Voice of Asia E Newspaper January 1 2016

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FRIDAY, January 1, 2016 YOUNG LIFE

Mark Zuckerberg urges free Internet in India

VOICE OF ASIA Beauty resolutions you can keep

No lovemaking scene in ‘Wazir’: Farhan Akhtar

28 years of dedicated service to the community

Toys can affect language learning

Say Goodbye to the Social Security ‘File-and-Suspend’ Strategy Read on Page 16 or Call 832-806-1000

Vol. 29 No. 1 Friday, January 1, 2016 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com

H.O.P.E Christmas

S

TAFFORD, TX - Heaven’s own Precious Eyes (HOPE) held their Christmas celebration 2015 on the evening of December 26 at the Immanuel Church here in Stafford, Texas.

The program was well attended by members of the church as well as of the community. Rev. Abraham Zachariah began the program with an opening prayer followed by the welcome speech by Monachan Thomas.

Bible lessons were read by Ruben Roy and Ashley Mathew, Christmas songs were played by both individuals and groups. Participants were both Malayalam and English choir of Immanuel Church, St. James Knanaya Church, St. Thomas Evangelical Church. An amazing performance by brothers Christopher and Chandler was a moving experience for all.

TOP: Young members of the IMTC junior Choir sing during the celebrations. Photo credit Johnson Varughese (JV) Photography.

Solo songs were sung by Emili Mathews, Faith Eapen, and Dave Kurian group. Christmas message was delivered by the Vicar St. Thomas CSI church, Houston. Mr. Abraham Samuel gave the Vote of Thanks.

LEFT: HOPE program - Christopher and Chandler, both brothers (older boys in suits) sing and dance with other children. Photo credit Johnson Varughese (JV) Photography.

Rev. Saju Mathew gave the benediction and everybody moved to the Immanuel center for dinner.

Sankara Eye Foundation Fundraiser for Hyderabad and Indore Hospitals

The Greatest Donation: The Gift of Vision

Dr. Radha Ramani, addressing the gathering on Dec. 20, 2015.

by Rishabh Nayak

H

OUSTON: December 20th, 2015 marked the date for Sankara Eye Foundation’s (SEF) 2nd annual gala to raise funds for two new Hospitals in Hyderabad, and Indore held at India House, Houston. With the gracious attendance of approximately 150 guests, the event emphasized the noble cause of providing vision, especially for the people from underprivileged backgrounds.

Read Report on Page 5

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Sankara Eye Foundation (SEF) Houston team with founding member and members of SEF. Photo by Nik Nikam.

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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

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VOICE OF ASIA Publisher:

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Austin Correspondent: Print & Media Marketing: Marketing:

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All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the consent of the publisher.

Voice of Asia assumes no liability resulting from action taken based on the information included herein. Published weekly by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713-7745143. Email for editorial submissions: voiceasia@aol.com; Email for advertising inquiries and submissions: ads@ voiceofasiagroup.com

Voice of Asia (USPS 010-215) (ISSN#10705058) is published every Friday (for a subscription rate of $30 per year) by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713774-5143. Periodical postage paid at Houston, Texas.

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It is the policy of Voice of Asia to publish letters to the editor which evidence a variety of viewpoints. The opinions expressed in any particular letter to the editor are not necessarily those of the management. Voice of Asia welcomes letters in reply to issues raised in letters to editor. In as much letters to the editor are not articles written or researched by members of Voice of Asia, it is not the policy of the Voice of Asia to perform any investigation or confirmation of any facts or allegations contained in letters to the editor. Moreover, Voice of Asia reserves the right to edit letters to the editor as necessary to correct errors of fact, punctuation, spelling and to comply with space constraints.

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by Keith Chow n a New York Times oped over the weekend, Malaysian talk radio host Umapagan Ampikaipakan called into question the entire concept of an “Asian superhero.” As an Asian person who has invested quite a lot in the idea of Asian superheroes, you can imagine seeing such a piece in the paper of record left me a bit bewildered — especially because this was the year that comics featuring Asian and AsianAmerican heroes had finally broken through.

Marvel Comics famously published “Ms. Marvel” starring Pakistani American Kamala Khan and “Silk” with Korean American Cindy Moon, and just this month, longtime sidekick Amadeus Cho graduated to lead hero status as the new Totally Awesome Hulk. Moreover, two of Image Comics’ highest profile titles in 2015 were “RunLoveKill” by Jon Tsuei and Eric Canete and “Monstress” by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda — both books featuring all-Asian lead characters and all-Asian creative teams.

And, for the last year and a half, I’ve been advocating for Marvel Studios to cast an Asian American actor as the lead for its upcoming Iron Fist series on Netflix, a cause that has been gaining steam in recent weeks. Perhaps Ampikaipakan’s editorial is the beginning of the backlash?

The main thrust of Ampikaipakan’s op-ed is that the comic book superhero is a wholly American invention that upholds ideals and values like truth, justice, and the American way. This is not untrue. Characters like Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman have transcended their pulpy roots to become the closest thing Americans have to homegrown mythology. I mean, there’s a reason why these heroes all wear spandex in the primary colors of red, white, and blue.

Ampikaipakan also asserts that any time other cultures have tried to mimic American superheroes, they ultimately fail. More than that, he specifically calls out the failure of Asian superheroes, pointing to Japanese manga as being nothing more than derivative and, in the pro-

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The ‘Asian Superhero’ Is Not An Oxymoron cess, completely dismissing the work and influence of legends like Go Nagai and Osamu Tezuka.

But it’s telling that “Astro Boy” and “Devilman,” the examples of American comic book “rip-offs” Ampikaipakan cites, are 60-plus and 40plus years old, respectively.

I’m assuming he has also never seen “Sailor Moon” or “Gatchaman” or “Super Sentai” — known in the U.S. as “Power Rangers” — or “Dragonball Z” — which itself is an adaptation of one of the most “Asian-y” superheroes of all time: the Monkey King.

His lack of knowledge about manga notwithstanding, Ampikaipakan can be given the benefit of the doubt if he were simply pointing out differences between American and non-American concepts of “superheroes.”

Where he missteps, though, is the assumption that the American-ness of superhero mythology is indistinguishable from whiteness.

“I suppose the current push to draw diversity into comics and add variety to the canon is meant to reinforce the notion that anyone can be a superhero. But that only risks undercutting the genre’s universal appeal,” he writes. According to Ampikaipakan, superheroes are only “universal” if they’re white. And male. And straight. Because black Captain America, female Thor, and gay Iceman represent a push for diversity that simply “doesn’t make sense.”

The idea that straight white males are the center of the universe not only permeates comics; it’s an idea that drives most of pop culture and it’s why a push for diversity is necessary in the first place.

Here’s the thing: superheroes aren’t the sole domain of white people. And they haven’t been for quite some time, despite what some might think. Take the “original superhero,” born in 1938 from the minds and pencils of Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster, who happened to be sons of Jewish immigrants: Superman’s adventures in Action Comics was the source code for all superheroes to follow.

With his flowing red cape and perfectly coiffed spit curl, Superman is the embodiment of the American ideal. But if you take a closer look, Clark Kent’s origin story parallels the experiences of many immigrants to the United States.

And as an Asian American, those parallels are too powerful to ignore.

Coincidentally, Ampikaipakan derisively refers to Kamala Khan’s storyline in “Ms. Marvel” as “merely another retelling of the classic American immigrant experience,” and therefore not worthy of the universality of the superhero archetype. I guess immigrant experiences only matter so long as the immigrant isn’t brown.

And that’s the main problem with the op-ed’s entire thesis. As someone who lives outside the United States and is unaware — or at least, unconcerned — with the racial and cultural dynamics within American society, Ampikaipakan’s opinion that “the Asian comic superhero is a contradiction in terms” holds little weight in the discourse around why media representation matters. It’s a mentality that Hollywood uses to falsely propagate the assumption that films and shows starring people of color will not perform well overseas, despite

Silk - Marvel introduces first female Asian-American superhero.

Credit Marvel

evidence of the contrary.

In a New York Times op-ed over the weekend, Malaysian talk radio host Umapagan Ampikaipakan called into question the entire concept of an “Asian superhero.” As an Asian person who has invested quite a lot in the idea of Asian superheroes, you can imagine seeing such a piece in the paper of record left me a bit bewildered — especially because this was the year that comics featuring Asian and Asian-American heroes had finally broken through.

Marvel Comics famously published “Ms. Marvel” starring Pakistani American Kamala Khan and “Silk” with Korean American Cindy Moon, and just this month, longtime sidekick Amadeus Cho graduated to lead hero status as the new Totally Awesome Hulk. Moreover, two of Image Comics’ highest profile titles in 2015 were “RunLoveKill” by Jon Tsuei and Eric Canete and “Monstress”

by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda — both books featuring all-Asian lead characters and all-Asian creative teams.

And, for the last year and a half, I’ve been advocating for Marvel Studios to cast an Asian American actor as the lead for its upcoming Iron Fist series on Netflix, a cause that has been gaining steam in recent weeks. Perhaps Ampikaipakan’s editorial is the beginning of the backlash?

The main thrust of Ampikaipakan’s op-ed is that the comic book superhero is a wholly American invention that upholds ideals and values like truth, justice, and the American way. This is not untrue. Characters like Superman, Wonder Woman, and Batman have transcended their pulpy roots to become the closest thing Americans have to homegrown mythology. I mean, there’s a reason why these heroes all wear spandex in the primary colors of red, white, and blue.

Ampikaipakan also asserts that any time other cultures have tried to mimic American superheroes, they ultimately fail. More than that, he specifically calls out the failure of Asian superheroes, pointing to Japanese manga as being nothing more than derivative and, in the process, completely dismissing the work and influence of legends like Go Nagai and Osamu Tezuka.

But it’s telling that “Astro Boy” and “Devilman,” the examples of American comic book “rip-offs” Ampikaipakan cites, are 60-plus and 40plus years old, respectively.

I’m assuming he has also never seen “Sailor Moon” or “Gatchaman” or “Super Sentai” — known in the U.S. as “Power Rangers” — or “Dragonball Z” — which itself is an adaptation of one of the most “Asian-y” superheroes of all time: the Monkey King.

His lack of knowledge about manga notwithstanding, Ampikaipakan can be given the benefit of the doubt if he were simply pointing out differences between American and non-American concepts of “superheroes.”

Where he missteps, though, is the assumption that the American-ness of superhero mythology is indistinguishable from whiteness.

“I suppose the current push

to draw diversity into comics and add variety to the canon is meant to reinforce the notion that anyone can be a superhero. But that only risks undercutting the genre’s universal appeal,” he writes. According to Ampikaipakan, superheroes are only “universal” if they’re white. And male. And straight. Because black Captain America, female Thor, and gay Iceman represent a push for diversity that simply “doesn’t make sense.”

The idea that straight white males are the center of the universe not only permeates comics; it’s an idea that drives most of pop culture and it’s why a push for diversity is necessary in the first place.

Here’s the thing: superheroes aren’t the sole domain of white people. And they haven’t been for quite some time, despite what some might think. Take the “original superhero,” born in 1938 from the minds and pencils of Jerry Seigel and Joe Shuster, who happened to be sons of Jewish immigrants: Superman’s adventures in Action Comics was the source code for all superheroes to follow.

Image: A rare copy of Action Comics #1 – which features the first appearance of Superman – sold for a jawdropping $3.2 million on eBay A rare copy of Action Comics #1 – which features the first appearance of Superman – in near perfect condition, sold for a jaw-dropping $3.2 million on eBay, making it the most expensive comic in the world. eBay With his flowing red cape and perfectly coiffed spit curl, Superman is the embodiment of the American ideal. But if you take a closer look, Clark Kent’s origin story parallels the experiences of many immigrants to the United States.

And as an Asian American, those parallels are too powerful to ignore.

Coincidentally, Ampikaipakan derisively refers to Kamala Khan’s storyline in “Ms. Marvel” as “merely another retelling of the classic American immigrant experience,” and therefore not worthy of the universality of the superhero archetype. I guess immigrant experiences only matter so long as the immigrant isn’t brown.

