anniversary - Feel Your Tempo

2011
ANNIVERSARY
VIDEO COMPETITION
PAGE 14
ANNIVERSARY ISSUE • OCTOBER
BY TEMPO & NEW YORK FILM ACADEMY
Tempo turns two years this month, and what a journey it’s been! We started with baby steps in our first year, but have taken immense strides in our second.
The last few weeks have been exceptionally eventful! We wrapped up the “I LOVE UAE” video competition with a big bang, declaring the winners of the contest
and talking about ways to nurture our homegrown talent (see the main feature on page 14). With the UAE’s National Day around the corner, Tempo still casts its
spotlight on celebrations of the UAE’s big 40th anniversary; you can see it in this issue’s roundtable with Manar (on page 22) and can check out the outpouring
of dedications on our website (www.tempoplanet.com).
The “I LOVE UAE” competition showed us two things: how much enthusiasm and energy there is in the community (not to mention boundless creativity), and
how it is possible to get organisations and companies to work together for the larger good. Tempo embraces partnership and exciting collaboration, and we are
always open to big ideas.
On the subject of big ideas Tempo launches this month the “Heart and Soul Community Bazaar” which will be held at the One to One Hotel on October 29. This
is a family event focused on bringing together the capital’s communities on lazy Saturdays once a month, and on getting to know each other. It also reflects
our belief in the principles of recycling and re-using, so if you have stuff you don’t need book your table early, otherwise stop by for fun bargain shopping and
to say hello.
Tempo looks forward to an incredible year ahead, filled with more community and togetherness.
Sana Bagersh
Managing Editor
[email protected]
letters to the editor
uspace
what’s hot
the bottom bottom line
tech talk | game hedz
tempo top 10 songs
making a difference
city bites | dishes for dummies
my style blueprint
cover story
youth talk
resuscitation theatre
04
05
06
07
08
09
10
11
12
14
16
17
ADDRESS
To reach editorial at Abu Dhabi Tempo email: editorial@tempoplanet.
com. If you need to find out where you can pick up your copy call: 02 667
3349 or check out the list of Tempo distribution points on our website.
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18
20
22
24
25
26
28
29
30
31
32
33
people calendar
riding the wave | got phunk
round table
social meets
doc in the house | live well
dedications to tempo
articulate | just handcrafted
sudden deception
media
tamakkan | social net
yank in sandland | just a thought
horoscope
DISCLAIMER
Tempo is a publication of BrandMoxie. Although Tempo Magazine
does its best to ensure the authenticity and accuracy of its contents,
the publisher cannot accept any responsibility for errors, mistakes and
inaccuracies. The publisher reserves the rights of this product and no
part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any means
without the permission of the publisher.
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MANAGING EDITOR
Sana Bagersh
FEATURES EDITOR
Alma Kadragic
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Sharon Carvalho
MAGAZINE DESIGN
Mark De Castro
WEB DESIGN
Ricklen Abellera
MARKETING COORDINATOR
Manjul Abhishek
Laskar Laipubam
DISTRIBUTION COORDINATOR
Melaku Muluneh
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
Angeli Castillo
Dave Solomon
Neena Rai
Preethi Janice D’Sa
Shamma Al Suwaidi
Alia Youssef
Lean Abadi
Shahid Saeed
Layla Ezzedeen
Blakniss
Manar Al Hinai
Ahmad Samir
Rohith Bhat
Randy Parker
Published by }
for Blackberry this is done through BBM
for iPhone download BeeTag or Neo Reader
www.tempoplanet.com
I attended the “I LOVE UAE” event and I loved every minute
of the energy and the enthusiasm of the competitors, the
audience and the judges - Dina Reyes
Cafe Arabia in Ramadan is so beautiful! I love it, and its atmosphere. Thank you for the recommendation - Azza El Masri
Another great issue :) Thank you for the great work Tempo team! You’re fabulous! - Manar Al Hinai
Tempo please make sure you distribute in the universities. I go
to NYU and sometimes I see Tempo magazines and sometimes
they’re all gone - Mariam Ahmed
I saw my article in Tempo! :) Thanks! - Lean Abadi
The Sennara review in Tempo was great! Thanks for coming
over and trying out our new restaurant!
- One to One Hotel
Happy Birthday fellow Libran! You have come a long way. Well done. - Priyanka Tawde
Omgee! Happy 2nd anniversary TEMPO! Keep up the good work! - Jason D’souza
I really like reading
Tempo magazine. I think
I’ve gotten every issue
since i first found out
about it. It’s a good way
for me to see up and
coming or established
artists, musicians or just
the latest news. And
it’s FREE so that’s even
better! Keep it up guys! :)
- Tino Mupambo
Tempo has been
an inspiration for
the youth who love
to write and just
express themselves by
giving words to their
feelings. And it’s very
nice that you guys give
them a chance to put
it on paper. Love what
you guys are doing. God
Bless! - Ethan E
QUESTION
There is no magazine that could compare to
Tempo, as no magazine can capture the details
so concisely. Keep up the great work!
- Fatima Aluzri
Looking forward to reading more of Bhat’s articles. I
see my thoughts written on paper whenever I read his
articles - Sean Brent
It’s only been 2 years and this is the result! Tempo looks
AWESOME! Happy 2nd birthday, Tempo :) - Simone Carvalho
RESULTS OF LAST MONTH’S VOTE:
Q: What form of social media do you use the most?
DO YOU THINK THERE WILL BE
ANOTHER RECESSION?
a) Yes, I think so
b) No, I think it’s just talk
c) I don’t really care, it doesn’t affect
me anyway
Tempo has done a great job in its magazine, and gone
beyond just reporting. The sky’s the limit Tempo!
- Hussain Aluzri
Go to tempoplanet to vote
76%
8%
8%
8%
SAID
FACEBOOK
SAID
TWITTER
SAID
GOOGLE +
SAID
OTHER
( I wonder what “other” is)
SHAMIMSCENE
ON GETTING A SKIN FACIAL
SHAMIM: I got to experience the Aqua
Radiance facial at the Kaya Skin Clinic.
Actually, when it comes to my skin,
I am usually not that big on facials
however the aqua radiance facial is
all about air and water; two essential
elements that keep the skin looking
youthful and beautiful.
THE START OF A NEW ACADEMIC YEAR:
ADVICE TO FRIENDS
By Lean Abadi
So here’s my beauty experience on
video….check it out.
CAMPUS VIEW
By Rohith Krishna Bhat
TOP 10 CRASS SONGS OF MY GENERATION
AKA: SONGS THAT INCREASED THE NUMBER OF PERVS I KNOW
Crass songs: Those with bad words, racial slurs and themes about women so bad that
our grandmothers would surely have washed our mouths out with soap and antiseptic
for humming them under our breath. This is a list dedicated to the songs we hide in
our iPods ; listen to when no one’s around, yet publicly condemn (like the good little
hypocrites we are).
Number 10: Tig o’l bitties by “Your Favourite Martian”| Now I’m 100% sure that most of you
have never even heard of this song but soon this 2011 web phenomenon will be educating young
minds everywhere about the simple universal truth... Like Godzilla said, “Size Does Matter” (it was
either that or RAWWWW, but I thought I’d go with this)
Number 9: The Santa Claus song | Although technically there’s nothing dirty about this song, it’s
still a gentle reminder to kids everywhere why Santa only comes once a year when daddy’s away and
why he never uses the front door.
Number 8: Shake Your Bonbons by Ricky Martin | This was one of golden shower boy’s greatest
hits during the time, teaching kids everywhere that bonbons are not just a tasty French dessert.
But sadly (read, gladly) this song, like the former Latin superstar, has gone the way of the Taco Bell
Chihuahua tune.
Number 7: Thong Song by Sisqo | Even though the lyrics are forgotten and the singer finally
declared black (despite his best efforts to be called a computer software instead) his message about
keeping your priorities straight lives on.
Number 6: The Alice song by Smokie | This is probably every non redneck’s first intro into the
world of country music; and it also turned out to be a nifty way of pissing off anyone named Alice .
Number 5: D.K Bose | This song clearly commemorates the spirit of Delhi in all its glory, that, and
it’s a fun way to learn every abusive term in the Delhi handbook in a way that makes you go, so that’s
what my boss was saying!
Number 4: That’s What I Go to School For by Busted | This was probably one of the most ground
breaking songs of its time inspiring kids everywhere to stay in school and for schools to hire hot
teachers.
Number 3: Sutta by those Guys I could never name | Smoking kills and so does this song,
but in a completely different way... this song made by those guys in IIT is still considered sacred by
engineering students all over India.
Number 2: Stacy’s Mom by Fountains of Wayne | This song gave a whole new angle to the
commandment “Love Thy Neighbour” and gave me hope every time the house next door was up for
sale.
Number 1: Baby Got Back by Sir Mix a Lot | This rocking song of the 80’s was one of the first
introductions of my generation into the kingdom of perv; teaching guys everywhere that it was OK
to set their sights low.
Living in the UAE, you must know
that a friend isn’t going to last
forever. This is a sad truth for many
people and especially the youth of
today. People leave for different
reasons. Many students, when
they reach that age when they
begin thinking about college and
university, usually consider studying
abroad. Also, when people come
here from western countries, most of them are bound to be here for only a few years. Along with that,
think about how many people try to immigrate to other countries. So there are many situations that
usually force people to leave. I love the UAE with all my heart and mind, and I’m sure many of you do too.
But the decisions and choices people make are theirs, are in God’s hands. If I left, or if my friends leave the
UAE, I will most definitely miss them, however, I will also most certainly not give up making new friends.
And I will not be afraid to open up to, share, and establish new relationships.
My advice to everyone starting school or university is to always have hope in new friendships. Many
people long to be your close friends, so don’t push them away. Be open to making friends and you’ll see
that each person has a special trait or personality, and always keep in mind that there’s no such thing as
a one and only best friend. Remember, “A gift of friendship is priceless, especially when it comes from
YOU.” Have a good beginning this school year! Send me some feedback? [email protected]
Photo courtesy: Ethan Ebenezer, Jared Sawaya, and Tino Mupambo.
WHY DO GUYS LIKE SEINFELD ?
By Aditya Jain
It’s not a show which is packed with action like 24. There
is no storyline like Friends where the characters evolve. It
doesn’t have the bro quality of Entourage. Californication
trounces it in terms of nudity. No twisted storylines like Lost.
Hell, even Two & a Half Men is funnier (maybe not anymore
with Ashton Kutcher). But when it comes right down to
it, Seinfeld has that indefinable quality that makes it one
of the best loved comedies of the nineties. Yet, curiously
enough, it does not appeal to everyone. Ask a female friend
if she likes Seinfeld. Invariably, the answer comes back, “No! It’s just not that funny. I mean I understand
the jokes, I just don’t find them funny. It’s kind of lame.” Dozens of other females will confirm their dislike
for Seinfeld, and his gang of apathetic New Yorkers (George, Kramer and Elaine). Seinfeld’s polarizing
effect can be traced back to the whole basis of the show: it’s a show about nothing. Of course, there
have been plenty of shows about nothing in the past, but Seinfeld’s situational comedy and exaggerated
side characters are what keep the show going... from Newman who manages to encapsulate all that
is evil about the world in just a few sentences, to the Soup Nazi who bans Elaine from sampling his
Mulligatawny soup for a year.
I’m sure many of us know a Close Talker, have a few friends with crazy parents, and generally have a
Seinfeld, Elaine or a George in our group. If you know someone like Kramer, well then respect. You clearly
have way more adventures than the rest of us. That is what makes the show so amazing. It captures the
very essence of everyday life. While we all secretly (or openly) aspire to be Ari Gold from Entourage, we
can all relate to the situations and characters in Seinfeld, because we encounter them on a daily basis. The
nothingness of the show is actually its best quality.
