Saturday, September 29, 2012
Health Berry Ladies Gym- Mangaf
My sister came across an amazing ladies gym today. It reminds me of Pilates when it first started, brand new equipment and very clean. It opened up this month and they have a special of 60 KD for 2 months and 300 KD for the year. There are treadmills, weight equipment, a huge pool like the one in the Hilton, jacuzzi and sauna. They have spinning classes which I like, different kinds of aerobic classes and my favorite class..... ZUMBA!!!! I'm so happy I've found a Zumba class in my area. The special runs until tomorrow, I wish I knew about it before so I could have posted it sooner. The normal monthly price is 50 KD per month.
Friday, September 28, 2012
fix*us- Fix USA
One of CIK's readers ask me to post about their initiative to fix the US.
What is fix*us?
"Fix US" is a social movement to help the public realize that the voices of citizens do matter and that citizens can offer solutions to mend the open wounds of this country. The concept is to find the solutions to these problems in the places where people seem the least likely to look: within each of us.
Why we came up with this idea:
As this country gears up for the impending presidential election of 2012, citizens are recognizing the issues that will ultimately affect us and influence our voting decisions. Among those issues, some reach us on a very personal level that can't be ignored:
"Fix US" asks you how to fix the US by sharing your solutions with a broad audience of fellow citizens who are - like you - concerned, but optimistic about the possibilities for positive change. (link)
Good luck!
What is fix*us?
"Fix US" is a social movement to help the public realize that the voices of citizens do matter and that citizens can offer solutions to mend the open wounds of this country. The concept is to find the solutions to these problems in the places where people seem the least likely to look: within each of us.
Why we came up with this idea:
As this country gears up for the impending presidential election of 2012, citizens are recognizing the issues that will ultimately affect us and influence our voting decisions. Among those issues, some reach us on a very personal level that can't be ignored:
- The Economy
- Foreign Policy
- Immigration
- Health Care
- Social Issues
"Fix US" asks you how to fix the US by sharing your solutions with a broad audience of fellow citizens who are - like you - concerned, but optimistic about the possibilities for positive change. (link)
Good luck!
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Al-Amiri Hospital
I went with my husband to Amiri hospital to have his hand checked and I found the hospital very clean and no chaos compared to Adan hospital. There were signs posted on the door about no knocking and waiting your turn. It was so quiet you could here a pin drop which was amazing. There was even a coffee shop and the proceeds from the items they sell go back into the hospital for programs.
A visit to Adan hospital is like visiting a wrestling game. There are 20 people lined up at the door to get at the doctor, they even have security at the door to control the people. The x-ray room is outdated and they don't clean the equipment with alcohol when new patients come in. Everyone is yelling names and you practically have to fight to get your turn. What a difference between government hospitals, I guess it depends on which area you go to. One of CIK readers contacted me for info on Kuwait, he happened to be flying to Kuwait from John Hopkins as he was interviewing for a position here. I found this article on the MOH's effort to improve some of the government hospitals.
The Kuwait Ministry of Health (MOH)
The Kuwait Ministry of Health (MOH) is performing a system-wide restructuring of public health care delivery services. They have engaged Johns Hopkins Medicine International to raise the standards of care at four public hospitals that provide secondary care services:
- Al-Adan: 737 inpatient beds; 730,000+ outpatient visits in 2008—70 percent were emergent
- Al-Amiri: Oldest regional hospital, opened in 1949, 392-beds; 300,000+ outpatient visits per year
- Al-Jahra: Manages major community disasters (fires, major traffic accidents); 700,000+ outpatient visits per year
- Al-Farwaniya: Opened in the 1980s; recent expansion and renovations; approximately 975,000 outpatient visits in 2008
About Our Agreement
Under the agreement signed in 2011, Johns Hopkins Medicine International provides services including:
- Mentoring and training local physicians in clinical practice: protocols, procedures and techniques
- Knowledge transfer activities between local administrative and medical staff and Johns Hopkins experts in the fields of patient safety, performance innovation, health care policy, public health programs and preventive medicine
- Educational activities, including continuing medical education opportunities, conferences, congresses, case consults (teleconference and video conference) and nursing teleconferences/video conferences
- Public health needs assessments, recruitment activities and certification programs
- Assisting the Ministry of Health in assessing and meeting their information management and information technology needs
- Virtual library: consulting and technical advisory services to recommend, design and implement appropriate content management system and user interface
- Remote medical second opinion
Monday, September 24, 2012
KSA is stepping Up
JEDDAH — A proposal to impose prison sentences against men who refuse to pay alimony and child support to their ex-wives has been widely welcomed by divorcees and lawyers who represent them.
