Voice of Asia Newsweekly e paper September 9 2016 by VoiceOf Asia

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Vol. 29 No. 37 Friday, September 9, 2016 • Published Weekly from Houston • 713-774-5140 20 Pages ( 2 sections) 50 cents E-mail: voiceasia@aol.com

ASEAN Summit in Loas: President Obama to meet Modi by Andrew BEATTY IENTIANE, Laos | AFP | 9/7/2016- President Barack Obama attends a farewell dinner with Southeast Asian leaders Wednesday, capping eight years of careful courtship that has created new friends, but left links frayed with America’s oldest regional ally -- Thailand. When Obama looks around the gala dinner table in Vientiane, he will find a bevy of new partners. His engagement with former Communist foes in Vietnam and now Laos is slowly easing the bloody burden of history, in much the same way as his opening to Cuba. More striking still will be the presence of Myanmar’s de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who spent much of the last three decades held prisoner by a brutal military junta. Obama’s engagement with Myanmar -- a country he has twice visited -- has butressed a political transformation, helping convince the generals to share power with Suu Kyi’s democrat-

US President Obama and PM Narendra Modi are expected to hold bilateral meeting on Thursday US President Barack Obama will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit in Vientiane, Laos, the White House has said. “In the afternoon, the President will hold a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India,” the White House said in its daily guidance released to the press.

US President Barack Obama (L) and South Korean President Park Geun-hye (R) hold a meeting in Vientiane, Laos, on September 6, 2016. ically elected government. “Just sitting back and criticizing countries has a limit in terms of what it can achieve,” said Ben Rhodes, an Obama aide who has

worked closely on the US’ policy to Myanmar. Where George W. Bush routinely skipped meetings with Southeast Asian heads of state,

Obama -- perhaps unsurprisingly for someone who spent a chunk of his childhood in Indonesia -has been a regular visitor. But the trips have not all been plain sailing, as Obama was reminded this week when he was labelled a “son of a whore” by firebrand Philippine leader Rodrigo Duterte. Yet experts say it is Thailand that represents the starkest failure to leverage US diplomatic power in the region. Two military coups in quick succession have damaged relations with Bangkok, a treaty ally

and regional powerhouse whose relations with Washington date back more than 180 years. The US has not been able to prod the generals into restoring elections or easing controls on dissent. Notoriously prickly junta leader, Prayut Chan-O-Cha, has also frequently bristled at US criticism of the darkening human rights environment in his country. Even the smallest diplomatic slight, perceived or imagined, has the ability to sour relations further.

When Prime Minister Prayut talked to Obama on the margins of the US-ASEAN summit in Sunnylands, California, this year, US and Thai sources said the junta leader felt bridges were being rebuilt following the coup. But on landing in Bangkok he was furious when told a midlevel State Department official had publicly berated his government’s human rights record. A Thai official told AFP that public opinion in his country could ultimately swing against the United States.

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by MARI YAMAGUCHI September 7, 2016

OKYO (AP) — The newly crowned Miss World Japan is hardly a typical Japanese woman. Being half-Indian is only part of it.

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

AP Interview: Newly crowned Miss Japan proud of Indian roots

Priyanka Yoshikawa, crowned Monday after outshining more than 6,900 other applicants, has a certificate in elephant training, teaches English to children, enjoys kickboxing and volunteers as a translator at medical meetings. The 22-year-old is preparing for the worldwide pageant in Washington, D.C., in November. Being fitted for a couture gown for the event is part of the program, but fashion plays a small role in Yoshikawa’s life. And she doesn’t want to fit into any stereotype. She told The Associated Press on Wednesday that being in a beauty contest is a way to achieve her ambitions: Go to Bollywood, while pursuing her goal of building a children’s home in India. A national debate was sparked in largely homogeneous Japan last year when Ariana Miyamoto, a halfAmerican of African descent, was chosen Miss Universe Japan, another international beauty contest. Miyamoto faced criticism that she doesn’t look Japanese enough, even though she mostly grew up in Japan and speaks the language perfectly. So far, Yoshikawa has faced less criticism. She says her victory is perhaps a sign that Japan is becoming more tolerant of diversity. “I think (being mixed race) is getting more acceptable,” she said, citing her victory as the second in a row. It’s a matter of “who can represent your country (best) and I think that’s the answer,” she said after a fitting at a Tokyo dressmaker’s office and discussing the design of her gown for the

Newly crowned Miss World Japan Priyanka Yoshikawa smiles as she speaks during an interview with The Associated Press in Tokyo, Wednesday, Sept. 7, 2016. Yoshikawa is hardly a typical Japanese woman. Being half-Indian is only a part of that. Yoshikawa, who was crowned Monday, Sept. 5, has a certificate in elephant training, teaches English to children, enjoys kickboxing and volunteers as a translator at medical meetings. (AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi)

November event. She did think about her identity at length, but being called “hafu,” or half, a term in Japanese for people of mixed-race, doesn’t bother her, though it sometimes has negative connotations. Her roots have expanded her cultural experiences and perspective, she said. While traveling in Asia, she is often mistaken as a local, while in Japan she is constantly scrutinized, Yoshikawa said. Japanese people seem to have stereotypes of how Japanese, Asians, or Americans should look. “I just let it go ... you can be anything now. We are all the same human beings.” Japanese with foreign roots or cultural backgrounds have faced discrimination, though less so as global exchanges prompt more international marriages. Mixed-race Japanese Olympians earned medals for Japan at the Rio Games.

Yoshikawa, who has an Indian father and a Japanese mother, grew up mostly in Japan but spent one year in India and three years in America. She says living overseas gave her a broader perspective, but that she still calls Japan home. What struck her the most was a year in Kolkata. As a 9-yearold girl, she saw her peers living in poverty, up close. “That totally changed my life. If I didn’t live in India, or India was not inside me or part of me, I don’t think I would have been here talking as Miss World Japan,” she said. “Living in India has changed everything, how I see the world, how I want to live, my vision.” After returning to Japan with her family, cleanliness and safety here struck her again. She says the stark difference inspired her to work for a

change — to improve the lives of children in India. To help send her message out, Yoshikawa hopes the elephant training license on her resume will catch attention because, she says, there will be more mixed-race people in Japan and that will no longer be a way to stand out. The license, which she obtained in Laos, is not just a decoration. She loves elephants, in part because of her Indian roots, and can ride an elephant with a passenger on the back and can bathe them. “That’s me, I can do that.” Beyond Miss World, she wants to achieve her ambitions in India — in Bollywood’s film industry and Kolkata. “I would like to go into that industry. I need to learn dancing and Hindi but yes, of course I love to try anything,” she said.

- The Publisher

THE STORY OF MAHATMA GANDHI

Gandhi’s arrest creates sensation worldwide Newspaper reporters from every corner of the world were there to report the progress of the Gandhi’s satyagraha. The march ended on April 5 at Dandi village. Gandhi and his selected followers went to the sea shore and broke the salt law by picking up salt left on the shore by the sea.

Only a few people knew how to make salt, but the people soon found their own ways of making it. All that mattered was the breaking of the salt law Gandhi and other leaders had made arrangements for the continuation of the agitation if they were arrested. A chain of leaders had been chosen, so that as each leader was arrested another would be ready to take his place. The government waited for some time before taking any action, and then at last retaliation began. Gandhi was left at liberty, but many other leaders were taken into custody. Jawaharlal, Mahadev Desai, and Gandhi’s son Devadas were the first to pick up salt to break the law be sent to jail. In dealing with the break-

was taken to Yeravda Central Jail. So Gandhi was not there for the raid on the Dharasana salt deposits. The salt deposits were surrounded by barbed-wire fencing and protected by four hundred Indian policemen armed with steel-toed lathis (canes). A few British officers were in command of them.

Gandhi then gave a signal to all Indians to break the salt law and prepare to resist the police action in a nonviolent manner. Now read on: All over India people swarmed to the nearest sea coast to break the salt law. Great excitement was created everywhere.

Great Summer Project For children! Enter Mahatma Gandhi Week 2016 Essay, I-Tribute, Poster and Speech contests. Visit gandhilibrary.org for registration and more information. All school going children can participate! These contests are being organized to create higher awareness of the inspiring life and work of Mahatma Gandhi to promote universal values of Truth, Non-Violence, Love and Service. Call 713-785-3900 or visit www.mahatmagandhilibrary.org

ers of the salt law, the police resorted to their usual brutal methods. The Indian National Congress was declared illegal. Some newspapers, threatened with censorship, suspended publication. The people held hartaals (strikes) and demonstrations, and mass arrests were made. Soon the jails were filled to overflowing. The people remained nonviolent, lest Gandhi should call off the movement. Gandhi then informed the Viceroy that he was going to raid the government salt works at Dharasana. Lord Irwin decided to act. Two English officers, with pistols, accompanied by many Indian policemen armed with rifles, arrived at Gandhi’s camp in the middle of the night. They woke up Gandhi and said, “You are under arrest.” Gandhi

Gandhi’s volunteers halted some distance away from the fencing. Then a selected group of them advanced towards the barbed-wire fence. Police officials ordered the volunteers to disperse but they ignored the warning. Suddenly the police rushed at them and rained blow after blow on the defenseless men. Not one of the volunteers even raised an arm to stop the blows. They fell down, some with broken skulls, some with broken shoulders, arms, or legs. The waiting crowd groaned.

from all parts of the world to the British Prime Minister asking the government to release Gandhi and make peace with India.

a victory for nonviolent resistance. But some of Gandhi’s Congress followers thought that he had not gained much as a result of the pact.

Even those who were cooperating with the British demanded the release of Gandhi.

Gandhi was designated as the sole representative of the Congress to the Round Table Conference. In August 1931 he sailed for London with a small party.

Gandhi proved to be more dangerous inside the jail than outside. While he sat quietly in Yeravda Jail, countrywide outbreaks of civil disobedience were greatly taxing the British. The jails were full to overflowing. The government was in distress and finally, in 1931, had to release Gandhi, Nehru, and other leaders. As soon as Gandhi was out of prison he asked for an interview with the Viceroy, Lord Irwin. The interview was immediately given. Gandhi and Irwin met, but the two men seemed to have come from two different worlds.

Gandhi’s arrest had created a great sensation in India and abroad.

Gandhi did not go to seek any favors. He wanted to negotiate on terms of equality. The meeting went on for many days and finally the talks culminated in a treaty, the Gandhi-Irwin Pact. It embodied compromises made by both sides. Irwin agreed to release all the political prisoners, and Gandhi promised to suspend civil disobedience and send a Congress representative to the Round Table Conference. For at that time, in London, the British government was holding a Round Table Conference on the future of India.

Representations were sent

The Gandhi-Irwin Pact was

When the entire first batch had been knocked down and carried off on stretchers, another batch advanced to meet the same fate. The campaign went on for hours. Finally, as the heat of the day increased, the volunteers stopped their activities for that day. Among the volunteers two had died and 320 were injured.

to India towards her goal of Swaraj. The Conference played up the differences between Hindus and Muslims, and this only served to worsen communal tension in India. Gandhi returned with nothing except warm goodwill for India from the hearts of many English people.

