay Agricultural Show is taking place until March 2. —AFP targets. vice president of the CFTC union. at 11 percent in 2014. —Reuters IAG confident on Euro-zone jobless rate 2015 profit target LONDON: British Airways-owner International Airlines Group steady, inflation flat said it was on track to more than double profit over the next two years, as a turnaround at its Iberia unit gains traction and it drives down costs across its business. IAG swung to a profit last Draghi sees no deflation threat year, boosted by a strong performance at British Airways and on revenue from newly acquired low-cost carrier Vueling, BRUSSELS: The euro-zone unemployment rate component, food, alcohol and tobacco prices setting up a vicious downward circle. which competes with Ryanair and easyJet in European short- was steady at a near-record 12 percent in rose 1.5 percent in February, a slower rate than ECB chief Mario Draghi insisted again haul. Operating profit was 770 million euros ($1 billion) before January, with a modest economic recovery yet the 1.7 percent reported in January while Thursday that he saw no danger of deflation exceptional items last year, beating an analysts’ consensus to produce any sharp headline improvement, energy costs were down 2.2 percent after a fall as there was no “evidence of consumers post- forecast of 765 million from a 23 million loss in 2012. IAG’s tar- while February inflation was also flat, data of 1.2 percent, Eurostat said. Inflation has poning expenditure plans.” Even though cur- get, which it raised by 12.5 percent in November, is to lift oper- showed yesterday. trended steadily lower in recent months, com- rent inflation rates “can clearly not be consid- ating profit to 1.8 billion euros for 2015, through cost cuts at The official figures suggest the bloc contin- ing in well below the ECB target of close to but ered close to 2.0 percent... we are clearly not in BA, Iberia’s recovery and Vueling growth. ues to make slow progress after exiting a just under 2.0 percent and stoking concerns deflation, which is defined as a self-reinforcing Shares in IAG, which have doubled over the last twelve record 18-month recession in second quarter about a risk of deflation, or falling prices in fall in prices that is broad-based across items months, fell 3 percent to 438 pence by 1106 GMT. “They’re in 2013 but growth since then has been far from absolute terms. and across countries,” Draghi said. line with consensus but one got the impression that there was stellar, reflected in the high jobless figures and Deflation is dangerous because if con- Archer said inflation may have bottomed an expectation that given their cost measures and the strength low inflation. Analysts said the economy seems sumers believe prices will fall they put off pur- out but it “is still markedly lower than the ECB of North Atlantic that they could have beaten consensus,” RBC to be stabilizing but the European Central Bank chases, which forces companies to delay would like,” a concern when coupled with analyst Damian Brewer said. will have to be on guard and ready to take investment, hitting salaries and jobs, and so falling bank lending to businesses. —AFP Reconfirming its 2015 profit target yesterday, IAG said it more stimulus measures if need be. expected to make steady progress this year by cutting costs. Inflation is muted while the “jobs problem “They’re still guiding to a 2015 figure of 1.8 billion euros, so is far from over as the unemployment rate they obviously have a lot of work to do this year. In that con- remains damagingly high at 12 percent,” said text with the stock having doubled, and these numbers only Howard Archer of IHS Global Insight. The being in line, you’re going to get some profit taking,” Cantor January outcome meant the jobless rate has analyst Robin Byde said. been flat at 12 percent since hitting a record Chief Executive Willie Walsh said the company was heading 12.1 percent in September. For the 28-member in the right direction to be able to reinstate its dividend. “Our European Union, the January unemployment intention is to get the business to a position where it can pay a rate was also unchanged at 10.8 percent. The dividend and sustain the significant capital expenditure pro- euro-zone jobless total in January was 19.18 gram that we have embarked on,” he said. million, with 26.23 million out of work in the “Clearly with the progress we’ve made in 2013 over 2012, EU, representing falls of 67,000 and 449,000 and our restatement of our goal for 2015, we’re certainly on compared with January 2013. track to achieve that situation,” he told reporters on a call. Compared with December 2013, however, Iberia, which has dragged on group earnings since the both totals were up by 17,000. By country, the merger with BA in 2011, narrowed its operating loss by 185 lowest January unemployment rates were in million euros to 166 million euros in the year. Austria, on 4.9 percent, with 5.0 percent in “Iberia’s making good progress. It’s ahead of where we Germany, Europe’s biggest economy. Twice- believed it would be in 2013 and is on line to be profitable in bailed out Greece was hardest hit with 28 per- 2014,” Walsh said. IAG has agreed with Spanish pilots on cut- cent (based on November figures) followed by ting labor costs. That and new capacity at BA would drive Spain on 25.8 percent. KABUL: Afghan laborers work at a construction site in Kabul yesterday. down units costs and lift profits, he said, noting that perform- Low inflation, deflation concerns Afghanistan’s economy is recovering from decades of conflict but ance was good across its markets, except in the Spanish despite the significant improvement in the last decade it is extremely domestic market. —Reuters Inflation in the 18-nation currency bloc was flat at 0.8 percent in February, Eurostat said. By poor, and highly dependent on foreign aid. — AFP BUSINESS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 German retail Cyprus to put amended sales surprise to upside in January sell-off bill to MPs FRANKFURT: German retailers reported a surprisingly strong increase in business at the start of the year, official Deadline from lenders looms data showed yesterday. Retail sales, a closely watched measure of household con- NICOSIA: Cyprus was to put an amend- fidence, increased by 2.5 percent in January compared with ed privatization bill before parliament December, the federal statistics office Destatis said in a state- yesterday in a bid to meet a looming ment. That was the strongest increase since February 2007, deadline from lenders to release the the statisticians said. Retail sales had dropped by 2.0 percent next tranche of a 10-billion-euro loan. in December and analysts had been forecasting a much MPs failed to adopt a first version of the more modest increase for January. controversial bill in a tied vote on On a 12-month basis, business increased by 0.9 percent Thursday evening which threw the in January compared with the same month last year, the statisticians calculated. Retail sales data are subsequent to bailout deal with international creditors frequent revision, but following a rise in a key consumer con- into disarray. fidence index earlier this week, analysts said the outlook for The government has said it needs to household spending in Germany looks positive. “German pass the legislation for the sale of state households began the new year 2014 on an optimistic note utilities by Wednesday to meet the con- according to confidence surveys and the hard data reflect ditions set by the European Central that,” said Berenberg Bank economist Christian Schulz. The Bank, the European Commission and GfK consumer confidence barometer rose in February and is the International Monetary Fund. MPs projected to rise again in March. will convene in emergency session on “The outlook for consumption in Germany is bright and Tuesday to debate the amended text, the January data hint at the potential. A strong labor market, state radio reported. Government low inflation and an improving economic outlook give spokesman Christos Stylianides said it Turkish Cypriot farmer Mehmet Eligon picks hay with a pitchfork on his farm in households the confidence and means to spend more,” was critical that parliament pass the the village of Kirni in the breakaway northern, Turkish Cypriot part of ethnical- Schulz said. legislation to avoid jeopardizing the ly split Cyprus. — AP “We expect private consumption to be a robust driver of credibility of Cyprus’s efforts to restore economic growth this year, which could make a strong start stability after the March 2013 bailout the situation.” kept protesters at a distance during into 2014 according to the data received so far,” the expert deal which was accompanied by a Thursday’s debate after hundreds of said. severe banking crisis and plunged the Tight timetable electricity authority workers laid siege to Natixis economist Johannes Gareis agreed. The data island into deep recession. He said the Conservative President Nicos parliament on Monday and scuffles “underline our scenario that private consumption continues new bill would contain amendments to Anastasiades, who just last week was broke out with police. to play a prominent role in Germany’s economy this year, reflect the concerns of the centre-right boasting of a “new economic miracle” Staff fear there will be layoffs to after it lost steam in the fourth quarter,” he said. “All in all, on the island following last year’s near- make the utilities attractive to buyers upbeat consumer confidence, lower unemployment, lower DIKO party, five of whose MPs abstained in Thursday’s cliffhanger vote. meltdown, echoed the point in a tweet. which will throw them onto the job price inflation, and record-low interest rates should clearly “I am determined to keep the coun- market at a time of record unemploy- translate into more consumer spending in Germany this “The new bill to be tabled by the try on the path of stabilization and ment. “Workers’ rights are safeguarded, year,” Gareis said. government today (Friday) incorporates Annalisa Piazza at Newedge Strategy said that house- many of the amendments that were dis- recovery,” he said. Stylianides said the as they currently stand in each semi- holds were seeing the benefit of a resilient labor market and cussed (with MPs) and consented to by amendments would safeguard the governmental organization which is in some improvement in their disposable income. “Lower infla- the minister of finance, so we hope to rights of staff of the island’s ports, pow- the process of being privatized,” tion, coupled with rising employment and rising income have a vote in favor of the bill,” er and telecoms utilities which are ear- Stylianides said. growth, represent solid pre-conditions for a rebound in con- Stylianides said. marked for privatization. The troika of international lenders is sumer spending in the first quarter,” she said. “That said, we “It is a very critical issue. We hope to Workers of all three have held strikes demanding Cyprus raise 1.4 billion rule out that German retail sales will continue to rise at the have the consent of the House so that in the past week, drawing condemna- euros ($1.9 billion) through a two-year same pace in the remainder of the quarter. Indeed, the series we do not have a regrettable incident tion from employers who warned that program of privatizations. But critics fear remains very volatile and the January increase might be that affects the reliability and validity of the unions were dealing a death knell to the government will underprice the util- seen also as a technical correction after the dismal pre- the Republic at a time when it has a recession-hit economy already on its ities and that the move will damage Christmas retail activity,” Piazza said. — AFP recovered its credibility and stabilized knees. Around 200 police in riot gear workers and consumers alike. — AFP Pakistan economy grows beyond targets

KARACHI: Pakistan recorded five per- GDP growth in fiscal year 2014 was dis- cent growth in the first quarter of the cernible,” the bank said. Pakistan’s current fiscal year, the central bank economists had set a growth target for said yesterday, beating its target and the current financial year of 4.4 per- almost doubling the figure for the cent, and the central bank in earlier same period last year. The State Bank reports had forecast growth of four of Pakistan data for the early months of percent. the financial year began in July, 2013 The upbeat first quarter perform- said GDP grew by 5.0 percent, com- ance came on the back of good per- pared with only 2.9 percent in the first formances by the industrial and servic- quarter of the last fiscal year. es sectors, the report said. However the Nuclear-armed Pakistan, plagued by bank warned that inflation swelled to a bloody, destabilizing Islamist insur- 8.1 percent in the first quarter com- gency and chronic power shortages, pared with 5.6 percent in the corre- has struggled to energize its economy sponding period last year. in recent years. Growth has bumped The IMF approved a $6.7 billion along well below the level experts say bailout loan package for Pakistan in is needed to absorb new entrants to September last year to help the coun- RAWALPINDI: A Pakistani vendor cranks a manual ferris wheel ridden by children by the side of a the workforce from Pakistan’s growing, try achieve economic reforms, particu- street in Rawalpindi yesterday. Pakistan was on track to receive a third loan tranche worth $550 youthful population. “Since the macro- larly in its troubled energy sector. The million from the International Fund this year, the Washington-based lender indicated February 10, economic indicators were favorable at fund also observed that Pakistan’s saying the nation’s economic recovery was gathering pace. — AFP the start of the year, the increase in real economy was picking up. — AFP 2014 SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 1, MARCH SATURDAY, www.kuwaittimes.net

Philly Flower Show brings art canvases to life PAGE 26

This picture released by the Bowen Tourism Center shows a man standing next to a 10- metre and seven-ton mango monument in the statue’s hometown of Bowen, in Queensland. — AFP

Hollywood primed for Oscars night PAGE 25 SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Shakira opens new school for underprivileged kids

he ‘Can’t Remember To Forget You’ singer Cartagena, will educate 1,700 needy children rang- went back to her home country Colombia to ing from toddlers to teenagers. Shakira brought 13- Topen the new facility on Monday which has month-old Milan, her son with soccer star Gerard been funded by her Pies Descalzos charity. She told PiquÈ, with her for his first visit to Columbia, and got Billboard.com: “This is part of my advocacy: Promote him a passport while they were there. Talking about access to universal education. “I want to demon- her hopes for the students of the school, she added: strate through the Pies Descalzos model how we can “I’m so happy to see so many joyful faces in these change the lives, not only of the children who come students. “They’ll have the tools necessary to to school, but also their families. Entire communities become good citizens, far from violence and drugs. can be transformed when you have a school that We dream of the day in which there will be no child functions properly.” The school, located in without an education in Colombia.”

he N-Dubz singer and reality TV star has been charged over an alleged incident in the early hours yesterday Tmorning after a performance at Chicago’s Nightclub in Essex, Southern England. A police source said Dappy will Claudia Schiffer face allegations of “assault by beating” under his real name, Costadinos Contostavlos. The spokesperson added to the Daily Mirror newspaper: “He has been released on bail prior to his appearance at Chelmsford Magistrates Court on March turns down 19.” The singer and rapper had earlier said he enjoyed his night at the club, writing on Twitter: “Had a great night in Chicagos. Crowd was amazing.” A source close to the 26- £1m dinner date year-old star - who was recently a runner-up on ‘Celebrity Big Brother’ - denied he was responsible for the altercation. The friend said: “He acted in complete self defense.” In December 2008 Dappy pleaded guilty to two accounts of he German supermodel was assault after reportedly spitting in a girl’s face during a night offered the huge amount by an TArab prince, but didn’t take him up out. In 2013 he was also convicted of affray and assault by beating over a fight on a petrol on it as she thought it was “strange”. station forecourt, for Asked by talk show host Jonathan Ross which he what requests she had during her huge received a six- success in the 90s, she replied: “Loads month sen- of weird ones, but the strangest one tence, sus- was from an Arab prince. “He asked pended for 18 if he could hire me for a dinner for months as a million pounds. I declined, and well as some other supermodel took it.” being Claudia - who is married to film ordered to director Matthew Vaughn - do 150 declined to say which prince hours made her the offer. She also communi- claimed she was a “loser” ty service at school. She said: and pay “Everyone called me Duck £4,500 because my bum stuck compen- out and I walked kind of sation and funny because my legs £2,000 in are a bit funny, and I costs. Outside was really tall. I didn’t of court after have any friends.” receiving the Although she’s now charges he told used to being pho- the BBC: “I tographed for mag- Dappy charged with assault thought it was the azines and appear- end. Everything I’d ing in adverts in just worked so hard for her underwear, the all these years. I can’t model claims she is lie, I dropped a tear in naturally shy. She that dock.” added: “I am just shy —Bangshowbiz when there are lots of people. I’m OK when we’re just one on one, or maybe four people. I’m a really, really shy per- son. Once I put the make- up on I’d go ‘OK, I can cope’.” SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Prince Andrew dating Monika Jakisic?

Winona Ryder once wore

he British royal is said to be dating the his arms around Monika and kissed her. a $10 dress to Oscars Croatian beauty - an ex-girlfriend of Another source said: “It was obvious they are TGeorge Clooney - after they were intro- a couple, they looked like two lovebirds.” he ‘Girl, Interrupted’ star is an avid bar- cess in her 20s, which she says made her 30s duced by friends, celebrating his 54th birth- Andrew, the Duke of York, was previously gain hunter and lover of vintage clothes, hard, as her young looks meant she didn’t Tand is also not afraid to recycle outfits always get picked for the roles she wanted. She day together last week a Cecconi’s restaurant married to Sarah Ferguson from 1986 to 1996, in London. A source told UsMagazine.com: and they have two daughters, Princess she has previously worn to events. She told added: “My early thirties were rough. I went “They sat next to each other at an intimate Beatrice, 25, and Princess Eugenie, 23, togeth- Red magazine: “Most of my wardrobe is vin- through stuff that I would have gone through, table by the front of the restaurant and were er. Although they are no longer married, tage and I’ve worn dresses to the Oscars that I and probably should have gone through much cuddling up to each other. Andrew was mak- Andrew and Sarah maintain a good relation- got for $10. “At Sean Penn’s last Haiti gala I younger, but I had spent my twenties working. ing Monika laugh and kissing her hand.” The ship and even holiday as a family with their wore this vintage dress that I’d worn to a film Even when I was the right age for older roles, eyewitness added during the dinner “Monika daughters. Monika, 33, first dated George in premiere in 2005. I know that’s kind of a no-no people thought of me as being younger. It was gave him a birthday card and the server 2004 and they have had an on-off relation- in the fashion world, but why wear something tough because I’d had so much success in my brought out a white birthday cake for ship since, and were said to be seeing each just once if you love it?” The 42-year-old early twenties.” In the same interview Winona dessert.” Days later they were spotted at The other again briefly last year after the ‘Gravity’ actress rose to fame in the mid 80s while she also said she one day hopes to work with ‘The Arts Club in Mayfair, where Andrew wrapped star’s relationship with Stacy Keibler ended. was still a teenager and had continuing suc- Wire’ writer David Simon. Lea Michele wanted kids with Cory Monteith Robin

he ‘Glee’ actress, who was left devas- Ttated when her Thicke boyfriend and co-star was found dead in his hotel is trying to win room in Vancouver, Canada, after a drug and Paula Patton back alcohol overdose in July 2013, claims they wanted he ‘Blurred Lines’ singer and his wife announced they have split after almost to start a family together. T nine years of marriage earlier this She told the new edition week, but as he landed in Washington DC of UK’s Glamour maga- this ahead of a show, he said he is hoping zine: “We talked about they will get back together. He told children and what we TMZ.com: “I’m just trying to get her would look like when we back.”When questioned further, he added: grew old.” The 27-year- “You know, [I’m] just trying to figure it out, old star dated Cory, 31, for man.” Robin - who has a three-year-old son, two years after meeting Julian, with Paula - cancelled two concerts on set, and she finally ahead of announcing the couple’s split, but feels “a bit more back posted a message thanking his fans for their together” after losing the support and saying he’s looking forward to actor, who she thinks resuming his tour on his website. He wrote: would like to see her to “I want to thank everyone for the well wishes fall in love again. She said: these last few days. My fans mean every- “It’s so important to make thing to me. I’m looking forward to getting sure I’m 100 percent OK back on out on the road and performing in before I get into a rela- Washington, DC this Thursday, and the rest tionship. “People have to of the tour. Looking forward to seeing every- understand that I can’t be one out there!” Meanwhile it has emerged alone forever. Cory Paula had a huge argument with the wouldn’t want that.” The ‘Blurred Lines’ singer following his appear- ‘Cannonball’ hitmaker will ance with Miley Cyrus at the MTV Video release her debut album, ‘Louder’ on March 17, and one of the tracks, ‘If Music Awards (VMAs) last year, which fea- tured the 21-year-old star Twerking against You Say So’, represents the last words Cory ever said to her. The heart- him. Paula is said to have found the incident wrenching ballad, which Lea co-wrote with Australian singer-song- insulting, particularly as it took place in front writer Sia Furler, sees her sing about the week after Cory’s tragic death. of a huge national TV audience. She is also Lyrics include: ‘It’s just a week ago, you said I love you girl. I said I love said to be furious with Robin’s insistence on you more. And a breath, a pause, you said, if you say so. continuing to party at clubs and frequently being pictured with various women. SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Former slave trade town seeks to become African art hub ntil last year, the few tourists who visit- Hundreds of thousands of Africans were ed the small west African town of believed to have been condemned to slavery UOuidah were likely headed to the from the beach below the archway. The Villa Gateway of No Return, a massive monument Ajavon in a sense defies that history, having to the area’s bleak history as a slave trading been built by the descendants of slaves who hub. But the town may soon become known returned from the Brazilian city of Bahia in a for an attraction of an entirely different sort: style influenced by both Brazilian and African the first sub-Saharan Africa museum dedicat- architecture, said Zinsou. ed exclusively to contemporary African art. The villa falls along a quiet dirt road lined The Zinsou Museum, installed in an ornate with run-down bungalows and is just a few 100-year-old villa, has attracted 13,000 visi- hundred meters from the Temple of Pythons, tors since its launch in November-an impres- a major centre of voodoo worship which sive tally for an out-of-the-way town in the retains powerful influence in Benin. While the sparsely visited nation of Benin. villa needed to be renovated to host a muse- The reputation-and monetary value-of um, Zinsou said the priority was to preserve contemporary African art has steadily risen in its original structure. recent years. Curators and collectors from Air conditioning in main hall was therefore North America and Europe frequently fly in to forbidden so as to not disfigure the exterior, artistic hubs like Lagos, Nigeria seeking new so those who wants to see the museum’s col- talent and new work by established names. lection must be prepared to sweat. Air circu- But for Marie-Celine Zinsou, who spearhead- lates through sunlight corridors where the ed the creation of the museum, better notori- works of leading African artists are on display, ety for African artists abroad was not enough. including: Ethiopia’s Mickael Bethe-Selassie, While on a trip to Benin with a French Frederic Bruly-Bouabre of Ivory Coast and based children’s charity in 2005 she wanted Cheri Samba of the Democratic Republic of to take a group of youths to an art museum. “I Congo. found that there wasn’t any structure to show Like in Cotonou, the entrance in Ouidah is (the children) work from their own continent,” free and the visitors are typically very young. she told AFP. Zinsou, the grandniece of one of Eight-year-old Achmine Atindehou said she Benin’s first presidents, secured an invest- was on her second visit to the Zinsou ment from her father Lionel, a businessmen Museum and had already grown very confi- with duel French and Benin nationality who dent in her arguably peculiar tastes. “I like the previously worked for France’s Foreign drawing ‘Living Memory’ (by the British-South Minister Laurent Fabius. African artist Bruce Clarke) because it is nice. The Zinsou foundation opened in 2005 at It is about death,” she said. a building in Benin’s largest city of Cotonou, Museum director Claude Aktome said where access was free to view both African often children come with their school classes and foreign art. The foundation attracted four and then persuade their parents to bring million visitors in eight years, mostly students them back. Romuald Hazoume has exhibited under the age of 15. As it became more estab- his paintings, sculptures and photographs in lished, the Zinsou Foundation began acquir- London and New York, but became emotion- ing a diverse collection of contemporary al when recalling his first showing in Benin, African art, with the goal of opening a perma- the country of his birth. “It was the first time nent museum. that I saw young people from Benin coming to admire my work,” he told AFP. “I cried that The perfect location day. I was so moved.” — AFP The Villa Ajavon, an expansive cream-col- ored home built in 1922 by a Togolese trader, drew Zinsou to Ouidah, a town of 60,000 peo- ple some 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Cotonou. “When we found out this sublime building was available, we jumped at the chance,” said Zinsou. “Its style is very symbol- A combo picture taken in Sofia, on February 23, 2014 (top) on August 21, 2013 (second from ic, very specific to this region,” she said. The top), on June 17, 2011 (center) and March 15, 2012 shows the figures of Soviet soldiers at the slave trade monument in Ouidah is a massive base of the Soviet Army monument, painted by an unknown artist and the same monument archway with two long lines of naked, after it was cleaned. — AFP chained men in bas-relief along the top, to suggest the group is being marched into the Atlantic Ocean. Bulgaria artists deface Soviet monument