Guys are generally content with watching shows about nothing; there is no need for the characters to
progress or evolve. We’re happy with the ways things are. And there we get to the fundamental difference
between men and women; men enjoy the status quo, while women look towards the future. As guys, we
really don’t care if Carrie finds her true love in Mr. Big. We have no idea what Gilmore Girls is all about
because all the characters talk so fast. Very few guys have even seen Oprah’s grand finale. Seinfeld is a
show which has no future, and that’s just fine by us!
WHEN THE
DEVILS
CAME TO
TOWN
By Ayman Bukair
DUBAI FASHION WEEK: SPRING/ SUMMER 2012 SEASON
When word of Duke basketball team coming to the UAE recently got around, all of us bballers
here knew we had to head over to Al Wasl Club in Dubai to watch the game. It was the Division
One NCAA/ACC basketball team, the Blue Devils, who came along with coach Mike Krzyzewski
(Coach K) for an exhibition match against the UAE national team.
The University of Duke has been home to one of the most elite teams of all the Division Onebasketball teams in America. They always stir up excitement every time they step foot on the
hardwood. They have a solid fan base across the world. But who could have guessed that they
also have a large band of supporters right here in the UAE! Duke fans chanted loudly for every
basket that went in but still, the majority of the crowd was also loyal to the home team. There
was a roaring cheer by the crowd as the home team entered the court to warm up before the
match, and lots of counter-cheering throughout the game.
The tip-off commenced with 6’4 guard Austin Rivers scoring the first two points of the game,
followed by baskets from Mason Plumlee and Andre Dawkins and then others. From then on
the Duke squad pretty much controlled the tempo of the game. The scoring was distributed
fairly evenly amongst the Duke players, who showed a high level of teamwork and execution
of plays. The UAE responded with many effective plays beyond the three-point line to keep the
score as close as possible. The UAE national team was trailing for the majority of the game and
kept it very close in the first half. In the end, they fell short, losing by twenty points with a final
score of 66-86. The UAE nationals showed a lot of heart throughout the game and never gave
up despite the score difference.
Although the match was only an exhibition game, there was excitement with every basket
scored from either side. Both teams are considered professionals in their respective divisions
and regions and in their level of expertise, and both teams carried themselves with a high
level of sportsmanship.
Basketballers in the UAE appreciated the Duke-UAE game and we think it will help spark an
interest and love for the game of basketball (as it is not commonly played in the UAE). The last
time I attended a basketball game that had me jumping out of my seat was when the ‘And1
Mixtape’ tour came to the Al-Wasl Club a few years ago. Basketball fans may have had to wait
a while for the next major basketball event to happen, but it was definitely worth it. (Still I do
hope organizers won’t make us wait too long for the next big game).
Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) has announced the lineup of designers participating in the
Spring/Summer 2012 Collections, to be held at The Arena, Dubai World Trade Centre from
20 to 24 October 2011. Leading designers from UAE, Bahrain, Lebanon, Qatar and Egypt are
scheduled to take part in the event alongside international designers from India, Pakistan,
London and Australia. The current lineup includes Aarshika, Amber Feroz, Barjis, Cartas,
Dabya, Furne One, Jaya Misra, Jelin George, Maisha Creations by Mehwish Afzal, Malak
El Ezzawy, Mapxencars, Mumbai Se, Meher & Riddhima, Nabrman, Riimple and Mayyur
Girotra, Sakina Mohsin, Shrekahnth, USH DESIGN by Abeer Al Suwaidi, Wafa Al Kathiri and
Zori Couture.
Under the direction of Simon P Lock who was recently-appointed to lead the show, DFW
hopes to play a more important role on the international fashion week circuit and follow
the footsteps of the major fashion weeks of London, New York, Milan and Paris. Dubai
Fashion Week’s new plans for this year include a complete redesign of the event venue
to include new spaces for designers to showcase their collections and a grand opening
ceremony for the event.
COMEDY KNOCKOUT: K BROSAS AND KIM IDOL LIVE IN ABU DHABI!
Events ‘R Us is hosting the musical comedy event “Comedy Knockout: K Brosas & Kim Idol
Live in Abu Dhabi” for the Filipino community on 21st October 2011 at the Abu Dhabi City
Golf Club.Organisers say that the event will feature three hours of non-stop laughter and
songs that promise to both tickle and dazzle audiences. K Brosas is known as a comedienne,
a TV hostess, an actress and also as a gifted singer. Apart from her prowess in impersonating
famous singers such as Celine Dion and Britney Spears, K Brosas is also known for her funny
interpretation of songs using sign languages. The other big star of the show, Kim Idol, was a
former host of ‘Eat Bulaga,’ the Philippines’ longest running noontime TV show. He appeared
in many shows in various countries including Hong Kong, Australia, Dubai and Europe. A
well known sing-along master, Kim Idol is a sought-after performer in various comedy bars
in Manila.
For more information, please contact Kristine- 050-5269750.
• The glossy multi-page menus delivered to your homes? The kind
with photos of layered juices, hamburgers and shawarma dishes...
I’ve been told that several restaurants are using the same photos;
perhaps they come from a shared photo bank, or from the same
ad agency. That means that from the restaurant’s point of view,
the dishes in their menu are more aspirational (what they want
you to hope they are) rather than representative (what they really
are).
• Did Google’s brief outage of its Google Docs on September 8 affect
you? Now, what if, God forbid, a meteor dropped on Google HQ
(or say a rogue employee turned off the switch) and you (and
half of the planet) end up losing all your mail and valuable data?
“Global downturn” could give way to a new term, ’economic
armaggedon’.
• Heard IBM’s announcement of the next-generation computers
out in 2013 which will be 1,000 times faster than what we have
today? Then check out Ray Kurtzweil’s theory of singularity...
maybe even more freakish than the Google thing.
BHS HOME OPENS AT RAHA MALL!
Following the success of its stores in Al Ain, BHS Home has opened its first store in Abu
Dhabi at Raha Mall. Located on the ground floor and open from 10 am - 10 pm, BHS
Home opened it’s doors to the public on September 11.
With a wide range of products that include cutlery and crockery, linens, cute stuff for
the kids and decor to suit every taste, BHS home want to be the first place you turn to
when you need to brighten up your home.
SAFE AND SOUND 2011:
IN SUPPORT OF BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
Safe and Sound, BurJuman’s breast cancer awareness programme is back every
weekend of October for a line-up of events, culminating in the ‘Pink Walkathon’ which
will take place on the last Friday of the month – October 28. The annual charitable,
non-competitive event is a 3.6 km walk with sideline activities. The event includes the
‘Pink Book Sale’ on the first Friday of the month with more than 15,000 books donated
by the community up for grabs. The entire event’s revenue is being donated towards
free mammogram check-ups, patient care and other awareness-raising drives.
On Thursday, 13 October, BurJuman will host ‘Cakes for a Cause’ – a bake sale featuring
delicious sweet treats from some of Dubai’s leading bakeries such as Kitsch and Sweet
Lane Cakes and hotels such as Movenpick Hotel , Jumeirah Beach and Al Maha Desert
Resort – much of proceeds donated to the campaign. The annual ‘Pink Survivor Fashion
Show’ will take place the following Friday, 21 October at BurJuman, with breast cancer
survivors modeling a collection of high fashion garments offered by mall retailers in a
show of solidarity for the campaign’s message and goal. The ‘Pink Walkathon’ will take
place the following Friday.
For more information, go to www.safeandsound.ae
• Anwar sends a message to his bankers: “Stop plying me with
credit cards. I don’t want them and I didn’t ask for them....and oh
yeah, if I give in and use them and they’re all maxed out, don’t
complain when you’re out of pocket - remember, you forced your
cards on me.”
• Maybe no one has said anything about this yet, but someone
should. Kudos to Masafi for their cool line of healthy, less
sweetened juices (and healthier chips too). Not always easy being
a trailblazer in a sickly diabetes-inducing nectar juice industry. Try
their pomegranate acai juice.
• A super rave: Dubai’s Green Line which has taken the entire length
of the driverless, remote-controlled system to about 75km,
making it the longest automated driverless metro in the world (a
Guinness World Record). A regional blueprint for progress.
• And the big rant: Katrina Kaif and her co-stars debuted “Mere
Brother Ki Dulhan” in the capital, but perhaps they shouldn’t have
bothered coming at all. Apparently Miss Kaif was all airs, and
even worse, the winners of a competition promised time with the
stars were barely allowed to meet them. Brutal!
• Tempo is looking for a place to rent. We found out that some
realtors advertise incredible deals in the paper as bait. You call and
then they tell you the place just got rented out, and then they take
your telephone number and say they’ll call you for the next one.
Not honest, guys! So, if you’re a real realtor, and you have a real
fabulous place (think large and cheap) of say about 250-300sqm
(eg. warehouse/ penthouse/ shell+core) then drop me a line.
And that, folks, is the bottom, bottom line.
Write to me: [email protected]
The Concierge
TECH TALK
Shahid Saeed | Talker for the Non-Techies
GAME HEDZ
Blakniss | Original game head from Atari to XBox!
SAMSUNG LAUNCHES NEW GALAXY TAB 7.7
Samsung is not letting Apple relax and they are turning the heat with the
slimmest phone, the Galaxy Tab 7.7. It’s 7.89mm thick! Packed with two 1.4GHz
processors, it touts WXGA (1280 x800) resolution on a spectacular Super AMOLED
Plus screen. What I don’t get is, where in that ultra-slim body did the Korean
manufacturer manage to fit a 5,100mah battery? I doubt the 3 megapixel and
2 megapixel cameras will be any good and I’ve found that even the very latest
version of the android (Honeycomb, V3.2) isn’t quite up to its standard of iOS
in terms of responsiveness and utility enhancing applications. The price and
availability have yet to be announced.
COMICS N’ BOOKS N’ GAMES
(Don’t you just love words joined by an “n”? They’re just so cute).
SONY LAUNCHES XPERIA MINI IN MIDDLE EAST
Sony has launched the Xperia Mini smartphone in the Middle East. The phone
is powered by 1GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon processor, 3-inch scratch-resistant
and multi touch glass screen, and runs on Google’s Android Gingerbread 2.3. It
also combines with Mobile BRAVIA Engine and 720p HD video recording. It comes
preloaded with Office Suite and McAfee antivirus software, allowing consumers
to securely manage documents and email instantly while on the move. Xperia
is designed to provide social media integration with improved user interface to
allow the display of up to 16 Apps on the home screen.
HALO - Halo has a series of books by a variety
of authors, but Gears of War novelist, Karen
Traviss, is now working on the Halo series,
so if those books are anywhere as good as
the Gears work, they›ll be worth the coin.
Traviss, after all, turned the Gears series into
a series of bestselling books. (Hard copies
and ebooks)
MORE DATA WITH (DU)
DU has introduced the new recharge option that gives you easy and affordable
access to data on your mobile. “More data” gives you data upon recharging on
the go while in the UAE. It is similar to previously available recharge options
“more credit & more time”. To avail this facility just dial *131*, the card number,
followed by the # and press the call key to recharge. “more data” gives you a
variety of data bundles that depend upon your recharging amount e.g. AED 100
brings you 750MB for 30 days.
HOW TO LIMIT 3G DATA USAGE ON ANDROID AND SAVE?
Are you facing problem of big bills (overage charges) from your mobile network
due to data usage? Don’t worry there is the solution. The app Onavo Lite for
Android tracks data consumption and provides users with tips based on their
monthly data usage patterns. Onavo Lite helps you control your 3G data and
manage your data plan to avoid overage. The app is free and simple to use.
SAMSUNG NEW GALAXY TAB 7.7
Follow me on @shahidaasi
MY FAV APP
My favourite app is Instagram. It’s a photo app that helps you
enhance your photographs and then post them on Facebook
and Twitter. I like this app because of the extra features it
provides that normal camera apps don’t have.
