James Piecowye took over Nightline in October 2006 until it was canceled in June 2018. The cast and crew of Nightline decided to keep the show going and this is where James posts the notes.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
CIMA president in conversation
The Guf Beween Us!
Mohammed's article in THE NATIONAL was the fuel of the discussion.
http://www.thenational.ae/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091020/OPINION/710199924/1080 Bridge the gulf between peoples of the Gulf Mohammed Kazim *
Last Updated: October 19. 2009 10:47PM UAE / October 19. 2009 6:47PM GMT
Driving down Sheikh Zayed Road, I could not help but notice a new flag adorning the streetlights alongside that of the UAE: the flag of Bahrain. It was there to honour the marriage of the daughter of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to the son of the King of Bahrain. Such relationships between GCC member states are not a new phenomenon, and can be traced back to a time before formal boundaries were known in the region. In fact, the intermingling of fellow “Khaleejis” occurred at many levels and for a plethora of reasons which range from maintaining peace and political stability to improving trade relationships and distribution networks. Forms of collaboration between the inhabitants of the Arabian Gulf involved business partnerships and joint ventures, political treaties, loans and credit purchases, as well as marriages. Keep in mind that all this happened at a time when travel wasn’t as simple and convenient as it is today, and communication not as developed. However, Khaleejis would still manage to congregate during travel for business, pilgrimage and education. For example, Khaleeji merchants who operated in India would frequently meet in Mumbai and Khaleeji students in Iraq or Egypt would spend time together. This level of collaboration was integral to the success of many prominent business families and for the development of society. As these businesses and political powers were passed down to newer generations and borders began to play a more important role, the maintenance of these interstate relationships slowly faded. More regulation was introduced and the movement of labour and resources was to some extent restricted. Then the discovery of oil created an entirely new lifestyle and introduced enormous wealth to the region. Every country was deeply focused on developing itself and businesses started benefiting from agency laws that restricted “foreign” institutions to using local distributors and sharing profits with them. Despite its many advantages, this system also introduced another setback for Khaleeji integration. With these indirect barriers and the sudden emergence of wealth, new mentalities also evolved. With businesses and social activities focused locally, integration gradually ceased to be the norm. Intermarriages, in many cases, were frowned upon, and inter-GCC business partnerships became anomalies. More recently, the need to diversify economically and to reinvest Khaleeji oil wealth in the region became paramount. At this point, most of the GCC countries had focused on developing the institutions required for economic activity, such as infrastructure needs, regulation and foreign direct investment. Prominent political and business figures, through the GCC, pushed for more flexibility and free movement of resources across boundaries in the region. Consequently, business entities that had initially operated in only one country found ways to expand into neighboring GCC states. Today this can be witnessed in many industries, from Emaar Properties building cities in Saudi Arabia to the Al Futtaim group operating malls in Bahrain. Although we have begun to see a revival of this Khaleeji integration recently, there has clearly been a shift in how it is perceived: witness my surprise at the Bahraini flag on the streetlights. Suddenly, the family not living on my street or the person from another tribe is considered “foreign”. Khaleejis have begun to forget the essence of what historically led to business success and made trust, loyalty and humility intrinsic elements of their personalities. As I write this in Riyadh, sitting at a table with Saudis and Qataris, I look around to note with surprise that we are the only “integrated” table. As did our grandfathers, we have also met in pursuit of education in a foreign country. However, I think to myself, why are we not bonding in the way that previous generations did? To maintain the integrity of the region and improve trade and business networks, it is incumbent upon every Khaleeji citizen to actively encourage and support integration and to fight this new perception of unfamiliarity. Although we have seen Emirati initiatives, Kuwaiti initiatives, Saudi initiatives and so on, we have yet to see true Khaleeji initiatives (which were very apparent with early merchants in the region). The recent recovery in GCC business collaboration is evident, and it should be further encouraged. The time has come for every Khaleeji to rekindle the relationships with their brethren and collaborate in every aspect of life. The GCC today is ideally set up to allow for this integration. Only when every young entrepreneur thinks on a Khaleeji scale, every Khaleeji parent supports his or her son or daughter to be part of other Khaleeji families if they choose so, and every Khaleeji country facilitates this integration, will we be able to relive what our grandfathers had and more. Only then will we benefit from the unlimited doors that will be opened through improved networks and integrated mentalities. That’s when every Khaleeji flag will be seen as a norm on our streetlights and greeted with pride rather than surprise. Let’s mingle, let’s unite, and let’s take that Khaleeji initiative. Mohammed Kazim is an Emirati health-care analyst and commentator based in Abu Dhabi
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
How to Get a Better University!
And Mr. Martin Prince, Registrar of the British University in Dubai, joined us for a discussion about how we might think about a better University.
From Dr. D'Andrea's latest book.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Improving-Teaching-Learning-Higher-Education/dp/0335210686/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1256704054&sr=1-1
Improving Teaching and Learning in Higher Education: A whole institute approach (Society for Research into Higher Education) (Paperback)
* What are the aims of higher education? * What are the strategies necessary for institutional improvement? * How might the student experience be improved? The emergence of the discourse around learning and teaching is one of the more remarkable phenomena of the last decade in higher education. Increasingly, universities are being required to pay greater attention to improving teaching and enhancing student learning. This book will help universities and colleges achieve these goals through an approach to institutional change that is well founded on both research and practical experience. By placing learning at the centre of organizational change, this book challenges many of the current assumptions about management of teaching, supporting students, the separation of research and teaching, the use of information technology and quality systems. It demonstrates how trust can be restored within higher education while advancing the need for change based on principles of equity and academic values for students and teachers alike. Improving Teaching and Learning in Higher Education is key reading for anyone interested in the development of teaching and learning in higher education, as well as policy makers.
www.palmtopalmswim.com
Why?
