D 16 C—22 C TODAY PUZZLES LIFESTYLE OROSCOPE New game

DOHA 16°C—22°C TODAY PUZZLES 12 & 13D LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE 14LP

Sunday, February 26, 2017Jumada I 29, 1438 AH

CommunityA large number of Nepali

expatriates in Doha celebrate the festivals of Maghe Sankranti and Sonam Losar.

P6 P16 CommunityThousands of saiga antelope

have been found dead in Mongolia, ravaged by a virus that has spread from livestock.

New game in town

A combination of a scavenger hunt and

a puzzle game, Adventure Rooms is for

those who want video game style

adventures with real-life experiences. P4-5

COVERSTORY

THE CHALLENGE: Locks inside the escape rooms.

Community EditorKamran Rehmat

e-mail: [email protected]: 44466405

Fax: 44350474

Emergency 999Worldwide Emergency Number 112Kahramaa – Electricity and Water 991Local Directory 180International Calls Enquires 150Hamad International Airport 40106666Labor Department 44508111, 44406537Mowasalat Taxi 44588888Qatar Airways 44496000Hamad Medical Corporation 44392222, 44393333Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation 44845555, 44845464Primary Health Care Corporation 44593333 44593363 Qatar Assistive Technology Centre 44594050Qatar News Agency 44450205 44450333Q-Post – General Postal Corporation 44464444

Humanitarian Services Offi ce (Single window facility for the repatriation of bodies)Ministry of Interior 40253371, 40253372, 40253369Ministry of Health 40253370, 40253364Hamad Medical Corporation 40253368, 40253365Qatar Airways 40253374

USEFUL NUMBERS

Quote Unquote

Sunday, February 26, 20172 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITY ROUND & ABOUT

RangoonDIRECTION: Vishal BhardwajWRITTEN BY: Matthew Robbins, Sabrina Dhawan, Vishal

BhardwajCAST: Saif Ali Khan, Shahid Kapoor, Kangana RanautSYNOPSIS: Rangoon is an Indian Hindi-language epic

romantic war drama fi lm directed by Vishal Bhardwaj and produced along with Sajid Nadiadwala and Viacom 18 Motion

Pictures and written by Matthew Robbins, Sabrina Dhawan and Vishal Bhardwaj. The project is a period fi lm set during World War II (1939-1945) and is partly inspired by the life and times of Mary Ann Evans aka Fearless Nadia, Bollywood’s fi rst original stunt-woman still remembered for her fi ery role in the movie Hunterwali. It stars Saif Ali Khan, Shahid Kapoor and Kangana Ranaut in lead roles.

LOCATIONS: Gulf Mall, Villaggio, Asian Town, The Mall

The LEGO Batman MovieDIRECTION: Chris McKayWRITTEN BY: Seth Grahame-Smith, Chris McKenna,

Erik Sommers, Jared Stern, and John WhittingtonCAST: Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Rosario DawsonSYNOPSIS: The Lego Batman Movie is a 2017 3D

computer-animated superhero comedy fi lm produced by Warner Animation Group and DC Entertainment. It is a spin-off of the 2014 fi lm The Lego Movie, focusing on the DC

Comics character Batman. Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, writers and directors of the original fi lm, act as producers. It stars the voices of Will Arnett, Zach Galifi anakis, Michael Cera, Rosario Dawson and Ralph Fiennes. The story revolves around Bruce Wayne, who must not only deal with the criminals of Gotham City, but also the responsibility of raising a boy he adopted.

LOCATIONS: Villaggio, Gulf Mall

Mall Cinema (1): Winner (Telugu) 2:30pm; Rock Dog (2D) 5pm; Eliminators (2D) 6:45pm; Fukri (Malayalam) 8:30pm; Yaman (Tamil) 11:15pm.Mall Cinema (2): Rock Dog (2D) 2pm; A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 3:30pm; Rangoon (Hindi) 5:15pm; A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 8pm; Eliminators (2D) 9:45pm; Tresspass Against Us (2D) 11:30pm.Mall Cinema (3): Fukri (Malayalam) 2pm; Munthiriv Allikal (Malayalam) 4:45pm; My Ex And Whys (Tagalog) 7:30pm; The Worthy (Arabic) 9:30pm; Rangoon (Hindi) 11:15pm.Landmark Cinema (1): A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 2pm; Winner

(Telugu) 3:45pm; Ballerina (2D) 6:30pm; Yaman (Tamil) 8:15pm; Fukri (Malayalam) 11pm.Landmark Cinema (2): Rock Dog (2D) 2:30pm; Rock Dog (2D) 4:15pm; My Ex And Whys (Tagalog) 6pm; Eliminators (2D) 8pm; Tresspass Against Us (2D) 9:45pm; Eliminators (2D) 11:30pm.Landmark Cinema (3): Rangoon (Hindi) 2pm; Fukri (Malayalam) 4:45pm; A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 7:30pm; The Worthy (Arabic) 9:15pm; Winner (Telugu) 11pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (1): Rock Dog (2D) 2:30pm; Rock Dog (2D) 4:30pm; Tresspass Against

Us (2D) 6:15pm; Rangoon (Hindi) 8:15pm; Yaman (Tamil) 11pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (2): A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 2:30pm; Yaman (Tamil) 4:30pm; Eliminators (2D) 7:15pm; Winner (Telugu) 9pm; Eliminators (2D) 11.30pm.Royal Plaza Cinema Palace (3): Rangoon (Hindi) 2:30pm; Loving (2D) 5:15pm; My Ex And Whys (Tagalog) 7:30pm; A Dog’s Purpose (2D) 9:45pm; The Worthy (Arabic) 11:30pm.Asian Town Cinema: Munthirivallikal (Malayalam) 6 & 9pm; Fukri (Malayalam) 6:30 & 9:30pm; Rangoon (Hindi) 4:30 & 10:30pm; Winner (Telugu) 7pm; Yaman (Tamil) 10pm & 1am.

PRAYER TIMEFajr 4.44amShorooq (sunrise) 6.00amZuhr (noon) 11.47amAsr (afternoon) 3.06pmMaghreb (sunset) 5.32pmIsha (night) 7.06pm

I’m afraid that if you look at a

thing long enough, it loses all of its meaning.

– Andy Warhol

EVENTS

Lecture on the Qur’anic Botanic Garden

WHEN: March 1TIME: 7pm (refreshments from 6:30pm)WHERE: Doha English Speaking School,

Madinat Khalifa SouthThe Qatar Natural History Group, for

its March talk, will be hosting a lecture by Fatma Saleh al-Khulaifi , Project Manager at the Qur’anic Botanic Garden. Al-Khulaifi will introduce the diff erent types of gardens, and the Qur’anic Botanic Garden concept and objectives. She holds a B.Sc in Biology/Chemistry from Education College, Qatar University, and an MBA from Missouri University (USA). For more details, please visit the Qatar Natural History Group website at www.qnhg.org

Picasso-Giacometti WHEN: Until May 21WHERE: Fire Station Artist In ResidenceThis exhibition brings together more than

120 works by Picasso and Giacometti, drawn from the collections of the Musée national Picasso-Paris and the Fondation Giacometti in Paris, as well as exceptional loans from French and other international collections, covering paintings, sculptures, sketches, photographs and interviews with the artists.

