Saathee Charlotte December 2017 by Shukla Entertainment

saathee.com

December 2017

In this issue:

Triangle Area Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cricket Finding Mumbai in New York

December 2017 Issue # 235 Editor

Samir Shukla

(Samir@Saathee.com)

page 10 Commercial Surrogacy in India

page 18 Is China the new Climate Change Leader?

HeLLo ReadeRs!

India outlawed commercial surrogacy recently. Clinics are finding loopholes in the system. See page 10 for the story. Is China really stepping up as the world’s new climate change leader? Go to page 18 for the story and analysis. There's a lawyer in Mumbai who has inspired a massive beach cleanup in the city. Read his story on page 28. As hackers attack computer systems around the world, is it time for a cyber Peace Corps to educate the masses? Read the analysis on page 36. Test your India Knowledge and take our quiz on page 54. Catch up on the all the activities of the regional community organizations beginning on page 102. The AstroScope, our exclusive monthly horoscope is on page 136. Get daily updates about the community, local and national news, latest movie releases, analysis and videos at our website Saathee.com. We welcome all comments and suggestions.

Quote:

"Get your facts first, then you can distort them as you please." - Mark Twain

page 28 Cleaning Mumbai’s Beaches

page 86 Triangle Area Women’s Cricket

In tHIs Issue

Commercial Surrogacy . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 10 Teatime in the City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 14 China the new Climate Leader? . . . .pg. 18 Upcoming Movie Releases . . . . . . . .pg. 22 Film Clips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 26 Cleaning Up Mumbai’s Beaches . . .pg. 28 Subcontinental Divide . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 32 Cyber Peace Corps? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 36 Namaskar Y’all . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 40 Marketing Turnaround . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 44 Mastering Meaning . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 46 Personal Finances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 50 Test Your India Knowledge . . . . . . . .pg. 54 Thinking about Thinking . . . . . . . . .pg. 56 College Admissions Insider . . . . . . .pg. 60 Sangeet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 62 Nutrition for Life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 68 News Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 70 Youth Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 74 Eye on the Markets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 76 Community Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 80 Community News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 84 Community Organizations . . . . . . . .pg. 88 Spot the Differences . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 112 Pop’s Puzzles and Jokes . . . . . . . . .pg. 114 Festivals and Holidays . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 118 Puzzle Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 118 AstroScope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 120 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 122 Index of Advertisers . . . . . . . . . . . . .pg. 124

Cover: Ladakh Festival

The Ladakh festival is an annual festival organised by the J&K Tourism Department in the city of Leh. The highlight is the culture of the region, which is celebrated in an extravaganza of music, dances, sports, and handicrafts.

Photo: Dreamstime.com

Publisher & Advertising Divakar Shukla

(rakavid@aol.com)

Ad Design / Layout Nageshwar

Digital Media & Marketing

Jennifer W. Allen & Dhruv Pathak

Contributors for this issue: Kirit Shukla, Judith L. Bergman, Parul Kharod, Ahsen Jillani, Shyama Parui, Ketu Desai, Kristen Moon, Mo Vidwans, Gail Z. Martin, Balaji Prasad, Asia Sheikh and Jalendu Vaidya. All content

Opinions expressed herein are those of the writers and advertisers and not necessarily of the publisher or editor. Please contact us prior to submitting articles or photographs. Saathee is published monthly. Deadlines for advertisement, submissions and events information is 15th of the month. For a free Saathee subscription , visit saathee.com/subscription Mission: Our goal is to be a valuable source of information for the South Asian community and to be a vital advertising tool for businesses.

- Founded 1998 -

Saathee Magazine

P.O. Box 11468 Charlotte, NC 28220 704.527.7570 Fax: 704.527.7590

saatheemag@hotmail.com Saathee.com

“Bridging America and the Indian Subcontinent.”

Saathee (USPS 021-116) (ISSN: 1543-8147) is published monthly by:

Shukla Entertainment Inc. 655 Pressley Rd., Ste G, Charlotte, NC 28217 Periodicals postage paid at Charlotte, NC and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to

Saathee, P.O. Box 11468, Charlotte, NC 28220-1468

open 7 days a week for lunch & dinner

Lunch Buffet everyday Dinner A La Carte everyday

Let us cater your next function anywhere in NC or SC.

Weddings • Corporate Parties Birthdays • Anniversary Any Special Occasion

901 South Kings Drive, Suite 115 (Kings Court) Charlotte, NC

704.370.2455 or 704.370.2824 Reservations Available

Saathee.com

December 2017

India Outlawed Commercial Surrogacy – Clinics are Finding Loopholes By Sharmila Rudrappa, theconversation.com

These arguments carry weight. Countries like Canada and Australia allow only altruistic surrogacy.

Would you pay someone US$150,000 to have your baby? The high cost of surrogacy in the U.S. has pushed many potential parents to seek cheaper options elsewhere. Countries like India and Thailand have attracted surrogacy clients from countries like the U.S., Britain, Australia and Israel. The global surrogacy trade, however, has been fraught with scandals. In India, where I’ve studied surrogacy since 2008, the government is rethinking regulations. Gay couples were banned from using commercial surrogacy in 2012. In March 2017, the Indian government extended the commercial ban to everyone. Now, only so-called “altruistic surrogacy” is allowed – when a consenting female family member bears a child for a childless heterosexual Indian couple without pay. But what impact are bans on commercial surrogacy having for women who work in the reproductive industry?

downsides of commercial surrogacy Some bioethicists and feminists have welcomed bans on commercial surrogacy. They argue that it’s unethical to build businesses on women’s reproductive capacities. Surrogacy businesses in India almost exclusively focused on the needs of the client. Destinations such as India became popular precisely because they offered surrogacy at bargain basement prices by paying surrogate mothers less. They offered preterm childbirth through cesarean surgeries in order to accommodate clients’ availability to take time off from work. They created barriers between surrogate mothers and clients to minimize the emotional costs for clients. This allowed clients to leave India with their babies – no strings attached. Many bioethicists believe that selling pregnancy as a service is untenable because it puts a price on human body parts and life. Commercial surrogacy, they note, results in the devaluation of women and children and the eventual degradation of society. Thus, removing cash payment for surrogacy and instead endorsing it as an altruistic, gift-like exchange between transactors is seen as more ethical. Saathee.com

downsides of bans Like other countries that provide commercial surrogacy, there were no legal requirements in India to provide statistics on how many clinics provided surrogacy services, the number of clients or women employed. What we do know is that the ban has slowed a brisk global trade in Indian working-class women’s reproductive capacities that is estimated to have garnered anywhere from $400 million to $1 billion per year. The baby trade, however, does not stop with bans on commercial surrogacy. Instead, infertility clinics jump through legal loopholes by moving surrogate mothers across borders. These movements expose surrogate mothers to great risks. For example, when India ﬁrst banned surrogacy for gay couples in 2012, various infertility businesses in Delhi continued to sign on gay clients from all over the world. Clients shipped their frozen sperm to Delhi, which was used to fertilize eggs from Indian donors. The resulting embryos, legally belonging to the gay men, were implanted into Indian surrogate mothers. To avoid the ban, infertility clinics then moved surrogate mothers across international borders into Nepal. There, they gave birth and clients arrived to pick up their children. This emerging trade route between Delhi and Kathmandu halted when an earthquake hit Nepal on April 25, 2015, killing 8,000 people and injuring more than 21,000. While various governments airlifted babies belonging to their citizens, the fate of the Indian mothers and how they got back home remains unclear. I learned more about this type of workaround in conversations with a Mumbai-based infertility specialist in September 2015. The specialist, who will remain anonymous to protect conﬁdentiality, revealed that he was recruiting surrogate mothers from Kenya to come to Mumbai. Through in vitro fertilization, he implanted the Kenyan women with continued on page 82

December 2017

Trusted Quality, Professional Service & Best Prices In The Triangle 22k Gold, Diamond, Gemstone & New Antique Gold Jewelry Astrological Stones Available

New Location Next to Patel Brothers

WE BUY

GOLD

We Wish You a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year

Khanna & Sons Jewelers “Redefining the Beauty of Diamonds”

810 E. Chatham Street, Suite 101, Cary, NC 27511 In NEW Patel Plaza!

Tuesday - Sunday 12 to 8 (Closed on Monday)

B: (919) 388-3838, C: (704) 770-5397, E-mail: khannasonsjewelers@gmail.com

International Community Church A WORSHIP CENTER FOR PEOPLE FROM INDIA AND NEIGHBORING COUNTRIES

We Welcome you to Become a Part of this Loving spiritual Family “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 (The Holy Bible)

Pastor: Joseph B. Jesudason

Christmas Morning Service

Wishing You a Very Merry Christmas!

Watch Night Service

Dec 25, 2017 (10:30 am) Dec 31, 2017 (10 pm) Regular activities

Worship service - sundays at 8:30 aM Child Care Available 1524, north Harrison avenue, Cary (next to sas Campus)

Children’s sunday school & adult Bible study - sundays at 11 aM 1215 Jones Franklin Rd Suite 204 Prayer Fellowship - Wednesdays at 7:00 PM Meet at Four Zones at host families Raleigh, Durham, Apex, Cary, Morrisville, Holly Springs & Chapel Hill

seRvIng god and tHe CoMMunIty sInCe June 1984

Zakar Bible Club: Character development of children through memorization of God’s powerful & redemptive word.

Please send your child and receive guaranteed life lasting blessing.

Church oﬃce: 1215 Jones Franklin Road, suite 204 Raleigh, nC 27606 (919) 233-2900 or (919) 467-4435 (Residence) www.icc-nc.org

We welcome you to come and receive a blessing through this evangelical, Christ-centered, Bible-based, non-denominational, loving, caring, mission-minded spiritual family church.

Saathee.com

December 2017

TEATIME IN THE CITY Notes from the Editor’s Desk By Samir Shukla

sometimes so relentlessly seek, is right inside of us. It has always been – a part of the universal journey that is as old as time itself. Shivoham – The Quest is a musical journey of my own journey.” The culmination of reﬂecting, writing, composing, and experimenting, including during workshops in her house and during recording sessions, results in a lovely piece of work.

The potential for music to evoke peace in human hearts is timeless. These recordings present convergences of disparate musical genres and voices in their own manner. Musical conversations can help inspire much needed convergence and conversation in our divided world. Chandrika tandon Shivoham – The Quest (Soul Chants Music)

Chandrika Tandon is a seeker of the deeper meaning of existence and commonality of human connections. Music informs her journey. She is an accomplished business woman, but seeks something more as a vocalist and composer. Shivoham – The Quest is her fourth recording and a continuation of her journey of seeking. The three-disc set begins with an overture and consists of three movements – “Yearning,” “Searching,” and “Connecting.” The essence of this recording is her serene voice draped over spiritual music. Tandon grew up in Chennai, but it’s her world travels that affect her multi-hued music. This collection is ambitious to say the least. She chants timeless Sanskrit slokas and spiritual hymns stitched with numerous musical genres, including traditional Indian classical music, Irish reels, western classical and jazz intermingled with English lyrics. It’s a blend of Indian and Western music with a decidedly Indian backdrop. Recorded at multiple studios in four countries over a period of over two years, including the legendary Abbey Road studio in London, she worked with Indian musicians, the London Metropolitan Orchestra, the Soweto Gospel Choir, London Voices, Kings singers and western soloists. It takes adventurous ears to appreciate the Sanskrit slokas intermingling with western choral singers. Gregorian chants, South African gospel singers, Indian ragas, and English folk music are all at home here. The English lyrics are quite simple, but that’s the point, as the words enhance, not clash with slokas, mantras, and gospel music. It’s essentially a spiritual recording, where the music can be haunting, meditative, and exotic. Multiple listening sessions are required for the experience to fully sink in, as some cuts initially seem a bit incongruent, but they subtly merge in an eclectic manner. An array of musicians, including Indian and Western percussionists, guitarists, accordion, flute, sitar, and several other instruments contribute to the sound. There are many pieces that create a meditative trance. Tandon composed and produced Shivoham – The Quest describing her own journey which she sees as “a universal journey; of seeking the light, yearning for it; searching for it and finding moments of connection to it.” She writes in the liner notes, “We spend a lifetime searching for love, peace, happiness, success – yet the light we Saathee.com

saﬀron ensemble Will You (Tames Records)

Ours is a rapidly shrinking world. Cultures, ethnicities, foods, travel, and myriad languages are intermingling as never before in human history. This, of course, also has an effect on the most universal language of all, music. The recording Will You is a subtle exploration of Hindustani music with a touch of jazz performed by multiple-genre musicians. The Iranian-American vocalist Katayoun Goudarzi sings and speaks works of 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet Rumi while the Saffron Ensemble, sitar player Shujaat Khan, saxophonist Tim Ries, pianist Kevin Hays, and tabla player Dibyarka Chatterjee, envelope her voice in surreal sounds. Together, they have created new musical backdrops for the poet’s words. She sings the words in a manner that connects with listeners, even those who don’t know Persian. I wonder if she had spoken the words of each song in English prior to the ensuing track, sort of a prelude, the words would relate more to a non-native speaker, elevated further by the music. But I understand that much is lost in translation, so maybe just imagining what the words mean, and she does a wonderful job emoting them, along with the superb music, the meaning just seeps into the psyche. The friendship and camaraderie of this singer and musicians are clear in the natural aura of the recordings where many voices walk together. Rumi is among the most influential Sufi poets, his works now translated across the globe. The Saffron Ensemble and Goudarzi have made a sublime and hypnotic recording that will inspire listeners to find the poet’s work and read it. I know I’m among those looking to further read his works. In a sense, I have a readymade soundtrack in this recording.

Samir Shukla

is the editor of Saathee magazine. contact - samir@Saathee.com

December 2017

Decorate Your Home Like a Palace with Furniture You Have Never Seen Before! • One of a Kind Designer Furniture • Custom Indian Furniture • Chandeliers - Free Installation • Custom Draperies • Indian all Wool & Cashmere Silk Rugs • Free Delivery • Anywhere in the U.S. • No Installation Fees • No Designer Fees - Free Quotes • Room by Room Layouts

12 Months Same as Cash!

Call Shyam Garg 478-361-5558 or Lynn Gunter 770-584-9094 (Inside Global Mall) 5675 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Ste 102 & 103, Norcross, GA 30071 Show Room Hours: Open 7 Days -12:00 pm to 8:00 pm • Tel: 770-209-8999 • Tollfree: 1800-567-5686 e-mail: shyamgarg@sonalimports.com • www.thesonalfurniture.com • www.sonalimports.com

Saathee.com

December 2017

climate leader?

Is China Really Stepping

Up As the World’s New

By Carolyn Beeler, PRI’s The World

In October, Chinese President Xi Jinping made a bold statement in publically positioning his country as the next global leader in combatting climate change. “Taking a driving seat in international cooperation to respond to climate change,” Xi said at the 19th Chinese Communist Party Congress last month. “China has become an important participant, contributor, and torch-bearer in the global endeavor for ecological civilization.” China and the US acted together two years ago to pave the way for a successful Paris agreement. Now, under President Donald Trump, the US is backing away from that agreement and China sees an opportunity to lay claim to the process and carve out space for itself as a diplomatic leader. After months of affirming its commitment to cutting carbon, Xi’s phrase “taking a driving seat” removed any doubt that the country is positioning itself not just as a willing participant, but as a leader in global climate action. “It shows that China’s top leaders place fighting climate change, and working with other countries to do so, as a key international goal,” said Alvin Lin, with the Natural Resources Defense Council’s China office. He called Xi’s statement “very important.”

in renewable energy, spending about a billion dollars a year on clean energy. This shift from coal to renewables at home is partly in response to pressures from Chinese citizens, who are increasingly worried about their smog-choked cities. “If you look at Chinese society, they’re going through what we had in the ‘60s and ‘70s,” said David Rank, a former acting US ambassador to China. “Chinese political consciousness is evolving really around the environmental impacts that rapid development has had in China,” Rank said. “There is signiﬁcant pressure within the Chinese system for movement on both traditional pollutants and on carbon.” The domestic energy shifts in China that are driven by these environmental concerns, and the race to cash in on renewable energy technologies, lend considerable weight to Xi’s claims that China is in the “driving seat” when it comes to combatting climate change. But abroad, the story is diﬀerent.

China ‘exporting its pollution’ “China is in many respects simply exporting its pollution,” said Elizabeth Economy, director for Asia studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. She’s talking about China’s massive “Belt and Road” initiative, a nearly trillion-dollar infrastructure investment plan that includes almost 70 countries. domestic policies support Xi’s claims “[China] is on track to export as many as 100 coal-fired China appears well ahead of its Paris agreement target of power plants,” Economy said. “There’s also going to be plans to hitting peak carbon emissions by 2030. export steel capacity and cement production and many other And even though it still burns more coal than any other country, polluting industries.” Part of China’s commitment to addressing it’s working to wean itself off the dirty fuel. China canceled plans for climate change, Economy said, must be a commitment to “green” more than 100 new coal-fired power plants this year. the Belt and Road. “The country is certainly living up to President Xi’s words domestically,” said Andrew Light, a former US climate Climate experts focusing attention on germany, not China negotiator and fellow at the World Resources Institute, “in terms Climate change and the environment aren’t expected to of their ambitious efforts to reduce their own emissions, to clean feature, at least publically, in Trump and Xi’s talks during their up their own air, and to really lead the way on addressing this meetings in China this week. problem.” continued on page 110 China is also leading the way as the world’s largest investor Saathee.com

December 2017

The importance of education today is undeniable. Are you prepared for what it costs? It takes planning to fund the cost of an education considering that between 2006-07 and 2016-17, published in-state tuition and fees at public four-year institutions increased at an average rate of 3.5% per year beyond inflation1. While tuition will be the largest expense, don't forget about these additional costs that may be incurred: Pre-College Costs • Standardized test fees • Test prep courses and materials • Campus visits • Moving costs Additional College Costs • Room & Board • Books & Supplies 1 College Board (Trends in Higher Education) 2017 • Transportation

Talk it through with an expert. We’re Here to help.

Rasheed Ulhaq Dedicated Agent Phone: 704-709-7520 Cell: 310-418-0816 rulhaq@ft.newyorklife.com New York Life Insurance Company 6100 Fairview Road Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28210 1729183 EXP: 3/10/2019

2 GREAT LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU!

Delivery : GrubHub, DoorDash, Doorstep , Postmates, & Eat24

Daily Lunch Buffet 11:30 am - 3 pm Mon, Wed, Thurs Special Lunch Buffet Fri, Sat & Sun 11:30 am - 3 pm Catering For all occasions Daily Dinner 4:30 pm - 9:30 pm try Zafran for Mouth-Watering (Pineville) Pakistani, Indian & Persian Kabab! 4:30 pm - 10 pm (Harrisburg) Help Wanted: Desi Chef, Server & Singer

Halal Meat / non-veg & vegetarian dishes

Top Rated Restaurant on Yelp 2016

y Happ ys! a Holid 100% Authentic Pakistani-Indian Cuisine Family Friendly Atmosphere

www.zafrankababpalace.com

For Catering please call Mr. Khan (Business Owner) 704-904-4730 or 704-889-5155

212 N. Polk St., Suite 101 PINEVILLE, NC 28134 704-889-5155

4250 Main St. Suite 100 HARRISBURG, NC 28075 980-258-0651

(Two blocks from India Grocers. Half mile from Patel Brothers) Closed Tuesdays

(3 miles from Concord Mills Mall & 4 miles from UNCC) Closed Mondays

Saathee.com

December 2017

Bala Sure Broker / Realtor, NC & SC

704-957-3265 Buying & Selling: Residential, Investment Properties & Commercial

EXPERIENCE COMMITMENT PROMPT SERVICE

FULL GUIDANCE BEST NEGOTIATION CREDIT FOR CLOSING COSTS

Home Buyer Rebate up to 2%, upon Lender approval

www.BalaSure.Realtor

Chess for All Ages Open to all ages and skill levels. Welcome beginners and casual players. Register Now For Classes & Camps

Charlotte Chess Center offers: Casual Play Classes Camps Tournaments After School Programs

Saathee Discount: 10% off First Camp or Class Use coupon code Saathee. Exp 1/5/18

980-265-1156 www.CharlotteChessCenter.org 1800 Camden Rd. Suite 108 Charlotte, NC 28203 Saathee.com

December 2017

UPCOMING MOVIE RELEASES December 8

velaikkaran (Writer: Mohan Raja) Cast: Sneha, Nayanthara, and Prakash Raj

sallu Ki shaadi (Director: Mohammad Israr Ansari) Cast: Zeenat Aman, Kiran Kumar, Asrani, Razzak Khan, and Ravi Pandey

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (Director: Jake Kasdan) Cast: Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black

vishwaroop 2 (Director: Kamal Haasan) Cast: Jaideep Ahlawat, Russell GeoďŹ&#x20AC;rey Banks, and Rahul Bose

downsizing (Director: Alexander Payne) Cast: Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz, Hong Chau, and Kristen Wiig

all the Money in the World (Director: Ridley Scott) Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Michelle Williams, Christopher Plummer, and Stacy Martin

the Post (Director: Steven Spielberg) Cast: Alison Brie, Tom Hanks, Sarah Paulson, and Bruce Greenwood

Just getting started (Director: Ron Shelton) Cast: Morgan Freeman, Tommy Lee Jones, Rene Russo, Glenne Headly

the greatest showman (Director: Michael Gracey) Cast: Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Hugh Jackman, and Zac Efron

Brij Mohan amar Rahe (Director: Nikhil Bhatt) Cast: Arjun Mathur, Nidhi Singh, Manav Vij, Sunny Hinduja, and Yogendra Tikku

December 29

adityam (Director: Kunal Desh) Cast: Ravi Kant Singh, Nidhhi Agerwal, Vanshika, and Shraddha Kapoor

December 15

Monsoon shootout (Director: Amit Kumar) Cast: Geetanjali Thapa, Neeraj Kabi, Vijay Verma, Tannishtha Chatterjee, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui

Phantom thread (Director: Paul Thomas Anderson) Cast: Daniel Day-Lewis, Lesley Manville, Camilla Rutherford, and Vicky Krieps

January 12

star Wars: the Last Jedi (Director: Rian Johnson) Cast: Daisy Ridley, John Boyega, Mark Hamill, and Carrie Fisher

sonu Ke titu Ki sweety (Director: Luv Ranjan) Cast: Kartik Aaryan, Nushrat Bharucha, and Sunny Singh Nijjar

My Friends dulhania (Director: OP Rai) Cast: Mudasir Zafar, Shaina Baweja, Saurabbh Roy, Mayur Mehta, and Pooja Rathi

January 26

2.0 (Director: S. Shankar) Cast: Rajinikanth, Akshay Kumar, and Mayur Bansiwal

Fukrey Returns (Director: Mrigdeep Singh Lamba) Cast: Richa Chadda, Pulkit Samrat, Ali Fazal, Manjot Singh, and Varun Sharma

PadMan (Director: R. Balki) Cast: Akshay Kumar, Sonam Kapoor, and Radhika Apte

December 22

February 2

tiger Zinda Hai (Director: Ali Abbas Zafar) Cast: Salman Khan, Katrina Kaif, Sajjad Delafrooz, Angad Bedi, and Nawab Shah Saathee.com

Murder at Koh e Fiza (Director: Divaker Naik) Cast: Zaira Wasim and Meher Vij

February 9

December 2017

CAROLINAS' LARGEST INDIAN APPAREL STORE neW aLs aRRIv Wo t e v e Ry K s e e W

Open: Tues - Fri: Noon - 6:30 pm Sat: 11:30 am - 7 pm Sun: 1 pm - 6 pm (Closed Monday)

704-910-6940

www.rituselects.com Facebook.com/rituselects

9101 Pineville-Matthews Rd, ste M, Pineville, nC 28134 (next to Chaupaati)

Saathee.com

December 2017

FILM CLIPS ShahRukh Khan and Netflix Announce New Series

Netﬂix and Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment have announced a new project based on Bard of Blood, an Indian author’s spy thriller to be brought to life as a multilingual series. Bilal Siddiqi’s book will be seen as an eight-episode political espionage thriller series. Set against the backdrop of the Indian subcontinent, the series tells the story of an expelled spy who is recalled from his new life as a Shakespeare professor in Panchgani to save his country and long-lost love. A combination of combat skills, intellectual background and personal circumstances propel him to avenge the past and face his enemies in a race against time. The series will be shot on location. Shah Rukh Khan said, “We have always tried to create world class content and entertainment from India. Netﬂix has shown that Indian stories have a global audience and we would love to use this platform and its reach to tell more stories” Shah Rukh Khan is one of the biggest stars in India, and while he won’t star in this production, having his name attached to the series will bring an international audience.

Monsoon Shootout

Monsoon Shootout is the story of a rookie Indian cop who faces a suspected gangster in a deadend as heavy rains lash Mumbai, and has to decide whether to shoot or not. Three separate scenarios explore the impact of his decision on other people’s lives. Each decision pits him against a system which demands a compromise of his morals and every choice has a price. The ﬁlm, directed by Amit Kumar, stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Geetanjali Thapa, Neeraj Kabi, and Vijay Verma. It releases on December 15.

foreign land which places civilian lives in harm’s way, Tiger and Zoya are called back into action for an impossible rescue mission to battle an international terrorist organization. Ali Abbas Zafar directs the actionpacked thriller that opens in theaters worldwide on December 22.

Saathee.com

The Greatest Showman

The Post

Steven Spielberg directs Meryl Streep and Tom Hanks in The Post, a drama about the unlikely partnership between The Washington Post’s Katharine Graham (Streep), the ﬁrst female publisher of a major American newspaper, and editor Ben Bradlee (Hanks), as they race to catch up with The New York Times to expose a massive cover-up of government secrets that spanned three decades and four U.S. Presidents. The two must overcome their diﬀerences as they risk their careers - and their very freedom - to help bring long-buried truths to light. The cast also includes Carrie Coon, David Cross, Bruce Greenwood, and Matthew Rhys. Limited release on December 22 and wide release on January 12.

Inspired by the imagination of P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. The whimsical musical is directed by Michael Gracey and features Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Hugh Jackman, and Zac Efron. The ﬁlm hits the cinemas on December 22.

PadMan

Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle

Tiger Zinda Hai

Salman Khan returns as super spy Tiger in the sequel to the blockbuster Ek Tha Tiger. Katrina Kaif, Sajjad Delafrooz, and Nawab Shah co-star as Tiger Zinda Hai continues the story of two super spies, Indian agent Tiger and Pakistani agent Zoya as they join forces again eight years later. Both have been presumed dead by their respective countries. When all hell breaks loses in a

and Jack Black. Look for the movie in theaters beginning December 22.

Four teenagers discover an old video game console and are literally drawn into the game’s jungle setting becoming the adult avatars they chose. The fantasy adventure ﬁlm is directed by Jake Kasdan and stars Dwayne Johnson, Karen Gillan, Kevin Hart, 26

PadMan is a cinematic biography on Tamil Nadu activist Arunachalam Muruganantham, whose mission was to provide sanitary napkins to poor women of rural areas. Many of these women used old rags during their periods, making them vulnerable to infections. Akshay Kumar stars along with Radhika Apte and Sonam Kapoor. Director R. Balki guides the cast. Look for an appearance by the legendary Amitabh Bachchan. The movie opens in movie houses around the world on January 26. December 2017

Tushar Barot, Agent

919-629-6199 704-302-1215 919-586-7279

tushar@tusharbarot.com

www.TusharBarot.com

110 Osterville Drive, Holly Springs, NC 27540

Come to Mount Soma, Mount Kailash of the West! Sri Somesvara Temple Pure Vastu, 46 tons of granite from India

Pilgrimage site, drawing people from all over the world Delicious Indian Food Discount on accommodations Monday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursday

Rejuvenate! Soak in the stillness and coherence of Mount Soma. Just hours from Charlotte and Raleigh in the Mountains of NC Srisomesvara.org

Saathee.com

Mountsoma.org

Call 828-627-6200 to make your reservation now 27

December 2017

Mumbai Lawyer Inspires a Massive Beach Cleanup

Story and Photos by Chhavi Sachdev, PRI’s The World

Mumbai has 72 miles of coastline, some of it covered in mangroves and some of it sandy or rocky — but none of it is clean. There isn’t a beach culture here. It’s not a place for gathering and tanning — more often it’s a public toilet, garbage dump and, sometimes, a free place to hang out. Exercising and running are next to impossible. The litter makes it an obstacle course. There are cows, crows and stray dogs — but there are also a gazillion candy wrappers, chips packages, cookie packages, shoes, bottles, detergent sachets, disposable cups, and thousands and thousands of blue and white plastic bags. But when the tide is out, hundreds of volunteers can be seen on their hands and knees — thankfully wearing gloves — and pulling all these things out of sand into a plastic tub. They’re here because of one man who’s basically tackling the trash problem head on. Afroz Shah is a constitutional lawyer and a full time “ocean lover and a beach cleaner.” Two years ago, he moved to a beautiful apartment with a view of the ocean near Mumbai’s Versova Jetty. From his windows, he could see the sea, but, also, a disturbing amount of trash. “There was 5.5 feet of plastic at the northern end of the beach. It had piled up, piled up, piled up. So then I said I must do something,” he explains. That “something” translated to getting down on his knees to pick trash off the 2 miles of public beach. Since October 2015, he’s been clearing trash for four hours every weekend in what the United Nations has called the world’s biggest beach cleanup ever. On this weekend, Shah is on the beach with 300 people. He’s in a blue T-shirt and track pants, muddy sneakers and thick rubber gloves — which were a gift from a Norwegian volunteer. He’s sweating profusely and it probably doesn’t help that the black brimmed hat he’s wearing is made of felt. He says it’s the only one he’s found in two years that fits right and doesn’t blow away. When a TV reporter asks him to stand and answer some questions, he politely asks them to come crouch near him so he can keep working while they film. Saathee.com

Shah is at the center of the action and there is a lot going on. Today, the sand is damp and the trash is embedded deeply. “You use your hands or any implement to load it in plastic buckets, which we reuse every week. The buckets are emptied into piles in a corner of the beach. The tractors take it to the local segregation center. What isn’t segregated goes to the landﬁll,” he says. Small groups are digging up garbage and loading up trash. You can hear Gujarati, Hindi, Marathi, English, Tamil, Urdu, Russian — and there are some people from Norway, the UK and Japan. There are kids from the nearby slum, volunteers

Volunteers inspired by Mumbai lawyer Afroz Shah participate in a weekend beach cleanup.

from the neighborhood mosque, soldiers, consultants, teachers and college students. Disha, 15, is barefoot in the muck, hauling out a bag. She used to go to school but now she has to pitch in to support her family and ﬁve siblings. She comes to the beach partly because it’s fun to hang with her friends, but also because it makes her feel good to be doing something altruistic. “Where I live, there used to be a bin, but the authorities have removed it because no one was using it, people bagged their trash and dumped it in the gutter around it. Even we used to throw it in the ocean.” 28

continued on page 86

December 2017

KD Mortgages

Your One Stop Real Estate Consultant,

oﬀering the best Mortgage Rates Established & Operating in Charlotte for over 12 Years!

Offering Best Mortgage Rates and Best Loan Programs!

800.646.7307

rates@kdmortgages.com

Kamal Dawra NMLS#39306

www.kdmortgages.com 3620 Central Ave. Charlotte, NC 28205

Buyers Rebate

Up To 2.5% Listing at 4.5% Total

Property Management

at 5%

*Restrictions Apply please contact us for details

YOUR FULL SERVICE REAL ESTATE FIRM

Buyers Agent Representation Sell a Home (Free Property Valuations) Property Management Commercial Real Estate Services HUD Approved Broker Specialize in Foreclosure, Short Sale 12 years experience in Real estate

You will get the best Service!

Contact KD at 866.590.6666 sale@kmdrealty.com

Licensed in NC & SC

Search homes at

www.kmdrentals.com

www.kmdrealty.com

versha anand Realty

Helping you find the property of your dreams!

221 Mays Mills Dr Cramerton, NC 28012

or F t L oS a l e

• 0.63 Acres • On Golf Course • City water & Sewer • Cramer Mountain • Tennis Court, Pool • $150K

3332 Hawthrone Lane, Belmont, NC

or F t L oS a l e

• 0.6 Acres • cul-de-sac lot • City water & Sewer • Timberlake • $69,900

UP TO 2% BUYER'S REBATE* *Conditions apply. Call for details.

• MLS #3334993

Hire us as your Listing/Buyer's agent

223 Mays Mills Dr Cramerton, NC 28012

or F t L oS a l e

• 0.75 Acres • On Golf Course • City water & Sewer • Cramer Mountain • Tennis Court, Pool • $150K

Our premium marketing expertise helps the seller obtain the highest price** through maximum exposure to the marketplace. And helping buyers find their dream home by using our expertise in the market.

*Buyer must take lender approval to use rebate on CD.

