VOICE OF ASIA
VOICE OF ASIA 1
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Vol. 27 No. 7 Friday, February 14, 2014 Published Weekly from Houston 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
India ranks 140th in Preet Bharara’s office recovers world press freedom nearly $ 4 billion since Jan 2013 index; Pakistan at 158th WASHINGTON: India has been ranked 140th in the list of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index 2014, whereas China and Pakistan were placed at 175th and 158th position respectively. “India experienced an unprecedented wave of violence against journalists, with eight killed in 2013. They are targeted by both state and non-state actors,” Reporters Without Border said in its latest annual report yesterday. “Almost no region is spared but Kashmir and Chhattisgarh continue to be the only two where violence and censorship are endemic,” it said. “Those responsible for threats and physical violence against journalists, who are often abandoned by the judicial system and forced to censor themselves, include police and security forces as well as criminal groups, demonstrators and political party supporters,” said the report.
Annual FBISD WATCH Your Wellness Health and Fitness Fair, Saturday, March 1
F
ORT BEND ISD - Fort Bend ISD will join the Fort Bend Medical Society Alliance in hosting the annual WATCH Your Wellness Health and Fitness Fair. The free event will be held on Saturday, March 1, from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at the Sugar Land Town Square. The fair will feature more than 40 family friendly health and wellness booths, giveaways, cooking demonstrations, fun activities, and entertainment provided by FBISD student groups. The fair kicks off WATCH Week, which will be observed March 3-7 in FBISD schools. Event sponsors include: Fort Bend ISD, Fort Bend Medical Society Alliance, MetLife, Kelsey-Seybold Clinic, the Fort Bend Community Prevention Coalition, Activate4Kids, the Texas Medical Association Foundation, Sugar Land Town Square, Houston Methodist Hospital-Sugar Land, Memorial Hermann Sugar Land Hospital, The Oliver Foundation, KBRZ Sports Radio, the American Diabetes Association, and Care Van.
Finland has been ranked first in the list followed by Netherland and Norway. The ranking of the US has dropped to 46th position from last year’s 32nd, while China has been ranked at the 175th position and Pakistan at 158th. Pakistan remains one of the most dangerous countries in the world for journalists as besides the armed groups, the country’s intelligence agencies, especially the ISI, also represent a danger, the report said. “There was lack of interest in rendering justice in Pakistan where the government seems powerless against not only the Taliban, Jihadis and other armed groups but also the military apparatus, which international observers describe as a ‘state within the state’,” it said. The 2014 index underscores the negative correlation between freedom of information and conflicts, both open conflicts and undeclared ones, the report said. Continued on page 7
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EARLAND - It was a cold and crisp evening with the wind chill making it feel colder than the forty degree temperature on Friday 7th 2014. Inside the main sannadhi of the Sri Meenakshi Temple, Pearland, the devotee’s heart were warmed to the serene atmosphere created by the “Villaku” (Deepa or Lamp) puja, worshipping the Goddesses, Sri Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswathi, invoked in the form of “Jyothi swaroopa” (form of light), as symbolized by the three silver Kuthuvalaku (lamps). The annual Deepa puja is performed for Sri Meenakshi during the Tamil month of Thai on a Friday evening.. After the invocatory prayer, the lamps were lit and the Kumkum archana for the Lamps started with the recitation of Lalitha Saharanamavali. Sri Manickasundara Bhattar led the beautiful chanting along with SriPawan Kumar and Sri Kalyanasundaram with the devotees accompanying them, thus creating a beautiful reverberation of the sacred sloka. At the end of the Namavali, Devi stuthi was recited, followed by Deeparaadhanai. Flowers, Prasadam and fruits were brought by the devotee to offer the Goddess. Nearly 50 ladies partook in the deepa puja and archana, all resplendent in fine attire braving the cool weather and keen on getting blessing of the Almighty Goddess. The event concluded with the distribution of Kum kum and flowers to the devotees. Mala Gopal, Cultural committee lead from MTS
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EW YORK (PTI) - Indianorigin US prosecutor Preet Bharara’s office has recovered nearly $ four billion from criminal and civil cases since January 2013, including significant forfeitures from JPMorgan Chase, SAC Capital Advisors and jailed hedge fund founder Raj Rajaratnam.
The US Attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York obtained recoveries of more than $ 2.7 billion in forfeiture actions, entered into agreements to recover $ 1.06 billion in restitution, criminal fines, and special assessments, and has recovered $ 149.8 million from civil actions since January last year. Bharara said the penalties and fines stand for the “principle that those who break the law or commit civil offenses, whether institutions or individuals, must not be allowed to profit from their misconduct. It is fair to say the taxpayers have gotten a great return on their investment – almost 8,000 per cent,” since the $ four billion represents nearly 80 times the office’s annual budget. He said the forfeiture “is not only a
The US Attorney’s office for the Southern District of New York obtained recoveries of more than $2.7 bn in forfeiture actions. Reuters matter of deterring bad conduct” but a significant portion of the money recovered would go toward compensating victims of crime or other misconduct who suffered real financial loss. Forfeited funds are generally deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund and the Department of Treasury Forfeiture Fund.
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Continued on page 7
Thai Sukravara Deepa Puja celebrated at Sri Meenakshi Temple
Devotees offering Sri Lalitha Shasranamavalli slokas involking Goddess in the form of Light (Jyothi swaroopa) during the Thai Sukravara Puja at Sri Meenakshi Temple
board coordinated the wonderfully organized event. The devotees
left to go home late night content in partaking in the auspicious puja,
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The $ 149.8 million collected in civil actions came from a combination of cases in which the office collected government money lost due to fraud or other misconduct, collected fines imposed on individuals and corporations for violations of federal health, safety, civil rights, or environmental laws.
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OP-ED/OPINIONS/COMMENTARY
VOICE OF ASIA 2
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Publisher: Associate Publisher: Editor-in-Chief: Austin Correspondent: Print & Media Marketing: Marketing: Production: Office Manager:
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by Michael Cohen (HuffPost). ’m not okay with Valentine’s Day. I’m not going to pretend I am. It’s not because I’m single. I didn’t even like it when I was in a relationship with a guy that sent me not one, but two-dozen malnourished red roses from 1-800Flowers. Thanks for nothing, Groupon. However, I can admit, a majority of us don’t share my sentiment. According to the dating site Are You Interested (ayi), 68% of women and 60% of men agree that Valentine’s Day is all about love--opposed to it being a superficial holiday. So, for all you lovers out there, here are my V-day hells- to- the- no’s and some honey-do’s. Pet Names. There are some really bad one’s out there -- pumpkin, muffin, honey, cookie. Guys, here is the memo: Girls don’t like pet names that can be found in grocery stores. And really, how many times in one day can you use the term ‘baby’ or ‘sweetie?’ Don’t feel you need to over use these pet names, instead, try calling her by the name on her driver’s license. Diamond Doesn’t Begin with KAY. Because Jane Seymour is such a prolific jewelry designer... that ‘Open Hearts’ commercial makes me crazy, especially when she says, “Behind every open heart is a story.” Commercial jewelry is literally too commercial. Get her one of these and she may need open heart surgery, but hey, Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman can fix that right? Wrong. Remember, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, just make sure her best friend isn’t wearing the same diamond. Excessive Texting. This usually happens on Valentine’s Day or when someone has been acting douchey, so by doing so you inadvertently could be opening Pandora’s box. Too many texts are unnecessary and when abused loses it poignancy. Instead, be adventurous and actually make two phone calls. One that says good morning and another one before you’re about to meet up. Russell Stover Chocolate?
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: advertisingvoa@aol.com
Get all your community stories and latest on South Asia, World and US on our website: www. voiceofasiaonline. com Voice of Asia (USPS 010-215) (ISSN#10705058) is published every Friday (for a subscription rate of $30 per year) by Free Press LLC, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074. Tel: 713-774-5140. Fax: 713774-5143. Periodical postage paid at Houston, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Voice of Asia, 8303 SW Freeway, Suite # 325, Houston, TX 77074 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. - The Publisher
Ask Michael Cohen: My Valentine’s Day Do’s, but Mostly, Dont’s
Um, No. Artisanal Chocolates, Please. OMG. Using that absurd guide to distinguish if it’s a truffle or a caramel makes everyone insane. Besides, anything you can find in a Duane Reade is not great chocolate. Godiva is still an upgrade, but finding that new little chocolate factory around the corner is like finding a real golden ticket. P.S. Never ever, ever give chocolates that are fat free -- if you are even thinking fat free you shouldn’t be giving chocolates. Enough with the 50 Shades of Grey Nonsense. Why are you using Valentine’s Day as an excuse to tie each other up? If you really can’t pull it off and it’s not authentic, it’s just plain old silly. As for lingerie -- skip Victoria’s Secret, she wears that everyday. Head over to Agent Provocateur. Then again, skip all of this and proceed to getting naked. Bringing Home Baby. This is not the time to play
Mother Teresa and save a dog from the shelter. A dog as a gift is a very, very bad idea. Come Monday, when your shoes become a chew toy, the novelty will wear off quickly. No. More. Red. Roses. Really? You couldn’t think of anything other than sending or arriving with roses? Just in case I didn’t stress the point, red roses are actually totally thoughtless but most notably, always die. Don’t Think Like a Man. I know. It’s confusing. Thank you Steve Harvey. A woman should act like a lady and never think like a man or knock her man. She should be treated like a lady, especially on this day. If he wants to order a bottle of wine for the both of you, he isn’t trying to disrespect your opinion. He’s just trying to do what men are supposed to do -- take care of their woman, or, believe it or not, act like a gentleman. Chivalry is only dead if you slay it. No Throwback Anything Candy underwear. 90’s Spotify playlist. Hallmark Cards
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with glitter hearts. Anything that reads, “To My Valentine.” Gummy Worms. Teddy bears of any kind. Those chalky Candy Hearts that say, “Be Mine.” Red satin boxer shorts with white hearts. Heart shaped boxes of chocolate. Heart shaped anything. Perfume. Champagne. Bath Products. Kama Sutra dust. Massage oils. One chocolate rose in red foil. Hola Mi Nombre Es Michael This one is simply a honey-do and applies for most of us making our way through this winter that never stops. Head to Miami. Luckily for those who like this idea, Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, making it the perfect weekend getaway. Just get on the plane as crazy as that may sound. Buy bathing suits and some random clothes upon arrival. Don’t worry about the fashion part -people in Miami barely dress. Any other ideas? If so, leave a comment below and feel free to keep sending your questions to mcnewyorkcity@gmail.com Follow Michael Cohen on Twitter: www.twitter.com/AskMrCohen
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VOICE OF ASIA 3
C OMMUNITY VOICE OF ASIA
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Second Front Page
Friday, February 14, 2014
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Classical Arts Society Transforms Sri Meenakshi Temple into Tiruvaiyaru by Chittoor Ramachandran
I
n the 37th annual Tyagaraja Aradhana held last weekend (Jan 2526), hundreds of Carnatic musicians of Greater Houston trained at various levels gathered at Sri Meenakshi Temple Kalyana mandapam. This aradhana is a time-honored tradition to pay tribute to the saint composer Sri Tyagaraja. Classical Arts Society together with Sri Meenakshi Devasthanam deserves the credit for diligently organizing this event year after year since its inception in 1977, by featuring many musicians, musicologists and numerous emerging music performers. By inspiring and setting a stage for innumerable young talents, these two towering institutions are influential in turning Greater Houston into a culturally-enriched belt that warrants the pride of the Indian diaspora. The sanctity of Sri Meenakshi Temple has the perfect ambiance to pay homage to the saint, because reverence to Lord Rama (Rama Bhakthi) and Nadopasana (devotion and worship of music) are the two cardinal features of the music of Saint Tyagaraja. Houston’s Tyagaraja Aradhana stands out prominently among similar festivals held in many parts of the world. At Tiruvaiyaru (in Tamil Nadu) where the saint lived (1767- 1857) and sang hundreds of his compositions until he attained Samadhi, it is a tradition to have a grand commemorative music festival in which Carnatic musicians of all levels offer their respect by singing Tyagaraja krithis. This
