VOICE OF ASIA 1
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FRIDAY, April 18, 2014 Do You Qualify For Special Election Period Under Obama Care? Read on Page 20 Or Call 713-771-2900.
Vol. 27 No. 16 Friday, April 18, 2014 Published Weekly from Houston 713-774-5140 28 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
IDC hosts 33rd. Annual gala, TiE Mentored Company donates to ID Charity Clinic Wins $1 million at Rice and Medical Students Business Plan Competition
Uttam Tripathy, MD, President, Indian Doctors Association (left) presented a check to Dr. KT Shah of Indian Doctors Charity Clinic at the IDA gala. by Shobana Muratee HOUSTON - An impressive gathering of Houston’s very best physicians was witnessed at the Indian Doctors Association’s (IDA), 33rd Annual Gala held on Saturday, April 12, 2014 at the Westin Oaks Galleria here in Houston. Guest of Honor Dr. Elizabeth Torres, President HCMS applauded the IDA for its overwhelming strength of 100,000 members. She was introduced by Dr. Subodh Buchar, Master of Ceremonies. Addressing the gathering of over 700 guests, Dr. Torres said, “At the Harris County Medical Society we certainly understand the diver-
BCM student receives scholarship certificate from Dr. Kalpalatha Guntapally and Dr. Uttam Tripathy at the IDA gala Continued on Page 8
BetaGlide team the winners $1 million with TiE Houston President Aruna Viswanathan (far rt.).
B
etaGlide, a mobile tools startup from IIT Kharagpur and a winner of TiE International Business Plan Competition (TIBPC), won $1 million at the Rice Business Plan Competition in Houston on April 12, 2014. BetaGlide was the recipient of the Mercury Fund Technology Transfer Investment prize at RBPC. This was the culmination of an amazing journey for BetaGlide that began from the IIT Kharagpur incubator TLabs, won the business plan competition at TiE Kolkata earlier this year, and as a result competed in the Asia final of the TIPBC at TiE Delhi; won the student track of Asia finals and thus becoming TiE Glob-
Dashavatar – A Magnificent Presentation From Samksriti
T
he excitement in the Wortham Center was palpable. The audience was in for an extraordinary experience that far surpassed their expectations. The curtain opened upon a stunningly beautiful silhouette of Vishnu, with the voice of the narrator (Rathna Kumar) explaining the reason for the avatars. It was continuous and seamless story-telling, through dance and drama, of the Ten Avatars of Vishnu, presented in a short one and half hours, with each story acted out by various characters and linked to the next by three groups of dancers who were the Sutradharis (Chorus), summing up the Continued on Page 5
Dr. Rathna Kumar (center right) with artists of Dashavtar at the Wortham Center, Houston. Photo credit: Navin Mediwala.
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The Charter member community of TiE Global and TiE Houston is proud to have played a part in setting this young startup on a path to success.”, said Ashok Rao, Chairman of TiE Global, who also happens to be a Trustee of the Jones School of Business at Rice University. Ashok Rao was the force behind the creation of the TiE International Business Plan Competition and the partnership with the RBPC. This is the third year of the partnership between RBPC and TiE Global and teams from India have shown steady improvement each year. “We are delighted to partner with TiE. TiE brings a lot of value to the RBPC by bringing the best of Asia and Europe to Rice for the world’s richest student business plan competition”, said Brad Burke, Managing Director of the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship. “Success has a thousand parents. There are so many in TiE who contribute to the success of the contestants at the TIBPC and beyond. Beta-
BetaGlide is an issue analytics and user management platform for mobile app developers that helps create better and more efficient apps. (http://www.betaglide. com). Mercury Fund Technology Transfer Investment Prize encourages the commercialization of university technologies. (http://www.mercuryfund.com) TiE is a global network of successful entrepreneurs with presence in 61 cities in 18 countries that focuses on startup success through mentoring, education, networking, incubation, and funding. TiE Kolkata, TiE Delhi and TiE Houston contributed to the success of BetaGlide. (http://www.tie.org). Rice Business Plan Competition is the world’s richest and largest graduate-level student startup competition, hosted and organized by the Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship, which is Rice University’s flagship initiative devoted to the support of entrepreneurship. (http://alliance.rice.edu/rbpc.aspx )
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Historically, teams from India placed near the bottom at the RPBC, the world’s richest and most competitive student business plan competition. A total of 42 graduate student based teams, carefully selected from a large number of entries from across the world, compete for over $1.6 million in prizes. “It was a dream come true for me to see a team from India win the largest award in the history of the RBPC.
Glide’s achievement is truly the acknowledgement of our strength as a global community focused on giving back”, according to PK Agarwal, CEO, TiE Global. “We are grateful for all the mentoring and coaching from the Charter members of TiE Houston, TiE Kolkata and TiE Delhi without which this would not have been possible”, said Amritanshu Anand and Anshul Singhle, the co-founders of BetaGlide.
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VOICE OF ASIA 3
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Second Front Page
Friday, April 18, 2014
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
Tel: 713-774-5140
Purpose of Human Life and Human Values this world. So what is the difference between a spider and a man? He said the biggest difference is that man can realize his creator, God. All our scriptures have talked about God as an entity which is indestructible, omnipresent, omnipotent or Almighty. In the program the topic of discussion was “Purpose of Human Life and Human values”. This was twohour session that began at 5:30 PM. Spiritual speeches and songs were part of this program. The young children sang the song “You are one I can count on…. I believe in you”.
Rev Arun Ahluwalia Ji addressing the gathering. by Raj K. Bhala, In charge, SNM Branch Houston, TX
the General Secretary of SNM, USA during his Houston visit. Quoting extensively from scriptures he said, “ Gurur Brahma, Gurur Vishnu, Gurur Devo Maheshwarah, Gurur Saakshaat para- Brahma, Tasmai Shri Guruve Nahah.” In short this means that “a True Master himself is the Supreme God”. He also quoted from Shri Bhagvad Geeta and said God is an entity
H
OUSTON (12th April, 2014) - The purpose of human life is self-realization through God realization. Just like to learn everything else in our lives, we need a teacher, the same way we need a spiritual mater to realize God. Above thoughts were expressed by Rev. Arun Ahluwalia Ji who is
that is described as- “nainam chindanti sastrani , nainam dahati pavakah , na chainam kledayanty apo , na sosayati marutah” Rev Arun Ahluwalia Ji in his discourse further said that a spider builds a web around him and ultimately dies in it. Similarly man works for his own family and children all his life and ultimately leaves
A section of the gathering at the India House on Saturday, 12th April, 2014.
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Invited speaker Mr. Shahid Ahmed from Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in his speech explained the origin of Ahmadiyya community in India and said the true purpose of human life is to know God through worship and through devotion. He also said the highest capacity of a man is to be one with God. Another invited speaker Rev. Bob, who represented Family Federation of World Peace, read some part of earlier speech of Father Moon’s message to America. Rev. Parveen Ahluwalia Ji, wife of Rev Arun Ji, said we keep changing our targets as we grow from our childhood to youth and to our elderly age
but moving targets cannot be purpose of our lives. She gave an example of Swami Vivekanand, a great Hindu scholar, when he was coming to USA by ship asked a fellow passenger as why he is going to USA. The young man replied he is going there for higher education. Swami Ji asked him again what you will do after that. The young man said he will find a good job and then get married. Swami Ji kept asking him what he will do then. After answering these repeated questions, the young man said eventually he will die. Swami Ji said you are doing all this hard work just to die. He explained to young man that there is greater purpose of human life and that is to realize God in our life time and be one with Him. There were two programs on Saturday, April 11, 2014. The first program was on “Stress Management and Youth Development in the presence of Rev. Arun Ahluwalia Ji”. In this hour long program that began at 4:00 PM, an audience of about 60 people including young college and high school students participated. The audience was asked to explain the causes of stress in their lives and how do they handle it. Some students and adults
came forward and expressed their opinion. In the gist, Rev Arun Ahluwalia Ji said stress begins at a very early age in human life. If you take away a toy from a child he will start crying as he is stressed about not having it anymore. Stress is normal reaction of our body in response to things that do not go our way. Stress can be managed if we exercise, care others, share things with one other, manage time well, and most importantly to have that feeling of letting it go when things don’t go our way. He said we will understand the guiding principal of “letting it go” if we understand the purpose of our lives. With the realization of God, the fear of unknown or self doubt goes away. God realization builds our faith that God will take care of all our needs and it lifts all our stress. This meeting was coordinated by sister Sheela Keswani Ji, member SNM, who always work tirelessly to bring about a change in young people’s day to day life. Rev. Raj Bhala Ji, who is the in-charge of Houston Branch of SNM, in his address welcomed Rev Arun Ahluwalia Ji and all the attendees. He thanked the speakers and listeners for their participation in the program.
