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Fresh flood alert in southern India as monsoon death toll hits 244

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EW DELHI, India | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - India issued a fresh flood alert Wednesday for parts of the southern state of Kerala, as the nationwide death toll from the annual monsoon deluge rose to at least 244.

Authorities warned Kerala locals of heavy rainfall over the next 24-48 hours in some of the worst affected regions of the state popular with tourists.

Heavy rain in parts of four Indian states -- Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra and Gujarat -- has forced more than 1.2 million people to leave their homes, mostly for government-run relief camps.

Kerala was hit by its worst floods in almost a century last year, when 450 people died, and the state is still recovering from the damage to public infrastructure including highways, railways and roads.

The state's death toll this monsoon season increased to 95 overnight, with at least 59 people missing, Kerala police told AFP on Wednesday.

At least 58 people have also lost their lives in neighbouring Karnataka state, where authorities have rescued around 677,000 people from flooded regions.

The situation is now improving in Karnataka, as waters start to recede, an official told AFP. Continued on Page 8

Indian-Americans support scrapping of J&K's special status

Kerala has been hit by deadly floods in August 2019 (AFP Photo/STR)

Immanuel Marthoma Church, Houston donates 100 backpacks to Stafford Elementary

Hundreds of Indian-Americans assembled outside the Indian Consulate in Houston on Saturday in support of India's decision to revoke Jammu and Kashmir's special status and bifurcating the state into two Union Territories.

H

OUSTON | August 10, 2019 | PTI | - Indian Americans, under the aegis of the Houston chapter of Friends of India Society International (FISI) and the Houston chapter of Global Kashmiri Pandit Diaspora (GKPD), raised slogans like "hail Indian democracy", "hail Indian secularism".

ist, leading the Houston FISI Chapter, said revoking provisions of article 370 and declaring Jammu and Kashmir as a Union Territory with its legislature and Ladakh as a separate UT will provide equal opportunities to all the residents without any discrimination on the basis of cast, creed, ethnicity and religion.

They were carrying banners like "Article 370, draconian, discriminatory", "Pakistan stop manufacturing terrorists" and "Pakistan let us live in peace".

"The only agenda left is to regain the occupied part of Kashmir which is under illegal occupation of Pakistan," he said.

The gathering also thwarted a protest march by Islamic Society of Greater Houston to show solidarity with Pakistan.

The FISI hailed the "visionary leadership" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the "landmark decision".

Madhukar Adi, an activ-

Achalesh Amar, national treasurer of FISI, said Kashmiri Hindus for the last 30 years have been living as refugees in their own country India.

"Current decision by the PM should not be seen through the prism of religion. The common residents of the state will have access to better education, healthcare, profound development, employment," he said.

Left-Right: Koshy Thomas, Publisher, Voice of Asia,, Xavier Herrera, School Board VP, Princilla Herrera, Admin.

Asst. and Twyla Hynes, Principal (both in red) , Ken Mathew, Council Member, City of Stafford, Rev. Abraham Varghese, Vicar Immanuel Marthoma Church, Reno Samuel and volunteers. Photo by Shobana Muratee

Read report on Page 4

India to ease Kashmir curfew 'after Thursday'

by Simon Sturdee with Parvaiz Bukhari in Srinagar

N

EW DELHI | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - India's crippling 10-day-old curfew in Kashmir will ease after Thursday, according to the state governor, but phone lines and the internet will remain cut.

India shut off communications and severely restricted movement in the part of Kashmir it controls on August 4, a day before New Delhi stripped the Muslim-majority region of its autonomy.

Fearing protests and unrest in the long-restive region, tens of thousands of extra Indian troops have been deployed, turning the picturesque main city of Srinagar into a warren

of barbed wire and barricades.

While rules on the movement of people would be eased after India's Independence Day celebrations on Thursday, state governor Satya Pal Malik said that phone lines and the internet would remain down.

"We don't want to give that instrument to the enemy until things settle down," Malik told the Times of India. "In a week or 10 days, everything will be alright and we will gradually open lines of communication."

The lockdown has not completely prevented anger at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's move bursting out into the open, however.

According to residents around 8,000 people protested after Friday prayers, with se-

curity forces firing tear gas and pellet-firing shotguns to break up the rally.

Only on Tuesday did the Indian government confirm that clashes, blaming them on stonethrowing "miscreants" and saying its forces reacted with "restraint".

Footage filmed by AFP on Monday showed hundreds of people protesting in the Soura area of Srinagar, shouting slogans such as "We want freedom" and "India go back" as helicopters buzzed overhead.

"What India has done is unacceptable to us. Our struggle will continue even if India keeps Kashmir locked down for months," one protester told AFP. Continued on Page 8

State governor of the Indian-controlled part of Kashmir said communications will stay blocked as India's government relaxes its clampdown .AFP Photo

OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

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rime Minister Narenda Modi’s address to the nation on Thursday may not have reached its primary audience in Jammu and Kashmir which was in blackout. But he did well by speaking out on his decision to revoke its special status, and divide it into two Union Territories. Considering the secrecy and disinformation that preceded the decision that he rightly characterised as historic, and the triumphalism among his supporters that followed, the address was reassuring. The promises he made will be checked against delivery in the coming months, not only by the people of J&K but also by the rest of India and other countries. In his 37-minute address, Mr. Modi promised restoration of statehood to J&K once normalcy returned, a participatory election, and growth in employment, commerce and opportunities in general for them.

The PM urged industrialists to set up shop, and film-makers to shoot in the Valley, and asked people there to integrate with the global community.

He even offered a catalogue of products and services that could make the State attractive in the global market. While these are desirable objectives, the PM could start with what is exclusively within his powers to effect — to call for fresh

by Dov S. Zakheim

A

t the most recent meeting of the Aspen Strategy Group — which includes current and former senators, former senior officials, retired military, leading academics and analysts — a number of the participants expressed considerable doubt about whether the United States could defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack, or even whether it would attempt to do so. Behind the concerns voiced at Aspen, Colo., was the shadow of a potentially brutal Chinese paramilitary operation to crush the dissenters in Hong Kong. The fear was that once Beijing’s “one country, two systems” policy toward Hong Kong was terminated, Taiwan would be next.

Moreover, they argued, there is no way Washington could send two carriers into the Taiwan Strait, as it did during the 1996 crisis, causing Beijing to back down from its threat to subjugate the island. Having determined that it never again would be forced to submit to such a humiliating retreat, the Chinese Communist government has spent the past two decades modernizing and expanding its forces to respond to any potential threat of American attack.

Indeed, many analysts doubt whether American carriers could even operate within what has been termed “the first island chain” — Japan, northern Philippines and Taiwan — which is now within the range of Chinese land-based DF-21D and DF 26 anti-ship ballistic missiles. Moreover, given what they view as America’s dismal prospects for defending Taiwan, several participants also argued that aircraft carriers, in general, are so highly vulnerable that the time has come to begin phasing them out of the fleet. At a minimum, they argue the Navy should at least to halt any new construction of these $13 billion mastodons.

It is certainly true that the threat to aircraft carriers is far more serious today than it was in the second half of the 20th century. Moreover, there is little doubt that carrier tactics and operations in support of Taiwan will continue to be far more difficult than in the past. That does not mean, however, that carriers are obsolete, as their critics contend, or that the defense of Taiwan is nothing more than a pipe dream.

To begin with, it is not as if the Navy has just awakened to the existence of the two Chinese anti-ship missiles, or to China’s determined development of its maritime capabilities, including in the cyber realm. The hypersonic DF-21 was first tested over a decade ago; the DF-26 at least two years ago; and analysts, including Chinese analysts, have been describing their capabilities for nearly as long. The Navy has not been sitting still since then, and analysts have been describing some of its countermeasures in open literature for some time.

It is certain, however, that

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

State of the Union: On Jammu and Kashmir Early elections and full statehood are essential to the total integration of J&K with India

Screengrap of the video: PM Modi addresses the nation election and restore statehood at the earliest. While an elected government itself will be a sign of improvement in the situation, it will also make normalcy more organic. Revocation of statehood was unjustified in the first place, and its restoration must be immediate.

What actually triggered separatism and terrorism in J&K — whether the special status and autonomy it was granted by the Constitution, or the gradual erosion of these concepts over decades — is a difficult question, but the BJP

has always claimed to have known the answer. The PM reiterated that position, stating that Articles 370 and 35A gave only “separatism, nepotism and corruption to the people of J&K”. Additionally, he also said these were hurdles in the region’s development; and now that these are removed, an era of development and progress could be ushered in.

While the charges of corruption and nepotism are true to an extent, there is no reason to suggest that J&K has been any worse than other States in this respect. The implied re-

ductionism in the address that political aspirations may be a price worth paying for material progress may not be a democratic path to progress. No other formation in India is more vociferous than the BJP on questions of culture, heritage and faith. National integration is essential for peace, stability and progress, and uniform development across regions, but this is not synonymous with an enforced cultural homogeneity. J&K needs a representative government and full statehood urgently for normalcy and integration with the Indian Union.

If China crushes Hong Kong, is Taiwan next? the Navy’s most potent countermeasures have not been described in the public sphere.

Nor are they likely to be. Such countermeasures come in two forms. Some are operational and tactical, which incorporate leading-edge technologies that are widely known but are applied in innovative ways.

The second category are countermeasures that remain highly classified — so-called “black programs.” The very classification of these systems renders them less than optimal in wartime, however. This is the case either because they are not incorporated into war games, or because they are unlikely to be employed in battle by sailors unfamiliar with their capabilities.

The inability of war gamers to incorporate these systems in their games is of special con-

cern because, as was noted at the Aspen Strategy meeting, some war games involving Taiwan have resulted in American defeat. Were these “black programs” incorporated into the Navy’s games on a regular basis, the outcomes could well be different. While the details of the games would remain classified (as are most Navy war games), their outcomes could be publicized. Were that the case, Chinese military planners, who otherwise might be buoyed by reports of war games that resulted in American maritime “losses” in a war over Taiwan, would be forced to think again. So, too, would potential defeatists in Taiwan itself.

The United States has been committed to the security of Taiwan since the 1949 communist takeover of the mainland.

It has maintained that commit-

ment ever since, the 1979 China Relations Act’s recognition of the People’s Republicby Washington notwithstanding. At a time when American reliability is being questioned around the world, signaling uncertainty about America’s ability to defend Taiwan would further undermine Washington’s standing as a credible ally, especially in East Asia.

On the other hand, reaffirming that Washington’s longtime strategy of deterrence, based primarily on the power of American maritime and air forces, remains solidly intact would signal that Washington’s national security policy is more than just words on paper.

Dov S. Zakheim is a senior adviser at the Center for Strategic and International Studies and vice chairman of the board for the Foreign Policy Research Institute.

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Hrithik Ramganesh's performance:

Beyond Arangetram!

Chi Hrithik with Guru Dr. Sunanda Nair.

Chi Hrithik performing Bharathanatyam - Arangetram. Photos credit Murali Santhana.

H

OUSTON - “When I was invited by Mrs. Thilaga Ramganesh for the Bharathanatyam Arangetram of Chi. Hrithik I was very skeptical as bharathanatyam was a domain of girls. But the moment Chi Hrithik entered the stage for the first performance of Ananda Narthana Ganapathim, my myth that the bharathanatyam was the domain of girls was shattered.

He captivated me and the entire audience of over 400, with his delicate dance movements. His depiction of Lord Ganesha and the Lord’s movements brought us the image of Lord Ganesha himself. The next performance Nari Hariyai Vandhan, a poem penned by Ambujam Krishnan was superlative. The way he posed as Narasimha, the way he changed his expression from normal to that of Narasimha was unbelievable. I am sure, the audience nearer the stage would have taken a back seeing the lion on stage with its ferociously angry eyes. The expressions during Hiryana Vatham and transformation from anger to karunyam (peace) on hearing Shanthi

Sloga was like a magic.

Bharathanatyam is characterized by basic positions, the main of which is the ardhamandali, Basic steps are called adavus. Bharathanatyam involves many hand gestures, called mudra. The feet are very dynamic and move following jathis, in contrast to the detached and relaxed upper body.

Chi Hrithik excelled in all the elements of bhathanatyam dance performance- Angasuddha, Thalasuddha, Thandavam, graceful movements of the hands and legs, The best part of the performance was Varnam which lasted for over 40 minutes with lots of adavus, jathis and bhava. Chi Hrithik was mesmerizing all the audience during this wonderful but arduous performance. The entire audience was spell bound the way Chi Hrithik danced and running around the stage without showing the strain of the difficult mudras of Varnam. He did it with ease and love. The entire audience gave a standing ovation for this wonderful performance of Varnam.

I never felt it was his Arangetram

performance. My daughters later informed me that Chi Hrithik performs in all the functions-in Meenakshi Temple, community functions or Indian and Asian festivals. Chi Hrithik loved his dancing while performing in his Arangetram performance. The 10 years of dedicated studying under the tutelage and guidance of Dr. Sunanda Nair was noticeable and depicted every minute of the performance. All the time, he was gracefully looking at the audience with a broad smile on his face. He made his parents and Guru proud. Thanks, and kudos to Guru Dr. Sunanda Nair,” said R Chandrasekaram describing Chi Hrithik’s performance.

Another guest, Priya Balakrishnan, had this to say “It was wonderful watching Hrithik's performance this last weekend. The otherwise shy and a demure boy transformed to a confident young artist on the stage mesmerizing the whole crowd. Each song chosen showed different side of Hrithik's style. I loved all the dances, but my favorites were the Narasimha dance and the Ayyappa song dance. The concluding peace literally stole the complete show.

Hrithik's bhavam was so subtle and just about right I thought.

I am a novice in this field but was stuck to my seat from start to end. Hrithik knew the stage very well and used the whole stage space cruising around and struck a chord

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among us viewers. I agree I was biased to a guy doing Bharatanatyam except for couple of actors but Hrithik changed my view and made it look so cool. I was emotional and so proud at the end of the performance. Hearty congratulations and appreciations to the parents, Guru and Hrithik.”

Indira Bhavaraju contributed this “Hrithik used all of the stage so well like a professional. His expressions were very clear and so perfectly pertaining to the story, specially the anger and fighting parts of the repertoire.

Even the delicate parts of Parvati’s grace were depicted beautifully even though he is a male dancer. The dances were beautifully choreographed and Hrithik’s performance was very graceful and every jati showcased his agility and power “.

“Hrithik Ramganesh gave a Unique performance as a male beating the stereotypes classical Bharatanatyam dancers as females in Houston. He portrayed graceful poses with smooth movements and dynamics. From the beginning to the end, Hrithik kept the audience engaged with his dance especially the second song Nara Hariyai Vanthan with a lot of expression and emotions. His song on Lord Muraga (Kavadi Chindu) showed the variety in selection of the songs. Hrithik concentrated well on the Varnam and

ended well with Ayyapan song which showed the amount of depth and interest he persevered to the success of his Arangetram. At the end of Mangalam song, the audience gave a standing applause to this young man who stood strong and brave till the end.

Hrithik has set standards that this Bharatanatyam dance can also be well executed by male dancers in Texas.

Rajesh Gopinath Kumar contributed “The striking aspects of Hrihtik’s arangetram were his perfect posture, tremendous stamina, dynamic jumps, strong footwork, evocative facial expressions and a great stage presence, plus the presence of a highly accomplished and fabulous live orchestra.

Hrithik’s dedication and hard work are an inspiration to all and his commitment to arts is a foundation for his future success. “ The arangetram would not have reached its heights without the ample professional support by Guru Dr Sunanda Nair nattuvangam, Murali Parthasarathy for vocal, Vedakrishna Ram for Mridangam, Sunil Bhaskar on violin, and Kalakshetra Mukundan.

The parents Thilaga and Ramganesh’s support and encouragement was evident through the entire presentation.

The arangetram was held on August 10, 2019 at the Bayou Theater.

Musicians: Guru Dr. Sunanda Nair, nattuvangam, Murali Parthasarathy, vocal,Vedakrishna Ram,Mridangam, Sunil Bhaskar, violin, and Kalakshetra Mukundan. performing at Hrihtik’s Arangetram.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 4

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Immanuel Marthoma Church, Houston donates 100 backpacks to Stafford Elementary

By Shobana Muratee

S

TAFFORD –On Thursday August 8, Immanuel Marthoma Church donated a hundred backpacks to Stafford Elementary School on Staffordshire relieving the ‘Back to School’ stress for some needy students. The backpack also contained a stationary like crayons, pencil box and notebooks.