Al-Mawadda Charity Association, which is campaigning to reduce the high divorce rate in the Kingdom, has proposed the new legislation.
The proposal has been considered favorably by the Ministry of Justice, which has sent it to the higher authorities for approval. Once approved, the ministry will enforce the new law with the cooperation of security bodies.
Princess Sara Bint Musaid, the chairwoman of Al-Mawadda, told local newspapers that the proposed law will give judges the power to imprison any man who delays financial assistance or does not disclose his sources of income.
According to Khalid Abu Rashid, a Jeddah-based lawyer, imprisonment should be the last resort when a man refuses to provide financial assistance to his ex-wife.
“The imprisonment should not exceed 15 days as this will result in him losing his job. According to the law, a government employee does not lose his job if he or she stayed in prison for 15 days. In case of the private sector, 10 days is the maximum limit,” said Abu Rashid.
“The judges need to take this into account before passing sentences because if a man stays more than 15 days in prison he would risk losing his job and thus would not be able to make any payments at all,” he added.
“As soon as a man hears about the possibility of imprisonment he will become cooperative and fulfill all financial obligations because of his social image and this is what we are looking for,” said the lawyer. (link)
*This comes on the heels of KSA going after children left behind by their Saudi fathers*
The society now can contact the Ministry of Interior to take necessary actions against those who refrain from taking care of their families and children, said Tawfiq Al-Swailim, chairman of Awasir.
The society is sponsoring over 1,550 Saudi families in more than 30 countries, and 940 of them were found only this year, said Al-Swailim.
He said that Awasir is helping those families to correct their legal status by issuing them official papers.
Awasir helped some of the Saudis stranded outside the country to join ongoing scholarships, in addition to the financial aid provided by the society, according to Al-Swailim.
He said members of the society were preparing to visit five countries to closely observe the situation of Saudi families there. These countries are the Philippines, India, Jordon, Egypt and a Gulf country he didn’t specify.
Way to go KSA! Kuwait are you listening?
Al-Mawadda Charity Association, which is campaigning to reduce the high divorce rate in the Kingdom, has proposed the new legislation.
The proposal has been considered favorably by the Ministry of Justice, which has sent it to the higher authorities for approval. Once approved, the ministry will enforce the new law with the cooperation of security bodies.
Princess Sara Bint Musaid, the chairwoman of Al-Mawadda, told local newspapers that the proposed law will give judges the power to imprison any man who delays financial assistance or does not disclose his sources of income.
According to Khalid Abu Rashid, a Jeddah-based lawyer, imprisonment should be the last resort when a man refuses to provide financial assistance to his ex-wife.
“The imprisonment should not exceed 15 days as this will result in him losing his job. According to the law, a government employee does not lose his job if he or she stayed in prison for 15 days. In case of the private sector, 10 days is the maximum limit,” said Abu Rashid.
“The judges need to take this into account before passing sentences because if a man stays more than 15 days in prison he would risk losing his job and thus would not be able to make any payments at all,” he added.
“As soon as a man hears about the possibility of imprisonment he will become cooperative and fulfill all financial obligations because of his social image and this is what we are looking for,” said the lawyer. (link)
*This comes on the heels of KSA going after children left behind by their Saudi fathers*
The Ministry of Interior is trying to locate Saudis who married women and started families outside the Kingdom, then disavowed them, said the Saudi Society for the Welfare of Saudi Families Abroad (Awasir).
The society now can contact the Ministry of Interior to take necessary actions against those who refrain from taking care of their families and children, said Tawfiq Al-Swailim, chairman of Awasir.
The society is sponsoring over 1,550 Saudi families in more than 30 countries, and 940 of them were found only this year, said Al-Swailim.
He said that Awasir is helping those families to correct their legal status by issuing them official papers.
Awasir helped some of the Saudis stranded outside the country to join ongoing scholarships, in addition to the financial aid provided by the society, according to Al-Swailim.
He said members of the society were preparing to visit five countries to closely observe the situation of Saudi families there. These countries are the Philippines, India, Jordon, Egypt and a Gulf country he didn’t specify.
Way to go KSA! Kuwait are you listening?
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Maintenance in Kuwait
Haris had one of the guys open up the wall in the kitchen to fix something. This is what I have to look at now. He left a huge mess of concrete and dust everywhere and didn't try to clean it up.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Kuwaiti police officers are on the Prowl
Gone are the days of Kuwaiti police officers playing cards and sipping tea on the side of the road. They still let their friends and tribal family members go even if they committed an offense, one nose kiss and hand shake and they are on their way even if they committed a grave act, I guess that will never change. But these days the arrogant officers are on the prowl looking for expats to pick on. Expats should be warned that if they are given a written citation the officer probably added an extra offense and if you sign for it you're liable for that even if you didn't do it.
