The Indian Panorama

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  • International Day of Yoga celebrated in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador

    International Day of Yoga celebrated in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador

    GUATEMALA CITY (TIP): To commemorate the International Day of Yoga 2023, the Embassy of India in Guatemala organized a series of yoga events across Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. These events aimed to unite yoga enthusiasts from the Central American region and emphasize the significance of yoga in enhancing physical and mental well-being. The Embassy’s efforts were focused on promoting the practice of yoga and fostering a deeper connection between the Indian and Central American communities through these events.

    The theme for this year’s International Day of Yoga was “Vasudhaiv Kutumbakam,” which emphasizes the concept of the world as one family. Through the practice of yoga, we aimed to promote unity, harmony, and inclusivity among individuals and communities. It was a wonderful opportunity for the school children to experience the benefits of yoga and participate in this global celebration.

    Embassy of India celebrated yoga event at Mariscal Zavala attended by 2500 participants

    The major highlight of the International Day of Yoga 2023 celebrations was the grand Mega Yoga Show held at Mariscal Zavala in Guatemala City on 18th June 2023. This highly anticipated event drew a remarkable crowd of 2500 participants, comprising students, government officials, and enthusiastic members of the public. The grand Yoga event provided a platform to showcase the beauty and effectiveness of various yoga asanas, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. It served as a remarkable opportunity to raise awareness about the profound impact that yoga can have on one’s daily life, fostering a sense of harmony and well-being. Invaluable support and cooperation from Ministry of Defence and Military personnel played a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth execution of the event, from assistance in logistical arrangements to security measures. The Embassy acknowledged and appreciated their dedication and commitment to making the International Day of Yoga a resounding success. Their collaborative efforts exemplify the spirit of unity and harmony that yoga promotes.

    Yoga event at UPNFM, Tegucigalpa, Honduras

    In Tegucigalpa, Honduras, a remarkable Yoga Event was held at Universidad Pedagógica Nacional Francisco Morazán (UPNFM) on 20th June 2023. The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including students, faculty members, and local yoga enthusiasts. With an aim to promote the holistic benefits of yoga, the event featured a wide range of yoga asanas and engaging interactive sessions. Around 150 yoga participants from different parts of Honduras attended the event, showcasing the growing interest and engagement of the local community. Through the consistent organization of yoga events, the Embassy of India has successfully established a strong presence among the Honduran population, attracting yoga enthusiasts of all ages and fostering a sense of well-being and harmony.

    Embassy organized yoga gathering at iconic Santa Catalina Arch, in world heritage city of Antigua Guatemala today to celebrate IDY2023.

    The Embassy continued its efforts to organise Yoga events in different iconic places of Central America and one of the most prominent places was in the City of Antigua, which has a history of more than 500 years old. On 21st June 2023, the Embassy of India in Guatemala chose the iconic Santa Catalina Arch in Antigua, Guatemala as the venue for a captivating yoga event. The arch, a magnificent symbol of Guatemala’s rich art and cultural heritage, provided a mesmerizing setting for the participants to engage in yoga practices and embrace a serene ambiance. With the participation of approximately 100 yoga enthusiasts and local Guatemalans, the event not only celebrated the International Day of Yoga but also aimed to promote Guatemala’s cultural legacy and foster the integration of yoga into the community’s lifestyle. It was a harmonious blend of cultural appreciation and holistic well-being.

    Embassy of India in Guatemala City organized International Day of Yoga at Casa Comunal de la Colonia Guadalupe, Soyapango, El Salvador.

    In the same spirit of celebrating the International Day of Yoga, yet another remarkable venue was chosen in Central America, specifically Casa Comunal de la Colonia Guadalupe in Soyapango, El Salvador. This serene location provided an ideal setting for a memorable yoga event, attended by 400 participants. The event focused on the significance of holistic well-being and stress reduction, highlighting the transformative power of yoga through invigorating sessions and guided meditation. By choosing this venue, the Embassy of India aimed to create a harmonious environment where individuals could immerse themselves in the practice of yoga, fostering a sense of balance, peace, and inner harmony. It was a testament to the universality of yoga’s principles and its ability to transcend boundaries and connect people from all walks of life.
    In addition to the grand-scale yoga events, the Embassy of India in Guatemala organized a Yoga Gathering at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in Guatemala attended by approx. 70 participants. This event held special significance as it aimed to strengthen the diplomatic ties between the two nations through the practice of yoga. The gathering brought together embassy staff, government officials, and MoFA employees, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual understanding. Participants had the opportunity to experience firsthand the transformative power of yoga, both in terms of physical well-being and mental clarity. This intimate gathering served as a platform to showcase the shared commitment towards promoting holistic wellness and fostering a harmonious relationship between India and Guatemala.
    Furthermore, the Embassy and Government of El Salvador has taken the initiative to organize another Mega Yoga Event in El Salvador on 30 July 2023. This event holds special significance as it reflects the growing recognition and support for yoga by the government of El Salvador. By bringing together an anticipated gathering of 4000-5000 participants, this event will not only promote the practice of yoga but also serve as a platform to foster well-being and unity among attendees. It is an opportunity for the two democratic nations to come together, strengthen their bond, and celebrate the shared values of holistic wellness and mindfulness. Through this event, the Embassy aims to deepen the existing ties between India and El Salvador while showcasing the transformative power of yoga in promoting physical, mental, and spiritual harmony.

    In conclusion, the Embassy of India in Guatemala, along with its counterparts in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador, successfully organized a series of yoga events to commemorate the International Day of Yoga 2023. These events brought together yoga enthusiasts, government officials, and members of the local communities to celebrate the power of yoga in promoting physical and mental well-being. The Embassy’s efforts to promote yoga as a way of life and foster cultural exchange were met with great enthusiasm and participation. The attached photographs capture the vibrant atmosphere and the spirit of unity that prevailed during these events. The Embassy remains committed to promoting the practice of yoga and strengthening the bond between India and the Central American region through such initiatives.

  • US lawmakers, Indian-Americans condemn attack on Indian consulate in San Francisco, seek action against perpetrators

    US lawmakers, Indian-Americans condemn attack on Indian consulate in San Francisco, seek action against perpetrators

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): US lawmakers and influential Indian-Americans have condemned the attempted arson at the Indian consulate in San Francisco and called for expeditious action against those behind this “criminal act”.

    They also slammed the “violent rhetoric” against India’s Ambassador to the US Taranjit Singh Sandhu and said free speech does not mean a license to incite violence or vandalize property.

    A video by Khalistan supporters, dated July 2 and posted on Twitter, showed the act of arson at the Indian consulate in San Francisco.

    The video, with the words “violence begets violence” emblazoned over it, also showed news articles related to the death of Canada-based Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) chief Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Nijjar, one of India’s most-wanted terrorists who carried a cash reward of Rs 10 lakh on his head, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Canada last month.

    In a joint statement issued on Thursday, July 6, Congressmen Ro Khanna and Michael Waltz, co-chairs of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, said violence against diplomatic facilities will not be tolerated.

    “As the co-chairs of the India Caucus, we strongly condemn the attempted arson and vandalism at the Indian Consulate in San Francisco and the posters circulating on social media with violent rhetoric aimed at Indian diplomats, including Ambassador Sandhu,” they said. “We support the right to free speech and freedom of expression for every American but that is not a license to vandalize property or incite violence. Violence against diplomatic facilities is a criminal offence and will not be tolerated. We urge the State Department to coordinate with law enforcement in their investigation of the damage at the Indian Consulate expeditiously and hold those involved accountable,” they added.

    Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick said the attack on the Indian consulate is unacceptable.

    “I firmly condemn the repeated hateful attacks on the Indian Consulate and look forward to those involved being held accountable with appropriate legal action,” he said.

    Till Thursday, no action had been taken against those involved in the attack on the Indian consulate.

    A spokesperson of the National Security Council of the White House said the US takes the safety and security of diplomats very seriously. “We take very seriously the safety and security of diplomats living in the United States and strongly condemn acts of vandalism or violence against diplomatic facilities or personnel,” the spokesperson told PTI.

    Congressman Mike Lawler said the attempted arson at the Indian consulate was disturbing.

    “I had the pleasure of welcoming Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi of India to Washington, D.C. last month and look forward to a continued, strong partnership with the world’s largest democracy,” he said.

    Condemning the attack in the “strongest possible terms”, Indian-American Congressman Shri Thanedar said, “Violence and attempts to instill terror are unacceptable in a democracy.” Congressman Rich McCormick said this attack is vile and unacceptable.

    “Americans stand by our allies and our patriotic Indian-American community,” he said in a tweet. Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna slammed the posters against Indian diplomats in the US, including Sandhu, doing the rounds on social media.

    “I know Ambassador Sandhu and respect him. When I bring up human rights issues, he always engages with civility, thoughtfulness & candor. This rhetoric puts diplomats in harm’s way. It’s dangerous and has no place in a democracy. Free speech does not mean a license to incite violence,” Khanna said. Last week’s attack was the second time within months that the Indian Consulate in San Francisco was targeted by Khalistani supporters.

    On March 19, a group of pro-Khalistan protesters attacked and damaged the consulate. Raising pro-Khalistan slogans, the protesters broke the makeshift security barriers raised by the city police and installed two so-called Khalistani flags inside the consulate premises. Two consulate personnel soon removed these flags.

    In a tweet, the South Asian Minorities Collective said, “Known for their proximity to Pakistani intelligence service, the Khalistan cult has been trying to revive itself over the past few years in US, UK and Canada.” Sikh leader Jasdeep Singh described the attack on the Indian consulate as “shameful and disgraceful”. “Whoever did it should be brought to the fullest extent of law. Targeting any consulate or any diplomat or anybody for that reason is not a good thing,” Singh told PTI. “Although it has not been identified who the perpetrators were, the community is very, very upset because it is being linked to the Khalistani movement.

    “There is a line between freedom of speech and the right to protest and getting involved in criminal activities like this one. So, we strongly condemn this criminal act,” he said. Responding to a question, Singh urged the Biden administration to make sure that consulates and diplomats of all countries, especially India, are protected and safe in the US. “The Sikh community by and large stands with the laws of this great nation, and if anyone breaks the laws of this nation, the government should go after them,” he said.

  • Biden admin urges court to deny Tahawwur Rana’s petition against extradition to India

    Biden admin urges court to deny Tahawwur Rana’s petition against extradition to India

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Biden administration has urged a court in California to deny the writ of habeas corpus filed by Pakistani-origin Canadian businessman Tahawwur Rana and reiterated that he be extradited to India where he is sought for his involvement in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. A US court had approved Rana’s extradition to India in May. Rana is currently detained at the Metropolitan Detention Centre in Los Angeles.

    “The United States respectfully requests that the Court deny Rana’s petition for a writ of habeas corpus,” said E Martin Estrada, US attorney for Central District of California in his petition filed before the US District Court for the Central District of California.

    Opposing Rana’s petition, Estrada said the petitioner is unable to demonstrate that India’s extradition request lacks sufficient evidence of probable cause. Last month, Rana had filed a writ of habeas corpus challenging a court order which approved the US government’s request that he be extradited to India.

    Rana’s attorney argued that his extradition would violate the US-India extradition treaty in two respects.

    First, Rana has been tried and acquitted in the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois for charges based on the identical conduct for which India seeks to prosecute him. The extradition is therefore barred under Article 6(1) of the Treaty, which declares that “(e)extradition shall not be granted when the person sought has been convicted or acquitted in the Requested State for the offence for which extradition is requested”.

    Second, the materials submitted by the government of India — comprising principally transcripts and exhibits from Rana’s trial in the Northern District of Illinois — fail to establish probable cause that he committed the offences with which India has charged him. The Indian government’s extradition request thus fails to satisfy Article 9.3(c) of the Treaty, according to Rana’s attorney.

    The court should grant the writ of habeas corpus, deny extradition and order Rana’s release, his attorney argued.

    India had filed a complaint on June 10, 2020 seeking the provisional arrest of Rana with a view towards extradition. The Biden administration had supported and approved his extradition to India. In his submission to the court on June 23, the US attorney had argued that Rana’s claims about the legitimacy of his business in Mumbai fall flat.

    The evidence does not support his assertion that the Mumbai office conducted legitimate business, but even if it did, the engagement of legitimate business activities does not preclude a finding that Rana’s business also served as a cover for his childhood friend Pakistani-American David Coleman Headley’s terrorism-related activities in Mumbai.

    “Rana’s claims about who funded the Mumbai office also do not relate to whether Rana lacked knowledge of and support for Headley’s activities. Similarly, even if Rana hoped to continue business operations in Mumbai, the evidence reveals that neither Rana nor Headley renewed the business lease that expired approximately two weeks before the start of the Mumbai attacks,” Estrada argued.

    Headley was one of the main conspirators of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. Estrada said the fact that Rana received a warning before the attacks does not preclude a finding of probable cause. “In the fall of 2008, when Headley learned that Rana was going to travel to China and India, he decided to warn Rana that an attack may be forthcoming through a co-conspirator,” he said.

    “While the details of the conversation between Rana and the co-conspirator are unknown, a September 7, 2009 FBI intercept reveals that Rana told Headley that their co-conspirator had warned him (Rana) that the Mumbai attacks were imminent. Contrary to Rana’s claim, the co-conspirator’s warning does not suggest that he was unaware of the upcoming attacks,” the US attorney argued.

    Instead, it merely suggests that Rana was not aware of the date of the attack, which is consistent with the fact that Headley had informed Rana earlier that the attack plans were being delayed.

    Estrada said that Rana’s claim that he did not review Headley’s visa application is not supported by the evidence.

    “Rana does not dispute that Headley’s visa applications contain false information; rather, he claims that it is ‘unlikely that (he) checked (the applications) for accuracy’ because he would have corrected a statement indicating that Headley worked for ‘First World Immigration’, instead of ‘Immigrant Law Centre’,” he said. “While ‘Immigration Law Centre’ is a ‘DBA for Raymond J. Sanders,’ Rana’s business partner, that business and ‘First World Immigration’ shared the same address and telephone number. Significantly, India issued Headley a business visa, even though he wrote, ‘First World Immigration’ on his 2006 visa application and the accompanying support letter from Mr Sanders referred to the employing entity as ‘Immigration Law Centre’.” Thus, Rana’s claim does not undermine probable cause and is not persuasive, the US attorney said.

    India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) is probing Rana’s role in the 26/11 attacks carried out by terrorists of Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. The NIA has said that it is ready to initiate proceedings to bring him to India through diplomatic channels.

    A total of 166 people, including six Americans, were killed in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks in which 10 Pakistani terrorists laid a more than 60-hour siege, attacking and killing people at iconic and vital locations of Mumbai.

