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Asia Today, LLC, 1050 E Ray Road, Suite 5 #318, Chandler, AZ 85225
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• June 2011
Uniting all South Asians in the Valley
Monthly Newspaper • Vol-IV
• Issue-6
• Phone : 480-250-2519
• [email protected]
• June 2011
IREO Dinner and Presentation with Vijay Amritraj at India Oven
Gilbert, Arizona by Deepa Walia May 7, 2011 REO, one of the leading pan India developers and the largest foreign direct investment investor in Indian property hosted a dinner and presentation at India Oven in Gilbert, Arizona on May 7, 2011. The IREO team, along with the famous tennis player Vijay Amritraj, addressed the impressive turnout of people with details on investment opportunities in India and their current projects. After formal presentations, guests enjoyed a mouth-watering dinner by the India Oven team and had the opportunity to speak with Mr. Vijay Amritraj as he shared stories
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of his tennis days. Asia Today is pleased to share some pictures from the event, as well as provide more information on IREO. About IREO: IREO is one of the leading pan India developers, and IREO was the first and hasbeen the largest FDI (foreign direct investment) investor in Indian property. IREOhas been present in India since 2003 and has invested US $1.5 billion in a portfolioof high quality executable projects in prime locations across 3,000 acres of ownedland - one of the leading pan India asset portfolios. The company has evolved as a fully integrated real estate organization that is the developer of its projects,and
possesses a diversified portfolio consisting of master-planned gated communities,mixed-use office and retail spaces, industrial parks including SEZs, and hospitalityproperties. The company has US $500 million of available funds for additional projectsand a long-term orientation. IREO’s investor base consists of blue chip and globallyrenowned financial institutions, endowments, high-networth individuals and families,and major global real estate developers including: JP Morgan Chase, TPGAxon, CitadelInvestment Group, Tiger Partners, Stanford University, University of Minnesota, University of Notre Dame, the Getty Family, Reichmann • Continued on P5
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www.asiatodayaz.com FROM THE DESK OF ASIA TODAY
• June 2011 Uniting all South Asians in the Valley
Monthly Newspaper
• Vol-IV • Issue-6 • June 2011 • [email protected]
Asia Today Team Marketing Director: Manju (Manjeet K Walia) Editor: Deepa Walia (MS CIS) (Sandeep Kaur) Publisher & Designer: Raja (BA) (Gagandeep Singh Walia) Patron: Mini from California (Damanjot Kaur Walia) Jyoti from New Jersey (Navjot Kaur Singh) Surinder Singh Pall (Reporter from New Jersey) Press Photographer Sameer Soorma www.sameersoorma.com
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Life
as buses and subways, instead of cabs. This visit, I was even more adventurous and rented a car twice – once to drive to Amsterdam with ay was an incredible month for me, because four others I had just met and the second time of how much it taught me about myself and alone in a BMW 2 door coupe cruising down the life in the USA. I spent the last two weeks of Autobahn and driving the German Wine Trail. Germany taking a business course that taught The experience was exhilarating and the sense us about the similarities and differences in doing of accomplishment amazing but the importance business in the US versus the European Union. of this story is not what I accomplished by how Editor’s At the prestigious Otto Beisheim School of and why. Management, we had professors come in and I was able to get to this level of out and talk about the students who graduate comfort in foreign countries because of my from there and take the high-paying jobs in the increased travel and experiences in foreign US market. While they are offered 25% higher salaries, they countries. As South Asians, we stress the importance of are not offered the same work-life balance that Europeans academic education to our children but always fall short enjoy. After my two weeks in Spain, France, and Italy in March and now the two weeks in Germany, I am really starting to in understanding what can be learned through travel and understand what people mean when they say Europeans adventures cannot be learned through books. We can read know how to live far more than we in the United States do. about the Grand Canal in Venice, but cannot experience it I don’t know how much that has to do with the fact that the through books – the feel of the wind in your face as you take USA is a melting pot of immigrant families that came to here a water taxi to your next destination can only be had when to follow the American dream, rose from poverty to make a travelling there. People my age I have met in my travels life for themselves or provide a better future for their children. have been exposed to foreign travel from a young age and Having come from that type of background, it is easy to make can recount experiences while I can only recount readings education and career the sole purpose of your life but, in from books and cannot parallel the excitement and passion in their faces. They are so much comfortable picking up a bus doing so, one forgets how to live. My family came from humble beginnings and we didn’t schedule and hopping on a bus, being more cost effective in have much growing up and I myself invested a lot of time in their travels, since they have been doing it for so long. I am studies and my career, as did my siblings, wanting to rise from starting to understand the importance of a balance between that and enjoy the finer things in life. However, in doing so, and experience and education and starting to compensate there came a time when I was so engrossed in my career that I where I fall short. But, having learned this, I really stress to did not have any time to enjoy what I was working so hard for. our readers the importance of exposing our children to these Forcing myself to shut down from work two weeks, meeting experiences at an early age. We take them back to our home new individuals through international courses, listening to countries because we feel that they cannot really learn our them talk about their perspectives on life and how it should heritage through family stories and books; the same is true be lived, I feel like it opened the door to a whole new world. of worldly knowledge. The world is truly getting smaller In addition to meeting new people, I also took chances through technology and globalization and the generations of and met new experiences. My first visit to Europe, I played tomorrow will have to be globally learned to succeed. Give it safe and took the rail system from city to city as I went them a competitive edge!!! -Deepa Walia touring. Towards the end of the visit, I started opening up a Editor, Asia Today, [email protected] little more to the cities and using public transportation such
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good you are compared to someone and what you want to take a brief moment to reflect on Asia can learn from them to be better. In the end, win Today. We originally started with the idea of or lose, everyone always had a good time and providing local event coverage to any event in looked forward to the next. However, this mentalthe South Asian community in Arizona. To this ity changes as you get older. Instead of trying to day, any event coordinator that has contacted us work harder, people start stealing the video game we have covered and featured in our newspaper. controller or trying to double team you just to see The growing population of the South Asian comyou lose. Winning has never been everything; it’s munity since we started the newspaper has been Publisher’s always the sense of accomplishment and a reason tremendous which leads us to be involved in more to do something that matters. If your sole purpose and more events and a broader coverage base is to watch someone fail or lose, then you cannot from a media perspective. However, we always succeed. It’s impossible; in order to be successful have and will continue to stress the importance of communication. We cannot cover an event that we do not you have to have passion about what you’re doing. You have know about. All we need is basic information such as what, to treat it as a small child and your responsibility towards it when, who is the coordinator? We also need at least a notice is making sure it is safe, nurtured, and has enough of a time of a few days before the event so we can plan accordingly investment from you. It’s not something you can put on auto and make sure we have everything ready, etc. As long as pilot, it’s not something you can start and walk away from. we know about it in advance and have media access, we You have to have passion, a drive that motivates you to will cover the event. That is what we set out to accomplish continue to do what you’re doing the best you can.As soon and that is what we do today. If you have any questions or as you start competing, you lose focus on what you like to need to know who to contact please go to our website www. do and focus instead onyourself. To wrap up, this summer is definitely going to be a hot asiatodayaz.comand anyone on there, including myself, can easily be reached. With the growing community in Arizona, summer packed with excitement. We are having an amazing we definitely have the manpower to make sure every event set of shows come to the Valley of the Sun and it kicks off can be covered. We do not require pictures or even articles with the legendary Debi Makhsoospuri, followed by Shaan and the only thing we need is information about the event. and Sonu Nigam all in one month! What a way to start off Our in house team handles all written content, design, and the summer! Remember to buy your tickets in advance and avoid those lines. Go to www.maujaz.com to purchase tickets photography. Having stressed that important point, a few reflections for the Debi Makhsoospuri show. Click the purchase ticket on how we change from childhood to adults. When I was a link and just do a search for “debi” and pick your seat. It’s kid I loved playing games…toys, blocks, video games didn’t that easy! See guys there and hope you enjoy the shows. -Raja Walia matter, and I always had a fun time with friends and my family. It was never about competition; it was always to see how Publisher/Designer, Asia Today. [email protected]
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IREO Dinner and Presentation with Vijay Amritraj at India Oven Family from Canada, and StephenRoss from the Related Companies. IREO’s team comprises more than 300 people across seven offices in India, plus offices in New York and Mauritius. The company’s managementteam consists of internationally experienced and accomplished Indian and expatriateprofessionals from diverse backgrounds including such firms as Ascendas, DLF, ColonyCapital, MSD Capital, Goldman Sachs, ICICI, Cargill, Ernst and Young, and others.IREO’s portfolio of 14 announced projects is geographically diverse and encompassesthe development of residential, office, retail and hospitality properties in Indiaacross prime locations within the Delhi NCR, Punjab, Chennai, Pune, the Goa region,and Coimbatore. Our projects have been designed by top international architecturalfirms such as Sasaki, Urban Design Associates, and Sorg and Associates, and use only the highest quality finishes providing superior value and durability. Selectingand integrating complex technologies to design living spaces is both an art and a science: IREO is committed to integrating residential areas with places of workand recreation with seamless connectivity. It is IREO’s goal to build an environmentthat is energy efficient and ecofriendly, and its use of the latest technology will result in an entirely new level of comfort, convenience and security. In IREO’sfirst commercial project, EON Kharadi (Pune), India’s first IT Special Economic Zone, approximately 1.5 million square feet of commercial real estate space has been constructed and leased. Currently, it is home to high-quality global tenantsincluding Vodafone, Barclays, Hewlett-Packard, EDS, SunGard, Eaton and Honeywell. One North located in Pune, was IREO’s first residential development, and is in partnershipwith Panchshil Realty. Additionally, IREO has launched six million square feet of housing in 2010. In 2009, the company successfully launched a series of residential projects in Gurgaon. Outlined below are brief descriptions of IREO’s recent development projects with links to their websites.
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Bhagavad Katha at Hindu Temple H indu Temple of Arizona was graced by the presence of H. H. Swami Dr. Ram Kamal Das Vedantiji Maharaj who gave Shri Bhagavad Katha Pravachan from May 1-7, 2011. Pujya Vedantiji, a resident of Varanasi (Kashi), is an eloquent speaker. He has published numerous works like Bhakti Panth, Vedanta Pravah, and Manas Vandana. Having a Ph.D. in the Upanishads & an M.A. in Hindi, he is an internationally known scholar. He was one of many well-known scholars invited to the United Nations’ World Peace Summit in the year 2000. The event was attended by devotees all week long. Event highlights were : • Shobha Yatra, Bhagavad Mahatmya Katha • Hiranyarath Vadh and Dhruv Charitra. • Prahlad Moksha Katha • Shri Krishna Janamotsav • Govardhan Katha and Chhappan Bhog • Rukmini Vivaha and Raaslila • Sudama and Shri Krishna Milan and Purnahuti Thank you to all devotees who attended and supported this event!
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Are You Stress Free?
About H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
H The Art of Living Foundation
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he degree to which stress unduly influences our lives is generally underestimated: Often the mind clings on to anger, guilt, or regret about the past, or is plagued by anxiety and worry about the future. This oscillation of mind causes tension and stress both for ourselves and for the people around us and leads to reduced effectiveness in action. The Art of Living Foundation offers stresselimination programs which include breathing techniques, meditation and yoga. These programs have helped millions around the world to overcome stress, depression and violent tendencies. About the Art of Living Foundation Founded in 1981 by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living Foundation is a not-forprofit, edu-cational and humanitarian NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) engaged in stress-management and service initiatives. The organization operates globally in 151 countries. The organization’s programs are based on Sri Sri’s philosophy of peace: “Unless we have a stressfree mind and a violence-free society, we cannot achieve world Peace”. The Art of Living Foundation has spread peace across communities through diverse humanitarian projects, including conflict resolution, disaster relief, sustainable rural development, empo-werment of women, prisoner rehabilitation, education for all, and environmental sustainability. For more info, visit http://www.artofliving.org.
is Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shankar is a humanitarian leader, spiritual teacher and an ambassador of peace. His vision of a stress-free, violence-free society has united millions of people the world over through service projects and the courses of the Art of Living. A noted humanitarian leader, Sri Sri’s programs have provided assistance to people from a wide range of backgrounds – victims of natural disasters, survivors of terror attacks and war, children from marginalized populations and communities in conflict, among others. The strength of his message has inspired a wave of service based on spirituality through a huge body of volunteers, who are driving these projects forward in critical areas around the globe. As a spiritual teacher, Sri Sri has rekindled the traditions of yoga and meditation and offered them in a form that is relevant to the 21st century. Beyond reviving ancient wisdom, Sri Sri has created new techniques for personal and social transformation. These include the Sudarshan Kriya® which has helped millions of people to find relief from stress and discover inner reser-voirs of energy and peace in daily life. In a mere 29 years, his programs have raised the quality of life for participants in 151 countries. For more info, visit http://www.srisri.org.
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The Art of Living at Work in Phoenix
he Art of Living in Phoenix recently celebrated the inauguration of their new local center on the 13th of May last month, which also coincided with the birthday of H. H. Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. The foundation has a strong presence in the Phoenix valley area, and offers a wide variety of programs for all, ranging from the ART Excel (All Round Training in Excellence) for kids of age 8 – 13 years, to the Art of Living Course for adults age 18 years and above. The YES! Program (Youth Empowerment Seminar) is offered for ages 14 – 18 years. The YESPLUS workshop (Yoga, Empowerment and Service) is offered for ages 18 – 32 years and is focused on college students and young professionals. An ART Excel course is being offered starting from the 3rd to the 6th of June in Phoenix (more info available at, http://tiny.cc/ARTExcel) and an Art of Living Course from the 8th to the 12th of July at the new center which is located in Tempe (more info available at, http://tiny.cc/AOLCourse). For additional info regarding Art of Living activities in the valley and around the world, feel free to contact the coordinators at (480)-577-6333 or [email protected].
