Voice of Asia e paper October 13 2017 by VoiceOf Asia

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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Serving Harris, Fort Bend and Surrounding Counties for 30 years Vol. 30 No. 40 Friday, October 13, 2017 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 24 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com

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VOICE OF ASIA 3 2018 Medicare coverage changes Read on Page 18 Call 832-806-1000

Serving Harris, Fort Bend and Surrounding Counties for 30 years

Vol. 30 No. 40 Friday, October 13, 2017 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 24 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com

Gov. Abbott appoints Draksharam to State Commission on Judicial Conduct

Sujeeth Draksharam

USTIN, October 4, 2017 Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Sujeeth Draksharam and Darrick McGill to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct for terms set to expire November 19, 2021. The commission regulates the conduct of the state judiciary, including the power to recommend for retirement, censure, suspension or removal of a judge from office. Sujeeth Draksharam of Sugar Land is the President of Sirrus Engineers, Inc. He is a member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Association of State Floodplain Managers. Additionally, he volunteers with various community groups including the Harris County Street Olympics and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Draksharam received a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Nagrajuna University in India and a Master of Science in civil engineering from the University of Houston. Darrick McGill of Georgetown is the regional vice president with Primerica, Inc. He is chairman of the Georgetown Health Foundation and a board member of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce, Rotatory Club of Georgetown and St. David’s Foundation. He served in the United States Army as an Apache attack helicopter pilot, having separated from active service as a Captain, and continues to serve as a Warrant Officer in the United States Army Reserve. McGill received a Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and a Master of Science from the College of Financial Planning.

IACF’s Sold Out Harvey Relief Fundraiser Donates $251,000 to Mayor Turner’s Fund for Harvey Relief by Shobana Muratee

OUSTON – A sold out fundraiser was held by IndoAmerican Charity Foundation (IACF) on Saturday, October 7, at the Stafford Civic Center, only this time it was for a humanitarian cause that affected thousands of Houstonians who were hit by hurricane Harvey recently. On the gala night IACF presented a check Marching Toward $251,000 to Mayor Sylvester Turner’s Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. The program began with the ceremonial lamp lighting by Bimla Jain and Deepika Agrawal and National Anthems USA and India by Chloe Choudhury and Srisanvitha Sridhar respectively. Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Jerry Davis received the check from Chef Guest Swatantra Jain, whose single contributions of $50,000 along with IACF President Dr. Vanitha Pothuri’s $25,000 boosted the IACF’s fundraising efforts in the shortest amount of time. Mr. Davis also received the “Humanitarian Award” on behalf of Mayor Turner. The event was tentatively on hold in lieu of a post- Harvey situation that Continued on Page 5

From Left to Right: IACF President Dr. Vanitha Pothuri, Mrs. Bimla and Chef Guest Swatantra Jain seen presenting the check to Houston’s Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Jerry Davis on Saturday Oct. 7, 2017. Photo credit Roy Photography.

Abe nears two-thirds majority in Japan election: polls

OKYO, Japan | AFP | 10/11/2017 - Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s ruling coalition is heading for a two-thirds majority in Japan’s forthcoming election, surveys suggested Thursday, as a new party founded by popular Tokyo governor Yuriko Koike runs out of steam. Abe’s conservative Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its junior coalition partner Komeito are likely to win around 300 of 465 seats in the October 22 election, according to polls by Kyodo News and the Nikkei business daily. Mass-circulation Yomiuri Shimbun said the LDP could secure a stable majority on its own, without needing its coalition partner. A two-thirds majority in parliament would allow Abe to push through an amendment to Japan’s pacifist consti-

tution. The hawkish premier has called for changes to the US-imposed law so it can turn its self-defence forces into a full-fledged army. Support for Koike’s newly founded Party of Hope, which has transformed Japan’s political landscape and swallowed up the main opposition Democratic Party (DP), appears to be deflating, with surveys predicting it might win around 60 seats. A new centre-left grouping of DP members that did not jump on the Tokyo governor’s bandwagon could clinch 40 seats, according to the Yomiuri survey. After an initial surge of support for Koike, critics say the Tokyo governor has suffered by not running herself in the election, meaning voters for her

Shinzo Abe appears to be riding high in the polls party are not sure who they are electing as PM. The Asahi Shimbun daily said that Abe also appeared to be gaining from a divided opposition.

The 12-day election campaign, which kicked off Tuesday, will focus on reviving Japan’s once world-beating economy and tackling the ever-present threat of North Korea which has threatened to “sink” the country into the sea.

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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS A Peace Prize that honors the quest VOICE OF ASIA T

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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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

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. Although paid advertisements may appear in Voice of Asia Group Publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, the Voice of Asia Group does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. - The Publisher

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he Norwegian Nobel Committee awarded the Peace Prize on Friday to a group that worked on an international treaty to ban nuclear weapons, while acknowledging that the treaty would not in itself eliminate a single nuclear weapon. So why the award?

The winner, the International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons (ICAN), promoted talks at the United Nations that resulted in a treaty banning the development, ownership or use of all nuclear weapons. But the nations that actually possess such weapons, including the United States, boycotted the effort. The American argument, hard to dispute, is that the United States cannot easily abandon nuclear weapons when countries like North Korea are making them and threatening to use them. To which the Norwegian committee’s response, based on the history of the prize, would be that the more elusive the goal, the more important it is to encourage those trying to reach it. Woodrow Wilson won in 1919 for championing a League of Nations his country never joined; the 1927 Prize was shared by French and German diplomats who worked on “Franco-German reconciliation”; in 1995 it went to Joseph Rotblat and the Pugwash Conferences for “their efforts to diminish the part played by nuclear arms in international politics.” However quixotic their goals, these were the “champions of peace” Alfred Nobel envisioned in his will. And there were laureates whose causes were arguably advanced by the prize, like Lech Walesa of Poland and Bishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa. There were also awards that raised eyebrows, like those to Yasir Arafat, Yitzhak Rabin, Shimon Peres, Henry Kissinger, Le Duc Tho (who refused it), or Jimmy Carter — or the prize bestowed on Barack Obama a scant nine months after he took office. Questions were raised last year when the prize went to President Juan Manuel Santos of Colombia for a peace agreement his countrymen rejected before the prize was announced. But Mr. Santos has not given up on securing peace, and that is what the committee encouraged and honored. There is bound to be controversy over any award that looks for champions of peace in that complex zone between reality and the ideal. In her arguments against American

The International Campaign to Abolish Nuclear Weapons activists protesting near the American Embassy in Berlin last month (Photo: Omer Messinger/Getty Images) participation in negotiations on the nuclear ban last March, Nikki Haley, the United States ambassador to the United Nations, told reporters, “There is nothing I want more for my family than a world with no

nuclear weapons. But we have to be realistic.” We are realistic, the Nobel Committee declared in effect — we do not expect that this award will eliminate nuclear

weapons. But, reversing Ms. Haley’s argument, that is all the more reason to encourage those who seek a world with no nuclear weapons. (-Courtesy: The New York Times Editorial Board)

Statewide flood plan is vital, and overdue

here are two ways a Texan could react to news that the House Committee on Natural Resources wants to develop a statewide plan to reduce the risk of flooding. One would be to congratulate the committee for addressing an obvious need. Another would be to ask why a plan like this wasn’t developed years ago. We favor the second. Harvey dumped record-setting amounts of rain on Houston and Southeast Texas, which led to record-setting floods. But neither region of Texas has been spared rising waters from inland rain or storms coming in off the Gulf of Mexico. The devastating April 2016 flood in Houston produced headlines such as, “Is Houston America’s flood capital?” In fact, it’s a rare year that Houston or Southeast Texas - and many other regions of this state - don’t get a serious

Getty Images

flood of some kind. Against this backdrop, the need for flood planning - years ago - should be obvious. Nothing would have stopped Harvey’s devastation, but better planning could have reduced it. Some homes and businesses wouldn’t have been built where they were, and better drainage could have moved along more water before other sites were flooded for the first time in memory. At long last, state officials are wading into this challenge. The deputy administrator of the Texas Water Development Board said the goal is “looking at the floodplain maps, what is the vintage of those maps, are they still applicable. And then, there’s also parts of

the state that we don’t have floodplain mapping at all.” Obviously, cities and counties must buy into this process too. They know local topography and drainage systems better than anyone. Instead of handing out building permits to whoever asks for one, these officials should guide some of that growth to places that won’t flood so quickly - or at all. The Water Board hopes to have this plan ready for the next regular session of the Legislature in 2019. It should meet that timeline, and lawmakers should follow with the funding and legislation the people of Texas need. (-Beaumont Enterprise Editorial Board)

