ePathram - News

Speechcraft - A Must Do For Aspiring Speakers

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 14:15:00 +0000

Dubai : A Speechcraft program conducted by the ACE Toastmasters Club was concluded here at the Al Futtaim Training Center, Dubai on 11th February 2010. 25 individuals from different walks of life attended the program co-ordinated by Mr. Binu Shanker.

The ACE toastmasters club was formed as part of the KERA - Kerala Engineering Alumni - the association of engineers from Kerala in the UAE. The Speechcraft programme is conducted occasionally by the club to provide a crash course in public speaking and also to introduce new members to the functioning of the club.

Speechcraft coordinator Mr. Binu Shanker

The Speechcraft program allows experienced Toastmasters to present the fundamentals of public speaking to non-members in an atmosphere of a Toastmasters club meeting says Binu who is on his way up the leadership ladder of the Toastmasters club. It’s a great way to promote membership in your community or company club, as Speechcraft brings prospective new members to a meeting to see, first-hand, what Toastmasters is all about.

Speechcraft has several benefits. Participants become a part of your club meetings. They come to know and enjoy the club's fellowship while gaining confidence and training in their communication skills. Many Toastmasters members indicate they joined their club because they participated in a Speechcraft program. Clubs that conduct a Speechcraft program at least once each year have few membership problems.

Speechcraft also benefits the members of an existing club. The program gives club members new opportunities to exercise their communication and leadership abilities. It also increases interest and attendance among all members.

Speechcraft provides participants with a sample of the Toastmasters club experience, making it easier for participants to become members at the conclusion of the program.

Usually, Speechcraft participants are prospective new members for a club. They will join the club if they are impressed by the activities and members and can see the benefits they will gain from their experience.

Clubs usually charge a reasonable fee for conducting any Success/Communication and Success/Leadership program for nonmembers. The fee covers the program expenses (materials, refreshments, room rental). Any remaining money is placed in the club’s treasury. No individuals, educational institutions or other organizations are allowed to derive financial gain either directly or indirectly from the presentation of these programs.

Toastmasters International is a non - profit educational organization that teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of meeting locations.

Headquartered in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, the organization has more than 250,000 members in more than 12,500 clubs in 106 countries. Since 1924, Toastmasters International has helped people of all backgrounds become more confident in front of an audience.

Toastmasters International is the leading movement devoted to making effective oral communication a worldwide reality.

It is basic to this mission that Toastmasters International continually expand its worldwide network of member clubs, thereby offering ever-greater numbers of people the opportunity to benefit from its programs.

Toastmasters International empowers people to achieve their full potential and realize their dreams. Through our member clubs, people throughout the world can improve their communication and leadership skills, and find the courage to change.

Toastmasters International’s core values are integrity, dedication to excellence, service to the member, and respect for the individual. These are values worthy of a great organization, and we believe we should incorporate them as anchor points in every decision we make. Our core values provide us with a means of not only guiding but also evaluating our operations, our planning, and our vision for the future.

The origin

When people hear the word “basement” they’re more likely to picture mold and spiders than the birth place of a global communication and leadership training organization. But a basement in a YMCA in Santa Ana, California, is exactly where, in 1924, Ralph C. Smedley held the first meeting of what would eventually become Toastmasters International.

Smedley began working as director of education for a Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) after he graduated from college. He observed that many of the young patrons needed “training in the art of public speaking and in presiding over meetings” and Smedley wanted to help them. He decided the training format would be similar to a social club. During the early 1900s the word “toastmaster” referred to a person who proposed the toasts and introduced the speakers at a banquet. Smedley named his group “The Toastmasters Club” because he thought it suggested a pleasant, social atmosphere appealing to young men.

When Smedley started the Toastmasters group at the YMCA in Santa Ana, California, members practiced speaking skills in a supportive, informal atmosphere. The seedling club blossomed. Word spread about Smedley’s YMCA experiment and soon people in other communities and even other states began asking for permission and help to start their own Toastmasters meetings. By 1930 the burgeoning clubs had established a federation to help coordinate activities and provide a standard program. Toastmasters became Toastmasters International after a speaking club in New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada, expressed interest in joining the organization.

A series of rented office spaces in Southern California served as Toastmasters International’s “home office” until 1962. That year the staff moved into its first World Headquarters building in Santa Ana, not far from the YMCA where the first Toastmasters club met.

Over the next three decades the number of Toastmasters grew, and so did the need for a larger staff to service them. World Headquarters relocated in 1990 to its new building in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, about 20 miles south of Santa Ana. See our timeline for a detailed account of Toastmasters' history.

The evolution of its educational programs and resources are a big part of Toastmasters International’s success and growth. Training has expanded from the 15-project manual Basic Training for Toastmasters, developed by Smedley, to include other materials to help members develop skills in listening, giving feedback, decision-making, delegating and mentoring.

Click to enlarge

With more than 12,500 clubs and more than 250,000 members in 106 countries, Ralph Smedley’s “basement brainstorm” continues to thrive in the 21st century. And through the Speechcraft programmes conducted occasionally, it attracts more and more aspiring speakers to the organization and help them learn the arts of speaking, listening, and thinking, vital skills that promote self-actualization, enhance leadership potential, foster human understanding, and contribute to the betterment of mankind.

Landmark Agreement Introduces Proton Cancer Therapy to the Middle East

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 30 Jan 2010 06:18:00 +0000

Dubai : The Qatar National Cancer Society and SAH Global announced today that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to make the next generation of cancer treatment, Proton Therapy, available to cancer patients in Qatar. The agreement, the first of its kind in the Middle East, promises to promote Proton Therapy as the primary treatment for cancer patients in the State of Qatar. Through this agreement, Qatari citizens and residents will gain access to a cutting edge cancer treatment that provides a higher quality of life and fewer side effects to those suffering from cancer.

The Qatar National Cancer Society (QNCS) in junction with SAH Global, with the signing of this agreement, will become pioneers of this treatment in the region. Through the agreement, SAH Global’s subsidiary SAH Care will coordinate end-to-end treatment through its arrangements with Proton Therapy centers around the world as of second quarter 2010. Consequently, Qatari patients will receive high-quality care and service through all aspects of treatment and travel. Even though waiting time for treatment can exceed 3 months in many cases, Qatari cancer patients will benefit from SAH Care’s network of providers to reduce time-to-treatment to a matter of weeks.

“With the signing of the agreement today we have reached a major milestone in the fight against cancer. The QNCS is committed to educating and helping cancer patients in their fight against cancer and this agreement will help us to further our goals and provide a higher quality of life for cancer patients from Qatar,” said Dr. Khalid Bin Jabor Al-Thani, Chairman of the Qatar National Cancer Society.

Feroz Agad, CEO of SAH Global said, “We believe this is the first critical step in creating awareness for this cutting edge and proven technology. We commend Dr. Khalid and the Qatar National Cancer Society for their visionary leadership in working to bring Proton Therapy to the people of Qatar.” SAH

Global is in the process of making cutting edge cancer treatments available to the Middle East. Additionally, SAH Global is committed to bringing next generation cancer treatments to the Middle East and is working with RHT Partners and other advisors to review the opportunity to build an initial flagship Proton Therapy center in the region. SAH Global plans to build a network of Proton Centers in the Middle East in order to better serve the growing number of cancer patients. SAH’s commitment to education will ensure that the Middle East will not only serve as an avenue for treatment, but also as a center for research and development in the fight against cancer.

