Voice of Asia E-paper September 14, 2018 by VoiceOf Asia

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VOICE OF ASIA The Largest Asian-American Newsweekly in Texas

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FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

In Section 2 l HEALTHLINE

2019 Medicare Part D Late-Enrollment Penalties will decrease, penalties up

l YOUNG LIFE

Students struggling with depression are finding schools won't help

l BUSINESS Imran Khan leaving Snap to start his own investment firm

Vol. 32 No. 36 • FRIDAY, September 14, 2018 Published Weekly from Houston 24 Pages (2 sections) 50 cents 713-774-5140 • E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com

Indian American Cancer Network celebrates 'Empowering Mind and Body' Gala 2018

OUSTON - The Indian American Cancer Network (IACAN) celebrated its biennial gala with the theme of “Empowering Mind and Body” on Saturday, September 8, 2018 at the Red Oak Ballroom-City Centre. The gala was attended by over 375 guests who praised the event as well organized, inspiring, and fun.

by Sudeept Mishra, TNN

HOPAL, India, 9/12/2018 - I am like this because I never got any love from my father, alleged serial killer Aadesh Khamra told interrogators on Wednesday in a rare display of emotion. “No one cared for me. I became an introvert. I had so much anger deep inside me that I didn’t realise when I grew up to be a violent man,” Khamra, who has admitted to killing 33 truck drivers, told SP-south Lodha Rahul Kumar. Police are not taking his statement at face value, though.

The evening began with a social hour while guests mingled with one another, browsed balloon pop prizes, and enjoyed appetizers. After the guests were ushered into their seats in the ballroom, the program began with the auspicious lighting of the lamp ceremony followed by Mrs. Mani Sastry’s melodious invocation song that transformed the ambiance into one of peace and tranquility. The emcee, Ms. Anasuya Kabad, eloquently set the stage for a beautiful evening. The program began with remarks from the Gala Chair, Mrs. Kanchan Kabad about her personal connection to IACAN’s mission. Mrs. Arlene Thomas, President of IACAN, highlighted the accomplishments for the past two years in conducting community outreach programs, survivor activities, and bone marrow registration drives. She also reported on IACAN’s past and forthcoming collaborative health studies, and closed with a request to stay engaged with IACAN and its community service activities. The audience was inspired by IACAN’s work in providing mammograms to uninsured and underinsured South Asian women. The evening continued with reflections from Mrs. Vibhuti Shah as a cancer survivor and currently serving as a Board Member of IACAN. This was followed by Mrs. Raji Sabhapathy’s narration of her experience as a caregiver, which was heartwarming. The Keynote Address by Dr. Patrick Hwu, Head of the Division of Cancer Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center, was an informative talk explaining in simple terms how immunotherapy, the most recent revolution in cancer care is being used by him and others in the clinic. He explained how patient’s own T cells, a major architects of the immune sys-

Serial killer blames it all on childhood trauma

Serial killer Aadesh Khamra has confessed that he killed 33 people. (Photo: India Today)

During interrogation, he has come across as a master manipulator — a skill that helped him befriend the men he planned to kill. IACAN Board Members (not in order above): President: Arlene Mathew, MSW, LMSW, Secretary: Sarvesh Bhavaraju, MS, Treasurer: Dipika Varia, Raju Nandagiri, BS, Jagannadha Sastry, PhD, Vibhuti Shah, Ashma Khanani-Moosa, Monalisa Chandra, PhD student, and Past President: Kumari Susarla, BS, MT (ASCP). (Photos courtesy Indu Gosar, Coordinator IACAN)

From what he has told police, his father Gulab Khamra retired from the Army as a naib subedaar, and brought parade-ground discipline home. “He says his father was very harsh with him in childhood. He used to beat Aadesh and throw him out of the house for even petty things,” Lodha told TOI on Wednesday. The killer believes this upbringing led to a change in his behaviour and personality. “This coldblooded killer was himself a victim of childhood trauma. It’s probably there that he developed the violent psyche that led him to commit murder without a shred of remorse,” said a police officer, adding: “We are cross-checking everything he says. He’s a very shrewd one.”

IACAN recognized three bone marrow donors, Ms. Ayesha Khan, Mr. Zain Kassam, and Ms. Fouzia Mohammad. The awards were presented by Mrs. Gaytri Kapoor, Advisory Board Member of IACAN, who is actively involved in the recruitment of bone marrow donors. tem, are trained and used to destroy cancer cells. Because each patient‘s cancer is unique, empowering his or her own cells to eliminate cancer cells is the novelty and superiority

for personalized cancer care. Kalaangan School of Odissi presented Raktabeeja Badh, an Indian Continued on page 3

Police have now found that his footprints in crime go back to 2005-06, when he started with extortion, and not 2010 as earlier believed. Khamra came in contact with people involved in crime very early in life and was influenced by his ‘uncle’, dreaded killer Ashok Khamra, who boasted of murdering over 100 people. His first truck heist was in 2007 when he came in contact with a gang and looted a truck. But he did not kill the driver, perhaps because he was only a cog in the wheel then, not the kingpin, say police. After this, he became an active member of the truck robbers’ gang, and within three years had built his own band of highway robbers and his macabre drug-and-kill modus operandi.

“After committing the first theft, Khamra started murdering truck drivers because he did not want to leave any evidence that could help police trace him. He went on a robbing spree and was caught by Maharashtra police in 2010,” said Lodha. He got bail from Nagpur jail after one-and-a-half years and roped in some of the criminals he had met during court transits. When he was back on the highway with his killer smile, he had perfected the art of clean crimes, Lodha said. He avoided toll booths and would strip every bit of cloth from his victims. In fact, he would still be on the highway murdering people had it not been for a goof-up by his accomplice, Jaikaran, who committed a murder without his knowledge and dumped the body carelessly near the locality where the victim lived. A cloth tag led police to Jaikaran and then to Aadesh. Jaikaran had assisted him in at least 11 murders, say police. After investigating the killings by Khamra and his gang, police realised that they followed a pattern and committed most of their killings on NH-6, which runs from Mumbai to Kolkata. To sell the cargo and truck, they usually took the Bhopal-Guna-Gwalior state highway. Khamra has told police that they chose this route as it has only a single toll booth till Gwalior. Police are issuing an advisory to truck drivers, cleaners and transporters to prevent them from becoming targets of highway robbers. “Don’t give lift to strangers in the lure of quick money, don’t get friendly with strangers, including other truck drivers, and don’t share food or drinks with them,” the note says. -Times New Network

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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

VOICE OF ASIA 2

By L. Sarah DeMerchant, candidate State Representative, District 26 (Richmond and Sugar Land)

VOICE OF ASIA Publisher: Associate Publisher: Editor-in-Chief: Austin Correspondent: Marketing Director: Office Manager:

Koshy Thomas Sherly Philip Shobana Muratee Sherine Thomas Susan Pothanikat Priyan Mathew

ool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me.” This is an old saying which comes to mind when I think of the Republican filmmaker, Dinesh D'Souza. He first retweeted a link to his film with the hashtag #BurnTheJews. He was met with a lot of criticism over this. His response was it was a mis-

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Fool Me Once take he did not see the hashtag when he retweeted. Of course, this is met with the proverbial “ya, right” and with the eye roll. Next, he doubles down on his position by retweeting again but this time with the hashtag #BringBackSlavery. Then he lashes out at the media for making a big deal about it. I understand we have the right to free speech, but these rac-

I mention Fort Bend County because the Fort Bend County Republican Party decided it would be a great fund-raising opportunity to bring Dinesh D'Souza to Fort Bend as a key note speaker.

up the street at Safari Texas Ranch on FM 1464. I could not believe the audacity of the Republican Party to admire someone who is obviously so racist and to do it in such a diverse county as Fort Bend. I am personally outraged at this and we as a community must stand up and let them know this is unacceptable. Shame, shame, shame on the Republican Party for bringing him to our county.

This event happened right

- DemocratDeMerchant.com

ist statements have no place in the USA, Texas, or Fort Bend County.

Contributors: By Catherine Powell

Legal: Sharlene Sharmila Richards Mala Sharma

VoiceofAsiaOnline.com Editor Online:

Shobana Muratee

All rights reserved. No material herein or portions thereof may be published without the consent of the publisher. Voice of Asia assumes no liability resulting from action taken based on the information included herein. Published weekly by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713-7745143. Email for editorial submissions: voiceasia@aol. com; Email for advertising inquiries and submissions: ads@voiceofasiagroup.com

It is the policy of Voice of Asia to publish letters to the editor which evidence a variety of viewpoints. The opinions expressed in any particular letter to the editor are not necessarily those of the management. Voice of Asia welcomes letters in reply to issues raised in letters to editor. In as much letters to the editor are not articles written or researched by members of Voice of Asia, it is not the policy of the Voice of Asia to perform any investigation or confirmation of any facts or allegations contained in letters to the editor. Moreover, Voice of Asia reserves the right to edit letters to the editor as necessary to correct errors of fact, punctuation, spelling and to comply with space constraints. Although paid advertisements may appear in Voice of Asia Group Publications in print, online, or in other electronic formats, the Voice of Asia Group does not endorse the advertised product, service, or company, nor any of the claims made by the advertisement. - The Publisher

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his week, White House national security adviser John Bolton slammed the International Criminal Court in the latest shot across the bow the Trump administration has taken against multilateral institutions. However, Bolton’s attack on the ICC is particularly shortsighted. As I have written before, it is in the United States interest, in our interest in national and international security, to support this court. Even before joining the Trump administration, Bolton penned a piece in the Wall Street Journal that the United States should welcome the opportunity to “strangle the ICC in its cradle” or at least to tell the ICC Prosecutor that “you are dead to us.” As Bush administration legal adviser John Bellinger confirms, Bolton led the charge during George W. Bush’s first term to oppose the fledgling court, including by “unsigning” the Rome Statute that created the ICC and bullying U.S. allies into signing more than one hundred Article 98 agreements promising not to surrender American officials to the court. However, the Bush administration’s hostility to the court began to evaporate, as officials soon began to recognize that many of the most important U.S. allies were members of the ICC and that the court could serve American policy goals. The idea behind creating the ICC emerged from the ashes of World War II and the Nazi Holocaust. It took another half century after the founding of the UN before the ICC came into effect. Its establishment not only offers a way to punish war atrocities, but also deters would-be abusers from even contemplating committing genocide and other serious international crimes. International criminal justice is important not only to secure justice for victims, but also to preserve rule of law and promote greater peace, security, and stability in an otherwise tumultuous world. When courts dispense justice, aggrieved individuals and communities are less likely to take matters into their own hands, which can escalate into serious conflicts with spillover effects for all. National courts can occasionally prosecute these crimes, but are sometimes not willing or able to do so. While the ICC is a relatively new institution, it has investigated numerous allegations and prosecuted several cases, leading to a handful of convictions thus far in cases ranging from the use of child soldiers to the war crime of murder. Even so, under the principle of complementarity, the court will not prosecute cases where the relevant country has taken necessary steps to investigate and punish war crimes. Such deference to state sovereignty, which the United States fought for in negotiating the ICC statute, should address any con-

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International Criminal Court plays important role in global rule of law

cerns the President has about the ICC prosecuting the United States for alleged misconduct in Afghanistan. It is shortsighted for the Trump administration to undermine support for the important work the ICC does, as the court has played a significant role in advancing interests that the United States paved the way for following World War II, and there are many ways that America can support the court without formally becoming a party. Thus, the Trump administration should pursue a policy of “positive engagement” with the court (an approach pioneered by former legal adviser Harold Koh), which has enabled the United States to participate as an “observer” in the ICC’s Assembly of States

Parties to ensure U.S. interests are met. The United States could also continue to offer support for specific prosecutions, on a case by case basis — for example through cooperation on witness protection — and could offer expertise and logistical assistance in collection of evidence or in efforts to apprehend ICC fugitives. The United States took similar steps to support the International Criminal Tribunal for the Former Yugoslavia (ICTY), such as by providing the ICTY Prosecutor with aerial images showing the construction of mass graves at Srebrenica. ICC expert, Ambassador (ret.) David Sheffer, perfectly crystallizes this moment, noting, “John Bolton’s speech…

severely undermines our leadership in bringing perpetrators of atrocity crimes to justice elsewhere in the world[, and t] he double standard set forth in his speech will likely play well with authoritarian regimes, which will resist accountability for atrocity crimes and ignore international efforts to advance the rule of law.” Catherine Powell is an adjunct senior fellow with the Council on Foreign Relations and a law professor at Fordham University. She is a former director for human rights on the National Security Council and was on the policy planning staff at the State Department. This column draws upon her previous writing on the International Criminal Court. - TheHill.com

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ISKCON of Houston celebrates Janmasthami

IACAN celebrates 'Empowering Mind and Body' Gala 2018...

OUSTON - This year, ISKCON of Houston, celebrated the auspicious occasion – Janmasthami (Lord Krishna’s Appearance Day) in a huge way, with midnight aarti (worship), inspiring kirtan, enlivening dancing and mesmerizing performances by Viva Kultura, a traveling theatre group from Poland.

classical dance drama. The unique composition represented the daily struggle of cancer patients and their care givers, through the story of the demon Raktabeeja.

The annual festival – Kirtan Fest Houston, that started on Saturday had devotees and visiting guests immersed in spirituality before Monday’s Janmasthami festival and continued on through Tuesday, when Srila Prabhupada’s Appearance Day festival was celebrated. This year’s Kirtan Fest included numerous famous Kirtan singers from ISKCON, such as Indradyumna Swami and Bhakti Bhringa Govinda Swami. Devotees also heard and danced to the melodious tunes from Bada Haridas, Akincana Krishna Dasa (formerly of Glassjaw band), Krishna Kishore Dasa (of Mayapuris) and Havi Dasa (a Latin Grammy Award winner). Janmasthami is celebrated worldwide by the devotees of Krishna as the most important festival in the vaishnava calendar. Janmashtami is observed by fasts and feasts, sacred chants and personal prayers and above all, the glorification of his holy name in the form of musical mantra meditation, kirtan. Over 5000 people attended the events with the devotee community to celebrate the biggest birthday party for the year. They all experienced a cultural revolution of the heart as they milled about the various tents, met our beautiful calves – that came specially to visit from the Bhakti Urban Farm and heard talks from Srimad Bhagavad Gita and Srimad Bhagavatam by visiting saints like Their

Sri Sri Radha Nilamadhava in Their resplendent new outfits at Midnight darshan. (Photos courtesy Thejas K. Rajaram)

Continued from Front Page

The dance drew a parallel between the evil of cancer and the character of Raktabeeja, and stressed on management strategies through the portrayal of the collaboration of the two goddesses, Durga and Kali, who annihilated the demon through strategic coalition. The team of dancers that included Supradipta Datta, Madhuri Vasudevan, Diksha Rath, Trisha Chatterjee, Maumita Sadhukhan, Anushri Gupta and Krisha Rath mesmerized the audience with their presentation. The next part of the evening showcased the honorees of the evening. Dr. Jagan Sastry, Board Member of IACAN, introduced and highlighted the work of the Lifetime of Service awardees, Dr. James Allison, who pioneered the cancer immunotherapy approach, and Dr. Sewa Legha, a longtime member of the IACAN’s medical advisory board, who provides constant and unwavering support.

The devotees and guests enjoyed the annual Kirtan Fest Houston during the weekend preceeding Sri Krishna Janmashtami. Holiness Indradyumna Swami, Bhakti Bhringa Govinda Swami, Giriraj Swami, Bhakti Sundar Goswami and so many more exalted Vaisnavas. With fresh flowers decorating their Lordships, Sri Sri Radha Nilamadhava, devotees got to have a very special viewing, or darshan, of the deities. On Sunday and Monday, a

colorful costume contest was taking place followed by various music concerts and traditional dance performances by students of several Texas’ premiere arts schools. As Monday midnight drew closer, devotees were roused to their feet by the soul stirring and ecstatic kirtan of Indradyumna Swami, causing several to shed tears of

320

IACAN also recognized three bone marrow donors, Ms. Ayesha Khan, Mr. Zain Kassam, and Ms. Fouzia Mohammad. The awards were presented by Mrs. Gaytri Kapoor, Advisory Board Member of IACAN, who is actively involved in the recruitment of bone marrow donors. Ms.

happiness when the curtains opened to reveal Their Lordships in all Their beauty and splendor. How could a festival that celebrates the embodiment of love not be filled with love

Kalaangan School of Odissi presented Raktabeeja Badh, an Indian classical dance drama. (Photos courtesy Indu Gosar, Coordinator IACAN)

The Keynote Address by Dr. Patrick Hwu, Head of the Division of Cancer Medicine at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Fouzia Mohammad spoke about her experience as a donor. The evening’s program ended with a big laugh! Chaplain Stephen M. Findley facilitated a laughing yoga session that had the guests filled with

itself? We hope to see you at our future celebrations so that you too could experience the joy and wonder that was felt that night. Please visit us at www.

laughter and joy. IACAN is grateful for the support of its volunteers, donors, and the community. For more information about IACAN, please visit www.iacannetwork.org.

iskconhouston.org and like and follow us on Facebook (ISKCON of Houston), to keep up to date on all the awesome festivals that occur right here in the heart of Houston.