To bring attention to diabetes.
www.palmtopalmswim.com
050-880-3203
A 25km Ultra- marathon endurance swim in support of World Diabetes Day – The idea I had was to identify both the swim and diabetes as a massive challenge, but both are achievable with the right attitude. The event will be a FINA registered endurance event which will be held annually to mark the 14th of November as a real challenge that can be overcome. But Why? To enhance awareness of Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome in today`s society, and how it can be prevented through simple changes to your lifestyle. The concept could be used to focus the spot-light on Diabetes Awareness within Dubai, and eventually throughout the world. It offers the World Diabetes Day campaign another medium/ platform from which to leverage a far-reaching message that Diabetes can be prevented. It is a charitable event as well as being as serious as the disease itself. An iconic event to grab the world`s attention. Get Involved!
Better Arabic Education
The Carrot Principle
The Carrot Principle January 25 2007 -
In 'The Carrot Principle - How the Best Managers Use Recognition to Engage Their People, Retain Talent, and Accelerate Performance' management consultants Adrian Gostick and Chester Elton explain how organizations and managers can use praise and recognition to motivate their workforces.
The authors base their conclusions on a groundbreaking survey of 200 000 employees in North America. Results indicate that job satisfaction has never been lower. Lack of motivation and disengagement leading to increased turnover represents the most significant uncalculated expense for employers.
It is estimated that replacing a staff member can cost up to 250 per cent of the person's annual salary. Key survey findings include: * 65 per cent of respondents report that they weren't recognized at all in the preceding year * 79 percent of people leaving an organization report 'lack of appreciation' as a key reason * Of those reporting the highest morale at work, 94.4 per cent agree that their managers are effective at recognition * Organizations that effectively recognize excellence tend to be more profitable and can have more than three times the return on equity than those that do so the least. The authors suggest 125 ideas for recognizing employees drawn from interviews with managers around the world. These include: * 'On a new employee's first day, set expectations high by planning a small celebration. Then send out an email about the new person and why they were chosen to join the team.' * 'Invite an employee to take their spouse on a business trip. Pay for the spouse's airline ticket and extend the trip by one day for some sightseeing.' * 'At the beginning of each day, put three coins in your right pocket. Transfer one to the left each time you reward an employee for a behavior that is critical to your goals, your customers, your employees, and your company.' * 'How do you recognize a poor performer? Carefully. The idea is to praise even the smallest movement toward valued behavior.' * 'Personally deliver your employee's next paycheck to them. Before you hand it over, spend a few moments defining exactly what they contribute to the company. It's never the money that makes a person feel like a million bucks - it's the praise.' * Performance Management Articles * Performance Management Books Carrot Principle
Monday, October 26, 2009
Colin the Movie
www.colinmovie.com check out the trailer!
SYNOPSIS Our hero Colin is bitten by a zombie; he dies and returns as one of the undead. We follow him as he wanders through suburbia during the throes of a cadaverous apocalypse. Through his encounters with objects, places and people, we learn who Colin was and more pertinently, what he has now become. Including a broad daylight zombie versus human street battle, an epic housebound siege and bags of gore. Colin is the must see Zombie phenomenon of the year. THE FILM Already a worldwide phenomenon with huge media coverage, COLIN is the first zombie movie told from the zombie’s perspective, it is a film truly like no other. THE FILM MAKERS Written and directed by Marc Price COLIN is the first feature film for Nowhere Fast Productions. Starring Alastair Kirton in the title role, it was an attempt by the film makers to produce a low budget zombie movie that offered an original angle on the undead that would be of interest to both fans and newcomers to the genre. Without funding it was very important from the start of production to make COLIN using more enthusiasm and inventiveness than dependency on a budget to solve any problems (technical or otherwise). It was difficult trying to come up with an original idea using zombies when everything has been done so perfectly in the films of George Romero, Shaun of the Dead and even non-zombie epics such as 28 days later and Planet Terror. So Nowherefast have always considered COLIN a distant, switched at birth-disowned and adopted cousin of these films.
Pakistan Association in Dubai
A conversation with the Pakistan Association about their role in the community.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
UAE plastic bag elimination challenge!
2013 is the nation-wide phase out date!
I challenge ONE, just 1 company to say 2013 is too late we will do it, eliminate ALL our plastic bag use by March 21, 2010!
YOU HAVE BEEN CHALLENGED!
Here read it again to really get what it, change now because there is no easy way into this!
The UAE has said that by 2013 it will phase out plastic bags! Are there any really brave and truly globally aware companies in the UAE?
Prove it!
I challenge any company to phase out their non bio degradable plastic bags by March 31, 2010 and come on Nightline to tell the world! Thomas Lungrean www.theoneplanet.com is doing his part.
Georgina Hearson www.jute-couture.com is doing her part.
WHAT ABOUT You?
Kabul Wazir an ordinary guy doing the extraordinary!
050-351-9776is his Dubai mobile help him in any way you can!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
3M and your public health!
Magnus, www.shufflegazine.com, and gadgets
The Text!
2009-10-20
I spoke Michael Tatelman, Dell’s vice president of Global Consumer Sales and Marketing, and he showed some upcoming products, including the Dell Adamo XPS, out this Thursday at $2000
http://gizmodo.com/5355448/dell-adamo-xps-half-as-thick-as-air
http://www.adamobydell.com/xps/us
I figured we'll spend quite some time on du's announced iPhone 3GS plans. So far Etisalat has announced nothing about 3GS other than that it's coming in October.
(curious about the pay as you go plan)
Du is also getting more aggressive on Blackberry, you can now get the Curve 8520 for free if you're on a Business plan. Data plan is 100-175 per month.
Etisalat introduced cheaper iPhone 3G plans, down to AED99/m including 10GB data/m
GITEX is on, I've been at the Trade show part all week, not been to Shopper yet.