  • Silicon Valley-based startup raise USD 10 million to expand its manufacturing base in India, launch disruptive 5G and automotive solutions

    Silicon Valley-based startup raise USD 10 million to expand its manufacturing base in India, launch disruptive 5G and automotive solutions

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): A Silicon Valley-based startup co-founded by Indian Americans has raised USD 10 million to expand its manufacturing base in India and launch disruptive 5G and automotive solutions for its global customer base, it was announced on Wednesday. Co-founded in 2017 by John Mathew, Ajit Thomas, Tarun Thomas George, and Akhil A Zeeb, Cavli Wireless designs and manufactures cellular modules in 4G and 5G technologies with integrated eSIM and global connectivity.

    This Series A funding led by Chiratae Ventures and Qualcomm Ventures in addition to major US technology conglomerates, will enable Cavli to strengthen its position in the global IoT market by expanding its product portfolio, enhancing R&D capabilities, and growing its international presence, said Mathew, CEO of Cavli Wireless. Cavli plans to invest in cutting-edge technologies, such as 5G with edge processing capabilities, to address the automotive and industrial sectors globally, Mathew said.

    “With our platform solution Cavli Hubble tightly integrated with our hardware portfolio, we are pretty confident that Silicon to Cloud integration in its true sense is now a reality,” Mathew said.

    Cavli Wireless has demonstrated a strong commitment to innovation and customer success, positioning the company as a leader in the intersection of Mobility & IoT space, TCM Sundaram, founder and vice chairman of Chiratae Ventures said.

    “We are excited to support Cavli’s vision and believe their unparalleled IoT connectivity expertise will enable them to become an indispensable partner for businesses worldwide,” he said. Cavli said this investment comes at a time when the global Internet of Things (IoT) market is experiencing rapid growth, with the number of connected devices projected to surpass 30 billion by 2025.

  • Indian American store clerk Mandeep Singh shot dead in Georgia by teens

    Indian American store clerk Mandeep Singh shot dead in Georgia by teens

    AUGUSTA, GA (TIP):  An Indian American convenience store clerk died on the spot after being shot by two 15-year-old boys in what appeared to be a case of armed robbery according to police. Two teenagers have been taken into custody after the shooting.
    Mandeep Singh, 36, of Rosier Road in Augusta, GA, was pronounced dead at the scene after being struck twice by gunfire on June 28 at Wrens Food Mart, also known as Jackie’s, located at 504 Highway 80 in East Wrens, according to local media reports.
    Ricky, as Singh was known as, had been working at the store for less than one month, the Augusta Chronicle reported citing Wrens Police Chief John Maynard. The two juveniles entered the store around 8:35 pm Wednesday evening.

    “It appeared to be an armed robbery to start with, and at some point shots were fired and the clerk was deceased,” Maynard said. The store had security cameras and Maynard said that juveniles were not wearing masks or obscuring their faces during the incident, which made it easy for the police to identify them.
    “They walked in, maybe five seconds was spent looking at a shelf. It was clear what they came to do,” Maynard said. “Within two hours we had them identified. Within four hours we had the first suspect picked up. And in just over eight hours we had both of them in custody.” “That rarely happens, but I think our citizens are sending a clear message that they are tired of this. We are following up on other leads as to why this took place,” Maynard said.
    Due to the age of the offenders, names and photos cannot be released at this time, Wrens Police said. The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Singh’s body was being transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation crime lab.
    Meanwhile, Singh’s wife Dimple Kaur has organized a fundraiser on GoFundMe to help his family deal with this tragedy. To date $20,940 has been raised of $200,000 goal.
    “Hi, I am Dimple and I am fundraising for the family of Ricky (Mandeep) Singh. Just recently. Ricky was brutally killed in a tragic and horrible situation which left everyone devastated.
    “This situation was hard on his family members especially his wife and mother as he was their sole support. As his family member, Ricky was a great person, always there to help everyone no matter what. He was a genuine soul with an unforgettable personality,” she wrote. “We are requesting donations to help his family deal with this tragedy. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, can make a significant difference in helping the family cope with expenses, such as funeral costs and ongoing living expenses.
    “Together, we can offer support and solidarity to Ricky Singh’s family, providing them with the strength they need to navigate this tragic loss,” Kaur wrote.

  • Dalai Lama’s kindness and humility serve as an inspiration to many around the world: Blinken

    Dalai Lama’s kindness and humility serve as an inspiration to many around the world: Blinken

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The Dalai Lama’s kindness and humility serve as an inspiration to many around the world, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Thursday, July 6, as he greeted the India-based Tibetan spiritual leader on his 88th birthday.

    Blinken also said the United States is unwavering in its commitment to support the linguistic, cultural, and religious identity of Tibetans, including the ability to freely choose and venerate their religious leaders without interference.

    “I extend my warmest wishes to His Holiness the Dalai Lama on the occasion of his 88th birthday, an auspicious day for the Tibetan community,” he said. “His Holiness’s kindness and humility serve as an inspiration to many around the world, and I have deep admiration for his ongoing commitment to peace and nonviolence,” Blinken said in a statement.

    The 14th Dalai Lama fled to India in 1959 following a Chinese crackdown on an uprising by the local population in Tibet. India granted him political asylum and the Tibetan government-in-exile has been based in Dharamsala in Himachal Pradesh since then.

    “Today, may we reflect on his messages of compassion and tolerance as we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the human rights of all people, including those of the Tibetan community,” the top US diplomat said in a statement. China has in the past accused the Dalai Lama of indulging in “separatist” activities and trying to split Tibet and considers him a divisive figure.

    However, the Tibetan spiritual leader has insisted that he is not seeking independence but “genuine autonomy” for all Tibetans.

  • Indian American attorney indicted for defrauding clients

    Indian American attorney indicted for defrauding clients

    BOSTON (TIP): An Indian American attorney who once ran for a seat in the US House of Representatives has been indicted by a federal jury in Boston for defrauding clients of more than $5 million in escrow funds.
    Abhijit “Beej” Das, 50, was arrested last week in connection with a scheme to defraud a business-to-business supply company based in India of millions of dollars, and using client funds for business and personal expenses, including the purchase of a $2.7 million home in Florida. A former candidate for the US House of Representatives in the third Congressional district of Massachusetts, Das was indicted on 10 counts of wire fraud. He was on pretrial release for charges of federal Campaign Act violations and making false statements in 2021. According to a Justice Department press statement, Das was the principal manager of a boutique law and advisory firm called Troca Global Advisors with offices in Boston and New York.
    Beginning in or about May 2020, Das began providing legal representation and escrow services to two twin brothers and their logistical supply company in India that was coordinating large shipments of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) during the pandemic.
    The indictment alleged that Das diverted more than $5 million in escrow funds from his clients’ accounts to other accounts and used the funds for personal expenses.
    This included expenses for his law firm, a yacht owned by one of his hotels, as well as $2.7 million for his Boca Raton home in Florida.
    He allegedly induced his clients to transfer funds to accounts he controlled in multi-step, layered transactions under the guise of legal advice about the risk of potential litigation and provided clients with fraudulent and forged account statements to conceal the scheme.
    The indictment also alleged that Das committed nine of the 10 counts of wire fraud while the court mandated pretrial release conditions resulting from his June 2021 indictment.
    That earlier indictment charged Das with campaign finance violations, embezzlement of campaign funds and making materially false statements to the Federal Election Commission.
    The charges of wire fraud each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater.

