Voice of Asia Feb 6 2015

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FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

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Vol. 28 No. 6 Friday, February 6, 2015 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

ICC celebrates India’s 66th Republic Day - Honors leaders for ‘Synergy US-India Relations’

Hon. Consul General P. Harish who received Distinguished Recognition on the occasion seen presenting the Award to Mr. Jagdip Ahluwalia, Executive Director of IACCGH as Mrs. Ahluwalia and other from L-R: Swapan Dhairyawan, Col Raj Bhala, Harshad Patel, and ICC President Charlie Patel (far right) look on. Photos by Raghu/Mili Thakkar, Image N Motion Studio.

Abeezar Tyebji, CEO, Shipcom Wireless seen speaking to the audience after receiving the Award from Hon. Consul General of India, Houston, P. Harish (left) on India’s 66th Republic Day Celebrations held at Stafford Texas. Read report on Page 8

TiE Houston Hosts Charter Member Dinner - Invites CMs to TiECon 2015!

by Shobana Muratee

T

iE Houston had an outstandingly year of events to present at their annual Charter Member Dinner held on January 23, 2015 at the McCormick & Schmicks at Uptown Park where nearly 71 members attended.

“We are here tonight to celebrate a strong, sustainable and growing organization which could not have been possible without the outstanding support of our TiE Houston community of Charter Members (CMs), Corporate members, Sponsors, Mentors, Speakers, and Volunteers,” said Aruna Viswanathan, TiE Houston President, welcoming the Houston’s Charter Members, guests and sponsors. She later gave a detailed 2014 recap aided by PowerPoint presentation.

L to R: Phillipe Flitchy, Dr. Atul Varadhachary, Kyle Campbell, Sehar Javed, Pat Robertson, Aruna Viswanathan, Dr. Arun Pasrija, Vish Bhaskaran, Dr. Roopa Gir, Imtiaz Munshi, Shri Iyer and Hall Martin. Photo by SM.

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In 2014, Viswanathan reported that TiE Houston held over 26 successful events. The three keynotes included: Michael Holthouse, Chairman at Holthouse Foundation for Kids “Building a National Social Franchise”, Charter

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For the first time, TiE-Houston had a significant presence at the May TiEcon 2014, due to the efforts of, Sammy Haroon (past TiE Houston Board Member).

Over 300 people attended in Santa Clara and it was sponsored exclusively by Baker Hughes, Inc. Several TiE Houston Members traveled to California for the event, which will be held again in May 2015.

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OP-ED/COMMENTARY/ANALYSIS

VOICE OF ASIA 2

O

n January 30, the U.S. State of Ohio postponed all the seven executions scheduled for 2015 to procure a different anaesthetic drug and develop a new protocol to execute death row convicts using lethal injection.

The announcement came three weeks after the State decided not to use a controversial anaesthetic, Midazolam, and two days after the U.S. Supreme Court stayed the execution of three Oklahoma death row convicts using the same drug.

Midazolam is used to put a convict to sleep before other drugs are injected to stop the heart. Though the intent behind using the anaesthetic is to reduce pain when another injected drug causes death, the outcome has been nothing but disastrous. Last year, the unproven anaesthetic failed to completely sedate prisoners,

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resulting in a few prolonged and possibly excruciatingly painful executions in Ohio and Arizona. For instance, in January last year, it took 26 long minutes of “choking, gasping and writhing” before a convict in Ohio died in a bungled execution. That the experimental anaesthetic drug was chosen not on the basis of scientific merit but information available on an unreliable Internet website, reveals the downright callousness involved and the mindless pursuit of executions. In 2011, when European countries banned the export of sodium thiopental and other anaesthetic drugs used in executions and a sole American manufacturer halted sodium thiopental production, many

States turned to compounding pharmacies, which are beyond the purview of the Food and Drug Administration, for the supply of untested and unreliable drugs.

There is no scientific basis to support the effectiveness of lethal injections using different drugs with randomly chosen dosages and questionable quality and administered using varied protocols: Ohio has a two-drug protocol while Oklahoma has a three-drug regimen. Another vital issue that makes the method highly repugnant is the failure to administer the drugs into a vein. Such a fiasco in April 2014 led to a convict in Oklahoma remaining alive for 43 minutes, often “writhing in

Measles is not only deadly, it is robust. It lives for up to two hours in the airspace of a contaminated person, and it is so contagious that 90 percent of those who haven’t been vaccinated are likely to become infected if they breathe the same air or touch a common surface.

policy, which permitted 9,000 children without immunization to attend school last year.

Rep. Frank Pallone (D-6th) is wisely calling for hearings on the current outbreak, but given that there is no federal vaccination law, this should also be addressed by our state legislature. At the top of the agenda should be a reevaluation of New Jersey’s extremely liberal exemption

The question that must be asked, at least with a potential emergency looming, is whether their continued attendance puts others at risk, including the infant who Children generally do not receive their first MMR inoculation for measles until 12 to 15 months might visit a (Premium Health News Service) school or play area, or anyone else who cannot been vaccinated because It’s time for a more serious Because by now, these of severe allergies, weakened discussion about the rights of parents should have learned immune systems, or preg- those who may interact with that virus is being kept alive nancy. those who may carry the vi- by the unvaccinated. And it rus. is the most reckless parenThe initial debate was tal judgment to send a child inane. It was spawned by our If some families want to without immunization to governor’s brain cramp about use the philosophical or re- school or other public areas, whether a parent’s individual ligious exemptions, so be it. and expose other children to choice should outweigh the They should, however, be re- a deadly disease. SOURCE: public health at large, and by quired to home-school their Star-Ledger Editorial pubnow everyone knows the an- children. lished on February 04, 2015 swer: No.

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pain” and “breathing heavily” before dying of a heart attack. The botched executions clearly demonstrate that the punishment very often ends up being disproportionate to the crime, thus violating the Eighth Amendment ban on cruel and unusual punishment.

If capital punishment by itself is abhorrent and has no place in a modern society, executing prisoners using lethal injections is outright barbaric. The U.S. has the dubious distinction of being a country with one of the largest number of executions in the world. Ironically, 13 States account for almost all the executions; 18 States and the District of Columbia have repealed it.

SOURCE: The Hindu

Children without measles vaccination should be home schooled

But it would be much easier just to formulate a lucid, binding policy decision about measles vaccine, now that we’re in the midst of a 14-state outbreak that could easily spill over our border soon.

- The Publisher

Cruel and unusual

here is no reason for this to turn into a pitchfork-and-torches spectacle or a medieval morality play, so let us first reiterate a scientific truth:

So any careful parent isn’t being paranoid in their belief that the days of taking any infant into a public place is over -- not when a child’s first MMR jab comes at 12 months, anyway.

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

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

Soma Balasubramanian

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VOICE OF ASIA 3

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Second Front Page

Friday, February 6, 2015 • www.voiceofasiaonline.com • Page 3 • Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com • Tel: 713-774-5140

India House hosts University of Houston’s Prospective Students Evening

I

ndia House was proud to co-sponsor its first event in collaboration with University of Houston for prospective students on January 29, 2015. The event was very well attended by more than 250 students and parents. India House President, Mr. Jugal Malani welcomed everyone and thanked the UH team for their teamwork. He encouraged students to discover what UH had to offer and to pursue their dreams with courage and conviction.

Dr. Richard Walker served as the emcee and introduced Chancellor and President of University of Houston – Dr. Renu Khator, who was the key event speaker for this event.

Dr. Khator remarked on the excitement occurring on the University of Houston campus and the 300 degree programs that UH offers through its 12 academic colleges on campus— including programs leading to professional degrees in law, optometry, and pharmacy. Jeff Fuller provided a detailed overview of academic programs, points of pride, enrollment updates, campus life and university scholarships. India House distributed four door prizes.

There were three break-out sessions that were held after the speaker presentations and they were all very educational; Anushah Ahmed covered the financial aid process and identified solutions to help finance a college education. Jeff Fuller covered the admission process with a step by step guide on

Jeff Fuller saddressing the audience. Photo(s) credit Biajy Dixit. what is needed to apply and be admitted. University of Houston academic colleges were set up to cover detailed information on their programs and related interest areas. Representatives from the division of student affairs and enrollment services were available to share aspects of student’s lives outside the classroom. These sessions gave students the opportunity to personally meet with the panel of experts and get all their questions answered.

It was a great opportunity for the students to meet with the UH Chancellor and staff on a personal basis and get the know-how of the admissions process, the majors they of-

Keynote Speaker, Dr. Renu Khator, UH Chancellor and President

fer, scholarships, financial aid and much more. The students left inspired and encouraged to pursue their career paths and knowing they had many options to choose from University of Houston many degree programs. India house believes that education is empowering and will strive to bring many more opportunities and programs such as these to improve our children’s future prospects.

For more information on India House programs and activities please visit www.indiahouseinc.org or contact vipin@ indiahouseinc.org or 713-9291906. Like us on https://www. facebook.com/indiahouse

L-R: Dr. Richard Walker, Mr. Vipin Kumar, India House GM. Dr. Renu Khator, and Mr. Jugal Malani, India House President.

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

It is not illegal to tell someone you will sue Q. I am a small contractor and have not been paid for several home repair jobs with the same client. I have repeatedly asked to be paid and she simply refuses to respond.

I recently sent her a certified letter with a copy of my invoices and told her if I didn’t receive payment I would file a claim in Justice Court. She replied by certified mail that it is illegal to threaten to sue someone, and that because she is handicapped I can’t force her to pay. What are my rights?

A. First, the fact that someone is handicapped does not affect his or her contractual liability. If she agreed to pay for the work, she has a legal obligation to pay and can be sued in the event she does not pay.

It also is not illegal to tell someone that if they don’t pay you will file a lawsuit.

There is a state law that protects consumers against certain wrongful threats by debt collectors, but they cover things like threatening to take legal action you cannot take, threatening to have someone arrested, or threatening to use violence to collect. This law expressly does not cover “threatening to institute civil lawsuits or other judicial proceedings to collect a consumer debt.”

Q. My landlord told me it was illegal for him to use my security deposit for the last month’s rent. Is it?

A. It is not illegal, but he would be doing you a big favor. Texas law makes a landlord who wrongfully withholds your security deposit liable for up to three times the amount of the deposit plus an additional $500. But the law is a two way street. If you force the landlord to use the security deposit as the last month’s rent, you may be responsible to the landlord for three times the deposit plus $500. The deposit is for security and you cannot force the landlord to use it for rent. There is no law, however, prohibiting you and your landlord from agreeing to use the deposit as the last month’s rent. If he does agree, get it in writing.

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

MahaVastu to open its international center in Houston

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OUSTON, (Feb, 2015): Renowned worldwide for giving effective and scientific Vastu solutions, MahaVastu Corporation which visions to set up 240 centres across the globe in the near future is going to launch its latest international centre in Houston, USA on February 5. The inauguration will be done by VastuShastri Khushdeep Bansal, Chinmaya Mission Houston Acharya Gaurang Nanavati, MahaVastu Global Operations Head Ar. Sapna Sehgal and CEO of MahaVastu Houston Centre Chetan Patel at Holiday Inn -Westchase.

After launching successfully in the financial capital of IndiaMumbai, Chhatisgarh’s capital city – Raipur, city of joy- Kolkata and San Ramon-California, MahaVastu is going to launch its new centre in Houston which is the biggest industrial city of America. MahaVastu has taken a big step towards fulfilment of its mission of spreading more money, love, prosperity and happiness in every home of Houston. Vastu Shastra is an ancient Indian art of creating happiness in buildings, and has always been in huge demand in Texas.

Citing the rising interest of

Q. My husband and I separated almost twenty years ago. I have not heard from him since, and I am not even sure where he now lives. I now want to remarry. Am I divorced? How long do you need to be separated to be divorced?

people in Vastu, Chetan Patel, CEO - MahaVastu Houston Centre says that he has decided to open MahaVastu centre due to its USP of delivering immediate and successful results sans demolition. Now, through scientific Vastu of MahaVastu, people of Houston will get the most effective Vastu solutions and reap amazing benefits of Vastu without making demolitions in their beautiful Homes.

Informing about the 2-days Vastu Foundation Course, Mr.Patel says that the MahaVastu Houston centre will soon host a 2-day course where one will get to learn how to select a Vastu compliant new Home, ideal color themes as per Vastu, beneficial application of Pyramids, Vastu remedies and books. Apart from these, they will also get practical training on how to see directions with magnetic compass. These will help the people of Texas to live with more money, love and happiness.

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A. Simply being separated does not result in a divorce. As far as the law is concerned, you and your husband are still married. I suggest you promptly speak with a family law attorney about filing for a divorce. You can do this even if you are not sure where he is living.