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 4

BOOK REVIEW

the invocation and plunge your soul's eye into what the Bengali vision of life's shattering senses. Give yourself over to abandon and rebirth by considering this effort on Mr. Das' part. Your unsettled heart will never recover fully, and you will be the better for it.

The Fourth Child: Glimpses of Twentieth Century Bengali Poetry by Prabir Das

well-heeled writer of short stories, plays and poetry in both Bengali and English, Mr. Das is also a renowned photographer and poet/actor. In The Fourth Child, he has deftly translated a wealth of Bengali poetry from the past 100 years (from colonial times to this century's turning up). They range from religious/spiritual exaltations, nature odes, and cries for love and it's desires.

impact at the time. Turn the page and the reader is given a beautiful full page photograph next to a series of poems in English and

The coffee-table sized volume is fully illustrated with an eye-opening introduction and notes on Bengali flavorings (linguistically-speaking). Then we are introduced to a poet with a page of biography, illustration, and analysis of his/her

its original verbiage. In a few examples, the image is drawn across the pages to encompass the words

Photo by Prabir Das

HCC Weekend College finalist for Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board award

OUSTON (September 11, 2018) – Houston Community College Weekend College is one of five finalists for the 2018 Star Awards for exceptional contributions toward meeting one or more of the goals of the Texas higher education plan, 60x30TX. Designed for working adults who want a degree, HCC's Weekend College offers the opportunity to receive an associate degree in two years by attending school only on Saturdays. Classes are offered in 8-week sessions. Students take two courses at a time and the entire two-year schedule is mapped out ahead of time. "The weekend college is right in line with the goals of the 60X30TX," said Norma Perez, vice chancellor of instructional services and chief academic officer. "We are utilizing innovation to create pathways to success for our students, allowing them to complete their degrees as quickly and cost-efficiently as possible." The Texas Higher Education

Coordinating Board received 36 nominations and 26 applications for this year’s Star Award. The four other finalists are Alamo Colleges, Teach Denton Integrated Collaborative, Texas A&M International University and The University of Texas at Tyler. The Star Award program recognizes exceptional contributions toward meeting one or more of the goals of 60x30TX: Increasing the postsecondary educational attainment level of the state’s 25 to 34-year-old population. Increasing the number of students completing a certificate, associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree from an institution of higher education in Texas. Increasing the number of programs with identified marketable skills at Texas public institutions of higher education. Implementing programs or cost efficiencies that help to

ensure that undergraduate student loan debt will not exceed 60 percent of first-year wages. Star Award finalists will be publicly recognized for their efforts. The winner will be announced Nov. 30 during the annual Star Awards luncheon and ceremony to be held in conjunction with the 2018 Texas Higher Education Leadership Conference Nov. 29-30 in Austin. About HCC Houston Community College (HCC) is composed of 15 Centers of Excellence and numerous satellite centers that serve the diverse communities in the Greater Houston area by preparing individuals to live and work in an increasingly international and technological society. HCC is one of the country’s largest singly-accredited, open-admission, community colleges offering associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and lifelong learning opportunities. To learn more, visit www.hccs.edu.

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

on the page (see the marching ants shown here). Playful yet pensive, sprawling but contained collections, rising, rising until we find our eyes at the cream-colored endpapers, wanting to reimburse. Obviously, the compiler poet has evoked a spell over the viewer, as the shamanic headless doll was warning us on the dust cover of this book. Make your mark (finger or footprint), heed

Born and raised in Kolkata, India, Prabir Das was inclined towards various art forms since an early age. A lead actor in all his school plays, he went on to direct his first play at the age of 19. When he was four year old, his father passed away leaving the family in extreme economic hardship. But the worst was yet to come when at the age of 16, his mother passed away suddenly. These challenges drove young Prabir inwards and he found refuge in poetry books and hence began his life long love affair with Bengali poetry. A student of literature, Prabir

Das worked as a journalist in India. Prabir Das published his first collection of short stories in Bengali at the age of 20. Soon after, his first short film was screened in 1984. The camera lens became his way to examine the world and he established his own photography studio in 1987. Prabir also worked as an accredited member of the Eastern India Cine Still Photographers’ Association. He established a community theater (known as group theatre in India) at the age of 23 and was deeply engrossed in it. Nonetheless, his life took an unexpected turn and brought him to USA halting suddenly the natural journey of his creativity. (Available on Amazon.com) ISBN 9780692084991 -Review by David Garvin/ Voice of Asia

VOICE OF ASIA 5

Fort Bend View

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

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

Section 1

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

New sign honoring slain SLPD Sergeant installed at Ron Slockett Memorial Park

UGAR LAND – A new recognition sign in honor of Sgt. Ron Slockett was installed at Ron Slockett Memorial Park, 12821 Nantucket Drive, on Sept. 7. On the night of July 4, 1987, Slockett was killed while making a traffic stop and became the first and only Sugar Land police officer killed in the line of duty. He was 31 at the time of his death and was survived by his wife, two children and four siblings. “Slockett was a devoted officer known for loving people, loving his job and his great sense of humor,” said Police Chief Eric Robins. “He was a 10year veteran who left a mark on almost every person he met.” The neighborhood park named for Slockett includes a remembrance plaque, but many Sugar Land residents expressed interest in learning more about him. The newly installed recognition sign tells of his story and sacrifice. Excerpts follow: He served in the United States Marine Corps and worked a dispatch job

with the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office before joining the Sugar Land Police Department. He served on Sugar Land’s police force for 10 years. One citizen remembers Slockett visiting him frequently during his overnight shift at a gas station to make sure he was safe. Another officer from a neighboring community who often patrolled alone recalls Slockett taking coffee breaks with him during long shifts and always reassuring him that he was “just a shout away.” “He will be long remembered by the Sugar Land community,” said Robins. “The Slockett recognition sign also reminds us of the commitment law enforcement officers like Slockett make to protect our communities and is one of the many recognition signs in Sugar Land parks to remember the culture, history and people of the community.” Ron Slockett Memorial Park is an 8.6acre park that contains a playground, a four-tenths mile trail, a sand volleyball court, tennis court, covered shelters, picnic tables, park benches and ample parking. - City of Sugar Land

Fort Bend ISD earns honor for its investment policy

ORT BEND ISD (September 6, 2018) – Fort Bend ISD has received the Certificate of Distinction from the Government Treasurers’ Organization of Texas (GTOT) for its investment policy. FBISD earned the honor after satisfying a list of criteria that included ethical disclosure, reporting and review practices, and investment training. Fort Bend ISD is one of only three school districts to be awarded the Certificate of Distinction. The certification is valid until 2020.

“We work hard to be good stewards of taxpayer funds. Therefore, it is always gratifying when an independent third party recognizes us for our efforts,” says Steven Bassett, FBISD’s Chief Financial Officer. The Government Treasurers’ Organization of Texas is a state association dedicated to supporting the work and professional development of treasurers in public and private sector organizations. Visit the Government Treasurers’ Organization of Texas to learn more about the organization.

FBISD’s Small Business Enterprise Program to host meeting, Wed., Sept. 26

ort Bend ISD’s Small Business Enterprise Program (SBEP) is hosting its first meeting of the 2018-19 school year on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the FBISD Triplex (550 Julie Rivers, Sugar Land 77478). The SBEP is teaming up with the Woman’s Contractor Association, Houston Community College and University of Houston for this meeting. Contractors, subcontractors and other small businesses that are interested in partnering with the District and learning more about projects included in Phase 3 of the 2014 Bond Program are invited to attend. Those in attendance will also learn more about construction and nonconstruction small business opportunities. September’s Meeting Agenda General Contractor/Subcontractor – “Project Management” LaTosha Norwood – L’Renee & Associates Upcoming Projects Gaurav Agarwal, Jacobs Engi-

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Register online if you’re interested in attending. Fill out the SBEP W o r k shop Vendor Booth Form if you’re interested in getting a vendor exhibit booth. -FBISD

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Economic study ranks the “Show Me City” as one of America’s best locales to open a small business

ISSOURI CITY - A recent Verizon “Best Small Cities for Small Businesses” report positions the “Show Me City” as one of America’s best places to operate a company in, ranking the area as No. 42 in a list of the nation’s top 50. Evidence of this achievement and the area’s thriving economy was visible last month when City officials and staff hosted a “Doing Business With the City” Leadership Luncheon that drew more than 150 business owners, managers and stakeholders who are interested in seeing the pace of growth and development continue at a steady pace. Overall, the Luncheon presentation focused on how individuals can build a business partnership with the City, how they can register as a vendor and how they can pursue competitive bid contracts. Missouri City is a prime commercial location that can provide strategic value to any company, we are open for business and we are looking to grow our economic development base with companies large and small,” said City Manager Anthony J. Snipes. “The Show Me City also offers an attractive incentive package to businesses and programs that is designed to help industries prosper.” The Verizon findings, compiled of data gathered from about 300 cities nationwide, highlights the City’s dedication to expansion. Criteria for the corporation’s report, included: • Population: The network considered cities made up of 50,000 to 75,000 people as “small”; • Education: The network examined the percentage of the population

More than 150 small- and medium-sized businesses attended a recent Missouri City Leadership Luncheon series to learn about business partnership opportunities. (Photo: Missouri City) older than 25 who held a bachelor’s degree or higher from accredited universities or colleges;

• Tax scores: The network determined how tax-friendly each city is for businesses.

• Travel time to work: The network reviewed the average total travel time it takes individuals 16 and older to reach work from their residences; this metric takes into account carpooling, public transportation and traffic;

In sharing the results, the Verizon team noted that Missouri City is in the top 16.6 percent of small cities across the nation; the full report may be viewed here: https://vz.to/2wJRNGM. The network also noted that Missouri City is an environment where small businesses can thrive and that City officials and staff are helping to lead the way for the future of entrepreneurs.

• Income per capita: The network considered the average cumulative income of residents in the cities that are on the list; • Broadband access: The network looked at access to Internet service running at speeds of at least 10 Mbps download time and 1 Mbps upload time in each of the cities; • Loans per capita: The network looked at the process, convenience for individuals seeking a business loan in the cities; and

Missouri City was the only municipality in the region to make Verizon’s national list; other Texas cities recognized are: Mansfield (24) and Georgetown (28). For updates, please watch the City website: www.missouricitytx.gov, like us on Facebook — fb/MissouriCityTX, follow us on Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat — @MissouriCityTX

Harmony School Katy makes best high school list Children at Risk, a nonprofit organization that studies Texas' public education system, recently released its annual rankings for the Lone Star State's best high schools. Harmony Science Academy - Katy made the ranking. Harmony School of Innovation in Sugar Land also ranked high in the scoring.

sk any teacher: strong fundamentals are the building block to a good student.

Children at Risk, a nonprofit organization that studies Texas' public education system, recently released its annual rankings for the Lone Star State's best high schools. The rankings can serve as a handy evidencebased tool to narrow down the cream of the crop in public education.

Harmony Science Academy - Children at Risk grade: A ,Texas rank: 103 (Photo: Harmony Science Academy)

Their data shows that even schools within the same district can differ vastly in quality of education. In order to rank the schools, researchers examined standardized test scores and student achievement. Harmony School of Innovation Sugar Land received a Children at Risk grade of A+, placing it in the Texas rank at 45th. With a college acceptance rate of 100 percent, Harmony Public Schools have earned the reputation of providing a distinct, high-quality education. Our schools also have the honor of being Texas Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (T-STEM) field pioneer schools.

Cinco Ranch High School, Katy ISD - Children at Risk grade: A, Texas rank: 80 (Photo: Deel2, Wikimedia Commons)

Fort Bend County breaks ground on $21M transit center

o ease traffic congestion, one Houston-area county is constructing a new building to house its transportation-related activities. Fort Bend County broke ground Aug. 29 on a $21 million transit center, according to a press release from Houstonbased Lockwood Andrews & Newman Inc., or LAN, which provided the planning, engineering and

design services for the project. The new facility will allow the county to maintain and expand its current public bus fleet of 60 as well as consolidate administration , operations, dispatch,

fueling and maintenance from four locations into one. When complete in October 2019, the new building will include 18,600 square feet of office space, 28,400 square feet of maintenance bays, a 7,100-square-foot fuel and washing station plus covered bus parking, per the release. - HBJ

US NEWS

VOICE OF ASIA 6

Sewa International prepares to offer Carolina residents help as Hurricane Florence threatens the Mid-Atlantic states

TLANTA, GA (September 11, 2018) -- As Hurricane Florence approaches the East Coast of the United States, the governors of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia have issued mandatory evacuation orders affecting more than one million residents in the coastal areas. The Carolinas have not seen a category 3 hurricane in 22 years. The three affected states have a large Indian-American population, some of whom would be facing their first major hurricane ever. Sewa International's Director of Disaster Relief, Swadesh Katoch says that "Stores have already run out of essential supplies like water, bread, and bananas. Generators, storm radios, and sand bags are also difficult to find. Most gas stations in the coastal areas are running out of gas, and those who still have gas are jacking up the price." Katoch says last year's response to Hurricanes Harvey and Maria taught his team how to better respond to future events. He is rolling out the full disaster preparedness plan – including a remote operations center, teams on the ground in all major cities, and lining up logistics to haul in supplies after the storm, if needed. Kiran Krishna, the chapter President of Sewa Raleigh, and Venugopal Reddy, the chapter President of Sewa Charlotte are networking with government officials to keep the Indian community informed and prepared. Sewa International has set up a hot line -- 413-648-SEWA (7392) -- for use by Indian Americans in particular, and US residents in general. Anyone can call the hot line and ask for help. Sewa International has been using social media to post regular alerts and updates about the hurricane. Local Sewa teams in the Carolinas, Virginia, and Maryland are working with local temples and Indian organizations to

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Convert Hindus to Hinduism, says spiritual head of Chinmaya Mission

HICAGO - Delegates to the World Hindu Congress being held in Chicago received a special sweet box in their welcome packet containing two sweet ladoos, one hard and one soft. That box was symbolic and became a talking point to clarify the common perception that Hindu society is not united. A panel discussion on “Collective efforts for Hindu emergence,” opened with this backdrop.

Following Hurricane Harvey, a Sewa Houston team delivered much needed cleaning supplies to Alief School District. (Photos: Sewa International) keep the community together and be prepared to help each other. Sewa Teams in Atlanta and Boston are organizing to host evacuees. "We are especially concerned about the vulnerable population such as people who are home bound, sick, or have very young children. We are circulating WhatsApp messages with helpful information on how to prepare and tide over Hurricane Florence and its aftermath. While our hotline number is available all the time, the best way to stay updated with us is to like our

Facebook page - Sewa International," said Prof. Sreenath, President of Sewa International. "We are urging people in the optional evacuation areas to not wait for the last minute. If you think you may have to evacuate, leave now," said Kiran Krishna, President of the Raleigh Chapter of Sewa International. Sewa International, the leading Indian American nonprofit has extensive experience in disaster rescue, and relief and rehabilitation, having served in 23 disasters in the US and abroad. (-Sewa International)

Hindus were compared to watermelons, which has many stripes but, the inner core is one and the same. Contrast this to a pomegranate which looks smooth outside, but its core can easily disintegrate. The soft ladoo represents the status of Hindus today and they may be easily broken and swallowed. The future vision for Hindu society should be like a hard ladoo and strongly bonded. Swami Poornatmananda of Bharat Seva Ashram said all Hindus should unite to achieve resurgence. Hindu religious teaching are for humanity. As such, schools and colleges in India should be opened to impart Hindu teachings. Chinmaya Mission Spiritual Head Swami Swaroopananda said one need not merely state “I am a proud Hindu. We are proud Hindus.” On the resurgence of Hinduism, he said “everything begins at home.” When family breaks down, culture breaks down and life of disharmony follows, Swami Swaroopananda said. “We have to convert Hindus to Hinduism.” “The spirit of unity does not mean all should be the same. In the midst of diversity, we must have a common goal of dedication.”

Sewa Houston volunteers delivered much needed bottled water along with basic food stuffs to affected local residents in and around the Houston area.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat, Acharya Lokesh Muni, Swami Swaroopananda, Swami Purnatmananda, Chair SP Kothari, VP of Suriname Ashwin Adhin, Satguru Dalip Singh.

We have to reform the education system that inculcates Indian culture and religion.