VOICE OF ASIA 4
COMMUNITY/LEGAL
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Changes To Texas Child Support Guidelines And What It May Mean For You? By Yasmin Kutty, A divorce attorney in Sugar Land, Texas www.kuttylawfirm.com
Yasmin Kutty Since September 1, 2013, there is an increase to the cap for calculating child support in Texas. The prior cap for monthly net resources was $7500.00. It is now $8,550.00 pursuant to Section 154.125 of the Texas Family Code. This is a significant change that has been needed in light of tough economic times, inflation and job instability. The change can potentially assist thousands of children whose needs are dependent on child support payments from noncustodial parents. In order to benefit from the upcoming change, a custodial
parent would need to file for a modification of child support, if there case is ripe for a modification. Your local Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Division office can review your case if you have an open case with them. Otherwise, you may consult a family law attorney to see if the change will affect the current child support amount you currently receive. A modification may not be warranted if the non-custodial parent’s net monthly income is not greater than the preexisting $7500.00 a month. If you are in a situation where you are too afraid of filing for divorce but you are separated
and are not receiving any financial assistance from your spouse or the parent of your children, please consider going to your local Texas Attorney General’s Child Support Office and file for child support. It is free, and the financial assistance can help you get back on your feet. Disclaimer: All data and information provided is for informational purposes only. www.kuttylawfirm.com makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of information on this site. The information should not be construed as legal advice.
Read more articles on legal issues at: www.VoiceofAsiaOnline.com
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VOICE OF ASIA 6
COMMUNITY
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Sam Kannappan presents “Ethics” seminar at ASIE by Dinesh Shah
A
SIE, American Society of Indian Engineers (ASIE) is open to Engineers of all disciplines, Architects, and all Engineering Technicians. For their yearly license renewal, the continuing education credit hours are required. In addition to many benefits to the members, ASIE organizes monthly seminars, for them to earn these credit hours and learn various technical topics including an hour of Left: Sam Kannappan, a speaker for the Ethics Seminar, receiving a plaque of appreciation from Ramesh Gunda, President of Gunda Corporation and a current Corporate Member of ASIE (on the right), accompanied by Sekhar Ambadapudi, the current President of ASIE.
Professional Practice Update and Ethics credit is compulsory for all technical branches. For the month of March, the Ethics seminar was organized by ASIE at the Mayuri Restaurant, which was presented by Mr. Sockalingam “Sam” Kannappan. The delicious dinner and interesting seminar of Professional Practice Update and Ethics was well attended by more than fifty professionals from all technical disciplines. Mr. Kannappan is a Professional Licensed Engineer. He received his B.E. with Honors in Mechanical Engineering from Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas, Austin. He is the author of the text
book on “Introduction to Pipe Stress Analysis” and developer of Piping Analysis software “EZFLEX”. He works as a Senior Design Engineer with SNC-Lavalin Hydrocarbons & Chemicals, Houston. He is an appointed Board Member by Governor Perry for Texas Board of Professional Engineer. He is a Board Member of the Society of Piping Engineers & Designers and Advisory Board Member, Asia Society, Texas Center. He served as member of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers Gas Pipeline Safety Research Committee, Defend Houston against Bioterrorism. He has also served on the Texas On-Site Wastewater Treatment Research Council from 2006 to 2011.
The goal for the inception of ASIE by senior members was to build the future for young engineers. Today, AISE has many young engineers and students, and the organization is being run by them efficiently under the continuous guidance of senior engineers. This year ASIE will be celebrating 20th anniversary and grand event planning is underway. For the upcoming event, this month a Professional and Informative Field Trip is scheduled to Sugar Land Water Treatment Plant, and “City of Houston’s Infrastructure Challenges” seminar will be presented by Mr. Daniel W. Krueger, P.E., Director of Public Works at City of Houston for the month of May at Hess Club.
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FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
COMMUNITY
VOICE OF ASIA 8
USIPI Succeeds in Engaging Indians in Houston for Inclusive Development Policies for Minorities
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
IDC hosts 33rd. Annual gala, ....
Dr. Uttam Tripathy with Dr. Elizabeth Torres, President HCMS Continued from Page 1 sity of organization and that’s what’s makes us strong,” she said. “The unity between Indian Doctors Association and Harris County Medical Society I think, it’s a great coming together of association and collaboration” she said and urged more members to join the HCMS. “The HCMS is the largest county medical society in the nation, with more than 11,000 physician and medical student members and represents 25% of the TMA,” she added.
A section of the guests who attended the USIPI presentation on April 5, 2014
H
OUSTON - US India Policy Institute (USIPI) dinner presentation on “Inclusive Development Strategies for Minorities - In the Decade Ahead” in Houston, Texas on April 5, 2014 was a success. With over 100 attendees attentively sitting in Mezban Banquet Hall, USIPI is moving forward in garnering a strong support system of Indian Americans working to make a difference in India. This is a crucial time in India as the 2014 election to choose the nation’s next leader draws near. Within the next few weeks, India will face new changes. And as conscious Indians residing in the United States, USIPI members believe that any change in India should be for the better. And with every change, Indian minorities should get a chance to move forward towards better educational, employment and social success. Dr. Maqbool Haq, an Oncologist and the Chairman of Indian Muslim Association of Greater Houston began the event by remarking, “As we speak, India is changing. We want to ensure that the development of minorities remain a priority.” The Houston gathering discussed the developmental priorities for Indian government in the next decade, and the role Indian Americans must play towards promoting these progressive policies for minorities. Rasheed Ahmed, President of US India Policy Institute introduced the organization’s mission and emphasized that an active participation from the community is imperative for community development and nation building. Development can occur with research, and evidence based research and policy development requires institutions like policy institute and think tanks. Ahmed stated, “The role of the policy institute (USIPI) is independent of which party or ideology is the power in
USIPI’s Chief Scholar, Dr. AbuSaleh Shariff delivering his keynote address. any country including India.” The keynote presentation was by USIPI’s Chief Scholar, Dr. AbuSaleh Shariff. Dr. Shariff was the well known Chief Economist for The National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER). He also served as an Advisor to the India Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and was the Member Secretary in the Sachar Committee. The Sachar Committee was a team of experts brought together by Dr. Manmohan Singh to create a report on Muslim community in India and their educational, employment and social status. The Sachar Committee Report brought to light India’s largest minority’s struggles and lack of progress. Explaining his work, Dr. Shariff said, “As a Human Development Expert, my research and field work provided me a unique understanding of the conditions of all communities and backgrounds in India.
I noticed over the decades that although other poor and marginalized were benefiting from Government policy and programs, but Muslims were falling behind all other communities. My involvement with the Sachar Committee Report provided me an opportunity to comprehensively study and establish this pattern. It is now generally accepted in policy circles that Muslims live in the poor and poorest households in some of the least developed areas in India. The findings of Sachar Committee and the subsequent research greatly help in me proposing policy recommendations that are most efficient and effective in narrowing the gaps between communities.” As the event concluded, USIPI’s General Secretary Attaulla Khan remarked, “We are thankful to the organizers, Dr. Maqbool Haq, Latafath Hussain and Abbas Ali Khan and the guests for making the night
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a huge success. Moreover, a special thanks to our volunteers who have diligently worked to ensure the success of this event.”
Dr. Uttam Tripathy welcomed the gathering and recognized special guest AAPI President Dr. Jayesh Shah and members of APPI who were there to promote their upcoming Convention in San Antonio from June 25th to 29th, 2014. Dr. Tripathy spoke about the IDA, a non-profit organization founded in 1981 with goals of mentoring and educating, networking and community service. “Our Charity saw more than 1500 patients last year, all free of cost,” Dr. Tripathy, told the guests and also mentioned that the proceeds of the gala would go towards the Indian Doctors Charity Clinic and towards medical school scholarships and community service. On the occasion Dr. Tripathy present a check of $10,000 to the Indian Doctors Charity Clinic which was received by Dr. KT Shah. Dr. Shah said that
the Charity Clinic was seeing 30-40 patients every Saturday and there was need for more volunteers and donations” One day’s income is good for a start or $100 today” he said. Dr. Tripathy also gave away scholarship of $2500 each to three outstanding medical students from Baylor College of Medicine, University of Texas Medical School and UTH. The program began with a series of dances by Rhythum and Beats and an enthralling presentation of India regional folk dances by Shivangani School of Dance and Sunanda Nair’s Performing Arts. Dr. Adeebha Aktar presented a song and the spectacular performance by the Spanish group that danced to Indian Bollywood songs was the highlight of the entertainment segment. Aaron Aryanpur gave a delightful standup comedy performance making the doctors the butt of his jokes. The program was superbly emceed by Dr. Bhuchar and Pooja Lodhia, news anchor of abc 13. A silent auction followed the comedy show and raffle and other prizes by sponsors were given away. A host of sponsors included Morgan Stanley represented by Gary Iyer, BBVA Compass Bank, Kindred medical Center, Key Surgical, St. Luke’s Hospital, Sugar Land, Encore Enterprises, and few others. Madras Pavlion catered the gala dinner.