- Tempo reader Ankit Lodha
Anyhoo, it’s all the rage to convert and supplement the story (and value) of a
game through printed material - most delightfully with comics, and books. We
already looked at the Gears of War novels (see the blog for a review), but there are
more games that have comics and novels you can enjoy in hard copy and digital
formats.
Hither are some of the more popular titles:
MASS EFFECT - a series of novels exist
for Mass Effect, written primarily by Drew
Karpyshyn, with the next one due out the
end January 2012 (by William C. Dietz) around the same time of the Mass Effect
3 release date. But there are also graphic
novels out there courtesy of Dark Horse.
(Hard copies and ebooks)
BATMAN: ARKHAM CITY
WARCRAFT - yes for you Warcraft junkies,
you can get the comics! But you probably
already know that - that’s why you’re a
Junkie. (Hardcopies and ecomics)
BATMAN - course there has always been a
steady flow of material from the Dark Knight,
but there are two arcs of comics courtesy of
DC that were written specifically to fill in the
gaps between the first and second parts of
the Arkham game series. (Hardcopies and
ecomics)
PORTAL 2: LAB RAT
UNCHARTED - yes Drake fans, you can
watch him climb, shoot, and smoulder in
word form. But you will have to wait. The
first work of fiction isn’t released yet, though
there is a behind-the-scenes book written
by Nolan North (voice of Drake) due out this
fall. (TBA)
ASSASSIN’S CREED - a few of these out
already with the next title due in November.
(Hardcopies and ebooks)
I’m outta real estate so check out other titles
like Bioshock, Dead Space, Portal 2, and
Deux Ex!
DEUX EX
View the #1 SONG IN THE UAE
GIVE ME EVERYTHING
Pitbull ft. Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer
LIGHTERS |
Bad Meets Evil ft. Bruno Mars
MOVES LIKE JAGGER |
IN THE DARK |
RAIN OVER ME |
Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera
Dev
Pitbull ft. Marc Anthony
STEREO HEARTS | Gym Class Heroes
LAST FRIDAY NIGHT | Katy Perry
HOW TO LOVE | Lil Wayne
NEXT TO YOU | Chris Brown ft. Justin Bieber
SET FIRE TO RAIN | Adele
All About Tonight | Pixie Lott
Moves Like Jagger | Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera
All Fired Up | The Saturdays
Collide | Leona Lewis and Avicii
Stay awake | Example
Heart Skips a Beat | Olly Murs ft. Rizzle Kicks
Feel So Close | Calvin Harris
Jar of Hearts | Christina Perri
Party All Night (Sleep All Day) | Sean Kingston
You Need Me, I Don’t Need You | Ed Sheeran
TOP 10 SONGS by Simone Carvalho
A 16 year old high school student
who loves photography and the
arts and cannot stand heavy
metal music.
1. Lost- Coldplay
2. Dream on- Aerosmith
3. Oh Hum Dum/ Say My Name- The Cheapmunks
4. Far Away- Nickelback
5. Power- Kanye West
6. Imagine- Glee
7. Turning Tables (Acoustic version)- Adele
8. I Feel Pretty/ Unpretty- Glee
9. Your Body is a Wonderland- John Mayer
10. Poison and Wine- Civil Wars
Someone like you | Adele
Moves Like Jagger | Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera
Pumped Up Kicks | Foster The People
Party Rock Anthem | LMFAO ft. Lauren Bennett and GoonRock
Super Bass | Nicki Minaj
You and I | Lady Gaga
Lighters | Bad Meets Evil ft. Bruno Mars
You Make Me Feel | Cobra Starship ft. Sabi
Give Me Everything | Pitbull ft. Ne-Yo, Afrojack and Nayer
Last Friday Night | Katy Perry
BREAST CANCER AWARENESS
WHEN POLO AND PINK COMBINE
By Sharon Carvalho
Breast cancer is a disease that affects one in eight women and when Carrie McNeil realised
that only 30% of cases were detected in the early stages, she knew she wanted to do
something to raise awareness in the UAE. So she decided to bring her love for sports and
her desire to make a difference together, and organise an event called Pink Polo.
Carrie McNeil
A fan meeting a Pink Polo player
Carrie McNeil with visitors
TEMPO: What makes Pink Polo different from other breast cancer awareness
programmes?
Carrie: I wanted to make Pink Polo a fun, family event. I want the community to
be able to talk about breast cancer and not treat it like the taboo that people think
it is. I want it to be a platform to allow not only companies but individuals to feel
comfortable enough to support the event, talk about it, and spread the word. I decided
that the event would be like a day out with the family. It would definitely be about
raising awareness about breast cancer but apart from the polo game, it would feature
picnic grounds, free children’s activities, pony and camel rides and even an award for
TEMPO: How did Pink Polo come about?
the guest dressed in the most striking pink outfit of the day! The event also got our
Carrie: I learnt from living in the Emirates about the Islamic tradition of giving back to the sponsors to raise awareness among staff and clients.
community and I kept trying to figure out how I could do this in a creative way. I knew I wanted
to do something different and that I didn’t want to just raise money, as so many other charities TEMPO: How can our readers make a difference?
do this very well. I wanted to create awareness about this important issue but do it in a manner Carrie: I guess the most important thing would be to increase awareness about the
that was fun. It was while doing some research that I came across the shocking facts about disease. Whether it be feeling free to talk about it or encouraging your mother, sisters,
cousins, best friends etc. to get themselves checked. Another point would be to not
breast cancer in the UAE. That was when I decided to launch ‘Pink Polo’.
be scared of the situation. In 80% of the time, lumps found are non cancerous, so it is
always better to get yourself checked out and be sure.
TEMPO: Tell us about ‘Pink Polo’
Carrie: Well, once I knew what I wanted to do, I approached Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club The shocking fact is that one out of eight women suffers from breast cancer and that
and Health Authority Abu Dhabi. They liked the idea and that got me speaking to sponsors and only 30% of cases are discovered in the early stages here in the UAE. The point is that
individuals and, in turn, helped spread the word about my campaign. We ended up finding early detection can save up to 98% of cases and the only way to catch it is to keep
really good support from the community within Abu Dhabi and found committed sponsors checking.
as Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank and Abu Dhabi Airports Company as well as international
sponsors such as Estée Lauder, among others. Thanks to our the patron, HH Sheikh Falah Bin We hope to see as many as possible join us at the event on October 29 at the Ghantoot
Zayed Al Nahyan, the event could feature its main attraction, a polo match including both Racing and Polo Club. The event is free so please spread the word to family and
international polo and Emirati polo players, at the Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club.
friends!
TEMPO: Tell us about yourself.
Carrie: I’ve always had a great passion for sports. I was an elite athlete in my youth and
in my career I spent 10 years in the field of sports marketing. In the UAE I used to work for
an agency involved with Etihad Airways sponsorships managing brands like Ferrari F1 and
Chelsea Football etc. Recently I started my own business, Scott & Scandi, which is all about
events designed to give back to the community. I also manage the marketing for Ghantoot
Racing and Polo Club with HH Sheikh Falah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan as the patron of the property
and the Polo Team.
JEWELZ
CUPCAKES
By Dana Joulani
Cupcakes with an essence of Arabia
Jewelz is a charming boutique and a cupcake
café that offers a vast variety of drinks and
desserts that will most certainly attract every
age. Jewelz gives an original twist to their
cupcakes, desserts and drinks.
The idea took the owner, Manal Al-Binali, two years to implement. Unlike other
cupcake places, this one is based on an Arabian concept with the cupcakes named
after jewels in Arabic, and a logo that juxtaposes Jewelz and Jawahr, to give Abu
Dhabi its first authentic Arabian-inspired cupcake place.
This ‘cupcakery’ offers a selection of original flavors of cupcakes such as green tea
and chai along with honey frosting. It also offers a variety of cookies and petit fours
in different colours, along with cakes and reusable trays filled with desserts for
birthdays, gifts and casual events. The cupcakes are offered in three different sizes:
regular, medium and small. Their signature hot chocolate is brought to you in a
teapot of hot milk and a stick with a perfectly cut chocolate cube at the end of it so
customers can customize their drinks to their own personal preferences.
Jewelz’s reusable trays come in four different colours and are filled with petit fours,
mini cupcakes, chocolate truffles and anything else you might like. You can pre-order
your trays or get one that’s already prepackaged. You can re-fill the tray and even, get
this, modify the colour of the dessert to match the colour of the tray.
Jewelz is located in Al Moroor Road amid banks and schools which makes it accessible
for passers-by, students, and business people. Their prices are quite reasonable,
especially when compared to many other pastry shops, while the ambience is good
enough to make it a great ‘hang out’ place. Future plans for Jewelz include opening
more branches in the UAE, introducing chocolate fondue and possibly adding a few
savory dishes to the menu.
By Sunita Carvalho
INGREDIENTS (For 2 people)
1 tomato- sliced
1 capsicum- sliced
1 onion- cut in rings
8 mushrooms- sliced
2 sausages- sliced (skip if you’re vegetarian, obviously)
2 eggs
DIRECTIONS
•
Fry all the ingredients individually except for the eggs.
•
Put all the fried items in to a pan large enough to snugly fit them all
•
Crack the eggs over them in such a way that the white of the eggs
connect all the food.
•
Cover and cook till the eggs are done to your liking
•
Serve with bread for breakfast!
RATING SCALE:
LEVEL 1: SUPER EASY
LEVEL 2: RELATIVELY EASY
LEVEL 3: MEDIUM SKILLS REQUIRED
LEVEL 4: COOKING SKILLS A MUST
LEVEL 5: ARE YOU SURE YOU WANNA DO THIS?
“Never underestimate the power of
dressing well! Dress to impress! Show inner
confidence, posture, elegance, femininity,
simplicity, and individualism”
Abu Dhabi resident
Margarita Cejudo-Perdomo
Describe your personal style: I have an incredibly eclectic attitude towards fashion.
I love mix ‘n’ matching to get the right balance between a fashionable, elegant, classic
and romantic look while also adding a bit of excitement with a personal touch. The UAE
weather and cosmopolitan scene are definitely a source of inspiration. My philosophy is
to never copy looks straight of the catwalk; fashion is down to each individual. Trends are
there to inspire you and guide you to make your own statement. Fashion is the language
of the clothes you are wearing!
Fav buy of the past month: A gorgeous pink and golden bracelet from Aftershock.
Which is your fave store in AD? Top places to shop in AD? Being Spanish I trust
Massimo Dutti, Zara and Mango’s latest runway trends for much of my work and leisure
clothing. Their fitted fashionable lines are always a safe bet. However I also try to venture
out to other stores in search of exotic Arabic/Indian inspired costumes. For cocktails or
eveningwear I turn to Reiss or Bebe. A tip, invest in colours this season! Remember
shoes must always stand out more than the outfit. Use accessories to show you are
on top of trends!
Does Abu Dhabi have style? Yes it does, but it is rather a melting pot of international
flavours. I tried to import my Spanish style but it did not work. Abu Dhabi has its own
essence and you cannot ignore it. Blend it into your own fashion personality and you will
be a winner!
Do you have any fashion hates? Regardless of clothes or occasion there are two
important rules to take into account: walking a perfect posture and showing femininity
as both reflect on the clothes worn.
“I LOVE UAE”
VIDEO COMPETITION
A COMPETITION THAT GAVE THE COMMUNITY A VOICE
When Tempo and the New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi decided to launch a film competition to celebrate UAE’s 40th
anniversary, and give members of the community an opportunity to express their love and appreciation in short videos. The
response was phenomenal! The event was held at Mamoura Auditorium and attended by film enthusiasts, industry experts,
educationists and members of the public.
The winner of the “Me” category was Alina Mustafina, and the winner of the “Me
and My School Category” was Shabari Shankar from Abu Dhabi Indian school.
Held alongside the awards ceremony was a debate on “How to nurture talent in
film making in the UAE.”