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FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Sewa International Hosts Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

Umesh Kapur Sewa Board member recognizing Anshuman Desai

S

ewa International is a grass root nonprofit organization inspired by the noble Hindu tradition of service before self, working for promoting voluntarism internationally especially among children, youth, women and energetic senior citizens; building an international network of notfor-profit organizations; promoting philanthropy from the grassroots level to the corporate sector.

Sewa has 38 chapters in America spanning 20 Metro areas and Globally Sewa is active in 17 countries. We in Sewa Houston pride ourselves in serving the Houston community actively since 2008.

Sewa is primarily a volunteer based organization and what this means is that this organization is driven by volunteers.

Every year, Sewa International holds its annual Volunteer Appreciation dinner for its volunteers and its a chance for Sewa to acknowledge its wonderful group of volunteers that are serving silently and selflessly in the background.

Sewa has five different teams and volunteer and team leaders from all these teams were recognized.

Sewa Family Services ,Sewa Refugee Youth empowerment ,Sewa Refugee Adult empowerment programs and Sewa

MC and Intern Utsav Nigam recognized by Ramesh Bhutada.

Local Volunteering events along with the Sewa Fundraising team.

Dinesh Shah Sewa board member with Dr Sanghmitra Misra of Texas Children’s mobile unit.

On this evening Sewa volunteers and other supporting organizations were given recognition plaques and Cer-

Sewa Team

tificates for their outstanding contributions. In the past year Sewa Houston engaged with more than 200 volunteers who collectively contributed more than 1000 hours of service. We hope that events like these will highlight the selfless service of all these volunteers as well as inspire more people on the fringes to join this movement of Sewa.

Award recipients with the Sewa Team

If you are interested in volunteering with Sewa international or International and Local Internship opportunities for high school and college students please reach out.

For more information visit : http://www.sewausa.org/

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VOICE OF ASIA 6

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

TiE Houston Hosts Charter Member Dinner - Invites CMs to TiECon 2015! continue her focus on increasing the Houston chapter’s visibility amongst the TiE Network by participating in regional activities like TiE Con Silicon Valley and hosting investment webinars like the TiE Texas Funding Forum, which was attended

by investors across several TiE Chapters. “Further emphasis has been on providing more support for the community of entrepreneurs by working collaboratively with local startup incubators, accelerators, universities, and co-networking spaces to co-host

workshops and events targeted at the broader community,” she added.

(With inputs from Ms. Sehar Javed, TiE Houston, Executive Director).

The MD Anderson team: Sponsors of TiE Charter Member Dinner Continued from Page 1

E

arlier in March, TiE Houston held a youth workshop for Lemonade Day, a national youth entrepreneurship program that teaches entrepreneurship skills to kids at an early age. Several teams went on to create lemonade stands in May. Cochairs Lisette Galindo and Kyle Campbell led these efforts, which in August culminated with a group of these outstanding young entrepreneurs sharing their proceeds by presenting a check for $12,000 to Texas Children’s Cancer Center. The award presentation was coordinated by Atul Varadachary, who also assisted an anonymous donor in help with matching the children’s efforts. One team, led by Yash Semlani, went on to receive top honors, with Yash eventually receiving the Ernst and Young Youth Entrepreneurship prize.

The Rice Business Plan Competition involved three days of intense pitches and rigorous question and answer sessions by TiE Global and TiE Houston in the month of April. BetaGlide, from IIT Kharagpur, won the largest prize ever awarded in the history of the Rice Business

Plan Competition, which consisted of a combination of the Mercury Fund Investment prize and other commitments totaling over $1Million. At the annual TiE-Global retreat in Spain, TiE Houston was awarded the TiE Global Award for the best contribution to youth entrepreneurship. TiE-Houston CM Ahmed Khan was on hand to receive the award, which recognized TiE Houston’s efforts across three different initiatives, The Rice Business Plan Competition, Lemonade Day, and its partnership with the Bayou MicroFund. Originally launched in 2013, Bayou Microfund is a non-profit 501 c3 corporation launched by Prasad Menon in an effort to expand the presence of micro-lending opportunities in Houston, Texas. Bayou Microfund is a trustee of Kiva Zip and TiE Houston is a supporter of the fund which helps incubate micro-entrepreneurs. To date, the Fund has made five investments in local companies with several TiE Houston members participating. TiE’s key marquee event, the TiE Texas Funding Forum, is underway with significant effort by an Executive Committee including Hall Martin, Arun Pasrija, Aziz Gilani and Shri Iyer, as well as TiE

leadership from Dallas and Austin. Nine companies have been chosen and provided a mentor to help them perfect their business plan presentation.

TiE Houston mentoring breakfasts have been formalized in a partnership with START Houston. This year’s mentoring sessions were organized by Gaurav Khandelwal and John Landsbaum. In addition, TiEHouston held two successful workshops for entrepreneurs - a full day “How to Pitch to Investors” workshop at the Houston Technology Center and a luncheon on “Accessing Capital for Business” by our Platinum sponsor Green Bank.

Members of the Executive Committee, Hall Martin and Kyle Campbell went over the 2015 TiE Texas Funding Forum Update and upcoming 2015 Lemonade Day event respectively. Dr. Roopa Gir, TiE Board Member gave an insight on the upcoming launch of TiE Houston’s new Energy SIG (special interest group) on March 5th, 2015 to be held at the HESS club at 6pm.

Speaking further on TiE Houston’s 2015 initiatives, Vishwanathan, an industrious leader and first female President of the TiE-Houston said she would

Brick puja for Ma Gayatri Temple in Katy on Sat. Feb. 7th

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n preparation of the upcoming temple of Ma gayatri, the Gayatri Pariwar of Houston will be holding a brick puja ceremony on Saturday, Feb 7th at the Ashta Lakshmi temple in Sugarland. The brick puja starts at 4 pm and will be followed by Maha prasad.

Gayatri Pariwar extends a heartfelt invitation to the Houston community to come and be a part of this auspicious brick puja ceremony. One may also write 108 or more Gayatri mantra in red ink, on a piece of paper and bring it to this ceremony. Both the prayed brick and the written mantras will be installed under the murti of Ma Gayatri during the murti installation project.

The location of the upcoming temple is 29104 Park Row in Katy. The devotees are eagerly waiting for the city

permits to come through to be able to start the remodeling project of this temple.

The members of the Houston Gayatri Pariwar are very grateful to the Houston community and those from other parts of the country who have helped raise the necessary funds to enable them to purchase the property in Katy. Over a $100,000 in expenses is still expected to occur once the remodeling project commences. Any contribution from the supporters would be highly appreciated and no amount is too small.

Gayatri Pariwar offers several ritualistic services and sanskars to benefit the local community, such as Gayatri Havan, Grih Pravesh sanskar, punsavan sanskar, Naam vidhii, Satya Narayan Vrat Katha and Marraige ceremony.

Gayatri Pariwar does not charge anything for any of these services and solely depends on the contribution that comes on its own accord for the services performed.

Donation towards the new temple can be mailed to 19515 Cisco Ct. Cy-

press, Tx in the name of “AW Gayatri Pariwar Houston” OR online (texas. awgp.org) Gayatri Pariwar is non profit 501(c) (3) organisation and all tax receipts will be mailed out to the contributor.

We hope to see you at the brick puja and if you are not able to attend, you may call and reserve a brick in your name, mail us your written Gayatri mantra and we will do the puja for you. For more information, please call, Sangita tailor at 281 304 0727 or Mahesh Patel at 281 954 4275.

Akshaya Patra USA welcomes Manisha Gandhi, as a Director of Development – Southeast

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been designed and engineered by its founders to optimize quality and minimize cost, time, and labor. Appropriate technological considerations have governed all phases of the design and process. Akshaya Patra is a unique pioneering program that leverages technology both in cooking and delivery.

ONEHAM, MA: Akshaya Patra USA CEO, Emily Rosenbaum stated: “We are excited to welcome on Manisha Gandhi as our newest Director of Development who will be supporting the AP-USA chapters and volunteer leaders in Houston, Atlanta, Tampa Bay and Washington, DC. Manisha’s passion for the program is self-evident and with it she brings a great mixture of skills and experience that will greatly enhance the work of local leaders to grow the Akshaya Patra movement.”

Manisha, who worked on a documentary for Houston Television Network and TV Asia about Akshaya Patra, shared: “I am honored to join Akshaya Patra and be someone who can further grow the movement of “Unlimited food for education,” an undeniably noble goal. This new opportunity is fully aligned with my hopes for making a difference in the lives of millions of children in India each day”.

Houston Mayor Annise Parker commented: “Manisha will be a terrific asset to the organization. She is someone who is both very well respected and very engaged in ser-

Manisha Mehta

vice to the community. I look forward to being able to visit an Akshaya Patra kitchen and see the very impressive work they are doing on such a tremendous scale.”

Akshaya Patra operates the largest NGO-run school meal programs in the world and serves over 1.4 million children daily in over 10,661 schools through 24 locations in ten states in India. With just $15 from a private donor, Akshaya Patra feeds a child

for an entire academic year.

The meals serve as an incentive for children to come to school and attend school daily, where they receive the tools they need to succeed in life.

Akshaya Patra, a publicprivate partnership, delivers school lunches at a fraction of the cost of similar programs in other parts of the world. The hallmark of the Akshaya Patra program is the centralized kitchen facilities that have

AP-USA was founded in order to help augment the growth of Akshaya Patra, and to provide an outlet for caring individuals and socially conscious corporations and institutions in the US to become part of the Akshaya Patra movement. AP-USA raises funds and awareness for Akshaya Patra in the US and contributes approximately 10% of Akshaya Patra’s annual operating budget of $35 million per year. One-third of the funds raised in the US are contributed by corporate and individual donors and family foundations. The remaining two-thirds come from grass root campaigns led by volunteer Chapters across the US. Akshaya Patra USA is a member of the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI). The CGI has provided additional visibility to Akshaya Patra which has

helped AP-USA raise fundsPresident Bill Clinton visited the Akshaya Patra kitchen and a government school in Jaipur, India on July 16, 2014, choosing Akshaya Patra as a program he wanted to highlight from among thousands of CGI initiatives in Asia.

In 2014, Akshaya Patra USA launched a new initiative to cultivate the leadership of young people. The Youth Ambassador Program is an elite program that empowers high-school students to act as Ambassadors for Akshaya Patra in their communities.

VOICE OF ASIA 7

DIASPORA

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

BAPS Celebrates 150th Birth Anniversary of its founder Shastriji Maharaj, Joins Clean India Campaign

Shastriji Maharaj

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n honor of the 150th birth anniversary of Brahmaswarup Shastriji Maharaj (Sadhu Yagnapurushdas), on January 24, 2015, celebrations were held at over 70 BAPS Swaminarayan Mandirs across North America.

Following the theme of Agna, Upasana, Sadbhav and Paksh, the celebrations were a culmination of a year of events and activities held worldwide and focused on Shastriji Maharaj’s exemplary life and message. Speeches and skits enacted by youths reflected the multitude of hardships and challenges experienced by him, his sadhus and his devotees, in laying the foundation of the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.

They brought to life his pristine character and the loyalty of those around him, serving as inspiration for current and future generations.

Shastriji Maharaj, the third spiritual successor of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, led a life based on the timeless principles of truth, sacrifice, and loyalty.

Born as Dungar Bhakta in Mahelav, Gujarat, his sharp sense of intellect and character were evident in his actions and choices and followed through to his decision to initiate into the Sadhu fold. He devoted himself to the service of the mandir and its devotees and began to study the scriptures in Sanskrit.

He excelled in spiritual studies and came to be known as Shastriji Maharaj for his unparalleled knowledge of Hindu scriptures.

Shastriji Maharaj was one of few who truly understood Bhagwan Swaminarayan’s philosophy and teachings of the Vedic tradition of dual worship of Akshar and Purushottam. With such a strong conviction and amidst scarce resources and extreme hardships, in 1907, he established the BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha. With a handful of devotees and Sadhus, he built five traditional Hindu mandirs in Gujarat, India and laid the pillars of a spiritual and social organization to help propagate the true philosophy of Akshar-Purushottam to widespread acceptance. As the Sanstha expanded, he appointed 28-yearold Sadhu Narayanswarupdas (Pramukh Swami Maharaj) as President of the Sanstha.

The celebrations in North America were part of festivities held around the globe, all culminating to a grand celebration held on January 24, 2015 in Vadodara, Gujarat, India. This special anniversary further elaborated on the theme and was held in the presence of senior swamis of BAPS as well as numerous dignitaries including the Governor of Gujarat Shri O.P. Kohli, M.P. of Tanzania Mr Muhammad Seif Khatib, M.P. Shri Mansukhbhai Rathwa, M.P. Shrimati Ranjanben Bhatt, State Cabinet Ministers Shri Saurabh Patel and Shri Vijaybhai Rupani, Mayor of Vadodara Shri Bharatbhai Shah, Collector Shri Vinodbhai Rao, Chairman of L&T Shri Anil Naik and other distinguished guests.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor of Gujarat, H.E. Omprakash Kohli, addressed the mammoth assembly, “I have never seen such a wonderful and huge assembly with spiritual vibrations. The task of spreading the principles given by Bhagwan Swaminarayan was done by Shastriji Maharaj. Today we are remembering Shastriji Maharaj as a spiritual person.