And that’s the main problem with the op-ed’s entire thesis. As someone who lives outside the United States and is unaware — or at least, unconcerned — with the racial and cultural dynamics within American society, Ampikaipakan’s opinion that “the Asian comic superhero is a contradiction in terms” holds little weight in the discourse around why media representation matters. It’s a mentality that Hollywood uses to falsely propagate the assumption that films and shows starring people of color will not perform well overseas, despite evidence of the contrary.

Which brings me back to the idea of an Asian American Iron Fist: maybe all of the arguments we’ve made for why an Asian-American character can and should exhibit all of the traits of a traditional (read: white) superhero touched a nerve. Maybe somebody will point to this op-ed and say, “See, Asians can’t be superheroes.”

VOICE OF ASIA 3

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

VOICE OF ASIA

Second Front Page

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Tel: 713-774-5140

www.voiceofasiaonline.com

AVANCE Board Holiday Luncheon Unveils Vision 2025 Report

Jeimmy Monjaraz-AVANCE Graduate

A

VANCE Houston hosted its annual Board of Directors Holiday Luncheon on December 9th to celebrate and recognize the board for successfully leading the leading the organization another year. The event’s major highlight this year was the unveiling of AVANCE’s Vision 2025 report; developed by education leaders in the community along with the board and leadership staff.

Over 100 guests joined the luncheon at Rice University, and enjoyed a presentation by the university’s sociology professor and expert in demographics, Dr. Stephen Klineberg, who provided an informative and insightful seminar about Houston’s expected growth, social economic changes and the role AVANCE plays in helping develop a stronger city.

Dr. David Vassar, AVANCE board member and chair of the Vision 2025 committee expressed that after brainstorming for a year, the group determined that AVANCE will focus on three main strategies: Direct Services, Collaborative Strategies and Advocacy, with the ultimate goal of serving an additional 15,000 families over the next 10 years.

“This report was drafted with the input of community leaders who believe that strengthening families is Houston’s Window to the Future.

We were very fortunate to have two experts from Rice University; Dr. Vassar and Dr. Klineberg provide insights in order to establish our goals.” Said José Villarreal, AVANCE executive director.

The committee agrees that to maximize educational achievement

for young children AVANCE should expand and continue with its parent engagement model that focuses on educating both parents and children simultaneously.

AVANCE graduate Jeimmy Monjaraz shared her experience and demonstrated how her life has improved due to the opportunity she was given to learn English, take Healthy Marriage, Parenting, and GED classes, while her children attended Head Start programs. Upon completing the GED program in 2012, AVANCE awarded Jeimmy a college scholarship, donated by the Macy’s Foundation.

Today, Jeimmy is close to completing her Associates degree with a 3.9 GPA at Houston Community College; her plan is to earn a Bachelors degree in Accounting.

Jeimmy’s story gave the audience a sense of gratification, and the event concluded with a “thank you” video for the board members, on behalf of the AVANCE children.

Board members welcomed the Vision 2025 report and are ready to begin implementing the three strategies in 2016.

Two lucky raffle winners also walked away with round-trip tickets donated by United Airlines; who also sponsored the celebration.

AVANCE’s next major fundraising event is the Annual Luncheon to be held at the Hilton Houston Post Oak on March 11, 2016, featuring keynote speaker John Quiñones from the ABC national TV show: What Would You Do? About AVANCE: AVANCE is a United Way serving over 7,000 par-

L-R: Dr. Stephen Klineberg-Rice University Sociology Professor, Olga Rodriguez –Chairwoman-AVANCE National, Luz Flores-AVANCE Deputy Director, Jose Villarreal-AVANCE Executive Director

Standing: Dr. Vanitha Pothuri, Koshy Thomas, Surender Talwar, AVANCE Board Members and sitting are Pete Garcia (bottom right) and AVANCE supporter.

ticipants annually in 21 locations throughout Houston.

Services: Parent-Child Education Program (PCEP), Head Start, Early Head Start, Healthy Marriage, Fatherhood, ESL, Computer Literacy,

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AVANCE mission: Unlocking America’s potential by strengthen-

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For more information: Janet Deleon jdeleon@avancehouston.org www.avancehouston.org

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VOICE OF ASIA 4

Dr Savitri Iyer Promoted to Deputy Division Head and Director

The People’s Lawyer www.peopleslawyer.net Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center

D

Be careful if you give your credit card to a friend Q. A little less than a year ago I let a former friend use my credit card to buy a new tire. I couldn’t go with her, so I just told her to take the card and have them call me if there were any issues. No one called, so I assumed it all went well.

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Dr Savitri K Iyer

I saw her the next day at church and asked her how it went and she confessed to me that instead of getting one tire they talked her in to all four. I didn’t know how to react or if to even cry, because at that time my personal car needed new tires and she practically maxed out my credit card. I told her she would have to pay me back ASAP because it would affect my credit. Next month she deposited $70 into my account, and since then has paid nothing.

Now my credit card company charging late fees and interest. Do I owe this money? What can I do to get her to pay me ASAP?

r Savitri K Iyer is Professor Department of Pathology at MD Anderson and serves as Vice-Chair Institutional Review Board (IRB) has been promoted to Deputy Division Head and Director She has written and published several research articles including the highest ranking journals and in the past was Fellow Oncologic Pathology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, Research fellow and Resident, Anatomic and Clinical Pathology, New England Medical Center, Boston, MA, Department of Pathology, She has also won the best Doctor Award for Patient care services and is a Gold Medalist from India.

A. Letting another person use your credit card can be dangerous. As far as the law is concerned, when you give someone your credit card to use you generally are responsible for whatever they charge, even if it is in excess of what you agree to. You may have agreed that your friend would buy just one tire, but that agreement is between you and your friend, not the credit card company. You should not entrust your credit card to anyone, unless you are willing to be responsible for whatever they purchase.

You do, however, have a claim against her for the full amount she charged. But forcing her to pay you back ASAP will be difficult. The best immediate solution is to convince her to promptly reimburse you, or begin substantial partial payments. If she does not, your only legal remedy is a suit in justice court. Justice court is the real people’s court and it does process claims quickly, but you are looking at several months before any suit is resolved, and if she disputes your claim it could take much longer.

More importantly, even after you win in court collecting what you are owed can be difficult. The court will award a judgment in your favor that can be filed, but you them must begin collection efforts. In Texas, most of what a person owns is “exempt” and not subject to the judgment. For example, you cannot garnish wages or take most personal property or a home. One option is to garnish a bank account, if you know where she banks. To see what options you have after winning in court, and how to collect, look at the debt collection section on my website, www.peopleslawyer.net.

Q. You have written that I get up to three times my damages if someone violates the Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. Can I sue for these damages without an attorney in justice court?

A. The Texas Deceptive Trade Practices Act is our state’s consumer protection law. As I have written in the past, this law protects you if you are misled or deceived, or if there is a breach of warranty or unconscionability.

Under the Deceptive Trade Practices Act, you are entitled to recover your economic damage plus up to three times your damages if you show the person acted “knowingly.” This means that the person knew or should have known he was acting wrongfully. For example, if someone makes an innocent misrepresentation, you are not entitled to three times your damages. On the other hand, if the person knew or should have known that what he said was false, the court could award additional damages. Any court, including justice court, may award what is usually referred to as “treble damages.” If you prove your case and show that the person acted “knowingly,” the justice in small claims court may award you treble damages.

Q. Is an oral lease valid? My landlord says it is not. He now wants to raise my rent, and increase the security deposit.

A. As a general rule, agreements dealing with real estate, including a lease, must be in writing to be enforceable. Under Texas law, however, a residential lease for a year or less does not have to be in writing to be valid. If you have an oral lease for a year or less it is as binding as a written one. Of course, you must prove the existence of the agreement and its terms.

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VOICE OF ASIA 5

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Sankara Eye Foundation.....cont.

The Greatest Donation: The Gift of Vision

Murali Krishnamurthy, CEO (SEF), USA, welcoming the Chief Guests at the SEF Fundraiser.

Continued from page 1 Guests were humbly welcomed by the assiduous Rajender Aparasu after they enjoyed a delicious platter of appetizers and drinks during the social hour. After an invocation prayer by the Swaramadhuri Group, the Chief Guests of the evening, Dr. R.V. Ramani and his wife Dr. Radha Ramani, Mr. Murali Krishnamurthy were honored with bouquets of flowers. Noted Cardiologist Dr. Nik Nikam, moved the audience by bringing awareness to the difficulties of being visually impaired. He described how challenging it is to merely describe in words the Indian sweet Gulab Jamun, a picture of mountain peaks, and other day to day activities to individuals that are unable to visualize them. Dr. Nikam’s talk touched the hearts of the entire audience and urged them to donate for this wonderful cause, a “Gift of Vision”. He assured the audience that even a small

donation of $30 can sponsor an individual’s eyesight.

Mr. Murali Krishnamurthy, CEO (SEF), USA, was welcomed to the dais to share his journey with Sankara Eye Foundation. He described how his uncle encouraged him to become a part of the movement of providing vision to the world. Along with his inspiring uncle, a tribute was given to the ways and teachings of Swami Vivekananda that provided clarity to Krishnamurthy’s life.

Mr. Krishnamurthy announced that SEF has successfully carried out over 1.3 million free surgeries while becoming the largest eye care provider in the world. He also stated the goal of SEF to provide 20/20 vision to all of India by the year 2020. With a pleasing rendition of “Jyot Se Jyot Jalate Chalo,” Mr. Krishnamurthy sang the much appropriate song to conclude his speech. The CEO of SEF, USA, also thanked the

A section of the audience at the SEF fundraiser on dec. 20, 2015 at the India House. Photo Credits: Roy Photography, Nik Nikam, Damodhara Jammili. guests and the Houston team of volunteers for their hard work.

Mr. Krishnamurthy welcomed the Chief Guests Dr. R.V. Ramani and his wife Dr. Radha Ramani to the podium.

The founders of Sankara Eye Foundation, the dedicated husband and wife team, expressed how this charitable movement started. Sankara was founded in 1977 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India by this visionary couple. Dr. Ramani went on to describe that 80% of blindness in India is curable and SEF strives to eradicate this problem with free, state of the art eye care for the underprivileged in rural India. They started many programs through Sankara Eye Foundation such as the Gift of Vision Program (rural outreach program), Rainbow Program (school screening program), Swagatham (neonatal screening program), Maitri (screen-

ing program for preschoolers), an Eye Bank (which receives a pair of eyes everyday), and the Sankara Academy of Vision in Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.

Both the founders described what sets SEF apart from other eye care providers, including that it is a 38-year-old charitable eye care trust, that has become the largest charitable eye care institution in the developing world. SEF, India carries out over 500 free surgeries daily in rural India. Dr. R.V. Ramani’s and Dr. Radha Ramani’s goal is to establish 20 state of the art and fully functional eye care Hospitals all over India with the support of its Chapters, Volunteers, and generous donors.

various SEF hospitals around India. From transportation, to detailed explanation of the type of care, delicious food, and medications, SEF provides all of these facilities free of charge to underprivileged, visually impaired individuals.

Following the Chief Guests Speech, a short film displaying first hand testimonials of patients at SEF highlighted the comprehensive care at the

The bighearted Houstonians helped in raising close to $20,000 in donations with more flowing in everyday. To recognize the generous donors,

The mouth watering Hyderbadi buffet was provided by Mayuri Restaurant. During dinner the guests enjoyed the melodic, energetic, and popular songs of the Swaramadhuri Group. To complement this Group and the entire event, the audio-visual setup was sponsored by Nayak Productions, LLC providing the perfect ambiance for the Chief Guests, audience, singers, and volunteers.

the Chief Guests, Volunteers, Sponsors, and Media partners, Mr. Raghavender Nednur offered a sincere vote of thanks.

He especially thanked all the SEF Houston team and volunteers for putting this event together in less than 3 weeks.

The enthusiastic members of Sankara Eye Foundation Houston and its team of volunteers were the key to the success of this charitable event.

Sankara Eye foundation would like to encourage all of the Houstonians to keep an eye out for the future events by the SEF Houston team. Some of the events planned by SEF Houston are Raas Garba, Dandiya, and a large scale Superstar Celebrity Musical Concert.

Make a difference and become a part of the SEF family by reaching out to the foundation at www.giftofvision.org.