A friend of mine was not using their blinker and was going 130, they were pulled over by a young bedoo guy with bad teeth who thought he could speak English. The officer asked my friend if they drive like that in the states WTF? Like this bedoo has ever been in the US? Anyways he gave my friend a ticket and my friend signed it. Later on my friend went to pay it and was surprised to see a "running a red light" offense written on their even though the even took place off of highway 30, where's the red light? They were also cited for not cooperating, I guess the guy was pissed that my friend got off the exit and pulled over instead of on the highway. All of this is written in Arabic of course so one may try to fight it but that's a bunch of court dates and wasted time.
I got pulled over yesterday by some Mutairi guy with 2 little stars or hats or something on his shoulder. He was so cocky it was disgusting. What was even worse was that he a had a little skinny bedoo recruit with him so of course he had to use me as an example. I was a few feet away from the base exit, I almost made it but not quite. He pulled in front of me and backed up. As he came walking toward my car he saw that I was female and since he couldn't get to my window they proceeded to go to the passenger side and open up my freaking door. WTF? Luckily I had my husband on the phone and he heard me yell at the guy to shut the door.
I was aware of the officers writing extra offenses so I told my husband I didn't want to sign it as I don't read Arabic so he talked to the officer and the officer told him my offense and of course he added and extra one in there and I was pissed so I refused to sign it, well that jerk took my DL and now I will have to go to court and so on to get it back. They probably thought I was some typical American female and they felt they could just come and open up my door like nothing.
People BEWARE of the cops especially females. Lock your doors and roll down the window just enough to speak to them. My husband said I should've signed it and wrote "don't agree" beside my name so I could fight it. If you can secretly record it then I would because you never know what their intentions are and these days everyone has it out for Westerners.
Hell hath no fury like a bedoo with power!
Below are some articles about the recent complaints and actions of police officers in Kuwait:
More than 300 complaints were lodged against police officers during the first eight months of this year — up by ten percent compared to the same period last year, a local daily reported yesterday quoting sources with knowledge of official Interior Ministry statistics.
Speaking to Al-Qabas on the condition of anonymity, the sources indicated that disciplinary measures were taken against 50 officers found guilty of the accusations, including nine policemen who served jail terms for abuse of power.
And while indicating that investigations are still ongoing in some of the reported cases, the sources said that there have been cases in which complaints were shelved due to lack of evidence.
Furthermore, the sources noted that at least 1200 officers failed to report to report to work without an excuse since the beginning of 2012. (link)
Another example of Kuwait police officers doing their "job":
KUWAIT CITY, Sept 18: A 20-year-old Kuwaiti citizen and a 22-year-old Kuwaiti girl were arrested recently for indulging in immoral activities inside a vehicle in Capital Governorate. However, after the arrest, the woman revealed that the securitymen promised to settle the issue amicably if she accepted their mobile numbers and kept in touch with them.
According to security sources, two traffic officers from Capital Traffic Department were patrolling the area when they suspected a vehicle that was parked near a commercial complex. Screens were placed on the windows of the vehicle but when securitymen checked through it, they caught a woman sitting on a man’s lap at the back seat of the vehicle and kissing him.
The securitymen ordered them to come out of the vehicle and present their Civil IDs, which revealed that they are Kuwaiti citizens.
They were referred to the police station and during interrogations, they revealed that they were discussing about an earlier dispute between them at the back seat when securitymen demanded them to come out of the vehicle.
They revealed that the securitymen tried to convince the woman to take their mobile numbers if she did not want them to register case against her and the man but she had refused their demands, after which they took them to the police station.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the real circumstances behind the incident. (link)
They are out to get everyone (except their tribal relatives) so be aware and be cautious.
A friend of mine was not using their blinker and was going 130, they were pulled over by a young bedoo guy with bad teeth who thought he could speak English. The officer asked my friend if they drive like that in the states WTF? Like this bedoo has ever been in the US? Anyways he gave my friend a ticket and my friend signed it. Later on my friend went to pay it and was surprised to see a "running a red light" offense written on their even though the even took place off of highway 30, where's the red light? They were also cited for not cooperating, I guess the guy was pissed that my friend got off the exit and pulled over instead of on the highway. All of this is written in Arabic of course so one may try to fight it but that's a bunch of court dates and wasted time.
I got pulled over yesterday by some Mutairi guy with 2 little stars or hats or something on his shoulder. He was so cocky it was disgusting. What was even worse was that he a had a little skinny bedoo recruit with him so of course he had to use me as an example. I was a few feet away from the base exit, I almost made it but not quite. He pulled in front of me and backed up. As he came walking toward my car he saw that I was female and since he couldn't get to my window they proceeded to go to the passenger side and open up my freaking door. WTF? Luckily I had my husband on the phone and he heard me yell at the guy to shut the door.
