TheWeek

AROUND THE WORLD WITH A CAMERA

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Santhosh George Kulangara, who was in Muscat to film a travelogue, will be among the first space tourists aboard a Virgin Galactic spacecraft Following a thorough selection procedure and intensive training, Santhosh is now awaiting a boarding call for his space odyssey on Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic spacecraft For the last 12 years, he has been making one-man travelogues for television.

AROUND THE WORLD WITH A CAMERA

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

AROUND THE WORLD WITH A CAMERA COVER STORY CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Tridwip K Das theweek@apexstuff.com When Santhosh George Kulangara was a little lad growing up in a village in Kerala, India, his father conducted an annual tour of his- torical cities in a neighbouring state. Kulangara Sr, principal of an arts college, put up a big board at the entrance of the college inform- ing students about the

Fabulous Oman

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sometimes expatriates find the `otherness' of living in a foreign country a bit much and a touch of negativity creeps in when we all too often forget the many good experiences we have had here. Often it's brought on by the occasional frustration involved in dealing with another culture and other ways of doing things. But I also know a number of people who have left Oman and come back again and a

Negative film review

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

After reading last week's issue, I was disappointed by Emma Williams' article on the new movie Alice in Wonderland. “Unfortunately, this film lacks the book's charm and sense of wonder. This movie is not a remake but follows on from Alice in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass, with some of the characters kept on.“ Shouldn't the article tell people what the film is about, rather than pointing

Poor Mothers Day messages

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Each and every Wednesday, I crave TheWeek. Without it, my week is like a plain sponge cake without choco- late, cream or a cherry. But last week it disappointed me. When I came across Issue 367, I saw the Mother's Day messages and also read a few.
Then I wanted to know which mes- sages won in the contest. As I read the first message by Muhammed K V, I was shocked! A few days ago I read these sa

Defending the Park Inns nightlife

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

This is in response to Mr Vijay's comments in Issue 367 of TheWeek.
The Park Inn Hotel is definitely one of the finer hotels in Muscat. I would like you to spare a thought for the thousands of people in Muscat who eagerly await their much-needed weekend to go to such places to unwind from the hectic week that has passed with a few beverages and some good music.

Kudos to you to try and bring

Why not drop us a line?

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Email: theweek@apexstuff.com Alternatively write to us at PO Box 2616, Ruwi 112, Muscat, Oman.

Please ensure you include your name and address.
These can be withheld from publication on request. We reserve the right to edit your letters.

Opinions expressed in the letters are the writers' own and do not reflect those of TheWeek Publisher: Saleh M Talib al Zakwani, Editor-in-chief: Same

WHAT WENT WRONG - TRAGIC OUTING

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tragedy struck on March 12 when a young girl drowned in a swimming pool in Muscat, raising the issue of safety around water in the sultanate Emma Williams theweek@apexstuff.com For most people, Friday afternoons are a family day of rest. Parents and their children meet up with other family members and go to the beach for a picnic or to a swimming pool to cool off. But tragedy struck one family on

Omanoil marks retail milestone, opens three Ahlain shops

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

With a reoccurring number of 10mn customers who frequented Ahlain and convenience shops during the last year, Oman Oil Marketing Company (Omanoil) has marked a milestone in its retail operat- ions with an unprecedented number of customers at its nationwide network. The achievement coincides with Omanoil's announcement of the opening of two filling stations in Al Breik in Wilayat al Khaborah and Sa

ASaffa Poultry hosts family fun day road show in Barka

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A'Saffa Poultry attracted over 1,000 family members to a road show event held recently in Barka. The event included face painting for youngsters, giant animal characters and the chance to receive one of many prizes that were handed out to the excited youngsters, accord- ing to a press release.

Daeij al Hosni, A'Saffa's assis- tant marketing manager, was responsible for organising the event. He

BankDhofar profits up for year ending December 2009

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Eng Abdul Hafidh Salim Rajab al Aujaili, chairman of BankDhofar, recently presented the financial results of the bank for the year ended December 2009, with an 18 per cent operating profit growth.
The board of directors proposed cash dividends of 15 per cent plus a bonus share issue of 10 per cent.