monument to the Soviet Army in Bulgaria This is not the first time the Soviet monu- received a pro-Ukrainian makeover as ment has been defaced. In 2011, unknown Aanonymous artists showed their support artists turned the soldiers into US pop culture for the anti-government protests in Kiev. A large icons, including Superman, Captain America Ukrainian flag was planted on the monument and fast-food mascot Ronald McDonald. It was overnight in the centre of Bulgaria’s capital also painted pink last year in an anonymous Sofia, along with slogans including “Glory to commemoration of the Warsaw Pact invasion Ukraine!” The statue of a Soviet soldier from the of Czechoslovakia in 1968. Their creations Second World War was turned blue and yellow- have never lasted long thanks to complaints Ukraine’s national colors-and the phrase from the Russian embassy in Sofia and rapid “Caputin” written on its pedestal, an apparent clean-up work by pro-Russian groups. The Red pun on the name of Russian President Vladimir Army monument has been a constant bone of Putin. Like Ukraine, Bulgaria is a former Soviet contention between Russophiles and anti- state and has faced its own spate of anti-gov- communists in Bulgaria, who want it demol- ernment protests in the past year. Russia’s influ- ished. — AFP ence is far less strong in Bulgaria, which joined the European Union in 2007, although protest- ers complain of continued interference by Benin artist Romuald Hazoume poses for a photograph at home in Cotonou, Benin. — AFP Russian interests. SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Hollywood primed for (possibly soggy) Oscars night

ollywood is ready for its close-up tomorrow as stars gather Those with the least first-place votes are dropped, and their for the most fiercely contested Oscars show in decades, but votes given to the next highest-ranked nominees. This continues Horganizers hope the weather doesn’t rain on their glam- until one movie has 50 percent plus one vote. It has been a long orous red carpet parade. Forecasters predict Los Angeles could awards season-extended by the Sochi Winter Olympics, which have its biggest storm for two years potentially through the week- bumped the Oscars from February into March. And it has also end, when the movie industry’s finest come together for the cli- been among the most grueling, partly due to the bumper crop of max of the annual awards season. Three movies-harrowing histori- films vying for glory. cal drama “12 Years a Slave,” 3D space thriller “Gravity” and 1970s Topping nominations are “American Hustle” and Mexican crime caper “American Hustle”-are leading a packed field for the director Alfonso Cuaron’s “Gravity,” with 10 nods apiece, followed top prizes. by “12 Years a Slave,” a true story of a black man sold into slavery, On the acting front, Cate Blanchett is the hot favorite for her with nine. Cuaron is the frontrunner for the best director prize, and turn in Woody Allen’s “Blue Jasmine,” while Matthew his star Sandra Bullock earned high praise for her work in the spec- McConaughey is widely tipped to strike Oscars gold for his por- tacular space drama, prompting some to suggest she could cause trayal of homophobic AIDS activist Ron Woodroof in “Dallas an upset in the best actress race. But Australia’s Blanchett remains Buyers Club.” Jared Leto’s role as Woodroof’s unlikely transgender the firm favorite in that category, despite a strong field also con- business partner has put him ahead of the field for best support- taining Meryl Streep (“August: Osage County”), Judi Dench ing actor, and Lupita Nyong’o could take home a statuette for her (“Philomena”) and Amy Adams (“American Hustle”). big-screen debut in “12 Years a Slave.” Star-studded night ‘Genuine suspense’ The star-studded Oscars broadcast will feature performances But all bets are off for the big prize of the night, the best picture by Irish rockers U2, playing their nominated song from “Mandela: Oscar, which will be handed out at the end of the 86th Academy Long Walk To Freedom,” and a first Oscars turn by veteran Bette Awards ceremony hosted by US talk show host Ellen DeGeneres. Midler. Tomorrow night’s show will be preceded by the usual fash- “There’s going to be genuine suspense this year when that final ion extravaganza on the red carpet, as Tinseltown’s finest parade envelope is opened,” awards consultant Tony Angellotti told the along Hollywood Boulevard and into the Dolby Theatre. Los Angeles Times. The 6,000 or so voting members of the Organizers hope rain doesn’t affect the parade; they hastily Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences cast their ballots rescheduled the carpet roll-out to avoid forecast rain earlier in the over 12 days starting on Valentine’s Day and ending on Tuesday. week, and said Thursday they were reviewing some camera posi- But the best picture race is so close that the winner could come tions, partly due to the weather. The storm clouds come as a relief down to only a few votes, under the Academy’s preferential voting to many locals, as California has been suffering its worst drought A worker walks before a giant Oscar statue outside the Dolby system. Under the rules, voters rank all nine nominated films. They for a century over the last few months, threatening farmers and Theater on Hollywood Boulevard February 27, 2014 in are: “American Hustle,” “Captain Phillips,” “Dallas Buyers Club,” cattle ranchers. But for organizers of Tinseltown’s biggest night, it Hollywood, California, during preparations for the upcoming “Gravity,” “Her,” “Nebraska,” “Philomena,” “12 Years A Slave” and is probably one headache they could do without. — AFP 86th Academy Awards to take place on March 2. — AFP Martin Scorsese’s “The Wolf of Wall Street.” And the winner is... memorable Oscars moments

rom winners sobbing uncontrollably to shocking political out- waging war in Iraq. But Moore was only following the tradition of Awards for the propagation of their own personal propaganda. “I bursts, bizarre snubs and streakers, the Oscars have seen it all- turning the Oscars podium into a bully pulpit. Arguably, the most would like to suggest to Miss Redgrave that her winning an Academy Fand tomorrow’s Academy Awards ceremony could provide famous example came in 1973, when a woman calling herself Award is not a pivotal moment in history, does not require a procla- fresh drama. Organizers of Hollywood’s biggest night are white- Sacheen Littlefeather stood before the stunned audience to collect mation, and a simple ‘thank you’ would have sufficed.” Sometimes, knuckled as they brace for more unscripted moments that could Marlon Brando’s best actor Oscar for “The Godfather.” the choice of awards recipients can stoke controversy. The decision anger television viewers or throw the finely calibrated global telecast Littlefeather promptly refused to collect the award on Brando’s to grant director Elia Kazan a lifetime achievement award in 1999 off schedule. behalf to protest the movie industry’s treatment of native Americans. divided the glitterati, with dozens of stars refusing to rise or applaud, With a worldwide television audience in the hundreds of millions, Four years later, Vanessa Redgrave drew gasps and boos from the in protest at the filmmaker’s decision to cooperate with the authori- the temptation to use the event as a platform for political statements Oscars faithful when she thanked the Academy for honoring her in ties during the 1950s communist witch-hunts. —AFP has proved irresistible for past winners. Boos rang out around the “Julia” despite “the threats of a small bunch of Zionist hoodlums.” Kodak Theater in 2003 when maverick filmmaker Michael Moore Oscars presenter Paddy Chayefsky chastised her to much launched a vitriolic attack on then-US president George W Bush for applause: “I am sick and tired of people exploiting the Academy

Rumer Willis arrives at the Hollywood Domino & Bovet 1822’s Actress Vanessa Hudgens arrives. Amy Adams arrives. 7th Annual Pre-Oscar Hollywood Domino Gala & Tournament at Sunset Tower Hotel on February 27, 2014 in West Hollywood, California. — AFP photos SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Sunflowers are displayed. Assorted flowers are showcased at the annual Philadelphia Reeanne Frantz with Flowers by David places roses in prepa- Flower Show. ration for the annual Philadelphia Flower Show at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, Thursday, Feb 27, 2014, in Philadelphia. — AP photos Philly Flower Show brings art canvases to life inter-weary gardeners and painters alike Previous themes for the 10-acre show have may find inspiration in the colorful been places: England, Hawaii, Paris. But this year’s Wpalette of the Philadelphia Flower Show, museum-related theme is more abstract, in some which uses plants and petals to pay homage to cases literally. Schaffer Designs of Philadelphia work by artists like Matisse, Calder and Kandinsky. partnered with the Guggenheim Museum in New The main exhibitors partnered with major US York to come up with “Kandinsky’s Canvas,” a flo- museums to produce “ARTiculture,” this year’s ral representation of three abstract paintings by floral extravaganza which opens today and runs Wassily Kandinsky: “Circles in a Circle,” “Little through March 9. Accents” and “Dominant Curve.” A perennial harbinger of spring, the flower The “circles,” for instance, have been trans- show will be perhaps more fervently welcomed formed into colorful balls of carnations and other this season after the toll of an unusually cold and plant material. They look randomly placed until snowy winter along the Eastern Seaboard. “Living viewers stand on a premarked spot and see them in the Northeast ... everyone is so sick of snow a through an empty picture frame. “They will that coming in and seeing color, and seeing the actually see the painting come to life as it was flower show, it’s going to be a welcome respite originally meant to be,” said designer Bill this year,” said Drew Becher, president of the Schaffer.—AP show’s sponsor, the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society. Rita Stanton with Robertson’s Flowers is seen working. ‘Batman vs Superman’s’ Nyong’o admits Ben Affleck visits Washington

ne year after his film, “Argo,” took try to recreate so we just recreated white complexion was home the Best Picture Oscar, Ben hallways with colored stripes,” he added. OAffleck said he finds the real US At the committee hearing, Affleck said State Department “quite intimidating.” that while the dire situation in the ‘obstacle’ in youth “It’s just a pleasure to be back here in the Congo has improved from when he last State Department after - the real State testified to Congress 14 months ago, the est supporting actress Oscar nom- Department. I had to fake it for ‘Argo,’” US needs to do more to ensure that inee Lupita Nyong’o says when Affleck told reporters in Washington, DC progress continues. B Wednesday. “I get to see the real thing “I am working to do my part for a she was a young girl, she wished here, so it’s quite intimidating.” country and a people I believe in and care her dark-hued skin would become The actor-director was in the nation’s deeply about,” he said. “I am thankful that lighter. The “12 Years a Slave” star deliv- capital to testify at a Senate committee I can tell a more hopeful story one of ered an emotional speech while accept- hearing about peace efforts in the small but powerful victories. It reinforces ing her honor for best breakout per- Democratic Republic of the Congo. our belief that when the international formance at Essence magazine’s seventh Affleck founded the Eastern Congo community acts and the Congolese gov- annual Women in Hollywood luncheon Initiative and recently appeared in a ernment rises to the moment, these Thursday. She confessed that she tried fundraising video for the charity with problems are indeed solvable.” to bargain with God to see a change in friend and “Good Will Hunting” co-writer However, the Oscar-winner still Matt Damon. argued that now is not the time to step her skin tone. It wasn’t until she discov- Affleck appeared alongside Secretary out. “People view the fire as having gone ered supermodel Alek Wek that she of State John Kerry and Special Envoy for down now. We cannot start to walk away. began to believe in her own beauty. the Great Lakes and the Democratic This is the critical moment.” Affleck went Essence also paid tribute to Cheryl Republic, former senator Russ Feingold, on to say: “I am also here with an urgent Boone Isaacs, the first black president of at the State Department to thank Kerry message. Our work is not done. We can- the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and for making the Congo region - which also not risk diminished us leadership at a Sciences. Also honored were Ava includes the Republic of the Congo - a time lasting stability and peace are within priority. Affleck was asked by a reporter reach. Accomplishments over the past DuVernay, the first black woman to win how the real State Department measured year were hard fought. They are fragile. best director at the Sundance Film Lupita Nyong’o arrives at the 71st annual Golden Globe up to what he depicted in “Argo.” They are reversible.” Senators praised Festival, and the champions of the Civil Awards at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, in Beverly Hills, “Well, this part’s much better,” Affleck Affleck’s commitment to the cause. “Your Calif. — AP Rights Act of 1964. — AP said about the ceremonial room in credibility is remarkable because of the which the men appeared for remarks. “In depth of your commitment,” said Sen. fact, this was - this area was too fancy to John McCain, R-Ariz. — Reuters SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Members of the all-female group ‘The Camel Toe Lady Steppers’ march. Krewe members throw beads from floats during the Krewe of Muses Mardi Gras parade in New Orleans, Thursday, Feb 27, 2014. — AP photos Muses parade kicks off big Carnival weekend arade of women with a signature float in the shape of a giant and in other sections of the parade. Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club’s annual Mardi Gras ball. Mint high heel had a different kind of glow this year. Among “It’s exciting, to have these beautiful ladies walking with us,” said Condition and The Rebirth Brass Band All Star Reunion, featuring PThursday night’s Krewe of Muses floats and marching bands Lloyd Hickman, a New Orleans flambeaux carrier. “It’s Mardi Gras. It’s Irvin Mayfield and Trombone Shorty, also will perform. Saturday was the group of women carrying tall, T-shaped torches known in all good. Everybody gets to kind of do their own thing.” The torches night, country music superstar Carrie Underwood is scheduled to New Orleans as flambeaux. Calling themselves “Glambeaux,” the are heavy and a bit awkward, so being a Glambeaux required as perform at the Superdome, where the Krewe of Endymion holds its women shook and shimmied their way down city streets, paving the much gut as glam, said Dani Johnson, the group’s founder and cap- ball after its parade. way for a new take on a Carnival tradition more than a century old. tain. British actor Hugh Laurie, who starred for eight years in Fox’s Historically, flambeaux carriers hoisted torches to illuminate Johnson said members had weekly boot camp-style workouts to hospital mystery drama “House,” will serve as the Krewe of Bacchus’ parades in the decades before floats carried their own electrical build up strength to dance with the 5-foot-tall torches. They come celebrity monarch when that parade rolls Sunday evening, and lighting sources. In the early days, carriers were often slaves. Though with a row of four burners across the top, backed with a reflective actor-director Quentin Tarantino will reign as the Krewe of Orpheus’ started out of necessity, many parade clubs continued to feature flash plate and propane tanks the women wear strapped to their celebrity monarch Monday night. Also riding in Orpheus are actors flambeaux carriers for aesthetic reasons - and as a nod to Carnival backs. “I told them, you don’t get to punk out halfway through the John Schneider and James Roday. Schneider is known for his role on tradition. The 14-year-old Muses parade, one of the city’s youngest, parade,” Johnson said. “This is a commitment, and we’re going to be “Dukes of Hazzard” and stars in OWN Network’s “The Haves and The has become an unofficial kickoff to the big Carnival weekend lead- ready for it.” Have Nots.” Roday is star of USA Networks’ “Psych.” ing up to Fat Tuesday. It’s followed by days of star-studded parades, This year the Orpheus parade will include a tribute float to rock including Endymion, Bacchus and Orpheus, which will lure hun- ‘Ready to wear you out’ ‘n’ roll Hall of Fame performer Fats Domino. Although Domino, 85, dreds of thousands of revelers to the city and pack downtown The Glambeaux fit right in with this year’s parade theme, “Ready won’t be riding, he has been named honorary grand marshal, and hotels. to Wear You Out.” Celebrating fashion, the krewe’s more than 1,000 his music will be played as family members throw coaster-size, gold- “We’re pretty much sold out for Saturday and Sunday and members wore teal satin gowns as they tossed makeup brushes, fin- record doubloons and other Fats Domino-themed trinkets from the there’s strong occupancy on Monday and Tuesday too,” said Kelly gernail buffers, ear buds, Muses dolls, rings that blink and beads that float. The 1970s rock band Cheap Trick is scheduled to perform at Schulz, spokeswoman for the New Orleans Convention and Visitors sparkle to hundreds of thousands of revelers waiting along the the Orpheuscapade gala held after the parade. Cheap Trick’s biggest Bureau. The Glambeaux were a new addition to Muses this year. roughly five-mile parade route. “It’s one of my favorite parades,” said hits include “Surrender,” “I Want You to Want Me” and “The Flame.” While they are not the first to break barriers in carrying flambeaux, Paula Scheidt, a New Orleans resident wearing a bright purple wig, The Zulu parade is the first to roll on Mardi Gras, followed by Rex they are the first all-female troupe of choreographed dancers to glittery hot pink shirt and a gold hair bow, belt and boots. She yelled and two other parades. — AP carry the torches. for throws, hoping to land a coveted shoe. “I love all the beautiful “I thought they were a perfect fit for Muses,” said Staci ladies. They’ve got great throws, and the floats are comedic and Rosenberg, the parade’s founder and captain. “It’s all about empow- exciting.” ering women but also respecting tradition and heritage, and we do.” A favorite was the float of sirens luring sailors to their deaths with Although Muses is a parade of all female riders, men are allowed their beauty and song. The float was followed by a group of zombie- to participate on the ground, so traditional flambeaux carriers - like marchers dressed as sailors. The revelry continues Friday night some second- and third-generation - marched with the Glambeaux with Grammy Award-winner Patti LaBelle scheduled to headline the Noah’s ark project to move forward Christian ministry’s long-stalled plans to will eventually see that this is not in their best build Noah’s Ark in the hills of Kentucky interest.” Ahave been revived. Creation Museum Ham’s Answers in Genesis ministry and the founder Ken Ham announced Thursday that a Creation Museum enjoyed an avalanche of news municipal bond offering has raised enough mon- media attention during the debate, which ey to begin construction on the Ark Encounter focused on science and the Bible’s explanations of project, estimated to cost about $73 million. the origins of the universe. Answers in Genesis Groundbreaking is planned for May and the ark is unveiled the proposal in 2010 for a $150 million expected to be finished by the summer of 2016. theme park that would include the ark. But private Ham said a high-profile evolution debate he donations to the project did not keep pace with had with “Science Guy” Bill Nye on Feb 4 helped the construction timeline, forcing its backers to boost support for the project. Nye said he was delay the ark’s construction and divide the park “heartbroken and sickened for the development into phases. The bonds were Commonwealth of Kentucky” after learning that offered last year by the city of Williamstown, site the project would move forward. He said the ark of the planned ark about 40 miles south of would eventually draw more attention to the Cincinnati.—AP beliefs of Ham’s ministry, which preaches that In this file photo, Ken Ham, founder of the nonprofit ministry Answers in Genesis, poses with one of the Bible’s creation story is a true account, and his favorite animatronic dinosaurs during a tour of the Creation Museum in Petersburg, Ky. — AP as a result, “voters and taxpayers in Kentucky SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Models present creations for Lanvin during the 2014/2015 Autumn/Winter ready-to-wear collection fashion show, on February 27, 2014 in Paris. Rihanna eyes Paris fashion industry