  • Indian American gynecologist and oncologist Dr. Uma Mysorekar gets Interfaith Center of New York’s 2023 award

    Indian American gynecologist and oncologist Dr. Uma Mysorekar gets Interfaith Center of New York’s 2023 award

    NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. Uma V. Mysorekar, an Indian American gynecologist and oncologist hailing from Bengaluru, Karnataka has received the Interfaith Center of New York’s 2023 James Parks Morton Interfaith Award.
    Named in tribute of The Interfaith Center of New York’s founder, the award recognizes individuals or organizations that exemplify an outstanding commitment to promoting human development and peace. Other recipients of the award are Rabbi Sharon Kleinbaum and Joshua Seftel and the creative team behind the documentary short film Stranger at the Gate. Mysorekar, a medical graduate from Bombay University, migrated to the USA and has been a successful gynecologist and oncologist since 1970, according to a press release.
    Mysorekar has, in addition to her medical profession, been associated with several social and cultural organizations – As a Committee Member, Vice President and President of Heart & Head of the Handicapped (HHH) she was responsible for organizing events and fund-raising efforts for the handicapped children in New York and in India.
    Mysorekar was invited by both former President Bill Clinton and former President George Bush to represent Hinduism at Interfaith Conference sponsored by the White House. She has been a leading fundraiser and donor for care of impoverished women and for the disabled and orphaned in India, having pioneered the fundraising for “Aid to Disabled, Orphaned and Poor” (ADOP) and contributed substantially towards the construction of a hostel for poor working women in Bengaluru in India.
    In the US, under the auspices of the Hindu Temple Society of North America, she devised various projects to address the psychological and emotional concerns of Indian youth, growing up under the influence of dual cultures.
    Mysorekar was one of the few high-profile Asians chosen as the representative of 1.8 million Hindus of the continent at a special interreligious gathering to meet Pope Benedict XVI on April 17, 2008.
    She had an audience with Pope Benedict during this visit. Later that year, she was one of the six representatives of various faiths chosen to participate in the National Prayer Service in Washington following the inauguration of President Barrack Obama.
    As the first person chosen to represent the Hindu religion for the National Prayer Service, Mysorekar was also invited to have an audience with the new President. Mysorekar later participated in Interreligious meeting with Pope Francis and offered Hindu prayer in New York on Sep 25, 2015. Mysorekar has been the recipient of the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor for 2009 and was featured in the prestigious publication “The Women who made New York” authored by New York Times columnist Julie Scelfo, who recognized Mysorekar’s service to the community, her role in organizing interfaith dialogues reaching out to leaders of other faiths, and her fundraising capability for common causes and elder care.

  • Broadway Deity André De Shields and Other Luminaries Honored at Flushing Town Hall’s Gala on June 15

    Broadway Deity André De Shields and Other Luminaries Honored at Flushing Town Hall’s Gala on June 15

    De Shields was honored alongside Wayne Ho, President & CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council, and Mukund Padmanabhan, Founder of the Guru Krupa Foundation

    FLUSHING, NY (TIP): Flushing Town Hall, on June 15, held its annual gala, Around the World & Home Again. The gala celebrated the Smithsonian Affiliate’s mission to bring people together through arts and culture from around the globe. This year, the gala honored Broadway Deity André De Shields, President and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC) Wayne Ho, and Founder of the Guru Krupa Foundation Mukund Padmanabhan. Veronica Y. Tsang was the presenting sponsor for this year’s gala. As the nonprofit’s main benefit event of the year, the funds raised at the gala are critical for Flushing Town Hall to achieve its mission. “We are an arts presenter as well as an Arts Council, with a crucial mission to bring people together by presenting arts and culture from all around the globe,” said Flushing Town Hall Executive & Artistic Director Ellen Kodadek. “We serve one of the most diverse communities in the world with culturally relevant programs featuring master culture and tradition bearers. We strive to uphold the legacy of inclusiveness that has defined our community since the Flushing remonstrance of 1657.”

    In attendance were Elaine Fan, a representative of New York Governor Kathy Hochul, Senator John Liu, Queens Borough President Donovan Richards, New York State Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, New York State Assemblyman David Weprin, New York City Councilwoman Sandra Ung, and New York City Department of Cultural Affairs Commissioner Laurie Cumbo.

    As the 150 attendees arrived, they were greeted by the musical offerings of the HONK Family Band. The collection performed a medley of instrumental covers from bands such as Nirvana and Talking Heads, as well as original compositions.

    Honoree André De Shields said, “The shifting cultural paradigm calls for every artist to advocate for Foundational Democracy–the doing of the greatest good for the greatest number of people. During the month of February in both 2021 and 2022, Flushing Town Hall provided the forum for my demonstrating the intersection of art and activism by inviting me to perform my tribute to Frederick Douglass–Mine Eyes Have Seen the Glory–in commemoration of Black Heritage Month. Accepting the Award for Life Achievement and serenading the audience with song are my expressions of immense gratitude.”

    The second honoree was Wayne Ho, President and CEO of the Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC), who said, “I am very thankful for this recognition from Flushing Town Hall because, like CPC, Flushing Town Hall has been an institution not only in the Flushing community but, also serving all of Queens and serving all of New York City.” The final honoree was Mukund Padmanabhan, the founder of the Guru Krupa Foundation, who said, “I just like the idea of this place…[Flushing Town Hall] is the one place I can come to, and I don’t need to come very far, where I can experience music from all over the world.”

    About Flushing Town Hall

    Flushing Town Hall is a not-for-profit organization and receives major support from the National Endowment for the Arts; New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature; New York State Assembly Member Ron Kim; The City of New York, Mayor Eric Adams; New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Commissioner Laurie Cumbo; Queens Borough President Donovan Richards; The New York City Council, Speaker Adrienne E. Adams, and New York City Council Members Sandra Ung, Tiffany Caban, Shekar Krishnan, Linda Lee, Vickie Paladino, Lynn Schulman, and Jessica Won; Howard Gilman Foundation, Guru Krupa Foundation, Fan Fox and Leslie R. Samuels Foundation.

    Flushing Town Hall (FTH), a Smithsonian affiliate, presents multi-disciplinary global arts that engage and educate the global communities of Queens and New York City in order to foster mutual appreciation. As advocates of arts equity since 1979, we support local, immigrant, national, and international artists, developing partnerships and collaborations that enhance our efforts. As a member of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group (CIG), we serve to restore, manage and program the historic 1862 landmark on behalf of the City of New York. FTH celebrates the history of Queens as the home of Jazz by presenting the finest in Jazz performance. We are committed to arts education and hands-on learning for the arts-curious, arts enthusiasts, and professional artists. We serve one of the most diverse communities in the world and strive to uphold the legacy of inclusiveness that has defined our community since the Flushing Remonstrance of 1657.

    Flushing Town Hall is a proud member of the Cultural Institutions Group (CIG), a collective of 34 nonprofit museums, performing arts centers, historical societies, zoos, and botanical gardens across all five boroughs with a distinct private-public partnership with the City of New York and a commitment to serving all New Yorkers.

  • DR. MACHELLE ALLEN RECOGNIZED BY MODERN HEALTHCARE AS ONE OF THE YEAR’S ‘50 MOST INFLUENTIAL CLINICAL EXECUTIVES’

    DR. MACHELLE ALLEN RECOGNIZED BY MODERN HEALTHCARE AS ONE OF THE YEAR’S ‘50 MOST INFLUENTIAL CLINICAL EXECUTIVES’

    NEW YORK (TIP): NYC Health + Hospitals , on June 30th, announced that Senior Vice President (SVP) and Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr. Machelle Allen is among the honorees in this year’s list of ’50 Most Influential Clinical Executives’ by Modern Healthcare. These leaders were chosen by the prominent health care industry publication for their innovative recruitment strategies, bold expansion maneuvers, and their ongoing commitment to advocacy. Dr. Allen is recognized for her service to vulnerable New Yorkers. Early in her career, she treated pregnant patients with substance use disorder and those who were at risk for HIV infection. As SVP and CMO, Dr. Allen established the Office of Clinical Operations, which instituted surveillance of the health system’s wastewater to detect emerging infections. She also created a systemwide Office of Women’s Health Services. Under this effort, the NYC Health + Hospitals Maternal Home was “birthed” – one of the few in New York State. She recently joined Mayor Eric Adams to outline his vision for the future of women’s health in New York City.