festival is held on the day he attained Samadhi. A religious ritual is also performed simultaneously. The recently introduced change in Houston Tyagaraja Aradhana is to conduct the commemorative event in two parts in separate time frames: Part 1 facilitates the ever-increasing number of local musicians wanting to offer their aradhana, and is held on the day that coincides with the saint’s Samadhi day; Part 2 will be conducted as a twoday spring festival (in 2014, on April 11 at MTS and on April 12 at Asia Society Texas Center). The spring festival will include performances by world-class musicians. In this event, the group rendition of Tyagaraja’s Ghana raga Pancharatna Krithis under the leadership of Vidushi Rajarajeswary Bhat that included dozens of vocalists was of admirable quality. Side by side with the rendition of Pancharatna Krithis, Dr. Vivek Natarajan performed Sri Rama abhishekam as a reminiscence of the dedicated routine of the saint in the worship of his deity. This was done in accordance with the advice from Sri Tyagaraja Sharma of Tiruvaiyaru, a descendant of Saint Tyagaraja. The two-day event gave opportunities for more than two hundred individuals of varying degrees of training to pay tribute to Saint Tyagaraja by singing one of his compositions. Attendance that exceeded 400 people by itself is an indication of the overwhelming interest in this event. Several excellent short concerts presented brought in
Group Rendition of Sri Thyagaraja’s Pancharatna Krithis varieties of styles and trends, both traditional and innovative. Although each musician performed beautifully in distinct styles, the short duration was a hindrance to elaborate narration of the krithi. Tara Rengarajan, a disciple of Sri O.S. Tyagarajan was very methodical and enriched with bhava in each raga she sang, which was particularly noticeable in the krithi in Ranjani (Durmargachara) and in Mohanam (Rama ninnu). She showed her prowess with minimum elaboration because of the time limit. The masterly concert presented by Sridevi Josyula was steeped with tradition. She had a noticeable clarity in every phrase she narrated. The raga alapana of her mini concert was pleasant that brought out each raga’s nuances. Some of
the krithi renditions included Shambho Mahadeva and Enati Nomu Phalamu which were delivered with perfection. Padma Saranathan, a disciple of Smt. Suguna Varadachari rendered an aesthetically and technically sound concert. Her concert included ragas Durbar, Chandrajyothi, Atana, Simhendramadhyamam, and more. Padma’s spontaneous inclusion of manodharma in almost all the krithis added her own seal within the permitted periphery. It was an enjoyable concert. Maha Krishnan selectively included popular compositions of Saint Tyagaraja in her concert. Being an accomplished musician, composer, and playback singer, Maha seemed to understand exactly all the factors necessary to make a concert enjoyable. She deserves
The instrumentalists Deepa Ramachandran, Mahesh Iyer (violin), Prof V. N. Shivakumar, Karun Salvady (mridangam) and Ganesh Balasubramanian (kanchira) supported multitudes of concerts. Their superb talent, knowledge and performance added vitality to the entire festival.
appreciation for coordinating this event. Success of this event was due to the enthusiastic involvement and sincere efforts by many unsung heros : - teachers who prepared their students for participation, parents who encouraged their children, stage decoration, front desk management, stage management, sound system control (special thanks to Sesh Bala and Ganesh Balasubramanian for their excellent work). Music lovers are indebted to the Board members of Classical Arts Society. Smt. Prabha Bala, deserves great appreciation for her persistent leadership and zealous interest in music. Success of this event is indeed a great accomplishment.
Chitra Dharmarajan, one of Board members of Classical Arts Society deserves great
For more information, please visit Website http://www.classicalartshouston.org/
credit for meticulously planning her concert and adding uniquely suited manodharma to her krithi rendition to enhance the feeling the krithis are intended to create. Chitra Dharmarajan, Neela Chakravarthy and Usha Easwaran enlightened the audience with rare and Sanskrit compositions of Saint Tyagaraja.
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COMMUNITY/LEGAL
VOICE OF ASIA 4
YOUR IMMIGRATION LAWYER
The People’s Lawyer www.peopleslawyer.net Richard M. Alderman Interim Dean of the Law Center
When it comes to the law, marriage is marriage Q. I have a common law marriage. Does a common law wife have the same rights to her husband’s property as a wife by a formal marriage? A. As I have said many times before, a common law marriage basically is no different in legal effect than any other form of marriage. The parties to a common law marriage have the same rights as any other married couple. If your husband dies or you are divorced, property will be divided as it would be in a more formal marriage. Q. I had an accident. The police said it was the other driver’s fault. His insurance company says I was 20% at fault and will pay only 80% of my damages. What can I do? The damage to my car is almost $4,000. A. First, the approach the insurance company is taking is supported by the law. Under a doctrine know as “proportionate responsibility,” the person who caused the accident is liable for only the damage that was his fault. If you were in fact partially responsible, you could not collect that portion of damage from him. If you believe, however, that you were not at fault, I suggest you ask for an explanation of why the insurance company disagrees. Because the amount of your damage is less than $10,000, justice court may the best place to have an impartial judge decide who is right. Let the insurance company know you are considering justice court, if you can’t work things out. If you don’t resolve the matter you should consider filing a claim against the person who hit you. He will bring his insurance company into the dispute. Q. My wife and I have been married and lived in Texas for over 30 years. We know Texas is a community property state and we are considered to own our property jointly. We are thinking about moving to another state that is not a community property state. How is ownership of our property handled after we move? A. Basically, when it comes to determining ownership of your property, the new state will look to Texas law to determine ownership. If the property was community when you moved, it will be considered half owned by each of you in the new state. Q. How much notice is an employee entitled to before she is fired? I showed up for work this morning and was told tomorrow would be my last day. Am I entitled to two week’s notice? This doesn’t seem fair. A. As a legal matter, you are not entitled to any prior notice. Unless you have an employment contract or union agreement that says otherwise, you may be fired with no prior notice. Your employer may not have treated you fairly, but from a legal standpoint, it had the right to do what it did. Q. I have been having some trouble getting credit. I checked my credit report and found that I have several problem debts from about six years ago. Since that time, I have paid all my bills on time and done everything I can to get a good credit rating. What can do to have these old bad debts removed from my credit report? A. There is probably nothing you can do to have this information removed. Under the law, if the information is not accurate or complete you can insist that the credit-reporting agency re-investigate, and removed the information unless it is substantiated. On the other hand, if the information is accurate, there is no way to have it removed simply because it is negative. Credit reporting agencies are in the business of reporting information. All the law requires is that the information they report is accurate and complete, not necessarily favorable. I should point out that after seven years the information will become obsolete and will no longer be reported. It sounds like within a short period of time your credit history will again appear very good. In the meantime, be sure to emphasize that your credit has been excellent for the past five years. Maybe offering a higher down payment or agreeing to a higher interest will help. Do you want to know more about your legal rights? Check out my website, www.peopleslawyer.net
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Answers to your Immigration Questions by Sharlene Sharmila Richards, Immigration Lawyer: email at srichardslaw@aol.com
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS ABOUT AH-1B VISA (cont...) Q: Do I need to have an offer of employment from an employer in order to get the H-1B visa? A: Yes, an offer of employment in a specialty occupation is Sharlene Sharmila required as it is the potential employer who files or sponsors the petiRichards tion for the H-1B visa on behalf of the employee. You cannot file a petition for H-1B visa on your own. Q: I am now working in the US on F-1 OPT (Optional Practical Training). My OPT expires before October 1st, 2014. I have an offer of employment from my employer and they intend to sponsor me for the H-1B. Can I continue to stay here in the US while the H-1B petition is pending? A: Yes, will qualify for what is known as an automatic cap gap extension but this is only if your employer files the H-1B petition during the validity period of your OPT. When your H-1B petition is approved, your extension will continue until September 30th. Q: Can an employee have more than one H-1B visa? I am currently on H-1B and another company intends to hire me using the H-1B. A: Yes, it is possible to have more than one H-1B visa. This is if you have several employers whom you are working for. Each employer is required to file their own H-1B petition. Your employment can also be part time. In addition to that, provided that you are already in H-1B status and been counted against the H-1B quota sometime in the past six years, your petition by any other concurrent employer will be cap exempt. Q: If my H-1B petition is filed and it is still pending but not yet approved, can I work for the employer? A: If this is your first H-1B petition and you do not have any other basis to work for example employment authorization or OPT, then you cannot work until the H-1B petition is approved. On the other hand, if it is an H-1B transfer and you are not subject to the quota (in other words, you were already subject to the quota to obtain H-1B status), you can work for the employer as soon as the H-1B petition has been filed. Q: I was on H-1B status but was laid of last week. What do I do if I want to continue to stay here in legal status? A: In order to remain in legal status, you will need to transfer to a different H-1B employer or apply to change to a different non-immigrant status as soon as you possibly can. If you were to file for a change of status to F-1 or TN (for Canadian or Mexican nationals), you may continue to remain in the US while your change of status is still pending. Q: My employer’s business is slow and I am worried that they will ask me to take time off work and not pay my wages. If this happens, will this affect my H-1B status? A: When the H-1B employer refuses to pay the H-1B employee because of a slowdown in business, this is called benching the employee. Benching is not allowed and the employer must continue to pay the H-1B employee despite a slowdown in the business and even if there is no work to do. The other option the employer has is to terminate the employee. If you are not receiving your wages because you have been benched, technically, you can be deemed to have lost your H-1B status. Q: My sister has an H-1B visa in her passport but she stopped working for the company and returned to India for 6 months now. Can she travel to the US and use that H-1B visa stamp to return to the US as is looks like it is still valid for another one year? A: No, she may not. The reason is she no longer has valid H-1B status and if she tries to use the H-1B stamp, she runs the risk of being denied entry to the US for not being in possession of a valid visa. 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. 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. If you require advice or assistance, you may contact her at telephone number 713-623-8088 or by email at srichardslaw@aol.com to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. Also you can visit www. houstonimmigrationattorney.com
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VOICE OF ASIA 5
Sugarland, TX: February 10, 2014 –Sugarland Mayor James Thompson presented a check of $50,385.40 to Rachele Ferraro and Misty Hughes of The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) on February 4 at a small ceremony held at the Great American Cookies store located inside the First Colony Mall. Global Franchise Group (GFG), the Franchisor of Great American Cookies and Pretzel Maker, partnered with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) as a Special Friend in the ďŹ ght against cancer in 2013.