he may sing “Please Don’t Stop The produce a subtler collection than usual. The be too bothered, since at 70, she’s seen it all Music,” but the music at the Balmain brashness was still there of course in a citrus before. Sshow had well and truly stopped when yellow fleece sweater or in the waists which seven-time Grammy Award-winner Rihanna were cinched to within an inch of life. But Lanvin uses fur like cotton sneaked in the back door, after everyone the fall-winter collection saw some of the To the set of an age-old movie studio had left. That is, apart from a handful of peo- best looks seen so far this season, like a with flood lighting Alber Elbaz produced yet ple. Here are the highlights of Thursday’s fall- petrol blue knotted rope sheath with a regal- another symphony of excitement, nostalgia winter ready-to-wear shows. feel twinned with beige cuffs that resembled and innovation for Lanvin. The show in the African bracelets. L’afrique, c’est chic! Left bank Ecole des Beaux-Arts was varied - Rihanna’s surprise visit at Balmain Elbaz famously designs to give women as The singer, who had plum lips and wore Rihanna upstages Catherine Deneuve much choice as possible. The first aria: feath- a revealingly plunging terre verte belted Rihanna caused a media scrum as she ered riding hats alongside black, brown and Balmain jacket, arrived at Paris’ Hotel de Ville entered the Lanvin show in a beige trilby white asymmetrical tweed coats had a swag- with heavy security, and was greeted by hat. With the sort of fame the pop star pos- ger of the 18th century, with horizontal lines friend and designer Olivier Rousteign, who sesses, it’s inevitable that even the most and fringing that was so loose it looked hugged her and gushed: “She’s the hottest iconic of vintage stars will be upstaged. It feathered. The conclusion was 1930s satin girl in the world.” The well-dressed was the case with Catherine Deneuve, a dress nostalgia. But the best segment was Barbadian superstar has her eyes set on the main fixture at Paris Fashion Week, who the fur climax. Elbaz used fur as if it were to fashion industry - and not just as the face of looked nonplussed in her front row seat as be found on trees: in skirts, jackets, dresses - Balmain. She caused a stir earlier this month people busied around the singer. One and even a black fur rucksack that had fash- when she said wants to launch her own fash- thing’s certain: the “Belle de Jour” star won’t ion insiders gasping. Then he had button ion label. And when asked Thursday if she down fur bands and lapels - and one model was here to get inspiration for her own capped it all by sporting a gray fur bust. brand, she hinted she’s attending Paris Fashion Week to get ideas. “I love Balmain Nina Ricci and can be inspired by (Rousteign’s) clothes. The Nina Ricci show progressed from I’m inspired by everything here (in Paris),” covered up chic to complete see-through in she told the Associated Press, her only com- a feminine show that channeled designer ments before being whisked away. Rihanna Peter Copping’s fascination with the vintage is no stranger to the industry: she’s created and romantic. And, of course, the signature collections for two fashion labels before for flowers. Nostalgic colors like silvery purple, Armani in 2011, and for high-street brand deep plum and burgundy mixed up with River Island. She may hope to tread a path sequined dresses with hints of the 1930s. similar to rapper Kanye West, who now has Elsewhere, there were some dropped waists his own fashion brand, shows in Paris and is and one great black and white flying jacket a regular attendee at runway shows. Could with huge 1970s lapels. The use of fur was this be a reconnaissance mission? notable, appearing inventively as luxuriant Zebra stripes, leopard print, beaded jack- streaks or insets on capes and jackets. The ets mixed with khaki colors, flak pockets and final series of high, sheer gowns had a feel of safari pants. Yes, this was Africa - at least, a sensual prude that might have been bor- Balmain’s opulent and decadent version of rowed from Valentino. — AP it. And the exotic musing helped Rousteign Rihanna arrives at the Paris Fashion Week in Paris. — AP/AFP photos

Models present creations for Balmain.

Models present creations for Nina Ricci. TECHNOLOGY SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Mobile world prods Gadget Watch: Fastlane in Nokia tablets to do more X shows promise Sony unveils ‘world’s slimmest waterproof tablet’ By Anick Jesdanun BARCELONA: BARCELONA: Bigger than a telephone technology research house Informa. Lawrence Lundy, analyst at Frost & By design, Nokia’s new Android smart- yet smaller than a personal computer, “During the last iPad launch, Apple Sullivan technology consultants. “We phones will underwhelm users of high-end phones. tablets were supposed to usher in a showed a promotional video with thou- see that a lot of the tablets are being The Nokia X line was created with emerging markets in mind, so the company emphasized keeping prices low, new world of mobility; yet they have sands of different ways that people can used for video consumption because it meaning the user interface is relatively simple. The hardly budged off the couch. Four years use their iPad including mountain bik- is mainly at home and it does not have home screen resembles the one on Nokia’s Windows- after their launch, tablets remain over- ers, surfers, doctors,” Jest said. a 3G connection,” Lundy said. For based Lumia phones, even though it’s Android under- whelmingly stuck at home and connect- “I think that is how they would like mobile operators, that means signifi- neath. But Nokia Corp added a Fastlane feature, a ed by Wi-Fi, frustrating mobile opera- to show the iPad is being used, but it is cantly less revenue than they had screen with quick access to your most-used apps. You tors who are deprived of a potential mainly in the home, streaming media, hoped for. get to it by swiping from the left or right edge of the new source of revenue. streaming movies.” According to “It primarily comes down to costs, I home screen or tapping the back button at the bot- At the February 24-27 Mobile World Informa, only 20 percent of tablets are think,” said Nick Dillon, analyst at the tom. Congress in Barcelona, Spain, manufac- connected to the mobile network, the research group, Ovum. “For the cus- The basic Nokia X phone costs 89 euros ($122) and tomers, there are two costs involved: has a 4-inch screen, measured diagonally, and a 3 the cellular-enabled tablets are more megapixel camera. A X+ version with an SD storage expensive, there is a kind of cost premi- card costs 99 euros, while an XL with a 5-inch screen um in terms of acquisition, and then on and 5 megapixel camera goes for 109 euros. In the top of that, there is obviously the cost brief time I’ve had with the Nokia X at this week’s of data.” Mobile World Congress wireless show in Barcelona, Analysts said the operators have not Spain, I have found the Fastlane feature to be a good been sufficiently creative, often propos- start. It’s something I would like to see on more ing plans that are as costly as those for phones, including Nokia’s Windows devices. smartphones. “I am not sure if opera- I hate to spend time customizing gadgets, getting tors see it as a challenge or a blessing,” the icons for the most-used apps on the main home said Carolina Milanesi, analyst at con- screen. The nice thing about Fastlane is that you don’t sumer research group Kantar have to spend any time on that. Your favorite apps are Worldpanel. “It seems clear that tablets just one swipe away - sort of. The top of Fastlane are mostly used as entertainment shows you what’s coming up, whether that’s alarms devices which would suggest a poten- about to ring or future events in your calendar. Below tial bandwidth drain on video con- that are your recently used apps. The ones you just sumption,” she said. In other words, if used will be at the top, so you don’t have to scroll all the tablets were connected, 3G net- down. works would be quickly overloaded. For some apps, you get information that normally Tablets may finally break free of comes with notifications, such as previews of text mes- the home, however, as sales grow of sages or alerts that three people have tried to reach BARCELONA: Visitors look at Xperia tablet Z2 by Sony. —AFP mini tablets, which are easier to carry you on WeChat, a Chinese social network. You see around. Manufacturers launched a small versions of recent photos and can tap for the turers such as Japan’s Sony, China’s rest relying on Wi-Fi. The classic profile string of such devices in Barcelona. larger version in the photo gallery app. You see calls you missed, songs you heard and websites you visited. Lenovo and Taiwan’s Asus again of a tablet user, is actually a person Chinese manufacturer Huawei It could get overwhelming, so you can block certain unveiled a range of new tablet models, lounging on the sofa watching videos showed off its MediaPad X1 and apps and certain notifications from appearing in now considered essential to their or playing electronic games. In 2012, a Finnish maker Nokia revealed its XL, Fastlane. In the settings, you can also add a shortcut to mobile device offerings. Sony Mobile poll by Google showed that only 21 for example, both of which will allow one social network, such as Facebook or Twitter. That’s revealed its Xperia Z2, proudly describ- percent of users took their tablets out users to make telephone calls, too. where Fastlane can improve - understanding better ing it as “the world’s slimmest and light- of the home. The latest, super-fast, fourth-genera- which apps I use most over a period of days or months est waterproof tablet”. tion network will also help, analysts and creating a section at the top for those. It comes down to costs “It is perfect if you want to take it into said. “More 4G connectable tablets This week, for example, I was too busy to check the bathtub, to the beach, to the pool,” Technology research group Gartner will probably mean less use of Wi-Fi,” Facebook, but that doesn’t mean I don’t use it regular- Sony Mobile official Almos Szabo said at Inc. found in a September 2013 survey said Jean-Laurent Pitou, head of com- ly. But in Fastlane, Facebook would drop toward the the Japanese manufacturer’s stand in that people use their tablets mostly munications, media and technology bottom in a matter of days, unless I happen to choose the world’s largest mobile industry fair. between 7pm and 10pm, probably at research group Accenture. But this it as my one shortcut. Why not make sure the most- The ease with which tablets can be used while watching television. Tablets are would also require network costs to used apps are stored as favorites at the top of the outside is always stressed by manufac- not typically used as a mobile accessory adapt, with cheaper plans for con- screen? Nokia says it’s considering that.—AP turers, said Julian Jest, analyst at the carried around by owners, said sumers, Pitou cautioned. —AFP

Parkour goes from YouTube fad to fitness craze

BROOKLINE: The spirited sport known as parkour that treats cles like park benches, trees, guardrails, and buildings into beams and lift, leap or weave their way through whatever the world as one big obstacle course is gaining traction out- tools they can use to nimbly propel themselves forward. else was in their path. Both newcomers and advanced learn- side of the urban enthusiasts whose YouTube-worthy acro- Parkour’s developers were influenced by military training ers trained together, but those with more experience were batics spread its popularity. Once the domain of the outdoor principles. Since then, some of the sport’s most spectacular given more challenging training. anti-athlete, it’s becoming the go-to sport for people who just moves have been featured in movie sequences, video games Instructor Blake Evitt said many of the new students he want a good workout. and advertisements. One of the most recognizable is a chase sees view parkour as a functional way to get fit. But parkour Jessamyn Hodge, a 32-year-old software and information scene in the 2006 James Bond movie “Casino Royale.” offers more than flashy stunts - it’s a way for people to test engineer from South Boston, recently prepped for her first Beginners who want to hit the ground running - but maybe their physical and mental limits. “It’s almost a way of life,” said parkour class at a high school gym in suburban Brookline. She not by running up a construction crane, James Bond-style - Evitt, a director of the US branch of Parkour Generations. Julio was hoping to learn the kind of wall-scaling, fence-vaulting, have the option of classes like those offered by London-Based Sepulveda, a climate-change researcher, who takes classes in obstacle-conquering moves she’d already seen in online Parkour Generations, a business with affiliates in California, the Boston suburb of Somerville, Mass, said parkour is very videos shared by her rock-climbing friends. Pennsylvania, Texas and Wisconsin, and that offers instruction accessible because learners don’t need access to fancy, “It’s like dancing at high speed,” she said. “It reminds me of in several countries including Thailand, Singapore and Brazil. expensive gear to get into it. They can simply walk to a nearby being a kid again, like monkeying around on anything and Classes include a warm-up, technical drills to learn the park and use the existing environment to practice. “And it’s everything, clambering about, generally having fun while get- basics of safety and games to teach and reinforce parkour really all about your flow . the flow of your movements and . ting around.” Parkour, developed in France in the 1980s, bor- techniques. At the Brookline class, instructors set up metal your mind, which is really cool,” Sepulveda said after catching rows elements from martial arts, gymnastics, rock climbing bars they called scaffolding and vault boxes in the gym, his breath. “So it’s a nice connection between your mind and and other athletic fields to enable participants to turn obsta- teaching students how to walk on or hurtle over balance your body.” —AP TECHNOLOGY SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 UK, US spies stored millions of Yahoo web-camera images Yahoo outraged at surveillance

WASHINGTON: US senators said British US Senators Ron Wyden, Mark Udall and are committed to preserving our users’ and US spy agencies showed a “breath- Martin Heinrich said in a joint statement. trust and security and continue our taking lack of respect” for privacy after “If this report is accurate, it would efforts to expand encryption across all reports they had intercepted and stored show a breathtaking lack of respect for of our services.” images from webcams used by millions the privacy and civil liberties of law- Leaked GCHQ documents from 2008 of Yahoo users. Files from Britain’s com- abiding citizens.” They promised to to 2010 explicitly refer to the surveil- BARCELONA: A visitor checks his phone at the munications spy agency GCHQ leaked investigate the activity as part of an lance program, although the Guardian by former US National Security Agency ongoing comprehensive review of sur- said later information suggested it was Mobile World Congress. —AP contractor Edward Snowden revealed veillance programs, with close scrutiny still active in 2012. The data was used for how the Optic Nerve program collected to any role US agencies may have experiments in automated facial recog- Push for Web still images of webcam chats regardless played. “It is becoming clearer and clear- nition, as well as to monitor existing of whether individual users were sus- er that more needs to be done to ensure GCHQ targets and discover new ones, pects or not, the Guardian newspaper that ‘foreign’ intelligence collection the British paper said. addresses in era reported. does not intrude unnecessarily on the The program reportedly saved one In one six-month period in 2008, the rights of law-abiding people or need- image every five minutes from a webcam of search, apps British spy agency collected webcam lessly undermine the competitiveness of user’s feed, partly to comply with human imagery from more than 1.8 million America’s leading industries,” the sena- rights legislation and partly to cut down BARCELONA: In the early days, you typed in a domain name Yahoo user accounts around the world, tors added. the sheer amount of data being collect- address to reach a website. Then came the ability to reach the Guardian said. The data collected, Yahoo, which was apparently chosen ed. GCHQ analysts were able to search websites directly through a search engine. The mobile era which was available to NSA analysts because its webcam system was known the metadata, such as location and brought us phone apps for accessing services without either. through routine information sharing, to be used by GCHQ targets, expressed length of webcam chat, and they could Yet the organization in charge of Internet addresses is push- contained a significant amount of sexual outrage at the reported surveillance. view the actual images where the user- ing a major expansion in domain name suffixes. At least 160 content. “We are extremely troubled by “We were not aware of nor would we name was similar to a surveillance target. suffixes have been added since October to join the ranks of today’s press report that a very large condone this reported activity,” a In a statement to the Guardian, GCHQ “.com,” “.org” and scores of country-specific ones such as number of individuals-including law- spokeswoman for the US technology said all of its work was “carried out in “.uk” for the United Kingdom. Hundreds of other proposals abiding Americans-may have had pri- firm told AFP in an email statement. accordance with a strict legal and policy are being reviewed. Why bother in this mobile-heavy era? vate videos of themselves and their fam- “This report, if true, represents a whole framework which ensures that our activi- “Finding what you need on the Web will take many paths,” ilies intercepted and stored without any new level of violation of our users’ priva- ties are authorized, necessary and pro- said Fadi Chehade, head of the Internet Corporation for suspicion of wrongdoing,” Democratic cy that is completely unacceptable. “We portionate”. —AFP Assigned Names and Numbers, or ICANN. Even if you’re using search, domain names might make search engines smarter, Chehade said in an interview at the Facebook, Twitter rivalry heats up Mobile World Congress wireless show, which ended Thursday in Barcelona, Spain. For instance, a search engine NEW YORK: Facebook has been on a year- which has already established itself as a popu- tisers synchronize advertisements on televi- might be able to classify something as a dating site because long push to persuade television networks it is lar platform for talking about TV as shows air. sion and Twitter to broaden the message. Lori it carries the suffix “.dating.” Before, it would have to infer vital to the success of their programming. CEO The Palo Alto-based company has partnered Schwartz, a former executive at McCann who from text on the site, and search results might inadvertently Mark Zuckerberg wants networks to treat with Nielsen to measure how much conversa- consults with myriad TV networks, pointed to include general discussions on dating. Facebook as a cornerstone of their marketing tion occurs around shows as they air, and Twitter’s Amplify deal as one of many exam- Likewise, a search engine might favor restaurants ending campaigns, spending money earmarked for most TV networks encourage their talent to ples where Facebook is late to the game. in “.berlin” when you’re looking for food options there, radio or magazine advertisements on it tweet during shows. “They have been really strategic, earlier rather than bloggers discussing what they ate during visits instead. And his social network has made For its part, Facebook has partnered with than Facebook has, in saying, ‘We know we’re to Berlin. He said domain names will also be useful for mar- headway by showing networks compelling SecondSync, an analytics company, to docu- part of your social media strategy and we can keting and branding: An Internet address is easier to include data to prove it can increase viewership of a ment the extensive use of Facebook during also be part of your reporting revenue,’” on a business card or advertisement. new show. shows as they are originally aired. “The fact Schwartz told TheWrap. “Facebook is impor- Companies can give different services distinctive address- “We see TV networks embracing us in that people talk about TV on Facebook has tant, but Twitter has gotten so far ahead in es, such as “sales.samsung” and “repairs.samsung,” so that ways they didn’t 6 months ago,” David never been in doubt,” SecondSync found in a audience development, which is more impor- customers don’t have to hunt for that on the main website. Lawenda, Facebook’s head of U.S. advertising study. “However, it has often been assumed tant than during the show engagement.” Neighborhoods can form around suffixes such as “.berlin” sales, told TheWrap at Digital Entertainment that TV-related Facebook interactions happen Live engagement is central to Twitter’s TV and “.tokyo.” Restaurants, florists and transit systems would World last week. “They are already eager to outside the show airing and not in real-time. strategy, which emphasizes its public nature, use city suffixes rather than a generic “.com.” There are so place big investments around the fall season. Our analysis challenges this assumption.” but Facebook has an advantage in the user many sites already under “.com” that getting an easy-to- We’ve proven results.” Lawenda, who joined How much conversation takes place on data it gathers based on profiles and private remember name is difficult. With some of the new ones, con- Facebook after more than two decades work- Facebook relative to Twitter remains up for conversations. The two companies satisfy dif- gestion isn’t a problem. ing in television, has a favorite example: the debate. Facebook argues it has far more than ferent needs. There have been nearly 2,000 proposals for new domain “White Queen,” a Starz show that debuted last anywhere else, but that’s if you count by num- Though the social media rivals are still tar- names, though about 150 have been withdrawn for various year. Starz and Facebook collaborated on a ber of interactions - and every “like” on a par- geting many of the same potential advertis- reasons. More than 1,000 have been approved and are either marketing campaign, pushing trailers and ticular comment about TV would fit into that ers, it is not a zero sum game: More spending in the system already or are awaiting signed contracts images toward specific audiences Starz box. If you just look at comments, the num- on Facebook can help Twitter - and vice versa. between their backers and ICANN. More than 600 are being thought would be most likely to tune in - prin- bers are much closer, and as those close to Both are trying to convince networks that held up because of multiple bids for the same suffix. cipally women between the ages of 25 and 54. Twitter point out, metrics are comparable - social media is a more effective means of The ones in the system include “.dating,” “.berlin” and The ads, which reached 41 percent of US even though Twitter is a fraction of the size. reaching new viewers than print, billboards or, “.tokyo.” Samsung’s new suffix is in Korean, one of 18 addi- females between the ages of 25 and 54, “I’ve always thought there was an intense yes, television. They have more data on poten- tions to use non-English characters. Others include “.cab,” increased awareness by 25 points and amount of competition between Facebook tial viewers than almost anyone, and they can “.ceo,” “.dance,” “.futbol,” “.mango” and “.sexy.” Chehade prompted 9 percent more people to tune in, and Twitter, but in the early days the plat- target them effectively. said websites using these suffixes could start appearing in according to Starz. “It was a shock to a lot of forms weren’t as well defined and the compe- Starz, for instance, spent 57 percent more April. Jay Sullivan, chief operating officer of the group us,” network digital-marketing executive Erin tition was more nebulous,” Gartner analyst money marketing on social media in 2013 behind the Firefox Web browser and operating system for Dwyer told TheWrap. “We didn’t know Brian Blau told TheWrap. “Today the competi- than 2012. That expenditure is expected to phones, said the new suffixes might push even more people Facebook could deliver those kinds of num- tion is different. They are clearly staking out grow in 2014. TV networks are adjusting their to search. bers.” similar territories and going after the same ad dollars to better target potential viewers Right now, he said, people can often guess whether a site Those kinds of case studies have fueled type of advertisers.” across an increasingly fragmented media ends in “.com” (if it’s a business) or “.org” (if it’s a non-profit Facebook’s courtship of TV ad money, giving Twitter loves to trumpet how much con- landscape where social media is only growing organization). With lots more to choose from, he said, it will Lawenda hard data to prove networks can versation happens during live events since in popularity. “They have no choice,” be harder to guess and easier to use a search engine. Greg spend less for more efficient targeting of conversation during a show demonstrates an Gartner’s Blau said. “Advertisers are slowly Sullivan, marketing director for Microsoft’s Windows Phone potential viewers. Facebook also wants to per- engaged audience. But monetizing that audi- moving out of this mode where they are business, said people have indeed gravitated toward search suade the networks that viewers are on the ence is more important than volume of chat- throwing money against the wall and hope- and apps when using phones. But he said there will always social network while they watch their favorite ter, and Twitter is ahead of Facebook in target- fully it works out for them. They want to tar- be a need for domain names because some companies have shows, partnering with Fox recently to host ing networks. The two camps now share get users they know will be interested.” Or, as built businesses around the moniker. He said phones will live stats about voting on “American Idol.” advertising revenue generated through Schwartz put it, “the smart person right now adapt as their users adapt. —AP That brings it into direct conflict with Twitter, Twitter’s Amplify program, which helps adver- plays everywhere.” —Reuters TV listings SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