Gandhi went to England with the object of reaching an agreement with the British on a fair Constitution for India and also of winning the hearts of the British people. In his first object he failed, and in the second he met with great success.

At home, Gandhi found that the government had returned to the policy of repression.

Gandhi spent 84 days in England and most of the time he was meeting and talking to people. Prime Minister Winston Churchill refused to see him but Gandhi captivated the hearts of many.

Early in 1932 Gandhi wanted to meet the new Viceroy, Lord Willlingdon, but the Viceroy made it clear that the days of negotiations were over.

He had tea with the King and Queen. When a reporter asked him if he thought he had been dressed well enough for such an august tea party, Gandhi replied, “The King had on enough for both of us.”

There were widespread arrests and seizure of property and bank accounts of people and organizations who were hostile to British interests.

Gandhi informed the authorities that he was again starting a civil disobedience movement. The Viceroy thought it was a threat and had Gandhi arrested and lodged in Yeravada Central Jail. Several other leaders and many followers of Gandhi were also arrested and jailed.

At the Round Table Conference nothing was conceded

— To be Continued

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Mahatma Gandhi Library holds its annual Speech Contest on Saturday, September 24

OUSTON - Mahatma Gandhi Library holds its annual Speech Contest on Saturday, September 24, 2016. It will be held starting at 8:30 AM at The Ismaili Jamatkhana and Center located at 1700 First Colony Blvd, Sugar Land TX 77479. The topics for this year contest are as follows: Age 10 and below - Truth: My Story Age 11 and above - Non-Violence: Means of Conflict Resolution The registration is still open. So if you want to register please visit www.gandhjilibrary.org. Please be sure to attend the contest to watch these young speakers deliver inspiring speeches. The winners of the contest will deliver their

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Consul General Ray honors Pt. Suman Ghosh -Renowned Hindustani Classical Maestro and Path finding Guru Suresh Raghavan, parent of Pandit ji’s student reflected on his association with the Guru and his unconditional commitment to his students, “He breathes life into CICMH,” he said. Sangita Vennelakanti, another parent also expressed her thoughts about Pandit ji’s as “A path-finding guru who can transform lives.”

speeches at the celebration of “Gandhi Jayanti”(Gandhi ji’s birthday) as 1000 Lights for Peace on Sunday, October 2, 2016. It will take place at the The Miller Outdoor Theatre located at 6000 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030 from 5 PM to 8 PM. The finale of the program will be lighting of the candle by each person as pledge to practice truth and non-violence in one’s own life. Please find attached a flyer for the same. To learn more about the program and celebrations please visit www.gandhilibrary. org. For additional inquiries, please contact Rakesh Agarwal, Speech Contest Coordinator at 713-516-6547 or write to him at agarwal100@yahoo. com. Alternately, please contact Namita Sutaria, Media Coordinator, at (281) 773-8009 or write to her at namitasutaria@ hotmail.com.

Speaking on the occasion, Pat Jasper, Folklorist, Executive Director of the Houston Arts Alliance’s Folklife and Traditional Arts said about Pandit Ghosh “You have expanded the quality and mastery that this city is able to enjoy your amazing work.” Sonal Bhuchar, Former, Fort Bend ISD Trustee, also spoke in praise if Pandit

Consul General of India, Houston Dr. Anupam Ray (left) with Pandit Suman Ghosh at CG’s residence. Photo credit: Indian Consulate, Houston Office.

Sienna Plantation’s Most Favorite Person-Shijimon Jacob The winner of this contest will receive a $5,000 gift,which, if I win, have decided to donate this prize money to the American Indian Charity Trust.

Shijimon Jacob hijimon Jacob has been selected as the finalist for the most favorite and influential person in Sienna Plantation.

This is a charity very close to my heart. This charity was founded in 1997 and it provides financial assistance to economically disadvantaged students,provides housing for the homeless,helps provide medical assistance ,and provides shelter for orphans. Among its many accomplishments,this charity has awarded scholarships to more than 100,000 school aged children and 10,000 college students.

Guruma Shashikala Ghosh seated with Pat Jasper and guests. by Shobana Muratee

OUSTON - On Friday, August 26th evening, Consul General of India, Houston Dr. Anupam Ray hosted a reception at his residence to honor Pandit Suman Ghosh. Consul General spoke about the significance Pandit ji’s music and his mission. Rich tributes were paid to Pandit Ghosh by parents

of his students, fellow artists Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri and Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, via video recognizing his contributions in the enrichment of Hindustani Classical Music, both as a path finding guru and a performer of repute. Founder of Center for Indian Classical Music of Houston (CICMH), Pandit Ghosh has upheld the Saadhana Pariwar’s traditions with the blessings of

Students of CICMH performing at the reception. Photos by SM his Guru, Padma Vibhushan Pandit Jasraj Ji who proclaims that his work will live on because of his disciple Pandit Ghosh. Pandit Ghosh’s disciples gave a fitting tribute to their Guru on the occasion and were pleasantly surprised when their guru accompanied them on the harmonium. The program was eloquently emceed by Sunanda.

Ghosh. The CICMH is gearing up for its upcoming Saadhana Unmesh – a grand stage to showcase the disciples’ musical blossoming and a testament to Pandit Ghosh’s legacy to Indian Classical Music, on October 15, 2016, Raghavan announced. For more information on CICMH visit www.panditsumanghosh.com

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

Parent is not responsible for damages caused by a child Q. What are my legal rights as far as forcing the parents of a child my son was playing with to pay his medical bills? My five year-old son was playing on their property with other children, and was hit in the eye by a ball thrown by their son. Shouldn’t their homeowners insurance pay for this injury? A. As a general rule, the parents of a young child are not responsible for injuries caused by that child. For the parent to be responsible, the injury must have resulted from the parent’s failure to properly supervise the children. In other words, if your son was injured due to an accident that occurred between two five year olds playing with others in the yard, the parents probably have no liability. On the other hand, if the parent was not watching the children and that is why the injury resulted, the parents would be liable. The fact that the accident occurred on their property also does not matter. A property owner is not automatically liable for accidents on his property. To establish responsibility you would need to show negligence or fault on the part of the owner. I also should point out that these liability rules are not affected by whether the family has homeowner’s insurance. The existence of insurance does not alter the laws regarding liability. Insurance simply pays amounts for which the homeowner would otherwise be responsible. Q. I cashed a refund check

from a national flooring company at a local check-cashing facility. The owner informed me the check was returned from the bank as insufficient funds, when it was presented for payment. The owner of the check-cashing store is now asking ME for reimbursement. The “flooring” company has stated they are the only one that is responsible for the validity of the check and that I shouldn’t attempt to rectify anything regarding this check. The owner of the check-cashing store wants to take me to court instead of speaking with the people who wrote the check. Can you help me? A. I can tell you what the law says but you probably will not like it. Whenever you give someone a check and sign your name, you become a “drawer” and are responsible for the amount of the check. If your bank does not pay it, for example, you don’t have sufficient funds in your account, the person to whom you gave he check has the right to sue you based on your signature on the check. The person who you gave the check to could not sue your bank for not paying. The legal rule is that only people who sign a check can be held responsible. Liability becomes a little more complicated when the check is transferred (negotiated) to another party. When you gave the check to the check cashing store in exchange for cash, you transferred the check to the store and you indorsed it on the bank. That “indorsement” is a signature, and now you also become liable if the check is

not paid. After you indorse the check both you, as an “indorser,” and the flooring company who wrote the check, the “drawer,” are liable. I suggest you tell the flooring company you expect them to promptly pay the check-cashing facility, which will then return the check to them. If the flooring company does not pay, you are responsible and could be sued. If you were sued, you should bring the flooring company into the lawsuit. Q. How is child support computed? Does the court look at things like overtime pay, and “extra” income? My soon to be ex says that only regular income is included. A. Child support is computed from all “net resources.” This basically includes any income received from any source. It includes overtime pay, and any other income from any source, including things like rent, interest, dividends and even gifts and prizes. The amount is reduced, however, by any taxes or social security that is paid. Once the court determines the amount of net resources, state guidelines recommend the amount to be paid for child support. For one child, the amount is 20%, and 5% is added for each additional child.

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VOICE OF ASIA 7

Indian-American CEO charged for ill-treating maid

ASHINGTON, Sep 8,2016 PTI - An Indian-American CEO of an IT staffing and consulting firm was charged with callous treatment of a domestic worker. The Department of Labor in its complaint alleged that Himanshu Bhatia, the CEO for Rose International and IT Staffing, underpaid her domestic service worker. According to the complaint filed by U.S. Labor Secretary Thomas E. Perez on August

The Indian government today announced it will now allow people to upload their driving license and car registration card to DigiLocker, its secure digital cloud storage service. These digital copies of their documents will be deemed valid by traffic police and other law enforcement agencies. The move effectively frees people from the hassle of carrying paper documents everywhere they go. Those who want to avail the feature will need to install DigiLocker app on their phone, and link their phone number with it. The officials will also have an app to seamlessly verify documents from the National Register of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The feature is available starting today. The inclusion of driver license and registration card

UC Berkeley dean who violated sexual harassment policies returns to campus Sorrell’s case paved the way for other victims of harassment on the elite campus to come forward, and the provost and chancellor both stepped down in the wake of accusations that the administration mishandled her case.

22, the worker, identified as Sheela Ningwal, was subject to abuse at home. She was forced to sleep in the garage with Ms. Bhatia’s dogs when she was ill, and was left without food when Ms. Bhatia left her residence for days, the complaint alleged. Additionally, Ms. Bhatia confiscated Ms. Ningwal’s passport, restricting her free movement. Ms. Bhatia terminated Ms. Ningwal’s contract in December 2014 when she caught the latter researching the topic of “labour laws”, said the complaint.

India is getting rid of physical driver licenses with smartphones If you drive a vehicle in India, you won’t have to fret about forgetting your driver’s license or car registration papers any more.

DIASPORA

underscores the expansion of DigiLocker, a service that the Indian government launched last year to allow people in the country to store a range of their official documents in the cloud. Through DigiLocker, the government is providing its citizens 1GB of storage space, which they can utilize to store their college certificates, as well as identification cards such as voter identification card, and Permanent Account Number (PAN). DigiLocker requires a person to use their biometricenabled Aadhar card (Unique Identification Authority of India) for authentication. A part of the country’s growing Digital India push, DigiLocker aims to curtail the use of physical documents and reduce administrative expenses of government departments and agencies in things such as attesting documents numerous times, and wasting time and paper on documentation. Source: Mashable

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Former UC Berkeley School of Law dean Sujit Choudhry. Photo credit: Campus Safety.