The audience at the opening event. (Photos courtesy Manu Shah) We have to re-discover the way the rishis taught the disciples in the ancient gurukul system. Swami Paramatmananda, secretary general of Hindu Dharma Acharya Sabha, said Hindus should think collectively not only for its resurgence, but for the resurgence of the whole world. Especially, the ecological problems of the world need to be solved, he said. Further, society has a “relationship problem,” where one person is unable to relate to the life of another person. God did not create the world for man’s consumption. The responsibility lies on Hindus

to protect the ecology, he said. Sadguru Dalip Singh of Namdari Panth told the Congress that Hindus and Sikhs can never be separated. The Guru Granth Saheb says that Sikhs should remain Hindus. Sadguru Dalip Singh urged Hindus to stop using English to describe India and call it Bharath and Hindus who know Hindi should always speak in Hindi. He also decried those who habitually blamed their motherland. Instead, one should find what is good in India and espouse it. Sadguru Dalip Singh also visualized a Bharatiya organization encompassing Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and Buddhists.

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VOICE OF ASIA 7

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Voter turnout is low in the Midterms. Why don't many Americans vote?

US rights group wades into yoga pants school dress code row

HICAGO | AFP | Tuesday 9/11/2018 - Yoga pants and leggings have become a staple in the wardrobes of many Americans -- but one US school district is under fire for allegedly punishing young girls who wear them to class.

ust in the past few months, elections in the U.S. have been decided by hundreds of votes. The 2016 presidential election tilted to Donald Trump with fewer than 80,000 votes across three states, with a dramatic impact on the country. Yet, only about 6 in 10 eligible voters cast ballots in 2016.

Public schools in the Wisconsin lakeside city of Kenosha were defending themselves Tuesday against accusations of discriminating against female students who have embraced the "athleisure" style of wearing clothes designed for the gym in other casual settings. In March, the district rescinded a ban on yoga pants, leggings and tank tops amid outcry that the rules disproportionately targeted girls.

Among the other 4 in 10 who did not vote was Megan Davis. The 31-year-old massage therapist in Rhode Island never votes, and she's proud of her record.

But according to the Wisconsin branch of the American Civil Liberties Union -a top US rights group -- the overturned ban is still being "selectively" enforced.

"I feel like my voice doesn't matter," she said on a recent evening at a park in East Providence, R.I. "People who suck still are in office, so it doesn't make a difference."

In one case, a girl was sent home from summer school twice over her attire, according to local media.

Emily is a Kenosha high school student affected by the school district ban. (Photo: AFP)

"The ACLU received reports that the dress code was still selectively enforced against female students in a

manner that reinforced discriminatory sex stereotypes," the organization said in a

Davis might sound contrarian, but she's not. Although these days more Americans say they're enthusiastic about voting in a midterm election than at any point in the last two decades, come Election Day, nonvoters like Davis will still probably be the norm. For every 10 adults eligible to vote, only about four cast a ballot in the 2010 and 2014 midterm elections.

statement, saying that unclear guidelines were threatening students' rights. On Monday, the civil liberties group sent a list of recommendations to the district to "ensure students are protected from discrimination, harassment and degrading treatment." "Without these changes, female students will continue to disproportionately miss out on classroom time because of minor dress code infractions," the ACLU's Emma Roth said. The school district disputed the ACLU's account, saying its rollout of the new policy had gone "very well."

Many high school students ahve taken to the modern style of tight, thin pants since designers and trendy brands promote them as fashionable. Many young women enjoy the casual style as an everyday wear.

"We have taken reasonable steps in order to ensure that the student dress code policy is fair on its face and in its enforcement," the district told a local television station.

Tuesday, October 9 is the last day to register to vote in the November 6 election. For more information about registering to vote, check with Fort Bend County Elections at http://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/, under Services/Elections.

Wednesday, September 19 6 to 8 p.m. Kempner High School Auditorium 14777 Voss Rd., Sugar Land 77498

The wealthy tend to vote more frequently. Nonvoters are more likely to be poor, young, Hispanic or Asian-American.

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Tuesday, September 18 6 to 8 p.m. Austin High School Auditorium 3434 Pheasant Creek Drive Sugar Land 77498

Every election cycle there's a lot of attention on who voted and why. But there's another important question: Who is not voting — and what impact does that have?

Some people who want to vote but can't have been removed from the voting rolls. It's debatable whether elec- Across the country, the rate at which people are being purged from the voting rolls, a process historically intended to keep records updated, has increased substantially compared to a decade ago, according to a report from the Brennan Center published this summer. The analysis found 4 million more people Illustrations: smartboy/Getty Images were purged between 2014 and 2016 than in the equivalent petion results would be different if the entire population voted, but riod between 2006 and 2008. voting determines more than Legal obstacles are an imporwhich candidate wins or loses. tant part of the nonvoter story, It ultimately influences which but there are many millions of policies elected officials enact Americans who can vote and and whose interests candidates yet choose not to. Their reasons ignore and acknowledge. are vast: Some are apathetic "The one consistent finding or too busy. Others don't like from 1972 up through 2008 and their choices, they don't think in subsequent elections are that their vote matters, they think voters and nonvoters have dif- the system is corrupt, or they ferent preferences on economic don't think they know enough policies," said Jan Leighley, to vote. co-author with Jonathan Nagler Rodriguez, a 38-year-old sinof the book Who Votes Now? gle, working mom, is always on Demographics, Issues, Inequal- the go. It's why, she says, she ity, and Turnout in the United doesn't vote. States. "I don't even know who's runHer research found that non- ning,'" she said, laughing with a voters are more likely, for ex- bit of embarrassment. "I should ample, to support a redistribu- look into it, but, honestly, I tion of wealth, housing bailouts haven't given it more than a and expanded social safety net thought." programs. "I do what I do to make my Hundreds of thousands of life better," said Rodriguez. "I nonvoters want to vote, but don't depend on (politicians) to can't. change things for me." In 2016, 4 percent of regBut analysts say low Latino istered voters did not vote turnout in Texas isn't occurbecause of "registration prob- ring in a vacuum. Texas has lems," according to a Pew long been home to one of the Research Center analysis of worst voter turnout rates in the Census Bureau data. Many country; 51.6 percent of Texans would-be voters face a range voted in 2016. of barriers: voter ID laws, regNational averages have 20% istration difficulty or criminal of white 'frequent voters', while records. An estimated 10 percent of adults in Florida, for 13% of blacks, 11% of Asians, example, can't vote because of and only 9% of Hispanics vote often . - NPR a felony conviction.

The $992.6 million November 6, 2018 bond referendum includes:

Fort Bend ISD invites parents, guardians and students to attend one of the 12 community meetings to learn more about the Fort Bend ISD November 6, 2018 Bond Referendum.

Tuesday, September 18 6 to 8 p.m. Hightower High School Auditorium 3333 Hurricane Lane Missouri City 77459

You have to go back to the turn of the 20th century to find a midterm election when a solid majority of people voted (of course, back then, the right to vote was far more limited, so the eligible voting pool was smaller, more male and more white).

Some research also indicates they're more likely to align with the Democratic Party.

Wednesday, September 19 Fort Settlement Middle School Commons 6 to 8 p.m. 5440 Elkins Rd. Sugar Land 77479

Thursday, October 4 6 to 8 p.m. Hodges Bend Middle School Commons 16510 Bissonnet Houston 77083

Wednesday, September 26 6 to 8 p.m. Ridge Point High School Auditorium 500 Waters Lake Blvd. Missouri City 77459 Wednesday, September 26 6 to 8 p.m. Clements High School Auditorium 4200 Elkins Drive Sugar Land 77479

Tuesday, October 9 Last day to register to vote Wednesday, October 10 6 to 8 p.m. Dulles High School Cafeteria 550 Dulles Ave. Sugar Land 77478 Wednesday, October 10 6 to 8 p.m. Travis High School Auditorium 11111 Harlem Rd. Richmond 77406

Tuesday, October 16 6 to 8 p.m. James Bowie Middle School Commons 700 Plantation Drive Richmond 77406 Tuesday, October 16 6 to 8 p.m. Willowridge High School Auditorium 16301 Chimney Rock Houston 77053 Wednesday, October 17 6 to 8 p.m. Elkins High School Auditorium 7007 Knights Court Missouri City 77459

Early Voting: October 22 – November 2 | Election Day: November 6 For more information about the 2018 Bond, go to www.fortbendisd.com/bond. #Bond2018

#InspireEquipImagine

ASIA / South ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 8

Sri Lanka arrests 90 on Reunion-bound trawler

SLAMABAD, Pakistan | AFP | Tuesday 9/11/2018 - Kulsoom Nawaz, the wife of former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif, died of cancer in London on Tuesday as her husband remains locked up in jail in his home country following his fall from power.

Commander Dinesh Bandara said the fishing boat was seized off Sri Lanka's west coast and was being escorted to Colombo with 89 men and a woman on board.

Sri Lankans are known to pay thousands of dollars to people smugglers to arrange highly risky boat rides to Europe, Australia or New Zealand in search of better economic prospects. (Photo: AFP/ Lakruwan Wanniarachchi) clined since Australia in 2013 closed its borders to illegal boat people with a military operation and zero tolerance policy. Canberra's hardline immigration policy sees asylum-seekers who try to reach Australia by boat processed in offshore compounds on Nauru and

Papua New Guinea, with over 30 boats turned back since it began. In May, a group of 131 Sri Lankans were stopped by Malaysian authorities as they tried to head towards New Zealand by boat. All were returned to Sri Lanka to face prosecution for illegally leaving the island.

Hanoi urges residents to stop eating dog meat

ANOI, Vietnam | AFP | Tuesday 9/11/2018 Hanoi officials urged residents on Tuesday to ease off eating dog meat, saying the popular dish is tarnishing the city's image and risks spreading rabies. Roasted, boiled or steamed, dog meat can be found in markets and food shops across the capital city famed for its tasty street food, and the meat is traditionally eaten with rice wine or beer. But Hanoi People's Committee on Tuesday warned residents to lay off canine meat to prevent the spread of rabies and other animal-borne diseases. It also urged them to stop eating cat meat, often dubbed "little tiger" on Vietnamese menus, which is less popular than dog but still readily available in rural areas. The practice of killing the animals is often cruel and the

Pakistan mourns death of Kulsoom Nawaz, wife of jailed ex-PM Sharif by Khurram Shahzad

OLOMBO, Sri Lanka | AFP | Tuesday 9/11 - Sri Lanka's navy Tuesday detained 90 people illegally travelling in a trawler bound for the French territory of Reunion Island in the Indian Ocean, a spokesman said.

"Preliminary investigations suggest that the boat was heading to Reunion Island," Bandara told AFP. "From there, they may have planned to move to another destination."

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Nawaz, 68, who was first lady of Pakistan three times, was diagnosed with lymphoma in August last year and had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in London for months. "Yes, the death of Begum Kulsoom Nawaz is confirmed," Maryam Aurangzeb, a spokesperson of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Sharif's party, told AFP. Pakistani media reported that she had been put on life support and a ventilator earlier in the day. Sharif was ousted from the premiership a month before his wife's diagnosis. He and the couple's daughter Maryam Nawaz had left her in London and returned to Pakistan on July 13 this year in a bid to motivate support for the PML-N days before a general election.

Kulsoom Nawaz, former first lady and wife of jailed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has passed away. She was battling cancer for the last several months and had reportedly been in coma, as well. nified. - 'Devastating' For years Nawaz stayed out of politics, focusing on the couple's family and home life. The couple have four children. But after Sharif was first imprisoned following a military coup in 1999 Nawaz stepped into the limelight, Farouq said. "She told her father-in-law, 'Dad, I have to go out,' and he replied, 'Daughter, you must

"She fought against cancer with a lot of courage," Farouq added. The newly-elected Khan, a former cricket hero who had campaigned against the Sharifs for his entire 22-year-long political career, sent his condolences Tuesday. "The Pakistan High Commission in the UK has been directed to provide all possible assistance to facilitate the heirs of Mrs. Kulsoom Nawaz," his

They were immediately jailed for corruption, with the party losing the July 25 vote to Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.

File photo city government hopes it can be gradually phased out, it said in a statement. It said it was a matter of preserving Hanoi's reputation as a "civilised and modern capital" among foreigners, many of whom consider eating the meat of animals commonly kept as pets taboo. "The trading, killing and use of dog and cat meat has brought on a negative reaction from tourists and expatriates living in Hanoi," the statement said. There are about 493,000 dogs and cats in the city, the vast majority of which are kept as domesticated pets, and

about 1,000 shops open for selling the animal meat. Three people have died from rabies in Hanoi since the beginning of this year, and two others were confirmed infected with the disease, according to official figures. Vietnam's capital city is renowned globally for its street food, and its culinary staples such as pho noodle soup and pate banh mi sandwiches have reached menus around the world from Paris to Pittsburgh. Hanoi city is also a playground for more adventurous diners who can sample fried frog meat, fertilised duck embryo or hotpot turtle meat.

Sharif had been banned from running, but maintained his control over his eponymous party, and his return was seen as a failed gamble to save his political legacy. Conspiracy theories claiming that Nawaz was actually healthy, and that the Sharifs were faking her illness to gain sympathy, swirled in the final weeks of the acrimonious campaign. Nawaz had been at her husband's side throughout his decades-long political career, which saw him become prime minister of Pakistan three times while facing military coups, prison and exile. "She was a brave lady," Siddiq-ul-Farouq, a stalwart party loyalist, told AFP, describing her as well-educated and dig-

She had been diagnosed in London and her treatment had been happening ever since. She had reportedly gone through multiple surgeries and at least five chemotherapy sessions. (Photo: Tribune) go,'" he recounted.

office said in a statement.

Nawaz took over leadership of the party, defying house arrest to attend street rallies standing up to military dictator General Pervez Musharraf and demanding her husband's release. Sharif was eventually allowed to go into exile in Saudi Arabia in 2007.

"Mrs. Kulsoom Nawaz was a brave woman," Khan was quoted as saying in the statement.

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The US Embassy in Islamabad as well as the leaders of other political parties also sent condolences, as Pakistani social media was quickly flooded with messages.

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FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

WORLD

VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

US decision to shut PLO office 'denies Palestinians as people'

First-known David Bowie studio recording sells for over $50k

Analysts warn Trump's decision to close the Palestinian mission in DC further jeopardises any peace process

Tape dates from 1963 when the star was a 16-year-old singer with his band the Konrads

ERUSALEM - The Trump administration's decision to shut down the Palestine Liberation Organization's (PLO) office in Washington, DC, is "denying the Palestinians as people" and further jeopardising the peace process, analysts warn. White House National Security Advisor John Bolton announced the administration's decision in a speech on Monday, saying the PLO had "not taken steps to advance the start of direct and meaningful negotiations with Israel". He said the PLO leadership had instead "condemned a yetto-be-seen US peace plan and "refused to engage with the US government with respect to peace efforts and otherwise". The administration has also threatened the International Criminal Court with sanctions if judges open an investigation into the US or Israel. Palestinian officials have described the decision as a "declaration of war on efforts to bring peace ... to the region". PLO Secretary-General Saeb Erekat said the decision was "yet another affirmation of the Trump administration's policy to collectively punish the Palestinian people". 'Abbas pushed beyond his limits' The move is being seen by analysts as another blow to the Palestinians in a chain of events that have favoured the Israeli government at the expense of Palestinians, adding to the potential of unrest and violence. The administration of US President Donald Trump recently said it was cutting more than $200m in economic aid to the Palestinians. It also recognised Jerusalem as the capital of Israel last year and moved the embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem this year.

The first-known recording by David Bowie, made when he was the 16-year-old singer of a band called the Konrads, has sold at auction in Britain for nearly £40,000.

A protester holds a poster of President Donald Trump that reads: 'We are returning in spite of you, Trump' (Photo Adel Hana/AP Photo) Over the past year, Jared Kushner, senior White House adviser and Trump's son-inlaw, has questioned Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas' commitment to peace. "The [Trump administration] has changed the parameters of how the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been dealt with in recent years," said Ian Black, a visiting senior fellow at the Middle East Centre, London School of Economics. While the decision carries a multitude of implications for a peace process, Black said the most significant of those has been the weakening of any kind of mechanism to produce a settlement to the conflict or a two-state solution. "It is worth pointing out that the Palestinian leader, Mahmoud Abbas, is more likely than any other to come to some kind of two-state solution with Israel," he said. "But he has been pushed to react furiously to American moves. [There will] no longer be a fair mediator in the conflict. Abbas has been pushed beyond limits on this." While a long-term effect of the decision would be tingeing the international commitment to a two-state solution,

Music specialists Omega Auctions in north-west England said “a bidding frenzy” around its memorabilia sale led to the demo tape fetching around four times the expected price of £10,000 when it went under the hammer on Tuesday. It sold for £39,360, Omega said.

he said a risk of instability and violence was possible in the short-term.