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News 17:15 A Farmer’s Life For Me 12:20 Through The Wormhole With 08:45 Dog With A Blog 09:05 Mako Mermaids 13:05 The Drama Queen 18:10 Tough Guy Or Chicken? Morgan Freeman 14:05 The Drama Queen 19:00 Live At The Apollo 13:10 Through The Wormhole With 09:30 Jessie 05:00 Coronation Street 03:30 Transformers-PG15 09:55 Austin & Ally 07:05 How To Find Love Online 15:00 Giuliana & Bill 19:45 Alan Carr: Chatty Man Morgan Freeman 16:00 Giuliana & Bill 06:00 Skyline-PG15 20:30 DCI Banks 14:00 Through The Wormhole With 10:15 A.N.T. Farm 08:00 Paul Ogrady: For The Love Of 07:45 Snow White And The 10:40 The Haunted Mansion Dogs 17:00 Eric And Jessie: Game On 21:20 Stewart Lee’s Comedy Vehicle Morgan Freeman 17:30 Eric And Jessie: Game On Huntsman-PG15 21:50 Pramface 14:50 Weird Connections 12:05 Prank Stars 08:25 Agatha Christie’s Poirot 10:00 Batman: The Dark Knight 12:15 That’s So Raven 10:15 Ant And Decs Saturday Night 18:00 E! News 22:20 The Vicar Of Dibley 15:20 The Gadget Show 19:00 The E! True Hollywood Story Returns Part Two-PG15 22:50 Last Man Standing 20:00 Married To Jonas 12:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & 23:40 Tough Guy Or Chicken? 20:30 Keeping Up With The Chrome-PG15 Kardashians 13:45 Snow White And The 21:30 Fashion Police Huntsman-PG15 22:30 E! News 16:00 Paycheck-PG15 23:30 Chelsea Lately 18:00 Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome-PG15 03:20 Extreme Makeover: Home 20:00 15 Minutes-PG15 Edition 22:00 The Marine-PG15 04:05 Bargain Hunt 04:50 Come Dine With Me: South Africa 05:40 Ty Pennington’s Homes For The Brave 04:00 Seinfeld 06:25 Gok’s Clothes Roadshow 04:30 The Tonight Show Starring 07:15 Fantasy Homes By The Sea Jimmy Fallon 08:00 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 05:30 Seinfeld 03:00 The Iron Lady-PG15 08:50 Phil Spencer: Secret Agent 06:00 Two And A Half Men 05:00 StreetDance 2-PG15 09:40 The Roux Legacy 06:30 Friends 07:00 Arbitrage-PG15 10:15 The Roux Legacy 07:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 09:00 The Words-PG15 10:50 Rick Stein’s Spain 08:00 Seinfeld 11:00 Hyde Park On Hudson-PG15 11:45 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen 08:30 Seinfeld 13:00 The Woman In The Fifth-PG15 Secrets 09:30 Wilfred 15:00 Arctic Blast-PG15 12:15 Raymond Blanc’s Kitchen 10:00 Hot In Cleveland 17:00 Resistance-PG15 Secrets 10:30 Friends 18:45 The Host-PG15 12:45 The Hairy Bikers USA 11:00 The Tonight Show Starring 21:00 360-18 13:10 Rachel Khoo’s Kitchen Jimmy Fallon 23:00 Lawless-18 Notebook: London 12:00 The War At Home 13:35 Come Dine With Me: South 12:30 Seinfeld Africa 13:00 Seinfeld 14:30 Antiques Roadshow 13:30 Friends 15:25 Antiques Roadshow 14:30 Wilfred 16:20 Antiques Roadshow 15:00 Hot In Cleveland 17:15 Antiques Roadshow 15:30 The Daily Show With Jon 03:00 Nobody Walks-PG15 18:10 Antiques Roadshow Stewart 05:00 Why Did I Get Married Too?- 19:05 Antiques Roadshow 16:00 The Colbert Report PG15 20:00 The Hairy Bikers: Mums Know 16:30 The War At Home 07:00 Virtual Lies-PG15 Best 17:00 Late Night With Seth Meyers 09:00 Last Dance-PG15 18:00 1600 Penn 11:00 Stardust-PG 18:30 1600 Penn 13:15 Mutum-PG15 19:00 Cougar Town 15:00 Ties That Bind-PG15 19:30 Two And A Half Men 17:00 Stardust-PG 20:00 The Tonight Show Starring 19:15 Young Adult-PG15 Jimmy Fallon 21:00 Bel Ami-18 21:00 The Daily Show With Jon 23:00 Switchback-PG15 03:00 Car vs Wild Stewart 03:50 Border Security 21:30 The Colbert Report 04:15 Auction Kings 22:00 Saturday Night Live 04:40 Dallas Car Sharks 23:00 Enlightened 05:05 How Do They Do It? 23:30 Late Night With Seth Meyers 05:30 How It’s Made 03:00 Gnomeo & Juliet-PG 06:00 Sons Of Guns 05:00 Bernie-PG15 07:00 The Big Brain Theory 07:00 Beastly-PG15 07:50 Dynamo: Magician Impossible 09:00 Hotel Transylvania-PG 08:40 Mythbusters 04:00 American Idol 10:45 Jack Reacher-PG15 09:30 Manhunt 05:00 Survivor: Brawn vs. Brain vs. 13:00 Madagascar 3: Europe’s Most 10:20 Survive That! Beauty Wanted-PG 11:10 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 07:00 Parenthood 15:00 Like Crazy-PG15 11:35 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 08:00 Switched At Birth 17:00 Hotel Transylvania-PG 12:00 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 09:00 Glee 19:00 Beautiful Creatures-PG15 12:25 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 10:00 American Idol 21:00 Django Unchained-18 12:50 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 11:00 Graceland 23:45 Resident Evil: Retribution-18 13:15 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 12:00 Parenthood 13:40 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 13:00 The Ellen DeGeneres Show 14:05 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 14:00 Switched At Birth 14:30 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 15:00 Warehouse 13 14:55 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 16:00 Parenthood 15:20 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 17:00 American Idol 03:00 The Adventures Of Scooter The 15:45 Bear Grylls: Extreme... 19:00 Bones Penguin 16:10 Bear Grylls: Extreme... THE MARINE ON OSN MOVIES HD ACTION 20:00 Almost Human 04:30 Cinderella TV listings SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

06:00 Everyone’s Hero 20:30 Inside The PGA Tour 07:45 Wheelers 21:00 Live PGA Tour 09:15 Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 11:00 Shrek The Third White House hosts 1st 12:45 Fly Away Home 03:00 Shipping Wars 14:30 Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven 03:30 Shipping Wars Seas 03:00 Futbol Mundial 04:00 American Pickers student film festival 16:00 Charlotte’s Web 03:30 PGA European Tour Weekly 05:00 Duck Dynasty 18:00 Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 04:00 WWE Bottom Line 05:30 Duck Dynasty 20:00 Dino Time 05:00 Live Bellator MMA 2014 06:00 Pawn Stars 22:00 Sinbad: Legend Of The Seven 07:00 Trans World Sport 06:30 Pawn Stars Seas 08:00 Futbol Mundial 07:00 Storage Wars wo days before attention shifts to dian Conan O’Brien will address the gath- 23:30 Charlotte’s Web 08:40 Live AFL Nab Challenge 07:30 Storage Wars the Academy Awards ceremony in ering by video. 12:00 Trans World Sport 08:00 Duck Dynasty T 13:00 PGA European Tour Weekly 08:30 Duck Dynasty Los Angeles, the White House is The young filmmakers range in age 13:30 Live PGA European Tour 09:00 Pawn Stars trying to create a little buzz for America’s from first-graders to 17-year-old high 17:30 Live Dubai World Cup Carnival 09:30 Pawn Stars 04:00 The Odd Life Of Timothy Green- 21:00 Bellator MMA 2014 10:00 Pawn Stars future filmmakers. At a film festival, school students and come from 12 states PG 23:00 Trans World Sport 10:30 Pawn Stars President Barack Obama will recognize and the District of Columbia. A group of 06:00 Three Investigators And The 11:00 Storage Wars the best of nearly 2,500 films - 16 to be first-grade friends from Silver Spring, Md, Secret Of Terror...-PG 11:30 Storage Wars 08:00 The Cold Light Of Day-PG15 12:00 Storage Wars exact - that were submitted by K-12 stu- collaborated on “Technology and Me,” in 10:00 The Legend Of Sarila-PG 12:30 Storage Wars dents after the White House put out the which they offer their take on the past, 11:45 Oz The Great And Powerful-PG 13:00 Pawn Stars 14:00 Interview With A Hitman-PG15 13:30 Pawn Stars call for short videos on the role technolo- present and future of classroom technol- 16:00 The Cold Light Of Day-PG15 03:30 ICC Cricket 360 14:00 Pawn Stars gy plays in their education. It’s one of the ogy. One boy declares chalkboards “old 18:00 You Will Meet A Tall Dark 14:30 Pawn Stars Stranger-PG15 04:00 Australia v England T20I president’s favorite subjects. school” while a girl explains that “now 05:00 Australia v England T20I 15:00 Shipping Wars 20:00 Small Apartments-18 15:30 Shipping Wars Obama recently set a goal of wiring there are computers and it’s more easi- 22:00 The Sweeney-18 06:00 Australia v England T20I 07:00 ICC Cricket 360 16:00 Storage Wars Texas virtually every classroom with high- er.” Another girl predicts a future class- 07:30 Asia Cup Highlights 16:30 Storage Wars Texas 08:30 Asia Cup Highlights 17:00 Storage Wars Texas speed Internet by sometime in 2018.Last room with robots. 09:30 Asia Cup Highlights 17:30 Storage Wars Texas month, he announced $750 million in 18:00 Counting Cars 06:00 Trans World Sport 10:45 Live Asia Cup commitments from US companies to 19:00 ICC Cricket 360 18:30 Counting Cars 07:00 Super Rugby 19:00 The Legend Of Shelby The 09:00 Total Rugby 19:30 ICC Under 19 World Cup 2014 help move the project along, including Highlights Swamp Man 09:35 Live Super Rugby 19:30 The Legend Of Shelby The $100 million in iPads, computers and oth- 11:40 Live Super Rugby 20:30 ICC Under 19 World Cup 2014 Highlights Swamp Man er tools from Apple, $100 million in cash 13:30 Total Rugby 20:00 Shipping Wars 14:00 Live Super Rugby 21:30 ICC Under 19 World Cup 2014 and in-kind contributions from Verizon, Highlights 20:30 Shipping Wars 16:00 Super Rugby 21:00 Duck Dynasty 22:30 Asia Cup Highlights and discounted Windows software from 18:00 Live Super Rugby 21:30 Duck Dynasty 23:30 ICC Cricket 360 20:00 Total Rugby 22:00 Storage Wars Texas Microsoft. The Federal Communications Commission also pledged $2 billion to connect 20 million students in 15,000 schools over the next two years. At the White House, Obama was announcing an additional $400 million in private-sector pledges for the ConnectEd initiative, bringing to more than $1 bil- lion the total value of cash and goods committed to the project. Adobe is donating $300 million worth of its soft- ware products to teachers and students. The Hungarian software company Prezi is providing $100 million worth of its prod- ucts. In the film, “Alex,” 11th-grader Mitch “In a country where we expect free Wi- Buangsuwon of California entered a Fi with our coffee, we should definitely video about his brother, Alex, who suffers demand it in our schools,” Obama said from dyslexia and dysgraphia, which last month at a Maryland school where affect his reading and writing skills. Alex students are assigned iPads for use in talks about feeling left behind because class and at home. He even borrowed a he didn’t read as well as the other kids. student’s tablet to make a short film of But after switching to a new school, his own. Obama says the average school where he was given a tablet for research has the same Internet speed as the aver- and writing, the seventh-grader says his age home but serves 200 times as many reading went from a third-grade level to people. He laments that just 30 percent a sixth-grade level in a year. “Not feeling of US students have true high-speed left behind feels really nice,” Alex says. Internet in their classrooms, compared “My school is a good example of how with 100 percent of South Korean stu- everybody can benefit from technology dents. because everybody learns differently.” Yesterday’s festival was dreamed up No thank-you speeches will be given. as a way to showcase the many ways stu- No gold-toned statuettes will be handed dents use technology and the president’s out. The budding filmmakers instead will proposal. The videos could be no longer head out knowing that they helped high- than 3 minutes. Each was viewed multi- light an Obama policy goal. “It’s a cele- ple times by an “academy” of judges that bration of the way they’re already using was made up of White House officials technology and the importance of the and others. The 16 films chosen as final- president’s initiative for increasing that ists - no winners will be declared - will be over time,” said Nate Lubin, acting direc- screened in the East Room in collabora- tor of the White House Office of Digital tion with the American Film Institute. Strategy. Beyond that, the finalists will They are separated into four categories: also be given an exclusive look at the first Young Visionaries, Future Innovators, episode of “Cosmos: A Spacetime World of Tomorrow and Building Bridges, Odyssey,” a new TV series by Fox and the and will be presented by actor Kal Penn, National Geographic Channel on the astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, Bill importance of science, technology, engi- Nye the Science Guy and AFI President neering and math that is set to premiere and CEO Bob Gazzale. Late-night come- on March 9. — AP ARCTIC BLAST ON OSN MOVIES DRAMA WHAT’S ON SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Announcements KKIC holds Islamic seminar

NCCAL hosts Iranian he third Islamic seminar organized gation of Islam and other charitable Society to the Deputy GM of Al-Muzaini by Kuwait Kerala Islahi Center works, “exemplifying itself as a role Exchange, Ali Fajhan. blind art fair T(KKIC) was inaugurated by Sheikh model for other organizations.” President of KKIC, Abdul Lateef Dawood Al-Asousi, Assistant An exhibition presenting various Madani, for his part said the seminar he National Council of Culture, Arts and Letters Undersecretary, Ministry of Awqaf at aspects of the faith and highlighting the intends to drive home the importance announced hosting an exhibition for blind Iranian the Farwaniya Garden Ground Tuesday. negative aspects of social evils was of adhering to divine laws for the moral Tfemale artists, starting from March 2, 2014. The The quadrennial seminar, under the inaugurated by Indian Ambassador uplift of the society. Based on the over- event takes place at the Ahmad Al-Adwani Hall in patronage of the Ministry of Awqaf con- Sunil Jain. whelming response in the previous Abdullah Al-Salem, and lasts through March 6, 2014. It is cluded yesterday. Speaking at the opening ceremony, years, the organizers decided to hold set to inaugurate at 7 pm, while visiting hours are Speaking at the opening ceremony, the ambassador said the exhibition is the exhibition for five days. Other main announced on two periods, the first from 9 am to 12 pm, Sheikh Dawood Al-Asousi, shared the highly educative and undercuts societal events during the seminar had 4 ses- and the second from 5 pm to 9 pm. The exhibition, titled good wishes of the Minister of Awqaf, problems such drinking and smoking sions, with special programs for chil- ‘Beauty in our Eyes’, is organized in cooperation with the Sheikh Naif Al-Ajmi and congratulated among others. The ambassador com- dren, teenagers and women, and a cultural attaché in the Iranian embassy in Kuwait. the organizers for the “great service pared the moral teachings in various friendly interaction between leaders of they have been doing for the faiths stressing the importance of these different faiths. The highlight of the Malayalam speaking Indian community values in human life. evening was the speech by renowned CRYcket 2014 in Kuwait.” The ceremony also saw the launch of Indian scholar and orator Hussain Salafi, tournament The deputy undersecretary further the souvenir presented by Khalid Falah who spoke on the topic “Religion for added that KKIC is noted for the propa- Al-Mutairi of revival of Islamic Heritage Human Good.” riends of CRY Club (FOCC) will hold 17th CRY (Child Rights & You) cricket tournament for children will be held at the FGC grounds at Fahaheel Sports Club on Friday, 27th Mar 2014 from 6:30 am to 6 pm. The one day “CRYcket” tournament participated by children under 14 (born on or after 01.01.2000), is a very popular annual family event. The children are grouped into teams in two age categories and play softball cricket while spectators, parents and well-wishers enjoy a carnival atmosphere. 12 teams each are set to participate in the Under-12 and Under-14 divisions initially in four groups in round robin fashion leading to 4 winners who will clash in the semifinals. The 7-over matches will be played simul- taneously on two playgrounds. Apart from the winners’ tro- phies, medals and certificates from CRY-India will be given to each player.

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Send to What’s On he Premier Goal Academy, sponsored by Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, played upcoming events, birthdays or host to the ladies of Fatat Football Club recently. The Everton Girls team aged from 12 to 16 years gave celebrations by email: Ta good account of themselves in a match full of effort, enthusiasm and fine skills, but it was the [email protected] strength and experience of the Fatat Ladies that finally triumphed. Girls football coaching takes place at Bayan Block 7, adjacent to Abdullah Al-Rujaib High School every Sunday and Tuesday from 5 - 6.30pm and Fax: 24835619 / 20 all girls aged 11 years and above are welcome to attend for a free trial. WHAT’S ON SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

PGA Everton Under 14s he Premier Goal Academy Everton Under 14s team, sponsored by Porsche Centre Kuwait, Behbehani Motors Company, reached the finalof the Ministry of Defence Academies Football tour- Tnament during the National and Liberation holiday. Two wins and a draw from their three matches sent the Everton boys through to the final where they were narrowly defeated by 2-0. All the boys along with coaches Sam and Omar received their medals and prizes from Ministry of Defence officials and impressed with their skilful football, sportsmanship and team play. The new P.G.A. coaching course begins this weekend - 28th February/1st March at Bayan Block 7, next to Abdullah Al-Rujaib High School. There are coaching groups available for all ability levels from age 3 to 18 years with weekly matches for the Centre of Excellence teams. For further details see http://www.pga-kuwait.com.kw/

‘Keli 2014’, a spectacular show

urtains came down on ‘Keli 2014’, a spectacular theatre KSNA Kuwait Chapter Chairman Vijay Karayil presided over and Shemejkumar K K presented mementos to the guests Cfestival of Gulf Malayali Diaspora, organized by the the function and delivered the presidential speech. KSNA Vice while Thomas Mathew Kadavil and Varghese Puthukulangara Kuwait Chapter of the Kerala Sangeetha Chairman T M Abraham, KSNA Secretary Dr P V Krishnan Nair, delivered felicitation speeches. Vijay Karayil presented a NatakaAkademi(KSNA) on Wednesday at Khaitan Indian KSNA member and theatre director Meenambalam Satnhosh, memento to the Ambassador while Sajeev K Peter honored Community School Auditorium. A packed crowd comprising who arrived from Kerala as judges of the festival, attended Valsala Menon. Adv Johney Kunnil proposed a vote of thanks. theatre lovers and community members watched the five the ceremony. Well-known South Indian film and theatre Rajashree Nair anchored the event. plays that were staged during the two days making ‘Keli 2014’ actress Valsala Menon attended the ceremony as guest of On the first day of the festival, ‘AmmeMappu’ by Kalpak a roaring success. honour. Kuwait and ‘Pashu’ by Nirbhaya Theatre, were performed. On At a glittering opening ceremony on Tuesday evening, Earlier, KSNA Kuwait Chapter Coordinator Sajeev K Peter day two, ‘Kottukaranum Kure Thullakkarum’ by Thanima Indian Ambassador Sunil Jain lighted the traditional lamp and welcomed the gathering while Program Convener B S Pillai Kuwait, ‘Ushna Mekhalayile Penkutty’ by Future Eye Theatre officially inaugurated the festival. He congratulated KSNA read out of the profiles of the guests. Ad-Hoc committee and ‘Randam Bhavam’ by Kala Kuwait were presented. ‘Keli Kuwait Chapter for taking the initiative to hold the festival member Sunil P Antony handed over the first copy of ‘Keli 2014’ gave a new experience to theatre and art lovers in and wished that ‘Keli 2014’ would help promote India’s art 2014’ souvenir and Raj Shekhar and K N S Das jointly released Kuwait who overwhelmingly supported and greeted the two- and culture in Kuwait further. it. Ad-Hoc Committee members Babuji Bathery, Nixon George day festival. HEALTH SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Philippines claims record in organ donor pledges