The total assets showed sustained improvement from RO1,323.8mn at the end of 2008 to reach RO1

Nearly 150 traffic accidents in a week

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A total of 149 traffic accidents occurred in Oman between March 6 and 12 this month. Of these, 76 were crashes, 31 were collisions with fixed objects, 27 involved drivers losing control over their vehicles and 15 were run-overs.
These accidents resulted in the death of ten people and caused injuries to 182 others.

GCC TRAFFIC WEEK ENDS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The events and activities of the 26th Traffic Week in the GCC countries concluded recently. The event had operated under the theme, `Beware of the mistakes of others'.

The goals of Traffic Week this year included raising awareness of traffic education and road safety and encouraging road users to adhere to the rules and regulations which limit the errors committed during driving.

The Tra

Prehistoric sites in Adam

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Biubwa al Sabri, director of Excavations and Archaeological Studies, says that Oman is a treasure house of archaeological sites yet to be studied Malathy Garewal theweek@apexstuff.com To the normal resident of Oman, this country, while full of natural beauty in terms of wonderful beaches and imposing mountains, does in no way resemble a treasure house of histori- cal remains. But Biubwa al Sabri,

JEWEL OF MUSCAT REACHES KOCHI

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The vessel has docked in Kochi, where she will stay until departing for Galle, Sri Lanka, on April 10 After spending 27 days at sea, the Jewel of Muscat was given a warm welcome as she arrived in Kochi on March 15.

Oman's Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, H E Mohammed al Zarafi, was among those greeting the ship from the harbour entrance and watching as she was escorted into the port. He said

High-level delegation in Uzbekistan

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ONA A high-level Omani delegation led by H E Maqbool Ali Sultan, Minister of Commerce and Industry, is currently visiting the Central Asian country of Uzbekistan. The delega- tion visited the National Museum in Tashkent on Saturday evening.

During the visit, the minister and his delegation toured various sections of the museum, including those covering historical maps and pictures of the rule

NBO appoints new CEO

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The board of directors of National Bank of Oman (NBO) recently announced the appointment of Salaam Said Salim al Shaksy as its first Omani CEO.

Salaam al Shaksy returns to NBO after initially joining in 1994 as assistant general manager.
His career in the banking industry began in 1992 when he joined Citibank Global Consumer Business, Dubai.

His credentials include a BA degree cum lau

Nawras, Khimji Ramdas ink agreement

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Nawras recently signed an electronic recharge agreement with Khimji Ramdas to enable the distributor to start offering the added convenience of an eco-friendly payment option to customers. Tore Solberg, chief com- mercial officer, Nawras, and Jayanta G Borpujari, general manager of Khimji Ramdas Information and Communication Technology, signed the agreement.

The agreement extends a partner- shi

Sterling work

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Nicola Goodson-Wickes theweek@apexstuff.com Shabib Khamis al Hasni's workshop is out of bounds to visitors. "The process of making silver objects is a family secret," he says in his shop in Muttrah souq. They are secrets worth preserving judging by the exemplary work displayed around him seedpod-like loose beads, intricate necklaces and khanjars similar to those he has made to com- mission for t

Panorama Windows unveils new products

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Our Correspondent theweek@apexstuff.com Interiors & Buildex 2010, the annual exhibition for the building industry that facilitates the introduction of new products in the market, was held recently at Oman International Exhibition Centre. Among the exhibitors was Panorama Windows showcasing its latest technology Plasma Glass and security windows.

Salah Murtadha Sultan, chairman of the board at P

ENERGY SAVERS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

OUR CORRESPONDENT The fourth edition of the annual Earth Hour initiative that started in Australia in 2007 is set to take place on March 27 between 8.30pm and 9.30pm. The campaign calls for everyone to try and conserve energy as a way of pre- serving the environment for future generations. Participants are asked to turn off their lights and items such as televisions and computers for the hour.