ALIFORNIA Wednesday 7 September 2016 - The former University of California, Berkeley law dean who was found to have violated sexual harassment policies has returned to campus as a professor, sparking outrage from the woman at the center of the controversy who said his presence could “silence victims from coming forward”. Sujit Choudhry – who resigned in March as head of the prestigious law school, in a case that sparked a national debate about discrimination on college campuses – is returning to his Berkeley office where administrators say he will be working this fall. In her first comments on the embattled professor’s return, his former executive assistant Tyann Sorrell told the Guardian that she was “hurt and angry” to learn of his arrival on campus and was particularly devastated to read Choudhry’s op-ed in the student paper that attempted to discredit her substantiated claims. “I’m still trying to piece myself back together,” Sorrell said on Wednesday during an interview at her lawyer’s office in Oakland. “But he’s backed by his credentials and status … He’s a scholar who gets to return to work and a sense of normalcy.”

As outlined in a university investigation report and the woman’s lawsuit, Sorrell, who previously spoke at length with the Guardian about her case, said Choudhry treated her like his personal “maid” and began hugging and kissing her without permission. He eventually touched her on a “near daily basis”, sometimes “multiple times per day”, according to her claim. The former dean also allegedly rubbed and caressed her arms and shoulders while she typed. In one case, the administrator took her hands and put them on his waist before kissing her – an encounter that sent her to the bathroom in tears, the complaint alleged. After Choudhry admitted touching her – but disputed some specifics of her allegations – the university concluded that he violated sexual harassment policies and punished him by reducing his salary by 10% to $373,500 for one year. After Sorrell, 41, filed a lawsuit, the case went public and sparked intense backlash, with critics saying the university had failed a victim and given an offensively light sanction to a powerful administrator. Choudhry subsequently stepped down as dean but remained on the faculty. Records revealed that the university frequently allowed professors to keep their jobs after substantiating harassment claims, while lower-level staff were removed for similar offenses. The scandals at Berkeley, which is regarded as one of the top public universities in the US, echo recent high-profile cases at Yale

University, Columbia University and other renowned colleges.

propriate and met the definition of sexual harassment.”

Following negative news coverage across the country, the UC president, Janet Napolitano, in March requested that Choudhry be barred from returning to campus for the rest of the semester.

The university’s policy also notes that “intent” is not a requirement for sexual harassment.

It appears that no formal ban, however, was put in place, and Choudhry’s lawyer, William Taylor, said on Wednesday that the professor was back at his campus office to do research and writing and to advise students. He is not teaching courses this semester. “I still feel expendable,” said Sorrell, who remains on administrative leave and said she cannot return to the law school while Choudhry is still present. “He just waltzes back in without ever really accepting any of his wrongs.” In his Tuesday op-ed in the Daily Cal, Choudhry argued that his behavior was never sexual and selectively cited from an email Sorrell sent him in 2015 in which she said, “I know you don’t mean anything by it, other than, perhaps, a warm and friendly greeting.” Sorrell and her attorney Leslie F Levy said that it’s common for women who have been harassed or assaulted to initially downplay the seriousness of the offenses, because they may be in denial or are trying to keep their jobs and avoid confrontation. “My shame played a big role in this,” Sorrell said, noting that when she first complained to Choudhry, she was trying to be “diplomatic”. “He was still my boss. I had just been protecting him for so long.” Levy said Choudhry’s op-ed “reflects a lack of understanding of the stages of dealing with sexual harassment”, adding, “He’s trying to … undermine the victim when there’s no question what he did was inap-

Choudhry also presented himself as a victim in the case, writing in his op-ed, “My family was besieged for weeks by media from around the world.” Sorrell, whose lawsuit is ongoing, said she screamed when she read the piece and argued that his aggressive attempts to disparage her along with his return to campus could lead other victims to discount themselves. “You already know nine times out of 10, you’re going to be doubted,” she said. Levy argued that Choudhry could at least work off-campus. “He is taking his life back and the university is letting him as if little or nothing happened.” Students staged a campus rally on Wednesday to decry Choudhry’s return. Axenya Kachen, a 21-year-old student organizer, said she is a survivor of sexual violence and was devastated to read the former dean’s op-ed. “I’m continually faced with the knowledge that this university is just against me,” she said. “When they reinstate people who are known sexual predators and sexual harassers, they are saying a big ‘fuck you’ to every student on this campus and every faculty member who has been affected by sexual violence.” Taylor, Choudhry’s lawyer, reiterated claims that the touching was not of a sexual nature, adding, “His decision to occupy his office is nothing more complicated than the fact that this is his job to be a law professor and work at the law school.” Source: The Guardian.

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VOICE OF ASIA 8

HGH 2016 Lifetime Achievement Awards

Dilipkumar Mehta

indus of Greater Houston will recognize two outstanding community leaders Dilipkumar Mehta and Sam Kannappan with the Lifetime Achievement Award for their contribution to Hindu Community and Vivek Sharda for his exceptional volunteer work, with Akhil Chopra award. HGH will presents the awards at its 27th annual Janmashtami festival at George R. Brown Convention Center on Sept. 10, from 6 p.m. to midnight Dilipkumar Mehta even as early as a little kid had a strong affinity for Sanatan Dharma. When he arrived in the USA he started the Kansas University Hindu club. Later he moved to Boston and that is where he had to opportunity to meet with Swami Chinmayananda in 1968. A few years later Swami Chinmayananda visited Boston again and stayed there for a few months in 1973. At that time Dilip Mehta’s home became a meeting place for Swamiji with his followers. In 1971, Viswa Hindu Parishad of America had had its first meeting in New York City. Dilip Mehta joined VHPA and ever since he has been part of VHPA. In 1982 he moved to Houston and cofounded VHPA Chapter. In 1985 he helped start a camp

Sockalingam Sam Kannappan

Vivek Sharda

for children. Dilip Mehta is also the founding member of HGH.

Dharma (Hindusim) is world’s oldest religion. It imparts righteous way of living that even a common man can follow. Bhakthi and Surrender are the easiest path to reach God.”

Kusum and Dilip Mehta have two daughters and two grandsons. He feels young even at the age of 77 and he still mows his lawn and teaches Physics at Houston Community College. He quotes, “Only thing that keeps me going and keeps me active is my love for Sanatan Hindu Dharma which I will never give up as long as I have breath in my body.” Sockalingam Sam Kannappan has been in Houston for over 40 years. He spearheaded a monumental work in building Sri Meenakshi Temple, in Pearland, Texas. He is one of the founders of Bharathi Kalai Manram, a Tamil cultural organization in Houston .Kannappan is a Charter Member of the Society of Piping Engineers & Designers. Texas Governor Rick Perry appointed Kannappan to the Texas Professional Engineers Board from 2012 to 2017 where he serves as Enforcement Committee Chairman. Among his many contributions for charitable causes are fundraising for eye donation drive for Sankara Nethralaya, He is also the founding member of HGH. Sam Kannappan and Meenakshi Kannappan have 3 sons and one daughter. They have one grandson. At age 72 he is active with many organizations. He quotes “ Sanathan

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Sewa International Houston recognized by India Culture Center

Akhil Chopra award Vivek Sharda is a dynamic young man who is a great inspiration to many. Hindus of Greater Houston presents the award to ‘unsung heroes’ who have carried out outstanding service to the Houston Hindu community without seeking recognition. This year, Hindus of Greater Houston will bestow this prestigious Akhil Chopra Award to the outstanding volunteer Vivek Sharda. His present role is as Volunteer Engagement Coordinator for Sewa organization, where he connects youth for Sewa activities. He is actively involved with Hindu Yuva Chapter at the University, Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, and Hindus of Greater Houston. His efforts were to remove obstacles for new Indian students coming to University of Houston and work with Graduate Indian Student Organization (GISO). He volunteered as yoga Instructor for kids at Sanskaar class and as coordinator for other Maheshwari Mahasabha of North America (MMNA) activities. He also worked as disaster relief volunteer during Houston flood for the Red Cross.

ICC president Rajiv Bhavsar presenting the Award to representatives of Sewa International OUSTON - August 20th 2016, Sewa International Houston was recognized by ICC at the Indian Independence day celebration. Sewa International Houston, a non-profit organization, has been working in Greater Houston community for over a decade. It all started with providing disaster relief to victims of Katrina Hurricane.

Today, Sewa Houston is involved in wide range of projects and activities covering Health, Education, Community Development, Refugee empowerment to the underserved community in Greater Houston area. Sewa Houston has successfully implemented programs to benefit the communities, especially in the Brays Oaks District and Alief ISD with

health care camps, vaccination drives and our precious ASPIRE tutorials after school program. Sewa International Houston has been recognized by City of Houston for youth volunteerism. Volunteer Houston, a non-profit organization, has recognized Sewa volunteers for their work on refugee empowerment and youth volunteerism. Grants from State Farm Insurance and Harris County Department of Education helped Sewa’s to fulfill its multi-fold mission of education, serving humanity in distress, aiding local com-

munities and promoting volunteerism. With continued support from donors and prestigious partners, like the Brays Oaks District, Alief ISD, TCH, Rice University, Texas Asia Society, ICC and dedicated Board members, staff, Americorp Vistas and volunteers, Sewa International Houston aims at spreading out it wings further to continue helping the Greater Houston community. Sewa Houston also supports international programs on Youth internship, sponsor a child for education, Arogya Mitra for health in rural and trial areas.

Read these stories and more www.voiceofasiaonline.com

VOICE OF ASIA 9

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

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VOICE OF ASIA 10

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Bollywood Shake Crowns 2016 Teen, Miss & Mrs. Bollywood USA Teen Bollywood USA 2016 Vaishnavi Gandhi Teen Bollywood USA 2016 1st Runner Up Jeevandeep Kaur Teen Bollywood USA 2016 2nd Runner Up - Aditi Panchal

Contestants on the Catwalk at the Bollywood Pageant USA 2016. Photo credit Jasleen Kaur.

ollywood Shake hosted its 4th Annual Bollywood Pageant USA 2016 on Sept 4, 2016 at the exquisite Hotel Sorella in City Center. Beauty with a Purpose was the theme of the event with Daya Houston as the charity partner. Ruchika Dias, Founder & CEO of Bollywood Shake and Pageant Director along with her team put together an entertaining and meaningful evening highlighting women of substance. This year’s show included the Teen, Miss and Mrs. Bollywood categories with thirty contestants from all over the United States. The esteemed judging panel included Rehan Siddiqui, Founder & CEO of HumFM, World renowned chef Roshni Gurnani, Amir Dodhiya of New York Life, Actor Mahesh Sriram, Miss Texas Regency International Courtney Rae Moor, Miss Teen Houston International 2016 Natasha Muppala, Founder and CEO of TV Houston and Apsara, Sangeeta Dua, Realtor Shaneel Mitha, Mrs. Norway 2016 Eva Worren Chambers, International Designer Noureen Dhanani, Community Leader Sunny Taj, Mrs. Bollywood 2014 Nina Desai, Voted Top 30 Influential Women of Houston Farida Abjani and Jasmeeta Singh Found-

er and CEO of Jaz Creationz. Aalponaa Event Designers did the event management, Jaz Creationz was the modeling partner and Deco Art put up the amazing décor. Pageant Coach Niharika Nag did an amazing job with the contestants and choreography. The highlights of the evening included a special appearance by legendary Bollywood actress Meenakshi Seshadri, live performance by 22-year old Salman Mithani and Houston’s giftwrapper Rocko Stedy Narvios who also composed an original theme song for the pageant. The show opened with “Kala Chashma” dance by the 30 contestants wearing sunglasses choreographed by Bollywood Shake. In Round 1 Introduction contestants came out dressed in elegant formal wear gowns. In the talent round for the Teen and Miss Bollywood, contestants displayed their talent beautifully from dancing, singing to extempore speaking. This was followed by a fashion show choreographed by Ruchika Dias and Niharika Nag to the live performance by Salman Mithani who sang melodious songs such as “Muskurane Ki Wajah” and “Chand Chupa Badal Mein”.