MANILA: The Philippines has broken India’s need of organs and this is part of the goal of the record of gathering the most organ donor Department of Health to remove the stigma pledges in an hour at a single site, health offi- attached to donating organs,” Tayag said. cials said yesterday. The feat awaits the He said the record was still unofficial because Guinness World Records’ official confirmation. there were no Guinness adjudicators present. Health Assistant Secretary Eric Tayag said the Documented results will be sent to the records campaign gathered 3,548 pledges at an event body. held at the Polytechnic University of the The Philippines also hopes to top India’s Philippines’ Manila campus, beating India’s pre- record of 10,450 pledges in a single site in eight vious record of 2,755. hours, and to set new records for the most num- At the event, aimed at raising awareness ber of donors signing up in one hour and eight about organ donation, volunteers filled out hours in multiple sites. forms with a checklist of organs they are willing Aside from Manila, simultaneous registration MANILA: Students from the country’s state university, the Polytechnic University of the to donate upon death. Those forms were then of donors was held in five other cities. Philippines, queue up with their “lifeline forms” indicating their willingness to donate their checked and recorded by organizers. The results for the other record attempts internal organs during a nationwide campaign in Manila yesterday. — AP “We have a lot of countrymen who are in dire were not yet available. — AP

Teen helps scientists ‘Park bison can study her rare disease be transferred’

BILLINGS: A government-funded experiment on diseased More research needed bison herds in Yellowstone National Park shows non-infect- ed animals can be safely removed and used to start new WASHINGTON: First the teenager sur- of this cancer, who the journal said patient registry, and NIH’s Office of Rare herds, researchers from the US Department of Agriculture vived a rare cancer. Then she wanted to didn’t want to be identified, also co- Diseases Research has posted on its web and a wildlife group said Thursday. study it, spurring a study that helped sci- authored the study. site a YouTube video in which Elana The results bolster arguments that a species driven to entists find a weird gene flaw that might Together, the team reported Simon and a fellow survivor explain why the brink of extinction last century could be restored to play a role in how the tumor strikes. Age Thursday that they uncovered an oddity: to get involved. parts of its once-vast territory without threatening livestock 18 is pretty young to be listed as an A break in genetic material that left the “Fibrolamellar Hepatocellular with disease. Yellowstone’s bison are prized for their pure author of a study in the prestigious jour- “head” of one gene fused to the “body” Carcinoma. Not easy to pronounce. Not genetics. About half of them test positive for exposure to nal Science. But the industrious high of another. That results in an abnormal easily understood,” it says. brucellosis, which causes pregnant animals to prematurely school student’s efforts are bringing protein that forms inside the tumors but Simon was diagnosed at age 12. abort their young. new attention to this mysterious dis- not in normal liver tissue, suggesting it Surgery is the only effective treatment, Government workers captured and slaughtered thou- ease. might fuel cancer growth, the and her tumor was caught in time that it sands of migrating bison over the past two decades to pre- “It’s crazy that I’ve been able to do researchers wrote. They’ve found the worked. But there are few options if the vent them from coming into contact with cattle herds in this,” said Elana Simon of New York City, evidence in all 15 of the tumors tested cancer spreads, and Simon knows other Montana. The practice has resumed this winter under a describing her idea to study the so far. patients who weren’t so lucky. state-federal agreement that calls for controlling the migra- extremely rare form of liver cancer that It’s a small study, and more research tion and maintaining their population at about 3,000 ani- mostly hits adolescents and young is needed to see what this gene flaw Genetic mutations mals. adults. really does, cautioned Dr. Sanford A high school internship during her By capturing and putting park bison into quarantine, the Making that idea work required a lot Simon, the teen’s father and the study’s sophomore year let Simon use her com- animals could be declared brucellosis-free within three of help from real scientists: Her father, senior author. puter science skills to help researchers years, or even sooner with calves and male animals, accord- who runs a cellular biophysics lab at the But the teen-spurred project has sort data on genetic mutations in a labo- ing to researchers from the US Department of Agriculture’s Rockefeller University; her surgeon at grown into work to get more patients ratory studying another type of cancer. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the Wildlife Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer involved in scientific research. Scientists Simon wondered, why not try the Conservation Society. Center; and gene specialists at the New at the National Institutes of Health are same approach with the liver cancer Advocates say that means Yellowstone could be used as York Genome Center. A second survivor advising the Simons on how to set up a she’d survived? a supply source for establishing bison herds on public and The hurdle: Finding enough tumors tribal lands across the West. to test. Only about 200 people a year More than 200 bison were captured and used in the worldwide are diagnosed, according to experiment, which was carried out in partnership with the Fibrolamellar Cancer Foundation, Montana wildlife and livestock officials. which helped fund the new study. There Some bison were killed for testing or after infections was no registry that kept tissue samples appeared. About 60 animals and their offspring remained after surgery. disease-free and were transferred to tribes on the Fort Peck But Simon’s pediatric cancer surgeon, and Fort Belknap Indian Reservations. The remaining bison Sloan-Kettering’s Dr. Michael LaQuaglia, are being held on a ranch near Bozeman owned by media agreed to help, and Simon spread the mogul Ted Turner until a permanent home is found. word to patient groups. Finally, samples “This will help defuse the argument about brucellosis, trickled in, and Sanford Simon said his that the animals are carrying brucellosis and will give it to daughter was back on the computer cattle around them,” said wildlife pathologist Jack Rhyan of helping to analyze what was different in the health inspection service. “I’ll feel more positive after the tumor cells. 1,000 animals have gone through. That’s just caution At the collaborating New York because this disease sometimes crops up where you never Genome Center, which genetically think it can.” mapped the samples, co-author Nicolas Efforts to relocate or provide new habitat for the park’s Robine said a program called surplus bison have stalled recently in the face of livestock FusionCatcher ultimately zeroed in on industry opposition. Besides concerns over disease, ranch- the weird mutation. ers complain that the animals knock over fencing and eat Sanford Simon said other researchers grass that could otherwise go to cattle. then conducted laboratory experiments Yellowstone biologists counted 4,600 bison in the park to show the abnormal protein really is active inside tumor cells. last summer. More than 200 have been killed this winter by He calls it “an exciting time for kids to hunters, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. go into science,” because there’s so Another 145 animals have been sent to slaughter, and much they can research via computer. 33 were transferred into another health inspection service NEW YORK: This handout photo provided by The Rockefeller University, shows As for Elana Simon, she plans to experiment dealing with animal contraception, Yellowstone Elana Simon, 18, of New York, pictured in a laboratory at The Rockefeller study computer science at Harvard next spokesman Al-Nash said.—AP University in New York. — AP fall. —- AP

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(C 4653) tion that my original qualify- 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:05 AM WER (DIG) 1:00 AM AMERICAN HUSTLE (DIG) 10:45 PM 1-3-2014 ing examination certificate of NO SUN+TUE+WED WER (DIG) 1:15 AM main secondary examination SHARQIA-2 NO SUN+TUE+WED THE LEGO MOVIE (DIG-3D) 1:30 PM MARINA-2 Hyundai Azera 2008. Full of year 2010-2012 and roll no. NON-STOP (DIG) 3:30 PM ROBOCOP (DIG) 1:00 PM AL-KOUT.1 options, sun roof, navigation, 8106150 issued by CBSE, ROBOCOP (DIG) 5:45 PM PATRICK (DIG) 3:30 PM POMPEII (DIG) 12:45 PM leather seats. KD. 2500/- India has been actually lost. NON-STOP (DIG) 8:00 PM PATRICK (DIG) 5:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 3:00 PM Name of candidate: negotiable. Call: 65860200 NON-STOP (DIG) 10:15 PM PATRICK (DIG) 7:45 PM POMPEII (DIG) 5:15 PM Mohamed Muzammil, Abu NON-STOP (DIG) 12:30 AM POMPEII (DIG) 9:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 7:30 PM Halifa, Block-1, Street-1, PATRICK (DIG) 12:05 AM POMPEII (DIG) 9:45 PM Toyota Yaris, model 2013, SHARQIA-3 Building 1, Flat 25, Kuwait. NO SUN+TUE+WED 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:05 AM mileage 3,500 white exterior, Mob: 66823168. (C 4651) WER (DIG) 12:45 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED price KD 2,550. Phone: 23-2-2014 PATRICK (DIG) 2:45 PM MARINA-3 WER (DIG) 4:45 PM POMPEII (DIG-3D) 1:30 PM AL-KOUT.2 PATRICK (DIG) 6:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 3:45 PM PATRICK (DIG) 2:00 PM WER (DIG) 8:45 PM POMPEII (DIG-3D) 6:00 PM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 4:00 PM PATRICK (DIG) 10:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM PATRICK (DIG) 6:00 PM Hospitals WER (DIG) 12:45 AM NON-STOP (DIG) 10:30 PM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 8:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:45 AM PATRICK (DIG) 10:00 PM MUHALAB-1 NO SUN+TUE+WED PATRICK (DIG) 12:15 AM Sabah Hospital 24812000 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 1:00 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED AVENUES-1 THE LEGO MOVIE (DIG) 3:15 PM Amiri Hospital 22450005 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 5:15 PM OGGY AND THE COCKROACHES: AL-KOUT.3 NO THU+FRI+MON THE MOVIE (DIG) 1:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 1:00 PM Maternity Hospital 24843100 BHIMAVARAM BULLODU (DIG) (Telugu) 5:15 PM OGGY AND THE COCKROACHES: NON-STOP (DIG) 3:30 PM THU+FRI+MON THE MOVIE (DIG) 3:00 PM THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 5:45 PM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 8:00 PM OGGY AND THE COCKROACHES: Mubarak Al-Kabir Hospital 25312700 NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 10:00 PM THE MOVIE (DIG) 5:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 10:30 PM ROBOCOP (DIG) 7:00 PM Chest Hospital 24849400 MUHALAB-2 ROBOCOP (DIG) 9:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:45 AM WER (DIG) 2:00 PM ROBOCOP (DIG) 12:05 AM NO SUN+TUE+WED Farwaniya Hospital 24892010 PATRICK (DIG) 4:00 PM AL-KOUT.4 WER (DIG) 6:00 PM AVENUES-2 Adan Hospital 23940620 PATRICK (DIG) 8:00 PM THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 2:15 PM WER (DIG) 1:00 PM WER (DIG) 10:00 PM AMERICAN HUSTLE (DIG) 4:45 PM WER (DIG) 3:00 PM THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 7:15 PM WER (DIG) 5:00 PM Ibn Sina Hospital 24840300 MUHALAB-3 THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 9:45 PM CODE RED (DIG) 7:00 PM POMPEII (DIG-3D) 12:45 PM THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 12:15 AM WER (DIG) 9:00 PM Al-Razi Hospital 24846000 NON-STOP (DIG) 3:00 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED WER (DIG) 11:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 5:15 PM WER (DIG) 1:00 AM Physiotherapy Hospital 24874330/9 POMPEII (DIG-3D) 7:30 PM AVENUES-3 NO SUN+TUE+WED NON-STOP (DIG) 9:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 1:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 3:45 PM BAIRAQ-1 Clinics FANAR-1 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 6:15 PM THE LEGO MOVIE (DIG-3D) 1:00 PM PATRICK (DIG) 12:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 8:45 PM POMPEII (DIG-3D) 3:00 PM Rabiya 24732263 PATRICK (DIG) 3:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 11:15 PM WER (DIG) 5:15 PM WINTER’S TALE (DIG) 5:15 PM POMPEII (DIG-3D) 7:15 PM PATRICK (DIG) 7:30 PM AVENUES-4 WER (DIG) 9:30 PM Rawdha 22517733 PATRICK (DIG) 9:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 1:30 PM WER (DIG) 11:30 PM PATRICK (DIG) 12:05 AM NON-STOP (DIG) 3:45 PM Adailiya 22517144 NON-STOP (DIG) 6:00 PM BAIRAQ-2 FANAR-2 NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 1:45 PM Khaldiya 24848075 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 1:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 10:30 PM THE LEGO MOVIE (DIG) 4:00 PM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 4:00 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:45 AM PATRICK (DIG) 6:00 PM Khaifan 24849807 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 6:00 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 8:00 PM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 8:15 PM AVENUES-5 PATRICK (DIG) 10:15 PM Shamiya 24848913 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 10:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:15 AM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:30 AM POMPEII (DIG) 3:00 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 5:15 PM Shuwaikh 24814507 FANAR-3 POMPEII (DIG-3D) 7:30 PM BAIRAQ-3 WER (DIG) 1:00 PM NO THU Abdullah Salim 22549134 ROBOCOP (DIG) 3:15 PM Special Show “3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG)” 7:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 1:30 PM GUNDAY (DIG) (HINDI) 5:45 PM THU NON-STOP (DIG) 3:45 PM Al-Nuzha 22526804 WER (DIG) 8:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 9:45 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 6:15 PM WER (DIG) 10:45 PM POMPEII (DIG) 12:05 AM KHOUTAT GIMI (DIG) 8:30 PM Industrial Shuwaikh 24814764 WER (DIG) 12:45 AM NO SUN+TUE+WED NON-STOP (DIG) 10:30 PM 360º- 1 NON-STOP (DIG) 12:45 AM FANAR-4 PATRICK (DIG) 2:00 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED NON-STOP (DIG) 1:15 PM PATRICK (DIG) 4:15 PM THE LEGO MOVIE (DIG-3D) 3:30 PM PATRICK (DIG) 6:30 PM PLAZA 112 NON-STOP (DIG) 5:30 PM PATRICK (DIG) 8:45 PM BHIMAVARAM BULLODU (DIG) (Telugu) 6:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 7:45 PM PATRICK (DIG) 11:00 PM BHIMAVARAM BULLODU (DIG) (Telugu) 9:30 PM NON-STOP (DIG) 10:00 PM PATRICK (DIG) 1:15 AM NON-STOP (DIG) 12:15 AM NO SUN+TUE+WED LAILA Prayer timings NO SUN+TUE+WED PATRICK (DIG) 6:15 PM 360º- 2 NON-STOP (DIG) 8:15 PM Fajr: 04:56 FANAR-5 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 2:15 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 10:30 PM POMPEII (DIG) 12:30 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 4:45 PM Shorook 06:14 CODE RED (DIG) 2:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 7:15 PM AJIAL.1 Duhr: 12:01 POMPEII (DIG) 4:45 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 9:45 PM THEGIDI (DIG) (Tamil) 7:00 PM THE MONUMENTS MEN (DIG) 7:00 PM 3 DAYS TO KILL (DIG) 12:15 AM THEGIDI (DIG) (Tamil) 10:00 PM Asr: 15:19 POMPEII (DIG) 9:30 PM NO SUN+TUE+WED POMPEII (DIG) 11:45 PM AJIAL.2 Maghrib: 17:47 360º- 3 NO SUN+TUE+WED BHIMAVARAM BULLODU (DIG) (Telugu) 6:45 PM Isha: 19:04 OGGY AND THE COCKROACHES: BHIMAVARAM BULLODU (DIG) (Telugu) 9:45 PM information SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 DIAL 161 FOR AIRPORT INFORMATION

In case you are not travelling, your proper cancellation of bookings will help other passengers use seats