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he Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America declares May to be “National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month.” It is a peak season for asthma and allergy sufferers and is a perfect month to educate patients, family, friends, co-workers and others about these diseases. Cough, sneeze and wheeze! You know the symptoms, but do you really know the cause? The similarities between the symptoms of flu or cold and nasal allergies (also called allergic rhinitis, indoor or outdoor allergies, seasonal allergies or hay fever) can cause confusion. Allergies usually cause running nose with clear discharge, stuffy nose, violent sneezing, and wheezing, coughing, watery and itchy eyes. There is no fever. They may occur at anytime in the year: spring, summer, fall or winter. Symptoms may begin immediately after exposure to the allergens and last as long as you are exposed to the allergen. Flu or cold symptoms usually include running nose with yellow discharge, aches and pains, sore and scratchy
throat along with sneezing and coughing. Fever is usually present with the flu. It usually appears in the winter and lasts up to a week, rarely more than ten days. Flu or cold is commonly due to a virus, occurs when you come in direct contact with an infected person. Over the counter medications like decongestant or nasal spray can help relieve the symptoms along with rest and lots of fluids. Nasal allergies occur during the exposure to the allergen. They are not contagious. Common indoor and outdoor allergens include tree, grass, weed pollens, dust mites, animal dander, mold and cockroaches. Dust mites are most common cause of year round allergies and asthma symptoms. Many allergens and irritants are suspended in household air. They are also resting on surfaces like rugs, furniture and countertops. Keeping these surfaces clean is an important step in controlling allergy
and asthma triggers. Allergy tests help to confirm the allergies one may have. Skin prick tests are the common tests for allergy. RAST (radioallergosorbent test) and related blood tests use radioactive or enzyme markers to detect IgE antibodies. They are useful when skin test is difficult due to widespread rash or if you are anxious about the skin prick tests. Elimination diets are useful with food allergies. The most common food allergens are milk, soybean, peanut, eggs, wheat, nuts, shellfish and corn. There is no cure for allergies. But there are over the counter and prescription medications to treat allergy symptoms. You can use antihistamines or topical corticosteroid nasal sprays. When medications are not helping and you are having a hard time avoiding allergens, it might be time to consider allergen immunotherapy. People with perennial or prolonged allergies are generally good candidates, as well
as those needing multiple medications for their symptoms. With allergen immunotherapy, you receive increasingly higher doses of allergens over time and so you become gradually less sensitive to them. It is the only treatment that has the potential to provide long term prevention of allergic asthma or rhinitis symptoms. Allergy immunotherapy may have a lasting effect after it is stopped, whereas medications do not. Subcutaneous immunotherapy or SCIT involving allergy shots are effective at controlling symptoms but involve frequent injections and the injection schedule can be difficult to maintain. Sublingual immunotherapy or SLIT involves a similar schedule of solution of allergy extracts, often called allergy drops administered under the tongue. Allergy drops are convenient to use, less intrusive than the allergy shots and so more tolerable. Immunotherapy is safe. Side-effects like allergic reactions and anaphylaxis can occur, they are less likely with SLIT than SLIT. by Dr. KathyaKonuru of Phoenician Medical Center
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Indian Children Growing up in the West in the Presence of Grandparents E
very Sunday while attending services at a local Gurdwara, I watch parents holding the hands of their little children and guiding them to bow in front of Guru Granth Sahib Ji with humility, reverence and discipline before they take their seats. Once in a while, one gets to experience the reverse. Some elders from India using canes or walkers and in need of help are guided by their little Americanborn grandchildren. These children are not yet fully mature, but despite their young ages, they seem to fully enjoy their assigned responsibility. They try their best to exhibit concern and ensure that their brittle, elderly grandparents are not pushed or pulled excessively. These little angels try to walk and bow like adults and exhibit a fair degree of maturity despite their tender ages. They stay with their grandparents throughout the service and seem not to care, even if they miss their activities with other children of their age. Most of them are born and raised in the West by immigrant parents and go to the same schools as the children of indigenous Americans. But when it comes to awareness about the wellbeing of their parents and grandparents, the differences becomes obvious. In fact, this difference is what made me think and write about this piece. The lifestyle of Indians in India as well as in the countries abroad is rapidly changing, thanks to the strong influence of Western culture. The Western culture’s affinity for emphasizing an attitude of “me first, me only, and me all” is truly like a magnet, attracting everyone. Added to the “me first” attitude is the emphasis on youth and youthfulness. Everyone agrees that many cultural and economical aspects of the lifestyles in the Western world, to say the least, are impeccable. If it were not so, many of us would not have come here. Yet, what is bothersome is the continuous erosion of some of the worthy characteristics and qualities that we brought with us from back home. One of the major qualities of Eastern culture that has been passed down from generation to generation is the commitment to take care of the elderly, especially parents and grandparents. Slowly and steadily, after settling in the West, the immigrants from the countries of the East start to lose this noble cultural concept in their rather hurried steps towards a superficial assimilation. Our children learn their behaviors from what they watch and absorb from the surroundings in which they live. The centuries-old practice of India’s extended-family system that
Dr. Jaswant Singh Sachdev, MD* Phoenix, Arizona
offers a respectable and active status to the grandparents in family matters has always created a positive impact on many growing children in India. It exposes Indian children to a practical way of taking care of the grandparents. The grandparents, on the other hand, enjoy having a say in the household regarding the growth and development of their grandchildren. After immigrating to the West, the young parents of these little children first have to establish themselves and this requires a lot of time and effort. In order to make a reasonable living and achieve a comfortable lifestyle, both parents end up working. Not only do they have to work hard, but they also must endure longer hours of absence from home and children. In such an environment, the first casualty happens to be the children who are left home alone or those who have to be outsourced to a babysitter. In situations where children are not under the direct observation of a close and reliable relative, problems tend to ensue. Young children need social interaction and guidance. When these are in short supply, any resulting developmental or emotional damage, though not apparent, may end up sustaining its ill-effects for the rest of their lives. Having grandparents around not only serves the intended purpose of babysitting but it also brings a sense of closeness to these children. The love and affection that grandparents shower on young children is much more than anything money can ever buy. Additionally, the presence of the grandparents makes these young children develop the skills to communicate with them easily in their language and thus learn and develop those well-established Eastern moral
experiences will help prepare them for their future encounters with such issues when their own parents turn old and infirm. Becoming part of the lives of elderly grandparents at a time when the minds of children are still in developing stages, can ultimately offer such children a wholesome view of entire span of life. Such an experience will prepare them for the real world, far beyond that which they gain from a lifestyle of instant gratification that is so prevalent all around them, all the time in the Western world. Ironically, the family values, often talked about in Western countries are limited in scope usually to spouses and immediate children. Grandparents – the parents of the parents -- are not included or considered part of the core family, both legally and culturally. In the American culture, an adult often will refer to his or her spouse’s parents as “his folks” or “her folks.” This clearly speaks volumes about the relationship she or he perceives or the respect she or he has for the parents of his or her spouse. Like many others, I also did not comprehend this phenomenon when I entered this culture in the early seventies for the first time. However the awakening about this Western cultural novelty, if one may call it so, didn’t take long to dawn upon me. Given the prevalent concept of remoteness and self-indulgence in Western culture, there is a dire need for all of us to take pause. The presence of grandparents during the development of growing children is a blessing we can ill-afford to ignore. Every effort must be made by those whose parents are still alive to arrange for their presence during the growing phase of their own children. The path shown by this age-old golden concept of Indian culture in offering due respect to the elderly and helpless grandparents will be a blessing for which their children will always be obligated and thankful. In this lies not only a great benefit for our children, but also the Mukti or salvation for us that we so dearly seek throughout our living days on Mother Earth.
values. The grandparents also find it easier to share their thoughts with their grandchildren, thus allowing the children of newer generations to remain connected to their roots. Not all immigrants from India share such a philosophy, and many may question the usefulness of having such close connections with their ‘roots.’ They may believe that once we are here, we are here forever, and sooner or later our generations will assimilate with the indigenous culture. So what is the need for putting extraordinary efforts into maintaining those roots? Looking at the Hispanic and other immigrant minorities who preceded us, it becomes apparent that a concept of retaining one’s “roots” is not foolproof, and in a good number of situations, it doesn’t happen despite a great amount of effort. The Western culture and lifestyle often makes family relationships distant and artificial. The eventualities of old age are never explained to the children. Rather, the children born in this culture are actively and intentionally kept away from the sick and diseased. They are denied the opportunity to witness the difficulties of later life, as well as the natural processes of death and dying. The parents find no time to encourage or take their children to religious institutions where discussion and guidance about life and its related difficulties usually take place. Allowing the children to grow under the umbrella of mature guidance of their grandparents will provide them with the impetus to look beyond this Adapted from the author’s book“Square superficial and filtered lifestyle. They will be able to experience the ups and Pegs, Round Holes. ”For more information downs in the lives of people in the last on the book, please visit, www. years of their stay on the earth. Such SquarePegsRooundHolesBook.com
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Political Thoughts by Arizona Senator www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
The Future of American Prosperity
May 9, 2011 Members of both parties agree that Washington’s present fiscal course is dangerously unsustainable. We’re now borrowing 40 cents for every dollar we spend. This profligacy continues to weaken the dollar, threatening its status as the global reserve currency and fostering anxiety in the bond markets. Last month, Standard & Poor’s delivered a sobering wake-up call when it revised its outlook on the U.S. long-term credit rating from “stable” to “negative.” No question, our accounts must be brought into balance - but not at the expense of economic growth. Those who advocate gigantic tax increases are shortsighted. Amid a sluggish recovery, abrupt tax hikes could drive the economy back into recession. (That’s what happened in Japan during the late 1990s.) Moreover, it will be impossible to generate sufficient revenue without robust growth. A rapidly expanding economy creates new jobs and income for investment in wealth-creating enterprises. Some of that wealth flows back to the government and can be used to reduce the debt.The policy tools we use to restore fiscal stability will go a long way toward shaping the future of American prosperity and promoting the economic expansion we need. Will we impose tax hikes that discourage investment and punish job creation? Or will we make the tax system more efficient and conducive to growth? As these and other questions are debated, policymakers should consult the evidence from other industrialized countries, which overwhelmingly suggests that spending cuts, not tax hikes, are the best way to close massive budget gaps and help produce economic growth. Indeed, after studying large-scale fiscal adjustments by wealthy, developed countries between 1970
and 2007, Harvard economists Alberto Alesina and Silvia Ardagna determined that “spending cuts are much more effective than tax increases in stabilizing the debt and avoiding economic downturns.” Moreover, they found “several episodes in which spending cuts adopted to reduce deficits have been associated with economic expansions rather than recessions.” Goldman Sachs economists Ben Broadbent and Kevin Daly recently undertook a similar study that reviewed every major fiscal correction in wealthy nations since 1975. They found that “decisive budgetary adjustments that have focused on reducing government expenditures have (i) been successful in correcting fiscal imbalances; (ii) typically boosted growth; and (iii) resulted in significant bond and equity market outperformance. Tax-driven fiscal adjustments, by contrast, typically fail to correct fiscal imbalances and are damaging for growth.” Broadbent and Daly pointed to successful fiscal adjustments in Ireland (198789), Sweden (1994-98), and Canada (199497). In each case, the adjustment was driven primarily by cuts in public spending. Sweden in particular is famous for the generosity of its welfare state. Yet, when faced with a crisis, Swedish officials were able to trim the size of government substantially. If Stockholm could do it back in the mid1990s, Washington can do it today. Reducing the short-term deficit and stabilizing the long-term debt are critically important to American prosperity and living standards. But studies show that if fiscal consolidation relies heavily on tax increases, it will stifle economic growth and prove counterproductive. This is the lesson we must apply as we try to forge a genuine bipartisan compromise to deal with our debt crisis.
Small Business Health Relief Act May 23, 2011 The American health-care system needs genuine reform. Unfortunately, its biggest problems and inefficiencies - such as the rising cost of health care - were not addressed, and were even exacerbated by President Obama’s health plan. Although I remain firmly committed to full repeal of the deeply-flawed and damaging ObamaCare, the reality is that President Obama will never allow that to happen as long as he’s in office. That is why I have recently introduced the Small Business Health Relief Act, which will repeal some of the onerous and damaging mandates in ObamaCare until the Supreme Court invalidates the law, or Congress and a willing president allow us to repeal it. One such provision imposes a new fee on health insurers to help pay for ObamaCare. The Small Business Health Relief Act would lower health insurance premiums for all Americans by eliminating that pass-through fee. The non-partisan Joint Committee on Taxation confirms: “We expect a very large portion of the insurance industry fee to be passed forward to purchasers of insurance in the form of higher premiums.” We need to lower premiums, not cause them to go up. So, my bill repeals this provision. JCT estimates that repeal of the fee will lower premiums for the average family by $350$400 in 2016 alone. ObamaCare is also rife with taxes and other expenses on businesses at a time when unemployment continues to hover around nine percent. In fact, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has referred to ObamaCare’s employer mandate - a central piece of the law - as a “job killer,” because it “would force struggling employers to spend money they don’t have, reduce
flexibility and choice, and raise employer costs in an economy that is already shedding jobs.” We should avoid any policy that is a “job killer,” and, instead, focus on policies to stimulate job creation. This is why I have included repeal of the job-killing employer mandate in the Small Business Health Relief Act. ObamaCare hurts job creation in other ways. For example, it also dictates how much coverage small businesses must provide and individuals must purchase. But many small businesses and people operating and living in the real world simply cannot afford to shoulder the cost for the generous levels of coverage that Washington deems necessary. The Small Business Health Relief Act has a set of other provisions that will lighten the burden of health-related costs on small business. Finally, the bill ensures that high deductible plans coupled with health savings accounts (HSAs) continue to play a prominent role in the coverage options available to individuals and small businesses. A recent article by Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels stated that Indiana was able to save $20 million in 2010 alone because of the state offered an HSA option to its employees. The more than 70 percent of state workers who chose the HSA option ran up only $65 in cost for every $100 incurred by their colleagues under the old coverage. If Indiana has such great success with this consumer-directed coverage option, then small businesses and individuals can too - and Congress should not get in the way. My goal is to provide some breathing room to small businesses and American families while we wait for our chance to fully repeal the deeply-flawed ObamaCare. I believe the Small Business Relief Act takes an important step towards the goal of full repeal.