Round 2 Ethnic Wear clothing by Zar was sponsored by Shehnaz Madhani. The beautiful display of colors, fabric and style was a spectacle to behold! Shehnaz has been in the business for over 18 years and recently opened her boutique in Telfair, Sugar Land. The “Beauty with a Purpose” award was given to Maliha Mian, a breast cancer survivor who is starting her own organization called Got Boobs with resources for cancer patients. Other awards given during the evening were the HumFM award, Jaz Creationz Beauty Award, Miss Personality, Best Smile, Most Transformed and Congeniality. Special thanks to our sponsors – B4U, 106.1 HumFM, Official Designer Shehnaz Madhani, Amir Dodhiya of New York Life, Realtor Shaneel Mitha, Official Caterer Universal Bakery and Sweets. Jasleen Kaur Photography and Sangeeta Dua’s TV Houston, Videographer Ruchika Dias and her team raised the bar with this wonderfully executed event! Bollywood Shake would like to thank all the volunteers and people who came out to cheer the contestants! Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Miss Bollywood USA 2016 Natasha Gambhir Miss Bollywood USA 2016 1st Runner Up - Mona Deo Miss Bollywood USA 2016 2nd Runner Up - Anisha Roy

Mrs. Bollywood USA 2016 Jyoti Verma Mrs. Bollywood USA 2016 1st Runner Up - Pragya Sen Mrs. Bollywood USA 2016 2nd Runner Up - Gayathri Rao.

Lifestyle VOICE OF ASIA

VOICE OF ASIA 11

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How ancient Indian knowledge is combating modern disease Expert Panel Discussion - Free Event September 11, India House Houston, TX Dr. David Frawley by Sahana Singh

he role of Yoga, Ayurveda and Meditation in human health was well-understood by ancient Indian sages. The knowledge of rishis and rishikas was passed down the generations and there was a time not so long ago, when Ayurvedic remedies for common ailments such as cold, cough, headache and fever were well known to every person of Indic origin. This was before medical Dr.ugs such as Advil and Claritin made an appearance and got embedded into modern lifestyles.

psychological well-being. The event is being presented by Indian History Awareness and Research, a thinktank based in Houston in collaboration with India House.

Dr. David Frawley (Pandit Vamadeva Shastri), an Acharya in the Vedic tradition has spent a great part of his life in educating people in the west about the holistic healing offered by Ayurveda and Yoga. He is a recipient of Padma Bhushan, one of India’s highest civilian awards and author of path-breaking books on Sanatana Dharma, Yoga, Ayurveda and Vedic Astrology. On September 11, 2016 the Acharya will speak about the importance of Yoga and Ayurveda for

“Ayurveda is inherently a psychological as much as it is a physical system of medicine,” explains Dr. Frawley. “Its scope of practice includes both physical (sharirika) and mental (manasika) diseases.” According to him, we cannot really understand Ayurveda without looking at its view of the mind and consciousness. At the Houston event Dr. Frawley plans to Dr.ive home the importance of reviving the psychological and yogic underpinnings of Ayurveda and ap-

Dr. Indranill Basu Ray

Dr. Rajan Narayanan

plying it to treat modern afflictions such as hypertension and attentiondeficit. Dr. Rajan Narayanan is another expert who will be sharing the stage with Dr. Frawley. The Founder of Life in Yoga Foundation, Dr. Narayanan believes that the current relevance of Yoga in medicine is that Yoga alone has the potential to reveal a unified structure of understanding of the human system. His lecture is titled “Place of Yoga in medicine – A Historical and Current Perspective.” Now that the benefits of yoga have been understood by modern science, Dr. Narayanan reveals that it has already started impacting medical text-

Dr. Raj Vedam books and Life in Yoga became the first yoga organization to be given accreditation to offer continuing medical education credits to physicians. Dr. Indranill Basu Ray, the third expert to speak at India House will underline the role of meditation in modern medicine. Dr. Basu Ray, a cardiologist with Texas Heart Institute and Baylor College of Medicine straddles the worlds of modern medicine and yoga with equal ease. “Meditating does more than just making you feel good and calming you down, it makes you perform better and alters the structure of your brain,” he says. The audience will learn how neuroprotective effects of meditation

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Tel: 713-774-5140 have been borne out by electroencephalographic (EEG), cognitive and imaging studies on ubiquitous people including monks without and with experience in meditation. The last speaker of the day, Dr. Raj Vedam will take the audience along a journey showing the pathways by which ancient Indian knowledge of herbs, yoga and meditation was transferred to Europe and the rest of the world. “Did you know that Materia Medica from Ayurveda was the basis of Western and Eastern medicine from at least 2,000 years ago?” asks Dr. Vedam. His lecture titled “Antiquity of Indian Medical Systems” will interest all those who have wondered about the history of Ayurveda. This is not the first time Indian History Awareness and Research (IHAR) has organised lectures on a stimulating topic. IHAR has been developing narratives of Indian history free from the bias that has often distorted perspectives in the past. The think tank consists of professionals who bring their scientific knowledge from various disciplines and apply it for the study of Indian history. Collaborating with IHAR is India House, which has played a stellar role in bringing, resources, education, services and Indian culture to Houstonians. Visit www.indiahouse.org/events to register for talks on ‘Relevance Of Indic Traditions of Health and Well Being’.

Half-Indian ‘elephant whisperer’ crowned Miss Japan

Priyanka Yoshikawa smiles as she holds the trophy after winning the Miss Japan title at the Miss World Japan 2016 Beauty Pageant in Tokyo on September 5, 2016. AFP Photo. by Alastair HIMMER OKYO, Japan | AFP | A half-Indian beauty queen with an elephant trainer’s licence was crowned Miss Japan on Monday, striking a fresh blow for racial equality. Priyanka Yoshikawa’s tearful victory comes a year after Ariana Miyamoto faced an ugly backlash for becoming the first black woman to represent Japan. Social media lit up after Mi-

yamoto’s trail-blazing triumph as critics complained that Miss Universe Japan should instead have been won by a “pure” Japanese rather than a “haafu” -the Japanese for “half”, a word used to describe mixed race. “Before Ariana, haafu girls couldn’t represent Japan,” Yoshikawa told AFP in an interview after her exotic Bollywood looks helped sweep her to the title. “That’s what I thought too. I

didn’t doubt it or challenge it until this day. Ariana encouraged me a lot by showing me and showing all mixed girls the way.” Yoshikawa, born in Tokyo to an Indian father and a Japanese mother, vowed to continue the fight against racial prejudice in homogenous Japan, where multiracial children make up just two percent of those born annually. “I think it means we have to

let it in,” said the 22-year-old when asked what it signified for her and Miyamoto to break down cultural barriers. “We are Japanese. Yes, I’m half Indian and people are asking me about my ‘purity’ -- yes, my dad is Indian and I’m proud of it, I’m proud that I have Indian in me. But that does not mean I’m not Japanese.” Yoshikawa, like Miyamoto, was bullied because of her skin colour after returning to Japan aged 10 following three years in Sacramento and a further year in India. - Gandhi visit ”I know a lot of people who are haafu and suffer,” said Yoshikawa, an avid kick-boxer whose politician great-grandfather once welcomed independence campaigner Mahatma Gandhi for a two-week stay at their home in Kolkata. “We have problems, we’ve been struggling and it hurts. When I came back to Japan, everyone thought I was a germ,” she added. “Like if they touched me they would be touching something bad. But I’m thankful because that made me really strong.”

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Yoshikawa, who speaks fluent Japanese and English and towered over her rivals at 1.76 metres (5 ft, 8 ins), will contest for the Miss World crown in Washington this December. “When I’m Priyanka Yoshikawa walks during the Miss World abroad, peo- Japan 2016 Beauty Pageant in Tokyo on September ple never ask 5, 2016. (AFP) me what mix I am,” said national characteristics,” grumYoshikawa, who earned her elbled one Twitter user, while ephant trainer’s licence to add another fumed: “It’s like we’re spice to her resume. saying a pure Japanese face “As Miss Japan, hopefully I can’t be a winner.” can help change perceptions As the Japanese government so that it can be the same here continues to push its “Cool Jatoo. The number of people with pan” brand overseas to entice mixed race is only going to inforeign tourists for the 2020 crease, so people have to accept Tokyo Olympics, Yoshikawa it.” promised to win over any Reaction to Yoshikawa’s vic- doubters. tory failed initially to trigger “There was a time as a kid any real outrage, although prewhen I was confused about my dictably some were unhappy. identity,” she admitted. “But “What’s the point of holding I’ve lived in Japan so long now a pageant like this now? Zero I feel Japanese.”

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LEISURE

VOICE OF ASIA 12

Tom Ford hypnotises Venice with thriller â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Nocturnal Animalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;

Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crisis-hit top film festival to go ahead next month

by Ella IDE

EOUL, South Korea | AFP | 9/6/2016 - Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top film festival will go ahead next month despite a threatened boycott by some local moviemakers seeking guarantees of artistic freedom, its head said Tuesday.

ENICE, Italy | AFP | 9/2/2016 - Ex-fashion designer Tom Ford enthralled the Venice film festival Friday with a gripping tale of betrayal and revenge, unveiling two films in one with his hotly-anticipated â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nocturnal Animalsâ&#x20AC;?. The romantic thriller, Fordâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second feature film after â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Single Manâ&#x20AC;? (2009), spooked and stirred in equal part, with arresting performances from US stars Amy Adams and Jake Gyllenhaal as lovers gone awry. From the first scene -- wildly obese women dancing naked -- to the bittersweet close, the former Gucci designer produced a visually stunning and richly complex evocation of human frailty and retribution. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Loyalty is important to me. The story is about when you find people in your life, you hang on to them. This is a cautionary tale about what can happen in your life when you let them go,â&#x20AC;? Ford told journalists on Veniceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lido. Adams, 42, plays Susan, who lives a privileged but lonely life in Los Angeles with her oft-absent husband. One day she receives a novel, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nocturnal Animalsâ&#x20AC;?, written by her ex-husband Edward, played by Gyllenhaal. - â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Hauntingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; -Edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note, which asks her to read the novel and contact him, comes out of the blue, 19 years after she left him. It sparks a bout of soul-seeking from Susan, with flash-backs of her life with Edward, and unveils a dark secret. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There was a rumble beneath the screenplay. Tom told me he absolutely had to tell this story and I couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t say no,â&#x20AC;? said Gyllenhaal, 35, who described playing a man impotent in the face of horror â&#x20AC;&#x153;wonderfully frustratingâ&#x20AC;?. The narrative takes on a second strand as the violent events in the novel are played out as pictured in Susanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head as she reads, and she discovers the story is a channel for Edward to express the heartbreak she caused.