Arrival Flights on Saturday 1/3/2014 GFA 215 BAHRAIN 17:30 JZR 356 MASHHAD 10:45 Airlines Flt Route Time UAL 982 WASHINGTON DC DULLES 18:00 QTR 1071 DOHA 10:55 JAI 574 MUMBAI 00:10 IZG 4167 MASHAD 18:35 KAC 501 BEIRUT 11:10 KLM 413 AMSTERDAM 00:30 QTR 1080 DOHA 18:40 GFA 214 BAHRAIN 11:25 THY 772 ISTANBUL 00:45 FDB 63 DUBAI 18:45 KAC 541 CAIRO 11:30 QTR 1084 DOHA 00:55 GFA 217 BAHRAIN 19:30 IRM 1185 SHIRAZ 11:35 DLH 637 DAMMAM 01:10 IRA 607 MASHAD 19:50 KAC 165 ROME 11:50 JZR 539 CAIRO 00:40 OMA 647 MUSCAT 19:55 IAW 158 BAGHDAD 12:00 SAI 441 LAHORE 01:30 FDB 8053 DUBAI 17:40 MSC 402 ALEXANDRIA 12:20 GFA 211 BAHRAIN 02:10 KAC 618 DOHA 19:00 JZR 776 JEDDAH 12:25 THY 764 SABIHA 02:15 KAC 562 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 14:50 IZG 4162 MASHHAD 12:35 UAE 853 DUBAI 02:35 KAC 672 DUBAI 14:00 DHX 521 BAGRAM 13:00 ETD 305 ABU DHABI-INTL 02:45 KAC 790 MEDINAH 19:45 GBG 943 SHARJAH 13:00 JAI 576 COCHIN 02:50 KAC 502 BEIRUT 18:50 SYR 342 DAMASCUS 13:30 OMA 643 MUSCAT 03:05 KAC 176 GENEVA 19:15 JZR 786 RIYADH 13:35 JZR 555 ALEXANDRIA 02:25 KAC 788 JEDDAH 15:10 TMA 223 AL MAKTOUM INTERNATIONAL 13:45 PIA 239 LAHORE 03:05 KAC 118 NEW YORK 16:35 JZR 176 DUBAI 13:45 MSR 612 CAIRO 03:10 KAC 104 LONDON 19:35 MSR 580 SOHAG 13:50 QTR 1076 DOHA 03:45 KAC 674 DUBAI 19:25 MRJ 4814 MASHHAD 13:55 MSC 401 ALEXANDRIA 03:45 KAC 542 CAIRO 18:05 MSR 611 CAIRO 14:00 FDB 67 DUBAI 04:20 KAC 522 NAJAF 13:45 IRM 1189 MASHHAD 14:05 UAE 872 DUBAI 14:15 THY 770 ISTANBUL 05:35 KAC 614 BAHRAIN 23:00 FDB 58 DUBAI 14:30 DHX 170 BAHRAIN 05:40 JZR 189 DUBAI 21:00 QTR 1079 DOHA 14:55 BAW 157 LONDON 06:40 JZR 185 DUBAI 23:20 MSR 576 SHARM EL SHEIKH 15:00 QTR 1086 DOHA 07:50 JZR 239 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 22:20 JZR 134 BAHRAIN 15:00 FDB 53 DUBAI 07:50 JZR 181 AL MAKTOUM INTERNATI 22:25 KAC 673 DUBAI 15:05 JZR 529 ASYUT 06:20 KNE 474 JEDDAH 20:00 KAC 789 MADINAH 15:20 JZR 503 LUXOR 05:50 TBZ 5483 MASHAD 20:00 KAC 773 RIYADH 15:20 KAC 206 ISLAMABAD 07:40 MSR 618 ALEXANDRIA 20:05 KAC 617 DOHA 15:30 KAC 412 MANILA 06:45 JAI 572 MUMBAI 20:10 KNE 473 JEDDAH 15:30 KAC 416 JAKARTA 06:25 ABY 129 SHARJAH 20:20 IRC 6693 MASHHAD 15:35 UAE 855 DUBAI 08:40 AXB 489 COCHIN 20:35 GFA 222 BAHRAIN 15:45 KAC 352 COCHIN 08:10 DLH 636 FRANKFURT 20:55 SVA 505 JEDDAH 16:00 KAC 302 MUMBAI 07:55 FDB 71 DUBAI 21:05 IRM 1187 TEHRAN 16:30 KAC 362 COLOMBO 08:45 ALK 229 COLOMBO 21:10 KNE 471 JEDDAH 16:30 ABY 125 SHARJAH 09:00 MEA 402 BEIRUT 21:20 JZR 188 DUBAI 16:30 ETD 301 ABU DHABI-INTL 09:20 ETD 307 ABU DHABI-INTL 21:35 KNE 463 MADINAH 16:35 FDB 55 DUBAI 09:40 UAE 859 DUBAI 21:40 KNE 481 TAIF 16:45 QTR 1070 DOHA 09:55 KNE 480 TAIF 21:45 NIA 252 ALEXANDRIA 16:50 IRM 1186 TEHRAN 10:15 GFA 219 BAHRAIN 21:45 JZR 238 AMMAN 16:55 GFA 213 BAHRAIN 10:40 QTR 1074 DOHA 22:00 KAC 785 JEDDAH 17:00 IAW 157 NAJAF 11:00 FDB 59 DUBAI 22:00 JAV 622 AMMAN 17:15 IZG 4161 MASHAD 11:05 KLM 415 AMSTERDAM 22:05 ETD 304 ABU DHABI 17:35 MSC 405 SOHAG 11:20 AIC 975 CHENNAI 22:30 JZR 180 AL MAKTOUM INTERNATIONAL 17:40 TMA 213 BEIRUT 12:10 UAL 981 BAHRAIN 23:10 QTR 1073 DOHA 17:40 KAC 284 DHAKA 8:50 KAC 786 JEDDAH 23:05 JZR 538 CAIRO 17:50 KAC 382 DELHI 7:55 UAE 858 DUBAI 17:50 KAC 344 CHENNAI 8:35 Departure Flights on Saturday 1/3/2014 RJA 641 AMMAN 17:55 JZR 165 DUBAI 11:30 Airlines Flt Route Time ABY 128 SHARJAH 18:05 ABY 121 SHARJAH 9:30 AIC 976 GOA 00:05 SVA 511 RIYADH 18:15 DHX 870 BAHRAIN 11:15 JAI 573 MUMBAI 01:10 GFA 216 BAHRAIN 18:20 GBG 942 BAGHDAD 11:00 KLM 413 AMSTERDAM 01:45 FDB 8054 DUBAI 18:20 MRJ 4815 MASHAD 12:25 DLH 637 FRANKFURT 02:10 JZR 184 DUBAI 18:40 SYR 341 DAMASCUS 12:30 SAI 442 LAHORE 02:30 JZR 266 BEIRUT 18:50 IRM 1188 MASHAD 12:40 THY 773 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 02:55 UAL 982 BAHRAIN 19:15 UAE 871 DUBAI 12:50 UAE 854 DUBAI 03:50 JZR 554 ALEXANDRIA 19:20 MSR 610 CAIRO 13:00 ETD 306 ABU DHABI 04:00 FDB 64 DUBAI 19:25 MSR 579 SOHAG 13:05 OMA 644 MUSCAT 04:05 IZG 4168 MASHHAD 19:35 FDB 57 DUBAI 13:50 MSR 613 CAIRO 04:10 QTR 1081 DOHA 19:40 QTR 1078 DOHA 13:55 QTR 1085 DOHA 04:15 KAC 613 BAHRAIN 20:00 MSR 575 SHARM EL SHEIKH 14:15 PIA 240 SIALKOT 04:35 GFA 218 BAHRAIN 20:15 SVA 500 JEDDAH 14:30 MSC 406 SOHAG 04:45 KAC 283 DHAKA 20:30 KNE 472 JEDDAH 14:35 FDB 68 DUBAI 05:00 KNE 475 JEDDAH 20:45 TBZ 5484 MASHHAD 20:45 IRC 6692 MASHAD 14:40 THY 5465 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 05:05 IRA 604 ISFAHAN 20:50 GFA 221 BAHRAIN 15:00 QTR 1077 DOHA 05:15 OMA 648 MUSCAT 20:55 IRM 1184 SHIRAZ 15:15 JAI 575 ABU DHABI 06:45 KAC 331 TRIVANDRUM 20:55 KNE 470 JEDDAH 15:35 JZR 164 DUBAI 06:55 KAC 361 COLOMBO 21:00 KNE 462 MEDINAH 15:45 THY 765 ISTANBUL-SABIHA 07:05 ABY 120 SHARJAH 21:00 NIA 251 ALEXANDRIA 15:50 GFA 212 BAHRAIN 07:15 MSR 607 LUXOR 21:05 JAV 621 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 15:55 JZR 240 AMMAN 07:20 JAI 571 MUMBAI 21:10 KNE 460 RIYADH 16:00 THY 771 ISTANBUL-ATATURK 07:30 KAC 351 KOCHI 21:10 UAE 857 DUBAI 16:40 FDB 54 DUBAI 08:30 DLH 636 DAMMAM 21:35 QTR 1072 DOHA 16:40 JZR 779 JEDDAH 08:40 KAC 543 CAIRO 21:40 ETD 303 ABU DHABI-INTL 16:50 BAW 156 LONDON 08:45 FDB 72 DUBAI 21:45 RJA 640 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 16:55 QTR 1087 DOHA 08:50 DHX 171 BAHRAIN 21:50 SVA 510 RIYADH 17:15 JZR 256 BEIRUT 08:55 ALK 230 COLOMBO 22:10 ABY 127 SHARJAH 17:25 JZR 534 CAIRO 09:00 MEA 403 BEIRUT 22:20 KAC 538 SOHAG 17:05 KAC 537 SOHAG 09:05 ETD 308 ABU DHABI 22:20 KAC 774 RIYADH 18:45 KAC 787 JEDDAH 09:25 KNE 461 RIYADH 22:30 JZR 325 NAJAF 12:55 KAC 561 AMMAN 09:25 GFA 220 BAHRAIN 22:30 JZR 357 MASHAD 16:45 KAC 671 DUBAI 09:30 KAC 301 MUMBAI 22:35 JZR 535 CAIRO 15:50 JZR 324 AL NAJAF 09:35 FDB 60 DUBAI 22:40 JZR 777 JEDDAH 17:55 ABY 126 SHARJAH 09:40 UAE 860 DUBAI 22:50 JZR 778 JEDDAH 14:10 KAC 101 LONDON 09:50 KAC 381 DELHI 22:50 JZR 787 RIYADH 17:00 UAE 856 DUBAI 09:55 KAC 205 ISLAMABAD 22:55 JZR 257 BEIRUT 15:40 ETD 302 ABU DHABI 10:05 JZR 552 ALEXANDRIA 23:00 JZR 135 BAHRAIN 18:00 KAC 521 AL NAJAF 10:05 KLM 415 DAMMAM 23:05 JZR 241 AMMAN-QUEEN ALIA 12:45 ABY 122 SHARJAH 10:10 QTR 1075 DOHA 23:10 JZR 177 DUBAI 18:20 FDB 56 DUBAI 10:20 KAC 411 BANGKOK 23:55 Directorate General of Civil Aviation Home Page (www.kuwait-airport.com.kw) SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Word Search DOWN 1. Disabled in the feet or legs. CROSSWORD473 2. Type genus of the family Arcidae. 3. Thigh of a hog (usually smoked). 4. Inquire about. 5. A soft suede leather formerly from the sheep of the chamois antelope but now from sheepskin. 6. A worker who oils engines or machinery. 7. Remove the pins from. 8. A cut of pork ribs with much of the meat trimmed off. 9. (British) A waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric. 10. A public promotion of some product or service. 11. The cardinal number that is the sum of six and one. 12. (Old Testament) The second patriarch. 13. East Indian tree yielding a resin used medicinally and burned as incense. 14. Perennial of southern Europe cultivated for forage and for its nectar-rich pink flowers that make it an important honey crop. 22. (Old Testament) The first of the major Hebrew prophets (8th century BC). 26. A radioactive transuranic element. 27. Islands in the Atlantic Ocean belonging to Portugal. 28. Large edible mackerel of temperate United States coastal Atlantic waters. 30. Any of several compounds of barium. 32. (Philippine) A dish of marinated vegetables and meat or fish. 35. A beverage made by steeping tea leaves in water. 36. English theoretical physicist who applied relativity theory to quantum mechan- ics and predicted the existence of antimatter and the positron (1902-1984). 37. The sound of knocking (as on a door or in an engine or bearing). 38. Soft suede glove leather from goatskin. 40. Large elliptical brightly colored deep-sea fish of Atlantic and Pacific and Mediterranean. 41. A police officer who investigates crimes. 44. (Greek mythology) The king of Sparta at the time of the Trojan War. 49. An intensely radioactive metallic element that occurs in minute amounts in uranium ores. ACROSS 50. A detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work. 1. A pilgrimage to Mecca. 51. A state of Uganda and site of a former Bantu kingdom. 53. (Greek mythology) One of the three Graces. 4. Illusory auditory perception of strange nonverbal sounds. 55. The blood group whose red cells carry both the A and B antigens. 11. A fricative sound (especially as an expression of disapproval). 56. A rare silvery (usually trivalent) metallic element. 15. A constellation in the southern hemisphere near Telescopium and Norma. 59. A white soft metallic element that tarnishes readily. 16. A stiff protective garment worn by hockey players or a catcher in baseball to 60. Any of various organs that synthesize substances needed by the body and protect the shins. release it through ducts or directly into the bloodstream. 17. (Old Testament) The eldest son of Isaac who would have inherited the 61. Of great size and bulk. Yesterdayʼs Solution Covenant that God made with Abraham and that Abraham passed on to Isaac. 63. (Babylonian) God of storms and wind. 18. The smallest multiple that is exactly divisible by every member of a set of num- 64. Of a quality, as in. bers. 65. A facial expression characterized by turning up the corners of the mouth. 66. A Gaelic-speaking Celt in Ireland or Scotland or the Isle of Man. 19. A high-crowned black cap (usually made of felt or sheepskin) worn by men in 67. An organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for Turkey and Iran and the Caucasus. the sale of petroleum. 20. A fragment broken off from the edge or face of stone or ore and having at least 68. A quantity of no importance. one thin edge. 71. Enlarged prostate. 21. A sock with a separation for the big toe. 72. Leaf or strip from a leaf of the talipot palm used in India for writing paper. 23. Israeli statesman (born in Russia) (1898-1978). 24. An official language of the Republic of South Africa. 25. English playwright (1929-1994). Yesterdayʼs Solution 29. A member of the Algonquian people of Maine and southern Quebec. 31. Torn down and broken up. 33. A silvery soft waxy metallic element of the alkali metal group. 34. A whistling sound when breathing (usually heard on inspiration). 39. Emit a cry intended to attract other animals. 42. Napoleon defeated the Russians in a pitched battle at Borodino in 1812, but irreparably weakened his army. 43. Bleeding into the interior chamber of the eye. 45. A light strong brittle gray toxic bivalent metallic element. 46. Mythical bird of prey having enormous size and strength. 47. The 7th letter of the Greek alphabet. 48. A ductile gray metallic element of the lanthanide series. 52. A member of the Siouan people formerly living in the Missouri river valley in NE Nebraska. 54. Kamarupan languages spoken in northeastern India and western Burma. 57. (India) Absolutely first class and genuine. 58. Fleshy spore-bearing inner mass of e.g. a puffball or stinkhorn. 62. Cheap showy jewelry or ornament or clothing. 69. The content of cognition. 70. (anatomy) Opposite to or away from the mouth. 73. Plant with an elongated head of broad stalked leaves resembling celery. 74. (the feminine of raja) A Hindu princess or the wife of a raja. 75. A transmission from Earth to a spacecraft or the path of such a transmission. Maze 76. A notable achievement. 77. Tropical starchy tuberous root. 78. A drink made of beer and lemonade. 79. Type genus of the Alcidae comprising solely the razorbill.

Daily SuDoku Yesterday’s Solution SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Three days for first draw of NBK’s campaign ‘Win 32 travel packages to FIFA World Cup Brazil’ KUWAIT: National Bank of Kuwait (NBK) will hold the sporting extravaganza. Each travel package includes all current and new Al Shahab customers who trans- first draw in its campaign “win 32 travel packages for two match tickets, round trip airline tickets, hotel fer their student allowance to NBK will get 5 chances two to the 2014 FIFA World Cup” on Tuesday 4th of accommodation for four nights, and transfer service to win in each draw. March 2014. There will be 10 winners rewarded with for both winner and guest. NBK and Visa Worldwide have once again part- travel packages for two to attend the games of the NBK Visa Cardholders (prepaid, credit cards) will nered to bring the thrill and enthusiasm of the 2014 2014 FIFA World Cup that will be held in Brazil. get one chance to enter the draw for every KD 20 FIFA World Cup to Kuwait. NBK is privileged to be the NBK is the only official non-host retail banking spent locally using their NBK Visa Cards for all pur- first and only bank in Kuwait to reward its customers partner of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Kuwait, in asso- chases during the promotion period. NBK Visa with this exclusive offer. ciation with Visa, the official FIFA partner. Cardholders (debit, prepaid and credit cards) can also FIFA World Cup is one of the world’s most popular In an exclusive campaign valid until 30 April, 2014, triple their chances to win while spending overseas sporting events. NBK hosted the 2014 FIFA World new and current NBK Visa Cardholders and customers during traveling or on the internet. Cup(tm) Winner’s Trophy on its first visit to Kuwait transferring their salaries or student allowances to All current and new NBK customers who have their last April. NBK Credit Cards are accepted worldwide NBK still have a chance to win 32 travel packages for salary transferred to NBK will be eligible to get 10 and are the safest, most convenient and rewarding two to attend the games of one of the world’s biggest chances to win in each draw for every transfer, while way to pay.

More to come from me, vows Federer DUBAI: Roger Federer uttered the astounding revelation after reaching the semi-finals of the Dubai Open on Thursday that he could conceivably remain on tour for another decade. The 32-year-old appeared to dismiss the idea when it was first put to him by the on-court interviewer, Chris Bradnam, but further questioning revealed that he did not rule out going on almost as long as Jimmy Connors. The American was still performing at a high level on tour past the age of 40, back in the early 1990’s. In Dubai, the Swiss legend was presented with a fan’s request that ‘win or lose, please would you keep playing another ten years?’ “No problem with that - the question is whether it would be on the tour or not!” answered Federer light-heartedly. Then he became a little more serious. “Clearly the goal is to play as long as I can, and to enjoy myself,” he said, knocking back critics’ suggestions that he should quit when he no longer has a chance of winning another Grand Slam title, which may be quite soon. “Playing is not a problem: the question is (whether it is) on the tour or not,” he repeated, and then offered one important insight as to why it is no problem. “The family love it on tour,” Federer empha- sised, referring to his wife Mirka, a former tour player, and to his two twin daughters, Myla Rose and Charlene Riva. It was a remark which prompted him to a slight rethink.

Popularity “So ten years, maybe,” he concluded, only half smilingly. “Ask it again and we will see. Let’s talk in ten years.” Part of the enduring dynamic is that much of Federer’s popularity is unrelated to just winning the biggest titles. It appears not to have waned at all, even though he slipped from top spot in the rankings 15 months ago to ACAPULCO: Spain’s David Ferrer serves to South Africa’s Kevin Anderson at the Mexican Tennis Open in world number eight now. Acapulco, Mexico, Thursday. —AP He has won frequent accolades for sportsmanship and charita- ble works, and his public relations efforts are famously and modest- ly generous. He also enjoys promoting many of the ATP Tour tour- naments, at whatever level. But the biggest ingredient of his future is probably the welfare of Murray into semis, his twin daughters, and on a separate occasion here this week Federer explained how well the lives of his two 4-year-olds appear to fit with his schedule on tour. “They’re coming to matches from time to time,” he said. “You depend on the stadiums, and some are Ferrer retires easier and some are harder to come to. It’s fun for them to come to the site sometimes, you know. “They play a little bit of tennis themselves now. They can relate a ACAPULCO: Top-seeded David Ferrer strain in his left leg. After seeking treat- Anderson said after the match. “I talked to little bit to what I am doing, and it’s not a bad thing. “Yeah, it’s withdrew from his Mexican Open quarter- ment in the locker room, the Spaniard him and he said that it happened when enjoyable and I like it when they come to the courts, and I’m warm- final against South Africa’ Kevin Anderson returned to the court but lost the next he was trying to go for a ball and felt his ing up and they’re running around too. in the second set on Thursday due to a two points before retiring. leg tweak a little bit”. “Then I come back after the matches, and they help me take my left thigh strain. Ferrer said he will have scans on Friday On the women’s side of the tourna- tape off and it’s really cute. It’s nice,” he said. Ferrer’s exit leaves Andy Murray as the and then assess his recovery. “I’m very ment, top-seeded Dominika Cibulkova of These emotional vibrations are what the longevity of Federer’s big favorite to win the Mexican Open 500. sad because I was playing great”, Ferrer Slovakia defeated New Zealand’s Marina ATP Tour career - already 18 years, and perhaps capable of continu- The Scot overcame a poor start to beat said. “I still do not know the extent of the Erakovic 6-4, 7-5 to set up semifinal ing till more records are broken - may hinge upon. Frenchmen Gilles Simon 1-6, 7-6 (4), 6-2. injury. “I’ll have to wait and see before tak- against China’s Shuai Zhang. Connors did not officially retire until he was 44, thus playing on “It’s tough to win matches when you ing a determination. The day was going Zhang, the eighth seed, ousted Ajla tour for 24 years, and reaching more Grand Slam quarter-finals (41) get down like that, I’ve been struggling so well for me and then this happened”. Tomljanovic of Croatia 6-1, 5-7, 6-2. than any other male until Federer equalled it at this year’s Australian with my service in the first two matches”, Anderson will next play Ukraine’s Canada’s Eugenie Bouchard suffered a Open. said Murray, who will play against the Alexandr Dolgopolov, who defeated Ivo surprise 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 loss to France’s The American eventually played 1,532 tournament matches and winner of the match between Latvia’s Karlovic of Croatia, 6-4, 7-6 (4). Anderson, Caroline Garcia. won 110 titles, which will take some beating, although Federer has Ernests Gulbis and Bulgarian Grigor who last week lost the Delray Beach final, Garcia, 89th in the WTA rankings, will already played 1,150 matches, and has won 77 titles. Dimitrov. will be playing in his first semifinals of an play in the semifinals against American His 302 weeks as world number one compares favourably to Murray has beaten Simon 12 straight Open 500. Christina McHale, who defeated third- Connors’ 268, and he has won many more Grand Slam titles (17) times. Third-ranked Ferrer was leading 6- “It’s unfortunate to win a match like seeded Kai Kanepi from Estonia 6-1, 2-6, than Connors (8). —AFP 4, 2-2 when he suffered an inner thigh this, but hopefully he gets better”, 6-4. —AP SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Ex-NFL star arrested in LA on New Orleans rape warrant

LOS ANGELES: Former football star nor her client had any comment. tors, Sharper drugged two women with Louisiana, Nevada, Arizona and Florida. Darren Sharper, wanted by New Orleans Sharper, who resides in Miami Beach, spiked drinks and raped one of them in a On the same day that Sharper appeared police as a suspect in two rapes, was Florida, was taken into custody on a fugi- hotel room in October, then drugged in Los Angeles court, police in Miami arrested on Thursday in Los Angeles, tive warrant on Thursday evening in Los two more women and raped one of them Beach released a report detailing a where he pleaded not guilty a week ago Angeles, though additional details of his at the same hotel in January. woman’s allegation that the football star to charges of drugging four other arrest were not available, Los Angeles He pleaded not guilty last Thursday to had also raped her. women and raping two of them. Police Department spokeswoman Nuria two counts of rape by use of drugs, four The woman told investigators she was The two women accusing him in New Vanegas said. counts of furnishing a controlled sub- intoxicated when she went to Sharper’s Orleans say Sharper, 38, and an acquain- Authorities did not disclose any infor- stance and one count of possession of a condo in 2012 and fell asleep. When she tance, Erik Nunez, 26, each raped them mation on the possible whereabouts of controlled substance. The five-time Pro woke up, she realized Sharper was hav- both at the same location on the night of Nunez. Sharper, a defensive back who Bowl player, suspended from his job as ing sex with her and left, according to Sept. 23, 2013, according to a New played 14 years in the National Football an NFL Network on-air commentator the police report. Orleans Police Department statement on League and helped the New Orleans after his arrest in January, was released The woman reported the 2012 inci- Thursday. Saints to a Super Bowl title in 2010, on $1 million bail in Los Angeles. dent to Miami Beach police two days No other details of the alleged pleaded not guilty to sexual assault and Prosecutors had wanted to raise the after Sharper was arrested in Los Angeles assaults were disclosed. Sharper’s attor- drug charges in Los Angeles on Feb. 20. bail amount to $10 million, citing sex on Jan. 17, police said. No charges in the ney, Nandi Campbell, said neither she According to Los Angeles prosecu- crime investigations against him in case have been filed. — Reuters

