Voice of Asia E paper October 9 2015 by VoiceOf Asia

VOICE OF ASIA 1

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Important Dates to Remember Medicare Plan Enrollment

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Sewa International Annual Fundraiser raises about $166,000 by Kavita Tewary

OUSTON - Sewa International Houston believes in its motto “Together We Serve Better.” This was exemplified by the great turnout of Sewa supporters and community members on Sewa International’s Annual fundraiser 2015 on Saturday October 3rd at the Shree Radha Krishna Temple . Sewa asked for H.E.L.P (help every life prosper) and the Greater Houston community came out in big numbers and not only opened their hearts but also their wallets to donate generously. The evening was a glittering gathering of who’s who Keynote speaker Sonal Shah. Photo by Bijay Dixit.

Congressman Al Green presenting the congressional Honor to Sewa International President Sarojini Gupta Kaushik Chatterjee and Kavita Tewary. Photo by Bijay Dixit.

Continued on Page 8

Gandhi Jayanti: 1000 Lights for Peace and Plans for Museum A Mahatma Gandhi Museum was announced at 146th Birth Anniversary of Gandhi

Thousands Lights for Peace were lit at the Miller Outdoor Theater in Hermann Park on Sunday, October 4, 2015. Read report on Page 5

Himesh Gandhi named to HBJ’s 40 Under 40

UGAR LAND - Sugar Land City Councilman and attorney Himesh Gandhi has been named a recipient of the Houston Business Journal’s prestigious 40 Under 40 Award. The award annually recognizes 40 of the greater Houston area’s best up-andcoming professionals under the age of 40. Honorees have to be nominated and are chosen by judges based on leadership, overcoming challenges and community involvement. Gandhi is the managing shareholder

Himesh Gandhi

of the Sugar Land office of Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey PC. The State Bar of Texas has recognized his expertise in the area of real estate by being Board Certified in Commercial Real Estate by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. Gandhi represents individuals and entities in complex business transactions and litigation matters. His primary areas of focus are in real estate, construction, mergers and acquisitions, commercial disputes, finance and corporate matters. In 2012, Gandhi was elected to Sugar Land City Council’s At-Large, Posi-

tion One and subsequently re-elected in 2014. His duties on City Council have included service on the Sugar Land Development Committee, Economic Development Committee, Finance/Audit Committee, Intergovernmental Relations Committee and on the Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land’s planning task force. His community involvement includes his service as a board member for the Arc of Fort Bend County and the Arc of Texas. “My volunteer service to both the Arc of Fort Bend County and the Arc of Texas is truly near and dear to my

heart. The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and development disabilities and actively supports their inclusive participation throughout their lifetime, and serving in this organization has taught me the true meaning of humility.” Gandhi has been a resident of Sugar Land for over 25 years. He is a graduate of Clements High School, a graduate of Houston Baptist University and received his law degree from the South Texas College of Law. He is married to Farrah Gandhi and they have a young son, Jaiden.

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EW DELHI, - The core civilisational values of diversity, tolerance and plurality have kept India united for centuries and they cannot be wasted, President Pranab Mukherjee said today in remarks that come against the backdrop of the Dadri lynching over rumours of beef eating. “I firmly believe that we cannot allow the core values of our civilisation to be wasted and the core values is what over the years the civilisation celebrated diversity, promoted and advocated tolerance, endurance and plurality. “These core civilisation values keep us together over centuries. Many ancient civilisations have fallen. But despite aggression after aggression, long foreign rule, India’s civilisation has survived because of its core civilisational values and adherence to them. We must keep that in mind. And if we keep those core values

by Naomi O’LEARY

he victor of “The Great British Bake Off” was hailed as a Muslim role model on Wednesday after winning the hit television contest, as well as the hearts of the nation.

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Core values of tolerance, plurality cannot be wasted: Prez in mind, nothing can prevent our democracy from moving on,” he said. Mukherjee’s remarks at a function in Rashtrapati Bhavan after Home Minister Rajnath Singh had described the President as a symbol of Indianness and nationalism. He also reflects the broadmindedness of Indian culture, Singh said. The President s statement comes in the wake of lynching of a 50-year-old man in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh, by an enraged mob over rumours that he stored and consumed beef, which has sparked an outrage across the country. At the function, the President was handed over a coffee-table book “The Na-

tionalist President--Pranab Mukherjee” written by Prabhu Chawla, Editorial Director of New Indian Express, which was released by Vice President Hamid Ansari. Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Union Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Ghulam Nabi Azad, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Farooq Abdullah and MPs were also present at the function. In his brief 15-minute address, Mukherjee said being a political leader all along he felt shy speaking on such an occasion where a book on him was written. He said the country has

made tremendous progress in many sectors and there is no limit to doing more. “There is no limit. We will have to do much more,” he said. Mukherjee said that there is no end to work in the President’s office which is considered strictly Constitutional and recalled how his colleagues had jokingly commented when he was elected that he would not have anything much to do in the post “I, in my own way, am making my contribution to make the country more important... After three years of coming here, I recognise that much work is to be done. There is no end to working in the President’s office, which is considered strictly Constitutional,” he said.. (PTI)

New Muslim role model rises from British baking contest

Nadiya Jamir Hussain, a 30year-old mother of three from the northern English city of Leeds, survived 11 weekly vote-offs to win the series after impressing judges with an array of artistic creations. For her final show-stopping piece in the finale she made a cake decorated with a sari in the blue, red and white of Britain’s Union Jack. Hussain charmed viewers with her witty one-liners and endearing range of facial expressions, which spawned a “Many Faces of Nadiya Appreciation Blog”, becoming the audience favourite to win the programme -- a runaway success whose final was expected to draw a recordbreaking 14 million viewers. The Muslim Association of Britain called her “an inspiration to many British Muslims, and especially Muslim women”. “I think she’s incredibly talented and it’s really wonderful to see a British Muslim just showcasing the best of Muslim talent in this country,” said Zara Mohammed, vice president of the Federation of Student Islamic Societies.

A screenshot shows Nadiya Jamir Hussain just before she is announced as the “bake-off” winner.

first “a bit nervous that perhaps people would look at me, a Muslim in a headscarf, and wonder if I could bake”. “I’m just as British as anyone else, and I hope I have proved that,” she said. Hussain burst into tears as she was announced the win-

“I’m never going to say: I don’t think I can,” she said. “I can, and I will.”

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A passionate baker since she was a schoolgirl, Hussain was a full-time mother before going on the show but could be poised to reap new opportunities. Previous winners have created careers out of their victories, penning cookbooks and newspaper columns.

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FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

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Satya Tiwari, President of Surya, joins Diocese of North America And Europe Mar Thoma Akshaya Patra USA Advisory Board

TONEHAM, MA – Satya Tiwari, President of Surya, Inc., has joined the 2015 Akshaya Patra USA Advisory Board. In this role, Mr. Tiwari will continue his crucial work of spreading and growing awareness about the work of Akshaya Patra in Atlanta, Georgia area, and building on the organization’s expansion via new kitchens and the number of children served. Akshaya Patra runs one of the world’s largest school meal programs, serving 1.4 million children daily in 10 states in India. It’s goal is to serve 5 million children by the year 2020. Satya Tiwari currently serves as president of Surya, a leading source for coordinating rugs and home accessories across a diverse range of lifestyles and price points. Since joining Surya in 2004, Satya has been instrumental to the growth of the Surya brand, introducing multiple product categories – including pillows, throws, wall decor, lighting, accent furniture, decorative accents and bedding – while also expanding into the hospitality and outdoor segments. Under his leadership, the company has grown from $2.7 million in annual revenue in 2004 to $100 million in 2014, and has been named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest growing companies for five consecutive years.

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Of his decision to join the Akshaya Patra Advisory Board, Mr. Tiwari states, “When I learned about Akshaya Patra in 2012, I saw the opportunity to make a real difference in the

where we employ more than 50,000 artisans. Hunger should never be a barrier to education and Akshaya Patra is removing that barrier, one meal at a time. I look forward to assuming this important role in a truly lifechanging organization”. Emily Rosenbaum, CEO of Akshaya Patra USA welcomed Mr. Tiwari, saying, “Satya’s enthusiasm to build and serve the dreams of others – such as the government school children in India – through his support for Akshaya Patra is truly inspiring. We are so proud that he has chosen to be part of the Akshaya Patra movement to eliminate childhood hunger and promote universal education.”

Satya Tiwari, President of Surya, Inc., . Photo credit: Surya, Inc. lives of impoverished children and their families living in rural India. Having grown up in a small village in Northeastern India, I had witnessed firsthand the health and educational challenges that, if not properly addressed, can lead to an ongoing cycle of poverty. My father was a teacher in a local village and had instilled in me early on the importance of education as a catalyst for social mobility. So, supporting Akshaya Patra and its school lunch program made a lot of sense. In early, 2012, Surya began making an annual financial contribution to the organization, giving thousands of children access to healthy

lunchtime meals for an entire year. We also established the Miles for Meals Program, an annual half marathon and fundraising campaign to help generate additional funds. Being on the Akshaya Patra board is a great honor and something I take very seriously. My involvement will enable Surya to become more intimately involved in the organization’s mission, beyond just contributing financially. We hope to be able to more directly impact the lives of children and their families throughout rural India – in particular, in Surya’s large weaver community,

Chairman of Akshaya Patra’s Board of Directors, Desh Deshpande added, “Satya Tiwari is someone who is making a difference locally, with his company Surya, and globally, by getting deeply involved in effective and scalable social impact causes such as Akshaya Patra and spreading that passion to others he touches.” Akshaya Patra’s hot, fresh school meals have been linked to increased school enrollment, and improved health and academic performance for the disadvantaged children attending India’s government schools. For every $15 donated, Akshaya Patra is able to feed a child for an entire academic year. For more information on Akshaya Patra, visit www. foodforeducation.orgwww. foodforeducation.org

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OUSTON - The Second National Conference of the Mar Thoma Senior Fellowship hosted by Trinity Mar Thoma Church, Houston is to be held from Oct.14 thru Oct.17, at Trinity MTC,5810 Almeda Genoa Rd,Houston, TX-77048. Around 250 delegates from various parishes in North America and Canada are attending the conference.

Theme of the Conference is “ Renew Strength” ( Isaiah 40:31). Diocesan Episcopa Rt.Rev.Dr.Geevarghese Mar Theodosius and Rt.Rev.Joseph Mar Barnabas Episcopa (Adoor Diocese) are the main leaders of the conference. Dr. Mukaila Raji,MD ( UTMB, Galveston), DR. Swea S.Legha ( Oncologist) , Dr.V.T. Samuel and Mrs. Priya Koshy etc., will lead different seminars on is-

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sues related to aging, cancer prevention, senior benefits, etc. There are variety of programs like theme study, bible study, bible quiz, exercise etc., have been arranged. The Senior Fellowship is an organization of Senior members of the Church to have fellowship together. It gives the opportunity to share their experiences and to be strengthened to face challenges of the age and aging. Hope this fellowship and annual conference would be very beneficial to the senior members of the Church. The Conference will start at 4.00pm with registration on Wednesday on Oct.14 and will conclude with holy Communion on Saturday Oct.17 , 8.00am.

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Obituary

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Dr. Harish Chander Khera passed away on September 26, 2015 in Houston, Texas at the age of 76. Dr. Khera was born in Dera Ismail Khan, India on June 22, 1939. Dr. Khera will best be remembered for his kind heart, love of life, and unforgettable laugh. He was a highly regarded General Surgeon whose abilities were only matched by his work ethic and character. Harish is survived by his wife Indu, sons Mohit and Amit Khera, daughters-in-law Diana and Susan, and grandchildren Dalia, Nadia, Shiv, Dillon and Ethan.

www.peopleslawyer.net Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center

Out-of-state child support enforceable in Texas Q. Can my wages in Texas be garnished for child support imposed by another state? A. As you probably know, there generally is no wage garnishment in Texas. A major exception to that rule is child support obligations. Child support obligations may be enforced through wage garnishment, and this includes obligations fro another state. Most states have agreements with Texas making it very easy to enforce an out-of-state child support obligation in Texas.