**Home Listings for 1.5%. Call for details.

Versha Anand

Ravi Maddali

Mohan Daggubati

Ramya Ravindran

Broker in Charge

NC Broker/Realtor®

NC/SC Broker/Realtor®

704-905-1103

214-876-1757

513-227-1777

704-577-0541

ravi@vershaanandrealty.com

mohan@vershaanandrealty.com

ramya@vershaanandrealty.com

Helping You Close For Less

Your Dream Home Delivered

versha@vershaanandrealty.com

www.VershaAnandRealty.com

I 1725 Candlewood Ridge Ln, Matthews, NC 28105

Driven By Results

FIRM PRACTICE AREAS:

BUSINESS LAW - Business Ventures, Sale and Purchase of Businesses, Hotels, Investments, Employment Law, Intellectual Property, Commercial Real Estate BUSINESS BANKRUPTCY

DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW – Equitable Distribution, Custody, Alimony

ESTATE PLANNING – Wills, Trusts, Powers of Attorney PERSONAL INJURY – Vehicle Accidents, Medical Malpractice

LITIGATION

MEDIATIONS

www.hullandchandler.com

Ketan P. Soni, Attorney

704.375.8488

eat & Mediterranean Grocer M l a l a H h ies Fres Cheese, Yogurt, Breads, Spices, Hookahs & Hookah accessories Lamb

Chicken Kima

Chicken

Goat

Fresh Halal Meat: Chicken, Lamb, Goat, Lamb Kima kima & Goat Kima Cut To Order & Small Cuts Available

10703-C Park Road Charlotte, nC 28210 Saathee.com

Across from CMC Hospital in Pineville 31

open seven days a Week!

Mon - Sat: 10-9 & Sun: 10-7

704.544.5393

December 2017

SUBCONTINENTAL DIVIDE An Indian Subcontinent & America Dialogue By Ahsen Jillani

regulated and spews pollutants. Scientists blame everything from generators to flatulence in farm animals for creating the toxic umbrella that is smog. Underneath the umbrella are hundreds of millions of people from Karachi to Kolkata to Beijing. The solution providers have the craziest and most desperate ideas, like spraying New Delhi with water. We are all sitting around discussing silly micro ideas for the short run and macro ideas for a decade from today. Meanwhile, millions are in the crosshairs of a crisis that seems to have no immediate solution. Smog is not a simple issue with an acute resolution. We are ill-equipped to measure its consequences. It can turn a virulent variety of the common cold and a mild flu epidemic into something catastrophic. Millions of people are susceptible to respiratory illnesses that are either caused by or aggravated by bad air quality. People who are compromised can suffer prolonged or fatal illnesses. The burden on already shoddy healthcare systems in Third World countries could be overwhelming. Millions could die directly or indirectly from consequences of heavily polluted air. Political and economic solutions are even more elusive. You cannot realistically tell the poorer motorcycle drivers not to go to work while car owners continue to drive. You limit factory emissions and people lose their jobs. You tell farmers to abandon traditional field clearing techniques and you risk interrupting a centuries old cropping cycle. You tell villagers to stop cooking on wood fires and they starve. Smog is a persistent and modern monster that casts a shadow over an entire cultural and geo-political system that cannot wait a decade for answers. The role of the Sun, that eternal source of skin-baking intense heat that we battle for 8-9 months in South Asia—well, we don’t even know. Creating a cloudy dome of pollution over us can have unpredictable and catastrophic results as regards to sunlight. All kind of balances are maintained by the sun that we have never calculated in a scientific manner: plant growth and oxygen release, control of algae growth, disinfecting of sewage, evaporation of water, crop growth, pest control, disease control by killing bacteria and viruses. The short answer: we really don’t know the facts about how sunlight and smog interact to alter our lives. I am not an environmental scientist or a medical professional…but I do have plenty of free amateur advice at cocktail parties after a glass of wine. “So, what are the air pollution solutions, Mr. Wise Guy,” I hear frequently after I lecture people on smog and the politics of climate change. For once, I can offer no advice from the peanut gallery. We won’t put fans in the jetstream to redirect air; we won’t make it rain and wash off the smog. We won’t invent and hand out a billion portable solar air purifiers that have no energy footprint. My answer is usually simple and dire: “Millions of us will die.” My answer is usually untypical for me: “Pray.”

smog…and Living Past It

A cousin recently posted a United Nations chart showing the 10 worst air quality cities on the planet. Surprisingly, 6 out of 10 were in South Asia, with Lahore and New Delhi taking the venerable 1st and 2nd spots. I had already spent several weeks looking at videos of chain reaction car accidents all over the subcontinent. Visibility was so bad last month that once a single wreck happened on the highway, there was no way to stop cars from continuing to slam into a pile of twisted metal ahead of them. But smog does not end on the highway. I came into Manhattan from Virginia occasionally during summers when my dad was visiting on various UN assignments. Without GPS back in the ‘80s, you could easily follow the greenish yellow dome of toxic fumes straight into New York City. I was young and thought little about the impacts. Johnny Carson joked about LA smog regularly; there was hardly a recognition that smog was Underneath the umbrella anything other than a driving are hundreds of millions of inconvenience while we idled in hopeless freeway people from Karachi to traffic jams in mostly old Kolkata to Beijing. smoking clunkers, which is what the majority of people drove in big urban areas while Reaganomics was still waiting to trickle down and bring unbridled wealth to the masses. Growing up, I could identify many large global cities by the smell of the air alone—it was diesel, petrol, sulfur, burnt plastic, smoking wood. The cities had a permanent smell that you got used to and lived with. It wasn’t until 2004 or so, when riding my bike in southern North Carolina, that I started noticing subtle differences in the evenings. I was reasonably fit for 44, but on bad ozone alert days would start wheezing after a few hundred yards. Machismo ruled my life, however, and I landed in the ER twice in two years because of breathing issues. No one mentioned air quality while I was under CAT scan machines. Smog is not a funny phenomenon that happens when everyone with a motorized vehicle decides to drive to work. With the US flip flopping on the Paris Accords, scientists are warning that we are reaching that critical stage in climate change that will lead to catastrophic consequences. Eminent physicist Stephen Hawking is warning that this planet will actually have to be evacuated within 600 years. It is possible that we may have killed Earth. The BBC reported from New Delhi recently that the rich and even the middle class were rushing to buy air purifiers. In Pakistan, where the power is frequently off due to “load shedding”, the air purifier buyers probably fire up very high polluting generators and blow even more pollution in the air while they sit inside under the delusion that they are getting clean air. The farmers are being accused throughout South Asia of burning fields to prepare for new planting. It is something they have done for millennia without consequence. Now a perfect storm is developing that includes millions of buses, cars, motorbikes, rickshaws and taxis. The industrial sector is badly Saathee.com

Ahsen Jillani

a former editor and publisher, is originally from Islamabad , Pakistan , and now lives in Mint Hill. He owns Must Media, a PR company focusing on both political and corporate clients.

December 2017

Specializing in Commercial Financing in the following categories (SBA & Conventional): Healthcare Professionals Manufacturers Professional Services Retail Businesses Wholesalers Agriculture Energy Women in Business Equipment Leasing & many more

PNC can help with solutions like Payroll, Treasury Managements, Payables & Receivables, Merchant Services, and Checking & Savings accounts.

Reena Ruwala Vice President Relationship Manager-Business Banking 20 years of Banking Experience

704-443-8363

Email: reena.ruwala@pnc.com

Second Location Now Open in North Charlotte / University area

Accounting, Payroll & Taxes

• Federal, State Income Taxes • ITIN Applications

• IRS Audit Representation • IRS back taxes

• Business Accounting and Book Keeping • Paroll Services

• New Business Set-Up

Saathee.com

December 2017

Where Quality Meets Value. Low Prices Every Day! Wishing You A Happy Holiday Season!

WE CARRY ASLI, Deep, LAXMI & NIRAV PRODUCTS Full Line Of Groceries, Fresh Vegetables, Snacks, Frozen Fish, Indian Jewelry, Music & Movies

TWO CONVENIENT LOCATIONS! Original Location

509 North Polk St. (South Blvd) Pineville, NC 28134

Directions: 2 Miles from Carolina Place Mall and I-485 (exit 65-B- towards Pineville). Same Shopping Center as Subway & Sherwin Williams. Across the street from Performance Honda / Suzuki

704.889.2210 Fax:704.889.2211 Contact Pritesh Patel

Open Seven Days a Week: 9:30 am to 8:30 pm

2nd Location 8215 - F University City Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28213

704.597.9933 Open Seven Days A Week: 10:30 am to 8:30 pm

We Accept EBT Cards & All Major Credit Cards (Including American Express)

Visit us online at INDIAGROCERSNC.COM Like us on Facebook at India Grocers Charlotte

SouthEast Family Care where quality matters 10035 Park Cedar Dr, Suite 100 Charlotte NC 28210. Ofﬁce: 704-544-2524; Fax: 704-544-2647

New patients welcome! All insurances accepted! Regular hours from January 1, 2018; Mon-Fri: 10-6 & Weekends: 9-2 (By appointments only) Walk ins welcome, Appointments are available by phone,

Concierge service available (info available upon calling)

WE OFFER: Allergy Testing Spirometry Electrocardiogram ABI Measurement to check for peripheral arterial disease All routine tests are done in clinic Vitamin B12 shots

Hiren Italia, MD

Vijay Jarsania, MD

Weight loss management

Diabetes Management Hypertension Management All chronic disease management Annual physicals Sports Physicals Cancer screening Behavioral Health Management Heart Attack Prevention Acute Illness

Board Certified in Family Medicine

Music Lessons for ages 3 and Up!

Charlotte Music School

The Only Exclusive Music School in the Area!

Piano, Guitar, Trumpet, Violin, Viola, Horn, Drums, Voice, Ukulele, Harp, Accordion, Woodwinds, Brass, Jam Sessions, Performances, Recitals, Master Classes & more

Only $99 for the 1st Month (4 lessons) Enroll by Jan 30, 2018 Sign-up today! Space is limited!

Why Charlotte Music School: • Expert Instruction

Want your little one to get a head start in music? Ages 3 - 5 We have established a fun music curriculum that will allow your child to learn about instruments and music theory while preparing them for private lessons. Call for details. Saathee.com

• Student Recitals each semester in true Concert Hall!

• Discounts on sheet music and accessories • We are a true music school that is student-centered 35

(704) 295-7676

10210 Berkeley Place Dr., Suite 150 Charlotte, NC 28262

(Pinnacle Place Shopping Center, next to Holy Joe’s!)

www.charlottemusicschool.com

December 2017

Is it time for a Cyber Peace Corps?

By Scott Shackelford, the conversation

Hackers around the world are attacking targets as diverse as North Dakota’s state government, the Ukrainian postal service and a hospital in Jakarta, Indonesia. Unfortunately, many governments – in the developing world, and even cashstrapped states and local communities in the United States – lack the skills to eﬀectively protect themselves. The U.S. has an opportunity to serve itself and the world by revitalizing the ideals of global service popularized in another era of its history. Congress should expand the mandates of the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps to create a Cyber Peace Corps. It could do this by amending the Edward M. Kennedy Serve America Act, which was passed in 2009 to reorganize and expand the AmeriCorps program.

a call to service President John F. Kennedy established the Peace Corps in 1961 as a way for American volunteers to bring their skills and energy to the world. In the decades since, more than 225,000 Americans have served in the Peace Corps in more than 140 nations. Currently, there are more than 7,000 volunteers serving abroad in 65 nations working on a wide range of projects including ﬁghting hunger by reducing soil erosion, promoting maternal health and teaching environmental sustainability. Though not without its critics, overall the Peace Corps has done a tremendous amount of good around the world. It has long enjoyed strong bipartisan support at a relatively small cost. Similarly, more than 900,000 Americans have served in AmeriCorps since its founding in 1993, at more than 21,000 locations across the country, contributing some 1.2 billion hours of service. These eﬀorts are focused on community support in the U.S., through disaster response and recovery work, and providing assistance to local residents who are disabled, poor, elderly or homeless. AmeriCorps has not enjoyed the same level of bipartisan political support as the Peace Corps, in part, some argue, because inadequate funding has limited its potential. The Serve America Act boosted AmeriCorps’ funding to more than US$1 billion annually, for example, but this is an amount still far less than the $10 billion per year that the original proponents envisioned. Saathee.com

expanding service options Adding cybersecurity to the mandates of America’s national and international service programs would help fight the dire cyber-insecurity problems facing the country and the world. The effort could bolster political support, and funding, for the Peace Corps and AmeriCorps. But more importantly, it could help train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Partnerships with universities and community colleges across the nation could create summer cybersecurity boot camps and clinics to teach young Americans how to defend computer systems against malicious hackers. That would help address the projected shortage of 1.8 million cybersecurity professionals by 2022, and prepare prospective members of a Cyber National Guard. If Congress doesn’t act, other options exist for both individuals and companies. A program like Teach for America could recruit willing volunteers and help prepare them for service. And private firms and civic groups could create their own coalitions, perhaps along the lines of the Service Corps of Retired Executives, linking trained professionals with communities needing help. A similar effort in India, the nonprofit Cyber Peace Foundation, has partnered cybersecurity experts with community organizations to help protect vulnerable populations, such as the elderly.

toward cyber peace In the U.S., a pilot project could start with existing industry organizations focused on sharing cyber-threat information. Interested member corporations could contribute their workers for a fixed period of time to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities in their communities, including for school districts, municipalities and utility companies. Firms with international operations could do the same abroad. When President Kennedy called for the creation of the Peace Corps during the turbulent 1960 election, the world was different: At the height of the Cold War, America faced a difficult challenge to win hearts and minds, especially in nations not yet aligned with either the U.S. or the Soviet Union. Today negative perceptions about the United States are rising around the world. Developing U.S. cybersecurity talent and deploying it to mitigate threats to information security both at home and abroad would help protect vulnerable communities and rebuild social ties. In fact, the efforts involved in getting Cyber Peace Corps workers and their hosts to work together to protect potentially sensitive information may help strengthen trust and goodwill among nations. And it would recast 20th-century service commitments to face 21st-century challenges. There are untold thousands of people on college campuses, working for small businesses and in leading tech firms who are worried about the world’s lack of cybersecurity, but who feel powerless to change things. If given an opportunity, their work would help create the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. And it could offer new opportunities to bridge partisan divides at home, and geopolitical fault lines abroad. Scott Shackelford is Associate Professor of Business Law and Ethics; Director, Ostrom Workshop Program on Cybersecurity and Internet Governance; Cybersecurity Program Chair, IU-Bloomington, Indiana University Article courtesy of www.theconversation.com

December 2017

RAJDEEP VIDEO &

SHAH & TRIVEDI CPA, PLLC

Certified Public Accountants and Wealth Planners

FROM BASIC BOOKKEEPING TO MORE COMPLEX FINANCIAL NEEDS

• Bookkeeping • Full service payroll • New business set-up • Review & compilation • Project finance • Support services in India • Business consulting • Notary

PHOTOGRAPHY

• Individual & business taxes • Retirement planning • College education planning • Investment linked insurance plans -life, health, long-term care • Representations with government authorities • Financial statement preparation

We do any occasion at very affor dable rates

WHERE YOUR FINANCIAL SUCCESS IS OUR BUSINESS

We shoot in hi-def & provide your event on blu-ray or dvd. Kirti Shah, CPA, CA (India) Kirti.shah@shahandtrivedicpa.com

Weddings • Receptions • Birthdays Graduations • Social Gatherings

5 O ve r 2 o f s Year ce! en Experi

Kalgi Trivedi, CPA

Kalgi.Trivedi@shahandtrivedicpa.com

Shah & Trivedi CPA, PLLC | Kirti Shah CPA, PLLC 301 McCullough Drive, 4th floor, Charlotte, NC 28262 Office: 704-909-2980, 704-497-3898 Fax: 704-765-0303, 704-612-9628 www.shahandtrivedicpa.com

Saathee.com

Call RAMESH PANJABI

336-847-0254

Email: Rickycrazy@aol.com

Other services available :

Sound System, DJ, Live Band, Karaoke, Tabla, Dhol, Drum Players...

December 2017

SUP

G AT E

ERB IND IA

ISIN

The Carolinas’ Premier Restaurant & Caterer

INDIAN CUISINE Open 7 Days a week for Buffet Lunch & Dinner A La Carte now offering delivery during dinner! sunday thru Friday, 5:30pm-9pm, call 704.542.3933 (12 mile radius)

• Full Service Catering in North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, & Virginia

• Business / Corporate Functions, Weddings, Birthdays, Holidays, Community Gatherings, etc. • Preferred Caterers for Hyatt, Sheraton, Marriott, Embassy Suites, Westin Hotels, Ritz-Carlton, Columbia Convention Center, Ballantyne Hotel and more.

“Best of the Best”

- news & observer

“Chicken tikka Masala Rated in top 10 dishes...”

- news & observer

Your Catering Specialists

Catering Hotline: Nishal Sethi: 919.247.8207 Naval Sethi: 919.260.8588

877.266.2296 or order on-line. Email: catorder@bombaygrille.com

www.bombaygrille.com

Place your Catering Order or make Reservations Online!

Tower Place

8706 Pineville-Matthews Rd Charlotte, NC 28226

Tel: 704.542.3933 Established 1989

C O M P L I M E N TA RY C O N S U LTAT I O N S !

ILLUME MD M ED -SPA Laser Hair Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Acne Treatments Pigmentation Removal â&#x20AC;˘ Cosmetic Injectables 2315 W. Arbors Drive Suite 230 Charlotte, NC 28262 (704) 817-9421 www.illume.life

Search for Properties Anywhere with Tate Mobile Concord - Christenbury Glen 2445 Summers Glen Cr NW $ 539,900

Access properties throughout the Carolinas anywhere from your mobile device - at home, at work or on the go.

Harrisburg - Brookedale Commons 4841 Pepper Dr $ 339,000

Charlotte - Sanders Farm 5936 Sanders Farm Lane SOLD

Gitanjali Mathur

704-975-8709 Realtor, Broker, ABR Licensed in NC & SC Experience counts!

Gitanjali.Mathur@allentate.com GMSellsHomes.com Saathee.com

December 2017

NAMASKAR Y’ALL Reﬂections and a few confessions as an Indian American in the Carolinas

The liveliness of large metropolitan cities can be energizing as well as maddening. The snail’s pace at which we moved was frustrating but it also gave us the time to gawk. Mesmerized by the displays in the trendy stores of 5th Avenue, I gaped until my senses were assaulted by the stench on the street. Lined with black trash bags outside restaurants and businesses, the garbage deliberately betrayed the trail of waste that consumers left behind. After the deadly attack in Lower Manhattan, just a week before the marathon, I expected anxiety and an eerie control over the proceedings of the world’s biggest race. What I found instead was confidence and enthusiasm. Fear did not slow the people down and it was amazing to see thousands on the sidelines, encouraging and supporting the marathon participants from start to finish. Beneath the top layer of cheeriness, I sensed with deep admiration the resilience of the city. Another common thread that it shares with Mumbai, which sadly, has been the target of several terror attacks. Mumbai may take a blow, but it refuses to be knocked out of the game. It was also great to see Tata, a historically Mumbai company, in its global avatar - TCS, as the title sponsor of the event. So, while my husband aimed at running 26.2 miles on a rainy day, my children and I set out for more trivial pursuits. We spent the morning exploring the streets and avenues of Manhattan, spotting famous landmarks and window shopping. Tall buildings and endless entertainment options rarely help you in making a connection with the city, it is always the people. For me, it was reconnecting with my childhood friend. Spending a few hours with her, as we laughed about the old days and shared stories, made my weekend in New York extra special. People in this mega city may be labeled rude, but they also take the time to help. The subway cuts barriers that may otherwise segregate people by class. A society that seemingly doesn’t care also liberates you from caring too much about what others think. Unexpectedly, at the end of the day, when friends and family members attempted to meet 50,000 exhausted runners, I had the strongest flashbacks of Mumbai’s overcrowded trains. At an intersection near Central Park, between the finish line and family reunion, a tsunami of humans descended in our direction as we tried to make our way to the opposite side. My kids and I tightly linked our arms, terrified at the thought of being separated. The fact that we passed through the jam-packed area unscathed and were able to find my favorite runner, (i.e. my husband) was a miracle. I’ve realized that, unlike the first time, when I yearned to find Mumbai in New York, this time around, Mumbai found me.

By Shyama Parui

Finding Mumbai in new york

A familiar excitement was building and I felt a knot in my stomach as the plane began its descent towards La Guardia airport. Looking out through the tiny window, my children squeezed my hand. Bright lights appeared to invite us to a gleaming and festive zone, but I knew that it was just an illusion. I was simply projecting my own sentiment. Weary travelers didn’t notice the allure of the Big Apple. Most heads were buried in their tablets or phones and some were solely focused on grabbing their belongings, ready to execute their exit strategy. When the plane finally touched down, I was eager to see what New York City had in store for me this time. At the turn of the century when this Mumbai Girl had made her way to Charlotte, she had felt lost in the city’s open spaces and empty roads. In all fairness, Charlotte has grown exponentially since then and The liveliness of large has the swagger of its big city metropolitan cities can be cousins. However, when I was terribly homesick, my energizing as well as first trip to New York City, maddening. with its grit and grime, was oddly comforting as it was reminiscent of Mumbai. I liked it for the very reasons that others hated the city. Unlike Charlotte, you were not expected to greet or make small talk with everyone you met. That was such a relief to me and I realized how much time I would save if I didn’t have to say, “Hello, how are you doing?” several times a day to folks I barely knew. More than a decade has passed and I wondered if things would be different. Over the years, our family has put down roots in North Carolina, and it is the only place my children know as home. Besides, I don’t miss the headaches associated with crowds, heavy traffic, and a high crime rate. Our travel-loving family always has an eye open for trips, so, when my husband won the lottery to participate in November’s TCS New York City Marathon, we felt like we hit the jackpot. To non-runners (if there is such a term) it may not seem like a big deal because every marathon is 26.2 miles and finishing the distance is hard, no matter what. To get a runner’s perspective, you can think of it this way, you may have seen many tall buildings and rooftop views, but the Empire State Building is till special due to its iconic reputation and because it had the honor of being the World’s Tallest Building for 40 years. Once we stepped outside the airport, I was reminded of Mumbai without much effort. The good, bad, and the ugly aspects revealed themselves in the short span of the cab ride to the hotel. To begin with, the taxi driver nearly drove off without me, and once I got in I muttered some angry comments in Bengali, my mother tongue. Within seconds the cabbie revealed that he was Bangladeshi and chatted away in the same language. Great! At least, he realized I was mad. That was hardly surprising since New York is a melting pot that holds people from across the globe, just like Mumbai is a magnet that attracts people from all over India. Saathee.com

Shyama Parui

Shyama is a long time North Carolina resident and an ardent writer. You can reach her at: shyamashree_parui@hotmail.com

December 2017

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Representative, has a tremendous reputation for quality, service, and very competitive pricing for ALL of your Vacation travel needs. I will help you discover exciting adventures around the world. From cruises to land tours and completely packaged vacations, we specialize in all types of vacation travel and will create an unforgettable vacation just for you.

Fall Special: $100 OFF of your next vacation,

with our no obligation Allstate Insurance Quote. Call for details.

Raghu Mothukuri raghu.mothukuri@cruiseplanners.com

704-612-3762 www.bigrockvacations.com

Desai & Desai LLP

We thank our Clients for their business and support over the last 20 years

We now have a Business location in Cary, NC

CERTIFIED P U B L I C A C C O U N TA N T S

Bookeeping & Sales tax returns • Individual / Business Tax Services Business Financial Statements Preparation • Personal Financial Statements Compilations • Estate Planning • Life Insurance and Annuities • Asset Management and Financial Advisory

FINANCIAL SERVICES

www.desaillp.com

In addition we have increased important ﬁnancial services in addition to accounting such as:

Life Insurance and annuities

We have added very experienced staﬀ to support these services. We can work with Various Top Performing Financial Companies.

Fee Based asset Management

We have added a Certiﬁed Financial Planner with 20 years of experience managing Assets and Portfolios.

anup desai or Bhishma Patel 2423-B Plantation Center dr. Matthews, nC 28105 704.845.0918 or 704.845.0915 eFax: 704-973-7935

anup@desaillp.com or bhishma@desaillp.com Saathee.com

Chirag Patel 1000 Centre green Way, suite 200 Cary nC 27513 919.228.6310 eFax: 704-973-7935 chirag@desaillp.com

December 2017

Invest in Your Child Enrolling Now For Spring 2018

PAYAL

Fresh vegetables at the lowest prices! Full Line Of Indian Groceries & Spices

Shyama B E A U T Y PA R L O R (Inside Payal Grocery)

Call Shyama Patel for appointment

704-553-6863

DVD with $50 Grocery Eye Brow with $100 Grocery Eye Brow & Upper Lips with $150 Grocery

FREE FREE FREE

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! 11 AM TO 8 PM

We accept EBT

Call Harish Patel

704-553-6863

• Eye Brow Threading • Facial

• Waxing

• Bleaching

6233 South Blvd • Charlotte, NC 28217 Visit our website! payalindiangroceries.com

Rajarshi Desai

• Audit Representation and Tax Resolution to 100% clients satisfaction before federal, state and local tax authorities, including filing past year returns. • Review for possible Federal or State income tax exposure. • Monthly Bookkeeping Services.

704.541.9966 or 917.612.1489 (cell)

• Payroll and Sales Tax preparation and Compliance.

I Believe in the Value of Relationships.

I view every client relationship like a partnership and truly believe that my success is a result of your success.

CPA, PLLC

11111 Carmel Commons Blvd. Carmel Park 1 Building Suite #155 Charlotte, NC 28226 Fax: 704.541.9816

E-mail: rd@rajdesaicpa.com

Member: American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and NYSSCPA

I am committed to providing close, personal attention to my clients. I take pride in giving you the assurance that the personal assistance you receive comes from 15 years of my public accounting experience including several years of Big 4 accounting firm’s advanced training, technical experience and financial acumen. My continual investment of time and resources in professional continuing education and extensive business relationships is indicative of my commitment to excellence. Saathee.com

• Financial reviews and compilation including compliance testing. • Corporate, partnership, individual, trust and estate tax consulting, planning and compliance. • Mergers and acquisition reviews including business valuations. • Comprehensive business services in accounting and auditing. • Management information systems consulting and technology implementation services. December 2017

MARKETING TURNAROUND

By Gail Z. Martin

go global, stay Local

Whether your company is purely local or has a global footprint, you need to be active and visible on social media. Why? Because your prospects and customers expect you to be findable online, and will consider your absence to be suspicious, perhaps even unprofessional. When a potential new customer meets you, he or she is likely to look for your website to verify the first impression and gather new information. Depending on your type of business, someone might turn next to LinkedIn for a look at your profile, connections, recommendations and endorsements, as well as your resume. Or, they might look at Angie’s List, Yelp, Google or Amazon to see how your product or service ranks and what customers say. They might check your blog to see your articles, videos, photos and event updates. Odds are good they’ll look for your Facebook page and Twitter feed to see what kind of recent news, specials, coupons or details you’ve shared, or to get a better sense of your personality. Any time you leave a void in that cycle of discovery by your absence, there’s a piece Play up your participation missing in the puzzle. Your in local festivals, parades, prospect is trying to put the sporting events, street fairs, pieces together to get a complete picture of who you charities and recreation. are, how well you serve our customers, how you see your role in the world, and how much you interact and engage with others. If you’re not findable on social media with recently and consistently updated content, you risk looking unapproachable at best and behind the times at worst.

stay Local I’ve heard owners of mom-and-pop local businesses ask why they need to be on social media that is seen around the world when their customers come from down the street. There’s a curious perspective there, assuming that only people in far-away places use the internet. The short answer is: Because your local customers also use Facebook. Social media has become the source for news and information for a large (and growing) chunk of the population, across all age and economic brackets. Smart phones and Wi-Fi have helped to put the power of a computer and the connectivity of the internet in reach of most consumers. So it’s natural that people turn first to social media and mobile apps to decide what to do next weekend, where to go for dinner tonight, what movie to see, what the flavor of the day is at the local ice cream shop. Consumers make purchase decisions based the information they find online. If you’re a restaurant without a menu online or without a way to share daily specials, some customers will go to a competitor where they can be sure to get what they want. If you’re a nightspot without a way to advertise the featured drink-of-the-day and live music, you’ll see business go elsewhere rather than show up and be disappointed. Saathee.com

Even if you’re not in a retail or hospitality business, you probably aren’t the only business in your field. It’s a definite disadvantage when your customers can learn more about a competitor with a few web clicks than they can about you. Highly motivated prospects may make the effort, but most won’t bother. Now that people are used to being able to do some ‘stealth’ intelligence gathering by going online, it seems intrusive and bothersome to make a phone call or request information by mail. And if your business is clinging to antiquated delivery systems, prospects may wonder if you’re mired in outdated ideas in other areas. Consider your social media sites to be ways to show your engagement with and participation in your local community. Do you support local school or community sports teams? Show pictures from the games, show off the jerseys your company underwrote, celebrate the team’s victories and trophies. Do your employees volunteer locally? Post pictures from your latest project, whether it’s putting in flowers at a local school, building a Habitat house or helping with a holiday toy drive. In fact, you can use the power of the internet and social media to encourage more people to donate or volunteer for the local causes you support, and to provide recognition and acknowledgement for those who do. Don’t be afraid to have fun. Use the gamification principle to run online contests, or ask your followers for their opinion with polls. Polling is fun and social when you share the aggregated (anonymous) results because everyone wants to know what other people think. Polls can be serious (like having people pick their top concern about retirement) or fun (like picking next week’s featured flavor) to whimsical (like naming a company mascot or a lawn decoration or even a large piece of equipment). Remember that social media is supposed to be social. Use it to get into conversations with your most enthusiastic customers. Find out what else they like aside from your products to flesh out a psychographic profile of your core tribe. You might get great ideas for collaborations, joint ventures or cross-promotions. Ask their opinion, even if it’s about who might win the Super Bowl or the what’s the best green bean casserole recipe for Thanksgiving. People love to be asked, and they love to share. Give them glimpses of your life outside of work: pets, hobbies, vacation snippets, favorite foods, etc. In a world where people feel increasingly disconnected from others, sharing personal touches builds community and also strengthens the like-know-trust factor. As a local business, your local-ness is one of your greatest strengths. Play up your participation in local festivals, parades, sporting events, school programs, street fairs, business organizations, charities and recreation. Snap pictures of you and your employees out and about in local places or nearby continued on page 116

Gail Z. Martin

owns DreamSpinner Communications. Contact her at Gail@GailMartinMarketing.com

December 2017

Call us for all of your Travel Inquiries today!!!

Mount Soma Cottage for Sale

We process all Countries Tourist Visa Applications along with: • Indian Visas (Multiple Entries & E-Visa on Arrival) • OCI / PIO to OCI Convert • Renunciation (Surrender of Indian Passport) • Indian Passport Renewal/Lost/Damaged

in Clyde, NC (near Asheville) Next to Sri Somesvara Temple

Inquire us for any • International & Domestic Air Tickets • Hotels booking & Tours Packages Located in Morrisville, NC • Luxury Sea Cruises • Tour to Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada & US.

Open 24/7

Call Deval Patel / Anby

509.550.9034 or 509.550.9076 Email: travelpassion24@gmail.com

Commercial, Residential Property

and Businesses For Sale Electronics Repair shop (TV, Audio, etc), very well know store in business for 20 years, good business and priced to sell; Beauty supply store with property; Dry Cleaner plant with property;

Peaceful Mountain Living! Stapatyaved, 6 rooms, 3 baths & parking.

Rose Mun Realty

Rose Mun 704-649-0021

Call Maura Shea: 410-674-3960 or Email: maura.shea@yahoo.com

Aureus University School of Medicine

Set Your Sights on a Bold New Horizon Semester begins January 2018 and May 2018

Your Path to Medical School Why Choose AUREUS?

þ Small class sizes, enhancing the learning experience þ Professors are able to give individualized personal attention to each student þ Experienced and full time faculty enrich student academics þ Affordable tuition fees þ Individually sponsored merit based scholarships þ US & Canadian licensed visiting professors þ Warm, friendly, and safe atmosphere. Saathee.com

Offers MD Degree Program: Five Years (High School Graduates) Four Years (BS Graduates) MCAT not Required MD Degree Recognized In: United States (ECFMG & IMED) Canada (MCC) Listed in WHO Directory 45

united states admission oﬃce 21-00 Route 208 South, Suite 220 Fairlawn, NJ 07410 Tel: (201) 773-8880 Fax: (201) 773-8884

aureus university Campus Wayaca 31C Oranjestad, Aruba Tel: 297 583-2126 Fax: 297 583-2127 www.aureusuniversity.com December 2017

MASTERING MEANING

Harnessing the Power of American English By Judith L. Bergman

q. A blemish of unknown origin usually present at birth or shortly after r. The recognized standard or quality s. Moving in rhythm t. A point reached or gained u. Receives a visible impression v. Destined or singled out w Characterized or distinguished by x. A symbol used for punctuation

This month we will examine your knowledge of the word mark, both as a verb and a noun and in many idioms. We will begin with a grammar quiz, based on my test ﬁndings with clients. Select the grammatically correct form of the verb “mark” in these sentences from the choices at the end: 1. He said that his little girl _____ oﬀ every day until her vacation. 2. Don’t ____ the table with your pen. 3. I ____ their essays today after the class is dismissed. 4. They ______ their anniversary by going out to dinner. 5. Prices will be ______ down for the sale. 6. We’re just _____ time until 5:00 PM. a. mark b. marking c. will mark d. marks e. marked

suggested strategies to increase your mastery of meaning this month: See how many uses of mark you can ﬁnd in your local newspaper and in articles in your favorite magazines (including Saathee). References: 1, http://www.thefreedictionary.com/mark answers: 1-d, 2-a, 3-c 4-e 5-e, 6-b, 7-h 8-k, 9-n, 10-f, 11-j 12-l, 13-p 14-g, 15-m 16-i, 17-o 18-q, 19-t 20-r, 21-u, 22-s, 23-x, 24-w, 25-v.