LA Angels reward young Trout with million-dollar salary

LOS ANGELES: The Los Angeles Angels agreed to a record $1 million, one-year con- tract for 22-year-old center fielder Mike Trout on Wednesday, setting a positive tone for their ongoing conversations regarding a massive long-term deal. The $1 million figure is the most for a Major League Baseball player who has not yet qualified for arbitration, according to the Major League Baseball’s website (mlb.com). Trout, with just two full seasons in the majors, is considered by some already to be the best all-around player in the game. “I think Mike’s earned that,” Angels general manager Jerry Dipoto said about the salary for Trout. “He’s certainly been an extraordi- nary player, and we have no doubt that he’ll continue to be that player.” The previous high-salary mark for players who have yet to qualify for arbitration was $900,000, received by Phillies first baseman Ryan Howard in 2007 and then-Cardinals first baseman Albert Pujols in 2003. PALM BEACH GARDENS: Josh Teater plays a shot on the third hole during the second round of The Honda Classic at PGA National Players with less than four seasons in the Resort and Spa yesterday in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. — AFP majors can have their contracts renewed by their clubs at a minimal increase, potentially saving the team considerable money. McIlroy takes charge at For most players with less than three years of Major League Baseball service time, clubs can determine their salaries, as long as Honda with opening 63 it’s at least the 2014 minimum of $500,000. Trout, however, has been so sensational, the Angels were running the risk of alienat- PALM BEACH GARDENS: Rory McIlroy pro- “If you can keep your ball in play and through six holes but it was a par on his ing the power-hitting speedster, who they duced a barnstorming back nine, charging give yourself plenty of birdie chances, that’s 12th hole, the par-five third, that most hope to lock up with a long term contract. A home with five birdies, to take the first- the name of the game here.” impressed. He pulled his second shot, an recent report by Yahoo! Sports said the round lead at the $6 million Honda Classic McIlroy’s sizzling start against the “horrendous” six-iron that ended partly sub- Angels and Trout’s representatives were in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida on Thursday. strongest field in the world so far this year merged in a water hazard, with a bunker working on a possible six-year, $150 million A year after quitting the tournament overshadowed Australian Adam Scott, one between his ball and the hole. contract. mid-round with his game in a shambles, of his playing partners on the day. Henley then removed his right shoe and Last spring, the Angels gave Trout only a McIlroy cut a contrasting figure on his way Not that Scott, gearing up to defend his sock and conjured up an outstanding third $20,000 increase from his American League to a flawless seven-under-par 63 in relatively Masters title in April, started badly as he shot to inside 10 feet, only to miss the birdie Rookie of the Year season in 2012, in a con- benign afternoon conditions at PGA opened with a 68 to sit five strokes off the putt. “I’ve never had that shot in my life,” he tract totaling $510,000. Asked why the National. pace. However the Australian’s move up the said. “I tried to treat it like a bunker shot.” “I made a great par save on nine which leaderboard stalled when he drowned his Mickelson, meanwhile, was not at his Angels paid above and beyond what was kept that bogey-free round alive,” the 24- tee shot at the par-three 15th, the first of best in his first competitive round as a pro- required this time, Dipoto said: “Honestly, year-old Northern Irishman told Golf three dangerous holes in a stretch known as fessional on the course, but he sounded because I think we felt like his performance Channel after seizing a one-shot lead over the “Bear Trap”, in honour of course design- mildly satisfied. was exceptional. American Russell Henley. er Jack Nicklaus. “I did some things really well and some “There are players that force you to break Buoyed by that 10-foot par putt at the things poorly,” the American left-hander a rule, and what Trout just did for two con- ninth, McIlroy birdied the next three holes Inconsistent Woods said, citing a need to improve his distance secutive years forced us to break our own and added further birdies on his last two Five-times major champion Phil control with his irons. “I’ve just got to get rule.” Trout finished second to Tigers slug- holes, much to the delight of his parents Mickelson did not do a lot wrong while that fine-tuning down. It’s a very difficult ger Miguel Cabrera for the American League Gerry and Rosie, who were in the gallery. carding a 70 in the afternoon while world course but when you hit good shots you get Most Valuable Player Award in each of the “It’s a good ball-striker’s course,” said number one Tiger Woods had an inconsis- rewarded with good birdie opportunities.” past two years. Last season, he batted .323 McIlroy, who looked ominously close to tent 71 in the morning and ended the day Fifty-six players broke par on a day when with 27 home runs, 97 runs batted in and 33 regaining the form that made him the tied for 81st in a field of 144. players were allowed preferred lies due to stolen bases. — Reuters world’s top-ranked player at the time of his Second-placed Henley started with four heavy pre-tournament rain that left the fair- meltdown 12 months ago. consecutive birdies and was five under ways damp. — Reuters SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Canadiens strengthen playoff, win at Penguins

PITTSBURGH: Montreal took sole the Panthers to overcome two-goal position of third place in the NHL deficits. Eastern Conference with a 6-5 shootout victory over conference- Red Wings 6, Senators 1 leading Pittsburgh on Thursday, Detroit Red Wings winger Johan with David Desharnais scoring the Franzen scored three times to lead lone goal in the shootout. The his team to a 6-1 victory over the Canadiens moved two points clear Ottawa Senators. of divisional rivals Toronto and Franzen, who missed 27 games Tampa Bay, which both lost. due to concussion, completed his hat trick by the 3:49 mark of the sec- Rangers 2, Blackhawks 1 ond period, giving him 12 goals on The New York Rangers shut the season. Center Riley Sheahan, down the NHL’s most explosive winger Tomas Jurco and center team with a 2-1 victory over the Tomas Tartar also scored for Detroit. Chicago Blackhawks. Center Derick Brassard and left Predators 3, Lightning 2 wing Rick Nash scored for New York, The Nashville Predators fell while Chicago center Peter Regin behind 2-0 midway through the first scored his third goal of the season period but got two second-period with 12 seconds left in the game. power-play goals and another on a third-period man-advantage in a 3-2 Devils 5, Blue Jackets 2 victory over the Tampa Bay Center Adam Henrique scored Lightning. twice as the New Jersey Devils used Nashville (26-24-10) center Craig an early three-goal barrage to Smith and defenseman Roman Josi defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets 5- scored in the second period and 2. right winger Patric Hornqvist got Left wingers Ryane Clowe and the winner with 6:04 remaining. Patrik Elias and right winger Jaromir Right winger Martin St. Louis Jagr added goals for the Devils. scored twice for the Lightning. Right winger Marian Gaborik and left winger Artem Anisimov scored Jets 3, Coyotes 2 (shootout) for the Blue Jackets. The Devils Center Olli Jokinen’s shootout scored three goals in 2:45 of the first goal lifted the Winnipeg Jets to a 3-2 period to jump to a 3-0 lead. victory over the Phoenix Coyotes. Jets’ right winger Devin Islanders 5, Maple Leafs 4 (OT) Setoguchi and Coyotes center Defenseman Lubomir Visnovsky Antoine Vermette traded goals in scored with 3:05 left in overtime to the shootout before Jokinen deked cap a comeback 5-4 win by the New goalie Mike Smith for the eventual CALGARY: Kevin Westgarth (L) of the Calgary Flames pushes Dustin Brown of the Los Angeles York Islanders over the Toronto winner. Maple Leafs. Visnovsky picked up a Winnipeg goalie Ondrej Pavelec Kings away from the puck during the first period of their NHL hockey game at the Scotiabank loose puck and fired it past Toronto stopped center Mike Ribeiro on the Saddledome in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. —AFP goaltender Jonathan Bernier to end final shot to give his side the win. a 22-minute period in which six goals were scored. Stars 4, Hurricanes 1 NHL results/standings Center Anders Lee, who was Dallas Stars head coach Lindy recalled from AHL Bridgeport earlier Ruff’s fears that his club might be New Jersey 5, Columbus 2; NY Islanders 5, Toronto 4 (OT); NY Rangers 2, Chicago 1; San Jose 7, Philadelphia 3; this week to replace the injured rusty after the 19-day Olympic break Montreal 6, Pittsburgh 5 (SO); Detroit 6, Ottawa 1; Washington 5, Florida 4; Nashville 3, Tampa Bay 2; Winnipeg John Taveras, scored a two game- were allayed as Dallas jumped to an 3, Phoenix 2 (So); Dallas 4, Carolina 1; Minnesota 3, Edmonton 0. tying goals in the third period. early 2-0 lead and cruised to a 4-1 Right winger Michael Grabner victory over the Carolina Hurricanes. Western Conference Eastern Conference scored two short-handed goals on Stars center and captain Jamie Pacific Division Atlantic Division Boston 37 16 5 180 130 79 the same power play in the first Benn contributed a goal and two W L OTL GF GA PTS period for the Islanders. assists and goalie Kari Lehtonen Montreal 33 21 7 155 149 73 Anaheim 41 14 5 196 147 87 made 29 saves for Dallas. Tampa Bay 33 21 5 170 148 71 Sharks 7, Flyers 3 San Jose 38 16 6 182 145 82 Toronto 32 22 7 182 187 71 Center Joe Pavelski scored a hat Wild 3, Oilers 0 Los Angeles 33 22 6 147 132 72 Detroit 28 20 12 159 165 68 trick while left wing Raffi Torres and Mikael Granlund, stephane Phoenix 27 21 11 165 172 65 Ottawa 26 23 11 170 197 63 center Logan Couture both scored Veilleux and Dany Heatley all scored Florida 22 30 7 143 188 51 two goals as the San Jose Sharks goals in the first, second and third Vancouver 28 24 9 147 160 65 Buffalo 17 34 8 118 178 42 beat the Philadelphia Flyers 7-3. periods as the Minnesota Wild Calgary 22 30 7 137 181 51 Defenseman Andrej Meszaros, cen- secured a 3-0 victory over the Edmonton 20 34 7 153 202 47 Metropolitan Division ter Brayden Schenn and right wing Edmonton Oilers. Wild goaltender Pittsburgh 40 15 4 191 144 84 Matt Read scored for the Flyers. Darcy Kuemper picked up the NY Rangers 33 24 3 157 147 69 Central Division shutout, stopping 21 shots. Philadelphia 30 24 6 165 174 66 Capitals 5, Panthers 4 St. Louis 39 13 6 196 136 84 Washington 28 23 9 176 179 65 Washington captain Alex Kings 2, Flames 0 Chicago 35 12 14 208 165 84 Columbus 29 25 5 172 166 63 Ovechkin scored the go-ahead goal Los Angeles Kings goalie Colorado 37 17 5 178 159 79 New Jersey 25 22 13 140 148 63 with 4:17 remaining to give the Jonathan Quick delivered a 25- Minnesota 32 21 7 148 147 71 Carolina 26 24 9 147 165 61 Capitals a 5-4 victory over the save shutout to lead the Kings to a NY Islanders 23 30 8 169 204 54 Florida Panthers. 2-0 victory over the Calgary Dallas 28 21 10 168 165 66 Note: Overtime losses (OTL) are worth one point in It was Ovechkin’s 41st goal of the Flames. Left wingers Dustin Brown Winnipeg 29 26 6 171 177 64 the standings and are not included in the loss col- season and third point of the game and Dwight King scored for the Nashville 26 24 10 149 18262 umn (L). for Washington, who twice allowed Kings. —Reuters SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Villeneuve returning to Indy 500

NEW YORK: Former Formula One not started an IndyCar race since. ing. So that got me going again.” style IndyCars and the aggressive rac- world champion Jacques Villeneuve “We started talking not long ago, The Quebec native left for F1 after ing style got him itching to return. is taking a crack at winning another actually a few weeks ago,” said the his triumphant 1995 season and com- “When I started seeing that last Indianapolis 500 by joining Schmidt Canadian of the May 25 race. “It all peted from 1996 through 2006, win- year, I started getting excited again, Peterson Motorsports to race in the went fast. “The discussions happened ning the world championship in just because the racing was amaz- famed event he won in 1995, the at the right time because I’d been 1997. Villeneuve moved to stock cars ing, the cars looked fast and aggres- team announced. watching the IndyCars last year, and in 2007 and has run in a variety of sive, it looked hard on the drivers, Villeneuve, 42, left the circuit after it looked extremely exciting with the series including NASCAR’s Sprint Cup, and the battles were fierce, which is winning his first Indy 500 and the new cars, to the point where I was Nationwide and Le Mans as well as all what I love about racing,” he CART championship that year and has angry and jealous that I wasn’t rac- sports cars. Villeneuve said the new- said. — Reuters Masked James leads Heat past Knicks

MIAMI: Miami’s LeBron James, clad in a face- by 13 games, rallied from a six-point deficit in covering black mask to protect a broken nose, the third quarter as forward Paul George scored 31 points to lead the Heat to a 108-82 added 18 points and a game-high six assists. blowout win over New York on Thursday. Guard Brandon Knight led the Bucks with 23 The Heat maintained a yawning 12-1/2 points. game lead in the Southeast Division ahead of Washington, which had a triple-overtime road Wizards 134, Raptors 129 (3 OT) win against Atlantic Division leader Toronto. Guard John Wall scored 31 points while James was clearly unencumbered by the center Marcin Gortat also scored 31 points mask, hitting 13 of 19 shots and topping 30 and added 12 rebounds as the Washington points for the fifth consecutive game. Wizards defeated the Toronto Raptors 134- Dwyane Wade added 23, shooting 10 of 13 129 in triple overtime. from the field, for the Heat, which outscored Wall, who scored eight of his points in New York 23-3 over the final 7:02 of the third overtime, made a driving layup in the final and won its sixth straight game. Miami shot minute of the third extra period to give the 61 percent, while the Knicks shot 37 percent. Wizards a four-point lead. Carmelo Anthony scored 29 points for Guard DeMar DeRozan led the Raptors New York, but none in the final 21:38. The with 34 points. Knicks won only two games in February. Washington’s Trevor Ariza scored the go- Nets 112, Nuggets 89 ahead basket on a fast-break layup with 1:20 Forward Paul Pierce scored 18 points left in the third overtime to secure a 134-129 before sitting out the entire fourth quarter as win at Toronto.Marcin Gortat fouled out with the Brooklyn Nets raced out to a big lead ear- 31 points and 12 rebounds for the Wizards, ly and never relented in a 112-89 win over the who have won five straight. Denver Nuggets. DeMar DeRozan scored 34 points in 58 Guard Marcus Thornton scored 10 points minutes for Toronto. In the day’s other in his second game since joining Brooklyn at games, league-leading Indiana beat the trade deadline last week. Milwaukee 101-96, with Roy Hibbert scoring The Nets are 27-29 and within reach of 24 points and adding 12 rebounds, while Toronto for first place in the Atlantic Division. Brooklyn won 112-89 over Denver, to record The Nets embarrassed the now-woeful their first win in Colorado for seven years. Nuggets despite solid games from forward Kenneth Faried (14 points, eight rebounds) Pacers 101, Bucks 96 and guard Randy Foye (15 points). Center Roy Hibbert scored a game-high 24 Their efforts were not nearly enough to points and had 12 rebounds to power the overcome Denver’s worst period of the sea- Pacers to a hard-fought 101-96 win over the son. The Nuggets were just 3-for-18 from the Milwaukee Bucks. field in the first quarter and had as many The Pacers, who lead the Central Division points as turnovers, eight. — Agencies

NBA results/standings

Indiana 101, Milwaukee 96; Washington 134, Toronto 129 (OT); Miami 108, NY Knicks 82; Brooklyn 112, Denver 89. Eastern Conference Western conference Atlantic Division Northwest division W L PCT GB Oklahoma City 43 15 .741 - Toronto 32 26 .552 - Portland 40 18 .690 3 Brooklyn 27 29 .482 4 Minnesota 28 29 .491 14.5 NY Knicks 21 37 .362 11 Denver 25 32 .439 17.5 Boston 20 39 .339 12.5 Utah 21 36 .368 21.5 Philadelphia 15 43 .259 17 Pacific Division Central Division LA Clippers 40 20 .667 - Indiana 44 13 .772 - Golden State 35 23 .603 4 Chicago 31 26 .544 13 Phoenix 33 24 .579 5.5 Detroit 23 35 .397 21.5 Cleveland 23 36 .390 22 Sacramento 20 37 .351 18.5 Milwaukee 11 46 .193 33 LA Lakers 19 39 .328 20 Southeast Division Southwest Division Miami 41 14 .745 - San Antonio 41 16 .719 - Washington 30 28 .517 12.5 Houston 39 19 .672 2.5 Charlotte 27 30 .474 15 Dallas 36 23 .610 6 MIAMI: Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) prepares to shoot over New York Atlanta 26 31 .456 16 Memphis 32 24 .571 8.5 Knicks point guard Pablo Prigioni (9) during the second half of an NBA basketball game Orlando 18 42 .300 2.5 New Orleans 23 34 .404 18 in Miami, Thursday. The Heat won 108-82. — AP SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Tan flays ‘racist’ media, says Cardiff in safe hands

LONDON: Controversial Cardiff City owner or goal difference. time is right, I will tell my story. Sometimes the Vincent Tan has criticised “a little bit racist” British “Without me, Cardiff would have gone bust. British press is maybe a little bit racist.” media for projecting him as a villain and ruled out Because of my investment, we got promoted,” Tan said Mackay had been lucky to land the the possibility of the Premier League club chang- Tan said in an interview with BBC Sport yesterday. job at Cardiff in July 2011 and felt he should have ing its team colours back to blue. I am now more involved and under my leadership been more hands-on earlier. The 62-year-old Malaysian businessman the club will be in good shape. “Earlier on I was generous enough to give our helped finance the team into the top tier of “Some of my family members really want me football management too much authority and English soccer for the first time in half a century to leave. They think it’s not worth it. They think they went berserk. They went and did bad busi- this season before his leadership style came no-one is grateful. But you have to be patient, ness. That was a mistake. under increasingly scrutiny. accept the criticism and sometimes the insults.” “But now I’m involved, I know the value and I Tan, who once operated Malaysia’s most prof- study. Every business I don’t know, if I spend itable lottery and gambling business, changed No villain enough time - a couple of months - I will know a the club colours from its traditional blue to red at Often seen wearing dark glasses and gloves at lot. I know quite a lot about football now. I know the start of the 2012-13 season and sacked popu- Cardiff games, Tan said he was not the villain he the value of players and we won’t do stupid lar manager Malky Mackay last December to fur- was made out to be. things.” ther irk the fans. “I wear sunglasses because of the glare of the Tan said he had abandoned plans to list Criticism of his leadership approach has spotlights,” he said. “I wear gloves because it is Cardiff on the Singapore stock exchange and only grown but the Malaysian made it clear very cold in the UK. Frankly, sometimes I think hoped new manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer that he was not stepping down despite the they are nuts making all these comments. would guide the team out of relegation zone side struggling down in 19th place and three “The British press is unfair... maybe because we despite winning just one of their last 11 league points adrift of safety with a significantly inferi- didn’t tell our side of the story that well. When the games. —Reuters Drogba life story Diego Costa set to make told in cartoon form PARIS: Didier Drogba walked at six months, left home at five and fell Spain debut against Italy in love with the woman who was to become his wife at the tender age of 17. Those are some of the landmark events covered in an account of the MADRID: Atletico Madrid striker Ivorian footballer’s extraordinary life about to be published in cartoon Diego Costa could make his debut for form in France. Spain after being named in Vicente Editions are also planned del Bosque’s 22-man squad for the for Britain, where Drogba is world champions’ friendly at home to still idolised by supporters of Italy on March 5. his former club Chelsea; Costa completed the nationalisa- Brazil, where he is due to tion process that allowed him to play in the World Cup later switch allegiances from Brazil to Spain this year, and Turkey, where in time for La Roja’s friendlies against he currently stars for Equatorial Guinea and South Africa Galatasaray. last November, but was forced to miss Entitled “From Tito to both games due to injury. Drogba”, the album traces PARIS: A young man reads a com- He is now expected to make his the 35-year-old’s journey ic book in Paris entitled “Didier bow on home soil at the Vicente from modest roots in Drogba”. —AFP Calderon after scoring 27 times in all Abidjan to the summit of competitions this season. “His is a sin- world football. The Tito in the title refers to his childhood nickname. gular case, he was born in Brazil but It was first published in 2012 in Ivory Coast, where Drogba is revered he has formed into a footballer in both as a lynchpin of the national team, the Elephants, and a symbol of Spain and has shown in his club that national unity-thanks to his detour into peacemaking diplomacy when he deserves to come into the squad, the country was teetering on the brink of civil war in 2006. that is why we have called him up.” Born on March 11, 1978, Drogba first moved to France at the age of Gerard Pique is the only significant five to live with his uncle, Michel Goba, a professional footballer, his par- absentee through injury from the final ents calculating that it would give him a better chance in life. match Spain will play before Del He has often spoken of how difficult he found his childhood years, the Bosque names his squad to defend FLORENCE: Fiorentina’s David Pizarro, left, vies for the ball with long spells spent apart from his parents and the upheaval of moving the World Cup in Brazil later this year. Esbjerg’s Martin Bergvold during an Europa League, round of 32, sec- around as his uncle regularly changed clubs. His parents finally joined There was disappointment for ond leg match between Fiorentina and Esbjerg at the Artemio Franchi him in France when he was 13 and the family settled in the Paris suburbs, David Villa, Fernando Torres and Juan stadium in Florence, Italy, Thursday. —AP where Drogba began what was to be an illustrious career at Levallois SC. Mata as all three were left out. However, Del Bosque insisted that of the 2012 European Championsip Spain squad ‘Too perfect? He’s like that’ there was still plenty of time for those final, which Spain won 4-0. Goalkeepers: Iker Casillas (Real “The book goes into a lot of detail,” Drogba recently told sports daily left out of the squad to make their However, both sides played out a Madrid), Victor Valdes (Barcelona), L’Equipe. “It is a fun way to learn lots of things about me and to show case for a World Cup berth between far more competitive clash in the Pepe Reina (Napoli/ITA) young people that, if they do what I did, they can achieve their objec- now and the end of the season. semi-finals of last year’s Defenders: Sergio Ramos (Real tives.” “This is a list exclusively for the Confederations Cup semi-final with Madrid), Jordi Alba (Barcelona), Javi “The most important thing is to show you can exceed your dreams. game against Italy. We have practical- Spain only progressing on penalties Martinez (Bayern Munich/GER), Cesar For me football has become my job, my way of making a living, and that ly three months of the season in front after a 0-0 draw after 120 minutes. Azpilicueta (Chelsea/ENG), Juanfran in turn has allowed me to meet many famous people, to be a UNICEF of us which could ratify those in this And the former Real Madrid boss is Torres (Atletico Madrid), Raul Albiol ambassador.” list or include others.” Bayern expecting another stiff test as prepa- (Napoli/ITA) The man responsible for the album is Gabin Bao, a 36-year-old Ivorian Munich’s Thiago Alcantara is reward- ration for a demanding start to their Midfielders: Xavi Hernandez, who has spent years on the project, finally convincing the player’s advi- ed for his impressive form for the World Cup campaign as they face Sergio Busquets, Andres Iniesta, sors it was a good idea. Bundesliga champions with a call-up against Holland and Chile in their first Cesc Fabregas (all Barcelona), Xabi “I met him several times after we did the deal and he really liked the to the senior squad for the first time two games in Brazil. Alonso (Real Madrid), David Silva idea of sending a message to young Africans,” Bao told AFP. this season. “Italy is one of the best teams in (Manchester City/ENG), Thiago Bao’s script for the book flirts with caricature at times in its emphasis the world. They have a base of Alcantara (Bayern Munich/GER), Competivive clash on the role of hard work in Drogba’s ascent. Juventus players and we have had Koke (Atletico Madrid), Santi Cazorla “Some people say I’ve made him too perfect. But he is like that,” Bao Torres’ Chelsea teammate Cesar tough meetings with them. (Arsenal/ENG) said. “He is very careful about his image because he has a lot of responsi- Azpilicueta is also included for the “The Confederations Cup game Forwards: Pedro Rodriguez bility on his shoulders.” Part of the proceeds from the book sales will go to first time since the Confederations was agonising and the final of the (Barcelona), Jesus Navas, Alvaro the Didier Drogba Foundation, which finances health and education proj- Cup ahead of Real Madrid’s Alvaro Euros was one of the best games we Negredo (both Manchester City/ENG), ects in Africa. —AFP Arbeloa. The match will be a rematch have played.” Diego Costa (Atletico Madrid). —AFP SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014