VOICE OF ASIA 9
COMMUNITY
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
The Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and GIBV host interactive discussion supporting Shri Narendra Modi The Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and GIBV got together on 6th April 2014 for one of the first open interactive discussion supporting Shri Narendra Modi in the 2014 General Election. The “Chai Pe Charcha”
H
Nitish Desai, Member of OFBJP.
OUSTON - The Overseas Friends of BJP (OFBJP) and GIBV got together on Sunday April 6th, 2014 for one of the first open interactive discussion supporting Shri Narendra Modi in the 2014 General Election. The “Chai Pe Charcha” event was organized by Nitish Desai and moderated by the panel consisting of the media team of the OGBJP. The panel members Aadit Kapadia, Pramod Buravalli, Sunanda Vashsisht and Nitish Desai discussed various topics including defense policy, economic issues, NRI contributions, cultural issues and many more. Overall the event was very successful with an attendance of over 100 people in support of Shri Narendra Modi. The event was made possible by the sponsors Mr. Ishwar Desai and Mr. Hiten Modi and by a team of volunteers supervised by Neil Shah.
Left to Right: Pramod Buravalli, Sunanda Vashsisht, Aadit Kapadia (Addressing the audience and taking their questions, & Nitish Desai.
Left to Right: Neil Shah, Nitish Desai, Ishwar Desai, Aadit Kapadia.
Left to Right.: Pramod Buravalli, Sunanda Vashsisht, Aadit Kapadia, & Nitish Desai (Giving a speech to the audience supporting Shri Narendra Modi for the 2014 General Election).
VOICE OF ASIA 11
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Friends of Dr. Ramesh Cherivirala are organizing a Meet and Greet event Excellence in Education and Fiscal Responsibility
SUNDAY, April 27, 2014 • TIME: 3 - 5 pm. VENUE: Udipi Indian Restaurant, Sugar Land
Political Ad Paid for by the Ramesh Cherivirala Campaign, Anu Cherivirala Treasurer
Supporters: Sugar Land City Council Member Harish Jajoo, Missouri City Mayor
Allen Owen, Missouri City Council Member Floyd Emery, Constable Trever Nehls, MJ Khan, Stafford City Council Member Ken Mathew, Munir Ibrahim, Munira Panjwani, Mahesh Wadhwa, Haroon Shaikh, Nasrullah Khan, Ghulam Bombaywala, Mehmood Daya, Nizar Ali, Ramesh Anand, Sanjay Ramabhadran, Jagat Kamdar, Anil and Rathna Kumar, Naren Patel, Sonal and Dr. Subodh Bhuchar, Homi Davier, AVN Reddy, Rajasekhar Yalamanchili, Vijay Pallod, Ramesh Bhutada, Rishi Bhutada, Dinesh Shah, Vish Bhaskaran, Ashok Dhingra, George Willy, Thara Narasiman, Vale Subramaniyam, Shobana Muratee, Lachchman Das, Sanjay Rao, Gitesh Desai, Amee Patel, Nisha Mirani, Harshad Patel, KC Mehta, Ravi Arora, Lalit and Chtur Chinoy, Sunil Thakkar, Deepak Bhatt, Mahendra Korivi, Jithendar Reddy, Prem Cholia, Devesh Pathak, Surinder Trehan, Rana Das Gupta, Hasu Patel, Sathish Marathe Rao, Suma and Krishna Mudan, Thomas Abraham, Neeta Balsaver, Nat and Leela Krishna Murthy, Sita and Bhaskar Mutyala, Nik Nikam, Amey Prakash, Krishna Prasad, Ajit and Deepa Thakur, Nozer Bhuchia, Tanaz Choudhary, Koshy Thomas, Sashidharan Nair, Alpa and Mahesh Shah, Rajan, Jawahar Malhotra and Narayana Reddy Kudumula.
Dr. Ramesh Cherivirala will share his vision, thoughts, and will also answer any questions during this event This is not a fundraiser event
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VOICE OF ASIA 13
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
LIFESTYLE
VOICE OF ASIA 15
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Vol. 27
No. 16
Friday, April 18, 2014 Section 2
Page 15
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com Tel: 713-774-5140
Hundreds attend world’s biggest Passover feast in Nepal
Sex: When standing alone makes you stand out
P
ARIS, (AFP) - Looking the odd one out may seem like a recipe for mating disaster, but it could make you more attractive to the opposite sex. So said a study Wednesday which may also explain why fashions change.
Scientists have long been baffled by the apparent contradiction, but now believe rarity of features, scientifically termed “negative frequency-dependent selection”, may explain some of it.
They showed women sets of pictures of men: clean-shaven, with stubble, or bearded, and had them rate the men’s attractiveness.
In guppies, fish which have the most unusual colour patterns have the most mating success -- and they also happen to live the longest.
Men with beards scored better when they were surrounded by clean-shaved faces, and vice versa, the study found.
But how does it apply to humans?
Under the theory of sexual selection, female animals choose mates with desirable features, which are often “advertised” through adornments such as colourful tail feathers in peacocks.
by Paavan MATHEMA
Logically, these sought-after features should eventually dominate the
Chabad House Nepal, which organises the celebration every year, usually relies on the Israeli embassy to help import supplies for the meal to the impoverished Himalayan nation. The Orthodox Jewish group has organised the event for more than a decade, overcoming problems ranging from a ten-year Maoist insurgency to the recent strike by Israeli diplomats. “We were prepared to organise the celebration with or without the shipment, but we are very glad it has arrived,” said Rabbi Chezki Lifshitz, co-director of Chabad House Nepal. Dozens of backpackers, many sporting dreadlocks and bandanas, lined up Monday evening to purchase $15 tickets for the feast, held at an upscale hotel, where tables decorated with balloons were set for 1,000 expected guests. Organisers left a pile of traditional Jewish skullcaps or kippahs at the candle-lit entrance for male visitors to cover
As guests filtered into the ballroom, sipping wine or mint lemonade, hotel staff and Chabad volunteers worked furiously inside the crowded kitchen, unpacking boxes of brand-new cutlery and crockery, slicing and dicing tomatoes and onions, frying aubergines and roasting beef brisket.
Lifshitz had earlier appealed to Israeli backpackers to bring food supplies with them to Kathmandu before diplomats ended their strike over salaries two weeks ago and returned to work. “Every year we have a story to tell... but we find a way to come together, celebrate and make the feast successful,” Lifshitz told AFP. - ‘One big family’ Passover is usually celebrated with
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An Ultra-Orthodox Jew places a leavened item on a fire in the Israeli city of Bnei Brak on April 14, 2014, before the start of the Jewish Passover holiday. only close family, but 25 years ago the Israeli embassy invited Jewish visitors to Kathmandu to share in a meal, kicking off the annual tradition. “There was no way I would have missed this,” said Shvut-Ami Ansbacher, a 23-year-old Israeli student visiting Nepal. “It feels like one big family,” she told AFP.
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It also highlights the advantages of being able to manipulate one’s look.
The paper, led by Barnaby Dixson of the University of New South Wales, was published in the Royal Society journal Biology Letters.
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The new research builds on this, giving a clearer idea of the value in being the odd one out.
Novelty styles boost the chance of reproductive success because they stand out. Conformists then mimic these “influential early adopters”, which eventually leads to new rebels emerging in a cycle of change.
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Other work has pointed to mens’ preferences for unfamiliar female faces that, to them, look exotic.
This could explain why fashions keep changing.
In keeping with Jewish kosher dietary rules, volunteers spent the morning firing up blowtorches to remove all previous traces of food from the kitchen. Supplies, stuck in the Indian port of Kolkata since last month, arrived Monday afternoon and included one tonne of unleavened bread, 2,000 bottles of wine, 3,000 pieces of gefilte fish (poached ground fish) and other traditional Jewish foods.