    “I am so proud to represent a health system that provides high-quality, comprehensive care to New York City’s most vulnerable populations. We must never forget that health care is a basic human right. It is our duty to create spaces where anyone – no matter their race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, immigration status, or ability to pay – can access services that are vital to their well-being and that of their families. I also want to thank my amazing colleagues for nominating me. I am humbled and grateful for your trust in me and for the work that you do so selflessly. Thank you to Modern Healthcare for including me on this esteemed list of health care leaders,” said NYC Health + Hospitals Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer Machelle Allen, MD.

    In response to the mental health crisis in New York City, the Office of Behavioral Health under Dr. Allen’s leadership launched B-HEARD (Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division) in 2021, which deploys social workers along with EMS personnel as first responders, in lieu of police officers.
    Dr. Allen is a veteran of the municipal health care system: She completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi, worked as an attending physician at Harlem and Bellevue hospitals, and served as the Associate Medical Director at Bellevue until 2013 when she became the System’s Deputy CMO. Dr. Allen was promoted to SVP and CMO in 2017.
    Dr. Allen is a graduate of Cornell University and the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine.
    About NYC Health + Hospitals
    NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest municipal health care system in the nation serving more than a million New Yorkers annually in more than 70 patient care locations across the city’s five boroughs. A robust network of outpatient, neighborhood-based primary and specialty care centers anchors care coordination with the system’s trauma centers, nursing homes, post-acute care centers, home care agency, and MetroPlus health plan—all supported by 11 essential hospitals. Its diverse workforce of more than 43,000 employees is uniquely focused on empowering New Yorkers, without exception, to live the healthiest life possible. For more information, visit www.nychealthandhospitals.org and stay connected on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/NYCHealthandHospitals or Twitter at @NYCHealthSystem.

  • Legislator Mulé, Baldwin Civic Association, Ridgewood Savings Bank Celebrate Summer at Silver Lake Park with ‘Music in the Park’

    Legislator Mulé, Baldwin Civic Association, Ridgewood Savings Bank Celebrate Summer at Silver Lake Park with ‘Music in the Park’

    People enjoying in the park (Photos : Office of Legislator Debra Mulé)

    BALDWIN, N.Y. (TIP): – To celebrate the start of summer, Nassau County Legislator Debra Mulé (D – Freeport) recently partnered with the Baldwin Civic Association and Ridgewood Savings Bank to present “Music in the Park” at Silver Lake Park. Attendees enjoyed performances by musicians Stuart Markus and Gerry McKeveny at the recently renovated park.

    Legislator Mulé shepherded a more than $2.6-million overhaul of Silver Lake Park to its recent completion; the project encompassed elevating the Park’s perimeter walkway, installing tide gates on Silver Lake’s outfalls, installing a stormwater treatment device between Lofts Pond and the natural channel of Parsonage Creek, and providing a fish passage to Caroline’s Pond. The lion’s share of funding for these improvements were provided by New York State through Governor’s Office of Storm Recovery (GOSR) grants. “Summertime is the perfect time to enjoy live performances in the park and gather with our neighbors to share our love of music,” Legislator Mulé said. “Thank you to the Baldwin Civic Association and Ridgewood Savings Bank for helping to make this event such a success. We look forward to having more concerts and community gatherings in Baldwin’s beautiful and newly renovated Silver Lake Park!”

  • NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS PHYSICIANS RECOGNIZED BY CASTLE CONNOLLY AS ‘2023 TOP LGBTQ+ DOCTORS’

    NYC HEALTH + HOSPITALS PHYSICIANS RECOGNIZED BY CASTLE CONNOLLY AS ‘2023 TOP LGBTQ+ DOCTORS’

    NEW YORK (TIP):  NYC Health + Hospitals, on June 30,  announced that five of its physicians were among 64 providers across 22 states and 34 specialties named to Castle Connolly’s inaugural list of ‘Top LGBTQ+ Doctors’ for their outstanding expertise, patient care, and contributions to the field of health care. The physicians who made the list were all nominated by their peers and then evaluated for criteria including professional reputation, hospital appointments, and education. Castle Connolly is a health care directory that helps patients find providers. Their ‘Top LGBTQ+ Doctor’ distinction, in partnership with GLMA: Health Professionals Advancing LGBTQ+ Equality, is part of their efforts to make it easier for people to find providers who have shared backgrounds and experiences. The five honorees from NYC Health + Hospitals are:

    Gregory L. Almond, MD

    Chair of Emergency Medicine

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan

    Richard E. Greene, MD

    Co-Founder, Pride Health Center

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue

    Margaret Kemeny, MD

    Director, Queens Cancer Center

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens

    Robert A. Pitts, MD

    Co-Founder, Pride Health Center and Infectious Disease Specialist

    NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue

    Warren M. Seigel, MD

    Chair of Pediatric and Director of Adolescent Medicine

    NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health (formerly Coney Island)

    Dr. Almond oversees the Emergency Department at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan, a full-service community hospital located in East Harlem. He’s been a member of the NYC Health + Hospitals family for over 20 years, completing his residency at Harlem and Metropolitan hospitals through their affiliation with the New York Medical College. Dr. Almond is now an Associate Professor of Clinical Emergency Medicine at his alma mater.

    “I am truly grateful to Castle Connolly for acknowledging the immense hurdles that LGBTQ+ individuals often face in achieving success in their respective fields. I feel incredibly fortunate to have never felt held back during my thirty plus years at NYC Health + Hospitals/Metropolitan or New York Medical College,” said Dr. Almond. “As an LGBTQ+ staff member, I hope that I have been able to serve as a positive role model for others who may be experiencing challenges. Working as an academic administrative physician at this wonderful teaching hospital, I am proud that my students and residents that rotate through our Emergency Department are respectful to all regardless of any lifestyle or other differences. Thank you again for this recognition.”

    Dr. Greene is the Director of LGBTQ+ Clinical Services at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue. He’s also an Associate Program Director for the Primary Care Residency Program and a Professor of Medicine at NYU Grossman School of Medicine.

    “What a thrill to be chosen as one of the first LGBTQ+ doctors recognized by Castle Connolly and GLMA,” said Dr. Greene. “This distinction will make it easier for the LGBTQ+ community to find providers and access care that fits their needs.”

    Dr. Kemeny has been the Director of the Queens Cancer Center at NYC Health + Hospitals/Queens since 2001. She’s also one of the first female surgical oncologists in the U.S. Her career is distinguished by years of innovative clinical and laboratory research and by a technique she developed for treating patients with metastatic cancer in the liver, involving administering chemotherapy to patients through a pump delivered into the main artery of the organ.

    “I am deeply honored to be recognized as a top LGBTQ+ physician by Castle Connolly,” said Dr. Kemeny. “The fact is that we are now living through exceedingly difficult times for many in the LGBTQ+ community, and quality, compassionate healthcare is something every human being is entitled to. The Queens Cancer Center sees an enormously diverse patient population, and it is a place where we make everyone feel welcome and valued. I appreciate Castle Connolly’s acknowledgment of the important work I and many other physicians are doing for members of this community.”