Western Digital TV Live HD Media Center
- http://www.wdc.com/en/products/Products.asp?DriveID=735
- Similar to the LG portable hard drive we looked at last time.
- This one doesn't have internal hard drive, you plug that in.
- Interface is smoother and cooler looking. More responsive and better looking interface than the previous generation.
- It has networking (wired and wireless), you can search and watch Youtube, for example.
- Full HD 1080p.
- Extended the types of media it supports.
LG GD910 Watch phone
- http://www.lge.com/products/model/detail/gd910.jhtml
- Think James Bond!
- A large wrist watch that is also a mobile phone
- Touch screen
- 128x160 pixel display, 1.43-inch
- Requires Bluetooth headset, no headphone jack
- 80MB memory
- 3G data connection
- video calling
- MP3 player
- speaker phone
- voice recognition, text-to-speech
- Around AED4999
Blackberry Curve 8520
- http://na.blackberry.com/eng/devices/blackberrycurve8500/
- Small, light and very slick looking
- EDGE (not 3G)
- 320 by 240 display
- 2 megapixel camera (no flash)
- Trackball's been replaced with trackpad
- media play buttons on the outside (next, prev, play/pause)
- Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
- 3.5mm standard headphone jack
- If anything like previous Curves, battery life is great
- Replaces Curve 8900 (had GPS, 3.2mp camera w autofocus, 480x360 pixel display, flash)
Ian Gilbert on where education needs to go
Children start school too young — wait till they’re 6, experts say
Monday, October 19, 2009
Dubai Flea Market
How do you create a flea market culture in the UAE?
Melanie talks to us about the dream to reality of her idea!
Life Assurance issues
Keren Bobker of Holborn Assets Insurance Brokers speaks to about life assurance and critical illness cover.
www.holbornassets.com if you have more questions!Thursday, October 15, 2009
What to do in Dubai!
Women in Leadership Forum
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Islamic Finance 101
www.amaniedubai.com
www.cimaglobal.com
Artificial Intelligence.
So Safe Water Technology
www.sosafe.com
04-887-5055
Sustainable City Project
Gender and the Media
Workplace based leadership
professor Pinnington is the dean of the faculty of business at the British University in Dubai.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
TEDxDubai's Amazing list of sponsors
TEDxDubai happened yesterday and there is no question at least one person has started to put their ideas and energy into action to change, improve, revise some aspect of their environment!
TEDxDubai could only happen with the help of sponsors and sponsors who believe that it is not money but the space and power of ideas that make magic happen!
All of the sponsors listed below did amazing things for no financial return JUST BECAUSE THEY BELIEVE IN THE POWER OF MAKING THINGS HAPPEN ONE PERSON AT A TIME.
Dubai Media City for hosting this event and providing this fabulous venue without their guidance, direction and trust none of this would be happening today, thanks you.
When we started planning TEDxDubai in late may we spoke to many people about this extraordinary idea and only a handful said YES, we want to be part of this.
We would also like to thank:
SAE for allowing Giorgio Ungania, my co-currator, to take on this project and of course their support in the filming and post production of the event
BARAKA our online partner. For making our web presence sing.
Zayed University and especifically the publications department for all things printed you are seeing today
The Kanoo Group for organizing the TEDxDubai Gala this evening.
Core Management Consultants for their unwavering business sense and guidance .imagine doing an event of this scale based all on barter deals Pervais nasir thank you.
Emirates Airlines for flying our international guests to Dubai
The Westin for housing our international guests
Ford for their support with transportation
Jebal ali Hotel for their assistance with food and beverage
The Palladium for the amazing venue that worked
Oasis Enterprises and JVC for all the HD Cameras you see recording this event
Delta Sound for the fact you can hear me
DLC for the lights they came through at the 11th hour, a dark moment
Phillips for their generous support of the idea
The One for the stage decorations and also goodies you are taking home
Arab Business Machines for the Mac’s keeping our speakers on track
Dubai Eye for facilitating Leo Laportes Broadcast to the US.
Again thank you to Dubai Media City for hosting this event and all the sponsors who have made this day happen.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
TEDIndia in conversation!
TEDIndia: The Future Beckons
Even the site of our conference is a powerful metaphor for the reshaped world of the 21st century. It's being held at the incredible high-tech campus built by Infosys to train its thousands of engineering graduates, representing the heart of the Asian outsourcing industry. We can think of no more appropriate place to gather to think about tomorrow.
Details of the speaker program will be revealed approximately 2 months prior to the conference (as is always the case with TED events), but it’s already shaping up to be an extraordinary line-up. Speakers will include India’s most promising innovators, from entrepreneurs to artists, storytellers to scientists. And about one third of the program will come from outside India. We’ll hear from celebrated global icons as well as undiscovered talent that’s due broader recognition.
Some of the questions we’re planning to tackle:
- Which local innovations are destined for global impact?
- Who are the young thinkers and doers capable of shaping the future?
- Can there be economic advancement without environmental destruction?
- Can a pluralistic democracy survive in the face of rising fundamentalism?
- Can we make money and be good? Really?
- What should we learn – or fear? -- from China’s investment in Africa?
- Do we have enough water for everyone?
- How do we keep our youth challenged and our aged healthy?
- How can anti-poverty solutions be brought to scale?
- Is there wisdom to be found in traditional medicine??
- Which other ancient traditions can illuminate modern life?
Claire Fenner www,easylivingdubai.com on a UAE Weekend
Nightline Brief for Claire Fenner - October 7th
Claire Fenner
Managing Editor & Publisher of Easy Living – The Parent’s Guide to Dubai
Dubai’s only FREE bi-monthly magazine and website for families, www.easylivingdubai.com
DUBAI
ARTE SOUK
What: The ARTE soukh for Artisans of the Emirates organised by Artisans of the Emirates, will have a wonderful variety of original and high quality products handmade by artists, crafters and designers who live here in the Emirates. Many vendors will show case their new lines, designs and creations.