Past research has suggested that hair colour variation spread through Europe on the back of such “novelty” selection, and that men’s preference for brown hair increases when it is rare.
“If men tailored their grooming in order to be distinctive... that could confer an advantage to rare-beard styles that would decay as a style grew more popular,” said the study.
their heads.
KATHMANDU, April 14, 2014 (AFP) - Hundreds of Jewish travellers in Kathmandu attended what organisers claim was the world’s biggest Passover celebration on Monday, as food supplies delayed for weeks due to a diplomats’ strike arrived just hours before the feast.
Instead, genetic variations are perpetuated across generations specifically because they give a survival edge with combinations of “good genes”, compared to the mainstream.
Researchers in Australia used beards to test a theory that some features become more desirable when fewer people have them.
“In some cases, rarity in ornamentation can be advantageous,” said the paper, which may explain a puzzle of evolutionary science.
Israeli Jewish worshippers light candles as they perform a ceremony for Passover in Kathmandu, Nepal, on April 14, 2014. ( - AFP/Getty Images)
gene pool and less desirable variations weeded out -- but this is not the case.
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Yisroel New, a 24-year-old American student who flew to Kathmandu last week to help organise the feast, told AFP many travellers planned their visits to Nepal to coincide with the celebration. “Many feel that this is an eye-opening experience for them to witness the ritual in its authenticity,” he said. The celebration opened with a Passover song, followed by a prayer, after
which guests raised their glasses and sat down to enjoy the feast. This year’s menu included roast chicken and beef, pumpkin soup and a variety of salads with cucumber, tomatoes and olives. For Passover, kosher laws forbid leavened and fermented grain products, including foods like bread and pasta. The requirement for unleavened food dates back to the Exodus, when the Jews escaped Egypt with no time to let their breads rise. Instead, for Passover, Jews eat matzo, an unleavened bread.
VOICE OF ASIA 17
Friday, April 18, 2014
Young Life Section 2
Page 17
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
With few jobs for the young no wonder the quarter-life crisis is on the rise
WA S H INGTON, (AFP) - US lawmakers want electronic cigarettes to be treated just like tobacco products when it comes to barring the sales and marketing of the controversial devices to children.
by Nyika Suttie, theguardian.com,
M
When I left university, everything seemed mapped out. I would move back home, like a quarter of young people are thought to do, temp for a year and then return to university in September to do a masters. Except it didn’t work out like that. I did the temping, but after six months it became apparent that I wasn’t going to earn enough to do a masters, and living at home wasn’t exactly a picnic. It was during a month of putting files in boxes for a security firm that I decided I’d had enough of having no hope and decided to do something radical. I applied for an outdoor learning tutor post by the seaside, and I got the job. I spent the happiest six months of my life teaching children geography and adventure and living five minutes from the beach, but it soon came to an end. In the last months of the job I realised there was no way I could sustainably stay in seasonal work without having to constantly move back home, so instead I moved home for an indeterminate length of time. A product of the boomerang generation twice over. The thing is, I was really lucky. I had
Every time I get a temporary job people tell me it’ll turn permanent. But it never does, and my internship won’t either.’ Photograph: Siri Berting/Getty always harboured an unusual urge to work in local government, so I applied for an internship in environmental planning 300 miles away. Now here I am, living in a shared house where there’s never a clean pan with my boyfriend and other friends wondering when exactly I’m supposed to become a grown-up. Life just hasn’t changed that much since university. I’m a little more mature, but I don’t really feel old enough to be making plans that will influence my entire life. There’s an amazing amount of pressure to work towards a career the moment you leave university, and for many that means working for free. I’m one of the lucky ones, I’m paid a minimum wage. While I’m getting great experience of public sector working, I’m also living in one of the most expensive cities outside of London, and my wage doesn’t go very far. I didn’t grow up in an affluent household, so an unpaid internship was never an option for me. I’m really scared that I’ll end up unemployed after this internship. Every time I get a
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US lawmakers: no e-cigarette sales or ads to youths
There’s pressure to begin a career as soon as we graduate, but with unemployment rife that’s easier said than done
y boyfriend isn’t having a great time of it at the moment. Having graduated with a creative writing degree last June, he’s just been made unemployed from a painting and decorating job. He has no idea what he wants to do with his life, and no time to figure it out. My situation is quite the opposite. I’m employed as an intern at a council, a position I will probably be in for another five months. I’m getting the minimum wage, and my department has freely admitted they only employed an intern because we’re “very economical”, but it’s a job. I’ve also just spent three months having counselling, because getting to where I want to be in life just feels impossible.
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
temporary job people tell me it’ll turn permanent. But it never does, and my internship won’t either. The council will employ another intern. But I still feel I’m one of the lucky ones. As mentioned, my boyfriend has no idea what he wants to do, and that makes working towards a career rather difficult. Pressure is coming from all directions for him to choose something to go into while he applies for cleaning jobs because he doesn’t think he can get anything else. It seems even the dead-end jobs that Nina Stibbe took such delight in after university aren’t available to us without several years of experience. Is it any wonder the “quarter-life crisis” is on the rise? It seems everyone I know in their 20s is worrying, and nobody’s getting an easy ride. We’re old enough to be seen as grown-ups, but too young to truly want to be one. We’re expected to work for a pittance, or nothing at all, and to set our sights on the future before our present is even in any sort of order. It’s easy to see why we’re struggling.
E-cigarettes are battery-operated devices Senate and House Democrats said Monday that the Food and oriented concerts, while seven of the Drug Administration (FDA), the agency companies broadcast TV or radio adverresponsible for protecting public health tising. in the United States, has the legislative One company, NJOY, advertised durauthority it needs to step in. ing the Super Bowl, one of the mostThe FDA is expected to issue regula- watched televised events in the United tions on e-cigarettes later this year, but States. whether or not an advertising ban or Swift FDA action “is necessary to ensales restrictions to youths will be in- sure that e-cigarette manufacturers stop cluded is unclear. targeting kids,” Senator Dick Durbin, “Federal laws and regulations pro- who spearheaded the restrictions push hibit traditional cigarettes from being along with congressman Henry Waxsold to persons younger than 18 years man, told reporters. of age, distributed as free samples, adWaxman said the FDA should issue vertised on television and radio, and regulations that deem e-cigarettes the having characterizing candy and fruit same as conventional tobacco products flavors that appeal to children,” eleven in order to close a regulations loophole. lawmakers said in their report entitled “Manufacturers are taking advantage “Gateway to Addiction?” of the absence of federal e-cigarette “There is no federal ban on the use of regulations to aggressively market their such tactics by e-cigarette manufactur- products,” he said. ers.” The industry insists e-cigarettes help E-cigarettes are battery-operated de- smokers kick their habit, but Durbin vices that deliver nicotine that is vapor- dismisses that argument, saying they ized into an aerosol inhaled by the user. “lure children” into nicotine addiction. The report found that of the nation’s E-cigarette use among young people nine manufacturers of e-cigarettes is soaring. -- which are marketed under various A December study by the US Centers names including vape pipes or e-hookahs -- six sell flavors such as Cherry for Disease Control and Prevention esCrush or Chocolate Treat that could ap- timated that 10 percent of high school students had used e-cigarettes. peal to children. The lawmakers estimated e-cigarette Most also have provided free samples at hundreds of events, including youth- sales neared $2 billion in 2013.
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VOICE OF ASIA 19
Menil Collection Presents: In anticipation of the Menil exhibition Experiments with Truth: Gandhi and Images of Nonviolence October 2, 2014 - February 1, 2015 Ramachandra Guha India’s preeminent historian brings Gandhi Before India to Houston
A reading, discussion, and book-signing Monday, April 21st, 6:30 p.m.
T
he first in a multiplevolume biography of one of the 20th century’s most influential and controversial men, Gandhi Before India takes us from Gandhi’s birth in 1869 through his two decades as a lawyer and community organizer in South Africa. The result, writes The Guardian, is “a work of vivid social history (and) fresh biography.” Winning access to private family papers and secret files kept by the British Empire, Guha captures the social, political, and personal worlds of a man whose legacy resonates in our time – for all time. “Indian democracy’s pre-em-
inent chronicler” (Time Magazine), Ramachandra Guha has held visiting professorships at Stanford, Yale, and the London School of Economics. He lives in Bangalore. Copies of Gandhi Before India will be on sale at the Menil Collection Bookstore beginning April 15. The book can also be purchased at the museum for the author to sign on April 21. Co-presented with Inprint. For more information visit Menil.org or call 713.525.9400. Open to the public • RSVP not required • Seating is limited
About RAMACHANDRA GUHA Author of GANDHI BEFORE INDIA
R
amachandra Guha has taught at Yale and Stanford universities, the University of Oslo, the Indian Institute of Science and the London School of Economics. His books include a pioneering environmental history, an award-winning social history of cricket and the award-winning India After Gandhi. He writes regularly on social and political issues for the British and Indian press, including columns in The Telegraph and the Hindustan Times, and his work has also appeared in The New York Times. He lives in Bangalore.