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IACF’s Sold Out Harvey Relief Fundraiser Continued from Page 3 practically crippled the city. IACF members, including doctors, were actively involved in various relief and rebuilding programs around Houston. Dr. Pothuri welcomed the gathering of 600 guests and spoke about the four pillars of giving towards better health, education, family needs, and general welfare that IACF is built on and fostered by its leadership. Dr. Pothuri thanked Swatantra Jain for his generous and timely support to IACF and in turn, Harvey Relief. She also acknowledged all those who had been instrumental in her journey with IACF and the community thus far. Jain congratulated Dr. Pothuri for a sellout event in such a short span of time. “We are here to celebrate our love for the city with support to rebuild it. Harvey may have battered Houston but most certainly has not fractured our spirit of giving,” he said and urged all to support the rebuilding process. He also mentioned several other Indo-American organizations that were involved in raising funds that has crossed a million dollar mark already. Gala Chair Swapnil Agarwal lauded the efforts of IACF and recognized Houston Vice Mayor Pro-Tem Jerry Davis (Dist. B) and Surendra Adhana, Deputy Consul General of India, Houston, along with some of the community leaders. Other elected officials and dignitaries present were Sam Merchant representing Congressman Al Green, Houston City Councilman Dr. Steve Le, District F, Councilman Himesh Gandhi, City of Sugar Land, Councilman Ken Mathew, City of Stafford. The IACF that was founded in 1988 with a mission to help the underprivileged originated with the effort to fight hunger, and has now developed into a multi-faceted philanthropic endeavor to help those in need of health, education and human

services in the Greater Houston Area. With its motto “We Live Here, We Give Here,” IACF recognizes all those believe in this philosophy as Friends of Charity. This year fifteen exceptional individuals were honored in this category: Aleen Arabit, CEO of Kindred Hospital Houston Northwest, Ravi Arora, PE, community leader, Aparna Asthana, child advocate, Nirupama (Roopa) Balakrishnan, IT Specialist, Manisha Gandhi, serves on board several non-profit of Houston, Ashok Garg, engineer and owner of Allied Exports Inc., Lutfi Hassan, founder of Apex Group of Companies, Rajiv Gadgil and Sheshadri Kumar, publishers of India Herald, Jugal Malani, Chairman of Unique Group of Companies, Jawahar Malhotra, publisher, Indo-American News, Hasu Patel leading hotelier and businessman, Viji Raman past IACF board member is involved in various organizations in Houston, Bashist Sharma, founder of Sharma & Associates, PC, Connie Kwon-Wong, founder of Connie Kwon-Wong Foundation that helps abused children, and Asheet Yagnik, Sr. VP at Merrill Lynch. IACF also honored “Angels of Charity”, couples active with various philanthropic organizations. Fifteen couple took center stage as they were being honored: Bela and Rajiv, Devina and Dilip Bhojwani, Dr. Ashima and Anand Chauhan, Rose Chen and David Webster, Pallavi and Swapan Dhairyawan, Rajee and Krishna Hari, Tracy and Harry Faulkner, Shyda and Sajid Khan, Dr. Kokila and Prakash Parikh, Dr. Disha and sanjau=y Poonia, Dr. Supriya and Prem Ramanathan, Teresa and Dr. William Reading, Joya and Vikas Shukla, Kalpana and Arun Singh, Dr. Mythili and Upen Varnasi. Event Chair and IACF President-Elect Mahesh Wadhwa proposed a vote of thanks and recognized the support os sponsors, donors, vendors and the IACF Board members that in-

clude: Immediate Past President Nanda Vura, Treasurer, Sreeni Nakirekanti, Joint Treasurer Venkat Iyer, and Secretary, Shobana Muratee, Directors: Alpa Shah, Shweta Arora, Dr. Ramesh Cherivirala, Joseph Ellankil, Dr. Gopala Kovvali, Dr. Purvi Parikh, Dr. Ratna Kumar, Dr. Ajay Jain, Dr. Sushovan Guha, Dr. Bela Thakar, and Prem Cholia. Special thanks to event planner Judy Black, Em-

Dance performance by students of Anjali School of Performing Arts.

IACF’s ‘Friends of Charity’ honorees

IACF’s ‘Angels of Charity’ honorees cees: Amber Elliott and Chau Nguyen and the young volunteers. The entrainment heightened

the mode with the song ‘Hero’ by Chloe Choudhury and rendering of award winning author Chitra Divakaruni’s poem with classical dance interpretation

by Dr. Ratna Kumar, Director, Anjali School of Performing Arts. Dr. Ratna’s students also presented a dance item on the occasion. The highlight of the

event was the Teddy Pledge Drive conducted by the lively Dr. Subodh Bhuchar. The event concluded with a hearty dinner by Daawat.

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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Century Fine Arts hosts Open House by Susan Pothanikat

UGAR LAND - On Saturday, October 7th, Century Fine Arts, located at 3527 Hwy 6 S. Suite #220, Sugar Land, TX, held their first Open House to showcase the talents of their amazing students and staff. Families and friends gathered to hear first recitals of their young ones as well as from the experienced staff members: Dominique McCormick, Elizabeth Curtin, Laura LeVoir, Keith Weber, Sean Stone-Ashe and Madeline Rodriguez. Students sang popular Disney theme songs and some staff members entertained the audience with Italian operas. Others played instruments with love song melodies to take the audience back to a different time period.

UGAR LAND – Laura Martinez, M.D., and Neel Srikishen, M.D., have joined Houston Methodist Urology Associates’ practice in Sugar Land. Both have been a part of the Houston community for several years and are looking forward to providing excellent urologic care in the Sugar Land and greater Southwest Houston area.

Dominique speaking with her students before the performance

Dominique playing the piano, Laura LeVoir singing opera Colorful artwork by K8 the heARTIST™ adorned the halls to inspire the creativity which is found inside all who enter Century Fine Arts. Photography by Sadie Sanders was also on display. Century Fine Arts has only been open for a less than a year. It all started with a casual conversation between a music teacher and a voice student. The talented student approached the teacher with an idea of building a school that focuses on the interdisciplinary aspects of the arts:

Houston Methodist Urology Associates welcomes new physicians

Guests enjoy the musical performance in Century Fine Arts ensemble room.

music, theater, visual arts, and dance. Immediately realizing what a golden opportunity and gift this would be for the Fort Bend community, the teacher and student went to work on the idea. A collaboration based on a mutual vision of “Planting the seeds of creativity” they forged ahead with a significant path filled with construction plans and curriculum ideas. These series of events resulted in the creation of Century Fine Arts, an establishment that is geared towards nurturing talents and inspiring dreams.

Leonard, Funder, CEO and Dominique McCormick , Director of Century Fine Arts, “are committed to giving our students every opportunity to discover their love for the fine arts and encourage a wide exposure to all art forms. We believe that music and art is omnipresent in one capacity or another. At Century Fine Arts we hope you’ll consider us to mentor you on your artist journey.” For more details about Century Fine Arts, visit: http://www.centuryfinearts. com.

can Urological Association; Society of Women in Urology; and Society of Urodynamics, Female Pelvic Medicine and Urogenital Reconstruction. She will begin seeing patients in August. “I am thrilled to stay within the Houston Methodist family by joining Houston Methodist Urology Associates,” said Martinez. “I’m passionate about providing quality, personalized care, and Houston Methodist offers a welcoming environment of respect and compassion for both patients and physicians alike.”

Srikishen is a general urologist with experience in robotic, laparoscopic, microscopic, transurethral and open urologic surgery, as well as office-based urology. Srikishen joins the Houston Methodist Sugar Land team from Baylor College of Medicine, where he completed his urology residency. While there, he conducted a number of clinical research projects in several areas of urology, includLaura Martinez, M.D., and Neel Srikishen, M.D. ing the use of robotic surgical simulators. An alumnus of Martinez comes to Sugar Land from Rice University and University of Houston Methodist Hospital, where Texas-Southwestern Medical School, she recently completed a fellowship in Srikishen will begin seeing patients in continence, pelvic reconstructive sur- September. gery and neurourology. Prior to that, “Houston Methodist places great she completed her residency at the value on being at the forefront of University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. She earned her medical medical advancements, and that comdegree from Baylor College of Medi- mitment shows in the care that the cine and her undergraduate degree patients receive,” he said. “I’m very happy to be a part of this team and from Rice University. have the opportunity to make a differMartinez is a member of the Ameri- ence in the lives of my patients.”

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Maestros of Sur and Soul enthrall Houston with their music

Vocalist Pandit Suman Ghosh (center) is synonymous with purity and authenticity in Hindustani Classical Music (Photos courtesy Tanvir Mohammed and Mythri Pullela) Article by Sunanda Vashisht and Sasi Raghavan

TAFFORD - On Friday, September 29th, Maestros of Sur and Soul came together to hypnotize the audience assembled at the Stafford Civic Center. Saadhana Sur Sang, a concert series rapidly growing in popularity, was another impeccably organized presentation of the Center for Indian Classical Music of Houston (CICMH). CICMH, spearheaded by renowned classical Vocalist, Pandit Suman Ghosh, is synonymous with purity and authenticity in Hindustani Classical Music. This program was dedicated to Houston’s spiritual healing after the extreme challenges faced by our city due to Hurricane Harvey. The concert began with an eloquent speech by the chief Guest, Honorable Mayor of Stafford, Leonard Scarcella. He awarded Pandit Ghosh a proclamation in recognition of his excellence, commitment and contributions to Hindustani Classical Music and declared September 29th as ‘Pandit Suman Ghosh Day’ in the City of Stafford.

For the first time since its inception 14 years ago, C I C M H presented its Founder’s concert under its banner. For this special occasion, Pandit Suman G h o s h , presented H a v e l i Sangeet, a genre of music re- Pandit Bhattacharya (left) with Shri Subrata Bhattacharya on Tabla vived by his Guru, Sangeet Martand Pandit Jasraj-Ji. Pandit Ghosh was ably accompanied Pandit Ghosh’s renditions in a variety of raags were technically awe inspiring and steeped in Bhakti Bhaav (devotion). One could feel the very presence of Lord Krishna and there was not a dry eye in the audience. Even after the intermission was announced, the audience continued to stay seated, reveling in the spiritual crescendo that Pandit Ghosh had taken his rendition to.

on Tabla by well-known performer and Guru, Pandit Shantilal Shah, and on vocals by his talented disciples Apurva Ghosh, Prasun Kolhe, Jaytirth Mahoorkar and Shashank Trivedi. Together they mesmerized and created a magical evening. In the second half, the inimitable Santoor maestro, Pandit Tarun Bhat-

Pandit Suman Ghosh was presented a proclamation by Stafford Mayor Leonard Scarcella. tacharya took the stage. With his deft and nimble handling of the Santoor, Pandit Bhattacharya unfolded the melodious Raag Rageshree. His elaborate and unhurried portrayal brought alive the beauty of the raag and his virtuosity in handling in his instrument. Like a master sculptor, Pandit-Ji chiseled each part of the Raag deftly with masterly accompaniment on Tabla by Shri Subrata Bhattacharya.