The world's tallest tower, 'Burj Khalifa' is 828 metres high

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Wed, 06 Jan 2010 06:30:00 +0000

Dubai : The world's tallest tower, developed by Emaar Properties, was unveiled tonight to a crowd of thousands and the world in a crescendo of fireworks, lasers and fountain displays. The official height of the tower, unveiled as 'Burj Khalifa', was announced as 828 metres (2,716.5 ft). A closely guarded secret, the official height of Burj Khalifa was flashed onto a giant screen before an estimated crowd of more than 400,000, as lasers and fireworks lit up the night sky.

Fireworks cascaded from the tower's spire to the base and lasers blazed out from all levels leaving the crowds awestruck.

The height was disclosed in arithmetic progression, with the numbers being flashed onto the screen, one after another. The tower's height breaks all existing world records for tall buildings.

Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world according to the three main criteria of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH). The CTBUH ranks the world’s tallest buildings based on ‘Height to Architectural Top,’ ‘Height to Highest Occupied Floor’ and ‘Height to Tip.’

At 828 metres (2,716.5ft), Burj Khalifa is 320 metres taller than Taipei 101, which at 508 metres (1,667 ft) had held the record for the world’s tallest building measured to the architectural top since 2004, the year the project was announced.

Burj Khalifa achieved the distinction of being the world's tallest structure – surpassing the KVLY-TV mast (628.8 metres; 2,063 ft) in North Dakota, USA – 1,325 days after excavation work started in January 2004.

The tower also beats the 31-year-old record of CN Tower, which at 553.33 metres (1,815.5 ft) had been the world’s tallest free-standing structure on land since 1976.

Burj Khalifa employs a record-breaking 330,000 cubic metres of concrete, 39,000 metric tonnes of steel rebar and 142,000 square metres of glass; and it took 22 million man hours to build.

Other world records for Burj Khalifa include the highest occupied floor in the world, at over 550 metres (1,800 ft); the highest outdoor observation deck in the world – At the Top on Level 124; and the tallest service elevator, which travels to a height of 504 metres (1,654 ft).

Mr. Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties, said that with the unveiling of the final height of Burj Khalifa, the world now had a new reference point for high-rise developments.

“Burj Khalifa is an example of collaboration on a global scale, and the tremendous positive energy that can be generated when people from all over the world come together to work towards a common goal. Thousands of professionals and skilled workers from around the world worked on this once-in-a-lifetime project.”

“More than 60 of the world’s leading consultants including South Korea’s Samsung Corporation and New York-based Turner Construction International realised the design for Burj Khalifa of Chicago-based Skidmore, Owings and Merrill (SOM),” he said.

Burj Khalifa employed the latest advances in wind engineering, structural engineering, structural systems, construction materials and methods. All design considerations took into account the 12,000 people who will live and work in the tower. The handover to residents of the various components of Burj Khalifa will begin in February.

With a total built-up area of about 6 million sq ft, Burj Khalifa features nearly 2 million sq ft of residential space and over 300,000 sq ft of prime office space, in addition to the area occupied by the keenly awaited Armani Hotel Dubai and the Armani Residences. The tower also features modern lifestyle amenities including clubs, health and fitness facilities, gourmet restaurants and the 124th floor observation deck, 'At the Top.'

Burj Khalifa is the focal point of the 500-acre ‘mega-project’ by Emaar Properties, described as the new heart of Dubai.

DMCC launches world class Conference Centre at Jumeirah Lakes Towers

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 08:59:00 +0000

Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) today announced the official opening of Almas Conference Centre, a state-of-the-art facility that is positioned to create a world class corporate events destination in the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) community.

The Conference Centre is located in the ground level of the flagship, 65-storeyed Almas Tower in the heart of JLT free zone, the prime business district of New Dubai, master developed by DMCC. It houses the region’s first Diamond Exchange, the most sought-after address for the gem trade.

The Almas Conference Centre, the only one of its kind in the area, is custom-designed to host corporate conferences, conventions and exhibitions, with a touch of class that comes with all facilities in JLT. It is equipped with a spacious pre-event area for networking, bulk storage areas, office space, a full-fledged kitchen and catering facility, as well as the most sophisticated audio-video systems.

DMCC has partnered with hospitality specialists Atlantis, The Palm to manage the facility and deliver end-to-end corporate event marketing and logistical solutions for the 800-sq m Almas Conference Centre, which has a capacity to host 500 delegates at a time.

Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman of DMCC, said: “A unique global event facility deserves to be managed by a unique hospitality brand. That is why we chose Atlantis, The Palmas our partner to ensure world class services are delivered at every event hosted by Almas Conference Centre.’’

Being right next to Sheikh Zayed Road - the rapidly growing new Dubai business hub – is one of the most important characteristics of Almas tower the tallest office building in Dubai currently.

With the opening of the Almas Conference Centre, Almas has become Dubai’s most complete, all-inclusive business tower. It is already the hub for the region’s diamond industry and a vibrant free zone. The launch of Almas Conference Centre will elevate the urban quality of JLT to new levels.

DED trains over 150 cross-industry assessors for DQA and DHDA 2009 cycle

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:56:00 +0000

The Business Excellence Centre at the Department of Economic Development (DED) has reinforced its commitment to achieving high quality in the Emirate by conducting a series of comprehensive training sessions for senior and new assessors of the Dubai Quality Award (DQA) and Dubai Human Development Award (DHDA) 2009 cycle.

Aimed at enhancing the knowledge-base of DQA and DHDA assessors, the recent 13-day workshops were attended by more than 150 assessors representing different business sectors and nationalities. They were updated on the Dubai Quality Award and Dubai Human Development Award criteria and assessment process ahead of the assessment schedule for this year’s cycle of the award. The DQA and DHDA recruit and train new assessors every year based on the EFQM Model (non-assessed version). This year alone the Business Excellence Center trained around 65 new and 90 senior assessors for the DQA and DHDA.

The training for the DQA was conducted by Mr Norman Hughes, Business Improvement Consultant from Footloose Enterprises Ltd in the UK, who has been training the UK Quality Award Assessors for the past seven years. The training for the DHDA was conducted by Dr K.M. Madrecha, Senior Manager – Quality at the Business Excellence Center, DP World, who has been a Senior Assessor of the DQA for the past 10 years.

“While winning the award is indeed a special honour for participating companies, the feedback from the assessors holds great value for companies as it can be used as a starting point for identifying areas for improvement. The training for assessors thus becomes an extremely important aspect of the award process because it ensures uniform standard of assessment and consistency of evaluation,” said Mr Mohammed Juma Bushanain, Executive Director, Business Excellence Center at DED.

“The quality of the working methods of assessors within teams will directly impact assessment. Our focus has been on retaining experienced assessors as well as attracting new people who hold senior positions and have significant experience in quality management, human resources and general management, both locals and expatriates,” added Mr Bushanain.

“The senior assessors are eager to return for another cycle of assessment as they consider the training as added value to their personal development. The training helps them introduce the excellence criteria within their own organizations, thus ensuring that the message of quality spreads across the business community in Dubai,” Mr Bushanain added.

Launched in 1994, the Dubai Quality Award is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, who has been instrumental in driving the quality movement across the private and public sectors in the emirate. The DQA is the single most valuable framework for companies to implement a quality strategy to improve their effectiveness by involving all employees to meet objectives and achieve customer satisfaction at optimal costs.

The DQA is distributed in eleven key sectors that have a bearing on Dubai’s economy – Manufacturing, Professional, Tourism, Financial Services, Services, Trade, Construction, Health, Higher Education, Real Estate and Media.