Speaking on the occasion, Abraham Varghese, Vicar Immanuel Marthoma Church said, “This is our silver jubilee year and we need to share our resources with the community and with the lesser privileged ones in the schools.

and the community comes together really well, said Princilla Herrera, Admin. Asst. for Multi-lingual Department.

Asked if the backpacks donated would be enough, she said “Any blessing like this is enough,” however, to cover the minimum basic needs another 600 would be need she added.

giving back and longstanding partnership with Stafford community church.”

Xavier Herrera, School Board VP said, “The school and the Stafford community is appreciative of initiative of

Immanuel Marthoma Church, located at 12803 Sugar Ridge Boulevard, Stafford, Texas 77477 is celebrating its Silver Jubilee this year.

Principal Twyla Hynes, also expressed her thanks to the church and the volunteers for choosing Stafford Elementary School for their service program.

Most of the students are homeless to help them come to the school and help them. We are trying to adopt the school as our service project.” This is the first time the Church has selected as part of its service project but the Vicar informed that they have other plans like toy drive for Christmas as well. He later offered prayers.

Volunteers, Stafford Elementary School staff and Immanuel Marthoma Church members at the backpack donation event on Thursday, August 8, 2019. Photo by Shobana Muratee.

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THE STORY OF MAHATMA GANDHI

Gandhi invites untouchable family in ashram Gandhi went to Rajkot and Porbandar to meet his relatives and then went on to Shantiniketan. There Gandhi met poet laureate Rabindranath Tagore for the first time, as well as C. F. Andrews.

Andrews, who came to India as an Anglican priest in 1904, was one of the very few people respected both within Indian nationalist circles and official British ones. A close friend of Gandhi, Tagore and other eminent Indians of the time, Andrews never ceased to champion the Indian cause for independence and, in a broader sense, the cause of all downtrodden peoples against oppression. Now read on. ..

During his short stay at Santiniketan Gandhi heard the sad news that Gokhale had passed away. He immediately left for Poona, C. F. Andrews accompanying him as far as Burdwan.

“Do you think,” Andrews asked Gandhi, “that a time will come for satyagraha in India? If so, how soon will it be?”

“It is difficult to say,” replied Gandhi. “For one year I am to do nothing. Gokhale made me promise that I would travel in India for one year to gain experience, and that I would express no opinion until I had finished this period of probation. So I do not think there will be any occasion for satyagraha for five years.”

After attending the shraddha ceremonies of Gokhale, Gandhi met the leaders of the Servants of India Society. Out of respect for Gokhale he would have joined the Society, but there was opposition from a certain sections of the members. Gandhi visited Rangoon, in Burma, for

a short period and on his return he went to Hardwar during the time of the Kumbha Mela. About 1.7 million people attended the mela. Volunteer corps from different organizations had gone to Hardwar to be of service to the big crowds that were flowing in.

Gandhi was invited to go there with the Phoenix party with the Phoenix party to help the volunteers. The Phoenix group went there and Gandhi joined them. Gandhi was pained at the many happenings and shortcomings at the great religious fair. There was corruption, there was cheating and many other unsocial activities. Scant care was taken about sanitary arrangements.

All this made Gandhi, feel very sad. He thought a great deal about the problem of how to improve the Indian character. In May 1915 an ashram was established in a village near Ahmedabad. The city was an ancient centre of handloom weaving and Gandhi thought the place was suited for the revival of the cottage industry of hand-spinning. Gandhi named the new institution Satyagraha Ashram.

“Our creed is devotion to truth, and our business is the search for and insistence on truth,” he said. A simple uniform style of clothing was worn by all who were there. They took their food together in a common kitchen and strove to live as one family. Gandhi told the members: “If you want to serve the people, it is essential to ob-

“And then Gandhi came.

He was like a powerful current of fresh air that made us stretch ourselves and take deep breaths, like a beam of light that pierced the darkness and removed the scales from our eyes, like a whirlwind that upset many things, but most of all the working of people’s minds.” — Jawaharlal Nehru

Mahatma Gandhi Week in Houston Call 713-785-3900 or visit www.mahatmagandhilibrary.org serve the vows of truth, ahimsa, celibacy, non-stealing, non-possession, and control of the palate.”

One day Gandhi said to members of the ashram, “I have received an application from an untouchable family who want to join us here. I am replying to them that they are welcome.”

This created quite a stir. An untouchable family in our midst!! Even Kasturbai had her misgivings. Gandhi’s mind was made up, however, and there could be no objection from anyone in the ashram. But the patrons of the ashram did not like the idea and they stopped funding the ashram.

The ashram was suddenly faced with an acute financial crisis, but help came unexpectedly. A rich man came to the ashram and gave Gandhi Rs. 13,000 and urged him to continue running the ashram.

In February 1916, Gandhi was in-

vited to speak at the laying of the foundation-stone of the Banaras Hindu University. The Viceroy and many of the most important people of India were there.

Gandhi, clad in a Kathiawadi long coat and a turban, rose to speak. The police arrangements, and also the pomp and luxury around him, hurt him deeply. Turning to the audience he said, “I want to think audibly and speak without reserve. His first words froze the audience. “It is a matter of deep humiliation and shame for us,” he said, “that I am compelled this evening under the shadow of this great college, in this sacred city, to address my countrymen in a language that is foreign to me.”

It was a bombshell. Nobody had ever dared to speak against the English language. The British officers, then friends, and the important Indians who had gathered there were seething in anger.

But Gandhi went on, “His Highness the Maharaja who presided yesterday over our deliberations spoke about the poverty of India. But what did we witness? A most gorgeous show, an exhibition of jewellery... There is no salvation for India unless you strip yourselves of this jewellery and hold it in trust for your countrymen in India.”

Gandhi gave a long speech, covering many topics. His speech was full of outspoken criticism.

Mrs. Annie Besant, who was one of the organizers of the function, was horrified and urged Gandhi to sit down. But Gandhi went on. Some people went red with rage, but others listened to Gandhi with great interest.

“Here at last is a man telling the truth,” they thought. “He is the man to raise India from the mire.” They applauded him and shouted joyfully.

Gandhi turned to them and said, “No amount of speeches will ever make us fit for self-government. It is only our conduct that will make us deserve it.

Gandhi told them that they should all be the kind of people able to take up the work of selfgovernment. Finally, Gandhi, the man who three times had supported the British in their war efforts, said, “If I found it necessary for the salvation of India that the English should retire, that they should be driven out, I would not hesitate to declare that they would have to go, and I hope I would be prepared to die in defence of that belief.”

The people were amazed at Gandhi’s frankness. It was Gandhi’s first great political speech in India.

Years later, Jawaharlal Nehru described what the coming of Gandhi meant to the Indian people. He said, “We seemed to be helpless in the grip of some allpowerful monster; our limbs were paralysed, our minds deadened. What could we do? How could we pull India out of this quagmire of poverty and defeatism which sucked her in...

“And then Gandhi came. He was like a powerful current of fresh air that made us stretch ourselves and take deep breaths, like a beam of light that pierced the darkness and removed the scales from our eyes, like a whirlwind that upset many things, but most of all the working of people’s minds.’ Several conferences demanding home rule were held in India during the latter half of 1916. They marked a new wave of political life under the leadership of Tilak, Mrs. Besant, and Jinnah.

- To be continued..

Sponsored by Houston Arts Alliance in honor of Mahatma Gandhi Sesquicentennial Houston celebrations.

Great Summer Project For children! Enter Mahatma Gandhi Week 2019 citywide contests: Essay, I-Tribute, Poster and Speech contests.

Visit gandhilibrary.org for registration and more information. By participating in these contests not only will the children make good use of their vacation time, they will also learn universal values of Truth, Nonviolence, Love and Service by participating in these contests.

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Disneyland Shanghai sued over 'double standards'

S

HANGHAI, China | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - A Chinese student is suing American giant Disney alleging double standards because the company bans visitors to its Asian theme parks from taking their own food.

rise between the world's two largest economies.

The lawsuit against Shanghai Disneyland takes the entertainment company to task because the same strictures do not apply in its US or European parks.

The David-and-Goliath legal challenge has lit up China's Twitter-like Weibo platform, with the Chineselanguage hashtag "Disney sued for prohibiting bringing own food and beverage" attracting more than 600 million views and tens of thousands of comments.

The legal action, which has sparked widespread support on social media, comes as China and the US spar over trade, and as tensions

The student, surnamed Wang, says she had her "rights violated" after being barred from bringing in her own meal, forcing her to buy "overpriced" food inside the park.

"Many people may also feel that their

rights have been violated, but (they) did not sue due to the time involved.

As law students, (it) is our duty," Wang told online media The Paper.

Disney told state broadcaster CCTV the regulations are "consistent with most of China's theme parks and Disney's other destinations in Asia."

Disney parks in the US and Paris allow guests to bring in outside food items. Those in Tokyo, Hong Kong and Shanghai do not.

"Disney's (rules) are an example of double standards (and) discrimination against Asia," one Weibo user wrote.

Indian Revenue Service officers undergo Mid-Career Training at Duke University

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Tel: 713-774-5140

India's Reliance to sell $15 bn stake in refining unit to Saudi Aramco

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UMBAI, India | AFP | Monday 8/12/2019 - The head of India's Reliance said Monday it has agreed to sell a 20-percent stake in its oil refinery and chemical unit to Saudi Aramco in a deal worth $15 billion.

"This is the biggest foreign investment in the history of Reliance and also amongst the largest foreign investments ever in India," India's richest man Mukesh Ambani said at the company's annual general meeting in Mumbai.

The preliminary deal is based on a valuation of $75 billion for Reliance's Oil to Chemicals (O2C) division comprising the refining, petrochemicals and fuels marketing businesses of the

The agreement also includes Saudi Aramco supplying 500,000 barrels of oil a day to Reliance's Jamnagar refinery, the world's largest, which to date has processed some 2 billion barrels of Saudi crude.

"This signifies perfect synergy between the world's largest oil producer and the world's largest integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex," Ambani told Reliance shareholders.

"Now we have transformed our longstanding relationship of two decades, based on mutual trust, into a partnership of growth potential for many more years," he said.

Mediator denies Bayer has offered to settle Roundup cases

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RANKFURT AM MAIN, Germany | AFP | Friday 8/9/2019 Kenneth Feinberg, the courtappointed mediator between chemical and pharma giant Bayer and thousands of plaintiffs claiming the herbicide glyphosate gave them cancer, on Friday denied reports the company had made an $8 billion settlement offer.

ordered individual payouts or a mass settlement in the glyphosate cases could cost upwards of 10 billion euros ($11.2 billion).

"Bayer has not suggested that it should pay $8 billion to settle all US Roundup cancer cases," Feinberg told German business newspaper Handelsblatt.

The shares fell back to 64.48 euros by just after 3:30 pm in Frankfurt (1330 GMT), but remained up 2.4 percent on the day and topped the bluechip DAX index.

Roundup is the flagship weedkilling product of Monsanto, the American seeds and pesticides maker that Bayer bought last year in a mammoth $63 billion deal.

In this August 9, 2019 Photo from Indian Embassy US Tweet, Ambassador HarshShringla addressed 30 officers of the Indian Revenue Service undergoing their Mid-Career Training at Duke University. Ambassador highlighted the enormous potential of the India-US economic partnership.

Indian firm, according to a Reliance statement.

Since the takeover, some 18,000 people have brought legal actions against the combined firm, saying their use of the Monsanto product caused various kinds of cancer.

Analysts have warned that court-

Bloomberg News had reported rumours of a settlement earlier Friday, sending Bayer's stock price soaring as investors saw hope the company could free itself of the legal millstone.

Feinberg is a veteran mediator who has worked on cases from the harm caused by defoliant Agent Orange -- also manufactured by Monsanto -during the Vietnam War to Volkswagen's emissions cheating scandal.

He told Handelsblatt that "compensation has not yet even been discussed in the global mediation talks", which are set to last until September at the order of a California judge.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 6

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

BANA Annual Academic Fest-2019

About 118 students ranging from grade 1 to 12 participated in multiple categories.

by Vishal Anand Ghosh

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OUSTON, August 10, 2019 - Bihar Association of North America (BANA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, hosted its showcase event, BANA Academic Fest-2019 on August 10th at Houston Community College, Stafford. The mission of BANA has been to preserve and promote social and cultural heritage of India by fostering academic and cultural excellence among children in USA. It has been a great achievement for BANA to successfully organize this event for 21 years.

The Academic Fest is an event where students ranging from grade 1 to 12 compete in multiple categories.

This year about 118 students participated in Primary(Grade 1-3), Elementary(Grade 4-5), Middle(Grade 6-8), and High (Grade 9-12) school sections in Math, Spelling Bee, Vocabulary, Science, Art/Coloring, SAT Practice Test, Speech and Debate categories.

participants of Scripps National Spelling Bee. Elementary/Middle school Science and Math tests were set by TMSCA. Grading was computerized to enable fast and accurate test grading and coordinated by Santosh Verma and Amit Kumar. ExxonMobil and GSI Environmental Inc. are the key sponsors of the Academic Fest.

BANA Academic Fest started at 8:00AM and concluded around 4:00PM. The lead organizers of this year’s event were Amaresh Mishra, Rakesh Sinha and Atul Sinha. They were

helped by several lead coordinators/volunteers who worked hard to make this event successful. Additionally, several nonBANA personnel graciously contributed their time to serve as judges/evaluators.

The event began with welcome by BANA President Atul Sinha and youth-representative Arya Ranjan and Akash Sinha.

They highlighted the mission and key achievements of BANA in past 25 years. Students/parents were also briefed about the exam schedule/rules. Subsequently, students were led to re-

"T  S. E    "

Academic Fest allows students to stay engaged in academic activities and keep motivated/ challenged during summer. It also provides a competitive platform to prepare for the upcoming school-year. In recent years BANA Academic Fest has become a community tradition recognized for promoting academic enrichment and professionalism among our next generation.

BANA Mock-SAT-Exam was sponsored by TestMasters.

Spelling Bee testing for Elementary/Primary groups was coordinated by Ganesh Dasari and included Krishnakumar Balasubramanian, Aruna Vanuluri, Sanjukta Payra and Satya Kota.

Rakshit and Pranav were the pronouncers. They are former

High (Grade 9-12) school sections in Math, Spelling Bee, SAT Practice Test and other categories. spective events/rooms by event coordinators.

Participants break for lunch around noon. The contest continued after the break with brisk speed. The event closed with the final round of the High School debate “The United States federal government should substantially reduce Direct Commercial Sales and/or Foreign Military Sales of arms from the United States”. The finalists Anurag Routray, Anhinav Sinha and Adarsh Agarwal presented their opinion and arguments with concrete facts and debated in a respectable/professional manner in a close contest.

Awards were given for top three (3) position in each category for each grade.

BANA President Atul Sinha thanked and congratulated all organizers, volunteers, judges and sponsors for their help/support for a successful Academic Fest-2019. He tendered his special congratulations to all the

BANA volunteers at the registration booth. winners and participants. The current India Culture Center President, Mrs. Nisha Mirani and Vice-President Mr. Pramod Bengani also congratulated and gave awards to the winners.

As the awards were distributed, a crowd crescendo welcomed the winners to accept their accolades which came in the way of a trophy, certificates

and a firm reassuring handshake from distinguished presenters Vijay Singh, Madhusudan Choudhary, Ram Mohan Malik, Chandeshwar Sharma, Santosh Jha, Ravi Kant Choudhary, and Bijay Kumar Singh.

For question/membership/ sponsorship, contact banahouston@gmail.com or visit http:// www.banahouston.org.

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DIASPORA

VOICE OF ASIA 7

40,000 register for “Howdy, Modi!” free event at Houston’s NRG Stadium Sunday, September 22 Public ticketing now open; crowd of 50,000 expected, with over 40,000 already registered to attend

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OUSTON, August 12, 2019-: Public registration is now open for the “Howdy, Modi” event featuring India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday, September 22. Everyone can register for free at www.howdymodi.org. A projected crowd of 50,000 is expected to attend and listen to his speech on a resurgent India and a strong US-India partnership at the NRG Stadium in Houston. The event “Howdy, Modi!”, hosted by the Texas India Forum, will include a vibrant cultural program that puts a spotlight on IndianAmerican contributions to the United States before the muchawaited address by the Prime Minister. The event will have simultaneous English translation available for everyone to listen to at the stadium via their smartphone. Doors for the event will open at 7:30 a.m. and the program will begin at 10:00 a.m. sharp. Organizers are planning to mobilize over 300 buses to transport attendees from locations around the greater Houston area. Parking and other logistical details are to be announced.