The Master of Ceremony, Shri Suresh Raghavan, adeptly held the entire musical evening together with his splendid articulation. Thanks to CICMH, the evening was indeed invigorating and spiritually elevating, providing solace, musical succor and inspiration to all present and leaving them eagerly looking forward to what CICMH will bring to them next!

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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VOICE OF ASIA 8

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

HCC Central College President named to Prestigious Commission

O U S TON (October 9, 2017) – The president of Houston Community College’s (HCC) Central College has been appointed to a special commission by a national education organization. The American Association of Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi Community Colleges (AACC) named Dr. Muddassir Siddiqi Studies and Programs, an to its Commission on Global international education conEducation. Dr. Siddiqi says sortium of over 25 commuhe is honored to receive the nity colleges, to dramatically appointment. “I believe that expand international faculty global education plays an in- and student exchange procreasingly important role in grams and cultural tours. He enriching students’ learning also worked with faculty and experiences in U.S. institu- staff to create a comprehentions of higher education.” sive campus internationalThe purpose of the AACC ization plan that integrated commission is to provide a international education goals forum for focused conversa- into academic and student aftion on global education and fairs strategic planning proto advise the organization’s cesses and outcomes. board and staff. In naming Dr. Siddiqi to the commission, Dr. Walter Bumphus, president and CEO of the AACC said, “Your insight and leadership will significantly contribute to the board’s decision-making process.” Dr. Siddiqi has an extensive background in international education and business. He worked a dozen years for multinational corporations in six countries. His tenure in higher education is marked by successful implementation of campus internationalization activities. At his previous institutions in Illinois, Dr. Siddiqi worked with the Illinois Consortium of International

Dr. Siddiqi received his undergraduate education in Pakistan and Afghanistan and also pursued postgraduate studies in Singapore, Thailand and the Netherlands. HCC Chancellor Cesar Maldonado said, “Dr. Siddiqi’s international business and educational experience makes him an invaluable asset to HCC. His appointment to the Commission on Global Education is well deserved.” Dr. Siddiqi said he looks forward to representing HCC on the commission. “I am excited by this appointment and welcome the opportunity to share my experience and HCC’s values with commission members.

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

THE LOSS OF A SPOUSE: Aftermath, How to Adjust and Cope With life WHEN: Sunday, October 29, 2017 TIME: 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM WHERE: India House 8888 West Bellfort Avenue, Houston, TX 77031 In this Seminar we will have presentations addressing what to do after a spouse passes away. Information from funeral arrangements to informing appropriate people, understanding and applying for Social Security beneeits and dealing with Wills and managing Family Finances will be provided. Panel of Speakers include community members who have recently experienced the death of their spouse and experts who can address inancial and other issues. (Intent of the meeting is to provide general information of the various areas that need to be tackled as the survivor settles into a different way of life. It is not meant to be precise advice. Individual circumstances do vary and need to seek professional or expert help as needed.)

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VOICE OF ASIA 11

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

Sini Mathews, mother of missing Indian-American Manoj Bhargava invents a new power point Richardson girl is ‘distraught’

n attorney representing the mother of a missing 3-yearold girl in Richardson said Wednesday that the woman is “distraught” over the disappearance of her daughter. Attorney Kent Starr met with Sini Mathews at the family’s home and then briefly addressed reporters outside. Starr said Mathews has spoken with Richardson police and is cooperating with police. He said all she wants is for her daughter back and is “very hopeful that her daugh-

ter will be returned.”

on bond.

The child, Sherin Mathews, was last seen at 3 a.m. Saturday by her father, Wesley Mathews, who told investigators that he told the child to stand outside after not drinking her milk, police said.

Police have said the girl’s mother was asleep and is not facing charges.

The father reported the child missing about five hours later, police said.

Speaking as to why Sini Mathews has hired an attorney, Starr said everybody has a right to legal council and the fact the Wesley Mathews may be accused of a crime is not indicative that his wife is involved.

Wesley Mathews was arrested Saturday on a child endangerment charge, and he was released Sunday evening

“There has been no accusations of wrongdoing against Ms. Mathews,” Starr said. (-NBCDFW)

11-year-old describes moment her father Sayantan Ghose was shot to death in 911 call By Jessica Willey

EAGUE CITY, Monday, October 09, 2017 -- An 11-yearold girl details the moment her father was shot to death in just-released 911 calls. “Please send someone over right now, please,” the girl pleaded with the operator on the night of June 28. “My mom’s ex-husband, um. He, like, literally stalks us and he’s at our house right now and I knew he would come on my birthday because it’s all because of me. Just, please, come over here. Come over here as fast as you can.” The girl and her best-friend were still in the car in the driveway of the family’s League City home on Mayhill Ridge Lane, watching the situation escalate from confrontation to murder. She called 911 as her mother was on the phone with them, too. “He’s my ex-husband. My name is Amanda Harris. I have an ongoing case against

him. He’s been told by the police to stay away. He’s been trespassing. He’s been stalking me for years,” Harris told the operator about her ex-husband, Sayantan Ghose. The two divorced in December 2008. The family had just arrived home to find Ghose at her door. Harris and her husband, Wayne Harris, grabbed their guns. A 17-year-old son made another 911 call from inside a closet where he was hiding with his 3-year-old sister. “Stay in the closet. Stay hidden in the closet,” the operator said to him. “I’m trying. I’m trying,” he replied. It didn’t take long for things to get worse -- screaming followed the gunfire. “Get away from my gun. Get away from my gun,” Amanda Harris is heard saying on her 911 call. “I just heard gunshots. I just heard gunshots -- four

or five,” the 17-year-old told the operator. “My dad’s shot. My dad’s shot,” the girl relayed. Wayne Harris was shot at least seven times and died. Amanda Harris, shot twice, survived. Ghose took off and was arrested the next day in New Mexico. He smiled for his mugshot when he was brought back to face charges for the murder and shooting. He remains in the Galveston County jail on a $1 million bond. “How many times do you have to be told not to come to my house? We’ve been divorced since 2009. 2009!” Amanda Harris screamed at Ghose before the shooting. Harris declined an interview but told Eyewitness News, “Seems like we all died that dreadful evening. We are so lost without him (Wayne Harris). He was such an amazing man, father and husband.” (-KTRK/ABC 13)

Manoj Bhargava with the Hans Power Pack in New Delhi, Tuesday.

Philanthropist Manoj Bhargava with his PowerPak generator (Photo: TNN)

EW DELHI: Oct 11, 2017 - IndianAmerican philanthropist Manoj Bhargava sees electricity as an enabler. It can help people make a living and “solve some of the biggest problems faced by the rural poor in India”, says the worldfamous billionaire. Bhargava has showcased three products, which he thinks could improve lives in rural India. One of them is the HANS PowerPack, a portable electricity generator that could be used as a torch, and charge cellphones and run computers, fans, TV sets etc. Bhargava said this technology could provide electricity wirelessly. “Wires are heavy, expensive and high maintenance. With the powerpack, people wouldn’t have the problem of power theft,” said the founder of the Billions In Change movement. The 3.5kg portable device can be charged through a special solar panel in less than

four hours. It comes with a 12-year warranty, which Bhargava says “is the most anyone can give in India”. Bhargava believes this technology would change lives just like cellphones. The Uttarakhand government would also obtain 1 lakh powerpacks to provide power in villages where it’s difficult to erect poles. Two other products showed by Bhargava are RainMaker filtration unit and Shivansh Fertiliser Maker.

said. The Shivansh Fertilizer method is a cost-free alternative to urea. It is made from farm waste. The whole process takes 18 days “and is available online for anyone willing to learn and teach the farmers who can bring dead soil back to life within one planting season”. This natural method, Bhargava said, is effective as it uses less pesticide and water, and could increase yield.

Since most diseases in India are caused by poor drinking water, “our goal is to give people clean water so they can be healthier, more productive, and experience higher quality of life,” Bhargava said.

Bhargava also said that it’s the private sector that should be innovating and assisting people. “The government’s heart is in the right place, but without proper instruments and means, not much can be achieved,” he said.

The RainMaker makes dirty water usable, effectively creating new water sources. This could be critical in drought-hit areas. “These machines have the potential to push off water crisis for several years, and possibly decades,” Bhargava

At length, however, Bhargava said he has no plans of manufacturing in India as he believes it is tough to do business in this country. But he hoped things would change for the better soon. (-TNN)

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

VOICE OF ASIA 13

VOICE OF ASIA

VOA

voiceofasiaonline.com

Section 2

BUSINESS

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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Longtime local jewelers bid Adieu by Shobana Muratee

OUSTON - India Jewelers - located in the Mahatma Gandhi District on Hillcroft - has a long history of 27 years, and people here have a special bond with the owners, the Kamnani family. After the passing of the patriarch Raj Kumar Bhagwan Kamnani, who opened the first store of Indian art in the Galleria in 1971 and later India Jewelers on Hillcroft, brothers Narain and Gobind Kamnani carried his legacy until now. On Friday, October 6, the Kamnani family hosted their annual Diwali party at their glittering store which was also their farewell and retirement party, since they announced the closing of store earlier this year. Commemorating 47 years of their business in the Bayou City, Gobind and Narain Kamnani are offering a storewide 40% discount on all Diamond jewelry and up to 50% off on all fine art, collectables from around the world. Raj Kumar Bhagwan Kamnani and Leela Devi Kamnani who passed away in 2016 on Diwali day came to the US with their three sons Surender, Narain and Gobind and two daughters Dhanwanti and Mohini 1985. The boys worked at their father’s store and learnt the intricacies of the jewelry trade.

Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism

Gobind Kamnani and wife Chandani. Image on the right customers at India Jewelers (Photos by Shobana Muratee)

Gold and diamond jewelers get pricy around this time of the year due to the Hindu festival season. The grand sale coinciding with Dusheera and Diwali (The Festival of Lights) when it is considered auspicious for buying gold, is a great way to give back to the community that supported the business over the years. Dr. Lalitha Raman, a biophysicist and retired PW Deputy Director, City of Houston, who was at the party said she has been dedicated customer since their store opened at the Galleria. After 40 years of association she is now part of the family, she said. There were numerous others who shared the same feeling at the farewell party that evening. With the closing of India Jewelers, a part of Hillcroft in Houston will come to an end. But Kamnanis are here to stay as a family and a new chapter will emerge as they take time off before they start their new business. The sale screams “Everything Must of the speech is a Go!”, whichLack includes award winning original paintings, sandalwood carvings, ceramic coffee tables, retired Lladro pieces, collectible coins, and much more. “The list is endless…”

Narain Kamnani with Dr. Lalitha Raman at their store on Hillcroft.

Surender Kamnani with wife Mamta and daughters.

Goldman sign of autism. Learn the Sachs others at autismspeaks.org/signs. creates ‘brain trust’ G

oldman Sachs Group Inc. is betting it can get its money-

making mojo back by pitching creative deals to big, complex clients, marking

a return to its investment banking roots as trading revenue slows.

and market trends that hurt the bank more than rivals.

The new “brain trust,” as one insider called it, is aimed at supercharging investment banking revenue as trading, for many years Goldman’s profit engine, has faltered amid regulations

The group is expected to come up with out-of-the box ideas and focus on clients who want to acquire or make big investments in businesses across industries. (-Reuters)

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LIFESTYLE / LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Activists condemn craze for wild animal selfies

RASÍLIA, Brazil | AFP - The craze for tourists taking selfies alongside wild animals then posting on Instagram is fueling cruel treatment of iconic species in the Amazon, activists warn.

Indian one-man band blows, strums and sings against smoking

UMBAI | AFP - Indian musician Gladson Peter strums the ukulele while blowing into a harmonica and smashing a cymbal using his foot as children from one of Asia’s biggest slums clap and cheer.

The charity World Animal Protection said in a report that Instagram has seen a 292 percent increase in wildlife selfies since 2014 around the world. Of these, more than 40 percent involved humans “hugging or inappropriately interacting with a wild animal.”

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

Peter feared that he would never play wind instruments again. Doctors said the disease could be exacerbated by passive smoking. So last year he decided he would form a one man band, playing 11 instruments, as

World Animal Protection said in the report released Tuesday that the animals are captured and often battered to make them perform for tourism businesses. “Behind the scenes these animals are often beaten into submission, taken from their mothers as babies and secretly kept in filthy, cramped conditions or repeatedly baited with food that can have a long term negative impact on their biology and behavior,” the group said. “All too often, to the unsuspecting tourist, the cruelty that makes these animals submissive and available is entirely invisible.”

After the pink river dolphin, the most common selfie animal in the Brazilian city of Manaus is the three-toed sloth. (Photo: AFP)

This is officially the Best Bar in the world Indian one-man-band singer Gladson Peter performing in a church in Mumbai (Photo: AFP Relax News)

The practice is rife in the Amazon region, with 61 percent of the species involved listed as needing international protection by the worldwide Convention on the Trade of Endangered Species, or CITES, according to the charity. In the Brazilian Amazon city of Manaus, for example, 18 tour companies said they offered opportunities on 94 percent of trips to “hold and touch wild animals as photo props.” The most common selfie animal there is the pink river dolphin, then three-toed sloths, caimans, green anacondas and squirrel monkeys. “There is good reason to believe that most sloths being used for tourist selfies don’t survive even six months of this treatment,” the report said. It listed examples of animals being kept in dire conditions for the selfie trade, including a manatee held in a small tank in front of a hotel and a giant anteater “manhandled and beaten” by its owner. Roberto Cabral, coordinator for enforcement at the Brazilian environmental institute Ibama, told AFP that keeping animals for tourist selfies is illegal. In comparison to the scale of illegal trafficking of animals, the problem is “minimal,” he said. However, he also pleaded with visitors not to support the trend. “The irony is that the tourist who usually takes photos with an animal is the same tourist who likes animals but is now contributing to that animal’s distress,” he said.

Peter, who can play 45 instruments, claims to be India’s only one-man band and enjoys something of a fan following for his renditions of popular songs, including Ed Sheeran hits.

We’ll drink to that! (Photo: The Savoy) by Bailey Bennett

he World’s 50 Best Bars of 2017 have just been announced, and one could say this year’s list has been both shaken and stirred. This time, the No. 1 spot went to London’s American Bar in the Savoy Hotel, an establishment that took the No. 2 spot in 2016, while last year’s winner, The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog in New York City, fell to 5th place. The list, now in its 9th year, is voted on by more than 500 drink experts from around the world, and is meant to be the definitive international guide to sipping the best of the best. Owned and organized by William Reed Business Media, the organization is also responsible for each year’s highly anticipated list of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants. This year’s U.K. winner is helmed by Erik Lorincz and Declan McGurk, and has been a staple of the cocktail world for over 125

years. The World’s Best calls it a “perfect bar” and “one of the most important cocktail destinations open today.” London’s American Bar isn’t the only representative from the U.K. on this year’s list, with London’s Dandelyan, Connaught Bar, and Bar Termini all breaking the top 10. Still, the U.S. takes the prize for the country with the most winners at 13, including seven bars in New York. They include The NoMad at No. 3, Dead Rabbit at No. 5, Attaboy at No. 8, Dante at No, 16, Blacktail at No. 32, Employees Only at No. 37, and Mace at No. 42. Other U.S. winners hail from San Francisco, Miami, and Chicago. As for Houston, it was in 2009 that mixologist Bobby Heugel opened Anvil Bar in the Montrose district and changed the way generations of Houstonians drank, possibly

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The 24-year-old, a keen musician since the age of three, performs to raise awareness about the dangers of passive smoking after he lost part of a lung as a teenager. “My shows are the hook through which I share my messages that can change someone’s life. Many people have come up to me and apologised for tobacco consumption and have quit smoking,” Peter told AFP. At college in his late teens two holes caused by tuberculosis were found in one of his lungs.

forever. Since then, Heugel’s empire has expanded. There’s his ode to craft beer in Hay Merchant, just down the street from Anvil. Downtown, he has a hand in the OKRA Charity Saloon (where a portion of the proceeds goes to the needy), the Nightingale Room (cocktails plus vinyl and live music) and the Pastry War. You can’t go wrong at any of those bars, but contemporary Houston’s bar

part of his own anti-smoking awareness campaign. “We built the equipment in a week, rather miraculously, and I kickstarted my performances,” said Peter, who has since played around 200 concerts across India. The instruments in his repertoire include guitar, melodica, bass drum, slide whistle and tambourine. He now plays 13 at once using a kit that weighs around 25 kilogrammes, no mean feat given his weakened lungs. “Though I cannot even run half a mile, my faith keeps me going and when I wear all the instruments and become the one-man band I feel empowered,” he said scene is far bigger than one man. This one-time shot-and-a-longneck kinda town has blossomed into one of the nation’s most respected bar scenes. Asia is also well-represented on the 2017 list, with Singapore taking six wins (including the new bar Atlas at No. 15) and other winners in Shanghai, Taipei, Tokyo, and Hong Kong. See the full list (and start planning a boozy trip around the world) at worlds50bestbars.com (-Travel + Leisure)

LEGAL

VOICE OF ASIA 15

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

The People’s Lawyer

YOUR IMMIGRATION LAWYER

www.peopleslawyer.net

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

Payment is “due” on due date Sharlene Sharmila Richards Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center

Q. I co-signed for someone who bought a car. He stopped paying and I had to pay $3,000 to settle the account. Can I recover this money from the person I co-signed for?

Q. I may my bills by mail. My due date is the first of the month and I have a ten-day period before they charge a late fee. I always mail my check by the tenth day. The company has begun charging me interest and a late fee. How can I be charged a late fee if I can prove my payment was mailed before the due date?

A. As you seem to understand, when you co-sign you must pay in the event the person you co-signed for does not. If you do not pay, it can adversely affect your credit rating and you could even be sued for the debt. If you pay, however, the law gives you the right to be reimbursed by the other party. I suggest you speak with the person for whom you co-signed, and if you can’t work things out, send him or her a certified letter asking for payment. If you still are not reimbursed, file a claim in justice court.

A. First, the “due date” for your payment is the first of the month. That is the date it expects to receive payment. The ten days are a “grace period” to give you time to remit your payment so it can be received before any penalties are imposed. Payment due means payment arrives, not that it is mailed. You chose to mail your payment, and you are responsible for insuring that it arrives before the end of the grace period.

This also is a good time to remind everyone about the dangers of co-signing. In my opinion, you should never co-sign unless you are ready and able to pay. When a creditor asks for a co-signer, he is basically saying he has doubts that the other person will pay and wants a co-signer as a guarantor. As a co-signer, you should have the same doubts, and consider the consequences when the person for whom you co-signed defaults.

The simple way to avoid any penalties is to mail your check promptly after your receive your bill. In my opinion, an even better way is to arrange to make your payments online. Almost every company has a way to pay your bill online and your payment is then received on the day you click “submit.” Check your next statement to see what it says about online payments.

Q. I had a car accident. The person who hit me won’t tell me the name of his insurance company. I don’t believe he even has insurance. The damages to my car are not extensive

and I was not seriously hurt, but I will think he should pay. Am I out of luck? A. This seems to be a common question. I should first point out that driving without insurance is unlawful and the person could be subject to a substantial fine and loss of his license. Promptly reporting the accident to the police is one way to find out if the other party has insurance. As far as liability, insurance really is not relevant. If the person who hit you caused the accident, he is liable for your damages. Whether he has insurance does not change his liability. If the amount of your damages is under $10,000, I suggest you file a claim in justice court. If you file suit, the other person probably will bring in his insurance company, if he has insurance. If he doesn’t have insurance and doesn’t pay a judgment in your favor, he could lose his drive’s license and car registration. Q. I heard you have a consumer newsletter. How do I subscribe? How much does it cost? A. You heard correctly. I publish my Consumer Alert Newsletter by email three times, every week. Each issue contains useful information ranging from shopping and budgeting hints to legal updates. The newsletter is free, but you must subscribe at my website below.