The exhibition refl ects two years of research undertaken by the Fondation Giacometti and the Musée national Picasso-Paris, which reveals for the fi rst time the previously unknown relationship between these two artists, who, despite an age gap of twenty years, shared many moments, both personal and professional.

It has been organised in six sections, evoking diff erent aspects of each artist’s production, including the development of their work as young artists through to their modernist creations, showing the correspondences between their works, the infl uence of the surrealist movement, and the return to realism during the post-war period.

The exhibition will be accompanied by a series of lectures and an extensive education programme, as well as a self-guided handbook for the visitors.

A richly illustrated catalogue published as co-edition with Flammarion will accompany the exhibition, featuring new essays by art historians and the curators of the exhibition.

NaghamWHERE: The Backyard at Sheraton Grand

HotelWHEN: ThursdaysTIME: 8pm onwardsAfter the success of The Backyard, a

concept is born to introduce Arabic music adding a twist of International tunes. Live band music by Nagham’s offi cial band and guest artists every week. The entrance fee is QR100. For details, call 44853000.

Reggae Beachfest DohaWHEN: Thursdays and Fridays WHERE: Oyster Beach Bar at St. Regis

HotelTIME: 8pm onwardsIn collaboration with Reggae Beachfest

in Dubai, Qatar will witness the best rasta nights around. The organisers say, “We’ve got the setup sorted to get you feeling the Caribbean vibe. Along with our resident band Earthkry all the way from Jamaica, we have so many big names in the Reggae scene lined up at this huge beachfest!” Entrance fee is QR50 at the door. For more information, please call 44460105

Senorita- Ladies NightWHERE: The Club at St. RegisWHEN: TuesdaysTIME: 7pm The Club at St. Regis promises the ‘fi nest

weeknight in town with Cuban and Latin rhythms’. The event starts at 7pm. The dress code is “strictly fabulous-Latin vibe” and there are no entrance fees. For more information, please call 4446-0105.

Dia al-Azzawi: A Retrospective (from 1963 until tomorrow)

WHERE: Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art and QM Gallery Al Riwaq

WHEN: Until April 16Qatar Museums presents a monograph of

one of the most renowned modern artists of the Arab world: Dia al-Azzawi. The exhibition, showcasing over 500 works across fi fty years and a range of media, aims at mapping an itinerary of modernism and profi les the practice of the Iraqi artist. The exhibition is curated by Catherine David, Deputy Director of Musée National d’Art Moderne at the Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris.

Revival of Qatar’s musical heritage and Qatari Folk singing program

WHEN: Thursday, Friday until April 28WHERE: Beach 15, Katara TIME: 6pm to 10pmResidents will have the opportunity to

watch and enjoy authentic Qatari musical arts and folk singing every weekend until April 28, 2017 at Katara.

The second edition of this cultural show dubbed as ‘The Revival of Qatar’s Musical Heritage and Qatari Folk Singing Programme’ is in line with Katara’s continuous efforts to preserve the heritage of Qatar’s ancestors.

Some sideline activities at the event include training sessions, competitions, exhibitions, documentary research, publications, and lectures and seminars.

Chamber Music at MIA: Telemann Concerto for Four Violins

WHEN: March 2TIME: 6pmWHERE: Museum of Islamic ArtThe monthly free chamber music concert

by members of the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra in the atrium of Museum of Islamic Art will be on March 2, with the West Bay skyline as a backdrop. No tickets or reservations required. All ages welcome. Seating will be on a first-come first-serve basis.

Secrets of the SimpsonsWHEN: March 5TIME: 7:30pm to 9:30pmWHERE: Shangri-La HotelIn this fun-filled PG13-

rated presentation loaded with cartoon clips, Mike Reiss, a four-time Emmy Award winning writer of the Simpsons show, tells you the stories and secrets from behind the show: dealing with celebrity guests, surprising critics (including George HW Bush) and even more surprising fans (Pope Benedict).

You do not have to love The Simpsons, or even have seen the show, to enjoy this presentation.

Mike Reiss has won some of the most prestigious awards in the world of entertainment, including four Emmys and a Peabody Award, during his twenty-six years writing for The Simpsons. He ran the show in Season 4, which Entertainment Weekly called “the greatest season of the greatest show in history.” In 2006, Mike received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Animation Writers Caucus.

Reiss has written jokes for such comedy legends as Johnny Carson, Joan Rivers, Garry Shandling and Pope Francis!

He is also an award-winning mystery writer, children’s book author and playwright.

A limited number of tickets are on sale at the American Chamber of Commerce in Qatar offices in West Bay. The price is QR280 for adults and QR180 for children under 15, which includes dinner.

Qatar Superstock 600 Championship Round 3

WHERE: Losail International CircuitTIME: 10amWHEN: March 23, 24 and 25Qatar SuperStock 600 is a new road racing

championship organised by Qatar Motor Motorcycle Federation and Losail Circuit Sports Club.

The championship will have 12 races over 6 rounds at the Losail International Circuit.

The riders are competing using one-make bikes that will be used for the rest of the season, a stocked 600cc bike. The organisers bill it as “a great chance for every competitor to test themselves and fi ght for the title in fair racing conditions and in a professional environment”.

Grandstand and Paddock area are open for free to all the spectators.

Al Gannas(For school students) Until March 31, 20179am–NoonAl Gannas SocietyFree ( For boys only, requires

registration) Al Gannas association is participating in

the “Our culture is a school” programme, by organising many activities for the students every Monday and Wednesday of the week.

These activities include explanations on hunting and related items tools, kinds of falcons and preys, in addition to workshop on how to carry a falcon, set a traditional tent (made of goat & camel heir), prepare traditional Arabic coff ee and start a fi re. For further details, visit katara.net

Qatar Music Academy(For school students) Until March 28, 201711am–2pmFree (Requires registration) Qatar Music Academy focuses on teaching

its students the principles of Arab and Western music. As part of the “Our Culture is a School” programme, Qatar Music Academy has off ered interested schools the opportunity to attend various workshops. These workshops will include an introduction to Arab and Western music and instruments, as well as the teachers giving a brief overview of the educational music programmes at the Academy. For further details, visit katara.net

3Sunday, February 26, 2017 GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYROUND & ABOUT

Compiled by Nausheen Shaikh. E-mail: [email protected], Events and timings subject to change


COMMUNITY COVER STORY

“(The) games require critical thinking”

SUNDAYCONVERSATION

CANDID: “The biggest challenge was how we would introduce the company to our target market,” says Mostafa Abdo, Co-Founder and Director of Adventure Rooms Qatar.

Adventure Rooms Qatar is

very thrilling, but not dangerous at all. It contains no horror

elements and requires no physical

exertion

By Anand Holla

As video games and virtual reality gaming increasingly reach out into the real world to off er seemingly

unparalleled experiences and feels, the pulsating realm of escape room games has grabbed the real-life game dynamics by the scruff of its neck from the get-go.

