Kuwait Cabinet Submits Resignation

KUWAIT (Agencies)

The Kuwaiti government submitted its resignation on Thursday, State Minister for Cabinet Affairs Rudhan al-Rudhan told state news agency KUNA.

Lawmakers had asked to question three ministers, all members of the ruling al-Sabah family, the latest in a series of challenges by an unusually assertive Arab parliament that have delayed important economic reforms.

"The ministers submitted the resignation to the prime minister, who will refer it to the emir," a parliamentary source told Reuters.

Kuwait's parliament, the most outspoken in a Gulf region has triggered numerous cabinet resignations or reshuffles through questionings.

Sources said on Wednesday they expected the Gulf state's ruling emir, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah, to reappoint Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser al-Mohammad al-Sabah to form another cabinet.

While tough questioning of ministers is an everyday occurrence in most parliaments in the world, in Kuwait the questioning is more akin to a direct challenge to the individual and an indirect challenge to the ruler, who has the last say in politics.

All Your IT Problems Solved By Warsha.Com

http://www.warsha.com/ They have fast solutions for all your IT problems.
They are Apple and Microsoft service provider certified :O)
Their mobile technicians will gladly solve all your technology needs at your location.
Or you can also visit their locations in iCity Stores in the Avenues and Shuwaikh and at Mobility Store in Al Manshar Mall.

Thank you Ms Debbie x

Kuwait English School Boy a Genius at Only 15 Years Old

Mohammed El-Bahnasawi (2nd from Left) has been awarded the “Cambridge Outstanding Achiever Awards, Top in the World” for achieving the highest mark recorded globally in his Cambridge IGCSE Mathematics examination (without coursework).

“We are very very proud of you” said KES Director, Rhoda Elizabeth Muhmood, adding that KES Chairman Mohammed Jassim Al Saddah is to present him with a special award.

The Cambridge International Examinations’ (CIE) prestigious Top in the World award recognises students who have received the highest result in the world in a Cambridge examination. The University of Cambridge International Curriculum provides students with lifelong skills and robust qualifications that are accepted and valued by universities and employers throughout the world.

Mohammed, a 15 year old Year 11 pupil sat the accelerated Cambridge IGCSE mathematics paper in June 2010, a year earlier than other students his age. World Champion Mohammed credited his success to his maths teachers Chris Glykys and Costas Kaimakkami.

"Mohammed is an extremely gifted and highly disciplined student who demonstrates a combination of high reasoning power and analytical skills who is often capable of generating ideas as well as an independent learner, self-initiator. His academic work is always of a very high standard," said Christakis Glykys, MSc "Mohammed is a gentle, polite and well-mannered young man who is a pleasure to teach. I wish him all the best in his future studies and life."

Mohammed was one of nineteen students in the accelerated class who completed the IGCSE Mathematics course in one year rather the normal two years. Sixteen students achieved a grade A* and the other three a grade A.

"Mohammed is one of the most naturally talented mathematicians we have had the pleasure of teaching over the last ten years or more" said Peter Unsworth, Head of Maths at Kuwait English School. “I would also like to thank the rest of the High School maths team here, as well as the proficient Junior numeracy department, for helping to coach this fine pupil through his earlier years with us. We would all like to wish Mohammed the very best of luck with his future studies", Mr Unsworth said.

Mohammed said he would like to dedicate his achievement to his family and the school. He entered Kuwait English School in Year 5, after attending several other schools in Kuwait.

Growing up with a gift at mathematics, Mohammed thought he would follow in his father's footsteps to become an engineer. “I think I inherited my maths ability from him”, Mohammed said. Mohammed said his father, a consultant engineer, encouraged him to be a doctor. ”My mother ( a paediatrician) discourages me from being a doctor to be an engineer!” But Mohammed's dream is to become a heart surgeon.

“My idol is Egyptian professor Magdi Yacoub. He is a world class cardiothoracic surgeon” Mohammed said. Sir Magdi is a consultant cardiothoracic surgeon at Harefield Hospital and has led a programme there cementing it as the leading transplant centre in the UK.

“When I knew about this person I was inspired by him”, Mohammed added. Sir Magdi reportedly decided to specialise in heart surgery after an aunt died of heart disease in her early 20s. Ironically, heart surgery on Mohammed’s aunt at the Chest Diseases Hospital sparked his interest in becoming a heart surgeon.

Mohammed expects to be studying for 6 years abroad to get his PhD before he starts working. He would like to study at Imperial College in London, where Sir Magdi is Professor of Cardiothoracic Surgery.

“I really hope to get a scholarship to achieve my goals”, he added. Mohammed already has physics, chemistry, biology and English as a second language IGCSE O levels also all with A star, and is considering taking A levels in biology, chemistry, physics and maths. Mohammed says on a normal day he studies for four hours a day, and as much as he can before an exam.

In his spare time, he plays football and participates as a striker in charity football tournaments, organised twice a year by KES Student Representative Council.

LWDLIK- Well done Mohammed wishing you all the best.

Thank you Hazel x

Vote For Most Inspiring Woman

Mrs Ruqaya Abdul Wahab Essa Al Qatami

Here's her story submitted by her daughter...

''Unwinding the film of my mother's life (journey in life) is truly inspiring and can only arouse admiration. What to say of her dedication, persistence and readiness to overcome any challenges that come in the way.

Helping the poor and caring for the needy was a philosophy that she was spoon-fed with all her life first within her family then later on when she married. A young widow at the age of 30, and a mother of 6 daughters and a son, she first dedicated her time to her young children inculcating us principles and solid rules. She was always the driving force who kept us gathered together.

She followed our education very closely and at the same time had us learn The Holy Quran and follow religious courses. That was mandatory to all and non negotiable.