Do you want to know more about your legal rights? Check out my website, www.peopleslawyer.net And if you have a question about a legal problem related to Hurricane Harvey, call 713-743-2165.

India House Houston

Q: My wife currently holds H-1B status and her employer is interested in hiring her permanently in the United States. She has a Bachelor’s Degree. What are the employment preference categories? A: The employment based (EB) categories that at available for immigration are divided into five subcategories. They are: First Preference (EB1) category is for aliens of extraordinary ability, outstanding researchers and professors. Second Preference (EB2) category is for members of the professions holding advanced degrees or Persons of Exceptional Ability. Third Preference (EB3) category consists of Skilled Workers, Professionals and other workers. The remaining two categories are EB4 for religious workers and certain special immigrants and EB5 for investment green cards. In your wife’s case, depending on her degree and experience, the employer will most likely have to file for her under EB2 or EB3. It is advisable for the employer to consult with an immigration attorney to decide which preference category will work best for your wife’s situation. Q: What is PERM labor certification? A: The employment green card process begins with the PERM Labor Certification. PERM Labor Certification is required for most employment based second preference (EB2) and all third preference (EB3) immigrant petitions. To file PERM Labor Certification (ETA Form 9089), the petitioning employer must first obtain what is known as a prevailing wage determination for the specific job from the Department of Labor. Once the prevailing wage has been determined, your employer must

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Q: My employer’s PERM has already been approved. Can I now file for permanent residence? A: Before you can file for permanent residence (adjustment of status to permanent resident), your employer must first file a Form I-140 Petition to classify you as an Immigrant Worker. You can file the application to adjust status concur-

You priority date is A: the date when your immigrant petition was filed. For EB1, it is the date when your Form I-140 was filed. Disclaimer: Any advice provided in this article is general in nature and not intended to constitute legal advice for any specific case. Please consult with an immigration lawyer about the specific circumstances of your case.

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

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A: Typically, you must first have an approved PERM Labor Certification unless you are applying under the National Interest Waiver category. Under EB2 you must also have an advanced degree or a bachelor’s degree and at least five years progressive experience in the profession. In addition, the qualification you have must be one that is warranted as a minimum requirement for the designated job. If you are possess ‘exceptional ability; meaning having a degree of expertise significantly above that ordinarily encountered, the Labor Certification is waived. Your exceptional ability will be determined by factors such as the type of degree you hold, your extensive experience in the particular field, recognition for your achievements including contributions to your industry or field etc.

Q: My case was filed under EB1 Preference Category and did not need PERM Labor Certification. What is my priority date if I my case did not need a PERM Labor Certification?

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Q: What is required to apply under EB2 Preference Category?

rently with the I-140 petition only if your priority date is current at the time. If it is not current, then your employer must only file the I-I40 petition and you have to wait until your priority date becomes current before you can file your adjustment application. For PERM Labor Certification cases, the priority date is the date the PERM Labor Certification was received by the Department of Labor. The waiting period for the priority date to be current depends on your preference classification (whether EB2 or EB3) and your country of chargeability.

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then perform various recruitment activities to demonstrate that there are no qualified U.S workers willing and able to take the job. Once these have been completed, the PERM Labor Certification for the prospective employee can then be filed with the Department of Labor. The Department of Labor will certify that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the specific job with the employer. The Labor Certification must be certified before the employer is able to file the I-140 Petition for permanent residence for the prospective employee.

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VOICE OF ASIA 16

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

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VOICE OF ASIA 17

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

BOLLYWOOD - HOLLYWOOD

Section 2

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Tel: 713-774-5140

Houston celebrates 9th Indian Film Festival

Director Suman Ghosh, Director John Upchurch and Festival Director Sutapa Ghosh (Photos courtesy IFFH)

he 9th Indian Film Festival of Houston (IFFH 2017) captivated festival-goers this past weekend at the Asia Society Texas Center on October 6th and 7th with cinema for the soul and the mind. The Festival showcased 6 films - documentaries, shorts, and feature films, along with Q&A sessions with the directors, actors and producers in Asia Society Texas Center’s state-of-the-art Brown Foundation Performing Arts Theater. This year is especially fulfilling coming after the events of Hurricane Harvey that brought out the best on Houston and stands testament to its indefatigable spirit - Houston Great, Texas Proud! IFFH 2017 captivated festival-goers with emotional tales involving distant poignant memories and tales of endurance, both mental and physical. The 9th Indian Film Festival of Houston welcomed Festivalgoers with tastefully-decorated turquoise draperies at the venue entrance, matching table cloths and colorful floral rangolis. Both evenings featured cocktail receptions, sizzling Indian appetizers by Nirvana and

entertainment by Moodafaruka. Indian Film and Television actor, Iqbal Khan, did a fabulous job as the Master of Ceremonies for both the evenings. Among the attendees were several members of Houston’s consular corps, city and state representatives, as well as, Houston’s art and culture community and audience members whose numbers seem to swell each year. Founder and Festival Director, Sutapa Ghosh, welcomed festival -goers to the opening day’s festivities and paid tribute to the spirit of the city, the volunteers, first responders, city, state and federal agencies who worked tirelessly to get Houston open for business. A film professional in her own right, with a couple of award-winning movies with India’s famed director, Rituparno Ghosh, Sutapa reminded the audience that she has enjoyed bringing IFFH to life for the past 9 years and expects that we will see something big for the 10th year. Stay tuned Houston! City of Houston’s Councilman Michael Kubosh, presented a glowing

IFFH Board Members with the winners of IFFH Awards 2017, Suman Ghosh and Navroz Prasla.

proclamation on behalf of Mayor Turner, who was out of the country, recognizing IFFH and Sutapa Ghosh for their contribution to the Houston community. The Indian Deputy Consul General Mr. Surendra Adhana thanked the IFFH team for sharing the deep roots of Indian culture in today’s cinema and bringing it to Houston. The opening night’s feature film “Mango Dreams” with first-time director John Upchurch was a fan favorite and explored the unlikely bond formed between a Hindu doctor with dementia and a Muslim auto rickshaw driver as they cross India in search of the doctor’s childhood home. The closing film “The Argumentative Indian” was a documentary about the life and work of India’s Renaissance Man and Nobel Laureate, Amartya Sen who was widely regarded as one of the greatest living intellectuals of the world. All three of the IFFH 2017 winners dealt with the subject of education and showcased immense personal struggles. Best Documentary Film: “The Ar-

Stephanie Todd Wong, Director of Performing Arts and Culture, Asia Society, Leda Burkle, IFFH Board Member, Sutapa Ghosh, Founder and Festival Director, Amey Prakash, IFFH Board President and Rick Ferguson, Executive Director of Houston Film Commission. gumentative Indian”, directed by Suman Ghosh Best Short Film: “Azaad”, directed by Rahul Chittela. Best Feature Film: “Kshitij: A horizon”, directed by Manouj Kadaamh

IFFH 2017 brought some wonderful soul-stirring films, presented them in a beautiful ambience and provided rich memories. Here’s looking forward to celebrating a decade of the Indian Film Festival in Houston next year.

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VOICE OF ASIA 18

Voice of Asia

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

Section 2

You can avoid strokes and heart attacks with these two household fruits: study

HEALTHY What is hyperthyroidism? (Part 1)

IRMINGHAM, Alabama, Monday, 10/9/2017 - Can’t get enough avocado toast? How about a nice green smoothie?

An enlarged thyroid gland (called a goiter), which can appear as a swelling at the base of the neck

Keep feasting, because the potassium in avocados and bananas could help prevent heart attacks and strokes, according to a new report. Researchers from the University of Alabama at Birmingham recently conducted an experiment, published in Journal of Clinical Investigation, to determine the link between potassium and healthy arteries. To do so, they examined mice and gave them high-fat diets, where the critters were given either small, average and large amounts of potassium. fter analyzing the results, they found that mice that con-

Manjula Raguthu MD,FAAFP,ABAARM

A green smoothie always is a healthy, filling treat (Photo: Fotolia) sumed the least amount of potassium had harder arteries, while mice that had a large amount of potassium had more flexible arteries. - Why is that? -

As people get older, the heart arteries stiffen, which can cause heart attacks and strokes. However, there are nutrients that can loosen them, such as potassium. “They demonstrate the benefit of adequate potassium supplementation on prevention of vascular calcification in atherosclerosis-prone mice, and the adverse effect of low potassium intake,” she said in a statement. Despite the results, researchers are not sure if their results are relevant to humans. However, they think they are promising as potassium is associated with several human diseases. “Reduced dietary potassium intake has been linked to the pathogenesis of a variety of human diseases, including atherosclerosis, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease,” the study said. “All of these disease share common vascular complications, such as vascular calcification.”