Community caught up with Mostafa Abdo, Co-Founder and Director of Adventure Rooms Qatar, which in its more than a year of run here in Doha has been fast gaining ground.

By off ering room escape games, how does Adventure Rooms Qatar provide a unique experience to guests?

Adventure Rooms is a real-life escape room game that was started

in March 2012 as a high school project by a science teacher, in Bern, Switzerland. It is considered among the pioneers of the new game concept and is one of the most famous escape games worldwide. Adventure Rooms Qatar is very thrilling, but not dangerous at all. It contains no horror elements and requires no physical exertion. It is an exciting recreational activity for friends, families, corporate team-building, students and tourists. It is also gaining popularity as a unique corporate team building event or out of class learning activity for students.

The basic idea is that your team has 60 minutes to fi nd its way out of a mysterious room. This is accomplished by using logic, searching for clues and using unique items in the room which may be used in very strange ways to help them through obstacles like locks and doors. Once your team makes it through all of the puzzles contained within the room they will fi nd the

— Mostafa Abdo, Co-Founder and Director of Adventure Rooms Qatar


COMMUNITYCOVER STORY

fi nal key, and unlock themselves to freedom. To solve the puzzles diff erent talents are required and everyone must do their part. Puzzles will enhance logic, critical thinking, ability to work under pressure, communication, leadership, team work and time management skills.

Tell us more about the nature of the game.

Have you watched movies like National Treasure or Indiana Jones and wanted to be in the protagonist’s shoes and decipher clues? Adventure Rooms lets you do just that. A combination of a scavenger hunt and a puzzle game, Adventure Rooms is for those who want video game style adventures with real-life experiences. The game while not really tough requires thinking out of the box. But sometimes while working in a group, views clash and with the big red countdown timer that seems to mock you, you may not think straight. And if you have been stuck on a clue for a long time and you hear an alarm going off , don’t panic; it’s just the game master giving you a hint on the screen. The possibilities for fun at Adventure Games Qatar are endless. It taps into

that desire for social and physical interaction that one cannot fi nd in solitary video games, while providing intellectual stimulation and a bit of thrill. The rush of the time crunch only adds to the excitement. So step into Indiana Jones’ shoes and try out one of the immersive games at Adventure Rooms Qatar.

What are the various services that Adventure Rooms off ers?

The concept of escape games, which is all about how you work as a team to solve an issue, while providing an exciting, fun activity for families or groups of friends, is also ideal as a corporate team-building event. We have many corporate fi rms that hold their team building events with us. Our games give corporate clients the opportunity to experience one-of-a-kind team building events that are designed to enhance communication, increase creative thinking and promote teamwork. We take their teams out of the usual working environment and provide an exciting experience that leaves their groups feeling closer and accomplished as a team. As an educational resource, Adventure Rooms off ers many advantages as

well. This unique experience will nurture and challenge students; bringing out the best in them. Potentials might also be discovered unknowingly. It allows for diff erent types of student engagement and student leadership that you don’t normally see in the classroom. Adventure Rooms games require team work, communication, and delegation, as well as critical thinking, attention to detail, and lateral thinking. If you want to organise a surprise birthday party, Adventure Rooms off ers that service as well, where instead of a key to escape out of the room, you fi nd a birthday cake at the end of the game. The games at Adventure Rooms are family-oriented and suitable also for children aged nine and above.

What are some of the highlights of Adventure Rooms here in Doha?

Adventure Rooms cater team building events to diff erent companies not only in our location but also in various places according to the clients’ needs. In fact, recently, we hosted an Adventure Rooms Treasure Hunt on Banana Island for a certain company. And now, we are

already planning for the next team event that we will host at one of the well-known hotels here in Doha.

What was the biggest challenge for you in setting up Adventure Rooms here, and why?

Since Adventure Rooms is the fi rst escape room game in Qatar, the biggest challenge was how we would introduce the company to our target market and what approach could we use so that people would embrace this new venture.

How many games does Adventure Rooms have? What’s the maximum number of participants you can accommodate?

We have four separate adventure games with unique themes which you can choose from — The Crazy Scientist (Medium Diffi culty), The Black Queen (Medium to Hard Diffi culty), The World Trip (Medium to Hard Diffi culty) and The Prison Break (Hard Diffi culty). These games are unrelated, fun, and have unique challenges that do not need to be completed in any particular order. Adventure Rooms can cater for groups of up to 14 people per game

through two game modes (standard and duel) which means that we can host up to 56 participants at the same time. The number of participants in the standard game mode is two to seven people and the group will face the challenge all together, trying to escape within 60 minutes available. The duel mode is intended for larger groups of eight to 14 people. The group is divided into two teams which simultaneously play against each other to see who can escape fi rst.

How many people have come to Adventure Rooms so far, and how do you see its future in the coming months?

In just more than a year, thousands of people from diff erent walks of life, young and old, have already visited Adventure Rooms and have been coming back to try all four games that we have. Since room escapes is rapidly gaining popularity, I believe now is the best time to roll out our fi fth game, which we are currently working on. With good management and the right attitude from our side, I am very positive that more people will be visiting us and experience our one-of-a-kind adventure games.

fi nal keey, anto freeddom. diff erennt taleeveryonne muswill enhhance loability tto workcommmuunicationwork aand time m

TeTell us more aof tthe game.

Have you watchNNational Treasure oeand wanted to be inshoes and decipher cRooms lets y

“Our games give corporate clients the opportunity to experience one-of-a-kind team building events that are designed to enhance communication, increase creative thinking and promote teamwork”

— Mostafa Abdo

THE PLATFORM: The Adventure Room villa on D-Ring Road, left, and handcuff s inside the rooms.

UP FOR IT: A group posing at Adventure Rooms. GAME: A group of excited participants ready to take up the challenge.


COMMUNITY

Nepali expats celebrate the festivals of Maghe Sankranti and Sonam Losar

A traditional performance at the NMA function. A dance performance at the NRMT function.

Tamang women in traditional clothes at the NRMT event.

By Usha Wagle Gautam

The Nepal Magar Association-Qatar (NMA) observed the festival of Maghe Sankranti with a cultural programme organised at Al Shamal City Garden recently.

The programme was chaired by Lilam Chidam Magar, chairman of the Non-Resident Nepali Federation of Indigenous and Ethnic Nationalities (NRNFIEN), and featured a number of cultural performances.

Maghe Sankranti or Maghi is observed on the fi rst day of Magh month of Nepalese calendar and generally falls towards the end of

January. Makar Sankranti is the beginning of the new holy seasons, which ended with the start of winter. This day marks the beginning of warmer and longer days. Simply said, Makar Sankranti is the end of winter and beginning of spring and harvest season.

The programme kicked off with a one-minute silence dedicated to the fi rst martyr of the country – Lakhan Thapa Magar. NMA adviser Bhimtara Magar, NRNFIEN former chairperson Shiyaram Chaudhary and NMA secretary Rabin Thapa Magar spoke about the festival during the programme.