The funeral was held, half past Ten O’clock on the morning of Wednesday, September 30, at Sugar Land Mortuary , 1818 Eldridge Road, Sugar Land, TX. Dr. Harish Khera 1939-2015

In lieu of flowers, donations were requested to be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Association, Inc. 1525 Lakeville Drive, Suite 101; Kingwood, Texas 77339 (http://www.pfassociation.org) Courtesy: Houston Chronicle published on Sept. 29, 2015

Q. I have a will that was prepared some time ago. It is not notarized. Is it still valid? A. In Texas, a printed or form will is valid if it is signed, and witnessed by two witnesses. There is no requirement that a will be notarized. Having said that, however, there are two things in your question that suggest you might want to have a new will prepared. First, you say the will was prepared “some time ago.” I am not sure how long ago “some time” is, but it may be a good idea to get a new updated will. Both the law and your situation may have changed. Second, although a will does not have to be notarized to be valid, it should be notarized to make it easier and less costly to probate. My suggestion is to get a new will with a “self-proving affidavit,” the formal name for the notary’s statement.

In Memory of Vasanta Lakshmi Putcha Vasanta Lakshmi Putcha, Ph.D., Chief Pharmacologist at NASA-Johnson Space Center, started her career as a post-doctoral fellow in 1982 and went on to develop cutting-edge applications for astronaut health care operations in space and on Earth. Over the course of her career, Vasanta was awarded grants by the National Institutes of Health and the National Space Biomedical Research Institute, to name just a few. Her contributions to the field of Pharmacotherapeutics include significantly expanding our knowledge of the wide-ranging effects of space flight on humans, as well as resolving critical human health and safety issues for future exploratory missions, including ones to Mars.

Q. Three years ago, a credit card company filed a lawsuit against me, I answered the lawsuit. I heard nothing for over a year, until I received a notice of hearing on a motion for summary judgment. Isn’t there a four-year statute of limitations for lawsuits? Should this case now be dismissed? A. The statute of limitation is the legal time-period within which a lawsuit must be filed. A lawsuit filed after the statute has run can be dismissed. For credit card lawsuits, the statute of limitation is four years. In your case, however, the lawsuit was filed well within the statutory time limit. The statute of limitations applies to the date the lawsuit is filed, not when it is finally resolved. Q. Do you still publish a free consumer newsletter? How do I subscribe? How often is it published? A. I continue to publish my consumer alert newsletter, and it is distributed three times a week by email. The Consumer News Alert contains shopping, financing and budgeting advice, product recalls, information about the law and a daily “Consumer Tip.” There also is an update section just for lawyers. The News Alert is distributed free of charge. To subscribe, simply go to www.peopleslawyer.net Q. I have a question about debt collection in the state of Texas. I was under the impression that as long as you are making any payment, you can’t be sued in Texas for outstanding medical bills. Have the laws changed or am I mistaken?

Vasanta was driven by an insatiable curiosity and an uncompromising pursuit for excellence. In her own words, the guiding principle of her life was, “if you can dream it, you can achieve it.” This passion infused all aspects of her personality—she was a rasika in the truest sense of the word; a gardener and botanist extraordinaire; a gifted writer; and a fount of wisdom and experience. In short, she was a force of nature–her energy and capacity for love were essentially unbounded. Although her life was unexpectedly cut short, her spirit will endure through the many lives she touched. Vasanta Lakshmi Putcha September 28, 2015

Her service was held Wednesday, September 30, 2015 at 1:00 pm at Clayton Funeral Home, 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581.

A. I am surprised by how many people think that medical bills are different from any other debt. The law has not changed, but you are mistaken. Debts arising from medical care are not treated differently from debts arising from any other obligation. Whether you owe a credit card bill or a doctor’s bill, the collection procedures are the same. Unless you have an agreement with the creditor that he will not sue as long as you make payments in a certain amount, the creditor has no obligation to accept less than the full amount and can sue, even if you make a small payment.

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1000 Lights for Peace and Funfare on Gandhi Jayanti The Keynote Speaker for the evening, Rev. Howard Caesar, Senior Minister at Unity Houston, addressed the audience informing them about “peace starts with me” and encouraged all to think, 1000 Lights for Peace as Million Lights for Peace.

OUSTON - Mahatma Gandhi Library along with more than 100 organizations concluded Mahatma Gandhi Week 2015 with big fanfare on Sunday, October 4, 2015 at Miller Outdoor Theater in Hermann Park. The evening celebrated 146th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, Gandhi Jayanti, celebrated as 1000 Lights For Peace.

Rev Howard, presented the well-earned awards to more than the 30 winners of the citywide contests held by Mahatma Gandhi Library.

The 10th Annual 1000 Lights for Peace, was another huge success. Each year Mahatma Gandhi Library organizes month long activities culminating in celebration of Gandhi Jayanti on weekend following October 2nd, Gandhiji’s actual birthday. The spirits of the Houstonians attending the program were truly visible during this auspicious celebration. The weather was picture perfect. The brilliant day started with the Walk for Peace with garlanding of a picture of Mahatma Gandhi and the lighting of the authentic 1966 Olympic Torch. The participants walked almost 5 kilometers around Hermann Park voting for peace with their feet and demonstrating that a life of peace is a daily steadfast commitment that requires the patience of a man trying to empty the sea with a cup. During the walk, many proudly displayed signs of Peace, Truth, Non-violence and Love spreading the message that resonated throughout the city of Houston. Upon their arrival back at Miller Outdoor Theater, they were welcomed onto the main stage by a musical tribute from the talented Katy McMeans Junior High band, conducted by Mr. George Liverman. The 1000 lights For Peace program, started promptly at 6pm with an invocation by Imam Mubasher Ahmad from Ahmadiya Muslim Community, Greater Houston, Rev Daniel Dominguez from Centro Familiar Cristiano in Sugarland, and Dr. Kavita Vachaknavee from Arya Samaj Greater Houston.

The Gandhi Darshan Exhibit portraying the chronologic lifetime of Gandhiji with actual photographs from that era was also displayed at the Miller Outdoor Theater and was enjoyed by many visitors.

Aashish Jain, recent graduate from Northwestern University, was a commanding Master of Ceremonies and kept the evening flowing with historical perspectives on not only Mahatma Gandhi, but also prominent international social reformers including Cesar Chavez, Nelson Mandela, and Desmond Tutu. The evening started with more than 100 adorable and talented children from Houston’s St. Catherine Montessori Catholic Choir directed by Tim and Mindy Snow. They brilliantly sang “Kumbaya” and “A Candle for Peace.”The Ballet Folkorico “Raices del Peru” of Houston performed the first International act of the evening. Ananya Choudary winner of the 11 and over speech contest, inspired the crowd by reciting her winning speech titled “Does War Lead to Peace?” The delightful children from the Ahmadiya Muslim Community wearing traditional

dresses recited the poem “Lover for All, Hatred for None.” The next cultural item came from El Grupo Folklorico Internacional performing a colorful and rhythmic dance titled “Raices De Mi Tierra.” The students of the Anjali Center of Performing Arts, directed by Rathna Kumar, then performed a classical Indian dance “Seeking Peace”. The crowd then welcomed the adorable Kareena Kamal who dazzled the crowd by presenting her winning speech from the 10 and under category titled “Bullying: My Perspective.” Atul Kothari, founder of Mahatma Gandhi Library, presented a plaque of appreciation to volunteer Sesh Bala for his unconditional and everlasting dedication as coordinator of Walk for Peace. Manish Wani, on behalf of the MGL board, was thrilled to announce the planning for the new Mahatma Gandhi Museum

TOMOSYNTHESIS

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to be built in Stafford, Texas. The land has been secured and preparations are underway. The Mahatma Gandhi Museum design will unite site-specific elements with sustainable strategies to promote the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi. The unique experience of the new museum will features galleries as separate structures staggered along the east-west axis and linked by an elevated walkway. As the buildings meander through the narrow site, a series of green oases weave the galleries and breezy verandas, where visitors can linger and enjoy the water gardens. As visitors make their way through the museum, they constantly move between the galleries and the verandas. The goal is to provide a venue where children of all ages can enjoy, learn and recognize the importance of the values of peace, truth and non-violence and also, to offer a place for adults of all ages to reflect and understand the deeper meaning of non-violent truth as exemplified by Mahatma Gandhi.

The last international performance of the evening was a dynamic performance by the KoumonKe’le’ African Dance & Drum Ensemble, directed by Ms. Christina Gerard.

The spectacular evening concluded with the lighting of a candle by all in attendance and a pledge to observe peace in their own lives. The candle lighting quickly spread throughout The Miller Outdoor Theater blazing the city of Houston. The crowd reflected on the magical evening and how to emulate Mahatma Gandhi’s life listening to the soothing background music “Imagine” by the award winning Seven Lakes High School Orchestra from Katy, Texas. To view and learn more about 1000 Lights for Peace, please visit www.gandhilibrary.org

October 2, 2003 - Statue of Mahatma Gandhi, Houston Garden Center, Hermann Park, Houston, Texas (USA). Donated by the Government of India. It is the work of Ram V. Sutar. Photo credit: Houston Parks & Recreation Department.

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VOICE OF ASIA 6

“Engirundaalum” - Superb Tamil drama by local artists

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Indo-American Chamber bids adieu to Advisor Dr. Malcolm Gillis

Dr. Durga Agrawal, Consul General Rinzing Wangdi, Dr. Malcolm Gillis, Ashoke Nath and Jagdip Ahluwalia. This picture was taken in 2000.

by Mahesh Iyer

enjoyed watching Tamil Stage Creations and Anantha Aiyer’s Tamil Stage drama titled “Engirundaalum” which was performed entirely by Houston’s own talented artists. The story-line portrayed a true love story between Marudhu (Dr. Gopal) and Mayilaatha (Mala Gopal), despite their modest means and subordinate status. The story unfolds in a picturesque village of Pachai Malai and brought unbridled romance, laughter and of course a happy ending; all in the context of various vicissitudes of lives. Staying true to Anantha’s traditional approach, the stage drama evoked nostalgic moments from a bygone era. As in the past, music and dance had pivotal roles. The play had a cameo appearance by prominent local dance teachers, Dr. Lavanya Rajagopalan, and Ms. Divya Unni, dancing to a classic old tune, colorful backdrops, including one to depict a lush and green Pachai Malai, and catchy old song and dance sequences that added a pleasing toe tapping element to the experience! A featured hallmark of all Tamil Stage Creations productions is the introduction of new artists. This year, delightful additions were Susheel, and Kumaran Sivaprakasam, who were the comedic characters Chinnarasu and Minor Marappa Kounder, respectively, and Nandhu Radhakrishnan (Govaalu) who added humor and lightheartedness! The story also featured an all female film crew with talented Viji Raja as Director TP Rajalakshmi, and new comers, Hema Narayan (Urvashi) , Ponni Sivaraman (Urmila), Gayathri Rao (Swapna) and Sharmitha Sampath (Dhanabagyam) who brought color and style to the stage! Their on stage chemistry and lively interaction were a treat to watch. Veteran performers, Meera Srikanth, Mala Gopal, Natraj Krishnan, Karu Manickam, Sridhar, and Siddharth all did a bang up job and really portrayed their characters with great flair and elan! Notably,

by Manu Shah ACCGH is sad to announce that Dr. Malcolm Gillis, Past President of Rice University and an esteemed Advisor to the Chamber, passed away on October 4th. IACCGH was blessed to have Dr. Gillis as one of its earliest Advisors. He was always encouraging towards a new born Chamber, pleased at the headway made and commended the Chamber for its efforts in promoting business between the US and India. We will always be thankful to him for helping us connect with the President of MD An-

A scene from the Tamil play “Engirundaalum”

The Chief Executive Producer of Tamil Stage Creations, Luckmi Pawa, thanking supporters of the play.

derson Cancer Center, Dr. John Mendelsohn who subsequently joined the Chamber as an Advisor. He also put us in touch with United Airlines CEO Gordon Bethune. We fondly remember the Annual Advisors’ Dinners that he graciously hosted in the Cohen House at Rice University. He was generous with his knowledge, wisdom and expertise every time the Chamber’s leadership called upon him. We were pleased to have him join us at one of our recent Galas. On numerous occasions, Dr. Gillis has stated that the US and India shared many things in common including a strong interest in develop-

ing and strengthening economic, technological and social relationships between the two countries. He was also proud of the fact that the first discovery of Nanotechnology, Carbon 60 was made at Rice University and believed that India can and should be a partner in taking this revolutionary discovery to greater heights. Dr. Gillis will be greatly missed but remembered with love and respect. We join Houston in paying our respects to a wonderful human being, a leader, a distinguished economist and a passionate teacher. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife Elizabeth and children.