“I look forward to welcoming Prime Minister Modi to Houston, home to one of the biggest and most vibrant Indian communities in the U.S.,” said Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner. “I know how much his visit means to not only the Indian diaspora in our city, but throughout the region. This historic visit will strengthen the already robust bonds between Houston and India on trade, culture and tourism – all of which benefit every Houstonian.”

“On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Indian-Americans in Texas, and as co-chair of the Senate India Caucus, I welcome Prime Minister Modi to Houston,” said U.S. Senator John Cornyn. “India continues to be a key security and economic partner of the United States, and I look forward to seeing that relationship strengthen with his visit to Texas.”

So far, 40,000 attendees have signed up in the first two weeks alone, and there are more than 1000 volunteers and 650 Welcome Partner organizations.

Registration for those with Welcome Partner organization codes has been extended to August 18th as well, as more and more hear about the event.

A diverse group of organizations from a wide spectrum of the Indian diaspora here in the United States has mobilized to support the event.

"For those who have registered through a partner organization, there will be a "Bring A Friend" registration option, so they can invite up to four non-Indian friends or neighbors to attend the event,” said Jugal Malani, convener of the “Howdy, Modi!” organizing committee. “We want the entire city of Houston to come enjoy the festivities and learn about Indian / Texan relations."

The event, with the tagline ‘Shared Dreams, Bright Futures’, will shine light on the tremendous contribution of Indo-Americans in the United States and the strong and lasting partnership between the United States and India. The cultural program preceding the Prime Minister's address, showcasing Indian-American artists from Texas and elsewhere, will portray how the community is woven into the larger tapestry of American life. It will involve broadbased community participation across the United States.

The Prime Minister’s address is a reflection of the growing economic ties between India and Houston.

According to WISERTrade, the U.S. Census Bureau, and the Foreign Trade Division, in 2019 (year to date), India is Houston’s 4th largest trading partner just behind Brazil, China and Mexico. Also this year, Houston-India trade is up 82.2 percent, Houston exports to India are up 106.5 percent, and India exports to Houston up 48.8 percent. Additionally, the Houston-Galveston Customs District is the third busiest gateway for U.S.-India

trade (by value). From ’09 to ’18, trade between Houston and India averaged $4.8 billion annually and was valued at $7.2 billion in ’18. More than 92,900 people living in metro Houston were born in India. Thirty-three Houston firms operate 85 subsidiary locations in India, including KBR, National Oilwell Varco, NetIQ/Micro Focus, Oceaneering International and Walter P Moore. Twenty-eight Indian firms operate 28 subsidiaries in the Houston area, including HCL America, JSW Steel, Mahindra USA, Neilsoft and Welspun Global Trade. Trade and cultural relationships with India are facilitated in Houston through the Consulate General of India, and the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce.

“The future of Texas is inextricably tied to global trade and strategic relations. We welcome Prime Minister Modi to Houston, the most diverse city in the United States that exem-

plifies Unity in Diversity. As a Texas-wide leadership group focused on civil discourse on the important policy issues facing our state, we recognize that this visit will be a giant step in further strengthening Texas - India relations on numerous fronts,” said Sanjay Ramabhadran, President of the Texas Lyceum.

For more information, please visit www.howdymodi.org.

About The Texas India Forum The Texas India Forum, Inc. (TIF) is a not-for-profit organization that encourages cooperation between the United States and India, advancing the shared values of democracy, inclusive economic development, and mutual respect. TIF brings together Indian-American organizations and institutions to encourage collaboration within the region and expand opportunities for engagement with India.

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

US lawmaker apologises to IndianAmericans over letter on Kashmir Congressman Tom Suozzi, in a letter to Mike Pompeo, had said the action by the government in Kashmir "risks provoking mass social unrest..."

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ASHINGTON_ August 13, 2019 | Press Trust of India - In an unprecedented move, a US Congressman has apologised to Indian-Americans for not consulting them before writing a letter to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to express his concerns on human rights situation in Jammu and Kashmir after the Centre scrapped its special status.

Congressman Tom Suozzi, in a letter to Mike Pompeo, said the action by the government in Kashmir "risks provoking mass social unrest..."

"These new restrictions on the autonomy of the state and the rights of Kashmiris could also embolden extremists and terrorists to act," Tom Suozzi said in his letter.

Upset by the letter, several Indian-Americans, who constitute a significant part of Tom Suozzi's Congressional District in New York and had played a key role in his election and fund raising, shot him several angry messages.

About 100 Indian community

members have demanded that he withdraw his letter.

"On Sunday, I met with 100 of my Indian-American constituents regarding my recent letter to Secretary Pompeo expressing my concerns about recent developments in Kashmir."

"Based upon my meeting it is clear that it was a mistake to not consult with some of my Indian-American friends and supporters before I sent the letter. I should have. I am sorry. If I had met with them before sending the letter, I would have framed my concerns differently," Tom Suozzi said in a statement.

He said that throughout his career in public service, he has been an ardent supporter of India, their sovereignty, and have always stood with them in their fight against terrorism.

The US-India relationship will be one of the most important over the next 50 years and beyond, he said, adding that he has spent his time in Congress promoting and elevating this relationship and will continue to do so.

"India, the world's largest democracy, remains critical for regional security and peace. The current situation in Kashmir presents some very serious challenges. The US should seek to be helpful in securing safety and peace for all people," he said.

"Moving forward, I will make sure to solicit the input of all of my constituents who have a vested interest in Kashmir and work towards a peaceful region that roots out terrorism and corruption as well as respects human rights. It is my hope that recent developments in the region will eventually lead to this," he added.

Indian Americans have said Tom Suozzi's statement was a step in the right direction and sought a follow up letter from him to Mike Pompeo.

"It is a statement in the right direction. If any letter is requited, Congressman Suozzi needs to write to Secretary Pompeo about the nefarious actions of Pakistan and asking for decisive and irreversible action against terrorist organisations," Jagdish Sewhani, the President of the American India Public Affairs Committee said.

SOUTH ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 8

Pakistan vows to respond to any Indian aggression in Kashmir

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U Z A F FA R ABAD, Pakistan | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan vowed Wednesday the time had come to teach Delhi a lesson and promised to "fight until the end" against any Indian aggression in the disputed region of Kashmir.

The warning represented a dramatic escalation in rhetoric after Islamabad said last week that they had ruled out a "military option" over the Kashmir dispute.

The remarks come as tensions skyrocketed between the nuclear-armed rivals following India's surprising move to revoke the autonomy of its portion of the disputed Himalayan territory last week.

"The Pakistani army has solid information that they (India) are planning to do something in Pakistani Kashmir, and they are ready and will give a solid response," Khan said during a televised speech in Muzaffarabad, capital of Pakistan-administered Kashmir.

"We have decided that if India commits any type of violation we will fight until the end," Khan added in the speech marking the country's Independence Day. "The time has arrived to teach you a lesson."

The heated rhetoric follows days of rising hostilities from Islamabad.

Following Delhi's move to abolish Indian-administered Kashmir's special status, Pakistan launched a diplomatic offensive aimed at reversing the order and formally asked the United Nations Security Council late Tuesday to hold an emergency session to address India's "illegal actions".

Pakistan has also expelled the Indian ambassador, halted bilateral trade and suspended crossborder transport services.

However, analysts said the actions were unlikely to move Delhi.

- Lockdown -

Born in the USA, 'Boss' the bull fetches record price in Bangladesh

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Tens of millions of Bangladeshis travel back to their homes across the country to celebrate the annual three-day religious holiday, which is known as the festival of sacrifice.

Muslims slaughter an animal -- a goat, sheep, cow, or camel -- during the festivities in a ritual stemming from the story of the prophet Abraham, commanded by God to slaughter his beloved son Ismail.

A curfew has also been enforced across the region and phone and internet lines cut to quell potential unrest.

The meat is distributed in equal parts to the poor, relatives, and consumed by the family themselves. Millions of hides are donated to poor people and orphanages.

The head of the Pakistani military also added that the country's security forces were "fully ready to perform its part in line with our national duty for Kashmir cause”, according to a tweet from the army’s spokesperson.

Earlier this week Khan lambasted the international community for failing to challenge India and said turning a blind eye to the spread of Indian Hindu nationalism was the same as appeasing Hitler -- a comparison he again made on Wednesday.

Khan and the military’s comments followed other fiery speeches in the territory’s parliament, with the prime minister of Pakistani Kashmir at one point begging for permission to cross the de-facto border dividing the territory and then later bragging about opening fire on Indian troops in the past.

As tensions simmered with India, Pakistan moved ahead with independence celebrations which began at the stroke of midnight with firework shows lighting up the skies in major cities, where residents jammed the streets waving the national flag from their cars and motorcycles.

Fresh flood alert in southern India as monsoon death toll hits 244

HAKA, Bangladesh | AFP | Thursday 8/8/2019 - "Boss", a Brahman bull born in the USA but raised in Bangladesh, has been sold for a record price as the country prepares to sacrifice over 10 million animals to celebrate the Muslim festival of Eid al-Adha next week, officials said Thursday.

The Indian part of the picturesque Himalayan state has been under lockdown for over a week with tens of thousands of troop reinforcements deployed to the main city of Srinagar and other towns and villages.

Indian authorities vowed to reduce the restrictions on freedom of movement in their portion of Kashmir following the country's own Independence Day celebrations on Thursday.

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Raising animals for Eid alAdha is a major job creator, and there is fierce competition among farmers throughout the South Asian nation to rear the best-looking and heaviest cattle.

"Boss", imported from the United States and reared at a farm on the outskirts of the capital, Dhaka, broke all records when it became the country's most expensive sacrificial animal.

"It was sold for 3.7 million taka (US$43,750)," owner Mohammad Imran Hossain said of the 1,400-kilogramme (about 3,100-pound) behemoth.

He told AFP the buyer was a garment factory owner.

Another Brahman bull -named "Messi" after the Ar-

Displaced people are being served food during a gathering to celebrate Eid Al-Adha at a relief camp at Kunnukara in Ernakulam district in the south Indian state of Kerala on Monday. — AFP Continued from Page 1 In the western states of Gujarat and Maharashtra the death toll reached 91, with hundreds of thousands rescued from inundated regions.

"Our teams have recovered 49 bodies so far from different regions including Sangli,

Kolhapur, Satara and Pune, and most deaths were caused due to drowning and wall collapses," Deepak Mhaisekar, divisional commissioner of Pune told AFP. "The situation is under control now," he added, though the casualty count may increase slightly.

India has deployed the army, navy and air force to work with the local emergency personnel for search, rescue and relief operations.

The monsoon rains are crucial to replenishing water supplies in drought-stricken India, but they kill hundreds of people across the country every year.

India to ease Kashmir curfew...

Continued from Page 1 - 'No bullets fired' India's home ministry said Tuesday that since the curfew was imposed, "no bullets have been fired".

But Munir Khan, a senior police officer in Kashmir, said that the military has used pellet-firing shotguns.

"There have been 2-3 pellet injuries but they are nothing major. There is nothing grave," Khan told AFP. He added that some security personnel were

also injured.

held fan to keep her cool.

In Srinagar's main SMHS Hospital, one young man was nursing his eye, saying he had been shot by pellets fired by soldiers as he came out of a mosque on Monday.

According to her uncle, she was shot in the eye by a marble fired from a catapult by an Indian soldier at a checkpoint as they rode on his scooter on Monday evening.

"We could not pray in peace on the day of Eid. A large number of soldiers surrounded the mosque," a man by his bedside said, also declining to give his name.

"She screamed and blood from her eye started oozing through her fingers as she covered her face with both hands,” Farooq Ahmad said.

Elsewhere in the ward, sixyear-old Munefa Nazir slept with her right eye bandaged as her family took turns waving a hand-

The 1,000-bed SMHS is usually busy but because of the curfew only a few beds were occupied.

ASIA/US

VOICE OF ASIA 9

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Trump says Xi can 'quickly and humanely solve' HK standoff

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E R K E L E Y HEIGHTS, Hong Kong | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said Xi Jinping can "humanely" resolve the violent standoff with protesters in Hong Kong and appeared to suggest meeting the Chinese leader.

"I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it,"

Trump tweeted from vacation at his golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey.

"Personal meeting?" he added in what appeared to be an idea for offering his own help to Xi directly.

The United States has said it is "deeply concerned" over Chinese security force movements on the border with Hong Kong and urged Beijing to honor the territory's autonomy.

Protesters have staged 10 weeks of relentless protests to demand greater freedoms in Hong Kong, including rallies that paralyzed the semi-autonomous city's airport, one of

Under a 1997 deal that saw Hong Kong return to China from British colonial rule, the city is meant to have far greater liberties than those allowed on the mainland.

Trump's Kashmir mediation offer not on table anymore, says Indian Ambassador to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on August 12 that America's decades-old policy on Kashmir has been no mediation but to encourage India and Pakistan to resolve their differences bilaterally.

Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla. (Facebook)

Aug 13, 2019, PTI

U

S President Donald Trump has made it clear that his offer of mediation on Kashmir is not on the table anymore, the Indian ambassador has said.

Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on August 12 that America's decadesold policy on Kashmir has been no mediation but to encourage India and Pakistan to resolve their differences bilaterally.

"President Trump has made it very clear that his offer to mediate on Jammu and Kashmir is dependent on both India and Pakistan accepting it.

Since India has not accepted the offer of mediation, he has made it clear that this is not on the table anymore,” Shringla told Fox News, the favourite news channel of the US president.

On July 22, during his joint media appearance with Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan at the White House, President Trump stunned India by saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought his mediation/arbitration on the Kashmir issue, a claim that was seen by many as outlandish and carrying little credibility.

India asserted that no such request was made by Prime Minister Modi to the US president and all issues will have to be resolved with Islamabad bilaterally.

A week later, Trump climbed down from his previous statement, saying it was up to India and Pakistan to resolve the Kashmir issue but he was ready to assist if the two South Asian neighbours wanted him to help in resolving the issue.

He said India made it clear to America that any discussion on the issue, if at all warranted, will only be with Pakistan and only bilaterally, which has long been India's stated position.

Shringla said that America's policy on Kashmir has been no mediation but to

the world's busiest travel hubs.

encourage the two South Asian neighbours to resolve their differences bilaterally including on Kashmir, the pace and scope of which would be chosen by New Delhi and Islamabad.

“That has been the United States longstanding policy,” he said in response to a question referring to America's decades-old policy.

Shringla said UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was also very clear on the issue.

"He says, this issue has to be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan in keeping with the agreements that the two countries have signed: the Simla Agreement and the Lahore Declaration,” he said.

"So, this is not an issue that is to be settled with, third parties. I think that was something that President Trump clarified and made clear,” Shringla said.

State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus last week said that there is no change in its policy on Kashmir as it called on India and Pakistan to maintain restraint and hold direct dialogue to resolve their differences.

Responding to a question, Shringla said that the measures taken by the Indian government in Kashmir are temporary and preventive in nature.

“When the decision was announced, the possibilities of cross border infiltration and terrorism, we know that there would be incitement to violence. We have simply taken preventive steps,” he said.

“The restrictions in Kashmir are being eased even as we speak. Tens of thousands of people came out to celebrate the festival of Eid. They went to mosque, they prayed, the shops are open.

There's even traffic jams in several cities. And we are progressively easing on the restrictions,” Shringla said.

Also watch video on FOX News: Bret Baier talks brewing Kashmir conflict with Indian, Pakistani ambassadors to US

After initially just voicing their demands with peaceful demonstrations, the protesters adopted more aggressive tactics (AFP Photo/Manan VATSYAYANA)

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 10

Jointly organized by Hindus of Greater Houston & ISKCON of Houston

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FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Spectacular Sri Krishna Janmashtami Friday, Aug 23rd 2019 planned

OUSTON, TX. – Hindus of Greater Houston (HGH) & ISKCON of Houston celebrates this year’s auspicious Krishna Janmashtami (birthday of Lord Krishna) at ISKCON’s state of the art temple at 1320 West 34th St., Houston, on Friday, August 23rd from 6pm till midnight.

The premiere communitywide festival—observed on the actual divine astrological evening—is free and open to all, a perfect event to invite neighbors and colleagues to showcase the rich Hindu culture which contributes to Houston’s diversity. The evening runs on two simultaneous tracks: cultural programs in the Gauranga Community Hall, and spiritual discussions and kirtan in the temple.