    Dr. Pitts is the Medical Director for the Pride Health Center at NYC Health + Hospitals/Bellevue, responsible for the care of over four hundred patients, delivering comprehensive gender-affirming services for New Yorkers. He is the co-investigator of a newly launched initiative called “EquiPrEP”, which is centered around equity to address social determinants of health while simultaneously rolling out long-acting injectable PrEP among priority populations vulnerable for HIV infection. Dr. Pitts is a founding member on the NYC Health + Hospitals Pride Council, responsible for maintaining excellent gender-affirming care across the health system.

    “Providing gender-affirming equitable care is one of the great joys of my life, personally and professionally,” said Dr. Pitts. “As a queer doctor in the largest municipal health care system in the United States, it’s an incredible honor to be recognized by Castle Connolly and GLMA as a LGBTQ+ Top Doctor.”

    Dr. Seigel not only runs pediatrics and adolescent medicine at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health, he also serves as the Chair of the New York State chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Seigel has been caring for Brooklyn’s youngest residents for over 30 years and is now training the next generation of pediatricians studying at the SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University.

    “Named as a Top LGBTQ+ Doctor on Castle Connolly’s Top Doctors list, is indeed an honor,” said Dr. Seigel. “Ensuring that our LGBTQ+ pediatric and adolescent patients have a sense of belonging when receiving care at NYC Health + Hospitals/South Brooklyn Health is one of my top priorities as provider.”

    About NYC Health + Hospitals

    NYC Health + Hospitals is the largest municipal health care system in the nation serving more than a million New Yorkers annually in more than 70 patient care locations across the city’s five boroughs. A robust network of outpatient, neighborhood-based primary and specialty care centers anchors care coordination with the system’s trauma centers, nursing homes, post-acute care centers, home care agency, and MetroPlus health plan—all supported by 11 essential hospitals. Its diverse workforce of more than 43,000 employees is uniquely focused on empowering New Yorkers, without exception, to live the healthiest life possible. For more information, visit www.nychealthandhospitals.org and stay connected on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.

  • Ken Mathew sworn in as the first Indian American Mayor of Stafford

    Ken Mathew sworn in as the first Indian American Mayor of Stafford

    DALLAS (TIP):  Kerala native Ken Mathew has made history as the first Indian American and the first person of color to be sworn in as the Mayor of Stafford, a small seven-square-mile city in Texas.

    In a standing-room-only special meeting on June 20, Mathew, surrounded by his family members, was sworn in by Missouri City Mayor Robin Elackatt, also an Indian American, the Fort Bend Star reported.

    In the audience was a veritable who’s-who of Fort Bend County officials past and present, including Fort Bend County Judge KP George, another Indian American and Texas Rep. Suleman Lulani, among others.

    Mathew, who defeated the incumbent mayor, Cecil Willis, by 16 votes in a run-off election on June 10, leads a virtually brand-new City Council after this year’s municipal election saw the election of four new members, according to the media reports.

    “I am very much humbled by your selection of me as your mayor,” Mathew said. “This is a historical event.”

    Mathews, who is a Christian, noted that on the same day that he was being sworn in, his co-religionists in his home country of India were marking the holiday known as “The Procession of Saints.”

    “I am so glad to have taken the oath of office on this day,” he was quoted as saying.

    Mathews, a retired financial professional, said the “lifeline of this city,” known for decades for its disavowal of a property tax, is the sales tax. Approximately 60 percent of Stafford’s revenues are derived from the sales tax from retail establishments, he noted. He said the City Council’s responsibility was to pursue policies that would enhance and attract new retail business to the city.

    “It is not impossible, but it will not be easy,’ he said. “And that is where I will be – pursuing and pushing. And I need all of the support of the Council to move forward so we can do better financially. It will not be easy.’

    Mathews advocated enhancing the area known as “The Island” along the city’s major business thoroughfares. “Let us have a frank discussion, and we will move accordingly and make this great city of Stafford greater,” he said.

    Fort Bend County Judge George tweeted,” Congratulations to Stafford Mayor-elect Ken Mathew! It was an absolute pleasure to attend his swearing-in ceremony this evening. Wishing him all the best as he embarks on this important role.” Mathew served on Stafford Council since first being elected in 2006 and served on the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission for several years before then. He immigrated to the US in the 1970s after earning a degree from the University of Bombay.

    With an MBA from the University of Detroit, Mathew worked as an accountant and financial executive for several corporations, including Toshiba in the Houston area. He has lived in Stafford since 1982.

  • Guru Nanak Dev Global University of Dallas Appoints Members of Advisory Board

    DALLAS (TIP): Guru Nanak Dev Global University (GNDGU) has announced  the appointment of four distinguished individuals to its esteemed Advisory Board. Dr. Daljit Singh, Dr. Jagbir Singh, Paramjit Singh, and Prabhjot Singh will bring their wealth of expertise and experience to enhance GNDGU’s commitment to academic excellence, sports, and journalism collaboration.

    Dr. Daljit Singh is an eminent academician, administrator, and renowned law specialist. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, he has made significant contributions to the field of legal education and administration. Dr. Singh’s experience includes serving as the founder Director of the Army Institute of Law, Patiala, and as a Professor and founder Head of the School of Legal Studies, Former Vice Chancellor of Rayat Bahra University. His visionary leadership and commitment to education will be invaluable to GNDGU.

    Dr. Jagbir Singh is a distinguished scholar and educator with a remarkable career in Punjabi literature and religious studies. Currently serving as the Chancellor of Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, he has made significant contributions to academia throughout his illustrious journey. Dr. Jagbir Singh’s deep knowledge and scholarly background will enrich the academic initiatives at GNDGU.

    Paramjit Singh, a trailblazing coach from Faridkot, Punjab, has transformed the Gwalior Women Hockey Academy into a powerhouse of talent and significantly contributed to the growth of women’s hockey in India. With over 25 years of experience, his coaching expertise has nurtured numerous players who have represented India in international competitions. Paramjit’s valuable insights and passion for sports will greatly enhance GNDGU’s sports programs.

    Prabhjot Singh, a highly accomplished journalist, brings his extensive experience spanning four decades to the Advisory Board. His outstanding work in investigative journalism, environment and business reporting, sports coverage, and feature writing has earned him accolades. Prabhjot Singh’s journalistic expertise and global perspective will contribute to the university’s focus on journalism and media studies. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Daljit Singh, Dr. Jagbir Singh, Paramjit Singh, and Prabhjot Singh to our Advisory Board,” said Dr. Shivinder Singh Gill, Founding Member of Guru Nanak Dev Global University of Dallas. “Their diverse backgrounds, exceptional achievements, and commitment to excellence will significantly strengthen our university’s position as a global leader in education, sports, and journalism. We look forward to their invaluable contributions and guidance in shaping the future of Guru Nanak Dev Global University.”

    With the addition of these accomplished individuals to the Advisory Board, Guru Nanak Dev Global University reinforces its commitment to fostering collaboration between academia, sports, and journalism, providing students with a holistic educational experience that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.

    About Guru Nanak Dev Global University:

    Guru Nanak Dev Global University (GNDGU) of Dallas is a prestigious educational institution founded with the vision to provide holistic education, promote research and innovation, and nurture the values of compassion, equality, and social responsibility based on Guru Nanak Dev’s teachings. The university strives to become a global leader in education, research, and positive social impact. By aligning its mission goals with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, GNDGU actively contributes to the achievement of these global objectives. By 2035, we strive to establish five world-class centers of excellence that prepare students to become enlightened global citizens, actively contributing to society.  For more information, please visit www.gndgu.com

     

  • Texas House Democratic Caucus on Second Special Legislative Session: Tax Cuts Should Not Be Hard

    Texas House Democratic Caucus on Second Special Legislative Session: Tax Cuts Should Not Be Hard

    AUSTIN, TX (TIP): The Texas House convened for the second special session of the 88th Legislative Session on June 28,, 2023.