When: Friday October 9th, 12noon to 7pm
Where: Times Square Centre
Contact: www.arte.ae
THE FAIR
What: ‘The Fair’ at the Dubai Ladies Club is a unique concept to bringing retailers of unique exquisite products from the region to shoppers here – most of the products can’t be found in the malls here. From tailor made crockery inspired by artists and countries, Lucknowi chiffon kurtas, Saree from a manufacturer in Lucknow, paintings at great prices, Anita dongre with her pret collection from Mumbai, jewellery from Jaipur with beautiful stones, gold and ruby, emerald bracelets, diamonds, silver.......
Where: Dubai Ladies Club
When: October 12th-14th, 10am – 9pm
Cost: Free
Contact: www.thefairdubai.com
COVENT GARDEN MARKET
What: With the cooler weather on the horizon it can only mean one thing... the return of Covent Garden Market Dubai! Each Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday thereafter until the end of April 2010 with a whole host of great new vendors and activities.
Where: The Walk, JBR
When: Wednesdays & Thursdays - 5pm to Midnight. Fridays & Saturdays - 10am to 9pm.
FRENCH CINEMA
Where: Alliance Francaise
For Kids: Disney’s Peter Pan 1 (1953). Sat Oct 10th at 10.30am (1hr 20 mins)
For Adults: Tirez sur le pianiste Director : François Truffaut (1960). Starring: Charles Aznavour, Marie Dubois, Bobby Lapointe. French version - English subtitles. Sat Oct 10th, 7pm.
Cost: FREE
THE RAT PACK
What: Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, and Frank Sinatra or THE RAT PACK as they were known, are simply legends and icons of the 20th century. They would perform at the Las Vegas Sands at night, and in between the partying and womanising they would make films such as Oceans 11 during the day.
This sensational all-new production invites the audience to once again party alongside three of the most incredible entertainers and singing talents the world has ever seen. With wonderful songs like; Fly Me To The Moon, That Old Black Magic, Amore, New York New York, Everybody Loves Somebody, Mr Bojangles along with the spontaneous humour and fantastic dancing of Sammy Davis the show is sure to be a hit.
When: October 7th to 10th
Where: First Group Theatre, Souk Madinat
Cost: Dhs175 each.
ASTRONOMICAL EXPEDITION INTO THE DESERT
What: Jupiter, the Milky Way, the desert ... Patrick Jourdin is your guide on the land and in the sky.
When: Friday 16 October Only by reservation, no later than 12/10 (Next dates : 12/12 - 23/01 - 20/03).
Cost: 50 AED* - 70 AED (free admission for children under 15 years old). * Special rate for the members and the students of the Alliance Française
Contact: ossama@afdubai.com
DUBAI DRUMS MORNING FUN
What: Introduce kids to rhythm and have lots of fun! Using drums, percussion instruments, boom-wackers and using group drumming, African rhythms, song & dance to allow children to get rhythmically empowered and gain confidence
When: Saturday October 10th onwards, 10.30-11.30am
Cost: Kids 6 and under Dhs50 per class. Mums & Dads Dhs40 each.
Contact: For further information please email info@dubaidrums.com.
MAGRUDYS CELEBRATES CHILDREN’S BOOK WEEK
What: for the first time, Magrudy’s are holding story telling sessions at their Dubai Festival City shop, in both English and Arabic. There will also be Arts and Crafts and prizes.
When: Saturday October 10th, 2-4pm
PANTOMIME AUDITIONS
What: UK based classic fairytale pantomime production Sleeping Beauty is coming to The First Group Theatre at Souk Madinat Jumeirah in December. Auditions are being held at 10am on Friday October 9th for girls and boys aged 7 to 12 and less than 5 feet tall for roles as panto babes, villagers & general ensemble. At the audition children will be required to learn and dance a simple routine set by choreographer, Louisa Allen, and may also be asked to perform a short acting piece.
This is an "OPEN" audition; children do not have to be from a dance school or theatre group.
Call-backs and a final selection will be made on the same day.
When: 10am on Friday October 9th
THE SINGING KETTLE
What: Scotland's leading children's entertainers, The Singing Kettle combine traditional children's music with fun action singalong songs. Having performed in hundreds of venues, the Singing Kettle have turned children’s theatre into an art form.
BAFTA award winning and decorated with MBE’s for services to children’s entertainment, audiences worldwide are hooked on their madcap musical adventures flavoured with playful Scottish humour.
Contact: www.singingkettle.com, www.timeouttickets.com & www.ductac.org
Where: Centrepoint Theatre @ DUCTAC
When: Oct 17th & 18th
Cost: AED80 AED
GUINNESS RECORD BREAKING EVENT HOSTED BY LULU CATY
What: The Stylish Star of The LULU CATY show is presenting a surprise Guinness Record Breaking Event at the Dubai Mall. Take the children along to be part of history and meet LULU and have their photo taken with her.
Where: Dubai Mall, Star Atrium, Lower Ground Floor, next to Patchi store
When: Saturday 10th October, Starting 4:00pm
LITTLE PASTY CHEFS FOR KIDS
What: Learn how to make, mini-brownies with pecan nuts
Cooking classes for 7-12 year olds! Come and join in the fun and learn great recipes that can be recreated at home with ease!
When: Sat Oct 10th, 4-5.30pm
Cost: Dhs150 per child
Where: L’atelier des Chefs at Le Méridien Dubai
Contact: www.atelierdeschefsdubai.com
VISIT STARGATE
What: New edutainment centre in the heart of Dubai has finally opened. Boasts an indoor/outdoor roller coaster, ice rink , karting circuit, 3D cinema, and a massive soft play area.
When: Opening times Saturday-Wednesday 10am-10pm and Thursday-Friday 10am-midnight.