The temple will be decorated with a multitude of fresh flowers, with live kirtan, spectacular darshan (audience) of the Lord, 3 aratis (worship ceremonies) at 7:00, 9:00 & midnight, and a discourse on the importance of Janmashtami. The midnight arati draws more than thousand devotees, who chant & dance ecstatically to welcome the Lord dressed in His new outfit.

In addition, there will be opportunities to perform abhishek (ceremonial bathing of the Deity), jhulan (swinging the Lord), guided mantra meditation, anointing with tilak (sacred clay) and children’s activities.

Vendors will offer literature & other items. Nila Madhava’s Boutique in the temple building offers Indian musical instruments & CDs, art, clothing, jewelry, books & a variety of snacks.

“We are bringing the best from 30 years of celebrations

by HGH and 40 years of celebrations by ISKCON of Houston - the most spectacular celebration of Birthday of Lord Krishna. This year, it will be a very special one for all to come and see how a spiritual party is staged! The children's costume contest will showcase an array of Divine characters in the form of divine kids.” - Thara Narasimhan (HGH President) “Cultural program consists of all Indian classical dances and Folk beat. ISKCON youth will present an upbeat dance based on Krishna Leela. Sunday school children will be presenting Striking of the Body, a skit illustrating the constitutional position of the human body.

Sunday school children are performing orchestra on the tem-

Join HMSLH for a diabetes education seminar on Oct. 10

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UGAR LAND, Aug. 6, 2019 - If you have diabetes, it’s important to work with your health care providers to stay on top of your health. “With proactive lifestyle measures, regular health care and medication, you can limit complications from diabetes and live a long and healthy life,” said Christine Fisher, M.S.N, R.N., C.D.E., inpatient diabetes educator with Houston Methodist Sugar Land Hospital. “You’ll need to keep your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control.”

The following steps can help you stay healthy: • Follow a meal plan developed with your doctor or dietitian • Exercise for at least 30 minutes most days • Achieve and maintain a healthy weight • Take medicine as prescribed • Don’t smoke • Visit an eye-care professional yearly for a complete eye exam • See your dentist twice a year for exams and cleanings.

Brush and floss every day To schedule an appointment online with one of our primary care physicians, visit houstonmethodist.org/pcg/southwest or call 281.274.7500 for a physician in your area. visit events.houstonmethodist.org/ diabetes-sl

Krishna Janmashtami: Children's costume contest depicting a range of divine characters. File photo Janmashtami celebrations ple grounds all evening.” – Sasi Mukhi Devi Dasi (ISKCON of Houston) Although the delicious free vegetarian dinner is always a

crowd favorite, attendees also have the option to dine at Govinda’s, ISKCON’s popular new vegetarian restaurant, right on the temple property.

Free and convenient parking and shuttle service from Waltrip High School 1900 West 34th St.

There will be NO PARKING available at the temple. Please plan accordingly.

Please visit: sofhouston.org

www.hinduor https://

iskconhouston.org/event/janmashtamihouston/ For further information, please contact Vijay Pallod at 713-562-1920

VOICE OF ASIA 11

Fort Bend View

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Sugar Land, Katy, Stafford, Missouri City, Richmond, Rosenberg and Meadows Place

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

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Section 2

Tel: 713-774-5140

A gun range in Katy advertised a 'back-to-school' firearms sale

Get mutton bustin' at Fort Bend County Fair this fall

ATY, (KTRK) -- A gun store in Katy is facing backlash after what was posted on their marquee sign.

OSENBERG - If your child missed out on some Mutton Bustin' earlier this year at RodeoHouston, the Fort Bend County Fair is giving little ones the next chance at a ride.

K

R

Michelle Simons, an ABC13 viewer, sent a photo of Boyert Shooting Center's sign reading "Back to school sale August 13 through 18. Up to 50 percent off firearms."

Fair officials began accepting entries Tuesday morning. The fair is accepting the first 100 qualified entries.

Simons and her husband were driving down Mason Road when they passed the gun store and were surprised by its sign.

"It was so jarring like, 'Did I really see that?'" recalled Simons.

Simons' husband is an educator and feels as though guns and schools should not be mixed in with each other.

He says when his school district makes him teach his students about active shooter safety, he feels for them because they shouldn't have to worry about going through that.

"In the current climate and in the current culture where we have school shootings just

Photo: KTRK

constantly, mass shootings just constantly, it seems like a real poor choice of words," Simons said.

The couple is now wondering if the sign was intentional or a ploy to cause controversy.

"I hope it was just some kind of glaring oversight. I would rather see any other kind of wording on their board," Simons said. "What does back to school have anything to do with getting guns?"

Boyert Shooting Center sent ABC13 the following state-

ment: "We have friends and family who are teachers and our way of reaching out and saying thank you is by offering a summer long promotion of discounted training courses, firearms and accessories. A lot of Texans are not aware, but it is now legal to conceal carry in some colleges, and for teachers in certain school districts to conceal carry as well. We are wrapping up the program that we have been running since the beginning of June, with a huge sale to benefit everyone."

Houston man charged with murder, attempted murder of Peace Officer

S

UGAR LAND, Monday, August 12, 2019 - Sugar Land police arrested Sheldon Magee, 44, of Houston, for the murder of Kiva Herrera, 38, of Houston, on Aug. 11.

Police responded to a shooting at the Courtyard by Marriott, 16740 Creekbend Drive, on Aug. 11 at 1:15 p.m. Witnesses reported seeing an altercation between Magee and Herrera in the parking lot of the hotel followed by the sounds of gunshots.

When police arrived, Herrera was found with a gunshot wound to the head. Firstresponders performed CPR, but she was later pronounced dead at the scene.

One of the first officers to arrive at the hotel located Magee near the parking lot holding a firearm. An exchange of gunfire occurred between Magee and the responding officer. Neither man was injured during the firefight, and Magee was taken into custody.

Police believe the shooting resulted from a domestic

Sheldon Magee, 44, of Houston (Photo: FB County Jail)

disturbance. Herrera had recently ended a relationship with Magee. He located her in the parking lot, where they argued just before he killed her.

ort Bend County Judge KP George announced Wednesday that the county will live stream all public meetings of the commissioners' court.

Archives of the live streams will also be available.

The streams of the county work sessions and official activities, including special meetings and workshops, will be available on the Fort Bend County web page.

"For the first time in history and in line with my vision for transparency in government, I am proud to live stream all official meetings and deliberations of Commissioners’ Court

Magee was later charged with murder and attempted murder of a peace officer. He remains in Fort Bend County Jail.

The commissioners' court meets the first, second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m.

including special meetings and workshops. Every resident regardless of location deserves the ability to see their County government at work and stay informed," George said.

LINK: https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/ departments/administration-ofjustice/commissioners-court - KPRC

2 teen boys shot in Fort Bend after being chased in car over argument

F

ORT BEND COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- Deputies in Fort Bend County are searching for the person they say shot into a car carrying four teenagers near Fresno.

The shooting happened in the Teal Run Meadows neighborhood along FM-521 between FM-2234 and Trammel-Fresno Road at around 9:40 p.m.

Wednesday.

The rides will take place over five days of the fair: Sept. 2728 and Oct. 4-6.

There is a $20 fee to enter the event.

You can download the documents you need to submit on

The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office says the four teens were involved in an argument with the suspected shooter and met up in Houston.

"The argument went south, (and the) victims in this car left the location and got chased by the shooter and got shot at," said FBCSO Lt. Scott Soland.

Deputies say a 17-year-old was shot in the hand and a

19-year-old was shot in the back.

Both teen boys are expected to survive.

The teens drove back home for help after the shooting and their car had at least one bullet hole in the trunk.

Deputies say they have a good idea who the shooter is.

Photo: KTRK

Fort Bend County Fair's website. Visit: https://fortbendcountyfair.com/events/2018/

mutton-bustin - KTRK

National search begins for new Sugar Land city manager

S

UGAR LAND - Sugar Land City Council hired Ralph Andersen & Associates to conduct a national search for Sugar Land's next city manager.

Allen Bogard plans to retire on Jan. 31, 2020. He joined the city in January 1995 as a deputy city manager and was promoted to city manager in 2001 after Sugar Land's first city manager, David Neeley, announced his resignation. During Bogard's 40-year career in the public sector, he also served as city manager in the cities of Keller and Winnsboro, as well as executive leadership positions in the cities of Plano and Dallas. ciates has provided executive search and consulting services to cities, counties, special districts, state agencies and other organizations since 1972. The company was one of the first in the nation to work exclusively in the public sector and has become a leader in local government issues.

You can now live stream all Fort Bend County public meetings

F

To compete, children must be 4 to 7 years old and weigh 55 pounds or less as of Sept.

27.

"The city of Sugar Land is conducting a nationwide search for a well-qualified and experienced city manager to lead in a top-performing city characterized by stability, bold thinking, strategic planning and fiscal strength," explained Ralph Andersen & Associates in its announcement to prospective candidates, which can

be found at www.ralphandersen.com/jobs/city-mgr-sugarland/.

and minimize the residential tax burden.

Ideal candidates will be evaluated on their ability to ensure the continuation of the Sugar Land Way, a mindset that has been around since the city's founding. In its broadest sense, it is a commitment to doing things differently, a cut above - a commitment to bold and thoughtful thinking designed to make life sweeter and more refined for the people and businesses that call Sugar Land home. Priority components of the "Sugar Land Way" include:

The next city manager will be selected based on abilities to ensure the city is positioned to meet future challenges and opportunities. Some of these include addressing the city's ageing infrastructure, ensuring the high standards of the community continue to be met, responding to the changing nature of retail shopping habits, providing opportunities for the community to continue to invest in amenities they've identified as important, meeting the drainage needs of residents, ensuring Sugar Land remains safer than ever before and retaining and attracting Sugar Land's champion workforce.

* ensuring Sugar Land remains safer than ever before by building upon years of investments in facilities and public safety innovations; * investing in aging infrastructure and facilities at the high level expected by Sugar Land residents; * retaining and challenging a champion workforce that consistently exceeds the high expectations of the Sugar Land community; * constantly improving the appearance of the community; and * building upon Sugar Land's position as an economic powerhouse and financial leader (as well as a focus on strengthened resilience) that allows the city to improve its quality of life

The Sugar Land City Charter identifies the city manager as the chief executive officer.

The manager is hired to serve City Council and the community and provides the professional expertise necessary to administer local government projects and programs. The manager prepares a budget for City Council's consideration; recruits, hires and supervises city staff; serves as City Council's chief adviser; enforces laws and ordinances; manages day-to-day affairs; and implements policy decisions.

- City of Sugar Land News

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VOICE OF ASIA 12

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

BOLLYWOOD - HOLLYWOOD Section 2

•

www.voiceofasia.news

•

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Madame Tussauds Singapore honors iconic Bollywood legend Sridevi

A

s a tribute to Bollywood icon Sridevi, Madame Tussauds Singapore announces the launch of her exclusive wax figure, crafted in memory of the legendary actress to coincide with what would have been her 56th birthday, August 13th.

Sridevi’s wax figure is the only one of its kind in the world and an exclusive addition to Madame Tussauds Singapore. Created posthumously, a team of 20 skilled artists worked closely with Sridevi’s family over the course of five months to replicate her pose, expressions, make-up and iconic outfit. “It was a privilege to recreate such a legendary star in close collaboration with her family,” said Lizzie Parkinson, Costumier from Merlin Magic Making team in the UK. “What made this project particularly challenging and interesting was the recreation of her outfit. Her crown, cuffs, earrings and dress brooch were 3D-printed, and went through numerous tests to achieve the level of detail needed. It was a joy to see everyone’s work come together and we look forward to unveiling the figure soon.”

The figure will be officially launched in early September by Sridevi’s husband Boney Kapoor, Indian film producer, and his two daughters, Janhvi Kapoor and Khushi Kapoor. He says, “I am touched that Madame Tussauds is honouring my wife, Sridevi Kapoor, and her work by having her figure immortalised. I, along with my family will be a part of the occasion when the figure is unveiled in Madame Tus-

King of Bollywood Details from the wax figure of Sridevi. (Photos: Madame Tussauds Singapore) sauds Singapore at the Ultimate Film Star Experience. We hope this exhibit can be a place for everybody to continue paying their tributes to her.”

Placed at a Mr. India set in the Ultimate Film Star Experience (UFSE) zone, the figure will be accompanied by a special memorial wall where Sridevi’s fans can leave their tribute messages. There will also be lucky fans from Madame Tussauds Singapore’s social media pages selected to join the event and witness the unveiling of the star’s wax figure along the family. Further details will be announced on their official Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages.

Alex Ward, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Singapore said, “Sridevi is an icon in Indian cinema and the Ultimate Film Star Experience (UFSE) zone would not be complete

without her. We are honoured to play a part in keeping her legacy alive in Madame Tussauds Singapore and look forward to unveiling the commemorative wax figure, the first and only one of its kind in the world, with Sridevi’s family soon.”

Sridevi is one of the most influential actresses of Indian cinema, inspiring numerous actresses and amassing hordes of fans worldwide. Regarded as the first female superstar of Indian cinema, she redefined the importance of female leads in India’s largely male-dominated film industry. Sridevi won countless accolades during her lifetime, including the prestigious National Film Award, the Nandi Award, as well as the Padma Shri. She established herself in Bollywood in a career that spanned five decades.

- MediaReach

Comedian Andy Dick reports attack in New Orleans

N

EW ORLEANS - Comedian Andy Dick says he was assaulted outside a New Orleans nightclub after performing in the French Quarter.

known for his role on the 1990s NBCTV show "NewsRadio." He was performing at a nightspot before the alleged assault.

Dick says he was taken by ambulance to a hospital, adding he was observed there for what he described as a "possible brain bleed."

Dick tells The Times-Picayune/The New Orleans Advocate he was unconscious for 15 minutes after someone knocked him to the ground with a punch early Saturday.

The comedian and musician is

Robert Couvillion, who promoted the show, says the performer didn't have any reason to expect to be attacked. He says he was "flabbergasted" by what happened.

Andy Dick at rauman’s Chinese Theatre, 2008. (Photo: Getty Images)

State police haven't made any arrests.

Monica Lewinsky scandal to be retold in American Crime Story

P

resident Clinton's affair with White House intern Monica Lewinsky and the 1999 impeachment proceedings it led to are to be dramatised on US television.

Lewinsky is among the producers on the FX show, which follows previous seasons devoted to the OJ Simpson trial and the murder of Gianni Versace.

Booksmart actress Beanie Feldstein will play Lewinsky in the drama.

Sarah Paulson, meanwhile, will play Linda Tripp, the civil servant who secretly recorded Lewinsky's private phone calls about her affair with the president.

It is not yet known who will play Bill and Hillary Clinton in the show, which will be based on a 2000 book by Jeffrey Toobin.

In a statement given to Vanity Fair, Lewinsky said she was "hesitant" and "more than a little scared" to be involved in the Ryan Murphy production.

But she said she had come around to the idea after "a lengthy dinner" with the American Horror Story producer and now felt "privileged to have this opportunity".

"People have been co-opting and telling my part in this story for decades," she continued. "It wasn't until the past few years that I've been able to fully reclaim my narrative.

"I'm so grateful for the growth we've made as a society that allows people like me who have been historically silenced to finally reintroduce my voice to the conversation."

Speaking on Tuesday, FX chairman John Landgraf defended the decision to premiere the show just as the US prepares to go the polls.

"I don't think Crime Story is going to

Shah Rukh Khan's plans to bring even more fans to Indian film

O

n a freezing cold night outside the Palais Theatre in St Kilda, a feverish crowd braves the spitting rain and bitter winds, restless, eager. The red carpet has been rolled out for the 10th annual Indian Film Festival in Melbourne and the Indian actor Shah Rukh Khan is this year’s guest of honour – and he’s running two hours late.

Khan, known simply as SRK, has starred in more than 80 feature films to date. His legions of fans include bespectacled aunties in sensible trainers, girls with glossy Parachute Coconut oiled hairdos, fidgety teens who pretend their parents haven’t accompanied them. “Where is he?” wails a young woman, rattling the barricade opposite Luna Park. Meanwhile, a soft, teasing chant of “Shah Rukh, Shah Rukh, Shah Rukh”starts up, as tabla players begin to circle.