How about some banana chips and guacamole dip? (Photo: Fotolia)

Scientists hope to conduct more studies to solidify her their findings. Learn more about their experiment here. (-Cox Media)

Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid disease, means your thyroid gland makes and releases too much thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland is located in the front of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. It makes hormones that control your metabolism. Metabolism is the pace of your body’s processes and includes things like your heart rate and how quickly you burn calories. Hyperthyroidism can affect your metabolism. It can also cause nervousness, increased perspiration (sweatiness), rapid heartbeat, hand tremors, difficulty sleeping and weight loss. Hyperthyroidism usually begins slowly, so its symptoms can be mistaken for stress or other health problems. It can cause a variety of symptoms, including: • Weight loss • Rapid heartbeat, irregular heartbeat or pounding of the heart • Nervousness, anxiety or irritability • Tremors (trembling of the hands and fingers) • Changes in menstrual patterns (usually lighter flow, less frequent periods) in women • Increased sensitivity to heat • Increased perspiration

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• Changes in bowel patterns

Older adults may have subtle symptoms, such as increased heart rate, increased perspiration and a tendency to become more tired during normal activities. Symptoms

crease their activity so that they make too much hormone. • Thyroiditis. A problem with the immune system or a viral infection causes the thyroid gland to become inflamed and produce extra thyroid hormone that leaks into the bloodstream. Treatments

If your hyperthyroidism is caused by Graves’ disease, you may also have Graves’ opthalmopathy, a disorder that affects your eyes. These symptoms may show up before, after or at the same time as your symptoms of hyperthyroidism. In Graves’ opthalmopathy, the muscles behind the eyes swell and push the eyeballs forward. Often, the eyeballs will actually bulge out of their normal position. The front surfaces of the eyeballs become can dry, red and swollen. You may notice excessive tearing or discomfort in your eyes, sensitivity to light, blurry or double vision, and less eye movement. In more than 70% of cases, hyperthyroidism is caused by an autoimmune disorder called Graves’ disease. Normally, antibodies produced by the immune system help protect the body against viruses, bacteria and other foreign substances. An autoimmune disease is when your immune system produces antibodies that attack your body’s tissues and/or organs. With Graves’ disease, antibodies produced by the immune system stimulate the thyroid, making it produce too much hormone. Doctors think Graves’ disease may run in families. It is most common among young women. Two other common causes for hyperthyroidism include: • Hyperfunctioning thyroid nodules. One or more nodules or lumps in the thyroid grow and in-

• Blood stream and is absorbed by overactive thyroid cells. Radioactive iodine causes the level of thyroid hormone in the body to decrease. Symptoms usually subside in 3 to 6 months. Permanent low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) usually is the final result, but this can be treated with thyroid supplements. Despite concerns about radioactive material, this treatment has been used for more than 60 years without causing any problems. Most adults in the United States who develop hyperthyroidism are treated with radioactive iodine. • Anti-thyroid medicine. These drugs treat hyperthyroidism by blocking the thyroid’s ability to produce hormones. Symptoms begin to improve in 6 -12 weeks but treatment usually continues for at least a year. Dr. Manjula Raguthu has been a family physician for 26 years. She is specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She is a member of the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American Medical Association, American Physicians of Indian Origin, Texas Academy of family Physicians and American Anti-Aging Academy. She takes a holistic approach to health, uses Bio identical hormones and integrative therapies to achieve optimal health for her patients. Visit www. medwinfamily.com for more details.

2018 Medicare coverage changes Changes to be aware of for 2018 include: Starting in April 2018, Medicare beneficiaries will begin receiving new Medicare ID cards that don’t have Social Security numbers on them. This change was announced in September 2017, and it’s an effort to combat identity theft and fraud. The new cards, which will be mailed out over the course of a year (all beneficiaries will have them by April 2019), will have randomly generated ID numbers instead of Social Security numbers. You can continue to use your current card until your new one arrives. Once it does, you’ll want to destroy and securely dispose of your old one, and begin using the new one instead. • Medicare recipients reaching the donut hole will benefit from better prescription drug discounts. The gap in prescription drug coverage (the donut hole) starts when someone reaches the initial coverage limit ($3,750 in 2018), and ends when they have spent $5,000 (these thresholds are each $50 higher than they were in 2017). Prior to 2011, Medicare Part D enrollees paid the full cost of their medications while in the donut hole. But the ACA has been steadily closing the donut hole, and it will be fully closed by 2020. At that point, enrollees will pay just 25 percent of the cost of their drugs all the way up to the catastrophic coverage threshold. For 2018, while in the donut hole, enrollees will pay 35 percent of the cost of brand name drugs (down from 40 percent in 2017) and 44 percent of the cost of generic drugs (down from 51 percent in 2017). The Medicare Part D deductible will be $405 in 2018, up slightly from $400 in 2017. • Medicare Part B premiums will fluctuate again for 2018. In 2017, most Medicare Part B enrollees paid an average of $109/month for their Part B premium, although enrollees with income above $85,000 had higher premiums. But the standard premium for Medicare Part B was $134/month in 2017. The reason most enrollees paid an average of only $109/month was because the cost of living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security wasn’t large enough to cover the full increase in Part B premiums. For 70 percent of Part B enrollees, their premiums are deducted from their Social Security checks, and net Social Security checks cannot decrease from one year to the next (the “hold harmless” provision). The COLA for 2017 was only enough to cover about four dollars in additional Part B premiums, so the $134/month premium for 2017 only applied to enrollees to whom the “hold harmless” provision didn’t apply. COLA numbers for the coming year aren’t released until October, but it’s widely expected that there will be a COLA of around 2 percent for 2018 (as opposed to 0.3 percent for 2017, and zero percent for 2016). • New income brackets for Part B enrollees with high incomes. As part of the Medicare payment solution that Congress enacted in 2015 to solve the “doc fix” problem, new income brackets were created to determine Part B premiums for highincome Medicare enrollees. The new brackets take effect in 2018. For Medicare purposes, “high income” begins at $85,001 for a single individual, and $170,001 for a married couple. Enrollees with income between $85,001 and $107,000 ($170,001 and $214,000 for a married couple) won’t see any changes to their bracket. But enrollees with income above those limits may find that they are bumped

Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6776 Southwest Freeway, Suite # 178 Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com into a higher bracket. The highest bracket (i.e. with the highest Part B premium) will now apply to those with income above $160,000 ($320,000 for a married couple), whereas the highest bracket didn’t apply in 2017 until an enrollee’s income reached $241,000 ($428,000 for a married couple). The Medicare Part B premiums for 2018 have not yet been set, but slightly less wealthy Medicare enrollees will begin paying the highest prices for Medicare Part B in 2018. • Medicare Advantage plans continue to see changes. While healthcare reform is slowly reducing rebates paid to Medicare Advantage plans, these plans continue to be popular. 31 percent of Medicare recipients were enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan in 2016 – a significant increase from the enrollment total in 2009 when the ACA was signed into law. Most Medicare beneficiaries should receive their Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) and Evidence of Coverage (EOC) from their existing Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plan providers by Sept. 30. CMS will make information available to the public on Medicare. gov in October. The Medicare website is also a tremendous asset for individuals with questions about Medicare rules, timelines, Medicare Part D, etc. It’s important to carefully review the information sent to you by your plan provider, since this will cover any possible changes. For example, increasing co-pays, changes to drug formularies or changes to treatment coverage. Once open enrollment gets underway, you can make changes that reflect your current health coverage needs. To understand various Types of To choose right Medicare Advantage Plan, Medicare Prescription Drug Plan, OR Medicare Supplement Plan for 2018 contact-771-2900.

VOICE OF ASIA 19

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

LIVING

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Gene test ‘narrows down Skipping breakfast may double breast cancer risk’ risk of hard arteries: study by Jenny Walrond

by Kerry Sheridan

ONDON - A gene test informing women how likely they are to develop breast cancer could soon be used on high-risk groups.

IAMI | AFP | People who skip breakfast or eat poorly to start the day are twice as likely to develop hardened arteries, which can lead to deadly heart disease, researchers said Monday.

The Manchester researchers behind the test said it could reduce the number of women having surgery to remove their breasts, by narrowing down their risk.

The study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology uncovered signs of damage to the arteries long before symptoms or disease developed. Researchers said their findings could offer an important tool in the fight against cardiovascular disease, the world’s top killer, which took 17.7 million lives in 2015, according to the World Health Organization. “People who regularly skip breakfast likely have an overall unhealthy lifestyle,” said study author Valentin Fuster, director of Mount Sinai Heart and editor-in-chief of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. “This study provides evidence that this is one bad habit people can proactively change to reduce their risk for heart disease.” The report was based on 4,000 middle-aged office workers in Spain. Participants were followed for six years. About one in four ate a highenergy breakfast, which included 20 percent or more of the day’s calories. Most people in the study -70 percent -- ate a low-energy breakfast that gave them five to

The test, on blood or saliva, looks at 18 genetic variants known to affect the chances of getting breast cancer. (AFP Photo/MANDEL NGAN) 20 percent of their daily calorie intake. Three percent said they skipped breakfast altogether or ate very little. This group “tended to have more generally unhealthy eating habits and a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors,” said the report. People who skipped breakfast also “had the greatest waist circumference, body mass index, blood pressure, blood lipids and fasting glucose levels,” it said. Researchers used ultrasound technology to scan participants for signs of fatty deposits in the arteries, or early evidence of disease. They found that people who ate less than five percent of their recommended daily calories at breakfast had, on average, double the amount of fatty buildup in the arteries as people who ate a high-energy breakfast.

ened arteries among people who skipped breakfast or ate little to start the day appeared independently of other factors, such as smoking, high cholesterol and physical inactivity. Previous studies have shown that eating a healthy breakfast is linked to good health, including a lower body weight, healthy diet, and lower risk of problems with cholesterol, blood pressure and diabetes. Skipping breakfast has also previously been shown to raise the risk of coronary artery disease. “Although breakfast skippers are generally attempting to lose weight, they often end up eating more and unhealthy foods later in the day. Skipping breakfast can cause hormonal imbalances and alter circadian rhythms,” said Deedwania, professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco.

This heightened risk of hard-

Jolie had a double mastectomy, and her ovaries and fallopian tubes removed (Photo: AFP/File)

Cancer charities said it would have a real impact on women and lead to fewer being diagnosed with the disease.

Being able to narrow down a woman’s individual risk will mean they are better informed about whether to have a mastectomy or not, he says.

Prof Evans wants the test to become more widely available, eventually allowing all women to find out their likelihood of developing breast cancer.

The Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) test will initially be available for patients having tests at St Mary’s Hospital and Wythenshawe Hospital in Manchester for BRCA1 and 2 gene mutations, with a family history of breast cancer.