Dubai Human Development Award was launched in 2002 to recognise and reward the HR initiatives taken by individual business organizations towards achieving Dubai Human Development goal. This not only involves providing work opportunities to UAE nationals, but also aims to develop their abilities and emphasize their role in the future of this country through intensive training and guidance.

First-ever Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts awards by Dubai Culture to honour path-breaking arts patronage

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 12:34:00 +0000

The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is reaching out to recognize patrons of the arts around the world who have made financial contributions towards enriching the artistic fabric of Dubai, through the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts awards.

To be presented next year, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts is the first of its kind initiative in the Arab world, announced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai in March 2009.

By recognizing the patrons behind the thriving arts scene in Dubai, Dubai Culture aims to stimulate the cultural sector of the region, catalyse the development of various art disciplines, strengthen the arts infrastructure and contribute to developing Dubai as center for content creation in the arts.

His Highness Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture said the initiative recognises the individual and organisation-backed patronage extended to culture and the arts. “Throughout the history of mankind, culture has flourished only under the generous patronage of people who appreciate and value their importance to the larger community. Their contributions have been vital in sustaining artist enthusiasm, encouraging people to pursue careers in art and in driving the growth of the sector.”

“Dubai has now become a vibrant hub for the arts in the region, thanks to the efforts of its patrons who have, until now, served as its unsung heroes. By honouring them, we are encouraging more like-minded individuals to step forward and recognise the long-term value of supporting the arts,” added His Highness Sheikh Majid. “This will help strengthen our creative infrastructure and also drive the participation of more artists through scholarships and funds. It will also drive our outreach to the youth through valuable educational initiatives in the arts.”

Dubai Culture is honouring patrons in the following categories: ‘Distinguished Patrons of the Arts,’ ‘Patrons of the Arts,’ ‘Supporters of the Arts,’ and ‘Friends of the Arts’ based on their contribution. The awards will be conferred during Art Dubai 2010, an art fair held annually in Dubai. Submissions can be made on-line at www.dubaiculture.ae shortly.

Individuals and organisations who have made financial contributions through sustained support to visual arts, performing arts, literature and poetry and films during 2007 to 2009, will be eligible for the awards.

The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts awards are envisaged to engage and sustain the interest of the public to participate more actively in supporting cultural initiatives. This is aimed at building a viable financial base and an infrastructure for such initiatives to thrive in Dubai.

The Emirate’s dedicated Authority for culture, heritage and art, Dubai Culture is focused on building on the city’s Arabic and Islamic character and heritage while encouraging dialogue and creativity among its 200-strong cultures. The Authority emphasises on innovative, home-grown culture, heritage and art initiatives to educate and engage the public in this fast-evolving scene.

A New Lifestyle Of Hope - Kaya Kalpa Kriya - Cure Diabetes Completely

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 08:13:00 +0000

More than 180 million people around the world has diabetes as per the World Health Organization (WHO). It is estimated that in 20 years this figure would be doubled to more than 360 million people. One person out of four is a diabetic in the UAE, as per the studies conducted by the Imperial College London Diabetes Centre (ICLDC). And it has been found that more than 50 percent of the people living with diabetes are not aware of this.

In order to increase the awareness about diabetes, a public health awareness campaign known as Diabetes Knowledge Action is being conducted and the WALK UAE 2009 is a part of this campaign which will take place at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi Yas Island on November 20th. This will also mark the World Diabetes Day which falls on the November 14th and held at the behest of the International Diabetes Federation and United Nations.

30 minutes of walking is advised for preventing the onset of the disease and also to manage diabetes. This is the basis of the WALK UAE 2009 which is hoped to generate awareness about the management of diabetes.

Although diabetes is not curable it can be controlled by injecting insulin into the body of the patient and aiding in keeping the blood glucose levels within normal levels.

It might be a coincidence that a team has arrived from India in the UAE this week who brings in a new lifestyle of hope to the people of UAE, based on the traditional wisdom of India passed on by the invaluable "Rishi" tradition, by which diabetes along with a number of other chronic diseases like arthritis, asthma, low and high blood pressure, cardiac and kidney diseases etc can be completely eliminated. This team is led by Guruji Rishi Prabhakar, an eminent scientist, engineer, environmentalist and educationist who has transformed the lives of innumerous people around the world with his new lifestyle of hope.

Guruji Rishi Prabhakar cures diabetes completely

After receiving masters in aeronautical engineering from the University of Ottawa and completing his M.B.A. from the University Of Western Ontario, Canada he turned his attention to Yoga and did years of research on the subject.

Practice session

With his scientific temperament and methodology and familiarity with the busy life of the modern man, he designed a life style program combining the practice of yoga, pranayama, meditation and food habits along with a profound understanding of the self. This lifestyle is being imparted to millions around the world through the Sidha Samadhi Yoga centers enabling those undergoing the program to live a peaceful, happy and healthy life. The program is designed in such a way that this can be practiced in spite of your busy schedule in your day to day life and this in fact has helped this program to gain immense participation and popularity, especially among the expatriate population.

Silence, peace, energy and happiness

A cancer research center and a cancer rehabilitation center has been set up along side the Rishi Samskruti Vidya Kendra in Bangalore. As per the research conducted in the cancer research center, 90 percent of cancers are completely curable, Guruji Rishi Prabhakar announced in Dubai. He was addressing the inaugural session of the 5 day "Kaya Kalpa Kriya" program, a new addition to the "Sidha Samadhi Yoga" program. He said that the program has been found successful in the complete reversal of cardiac diseases too. Lifestyle ailments and chronic diseases are also completely cured by the practice of this program. Diabetes can be cured within days of practice. Arthritis, Asthma, High and Low Blood Pressure, Kidney diseases, Ulcers etc can also be completely cured.

Healthy eating

The program is designed to increase the "Prana" which is the "life energy", found abundant in children and which reduces with age. As the Prana reduces your body becomes susceptible to diseases. By the practice of "Kaya Kalpa Kriya", this is reversed. Your body starts to store more and more life energy and after some time, diseases simply cannot remain in your body and you become disease free.

This process also brings in silence to your mind and you become peaceful and happy, another element for a happy and long life. "Kaya Kalpa Kriya", as the name suggests, essentially promises longevity and if practiced regularly, immortality.

Guruji Rishi Prabhakar is available in the UAE till November 21st. He is accessible at the Sidha Samadhi Yoga Center in Satwa, Dubai. (Tel: 04 3446618)

ഇത് മലയാളത്തില്‍ ഇവിടെ വായിക്കാം

Complete cure for diabetes, asthma, ulcers, heart and kidney diseases, high and low blood pressure, arthritis and cancer - A lifestyle of hope by Guruji Rishi Prabhakar with Kaya Kalpa Kriya and Sidha Samadhi Yoga

GEMS Education Schools to benefit from Encyclopædia Britannica Online

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 10:13:00 +0000

GEMS students in the UAE now have anytime, anywhere access to Encyclopædia Britannica Online School Edition (http://school.eb.co.uk). Through the GEMS Learning Gateway (GLG) secondary students will have access to thousands of articles, illustrations, interactive games and multimedia resources to support their learning. As students use the internet more as a primary source of information, students can simply log-on to Britannica through the GLG from anywhere accessing content which is reliable, trustworthy and safe, providing peace of mind to both teachers and parents.

GEMS Education has bought this content for schools and integrated Britannica Online to make the learning experience truly interactive by providing students with learning resources at home to complement classroom teaching. To ensure that teachers and students alike get the most from their learning platform, Britannica provides accurate reference information that can be used to meet specific learning objectives in the classroom and ultimately make learning fun.