When Khan finally arrives, joyful hysteria breaks out. People unselfconsciously climb over the metal barriers to surround him. Traffic grinds to a halt. Grown men trip over each other to get closer. Hands and legs fly in the air. Khan graciously waves and blows kisses, snapping selfies with the crowd. People dripping in bling and designer-wear scramble like schoolchildren to follow him into the theatre.

Khan is not simply the “king of Bollywood”, but one of the world’s biggest movie stars. Since arriving in Australia to open the Indian Film Festival he has also received an honorary doctorate at La Trobe University for his film work and his work supporting women’s empowerment, at another event attended by legions of fans. Khan may be living the life of someone with an estimated net worth of over US$600m now, but he tells Guardian Australia that his earliest memories of cinema are much simpler.

“My mum was a big movie lover, so I would sit down and press her feet, like most Indian kids do for their parents,” he says. He describes the early “anti-establishment” films of Amitabh Bachchan as inspirational because they proved that someone didn’t need to be highly educated to be successful.

As a young aspiring actor, that offered Khan a breakthrough: he was able to adopt a spirit of “OK I want to take things into my hand and make it big.”

Khan describes Bollywood in the early 1990s as a “liberal, happy time”.

“Yes, you have to work hard; yes, you have to come first; yes, you have to get a job but love was important, too,” he says.

The latest series of American Crime Story will air in the run-up to next year's presidential election.

Lewinsky, pictured left last year, will be played by Beanie Feldstein decide the next presidential election," he told journalists in Los Angeles.

The network boss also confirmed he would not be "reaching out" to the Clintons in order to seek their input.

Lewinsky, now 46, was 22 when she became romantically involved with Clinton, who was 27 years her senior.

The former president was impeached for perjury and later acquitted by Congress after lying about the

relationship.

Last year Lewinsky said Clinton's actions had been "a gross abuse of power" and that he had "enough life experience to know better".

Impeachment: American Crime Story will premiere in the US on 27 September 2020. The last two series of the show were both shown on BBC Two. - BBC News (Entertainment)

“When I became popular, the kind of cinema I did was maybe not so thought-provoking … It was more entertainment-provoking.” He namechecks some of his early hits: My Name is Khan, Chak De! India, Swades. “What happens is a star does get defined clearly for entertainment.

So you can’t veer too much away from that. It can be disappointing for your audience. But as an actor, I need to find more interesting things to do within the gravitas of stardom.”

People certainly find him entertaining, even in Australia, though perhaps that shouldn’t be surprising. Australia’s Indian population at the last census was 455,399, the largest number of which were in Victoria. Meanwhile, the presence and accessibility of Hindi language films here has only grown: at least 15 Bollywood films have been

www. voiceofasia.news Read the latest articles and news on BOLLYWOOD /HOLLYWOOD & ENTERTAINMENT Visit : www. voiceofasia.news

Photo: Julian Smith/EPA

shot in Australia since the 90s, including 2005’s Salaam Namaste and 2001’s Dil Chahta Hai. Major national cinema chains like Event and Hoyts also curate a rotating selection of the latest Indian movie releases every season. The catalogue of Hindi language films available on major streaming platforms is also growing, dubbing and subtitling breaking down language and cultural barriers for what was once known as foreign cinema.

Many early Bollywood films follow a trusted formula: boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl, and conflict bubbles as they struggle for family approval. However, a new generation of filmmakers are challenging whose stories deserve to be told and how, such as the director and screenwriter Zoya Akhtar, also a guest at this year’s festival, whose latest feature film, Gully Boy, fictionalises the lives of young Mumbai street rappers who chase dreams of fame while writing and performing music with autobiographical lyrics. It’s been called Bollywood’s first hip-hop film, and would have been unheard of in the industry 20 years ago.

“The understanding of India is that India is not one thing,” Akhtar says, when asked how international audiences have grown to interpret the subcontinent. “It’s not a monolith. It’s massive. It’s varied in terms of culture, language, food habits … So it’s not simple. You can’t just express it in one word.”

Historically, our cinema is a unique format: two and a half hours, an interval, not just one single storyline,” Khan says. He believes that will soon change: that with younger Indian filmmakers watching more international cinema, Hindi films will go beyond standard song-and-dance structures.

“I think all of that should get made into an international storytelling style.

There’s so many more stories for the world to take up. … We have a great culture of stories in our country. We just need to express them in newer ways so that we get more of an international audience attaching themselves to it.”

Mitu Bhowmick Lange, the director of the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, says that mythology, Bharatanatyam dance techniques, and the tradition of travelling musical theatre is at the root of India’s ancient folklore and cultural identity – traditions that are far older than the Indian film industry, which dates from the early 1900s. “That style of storytelling is very ingrained in our culture and in our history. I don’t think that can be removed that quickly or that easily, if at all.”

Bhowmick Lange says that it’s those elements of escapism and romance that set Bollywood apart from other kinds of cinema, especially in appealing to its primary audience: everyday Indian citizens. “At the end of the day, these films are also catering to somebody who is working around 18 hours and earning the equivalent of $2 a day.

So that person, too, needs … three hours away from all their worries,” she says.

For Khan though, the dream project is to go right back to the earliest forms of Indian mythology. He says he has long wanted to adapt the Mahabharata, one of the two epic Sanskrit poems based on a sacred Hindu text.

- Bollywood Hot News

LEGAL

VOICE OF ASIA 13

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

www.voiceofasia.news

Insurance Bad Faith - Has Your Insurance Claim Been Denied?

by Sharlene Sharmila Richards, Immigration Lawyer Email at srichardslaw@aol.com

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT ADJUSTING STATUS TO PERMANENT RESIDENT

Sharlene Sharmila Richards

When we purchase insurance policies, we expect that this policy will provide complete coverage for any unforeseen event. In fact, the insurance company guarantees this promise in order for you to purchase an insurance policy. However, insurance companies deny the majority of claims filed under a policy or significantly undervalue a claim and offer less than the total amount of damages, whether for businesses, homes, vehicles, other property, or even the loss of a loved one.

What is a bad faith claim?

A bad faith claim is one where an insurance company has failed to provide coverage under the insurance policy as promised, even though it was a valid claim. In Texas, the basis of such a claim is that the claimant or plaintiff is at a disadvantage from the insurance company, the insurance company’s actions were unreasonable, and the insurance company knowingly acted unfairly and not in good faith.

There are different types of bad faith claims including, but not limited to: • homeowner’s insurance claims • property damage claims • auto insurance claims • water damage claims

this on their own and should always hire an experienced attorney to help during this stressful period. An attorney will not stop until you receive fair compensation for all losses and damages including, up to three times the total claim if the insurance company acted with intent, court costs, attorneys’ fees with interest, mental anguish for individuals, and punitive damages or damages to punish the insurance company for their egregious behavior.

About the Author: Mala Sharma has been practicing family law and personal injury with her family at the Law Offices of Sharma & Associates, founded in 1997 with over 42 years of combined experience. Mala is a Board of Advocates for the Houston Trial Lawyers Association, Vice-Chair of the American Bar Association GP Solo YLD, member of the Houston Bar Association, President Emeritus of the Houston Northwest Bar Association, and prior board member of the South Asian Bar Association.

Disclaimer: This material is available for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. If you require advice on any particular legal question, you may contact Sharma & Associates at 281-893-8644 or by email at mala@sharmalaws.net to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW

COMPETENCE

GEORGE R. WILLY Principal Attorney

JAMES W. PARKER

Associate Attorney

STEPHANIE STUBBE Associate Attorney

Managing Attorney

Q: I am here in the US with my family and my brother who is a US Citizen filed a petition for me several years ago. I am currently holding valid F-1 student status. Will I be able to adjust my status in the United States?

A: That depends. Because you are not an immediate relative of your brother, you will have to wait for your priority date to become current of if USCIS publishes on their website that you may file for adjustment of status at the appropriate time. If you wish to file for adjustment of status in the US, you will have to be maintaining your status the whole entire time until your priority date has become current and at the time your file for adjustment of status.

Q: I applied for my permanent residence but did not include Form I-131 in my application for advance parole. My application is still pending and I have to return to my home country for an emergency. Can I travel and return back without the advance parole?

A: It is possible that if you travel without the advance parole, you will not be permitted to return to the US unless you still have a valid visa and have not acquired a period of unlawful presence which would bar a re-entry to the US. Traveling without advance parole while your application for adjustment of status is still pending will also result in the abandonment of your permanent residence application.

Q: I am filing for adjustment of status as a parent of a US Citizen. Will I need to have an interview for the adjustment?

A: For parents of US Citizens, USCIS will normally waive the interview requirement unless there appears to be issues in your case such as a prior arrest or other immigration violations.

Q: I attended my adjustment interview and was informed that there are no more visas in my third preference employment-based category and the immigration officer told me to wait but did not tell me how long I need to wait.

fiscal year. The next fiscal year begins on October 1st, 2019. As such, be prepared to hear from USCIS at that time as USCIS will begin allotting the newly available visas.

Q: I entered the US illegally and I am married to a US Citizen. I have not departed the US. Am I eligible to adjust status in the US? A: If you entered the US illegally, generally you cannot adjust your status to permanent residence by marriage to a US Citizen.

You will need to obtain a I-601A Waiver for Unlawful Presence and later depart the US to obtain your immigrant visa at the US Consulate in your home country. Only certain individuals who entered the US illegally may adjust their status in the US for example those who qualify under the battered spouse exception or have been grandfathered under 245(i) or if they are adjusting under a different basis for example, having held asylee status for at least one year etc.

Disclaimer: Any advice provided in this article is general in nature and not intended to constitute legal advice for any specific case. Please consult with an immigration lawyer about the specific circumstances of your case.

My Bio Sharlene Sharmila Richards is a licensed Immigration Lawyer practicing in Houston, Texas. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2000 and is a member of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and a member of the US Supreme Court. If you require advice or assistance, you may contact her at telephone number 713-623-8088 or by email at srichardslaw@aol.com to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

A: Typically, in such a situation where the visas are no longer available, you will need to wait until the start of our Government’s the next

Sharlene Sharmila Richards

OF COUNSEL

SPECIAL ADVISORS

A: You will file for what is known as an adjustment of status to permanent resident. Your US Citizen husband will file his I-130 Petition for Alien Relative for you as beneficiary and you will concurrently file your application for adjustment of status to permanent resident using Form I-485.

Do not forget to also file the separate applications for Work Authorization and Advance Parole using Forms I-765 and Form I-131 respectively.

Q: I came to the US on a Fiancee K-1 visa. I married my US Citizen K-1 petitioner last week within the 90 days deadline required under the K-1 visa program. What forms do I need to complete to apply for permanent resi-

ATTORNEYS

CHIRANJAYA “ CHIRO” NANAYAKKARA

A: You will need to file your application for adjustment of status to permanent resident using Form I-485. Do not forget to also file the separate applications for Work Authorization and Advance Parole using Form I-765 and Form I-131 respectively. Your spouse need not file a separate I-130 Petition for Alien Relative.

A: Your sponsor or spouse will need to complete Form I-864 Affidavit of Support or I-864EZ.

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Q: For permanent residence, my sponsor or spouse has to provide proof of his ability provide financial support to me. What Form is needed for this?

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Q: I came legally to the US with a tourist visa and I got married to a US Citizen. What do I have to do to apply for my permanent residence so that I can live here with my husband?

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VOICE OF ASIA 14

Section 2

Young Life

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3 ways to save time and money on Back-to-School shopping

www.voiceofasia.news

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

Tel: 713-774-5140

High-speed internet access critical for students and job seekers

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he job market is rapidly changing, thanks to new and emerging technologies. As a result, job training has become highly specialized, even at the high school level.

While young people living in urban and suburban communities often benefit from on-site access to the specialized education that they will need for future career success, those living in rural areas must sometimes rely on distance education to get the same training, as smaller rural schools can’t always realistically offer a wide range of specialized coursework.

With this in mind, a recent report from NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association, highlights the need for high-speed Internet access in every community nationwide to meet the demands of tomorrow’s job market.

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Daria Filiminova / stock.Adobe.com

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ew grade levels and new routines mean it’s time to purchase back-to-school essentials that will help make this year a success. Though this time of year can be stressful for parents, a few tips below will go a long way to helping you navigate a new school year.

Save More on School Supplies School supplies are often the top priority for parents and students when shopping for back-to-school season.

Start by referencing your students’ school supply list given by the school and determining if you have leftover items from the previous school year that can be reused. Check to see if your state offers a tax-free weekend incentive to save even more. From pencils and paper to binders, markers, calculators and planners, you can enjoy hundreds of deals on the products most purchased during back-to-school season.

Meal Prep Made Simple The new school year is often more chaotic than laid-back summer days, especially when it comes to preparing meals for your family. De-stress meal planning by taking one day a week to search ideas for breakfast, lunch and dinner with resources like DG Easy Meals, available at dollargeneral.

com/easy-meals. Shop ahead for easy snacks for your family to eat between activities, like nuts, pretzels and trail mix. Making the switch to private brand items, like the Clover Valley brand at Dollar General can help you save on snacks and treats you already love. With the right amount of preparation, you can easily knock meal and snack planning off your list in no time!

Take Advantage of Discounts Buying back-to-school items for one or more students can get pricey. While shopping for necessities, look to save even more through coupons and digital coupons. Download Dollar General Digital Coupons and check out deals before you shop. Now through September 7, all customers can save $5 on a $15 purchase of school supplies, and teachers can save 20 percent on stationery items every time they shop with a valid ID. Downloading savings before you shop saves you time in-store and ensures you are getting the best possible deals on back-to-school items. For deals, visit dg.coupons.com/coupons.

This season, don’t be overwhelmed as you take on your back-to-school shopping. With a bit of preparation, you can save time and money getting ready for the new academic year.

- StatePoint

MasterClass founder launching online college credit courses, failures get a refund

by Victoria Song

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aise your hand if Calculus 101 made you want to tear your hair out in college. If so, then you might be one of the people MasterClass Cofounder Aaron Rasmussen had in mind when creating his new startup Outlier.org.

Starting this fall semester, the new venture will offer two classes—Calculus I and Introduction to Psychology—online for $400 per course and actual college credit.

The main idea behind Outlier is to provide acces- Aaron Rasmussen sible college classes at a fraction of the cost. To do that, the startup is partnerthe Intro to Psychology class will be ing with the University of Pittsburgh taught by twelve educators from New so that upon passing the class, you can York University, Yale, and Columbia, transfer three credits to any school of among others. choice. The $400 fee also covers the In a TechCrunch interview, Rascost of textbooks, and Outlier says that any student who does not pass “with mussen noted that 1 million students a grade sufficient to receive univer- take Calculus 1 each year and pay sity credits” will receive a full refund. an average cost of $2,500—with 40 Outlier’s website also indicates that percent failing after plunking all that students will have the opportunity for time and money down. In that respect, small group work via video chats. The what Outlier is doing is pretty cool. courses themselves have also been Theoretically, if your university crams filmed in “dark mode” as Outlier says every single freshman alive into Cal“many students use their laptops late culus I class, you could instead sign at night, and don’t feel like staring into up with Outlier to get a smaller size, a lightbulb.” The only thing you need easier pace, multiple teacher options, to apply is a high school degree or and actual credits for less money. The GED, and a computer with a webcam, same is true for students who might microphone, and Google Chrome. want to learn over the summer, or may (Calculus students will also need to not be able to attend classes in person due to life circumstances. (That said, take a pretest.)

Outlier does not yet accept financial Taking a page from MasterClass, the aid, though it “hopes to in the future.”)

Outlier courses will be taught by actuSo far, Outlier is only offering two al experts. The Calculus course will be taught by three different instructors— pilot classes, both of which start on Dr. Hannah Fry from University Col- September 9th. While the goal is to lege London, John Urschel from MIT, offer more over time, Rasmussen told and Dr. Tim Chartier from Davidson TechCrunch that the startup is focusCollege. Students will have the option ing on a range of basic level courses to switch between professors, depend- and reducing the first two years of stuing on their learning style. Likewise, dent debt. - Gizmodo

With two job categories poised for demand, middle-skill and STEM jobs, experts say that reliable rural broadband access will help ensure that there are enough trained workers available to fill the next generation of American jobs, while also helping to expand job opportunities for a greater number of young people.

Rural broadband providers continue to play a vital role. By leveraging their networks and working closely with local educational institutions, they are providing fiber connectivity and broadband to schools in harder-toreach locations. As a result of these initiatives, a greater number of communities and schools can offer specialized coursework, career guidance and more to their students, helping to build local career opportunities and strengthen local economies.