I was aware of the officers writing extra offenses so I told my husband I didn't want to sign it as I don't read Arabic so he talked to the officer and the officer told him my offense and of course he added and extra one in there and I was pissed so I refused to sign it, well that jerk took my DL and now I will have to go to court and so on to get it back. They probably thought I was some typical American female and they felt they could just come and open up my door like nothing.
People BEWARE of the cops especially females. Lock your doors and roll down the window just enough to speak to them. My husband said I should've signed it and wrote "don't agree" beside my name so I could fight it. If you can secretly record it then I would because you never know what their intentions are and these days everyone has it out for Westerners.
Hell hath no fury like a bedoo with power!
Below are some articles about the recent complaints and actions of police officers in Kuwait:
More than 300 complaints were lodged against police officers during the first eight months of this year — up by ten percent compared to the same period last year, a local daily reported yesterday quoting sources with knowledge of official Interior Ministry statistics.
Speaking to Al-Qabas on the condition of anonymity, the sources indicated that disciplinary measures were taken against 50 officers found guilty of the accusations, including nine policemen who served jail terms for abuse of power.
And while indicating that investigations are still ongoing in some of the reported cases, the sources said that there have been cases in which complaints were shelved due to lack of evidence.
Furthermore, the sources noted that at least 1200 officers failed to report to report to work without an excuse since the beginning of 2012. (link)
Another example of Kuwait police officers doing their "job":
According to security sources, two traffic officers from Capital Traffic Department were patrolling the area when they suspected a vehicle that was parked near a commercial complex. Screens were placed on the windows of the vehicle but when securitymen checked through it, they caught a woman sitting on a man’s lap at the back seat of the vehicle and kissing him.
The securitymen ordered them to come out of the vehicle and present their Civil IDs, which revealed that they are Kuwaiti citizens.
They were referred to the police station and during interrogations, they revealed that they were discussing about an earlier dispute between them at the back seat when securitymen demanded them to come out of the vehicle.
They revealed that the securitymen tried to convince the woman to take their mobile numbers if she did not want them to register case against her and the man but she had refused their demands, after which they took them to the police station.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the real circumstances behind the incident. (link)
They are out to get everyone (except their tribal relatives) so be aware and be cautious.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Expect more violence as France releases cartoon mocking the Prophet (PBUH)
PARIS, Sept 19 (Reuters) - France said it would temporarily
close its embassies and schools in 20 countries on Friday after
a French magazine published cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), a
move it fears will further inflame tensions over a film mocking
the prophet.
"We have indeed decided as a precautionary measure to close
our premises, embassies, consulates, cultural centres and
schools," a Foreign Ministry spokesman said of the shut-down on
Friday, prayer day across the Muslim world. (link)
Is this publisher crazy?????????
close its embassies and schools in 20 countries on Friday after
a French magazine published cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), a
move it fears will further inflame tensions over a film mocking
the prophet.
"We have indeed decided as a precautionary measure to close
our premises, embassies, consulates, cultural centres and
schools," a Foreign Ministry spokesman said of the shut-down on
Friday, prayer day across the Muslim world. (link)
Is this publisher crazy?????????
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Anti-American Sticker
On my way home I saw this on the back of a Pajero, the guy saw me taking a picture so he sped off, I kind of chased him down because I wanted to see his face, finally I caught up with him, he was a young bedoo guy who should be driving a 1-8 with some sheep in the back, sideways 3gaal and his toes sticking out from the window.
In English it's like
P.S. If anyone should feel the need to post these types of stickers please get them in English so we can read them, and make sure you use spell check as well.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Sunday, September 16, 2012
AWARE Center- Tareq Rajab Museum Tour
AWARE Center:
Tareq Rajab Museum Tour 24 Sep 2012, 5:30 pm
This well hidden treasure houses a collection of over thirty thousand items collected over the last fifty years, of which approximately ten thousand are on permanent display.The Museum opened to the public in 1980 and has a spectacular display of ceramics, metalwork, glass, jade, costumes, textiles, jewelry, wood and stone-carvings and musical instruments. Join AWARE for a guided tour and a most memorable experience! Bus departs the AWARE Center at 5:30 pm. Advance registration required at joumana@aware.com.kw Fee: KD 4
Been there, it's a great museum, I highly recommend it!