SANKARA EYE HOSPITAL, Hyderabad Help bring vision to needy in Hyderabad, Telangana Double your Donation An anonymous donor is challenging all our donors with a matching donation of $1 Million towards hospital construction Please donate before December 31, 2015 to avail of this generous offer

www.giftofvision.org/donate 1-866-SANKARA

Become a founding donor with $1000 donation

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 6

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Ring in 2016 Voice of Sanatan Hinduism He Crow Collection Of

Asian Art Celebrates The Year Of The Monkey

Tune in 1110 AM KTEK Voice of Sanatan Hinduism” will be On Air from 3rd January 2016 and broadcast every Sunday on Radio Dial 1110 AM KTEK from 12 Noon to 2pm.

“

The first of its kind Hinduism radio program will now be presented with New Energy and New Voices. This will bring to the Greater Houston Community a New Experience in the New Year. Sanatan Hindu Center sponsored Radio program will be Co-Sponsored by Sri Meenakshi Temple Society and Hindus of Greater Houston. Listeners can tune in every Sunday to Voice of Sanatan Hinduism that will now broadcast at the same station as Music Masala Radio.

Starting this New Year, every Sunday this Radio Show will feature interesting quizzes, interactive and enlightening segments to celebrate the beauty of Hinduism. The highlights include Young-Quest, Festive Time, Music Melody, Dhruv Tara Quizzes, Bhagwad Githa, Temple News, Yoga, Ayurveda, Homeopathy, Sri Meenakshi Temple segment, In-Quest of Hinduism, Local Events, and Hindus of Greater Houston’s World Hindu News.

Nearly 20 years ago Padmakant Khambhati started the radio program to showcase the doctrines of Hinduism by sharing Vedic knowledge and share it on public media.

Thara Narasimhan and Geetha Ravula will host the radio program. Additionally guest hosts Vishwesh Shukla and Sri Ravula will join in to present the program periodically. Rakesh Parikh will provide the technical support for the radio show, website and 24/7 online radio @ www.sanatanhinducenter.org. Listeners can

With spectacular street festival in the dallas arts district saturday, february 13, 2016 Free, family-friendly event to feature cultural performances, martial arts demonstrations, art activities, live music, food trucks, fireworks, tours and more

D

ALLAS (December 22, 2015) – Celebrate the Year of the Monkey as the Crow Collection of Asian Art presents its 17th annual free Chinese New Year Festival Saturday, February 13, 2016, from 11:00 a.m. – 7:30 p.m. in the heart of the Dallas Arts District.

“Voice of Sanatan Hinduism” hosts Thara Narasimhan (left) and Geetha Ravula. tune in 24 hrs.

The Radio show will feature special guest interviews, talk show on matter of importance to Hindu Community as well as interviews of heads of all Hindu temples in the Greater Houston Area. The Radio Show will create an opportunity for Hindu Temples and Organizations in the Greater Houston Area to connect with community at large. The Young-Quest segment will be an interactive platform for various heritage schools in Houston to showcase their program and share their heritage experience. Unique talents like Sloka recitation and Sloka-thon will be presented in this segment.

Ms Thara Narasimhan, Secretary to Hindus of Greater Houston and one of hosts serving Voice of Sanatan Hinduism for more than 10 years stated that “Sanathan Dharma relevance to Music begins from the origins of music that can be traced to “ Sama Veda” , the oldest ancient core of Hindu scriptures. Tune into Voice of Sanatan Hinduism as we bring both the sacred recitation of Vedas and divine music.”

Sanatan Hindu Center’s pres-

ident Mr Kanti Patel said “I am extremely happy to see the Voice of Sanatan Hinduism is moving forward with positive energy and enthusiasm”.

Ms Geetha Ravula, founder of Ashirwad iLifestyle class and Vedic Fair, who will be joining as new host said “I am excited to join the team to share and celebrate the beauty of Sanatan Dharma with Greater Houston listeners.”

She said “Let’s together enjoy soul soothing melodious songs, learn the significance and science behind heritage practices and get inspired by sharing the stories of phenomenal people who walked the path of Dharma and paved us the way. Let us together walk towards Light in the Light of Sanatan Dharma. “ Kalpavalli Patel, daughter of Late Padmakant Khambhati and Secretary to Sanatan Hindu Center gave a statement that “Voice of Sanatan Hinduism Radio Program, the only program since 1993 has endeavored to present Vedic Dharma in Houston. This was Padmakant Khambhati’s passion and vision to present Sanatan Hinduism. His courage and convictions made it possible to have this type of program available

to the people and youth of our current times. We are continuing his lifelong passion and dream.”

The radio show is supported by sponsors, donors and heritage lovers. Donations are tax deductible and can be made online on website. Sanatan Hindu Center endeavors to improve the program with your suggestions, participation and serve to the interest of all age groups. Please contact via email: hinduismradio@gmail. com. Donations can also be sent to Sanatan Hindu Center, 603 Doscher Lane, Sugarland, Texas 77479.

The Sanatan Hindu Center also provides Funeral services in Hindu Traditions. Currently Sanatan Hindu Center President is Mr Kanti Patel, its Secretary is Ms Kalpavalli Patel and Mr Rakesh Parikh is the Treasurer.

“

Dharmo Rakshathi Rakshithah.” – “When we protect Dharma, Dharma will protect us”.

In celebration of this ancient Chinese tradition, the Crow Collection of Asian Art’s signature event expands across Flora and Harwood Streets featuring an array of specialty booths, wellness activities, must-see entertainment and cultural performances. “Our annual Chinese New Year Festival continues to grow every year,” says Crow Collection of Asian Art Executive Director Amy Lewis Hofland. “We are proud to present what has become the largest Chinese New Year Celebration in the southern United States, bringing not-only the Dallas-Fort Worth Asians communities, but also a broad cross-section from all of Dallas’ rich cultural backgrounds.

This event has developed to a point that we are drawing visitors from Houston, Austin and beyond. We are looking forward to another incredible day of celebration.”

Highlights include traditional Chinese New Year art-making activities such as decorating red envelopes, and making monkey masks and glowing paper lanterns, plus calligraphy demonstrations, face painting, fortune telling, photo booth and family yoga. Also, there will be a diverse assortment of food trucks including Bobaddiction, Bombay Chopstix, Simply Dosa, and Nammi, and for the third year in a row, there will be an exclusive VIP hospitality lounge available for Friends of

the Crow Collection.

Main Stage Highlights Watch the stylistic movements of a Kung Fu demonstration and two lion and dragon dance performances to bring good luck and fortune into the New Year.

Incorporating classical music found throughout China as well as exquisite costumes and clothing, the HappyFeet Dance School & Performance brings grace and charm to the main stage.

Experience a special performance by the Jasmines Dance Troupe, a group of talented dancers who specialize in Chinese classical and folk dance.

Enjoy an incredible performance by Chinese magician Ben Tsao.

Delight in the skill and grace of the Chinese Yo-Yo Club as they demonstrate their art form for the first time on our stage.

Enjoy the sounds of the UTD Chinese Student Union as they perform classical Chinese music a cappella.

Become enchanted as the Dallas Asian American Youth Orchestra performs their charming blend of Western traditional classical and Eastern Asian music.

Don’t miss an unforgettable grand finale fireworks show.

Visit crowcollection.org for the most up-to-date schedule of events and performances.

This event is free and open to the public. All announcements will be made in Mandarin Chinese and English. In the event of inclement weather, some activities may be canceled or moved indoors. To register for the event or for membership information, please go to crowcollection.org or call 214-9796430.

VOICE OF ASIA 7

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

SANKARA EYE HOSPITAL, Indore Help bring vision to needy in Indore, Madhya Pradesh Double your Donation An anonymous donor is challenging all our donors with a matching donation of $1 Million towards hospital construction Please donate before December 31, 2015 to avail of this generous offer

Become a founding donor with $1000 donation

www.giftofvision.org/donate

1-866-SANKARA

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 8

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

ICC and India House Houston Partnership - A Vision and a Hope

India House building in Houston. File photo.

by Lachhman Das ICC Trustee and India House Board Member

I

ndia Culture Center (ICC) and India House (IH) are two of the most unique Indo-American community organizations in the Metropolitan Houston Area.

These are the only two organizations that represent all of India, not just any one particular region of India. In addition, IHI has also extended its mission to serve the needs of the main stream Greater Houston Area communities.

As most long- term Houstonians know, the establishment of an Indo-American Community Center had been one of the primary goals of ICC. It was enshrined in its constitution and bylaws since 1973, the year of its creation. In relentless pursuit of this goal, and after many years of ups and downs, finally in the year 2000, ICC purchased the land on which the current India House Building stands. However, due to ICC’s many other community activities and for practical and economic reasons, an independent organization, India House Inc. (IHI), had to be formed in July 2002, for the express purpose of building and running the India House Building. As a result, ICC officially transferred the land title to IHI in July 2003 and the India House Building Project took off.

As usually happens during any structural changes in organizations, ICC and IHI had to work out the details about their mutual continuing relationship. This generated a certain amount of tension between the two organizations, during the initial period of transition. But slowly and surely, the spirit of partnership began to take hold.

On January 26, 2005, IH and ICC jointly organized a major event of groundbreaking for

the India House Building and the 55th anniversary of India’s Republic Day, an annual signature event of ICC. However, this noble effort of joint celebrations remained somewhat lukewarm for years, although the leaders in both the organizations continued their efforts to forge a lasting unity. Fortunately, the initial difficulties were amicably resolved and a final Agreement was signed between the two organizations in 2011. Since then, the two entities have been consistently taking steps to forge a solid partnership and are NOW actively working hand-in-hand in carrying out most community service activities. In this regard, it is heartwarming to note the following additional concrete actions: • ICC now has an office in the India House Building.

• ICC holds its monthly meetings at the India House Building.

• The Annual Diwali functions are being held jointly by ICC and IHI in the India House Building. The most recent such highly successful joint Diwali Celebration, with cultural program and dinner, was held on November 1, 205 • Along with other major Houston Area Organizations, India House Inc. (IHI), is also now one of the Partnering Organizations of ICC. • IHI leaders are actively participating in ICC’s major functions such as Celebration of India’s Independence Day and Republic Day, every year.

• Likewise, ICC leaders are also actively participating in IHI events such as India House Annual Gala, Flag Hoisting Ceremony on India’s Independence Day, Hosting the visits of various dignitaries, to name a few events.

• When requested, ICC always provides a free booth to IHI during its signature events, currently held at the new Stafford Civic Center.

• Several of the IHI leaders have received ICC’s Community Service Awards.

• Space permitting, almost all of the ICC functions are now held in the India House Building.

• For the present, ICC’s two annual signature events—Celebration of India’s Independence Day (India Fest) and India’s Republic Day (India Fair) cannot be held in the India House Building, due to the unavailability of large indoor area required

by ICC for these two functions. However, it is fervently hoped that as India House Building‘s future expansion plans materialize, these two functions will also shift to the India House Building.

In this spirit of continuing cooperation and coordination, I envision that the current and future leaderships of both ICC and IHI will continue to get together to expand their partnership, with the following goals in mind: • ICC should, always hold all its functions and conduct all its activities at the India House Building and/or grounds, whenever possible, and nowhere else.

• ICC and IHI leadership should always make it a point to actively participate, both financially and physically, in each other’s functions such as India’s Independence Day and Republic Day Celebrations, the Annual India House Gala event, etc.

• IHI should count on, and receive ICC’s manpower support in promoting and executing all its functions and activities.

• All the Board and Council Members of India House, Inc. should also become paying members of ICC. Correspondingly, all the Board Members and Trustees of ICC should provide financial support to IHI during India House Gala and by becoming the IHI’s Council Members, and Board Members, if possible.

• Both the organizations should cosponsor as many community events as possible.

• The Greater Houston area indo-American community should feel that both the organizations are working

hand-in-glove with each other to provide better service to the community.

• The goal of both the organizations should be to unite the community by pooling the resources of all major Indo-American organizations for the common good and common purpose.

• Both the organizations should be in the forefront in coordinating responses to major disasters locally and internationally. The money collected by individual organization should not be advertised as individual contributions,

but collective contributions.

community

• Although it appears far-fetched at this time, it is not hard to imagine and accept that ICC’s soul lives in the body of the India House Building. Perhaps, due to the realization of this concept of the spirit of cooperation and understanding, some of the leaders in both the organizations have privately expressed their wishful desires that the two organizations should ultimately merge.