Great American Cookies & Pretzel Maker Locations Raise Over $50,000 To Benefit The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society By Selling Paper Balloons Thousands Walked to End Cancer on October 12, 2013 at Discovery Green in Houston & on October 20, 2013 at Market Street in The Woodlands
The funds were raised by the employees of Sugarland based VKC Refreshment LP d/b/a Great American Cookies, and Pretzel Maker in the Greater Houston area. Funds were raised by selling paper balloons for small donations and through various other fund raising events leading up to the inspirational and memorable 14th annual Light The Night (LTN) walk at Discovery Green in Houston and at Market Street in The Woodlands. At the LTN participants carry illuminated balloons; white for survivors, red in support and gold in memory of a lost loved one. VKC Refreshment LP employees also formed a team called VKC Get Fresh Crew to fundraise online. VKC ran contests between the stores and had prizes for top fundraiser and top store. This was a great way to build team morale and educate the community about LLS while having a fun competition and helping to save lives. This team was also present at both walks, passing out cookie cake slices to participants and their families.
From Right to Left: Tim Linderman, Maureen Collins, Angel Magana, Sam Agrawal, Mayor James Thompson, Joseph Bailey, Brij Agrawal, Rajiv Grover, Donna Molho, Rachele Ferraro, Harish Jajoo, Misty Hughes, Biju George, Siju Tom, and Sven Verbeet.
Ph: 718-353-8900 Fax: 718-353-8901 Toll Free:
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Guests present at the Ceremony were Sugarland Council Member Harish Jajoo, First Colony Mall Manager Donna Molho, VP Franchise Development Global Franchise Group (GFG) Tim Linderman.
About VKC Refreshment LP The VKC Refreshment LP operates 28 stores in the Great Houston area doing business as Great American Cookies, Pretzel Maker, and TCBY. These stores are located inside of the various Shopping Malls in and around Houston. About The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
From Right to Left: Brij Agrawal, Mayor James Thompson, Rachele Ferraro and Misty Hughes
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“As one of the proud sponsors of this fund raising event, the VKC Refreshment team is honored to invite Mayor Thompson to come and present the check of $50,385.40 to the LLSâ€?, said Rajiv Grover of VKC Refreshment LP. This is a great cause that beneďŹ ts the cancer research and helps support the cancer patients, said Brij Agrawal of VKC Refreshment LP. “The funds raised by VKC Refreshment LP will help save livesâ€?, said Mayor Thompson.
For more information, go to www. LightTheNight.org/txg and www. vkcgrp.com.
Patel
Contact
research is critical
The VKC Refreshment LP Team was represented by Brij Agrawal, Rajiv Grover, Sam Agrawal, Biju George, Siju Tom, Sven Verbeet, Joseph Baily, Angel Magana, and the proud employees of the Great American Cookies store located inside the First Colony Mall. The VKC Refreshment LP employees successfully demonstrated that even small change in the form of pennies and dollar bills can add up to make big change in the area of blood cancer research.
In 2013, LTN teams (including VKC Get Fresh Crew) raised $56 million worldwide for blood cancer research. Locally, the Walk raised over $1.1 million. Through LTN, anyone young and old can have maximum impact on the LLS mission to ďŹ nd cures and improve the quality of life for blood cancer patients and their families. As there is no means of preventing or early screening for blood cancer, funding research is critical. In 2013, LTN teams (including VKC Get Fresh Crew) raised $56 million worldwide for blood cancer research. Locally, the Walk raised over $1.1 million. Through LTN, anyone young and old can have maximum impact on the LLS mission to ďŹ nd cures and improve the quality of life for blood cancer patients and their families. As there is no means of preventing or early screening for blood cancer, funding
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
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VOICE OF ASIA 6
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
DIASPORA
VOICE OF ASIA 7
PIO executive, Ashok Varadhan appointed co-head of Goldman Sachs’ securities
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
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Houston Office: 11000 Richmond Ave., Ste: 300, Houston, TX 77042 Ashok Varadhan has been appointed co-head of the Goldman Sachs’ securities division. Reuters Idian-origin Ashok Varadhan has been appointed co-head of the Goldman Sachs’ securities division, the largest and most profitable of the global investment bank’s four units. Varadhan, 41, is currently the head of macro trading in Goldman’s Securities Division and will join Isabelle Ealet and Pablo Salame as co-head of the Securities Division. In an internal memo, Goldman’s Chief Executive Lloyd Blankfein yesterday said Varadhan has been an “effective voice on a number of firmwide, regional and divisional committees”, including the management committee, growth markets operating committee and firmwide risk committee. “As a long-tenured leader in the Securities Division, Ashok has demonstrated dedication to our clients and a deep understanding of our business,” Blankfein said. As co-head of the securities division, which generates the most revenue and profit
Preet Bharara’s office recovers .... Continued from page 1 In the JPMorgan Chase case, the office recovered $ 1.7 billion as part of a deferred prosecution agreement with the bank which agreed to pay the non-tax deductible penalty for its violations of the Bank Secrecy Act committed in connection with the Bernard Madoff multi-billion dollar Ponzi scheme. These funds would be used to compensate victims of the Madoff Ponzi Scheme. Another significant amount of penalty was levied on SAC Capital Advisors, that will pay $ 1.8 billion to settle charges of engaging in money laundering by commingling the illegal profits from insider trading with other assets, using the profits to promote additional insider trading, and transferring the profits with the assistance of financial institutions. In addition to the SAC forfeiture, in 2013 the office forfeited and collected in excess of $ 63 million from insider trading criminal prosecution and civil forfeitures actions, including the forfeiture of $ 53.8 million from Rajaratnam.
India ranks 140th in world press freedom index;.... The Paris-based media rights watchdog said, the countries that “pride themselves on being democracies and respecting the rule of law have not set an example, far from it.” “This has been the case in the US (46th), which fell 13 places, one of the most significant declines, amid increased efforts to track down whistleblowers and the sources of leaks,” the report said. “In the north of Sri Lanka (165th), the army reigns supreme, tolerating no challenge to the official vision of the pacification process in Tamil separatism’s former strongholds,” it said. Syria remained especially deadly for journalists last year, with RSF reporting nearly 130 media professionals killed in the country since its conflict began in March 2011. Source:PTI
for Goldman, Varadhan would build on Goldman’s client franchise across its fixed income, currency and commodities and equities businesses. A Duke University graduate, Varadhan joined Goldman Sachs in 1998 in Swaps Trading and after heading the dollar derivative trading, he ran North American interest rate products and became global head of foreign exchange in 2007. He was named managing director in 2000 and partner in 2002. He is the son of eminent Indian-American academician Srinivasa Varadhan, a Chennai native who is Professor of Mathematics at the Courant Institute of Mathematical Sciences at New York University.
The senior Varadhan was awarded the Abel Prize, considered equivalent to the Nobel prize and awarded for outstanding scientific work in the field of mathematics. The securities unit is the largest of Goldman’s four divisions and people who have co-headed the unit previously have gone on to assume top-ranking positions at the bank. It includes the bank’s fixedincome, currency and commodities operations as well as its equities unit. Varadhan serves as Vice Chairman of the US Treasury Borrowing Advisory Committee. He also serves on the Board of Directors of DUMAC, which manages Duke University’s endowment.
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VOICE OF ASIA 8
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Unique Bharatanatyam Dance Ballet on Sri Radha Rani
P
EARLAND - Global Organization for Divinity will present a Bharatanatyam classical dance ballet titled “Radhe‌Radhe‌-- A Story of Love for the Supremeâ€? on March 15, 2014 starting at 4:15 pm at the CA Nelson Auditorium located at 2337 N Galveston Ave, Pearland TX 77581.
for it. The production also brings together several dancers not only from the Houston area but also from other parts of the USA. Dancers who will participate in this production include Surabi Veeraragavan, Anu Nagasimha, Maya Iyer, Shubha Soman, Akila Raman, Nisha Gosar, Kavya Rajan, Roopa Nagarajan - all from the Houston area, Suwetha Kalyan from Dallas and Nrithi Subramanian from Minneapolis.
The presentation will be in commemoration of the fourth anniversary of the organization’s prayer house, Namadwaar, located in the Pearland/ Manvel area. The dance ballet will depict the divine love of Sri Radha Rani, who stands for the epitome of devotion to God, and whose love for Lord Krishna is held in high esteem even today by millions of devotees around the world. The performance, which is choreographed by well-known Houston danseuse Surabi Veeragavan, will weave an English narrative with the beautiful musical compositions of His Holiness Sri Sri Muralidhara Swamiji to speak of Sri Radha Rani’s love. This is a unique opportunity to experience Sri Radha – the One who does not easily reveal Herself – visually, through the words and anubhava of a mahatma. The avatara and greatness of Sri Radha - the only One who is capable of bestowing Krishna prema bhakti are portrayed in this enchanting dance performance.
This unique dance ballet is
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Uma Ranganathan, the music director, is a wonderful vocalist who learned under Dr. K. Vageesh of India and is currently under the tutelage of the
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The Namadwaar prayer house in Houston (Pearland/ Manvel area) is one of over 20 such Namadwaars around the world, and the only one in the USA, where the “Hare Rama‌ Hare Krishna‌â€? Mahamantra is continuously chanted. For more information about G.O.D. or Houston Namadwaar, visit
Well known Bharatanatyam dancer Surabi Veeragavan,
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For the ďŹ rst time in Houston, both the choreography and music direction for this production have been put together entirely by young, blossoming local artistes. Surabi Veeraragavan, the choreography director, is a talented dancer with several performances to her credit. She has learned Bharatanatyam under many accomplished teachers including the world-famous danseuse Ms. Chitra Vishveshvaran, and currently continues to evolve under distinguished
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FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
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LIFESTYLE
VOICE OF ASIA 11
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Vol. 27
No. 7 Friday, February 14, 2014
Section 2
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
Tel: 713-774-5140
Multi Talented Artist, Kartik Trivedi Scales New Heights
H
ouston city area Artist Kartik Trivedi was born in a small village, Lunsar, Dist.Wankaner, Gujarat State, where his father Shree Laxmishanker Nanjibhai Trivedi was a village school Head Master. Kartik has earned four Masters Degrees. He enjoys playing Piano and doing paintings. He plays Hindustani Classical music. Amazon.Com has published an album of his piano music ‘The Raga Impressions’. (2011) A small screen film’Eak Aur Bhavai Vesh’. Now you can see this film on YouTube. Kartik Trivedi has composed music for this film. Kartik Trivedi’s piano and classical violinist Beth Blackerbe’s performance can be seen at www.kartik Trivedi.us A mega film on the work and life of Indian Doctor Hargovind Trivedi, “Tryst with Destiny” is now under discussion for a production. Kartik Trivedi has been appointed as a music director for this film. This film will be shown in magor cinema houses all over India. A prestigious music festival in the area of Hindustani Classical Music organized by“Saptak” a music Collage in Ahmedabad, Gujarat state. Kartik Trivedi has been contacted for a solo Piano performance for upcoming 35th Annual Music Conference. He plans to go there.
Multi-talented artist Kartik Trivedi tells his own story (2013) Amazon. Com also has published an Art Book. Kartik Trivedi. Artist of All Generation (2011)
Kartik Trivedi and his friends have published an art book, My Story.. The Story of Blood, Sweat and Tears.
As a foot note, He had performed at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, New York City, NY, as concert
pianist on Saturday June 9th.1984 and his painting are in private Art Collections of Americana Presidents at White House Washington DC. The Buckingham Palace, London, UK. Late Indian Prime Ministers Shree Indira Gandhi and Shree Rajiv Gandhi and late French President François Mitterand, Paris, France.
Cover of Kartik Trivedi’s book.
Valentine’s Day Roses: The meaning behind flower colors
D
on’t write off the roses you may receive this Valentine’s Day as unoriginal.
didn’t know how to express it, pink roses would communicate the message for you.