“It was great fun bringing the community together with educationists and
film experts talking about how to nurture talent in film making. I thank NYFA,
Imagenation, Abu Dhabi Media Company, Zayed University, British School Al
Khubairat and the American Community School for being fair in their judging and
generous in sharing their insight and knowledge. It is through collaboration and
partnership that we can transform communities and incite positive change.”
The films were all of an extremely high calibre and the
decision to award was very hard. I congratulate all the
filmmakers and the supporters of the event for expressing
what they truly love about the UAE.”
Sana Bagersh
Managing Editor, Tempo
Simon Hunter
President of the New York Film Academy Abu Dhabi
Billy Stewart
Finalist - ME and MY SCHOOL Category
Saadiq Nujam
Finalist - ME Category
ME AND MY SCHOOL
CATEGORY WINNER:
Shabari Shankar, 16, studies at
the Abu Dhabi Indian School.
ME- (OVER 18 YEARS)
CATEGORY WINNER:
Alina Mustafina, 27, works
for Hyper Sun as a journalist.
Daniel Malak
Finalist - ME Category
ME- (OVER 18 YEARS) CATEGORY:
Panelists and organizers of the “I LOVE UAE” video competition
“I was amazed about the quality of the videos from all the young participants. They were
professional -grade pieces which showcased excellent storytelling and technical skills, and
reflected the unique perspective of each director. Educators understand the importance of
equipping students with 21st century skills to prepare them for life after school. I was
honoured to have been a part of this wonderful opportunity to help further the creativity
of young minds in the UAE, and look forward to more film-making opportunities for our
students”.
Jesse Remington, Technology Systems Coordinator, American Community
School Abu Dhabi
“I was overwhelmed by the level of enthusiasm and passion in all who participated at
the TEMPO-NYFA contest. I applaud their efforts and applaud the leaders in this industry
who are committed to embrace and nurture talent. I am pleased to see a burgeoning film
community that is brave and willing to get their ideas expressed visually and make the
process fun! I made new friends and I hope to see them be part in the efforts of developing
a motion picture industry in the UAE.”
Alina Mustafina, 27, works for Hyper Sun as a journalist. She has lived in the UAE
for three years and hopes one day to become a film maker. As winner of the ME category
she receives a 12 week intensive film making course at the New York Film Academy Abu
Dhabi. “I work for a community magazine in Dubai and one day we wrote about the ‘I love
UAE film competition’ organized by Tempo. I brainstormed with my husband, my friends,
my mum and dad and I also spent about three days watching the best short movies from
all over the world to get some sort of inspiration but the idea I used was the idea that
came to me the moment I decided to participate. My aim was to show people – simple,
happy and smiling. I then began looking for a shape to combine all the characters together
and I found it in a simple heart. So I shot people who work at the fish market, white collar
workers, boxer, artist, Asians, Europeans, and Africans. It was hard to find music as well. At
the ceremony my friends and I were really nervous. I was sweating and shaking and when
the envelope was finally opened and I heard my name, I couldn’t believe it! I was so happy
and kept shaking hands with all the jury members. And I’m going to study in one of the
best film academies in the world!’
ME AND MY SCHOOL (11- 18 YEARS) CATEGORY:
Shabari Shankar, 16, studies at the Abu Dhabi Indian School. “I’ve always dreamt
of being a singer/ song-writer and I feel this is something like a milestone which will
help turning my dreams into a magical reality. My muse and my inspiration for this song
was UAE. Since I’ve been born and brought up here, I wanted to pass a tribute so I tried
expressing my love for UAE through a medium I’m really passionate about and I am really
grateful to Tempo for giving us an opportunity to express our love for this country. I’m also
very much thankful to my band members, Sneha, Neha, Saee and Kayan and my school.”
Shabari put together the video, along with an original song, with her four band mates.
She received a video camera from Tempo and a workshop from NYFA Abu Dhabi for her
school.
Mohamed Al Otaiba, Head of Imagenation Abu Dhabi
“Media doesn’t know an age. Children, young people are always interested in watching
television and learning more about the world. This passion for TV and media, especially
in film making, starts where everything begins – home. Parents need to strengthen and
enhance the child’s interest in the media and the social media. They can do simple steps
to make their children curious about the media. They can for instance, buy them a simple
camera and download a free editing program on their computer. [There are] simple tools
that can build a great and new media generation who are passionate about the world of
journalism and the power that comes from the media”.
Shabari Shankar receiving her prizes from Tempo and NYFA
Mohamed Farah, Project Production Manager, Abu Dhabi Media Company
“It was a truly inspirational evening and I am delighted to be part of such an amazing
event.”
Michelle Flemington, Head of Media Studies
British School Al Khubairat Abu Dhabi
“The I Love UAE film competition empowered many to express themselves creatively. Tempo did an excellent job attracting a diverse crowd in the ongoing effort to represent
this quickly growing and developing city. There is no magic formula for great film or
cinema, but in many of the films we saw glimpses of magic. Please continue to bring
people together and more magic will happen.” Dr. Nezar Andary, Assistant professor of Film and Literature, Zayed University
Hana Makki, film producer, and presenter of the event. “What a night! Great to see
such fantastic mix of film enthusiasts in one room! There were guys from the Abu Dhabi
Film Commission, film producers as well as all the young filmmakers and their parents. I
personally think at such a young age Billy Stewart has found his career, and Saadiq Nujam
seriously impressed and sparked all our minds with his mini documentary. Daniel Malek,
wow, his cinematography is beautiful. I hope each of the finalists remembers to never
doubt themselves, to be proud of their work, and to keep trying. They have seriously
impressed.”
Judges watching NYFA presentation
Hana Makki presiding over the event
tempoplanet.com’s chatbox
Shabz: Oh sure! I’m really thankful to all you lovely viewers and voters out there
who made my dreams come true. And to my band members whose support kept
me going. I really admire you guys :) :D
Alan: Competition isn’t only about winning, it is about sportsmanship. Parents
shouldn’t get upset when their children lose!
Alina: Thank you very much everybody!!! I am so happy and I believe that all
dreams come true!!! Just wish and do!
Saadiq: It was a wonderful experience.....well done Alina and Daniel...it was great
to share the stage with you people.
Ahmadfalafel: Whoever is judging this competition hopefully is judging it based
on creativity. Good luck to all the creative videos!
I’M A TEENAGER,
DON’T PATRONIZE ME!
THINKING:
THE BIG WHYS OF LIFE
By Ahmed Samir
By Shamma Al Suwaidi
“Teenager!” The word carries an overwhelmingly negative
connotation, doesn’t it? It’s as though it carries a probably
unintended but nonetheless pernicious assumption that
teenagers are “stupid”. In all probability, the word also forms
an image in the back of your head of an immature dolt who’s
too vain and too inept to be taken seriously by anyone.
It’s funny how life always seems to hit us with
a series of unexpected events; sometimes good,
sometimes bad. But they just keep on coming. We
end up thinking, “Is this ever going to end?” even
though deep down inside we know it won’t.
Why is that? More often than is necessary, I find myself talked down to,
taken for someone who is of below par intelligence, and for nothing other
than being a teenager! It’s as if the fact that I’m a teenager implies that
I am too stupid to understand what is said to me and necessitates that I
either not be talked at all, or be given a watered down version; one that
my puny teenage brain can handle. And that is something that I contest.
Vehemently!
People respond to incidents in different ways, and it’s important to keep
in mind that the way we respond to things can either make ‘life’ easier or
harder, acceptable or unbearable. Looking at people, you always find them
‘thanking God’ when something good happens in their life. On the other
hand, when something bad happens, they either end up blaming Him or
cursing themselves for their luck. Why isn’t it possible for us to enjoy what’s
sweet while we can, and thank God for whatever is “sour” because, whether
we know it or not, it makes us stronger and better people if we ‘respond’ to
the situation in the right way.
For the sake of the argument, let’s say that the assumptions are true; which,
more often than not, isn’t the case. But let’s say that teenagers really are
dense and daft dimwits, does talking down to them help? (Note the
masterful use of alliteration in the three Ds)
The thing is, condescension only exacerbates things. Talk down to someone
long enough and eventually they get used to it. It can only have negative
effects on the person; and it certainly won’t help them in any way…. Take
these two examples:
“What you’re trying to say is...” and “let me see if I can put this in terms
simple enough for you.” To me, they translate to: “I’m better, you’re inferior.
You’re too thick to form coherent thought.”
This way of communicating is annoying at best, exceptionally detrimental
at worst. Granted, whoever does that may not necessarily have offending at
heart, but it’s painful all the same.
So can we please stop doing that? Please? If
not for maintaining common decency then
for conserving the collective sanity of the
next generation!
#ThingsIWishFor
Follow me on Twitter or email
[email protected]
What breaks my heart is to see people throwing their lives away in response
to a tragedy that takes place in their lives, or enter a dark tunnel that they
don’t know how to get out of. There’s always a light at the end. It’s just a
matter of figuring out. The way I see it, you should ask yourself:
1. How did I get here?
2. How badly do I want to get there?
Once we realize this, we stop reacting in a way that hurts others and
ourselves, and we begin to send out more of a positive reaction that will
leave us feeling better and leave the people around us feeling inspired.
I’ve come to the conclusion that the reason why we react the way we do is
because as soon as we get hit, beaten down and fall, we ask that ultimate
question “WHY?” Why did this happen to me? Why do I have to go through
this? Why can’t the good outlast the bad? Why can’t life hand me a chocolate
sundae with hot fudge and sprinkles instead of constantly throwing lemons?
The reality of the situation is: there is no answer. You can come up with
theories of why it might have happened but you will never really know why.
If we had all the answers to life’s questions then what’s the point of life
itself? Would the words “faith”, “hope’”, “wish’”, or “dream’”, hold the same
meaning? Contemplate that.
REVIVING ART AT THE RESUSCITATION THEATRE:
STAGING T.S. ELLIOT’S “THE COCKTAIL PARTY”
By Sharon Carvalho
THE ACTORS
SHARON THOMPSON- I’ve been
involved with dramatics since
an early age and it’s great to be
involved with such an enthusiastic
and talented cast who so obviously
love the “craft”.
DEBORAH LOUSON- I play the role
of Julia and I’m the older member
of the play and cast. This is my first
play with Resuscitation Theatre
and I’ve been with it since May. This is also my first regular acting part after many
years. I acted in plays in university and I had a part in a musical with the Abu Dhabi
Choral Group when we did The Music Man in 2009.
Resuscitation Theatre, a group of thespians based in Abu Dhabi,
are staging The Cocktail Party by T.S. Elliot on the 1, 6, 7 and 8 of
October. Tempo met with the Resuscitation Theatre troupe and its
director, Maggie Hannan, to talk about art, theatre and inspiration.
TEMPO: Tell us about your background in theatre.
MAGGIE: I grew up in an arts family. My grandmother was an actress, as were my aunt
and uncle. My mother was an opera singer and my stepfather a painter (fine arts, not
houses, ha-ha). From the earliest memories I have, all the games I played with my cousins
revolved around making a play, movies or TV shows. My first professional show was at the
age of 15 in an Off-Off Broadway production of Ionesco’s The Leader. I have a BA in theatredance and went on to a long dance career in Las Vegas, Broadway Tour and international
cabaret. In fact, I was in Abu Dhabi during the mid-eighties and started the Abu Dhabi
Dance Theatre that performed for private functions in a variety of hotels. When I got too
old to dance I turned back to theatre and for 15 years was director of drama and dance in a
variety of schools in the UK. My inspiration for Resuscitation Theatre came whilst teaching
A Level in Crawley. I applied for an “Awards for All” grant to create community projects
that put students onstage with community performers and so Resuscitation Theatre was
born. In Abu Dhabi, I taught drama at British School Al Khubairat and I now lecture at the
New York Film Academy.
TEMPO: How do you characterize Resuscitation Theatre?