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Kim Dong-Ho, chairman of the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF), urged filmmakers to end their boycott and vowed to guarantee the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independence. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m really sorry for what happened to the festival in the past... Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll do my best to restore the honour of the festival that has been undermined over the past two yearsâ&#x20AC;?, he told journalists. (From left) Actor Aaron Taylor-Johnson, director Tom Ford, actress Amy Adams and actor Jake Gyllenhaal attend the photocall of the movie â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nocturnal Animalsâ&#x20AC;? presented at the 73rd Venice Film Festival on September 2, 2016 (AFP Photo/Tizana Fabi) In the novel, Tony Hastings -- also played by Gyllenhaal -- is stopped by a creepy trio of joy-riders while driving across Texas at night, and his redheaded wife and daughter (resembling Susan and daughter) are abducted. Hastings is left to try and track down the gangâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ringleader, psychopathic Ray (played brilliantly by Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Aaron Taylor-Johnson), with the help of detective Bobby Andes (Academy Award nominee Michael Shannon). Ford, who adapted the screenplay from Austin Wrightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1993 book â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tony and Susanâ&#x20AC;?, said â&#x20AC;&#x153;if it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t stay with you, haunt you, challenge you, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a successful film for meâ&#x20AC;? -- not a concern he should have here.

for the film, just as details from Susan and Edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life together seeped into Edwardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s story,â&#x20AC;? he added. Adams manages to make troubled Susan sympathetic, something she found difficult: â&#x20AC;&#x153;it was a tricky one to prepare because when I first started exploring Susan, I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t like her, and I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t play a character I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t likeâ&#x20AC;?. For his part, family-man Aaron Taylor-Johnson, 26, said he did a lot of research for his role, including extensive reading on American serial killer, kidnapper, rapist, and necrophile Ted Bundy.

- â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Very scary indeedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; -He added that there was a lot of himself in all three characters -- Susan, Tony and Edward. Susan â&#x20AC;&#x153;with her lack of self-confidenceâ&#x20AC;?, Tony and Edward who are sensitive rather than dominant. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They do not possess the stereotypical traits of masculinity that our culture often expects, yet in the end they both triumph. As a boy growing up in Texas, I was anything but what was considered classically masculine.

The prestigious annual festival has been embroiled in a bitter row with the municipal government of the host city Busan since the screening in 2014 of a controversial documentary about the Sewol ferry disaster. The film criticised the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handling of the sinking in April 2014 that killed more than 300 people, mostly schoolchildren. A flurry of official probes targeting the organising committee and an unprecedented cut in state funding last year was seen as an attack on the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independence. It triggered a boycott threat by an confederation of Korean filmmakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; associations. In an attempt to smooth things over, the Busan city government -- a major BIFF sponsor -- appointed Kim, the festivalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s respected former founding

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The measures prompted hundreds of local directors, actors and producers to stage street rallies in protest at what they described as a state attempt to â&#x20AC;&#x153;tameâ&#x20AC;? critics including artists. More than 100 prominent cineastes including the directors of the Cannes, Berlin and Venice film festivals also issued an open letter in February denouncing â&#x20AC;&#x153;political pressureâ&#x20AC;? on BIFF programmers. The 21st festival will open for a 10day run on October 6, with 123 world and international premieres and 178 other films set to be screened.

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Lee was eventually forced to step down in February after Suh refused to renew his contract.

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After that, state funding for the 2015 BIFF was nearly halved and the thenfestival director Lee Yong-Kwan became the target of a series of probes by state auditors.

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Suh said it was â&#x20AC;&#x153;too politicalâ&#x20AC;? to be premiered at the BIFF, although the screening eventually went ahead.

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Kim, 78, was brought in as chairman to replace Busan city mayor Suh Byung-Soo, who was at the centre of the fight over the documentary â&#x20AC;&#x153;Diving Bellâ&#x20AC;? in 2014.

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Kim on Tuesday stressed that the committee in July passed new rules to ensure the eventâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s artistic and political freedom.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Dark Windâ&#x20AC;? by Iraqâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hussein Hassan, about a woman engaged to her lover but captured and sold as a slave by the Islamic State group , has been selected as the closing film.

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About half of the filmmakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; groups subsequently lifted the boycott.

Its opening film will be South Koreaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s â&#x20AC;&#x153;A Quiet Dreamâ&#x20AC;? by KoreanChinese director Zhang Lu, which humorously tells the story of a young woman who supports her bedridden father by running a small bar.

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VOICE OF ASIA 13

Keeping the bugs away the natural way Part II

Meenakshi Bhattacharjee Prof. Rice University, Houston TX

what you have available. Several variations are shown below so you can try whichever one you have the ingredients for. This recipe uses essential oils, which are highly effective, but there are some concerns about putting these directly on the skin, especially on children. It is preferable to use this recipe on clothing or gear instead of directly on the skin. Homemade Bug Spray Ingredients:

by Meenakshi Bhattacharjee Choosing a Mosquito Repellent When deciding what type of mosquito repellent to use, you should consider: how long you will be outside; how many mosquitoes are in your area; risk of mosquito-transmitted diseases where you live.

Essential oils: choose from Citronella, Clove, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Cajeput, Eucalyptus, Cedar, Catnip, Lavender, Mint Natural Witch Hazel Distilled or boiled Water Vegetable glycerin (optional)

Safety Tips for Using Mosquito Repellents

Homemade Bug Spray Instructions

When using an insect repellent, follow these safety tips from the CDC:

Fill spray bottle (I used 8 ounce) 1/2 full with distilled or boiled water

• Don’t use products that combine DEET and a sunscreen, because insect repellent usually doesn’t need to be applied as often as sunscreen. • When using sunscreen and DEET at the same time, apply sunscreen first and then DEET. • Don’t apply insect repellent to children’s hands or allow young children to apply themselves. • Never apply repellent over skin wounds, cuts, or otherwise irritated skin areas. • Use and reapply insect repellent according to the instructions on the product’s label. Essential Oil Bug Spray Recipe As with practically every household item, natural bug spray can be made inexpensively and naturally at home. This recipe takes just seconds to mix up and can be varied based on

Fitbit leads wearables, Apple Watch sales slip: survey

tal in any combination from the above. Generally used is 1 TBSP each of peppermint, spearmint, catnip and lavender, and also a couple of dried cloves.

also be used as a tincture for any illness. For adults, dose is 1 TBSP in water several times a day, for kids over 2, dose is 1 tsp in water several times a day.

Mix well, cover and let cool (covering is important to keep the volatile oils in!)

Other Simple Insect Repelling Ideas

Strain herbs out and mix water with 1 cup of witch hazel or rubbing alcohol. Store in a spray bottle in a cool place (fridge is great because then it’s nice and cool).

Use a non-toxic, plastic-free insect-repelling band which is easier to use on children and very effective.

Use as needed. Added bonus: it smells great and is very refreshing to the skin.

Add vanilla extract to either of the above recipes, or just rub on the skin. You can also mix vanilla with witch hazel and water for a spray version.

Super Strong Insect Repellent Recipe

Plant insect repelling herbs in your yard.

Fair warning: this stuff stinks when it is wet, though the smell disappears as it dries and it works incredibly well though. It’s also very inexpensive to make and you probably already have the ingredients in your kitchen.

Rub lavender flowers or lavender oil on your skin, especially on hot parts of body (neck, underarms, behind ears, etc.) to repel insects.

Add witch hazel to fill almost to the top

One 32 ounce bottle of Apple Cider Vinegar

Add 1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin if using

2 TBSP each of dried Sage, Rosemary, Lavender, Thyme and Mint

Rub fresh or dried leaves of anything in the mint family all over skin to repel insects (peppermint, spearmint, catnip, pennyroyal, or citronella, lemongrass, etc.) Basil is also said to repel mosquitoes and fresh basil leaves in the garden have met with great success before.

At least quart size glass jar with airtight lid

Additional Tips and Warnings:

How to Make the Vinegar Insect Repellent

As always with essential oils, women who are pregnant or nursing should consult a health practitioner before using.

Add 30-50 drops of essential oils to desired scent. The more oils you use, the stronger the spray will be. Some favorite mixes are: Rosemary, Clove, Cajeput, Lavender, Cinnamon and Eucalyptus. It works great and smells good too! How to Make Bug Spray from Dried or Fresh Herbs Ingredients Distilled water Witch hazel or rubbing alcohol Dried herbs: peppermint, spearmint, citronella, lemongrass, catnip, lavender, etc. It is recommended using at least one herb from the mint family. Fresh or Dried Herbs Bug Spray Instructions Boil 1 cup of water and add 3-4 TBSP of dried herbs to-

Ingredients

Put the vinegar and dried herbs into large glass jar. Seal tightly and store on counter or place you will see it daily. Shake well each day for 2-3 weeks. After 2-3 weeks, strain the herbs out and store in spray bottles or tincture bottles, preferably in fridge. To use on skin, dilute to half with water in a spray bottle and use as needed. Use whenever you need serious bug control! Note: This mixture is very strong and has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It can

Extreme caution should be used when using essential oils on young children. Always perform a patch test to check for an allergic reaction before using an essential oil for the first time. Always label products well.

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

homemade

Dark-colored bottles work best for products containing essential oils. Store in a cool, dark place when you are not using the product. Consult your doctor before using natural repellents.

ASHINGTON | AFP | 9/6/2016 Fitbit extended its lead in the market for connected wearables in the second quarter amid a sharp drop in Apple Watch sales, a survey showed Tuesday.

The survey by research firm IDC said the global wearables market grew 26.1 percent from a year ago to 22.5 million units. Fitbit, which recently introduced its Charge 2 and Flex 2 fitness bands, captured 25.4 percent of the market with sales growth of nearly 29 percent, IDC said. Chinese electronics group Xiaomi was second with a market share of 14 percent, with modest sales growth of 2.5 percent, according to the survey. Apple, which introduced its smartwatch a year ago, saw a 56.7 percent year-over-year drop in sales of the device, IDC said. Apple, which does not release official sales data for the

smartwatch, captured just seven percent of the overall wearables market with 1.6 million units sold, according to IDC’s estimate. The California company has scheduled a media event Wednesday where it may unveil an updated Apple Watch along with a new version of its iPhone. IDC analysts said the market is bifurcating between basic wearables with a single function and more complex devices that accept third-party applications and functions like communication and mobile payments. IDC research manager Ramon Llamas said basic wearables accounted for 82.8 percent of sales, and more vendors continue to enter this space. “Smart wearables, meanwhile, are still struggling to find their place in the market,” Llamas said. “There is plenty of curiosity about what smart wearables -- particularly smartwatches -- can do, but they have yet to convince users that they are a must-have item.”