There may be more to those roses than meets the eye – each color the romantic flower comes in, has a special meaning.
Yellow - If you are giving yellow roses to someone this Valentine’s Day, it probably means that you think of this person as someone who brings joy to your life and is a great friend; because that is exactly what the yellow rose represents.
According to the dedicated flower site ProFlowers.com, the following colors hold significant representation: Red - The most traditional color choice when it comes to roses, the red rose is a symbol of romantic love. Usually given in a long stem form, if you have someone you want to express your undying love for, stick with this color. Pink - Although not exactly red, the pink rose, the subdued color that it is, represents refinement, and is often given as a sign of high esteem or appreciation. So if there is someone that you’ve admired for a long time and
Orange - This color probably is not seen too often in rose form, and that is possibly a good thing because orange represents feelings of passion, desire and excitement when it comes to romance. If you are not feeling that in your relationship, perhaps it is beneficial that it is more difficult to randomly pick up a bouquet of orange roses. You don’t want the wrong message communicated. Lavender - Distinctive and beautiful, the lavender rose signifies enchantment
ASIANET
and is often taken as conveying love at first sight. So if you are a romantic at heart and love the stories of fairy tales, sweep that special someone off their feet by giving them a bouquet of lavender colored roses. So, now that you have all of the colorful meanings of the rose, get ready to pay a pretty penny. Why are roses so expensive? Sister station NewsNet 5 said CNN reported that during Valentine’s Day, one can expect to pay $73 on average for a bouquet of red roses. The rest of the year, expect to pay around $59. The expense is the result of importing the coveted flower. Long-stemmed roses are preferred during Valentine’s Day and forces growers to cut away rosebuds at the top of the stem so only one flower will grow.
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Long-stemmed roses are preferred during Valentine’s Day This limits the amount of flowers they can grow. That, along with the recovering from the demand during the holidays, puts a shortage on the rose and raises the premium. Seventy-three dollars may sound like a lot, but just be glad you are not cel-
ebrating in Thailand where one can expect to pay $487 for a premium bouquet of roses. If you don’t have that kind of cash, you could settle for a single rose at the bargain price of $45. Source: NewsNet5.com
VOICE OF ASIA 12
Friday, February 14, 2014
Young Life Section 2
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Tel: 713-774-5140
Helping Kids Succeed in Sewa holds College Career School by Taking Health Day January 31, 2014 Problems Out of the Equation
gist and Sewa Houston board member; Lizzette Diaz, Sales and Marketing Manager at Penta Communications; Waleed Elostaz, General Manager at Gillman Subaru SW; Cesar Espinosa, Executive Director of FIEL Houston; and Roland Gramajo, Guatemalan Community Organizer.
Memorial Hermann Program Wins National Hospital Charitable Service Award
‘Sewa College Career Day’:Back row L-R: Cindy Cantor (LINC paraprofessional), Teresa Corbett (LINC teacher), Waleed Elostaz (event speaker), Thuylieu Aligo (event speaker), Lizzette Diaz (event speaker), Roland Gramajo (event speaker), Aneel Bhimani (AmeriCorps VISTA). Second row L-R: Alexis Angelo (AmeriCorps VISTA), Cesar Espinosa (event speaker), Karen Abrego (event speaker), Kiran Bhatia (event speaker and Sewa AmeriCorps Supervisor). Front row L-R: Laura Frye (AmeriCorps VISTA), Li Shi (LINC Program Manager).
H
Asthma exacerbations, emergency room visits, and hospitalizations have been reduced 84 percent for children whose care is now managed by Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools. Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Hiji Washington at Memorial Hermann Elrod Health Center examines one of her patients. HOUSTON (Feb. 10, 2014) - Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools was among 10 programs from across the country named a Program of Excellence by the Hospital Charitable Service Awards, a national program sponsored by Jackson Healthcare. “Thanks to the strong partnership we have with our local school districts, Memorial Hermann Health System is able to have an amazing impact on the lives of thousands of children in our community,” said Chief Community Benefits Officer Carol Paret. “The connection between health and education is clear. Children, who feel well, are better prepared to attend class, sit, listen, and learn. Their future is brighter.” Memorial Hermann Community Benefit Corporation partners with three school districts, Houston - the largest in Texas, Pasadena, and Lamar Consolidated, for its Health Centers for Schools program designed to provide a “medical home” for uninsured and Medicaid children, k-12th grade. Fifty-eight percent of the children served in the Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools program do not have any type of health care coverage. The remaining 42 percent are children who will not obtain health care due to transportation issues, working parents unable to afford a day off, high private insurance deductibles, or simply a lack of
parental involvement. The Health Centers for Schools program offers access to primary medical care, dental care, mental health counseling, social service referral, and nutrition counseling at seven clinics. Each is staffed by a nurse practitioner/physician assistant, social worker, licensed vocational nurse, and receptionist with dietitian support and physician oversight provided. The centers are open year round, five days a week and serve students in the schools’ designated elementary, middle, and high school feeder patterns.
other programs. Jackson Healthcare also uses the awards to cultivate a community of charitable hospital programs that want to encourage and learn from one another, and establish best practices.
OUSTON (February 10, 2014) - On Friday, January 31st Sewa International AmeriCorps VISTAs helped plan, coordinate and facilitate a College Career Day for immigrant and refugee ninth graders at the Alief Independent School District Language Institute for Newcomers (LINC) program at the Hastings Annex. Sewa partnered with the AISD LINC program to make this event possible. Eight speakers from the community came out to speak to over 150 LINC students who have been in the United States for less than two years and speak a collective seventeen different languages. Speakers, from various ethnic and profes-
sional backgrounds, spoke to students about staying in school, working hard, going to college, and doing well in society. Speakers encouraged students to start actively thinking about their future goals and provided support for students to achieve the steps to reach these goals. This diverse group of bilingual speakers opened student minds to future professional and academic options. Many speakers explained their own personal and professional paths and the struggles they encountered, sharing stories that many students related to. Some of the community members joining Sewa International as speakers at this event were: Kiran Bhatia, retired psycholo-
Elostaz, a previous graduate from Alief stated “As a refugee myself I am very thankful for a program like LINC and am looking forward to working with this program in the future.” Abrego, a recent graduate from Alief, said “It is a blessing from God to be helping all of these students and I feel blessed! I want all these students to achieve their dreams and to be good examples for others, examples of success!” Espinosa commented “It is important for young people to see role models that they can relate to out in the community. That way they too can see that there are many things they can achieve.” This event, the first of its kind for Sewa to offer, was considered successful by the speakers, LINC staff, and Sewa VISTAs. Sewa International plans to hold similar events in the future to further serve this community of immigrant and refugee high school students. Sewa engages the Alief LINC students weekly through afterschool tutorials. To get involved with Sewa and programs impacting Alief LINC students please contact vista@sewausa.org.
The Hospital Charitable Services Awards recognized the Memorial Hermann Health Centers for Schools program for exceptional work in setting new standards for giving back to the community in sustainable ways. Each winning program was presented with a $10,000 investment toward its growth. “These initiatives are not alone in giving back to their communities,” said Charles R. Evans, chairman of the Hospital Charitable Service Awards program. “What makes them truly extraordinary is the impact they achieve through their commitment to serving others, and the outstanding ways they make substantial and caring contributions.” Jackson Healthcare instituted the Hospital Charitable Service Awards in 2010 to honor exemplary hospital-sponsored community programs, share their stories, and make them models for
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VOICE OF ASIA 13
BOLLYWOOD MASALA
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Friday, February 14, 2014
Section 2
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
Tel: 713-774-5140
Sachiin to play Aditya’s role in Sonam Kapoor to pair up with Telugu version of Aashiqui 2 Salman for Sooraj Barjatya’s film by Rammohan Rao Apparasu
A
ctor Sachiin Joshi is all set to entertain Telugu film lovers with the remake of Aditya Roy Kapur and Shraddha Kapoor starrer blockbuster film ‘Aashiqui 2. Sachiin Joshi will reprise the role played by Aditya Roy Kapur in the Hindi version. Producer Bhushan Kumar has given the remake rights of the film to Joshi’s production house.
“We are collaborating on this project. I will be supervising it
Sachiin Joshi while Sachin will be producing it under his home banner,” he said. Joshi has worked in Hindi films like ‘Aazaan’, ‘Mumbai Mirror’ and his recent release was ‘Jackpot’, starring Sunny
Leone, Naseeruddin Shah and others. “I made my entry as an actor through Telugu film. Now I am begining my second innings with a Telugu movie again.” saId Sachin.
Asha Bhosle to perform with Dutch Metropole Orchestra in May
A
sha, 80, will be performing with the hybrid orchestra in Amsterdam, The Hague and Paris on May 3, May 4 and May 8 respectively.
“We are working on the dates... 99 per cent we will de-
by Dibyojyoti Baksi
S
Asha Bhosle “Thank you to all of you for enjoying GIMA. My performance was a small tribute
to the genius of Pancham. How we all miss him...,” she tweeted. (Agencies).
SAB TV adds another key ‘Free-to-Air’ market with San Francisco New York, 31 Jan, 2014 Sony MSM Network is proud to announce the addition of San Francisco as the next key free-to-air territory for SAB TV through its tieup with KFTL TV28. SAB TV will be available on Channel 28.10. SAB TV a 24/7 South Asian television channel in the United States and India’s premier family comedy channel is already available on channel 23.4 in USA’s largest Designated Market Area (DMA) of the New York metro area and channel 44.4 in the fifth largest DMA of Dallas/Fortworth, TX, with a combined reach of over 10 million households. San Francisco, USA’s sixth largest DMA adds another 1.7 million households including key ethnic groups in the Bay Area. This new digital initiative makes SAB TV the first free-to-air South Asian channel with the largest reach in North America. Viewers can now enjoy SAB TV programs for free within the NYC, DFW and the Bay Area areas with no monthly subscription or fees. To access this free-to-air channel, viewers in the coverage area will need a low-cost UHF antenna hooked to their television sets that
M
umbai, Feb 10 (PT) Actress Sonam Kapoor is likely to reunite with superstar Salman Khan for Sooraj Barjatya’s upcoming film after her debut ‘Saawariya’.
cide about the leading lady in a day or two. Most likely, it is Sonam who is going to act in the film,” said a source from Rajshree productions. The makers of the film had apparently approached actress Deepika Padukone for the leading role but things did not ma-
terialise due to date issues. The film is likely to go on floors in June this year. Salman made a guest appearance as Sonam`s love interest in Sanjay Leela Bhansali directed `Saawariya` which marked the debut of both Sonam and Ranbir Kapoor in 2007. PTI.
Sonakshi Sinha’s Sambhar experience
“European followers: I’ll be performing on 3,4 & 8 may in Amsterdam, The Hague & Paris with the prestigious Dutch Metropole Orchestra,” she posted on Twitter. The singer recently paid tribute to her husband and music legend R D Burman during the Global Indian Music Academy Awards (GIMA) 2014.