And this is my vision and my hope for the future

January 5, 2016 Marks Birth Anniversary of Paramahansa Yogananda – Father of Yoga In The West tation. His challenges and accomplishments are detailed in his bestselling book Autobiography of a Yogi and brought to life on the big screen with the award-winning documentary film AWA K E : The Life of Yogananda.

Today, his Kriya Yoga teachings are widely studied and practiced around

Paramahansa Yogananda

“

Ask yourself what is the purpose of your life,” counsels world spiritual teacher Paramahansa Yogananda in his book How to be Victorious in Life. “You have been made in the image of God; that is your real Self. Realizing the image of God within you is the ultimate success—infinite joy, fulfillment of every desire, victory over all difficulties of the body and incursions of the world.”

Widely regarded as the father of Yoga in the West, Paramahansa Yogananda devoted his life to teaching Western audiences the techniques of yoga medi-

the world.

Sri Yogananda was born Mukunda Lal Ghosh on January 5, 1893 in Gorakhpur, India. From his earliest years it was evident to those around him that his awareness and experience of the spiritual was far beyond the ordinary.

As a youth he sought out many of India’s saints and philosophers, hoping to find an illumined teacher to guide him in his spiritual quest. In 1910, at the age of 17, he met the revered Indian sage Swami Sri Yukteswar, in whose hermitage

he spent the better part of the next ten years. After graduating from Calcutta University in 1915, he became a monk of India’s venerable monastic Swami Order, at which time he received the name Yogananda (signifying bliss, ananda, through divine union, yoga).

Paramahansaji began his life’s work with the founding, in 1917, of a “how-to-live” school, where modern educational methods were combined with yoga training and instruction in spiritual ideals. Visiting the school in 1925, Mahatma Gandhi wrote: “This institution has greatly impressed my mind.”

Mahatma Gandhi and Sri Yogananda met a decade afterwards when the latter made a re­turn visit to India in 1935– 36, after first touring parts of Europe and the Middle East.

While in India, he spent some time with Gandhi. At the Mahatma’s re­quest, Sri Yogananda in­structed him and several of his followers in the spiritual science of Kriya Yoga.

Sri Yogananda’s arrival in the U.S. from his native India in 1920 -- when he was invited to serve as a delegate to the International Congress of Religious Liberals convening in Boston -- marked the beginning of an upsurge in the West in the spiritual wisdom of the East. That

same year he founded Self-Realization Fellowship to disseminate worldwide his teachings on India’s ancient philosophy of Yoga and its time-honored science of meditation.

In 1925, Sri Yogananda took up residence in Los Angeles where he established an international headquarters for his society. Over the next decade he traveled and lectured extensively, speaking to capacity audiences in major cities throughout North America and Europe.

To the tens of thousands of Westerners who attended his lectures, his discourses on the unity of original Christianity as taught by Jesus Christ and original Yoga as taught by Bhagavan Krishna were a revelation.

During his 32 years of public ministry in America and abroad, Paramahansa Yogananda devoted himself to fostering greater harmony and cooperation among all religions, races, and nationalities; and to helping people realize and express more fully in their lives the beauty, nobility, and divinity of the human spirit. He brought knowledge of Yoga and meditation to millions of men and women, not only through his public lectures and classes, but also through his writings and the centers he established in countries around the world.

Autobiography of a Yogi,

Sri Yogananda’s life story, was published in 1946 and expanded by him in subsequent editions. Recognized from the beginning as a landmark work in its field, the book has been in print continuously since its initial publication more than sixty years ago. Honored as one of the 100 best spiritual books of the 20th century, it remains one of the most important, and most readable, works on Yoga and Eastern spiritual thought.

Among his other published works are The Second Coming of Christ, God Talks with Arjuna: The Bhagavad Gita, Wine of the Mystic: A Spiritual Interpretation, a three-volume anthology series (Collected Talks and Essays on Realizing God in Daily Life), two collections of poetry and prayer, and numerous volumes of spiritual counsel.

The sage advice put forth in his writings has served as a guide for millions through the last century. In Whispers from Eternity, Paramahansa Yogananda writes, “Let the ugliness of unkindness in others impel me to make myself beautiful with loving-kindness.

May harsh speech from my companions remind me to use sweet words always.”

From exercising compassion to reaching success, Sri Yogananda’s teachings are appli-

cable to everyday life. In Law of Success, he offers advice for achieving happiness. He writes, “In order to be happy one should have good health, a well-balanced mind, a prosperous life, the right work, a thankful heart, and above all, wisdom or knowledge of God.” Paramahansa Yogananda passed away on March 7, 1952, in Los Angeles, fol­low­ing his delivery of a speech at a banquet honoring Dr. Binay R. Sen, India’s Ambassador to the United States. His passing received widespread coverage in the press, including The New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, and Time magazine. In 1977, on the occasion of the twentyfifth anniversary of Paramahansa Yogananda’s passing, the Government of India formally recognized his outstanding contributions to the spiritual upliftment of humanity by issuing a commemorative stamp in his honor, together with a tribute that read, in part: “The ideal of love for God and service to humanity found full expression in the life of Paramahansa Yogananda....

Though the major part of his life was spent outside India, still, [he] takes his place among our great saints. His work continues to grow and shine ever more brightly, drawing people everywhere on the path of the pilgrimage of the Spirit.”

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 9

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

The Principles of Leadership YLDP Students meet with Dr. Latha Ramchand

Students of Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) with Dr. Latha Ramchand at the India House on December 12, 2015. by: Viswajith Kumar

L

eadership is a quality that is an essential part of our society. From all corners of the globe, leadership is the main driver behind the next innovative ideas and solutions to today’s problems.

While leadership is important, in order to cultivate better leaders for the coming generations, we must ask ourselves:

Congressional bid of Indian American politician gains momentum WASHINGTON: The Congressional bid of Indian American Raja Krishnamurthi appears to have gained momentum with the Illinois politician bagging endorsements from top US lawmakers including the influential Nancy Pelosi.

“Raja will bring to Congress a tireless work ethic and deep experience in the public and private sectors,” Pelosi, who is leader of the Democratic Party in the US House of Representatives, said.

“These qualities will enable him to pursue our common goal of fighting for progressive causes and strengthening and growing our middle class,” she said in a recent statement.

“I strongly endorse Raja Krishnamoorthi because he is a true progressive and the best candidate to represent the working families in Chicago’s Northwest suburbs,” Pelosi had said.

Krishanmoorthi, 42, is seeking to enter the House of Representatives from the eighth Congressional District of Illinois and has been endorsed by 16 members of Congress, including Pelosi and Congressman Jan Schakowsky.

Attovrney and entrepreneur, Raja has also been endorsed by David Axelrod, former senior advisor to President Obama. In total, his campaign is supported by over 100 local and national leaders and organisations.

His immediate challenge is to get through the March 15 primary contest before the general election.

Krishnamoorthi previously was the policy director and a senior advisor for Barack Obama’s 2004 US Senate campaign, and also served as an advisor to Obama’s 2008 Presidential campaign.

He served as Deputy Treasurer of Illinois from 2007-2009 under Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, and in 2010 ran for the Democratic nomination for Illinois State Comptroller, losing to David E Miller by less than one per cent of the vote.

Born in New Delhi on July 19, 1973, his parents immigrated to Buffalo, New York when he was three months old.

Krishnamurthi currently serves as president of Sivananthan Labs and Episolar, Inc, small businesses that develop and sell products in the national security and renewable energy industries.

He is a co-founder of InSPIRE, a non-profit organisation that provides training to Illinois students and veterans in solar technology, and was formerly Vice-Chairman of the Illinois Innovation Council, which promotes innovative technologies that support economic growth and job creation.

what determines good leadership? What does one need in order to be a successful and proficient leader rather than just a mediocre one? These questions were some of the many brought up during the thought-provoking discussion the students of YLDP had with Dr. Latha Ramchand, Dean and Professor of Finance at the C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston.

On December 12, the students of Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP) were honored to have Dr. Ramchand speak to us about her views on leadership and the qualities that shape individuals into robust leaders for the future. Dr. Ramchand elucidated the students with fascinating stories and examples of unique forms of leadership. She recounted the experiences of her grand-

mother’s hardships growing up in India surrounded by abject poverty and the qualities her grandmother possessed to lead her family out of poverty into a life of successes. Furthermore, Dr. Ramchand discussed her own struggles as a leader in America and the adversity she had to overcome to obtain the success she has achieved.

From the many inspiring

Speaking to the students is Dr. Latha Ramchand, Dean, C. T. Bauer College of Business at the University of Houston. accounts of leadership Dr. Ramchand shared with us, one message was clear: people are not born as leaders rather they are made into leaders. Leadership is not an inherent trait that humans possess. The experiences of individuals and adversity they overcome are a few of the many things that mold people into strong leaders. Good leadership is a quality that everyone can inhibit

but only through hard work, determination, and perseverance can we achieve this trait.

Moreover, it is one’s job as a leader to extend a sense of empathy to others no matter what attitude others extend back.

Attributes like this are what distinguish individuals like Dr. Ramchand and her grandmother as outstanding leaders and role models for the future generations of leaders.

VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

2015 in

Wishing all a news filled year in 2016

W e c o v e r e d Y o u

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Voice of Asia News Group Launches HealthLine Magazine

M a k e n e w s in 2 0 1 6

ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com

Vol. 29 No. 1

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VOICE OF ASIA 11

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Dying art? A recipe to save Hong Kong’s handmade dim sum

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Tel: 713-774-5140

Here’s How Many People Fatally Overdosed On Marijuana Last Year The rate has held steady from previous years.

by Kim Bellware, The Huffington 12/28/2015.

Post,

ith marijuana now legal in some form throughout 23 states, the number of Americans who fatally overdosed on the drug last year was significant:

W

The rate of absolutely zero deaths from a marijuana overdose remained steady from last year, according to figures re-

-- the CDC described the levels as “epidemic.”

“More persons died from drug overdoses in the United States in 2014 than during any previous year on record,” the CDC reported earlier this month.

Alcohol, an even more accessible substance, is killing Americans at a rate not seen in roughly 35 years, according to a Washington Post analysis of federal data. The more than

marijuana might require something like 1,000 times the usual dose to cause death.

Though marijuana has yet to lead to a fatal overdose in the U.S., it does have the potential to be abused and lead to dangerous behaviors like drugged driving -- but taking too much will likely lead to, if anything, a really bad trip.

Despite the changing tide in American attitudes toward marijuana for both therapeutic

A waitress serves baskets of dim sum on a trolley in a restaurant in Hong Kong (AFP Photo/ Philippe Lopez).

by Dennis CHONG ONG KONG - AFP For the past 60 years, Chui Hoi has risen in the early hours of the morning to prepare bite-size steamed morsels for his small but popular dim sum restaurant in Hong Kong.

H

“Sun Hing” opens its doors at 3:00 am, seven days a week, with a loyal clientele from students to the elderly filling the 60-seat restaurant in the western district of Kennedy Town.

At 85 years old, Chui is committed to handmaking his dim sum -- parcels of meat, seafood and sweet fillings served in stacks of bamboo baskets -saying that freshness is key to their success.

But many in the industry fear the traditional art of making dim sum is dying as restaurants choose factorymade versions to save money and meet demand.

“Fresh handmade foods are beautiful after they are steamed, but many are made

to join us,” he told AFP. “Many of them have turned to hotels’ western restaurants and sushi restaurants for jobs instead of Chinese ones,” says Tang, with younger people seeing them as more fashionable and with better hours.

- Teenage hopes -Dim sum -- which means “touching the heart” -- is a Cantonese-style cuisine from southern China, often served with pots of tea.

Typical dishes vary from parcels of ground pork and shrimp “siu mai” to sweet treats including custard buns and “ma lai go” steamed sponge cake.

Once mainly part of a leisurely weekend ritual which could take hours, many dim sum joints in Hong Kong now have a quickfire approach, including take-away kiosks inside subway stations.

With demand growing and rental costs high, mass-produced buns and dumplings imported from mainland Chi-

won HK$25,000 (US$3,200) cash and a one-year apprenticeship at the hotel.

- Cultural heritage -There is also hope among the city’s food experts, who say dim sum’s enduring popularity at home and increasing appeal abroad will inspire young chefs.

Several of the city’s local dim sum restaurants have received international accolades, including Michelin stars.