Match these sentences with forms of the verb or noun mark with the correct meaning. 1

is a speech-language pathologist and corporate speech trainer who owns Triangle Speech Services and specializes in foreign accent modiﬁcation. Her book, Mastering Meaning: Harnessing the Power of American English, is now available at lulu.com and amazon.com. Contact her at www.trianglespeech.com or jlbergman@mindspring.com or 919-489-5464.

Judith L. Bergman M.A CCC

7. Good manners are the mark of a well brought up child. _____ 8.He always gets high marks on his math tests. ___ 9. That event left its mark on all of us who were on the trip. ___ 10. The surveyor marked off the property that was for sale. ___ 11. If you are late again it will be a black mark against you. ___ 12. Their analysis of the situation was not too far off the mark. ___ 13. Elderly people are considered easy marks by telephone con artists. ___ 14. You had better mark my words when I tell you he’s a troublemaker. ___ 15. His description of John as caring and also meticulous really hits the mark. __ 16. This shrub is marked as in need of removal and replacement. ___ 17. The family was marked for life by that tragedy. ___ 18. That spot on his arm is a birth-mark. ___ 19. He started leading at the halfway mark of the race. ___ 20. Your work of late is not up to the mark. ____ 21. Be careful, this floor marks easily. ___ 22. We laughed to see the little child marking time to the music. ___ 23. Should that sentence end in a period or question mark? ___ 24. Her face was marked by sadness. ___ 25. From a young age, Malala was marked for greatness because of her dedication to a cause greater than herself. ___

f. Indicated the limits of with boundary lines g. Pay close attention because I’m certain this will happen in the future. h. A distinctive characteristic i. Given a tag or mark to indicate a required action j. Give you a bad reputation, a negative indicator k. Grades indicated by numbers, letters or symbols l. Was pretty accurate, but not completely m. Is accurate and suitable n. Had a lasting eﬀect o. Permanently aﬀected p. Too trusting and likely victims Saathee.com

Authentic Malaysian, Chinese & Indian Cuisine Vegetarian Selection Available Dine-In, Take-Out & Catering Dessert!

Fried Ice Cream

704.541.6668

Order On Line Malayakitchen.com

$5 OFF

w/ purchase of $30 or more before tax. With this ad. Exp. 1.5.18 18% Gratuity added for Dine In. Restrictions may apply.

OPEN: Tuesday - Sunday Closed Mon

Arboretum Shopping Center 8200-400 Providence Rd., Charlotte, NC 28277

December 2017

TUTORING

Experienced Charlotte Tutor

For All Grades! Specializing in SAT, GRE, ACT, PSAT and other AP Exams Enrichment and Remediation Available for Grades K to 12

Flexible Rates! Call: (646) 261-4887 or email: singh.ricky@gmail.com Give the gift of ﬁnancial protection. We can help you develop a ﬁnancial protection strategy that helps you protect what matter most to you.

Karamjit Kaur Financial Services Professional Registered Representative offering securities through NYLIFE Securities LLC,Member FINRA/SIPC, a licensed Insurance Company.

Licensed Insurance Agent Charlotte General Ofﬁce kkaur03@ft.newyorklife.com Cell : 704-451-5605 Work : 704-371-8500 716-381-0003

Do well by giving the gift of financial protection.

Saathee.com

December 2017

Happy Holiday s!

MEAT HALAL LE B AVAILA

Indo-Chinese Cuisine Catering Menu Available at our Website

www.asianafusionsushi.com Open for Lunch & Dinner Tuesday to Sunday (Closed Mondays)

704.896.8827

Shops at Fresh Market 20601 Torrence Chapel Road, Ste 107 Cornelius, NC 28031 Saathee.com

December 2017

PERSONAL FINANCES

taxpayers will not be too happy about that. There are roughly between 44 and 50 million taxpayers who go for such deductions. What is mentioned above is what we know today; I am sure it will change considerably in scope and content and nobody can predict at this time what direction it may take. It is not certain when it will become law but the estimates are that it may not happen before the New Year. In the meanwhile, what should we be doing? Even with such colossal amount of uncertainty looming, the answer is very simple. We need to take full advantage of the current laws, within the legal limits, while doing taxes for 2017 and not wait for the new laws to set-in for 2018. Essentially try to bring, as much as possible, all the expenses in the Itemized form into 2017. IRS does allow us this up to a point. I will explain. If your property taxes are due in the ﬁrst part of January, for example, you can pay those in December before the year is over; same thing goes for city and local taxes. All the medical expenses you paid this year regardless when the service was provided can be included. If you pay by check the day you mail or deliver the check is the date of payment. If you use a credit card include the medical expenses charged to your credit card in the year the charge is made not when you actually pay the amount charged. Medical premiums can be paid a bit earlier than usual if they can be paid in 2017. Dental and eye appointments and regular medical check-ups can be pulled forward. Be careful with Medicare appointments since some of those are time dependent and cannot be pulled forward. All the donations and gifts to charities can certainly be done sooner to allow us to show them in 2017. Not all but many business-related expenses like membership dues, uniforms, work-related tools etc. can be incurred in November and December as well. Mortgage payments can be done ahead of time as well, for a month or two. While we concentrated on Itemized deductions above, we should also be looking at the form 1040. Maximizing traditional contributions to IRA for 2017, alimony paid, expenses for business income, educator expenses, maximizing HSAs, and student loan interest deductions as well as tuition fees and other college deductions should not be ignored. Some of the items mentioned above may disappear in the new law. So, it is best to get going and have your plans ready before the New Year arrives. We haven’t talked about the actual tax brackets but in the new proposal those who fall into the 12 to 25% bracket may end up paying more taxes. There is also talk about reducing the max limit on 401K deductions from the standard 18,000 to around $2,400 or so; not good for middle class. Stay tuned.

By Mo Vidwans

tax season approaches. are you Ready?

What? Did I not just file my taxes? Yes, you did but that was for last year. This preparation is now for the year that is about to end, 2017. As much as we do wish to never look at it again, the tax season it is here and is not going away any time soon. It has been bugging us for more than 100 years now (since 1913 when the final laws were passed for the first time and since changed numerous times over the century). The sad thing is that once the year is over, you cannot take too many actions that will help you reduce your taxes for 2017 and hence it is much easier to start working on it now while you still have the right calendar year. Needless to say, working on reducing the taxes is a yearlong effort and not something you do just at the last minute. But nothing is lost yet. You all have heard of the turmoil and bickering going on inside the beltway. Initially, the White House made a proposal for changes in the tax laws that were one page Once the year is over, you (one side) long, then they cannot take too many came out, a few months later, actions that will help you with more details about that reduce taxes for 2017. initial proposal which was several pages; now they have the final bill on the floor. Rest assured that when/if the Congress (and eventually the regulators) will be done with it in the near future, it will likely be a thousand pages. I hear sound bites about how the new tax laws, in whatever shape and form they get passed, will help the middle class (we will not worry about the businesses right now). From what I have seen and heard that may not be the case. But it is not law yet; much water needs to flow over the dam and the fat lady has to sing. We will have to wait and see. It will be helpful if you would write/call/email/text/tweet to your congressman and the senators to let them know your feelings and thoughts. Do it as often as you can. Here is what is proposed for the middle class: Standard deduction for all will double. That is good news but that is about the only good news. Hidden in the footnotes they also say that the personal exemption that is allowed for every member of the family and the dependents will be taken away. In effect, especially for a large family, it more than neutralizes the effect of raising the standard deduction. Those taxpayers who itemize (schedule A) there is more bad news. There are five key sections for taking deductions namely, 1) medical expenses (over and above 10% of AGI), 2) taxes we pay (state, local, city, real estate, personal), 3) mortgage interest, 4) gifts to charity and 5) losses and miscellaneous deductions. Out of these, it seems that the proposal keeps only limited mortgage interest, some property taxes and gifts to charity, nothing else will be allowed. Reducing so much from the Itemized deduction form is a serious blow to the middle class and I have this feeling that the Saathee.com

Mo Vidwans

Vidwans is an independent, board certified financial planner. For details visit www.vidwansfinancial.com, call 984-888-0355 or write to mpvidwans@yahoo.com. 50

December 2017

IMMIGRATION ATTORNEY LAW OFFICES OF DAVID A. CONCHA

Laser & Skin

725 East Trade St., Suite 215 (Court Arcade Building)

Charlotte, NC 28202 Tel: 704-525-8824 Fax: 704-525-8820

Our goal is to provide you with the best laser hair removal experience... that’s the H2 difference. • Call or email us for a FREE CONSULTATION

IMMIGRATION SERVICES: -Residency (green cards) -Citizenship

• Faster treatments for men and women hair removal for all areas.

-Fiancé visas(K) -Labor Certification -H1-B L-1 O-1

- Removal & Deportation Defense

• Effective for all skin types - performed by a Registered Nurse (RN) / Advanced Laser Specialist

-General Immigration Matters

We can also serve your needs in the following areas:

• Virtually Pain Free – latest industry leading FDA approved system with minimal discomfort

Auto Accidents Workman’s Compensation DWI, Speeding Revoked License and Similiar Traffic Infractions and Simple Divorce

• Convenience – we also offer evening and weekend appointments.

980.213.6996

SERVING THE INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITY My parents are IMMIGRANTS therefore I can understand your situation. You will be treated with the utmost integrity and respect. Saturday and telephone consultations available

hetal.h2laser@gmail.com

www.h2laserandskin.com NEW LOCATION 8440 Rea Road, Suite N Charlotte, NC 28277

Member American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA)

TonyPatelRealty youR reputable realtor! Tony Patel Broker/Realtor NC/SC

704-661-9524

tonypatelrealtor@gmail.com

Best Buyers Reba te In Town! (must be appr

I have helped a lot of satisﬁed customers. I will work diligently with you through all the steps of the home buying process and all you have to do is choose the house!

oved by lende r & be on the HU D)

Buying or Selling a business? Call me for the best representation! Call me for short sale and foreclosure listings.

Saathee.com

Call me if you need to know what your home is worth, or a comparative market analysis of your neighborhood. 51

Call me for any real estate related services.

Experienced in Foreclosures, Short sales, HUD, and Fannie Mae homes. December 2017

Serving the Carolinas for over 10 Years.

Our mutual goals in buying / selling are getting the best price on most favorable terms & a smooth transaction.

Together we can achieve it!

Mobile: 704-236-7610 • Office: 704-814-6208 Fax: 704-845-1708 • rita.tyagi@allentate.com

Allen Tate Company • 101 E. Matthews St. • Suite 100 • Matthews, NC 28105

Rita Tyagi Broker / Realtor LICENSED IN NC & SC

We’re Growing!

Dr. William R. Mitchell welcomes Dr. Swetha Gujja to Southern Oncology Specialists.

I completed my medical school training in India. My husband's job brought me here to the United States and I did my residency and Hematology/Oncology fellowship in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Board certified in medical oncology, Dr.Swetha offers personalized and comprehensive cancer care, uptodate with modern and novel chemotherapy and immunotherapy options. She specializes in treating blood disorders including anemia, disorders of white blood cells, platelets, clotting and bleeding problems .

Fluent in Hindi and Telugu

Southernoncologync.com

Saathee.com

Lake Norman Area

University Area

10030 Gilead Road • Ste. 290 10320 Mallard Creek Rd. • Ste. 100 Charlotte, NC 28262 Huntersville, NC 28078 704.945.6843 704.947.5005 52

December 2017

test your

Knowledge Cities of India

The second most populous city in Andhra Pradesh.

Vijayawada sits on the banks of which river?

Vijayawada is a short distance from this de facto capital of Andhra Pradesh.

The language spoken in Vijayawada.

One of the most popular temples in Vijayawada.

These Buddhist caves carved in the 7th Century are near Vijayawada.

The famous cricket stadium of Vijayawada.

Vijayawada means…

The main bridge on the Krishna River near Vijayawada.

Answers: 1. Vijayawada 2. Krishna River 3. Telugu 4. Amaravati 5. Kanaka Durga Temple 6. Undavalli Caves 7. Indira Gandhi Stadium 8. “The Place of Victory” 9. Prakasam Barrage

Getting Great Results for you is my priority! • Buying • selling

• Investment Properties

• Commercial • Land deals

sekhar Battineni

D SO L

CMLS#3285934

Broker/Realtor NC, SC Dane Warren Real Estate

D SO L

704-737-5738

CMLS#3153612

battineni9@gmail.com

D SO L

up to 2.2% buyers rebate* * Lender approval required. Restrictions apply Saathee.com

CMLS#3276347 55

CMLS#3295003

D SO L

CMLS#3242720

D SO L

CMLS#3223865

December 2017

THINKING ABOUT THINKING By Balaji Prasad

you may begin to see that these are not quite the painful chores that you thought them to be. And, if you have someone sitting with you – an advocate – who thinks quite diﬀerently about these things, that person may be able to get you to see things a bit diﬀerently too. So some kind of a routine, and a committed coach, whether it is a parent or a professional coach can help you get to the right state of mind to tackle the SAT/ACT tests.

Is it Possible to enjoy the sat/aCt?

“I believe the right question to ask, respecting all ornament, is simply this; was it done with enjoyment, was the carver happy while he was about it?” ~ John Ruskin

Reading, writing and ‘Rithmetic – the 3 R’s – have been important for a long, long time. They still are. The fact that colleges select applicants based on the 3 R’s is a testament to this. The SAT and ACT tests, which are critical components of college admissions, are designed, explicitly, to test skills related to reading, writing and math. Colleges emphasize these skills because they consider these as core skills that drive performance, not only in college courses, but also in the careers that launch after college.

Building yourself for your future The importance of the 3 R’s goes beyond the typical justifications though. Anything that helps you understand the world better, think more logically, and respond more effectively makes for a more fruitful life. Reading enables you to learn things that you could not, otherwise; one cannot learn everything through personal experience alone. Mathematics enables rigorous ways of framing issues of importance in the real world, and provides the tools needed to analyze and reason through complexities that would otherwise be beyond us. And, writing is a form of expression that enables us not only to share what we know with others, but with our own selves. Writing is a form of feedback loop, enabling us to examine our own thoughts by forcing us to articulate them in a nuanced and disciplined manner. So, while test performance is important and can assist in getting admittance to colleges, it would be shortsighted to be driven purely by that. But it is a great “starter” motive: colleges demand it, and you have to do it. For better or for worse, colleges force some learning, via the SAT/ACT testing, which might not occur otherwise. Oh well! Sometimes we do things for the wrong reasons, but end up with the right results. We have to be careful not to get in the way though. We get the benefits only if we accept, without resistance, that which appears to be forced upon us.

Mindset-building comes before mind-building Motivation is a powerful force. Many things get done, if appropriately motivated. But it is often a challenge to ﬁnd the key to open the lock behind which motivation sits. This is especially true, when you have been conditioned to believe that what lies behind the door is an ugly monster that you will need to do battle with. Unfortunately, tests do not have a great reputation, and are often seen as monsters by those who are forced to grapple with them. That is an unfortunate illusion. Sometimes, the only way to overcome illusions is by confronting them. Monsters can be brought down to earth, and even seen to be gentler creatures than what you imagined them to be, once you take the time to get to know them. And therein lies the key. You have to take the time, and get your mind in the right place! Once you spend time with the SAT and ACT tests, Saathee.com

overcoming inertia comes before anything else Starting something that is stationary is not always easy. Whether it is mowing your lawn, developing your resume, or preparing for the SAT test, the first step can be excruciatingly hard. You just have to find a way to get started. Especially when you have a feeling that something is being forced upon you, you are likely to experience a force going in the wrong direction. If it is something you need to get done, you cannot afford to let that backward force play out. You need to counteract it with a force in the opposite direction so that the net force is in the forward direction. So how do you force yourself? Block time! Set aside a few hours every week at specific times, lock yourself in a room, and don’t allow yourself out until you have done what you need to do. Or, make a commitment to going somewhere else, say to a library, at those times. Or, to a coach. Things that have started can also be stopped. Unfortunately. Many people initiate efforts to stay fit, lose weight, or to wean away some addiction, only to find things coming to a grinding halt at some point. The start-stop-restart cycle repeats as you watch, almost helplessly. This kind of thing can happen as you prepare for a test like the SAT too. You might buy a book, even read some of it, do some self-tests, and then let things languish, because the motivation and adrenaline are not quite up to the task. So we have to do more than get started; we have to keep the engine running. Establishing a fixed routine, and having someone keep you on track is important. Once again, a parent or a coach can help with this.

achieving escape velocity … to enjoyment Faith and hope can take you only so far, which is what routines are about. We need to see results at some point. That is the feedback that tells us that our efforts are not in vain. Tests are quite good at providing such feedback. If you find that you are able to perform better on each new test, that is motivating. And, if you notice yourself approaching problems in ways that you didn’t use to before, that is a kind of self-reflective feedback indicating self-development. Finally, if you find yourself starting to enjoy the process of developing your abilities in the 3 R’s, you have arrived! The wheel now spins on its own, without the need for external people, routines and techniques. Everything said here is applicable to other pursuits as well. The SAT/ACT tests are just an example of how we can reposition things that are sometimes forced upon us, and use them to build capability, and even to find enjoyment in. After all, isn’t enjoyment the important thing in life?

Balaji Prasad

is an IIT/IIM graduate, a published author, SAT/ACT Online and Offline Coach, interview, resume, and career coach at NewCranium. Contact: 704.746.9779 balaji.prasad@newcranium.com

December 2017

SEPA Consulting Kirti H. Shah, CPA Certified Public Accountant

Offering premier accounting, tax, and consulting services in Charlotte, North Carolina since 2001

PMP EXAM PREP BOOT CAMP SATURDAYS AND SUNDAYS DECEMBER 9, 10, 16, 17 – 2017 8 AM – 5 PM

• Year-round accounting and bookkeeping services • Quarterly and yearly payroll and tax services • Tax preparation / planning for individuals & businesses • Compilation, review, and audit of financial statements • Assistance in new business setup

This course is designed for project managers who are seeking their PMP® (Project Management Professional) certification through PMI® (Project Management Institute). 4-day classroom training by experienced instructor (Success rate of 98.7%)

Special offer: $745/Per participant Regular Price: $1,495 (Receive 10% early registration discount, if enrolled by 11/10/17)

The “SAFe Scrum Master” Course (SSM) SATURDAY AND SUNDAY DECEMBER 16-17, 2017 8 AM – 5 PM

Fax: 704.588.0022 kirtihshahcpa@bellsouth.net www.sepaconsultings.com 10960 Winds Crossing Drive Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28273

Ttravel Guru

Welcome To The Wonderful World Of Travel At

Agile skill is in great demand. Take advantage of this upcoming opportunity to learn more about the methodology and how to address struggling agile projects.

Special offer: $749/Per participant Regular Price: $1,195 (Receive 10% early registration discount, if enrolled by 11/10/17) ● Classes at Signture Consultants in Uptown-Charlotte

Consolidated Fares On Major Airlines Asia, Africa, Middle East, Europe and more. Tour Packages and Cruises Taj & other Customized Tours Within Europe

To register visit: www.mti-pm.com ● Classes being scheduled for Raleigh & Greensboro please Yassin Chickha contact Yassin.

ychickha@mti-pm.com 704-277-3548

704.588.0011

● Onsite Training available, please contact Yassin.

Shakoon Panjwani: 704-542-5315

Full Time Real Estate Services

Fax: 704-841-0748 E-mail: ttravelguru@hotmail.com 8714 Darcy Hopkins Dr. Charlotte, NC 28277

OVER 15 YEARS OF PROJECT MANAGEMENT TRAINING EXPERIENCE

RESIDENTIAL - COMMERCIAL - LAND WE ARE SELLING OUR LISTINGS QUICKLY, AND ARE IN NEED OF MORE NEW LISTINGS. PLEASE CALL IF YOU ARE THINKING OF SELLING

Knowledge & Experience Professional Service Multi million dollar producer!

ATUL PATHAK

I will help you find Your Dream Home or Business at the Best Location and the Best Price.

704-649-9095

REALTOR / BROKER (NC)

AtulPathakRealty.com

atulpathakrealtor@gmail.com

WE ARE APPROVED BROKER FOR HUD AND ALL MAJOR REAL ESTATE AUCTION COMPANIES Saathee.com

loopnet.com/Profile/18191522980/ATUL-PATHAK/ 57

December 2017

Merry Christmas!

Catering Available Call for details.

Pure Vegetarian Indian Cuisine

A wide range of South Indian, North Indian, Indo Chinese, Chaats, Jain, and more

Tel: 704-569-9193 · Fax: 704-569-9188 7128-A Albemarle Rd. Charlotte, NC 28227

Organic, Gluten Free & Vegan Menu available

Never frozen • No preservatives No artificial additives • Zero Transfat

www.woodlandsusa.com

Visit our website for the menu, coupons, directions etc.

Open 6 Days A Week: Lunch: 11:30 am to 3 pm (Closed on Tuesday) Dinner: 5 pm to 10 pm

Creative Loafing 2016 Reader's Choice - Best Indian

Talk of the Town 2012 “Excellence in Customer Satisfaction”

Taste Of Charlotte 2013 Winner “Most Unique Taste”

Citysearch.com 2009 Winner Best Indian Restaurant

Taste Of Charlotte 2012 Winner “Best Appetizer” ZAGAT RATED

Woodlands Specials

Weekday Special Lunch Menu Monday to Friday Wine & Beer (Including Indian Beer)

If you are thinking about selling your home, please contact me for a

FREE Market Report Analysis.

Full Time RealtorÂŽ Helping Buyers & Sellers

Brijal Shah

Multi-million dollar producer

The Redbud Group

Over 12 years of local experience in NC & SC

Realtor/Broker Keller Williams South Park

Certified Military Residential Specialist Licensed in NC & SC

The Proof is in Our Numbers

Extensive knowledge of new construction communities and builders

Cell: 704-281-8711 Email: brijal@kw.com Website:

brijalshah.redbudcharlotte.com

Each Keller Williams franchise is independently owned & operated.

Puja Boutique Dresses

Starting from

Happy

$75

Holidays!

Kurtis $30

Inside AROUND THE WORLD MARKET

An Exclusive Designer Collection

6514 N. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28213

facebook.com/pujaboutiquecharlotte

Designer Sarees & Dresses Bridal Collection Kurtis & Leggings BIG Collection of Chaniya Choli Fashion Jewelry Ready-made Blouses Lehenga Choliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kids 5-15 collection!!

Purvi Prathmesh Shah

Hours:

980-430-5859 704-340-4361

Monday: Closed Tues -Thurs: 1pm to 7 pm Fri - Sat: 12 pm to 8 pm Sunday: 12 pm to 7 pm

Alterations/Stitching Saathee.com

Select

December 2017

COLLEGE ADMISSIONS INSIDER By Kristen Moon

• Also, don’t “do nothing and wait.” That is not the correct answer either.

three Ways LinkedIn Provides students an edge in the College admissions Process

The numbers don’t lie; more than 60,000 college and university alumni groups are active on LinkedIn, making it a valuable resource for college-bound students. Yet, most high school students I work with do not have a LinkedIn proﬁle. Many believe that LinkedIn is only for job seekers and business professionals. Below I have debunked that myth and highlighted a few ways LinkedIn provides students with an edge in the competitive college admissions process.

# 1: Learn more about your target schools through university Pages University Pages is a LinkedIn blog which contains a wealth of information. Students can join the conversation and engage with the campus community, admission oﬃcers, and alumni. Stay up-to-date on campus news, activities, and events for all your target schools. Interested in a university in England? Start by searching for schools in London. Then, connect with current students and get their viewpoints on the college. Students can explore the career paths of graduates and connect with alumni in their chosen major.

The first thing to do when you receive the disappointing news that you have been deferred is to take some time and think. Yes, think long and hard. Think if anything has changed since you first applied early admission to your “dream school”. Is this still your top choice? Is another university looking like a better fit for you now? It is important to be honest with yourself at this point. If you are second guessing your initial decision and feel like another university might now be a better fit, then a deferral that allows you escape the binding early decision might actually be a positive. It will open up your options to attend another university, possibly one with a better financial aid package offered. If you truly feel like the deferred college is still your top choice, then a set of steps must be followed. The first step is to craft a “Betterment Letter”. A Betterment Letter tells the university how you are a better candidate now vs. when you first applied. When you applied for early admission you were deferred because you were not a strong enough candidate. Plain and simple. Now we need to express how you have become “better”. This letter should be a one-pager and compelling.

Let’s break it down: # 2: Connect with alumni • You are still very interested in attending, and this university What’s it like to live on campus? Do most students study is still your top choice. If accepted, you will certainly abroad? Which professor is your favorite? These questions and attend. (Don’t say this unless you truly mean it.) Be direct many others can be answered by an informal alumni interview. and be clear with your message! LinkedIn hosts thousands of university alumni groups. Students can connect with alumni and ask a variety of questions • Elaborate on the awesome things you have accomplished that will help determine if a university is a good fit. Typically, since you applied. Discuss the accomplishments or alumni are more than happy to help potential students. accolades you’ve received in recent months. Have your grades improved? Are you working on a challenging # 3: Better than a resume school project? Did you win the speech and debate A LinkedIn page is more personal than a resume. Think of tournament? Did you secure a job-shadowing position? it as making your one-page resume come to life and Make your candidate profile stronger. Mention something highlighting who you are as an individual. Do you play the you are currently doing that the admissions staff does not violin? Why not post a video of one of your performances? Are already know about. you a soccer player? Post a video of your winning goal. Take • Reiterate why this college is a perfect fit for you, and what your time and make your LinkedIn page personal, and you will add to the campus community. This section highlight your goals, accomplishments, and why a university should be brief. Do not reiterate items you have already would be happy to have you as one of their students. mentioned in your personal statement/essay. Be specific! you Have Been deferred - now What?

Deferred: the limbo of college admissions. You are not accepted, but you were not rejected either. A deferred applicant was not a strong enough contender to be accepted during early admission, so now they are in the regular admission pool with the masses. So, now what?

Let’s start by telling you what not to do: • Do not call the admissions oﬃce and ask “what can I do to strengthen my application?” • Please, don’t have your parents call either! Yikes. Do you really think the admission oﬃcers want to speak to all candidates who have been deferred? Nope. Saathee.com

An ordinary, boring Betterment Letter will not do. It needs to be compelling. When we say compelling, we mean it! It must discuss something new. There is no point in repeating what the admissions oﬃce already knows. E-mail the letter to the admissions representative listed for your state or region. Also send a copy via snail mail, but do so promptly; time is of the essence. The letter needs to be sent right away.

Kristen Moon

is an independent college counselor and founder of MoonPrep.com. She specializes in Ivy League, BS/MD Programs, and International Students. She works with students 9-12th grade. kristen@moonprep.com December 2017

SANGEET Popular Music of India By Kirit Shukla

courage, in times of joy and sorrows, I want to keep you with me, you have to be with me and in my world of emotions too. Somewhere I find your souvenir that I have to show to everyone. You know that even after dying, I know how to remain faithful. Do all that you’ve said. I roamed the whole world but I couldn’t find anyone like you…

tribute to Living Legends of Bollywood neha Bhasin (1982 – Present)

Bhasin is a television anchor, lyricist, singer Lyrics in Hindi: and a pop music star. She infuses her moods and views on life into her lyrics. Bhasin has performed around world as well as released albums in multiple languages. She has had classical dance and vocal training and remains active in the music and ﬁlm world. She was born on November 18, 1982, in New Delhi and married her friend from her teen years, Samir Uddin.

awards: Best playback female singer Mere brother ki dulhan, Sultan

The lyrics to her award winning song “Jag Ghoomeyā” are given on this page.

evergreen and Classic Lyrics ni main kamli kamli

Note: The contents of this article are compiled from the news, books, internet and my knowledge and love for Indian music.

Song: Jag Ghoomeyā ... Film: Sultan Year: 2016 Music: Vishal Shekhar Singer: Neha Bhasin Lyricist: : Irshad Kamil Based on Indian Classical Rāgā: Mishra Brindāvani Sārang Tāl/Rhythm: Kaharva Starring: Salman Khan, Anushkā Sharma , Randeep Hoodā

Note: Beginning with the upcoming January issue, I will feature two songs, one classic and one contemporary in the Sangeet column. I won’t cover the brief bio of singers or directors and the meaning (summary) will be deleted. This will simplify the column and I can feature more songs. I welcome your comments for this column. You can write to me at the email address below. -- Kirit Shukla

Lyrics in english: O, Nā woh akhiyān ruhāni kahin, nā woh chehrā noorāni kahinKahin dil wāli bātein bhi nā, wo sajri jawāni kahin Jag ghoomeyā thāre jaisā nā koi - 2 Nā toh hansnā rumāni kahin, nā toh khusboo suhāni kahinNā woh rangli adāyein dekhin, nā to pyāri si nādāni kahinJaisā tu hai waisā rehnā, Jag ghoomeyā thāre jaisā nā koi - 4 Apne naseebon mein yā, honsle ki bāton mein,Sukhon aur dukhon wāli, sāri saugāton mein, Sang tujhe rakhnā hai, sang tujhe rakhnā haiTere sang rehnā, meri duniyā mein bhiMere jazbāton mein, teri milti nishāni kahinJo hai sabko dikhāni kahin, main to jānti hai marke bhiTujhe āti hai nibhāni kahin, Woh hi karna hai jo mai kehnā Jag ghoomeyā thāre jaisa nā koi - 4

Kirit Shukla

Contact him at kiritsshukla@hotmail.com

Vyas Travels Deal With Someone You Trust!

or pF Re RS s a OU lin aro S T l C IN G a i K fic Of OX & C

Meaning (summary):

I didn’t find those soulful eyes anywhere, I didn’t find that illuminated face anywhere. Neither I found those heartfelt talks nor that beautiful youth anywhere. I roamed the whole world but no one is like you. I didn’t find that romantic smile anywhere and pleasing fragrance anywhere. There is no such colorful style/grace anywhere. There is no lovely innocence anywhere. Always remain as you are… I roamed the whole world but I couldn’t find anyone like you. In my destiny or in the talks of Saathee.com

• Tours, Cruises & More • Rates from India Available • Great Service and Rates • ARC & IATAN approved agency • Tours to Europe, India, Asia, & United States.

3322 Daniel Place Dr., Charlotte NC 28213 e-mail: vyastrav@gmail.com

704.569.8220 or 704.724.5981 Ahmadabad Office: Vyas Travels Devashish, Near Klassic Gold Hotel Navrangpura, Ahmadabad Phone: 26561422, 26444422 62

December 2017

POWERFUL Residential Range Hood

Filter Free • Aroma Free • Detergent Free

One Touch Dual Dense Steam and Hot Water Self-Clean

Engineered For Maximum Power Noise Reduced for Comfort Enjoyment Effective powerful twin centrifugal rotary fans captured grease Smoke and aroma ducted out of house Super easy clean removable grease receptacle Protect your pricey kitchen cabinets and increase home value

WIDE SELECTION of MUSIC HINDI ♦ TAMIL ♦ TELUGU ♦ BHANGRA ♦ HIP HOP DANCE ♦ POP ♦ 70’S, 80’S & 90’S

ANNIVERSARIES, BIRTHDAYS, BRIDAL SHOWERS, BABY SHOWERS, CORPORATE EVENTS, HOUSE PARTIES, WEDDINGS OR RECEPTIONS

Contact DJ Lalit:

704-299-3610

djlalit.clt@gmail.com

S AT I S FA C T I O N G U A R A N T E E D ! For Product Information:www.accelaRH.com

STATE OF THE ART

Distribution: 919-238-3689 For Purchase at:

SOUND SYSTEM AND LIGHTING

Grand Asia Market 1253 Buck Jones Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606

ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Indu Convenient Store 4925 W. Market St. (Ste 1104), Greensboro, NC 27407

Today Asia Market 1207 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC 27511 Charlotte: 704-940-2819

Law Offices of

MRUGES H S . PAT EL

Member of American Immigration Lawyers Association

888-549-0030

Serving your immigration needs in

North & South Carolina. Call for consultation!

Family Petition Fiance Visa H-1, L-1, & Student Visa Visitor Visa Labor Certification

Citizenship Removal/Deportation Re-entry Permit Adoption Consular Processing

Practice in NC & SC limited to immigration only. Licensed in New Jersey. Saathee.com

December 2017

HINDU CENTER Support Hindu Center Expansion

Leave a Lasting Memory on HC Wall.