The tape was discovered earlier this year in a loft, Omega had previously revealed.

"Everyone remembers the split screen of the beautifully orchestrated ceremony at the embassy opening and the 60 people shot dead in Gaza," he said.

The song – I Never Dreamed – was recorded in a studio in 1963 when the Konrads asked Bowie, then known by his given name, David Jones, to sing lead vocals.

Author Khaled Diab, who has spent the last decade in frequent visits to the Palestinian territories, said the idea of a two-state solution has long diminished in the minds of many.

Promotional sketches by the then largely unknown Bowie,

For the first time, he said, Palestinians are now running in municipal elections after previous boycotts and more are applying for Israeli citizenship. "Even if there is a two-state solution, it would collapse very quickly," Diab said. Although the latest move has angered many Palestinians in the West, those in the occupied Palestinian territories are less likely to react, he said. The cutting of aid, however, was one that could have a knock-on effect leading to unrest. Although the decision could be an attempt to pressure the Palestinian leadership to accept the yet-to-be-released peace deal, experts have said it was a "foolish" idea. - Al Jazeera

Omega Auctions expected the tape to go for about £10,000 ($13,000). (Photo: Omega Auctions/PA) along with photographs and band documents, also sold for £17,130, while an early the Konrads poster from 1963 went for £6,600, Omega said. Bowie left the Konrads shortly afterwards and did not achieve stardom until six years later when, already a solo artist, he released Space Oddity about fictional astronaut Major Tom. Bowie earned a reputation as one of the most innovative voices in rock over a half-cen-

tury career in which he experimented with soul, disco, jazz and ambient music. He died in 2016 from an undisclosed battle with cancer, two days after releasing his final album on his 69th birthday. Other items auctioned on Tuesday included a fully signed album of rock band Led Zeppelin, which sold for £14,000, and handwritten lyrics by Jimi Hendrix from around 1970, which fetched £10,800. -The Guardian UK

Starvation: a weapon of war that could kill 590,000 children by the end of 2018

tarvation being used as a weapon of war has become the new normal, according to Save the Children. Its analysis shows more than half a million infants in conflict zones could die of malnutrition by the end of the year if they do not receive treatment, the equivalent of one every minute. The charity makes its own estimates using UN data, and projects that 4.5 million underfives will need treatment for life-threatening hunger this year in the most dangerous conflict zones – an increase of 20% since 2016. At current rates, only one in three will receive treatment, and 590,000 could

die as a result. The data emerged ahead of Tuesday’s launch of the UN annual report on food security, which last year warned that global hunger was rising for the first time since the turn of the century, fuelled by conflict and climate change. “The broad story is we’ve seen a drastic increase in the number of children at risk of death as a result of hunger related problems” said Kevin Watkins, the CEO of Save the Children. “Using starvation as a weapon of war has become the new normal, with devastating consequences for children.”

There were chronic shortfalls in donor funding in conflict zones. The charity described as “striking” the example of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which it estimated had the highest number of infants with life-threatening malnutrition while facing an 8.6% funding shortfall for nutrition. It estimated 1.9 million infants in the DRC would suffer severe acute malnutrition (SAM) – the most dangerous form of undernutrition – by the end of 2018. With 1.6 million likely to remain untreated, more than 300,000 children could die, it said. -The Guardian UK

VOICE OF ASIA 11

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Indian American Nurses Nightingale Award Night The Beginning of Indian Nurses Immigrating in the US Until 1965, immigrants who came to the US were from European countries. In 1965, the president relaxed the immigration rule and allowed for the first time, people from non-European countries. Along with the relaxation of immigration laws they introduced health care, Health Insurance and Medicare. At that time, there were not enough registered nurses or technicians available in the US. This scarcity of professional nurses opened the way for our nurses to come as immigrants in large numbers. Indian Nurses were among the first wave of immigrants since President Johnson relaxed the immigration law and allowed Nurses from India to come to the US in thousands. Though they had an easy entry to US, they had to face many hardships and discrimination. They were mostly middle-aged women who traveled thousands of miles leaving their children, the family and husband back in India. The purpose of the Indian American Nurses Nightingale Award is to give them their due recognition and respect they deserve and to get their story published for the information of the next generation people to know that the rich life they enjoy now as the result of their sufferings. Koshy Thomas Publisher and CEO of Voice of Asia Group You can reach me at 832-419-7537 or email:koshyvoa@aol.com

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VOICE OF ASIA 13

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

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Cyber insurance market to double by 2020, says industry leader

Imran Khan leaving Snap to start his own investment firm

ARIS, France | AFP | Sunday 9/9/2018 - The market for insurance against cyber threats will double by 2020 to over 8 billion dollars, German reinsurance giant Munich Re told a conference in Monaco on Sunday.

n Monday, Snap made some waves when it announced that Imran Khan, its chief strategy officer, was stepping down from his role to pursue other opportunities. We have now confirmed with sources close to the matter that he’s leaving the company to start his own investment fund.

“Cyber risks are one of the biggest threats to the networked economy,” Munich Re board member Torsten Jeworrek said in a statement on the first day of an annual meeting of reinsurers in the Mediterranean principality. Munich Re estimated that companies could more than double their spending on cyber insurance from $3.4-$4 billion (3-3.4 billion euros) in 2017 to $8-$9 billion by 2020. While the digital economy had increased productivity, “increased networking of machines, and equipment in particular, can also give rise to very complex risks such as data theft, disruptions in the interaction between networked machines, and even

Cyber risks are one of the biggest threats to the networked economy (Photo: AFP/File photo) the failure of entire production lines and supply chains,” Munich Re said, estimating the number of connected devices worldwide will rise from 27 billion to 125 billion by 2030. “The economic costs of large-scale cyber attacks already exceeds losses caused by natural disasters. Where small and medium-sized enterprises are affected, such attacks can soon threaten their very existence,” Munich Re warned.

The most damaging attacks to date, in economic terms, have been caused by malware such as WannaCry and NotPetya, which infected hundreds of thousands of computers around the world in 2017. The malware encrypted data on hard drives, demanding that users pay ransoms to regain access to the system. “This trend will continue as more and more machines and devices are connected,” Munich Re warned.

California commits to 100% clean electricity by 2045 by Marlowe Hood

OS ANGELES | AFP | Monday 9/10/2018 California Governor Jerry Brown signed landmark legislation Monday committing his state to a 100 percent clean electricity grid by 2045. At least 20 countries and twice as many large cities have made similar pledges, but California -- the fifth largest economy in the world -- is by far the biggest jurisdiction to do so to date.

1990 levels. Later this week, Brown will host subnational governments, cities and businesses in San Francisco for the three-day Global Climate Action Summit. Among the co-chairs is China’s former chief climate nego-

“Have no illusions,” Brown said. “California and the rest of the world have miles to go before we achieve zero-carbon emissions.” - ‘Governor Moonbeam’ As the measure was unveiled, UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres warned of a “dark and

“So I hope it gets France and Germany to up their own ambition, because we all have to do more than we are currently doing.” The electric sector represents 16 percent of the state’s greenhouse gas emissions. More broadly, California has set ambitious goals to slash greenhouse gas emissions 40 percent by 2030, compared to

And given his crossover experience between the US and Asia — he was known for helping introduce US investors to soon-to-be-huge Chinese companies like Alibaba, Baidu and Sohu — you can expect interest to play on the global theme here, too. While Snap dukes it out with the likes of Facebook, Twitter and Google over domination in social apps, there are countless areas that are only just beginning to get disrupted by technology. The overriding thesis, from what I understand, behind Khan’s move to start a new firm is that there is something close to $1 trillion in value that is at play because of that disruption, and so he wants to be in the thick of making “opportunistic” investments that will take advantage of the changes and shifts taking place.

by Sherisse Phan

“It will not be easy. It will not be immediate. But it must be done.”

“California, as a very prosperous economy, is taking aggressive action on climate change,” Brown told AFP by phone when asked if the new measure will inspire others.

Khan, who had been an early investor in Alibaba when still at J.P. Morgan & Chase, wants to put together a firm that will span the range of funding opportunities in the tech sector, with a focus on startups and other companies that are disrupting non-tech areas. Targets will include both private and public businesses, as well as private equity, buyouts and long-term stakes.

Khan is known for helping introduce US investors to soon-to-behuge Chinese companies like Alibaba, Baidu and Sohu. (Photo: Getty Images) Khan plans to base the firm in Los Angeles, where he lives now: “Silicon Valley is too dominated by the VC bubble, and New York is dominated by the hedge fund bubble,” the source said. (And what about London? “Many trips to Europe, too.” I’m glad to know we’re still thought of by some as part of Europe…) Khan has long wanted to build his own investment firm, but the opportunity for operational experience at Snap (which was still going by Snapchat when he joined in 2014), a startup that was growing like a weed at that time and had just passed a $10 billion valuation, was too good to pass up. One source I’d talked to characterised Khan’s departure as something that was due to happen after Khan spent four years at Snap. His time there spanned a period huge evolution, going

from generating zero revenue to being on track to make about $1 billion this year, and from 100 employees to 3,000. But Khan was brought in at a time when the company was starting to try to figure out how best to grow in a way that would resonate with investors, and you could also say that this has now been done. Now that Snap has essentally established what is going to drive its business (ad tech) it needs to move on to the next phase of how it will execute that — and execute it. From what I understand, his departure is something that Snap CEO Evan Spiegel knew was on the cards for a while. Since Khan is not jumping to a new role elsewhere but starting his own thing, that is partly why he’s able to stay in place for a smooth transition. - TechCrunch

Jack Ma will step down from the top job at Alibaba next year

“This bill and the executive order put California on a path to meet the goals of Paris and beyond,” Brown said at a signing ceremony in state capital Sacramento.

On the international stage, California has emerged as a leader on climate action as US President Donald Trump has opted out of the landmark 2015 Paris climate treaty and moved aggressively to dismantle the policies of his predecessor, Barack Obama.

Photo: SolarPowerAuthority tiator, Xie Zhenhua, reflecting the strong ties that California has forged with the world’s largest carbon polluter -- at the national and provincial level -around climate action. “It’s impossible to overstate how significant it is for a state as large and influential as California to commit to 100 percent clean energy,” said Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune. “California is showing the world that a transition to 100 percent clean energy is within reach.” But Brown cautioned that reducing emissions enough to meet the Paris goal of capping global warming below two degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) remains a daunting task.

dangerous future” under threat by global warming. “If we do not change course by 2020, we risk missing the point where we can avoid runaway climate change,” he said in a speech at UN headquarters in New York. Scientists estimate that the global economy will have to become “carbon neutral” -removing any additional CO2 put into the atmosphere -- by mid-century or shortly thereafter to avoid catastrophic climate impacts, including deadly heatwaves and superstorms engorged by rising seas. Utility and oil companies resisted the legislation, arguing that it would lead to electricity price hikes for consumers and have negligible impact on cutting CO2 emissions.

ack Ma, a billionaire pioneer of China’s internet industry, will step down as Alibaba’s executive chairman next year to make way for the company’s next generation of leaders. “No company can rely solely on its founders,” Ma said in a letter Monday to customers, employees and shareholders. “Because of physical limits on one’s ability and energy, no one can shoulder the responsibilities of chairman and CEO forever.” A former English teacher, Ma started Alibaba nearly two decades ago in his apartment and built it into a $420 billion business. The e-commerce company said CEO Daniel Zhang will succeed Ma in 12 months’ time. With a net worth of around $40 billion, Ma is one of the richest people in China. He maintains a high profile, speaking at conferences around the globe and rubbing shoulders with world leaders. Ma, who will remain on the

company’s board of directors until 2020, said he has spent the last 10 years preparing for this succession plan, working to identify and develop the right talent inside Alibaba.

birthday, that he wants to return to education, adding that he is still young and has “lots of dreams to pursue.”

“Teachers always want their students to exceed them, so the responsible thing ... for me and the company to do is to let younger, more talented people take over in leadership roles,” he said.

Even after stepping away from Alibaba’s senior management and board, he is expected to continue to shape the company’s future through his lifetime membership of the Alibaba Partnership, a group of 36 people that can nominate a majority of the directors to the board.

Zhang, who is 46, joined Alibaba in 2007 and held a range of senior management roles before taking over as CEO in 2015.

“It doesn’t really matter what his title is, he’ll always have that founder street cred within the company and the market,” Clark said.

“Daniel is very low profile, he’s quiet. He’s mild mannered, he’s more Clark Kent, and Jack’s the Superman,” said Duncan Clark, the author of “Alibaba: The House That Jack Ma Built.”

The announcement of his departure comes at an uncertain time for Chinese tech companies. The stocks of Alibaba and other top firms have been hit by concerns about the health of China’s economy and Beijing’s increased scrutiny of the sector.

Ma gave up the CEO role in 2013 and in recent years has found time to work on other projects, including philanthropy and performing in a kung fu movie. He said on Monday, his 54th

The company has poured money into video streaming, online food delivery, dockless bike-sharing and ride-hailing start-ups in China and beyond. - CNNMoney (Hong Kong)

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FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

BOLLYWOOD - HOLLYWOOD Section 2

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Lady Gaga speaks about addiction issues in Hollywood

ady Gaga and Bradley Cooper bring their film, A Star Is Born, to the Toronto Film Festival.

- Govinda

Bradley, who both directed the film and starred in it, as well as Lady Gaga, who is receiving raves for her performance in the remake, were joined by their co-stars Anthony Ramos, Dave Chappelle, and Sam Elliott at the press conference held at the TIFF Bell Lightbox on Sunday morning (September 9) in Toronto, Canada.

Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper While at the press conference, Lady Gaga was asked is that we intervene early in life when about those who battle addiction in we see people struggling,” Lady Gaga Hollywood. If you don’t know, A Star said “I think fame is very unnatural. Is Born deals with addiction with the I think it’s important we guide artists main character and take care of them on a physical “I think what would be wonderful level as they rise.” (-JustJared.com)

Leslie Moonves to step down as CBS CEO amid misconduct claims

OS ANGELES, September 9, 2018 - The mogul, one of Hollywood’s most powerful executives, had been with the media conglomerate since 1995.

CBS officials declined to comment on the new accusations or Moonves’ status with the company. CBS has, in fact, been the mostwatched network for the past 10 years, and Moonves, 68, has been instrumental in the success of David Letterman, James Corden, Stephen Colbert and even Howard Stern. But multiple onthe-record claims of misconduct and harassment helped spur the decision for the network chief to step down from a role he has held for more than a decade. Moonves, in his July 27 statement addressing the initial Ronan Farrow story, had said, “I recognize that there were times decades ago when I may have made some women uncomfortable by making advances. Those were mistakes, and I regret them immensely. But I always understood and respected — and abided by the principle — that ‘no’ means ‘no.’” Another six women accused Moonves of sexual harassment, sexual assault and violence in a new piece by Farrow that was published by The New Yorker on Sunday morning. The executive has successfully

UMBAI - Bollywood actor Govinda, who is coming up with a new comedy film ‘Fryday’ said though he is not in a mood to watch a bio-pic on his life soon, his journey as an outsider who achieved success, would be inspirational for many budding artistes. During the trailer launch of ‘Fryday’, on Saturday, while asked about his interest in bio-pic on his life, Govinda told reporters “I do not think that making a bio-pic on my life at this point of my career is a good idea -- I am working on films. But I think starting from zero, in a film industry that does not give any newcomers a chance easily, to make it to the top is surely an interesting journey of my life; that is

inspirational.” He said, “While in poverty, people tend to get depressed it is wise to accept the situation and win over it (that I did). So that will be an interesting watch,” added the ‘Saajan Chale Sasural’ famed actor. The occasion was graced by the cast and crew of the film ‘Fryday’, including Varun Sharma, Vijendra Kale, director Abhishek Dogra among others. The story of the film revolves around two character played by Varun and Govinda. Praising his co-star, Govinda said, “Varun is too good in the film, he performed fantastically. I kept telling Va-

run that if he and I reduce a few kilos, we are superstars!” Remembering one of his early days, he said, “A film becomes hit with the equal participation of every actors and crew members. When I was doing ‘Shola Aur Shabnam’, I was so amazed to watch Anupam Kher-ji, that I couldn’t deliver dialogues properly. The same happened with Kader Khan saab. After ages, I met the actor Vijendra Kale who amazed me to that level with his performance. I am so glad to work with these talented people.” ‘Fryday’ is directed by Abhishek Dogra, featuring Govinda and Varun and is releasing on October 12. (-Times of India)

Mallika Dua: I’m not inferior to any Bollywood actor Comedienne Mallika Dua is thrilled to have fun-filled chats with several celebrities through her forthcoming show Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua try infamously famous for formulas, stereotypes and typecasting. “What I meant was that I don’t feel just because you are a certain height or a certain size, you have to play certain characters…Or the fact that thin girls have separate problems and fat girls have separate problems. I am more qualified and trained enough than any Bollywood actor. If you can act on a digital platform and be liked then you can be the same on any other platform. I’d love to do films and I don’t know whether the industry is there yet where they cast actors who don’t fit into mainstream image.

by Manpriya Singh

Embattled CBS CEO Leslie Moonves, who had run the company since 2003, is stepping down as the leader of the media conglomerate amid more sexual misconduct claims made in The New Yorker, according to CNN’s Brian Stelter and CNBC. The final details of a settlement are being worked out, which will likely be announced Monday.