BREAKDANCE COMPETITION HELD

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Serve&Knock's recent competition showcased the skills of breakdancers in Oman OUR CORRESPONDENT Sultan Khalfan al Abdali and his group Serve&Knock (S&K) recently organ- ised a breakdance competition, called Future B-Boy Battles, at Fun City in Qurum City Centre. The breakdance competition was started in 2006. “The aim of the competition is to support talented dancers and to give them a platform

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TODAY - DINOSAURS 10 MILLION YEARS OLDER THAN THOUGHT

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The discovery of a silesaur the closest relative of true dinosaurs pushes back the origin of dinosaurs CHRISTINE DELL'AMORE A new dinosaur relative found in Tanzania is the oldest known creature of its kind a discovery that pushes back the origin of dinosaurs by at least 10mn years, palaeontologists say. Dubbed Asilisaurus kongwe, the Labrador retriever-size creature was a silesaur, the cl

Zubair offers Real Deal on Mitsubishi

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Hosts jamboree for Jeep customers in Sharqiyah Sands Zubair Automotive is offering cus- tomers savings of up to 20 per cent on select Mitsubishi models over the next two months. Customers can save on certain 2009 Mitsubishi models, including the Pajero, the Pajero Sport, Lancer, Lancer EX, Grandis and Outlander models, a press release said. Off-road enthusi- asts can drive away with a new Pajero 3

Audi celebrates 30 years of Quattro

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the Audi Quattro, the first of which grabbed the public's attention at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 1980.
The birth of the first Quattro is the story of driving trials in snow and a trailblazing idea a hollow shaft in the transmission that transmits engine power to both the front and rear wheels.
With the added touch of a centre differential, th

Sayarti opens second showroom

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Pre-owned car dealer Sayarti opened its second showroom in Azaiba for luxury cars recently. This follows the success of the company's first showroom that offered individ- uals and traders quality cars at affordable prices, a press release said. The new showroom offers warranties on most of the leading luxury models in its stock, including Audi, BMW, Land Rover, VW Touareg, Lexus and Porsche.

Special offer on Nissan

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Suhail Bahwan Automobiles (SBA), importer of all Nissan vehicles into Oman, has a new offer, especially for those working for the Ministry of Education. The offer covers the entire range from Nissan sedans, 4x4s, luxury vehicles and SUVs numbering 17 models in all.
“People in the ministry have dif- ferent interests, and some may need more than the common type of car. So we thought it best t

IHE holds demonstrations for Bobcat and Hi-Force products

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

International Heavy Equipment (IHE), distributor of Bobcat prod- ucts and the Hi-Force range in Oman trading under the Zubair Automotive Group, invited interna- tional certified demonstrators from Europe to conduct exclusive product demonstrations for its customers in Oman. IHE distributes leading trucks, buses and heavy industry equipment, including Bobcat and the Hi-Force range that are used in

Volvo starts online campaign for the S60

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Safety, Scandinavian design and environmental consideration are characteristic of the Volvo brand.
With the new Volvo S60, a new dimension is now being revealed in the `The Naughty Volvo' (www.naughty.volvocars.com) onl- ine campaign. The aim is for the driving pleasure, world-class design and innovative safety to attract more customers to the Volvo brand, a press release said. Volvo Cars is pu

ANOTHER STORY - WILL BOOMERS BE ANY DIFFERENT?

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In 20 or so years, will the baby boomers respond to old age any differently from their parents, the so-called Depression generation? PAULA SPAN Raise your hand if your elderly parents issue one of the following proclamations when- ever you try to persuade them to accept some sort of assistance wearing an emergency-response pendant, say, or hiring a home care aide, or moving into assisted livin

Al Raffah Hospital conducts infertility conference

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Sixty doctors, including medical practitioners, gynaecologists and GPs, from across Oman attended a lecture on `Unexplained Infertility' at Al Raffah Hospital recently. The lec- ture was conducted by Dr C Mohamed Ashraf, an infertility spe- cialist from India and senior visiting consultant at Al Raffah Hospital.