Ahead of her time, she made sure that all her daughters get the proper education abroad, which was an exception in Kuwait in the late 1940's. She knew that education was the best power and force that they can have to ascertain their future. In 1978, she did not even hesitate to move with one of my sisters, who needed to finish her undergraduate studies, to the United States of America. She made use of her stay there to improve her skills in embroidery and couture.

However, that did not stop her from pursuing her charitable and humanitarian work and when the Kuwait Women Society was launched in 1961, she was from the beginning fully involved, first as a board member and then for six years a treasurer until the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990.

Because she liked sewing, she created a tailoring section within the society and was organizing, with the help of a group of female members, fashion shows and bazaars for fund raising; part of the money raised was allocated to support the society and part of it to help Palestinian orphanages and schools in Jerusalem. She also adopted an orphan Palestinian child whom she fully sponsored until the tragic invasion of Kuwait.

Would she have known I was divulging this trait of her character and her long standing story of charity she would certainly have resisted because she believes that we should be charitable but never publicize what we are doing, according to the precepts of Islam.

Oum Qais was very well known among her colleagues of the Kuwait Society for her talents in fundraising - she was excellent and would raise large sums for all kinds of causes. When the Kuwait Women Society came with the idea of building a village in Northern Sudan she was one of the most active fundraisers and soon "Qaryat Hanan "in Kassala, North Eastern Sudan was born. It was entire village with all possible shops necessary, housings etc. My mother also participated in the fundraising for the building of a village for the orphans in Lebanon.

Besides raising funds she herself has devoted her personal time to conduct amongst others sewing workshops, carpentry and farming to encourage women to work and earn leaving.

She resumed her activities immediately at the liberation of Kuwait, quietly working and helping those in need. In Kuwait she started by creating exquisite handmade pieces (artisan at) that she would sell in charity bazaars that she organized herself; all the profits of the bazaars were donated to Hussain Makki Jumaa Cancer Center to help needy cancer patients, buy airplane tickets, wheelchairs or certain expensive medicines or sponsor expensive medical procedures.

The idea of launching an association was in my mother's mind for many years. It was triggered after she herself lived through the ordeal of losing a loved one - my nephew - to this disease. While he was being treated in America my mother noted the efficacy and efficiency of the cancer support groups there.

At the time, Oum Qais asked for the support of all her family, relatives and friends. They were of course all so confident of her ability to handle this humanitarian work and charity, that they all gave her the support she needed.

The association started first on a small scale with a group of dedicated volunteer women. Hayat4Cancer was launched unofficially in 2003 but soon it expanded and due to the excellent work and assistance provided to the cancer patients, the Ministry of Social Affairs recognized it and accepted it to be an official and registered foundation under their supervision. Actually Hayat4Cancer is a branch of the: "Rugaya A. Al-Qatami Charity Foundation & Cancer Patients Helping Fund" (2008).

Our association is composed of a group of dedicated volunteers. All the proceeds received from the donations are entirely spent purchasing the chemotherapy for the patients.

Our Association has three key goals:

* Providing free of charge expensive chemotherapy to expatriates non-GCC nationals residing in Kuwait, assisting them with their treating physicians to the end of their treatment, and morally supporting them.

* Breast cancer support group for Kuwait patients

* In a very near future launching in association with the Ministry of Health a nationwide program on breast cancer screening for Kuwaiti women to raise awareness and improve the status of health in Kuwait, our beloved country.

Our sponsorship includes 23 different nationalities: Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Soudan, Yemen, Bulgaria, Canada, Iran, Lebanon, India, Morocco Philippines, Sri-Lanka, Iraq, Bangladesh, China, United States of America, Australia, and non- Kuwaitis (Bedoons). Since Ramadan September 2007 we have sponsored 207 cancer patients at a cost of more than 2.5 million Kuwaiti Dinars: including breast cancer, lymphoma, colon cancer, leukemia, kidney cancer, lung cancer, liver cancer and brain cancer.

This may appear a "drop in the ocean" but with the help and support of those very generous and big hearted donors, we have succeeded to help some of the patients. Because we have the technical expertise, a branch of the charity foundation helps in other parts of the Arab world - "Help Yemen" deals with specific health problems related to childhood cancer and breast cancer in Yemen and "Hayat in Syria" was launched lately and is providing technical advice to build a cancer hospital outside of Damascus.

This is my mother, well known in Kuwait as "Oum Qais Alghanim" a discreet and generous Grande Dame, a philanthropist, our driving force who is always able to give a helping hand to whomever who needs it."

Facebook Page [link]

Website: http://hayat4cancer.org/
Email: admin@mabarah.org 


LWDLIK- A fitting tribute by her daughter.


Ruqaya Abdul Wahab Essa Al Qatami (Oum Qais)  is a contestant in the Philadelphia Cream Cheese competition of 'Women Who Inspired You Most'. If you would like to vote for this wonderful lady here's the [link]. I have been informed by her granddaughter that any prize money will go to the Hayat Cancer Foundation.

Thank you Bibi x

Cinemagic's April Schedule

Saturday, April 2 · 7:30pm - 9:30pm
Location: Cinemagic's rooftop venue, Old Salmiya, above LG Electronics.

Film: Micmacs
Director: Jean-Pierre Jeunet
Country: France
Release: 2010
Genre: Comedy, crime
Running time: 105 minutes
Language: French
English Subtitles
Awards: Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Edit
Rated: R

Avid movie-watcher and video store clerk Bazil has had his life all but ruined by weapons of war. His father was killed by a landmine in Morocco and one fateful night a stray bullet from a nearby shootout embeds itself in his skull, leaving him on the verge of instantaneous death. Losing his job and his home, Bazil wanders the streets until he meets Slammer, a pardoned convict who introduces him to a band of eccentric junkyard dealers... When chance reveals to Bazil the two weapons manufacturers responsible for building the instruments of his destruction, he constructs a complex scheme for revenge.