MAGGIE: Its purpose is to reinterpret classic texts into modern theatre forms. I love the
language of the classics, but modern audiences, especially young people, demand the
visual as well as the aural. My background in dance affords me the ability to use movement
as a metaphor. Resuscitation plays are full of symbolism and metaphor. I choose plays
that are still relevant or have important messages.
TEMPO: What can the audience expect of The Cocktail Party?
MAGGIE: In this production the audience will be treated to spectacle. They will also
participate, as it is in the style of promenade theatre which requires the audience to follow
the actors. The audience is not expected to sit throughout the play and instead they may
stand or lean against the wall. There will also be chairs and sofas. The doors open at 7:30
for drinks and snacks, to create a party atmosphere. Only 50 invitations (tickets) will be
sold for each performance and tickets most definitely will need to be ordered in advance.
They are available from the One to One Hotel reception desk.
PRABHATH DHEVINDRA- I play the role of Peter. I heard of The Resuscitation Theatre
and heard about this play through a casting call. I auditioned for the part and got
selected. I think Maggie is a good leader; she is enthusiastic and full of ideas and I’m
really glad to be working with such a wonderful team.
KSENIA GIORNO- I’ve been in Abu Dhabi for four years and acting is my profession.
I play one of the four shades in the story. As shades, we just perform, we have no
dialogue. We guide the characters through the story and the interesting part is that
they don’t see us. We’re the magical part of the play, I guess. Each of the four of us
represents a different colour and different part of the story and I think that makes the
story unique.
SHIVA KOJAKI- I met Maggie at NYFA and was impressed with the approach she took
with her last play, The Seagull, so when she asked me to be part of The Cocktail party
I agreed right away. What I love about this play is that it’s very audience oriented,
especially the shades who interact with the audience on a metaphysical as well as
physical level.
SIMONE GROBBELAAR- I play the pink shade and my name is “Silene”. I met Maggie
through the New York Film Academy in Abu Dhabi, and she convinced me to become a
part of the play. The shades seemed really interesting to me, and the more I delved into
the movement sequences and the character itself, the more I fell in love with it. One of
the things I love most about the part, is that it showed me where my restrictions as an
actress lies, and with that knowledge, I continually gain more and more confidence.
FATIMA ARB- This is my second opportunity to act with Maggie. The first time was
when she directed The Seagull and I think it was pretty successful. One thing I realised
was that my role in The Seagull was more attached to my reality as compared to my
role with this play that is more in tune with my personality.
IBRAHIM AL KHUMIRI- I’m a student at NYFA…I play one part of Edward and I
believe Maggie’s vision of splitting the role made it a very diverse character, sort of
like yin and yang, the opposites of the personality. When you’re an acting student
it’s difficult to decide if you like film or theatre more, but through these experiences
you get a chance to be in both worlds and personally I like theatre more because with
theatre you are not confined to a screen but you are literally performing in front of an
audience. It is also an amazing opportunity for me especially since I am an Emirati
playing a leading role in an English play.
October
sun
mon
30
tue
31
MY OCTOBER ECO PLEDGE
!
g Month
Lun
Healthy
Halloween today!!!
Stefanie Machado
2
Zeeshan Razzaqi
4
Arjun Suria
Alaa Mohamad
3
International Day
of Non- Violence
E@
Telecom World M s 3-6
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To
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Jumeirah Emira
eon
IBWG Networking Lunch
tel
Ho
Beach Rotana
Ankit Lodha
10
11
Davina Lewis
Sign
age,
Show Imaging
@ AD and M
NEC 9 edia
-11
Chris Xaviour
9
High
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Erwi ensionn Ola Art E
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Duba
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Cherin Kim
16
17
3rd Annual Operational Risk
Management @ Amwaj Rotana,
Dubai 10-11
18
World Food Day
ME Manufacturing Exhibition
@ ADCNEC 16-18
International Jewelry and
Watch Show @ ADNEC 17-21
Lorraine
Petal Prince
L
PUL T
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PA
25
24
Ramez Najarine
23
Lowell Aquino
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26
wed
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1
Adelle Lumalang
MY OCTOBER PRIORITIES
The Cocktail
One to One
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Party by Eliot @ unge
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be
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Hotel – The
Nikki Simmonds
Hancel Punnam
21
Philipin
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Abu Dh medy Knock
abi Cit
y Golf out @
Club
Estuary Auctions @
Emirates Palace 21-22
Omar Haridy
28
Specialty Food Festival @ Dubai
International Convention and
Exhibition Centre 25-27
22
29
Shangri La A
b
Dragon Boat u Dhabi
Festival!!!
28-29
Sherlyn Elizabeth D’souza
Marlene Vaz
27
Safe
Ria Angelika Valarao
GITEX Shopper 201
@ Airport Expo,
Dubai 8-15
It’s the weekend!!!
k @ World
Dubai Fashion Wee
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20
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Trade Cent
Woodshow 2011
@ ADNEC 18-20
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Emir arat Al S eb 28
Man ct 19- F
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15
Jerlyn Camasin
M. Toufic
20
26
14
ADFF @
Emirates Palace
13-22
Grace
19
Chel Mangulabnan
Bob
13
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Awa reast Ca
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bai
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GITEX Te tional Conventio 13
Interna ition Centre 9
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RIDING THE WAVE
By Simone Castello
T.S. Eliot once said, “You are the music while the music lasts.” And for two Toronto-based
deejays, this is a statement to live by. Sound Pundits is the brainchild of two friends from
Abu Dhabi, living in Toronto, who hope to change the face of Bollywood music one listener
at a time, (along with a keen interest in entertaining and engaging local Torontonians).
Each month Ahmed Hashim and Ketan Chhatwani release a podcast online, which they
describe as “an hour and a half long musical experience.”
“It has a clear beginning, middle and end,” says Hashim, who also likens the experience to
“riding a musical wave”.In a world where tracks are released by the second, and podcasts
are available for every music enthusiast, Sound Pundits are quite likely to stand out.
Chhatwani and Hashim meticulously choose the music for each episode. They spend
the month doing research and testing tracks. House, progressive and electronic beats
are then blended with the latest from Bollywood, in what sounds like a musical fusion
that captures the romance of the east and combines it with the pulse of the west. “The
electronic scene is huge in India,” Hashim says. “Bollywood music (mostly from movies)
is already mixed by local deejays, but they rarely ever leave India. That’s where we come
in.”
The two admit the name of their venture defines their vision: “Every musician, every
deejay is a Sound Pundit. They create the music, and we combine it together in a way
that’s fun and easy to listen to.” The two friends credit deejays on both sides of the planet
for inspiring them into this craft. “We feature everyone from DJ Anoop, DJ Dev and DJ
NYK — who just so happens to be the biggest deejay in India — to Canada’s very own
Deadmau5,” Chhatwani says. “We’re actually in contact with some of the big names in
the Indian club scene.”
They taught themselves everything from the art of mixing music, to creating a podcast
online. And their hard work is definitely showing, with listeners tuning in every month
from over 80 countries. “People anticipate our episodes,” Hashim says. “We get messages
asking when then next one will be available for download… it’s pretty exciting.” The
duo say that deejays send them samples of their work with hope of being featured in an
episode. However, they’re also constantly on the lookout for new and emerging artists
to feature as well. “We’re moving full speed ahead in
2011 and we have a lot of surprises in store for our
listeners in the coming months, so we’re asking you to
tune in… and stay tuned.”
You can check out their Facebook fan page for more
booking information and latest news, or visit their
SoundCloud page for all the latest releases.
GOT PHUNK?!
By Angeli Castillo
Meet Chad Glass, a guy who sleeps by day, DJs by night. Hailing from Harlow,
Essex, Chad started out DJing as a hobby, but was soon able to turn his passion
into a profession that has span the past five years.
The path to success came with a lot of effort. Before this, he worked in the travel
industry for years, an experience which culminated with him owning his own
business with a partner. The business didn’t work out as planned and he soon
realized that there had to be more to life that working 70-80 hours a week and
worrying about making ends meet.
But it wasn’t a smooth entry into DJing for Chad, as he was pretty young for the
different styles of music he was listening to when his passion for music started.
“It’s a bit cliché but things were different back then and I think it was easier for
you to be allowed to grow up to be your own person,” he says.
As for new music and the music scene in general, he says it
was more appreciated then than it is now. People, young
or old, would buy seven or 12 inch vinyl or an LP (album)
that carried far greater value and satisfaction, whereas
now you simply load up your Ipod with as much music
(free or cheap) you want but with stuff that is a whole lot
more generic.
He says music appeared to be more ground breaking back
then as technology was alot slower, so a new style was
classed as quite a big thing; whereas now a “new” style
is simply a vamped up beat or way of delivering an old
style.
You can visit and dance to Chad’s ‘Phunky,’ soulful, electro-tinged, uplifting and
twisted dirty house sessions. He is a joint Resident DJ of Relax@12 at Aloft Hotel
playing three nights a week at their rooftop, and is also joint promoter and
resident for the Immaculate Touch Pool Parties with Stew Magoo.
PHOTOTRIPPING
A SPACE FOR AMATEURS AND PROFESSIONALS
TO SHARE YOUR PHOTOS AND YOUR TECHNIQUES
OUR NEXT TOPIC: FOOD
Send your photographs to [email protected]
TITLE: GOLD
TITLE: SERENITY
TITLE: KING OF THE SKY
PHOTOGRAPHER: Simone Carvalho
(Student)
LOCATION: Vancouver, Canada
SETTING: Manual
PURPOSE OF THE SHOT: I wanted to
try and get the slow movement of the
waves as the boat passed by with the
surrounding area.
CAMERA MODEL: Canon EOS 550D
ISO: 1600
SHUTTER SPEED: f6
TIP: Go clicker-crazy where ever you
are because you never know when you
will find the perfect shot. Imagination
is key .
PHOTOGRAPHER: Aamir Akhtar
(Insurance Professional)
LOCATION: Kuala Lumpur Bird
Park, Malaysia
SETTING: Manual
PURPOSE OF THE SHOT:
I wanted to capture a scene that is
seldom found.
CAMERA MODEL: Canon 550D
F-STOP/APERTURE: f 5.6
ISO: 1600
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/320 secs.
TIP: Trust your aesthetic sense
and shoot the scene you think
works best.
PHOTOGRAPHER: Kingsley Swamidoss
LOCATION: Hiking trail
SETTING: Aperture-priority AE
PURPOSE OF THE SHOT: The photo shows a puddle of water by the side a trail.
It reflects back-lit tree leaves from the tree canopy above.
CAMERA MODEL: Canon T3i
F-STOP/APERTURE: f/3.5
ISO: 400
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/60 sec
TIP: It does not matter where you are, there is always a moment to capture. All you
have to do is “see”.
CELEBRATING THE
Write your greetings to the UAE on the occassion
of it’s 40th anniversary this year. Go to www.
tempoplanet.com in ‘Forum’ (tab on the top
left) and leave a message and your name.
UAE’S 40TH ANNIVERSARY
BESIDES HIGH PAYING JOBS,
WHAT IN YOUR OPINION
ATTRACTS PEOPLE TO RESIDE IN
THE UAE?
NEXT MONTH’S QUESTION:
(ADDRESSED TO EXPATRIATES)
What in your view can your
community contribute to
the UAE?
IF THE UAE CAPITALISED ON
ITS CURRENT ASSETS, HOW DO
YOU THINK IT CAN TRANSFORM
ITSELF 100 YEARS FROM NOW?
There are many things that distinguishes the
UAE from other countries. Tax free income,
safety, and the availability of a thriving night
life attract people to live in this country. Also,
the opportunities for entrepreneurs to establish
their own businesses are abundant. It is a dream
land where anything could happen.
I believe the UAE will be a world class developed
nation, and a pioneer in the field of renewable
energy, with a very diversified and tolerant
culture.