Mumbai: Actress Sonam Kapoor is likely to reunite with superstar Salman Khan for Sooraj Barjatya`s upcoming film after her debut `Saawariya`.
are DTV-capable. UHF antennae are available at most electronic retail stores. SAB TV reinforces its brand message ‘Asli Mazaa SAB ke Saath Hai’ with a current programming line-up that includes a host of popular shows such as ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’’, ‘Baal Veer’, ‘Chidiya Ghar’, ‘Jeannie Aur Juju’, ‘Lapataganj’, ‘FIR’, “Pritam Pyaare Aur Woh, and other popular comedy shows. This light-hearted fare makes for an enjoyable family-viewing experience. KFTL’s General Manager, Ian Milne commented, “SAB TV is a strong addition to KFTL’s high quality line-up of programming reflecting the cultural diversity of the San Francisco / Oakland / San Jose community that we are so proud to serve.” Jaideep Janakiram, SVP International Business-Head of North America, said, “With the success of SAB TV’s free-to-air model in New York and Dallas and in line with our strategy to be a forerunner in distributing our programming to the widest audience possible, it gives us great pleasure to bring the best in entertainment – SAB TV to
the people of San Francisco who reside in the KFTL coverage area and to local advertisers who can now target the expanding South Asian audience in these markets”.
hooting in Rajasthan recently turned out to be a memorable experience for Sonakshi Sinha. The actor was filming scenes for her upcoming film, Tevar, in the Sambhar district of the state, where she spent time bonding with the locals and understanding their culture. An insider from the sets of the film, which also stars Arjun Kapoor, says, “Sonakshi spent time with the
“Whenever she shoots at any outdoor location, she makes it a point to learn about the people and their traditions. In Sambhar, she spoke to the ladies for quite some time. She even dressed up like them and had a
The insider explains, “She was very involved with them and also inquisitive about their lifestyle. It’s no wonder that she becomes like one of them and gets into the skin of her character so quickly.” (HT).
Witnesses from the crew believe that her bonding with the locals plays a big factor in her being able to adapt to her characters.
Arrested reality TV crew in Indian court
NEW DELHI - Three members of a television crew shooting top European reality TV series “Peking Express” have
appeared in court in eastern India after being arrested for possessing unauthorised satellite phones, police said Monday.
Presenter Stephane Rotenberg said Indian authorities were holding the other crew members at their hotel.
The trio -- from the Netherlands, Belgium and Britain -- were remanded in police custody for two days after being arrested on Saturday over the use of 22 unregistered satellite phones.
“We are stuck. There are armed guards at the hotel entrance,” he said on French radio.
“Peking Express” is a hit reality TV show that tracks eight couples as they backpack around Asia on a shoe-string budget. It was originally shown in the Netherlands and Belgium but has since appeared in 10 countries. Police said the crew were shooting for the French version of the show, broadcast on the M6 channel, and were working for Belgian production company Eccho Line.
“We’re not allowed to move, we don’t have our passports. It will get sorted out, but we don’t know when.” A total of 49 foreigners travelling near the border of India and Bhutan were detained and questioned on Saturday over the phones, which are considered a national security threat. “Three people heading the foreign reality TV show crew in Chalsa were arrested and produced before a court on Sunday,” Jawed Shamim, inspector general of police in the northern area of West Bengal state, told AFP. “Chief judicial magistrate of Jalpaiguri court remanded the three people in police custody for two days on Sunday,” he said.
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VOICE OF ASIA 14
Friday, February 14, 2014
Section 2
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
In US, ‘natural’ food may be anything but by Kerry SHERIDAN
“natural” claims at least some of the time, and nine percent said they always do.
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ASHINGTON, February 5, 2014 (AFP) - In the United States, pre-packaged foods loaded with artificial ingredients and chemicals can make it onto grocery store shelves boasting the label “natural.”
Lawsuits keep them ‘honest’ Despite the high volume of lawsuits, the matters often settle out of court and corporations avoid big payouts, said Gardner.
Why? Because in America, there is no definition of “natural.” This gray area has led consumer advocates to threaten lawsuit after lawsuit against big food giants, alleging that their claims are misleading and illegal. “There are just too damn many ‘natural’ lawsuits,” said lawyer Stephen Gardner of the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), estimating there have been around 50 in the past decade. “It only scratches the surfaces of the number of companies that are making these claims. We keep coming across them,” he said. Some lawsuits have been merely threatened by CSPI, and eventually settled out of court after the company agreed to change labeling. Others have been filed by private parties seeking class action payouts. The latest involves Kraft Foods, maker of Crystal Light powdered drink mixes which contain artificial sweeteners and colors, a texturizer called maltodextrin and a synthetic preservative called butylated hydroxyanisole. In January, CSPI notified Kraft of its intent to sue if the word “natural” continues to appear on products like Natural
“The FDA considers the term ‘natural’ to mean that nothing artificial or synthetic...” Lemonade and Natural Lemon Iced Tea. Gardner said talks with the company are ongoing, but given his experience -- he first sued Kraft over similar claims on its Capri Sun drinks in 2007 -- he expects Kraft to counter that the word “natural” relates to the flavor. “I am not aware of a lemonade flavor. I am aware of lemon,” Gardner said. Many consumers ‘natural’ claims
believe
Asked for comment, a Kraft spokeswoman told AFP that a federal judge in California recently dismissed a similar claim against Crystal Light. “Our products are clearly and accurately labeled with information that is both truthful and helpful for consumers,” spokeswoman Caroline Krajewski said in an email. Foods that claim to be “natural” but clearly are not can slip past authorities because the main US regulatory agency, the Food and Drug Administration, has not formally defined “natural.” However, the regulator has
sent several warning letters to companies in the past, FDA spokeswoman Theresa Eisenman told AFP in an email. “Although the FDA has not established a formal definition for the term ‘natural,’ we do have a longstanding policy concerning the use of ‘natural’ in food labeling,” she said. “The FDA considers the term ‘natural’ to mean that nothing artificial or synthetic (including all color additives regardless of source) has been included in, or has been added to, a food that would not normally be expected to be in the food.” The FDA has left Crystal Light alone, and consumer groups complain that regulators are not aggressive enough, leaving plenty of room for corporations to exploit wellmeaning shoppers who appear to be susceptible to packaging claims. According to the market research firm Nielsen, “natural” products produce over $22 billion in annual sales. A full 77 percent of US consumers polled said they believe
“We stop them, but they get to keep the money they stole from consumers by fraud,” he said. In some cases, a company relents to pressure from consumer groups but is sued again by private interests seeking a cash payout to people who bought the product. Such was the case with Ben and Jerry’s ice cream, which took the claim off 48 products in 2010 but has since faced a drawn out class-action lawsuit. Some companies have quietly dropped “natural” from their packages, including Naked Juice and Frito Lay chips, as the food industry faces thorny legal questions over genetically modified ingredients and common additives like corn syrup. In Gardner’s view, the lawsuits would stop if the FDA came up with a definition for “natural.” But Baylen Linnekin, executive director of the non-profit group Keep Food Legal, said more regulation is not the answer. “The idea that the FDA needs to define every word that has ever been used to refer to food is ludicrous,” said Linnekin. “The occasional lawsuit helps keep companies honest and that has always been the case.”
New stroke guidelines for women highlight risk factors like pregnancy, birth control, migraines
A statement by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association lays out for the first time a set of stroke prevention guidelines for doctors and their female patients.
by Tracy Miller / New York Daily News aking birth control pills can influence a woman’s risk of stroke. So can migraines and menopause.
T
Even though women die of stroke at a greater rate than men - it’s their third leading cause of death, compared to men’s fifth - many aren’t aware they have a unique set of risk factors. “If you are a woman, you share many of the same risk factors for stroke with men, but your risk is also influenced by hormones, reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth and other sex-related factors,” said Dr. Cheryl Bushnell, author of a new statement published in Stroke, a journal of the American Heart Association. The statement, issued Thursday by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association, lays out for the first time a set of stroke prevention guidelines for doctors and
their female patients. High blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking are stroke risk factors for both women and men. But other risk factors including migraine with aura, atrial fibrillation, diabetes, depression and emotional stress are more common in women. Pregnancy brings its own set of stroke risks. Women who have had preeclampsia - a high blood pressure condition during pregnancy - carry twice the risk of stroke and four times the risk of high blood pressure later in life. Because of this, women with a history of high blood pressure should consider taking a low-dose aspirin and a calcium supplement while pregnant, the guidelines state. Women should also be screened for high blood pressure before going on birth control pills, as that combination raises stroke risk.
And women’s overall risk goes up after their childbearing years, because menopause increases the risk of high blood pressure. Bushnell, who is associate professor of neurology and director of the Stroke Center at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, N.C., added that more studies need to be done in order to develop a stroke risk scoring system for women. The American Heart Association estimates 53.5% of new or recurrent strokes each year occur in women, and 55,000 more women than men die of stroke each year. However, stroke deaths overall are on the decline, which AHA experts attribute to fewer people smoking and a greater effort to control conditions like diabetes and hypertension. Women were once considered to be at lower risk for stroke than men because of a
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Texas Medicaid Expansion Under Affordable Health Care Act by:Sudhir Mathuria Nearly 500,000 Houstonarea adults would qualify for Medicaid if state leaders would expand the program under the Affordable Care Act, according to The Atlantic Cities website. The site, which covers worldwide urban design, transportation, planning, jobs and housing, found Houston was among the top five metro areas across the country with hundreds of thousands of uninsured adults living in states that haven’t expanded Medicaid. The data came from the Urban Institute a private, nonprofit organization that researches social and economic policy. Under the 2010 health care law, states could expand their Medicaid programs to cover people who earn up to 138 percent of federal poverty level. In Texas, Medicaid expansion would cover about 2 million people, according to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, a policy research organization. According to the article, uninsured adults living in these cities probably will remain uninsured because they’re too poor to qualify for coverage on the health insurance marketplace and they make too much to qualify for Medicaid. In Texas, an unemployed parent must make less than 12 percent of the federal poverty line to qualify for Medicaid. Adults between 100 percent of the poverty line and 138 percent are eligible to buy private insurance at subsidized rates. But if the state of Texas were expanding Medicaid to the full 138 percent threshold, in total more than half a million additional people in the Dallas/Fort Worth region alone would be covered under the public program. Instead, the region must hope that at least those adults just above the poverty line purchase subsidized private care instead. pause than they once were. Further understanding of how obesity and excess abdominal fat may affect stroke risk dif-
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These figures don’t include poor children, who are already covered. Under existing programs, many states exclude single adults without children from qualifying for Medicaid. That means the Medicaid expansion was likely to help two groups in particular: poor parents who are not quite poor enough, and poor adults without children. The resulting numbers are so large in Texas, Florida, and Georgia in part because current Medicaid laws there are among the least generous in the country. In Texas, for instance, an unemployed parent must make less than 12 % of the federal poverty line to qualify for Medicaid. Poor adults in states that have rejected the Medicaid expansion, in other words, stood to benefit from it the most. The Affordable Care Act promised a massive expansion of health care coverage for poor, uninsured adults. They would not have to sort through private plan options on the various exchange websites. They would not have to figure out federal subsidies, or find the money to pay for premiums that the subsidies would not cover. Time is running out. Are you covered? Call Sudhir Mathuria to select right plan for you. ferently in the two sexes could give researchers more insight into stroke prevention, the report notes.