Please note as this is an outdoor screening it may be cancelled if raining or too dusty.

LWDLIK- Looks like a great, fun movie. If you need more details, map, etc type Cinemagic in the search box on the top right  for previous posts.


SATURDAY APRIL 9th - 7:30 PM

SYMPATHY FOR MR VENGEANCE
Director: CHAN WOOK PARK
Country: South Korea
Release: 2002
Genre: Crime
Drama, Thriller
Running time: 129 minutes
Language: Korean
English Subtitle
Awards: Best Actor, Best Film, Best Director...
Rated: R

This is the story of Ryu, a deaf man, and his sister, who requires a kidney transplant. Ryus boss, Park, has just laid him off, and in order to afford the transplant, Ryu and his girlfriend develop a plan to kidnap Park's daughter. Things go horribly wrong, and the situation spirals rapidly into a cycle of violence and revenge.


THURSDAY APRIL 14th

THE WIZARD OF OZ
Director: VICTOR FLEMING
Country: USA
Release: 1939
Genre: Adventure
Fantasy
Musical
Family
Running time: 101 minutes
Language: English
English Subtitle
Awards: 2 Oscars, 5 other wins and 8 nominations
Rated: PG

In this charming film based on the popular L.Frank Baum stories, Dorothy and her dog Toto are caught in the path of a tornado and somehow end up in the Land of Oz. Here she meets some memorable friends and foes in her journey to meet the Wizard of Oz who everyone says can help her return home and possibly grant her new friends their goals of a brain, heart and courage.


SATURDAY APRIL 16th - 7:30 PM

AWAY WE GO
Director: SAM MENDES
Country: USA
Release: 2009
Genre: Comedy
Drama
Running time: 98 minutes
Language: English
English Subtitle
Awards: Nominated Best Actors, Best Film
Rated: 15+

When slacker thirty-something couple Burt and Verona discover that his parents are moving overseas, the duo who expect their first child in a few months set off on a cross-country tour to figure out where they should lay down some roots. They visit a number of different cities, and meet with a different friend or family members family at each stop...


THURSDAY APRIL 21st - 7:30 PM

JAR CITY
Director: BALTASAR KORMAKUR
Country: Iceland
Release: 2006
Genre: Thriller
Running time: 93 minutes
Language: Icelandic
English Subtitle
Awards: Best Film, Best Actor, Best Director, Cinematography,
Rated: 15+

It looks like nothing ever happens in Iceland and when a seemingly innocuous old man is brutally killed, the news is in someway amplified. Detective Erlendur Sveisson, fifty and living a life plagued by various forms of addiction, is appointed the apparently incomprehensible case.... An austere yet powerful and gripping detective story, Jar City has been very well received by demanding American audiences. Perfectly crafted as a suspense-generating machine, what really makes Jar City a unique film in its genre is the effective balance between its vivid and somewhat physical images, and its cerebral, nearly philosophical narrative mood.


SATURDAY APRIL 23rd - 7:30 PM

WATER
Director: DEEPA MEHTA
Country: India
Release: 2005
Genre: Drama
Running time: 117 minutes
Language: Hindi
English Subtitle
Awards: Best Film, Director, Cinematography, Script...
Rated: PG

In 1938, Chuyia a child bride whose husband dies before their union is consummated is relegated to life in an ashram in Varanasi for other 'unwanted widows. Their life is ruled over by a venal old woman, Madhumati She pimps the young widows out to wealthy Brahmin gentlemen, whose attentions are considered by society to be a blessing. Another young widow, Kalyani runs away to marry a young lawyer, a devotee of Ghandi, until she discovers that his father has been her 'client/benefactor...


THURSDAY APRIL 28th - 7:30 PM

THE HEADLESS WOMAN
Director: LUCRECIA MARTEL
Country: Argentina
Release: 2009
Genre: Drama
Mystery
Thriller
Running time: 87 minutes
Language: Spanish
English Subtitle
Awards: Cannes in competition, Best film, Director, Actress...
Rated: 15+

Acclaimed Argentinean filmmaker Lucrecia Martel steps back behind the camera for her third feature film with a mysterious and intriguing tale of a bourgeois woman who when driving alone on a dirt road, becomes distracted, and runs over something. In the days following this jarring incident, she is dazed and emotionally disconnected from the people and events in her life. She becomes obsessed with the possibility that she may have killed someone...


SATURDAY APRIL 30th - 7:30 PM

THE GIRL WHO KICKED THE HORNET'S NEST
Director: DANIEL ALFREDSSON
Country: Sweden
Release: 2010
Genre: Crime
Drama, Thriller
Running time: 147 minutes
Language: Swedish
English Subtitle
Awards:
Rated: R

After taking a bullet to the head, Salander is under close supervision in a hospital and is set to face trial for attempted murder on her eventual release. With the help of journalist Mikael Blomkvist and his researchers at Millennium magazine, Salander must prove her innocence. In doing this she plays against powerful enemies and her own past.

GAP 40% off til 27th April

British Ladies Society

BLS are a lovely busy bunch who do actually do lunch.

Yes sorry :OI My blogsite's name is a little misleading so, again, my apologies to those ladies enquiring about the next lunch date. Afraid I'm tres, tres busy for lunches. But I do the occassional brunch, soirees and coffee with donuts though :O)

Here's their FB page with lots of meetings planned.

* Join them at Cafe Organica, Jabriya on Wednesday 30th March at 7-7.30pm for fish and chips. Email nightout@theblskuwait.com  to book your place.

* Hello Mothers, would you like to attend our exciting Mother's Day brunch on Sunday? For more information e-mail events@theblskuwait.com. Ladies only.

* April 10 - Excursion to Wafra Flower Farm. See BLS Website for details and to sign up.





 

Japanese Repair Quake-Ravaged Road in Just Six Days

Damaged by earthquake..

Repaired..