L
WITH
Name: Sharifa Mohammed
Occupation: Student at University
College London
RA
AI
N
I
H
MA
N
A
send us your views to [email protected]
Name: George Bekhazi
Occupation: Research Executive
People are drawn here due to the expectation
of financial stability as well as personal
security for themselves and their families,
along with the fact that the UAE allows them
to experience certain luxuries that otherwise
might not have been available to them.
The UAE’s greatest asset is the human capital it
currently has, both local and expatriate pools.
By capitalizing on this asset, the UAE will be
able to position itself as a true multicultural
melting pot with a population working
towards the betterment of the nation rather
than just themselves.
Name: Mohammed Ahmed
Occupation: Diplomatic Attaché
Many things attract people to live in our country, say for
instance because income is tax free. People are friendly
and tolerant, and the weather is bearable (to an extent) in
the sense that we don’t have rough winters. The lifestyle is
carefree and comfortable, and there are different kinds of
entertainment and living environments that suit people
from different classes and backgrounds.
One hundred years is a long time away! Anything could
happen. Al Ain’s horizon could become a beautiful skyline,
and people could be flying and living on clouds. Anything
is possible!
Name: Rachel Lange
Occupation: CEPA Supervisor
I can only speak for myself. When I left my country seven years ago and came here, the UAE was exotic and interesting. I
wanted to interact with different cultures and see another part of the world. That initial attraction is still there, but what
really keeps me here is the lifestyle. People here prioritize leisure and time spent with friends and family. In my country,
people typically work 40-50 hour weeks and get two weeks off a year.
100 years from now, I imagine that the world will be less dependent on fossil fuels-- either the oil will have run out, or we’ll
have gotten to the point where we just can’t do any more damage to the environment. In either case, the investments that
the UAE has made in other industries will be what matters. Assuming the nation continues to make higher education freely
available to its citizens, the next few generations of Emiratis will be some of the most highly educated people in the world.
The cultural investments the country has made, in terms of arts institutions, etc., will have had time to mature and become
institutions rather than trendy novelties. By then, all of the construction on Salaam Street should be finished.
Name: Sultan Saeed Al Darmaki
Occupation: Analyst/Writer
In my opinion what attracts people the most and makes them
want to reside in the UAE are a number of factors: one, this
country is relatively safer than most countries around the world
with low crime rates due to the stability of the country and an
efficient police force, two, little or no taxes at all thanks to our
budget surplus, three, our friendliness towards other cultures
and our tolerance of other religions, and four, overall UAE
population is fluent in the English language thus eliminating
the linguistic barrier which is faced by most foreigners when
they reside in another country. However I firmly believe that
what attracts people to UAE is that the country is a living
testament to the greatness of one man, the late Sheikh Zayed
bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the country.
The one asset I truly believe that the UAE has is the Emirati
people. If we capitalize on them by investing in the educational
system, social development programmes and leadership
training, it will not only develop their minds and attitude but
will also shape them into a force that will easily make the
UAE one of the most developed countries in the world, or, the
country that sets the global standards of excellence. Needless
to say, if we can capitalize on the Emirati people, then in a 100
year’s time, the UAE will be seen as the kind of country that
others would take a 1,000 years to develop into.
Name: Shamim Kassibawi
Occupation: PR/Social Media Consultant & Video Blogger
I know people complain about the weather, however I personally prefer the UAE’s weather to
colder climates. The UAE is amazing when it comes to opportunity, and in my opinion that is
its biggest attraction. The country gives you the opportunity to achieve things you can never
achieve in other countries. Have you ever tried walking down the street and heard the amount of
languages and accents? It is amazing how the UAE brings so many cultures together.
With the large number of nationalities, cultures, and experiences we have in the UAE, I really feel
that if the UAE gives expats and locals the tools and opportunities, we can take this country to
new levels. We are already way ahead of the rest of the region and if the UAE continues the way
it has been going in various industries such as construction and media then we are bound to take
over the spotlight from the rest of the world.
THE DUBAI
ROADSTERS
CYCLING CLUB
Key Person- Wolfi Hohmann
Others- Helen Rodd, Ian Thomas, Michael Sagermann, Julio Sanchez
The group is open to everyone with the fitness
to keep up, and a bike that will allow them to
do that. Wearing a helmet, and lights on your
bike are mandatory, both for your safety as a
rider, and because that is the law in Dubai.
There are other (less intense) rides, as well,
and those are generally recommended for
someone starting out with the club, that is
unless you are very confident of your fitness
level.
Each week, there are several planned training rides, which
culminate in the “Friday Morning Ride”, a fast and competitive
ride through the outskirts of the city, during one of the relatively
traffic free periods of the week.
The Dubai
Roadsters
Cycling
Club was
established
in the late
1990s, but it
didn’t really take off until
Wolfi Hohmann started a new bicycle
shop in Dubai, 10 years ago. His support
to the group came through Wolfi’s Bike
Shop, allowing the passion of the existing
members to feed a whole new phase in the
evolution of cycling as a sport in Dubai. The
club now has 150-250 members, referred
to as Core Riders, riding each week.
That ride has three skill groups, with each level getting longer
and faster. They do either an 80km, a 100km, or 120km ride in
the summer, and add 20km to the long group in the winter, for
a 140km loop. The pace for Friday is fast, usually between 3440km/h average.
Photo credits- Esam Hassanyeh, Jenn Chiam, Gareth Evans and
Enrique Klien
You can get in touch with them to find out when they ride next or to check out their
pictures through their website www.dubairoadsters.com
DOC IN THE HOUSE
Dr.DMS
| A Doc from the Bronx
LIVE WELL
Layla Ezzedeen | Performance Whiz and Feng Shui Practitioner
LET’S TALK
FENG SHUI BASICS
YOU TELL ME WHERE YOUR SKELETON’S HIDING
TELL ME ALL AND I’LL TELL YOU,”
ANSWERS GOLDFINGER
HOW TO FENG SHUI YOUR ROOM
Let me start by welcoming myself back to Abu Dhabi after a great summer
break in sunny Southern California. I was able to spend four weeks as
myself, a normal guy and not having to play doctor. It was so nice to
“switch off” and occupy my time with people watching, skateboarding
and biking along the beach. But all good things must come to an end, and
I like to think in my case, I just put those good things on hold. I swapped
brains and personality for a while. But while away, I got to thinking about
this column, and I had an epiphany: you guys know about me, but I know
nothing about any of you.
So far, I have shared many of my doctor secrets, but
now, I think it’s time for you to share with me. And as
they say, sharing is caring, and that’s why I am here.
This is my opportunity to turn the table on you guys
and get to know you all much better. It’s time to make
this column interactive.
Some of you may ask, why? Or, who cares? I do, and I know others do as
well. I am not talking about the Mother Teresa type of caring. I am referring
to the primordial “I can’t stop watching this disaster”-type of caring,
or curiosity. I know that someone out there has some sort of unusual
medical/health question, which needs an answer. Say, ”can I get diseases
from the toilet seat?”, “is this wart unusual?”, ” is it true I can get fat if I
just drink sodas all day?” etc.... Maybe you never had the opportunity to
ask anyone, maybe you were too embarrassed to ask, or maybe you were
just too lazy. Well, now it’s your time. The stage is all yours. No waiting in
the dirty emergency room surrounded by foul odors and crazy people, no
needles, no rush and no medical bills! Now it’s your time to be heard, and
I am all ears, or should I say, we are all ears.
Feel free to ask whatever you like, and I will attempt to answer. Please
understand that I will not be able to get to them all, but I will select a few
“random” inquiries, and answer them as best as I can.
So you’ve cleared your junk and issues (I know you’ve
followed all the advice given so far)… Now let’s create
the new. When it comes to Feng Shui, you’ve probably
heard the famous slogan “move your furniture around
and change your life.” Have doubts? Then try the
following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Place your bed against a wall (without windows) that does not have
a toilet on the other side and such, so that you can see the door and
windows fully from where you put your head down to sleep. All of
these conditions must apply.
Do not store anything under the bed – this should have been done
in the decluttering stage.
Don’t keep plants in the bedroom or near your bed if you live in one
room.
Place your desk in a similar position as your bed. If both your bed
and desk are in your room, the bed takes priority. Make sure that at
the very least that you see the door when sitting at your desk. And
no, it shouldn’t face the wall while you’re working or studying – it
limits your thinking.
Keep a plant next to every major piece of electronic equipment and
don’t keep electronics in your bedroom when you sleep. Visit my
page and look for the cell-phone risk link, by way of example.
Keep the toilet seat cover down – the whole thing, boys. Do this and
watch your money grow. Magic? Maybe, but in my business, results
are the name of the game.
In general, Feng Shui advice is implemented gradually. However, the
above suggestions are quite necessary and foundational to the rest of the
process, so implement them all.
Once this is done, take a break; don’t decorate or re-decorate. Give the
changes time to set in, just ensuring that your space is clean and clutterfree. If you have any concerns about how to implement these, give me a
hoot on my Facebook page.
And reader(s) please don’t worry, you will not be outed. This will be kept
anonymous. So, let’s learn a little medicine and a little about each other.
Variety is the spice of life, and Abu Dhabi is a good place to start.
Send in your queries to [email protected]
Need help? Share your thoughts on my
Facebook page
2ND ANNIVERSARY
DEDICATIONS TO TEMPO
I have watched Tempo grow from a baby to an adult, and am proud to see
how large and influential it has become. The biggest boon was when it had
completely revamped itself, and I was glad to be part of that. A word out to
all you peeps, Tempo’s the ONLY magazine, with a personal touch... Throw in
your ideas, share in your thoughts, get involved.. That’s what Tempo is about..
your voice and everyone elses - Ellaine Fatima
I have been a contributor since the
early days of Tempo. Sana “discovered”
me from my blog Abu Dhabi
Dispatches that I originally started
to keep folks back home informed
of my new home. I was so excited
to be invited to write a column for
the magazine. I have seen a lot of
changes since then, (all for the best)
as Tempo matures and finds its niche
as a unique influence in our wonderful
city. Nothing else comes close in
content and style. I have fun and great
experiences covering events and being
allowed to sometime speak my mind as
the Yank in Sandland. The creative and
hardworking staff has been wonderful
to work with and I assure all the
readers that you are the reason for all
the effort. We appreciate you!
Happy second anniversary, Tempo!
- Randy Parker
Tempo, to me, is the beat of our
life! No one chooses it for you, no
one can tell you what it is; you can’t
mimic somebody else’s beat; you
have to find where your bliss lies
and only you can find your rhythm
in life. Become one with the rhythm
and it will take you places you have
only dreamt of. So let go of your
inhibitions, give in - feel the beat,
feel the Tempo! - Kulsoom Zakir
Congratulations to Tempo for
completing two years. Look forward
to seeing this magazine grow
manifold. Tempo has been a fun,
light and informative read, and wish
to see more of it - Neena Rai
Tempo, I’m really happy I’ve found
you. You are a great source for the
youth to be heard. Tempo is all
about the community, which is
why I love it. It is genuinely about
the community. Love you! Keep
going and improving! You’re doing a
fabulous job so far! - Lean Abadi
It was wonderful working with a
dedicated, passionate and friendly
team at Tempo. Sana, you’re a true
inspiration! I wish Tempo all the best
of luck. You guys are the best ;) Venita Subramanian
I started writing for Tempo about 18
months ago because I’m a journalist at
heart and love opportunities to think
up stories, cover them, talk to people,
and write up the results - even though
it’s been years since journalism was
my primary job. I picked up Tempo
originally because the editor Sana
Bagersh was a friend; when she
suggested I might write a story or
two, I jumped at that enthusiastically,
so much so that I became features
editor and then writer of a regular
column about media. Where else
could I have the chance to work with
professionals who are dedicated,
talented, and great people? Tempo is
unique that way in this market.
- Alma Kadragic
ARTICULATE
Neena Rai | An artist with a flair
GENIUS AND SUCCESS
JUST HANDCRAFTED
Preethi Janice D’Sa | Scientist-artiste hybrid
BABY STEPS TOWARDS CREATIVE FREEDOM
One of the most common opinions passed about art relates to talent and
genius… we always equate genius with supernatural gift (perhaps people
are born with it?) or with precocity (a famous example is Picasso).