    Rep. Trey Martinez Fischer (D-San Antonio) issued the following statement:
    “With one party in complete control of the legislative process and an unprecedented amount of money in our state treasury generated by working Texans, it’s unimaginable that Republican leadership can’t come together to cut property taxes for Texas families.

    “Tax cuts are not hard, and the solutions are well within our reach. What is lacking is the determination to enact meaningful tax policies that would provide much-needed relief to working families. From day one, Texas House Democrats have consistently championed proposals that increase the homestead exemption and have recently advocated for tying these exemptions to a cap on escalating property values. The time has come to stop squandering the people’s tax dollars on special sessions and immediately pass a tax cut policy that delivers the maximum savings to taxpayers. “Nevertheless, if the Governor is intent on forcing us into yet another special session, let us put aside politics and focus our attention on what Texans rightfully expect: a high-quality public education system that invests in our children. Looking at the State Budget, you wouldn’t realize that we have a record amount of money—nearly $33 billion in our checking and $25 billion in our savings. And in this time of prosperity, the State Budget does not dedicate a penny to raising salaries for teachers or funding our schools to catch up with crippling inflation. This budget has billions of dollars for boardrooms but little for classrooms. “So, what happened? At every step, the Governor and the Lt. Governor have been stopped in their efforts to ram through their extremist agenda to pass private school vouchers. In turn, they have taken funding for our teachers and our children hostage. The objective is clear: defund and destroy our public schools. “Our message to the Governor is clear: unless the Legislature acts and acts now before students return in the Fall: more teachers will leave the classroom, more children will be left without qualified educators, and more schools will be left neglected to the dismay of the thousands of families looking to start a new life in our state.”

  • 5G wireless signals likely to disrupt flights starting this weekend

    5G wireless signals likely to disrupt flights starting this weekend

    The airline plans to route the 190 planes carefully to limit the risk of cancelling flights or forcing planes to divert away from airports where visibility is low

    WASHINGTON, D.C.(TIP): Airline passengers who have endured tens of thousands of weather-related flight delays this week could face a new source of disruptions starting Saturday, July 1, when wireless providers are expected to power up new 5G systems near major airports, an AP report says. Aviation groups have warned for years that 5G signals could interfere with aircraft equipment, especially devices using radio waves to measure distance above the ground and which are critical when planes land in low visibility.

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    Predictions that interference would cause massive flight groundings failed to come true last year, when telecom companies began rolling out the new service. They then agreed to limit the power of the signals around busy airports, giving airlines an extra year to upgrade their planes. The leader of the nation’s largest pilots’ union said crews will be able to handle the impact of 5G, but he criticized the way the wireless licenses were granted, saying it had added unnecessary risk to aviation.

    Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg recently told airlines that flights could be disrupted because a small portion of the nation’s fleet has not been upgraded to protect against radio interference.

    Most of the major US airlines say they are ready. American, Southwest, Alaska, Frontier and United say all of their planes have height-measuring devices, called radio altimeters, that are protected against 5G interference.

    The big exception is Delta Air Lines. Delta says it has 190 planes, which include most of its smaller ones, that still lack upgraded altimeters because its supplier has been unable to provide them fast enough.

    The airline does not expect to cancel any flights because of the issue, Delta said Friday.

    The airline plans to route the 190 planes carefully to limit the risk of cancelling flights or forcing planes to divert away from airports where visibility is low because of fog or low clouds. The Delta planes that have not been retrofitted include several models of Airbus jets: all of its A220s, most of its A319s and A320s and some of its A321s.

    The airline’s Boeing jets have upgraded altimeters, as do all Delta Connection planes, which are operated by Endeavor Air, Republic Airways and SkyWest Airlines, the airline said.

    JetBlue did not respond to requests for comment but told The Wall Street Journal it expected to retrofit 17 smaller Airbus jets by October, with possible “limited impact” some days in Boston. Wireless carriers including Verizon and AT and T use a part of the radio spectrum called C-Band, which is close to frequencies used by radio altimeters, for their new 5G service.

    The Federal Communications Commission granted them licenses for the C-Band spectrum and dismissed any risk of interference, saying there was ample buffer between C-Band and altimeter frequencies. When the Federal Aviation Administration sided with airlines and objected, the wireless companies pushed back the rollout of their new service. In a compromise brokered by the Biden administration, the wireless carriers then agreed not to power up 5G signals near about 50 busy airports. That postponement ends Saturday. AT and T declined to comment. Verizon did not immediately respond to a question about its plans.

    Buttigieg reminded the head of trade group Airlines for America about the deadline in a letter last week, warning that only planes with retrofitted altimeters would be allowed to land under low-visibility conditions. He said more than 80 per cent of the US fleet had been retrofitted, but a significant number of planes, including many operated by foreign airlines, have not been upgraded.

    “This means on bad-weather, low-visibility days in particular, there could be increased delays and cancellations,” Buttigieg wrote. He said airlines with planes awaiting retrofitting should adjust their schedules to avoid stranding passengers.

    Airlines say the FAA was slow to approve standards for upgrading the radio altimeters and supply-chain problems have made it difficult for manufacturers to produce enough of the devices. Nicholas Calio, head of the Airlines for America, complained about a rush to modify planes “amid pressure from the telecommunications companies.”

    Jason Ambrosi, a Delta pilot and president of the Air Line Pilots Association, accused the FCC of granting 5G licenses without consulting aviation interests, which he said “has left the safest aviation system in the world at increased risk.” But, he said, “Ultimately, we will be able to address the impacts of 5G.”

  • Judge rejects Donald Trump’s request to toss out defamation claims by columnist

    Judge rejects Donald Trump’s request to toss out defamation claims by columnist

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): Former President Donald Trump’s claims that absolute presidential immunity and free speech rights shield him from the defamation claims of a New York columnist were rejected on Thursday, June 29, by a federal judge.

    The writer, E Jean Carroll, can continue to press claims that Trump owes her at least $10 million in damages for comments he made before and after she won a $5 million sexual abuse and defamation verdict against him last month, Judge Lewis A Kaplan said in a written opinion. Trump tried to dismiss the lawsuit on grounds that he is entitled to absolute presidential immunity, his statements were not defamatory and that his statements were opinion protected by free speech rights.

    Kaplan said Trump surrendered absolute presidential immunity as a defense by failing to assert it years ago when the lawsuit was filed. The lawsuit was delayed until recently as appeals courts considered legal issues surrounding it. Trump countersued Carroll this week, claiming that she has libeled him by continuing to insist that he raped her even after a jury found otherwise.

    After a jury returned its verdict last month in Manhattan federal court, Trump made comments on a CNN town hall that prompted Carroll to assert new defamation claims in a 2020 defamation lawsuit.

    The jury award resulted from a sexual abuse and defamation lawsuit filed last November after New York state temporarily enacted a law allowing sexual assault victims to sue for damages resulting from attacks that occurred even decades earlier.

  • U.S. approves sale of ammunition worth $440 million to Taiwan

    U.S. approves sale of ammunition worth $440 million to Taiwan

    WASHINGTON, D.C. (TIP): The United States said on Thursday, June 29, it planned to sell $440 million in ammunition and parts to Taiwan, its latest effort to boost the self-ruling island’s defense.