“The incidents of infertility are on the rise due to several reasons. To tackle thi

Apollo launches first liver clinic in Oman

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Apollo Medical Centre, an associate of Apollo Hospitals Group, India, has inaugurated the first liver clinic in Oman. It was inaugurated by Dr Ghazi al Zubedi, Director-General of the Royal Hospital, in its premises. The specialist team from Apollo Hospitals Chennai will be organising the Apollo Liver Clinic and will be headed by Dr Anand Khakhar, chief liver transplant surgeon, in conjunction w

Seminar on ovulation induction held

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A scientific seminar on ovulation induction was conducted recently at the Hotel Grand Hyatt. Senthilnathan, a representative of IBSA-Oman, organised the event.

Dr Majida al Irhayim, senior consultant, gynaecology depart- ment, Royal Hospital, and head of the assisted conception unit, Muscat Private Hospital, addressed the seminar. Dr Pankaj Shrivastav, director, Conceive Hospital, UAE, was the

VIVEK OBEROI

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Bollywood actor and social activist Born September 3, 1976 VIGNETTE Vivek is the son of Bollywood actor Suresh Oberoi. He studied at Mayo College in Ajmer and then did his masters in film acting at New York University.
His big break was in Company (2002), a gangster film that led to him winning Filmfare Awards for the Best Debut and Best Supporting Actor.

Vivek is the World Health Organizati

Favourite recipe - CHICKEN IN RED CHILLI

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Ingredients 1 cup toovar (arhar) dal (washed); 1 cup uncooked rice (washed); ¼ cup French beans (chopped); ¼ cup carrots (chopped); ½ cup potatoes (cubed); ½ cup capsicums (cubed); ½ tsp turmeric powder; 3 curry leaves; 2 tbsp tamarind pulp; 2 tsp oil; Salt to taste; Powdered masala; 2 tbsp chana dal; 2 tbsp urad dal; 2 sticks cinnamon (dal chini); ½ dry coconut; 8 whole dry red chillies; 3 tbsp c

Sweet tooth

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Vivek Oberoi is self-controlled when it comes to food, generally eating healthily and also exercising, but he cannot resist sweets and chocolates Day starts with...
A bit of karela (bitter gourd) juice.
Breakfast I eat light some fruits with nuts and honey.
Lunch For lunch I eat a full balanced meal.
This usually consists of some green vegetables, curds, a glass of chhaas, some daal,

JENNIFER ANISTON TRIVIA

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A. Who was Jennifer Aniston married to in 2000?
Tom Cruise Bruce Willis Brad Pitt B. Jennifer was chosen as one of People Magazine's most beautiful people in the world in which year?

1999 2002 2000 C. She offered to be which actor's personal trainer?

Johnny Depp Burt Reynolds Matthew Perry Answers A. Brad Pitt B. 1999 C. Matthew Perry

KATE WINSLET AND SAM MENDES TO PART WAYS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The actress' second marriage has also failed According to a statement made by representatives from the couple's law firm Schillings, Kate Winslet and Sam Mendes have parted ways and are thought to have legally separated at the beginning of the year after seven years of marriage.
The Hollywood actress and director are said to have split amicably and have come to a mutual agreement.

This was W

gossip

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The co-stars of Ghost Whisperer, Jennifer Love Hewitt and Jamie Kennedy, recently ended their relationship.
The 30-year-old actress and 39-year-old comedian and actor are rumoured to have split up because Kennedy is still in contact with his ex-girlfriend, Shannon Funk.

Whose lips are these?

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Answers A. Keira Knightley B. Jamie Lee Curtis C. Val Kilmer D. Leonardo DiCaprio

Friends star may propose soon

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

David Schwimmer is reportedly about to propose to his girl- friend, Zoe Buckman, whom he first met when she was a wait- ress and served Schwimmer at his table in a club at London. The couple met back in 2007, when she was 23 and he was directing a movie in East London.
Buckman is currently working as a photographer.