Dharma, spirituality and social service teach us to transcend arrogance. Ego is like a jail. We are all bound by it. A true spiritual person is free from ego. Such a person was Shastriji Maharaj and today we have Pramukh Swami Maharaj.”

Sadguru Pujya Dr. Swami said, “The root of all the works that Shastriji Maharaj accomplished lies in his profound spirituality.

He was a scholar and adept in administrative matters, however, he was a spiritual person. At the core of his spirituality was his deep faith in Bhagwan Swaminarayan. Shastriji Maharaj had never disconnected himself from Bhagwan Swaminarayan nor did he ever forget him.”

Sadguru Pujya Mahant Swami blessed the festive occasion, “The 150th Celebration of Shastriji Maharaj’s Birthday means to imbue our hearts with his life, works, values and devotion to God. It was Shastriji Maharaj’s mission to make all brahmarup – this means inner cleanliness.

Bhagwan Swaminarayan taught about becoming brahmarup and offering bhakti.”

A special announcement to join

Celebrations were held in different states in the US . Picture shows celebrations in Houston (Top) and India (Below ). the Clean India Campaign was made as part of the BAPS’s social services to society. The campaign includes: - A home to home cleanliness awareness drive by 16,000 BAPS volunteers in socially backward villages - Workshops on cleanliness in 500 schools - Cleanliness awareness drive through 200 rallies - Cleaning of 9200 public places in 3800 towns and villages by BAPS volunteers.

Hundreds of thousands of BAPS volunteers and devotees will offer their services in the Clean India Campaign.

After the announcement Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi tweeted, “My best wishes to the BAPS

Swaminarayan Sanstha for their commendable initiative towards a Swachh Bharat.”

In conclusion, a mass arti was performed by 150,000 devotees and wellwishers and the National Anthem was sung.

At the age of 94, His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj continues to lead BAPS with the same vision and principles established by his guru, Shastriji Maharaj. From Akshardham in Delhi and Gandhinagar in India, to Hindu mandirs in the West, and along with over3850 centers worldwide across five continents, BAPS continues to serve communities, families, and individuals. Mandir activities and education foster a true understanding of age-old principles laid out in Hindu scriptures, in which youth find relevance in their daily lives. Knowing their past, their roots, and their history, they are able to understand and appreciate their heritage and pass it on to future generations.

Through its spiritual and humanitarian activities, BAPS Mandirs help put into practice the universal values of Hindu faith, and sustain rich culture and traditions. A hundred years later, Shastriji Maharaj’s vision flourishes not only in India but also around the world.

For more details visit www.baps.org

COMMUNITY

VOICE OF ASIA 8

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

ICC celebrates India’s 66th Republic Day - Honors leaders for ‘Synergy US-India Relations’

by Somdatta Gangopadhyay he 66th Republic Day of India was celebrated at the Stafford Center on January 31st, 2015. Along with the national anthem of the USA and India the celebration was inaugurated as the Ganesh Vandana followed next. Ms. Falguni Gandhi, Executive Board of Director, ICC shared a few words and eventually introduced Mr. Chandrakant (Charlie) Patel, President, ICC through her speech. Guests could have an opportunity to ‘travel’ back to the pages of history through Patel’s speech where he shared the history of the Constitution of India and that of the ICC. ‘The Indo American community strength has grown considerably in Houston. ICC mission of promoting art, culture and building bridges between diversified communities has been continually growing from year to year,” said Mr. Patel.

The celebrations started with the traditional lighting of the lamp by Mrs. Nandita P. Harish wife of Consul General P Harish. Hon. Consul General of India, Houston, Parvathaneni Harish conveyed his best wishes to the members of the India Culture Center (ICC) on the occasion of India’s 66th Republic Day celebrations themed as “Synergy U.S.-India Relations” on Saturday, 31 January 2015.

The City of Stafford Mayor, Hon. Leonard Scarcella also gave his message to a thunderous applause. Mr. Harish Jajoo, Sugar Land Mayor Pro-Tem said, “I’m honored to be born in India, my motherland.’

Among dignitaries were the two distinguished honorees: Mr. Jagdip Ahluwalia, the founding Secretary of the Indo-American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Houston (IACCGH) and Mr. Abeezar S. Tyebji, CEO, Shipcom Wireless who were recognized for their contribution and ‘Synergy US-India Relations’ which was the theme of the celebrations.

Mr. P Harish was presented with “Distinguished Recognition” Award by the Mayor of Stafford.

The art and culture synonymous with the Indian soil was not forgotten either. Sunanda Group of Performing Arts presented a dance performance which embodied the gracefulness in costumes as well as theme and style of dance. A classical dance performance by Amani Parvathaneni, daughter of Mr. P.Harish formed a part of the evening too. ‘I feel proud to represent the 1.25 billion

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ICC Event Director of Elite Dance Competition- Jasmeeta Singh (3rd from left) with 1st prize winners of $1000-SMU Raas from Dallas. Sponsored by Jaz Creations of Jasmeeta Singh. Also seen are Charlie Patel, ICC President and Event Chair Falguni Gandhi

their seats. Dancers dressed in blue and red graced the stage with a Garbha performance once again rejuvenating the air with traditionalism. There were other performances as well by some other talents. The first prize was bagged by SMU MASTRAAS. Finally it was time for some vocal performance. Jasmeeta Singh’s performance to Dum Maro Dum accompanied by guitarist Anand Chauhan added liveliness in the air. Chauhan’s wife Ashima Chauhan was also invited on stage. A martial arts performance showcasing Kung Fu added dimensions to the event. A musical night came up soon through song performances like Dil Diya Hei, I Love My India, Piya Tose Naina Lage Re, Choop Gayi Saare Nazarein by singers like Sharada Akunuri (female), Alpa Shah (female) and Sanjeev Kumar (male).

“We want the young generation to learn their roots, their ancestry and their traditional values,” said Ms. Gandhi as her message to the young generation. Booths displaying gorgeous dresses and jewelleries as well as realtors and other organizations like Hum Tum Desi also formed a part of the event. Guests had an opportunity to try some mouthwatering food and delicacies at the booths

by Vishala Restaurant, Houston

City of Stafford Mayor, Scarcella presenting a proclamation to Charlie Patel, ICC President (Rt) and Event Chair and ICC Director Falguni Gandhi (far left). people,’ said Amani.

The ICC Elite Dance Competition was one of the major attractions which had Ms. Jasmeeta Singh as one of the anchors that evening had. Singh’s crafty style of anchoring was enough to captivate the audience. She introduced each dance team through her innovative style of ‘signs’ which saw an excited audience as they were delighted in guessing the theme of dance for each team.

Participants from all corners made the dance competition complete through their perfor-

mance. Gidha was the first one in which performers dressed in vibrant colors gave a lively performance. “I feel proud to show that the daughters of Punjab can do something,” said Simran Kaur,a performer Senior, Cypress Falls High School. Along with their props and graceful costumes, the performers did ‘bring’ Punjab on stage. “We feel proud that we are still keeping our tradition,” said Mandeep Kaur, mother of Jasleen Kaur,a performer, Aragon Middle School. Kathak was the next on the plate in

A section of the audience with VIP guests seated in the front. which dancers dressed in orange and green staged their show. An air of traditionalism was infused as they performed to the age old number Mile Sur Mera Tumhara which again showcased the evergreen talents like Pt.Bhimsen Joshi, Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhonsle, etc. One performance after

another was continuously leaving the audience spellbound.

Bhangra was another item which again added life to the event as men proudly flaunted their turquoise blue pagdi. As it was a high energy performance, the audience too could be seen shaking shoulders sitting on

Hot Breads and Mirch Masala.

Red Oak Hospital, Wallis State Bank, Charlie and Deepty Patel, Falguni and Bharat Gandhi, Fort Bend MRI, Deep Foods, Jasmeeta and Bobby Singh, Sapna Shah, Paradise Gifts include the name of some of the many sponsors for the event.

K. V. Doraiswamy Bhattar 281-489-0464 or 281-948-8368

BRICK POOJA

More than 30 years of experience as Priest in major temples including Sri Meenakshi Temple Pearland, TX. Can speak 5 languages (Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, Hindi, and English)

MA GAYATRI temple

for upcoming

kvdoraiswamy@yahoo.com • kvdoraiswamy60@gmail.com

Rituals Performed: Sreemantham, Punyahavachanam, Namakaranam, Annaprashanam, Vidyarambham, Choulam, Upanayanam, Wedding, Sathya narayana puja, and all kind of Homas (Havans) and more. I can drive to your place.

PREVENT HEIR LOSS.

Make sure your heirs don’t lose out when paying estate taxes.

Call us today to talk about how we can help with Estate Planning.

AHCPA, PC CPA’s Spring Office 507 N Sam Houston Pkway #160, Houston, TX 77060 713-552-9499 IRS Resolution - Call Roger Thaxton www.ahcpafirm.com

Address of future temple: 20914 Park Row, Katy, Tx 77449

Gayatri Pariwar of Houston

cordially invites you to come and be a part of the Murti installation preparations of Ma Gayatri by: Performing pooja of a brick in your or a loved one’s name Optional: Write 108 or more Gayatri mantra in red ink.

Your sacred paper will be installed under Gayatri Ma’s murti, along with your brick

DATE February 7, 2015 Saturday, 4:00 PM Followed by Aarti and Prasad Your continued monetary support is highly appreciated to help with the ongoing remodeling project of the temple

VENUE Sri Ashtalakshmi Temple 10098 Synott Road Sugarland, TX-77498

Event Sponsorship Opportunities available for Food and Hall Rental.

Please make checks payable to “AW Gayatri Pariwar Houston” and mail to: 19515 Cisco Ct. Cypress, Tx 77433 OR donate online (texas.awgp.org) All World Gayatri Pariwar is a Non-Profit 501(C) (3) organization

For more information contact us Sangita & Bharat Tailor 281-304-0727 Varsha & Mahesh Patel 281-954-4275

Website: texas.awgp.org | Email: awgp.houston@gmail.com Inspirer & Mentor - All World Gayatri Pariwar, Shantikunj, Haridwar, India

SOUTH ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 9

New Sri Lanka president to visit India: Modi

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EW DELHI, India 2/4/2015 - Sri Lanka’s new President Maithripala Sirisena is to visit New Delhi later this month on what is expected to be his first foreign trip since winning power, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Wednesday.

are unbreakable,” Modi added.

openly courting China.

Modi’s predecessor Manmohan Singh pointedly boycotted a 2013 Commonwealth summit that was hosted by Rajapakse.

“I look forward to welcoming President Sirisena later this month,” Modi said on his Twitter account in a goodwill message to Sri Lanka as the former British colony celebrated Independence Day.

There was no immediate confirmation of the dates from Indian officials but Sri Lankan sources said Sirisena was set to travel to New Delhi on February 16 for a two-day visit which would also include a pilgrimage to a religious site.

Sirisena has previously said India would be his first port of call as president.

Sirisena’s victory over Rajapakse in last month’s presidential election has been seen as a chance for the two countries to reboot ties as Modi seeks to reassert India’s dominance in its own backyard.

Ties between India and its southern neighbour Sri Lanka were often tense during the decade-long rule of Sirisena’s predecessor Mahinda Rajapakse, who infuriated New Delhi by

Sri Lanka’s new Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera travelled to New Delhi in his first week in office, saying that his visit “reflects our priorities”.

“The bonds of history, culture & shared values that we share

Matang Sinh case: Home Secretary Anil Goswami resigns

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EW DELHI: Home Secretary Anil Goswami was tonight resigned after government asked him to put in his papers in the wake of controversy over his alleged attempt to stall the arrest of Saradha scam accused Matang Sinh, a former Congress minister at the centre.

The sources which earlier said Goswami was removed later conveyed to the media that he was allowed to resign to give a “dignified” exit.

The names of Rural Development Secretary L C Goyal, a 1979-batch IAS officer of Kerala cadre, and Petroleum Secretary Saurabh Chandra, 1978-batch IAS officer from UP cadre, are doing the rounds as Goswami’s successor.

The exit of Goswami, a UPA government appointee, came on a day of hectic activities following media reports that he had tried to prevent CBI officers from carrying out Sinh’s arrest on Saturday.

This is the second instance of the removal of a top bureaucrat in a week after Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh’s services were curtailed last Wednesday after she refused to resign from the post. While there were no allegations of impropriety against her, the Government is said to have been unhappy with her leadership of the Ministry.