Sponsor a BRICK $1001 $5,001 for 5 X 7 Marble Plaque $10,001 for 8 X 11 Marble plaque Expansion project update:

Grading, Parking Lot and foundation completed. Building work in progress, stone work 90% complete and outside stonework started!!

2017 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

Annual Membership: $101, Students & Seniors $31 Donate Brick and Become life member for $1001!

Upcoming Hindu Center Events & Activities: Election Day / General Body meeting: December 3 (Sun) Balaji Anniversary: December 16 (Sat) Vaikuntha Ekadasi: December 29 (Fri) New Years Celebrations: January 1 (Mon) Pongal / Makar Sankranti: January 14 (Sun) Republic Day: January 27 (Sat) Maha-Shivratri: February 24 (Fri) Holika Dahan: March 1 (Thurs)

HINDU CENTER OF CHARLOTTE

7400 City View Drive, Charlotte, NC 28212 Ph. 704.535.3440 Fax. 704.535.6923 email: administrator@hcclt.org

OF CHARLOTTE New Year Celebrations Monday, January 1st, 2018

Lord Balaji's Archnas all day (8:30am to 9pm) Vishnu Sahastranama Archana & chanting (3-5 pm)

Sankranti/ Lohri/ Pongal "Day of Goodwill and friendship event"

Puja: Sun, January 14, 2018 (5 pm)

Abhishek/ Pooja with Bhajan/Shlokas. Followed by Kari/Bhogi Pallu & Mahaprasad

Kari/Bhogi Pallu: Parents/ Grandparents will Bless & Shower their kids with fruits, candies, coins, Cranberries etc., supplied by Hindu Center. Please bring kids and don't miss this unique event. Dress up in Indian tradition outfits if possible.

Kite flying - Sun, January 14, Noon to 5 pm Weather permitting call Nirav Pandya 570-205-2636 for details.

REPUBLIC DAY CELEBRATIONS: Saturday, January 27th

Gandhi Bhavan @ Hindu Center

Flag hoisting, National Anthem, Cultural Show & Lunch For more information contact: anu Shenoy, Rituben Mukherjee, Anitha Gautam, Hemant amin, Reena Roy 607-607-8412 or temple 704-535-3440.

MAHA-SHIVRATRI February 13, 2018 (Tuesday)

Lord Shiva Abhishekham all day Maha Shivaratri will be celebrated by performing Pooja all night long including Rudhrabhishekham.

Evening Puja Abhishek, Bhajans, Aarti and Prasad

HINDU CENTER New Vedanta Bhavan

OF CHARLOTTE

December 29, 2017

Hindu Center Celebrating Vaikunta Eka Dasi on Temple will be opened in the morning at 6am

Morning start 6 am Suprabatham, Nitya Puja, Dawa Puja Followed by opening of Vaikunta Dwaram Evening 8:45pm Vishnu Sahastranama Parayanam, Followed by Sayanotsavam and Lalli songs to Lord. (Local devotees will sing songs for Lord)

For more details talk to Hindu center Priests 704-535-3440 Lakshmikanth Bhattar 980-254-1022 Balaji Bhattar 704-906-2109 Vijay Raghava Bhattar 803-470-8377

Lord Venkateshwara Anniversary

Saturday, December 16, 2017, 9am with Suprabhatam

NUTRITION FOR LIFE By Parul Kharod

Risk Factors for cancer (in alphabetical order): Several studies have shown a direct link between these risk factors and increased prevalence of cancer. • Alcohol • Animal protein • Chemicals/Toxins • Fat • Sugar • Tobacco

Cancer: Prevention and survival

According to the World Health Organization, four noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – cancers, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases and diabetes – are responsible for 80% of all deaths from NCDs worldwide. There were an estimated 14.1 million cancer cases around the world in 2012, of these 7.4 million cases were in men and 6.7 million in women. This number is expected to increase to 24 million by 2035.

Foods that fight cancer: The foods that are high in fiber, low in fat, and have high amounts of anti-oxidant and phytochemical compounds are best for cancer prevention: • Beans (legumes) • Berries • Cruciferous Vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts) • Dark Green Leafy Vegetables • Yellow and Orange Fruits/Veg. • Flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts • Ginger and Garlic • Grapes • Green Tea • Soy • Tomatoes • Whole Grains

What is cancer? Cancer begins as a single abnormal cell that begins to multiply out of control. Groups of such cells form tumors and invade healthy tissue, often spreading to other parts of Asian Americans the body. Carcinogens are experience proportionally substances that promote the higher rates of cancers from development of cancerous infectious origin, such as liver cells. They may come from foods, from the air, or even cancer, cervical cancer, and from within the body. Most stomach cancer. carcinogens are neutralized before damage can occur, but sometimes they attack the cell’s genetic material (DNA) and alter it. It takes years for a noticeable tumor to develop. During this time, compounds known as inhibitors can keep the cells from growing, while there are other factors that may actually promote the growth of tumors. For a majority of the population, heart disease still remains the number one cause of death. However, uniquely for Asian Americans in the US, cancer is found to be the leading cause. Asian Americans experience proportionally higher rates of cancers from infectious origin, such as liver cancer, cervical cancer, and stomach cancer. In addition, Asian Americans increasingly are acquiring cancers associated with migration to the United States and “Westernization” such as those attributed to diet and sedentary living. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), 50% of the most common cancers can be prevented. AICR estimates that these common cancers could be prevented if we moved more, weighed less and ate more healthfully.

Recommendations for Cancer Prevention: According to a published research report by AICR and the World Cancer Research Fund, here are ten recommendations for cancer prevention.

1. Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight. 2. Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day. Limit sedentary habits. 3. Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy-dense foods. 4. Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans. 5. Limit consumption of animal proteins; avoid red meats (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoid all processed meats. Limit dairy. 6. Avoid or at least limit alcohol. 7. Limit consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt (sodium). 8. Don’t use supplements to protect against cancer. 9. Get proper vaccinations 10. Do not smoke or chew tobacco.

aICR’s three Main strategies for Cancer Prevention: 1. Eat mostly plant-based foods, which are low in energy density 2. Be physically active 3. Maintain a healthy weight (which may be possible by following the previous two strategies)

The link between diet and cancer is not new. In January of 1892, Scientiﬁc American printed the observation that “cancer is most frequent among those branches of the human race where carnivorous habits prevail.” Numerous research studies have since shown that cancer is much more common in populations consuming diets rich in fatty foods, particularly meat, and much less common in countries with diets rich in grains, vegetables, and fruits. Saathee.com

continued on page 116

Parul Kharod, MS, RD, LDN

is a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist and works as a Clinical Dietitian with Outpatient Nutrition Services at WakeMed Hospital in Cary and Raleigh. She can be reached at parulkharod@gmail.com 68

December 2017

CHAMPA PATEL REALTY Helping our community is my

COMMITMENT

Our Services

Comprehensive Exams Gentle, Thorough Hygiene Visits Periodontal Therapy Restorative and Cosmetic Treatment Dental Implant Restorations Root Canal Therapy Tooth Extractions

Free

Let me guide you with NEW and RESALE Homes.

Consultations

Champa Patel Broker/Realtor

704-562-7710 ohm7710@gmail.com

MOST LOCAL INSURANCES ACCEPTED

704-542-9923 16615 Riverstone Way, Suite 200 Charlotte, NC 28277 Our office is located in South Charlotte off Highway 521, at the intersection of Ardrey Kell Rd. & Marvin Rd., in the new Cedar Walk development.

now Hiring new agents

For All Your Real Estate Needs

Madhu Kanthamneni Provisional Broker NC 803.397.9985

We understand that buying or selling a home is more than just a transaction: it’s a lifechanging experience. That’s why our team of highly-seasoned real estate professionals is dedicated to providing exceptional, personalized service for all of our clients. We take great pride in the relationships we build and always work relentlessly on the client’s behalf to help them achieve their real estate goals.

Nilay Naik Real Estate Agent SC 704.837.0012

Dipakkumar Patel Broker-Realtor® NC 704.941.0694

nilay.realtor@gmail.com

dipak.patel@ramrealtync.com

Pramod Hole Broker-Realtor NC/SC 980.272.7283

Minesh Patel Broker-Realtor® NC/SC 803.463.7536

realtorpramod@gmail.com

patel@ramrealtync.com

Saathee.com

realtormadhuk@gmail.com

Ram Kalagara BIC-Realtor® NC/SC info@ramrealtync.com

RamRealtyNC.com

Buyer Rebate up to 2%

704.620.8208

December 2017

NEWS NOTES Secretary Tillerson Visits India

Improved Security Procedures for Refugees Entering

Secretary Tillerson visited India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan in the United States late October to solidify the Trump administration’s South Asia In late October President Trump announced the strategy. Photos courtesy of Dept. of State implementation of improved security procedures for refugees entering the United States. These new measures are part of the administration’s eﬀort to raise national security standards for all persons traveling to the United States, and they are designed to intensify screening in order to keep nefarious and fraudulent actors from exploiting the refugee process to enter the United States. “The security of the American people is this administration’s highest priority, and these improved vetting measures are essential for American security,” said Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Duke. “These new, standardized screening measures provide an opportunity for the United States to welcome those in need into our country, while ensuring a safer, more secure homeland.” U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson meets Indian Prime Minister Narendra In accordance with section 6(a) of Executive Order 13780, Modi at the Prime Minister’s House in New Delhi, India on October 25, 2017. the United States government, including the Departments of State (State) and Homeland Security (DHS), in consultation with the Oﬃce of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), conducted a review of the United States Refugee Admissions Program application and adjudication process. The goal of this review was to determine what additional procedures should be used to ensure that individuals seeking admission as refugees do not pose a threat to the security and welfare of the United States.

U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson pays respects to Mahatma Gandhi at Gandhi Smriti in New Delhi, India October 25, 2017.

As a result of this review, the United States government is implementing program enhancements to raise the bar for vetting and screening procedures, including but not limited to: increased data collection to more thoroughly investigate U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson holds a Joint Press Availability with Indian applicants, better information sharing between agencies to Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj at the Ministry of External Affairs identify threat actors, and new training procedures to in New Delhi, India on October 25, 2017. strengthen screener ability to detect fraud and deception. These measures are an additional layer of security for the American people and are based in part on evaluated intelligence and identified gaps in screening and vetting operations. Following the implementation of these improved measures, the administration will recommence refugee resettlement processing. While DHS, State, and ODNI have jointly determined that the new measures are adequate to resume refugee admissions, they have also concluded that additional in-depth review is needed with respect to refugees from 11 countries previously identified as posing a higher risk to the United States. U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson chats with Pakistani Prime Minister Consequently, admissions for applicants from those 11 highShahid Khaqan Abbasi before their meeting in Islamabad on October 24, 2017. Saathee.com

December 2017

T H R E E

L O C A T I O N S

All Of Us at Aroma Want to Wish You a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Three Convenient Locations Opposite of Concord Mills Mall 8455 Pit Stop Court Suite 150 Concord, NC 28027 704-979-8533 www.aromainconcord.com

Transamerica Building Uptown Charlotte 401 N Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28202 704-919-0502

Three Wells Fargo Center Uptown Charlotte 401 S Tryon Street Charlotte, NC 28202 704-919-0502

risk countries will move forward on a case-by-case basis during an additional 90-day review period, consistent with our national security interests. As DHS, State and DNI complete individual country reviews, they may resume a standard admissions process for applicants from those countries. The United States government will continue to work closely with law enforcement and the intelligence community, and these enhancements will be evaluated on an ongoing basis to determine whether any further measures are needed to safeguard our homeland. More information can be found here. https://www.dhs.gov/publication/resuming-united-statesrefugee-admissions-program-enhanced-vetting-capabilities

Pakistan, which implemented four reforms in the past year, also made it easier to register a new business, transfer commercial property and facilitate cross border trade. Bhutan, the region’s top-ranked economy, also implemented four reforms to make it easier to register a new business, improve access to credit, and enhance the enforcement of contracts, while Sri Lanka has progressed in making exporting and importing easier by initiating a customs single window. No reforms were recorded in Bangladesh or Afghanistan where, instead, Starting a Business was made more costly. Afghanistan also imposes an additional procedure for women to register a business. The region’s top ranked economies are Bhutan, in 75th place, India (100), and Nepal (105). The region’s economies perform well in the Doing Business South Asian Economies Adopt Record Number of areas of Protecting Minority Investors and Staring a Business. Business Reforms in Past Year: Doing Business Registering a new business, for example, takes on average 15.5 South Asian economies carried out a record 20 business days, which is faster than the current global average of 20 days, reforms in the past year, bringing to a total of 127 the number and a signiﬁcant improvement over the 50 days it took to start a business in the region 15 years ago. The region lags in areas such as Registering Property and Resolving Insolvency. It takes on average 112 days to register property in South Asia, compared with the global average of 49.5 days. And, creditors for Resolving Insolvency recover about one-third of the property value, which is less than half of the recovery rate of 71.2 percent in OECD high-income economies. Highlights of the region’s successes over the past 15 years include:

• Since the start of Doing Business, all eight regional economies have carried out a total of 127 reforms. Starting a Business, with 25 reforms, was the leading indicator for regional reforms.

• Fifteen years ago, it cost over 40 percent of the value of a claim to enforce a contract in the region; now, it takes less than 30 of reforms enacted in the region over the past 15 years, says the percent, which is better than the global average of 33 percent. World Bank Group’s Doing Business report, which monitors the Bhutan has made the largest improvement in this area. ease of doing business for small and medium enterprises Fifteen years ago, it cost 90 percent of the value of a claim to around the world. enforce a contract in Bhutan; now, it takes 23 percent, placing India implemented eight of the past year’s reforms, a record the country in the top 25 globally in this area. for the country in a single year. This earned India a spot among this year’s global top improvers, says Doing Business 2018: • India has carried out the most reforms in the region in the Reforming to Create Jobs, the 15th annual edition in the report past 15 years, with 37 reforms, followed by Sri Lanka (22) series, which was released late October. and Pakistan (19). A major focus of reforms in the past year were in the area of Protecting Minority Investors, with half of the region’s eight - Courtesy of the World Bank. www.worldbank.org economies implementing measures to strengthen protections The full report and its datasets are available at www.doingbusiness.org for minority shareholders. The reforms included enhanced remedies to address cases of prejudicial transactions between interested parties in India; rules to clarify ownership and control structures in Bhutan; greater corporate transparency in R & PALMIST SINCE ROLOGE 1975 Nepal; and facilitating legal action against directors in case of T S A prejudicial transactions with interested parties in Pakistan. “With three-quarters of regional economies making positive reforms, it’s no surprise that this is a record year for regional reforms. India, as the largest economy in the region, is leading by example with its eight reforms,” said Rita Ramalho, Acting Director of the World Bank’s Global Indicators Group, which produces the report. Other reforms in India also included the creation of an online single window system to enhance the process of Dealing with Construction Permits; consolidating forms for Starting a Business; and reducing paperwork for Paying Taxes; and E M A I L: d introduction of new insolvency and bankruptcy code to make avedevendra1@gmail.com Resolving Insolvency easier.

Devendra Dave (Bholabhai) Kundli/Match Making, Job, Business, any problem

Call: 404-934-8337

Saathee.com

December 2017

B IG GES T IND IA N RES TAU RA NT IN NORTH C HA RL OTTE

Happys! Holiday

GODAVARI - SOUTH INDIAN RESTAURANT IS

Open 7 Days a Week!

Vegetarian, Non-Veg (Halal), Catering, Full Bar & Party Hall Lunch Buffet:

Mon-Fri: 11:30 am to 2:30 pm Sat & Sun: Noon - 3:30 pm (includes live Dosa)

Dinner:

Sun-Thurs: 5:30 pm to 10 pm Fri & Sat: 5:30 pm to 10:30 pm

CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS & EVENTS

PARTY HALL* FOR ALL EVENTS FOR UP TO 150 PEOPLE *Conditions Apply. Call for details.

GODAVARI

ONLY ONE CHARLOTTE LOCATION! 520 University Center Blvd, Charlotte, NC 28262 704-910-1024 â&#x20AC;¢ Facebook.com/GodavariCharlotte

YOUTH CORNER Word World

2. Music directors of 2016 Hindi film ‘Sultan’? (a) Sachin Jigar (b) Salim Sulaiman (c) Sajid Wajid (d) Vishal Shekhar

By Kirit Shukla

3. The fastest fish in the world is (a) Black Marlin (b) Blue Shark (c) Sword fish (d) Wahoo

4. The construction of the Taj Mahal in India was completed in the year (a) 1673 (b) 1663 (c) 1653 (d) 1643

5. What percentage (%) of the atmosphere is made up of oxygen (a) 78% (b) 21% (c) 0.8% (d) 0.2%

Make words using 4 or more letters. The central letter must be used in each word. Letters cannot be used more than once per word. Use all letters for the subject word (underlined in solutions below) 16+ words = Excellent; 10 to 15 words = Good; 9 or less = keep looking. Words we found are in solutions below.

6. The city at intersection of National Hwys 6 and 7 in India is (a) Hyderabad (b) Raipur (c) Jabalpur (d) Nagpur

7. How long does it take to cut a ribbon 121 ft. long to cut each piece 1 ft. long? It takes 1 second/cut. (a) 1 Minute (b) 121 Seconds (c) 2 Minutes (d) None of above

Brain train

Hi Kids. Here is a quiz. See if you can solve it.

Note: The words in column 4 are opposite words of column 2 , but they are not in the same order or numerical sequence. (a) First, unscramble the letters in the column 1. and write the word in column 2. Similarly, unscramble the letters in the column 3. & write the word in the column 4. (b) Now, match the words in the column 2, with the opposite words in the column 4.

8. Oncology is the science that deals with (a) Hair (b) Speech (c) Colon (d) Cancer

9. The animal most mentioned in the Bible (Old & New Testaments) is (a) The sheep (b) The camel (c) The horse (d) The Donkey 10. The Atomic Number of silver (Symbol: Ag) is (a) 44 (b) 45 (c) 46 (d) 47

Answers are below. No Peeking.

Scholar: All correct; 1st Class: 9 Correct; 2nd Class: 8 Correct; 3rd Class: 7 Correct; Need to improve: 6 or less

Answer for brain train: Answers: (a) Column 2. Column 4. 1. BOY 1. SLAVERY 2. TRUE 2. REFUSE 3. BLACK 3. EASY 4. SILENT 4. SKEW 5. FREEDOM 5. WHITE 6. DIFFICULT 6. DIFFER 7. ACCEPT 7. SOFT 8. PARALLEL 8. FALSE 9. HARD 9. NOISY 10. AGREE 10. GIRL Answers: (b) 1=10. 2=8, 3=5, 4=9, 5=1, 6=3, 7=2, 8=4, 9=7, 10=6

6. d

Word World (Solution): ACME, ACRE, AMICE, AMIR, ARIEL, ARIL, CALM, CAME, CAMEL, CARE, CERIA, CLAIM, CLAM, CLEAR, CRAM, CREAM, EARL, EMAIL, ILEAC, LACE, LAIC, LAIR, LAME, LARI, LIAR, LIMA, LIRA, MACE, MACLE, MAIL, MALE, MALICE, MARC, MARE, MEAL, MICA, MIRACLE, RACE, RAIL, RALE, REAL, REALM, REAM, RECLAIM, RIAL

5. b

Saathee.com

4. c

1. Arrange these North Carolina lakes from East to West. (a) Fontana (b) Norman (c) Lure (d) Jordan

3. a

Who wants to be a scholar?! Answer the ones you know and research to answer the rest. There is only one correct answer.

Scholar Answers: 1. d, b, c, a. 2. d 7. c 8. d 9. a 10. d

The answers given on the bottom of this page (no peeking).

December 2017

sJ Iyer Realty

PH: 980.938.9893

Closer to Home

Raj’s THE ART OF LIFE

Photography ALSO WE DO DRONE VIDEO SHOOTING

sridhar Janakiraman

& FILM PHOTOGRAPHY

Broker in NC/SC

Sridhar@sjiyerrealty.com

704.839.1265 (Cell) / 704.771.1811 (Fax) 3202 Hartford Way • Matthews, NC 28104

SJiyerrealty.com *REBATE*

www.icapturememory.com

up to

Towards closing or price reduction. Buyers responsibility to get lender permission.

Come and Enjoy

DOSA NIGHT EVERY TUESDAY $11.99 • $5.99 {Adults}

{Kids}

AUTHENTIC INDIAN RESTAURANT

UNLIMITED DOSAS AND WIDE VARIETIES

OFFICE / PARTY ORDERS ARE WELCOME!

LUNCH BUFFET 6 DAYS A WEEK! Tues - Fri: 11:30am to 2:30am

Family Pack Chicken Dum Biryani

Family Pack Goat Dum Biryani

$29.99

$35.99

WEEKEND SPECIAL LUNCH BUFFET

Student, Group & Catering Discounts Available

Sat - Sun: 12:00pm to 3:00pm

Catering & Carry-Out Available, Call for Details

980-999-0789

DINNER HOURS Tues - Thurs: 5:30pm to 10:00pm Friday - Sat: 5:30pm to 10:30pm Monday - Closed Saathee.com

9609 N. Tryon St. Unit-I, Charlotte, NC 28262

SitharaRestaurant 75

info@sithararestaurant.com

sithararestaurant.com December 2017

EYE ON THE MARKETS Trends and Commentary By Ketu Desai

equities Rally on global economy and earnings

October, a historically volatile month for the markets, turned out to be strong. In this article, we will examine recent activity, and then dive into key drivers of the equity market, and evaluate the fixed income market. October was a risk on month. Equities had an impressive rally, led by tech companies. Behind strong economic data, cyclical industries such as financials, industrials, and materials, all had strong months. Equities were strong all around the world, Emerging markets and Europe continued their impressive year. While equities rallied, the risk of assets such as Treasuries and gold fell. A favorable global economy, earnings, and the potential for tax reform/cuts are the key drivers behind the rally. Themes that have been in place for most of the year. In There is a saying among October, the IMF raised its investors not to fight the forecast for growth to 3.6 percent this year and 3.7 Fed.... percent next year, an acceleration from the 3.2 percent growth recorded in 2016. At the same time, the IMF lowered its inflation forecast to 1.7 percent, thus providing support to a so-called goldilocks economy. Domestically, conditions have also been favorable, GDP posting another 3 percent quarter, historical signs of recession appear to be limited. Earnings continue to come in strong, companies are reporting earnings that are 4.7 percent above the estimates, with an earnings growth rate for the third quarter of 4.7 percent. Sales are 1.5 percent above estimates, with a growth rate of 5.7 percent. Over the past few years companies have been focused on margin improvement and cost cutting, and now with better economic growth, revenue has been able to grow, providing strong earnings. We have seen particularly strong results from companies that provide insight into the economic picture, such as Caterpillar, 3M, General Motors, Morgan Stanley, Johnson & Johnson, Honeywell, Boeing, Visa, Union Pacific, American Airlines, UPS, Microsoft, Intel, Amazon, US Steel, and Alphabet. Insurance companies and biotech have had a particularly tough earnings season. Finally, positive steps were made in recent weeks toward tax reform/cuts. For 2018, earnings are expected to grow 7 percent, to $140/share. If we assume that the effective corporate rate goes down 4 percentage points to 23 percent — that would add $8 to earnings, bumping up 2018 estimates to $148 from $140, or 13 percent growth from 2017. While equities rallied, we saw rates move out. During the month, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced that it will extend its quantitative easing program until September 2018. Starting in January, it will scale back buying bonds to 30 billion euros a month, from the current 60 billion euros. They pledged to keep borrowing rates at current levels, and well past the bond-buying program. Many of these rates are negative. While Saathee.com

it is likely, for the near-term, policy from both from Europe and Japan will keep a ceiling on US long-rates; at current levels, Treasuries, municipal bonds, investment grade bonds, and high yield bonds, investors must evaluate the merit of these investments over the course of the cycle. If interest rates move up 1 percent, the 10-year Treasury will roughly be down 8.7 percent in price. It is important to keep in mind, many of these instruments are yielding levels that are near all-time or cyclical lows. There is a saying among investors not to fight the Fed, and a traditional fixed income portfolio, might be doing just the opposite. Many prominent investors are calling an end to an approximately 30-year bond-bull market. If rates increase quickly, it will likely impact asset classes beyond bonds, as they get re-valued. As the Fed shifts policy, and we see better economic numbers, inflation and rates are worth keeping a close eye on. In recent earnings calls / reports, we have heard some comments such as the following, suggesting that there might finally be some inflation pressure.

Kimberly-Clark Corp: “Our commodity inﬂation estimate has increased somewhat from three months ago.” “It is a stronger inﬂation than we were expecting.”

Procter & Gamble: “We knew we’d see higher pulp price cost going into [the] year, these costs have continued to increase beyond initial forecast ranges. Ethylene, propylene, kerosene, and the polyethylene and polypropylene resins have increased recently.”

Honeywell, Inc. commented on the company’s Oct. 20 call: “Overall we’ve probably been more challenged on the cost side this year than we’ve seen in a while.” Texas Roadhouse: Management raised its forecast for labor inﬂation to a range of 7 percent to 8 percent, up from previous guidance of midsingle digit growth.

Robert Half International, Inc. chairman and CEO Harold Messmer: “Clearly we’re seeing clients starting more projects. They’re spending more money. They have more sense of urgency. Their existing staﬀ [has been] lean because they’ve held a line so far during this recovery. So, there’s some pent up demand that results from that.” Manpower Group, Inc. CEO Jonas Prising: “The labor market in the U.S. is extremely tight, [it is] hard to ﬁnd people.”

Markets will continue to focus on earnings, economic numbers, and the on-goings in Washington. The end of year has historically been strong, let’s see if the trend continues!

Ketu Desai

Ketu Desai is the Principal of i-squared Wealth Management Inc. (www.isquaredwealth.com), an investment management firm based in New Jersey ketu@isquaredwealth.com.

December 2017

• Convenience Stores • Gas Stations • Motels • Dry Cleaners

Let our experts assist you!

Buying or Selling a Business?

• Investment Properties • Land • Restaurants • Automotive

Raising Your Soul

DJ For All Occasions LIGHTS, SOUND & STYLE

Prashant Parmar 704.517.6698

Intelligent Lighting, Uplighting, Complete Sound System, Monograms, Dhol Players, & Emcee.

prashant@aspectbrokers.biz www.aspectbrokers.biz 1923 J N Pease Place, Suite 101 Charlotte, NC 28262

DJ DESI (Amit)

704-737-0930 s1357@msn.com

The Name to Remember for the celebration you will never forget!

If you are considering buying or selling a business or real estate, please contact us today!

Happy

SWITCH & SAVE UP TO $500/YEAR Call me for a quote and see how much you can save!

Holidays! • Home Insurance • Auto Insurance • Landlord/Condo insurance • Rental Insurance • Umbrella policy

DESI

CAROLINA’S PREMIER DJ

• Life insurance • Commercial insurance • Retirement planning & Annuities • Supplemental Benefits for Small Businesses

704-788-8421 Cell: 704-612-3762 RaghuSAgency@Allstate.com

Raghu Mothukuri

1036 Branchview Dr. Suite 101 Concord, NC 28025

Please call me for all your insurance needs.

Saathee.com

December 2017

ANIS H S H A H www.RealtorAnish.com www.RealtorAnish.com

Broker

Licensed in NC & SC

I have SOLD most of my listings and am in need of new listings. If you are thinking of selling, please contact me! New Listing - Sun City

This one is a must see! Beautiful 3 bedroom home with spacious finished basement on a private wooded lot! Well appointed kitchen with gas stove, granite counters, stainless steel appliances. Spacious Sunroom, Master Bedroom with trey ceiling and luxury bath. Tons of curb appeal in wonderful community featuring pool, tennis, walking trails, recreation and lake. Shows like a dream. $399,900

New Listing - Providence Pointe

SOLD

Beautiful home in desirable Providence Pointe with open floorplan, 2-story foyer, full bath and bedroom on main level and built-ins in the Great room. The spacious Kitchen features 42' cabinets, recessed lighting, large pantry and built-in desk. Gorgeous hardwood floors throughout main living areas downstairs, inviting Master suite upstairs, Bonus/Bedroom, fenced-in backyard and in-ground irrigation. This home is beautifully cared for and comes with a termite bond. Wonderful community amenities! $379,900

New Listing - Weston Glen

New Listing - Oakbrooke

Beautifully updated 3 bed/2.5 bath End Unit Townhome w/ 1-car Garage and huge Deck. Private Wooded Backyard w/ scenic view of Lake & Fountain. All new Granite Countertops, SS Appliances & Light Fixtures. New Laminate floors y! & new Carpet. Fresh Paint thru-out. 1 da Large Great Room w/ Gasin Fireplace. Spacious Master Bedroom w/ large Closet. Oversized secondary Bedrooms. Lots of storage. Convenient location. Best Schools & just a 5min walk to Ballantyne Elementary. This is a Must See! Will not last. $194,900

SOLD

Coming Soon - Kensington Forest

Gorgeous 5 bedroom executive home in desirable Kensington Forest. Beautifully customized throughout including a gourmet kitchen, grand Master Suite, and a separate Guest Studio with kitchenette and bath.

New Listing - Montclaire

SOLD

Beautifully cared for split level with new 2017 HVAC, and a 2009 Roof! Bask in the fenced-in backyard oasis and enjoy your private in-ground pool with brand new pool liner, firepit and covered patio. This home features a 2nd Master Suite and Kitchen on the lower level, simply perfect as a mother-in-law suite. Gorgeous hardwoods throughout most of the home. Awesome location near the light rail. Don't miss this opportunity! $299,900

FOUR LEVELS OF LUXURY LIVING!! 5 bedrooms. Beautifully remodeled golf course home on the 11th green. New granite counters in kitchen and bathrooms, NEW appliances. brand new floors, and more! Dual staircase, heavy moldings, wine cellar, huge wrap-around screened porch. Amazing kitchen and luxurious master with sitting area. Huge Rec room or media room. Gorgeous Wine Cellar. Lots of room. Cul-de-sac home. Fantastic golf course views!! This one is a must see! $749,900

Gorgeous estate home located in the heart of Marvin. Grand Kitchen with large island and a commercial gas stove. Luxurious main level Master Bedroom. Extra spacious Bonus Room with full bath on upper level. Screened Porch and adjacent Patio with flagstone flooring. Beautiful circular driveway, 3-car backload garage and large level lot. Brand new landscaping. Freshly painted inside and out. Exquisite details throughout! $799,900

Lovely 4 bedroom home with over 2600 square feet. Formal Living room, Dining room and main level study. Bright 2story Great room with fireplace. Huge kitchen with breakfast area. Large fenced back yard and 2 car garage. $364,900

New Listing - GOLF COURSE HOME - Piper Glen

SOLD

New Price - Wyndham Hall

SOLD

Happy Holidays!

Serving the Carolinasâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Real Estate needs since 2000 New Listing - Hunter Oaks

Move-in ready 4 bed/2.5 bath with large bonus in highly-rated school district! Open floor plan with new paint inside & out, new fixtures, granite countertops, hardwood floors throughout first floor. Office has wall-to-wall custom built-in. Enjoy your back deck in privacy on your beautiful wooded yard! $379,900

New Listing - Kenilworth

Spectacular home in desirable Ballantyne area. Exceptionally updated with brand new appliances, fixtures, carpet and fresh paint. Exquisitely remodeled Bathrooms with a brand new frameless shower door scheduled s! day to be installed in Master bath. iPristine n3 Kitchen, sun-filled 2-story Great Room with fireplace, spacious Master Bedroom with trey ceiling, and a very nice open floorplan. Roomy deck overlooks beautiful treed yard. Excellent schools, shopping, and convenient to 485. $399,900

SOLD

New Listing - Weston Glen

SOLD

Pristine 5 bedroom / 4 bath home offers location, location, location! Spacious gourmet Kitchen, light-filled 2-story Family room, luxurious Master suite with trey ceiling, and main level Guest bedroom and Bath! Tons of windows, beautiful mouldings and pristine wood floors. The patio and backyard are just perfect for entertaining. $439,900

Nandi Daniels Executive Assistant Cell: 704-737-2384

15235 John J. Delaney Dr. Charlotte, NC 28277

Recipient of the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cup for Overall Company Sales Leader 2008-2016

Awards:

Ranked #1 at Ballantyne Office 2008 - 2016 Overall Office Sales Leader 2008 - 2016 Most Units Sold 2008 - 2016 Platinum Customer Service Recipient 2008 - 2016

Anish Shah, B.S.E.E Broker NC & SC

Cell: 704-449-LIST (5478)

FAX: 704-749-9558

ashah@helenadamsrealty.com

www.RealtorAnish.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Holiday Parade of Lights - dec 9 (Columbia) The Greater Cayce - West Columbia Holiday Parade of Lights is one of the most anticipated holiday parades in the Midlands of South Carolina. This beloved night time parade begins at 5:30 pm on Saturday, December 9 in front of the Cayce Municipal Complex, located at 1800 12th Street, and will proceed down 12th to 12th Street & Hwy 1 in West Columbia. To learn more, visit www.cwcchamber.com

Holidays at the garden - thru dec 31 (Belmont, nC)

“the Polar express” train Ride in the smokies - thru dec 31 The 1-1/4-hour round-trip excursion comes to life as the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey through the quiet wilderness for a special visit at the North Pole. Set to the sounds of the classic motion picture soundtrack, guests on board will enjoy hot chocolate and a treat while listening and reading along with the magical story. Children’s faces show the magic of the season when the train arrives at the North Pole to ﬁnd Santa Claus waiting. Santa will board The Polar Express, greeting each child and presenting them with a special gift as in the story, their own silver sleigh bell. Christmas carols will be sung on the return trip. The train ride will run between November 10 & December 31 from 5pm - 6:30pm each night. Tickets and more info can be found at www.gsmr.com/events/polar-express

The Daniel Stowe Botanical Gardens will glow with holiday spirit from the twinkling trees to the sparkling fountains and is transformed into a natural winter wonderland ﬁlled with festive décor including a towering tree of orchids, more than 600,000 lights, and illuminated displays. Each night visitors will enjoy live music, holiday shopping in The Garden Store, crackling ﬁres to warm cold hands or roast a marshmallow, and the Children’s Holiday Discovery Trail of activities. Model train displays created by the Metrolina Model Railroaders can be found throughout the Garden. Horse-drawn carriage rides will be available from Southern Breezes Carriages from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday through Dec. 31 and also Dec. 18-20. The Garden Tram will be available for rides on evenings when the carriages are not available and rides are free with admission from 6 to 9 p.m. Mrs. Claus will visit the Garden from 6 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 4-6, 11-13, and 18-24. Santa will only be available during Capture the Magic with Santa and preregistration and the purchase of a photograph package and Holidays at the Garden admission are required. Food service will be available every night. For more details visit www.dsbg.org.