Women face higher risk of stroke than men
W
ASHINGTON, February 6, 2014 (AFP) - Women face a higher risk of stroke than men, particularly due to high blood pressure disorders in pregnancy and other hormonal factors, US doctors said Thursday. The warning was contained in new guidelines for preventing stroke, issued by the American Heart Association and for the first time aimed specifically at women, who are more likely to die of strokes than men. Women’s unique vulnerabilities include common pregnancy complications, use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, migraines and heart problems, said the guidelines. “If you are a woman, you share many of the same risk factors for stroke with men,” said
Cheryl Bushnell, author of the new scientific statement published in the American Heart Association journal Stroke. Those shared risks include high blood pressure, smoking and diabetes. “But your risk is also influenced by hormones, reproductive health, pregnancy, childbirth and other sex-related factors,” said Bushnell, a neurologist and director of the Stroke Center at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in North Carolina. The guidelines give primary care doctors and obstetriciangynecologists recommendations on how best to screen and treat women at risk for stroke. They include rigorous evaluation of any women who have experienced preeclampsia, a dangerous, high blood pressure
pregnancy condition which can double a woman’s stroke risk. Doctors should consider prescribing low dose aspirin or other medications as needed to women who ever had high blood pressure during pregnancy. Women of reproductive age should be screened for high blood pressure before being given birth control pills, and should be reminded not to smoke. Older women should be screened for heart beat irregularities known as atrial fibrillation, as this can boost a women’s risk of stroke fivefold after age 75. Nearly 800,000 strokes occur each year in the United States. More than half are among women, and 60 percent of stroke deaths occur in women.
Chemical From Bread by CANDICE CHOI NEW YORK (AP) — Subway says it’s in the process of removing a chemical from its bread as part of an ongoing effort to improve its recipes. The announcement comes after a popular food blogger launched a petition this week asking the sandwich chain to stop using the ingredient, called azodicarbonamide. A representative for Subway says the change was underway before the petition was launched, but did not immediately provide details on when it started or when it would be complete. “The complete conversion to have this product out of the bread will be done soon,” Subway said in a statement, without providing further details. Vani Hari, who runs Food-
Babe.com, has targeted other food companies including Kraft and Chick-fil-A for the chemicals in their products. In the latest petition targeting Subway, Hari noted that the azodicarbonamide used in its bread “as a bleaching agent” is also used to make yoga mats and shoe rubber. The petition noted that Subway doesn’t use the ingredient in its breads in Europe, Australia or other parts of the world. Although the ingredient is used in other food products, Hari said she focused on Subway because of the healthy image it tries to project. Subway has endorsement deals with Olympic athletes. “This is not eating fresh!” Hari’s petition said. On Tuesday, Subway’s Face-
book page was filled with comments regarding the chemical. As Americans pay closer attention to what they eat, food companies have worked to market their products as natural. But companies have also come under growing pressure to remove chemicals people find questionable. That pressure has been heightened by consumers’ ability to voice and share their concerns online. Last year, for instance, PepsiCo said it would remove an ingredient that had been linked to a flame retardant from its Gatorade drinks. PepsiCo also said its decision was not a response to an online petition that had called for it to remove the ingredient. Subway, which is privately held, says it has more than 41,000 locations worldwide. It is based in Milford, Conn.
VOICE OF ASIA 15
TECH & SCIENCE
Squawk! Flappy Bird fakes are hatching Android malware
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
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Security firms have found Flappy Bird-like applications running malware in a host of third-party Android app marketplaces.
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lappy Bird’s takedown by its creator has given malware creators a new outlet to exploit unsuspecting users. According to security firm Sophos, it has discovered several applications claiming to be Flappy Bird in third-party Android app marketplaces. The trouble, however, is that the games in some cases contain malware and in others force users to send a text message to a given number, effectively giving the malware creators all they need to potentially exploit users. Another security firm, Trend Micro, also chimed in on the issue, saying that it has discovered “a bunch of fake Android Flappy Bird apps spreading online.” Every one of those it has discovered so far are “apps that send messages to premium numbers, thus causing unwanted changes to victims’ phone billing statements.” Flappy Bird has become a hot-button issue in the mobile world after the game soared to popularity and was subsequently taken down by its creator, Doug
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The country’s first moon rover “could not be restored to full function”, the state-owned China News Service said in a brief report, after the landmark mission ran into mechanical problems last month. The Jade Rabbit, or Yutu in Chinese, was deployed on the moon’s surface on December 15 and was a huge source of pride in China, only the third country to complete a lunar rover mission after the United States and the former Soviet Union. The landing was a key step forward in Beijing’s ambitious military-run space programme, which include plans for a permanent orbiting station by 2020 and eventually sending a human to the moon. The silver rover experienced a “mechanical control abnormality” late January due to “the complicated lunar surface environment”, according to the official Xinhua news agency, and was unable to function since then. Condolences poured in on Weibo, China’s Twitter-like service, where Internet users mourned the demise of the rover, China News Service said in its brief report titled “Loss of lunar rover”. The Jade Rabbit rover had sent back its first pictures from the moon, and officials lauded the first lunar soft landing in nearly four decades as a step forward for “mankind as a whole”. “Exploration of outer space is an unremitting pursuit of mankind,” China’s space agency, the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defence (SASTIND) said after the rover was deployed on the moon. The mission reflects “the new glory of China to scale the peaks in world science and technology areas,” it said, adding it was committed to exploring and using space “for peaceful purposes”. The lunar mission, which came a decade after China first sent an astronaut into space, was seen as a symbol of the country’s rising global stature and technological advancement, as well as the Communist Party’s success in reversing the fortunes of the once-impoverished nation. Beijing plans to establish a permanent space station by 2020 and eventually send a human to the moon. The potential to extract the moon’s resources has been touted as a key reason behind Beijing’s space programme, with the moon believed to hold uranium, titanium, and other mineral resources, as well as offering the possibility of solar power generation.
Shani
A look at a fake Flappy Bird, courtesy of Sophos. Nguyen. That was the opening malware creators needed, the security firms say, to take advantage of users who didn’t have a chance to try out the game and want to see what all the hype is about.
Both Trend Micro and Sophos said that users shouldn’t attempt to download anything calling itself Flappy Bird, since the original version is “dead.” They also warned users to “be wary of apps from alternative markets.”
China’s ‘Jade Rabbit’ lunar rover declared dead: media EIJING, February 12, 2014 (AFP) - China’s troubled Jade Rabbit lunar rover has died on the surface of the moon, state media reported Wednesday, in a major setback for the country’s ambitious space programme.
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VOICE OF ASIA 16
BUSINESS
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Friday, February 14, 2014
Section 2
Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com
Chick-fil-A to stop selling chicken raised on antibiotics by Ricardo Lopez, Los Angeles Times
C
hick-fil-A, the Georgia-based fast-food chain, said it would stop serving chicken raised on antibiotics within the next five years.
The company’s announcement was praised by public health groups. “Keep Antibiotics Working is happy to learn that Chickfil-A is taking this step to meet its customers demand for meat from animals raised without unnecessary antibiotics,” the group said in a statement. The privately held company has taken other actions to improve its ingredients. It announced last year it had removed yellow dye from its chicken soup. It’s also testing the removal of high fructose corn syrup from its dressings and sauces, artificial ingredients in its buns and TBHQ -- a preservative -- from their peanut oil. Food companies and other restaurant chains have taken steps to remove controversial ingredients from their products. Last week, Subway said it would that it would remove an ingredient used in the production of foamed plastics such as yoga mats and rubber-soled shoes from its bread.
Chrysler recalls 8,000 vans with acceleration problem NEW YORK, February 12, 2014 (AFP) - US automaker Chrysler is recalling about 8,000 large vans due to a problem with the acceleration pedal that can limit driver control and increase the chance of an accident. Chrysler, now part of Italian car giant Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, said the recall affects 7,935 Ram Promaster cargo vans manufactured between July 1, 2013 and December 10, 2013 and sold in the United States, according to the recall notice posted Wednesday. The accelerator can become stuck if pressed downward from an angle, Chrysler said in a notification to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “A stuck accelerator pedal can result in uncontrolled acceleration, increasing the risk of a crash,” the NHTSA said. Chrysler said it knew of no accidents or injuries potentially related to the problem. BE AHEAD OF THE GAME CALL US 713-774-5140 TO ADVERTISE ONLINE www.voiceofasiaonline.com
W
ASHINGTON Senators will vote Wednesday on a bill extending US borrowing authority with no strings attached, a sign lawmakers want to avert another paralyzing debt showdown.
Quick passage would mark a dramatic victory for President Barack Obama, who had demanded a “clean” extension of US borrowing authority -- one with no political riders or other legislation attached.
Chick-fil-A’s announcement follows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration action to phase out the nonmedical use of antibiotics on farm animals in an effort to combat growing human resistance to the crucial drugs.
Tassopoulos said the company, based in the Atlanta suburb of College Park, will begin posting quarterly updates to its website on their progress in 2015.
Senate to vote Wednesday to lift US debt ceiling
The measure, which raises the debt ceiling for the world’s largest economy until mid-March 2015, passed the House of Representatives Tuesday, and Senate leaders are proceeding with lightning speed to get the legislation on the books ahead of a snow storm threatening the US East Coast.
The restaurant chain, known for its chicken sandwiches and waffle fries, said the action is partly because of customers’ concerns about the use of antibiotics in raising livestock.
“A shift this significant will take some time, as it requires changes along every point of the supply chain -- from the hatchery to the processing plant,” said Tim Tassopoulos, executive vice president of operations of Chick- fil-A.
Tel: 713-774-5140
Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A said it would stop serving chicken raised on antibiotics. Above, a 2012 file photo shows customers lining up at a Laguna Niguel restaurant. (Don Bartletti/Los Angeles Times / August 1, 2012).
In recent years, Republicans led by House Speaker John Boehner have sought to link debt ceiling hikes to measures that slashed federal spending. The resulting congressional battles thrust the US government to
the brink of default, roiled international markets and culminated in a 16-day government shutdown last October. But with conservatives recoiling from various sweeteners floated by Boehner in recent weeks, and party leadership loathe to be blamed for another fiscal crisis, the speaker capitulated Tuesday and moved to raise the debt ceiling with no spending cuts attached. A Senate leadership aide said the chamber will vote at 1:45 pm (1845 GMT), beginning with a procedural measure that will require a 60-vote threshold in the 100-seat chamber. A vote on final passage would immediately follow, sending the bill to Obama’s desk for his signature. The $17.3 trillion debt cap was reached last Friday, but the US Treasury estimates February 27 as the deadline after which the government will not be able to pay all its bills unless the ceiling is raised.
FEATURE
VOICE OF ASIA 17
Pakistan’s child brides married off for ‘honour’ by Khurram Shahzad (AFP)
M
ADYAN — One sunny afternoon as she skipped home from school, Saneeda was accosted by her estranged father, who wanted to marry her to a man she’d never met to settle a debt of “honour”. She was five years old.
Young Pakistani girl, Saneeda, who escaped a forced marriage under a local custom of Swara, speaks to an AFP journalist in Madyan, Swat valley, in the country’s northwest, on December 12, 2013 (AFP/File, Aamir Qureshi)
In Saneeda’s home district of Swat, in the country’s northwest, the practice is known as “swara”.
this way is very rare.
“My father stopped me in the street and told me that he has given me in swara and soon will hand me over to a man who will be my husband,” Saneeda, wearing a golden shawl with red and purple embroidery, told AFP, her cheeks reddening in embarrassment. Her mother dismissed it at first, but the arrangement had been ordered by a jirga, a traditional tribal gathering, and the gravity of the situation soon became clear. “We initially thought they can’t take this girl away but then they increased pressure with every passing day to give her in swara,” Fazal Ahad, Saneeda’s maternal uncle, told AFP. Eventually Saneeda’s family got a court order protecting her. Police arrested her father and the jirga members who had decided to give her in swara. A lucky escape, but Saneeda, now aged seven, still faces discrimination and mockery.