The continuance of Goswami became untenable after he had admitted to Home Minister Rajnath Singh that he had spoken to CBI officials before they arrested Sinh in Kolkata on Saturday.

PTI had reported on Sunday that CBI was miffed with the interference by Goswami in the arrest of Sinh. The agency had submitted a report to the PMO on the issue about Goswami and a Joint Director level officer of CBI. Rajnath Singh who had returned to the capital yesterday talked to Goswami who admitted to have called up CBI officials probing the Saradha scam in connection with Sinh’s arrest.

The Minister immediately briefed the Prime Minister on the issue last night. Today he called Goswami for a discussion followed by a meeting with CBI Director Anil Sinha.

Both the officials maintained silence on their separate meetings with the Home Minister.

Goswami, a 1978-batch IAS officer of Jammu and Kashmir cadre, was appointed as Home Secretary in 2013 during the tenure of UPA Government. He was said to have been close to Matang Sinh, a controversial politician from Assam who was a Minister of State for Home in PV Narasimha Rao’s government.

FOR MORE COMMUNITY NEWS www.voiceofasiaonline.com

Pakistan military says 25 militants killed in air strikes

Islamabad, Pakistan | AFP | Wednesday 2/4/2015 Pakistan’s military said it killed 25 militants in air strikes on tribal regions near the Afghan border Wednesday as part of a major offensive against the Taliban and other insurgents.

The strikes took place in the Sanzila area of South Waziristan and Tirah in Khyber, the military said in a statement.

“In precise aerial strikes, 25

ISLAMABAD: In a fresh diplomatic row between Pakistan and Bangladesh, a Pakistani High Commission official based in Dhaka was declared persona non grata by the Bangladeshi government and was asked to leave the country.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tasneem Aslam also confirmed the incident and said the official has reached Islamabad.

Official sources said Goswami who turned 60 last month and would have continued till June 30 was asked to resign after which he submitted his resignation.

terrorists were killed and seven hideouts were destroyed,” the statement added.

The conflict zone is off-limits to journalists, so there is no way to independently verify the number and identity of those killed.

Pakistan began a long-awaited push to clear insurgent bases from North Waziristan last June after a bloody Taliban attack on Karachi airport finally sank fal-

tering peace talks.

Air strikes, artillery, mortars and ground troops have all been used to take back territory.

The semi-autonomous tribal areas on the Afghan border have for years been a hideout for Islamist militants of all stripes, including Al-Qaeda and the Pakistani Taliban as well as foreign fighters such as Uzbeks and Uighurs.

Pakistani diplomat expelled from Dhaka

“Diplomatic official Mazhar Khan was charged by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry of running an illegal Indian currency business in Dhaka beside alleged links with militants,” a diplomatic source told Dawn. com.

Official sources said Goswami who turned 60 last month and would have continued till June 30 was asked to resign after which he submitted his resignation.

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

“Allegations against him are baseless and the incident is unfortunate,” she told Dawn.com.

The Pakistan High Commission in Dhaka sent Mazhar

Khan immediately home after getting orders from Bangladesh’s ministry of foreign affairs.

Sources also said the high commission in Dhaka has not only been under pressure due to the incident but is also being closely watched by Bangladeshi secret services.

Relations between the two countries have recently been at a low point.

In January, Bangladeshi police arrested four suspected members of Islamic State in Dhaka including a regional coordinator for the militant group who told police they had been trained in Pakistan.

Read more: Arrested IS suspects in Bangladesh claim training in Pakistan Tensions have also risen be-

tween the two countries over executions carried out by the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina against alleged war criminals from the 1971 war, when the former East Pakistan became Bangladesh.

In December 2013, Pakistan’s envoy in Dhaka had been summoned by the govt regarding a resolution adopted by the Pakistani parliament condemning the execution of Jamaat leader Abdul Quader Molla for his involvement in alleged war crimes of 1971.

Read more:Bangladesh grills Pakistan envoy over Molla resolution Bangladesh’s foreign ministry had said that Molla’s trial and punishment was the country’s internal affair and that the resolution adopted by Pakistan’s National Assembly was uncalled for.

VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

VOICE OF ASIA 11

LIFESTYLE

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

ONLINE .COM voiceofasiaonline.com

Vol. 28 No. 6 Friday, February 6, 2015 Section 2 Page 11

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com Tel: 713-774-5140

Thailand: Land of Smiles, Land of Ghosts

by Delphine Thouvenot / Thanaporn Promyamyai

on a row of zebra figurines at a busy road junction in Bangkok known for fatal crashes.

BANGKOK, Thailand - From exorcism ceremonies to spirit houses and amulets claiming to make wearers bullet-proof, Thailand is a culture soaked in superstition -- an obsession critics say is holding the nation back.

Zebra statues are a common sight at accident spots due to the belief that their stripes -which remind people of pedestrian crossings -- will fend off the unhappy ghosts of previous traffic victims that many believe cause new crashes.

On a popular episode of “Humans defy ghosts” -- a weekly Thai TV programme that delves into the supernatural -- a twoyear-old girl who survived three days next to the dead body of her mother was asked a series of questions by one of the show’s panellists.

“I thought about destroying them, but there is CCTV. I am afraid society would not accept it,” he told AFP. The man’s main gripe -which has received significant support on his Facebook page -- is that Thais would rather put their faith in statues and amulets than take concrete steps to reduce personal risk, such as driving more safely.

“Who prepared your milk?”

Kapol Thongplab enquired.

“Who played with you? Who opened the door?”

“Mummy,” the little girl replied, as genuinely convinced as her adult interlocutors that her mother’s ghost continued to sustain her in those harrowing days.

A fortune teller (L) predicts future to a young woman by using tarot cards, at a Buddhist temple in Bangkok, on January 15, 2015 (AFP Photo/Christophe Archambault).

Thailand has the secondhighest traffic fatality rate in the world, with 44 deaths per 100,000 population, according to a 2014 study based on World Health Organization figures.

In Thailand, a show like this is more than just entertainment.

“In all countries, people believe in the afterlife,” Kapol, one of Thailand’s most famous ghost experts, tells AFP.

But while drivers cover their cars with protective trinkets to keep safe, many still speed and drink-drive. Mototaxis are laden with amulets but those at the wheel rarely use helmets, and often overload passengers.

“Westerners may believe in Satan. In the nations of Southeast Asia, we believe in ghosts.

This kind of belief helps people refrain from doing bad things.

Mr A may think ‘If I kill Mr B, he may become a ghost and come back to haunt me’.”

The “FuckGhosts” campaign appears to be having a partial effect, with authorities in January removing hundreds of statues that had built up around the accident black spot -- known locally as “Kong Roi Sop”, the curve that claims 100 lives.

The spirit world is everywhere in Thailand where animism and folk beliefs are deeply infused with Buddhism.

Most buildings boast a ‘spirit house’ -- a shrine placed in an auspicious corner of a property where offerings can be made to appease ghosts lest they turn malevolent.

From time to time Thailand’s notoriously fractious politics also draw on the occult.

Competing camps have openly used black magic curses against each other while protesters often deck themselves

“These kind of beliefs keep Thailand an underdeveloped country,” he fumes.

Women pray before releasing fish into a canal to earn ‘merit’, at a Buddhist temple in Bangkok, on January 15, 2015 (AFP Photo/Christophe Archambault) out in amulets that they believe make them impervious to bullets or harm.

- Misplaced faith But some Thais say they are fed up with what they describe

as naive superstitions that lead their countrymen to make poor decisions or leave them vulnerable to exploitation.

AFP met one man, who wished to remain anonymous, leading an Internet campaign

against Thai beliefs in ghosts.

The man, who goes by the pseudonym “FuckGhosts” and runs a popular Facebook page with the same name, recently caused uproar when he posted a photograph of himself stepping

But the removal could only go ahead once a Buddhist monk had initiated a ceremony making sure any evil spirits would leave the area.

“At the beginning, the workers were quite concerned,” admitted Supit Kraimak, head of the local sanitation department.

“But after the monk chanted, they felt more comfortable about the job.”

- Lucrative business -

For much of Thailand’s soothsayers, astrologers and its huge monastic network, belief in the superstitious is also undoubtedly lucrative.

Exorcisms, protective spells and trinkets are all readily available at a price, while books and films about haunting spirits are hugely popular. Businesses often pay monks to make annual visits to chase away evil spirits.

Thais believe a violent or unexpected death is more likely to result in the creation of an angry ghost when a soul departs.

And few ghosts are more famous than “Nak”, a woman who Thais believe lived in Bangkok in the nineteenth century and died during childbirth while her husband was away fighting a war.

There are many versions of the story, but in general they all describe how the husband returned to find his wife seemingly still alive.

Nak was so devoted to him that she had remained as a ghost, but became a malevolent spirit when her husband discovered the truth and ran away.

“On the eve of a lottery, this temple is open all night,” reads the sign on a shrine dedicated to Nak in Bangkok where locals make offerings to the ghost asking for cures, good luck and exemption from military service.

Fortune-tellers ply their trade outside the shrine and devotees also release fish, turtles and frogs into a nearby canal to earn “merit”.

According to the merchants selling the animals, the release of an eel will bring professional success and a frog can reduce sins.

The head of the temple declined to be questioned by AFP. But those visiting were convinced their offerings to Nak would be rewarded.

“I believe in her and I believe in ghosts,” said Netnaran Janvanu, a young mother at the temple, before adding matterof-factly: “My friends believe in ghosts too.”

Indian police rescue hundreds of child slaves

by Jalees ANDRABI ndian police have rescued hundreds of child slaves as young as six during days of raids on workshops in the central city of Hyderabad, a senior officer said Friday.

I

Police discovered 120 children -- some of them sick, underweight and traumatised -- during raids on workshops that make bangles and other goods late on Thursday, as part of a city-wide crackdown on child slavery.

“They have chronic skin diseases and were underfed.

They are in trauma and visibly shaken,” V. Satyanarayana, deputy police commissioner for south Hyderabad, told AFP.

The children complained of being forced to work 16 hours a day without breaks, and were threatened with violence and no food if they disobeyed orders, the officer said.

dozens of workshops tucked away in the city’s narrow alleys, after tip-offs from child rights activists and police informers.

Some 220 children were rescued last week when police stormed similar workshops in the city’s south, Satyanarayana said.

Many were transported from the impoverished northern state of Bihar last year after their parents sold them to traffickers for 5,000-10,000 rupees ($80-$160), according to rescuers.

“They were kept in dingy rooms with no ventilation and exposure to harmful gases,” said Satyanarayana.

Thirty-one traffickers and agents have been arrested and charged with child slavery and police are making efforts to reunite children with their families, the commissioner added.

“The campaign against bonded labour and trafficking will continue.”

TV footage taken after the raids showed cramped and dirty workshops with no win-

Police began a massive clampdown last week against

Continued from Page 14

Indian Nobel Peace laureate Kailash Satyarthi at a protest against child slavery. - AFP

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HEALTH, SC & TECH

VOICE OF ASIA 12

Smartphone can test for HIV, syphilis: study

M

IAMI, | AFP - US researchers have found a way to turn a common smartphone into a quick and easy device to conduct field tests for HIV and syphilis.

HIV, and “performed almost as well.”

Using an attachment that costs $34 to make -- a far cry from the standard $18,000 for diagnostic tests -- blood drops are tested for the diseases’ antibodies in minutes instead of hours, said the research led

by Columbia University engineers.

Experts hope that this lab-ona-chip device could be a helpful tool, especially in places where field clinics are set up to help remote or underserved populations.

When plugged into a smartphone’s audio jack, scientists said it mimicked the enzymelinked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), a well-known test for

The initial study, involving 96 women in Rwanda, is published in the journal Science Translational Medicine.

The team, led by Samuel Sia, associate professor of biomedical engineering, is aiming for larger clinical trials first.

“Our work shows that a full laboratory-quality immunoassay can be run on a smartphone

accessory,” said Sia.

“Coupling microfluidics with recent advances in consumer electronics can make certain lab-based diagnostics accessible to almost any population with access to smartphones.

This kind of capability can transform how health care services are delivered around the world.”

The study was funded by a Saving Lives at Birth transition grant -- which is backed by the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Gates Foundation, government of Norway, Grand Challenges Canada, the World Bank and the Wallace H. Coulter Foundation.

Japan hacker jailed after catand-mouse game with police

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

NASA hails spending boost under Obama budget proposal

N

ASA on Monday hailed a proposal by President Barack Obama to boost spending for the US space agency and announced plans for a mission to explore Jupiter’s moon, Europa.

The agency’s administrator, Charles Bolden, said at the Kennedy Space Center in Florida that NASA has made strides in the journey toward Mars -- where a human mission is planned for 2024 -- with a “near-flawless” flight test of its new Orion deep space vehicle.

He also heralded success in handing over International Space Station resupply missions to commercial partners, with the first crew flights on the horizon in 2017.