Holiday on Ice skating Rink - thru Jan 4 (Charlotte)

Kannapolis Christmas Celebration of Lights - thru dec 30 Stroll through the park or take a ride on the Winterland Express to see more than 250,000 Christmas lights. The Celebration of lights will also feature the Double Decker Carousel and performances from the Kannapolis Singing Bears. Each night Santa Claus will take time from his busy schedule to visit with all the boys and girls. It is $2.00 to ride the train or carousel. Most other activities are free. Daily Nov 25-Dec 30 (Except 12/24 and 12/25) Sun-Thurs: 6-9pm FriSat: 6-10pm. Village Park, 700 West C. Street, Kannapolis, NC

North Carolina’s only outdoor ice skating rink is back in action once again in the heart of uptown. If you’re looking for a family friendly activity, a romantic night with a loved one, a unique experience or a holiday tradition, then Holiday on Ice could do the trick. Located at the NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza at 400 East Martin Luther King Blvd, join one of Charlotte’s favorite holiday traditions. The rink is now its 14th year. For more details visit http://holidayonicecharlotte.com/

Meadow Lights – thru dec 31 (Benson, nC) “The Meadow Lights” was started over 40 years ago when Roy D. Johnson began decorating his home and yard for his children to enjoy. Each year he decorated a little more than the year before. It didn’t take long before others in the community began enjoying the lights also. Each year as the lights grew, so did the number of people who came to see them. Since then, the lights have grown from a single decorated yard to over 30 acres of lights and from the community riding by to thousands from all over the state each year. This colorful event will run between November 17 and December 31, 2017. Learn more at www.meadowlights.com Saathee.com

Christmas town usa - dec 1-26 (Mcadenville, nC) Each season, just west of Charlotte, the quaint town of McAdenville becomes a Christmas wonderland. Almost overnight, the little textile town that could is transformed into “Christmas Town USA” attracting visitors from across the country. Each December 1st Christmas Town USA begins the season with a Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Dupont Plaza. It all started in 1956, when the McAdenville Men’s Club conceived the idea of using red, white and green lights to decorate nine trees around the McAdenville Community Center. The tradition grew and today 375 trees and nearly all the community homes are alit in spectacular fashion with the December 2017

Uniworld Travel, your Trusted Partner Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

UNI W

Travel Agency, Inc Toll Free: 844.400.2310 202.400.2310 website: www.uniworldinc.com email: rommel@uniworldinc.com

Can you imagine such views near your home? And still reach Bangalore International Airport in 20 minutes?

airfare.cruise.visa.tours

Lets see how...

● Best Fares and Reliable Service ● Global Travel Experts ● Tickets from India to US for Parents ● We speak Hindi, Gujarati & English ● Discounted Fares to INDIA, PAKISTAN, NEPAL, BANGLADESH, EUROPE & AFRICA

What is around us? • Unbeatable Nandi Hill view • Visvesvaraya Institute of Advance Technology University (www.vtu.ac.in) • Satysai Grama Educational institutions founded by Sri Satya Sai Loka Seva Trust • Information Technology Investment Region (ITIR) • Magnificent 1000 year old Nandhi, Bhoganadiswara Temple

RLD

Bengaluru, Karnataka, India

www.villexo.co.in P: 91-9008569627

M e e n a ks h i (Whatsapp for more info)

villexo.realty@gmail.com

Creations LLC

Indian Designer Ethnic Wear for the whole family!

Men's, Women's & Kids Wear

Sarees : Gadwal, Kanchi, Darmavaram and Fancy Sarees Blouses: Ready-made and Maggam Work Blouses Kids Ethnic Wear for Boys and Girls Women's Ethnic Wear for all Sizes

474 Kimbrell Crossing Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29715

Open: Mon-Fri 11am to 6:30pm; Sat & Sun 12pm to 7pm

By Appointment Only: 814.203.7215

Email: meenakshi.creations07@gmail.com facebook.com/meenakkshicreations Saathee.com

Great Selection & Service 81

December 2017

COMMUNITY EVENTS

same red, white and green lights! It is a sight to behold for the 600,000 annual visitors. The event is completely free and runs through December 26. For more information, visit www.mcadenville-christmastown.com

and DJ Magic Mike from New York spinning hot tunes all night long. There will also be a live dholi. This is a family-friendly event. Children under 42” height will enter free with ticketed parents. For more details call 919.818.6002. For more information visit www.GoelsPlaza.com/nye.

Charlotte new year’s eve - dec 31 The city celebrates the incoming new year at Romare Bearden Park, 300 South Church Street, Charlotte beginning at 8pm. Enjoy music, kids’s activities, food trucks, city lights, vendors and much more at this family-friendly event. For more details visit www.charlottecentercity.org/calendar/clt-new-years...

Candlelight evenings at Biltmore - thru Jan 6 (asheville) Candlelight, ﬁrelight and live music bring holiday warmth to Biltmore House’s extravagant holiday décor during these nighttime tours. Candlelight Christmas Evenings include a self-guided candlelight tour of Biltmore House, next-day visit to the gardens, Antler Hill Village and Biltmore Winery. Evening guests can also take advantage of Antler Hill Village & Winery to enjoy free wine tastings. This special holiday event will run from November 3 until January 6. Advanced reservations are required for evening visits. For pricing and booking times, visit www.biltmore.com

First night Raleigh ny eve - dec 31 The annual family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration will be held in downtown Raleigh on December 31. This is the 26th year for the event and there will be nearly 100 performances in over 35 venues throughout downtown. Learn a new hobby for the New Year at the daytime DIY Festival from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm at the NC Museums of History and Sciences. Bounce around music, theatre, and other performances after the Early Countdown at 7:00 pm. Ride the First Night Ferris Wheel and the Fayetteville St Pirate Ship. Just make sure you’re on Fayetteville Street at midnight for the WRAL Countdown to Midnight and the famous Raleigh Acorn Drop with special guests Jack the Radio and Birds of Avalon. For more details visit www.FirstNightRaleigh.com

Resolutions 2018 - Jan 3-21 (Hillsborough, nC) Hillsborough Gallery of Arts hosts its annual statewide juried art exhibit featuring both 2D & 3D media. January 3-21, 2018. Opening reception Friday January 12, 6-9pm. Awards juror Sarah Schroth, Director, Nasher Museum, Duke University. The Hillsborough Gallery of Arts is owned by 22 artists featuring painting, sculpture, photography, glass art, jewelry, turned goels Plaza new year’s eve - dec 31 (Morrisville, nC) wood, pottery & ﬁber art. Hillsborough Gallery of Arts is The annual Goels Plaza celebrations features Indian cuisine and located at 121 N. Churton Street, Hillsborough, NC. For more bar, face painting, live NYC ball drop, dance and dress prizes, details visit www.hillsboroughgallery.com

Commercial surrogacy continued from page 10

embryos belonging to gay men. The women were then flown back to Nairobi after completing 24 weeks of pregnancy in India. They birthed babies in designated hospitals in Nairobi, from where gay father clients picked up the babies. The Mumbai doctor maintained that he had not broken the law, because technically, he had not interacted with gay clients within Indian territory, and all he had provided was in vitro fertilization for Kenyan “health-care” seekers. News reports have documented a similar effect in Cambodia, where the government has begun to crack down on surrogacy earlier this year. Now, surrogate mothers from Phnom Penh are being sent to Bangkok, Thailand to deliver babies. Thai law bans commercial surrogacy transactions, but enforcement agencies are unable to distinguish surrogate mothers in hospitals from other pregnant women. Cambodian surrogate mothers are also being sent to Laos, where there are no laws, to deliver babies in clinics staffed by Thai doctors who once worked in Thailand when commercial surrogacy was still legal there. Under these circumstances, women are far more vulnerable than before. They are wholly dependent on agencies that have brought them into countries where they are strangers and unfamiliar with the language, culture and social norms. Surrogacy agencies provide them with housing and food in these foreign countries. And they control the money. As a result, the women are powerless to terminate their contracts, or go back home if they choose to do so. They are isolated from friends and family and have no legal recourse to address financial abuses or medical malpractice. Saathee.com

Human rights of surrogate mothers Country-specific bans do nothing to alleviate the vulnerability of working-class women across poor countries. Instead, these bans create situations where women may be exposed to far deeper mistreatment and exploitation. Governments might want to reconsider bans on commercial surrogacy. One option is to negotiate multilateral agreements between countries to govern global surrogacy. Such international law would need to balance the rights of persons pursuing parenthood, children’s rights and surrogate mothers’ rights. But because of differences in countries’ norms on gay rights and surrogacy, international agreements are difficult to forge. A more pragmatic solution for countries like India and Thailand would be to legalize commercial surrogacy but regulate it heavily. Rather than bans, governments should consider laws that uphold surrogate mothers’ sense of dignity and bodily integrity. Surrogate mothers should be treated as full human beings who have the right to choose how they get pregnant, the right to opt out of medical interventions, the right to refuse cesarean surgeries and the right to maintain contact with the babies they birthed. Commercial surrogacy is tenable only if surrogate mothers’ emotional, physical and intellectual well-being is respected.

Editor’s note: This analysis was produced in collaboration with News Deeply’s Women & Girls. Sharmila Rudrappa is a Professor of Sociology, University of Texas at Austin The Conversation is an independent source of news and views from the academic and research community. December 2017

Music Lessons - Charlotte

Harmonium & Keyboard

- Learn Music the Easy Way! - Individual & Group Lessons - From Ages 8 to 80 Call Kirit Shukla 704-568-8206

Neeta’s Beauty Parlor Near Hindu Center • Open 7 Days A Week (Charlotte, NC) • Bleaching • Threading • Waxing • Massage • Facials

• Mehndi • Hot Oil treatment for Hair • Hair coloring • Manicure & Pedicure • Hair Cuts

Call For Appointment

704.968.0270

We can come to your location, Call for details.

South Charlotte Endocrinology “Remarkable Endocrinology Care”

Board-Certified in Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism; Board-Certified in Internal Medicine; Endocrine Certification in Neck Ultrasound. Dr. Narasimhan is committed to offering high-quality, compassionate care to each of his patients.

Thyroid Diseases • Pituitary/Parathyroid Disorders

Osteoporosis • Diabetes •On Site Ultrasound

Kanakasabai Narasimhan, MD, FACP, ECNU, FACE

Saathee.com

15825 Ballantyne Medical Place, Suite 220, Charlotte, NC 28277 Call 704-316-2930 to schedule an appointment. 83

December 2017

COMMUNITY NEWS triangle area Women’s Cricket

Saba Shah pulled out ahead to secure their spot in the finals with their only loss against the Blitzers. The Queens battled on with a slim roster due to injuries and player unavailability, but continued undaunted to enjoy their cricket. Things came together at the right time for the Blazing Blitzers, however, as they thwarted an inspired effort by the Warriors Captain and the leading tournament scorer, Sabah Shah, to claim the champions trophy. All the teams were supported by key performances from their under-15 players that also brought tremendous energy to the contests. The participants certainly enjoyed playing, but more importantly, they have all come together through a shared passion for the game and built a “Cricket Family” of mutual support. They also realize that they have a responsibility to build a platform for the youth so that they can progress to the national and international stage and perhaps even play on the US Women’s Team. The younger players appreciate the nurturing environment created by the adults and have tremendous respect for their mentors on the team. The women now have a vision to welcome more players and teams from across the state and even host teams from around the world. All of them have had the opportunity to realize their dream of playing cricket and look forward to helping more women realize their dreams. A special thanks to all the players that have come out every week regardless of schedule and have dedicated their soul and heart. Cricket enthusiasts are invited to be a part of this celebration and effort. For more information, contact wtclcoordinator@trianglecricketleague.org. Contributed by Asia Sheikh

Photo courtesy of Red Dot Studios

Eleven young women in red jerseys converged in celebration on the field as cheers erupted on the sidelines. The Blazing Blitzers had won the inaugural women’s fall cricket tournament organized by the Triangle Cricket League (TCL), upsetting the table-toppers, Warriors, in one of the closest finishes of the season. But the revelries were truly in swing once the blue Warriors jerseys joined the frenzy just a few moments later, applauded by one of the largest crowds that a cricket match had seen in the Triangle. This was a symbolic moment. Just six months earlier, the TCL had started the women’s cricket program under the management of Women’s Cricket Coordinator, Rupali Ullal after receiving numerous inquiries from cricket enthusiasts like Asia Sheikh. The Triangle Cricket League is based in the Triangle area of North Carolina and was established in 2009. Over a thousand players from around the state of North Carolina participate in multiple tournament formats through the cricket season that extends from April through October. The league also has a thriving youth cricket program, but had no formal structure for women’s cricket until now. In a concerted effort to offer opportunities to women interested in playing cricket the TCL Executive Committee led by President, Jana Chellaperumal, commenced the coaching program for girls and women in early May. What began as a training program for a small group of enthusiastic participants rapidly grew to over fifty ladies ranging from ages 9 - 55 years and hailing from different countries and professional backgrounds. Trained by Cricket Australia certified coaches Rohaan Gosala and Anirudh Ullal and assisted by volunteer coach Girish Prabhu, the group learned the basics and rapidly progressed to developing essential skills. The enthusiasm and desire to learn was so strong among the participants that the TCL executive team invited Anand Tummala, Head Coach for the USA National Women’s team to work with the group. The visiting coach was suitably impressed by the determination and motivation of the participants to recommend that the league hasten their plans to conduct a competitive cricket tournament. The tournament began in the first weekend in October with three teams: the Warriors, Queens and the Blazing Blitzers. The tournament saw some remarkable individual as well as team performances. The competition was tough from the getgo as all three teams recorded wins in quick succession. The Queens led by Kshama Rajneesh and the Blazing Blitzers led by Aparna Bhadriraju put up tough fights, but the Warriors led by Saathee.com

ekal vidyalaya Foundation Raises $2 Million in a glittering gala

Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation (EVF) held its glittering Gala on Saturday, November 4 at the Cipriani on Wall Street in New York City. The response for this highly anticipated event was overwhelming, not only in terms of capacity-attendance, but also donor’s enthusiasm to support EVF’s worthy cause. The evening raised more than $2 Million. Ekal, as EVF is popularly known, had been raising funds in USA through series of concerts mainly directed at grass-root level, until now. This gala was an added innovative eﬀort to reach out to the corporate world and high net-worth individuals and bring mainstream America into its fold. This spectacular evening’s main architect 84

December 2017

Ranked as one of the Top 10 Restaurants in Charlotte!

saffron

Indian Cuisine Restaurant & Bar

BUY 1 ENTREE GET 2ND 50% OFF

Happy Holidays!

Not Valid with any other promotion or buffet. One coupon per table per visit. Other restrictions may apply. Expires 1/5/18

Lunch Buffet - 7 Days a Week!

LUNCH: Mon - Fri: 11 - 2:30 pm; Sat-Sun: 11 - 3 pm DINNER : Mon - Thurs: 5 - 9:30 pm; Fri & Sat: 5 - 10:30 pm Sunday Dinner closed but available for Private Parties.

2135-B Ayrsley Town Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28273 (Next to Ayrsley Theatre / YMCA. Exit # 1. I-485 & S. Tryon Rd.)

Phone: 980-297-7722

WWW.SAFFRON-CUISINE.COM

For Catering, call Sunil Handa at 704-889-FOOD (3663) Preferred caterer for all hotels in Charlotte.

Whitehall Park Dr.

Arylsey Town Blvd.

485

Monroe Dental Care is proud to welcome

Dr. Vinita Patel

Dr. Patel believes in comprehensive care meaning she is going to look at the overall picture and be certain of all issues that are at hand. She believes in making sure the "foundation" for your teeth is healthy and stable. It is her goal to make her patients feel comfortable, have a pain-free experience, and enjoy coming to the dentist.

Our Mission is to maintain Monroe Dental Care as Union County's premier dental practice by providing a World-Class Experience for our patients. Our team values and strives for stellar comprehensive dental care in a compassionate, professional, and state-of-the-art environment.

Dr. Patel is a member of the ADA, Charlotte Dental Society, and is always excited to stay abreast the most upcoming technology and advances in dentistry which is ever so changing.

(704) 292-1642 102 e. Windsor st. Monroe, nC 28112

FILLINGS • CROWNS • BRIDGES EXTRACTIONS • ORAL SURGERY COSMETIC PROCEDURES COMPLETE & PARTIAL DENTURES Saathee.com

monroedentalcare.net

December 2017

Mumbai Beach Cleanup

COMMUNITY NEWS

continued from page 28

was Mohan Wanchoo (Chairman, Founder of EC Infosystems). He was ably supported in this affair by Chirag Patel (CO-CEO & Chairman of Amneal Pharmaceuticals), Soner Kanlier (CEO Jasmine Universe) and Rajesh Gooty (Founder, Pres.-CEO of M Corp). Since its inception 29 years ago, Ekal had been setting new records, year after year in fund-raising. Last year, even without any high-end gala event, this largest NGO, with chapters in ten different countries including in Middle-eastern countries, raised $7.2 Million in USA alone. This evening started with the salutation to American and Indian flags with national anthems on the big screen. Welcoming the guests, Mohan Wanchoo, briefed the gathering about Ekal’s multi-dimensional approach to uplift rural and tribal areas of India through emphasis on literacy, healthcare, integrated village development and empowerment of village folks. He informed the gathering that Ekal currently has 58,000 schools, spread all over India supporting 1.56 Million children - more than half of which were girls. He further stressed that the project cost, including administration and monitoring was only $1-a-day or $365 per year per school. Chirag Patel thanked all the teachers working at grassroots levels in India and imparting life-sustaining education to the children facing various hurdles. Vinod Jhunjhunwala, the President of EkalUSA paid tribute to Ekal leadership in USA as well Ekal-India team, which had flown in especially for this occasion. Under Ekal-USA leadership Ashok Danda, Subhash Gupta, Ranjani Saigal and Ramesh Shah were acknowledged while for EkalIndia Dr Subhash Chandra, Bajrang Bagra, Laxmi Goel, and Naresh Jain were recognized. Ranjani Saigal, the Executive Director touched on the whole range of Ekal mission in remote areas through couple of brief videos that also depicted use of digital technology, organic farming, and skill-training centers which are empowering rural life. Mitzi Perdue, the heiress to Sheraton Hotel chain and Perdue Poultry Farms was one of the keynote speakers of the evening along with Dr. Subhash Chandra, Chairman of ZEETV and Chairman of Ekal-Global. Perdue regaled the audience with three heartwarming stories about Ekal, that also reflected the importance of education for better achievements in life. Her speech enthused so many people that live mission-based auction for raising funds had a jump start with pledging process reaching one million mark within first 15 minutes. Three generous donors – Chirag Patel, Ajay/Ranjini Poddar, Sant Singh Chatwal – each donated $250,000 each. There was synergy and excitement during the pledging process - so much so that it was hard to keep the tab on all auction paddle-cards. Dr. Subhash Chandra praised Mohan Wanchoo and Chirag Patel for putting up the magnificent fund-raising show and challenged the economically blessed group of people to shoulder responsibility of those in need. Lauding the generosity of big donors, he further elaborated that numerous small donors were equally important as they had larger stake in building any nation by their sheer numbers. The evening was interspersed with fabulous Indian dances. With this awesome success, Ekal plans to make such Galas an annual affair going forward and host them at various Metropolitan places like LA, Chicago, and Houston. Contributed by Prakash Waghmare

Saathee.com

But, don’t people know that what you put in will come back? “No,” she says flatly. “It’s done. It’s over. It’ll go into the water. People think it’ll go in the water. It won’t come back and the water will take care of it.” She says that since coming to the beach clean-up, she doesn’t litter anymore. In fact, she puts packages and wrappers in her pocket until she finds a dustbin, and tells others to do the same. There’s also Shailesh, a 31-year-old fisherman, who’s manning the drinking water station for the volunteers. Shailesh deals with the trash every single day in his work. Until two years ago, all the fishermen were finding more plastic than fish in their nets. Then Shah came and spoke to him and his colleagues. And it’s made a difference. Earlier, he says, whatever trash showed up in the nets was dumped out right on the beach. Now they get it. “Today, there is much less trash in our nets. Because, you know, when we take the garbage off the beach, it doesn’t go back into the ocean.”

On weekdays, Afroz Shah (center, in black hat) is a constitutional lawyer. On the weekends, he tries to spend at least four hours picking up trash at the beach. He’s inspired countless others to do the same.

Plus, he adds, “the others see us picking up trash every Saturday and Sunday, so they feel bad for us and refrain from littering on the beach.” But that’s not true for everybody. There are plenty of people who ask Shah why he doesn’t just complain to the city about the trash. It’s the government’s job to clean up. He says he thought about it, he is a constitutional lawyer. Then he decided, “No, this ocean is mine. I spent my childhood here. I have a special [connection] with this ocean,” he says. “Why should I wait for a government body to tell me what to do? ... All governments are bound to protect the environment. But as a human being, so am I.” Now the city is collaborating. Even on a Sunday, there are government workers here, helping out. Shah is so certain and passionate, he’s changing minds every day. More than two years after he ﬁrst started, Shah and his felt hat continue to be visible on the beach. Versova beach is lighter by more than 7,000 tons of garbage and every day Shah gets emails from people all over the country who tell him how he’s inspired them, which makes him happy. “For me, it’s a very personal journey. I started the clean-up, I will continue doing the clean-up,” he continues. “I tell my volunteers if none of you will be there, I will still be standing, I have to do my personal stuﬀ for this planet.”

December 2017

Serving North, South Indian and Indo-Chinese Dishes (Veg & Non-Veg)

For catering contact: Andy @ 704-512-9177 or Passagetoindiaclt@gmail.com We now cater Gujarati food for all occasions We carry fresh Flowers and Flower Garlands for all Events.

PLACE YOUR ORDER ON-LINE AT

www.PassageToIndiaNC.com

Lunch Buffet: Mon to Fri (11 - 3) & Sat & Sun (11:30 - 3:30) Dinner: Sun - Thurs: (5 - 10) & Fri - Sat (5 - 11)

Special LUNCH BOxES $4.99 & up Lunch Buffet: $8.99 Weekend Brunch Buffet: $10.99

Over 30 items including Pani Poori, Bhel,Chat Papdi, Pav Bhaji, Idli,Medu Wada, Sambar,Vegetable Chowmein, Chilli Chicken, Tandoori Mix Grill,Goat Curry & more

We Serve Fresh Dosa on Table - Please Ask Your Server

WE SERVE HALAL MEAT

704-549-1886 OR 704-512-9177

9510 University City Blvd. Suite 101, Charlotte, NC 28213 TAKEOUT SPECIAL

15% OFF

Take Out Only. Cannot be combined with any other coupons. Other restrictions may apply. Must present coupon. Exp: 1/5/18

WE DELIVER

(INCLUDES LUNCH BOXES) Minimum order $20. Within 5 mile Radius only. No Coupons or Discounts. Restrictions Apply.

Get $5 Off DINE IN SPECIAL

When second entrÃ©e of equal or greater value is purchased.

Cannot be combined any other offer. One coupon per table. Must present coupon. Excludes buffet, Indo-Chinese & South Indian. Exp 1/5/18

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

group meets the second & fourth Sun from 3 - 5pm. This course is based on the Home Study Course of the Arsha Vidya Gurukulam. Each session starts with meditation followed by a recorded lecture in English and discussion For Further Details: dshetti@gmail.com - 214.587.7331 skdave@hotmail.com - 704.844.9567

Charlotte

art of Living (Charlotte) Art of Living is dedicated to serving society by strengthening the individual. This is done through self-development programs that recharge the body, mind and spirit and allow people to function at their optimum potential. People from all backgrounds, religions and cultural traditions are welcome. For Further Details: 980.216.8732 charlotte@us.artoﬂiving.org www.artoﬂiving.org/charlotte

Charlotte Hindu Center table tennis The Charlotte Hindu Center Table Tennis group meets every Wednesday from 6.30 - 10 pm. All levels and types of play. Takes place at Vihar Hall, Hindu Center, 7400 City View Dr, Charlotte, NC. For Further Details: 704.607.8412

BaPs shri swaminarayan Mandir (Charlotte) A spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selﬂess service. Activities include: Daily Arti - 6:30 am & 6:30 pm; Weekly Satsang Sabha held every Sunday which includes Bhajans and spiritual discourses: Adults: 4pm, Young Men (Ages 23-36) - 3pm, Young Women (Ages 23-36) - 4pm, Teens - 4:30pm, and Children - 5pm. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/baps-charlotte

Charlotte Malayalee association The association promotes and facilitates the cultural, educational, social and economic welfare of the Charlotte Malayalee community. For Further Details: cltma@cltma.org / 704.517.5850 www.cltma.org

Charlotte Marathi Mandal The Mandal adds to the vibrancy of Charlotte with various events including the Ganapati Festival which are designed to keep the cultural values and traditions alive. The community is encouraged to participate. For Further Details: 704.565.9237 committee@charlottemarathimandal.org www.saathee.com/charlotte-marathi-mandal

Bethel Christian Fellowship BCF was founded to “Raise Up The Next Generation For Jesus Christ.” The Fellowship oﬀers services in various Indian languages (Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam) with a Sunday School from 9 - 9:55 am and Sunday Worship from 10 - 11:45 am. Located at 7604 New Town Road, Waxhaw, NC 28173 For Further Details: 803.792.7223 Pastor Rajan Samuel - pastorofbcf@gmail.com www.bcfcog.org

Charlotte telangana association This association was formed to promote Telangana cultural activities within greater Charlotte area. It brings together all the Telangana people living in the area to discuss, plan, and take action around the development of Telangana focusing both on rural and urban areas. For Further Details: Devender Reddy Gudepu - 702.510.8355 Shivaram Madhahu - 513.374.5040 charlottetelanganaassociation@gmail.com www.charlottetelangana.com

Carolina Khadayata samaj All Khadayata families of NC and SC are welcome to be part of the Carolina Khadayata Samaj. For Further Details: carolinakhadayatasamaj@yahoo.com Jaswant Mehta - 704.839.1965 Rita Shah - 704.321.0740

Carolinas Christian assembly Carolinas Christian Assembly located on 12601 Idlewild Road in the city of Matthews, NC, oﬀers worship, fellowship and community assistance to all South Asians living in the Charlotte area. Sunday morning worship services are currently being held at Morningstar Lutheran Chapel, 12900 Idlewild Road, Matthews, NC 28105 at 10am. Pastor, Dr. Shibu Cherian, oﬀers free counseling services to married couples and is a licensed premarital counselor. For Further Details: 704.208.9099 www.carolinaschristianassembly.org

Charlotte vipassana Meditation group Vipassana, which means to see things as they really are, is one of India’s most ancient techniques of meditation. It was taught in India more than 2500 years ago as a remedy for universal ills. The Charlotte Vipassana Meditation Group holds weekly group sits and monthly all-day sits for established students. Ten-day courses are also available for all students. Never a charge for a course. For Further Details: 704.277.5013 - rbddesai@gmail.com www.dhamma.org

Charlotte gita study group Beginners and advanced students of the Gita are welcome. The Saathee.com

Classical Music association of Charlotte (CMaC) CMAC sponsors many classical concerts during the year in 88

December 2017

B I P I N PA R E K H R E A LT Y, L L C LICENSED IN NC/SC/GA

Bipin Parekh

Owner / Broker / Realtor. Licensed in NC / SC / Georgia 704.841.9318(H) 704.608.8469 (cell) E-Mail: Bipinparekh45@gmail.com

Realtor with 26+ years of experience

*BUYER REBATE*

up to 2% PRICE > 1%, 1.5%, 2% *

Rebate for Closing Costs Only

*buyer must take lenders approval to use “rebate” (in HUD1)

Krishna Prasad Ravi 704.421.3603

satish Maroju 706.627.7412 Smaroju@Gmail.com

smita Parekh

Broker / Realtor; Licensed in NC/SC

704.608.2191 (cell) smt_parekh@yahoo.com Closing Coordinator

tirlok gupta 704.608.5473

tirlokgupta1@gmail.com

Balaji tatineni 803.280.4809 tatinenib@yahoo.com

divakar ganni 715.505.5139 divakarganni@gmail.com

sreedhar Perla 516.448.6231

anupam Patel

sreedharperla@gmail.com

856.266.7664

anupamjpatel@gmail.com

Mousumi adak

sisir Penugonda

tammy gutti 704.769.0032

carolinarealtortammy.gutti@gmail.com

abhishek gupta 980.213.5440 realtor.abhishek@gmail.com

Chandra Mavuluri 336.262.9290

chandram.realestate@gmail.com

Mohan guttula 980.298.0747 mohan.guttula.realtor@gmail.com

vikas Kumar Jhamb 980.245.2500 vikasjhamb.realtor@gmail.com

Padma Kalindindi 980.833.2939 360.786.1239 padmak.realtor@gmail.com

shailesh H Chhatrala 980.253.3504 realtor.sam@outlook.com

venkat Pinnamaraju 704.248.0359 Venkatp.realtor@gmail.com

Manjesh gorajala 704.303.1021 408.256.2659 manjesh.realtor@outlook.com

amith satheesh 704.763.0088 amithkidu@gmail.com Jack Jaimes 704.451.8301

anitha Ravella 817.606.7712 anitha.virgo@gmail.com

gasper sahava Raj 336.848.2620 gasper.raj@gmail.com

jaimes.jack@gmail.com Speaks Spanish

Kavitha Maroju 704.524.4431 aikyarealtors@gmail.com

sonali Roy 704.284.4748 sonaliroy.realtor@gmail.com

sudhakar Reddy Meenige 704.706.5174 Relator.Sudhakar17@gmail.com

venkat yelamanchili 815.508.3608 yvsaisunder@gmail.com

deepti shukla 980.365.0109 shukldeepti@gmail.com

Kpravi@gmail.com

704-421-8356 mou24in@yahoo.com

704.724.2312 psisir@gmail.com

Call us for a free listing consultation!