The couple recently moved in together, since the Friends actor wanted to see

Sony makes Jackson deal

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Landmark recording deal means Jackson's music will carry on It has been announced that administrators for the late Michael Jackson's estate have decided to continue working with Sony Music with Sony retaining the rights to his catalogue of hit songs while creating new projects for the late star. With this new agreement, Sony Music's Columbia Epic Label Group and Legacy Recordings will be able to w

Ronan Keatings solo concert brings Boyzone together

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Since the death of their band member Stephen Gately, Boyzone had not performed together until recently, when Shane Lynch, Mikey Graham and Keith Duffy were the surprise guests at lead singer Ronan Keating's solo concert. It was an emotional night for the four, who sang their new single, Gave It All Away. The track was the last song recorded by the band featuring Gately's voice.

Heidi Range is engaged and wants the world to know

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

In this year's live BBC show to decide which entry England would be entering into the Eurovision song contest, Sugababes singer Heidi Range made an appearance to support the artists and used the occasion to show off her engagement ring. While talking to the host, Range beamed happily and displayed the diamond ring given to her by fiancé Dave Berry, a British TV presenter, who proposed to the singe

SOUNDCHECK: RETURN TO INNOCENCE - Back to the beginning

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Return to Innocence was created by the musical group Enigma and released in 1994 from its album The Cross of Changes. The song was used to promote several types of media in the mid 1990s, including appear- ances in film and TV commercials.
The aboriginal Taiwanese chant was sampled from the Jubilant Drinking Song and the drumbeat of the song was sampled from Led Zeppelin's When the Levee Breaks

UK top 10 singles

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1. Pass Out Tinie Tempah 2. Rude Boy Rihanna 3. Baby Justin Bieber ft Ludacris 4. Starry Eyed Ellie Goulding 5. In My Head Jason Derulo 6. Empire State Of Mind (Part II)

Alicia Keys 7. You Got The Dirtee Love Florence/Dizzee Rascal 8. Parachute Cheryl Cole 9. On A Mission Gabriella Cilmi 10. My Name McLean

UK top 10 albums

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1. Brother Boyzone 2. Plastic Beach Gorillaz 3. The Element Of Freedom Alicia Keys 4. A Curious Thing Amy Macdonald 5. The Fame Lady Gaga 6. Crazy Love Michael Bubl'e 7. Sunny Side Up Paolo Nutini 8. Lungs Florence And The Machine 9. Glee The Music Season One Vol 1 Glee Cast 10. Andrew Lloyd Webber Love Never Dies Original Cast Recording

BILLBOARD top 10 singles

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1. Break Your Heart Taio Cruz ft Ludacris 2. Need You Now Lady Antebellum 3. BedRock Young Money ft Lloyd 4. Rude Boy Rihanna 5. Imma Be Black Eyed Peas 6. Tik Tok Ke$ha 7. Hey, Soul Sister Train 8. In My Head Jason Derulo 9. Bad Romance Lady Gaga 10. How Low Ludacris

BILLBOARD top 10 albums

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1. Need You Now Lady Antebellum 2. Soldier Of Love Sade 3. Hillbilly Bone (EP)

Blake Shelton 4. My Best Days Danny Gokey 5. Alice In Wonderland Soundtrack 6. Smoke & Mirrors Lifehouse 7. The Fame Lady Gaga 8. The E.N.D Black Eyed Peas 9. The Love & War Masterpiece Raheem De Vaughn 10. Easton Corbin Easton Corbin Source: The Internet

SONGS THAT MENTION - SOS - SOS-The Jonas Brothers

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Nick Jonas wrote this song in ten minutes and it became the band's first Top 20 hit. The Jonas Brothers recorded the album in 21 days and it got a promotional push from The Disney Channel and Radio Disney while debuting at number five.

SOS-Abba

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The song was first called Turn Me On and was the third single from Swedish pop group Abba's self-titled 1975 album. Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus and Stig Anderson wrote the song while Anderson coined the title.

SOS (Let the Music Play) -- Jordin Sparks

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

This song was the second single released from season six American Idol winner Jordin Sparks's second studio album, Battlefield. The song contains a sample of Let The Music Play by Shannon.

SOS-The Breeders

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Released by The Breeders, an American rock band formed in 1988, this song is an instrumental off their album Last Splash. The Prodigy sampled this song on their hit Firestarter.