Although Obama’s overall $4 trillion US budget plan faces an uphill climb through Republicancontrolled Congress, support for the space agency tends to reach across bipartisan lines.

“President Obama is proposing a fiscal year 2016 budget of $18.5 billion dollars for NASA, building on the significant investments

NASA Administrator Charles Bolden testifies before the House Space Subcommittee reviewing the FY 2015 budget for NASA on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on March 27, 2014 (AFP Photo/Jim Watson) the administration has made in America’s space program over the past six years,” Bolden said in an address broadcast online and shown at NASA locations across the United States.

“That’s a half-billion-dollar increase over last year’s enacted budget, and it is a clear vote of confidence in you –- the employees of NASA –- and the ambitious exploration program you are ex-

ecuting.”

Bolden said key areas of focus for NASA are continuing to prepare a manned mission to Mars, as well as developing advanced solar electric propulsion systems needed for an asteroid redirect mission.

“We have identified several asteroids that could be good candidates and will make a decision soon on a capture option.”

Bolden also touched on a new mission in the works for Jupiter, but gave few details.

“Looking to the future, we’re planning a mission to explore Jupiter’s fascinating moon Europa, selecting instruments this spring and moving toward the next phase of our work.”

In 2011, NASA sent a billiondollar solar-powered spacecraft called Juno on a five-year journey to Jupiter.

Juno, which should arrive in July 2016, was launched just over two weeks after the final space shuttle mission returned to Earth and the 30-year program was shuttered for good.

The European Space Agency already has an unmanned spacecraft in the works to explore Jupiter’s icy moons, including Europa.

Japan hacker Yusuke Katayama, 32, jailed.

T

OKYO, Japan | AFP A Japanese hacker who hijacked computers in order to issue death threats, leading to the arrest of several innocent people, was jailed Wednesday for his high-stakes games of cat and mouse with police.

adding that Katayama’s actions had been “vicious”.

Yusuke Katayama, 32, used computers around the country to make a series of threats in 2012, including that he would kill multiple people at a comic book event, attack an airplane and target a kindergarten attended by the grandchildren of Emperor Akihito.

The case exposed the ineptitude of Japan’s police force when it came to dealing with cyber crime and highlighted their tendency to force admissions of guilt from people they have arrested.

“He committed the crime, and the purpose of it was (for police) to make wrongful arrests,” said presiding judge Katsunori Ohno at Tokyo District Court,

Katayama used a virus to gain control of strangers’ computers through which he issued threats and a series of riddles that captured the attention of the national media.

The National Police Agency (NPA) had to apologise after it emerged that officers had extracted “confessions” from four people they arrested, even though they had nothing to do with the threats.

Police held one of the suspects for several weeks before media and a cyber crime expert received anonymous messages containing information that investigators conceded could only have been known by the real culprit.

The Jupiter Icy Moons Explorer, or JUICE, will be launched in 2022, arriving at Jupiter in 2030 for a mission lasting three years.

The messages said that details of the computer virus had been strapped to a cat on an island near Tokyo.

The police found the cat and tracked down Katayama, arresting him in February 2013.

The NPA chief proffered a red-faced apology, acknowledging his force had been tricked by the hacker and promising his cyber-crime unit would brush up its skills.

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LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 13

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Sri Lanka bans planned luxury casinos New Salman Rushdie

novel out in September: publishers

L

ONDON - British author Salman Rushdie’s first novel in seven years will be released in September, his publishers said Thursday.

The title, “Two Years Eight Months and Twenty-Eight Nights”, is a reference to the collection of folk tales known as the Arabian Nights.

It “blends history, mythology and a timeless love story to bring alive a world that has been plunged into an age of unreason,” publishers Jonathan Cape said in a statement.

Rushdie, known for lengthy

tomes such as the Booker Prize winning “Midnight’s Children”, says his latest book is shorter than previous works.

“It’s not long. It will be something like 250 pages, which is like clearing my throat. I have finally learned how to shut up,” he reportedly told the Cheltenham Literature Festival in southwest England last year.

Rushdie, 67, was placed under a fatwa by Iran over his 1988 book “The Satanic Verses” and received police protection.

His last novel for adults was “The Enchantress of Florence” in 2008.

All-star actress roster to light up 65th Berlin film fest

by Deborah COLE BERLIN - New movies starring Juliette Binoche, Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett, Helen Mirren and Lea Seydoux will put women in the spotlight when they premiere at the 65th Berlin film festival starting Thursday.

Tourists on the beaches in Colombo in Sri Lanka.

S

ri Lanka’s new government on Thursday scrapped generous tax concessions for foreign-funded resorts and banned them from including casinos after opposition by the country’s influential Buddhist monks.

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the government would pull with immediate effect tax breaks for three luxury resorts that had been given the green light to open in Colombo with high-end gambling houses.

“We will not allow casinos on their premises,” the premier told lawmakers.

The previous government led by Mahinda Rajapakse had introduced measures -including a five percent tax rate for the resorts -- in a bid to turn the Sri Lankan capital into a gambling hotspot, despite resistance from Buddhist monks.

President

Maithripala

Sirisena, who swept to victory in January 8 elections backed by the country’s main party of monks, pledged to end the breaks during his campaign.

The 11-day event in the frosty German capital, the first major cinema showcase in Europe each year, will begin with Oscar winner Binoche playing Josephine Peary, who accompanied her explorer husband Robert on treacherous Arctic expeditions, in “Nobody Wants the Night”.

Thursday’s moves place a question mark over the future of Australian gambling mogul James Packer’s plans to build a $350-million luxury hotel with a casino.

The other two mega resorts are a $650-million development by local conglomerate John Keells Holdings, which has foreign shareholders, and a $300-million project by local businessman Dhammika Perera, who has sought overseas funding.

None of the proposed gambling operations have opened in Colombo yet, but several small, local, low-key casinos have been in operation for decades, exploiting legal loopholes.

Packer’s proposed 450room Crown Sri Lanka resort

Sri Lanka’s new government on Thursday, Jan 29, 2015, scrapped generous tax concessions for foreign-funded resorts and banned them from including casinos after opposition by the country’s influential Buddhist monks. -- PHOTO: REUTERS. -- which once promised on its website to offer “world-class gaming facilities” -- is yet to begin construction.

Government spokesman Rajitha Senaratne said the operations of existing local casinos would also be reviewed.

“We are told there are two or more casino licences in the country, but we want to see

the legal basis of those operations,” Senaratne said. “We will review all this.”

Finance Minister Ravi Karunanayake said he would give existing local casinos, thought to number about five, a deadline of mid April to pay a flat fee of one billion rupees ($7.6 million) to remain in business.

The film is directed by Spain’s Isabel Coixet, only the second woman in the history of the Berlinale, as the event is known, to hold the coveted opening-night slot.

Dieter Kosslick, who has run the festival since 2001, told reporters that many of the more than 400 films that will screen focused on “strong women in extreme situations”.

Kidman plays British adventurer and spy Gertrude Bell opposite former “Twilight” heartthrob Robert Pattinson as

T.E. Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia, in German veteran Werner Herzog’s “Queen of the Desert”.

Blanchett joins Natalie Portman and Christian Bale in “Knight of Cups”, a new feature about the perils of fame by reclusive US director Terrence Malick.

Kosslick said he hoped Malick, who won Berlin’s prestigious Golden Bear top prize for “The Thin Red Line” in 1999 and the Palme d’Or at Cannes in 2011 for “The Tree of Life”, would attend the red-carpet premiere.

Seydoux, the latest Bond girl in the British spy franchise, returns to Berlin with French director Benoit Jacquot in “Diary of a Chambermaid”, based on a novel already adapted by cinema greats Jean Renoir and Luis Bunuel.

British actress Mirren stars in “Woman in Gold”, the true story of Holocaust survivor Maria Altmann who fought the Austrian government for nearly a decade for restitution of valuable Klimt paintings that the Nazis stole from her family.

Young Life

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Friday, February 6, 2015

Section 2

Page 14

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Tel: 713-774-5140

Goswami Academy now US teen survives 48 open for 2015 registration hours lost in Swiss Alps Geneva, Switzerland | AFP | Wednesday 2/4/2015 A 19-year-old American student who disappeared over the weekend while skiing in the Swiss Alps was rescued Tuesday, alive but suffering from hypothermia, police said Tuesday.

G

oswami Education is a non-profit entity whose primary objective is to advance, disseminate, spread and propagate spiritualbased educational programs to children in the Greater Houston community. Goswami Academy is offering education to children starting from the early childhood years to elementary school and eventually up to high school and be a model for future such schools in other cities across North America. All the educational programs are unique as they are values-based and spirituality is interwoven into the curriculum. These values-based educational programs include that the teachers, policy, school atmosphere and the entire ethos of the organization is centred on that.

Goswami Academy offers an inquiry based curriculum with a core mission of inspiring excellence in creative academics through a culture of spiritual values by nurturing relationships. Children are placed at the center of this model where they interact with five themes or contexts: living beings, nature, God, action and time. Through this interaction they encounter various concepts. These concepts are further explored through rich topics of study.

The rich topics are mapped to the Texas State learning outcomes. Values are embedded within the curriculum and reflect the spiritual basis of our world view. Children are encouraged to think creatively and critically with reason and logic. Innovation, resilience and persistency are essential dispositions cultivated by the Goswami Academy curriculum.

Goswami Academy’s comprehensive academic plan focuses on proven, time-tested educational practices that nourish academic potential and spiritual growth. The Academy believes in providing a solid foundation to children in

After searching for more than 48 hours, rescuers finally found the US teen, who went missing while skiing off-piste Sunday near the Diablerets resort in southern Switzerland, police in the canton of Vaud said in a statement.

Goswami Academy students are encouraged to think creatively and critically with reason and logic.

“The man was found conscious, in a state of hypothermia and exhaustion, and stuck waist-deep in the thick blanket of snow,” the statement said, describing his survival as “miraculous”.

He had told his rescuers that he had left the prepared slopes to “free ride” back to the resort.

But on his way down the mountain, he had gotten lost and broken one of his bindings. He had tried to continue on one ski, but had fallen into a stream.

Exhausted and soaked, the 19-year-old was then caught in a storm, which snowed him under and trapped him for the next two days.

“The skier was relatively well-equipped when it came to clothing, but had no working means of communication and none of the vital material needed when skiing off-piste,” including shovels and sensors, the police said.

The skier, whose life was not in danger, was taken by helicopter to the Zweisimmen hospital near Bern.

The American’s rescue came after 11 off-piste skiers were killed in avalanches in the Swiss Alps over a period of four days, following heavy snow-fall.

Fun, Adventure Around Corner During Spring Break Camp

S

ugar Land, TX - Registration is open for the City of Sugar Land’s annual Spring Break Camp taking place Monday-Friday, March 9-13. This year, the camp has extended hours and will run from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Imperial Park Recreation Center, 234 Matlage Way. All youngsters ages five to 13 are invited to participate. The cost for residents is $150 per child and $200 for campers who live outside of the city limits.

Developing gross motor skills in P.E at Goswami Academy. learning core skills and subjects. The Academy provides a purposeful, challenging and rigorous learning environment.

Goswami Academy motivates children to become individuals who are: Confident, Compassionate, Critical thinkers, Caring and loving and Open minded.

Goswami Academy’s admissions team knows that choosing the right school for a child is a crucial decision and is here to welcome the parents

and provide all the information and support they need to determine whether Goswami Academy is the right fit for their family. Goswami education admits students of any race, color, national origin and ethnic origin. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship, loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs.

Goswami Academy is currently accepting applications for Grades Pre-Pre-KindergartenFourth grade (ages 3 – 9 years) for 2015/16.

For additional details please visit us @ https://www.facebook.com/GoswamiAcademy or contact us at Email: info@ goswamiacademy.org , Website: www.goswamiacademy. org or Phone: 713-714-2250.

Goswami Academy is located on 1320 West 34th St, Houston, Texas – 77019-9923.

The camp includes a week full of crafts, activities and games.

Children will participate in different fun and exciting themed events each day such as traveling through time on “Time Warp” day or tackling dangers in the “Wild West.” They will even get hands-on engineering

experience while working with LEGOS® during a workshop provided by Play-Well TEKnologies.

Children will also utilize the IPRC’s state-of-the-art gymnasium for sports, visit the beautiful Imperial Park and come home each day with fun memories.

Children should wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. A snack will be provided each day; however, children are asked to bring a sack lunch labeled with their name. Space is limited, so call now to register.

For more information, contact the Imperial Park Recreation Center at (281) 275-2885 or visit www.imperialparkrecreationcenter.org.