The 21st Century’s ‘Belt of Freedom and Democracy” May 16, 2011 Twenty years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union and the reassertion of their independence, Ukraine, Georgia, Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia have been well-described as a “belt of freedom and democracy,” buffering the rest of Europe from Russia. While each country is different, each shares a strong commitment to maintaining its hard-fought independence. The process of developing democracy and building a free market economic system after 50 years of communist subjugation is hard enough. But having to deal with a large and menacing neighbor bent on sabotaging their efforts makes it all the more difficult. In spite of its size and military might, Russia’s actions continue to manifest a lack of confidence in its own system. The increasing success of neighboring states previously part of the Soviet Union highlights the dichotomy. Regardless of the motivation, Russia’s actions are being resisted, and the governments of Georgia and the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania) seek help from the United States. More than any transactional process of concession-based “reset” between the United States and Russia, what is most likely to improve Russia’s behavior and relationship with the West is the success of these countries (in part because it would also serve as a powerful and inspiring example to the Russian people). So, what can we do to help? Even though each of these countries face unique challenges and offer distinct opportunities, all five eagerly seek closer ties and cooperation with the U.S. Unfortunately, there is a significant Russian influence in Ukraine, so it is not making as much progress as it could either politically or economically. Members of the opposition party helped see Ukraine through the Orange Revolution, but were unable to live up to expectations. Ukraine needs foreign investment, but until it can successfully implement lasting reforms, investors will be cautious about exposing themselves to a business climate with extensive corruption. Despite the 2008 Russian invasion into South Ossetia and Abkhazia, Georgian prospects are more hopeful. The dynamic leadership of Mikheil Saakasvilli is modeled on the economic principles of Ronald Reagan and Milton Friedman. With Russian troops still occupying one-fifth of this country and nearly 1,000 troops fighting alongside U.S. forces in Afghanistan, Georgia has requested and should be allowed to purchase defensive weapons from the United States. Likewise, Georgia, as a future NATO member, is an excellent site to support missile defense of the
United States and Europe. Economic cooperation in the form of a free trade agreement with the United States and admission into the E.U. would also help ensure Georgia’s long term success. The Baltic States have fared better. However, in its continued efforts to keep major parts of Europe dependent on Russian energy, Russia has frustrated Lithuania’s attempt to secure financing and commitments for a nuclear power plant (to replace a Soviet-era plant required to shut down as a condition of E.U. membership). This could represent an investment opportunity for U.S. companies. The Baltic States have demonstrated their commitment to NATO and the U.S. by participating in both Iraq and Afghanistan without caveats, and Estonia is one of a few NATO members prepared to honor its pledge to spend two percent of GDP on defense. All three want NATO to continue “air policing” over their territory and we believe they are willing to provide the bases and reimburse the U.S. for our costs. This arrangement could serve as an example for other NATO members as we reconfigure our force structure in Europe. The Baltic States are strongly opposed to the removal of U.S. nuclear weapons from Europe. If states currently hosting these weapons insist on removal from their territory, some have indicated the Baltic States may be willing to host them, especially with thousands of Russian weapons across their borders. And, understandably, they are all deeply concerned about what U.S.-Russia and NATO-Russia missile defense cooperation could mean for their defense. During a recent visit to these nations, we repeatedly heard what President Reagan’s legacy means to the people and leaders there. One prominent Baltic leader urged the United States to locate “Reagan Centers” in each country, not only to cement the 40th President’s legacy, but to provide an understanding of the political and economic policies that have helped create freedom and prosperity in the United States. In this centennial anniversary of Reagan’s birth, we agree and believe that American leaders, both inside and outside of government, should work together to make such centers a reality. Perhaps nowhere on Earth can peoples be found who are more committed to freedom than in Georgia, the Baltic States, and the Ukraine. The U.S. should seize this moment with the 21st century’s “belt of freedom and democracy,” not only to support them, but to provide a clear example to the Russian people who, with the right policies and leaders, could enjoy the same opportunities.
The Border isn’t “More Secure Than Ever”
May 30, 2011 Memorial Day is a time for reflecting on the sacrifices made by brave American servicemen in wars past and present. We remember the heroes of Saratoga, Gettysburg, the Marne, Normandy, Inchon, KheSanh, Desert Storm, and other battles waged to defend freedom and human rights. We also pay tribute to those Americans who have spent the past decade on the front lines of the War on Terror in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the U.S. military personnel who are now supporting NATO operations in Libya. Sixty-six years after the Allies secured victory in Europe, it is remarkable how much reliance there is on American forces. U.S. troops are currently protecting 48 million South Koreans from the volatile dictatorship that sits across the DMZ (as they have been since the early 1950s). They are deterring Chinese adventurism throughout East Asia. They are curbing maritime piracy in East Africa. They are maintaining a tenuous peace in the Balkans. They are helping our Latin America allies combat violent drug lords. They are tracking down terrorists in Pakistan, where a team of Navy SEALS recently killed the world’s most wanted man, Osama bin Laden. And, of course, they are fighting jihadists and radical militias in Afghanistan and Iraq while trying to safeguard their fragile democratic achievements. For these efforts, American servicemen deserve the gratitude of freedom-loving peoples everywhere. Beyond their contributions to international security, U.S. troops also play a leading role in humanitarian relief missions across the globe. Indeed, whenever a major natural disaster creates a humanitarian crisis overseas, you can safely bet that American forces will be arriving on the scene in short order to help with
recovery. Earlier this year, they swiftly responded to the earthquake and tsunami that rocked Japan. At the beginning of 2010, they moved quickly to rescue and aid victims of the earthquake that devastated Haiti. They also rescued and aided Pakistani flood victims last summer, just as they assisted Pakistani earthquake victims in 2008 and Asian tsunami victims a few years before that. America’s status as the preeminent superpower has delivered enormous humanitarian benefits to countries all over the planet. We are the most benevolent and generous superpower in history, a superpower that has promoted democracy, human rights, free markets, and economic growth throughout the world. Over the long haul, this commitment not only serves a moral purpose, but a political purpose as well. We will need to preserve our global military presence. The security challenges we face are manifold. China is rising and flexing its muscles. North Korea is proliferating deadly weapons and threatening its neighbors. A resurgent Russia is menacing the young democracies of Eastern Europe and the Baltics. Islamic terrorists continue to wreak havoc in the Middle East and beyond. Drug-related violence has exploded in many parts of Latin America. We don’t know exactly how these challenges will be resolved. But we do know that America’s brave men and women in uniform will continue to be a bulwark of freedom and democracy. On this holiday weekend, let us take the opportunity to express our profound appreciation for all that they do. Sen. Jon Kyl is the Senate Republican Whip and serves on the Senate Finance and Judiciary committees. Visit his website at www. kyl.senate.gov or his YouTube channel at www. youtube.com/senjonkyl.
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r Sarabjit Singh is an Indian National who was falsely convicted and sentenced to death by a court in Pakistan in 1991 for his alleged involvement in terrorists attacks in Pakistan.He has been in solitary confinement for over 19 years in a small cramp cell without insufficient space for him to stand upright. Mr Sarabjit Singh’s Sister Mrs Dalbir Kaur has campaigned tirelessly on behalf of her brother since his arrest and continues to do so to date. Until the recent intervention of a human rights group from Canada, Mr Sarabjit Singh remained shackled in his cell.Mr Sarabjit Singh has maintained his innocence from the outset. He continues to maintain he is farmer from a village nearAmritsar in the Punjab, married with two daughters both of whom were toddlers at the time of his arrest. Mr Singh does not have the benefit of a legal team in India. His current lawyer in Pakistan is Mr Awais Sheikh who is a human rights lawyer.The original mercy peition was filed by by the previous lawyer and was rejected by president Pervaiz Musharaf on the grounds it was out of the statutory limitation period. Mr Sheikh has filed a fresh petition with the President Asif Ali Zardari , immediately after review petition was dismissed in Supreme Court following the failure of the previous lawyer to attend the hearing.The mercy petition lodged by Mr Sheikh is currently waiting to be determined by President Asif Ali Zardari. A letter written by Sarabjit Singh praying for mercy ( handed over to Mr Sheikh at his recent meeting with Mr Sarabjit Singh in Jail) has been annexed to the mercy petition together with the letter from his sister Mrs continued to passionately defend and highlight Mr Singh’s Dalvir Kaur in support of the mercy petition. Mr Sheikh has plight in the media. Mr Sheikh has waived his legal fee.
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Find out more about Sarabjit at: http://freesarabjitsingh.com/ http:// britishpakistanichristian.blogspot. com/2010/12/free-sarabjit-singh. htmlWe need your support:Fill the Petition online @ http://www. thepetitionsite.com/1/free-sarabjitsingh/ • Call on the Indian Authorities to intervene: [email protected]. [email protected] ,and jsams@ mea.gov.in • Appeal to Mr Asif Ali Zardari, President of Pakistan, Pakistan Secretariat Islamabad Pakistan. Fax number: 00 92 51 9221422 / 2282741• E-mail Mr Rehman Malik Advisor/Minister for Interior at: minister.interior@gmail. com ministerinterior@mobilink. blackberry.com, ministry.interior@ gmail.com, interior.complaintcell@ gmail.com or at: Fax: +92-519202624 • Please link to www. freesarabjitsingh.com on your social network page. • Copy and paste link to www.freesarabjitsingh.com to family, friends, and colleagues. • Follow the action recommended by amnesty International For further information please refer to the Amnesty International website Ref:http:// www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ ASA33/005/2009/en
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The Map and Gap In American Education
As Muslims we are taught that the Almighty created the human being to represent the best of his creation and let it be known that the perfection for life is already in him.
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he habit of making plans to educate our young can be a habit of strength or of weakness. Therefore, lesson plans in the classrooms of American education are to always be made with much caution and with great concern. And remember, habit is either the best of servants, or the worst of masters. Habits are to the soul what the veins and arteries are to the blood – the courses in which it moves. The whole objective of education is or should be to develop the habit of developing the mind to be productive and independent of poor influences and regressive thought. The mind should be able to pass judgment on events as they arise and then make constructive positive decisions. We must strive to encourage and educate everyone to work as a wholesome society by being in harmony with nature. The secret of true Godly education is in respecting each and every pupil in terms of interest, needs, and ability. Once we find the way for keeping a child’s spirit easy, active, and free, and then at the same time restrain him from the many things negative that he has a mind to. Therefore, the poorest education that teaches self control is better than the best education that neglects it. It is nice to be important but more important to be nice. We must stop believing that education is pumped in and then pumped out. Its original
forms were inherited at birth. In the Holy Qur’an, Surah 2, Ayah 268-269, reads “… And God cares for all, and He knows all things. He grants wisdom to whom He pleases; and he to whom wisdom is granted received indeed a benefit overflowing. But none will grasp the message but men of understanding.” Surah 35, Ayat 28 of the Qur’an reads: “From among His servants, it is the learned that fear the Creator the most Merciful and Forgiving.” This allows us to clearly see that the “map” is established by The Creator and the “gap” is established by men who follow the road of error and illusion. Qur’an Surah 55, Ayat 104 reads: (The Most Gracious says: It is He who has taught Qur’an. He has created man; He has taught him speech (and intelligence).” In the Holy Qur’an we read in Surah 96, Ayat 1-5: “Proclaim! (Or Read!) in the name of your Lord and Cherisher, Who created – created man out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood: Proclaim and your Lord is most Bountiful, He taught man that which he knew not.” As Muslims we are taught that the Almighty created the human being to represent the best of his creation and let it be known that the perfection for life is already in him. Man (Woman included) only need to practice proper worship in order for it to be released. Throughout the world “The Map” is needed to make sure the best we can be as a people is right before our eyes. That “Map” is the book called The Holy Qur’an. In this book is the method for disciplining the child or the young. It is through family life that children are to be trained. We say that charity begins at home and then spreads abroad. And it is with proper worship and proper education that man is
For comments or concerns, contact: Habibullah Saleem at [email protected] www.futureimpact.weebly.com
By Habibullah Saleem
able to sufficiently stand upright rather than fall regressively. When we are correct we will not ask if a man has been through college; instead we will ask if college has been through him or embedded in him the need to be wholesomely nourished and cultivated. When properly educated we can be recognized as a walking university, just as Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) was and is referred to as a walking Qur’an. It was the Angel Jabril who visited the Prophet early and instructed him to “read in the Name of thy Lord.” Here again we see that the Creator is the Establisher of the “Map”, and man is the establisher of the Gap in American education. Early education and instruction based in obedience to Allah (God) will best serve
and become effectual.” Today, we have learned that proper education does not consist in mastering language, but is found in that moral training which extends beyond the school room to the playground and the streets. It is urgent that we remember that properly educated, our young women play a major role in educating our young men. It is also urgent that we remember that education does not commence with the alphabet; it begins with a mother’s look, with a father’s nod of approbation or a sign of reproof; with a sister’s gentle pressure of the hands, or a brother’s noble act of forbearance; with handfuls of flowers in green dells, on hills, and daisy meadows; with birds’ nests admired but not touched; with creeping ants, and almost imperceptible emits; with humming bees and glass beehives; with pleasant walks in shady lanes, and with thoughts directed in sweet and kindly tones and words to nature, to beauty, to acts of benevolence to deeds of virtue, and to the source of all good. It’s called the “Map” to true education as established by Almighty Allah. It’s called the natural preservation of the soul by simply educating it to remain merrily and emotionally sound.