NMA artistes performed a folk dance of Magar community. The artistes who performed cultural dances at the event included Hurra, Jhyaure, Kaura, Salaiju, Sorathi and Chudka. Popular singers Bijaya

Ranapali, Nanu Ghale and Rabin Thapa also performed.

The long tradition of selecting a king was also part of the programme. Resham Ale Magar was selected as the king for a year. In another competition of pot-breaking, Sharmila Basnet became the winner.

During the programme, NMA served the audience with special Maghe Sankranti cuisines, including sweet potatoes, pickle, fruits, and food.

NMA celebrates Maghe Sankranti each year. Similarly, the Non Resident Nepalese

Tamang Society (NRMT) celebrated their biggest festival of Sonam Losar – to mark their new year of 2853 – at Al Dana Resort recently.

The festival was chaired by Tharcha Lama, NRMT president. Nepal embassy counsellor

Girija Sharma was the guest of honour. The celebrations started with a welcome

song by Tirtha Thing Tamang, and a host of Nepal-based and Qatar-based dancers performed traditional Nepali dances in the programme.

The performers at the event included Roshan Fuhuba, Yubi Magrasa, Manmaya Bahiba, Bina Ghale, Kirti Tamang, Sahilesh Sahi Bijaa Gurung, Sita Lama, Sandeep Sipachan, actress Rupa Eas Ghale and comedian Bhatgata Mahita.

Selo – the core folk tunes of Tamang community – was performed by Bijaan Gurung and Ramila Pakhrin. Mhendo Maya – another core folk dance – was performed by Sita Lama, Rupa Ghale, Som Tamang and Kirti Tamang.


COMMUNITY

Players, fans give farewell to volleyball organiserVolleyball players and fans accorded a farewell to long-time Doha resident K P Premnath, who is leaving the country after a 36-year-long stint this week.Premnath is a well-known organiser of volleyball events amongst the Indian expatriate community. He was working in a shipping company.At a meeting held in Bin Omran on Friday evening, the players and well-wishers of the game recalled Premnath’s long association with volleyball at different levels and said his leaving Qatar would slow down the community’s involvement in the game. Premnath was also the founder of the Volleyball Loving Indians in Qatar.

At the meeting Aslam Edathil welcomed the participants. Faisal Koloth chaired the function. Jassim (Red Apple) presented a memento to Premnath in recognition of his contributions to the sport. On the occasion, the participants also pledged their solidarity with ex-Indian captain and Arjuna Award winner Tom Joseph, who has been served a show-cause notice by the Kerala State Volleyball Association as part of what the association termed as `disciplinary action’.Ashoka Udyogamandal, Fascher Keloth, Thahir, Raphy Kuttiadi, Rinish, Shameem Keloth, C Rasheed and C Jaleel spoke.

DMIS bids farewell to its Grade XII studentsThe Doha Modern Indian School (DMIS) bid farewell to its Grade 12 on a recent Saturday morning. The event was organised by their juniors, the Grade 11 students. The chief guest was Jayashankar Pillai, the Director of Taleb Group of School.The Grade 11 students rendered some emotional numbers along with their music teachers, Vincent and Dixon. The Grade 12 students received mementos and were shown a video compilation of their

moments at the school. As a sign of gratitude, the outgoing batch presented two large potted plants to the school. Two farewell speeches followed, delivered by Kevin Mathew of 12A and Neeliath Athira of 12B. The farewell party ended on a happy note with a “grand finale dance,” staged by the hosts. At the end of the cultural programme, all were invited to the farewell lunch sponsored by the school management.


COMMUNITYDicoTech celebrates Qatar National Sport DayDicoTech marked the Qatar National Sport Day with a number of sporting activities at the Pakistan International School. The sporting activities included football, basketball, volleyball, cricket, badminton, tennis, kabaddi, obstacle course and a 100m dash with prizes being awarded to winners and runners-up. The day ended with a lunch.

DPS-MIS hosts three-day mathematics workshopThe DPS-Modern Indian School hosted a three-day workshop enrichment programme entitled ‘Revivifying Mathematics’ under the aegis of the Delhi Public School Society, HRD, New Delhi, from February 18 to February 20. The aim of the workshop was to enhance the skills of the teachers with new techniques, driven by multi-dimensional research-based methodology and the use of technology. The resource persons were Anupal Sagar, Joint Director, HRDC, DPS Society, New Delhi, and Prof Dr Hukum Singh, Former Dean-Academics NCERT, New Delhi. The workshop commenced with an inaugural function. The chief guest was Dr Firdaus Wani, registrar and dean of Jamia Hamdard University, New Delhi. A large number of other guests also attended. The workshop focused on “loopholes in mathematics at middle and secondary school,

pedagogical importance of ideas involved in the binary system and Probability & Statistics”. General evaluation problems at middle and secondary levels were also discussed in detail. In the workshop, Dr Singh underscored the importance of hands-on activities to reinforce conceptual understanding among the learners. He also highlighted that mathematics not only helps in day-to-day situations but also develops logical reasoning, abstract thinking and imagination. The workshop ended on February 20 with a closing ceremony that featured a cultural programme. The resource persons were presented plaques and mementoes. The event was attended by representatives from DPS Bahrain, DPS Riyadh, DPS Kuwait, DPS Dubai, DPS Sharjah and DPS-MIS Doha.

Nazih Group opens new branch in Al KhorThe Nazih Group has established itself as a total beauty product supplier and a hair and beauty expert in the Mena region. Their leading products include OPI, Indola, Macadamia, Olaplex, Guinot, Dr. Renaud, GHD, Paul Mitchell and a lot more. Having five showrooms in Qatar, Nazih promises to be everybody’s one-stop-shop for all hair, skin and nail care needs. Key local bloggers, friends

from the media and salon customers gathered to see their newest showroom in Al Khor. Just like all other showrooms in Doha, their newest spot in Al Khor has a wide range of beauty products – definitely a convenient shop for residents in the northern area. Hurry and check out their new showroom, while enjoying their “Buy 1 Get 1 Free” off er until March 25.


COMMUNITY

Worldwide sales of Toyota hybrids surpass 10mn unitsT

oyota Motor Corporation announced recently that cumulative global sales of its hybrid vehicles reached 10.05 million

units as of January 31, surpassing the 10 million-unit mark . More than a numerical milestone, this demonstrates the staying power of a technology that is now emerging as a mainstream solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants.

Helping to mitigate the environmental eff ects of automobiles has long been a priority for Toyota. Based on the stance that environmentally-friendly vehicles can only truly have a signifi cant positive impact if they are widely used, Toyota has encouraged the mass-market adoption of hybrid vehicles across the globe. Toyota launched the Coaster Hybrid EV minibus in August 1997 and the Prius – the world’s fi rst mass-produced hybrid passenger vehicle – in December of the same year. Since then, Toyota hybrid vehicles have received tremendous support from consumers around the world.

Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Representative of Middle East & North Africa Representative Offi ce, Toyota Motor Corporation, said, “We are grateful to each and every one of our customers who has supported us in our journey towards sustainable mobility and helped us achieve this important milestone. The steady increase in

hybrid sales refl ects the worldwide appeal of hybrid vehicles backed by Toyota’s signifi cant eff orts in developing ever better cars. Our hybrid technology delivers not only great fuel effi ciency and low CO2 emissions, but it also provides a smooth, comfortable and engaging driving experience, which leads to the highest satisfaction rates. We remain committed to continue working hand-in-hand with our customers as we look to tackle global environmental issues and create cars that exceed customer expectations.”

As reductions in greenhouse gas emissions increasingly became a problem of global magnitude, the fi rst-generation Prius represented

Toyota’s response to the resource and environment-related issues of the twenty-fi rst century. The Prius development team was convinced that, whatever the results of their eff orts, the development of a hybrid vehicle was essential for the future, and that they had to do what was necessary rather than what was simply possible. With this in mind, the team unveiled the world’s fi rst mass-production hybrid passenger vehicle to the world.

The Prius proved so popular with customers that it became a byword for an ‘environmentally-friendly vehicle.’ The Toyota Hybrid System (THS), which was incorporated in the fi rst-generation Prius, evolved into THS II in 2003,

and was thereafter rolled out in a wide range of Toyota vehicles. The fourth-generation Prius, which became the fi rst vehicle to be built on Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA), was developed not only with environmental performance in mind, but also with outstanding driving performance for customers wanting to purchase a car that was fun to drive.

Since Toyota launched its fi rst hybrid vehicle 20 years ago, the circumstances surrounding environmentally-friendly vehicles have changed dramatically. The growing popularity of the Prius led to the creation of a new customer standard of choosing cars based on their environmental performance.

As the number of companies developing and launching hybrid vehicles increased, so a new segment of ‘hybrid vehicles’ was established. In addition, now that customers around the world are opting to purchase hybrid vehicles and other fuel-effi cient vehicles, the entire automobile industry has been able to contribute to the solution of global environmental problems.

As of January 31, 2017, Toyota estimates that the use of Toyota’s HVs in lieu of conventional gasoline-powered vehicles of similar size and driving performance has resulted in approximately 77 million fewer tons of CO2 emissions and has saved approximately 29 million kilolitres of gasoline.

Toyota announced the Toyota Environmental Challenge 2050 in October 2015, setting challenges that it will undertake to help reduce the negative impacts of automobiles on the global environment to as close to zero as possible, and to contribute to the creation of a sustainable society. Toyota has positioned hybrid technologies as core environmental technologies for the 21st century.

Hybrid encompasses all of the component technologies necessary for the development of environmentally-friendly vehicles, from battery electric to fuel cell hydrogen vehicles, which facilitate the use of diff erent fuel combinations.

The Toyota Prius.

Reggae Nights return at The St. Regis Doha

The EarthKry Band.

MOTORING

The St. Regis Doha, the fi nest address in Qatar, has confi rmed the return of its popular reggae nights at Oyster Bay with the Hotel’s new resident band, The EarthKry Band, set to take centre

stage from Thursday, February 23, 2017. Oyster Bay at The St. Regis Doha is the perfect setting to enjoy the energetic beats and rhythms of reggae music while savouring Caribbean inspired dishes, snacks and refreshing beverages against the cool white sand, starlight sky and views of the Arabian Gulf.

The St. Regis Doha continues to diversify Doha’s music scene by off ering high-quality music, lively performances and delicious food from all four corners of the globe, with the return of reggae nights at Oyster Bay, the latest in its off ering. The EarthKry Band will be bringing their signature sounds to Doha, a wholesome fusion of Roots, Reggae, Soul and Rock genres, for a fresh, universal sound.

The four piece band includes seasoned keyboard player Phillip McFarlane, up-beat

drummer Kieron Cunningham, and energetic bass guitarist Kamardo Blake. The EarthKry Band began their musical journey in 2012 and since then have drawn inspiration from Reggae legends including Bob Marley and The Wailers, as well as The Beatles, John Holt, Black Uhuru and Steel Pulse.

Music lovers will be able to enjoy The EarthKry Band every Thursday and Friday night from 7pm until 2am, which will include a live performance by the band from 8:30pm until 1am.

Speaking ahead of the return of Reggae nights at Oyster Bay, Tareq Derbas, Area General Manager of The St. Regis Doha, said: “We are incredibly proud of the amazing talent that we will have performing live every Thursday and Friday evening, to mark the successful return of our much beloved Reggae nights at The St. Regis Doha. This along with delicious Caribbean inspired cuisines and a relaxing atmosphere, will make Oyster Bay the place to be every weekend with a combination of world-class musicians, live performances and stand out food and service.”


COMMUNITY MOTORING

Lexus introduces IS 200t with ‘innovative’ 2.0-litre turbo engine

The IS 200t stands out with its aggressive yet elegant presence and the brand’s unmistakable spindle grille, L-theme LED

daytime running lights and dynamic bodylines. It combines multi-link rear suspension with fi nely tuned electronic power steering to deliver a rousing driving experience. The IS line also includes the IS 350 while the IS 200t is a replacement for the original IS 250 model which has been discontinued.

“The IS 200t sets a new benchmark for driving pleasure, with an irresistible blend of heightened performance, contemporary luxury and breathtaking design. The 2.0-litre turbocharged engine combined with the 8-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission will allow the driver to enjoy the exhilarating ride of the IS 200t in line with our eff orts to always provide a ‘fun to drive’ experience. We appreciate the support of our customers in the region and look forward to providing them with yet another unique driving experience from Lexus in the form of the new IS 200t.” The Lexus IS’ engine variants include the 3.5-litre V6 engine with D4-S direct and port fuel injection producing 312hp at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 38.5kg-m/4800 rpm. The second engine variant is a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder with a maximum output of 241hp/5800 rpm and a maximum torque of 35.7kg-m/1650-4400 rpm.

Powerful engine and superb driving dynamics

The IS 200t’s innovative combination of engine technologies has been designed to provide a high level of responsiveness with minimal turbo lag and enhanced low speed torque. The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine delivers 241hp with a maximum torque of 35.7kg-m. The four-into-two exhaust manifold system pairs cylinders according

to their expansion or compression stroke. Acting in conjunction with the highly-effi cient, twin-scroll turbocharger, this innovative manifold structure prevents interference between the exhaust gasses from each cylinder, generating high torque across the widest possible rev range.

The engine further employs an air-to-liquid intercooler mounted directly to the engine to signifi cantly reduce the intake volume downstream of the turbocharger, minimising turbo lag for a highly responsive performance. The water-cooled intercooler provides strong advantages in starting off acceleration over an air-to-air type alternative. The acceleration curve prioritises torque delivery at low speeds. The new 2.0-litre turbo engine is also remarkably light and compact. It is cast with low nickel content heat resistant steel, and featuring a resin cylinder head cover, intake manifold and intake pipes.