Read more on YOUNG LIFE Visit: www.voiceofasiaonline.com

UNICEF seeks $3.1 bn aid for ‘new generation’ of crises

Afshan Khan, Director of the Office of Emergency Programs UNICEF, speaks during a press conference on the situation of children in Syria and in Ebola affected countries, at the European headquarters of the United Nations, in Geneva, Switzerland, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015 (Photo: AP).

by Abhik CHANDA ENEVA, AFP | The UN children’s agency launched a record $3.1 billion aid appeal on Thursday to help 62 million children at risk from a “new generation” of humanitarian crises.

The threats ranged from the brutal war in Syria that shows no sign of ending after nearly four years to the Ebola outbreak in west Africa and the Ukraine conflict.

“From deadly natural disasters to brutal conflicts and fastspreading epidemics, children across the world are facing a new generation of humanitarian crises,” said Afshan Khan, UNICEF’s director of emergency programmes.

“The scale of the crises, their duration and impact are unprecedented,” she told AFP. “Conflicts are increasingly taking on subregional dimensions.”

Khan said although child fighters had often been recruited for wars in poorer countries, it was now increasingly becoming common in middle-income nations such as Syria.

G

“We have information that thousands of children, mainly boys between the age of 13 and 18, are being recruited by armed groups in Syria,” she said.

“What is new is also that the groups are paying stipends to the families of the children,” Khan said.

The aid appeal is $1 billion higher than last year and targets 98 million people -- two-thirds of them children -- in 71 countries.

Khan said 20 percent of the total aid appeal was aimed at investment in education, “the bridge to the future”.

According to UNICEF, more than one in 10 of the world’s children –- or 230 million –- currently live in countries and areas hit by armed conflicts.

The largest chunk of the appeal -- $903 million -- is aimed at helping children in Syria and the sub-region.

“Half of the children in Syria are out of schools and one-third of the schools have been destroyed,” said Khan, who has just returned from a tour of Syria.

According to UNICEF at least 160 children died in attacks on

schools in the country last year.

More than eight million Syrian children have been affected by the civil war, with 1.7 million now living as refugees, according to the latest UN figures.

The agency is also targeting raising $500 million to help Ebola victims in west Africa and prevent fresh outbreaks.

“Around a quarter of the Ebola cases here have been in children,” said Peter Salama, UNICEF’s emergency coordinator for the disease.

The Ebola mortality rate is higher in children, he said, adding that 16,000 children in west Africa had lost their parents or guardians to the disease.

The response to the Ebola crisis was “the biggest logistics operation in UNICEF’s history with 5,000 metric tonnes of supplies delivered in the past six months,” Salama said.

Another major problem area in Africa is Nigeria where attacks by the Islamist Boko Haram group have intensified, displacing more than one million people in the northeast.

Human Rights Watch said in October that more than 500 women and girls have been abducted since the Boko Haram insurgency began in 2009, although other estimates put the figure much higher.

“I don’t see the Boko Haram menace ending in the near future and what is very worrying for us is that the kidnapping of children, especially girls, is spilling over from Nigeria to neighbouring countries,” Khan said.

“We could be faced with a huge humanitarian sub-regional crisis.”

UNICEF is also seeking $32.5 million for Ukraine, where about 5.2 million people are living in war zones, over 600,000 people have been internally displaced

and some 1.7 million children have been affected by the conflict.

The appeal also targets donations for hugely underfunded cri-

ses which have fallen off the radar such as Afghanistan (35 percent funded in 2014) and Palestine (23 percent funded last year).

“Afghanistan cannot afford to

be forgotten just because it is no longer in the headlines,” Khan said. “Severe malnutrition affects more than 30 percent of children and we cannot forget that.”

Indian police rescue hundreds of child slaves Continued from Page 11

dows and discarded clothes.

Children were seen huddled in a room, looking bewildered and being watched over by police officers.

-

- ‘Rescue is the beginning’

Eleven children are reported missing in India every hour and almost 40 percent remain untraceable. Many are trapped by gangs and forced into prostitution, child labour and slavery, according to police and activists.

Activists, who have criticised police for turning a blind eye to child trafficking, welcomed the police crackdown but cautioned the youngsters could become easy prey for criminals if they are not cared for.

Children freed from years of slavery in the carpet loom business of northern India demonstrates in New Delhi, September 18, 1992. — AFP file pic

“This is an excellent initiative”, Bhuvan Ribhu, an activist and lawyer with Bachpan Bachao Andolan (Save Childhood Movement), told AFP.

India’s mega cities such as Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai are a particular targets for gangs, which entice poor parents from rural areas with the promise of jobs and monthly wages but then sell the children into bonded labour.

“The rescue of child slaves is the beginning. We have to ensure they get rehabilitated and compensated for the work. Also, the offenders are penalised for the crime,” he said.

Most of them end up as construction or domestic workers. Others take up rag picking, agricultural work and in industries such as fireworks, tobacco, bangle making and carpet weaving.

Some four million Indian children work as domestic helpers, in roadside restaurants and in factories making clothes and other items, according to government figures released last year. Experts say the actual figures are much higher.

Indian rights activist Kailash Satyarthi won the Nobel Peace Prize last year for his efforts to halt child labour, including the trafficking of children into slavery.

VOICE OF ASIA 15

BOLLYWOOD MASALA

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Friday, February 6, 2015

Section 2

Page 15

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

Tel: 713-774-5140

‘Fitoor’ a love story, not about Vidya Balan offered role of terrorism, says actor Rahul Bhat Benazir Bhutto in biopic

B

ollywood actor Rahul Bhat, who is currently shooting for Fitoor in Kashmir, said the film deals with a love story and is not about terrorism. Bhat, a native of Kashmir, plays a key role in the Abhishek Kapoor-directed film, which is based The Great Expectations.

“It is an adaptation of the famous novel The Great Expectations by Charles Dickens. There is no relation to terrorism like the films made in the recent past,” Bhat told reporters, adding there was tremendous support from the locals and the administration to the film industry.

Fitoor stars Aditya Roy Kapoor, Katrina Kaif and Rekha.

The film is currently being shot in the Valley and around the famous Dal Lake.

The actor, who was last seen in Anurag Kashyap’s Ugly, said there is no role of army in the Valley as the situation has changed now. “Personally I feel that there is no role of army here now and it should go. I went to my native place Vichernag here.

Vidya Balan (L), Benazir Bhutto (R) Rahul Bhat . Image courtesy - bollywoodlife.com The people there welcomed me, they showered me with their love and affection,” Bhat said.

The actor, a Kashmiri Pandit himself, said the issue of the return of Kashmiri Pandits, who migrated from here 25 years ago

after the eruption of militancy, was a “psychological issue”.

“I would be very happy if the Pandits return and live here. I can see there is no problem, the brotherhood has not lessened. It is just a psychological issue,” he said.

Rani Mukerji meets Prince Charles at charity dinner in London

Rani Mukerji was felicitated at the dinner for her contribution to the fight against human trafficking.

Photo: Twitter Mumbai: Rani Mukerji, who is currently in London, attended a charity dinner on Tuesday hosted by The British Asian Trust at the Banqueting House.

The special charity event was also attended by Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall.

According to reports the non profit organization that focuses

on girl trafficking felicitated Rani for her contribution to the cause through her blockbuster film ‘Mardaani’.

Aslo present at the charity dinner was Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi. The actress wore a gold creation by one of her favourite designers Sabyasachi, and completed the look with scarlet lips and a neat

hairdo.

Last week Rani’s super hit from last year, Yash Raj Films’ ‘Mardaani’ premiered in Poland at the Kino Muranow theatre in Warsaw on 28th January.

The film will have its theatrical release in Poland on 5th February.

Courtesy: Deccan Chronicle

M

UMBAI: Vidya Balan who is gearing up for the release of ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani’ might have just hit the jackpot. The actress has got a number of offers.

According to a report in Midday, Vidya has been offered two biopics. One of them is about

the life of late actress Suchitra Sen, while the other one is on former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

The actress will essay the role of a simple, traditional Indian woman in ‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani’. Producer Mahesh Bhatt said, “‘Hamari Adhuri Kahani’

is a very emotional perspective on a traditional Indian woman.

She is your mangalsutra-wearing woman, who though works in a five star hotel as a florist, has still not gone out of that traditional space. I feel we have stopped looking at that woman.

We are only looking at the urban women in our films,”

Bangladesh cinemas ban top actor over Hindi film protests

D

HAKA, A F P - Bangladesh cinemas will boycott movies starring the nation’s top actor after he led protests against the first screening of a Hindi film in decades in the Muslim-majority nation, an official said Thursday.

Bollywood b l o c k b u s t e r Bangladesh protesters tear down posters of Bollywood movie ‘Wanted’. “Wanted” opened Photo courtesy:: onlineindus.com in cinemas on the weekend after India on financial grounds. dian films are hugely popular B a n g l a d e s h ’s censor board cleared its na“We’ve released Hindi films in Bangladesh, the ban on Hintionwide release, following a because we’re now facing (an) di movies continued after the 50-year ban on Hindi-language existential crisis,” said Saiful country gained independence films.

Islam Chowdhury, president in 1971.

The government briefly liftBut the screenings sparked of the Bangladesh Motion Piced the ban in 2010 after caving protests outside cinemas along tures Exhibitors Association. with wildcat strikes by hun“It’s unfortunate that Shakib into pressure from struggling dreds of Dhaka actors, direc- Khan, Misha Shawdagar and cinemas, hundreds of which tors and others, who said the other actors and directors have have shut down in recent years release would cripple the local used violence to try to prevent because of poor ticket sales. film industry, known as Dhal- us from showing Hindi films.”

But it was quickly re-imposed lywood. following furious protests by Chowdhury said the counBangladesh heartthrob try’s 350 film theatres “have local actors and directors, who Shakib Khan led the marches decided not to show any films claimed the Bangladesh film on cinemas, where protesters by Shakib Khan” along with industry was at risk from the ripped up Hindi film posters Shawdagar and several direc- imports. and pleaded with fans queue- tors.

Chowdhury said the governing at ticket booths to boycott ment had recently lifted the A court last year ruled “Wantthe film. ed” could be shown in Bangla- ban again under a free trade “We’ll stop Hindi films at desh, despite a prohibition on deal between South Asian any cost,” Khan was quoted as Hindi films dating back to a countries. saying by a local daily newspa- brief war between India and Given the censor board’s per Thursday.

Pakistan in 1965 when Bangla- clearance of “Wanted”, he preBangladesh cinema owners desh was part of East Pakistan. dicted that importers would reacted sharply, saying they The censor board gave be more emboldened to start would show not any movies “Wanted” the final go ahead in bringing in more Hindi films. starring Khan and the other November for screening this Khan said Thursday the ban protesters and defending their year. should remain to protect local decision to screen highly-popAlthough pirated CDs of In- movie industry, which producular flicks from neighbouring es around 60 films a year.

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VOICE OF ASIA 16

Friday, February 6, 2015

Section 2

Page 16

US doctors flag neurological risk in child virus cases

P

ARIS, AFP | 1/28/2015 US doctors on Thursday reported 12 cases of muscle weakness or paralysis among children in Colorado that may be linked to a nationwide outbreak of an usually rare respiratory virus.

Called EV-D68, the virus is a so-called non-polio enterovirus. Some viruses in this group have been found -- in a small number of people -- to cause meningitis, encephalitis or paralysis, as well as infection of the heart muscle or the sac surrounding it.

EV-D68 caused localised outbreaks of respiratory illness in Asia, Europe and the United States from 2008 to 2010.

It returned last August in a US-wide outbreak, which as of January 15 had caused 1,153 mild to severe respiratory illness cases, according to the latest figures on the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website.

Reporting online in UK medical journal The Lancet, physicians at the Children’s Hospital Colorado examined

12 cases of sick youngsters who had been admitted over a three-month period.

Roughly a week after falling ill with a fever and breathing difficulties, the 12 had varying degrees of muscle weakness in the arms and legs as well as facial paralysis or problems swallowing.

Eight of the 12 tested positive for enteroviruses or rhinoviruses, of which five were identified as EV-D68. Scans showed that 10 children had spinal cord lesions and brainstem lesions were seen in nine.

Despite treatment, all 10 with limb weakness still have problems.

“Over the past four years, our hospital has seen a maximum of four similar cases in any three-month period where children lose the use of one or both arms or legs. These 12 cases are three times that,” said Samuel Dominguez, a microbial epidemiologist.

“The extent to which this new distinctive neurological

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

disease has spread is unknown, but it does not appear to be isolated to Colorado or the USA,” Dominguez said in a statement distributed by The Lancet.

“Since the reporting of this cluster, 107 similar cases have been reported across the USA and one in France.”

Further work is needed to explore the apparent association between the virus and nerve dysfunction.

If the link is confirmed, Dominguez said, EV-D68 “will be added to the list of non-poliovirus enteroviruses capable of causing severe, potentially irreversible neurologic damage, and finding effective antiviral therapies and vaccines will be a priority.”