He was exceedingly famous from early on in his career and any painting
created by him in his twenties was worth four times as much as those
he painted in his forties. On the other hand, for Cezanne, the opposite
is true; he was actually a very average young artist who bloomed much
later in life. As a result, the paintings he created in his mid sixties became
valued fifteen times as much as paintings he created as a young man. Yet
by definition, he was a genius too…
And if you were to ask me what is the difference between Picasso and
Cezanne, I would say it had little to do with natural talent but more to
do with the support, loyalty and patronage they received from others.
Picasso had a twenty year headstart on Cezanne as he was born into art.
His father was a famous artist and an art teacher. He also came from a
family with old money (read patronage, support, easy PR and access to
the best galleries). Picasso’s father also used his connections to influence
newspapers to promote his work, to the public and to jury members at art
contests that he participated in. By the time he was 25, he was thought
to be a genius!
Cezanne, our other genius, was not a famous artist because he didn’t
exhibit outstanding talent early on; he was a banker’s son, and compared
to Picasso, he had a 20 year late start to his career. He only decided to
go to Paris at the behest of a friend, who was happy to support him
(none other than famous artist Emile Zola). His father (the banker) paid
for his expenses most of his early adult life. He was also supported and
encouraged by other famous artists like Pissaro, Degas, Renoir and the
art dealer Vollard. And he had his solo show at the age of 56 sponsored
by Vollard. Imagine, 56!
We believe that matters like loyalty, steadfastness, and the desire to
continue writing cheques to support what looks like a failure have nothing
to do with “genius”, but, surprisingly
enough it has everything to do with
it, and Cezanne’s story demonstrates
that. His success was contingent on the
efforts of others, a fact that is especially
true today. So the truism is that to be a
successful artist, apart from your basic
talent, you really do need patronage and
Visit Neena’s blog and website
ongoing support.
The great England holiday did me good. A temporary return to nature walking in the woods, climbing hills and outdoor camping – all have got
me in the mood for creating goofy men accessories. Talking of which,
here are my favourite handcrafted products created by Artisans of the
Emirates members (www.arte.ae) for the UAE gentleman, Cute Camel
passport covers by Carrie Wareham of Black Sheep Art Studio, the one
dirham coin key rings by Colin Roberts of 2R Gallery, and super Mario
themed cufflinks by Paul Townsend ‘Beaujangles.’ Photos shown here
were graciously taken by talented ARTE-san, Feroz Khan.
A bit about my own journey with ARTE: ARTE provided me the much
needed outlet to vent my creative frustrations. One thing led to another.
I went from jewelry making to creative arts feature writing and am on
the way towards creative entrepreneurship. That’s how the Cultural Arts
Travelogue was born, an outlet is to celebrate handcrafted adventures
encountered on my travels.
I have since come across several creative artistes who are so scared to take
that first step that is crucial to stay ‘sane.’ I know how you feel, I’ve been
there (and I’m still there, but taking baby steps forward all the same!).
So, here’s the question: are you a blocked creative artiste, a de-motivated
handcrafter, creative arts professional or arts business owner struggling
to find your creative path? I’m currently working on a handcrafters/
creative arts book series where I will be sharing compiled advice from
thought leaders spanning areas of business planning, blogging, finance,
marketing, sales, coaching and more.
These will be made available for purchase through the Cultural Arts
Travelogue, along with free white papers and taster podcasts. Is there
anything specific that you would like me to address? Write to me at
[email protected].
Here’s to encouraging and empowering you to handcraft beautiful things,
beautiful businesses and super-beautiful
lives. And here’s to ARTE.
Preethi Janice D’Sa owns a boutique
medical arts copywriting business and
Janys De jewelry line. Join the handcrafted
advocate’s trips and treats at https://www.
facebook.com/CulturalArtsTravelogue
THRILLER: SUDDEN DECEPTION
ABU DHABI BASED AUTHOR PUBLISHES HER FIRST NOVEL
Judith Price may have over 20 years
experience in the fields of business,
marketing and sales, with six years
spent on developing and selling
software solutions for her own
company but her heart was always
set on becoming a novelist. Tempo
sat down to talk to her about her
first book, Sudden Deception, and
this is what she had to say.
How long have you been writing?
I have been toying with a novel for over
fifteen years. But recently, I have been able
to write full-time. I wrote the majority of
this story while residing in Abu Dhabi, and in North America.
Why did you start to write?
Quite simply, it’s fun. It’s a glorious feeling to create something that I deem to
be cool. I particularly like when something comes together. Whether a scene or
a character discovers something that I never knew existed.
How did you find time to write?
Well I wrote most of Sudden Deception: A Jill Oliver Thriller while floating
around the Arabian Sea. It was a thirty six footer and while my husband took
naps or was sunning, I with notebook and pen in hand would lose myself in my
story. I think the most interesting part of writing to me is when my hand moves
fast as it collides with my thoughts. When the words splash out on the paper it
becomes a magical experience.
Why the thriller genre?
I am very interested in current events and how they shape our global landscape.
I tackle some big issues that interest me. I hope that even though I am writing
fiction, I can educate the readers and give them something to think about. Since
my favorite writers are in this genre, it interests me to create suspense.
Do you always know the whole story, including the ending, when you
begin?
Never. I usually transform the character as I write and when the plot is achieved
I decide where to end it.
Do you have a favorite character in your own novels?
I love all my characters. I would have to say Leila is one of them because she
says what’s on her mind, something that most people in real life struggle with.
Right now I am engrossed in Matthew McGregor as he is a psychopath and a
serial killer. I surprise myself that I can give him a voice and he scares the hell
out of me.
How do you recommend new writers get started?
This is a question that I get asked a lot. I believe that everyone has a novel in
them waiting. I hope to inspire others by never giving up. I know I have done
this with a few people and inspiration is my quest in all aspects of my life.
Where can we find your book?
The e-book can be bought from amazon.com and the paperback will be available
soon. The first three chapters of the book are available for free download.
An excerpt from Sudden Deception:
Chapter One
11:12 Zulu Time—CATALINA
MOUNTAINS, TUCSON, ARIZONA.
One week earlier
Judith Price
Every successful covert operation has
four vital elements. Or so the saying
went in any military organization.
Shoot. Move. Communicate. Survive.
Jill Oliver sighed…survive. She could do the other three easily. The last
one? Well, that was the game, wasn’t it? The soft rumble of the hemi in
the Dodge Charger kept Jill company as she raced along the highway.
The clock on the dashboard read 04:12. Blackness stretched across the
early morning sky speckled with stars. Pretty soon dawn would flow
over the east mountains like bright lava. Being awakened early in the
morning was part of her job. Not something she cherished about her
duties as a US Marshall—but there it was.
Shoot. Move. Communicate. Survive.
As a terrorist profiler for the Special Operations Group, a division of the
US Marshall Service, Jill normally exuded self-confidence. Her long jetblack hair hung in a tight ponytail, barely touching her lean, muscular
shoulders, as she swerved the car down the mountain road. Even with
the hot black coffee in her stomach working to awaken her fully, she
wasn’t feeling particularly confident. Something felt wrong.
She was thinking about the case that had been gnawing at her. It was a
critical case. The welfare of what was known as the world’s strongest
superpower, the U.S., was at stake—even more so than what had been
reported to the public. She knew the truth.
She had been working on this case for some time now. Today, there
finally seemed to be a breakthrough. Therefore Jill didn’t mind being
summoned to Virginia in the middle of the dark night, because lately
her mind would not let her rest. She had seen proof that Matta Al
Jazerra, Al Qaeda’s new number one, had purchased uranium at a
bargain basement price of $12 million. She had also seen the recent
intel report sighting Matta in Brazil. It was all too close to home for her
liking, given what else she knew.
It wasn’t yet in the news or released to the public that a former Soviet
official, now leader of the Chechen clan on Manhattan Island, had been
arrested after a small stockpile of tactical nuclear devices were found
buried in a New York state junkyard owned by this mobster. This proved
what the Chief of Military Research and Development had stated in a
high-security brief—nuclear devices had been smuggled into the U.S.
and buried at several locations on U.S. soil. The fact that Al Qaeda and a
group of Chechens were working together was even more worrisome.
The pile of folders stacked on the front seat seethed with papers pushing
past its limits. Jill was dressed in her usual blue windbreaker with US
MARSHALL branded in large, bright yellow letters on the back. Black
fatigues hugged her lean quads as her foot pushed ever so slightly,
vibrating the 450 horsepower through her body. Jill loved playing with
the fierce power of the bright red car.
MEDIA COLUMN
DO WE HAVE A
FILM INDUSTRY
IN THE UAE?
By Alma Kadragic
“We don’t really have a film industry here,” said
Ali Mostafa, director of City of Life, the first full
length feature film by an Emirati, at a recent talk
in Dubai. Mostafa knows what he’s talking about
after struggling with financing to make the film
and censorship once it was done. Only thanks to
a last minute decision by HH Sheikh Mohammed
bin Rashid Al Maktoum was City of Life shown at
the Dubai Film Festival in December 2009.
Two years later, Mostafa is working on his next feature, a road comedy titled
From A to B, meaning from Abu Dhabi to Beirut, and has plans for a third
film which he calls “major” later in 2012-13. But if there is nothing new from
Mostafa in the three big film festivals that open in the last quarter of this year,
works by other Emiratis will be featured, as the baby film industry struggles to
get past the crawling stage.
This month the first of the big three opens, the 5th edition of the Abu Dhabi
Film Festival (ADFF) to be held at the Abu Dhabi Theater, Vox Cinemas at
Marina Mall, and a new outdoor venue at the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hotel
from October 14-22. The Fairmont will also be the site of ADFF’s headquarters
during the Festival.
The films to be shown at ADFF have been announced and can be seen on
www.abudhabifilmfestival.ae. One of them is Sea Shadow from the Emirati
filmmaker Nawaf Al-Janahi because the film was financed by Imagenation,
part of the Abu Dhabi Media Company.
ADFF received more than 1500 entries for its Short Film Competition from
which 31 films from 23 countries were selected. They include five world
premieres, more shorts from the Middle East than in the past, and the first
ever submission from Kosovo.
One of ADFF’s major contributions to developing the film industry is the SANAD
fund which started last year with USD 500,000 to help Arab filmmakers during
the development or post production phases of their work. Three Egyptian
filmmakers received the awards this year. Others may receive SANAD grants
in early 2012.
Moments after the Abu Dhabi Film Festival ends on October 22, the 3rd Doha
Tribeca Festival opens on October 25 with the world premiere of Black Gold,
the Middle East’s first big budget extravaganza. Produced by Tarak Ben Ammar
with Quinta Productions and the Doha Film Institute, it’s the story of two emirs
who fight over the oil or black gold recently found in the Arabian peninsula.
Antonio Banderas and Freida Pinto are the big name stars in the production
directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud and filmed in Qatar and Tunisia.
During five days from October 25-29, Doha Tribeca, the shortest of the three
festivals, also screens the fewest films, 40 this year. Doha Tribeca also supports
the development of the local and regional film industry with programs to
assist young filmmakers who benefit from the link with the original Tribeca
Festival in New York.
Not yet a film industry? Maybe not, but definitely growing and on the way.
Last of the big three is the oldest, the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF)
from December 7-14 now in its 8th year. Filmmakers from Asia, Africa, and
the Arab world submitted more than 1400 films for consideration in various
categories. Only 36 of them will receive awards.
DIFF’s development program is Enjaaz which distributes up to USD 100,000
to Arab filmmakers either from the Middle East or anywhere. This year 110
entries came in from 17 countries. Twelve films have been shortlisted, and the
winners will be announced during the Festival as well as the next group of
shortlisted films.