Tareq Rajab Museum Tour 24 Sep 2012, 5:30 pm
This well hidden treasure houses a collection of over thirty thousand items collected over the last fifty years, of which approximately ten thousand are on permanent display.The Museum opened to the public in 1980 and has a spectacular display of ceramics, metalwork, glass, jade, costumes, textiles, jewelry, wood and stone-carvings and musical instruments. Join AWARE for a guided tour and a most memorable experience! Bus departs the AWARE Center at 5:30 pm. Advance registration required at joumana@aware.com.kw Fee: KD 4
Been there, it's a great museum, I highly recommend it!
Friday, September 14, 2012
Kuwaiti slaps one of our Drivers
This morning one of our American bus drivers was harassed by a Kuwaiti driver. The car was cutting the bus off then slowing down. Unfortunately the driver made the choice of pulling over to confront the Kuwaiti which led to the Kuwaiti guy slapping the US driver twice and then trying to get on the bus until he realized it was full of Americans ready to beat his @$$.
I would have pulled over behind the guy and once he got out of his car I would hit the gas and leave him in the dust, I've done this before, it's rather funny to see the look on the guy's face. But I would never ever willingly open my window for anyone, it can get dangerous that way.
I would have pulled over behind the guy and once he got out of his car I would hit the gas and leave him in the dust, I've done this before, it's rather funny to see the look on the guy's face. But I would never ever willingly open my window for anyone, it can get dangerous that way.
Hundreds of Kuwaitis stage anti-US ‘demo’ inf front of US Embassy
Hundreds of Kuwaitis stage anti-US ‘demo’
US Embassy issues warning - Lawmakers condemn film
KUWAIT CITY, Sept. 13: Hundreds of Kuwaiti citizens protested opposite Kuwait’s US Embassy Thursday evening condemning an anti-Islam amateur film on Youtube that denigrates the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Special Forces pushed back protesters away from the embassy gates with security barriers, however a small number unsuccessfully attempted to bypass the security and storm the premises.
Amidst very tight security, citizens chanted in defense of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) and called upon the US to respect Islam’s sanctities. Some carried signs, one of which stated in English ‘USA Stop the Bullshit (Respect Us),’ and flags that allegedly represent al-Qaeda. They also chanted “Obama, we are all Osama.” US citizens in Kuwait were warned by its embassy to be extra vigilant ahead of the protest.
Kuwaiti lawmakers had called for a peaceful demonstration opposite the embassy earlier on Thursday to condemn insults against Islam. Those present at the demonstration included current MPs Mohammed Hayef, Falah Al-Sawwagh, Musallam Al-Barrak and Khaled Tahous as well as former 2012 Assembly MPs Khaled Shukhayyer and Osama Al-Munawer.
Really Guys? Don't you have anything better to do with your free time? Does anyone know about the movie or is it actually a bunch of bored people looking for any reason to cause chaos?
US Embassy issues warning - Lawmakers condemn film
KUWAIT CITY, Sept. 13: Hundreds of Kuwaiti citizens protested opposite Kuwait’s US Embassy Thursday evening condemning an anti-Islam amateur film on Youtube that denigrates the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH). Special Forces pushed back protesters away from the embassy gates with security barriers, however a small number unsuccessfully attempted to bypass the security and storm the premises.
Amidst very tight security, citizens chanted in defense of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) and called upon the US to respect Islam’s sanctities. Some carried signs, one of which stated in English ‘USA Stop the Bullshit (Respect Us),’ and flags that allegedly represent al-Qaeda. They also chanted “Obama, we are all Osama.” US citizens in Kuwait were warned by its embassy to be extra vigilant ahead of the protest.
Kuwaiti lawmakers had called for a peaceful demonstration opposite the embassy earlier on Thursday to condemn insults against Islam. Those present at the demonstration included current MPs Mohammed Hayef, Falah Al-Sawwagh, Musallam Al-Barrak and Khaled Tahous as well as former 2012 Assembly MPs Khaled Shukhayyer and Osama Al-Munawer.
Really Guys? Don't you have anything better to do with your free time? Does anyone know about the movie or is it actually a bunch of bored people looking for any reason to cause chaos?
Thursday, September 13, 2012
6-month ‘visit’ visa gap to be Enforced
6-month ‘visit’ visa gap to be enforced:
KUWAIT CITY, Sept 10: The Ministry of Interior, in compliance with directives from First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior Sheikh Ahmad Al-Humoud Al-Jaber, will not issue visit visas to visitors of Kuwait until six months after their previous visit. Even though these instructions were issued few years ago, they were not being strictly implemented, reports Al-Watan Arabic daily.
Assistant Undersecretary for Nationality Affairs and Passports Major General Abdullah Al-Rashid issued a notice in this regard, which was circulated in the General Immigrations Department.
Informed sources revealed that the ministry will also limit the issuance of dependant visas after several applications from expatriate guardians were received at the ministry.