Artist being felicitated on the occasion Meera Srikanth (Devaanai Kounder Amma) and Natraj (Palaniappa Kounder) were perfectly cast and performed to a very appreciative audience. Both had perfect command of the Coimbatore dialect of Tamil, and made a very convincing and coordinated pair on stage! Although the dialogue was predominantly in Tamil, it also featured Malayalam, Telugu and English lines prominently, as is the signature style of Anantha in his plays. Events such as “Engirundaalum” seldom falls into the singular genre of stage drama --- it’s more than that. The event certainly offered an opportunity for the entire community to socialize and share matters of common interest. It offered an opportunity to

reminisce and reflect on a bygone era, perhaps remembering childhood memories, and conversations in the vernacular of different communities! Coffee/Tea/Snacks provided by the Madras Pavilion, greatly enhanced the social hour and provided a forum for everyone to get caught up on the latest happenings in H-town. The near perfect Fall weather made it even nicer!! A popular Tamil drama is never complete without a speech in chaste Tamil. The Chief Executive Producer of Tamil Stage Creations, Luckmi Pawa, spoke eloquently thanking everyone for their support and team work! The stage drama was performed on October 3rd and drew a near full-house audience at the Jewish Community Center.

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VOICE OF ASIA 7

DIASPORA

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Indo American media coordinators step up to make Modi’s visit to Silicon Valley a grand success

ecently, we were very fortunate to be involved in the Community Reception for Prime Minister Modi in Silicon Valley. As the media-in-charge for the event, we were afforded a unique look into the differences between the inside perspective from the mainstream Media living in India and the outside perspective from the American mainstream media. It is this interesting difference in perspectives that we wish to share. In his speech on September 27th at the SAP Arena in San Jose, CA, Prime Minister Modi used the analogy of a cricket match to note the differences between those who are present at a cricket match and those who are able to watch it from home. While the former must carefully look for the elements that make up the overall progression of the game, it is those who watch from afar who are more

Media volunteers at SAP Center after PM Modi speech snapped with Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard in the center. accurately able to judge the sequence of events. It is those who, sitting at

home and watching the game on TV, are able to see exactly where the ball

Indian-American environmental engineer Kartik Chandran named MacArthur Fellow

ASHINGTON: IndianAmerican environmental engineer Kartik Chandran has been named a 2015 MacArthur Fellow and given a ‘genius’ grant of $625,000 for working on a novel solution to the world’s need for food, clean water and energy. Chandran, 41, deals with wastewater treatment with the goal of producing useful resources such as fertilizers, chemicals and energy sources, in addition to clean water, in a way that takes into account the climate, energy and nutrient challenges being faced today. An IIT Roorkee graduate, Chandran joins a distinguished group of 24 talented people who have all demonstrated exceptional originality and dedication to their creative pursuits, as well as a marked capacity for self-direction. The fellows may use the $625,000 stipend as they see fit. “Wastewater traditionally has been viewed as something negative--something that we need to get rid of. To me these are not just waste streams, they are enriched streams,” he said in a video on the MacArthur Foundation’s website. The Wall Street Journal said Chandran’s pioneering work is a sort of

Chandran has been named a 2015 MacArthur Fellow and given a ‘genius’ grant of $625,000 for working on a novel solution to the world’s need for food. modern-day alchemy, using microbial ecology, molecular biology and engineering to turn human waste into clean water and usable fertilizer. Chandran’s research is that certain combinations of mixed microbial communities, similar to those that occur naturally, can be used to mitigate

the harmful environmental impacts of wastewater and extract useful products. Currently an associate professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Engineering at Columbia University, he imaginatively tailors his solutions to be locally appropriate.

came from, what it hit, where the fielders are, etc. As we read the articles following the Community Reception for PM Modi in various papers, Indian and American, it was hard not to continuously refer to that analogy. For example, in a recent article in Hindustan Times, the reporter writes that “Modi visit barely got notice in the US Media”. It’s hard to tell whether this is a matter of skewed perspective or just bad journalism. However, rarely can we remember a time in the United States when the head of any country has received so much attention – so much positive attention - for an extension of an official visit. In fact, it was a Wall Street Journal reporter present at the community reception who commented about the look and feel of being in the presence of a rock star. In the days following the community reception, most of the California papers and many of the important national papers in the United States, carried extensive headlines – all positive headlines. In two major California papers, The San Jose Mercury News and The Oakland Tribune, news of Prime Minister Modi’s trip to Silicon Valley were splashed across Monday morning’s front page. With a picture of Prime Minister Modi hugging Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, San Jose Mercury’s headlines read “You have forced the world to change the way they look at India.” Also included were pictures of some of the eminent people who met with Prime Minister Modi during this trip to Silicon Valley, under the headlines “On Modi’s Dance Card.” The San Francisco Chronicle, a ma-

jor US paper, carried the story in Monday morning’s paper. “Premier of India gets warm welcome in San Jose”, it said. It added that “Thousands cheer pledge to boost development of nation’s tech economy.” Prime Minister Modi’s trip to the Silicon Valley was not only noticed by the California papers – it was noticed across the country. In a segment by National Public Radio (NPR) on Monday, in a discussion about how little coverage the Chinese premier received, the anchor specifically mentioned how the visit of all these other heads of states was “overshadowed by the visit of the Pope and of India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi”. In fact, the extremely popular NPR had a one-hour dedicated coverage with three guests -- Vinod Dham, executive managing director of IndoUS Venture Partners, Geetha Vallabhaneni, founder of Luminix and Deepak Aatresh, founder of Aditazz -- on its Monday morning show. In all, NPR had four different stories covering the Prime Minister Modi’s trip. In the Tuesday following the event, the country’s top most business newspaper The Wall Street Journal not only reported about Prime Minister Modi’s support for President Obama’s international climate change agreement, but also extensively reported about the Prime Minister’s meetings with the top CEOs as well as his speech to the Indian diaspora in Silicon Valley. The Los Angeles Times ran an article with some humor: “Silicon Valley welcomes Modi with Song, Dance - and a Shazam joke.” It specifically cited the emcee Rajiv Satyal’s joke that with 17,000 Indians here, we have some tech support. The popular national newspaper USA Today gave substantial coverage to the Prime Minister’s Silicon Valley trip under the headline “India’s Modi gets a like at Facebook HQ.” And many other newspapers across the United States carried Associated Press news stories on the Prime Minister’s trip. Report by Media Coordinators Rakhi Israni and Vijay Pallod. Rakhi Israni was the media chair for the Indo American Community of West Coast, the organization tasked with organizing Prime Minister Modi’s recent community reception in Silicon Valley. She is a second generation Indian-American attorney and entrepreneur based in California. Vijay Pallod was a key member of the media team for PM Modi’s Community Reception in Silicon Valley. He works and lives in Texas.

VOICE OF ASIA 8

COMMUNITY

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Sewa International Annual Fundraiser...... Continued from Page 1 from the Indian American community as well as Government representatives like Congressman Al Green and Sugar Land City council member Harish Jajoo .The Chief Guest and keynote speaker for the evening was Sonal Shah, a fellow Houstonian, social entrepreneur and an economist . The evening commenced with the lighting of the lamp by few key members of Sewa, Congressman Al Green and Sewa Houston Chapter President Sarojini Gupta, followed by a devotional dance by the most gracious Kusum Sharma of Kalakriti Performing Arts . The tempo for the evening was set by the first speaker Congressman Green, who spoke about the importance of the work Sewa International does with emerging communities and refugees in his congressional district He also presented the Congressional recognition to Sewa International for its service. He kicked off the fundraising by pledging to donate to Sewa International’s fundraiser.

TOP: Anjali Center for performing arts p erforming Madhav Madan Murari choreographed by Dr Ratna Kumar. Photos by Bijay Dixit. LEFT: Kusum Sharma, Founder, Kalakriti Performing Arts, presented a classical dance at the event.

The Emcee for the evening the most charismatic Meena Datt, kept the audience engaged. The cultural performances by students of Ratna Kumar’s Anjali School of Performing Arts and Kusum Sharma’s Kalakriti were absolutely phenomenal. Sewa International Chapter President Sarojini Gupta’s welcome address was warm and she spoke from her heart about the love and gratitude she felt for all the volunteers and supporters. She also shared a 10 minute video of Sewa International’s projects and various achievements over the past year The highlight of the evening was however the keynote address by Sonal Shah. She spoke intimately and from her heart about the challenges refugee families face every day ,when they become migrants by force and not by choice She also spoke about giving back to the community where we live, even though our hearts may still be in India. She urged the audience to give back to the community that nurtured them and accepted them as they came to America as immigrants. From among the audience was Komal Bhandari, a refugee student who went to UT Austin on scholarship provided by Sewa International .He shared his story with the audience and his accomplishment from the Sewa program to join at NASA . The audience also had a chance to hear from Ms Delores Jones, Business coordinator who shared the great work done by Sewa International with Alief ISD’S LINC program.(Language Institute for Newcomers). The vibe and the ambiance of the evening was inspiring and magical. Sewa was able to surpass its fundraising goal of $140,000 and raised almost $166,000 .The evening was complemented by a delicious dinner catered by Bhojan restaurant. Sewa supporters and team ended the evening with a strong resolve to work harder and serve better for the H.E.L.P program during 2015-2016.

FBISD presents its Middle School Theatre One-Act Play Festivals, Nov. 7 Zone A Festival to be held at Willowridge High School, Zone B Festival at Clements High School FORT BEND ISD – The community is invited to come out and enjoy Fort Bend ISD theatre students as they compete in the annual Middle School Theatre One-Act Play Festivals on Saturday, November 7. Hosted by the District’s Fine Arts Department, the festivals will feature 40-minute theatrical performances, in both Zone A and Zone B, by students representing each of the District’s 14 middle schools. The competition schedule/location for each Zone Festival is as follows: Zone A Festival Willowridge High School (16301 Chimney Rock Rd., Houston 77053) Start Time – 9:00 a.m. Participating schools (in order of performances): McAuliffe, Lake Olympia, Sugar Land, Missouri City, Quail Valley, First Colony and Hodges Bend Awards Ceremony – 5:00 p.m. Zone B Festival Clements High School Auditorium (4200 Elkins Drive, Sugar Land 77479) Start Time – 9:00 a.m. Participating schools (in order of performances): Baines, Bowie, Crockett, Dulles, Fort Settlement, Sartartia and Garcia Awards Ceremony – 5:00 p.m.