With this content, GEMS Education has reduced time spent by teachers on creating their own resources and planning to help children develop important research and ICT skills. Teachers also benefit from using the extensive Britannica resources to enhance their lessons with movie clips, images and animations, using the site as a reliable form of reference when planning their lessons.

“Access to Britannica online school edition is definitely one of the main highlights of the GLG. Britannica is reputed for its vast repository of information making research interesting and relevant and within a safe platform. We hope this will encourage our students to get actively involved in research as a part of their studies. This is yet another innovative tool to improve the quality of education in GEMS Schools”, said Ralph Tabberer, COS, COO, GEMS MENASA

Britannica also provides on-demand Arabic translation, helping non-native English speakers with on the spot, accurate translations. Placing the mouse over a word will display the translation of the word or phrase in its current context. The translating tool goes beyond simple dictionary look-up by providing context analysis, phrase recognition and morphological support - a plural form in English is translated into the plural form in Arabic. Britannica makes sure that language does not become a barrier in the acquisition of knowledge.

Caroline Kennard, Director of Education for Encyclopædia Britannica UK, commented: “Established for 240 years, Britannica has a reputation for offering reliable and trusted information. Britannica School Edition provides the same level of accuracy for use by students and teachers in class as well as at home. Britannica Online is a fantastic source of information featuring articles, videos, pictures and games. It gives teachers, parents and carers confidence that children are using the internet safely. We are delighted to be working with GEMS Education ensuring thousands of learners and educators in the U.A.E. have access to the most current and accurate source of knowledge available to help their education.”

Bakemart awards the Best Concierge at the Hotelier Middle East Awards for 2009

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:22:00 +0000

Dubai : The evening for the Hotelier Middle East Awards 2009 saw the industry receiving its due share of claps, laurels and awards. Of a total of 19 categories to be awarded, the Concierge of the Year title was rightfully bestowed on Mr. Ashok Kuckian, Chief Concierge, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi. The title sponsor for this category was Bakemart, one of UAE's leading provider of high quality Bakery and Confectionery products.

Speaking at the awards ceremony an elated Mr TK Kaleel, Managing Director, Bakemart said, "we are immensely proud to be a part of the Hotelier Middle East Awards 2009, as a title sponsor for the 'Concierge of the Year' category. This annually hosted award ceremony is a means of appreciating talent and people who strive to make the experience of staying in a hotel a memorable one for their esteemed guests. We chose the 'Concierge of the Year' category as we believe that without them and there 'Can do' attitude is imminent to address every customer need. Service with a smile is paramount and hotel and local knowledge is essential."

Bakemart was also the official bread provider for the more than 500 elite guests from the Middle East Hospitality industry attending the awards ceremony. All tables and bread baskets contained various toasted and mouth watering fresh breads from the stable of Bakemart.

I would like to thank Bakemart for appreciating the roles and responsibilities assumed by a concierge. We in the hospitality industry aim to provide guests and visitors on all possible information which would help them have a pleasant stay in the hotel, added Mr. Ashok Kuckian, Chief Concierge, Beach Rotana Abu Dhabi.

Bakemart are the pioneers of frozen bakery products in the Middle East. The team at Bakemart works with the motto of 'Baking is a joy' by using state of the art machineries and equipments. With the creation of a comprehensive range of frozen and fresh bakery products with the finest ingredients and compliant with all health and hygiene requirements, Bakemart is an HACCP-certified company.

Bakemart products are retailed through leading supermarkets & hypermarkets across the Middle East and also exclusively under the banner of Bakemart Plus, a chain of kiosks and convenience stores all over Dubai.

Mr. Khaleel hails from a reputed family in Kerala and has been in this region for the last two decades and has business insterest in Dubai, Bahrain and Qatar.

Victorian premier cancels Mumbai visit amidst terror fears

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 05:15:00 +0000

The Victorian Premier John Brumby who is visiting India cancelled his visit to Mumbai and will stay for a longer duration in New Delhi due to the travel warnings issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs of Australia. The travel advice issued warns that terror attacks are possible in Mumbai in September or Ovtober 2009. Credible information indicates that terrorists may be planning further attacks in Mumbai, including at places frequented by tourists, in September or October 2009. We continue to receive reporting of possible threats against prominent business and tourist locations, including in Mumbai and New Delhi. Credible reporting suggests that terrorists may be planning attacks in India directed at hotels frequented by foreigners, including perceived western owned hotels. Terrorists may be planning attacks against Indian political and security interests. There is a continuing threat from terrorism throughout India and the upcoming series of major secular and religious holidays could provide terrorist groups an opportunity or pretext to stage an attack.

John Brumby is in India to promote Melbourne as a safe destination for students. The bashing of four Indian men in Melbourne has reignited simmering tensions in India. The bashings in the northern suburb of Epping, not reported by police for four days, left one man with head injuries and a cheekbone fractured in three places, another with a fractured jaw and another with broken teeth. The men were punched and kicked and beaten up with beer bottles. India's consul-general in Victoria, Anita Nayar, said the apparent racist motivation behind the attack was "worrying" and the state government needed to assess whether there was a larger problem. Gautam Gupta of the Federation of Indian Students of Australia accused police of attempting to sweep the incident under the carpet.

A.K.G memorial “four a side” football tournament in Abudhabi

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 22 Aug 2009 12:33:00 +0000

Kerala Social Center Abu Dhabi, has announced the 2nd edition of prestigious “A.K.G. memorial Ramadan “four a side” football tournament” from 4th to 6th September 2009. This is the second consecutive year that the K.S.C. is conducting this interesting annual event to commemorate comrade A.K. Gopalan, who played a vital role in transforming the socio economic scenario of our great country. A.K.G. is widely acclaimed as ‘leader of the downtrodden” and was the first opposition leader of Loksabha.

The quick and short passes, control over the ball and other techniques adopted by the players are the main features of this limited space tournament. So also, this format has attracted a big crowd in the capital city, representing a typical cross section of the expatriates last year, which was concluded in a well disciplined manner. Since we foresee more number of teams in the fray than last year, we have decided to increase the number of teams from twelve to sixteen. The teams will be will be pooled in four groups of four teams each.

KSC invites teams comprising of Indian nationals (only) to participate in this tournament from within the U.A.E. The winners will be presented with A.K.G. memorial ever rolling trophy in addition to the cash prizes for different categories. The entries should reach K.S.C. office on or before 28th August 2009 and no entries will be entertained after the cut off date.

For application forms, rules and regulations, please contact K.S.C. office on Tel. Nos. 02 6314455, 02 6314456 or 050 5312262.

Hon. Sports Secretary Mr. Kalidas added that due to the adverse tropical climate prevailing in the country, the prestigious 15th Jimmy George Ramadan Tournament is deferred to November - December 2009. The exact date and schedule will be declared in due course.

Abu Dhabi International Airport Reports a 12 Per Cent Increase In Passenger Traffic

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 08:32:00 +0000

Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) released the April 2009 traffic figures for Abu Dhabi International Airport. The figures show a 12 per cent increase in passengers travelling to, from, and through the airport compared to the same month in the previous year. Aircraft movements also increased by 5 per cent.

Conferences and exhibitions held in Abu Dhabi in April, such as Cityscape Abu Dhabi, were attributed as some of the main contributing factor to the passenger traffic increase. Other factors included the arrival of new Sudanese airline, Sun Air, with three weekly flights between Abu Dhabi and Khartoum, and Etihad Airways commencing daily flights to Melbourne, Australia.