Anelka handed five-match ban for ‘quenelle’ salute

LONDON: West Bromwich Albion forward Nicolas FA of his decision not to appeal. West Brom, however, intended to express or promote anti-Semitism by his Anelka has been banned for five matches and fined have suspended the player immediately until the con- use of the quenelle”. 80,000 pounds ($133,400) for making an alleged anti- clusion of the governing body’s disciplinary process Anelka had denied he was anti-Semitic or racist and Semitic gesture in a match in December, the Football and will carry out their own internal investigation, they claimed the gesture, which has been described as an Association said on Thursday. said in a statement. inverted Nazi salute, was a tribute to his French come- The Frenchman, who made a “quenelle” salute after “The club cannot ignore the offence that his actions dian friend Dieudonne M’Bala M’Bala who invented it. scoring in a 3-3 draw against West Ham United on Dec. have caused, particularly to the Jewish community, nor West Brom said they were now awaiting the written 28, has also been ordered to complete a compulsory the potential damage to the club’s reputation,” they reasons for the panel’s decision, from which time education course. “An Independent Regulatory added. The FA found Anelka guilty of making a gesture Anelka has seven days to decide whether to appeal. Commission has found an aggravated breach of FA that “was abusive and/or indecent and/or insulting The gesture has already had repercussions for the Rule E3 against Nicolas Anelka proven and has issued a and/or improper.” They also found it to be an “aggra- club. Zoopla, a property market search engine co- five-match suspension and a fine of 80,000 pounds, vated breach” in that it included “a reference to ethnic owned by Jewish businessman Alex Chesterman, has pending appeal,” the FA said in a statement. origin and/or race and/or religion or belief.” said it would not renew its three million pounds ($4.93 The punishment will not be implemented until the The FA added in their statement that they “did not million) West Brom shirt sponsorship deal after this sea- outcome of any appeal or until the player informs the find that Nicolas Anelka is an anti-Semite or that he son because of Anelka’s actions. — Reuters Spurs restore English Matches on TV pride in Europa league (Local Timings) English Premier League LONDON: Emmanuel Adebayor scored when his Dnipro team took the lead on the Two second-half headers from defender Stoke City v Arsenal 18:00 twice in four minutes as Tottenham Hotspur night through Zozulya who headed in Eliaquim Mangala made it 2-2 and levelled overturned a two-goal aggregate deficit to unmarked early in the second half. the tie 4-4 on aggregate. beIN SPORTS 11 HD beat 10-man Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk 3-2 Joy soon turned to despair for the Eintracht regained the advantage beIN SPORTS 1 HD over two legs on Thursday to reach the last Spanish coach, who led Tottenham to their through Meier but Ghilas latched on to a 16 of the Europa League. last trophy when they won the English loose ball when keeper Kevin Trapp could Southampton v Liverpool 20:30 only parry a shot and slid the ball into the It was a painful return to London for League Cup in 2008, as Eriksen scored with beIN SPORTS 1 HD Tottenham’s former coach Juande Ramos a free kick and Zozulya saw red for appear- empty net to give the visitors an away-goal whose side took the lead on the night ing to head-butt defender Jan Vertonghen. victory. beIN SPORTS 11 HD through Roman Zozulya. Tottenham were then firmly in com- Ludogorets had won the first leg against Forward Zozulya was then sent off in the mand and Adebayor converted an Eriksen Lazio 1-0 but were quickly behind in the Italian Calcio League 62nd minute, six minutes after Christian cross from close range on 65 minutes before return game when Balde Diao Keita bun- AS Roma v Internazionale 22:45 dled the ball into the net after a minute and Eriksen had levelled, and Adebayor grabbed grabbing his second after collecting a long- beIN SPORTS 3 HD his quickfire double to give twice UEFA Cup ball and finishing with a clever flick. Brayan Perea converted an Ogenyi Onazi winners Spurs a 3-1 second-leg victory. The Togo striker now has 11 goals from pass to make it 2-0 on the night early in the Nabil Ghilas, of twice former champions his last 15 games, making it harder to see second half. Spanish League Primera Porto, netted in the 86th minute to secure a why he was left out earlier in the season Goals from Roman Bezjak and Hristo Malaga v Valladolid 18:00 Zlatinski made it 2-2 but the Italians again 3-3 draw at Eintracht Frankfurt, the under former manager Andre-Villas Boas beIN SPORTS 2 HD Portuguese side going through on away before being brought back into the fold by looked set to advance when Miroslav Klose beIN SPORTS 13 HD goals after the tie ended 5-5 on aggregate. new boss Tim Sherwood. “I’m very glad to poked in a rebound with eight minutes Napoli, with coach Rafa Benitez attempt- be back scoring goals and happy with my remaining. Levante v Osasuna 20:00 ing to win back-to-back Europa Leagues team,” Adebayor told ITV Sport. Quixada then pounced on a long pass to beIN SPORTS 6 HD after picking up the trophy with Chelsea last I have to keep focused and keep going. I flick the ball over the on-rushing Lazio keep- Getafe v Espanyol 22:00 er and put the hosts into the last 16. season, and Ludogorets also came out on want to say thank you to the new manager beIN SPORTS 2 HD top in thrilling second-leg matches. who came in and gave me my stage to per- Napoli scored early through Lorenzo beIN SPORTS 12 HD The Serie A team scored two late goals form.” Insigne’s dinked finish but Swansea to beat Swansea City 3-1 on the night and equalised through Jonathan de Guzman. beIN SPORTS 14 HD on aggregate while Bulgarians Ludogorets Meier double Gonzalo Higuain’s predatory instincts then ousted Lazio after an 88th-minute goal from Porto looked to be heading out when came to Benitez’s rescue as the Argentine German Bundesliga swivelled and volleyed home with 12 min- Juninho Quixada gave them a 3-3 home they trailed 2-0 in Frankfurt, Stefan Aigner FC Augsburg v Hannover 17:30 draw and a 4-3 win overall. prodding the German side ahead from close utes remaining before Napoli keeper Jose Ramos looked on course for revenge range and Alexander Meier converting a Reina pulled off a remarkable reflex save Dubai Sports over the club that sacked him five years ago cross to double the lead. from Dwight Tiendalli’s header. Dortmund v Nuremberg 17:30 Gokhan Inler netted deep into injury Dubai Sports time to take the tie out of Swansea’s reach. Serie A champions Juventus comfortably Bayer 04 v Mainz 05 17:30 beat Trabzonspor 2-0 in Turkey to progress Dubai Sports after winning by the same scoreline in Italy Braunschweig v Borussia 17:30 last week while Benfica scored three goals Dubai Sports in nine second-half minutes to beat PAOK Bremen v Hamburger 17:30 Salonika 3-0 on the night, 4-0 overall. Salzburg, who won all six group matches Dubai Sprots earlier in the competition, thrashed Ajax Bayern Munich v Schalke 10:30 Amsterdam 6-1 on aggregate after winning Dubai Sports 3-1 in Austria in the second leg. Spanish club Real Betis secured a 3-1 aggregate victory over Russians Rubin Kazan, winning 2-0 away with Nono and French League Ruben Castro on target. Saint Etienne v Monaco 19:00 Sevilla beat Slovenians Maribor 2-1 with beIN SPORTS 5 HD goals from Jose Antonio Reyes and Kevin Stade Reims v Valenciennes 22:00 Gameiro to go through 4-3 on aggregate while Viktoria Plzen defeated Shakhtar beIN SPORTS 8 HD Stade Rennes v Guingamp 22:00 LONDON: Dnipro’s Ukrainian midfielder Yevhen Cheberyachko (R) looks on as Donetsk 2-1 to advance 3-2 overall. Alexandre Tottenham Hotspur’s Togolese striker Emmanuel Adebayor (2nd L) scores Lacazette scored in the 80th minute for beIN SPORTS 9 HD their second goal during the UEFA Europa League round of 32, 2nd leg, foot- Olympique Lyon against Chernomorets Sochaux v Girondins 22:00 Odessa to progress 1-0 on aggregate and ball match between Tottenham Hotspur and FC Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk at beIN SPORTS 10 HD White Hart Lane in north London on Thursday. Adebayor scored twice as Fiorentina drew 1-1 at home to Esbjerg but went through 4-2 overall. — Reuters Tottenham won the game 3-1, (3-2 on aggregate). — AFP SPORTS SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 Sangakkara steers Sri Lanka to dramatic win over India

FATULLAH: Kumar Sangakkara hit a brilliant Lakmal for the match, justified his selection 103 as Sri Lanka survived anxious moments to with four for 60, including the key scalps of overcome India by two wickets in a thrilling Dhawan and stand-in captain Virat Kohli. last-over finish yesterday, securing their sec- Off-spinner Senanayake finished with his ond win in the Asia Cup. best one-day figures of three for 41 as the The victory was set up by spinners Ajantha Indians struggled against the turning ball on Mendis and Sachithra Senanayake, who the slow wicket. shared seven wickets to restrict the reigning Kohli, leading India in the absence of the world champions to 264-9 in the day-night injured Mahendra Singh Dhoni, put on 97 for match in Fatullah. the second wicket with Dhawan after Rohit But Sri Lanka lost wickets at regular inter- Sharma had been trapped leg-before by vals and were reduced to 216-7 in the 44th Senanayake for 13. over when Thisara Perera helped Sangakkara Kusal Perera and Lahiru Thirimanne gave add 42 crucial runs for the eighth wicket. Sri Lanka a flying start with a 80-run partner- Left-handed Sangakkara, who hit 12 ship for the first wicket by the 18th over. boundaries and a six in his 18th one-day cen- Off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin tury, fell in the penultimate over when just removed both openers, trapping Thirimanne seven runs were needed for victory. But leg-before for 38 and then having Kusal Mendis and Perera saw Sri Lanka through Perera caught behind for 64. with four deliveries to spare in a nail-biting India bounced back strongly when left- finish, giving their team a second win after arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja dismissed SCOREBOARD they beat Pakistan in the tournament opener. Mahela Jayawardene and Dinesh Chandimal India, who won against Bangladesh, must with consecutive deliveries to reduce Sri FATULLAH, Bangladesh: Full scoreboard of the Asia Cup one-day tournament defeat arch-rivals Pakistan in Dhaka on Lanka to 148-4 in the 32nd over. between India and Sri Lanka in Fatullah yesterday: Sunday to stay in contention for a place in the Seamer Mohammad Shami, who conceded India: Sri Lanka: final. Opener Shikhar Dhawan scored 94 as 42 runs in his first six overs, returned for a India, sent in to bat, moved to 175-2 in 35 spell and trapped skipper Angelo Mathews R. Sharma lbw b Senanayake 13 K. Perera c Karthik b Ashwin 64 overs before losing five wickets for 40 runs to leg-before with his second ball. Shami also S. Dhawan b Mendis 94 L. Thirimanne lbw b Ashwin 38 slide to 215-7. had Senanayake caught at mid-wicket and V. Kohli b Mendis 48 Big hitting by the lower order, including Jadeja had Chaturanga de Silva leg-before as K. Sangakkara c Ashwin b Shami 103 A. Rahane c Thirimanne b Senanayake 22 two sixes by last man Mohammed Shami off Sri Lanka slumped to 216-7. M. Jayawardene c Sharma b Jadeja 9 Mendis, lifted India past the 250-run mark. Afghanistan will take on hosts Bangladesh A. Rayudu c K. Perera b de Silva 18 D. Chandimal b Jadeja 0 Mendis, who replaced seamer Suranga in the next match in Fatullah today. —AFP D. Karthik c de Silva b Mendis 4 A. Mathews lbw b Shami 6 R. Jadeja not out 22 S. Binny lbw b Senanayake 0 S. Senanayake c Sharma b Shami 12 R. Ashwin b Malinga 18 C. de Silva lbw b Jadeja 9 B. Kumar st Sangakkara b Mendis 0 T. Perera not out 11 Mohammad Shami not out 14 A. Mendis not out 5 Extras: (b4 lb1, w6) 11 Extras: (lb7, w1) 8 Total (for nine wickets, 50 overs) 264 Total (for eight wickets, 49.2 overs) 265 Fall of wickets: 1-33 (Sharma), 2-130 Fall of wickets: 1-80 (Thirimanne), 2-134 (Kohli), 3-175 (Rahane), 4-196 (Dhawan), (K. Perera), 3-148 (Jayawardene), 4-148 5-200 (Karthik), 6-214 (Rayudu), 7-215 (Chandimal), 5-165 (Mathews), 6-183 (Binny), 8-245 (Ashwin), 9-247 (Kumar). (Senanayake), 7-216 (de Silva), 8-258 Bowling: Malinga 10-0-58-1 (w1), (Sangakkara). Mathews 3.2-1-9-0, Senanayake 10-0-41- 3, T. Perera 6.4-0-40-0, Mendis 10-0-60-4 Bowling: Kumar 9.2-1-45-0, Shami 10-0- (w4), de Silva 10-0-51-1 (w1). 81-3, Ashwin 10-0-42-2, Binny 4-0-22-0, FATULLAH: Sri Lankan batsman Kumar Sangakkara plays a shot as Indian wick- (Note: Mathews was injured after bowling Jadeja 10-1-30-3 (w1), Rayadu 1-0-9-0, etkeeper Dinesh Karthik looks on during the fourth match of the Asia Cup one- two balls of his fourth over. Sharma 5-0-29-0. day cricket tournament between India and Sri Lanka at the Khan Shaheb Osman Thisara Perera completed the over) Sri Lanka won by two wickets. Ali Stadium in Fatullah, on the outskirts of Dhaka yesterday. —AFP

Warne factor big as Australia seek answers

CAPE TOWN: Shane Warne’s vast test Clarke believes Warne’s cricketing that have not spent a lot of time with and knows the game very well.” Clarke experience has been well utilised by brain and infectious personality will him, they have had their eyes opened. admits he is at a loss to explain why his the Australian squad in the lead-up to help lift the squad after the demoralis- “The spinners really enjoyed the bowlers failed to get the same reverse- the series-deciding third test against ing 231-run loss in the second test in work he did with them yesterday swing as South Africa in the second South Africa at Newlands in Cape Port Elizabeth last Sunday. (Thursday). He will do whatever it takes test and expects it to be a factor again Town today. “It’s been fantastic having him to get the players to bring the best out in Cape Town. Captain Michael Clarke says the vet- around and great for me personally,” of themselves. After claiming a 281-run win in the eran of 145 test matches and arguably Clarke told reporters on Friday. “I have “I have said for a long time he is first test, Australia were on track for suc- the greatest leg-spinner of all time has a wonderful relationship with Warney probably the best captain I have cess in the second before paceman Dale played a leading role in mentoring the and it’s always nice to have him played under and his knowledge is like Steyn took advantage of the conditions team in his role as a consultant. around, especially for those players no other, He played 145 test matches to fire his side to victory. —Reuters Spurs restore English pride in Europa league SATURDAY, MARCH 1, 2014 SATURDAY, SportsSports 46

DUBAI: Tomas Berdych of the Czech Republic serves the ball to Philipp Kohlschreiber of Germany during a semi final match of the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, yesterday. — AP Berdych, Federer reach Dubai final

DUBAI: World number six Tomas Berdych Kohlschreiber, the seventh-seeded German He had only ever prevailed once in their Another break, and the first set, followed continued his new-found run of good form was his 16th win in 17 matches. eight matches. The plan involved dictating for Berdych, and in the second he became when he reached the final of the Dubai Equally crucially Berdych was able to the patterns more, and trying to prevent even more fluent and relaxed. It took a while Open for the second successive year. impose breaks of serve when it mattered Berdych from pushing him around. For to finish the job though. Roger Federer battled back from a a set most, at the end of each set, leaving his flu- almost a set, with his well-constructed Kohlschreiber again began to play more down to beat top-seeded Novak Djokovic 3- ent but lighter-weight opponent with no orthodoxies, Kohlschreiber made it work enterprisingly, and hung on well when he 6, 6-3, 6-2 to reach the Dubai Open final yes- chance to repair the damage. effectively. went break point down in the fourth game, terday. The Swiss five-time champion took “It feels absolutely great,” he said “I am He was aided by Berdych’s laboured start, averting the danger with a rasping first his career head-to-head record over pleased with today because it was a really double-faulting on the third point, and serve. But again, in the big moments, he fal- Djokovic to 17-15. tough win. It’s a pleasure getting to the final dropping his first service game. Nevertheless tered. Serving to save the match at 5-6, he Yesterday’s win, built on a double break again here, a tournament which has such a the German consolidated that break four twice allowed Berdych to attack second in the final set, stopped a run of three suc- strong field. “My rhythm is much better than times smartly. serves, and twice drove forehands long, on cessive losses against the Serb. Fourth-seed- it was. It is important for me to be hitting the Then, in trying to close out the set, his the second occasion on match point. ed Federer will face Czech third seed Tomas ball nicely and then my game really works.” resolve appeared to waver. Three times Berdych was due to play the winner of Berdych in today’s final. Kohlschreiber knew well the power Kohlschreiber allowed Berdych to get big two legends in the other semi-final, which Berdych had not won an ATP Tour title for Berdych can generate when allowed to, and blows into the rally, and after the Czech had was between Novak Djokovic, the titlehold- 16 months until he won Rotterdam this volunteered before the match that he would broken back for 5-5 he began to strike the er, and Roger Federer, who holds a record month, but the 7-5, 7-5 victory over Philipp aim to do something different to stop that. ball much more freely. five titles here. — Agencies (See Page 41)