SOS (Rescue Me)-Rihanna

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The song is a dance-pop song written by Evan Bogart and J R Rotem for Rihanna's 2006 studio album, A Girl Like Me. SOS was released as the album's lead single. It samples Soft Cell's 1981 single Tainted Love.

SHUTTER ISLAND

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Emma Williams theweek@apexstuff.com Director: Martin Scorsese Cast: Leonardo DiCaprio, Mark Ruffalo, Ben Kingsley, Michelle Williams, Max von Sydow and Emily Mortimer I am probably the only person in the world who didn't know what this film was about. I knew it was Scorsese and I knew DiCaprio was involved, so a positive recommen- dation from a colleague of mine and I was sold. There are very few

CASTING NEWS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Selma, the follow-up movie to Lee Daniel's Oscar-winning film Precious, is currently finalising its cast despite financial woes. Hugh Jackman is thought to be playing a racist sheriff while British actor David Oyelowo is set to play Rev Martin Luther King Jr.

CASTING NEWS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Fighting aliens isn't enough for Sigourney Weaver, who is now set to play a vampire queen in upcoming romantic horror-comedy Vamps. The film also sees a working reunion for Clueless director Amy Heckerling and actress Alicia Silverstone.

MOVIE NEWS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Paramount has bought the rights to comic book Existence 2.0. Alfred Gough and Miles Millar, the pairing behind the popular superman-based TV series Smallville, have been brought on-board. The comic is by Nick Spencer and Ronald Salas.

CASTING NEWS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Jason Segel, the Knocked Up star, has made an unlikely link with Disney's Muppets movie after they signed the actor as the main human lead. The star also co-wrote the script and will act as a producer. James Bobin has been signed to direct.

MOVIE NEWS

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Kristen Stewart and Julianne Moore have both signed up to appear in an end-of-the-world movie that is due to begin shooting this summer.
Moore's husband, Bart Freundlich, will direct. Stewart will begin filming after promoting her current film.

Burton and Cotillard receive French honour

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The director, who gave the actress her big US break, receives award in France alongside Cotillard Oscar-winning French actress Marion Cotillard and Alice in Wonderland director Tim Burton were added to France's cultural honour roll at a star-packed cere- mony in Paris last week. Frederic Mitterrand, French Culture Minister, gave the green and gold medals to the pair, making Burton an officer in Fr

Canadian sentenced for movie piracy

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Geremi Adam, who police once described as one of Canada's biggest movie pirates, was sentenced to two-and-a-half months in prison last week for selling copies of films that he secretly recorded in cinemas.
Adam pleaded guilty and has now become the first Canadian to be sen- tenced for violating copyright laws.
Adam was also ordered to complete 100 hours of community service and banned from e

GUESS THE MOVIE QUOTES

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

1) If I could measure the beauty of her eyes. I was born to look into them and know myself 2) I hate it when you're not around and the fact that you didn't call. But mostly I hate the way I don't hate you, not even close, not even a little bit, not even at all.

3) I couldn't believe she knew my name. Some of my best friends didn't know my name.

4) You have to try because if you haven't tri

WHOSE LEGS ARE THESE?

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

A) Megan Fox B) Jennifer Love Hewitt C) Mischa Barton Answer: Jennifer Love Hewitt

WEEKEND PLANNER

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

EATING OUT Friday Brunch at RBG Grill The RBG Grill in Park Inn Muscat is currently offering a new brunch on Fridays. With its laid back atmosphere, spa- cious interior and wide selection of signature dishes, the Friday brunch ties in well with relaxed weekend plans. Diners can sample an array of starters from the buffet on display while waiting for their main course of choice to be served up. Veg

IN THE HOTSEAT

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Seek the answers you didn't know where to get Q. If I am employed by a company in Muscat, do I have to provide my own medical insur- ance and pay for all costs involv- ing my employment i.e. visa, labour card and PRO expenses to get them yet not claim for these on expenses? Also, is it legal to have no paid leave as per the Oman Labour Law? If not, what actions can I take?
Name withheld on