London remained in the top position as Abu Dhabi’s busiest route, with Bangkok in second position. Doha was the third business destinations, followed by Bahrain in fourth place, making Jeddah the airport’s fifth busiest destination for the month.

Origin destination passengers increased by 13.7 per cent during the month of April.

The Indian subcontinent continued to see strong growth with competitive pricing and high volume workforce traffic.

Traffic to and from India increased by 29.2 per cent; while UK traffic increased by 15.1 per cent. Pakistan was Abu Dhabi’s third largest market for the month of April with an overall increase in traffic of 13.9 per cent. Australia continued to see strong growth becoming the airport’s ninth largest market after a traffic increase of an amazing 35.4 per cent as a result of Etihad’s new daily route into Melbourne.

In this regard, Mohammed Al Bulooki, Vice President of Airline Marketing and Aeronautical Revenue, stated: “Worldwide, April is a month where a lot of business travel increases and this is clearly reflected in the traffic figures. Also the fact that we have seen a 13.7% increase in origin destination traffic further assures us that Abu Dhabi is growing strongly as a destination”.

“We keep attracting new airlines to Abu Dhabi International Airport which is testament to the quality of services and facilities we provide, as well as the increasing interest in Abu Dhabi as a global business and tourism destination. The new third terminal at the airport has significantly increased our capacity, which means we can keep up with demand and open our doors to more airlines wishing to establish routes to Abu Dhabi in the future”, Al Bulooki concluded.

Mail volumes in April increased a phenomenal 54 per cent, still led by the increase in mail volume to the USA and Australia. Cargo movements declined by 5 per cent during the same month.

Etihad Airways invited to join IATA security committee

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 01 Aug 2009 05:29:00 +0000

Etihad Airways has become the first airline in the Middle East to join the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Working Group Committee for Security. The Abu Dhabi-based airline will be represented on the committee by Mohamed Abubaker Al Farea, Etihad Airways' vice president of corporate safety, security and quality and its foremost international expert on safety and security issues.

The security committee's ten members are selected from IATA's 230 member airlines, which together cover more than 90 per cent of all scheduled international air traffic. Appointments to the committee are made in recognition of the airlines' experience and contribution to aviation Security. The tenure of the appointment is a period of two years.

Mr Mohamed Abu baker said: "This appointment is testament to Etihad's unswerving commitment to aviation safety and security, manifested through the airline's strategies, policies and processes.

"The security group has a very important role to play in the advancement of industry-wide security standards. It is a great honour to have been selected and we look forward to playing an active role on behalf of the aviation industry."

The group is tasked with providing technical advice and working with IATA management on issues and campaigns relating to security in pursuit of safe, secure and efficient air transport. Areas of activity include:

Combating acts of unlawful interference against civil aviation

Prevention and discovery of crimes against civil aviation

Security management systems (SEMS), including quality assurance mechanisms

Regulatory policies associated with aviation security

Analysis and development of responses to potential threats to civil aviation

Etihad's appointment onto the committee follows the successful completion last year of a rigorous safety audit carried out by IATA. The Abu Dhabi-based carrier was praised after a specialist team from the respected industry body examined in detail the airline's safety procedures and processes.

The IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) seeks to ensure that airlines are compliant with its safety requirements and recommended practices. Etihad gained IOSA accreditation in 2006 also with zero findings. The audit is repeated with different standards every two years to ensure on-going compliance.

IOSA audits are mandatory for all IATA member airlines and require meeting 926 separate standards in areas including organisation and management, flight, cabin, ground and cargo operations, maintenance, flight dispatch and security.

Planet Pharmacy Aims To Be Biggest Pharmaceutical Retail Chain In The Middle East By 2012

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 19:25:00 +0000

Planet Pharmacy LLC, a Dubai-based pharmacy retailer, is set to launch 250 pharmacies across the United Arab Emirates and over 500 in Saudi Arabia by 2012, making it the largest pharmacy chain in the Middle East.

The company, which is a joint venture between Julphar and the private equity division of Global Investment House, will open pharmacies in Dubai and Abu Dhabi by December this year.

The pharmacies, to be named Health First, will be launched with the objective of growing to be the market leader in the pharmaceutical retail business across the region.

John Makepeace, Chief Executive of Planet Pharmacy, said: "Planet Pharmacy and its Health First stores have a vision of becoming the biggest and most trusted pharmacy brand in the Middle East within the next three years."

"Our goal is to deliver the highest level of care possible to our customers whilst striving to lift the overall standards of the industry across the region."

Planet Pharmacy has been running a test store in Fujeirah since the beginning of the year, with the market research gained from this outlet providing vital consumer information and feedback which will be implemented into stores across the region over the coming months. The company has already started its operations with 130 pharmacies and clinics under various names which will eventually be combined under
the Health First umbrella.

By the end of this year, up to10 Health First outlets will have launched in the UAE and also test outlets in Saudi Arabia. Planet Pharmacy's retail offer will include a mix of prescription and over the counter drugs, cosmetics and other health and hygiene products.

Stores will also provide value added services such as skin care advice, information on medicines, prescription filling services, tie-ups with insurance providers and in some cases there will be 24-hour pharmacies providing round-the-clock care.

"Our main aim to begin with will be to build trust in the communities in which we are a part of and serve," said Mr. Makepeace, who brings with him over 20 years experience in the pharmacy industry in the UK and Canada.

"We want to establish long-term relationships with our customers and create a situation where there are repeat visits from our customers who know and trust us."

"Whilst we will be providing advice and support on health issues such as Type 2 Diabetes, Asthma and nutrition, we also see ourselves quickly becoming a critical link in the chain when it comes to the local community's overall healthcare needs and requirements."

Planet Pharmacy's growth strategy will involve both acquisitions and organic growth, with the company having already identified opportunities and potential acquisition targets in GCC countries, Egypt, Lebanon, Kuwait and Jordan. The GCC however will receive priority for expansion over the next 12 months.

Inaugural Safi Airways flight arrives at Abu Dhabi International Airport

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 13:56:00 +0000

The first Safi Airways flight arrives at Abu Dhabi International Airport connecting the capital to Afghanistan twice a week. Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) is a public joint-stock company wholly owned by the Abu Dhabi Government. It was incorporated by Amiri Decree number 5, issued on 4 March 2006, to spearhead the development of the Emirate's aviation infrastructure.

In September 2006, ADAC took over responsibility for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain international Airports. In 2008, ADAC added Al Bateen private jet airport, formerly Al Bateen military airbase, and Sir Baniyas and Delma Island Airports to its portfolio. These airports all serve different segments of the marketplace and help contribute to Abu Dhabi’s development as a destination for both business and leisure tourism.

Currently under way is the large scale AED 25 (USD6.8) billion re-development and expansion of Abu Dhabi International Airport designed to increase the overall capacity of the airport to more than 20 million passengers per year. As part of this redevelopment, a second runway and a third terminal have been completed. A new ATC tower and Midfield Terminal Complex will complete the redevelopment within the next few years.

Community Development Authority, UNDP sign MoU to implement joint programme to support social initiatives

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 07:09:00 +0000

The Community Development Authority (CDA) in Dubai and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a joint programme to conduct a series of workshops aimed at strengthening social development. Her Excellency Dr Maryam Matar, Director General of the CDA, and His Excellency Dr. Khaled Alloush, UNDP Resident Representative to the UAE, signed the agreement at a special ceremony held, recently, at CDA’s headquarters.