Due to the extensive damage in Japan caused by the massive earthquake and resultant tsunami on March 11, 2011 many have questioned if the island nation can recover in a year, much less a few months. If the swiftness with which the Japanese can repair roads is any indication, we wouldn't bet against the country cleaning up this catastrophe in short order.


As a result of the quake, a 150-meter section of the Great Kanto Highway in Naka was absolutely obliterated, with massive chasms running right through the middle of the road. Work crews at the NEXCO road repair company sprang into action on March 17, working at a fevered pitch to help get their country on the road to recovery, literally. Amazingly, after only six days of labor, the road is silky smooth and ready for travel. Look at the the before and after photos above to see just how amazing this feat is.

Given the fact that road crews in the U.S. can spend three or more months repairing a single lane of concrete, only to leave the orange barrels on the road for another two weeks, we're blown away by this feat of engineering. Simply amazing.

LWDLIK- Thank you Jery :O)

A Letter From Sendai, Japan.

Cherry Blossoms, Japan. Photograph by Michael S. Yamashita

In full bloom, an ornamental cherry tree branch extends out over a moat at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan. The flowering cherry tree, or sakura, is one of the most exalted flowering plants in Japan, where the blossoms' short but beautiful blooming time is a symbol for the evanescence of human life.

                                                                                                                3/14/2011

A Letter from Sendai, Japan.

Things here in Sendai have been rather surreal. But I am very blessed to have wonderful friends who are helping me a lot. Since my shack is even more worthy of that name, I am now staying at a friend's home. We share supplies like water, food and a kerosene heater. We sleep lined up in one room, eat by candlelight, share stories. It is warm, friendly, and beautiful.

During the day we help each other clean up the mess in our homes. People sit in their cars, looking at news on their navigation screens, or line up to get drinking water when a source is open. If someone has water running in their home, they put out a sign so people can come to fill up their jugs and buckets.

It's utterly amazingly that where I am there has been no looting, no pushing in lines. People leave their front door open, as it is safer when an earthquake strikes. People keep saying, "Oh, this is how it used to be in the old days when everyone helped one another."

Quakes keep coming. Last night they struck about every 15 minutes.. Sirens are constant and helicopters pass overhead often.

We got water for a few hours in our homes last night, and now it is for half a day. Electricity came on this afternoon. Gas has not yet come on. But all of this is by area. Some people have these things, others do not. No one has washed for several days. We feel grubby, but there are so much more important concerns than that for us now. I love this peeling away of non-essentials. Living fully on the level of instinct, of intuition, of caring, of what is needed for survival, not just of me, but of the entire group.

There are strange parallel universes happening. Houses a mess in some places, yet then a house with futons or laundry out drying in the sun. People lining up for water and food, and yet a few people out walking their dogs. All happening at the same time.

Other unexpected touches of beauty are first, the silence at night. No cars. No one out on the streets. And the heavens at night are scattered with stars. I usually can see about two, but now the whole sky is filled. The mountains of Sendai are solid and with the crisp air we can see them silhouetted against the sky magnificently.

And the Japanese themselves are so wonderful. I come back to my shack to check on it each day, now to send this e-mail since the electricity is on, and I find food and water left in my entranceway. I have no idea from whom, but it is there. Old men in green hats go from door to door checking to see if everyone is OK. People talk to complete strangers asking if they need help. I see no signs of fear. Resignation, yes, but fear or panic, no.

They tell us we can expect aftershocks, and even other major quakes, for another month or more. And we are getting constant tremors, rolls, shaking, rumbling. I am blessed in that I live in a part of Sendai that is a bit elevated, a bit more solid than other parts. So, so far this area is better off than others. Last night my friend's husband came in from the country, bringing food and water. Blessed again.

Somehow at this time I realize from direct experience that there is indeed an enormous cosmic evolutionary step that is occurring all over the world right at this moment. And somehow as I experience the events happening now in Japan, I can feel my heart opening very wide. My brother asked me if I felt so small because of all that is happening. I don't. Rather, I feel as part of something happening that much larger than myself. This wave of birthing (worldwide) is hard, and yet magnificent.

Thank you again for your care and Love to me.

LWDLIK- Just thought I'd share this email with you. I found it uplifting. In times of great adversity we find humanity at it's best.

Kuwaiti Columnist: It Is Ignorant to Claim that the Japanese Tsunami Was Punishment from Allah

"Arab clerics have recently claimed that the massive earthquake and resulting tsunami that struck Japan on March 11, 2011 were Allah's way of punishing the "infidels." For example, Saudi sheikh Abd Al-Rahman Al-Barrak wrote on the Islamic website almoslim.net that it is ignorant to think that natural disasters are random occurrences, and called upon Muslims to rejoice when infidels, "the enemies of Islam and Muslims," are punished."

In response to this twaddle....

March 24, 2011 column in the Kuwaiti daily Al-Qabas, columnist Dalaa Al-Mufti scathingly criticized views such as Al-Barrak's, and responded to an email she had received calling on her to refrain from sympathizing with the victims of the Japanese tsunami disaster because it was a deliberate action by Allah against the infidel, tyrannical, and pagan Japanese. She noted that the humility shown by the Japanese in coping with the disaster showed the falsity of the claim that they are tyrannical and evil, accused the author of the email of distorting Islam, and pointed out that Muslim countries have also been struck by natural disasters.