Call us for our listings!

w w w . R e b a t e F o r H o m e B u y e r. c o m

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Jain Center of greater Charlotte (JCgC) JCGC serves the spiritual, cultural, and social needs of Jain families around metro Charlotte. It is dedicated to the practice, understanding, promotion, and preservation of the Jain faith. Members meet for worship, ceremonies, and festivals through the year. These activities include celebrating major religious festivals such as Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushan, and Diwali, and programs like Swadhyay, Poojas and children’s Pathshaala. Located at 7631 Malliard Creek Road, Charlotte, NC 28262. Regular events: Weekdays: 9:30am - Prakshal and Puja; 7:30pm - Aarti and Mangal Divo Weekends: 10:30am - Prakshal and Puja 7:30pm - Aarti and Mangal Divo For Further Details: JCGC President Vipul Shah - 704.705.0314 info@jaincenterus.org www.jaincenterus.org

Charlotte. Membership forms are available at shows. For Further Details: Lakshmi & Muthukrishnan - 704.814.9355 Jayashree & Panduranga - 704.442.1186 memberservices@onlinecmac.org www.onlinecmac.org

gurdwara sahib (Charlotte) The Gurdwara works to enrich the lives of the Sikh & Punjabi communities of Charlotte and surrounding areas. Regular Program: Every Sunday: 10 - 11am, Asa Di War by Bhai Satnam Singh Jee, 11am - 12pm, Keertan by Children, 12 - 1:15pm, Keertan by Bhai Satnam Singh Jee, 1:15 - 1:30pm, Ardaas, followed by Guru Ka Langar. Located at 1760 Stoney Creek Lane, Charlotte, NC 28262 For Further Details: 704.509.2828 www.charlottegurdwara.org

Kriya yoga (Charlotte) The group promotes Kriya Yoga Meditation as taught by the lineage of realized masters such as Mahaavatar Baba Ji, Lahri Mahasaya, Sri Yukteshwar Giri, Paramahamsa Yogananda, Hariharananda, and Prajanananada. A sincere seeker who follows the path of Kriya Yoga with a desire for spiritual growth can attain Self-realization. Hosting annual initiation programs and a weekly Sunday meditation for initiates. For Further Details: Adesh Gupta - 704.814.7476 info@charlotte.kriya.org www.kriya.org

Hindu Center of Charlotte The Hindu Center of Charlotte holds many regular events and religious ceremonies. The temple library is stocked with books, CDs, DVDs and other materials on varied genres such as religion, culture, history, philosophy, yoga and health. Upcoming Events: Dec 16: Balaji Anniversary Dec. 29: Vaikuntha Eka Dasi Jan 14: Pongal / Makar Sangranti Jan 27: India Republic Day celebrations For Further Details: www.saathee.com/hindu-center-charlotte

India association of Charlotte The organization works to foster better understanding of the rich diversity of Indian culture by the larger community in and around Charlotte. They host the Festival of India every Fall since 1994. For Further Details: Toni Sawhney - 704.604.2133 Lal Vishin - 704.545.3727 www.indiafestival.net

Pratham - Charlotte Pratham organizes grassroots programs in the area of primary education and has made an impact on the learning levels of several million children through its Read India campaign. With nearly half the children in India who attend schools not learning to read and write at the required level, Pratham is trying to ﬁll an important gap in the area of primary education. For Further Details: Anju Desai - ajdesai66@gmail.com - 980.622.0125 Shubhra Chakraborty - shubhra.chakraborty1@gmail.com 704.942.4798 www.prathamusa.org

Indian american Muslim Council (IMaC) of Charlotte IAMC is committed to promoting peace, pluralism and social justice through advocacy. The organization is also committed to promote and protect human rights and dignity in India as they are the foundation of freedom and justice. IAMC-Charlotte seeks to reach out to Indian Muslims living in Charlotte to strive for Inter-Community understanding with focus on Indian Diaspora. For Further Details: Ashfaq Mehdi - 704.904.5778 iamc-charlotte@yahoogroups.com

Probasi of Charlotte Probasi’s goal is to organize cultural and educational program related to Bengal in the Charlotte area, to increase Bengali cultural awareness, and to provide community servic. For Further Details: Swapan Nandi - 704.708.5993 Anindita Paul Bhunia - 704.360.2326 welcome@probasi.org www.probasi.org

Indian Performing arts association of Charlotte (IPaaC) IPAAC promotes classical Hindustani music by inviting wellknown artists from India and oﬀers music classes at various locations in Charlotte. For Further Details about IPAAC: Chaula Jain - 704.248.1515 contact@ipaac.org www.saathee.com/ipaac Saathee.com

sahaja yoga Meditation Sahaja Yoga Meditation classes are free to attend and meant for all age groups who desire to ﬁnd his or her true self, which is full of peace, joy of life and love for others. Sahaja Yoga was founded and developed by Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi and teaches 90

December 2017

Blooming Buds 18 Exclusive Mandaps to offer!!

Decorations and Flowers for All Occasions

CALL FO DISC R OUN TS

Extravagant Mandap Decorator WE PROVIDE • Mandaps, domes, backdrops, torans & entrance gates • Ganesh murtis & elaborate hand-carved furniture • Bridal chairs & chair covers • Decorations for stages, garbas, weddings and all other occasions! • Masala DJs Entertainment professional sound & LED lighting

919.465.7265

Best Service with Competitive Prices! Call Manju Nigam

2310 South Miami Blvd., Ste 236 Durham, NC 27703 919.225.3963 | www.rbrownllc.com

www.bloomingbudsnc.com

The Chiropractic Doctors at ChiroCarolina have a combined experience of over 50 years. During that time we've helped thousands of patients find relief from debilitating pain. The secret to our success? Compassion • Attention • Professionalism

Dr. Ferzaan A. Ali

TREATING CONDITIONS SUCH AS: Low back/Leg pain Neck/Arm pain Headaches Sports Injuries Auto Accident Injuries Arthritis/Fibromyalgia Neck/Low back disc injuries Work Related Injuries

Accepting major insurance: Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Health Care, Med Cost, Cigna, Medicare and others. Dr. Henry E. Rice

Our doctors are fluent in English, Hindi, Urdu and Spanish 537 W. Sugar Creek Rd. • Charlotte, North Carolina 28213 Phone: 704-598-8040 • Fax: 704-509-0915

Saathee.com

www.CharlotteChiropracticClinic.com 91

December 2017

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

south Park Cricket Club (sPCC) The South Park Cricket Club is a group of gentlemen who play competitive cricket for fun. SPCC is based in Charlotte and has been a part of the Carolina Cricket League since 2010. For Further Details: anishtr@hotmail.com www.southparkcc.org

very simple techniques of meditation. Sessions are conducted weekly or biweekly at 5935 Hickory Grove Rd, Charlotte. For Further Details: www.meetup.com/SYCharoletteNC/

sangamithra Foundation A Charlotte-based charity organization formed by a group of people who strive to make a diﬀerence in society. The team has taken the path of identifying the needs of underprivileged communities in India and provides support to meet those needs. Sangamithra works collectively towards realizing its vision. For Further Details: info@sangamithra.org www.sangamithra.org www.facebook.com/SangamithraFoundation

srishti of Charlotte Srishti works to fulﬁll the NC community’s need for togetherness and the desire to showcase Bengali culture, literature, theatre, music and popular arts. Literally, the word Srishti means an act of creation. Srishti welcomes and brings together people of varied cultures, ethnicity, languages, and backgrounds who are interested in East Indian traditions. For Further Details: Santanu Sarkar - santanu_kumar@yahoo.com 704. 541.3451 www.srishtiofcharlotte.org

shanti niketan senior Center of Carolinas The Center values diversity, holistic health, peaceful living, civic and community engagement, especially for under-served populations including Refugees, Immigrants, and Minorities (RIM). Eﬀorts are made to support a rapidly diversifying population with the understanding that a vibrant diverse population adds to the strength and well-being of the whole community. Located at 7701 Wallace Ln., Charlotte. For Further Details: NimishBhatt@bellsouth.net / 704-491-1186 uisac.org

telugu association of greater Charlotte area (tagCa) TAGCA was formed with an intention of preserving and promoting the Telugu cultural heritage and traditions among the Telugu speaking people residing in Greater Charlotte area. The association organizes social and cultural events and festivals that reﬂect the Telugu people culture from India. For Further Details: pr@tagca.org www.tagca.org

shree swaminarayan satsang Mandal vadtal On the 1st Saturday of every month, Shree Swaminarayan Satsang Mandal Vadtal has kirtans and bhajans at the Hindu Center of Charlotte at 5pm. After the bhajans, there is Aarti and Mahaprasad. In addition, on the 3rd Sunday of every month, an additional Satsang Sabha is held at a sponsor’s house from 3 5pm. For Further Details: Divyesh Chauhan - 704.965.9735 Sanjay Savaliya - 704.779.7574 admin@issvcharlotte.org issvcharlotte.org

trimurti temple devasthanam The temple grounds oﬀer many areas to explore including 14 sanathis with traditional Mandabams for various Hindu deities. Open daily with a Morning Puja at 10am and Evening Puja at 7pm. Sunday Abhisekhams at 11am as well as other special pujas. The temple is located at 6519 Beatties Ford Road, Charlotte, NC, 28216. For Further Details: 980.219.7556 contact@trimurtitemple.org www.trimurtitemple.org

shri Rang avadhut Parivar (Parspar devo Bhav) Devotees of Guru Dattatraya Rang Avadhut and Shri Prem Avadhut meet on Thurs from 6-8pm in Charlotte for recital of “Datta-Bavani,” singing devotional Dattatraya Bhajans and reading “Guru-Lilamrut.” Info about meetings, literature, Videos, as well as biographies of Nareshwar Ashram and Shri Avadhut’s lives are available. For Further Details: Bharat Shah - 704.724.6247 Nagesh Patel - 704.399.7805

vallabh Pushti samaj of Carolinas (vPsC) VPSC’s objective is to ﬁll devotional need for hundreds of Vaishnavs in Carolinas to worship and pray together, to observe and celebrate festivals, and to engage in humanitarian and educational activities. Paath and Bhajan recitations are held on the 2nd Sunday of each month from 4 - 6pm. A VYO Youth (ages 6-14) educational Meet is also scheduled on the 1st & 3rd Saturdays of each month. The Shrinath Dham Haveli is located at 1006 Vickie Lane, Matthews, NC 28104. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/vallabh-pushti-vpsc

sindhi association of the Carolinas The Sindhi Association of the Carolinas (SAC) organizes religious, cultural, community, and social events in Charlotte. SAC also sends donations for the needy to the schools in India for Scholarships and for camp refugees in India. For Further Details: sindhiassociationcarolinas@gmail.com 704.779.2396 Saathee.com

vibha Charlotte Vibha Charlotte is volunteer driven organization dedicated to create a brighter future for underprivileged children. This group came together through a strong belief in Vibha’s mission and resolved to create a positive societal impact in India. The group works to organize social events that spread awareness and raise 92

December 2017

Anklets

*Expires: 1.02.2018

Necklaces

Bangles

Bracelets

Earrings

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

For Further Details: Gopal - 336.509.5943 Hasmukh - 336.971.5594 (Membership Help) indianac14@gmail.com www.indianac.org

funds to further the organization’s mission. For Further Details: Volunteers@charlotte.vibha.org sites.vibha.org/Charlotte

Greensboro

Indo-american society of nC (IasnC) The objectives of IASNC are to support the Indian, South Asian and American community residing in Greensboro, NC and vicinity and other individuals interested in learning the culture, traditions, and arts of India. Speciﬁcally, IASNC promotes IndoAmerican cultural, arts and sports events and also school based volunteering activities. For Further Details: Krishna Balu - balu4428@inﬁonline.net - 336.292.9462 www.iasofnc.org

art of Living (greensboro) The Art of Living Foundation offers programs to uncover the strength, peace, and joy that lie at the core of every human being. Part I courses are offered regularly in Chapel Hill, Raleigh, and Greensboro which cover breathing techniques to eliminate stress & tension; skills for improving relationships at home and at work; practical wisdom to get the most out of life; insight into the laws that govern the mind & emotions; low-impact yoga and the breathing-based technique called Sudarshan Kriya, or the healing breath. For Further Details: Sonal Chhawchharia - sonal.chhawchharia@gmail.com Puja Verma - puja_usa@yahoo.com www.artofliving.org/us-en/greensboro

Indo-us Cultural association of Winston-salem The Indo-US Cultural Association’s primary mission is to increase awareness of the cultural heritage of India which is tremendously rich in its diversity and history. The Association seeks to reach out to the thriving Indian-American community within the Piedmont and Triad areas to share the vibrant Indian culture and promote cross-cultural understanding. For Further Details: Manish Kumar - kumar.manish1983@gmail.com - 336.565.6427 www.indouswinston.org

BaPs shri swaminarayan Mandir greensboro BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir of Greensboro features activities which include Sunday Sabhas: Shishu (Toddlers) sabha: 4 - 5pm; Bal/Balika sabha: 4:15 - 5:30pm; Kishore sabha: 2 - 3:30pm; Main sabha: 4 - 6pm; Gujarati classes: 2:30 - 3:45pm and Arti at 6pm followed by Mahaprasad. Fresh Shayona snacks available on Sundays. Located at 922 Gallimore Dairy Road, High Point, NC. For Further Details: 336.355.9798 bapsgreensboro@gmail.com www.baps.org/Greensboro

Life Mission, usa This ashram has been established to provide helpful beneﬁts for all - physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. All these beneﬁts can be achieved through the natural remedies of yoga therapy, Ayurveda, naturopathy and diet. The ashram is located at 8136 NC Highway 119, South Mebane, NC 27302. For Further Details: 336.421.0690 Dr. Manoj - 848.459.7401 lifemissionusa@gmail.com www.lifemissionusa.org

gujarati Cultural association of Piedmont (gCaP) The Gujarati Cultural Association of Piedmont serves the Asian Indian community through sponsored events, cultural, educational and social programs. Located at 127 Landmark Drive, Greensboro, NC 27410 For Further Details: Janak Patel - 919.799.1603 www.gcap.us

Quan am Buddhist temple All interested in Buddhism are welcome. The temple is located at 1410 Glendale Dr, Greensboro, NC 27407 For Further Details: www.ChuaQuanAm.com

India association of the triad (IatnC) The objective of the Association is to promote social, cultural and educational interests of its members, develop understanding between members of the Indian community and other residents of the Triad area, and make the latter aware of issues of concern to the Indian community. For Further Details: committee@iatnc.org www.iatnc.org

Indian association of the Carolinas (IaC) The mission of the IAC is to promote the Indian culture by hosting community events such local picnics, Diwali and Garba and similar celebration and sports events. Their Center is located in Winston-Salem. Saathee.com

sri Mata Hindu temple of north Carolina The temple strives to meet the community’s Religious, Spiritual, and Literary Needs. Panchayatana Puja is the system of worship in the Smarta Sampradaya of Hinduism. It consists of the worship of ﬁve deities: Shiva, Vishnu, Devi, Surya and Ganesha. One of these deities is kept in the center and the other four surround it. This Temple is going to be Shakhi Panchayatana model where Sri Sri Lalithaambika is the presiding deity at the Center and the 4 intercardinal (ordinal) directions will have other shrines. The Temple is located at 8535 Lasater Road, Clemmons, NC 27012 Regular Events: Weekdays: 6:30 - 7:30pm / Sat & Sun: 10:30am - 12:30pm 94

December 2017

Special Offers for New Patients

704-536-0269 $29 $ $ $

45 39

mo.

New Patient Dental Exam (Save $153) *

New Patient Dental Cleaning (Save $31) *

New Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cleaning & Exam (Save $182) *

Our Monthly Preventive Care Patient Loyalty Payment Program

Adult HealthyCare (13 and older) *

Periodontal maintenance requires enrollment in the Adult PerioCare patient loyalty payment program.

*Expires 1/30/18, Call for Details

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

every Sunday which includes Bhajans and spiritual discourses: Adults: 4pm, Young Men (Ages 23-36) - 3pm, Young Women (Ages 23-36) - 4pm, Teens - 4:30pm, and Children - 5pm. Location: 1020 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC 27560 For Further Details: w w w . s a a t h e e . c o m / b a p s - s h r i - s wa m i n a r a ya n - m a n d i r morrisville-nc

For Further Details on Sri Mata temple of NC: 336.LOK.MATA (565.6282) info@matahindutemple.org www.matahindutemple.org

sri sathya sai Baba Center (greensboro) The Sri Sathya Sai Baba Center regularly conducts Sai Bhajans, Study Circles, various service activities and SSE classes (for students) every Sunday from 9:45am - 12:15pm. For Further Details: Swami Rajendran - 908.875.6964 Dr. Varatharajah - 336.851.9150 www.sathyasaicentergso.org

Bengali association of north Carolina (BanC) The Bengali Association of North Carolina (BANC) seeks to promote Bengali culture, language, music, arts and social activities by oﬀering varieties of programs for members of INDO-American community within North Carolina and adjacent states. The association is organized exclusively for charitable, cultural, social and educational purposes. For Further Details: exec@banc-online.org www.banc-online.org

Winston-greensboro Cricket Club (WgCC) Everyone from Triad Area in North Carolina, from the cities of Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem and all nearby locations are welcome to come and join the club. The goals of the WGCC are fun, ﬁtness, and friendship. WGCC is also a member of the Carolina Cricket League. Practice Sessions during the regular season are held every Wednesday at 5:30pm in Weston Park, Winston-Salem. For Further Details: www.wgcricketclub.com

Bhartiya senior Citizens of nC (BsCnC) The Organization for senior citizen of Indian origin that are age 60 years and over. BSCNC members meet on the 2nd Saturday of each month at the Cary senior center in Bond Park in Cary, NC from 10 am to 3 pm. The next meeting will be on Saturday, December 9th, 2017. The group will celebrate Christmas and also welcome new board members. For Further Details: Yogesh Gandhi (president) 910.391.1809 Mahendra Patel (secretary) 919.793.6588.

Raleigh

art of Living (Raleigh) Art of Living gives practical knowledge and techniques to unlock deepest potential and bring fullness to life. The techniques are effective in reducing stress levels and increase health, physical energy, enthusiasm, self-esteem, awareness, and clarity of mind. Advance courses are also available once every few months. Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravishankar’s mission is to create a violence free, stress free society and One World Family. The Center is located at 4000 Bear Cat Way, Suite 102, Morrisville, NC 27560. For Further Details: 919.659.5939 / rdu@us.artofliving.org www.artofliving.org/us-en/raleigh

Chinmaya Mission Raleigh-durham (CM Rdu) Chinmaya Mission was founded by Swami Chinmayananda. Not satisﬁed with degrees in literature and law or with other worldly aspirations, he pursued the spiritual path under the guidance of Swami Shivananda and Swami Tapovanam. Dedicated to spreading the knowledge of Vedanta and other Hindu scriptures and to provide to individuals and the practical means for spiritual growth and happiness. CM RDU conducts weekly discourses (Satsanga-s) and study groups for adults, and classes for youth (Yuvakendra) and children (Bala Vihar). For Further Details: www.chinmaya-RDU.org

dada Bhagwan Foundation (Raleigh) Every living being is in constant pursuit of happiness; no one likes suﬀering. This search ends only when the source of eternal happiness is found. It can be attained through realizing your true Self. A path to eternal happiness was discovered by Gnani Purush A. M. Patel, also known as Dada Bhagwan and it was revealed to the world as Akram Vignan, a spiritual science. This spiritual science is based on the foundation of Self Realization. This unique knowledge bestows a new vision which helps us bring solutions in practical day-to-day circumstances that leads to harmony and happiness in life. Regular satsang events at HSNC, Saturdays 5 - 7pm. General Satsang followed by Aarti and Prasad. Satsang Venue: HSNC, 309 Aviation Pkwy, Rooms 5 & 6, Morrisville, NC. For Further Details: 877.505.3232 x 1003 wcraleigh@us.dadabhagwan.org www.dadabhagwan.org

assamese association of north Carolina AANC is a Socio Cultural organization with the objective of promoting and providing understanding of Assamese Culture and Language. AANC celebrates Assamese festivals and organizes cultural activities like Bihu Dance, music, songs and social get-togethers with essential touch of Assamese culture. Everyone from Assam as well as anyone with any connection to or interest in Assam or Assamese culture is most welcomed. For Further Details: Nilaskhi Phukan - 919.949.1618 - nilakshi_phukan@yahoo.com 919.200.4020 assameseassociation.nc@gmail.com

BaPs shri swaminarayan Mandir (Raleigh) A spiritual, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to improving society through individual growth by fostering the Hindu ideals of faith, unity, and selﬂess service. Activities include: Daily Arti - 7am & 6:30 pm; Weekly Satsang Sabha held Saathee.com

December 2017

open everyday for lunch & dinner Lunch Buffet EVERY SUNDAY

Award Winning Caterer Private Parties

Ballantyne Village 14815 Ballantyne Village Way, Suite 170 Charlotte, NC 28277

"Cuisine of India"

Best New Restaurant in Charlotte 2010 - Creative Loafing Best Caterer - BOB Awards 2012

704.369.5777 www.TheBlueTaj.com

Modern Indian Cuisine

311 East Blvd. Charlotte, NC 28203 704.333.0063 www.CopperRestaurant.com Now open everyday for lunch & dinner

Rated in Top 21 Restaurants in Charlotte - Charlotte Magazine

Best Indian Restaurant in Charlotte 2007-2015 - BOB Awards Saathee.com

December 2017

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

gokul Bhajan & vedic studies (Raleigh) Weekly satsang of parents and children singing bhajans and glorifying past times of Lord Krishna. Satsang every Friday 7pm - 9pm at the HSNC in Morrisville, NC with a dinner afterwards. Gokulam Learning Center in Durham every 1st & 3rd Saturday from 5pm - 9pm with a dinner afterwards. Children learn slokas, learn presentation skills, manage and lead various projects such as book distribution, charity for cow protection, food for the poor, and prison seva. For Further Details: bkdasa@gmail.com 919.491.9536 www.gokulbhajan.com

datta yoga Center (Raleigh) Mission: Spread the teachings of Sadguru Sri Ganapathi Sachchidananda Swamiji of Mysore. Activities: Namasankeertana - Bhajans written, composed and sung by Pujya Sri Swamiji. Kriya yoga classes conducted by Pujya Sri Swamiji-trained teachers from India. The group meets on the ﬁrst Saturday of every month and every major festival day for Satsang and Namasankeertana (divine singing). For Further Details: Suresh and Madhavi Kota - 919.434.1604 www.dycusa.org

duke diya Diya is a Duke University student organization that committed to providing a forum for interaction through events relating to South Asian Americans and anyone interested in South Asian culture, politics or economics. Duke Diya represents the six major nations of South Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Social events like club mixers and semiformals, especially with other Duke cultural groups and South Asian organizations at UNC and NC State, are also an extremely enjoyable aspect of life with Diya. For Further Details: diya.duke@gmail.com www.dukediya.com

gurdwara atlantic Coast sikh association One of the oldest Sikh associations in the Southeastern US. The association meets every Sunday for Diwans along with Akhand Paths celebrated on appropriate dates. Classes for Punjabi and religious studies are held for children at the same time. Located at 3108 Sparger Road, Durham, NC 27705. For Further Details: Yadvinder Singh - 919.477.7035 acsikhassociation.org

Heartfulness Meditation (triangle) Heartfulness meditation is a heart-based meditation system open to all. It is a simple system of meditation centered on the supremacy of heart in our makeup that helps one realize the ultimate potential within oneself. Regular practice under capable guidance enables aspirants to progressively experience the sublime presence of the divine in their daily lives. Heartfulness meditation is freely oﬀered to seekers worldwide through Shri Ram Chandra Mission. In the Triangle area, group meditations are held on Sunday at 8:30am & Wed at 7pm. For Further Details: Raj Solanki - raj_solanki@yahoo.com www.heartfulness.org

eKtaa student organization (nCsu) EKTAA (meaning unity) is the South Asian Student Organization at North Carolina State University (NCSU). The organization was founded in 1970. The motto is “unity within diversity.” EKTAA strives to spread culture and heritage of South Asia all over the campus as well as the local community and the organization works hand-in-hand with many organizations on and oﬀ the NCSU campus, as well as South Asian organizations from area universities. For Further Details: ektaaexec@ektaa.org www.ektaa.org

Heritage India association of nC (HIanC) Heritage India Association of NC aims at providing Indian cultural experience through performing arts, cultural arts, ﬁne arts & crafts of India. Its mission is “to preserve and promote Indian heritage and culture.” During the year, HIANC presents several annual events such as Heritage India Festival in April, Gandhi Jayanti in October, Children’s Day in November, and also participates in the International Fest of Raleigh in October. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/heritage-india-association

geet Bazaar Radio (nCsu) Every Sunday morning from 10am - 12pm on WKNC 88.1 FM, join hosts Afroz Taj and John Caldwell, for a wide variety of music from South Asia, including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and beyond. They specialize in the music of the Indian ﬁlm industry, with lots of ghazals, qawwalis, bhajans, and Indi-Pop to round out the mix. You can listen to Geet Bazaar worldwide using the NC State Student Media App or live streaming on wknc.org. Geet Bazaar will also publicize community events free of charge. For Further Details: Dr. Afroz Taj & John Caldwell - 919.851.1119 geetbazaar@wknc.org

Hindi vikas Mandal of nC Hindi Vikas Mandal (HVM) based in the Raleigh-Triangle area, promotes study and appreciation of the Hindi Language, and strives to foster Indian culture and traditions through Hindi. HVM has special focus on the youth for the preservation of Indian heritage. Every year HVM organizes Kavi-Sammelan (Poetry Reading); Independence Day Function, Dushera Festival and a members’ picnic. HVM also conducts weekly Hindi classes (10:30 - 11:30am on Saturdays) at HSNC for children. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/hindi-vikas-mandal

geM Raleigh Church of god Come and join in every Sunday from 10:45am to 1pm. They have worship services, prayer meetings, Sunday school, and much more. Located at 3331 Blue Ridge Road, Raleigh. For Further Details: Pastor Thankachan Mathai - 919.395.6208 globalem@gmail.com Saathee.com

December 2017

Helping children develop to their fullest potential through a secure, nurturing, loving and stimulating environment.

Testimonial: Our kids enjoy and feel the daycare as home. Friendly staff, great curriculum, cleanliness.The exceptional TK, Pre-K and KG programs helped earn our son admission to the prestigious Metrolina regional scholars academy. Thank You, Mr & Mrs Ramesh

5 STAR rated center

Now enrolling & accepting applications! • P.T. & F.T. Preschool and Transitional Kindergarten • Full Day Kindergarten

Private school recognized and in compliance with the NC Public School system

Privately owned and operated Low staff : child ratios Offering programs for infant – 5 years After school programs for 5 – 10 years Intimate, home-like environment Bi-lingual learning opportunities for all ages, every day Hindu Vegetarian Meals

14115 Lancaster Highway Charlotte, NC 28277

704.540.2250 www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com ROOMS AVAILABLE FOR RENT ON WEEKENDS TO INSTRUCTORS for Indian Dance, Language teachers (Hindi, Punjabi, Gujarati) or SAT prep classes. Also looking for instructors for the above. Call Mayra 704.540.2250

www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com www.ShiningStarsAcademy.com

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

Hindu society of north Carolina The Hindu Society of NC temple is open daily from 7am - 9pm. Morning Aarti: Mon-Fri 10.30am, Sat-Sun 10am. Evening Aarti: Mon-Fri 7pm, Sat-Sun 6pm. There are many other regular events taking place at the temple. All major religious celebrations are observed. Facility rentals are also available. Activities: Yoga, Hinduism and Meditation classes; Weekend Community Classes: Jain pathshala, Hindi classes, Sanskar Gurkul Classes, Tamil classes, Balmukund classes; Youth Aﬀairs: Ohm Squad is the youth wing of HSNC involved in the youth activities like camp, games, craft and arts. Located at 309 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC and serves the greater Triangle area. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/hsnc

Humsub HumSub is dedicated to sharing the social and cultural traditions of India with the residents of the Research Triangle Park and North Carolina. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/hum-sub

Immanuel assembly of god A full Gospel Christian church serving the Indian / South Asian community in the Raleigh area of North Carolina. Service is oﬀered Sundays at 10:30am & Bible Study is Wednesdays at 7pm. The Church is located at 5419 S. Alston Ave, Durham, NC 27713. For Further Details: Pastor Sam Daniel 919.442.8537 thechurch@immanuelassembly.org samimmanuelag@gmail.com www.immanuelassembly.org Indian Classical Music & dance society (ICMds) ICMDS is dedicated to promoting Indian classical music and dance in the Triangle area by inviting top artists from all over the world to perform. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/icmds

Indo-american Friendship Foundation The foundation works to improve Friendship between the People of India and USA through Cultural and Technological Exchanges. The Center is located at 1413 Boxwood Lane, Apex, NC 27502 For Further Details: Dr. Subhas C. Mohapatra - President 919.362.7653 iaﬀ100@gmail.com www.iaﬀ1.org

Instepp InStepp Inc. is a community-based, nonprofit organization located in Durham. The organization has served women residing in the Triangle area since 2007. InStepp offers long-term support and training to women who are victims of domestic violence, sexual assault and human trafficking; women who are transitioning back into the workforce following separation or Saathee.com

divorce; women transitioning from prison or jail, and immigrant women, including women from South Asian cultures, who are victims of crimes. For Further Details: 919.680.8000 919.680.8282 info@instepp.org www.instepp.org

International Community Church ICC is a worship center for people from India and neighboring countries. Church services at Reedy Creek Baptist Church 1524 N. Harrison Avenue Cary, NC 27513 For Further Details: 919.233.2900 Pastor: Joseph B. Jesudason www.icc-nc.org

International Hindi association IHA promotes Hindi language and literature and has chapters all over the United States. The Raleigh Chapter periodically organizes Kavi Sammelans with local and indigenous talents. Open to those interested in listening to poetry or in reciting poetry. For Further Details: Saroj Sharma - 919.460.7830 / 919.656.5224 www.hindi.org

IsKCon new goloka temple of nC New Goloka temple is a member of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Visitors are welcome any day of the week to come have darshan of Sri Sri Radha Golokananda. Every Sunday at 4pm, there is a special program consisting of arati, kirtan, Bhagavad-gita discourse, and a prasadam feast. New Goloka also provides educational classes and programs for children and adults. New Goloka Daily Darshan Times 4:30 5am, 7:15am - 1pm, 4:15 - 5:45pm, 7 - 8pm. Saturday and Sunday Darshan open from 7:15am - 8pm. The Radha-Krishna temple is in a rural setting at 1032 Dimmocks Mill Rd. Hillsborough, NC. For Further Details: 919.732.6492 newgoloka108@gmail.com iskconnc@gmail.com / www.newgoloka.com

Jain study Center of north Carolina (JsCnC) The JSCNC was organized to study and understand Jain religion, philosophy, rituals, and literature and to educate the children. Over the years the Center has participated in many activities for youths and adults, where an environment is created making members feel like a part of the family. Jain pathshala and swadhyay are held routinely for children and adults respectively. For Further Details: jscnc101@gmail.com jscnc.org

Kiran, Inc Kiran serves and empowers South Asian victims of domestic violence in NC by helping them rebuild their lives and ending the cycle of violence. Although domestic violence is rarely talked 100

December 2017

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

about in South Asian communities, it is a rampant and preventable public health problem. Kiran is passionate about promoting healthy family relationships in South Asian communities and raising awareness on the prevalence of domestic violence in South Asian homes through outreach and advocacy. Kiran’s core services comprise of a 24 hour free and conﬁdential hotline, crisis counseling, legal advocacy, translation assistance, resource referrals, skills development and other culturally sensitive support services needed to meet the unique challenges of South Asian victims. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/kiran-inc www.kiraninc.org 24 hours Crisis line: 877-NC-KIRAN (877-625-4726) kiran@kiraninc.org Oﬃce: 919.831.4203

Krishnadham usa Krishnadham USA’s mission is to foster richness of Hindu cultural heritage in our children and to provide learning experiences on our cultural values to visitors and residents alike under the guidance of Vaishnavacharya Shri Dwarkeshlalji Mahoday. Krishnadham will be established on a 16 acre sized tract located at 795 Beaver Creek Road in Apex, North Carolina (in Chatham County) not far from Jordan Lake. Krishnadham USA is having weekly Satsangs and Monthly manoraths to celebrate various Pushtimargiya festivals. They meet at 4000 Bearcat Way, Suite 102 in Morrisville, NC 27560 on Saturdays from 5:30pm to 7:00pm for Satsang. Everyone is invited to attend. For Further Details: Hemant Sura - 919.608.2412 krishnadham.nc@gmail.com

Maitri (nCsu) A student organization at NC State that aims at unifying various cultures at university. The organization works to help and support Indian students at NC State, but also creates opportunities for them to immerse in the global culture while retaining their rich Indian identity. For Further Details: maitri.ncsu@gmail.com www.maitrincsu.org www.facebook.com/MaitriAtNcsu

Pakistani-american anjuman The North Carolina Pakistani-American Anjuman (NCPAA) is a non-political, cultural and social organization that strives to promote the presence of the people from Pakistan living in the Triangle area of North Carolina. Their mission is to provide cultural and social interaction for the families and individuals of the Pakistani community and to oﬀer a variety of programs and services to its members. For Further Details: www.ncpaa.org

Pratham - triangle area Pratham is a grass-roots organization that works towards universalizing primary education in India. It is one of the largest NGOs in ﬁeld of literacy movement in India. Pratham continues to evolve, grow and works to meet the continually changing needs of the children it educates. The NC chapter actively aims Saathee.com

to collaborate with individuals, local organizations and community associations and seeks ideas, volunteers and resources to deliver the vision of “Every Child in School and Learning Well.” For Further Details: Sri Rajgopalan - rajagoph@yahoo.com Ravi Sundarajan- ravisrajan@yahoo.com Rajeev Thalla - rajeev.thalla@gmail.com www.prathamusa.org

Raleigh sai Center Parthi Sai devotees of Triangle area meet every Sunday from 4 6:15pm in the Mini-Hall of Hindu Bhavan in Morrisville. There is also a study circle, Bhajan Practice, Veda Chanting etc. between 4 - 5pm depending on the week, followed by bhajans from 5 - 6:15pm. The center carries out several service activities as well, including Human Values Education (SSE) classes for the children of diﬀerent age groups. For Further Details: rsc.president@yahoo.com raleighsaicenter.org