to keep us out of error. For it is true man was put here to do great works, but his works can never be greater than that of Allah. Without proper faith man is at loss. Man can work upon marble, but it will perish. If he works on brass, time will affect it. But if we work upon immortal minds, and imbrue them with principles, with the “just” fear of Allah and love of our fellow humans, we engrave on these tables something that will brighten to all eternity. It was a wise man who once said: “A college education shows a man how little other people know, while God’s education shows how little we all know. Just in the establishment of family through marriage we Another Clear view of find some of the chief means of American Education Call 602 educational grace. And if they 296-5639 or 973968-1289 are maintained, all the means ****** of grace are likely to prosper
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ASIA 13 TODAY
Biggest Bollywood Concert “Shaan Se” Coming to Phoenix in July
haan (Shantanu Mukherjee) is a renowned Indian playback singer and successful television host. He is not only an accomplished playback singer,but also has released very successful albums like Tanha Dil and Aksar. Apart from Hindi songs, Shaan has also given his voice to many hit Bengali, Telugu and Tamil film songs. He was the host for the popular show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa from 2000–2006 and also for Sa Re Ga Ma Pa L’il Champs. Shaan was also the host for another popular reality show called Star Voice of India and “Star Voice of India 2” . He was also the runner up of an extremely popular show called “Music Ka Maha Muqabla” in 2009-2010. In 2000 he won the MTV Asia Music Award for best solo album for his album Tanha Dil. Three years later Shaan launched his album Aksar which was again hugely successful. Apart from singing for his albums, Shaan today, has been the voice of almost all of Bollywood’s leading men starting from Shahid Kapur to Saif Ali Khan. He is widely appreciated for his excellent voice quality and singing songs from heart. He has thus established himself as one of the leading playback singers in Bollywood today. Shaan sang, composed the music and wrote the lyrics of his songs for both of his super hit albums Tanha Dil and Aksar. He has also composed music for many TV serials and has won the Best TV music director award. Shaan has also given his voice to many hit Bengali,Telugu and Tamil film songs.Popular songs by Shaan include hits like “Musu Musu” and “Wo Pehli Baar” from Pyaar Mein Kabhi Kabhi ; “Tune
Mujhe Pehchaana Nahin” from Raju Chacha ; “Nikamma Kiya Is Dil Ne” from Kyaa Dil Ne Kahaa ; “O Re Kanchi” from Asoka ; “Yeh Hawein” from Bas Itna Sa Khwaab Hai ; “Koi Kahe Kehta Rahe” and “Woh Ladki Hai Kahan” from Dil Chahta Hai ; “O Humdum Suniyo Re” from Saathiya ; “Subha Ho Gayi Mamu” from Munna Bhai M.B.B.S ; “Suno Na” and “Tera Muskurana” from Jhankaar Beats ; “It’s The Time To Disco” and “Kuch To Hua Hai” from Kal Ho Na Ho ; “En Panchhiyon” from Koi Mil Gaya ; “Dus Bahane” from Dus ; “Shikdum” from Dhoom ;
“Main Aisa Kyun Hoon” from Lakshya ; “Ladki Kyun” from Hum Tum ; “My Dil Goes Mmmm” from Salaam Namaste ; “Where’s The Party Tonight” and “Rock And Roll Soniye” from Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna ; “Chori Chori Chhora Chhori” from Masti (2004 film) ; “Main Hoon Don” from Don - The Chase Begins Again ; “Hey Shona” from Ta Ra Rum Pum ; “Do U Wanna Partner” and “You’re My Love” from Partner ; “Insha Allah” and “Welcome” from Welcome ; “Bum Bum Bole” from Taare Zameen Par ; “Aao milo chalo” from Jab We Met ; “Behti Hawa Sa Tha Woh” from 3 Idiots and the very popular songs “Chand Sifarish” from the movie Fanaa and “Jab se tere naina” from the movie Saawariya. His song “Chand Sifarish” from the movie Fanaa (2006) and “Jab se Tere Naina” from Saawariya won the Filmfare Best Male Playback Award and the Zee Cine Award Best Playback Singer - Male apart from receiving several other nominations. In 2000 he won the MTV Asia Music Award for best solo album for his album Tanha Dil. Shaan won Best TV Music Director award, for creating the music of the Zee TV show, Lipstick. “Shaan Se”, the Biggest Bollywood concert of the year in Phoenix is brought to you by Mumbai Beats (Sneha/Kiran Dhole 480-726-9229), Valley Dreams (Kamaljeet Sachdeva (480)302-0300, Varinderpal Singh (602)790-6576), Aziz/Neha Mallik (623)451-9041 and Prakash Deshmukh (602)4820672. The concert is scheduled at Ikeda Theater in Mesa Arts Center on July 8, 2011.
ASIA 14 TODAY
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MEET Lilly G ~ A VISIONARY AND INNOVATOR WHOSE UNIQUE PHILOSOPHIES WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE EVEN IN YOUR LIFE. THE VOICE for THE People ~ to the World
Thinking… Be~ing Human and Feeling it from within...that’s REAL
Macho goes Mad with SEAL TEAM 6
Written by a Chickasaw Nation Indian name withheld just like Seal Team 6
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“Geronimo, Geronimo, Geronimo…E.K.I.A.” -Cultural Hit man for Seal Team 6
he last four letters of seal team six Trigger-mans now famous quote says it all. The military had just successfully E-nemy K-illed I-n A-ction “UBL” Usama Bin laden. The most hated and hunted man in world history. Code name Geronimo. So of course the very first words that will become as famous as Neil Armstrong’s moon landing statement… “One small step for man, (static, static) one giant leap for mankind.” Technical RF static interrupted Armstrong’s historical quote on that day right in the middle of the statement, it was almost lost and never heard technically as it was transmitted from the moon. “Geronimo, Geronimo, Geronimo” are the first words of human static recognizing and describing the worlds most hated and hunted man as he is killed on video transmitted half way around the world back to the C.I.A home theater bunker. All that was missing was the popcorn. As it has a high ticket price of $ 2 trillion paperless dollars spent so far in this dog fight of cultures. The macho gone mad military trained person that came up with that “CODE WORD” needs to take a look at the military battle history concerning Wounded Knee , Big Sandy or even Custer’s last and many other well documented military terror operations against the indigenous people. “Crazy Horse” at 15 was used as a single decoy on horseback to lead a large band U.S. Calvary terrorist? into a canyon ambush. The name Crazy Horse was real and well earned thru one of his early life experiences. Unlike “Top Guns” Maverick, Snowman, or Goose. Also note that the military uses spirit guide names such as Black Hawk or Chinook and APACHE to describe their fierce fighting helicopters. Backing up those great modern warriors of Seal team 6. They use the same tactics as Geronimo did. Hit fast hard and quick usually from high ground or above. Central Intelligence ?? Agency scored zero intelligence by selecting the code name: Geronimo. The person that thought of that code word must have been schooled on the dark side of the moon. We just made one giant leap backwards regarding culture respect. In American Indian culture there are no words to describe art or spirituality, as they were both woven into the daily lives of the indigenous people. From the tools and weapons to the intricate clothes their spirituality was always present. It’s always the art and culture that is the last to be considered, the first to be cut from the budget and the biggest thing they scream about when it not right. The art and culture is the communication tool to other arts and cultures. The spirit lines woven into an Indian rug to be passed down for generations. Not a small micro thread of digital data, listened to filed then lost in translation. Just as the powers of the satellite Gods can transmit the images from a Villa’s bedroom in Pakistan as CODE NAME: GERONIMO watches American porno on a 12 inch B&W television with no internet or telephone connection. Evading the satellite gods and the soul -less drone birds view back to a
protected Bunker at CIA headquarters stacked tot the heavens with high tech with no touch technology. Code name: “Geronimo” must be hiding on the dark side of the moon. Bin laden off the path evading all this high tech gear they used to track him. It’s a real “Broken Arrow” event. Bin laden had been a friendly go between operative with the CIA during the Russian occupation in the Afghan Rocks on that rocky slope that taxpayers financed thru Texas congressman “Charlie Wilson’s War”. One little fact that most Americans don’t know is that the United States Congress approved financing for the “friendly” al Qaeda Taliban to shoot down Russian helicopters with missiles provided by green back cash stuffed in C.I.A. suitcases dropped or delivered by Blackhawk’s. It definitely provides drama that X-Box 360 cant match. Although I bet most of seal team six members played video games as youth losing all consciousness of what it means to kill. Where as the American Indian always respected life even as they killed it for food or when defending themselves on their homelands against known terrorist. American high tech has lost its touch with human reality and important history. E.K.I.A. apparently has a double meaning, hopefully the asleep at the wheel Americans might wake up and see the on coming rush of 450 years of hatred. Endlessly K-illing I-ndian A-mericans in their indigenous lands. The American Indian has been fighting terrorism since 1492...it took the white man terrorist about 450 years to gear up and E.K.I.A. an entire culture. Its still going on today as SEAL TEAM 6 so perfectly echo’s with an out of touch code word. How many others souls were killed with that statement to continue on in history. No “Code Talkers” interpretation needed. How soon the asleep at the wheel American macho-ism forgets that the very language that Geronimo spoke Apache-Navaho, is the language of the top secret Navaho Code Talkers that helped save many seal team 6 types back in WW2 fighting the Japanese. The very language that saved the grandfathers of Seal Team Six is not respected by the obvious factual historical record of today. Seal Team 6 members are now hero’s of the unknown EGO and where it can take you. The subliminal language that is now being printed and repeated throughout the worlds press Geronimo, Geronimo, Geronimo E.K.I.A. is only mental abuse on a world scale inflicted on the American Indian culture and its youth. Geronimo is regarded as the great American Indian who fought off terrorism as the last man standing of an indigenous people. Representing an entire culture The legendary Chiricahua Apache was able to evade the European terrorist by utilizing mother earths beautiful lands now known as the Chiricahua National Monument located in south east Arizona. If you travel there you will see and experience the Shangri -la of hiding places that Geronimo experienced. A truly magical place. Geronimo had his
own Seal Team 6 types that left no footprints as they followed the path of the arrow. Always protected by the power of truth with the sting of the arrow for those that did not know the truth of justice just as Seal Team 6 does. They never caught Geronimo. He turned himself in after an agreement had been made with the U.S. Government and its military. Those agreements were lies that tricked Geronimo into giving up. He was imprisoned at Fort Bowie but later escaped. Later again imprisoned and sold out by corporate wild west shows providing “more money than I ever owned” were Geronimo’s words. One popular item he sold was autographed arrows. Those arrows and its message living on longer than the bullets that killed top secret code name: Geronimo. Code name Geronimo was later buried at sea with many facts lost in translation thru the human static of religious ego. Seal team 6 did what it does best…just like Geronimo. The Navy should give the Seal Team some Hollywood style Military flare why not call them …SEAL TEAM GERONIMO and use the code name: 666 for Bin laden. Most of the media hype back in the later 1800’s regarding Geronimo was the result of pulp fiction novels sensationalized by writers from the east coast New England states. Those pulp fiction novels are si milar to todays media reporting style. Not reporters on the battle field from Indian Nation Homelands, but only milquetoast reports from the military logs. Those logs only reporting the wrongs of the Apache and other tribes but never mentioning the U.S. military’s own radical violations against humanity. We should learn from that and how the Media-Ocre media continues that today. Those drive by reporters relying on what they are told not what they see. Its seems like we need LIE Detectors at most all press conferences today. Of course this entire Geronimo issue is considered not important enough on the larger scale of the killing event itself. I recognized cultural indifference immediately when I heard and felt those words like a knife. How would you feel if your culture or family name was used…why not Nixon, Nixon, Nixon for lying to his people…or WHORE-HAY BUSH , Jorge BUSH , Jorge BUSH for killing his people with lies or JACKSON, JACKSON, JACKSON for lying to THE indigenous American Indian people and forcing them to walk “The Trail of Tears”. Just to name a few other well known “Chiefs” that deserve such historical recognition, insert your own name as you see fit. Geronimo was not a Chief but a great Medicine Man and tactical warrior. He traveled in small bands just as Seal Team 6 does, prepared to fight their way home just like Seal Team 6 is trained. I say Hail to the Chiefs Cochise, Crazy Horse and Yotanka Totanka. ( alias Sitting Bull) What kind of ignorance generates that code word : Geronimo….a pure reflection of our educational system that has no mult-cultural SOUL. The very education system that is leaving an entire native culture behind not just one child. And now they grind glass into that wound in order to learn the truth. No water boarding
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• June 2011
needed. The truth follows the flight of the arrow. The CIA 10 days later after killing code name: Geronimo revised the factual historical data and debriefing notes as had been reported by the world press. They now say that “G” was a waypoint describing the 3rd floor upstairs bedroom location. Indicating that the triggerman had reached waypoint “G” or location Geronimo on the compound property. That’s a lot of Totanka (buffalo) dung they just tracked into the White House press room with that revision and rewrite of history. Anyone knows that the military has strict adherence to the military radio coded alphabet…Alpha Bravo Charlie Delta Echo Foxtrot Golf ..G is golf not Geronimo…..remember to wear your knee high deer skin “snow job leggings” at the big white TEE-PEE in Washington. Poetic justice knows no boundaries in past or present history. The very Government that called Geronimo a terrorist 150 years ago and now thru code word associations hypocritically has repeated itself. In 1937 the U.S government designated a national monument for the Chiricahua Indians. Cochise, Geronimo’s and many other great warriors tribe. Those great warriors are remembered just as the unknown warriors of Seal Team 6 will be. Unknown but known. Always remembered but soon forgotten. The Apache warriors that left no footprints are regarded as cultural hero’s. I wonder how Seal team 6 would perform infiltrating Cochise’s Stronghold. Perhaps the Seal teams should go to life college and not cubicle college, where the historical information is controlled or deleted. Please don’t delete these facts from your mind as its hard drive crashes. Remember that you walk on the DNA of your ancestors. “When we are gone there will be a great hole where we once stood. And in this emptiness will echo again and again …Apache” So tread lightly on your path…leave no footprints just as Geronimo…no code name needed. - writers identity withheld
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ASIA 17 TODAY
Soul-Wisdom vs. …EGO
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go lives SOULless… but we feed it to its obesity into a Homeless state of Mind ! We are all Homeless on this Planet if we have not lived through Our SOUL …We live & love from the Shoulders up or waste down. I have said that in so many articles & I see the reflection Daily in this Country reflecting on the Importance of my message in watching Global news I observe the World is Homeless. We are still going in the WRONG direction ... we don’t listen to Our Guidance of ANSWERS from Within….& connect to each others Soul as we should. Solving each others PROBLEMS ..in having the Know how to listen the RIGHT way to each other & communicate in honoring EACH Other as BE~ING’s. Ideas are easier developed in ENHANCING each other in Togedderness…Instead of destroying the Planet in Ego & Ignorance … E~G~O: as in: “Easing God Out “! Governments, Religions & Cultures through out this Planet say its MY GOD not Yours …so we pay a high price to own Our OWN GOD for our self . Even when ” killing” each other . IN THE NAME OF GOD. We also Cheer & applaud for…killing but we walk overwhelmed & in silence around a so called HOMEless …for a Moment it scratches the surface of our Ego .. so we reach some times into our wallets of $..but not the Wallet of OUR SOUL....because again we are only using Our resources we are taught …to follow blindly. We are afraid to think beyond and deeper. We don’t need Schools ,as we are born with Education, also called EARTH WISDOM ..but again we are not allowed to use it to live by …instead we treat OUR Earth like a Football …in kicking it around in between EGO & Indigenous REAL Earth people ..like Me …but the earth has a surprise for us …whipping us w Tornado’s & throwing up w Tsunamis & Hurricanes it shakes us w EARTHquakes …to kick US into its OWN TOUCHDOWN !! So manKIND move over… HUmanKIND is coming & is ready to DUEL Man… Guru G I am PRO EARTH. NAMASTE we are the EARTH… The Voice for The PEOPLE Lilly G [email protected] We like YOUR input & suggestions # 480-464-6242 Lilly G
The Hourglass
ey guys! How are you this month? Good! I have a story that I wrote to show you. I hope you like it; it’s called The Hourglass. The evening had a welcoming, calm, and cool feeling as Mya and Valenzio enjoyed their presence and love for each other on Mars. The feeling of everything surrounding them was perfect; they both loved the atmosphere of where they were at that moment. Valenzio was an extremely handsome god. He was five foot ten inches; he had deep hazel eyes that complimented his beautiful tan skin. He had short, curly, black hair that brought out his gorgeous eyes, a bright, flashy smile, and his eyelashes were as long as his stream of love for Mya. He was also very muscular and strong, particularly the strongest god on Mars. Valenzio was loyal and cared for everyone. He was very optimistic, and always thought of everyone before himself. He had a husky voice, or never stuttered, and had a wonderful sense of humor. Valenzio also
had a supernatural power to sense the whereabouts of the person he was thinking about at that very moment. On the other hand, Zenthoro was shorter than average, had ghostly white skin, and milk chocolate eyes. He also had long straight hair, owned a devious smile, that is, whenever he did smile, and had short stubby eyelashes. The blood that flowed through his veins was as cold as ice. He had no compassion for anybody and he was always known as the god of negativity. His voice was very loud, like he talked into and bullhorn whenever he spoke, almost like he was doing it on purpose. He had an unusual sarcastic tone and always seemed to be frustrated. Zenthoro did not have a super natural power. Valenzio and Zenthoro were both in love with the same girl even though Mya was clearly in love with Valenzio and despised Mya. They kept going back and forth with insults, like riding on a seesaw with their affection for Mya. Oddly, it always seemed to land
on Valenzio’s side. Since Mya loved Valenzio, Zenthoro plotted to kill him and get to her since he just did not understand that Mya despised him. Little did he know, Mya’s heart would be broken and she would hate him even more than she already did. Zenthoro kidnapped Mya, but had not a clue about his supernatural power. Valenzio sensed right away that something was wrong. Zenthoro trapped Mya in the core of Mars where not everyone could get into and Valenzio used his power to sense where Mya was and went to find her. Zenthoro obviously used it as a trap, and used Mya as bait. That way, he could corner Valenzio and destroy him to have Mya to himself. As soon as Valenzio found Mya stuck in the core of Mars, he grabbed the magic hourglass that was always prepared to be used in times of trouble. He easily trapped Zenthoro in it, and drowned him in sand. After thinking of ways to keep him from escaping, he decided to bury the hourglass
in the iron near the surface of the cold, red planet. Over many years, Zenthoro and his burial crossed Valenzio’s mind less and less until he completely forgot about it. Him and the hourglass continued to rot in the iron until one day an asteroid crashed down on the opposite side of the planet of where Zenthoro was buried. It pushed the hourglass upwards and broke it, making the form of the hourglass rise to the surface. Due to the foolishness of Zenthoro’s selfish and conceited affection towards Mya, what we see today is a crater seventeen kilometers wide and five hundred meters below in the shape of an hourglass. So, did you like it? I hope you did! Thanks for reading it and have a great June and a safe and an amazing summer! - Sanam Mallik
ASIA 18 TODAY
• June 2011
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• June 2011
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Reflections of the meeting organised by Arizona Business Owners Association, which held under the leadership of Shahid Haneef at Salt and Pepper Restaurant on May 24.