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New Exhibition at Asia Society Texas Center Presents Fascinating Depictions of Indian Gods and Goddesses
H
OUSTON — Asia Society Texas Center will present a series of vibrant photographs by Brooklyn-based Indian contemporary artist Manjari Sharma and modern chromolithographs produced by the Raja Ravi Varma Press in an exhibition entitled Transcendent Deities of India: The Everyday Occurrence of the Divine, on view May 2 through September 14, 2014. This is the first time these artists’ works have been presented together in Texas. The exhibition of nearly 60 images will be on view in the Louisa Stude Sarofim Gallery at the Texas Center and is funded in part by a grant from the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance. “Transcendent Deities of India features Hindu gods and goddesses depicted in the less familiar formats of photography and chromolithography which demonstrates their ongoing relevance to more recent artists who utilized the technology of their eras,” said Bridget Bray, director of exhibitions, Asia Society Texas Center. “These modern and contemporary representations of the deities preserve the tangible connection between worshippers and the objects of their reverence, which has an important religious function as well as making the works visually compelling to a broader audience.” Bray notes that religious pilgrims frequently make arduous journeys to see important depictions of deities in place at temples and other settings. “We are thrilled to bring this fascinating exhibition of Indian art to Houston,” said Bonna Kol, executive director, Asia Society Texas Center. “This is a unique opportunity to promote understanding between cultures by viewing aspects of religious art and practice in South Asia through a modern and contemporary lens.” Artist’s Photography Lens Enlivens Tradition Some of the Sharma works coming to the Texas Center most recently appeared as part of the artist’s Darshan exhibition at the Richard Levy Gallery in Albuquerque, NM, from
Image Credit:Manjari Sharma, Lord Vishnu, from the Darshan series, 2013, Chromogenic print, 60 x 48 in, Edition 1/2, Courtesy of Richard Levy Gallery and the artist.
March 8 to April 18, 2014. Associated with Hindu worship, darshan is a Sanskrit word meaning vision or view and refers to the experience of connection between deity and viewer. Historically, Hindu deities have been depicted predominantly through sculpture rather than Sharma’s chosen mode of photography. Multiple trips to Mumbai and collaborations with a sizable team of local artisans, sculptors, and painters resulted in lavish sets, ornate costumes, and models styled to render each of the nine elaboratelystaged archetypal representations. Varma’s Prints Popularize Subjects Raja Ravi Varma (1848–1906) was an Indian artist whose paintings are considered to be among the best examples of the fusion of Indian traditions with the techniques of European academic art. Varma’s paintings became an important motif of the time, but Varma also pursued advances in the chromolithography of the era. He founded several presses to make his images more widely available, resulting in
reproductions being found in homes and businesses. These works with their colors and shading were markedly different from earlier prints. In addition, they were frequently embellished with fabric and materials that further adorned the deities depicted. The works in this exhibition are loaned courtesy of the Ramchander Nath Foundation, New Delhi, India, and Manjari Sharma and the Richard Levy Gallery, Albuquerque, NM. The exhibition is supported by the City of Houston through Houston Arts Alliance. About Manjari Sharma Born in Mumbai and raised in India, Sharma was immersed in her Hindu culture as a child. In her early 20’s, she moved to the U.S. to pursue photography. Visits to Hindu temples were gradually replaced by sojourns to museums and art galleries with the same dedication. The Darshan series bridges the gap of these two separate worlds. Among her recent awards and honors, in 2013 Sharma was selected for the New York Times Port-
folio Review; took honorable mention for Santa Fe Prize in 2011 PDN 30; and was a 2010 Photolucida Critical Mass Finalist Review Santa Fe 2010. Sharma received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Columbus College of Art & Design, Columbus, OH, and also studied at S.V.T. College in Mumbai. About Raja Ravi Varma Raja Ravi Varma (1848– 1906) was an Indian artist from the princely state of Travancore in southern India who achieved recognition for his depiction of scenes from the epics of the Mahabharata and Ramayana. Primarily a self-taught artist, he chose oil as his primary medium but explored other methods of production. He founded several presses to make his images more widely available, resulting in reproductions being found in almost every middle-class home. His exposure in the west grew when he won the first prize in the Vienna Art Exhibition in 1873 and is sometimes referred to as the “Father of Modern Indian Painting.” Asia Society Texas Center Asia Society Texas Center is part of a leading global educational organization that promotes mutual understanding and strengthens partnerships among peoples, leaders, and institutions of Asia and the United States. Across the fields of arts, business, culture, education, and policy, Asia Society Texas Center provides insight, generates ideas, and promotes collaboration to connect Americans and Asians for a shared future. Asia Society Texas Center officially opened its headquarters, which was designed by famed Japanese architect Yoshio Taniguchi, in April 2012. Part of the international Asia Society, which has offices in 11 of the world’s leading cities, the Texas Center works to promote mutual understanding and strengthen partnerships among people, leaders and institutions both here and in Asia. More information about the exhibitions, opening events, and ongoing programs can be found at AsiaSociety.org/ Texas.
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Friday, April 18, 2014
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FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
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Apply For Obama Care with New, 24-Hour Nurse Call Center Helps You Avoid Crowded Emergency Rooms a Special Enrollment Period
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OUSTON (April 7, 2014) – Citizens in Houston, Harris County and the eight surrounding counties now have a new resource at their fingertips – a 24-hour Nurse Triage Call Center that will help them with healthcare questions and choose the most appropriate place for care.
Regardless of healthcare affiliation, primary care provider, or insurance status, a bilingual staff is available 24 hours, every day to answer calls on theNurse Health Line – 713-338-7979 – to assess callers’ primary health concerns and direct them to an appropriate level of care. “When you don’t feel well, the last thing you want to do is wait in a crowded emergency room,” said Dan Wolterman, President and CEO of Memorial Hermann Health System. “This new, free community-wide resource lets you talk directly with a Registered Nurse who will ask questions, determine what level of care you need, then refer you to an appropriate resource. It’s important to note that this service is not just for Memorial Hermann patients; it is available to all residents living in Harris County and the greater Houston region.” The Nurse Health Line is one of several Memorial Hermannsponsored Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment,
or DSRIP programs. Memorial Hermann is part of Region 3’s Southeast Texas Regional Healthcare Partnership anchored by Harris Health System, and includes the counties of: Austin, Calhoun, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Matagorda, Waller, and Wharton.
“The Nurse Health Line is an example of a smart solution to a regional problem – more efficient delivery of healthcare,” said Harris County Judge Ed Emmett. “While Harris Health is the anchor of Region 3, this service will benefit citizens in Harris County, as well as eight other counties. It can potentially improve access to care and enable more efficient use of the emergency rooms in this region because trained nurses will answer calls and help direct people who are uncertain about what they should do when they have a health concern.” After an assessment is made, callers will be advised to seek care with their physician of choice or referred to local emergent care centers. Additionally, community health workers will be available to provide information on free or low cost community resources or clinics. The Nurse Health Line is not designed to assist with life-threatening conditions or emergencies. People with lifethreatening conditions and
emergencies should immediately call 911.
“With visits to the emergency room at an all-time high in Houston, wait times have skyrocketed,” said Mayor Annise Parker. “This program will help us make sure that ambulances and emergency rooms are available for crises, and non-critical healthcare is delivered in a more appropriate setting. The health cost savings for our community may be significant.” More than 46 percent of all patients treated and released from emergency rooms in Harris County are primary care treatable, according to a study conducted by the University of Texas School of Public Health. These visits result, in part, because patients do not have the clinical knowledge to assess the severity of symptoms of less emergent conditions and determine where to go for appropriate care. Consequently, emergency rooms in southeast Texas are at capacity and facilities struggle to meet the needs of patients in a timely manner. All calls to the Nurse Health Line are confidential and addressed by a staff of professionals who are experienced in assessment of clinical situations. To help patients who call, nurses use their training, experience, evidence-based de-
cision-support tools, and peerreviewed materials to conduct their assessments.