Those who have directly benefitted from rural broadband echo this sentiment.

“High-speed internet service in my rural area allowed me to participate more fully in high school and gave me the chance to explore more opportunities after graduation. I am so grateful

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Sergii Mostovyi / stock.Adobe.com

for the access it provided me, I am now actually working at a broadband company myself and plan to study business management and marketing at school,” says Devin Bryant, a young adult living and working in Abbeville, S.C. “Good service allows me to stay in my rural area near family and friends and still pursue the job opportunities I want.”

With an effort already underway by

NTCA to build smart and connected rural communities, experts say you can expect to see expanded educational opportunities and strengthened local economies nationwide. To learn more about these efforts, visit ntca. org.

Access to reliable broadband is vital for today’s young people in their search for education and job training.

- StatePoint

Challenging fears: Six worries young entrepreneurs faced when first starting out

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ost young entrepreneurs are well acquainted with the risks of going into business by themselves. It's a constant struggle to ensure that you meet all your obligations, and it's easy to find yourself sidetracked. Whether it’s paying the bills and staying in business or even growing too fast, fears and worries are ever-present, especially for a young business owner who is just starting out.

But a willingness to identify and tackle entrepreneurial fears is what ultimately sets successful business owners apart from others. To help, members of Young Entrepreneur Council share some of the business aspects they were most worried about when starting their entrepreneurial journey and how they sought to overcome them. Here's what they said: 1. Balancing Important Tasks I was most concerned with the balance of my time between executing technically and performing business development. My best solution was networking with individuals who had large professional networks and appreciated my technical abilities and how I could help them. The most effective and repeatable business development approach I've seen is the "You have to work with this company!" approach and personal referrals. - Mark Plaskow, Scientific Clinics 2. Growing Too Fast I never became worried until we experienced our first hyper-growth.

Growing too fast can put a company out of business just as fast as low sales.

My worry was not being able to manage such a large workload with such a small team, inventory management, operations and work-life balance. To overcome our hyper-growth, we had to close enrollment into our company so we could focus on what we already had in front of us and build a stronger foundation for our company. When we opened enrollment again, we came back stronger and the excitement around the opportunity was more desirable and exciting. - Madison Mallardi, LimeLife by Alcone 3. Lack Of Experience My co-founders and I have strong technical backgrounds, but less experience in running a business. We had a lot to learn. Early on, we knew we needed good mentors to help advise

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us, and fortunately, we have had several along the journey. We still rely on their advice today. - Alex Robinson, Atomic Robot 4. Product Quality I knew the vape industry was starting to be “trendy,” but I didn’t just want to jump on the bandwagon—I really wanted to develop a quality product that would provide something to our customers that they couldn’t get anywhere else. That’s why my partner and I spent so much time in product development before we officially launched our company. We tested and retested our products and made sure they were as good as they could possibly be. - Nick Bull, Propaganda Premium E-Liquid 5. Reaching Customers One worry: How to actually reach customers and get enough of their mindshare to have the chance to sell our products. In short, we made the all too common mistake of building a product and then believing that people would show up at our doorstep to buy it simply by virtue of the inherent quality of the product. In practice that couldn't be further from reality.

Ultimately, having a cogent customer acquisition strategy—one that doesn't rely on tons of Facebook marketing dollars—was absolutely critical to

our long-term success. We invested heavily in building a content arm and developing owned channels like large social followings and an email list that serve as the bedrock of our community and customer base. - Colin Darretta, DojoMojo 6. How Much To Charge When it was time to raise my fees, I had no idea how much to charge and I couldn’t escape the horrible feeling that I was doing something that would “hurt” my clients; the people I was grateful for. To overcome this hurdle, I learned something that I call the distinction: "Formula vs. Feelings."

The formula is, think of the most you could possibly charge for one hour of your time and then double it and start charging the new amount immediately. Mind you, this is predicated on the fact that you’re doing something unique and incredibly valuable. Then remind yourself you will have many voices in your head justifying why you shouldn’t charge the new amount.

The feelings are based on the individual you have always been. The new amount is based on the individual you are becoming. You can be of more service in life if you have more money.

So, ignore the feelings and trust in the formula and you will make more to do more. - Walker Clark, Walker Clark Coaching LLC

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FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

August is Suicide Prevention Month

August is Prevention of Underage Drinking and Driving Prevention Month

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Global measles cases triple year-on-year, WHO reports

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ENEVA, Switzerland | AFP | Tuesday 8/13/2019 Measles cases nearly tripled globally during the first seven months of the year compared to the same period in 2018, the World Health Organization said Tuesday, amid growing concern over public resistance to the vaccine.

Coverage of preventive services is one of the most important parts of Medicare’s role in keeping people healthy.

Medicare helps pay, as per your Medicare plan, for four vaccines, each of which you should discuss with your doctor to protect yourself!

So far this year, 364,808 measles cases were reported around the world, compared to 129,239 cases during the first seven months a year earlier.

These numbers are "the highest (registered) since 2006," WHO spokesman Christian Lindmeier told reporters in Geneva.

The numbers are especially worrying since only about one in 10 actual measles cases are believed to be reported worldwide, according to WHO. Measles, which is highly contagious, can be entirely prevented through a two-dose vaccine, but the World Health Organization (WHO) has in recent months sounded the alarm over vaccination rates.

Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar and Ukraine registered the highest number of cases, WHO said.

In Madagascar, which registered around 127,500 cases during the first half of this year alone, numbers have meanwhile dropped considerably in recent months following an emergency national vaccination campaign, the UN health agency stressed.

Measles cases have soared worldwide, with the African region seeing a 900-percent jump in cases year-onyear, while cases rose 230 percent in the western Pacific.

Angola, Cameroon, Chad, Kazakhstan, Nigeria, the Philippines, Sudan, South Sudan and Thailand have all

Influenza Vaccine

The US is experiencing its worst outbreak since 1992 (Picture: Getty Images/ iStockphoto) seen major outbreaks of the disease.

- 'Misinformation' The United States has meanwhile registered 1,164 cases so far this year, compared to 372 for all of 2018 and the highest number on record in a quarter century.

And in the European region, nearly 90,000 cases have been registered this year -- well above the 84,462 cases registered last year.

Measles -- an airborne infection causing fever, coughing and rashes that can be deadly in rare cases -- had been officially eliminated in many countries with advanced healthcare systems.

But the so-called anti-vax movement -- driven by fraudulent claims linking the MMR vaccine against measles, mumps and rubella, and a risk of autism in children -- has gained traction.

WHO pointed out that the reasons for people not being vaccinated vary significantly between communities and countries, with a lack of access to quality healthcare or vaccination services hindering some from getting the jabs, while others are led astray by "misinformation about vaccines, or low awareness about the need to vaccinate."

The measles vaccine is a "safe and highly effective vaccine", WHO stressed in a statement, urging "everyone to ensure their measles vaccinations are up to date."

Uneven vaccination coverage and gaps and disparities between communities, geographic areas, and among age-groups has allowed measles to flourish even in countries with high national vaccine rates, WHO warned.

"When enough people who are not immune are exposed to measles, it can very quickly spread," it said.

Intensive blood pressure control may slow age-related brain damage NIH-funded imaging study shows link between blood pressure and white matter lesions.

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ASHINGTON, Tuesday, August 13, 2019 - In a nationwide study, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to scan the brains of hundreds of participants in the National Institutes of Health’s Systolic Blood Pressure Intervention Trial (SPRINT) and found that intensively controlling a person’s blood pressure was more effective at slowing the accumulation of white matter lesions than standard treatment of high blood pressure.

The results complement a previous study published by the same research group which showed that intensive treatment significantly lowered the chances that participants developed mild cognitive impairment.

“These initial results support a growing body of evidence suggesting that controlling blood pressure may not only reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease but also of age-related cognitive loss,” said Walter J. Koroshetz, M.D., director of the NIH’s National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). “I strongly urge people to know your blood pressure and discuss with your doctors how to optimize control. It may be a key to your future brain health.”

Brain white matter is made up of billions of thin nerve fibers, called axons, that connect the neurons with each other. The fibers are covered by myelin, a white fatty coating that protects axons from injury and speeds the flow of electrical signals. White mat-

Medicare Insurance covers Four important Vaccines for Seniors

ter lesions, which appear bright white on MRI scans, represent an increase in water content and reflect a variety of changes deep inside the brain, including the thinning of myelin, increased glial cell reactions to injury, leaky brain blood vessels, or multiple strokes. These changes are associated with high blood pressure, or “hypertension”.

As described on the NIH’s Mind Your Risks website, several studies have suggested that people who have hypertension have a greater chance of accumulating white matter lesions and also of experiencing cognitive disorders and dementia later in life.

These observations were tested in a “gold standard” randomized clinical trial, called SPRINT Memory and Cognition in Decreased Hypertension (MIND), which examined whether controlling blood pressure levels could prevent or slow white matter lesion progression and aging brain disorders. The results were published on Aug. 13, 2019 in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

“These findings on white matter lesions - primarily in the aggressive control of blood pressure - are encouraging as we continue to advance the science of understanding and addressing the complexities of brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and related dementias,” said Richard J. Hodes, M.D., director of the NIH’s National Institute on Aging (NIA).

Launched in 2010, the NIH-sup-

ported SPRINT effort initially enabled scientists to compare the effects of standard versus intensive blood pressure control on cardiovascular health and mortality. More than 9,300 adults who were at least 50 years old and had a high risk for cardiovascular disease received either standard treatment, which lowered systolic blood pressure, the first of two numbers measured during an exam, to less than 140 mm Hg (<140 mm Hg), or intensive treatment to lower the same pressure reading below 120 mm Hg (<120 mm Hg). In August 2015, NIH surprisingly ended the trial early after initial results showed that 3.3 years of intensive treatment significantly reduced the rates of death and cardiovascular disease.

“Intensive treatment significantly reduced white matter lesion accumulation in people who had a higher chance of experiencing this kind of damage because they had high blood pressure,” said Clinton B. Wright, M.S., M.D., director of the Division of Clinical Research at NINDS, and an author of the study.

The SPRINT MIND researchers also reported slightly more loss of brain volume.

- NIH.com

• What is the flu? The flu—or influenza—is a contagious respiratory illness that can be severe and life-threatening.

• Why is it important for older adults to get the flu shot? Older adults— even if you are healthy—are at higher risk when it comes to the flu due to agerelated weakening of our immune systems, making it more difficult for us to fight off disease. For the 86% of adults 65+ who are managing a chronic condition—like diabetes or heart disease— the flu can be even more dangerous because you are more likely to develop complications or become hospitalized.

Flu combined with pneumonia—a common acute condition among the aging population—is one of the top 10 causes of death for those aged 65+ in the U.S. According to the CDC, the flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu.

• How does Medicare cover the cost of the flu shot? The flu vaccine is a once a year, cost-free Medicare B benefit. For Original Medicare, you must use a physician or healthcare provider who accepts Medicare assignment, and for Medicare Advantage, you may have to use an in-network doctor or pharmacy.

Shingles Vaccine • What is Shingles? Shingles is a painful skin rash that’s caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox.

Shingles is less contagious than chickenpox and can only be passed on to another person up until the point when the infected person’s blisters begin to scab.

Even after shingles passes, long-term pain can linger.

• How does Medicare cover the cost of the shingles vaccine? All Medicare Part D drug plans, or Medicare Advantage plans that include prescription coverage, typically cover the shingles vaccine. However, there is usually an out-of-pocket cost. Depending on your plan, you will either be responsible for a copayment (fixed dollar amount) or coinsurance (percentage of the vaccine’s cost). You are likely to have the least out-of-pocket expenses if you use a pharmacy in your plan’s network. Each plan has specific rules for covering the vaccine itself, as well as the administration of the injection, so it’s best to contact your insurance company directly to find out your specific out-of-pocket cost, and any rules you must follow regarding where you receive the vaccine.

Sudhir Mathuria HEALTHLIFE 360 713-771-2900 Pneumococcal Vaccine • What is pneumococcal disease? Pneumococcal disease causes severe infections throughout the bloodstream and/or key organs. While you may not have heard of pneumococcal disease, you have probably heard of the conditions that result from this disease, including pneumonia (infection of the lungs), meningitis (infection of the lining of the brain and spinal cord), and bacteremia (infection of the bloodstream). Pneumococcal disease can result in deafness, brain damage, loss of limbs, and even death.

• Why is it important for older adults to get the pneumococcal vaccine?

Pneumococcal disease kills 18,000 adults 65+ each year. A weakening immune system means that older adults are at greater risk, and can face more severe side effects, especially those who are managing chronic diseases.

• How does Medicare cover the cost of the pneumococcal vaccine?

The pneumococcal vaccine is a costfree benefit covered by Medicare Part B. For Original Medicare, you must use a physician or healthcare provider who accepts Medicare assignment, and for Medicare Advantage, you may have to use an in-network doctor or pharmacy.

Hepatitis B Vaccine • What is the hepatitis B virus?

Hepatitis B (or hep B) is a contagious virus that infects the liver.

• How does Medicare cover the cost of the hepatitis B vaccine? Medicare Part B insurance covers the full cost of the hep B vaccine(s) if a doctor determines that you are at high or medium risk of contracting the hep B virus, and the physician or healthcare provider administering the vaccine accepts Medicare assignment. Consult your doctor to determine your risk of getting hep B. Source: My Medicare Matters. org To select right Medicare Supplement plan, Medicare Prescription Drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan contact Sudhir Mathuria at 713-771-2900.

VOICE OF ASIA 16

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Senior Living

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

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Caution: remove false teeth before surgery

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Anyone reading this account of what happened next is unlikely to make the same mistake.

Six days after having a benign lump removed from his belly while under general anaesthesia, Jack turned up at the emergency room.

"He was also feeling short of breath, particularly when lying down, and had taken to sleeping upright," Harriet Cunniffe, an ear, nose and throat surgeon at Universities Hospitals NHS in Yarmouth noted.

The ER doctor suspected a type of pneumonia often caused by inhaling food or stomach acid into the lungs, and admitted Jack into hospital.

That's when a nasendoscopy -- a fibre optic camera on the end of a tube inserted through a nostril -- revealed a large, semicircular object covering his vocal cords.

Understanding Ayurveda

This is what Ayurveda teaches.

It’s about taking responsibility of your own health, as we have to earn it.

He complained of blood in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and pain so intense that he couldn't eat solid food.

But two days later, Jack showed up again with worsened symptoms -- he couldn't even swallow his meds.

Tel: 713-774-5140

hat do you do when you aren't feeling well?

Will you roll back the clock in your mind and think, what did I eat? How did I sleep? Was it the draft in my office or that child coughing in line at the grocery store? If I do something now, can I prevent this feeling from developing into illness?

ARIS | AFP | 8/12/2019 - This is the story of a 72-year old retired electrician in Britain -let's call him "Jack" -- who forgot to tell his surgeon that he wore dentures.

They prescribed mouthwash and antibiotics, and sent him on his way.

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by Marlowe Hood

Noting a history of lung problems, doctors assumed he had a respiratory infection, according to BMJ Case Reports, a medical journal that describes medically noteworthy cases.

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

We can inherit name, fame, money, position, power but not Health.

And this sense of wellbeing means different things for each one of us.

In one 15-year period in Britain, 83 cases of patients 'losing' their dentures were identified, according to the BMJ Case Reports medical journal (AFP Photo/Marc Antoine Baudoux) - 'Zebra retreat' "On explaining this to the patient, he revealed that his dentures had been lost during his general surgery eight days earlier, and consisted of a metallic roof plate and three front teeth," Cunniffe said.

Bouts of bleeding brought him back to the hospital a week later, and then 10 days after that.

His fifth trip to the emergency room revealed blistering in his throat surrounded by "wound tissue", which was cauterised to prevent further bleeding.

The denture was removed surgically, and Jack was discharged six days later.

But by that time Jack needed a transfusion.

Such incidents are less rare than one might think. In one 15-year period in Britain, 83 cases of "aspirated dentures" were identified, according to the journal.

On his sixth -- and last -- slog to the hospital, the doctors discovered a torn artery and performed another round of emergency surgery.

Is this end of Jack's story? Not by a long shot.

Jack, it seems, simply forgot to tell his surgeon at the outset about his dental plate.

Ayurveda literally means “science of life”, so it’s not necessarily only about health and wellness. However, health and wellness being part of life as a top priority, discussed in great detail in this ancient science of wellness. The whole science is developed on the idea of prevention and off course there are remedies when things happen anyways.