(For week beginning Friday, February 14, 2014)
Hardik Vyas, Astrologer Cell : 832-298-9950
Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April
Offering young girls as brides in compensation to settle disputes persists in many areas of deeply conservative Pakistan.
Nine cases were registered in the area in 2013, up from just one in 2012. Rights groups say the true number is much higher.
Your Horoscope As per Indian Vedic Astrology the Moon sign is considered, in which every Rashi has control over certain letters, which are initials of your name. Whereas in Western system of Sun Sign, all the people born in one month belong to the same sign. For example, every year approximately around 21 of March to 20th April, the Sun is moving in the Aries Constellation. So all the people born in that month belong to the Sign of Aries. If you were born in between those two dates then you are a Aries born.
A few months earlier, Saneeda’s father Ali Ahmed had eloped with a girl from another valley. To avoid violent revenge from her family, he promised to give them his daughter and niece Sapna in marriage.
Government data show that it is on the rise in Swat, four years after an army operation ended the Taliban’s brutal two-year rule in the scenic valley once known as the “Switzerland of Pakistan”.
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
“There are many other cases of swara, but people in our area don’t go to police and court and don’t highlight such cases. We don’t take matters of our women to the court -- the victimised girls have to bear it all,” said Ahad. The authorities do not keep detailed data on swara, but Samar Minallah, an activist who made an acclaimed documentary on the practice, said she had identified at least 132 cases around Pakistan in 2012. The other girl given by Saneeda’s father, 16-year-old Sapna, had to abide by the jirga ruling and settled with the husband they chose for her. The custom and the code of silence that surrounds it is so strictly followed that AFP was unable to reach her to speak about her experience. Ahad said the nine Swara cases reported in Swat are just the tip of the iceberg, but victims were becoming increasingly willing to speak out. “People are slowly getting aware through media that this custom is an evil, so some of them have started reporting,” he said. Forced marriage under swara is against the law, but police say that even when a complaint is brought there is great reluctance among witnesses to give statements.
“Whenever I go to school, children taunt me and tell me that I have been given in swara and will be married to a man,” she said.
“In the cases of swara, people don’t provide evidence against each other, because they are from the same village and community,” Naveed Khan, a senior police official told AFP in Mingora, the district headquarter of Swat.
Saneeda was unsual in that her family challenged the jirga’s ruling. In Pakistan’s patriarchal society, where family reputation is paramount, airing the “dirty laundry” in public in
“In the single swara marriage case in 2012, all 12 accused were set free because there was lack of evidence against them. Nobody speaks up in such cases.”
Officers arrested 65 suspects in the nine swara cases in 2013, including Saneeda’s father, Khan said, but their fate rests with the courts. Women’s rights groups say the government needs to do more to crack down on swara. “There are more than 15 cases of Swara, which have been highlighted,” Tabassum Adnan Safi, the chair of a local women’s campaign group, told AFP. “We are working to make women aware of the evilness of this custom. Besides these awareness campaigns, we also protest against Swara and raise voice for the protection. “But getting evidence in such cases is no doubt a big challenge because nobody talks about it.” Minallah says that nothing will change until the police and prosecutors are prepared to challenge the authority of local elders -- a difficult task in areas where such traditional power structures are deeply entrenched. “An awareness has been created against swara, that is why there are more reported cases, but the authorities need to take strict action against jirgas and stop them violating the law,” she said. And there are those, even in the legal community, who defend the practice staunchly. “It is helpful in removing deadly enmities among scores of tribes, saves dozens of lives and brings peace among families,” Syed Kareem Shalman, a practising lawyer in Mingora, told AFP. “If a family, which gets a bride in Swara mistreats her, faces revenge from the family who give their daughter to resolve the dispute.”
You are full of ideas, not to mention vim and vigor. You may surprise everyone by becoming a bit of a chatterbox. Try to confine what you say to the work at hand. Not everyone has to know your personal business. You may be called on to supervise some people. If you are not used to being the boss, you could learn much through this experience. One cardinal rule is not to expect of anyone else what you would not expect of yourself. It is a point in your favor if you don’t exaggerate your accomplishments. You tend to get ahead by taking on more responsibility.
Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May You have to let go of something or someone. It will be clear to you, however, that the usefulness or viability of what you give up, has gone. You’ll be in the mood for romance, with spouse, a very special person who is always there for you. No tears or regrets, just be glad that whatever it was is now over. Because you are in overdrive, an emotional explosion could be a decisive and constructive action on a long-term work project that you are now determined to bring to a head and complete. Think before you act.
Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June Though your ambition may be keen, others could be in the same frame of mind as you. If an obvious power play on someone’s part disturbs you, act as if it has nothing to do with you. It doesn’t, really. The problem is that you may have seen it coming, and now that it has come to a head, you find yourself annoyed. Just keep moving steadily along. Do not push for any unscheduled meetings or conversations. You could lose it without meaning to. You may be called on for extra work at your job. You may also get a call from a friend who needs some emotional support.
Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Little bit of a conflict over your various responsibilities. A big project at work could keep you working after hours and your mate may not be too pleased at a break in the normal schedule. Perhaps they may not be as adaptable as you are. Smooth things out, try not to talk about money concerns, if possible. Better days are ahead. You are sharp as a tack, but try not to be too sharp. Watch what you say to co-workers, because you may offend someone. You rarely do that intentionally, but the flak you take from a small explosion could make you uncharacteristically sensitive.
Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August Share your creative ideas. Everyone will be fascinated with your conversations. Your showmanship & flair may be questioned by those in authority. Exhibit the benefits of the new venture. Peers may try to question your motives, respond with positive financial data. Collect & study the facts, you may be tested to remember, later. Don’t be too ready to accuse someone without knowing the facts, but you probably shouldn’t trust everything you hear. If you are selling something, you are likely to close the deals and get top dollar.
Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Try to Accept others misgivings, honestly. The attention you receive will be encouraging rather than distracting. Your judgments could play a big role in their lives. A high level of confidence will announce to others that you’re ready to get down to business. Communicate your intentions clearly from the very beginning. The secret to your success will lie in finding a compatible partner to bounce off of. If you continue to argue on every point, then you may need to look elsewhere.
Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct With new beginnings and a reconnection to the past, You could ruin your chances by using your most effective ammunition too early in the week. Rude or impulsive behavior is not easily excused. Regrets have a way of softening the hard edges. An old wound may be slow to heal. No one ever said it was going to be easy, but you know it’ll be worth it. Open your eyes to the reality that exists not what you perceive through your rose colored glasses. Look deeper and you will be able to make needed changes.
Scorpio (N,Y)23 Oct to 21 Nov You may connect with a new network of learning. Once you do, you’ll feel more confident in who you are. Volunteer work looks good on your resume, which can not only help others, but yourself, as well. By removing money from the equation, you allow yourself new avenues of exploration and expression. New friends can lead you to new avenues of social & professional exposure. Be yourself & you’ll be accepted & loved by all. Encourage others to pursue their talents. Community spirit might be upstaged by individuals who lacks rational.
Sagittarius (BH,F,DH,TH) 22 Nov to 21 Dec Opportunities for travel, romance & communications. Whether it be for business or for pleasure, take advantage of the situation before you. Set the standards, keep the flow positive & don’t try to preach your morals to others. Keep your private life private and your social life social. Your excess energy might put you in danger of saying or doing something inappropriate. Others may not be in a mood to have their limitations challenged.
Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan Put things into a better perspective. Accent is on using your personality to open new doors of opportunity. Your cycle is high. You need to be cautious about who you trust with your personal & financial matters. Time is on your side, so don’t rush any big decisions. Remember that a relationship is as much about friendship as it is about obligation. Use your imagination & you’ll come up the winner. Small details, errands and ‘minutia’ that MAY lead to misunderstandings, arguments and certainly disagreements are possible.
Aquarius (G,S,SH) 21 Jan to 19 Feb Time, schedules and your ability to have discipline in your life, This is the way to achieve your immediate goals. Talk to a trusted friend about their experiences. If possible, try to get an extension on your deadline. Hasty actions could be worse for you than not acting at all. If you have more time, try to devote it to getting it right. Someone close to you will disappoint you. There’s no point in pretending to be objective, but at least you can be fair with your feelings. Partners in an intense friendship have many ways to communicate.
Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March Gain valuable information, as You are a survivor. Try looking up in reference books or on the internet. Remind others of how inventive you can be when you have to be. Enjoy the learning and bring the light to those who share your ideas. Check security issues and viable solutions will come to you. Everything will seem to be going in the opposite direction from what you had anticipated. Instead of letting it get to you, look on the bright side and be dazzled by what you see. Quick thinking could save everything. Strategy will take over once you can no longer accept the way things are. It’s possible to make changes without causing damage. Some of your efforts may seem to have disastrous results and not only that ‘backfire’ with extra work, misunderstandings and launch you into ‘faceoffs’ , most likely because they could be struggling with ‘issues’ themselves.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
VOICE OF ASIA 18
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
RELIGIOUS INSTITUTES & ORGANIZATIONS OF HOUSTON - call Voice of Asia 713-774-5140 Sri Meenakshi Temple Prog:February 15th, Sat. 10.30 am : Masi Magam Sri Subramania an Skthivel Abhishekam. February 27th, Thursday 6:30 pm onwards: Maha Sivarathri - (midnight, 1:30, 3:00, 4:30 AM). Location: 17130 McLean Road Pearland, TX 77584 Contact: (281) 489-0358 Web: www.meenakshi.org
Ashirwad - A Blessing Temple Prog: Vedic Fair on Sat. Mar. 1, 2014. See ad on Pg 9 Regular prog :Sloka Classes for kids and teens. Location: Katy, Hwy 249 & Sugar Land. Contact: 281.995.0930/ 281.808.2159
Hare Krishna Dham (ISKCON) Prog: Everyday, 7 Aratis and bhoga offerings daily. Sunday Festival: 5.30 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. Location: 1320 West 34th St, Houston, TX 77018. Contact:281-433-1635/E-mail harekrishnadham@gmail.com Website: www.iskconhouston. org
Arsha Vidya Bharati Prog.:Sanskrit classes and special worship sessions for all ages Location: 2918 Renoir, Sugar Land, TX 77479 Contact: 281-606-5607 or AVB.Houston@gmail.com Web: https://sites.google.com/ site/avbtexas/classes
Arsha Vidya Satsanga
QR
Prog: Website: www.avshouston.org Contact: 713-412-2923 / Email: ArshaVidyaHou@gmail.com
Chinmaya Mission Prog: Location:10353 Synott Road, Sugar Land, TX77498. Phone: 832.541.0059. Website:www.chinmayahouston. org.
Cell: 713-874-4363 Zafarullah_Hanjra@hotmail.com www.Alislam.org
Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple
Dr. Ambedkar International Mission Inc. U.S.A
Prog: Sri Vishnu Sahasranama Stotra Parayanam: daily 6.30 p.m. Location:10098 Synott Road. Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: 281- 498-2344 Website: www.ashtalakshmi.org
Prog: Location: India House 8888 West Bellfort Avenue Houston, Texas 77031
Sri Saumyakasi Sivalaya
Vedanta Society of Greater Houston
Temple Hrs: 9 am to noon and 5 to 9 pm.;Sri Astalaksmi puja: 7 pm. Sri Laksmi Archana will be performed on request all day. Location:same as Chinmaya Mission. Website: www.saumyakasi.org;
Prog: Vedanta teachings Sundays at 10:30 AM Location: at 14809 Lindita Dr. Houston, TX -77083. Website: www.vedantahouston. org.