The workshops will be on human rights; women’s rights and children’s rights, and sustainable development. Other UN organizations will be invited to participate as per the topic of the workshop, if necessary. Representatives from the government, non-governmental institutions and private sector will be invited.

“The agreement signed with UNDP comes in line with CDA’s mandate to enhance the social development in Dubai. CDA works on setting up the necessary policies and standards pertaining to social services providers,” said Dr Maryam Matar.

“Led by the directions of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, CDA seeks to cooperate with local, regional and international corporations in various fields as this will reflect positively on the lives of UAE nationals,” added Dr Matar.

Dr. Khaled Alloush said: “The MoU aims to enhance relations with the Community Development Authority in many fields, especially human rights issues. We recently organized a joint two-day workshop on children’s rights and we hope to focus on more essential issues related to the society.”

Dubai Tea Trading Centre launches new facility for global tea industry

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 20 Jun 2009 04:18:00 +0000

The Dubai Tea Trading Centre (DTTC), a division of the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), unveiled its new centralised tea storage, blending and value addition services as part of its expansion plans to accommodate the growing activities of the centre. The new facility was inaugurated by Jamal Majid Bin Thaniah; Executive Vice Chairman, DP World and Group CEO, Ports Customs World; and Salma Ali Saif Bin Hareb Chief Executive Officer - Economic Zones World. The 23,731 square metre facility in Jebel Ali Free Zone also includes office space for regional and international tea companies.

DTTC’s new facility offers services across the entire value chain of the tea industry ranging from storage, tea tasting, blending, packaging as well as networking opportunities leading to increased trade. The new facility also provides dedicated individual storage space, free storage for a limited period of time, and temperature-controlled blending and packing facilities for a wide range of teas under one roof.

“Tea is a truly global commodity – consumed among a wide array of peoples and cultures. It is fitting that Dubai, with its geographic advantage and world-class infrastructure, is perfectly placed to become an important hub for international tea trade,” said Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Executive Chairman, DMCC. “DTTC has already made significant contribution to growing the tea trade. This new facility – a one-stop solution for the tea industry - will further boost tea traded through the emirate, contributing to the ongoing diversification of the emirate’s dynamic economy.”

DTTC’s success is demonstrated by Dubai’s encouraging tea growth, which is evident from the growing tea trade. In 2008, Dubai’s total tea trade reached 148.6 million kilos, compared to 144.6 million kilos in 2007. In the same period, 5.92 million kilos of multi-origin teas were transacted through the DTTC, representing an annual growth of 15 per cent.

Sanjay Sethi, Head of the DTTC, said: “DTTC’s new facility is a milestone for the Centre as well as the global tea trade. As Dubai is neither a producer nor a significant consumer of tea, it is well positioned to offer integrated services across the tea industry. We have already seen immense interest from international tea traders to avail these new facilities. We are confident that the new Centre will attract more tea traders and boost the volumes of tea traded through Dubai,” he added.

The new Centre has the capacity to store up to 5000 metric tonnes of bulk teas at any given time. In addition, up to 2400 metric tonnes of CTC teas and leaf teas can be blended per month. DTTC’s new facility also has the capacity to pack up to 250 metric tones of tea in tea bags every month and upto 900 metric tones of loose tea in retail format per month. These comprehensive services are expected to further help boost the volume of tea traded through Dubai.

In addition to providing market infrastructure, DTTC also enables tea traders to access finance through the services of the Global Multi Commodity Receipt (GMR).

The DTTC presently stocks teas from 13 producing countries, including Kenya, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Nepal, China and Iran. In keeping with its mandate to further increase the tea trade in and through Dubai, the DTTC also facilitates sales with buyers in the GCC countries, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Pakistan, Afghanistan and the CIS countries and has plans to expand its services to other Middle East and European markets.

‘Lost keys’ open door to a fortune for lucky winner in Festival@The Dubai Mall ‘Win Millions’ raffle

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Tue, 16 Jun 2009 03:25:00 +0000

A set of lost keys opened doors to a fortune for 28-year-old Iranian expatriate Mr Kaveh Oyarhosseini, the first winner of the weekly draw at the Festival@The Dubai Mall. The weekly Saturday draws for AED 100,000 offer a bonus AED 50,000 for the winners, if they are present at the mall during the raffle draw.

Mr Oyarhosseini had waited for the daily draw results having come to the mall for a business meeting, but had left the mall before the AED 100,000 result was drawn. He was forced to return to the mall when he realised he had misplaced his apartment keys. While at the coffee shop, enquiring about the keys to the staff, the mall management called him to say his coupon had been drawn to win AED 100,000 and he had five minutes to arrive at the Star Atrium to claim the additional bonus prize of AED 50,000.

As spectators waited eagerly to watch the lucky winner, Mr Oyarhosseini came running down the stairs beaming in utter delight of winning it big. The mall visitors broke out in applause when Mr Oyarhosseini explained that he was in the mall looking for his lost keys. “They were the keys to luck,” he said.

The lucky win was extra sweet as Mr Oyarhosseini got the draw coupons after purchasing a diamond ring for his wife, Negin, from the Gold Souk of The Dubai Mall to celebrate her birthday and their wedding anniversary. “She told me that we will win, and we submitted half the coupons in her name and the rest in mine,” said the young entrepreneur who offers automation solutions for Dubai and Sharjah water and electricity authorities.

He had waited for the results of the draws twice earlier, and once even went up to the DED officials to check if he had won. “We thought we might win one of the daily raffles for AED 10,000 but this came as a total surprise,” said Mr Oyarhosseini. His wife soon joined him to celebrate the lucky win, and the couple simply couldn’t contain their joy.

The winners in the five daily draws held on Saturday were: Mohamed Khir Ramadan (Syrian national); Shikha Jamal Almurry (UAE); Mane'a Hassan (UAE), A.N Edward (UK) and Rawda Ali (UAE).

As part of the Festival@The Dubai Mall, five draws for AED 10,000 are held daily at 2pm, 4pm, 6pm, 8pm and 10pm. Every Saturday a weekly draw is held for AED 100,000 at 6:15pm with the winners standing to gain an added AED 50,000 if they are present at the mall during the draw. The grand draw will be held at the end of the festival for AED 1 million. The total prize money for the ‘Win Millions’ raffle over the 30-day festival is AED 3.1 million.

To participate in the draw, visitors to the mall only have to spend an aggregate AED 500 at any of the participating stores, including the F&B outlets, during the one-month festival period. Officials of the Dubai Department of Economic Development conduct the draw in the presence of officials from The Dubai Mall and Dubai Shopping Festival Office.

The month-long festival also features an innovative Bid 2 Win, a live auction held during the weekends; a Grand Bentley raffle with only 5,000 tickets of AED 200 each going into the draw and roaming entertainment through the mall. Visitors can also revel in the spectacular sight of The Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain, currently undergoing testing phase.

Festival@The Dubai Mall is supported by Dubai Media Inc, Arab Media Group and The Address Hotels + Resorts, the five star hotel brand of Emaar Hospitality Group.

Ministry of Economy urges economic departments to monitor market performance during Ramadan

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 13 Jun 2009 02:00:00 +0000

The Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry of Economy met representatives of various Economic Departments in the UAE to implement an integrated plan to ensure market price stability during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Dr Hashim Al Nuaimi, Director of Consumer Protection Department at the Ministry, who headed the meeting, urged the departments to exert efforts to provide acceptable prices of commodities and closely watch the market performance during the Holy Month.