Cost: Entry is FREE. Visitors buy a plastic card for AED 2 and then add credit to use the Stargate facilities.
Where: Stargate Dubai location is Zabeel Park Gate 4, entry off Sheikh Rashid Road between Zabeel Park and Karama. Good car parking. Or Dubai Metro access from Jafiliya station on the Red Line, but it's at the other side of Zabeel Park and a long walk from Gate 4 if in the midsummer heat.
COMPETITION AT ART SAWA
Seniors: Take a creative picture of the MINI COOPER designed by ZENA ASSI and win many prizes.
Juniors: Draw or Color on A5 the MINI COOPER designed by ZENA ASSI and win goody bags.
Where: Art Sawa, Al Quoz
When: Saturday 10th Oct 2009 - Thursday 15th Oct, Sat - Thu 10am - 7pm
PUBLIC LECTURE SERIES
What: An Architectural Heritage Society lecture on "Conservation Science" by Professor Luigi Campanella
Where: Ismaili Centre, Bastakiya, Bur Dubai, near the Creek
When: Wednesday, 14th Oct, 8.30pm - 10pm
RAJA A. KANAFANI AT BOUTIQUE 1 GALLERY
What: The walls of Boutique 1 Gallery are imminently due to come alive again with the introduction of Lebanese photographer Raja A. Kanafani. Raja worked as a copywriter for prestigious advertising agencies in Beirut and Doha before picking up a camera and focusing his lens on Beirut’s streets. The work exhibited at Boutique 1 Gallery this autumn features black and white prints depicting snatched moments from the Lebanese capital. Grumpy old men whose life stories are worn into the lines of their faces; lovely ladies wearing floral skirts and pretty pumps; and the military youth patrolling the city in dusty tanks: just some of the scenes that capture day-to-day reality in a city of contrasts.
When: Wednesday 7th Oct 2009 - Monday 16th Nov, Daily 10am - 11pm
Where: First Floor, Boutique 1 Store, The Walk, JBR
IMPERIAL IMPRESSIONS
What: Curated by Nalini Malhotra & Manjula Dhawan, the exhibition includes 19th and early 20th century art and Mica paintings from the Indian subcontinent.
Where: The Red Gallery, Al Wasl Road, Umm Suqeim 1
Tuesday 13th Oct - Thursday 15th Oct, Sat - Thu 10am - 7pm
ONGOING.......
GROUP OF FIVE
What: Exhibition of five young Latvian artists showcasing art in Painting, Mini textiles and Porcelain:
Andris Eglitis
Daiga Kruze
Daiga Alise Freimane
Andris Vezis
Rolands Krutovs
When: Wednesday 30 September - Wednesday 14 October 2009
Where: Location : Gallery of Light, Manu Chhabria Arts Centre @ DUCTAC
Contact: For more information call DUCTAC: 04 341 4777
EXHIBITION OF WORKS BY IRAQI ARTIST AYAD ALKHADHI
What: Iraqi born artist Ayad Alkadhi's work centers on Arabic calligraphy in stylized forms. Calligraphy in the form of caligrams is used in his paintings as trenchant commentary on the intersection of Near Eastern and Western culture, politics and religion. These creations are deeply personal and sometimes incorporate his painted image - a reflection of an artist at the crux of East and West polarities. Alkadhi has exhibited in the Middle East, New Zealand, Europe and in the U.S.
Where: Artspace Gallery, DIFC
When: Oct. 6 - 31
HOLY QURAN EXHIBITION AT THE FARJAM COLLECTION
What: More than 100 Pieces from The Farjam Collection, featuring rare Quranic manuscripts from the 3rd to the 13th century AH, the exhibition presents remarkable examples of the art of calligraphy and illumination. It provides exceptional insights into the rich religious, cultural and artistic heritage of the Islamic world. The Qurans on display at The Farjam Collection reveal a variety of ancient scripts that were employed over the centuries including: Hijazi, Kufic, Thuluth, Mohaqqaq, Naskh, and Rihani. Master calligraphers of the time, as early as the 4th century, followed strict rules of design making their artistic representation of the Holy Quran a masterpiece of illustration, graceful ornamentation and overall sophistication.
Where: Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) Gate Village
When: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 8pm; Saturday 12pm to 8pm until the end of October.
Cost: FREE
SAE PHOTOGRAPHY BOOTCAMP
What: Photography Boot Camp - The course is a comprehensive, hands on program teaching students the ins and outs of digital photography. Oct 9th & 10th.
Cost: Dhs2,100 (10% off online).
Where: SAE Institute, Knowledge Village
Contact: www.sae-dubai.com or contact Michelle Estano, 04 361 6173
ABU DHABI
ADRENALINE SPORTS LIVE
What: If someone in your family is into adventure sports or you’d like to learn more about the more extreme sporting activities available in the UAE, don’t miss the Adrenaline Sports Live event in Abu Dhabi being held from October 8th to 10th at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This action-packed family event promises to be bursting with the latest in indoor and outdoor extreme sports trends and demonstrations.
This year the festival will even be home to Abu Dhabi’s first indoor ski slope! Try the activities, talk to local sports clubs and organisations and buy the latest equipment and sports apparel. Sports include helicopter rides, wake boarding, kayaking, climbing, skateboarding and now even skiing and snowboarding so there will be something for all the family.
There will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to show off their skills at the ArabAM skateboarding championship, the Abu Dhabi National Dragon Boating festival and the Wakeboarding Championships will take place at the same time.
Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
When: October 8th to 10th (Thurs & Fri)
Cost: The ticket price is Dhs50 for adults and Dhs25 for children (under 16) which allow entry to the show plus entry to the Barbican Turbo festival for custom car and motorcycle enthusiasts. Tickets will be available from mid-August at www.boxofficeme.com or log on to www.adrenalinesportslive.com for more details
MIDDLE EAST INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
What: Festival full of screenings and award including world cinema, short films etc.