Following is a translation of Al-Mufti's column:

The Japanese Have Behaved Honorably During the Crisis

"I was astounded; my blood pressure and [blood] sugar levels rose, and my brain cells almost exploded with rage when I received an email from 'one of them' warning me of the torments of hell that awaited me if I dared to express sympathy over the disaster in Japan and the residents [of the country]. His lengthy email read, in part: 'What happened in Japan – the land of unbelief, atheism, and idol worship – is a cry of warning to these infidels and atheists, who have shown unbelief against Allah, and were rebellious, arrogant, and tyrannical in the land. What is sad is that we find some ignorant Muslims – may Allah set them on the straight path – who take pity on these infidels, sinners, and idol worshippers.'
"Strange. We haven't heard of a single Japanese person acting tyrannically and arrogantly – they are a people known for modesty and humility. We never knew that they acted tyrannically in the land – they were the ones whose cities were totally destroyed during World War II, and who rebuilt them steadfastly and determinedly, transforming Japan into one of the world's greatest and most important countries.

"When images of the moment of the terrible earthquake in Japan were broadcast, we were amazed to see the Japanese acting calmly, despite the fear that struck them. Instead of the crush [that would be] 'usual' [in such circumstances], hundreds of people stood and waited for the traffic light [to turn green] so they could go, while the ground shook under them. In spite of everything, there was not a single incident of theft or looting, which we customarily see in such circumstances. In a BBC interview, the American in charge of the rescue operations said he could hardly believe the serenity, the courtesy, the respectfulness, and the love for their fellow man that characterized the Japanese at such a trying time. Are these the unbelieving, evil, and tyrannical Japanese of whom the author wrote in his email?!"

"If Natural Disasters are Directed Solely Against Infidels, Why have They Also Struck Indonesia, Afghanistan, Iran, Algeria, and Other Muslim countries?"

"I am amazed by the condescension of some people, [who act] as if they alone deserve Allah's mercy and His Paradise. I am astounded by those [like the author of this email] who gloat when disaster strikes others , and it saddens me that they link their ugly slogans to our monotheistic religion [i.e. Islam] and use events and incorrect stories to distort the mercy and peace [that characterize] our faith. Does it make sense for someone to observe with such evil a devastating earthquake, a horrific tsunami, and a radioactive leak that threatens the planet?

"I have a question for that gloating man: If natural disasters are directed solely against infidels, why have they also struck Indonesia, Afghanistan, Iran, Algeria, and other Muslim countries? Is there [such a thing as] an Islamic earthquake and an infidel earthquake?

"Clearly, Japan didn't ask what religion the Kuwaitis were when it gave them $12 million in cash during the Iraqi invasion – and we repay them with a loathsome catastrophe of thought and with a tsunami of ignorance that inundate the mind of some of us. But ultimately, we can only call on the Allah we know – not on the one that [the author of the email] knows – to have mercy on the Japanese and to help them up from where they have fallen, so that they will restore the wealth to humanity with their activity, morality, and culture."

LWDLIK- To which I have nothing to add except.... YOU GO GIRL! There really are some smart, gutsy gals out there :OD

French 'Spiderman' has Conquered Burj Al Khalifa

A French daredevil urban climber on Monday scaled the world's tallest building, the 828m Burj Khalifa in Dubai, fighting winds that delayed his ascent for hours.

Alain Robert, 48, who is also known as the French Spiderman, took about six hours to climb the more than 160-storey building, using a rope and harness as required by organisers.

But he said the safety precautions and the attention from a crowd that had gathered to watch made him more nervous.

"Actually there is huge pressure on me because I know that they have installed everything there; this is for me. There is a giant screen, 50m high, 30m long. I know everybody is going to look at me so it's a bit of - a lot of - stress in fact," Robert said before the climb.

Iman Al-Obeidi's Mother

What a great mother. The strength and courage of these women in this family is extraordinary.

French 'Spiderman' Set to Climb Burj Al Khalifa in Dubai

French 'Spiderman' Alain Robert climbs the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority building in Abu Dhabi on 23rd February, 2007. While other famous urban climbers sometimes used clamps or suction cups, Robert uses no tools or safety devices of any kind. Using only his bare hands and climbing shoes, Robert has scaled more than 70 giant structures around the globe including many of the world's tallest structures.

6th Gulf Jazz Festival

At Al Hashemi II, Radisson Blu Hotel.

April 27 -

Karen Edwards

&

Jarek Smietana Trio

April 28 -

Monica Borrfors Ensemble Show

Tickets on sale from April 10th, 2011

Tickets in Kuwait :
April 27th- KD.22 (including BBQ Dinner)
April 28th- KD.22 (including BBQ Dinner)
Available at Radisson Blu Hotel Tel. 25756000 and Virgin Megastore, Marina Mall.

For more details please E-mail : office@gulfjazzfest.com  or cracoviamusic@hotmail.com or visit http://www.gulfjazzfest.com/

LWDLIK- Love Karen she's great.

Free Iman Al-Obeidi! The Libyan Rape Victim

"Sisterhood heals, sisterhood saves...Bravo to the brave women of Libya

 for standing up for Iman Al-Obeidi--the world is with you all!"

I recently posted a very disturbing video of a very brave Libyan law student Iman Al Obeidi trying to tell foreign journalists of her horrendous rape ordeal. She was taken away by government officials to an unknown location. International support for her release is growing daily.
Here's the Facebook page Free Iman Al Obeidi or you can follow on Twitter a CNN reporter Nic Robertson who is tweeting on her story from Libya.

I hope and pray that you will be free and with your family soon Iman.

To that horrible, monster Libyan government spokesperson Moussa Ibrahim who claimed she was drunk, mentally ill and a prostitute...SHAME on you! How do you sleep at night?

Concert de la Francophonie 2011

                                                                              

On the occasion of the Francophonie month the French Embassy in Kuwait & the National Council for Culture, Arts & Letters are organizing a concert “Le Trio Titi Robin” on March 29th at 7:30pm at the Shamiya Theatre, Hamad Saleh Al Homaidi St., Block 4.