Al Nuaimi asked the departments to stop any attempts at price manipulation and to encourage retail outlets to offer more basic commodities at low prices. He said that the Ministry of Economy was committed to ensuring that essential commodities are not hoarded or prices manipulated.

He asked them to create awareness on best consumer practices during Ramadan. He also recommended that retail outlets interested in offering new promotions must send an official request to the concerned Economic Department to be exempted from promotion fees.

Al Nuaimi said the economic departments can hire dedicated teams to monitor the market performance to ensure price stability during the holy month.

Retail outlets representatives welcomed the Ministry’s suggestions and praised its early efforts to create price stability.

Al Nuaimi said the Ministry will have two follow-up meetings with retail outlets to ensure that supply is smooth and prices are lowered.

Obama behind the racist attacks against Indians

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 12 Jun 2009 15:01:00 +0000

The spreading of racial attacks against Indian students from Australia to Canada has strengthened the dreaded concerns that the white supremacy secret organization, Ku Klux Klan is behind the attacks on the minority community.

In the past one month, 11 cases of such racial attacks were reported in Australia. The life of one of the students, who was attacked was in danger, the doctors said.

In the early stages, the police and the authorities refused to acknowledge that the attacks, which were called "Curry Bashing" in the local slang, were racially motivated. The authorities instead, blamed the Indian students of not conducting themselves in public places and advised them not to talk in their native languages loudly in public. This came as a big surprise from a multi ethnic community who took pride in their ethnic tolerance and preservation of ethnic identities.

An attacked Indian student's relatives protest against the racial attacks

Early in February, the police had warned Indian students not to carry publicly and display valuable articles, like laptops or iphones and demanded Indian students to show more restraint in their social activities. The Australian police were also planning to tour India and conduct training sessions in acceptable behaviour, in various Indian cities like Bangalaore, to aspiring Indian students seeking higher education in Australian educational institutions.

The white supremacy secret organization called Ku Klux Klan, whose proclaimed aim is to protect the rights of the white, endorses violence and intimidation to acheve its goals. Although formed in the United States, it has spread itself to several countries occupied by the white population. The Klan started its function by attacking the African Americans and then proceeded to target Jews, Roman Catholics, Labour Unions and other Minority Communities.

The election of an Afro American, Barack Obama, to the presidency of the United States of America, had enraged the Klan and this in turn resulted in an unprecedented rush in recruitment to the Klan in the recent months. Although the membership to the Klan is a well guarded secret, this fact was revealed to the media by a top Klansman, to emphasize the Obama effect on racism.

The recent violent racist attacks against the Asian community and especially the Indian students in Australia, followed by similar incidents in Canada, signals an emerging global phenomenon possibly perpetrated by the Ku Klux Klan.

ഇത് മലയാളത്തില്‍ ഇവിടെ വായിക്കാം

Etihad Launches Flights To Istanbul

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 03:36:00 +0000

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has launched flights to Istanbul, the commercial capital of Turkey. The inaugural flight EY097 departed from Abu Dhabi airport on schedule at 9.15am on Monday 1 June and landed in Istanbul at 12.50pm, the same day.

To mark this weekend’s Formula 1™ ING Turkish Grand Prix, and the inaugural Formula 1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix which takes place on 1 November, Etihad operated its iconic Formula 1™ liveried A320 aircraft on the maiden flight to Istanbul.

A high level Turkish delegation met the plane as it arrived at the Istanbul Ataturk airport which included UAE Ambassador to Turkey, H.E. Khalid Khalifa Al Mualla; Istanbul Ataturk airport chief, Mehmet Ali Ulutaş and Turkish Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, İsmet Yılmaz.

The group then welcomed the Etihad delegation which included Peter Baumgartner, Etihad Airways’ chief commercial officer, and Turkish Ambassador to UAE, H.E. Hakkı Akil.

Peter Baumgartner said: “We are delighted to launch flights from Abu Dhabi to Istanbul, where we have received such a warm welcome. Not only will the route provide a boost to tourism in the UAE and Turkey, but it will also support the growing commercial ties between the two countries.”

Turkey is one of the UAE’s largest trade partners, with USD $9 billion in annual bilateral trade volume generating strong economic relations and sound business opportunities for both countries.

Last year saw foreign trade figures reveal Turkey as one of the UAE’s top 10 biggest suppliers, while over the past five years (2004-2008) the UAE’s exports to Turkey have increased six-fold.

The new route has not only be welcomed by the 6,000 Turkish expatriates currently living and working in the UAE, but will also provide convenient onward connections to some of the well-established Turkish communities served by Etihad’s global network – in particular, Sydney and Melbourne.

Etihad operates a two-class Airbus A320 to Istanbul, configured to carry 140 passengers with 20 seats in business class and 120 in economy class.

Etisalat offers more than 100% extra Mobile Broadband bandwidth at significantly reduced costs

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 29 May 2009 21:49:00 +0000

In its endeavour to boost the adoption of mobile broadband in the UAE, Etisalat today announced spectacular new Wasel and postpaid mobile broadband packages offering more than 100% extra bandwidth at significantly reduced costs. Specially customised for the Mobile internet users (customers who surf the Internet through their cell phones, including iPhone) and the Mobile broadband users (customers who connect through mobile broadband devices like Notebooks/ Netbooks and 3G Data Card), these packages aim to provide convenient and flexible Internet access, anytime, anywhere to the user, as per their requirements. Etisalat has been supporting the cause of advancing mobile broadband penetration in the UAE, by providing 3G coverage to the 99% of the populated areas of the UAE.

Mobile Internet Package: Etisalat has upgraded its broadband packages and has increased the bandwidth capacity multifold, without altering the price. For e.g., mobile customers can now enjoy 10 MB instead of 2MB, 100 MB instead of 50, and 1GB instead of 120 MB, all at the same price. These packages will provide convenience and flexibility to the mobile users (including iPhone users) to surf the Internet through their cell phones and to enjoy various other applications like music and video downloads, video streaming, YouTube, facebook, online gaming, navigation, and instant messaging.

Customers can choose the package option most favourable to them, as per their usage, from various available plans.

Commenting on the new packages, Essa Al Haddad, Chief Marketing Officer, Etisalat, said," Etisalat is delighted to launch new mobile broadband packages. Like many of our pioneering initiatives, this service also reinforces our commitment to provide the best value and a variety of options for our customers to choose from. Etisalat believes that mobile broadband is the future of the internet, with the ever increasing need to 'feel connected' all the time. This need is further accentuated with the increasing proliferation Smart phones introduced by Etisalat in UAE. Etisalat will continue to add new elements and services to its mobile broadband initiative to boost its adoption in the UAE and create the best possible mobile multimedia and broadband experience for its customers."

Al Haddad also pointed Etisalat's successful completion of phase 1 of its roadmap to bring the next generation mobile broadband connectivity to the Middle East. In trials, in the UAE, the telco has recorded average download speeds of 20.37Mbps, using the HSPA+ technology.

Etisalat customers can enjoy the high speed internet access across 99% of populated areas in the UAE, through Etisalat 3.5G HSDPA technology that provides download speed up to 7.2 Mbps.

ADAC Showcases Business & Logistics Park To French Delegation

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Thu, 21 May 2009 21:39:00 +0000

Abu Dhabi Airports Company (ADAC) today welcomed a French delegation of 15 industry professionals and exhibitors from various French organizations to its stand at the Airport Show in Dubai, to share its vision for a new business and logistics park in Abu Dhabi.