This would cut down on all of the illegals who stay in the country and get visa after visa instead of working legally. It would hurt some of the subcontracting companies who work for the US military as some of them never get their employees a visa 18 but send them to Bahrain and back every 3 months. A friend of mine said back in 2003 when things started up in Kuwait with the US military Kuwait was actually enforcing the 6 month period and most contractors would do 3 months and be sent home for 6 months. I guess Kuwait started to like the money they were getting from contracting companies but now have worn out their welcome.
KUWAIT CITY, Sept 10: The Ministry of Interior, in compliance with directives from First Deputy Premier and Minister of Interior Sheikh Ahmad Al-Humoud Al-Jaber, will not issue visit visas to visitors of Kuwait until six months after their previous visit. Even though these instructions were issued few years ago, they were not being strictly implemented, reports Al-Watan Arabic daily.
Assistant Undersecretary for Nationality Affairs and Passports Major General Abdullah Al-Rashid issued a notice in this regard, which was circulated in the General Immigrations Department.
Informed sources revealed that the ministry will also limit the issuance of dependant visas after several applications from expatriate guardians were received at the ministry.
This would cut down on all of the illegals who stay in the country and get visa after visa instead of working legally. It would hurt some of the subcontracting companies who work for the US military as some of them never get their employees a visa 18 but send them to Bahrain and back every 3 months. A friend of mine said back in 2003 when things started up in Kuwait with the US military Kuwait was actually enforcing the 6 month period and most contractors would do 3 months and be sent home for 6 months. I guess Kuwait started to like the money they were getting from contracting companies but now have worn out their welcome.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Tax information for contractors working Overseas from Taxes for Expats
New Program for Overseas American Delinquent Tax Filers
By Taxes For Expats Sunday, September 9, 2012 |
FYI for contractors working overseas:
A new IRS program for delinquent expats and dual citizens is coming into effect on September 1st, 2012. To become compliant, expats will now be required to file three years of tax returns and six years of FBARs.
Why is This Big News?
The new IRS program provides welcome relief for American expatriates who've fallen behind on their US tax filing. Unlike past programs, this program makes it clear that by filing now they will not be subject to fines or penalties. Given that most expatriates do not owe any tax and simply did not realize they still have to file US tax returns - this is really welcome news.
Who is Eligible for the New Program? The new program is aimed at Americans or dual citizens living abroad who have not been filing their US tax returns. But - it is best suited for those who IRS considers low-risk.
The IRS views returns with minimal ($1,500) tax due or no tax due to be low risk. After the taxpayer submits their documents, the IRS representative will assess whether the taxpayer can be considered low, moderate, or high risk for compliance.
Low Risk participants will be free of penalties. The less tax liability, income, assets, and complexity of the return the lower the risk it poses to the IRS. Conversely, the higher the tax liability and the more complex the return will generally lead to a higher assessment of risk.
What About Foreign Retirement Plans? The new program also will help those with certain foreign retirement plans (such as Canadian Registered Retirement Savings Plans). Existing tax treaties allow such income to be deferred with respect to US tax - but only if such election is made on a timely basis. The new program will allow taxpayers do so even if the election was not made in time.
Is the New Program Better than Previous OVDI & OVDP? The previous IRS programs had more stringent requirements - filing 8 years of tax returns and 8 years of FBARS. Those entering it also faced the prospect of paying a 27.5% penalty on highest foreign account balance. In contrast, the new program requires only 3 years of tax returns and 6 years of FBARs. Most importantly - its participants may not face any penalties.
Is THIS the time to come clean? This is a welcome development in what had been a very grey area for US expat tax filers, many of whom wished to be compliant, but had no clear guidance from the IRS itself. IRS Commissioner Doug Shulman said so much himself.
"Today we are announcing a series of common-sense steps to help U.S. citizens abroad get current with their tax obligations and resolve pension issues. The IRS is aware that some US taxpayers living abroad have failed to timely file U.S. federal income tax returns or Reports of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBARs), Form TD F 90-22.1. Some of these taxpayers have recently become aware of their filing obligations and now seek to come into compliance with the law.
The program is really good news for Americans abroad who realize that they should become compliant but fear doing so because of potential penalties and fines. Now there is a clear and simple way to achieve compliance endorsed by the IRS itself - without worry about unexpected results.
Should You Go Alone or Hire a Professional? Even though the new program is really a good news, the taxpayer should tread carefully when dealing with the IRS. One must bear in mind that the primary goal of the IRS is maximization of revenue generated for the US government.
That is why Taxes for Expats recommends that expats contact qualified expat tax professionals to discuss their situation.