My struggle story in Bollywood might inspire many

Photo: Getty Images brought a revamped Star Trek series to CBS All Access, a streaming service created under his watch, and he’s aiming to do the same with a new version of The Twilight Zone. Moonves is one of the most powerful and well-known executives in Hollywood. Last year, he received a compensation package from CBS of $69.33 million, and in 2016 was paid $69.6 million. Moonves began his entertainment career at Bucknell University, where he studied pre-med and Spanish and also acted in some plays before getting a few roles on TV shows like The Six Million Dollar Man and Cannon after graduating in 1971. After switching to the business end of entertainment, Moonves rose quickly at a variety of companies, including a stint as vp movies and miniseries at 20th Century Fox Television. Moonves joined Lorimar in 1985 and was named president within five years before jumping to Warner Bros. Television, where he was named CEO in 1993. (- Hollywood Reporter)

ven before comedienne Mallika Dua gets talking about her upcoming show Midnight Misadventures with Mallika Dua, soon to be aired on TLC, her team ensures there is no mention of her previous outing on the television. Not there is anything more left to be asked or answered in context of The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, her previous show or her row with Akshay Kumar that made headlines for all the wrong reasons. That’s a closed chapter for the actress. Right now, she is all set to go on some ‘midnight misadventures’ with the likes of Badshah, Rajkummar Rao, Vicky Kaushal, Radhika Apte, Tanmay Bhatt…a total of eleven guests in 10 episodes. Of a show centered around the idea of 2 am conversations and 2 am food and what you can eat at that hour with whatever is there in your fridge. “The show is set in the house of a girl called Shalishka, the character I am playing and she is super privileged and super delusional and has no idea about the world outside of her castle.”

Rajkummar Rao and Mallika Dua

That straight away takes us to the characters we immediately associate her with or the characters she instantly shot to fame with; Gifty, Make-up didi, Tinder aunty. Characters that are exaggerated version of stereotypes enough to bring in the hits and chuckles alike. In short, the characters of a loud Delhi girl.

Perhaps, any guest she specifically enjoyed doing an episode with? “I had a lot of fun shooting with Rajkummar Rao, he is extremely intelligent, brings so much fun to the sets, he is such a dedicated actor, even on a set like this (which is not a film set) he brought his hundred per cent.”

“That’s not what I’ve played so far I played multiple characters and that is just one of them.”

Off all the people hosted on the show and several dishes made out of limited resources of a refrigerator, she picks on the Rajma Lasagna made with Badshah. “Celebrities are supposed to bring a bag full of ingredients from their refrigerators.”

That’s why he is Rajkummar Rao It takes a little more probing to get her beyond the generic, “I had fun shooting all episodes.”

Raiding celebrities’ fridge

On Bollywood & body image It wasn’t a long ago when she gave out a statement saying how she wants to do mainstream Bollywood roles. Knowing pretty well, that it’s an indus-

I get a lot of calls for side roles, but I don’t believe that I am inferior to any Bollywood actor.” While that’s very well put, we wonder what the industry has to say to that. (- India Tribune)

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LEGAL

VOICE OF ASIA 15

Section 2

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FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

YOUR IMMIGRATION LAWYER

Family Law and Personal Injury PERSONAL INJURY - THE BASICS OF PREMISE LIABILITY CASES IN TEXAS either classified as an invitee, licensee, or trespasser.

Mala Sharma If you were hurt on someone else’s property because of that property owner’s negligence, carelessness, or recklessness, then you are entitled to recover all your damages including medical expenses, physical pain, mental anguish, and lost wages! There are different types of premise liability claims including, but not limited to, slip and falls, dog bites, burns, etc. In all such cases, negligence by the property owner or others who occupy or exercise control over the premises must be proven in order to recover and be compensated. The prevailing rule under Texas law is, an owner or occupier of land has a duty to keep the premises in a safe condition. To recover under this theory, the claimant must establish (1) a legal duty owed to him/her, (2) breach of that duty, and (3) resulting damages. The damages must be caused by a dangerous condition on the property. Further, the duty owed by the premise owner or person in control of the property varies depending on whether the claimant is

The highest degree of care is to an invitee or someone who enters the premises which benefit both owner and invitee such as a going to a grocery store or other similar venue. The duty owed by the premise owner in this situation is the duty to reduce or eliminate an unreasonable risk of harm on property and to use reasonable care in known dangers or conditions that should be discoverable. Next, the duty owed to a licensee, someone who enters with the owner’s consent for their own benefit, is the duty is to refrain from harming the licensee willfully, wantonly, or by gross negligence. Any harm known of must be warn of or made safe. The third and lowest degree of care owed by the premise owner or occupier is the duty owed to a trespasser, one who enters without authority. In this case, the duty owed is to not cause harm willfully, wantonly, or by gross negligence. The standard of negligence for premise liability applies to slip and fall cases such as when a person falls down from a puddle of water that had no warning sign or not cleaned up timely. These cases are very difficult to deal with, entail bruises, soreness, embarrassment, hospital visits, follow up treatments, and even worse, you could break your bones or ruin your spine!

This also applies for dog bite cases where the owner did not contain their aggressive animal and as a result you were injured physically or emotionally. Proving someone was responsible for your fall or dog bite is not easy and requires a confident lawyer by your side. Do not hesitate to seek legal help as soon as possible to recover all your damages! About Mala Sharma Mala Sharma has been practicing family law and personal injury with her family at the Law Offices of Sharma & Associates, founded in 1997. Mala is President Emeritus of the Houston Northwest Bar Association, Board member of the Houston Trial Lawyers Association and South Asian Bar Association. She is also a member of the Houston Bar Association. Disclaimer: This material is available for informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. If you require advice on any particular legal question, you may contact Sharma & Associates at 281-893-8644 or by email at mala@sharmalaws.net to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

Read previous articles on LEGAL issues by our columnist Visit us online : www. voiceofasiaonline.com To contribute articles, email voiceasia@aol.com

Tel: 713-774-5140

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

Sharlene Sharmila Richards

Q: What is the most recent update on DACA? A: In the case of Texas v U.S., Texas filed a multi-state lawsuit against the federal government seeking a preliminary injunction against DACA and to end DACA. On August 31st, 2018, the federal judge denied Texas’ request for a preliminary injunction, thus paving the way for DACA to continue and for DACA recipients to continue applying for renewals under DACA. Q: What happens next after this decision in Texas v U.S? A: Texas and the other plaintiffs in the action will most likely take out an appeal to the US Court of Appeals which will review the judge’s decision to deny the preliminary injunction. Q: What should I do if I currently have DACA but it is expiring? A: I recommend that if you have DACA that will be expiring in one year or less to go ahead and file for the DACA renewal now. Renewals are done by filing Form I-821D, Form I-765 and Form I-765 Worksheet with the filing fee. Q: What is the current filing fee for DACA? A: The fee is $495.00. Q: I have never had DACA. Can I file for DACA right now as I believe I meet all the requirements for DACA eligibility? A: USCIS will not accepts DACA applications from individuals who have not previously been granted DACA. The court decision clearly states that applications from indi-

ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ON UPDATES FOR DEFERRED ACTION FOR CHILDHOOD ARRIVALS (DACA) viduals who have never applied for DACA will not be accepted for processing. Q: My DACA expired before September 5th, 2016. Can I apply for DACA renewal now? A: Under the policies in effect before DACA was rescinded, those whose DACA had expired more than a year prior to reapplying have to submit initial DACA request applications rather than renewal applications. When you apply for the initial DACA request, do not forget to indicate the date your prior DACA had expired on Part 1 of the Form I-821D. Q: My sister’s DACA status was terminated when she was placed in removal proceedings. She wants to renew her DACA. Can she do so? A: If your sister’s previous DACA was terminated, she cannot request for a renewal but may file a new initial DACA request. She will need to indicate the date her prior DACA was terminated on part 1 of Form I-821D. Q: What is the appropriate timeframe to submit the renewal for DACA applications? A: USCIS encourages applicants to apply at least 150 to 120 days in advance of the expiration of their prior DACA status. Q: In the past before all these lawsuits challenging the legality of DACA, DACA recipients could apply for advance parole enable them to depart the United States for humanitarian, employment or educational purposes and return to the US. Is this still the case now?

A: Presently, USCIS is not accepting or approving advance parole requests under DACA. This is in accordance with the court decision which stated that advance parole requests under DACA do not have to be processed for the time being. Q: Do I still need to show economic necessity for employment to be issued DACA based employment authorization? A: Yes, you still need to demonstrate you have economic necessity for the grant of employment authorization under DACA. Just make sure you list all your outgoings in the I-765Worksheet. Disclaimer: Any advice provided in this article is general in nature and not intended to constitute legal advice for any specific case. Please consult with an immigration lawyer about the specific circumstances of your case. My Bio Sharlene Sharmila Richards is a licensed Immigration lawyer practicing in Houston, Texas. She is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. She was admitted to the New York State Bar in 2000 and is a member of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals and a member of the US Supreme Court. You may contact her at telephone number 713623-8088 or by email at srichardslaw@aol. com to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case.

VOICE OF ASIA 16

Young Life

Feeling suicidal, students turned to their college. They were told to go home. by Anemona Hartocollis

“No, I can’t go home,” Mr. Fowler, 19, recalled saying. “This is partly y’all’s fault for putting me on medication. I reached out for help and now I’m suddenly getting blamed for it.” Mr. Fowler ended up having to take a year off. He is now part of a class-action lawsuit accusing the university of discriminating against students with mental health issues by coercing them into taking leaves of absence, rather than trying to meet their needs on campus. Stanford says it has behaved properly. But the case lays bare the conundrum universities face — amid a national epidemic of students dealing with depression, anxiety and suicidal thoughts — in responding to a broad array of mental health issues on campus. Some accuse colleges of being too detached, waiting too long to notify parents when students are in trouble, if they notify them at all. Others say schools are too quick to cast off students to avoid lawsuits and bad publicity. “Only half of college students experiencing a mental health crisis seek help, largely due to the justified fear of stigma and negative consequences,” the court papers say. “Too often, universities respond to disability-related behavior with exclusion, blame and draconian measures such as a forced leave of absence.” The suit is the latest in a series of challenges to mental health leave policies, at schools like Princeton, Hunter College, Western Michigan University, George Washington University, Marist and Quinnipiac. Stanford’s website says that a leave may be encouraged or required for a student whose psychiatric, psychological or medical condition “jeopardizes the life or safety of self or others, or whose actions significantly disrupt the activities of the university community.” The cases described in the court papers include a student who had an anxiety attack, one who was harming herself, and others who had thoughts of suicide or tried to kill themselves. Legal experts say that under federal regulations, it is clear that students can be barred from campus if they pose a threat to others, but less clear if they pose a threat only to themselves. “The law is unsettled,” said Karen Bower, a lawyer who has represented students suing universities for making them take mental health leaves. “‘Disruption’ is the new buzzword. Universities have claimed that students who use too many resources, inform friends of suicidal ideation or require wellness checks have all disrupted the campus or campus operations.” The Stanford lawsuit says that students who were placed on leave were effectively banished from the university and stripped of their privacy and autonomy. Their own doctors were second-guessed by the university’s, the suit says, and the students were required to immediately withdraw from all classes, programs and housing. To return to campus, they had to write personal statements “accepting blame” for their behavior. The consequences of taking a leave for a student in crisis

Should more be done to screen young athletes for heart problems? by Taft Coghill Jr.

hen Harrison Fowler heard about the counseling center at Stanford, where he enrolled as a freshman last fall, he decided to finally do something about the angst he had been struggling with for a long time. The results were not what he had expected. Asked if he had ever considered suicide, he said yes. The center advised him to check himself into the hospital. From there, he was sent to a private outpatient treatment center, where he was prescribed an antidepressant that he said triggered horrible suicidal fantasies. It wasn’t long before he was back in the hospital, being urged to go home to Texas.

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

REDERICKSBURG — As the medical reports of North Stafford High football prospects roll in each summer, Wolverines head coach Joe Mangano inevitably sees two or three red flags that warrant further evaluation beyond a routine physical. Mangano was well-prepared for doctors to dig deeper into Ambrose Asiedu, a 6-foot-2, 230-pound freshman earlier this summer. Harrison Fowler is part of a class-action lawsuit against Stanford. (Photo: Michael Starghill Jr) can be dire. Students may lose touch with the friends they rely on, and find themselves isolated and ashamed. Some who were made to take leaves have tried to kill themselves at home. At the very least, they will graduate months or even years late. But staying on campus, where social and academic pressures can be grueling, has its own risks for students in distress. Stanford says that a leave may be encouraged or required for a student whose condition “jeopardizes the life or safety of self or others, or whose actions significantly disrupt the activities of the university community.”CreditPreston Gannaway for The New York Times In a statement, Stanford said that it “cares deeply” about its students, and that “in extraordinary circumstances, it may be in the best interest of the student and the community that he or she leave campus for a time.” It said it could not comment on the individual cases without breaching confidentiality. But it denied that it forced students to take leaves. Dr. Victor Schwartz, a psychiatrist and chief medical officer of the Jed Foundation, a suicide prevention group, said the leaves can serve a good purpose. “It may be paternalistic, but it’s actually for the student’s own good, to get them out of the jam that’s occurred that’s leading to their inability to function,” he said. A stress fracture ended Rebecca Minsley’s dream of becoming a ballet dancer, and she was depressed when she arrived at Bates College in 2014, she said. She swallowed a handful of pills but quickly sought help at the campus health center, which wanted her to leave, she said. Her mother and a dean successfully fought for her to stay, arguing that she would just become more depressed at home. By her second semester, she stopped getting out of bed and going to class. When she was asked once again to take a leave, she agreed. Back in her mother’s New York City apartment, she spent months in bed, feeling like a failure. Eventually, with the right medication, she was able to hold down a job and move into her own apartment. Ms. Minsley, 23, returned to Bates last fall, after more than two years away, and has been receiving support from Fountain House College Re-Entry, a program that has sprung up to fill the niche of helping students on mental health leave. “It was terrifying and really, really difficult, but I really needed it,” she said of her leave. “I think I’m leading a much happier life.” A spokeswoman for Bates, Marjorie Hall, said the college gave every case “individualized consideration.” Lark Trumbly, a former student at Stanford, is more ambivalent about being sent home. Her freshman year, she passed out on the bathroom floor of her dormitory from a mix of pills and alcohol. A dean visited her at the hospital and told her that “students in my situation tend not to succeed at Stanford,” Ms. Trumbly, 23, said. Her freshman housing was revoked, and she was told that if she was not living on campus she could not take classes, so

she would have to take a leave, she said. Going home to Sacramento was a disaster. Feeling isolated and bored, she tried to kill herself again. Stanford did not know about that attempt, and she was allowed to return. But after a sexual assault, she began cutting herself, she said, and was sent home again. The second leave was better. Ms. Trumbly found a job teaching science in an afterschool program. She became a mental health activist, and graduated from Stanford last year, one year late, with a degree in psychology. Now she teaches at a private school. “So far, so good,” she said.

Ambrose is the younger brother of Nana Asiedu, a 6-foot-5, 270-pound former North Stafford offensive tackle. Nana Asiedu was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in June after an MRI at Penn State, where he signed a national letter of intent to play college football. His college career was over before it started. Ambrose was viewed as high-risk for HCM — the leading cause of death in young athletes — but after an MRI, he was cleared to play. While Ambrose begins his career and his brother’s playing journey comes to an end, their mother, Mercy Sawyerr, has pondered if the routine physical required by the Virginia High School League is enough to catch potentially catastrophic heart issues.

Her friends and her parents were supportive, and looking back, she thinks she could have stayed in school if Stanford had been more flexible. “I just wish I could have done it on my own terms,” she said.

“Kids are playing sports, not showing any symptoms and they’re just going, going, going,” Sawyerr said. “Only God knows what would’ve happened if they hadn’t found that in time with Nana.”

It is clearly worth setting back someone’s academic career by a year or two if that will keep them alive, advocates say. But they argue that universities, fearing lawsuits, too often have a blanket policy of making students with mental health issues take a leave, when federal disability law requires them to decide each case individually.