Sewa Team and Volunteers with Keynote speaker Sonal Shah. Photo by Bijay Dixit.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 9

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

IACF gives free vaccination at Turning Point Shelter

Volunteering doctor giving the flu vaccine at the Turning Point Shelter in Houston

ndo American Charity Foundation (IACF) was founded in 1988 to give back to the local community and help the underprivileged fight hunger. During the past 28 years, it has developed into a philanthropic organization with efforts to meet the needs of our local citizens in the four major areas of education, family, general, and healthcare and a motto of “We live here, we give here”. In keeping with that goal, IACF conducted its second flu vaccination camp at

one of its partner charities, The Turning Point Shelter in Houston under the leadership of one of its board members, Dr. Mahendra Jain. The free vaccines were provided by Randall’s pharmacy under the leadership of Ms. Heta Shah who coordinated the pharmacy interns from University of Houston. The event drew 55 elderly, uninsured residents including women in the shelter to seek the much needed preventive measure. The recip-

IACF Free Vaccination drive led by its Director Dr. Mahendra Jain and team. Seen in pic are IACF members with volunteers. ients were very appreciative of the efforts by IACF and Randall’s to provide them the much needed medical help. IACF is

planning to hold 2 more events at deserving partner charities’ event sin November to help the local residents to stay healthy

during the dreaded flu season. IACF would like to thank the financial and physical help of charity minded donors inter-

ested in joining to meet our local community citizens’ needs, and humbly request continued support..

YLDP Session I with Dr. Hardeep Singh “Are you sure, Doc?” by Meghana Gogineni leader must be innovative and confident; however, a leader must also be compassionate yet proactive, unique yet understanding, and determined yet enthusiastic. On the morning of September 19th, Hardeep Singh M.D, M.P.H, the Chief of the Health Policy, Quality & Informatics program at the Houston Veterans Affairs Center, and Associate Professor of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, inspired 48 Indo-American high school juniors and seniors, part of the Youth Leadership Development Program of Houston’s Class

Hardeep Singh M.D

of 2016, strive to understand the true meaning of leadership, specifically in the healthcare field. As a graduate of the All India Institute of Medical Science, the most prestigious medical school in India, Dr. Singh demonstrates the value of hard work and discipline. After he came to the US to complete his residency, he began practicing healthcare in rural east Texas, where he recognized the severity of misdiagnosis. Despite racial prejudices and others advising him otherwise, Dr. Singh persevered and pursued research related to the significance

of misdiagnosis for which he was awarded the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers, the highest honor bestowed by the United States government on science and engineering professionals, by President Obama in April 2014 for his groundbreaking multidisciplinary research utilizing health information technology to deliver patient care efficiently. Similarly, Dr. Singh shed light upon a crucial fact of life: failure is inevitable; however, those who overcome failure by learning from their experiences and persevere will become truly successful leaders.

A true leader must be innovative and confident; however, a true leader must also be compassionate yet proactive, unique yet understanding, and determined yet enthusiastic. “Average leaders raise the bar on themselves; good leaders raise the bar for others; great leaders inspire others to raise their own bar,” (Orrin Woodward). Dr. Singh is an exceptional leader who has inspired me to raise my bar and aspire for nothing less than my dreams and find the perfect amalgam between happiness and success.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

The epic ‘Ramayana’ to unfold at Skeeters Stadium Grand Dussehra and Diwali celebrations on October 17, 2015 by Shobana Muratee

ri Sita Ram Foundation that created a new trend of celebrating Indian festivals with their signature, blockbuster Dussehra/Diwali festival will be back on Saturday, October 17, 2015 with a plethora of features added to this year’s celebrations. Sugar Land’s Skeeter Stadium will once again be spotlighted with colorful costumes, parades, bazaar and fireworks that will light up Highway 6 and beyond. Gates open at 4 PM on that day and it will a no hassle for those that have their tickets already bought at Sulekha.com or ShriSitaRamFoundation.org and for last minute planners; the box office is your best bet. From the time you arrive at the Stadium, there will be no dull moment. Starting with the Diwali Bazzar at the Concourse bustling with 45 vendors, you will experience a day at Chandini Chow in Delhi. The razz-a-ma-tazz of it all: silk sarees, jewelry, costumes, is bound to blow your mind. In the midst of it all you will see the grandiose of Shri

The Parade in progress at the Skeeter’s Stadium during last years’s Dussehra/Diwali festival Ram temple with a priest who will offer Prasad flown all the way from Ayodhya, India and give you Laxmi for prosperity, a tradition more familiar with

South Indians. The parade, the highlight of the show, will commence 8:30 PM with Consul General P Harish as the Parade Marshal. Near-

ly 45 floats, some with celestial beings in their abode Vaikuntha and ‘Kailash’ will be brought to earth to witness. The famous Wells Fargo float, a stage coach

drawn with 4 horses will be there along with smoke belching train engine from Namco Corporation. This year Sri Lanka will have a float as well. This will not just enthrall you for an hour but also introduce children to the many Hindu mythological characters that they may have heard of. There is so much for everyone at the festival that you feel it should last for a week. From costume competition on stage to petting zoo, there is ample stuff for kids. Not to mention the variety of eats at the food booths: Puri Aloo, Halwa, Chat papri, golgappas, dahi baras, sweets and many other delicacies. The Dussehra/Diwali festival is one of a kind that caters to the diverse interests of Indians and non-Indians as well. India’s regional folk dances, classical and semi-classical dances by noted Divya Unni and other local schools will be featured on the brightly lit 60ft x 40ft stage. Ashirwad School will be showcasing the entire Dynasty of Lord Rama, something this unique cannot be missed. The dramatic battle scenes fought between Rama (good) and Ravana (evil) will be equally en-

Bathukamma Festival set for Oct. 17 at Ashtalakshmi Temple

elangana Association of Greater Houston (TAGH) Bathukamma committee is organizing this year’s celebrations on October 17th at Sri Ashtalakshmi temple. The TAGH, a USA registered non-profit organization, was formed last year by the Telangana Non Resident Indians in greater Houston Area, to preserve the cultural identity and contribute to its development. The organizing committee is bringing all Houstonians together to

make this year’s event a grand success. Large scale plans are being made to welcome families to come together for the “flowerful” festival of Dassera and to pray to Goddess Gauri, the life giver, for societal prosperity and good wishes. This is a FREE outdoor event with lively music and dance. The organizers have made extensive plans to provide FREE parking and FREE dinner (Mahaprasadam). Every family will receive a FREE gift for preparing and bringing Bathukamma to the temple.

Professional photographers will also be taking a FREE family portrait with Bathukamma. The temple will provide an ideal venue to share the joy and celebrations with friends and families. Last year over 1,200 people enjoyed the festivities and this year the organizers are expecting record crowds to share, enjoy, and celebrate life with blessings of Goddess Gauri. For contributions, sponsorships, and volunteering, please contact event organizers Veerender or Anita at taghgroup@ gmail.com or visit http://www. tagh.org/bathukamma

Ladies display their flowerful ‘Bathukammas’ during the festival.

gaging. A 25ft Lord Hanuman will join the celestial league this year. There will be a Maha Aarti led by Sri Meenakshi temple priests and priests of many other temples with thousands of candles. First 2,000 families will get free LED candles for the Aarti. It will be a sight to behold when the dark night lights up with 4000 LEDs (expected this year) and singing during the Aarti. Following the Aarti will be the burning of Ravan, Meghnath and Kumbhkaran; a traditional activity of Dussehra depicting the Victory of Good over Evil. Associated fireworks are tailor-made, color-coded for each effigy separately, so each will burn spectacularly. The organizers have so meticulously blended the social, cultural and religious aspects of the festivals to ensure that no single aspect dominates. Rather, it becomes a wholesome celebration in its true sense. For a fun packed day with family, there can be no better place to take your family and friends. For details visit www.ShriSitaRam.org

Lifestyle VOICE OF ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 11

ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Vol. 28 No. 41 Friday, October 9, 2015 Section 2 Page 11 Email: voiceasia@aol.com Tel: 713-774-5140

Aromatherapy’s Natural Appeal Drives Sales by Etienne Balmer

shape, their well-being and their little everyday ailments,” said Isabelle Pacchioni, whose mother was a herbalist and her father, a naturopath.

ong eclipsed by modern medicine, demand for aromatherapy with its sensual fragrances and soothing powers has surged as more people are attracted to natural products.

“They’re asking themselves questions which for a long time have been hidden by a sort of lobbying by synthetic chemicals,” she added.

Fans of the plant-based essential oils as a means of tackling physical ailments and promoting emotional well-being have helped propel aromatherapy sales, which in France for example jumped by around 16 percent this year.

Aromatherapy claims to offer preventive and healing remedies for a gamut of ills, such as colds, headaches, insomnia, fatigue, stress and insect bites. Isabelle Pacchioni said aromatherapy fans were no longer seduced simply by the fact of using plant-based products, but needed to see that the products actually produced results.

In Germany, aromatherapy has even made its way into hospitals for treating bedsores. But the appeal for many users of the therapeutic essential oils, which can be administered in several ways including massage or inhalation, is the chance to take charge of their own wellbeing.

But there are limits of what they can achieve. “We’re not going to treat illnesses, but treat the environment” of those who are sick, Pacchioni said.

One company riding the wave of aromatherapy’s rising popularity is Puressentiel, which has grown rapidly since its founding a decade ago.

In Germany, around 30 hospitals employ essential oils for cleaning or preventing bedsores, especially in elderly people.

It now employs about 100 workers and has five branches around Europe in Belgium, Britain, Italy, Luxembourg and Spain.

“We often notice that the costs are lower than with conventional pharmaceutical products,” Monika Werner, a German specialist in alternative medicines and a speaker on aromatherapy, said.

The family firm rang up sales of 70 million euros ($78 million) last year and aims to better that by a fifth this year. From the company’s delicately scented headquarters in an upscale neighbourhood of western Paris, Marco and

In Germany, aromatherapy has even made its way into hospitals for treating bedsores. Isabelle Pacchioni have ambitions to turn Puressentiel from France’s leader in the field to the world’s number one. The company recently opened a subsidiary in Canada, and is now eyeing the massive US market. In France alone, aromatherapy sales

in pharmacies and other outlets came to 180 million euros for the 12 months from July 2014, a 16-percent jump compared with the same period a year earlier. - ‘Not treating illnesses’ With that growth fuelled by a de-

sire for natural products, Puressentiel sources its ingredients worldwide, which are then steam distilled. Its bestselling product boasts no fewer than 41 essential oils. “We realise that the users of our products want to take charge of their

Taj Mahal needs nine-year mud pack to tackle pollution

by a local ban on the common practice of burning cow dung for fuel, in order to reduce the carbon deposits on the Taj’s walls.

EW DELHI, India | The Taj Mahal will need nine years of mud packs to remove yellow stains from its white marble walls caused by air pollution, the Times of India reported on Wednesday.

The Times of India newspaper outlined an action plan by authorities after submitting a Right To Information request to access government documents.

Archaeologists said the lengthy period was needed to properly and safely clean particles from the four minarets and the main dome of the famed monument to love.

The Taj -- India’s top tourist attraction -- was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan as a tomb for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died giving birth in 1631.

Authorities have taken numerous steps in recent years to try to protect the 17th-century monument from pollution coming from the busy city of Agra nearby, including banning local coal-powered industries. The mud pack cleaning was The Taj Mahal is India’s top tourist attraction (AFP Photo/Prakash Singh). announced last year, followed

It has drawn a string of world leaders and royalty including former US president Bill Clinton, while Diana, the late British princess, was famously photographed alone on a marble seat there in 1992.

“The view of many doctors has changed on aromatherapy, but the road has been long and there will always be sceptics,” she added. - Don’t look for miracles But experts warn against the effects of the misuse or abuse of essential oils, not least because of the risk of dashed hopes. “The trend for the public at large to go back to nature” can lead to a tendency “to go looking everywhere a bit for a miracle” said Anne Landreau, a biodiversity researcher at Nice University. As a trained pharmacist, she also cautioned that essential oils, like medicines, are made up of active compounds which must be used in precise cases, following good guidance and in the correct quantity. She does not advise their use for pregnant women and babies, for example. She added, however, that a scientific study on essential oils that she carried out herself at the anti-poison centre of a public hospital in Angers, western France, had concluded that it was simply not possible to say whether they were dangerous or not. “It depends on their composition, the quantity used and reactions of each person,” she added.