If you have any questions regarding the new IRS program or need assistance joining it, Taxes for Expats have a special program. They can help you file last 3 years of tax returns and 6 years of FBARs for a flat fee of $1,200 - that's 27% less than the list price if services were purchased separately. For more information please visit http://www.taxesforexpats.com
About Taxes for Expats Taxes for Expats specializes in preparation of US expatriate taxes for Americans and dual citizens living abroad. They offer flat-fee pricing, a simple and hassle-free process, and have over 20 years of experience in the field of expat tax preparation. With clients in over 75 countries around the world, Taxes for Expats have helped hundreds of expats file their back taxes and become compliant with the IRS.
(Danger Zone Jobs)
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
FreshBerry Frozen Yogurt in Kuwait
Frozen yogurt was fresh on Carolyn Archer's mind in late 2006 when she approached David and Camille Rutkauskas about slowly working some cool, healthy desserts into the menu of their Camille's Sidewalk Cafe chain. Archer was thinking small - just a tiny piece of the couple's hugely successful enterprise. Although she is company senior vice president and Camille's sister, Archer was stunned when they decided to trademark the FreshBerry yogurt and open an entire store around it. Read Full Story
Monday, September 10, 2012
Operation Hope Yard Sale
YARD SALE!!!
It's here again!
From Household items to books, clothing to toys….! All items sold at attractive prices; with prices ranging from 0.250 fils to KD 5.
So mark your calendars, clear your schedules because we will be looking forward to seeing you!
On: 22nd September 2012
Time: 7:30am – 12pm
Place: OH premises, Rumaithiya, Block 9, Street 92, House 23.
Website: www.ohkuwait.org
Email: volunteer@ohkuwait.org
"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give " - Winston Churchill
Email: volunteer@ohkuwait.org
"We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give " - Winston Churchill
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Service at Wataniya main Branch
Wataniya main branch has moved from the old building in Sharq to another building close to Sharq Mall. I think the service was better at the old branch. There were 4 employees working when I went there and a lot of customers waiting for services. One chick pictured in the grey was doing nothing but looking at the computer, the guy working at the second desk got up and walked to the back room while the other 2 females decided to get together with the chick in grey and pass around their phone which went on for 10 minutes while 10 customers sat waiting.
This is the kind of service expected from the ministries but from public companies as well? Females really don't give a crap at all about customer service, they are the first ones to be chatting and laughing on their phones while customers stand there looking at them. When you do get their attention they usually have no idea what's going on and pass you off to someone else or tell you to come back tomorrow. Will this ever end? No wonder companies hire citizens and pay them to stay home lol
Saturday, September 8, 2012
PSY - GANGNAM STYLE (강남스타일) M/V
NewYoutube sensation, I like it, although I keep thinking he's saying "condom" style. The manager for Justin Beiber signed this guy on as well. I think the chicks need some meat on their bones lol
Friday, September 7, 2012
I miss the 90's
Back in California during the late 90's is when all of the good times started. GCC students started coming to California to study and it sure was a fun time for everyone. No one would take a second look at a guy walking around in their GCC attire. The guys were all over Corona, you would see them at the car wash, the grocery stores or driving by blaring Arabic music and wearing their A/X jeans and shirts. For those who stayed in the Riverside/Corona area there was the sheesha/restaurant "Kebob-It" and of course "Club Metro" those guys went to the English center at UCR. GCC guys were know for their fixed up sports cars, at that time I only knew about low riders and Dayton's until the GCC introduced everyone to exhaust systems, intercoolers and turbo timers.
I remember my first encounter with a turbo timer, it was on a Nissan Z, I kind of borrowed it from one of the guys and went to McDonald's. When I got back I turned off the car and took out the key and the damn thing was still running. I could not figure out what it was so I just left it on and went inside. I came to check on it later and it was off, I learned about turbo timers after that and felt like an idiot. My daughter's father had the yellow supra with the Greddy exhaust, kit, intercooler, blow off valve and off course turbo timer. We used to squish her car seat in the back seat and barely had room for the diaper bag.
I remember listening to the Khaleeji singers like Nabil, Rashed Al Majed, Mohammed Abdu, Abadi, Abdullah Ruwaished, Ahlam, Abdul Majid Abdullah, Rabeh Sager, Khaled Abdulrahman and Aseel. I had the biggest crush on Khaled Abdulrahman.
The richer guys lived in Westwood and Irvine. The Westwood guys used to visit 3rd st Promenade and Santa Monica Pier but we all used to visit the Lebanese club/restaurant "Byblos". That place used to rob GCC guys blind. They would serve them so much alcohol they would end up dunk off their butts and hand over their credit card. Our tab one time for a party of 6 was around $900.00. Then there was "Century Club" where we would all go and hang out with movie stars. It cost a fortune to get in but at that time no one cared and would blow their money on any and everything. It seemed to all change after 9/11 and everyone started leaving California. These days there are a few guys left in Long Beach but not even close to the amount back in 1997. Nothing left but memories of our youth.