New York to grow oysters on recycled toilets

EW YORK | AFP | 9/6/2016 - Toilets might not immediately conjure up thoughts of marine life but New York is growing 50,000 oysters on beds of recycled lavatory porcelain near one of the world’s busiest airports. The “Billion Oyster Project,” which the city unveiled on Tuesday, is designed to boost storm defenses and improve the quality of brackish and fresh water wetlands of Jamaica Bay, home to John F. Kennedy Airport. The $1 million project will be rooted in oyster beds made up of broken porcelain from nearly 5,000 recycled toilets, decades after the natural population died out due to pollution and overharvesting.

Officials hope they help create a more sustainable and resilient city, buffer New York from future storms and clean up the water. “This oyster bed will serve multiple purposes -- protecting our wetlands from erosion, naturally filtering our water and providing a home for our sea dwellers are just a few,” said Mayor Bill de Blasio. New York was paralyzed by Hurricane Sandy in 2012, which also caused devastating damage in neighboring states New Jersey and Connecticut. The monster storm killed more than 200 people, left hundreds of thousands homeless and cut power in southern Manhattan for days.

Life-altering science moves fast, sparking debate and the trees,” he said. “One of the key things that is going to be important for this technology is the ability to get these genes out in a very rapid way in the population.” - Call for caution According to Floyd Reed, a scientist at the University of Hawaii who is working on a project to alter Culex mosquitoes which transmit avian malaria to birds, gene drive technologies are incredibly diverse.

Gene-drive technology can eliminate the need for pesticides, and could offer a remedy against invasive species. PHOTO: AFP by Kerry SHERIDAN ONOLULU | AFP | 9/6/2016 - Scientific techniques that can wipe out invasive species or alter mosquitoes’ ability to carry disease are pushing ahead, raising concerns about the ethics of permanently changing the natural world, experts say. This fast-moving field of science -- which involves changing the biology of creatures by interfering with their DNA -- is increasingly being debated not only for human health purposes, but also in conservation circles. Perhaps the most controversial type of research is known as a “gene drive,” which ensures that a certain trait is passed down from parent to offspring. It eventually leads to genetic changes throughout the entire species. Projects being considered include one to release altered mice on islands that will only bear male offspring, ensuring an end to future generations, scientists said at the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Conservation Congress. Another idea is to save endangered birds on the Hawaiian islands by releasing altered mosquitoes that cannot carry avian malaria. The Oxitec mosquito developed by Intrexon is not technically a “gene drive,” but cuts down on the population of mosquitoes by introducing

altered males whose offspring cannot survive. Proponents of gene drive technology say it eliminates the need for polluting pesticides, and could offer a more effective remedy against invasive species than any tool on hand. But opponents fear the impacts of permanently altering life forms on Earth and its unknown -- and likely irreversible -- impact on creatures and ecosystems. - ‘Behind closed doors’ Kevin Esvelt, an assistant professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), is among the first scientists to propose using gene-editing, or CRISPR technology, to alter species. He is also one of the most cautious voices on its potential uses. “As a scientist who worked on it, I am particularly concerned because we scientists are ultimately morally responsible for all the consequences of our work,” Esvelt said at a panel discussion at the IUCN meeting in Honolulu. “It should be a requirement that no one gets to build a gene drive or any technology designed to alter the shared environment in a laboratory without making their proposals public first,” he said. “If something goes wrong in the laboratory, it can affect people outside the laboratory,” Esvelt added.

“That means if you do it behind closed doors -- as is traditional in science -- then you are not giving people a voice in a decision that might affect them.” He also said the current regulatory environment is “all based around release. And not really stringent enough, frankly, if you ask me.” - Quick action But others at the same panel called for quick action to preserve imperiled species before they disappear forever due to invasive species and diseases. “One of the scariest things of working in conservation in Hawaii is there is no way to save these birds from malaria,” said Chris Farmer, Hawaii program director of the American Bird Conservancy. A total of 38 forest birds in Hawaii have gone extinct already due in large part to avian diseases, and 21 of the remaining 32 species are at risk, experts say. By not exploring new technologies, “we are choosing to let these species go extinct,” Farmer said. Another speaker on the panel, Anthony James, professor of microbiology and molecular genetics at the University of California Irvine School of Medicine, said time is of the essence. “You have heard the urgency in the voices of my colleagues here worried about the birds

Some could theoretically spread from a single small release and genetically transform an entire species, he told AFP via email. “These should be treated extremely cautiously. And there are other types of population modification genetic technology that are safer, geographically self limiting, and reversible.” At the ongoing IUCN World Conservation Congress, a meeting of environmentalists

and heads of state from around the world that runs from September 1-10 and has drawn some 9,000 heads of state and environmentalists to Hawaii, members adopted a motion to refrain “from supporting or endorsing research, including field trials, into the use of gene drives for conservation or other purposes” until a rapid assessment is completed by 2020. However, the motion is nonbinding, and does not prevent anyone from pursuing research.

VOICE OF ASIA 14

Section 2

Young Life

Obama: Young Americans ‘completely reject’ Trump on immigrants

ASHINGTON | AFP | 9/4/2016 - Barack Obama believes that young Americans “completely reject” Republican White House hopeful Donald Trump’s tough line on immigration and that most Americans share their stance. “There’s a long tradition in the United States of inclusion, immigration, diversity,” the president said in an interview broadcast Sunday on CNN but recorded before he left for the Group of 20 summit meeting in China. “I don’t think that’s going to change because Mr Trump’s got a little more attention than usual,” added Obama. He reiterated that he felt certain the 70-year-old real estate mogul would not succeed him as president next January. “If you look at the current polls,” Obama said, “he’s been able to appeal to a certain group of folks who feel left out or worried about the social change, who have legitimate concerns around the economy and (are) feeling left behind. But that’s not the majority of America.” “And if you talk to younger people, the next generation of Americans, they completely reject the path” taken by Trump. The president said it was important to “pay close attention” when there was a rise in intolerance and calls for “banning certain classes of people,” a clear allusion to Trump’s call last year to ban all Muslims from entering the country “until we find out what’s going on.” But overall, Obama concluded, “I’m optimistic.” After issuing a series of contradictory signals on immigration -- reflecting the tensions within his campaign team -- Trump delivered a muchanticipated speech Wednesday in Phoenix, Arizona that essentially repeated the hard line on immigration that helped fuel his rise during the Republican primaries. Detailing the arsenal of tough measures he intends to take if he defeats Democratic rival Hillary Clinton in the November 8 election, he ruled out any path to citizenship for the undocumented immigrants -- most of them Mexicans -- living in the shadows in the United States.

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VOICE OF ASIA 15

Section 2

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Bollywood Masala

Email: editor@voiceofasiaonline.com

Tagore’s poem ‘Hatath Dekha’ being turned into film

obel laureate Rabindranath Tagore’s immortal poem “Hatath Dekha” will soon be made into a film under an Indo-Bangladeshjoint production, with a cast drawn from the two countries.

dal set-up and the women who came out of this,” Reshmi said.

The film’s director, Reshmi Mitra, said that shooting would be done extensively in Bangladeshand Birbhum district in West Bengal.

The film, produced by known Bangladeshi production house Impress Telefilm Ltd and two Indian producers, has been shot in Chittagong, Mymansingh, Dhaka, Rangamati in Bangladeshand in several parts of rural West Bengalincluding Birbhum district where Tagore was primarily based.

“The dialogues retain the resonance of the poem and we have recreated the period look of 1938,” she told PTI. Boasting a formidable cast, including Debasree Roy, Shankar Chakraborty, Tulika Basu and Ilias Kanchan (India) and Munia Yusuf Mimi, Azhar J S Himi (Bangladesh), the narrative requires the characters to speak in verses. “We have sought to incorporate several important issues of the bygone times including female education and the general condition of women in the feu-

She said that the storyline involves two characters who meet in a train compartment after many years of their first encounter.

The film has Rabindrasangeet and Baul songs rendered by popular Bangladeshi Rabindrasangeet exponent Rejwana Chowdhury Banya, Anupam Roy and Kartik Das Baul. “Music plays an important part in the movie since there are shots of vast expanse of rivers, a typical sight across the borders,” the director, who had previously made two films, said.

Bachchan, Aamir Khan to star in ‘Thugs of Hindostan’

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Here’s how Bollywood celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi

ollywood celebrities celebrate Ganesh Chaturthi with great fanfare. It is common knowledge that some actors always bring ‘Bappa’ home and do the pooja with traditional fervour, while some celebrities visit others to offer their prayers to Ganpati. This year was no different. Here’s how some Bollywood celebrities celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi. Salman Khan: The Khan family celebrates Ganesh Chaturthi every year and their pooja is attended by celebrities from all walks of life. This year, while Salman was busy shooting in Manali for Tubelight, celebs like Riteish Deshmukh-Genelia, Karisma Kapoor, Dia Mirza, Daisy Shah, Malaika AroraAmrita, Divya Khosla Kumar and others attended their Ganpati pooja. Shraddha Kapoor: The young superstar celebrated Ganesh Chaturthi like every year with her family and posted a sweet family pic with Bappa. Ranbir Kapoor: The Kapoor khandaan too had a Ganpati pooja at RK Studios, which was attended by all members of the family, including Ranbir. Riteish Deshmukh: The Deshmukh family decided to go green this year when Riteish made his own eco-friendly Ganpati and did pooja of a tree.

Ganesh Chaturthi 2016: An environment-conscious actress Shilpa Shetty says she will celebrate with gusto, but has a message for every devotee too. She said, “I would request people to use ecofriendly Ganpati and also materials. From last year on, have made a promise to myself that I would contribute in bringing in an eco-friendly Ganpati, and I maintain that and continue to do that.” (AP)

Tusshar Kapoor: Tusshar and daddy Jeetendra celebrations this year were bigger than usual as it was the first Chaturthi of Tusshar’s son – Laksshya. Shilpa Shetty Kundra: Shilpa, Raj and son Viaan posed happily with their Bappa after doing the pooja with friends and family. Amitabh Bachchan Mumbai, Sep 7 (PTI) Megastar Amitabh Bachchan and Aamir Khan are all set to come together for Yash Raj Films’ “Thugs of Hindostan”.

he is excited to work with his icon, whom he has admired all his life.

Anil Kapoor: However busy this family might be, they always have time for the biggest pooja of the year. Anil Kapoor and his family did the Ganpati pooja in style!

Bachchan, 73, and Aamir will share the screen space for the first time in the movie, to be directed by “Dhoom 3” helmer Vijay Krishna Acharya (Victor).

“Finally the moment I have been waiting for has come... To work with my icon, Mr Bachchan! Thanks Adi, Victor, for ‘Thugs of Hindostan’. I’m too thirlled to be working with the actor I have admired all my life,” Aamir posted on Twitter.

for the release of biopic “Dangal” which features him in the lead role of Mahavir Singh Phogat, will start shooting for the YRF project early next year. The leading lady of the film is yet to be announced soon.