Hindu Temple of The Woodlands Location: 7601 S. Forest Gate Drive at Woodlands Parkway, Spring, TX 77382. Contact: info@woodlandshindutemple.org, 832-585-0001 Website: www. woodlandshindutemple.org.
VPSS Houston Location VPSS Vallabh Hall, 11715 Belfort Village Dr. Houston 77031. Contact:713-530-2900 Website:www.vpsshaveli.org
Ahmadiyya Muslim Community Baitus Samee Mosque Prog: Friday Prayer - 1:30 PM Children’s Classes | Interfaith meeting | Location: 1333 Spears Rd, Houston, TX 77067 Imam - Mohammed Zafarullah Contact : Work: 281-875-3400 |
ISSO Prog: Darshan daily from 7.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.; Aarti daily from 7.45 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Location: 10080 Synott Road, Sugar Land, TX 77478 Phone: 281-530-2565 Web:
Shri Satyanarayan Sai Puja Darshan Prog: Daily from 10:00 a.m. to 1:p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Every Thursday Abhishek Location: 16338 Kensington Dr, Ste 110, Sugar Land 77479. Phone: 713-933-8821 / 9359.
Gurdwara Sahib of SW Houston Prog: Sundays Dewan 10:00 11:00 a.m. 1:00 p.m. Langar Location:14811 Lindita Drive, Houston, TX 77083 Phone: 281-498-5200 Website: www.gurdwaraswh. com
Hindu Worship Society Prog: Open all days except Thursdays (by appt). Regular Puja and Prasad. Sunday Service 11:30 AM to 1:30 Location: 2223 Wirtcrest Lane Houston TX 77055.
Barsana Dham Houston Chapter Prog: Satsang every Sunday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Location: India House, 8888 West Belfort 77031 Phone: (713) 855-9818 for details Website: www.jkphouston.org Weekly Radio Program-1460 AM Saturdays 10-11 a.m.
Divinity Website: www.godivinity.org
Lakshmi Narayan Mandir Prog: Every Friday Satsangh from 7:30 pm to 9 pm. Bhajans and Devi Puja, Discourses. Location: 12530 Ann Louise Road, Houston, 77086. Phone: Contact Vishnu at (832) 309- 7181.
JVB Preksha Meditation Center Prog: Location: 14102 Schiller Road, Houston TX 77082 Phone: 281.596.9642
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Patanjali Yogpeeth Center Prog: Free Yoga Classes every Sat/Sun from 8 am to 9:30 am Location: Arya Samaj @Schiller Road. Contact: 281-579-9433. Websites: www.pyptusa.org
Jain Center of Houston Location: 3905 Arc St. Houston, TX 77063 Contact: 281-606-JAIN; Email: ecjsh@jain-houston.org Website:www.jain-houston.org
Durga Bari Society Prog: Sandhya Arati at 6:30 p.m.; Sunday: 9:00 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. Location: 13944 Schiller Road. Contact: 281-597-8100 Website:www.houstondurgabari. org
Gayatri Pariwar of Houston Prog: Sundays Satsang, BalSanskar Shala, from 11am to 1pm. Location: 5645 Hillcroft, Suite # 307, Houston, TX 77036. Website: http://www.gayatripariwarhouston.org/ “
Sri Guruvayurappan Temple Prog: Bhajans: Sat.7:00 -8:00 p.m.; Sundays 9:00 a.m.-1:00 a.m.Location: 1620 Ormandy Street, Houston, TX 77035 Contact: 713-729-8994
Govindaji Gaudiya Math
Prog: Satsang every Sunday evening from 5 - 7 p.m. Vedic heritage classes for kids 5-14. Location: 16628 Kieth Harrow blvd. Houston, TX 77084 Contact: 281-499-3347/281-4914114.
Sathya Sai Baba Centers Prog: Sundays from 3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at two locations Contact: (North) 832-418-3842 or (South) 281-788-4786. Website:www.saicenterofhouston.org
Telugu Christian Fellowship Prog; Every third Saturday 6:30 PM. Worship is in English Location: The Triumph Church, 10555 West Airport Boulevard, Stafford, TX 77477. Contact:713-301-6444 Website:
Brahma Kumaris Meditation Center Prog: Daily classes in Raja Yoga Meditation To register call or email. Contact:832-379-8888/ Email: houston@bktexas.com Website: bktexas.com
Bethesda Houston Tamil Church Prog: Sundays Tamil Worship: 5 – 7pm Sunday school : in English. Bethesda Family Fellowship: in English 10.30 am-12.30 pm Free Tutorial for all children Mondays & Wednesdays 5-6 pm. Ladies Bible Study: Thur 9 am. Location: 1092, Suite F&G, Stafford. Tex 77477 Tel:281-317-7331, 281-3177331.Website:bethesdahoustonta milchurch.org
VOICE OF ASIA GROUP To advertise, call:
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Heating & Cooling SAJ Heating & Cooling
Residential & Commercial Free estimates on Residential Repairs & New Equipment replacement Call Saji Mathew Ph: 832.633.4347
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VOICE OF ASIA 19
CLASSIFIEDS
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014
Have you been ABUSED, ATTACKED or INJURED?
Have you experienced a traumatic event such as:
M/WBE Suppliers Looking to expand our purchases from certified M/WBE baked goods ingredient suppliers to the food service industry. If qualified, please forward your contact info, product listing and a copy of your M/WBE certification to: Alan.Peters@aryzta.com
This is our Classifieds Section 713-774-5140 Sell anything!
If you are a woman between the ages of 18 and 65, you may be eligible to participate in a study of an investigational medication for PTSD conducted by the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center and the Mood and Anxiety Program at the Baylor College of Medicine. There is no cost for participation.
CALL 1-877-96-BCM-MOOD (226-6663), Visit www.bcm.edu/psychiatry/mood, or email us at mood@bcm.edu if you are interested in participating.
HINDI PRARTHANA
Do you need PRAYER? Do you need a MIRACLE in your life? Can we pray for the CHILDLESS couple?
READ DAILY! 15 - 30 minutes of reading daily helps your brain focus better. Grab a novel! A Community message from Voice of Asia Group
From Garage Sales to Selling a Business Call us. Nothing is too trivial.
Seeking Bride Friends matrimonial invite for Gujarati Vaishnav Young Man age 37, height 5’4” UT Grad, successfully self-employed, born and raised US Citizen. Strong family values, well cultured, understanding, good social skills, generous, kind, pleasant personality and a positive outlook on life. Seeking a kindhearted young lady from the San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, and Houston areas, ONLY. Send bio and photo to: GreatMatrimony37@gmail.com Or call: (713) 204-8116 or (713) 204-8110
mood@bcm.edu
When you find some time, READ!
Job Opportunity Soil and Concrete Technician wanted. No experience Required. Call 281-407-6335 or email resume to: info@texasgeotechnical.com
• Rape • Physical Assault • Child Abuse • A severe car accident • War • Natural distaster Does this continue to affect you with: • Upsetting memories • Irritability • Bad dreams or difficulty sleeping • Trouble concentrating • Lack of Interest in activities.
Contact Us 832-773-4457 today!
Employee Needed Employee for Liquor Store needed. Part time position. Store at North Houston, 1960 and I-45. Work from 3 PM - 9 PM.
Call: 832-419-4545
(call between 10 am - 7 pm)
Broadcast Technology/ Engineering Intern KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid BROADCAST TECHNOLOGY/ENGINEERING INTERNSHIP for the upcoming semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled undergrad college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/ media field and must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily work and operations of a major market, television station. As an intern you will gain firsthand experience in a broadcast technical environment. You will gain experience in networking and computer hardware/software troubleshooting and support as well as learning how to maintain broadcast systems such as automation, news editing systems and live news vans. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. Additionally, applicants must be able to work at least one day per week and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and may include some weekend and early morning and evening hours. All interested applicants must apply online at www.disneycareers. com, Job Req #163963BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining other internships, degrees earned, work experience, related clubs and organizations, current major course of study, expected graduation date and extracurricular activities. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D.
Community Affairs Intern Read Voice of Asia for Community News
KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid COMMUNITY AFFAIRS INTERNSHIP for the upcoming semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled undergraduate college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/media field and must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily work and operations of a major market, television station. As an intern you will attend help in the production of community affairs shows, including scheduling of guests, help gathering and editing video, assist with community drives, forums and outreach. Each area requires significant planning, scheduling and execution. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. Additionally, applicants must be able to work at least one day per week and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and may include some weekend and early morning and evening hours. All interested applicants must apply online at www.disneycareers.com, Job Req #163789BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining other internships, degrees earned, work experience, related clubs and organizations, current major course of study, expected graduation date and extracurricular activities. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D.
The value of money is taught early! Earn Smart! Spend Wisely! A community message from Voice of Asia Group
News/ Programming Intern
Reliable Caretaker Needed A family needs a reliable Caretaker full time to take care of home, cook meals - breakfast, lunch and dinner, do some light house work, weekdays and weekends. Timings are: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM daily, flexible some evenings. Must be able to cook South and North Indian dishes. Please have a few references. Long term employment preferred.
I am sure you’ve heard of this saying: “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure!” It’s true...
Organize your own Garage Sale! Get rid of the clutter!
Business card size or this size ad $25 / week. To get started,
$ 25/week
KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid NEWS or PROGRAMMING INTERNSHIP for the upcoming semester. Internships are available to undergrads currently enrolled college students in their junior or senior year pursuing careers in the television/media field and must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns will have an opportunity to observe and participate in the daily work and operations of a major market, television station. As an intern you will attend production meetings, assist the assignment desk, research news topics, view and log tapes, transcribe interviews and edit video along with other duties. Interns also will also have an opportunity to, on occasion, travel with reporters and field crews for stories and live remotes. Applicants must be currently enrolled in college and supply written verification of eligibility to receive academic credit for the internship at the start of the internship. Additionally, applicants must be able to work at least one day per week and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and will include some weekend and early morning and evening hours. All interested applicants must apply online at www.disneycareers.com, Job Req 163791BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining other internships, degrees earned, work experience, related clubs and organizations, current major course of study, expected graduation date and extracurricular activities. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D.
Weather Department Intern
For details, call: 832-419-7537
KTRK-TV, the ABC Owned station located in Houston, TX is accepting applications for a paid WEATHER DEPARTMENT INTERNSHIP for the summer semester. Internships are available to currently enrolled undergrad college students in their junior or senior year pursuing a career in meteorology or related field with intent on pursuing a career in broadcast meteorology. Student must receive college credit for the internship. The internship program is designed to provide students with an on-site educational experience that complements their academic studies. Interns track severe weather and developing tropical cyclones, monitor social media and interact with the public under the direction of the weather department. As an intern you will gain introductory hands-on experience with state-of-the-art weather technology, such
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to work at least two days per week and the hours may vary depending on scheduling and may include some weekend and early morning and evening hours. All interested applicants must apply online at www.disneycareers.com, Job Req
Call 713-774-5140
#139315BR. Please upload a cover letter, your resume outlining other internships, degrees earned, work experience, related clubs and organizations, current major course of study, expected graduation date and extracurricular activities. No phone calls please. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/V/D.
VOICE OF ASIA 20
FRIDAY, February 14, 2014