THE SOCIAL NET
Tamakkan, the entrepreneurship and innovation organization, is back with a new line up
of seminars. The next Tamakkan will be on 5 October 2011 at Mamoura Auditorium from
6-8pm. This is a free seminar but registration is required.
THE PROGRAMME:
Tim Mace, Managing Director of Tenzing Marketing Consultancy, a Dubai based
company that provides brand launch, rejuvenation and management services.
TOPIC: SEVEN DEADLY SINS OF MARKETING (AND A FEW POSITIVE SUGGESTIONS TOO) Details: This presentation will use real examples to illustrate some of the key pitfalls in
marketing and encourage the audience to think deeper before they engage with their
customers. Presented with lots of images - many from the UAE market - intended to
raise awareness of the need for genuine customer empathy among brand owners and
managers.
Aleksandar Nikolic, an Independent Licensed LifeSuccess Consultant for
Bob Proctor’s Life Success programme, and specialist in the field of human
development and corporate growth.
TOPIC: THINKING INTO SUCCESS
Details: This discussion talks about the law of cause and effect, what success is, how
people interpret success, and how individuals can set goals to achieve tangible results
that will make them more happy, healthy and wealthy.
Susan Macaulay, a “social mediapreneur,” Creator & Curator of
AmazingWomenRock.com, SheQuotes.com with significant worldwide
followings on associated FB & Twitter accounts.
TOPIC: RANDOM OBSERVATION OF AN INTERNET WARRIOR
Details: FB? Twitter? What works & what doesn’t: tales from the trenches from someone
who has been there (and still is!). Real life examples and data from Susan’s site and
accounts. Bring your social media questions.
ALSO ON THE PROGRAMME:
1. INSPIRATION: Inspirational short poem by Iranian-American poet Bahareh about the
spirit of entrepreneurship and growth.
2. ANNOUNCEMENT: Dr. Rick Van Sant of Abu Dhabi University introduces an upcoming
mobile learning conference that will explore cutting edge learning technologies.
3.INTRODUCTION: An opportunity for entrepreneurs to join the business delegation
organised by the UAE Ministry of Foreign Trade to the Jakarta Trade Expo and the
Guangzhou Canton Fair in October to help SMEs source new products and develop new
alliances.
Be sure to register early as seats are limited, and feel free to pass on this
invitation to others who may benefit from this knowledge sharing platform.
Tamakkan provides a wonderful opportunity for entrepreneurs and
intrapreneurs to learn, share and network.
To register, contact Priya on 02-6673349 (ask for a map if you’re not certain of the
location). Or email : [email protected].
Sponsored by JBI/ Aldar, BrandMoxie and Jones the Grocer.
Asif Mumtaz Khan | Lives & breathes digital
STAYING AHEAD OF THE GAME
WHAT TO DO, AND NOT DO, IN MEDIA MONITORING
Whether you are actively monitoring traditional media for your brand, or
just dipping your toes into the deep and ever-changing ocean of social
media chatter, you need to realise that monitoring and measurement are
more important than ever for companies. You can measure the impact of
your spokespeople, manage your reputation by understanding influencers,
scan arising issues, and manage crises in digital and traditional media.
Top Media Monitoring Crimes:
• Responding to everything: Most companies work with limited
resources, so it’s advisable that you prioritise what you monitor online
and weigh the conversations you want to be a part of.
• Trust in automated dashboards: Trust in on-going human
interaction and interpretation is essential for getting real value. A
mistake that companies are making is buying into a dashboard and
expecting insights handed to them on a plate. Months later they look
back and wonder why the dashboard hasn’t changed their business.
• Lack of environment awareness: Some brands are only monitoring
their company name. Instead, understanding your competitive
landspace is a key element of any strategic digital planning process.
• Not monitoring digital: Damage to your brand reputation can
happen because of some bad or fake reviews somewhere on the
internet which can give a bad impression to your prospects or other
customers.
• Seeking cheap services: What appears inexpensive on the surface
may have hidden costs. Seek the service with the most comprehensive
reach, speedy content delivery and accurate content filtering
mechanism.
• Opting for free services: Free monitoring services provide
sufficient coverage and features for some companies, but they can
be costly in terms of time required for searches, the complex search
conditions that need to be built, the absence of a customer service
interface, insufficient audience/ ROI stats provided and so on. For any
organization using a social media monitoring, the service needs to be
time, cost and resource efficient.
• Poor crisis and issues management: Some companies start
monitoring the media after their brand is hit by a crisis. A crisis can hit
your business any time, day or night and it is essential to be updated
as news breaks across the internet, keeping yourself abreast of all
developments. Information should be accessible anywhere and, if
possible, by phone and SMS alerting services.
Companies should acquire in-depth knowledge of the industry in which
they operate and identify threats and opportunities. They need to
understand their brand perception in the media because if these are not
dealt with carefully, their brand value can be compromised over time.
YANK IN THE SANDLAND
Randy Parker | Captain America in Exile
JUST A THOUGHT
Manar Al Hinai
A Khaleeji girl who overthinks a lot
and loves to write
THREE TYPES OF PEOPLE
I CAN LIVE WITHOUT
THE END OF THE WORLD, OR
THE BEGINNING OF THE END?
We all know them, the people we come in contact
with during our daily lives that make our day
turn for the worse. The ones, who through their
behaviors, make us ashamed to be a part of the
human race. I do not pretend to be perfect by any
means, but it seems some go out of their way to
be annoying.
My friends and colleagues keep referring to 2012 as the year that will
mark the end of the world, or at least the beginning of the end…
SPITTERS
Nothing worse than witnessing a public spitter. Not only do they do it on a
sidewalk I share with them, the act is usually announced with very loud nasal
and throat noises before the pavement deposit is produced. I am not a queasy
person by nature but this tests my resolve.
QUEUE CUTTERS
Normally, the ticket system works quite well in the UAE. You know, take a
number out of the machine and sit down and wait your turn. When this
system is not in place, some people seem to have a misguided belief that
their business is much more important than yours and will attempt to take
their place at the front of an otherwise orderly line. Bad idea as me and others
in the line may take umbrage at your self-importance and bodily harm to you
becomes a very real possibility.
BAD DRIVERS
Yes, the ones who cut across three lanes of traffic to make the Mussafah exit.
I don’t mind if your level of self-preservation is lower than mine, but please
don’t put me in survival mode every time I go out to get a dozen eggs. Trust
me, your home and family will still be there if you get there three minutes
later. You are playing with your life and mine; it’s just not worth it. Also, learn
how to park; I am tired of having to get into my car through the passenger
window!
I realize the UAE is a melting pot of many
cultures but some things are best left back
home. It is not easy but we all need to
get along. I am an easygoing guy and just
think with a little more awareness of those
around us, things can be much better for
us all.
Visit Randy's blog on your smart phone
Hollywood has produced numerous pictures featuring the event such as
2012, Deep Impact, and The Day After Tomorrow.
Somehow these movies have ended up on my “favorite movies” list.
I love science fiction, and how authors’ imaginations play with and
weave anticipated events occurring in that horrific year. I am also
interested to know how people react to these kinds of movies.
Recently, I have been receiving many BlackBerry
messenger broadcasts from friends and relatives,
with a video link of a western college professor, who
has predicted the recent earthquakes that struck the
USA. In his video he stated that “2012” was all a media
game, a false date, and rather that the world will face
major natural disasters this year, in September 2011, a
day after my sister’s birthday.
Though he provided scientific proof, alongside images of how the
planets will be aligned on the day of the events, I do not fully believe
his theory, because at the end of the day only God knows. Still, he still
got me thinking.
Whether the end of the world is this year, or one hundred years from
now, we should appreciate life and enjoy it. We should overlook the
past, its pain, and all the negativities, and live each day as if it is our
last.
Do good deeds, laugh, pray, and be content with what
God has given us. If we take a look around and see
people’s sufferings in war zones and famine areas, we
realize how truly blessed we are, and that is more than
enough reason to be happy.
So dear readers, enjoy your week,
month, and year, and help those in
need. And remember that a smile is a
great remedy.
(P.S. September 2011 came and went
without the arrival of Armaggedon, so
remember this next time you get that
ominous BB message.)
Follow me on twitter @manar_alhinai
HOROSCOPE
Aries (21 March - 19 April)
Slow down this month. There are just too many irons in the fire for your own good. There is
also the danger of getting caught daydreaming, as a new romantic interest could enter your
life around the 11th. Be wise and keep things turn down to a low simmer. All is not as rosy as it
appears. Be mindful of communications from those around you.
Taurus (20 April - 20 May)
Your career is in full blossom this month and there is much activity there. Be careful about it
taking too much time away from you home life. It could be doing damage you are unaware of.
Shore up financial leaks this month and double-check your budget for errors. This will avoid a
possible nasty surprise.
Gemini (21 May -20 June)
You must be on guard this month to avoid getting or giving the wrong impression to anyone.
Consider others motives carefully before making decisions. If possible, postpone any big decision
until next month when your thinking is clearer. Mid way your career could get a boost. There is
also the possibility of traveling for business reasons.
Cancer (21 June - 22 July)
You’ve already started to look at those tax returns and things should be looking very good.
Jointly held finances are in fine shape, however keeping a daily grip on things is advised. There is
much activity on your job as well this month. Be careful not to overdo things and cause yourself
some irritating illness.
Leo (23 July - 22 August)
Romance and marriage seem to be on your mind this month. If you’re already committed to
another, concentrate on bolstering that relationship by showing your more sensitive side.
If single, there could be a new someone who, while very intriguing, they may not be all they
appear to be. Mid way your focus changes to jointly held finances and taxes. A raise could be in
the offering this month.
Virgo (23 August - 22 September)
There could be a tendency to overwork the first two weeks of this month, and that could lead to
some health issues for the remainder of the month. Slow down and take things in stride. Also,
avoid gossip in the workplace. Concentrate on your home life. Make an effort to spend time with
those who look to you for answers and comfort.
Libra (23 September - 22 October)
The Sun lights up your house of romance this month. There could be more than one
opportunity for romance. There is something of a warning here, though. Things may
not be all that they appear, so be wise about your heart this month. Be careful with
your words as they could get you into trouble. Take the time to think things through
very carefully before you speak. Commit to nothing until next month.
Scorpio (23 October - 21 November)
The home front has your attention this month. Pressure from your career could create
problems but someone may be making mountains out of molehills just to create a
diversion regarding your attentions. Keep a close eye on your finances this month. A
major setback could come your way, if you’re prepared; you can short circuit the event
in its tracks.
Sagittarius (22 November - 21 December)
Two areas can create problems for you this month. If you know where they are coming from, you
can do something about them. First, take good care with communications of all kinds. Secondly,
there could be a showdown regarding your committed other. Be ready to listen to what they
have to say. You’ll be spending more time at home. This will seem like a vacation from all that
happens this month, as you will feel very safe there.
Capricorn (22 December - 19 January)
Your finances are under fire this month. Watch your incoming as well as your outgoing cash.
Trust little of what you hear and be careful about revealing secrets regarding your own financial
position. Also, be careful not to over- work or extend yourself physically beyond your limits.
Aquarius (20 January - 18 February)
While you have been spending the last month dreaming about what you want, now is the time
to make the dreams come true. You shine this month and draw people to you. Be wise in words
that come and go between you and those committed to you. You could encounter someone who
catches your eye romantically.
Pisces (19 February - 20 March)
October is your down time month. Unfortunately, demands from your career keep you busier
than you would like to be. Remember, you eat an elephant one bite at a time. Mid way, the
energy begins to flow back into your life.
FUN•FAMILY•FOOD
AND LOTS OF GREAT DEALS!
OCTOBER 29
SATURDAY
2-6 PM
TERRACE OF THE
ONE TO ONE HOTEL
TO BOOK A TABLE OR FOR MORE INFO
CALL SHARON ON 02-6673349 OR
EMAIL [email protected]