The 51-year-old actor said

The actor, who is geared up

“Thugs of Hindostan” is slated to release on Diwali 2018.

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VOICE OF ASIA 16

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

HEALTHY LIVING VOICE OF ASIA

Section 2

Email: voiceasia@aol.com

HPV cancers: The most preventable human cancers

Tel: 713-774-5140

Should You Switch Doctors Once You Turn 65 When Medicare requires a change in doctors. Even if someone doesn’t want to change their doctor because of their age, they may have to because of their health insurance. At age 65, seniors become eligible for Medicare, which could require a change in their health care providers. Most primary care physicians – 93 percent according to the Kaiser Family Foundation –accept Medicare. However, seniors who select a Medicare Advantage plan through a private insurer may be required to see a provider who participates with the plan. That may require people to switch doctors if they want their care to be covered. Finding the right physician. Riddle says many seniors have a personal, not just a professional, relationship with their physician. “It’s not just their doctor. It’s their friend,” she says. As a result, switching doctors – either by choice or out of necessity – can be a stressful situation. “It feels like a betrayal,” Riddle says. To help ease the process, patient advocates can assist with notifying the existing physician as well as helping seniors find a new doctor who is a good fit for their needs. “Since older adults tend to see their doctors more frequently than younger persons, being comfortable is absolutely essential,” FitzPatrick says.

IACAN Members with Speaker Panelists at the talk on HPV cancers held at the

OUSTON - The Indian American Cancer network (IACAN) had a very informative educational program on HPV cancers and as speakers, we had the honor of having Dr. Kathleen M. Schmeler, and Dr. Erich M. Sturgis of the University of Texas-M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas. The human papillomavirus (HPV), is a group of more than 150 related viruses. Some “low-risk HPV” can cause non-cancerous warts and papillomas and other “high-risk HPV” cause cervical cancers, the majority of oropharyngeal and anal cancers and linked to many penile, vaginal and vulvar cancers. The lifetime risk of acquiring an HPV infection is approximately 80%. Most never know they are infected (no symptoms). HPV is most commonly transmitted by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with HPV+ non-symptomatic individual but intercourse is not necessary. HPV can also be transmitted by close intimate skin-to-skin contact, and from infected mother to her child during birth. Cervical cancer is number 1 cause of cancer death in women in most of Africa and second/third in most of Latin America and South Asia. In the US and other developed countries oropharyngeal cancers in men, and anal

cancers in both men and women are increasing. Cervical pre-cancer is identifiable and treatable through routine Pap/ HPV testing and is effective in reducing cervical cancer incidence and mortality in the developed world. However, this approach is expensive and likely not feasible in resource/infrastructurepoor regions of the developing world. Furthermore, the HPV-related oropharyngeal pre-cancer is almost never identifiable prior to the development of invasive cancer. Therefore, prevention of initial infection is most desirable option and vaccination is the most effective approach. Fortunately, we now have very effective vaccines approved in 2007 by CDC for pre-adolescent boys and girls 11 to 12 years of age to prevent HPV infection and the resulting diseases. Catch-up vaccination is recommended for males and females through age 26. The 3-dose vaccine is administered over six months and can be given along with other childhood vaccines. The HPV vaccines produce a higher immune response in preteens and young teens than they do in older teens and young adults, which is why it is very important for children to get vaccinated earlier than age 14. HPV vaccine protection lasts for at least 10 years,

and potentially even longer. The vaccine has been extensively monitored for safety with minor and temporary side effects. Studies have shown that being vaccinated against HPV will not affect sexual behavior. For those who practice abstinence, there is no guarantee that a future partner will have made the same choice, leaving them open to future infection. Despite this remarkable opportunity to prevent HPV-cancers through the simple and safe vaccination, only 40% girls and only 20% boys in the U.S. are completing HPV vaccination. The gravity of this missed opportunity to eradicate this disease from the next generation is that these cancers typically require aggressive multimodality cancer treatment including radiation and chemotherapy and sometimes mutilating surgeries that have life-long impact on quality of life and daily functions. If these cancers return after treatment they are typically incurable. Consequently, it is imperative that children complete the HPV vaccination series before their 13th birthday so that they are protected from being a victim of these cancers. Contact IACAN: www.Iacannetwork. org, Email: iacannetwork@gmail.com, Phone: 713 370 3489.

When shopping for a new doctor, seniors should remember age is just a number. “I see 50-year-olds who need to be put into institutions and 80-year-olds who are smart as tacks,” Marquit says. While a geriatrician may be the right fit for some seniors, a more important consideration is to find a physician who will spend time getting to know a patient’s needs and treat each individual as a partner in their care. Geriatricians are in short supply. Geriatricians are the doctors who specialize in treating older individuals. “There are specific impairments that commonly occur in the elderly: immobility, instability, incontinence, dementia, hearing loss and loss of vision,” says Robert Drapkin, a medical doctor and fellow of the American College of Physicians. “All these impairments lead to loss of independence, and once they begin occurring, the help of a geriatrician is advised.”

Sudhir Mathuria Licensed Professional Health Life 360 6776 Southwest Freeway Suite # 178 Houston TX 77074 713-771-2900 www.MyMedicarePlanning.com serve the senior population. For example, Florida had 423 geriatricians practicing in 2014, far short of the 1,772 the American Geriatric Society estimates are needed. For those who can find a geriatrician in their area, they may get a provider who specializes in senior care and access to an entire team of similar professionals. “Another advantage of working with a doctor who specializes in elder care is that they often have other geriatric specialists in their practice,” says Jennifer FitzPatrick, author of “Cruising Through Caregiving: Reducing the Stress of Caring for Your Loved One.” “This can offer a multidisciplinary approach to the complex needs of an older patient.” Specialist care may not be needed. While geriatricians may be in short supply, that doesn’t mean seniors won’t be able to access the care they need. Seth Marquit, medical director for Pritikin Longevity Center + Spa, says any good physician should be able to adequately meet the needs of adult patients of any age. “Those needs should already be understood by most doctors,” he says of the medical care required by seniors.

Unfortunately, finding a geriatrician in much of the country can be difficult. The American Geriatric Society reports there is a significant shortfall of professionals working in the field. The number of geriatricians is especially low in rural states such as Wyoming where only eight of these specialists serve

That means seniors who are happy with their current level of care shouldn’t feel compelled to change doctors simply because they turn age 65. In fact, it could be counterproductive to move to a physician who has no personal knowledge of a patient’s medical history. The best physician for an elderly patient is a physician well-trained in internal medicine who has known and followed this patient for many years,

the entire state in 2014. Other states may have more of these doctors, but they still fall short of the number needed to

For Medicare and Obama healthcare Planning contact Sudhir Mathuria @ 713-771-2900.

Sex healthy for aging women, risky for older men: study

ASHINGTON | AFP | 9/6/2016 Frequent, satisfying sexual activity poses cardiovascular risks for older men -- but regular orgasmic sex could actually protect aging women from certain health problems, researchers announced Tuesday. “These findings challenge the widely held assumption that sex brings uniform health benefits to everyone,” said Hui Liu, an associate professor of sociology at Michigan State University and lead author of the large-scale study. The researchers analyzed national survey data from 2,204 people aged 47-85 for the federally funded project, publishing the results in the “Journal of Health and Social Behavior.” Female participants who “found sex to be extremely pleasurable or satis-

fying” were less likely to develop hypertension than those who found less gratification in sex, researchers said. “This may be more relevant to women than to men,” Liu said, “because men in all relationships, regardless of quality, are more likely to receive support from their partner than are women. However, only women in good quality relationships may acquire such benefits from their partner.” The female sex hormone released during orgasm could also benefit women’s health, Liu said. On the flipside, men who had sex once or more a week were at a higher risk of cardiovascular problems. “Strikingly, we find that having sex once a week or more puts older men at a risk for experiencing cardiovascular events that is almost two times greater than older men who are sexually inac-

tive,” said Liu. “Moreover, older men who found sex with their partner extremely pleasurable or satisfying had higher risk of cardiovascular events than men who did not feel so.” Liu said as aging men become “frail and suffer more sexual problems,” the strain and pressure of sex and relationships might be to blame for the heightened heart health risks. “Because older men have more difficulties reaching orgasm for medical or emotional reasons than do their younger counterparts, they may exert themselves to a greater degree of exhaustion and create more stress on their cardiovascular system in order to achieve climax,” she said. Liu also noted that testosterone levels and the use of medications to improve libido might negatively affect male cardiovascular health.

A woman, suffering from Alzheimer’s desease, holds the hand of a relative on March 18, 2011 in a retirement house in Angervilliers, eastern France. AFP PHOTO

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Microsoft machine brains going into a refrigerator

AN FRANCISCO | AFP | 9/2/2016 - Microsoft is putting its machine brains into a Liebherr refrigerator. The US technology giant and Liebherr are collaborating on a new “SmartDeviceBox” that take the kitchen appliance beyond cooling comestibles to reminding people what they need at the market, Microsoft principal data scientist TJ Hazen said

in a blog post Friday. The box is an internet-connected module that fits inside refrigerators and freezers. Microsoft is putting machine vision capabilities to work to enable boxes to recognize milk cartons, ketchup bottles and other food inside refrigerators, according to Hazen. The SmartDeviceBox uses cameras and object recogni-

tion technology to track what is in a refrigerator, keeping an inventory list, so that can be accessed through applications tailored for smartphones powered by Android, Apple or Windows software, Microsoft news center staff member Athima Chansanchai said in an online post. “In the near future, Liebherr refrigerators will help you shop and plan meals through intelligent food management,” Chansanchai said.

Apple unveils two new iPhones

A N

FRANCISCO | AFP | 9/7/2016 - Apple on We d n e s d a y unveiled two upgraded versions of its iconic iPhone, in a move aimed at capturing more consumers in an increasingly saturated global smartphone market. Apple CEO Tim Cook introduces the new iPhone 7 during an event inside Bill Graham Civic Auditorium in San Francisco, California on September 7, 2016 (AFP The iPhone Photo/Josh Edelson). 7 and iPhone phone jack, requiring audio to veiling event. 7 Plus, with new camera technology, water be delivered via Apple’s pro“We are taking the headresistance and other features, prietary “lightning” connector phones in iPhone 7 and 7 Plus were unveiled at a media event or by wireless. to lightning, and including in San Francisco. “From the start we designed them in the box with the deOne new feature -- which lightning to be a great audio vice. We have also made an may upset some consumers connector,” Apple vice presi- adaptor, which will be included -- is the removal of the head- dent Phil Schiller told the un- in the box as well.”