Live and let Live

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

When I was a toddler, I would dream of drifting Through the starlit sky To those distant worlds And, voila! Alien civilizations...
I dreamt to be an astronaut! As I aged and gazed, I engaged myself to be a scientist Unveil the complexity of life, Travel quicker than light, Assemble a time-machine, Discover the secret of immortality...
Today, I have left my destiny In the hands of time.
I

IN MYSELF I MUST BELIEVE

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The road may be long In myself I must believe Because my heart is strong The mountain may be steep In myself I must believe Therefore I will not weep In the face of adversity In myself I must believe I'm the master of my destiny When facing an angry wave In myself I must believe Because I'll always be brave In spite of life's complexity In myself I must believe Because I will trust serenity I'll a

HOROSCOPE

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

ARIES MARCH 21-APRIL 19 Don't let your boss make you feel guilty enough to take work home with you. Emotional deception will cause friction on the home front.
Your accomplishments could exceed your expectations if you mix a little business with pleasure. You must look into your options at home and at work.
TAURUS APRIL 20-MAY 20 This week is not a good time to get involved in joint financial

OFFBEAT

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Send your high resolution photographs in JPG/JPEG format with details (name, contact number, camera used and location) to theweek@apexstuff.com Wadi mermaids Photographer Sarath K Pallawela Camera Canon 5D Walled Photographer Brandon Laine Camera Canon Ixus 200 IS Location Nizwa Fort Desert dream Photographer Ashok Kumar Camera Nikon D90 Location Sharqiyah Sands

Graeme Smith back in South Africas ODI squad

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

South Africa has recalled captain Graeme Smith to their one-day squad for the tour of West Indies in May and June. Smith will return after missing last month's 2-1 one-day series defeat n India because of a finger injury, Cricket South Africa said. All-rounder Ryan McLaren was also rought back while Herschelle Gibbs and Albie Morkel were dropped. For the Tests, the selectors icked the same 15-man

Prydie is youngest Welsh international

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Tom Prydie became Wales' youngest international when the 18-year-old wing turned out for their closing Six Nations match against Italy in Cardiff. The Ospreys man, who is also be the youngest player to feature in the tournament just 27 days after his birthday, replaced Leigh Halfpenny in one of five changes made to the starting line-up.

Portsmouth chief Storrie steps down

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Peter Storrie stepped down as chief executive of crisis club Portsmouth. “After talks with his family and friends Storrie has decided it is in the best interests of the club for him to leave his full-time employment,“ administrator Andrew Andronikou said in a statement, which was released to the media by the authorities.

Schumacher 007

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

REUTERS Lewis Hamilton may dream about being cast in the role of James Bond, but seven-times Formula One champion Michael Schumacher said the role was already his.

“I am probably James Bond because I did my seventh title in the 700th grand prix,“ the German, returning to Formula One at the age of 41 and after three years out, told a Mercedes news conference when asked what movie role he might

Woods return too late for bonanza

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

REUTERS Tiger Woods's return to golf at the US Masters next month will generate huge interest in the tournament but almost nothing in the way of immediate revenues or profits for the event.

TV ratings will be up, sponsors will be pleased at increased coverage and the general buzz around the year's first major will be intense given the fascination with seeing how the scandal-hit golfer copes w

Lance Armstrong pulls out of Milan-San Remo race

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Seven-times Tour de France champion Lance Armstrong has pulled out of Milan-San Remo classic race because of acute gastroenteritis, his RadioShack team said. “It would have been good to have Lance line up for the start but we prefer not to take any risk,“ said RadioShack manager Johan Bruyneel in a statement. “It would not be very intelligent to let him start in a race of almost 300km, while not b

Badminton players unite behind charity

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Top players from the world of badminton, gathered for last week's annual All England championships, gave up their time for a media conference to lend the sport's muscle to a new charity called Solibad. Brainchild of French photo-journalist Raphael Sachetat, its name in French is Badminton Sans Frontieres.