Unfortunately, Ayurveda is perceived as “churna and bitter kadha”, “messy and oily body work”, “strict diet change and slow results” etc.

All these things are partially true; meaning they are partially not true.

What is the truth then?

This complex human system of ours has not changed in thousands of years and neither has Ayurveda. We

have had this body since man was living in caves. And yes, we have same old Earth, Sun and Moon.

Ayurvedic principles are derived from this interaction of man with his nature. This is the truth.

This human system is magnificent piece equipment that we have received and it knows how to heal itself. This healing ability is pre programmed in this body.

When we are ready to take the responsibility, Ayurveda can show us how to release that natural innate healing potential.

Are you ready?

- Houston Ayurveda Center

Stem cells and health advances: Where are we now? (Part 1 of 2)

by Kathleen Doheny

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ASADENA, California, Aug. 12, 2019 -Anna Kuehl sat in her home near Los Angeles, feeling grateful as she looked out at the ocean.

"Before, I couldn't see the ships," says the 79-year-old.

Now, [even] at night, I can see all the ships, tiny ships, even before my husband, Hans, does."

For years, Kuehl had noticed a slow loss of the vision in her left eye. Gradually, it got worse as a dark, blurry area blocked her central vision. She was diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a vision-robbing condition in which the cells of the macula, part of the retina, weaken.

Slowly, it robbed her of the ability to do everyday activities. "I did the finances in our family,'' she says, "but I couldn't do that anymore." Hiking, one of her passions, became cumbersome. Worse, there is no effective treatment for the type she has, which is known as dry macular degeneration.

Then, in October 2017, she entered an early clinical trial to test a stem cell remedy for macular degeneration. Surgeon Amir H. Kashani, MD, at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, implanted a stem cell patch -- basically an ultrathin scaffold with cells that would replace ones that had disappeared.

It worked. Kuehl sees better -- she's back to hiking, other everyday activities, and enjoying beating out her spouse on seeing the tiny ships first.

Stem Cells: 30 Years and Counting Treatments for eye diseases are considered among the most promising for stem cells, which have been under study for more than 3 decades. While proponents say all this groundwork is finally coming to fruition, others call progress slow and plodding.

"We are still far away from the hundreds of diseases that could be eradicated with stem cells," says James Wells, PhD, the chief scientific officer at the Center for Stem Cell and Organoid Medicine at Cincinnati Children's Hospital. "Most of the trials are only dealing with 'Are they safe?''' he says, referring to the first phase of clinical trials that is used only to see if a

treatment is safe, not how well it works.

infection. Treatment is crucial to avoid death.

But, he says, one type of stem cell often researched, the induced pluripotent stem cell, was only discovered in 2006.

These are adult stem cells reprogrammed to work like embryonic stem cells. Researchers also use embryonic stem cells, derived from embryos and grown in a lab, and adult stem cells from tissues and organs.

Researchers first obtain blood-forming stem cells from a patient's bone marrow, deliver a normal gene to the cell, then infuse the stem cells back into the patient. The genetically corrected system cells settle in and start producing new blood cells.

"I would say the pace of things has been much faster than I would have predicted," says Andy McMahon, PhD, a W.M. Keck provost and university professor at the University of Southern California.

In comparison, Wells says, prescription drugs often take 15 years to progress from research stages to market.

In fiscal year 2019, the NIH estimates it will fund $1.6 billion in stem cell research.

On its ''clinical dashboard" page, CIRM, California's stem cell agency, lists 56 clinical trials it has funded. CIRM, formerly the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, was launched after California voters approved Proposition 71 in 2004, providing $3 billion for stem cell research. (Some other states followed suit to fund stem cell research as administrations have gone back and forth about whether federal funding can be used to support research on human embryonic stem cells.)

Those 56 CIRM trials include stem cell research on blood and other cancers, diabetes, HIV and AIDS, and diseases of the eye, neurological system, kidney, heart, and bone. Of the 56, only six are in phase 3, the final before seeking approval. But one of those phase 3 studies has been terminated and another suspended.

On clinicaltrials.gov, a clearinghouse of clinical research studies, 7,381 studies on stem cells are listed, with 751 of those in phase 3.

The Short List Ask experts about stem cell successes, and many mention the "Bubble Boy" disease treatment, reported earlier in 2019.

The treatment is for a rare genetic defect that robs infants of an immune system and can lead to severe infection. The “Bubble Boy” name for the disease reflects how much protection these infants need to avoid an

Other treatments are not that far along, but among the areas of research cited most often are: Macular degeneration: The study that Anna Kuehl took part in was a phase 1-2 study. Four patients received the implant.

All had stable or improved vision. "What our preliminary results show is that one of the patients read up to about 17 letters more than they did at baseline on the eye chart, or about three lines more," Kashani says. Improving by three lines on an eye chart, as anyone with a vision problem knows, he says, "is huge." These findings suggest there is something happening with the placement of the new implant under the retina to support vision, he says.

Kashani is hoping to begin another phase 2 study in 2020 to evaluate patients with less advanced macular degeneration.

Kidney transplant: Patients who receive a kidney transplant must take immunosuppressive drugs to prevent organ rejection for life. The medications have risks, such as becoming toxic and increasing a patient's risk of infection, heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Now, researchers are infusing stem cells and immune cells from the organ donor into the patient who received the donor kidney.

The hope is to stop the need for the immunosuppressive drugs.

The research is now in phase 3, with an estimated enrollment of 75. Researchers want to show that the approach is safe and effective, and see if it ends the need for the immunosuppressive drugs. The study is due to be completed in January 2022.

Diabetes: Other researchers are working on using embryonic stem cell therapy to treat type 1 diabetes, which happens when the immune system destroys the beta cells in the pancreas that make insulin.

Part Two continues next week

'Nobel for food' winner tells ailing world to eat more veg

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ONDON — With poor diet now topping smoking as a health hazard, the world must put good nutrition over empty calories, especially in emerging Asian economies, according to the winner of a prestigious global prize dubbed the 'Nobel for food'.

Seed breeder Simon Groot an octogenarian whose family has cultivated seeds for hundreds of years - said the world must tackle malnutrition by boosting vegetable and crop varieties.

This was particularly pertinent in Asia, he said, as it was growing in wealth and its people were increasingly opting for starchy, high-calorie rice and meat over nutritious vegetables.

Poor diet has overtaken smoking as the world's biggest killer, according to the latest Global Burden of Disease study, causing 20 percent of deaths globally in 2017.

"As populations become more wealthy and as the standard of living goes up, particularly in the rural areas, they start eating more rice, which nutritionally is not a very good thing," said Groot, founder of Dutch East-West Seed.

"It's really happening in Myanmar now, where income is going up. And it's happened

in China where they are moving towards more meat consumption," he said.

Groot told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in a phone interview.

Its people eat an average of 155 kg of rice a year, according to a 2016 survey by the country's rice federation and Yezin Agricultural University, ensuring Myanmar has one of the world’s highest rates of rice consumption.

Groot said poor yields meant that many would struggle to make ends meet, leading to poverty and poor family diets.

Experts say if the world is to fight a growing malnutrition crisis, agriculture must shift from producing calories, through staples such as rice, to growing nutrients, such as fruits, nuts, vegetables and pulses.

It is a fight that Groot has waged for more than 40 years, having helped millions of small-scale farmers in Asia grow nutritious vegetables to improve their livelihoods.

Groot, whose work has since expanded to Latin America and Africa, on Monday won The World Food Prize, founded in 1986 to recognise those who advance the quality or availability of food.

As a sixth-generation seed breeder, Groot, 84, said he started East-West Seed at 47 years old when he noticed small-scale Asian farmers often struggled with low-quality seeds.

"For a farmer, the reliability of the seeds is so crucial,"

Millions of smallholders in Asia miss out on new, resilient seeds that could improve yields in the face of climate change, according to the Netherlandsbased Access to Seeds Foundation.

Diversification could help fight malnutrition globally by bringing little-known, nutritious foods into the mainstream, which could help to withstand hostile climates and disease, said the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Historically, farmers cultivated at least 7,000 different plants to eat. Since the 1960s, they have focused on higher yields, using fertilizers, chemicals and new irrigation methods, said Britain's Millennium Seed Bank.

Groot said his organization would keep prioritizing smallscale farmers to help them grow a diverse array of vegetables, no matter what his competitors do.

"Bigger companies will say, 'Let's just handle the 20 main vegetables and forget about the rest,'" he said. — Thomson Reuters Foundation

TRAVEL / LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 17

Muslim hajj pilgrims perform Satan stoning ritual

by Hamza Mekouar

M

INA, Saudi Arabia | AFP | Sunday 8/11/2019 - Almost 2.5 million Muslim pilgrims took part Sunday in the "stoning of the devil", the last major ritual of the annual hajj pilgrimage that in previous years led to deadly stampedes.

Tens of thousands of security forces, including police and civil defence, have been deployed for hajj, according to Saudi authorities.

Ambulances are mobilised to assist the faithful, cameras follow their movement and helicopters constantly fly over the valley of white tents that only comes alive once a year during

Cathay Pacific caught in crossfire of Hong Kong's crisis

by Elaine Yu

H

ONG KONG | AFP | Wednesday 8/14/2019 - Cathay Pacific has flown into a storm of controversy generated by the Hong Kong protests that has left it trying to appease an angry Beijing while not alienating its home market.

More than 10 weeks of sometimesviolent demonstrations have wracked the semi-autonomous city, with millions taking to the streets to demand democratic reforms and police accountability.

Over the past week the airline has emerged as a target on the mainland after some of its 27,000-strong workforce took part in, or voiced support for, the protests.

China's aviation regulator demanded that the airline prevent such staff from working on flights to the mainland or those routed through Chinese airspace.

It also ordered the carrier to hand over identity information for employees on mainland-bound flights -- declaring unapproved flights would not be allowed in.

Muslim worshippers throw pebbles as part of the symbolic al-A'qabah (stoning of the devil ritual) at the Jamarat Bridge during the Hajj pilgrimage in Mina, near Saudi Arabia's holy city of Mecca on August 11, 2019. (Photo: Fethi Belaid / AFP) Carrying pebbles in the scorching heat, worshippers made their way across Mina Valley near Mecca in western Saudi Arabia to symbolically "humiliate" the devil.

the hajj.

Under the watchful eyes of security forces, waves of pilgrims clad in white threw seven stones each at a pillar symbolising Satan.

Saudi Arabia's King Salman made the trip to Mina on Saturday and was seen on state-run television observing worshippers from the window of a high-rise.

"It is hot, I drink a lot of water and I am still hidden under my umbrella," said Jaker Akjar, a 48-year-old Indian pilgrim, sporting a henna-dyed beard.

This was Akjar's first hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam that every Muslim is required to complete at least once in their lifetime if they are healthy enough and have the means to do so.

Muslim tradition holds that pilgrims must throw seven stones each at a pillar representing Satan on the first day of Eid al-Adha, following two days of prayer and meditation.

"I am well equipped and ready" to fight the devil, said Umar, a 33-yearold Saudi engineer, carrying pebbles in a plastic bottle.

- Tight security The hajj, one of the world's largest religious gatherings, this year officially drew 2.49 million pilgrims to Islam's holiest sites in Saudi Arabia.

The stoning ritual is not without risk, as millions of pilgrims converge on a tight space and the pebbles often miss their mark amid the screams of worshippers.

Mina has been the site of deadly stampedes such as in 2015 when more than 2,300 pilgrims were crushed, trampled or suffocated to death.

Authorities have since reinforced safety and security measures.

Large fans sprayed water over the crowd amid soaring temperatures.

- Festival of sacrifice -

The monarch on Sunday held talks in Mina with Yemeni President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi, state media said.

Yemen's southern separatists on Saturday seized the presidential palace in the second city Aden, a move decried by Hadi's government as a UAEbacked coup.

"We pray to Allah almighty to... accept their pilgrimage and worship," King Salman tweeted on Sunday, which marked the beginning of Eid alAdha, the festival of sacrifice.

Muslims traditionally slaughter sheep for the three-day holiday in tribute to the Prophet Abraham's sacrifice of a lamb after God at the last moment spared Ishmael, his son.

They consume some of the meat and give the rest to poor people unable to buy food.

Pilgrims can purchase coupons from the Saudi government, which organises the slaughter and freezing of the meat to avoid public health problems.

After the stoning ritual, pilgrims return to the Grand Mosque in Mecca to perform a final "tawaf" or circling of the Kaaba.

The Kaaba is a cube structure that is the focal point of Islam and draped in a gold-embroidered black cloth.

Executives scrambled to reassure authorities that the company has no truck with the demonstrators, vowing to sack any employee who takes part in an "illegal protest".

Cathay said on Wednesday two pilots had been fired, noting: "One is currently involved in legal proceedings. The other misused company information."

It said last week it had fired two ground staff, without specifying why.

Local media reported that they were accused of leaking the travel details of a Hong Kong police football team that was travelling to the mainland.

by Andrea Romano

A

ccording to USA Today, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has banned certain recalled MacBook Pro models due to potentially dangerous battery packs.

Certain older generation, 15-inch MacBook Pros are no longer allowed on flights in either carry-on or checked bags. The issue stems from older battery packs which can overheat – leading to smoke, fire, or other dangers that might occur while flying.

That move was not enough to avoid the crosshairs of China's staunchly nationalist Global Times tabloid and the People's Daily -- the Communist Party's mouthpiece.

Beijing.

Cathay's "sins", the papers said, were that it had not done enough to investigate or condemn staff who took part in protests.

He said a fifth of the company's flights are to, or from, the mainland while Chinese passengers make up some 80 percent of passengers on flights to other markets.

Fired up by the thunderous state media articles, China's heavily censored social media platforms lit up with indignation from people vowing never to fly Cathay again.

On China's Twitter-like Weibo platform, the hashtag #boycottcathaypacificairline had racked up nearly 45 million views by Wednesday.

"Blacklist this airline from now on," wrote one user.

- 'Cathay Pathetic' A protester blockade of the airport this week deepened the airline's woes, forcing it to cancel 272 flights, and affecting the travel plans of 55,000 people, it said.

Analysts said Cathay is acutely vulnerable to any potential censure from

called the particular models sold between September 2015 and February 2017 back in June, according to USA Today. Apple users with newer or differently sized MacBook Pros or other models can still fly with these devices according to standard TSA rules.

It’s not just laptops that use lithium batteries, but also mobile phones, smart luggage, hearing aids, toys, digital cameras, and other devices, according to TechWalla.

The ban is in accordance with the FAA’s PackSafe page, on which it states that “if a product that is dangerous goods or that contains a dangerous goods component (e.g., battery) is subject to a safety recall related to the dangerous goods, it must not be carried aboard an aircraft or in baggage unless the recalled product/component has been replaced or repaired or otherwise made safe per manufacturer/ vendor instructions.”

Most laptops operate using a lithium battery, which must always be taken in carry-on luggage. All lithium batteries are prohibited from checked bags, according to the TSA website.

Banning unsafe batteries is actually quite routine for the FAA. A similar ban was in place over the Samsung Galaxy Note 7, which had a serious fire risk due to overheating.

Not all 15-inch MacBook Pros have been affected by the ban. Apple re-

But unlike the phone, affected lap-

N

arrowing down your beauty essentials to meet TSA guidelines might be annoying, but it’s not as bad as this: when your toothbrush roams free in your toiletry bag, with the bristles exposed to all those germs and bacteria. Just thinking about it makes me cringe.

While this quirk of mine might have been instilled by my mom — who’s been a flight attendant for 36 years and therefore ultra-aware of germ hotspots — since birth, I was determined not to let it stop me. I wanted to find something that would actually keep my toothbrush clean.

Of course there are plenty of standard toothbrush caps you could buy to easily solve this problem, but I found something even better. Steripods, which my mom actually introduced me to, sanitize your toothbrush head while it’s in the case.

And if you’re ever skeptical that it’s truly working, you can smell the vapors inside the pod — they have a clean and refreshing scent to them.

AFP Photo/Vivek Prakash

"They are so heavily reliant on the mainland Chinese market," noted Brendan Sobie, chief analyst for the Centre for Aviation.

The pressure sent Cathay's shares into a nosedive, losing nearly five percent at the start of the week.

The company has swung into damage limitation mode.

Swire Pacific -- a Hong Kong-based conglomerate and Cathay's largest shareholder -- released a statement saying it "strongly supports" the Hong Kong government and "(shares) the vision of the Chinese Central government".