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LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 12

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Tourists replace rebels as Sri Lanka national park blooms by Peter HUTCHISON

and peacocks also found roaming the wildlife oasis.

ALA, Sri Lanka - Lokaiya Peremadasa shudders as he recalls the havoc Tamil rebels used to wreak on his beloved wildlife park during Sri Lanka’s brutal 37year-long civil war.

The end of the war has also boosted conservation efforts and officials expect that the number of leopards roaming the park has been on the increase since the war.

“They would come down and shoot the animals,” the guide told AFP, his jeep bouncing around on the bumpy dirt tracks of Yala National Park in the island’s south.

“We think there are nearly 100 leopards in the park but the last survey was conducted 10 years ago,” said an official at Sri Lanka’s Department of Wildlife Conservation.

The 48-year-old tells how he even came under fire himself, while wildlife spotting in Sri Lanka’s second largest park, famed for its leopards, after rebels attacked a bungalow.

“No new surveys are scheduled but we believe that when the next one is done we will find more of them,” he added over the phone, without giving his name.

“They spotted us and started shooting at my vehicle. They followed the jeep and I drove at high speed until we made it to the main gate where the army and police were,” he said.

While Yala’s guides are obviously delighted with the upturn in their fortunes, there has been one major drawback however. “The many more jeeps that are out and about has actually made it a lot harder to spot the leopards,” lamented Peremadasa.

“They didn’t catch us but it was terrifying.” For most of Peremadasa’s 31 years at the park, it was a no-go zone for tourists, except for the most hardened of adventurers who hoped to catch a glimpse of its famed leopards but also bears and elephants. But in the six years since the Sri Lankan army crushed the separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), ending their decades-long insurgency, visitors have returned in droves. “Safaris were cancelled regularly and the only tourists that came during the war had experience of hostile situations,” explained Peremadasa. “We had very few visitors. There wasn’t any work for us and we had no livelihoods.

welcoming about 1,900 paying customers a day, depending on the season, occupying around 250 jeep journeys. “There are many tourists visiting these days, lots of British people but we’re seeing more and more Chinese coming,” said the veteran guide. “The tourist numbers are very good for our livelihoods,” beamed Peremadasa, who charges 6,000 Sri Lankan rupees ($44) for a safari lasting around four hours, depending on how many animals have been spotted.

“I even heard that they kidnapped a guide once although I never found out what happened to him in the end,” he added.

Anushka Kahandagama, an assistant director at the Sri Lanka Tourism Development Authority, told AFP via email that more than 170,000 foreign tourists visited the park last year and another 240,000 Sri Lankans.

Close to 1,000 square kilometres (386 square miles) in size, Yala proudly boasts of being home to the highest concentration of leopards anywhere in the world.

- Tourist boom -The influx is a much-needed boon for the local area which suffered tragedy when 250 people were killed in the Indian Ocean tsunami on Boxing Day in 2004.

Approximately 100 of the big cats are believed to roam its dusty terrain, the outer edges of which rest against a stretch of golden sands leading to the Indian Ocean.

No animals died but a memorial near the beach stands as a solemn reminder of those who perished.

Peremadasa said the park is now

“You used to be guaranteed of seeing some after just one or two hours

A Sri Lankan elephant wades across a lake at Yala National Park in the southern Sri Lankan district of Yala, some 250kms southeast of Colombo, on August 16, 2015 (AFP Photo/Lakruwan Wanniarachchi).

The park, first established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, is divided into five blocks with tourists kept mainly

A jeep passes through the entrance to Yala National Park in the southern Sri Lankan district of Yala, some 250kms southeast of Colombo, on August 16, 2015 (AFP Photo/Lakruwan Wanniarachchi) to block one, where there’s thought to be between 40 and 50 leopards.

The protected eco-system is home to 44 varieties of mammal and 215 species of bird, with crocodiles, deer

of looking but now it can take much longer and sometimes you don’t see any at all.”

Top five of 100 greatest Asian films of all-time by Mathew Scott

ary Academy Award.

he Busan International Film Festival is marking its 20th anniversary with a list of the 100 best Asian films of all time, based on a poll of 73 noted filmmakers and critics. The full “Asian Cinema 100” list can be found at http://biff. kr but here’s a look at the top five: 1. “Tokyo Story” (Japan)Yasujiro Ozu was a firm believer in the less-is-more style of storytelling but don’t be fooled by the slow pacing -- it’s the pure emotion here that packs the knockout punch. When an old couple head to Tokyo from the countryside to visit their children they find themselves unwanted -- even unloved -- by all but one, played by a soulful Setsuko Hara. An indictment of the self-centred nature of modern life as it was back then in 1953, the heartbreak comes when you are left wondering if that’s how things still are to-

The Apu Trilogy depicts the life of Apu in Pather Panchali (1955), Aparajito; (1956), and Apur Sansar (1959). day. 2. “Rashomon” (Japan)Cinema was Akira Kurosawa’s grand stage and the world had never seen anything quite like this twisted tale of death and

deceit when it came to cinemas in 1950. There’s the story, first, with murder shadowing the moves of every character. But the genius is in the way Kurosawa unravels it all -- each character (including the one

Want to make a film in India, says Hollywood director Joe Wright

“

Pan” helmer Joe Wright, the man behind some of the most successful literary adaptations like “Pride & Prejudice”, “Atonement” and “Anna Karenina”, is a fan of Bollywood star Aamir Khan and would love to collaborate with local actors and technicians for a film in India. In fact, Wright met wife, sitarist Anoushka Shankar, while he was researching for a film in India and though the movie never got made, he has not given up on the idea. “Anoushka and I would be in India in December and January. She will be doing concerts all over the country and I am looking forward to be back in India and connect with the film industry in a way that I have never done

before. “I hope to make a movie in India one day and would love to work with Indian actors and crafts people,” Wright told PTI in an interview over phone from New York. Thanks to wife Anoushka, the 43-year-old British director is aware about Indian films. “Of course, we watch Bollywood movies. I am a huge fan of Aamir Khan. I have never met him, one day I want to meet him.” While his last few adaptations were decidedly grown up affairs, Wright, in his upcoming film “Pan”, tackles the classic story of Peter Pan - the boy who never grew up.

An origin story, “Pan”, being released in India by Warner Bros on October 9, revolves around an orphan (Levi Miller) who is whisked away to Neverland where he encounters a villain, the sinister Blackbeard.

played by the brilliant Toshiro Mifune) is allowed their own take on how a murder occurred. The result is that you won’t know just who to believe. A Golden Lion followed at Venice, as well as an honor-

3. “In the Mood for Love” (Hong Kong)Wong Kar-Wai’s richly evocative tale of longing and simmering passions in 1960s Hong Kong is among the most stylish of productions to ever grace the big screen. Maggie Cheung and Tony Leung Chiu-Wai play the wouldbe lovers whose affair simmers through glances and stolen moments but never fully bursts into flame. The way cinematographer Christopher Doyle’s cameras seems at times to invade their most intimate moments will almost make you blush. The film was nominated for the Palme D’Or at Cannes in 2000. 4. “The Apu Trilogy” (India)Master filmmaker Satyajit Ray produces an epic in every sense of the word, lifting his inspiration from a series of three famous Indian novels and tracing the coming of age of the impoverished Apu who struggles -- almost silently -- to rise above his situation. Made

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VOICE OF ASIA 13

HEALTH, SC & TECH

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas helps start Urban Garden in alliance with Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation by Jacob David

declare the urban garden open.

OUSTON, TX: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX) has generously made available $60,000 in grant money to the Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation (TWEF), a non-profit organization to start an Urban Garden to benefit kids and their families living in the North Houston area by I-45 and Mitchell Rd. The Empowerment Community Center is located at 8333 Sweetwater Lane Houston, TX 77037. The members of the community along with 50 children met at the ribbon cutting and groundbreaking ceremony on October 2nd, Friday, at 10:45 AM. This is part of the $1.5 million that Blue Cross Blue Shield has made available to organizations that supports the Healthy Kids, Healthy Families initiative. Total in grant application requests have surpassed $12M. Lori Ivanoff, Network Management Divisional Vice Presi-

This urban garden will help provide fresh fruits and vegetables to a nearby farmer’s market. This program is intended to promote positive behavioral changes amongst children and youth. The joy of gardening is aimed to provide intergenerational and cross-cultural connections between elders and children of the community. This initiative will help foster better nutrition, increase physical activity and community involvement among participants. The local farmer’s market that will be an off shoot of this urban garden will teach entrepreneurial skills to the youth.

L-R: Chaz Hammonds, Lori Ivanoff, and Deavra Daughtery display the grant check from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas that has been released to start the urban garden to help families in North Houston.

Blue Cross Blue Shield’s signature program “Healthy Kids, Healthy Families ® has impacted nearly 9 million children and their families in Texas through support in areas of nutrition, physical activity, disease prevention and management, and supporting safe environments.” It is committed to improving

Members of Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation assemble for the ribbon cutting ceremony to start the urban garden.

Members of TWEF and Lori Ivanoff (center) turn the soil to start the urban garden.

dent, and Marina Angelica Coryat, Senior Manager, Media & Community Relations, Southeast Texas Region from Blue Cross Blue Shield took part in the event.

Barlow. Other speakers were Lori Ivanoff, Misty Grant and Deavra Daughtery. Lori Ivanoff spoke about the strong ties that Blue Cross Blue Shield has been establishing with families and communities in Texas. She then presented the grant check

More than 25 percent of children living in Harris county

face food shortages. They end up eating food that is lacking in nutrition. The locale where TWEF is located has been designated a “food desert” because residents have to drive four miles round trip to the closest grocery store to get produce

and food items. Children in this area live in abject poverty. They have so far only seen wax and plastic fruit. A faith filled Nzinga Rideaux emceed the event and welcomed the guests. The opening prayer was by Pastor Stephen

First annual Global Health Hackathon encourages collaboration and innovation “We hope this will be the first of many Hackathons for our global programs,” said Anandasabapathy. “I am amazed by the quality of the innovations that were produced and by enthusiasm and camaraderie of the teams.”

1st place: Hackascope winners at Baylor College of Medicine’s inaugural Global Health Hackathon. Photo credit BCM Hackathon.

hat do a guitar string and a raw chicken leg have in common? They’re the ticket to the first-place prize for innovative solutions to global health problems at Baylor College of Medicine’s inaugural Global Health Hackathon. “A hackathon is an event that brings together people from different disciplines to come up with solutions to particular problems,” said Dr. Sharmila Anandasabapathy, director of Baylor Global Initiatives. “In this case, we’re bringing together students, faculty and people from industry to solve critical problems in global health.” With the goal of developing innovative solutions to clinical issues from underserved areas worldwide, the event brought together healthcare professionals, engineers and businesspeople for 24 hours to “hack.” The hackers were welcomed by Dr. Paul Klotman, president, CEO and executive dean of Baylor, who gave them an overview of the College and of the Texas Medical Center.