The delegates were invited to view a scale model of the park, which is on display for the very first time. The park, which will occupy a 12 square kilometre site adjacent to the Abu Dhabi International Airport, will offer one stop investor-friendly services, world-class corporate amenities and a strategic location on the crossroads between East and West.

The Logistics Park is being developed in two phases. The construction of the first phase commenced in 2007 and is expected to be complete in 2010. The second phase is expected to begin in 2011 for completion in 2015.

In this regard, Mrs. Sheikha Al Maskari, Vice President of Corporate Affairs at ADAC, stated: “The Logistics Park at Abu Dhabi Airport is an intrinsic element of the overall ADAC master plan and aims at promoting diversified private sector investments into the Emirate and to generate non-aeronautical revenues”.

“The Park will offer a wide choice of facilities to meet all investors’ business needs, including light industrial units, commercial offices, and plots of land for custom development to suit the investor’s specific needs. These facilities are already attracting interest from businesses in the aviation, aerospace, MRO logistics, Freight Forwards and 3PLs sectors and Cargo and Transportation companies”, Al Maskari added.

Speaking about ADAC’s strategy for development and corporate governance, Al Maskari stated that "ADAC plays a vital role in the diversification of Abu Dhabi’s economy, as outlined in Abu Dhabi Plan 2030".

“Over the next four years, projects worth $255 billion will be delivered in the Emirate, and these projects, which include construction, tourism development, and new industries, will further drive demand and traffic to and from the Emirate. We are meeting this demand with our diversified portfolio of airport assets; Abu Dhabi International Airport, Al Ain International Airport, Al Bateen Executive Airport and Sir Bani Yas Island Airport”, Al Maskari concluded.

The Airport Show is being held at the Airport Expo Dubai from 19 - 21 May 2009. The Airport Show is one of the largest airport construction, operations, technology and services events in the world. In 2008 the event showcased 515 suppliers from 41 countries, and brought together more than 5,000 industry professionals from 81 countries, occupying over 17,000 m2 of exhibition space.

Little Beauty Queens Create Magic at the Kiddie Fashionista 2009 Grand Finale

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Fri, 15 May 2009 12:55:00 +0000

Dubai's little fashionistas charmed their audience at the Kiddie Fashionista 2009 Grand Finale held on May 14, 2009 at The Dubai Mall. Kiddie Fashionista 2009 is a combination of modeling and dance workshop activity for kids aged 6 to 11 years, grooming them into little beauty queens.

This event was conceptualized by City Vision Advertising, while GAP, the world's most iconic brand, is the title sponsor.

The four week long grooming workshop culminated into the Grand Finale where the little girls put up a fascinating performance of dance and catwalk at the Fashion Catwalk at The Dubai Mall.

Speaking of Kiddie Fashionista 2009, Kiron Nair, Director, City VisioAdvertising said, "The workshop has been very enthusiastically received by both kids and parents alike. The focus of Kiddie Fashionista 2009 was to create an environment which is fun and allows the young girls to develop a sense of confidence. The workshop also provided a platform for the girls to enjoy and explore the field of modeling, dancing and all the excitement that goes with it."

"It has been an exciting four weeks grooming the lovely girls. We really appreciate the tremendous support The Dubai Mall and GAP has provided us by helping the girls identify their talent and passion at a very young age," she further added.

The girls were selected via auditions held under the guidance of an experienced panel of judges. More than 220 kids were registered to participate in the workshop, of which 32 girls across various nationalities were selected. The comprehensive grooming workshop provided a platform for the kids to learn the nuances of catwalk, dance and modeling.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum formally opens The Dubai Mall

noreply@blogger.com (ജെ. എസ്.) — Sat, 09 May 2009 19:27:00 +0000

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today, formally opened The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination.

The highlight of the opening ceremony was the unveiling of The Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain, which performed to the melody of an Emirati song, Sama Dubai. Replicating the graceful movements of Emirati dance forms, the performance of Sama Dubai was a tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The song highlights the world-class vision and leadership qualities of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed and celebrates the success of Dubai. The performance of Sama Dubai is unparalleled in the history of fountains – a modern engineering marvel choreographed to the rhythm and beats of an Emirati song.

The spectacular opening ceremony, held by the waterfront promenade of The Dubai Mall, was attended by dignitaries and high-ranking officials, and joined by thousands of visitors to the mall, who were treated to a full showcase of the fountain’s musical performances.

Mr Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman, Emaar Properties, said that the opening ceremony, with the special performance of Sama Dubai, is Emaar’s tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. “His Highness inspired us to think bigger and better, and today, we are fulfilling his vision of growth for Dubai.”

He added: “The formal opening of the mall will continue to energise the retail and tourism sector of Dubai, and now, with the unveiling of The Dubai Fountain, we are also adding to the tourist attractions of the city.”

The Dubai Fountain will now perform daily, with the performance repertoire including Sama Dubai; Baba Yetu, an award-winning song in Swahili; the Arab world’s top-selling dance number Shik Shak Shok; and the signature piece of world-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, Con te partiro (Time to Say Goodbye).

Set on the 30-acre Burj Dubai Lake, the fountain shoots water jets as high as 500 ft (150 metres), equivalent to that of a 50-storey building. The fountain is 900 ft (275 metres) long and has five circles of varying sizes and two central arcs. It has been designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.

Over 6,600 WET Superlights – the most advanced incandescent large fountain lights available today – and 25 colour projectors create a visual spectrum of over 1,000 abstract attractions. The beam of light shining upward from the fountain can be seen from over 20 miles away, and will be visible from space making it the brightest spot in the Middle East, and quite possibly in the entire world.

Marking the revelry of the opening ceremony, the mall also organised an array of entertainment events to add to the verve of the month-long Festival@The Dubai Mall, a shopping and entertainment extravaganza.

Since its soft opening in November 2008, The Dubai Mall has welcomed several thousands of visitors, including UAE residents and tourists. Situated in close proximity to Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building, The Dubai Mall is spread over an area of 12 million sq ft. It has a gross leasable area of 3.77 million sq ft and is planned to have over 1,200 retail stores including 160 food & beverage outlets. Already, more than 900 retail outlets have opened including several flagship stores and Middle East debuts of global brands. For the convenience of visitors, the mall has 14,000 car parking spaces.

The mall’s extensive array of leisure attractions makes it one of the largest entertainment destinations in the region too. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a key attraction for families, and has over 33,000 aquatic animals. The aquarium also features the world’s largest acrylic viewing panel and a walk-through tunnel. The Olympic-sized Dubai Ice-Rink and The Waterfall, which traverses the four levels of the mall, are also popular among families.

Later this year, the mall will open the region’s first KidZania® – an innovative children’s edutainment concept; SEGA Republic – a high adrenaline indoor theme park; and the 22-screen REEL Cinema with a total capacity of 2,800 seats.

The Festival@The Dubai Mall will continue through May 29, 2009, with the retail outlets offering several bargain deals for customers. They also have the opportunity to win millions of dirhams in prizes through daily and weekly draws, and a grand draw for AED 1 million at the end of the festival. Other attractions of the Festival@The Dubai Mall include an innovative Bid 2 Win auction, Grand Bentley raffles and mall-wide entertainment. Since the beginning of the festival, the mall has hosted nearly a million shoppers, and retailers have recorded a significant increase in sales - a clear indication that consumer confidence in Dubai’s economy is on the rise.

The Dubai Mall is a centerpiece of Downtown Burj Dubai, the 500-acre mega-development by Emaar Properties, described as the new heart of the city.