DSRIP projects like the Nurse Health Line are approved and funded through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services and Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). The Texas HHSC approves DSRIP projects through the 1115-Waiver application process which gives the U.S. Health and Human Services department authority to approve experimental, pilot, or demonstration projects that promote the objectives of CMS and CHIP programs. “A primary goal of the Nurse Health Line is to improve access to care and ensure more efficient use of the emergency rooms in Houston, including Harris and the surrounding counties,” said Carol Paret, Chief, Community Benefits Officer, Privacy and Security Officer for Memorial Hermann. “Based on historical experience, projections indicate that approximately 25 percent of the calls will be triaged to a lower-level care setting.” In recent years, emergency rooms at local public and private hospitals in Harris County regularly have gone on ‘driveby status,’ requiring ambulances to divert seriously ill or injured patents to other facilities.
Blood clue to prostate cancer recurrence
P
ARIS, April 14, 2014 (AFP) - Men with blood group O are far less likely to suffer a recurrence of cancer after prostate tumour surgery than men with other blood types, researchers reported on Monday.
A standard treatment for localised prostate cancer is to remove the whole gland, a procedure called radical prostatectomy, but this fails to stop the cancer in nearly a third of patients. Japanese researchers looked
at 555 men who had had radical prostatectomy, examining their case 52 months on average after the operation. Patients with blood group O were 35 percent less likely to have a recurrence of cancer compared with patients with
blood group A, they found. “This is the first time that anyone has shown that prostate cancer recurrence can vary with blood group,” Yoshio Ohno of Tokyo Medical University said in a press release. More work is needed to explore this surprising finding, but if the results are confirmed, important changes lie in store for medical practice, he said. “For example, should we be counselling people with certain blood groups that they have a greater or lesser chance of recurrence, and should these risk factors be built into decisions on treatment?”
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The research was issued at a conference in Stockholm of the European Association of Urology.
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Incorrect plan data was displayed at the time that you selected your health plan, such as benefit or cost-sharing information. This includes issues where some consumers were allowed to enroll in plans offered in a different area, or enroll in plans that don’t allow certain categories of family relationships to enroll together. Medicaid/Marketplace transfers • If you applied for Medicaid through your state, or were sent to Medicaid from the Marketplace, but you weren’t eligible for Medicaid. • Your state transferred your information to the Marketplace but you didn’t get an answer about your eligibility and/or didn’t get enrolled before March 31. Error messages Your application was stopped due to specific error messages. For example, you received a “data sources down” error message or another error message that didn’t allow you to enroll. Unresolved casework You’re working with a caseworker on an enrollment issue that didn’t get resolved before March 31. Victims of domestic abuse You’re a victim of domestic abuse and weren’t previously allowed to enroll and receive advance payments of the premium tax credit separately from your spouse. You’ll be able to do so now. Other system errors Other system errors that kept you from enrolling, as determined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services If you’re already enrolled in a plan and you get a special enrollment period, you can stay in your current plan in most cases, or you can switch plans. In some limited cases, you may qualify for an earlier effective date of coverage. Remember, you must make the first premium payment before your coverage becomes effective. For Prompt enrollment call 713-771-2900
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fter Open Enrollment, you can enroll in private coverage through the Marketplace only if you have a qualifying life event or a complex situation related to applying in the Marketplace. A change in your life that can make you eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in health coverage. Examples of qualifying life events are moving to a new state, certain changes in your income, and changes in your family size (for example, if you marry, divorce, or have a baby). You can qualify for a special enrollment period if either of the following applies to you: • You have a qualifying life event like having a baby, getting married, or losing other coverage. Learn more about special enrollment periods and other coverage options outside Open Enrollment. • You have other complicated situations, as described on this page. Other complicated cases that may qualify for a special enrollment period Below are cases and examples that may also qualify you for a special enrollment period. Exceptional circumstance You faced a serious medical condition or natural disaster that kept you from enrolling. For example: • An unexpected hospitalization or temporary cognitive disability • A natural disaster, such as an earthquake, massive flooding, or hurricane • A planned Marketplace system outage, such as Social Security Administration system outage Misinformation or misrepresentation Misconduct by a non-Marketplace enrollment assister (like an insurance company, navigator, certified application counselor, or agent or broker) resulted in you: • Not getting enrolled in a plan • Being enrolled in the wrong plan • Not getting the premium tax credit or cost-sharing reduction you were eligible for Enrollment error The insurance company was unable to process your enrollment because of a technical error between the Marketplace and the insurance company. System errors related to immigration status An error in the processing of applications or system caused you to get an incorrect immigration eligibility result when you tried to apply for coverage. Display errors on HealthCare.gov
Dr. Deepshikha Sharda
D
iabetes Mellitus is a condition where blood glucose levels are above normal. With a diagnosis of diabetes, the body does not know how to use sugar (or glucose) for energy. High glucose levels for years can lead to damage of the nerves and blood vessels in the body. This damage can lead to increased risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blindness, dental
problems, nerve problems and amputation.
(>150 mg/dL) & low HDL (<35 mg/dL)
South Asians are at increased risk for diabetes. Genetics, combined with a diet high in refined carbohydrates and a sedentary lifestyle, contributes to the development of diabetes in many South Asians.
• A sedentary lifestyle
Risk Factors for Diabetes in South Asians: • A first degree relative with diabetes • Being overweight or having a Body Mass Index (BMI) > 23 • Age > 40 years • Diagnosis of high blood pressure or blood pressure >140/90 • Abnormal cholesterol levels, particularly high triglycerides
• History of diabetes during pregnancy or giving birth to a baby weighing >9 pounds • Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Identify your risk factors by working with your primary care physician. Incorporating lifestyle changes can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. Dr. Deepshikha Sharda is a family medicine physician with Houston Methodist Primary Care Group. To make an appointment with Dr. Sharda, call 281.208.3322.
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Weak U.S. prices, not inflation, Xoom Announces Instant Dethe threat now: Fed’s Yellen posit Service to HDFC Bank Accounts in India
Xoom’s revolutionary technology enables instant deposits to one of the largest banks in India
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AN FRANCISCO, CA, March 31, 2014 -- Xoom Corporation (NASDAQ: XOOM), a leading digital money transfer provider, today announced a partnership with HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE: HDB), by offering instant deposits to INR denominated HDFC Bank accounts in India. This breakthrough service allows Xoom customers to instantly deposit money directly into their recipients’ HDFC Bank accounts in India. The instant service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year--even on banking holidays. U.S. Federal Reserve chair Janet Yellen speaks to the Economic Club of New York in New York April 16, 2014. Credit: Reuters/Brendan Mcdermid
By Jonathan Spicer EW YORK (Reuters) - Persistently low inflation poses a more immediate threat to the U.S. economy than rising prices, Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen said on Wednesday, stressing that the U.S. central bank would be delivering policy stimulus for some time to come.
N
In her second public speech since taking the Fed’s helm, Yellen was careful not to predict when interest rates would rise from near zero. Instead, she stressed the decision would hinge on healing in the labor market and on how briskly inflation rises toward the Fed’s 2 percent goal. Yellen’s relatively staid remarks to the Economic Club of New York intensified somewhat when Martin Feldstein, a Harvard University professor and former adviser to President Ronald Reagan, asked her whether she would let inflation creep above 2 percent to give the economy a bit more support. “With inflation running at around 1 percent, at this point I think the risk is greater that we should be worried about inflation undershooting our goal and getting inflation back up to 2 percent,” Yellen said. The central bank will “of course” eventually need to tighten policy to avoid a run-up in inflation, she said. “Overshooting that goal ... can be very costly to reverse.” Yellen noted the Fed was not alone in its struggle to move inflation higher as a buffer against an economically disabling deflation. The European Central Bank is mulling unconventional policies that could lift inflation in the euro zone, while Japan has been mired in deflation for 15 years.