When: October 8th to 17th
Where: MEIFF ‘09 will have screenings at the following locations:
- Emirates Palace Auditorium
- Cinestar Cinemas, Marina Mall (Theaters 1-4)
- Grand Cinema, Abu Dhabi Mall (Theater 1)
Additional festival events will take place at the MEIFF Festival Tent at the Emirates Palace, on the main terrace behind the hotel. The MEIFF
Festival Tent is open to the public throughout the festival.
Cost: From Dhs20
Contact: http://www.meiff.com/program/
SHARJAH
AL QASBA LUXURY FLEA MARKET
What: you can sell and buy original used luxury brands, high end vintage, antiques, exclusive ceramics, unique arts & handcrafts!
Where: Al Qasba, Sharjah
When: Launching on October 10th. 9am – 3pm.
Cost: FREE entrance. Dhs230 per table to sell.
WEEKEND FAMILY MUSEUM WORKSHOP
What: Weekend Family Workshop on Islamic interior design: floral and geometric patterns in paintings. This programme is designed for children 6-11 and their parents/caregivers, and is held bilingually. First come first served basis so get their early!
When: Saturday October 10th, 11am.
Where: Sharjah Art Museum
Cost: FREEWednesday, October 07, 2009
land Art Generator Initiative
The Land Art Generator Initiative.
Shufflegazine.com on gadgets
www.shufflegazine.com
Show notes 2009-10-06: An alien tablet with dual displays [updated]
October 6, 2009 by Magnus Nystedt
Remember you can subscribe to http://shuffle.to/podcast to get the radio shows as a podcast in iTunes or other client.
Update: You can now download the show as MP3 file [66MB].
Alienware M15x PC gaming notebook
- http://shuffle.to/alienwarem15x
- Especially designed and built for gaming, fast graphics, fast processor, fast memory
- 15-inch display, 1600×900 pixels (can get 1920×1080)
- 512MB NVIDIA GeForce GT240M graphics (can get 1GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX260M)
- Intel Core i7 1.6GHz (can get up to 2GHz)
- DDR3 1066/1333MHz RAM
- All different kind of storage options, hard drives, solid state drives, and optical drives
- Weight just over 4kg
- Price TBA ($1500 in US, with full/top specs about $5000)
- The M17x (about $3000) will launch in Middle East at GITEX, the M15x will arrive later in the year
LG Portable Theater HXF1
- No web link
- Small device containing 500GB hard drive
- Connect it to computer, copy movies, music and photos to it
- Then connect it to TV and using remote you play all that back
- You can do same with iPods but this is more compatible and larger storage space
- AED899
Archos 7 Internet Tablet
- http://shuffle.to/archos7
- 7-inch screen, 800×480 pixels
- Touch interface
- 320GB hard drive
- Linux OS
- Wi-Fi
- Multimedia and internet on the go
- US price $320
Samsung ST550 Dual LCD compact digital camera
- http://shuffle.to/samsungst550
- 12.2 megapixels
- Nice 24-124mm lens
- 1.5-inch display facing forward, can show cartoon face on it to distract young kids
- 3-inch touch display on the back
- Tap to focus like iPhone 3GS
- “Blink Detection Mode”, “Smile Mode” , “Beauty Shot” mode
- Video 1280×720p resolution at 30 frames per second in H.264 format
- AED1299
Related posts:
A conversation with Ben Zander
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benjamin_Zander
In 1979, he became the conductor of the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, a position he still holds. Their extensive repertoire includes an emphasis on late Romantic and early 20th-century composers, especially the symphonies of Gustav Mahler, of whose work he has become a notable interpreter. With the Boston Philharmonic Orchestra, Zander has released five critically acclaimed recordings of works by Stravinsky, Beethoven, Mahler, Shostakovich and Ravel. Among the many accolades and high praise, Classic CD magazine awarded the Boston Philharmonic’s recording of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring the highest rank of all available recordings of the work, and of Mahler’s Symphony No. 6, (produced by Dominic Reeves), American Record Guide wrote: “This joins the Rattle and the two Bernstein recordings as the finest on record…All the glory to Zander and his semi-professional orchestra, for the sixth is probably Mahler’s most difficult and complex symphony…All things considered, when I reach for a recording of the sixth to play for my own pleasure, it will most likely be this one.” To celebrate the orchestra's 25th Anniversary in 2003-4, the BPO completed a nearly all-Mahler season, including a concert of Mahler's Second Symphony in Carnegie Hall.
Zander is currently (as of 2006[update]) recording a series of Beethoven and Mahler symphonies with the Philharmonia Orchestra of London for the Telarc label. Each of his recordings includes a full-length discussion disc in which he explains the music. High Fidelity magazine named his recording of Mahler's Symphony No. 6 as the best classical crossover recording of 2002. His recording of Mahler's Symphony No. 3 was awarded the 2004 Critic's Choice by the German Record Critic's Award Association, and his recording of Mahler's 9th Symphony was nominated for a Grammy Award.
On 19 July 2006 he received an Honorary Doctorate from Leeds Metropolitan University. On 17 May 2009 he received another from New England Conservatory as he conducted the Boston Philharmonic and New England Conservatory/Tufts University choirs at Symphony Hall in Boston.
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Education, are we on the right track?
Fiona Coutts and Clive Power joined me for a conversation about education in the UAE.
Paul Bennett from IDEO
Paul Bennett joined us for a conversation about design and society.
READ about IDEO and Paul Bennett's thinking, he is their chief creative officer and the managing partner of the Europe Office.And he is speaking at TEDxDubai.com
Open Conversation
IDEO has been invited to speak at TEDx in Dubai around the theme of ‘Dream. Do. Be’. It’s our intention to go to Dubai and learn rather than turn up with answers. We hope to understand the aspirations and dreams of the local population, enabling and inspiring Dubai’s citizens to co-create their city of the future. But we need your help: we are looking for thoughts and lively discussion around the following question: “What is YOUR dream for Dubai?”. [Join the discussion on Facebook.]