Former Orange County High School standout Darius Minor died on the practice field at Maine University on July 25. Minor’s death was the result of acute aortic dissection with cardiac tamponade, with hypertensive cardiovascular disease as a contributing factor, according to Mark Belserene of the Maine medical examiner’s office.

“It’s a horrible practice because it discourages students from getting the help they need,” said Ms. Bower, the lawyer.

Orange head coach Jesse Lohr said Minor showed no signs of heart issues while starring for the Hornets from 201418, and none of his physicals showed cause for concern.

Lark Trumbly, a former student at Stanford, took two leaves of absence. “I just wish I could have done it on my own terms,” she said.CreditJason Henry for The New York Times Advocates note that it would be impractical to kick out everyone who has a suicidal thought. “At any given moment in a college classroom, there will be between 5 and 10 percent of students who’ve had a suicidal thought in the previous, let’s say, two to three weeks,” said Dr. Christine Moutier, chief medical officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Stanford denied claims in the lawsuit that it had a blanket policy of barring students who have been hospitalized from returning to campus. The question of how responsible universities are for the well-being of their students has become more urgent, as schools face a rising number of students with mental health issues. Many college administrators say that medication and therapy have allowed more students with these issues to enter college in recent years. He is going back to Stanford in the fall, but he is still angry. When he learned that a legal center called Disability Rights Advocates was suing Stanford over its leave policy, he asked to join. He signed on, he said, because “I don’t want people to be scared to reach out for help.” If you are having thoughts of suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800273-8255 (TALK) or go to SpeakingOfSuicide.com/ resources for a list of additional resources. (-NYT)

“He played all kinds of different activities here and he never showed any signs of anything like this,” Lohr said. “He played soccer, and that requires as much endurance as any sport. He was a sprinter on the winter track team. He played some basketball. He played football for four years … We never saw anything like this.” ‘You’ve got to be vigilant’ The standard VHSL physical checks an athlete’s blood pressure, vision, heart and lungs. It also makes sure there are no major muscle or joint problems, and for men, there’s a hernia exam. Physicians ask athletes if they experience chest pain, shortness of breath or dizziness. They also inquire if the player has any history of passing out or if anyone in their family has died unexpectedly. “Those are the basic things,” said Dr. Rick Lewis, a cardiologist at Mary Washington Hospital. “This population is pretty healthy. They’re young, and if

Mercy Sawyerr and her son Ambrose Asiedu sit outside their home in Stafford, Va. on Sept. 8, 2018. Adiedu’s older brother Nana was all set to join the Penn State football program but was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a condition that is the leading cause of death among athletes. The younger Asiedu was tested and cleared to play. (Photo: Mike Morones) they’re going out for sports, they’re pretty active. You usually don’t expect too many problems. It’s like looking for a needle in a haystack. You’ve got to be vigilant, but know that most of the kids are going to be fine and healthy.” Lewis said that when doctors examine the heart during a physical, they listen for murmurs. He said that, in a quiet room with a skilled physician, HCM can be picked up with a stethoscope. However, he added there are variants of HCM in which the heart muscle that causes the problem doesn’t interfere with blood flow and the murmur goes undetected. That would have to be picked up by an EKG. Lewis said requiring EKGs for high school athletes isn’t cost-effective. “The problem with EKGs is they can be normal because the kid may have an athlete’s heart which is a benign condition,” Lewis said. “That would set up a whole cascade of testing. You’re talking about doing EKGs on lots of people that don’t need it and echocardiograms on lots of people that don’t need it.” Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy affects about 1 in 500 adults, according to the Journal of Family Practice. Some people never exhibit any symptoms or suffer any ill effects. Nana Asiedu was red-flagged for heart murmurs after his sophomore year physical, but was cleared and allowed to play football and basketball the next three years. He missed the 2017 football season opener because of dehydration. But Mangano said

the Wolverines feel “fortunate” that was the extent of his issues at North Stafford. VHSL spokesman Mike McCall said the office is aware of what happened to Asiedu and Minor, but officials have not thought about requiring more than the routine physical for athletes. The American Heart Association doesn’t recommend EKGs for sports physicals, but European guidelines do. “The standard physical will remain,” McCall said. “As far as those other types of tests that detect those heart ailments, it’s going to be on families to make those decisions.” Costs of additional screening Mangano believes the logistics of requiring more than the routine physical for athletes may be too complicated. He noted that participation for boys and girls across numerous sports begins in sixth grade. Mangano said cost is a concern, too. A sports physical typically costs between $15$25. If athletes were forced to add additional screenings, such as an EKG, the expense would spike. “It’s hard enough for a lot of these kids to get a regular physical now,” Mangano said. “Does this mean paying hundreds of dollars for a physical that’s more in-depth? I’d hate to say there’s money and logistics involved in kids’ lives, but there are a lot of moving parts here.” “When we did the MRI, they said, ‘It’s showing nothing. Everything is clear,’” Sawyerr said. “I said, ‘That’s what God can do.’ They cleared Ambrose for any sport he wants to play. I thank God for that.” (-The Daily Progess)

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Section 2

How does exercise keep your brain young? by Kelly Servick

tay active; age gracefully. Behind this truism, there’s a pile of unanswered scientific questions. Researchers are still sorting out what it is about physical activity that seems to lower the risk of dementia later in life. Even more uncertain is whether the effects of exercise can alter the course of diseases that cause dementia—chief among them, Alzheimer’s disease—once they’ve already taken root. A study published today in Science offers some new clues. In mice that mimic a severe, genetic form of Alzheimer’s disease, a combination of treatments that prompt the growth of new brain cells and protect them from damage can mimic the beneficial effects of exercise in preventing memory decline. So could we someday bottle the effects of exercise to treat Alzheimer’s? And if so, what exactly would we need to bottle? Here’s a rundown of what we know, and what’s still controversial. What’s the link between exercise and brain aging? Many large studies suggest staying active and fit throughout life lowers the risk of memory problems later on. For example, a recent project tracked more than 1000 Swedish women over 4 decades and found that for those judged to have “high” cardiovascular fitness on entering the study—as measured by the maximum workload they could handle on a stationary cycle machine before exhaustion— the onset of dementia was delayed, on average, by 9.5 years compared to those with “medium” fitness. But such studies can’t rule out all other confounding factors that might influence dementia risk—from genes to other aspects of a healthy lifestyle common in regular exercisers. And they don’t explain what exercise actually does to the brain. Does exercise fight the effects of Alzheimer’s disease once someone has it? Evidence for this is stronger in rodents than in humans. In one mouse model of Alzheimer’s, access to an “enriched” environment that included a running wheel reduced deposits of sticky brain plaques, made of the protein fragment β-amyloid, thought to drive progression of the disease. And the study published today on a different Alzheimer’s model found that diseased mice with access to a running wheel outperformed sedentary diseased mice on a series of memory tests—for example, a maze where mice had to learn and remember which areas contained a sunflow-

A team of researchers at Northwestern University said Monday they have designed a blood test that can measure a person’s inner body clock within 1.5 hours, an advance that may help personalize medical treatments in the future. The study was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of

2019 Medicare Part D Late-Enrollment Penalties will decrease by 5.23% - But maximum penalties can reach $601 per year

any Medicare beneficiaries are affected by late enrollment penalties for not enrolling in Part D when they became first eligible. Well, there is a little good news.

Exercise may protect the brain from disease and dementia as we age, but the mechanisms behind its benefits are still murky.(Photo: Istock.com/Emir Memedovski) er seed snack. But various studies that randomize elderly people with dementia—including those with Alzheimer’s dementia—to exercise or control groups have been contradictory: Only some have shown that exercise improves cognitive function. That raises questions about how much good exercise can do in the human brain once a neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s has already What is it about exercise that might protect the brain? A key benefit of exercise could be that it helps the brain make new neurons. In the hippocampus, a brain structure key to learning and memory, there are cells known as neural progenitors that can give rise to new brain cells. Recently, there’s been debate about whether humans make new neurons throughout life. But studies in rodents have shown that neurogenesis in adulthood helps keep certain cognitive skills sharp, including the ability to learn about the physical environment and remember how to navigate it. And some rodent studies have linked regular exercise to neurogenesis. For example, having mice run on a wheel seems to double the number of newborn hippocampal neurons that survive in their brains. In the new Science paper, the exercising mice that showed brain benefits in the memory tests also had markers of neurogenesis. So can neurogenesis in the absence of exercise help the brain? The new study suggests neurogenesis alone might not be enough. The researchers gave the diseased mice a drug that protects neural progenitor cells in the hippocampus, plus a gene therapy that encourages these cells to proliferate. The mice made new brain cells, but that didn’t seem to help their memory. Only when they got an

additional treatment—another gene to boost levels of a protein called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)—did they outperform untreated control mice on the memory tests. BDNF, which encourages neural growth, also appeared to reduce inflammation in the diseased brain. The results suggest making new neurons early in life may protect memory later on, but that a brain already afflicted with Alzheimer’s is “a hostile playing environment,” says Rudolph Tanzi, a neurogeneticist at Harvard Medical School in Boston and co-author on the study. BDNF “cleans up the neighborhood … so that the new neurons that are born can live.” Could we treat Alzheimer’s in people with a similar strategy? That approach has gotten less attention from drug companies than efforts to reduce amyloid plaques that surround and kill neurons. But some researchers think it deserves a closer look. There are still important caveats to such an approach, says Mark Mattson, a neuroscientist at the National Institute on Aging in Baltimore, Maryland. For one thing, progenitor cells in the hippocampus make a type of neuron key to spatial learning and memory, but this isn’t the same type of neuron that appears to degenerate and die in the hippocampi of people with Alzheimer’s. And even if making these new cells protects certain brain functions, there are lots of other brain regions outside the hippocampus affected by Alzheimer’s. Still, the approach is worth further study, he adds. “So far, it’s been kind of tunnel vision in focusing on amyloid,” he says. “The more approaches, in my mind, the better.” (- Science magazine)

Simple blood test may reveal your body’s inner clock ASHINGTON | AFP | Monday 9/10/2018 - Ever feel like it’s 7 am, even though the clock says 9 am?

Tel: 713-774-5140

Sciences (PNAS), a peer-reviewed US journal. The “circadian rhythm” governs all cells in the body, and is a burgeoning field of research. Three US geneticists won the Nobel Prize for Medicine last year for discovering the molecules that drive the process. This biological clock regulates “all sorts of biological processes, when you feel sleepy, when you feel hungry, when your immune system is active,

when your blood pressure is high, when your body temp changes,” said lead author Rosemary Braun, assistant professor of biostatistics at Northwestern University.

The average monthly 2019 Medicare Part D base premium used to calculate the late-enrollment penalty will decrease to $33.19, a 5.23% decrease from the 2018 base premium of $35.02. You may remember that the 2018 Medicare Part D base premium was a 1.71% decrease over the 2017 base premium of $35.63. How is your late-enrollment penalty calculated? The Medicare Part D late-enrollment premium penalty (LEP) is an additional monthly cost paid by Medicare Part D beneficiaries who did not enroll in a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan when they were first eligible - or who were without “creditable” prescription drug coverage for more than 63 days. “Creditable drug coverage” is any prescription coverage that is at least as good as basic Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Some examples of creditable drug coverage include VA (Veterans Administration) drug coverage, TRICARE, or employer/union drug coverage (but check with your employer / union health plan administrator to verify your drug coverage is “creditable” for purposes of Medicare Part D). If you are subject to a late-enrollment penalty, you will pay your plan’s monthly Medicare Part D premium along with an additional penalty calculated as one percent (1%) of the annual national base Medicare Part D monthly premium for each month you were without creditable prescription drug coverage. The penalty is permanent and you will pay the penalty (adjusted each year for the annual base Medicare Part D premium) as long as you have Medicare drug coverage. An example of how to estimate your 2019 Medicare Part D late-enrollment penalty If you were previously without creditable prescription drug coverage for five years (60 months), you would pay, in addition to your monthly Medicare plan premium, a monthly penalty of $19.91 (60 months without drug coverage * 1% of $33.19) or around an additional $239 per year for your drug coverage. (Typically, the lateenrollment penalty is rounded to the nearest $0.10, so the actual monthly penalty would be $21.00.) On a positive note: You are not responsible for calculating your own penalty. Your actual late-enrollment penalty will be calculated by the Social Security Administration, reported to your Medicare Part D or Medicare

Sudhir Mathuria HEALTHLIFE 360 713-771-2900 Advantage plan, and then reported to you. As reference, the annual base Medicare Part D premium is calculated on an annual basis and released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Here are the average Medicare Part D base premium values from past years used to calculate late-enrollment penalties:

How large of a late-enrollment penalty could someone pay in 2019? About $601 per year. It is possible that you could have a late-enrollment penalty reaching as high as an additional $50.10 per month that must be paid in addition to your 2019 Medicare Part D or Medicare Advantage plan premium. Here are the assumptions used for our calculations. -You were eligible for Medicare back before January 2006 and -You never joined a Medicare Part D plan until January 2019 and -You are not eligible for the financial Extra Help program and -You have been without any other creditable prescription drug coverage since the start of the Medicare Part D program (151 months) (we begin to count months starting with June 2006 through December 2018).

To select right Medicare Prescription Drug plan, Medicare Advantage plan or Medicare supplement plan contact Sudhir Mathuria at 713-771-2900.

When the clock is not regulated properly, research has shown a link to diseases like Alzheimer’s, heart problems and diabetes. Other research has pointed to the possibility some medical interventions like chemotherapy or blood pressure drugs might be more effective if taken

at a certain time. For the current study, researchers took more than 1,100 blood samples from 73 people.

Samples were taken about every two hours, and gene activity was tested at each interval to see how it changed over the course of a day.

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Infectious theory of Alzheimer’s disease draws fresh interest

S. Korea reports first MERS case in three years

EOUL, South Korea | AFP | Saturday 9/8/2018 - South Korea reported its first case of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) in three years, health officials said on Saturday. A 61-year-old businessman was diagnosed with the highly contagious viral respiratory illness, according to officials at the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC). He returned to South Korea Friday from a business trip in Kuwait where he stayed for three weeks, the KCDC said a statement.

“Authorities have traced and separated 20 people who have come in close contact with the infected person,” KCDC head Chung Eun-gyeong told journalists. They include medical staff, flight attendants and passengers of the plane the man flew back to South Korea on, she said. He was hospitalised with fever and phlegm and has been quarantined at a university hospital, she added. It is the first case of MERS diagnosed in South Korea since 2015, when an outbreak killed 38 people and triggered widespread panic.

OxyContin creator being sued for ‘significant role in causing opioid epidemic’ In 2007, three top current and former employees for Purdue admitted that they had misled doctors and their patients by Lindsey Bever

ollowing hundreds of lawsuits over the years against pharmaceutical giant Purdue Pharma, Colorado’s attorney general is suing the OxyContin creator for its “significant role in causing the opioid epidemic”. The lawsuit claims Purdue Pharma LP and Purdue Pharma Inc deluded doctors and patients in Colorado about the potential for addiction with prescription opioids and continued to push the drugs. And it comes amid news that the company’s former chairman and president, Richard Sackler, has patented a new drug to help wean addicts from opioids.

a spokesman for Purdue Pharma said in the statement. “We believe it is inappropriate for the state to substitute its judgment for the judgment of the regulatory, scientific and medical experts at FDA.”1/6 In 2016, there were more than 63,000 drug overdose deaths in US, and more than 66 per cent of them were attributed to opioids, according to the most recent data from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention. The CDC states that both illegal opioids and prescription opioids, which are commonly used to treat pain, have been associated with addiction, overdoses and death.

by Bret Stetka

“Purdue’s habit-forming medications coupled with their reckless marketing have robbed children of their parents, families of their sons and daughters, and destroyed the lives of our friends, neighbours, and coworkers,” Colorado Attorney General Cynthia Coffman said. “While no amount of money can bring back loved ones, it can compensate for the enormous costs brought about by Purdue’s intentional misconduct.” The lawsuit states that Purdue Pharma “downplayed the risk of addiction associated with opioids,” “exaggerated the benefits” and “advised healthcare professionals that they were violating their Hippocratic Oath and failing their patients unless they treated pain symptoms with opioids,” according to the Colorado attorney general’s office. But Purdue Pharma “vigorously” denied the accusations in a statement to The Washington Post, saying that although it shares “the state’s concern about the opioid crisis,” it did not mislead health-care providers about prescription opioids. “The state claims Purdue acted improperly by communicating with prescribers about scientific and medical information that FDA has expressly considered and continues to approve,”

In federal court in 2007, three top current and former employees for Purdue pleaded guilty to criminal charges, admitting that they had falsely led doctors and their patients to believe that OxyContin was less likely to be abused than other drugs in its class, according to The New York Times. Then earlier this year, the Wall Street Journal reported that Purdue planned to stop promoting the drug. Now, it seems, a new business venture is only adding to the outcry. The Financial Times reported that Sackler, whose family owns Purdue Pharma, a multibillion-dollar company, patented a new drug earlier this year that is a form of buprenorphine, a mild opioid that is used to ease withdrawal symptoms. However, some are expressing outrage that the Sacklers, who have in essence profited from opioid addictions, may soon be profiting from the antidote. “It’s reprehensible what Purdue Pharma has done to our public health,” Luke Nasta, director of Camelot, a New Yorkbased treatment centre for drug and alcohol addiction, told The Financial Times. He said the Sackler family “shouldn’t be allowed to peddle any more synthetic opiates – and that includes opioid substitutes.”