Ramakrishna vedanta society of nC The Ramakrishna Vedanta Society draws inspiration from the timeless, philosophical wisdom of the Vedanta as practiced and preached in the modern day by Sri Ramakrishna, Sri Sarada Devi and Swami Vivekananda. Practical Vedanta and the message of the harmony of religions and the spiritual oneness are studied. Regardless of background and/or knowledge the organization welcomes participants. The address is 3109 Globe Road Morrisville, NC 27560. For Further Details: 919.412.8304 vedantanc@gmail.com www.vedantanc.org

RtP Maharashtra Mandal The Mandal is a home away from home for Marathi-speaking people. The goal of the Mandal is to advocate the vibrant culture, the rich heritage and the language of Maharashtra. The Mandal is dedicated to showcase the cultural, social and traditional attributes of Maharashtra to the local community through variety of entertaining programs, and events such as Makar Sankrant, Shiv Jayanti, Gudi Padwa, Ganesh Festival and Diwali. For Further Details: mail@rtpmm.org www.rtpmm.org

sahaja Meditation Ongoing meetings, seminars and workshops are available in Raleigh. There is never a charge for Sahaja Meditation instruction. RSVP in meetup: Sahaja-Meditation-Triangle-Group Thursdays at 7:30pm. Located at 9308 Fairbanks Dr, Raleigh, NC. For Further Details: balaram.krishna@gmail.com 919.757.3135 www.sahajamediation.com sewa RtP Sewa RTP - a chapter of Sewa International - is a team of

102

December 2017

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

volunteers who organize various activities - ranging from local community service to fundraisers for developmental projects in India. Currently Sewa RTP has following activities on monthly basis: Sewa Day, Workshops / Seminars, Assisting Community in Emergency situations, Chapter Meetings - 3rd Thursday of every month. Sewa International USA is a Hindu faith-based humanitarian service organization. For Further Details: www.sewausa.org/chapter/raleigh/raleigh-overview

shree swaminarayan Hindu temple (Isso) ISSO’s primary objective is to advance the Sanatan Dharma in accordance with the principles and teachings of the Original Shree Swaminarayan Sampradaya, founded and ordained by Bhagwan Shree Swaminarayan Himself. They organize a weekly “Satsang Sabha,” every Saturday, which includes Kirtan bhakti, Katha, Aarti and Mahaprasad. Temple is now open daily 8am to 12pm and 4pm to 9pm; Daily Sandhya Aarti: 7pm; Weekly Satsang Sabha: Saturday 5pm to 8pm. The Mandir is located at 500 SE Maynard Road, Cary, NC 27511 For Further Details: www.saathee.com/issonc

sky Meditation and Kaya Kalpa yoga Beneﬁts include longevity, wellness and stress management. Triangle Sky Meditation group holds weekly group meditation and Simpliﬁed Physical Exercises every Friday in Triangle area. SKY Meditation initiation and SKY Kaya Kalpa Yoga Courses are held several times a year for anyone 14 years and above. For Further Details: Rajendran Kailasam - 919.824.8429 sky.cary@yahoo.com www.vethathiri.edu.in

south Indian Fine arts academy (sIFaa) SIFAA is a non-proﬁt organization that works to arrange and promote concerts and performances in the Triangle and Triad areas, concentrating on Carnatic music. For Further Details: sifaa.music@gmail.com www.sifaa.org

sv temple of north Carolina The temple is built on over nine acres of centrally connected triangle area. This grand tribute to Lord Venkateswara and his consorts is designed to exacting standards of shilpa shasthra and features the only shrine in North America to incorporate abodes to Lord Viswaksena and Lord Sudarshana/Lord Narasimha as part of Srinivasa Parivaram. The temple rituals are performed in accordance with Pancharathra Agama Shastra. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/sv-temple-nc

tamil Cultural association of north Carolina (tCa nC) TCA NC was formed for the purpose of providing youths with exposure to Tamil culture. Everyone is invited to join TCA and become part of the organization promoting Tamil culture in the Triangle area. For Further Details: tca_nc@yahoo.com www.tcanc.org Saathee.com

triangle area telugu association (tata) TATA is committed to building a vibrant Telugu Community and promoting Telugu culture and language in the Triangle area of North Carolina. For Further Details: www.triangletelugu.org

triangle Bangladesh society (tBsnC) TBSNC strives to arrange musical programs by artists who have captured the hearts and minds of millions of Bengali, Urdu and Hindi-speaking music fans all around the globe. For Further Details: Ishtiaquem@gmail.com www.tbsnc.org

triangle gujarati association (tga) TGA’s mission is to promote and serve Gujarati culture in the Triangle area by organizing various events and programs throughout the year and impart Gujarati culture and language on the youth. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/triangle-gujarati-association

triangle vegetarian society (tvs) The mission of TVS is to build a sense of community between current vegetarians and people who are interested in vegetarianism and have a forum for a discussion of issues. The Triangle Vegetarian Society was founded in 1986 in the Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) area of NC to promote the nutritional, ethical, environmental, and other aspects of vegetarianism. They aim to build a sense of community among people of varying interests in plant-based diets, encouraging healthy, sustainable, and peaceful lifestyle choices. For Further Details: barman@cs.unc.edu www.trianglevegsociety.org triangle vipassana Meditation Vipassana, which means to see things as they are, is one of India’s most ancient techniques and was taught 2500 years ago as a universal remedy for universal ills. We holds weekly group sittings in Cary on every Saturday. These sittings are only meant for old students who have completed 10 day Vipassana course as taught by S N Goenka in tradition of Sayagyi U Ba Khin. For Further Details: Hitesh & Vaibhavi Parekh - 732.213.9660 / 919.601.3555 carync.sittings@gmail.com www.dhamma.org

urdu Majlis Urdu Majlis, the Triangle’s Urdu Literary Society, meets monthly on the campus of UNC: Chapel Hill. Meetings include discussions of the life and works of major South Asian poets as well as opportunities to share original poetry and other writing. Urdu Majlis is co-sponsored by the Carolina Asia Center and the South Asia Section of the UNC Dept of Asian Studies. It is an intellectual endeavor with no political or religious aﬃliations. For Further Details: Afroz Taj - taj@unc.edu - 919.851.1119 Seema & Ashraf Faruqi - seemafaruqi@hotmail.com 919.596.4792 104

December 2017

Large Selection of Indian Groceries

“Experience the World Taste”

Puja Boutique open Inside

We carry all Major Brands!

Fresh Vegetables Every Day!

Around The World Market 6514 N. Tryon St. Charlotte, NC 28213

2 minutes from IKEA, Beside Autobell, Across from Parks Chevrolet

704-494-0044

Other Locations

Raleigh 67514 Hillsborough St. Raleigh, NC 27606 919-859-5403

Durham 1708 E. NC Hwy 54 Durham, NC 27713 919-572-5599

Open 7 Days a Week | 10am-10pm www.aroundtheworldnc.com

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS

vaishnav samaj of triangle area A group of like-minded devotees who meet for religious worship and understand Pushti Marg Principles at large. Regular Bhajan recitations are held 2nd Sunday of the month from 4-6pm and Seniors are requested to encourage youngsters to participate in the activities. For Further Details: Arvindbhai Shah - 919.233.7677 Vithalbhai Shah - 919.803.9027

vraj education Raleigh Kendra The Vraj Education Raleigh Kendra is conducting comprehensive weekly teaching of Hinduism and Pushtibhakti Marg backed by Vraj Temple Pennsylvania. Raleigh Vaishnav children will get an opportunity to recognize, learn, and exercise Pushtimarg guidelines and leverage rich Shri Vallabh Mahaprabhuji heritage to improve individual life style. For Further Details: vraj.raleigh@gmail.com for timing and location information. www.facebook.com/VrajEducationCenter/

Regional

ekal vidyalaya Foundation of India Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of India (EVFI) was established to help in the overall development of the remote tribal and rural villages in India. Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA along with EVFI is committed to the cause of eradicating illiteracy from tribal areas. Education is the key to self-esteem, self-sustenance, and economic freedom. The Carolinas Region of the EVFI USA conducts fundraising and awareness programs in Raleigh & Columbia. For Further Details: Southeast Regional President: Chander M. Aggarwal - cmaggarwal44@gmail.com - 407.454.3739 Carolinas Regional President: Janak Dalal - jaydalalcolumbia@gmail.com - 803.665.4050

grihastha Family Institute The Grihastha Family Institute has a mission of preparing everyone with the basics and nuances of marriage and family management, and to compensate for the loss of traditional structures, norms and methods that used to support the family structure. 3 Day workshop camps and private consultations are available. For Further Details: www.grihastha.org

Hindu society of eastern nC (greenville, nC) The temple celebrates major festivals and holds regular bhajan seesions and Geeta study. For Further Details: Temple - 252.752.2670 B.S. Srivatsa - 508.654.0360 Hindutemplenc@gmail.com

IsKCon temple of the Holy name in Prabhupada village The Temple of the Holy Name, situated in a very peaceful, rural area, is a member of the International Society for Krishna Saathee.com

Consciousness (ISKCON). They welcome you, your friends and family to take darshan of Sri Sri Parama Karuna Nitai Gaurasundara from 5am-7:30pm, 7 days a week and invite you to their special program held every Sunday at 3pm with arati and kirtan, bhajans, discourse on the Bhagavad-gita, As It Is, and a pure vegetarian feast - all free! Festivals are celebrated year round. Temple is located at 1283 Prabhupada Rd. Sandy Ridge, NC 27046 For Further Details: 336.593.2322 / tothn@iskconpv.org www.iskconpv.org

nithyananda sangha north Carolina (Inner awakening) Inner Awakening works to spread the knowledge of Yoga and meditation by letting people experience the teachings of Vedic Science in its purest form delivered by the enlightened master Paramahamsa Sri Nithyananda. Nithyananda Sangha North Carolina is part of a worldwide movement for meditation and healing. Paramahamsa Nithyananda is a global leader in the science of enlightenment and the author of more than 300 books published in 27 languages. For Further Details: 704.766.1420 / 704.992.6114 innerawakening.org nithyananda.org nuv yug Nuv Yug is a cultural organization with a mission to promote awareness of Indian cultural arts and heritage. Striving to create synergy among various groups from the South Asian region. For Further Details: www.saathee.com/nuv-yug

Prabhupada village Prabhupada Village is a rural, ISKCON, devotional community, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Inspiration and guidance is from the books, letters, lectures, and example of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, the Founder-Acharya of ISKCON, The International Society for Krishna Consciousness. Following Srila Prabhupada’s personal example, we strive to teach spiritual values in order to achieve true happiness, prosperity and spiritual fulﬁllment. Ddicated to serving the North Carolina and Southern Virginia Hindu communities, visiting homes for fellowship, worship, scriptural study, and kirtan. We also facilitate spiritual festivals, Bhagavadgita and Srimad Bhagavatam discussions, teach puja, vegetarian cooking, and are experienced family counselors. For Further Details: 336.593.8108 or 336.593.3031 sarvadrik@gmail.com www.facebook.com/outreachseva www.prabhupadavillage.com

sri somesvara temple (asheville) The temple is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Western NC. It is a Vedic Shiva temple at the center of Mount Soma, a community commonly referred to as “Mount Kailash of the West.” People travel to experience Sri Somesvara’s powerful Linga, profound silence, and timeless vibrations. The temple is open every day from 9:30am to 6:30pm. Aarti is at 6pm. For Further Details: 828.476.4073 www.srisomesvara.org 106

December 2017

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS South Carolina

american south asian Cultural association of Columbia, sC The association’s goal is to increase cultural awareness and develop cultural understanding among American South Asian Community in Columbia. A lunch is held on the 2nd Sun every month between 12:30 - 2:30pm at Persis Biryani & Indian Grill, 1728 Bush River Road, Columbia, SC. Cost is $11 per person. For Further Details: Contact in the evenings: 803.233.7042 / 512.547.7077

Carolina Buddhist vihara (greenville, sC) Carolina Buddhist Vihara is a temple and monastery in South Carolina, USA. It is dedicated to oﬀering teachings of the Buddha, primarily by bringing Theravada Buddhist nuns and monks to Greenville. “Theravada” refers to the oldest surviving branch of Buddhism, the highly traditional school found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Burma, Cambodia, and Thailand. The meditation is on Monday, & Thursday from 6- 8pm & for women only on Friday 9- 10am. Full moon Poya program from 9am - 3pm on the closest Sunday to the Full moon. Temple is located at 113 Woodridge Circle, Greenville, SC. For Further Details: 864.329.9961 / greenvillebv@gmail.com www.carolinabuddhist.net

Hindu society of greater spartanburg The Society holds Satsang from 5-7pm on the second Sunday of each month. There are usually around ten families present. The Society also celebrates many religious and social festivals based on the Hindu calendar. Recent celebrations have included Navariti, Diwali, Janmashtami, Ganesh Chaturthi, Geeta Jayanti, and many others. The temple is quite active in sponsoring children’s programs, such as Rangoli classes and classical and contemporary dance classes. Temple is located on 1130 Fairview Church Road in Spartanburg, SC 29303. For Further Details: 864.599.7048 pluralism.org/proﬁle/hindu-society-of-greater-spartanburg/

Hindu temple and Center (Columbia, sC) The temple is open on weekdays between 8:30am to 12 noon and between 5pm and 8:30pm. On weekends, 8:30am to 1pm and 5pm to 8:30pm. Bal Gokulam (Sunday School) classes are held every Sunday from 10:30am to 12 noon. Classes are designed to help children build physical, mental, cultural, social & spiritual lives. It is located at 5704 Kiawah Road, Columbia, SC 29212. For Further Details: 803.772.6940 / www.hindutemplesc.org

India assoc. of greater Charleston (IagC) Organized for people who are interested in the culture and heritage of India and share the profound beauty of this culture with others. They celebrate various events throughout the year including Diwali and various Picnic gatherings. For Further Details: Omi Hasija (Chairperson) - 843.766.4661 iagcchs@gmail.com www.indiaassociationofgreatercharleston.com Saathee.com

Kannada association of greater greenville (Kagg) An organization devoted to the awareness and promotion of Kannada culture in the Greater Greenville area of SC. KAGG is a primarily run by volunteers and invites Kannadigas living in and around Greenville area to participate in the organization. Kannada classes for children are also conducted. For Further Details: 864.430.4973 / kaggculturalcommittee@gmail.com www.kagg-sc.org

Masjid noor-ul-Huda (MnH) The Mosque is open for five daily prayers in congregation every day of the year. On the first and third Saturday of every month from 6pm - 8pm, an Islamic session is held by Hafiz Mohammed Basheer. Quran reading classes for children are also conducted daily. The Mosque is located at 517 Winmet Drive, Columbia, SC. For Further Details: Masjid main number - 803.754.2632 www.noorulhuda.org

spartanburg Buddhist Center of sC The Center’s resident monks seek to preserve Theravada Buddhist traditions and welcomes all who are interested in Buddhism, Southeast Asian culture, or meditation. Since the center opened in 2010, a regular English-speaking group meets at 6pm on Thursdays for meditation, a brief Dhamma talk, and short discussions. The Center is located at 770 Bryant Road, Spartanburg, SC 29303. For Further Details: 864.327.8726 www.facebook.com/spartanburgbuddhist2012

telugu association of greater greenville Telugu Association of Greater Greenville (TAGG) is a non-proﬁt organization devoted to the awareness and promotion of Telugu Culture in the Greater Greenville Area. The association caters to the cultural and social needs of the Telugu people living in and around Greater Greenville Area. TAGG organizes events to celebrate major festivals and organizes a picnic during the summer as scheduled activities. In addition, TAGG screens choice Telugu Movies mostly throughout the year and organizes special cultural events from time to time. For Further Details: www.taggsc.org

vedic Center of greenville Daily Aarti is conducted Monday - Friday at 8pm. Bal Vihar classes are conducted Sundays from 11:15am - 12:30pm. Sri Venkateshwara Suprabhatam is held on 2nd Saturday of each month at 9am. The Center is located at 520 Bethel Road, Mauldin, SC 29662. For Further Details: President: Geera Desai - 864.451.4305 864.967.2852 www.vediccenterofgreenville.org

Send your organization's updates and events to us by the 15th of the month for inclusion: info@Saathee.com

108

December 2017

North Charlotte Location Opening Soon! 8109 University City Blvd, Ste A • Charlotte, 28213

• Finest Indian & Pakistani Groceries • Fresh Vegetables • Frozen Foods & Ice Cream • Fresh Sweets & Snacks • Stainless Steel Utensils • Clean & Organized

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 10 AM - 8:30 PM

704.540.2013 www.patelbros.com Accepting EBT Cards

10701 CENTRUM PARKWAY, PINEVILLE, NC 28134 ACROSS FROM CAROLINA PLACE MALL (Next to Wells Fargo Bank, Across From Best Buy)

“Celebrating Our Food... Our Culture”

China Climate Change continued from page 18

But halfway around the globe, climate experts will be watching how Chinese delegates act at this year’s climate summit in Bonn, Germany. “Given China’s more active stance in global climate efforts, I’ll be watching to see if the delegation plays a more active role to try to bridge differing viewpoints and push forward the negotiations,” said the NRDC’s Alvin Lin. Representatives from nearly 200 countries are meeting in Bonn this week and next to work toward developing a “rule book” governing how the Paris accord will work. “This is the test of Chinese leadership,” said Light. China has long been reluctant to allow other countries to verify its carbon pollution data. Two years ago in Paris, it finally signed on to an agreement that outlines a single transparent verification system for all countries. Now, with the US backing out of the Paris agreement, Light says the question is whether China will stick to that commitment. “If China is really going to step into the leadership vacuum created by the United States,” Light said, “then they must also accept that other countries must be allowed to see what they’re doing with respect to their emissions. Because that is absolutely essential to get Paris to succeed.” Despite President Trump’s announced withdrawal from the Paris agreement in June, the US is still in for now, as it takes years for countries to officially remove themselves from the accord. The US and China are co-chairing the working group on emissions verification at the Bonn summit. And it’s toward that working group — not the ceremonial meeting of Presidents Xi and Trump — where many climate experts are looking for signs of how China is living up to its self-professed role as climate leader.

Hemant Prakash, MD

Concord Children’s Clinic

Julia Blevins Richards, MD

Colleen Hibbert, PNP

Kellie Douglas, PNP

Nicole Cottone, FNP

In addition to regular pediatric care, we offer specialized appointments for high risk neonates (premature infants), sensitive teenage gynecological examinations, overseas adoption and travel examinations & vaccines.

Accepting new patients!

(704) 784-1010

1040 Vinehaven Drive • Concord, NC www.ConcordChildrensClinic.com

Complete Dental Care

in a caring and comfortable setting

Dr. Lina V. Mistry, DDS

Since graduating from New York University Dental School in 1999, Dr. Mistry has been providing comprehensive general family and cosmetic dental care to greater Charlotte and the Carolinas. Saathee.com

Consultations provided in English, Gujarati or Hindi. FAMILY AND COSMETIC DENTAL SERVICES

10410 Park Rd. ste 500, Charlotte, nC, 28210

704.543.4200 | 704.543.4205 www.pinevilledentistry.com

110

December 2017

AAAVtÑàâÜ|Çz à{x `ÉÅxÇà

Photos & Videos for all Occasions at reasonable rates by professional photographers

MAADHURYA PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY

• Engagement, Wedding & Reception • Cultural Events & Parties • Head Shot Photos

We Provide Live Streaming Video Service Member of professional photographers of America (PPA) Wedding & Portrait photographers International (WPPI) and Wedding photographic society (WPS) in good standing Nikon Professional Service

• Arangetrams & Ballerina • Portraits and Graduation • Baby Showers • Maternity & Baby photo shoot

Call Ravinder: 919-523-4254

Email: maadhuryaphotography@gmail.com

www.MaadhuryaPhotography.com

Facebook.com/MaadhuryaPhotography

Quality Through Perfection 12 + Years Of Accounting & Tax Experience.

Muhammad Kamran Awan

336-763-4428

Accounting & Tax Services:

Cell: 336-314-8075

4-C Oak Branch Drive Greensboro, NC 27407

• Financial Statement Preparation • Payroll & Sales Tax • Tax Preparation & Planning • New Business Set Up And Incorporation • Audit Representation, Back Taxes Owed, Tax Problems, IRS Issues

kamran@accountingsolutionsnc.com

www.accountingsolutionsnc.com

Serving North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia and Virginia Saathee.com

111

December 2017

SPOT THE DIFFERENCES

See if you can spot the 10 diﬀerences between the original photo on top and modiﬁed one on bottom. Answers are on pg 118.

Saathee.com

112

December 2017

1340 Matthews township Parkway Matthews, nC 28105

Visit us at www.matthewsfamilydentistry.com

We Also Oﬀer Comprehensive Dental Care for the Entire Family!

DO YOU SNORE?

LOOKING FOR AN ALTERNATIVE TO CPAP?

dental sleep Medicine

• Snoring/Sleep Apnea is associated with greater risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular diseases. • Our doctors are highly trained members of the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine (AADSM). • Oral Appliance Therapy can be an eﬀective solution for snoring/sleep apnea and an alternative to CPAP Therapy. • Contact our oﬃce for a Free Sleep Consultation and start getting the quality sleep you need and deserve.

Call us today! 704-708-9185

Tejesh B. Patel, D.D.S.

Vivek Kashyap, D.D.S.

Family dental Care

• State of the art technology in a relaxed, friendly environment. • Expertise in many aspects of dentistry, including Single-visit crowns, Invisalign and Dental Implants • Most insurance plans accepted. • Interest-free ﬁnancing available.

Call us today! 704-708-9185

Serving Buyers and Sellers Since 1989 Our experienced and talented agents can speak English, Hindi & Gujarati Offering Motels, Restaurants, Dry Cleaners, Laundromats, Convenience Stores, Land and more

Let Us Help You Buy or Sell A Business

County South Realty & Business Brokers 303 Indian Trail Road South Indian Trail, NC 28079

704-821-8888 www.countysouth.biz

Business Brokers

CONVENIENCE-STORES:

C-Store: Winston Salem, NC $225K + Inv, Annual Sales $1.5M, Gas 328K gals C-Store: Gastonia, NC $229K Property Included, Store Closed C-Store: Bennett, NC $240K + Inv., Prop Inc, No Gas, Annual Sales $262K C-Store: Louisburg, NC $120K + Inv, Annual Sales $915K, Gas 240K gals C-Store: Johnsonville, SC $469K + Inv, Property Incl. Annual Sales $2.5M C-Store: Kernersville, NC $99K + Inv, Annual Sales $700K, Gas 60K gals C-Store: Landrum, SC $85K + Inv. Inside Sales $529K, Possible Owner Finan. C-Store: Nash Cty, NC $95K + Inv, Annual Sales $750K, Gas Gallons 108K

FOOD:

Indian Restaurant: Cary, NC $80K, Annual Sales $180K Frozen Yogurt: Mooresville, NC $250K

OTHER SERVICES

Liquor Store: Rock Hill, SC $70K, Annual Sales $280K Furniture Resale Shop: Hickory, NC $60K, Annual Sales $245K Coin Laundry: Charlotte, NC $525K Highly Profitable Saathee.com

More listings available at our website: www.CountySouth.biz 113

December 2017

POP’S PUZZLES & JOKES By Kirit Shukla

Note: * denotes abbreviation of the word or phrase Clues across:

1. The basic monetary unit of Zambia. 6. The Muslim religion. 10. The home of Saathee magazine; The largest city in NC. 12. Of or near the breastbone. 14. Broadcasts on radio or TV. 16. A soft, silvery white, alkaline chemical element. (Sym. Na) 17. Long-range. (*) 18. Iowa. (*) 19. Hazard; dangerous chance. 20. A happening or coming unexpectedly. 23. ‘Brooks —’, (1894-1984), U.S. Journalist & drama critic. 25. Standpipe. (*) 27. In direct conflict esp. between two people. (Spanish) 29. A light ax used as a tool and as a hand weapon especially, by North American Indians. 31. Executive Order. (*) 32. A member of N American Indian living in SW Oregon. 33. The Biblical book of Psalms. 36. Jewish woman who saved her people by killing Holofernes. 38. Chicago O’Hare International Airport. (*) 39. An artificial waterway used for navigation or irrigation. 40. Hidden; mysterious. 43. Formerly known as Independent Weekly, a newspaper published in Durham RTP area of North Carolina. 44. A snakelike fish with slender elongated sleeper body and no fins. (May produce an electric shock?) Saathee.com

Clues down:

1. A caress or touch with the lips. 2. Spiritual sloth or apathy. (Greek) 3. A holiday, on December, 25th. 4. A Jewish holiday of lights, feast of dedication, observed for 8 days. ( Dec. 13 - 21, 2017) 5. The Biblical name for ancient Syria. 6. One of the third largest satellite of Jupiter. 7. The prominent leading actors of ﬁlms, collectively . 8. Lost Time Incident. (*) 9. The nest of eagle or other birds of prey, in a high place. 11. Limited Liability. (*) 13. A high rocky hill. 15. A trapezoid shaped musical instrument made of walnut with 72 metal strings stretched across & tied on pins. 17. The capital of Zambia. 20. A footwear for walking over the snow. 21. Deoxyribonucleic acid. (*) 22. Cadet Summer Training Center. (*) 24. Not suitable; inappropriate. 26. A prayer ritual performed by Hindus. (Hindi word) 28. A slender steel road with a small hole, used for sewing. 30. A group of things collected in a mass or heap. 34. Line Of Credit. (*) 35. Accurate or exact; In accordance with fact or reality. 37. Low Level Waste. (*) 39. Cast Iron. (*) 41. Check. (*) 42. Team Leader. (*) (Puzzle solutions are on page 118. NO peeking!)

Hee Hee

Father: “My dear daughter, I have given permission to that boy who likes you and has asked to marry to you.” Daughter: “But papa, I love my mother and I do not want to leave her. I do not want to go anywhere without my mom.” Father: “Calm down beta. I do not want to go against your wishes. You can take your mom with you after marriage.” •••••••••••••• Teacher: “Booddhoo, what is the outside of a tree called?” Booddhoo: “I don’t know.” Teacher: “Bark, Booddhoo, bark.” Booddhoo: “Bow, vow, vow, vow.” •••••••••••••• The prospective father-in-law asked, “Young man, can you support a family?” The surprised groom-to-be replied, “Well, no. I was just planning to support your daughter. You will have to support the rest of your family.” •••••••••••••• Two cars collided on the road. When the police oﬃcer arrived, he asked the lady driver involved, “Whose fault was this, madam?” She replied, “I don’t know. I wasn’t looking.” 114

December 2017

Word Find (Created By Kirit Shukla)

Find & circle the words in the puzzle. (Subject: “Indian Railways”)

Math Magic Use these numbers only once: ( 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9) in empty squares, to get = the final given answers. Note: Follow the order of operation per basic math rule: ×,÷, +, The multiplication or division is done before addition and subtraction.

AC BROADGUAGE BUSY CABIN CHAIRCAR COACH DOWN ENGINE EXPRESS FREIGHT INTERCITY IR LOCOMOTIVE LUXURY

METERGUAGE METRO PASSENGERS PNR RAJDHANI RESERVE SHATABDI SUBURBAN SUPERFAST TIER TRACK TRAIN UP ZONE

The unused 5 letters spell is ”Indian Railways Catering and Tourism Corporation. (*)”

(solution on page 118)

eZ-BZ

TEST YOUR IQ The common letters are “EF” - Fill in the blanks)

1. To receive advantage; profit. _ _ _ EF _ _ 2. An imperfection; flaw; shortcoming. _ EF _ _ _ 3. A mass of ice broken from the glacier. _ _ EF _ _ _ 4. Electronic Frontier Foundation. (*) EF _ 5. The largest tuna; a food fish. _ _ _ EF _ _ 6. To turn for information, aid or authority. _ EF _ _ 7. A quantity of something blown into the eye. _ _ EF _ _ 8. To pour out or forth. EF _ _ _ _ 9. Of short duration or extent. _ _ _ EF 10. The art of guarding against attack or harm. _ EF _ _ _ _ 11. An attempt to get something done. EF _ _ _ 12. Elegant. _ _ _ _ EF _ _ 13. A person of highest title or authority. _ _ _ EF 14. Sir; Mr. : A Turkish title of respect. EF _ _ _ _ _ 15. A musical notation placed on the left-hand side of a staff to show the pitch of the notes following it. _ _ EF 16. Anything brought about by a cause; result. EF _ _ _ _ 17. A tendency to annoy with playful tricks. _ _ _ _ _ _ EF 18. A winged beetle that glows at night. _ _ _ EF _ _ 19. To resist or oppose boldly or openly. _ EF _ 20. Feeling or showing extreme anger. _ _ EF _ _ 21. Causing disaster; harmful. _ _ _ EF _ _ 22. A structure manufactured in standard sizes ready to be shipped and assembled elsewhere. _ _ EF _ _ 23. That side of a body that is not right. _ EF _ 24. Cautious or wary against errors. _ _ _ EF _ _ 25. Any unsaturated aliphatic hydrocarbon. _ _ EF _ _ (Puzzle solutions are on page 118. NO peeking!) Kirit Shukla Contact him at kiritsshukla@hotmail.com

Saathee.com

115

December 2017

Marketing Turnaround continued from page 44

parks or attractions. If you are the most recent proprietor in a long-running family business, share old photos and reminiscences. Give shout-outs to customers who get recognized for being active in local community-building, charity, business and education programs. If your company provides a scholarship, make an event out of naming a recipient and post photos. Find ways to celebrate your locality on social media and make your online pages a go-to place for your customers and neighbors to ﬁnd out what’s going on, see their friends in action and be seen interacting in the community. Your Facebook, Twitter, and other sites can become the online equivalent of the neighborhood’s favorite front porch, where everyone gathers because that’s the place to ﬁnd your friends.

go global Even if your clientele spans the globe, you can use many of the engagement strategies outlined in the Stay Local section, just tweaked for your broader market. Instead of focusing intensely on one location, emphasize the world-wide nature of your work with travel photos, pictures posted by your customers from various countries, or quizzes and contests with a globe-trotting focus. Use case studies and stories to illustrate how your services or products make your customers’ lives better in all the global marketplaces you serve. Demonstrate your adaptability to differing cultures while emphasizing the common successes and outcomes achieved regardless of location. Play up your community and volunteer involvement regardless of where in the world your staff is located. While Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube serve a global audience, it’s worthwhile to look at which other social media platforms are popular in the countries where you have clients. Recognize that other countries may have different social norms about informality or sharing personal information in a business setting, so adjust accordingly. Use Facebook and LinkedIn groups to build an online community of your raving fans. Give customers the sense of your personal presence with video, even if you’re thousands of miles away. If there’s a language difference, consider having subtitles in the native language if you’re recording in English, or providing a translated text.

the Power of Community Whether your business is local or global, creating a sense of community among your clients, prospects and fans can be the glue that increases engagement and customer loyalty. Online communities often center around Facebook or LinkedIn groups, which have replaced more cumbersome group-management software programs. One of your ﬁrst question will be whether to make the group public or private. If your ﬁrst priority is to gather new members of your tribe and bring them closer into your orbit, then a public group is the place to start. You can invite people to join the group as your ‘ask’ in your videos and social media messages. The group is also a natural follow-up for people who have attend one of your events or webinars and want to discuss what they’ve learned. You can reward members with additional free content to draw them further down your sales funnel, providing ebooks, short videos, checklists, articles and worksheets. Plan to be present some of the time, but also build in was to encourage your members to keep the conversation going and support one another. Saathee.com

If you are looking to strengthen the bond among your inner circle of fans or dedicated customers, or if you plan to use the group as a way to share paid content, then the group should be private. Many people create multiple Facebook groups, one of each of their signature courses/seminars/events so that attendees can bask in the afterglow, engage with each other and with the presenter, and receive additional VIP content for which they have paid an extra fee. If you need more features than just an online place to meet, you may want to step up to software that will let you create a members-only forum with additional features like calendars, and polls. Some options include MyBB which is free and opensource, and BBPress, which was developed by the Wordpress people and integrates easily with Wordpress blogs. Another system that has been around for a while and offers a wide array of features is Ning. Ning was one of the original do-it-yourself online community building sites, and it has a lot to offer, but not everyone will find it intuitive to use. Meetup focuses primarily on live events. But it does have scheduling and announcement, email, or comment capabilities, and could be used in connection with an online venue for a public community that is looking to boost membership. Or you could add an online group component to augment a Meetup group’s live events for more engagement and conversation. Whether you are local or global, the goal of engaging customers and prospects on social media is to create a sense of community to build loyalty and help clients get the most successful outcomes from your products/services. Easy to use, affordable tools make it simple to build live or online gathering places to extend your brand and influence depends on your goals. How much those gathering spots become actual communities depends on your intent, and in your personal investment of your presence and content.

the Last Word Die-hard fans and loyal consumers want to belong to communities of like-minded people. When you become the hub for a community that extends your concepts while engaging your followers, you extend your credibility and inﬂuence. Excerpted from The Essential Social Media Marketing Handbook: A New Roadmap for Maximizing Your Brand, Inﬂuence, and Credibility

Nutrition

continued from page 68

tips for Cancer survivors: For cancer survivors, eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, and maintaining a healthy body weight are very important. Eating well can help with regaining strength, rebuilding tissue, and feeling better overall. Research also suggests that proper nutrition, physical activity and weight control may improve survival and may reduce the risk of cancer recurring. Additionally, physical activity and diet quality have been associated with higher quality of life, improved function, and lower risk of other illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis or diabetes. Along with proper recommended treatment, survivors should follow the same prevention guidelines to avoid recurrence.