Klotman also served as a judge for the event. “It’s going to be a great 24 hours – I’m excited for you,” he said. Participants were reminded that their ideas should impact global health through collaboration and that their concepts should be culturally and socially appropriate. The clinical problems were focused on surgical and procedural care, women’s health and emergency response. Dr. Joseph Sclafani, assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Baylor, presented his clinical problem from Malawi, a landlocked country in southeastern Africa, via Skype. After all of the clinical problems were presented, hackers were invited to individually present an initial pitch so interested participants could began forming groups. One of the biggest resources available to the participants was the ability to seek advice from mentors in various specialty areas: clinical medicine or biomedical sciences, engineering, social sciences, business

administration and management and information technology. Mentors wore color-coded capes depending on their area of specialty so that participants could easily locate them. After 24 hours of ‘hacking,’ each group was invited to give a pitch to the judges. The final winners were: 1st place: Hackascope – build a low-cost endoscope to create opportunities to do endoscopy in low-resource settings 2nd place: Red Zone – A device to record and transmit patient information from the red zone of an Ebola suspect ward to a green zone. The custom device uses existing raspberry pi technology to send data in the red zone 3rd place: Malawi Healthy Mothers – a training and educational program to integrate traditional healers in rural villages to improve prenatal care for women, reducing premature births and labor emergencies The winning team used guitar strings, a 3D printer and even a raw chicken leg to come up with their final concept and pitch.

to Deavra Daughtery. Misty Grantt with LOGOS University said that the university is set to give certificates to all the elders in the community who learn to garden. It will provide the elders a chance to mentor children as well, she said. Deavra Daughtery the founder of TWEF cut the ribbon for the land she donated to be the new urban garden. She said that her son, Chaz Hammonds, CEO of Soul Fit Grill, is the true visionary behind the concept of the garden. Chaz said he felt this garden provides an opportunity for families and children to eat healthy daily. His family members were beset by diabetes, and obesity problems, which motivated him to cultivate organic vegetables. The community leaders gathered helped turn over a pile of mud with shovels and officially

the health and well-being of families in the communities that they serve. This social responsibility has been reflected through their corporate giving, improving community relations, encouraging employee volunteerism, promoting diversity and inclusion of communities, while developing wellness and sustainability initiatives. To learn more about BCBSTX’s social responsibility efforts, please visit http://bcbstx2014srr.com/ Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps families reach their fullest potential in all areas - self development, business, education, handling finances, and developing the community as a whole. TWEF provides scholarships and empowerment initiatives for families.

Young Life

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Friday, October 9, 2015

Section 2

Page 14

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Tel: 713-774-5140

US teens add social media Study finds exergaming to toolbox for flirting: study improves physical and mental fitness in children with autism spectrum disorders

y Rob Lever

ack in the day, they’d flutter their eyelashes or share a nervous, giggly chat. That is hardly over. But American teens are now also turning to online networks as tools for flirting, researchers reported Thursday. Indeed, the keypads of smartphones and such are often firing off the sparks of young love, or at least like, said the study by the Pew Research Center. US teens use such media to ‘like’, comment on, ‘friend’ or joke around with someone they have a crush on, the study said. The old-fashioned stuff of wooing still prevails but now “technologyis a major vehicle for flirting and expressing interest in a potential partner,” said the study. The survey of those between the ages of 13 and 17 said only 35 percent had been in a romantic relationship, but 55 percent had flirted or talked to someone in person to let them know they are interested. Pew found 31 percent of teens had sent flirtatious messages, 10 percent had sent photos as part of flirting and seven percent had made a video for potential partner. “Digital platforms are powerful tools for teens for flirting, wooing, connecting with and even showing off a romantic partner,” said Pew researcher Amanda Lenhart, lead author on the report. But there is a down side: those same media can be conduits for

American teens are turning to online networks as tools for flirting (AFP Photo/Stan Honda). jealousy, meddling and troubling behavior, it added. Thirty-five percent of all teen girls said they had blocked or unfriended someone who was flirting in a way that made them uncomfortable. Among boys, 16 percent took this step, the study said. Pew also found 11 percent of teens who had dated had accessed a mobile or online account of a current or former partner. And 10 percent modified or deleted their partner’s or expartner’s social media profile. Other findings: -- eight percent had sent embarrassing pictures of a current or former partner to someone else -- four percent placed a tracking program on a partner’s device without their knowledge.

“Beyond perpetrating potentially inappropriate or harmful behavior, teen daters also can be the recipients of -- possibly more serious -- controlling or potentially abusive experiences at the hands of significant others,” the study authors said. Also, more than one in five with relationship experience said partners used online media to call them names or say mean things, mostly after a relationship ended. And 15 percent of teen daters report that a current or former partner spread rumors about them using digital platforms. The report was based on a survey of 1,060 teens ages 13 to 17 and a parent or guardian from September 25 to October 9, 2014 and February 10 to March 16, 2015. The margin of error was estimated at 3.7 percentage points.

Diverse gut bacteria lowers babies’ asthma risk: study

Brittany Jenkins, first year master’s degree occupational therapy student at UTMB, in the Makoto Arena. Photo credit UTMB.

ALVESTON, Texas (September 22, 2015) – A study conducted by The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston says games used for exercising can improve physical and mental fitness in children with autism spectrum disorders. The study, written by UTMB’s Claudia Hilton, associate professor, Tim Reistetter, associate professor and Diane Collins, assistant professor, all from the UTMB occupational therapy and rehabilitation sciences departments, concludes that findings suggest the use of exergaming, more specifically the Makoto arena, has the potential to serve as a valuable addition to therapies for children with autism spectrum disorders who have motor and executive function impairments. Executive function is the higher level of intelligence that helps us to plan and organize. It is used to redirect higher thinking when changing plans and suppressing inappropriate behaviors. It is important for being able to live independently as adults. Through the use of the exergame called the Makoto arena, researchers showed

improvement in response speed, executive function and motor skills among children with ASD. The research was conducted with 17 subjects with an autism diagnosis over 30 sessions for over 1,800 total attempts to hit the targets. The International Journal for Sports and Exercise Medicine recently published the findings. “We think that the exertion of participating in this type of game helps to improve the neural connections in the brains of these children,” Hilton said. “This is a small pilot study, but we hope to obtain grant funding to confirm these findings in a larger group of children with autism and to examine the changes that are occurring in the brain.” Children with ASD often experience executive function and motor impairments. They also experience lower rates of physical activity than children without ASD. As they get older, their physical activity declines and they deal with obesity problems more than other children. Comparing out of school activity participation, physical activity showed the greatest differences between ASD and control children, with the ASD children less active.

As a way to combat a lack of physical activity, researchers investigated the use of the Makoto arena, a triangular shaped arena with pillars at each point, each with lights and sounds at various levels of the pillars. Those playing the game must hit the correct spots as they light up on different pillars. The study used 17 schoolaged children and adolescents with ASD in two-minute sessions in the Makoto arena. The speed of the game increased when the participants reached 95 percent accuracy. Subjects competed in the Makoto arena an average six sessions per week. The study saw significant improvements across several physical and mental areas, including response speed. All areas of executive function improved, especially working memory. Motor ability also improved, especially in the areas of strength and agility. “It is difficult to get children with autism to participate in physically exerting activities,” Hilton said. “So finding an activity like the Makoto arena that they will actually do over an extended period like this is very exciting.”

Youngest Astrologer of North America The study involved more than 300 children. AFP Photo. by Kerry SHERIDAN

IAMI, AFP | 9/30/2015 - Children at high risk of getting asthma may be missing some important gut bacteria in their first few months of life, according to a study Wednesday that helps explain why asthma is on the rise. Cases of asthma -- a lifelong condition that causes wheezing, coughing and difficulty breathing -- have risen sharply since the 1950s, particularly in Western countries where up to 20 percent of children are affected, experts say. But the cases have not climbed in the developing world. That has raised concerns that environmental factors or the trappings of modern life -- such as higher rates of Caesarean births, reliance on formula to feed babies rather than breastfeeding, overuse of antibiotics, or other factors -- may be to blame. While scientists still do not have a definitive answer, the findings in the journal Science Translational Medicine identified for the first time four specific bacteria that appear to protect the immune system against asthma. “This research supports the hygiene hypothesis that we’re making our environment too clean,” said study co-author Brett Finlay, professor of microbiology and immunology at the

University of British Columbia. “It shows that gut bacteria play a role in asthma, but it is early in life when the baby’s immune system is being established.” - Critical window The study involved more than 300 children whose stool samples were tested at age three months and one year. The samples showed lower levels of four specific gut bacteria in three-month-old infants who were at an increased risk for asthma. When fecal samples were studied at age one, there were fewer differences among the children, suggesting that the first 100 days of life is a critical window for a baby’s developing immune system. As years passed, 22 children with less diverse gut bacteria were tracked, and eight of them developed asthma. The rest of the group was considered at higher risk of asthma than other children in the study. But it remains unclear exactly how infants acquire these particular bacteria -- they are named Faecalibacterium, Lachnospira, Veillonella and Rothia -- and researchers said more study is needed to find out why some babies naturally acquired them from their environments and others did not. “We know very little about them,” co-author Marie-Claire

Arrieta of the University of British Columbia told reporters.

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None of the 22 children at high risk for asthma were treated with antibiotics in the first months of life, ruling that out as a potential cause for the less diverse bacteria. But the researchers also said they did not examine the children’s mothers for the same bacteria, nor did they examine whether birth vaginally or by Csection, or bottle versus breastfeeding, could have played a role -- though these are directions for future study. “This study, I think, maybe starts to emphasize that we need to revisit our relationship with bacteria,” said co-author Stuart Turvey, a doctor at the British Columbia Children’s Hospital, who cautioned against seeking the answer in store-bought products. “We’re starting to discover this massive universe of bacteria,” said Turvey. “And the bacteria that are often presented in the probiotics we can buy at the health food store or the supermarket are just one small handful of bacteria, and certainly don’t include this flavor combination that we’ve identified.”

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VOICE OF ASIA 15

Bollywood Masala

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Friday, October 9, 2015

Section 2

Page 15

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Income-tax raids delay release ‘Singh is Bliing’ review: Signature Punjabi OTT fare of Vijay-starrer ‘Puli’

HENNAI: After Income Tax raids at his office and elsewhere including those connected with his latest release “ Puli”, top Tamil actor Vijay faced more nervous moments today with the film’s release being threatened over payment issues. The early morning shows were cancelled over some payment issues in the wake of the I-T raids, industry insiders said, but backroom parleys were held to successfully break the deadlock even as irate fans protested cancellation of shows. CEO of AGS Cinemas, Archana Kalpathi said that all issues have been “resolved”.

Film Singh in Bliing poster starring Akshay Kumar

“All issues resolved. Join us in wishing the team of #Puli tremendous box office success. The wait it over #FDFS @ags_cinemas,” she said in a tweet that was retweeted by many users.

by Satya Kandala

f you go to watch Singh in Bliing expecting distasteful displays of wealth, you’d be disappointed. Set mostly in the picturesque kheth of Punjab, blue-green beaches of Goa, and some rustic sidewalks of Romania - Singh is Bliing is the love story of a well-brought Punjabi boy and a Romanian mobster’s daughter. The title presumably refers to the elan of Raftar Singh, played with panache by Akshay Kumar. Taking the premise of Singh is Kinng ahead, Singh (Kumar) once again travels out of his gaun on a mission. This time at the behest of his father, the mission is it to apply himself at a job and become a responsible man. Singh heads to Goa to take up work at a casino owned by his father’s friend and is soon given the job to look after the casino owner’s foreign guest Sara (Jackson). Sara is in India to get away from the clutches of another mobster (Kay Kay Menon), but chiefly to find her mother. The first half of the film passes by quickly enough and keeps it entertaining. Jackson and Singh’s roles are deftly reversed with Jackson being

“Puli” (Tiger) stars Vijay, Shruti Haasan, Motwani and Sridevi, among others and is directed by Simbudevan, who has churned out hits like “ImA still from the film Singh Is Bliing the knight in shining armour a role that Jackson plays with admirable competence. Dutta is mildly amusing as Emily (or Imli as the Punjabis in the film call her) - the translator hired to help Singh and Sara communicate. Props to Dutta, for shedding her leading lady baggage - she looked like she enjoyed playing the goofy Goan . However, in the second half, the jokes get repetitive and the film starts to drag. As any Prabhudheva film, Singh is Bliing is dosed with liberal amounts of sexist humour - mostly jokes that involve the female leads and the nether regions of the male cast. Akshay Kumar’s comic timing really lifts the film and makes an otherwise mediocre film

watchable. A thumbs up to Yograj Singh and Rati Agnihotri - who play the loving yet strict father and the doting mother respectively - for making all desi sequences fun. At 140 minutes, the movie feels too long - - especially the second half that feels like a tired mishmash of multiple Punjabisin-Bollywood stereotypes. Unfortunately for the film, Prabhudheva relies heavily on Jackson’s prettiness and Kumar’s charm, while giving them no great props. Hence, despite the decent performances from the cast, a muddling script and the director’s signature OTT treatment makes Singh is Bliing, strictly average fare. Courtesy: ET Bureau

‘Puli’ (Tiger) stars Vijay, Shruti Haasan, Motwani and Sridevi, among others and is directed by Simbudevan. sai Arasan Irubathi moondram Pulikesi”. Earlier, the I-T department had conducted raids at the premises of Vijay and the producers of the film. Incidentally, release time issues have become routine for Vijay, starting with “Thuppaki”, when Muslim groups had objected to the portrayal of their community in the action thriller.