The IS 200t also received the 8-speed Sport Direct Shift transmission with paddle shifts. The transmission automatically downshifts during hard braking before a corner then holds a lower gear through the corner for best control, and then selects the most suitable gear on corner exit to give the driver greater throttle response. The rear wheel drive IS 200t has the capability of varying its gear shifting in line with G-forces.

The Drive Mode Select feature in the 2016 Lexus IS 200t can tailor powertrain response and other settings to suit conditions or the mood. The Normal Mode off ers relaxing driving performance within the city and on the highway. The Eco Mode off ers controlled driving performance for optimum fuel economy, while the Sport/Sport S Mode off ers a sporty driving feeling and excellent acceleration performance. An additional driving

mode, Sport S+ for F SPORT models only uses an Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) system and refi nes the powertrain, so the driver can fi ne tune the ride for even more stability and fun when driving.

Enhanced fuel effi ciency The IS 200t is available with an

advanced fuel injection system – D-4ST (Direct injection 4-stroke gasoline engine Superior version with Turbo) – which combines a high pressure fuel system for injection directly into the cylinders with a low pressure system for injection into the ports. Injection is split between the direct and port injectors according to the engine load, optimising fuel combustion in all driving situations to enhance both low-speed torque and fuel economy.

This advanced fuel injection system works in combination with turbocharging technology to create a high level of compatibility by optimising the shape of the cylinder head intake ports and the piston tops, and turbo ‘boost control’.

Optimising torque throughout the engine rev range and allowing the engine to start in the Otto cycle and yet run in the more fuel effi cient Atkinson cycle, the new Lexus Turbo features innovative dual variable valve timing technology which adopts VVT-i to the exhaust valves and VVT-iW to the intake valves, but also delivers wide open throttle performance. The late intake valve closing of the Atkinson cycle reduces pumping losses and boosts fuel economy. VVT-iW incorporates a mid-position lock which enables the Atkinson cycle to be maintained without sacrifi cing starting performance.

Bold design with luxurious interiors

The power of design to create an emotional reaction has never been more apparent than in the IS 200t.

The exquisitely crafted form of this exceptional vehicle will evoke feelings of desire, anticipation and adrenaline-charged excitement. The IS 200t looks fast and powerful, even standing still. From the front, the unique trademark spindle grille is elegant but aggressive and powerful. From the side, the lines of the car fl ow smoothly from the door sill up to the tail lights in the rear which are angled down and out, with the rear spoiler integrated into the trunk lid’s trailing edge.

The exterior of the IS 200t has been intelligently designed to not only look incredible but also for optimum performance thanks to its aerodynamic lines. Flowing curves across the bonnet and fenders also optimise airfl ow. Even the roof panels have been brazed together ensuring there is no need for gutter mouldings in the roofl ine. The sharp three-dimensional design of the front and rear bumpers also assist air fl ow. As air is drawn into the corners of the front bumper, it is then redirected into the wheel arches, reducing wind turbulence and improving brake cooling. All of this ensures reduced wind noise for a quieter cabin and improved control at higher speeds. In addition, less drag also means

improved fuel consumption. The L-shaped LED daytime running lights are positioned just underneath the headlamp cluster drawing the eye to the side and rearwards in a subtle but sophisticated way.

Drivers will love the interior with its cockpit-like design. The multiway adjustable front seats are supportive and secure. The dashboard has an operation zone and a display zone, reducing visual clutter and allowing drivers better situational awareness and control. The cabin’s contemporary lighting, premium materials, and other features suggest the highest quality and luxury. The long wheelbase allows for more rear seat space and luggage capacity.

A unique and very stylish Electrostatic Temperature Control Switch enables quick, intuitive operation of air conditioning. The Electro Multi Vision Navigation (EMVN) system with Remote Touch Interface (RTI) features Speed Limit Display and Route Trace Registration.

F SPORT – The ultimate performance machine

Customers can now turn the excitement up another level and get behind the wheel of the race-inspired F SPORT version of the IS 200t and the IS 350. From the aggressive F SPORT front mask to the unique interior attributes, the soul of the Lexus LFA Supercar can clearly be felt.

Its exclusive spindle grille is eye-catchingly bolder. The bottom corners of the front bumpers feature aerodynamic intakes that not only look great but enhance brake cooling. The unique 18-inch wheels’ Y-spoke design recalls the LFA. Interior trim detailing includes an F SPORT steering wheel and shift knob, and aluminium pedals and scuff plates with the Lexus logo. Both the front and rear suspension systems and the Electric Power Steering (EPS) are exclusively tuned. Optional Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) controls steering angle in accordance with vehicle speed and driver operation to realise better control at all speeds and improve driving feel during lane-changing and navigating winding roads.

The Lexus IS 200t.

Engine of the Lexus IS 200t.


COMMUNITYINFOGRAPHIC


COMMUNITY PUZZLES/CARTOONS

Adam

Pooch Cafe

Garfield

Bound And Gagged

Codeword

Wordsearch

Every letter of the alphabet is used at least once. Squares with the same number in have the same letter in. Work out which number represents which letter.

Puzz

les

cour

tesy

: Puz

zlec

hoic

e.co

m

The Old West

Sudoku

Sudoku is a puzzle based

on a 9x9 grid. The grid is

also divided into nine (3x3)

boxes. You are given a

selection of values and to

complete the puzzle, you

must fill the grid so that

every column, every anone

is repeated.

AMBUSHBOOT HILLBOUNTYCOACHCORRALCOWBOYDEPUTY

DRIFTERFAST DRAWFORTGUNFIGHTHIDEOUTHORSEOUTLAW

POSSEPRAIRIERANCHRANGERREDEYEROPESADDLE

SALOONSETTLERSHERIFFSPURSTRAILWAGON


COMMUNITYPUZZLES

Colouring

Answers

Wordsearch Codeword

ACROSS1. Put out, mind about the arrest

(7)5. Uninteresting in taste, I had

found (7)9. Knock one down, have to

leave fast (5)10. What the vandals in the art

gallery do? (3,3,3)11. When put back, will go round

in space (6)12. Cupid deceives the pretty

girls (8)14. She wrote the one about the

heartless niece (5)15. Given a drink, he becomes

inflexible (9)18. Rather stupid? That’s going

too far, isn’t it? (1,3,5)20. The ice isn’t firm (5)22. Pop, somehow, into a position

that’s suitable (8)24. Put the floor covers back

again in the water (6)26. He won’t drink tea in bars!