“The tradition (of eating dim sum) is still thriving... On Father’s Day, for example, you don’t go to a western fast food restaurant, you go to ‘yum cha’,” says Hong Kong food blogger KC Koo. “Yum cha” -- Cantonese for “drink tea” -- is the name for the meal during which dim sum are eaten, washed down by hot tea.

Koo adds that it is important to preserve the handmade tradition as it is a key facet of Cantonese culture.

“I have confidence that there

leased this month by the Centers for Disease Control. But while Americans aren’t dying as a result of marijuana overdoses, the same can’t be said for a range of other substances, both legal and illicit.

30,700 Americans who died from alcohol-induced causes last year doesn’t include alcohol-related deaths like drunk driving or accidents; if it did, the death toll would be more than two and a half times higher.

A total of 17,465 people died from overdosing on illicit drugs like heroin and cocaine last year, while 25,760 people died from overdosing on prescription drugs, including painkillers and tranquilizers like Valium, according to CDC figures.

According to a widely cited 2006 report in American Scientist, “alcohol is more lethal than many other commonly abused substances.” The report further puts the lethality of various substances in perspective:

Opioid overdose levels rose so sharply in 2014 -- spiking 14 percent from the previous year

At 85 years old, restaurant owner Chui Hoi is committed to handmaking his dim sum -- parcels of meat, seafood and sweet fillings served in stacks of bamboo baskets -- saying that freshness is key to their success (AFP Photo/Isaac Lawrence).

in factories now,” says Chui.

Younger chefs are less interested in the hard graft it takes to prepare dim sum, he adds -- it is usually eaten in the morning, so cooks must get up in the night to prepare.

“Young people think being in this industry means no freedom because you have to get up early and the hours are long,” he said.

At Maxim’s Palace in the harbourfront City Hall building -- a favourite with locals and tourists -- chandeliers sparkle over dim sum diners in the buzzing banqueting hall.

But, like Chui, Maxim’s supervising chef Tang Leunghung says there is a dearth of young talent to produce its handmade fare.

“The problem with the industry is the manpower.

Young people are not willing

na are a way to up the volume and cut costs.

will be new blood as the market is there,” he said.

But there are those who are actively seeking to prevent a culinary art from dying out.

Back at “Sun Hing”, the elder Chui’s 48-year-old son Chui Kwok-hing is following in his father’s footsteps.

In the kitchen of Hong Kong’s famous five-star Peninsula hotel, teenagers don chefs’ whites to knead dough and fill intricate parcels as part of a cooking contest.

“I come in at 1:30 am. Sometimes I feel like I have migrated to another country as the hours are upside down,” he says of the exhausting routine.

“We need to attract youngsters to join this trade. Craftsmanship is what is needed,” says Frankie Tang, executive chef of the Peninsula’s Spring Moon Restaurant and organiser of the contest.

But he sees a reason for waking up in the dark.

Of the five finalists making dim sum from scratch, 17year-old Wu Cheng-long won after making dishes including crunchy lotus-seed pastry and a spring roll filled with fruit.

“I feel happy when people think the food is delicious.”

“We should make people not forget (how to make) dim sum.

We should continue to develop this tradition,” said Wu, who

“My dad is already 85-yearsold but he still works here -as the young generation, we should try to be even better.”

“People like to have dim sum in the morning, to be energised with some tea before going to work,” he told AFP.

He adds that he wants to preserve the restaurant’s hardwon reputation.

Drinking a mere 10 times the normal amount of alcohol within 5 or 10 minutes can prove fatal, whereas smoking or eating

and recreational uses, legalization is still vigorously opposed by groups like the pharmaceutical lobby (who stand to lose big if patients turn to medical marijuana for treatment) and police unions (who stand to lose federal funding for the war on drugs).

Even among 2016 presidential contenders, Democratic hopeful Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) is the only candidate from either party to support outright legalization of marijuana by removing it from the federal list of Schedule 1 drugs, which includes substances like heroin and LSD.

BEAUTY & FASHION

VOICE OF ASIA 12

BEAUTY & STYLE

Wavy side braid For a pretty and unique look, Jackie Wyers has come up with the ‘Wavy Braid’. To achieve the look, prep the hair with dry shampoo to absorb oil and create texture, before moving all the hair to one side, leaving a few tendrils loose. Then weave the hair into a braid, pulling out sections as you go for a waved effect. Use curlers on the loose

Hairstyles Easy, Cute & Unique Looks

N

ew Year’s Eve is one of the most glamorous nights of the year, so it deserves a little extra attention when it comes to your hairstyle.

Here are three show stopping looks and how to recreate them.

Bohemian crown For a fairytale style follow Lilith Moon’s advice and opt for this bohemian-style updo. Section off the hair to create a slim reverse fishtail plait on one side

Remove makeup

© youTube / Jackie Wyers. 7 Easy Holiday Hairstyles Tutorial

Green is beautiful , if the buzz surrounding the upcoming Sustainable Cosmetics Summit in New York is anything to go by.

G

reen is beautiful, if the buzz surrounding the upcoming Sustainable Cosmetics Summit in New York is anything to go by.

As the beauty industry makes a conscious effort to smarten up its act regarding sustainable ingredients, the sixth edition of the annual summit will examine everything from environmentally friendly products to marketing techniques within the business, focusing on how we can replace some of the most contentious chemicals in cosmetics.

It may sound obvious, but going to sleep with a face full of makeup is an easy mistake to make, particularly during party season. Cosmetics can clog the pores and slow down the repair process, leading to overnight breakouts and dull skin. Use a simple cleanser before going to bed for happy morning skin.

Exfoliate The benefits of dry brushing are widely known -- it sloughs off dead skin cells and boosts circulation for brighter skin.

Brush your body in the direction of the heart for a few minutes before showering every day and you could see a real difference.

Make beauty resolutions you can keep. © R.Iegosyn/Shutterstock.com well as keeping them more effective in the long term.

Moisturize with SPF

Wash makeup brushes regularly Brushes can harbor all sorts of bacteria, so it’s important to cleanse them regularly. Rinsing them in warm soapy water around once a fortnight and leaving them to dry naturally will keep them free of germs, as

UVA rays can damage the skin regardless of the weather, so it’s important to protect it if you want to ward off the aging process. An easy way to incorporate this into your routine is by using a daily moisturizer containing SPF 15 or higher.

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Amidst growing consumer concerns about the ecological and health impacts of beauty ingredients, the event will present a choice of green emulsifiers and surfactants, as well as sustainable alternatives to squalene and microplastic exfoliants, known for their high environmental footprints. The merits of sustainable palm oil and the safety of natural materials will also be debated and a dedicated workshop is set to focus on paraben-free preservative systems.

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“The cosmetic industry appears to be preoccupied with environmental aspects; we want to show how operators can take a holistic perspective when considering sustainability,” says Amarjit Sahota, president of London-based

specialist research group Organic Monitor, which is behind the event.

T

his time of year, it’s common for my patients to come to me complaining of very dry, sensitive and sometimes cracked skin. The dropping temperatures, decrease in humidity and heaters continually running can distress the skin.

There are a few do’s and don’ts this winter when it comes to caring for your skin. This includes small lifestyle changes along with skin care products that help hydrate, protect and improve the visible appearance of your skin.

DO: 1. Use a gentle cleanser.

A cleanser should remove makeup and clear pores without stripping skin of the necessary oils. I recommend my patients use a lotion or a gentle foaming cleanser in the winter to help improve hydration and soothe winter itch.

2. Use a heavier moisturizer.

The amount of hydration your skin requires most likely differs in the winter when it’s exposed to dry wind and colder air. Try using a more emollient product to give skin additional hydration.

For example, if you use a lotion moisturizer in the summer, switch

to a cream during the fall and winter months.

3. Apply sunscreen. Ultraviolet rays are still a threat to skin in the winter. Outdoor activities like skiing increase your exposure when sun reflects off the snow. I always encourage my patients to use an SPF 30 or higher every day in winter to protect against visible signs of aging.

4. Care for the whole body. The skin plays a key role in the immune system and is the body’s first line of defense. I remind my patients it’s important to care for skin on their arms, legs and torso as part of a well-rounded strategy for staying healthy in the winter.

DON’T: 1. Ignore it.

If left untreated, dry skin can lead to a condition called winter itch. This is when the skin barrier can become very dry and cracked, which could lead to infection.

Apply an extra-hydrating lotion on hands, feet, arms and legs to maintain hydration.

2. Soak in very hot water.

While it’s relaxing to take a long, hot shower in the cold winter weather, this can dramatically

3. Overdo your moisturizer.

On the flip side, too much hydration can do more harm than good. Healthy skin needs only a specific amount of moisture and oils, so I tell my patients to use a product specifically formulated to give skin the right amount of moisture along with the proper oils that keep the skin healthy.

4. Exfoliate with physical exfoliants.

Exfoliating with agents like microbeads can tear the skin, leading to inflammation. When skin is more delicate from the cold weather, exfoliating can aggravate it even further. A better alternative is a salicylic and azelaic acid product to clear out pores and remove surface scale.

If my patients stay on top of dry and irritated skin in the winter, their overall health will be better as well. Of course, every person’s skin is different, so I do recommend visiting your skin care professional for a complete consultation to determine what may be best for you.

The ‘Slow Cosmetics’ movement has been gathering pace over the course of the last year, so there’s no better time to try out a more natural approach to your beauty regime. Cutting out synthetic ingredients, silicones and chemical preservatives such as phenoxyethanol and focusing on organic ingredients could do wonders for both you and the environment. Relax news

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lower the moisture content in your skin. Limit your time in the shower or bath, and avoid using very hot water.

Go natural

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8 Do’s and Don’ts When Dealing With Dry Winter Skin

by Carl Thornfeldt, M.D

of the head, tugging at the sides to make it appear wider and making sure to leave two sections loose at the front. Then tie these sections to the back of the head and flip the ponytail into a twist.

Bring the fishtail across the back of the head and secure it in place, before plaiting the remaining hair and wrapping it over the head to create a ‘crown’. https://youtu.be/WMS7tFemuFM

A new year is the perfect time to turn over a new leaf, and this includes ditching all those bad beauty habits that may have become ingrained in your routine. Here are five easy-to-keep beauty resolutions for 2016.

Green is the new black: sustainable beauty gets a boost in New York

The summit will also look at how cosmetic and ingredient firms can add social value and engage with customers, with Shannon Hess from Burt’s Bees explaining how the natural cosmetics brand is making a social difference with its ‘greater good’ business model.

Wanda Malhotra, CEO and founder of Surya Brasil, will also be on hand to show how the brand is engaging Brazilian consumers to make sustainable

strands framing the face and add a sparkly accessory for a polished party look. https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=XpdDIKiG0GM

Resolutions for a beautiful New Year

Braided up-do Hair vlogger Kayley Melissa has come up with an intricate braided style perfect for a sophisticated New Year’s Eve. It involves back-combing a front section of the hair to create volume, sectioning it off to create three buns in a vertical line down the back of the head and pinning them in place, twisting the strands for a ‘plaited’ Mohawk effect. This is the perfect style for those with longer hair, which will allow enough knots to really give the look volume and drama. https://youtu.be/ N6awL4dXZFw

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

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FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Young Life

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Children’s toys can affect language learning according to new study A US study has found that traditional children’s toys such as wooden puzzles, rubber blocks, and shape-sorters are more effective in increasing the quantity and quality of language in young children than modern electronic toys that produce lights, words, and songs.

I

n the study, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, a team of researchers from Northern Arizona University, USA, carried out a controlled experiment with 26 children aged 10 to 16 months old.

Speech-Language-Hearing Foundation, include the small sample size and a lack of diversity in the participants who were all of a similar race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

However the study still supports previous research, with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) releasing last year their first official policy on the benefits of reading to children in infancy.

The children were given three different sets of toys, electronic, traditional, and books, for playtime with a parent their own home. The sound of the playtime was recorded in the home using audio equipment for researchers to analyze later.

After listening to the recordings, the team found that when compared to playing with books and traditional toys, playing with the electronic toys decreased the quality and quantity of language used by both children and parents, with fewer adults’ words, fewer parental responses, less contentspecific language, and less back-andforth conversation.