EV-D68 is found in faeces, saliva and nasal mucus, according to the CDC. Exposure comes from close contact with an infected person, through sneezes, coughing and shaking hands with them or touching surfaces that have the virus on it. There is currently no vaccine or targeted treatment.

Obama hails ‘boundless’ promise of precision medicine

W

ASHINGTON, AFP, 1/30/2015 President Barack Obama on Friday unveiled plans to plow $215 million into “precision medicine” research, a field he said provided “boundless” promise for the treatment of diseases like cancer and diabetes.

The field -- which aims to tailor treatment to individual patients -- “gives us one of the greatest opportunities for new medical breakthrough that we have ever seen,” Obama said.

The funding would be used in part to collect gene, biochemical, lifestyle and other data from one million volunteers.

Scientists believe that vast bank of information could then lead to better classification of diseases -- based on molecular causes rather than symptoms -- as well as tailored treatment that replaces a “one size fits all” approach.

The bulk of the money, $200 million, would go to the National Institutes of Health and its affiliate the National Cancer Institute.

Women and Heart Disease ing the magnitude and the seriousness of heart disease among women. As a result, often, women are under-treated.

by Nik Nikam, M.D. Heart disease is a leading cause of death among women (483,842 deaths in 2003), and accounts for 32% of all deaths. Nearly 500,000 women have heart attack each year.

How are women different?

Younger women have a lower incidence of heart disease compared to men, due to the hormonal protection against arterial blockage and high HDL cholesterol levels. However, after menopause, the incidence of heart disease among women is equal to that seen in men.

Thirty percent of the women are likely die following a heart attack in the first year in comparison to 25% of the men.

Women generally have smaller coronary arteries. As a result, women are twice as likely as men to have complications following cardiac surgery.

Women have microvascular disease that involves very tiny arteries that cannot be treated with angioplasty or bypass. None the less, they cause chest pain and shortness of breath. The treatment would include modification of risk factors to minimize the blockages in the small arteries.

Birth control pills can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke, especially in women with high blood pressure, diabetes and other risk factors.

There is lack of relative knowledge among physicians regard-

sure with salt restriction, weight control, and exercise before you need any medicines.

Overweight: It also can increase the risk of heart disease.

It increases the risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

Weight control reduces most of the above mentioned risk factors.

Keep you BMI below 25.

Diabetes: It is considered a very strong risk factor for heart disease. Strict control of diabetes can delay the rate at which most complications progress, including the development of heart disease symptoms.

Non invasive studies: Electrocardiograms are of limited value in accurately diagnosing heart disease Even regular treadmill stress test is not very helpful in excluding the heart disease, since 50% of the results can be false positive.

Nuclear stress test is more accurate in the diagnosis of heart disease. It also has limitations.

Most women may not be able to reach the desired target heart rate during exercise. Additionally, the breast shadows may create artifacts interfering with the proper interpretation of the scans.

Positron Emission Tomo-graphy (PET) may be useful in detecting microvascular disease.

CT angiography is a noninvasive study that can detect coronary artery disease with a 98% specificity. That means, if the CT angiography is normal, the chances of having significant coronary artery disease is less than 2%.

The ultimate approach would be cardiac catheterization which is considered the gold standard.

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Association recommends that women with heart disease should receive aspirin (165 mg), beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, in addition to cholesterol lowering drugs, multivitamins, and mineral therapy.

Hormone therapy has not been shown to reduce the incidence of heart disease. If hormones are primarily used for control of post menopausal symptoms, your physician may consider a lower dose hormone for the shortest possible duration.

Routine use of folic acid has not been shown to reduce the incidence of cardiovascular events.

Nikam’s Diet • Keep calorie intake to 1200- 1500 calories. Cut carbs.

• Reduce fat intake to less than 30% of total calories.

• Saturated fat should be less than 10% of total calories • Lean meat intake should be less than 8 ounce/day.

• Exercise 20 to 30 min, 3-4 time per week • Use skim milk and vegetables • Consider Omega-3 such as fish oil or Flax seeds/oil supplements • Fish: Salmon, mackerel, tuna 2-3 servings per week • A glass of red wine per day • Watch comedy channel • Quit smoking • Drink 8 glasses of water per day • Grilled meat in place of gravies • Niacin 500 to 1000 mg /day • Avoid egg yolk, organ meat, solid fats, canned foods • Salt intake less than 1 tsp/d Useful websites for more information on heart disease among women are: www.americanheart.org www. hartforwomen.org www.womenheart.org www.sugarlandheartcenter. com P: 281-265-7567, Email: drniknikam@gmail.com

Tel: 713-774-5140

Last Chance for the Obama Care Enrollment Types of Plans Continued Gold plans split covered expenses 80-20 on average.

Gold plans cost a little more, but the lower deductibles and better out-of-pocket cost sharing coverage means that families won’t have to worry about health care costs stopping them from their families getting the care they need. Even if your premium is capped you’ll have to pay more to make up the difference if you want a gold plan.

Gold plans are smart for those who don’t get CSR subsidies and need the low deductible and robust networks some gold plans provide.

Platinum plans split covered expenses 90-10 on average.

Platinum plans have the lowest out-of-pocket costs and the highest monthly premiums. This is the right choice for anyone who wants “the best coverage” for them and their family and is a smart buy for those who are sick or who have dependents who are likely to use costly health services. Even if your premium is capped you’ll have to pay more to make up the difference if you want a Platinum plan.

Platinum plans only make sense if your total medical spending will exceed the amount you will pay in premiums or if you need very specific treatments.

Catastrophic Coverage Catastrophic coverage is available to some people under 30 and those with hardship exemptions. Catastrophic plans only cover the bare minimum health benefits and has a very limited network. You’ll have high out-of-pocket costs and a high deductible but this type of plan will protect you in a worst case scenario and will ensure that you avoid paying the shared responsibly fee for not having health coverage. If you get a catastrophic plan you should assume most of your medical costs will be out-of-pocket.

NOTE: As a rule of thumb if you make less than 250% FPL a Silver plan is the way to go.

Since Texas didn’t expand Medicaid, if you make between 100% – 400% FPL you should use the marketplace.

Health insurance companies do not have to offer every tier of plan, but within the Texas health insurance Exchanges, all health insurance companies must offer at least one silver plan and one gold Advance Premium Tax Credits After the ten essential benefits provision, the next most important aspect of Obamacare is the “advance premium tax credit.” Also referred to as subsidies, premium tax credits act as a payment advance made by the government so that you can lower the cost of insurance premiums. If you earn between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty limit, then you qualify for cost assistance on the marketplace. This feature is only available on the health insurance exchange sites. You can take these payments up front, throughout the year or as a tax credit on your return in April.

Health Insurance Exchanges With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in 2013 came the creation of

Sudhir Mathuria Contact: Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6650 Southwest Freeway Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com websites designed specifically to help people find government-sponsored health insurance options, which can cost less than private plans. The websites are referred to as health insurance exchanges or marketplaces. Most people will use the federal site for enrollment, but 13 states plus the District of Columbia run their own exchange sites for enrollment.

Regardless of where you live, the exchange sites are used to browse through available plans in your area. Many of these plans cost less than what you might find off of the marketplace, and millions of families have taken advantage of the new system to find affordable coverage.

You simply enter your household information, income and other relevant data so that the site can give you options.

Enrollment on the exchange is easy and straightforward, but the government offers a convenient customer service line if you have trouble. There are also registered agents available locally to help people enroll when it’s time. We’ll discuss important deadlines and cost assistance, two important features of the marketplace, in separate sections below.

The Individual Mandate Funding for Obamacare comes primarily from taxes.

As such, the law was created with an “individual mandate” provision that requires eligible American citizens to purchase health insurance or pay a fine for non-compliance.

The fine is called a “shared responsibility fee.” If you don’t buy insurance, then you owe a payment to the government as your fair share for the system. This payment does not entitle you to any healthcare coverage even in emergencies.

The fee varies each year and is collected when you file your annual tax return.

In 2015, the fee jumps to 2 percent or $325 per individual. You can avoid paying the fee only if you meet special conditions as described on HealthCare.gov. However, most people will have to buy insurance or pay the fine.

Enrollment Deadlines If you want to comply with the law and avoid paying the penalty fee, then enroll in a health insurance plan during open enrollment. The Affordable Care Act sets out an open enrollment period each year.

For 2015, the enrollment ends Feb. 15, 2015. So do not wait. For prompt enrollment contact Sudhir Mathuria @ 713-771-2900.

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History: Most women do not have a classical exertion related chest pain. There is also a tendency in the medical field to attribute their symptoms to gastrointestinal problems such as gall stones, peptic ulcer, or stress. However, as an educated consumer, you want to ask your doctor to evaluate you for the heart disease risk factors and recommend tests to rule out heart disease.

Risk factors: The risk factors are cholesterol, diabetes, smoking, overweight, hypertension, and sedentary lifestyle.

Cholesterol: Cholesterol is the number one risk factor for heart disease both in men and women.

The total cholesterol should be less than 200 mg or less than 160 mg in patients with diabetes. The LDL or the bad cholesterol must be close to 70 mg to 80 mg. The HDL or the good cholesterol is usually high in younger women.

It should be more than 40 mg.

Triglycerides: Elevated triglycerides are considered an independent risk factor for heart disease among women. Elevated triglycerides are commonly seen in association with diabetes.

When diabetes is controlled, the triglyceride levels come down.

Other conditions that lead to elevated triglycerides would include excess carbohydrate or fatty diets and alcohol.

Smoking: Smoking doubles the risk of heart disease. The risk of heart disease drops by 50% percent after one year of quitting smoking.

Blood pressure: The normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg. You can reduce your blood pres-

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FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

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Obama budget: Higher US spending, tax hike for rich Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 2/2/2015 - 18:37 GMT | 586 words President Barack Obama’s 2016 budget unveiled Monday sets priorities for the middle class and proposes major infrastructure improvements, to be paid for largely through increased contributions by the wealthy and corporate America.

Republicans, who now control both chambers of Congress, are likely to balk at the wish list and criticize it as a return to liberal tax and spend policies.

The following is a breakdown of the main points of the budget proposal: - $4 trillion budget Obama’s budget for fiscal year 2016, which begins October 1, comes in at $3.999

trillion -- about 21.3 percent of gross domestic product, up from the current year’s 20.9 percent.

Some 70 percent of the spending is obligatory, as it covers public safety net programs such as Social Security and health coverage for the elderly (Medicare), as well as debt servicing.

The “discretionary spending” is $1.168 trillion, divided about

evenly between defense and non-defense programs.

He also proposes a “Preschool for All” initiative.

- Middle-class benefits Pledging new help for America’s struggling middle class, Obama wants to expand affordable child care, in part by tripling the child care tax credit, making it eligible for families making up to $120,000 annually. The change would help some 5.1 million families.

Among a series of educational pitches, he wants to make tuition at two-year community colleges free for many students.

GM receives over 4,100 injury claims for faulty ignitions New York, AFP - General Motors said Monday that it had received more than 4,100 compensation claims for injuries tied to faulty ignitions, including 455 death claims, by its January 31 deadline.

Lawyers for many victims have already filed a number of class-action suits that could cost the company far more than its promised payouts under the compensation program.

GM set aside $400 million in claims-related provisions in its 2014 accounts. The largest US automaker is scheduled to report fourth-quarter and fullyear earnings ahead of the market opening early Wednesday.

But so far only 128 of the claims have been deemed eligible for compensation.

Kenneth Feinberg, the attorney in charge of the independent compensation fund set up by GM after recalling 2.6 million cars over the ignitionswitch problem since February, reported 51 death claims so far were ruled eligible for compensation, and 110 were under review.

The largest US automaker, which has been taking claims for compensation from victims of the flawed vehicles for six months, reported total claims of 4,180 as of Sunday, the day after the deadline.

Fund spokeswoman Amy Weiss noted that it was too soon to know the final numbers, saying that “many” claims were still arriving through the postal system. The claims had to be postmarked by January 31 to be eligible for consideration.

Feinberg told Bloomberg television that hundreds of claims had been received in the last 10 days and it would take “at least a few months to process all of those claims.”

The deadline passed despite a plea by two Democratic lawmakers last week for GM to extend it again to ensure all possible victims of accidents linked to the ignition problem, which dates back to the early 2000s, would have a chance to apply.

The company already had extended the deadline by one month.

GM launched the compensation claims program after acknowledging the faulty ignition switch could turn off power to a car’s power steering and safety airbags while it is in motion.

It took GM nearly 11 years before beginning to recall the cars after hundreds of possible accidents and deaths were reported.

Feinberg said that he was not surprised that GM had originally reported only 13 deaths related to the problem, because the company had been looking at a direct link to the flawed ignition switches.

- Circumstantial evidence weighed The compensation fund, by contrast, he explained, is focused on “proximate cause” or circumstantial evidence between the switch defects and the deaths and injuries. “We’re much more generous,” he added.