That would be ridiculous! (9)27. Change the rope for the

Cockney (5)28. Give your approval at last, or

half seem to (7)29. The lever from ‘27’ Ed

tampered with (7)

DOWN1. The char isn’t working when I

go in for her (9)2. The two worried pets I carried

in the tube (7)3. ‘Suffered’ didn’t go far enough

(9)4. Every penny goes on fruit (4)5. How quickly it can be seen

they’re both right? (2,3,5)6. Because there’s something

wrong, came, taking the morning off (5)

7. The bit left I get on with (7)8. The man is followed home (5)13. Idiot! I can set off to get help!

(10)16. The very good wood, treats

differently (5-4)17. About some air composed in

it: a well-known song (4,5)19. The little scamp, anyhow,

does put it on (7)21. Made a fuss when about a

quarter were put in boxes (7)22. Hand out tea and it does

diminish (5)23. Step back when I take the

animals out (5)25. Shot right through at a fast

pace (4)

Super Cryptic Clues

Yesterday’s Solutions

Across: 1 At full stretch; 8 Earnest; 9 Driller; 11 Privet; 13 Fire trap; 15 Reeds; 16 Account; 18 Rostrum; 19 Susie; 21 Cat’s-tail; 23 Strait; 25 Daubing; 26 Pickled; 28 Chestnut brown.

Down: 2 Termite; 3 Use; 4 Loth; 5 Tidy income; 6 Exile; 7 Culprit; 8 Experienced; 10 Represented; 12 Eases; 14 Carrying-on; 17 Upset; 18 Retouch; 20 Swallow; 22 Tails; 24 Spot; 27 Cur.

ARIESMarch 21 — April 19

CANCERJune 21 — July 22

LIBRASeptember 23 — October 22

CAPRICORNDecember 22 — January 19

TAURUSApril 20 — May 20

LEOJuly 23 — August 22

SCORPIOOctober 23 — November 21

AQUARIUSJanuary 20 — February 18

GEMINIMay 21 — June 20

VIRGOAugust 23 — September 22

SAGITTARIUSNovember 22 — December 21

PISCESFebruary 19 — March 20

Now that Venus the planet of money and love has set up her beauty

shop and matchmaking site in your sign and is there for the long

haul (through early June), set your sights on your prize Aries and

launch yourself at it.

If you feel as if someone is being unfair to you today, call them out

on it. Ask them why they are acting that way and what they feel you

have done to make them act so.

If you ask for help today, don’t be surprised if your so called friends

are too busy to give you more than a few minutes. Venus and Mars in

busy Aries this month and your one on one relationship zone could

mean that the people around you are super self absorbed.

Mercury the planet of communication and clear thinking spends his

last few days in your sign before moving into your second house of

money next week. Make sure you speak up now!

If you don’t think you’re up to doing something today, then don’t do

it. Trust in your gut and intuition bulls and remember, there’s always

tomorrow.

February is a very important time indeed for you Leos – a time for

you to prepare for the next 6 months before the Sun enters your

sign. You’re at the halfway point right now. What have you done so

far?

Don’t oppose something or someone just because you’re in a bit of a

mood today Scorpios. Even if you don’t agree with it, let them go on

their merry way and keep out of it.

With 3 planets in your busy zone, this is the month to really kickstart

your year. You have got green lights across the cosmic board right

now. Go for it.

Don’t let a friend railroad you into doing something you really don’t

want to do today twins. Stand firm, stand resolute and simply say

“NO” – a word you find diff icult to say at times.

There is no time like the present Virgos to make a decision to make

some diff icult but very necessary upgrades to your life. As February

kicks into high gear, what does your intuition tell you needs to be

done?

Sometimes turning a blind eye to someone or something is easier

than getting all caught up in the theatrics of whatever is going on. As

much as you love being involved in everything, you might do well to

steer clear today.

Stop and check in with someone today before making a big decision

Pisces. You may just be on the completely wrong track and need to

be redirected.

Deciding to scale down is driven by many reasons – the quest for less maintenance, parents recently becoming

empty nesters, an increase in the cost of living or simply looking to live a greener lifestyle. However, having less square footage doesn’t need to mean skimping on style or function.

If you are planning on downsizing, here are four tips for thoughtful small space home design.

Think durable material that can handle double duty.

As people continue to downsize, it is important to maximise space by having rooms work double duty. If your home isn’t large enough to accommodate an eating area and an offi ce, have your kitchen island work as both.

To keep up with daily wear, such as sliding pots and pans, plates, spills and more, look to a high performance countertop such as Neolith. This material is scratch, heat and stain-resistant. It’s also non-porous and hygienic, so there’s no need to worry about cross-contamination on offi ce papers by day and food by night.

Less is more.According to popular belief, it

is better to fi ll a space with several small pieces of furniture. However, design savvy professionals and homeowners are turning this idea on its head by using fewer, yet larger pieces to furnish living rooms, bedrooms and dining rooms. By doing so, this creates an optical illusion of space and adds a designer’s touch.

Make a statement.When designing a small space

like a bathroom, thoughtfully selected wall colours can make a huge diff erence. To really make a statement, think beyond paint with unexpected textures, designs and materials such as Neolith sintered stone in the La Boheme design. This decor is an accurate interpretation of Lebanese-inspired cedar that adds visual interest and is much easier to maintain than its natural counterpart.

Bring only what you love. It may seem obvious, but when

moving or scaling back on your next home, be sure to take an inventory of everything you own, and only bring items that make you happy. Without the extra storage space larger homes aff ord, downsizing is a great opportunity to really ask yourself, “Do

I love this and do I need it?” When you have only the possessions you love surrounding you in your new space, it

will automatically feel bigger.

©Brandpoint

Thoughtful home design: four tips totransform small space


COMMUNITY LIFESTYLE/HOROSCOPE

Sunday, February 26, 2017 15GULF TIMES

COMMUNITYSHOWBIZ

Foreign success worth the risk, says Deepika

Actress Deepika Padukone is more than happy at the success of her debut Hollywood fi lm xXx: Return of Xander Cage. She says that stepping out of her comfort zone and getting a good response for it, makes it worth taking the risk.

“...For me, what really got me emotional was the way India embraced the fi lm xXx.... I think the way people embraced my fi lm, even the fact the way I have spoken in the fi lm, all things were received very well and that’s what makes me feel happy,” Deepika said at the launch of Gillette Venus Breeze.

xXx: Return of Xander Cage resulted in a $308 million and-still- counting raking (global cumulative fi gure), according to sources close to the movie’s production house.

“To step out of your comfort zone and to work in a territory which is absolutely unfamiliar and not knowing what the end result might be... but then to actually see that getting translated into this kind of love and appreciation, it makes me like... it’s worth taking all the risk,” she said.

Directed by D J Caruso, xXx: Return Of Xander Cage, also stars Vin Diesel. —IANS

By Moira Macdonald

A Seattleite will be at the Academy Award ceremony tonight, in the latest chapter of a nearly 30-year story. Constanza Romero Wilson, wife of the late

playwright August Wilson, will be on hand representing her husband, who received a posthumous nomination for his screenplay to Fences.

Based on his Tony Award-winning play, the Fences screenplay was written by Wilson in the late 1980s and fi nally came to the screen, directed by and starring Denzel Washington, more than 10 years after Wilson’s death in Seattle in 2005.