Federer suffers shock loss to Baghdatis

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Roger Federer squandered three match points before suffering a shock 5-7 7-5 7-6 defeat at the hands of Cypriot Marcos Baghdatis at the Indian Wells ATP tournament. The Swiss world number one, who had beaten the Cypriot in all six of their previous meetings, lost the tiebreak 7-4 and the third-round match.

Human factor first for FIFA

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The governing body bats for simplicity and universality of the game REUTERS FIFA president Sepp Blatter, responding to criticism of the decision to reject goal line tech- nology, said he wanted soccer to be played under the same rules at all levels and retain its human element.

Blatter added that using technol- ogy to help referees can be very expensive and stopping games to review decisions

Archery will hit target at home of cricket

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

REUTERS The whistle of arrows flying across the pitch will replace the sound of leather on willow at Lord's in 2012 when archers take over cricket's spiritual home to target Olympic gold.

London 2012's organising com- mittee (LOCOG) unveiled its plans for the temporary transformation of the old north London cricket ground into an archery field. “Lord's will be a first-class venue for archery

English soccer heading for salary caps, says Mawhinney

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

English soccer clubs must be prepared for salary capping, former Football League chair- man Brian Mawhinney has warned recently.

The 60-year-old, who was succeeded after seven years by businessman Greg Clarke on Friday, believes that the current financial model at league clubs outside of the Premier League is not sustainable.

“The business model of professional football in this country d

Vladimir Klitschko lifts title again

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

World heavyweight champion Vladimir Klitschko landed a left-hand knockout punch five seconds from the end of the fight to beat challenger Eddie Chambers and retain his WBO, IBO and IBF belts. Klitschko rattled the American in the second round but had to wait until the end of the 12th to stage a dramatic finale and knock him out.

Ten-man Arsenal beats West Ham United

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Arsenal went top of the Premier League when it beat West Ham United 2-0 with goals from Denilson and Cesc Fabregas despite playing for more than half the match at the Emirates with ten men. Arsenal moved on to 67 points, with seven matches to play, to lead the standings for the first time since January.

Red Bull is ridiculously fast, observes Lewis Hamilton

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Mark Webber has had his hopes of becoming the first Australian to win his home Formula One grand prix next weekend pumped up by McLaren rival Lewis Hamilton. Britain's 2008 world champion said before heading to Melbourne that Red Bull's Webber and German team mate Sebastian Vettel undoubtedly had the quickest cars on the track. “The Red Bull is ridiculously faster than anyone else's car,“ he told

Muscat Open concludes with a thrilling finish

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The 37th edition of the Muscat Open golf competition took place recently and once again attracted top golfers in Oman, including three time champion Azaan al Rumhy and last year's champion Ali Hameed.

Day one saw Puli Sharma edge ahead on an excellent score of 74, one shot ahead of Jilan Jenggi and Azaan al Rumhy. Another shot back from them was Ian Morrison and Sachin Bawa. The results of the

Rally Oman third round winners

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

The third round of Rally Oman 2010 was held on Friday, March 19 and a total of 14 participated in the rally. The total distance of the rally was 214km and out of this, the special stages were 68km while the road section was 46km. The winners of the third round of the rally were Khalid Abdullah Soomar al Zadjali/Zakariya Ahmed Mohd al Aufi, Khalid Saleh Dhahi al Minji/Saif Abdullah Hilal al Aisri a

Oman Polypropylene football

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Oman Polypropylene recently organised their first football tournament for its employees. The B Team was crowned the champ- ion after defeating the S Team 2-0 in the finals. Earlier, the match between the Y Team and the D Team ended in a 2-2 draw. Omar al Alawi won the title of best attacker after scoring five goals while the best goalkeeper award went to Mohammed al Hinai.
The tournament was he

McLaren readies to take on Ferrari

authour@pressmart.com (authour) — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

REUTERS McLaren unveiled the first of a range of supercars that will take their Formula One battle with Ferrari and Mercedes out of the race- track and into the automotive arena.

McLaren said the new MP4-12C, with a likely price tag of around US$229,200 and annual production rate of 1,000 cars from 2011, represents the “logical next step“ for the British-based company.

“We know it's a