Thierry Robin - Flute, Bouzouk & Guitar Player
Francis Varis - Accordionist
ZE Luis Nascimento - Percussionist

Cost: Free/Seats limited
Contact details and more info tel. 22582066
Mr. Julian  Clech - Cultural Counsellor
Mrs. Sabrina Kadri - Cultural Cooperation
Mrs. Nawal Nassib - Adminisrative Assistant

With thanks to http://www.kuwait-music.com/

Trio Titi Robin

Lebanon On The Roof at Al-Manshar Rotana, Feheheel

Join Al Manshar Rotana to celebrate an evening in Lebanese style. Listen to live music and enjoy Lebanese mezze and dishes on the rooftop by the pool.
On March 31st, it's KD12 per person + 15% service charges. For reservations call tel. 23931000 or email: almanshar.hotel@rotana.com

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Website http://www.labnol.org/

Arabian Business Achievement Awards – Kuwait 2011

Each year, the awards celebrate the very best in business achievement, both on a corporate and individual level.
The Arabian Business Achievement Awards were held in Kuwait, Jordan, KSA and Dubai. Previous winners have included HRH Prince Alwaleed, King Mohammed VI of Morocco, and King Abdullah of Jordan. On December 14th 2008 the awards were held at the Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah. HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum won a special Lifetime Achievement Award for his outstanding contribution to global business over the past two decades. The Emirates Airline boss was one of 18 winners to be recognized, at a glittering evening.

Arabian Business Awards returns to The Courtyard Marriott, Kuwait on Wednesday 25^th May, to reward the outstanding performers of business in Kuwait.

LWDLIK- Interesting! I wonder if Ibrahim Dabdoub (CEO of NBK) or Dr Saad Al Barak (Former CEO of Zain) or Maha Al Ghunaim (Global) will be on that list? I know Mohammed Al Shaya will be; like to think I helped him get there LOL ;OD

The Huge Sandstorm Approaches- Two Guys Trying to Drive Through it

Posted on YouTube by Alkulaib.

Libyan Woman Iman Al-Obaidi Claims Rape to Foreign Journalists at Hotel

What will happen to her now? That stupid Libyan spokesperson is so flipping annoying. I do hope she will be ok.
I was thinking what would I do in her circumstances and I hope I would be brave enough to tell the world and face the dangerous consequences. Brave lady.

A2Z Sale

Better Books, Kuwait's only used bookstore and cafe - don't miss the contest

Collectible and Rare Books for Sale: 10 KD - 300 KD to include The Arab of the Desert by H.R. Dickson and 40 Years in Kuwait by Violet Dickson. Also, a book signed by President John F. Kennedy.

Return Policy: Return a book bought from us and get 1/2 purchase price back in store credit for your next purchase. Read, return and save.

Book Buying Policy: We give store credit for most books. Bring them in for evaluation.

Hours/Phone/Location: 10am-8 pm daily. Cell 66637351. Behind Al Rashid Hospital.

Directions:
Take 4th Ring Road to Salmiya
Past Highway 30
Past Fire Station on Right
At light - Amman Street - take right
through next light
See Al Rashid Hospital on Left
At Roundabout take a U-turn

Map




TOASTMASTERS MEETINGS -
Desert Pioneers Club 2nd and 4th Tuesday 7.15 - 9.05 pm
Timbre Talkers 1st and 3rd Tuesday 7.15 - 9.05 pm
Capitol Speakers 1st and 3rd Saturday 6.30 - 8.30 pm
Bright Horizons 2nd and 4th Friday 9.30 - 11 am.

GAVEL CLUB MEETINGS Every Friday Night 5.30 - 7.30 pm.

***In April, there will be Healing, Meditation, and Reiki classes at Better Books. Email jsshetty99@yahoo.com  or call 99315825 for more details.


Better Books sells 1 KD books on http://www.souq.com/  FREE DELIVERY


The Contest from Better Books and Cafe:

Answer the following questions correctly and be among the first five correct email replies to receive 1 KD off your next purchase.

1. Who wrote 40 Years in Kuwait?
a. H.R. Dickson
b. Violet Dickson

2. What organization do 'The Capitol Speakers, Desert Pioneers, Bright Horizons and Timbre Talkers' belong?
a. Toastmasters
b. Gavel Club

3. What well known British saying adorns a red poster at Better Books?
a. Keep Calm and Carry On
b. When going through hell, keep going

Send answers to betterbookskuwait2@hotmail.com

Here's a pic of the entrance to Better Books Basement Bookstore to help you locate it.

Two Kuwaitis Try to Smuggle 40 Drugged Pythons on Flight

Alert Indonesian airport security found 40 sedated pythons in their luggage as they were trying to board an Emirates flight to Dubai. AFP 

The Mother of All Sandstorms Hits Kuwait

Today in the news I read there was one fatality and four people still missing at sea. The storm hit so fast on 25th March and with wind speeds up to 80km/h.

Huge Sandstorm Hits Kuwait

First Incredible Video of the Sandstorm in Kuwait

Found on Twitter posted by Meshary Alelaj.

Earth Hour 2011: For the Planet. By the People.

At 8.30pm on Saturday 26 March 2011, Earth Hour will celebrate a worldwide commitment to ongoing change for the betterment of the one thing that unites us all – the planet.

To learn more on how you can participate http://www.earthhour.org/

Spring Bazaar Bonanza at KES and TES

KES Spring Bazaar starts Saturday, 26th March from 10am-2pm. Lots of stalls, bingo, basketball, face-painting, football,  Kookie's cupcakes, school band and fun stuff for the kids. An auction and raffle will be held with some great prizes; return ticket to London, 2 return tickets to Dubai, an iPad, weekend stays at Manshar Rotana, dinner vouchers for Movenpick, Radisson, Mogul Mahal restaurants, spa massage and many more.. so get yourself some raffle tickets. All proceeds go to charity.
Kuwait English School, Salwa, Block 11, next to park.


TES Spring Bazaar starts Saturday, 26th March from 2pm-5pm also lotsa fun for the kids, stalls, games and a raffle (just in case you didn't win anything at KES). All proceeds go to charity.
The English School, Salmiya, Mousaed Al-Azmi Street, Block 12.