Feinberg declined to estimate the final price tag of the GM compensation program.

GM will pay a minimum $1 million for the victim, $300,000 for the surviving spouse and another $300,000 for each surviving dependent.

Financial and medical treatment compensation of at least $20,000 will also be offered to those with eligible physical injury claims from an accident.

As of Sunday, eight claims for crippling injuries such as brain damage or double amputation were deemed eligible, out of 278 filed.

Sixty-nine

out

of

3,447

claims for hospitalisation or outpatient medical treatment were eligible.

Of the total 128 claims deemed eligible, “there is not one person who has turned down the compensation,” Feinberg said. Anyone accepting compensation from the fund

waives the right to sue GM. GM is under investigation by Congress, regulators and the Justice Department over why it waited more than a decade after first uncovering the ignitionswitch problem to start recalling cars.

Last year GM recalled more than 30 million cars worldwide, a record, for problems with the ignition switch and other problems.

Despite the recalls, consumers snapped up GM cars last year, pushing the company to record sales of 9.92 million vehicles.

- Defense A total of $585 billion is set aside for military spending, while $53.4 billion is meant for State Department programs and other international operations.

Obama’s Pentagon budget marks an increase of more than four percent over 2015, but with wars declared over in Iraq and Afghanistan, the spending is 24 percent lower than in 2010, when adjusted for inflation.

The year-on-year increase is aimed in part at ending the restrictions on defense spending that were imposed by funding caps beginning in 2013.

Operation Inherent Resolve, the mission targeting the extremist Islamic State group in Iraq and Syria, is funded at $5.3 billion.

Assistance to Ukraine, aimed at “countering Russian aggressive acts,” comes in at $117 million, in addition to the $1 billion loan guarantees provided to Kiev last year and a similar forthcoming loan in 2015.

Fourteen billion dollars is set aside to counter cyber-attacks, while $70.2 billion is directed to Veterans Affairs programs, a hike of 7.8 percent.

- Infrastructure “Built by far-sighted investment over generations, America’s world-class infrastructure is falling behind the rest of the world,” the budget statement acknowledges.

Obama is requesting $478 billion over six years to make significant repairs and to build new bridges, roads, and railways.

The program aims to speed infrastructure permitting and expand public-private collaboration on such projects.

- Paying for it The White House proposes a series of tax reforms -- among them, increasing the top tax bracket for capital income to 28 percent, from 23.8 percent, and closing a loophole that permits heirs to avoid taxes on capital gains.

On the business side, Obama’s tax reform would encourage companies to repatriate their profits to the United States, with a one-time “transition toll charge” of 14 percent on the nearly $2 trillion of untaxed foreign earnings made by US firms abroad.

Such future profits would be taxed at a minimum of 19 percent, and could be reinvested in the United States without additional tax burden.

The corporate tax rate would drop from 35 percent to 28 percent, aligning more closely with other industrialized nations.

HOROSCOPE

VOICE OF ASIA 18

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

Your Horoscope for the Week of February 6, 2015

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

READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM

Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct

Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April Your emotional attitude and the confusion, may cause to others around you. Go after your goals. You can make money if you produce services or goods that make domestic chores easier. Get together with friends and you will find out something about someone from your past. You’ll be angry about financial matters that concern joint accounts or outrageous contributions. If your mate can’t control their spending habits, limit credit card privileges. Be honest with yourself and your family.

Your ability to sit back, observe and proceed to follow your own best interests. Try not to become too involved in other people’s private doings. Don’t confide in your peers. Your reluctance to do what they want will lead to discord and a possible loss of friendship. Don’t be too quick to follow the crowd. You can make sound financial investments if you act fast. You can make financial gains if you are realistic about your assets. Real estate investments can be bought or sold.

Scorpio (N,Y)23 Oct to 21 Nov

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May It is important to Use your ability to clear up small but important details. You will feel much more comfortable in social settings if you know your work is up to date. Get your body moving. Join a club or buy a good work-out tape. It’s time to take control of your life and your appearance. Use your discipline to achieve the image you want. You’ll want to spend too much on entertainment. Safe investments will be your salvation. Spend quality time with someone you love. It’s time to let your true feelings be known.

The tension will mount and the information you receive will be informative. Limitations are likely if you’ve been difficult to get along with, lately. By week’s end, pleasurable activities should be on your dance card. Your relatives will be more helpful than you ever thought possible. Sit back and listen. The information you receive will be informative and eye-opening regarding your current situation. Talk to individuals who are already in that position. You can gain an inside look at the pitfalls of being your own boss.

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

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June Keep an open mind and go with the flow. You can turn your ideas into cash if you are willing to work hard. People will be interested in supporting your efforts. Don’t misinterpret their interest in you. Don’t let your independent nature hold you back from asking for some needed help. Your intuition will lead you in the right direction, don’t be afraid to start something new. Lady Luck is in your corner. You can raise the value of your home if you do some renovations.

Your need to be an observer, not a disturber. Accept the inevitable and prepare yourself to make the necessary adjustments. Expect delays if you are not organized and ready to roll. Keep your thoughts to yourself. Don’t believe everything you hear. Stick to what you know and focus on getting ahead. Partners won’t be too eager to help you.

Don’t take on more than you can handle. You’d be best to spend some quiet time catching up on the little things you never find time to do. Don’t feel obligated to take care of everyone else.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Take actions, now. Don’t hesitate to be a little aggressive. It may put a spark back into your personal life. Changes at work may set you off, causing upset on the home front if you aren’t careful. You mustn’t dwell on situations that don’t involve your loved ones.

Don’t leave things to the last minute and then worry about the outcome. You’ll be upset if someone has borrowed something that belongs to you without asking first. Try not to lose your cool, but make your point known. You may find the tables turned at a later date.

Take time to organize your financial situation and look over your personal papers.

Real estate deals will turn out to be lucrative. Develop one of your unique ideas, talk to those who might be able to contribute to your efforts. You need to present your work if you want to prosper. Confusion about money or a joint venture will leave you feeling upset. Attend a lecture, greater self-awareness will be the result of the knowledge you receive. Don’t stretch the truth, you may get blamed for something you didn’t do.

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

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August You need to move after your goals. Don’t let anyone stand in the way of your success.

Do your own research and don’t leave anything to chance. Follow through with your plans and don’t overlook any details. Check your options and re-evaluate your motives.

You’re too generous with others. Revamp your finances, you’ll have to be creative in order to keep your current lifestyle. You’ll be the center of attention. You can gain popularity if you attend functions that are related to your chosen field.

Deal with overindulgent individuals, Your colleagues may cause frustration if they appear to be working against you. Don’t allow them get away with a “poor me” attitude with you.

Leadership can be yours if you put additional work into organizations you belong to. You may have to spread yourself a little thin, but it will be worth it in the long run. Stress will cause fatigue. You can achieve much if you are willing to direct your attention toward your hobbies or self-improvement projects. Don’t let those you live with back you into a corner.

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

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September Use your own initiative, Waiting for others will be a waste of time. Extravagance and time will work against you. Positive action to alleviate concerns about aging can be dealt with through a fitness program. You’ll feel better about yourself if you make changes. Don’t make unrealistic promises. Join groups. You will meet people who will listen to your ideas and contribute as well. You’ll have no difficulty borrowing money or possessions.

Sudden changes in your financial picture and position in life are apt to happen if you have executed your intentions carefully.

QR

Believe in yourself and your work. Do so and others will follow you. You’ll meet some new interesting people, present your ideas to them. You’ll be surprised at the positive response you receive. Joint financial ventures may turn sour, salvage what you can. Don’t spend too much on entertainment or gambling. You’ll have to curb some of your habits. You’ll need the extra cash if you overextended yourself. More money can be yours if you are willing to go after a higher-paying job that requires more responsibilities. You may be taken advantage of if you aren’t discriminating about your friends.

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* Repair/ Remodeling * New Installation * Ceiling Fans * Light Fixtures * Electric Panel * Trouble Shooting * Services Upgrades

Faith & Worship Houston Tamil Church (.org)

• Welcome to our Sunday Worship Service @ 10 AM • Bible Study / Sunday School @ 9 AM • VBS Classes August 13, 14, and 15.

Rev. Duraimony Dickson • (281)208-8924

A full service CPA firm

3 Locations to serve you

281-242-1928 & 832-605-3031

Restaurants India’s Restaurant & Catering

for special parties and corporate events. Preferred Wine list, Authentic vegetarian & non-vegetarian dishes, finest Indian cuisine with chef’s special dishes

Restaurants

Ph: 713-266-0131/ 0805

We cater from 10 people to 800 people for all occasions.

We deliver to your venue.

Houston 713-774-6533 Spring 281-251-2205 Dallas 214-722-7545

visit us at : www.mdassociatescpas.com

Madhuram Mirch Masala 10758 FM 1960 West Houston, TX 77070 281.955.9878 216.338.3940 (cell)

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Computer Services Computer Repair & Networking: Microsoft MCSE & A+ certified, low flat rates, free estimates, pickup & delivery; Web Design & Online Marketing: Increase your sales by search engine optimization. Certified in Yahoo & Google Adwords, PCNetworkGuru.com, Call Amit at 832-971-6807

Shiva Indian Restaurant & Catering

You need this Space

specializing in North Indian cuisine, Office and Corporate catering.

For more information

• 2130 Lone Star Dr. Sugar Land, Ph: 281-494-2981

Call us today

713-774-5140

• 2514 Times Blvd. Rice Village, Ph: 713-523-4753

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CLASSIFIEDS

VOICE OF ASIA 19

Part Time Accountant Property Management Company in Houston is looking for a part-time accountant with the following qualifications: • Degree in Accounting or Business preferred.

• Must have good working knowledge of Quickbooks and Excel.

When you find some time, READ!

• Experience in generating financial reports & bookkeeping.

• Other duties as assigned.

Good compensation for an experienced person

To apply please email your resume to:

princeville.investments@gmail.com (Please indicate in the subject line: “Accounting Position”)

Now You Know!

Amazing facts from all over the WORLD!

• Goldfish can see both infrared and ultraviolet light.

• Elvis’s middle name was Aron.

• Dragonflies have 6 legs but can’t walk.

• An octopus pupil is rectangular.

• A group of owls is called a parliament.

Free community events on: www.voiceofasiaonline.com Calendar!

Got a favorite fact? Let us know!

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READ DAILY! 15 - 30 minutes of reading daily helps your brain focus better. Grab a novel!

A Community message from Voice of Asia Group

FRIDAY, February 6, 2015

MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY FROM HBR.ORG Are You Sure You’re Not a Micromanager?

If you’re like most micromanagers, you don’t even realize what you’re doing. Some signs should make it clear: You’re never satisfied with deliverables. You get frustrated when you would’ve done something differently.

You laser in on details and take pride in making corrections. You want to be Cc’d on emails. But while you need to make sure work gets done, you don’t have to drill down on the details all the time. That only hurts your team’s morale and productivity.

To stop micromanaging, start letting go of the minutiae. This can be hard, but the key is to do it a little at a time. Articulate what you want the final outcome to be, but don’t give step-by-step instructions on how someone should get there. Focus on setting people up for success. Provide resources and support, and give credit where it’s due.

Adapted from “Signs That You’re a Micromanager” by Muriel Maignan Wilkins.

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713-774-5140

Know Your Words

Here’s your chance to be a Vocabulary Sleuth!

Jaundiced - cynical; pessimistic Nettle - annoy Elusive - hard to pin down.

Visit us on www.VoiceofAsia Online.com

News Anchor/ Reporter KTRK-TV, the ABC/Disney owned station in Houston, TX is looking for an outstanding News Anchor/Reporter. The ideal candidate should have at least 3 years experience as a News Anchor and 5 years experience as a General Assignment Reporter. Must display excellent, dynamic, creative live reporting skills. Must be able to develop contacts, enterprise good, hard news stories and respond well to spot news. This position requires outstanding writing skills for both broadcast and digital platforms. Needs to be very active on social media. Must be willing to work weekends.

This is an excellent opportunity to join a first-class station and live in a fun and affordable city. To be considered candidates must apply on-line at www.disneycareers.com by uploading a resume file. Reference Job ID: 247104BR on all materials submitted. Email a sample of your most recent work to ktrk.hr@abc.com or send a non-returnable sample to: Human Resources, KTRK-TV, 3310 Bissonnet; Houston, TX 77005. Equal Opportunity Employer – Female/ Minority/ Veteran/ Disability. No Telephone Calls.

Bellicose - war-like; aggressive Jaunt- short pleasure trip

Free community events on: www.voiceofasiaonline.com Calendar!

Got a favorite word? Let us know!

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VOICE OF ASIA

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Fax this form to: 713-774-5143 Scan and E-mail us: ads@voiceofasiagroup.com

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FRIDAY, February 6, 2015