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• June 2011
ASIA 23 TODAY
Zindagi Trust fundraiser a big success in Arizona
hehzad Roy and Bushra Ansari were in Phoenix Arizona to raise money for the Zindagi Trust, a charitable organization focusing on government school reforms in Pakistan. The event was held on Friday, May 20th at the Hyatt Regency Resort. Over 250 community members attended this great charity gala event. Dr Taqi Azam served as a Master of Ceremony. He welcomed the guests and thanked them for their attendance. Dr. Azam Khan, who was instrumental in bringing the charity to Arizona, appreciated Shehzad Roy for his great efforts in improving the current government school system in Pakistan. Tauheed Ashraf, who is the Director of Zindagi Trust USA, gave an overview of the organization in USA with the financial data and operations of chapters in various cities in US. He announced the appointment of Dr. Azam Khan to be the head of the Zindagi Trust in Arizona. Bushra Ansari came to the stage and requested the audience to reach out and open their hearts to
this noble cause. She entertained the guests with her humor from her well known drama serial. Her performance also included golden era Noor Jehan’s najm “Mujh se Pehli Se Mohabbat” and a background song “Kuch Dil Ne Kaha” from her serial of the same name. Shehzad Roy, who founded Zindagi Trust, gave a background and an overview of the Trust. It started with “I-am-paid-to-learn” School programs across Pakistan where working children were paid to go to schools. He talked about the deteriorating standard of education in the governmental schools. The 80% of the children in Pakistan go to the government schools. “People say that they feel sorry for the millions of children in Pakistan who are not going to schools, but I say I feel pity for the millions of children who are going to government schools in Pakistan” Shehzad said. “The children coming out of these schools do not
have any thinking, cognitive or analytical skills,” he added. He talked about how the Zindagi Trust took the transfer of management of Fatima Jinnah Girls Secondary School in Karachi and transformed it into a model and a safe institution where children are prospering academically. Dr Taqi Azam auctioned off 2 cricket bats and balls signed by the Pakistani Cricket team members. A tennis racket signed by Aisamul Haque was also auctioned. The live auction generated thousands of dollars for the Zindagi Trust. Shehzad Roy also entertained the guests with his collection of pop songs including the Dhamal “Dama Dam Mast Qalander. The show ended with a word of gratitude and thanks from Dr. Azam Khan. The event raised over $47,000 with more donations still coming in. The charity gala would not have been possible without the hard work of the planning committee that included Afshan Khan, Parveen Bhuvad, Saba Farooqi and Zarina Jaffer.
ASIA 24 TODAY
BOOKS & BEYOND
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ART & LITERATURE www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
The Social Space of Language: Vernacular Culture in British Colonial Punjab
his rich cultural history set in Punjab examines a little-studied body of popular literature to illustrate both the durability of a vernacular literary tradition and the limits of colonial dominance in British India. Farina Mir asks how qisse, a vibrant genre of epics and romances, flourished in colonial Punjab despite British efforts to marginalize the Punjabi language. She explores topics including Punjabi linguistic practices, print and performance, and the symbolic content of qisse. She finds that although the British denied Punjabi language and literature almost all forms of state patronage, the resilience of this popular genre came from its old but dynamic corpus of stories, their representations of place, and the moral sensibility that suffused them. Her multidisciplinary study reframes inquiry into cultural formations in late-colonial north India away from a focus on religious communal identities and nationalist politics and toward a widespread, ecumenical, and place-centered poet-
ics of belonging in the region. Reviews: “This is a pioneering study. Mir draws upon largely unfamiliar material and suggests new approaches to religio-cultural questions of great importance to South Asianists across a wide disciplinary spectrum.”—Christopher Shackle, SOAS, University of London “Mir makes creative use of archival and folkloric material to tell the history of a composite, modern, and gendered Punjabi self in colonial India that was sadly lost in the welter of partition politics and violence. The story of the legendary lovers Heer and Ranjha haunts her narrative like an artistic lament about a lost Punjabi self without in any way compromising the academic quality of her research and the rigor of her exposition. A very significant contribution to South Asian history.”—Dipesh Chakrabarty, The University of Chicago “Farina Mir has given us an outstanding work of literary and cultural
history. She skillfully unravels the many versions of the famous folk-tale about Hir and Ranjha to illuminate gender, class and community relations in Punjab. This book will compel historians to rethink the links between language, religion and power and to reconsider the contingencies of union and partition in late colonial India.”—Sugata Bose, author of A Hundred Horizons “Mir’s archival work covers and foregrounds the breadth of the storytelling or qissa tradition, great and little, high and low, Sufi, Sikh and Hindu, showing its wide dissemination. Mir’s findings are of immense significance, given the turbulent history of the region in post-independence India and the political turmoil today, particularly on the Pakistani side of the border. Panjabi seldom finds this kind of focus in cultural history.”—Vasudha Dalmia, University of California, Berkeley (Farina Mir ([email protected]) is Associate Professor of History at the University of Michigan)
by Farina Mir Permanent Black, Ranikhet, 2010 ISBN-817824307-5 pp-277, price Rs 695
PUNJAB HONOURS EMINENT PUNJABI FILM PERSONALITIES
he Punjab Government recognized the role of BolT lywood & Entertainment in-
dustry in promotion of Punjabi language, culture & heritage on global shores by honoring the celebrities in a glittering ceremony held at Mumbai last evening. Mr Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Education and Language Minister, Punjab on behalf of Punjab government felicitated galaxy of film stars producers and other personalities of entertainment industry for their role in promoting Punjabi language and culture. Prominent amongst those honored on the occasion included Yash Chopra, Prem Chopra, Om Puri, Poonam Dhillon, Gul Panag, Manmohan Singh, Jaspinder Narula, Sonu Sood, Neeru Bajwa, Divya Dutta, Bhupinder-Mitali and Navneet Nishan. Presiding over the 29th All India Literary & Cultural program Virsa-2011 organized by Punjab Language Department, Mr. Sekhwan announced the setting up of a Punjabi Academy to promote Punjabi in films, television & radio and animation programs with active participation of stalwarts of Media Entertainment industry. He said that Punjab government was requesting Maharashtra government to allot suitable piece of land at Mumbai or Navi Mum-
bai for this purpose. Mr Sekhwan said that role of Punjabis in promoting Punjabi language through films and entertainment industry could not be ignored as Punjabis after partition have a sterling role in this. He said that right from Kapur family, Chopra family and Anands, bollywood owes its existence to Punjabis. The Education Minister pointed out that the biggest challenge for us was to involve our young generation in promotion of Punjabi language and culture and expressed confidence that our joint and concerted efforts would do wonders in this direction. Lauding the role of writers and journalists settled outside Punjab in promotion of Punjabi language and culture, Mr. Sekhwan assured to frame a special policy for publication of their works so that their writings could get wide readership. Cautioning against sometimes wrong and non serious depiction of Punjabi language and character, Mr. Sekhwan appealed the representatives of Media entertainment Industry to be very careful on this front as even inadvertent action attracts the public anger thereby posing a serious threat to the social fabric of any region. Congratulating the State Language department for or-
ganizing such an impressive function at a short notice, the Minister said that he was moved by the overwhelming response of the media entertainment industry. He also appealed the Punjabis settled in any part of the country to ensure the regular visits of their younger generation so that they can themselves have feel of their roots, language and culture. The minister also appreciated the role of Mumbaikars’ Mr Gurinder Singh Bawa & Mr Swaran Salaria and Major Gulshan Sharma, Chairman, ITFT Education Group, Chandigarh for making this initiative a grand success. Earlier, Mrs. Balbir Kaur, Director, Languages Department welcomed the august gathering and gave a brief account of the efforts of the department in promotion of
Punjabi along with other languages. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Tarlochan Singh, Former MP and former Chairman, National Minority Commission shared his experiences and made valuable suggestions for the promotion of Punjabi Language, Culture and heritage. Dr. Roshan Sunkaria, Secretary Higher Education and Language and Mr. Mahender Singh Khari, President NRI Affairs-IPCSI, UK also spoke on the occasion. On this occasion, Sufi Singer Dr. Mamta Joshi regaled the audience with her unique presentation of Sufi singing and renowned Punjabi comedians Gurpreet Ghuggi and Rana Ranbir’s humorous nodes proved to be icing on the cake. Stage was conducted by Dr Satish Verma. On this occasion, 85 emi-
nent personalities included Prikshit Sahni, Raza Murad, Viru Devgan, Uttam Singh, Ajit Singh Deol, Buta Singh Shad, Ravinder Peepat, Gurdas Mann, Harmeet Singh, Rama Vij, Divya Dutta, Bhumika Chawla, Surveen Chawla, Bhupinder Siyan, Rakesh Bedi, Amrik Gill, Jaidev Kumar, Subhash Sehgal, Mohan Baggar, Raman Kumar, Rana Jang Bahadur, Naresh Malhotra, Guddu Dhanoa, Hansraj Hans, Sonu Sood, Neeru Bajwa, Deep Dhillion, Daljit Kaur, Deepak SethRameshwari, Azim Parker, Arun Bakhshi Om Kar Bhakhri, Amarinder Gill, Gurpreet Ghughi, Ranvijay , Vikram Ghumman, Navneet Singh, Kawaljit Singh Sandhu, Kulwant Singh Kohli, Charanjit Singh Sapra, Dr. Ajit Singh, Dr. P.S.Pasricha, Dr. Bhpinder Singh Minhas, Major Kuldeep Kaushal and Ms. Awantika Sharma were honored by the Punjab government for their life time achievements as well as their selfless service for promotion of their mother tongue Punjabi besides rich culture and heritage of the Punjab. Besides this Late Sh. Mohinder Kapoor, Late Manohar Deepak, Late Anand Bakshi, Late Vivak Shook, Late Majnu, Late Manoj Punj, Late Suraj Saneem were awarded posthumously.
ART & LITERATURE www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
ASIA 25 TODAY
Book blames Indira for Congress’ decline Poet of the month Shiv Kumar Batalvi
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book on Congress has blamed former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi for the damage to its electoral base in Hindi heartland, particularly Uttar Pradesh, where Rahul Gandhi is now trying to rebuild the party ahead of the Assembly polls next year. “She (Gandhi) attempted to reach down to the bottom level and restructure the party from the top into an ‘oligarchy’ controlled with the help of her close aides. This led to the breakdown of the ‘machine’ character of Congress, which had been the strength of the party in some states. ...By the mid-1980s, considerable damage had occurred to the organisation and electoral base of the party from which it has not yet fully recovered. Her attempt to control the party led to absence of internal democracy leading to collapse of branches of the party in key states such as UP,” the fifth volume of the series ‘A Centenary History of the Indian National Congress’ said. The volume brought out by a group of editors, headed by senior party leader Pranab Mukherjee, to commemorate 125 years of the organisation narrates and analyses a wide variety of issues which affected the Congress party and in turn impinged on the national issues. In the preface to the book,
(1936–1973)
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Mukherjee noted that Congress desired the volume to be edited and contributed by experts in order to generate an “objective and scholarly perspective for the period under review and “not necessarily have a party perspective”. The views expressed by the authors in the volume, therefore do not reflect the views of the Congress party. It is not an official history of the Congress between 1964 and 1984, according to Mukherjee.
Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Manish Tiwari downplayed the issue saying that the views belong to individual writers and not Congress. “The book begins with two disclaimers that the views of the authors are not representatives of the views of Congress. If at all there is some author who has come to a conclusion which cannot be purported to be the conclusion of the party. We do not subscribe to those views,” Tiwari said.
“Indian People Smell like Rice & Curry”
May 10, 2011 ndian Americans have to deal with people who tell them they smell like rice and curry. Indian Americans have been asked if they know the Indian people who work at the gas station down the street. If Indian people would eat the cow they wouldn’t starve. Leena Ceraveeni’s debut novel, “The Hometown”, documents the racial experiences of an Indian girl born and raised in Indiana. Each chapter of “TheHometown” focuses on a different racial experience when 23-year-old Mala Thomas packs up her Acura Vigor and makes an impulsive move to Houston. In Houston, she doesn’t get questioned about being Indian. The South is very different from the Midwest and Mala can’t take the word “y’all” seriously. On her
The death of the sister she can’t remember, her love for ’80s rock, and her past racial experiences follow her everywhere she goes. About the Author: Leena Ceraveeni graduated from Indiana University. She lives in Texas. For more information, please contact her at leena.ceraveeni@ gmail.com. by Leena Ceraveeni
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career path, she lands a job in the energy industry and falls for work-obsessed Cyril, a Creole who works in her office building.
hiv Kumar ‘Batalvi’ (1936–1973) was a celebrated Punjabi poet, who was known for his romantic poetry, noted for its heightened passion, pathos, separation and lover’s agony. He became the youngest recipient of the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1967, given by Sahitya Akademi (India’s National Academy of Letters), for his epic verse play based on the ancient legend of Puran Bhagat, Loona (1965), now considered a masterpiece in modern Punjabi literature, and which also created a new genre, of modern Punjabi kissa. Leaving behind great poetry, he passed away in 1973 at the young age of 37 with liver cirrhosis.
BirhaRa - Separation People worship god. I worship this separation from you. It is worth Haj to a hundred Meccas, This separation from you. People say I am as brilliant as the sun, They say I am famous. What a fire it has lit in me, This separation from you. Behind me is my shadow, Ahead, is my darkness. I fear that it might leave me, This separation from you. No taint of the body is in it, Nor litter of the mind, All has been winnowed out, By this separation from you. When sorrow comes, bringing with it Loneliness and pain, I pull it close to me, This separation from you. Sometimes it colors my words Sometimes it weaves through my songs, It has taught me great deal, This separation from you. When sorrow, defeated, fell at my feet, Amazed at my fidelity, The world came out to see This separation from you. Love earned me fame. People flocked to praise me. It wept in my embrace, This separation from you. The world turned out to tell me, That I had been unwise. It sat me on a throne today This separation from you.
ASIA 26 TODAY
ENTERTAINMENT www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
Salman brings punch to trailer of Chillar Party
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fter finding that a planned trailer of the upcoming film ‘Chillar Party’ lacked a punch, Bollywood star Salman Khan took up a pen to write a spontaneous trailer script himself. He wrote an introduction of a trailer for the film that he is co-producing with UTV Spot Boys. Sources close to the actor said Salman loved the trailer but felt that it lacked an interesting punch. “That punch was a voice-over, introducing the characters in the film. So, he penned down the script impromptu and then dubbed it in his own voice and in his special style,” sources said. The film is releasing on July 8 tells a story of a gang of innocent yet feisty kids from Chandan Nagar called Encyclopedia, Jhanghia, Akram, Secondhand, Panauti, Silencer, Aflatoon and Shaolin. The film shows how two strangers, Fatka and Bheedu, enter their lives and how things revolve around their lives, making each other an inseparable part of the film. ‘Chillar Party’ is co-directed by Vikas Bahl and Nitesh Tiwari and music is done by Amit Trivedi.
A dabba full of hope… I
n Amole Gupte’s cinematic world, artists don’t ‘act’. Don’t get it wrong. Performers of course, portray their roles, but not with the burden of cinematic expectations. Amole’s brief to the actors? Be natural and go with the flow. The producer-director-actor believes in keeping it simple and taking inspiration from life.Stanley Ke Dabba also celebrates struggles and complexities of life that comes in the natural course, but inspires you to stay put and fight with determination. The film has a strong message, but a light pace, that entertains you and moves you at the same time. So has Kids Cinema finally arrived in India with Stanley Ka Dabba? Amole Gupte says,”Stanley Ka Dabba is not just a children’s movie. It is for a seven-year-old as well as for a 170-year-old. So even if you are an adult, you can watch it to refresh your childhood. The film would remind you of your school-time, as well as kids like Stanley you might have met during that time. Aapko apne baare mein sochna hai to apne baare mein sochiye, Stanley ke bare mein sochna hai to Stanley ke baare mein sochiye.” The director is clear about the message he wants to send across through the movie - the importance of education. And he has certainly succeeded in his attempt as the movie has been decalred tax-free now. He says, “Uniform is a great leveler. Had it not been there, the status issues would have cropped up in school itself. In the film also, because of the uniform, the pride of the kid is intact. This also underlines the importance of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan. A kid might be facing a lot of hardships in the life, but if he is getting education, the future is secure.” The film has been shot in a candid way. It picks up slices from life and serves it in a cool ‘dabba’, meant for a kid with good appetite. So what makes it different from a typical Bollywood flick? Unlike a lot of new-crop directors, who are largely inspired by World Cinema, Amole Gupte attributes his inspiration for shots and other technical aspects to the old cinema. “While I was in FTII (Film and Television Institute of India), I got to watch Sant Tukaram, the only film so far that has got the Golden Lion Award in Venice Festival. Nobody talks about that movie now. Filmmakers like V Shantaram, Gajanan Jagirdar, Bimal Roy, Ritwick Ghatak, all the geniuses made films, which were considered mainstream cinema at that time. I wonder why 20-30 years down the line we stopped making such kind of films. Why should we take inspiration from World Cinema, when we have such brilliant filmmakers at home?
Sonu Nigam
to judge Indian version of X Factor
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ony Entertainment Television today announced the launch of the Indian version of the singing reality show ‘X Factor’. Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali and playback singers Sonu Nigam and Shreya Ghoshal will judge the show. “I don’t know how to define X-factor. I feel they are those who can show their inner talent, has confidence and passion, can explore new things and fight failure. Amitabh Bachchan has X-factor, now how do I define his X-factor,” Bhansali said. “My consent to be a judge of ‘X Factor’ is proof enough of my faith in the format, teams involved and the Channel. Music in India has gone beyond the boundaries of film music. So for all those singers, bands and musicians who are trying to give music a new expression the show will give them a platform to showcase their talent,” Nigam said. The singing talent show, to be hosted by singer-actor Aditya Narayan, has been adapted from international show ‘The X Factor’. “The contestants not only have to audition before judges but in front of a live audience. The concert-like atmosphere will bring new dimension to their performances. It gives them an opportunity to prove they have the whole package - vocal ability, charisma and stage presence,” Shreya said. The auditions will be aired all the days of the week between May 29 till June 4 at 9pm, and the galas will start from June 10 with top 12 finalists, every Friday and Saturday at 9 pm. The channel has partnered with international company Fremantle Media, the license holders of the format, for the programme. “We are confident that the show will find India’s most talented performers,” Fremantle Media India managing director S K Raj Barua said.
ENTERTAINMENT www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
ASIA 27 TODAY
Rare moment:
Lata-Asha together
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lthough legendary filmmaker Kamal Amrohi’s eldest son, Shandar calls Bollywood actress Preity Zinta his ‘daughter’, the actress says no one has adopted her and threatened to take legal action against those writing stories in this regard. “For the final time, I would like to say no one has adopted me or written a will for me. I helpedShandar Amrohi in his time of need. He is a very nice man but no one can ever take the place of my father in my life. I am not off the street that I need someone else’s wealth,” Priety said on micro-blogging site Twitter. The legendary filmmaker’s three children - sons Shandar, Tazdar and daughter Rukhsar - have been locked in a fierce property battle. Also, Shandar had submitted an application to Khar Police station demanding arrest of his sister Rukhsar and her son Waseem for alleged theft and forgery of share certificates. Preity Zinta had then tweeted about the ‘delay’ in the registration of the FIR and had also accompanied Amrohi in her personal capacity at the police station. Thereafter the stories in media seemed to have annoyed her. “I will request journalists to not resort to write stories about someone else wanting to be my father. He is no more so please have some respect. Otherwise I will have no option but to resort to legal means. Journalists prefer gossip over facts and this is disgusting and unacceptable by me,” Preity Zinta said. The dimpled beauty also said she has a collection of completely ‘false articles’ and would put it together in a book with photos of the concerned journalists and call it -”a journalist hall of shame.”
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elody queen Lata Mangeshkar would be lending her voice for the title-track of the upcoming Hindi film “Maaee”, in which her younger sister and evergreen singer Asha Bhosale is playing a lead role. Confirming this, Asha said, “Didi has agreed to sing the title track. I am very happy.” The title track would be recorded soon, sources said, while the shooting is almost complete. The film is directed byMahesh Kodiyal, and stars Padmini Kolhapure, who plays Asha’s daughter in the film. The film’s story revolves around a woman -- Maaee -- who has been abandoned by son and is living with her daughter.
ASIA 28 TODAY
Calendar of Events www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
June 2011 Sun
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* Ashtabandha Prathista @ Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra
Mon
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Art avocation, this summer vacation
* Meditation/Scriptural Readings @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
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Enlightening Self Realization Seminar @ Indo-American Community Center
Wed
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Enlightening Self Realization Seminar @ Indo-American Community Center
Bhagavata Saptaham and Lectures by Sri Vaddiparti Padmakar
* Enlightening Self Realization Seminar @ Indo-American Community Center * Badrinath (Premier Show) @ Tempe Cinemas - Telugu Movie (Starts @ 7:30 PM)
* Ready @ Super Saver/Silver Cinemas Hindi Movie (Starts @ 6:30 PM)
Meditation/Scriptural Readings @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
Sat
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* Ram Parivar Sunday Puja @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
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Fri * ART Excel Course @ Suneela’s Residence * Bhagavata Saptaham and Lectures by Sri Vaddiparti Padmakar * Ashtabandha Prathista @ Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra * Ready @ Tempe Cinemas - Hindi Movie (Starts @ 9:30 PM)
* Mega Star Show -Malayalam: (Tharasamunyam 2011) @ Dobson High School * Maata Jaagran @ Hindu Temple of Arizona * Badrinath @ Tempe Cinemas - Telugu Movie (Starts @ 9:30 PM)
* Celebration of Dance 2001 @ Phoenix Theater * Ashtabandha Prathista @ Sri Venkata Krishna Kshetra * Saravam Siva Mayam Jagat A discourse on Siva @ Hindu Temple of Arizona * Ready @ Tempe Cinemas - Hindi Movie (Starts @ 9:30 PM)
Debi Makhsoospuri Live in Phoenix Badrinath @ Tempe Cinemas - Telugu Movie (Starts @ 9:30 PM)
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Art avocation, this summer vacation
Satyanarayan Puja @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
Hasya Hangama @ Indo-American Community Hall
Shri Jagannathji Puja @ Hindu Temple of Arizona Badrinath @ Super Saver/Silver Cinemas Telugu Movie (Starts @ 3:00 PM)
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* Sonu Nigam’s Live in concert * Meditation/Scriptural Readings @ Hindu Temple of Arizona * Temple 10th Anniversary Celebration @ Hindu Temple of Arizona * Balaji & Krishnaji Puja @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
Temple 10th Anniversary Celebration @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
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* Meditation/Scriptural Readings @ Hindu Temple of Arizona * Shivji Sunday Puja @ Hindu Temple of Arizona
Art avocation, this summer vacation
"Courtesy of www.azindia.com"
Bole So Nihal (A unique fusion of Film & Drama with english sub-titles)
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Hurry Mirch Spice of Creativity
s I thought about the various types of dining experiences available to us, this month my thoughts drifted to a specific type of experience that South Asians are very familiar with - “street foods.” What is so special about street foods? They are more than just eating on the streets of India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangaldesh, etc. because if that is all it was, anyone could do. But there are streets famous for their specialties such as ‘Parathe Waali Gali’ In Chandni Chowk or the ‘Chaat’ available in Janpat. So, what made these places special? It was thecharacters that own the stalls in these streets. They made a reputation, mark for themselves in the one or two specialties their ‘Thelas ’ or provided. And, the experience was not just the food itself, it was the style or ‘andaaz’ it was served/created with. Whether it was a special ingredient or the unique way a ‘Thela wala’would use a knife made of a hardware saw-blade, shoved into an old broken knife handle or the way he swirled his hand as he squeezed fresh lemon juice on top of his spicy‘chaat’ creation.. All this while as people gathered around him and waited for their order they were being entertained by the old, classic melodies
• June 2011
ASIA 29 TODAY
blasting from the crackling antique radio that was tied to a car battery with a few rubber bands. It was the overall experience that made each dish memorable. Most importantly, what these streets or ‘galis’ also stressed was equality. It was loved by the rich and poor alike. There were just as many poor or middle class people in line at the stands waiting for food as there were cars lined up, waiting for children to take their money and run the food to their car windows. And, it really brought home the point, that rich or poor, we are all human and enjoy the same experiences. It also made me realize some things in life are unique because they are just plain simple,raw and connected to them are your memories. I have yet to enjoy a ‘Paani Puri’ in a restaurant style setting or for that matter an ‘Aloo Tikki’ in a paper plate. My favorite ‘gali waala’ food isthe ‘Kulche Choley’sold behind The Red fort Gardens by street vendors. If you would like to read my ‘Kulche Choley’ experience or share one of your street food experience, please visit Hurry Mirch on Facebook at www. facebook.com/hurry mirch By Samarth Mohan Pathak
ASIA 30 How to Make a Smart Solar Lease Decision TODAY
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www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