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Alzheimer’s is the body’s reaction to this neurotoxic mess. All the excess protein revs up the immune system, causing inflammation - and it’s this inflammation that does the most damage to the Alzheimer’safflicted brain.

r. Leslie Norins is willing to hand over $1 million of his own money to anyone who can clarify something: Is Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia worldwide, caused by a germ? By “germ” he means microbes like bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. In other words, Norins, a physician turned publisher, wants to know if Alzheimer’s is infectious. It’s an idea that just a few years ago would’ve seemed to many an easy way to drain your research budget on bunk science. Money has poured into Alzheimer’s research for years, but until very recently not much of it went toward investigating infection in causing dementia. But this “germ theory” of Alzheimer’s, as Norins calls it, has been fermenting in the literature for decades. Even early 20th century Czech physician Oskar Fischer — who, along with his German contemporary Dr. Alois Alzheimer, was integral in first describing the condition --noted a possible connection between the newly identified dementia and tuberculosis. If the germ theory gets traction, even in some Alzheimer’s patients, it could trigger a seismic shift in how doctors and understand and treat the disease. For instance, would we see a day when dementia is prevented with a vaccine, or treated with antibiotics and antiviral medications? Norins thinks it’s worth looking into. Norins received his medical degree from Duke in the early 1960s, and after a stint at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention he fell into a lucrative career in medical publishing. He eventually settled in an admittedly aged community in Naples, Florida, where he took an interest in dementia and began reading up on the condition. After scouring the medical literature he noticed a pattern.

The Sacklers, who have in essence profited from opioid addictions, may soon be profiting from the antidote’ ( Photo: Reuters )

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

“It appeared that many of the reported characteristics of Alzheimer’s disease were compatible with an infectious process,” Norins tells NPR. “I thought for sure this must have already been investigated, because millions and millions of dollars have been spent on Al-

The patent’s description acknowledges the risk of addiction that is associated with the drugs, saying: “While opioids have always been known to be useful in pain treatment, they also display an addictive potential in view of their euphorigenic activity. Thus, if opioids are taken by healthy human subjects with a drug seeking behaviour they may lead to psychological as well as physical dependence. “These usually undesired characteristics of opioids can however become important in certain scenarios such as drug substitution therapies for drug addicts. One of the fundamental problems of illicit drug abuse by drug addicts (”junkies”) who are dependent on the constant intake of illegal drugs such as heroin is the drug-related criminal activities resorted to by such addicts in order to raise enough money to fund their addiction. The constant pressures upon addicts to procure money for buying drugs and the concomitant criminal activities have been increasingly recognised as a major factor that counteracts efficient and long-lasting withdrawal and abstinence from drugs.” The patent states that the drug could be used both in drug replacement therapy as well as for pain management. Purdue Pharma did not respond to requests for comment on the new drug, but in addressing the lawsuit in Colorado, the company said: “We share the state’s concern about the opioid crisis. While our opioid medicines account for less than 2 per cent of total prescriptions, we will continue to work collaboratively with the state towards bringing meaningful solutions to address this public health challenge.” (-Washington Post)

The search for the cause of Alzheimer’s has so far come up dry. Some researchers are now asking if germs play a role. (Illustration: Ariel Davis/NPR) zheimer’s research.” But aside from scattered interest through the decades, this wasn’t the case. In 2017, Norins launched Alzheimer’s Germ Quest, Inc., a public benefit corporation he hopes will drive interest into the germ theory of Alzheimer’s, and through which his prize will be distributed. A white paper he penned for the site reads: “From a two-year review of the scientific literature, I believe it’s now clear that just one germ — identity not yet specified, and possibly not yet discovered — causes most AD. I’m calling it the ‘Alzheimer’s Germ.’ “ Norins is quick to cite sources and studies supporting his claim, among them a 2010 study published in the Journal of Neurosurgery showing that neurosurgeons die from Alzheimer’s at a seven-fold higher rate than they do from other disorders. Another study from that same year, published in The Journal of the American Geriatric Society found that people whose spouses have dementia are at a six-times greater risk for the condition themselves. Contagion does come to mind. And Norins isn’t alone in his thinking. In 2016, 32 researchers from universities around the world signed an editorial in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease calling for “further research on the role of infectious agents in [Alzheimer’s] causation.” Based on much of the same evidence Norins encountered, the authors concluded that clinical trials with antimicrobial drugs in Alzheimer’s are now justified. NPR reported on an intriguing study published in Neuron in June that suggested that viral infection can influence the progression of Alzheimer’s. Led by Mt. Sinai genetics professor Joel Dudley, the work was intended to compare the genomes of healthy brain tissue with that affected by dementia.

for decades by incorporating their genomes into our own. The classic example is chickenpox: A childhood viral infection resolves and lurks silently, only returning years later as shingles, an excruciating rash. Like it or not, nearly all of us are chimeras with viral DNA speckling our genomes. But having the herpes viruses alone doesn’t mean inevitable brain decline. After all, up to 75 percent of us are may harbor HHV-6 .

Tanzi feels that microbes are just one possible seed for the complex pathology behind Alzheimer’s. Genetics may also play a role, as certain genes produce a type of amyloid more prone to clumping up. He also feels environmental factors like pollution might contribute.

But Dudley also noticed that herpes appeared to interact with human genes known to increase Alzheimer’s risk. Perhaps, he says, there is some toxic combination of genetic and infectious influence that results in the disease; a combination that sparks what some feel is the main contributor to the disease, an overactive immune system.

Dr. James Burke, professor of medicine and psychiatry at Duke University’s Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, isn’t willing to abandon the amyloid theory altogether, but agrees it’s time for the field to move on. “There may be many roads to developing Alzheimer’s disease and it would be shortsighted to focus just on amyloid and tau,” he says. “A million-dollar prize is attention- getting but the reward for identifying a treatable target to delay or prevent Alzheimer’s disease is invaluable.”

The hallmark pathology of Alzheimer’s is accumulation of a protein called amyloid in the brain. Many researchers have assumed these aggregates, or plaques, are simply a byproduct of some other process at the core of the disease. Other scientists posit that the protein itself contributes to the condition in some way.

Any treatment that disrupts the cascade leading to amyloid, tau and inflammation could theoretically benefit an at-risk brain. The vast majority of Alzheimer’s treatment trials have failed, including many targeting amyloid. But it could be that the patients included were too far along in their disease to reap any therapeutic benefit.

The theory that amyloid is the root cause of Alzheimer’s is losing steam. But the protein may still contribute to the disease, even if it winds up being deemed infectious.

If a microbe is responsible for all or some cases of Alzheimer’s, perhaps future treatments or preventive approaches will prevent toxin protein buildup in the first place. Both Tanzi and Norins believe Alzheimer’s vaccines against viruses like herpes might one day become common practice.

Work by Harvard neuroscientist Rudolph Tanzi suggests it might be a bit of both. Along with colleague Robert Moir, Tanzi has shown that amyloid is lethal to viruses and bacteria in the test tube, and also in mice. He now believes the protein is part of our ancient immune system that like antibodies, ramps up its activity to help fend off unwanted bugs. So does that mean that the microbe is the cause of Alzheimer’s, and amyloid a harmless reaction to it? According to Tanzi it’s not that simple.

Dudley’s team noticed an unexpectedly high level of viral DNA from two human herpes viruses, HHV-6 and HHV-7. The viruses are common and cause a rash called roseola in young children (not the sexually transmitted disease caused by other strains).

Tanzi believes that in many cases of Alzheimer’s, microbes are probably the initial seed that sets off a toxic tumble of molecular dominos. Early in the disease amyloid protein builds up to fight infection, yet too much of the protein begins to impair function of neurons in the brain. The excess amyloid then causes another protein, called tau, to form tangles, which further harm brain cells.

Some viruses have the ability to lie dormant in our neurons

But as Tanzi explains, the ultimate neurological insult in

But something kept getting in the way: herpes.

So what does this say about the future of treatment? Possibly a lot. Tanzi envisions a day when people are screened at, say, 50 years old. “If their brains are riddled with too much amyloid,” he says, “we knock it down a bit with antiviral medications. It’s just like how you are prescribed preventative drugs if your cholesterol is too high.”

In July of this year, in collaboration with Norins, the Infectious Diseases Society of America announced that they plan to offer two $50,000 grants supporting research into a microbial association with Alzheimer’s. According to Norins, this is the first acknowledgement by a leading infectious disease group that Alzheimer’s may be microbial in nature – or at least that it’s worth exploring. “The important thing is not the amount of the money, which is a pittance compared with the $2 billion NIH spends on amyloid and tau research,” says Norins, “but rather the respectability and more mainstream status the grants confer on investigating of the infectious possibility. Remember when we thought ulcers were caused by stress?” Ulcers, we now know, are caused by a germ. (- NPR)

ART & CULTURE

VOICE OF ASIA 19

Birmingham Museum of Art returns to India Shiva sculpture stolen by Indian American art dealer The Birmingham Museum of Art in Birmingham, Alabama, has returned this ancient statue of Lord Shiva to India, which was stolen out of the country as a part of a $100 million international smuggling racket organized by Indian American art dealer Subhash Kapoor. (artsbma.org) by Staff Reporter

n the formal ceremony, which was hosted by the Consulate General of India in New York, and attended by Consul General Sandeep Chakravorty, the museum returned a stone sculpture of the Hindu deity, Shiva, nearly three years after it was discovered that the work was stolen out of India as a part of a $100 million international smuggling racket organized by art dealer Subhash Kapoor of Art of the Past gallery. The sculpture, titled ‘Lingodhbhavamurti’ (Shiva Manifesting within the Linga of Flames), was purchased in 2008 by the Art Fund of Birmingham, Inc.— a non-profit corporation with a mission to support the Birmingham Museum of Art — from the New York-based Indian American art dealer and placed it on loan to the museum. The statue remained on view until it was discovered that it was a stolen piece of art, the museum said in a press release. The nearly four-foot tall stone sculpture depicts a pillar of fire splitting open to reveal the god Shiva in all his glory, witnessed by the deities Brahma (in the form of a goose) and Vishnu (as a boar) posed above and below. With ancient origins that date the work to the Chola dynasty, the sculpture was created around 1150 CE, said the museum. Through his galleries, Kapoor sold antiquities to reputable museums

Indian monks keep an ancient tradition alive

AJULI, India (AP) — Every morning, on an island in the Brahmaputra River, centuriesold monasteries come alive with the sounds of rhythmic chants and the footsteps of young monks closely watched by their teachers. Majuli island is home to more than 20 Vaishnavite monasteries, traditional prayer halls belonging to an offshoot of Hinduism dedicated to the god Vishnu. Inside the monasteries, thousands of monks are keeping alive an ancient tradition that melds worship with the arts. Vaishnava monks believe the way to salvation is through dance, drama and music. Their

The museum said it was contacted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security in 2015 with “compelling evidence” that the work in its collection was smuggled illegally out of India. Following this revelation, the museum began making arrangements for its repatriation. The sculpture was formally removed in August 2018, and was shipped to New York, where it was processed by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office as evidence in the case against Kapoor, noted the museum. “The Birmingham Museu of Art follows a strict code of ethics to ensure that objects acquired for our collection are not among those stolen from protected sites of religious and/or cultural significance,” Graham Boettcher, director of the Birmingham Museum of Art, said in a statement. “As soon as we learned of the unlawful provenance of this sculpture, we set out to return it to the nation and people of India. It is unquestionably the right thing to do and we are happy to know this important cultural treasure will soon be in its rightful home.”

work centers around dance dramas, based on ancient Indian texts that often focus on the god Krishna, an incarnation of Vishnu. The young monks, many of whom come from poor families, perform the dances at Krishna festivals across India and around the world.

Young Hindu monks practice Mati Akhora devotional performing art at a Vaishnavite monastery, in Majuli, India. This centuries-old tradition is being kept alive in Majuli island, one of the world’s largest river islands, home to more than 20 Vaishnavite monasteries. Vaishnavism is a religious movement, a monotheist offshoot of Hinduism that reveres God Vishnu and one of his most popular reincarnations, Krishna. (AP Photo/Anupam Nath)

The monasteries, called satras, are outposts of traditionalism. No girls are permitted to live inside them, and teachers and students live together, following the ancient Indian teaching tradition. Apart from training in the arts and praying, the young monks also get a secular education and learn to cook and farm.

Meet the gay couple who pleaded with India’s top court for the right to love

around the world, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, and Los Angeles County Museum of Art. In 2011, Kapoor was extradited to India to face charges over the sale of illegally-acquired multimillion dollar artifacts.

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

by Tripti Lahiri

herished rights often come about because organizations and people have worked for years to make them happen. But they also usually depend—in the last mile—on a few people (paywall) deciding to step forward at great personal risk to push a country forward. India’s landmark gay-rights victory today (Sept. 6), decriminalizing same-sex relations between consenting adults, involved both kinds of struggles. Earlier efforts involved a public interest suit brought by an HIV-prevention group, which won a celebrated but limited victory in 2009 that was overturned four years later. Today’s win began with a petition that was filed in 2016 (pdf) and referred to a larger constitutional bench in January, and it depended in large part on a couple who’ve been together for nearly a quarter century. Navtej Singh Johar, 59, a classical dancer and a yoga teacher from the Punjab town of Chandigarh, and his partner, journalist Sunil Mehra, 63, never planned to be a test case. They focused on their own lives and passions. Johar knew early on that he wanted to be a dancer, and trained in classical Bharatanatyam, winning a top Indian dance honor in 2014. Meh-

ra wrote for leading Indian publications about women’s rights, the threat to coral reefs off India’s coasts, and at times, his own experiences being a gay man in India. The two became a couple, according to the Indian Express, after Mehra was assigned in 1994 to write a profile of Johar. After meeting the dancer, he came back to the office to tell his editor he wouldn’t be able to do it objectively. Six months later the couple moved in together, and have been together ever since, at one point opening a yoga and dance studio in Delhi. It was through the yoga studio that they befriended a pair of lawyers who would eventually help persuade them to be at the forefront of a new effort to tackle Section 377, a colonial-era criminal statute that made “unnatural sex” punishable by between 10 years in jail and a life sentence. That made it risky to be openly gay because of the scrutiny people could draw from the police. The petition says that the couple managed to live together for more than 20 years with the support of family and friends. It also said that though Mehra had been targeted at times for being gay, he never reported it to the police for fear of being targeted under 377. Still, because of class privilege, Mehra and Johar were unlikely to

face the kind of blackmail or extortion other LGBT men and women encounter in India, and could likely have continued on with their lives fairly peacefully. They could have rejected the idea broached by lawyers Menaka Guruswamy and Arundhati Katju that they bring a new, more personal plea before the top court, grounded in their constitutional rights as Indian citizens. Instead, they decided to put their own lives on hold, and petition the court to declare 377 unconstitutional. Others, including prominent restaurateur Ritu Dalmia, hotelier Aman Nath, and businesswoman Ayesha Kapur, also stepped forward (paywall). We have been OK. I am 63—we have lived our lives. We had fought for our bit of sun and we found it. It was more for all those who didn’t have our class privileges, education, intellect, money and connections to insulate them. It was so that these other lives could be lived in the sun, rather than in burrowed, dark spaces. It was a message Guruswamy echoed in July before the court, where she was representing a group of LGBT students whose case had been linked to Johar and Mehra’s. She recounted the history of the couple’s relationship, and told the court the case was not about sex, but about love, and most of all, about the future. - Quartz

BEAUTY & STYLE

VOICE OF ASIA 20

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Sari lovers: Akaaro collection These beauty foods will give you

UMBAI - Just in time for the festive season, Gaurav Jai Gupta’s Akaaro has come up with a line of handwoven saris titled ‘Granular Times’. The label will release the collection in an exhibition on September 7, 2018, at Mumbai’s multi-designer store, Bungalow 8, where you can be prepared to find 50 saris in Gupta’s classic handwoven style. With a slew of events planned for wedding season, anyone who identifies with Akaaro’s pared-back glamour can head over to the South Mumbai spot to get their fix of innovative saris that blend silk, cotton, wool and metal in the six yard staple.

tage which creates its own challenges and limitations for a designer. We have to be understanding towards the cultural significance of the garment as we bring a contemporary interpretation to it. The end result reflects a contemporary take of the sari without straying too far from history and culture—it’s like staging a modern and contemporary interpretation of a raaga,” says Gupta. So take a first look at the A k a a r o ’s new collection.