The Fed has kept its key rate near zero since the depths of the financial crisis in late 2008, and has bought more than $3 trillion in assets to help depress borrowing costs and stimulate economic growth amid a frustratingly slow recovery. While the central bank’s preferred inflation gauge is just above 1 percent, a more popular measure firmed in March. Jobs growth was also decent last month, but the unemployment rate stayed high at 6.7 percent as Americans returned to the labor market in droves to search for work. U.S. stocks added to gains on Yellen’s remarks, which investors viewed as underscoring the Fed’s willingness to be patient in nursing the economy back to full health. “This concern about the persistent weakness in inflation provides the key justification for the Fed to remain cautious about tightening policy prematurely or too aggressively,” said Millan Mulraine, deputy chief economist at TD Securities. VAGUE ROAD MAP FOR WALL STREET An apparent pick up in the world’s largest economy after a sluggish winter has many investors attempting to predict when the Fed will finally raise rates, with most eying mid-2015. Yellen herself said it was “quite plausible” the economy would be back to near full employment and a healthier level of inflation by the end of 2016. “We are seeing very meaningful progress, although clearly ... the goal has not been achieved at this point,” she said. “We will be very
focused on removing accommodation when the right time has come.” In the last few years, the Fed has tried an array of strategies to telegraph just how long it will wait to tighten policy, including tying the ultra-low rates to time periods, and later, to specific unemployment and inflation thresholds. Last month it rolled out its latest version of forward guidance, effectively promising not to raise rates for a “considerable time” after it halts its bond-buying program. But Yellen sowed more confusion when she then told a news conference that a “considerable time” means about “six months” or so, causing a selloff in stocks and bonds. Yellen did not mention the six-month term on Wednesday. How long rates will stay near zero, she said, will depend on how far the U.S. economy remains from the central bank’s goals of 2 percent inflation and maximum sustainable employment, and how long it will likely take to meet them. She repeated her view that there is likely more slack in the labor market than suggested by the unemployment rate, which lessens the risk of inflationary wage gains as the economy strengthens. But she emphasized that unforeseeable events could alter the central bank’s current course, as it has several times since the economy began recovering from the 2007-2009 recession. The Fed could even set aside efforts to wind down its bond-buying stimulus if dealt an economic surprise, Yellen said. Financial markets believe the Fed is nearly certain to end its purchases by year end.
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money from the US in a secure manner, at any time of the day or night. Xoom provides great lockedin exchange rates for money transfers to India, and there is no fee when customers send more than $1,000 and pay with their U.S.-based bank account. Plus, Xoom continues to provide fast bank deposits within four hours to all other banks in India, including to NRE and NRO accounts, when sent during bank processing hours in India. Customers can also download the Xoom App for Android and iOS mobile devices for free. Visit https:// www.xoom.com/india for more information. About Xoom Xoom is a leading digital money transfer provider in 31 countries, focused on helping consumers send money in a secure, fast and cost-effective way using their mobile phone, tablet or computer. During the year ended December 31, 2013, Xoom’s more than one million active customers sent more than $5.5 billion to family and friends. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and can be found online at www. xoom.com. About HDFC Promoted in 1995 by Housing Development Finance Corporation (HDFC), India’s leading housing finance company, HDFC Bank is one of India’s premier banks providing a wide range of financial products and services to its 28.5 million customers across hundreds of Indian cities using multiple distribution channels including a pan-India network of branches, ATMs, phone banking, net
banking and mobile banking. Within a relatively short span of time, the Bank has emerged as a leading player in retail banking, wholesale banking, and treasury operations, its three principal business segments. The Bank’s competitive strength clearly lies in the use of technology and the ability to deliver world-class service with rapid response time. Over the last 19 years, the Bank has successfully gained market share in its target customer franchises while maintaining healthy profitability and asset quality. As of December 31, 2013, the Bank had a distribution network with 3,336 branches and 11,473 ATMs in 2,104 cities/towns. For the quarter ended December 31, 2013, the Bank’s total income was INR 127.39 billion (`12,739.0 crore) as against INR 108.18 billion (`10,818.1 crore) for the quarter ended December 31, 2012. Net revenues (net interest income plus other income) were INR 67.83 billion (`6,783.1 crore) for the quarter ended December 31, 2013, as against INR 59.09 billion (`5,909.4 crore) for the corresponding quarter of the previous year. Net Profit for the quarter ended December 31, 2013, was INR 23.25 billion (`2,235.7 crore), up by 25.1% over the corresponding quarter ended December 31, 2012. Total income for the year ended March 31, 2013, was INR 419.175 billion (`41,917.5 crore). Leading Indian and international publications have recognised the Bank for its performance and quality. For more information please log on to: www.hdfcbank.com
Read latest on US and World business on: www.VoiceofAsiaOnline.com HAUTE INDIA JEWELRY SHOW April 19th, 2014 SATURDAY • TIME: 11AM to 8 PM Venue: Hilton Garden Inn, Sugar Land 722 Bona venture Way, Sugar Land, Houston TX 77479
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VOICE OF ASIA 25
SPECIAL/CULTURE
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Holi celebrations in Houston draws record breaking crowd
H
oustonians reveled in sheer ecstasy at Masala Radio’s sun-kissed Holi, Festival of Colors on Sunday March 30th, despite the inclement weather postponement from the original March 23rd date. Ten days prior, Facebook and Twitter followers were a flurry with “What? Why did you move holi? But we made plans!!” Aaaah to be young and not see past the weekend! The perfect day packed Seabourne Creek Park to the rim at the 7th annual Aapka Colors Houston Holi 2014 also presented by MTV INDIA and TARA ENERGY. Crowds danced at 3 different Live DJs & Dholi’s and rocked as Mercedes Benz of Sugarland presented pop star Raghav crooning his Storyteller hits “Angel Eyes”, ‘Teri Baaton Mein” and recent Bollywood hit “Ishq Shava” to a frenzy of fans both teen and not-so-teen-but-screaming-like-theywere-teens. Youths witnessed for the first time in their lives a real Matki Phod Sponsored by New York Life. Matki Phod , a traditional event in India were a clay pot containing maakhand or curds is suspended high in the air, and dedicated teams build a human pyramid to break the matki (as Lord Krishna did The host team Masala Radio with Holi revelers in his childhood to reach the forbidlywood En- “way more than the 17,000 we estiden maakhand). tertainment mated last year.” The audience held hosted by “Tune hava mein bhaang milaya…” their breath when Sunil Thak- Indeed, the God-given air-conditionthe 3-tier Masala kar with ing breezes were intoxicating and Crew team – after his “DOSTI distracting from the Equinox Sun two huge falls – KE RANG” beaming from a clear sky as thousands finally broke the t h e m e d reveled in HOLI madness. And while clay pot containBullet Mo- the ancient official drink of HOLI – ing….color powt o r c y c l e bhaang – was clearly missing, crowds der! HOLI HAI!! entry. The feasted on exotic Dosas like the bean, And mazaa kisko “ F R E E S ” cheese & salsa dosa of The Dosa Facnahin ayenga? were made tory, Golas, Kulfis, and Faloodas from Besides mouthpossible by BALOCH, cookies & brownies from watering food the generous Great American Cookies, heavenly lineup, everything major spon- chaat from Mirch Masala and Kurrywas free! Free s o r s h i p s walah, Potato Stix and Indo Chinese parking, Free enof Alings from Sagar Indian Cuisine, South Intry, Free brand Hakka, The dian fare from Madras Pavilion, and new Keemat Kids Dosa Fac- Nizam-style cuisine from Hyderabad Rides, and Free tory, Amit House and North Indian cuisine from bags and spices & Arpita the new Signature India Restaurant. from AAPKA B h a n d a r i , The Chatpat Jhatpat Eating Contest COLORS, Free Gopal & had the audience rolling in laughter iced Deep juices U r v i s h i as Sunil T had 6 random contestants and bottle water Matki Phod in action Savjani, Ju- race to eat the most Chatpats in one from Tara Energy, gal & Raj minute. Free Chat Pat Malani, snacks and balloons from House of Keemat Grocers, Mercedes Benz Of “Balam pichkari jo tune mujhe Spices, Sonu Nigam ticket giveaways, Sugarland, New York Life, Skai Foun- maari…” ICC’s sold-out pichkaris, 200 Free perfumes thrown by W Per- dation & Chat Pats. Rosenberg Police and the Alings Rain Dance crew’s fumes, and hundreds of Free T-shirts could not define the sheer number eight new 6’ high sprinklers added from Masala Radio, the movie JINN , of people, summarizing the count as a new level of water play to HOLI. and Fiesta, and Free mesmerizing Bol-
hearts. Hype built throughout the performances by Nuppor Dance School, Bollywood Shake, and UH’s Jannat. The change of date prevented two HOLI stalwarts Dancing Starz of Katy and Shivangai Dance Schools for performing. But Rhythm India wowed the audience with over 65 performers some in stunning neon costumes and precision moves. Finale act Naach Houston blew everyone away with over 100 performers in non-stop blast of Bollywood hits with surprise Pichkaris, vibrant costumes, unbelievable energy, and of course synchronized “thumkas!” . The crowds jumped from their seats to finally get to dance themselves as MTV India presented the Battle of the DJs. Bollywood (DJ Nish) vs Bhangra (DJ GEO). MTV INDIA declared it a tie as the audience were equally screaming during both sets!