here are literally hundreds of solar companies offering lease agreements, but what factors should commercial building owners consider before choosing a solar integration company? Building managers should evaluate the product specifications for the solar panels, the power inverters, the racking system, the conduit used to carry the solar electricity to the building’s junction box and make sure that each system is double checked for maximum solar power production. Leading solar integration companies carry top of the line CentroSolar, Sanyo, Schuco, Schott, Sharp, and Trina solar panels that have a zero power loss STC rating. Solar installers should only be using solar panels that are -0/+3% or higher, which means they will produce their exact energy rating or up to 3% more solar power than expected with no minus rated power. The solar power production is precise and guaranteed. Many solar integration companies use solar panels that have a variance of -3/+3 meaning the name plate rating could fall short of expectations by 3% and cause solar panel string mismatch problems. The same is true when choosing photovoltaic inverters that convert DC power generated by the solar panels into AC current with the highest efficiency possible. Power-One’s solar power inverters have one of the highest efficiency rating of 96.8% in the solar industry. Many power inverters will shut off or degrade performance at 104 to 113 degrees, but Power-One inverters will not shutoff or degrade performance until the outside ambient temperature exceeds 122 degrees, which is important in Arizona’s summertime heat. Many installers like the Dual-Channel Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) photovoltaic string inverters because they allow solar panel strings with two different orientations such as panels mounted on south, southeast or southwest facing rooftops. MPPT is the automatic adjustment of the electrical load to achieve the greatest possible power solar energy harvest during moment-to-moment variations of light level, shading, temperature, and photovoltaic module characteristics. The Power-One solar power inverters also offer the widest input voltage range, which makes it possible to install shorter and/or longer solar panel strings as needed; deliver transformerless operation; and provide a NEMA-4 rated enclosure that protects against the harshest outdoor weather condi-
tions. to have a general or make, especially when there are financSolar installations electrical contractor’s ing options available such as commershould always include license. cial solar lease agreements that allow a computerized Sun All solar integrators building owners to install a $300,000 Shade and Digital Sun should also have some system with no money out-of-pocket. Power analysis to make type of training such as Generating $14,400 worth of clean sure that all of the balAPS’ Qualified Solar electricity per year is great for green ance-of-system comInstaller program that marketing purposes. Paying $9,000 for ponents are installed at confirms that install- a yearly solar lease payment is very afmaximum power proers have successfully fordable. Generating $4,800 per year duction tilt angles and taken and passed so- in extra cash flow is a good way to imaligned properly with lar photovoltaic design prove the company’s bottom line. Not accurate south-facing and installation training having to pay one penny out of your polar orientation. classes. own pocket to install a commercial soBy Neal Uppal In addition to meaBuilding owners lar power array is priceless. President of Solar Topps suring tilt and polar should always check To help educate readers on what orientation, installers customer references types of questions a customer should should use a digital solar power meter when selecting a solar integration com- be asking solar installation companies to check the thermal window efficiency pany. Talking to existing customers is a as they shop for the best finest quality measuring UV and solar power recep- great way to evaluate a solar integra- products, guaranteed power production, tion to make sure that each solar panel tor’s customer service, the quality of good warranty and the lowest price in is producing 100% or more of the name their solar installations and the custom- town, Solar Topps has uploaded a free plate energy rating. er’s overall satisfaction. white paper that will teach customers Using the best solar photovoltaic City code inspectors and util- how to evaluate each company based panels and power inverters available ity commissioning staff members also on the answers they provide to the list and double checking the entire balance make great sources to speak to off-the- of technical solar installation questions. of system’s performance is critical for record because they know which com- The “How to Make a Smart Solar Lease maximum solar power production. panies consistently pass inspections on Purchase Decision” whitepaper can be One of the most important consid- the first visit and which ones do not. downloaded at: http://www.solartopps. erations for commercial building ownInstalling a 75-kilowatt commercial com/whitepapers/how-to-make-aers is how the solar power array is solar system is one of the best deci- smart-solar-power-purchase-decision. installed on the roof. All rooftop pen- sions an Arizona building owner can pdf. etrations should be 100% water proof for the entire solar system’s lifetime. Most commercial rooftops are flat and require no roof penetration. Instead, solar racking systems are weighted down with heavy ballasts. Some solar installation companies use cinder blocks, but a quick way to identify a quality integration company is to search for one that uses concrete blocks. Concrete blocks do not deteriorate as fast as cinder blocks. For pitched roofs that do require penetrations, installers should double flash each roof penetration and seal with both roof cement and flashing sealant.The base flashing layer should be heavy gauge galvanized metal and the top layer should be aluminum flashing. In addition to the equipment specifications, building owners need to carefully examine the expertise of the personnel performing the solar installations. It is very important to make sure that the installation company is registered with Arizona Register of Contrac(Seen in picture are members of the Asian Interest Network of SRP pretors (www.azroc.gov). senting a donation check to ASAFSF volunteers). The Arizona Registrar of Contractor’s website makes it possible to reembers of the Asian Interest Network (AIN) at SRP organized a fundraiser search a company’s contractor license luncheon at the SRP offices in April, 2011 in support of the Arizona South number to make sure the company is in Asians For Safe Families (ASAFSF). ASAFSF is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organigood standing and to see if any comzation providing support services to victims of Domestic Violence in the South plaints have been filed against their Asian communities of Arizona. For more information about ASAFSF please ROC license number. Commercial sovisit their website at: www.asafsf.org. lar integration companies are required
Check Presentation to ASAFSF by SRP employees
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star Monthly www.asiatodayaz.com ARIES
Mar 21 to Apr 20
CANCER
Jun 22 to Jul 22
LIBRA
Sep 24 to Oct 23
CAPRICOM
Dec 22 to Jan 21
• June 2011
The month of June can be especially hectic for you, dear Aries, but it can also be extremely rewarding if you can manage to pace yourself. You can be pulled in many different directions, and you’ll need to be both flexible and quick. Income should be good, although the inclination to spend is strong as well. This is a long-term influence that will be with you for a year. Some of you could be taking courses to better your skills.
TAURUS
While you can continue to find yourself in high demand at the beginning of June, dear Cancer, you’re likely to have an increased need for time to yourself and for extra rest as the month progresses. You tend to naturally withdraw from more competitive or demanding situations. You definitely need a break from a hectic pace and from the critical eyes of others.
LEO
June is a considerably more outgoing month for you, dear Libra. You’ve been focusing on darker and deeper matters recently, and perhaps feeling a little out of step. This is changing rapidly this month as you seek new experiences and are exposed to broader ideas. While you can feel a tad restless at times, and possibly even hemmed in, you are bound to find ways to expand your mind. Your major focus begins to turn to work and health matters in June, dear Capricorn, and while there can be an especially hectic pace and changes to contend with, it’s likely to be a successful month overall. One reason is a wonderful shift in attitude that has you feeling particularly hopeful and confident. Resolving conflicts with others is favored as you come across in a more favorable light than usual.
April 21 to May 20
Jul 23 to Aug 23
SCORPIO
Oct 24 to Nov 22
AQUARIES
Jan 22 to Feb 19
While June is a month of opportunity, dear Taurus, avoid trying to “do it all” too soon and too quickly. Instead, focus on one or two opportunities and projects. It should be a strong month for money matters. You are likely to do some shuffling around with finances, and June is good for little windfalls, reducing debt, and the ability to borrow at favorable rates, if necessary. Emotionally, you’re definitely moving forward this month!
GEMINI
Recognition for what you do and how well you do it is forthcoming this month, dear Leo. In fact, you’re now entering a year-long cycle in which this kind of positive professional attention comes naturally, readily, and heartily! While career matters remain a strong focus, you’re also branching out and networking. Friendships assume more importance in your life in June.
VIRGO
This month, you’re entering a yearlong cycle in which the way you relate to others on a one-to-one level changes and expands, dear Scorpio. You are likely to derive much pleasure from partnership, and people you meet can be most helpful at enlivening your life. By giving more freedom to a special someone in your life, you’ll enjoy a stronger sense of personal fulfillment. June does require some adjustments, especially on a financial level, and particularly around the 15th. You are coming out of your “shell” this month, dear Aquarius, and you’re ready to have some fun. Your romantic life can take center stage in June, and while there can be some social drama in your life now, for the most part you’re likely to have a good time. It’s a favorable month for announcing or showing your creative work. Problems are easier to work through with family members.
May 21 to June 21
Aug 24 to Sep 23
SAGITTARIUS
Nov 23 to Dec 21
PISCES
Feb 20 to Mar 20
ASIA 31 TODAY
June can be a personally powerful month for most Geminis. Many of you will be reinventing yourself in some significant manner, with a new look or a new way of approaching the world. You’re a self-starter this month, especially from the 21st forward. Friendships can be especially rewarding and helpful this month. Mid-month, close personal relationships come into strong focus and require special attention. Your professional life is picking up speed this month, dear Virgo, and you might often find yourself smack in the middle of situations that require you to be on top of your game. You are likely to want to improve your domestic life this month, making changes that allow for more space, whether that involves an actual move to a larger place, eliminating unnecessary furniture and accumulated possessions, or reorganizing in order to create the illusion of more space. June is a strong month for relationships, dear Sagittarius. Your willingness to listen to and support a partner is key. Socially, people are seeing you in a positive light. Emotions tend to run high and there can be some level of drama in your relationships. Work matters are improving dramatically this month, and will continue to do so for many months to come. The only caution here is to avoid taking on too much at once. While June can begin at a hectic pace, dear Pisces, you’re likely to find much solace in home and family as the month progresses. Efforts to make improvements to your home life should be very successful this month, and you’re likely to want to entertain from home or do some redecorating. New opportunities to learn and new intellectual interests are likely to round out your days well, bringing more satisfaction to your life.
ASIA 32 TODAY
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• June 2011
Phoenician Medical Center adds Advanced Imaging Center
by Deepa Walia May, 2011 he Phoenician Medical Center adds yet another facility to its connected circle of medical facilities to provide patients with a one-stop shop for all their health needs. Phoenician Medical Center is the corporate parent of a group of medical organizations that provide an efficient, coordinated experience for people that may need services from a primary care physician, as well as other specialists. In addition to the facilities owned by the medical
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center, they also have partnerships with various specialists to provide a complete set of services for their patients under one facility. This includes East Valley Family Medical, Phoenician Women’s Care, Optima Vein Care, Phoenix Neurological Institute, amongst others. Since its inception, they have been growing at a rate of 30% per year. Earlier this year, the medical center made a commitment to invest in reorganizing the growing facility to align it for growth in the future, keeping in mind the needs of its patients
and with this addition, it is working towards just that. The Imaging Center will allow the doctors of the medical center to provide advanced imaging exams right on site instead of having to refer their patients to another imaging location. Congratulations to Bobbi Tuli, CEO of Phoenician Medical Center, and his amazing team of doctors and staff on yet another milestone. Asia Today was honored to be part of the celebrations and is happy to share some moments from the celebratory evening.
SPORTS www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
CHENNAI: Chennai Super Kings won a second successive Indian Premier League (IPL) title after thrashing Royal Challengers Bangalore by 58 runs in May 28 final as openers Murali Vijay and Mike Hussey smashed half centuries. Vijay (52-ball 95) and Australian Hussey (45-ball 63) vindicated captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s decision to bat first with an opening stand of 159 runs in just 14.5 overs in hot and humid conditions at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium. Egged on by a capacity crowd at home, where the Chennai outfit have remained unbeaten in the fourth edition of the IPL, the openers hit nine sixes and seven boundaries between them as Ban-
ASIA 33 TODAY
galore’s bowling completely fell apart. Chennai lost quick wickets towards the end as they went for more runs but still managed to reach a mammoth total of 205 for the loss of five wickets. Bangalore’s only hope of pulling off an unlikely victory rested on big-hitting West Indian Chris Gayle but the tournament’s top scorer fell in the first over for a duck to off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin. Ashwin picked up three wickets for just 16 runs off his four overs as the Chennai spinners picked up six out of the eight wickets that fell for the side led by Daniel Vettori. Bangalore limped to 147 for eight wickets at the end of their 20 overs after being reduced to 70 for six at one stage.
Barcelona wins Champions League WEMBLEY (England): Barcelona and Lionel Messi put their places among football’s all-time greats beyond all doubt as the Argentina forward scored one goal and created another in a mesmerizing 3-1 Champions League final win over Manchester United on Saturday. Barcelona justified its status as overwhelming favorite by dominating possession with trademark one-touch passing. But with Wayne Rooney having equalized Pedro Rodriguez’s firsthalf opener, the Spanish champions could not force the crucial breakthrough until the Argentina striker conjured a 54th-minute solo strike from the edge of the area. There seemed to be no space as Messi was tracked by fullback Patrice Evra, but the two-time world player of the year spotted a gap between the central defenders and hit a shot down the middle, beating goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar for pace. Man-of-the-match Messi followed his 53rd goal of a remarkable season with a feint and run that eventually led to David Villa receiving possession on the edge of the area, from where the Spain striker curled a shot into the top corner. A third Champions League title in six seasons and fourth overall means
that only Liverpool, AC Milan and fierce rival Real Madrid have won more European Cups than Barcelona’s four. “I feel privileged,” Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola said. “You always want to win, but the the way we have won is what I am most proud of. This is the way we want to play football. “Lionel is the best player I have seen and probably the best I will ever see.” Messi was typically taciturn in his celebration. “I’m very happy about the match,” Messi said. “We were the better team. We deserved to win.” No team has dominated Europe so comprehensively since Madrid’s three
titles in five seasons from 1998-2002, and even that spell was punctuated by barren seasons. Guardiola has now won 10 titles— including two European Cups—in his three years in charge of the club he served as a player for 17 years. Alex Ferguson, the most decorated manager in English football history, has needed 25 years with United to win the same number of Champions League titles. “They do mesmerize you with their passing and we never really did control Messi,” Ferguson said. “But many people have said that. “In my time as manager, it’s the best team I’ve faced.” With Pedro scoring Barcelona’s
opening goal midway through the first half from an imaginative through ball from stand-in captain Xavi Hernandez, the win was as comprehensive as its 2-0 victory over United in the 2009 final in Rome. “When Rome finished, I thought we had played a good game, but when I looked at it again I wasn’t that impressed,” Guardiola said. “But it has served its purpose. “I think we played much better than the game two years ago.” The performance was so comfortable that Guardiola was able to bring on regular captain Carles Puyol for the last few moments, giving the injury-hit defender the chance to play a part in a memorable triumph. But in a gesture symbolizing Barcelona’s team ethic, Puyol handed the armband over to Eric Abidal—whose place in the team had been in doubt after he had surgery this season to remove a liver tumor—and the France defender lifted the famous trophy. “Players are human beings,” Guardiola said. “Carles has made a great gesture and it has made us stronger.” United improved upon its 2009 final performance in Rome and did equalize in the 34th through Rooney, but could do little to disrupt Europe’s dominant footballing force.