Monday, October 05, 2009
UAE Students on promoting culture through art.
AdWomen in the UAE
Adwomen Middle East is the first ever Women’s Marketing and Advertising platform in the region. As a not-for-profit organization, we are bringing together some of the best advertising & marketing female talent in the region to discuss work, drive innovation, inspire ideas and get to know our peers.
Apart from creating a fun professional forum for women, one of our key objectives is to also give back to the community through educational development initiatives. Plans are to establish a mentorship program that will bridge the gap between current industry leaders and female students passionate about advertising, marketing, and communications through mentorship programs.
As part of the educational initiative the group will also hold open house meetups for members and all women from the industry on a regular basis. Meetups will feature different key speakers each time around; there will be screenings of members’ work from across the region and discussions on hot new topics and popular trends affecting the industry. The essence is to keep the dialogue fun and creative, and encourage out-of-the-box thinking.
On this site, members will be showcasing work and creating original content. We will be creating message boards for members to support and provide feedback to one another. The site will also keep everyone updated on the latest industry developments and forthcoming events.
Eventually, we hope to establish professional affiliations with other industry networks throughout the region and beyond. This connection will allow our members to link with like-minded industry leaders.
We hope you join us as we revolutionize the Advertising and Marketing Communications industry for women by finally creating the kind of network we deserve.
Friday, October 02, 2009
Weekend planner with Claire Fenner
Nightline Brief for Claire Fenner - September 30th
Claire Fenner
Managing Editor Publisher of Easy Living – The Parent’s Guide to Dubai
Dubai’s only FREE bi-monthly magazine and website for families, www.easylivingdubai.com
Activities
Adrenaline Sports Live
What: If someone in your family is into adventure sports or you’d like to learn more about the more extreme sporting activities available in the UAE, don’t miss the Adrenaline Sports Live event in Abu Dhabi being held from October 8th to 10th at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This action-packed family event promises to be bursting with the latest in indoor and outdoor extreme sports trends and demonstrations.
This year the festival will even be home to Abu Dhabi’s first indoor ski slope! Try the activities, talk to local sports clubs and organisations and buy the latest equipment and sports apparel. Sports include helicopter rides, wake boarding, kayaking, climbing, skateboarding and now even skiing and snowboarding so there will be something for all the family.
There will be plenty of opportunities for visitors to show off their skills at the ArabAM skateboarding championship, the Abu Dhabi National Dragon Boating festival and the Wakeboarding Championships will take place at the same time.
Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre
When: October 8th to 10th (Thurs & Fri)
Cost: The ticket price is Dhs50 for adults and Dhs25 for children (under 16) which allow entry to the show plus entry to the Barbican Turbo festival for custom car and motorcycle enthusiasts. Tickets will be available from mid-August at www.boxofficeme.com or log on to www.adrenalinesportslive.com for more details on this much anticipated event. Or got to the 'Enter to Win' section on this website to win one of 5 family 3-day passes (2 adults and up to 3 children)!
SAE Open Day & Photography Bootcamp
What: An open day from 2-5pm for people to find out more about the various courses available at SAE (photography, media, DJing, Graphic Design Animation & more). Oct 3rd – 2-5pm open day find out more about
What: Photography Boot Camp - The course is a comprehensive, hands on program teaching students the ins and outs of digital photography. Oct 9th & 10th.
Cost: Dhs2,100 (10% off online).
Where: SAE Institute, Knowledge Village
Contact: www.sae-dubai.com or contact Michelle Estano, 04 361 6173
Pantomime Auditions
What: UK based classic fairytale pantomime production Sleeping Beauty is coming to The First Group Theatre at Souk Madinat Jumeirah in December. Auditions are being held at 10am on Friday October 9th for girls and boys aged 7 to 12 and less than 5 feet tall for roles as panto babes, villagers & general ensemble. At the audition children will be required to learn and dance a simple routine set by choreographer, Louisa Allen, and may also be asked to perform a short acting piece.
This is an "OPEN" audition, children do not have to be from a dance school or theatre group.
Call-backs and a final selection will be made on the same day.
When: 10am on Friday October 9th
Weekend Family Museum Workshop
What: Weekend Family Workshop on Floral designs in Islamic art. This programme is designed for children 6-11 and their parents/caregivers, and is held bilingually. First come first served basis so get their early!
When: Saturday October 3rd, 11am.
Where: Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Cost: FREE
Weekend Family Aquarium Workshop
What: Weekend Family Workshop on Green Sea Turtles. This programme is designed for children 5-12 and their parents/caregivers, and is held bilingually. First come first served basis so get their early!
When: Saturday October 3rd, 3pm-5pm.
Where: Sharjah Aquarium
Cost: FREE
Dubai Flea Market
What: Take your second hand goods to sell. Buy some bargains.
When: Sat Oct 3rd 8am-3pm then at Al Mamzar Park on Oct 17th
Where: Safa Park, Entrance 5
Cost: Dhs3, Al Safa & Dhs5 Al Mamzar. Dhs230 to book a table to sell.
Al Qasba Luxury Flea Market
What: you can sell and buy original used luxury brands, high end vintage, antiques, exclusive ceramics, unique arts & handcrafts!
Where: Al Qasba, Sharjah
When: launching on October 10th. 9am – 3pm.
Cost: FREE entrance. Dhs230 per table to sell.
Little Pasty Chefs for Kids
What: Learn how to make, mini-brownies with pecan nuts and Cherry Clafouti
Cooking classes for 7-12 year olds! Come and join in the fun and learn great recipes that can be recreated at home with ease!
