KUWAIT: The heavy rains and strong winds that hit Kuwait in the past couple of days have knocked down the longest-standing tree in Kuwait Times' premises. Planted in 1983 by General Manager Badrya Darwish, the tree has provided shade and shelter and welcomed all those who entered our premises.

The tree had been a part of the newspaper's history, cut back and pruned over the years to branch out again and again. During the construction of the second building, some suggested cutting down the tree and that its roots might disrupt the underground pipes, but the owners were adamant that a living tree provides not only respite from Kuwait's relentless sun but also growth and hope for a greener future for all.