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New Report Highlights Economic Challenges Facing Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Seniors in New York

ASHINGTON, D.C., September 1, 2016 – The Asian American Federation, with primary funding support from AARP, released a new report, Asian American Seniors in New York City: An Updated Snapshot, highlighting the demographic changes and economic challenges facing New York City’s fastest-growing senior population. Asian Americans represent 16% of all seniors ages 50 years and older, yet programs and resources available to Asian seniors have failed to keep pace with this growth. When it comes to New York City’s social service funding, for example, only 2.7% went to senior programs focused on Asian seniors. Jo-Ann Yoo, executive director of the Federation, said, “Since our 2003 report on Asian elders, the size and composition of our senior population have changed dramatically. Our updated report underscores the reality that the current capacity of social services is not nearly enough to meet the needs of this population. What we hope this report offers is some concrete ways in which our city and state leaders can begin to build real infrastructure to serve our seniors.” “AARP proudly supports the Federation’s report revealing insights into the rapidlygrowing community of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders age 50-plus. We hope this report will continue to debunk the model minority myth and be used by individuals, community-based organizations, nonprofit groups, media, funders, and policymakers to build the case for funding, policies, legislation, and advocacy to improve their lives,”

stated Daphne Kwok, AARP’s Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American & Pacific Islander Audience Strategy. Key findings of this report include: Growth in the Asian senior population in New York City is driven by Asian seniors immigrating late in life and by Asian immigrants aging into senior status. Major shifts in demographics are changing the ethnic mix of the Asian senior population in New York City. South Asian and “Other” Asian groups have senior populations that have more than tripled in size from 2000 to 2014. The high rates of limited English proficiency among Asian seniors contribute to increased social isolation. The diversity of languages spoken in the Asian community makes outreach and provision of services a great challenge. Asian seniors in New York City are less well-educated than Asian seniors nationally and other seniors in New York City. As a consequence, Asian seniors are more likely to be poor and low-income than Asian seniors nationally and other seniors in New York City. Because some Asian seniors immigrated later in life, they are less likely to have health insurance coverage and to receive Social Security benefits than other seniors. In order to address the increasing needs among Asian seniors, the Federation makes the following recommendations to the City: Increase the resources avail-

able for programs serving Asian seniors. Build capacity within Asianled senior programs, which are more likely to provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services for Asians seniors. Ensure that outreach to Asian seniors is conducted inlanguage and through trusted information sources for each community, including ethnic media and community-based social service organizations. Alleviate poverty by increasing access to social safety nets for more recent arrivals. Increase access to adult literacy and job skills programs for low-income Asian seniors who are still active in the labor force. Offer employment and volunteer opportunities for Asian seniors in order to increase their income and decrease their social isolation. Create affordable senior housing, including culturallyappropriate assisted living facilities. “We have seen the Asian senior population double since 2000,” said Howard Shih, research and policy director of the Federation. “With Asian seniors now comprising 16% of New York City’s senior population, we can no longer ignore their needs. We must address their language, health, and housing needs – among all the others – if we hope to support their longevity.” Beth Finkel, AARP New York State Director, added, “Like the Federation, AARP is fighting to increase funding for transportation services and improve job opportunities and affordable housing for older city residents while combatting social isolation and elder abuse.”

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VOICE OF ASIA 18

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

Your Horoscope for the Week of September 9, 2016 READ YOUR COMPLETE HOROSCOPE

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

ONLINE WWW.VOICEOFASIAONLINE.COM

Libra (R,T) 23 Sept to 22 Oct

Aries (A,L,E) 21 March to 20 April You may find it stressful to balance needs for freedom and independence with needs for love and companionship. People or things which might offend your senses at other times now uplift your appreciation and interest. This will not be a boring time if you can help it! But it is apt to be a tense time if you are not communicating right with your spouse. Concentrate while driving & pay attention on your speed limits. Avoid stock market or any gambling related activities, otherwise you may lose money.

Disappointments with friends or people in general are likely. You are hypersensitive and need much affection & support but are feeling shy asking for it. Others’ callousness, clumsiness, or heartlessness affect you more than usual, and you are rather unrealistic in your hopes and expectations of them. You may also be overly adaptable and accommodating in your relationships at this time, enabling others to continue in their bad habits or to take advantage of your unconditional support.

Taurus (B,V,U) 21 April to 20 May

Scorpio (N,Y) 23 Oct to 21 Nov

You will be paying more than hundred percent at your work. You are foreseeing so many opportunities in your path ahead & you want to prepare yourself for that sweet fruit. You will be so much occupied in your work life that you may accidently ignore paying attention at home front but your spouse will totally be in your support. Cooperation from spouse will make you more stronger, you will be able to focus on your goals & targets. Old friends or relatives will try to get in touch.

You have to take care of yourself. Good health should be your first priority at this time or it may create hurdle in your progress. The flow of money will be normal & regular. The money due from others may get delayed. But only, proper budget planning will make smooth financial flow. Spouse & family members will be supportive & co-operative. You will have to give some time regarding children’s education issues, which you may not be able to delay.

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

Gemini (K,CHH,GH) 21 May to 20 June Intellectual disagreements or differences of opinion and viewpoints may surface up. You may have to speak your mind in a way that challenges or unnerves someone else. However, your mind is very active and sharp, and your reasoning power is good, so this is a good time to do mental work. It is easy for you to talk about your feelings now and also to listen sensitively to not only what others are saying but also what they are feeling.

Unusual ventures, unexpected events which create the need for considerable adjustment on your part are indicated now. Whatever agenda you had planned is apt to be spontaneously disregarded for what may well be a better alternative. However, you are prone to be more than a little reckless now, so be certain you are not jeopardizing those areas of your life which are your support structure and which in fact enable you to experiment and do some of the things you want to do.

Capricorn (KH,J) 22 Dec to 20 Jan

Cancer (D,H) 21 June to 22 July Your interactions with others and with the outside world in general which can be confusing, and discouraging. It seems that whatever you try to do goes nowhere or gets lost in a haze of misunderstanding. Taking time off, working quietly, or doing something primarily for the benefit of others without concern for personal gain is favored at this time. At this time, you’re likely to feel that you cannot make your desires or influence felt, and that things go awry when you try to assert yourself, make an impact.

Your mind will be very creative & you will be eager to discuss your thoughts and plans with others at this time and you may have a very fruitful brainstorming session, a spirited debate, or a very active meeting with others in which things really get accomplished. You are verbally assertive and can present your own plan or idea quite convincingly. Good time to make new friends, meet new people. Your creativity will flow along with communication with other people.

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

Leo (M) 23 July to 22 August Your ability to concentrate and focus on your work is which very good now. This is a time to attend to details, take care of practical business, and to make your life more stable and secure. It would be beneficial to consult advisors on investments and longrange plans and to put your affairs in order. Eliminating waste and inefficiency is important to you now. There is much activity; you move rapidly from one thing to another and a hectic, somewhat stressful pace is likely.

Virgo (P) 23 August to 22 September You getting what you really want and moving toward achieving the things which are important to you may involve surrendering something or eliminating something from your life at this time. Perhaps an attitude, a situation, or an attachment that has been impeding you is now released. You feel free to concentrate on the things that are most important to you now. Major, long-term changes can be successfully begun now - a lifestyle change or a regimen of self-improvement, for instance.

Your serious mind and you are able to concentrate on work that requires patience, attention to detail, and precision. Practical concerns dominate. It is a good time to learn practical skills, do your taxes, organize your files, and take care of business. You’ll want to avoid light social conversation that distract you from your work. Friendships and cooperative endeavors flourish now. You will achieve a harmonious balance of giving and receiving and of talking and listening, and any social or joint activity will benefit.

Pisces (D,CH,Z) 20 Feb to 20 March Your Involvement with influential people or any other group is likely to be a focus at this time. You may be asked to take responsibility or even a leadership role or to contribute and participate more fully than you have in the past. You will enjoy being part of a team or group effort now. Being part of a community or circle of friends and building your social network is important to you at this time. This will defiantly turn out rewardable in coming days. You have to maintain balance at your home front too. Budgeting & planning will be required for certain personal expenses. -

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VOICE OF ASIA 19

Divorce Announcement

FRIDAY, September 9, 2016

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I, Karen Suello Doble am filing for a divorce against George Rivas Doble, Jr., Cause No. 88159-F, filed in the 300th District Court of Brazoria County in the State of Texas, filed on the 26th day of August 2016, in the matter of my marriage with George Rivas Doble, Jr. More details can be had by contacting the District Clerk’s Office, 111 E. Locust, Suite 500, Angleton, TX 77515-4678. District Clerk Rhonda Barchak has issued the citation which has been authorized by Michelle Bailey, Deputy of the District Court in Texas.

MANAGEMENT TIP OF THE DAY When Delegating, Make Accountability Clear The word “accountable” can mean different things to different people. This is why delegation often backfires: The person taking on the task doesn’t know how much authority she has. The next time you delegate something, be explicit about which of these three roles the accountable person should play: Issue owner. In this role, the person has complete control over the decision. A full team may be assigned to help, but the issue owner can make the decision however she chooses. Team coordinator. The person is an equal member of the team, with the added responsibility of logistics, such as scheduling and defining the agenda. She’s responsible for ensuring that there is a discussion, but she isn’t responsible for the outcome. If the team can’t come to an agreement, she must escalate the decision. Tiebreaker. This person doesn’t have the absolute authority of an issue owner, but she’s more than just a coordinator. She’s responsible for helping the team reach a decision: In the absence of consensus, she makes the final call. Source: Adapted from “To Hold Someone Accountable, First Define What Accountable Means,” by Bob Frisch and Cary Greene WWW.HBR.ORG

REAL ESTATE Stucco Vs Brick by Dilip Kapasi We talked about stucco versus brick in the last article. Here is more about the benefits of each and some alternatives. Benefits of brick In addition to its aesthetic appeal, brick offers several benefits over stucco. Brick veneer used to build walls and siding can reduce energy costs, and also decrease fire insurance rates because it is less of a safety hazard than other building materials. In some markets, a brick home has a higher resale value than nonbrick homes. Brick is also an attractive option for homeowners and builders who are working with a very tight budget. Benefits of stucco Stucco is often an attractive option for homes in a warm or hot climate. It can also be used as a building material to fill any cracks or gaps between mortar joints in a concrete wall. Stucco has insulating benefits, and can be layered over brick to trap in heat and reduce energy costs. Considerations for brick If you select brick as your building material, learn about any finishing solutions or painting services that may cost you extra. It’s important to learn about the different types of brick available and the level of durability of each so you are making the most informed long-term invest-

ment. Considerations for stucco Some types of stucco are more expensive because the manufacturing plant is overseas, or the stucco requires a special treatment to color or apply it with a special finish. It’s important to confirm these details when meeting with your building contractor, and request a cost breakdown of the materials and labor involved with the project. Alternatives If you like the look of stucco but do not want to completely remodel or renovate your existing brick walls, have stucco applied over the brick. A siding specialist or building contractor can cement a thick layer of stucco directly onto the brick wall or siding relatively quickly and easily, and the stucco can be textured with different finishes depending on the look or theme you are trying to achieve. An alternate is to combine both, brick and stucco, on a house exterior for even a greater appeal. In the next few articles we will explore what one should look for in a house to purchase. Continued.. Dilip Kapasi is a licensed Real Estate Agent in Houston. He can be reached at dilipmeena@yahoo.com for any question you may have.

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