When: Sat Oct 3rd, 4-5.30pm
Cost: Dhs150 per person
Where: L’atelier des Chefs at Le Méridien Dubai
Contact: (971) (56) 6900
Chill out at Shoreside
What: Dubai’s latest Beach Club is open in Jumeirah. Offering water sports, a restaurant and bar and childrens activities such as a bouncy castle, treasure hunts and face painting.
Where: Old Jumeirah Beach Club
When: Daily
Cost: Dhs150 weekdays and upwards. Children form Dhs100, under 4’s free.
Contact: www.shoreside.ae
Full Moon Desert Drumming
What: The full moon beckons, the djembe drum calls and the desert awaits. Grab the family and friends and join in the rhythmic excitement and energizing fun of Dubai’s drumming crowd. Meet people from all walks of life and all ages. Enjoy a night of drumming with the family, dancing with DJ Hany, desert barbecue, great weather & the marvelous ambience of playing group rhythms under the full moon.
When: Friday October 2nd, 6.30pm onwards
Cost: Dhs 175 for adults, Dhs 75 for children (5 to 13 years) and under five years free. Price includes drumming, barbecue dinner, DJ, camel rides & sand boarding.
Contact: For further information please email info@dubaidrums.com.
Dubai Dolphinarium Reopens
What: After a summer break for tank cleaning, the Dolphinarium, re-opens.
When: Thursday October 1st
Contact: www.dubaidolphinarium.ae
Games 09 (Games Alliance Middle East Show)
What: The three day event will see brand new games being showcased for the very first time in the Middle East. Gaming fans are advised to pre-register for a chance to win prizes and be the first in the region to play hugely anticipated titles including Modern Warfare 2, FIFA 2009 and Assassin's Creed 2.
When: 1st - 3rd October
When: Dubai Festival City
Breastfeeding Support Group
What: Farangis runs the Breast Feeding Support Group in Dubai via Yahoo Groups. You can join by sending an email to breastfeedingqa@yahoo.com. They have one meeting on the first Sunday of the month at Organic Cafe Greens and one meeting the last Sunday of the month at the Al Wasl Hospital.
When: Sunday October 4th, 11am.
Allergy Support Group
What: An Allergy Support group to help recognise allergy symptoms, identify causes, understand digestion, steps to diagnosis, allergy issues in children, food intolerances and treatment options. Dr Parviz Rashvand Naturopathic Doctor & Maureen Callister Kinesiologist are on a mission to help.
Where: Synergy Integrated Medical Centre, Al Wasl Rd
When: Wednesday 7th October, 7pm
Contact: 04 348 5452
Cost: FREE
Middle East International Film Festival – Abu Dhabi
What: Festival full of screenings and award including world cinema , short films etc.
When: October 8th to 17th
Where: MEIFF ‘09 will have screenings at the following locations:
- Emirates Palace Auditorium
- Cinestar Cinemas, Marina Mall (Theaters 1-4)
- Grand Cinema, Abu Dhabi Mall (Theater 1)
Additional festival events will take place at the MEIFF Festival Tent at the Emirates Palace, on the main terrace behind the hotel. The MEIFF
Festival Tent is open to the public throughout the festival.
Cost: From Dhs20
Contact: http://www.meiff.com/program/
GROUP OF FIVE
What: Exhibition of five young Latvian artists showcasing art in Painting, Mini textiles and Porcelain:
Andris Eglitis
Daiga Kruze
Daiga Alise Freimane
Andris Vezis
Rolands Krutovs
When: Wednesday 30 September - Wednesday 14 October 2009
Where: Location : Gallery of Light, Manu Chhabria Arts Centre @ DUCTAC
Contact: For more information call DUCTAC: 04 341 4777
Get Out of the Rat Race in One Year
What: Spend a FULL day with Ernesto Verdugo, Bob Urichuck, Reg Athwal, Dave Crane, Phil Bedford Islam Naieb and Ramez Helou and discover how you can generate enough passive income to pay for all your expenses FOR LIFE!
~ The Recipe for a Richer Life: The Fastest Way to Cash!
~ How to Turn Your Problems into Profits!
~ Ka-Ching Thinking: How to Fill Your Bank Account to the Brim:
~ How to take advantage of today's market!
~ How to take your Idea and turn it into reality!
~ How to create a new business!
~ And Financial Education for our Children
When: Sat 3rd of October
Where: DUCTAC
Cost: Dhs 100
Contact: http://www.
Exhibition of works by Iraqi artist Ayad Alkhadhi
What: Iraqi born artist Ayad Alkadhi's work centers on Arabic calligraphy in stylized forms. Calligraphy in the form of caligrams is used in his paintings as trenchant commentary on the intersection of Near Eastern and Western culture, politics and religion. These creations are deeply personal and sometimes incorporate his painted image - a reflection of an artist at the crux of East and West polarities. Alkadhi has exhibited in the Middle East, New Zealand, Europe and in the U.S.
Where: Artspace Gallery, DIFC
When: Oct. 6 - 31
Holy Quran Exhibition at The Farjam Collection
What: More than 100 Pieces from The Farjam Collection, featuring rare Quranic manuscripts from the 3rd to the 13th century AH, the exhibition presents remarkable examples of the art of calligraphy and illumination. It provides exceptional insights into the rich religious, cultural and artistic heritage of the Islamic world. The Qurans on display at The Farjam Collection reveal a variety of ancient scripts that were employed over the centuries including: Hijazi, Kufic, Thuluth, Mohaqqaq, Naskh, and Rihani. Master calligraphers of the time, as early as the 4th century, followed strict rules of design making their artistic representation of the Holy Quran a masterpiece of illustration, graceful ornamentation and overall sophistication.
Where: Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) Gate Village
When: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 8pm; Saturday 12pm to 8pm until the end of October.
Cost: FREE