By combining the results of the test with information on breast density, the age a woman has children or reaches puberty, women are given a percentage change of developing breast cancer within the next 10 years, and throughout their lifetime.

He said: “This is a massive game changer for breast cancer where we now have tests which can give accurate risk in the whole population, those with a family history and those with BRCA mutations.”

BRCA has been dubbed the ‘Angelina Jolie gene’ after the actress revealed she had surgery on learning she had up to 87% chance of developing breast cancer.

Becky Measures had a mastectomy 11 years ago at the age of 24 after learning she carried the BRCA1 gene mutation.

That is the figure quoted to all women with a BRCA gene mutation, but in fact their risk of cancer is much more complex than that, and different for every person. Prof Gareth Evans, who led the research into the test at Manchester University Foundation Trust, says women with a BRCA mutation have a risk of breast cancer somewhere between 30% and 90%.

She is due to have further risk-reducing surgery to remove her womb and ovaries in the next four months and has welcomed the news. “When they find that they have the BRCA1 or 2 gene, many women fear that they have to take action immediately. “The new test will give women more options and help them to make a more informed decision,” she said. - Accurate risk -

Prof Evans’ team has been working with Cambridge University and researchers in the US, Australia and Europe to look at samples from 60,000 women. Within two years they hope to have improved the gene test to include up to 300 genetic variants that are known to affect the likelihood of developing breast cancer. - Better choices They are also investigating whether they can use their work to understand how genes increase or reduce the risk of developing prostate, uterine, ovarian, lung and colorectal cancers.

Can Yoga Help Those Undergoing Chemotherapy goes for everything which is in that stage of development.

is no way to shoot just those things. You will have to shoot all of them at once.

A Calculated Risk Rejuvenating From Chemo

Yoga Session at Isha Inner Engineering

hemotherapy can be devastating on the patient’s body. But yoga can help a person rejuvenate and bounce back much more easily. Q: Is there any guidance that you can give for people who are going through the pain of chemotherapy, to reduce the stress on the body and help them to come out of it more easily? Sadhguru: What you call as chemotherapy is a complex cocktail of medicines and poisons together. The basic form of chemotherapy is a bunch of chemicals, which is an extract from mustard gas – a very destructive chemical. But now, the choice that we are making is between death and damage. We choose to damage the body a little bit because otherwise it could be death. It is a very

aggressive way of treating the system, but in the last decade, chemo is administered with much more expertise than it was earlier. Initially, if someone went through chemotherapy, all their hair would fall out and so many things would happen. This is not so anymore because they have counter drugs for that. Plus, today they are fixing canisters in the body, which allow a gentle release of chemo. It is not really chemical warfare anymore. It has become very mild – like industry, it poisons you slowly! But the chemicals that you put into the system are incapable of identifying what is cancerous and what is a healthy cell. They can just calibrate this cocktail of medicines in such a way that they only affect those cells which are in a certain phase of cell growth. It is not capable of identifying beyond that, so it

That is a calculated risk we are taking and above all, no chemo really destroys all cancer. It is just that if it gives you a certain level of relief, the system may handle it beyond that point. The problem is, with chemo, all the cells across the board – whether healthy or otherwise – cannot multiply, so the rejuvenation system in the body is seriously affected. That is a medical decision a doctor has to make and there is no single standard. I think how individual doctors administer it is very different from person to person. With some people, it causes very little reaction. With other people who may do it a little more aggressively, it causes much more reaction. There is no perfect formula there. It is the doctor’s judgment, based on the reports that he has and his skill. People want to go to a particular oncologist mainly because of a certain level of expertise, which someone might have gained over a period of time. This is not a perfect science, but you want your house to be free of insects, so you fumigate the whole place. You also get a little poisoned in the process but it is okay because you cannot live with them there. This is what has happened to the body. There are some things you want to get rid of but there

Now, how do you recover from this? The main problem here is that cell multiplication is affected, the DNA is affected, and the protein necessary for the multiplication of the cells is taken off. This affects the rejuvenation process, which can lead to a variety of problems if it goes beyond a certain point. We know there are substantial problems but I do not think anyone has really looked at how many problems. After the chemo period is over, the main thing is the cell multiplication should be brought back to normal. That is, the rejuvenation process of new cells replacing the old cells must be brought back to normal as quickly as possible, for which there are various practices we can introduce. Bhuta shuddhi or anything that you do with the elements can do tremendous things. I know a few people who never went for any medical treatment after they were diagnosed with cancer. The only thing they did was spend four to six hours a day in fresh water, doing certain things. By immersing themselves up to the neck in the ocean, a river, a pool or something like this, they came out of their cancer without any medical treatment. Medicine is only looking at how to kill the cancer cells,

while the yogic systems look at how to improve the healthy cells, so that they can take care of cancer by themselves before it even develops. It is a possibility that you can come out of it just by being in touch with water, but not everyone has the necessary strength to do such things. Above all, it is not worth taking the risk. When you have been diagnosed with cancer, the best thing is to go through the treatment and then do other things so that recurrence does not happen. There are many practices in the yogic system, but with cancer, the risk levels are so high and the time allowed is so little, we do not usually take a chance with that. For recovery from the effects of chemo, the elemental processes that we do can be of immense value and people can regain their rejuvenation process very effectively. General exercise will also have a positive impact, but if you do the right kind of yogic practices along with bhuta shuddhi and a proper diet, the body’s ability to bounce back to its normal rejuvenation scale should happen quickly. If it does not happen quickly, your cancer may be gone but you may not have the joy of being healthy, simply because the body will pull you down in many ways when the rejuvenation process is not good. Spiritual leader and founder of Isha Foundation, Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev, was conferred

the Padma Vibhushan award by the Government of India on 13th April 2017. Sadhguru is a contemporary yogi rooted as strongly in worldly and pragmatic matters as he is in inner experience and wisdom. He has served as a delegate to the United Nations Millennium Peace Summit and the World Peace Congress and has been a regular speaker at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He has also been a speaker at the Australian Leadership Retreat, Tall berg Forum, World Presidents’ Organization, TED, Tuck School of Business and the British House of Lords. Isha Foundation is a non-religious, non-profit organization with over 200 centers worldwide and over one million volunteers. Isha Foundation will be conducting a 4-day Inner Engineering Program in Houston, Texas from November 2-5, 2017. This 4-day program offers the rare opportunity to experience life transforming wisdom from an Isha Teacher trained by Sadhguru. Inner Engineering – a practical approach for inner transformation in a fast-paced world. The course designed by Sadhguru presents simple, yet powerful tools for an individual to experience life on a deeper level with more awareness, energy, and productivity. To learn more or to register visit www. InnerEngineering.com/Total or email houston@ishausa.org or (832) 408-0663.

FASHION & STYLE

VOICE OF ASIA 20

Gauri Khan’s decor advice is a must-read for anyone redoing their home

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

Petite Fashion Week runway a hit in Madrid

by Nitya Chablani

ndeniably, 2017 has been a busy one for Gauri Khan. While the initial months of the year had the celebrity interior designer putting together a dreamy, all-white nursery for Karan Johar’s twins Roohi and Yash Johar, Bollywood fans got a glimpse of Khan’s work on the filmmaker’s party-ready terrace this April, and just when you thought she couldn’t possibly fit more projects into her schedule, Bandra restaurant Arth opened its doors to the public this June, spotlighting Khan’s signature interiors (think sparkling chandeliers, cosy couches and a monolithic bar) over two floors spanning a 5,000sqft space. And that’s not all. Just as the buzz surrounding Arth was beginning to quiet down, Khan has yet another milestone moment to share with the world: the opening of her flagship store, Gauri Khan Designs. “It’s been an exciting experience, seeing it all come together,” she tells Vogue about the Juhu space. “I’ve been influenced by my travels across India and the globe. I take a keen interest in the architecture of places when I travel.” With an aim to become a “one-stop destination for everything in interiors, which is accessible to all kinds of people, their different tastes, and budgets,” Gauri Khan Designs offers home accents from known designers including Roberto Cavalli and Ralph Lauren. And for fans of Khan’s trademark, luxe aesthetic, the store houses special finds from the expert herself. “Shoppers can expect a range designed by me at the store,” Khan says. “Gauri Khan Designs has bespoke furniture for your living room, and the outdoors too!” What makes a visit to Gauri Khan Designs even more intriguing: the space’s interiors follow a layout similar to that

Models on the runway during ‘The Petite Fashion Week’ at the Cibeles Palace on October 6, 2017 in Madrid, Spain . Some of the models at the show are from the Garrigou Foundation, which helps kids and youth with special abilities in Madrid. (-Photo: Carlos Alvarez/Getty Images Europe)

Located in Juhu, Mumbai, it has been visited by Bollywood stars and the cities most influential residents (Photo: Vogue India) of Khan’s much-talked-about Bandra bungalow, Mannat. “Mannat unfolds at every level, with a unique and distinctive concept on each floor. Gauri Khan Designs is similar in that aspect.” Can’t wait to check it out? Scroll through our slideshow for a peek into Khan’s brand new space, and don’t miss what the design pro had to say about her Gauri Khan Designs journey.

vice in her book

On the best compliment she’s received lately

On the one interior trend she’s never, ever going to approve of

All my friends have been very supportive and very sweet about Gauri Khan Designs, but since I have actually designed Karan [Johar]’s terrace and nursery, it speaks a lot about his faith and trust in my work. On the ultimate styling ad-

Keep it simple, classic and don’t mix too many styles together. On husband Shah Rukh Khan and kids AbRam, Suhana and Aryan’s reactions to her work They have loved all the designs, and are looking forward to seeing my outdoor collection for Gauri Khan Designs.