Some of the cars back then
Best places to visit
Clubs we used to go to
Must haves of the late 90's
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Funny Looking Mushroom Sticker
This is a doll set bought for my daughter which came from China of course. Once I opened up the package I saw what I assume are "mushroom" stickers. They were really odd looking but it got worse once I placed the stickers on the rocker. Most mushrooms have thinner stems, I wasn't implying it resembled something else or anything (or was I?). I will leave that up to everyone else to decide what it looks like.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Grand Mosque Tour
AWARE Center:
Grand Mosque Tour 08 Sep 2012, 9:15 am
For a rewarding, spiritual and informative experience. This is a 1 ½ tour of one of Kuwait’s most famous landmarks. Ladies are required to cover - long sleeves and long ankle length skirt, otherwise the mosque will provide a cloak. If you have your own scarf you’re welcome to bring it. Camera’s allowed. Children welcome. This tour meets directly at the Grand Mosque at 9.15am. Directions to the Grand Mosque. Take Gulf Street towards the Kuwait Towers. Pass the Towers with them on your right. Pass Souq Sharq with it on your right. Pass the Dickson House and Ministry of Planning with them on your left. By Seif Palace there is a large roundabout. Take the 2nd exit off the roundabout. The Grand Mosque is now on your left. At traffic lights turn left. Grand Mosque is on your left. To park go down to the roundabout and come back so Grand Mosque is on your right. Car Parking - If you are driving you can park at the mosque. The entrance is found by taking the side road between the Al-Babtain library and the Grand Mosque. Then you will see a barrier on your left. Tell the guard you are there for a tour and he will let you in, you follow the road round and can park in front of the mosque.- AWARE Center Website
Grand Mosque Tour 08 Sep 2012, 9:15 am
For a rewarding, spiritual and informative experience. This is a 1 ½ tour of one of Kuwait’s most famous landmarks. Ladies are required to cover - long sleeves and long ankle length skirt, otherwise the mosque will provide a cloak. If you have your own scarf you’re welcome to bring it. Camera’s allowed. Children welcome. This tour meets directly at the Grand Mosque at 9.15am. Directions to the Grand Mosque. Take Gulf Street towards the Kuwait Towers. Pass the Towers with them on your right. Pass Souq Sharq with it on your right. Pass the Dickson House and Ministry of Planning with them on your left. By Seif Palace there is a large roundabout. Take the 2nd exit off the roundabout. The Grand Mosque is now on your left. At traffic lights turn left. Grand Mosque is on your left. To park go down to the roundabout and come back so Grand Mosque is on your right. Car Parking - If you are driving you can park at the mosque. The entrance is found by taking the side road between the Al-Babtain library and the Grand Mosque. Then you will see a barrier on your left. Tell the guard you are there for a tour and he will let you in, you follow the road round and can park in front of the mosque.- AWARE Center Website
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Think frozen yogurt is the healthy option? How your Pinkberry cup contains more sugar than a McDonald's McFlurry, Krispy Kreme and Wendy's Chocolate Frosty
Think frozen yogurt is the healthy option? How your Pinkberry cup contains more sugar than a McDonald's McFlurry, Krispy Kreme and Wendy's Chocolate Frosty | Mail Online:
Frozen yogurt bars are popping up all over town, but a growing number of nutritionists are warning that the dairy treat might not be as healthy as people think.Many experts highlight that while many flavours often contain less fat than traditional ice cream they are often packed with sugar to make them more palatable.When comparing Pinkberry's frozen yogurt flavours with a range of seemingly sugar-laden desserts MailOnline discovered that, per 100g, ten of Pinkberry's offerings contain as much sugar as a McDonald's McFlurry and more sugar than both an original glazed Krispy Kreme and a medium-sized Wendy's Chocolate Frosty.
Ouch! My mom thinks thinks frozen yogurt is healthy, guess not!
Frozen yogurt bars are popping up all over town, but a growing number of nutritionists are warning that the dairy treat might not be as healthy as people think.Many experts highlight that while many flavours often contain less fat than traditional ice cream they are often packed with sugar to make them more palatable.When comparing Pinkberry's frozen yogurt flavours with a range of seemingly sugar-laden desserts MailOnline discovered that, per 100g, ten of Pinkberry's offerings contain as much sugar as a McDonald's McFlurry and more sugar than both an original glazed Krispy Kreme and a medium-sized Wendy's Chocolate Frosty.
Ouch! My mom thinks thinks frozen yogurt is healthy, guess not!