Later “Thalaiva” faced roadblocks with a small outfit raising objections even as his next venture “Kaththi” faced opposition from pro-Sri Lankan Tamil outfits who were against the producers of the movie, claiming they were close to the then Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa. Two theatres screening the movie were also attacked by some fringe outfits.

Shah Rukh Khan to promote Bengal as sweetest part of India along with Tollywood superstar Dev

O L K AT A : In a bid to bring Bengal on every tourist’s itinerary in the country, the state awaits a stud campaign ready to be shot by the end of the end. The state’s ambassador Shah Rukh Khan would be in town around end of October to shoot an ad film that would promote the state as ‘the sweetest tourist destination’. “The West Bengal Tourism Development Corporation (WBTDC) has set aside Rs 8 crore for the ad film, for In a bid to bring Bengal on every tourist’s itinerary in the country, the which we have hired state awaits a stud campaign ready to be shot by the end of the end. the reputed agency Ogilvy & Mather for sions would be made for the ac- Bengal - the sweetest part of Rs 75 lakh. Darjeeling, Dooars, tor’s payment. India’. Bolpur and the sea-side tourist That’s not all. Basu also said The campaign is not just destinations would be among there would be a series of ad about SRK promoting the state, the touch points,” said state tourism minister Bratya Basu. films of not less than a minute’s accompanying him would be SRK who is volunteering to duration to promote Bengal Tollywood superstar Dev in shoot for these ad films is said tourism. Each of these films many of the promotional films. would not charging be any fees. would however be carrying Courtesy: ET Bureau. Basu however said that provi- the same tagline of ‘experience

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Maharashtra’s brand ambassador for tigers Big B bats to save big cat population

AMBAI - Megastar Amitabh Bachchan, who has been appointed as Maharashtra’s brand ambassador for tigers, has appealed people to save the big cat’s rapidly dwindling population.

successful. If my voice or face can provide anything good to this initiative, I will pledge myself for it,” Bachchan told reporters here at the event.

Beginning the endeavor, the 72-year-old actor took a jungle safari in Sanjay Gandhi National Park in suburban Mumbai last evening along with ministers and politicians.

“I have been in Mumbai for 65 years. But the safari showed me images that I have never seen before. And these are the things that makes me work for it. What makes me proud is that in the middle of the city, there is a national park which is a miracle and we have to save it.”

“I will consider myself worthy as a brand ambassador when tiger preservation and securing their safety becomes

The “Piku” star took jungle safari and he had a great time.

Bachchan revealed Maharashtra is home to the largest number of tigers in India. “When we were moving from 19th to 20th century, the tiger count was 40,000. In 2008, it reduced to 1411. The movement that started after that has made it reach 2226 in number,” he said. On the occasion, Big B launched two Safari buses at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park. The event has been organised as a part of ‘Wildlife Week’ celebrations and it was attended by Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar. PTI.

HEALTHY LIVING

VOICE OF ASIA 16

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

VOICE OF ASIA

Friday, October 9, 2015

Section 2

Page 16

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

Breast Cancer Awareness

Julie Nangia, MD

by Julie Nangia

reast cancer is the most common cancer in women, including Asian women. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. In 2015, it is estimated that 231,840 women in the United States will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. There has been progress in curing breast cancer because of advances in prevention, early detection, and better treatment options. Screening and Prevention Breast cancer has very good screening available so that it can be detected at early stages when it is more often cured. Women should do self-breast exam starting at age 20. It is very important that women learn early in life what their breasts feel like so that if a new lump appears they can see medical attention. It is recommended to start clinical (performed by physicians) breast exams every 3 years at age 20 and annual clinical breast exams and mammography at age 40. Mammograms can detect breast cancer when it is stage 0 and too small to be felt. If there is a family history of breast cancer in more than 2 relatives on the same side of the family, breast cancer

at age 45 or younger, ovarian cancer or a personal history of a breast biopsy showing a precancerous lesion (i.e. atypical hyperplasia or lobular carcinoma in situ) a breast cancer risk assessment is recommended. This is done by a medical oncologist, preferably in a breast center. For high risk woman, medications such as tamoxifen or raloxifene can be used to decrease risk of breast cancer and sometimes breast MRIs are recommended in addition to mammograms. Lifestyle changes can significantly decrease a woman’s risk of breast cancer. Many cancers could be prevented with simple lifestyle changes! It is recommended to exercise 3-5 hours per week (walking is very good exercise) and best accomplished by becoming part of one’s daily routine. Exercise decreases breast cancer risk by decreasing estrogen levels in the body. A woman should also stay thin and maintain a normal body weight. When a woman is overweight the extra fat is converted into excess estrogen in the body, which increases the risk of developing breast cancer. There are no specific types of foods that have been associated with breast cancer risk and a low calorie, healthy diet is recommended. Alcohol has been associated with increased risk of breast cancer because alcohol causes excess estrogen in the body. It is recommended to consume less than 3 alcoholic beverages per week. If you drink alcohol start taking folic acid—one study showed that in women who drink alcohol, some of the negative effects can be reversed by taking a simple vitamin, folic acid 800ug daily. Diagnosis and Treatment Most women are diagnosed

with breast cancer because of an abnormal mammogram or a palpable mass. The initial diagnosis is made by mammogram and ultrasound followed by a biopsy. At that time a woman would see a breast surgeon or a medical oncologist. Stage 1-3 breast cancer is curable and is when the cancer is limited to the breast and the lymph nodes in the armpit. Treatment would include some type of surgery and perhaps chemotherapy, radiation, and anti-hormonal therapy. There are many different types of breast cancer and each of these types is treated in different ways. Stage 4 breast cancer is not curable, but is treatable and a woman can live for many years. COME MORE!

LEARN

The Indian American Cancer Network (IACAN) would like to invite you to an upcoming education outreach event “Breast Cancer: how it affects you and your family” on: October 18, 2015 from 3:00-5:00pm at India House (8888 W. Belfort Blvd., Houston, TX 77031). There will be 3 short talks: “Life After Breast Cancer: Now What?” (Dr. Niravath, Baylor College of Medicine), “Sexual Health and Intimacy in Cancer Survivors” (Dr. Khan, Baylor College of Medicine) & “Breast Cancer Screening for Family Members of Cancer Survivors” (Dr. Patel, The Methodist Hospital) followed by a panel Q&A moderated by Dr. Nangia (Baylor College of Medicine). Julie Nangia, MD, is an Assistant Professor at the Lester & Sue Smith Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine.

Tel: 713-774-5140

Important Dates to Remember Medicare Plan Enrollment

hen Can I Join a Medicare Advantage Plan OR Prescription Drug Plan? (1) If you currently have Medicare Hospital or Medicare Medical Insurance (Parts A and/or B), you can enroll or re-enroll in a Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan (PDP) or Medicare Advantage Plan with Prescription Coverage (MA.PD) starting on October 15 through December 7 of each year. This time period is called the Annual Election Period and your newly chosen Medicare Part D plan begins on January 1of the following year. So, for the 2016 Plans, you can enroll between October 15, 2015 and December 7, 2015.See below for more plan year specific dates (2) If you turn 65 or become eligible for Medicare outside of the Annual Coordinated Election Period, you have a seven (7) month window in which to enroll in the current year’s plan (2015) and avoid any possible penalties: - the three (3) months before the month of your eligibility (for instance, your Birthday month) - the month of your eligibility (e.g. the month you turn 65) - and, the three (3) months after the month you become eligible for Medicare (again, three months after your Birthday month). Your coverage will begin either on the first day of your Birthday month or, when you join during or after your Birthday month, on the first day of the month after the month in

which you join. TIP Please note, to ensure the smoothest possible transition into your new Medicare Part D plan, try to enroll before the middle of the month - this allows time for the processing of your enrollment application. General Medicare Part D Dates October 1 of each year - Medicare Part D Prescription Drug plan Marketing Activities can begin for the next year’s plan. At this time you will be able to once again gather information and evaluate the various Part D plan alternatives. Please note, no enrollments may be accepted before October 15th for plans starting in the new year (ex: On October 1, 2015, we will begin showing plan information for the plans that will become effective January 1, 2016). The only enrollments that can be accepted before October 15th are those for people turning 65 (who want to enroll in a current year plan) or for Medicaid recipients wanting to change their current year plan. October 15 to December 7 of each year - This is your chance to join a Medicare Part D plan for the new plan year (however your plan will not take effect until January 1st of the new year ). If you already have a Medicare Part D plan, this is your time to look back over year and make another decision for your coverage for next year. Should you stay with your existing coverage or make a change? Here is your opportunity to decide. If you make no decision, you will remain in the same plan as you elected this year. There is no enrollment required to renew your present coverage. (If you do not enroll during this period, your next chance for coverage is

Sudhir Mathuria Contact: Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6650 Southwest Freeway Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com January of the year after next.) January 1 of each year - Your new Medicare Part D plan becomes effective and you will be able to begin using your Part D benefits (your old plan will automatically be discontinued). January 1 to February 14 of each year - The Disenrollment Period takes effect. Members of Medicare Advantage plans have an opportunity to return to Original Medicare and a Stand-alone Medicare Part D plan. The Open Enrollment Period of prior years (Jan 1st - Mar 31) has been discontinued. January 1 to December 31 of each year - Persons turning 65 can enroll in the current year Medicare Part D Plan. Medicaid recipients can enroll or change their enrollment in a current year Part D Prescription Drug plan. To plan for any Medicare Advantage Pan, Supplement Plan OR Part D drug plan enrollment contact Sudhir Mathuria 713-771-2900.

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FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

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Schlumberger to Consolidate Oil hits reverse gear on National HQs to Sugar Land US energy report

UGAR LAND, TX Schlumberger has announced plans to consolidate the company’s U.S. headquarters to the City of Sugar Land as part of its longterm resource management and consolidation strategy. As part of this headquartersconsolidation project, the Fortune Global 500 company will reposition more than 500 jobs to its Sugar Land campus. The company will also be investing more than $200 million in capital improvements at its existing 200-acre Sugar Land campus along US Highway 90A to accommodate the move. “As our second largest employer and consistently one of our top property tax and sales tax payers, Schlumberger has

been an extremely important part of the City of Sugar Land’s economy for over a half century, and we are very proud that they have chosen Sugar Land as the location for their consolidated headquarters facilities,” said Mayor James Thompson. “We know that Sugar Land provides world-class amenities for its businesses and citizens, and we look forward to serving the company’s employees and the thousands of visitors that will travel to their new facilities in Sugar Land for business.” A multi-faceted incentive package was created by the City’s Office of Economic Development in partnership with the Greater Fort Bend Economic Development Council and was approved by both the Sugar Land City Council and

the Sugar Land Development Corporation to secure the retention and expansion of the company in Sugar Land. The company decided to centralize its national headquarters in Sugar Land after a comprehensive evaluation of other opportunities with their national site selection and incentive advisor, Duff & Phelps. Fort Bend County is expected to approve their portion of the incentive package later this month. “Schlumberger has been a valued member of the Fort Bend County community for years, and their decision to consolidate their national headquarters in Sugar Land assures that our relationship will last for many years to come,” said Fort Bend County Judge Bob Hebert. “It’s a great day for Fort Bend County!”