Combining floral prints with contemporary furniture. On the three coolest things you’ll find at her flagship space Cushions and throws by Ro-

Alicia Keys and Stella McCartney in breast cancer campaign

ARIS, France | AFP US singer Alicia Keys and fashion designer Stella McCartney launched a new breast cancer awareness campaign Monday aimed at African American women who have much higher mortality rates than white women.

want to really encourage people to break the taboos and go and get checked.” She said statistics have shown that African American women have a 42 percent higher chance of cancer mortality from breast cancer than white women due to lack of access to early screening and prevention programmes.

The British designer, whose mother Linda died from breast cancer in 1998 aged 56, will give a percentage of the proceeds from a new pink lingerie set to the Memorial Sloan Ket-

McCartney, in Paris for her label’s fashion week show, said, “Sadly I lost my mother to breast cancer 19 years ago. She didn’t meet my children.”

berto Cavalli, because they add a good finishing touch to any interior space, Ralph Lauren’s gift gallery, as you can always buy something for your loved ones, and the grey classic couch designed by me for Gauri Khan Designs. (-Vogue India)

tering Breast Examination Center in Harlem which provides free testing in New York City.

The designer has run three previous annual awareness campaigns fronted by models Kate Moss, Cara Delevingne and comedian Chelsea Handler.

“This really resonates with me because I was brought up in Harlem and my mother is a breast cancer survivor,” Keys said in a campaign video. “We

Some of the money raised will also go to the Linda McCartney Centre at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital in Britain, which helps cancer patients.

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ATTORNEY AND COUNSELORS AT LAW 56 Sugar Creek Center Blvd., Suite 100, Sugar Land, TX 77478

• Integrity • Dignity • Competence • Over 30 years of Immigration Law Practice. • Family law cases, employment cases and select criminal matters. • Former District Directors for Immigration, Thomas Fischer, Roger Piper and Former Consul General, Thomas Hutson serve as Special Advisors to the Firm. • Former Immigration Judge Jimmie Benton, and Regional Counsel serve as ‘Of Counsel’ to the firm. • Providing representation for Canadian Immigration through our Alliance with a prominent Canadian law firm. • Handles Legal Needs in India Related to Sale and Purchase of Property, Estate Planning and Marital Matters, in Association with an Indian Law Firm.

Over 16 languages spoken by our Firm’s staff. • Deportation • Naturalization • Investment Visas

• Professional Visas • Skilled Worker Visas • Canadian Immigration

GEORGE R.WILLY Principal Attorney

• Employment based • Family based • Select Criminal

Special Advisors to the Firm

Thomas P.Fischer

Jimmie Benton

Roger Piper

Thomas R.Hutson

Pauline Appelbaum

Attorneys at the Firm • Houston • Canada • Ahmedabad, India

James Ahmad Beag Chughtai W. Parker (281)-265-2522 • (888)-529-5990

Chiranjaya “Chiro” Nanayakkara

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VOICE OF ASIA 21

PUBLIC NOTICE

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 22

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

Your Horoscope for the Week of October 13, 2017 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 Your impeccable charm will help you to handle your responsibilities with strong authority and creative style. Important details may be overlooked by those who do not care. You need to oversee everything of any importance. Pace yourself so that you don’t get too tired or run down. Since you may not get the time to play that you wanted, find ways to enjoy whatever it is that you have to do. Even if you don’t accomplish much, at least you’ll have a good time doing it. By week’s end, your life will feel stirred up into a romantic flurry.

If you try to push the process faster, something will hit the fan. Unfounded suspicions and accusations will only make others more uncomfortable. It’s better to keep quiet than to be negative. A surprise will shake things up and provide you with some answers. Try to be as discreet as possible. You’re ready to accept the news but not everybody is. If you expect the circumstances to change, you’ll be ahead of the competition. By week’s end, you should take a couple of days to just lay low and wait.

Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May You have a great network of allies that can provide you with some solid support. Partnerships will bring you more resources than if you try to go it alone. Listen to reason rather than emotion. If you start to promote your own ideas others will find it hard to deny your requests. By week’s end, you should try to slow down your pace a little so you don’t forget certain details that are important to you. You’ll need a cool and level head while others are losing theirs. A secret will be revealed in time, so you’d better learn to wait.

Others are the same as always, but your perception of them will change radically. Be aware that your words and your actions will affect them greatly. You can probably talk your way out it, but everybody is watching to see the outcome. Stay calm and your confidence level will rise. Everybody wants security, but their concepts may be different than yours. Your job is to find some common ground and then to start from there. Call for a truce and really listen to others’ opinions. Seek the help of those who want to be productive instead of destructive.

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

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June You may need to fulfill a family obligation that you almost forgot about. You’ll realize that your personal relationships need more attention than you’re giving them. Someone who you’ve recently pushed away will try to return into your life. Everybody will want to be your friend, but your words may hurt your cause. You’ll have to work on being more understanding without losing your winning edge. The week end’s activities will provide you with food, friends and good conversations. The rest you get will help you to replenish your energy and improve your perspective.

There’s usually a reason for everything that you do, but your creativity may be driven more out of necessity than talent. If you want to try to turn this situation around, you’d better start now. Use the raw materials you have on hand to demonstrate your idea of art and beauty. You’ll have no choice but to be yourself when you journey on this new adventure. By week’s end, the mysteries will start to wear thin and expose the harsh reality that really exists. You may have to temporarily withdraw from your profession in order to handle this personal matter.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July The warmth you feel inside will spark your passion for life. Get out there and enjoy all that life has to give. Look past others misgivings in order to take advantage of their expertise. You may not understand all the workings of a new technology, but you can figure out how to use it for your own purpose. Check your list and make sure you cover all the bases. Others will be ready to open up to you and to share all of what they have, both spiritually and physically. In time, you’ll do well, but don’t expect the cash to flow immediately.

You know just which emotions to draw out of others and when to do it. You could combine valid points of view to provide a dynamic effort. Supporters will rally for your cause. Look upward and forward. Doubts should not be considered an option. Teamwork is easy for you and it could prove to be very profitable, in the long run. You’ll come out ahead no matter where you start from. By week’s end, you may get tired of being patient. Selfishness will try to rear it’s ugly head, unless you get what’s rightfully yours.

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

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August Save time and money by drawing on the resources that you already possess. If this strategy has worked for you in the past, then it will probably work again. Strike a happy medium with authorities who are being too rigid about your boundaries. An apology, a smile or a hug will get you what you want. Things are changing quickly and you need to get with the program. True friendships will be able to withstand the upcoming changes. By week’s end you’ll feel in control once again. Friends and family will notice the transformation and be very happy with the results.

Step back and realize that things aren’t quite as bad as you thought. Your positive flow has actually put you in a better position than you were before. You may have to act before you think you are ready to do so. Trust your intuition and don’t allow others to intimidate you. Friendships and love relationships will flourish once you decide to speak strongly from your heart. Your wishes and dreams will thrive on the new secure place you’ve found within yourself. Others will feel the energy and benefit greatly from your warmth.

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

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Human emotions cannot rule you, this time. You must try to look at things on an a more intellectual plane. Try your best to stay clear of those who try to bring you down to their level. You need to look beyond the immediate to understand how the bigger picture works. Everyone needs to feel secure, some may rely on luck but you have your own strategy in place. In order to succeed, you must first expand your reach beyond here and now. Each step you take now will be bold and relevant. You know what must happen, but your patience is wearing thin.

Read your Weekly Horoscope Online

Realize that tempers may be short in sensitive areas of life. You need a break from away from extreme solutions to dealing with simple problems. Stay confident in who you are and you’ll be ensured a smoother ride. Being in between jobs or relationships can make you feel very isolated. A compromise on your part will restart stalled talks. By combining your resources, you’ll be able to find the perfect kind of operation. Your love life has suffered lately and now you need to start melting the heart that you love.

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VOICE OF ASIA 23

Civil Engineer/Assistant/Technician Needed

Civil Engineer/Assistant/ Technician needed Office Secretary - Data entry, must be proficient in Word and Excel. (Both part-time and full time options) Fax resume to 281-407-6335 or email to info@texasgeotechnical.com Qualified Book Keeper Needed

Experienced Book keeper needed for an 300 unit apartment. Responsibilities include straight forward daily book keeping functions, and paper work processing. Must be proficient in Excel and QuickBooks. This position is an immediate hire. We offer a competitive base salary with possible benefits for the right candidate. To apply,

Please email resumes to: aruna6994@hotmail.com Call for details: 832-282-3914 M/WBE Subcontractors MyECOPlanet, LLC is bidding on Project # 18-09-02 Disposable Foodservice Supplies and Related Items for the Houston Independent School District. We are looking for possible M/WBE subcontractors to provide the following products and/or services. 1. Local delivery and long-haul trucking services 2. Customs broker clearance services 3. Tax planning and payroll services 4. Legal advise If you are interested in this opportunity, please contact Veronika Doucet via email: veronika@myecoplanet.com or via cell phone: 281-507-1088 by October, 16th 2017.

PET of the WEEK ROSEBUD - ID#A006317

I need a loving home

Shelter staff named me ROSEBUD. I am a spayed female, white and fawn Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix. The shelter staff think I am about 2 years and 4 months old. I have been at the shelter since Sep 28, 2017. For more information about this pet, call: City of Sugar Land Animal Services at (281) 275-2364

CLASSIFIEDS

FRIDAY, October 13, 2017

MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE WEEK Encourage Your Team to Call Out Narcissistic Behavior Having a narcissist — someone who is grandiose, self-promoting, and larger than life — on your team can be a challenge. While their drive can be effective in moving organizations forward, their insistence on winning at all costs can create havoc on a team. You can mitigate the effects of their behavior by creating a strong sense of team cohesion and encouraging everyone to openly and constructively confront problematic behavior. A group setting makes dysfunctional acting out more noticeable, controllable, and discussable — and appropriate peer pressure will push the narcissist to adapt to the group’s norms. Plus, feedback from many people is harder to ignore than feedback from one person. Source: Adapted from “How to Manage a Narcissist,” by Manfred F. R. Kets de Vries www.hbr.org

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FRIDAY, October 13, 2017