LWDLIK- I'm on Mission Cupcake this weekend :O) 


Update: Made a whopping KD12 for charity..Yay!

Harmony House April Schedule

Click to enlarge

Masala Bhangra Workout

Masala Bhangra Workout
Sarina Jain is coming to Kuwait in April to introduce her fun fitness program for the first time in the Middle East. Hurry and sign up!
More info at http://www.ranafit.com/

The Masala Bhangra Workout® is an ACE ( American Council on Exercise) and AFAA (Aerobics & Fitness Association of America) exercise dance program that modernizes the high-energy folk dance of Bhangra by blending traditional Bhangra dance steps and the exhilaration of Bollywood moves.

Coming to Kuwait is the creator & founder Sarina Jain from April 12th-16th to give a Master class and a Training Workshop for the first time in the Middle East.

13-4-2011 Master Class @ Women Cultural Society in Khaldeya

14-4-2011 Master Class (socializing with the Indian community in Kuwait) Location TBA.

15&16-4-2011 Training Workshop for the Masala Bhangra Ambassador certification.

Moshe Katsav Former President of Israel Goes to Jail for Rape

Three judges, two women and a male, sentenced Moshe Katsav to seven years in prison and ordered him to make restitution to victims of rape, sexual assault and sexual harassment. The victims were several Israeli women including an 18-year-old National Service volunteer.

The case is unusual because Katsav is a former Israeli President. In Israel, Katsav's rank carried no privileges.


LWDLIK- Now this surprises me..

Hachy Kuwaiti?

I'm loving my new find and it's in English with pronunciation as well. Trust me if you learn a few of these phrases you will floor a Kuwaiti. They love to hear them. I will be able to understand more of what my MIL says. Can't wait to try some out on my husband when he wakes up.
Thank you http://www.7achy.com/ . A 7 in Arabic is an h.


A few examples:

Men nam lek nam bek;
meaning
whoever gossips with you will gossip about you, he who has no friends.

Narek wala janat haly;
meaning
I'd rather be in hell with you than in heaven without you

And my personal fav..

Dherat;
1- to fart.
2- (n) to bullshit and lie. (adj) Tadhreet: lies and prosecution.

A good phrase using this word: Humoud thebahtna dherat. Humoud you are killing me with your lies.


:O)

Nubian Cultural Night

At the AWARE Center - Advocates for Westerners-Arab Relations.
Thursday, March 31 · 6:00pm - 9:00pm
Villa 84, Surra Street, Block 3, Surra.
Tel: 5335280 or e-mail : info@aware.com.kw

Join them and learn more about the past and present of the oldest recognizable monarchy in human history.

- Nubian food & drinks

- Genuine Nubian henna

- Live performance by Nubian band (Tushka)

- Nubian craft and more

Barefoot in the Park

Neil Simon’s classic comedy “Barefoot in the Park” comes to The KLT at the end of this month and the box office is now open for ticket reservations.
Performances open on Wednesday March 30th at 7.30pm and run until Friday evening, April 1st.

The play is a romantic comedy set in New York in the 1960’s. Corrie is a free spirit, full of life and fun, who tries to involve her more solid, sensible husband Paul in a scheme to fix up her mother with their very eccentric neighbor. When things don’t go according to plan, an argument follows that makes her question their relationship and their entire marriage.

Made famous by the movie version starring Robert Redford, he was unfortunately not available for the KLT production so a much younger, sexier male was found ( Matt Aston) to play the part of Paul with Teresa Hansen in the role of his wife, Corrie.

The play marks the directorial debut at KLT of Annike Jones and is sure to be a hugely enjoyable night out so book early!

To book online, for timings and a map click HERE – or call the Box Office on 99373678

Adorable Spring Chick Cupcakes

Step 1
Bake a batch of cupcakes and cool completely. When turned upside-down, each cupcake becomes the body of a chick. Spread frosting on a cupcake to anchor it to the serving plate while you are working. Use a small offset spatula to coat the sides thickly with frosting, and then mound more on top to create a dome shape.






















Step 2
Press toasted shredded coconut into the frosting -- it stands in for fuzzy feathers. Hold the plate at an angle while applying the coconut so the excess falls back into the bowl.

Step 3
Place eyes (made from snipped black licorice laces) on chicks using tweezers. Use a whole almond for the beak and red licorice for the feet and comb; both can be pushed into the frosting by hand.

Thank you Martha you really are the best.

Spring Break Sewing Projects with the Kids

Tools and Materials:
Old glove or sewn felt fingers
Needle and thread
Small buttons
Scissors
Toile rounds in various colors
Iron
Adhesive felt or felt scraps (optional)

How to make Insect Finger Puppets:

1. Create the insect body. Begin with the finger of a stray glove. Or, using a sewing machine, sew two pieces of felt together in the shape of a finger. Sew one end closed, and leave the opposite end open, allowing space to insert your finger into the puppet. Once you have sewn the body together, turn the body inside out.

2. Make the eyes. Using a needle and thread, sew on small buttons for eyes (Martha uses coated Hy-Mark Thread for the eyes because it is stronger than regular cotton thread and will allow the antennae to stand up better.). Leave the knotted ends long and sticking upright over the eyes, simulating antennae.

3. Make the wings. Fold four toile rounds into quarters, then eighths, creating wings. Iron the wings with a dry medium-set iron. Cut into wing shapes. To attach the wings to the body, sew two wings to each side of the body at the same point, using a needle and thread. (It helps to hold the points of the wings together at an angle.) Fold in the point a few times, and then sew onto the body.

4. If desired, embellish the body or the wings with adhesive felt or felt scraps. (For example, Martha adds markings to the wings of the butterfly and black stripes to the bumblebee.)