Coming together at the launch with the designer du jour is textile revivalist and sari aficionado, Jaya Jaitly, for a walkthrough. With books like Craft Atlas of India (2012), The Artistry of Handwork (2014) and Woven Textiles of Varanasi (2014) to her name, Jaitly will bring an academic approach to the exhibition for those who want to understanding the starting points and unique beauty of each handcrafted sari.

the best skin and hair of your life by Hasina Khatib

et’s be honest: you’ve spent your entire childhood nodding along dutifully to your granny when she extolled the many virtues of desi ghee, but it was only when Kareena Kapoor Khan gave her stamp of approval to this homegrown favourite, that you realised its potential. With the advancements in the beauty industry, there is little that over-the-counter purchases can’t do, but if you are looking at truly nourishing your skin

and hair from within, you need to turn your focus to natural ingredients that pamper your visage and tresses with completely organic benefits. No ifs, no buts, no strings attached. If you have been looking to go au natural with your skincare and haircare routine, but didn’t know where to start, celebrity dermatologist, Dr Harshna Bijlani is here to help with her handy cheat sheet on how to give your beauty routine an organic makeover. (- Vogue India)

(- Vogue India)

‘a fragment of time can feel odd but it can also feel like it is about to arrive’ -akarro @ Instagram

Over the last decade, the designer has worked with weavers from Phulia, Chanderi and Varanasi in India to bring this collection together. “As a garment, the sari has a unique heri-

Images: Shovan Gandhi for Akaaro

Aloe Vera This resilient plant can grow under challenging conditions and was rightly referred to as the plant of immortality by ancient Egyptians. It contains various nutrients that you already find in your skincare staples—including glycerin and sorbitol, among others. While the former acts as a superb cleansing agent for fighting acne, the latter helps retain moisture in your skin which, in turn, prevents fine lines and wrinkles. Aloe vera also serves up an effective cure for sunburn, fighting signs of ageing and reducing dandruff in conjunction with promoting hair growth. How to use aloe vera in your skin-

care routine The biggest benefit of aloe vera is that it can be used naturally on the skin, plucked from the plant and applied on your face, body and scalp without any additions. Its essential ingredients can get to work directly on your skin when used in its natural form. How to use aloe vera in your haircare regimen If you’ve been looking to boost hair growth, create a quick concoction of aloe vera and castor oil in equal amounts, massage it on to your scalp and then wash it off after three-four hours to help increase the volume of your tresses, and reduce dandruff.

Above: Handwoven engineered Silk Saree with gold & silver graded metal. Right: “The Saree, as a garment, has a unique & strong heritage which limits the options that the designer has. Because of these limitations, this collection has chosen to go back to the basics and adhere to an extreme rigour while envisaging the collection. Care has been taken to take the format of the Saree further without snapping our collective cultural association with its past.” akaaro@Instagram

Everything you need to know about microblading your eyebrows

Spirulina This beauty superfood comes from blue-green algae, and has a host of benefits for your skin, hair and health. It serves as a veritable bank of minerals and nutrients, including protein, Vitamins B1, B2 and B3, copper, iron and amino acids. It works as a high-powered antioxidant and boasts of anti-acne, anti-inflammatory, detoxifying and anti-ageing properties to help your skin. It also promises visible results for those suffering from dandruff or incessant hair fall.

by Alexis Bennett

t doesn’t matter if you like them arched and feathered or straight and bold, eyebrows are arguably the most important facial feature. If you’re not satisfied with the ones you have, there are so many ways to update them, including brow gel, pencils, and even tattooing. But now there’s a very natural option that delivers semipermanent results. Ladies, we’d like to introduce you to microblading. Unlike the sometimes Sharpie-esque effects of permanent makeup, microblading is more of an embroidery of trompe l’œil strokes that look just like real hairs. Nadia Afanaseva, microblading expert and trainer at Eye Design New York gave us the 411 on the unique service, and after our talk there’s no surprise why so many women love it. “Microblading is perfect for those who want to fully reconstruct, define, cover gaps, or fill-in over plucked brows,” she explained. The professional lash and eyebrow expert also revealed that those who just want to add a slight arch are also great candidates, and the results are a natural, undetectable fringe. If you’re still not sure how the technique differs from tattooing, Afanaseva explained that “during the microblading process we use a special microblading pen to draw on individual strokes one by one.” It’s an extremely meticulous process that

How to use spirulina to your skincare routine Simply add a dash of honey to spi-

Photo: Shutterstock takes around two hours to complete. Since the results will last for up to three years before beginning to fade it’s good to know that the technicians pay so much attention to detail. Before the microblading begins, a topical numbing cream is applied to the area to minimize discomfort, followed by a liquid anesthetic. If you’re worried that the process is painful, Afanaseva assures, “some clients may feel a slight discomfort, but it’s relatively painless.” The best part about the technique is that there is no down time. Your new set of brows will be ready for a selfie immediately after the process. The pro, however, does recommend a fol-

low-up one month after your appointment. “The healing process is different for everyone, and it takes between 25 and 30 days. After a month we recommend a 40-minute touch-up to most customers.” “Unlike eyebrow extensions, which you have to be careful about maintaining, microblading is low maintenance. After healing, you can rub them and enjoy swimming. No special care is required, except for a brief touch-up once a year.” The smudge-proof solution will cost you anywhere between $700 and $800. But waking up every morning with perfect brows may totally be worth it. - Instyle

rulina powder and mix the two until it forms a paste. Apply the mixture on your face to see cleaner, glowing skin within 20 minutes. A host of over-the-counter spirulina face masks are also available now that work on clearing up the complexion. How to use spirulina in your hair care regimen Add one tbsp of apple cider vinegar, half an avocado and one tbsp of cold-pressed coconut oil to one tsp of spirulina powder. Mix these components together, massage it evenly onto your scalp, leave it on for 1520 minutes and then wash it off for healthy, shinier and stronger hair.

Honey

cessed honey, hence giving better results for your skin and health.

This hardworking antioxidant is naturally moisturising and is known as a humectant, which means that it helps retain moisture and achieve soft, supple and well-hydrated skin. It also helps to lighten scars, soften chapped lips and treat extremely dry skin. Plus, honey works as a hair conditioner as well as strengthening agent to protect your hair roots due to its antioxidant properties. It helps prevents scalp infections and soothes issues like dandruff, eczema and psoriasis due to its antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. When shopping, it is essential to pick raw honey as it contains more active phytonutrient antioxidants and enzymes as compared to heated or pro-

How to use honey in your skincare routine For an easy mask, mix the juice from half a lemon with one tbsp of organic honey for cleaner, hydrated, de-tanned skin. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water, followed by cold water to close back your pores. How to use honey in your haircare routine Harness the power of both by mixing two eggs with one cup of honey and apply the paste from your roots to the tips. After letting it sit for 20 minutes, rinse it off well with shampoo for stronger, shinier hair.

VOICE OF ASIA 21

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

Home&Real Estate Houston home listed for $1 sells for $270,000

by Lucy Wang

by Staff Reporter

ew countertops are one of the most exciting additions to any kitchen remodel. Yet for Los Angeles–based designer Sarah Sherman Samuel, the reasons behind the Caesarstone surface choices in her most recent renovation include much more than just their transformative good looks.

OUSTON - A home that captured the imagination of the local public when it hit the market in June at $1 recently sold for $270,000 at the start of September. Houston real estate agent Wes Stoyanov related that the low listing price attracted dozens of serious offers. Interest was very strong in this home. More than 100 people came to the first two open house events at the remodeled home in west Houston. In the end, the $270,000 selling price wasn’t even the highest offer, he said. “This particular marketing strategy worked out really well for the seller. I sold the house five times quicker than the market average”, he related.

The home at 18531 Berry Leaf Court is fully renovated and listed initially for $1. This charming 2 story home was originally built by Perry Homes. It features 5 beds, 2 baths, and a half bath. Large sized back yard and easy access to freeways. (All captions supplied by real estate agent).

It seems to have be a winning strategy. No doubt we will be seeing much more of these “eBay-type auction” offering in the future on the real estate market.

A designer with a passion for surface materials explains why she chose Caesarstone quartz for her latest kitchen renovation.

Her clients Eden and Zan Passante own a quaint California ranch home that needed a modern refresh for a brighter feel. A beautiful new kitchen was of particular importance to Eden, who not only enjoys having people over, but also sees entertaining as a serious business—her lifestyle blog, Sugar and Charm, relies heavily on engaging photos for her hosting tips, recipes and more. “Since she has the blog, the kitchen had to be very photogenic and aesthetically pleasing,” Sarah notes. “Eden also wanted beautiful surfaces to shoot on, especially because top-down photos on countertops are so important in the blogging and Instagram world.”

While it was a bit of a novelty to risk a very low sale, given the opening bid potential, the professional assurance given the location and appearance of the home made it a worthwhile tactic, as least in the mind of the seller and Mr. Stoyamov’s agency.

- Photos: HAR.com

How an Instagram-worthy kitchen renovation comes alive with the right surfaces

The inviting long entry features a brand new Mahogany door. New Vinyl flooring and light colors are sure to complement any of your future decor.

Kirby Mansion finds a buyer for historic preservation property

OUSTON - Kirby Mansion has been purchased by a local Cadillac dealership, which has preservationists concerned that the new owner may tear down the 1920s-built classic property. According to the Houston Chronicle, Central Houston Auto Properties II LLC purchased the property, which was valued at more than $3.92 million. A public campaign has been started to convince to preserve he home that was originally built in 1892. (- HAR.com)

Kirby Mansion is located near downtown Houston.

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Caesarstone was the obvious countertop choice. Highly durable and reliable, Caesarstone quartz is renowned for its nonporous and antimicrobial qualities, which translates to minimal maintenance. This makes life easier for Eden, who doesn’t need to worry about scrubbing out stains or resealing the countertop before a photo shoot. A quick wipe down with warm soapy water is all she needs to bring the surface back to a photogenic shine. As a designer, Sarah is also drawn to Caesarstone for its wide variety of color options and ease of use. “They just have so many beautiful colors,” Sarah explains. “They’re always in my back pocket. I can always spec or at least propose some Caesarstone in most of my projects.” She adds that while kitchen countertops are her go-to choice for Caesarstone, she’s also played around with using the quartz surfaces in bathrooms, from shower benches to a sleek floating vanity. It’s easy to see why Sarah is drawn to the versatility of Caesarstone given her background in surface and product design. Her expertise in combining colors and patterns has gained her a steady following and partner-

Caesarstone’s seamless qualities makes the material a leading choice for dramatic waterfall kitchen countertops. Pictured here is ‘Topus Concrete’. (Photo: Boutique Homes Victoria / Riva 26 Display Home) ships with major brands. When asked about her love for surface design, Sarah said: “Surface materials can really make a space. You don’t really think about it when you enter a space, but you feel it. You feel the surroundings by what the surfaces look like. For instance, you don’t have to touch a velvet pillow to know that it’s soft. Your brain takes it all in and translates it into a feeling. I always find it fascinating how a room can make you feel anxious or happy just by the different textures and surfaces that are there. “You’re probably not even aware that you’re perceiving these surfaces, but you are. I think it’s really interesting how your surroundings affect your mood so much, and that’s why they’re so important. And I think for functional spaces, like the kitchen and bathroom, they’re even more important for your well-being because

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you want beautiful surfaces that are also clean and sanitary.” Bringing that design thinking to Eden and Zan’s kitchen renovation, Sarah sought to create a space that was warm, modern and inviting. “I’d describe my design style as relaxed but edited, and it matches with Eden’s style too, which is modern with a touch of rustic. Still, I’m also always pushing for something a little unexpected. So even though the kitchen is warm and modern, the design isn’t without character.” “I wanted something durable and low-maintenance, with a little variation,” Eden enthuses on her blog. “I had honed before and it was too much upkeep. This polished Caesarstone has been an absolute dream in the kitchen, with zero stains and it cleans up perfectly. We actually used it in our master bath too! I love the look of the waterfall edge!” -Dwell.com

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SMALL BUSINESSES

VOICE OF ASIA 22

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

ACCOUNTANTS BOOK-KEEPING

FRIDAY, September 14, 2018

INCOME TAX

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

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There are opportunities this week to take a step forward, especially regarding work and business. It’s possible to make a big splash if you know what you’re doing.

21 April to 20 May Take care of yourself, Taurus. You’ve been doing a good job looking after everyone else in your life, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore your own health and well-being. Taking time to pamper yourself will benefit your future partner.

21 May to 20 June You love to learn new things, so you could meet your perfect match while taking a class, reading in a library, or screening a documentary at a local theater. When your brain is involved, you’re easily turned on!

21 June to 22 July This is likely to be an extremely busy period. It can see you running short errands and getting easily distracted by multiple demands. These are great days for team building.

23 July to 22 August You may be more bothered than most by the aspects in your house of money and values. Right when you’re on the verge of closing the deal, things just slipped out from under you or got delayed. No matter. They’ll get better.

23 August to 22 Sept No matter what your current health status, you can make changes and take yourself to the next level of wellness. Aspects may coincide with doubts about your ability to reach your goals. This is something you must fight.

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Astrology.com

23 September to 22 Oct Aspects of your life could lighten up as sassy Mars moves into your leisure zone on Monday. With this fiery planet in such a dynamic sector, the coming weeks could see you accomplishing great things.

23 October to 21 Nov This is a lucky time for an interview in order to improve your position or find something new. This can be a stressful period, as forces that seem beyond your control may be determining your future. Network as much as possible now.

22 November to 21 Dec you have activity in your house of money and values, bringing to bear a skill from the past when it comes to earning cash. But aspects affect your house of debt, or other people’s money.

22 December to 20 Jan Think about reorganizing your kitchen so it helps you stay on a healthier eating plan. Clear out cupboards and throw away all the food that isn’t good for you. Turn it into a functional space that works for all the various needs.

21 January to 19 Feb Are you enjoying your freedom, Aquarius, or do you wish you were in a relationship? Sometimes you just want what you don’t or can’t have, so be sure you aren’t in that thinking cycle before you act.

20 February to 20 Mar This is a lucky time for finding a new job or improving your current position. Dress your best and speak with confidence! You can be a source of encouragement in a stressful situation. There is the potential for a breakthrough.

ACROSS 1. Rodeo garb 6. Prefix for prior 9. a.k.a. leaf cabbage 13. Conversation starter 14. “____ the land of the free ...” 15. Drunks 16. Tree in Latin 17. Exec’s degree 18. Full of emotion, in slang 19. *Meeting at Appomattox Court House 21. *Major Civil War issue 23. Sun in Mexico 24. Recover 25. *It was split during the Civil War 28. ____book 30. Be in the right place 35. Botticelli’s Venus, e.g. 37. Soccer ____, pl. 39. Excessive sternness 40. Orthodox artwork 41. Homeless cat’s home 43. Presented at customs 44. Galactic path 46. Desperate 47. Like never-losing Steven 48. Vital 50. Grannies 52. “C’____ la vie!” 53. “At ____, soldier” 55. Casual attire 57. *Spielberg’s 2012 movie 61. *”American Nightingale” 64. Remote in manner 65. Between Fla. and Miss. 67. IRS’ threat 69. Middle Eastern rice dish 70. Hi-____ graphics 71. Part of a whole 72. ____ Mall, in London 73. Cry of horror in comics 74. Ruhr’s industrial center DOWN 1. Repeated Cuban dance step

2. Flavor-giving plant 3. “Fantastic Four” star 4. Land chunks 5. Somewhat 6. Fleshy fruit 7. *Johnny’s other nickname 8. Clear the chalkboard 9. Chicken ____ 10. Initial stake 11. Displeasure on one’s face 12. Grammy of sports 15. Melville’s “Pequod,” e.g. 20. “Is Your Mama a ____?” 22. Dr. Frankenstein’s workplace 24. Bottom of a dress 25. *Divided, it cannot stand 26. Sugar in Paris 27. PDF reader 29. *”____ Mountain,” Charles Frazier’s novel 31. Like SNL 32. Nose of a missile 33. Olfactory organs 34. *General and post-Civil War President 36. Children’s author ____ Blyton 38. “Will be” in Doris Day song 42. Busybody, in Yiddish 45. Start a hole 49. Indian restaurant staple 51. Colorful Mexican wrap 54. Animal catcher 56. Lady’s pocketbooks 57. Nordic native 58. Pelvic parts 59. Steelers’s Chuck 60. *___ Torpedo, used by Confederacy against steam engines 61. Lounge, like in the sun 62. Words from Wordsworth 63. French Riviera city 66. *Commander of the Confederate States Army 68. Base of the decimal system

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