“I think that he would be ecstatic to have the movie out, for his work to have that kind of representation in Hollywood,” Romero Wilson said last week by phone from Los Angeles, where she’s visiting for a round of award ceremonies and events leading up to the Oscars. (A Seattle resident since the early 1990s, she reported with dismay that it was raining in LA)

“I think that he wasn’t really that caught up with stardom or any of that stuff . He had a razor-sharp focus on his own work. But he would have been excited about the fact that millions of people now have seen Fences — more people in America have seen Fences than ever came to all those shows on Broadway. He would also have loved the fact that this story has touched so many people.”

Romero Wilson described the Fences fi lm, which received three additional Oscar nominations, as uncompromising in its celebration of Wilson’s poetic dialogue. “The language is front and centre. Denzel started from a point of view of paying homage

to August, and of making him proud. And (Washington) spoke about just having and feeling love, throughout the process of Fences — for each other, for the characters, for August, and for paying him respect. I think

he would have loved (the fi lm), no question about it.”

She recalled the origin of Washington’s involvement, at a long-ago meeting at the Wilsons’ Capitol Hill home. (Funny, she

noted, how when Denzel Washington comes to visit, “suddenly it was very popular” for the neighbours to sit out on their porches). Now the actor/director is shepherding a massive project: bringing the remaining nine of Wilson’s American Century Cycle of plays to the screen, as part of a contract with HBO.

“I just felt that, with his understanding and his deep conviction to tell these stories, the type of artist that he is — he’s at the highest level, in my estimation. I felt that he had the right sensibility,” Romero Wilson said. Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom will be adapted next; she envisions that each play may have a diff erent approach.

“I would never want to have all these plays on a conveyor belt. Some are more suited for the big screen, some are more suited for the small screen. We’ll take each one as it comes.”

As another long-term project, Romero Wilson is working on publishing a collection of her husband’s poetry, and hopes to see more productions of Wilson’s one-man autobiographical play How I Learned What I Learned. (The play, performed by Wilson himself at Seattle Rep in 2003, has been adapted so that other actors can play the role.)

But in the immediate short term, she’s gearing up for Oscar night — “I’m still trying to fi gure out what I’m going to wear!” — and thinking about what she might say if an acceptance speech might be called for. Representing someone who “was very outspoken and literate,” she knows that her words matter, and she won’t be unprepared.

“What I want to convey is that August was one of the greatest writers we have ever had in this country — black, white, any colour — and how universal his stories are. And how all that people have to do to access those stories is read the plays. I’m just so proud of him.” —The Seattle Times/TNS

I think he’d be ecstatic, says Wilson’s widow

HAPPY: Deepika Padukone. CANDID: Kangana Ranaut.

Kangana Ranaut says she’s shortchanged in Rangoon

National Award-winning actress Kangana Ranaut says she felt shattered when a few of her important scenes were edited by the makers of her forthcoming fi lm Rangoon.

Directed by Vishal Bhardwaj, Rangoon, also starring Saif Ali Khan and Shahid Kapoor, released on Friday. It is set during World War II.

“I never thought people would appreciate my performance as many of my scenes were cut. They were important for my graph,” Kangana said in a statement.

“When I came to know that a lot of my scenes were cut, my hopes were shattered. I thought people would just fi nd my work average. But in spite of that people like it so much so I’m very happy,” she added.

Earlier, it was revealed that Kangana’s character in the fi lm is loosely based on actress-stuntwoman Fearless Nadia.

However, in an interview with IANS, Kangana said: “I think there is some legal hassle around that. First of all, we cannot comment on a matter when it’s already in the court, but we can assure you that it (my character) is not based on any living or dead person.” — IANS

PRIDE: “August was one of the greatest writers we have ever had,” says Constanza Romero Wilson.


COMMUNITY

Endangered antelope in Mongolia faces extinction

About 10,000 saiga antelope lived in Mongolia before the epidemic began, experts say. That number is down to about 60 per cent and counting.

By Simina Mistreanu

A critically endangered species of antelope in Mongolia is facing the threat of extinction due to a virus that

has wiped out 40 per cent of its population after being passed on from sheep and goats.

More than 3,880 saiga antelope have been found dead in the Great Lakes Depression of western Mongolia since late December.

Their deaths have been attributed to a virus called PPR, or Peste des Petits Ruminants, which was fi rst discovered in Mongolian livestock in September and is believed to have spilled over to the saiga.

Workers regularly burn the antelope carcasses to prevent the spread of the disease.

Now wildlife experts are concerned the virus, combined

with harsh winter conditions and scarce food, might spell doom for the species.

About 10,000 saiga antelope lived in Mongolia before the epidemic began, experts say. That number is down to about 60 per cent and counting.

“The saiga antelope is already under threat from poaching pressure and competition with livestock for access to pasture and nutritional resources,” Amanda Fine, a veterinarian and associate director with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) in Asia, said.

“The additional impact of a disease like PPR, which could reduce the population by 90 per cent, is an extinction risk and this die-off must be addressed with that likelihood in mind.”

The virus causes pneumonia and alters the animals’ gastrointestinal tract. They die a few days after having shown signs of dehydration and weakness. Videos provided by

the World Wildlife Fund Mongolia show antelopes struggling to breathe.

This is the fi rst time both antelope and livestock in Mongolia have been exposed to PPR, so their immune system was not equipped to fi ght the virus, Fine said.

The antelope shared the pasture more closely with sheep and goats during winter, thus becoming infected.

The virus likely entered Mongolia from neighbouring China, as it’s related to a strain from a Chinese outbreak in 2013-2014, experts say. It is not transmissible to people.

Vaccination of Mongolian livestock against PPR has largely been “uncoordinated, sporadic and ineff ective,” Bouna Diop, secretary of the PPR Global Eradication Programme, said.

The programme was set up by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) last year, with the

aim of eradicating PPR globally by 2030.

The cost estimate for its fi rst fi ve-year phase is 996 million dollars.

The implications of the PPR outbreak could extend well beyond the tawny-coated antelope to aff ect other wildlife and ultimately people’s livelihoods.

FAO and OIE experts who visited Mongolia recently found that the virus has spread to two other wildlife species, the ibex and the goitered gazelle.

Diop said PPR could spread further into central and eastern Mongolian regions, disrupting the ecosystem and posing socioeconomic and food security problems.

“This is a true international emergency, threatening the health of rural people through impacts on food security and livelihoods,” she said.

More than a third of Mongolians depend on livestock to live. The

country exports large quantities of live animals, meat, milk and cashmere wool.

There’s already evidence of the PPR occurring in yak and domestic Bactrian camels.

FAO and OIE, with support from WCS, have established a crisis management centre and animal health rapid response team in Mongolia. The team collects samples from dead saiga, conducts necropsies and provides recommendations to local authorities.

However, donors have yet to fund the joint FAO/OIE livestock vaccination programme, said Richard Kock, a professor of emerging diseases at the Royal Veterinary College in London, who is part of the rapid response team.

“It is a great pity,” Kock said, “as the spread and expansion of the virus has been apparent since the beginning of the millennium, but it aff ects poor people, and they don’t have much infl uence.” –DPA

D 16 C—22 C TODAY PUZZLES LIFESTYLE OROSCOPE New game

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