Gates richest American, 3 tech chiefs join top 10: Forbes New York, United States | AFP | Tuesday 9/29/2015 15:13 GMT | 264 words Microsoft founder Bill Gates retained his title as wealthiest American, while three founders of online companies joined the top 10, according to the Forbes 400 list released Tuesday. Gates held onto the numberone spot in the annual list of the 400 wealthiest Americans for the 22nd straight year, with net worth of $76 billion, down $5 billion from 2014. Warren Buffett, the head of conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway, ranked second with $62 billion, while former Oracle

chief executive Larry Ellison is third with $47.5 billion. Forbes said the average net worth of the 400 members on the list stands at a record $5.8 billion, above the $5.7 billion last year. Total wealth is $2.34 trillion, up from $2.29 trillion in 2014. Entering the top 10 richest rank this year were three founders of e-businesses. Amazon founder Jeff Bezos bolted from 15th to fourth place at $47 billion, thanks to the surging value of Amazon stock. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg, who jumped from 11th to seventh place, had net worth of

ONDON, AFP | Wednesday 10/7/2015 - The oil market fell Wednesday after US crude reserves rose more strongly than expected, indicating weaker demand in the world’s top consuming nation. In late afternoon London deals, Brent North Sea crude for delivery in November dipped 16 cents to stand at $51.76 a barrel. New York’s benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in November shed 21 cents to $48.32 per barrel compared with Tuesday’s close. American commercial crude inventories jumped 3.1 million barrels in the week to October 2, the US government’s Energy Information Administration (EIA) said in its weekly report. That beat market expectations for a gain of 2.25 million barrels, according to analysts polled by Bloomberg News. Rising stockpiles tend to push

$40.3 billion. And Larry Page, CEO of Google, moved from number 13 in 2014 to land the 10th spot, with $33.3 billion. The business magazine also spotlighted Republican presidential contender Donald Trump, who has claimed wealth of at least $10 billion. Forbes came up with a lower figure, rating the billionaire in 121st place. “After interviewing more than 80 sources and devoting unprecedented resources to valuing a single fortune, we’re going with a figure less than half that -- $4.5 billion, albeit still the highest figure we’ve ever had for him,” Forbes said.

prices lower because they indicate weakening demand for crude. At the same time, US crude output increased by 76,000 barrels per day to 9.17 million last week, according to the EIA. “US crude stocks increased by over 3.0 million,” said Natixis analyst Abdishek Deshpande. “This was driven mainly increased US production by 76,000 bpd and drop in total refinery processing rates.” Earlier on Wednesday, the oil market had risen on hopes of an easing in the stubborn global supply glut. A softening of the US currency had also helped bolster the commodity as the dollar-priced commodity becomes cheaper for holders of weaker units, spurring demand, analysts said. Back in August, oil prices had fallen to six-year lows on concerns about growth in China, the

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world’s biggest energy user, as well as high output in the United States and the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, but have since crept higher. The recent rally began last week after data showed a drop in US drilling activity, raising hopes this would help ease the oversupply. Expectations that the Federal Reserve would not raise interest rates this year because of the weak global economy also boosted oil prices, analysts said. Bernard Aw, market strategist at IG Markets in Singapore, said an interest rate hike seemed less likely after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Tuesday downgraded its growth forecasts for the world economy. The global economy will expand just 3.1 percent this year and 3.6 percent next year, the IMF predicted, revising downward its previous forecasts by 0.2 percentage points in both cases.

HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 18

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

Your Horoscope for the Week of October 9, 2015 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 Pour yourself into what you love to do most. Whether it be writing or woodworking, you’ll excel by applying your passion to whatever you do. Plan, design and tinker your projects to completion. Your final product is far from ready, but your ideas are budding into reality. Prolong the process a little, it’ll be well worth the wait. Minor health/fitness mini-crisis situations appear plentiful but do fix fast if you use ‘creative’ input and ‘patient’ steadiness; most illness/injury situations are born out of worry, insecurity and ‘nerves’.

You know how to listen to the problems facing family members. Your experience and know-how will help them get back on track. Those experiences will provide insight and awareness that will come in handy in your day-to-day life. Satisfaction will be your reward. Financial investments will also be lucrative. You can persuade others to support your plans for the future. You will not be in a position to proposition others. Consider your personal needs before your professional ones.

Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May You are unusually persuasive where financial dealings are involved. You’ll be full of energy and full of yourself. Your timing may not be quite as good, but you’ll be able to find some safe ground if you proceed slow. Conversations about things that you know well will develop into discussions of ideals. Your performance could capture the attention of people who might want to hire or consult with you in the near future. Be very casual about your interest, but keep yourself focused on their needs.

Need to get away from reality, sometimes. You’ll be ready to try anything that promises to bring you a little excitement. Travel and adventure will be your prime concern. Take care of all the fine details and you will receive the praise you are looking for. You should lay your cards on the table and let those you care about know where you stand. You can get ahead financially, however the emotional side of your life may be more difficult. You’ll be able to organize functions at work and earn the admiration of higher ups.

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

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June You will be blessed this week by your ability to help others through an emotional time in their lives. Domestic issues may threaten to put a damper on your passion. Keep a positive attitude and deeper understanding will prevail. No one will question your knowledge or skills, but maybe you should take on a new strategy. No one wants to listen to a ranting fool, so cool you heels and get down to the business at hand. Propose your ideas calmly and concisely. You want to help others, but you know they need to help themselves first.

Teamwork, friendships & accomplishments. Lucrative business opportunities are likely. Take the plunge and get involved in a joint venture. Avoid detail-oriented tasks, try to work with others as much as possible. Try a little idea-generation and offer your assistance to colleagues. Don’t say things that may come back to haunt you. Personal problems will play on your mind. You must be willing to move on and let go of the past if you wish to get over the unpleasantness you’ve experienced.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July You will be safe due to ability to see past the immediate and protect your own interests. Seek refuge from a world that’s obviously trying to annoy you. Security is very important to you right now. Once you feel more secure, you’ll have more room to move and more time to play. A partnership may be a little more demanding than usual. Running away from your problems will not help the situation. You need to resolve your confusion by applying patience and persistence.

You have the ability to make connections that help you discover who you are and what your goals are. Do the best you can and try to enlist some help from other friends or relatives. Helping others will be rewarding to you. Uncertainties regarding finances may upset you. Take a stab at doing your own thing or take time off to discover what you really want to do. Don’t take on other people’s problems. Make suggestions and get on with your own life. By week’s end, things will start to turn in your favor.

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

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August A sense of excitement in your personal as well as your professional life. You’ll experience a surprising amount of passion. Life is interesting when there’s some mystery involved. Channel your desires into activities that are community oriented. Nothing is certain, but you’re in a good position for advancement. You’re wealthy and well-equipped spiritually. You’ll be able to find deeper meanings to your spiritual feelings. Your stars show a very significant ‘change’ and maybe an ‘omen’.

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Your sense of belonging to something will be greater. Others may strive to win, you are happy just to belong. It doesn’t take much to remind you of how lucky you feel. Incorporate your imagination into everything you do. The more you learn, the more eager you will be to use your knowledge. Original thinking will help you to see a broader perspective. Beware of the troubles into which your insecurities could get you. Satisfaction could be a lot closer than you thought.

Your intention is to follow your dreams. You certainly are a master when it comes to learning the things that interest you, but a daydreamer when forced to listen to boring, tedious chatter. You are quick to respond and always willing to help others. You will be upset with those who don’t pull their weight, remain cool but don’t allow yourself to be used. You are used to giving your all and will be ready to blow up if you are forced to deal with lazy and inconsiderate individuals.

Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March You will have ability to reconnect with past friends & family. You will have no problem finding ways to get others interested in what you are doing. Organize events that require endurance. Spend time with those who have similar interests & morals. Channel your energy into making money. Debates will bring distance between you and your friends. Flat tire, out of gas, road hassles or delays and other form of ‘challenge’ can make you late for important events; have a plan B ready!

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CLASSIFIEDS Property Manager

We are looking for an experienced and skilled Apartment Manager to lead our community to continued success. Job Summary We have a Property Manager position available in Houston, TX and Oklahoma City, OK. The Property Manager’s main responsibilities include: the overall daily operations and management of the property, as well as all of the activities within leasing, revenue management, ﬁscal planning, resident, and community relations. Responsibilities • • • • • • • • • • •

Direct and participate in the daily operations of the property

Responsible for implementing and completing a successful turn that ensures resident satisfaction

Performs monthly unit inspections, as well as prior to move-in and move-out Assist with leasing duties as needed and approving all new leases Overseeing the risk management and emergency procedures Managing staff including; hiring, training, and developing Maintain positive resident relations Responsible for purchases for the property and monitoring all expenses Maintaining system for service requests Reporting on payroll and employee records Maintain the resident database, accounts receivable, and accounts payable records

Requirements • • • •

Bachelor degree strongly preferred, high school diploma required

2 years of experience as a Property Manager with a proven track record of achievements

Proven proﬁciency in all areas of property management operations Must have excellent communication, management, and people skills

Please submit your resume to this posting for consideration. Thank you, Fax: 888.761.8942

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MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY FROM HBR.ORG Know When Your Boss Can Help Resolve a Conflict Sometimes it’s better to address a conflict indirectly. For example, if you’re working in a culture where group harmony is important, you may not be able to directly confront someone about an issue. And sometimes people are more willing to take feedback from others — either someone more powerful or a close confidant. In these cases, it’s best to get a third party involved. Go to your boss and explain the problem. If a colleague is preventing you from running a successful meeting, your boss can step in and move the conversation along. Or if you and another team member don’t agree on how to spend your shared budget, you might ask your boss to make the decision,. That way, neither of you loses and you’re just carrying out your manager’s orders. In Western culture this indirect approach might be frowned upon, but in other places it’s more effective for handling disagreement. Adapted from The HBR Guide to Managing Conflict at Work, by Amy Gallo

Houston Community College Notice of Procurement Opportunities

CSP 16-04 Rerooﬁng at HCC’s Katy Campus. A preproposal meeting for CSP 16-04 will be held at HCCS Katy Campus, 1550 Foxlake Drive, Houston, Texas 77084, on Tuesday, October 13, 2015, at 10:00 a.m. (local time). Documents can be obtained at: www.hccs. edu/district/departments/ procurement. Sealed proposals will be received in Procurement Operations (3100 Main Street, Room No. 11A06, Houston, Texas 77002) until 2:00PM (local time) on Wednesday, October 28, 2015.

FRIDAY, October 9, 2015

RESTAURANT FOR SALE RESTAURANT FOR SALE

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4 Bed, 2 Bath, 2 Car Attached Garage. Walking distance to Liestman Elementary School. New Tiles, Granite counter tops, Stainless steel fridge, washer/dryer.

Contact: Ron Aga - Realtor Cell: 832-423-6973

Fast Food Franchise With Drive Thru 3003 Texas Pkwy, Missouri City, Tx 77489

Building space: 1458 sft. • Lot size: 1.07 acre Great location for Private fast Food Concept. • Corner lot, easy access. • Lots of Trafﬁc. • Good neighborhood. • Newly widened road. • Great visibility.

• As-is, where-is sale. • No warranties. • No guarantees. • No repairs will be done.

Excellent for fast food operations! Call Amit Mehta 832-607-1579 • universalproperties@gmail.com

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FRIDAY, October 9, 2015