Parents also used fewer words and less content-specific words when playing with the traditional toys than with the books, however the authors noted that the largest and most consistent differences were between electronic toys and books, followed by electronic toys and traditional toys.

The researchers concluded that both

Reading with young children “stimulates optimal patterns of brain development and strengthens parent-child relationships at a critical time in child development, which, in turn, builds language, literacy and social-emotional skills that last a lifetime,” the AAP guidelines said.

The AAP also advised that the best kind of learning for children is through interactive play with humans and toys, not electronic gadgets and screens.

Traditional children’s toys such as wooden puzzles and shape-sorters are more effective in increasing the quantity and quality of language in young children than modern electronic toys, according to US researchers. Photo credit © Ami Parikh/shutterstock.com book reading and play with traditional toys are effective for facilitating language and encourage “a rich communicative interaction between parents and infants,” whereas playing with electronic toys, which are often pro-

moted as being educational and are often more expensive than traditional toys and books, should be discouraged.

Limitations to the study, funded by a research grant from the American

“We can stimulate greater brain development in these months and years,” commented Peter Richel, a fellow of the AAP, adding, “I do see earlier word recognition, earlier phrases and sentence formation, and singing -- I always recognize that in those who are exposed to daily reading.”

Courtesy: Relaxnews

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Tel: 713-774-5140

Consumer Reports: Safest Child Safety Seats PITTSBURGH (KDKA) December 29, 201– Consumer Reports has important new child-seat advice for parents.

Based on its latest tests, Consumer Reports is urging parents to move their children out of infant carriers and into rearfacing convertible seats at a younger age.

Consumer Reports crash-tested infant seats and rear-facing convertible seats using a 22-pound dummy representing a 1-year-old child. With more than half the infant seats, the dummy’s head hit the simulated front-seat back. But, that didn’t happen with 24 of the 25 convertible seats.

Children are technically too tall for an infant carrier seat when their head is less than one inch from the top of the carrier’s shell. But, Consumer Reports’ new advice goes further, recommending that all children be moved to a rear-facing convertible seat by their first birthday, even if they haven’t outgrown their infant carrier.

You should keep your child in a rearfacing seat until he or she is at least 2 years old. The seat can then be installed in a forward-facing position and used for several more years.

Along with crash tests, Consumer Reports evaluates each seat for ease of use and installation because without proper installation, even the safest seat can’t fully protect your child in a crash.

Top ratings for convertible seats go to the Chicco Nextfit for $300 and the Britax Marathon ClickTight Seat for $265.

But, you don’t have to spend a lot to get a safe seat. Consumer Reports recommends two Best Buys—the Evenflo Sure Ride for $100 and the Cosco Scenera NEXT for $45.

These Indian College Students’ Stories of Sexual Harassment Show It Happens Everywhere

by Julie Zeilinger MIC, December 28, 2015

ible 100% of French women polled reported having experienced sexual harassment on public transportation, the Independent also reported.

F

rom directly confronting their harassers to viral social media posts and even school projects, women are speaking out against street harassment more than ever before. Given that a 2014 report by the organization Stop Street Harassment found 65% of American women have experienced it, these responses are clearly warranted.

And yet despite harassment’s pervasiveness, few women report it.

Over 90% of the cases included in the aforementioned 2012 Indian poll went unreported — perhaps for good reason, given that 95% of those who did report were unsatisfied with the response received, according to the Times of India. Report rates are similarly low elsewhere: Over 90% of women who reported experiencing harassment on London transportation in 2013 didn’t report the incidents either, according to the Independent.

But the issue is one that undoubtedly extends beyond the United States — a reality that a group of Delhi University students revealed in “My First Experience With Sexual Harassment,” a recently released Old Delhi Films video, BuzzFeed reported Monday.

Source: Old Delhi Films/YouTube

While the students’ individual experiences varied — from harassment in the home to on the street or in public places — the overall experience is a common one in India. One study revealed 7 in 10 Indian women have been sexually harassed, the Times of India reported in 2012, and an estimated 848 Indian women are harassed, raped or killed daily, according to a 2014 Huffington Post report.

commonly as teens but even at just “7 or 8” and in grade school. This is a theme common outside of India as well. One 2015 survey conducted by the organization Hollaback! and Cornell University found that 85% percent of U.S. women experience street harassment before the age of 17, and 67% of women report experiencing it before age 14.

However, one notable detail united the women’s stories: Many noted that they first experienced harassment well before adulthood — most

American women have also anecdotally bolstered this finding. One woman was groped on the first day of fifth grade and many others re-

call receiving lewd and objectifying remarks about their bodies at even younger ages, Mic’s Mathew Rodriguez reported in September.

While this new film draws attention to the manifestation of harassment in India, the degrading phenomenon is ultimately a global one. One 2014 poll found that a third of women in London say they have been verbally harassed on public transportation, and 19% have been victims of direct physical abuse, according to the Independent. In April, an incred-

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“We face incidents of sexual harassment almost on a daily basis,” one student says in the video.

But that hardly means women should blame themselves for these experiences, she adds.

“Everybody is at fault,” she says.

“Society is at fault, the system is at fault.”

Until the system changes, however, the students urged women to similarly speak out about their experiences.

As another student concludes, “If we won’t stand up for ourselves, nobody will.”

VOICE OF ASIA 15

Section 2

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Bollywood Masala

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

Tel: 713-774-5140

Bollywood mourns veteran Cricketers and their actor Sadhana’s death love connections with Bollywood stars

C

ricketers have been making as much news for their love lives as they have been for their playing abilities. Here we take a look at cricketer love lives that have made headlines:

The actor died on Friday after a long battle with cancer. (YouTube)

B

ollywood celebrities like Lata Mangeshkar, Rishi Kapoor and Anupam Kher have mourned the death of yesteryear actor

Sadhana and remembered the famous songs she was a part of.

The actor died on Friday after a long battle with cancer, a family friend said. She was 74. Sad-

hana is known for her work in films like Woh Kaun Thi?, Mera Saaya, Intaqam and Waqt.

B-Town took to Twitter to express their grief:

No lovemaking scene in ‘Wazir’: Farhan Akhtar

Farhan Akhtar in Wazir

M

umbai, Dec 29 (PTI) Actor Farhan Akhtar has denied the presence of any intimate scene in “Wazir” between him and Aditi Rao Hydari, who plays his love interest in the upcoming film.

There were reports that the makers of the film, releasing on January 8, had chosen to drop the scene to avoid conflict with the censor board.

“Just read about a non-existent love making scene in Wazir being censored..!! Where does all this fake info originate.

.??#creativitygonewrong,” Farhan posted on Twitter.

Directed by Bejoy Nambiar,

“Wazir” also stars Amitabh Bachchan, Neil Nitin Mukesh and John Abraham. It is produced by Vidhu Vinod Chopra.

Airlift’ will make you proud to be Indian: Akshay Kumar

M

umbai - Superstar Akshay Kumar says his upcoming film “Airlift”, based on the biggest evacuation of Indians based in Kuwait during the Iraq-Kuwait war, will make everyone proud. “@AirliftFilm, a true story

that will make you #ProudToBeIndian! #Jan22,” he posted on Twitter.

Directed by Raja Krishna Menon, “Airlift” also stars actors Nimrat Kaur and Purab Kohli. The film is slated to hit the screens on January 22, 2016.

Gary Sobers and Anju Mahendru: Anju, a 17 year old Bollywood newbie then, was engaged to Rajesh Khanna, when she met the West Indian all rounder. Gary was immediately smitten by the lovely lady, and she took a liking to him as well. She broke off her engagement to Khanna, and Gary and Anju had a brief relationship.

But, her parents opposed the marriage on racial grounds, and the relationship died a bitter death.

Kapil Dev and Sarika Thakur: The beautiful actress was in an alleged relationship with the ex-Indian cricket captain.

Dev’s family was also fine with the affair. But, it was soon discovered that he already had a girlfriend, and so Sarika and Dev parted ways. While Sarika went on to marry Kamal Hassan, and later separated from him, Dev married Romi Bhatia.

The couple has a daughter.

Mahendra Singh Dhoni and Deepika Padukone: The Indian ODI captain revealed that he had a crush on Deepika Padukone, way back when she had just entered the Bollywood industry and was fresh from the success of Om Shanti Om. Dhoni invited Deepika to a T20 game against Australia, and when the lady accepted the invitation, the rumour mills started turning. But, nothing much happened beyond that, and while Dhoni is happily married to Sakshi, and is a doting father to a daughter, Deepika is at the top of her game in Bollywood, and is in a relationship with Ranveer Singh.

Yuvraj Singh and Kim Sharma: Theirs was a much spoken about affair that lasted for four years. There were even rumours that they were ready to take the plunge and settle down. However, the couple split – while some said that it was because his mother did not approve of his choice, others said that it was because of Kim’s obsessive behavior. Whatever be the reason, Kim is now married to a Kenyan businessman, while Yuvi is all ready to tie the knot with his girlfriend Hazel Keech.

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli: Theirs is one relationship that has been in the news quite often. While, initially, the duo maintained that they were not seeing each other, at a match in Melbourne, Anushka was seen blowing a kiss to Virat, hence making their relationship official. The couple has been quite open about their relationship now, and the actress is often seen cheering for her boyfriend from the stands.

The duo have also been vocal about their love and admiration

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Vivian Richards and Neena Gupta

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Deepika Padukone and Mahendra Singh Dhoni. for each other on social media.

While earlier reports surfaced that the couple were going to marry early 2016, these were rubbished as rumours.

Nagma and Saurav Ganguly: This was one affair that shocked the cricketing world.

The two met in 1999 in London, when Saurav was married to Dona, his college sweetheart and wife. In 2001, photographs of the two were leaked where they were at a temple in South India, performing a puja that is done by married couple. While Dona stood firmly by her husband’s side, denying all allegations, Nagma opened up about the relationship in an interview with a magazine, where she said that they had to end their relation as they had to put the nation’s interest first.

Zeenat Aman and Imran Khan: Their cross border relationship was fodder for gossip - Imran Khan was the quintessential playboy, while Zeenat, the sexy siren. Their relationship did not last long though, and Zeenat moved on to Sanjay Khan, while Imran found love in Benazir Bhutto, and had a number of marriages and rela-

Vivian Richards, was married, but separated when he met actress Neena Gupta. Though the affair was short lived, it left behind something priceless – a daughter, designer Masaba Gupta, who is all grown up now and has already made a name for herself. Vivian Richards continues to be actively involved in his daughter’s life, and the three even go on vacations together.

Sharmila Tagore and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi: Theirs was a cross religion love story - a fairy tale that did have a happy ending. The two met in 1965, in Delhi and while the Bengali beauty Sharmila Tagore fell for the royal cricketer’s charm and sense of humour, the Nawab was instantly smitten by her beauty. While religion and their different backgrounds did create a bit of a problem initially, the two managed to convince their families and they got married on December 27, 1969.

The marriage lasted a lifetime, until the Nawab passed away in 2011.

Source: Daily Musings

Anushka Sharma and Virat Kohli tionships post.

Ravi Shastri and Amrita Singh: When love blossomed between the actress and the cricketer during the late 80’s, the two were very vocal about it. But, their relationship also did not last long, and Ravi Shastri went on to marry Ritu Singh, while Amrita married Saif Ali Khan. Both their respective marriages did not work out, though.

Vivian Richards and Neena Gupta: West Indian cricketer,

Sharmila Tagore and Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi

VOICE OF ASIA 16

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

HEALTHY LIVING VOICE OF ASIA

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Treat ‘normal’ blood pressure to save lives: study urges

Millions of lives could be saved by giving blood pressure-lowering drugs to people at risk of heart attack and stroke, even if they have normal pressure, researchers said Thursday.

B

ased on an analysis of 123 medical trials involving more than 600,000 people over two decades, the team called for an urgent review of existing treat-

ment guidelines.

“Our findings clearly show that treating blood pressure to a lower level than currently recommended could greatly

reduce the incidence of cardiovascular disease,” said study lead author Kazem Rahimi of the University of Oxford.

This could “potentially save

WHO announces Ebola milestone as Guinea outbreak ends Amid the jubilation and hope for a return to normality, experts have sounded a note of caution, as the virus has been shown to persist in the sperm and other body fluids of survivors significantly longer than previously thought.