Lots more great stuff [link]

LWDLIK- I do love Martha. She has some fab summer dresses and tote bags for mummies too :O)

A Charity Concert for Japan

Kuwait English School Band are presenting a Charity Concert in support of the people of Japan. The Concert will be held in The English School Auditorium in Salmiya, Area 12, Mousaed Al Azmi Street, at 7.30pm on Sunday, March 27. The concert is held under the auspices of the Kuwait Red Crescent Society.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Japan, I would like to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to the Government and all the people of Kuwait for their profound sympathy and support for the people of Japan on the destruction and the humanitarian sufferings caused by the devastating earthquake and Tsunami” Yasuyoshi Komizo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the State of Kuwait, said in a press release.

Tickets are availale for a KD10 donation on a first come first served basis at Kuwait English School during school hours. KES is located in block 11 of Salwa in Street 9. Naoko Ueki, Manager at Fanar Mall, is providing tickets from 7.30am to 2.30pm at the Fanar Mall Management Office (25720317). Tickets are also available at Kei Japanese Restaurant at Marina Crescent   
(22244360) and JW Marriot Hotel (22422650).

"KES Band are performing to show they are in support of and as a gift to Japan, as a token of their sympathy and in hope for the future” said Rhoda Elizabeth Muhmood, KES Director.

KES Band previous performances for charity include for the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fund, for Great Ormond Street Hospital, Save the Children Fund, KACCH, the Kuwait Red Crescent Society and the Haiti Relief Fund. KES Band has also performed at the Dorchester Hotel in London, St Johns Smith Square, and at Millenium Dome in 2000, at the Emirates Palace and the Madinat Jumeirah. In Kuwait the Band has been called upon to perform on many special occassions, such as the Celebration of 100 years of Friendship between Kuwait and Britain, at embassies, official openings, conferences and farewell gatherings.


LWDLIK- The survivors have come through this terrible ordeal, lost all their wordly goods and they are desperately in need of shelter and uncontaminated food. If you can't make the concert a donation can be made to the American Red Cross who are running a fund-raising campaign. 

Junior Baking Lessons at TIES Center

For girls aged 6-12 years. Starts every Saturday, April 30-May 21, 2011 from 10am-12pm. Certificates and gifts given after completion of course. Course is KD 15. For more info call Tel. 25231015/6, 97228860 to reserve a place. http://www.tiescenter.net/  TIES Center, Villa 64, Street 413, Block 4, Shuhada.


Map

Nice Touch LV

A sweet thought and clever marketing ploy by Louis Vuitton a bouquet of roses on Mother's Day to their loyal customers. Not sent to me :O( but to my dear friend (our own local Philipino Kimora Lee-Simmons) who between her and her husband have quite a collection.

Ladies Please Be Careful Out There!

Have read too many reports just lately of women ending up assaulted, held prisoner and raped by men they thought were nice guys. Not sure what your mammas taught you but going alone to meet a guy for the first time in his apartment is a huge mistake. If he's a nice guy he will never expect you to turn up alone at his place. Some poor girl who finds a number on a paper and decides to call and go visit an unknown male at his apartment is truly endangering herself. As a foreigner arriving here you've all heard of the date drug so don't allow yourself to be at a party without people you know really well and have a pact to leave together.

Ladies, come on! There are plenty of coffee shops and restaurants in public places where you can safely meet. I would then ask around about him through friends. If he tells you he's Kuwaiti it's easy to ask about his family, marital state, etc. If he's a Kuwaiti or foreigner check out his workplace and co-workers. You really have to do your homework. There are girls here getting involved with lying, cheating, unemployed men that have 6 kids at home. Look for all the signs:
#1. Doesn't let you near his mobile or sometimes doesn't answer his mobile. Looks at it when it's ringing and switches it off or to silent.
#2. Doesn't give you his mobile or home number but a friend's (yes hello -  I actually heard that one from a friend, come on ladies how naive are you?)
#3. In the beginning take their number, never give out your address or too many details. Trust me you'll thank me when you're trying to dump him.
#4. Always meet in public. If he doesn't want to meet you in public he's either married, afraid of his mother and sisters or embarrased by you. Think about it ladies it's not rocket science!
#5. No matter how much he begs, professes his undying love or promises marriage...They lie. A decent, sincere guy will not rush you, bully or make you feel uncomfortable.
#6. Call 112 if you are in danger. (Needs no credit on your mobile phone for this).

Please don't end up a victim. Ladies you need to watch out for yourselves. When I lived in New York I carried mace for walking home at night but actually a small can of Elnette hairspray or perfume will do. To be sprayed in the eyes whilst kicking them in the crown jewels.

I actually had a friend ask me last week if he should let his daughter (gorgeous, slim, 20 year old blonde visiting from Europe) go to a party alone - at the chalets with some Kuwaiti guys she met on a Greek island. I said definitely not! Or let her call the guys and ask if the whole family can come along (father, mother and big brother) then that's ok.

Another Top Tip for Finding a Husband

Went out to Avenues with family and my dear mother-in-law (MIL). She had a lovely time checking out the shops, buying some bits and having tea. We bought her some D&D flowers, sweets and a gift of boukhour from Atyab Al Marshoud (perfect for any Kuwaiti lady).

Now I, for one, love to see men out alone with their kids. I always think what a nice guy he must be. Seems the same is true if a woman is out with her elderly MIL/mother/aunt/grangma who is in a wheelchair. My hubby had disappeared to shop for a while so I was with my MIL shopping, chatting with her and helping her with things. I noticed lots of guys giving me the 'oh you are so lovely' look, smiling and being very helpful.  And I'm not on the market for a new husband, I wear a wedding ring and I'm in my late forties.

I'm telling you single ladies borrow someone's invalid granny - if you don't have one - and get yourself out there :O) Avenues even have their own wheelchairs at customer service.