Of course the natural side effect was a fresh mud pit which hundreds fell victim to! Bura Na Mano…HOLI HAI!! Oh yeah? Tell that to a teen girl drenched in mud! Amee Patel, president of the Gujarati Samaj of Houston ordered double the Holi colored powder than last year in 6 vibrant colors, and as promised kept the HOLI revelers supplied to the end. HOLI PRAGTYA – the official lighting of the HOLI bonfire – started with a stage pooja by Priest Parimal Joshi with all major Holi Sponsors, followed with a Jaganath Chariot procession and finished with prayers and coconut offerings to the growing fire. The Chariot held Lord Jaganath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, who in the story of HOLI comes to rescue Prahlad from burning to death while in the lap of his evil aunt Hollika. Young ISKCON devotees from ISKCON chanted “Hare Krishna, Hare Rama” throughout the Festival, and invited all to the grand opening of their incredible new ISKON temple on May 17th. “Haa Jeans pahen ke jo tune maara thumka…” Masala Radio’s Sunil Thakkar introducing mesmerizing Bollywood dances by Houston’s leading dance schools. Ek Do Teen’s little 3-5 year olds stole the audience’s
Toh lattoo padosan ki bhabhi ho gayi…” Even the most serious, seedha saadha caught HOLI Fever. Houston Holi was a joint community event organized by Sunil & Sandhya Thakkar of Masala Radio, presented by Aapka Colors, MTV India, & Tara Energy, with partnering organizations Gujarati Samaj of Houston, India Cutlure Center, and Hindus of Greater Houston. Masala Radio thanks the immeasurable contributions of over 120 sponsors, 12 restaurants, 55 booths, 20 vendors, and over 115 volunteers from surrounding schools including UH ISA, Austin High School, and Hightower. 36 Masala Crew members led by Event Directors Munira Vejlani, Ruchir Patel, and Rinku Gosh included: Shah, Charliebhai, Ninad, Chiragbhai, Malav, Sunny, Amir, Sameep, Devan, Devangi, Shivani, Shreya, and Sara. Stage Masala Crew managed by Preanka Desai and Dilip Kanabar included: Rajoo, Pankti, Sandeep, Natasha, Priti, Krupa, Ina, Mayur, and Keval. Masala Radio Jockeys promoting the event for 2 months were: Preanka, Rajoo, Dilip, Alka, Bijuria, Kashmira, Priya, Naina, Ajay, Sushil, Priti, and Ina. Indeed, there was a record turnout of non-Indians, from mounting publicity and interviews. Channel 39 News covered the event, and featured it on their Sunday evening prime time news. For stunning photos by Meedu Photography, Carlos Pena and Winston Hsu visit www.masalaradio.com, houstonholi.com, or facebook .com/ HoustonHoli. Edited Video compilation coming soon on YouTube under Houston Holi 2014.
HOROSCOPE
VOICE OF ASIA 26
FRIDAY, April 18, 2014
Your Horoscope for the Week of April 18, 2014 by Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950
As per Indian Vedic Astrology the Moon sign is considered, in which every Rashi has control over certain letters, which are initials of your name. Whereas in Western system of Sun Sign, all the people born in one month belong to the same sign. For example, every year approximately around 21 of March to 20th April, the Sun is moving in the Aries Constellation. So all the people born in that month belong to the Sign of Aries. If you were born in between those two dates then you are a Aries born.
READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM
Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April
Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct
Your careful research and caution make falling in love, dealing with children, or expressing a talent, secure areas of your life. Ideal financial conditions could seem elusive, right now. You may think that someone who should want to cooperate has undermined your position with a public event. Let others take the glory, if that is the issue. You may have other vegetable to cook and can go on to other projects with ease once you’re really willing to let go the present. The desire to clarify all matters and be involved in high-minded projects is worth all your effort.
Tread lightly on weakened personal & professional relationships. People at a distance may hurt your pride. Some may disapprove with your tactics, and will clearly let you know, how they feel. Don’t try to take on everybody by yourself. Group projects may require the use of kid gloves. Emotions & feelings will interfere with your ability to bring people closer together. You need to take a closer look in the mirror & face your own personal challenges. Recognize your abilities and follow your dreams.
Scorpio (N,Y)23 Oct to 21 Nov
Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May Some emotional meltdown, either yours or someone else’s, close to you. Use any stress reduction techniques you can, (Yoga, Meditation, “Om Namah Shivay” Chanting….) to help keep yourself cool. Take a break from what you’ve been doing, and check in with your partner before going any further. Language & communication are tools you can use with great skill and power. If others aren’t prepared to give you what you deserve, reach out and take it for yourself. Celebrate your genius, even if you have to do it alone.
Conserve your energy for important tasks to structure new public and career projects. Investments and gambles may not pay off. If you’ve recently been disappointed in romance, felt abandoned, you may act in a way that you’ll regret later. Organizational discussions may not go well, either. You may be tempted to say some things you’ll wish you hadn’t. Be objective and try to understand how others might react to your actions. Show your compassion and utilize your sense of humor.
Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec
Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June Trust your gut instincts & be aware of your own power and effectiveness. Some situations in your personal life may be trying, to say the least. Try not to let them to make you feel down. speak to someone impartial & get their perspective. Don’t allow expectations of family members to apply undue pressure on you. If you lose your focus, you could get careless. You will be effective in projects that you are able to promote on an international level. Partners/spouse could be important to the kind of success that will put your creative ideas on the map.
Nothing can stand between you and what you want. You have an exciting chance to express a more compassionate, caring and emotional part of yourself. You words will be well headed. Romance may sweep you off your feet, and you may feel loved and cared for. Emotional highs are certainly welcome. Find a way to create excitement in your social and public life. Enjoyment is key to the kind of work you can plan. You’ll be amazed by the amount of income potential, especially if it derives from partnership activities.
Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan
Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Communicate your plans & get started on your future agenda. This way, you’ll be able to put additional points in the bank and that will provide you with bigger dividends later on. Your creative fire will blaze brightly. This is a time of breakthrough and personal triumph. Experience is the best teacher for you right now. Take a risk if it will bring your dreams closer to coming true. A real commitment brings an instant return. Your stars show a ‘disappointment’ of some kind, possibly a schedule glitch and likely an elder or power person in the family ‘doing a change up on you’.
Keep yourself grounded & realistic. Don’t sell yourself short. You are in the company of people who think the world of you. You’ll regain a measure of control over your life by being more confident in who you are. Your behavior will be understood by those who know you and love you. Seek their help to get yourself back on track. Accepting help doesn’t mean that you’re doing a bad job on your own, everyone can always stand a little improvement in their methods. Reaching your goal is more important right now, than who helped the most to make it happen.
Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb
Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August
Your psychic energy will be very strong. Predictions can influence your current reality without really overriding it. You may think that you need to keep peace, at any price. Be willing to walk away from events that require any force. Lead the way by simply doing what you do best. Your ultimate stroke of charm is your ability to laugh at yourself. Just a few words from you can make all the difference to those you love. A partnership hinges not only on what is said, but on what is understood, as well.
Use your powers of persuasion to influence other’s ideas. Don’t be shy about expressing your opinions. Value the things that you have to offer to important public projects. Go full steam ahead with important projects, especially those that may lie at a distance from your present locale. There may be something you need to prove to yourself. Any work that you do now will be touched by your sincerity. Your present actions are destined to become the stuff that memories are made of.
Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March
Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Keep up with everyone else’s expectations. You may need to curb some activities so you don’t spread yourself too thin. Don’t get lazy at the wrong moment. Encourage your partners to go forward with exciting and challenging plans. Your home may be a haven that enables you to express the best of your ideas and intellect. Children & elder family members will require your attention. People will respond easily to you, and you’ll seem to have your finger on the pulse of the public. Ask for anything that you need to implement your tasks.
QR
You quest to attain perfection, or your own version of perfection. Just when you think you have the ability to control your own destiny, things will start to erode slightly. Prepare to deal with the consequences of getting involved in someone else’s personal problems. You may be driven you to take chances that you normally wouldn’t even consider, otherwise. Let your basic grasp of cause and effect be your guiding light, for the moment. The circular nature of events will shed light on your past mistakes.
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