Resources: The Physician’s Committee for Responsible Medicine The American Institute for Cancer Research The National Center for Reducing Asian American Cancer Health Disparities

116

December 2017

OVER 40 YEARS OF COMBINED LEGAL EXPERIENCE

YOU HAVE RIGHTS, EVEN IF YOU DON’T HAVE PAPERS • Accidents in the Workplace • DUI • Car Accidents

• Traffic Violations

• Criminal Defense

• Immigration

FREE CONSULTATION

Mitchell K. Byrd Jr.

thecarolinalawgroup.com

*Principal Offices of the Carolina Law Group

spot the diﬀerences solutions from page 112

1. Items on ground removed 6. Man jacket color changed

FESTIVALS & HOLIDAYS

2. Dress color changed

7. Bird added

4. Sign removed

9. Man added

3. Container color changed 8. Words removed 10. Shirt color changed

5. Sign changed

december 2017 Dec. 1 - Mawlid un-Nabi / Eid-E-Milad Dec. 3 - Dattātreya Jayanti (Full Moon) Dec. 7 - Eid-E-Maulud Dec. 7 - Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day Dec. 8 - Bodhi Day Dec. 12 - Pārshvanāth Jayanti Dec. 13 - Safalā Ekādashi Dec. 13 - Hanukkah begins Dec. 17 - Darsha Amās (No Moon) Dec. 19 - Yule Dec. 21 - Hanukkah ends / Winter Solstice Dec. 24 - Christmas Eve Dec. 25 - Christmas Day Dec. 26 - Kwanzaa begins Dec. 31 –New Year’s Eve (Year 2017 ends)

8 4 6

7 1

January 2018 Jan. 1 - New Year 2018 starts Jan. 2 - Poshi Purnima (Full Moon) Jan. 5 - Guru Govindsinh Jayanti Jan. 8 - Rāmanadāchārya Jayanti Jan. 11 - Vivekananda Jayanti Jan. 11 - Shattilā Ekādashi Jan. 13 - Lohri Jan. 14 - Makarsankrānti/ Uttarāyan/Pongal Jan. 15 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day Jan. 16 - Darsha Amās (No Moon) Jan. 21 - Ganesh Jayanti Jan. 22 - Vasant Panchami Jan. 23 - Netāji Subhāshchandra Bose Jayanti Jan. 26 - Republic Day (India) Jan. 28 - Jayā Ekādashi Jan. 30 - Mahatma Gandhi Nirvana Day Jan. 31 - Guru Ravidās Jayanti

Puzzle Solutions from page 114

Math Magic from page 115

Saathee.com

118

December 2017

FOR COURTEOUS, RELIABLE AND PERSONAL SERVICE

For Luxurious, Memorable Vacations And Business Trip Ticketing

The Carolinas’ Link To Wholesale Airline Tickets Serving the Carolinas for 26 years

Your most Trusted & Reliable Travel Source in the Carolinas.

Your Cruise & Worldwide Tour Center!

Tour Packages to India, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia including New Zealand & Fiji, Hawaii, Bahamas, Mexico, Jamaica and many more places. Mon - Fri: 10am - 6 pm ● Sat: 11am - 2 pm. ● Sun: By Appointment

919. 380.9191

Fax: 919.460.9292 E-mail: travelinks@gmail.com

Consolidator for all MAJOR AIRLINES to India, Europe, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Middle East, Africa, Asia, the Far East, Australia, New Zealand, Fiji & any World Wide destination.

For Emergency & After Hour Service 919.868.9000 Cell

Near RTP, Durham, Cary & Morrisville. 1073 Upchurch Farm Ln, Cary, NC 27519

Passport, Visa and other consular services.

Saathee.com

119

(Exit 278 off I-40 for Hwy 55)

December 2017

General Predictions for DECEMBER 2017

ASTROSCOPE aRIes (Mar 20 - apr 20) -

Money will ﬂow into your account this month, but it may not last very long. You may try to make easy money and end up ruining your reputation in the process. You may also spend some money for social and religious events. This is a good time to invest in real estate property. A happy love life is clearly indicated. An old health problem may continue to bother you. Don’t plan any longdistance journeys this month. tauRus (apr 20 - May 21) -

This month will be very busy and successful for you. Luck may favor you in almost all ﬁelds of life, except for your health and relations with your spouse. The time is very positive for students and youngsters. Be very careful while driving to avoid any accidents. A misunderstanding with your spouse may cause serious problems. An unexpected rise in income will delight you. geMInI (May 21 - Jun 21) -

After a good start, things may turn negative for you during second half of the month. A major dispute with your spouse could become the main reason for stress and health issues. You will perform well at your place of work and prove to be very rewarding. The time is also favorable for developing or buying real estate property. A lack of conﬁdence may constantly bother you. Count on help from your child this month. CanCeR (Jun 21 - Jul 22) -

If you can control your expenses, you will enjoy good luck and success this month. Your income will deﬁnitely go up. You may need to work extended hours, but the return should be more than anticipated. You may feel very spiritual this month. A great life-changing opportunity could come your way, so be sure to accept it. You will be able to defeat your enemies. Be careful while driving. Leo (Jul 22 - aug 23) -

An unexpected ﬁnancial gain, either through speculation or business deal, may delight you this month. You could be tempted to cheat at your place of work. Don’t compromise with your morals. You may end up in family dispute which could disrupt your peace of mind. Avoid making any major investments this month. You should enjoy very good health. Your friends may lead you towards wrongdoing, so remain alert. vIRgo (aug 23 - sep 23) -

A lack of conﬁdence hidden behind egotistical words may harm you this month. Avoid parties and public gatherings. Keep working hard and maintain your morals. Your spouse will prove to be great support for you. You could enjoy good health, but get your blood tested. Great family support and a slow rise in savings may make you feel comfortable. Travel may end in disaster, so avoid it. LIBRa (sep 23 - oct 23) -

Love and happiness will be all around you. Enjoy full

Saathee.com

120

conﬁdence and work on your dream project. Life should move very smoothly. Minor health problems and a family dispute could be there. Just ignore them. Travel may be troublesome, but very rewarding. However, a long-distance journey must be avoided. You may end up paying for your spouse’s mistake. Focus on your talent and enjoy success. sCoRPIo (oct 23 - nov 22) -

Listen to your spouse this month to enjoy real success and a happy married life. Your schedule will be very busy, and income will rise because of it. Don’t forget to share with others. You may also enjoy supremacy among those around you. Try to take every possible opportunity and work on maintaining that dominance. Also, don’t hesitate to spend on luxury items. Don’t forget to get enough rest while keeping an eye on your health. sagIttaRIus (nov 22 - dec 21) -

This month will be very busy and hectic for you. In return you will gain enough income to survive. You may use up most of your of energy on useless pursuits. Try to slow down and focus on your job. Don’t get involved in too many projects. Remember to curb your expenses and avoid making any major investments. If you keep up your morals and focus on your work, you won’t have any problems. CaPRICoRn (dec 21 - Jan 20) -

The time should move very fast for you. Travelling and working on developing your hobby can bring good returns for you. A recommendation by your superior may help you in gaining a raise, but unexpected expenses and losses may wash away most of that extra income. You may face a health issue during second half of the month. Focus on business-related travel to enjoy the best results. aQuaRIus (Jan 20 - Feb 19) -

Work on a family project as a team and enjoy great returns. A happy family life is clearly indicated. Your income and status will both rise. The time is also good for taking risks. Avoid the stock market during middle of the month. Enjoy good health. The time is perfect to start a new venture. Avoid traveling and spending time with your friends by staying away from parties and focusing on work. PIsCes (Feb 19 - Mar 20) -

The time is very positive for a long-distance journey, and the travel should be not only very enjoyable but also earn you some extra income. Enjoy a higher status in society by arranging social or religious gatherings. Don’t expect much from your spouse this month. Political support and family background may place you well above others. Your conﬁdence will be on par and will help you in handling a very busy schedule.

• By Jalendu Vaidya • Contact: 973-223-5047 www.jmvaidya.com

December 2017

Anil Bedi & Associates, PC CPAs and Business Consultants

STREAMLINE FILING, FBAR & FATCA SPECIALISTS We Specialize in: Individual & Business taxes • Accounting & Payroll • FBAR &

FATCA Filing • New company incorporations • Internal audit & SOX Compliance

• Tax filing for all - including H-1 & L-1 Visa holders W-7's and Tax ID's for IT consultants • Business set-up and support in India • Filing available for All 50 States

(for new clients, mention this ad. Exp: 1.5.18)

• Free E-Filing • Financial Projections • SBA Loans • Tax Planning

fREE, no obligation consultation! C-Corp., S-Corp. & LLCs

25% OFF

Serving Gas-Stations, Motels, Medical offices, Restaurants and all other businesses.

678.779.3475 Anajli Bedi: 678-836-7739 anjali@abacconsulting.com

www.abacconsulting.com

28 Years of Experience. Serving the entire Southeast, including North Carolina & South Carolina

North Carolina

New York

Charlotte Morrisville

Jackson Heights, Hicksville, Flushing

New Jersey

Georgia

Jersey City, Iselin, Cherryhill

Atlanta

Open 7 Days a Week! Rajbhog Cafe of Morrisville

Rajbhog of Charlotte, NC

3607 Davis Drive, Suite 111 Morrisville, NC 27560 Tel: 919.585.5333 Fax: 866.509.1536 morrisville@rajbhog.com

Pinnacle Point 9539 Pinnacle Drive #100 Charlotte, NC 28262 (3 Miles from Ikea) Tel: 704.909.7783 Fax: 704.248.7705 charlotte@rajbhog.com

GIFT IDEAS ALSO AVAILABLE ON THE WEB: WWW.RAJBHOG.COM

Saathee.com

121

December 2017

CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES:

Retail space for Lease in Raleigh near NC State University on Western Blvd. 1500 sq ft. Great lease options. Call Ping at 919-481-0319. Indian Restaurant for sale in Raleigh near downtown. Currently in operation at a great location. Low price! Call 919-604-9583. Motel for sale. 59 unit Independent motel in Winston-Salem, NC. Excellent location right off highway exit. Call 336253-3500 or 336-767-2900.

Convenience store for Lease in Greenville, SC. Very good potential & highly profitable. Call 704-299-8535. Hair salon for sale in RDU area. Major Franchise priced to sell at $35K. Business needs attention to turn it around as current owner is absentee. Please ontact salonsell17@gmail.com. subway for sale in Fort Walton beach, FL. Sales $7000/week. Rent $2800. Price $160k. Contact yatinpay@yahoo.com or 850-218-8579 subways for sale: Prime locations in Cary NC. Profitable, low rent & low operating costs. Some financing possible with collateral. Call or text 919-345-8255. Indian Restaurant for sale in NC. Good business and located on the main road. 100 + capacity. 910-685-6009 For sale or Lease: Gas Station w/ C-Store & Restaurant in Pollocksville, NC. ATM, pool table, jukebox & video games also included (extra income). Three bedroom mobile home accommodations. Call Milan Patel 252-521-5656. C-stores with gas: Multiple locations in NC & SC with an average investment of $160k. Call Brian 864-300-4889.

Retail / Convenience stores: C-Store: Watauga Cty, NC $539K + Inv, Annual Sales $2+, Prop Incl.; C-Store: Monroe, NC $1.79M + Inv, Annual Sales $2.4M+, Prop Incl.; C-Store: Denver, NC $200K + Inv, Annual Sales $3.5M; Call 704-821-8888 or visit www.Countysouth.biz.

Businesses for sale: Electronics Repair shop (TV, Audio, etc), 20 years in business and good income; Beauty supply store with & other listings. Call Rose Mun 704-649-0021. subway for sale: 2 locations in Goldsboro, NC Low rent / operating costs. Call 848-219-9427.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES:

sales associate wanted for a Retail Store in Concord Mills Mall. Must be fluent in English and possess pleasant personality. Base Salary plus Commission. Flexible working hours with great earning potential. Full time or part time. Call or text 704-5370664 & ask for Zara. Email resume to shehzad1975@hotmail.com Saathee.com

Hotel Help Wanted: Laundry Couple & Housekeeping Couple needed for Hotels in SW Virginia. Hotel experience & legal status required. Contact Sanjay at 276-7339511 or sanjay32@email.com. Hotel Help Needed: Manager (Single/Couple) and Front desk (Single/Couple) for Franchise Motel in NC on I-95. Accommodations provided. Legal status, Experience & fluent English required. Call or txt Shiv 407-341-7172 or email hpatel.jnp@gmail.com

Full-time Hindi speaking nanny needed in Ballantyne area Mon-Fri from 8am-5pm to take care of 14 month-old baby boy. Must have own transportation. Please call at 408802-2469. Front desk help needed for Motel in Rocky Mount, NC. Experience & fluent English a must. Accommodations provided. Call 443538-3997.

Full-time opening for sales admin position at manufacturing facility in High Point, NC. Please send resume to kajalb@amerifabintl.com. Housekeeping & Front desk Help needed for Interior Hotel in Rocky Mount, NC. Legal status required. Accommodation provided. Call 321-794-0950 or 252-977-9595.

Housekeeping Couple needed immediately for Independent Motel in Florence, SC. Must be honest and have legal status. Accommodations provided. Call 843-992-8424. Live-out nanny needed in south Charlotte (near to Tyvola Center Apartments) to take care of 6 month-old baby and some light cooking as well. Please contact 470-269-0368 or email Shakun.Bansal18@gmail.com. tulsi Indian Cuisine in Richmond, VA Now hiring servers, bus boys/girls, and cook helper. Please send inquiries to tulsiinrichmond@gmail.com.

Live-in Caretaker needed for elderly mother of age 85 in Charlotte area. Some housekeeping is also required. Starts in January 2018 for minimum of 6 months. Please call 704-907-6001. Math tutor needed for high school student. Must come to our place in South Charlotte (Sharon Rd West). 1 to 2 hours daily. Call for 704-724-2005. Help Wanted: Seeking Housekeeping and Front Desk for Independent Motel in Memphis, TN. Legal status required. Accommodations provided. Contact G. Cheena 803-530-8779. Housekeeping needed for 55 room Hotel in SC. Legal status & work experience required. Accommodations possible. Call 843-222-0158 between 9am-3pm or email jaypaditar1962@yahoo.com. 122

gas station help wanted: Full-time or parttime. University City area. Experience preferred. Call 704-904-5613. Hotel Help needed: Front desk (Single/Couple) and Housekeeping (Couple) needed for Independent Hotel near Baltimore, MD. Accommodations provided. Legal status, Experience & English required. Contact 301-338-4035 C-store/gas station help wanted ASAP. Full-Time. Location 45 mins from Raleigh, 30 mins from Greensboro. Good Pay! Call 336-509-4054 Part time nanny needed (4-7pm, M-F) to care for 5 year-old & 3 year-old in South Charlotte. Also some housekeeping and vegetarian cooking. Must have own transportation. Starts in January 2018. Call or text Kiran 732-589-2807. Housekeeping & Front desk Help needed for Hotel in Mooresville, NC (Exit 36 I-77). Walking distance from local grocery store. Legal status required. Contact champ52@hotmail.com. Live-In Indian nanny needed for newborn, cooking and light cleaning. Contact Khyati Shah at 551-689-2491 or vikram0802@gmail.com Convenience store/gas station Help Wanted: Couples, full-time in Augusta, GA & McCormick, SC. Must speak fluent English. Good pay! Call 704-299-8535. experienced Housekeeping Help needed (single or couple) for a franchise motel in Ladson (Charleston), SC. Excellent pay. Accommodations provided. Contact Priya at 843-425-2840. need nanny for 6 month-old boy in South Charlotte from 7am-7pm, 4 days/week. Must drive/have own car. No Students/temporary workers. Call 848-219-8450. nanny needed (live-in or live-out) for baby boy in Waxhaw, NC. Vegetarian family. Contact 704-497-2845. Live-in Caretaker & companion needed for 85 year-old handicapped woman. Full-time. Gujarati speaker. Assistance with everyday needs and some light housework. Accommodations, food, and warm family environment provided. Monthly salary. Call 314-452-4444. Housekeeping couple needed for Hotel in Cleveland / Akron, Ohio. Accommodations provided. No English necessary. email: ram@omdevelopmentcorp.com or call 919673-7623. Can you cook, take pictures and type? Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect opportunity for you! Prepare recipes. Excellent cooking, picture taking & typing skills must. Call 704-609-5066. nanny needed immediately in Greensboro, NC. Preferably Indian. Contact cell at 336-339-5827. December 2017

agents wanted to promote Magnolia Nandi Hills plots near Bangalore International Airport. Commission freelance work including sharing w/friends & colleagues and following up on provided leads. Send email to villexo.realty@gmail.com or whatsapp to 91-9008569627.

Hotel Management Firm now Hiring: Housekeepers, front desk (must speak fluent English), and General Manager of franchise hotels. Experience required. Email resumes to abcone@abcinns.com or call 704-649-6833 (M-F, 9AM-5PM).

Front desk Manager needed (single or couple) for 50 room Franchise Motel in Covington, VA. Honest, dedicated & reliable. Hotel experience, fluent English and legal status a must. Email moli@royaltouch.us. gas station Help Wanted: Full-time Single or couple in Columbia, SC. Experience Preferred. Must speak English. Call 803466-5861 or 803-319-9878. Motel Help Wanted: Couple needed for Housekeeping/Front Desk at independent motel in Goldsboro, NC. No experience needed. Legal status & fluent English a must. Accommodations provided. Call 919396-1752. Retail sales associate needed for Clothing & Sports Store in Columbia, SC. Must have legal status and speak fluent English. Opportunity to advance quickly to management. Contact 706-877-0315. nanny needed to take care of toddler + cooking near Concord Mills in Charlotte. Live-in or Live-out. Call or text 814-431-3442. Motel Help Wanted: Housekeeping, Managers & Night Auditors for Independent & Franchise Motels in South Carolina. Good pay and accommodations provided. Call 803-347-6320.

Looking for motel manager for 44 room motel in Rockingham, NC. Call 336-686-0788. experienced threading Practitioners or Licensed esthetician in Charlotte & Raleigh. New locations now open. Full or part-time. Great pay & flexibility. Experience required. Good English skills. Call 980-322-1110 (M-F 9-5) south Carolina Hotel Management Firm now Hiring. Looking for Housekeepers, and General Manager for front desk (fluent English required) for franchise hotel. Experience required. Email resumes to cpandoria@gmail.com & ratravijay@gmail.com. call Vijay 704-465-8089 or Chandrakant 704-737-0363. Hotel Help Wanted in Charlotte. Competitive salary & accommodations provided. Front desk - all shifts (experience a plus) & housekeeper. Must be fluent in English. Call 704-464-4427 or e-mail 123nash@gmail.com Saathee.com

Front desk Clerk needed for franchise motel in Charlotte. Full-time or part-time. Experience & fluent English required. Must be honest & reliable. Call Nina 704-299-3364. nanny needed for 6 month-old baby near Highland Creek, NC. Contact 484-425-7544. nanny needed in Charlotte area. PartTime Gujarati babysitting help in evenings (approximately 3-7 pm or 4-8 pm). Cooking and light housework, must have your own transportation. Please call 317-679-5408.

Looking for Couple to manage Subway Restaurant in Kinston, NC. Legal status, fluent English and computer skills required. Call Milan Patel 252-521-5656.

MATRIMONIAL

Hindu girl (Patel, 36, B.Com) looking for a good life partner. Currently living in India. Sister well settled in U.S.A. Contact with your bio-data: charmi_ami96@yahoo.in

PROPERTY FOR SALE

Walk to sri somesvara! Rent 2 Rooms. Mount Soma (Clyde, NC). With/without kitchenette, washer/dryer. Private baths. $750 / $650. Year Lease. Includes utilities. Call 443-614-4644.

used Hotel Locks and RFId keys. Onity, Kaba-Ilco, Saflok and Vingcard. Also selling RFID keys for all major hotel brands. Contact Neal 410-349-1967 skhospitality@yahoo.com or Neal@JSKcards.com are you looking for beautiful plots in Bangalore near Nandhi Hills? Send a whatsapp request to 91-9008569627, email to villexo.realty@gmail.com, or visit www.villexo.com for Brochures, Photos and Videos.

Mount soma Cottage for sale next to Sri Somesvara Temple in Clyde, NC (near Asheville). Stapatyaved. 6 rooms, 3 baths, & parking. Email maura.shea@yahoo.com or call 410-674-3960.

SERVICES

Priest available for the following services: Shree Satya narayan katha, Shanti hawan, Vastu shanty, Weddings, Baby shower, Bhumi pujan, Mata ki chowki pujan, Funeral, all types of karmakand. Please call Viral Bhatt 704-438-6334.

gujarati Priest: Devendra Dave Independent priest. Ganesh, Randal, Navratri, Diwaliâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Laxmi & Sharda Pujas, Satyanarayan Katha, Weddings, Vastu, Baby Shower, Funeral Seva. Call Daveji 704780-3563. God Blessings to All.

Bridal draping: specializing in draping sarees, dupattas and jewelry for any event. Weddings, Engagements, Baby Showers etc. Contact Rital Patel bridaldrapingbyrital@gmail.com or Facebook.com/bridaldrapingbyrital 123

garland design studio By: gP. Flower shop for all occasions. E-mail call Ghanshyam.patel53@gmail.com, 704-548-2852 / 704-779-0277 or visit: Facebook.com/GarlandDesignStudioByGp

gujarati Priest in nC & sC for Ganesh, Randal, Laxmi, Sharda Pujan, Satyanarayan Katha, Wedding, Vastu, Baby Shower, Hawan, Grah Shanti. Kishor Trivedi Home: 336-774-0597 Cell: 336-486-7925 E-Mail: kishor7@juno.com

gujarati Families: I am interested in learning everything Gujarati, culture, food, language, etc. If willing to help, please call Nik 803-579-1405.

dholi For Hire: Plays the Dhol (drum) for any occasion! Barat, Doli, Graduation, Birthdays, Baby Showers & any other festivity. Affordable rates! Call Arpan Bhandari 704-641-4761 or email: arpandholi@yahoo.com neetaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beauty Parlor: Charlotte area open 7 days a week. Full service. Call for appointment. 704-968-0270.

shimmy the arabian way with Bellydance Classes by Jessica Hannan Sultan. Sign up now for 2018 session in Chapel Hill Tuesdays 11am. www.JessicaHannanSultan.com.

Cst - Carolina software testing Hub: QA Training in Charlotte from experience professionals in the Industry. 100% Job oriented. Guaranteed small classes with quality training and personal attention. Proven success rate of individuals getting placed. Offering Hands on Technology, Live Projects, Training on Testing tools. Resume and Interview Guidance with Job Placement assistance. Call 704-451-0955 or 704-806-8907.

Pari Beauty In Matthews: Threading, Waxing, Facials, Massage for newborn and mom & other services. 27 years of experience. Special Deals & Great Service. Call: 704-846-7912.

Saathee Classifieds Business ads are $25 Personal ads are $15

Upgrade to color for an additional $10 or add a box for $15 Saathee.com ads posted daily We accept all major credit cards. Ads up to 25 words. Deadline for print is the 20th. Web ads daily.

How do I Submit a Classified? 1. online: saathee.com (classified section) 2. email: info@saathee.com 3. fax: 704.527.7590 4. For more info call 704.527.7570 Saathee Magazine PO Box 11468 Charlotte, NC 28220 December 2017

Advertisers Index Accela Residential Range Hood................................63

Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation of USA.............................25

PNC Bank (Commercial Financing - Reena Ruwala).33

Accounting Solutions (Muhammad Kamran Awan).111

EnRootz LLC by Mukta Ghangas ..............................37

Pramukh Mandapam ...............................................41

Akruti Collections......................................................55

Fashion and Jewelery...............................................93

Puja Boutique (Charlotte)..........................................59

Ali & Sons Car Care ................................................93

Gandhi International Market......................................48

Raghu Mothukuri Allstate Agent................................77

Anand, Versha (Real Estate) .....................................30

Global Mall / Legacy Jewels ..................................127

Rajbhog Foods .......................................................121

Anil Bedi & Associates PC (CPA & Consultants)......121

Godavari (Truly South Indian - Charlotte)...................73

Rajdeep Video & Photography (Ramesh Panjabi)......37

Aroma Indian Cuisine (Charlotte)...............................71

H2 Laser & Skin .......................................................51

Raj's Photography ....................................................75

Around The World Market (Charlotte)......................105

Hindu Center of Charlotte (Events) ......................64-67

Ram Realty (Ram Kalagara)......................................69

Asiana Fusion.Sushi .................................................49

Hull & Chandler, P.A. (Ketan Soni - Legal)..................31

Regal Oaks Dental ...................................................95

Aspect Commerical Realty (Prashant Parmar) ..........77

Illume MD (Laser Hair Removal)................................39

Ritu Selects - India Inspired Couture.........................24

Aureus University School Of Medicine (Aruba) ..........45

India Grocers (Charlotte) ...........................................34

Robert Brown LLC (Oza, Rishi: Immigration Law)......91

Austin Village Eye Care (Dr. Keshav Bhat)..................83

International Community Church .............................12

Rocket ATM..............................................................17

Bala Sure (Broker / Realtor, NC & SC)......................21

K & M Accounting ....................................................33

Rose Mun Realty (Businesses For Sale)....................45

BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir (Charlotte)............61

Kabab-Je .................................................................33

Royal Events LLC (DJ Service & More) ...................119

Barot, Tushar (State Farm) ........................................27

Kaur, Karamjit (New York Life Insurance)...................47

S S Event Services (Event planning, Photo, Video).....27

Bashyam, Spiro & Coats, LLP (Immigration Law)....101

KB Zaveree.................................................................4

Saffron Restaurant and Catering...............................85

Battineni, Sekhar (Real Estate)..................................55

KD Financial & KMD Realty.......................................29

Shah & Trivedi CPA, PLLC.........................................37

Bhindi Jewelers ......................................................2

Khanna & Sons Jewelers .........................................11

Shah, Anish (Real Estate) ...................................78-79

Bipin Parekh Realty, LLC...........................................89

Krut Systems (LED, Signs, Solar)...............................20

Shah, Kirti (CPA - Sepa Consulting) .........................57

Blooming Buds.........................................................91

Kumon Math and Reading Center (Fort Mill, SC).......53

Shining Stars Academy ............................................99

Bombay Grille (Charlotte)..........................................38

LED Lights (Smart Energy Solutions).......................126

Shukla, Kirit (Music Lession & Band).........................83

Brijal Shah (Keller Williams - Real Estate)..................59

Maadhurya Photography........................................111

Shyama Beauty Parlour............................................43

British International School of Charlotte.....................42

Maharani Indian Cuisine (Charlotte) ............................8

Singh Tutoring ..........................................................47

Calvary Church.........................................................16

Malak Jewelers........................................................23

Sithara (South Indian Restaurant - Charlotte)............75

Carolina Law Group (Monty Desai) .........................117

Malani Jewelers.....................................................128

SJ Iyer Realty............................................................75

Carolina Wedding Belle (Event Design & DĂŠcor)......125

Malaya Kitchen.........................................................46

Sonal Furniture (Atlanta) ...........................................15

Carolinas Christian Assembly......................................8

Masters Trainers International (Yassin Chickha).........57

South Asian Bridal Show (Charlotte, Ayesha Mian)......5

CaroMont Medical Group (Dr. Manu Patel)................69

Mathur, Gitanjali (Allen Tate Realtors) ........................39

South Charlotte Endocrinology (K. Narasimhan, MD) 83

Charlotte Chess Club ..............................................21

Matthews Family Dentistry ....................................113

SouthEast Family Care (H. Italia, MD & V. Jarsania, MD)35

Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat ............................103

Meenakshi Creations LLC.........................................81

Southern Oncology Specialists (Dr. Swetha Gujja).....52

Charlotte Music School.............................................35

Meetika Kapur (Realtor / Broker)...............................47

Sri Somesvara Temple (Mt. Soma, North Carolina)....27

Chaupatti (Casual Indina Kitchen - Charlotte)............24

Monroe Dental Care (Dr. Vinita Patel) ........................85

The Blue Taj..............................................................97

....................................................91

Mount Soma Cottage for Sale (Maura Shea) ............45

Travel Passion ..........................................................45

Concha, David (Immigration Attorney).......................51

Nationwide Ins. (Maqsood Khan) ..............................12

Travel Universe.......................................................107

Concord Children's Clinic ....................................110

Neeta's Beauty Parlor...............................................83

Travelinks...............................................................119

Chiro-Carolina

Copper Restaurant (Charlotte)...................................97

New Year Party at Goels Plaza ....................................3

Trinity Episcopal School (Charlotte)............................49

County South Realty & Business Brokers ...............113

New York Life Insurance (Rasheed Ulhaq).................19

Ttravel Guru..............................................................57

Cruise Planners (Raghu Mothukuri) ..........................41

North American Bancard ..........................................9

Tyagi, Rita (Real Estate).............................................52

Curry n' Cakes (Charlotte) ......................................125

OM Tech Training .....................................................55

Uni World Travel........................................................81

Dentist (Dr. Prashant Rao-Cedar Walk Dentistry).......69

Origin International Market (Gandhi Int Market).........48

Villexo Realty (Villa Plots: Bengaluru, Karnataka) .......81

Dentist (Pineville Dentistry - Lina V. Mistry, DDS).....110

Passage To India - Fine Indian Cuisine......................87

Vyas Travels..............................................................62

Desai & Desai LLP (CPA & Financial Services)..........41

Patel Brothers (Charlotte)........................................109

Woodlands Vegetarian Cuisine (Charlotte).................58

Desai, Rajarshi (CPA, PLLC)......................................43

Patel, Champa (Real Estate)......................................69

Worldwide Travels ....................................................17

Devam Jewelers.........................................................7

Patel, Mrugesh (Law Offices)....................................63

Yafa Halal Market & CafĂŠ..........................................31

Devendra Dave (Bholabhai) (Astrologer / Palmist) .....72

Patel, Tony (Real Estate)............................................51

Yupp TV....................................................................13

DJ Desi (Amit Vasi) ...................................................77

Pathak, Atul (Real Estate)..........................................57

Zafran Kabab Palace (Charlotte / Pineville)................19

DJ Lalit (Lalit Hemnani).............................................63

Payal Groceries ........................................................43

Saathee.com

124

December 2017

CaRoLIna WeddIng BeLLe PREMIER EVENT DESIGN & DéCOR

Specializing in South Asian Weddings!

Chair Rental

MANDAPS & STAGING. AISLE DESIGN. FLOWERS. SPECIALTY LINENS & DRAPING. DOLIS. LIGHTING & MORE!

Rahma Zaghari 704.941.9467 Humam Bianouni 704.807.4638 info@CarolinaWeddingBelle.com

Serving ALL of the Southeast! (704) 807-4638 | CarolinaChiavaris@gmail.com

www.CarolinaWeddingBelle.com We Travel Nationwide!

uA ing Yo Wish olidays! yH Happ

CATERING FOR ALL OCCASIONS

Open seven days a week!

704.688.5972 Saathee.com

CALL FOR WEDDING CAKE DETAILS

● North and South Indian dishes, Tandoori Kababs, Dosa, Indo-Chinese and Biryani (Serving Halal Meat)

● Variety of veg and chicken soups ● Veg and Non-veg lunch special

● Eggless and Sugar-free cakes and Variety of Desserts

● Wedding Cakes, Custom Cakes for Birthdays & Special Occasions

curryncake@gmail.com

www.curryncake.com

2015 E. Arbors Drive, Suite 270, Charlotte, NC 28262 125

December 2017

SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS SAVE

60% to 75% on energy

www.smartlednc.com

Serving ALL States Across the USA! 150W LED STREET LIGHTS $70 AFTER DUKE ENERGY REBATE TRADE ALLY D E IZ R O H T U A ER GY FOR DUKE EN

15 W LED WA

$13

4’ LED TUB E 2600+ LMS

LLPACK

5 FT LED CO

$ 7 .9 9

OL E

$10 AFTER RERBALT IGHTS E

TE AFTER REBA

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF DUKE ENERGY SMART SAVER INCENTIVE PROGRAM

Duke Energy Rebates Available!

527 N. Polk St., Pineville, NC • 704-835-1054 • Serving all States Mr. Amit Patel: 980.254.4200 • Mr. Rupal Patel: 704.287.3426

Open: M-F 9am to 6pm, Sat 10 to 5 (1/2 Mile from Patel Brothers & same shopping center as India Grocers) Rebates Available with Duke Energy and other small utility companies in small towns. Call for details