ASIA 34 TODAY
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• June 2011
Chai with... Arizona Center for Digestive Health By Asia Today Team: Article By Deepa Walia, Interview by Raja Walia
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his month, the Asia Today Team had the opportunity to, meet with the doctors at the Arizona Center for Digestive Health. The practice based out of Gilbert, Arizona, which consists of four doctors, is a gastroenterology and advanced endoscopy practice that diagnoses and treats diseases of the stomach, liver, colon, intestines, and pancreas. In addition to seeing general conditions, they also specialize in advanced therapeutic procedures that help diagnose gastrointestinal cancers before they happen and treat/cure early detected cancers. Even though the group is only a year old, between the four doctors they have over 50 years of experience. Dr. Virender Kumar Sharma, MD, specializing in diseases related to the esophagus, was the first doctor to leave Mayo Clinic and his post of Professor of Medicine and venture out on his own. He was soon thereafter joined by Dr. Hack Jae Kim, MD, who also specializes in esophagus and mortility related issues, which is related to the process of how intestines push food down the system and issues such as problems swallowing, constipation, etc. Dr. Ananya Das, MD specializes in endoscopic ultrasounds. And, finally, Dr. Kanwal Sachdev, MD, does the same thing as Dr. Das but also specializes in pancreatic conditions and liver disease. We were thrilled that two out of the four doctors at the practice were available to meet with us and give us their perspective on the clinic
and their services. Dr. Kanwal Sachdev, MD, who grew up in Phoenix, Arizona with his parents and brother, has been here since 1976, at a time when there were only about 15-20 South Asian families here and the city was 15 times smaller than it is today. His father is a retired neurologist and his mom is a real estate agent. After completing his high school at Brophy, he went to University of Arizona for a year until he was sure he wanted to be a doctor and went back to Ludhiana, Punjab to complete medical school. He moved back to the states in 1999, did his residency at Maricopa in downtown phoenix and spent a year at Mayo Clinic, specializing in liver transplants. After that, he also worked at the University of Tennessee as a faculty member and completed his GI training there. He then spent another year learning advanced machineries at Northwestern in Chicago, IL before moving back to Arizona to start this practice. Happily married with a 5 year old daughter, his wife is an oncologist working at Scottsdale Healthcare specializing in breast cancer.
He chose this career path because when he was in medical school in Punjab, he saw many people with alcohol related liver diseases and felt naturally drawn to this specialization. After doing his internal medicine residency, he decided to specialize in the GI tract. He does a lot of procedures that are therapeutic in nature such as ERCP and EUS. Learning those procedures required an year of extra training and he was interested in them because of the advanced technology and success related to these procedures. His final message to our readers again stressed the importance of regular screenings and checkups. The South Asian community is also generally prone to acid reflux diseases, a condition which can lead to cancer of the esophagus. He recommends that anyone that has been suffering from it for more than 5 years three to four times a week should get a screening for cancer of the esophagus. Dr. Sachdev informed us that the clinic performs a large number of colon cancer screenings. He advised on the importance of getting reg-
ular screenings at the age of 50 and as early as the age of 40, if there is a family history of colon disease. Colon cancer can be prevented 90% of the time if it is identified early and for early identification, screenings are a must. This is commonly caused by a western diet which is heavy in meat and low in vegetables. To reduce your risk, he recommended a diet high in fiber, including fiber supplements, and increasing your vegetable intake while reducing your heavy meat intake. Dr. Hack Jae Kim, MD, is originally from South Korea and his family moved to the states when he was 10 years old. He attended medical school at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraskaand did his internal medicine training there. He really liked his GUI rotation, not just as a resident but also as a student, and went on to Mayo Clinic in Rochester to do GI training. From there, he transferred to the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale and later joined this practice. He has a total of 11 years of experience in the GI specialty. Married, he is the father of two children – a 7 and 9 year old that are
both in grade school in Scottsdale. Dr. Kim specializes in therapeutic procedures including early treatment of colon and esophageal cancers. He is grateful to the many mentors and individuals that have contributed to his endoscopic skills and treatment techniques and feels blessed to be around them. Even today, he is grateful for the learning experiences the four of them get from each other. In his opinion, what differentiates them from other practices is the cutting edge treatment and management of patient health available at their facilities. Working with two hospitals, they are not only able to diagnose GI related diseases but also treat almost all of them, excluding liver transplants. When he was working at Mayo, they received many referrals from clinics that could diagnose but due to a lack of facility, technology, or expertise, doctors would refer them to Mayo and try to get them into Mayo. However, Mayo is limited to who it accepts and the insurances it takes. At Arizona Center for Digestive Health, they take all insurances and are able to treat almost all of their patients with simple to complex GI orders. Asia Today is grateful to Dr. Kim and Dr. Sachdev for giving us valuable time during the day. For additional information regarding their practice, please visit www.azcdh. com or call 480/507-5678. We wish Arizona Center for Digestive Health and the doctors continued success in the coming years.
www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
ASIA 35 TODAY
ASIA 36 TODAY
Health www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
Apt treatment, the only way to cure
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hroughout the course of our lives, we all experience episodes of stress, unhappiness, sadness, or grief. Often, when a loved one dies or we suffer a personal tragedy or difficulty such as divorce, loss of a job, or death of a loved one, we may feel depressed (some people call this “the blues”). Most of us are able to cope with these and other types of stressful events. Over a period of days or weeks, the majority of us are able to return to our normal activities. But when these feelings of sadness and other symptoms make it hard for us to get through the day, and when the symptoms last for more than a couple of weeks in a row, we may have what is called “clinical depression.” The term clinical depression is usually used to distinguish the illness of depression from less difficult feelings of sadness or the blues. Clinical depression is not just grief or feeling sad. It is an illness that can challenge your ability to perform even routine daily activities. At its worst, depression may lead you to contemplate, attempt, or commit suicide. Depression represents a burden for both you and your family. Sometimes that burden can seem overwhelming. There are several different types of clinical depression (mood disorders that include depressive symptoms): • Major depression is an episode of change in mood that lasts for weeks or months. It is one of the most severe types of depression. It usually involves a low or irritable mood and/or a loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities. It interferes with one’s normal functioning and often includes physical symptoms. A person may experience only one episode of major depression, but often there are repeated episodes over an individual’s lifetime. • Dysthymia is less severe than major depression but usually goes on for a longer period, often several years. There are usually periods of feeling fairly normal between episodes of low mood. The symptoms
depression
usually do not completely disrupt one’s normal activities. • Bipolar disorder involves episodes of depression, usually severe, alternating with episodes of extreme elation called mania. This condition is sometimes called by its older name, manic depression. The depression that is associated with bipolar disorder is often referred to as bipolar depression. When depression is not associated with bipolar disorder, it is called unipolar depression. • Seasonal depression, which medical professionals call seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is depression that occurs only at a certain time of the year, usually winter, when the number of daylight hours is lower. It is sometimes called “winter blues.” Although it is predictable, it can be very severe. • Psychotic depression refers to the situation when depression and hallucinations or delusions are experienced at the same time (co-occur). This may be the result of depression that becomes so severe that it results in the sufferer losing touch with reality. Individuals who primarily suffer from a loss of touch with reality (for example, schizophrenia) are thought to suffer from an imbalance of dopamine activity in the brain and to be at risk of subsequently becoming depressed. Adjustment disorder is a state of distress that occurs in relation to a stressful life event. It is usually an isolated reaction that resolves when the stress passes. Although it may be accompanied by a depressed mood, it is not considered a depressive disorder. Some people believe that depression is “normal” in people who are elderly, have other health problems, have setbacks or other tragedies, or have bad life situations. On the contrary, clinical depression is always abnormal and always requires attention from a medical or mental-health professional. The good news is that depression can be diagnosed and treated effectively in most people. The biggest barriers to overcoming depression are recognition of the condition and seeking appropriate treatment. Depression Facts/Statistics Clinical depression affects about 19 million Americans annually. It is estimated to contribute to half of all suicides. About 5%-10% of women and 2%-5% of men will experience at least one major depressive episode during their adult life. Depression affects people of all races, incomes, ages, and ethnic and religious backgrounds, but it is three to five times more common in the elderly than in young people.
Break free from ‘maya’s’ stranglehold
“The body is the puppet of ‘maya’, moved by the force of ego.” — Guru Granth Sahib. Maya is a great dissembler, yet so powerful a force of delusion that we are held fast in its coils. Trapped, we are led further and further away from our goal, which is a union with God. And are lost forever. But what exactly does ‘maya’ do? First, it causes confusion about the most basic concept — our own identity. When asked ‘Who are you?’ the answer is always a name. A name denotes a body; the body comprises a personality. And we believe that, that is who we are. But our body is only the garment. Without the soul it would have nothing to clothe! To confuse our identity with that of our body is to mistake the container for the thing contained. A beggar sat by the wayside, collecting pennies in a little bowl. One day, he was found dead, in penurious circumstances. When the authorities examined his bowl, imagine their surprise when they discovered that it was a rare antique, worth millions of dollars. Yet, all his life, the beggar had merely focussed
on the pennies, never sparing a thought for the receptacle! We are no different. Blinded by maya’s power, we concentrate on our senses, which are no more than pennies, forgetting at all times, the priceless soul which animates us. It is this, which leads us to ‘maya’s’ other delusion —that we can be happy if our senses are satiated. And so, we provide our eyes endless forms of beauty, our nose, each variant of perfume, our ears, wonderful music, our tongue, every cuisine known to man. And find we are still chasing joy. A beggar, decided to approach Akbar for alms believing that he was the most powerful and therefore the happiest of beings. One day, he stood in wait outside the mosque. He heard Akbar pray, “Lord give me wealth, give me power, give me peace.” He turned away, disappointed, saying, “I went to meet a king. I found only another beggar.” Hence, unless we recognise the senses for what they are - capricious and wild, we can never break free from ‘maya’s’ stranglehold.
Life style www.asiatodayaz.com
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bout our thoughts, our life style is our thoughts. Our thoughts develop through our daily practice. The kind of practice we have every day directly influences our thoughts in that direction. Someone who is feeding the birds will find the birds will come the same time at regular feeding. It will surprise you how birds learn the routine to come the same time. It`s a result of the development of the thoughts. If you go in the garden and carefully observe the growth pattern and you choose one plant especially to follow, you will see new branches, leaves and different energy every day in the plant. Very soon you will see the plant will start growing flowers. That establishment will give you new hope and excitement to see the full image of the flower which may have varying colors and shapes. This phenomenon can give a new direction to the thinker about creation of nature, how nature works creating new images of beauty and magnificence on this planet. By observing nature`s structure of the creation, our mind can desire to develop spiritual thoughts, because the spiritual way of life is a subconscious thirst of the human being. The reason is, without spiritual understanding and knowledge, peace of mind is
• June 2011
ASIA 37 TODAY
Development Of The Thoughts
not possible. Why do we need peace of mind? Because, peace of mind is the High Consciousness of the human being. High consciousness is an egoless state of mind. When our mind reaches the egoless state then it connects with reality of the truth. Reality of the Truth is the Supreme Creator of this universe.What is the natural process to develop the spiritual thoughts?
The beginning of the process is very simple. There are four steps: 1. Reverence 2. Devotion 3. Dedication 4. Faith The Hindu Religion is the best source to learn the four steps. When your mind is ready to learn the four steps, visit any Hindu congregation in their Temple. The first thing you will see is a variety of people coming to-
gether to play the religious role, singing and chanting together. Regardless of language or prayer they try to merge and enjoy and serve each other without discrimination. They have many alters with varying idols in the same Temple and they have Reverence for all of them. It’s the first step in the learning process. When they make an offering to the idols you will see very deep Devotion and Dedication. The strength of their Faith is demonstrated by the intensity of their actions of Devotion. The Hindu religion has evolved just as nature has, reflecting the many faces of God in the creation, demonstrating the presence of God everywhere. As long as we fail to see the God everywhere, that long, we will fail to follow the Divine path in the reality. Without understanding this concept of Omnipresence we are unable to cleanse hypocrisy (duality and ego) from our lives. God Bless You With Divine Wisdom. - Gyani Harbhajan Singh Sandhu Phoenix.
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Yoga
enefits of yoga are not a miracle. Even spending 30 minutes daily on yoga can make a tremendous change to your body and life. Yoga Benefits For Healthy Body • Makes your body flexible. • Tunes your metabolism. • Give you a feeling of well being which is not available with any other exercise. • It works like magic as it enables the body to realize its full potential of good health. • Derive maximum nutritive value from the food you eat. • Yoga stimulates your body and provide natural immunity against diseases. • Proper breathing and relaxation result in deeper, more beneficial sleep and a general sense of restfulness and well being. Cool mind • Yoga brings harmony in your thought and actions. • Power to re-fresh and relax your nerves and calm your mind. • Relaxation in yoga leads to better concentration. Energise your personal life • Yoga can bring in perfection, peace and lasting happiness. • Yoga teaches patience. • Excellent physical health leads to relaxed approach to our emotional problems. • Learn to live without tensions, you discover your own optimum potential. • Student of yoga finds himself in control of his thoughts instead of being controlled by them. Recharge your professional life • Improve efficiency. • Improves memory. • Brings your emotions under control and improves your Emotional Quotient. • Yoga makes you a healthy and relaxed individual. • Improves decision making as you are always at peace with yourself. • Yoga practice provides enough energy and vigour to last the day.
a way to healthy life
ASIA 38 TODAY
• June 2011
www.asiatodayaz.com
Darbar-e-Khalsa at Nishkam Sewa Gurudwara by Deepa Walia, May 14, 2011 sia Today Arizona, together with Mauj Entertainment, was proud to sponsor and host a Darbar-e-KJhalsa on the evening of May 14th at the Nishkam
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Sewa Gurudwara. This evening brought together five Raagi Jathas and attracted a large number of devotees. We are pleased to share some moments captured during this joy and faith filled evening.
www.asiatodayaz.com
• June 2011
ASIA 39 TODAY
June 1 to June 30
June 1 to June 30
ASIA 40 TODAY
• June 2011
www.asiatodayaz.com