"We resolutely support the Hong Kong SAR Government, the Chief Executive and the Police in their efforts to restore law and order," the company said, adding that it would comply with any regulations Beijing placed on it.

Some MacBook Pro users may not be able to fly with their laptops, FAA warns

The $2 trick to keeping your toothbrush germ-free while traveling

Within the Steripod you’ll see a little patch of white, which is the sanitizing component of the pod. It’s made up of natural plant thymol vapors that are extracted from thyme plants and are known for their antiseptic properties, which helps keep your brush’s bristles clean and sanitized. Plus, the pod is designed so that air can still circulate freely, so you don’t have to worry about drying out your toothbrush before placing it back in. Simply clip on the Steripod, which fits any standard or electric toothbrushes, and it will help keep your toothbrush germ-free for up to three months.

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

With more than 700 five-star reviews on Amazon, shoppers like me can attest that the Steripod is one of the most effective methods for keeping your toothbrush clean while on the go. And when you shop Steripods on Amazon in bulk, you’ll be getting each one for essentially only $2, making it a cheap travel hack I can’t stop telling everyone about. Shop Steripods below, and be prepared to never travel without one again.

To buy: Available on amazon.com, $18 for 8

tops may be more difficult to spot, since the ban doesn’t cover all 15inch Macbook Pros, according to The Verge. As an Apple user can attest, these laptops are pretty much identical and hard to differentiate. It’s unclear what steps will be taken at the security line to enforce the ban.

Apple is in the midst of replacing batteries for affected models. All MacBook Pros that are eligible for a replacement can be determined by the product’s serial number. If you are unsure if your laptop battery is recalled, you can check your machine’s serial number on the Apple website. From the looks of it, Apple users may be the first line of defense to make sure their device is safe.

All users with affected MacBook Pros can get their batteries replaced at no cost by visiting a certified Apple Service Provider, an Apple retail store, or by using the mail-in service.

- Travel+Leisure

SMALL BUSINESSES

VOICE OF ASIA 18

B

D

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ACCOUNTANTS BOOK-KEEPING

FRIDAY, August 16, 2019

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Personal and Business Tax Returns, Payroll Sales Tax, Income Tax Audits and Representations.

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The longer you wait the more you lose on the opportunity

21 March to 20 April You could be feeling a bit stressed now. People who are louder, more demanding, or especially critical can leave you feeling off balance.

Do your best without expectation of reward.

When others around you seem to be losing their heads, you can keep yours.

21 April to 20 May Right now, you’re likely to be the glue in your own life. Maybe you’re the hub of your social or working group, but you’re the one everyone’s looking to now to find new ideas and activities that can help everyone out financially. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t.

21 May to 20 June Financial issues could bring some stress your way. That coupled with the current aspects could mean that you use up more of your energy reserves than usual. Thankfully, you have the stamina to face any challenge and handle any crisis.

21 June to 22 July Financial issues could bring some stress your way. That coupled with the current aspects could mean that you use up more of your energy reserves than usual. Thankfully, you have the stamina to face any challenge and handle any crisis.

23 July to 22 August You’re attracted to unusual people and romantic situations while the moon passes through eccentric Aquarius midweek. Just because you’ve never considered something before doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. A Mercury-Uranus square occurs later in the week, bringing some unexpected news or feelings.

23 August to 22 Sept You’re likely to be feeling very creative and energetic now. This is the time to take action that shows off your creative ideas and interests. Staff meetings and team efforts will be areas where you can shine. Finish what you start.

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STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: MIND YOUR GRAMMAR

23 September to 22 Oct You would probably prefer not to have to worry about money, especially this week. But since it’s a necessary part of life, you prefer to worry about broader things - that which you can’t control. Your money life is more ideas than reality.

23 October to 21 Nov This isn’t one of your more relaxed times. It could be filled with inopportune challenges or issues. The cosmos can skew your perspective, too. As far as your health is concerned, pace yourself. Keep up your workouts, but don’t overdo it, especially if you feel too tired.

22 November to 21 Dec There’s the potential for a fiery clash of wills with someone who is as stubborn as you.

There could be a misunderstanding or outright deception.

Be sure what you expect is what is actually happening.

22 December to 20 Jan Any health issues that may have been problems seem to be easing off now, but that doesn’t mean you can let down your guard.

Just because you don’t notice a symptom doesn’t mean you can go back to doing things the old way.

21 January to 19 Feb An optimistic sun-Venus conjunction in the first part of the week makes dating fun. It highlights all the good parts of being single and makes you forget about the negative ones. You look at love idealistically at the end of the week, which is in sharp contrast to your usual romantic view.

20 February to 20 Mar This is a wonderful time for networking and making helpful contacts. People from other countries or with additional education can be your best allies. Teamwork will be necessary in order to do the best job. There is such as thing as a healthy difference of opinion.

ACROSS 1. Red ____ 6. Trigonometric func.

9. Presidential "No!" 13. From this time 14. "General Hospital" network 15. Earth, to Virgil 16. Related to #12 Down 17. Junior's junior 18. Lingo 19. *Noun alternative 21. *Conjunctions 23. Bit of work 24. Sty cry 25. Pendulum's path 28. Liberal pursuits 30. Romani camp formations 35. Not in Impossible Burger 37. Letter before kappa 39. First light of day 40. Without purpose 41. *Ideas separator 43. Part of colliery 44. Gourd musical instrument 46. Flees 47. Flat-bottomed boat 48. *Controversial comma 50. Its motto is "Leadership Excellence" 52. Lt.'s subordinate 53. Barnes & Noble reader 55. Hermey the dentist, e.g.

57. *Person or thing 61. Tactile reading system 65. Earlier in time 66. Color quality 68. Lusitania destroyer 69. Askew, in Scotland 70. *Suffix used when comparing three or more 71. Kick in 72. Rod attachment 73. Pep rally syllable 74. Author Jong

DOWN 1. Bruce Lee blow 2. Infantry's last rows 3. Knowing about 4. Part of a play 5. Mrs, in Spain 6. Jealous biblical brother 7. Kimono tie 8. "The Terminator" genre 9. *Simple predicate 10. Therefore 11. Helen of ____ 12. Mares eat it 15. Tibetan religious paintings 20. Finno-____ language 22. *Suffix often confused with -ent 24. Former East Germany currency 25. Friend, south of the border 26. Updike's "Rabbit ____" 27. Shorter than California 29. Saw or awl 31. Beach do-nothings 32. In the cooler 33. *Like sentence without proper punctuation 34. Gushes 36. Pro's opposite 38. BB's and bullets 42. Daisy-like bloom 45. Crotchety 49. Word processing product, for short 51. *Smallest grammatical unit 54. Not the same one 56. Dietary essential 57. Ring practice 58. Encourage 59. Digestive aid 60. "Piano Man" singer 61. Eliza follower 62. "Laughing on the inside" in text 63. Flock member 64. Highest volcano in Europe 67. Bruce Springsteen's "Born in the ____"

SOLUTION: MIND YOUR GRAMMAR, Page 19

VOICE OF ASIA 19

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Home&Real Estate Houston is nation's top 'buy' market for multifamily real estate, report says

H

ouston is the nation’s top “buy” market for multifamily real estate, according to a new report released by Ten-X Commercial.

Ten-X Commercial, a commercial real estate sales platform based in Irvine, California, found that Houston’s projected rental unit rate increased and falling vacancy rates beat all other markets studied.

By 2022, Houston is projected to see apartment rents increase by 15.9 percent, while vacancies are expected to decline by 150 basis points to 4.3 percent.

The average effective apartment rent in Houston is expected to reach $1,183 by 2022, the report said.

Houston’s anticipated rent increases were 4.4 percent higher than what was projected for Las Vegas, the No. 2 “buy” market in the United States, according to the report. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; Atlanta; and Salt Lake City rounded out the rest of the report’s top five “buy markets.”

The report noted that the Southwest region leads the nation in apartment buying activity, with Texas being the “clear standout.”

The report attributed Houston’s strong multifamily real estate market to the city’s resurgent energy sector, which Ten-X Commercial said has aided the local economy and boosted apartment rents.

“Millennials are a large reason why the current rental market is thriving,” said Ten-X Chief Economist Peter Muoio. “Though we expect homeownership in this important age group to increase over the long term, so far they remain focused on renting.”

The report's projected uptick in the

multifamily real estate market falls in line with similar projections made by local multifamily experts.

While rental rates in Houston have remained flat in recent years, many Houston-based brokers have been optimistic about what the near future might hold. Last month, Clint Duncan, senior vice president of CBRE’s (NYSE: CBRE) capital markets multifamily group in Houston, said Houston’s strong job market and growing population are helping to fuel demand for apartments.

On the other end of the scale, Ten-X Commercial’s report named San Jose, California, the nation’s top “sell” market. San Jose’s average effective rent is expected to decline 1.9 percent to $2,521 by 2022. Meanwhile, the city’s vacancy rate is expected to increase by 240 basis points to 6.8 percent.

A surprising London townhouse filled with intriguing geometry asks $2.4M This late-’80s home by Sean Madigan and Stephen Donald features a facade of recycled bricks and a hollowed-out concrete pillar at the core.

by Kathyrn M.

L

ONDON - Take a walk along Murray Mews, a cobblestone side street in London, and you might be surprised to find rows of modern homes. Located just off Camden Square, this neighborhood block strikes a stark contrast with the colorful townhomes of Notting Hill.

Halfway down the lane stands number 12—distinctive for its geometric design and the way it blends sleek metals with handsome brickwork.

Built in 1988, this 2,100-square-foot home is clad in reclaimed stock bricks, giving it a timeworn look typical of

Murray Mews is known for homes by well-known architects. It features early works from Team 4, the ’60s-era firm of Richard Rogers and Norman Foster.

Like other San Francisco-area cities, San Jose’s multifamily real estate market has struggled amid a volatile tech market and an excess in available units.

London neighborhoods. The renovated residence offers four bedrooms and two bathrooms, as well as several large living areas—including one with a full-width bay window.

Other top “sell” markets include Oakland, California; Miami; San Francisco; and Milwaukee.

The symmetrically stacked facade is centered around the main entrance, which appears to leads upward to a full-width dormer clad in inky metal.

Yet, such forms are only made clear upon stepping inside the home.

Overall, the report attributed the nation's strong multifamily market to a decline in the number of new rental properties coming to market, which helped to keep vacancy rates flat. The report also found that homeownership has plateaued at 64.3 percent.

“With mortgage rates and home prices still elevated, homeownership remains unattainable for many Americans,” the report said. “This allows for the rental market to remain largely unthreatened and strong, despite the slight uptick in homeownership.”

- HBJ

Houston House Flippers get HGTV show

The Royal Institute of British Architects once hailed the home as an early example of the luxury London mews home. Today the Camden Square Conservation Area is working to preserve the neighborhood's character.

The entrance opens into a large dining area. Frosted glass pocket doors can separate this space from the living room. French doors open to a private oasis.

The curvaceous rear facade contrasts with the home's linear, symmetrical front.

Beech wood floors continue up the spiral staircase. A hollowed-out concrete column rises through the home's three levels, adding a sculptural point of interest to each story.

The top level offers a playroom and a secondary family room. It also contains what is perhaps the home's most unexpected feature—a pyramidal window extruding from a central dormer.

12 Murray Mews is currently listed for £1,999,000 (approximately $2,430,000) by The Modern House.

- Dwell.com

Want to boost your home's curb appeal before putting it up for sale? Follow these rules

by Andria Cheng

M

ichael Lam, a real estate agent from Queens, New York, says the $200 to $300 he spent on garden mulch and plants was part of the secret sauce that helped him sell his house in just one week in 2017.

“That kind of freshened up the place,” Lam said. “Curb appeal is very important, especially when you sell.

That’s the first thing people see."

Going for Sold, Featuring Houston House Flippers, to Debut on HGTV.

A

new show called Going for Sold will premiere on August 1 on HGTV, starring Houston home-flipping couple Jon Pierre and Mary Tjon-Joe-Pin. Each of the seven episodes this season will showcase the couple renovating a home in a range of Houston neighborhoods, such as

Champions or Third Ward. HGTV’s newest stars have been flipping house since 2011, and were discovered when a television show developer at Red Arrow Industries came across an online video of one of the duo’s projects.

- Architectural Digest

Real estate investor agrees to buy Outlaws for $40 million

H

ouston real estate investor Lee Zieben has agreed to terms with Immortals Gaming Club to purchase the Houston Outlaws for a total deal value of $40 million, sources familiar with the deal told ESPN. The deal has not been executed but is expected to close in late August, with Zieben currently having a binding letter of intent with Immortals for the purchase, according to sources.

Paperwork submission to and approval of the Overwatch League is pending, league sources said.

If completed as expected, Zieben will pay $30 million in cash and securities and assume the $10 million debt in remaining payments to the Overwatch League for the Houston Outlaws franchise slot, sources said.

Immortals declined to comment. Lee Zieben's office and the Overwatch League did not respond to a request for comment.

Immortals will sell the team after

they acquired Infinite Esports & Entertainment, the parent of OpTic Gaming and the Outlaws, in June.

Immortals will retain their ownership of OpTic, splitting that team and the Outlaws for the first time. In June, Immortals completed a deal with Activision Blizzard to enter the franchised Call of Duty League that is set to launch in 2020.

The deal for Infinite saw Immortals guarantee payments of $35 million to $45 million worth of cash and equity share to Texas Esports -- backed by Texas Rangers owners Neil Leibman and Ray Davis and Houston Astros minority owner John Havens -- and Aurelius Esports, led by former Infinite president Chris Chaney. Immortals also assumed debts Infinite owed, including the Outlaws' Overwatch League payments and OpTic's remaining franchise fees to the League of Legends Championship Series, totaling the deal to an enterprise value of over $100 million.

"You can pick up a couple of bags of mulch and do it yourself with a shovel.

Put a nice mailbox and a nice sign for your door ...These are inexpensive things people can do.”

Along with those steps, he offers some basic sprucing up tips to clients putting their homes on the market.

“Power wash your driveway and walkway and your vinyl siding or brick siding,” he said. “It will give the house a nice pop.”

Here are other low-cost ways to give your house a nice facial: Clean, trim and fix the little things: Just as cleaning, decluttering and replacing broken bulbs are musts when you stage your home for sale, so are pulling up weeds, mowing the lawn and trimming trees and bushes.

“When grass is growing out of the gutter, it’s time to clean the gutter,” said Joe Hayden, a real estate agent in Louisville, Kentucky, adding that sellers should also fix chipped paint, detached shutters, or holes created by woodpeckers.

Another rule: Trim or grow plants some distance from the house because they could cause termite and other damage if grown against it, he said.

Trim or grow plants some distance from the house because they could cause termite and other damage if grown against it “It’s the main welcoming point to the house,” Hayden said. “It’s one of the easiest and cheapest things to do.”

to $5.50 at the low end. “Even if you have an old flower pot that looks beat up, spray-paint it so it looks new.”

The cost of painting a 3-foot-by-7foot door is less than $50 if homeowners do it themselves. With hired labor, it costs up to $300, he said.

Pop of color: Placing potted plants at each entry point – the front stoop, walkway and next to garage doors – also helps curb appeal, Hayden said.

Don’t want to bother with that? Try updating doormats and add a wreath for every season, Lowe’s Harmon said.

“A little splash of color can go a long way to create a positive feeling,” he said. “You want those points of contact where you are going to be on foot and right next to it.”

Magic of spray paint: Don’t have the budget to replace those tired-looking locksets, which can cost hundreds, or mailboxes and door signs? Here’s a simple trick.

“Spray paint can go a long way” for inside and outside the house, said Candace Hutchison, a professional stager.

A can of spray paint costs about $3.50

It’s also a good idea to get plants that correspond to each season, like poinsettias for Christmas, he said.

Also try placing three different planter sizes by the door. “It makes more of a statement,” Lowe’s Harmon said.

- USA Today

Don’t know what else might be off?

Put a little distance between yourself and your house, by foot or even by car “and see if there’s something that jumps out at you and ask yourself, ‘Does this thing look in harmony?

Does the color match?’ That holistic view is very important,” Hayden advised.

Front door: Giving the front door a new paint and color is another easy way to enhance curb appeal, said Caroline Harmon, trends and style analyst for retailer Lowe’s. Popular colors currently include turquoise blue and a glossy black that’s “classic and makes a statement,” she said.

Placing potted plants at each entry point – the front stoop, walkway and next to garage doors – also helps curb appeal,