- Shattered economies -Liberia was declared free of humanto-human transmission in May and again in September, but both times the fever resurfaced in small clusters.

PHOTO: WHO

by Mouctar Bah with Ben Simon in Geneva ONAKRY, Guinea | AFP | Tuesday 12/29/2015 - The UN’s health agency on Tuesday declared Guinea’s Ebola outbreak over two years after it emerged, spreading death across west Africa and pushing the region’s worst-hit communities to the brink of collapse.

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One of the poorest nations in the world, the former French colony was the host for “patient zero” -- an infant who became the first victim -- and health authorities went on to record some 2,500 deaths.

“The epidemic of Ebola virus disease in Guinea is over,” Mohamed Belhoucine, the World Health Organization’s local representative, announced in the capital Conakry.

The fever spread stealthily and terrifyingly from December 2013, striking two neighbouring countries, Sierra Leone and Liberia, with sporadic cases also in Mali, Nigeria and Senegal.

As world health watchdogs struggled to respond, deaths mounted at a dizzying rate, igniting fears in Europe and elsewhere of a virus that transgressed borders and national controls.

Around 11,300 people died out of almost 29,000 recorded cases, according to a WHO tally that many experts believe greatly understates the real impact of the outbreak.

Paying tribute to Guineans for “standing their ground and fighting with courage”, Belhoucine

also acknowledged the international community’s help in battling the outbreak.

“At the peak of the epidemic... the country recorded hundreds of cases per week. The social fabric was severely tested,” he said.

The last known case in Guinea was a three-month-old named Nubia, who was born with the disease but whose recovery was confirmed on November 16.

That triggered the countdown to the announcement, as a period of 42 days -- twice the virus’s maximum incubation period -is required to declare a country free of transmission.

- ‘Au revoir, Ebola’ -The WHO declared Sierra Leone’ epidemic over on November 7, while Liberia discharged its last known Ebola cases on December 3.

“We have to be very careful because, even if open transmission has been stopped, the disease has not been totally defeated,” said Alpha Seny Souhmah, a Guinean health technician and Ebola survivor.

The WHO said in a statement from Geneva that Guinea had entered a 90-day period of “heightened surveillance” to ensure any new cases are identified quickly before they could spread.

Guineans battling Ebola have been faced with huge obstacles, not least the country’s grinding poverty and a crumbling medical infrastructure.

Frontline workers have also had to combat the rumour mill, entrenched denial, fear of Ebola stigma and resistance to confinement measures deemed authoritarian or unreasonable.

They also had to persuade people to abandon funeral traditions whereby mourners touch the body of their loved one -- a potent pathway to infection.

President Alpha Conde is expected at an celebration in Conakry on Wednesday, flanked by representatives from donor countries and dozens of organisations involved in the recovery, from Doctors without Borders to the Red Cross.

The epidemic devastated the economies of the worst-hit countries, as crops rotted in the fields, mines were abandoned and goods could not get to market.

Guests will pay tribute to the 115 health workers who died fighting Ebola and eight members of an Ebola awareness team killed by hostile locals in Guinea’s forested southeast.

Strong recent growth has been curtailed in Guinea and while Liberia has resumed growth, Sierra Leone is facing a severe recession, according to the World Bank, which has mobilised $1.62 billion for Ebola response and recovery efforts.

A range of top African musicians, including Youssou N’Dour and Mory Kante, will take to the stage for a “memorial” concert -- entitled “Bye-bye, au revoir Ebola” in the francophone country.

The bank’s group president Jim Yong Kim called for continued support for Guinea and its neighbours, vowing to “do everything we can to help these countries and the world prevent another deadly pandemic”.

millions of lives.”

Blood pressure is recorded as two numbers, written as a ratio, for example 140/90 mmHg (millimetres of mercury -- the blood pressure unit).

The number on top is the “systolic” pressure inside the arteries when the heart beats, and the other the “diastolic” pressure between beats, when the heart is at rest and refilling with blood.

According to the American Heart Association, a “normal” pressure is less than 120/80, and becomes high from 140/90.

The study found that every 10 mmHg reduction in systolic blood pressure reduced the risk of heart attack by about a fifth, of stroke and heart failure by about a quarter, and the risk of death from any cause by 13 percent.

“Importantly, these reductions in disease were similar across a wide range of high risk patients... irrespective of whether their blood pressure was already low (less than 130 mmHg) to begin with,” they wrote.

People at high risk include those with a history of heart or artery disease, stroke, diabetes or heart failure.

The researchers urged a revision of blood pressure guidelines, including those of the European Society of Hypertension which recently relaxed its recommended treatment level for high-risk patients from 130 to 140mmHg of systolic pressure.

- It’s relative “Our results provide strong support for lowering blood pressure to systolic blood pressures less than 130 mmHg,” wrote the team.

High blood pressure is the leading cause of heart disease and stroke, said the study authors, affecting more than a billion people worldwide and killing about 9.4 million every year.

The benefits of lowering sustained high pressure are well established, but it has not been clear whether people with “normal” pressure levels would also benefit from treatment.

University of Sheffield cardiologist Tim Chico, who was not involved in the study, stressed that the benefits of treatment for a person with “normal” blood pressure would depend on the individual’s other risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

“For example, if you are already at a low risk, reducing this by 20 percent isn’t all that important, and probably isn’t either cost-effective or desirable,” he said via the Science Media Centre.

“However, if you are at high risk (such as if you already have cardiovascular disease, diabetes or smoke) then a 20 percent reduction in risk makes a big difference and saves a lot of lives.”

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Happy New Year and Say Goodbye to the Social Security ‘File-and-Suspend’ Strategy A budget bill is putting the brakes on a lucrative strategy to maximize Social Security benefits.

C

ouples who want to use the “file-andsuspend” strategy to maximize their Social Security benefits will have to rethink their plan.

Thanks to a recent budget bill, the door is closing on two rules that allowed spouses to coordinate benefits, so they could increase the overall amount of money they receive from Social Security.

In addition, people older than age 66 who filed for benefits, and then suspended them in order to get a higher payout rate later, will no longer have the option to receive a retroactive lump sum payment if they change their mind and lift the suspension.

According to experts, the changes are geared toward saving money and closing perceived loopholes in the Social Security program. “As much as I hate to admit it, I don’t think Social Security ever meant for these rules to [be used] that way,” says Mike Piershale, president of Piershale Financial Group in Crystal Lake, Illinois.

How the government intended them to be used may be up for debate, but in practice, the file-and-suspend strategy allowed couples the opportunity to maximize their combined benefits. Once one spouse reached full retirement age (currently 66), that person could file for Social Security and then immediately suspend the benefits. Then, their husband or wife could claim a spousal benefit while their deferred Social Security grew 8 percent per year until age 70.

“This is essentially a ‘have your cake and eat it too’ strategy,” says Andrew Moss, senior vice president of investments at Merrill Lynch in Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.

Now, the government is taking that cake and removing the frosting of coordinated benefits.

3 Disappearing Social Security Options While the loss of the fileand-suspend strategy is getting the most attention right now, retirees are actually losing three separate Social Security options. Here’s a look at each piece of the puzzle.

File-and-Suspend The file-and-suspend strategy, as outlined above, will no longer work after May 1, 2016. At that time, a person must file for Social Security and actually receive benefits in order for a husband or wife to get a spousal benefit.

However, for those who are at least 66 or who will turn 66 by April 30, 2016, there is still an opportunity to get in under the old file-and-suspend system. Moss says he’s in the process of identifying clients who are in that “sweet spot” of reaching their full retirement age before May 1 to ensure they don’t miss out on the opportunity.

Those who do squeak in under the deadline will be grandfathered in under the old fileand-suspend rules.

Restricted Applications The second rule being eliminated relates to restricted applications. Currently, those

Sudhir Mathuria Contact: Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6650 Southwest Freeway Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com who are between their full retirement age and age 70 can file a restricted application to claim spousal benefits, but defer their own benefits until age 70. Once they hit 70, they can change from receiving spousal benefits to their own, greater benefits. It’ like the “gravy between age 66 and 70.” Except, like the frosting on the cake, the gravy is being taken away.

In the future, when a spouse files anytime after age 62, he or she will fall under the “deemed filing” rule, which already applies to people who are not at their full retirement age.

However, those who will turn 62 by the end of the year will be grandfathered in under the old rules for restricted applications.

Retroactive Lump Sum Payments The final change applies to suspended benefits. Currently, those with suspended benefits can elect at any time to request payments retroactive back to their filing date.

For example, if a man filed for Social Security at age 66 and then suspended his payments, his benefits would grow at a rate of 8 percent per year.

However, if the man came down with a life-threatening illness at age 68, he could retroactively unsuspend his benefits. He would lose the 16 percent bump in pay he should have received from deferring payments, but Social Security will send a lump sum payment for the past two years. Future monthly payments would be made at the same rate the man would have received had he started benefits at age 66.

“This has been a very valuable strategy for someone who had a change in health or financial status,” Moss says.

It allowed people to hedge their bets by establishing a filing date for Social Security.

They could defer their monthly benefit amount and let it grow but also rest assured they could receive that money retroactively if needed.

Under the new rules, Social Security beneficiaries can no longer retroactively unsuspend benefits. In the example above, if the man needed to start receiving benefits at age 68, he could still unsuspend his filing. He would not receive a lump sum payout for the previous two years, but he would begin to receive his monthly payments at a higher rate, thanks to the deferral.

For your Obamacare, Medicare or Long Term Care health and retirement planning contact Sudhir Mathuria @ 713771-2900.

Anna Dominiczak, editor of the American Heart Association’s journal Hypertension, said she would call for a debate on blood pressure guidelines based on the study findings. AFP

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Big tech leads rally in US stocks

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EW YORK - Large technology stocks led Wall Street equities higher Tuesday with buying sentiment propelled by a positive reading on US consumer confidence as well as higher oil prices.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average finished up 192.71 points (1.10 percent) at 17,720.98.

The broad-based S&P 500 jumped 21.86 (1.06 percent) to 2,078.36, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index advanced 66.95 (1.33 percent) to 5,107.94.

Auto service chain Pep Boys jumped 8.8 percent on news that activist investor Carl Icahn had lifted his bid for the company to more

than $1 billion as he tries to outdo an acquisition offer by Bridgestone.

Videogame developer Activision Blizzard shot up 1.4

percent after a note from investment bank Pacific Crest Securities said Activision’s “Call of Duty” game had been a top seller over the holidays.Presse

Shares of retailers WalMart Stores and Target gained 1.4 percent and 2.2 percent after the Conference Board reported higher consumer confidence in December.

DuPont rose 1.7 percent as it announced plans to cut 1,700 jobs from its US headquarters in ahead of its planned merger with Dow Chemical. Dow rose 2.0 percent.

Chip company Qualcomm rose 2.6 percent after announcing a new patent license agreement with Beijing Tianyu Communication Equipment Co., further strengthening its ties to a booming telecom market.

Oil rebounds on hopes for new fall in US inventories

An oil refinery. (AFP/Jean-Sebastien Evrard)

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EW YORK - Oil prices rebounded Tuesday as traders expected another fall in US crude inventories would help ease the long-running global oversupply weighing on the market.

Other large technology equities were winners. Apple rose 1.8 percent, Microsoft 1.1 percent and Google parent Alphabet 1.9 percent.

Analysts also pointed to support from a three percent gain in US oil prices. That continued a trend in much of December that has seen US equities have move in tandem with swings in oil prices.

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Facebook founder urges free Internet in India amid row

Amazon closed at a new record of $693.97, up 2.8 percent, rising for a second day after Monday announcing record holiday sales of its premium delivery service.

“The market’s demonstrating its underlying strength,” said Michael James, managing director of equity trading at Wedbush Securities.

“Investors are determined to end the year on a positive note.”

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for February delivery rose $1.06 to $37.87 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, reversing much of Monday’s loss.

Facebook chief executive and founder Mark Zuckerberg has tried to drum up support for the Free Basics service that would offer people without the Internet in India free access to a handful of websites

N

EW DELHI, India | AFP | - Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg urged India Monday to approve a controversial plan that would provide a free Internet service to the poor, his latest bid amid an escalating row with authorities.

year there’s been a big debate about this in India,” he added.

“Instead of wanting to give people free access to basic Internet services, critics of the programme continue to spread false claims -- even if that means leaving behind a billion people.”

The head of the social network tried to drum up support for the Free Basics service that offers people without the Internet free access to a handful of websites through mobile phones, in a column in the largest-selling English daily The Times of India.

Zuckerberg’s personal appeal comes amid fierce criticism from net neutrality activists who say his plan violates the principle that the whole Internet should be available to all and unrestricted by any one company.

“If we accept that everyone deserves access to the Internet, then we must surely support free basic Internet services,” the chief executive wrote, comparing the Internet to a library, public health care and education.

Earlier this month the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India ordered Reliance Communications, the sole mobile operator for the service, to suspend it temporarily without giving a reason, documents seen by AFP show.

“Surprisingly, over the last

Some 3.2 million people have petitioned India’s tele-

coms regulator not to ban Free Basics, formerly named Internet.org. It launched nationwide last month after being trialled in several states.

Several prominent Indian entrepreneurs and members of the tech community have spoken out against Free Basics, arguing that even for poor citizens, no Internet is better than a hand-picked and corporatecontrolled web offering.

But in an attempt to counter claims “that this will make Internet more like a walled garden”, Facebook has taken out billboards and full-page newspaper adverts defending the initiative.

Free Basics is “at risk of being banned” in India, Facebook said in the adverts, adding that the service aims to help a billion unconnected Indians -- mostly living in poor rural areas -- to get online.

In London, Brent North Sea crude for February delivery, the European benchmark for crude oil, advanced $1.17 to $37.79 a barrel.

“Analysts are expecting to see a drawdown” in US weekly inventory reports, said Oliver Sloup at iiTrader.com.

The American Petroleum Institute releases its stockpiles report later Tuesday and the more closely watched US Department of Energy (DoE) report comes out Wednesday.

In addition, Sloup said, “there is some housekeeping before the end of the year” as investors arrange portfolios to limit exposure to the risk of betting too much on falling prices.

The DoE’s announcement last week of an unexpected fall in US commercial crude stockpiles, by 5.9 million barrels, briefly had pushed prices higher.

On Wednesday the DoE is expected to report crude inventories fell by 2.5 million barrels for the week ended December 25, according to a Bloomberg News survey of analysts.

Citi Futures analyst Tim Evans suggested that weather may be turning in the market’s favor.

“Petroleum futures prices are springing back from Monday’s weakness, with the prospect of cooler January temperatures in both Europe and the US helping lift heating oil and gasoil prices on either side of the Atlantic,” he said.

On Monday, WTI dropped more than three percent on disappointing economic data from China and Japan and Saudi Arabia’s budget plan that signaled the world’s largest crude-oil exporter is planning for prices to stay low.

The OPEC kingpin posted a record budget deficit for this year as it suffers from global oil prices down more than 60 percent since mid-2014.

“The Saudi budget... reinforced the ‘lower for longer’ sentiment in that market,” said analyst Augustin Eden at traders Accendo Markets, referring to the Saudi-backed OPEC policy of pushing oil prices lower to hurt non-OPEC producers.

Read latest on Business Visit www. voiceofasiaonline.com

AARP Celebrates Generation X as it Turned 50 this Year

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ASHINGTON, DC- As 2015 comes to a close, AARP celebrates the first of America’s 62 million Generation Xers who hit a milestone and turned 50 this year by exploring what is important to them as they age. Gen X - born between 1965 and 1979- is the middle child generation that is sandwiched between their larger counterparts, Baby Boomers and Millennials. As they grow older, it is important to acknowledge that they are having a different experience than their cohorts, and that they are more than just an unsung demographic who wore parachute pants and acid wash jeans.

Gen Xers shoulder far more fiscal responsibilities than previous or future generations, as they financially support their children and provide care for their aging parents.

Americans are facing the reality that as life expectancy increases they must continue working and must rethink their notion of aging and retiring.

“AARP is excited to welcome Generation X to the 50-plus community and be a resource for them as they embrace their age and live the life that they want,” said Sami Hassanyeh, AARP Chief Digital Officer.

“They face different challenges and have different goals than their predecessors, and deserve every opportunity to explore the possibilities that lie ahead.”

Though Gen Xers feel less financially secure than their parents in regards to retirement,

they also plan to work longer and embrace new opportunities in this evolving life phase. Most people turning 50 today can expect to live another 30-plus years, and many are already taking steps towards increasing their longevity - 87% consider themselves in good health and 55% maintain a healthy diet.

They are re-imagining this life transition and expect their future years to be more flexible and rewarding than ever before.

In the past year, 4.4 million Gen Xers hit the big-5-0, and in 2016, another 4.1 million are expected to join the ranks of Americans 50-plus. This group will be the next generation to challenge outdated perceptions of aging and empower people to take control of their futures.

AARP’s goal is to ensure that people have access to care, information and services to lead healthier lives; have the financial resources and opportunities to match their longer life-spans; and that people 50-plus are seen as an integral and inspirational asset to society. The organization is proud to support Generation X, and their families, as they begin to confront challenges as they age and live life on their own terms.

Note to reporters: AARP has a series of info-graphics and polling results to provide further insight on Generation X that are available upon request.

For more information about Generation X please visit: aarp.

org/GenXinsights About AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanishlanguage website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates.

The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www. aarp.org.

SOURCE: AARP

HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 18

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Your Horoscope for the Week of January 1, 2016 READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE

by Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950

ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM

Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct

Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April

Get yourself on schedule. Take the time to put everything into a better perspective before you go any further. Your ambitions and hopes are one in the same, right now, to get ahead. Others may threaten to put your plans on hold, but you’ll be able to change their minds with your charm and wit. You’ll be able to come up with all the right answers to their questions. Your style will shine. A good challenge will reaffirm your convictions.

You know that the most important person to keep happy is you yourself. If you play your cards right, you’ll be able to do both, benefiting yourself & other around you.

Reorganize yourself before taking on any additional responsibilities. Step up to bat for someone who really needs a break. Encourage others to spread themselves as well.

Try to be a positive force rather than a negative one. Once you feel more like a mentor, your creative ideas will flow.

Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May Be willing to cooperate when others want to do things differently, listen to others, they might be telling something which may benefit you not now but later. Don’t spend too much energy planning a schedule that will be revised more than once. You’ll be moved by a sudden passion for justice, but you need to take your time and think things through before you act. There are reasons for rules, and you need to look at things from a different perspective to understand them more clearly.

Reach your goals, with hardly any effort on your part. You like the way things are and want to order more of the same. Try to calm yourself down, go about your business and don’t be jealous of those on top. Your constant support will encourage others to go the distance for you. Cherish your friendships and you’ll never feel alone, again. A friendship could even turn into something stronger.

Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June You will have an opportunity to do something great, this week. So, pay attention all around you. If you miss this opportunity then it will come after a long time. Problems in your personal and professional relationships could hamper you from reaching your goals. Old routines will make you feel old and dull. Break away from the way things used to be. Awake and find new ways to enjoy yourself.

The fact your mind seems too restless for you to sit still. You are able to think at a very hThink quickly on your feet. Questions will be asked and you’ll have to have all the right answers. Dare to dream your dreams but your ideas may need to be presented in a more creative fashion. You’ll get a lot more if you use honey instead of vinegar to attract your audience. Use your mind and body to display your talents and achieve what is beyond other’s range.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Find your place among family & friends, they need you. You need to make them feel your presence out of your busy schedule. You’ll be unusually observant about everything. Your insight will have a greater impact if you deliver it with a little more passion.

You may have felt a little out of the loop, lately, but that was only because your mind was in a solo mode. Get out there enjoy the wonderful wealth of family and friends you possess.

Seem confident, reliable and intelligent at all times. Especially when you feel you’re in over your head. Don’t blow it all by wishing for the stars. Aim high, but be more realistic. Keep your ears open for the topics that you have stronger knowledge on.

Think before you talk and all will go well. Pay closer attention to others and they will acknowledge your good standing in the community.

Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August

Find your own little niche. You want to be the one who will make the final decisions in your personal life. You not only will find but you will be able to perfect your own career. You’ll be riding high with confidence. Your impulses will fuel the positive flow.

Be rid of friends or partners who cannot agree on what direction they are going in. Instead of wasting your time and energy, try going solo in a more focused way.

Keep a secret to yourself, talk wisely. Don’t talk much just talk what is needed.

Otherwise it will lead to misunderstandings. Intense emotions will threaten to tell the world, but you know you can’t reveal your sources. A little issue you bring up could trigger something much larger. Others will be hurt if you do. Focus on ways to use your new found information, in a positive light. Get back to doing the things that you love to do. By week’s end, you should try to stay out of trouble by keeping to yourself.

Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Use your sense of humor to get your point across. Really that will be the only key to success in your communication & expressing your views in a right way. But, Loud & rude people should stay clear of you. Your patience will be tried but your logic will prevail. You really do know your stuff and now’s the time to show it. You are exactly where you need to be. Everybody has been rallying around something new and improved. However news this week, will pronounce you the winner.

QR

Make positive things happen, yes you will have potential to make it happen. You prefer to work behind the scenes, however this week you’ll be in the limelight. Work your magic with your positive attitude and contagious smile. Tired, old concepts could block the possibility of something completely wonderful. Push away the negative and take a different approach. Express your feelings clearly before allowing assumptions to start to work against you.

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FRIDAY, January 1, 2016

Houston Community College Request for Proposal (RFP) Bookstore and Related Services Project No. 16-23 Documents can be obtained at: www.hccs. edu/district/departments/procurement.

Sealed proposals will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11A06, Houston, Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Wednesday, January 27, 2016.

Houston Community College Request for Qualification (RFQ) Labor & Employment Legal Services Pool Project No. 16-22

Documents can be obtained at: www.hccs. edu/district/departments/procurement.

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TRAVEL Tips to Make Holiday Road Trips Merrier

PHOTO SOURCE: (c) Africa Studio - Fotolia.com

H

itting the road for the holidays? You’re not alone. Nearly nine in 10 Autotrader shoppers plan to travel by car this holiday season, and nearly a quarter will travel more than 300 miles, according to a recent poll. But experts say there’s no reason to view road trips as a chore.

“Holiday travel doesn’t just have to be about getting to where you’re going,” says Tara Trompeter, managing editor at Autotrader. “Family time in the car can be a great opportunity for making memories and a little bit of planning before you get on the road will go a long way toward filling the experience with more fun and laughter.”

To keep holiday road warriors comfortable and content on their drives, Autotrader editors are offering their top holiday travel tips:

sphilip@llppc-law.com

• Prepare your vehicle. Do a quick check on the essentials before you head out. Check the wear and pressure on your tires, and be sure your fluids (oil, coolant and wiper fluid) are topped off.

• Make it an adventure. Just because you have an ultimate destination doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy fun stuff in between. Check your route for family-friendly stops along the way, such as a zoo, park or even toy store to give kids something to look forward to while breaking the trip into manageable pieces.

• Keep little ones engaged.

Technology features like built-in screens and DVD players can be saviors on the road. If your car doesn’t come equipped with these, consider bringing along a handheld device on which little ones can play games or watch videos.

And if technology isn’t your thing, magnetized board games and word games can work just as well.

• Bring snacks. Greasy food isn’t the best for staying alert -- or feeling good -- while road tripping. Instead of relying on fast food, bring along lots of small, healthy snacks to keep kids (and adults) content. Great options include fruits and vegetables that are easy to eat and fuss-free, like carrot sticks, bananas and apples.

• Have patience! Between road congestion, frequent stops and the sometimes bad weather that plagues many areas this time of year, holiday travel time can take longer than anticipated. Allow and plan for extra travel time, and you’ll have a better chance of arriving safely and stress-free.

• Consider an upgrade. Before setting off, consider upgrading your old gas-guzzler to a new one that’s energy efficient and comfortable enough to make the long journey with the family in tow. To help, Autotrader rounded up a list of 10 fuelefficient family cars for a long holiday road trip that boast affordability, roomy interiors and a fuel efficient 30 miles per gallon on the highway. Among their picks are the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Honda CR-V, Jeep Cherokee, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Optima, Mazda CX-5, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Outback and the Toyota Camry. To learn more, visit autotrader.com.

With the right strategies for happy holiday travels, you can begin your vacation the second your wheels hit the road.

Courtesy: StatePoint

VOICE OF ASIA 20

FRIDAY, January 1, 2016