    The sale is comparatively small in scale and does not expand the range of U.S. weaponry to Taiwan, but comes as the United States and China move delicately to stabilize their turbulent relationship. In a notification to Congress, the State Department said it would sell $332.2 million in 30mm ammunition and related equipment to Taiwan and $108 million in spare and repair parts for wheeled vehicles and weapons. The sales will help Taiwan “maintain a credible defensive capability” but “will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” it said. It “will help improve the security of the recipient and assist in maintaining political stability, military balance and economic progress in the region,” it said.
    Taiwan’s Defense Ministry on Friday, June 30, welcomed the planned sale for “providing the need for enhancing our defense capacity as well as maintaining regional stability,” it said in a tweet.

    The U.S. Congress has the right to reject the sale but such a move is highly unlikely, with lawmakers pushing for the United States to go further and directly provide weapons to Taiwan rather than approving its purchase requests.

    In a decades-long policy, the U.S. sells weapons to Taiwan to ensure its self-defense but only recognizes Beijing.

    China, which claims the self-governing democracy as its own territory and has not ruled out seizing it through force, detests any hint of diplomatic relations between Taiwan and other governments. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reiterated China’s “firm opposition” to Washington supplying weapons to the island. “The United States should… stop creating new causes of military tension in the Taiwan Strait, and stop endangering peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” she told reporters Friday.

    Earlier in June, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken paid a rare visit to Beijing in which his hosts vowed no compromise on Taiwan.

    But the two sides voiced hope at keeping up communication to keep tensions from boiling over.

    Twice in the past year, China has carried out huge military exercises in waters around Taiwan in response to gestures of support by top U.S. lawmakers. On Friday, June 30, Taipei said it detected five Chinese warships and 24 Chinese warplanes around the island, of which 11 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait.

  • MESSAGE- Dr. V.K . Raju

    Dr. V.K . Raju
    President, Eye Foundation of America

    America and India were both British colonies. America got its independence in 1776, and India got its 170+ years later. America the most powerful democracy and India the most populous democracy .
    Both countries are continuously working towards keeping their widely varying citizenship, heading in the same direction successfully. Today conflicts are on the rise everywhere and nuclear arsenals are swelling
    Millions are displaced, international law is disregarded with impunity , as criminal and terrorist networks profit from the division and violence. This is the situation the world finds itself in today .
    The reason for these conflicts is territorial disputes . Regional tensions, high level corruption and dwindling resources due to climate change have also contributed to conflicts.
    Dr Arnold Toynbee ‘s quote is very appropriate today.
    “It is already becoming clear that a chapter which had a western beginning will have to have an Indian ending if it is not to end in the self-destruction of the human race… At this supremely dangerous moment in human history, the only way of salvation for mankind is the Indian way. Emperor Ashoka and Mahatma Gandhi’s principle of nonviolence and Shri Ramakrishna’s testimony to the harmony of religions ; here we have an attitude and spirit that can make it possible for the human race to grow together into a single family —and in atomic Age, this is the only alternative to destroying ourselves .
    What we need is true friendship (MAITRI) between the most powerful democracy and the most populous democracy.

    Both countries are continuously working towards keeping their widely varying citizenship, heading in the same direction successfully.
    Thank you.

  • WHARTON ARTS’ PROGRAMS EMBARK ON INTERNATIONAL TOURS

    WHARTON ARTS’ PROGRAMS EMBARK ON INTERNATIONAL TOURS

    By Mabel Pais

    Wharton Arts, New Jersey’s largest independent non-profit performing arts education center, presents 117 youth musicians from the New Jersey Youth Symphony (NJYS) and New Jersey Youth Chorus (NJYC) travel to Italy and France to perform at world class venues, in formal concerts and community concerts, as well as participating in an exchange with European youth conservatory programs.

    “In our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional performance opportunities for our students, Wharton Arts recognizes the profound impact of international tours,” said Helen H. Cha-Pyo, Artistic Director. “These tours offer our students a transformative experience where they can fully immerse themselves in the richness of foreign cultures, perform at prestigious concert venues, and embark on a journey of personal growth, all while creating unforgettable memories with friends. We are thrilled to embark on an extraordinary tour through the captivating country of Italy, renowned for its historical and vibrant cultural heritage. Additionally, our tribute tour to France in homage to the legendary Michel Legrand presents a one-of-a-kind exclusive opportunity for our young jazz musicians.”

    The NJYS and NJYC tour to Italy, June 27-July 6, features performances in Rome, Florence, Cremona, and Milan. The NJYS led by Conductor Helen H. Cha-Pyo will perform at Rome’s Chiesa Arcangelo San Michele and Chiesa di Sant’Ignazio di Loyola, Florence’s Conservatorio di Musica Luigi Cherubini and Teatro La Pergola, Cremona Solidale, and Milan’s Teatro Dal Verme. The NJYC Coriste and Camerata led by Conductor Patricia Joyce with accompanist Phillip Steffani will perform at Rome’s Basilica di San Pietro and Basilica di Sant’Andrea Della Valle, Florence’s Basilica di Santo Spirito and the Florence American Cemetery, Cremona’s Saint Ilario Church, and Milan’s San Antonio Abate Church and the Duomo di Milano.

    The NJYS Jazz Orchestra tour to France, July 10-17, features performances in Paris at La Bellevilloise Jazz Club and Montmartre’s Pan Piper Jazz Club, and in Nice at Festival Jazz Verdon and La Croix Valmer’s Soirées d’Été of the Festival des Arches D’Azur. The NJYS Jazz Orchestra is led by Director Dion Tucker with guest soloist David Linx.

    TOUR DETAILS

    Follow all of Wharton Arts’ students on tour on Instagram at @newjerseyyouthsymphony, @njyouthchorus, and @njysjazz.

     Wharton Arts

    Wharton Arts’ mission is to offer accessible, high quality performing arts education that sparks personal growth and builds inclusive communities.

    Wharton Arts’ vision is for a transformative performing arts education in an inclusive community to be accessible for everyone.

    Wharton Arts is located in Berkeley Heights, New Providence, and Paterson, NJ and reaches students from 12 counties. All of Wharton Arts’ extraordinary teaching artists, faculty members, and conductors hold degrees in their teaching specialty and have been vetted and trained to enable our students to achieve their personal best.

    (Mabel Pais writes on The Arts and Entertainment, Social Issues, Health & Wellness, Education, Cuisine, Spirituality, and Business)

  • ENJOY MUSIC INDOORS & OUTDOORS AT MORRISTOWN SUMMER CONCERTS

    By Mabel Pais

    The Morristown Performing Arts Center (MPAC) presents an incredible lineup of events this July at the theatre as well as throughout Morristown.  MPAC’s summer concert series takes place, July 11 – 26.

    MPAC INDOOR Events:

    THE DOOBIE BROTHERS

    Tuesday-Wednesday, July 11-12 at 7:30 pm

    For over five decades, The Doobie Brothers have been known for delivering mind-blowing, roots based, harmony-laden, guitar-driven rock and roll – all of which recently culminated in an induction into the 2020 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Their No. 1 singles “Black Water” and “What a Fool Believes” lead a catalog of indelible songs that include: “Listen to the Music,” “China Grove,” “Jesus Is Just All Right,” “Rockin’ Down the Highway,” “Long Train Runnin’,” “Take Me In Your Arms,” “Takin’ it to the Streets,” “Minute by Minute,” “You Belong to Me,” “The Doctor” and more. In all, the Doobies have tallied up five top 10 singles and 16 top 40 hits.

    ANDY GRAMMER: THE NEW MONEY TOUR

    Tuesday, July 18 at 8 pm

    Multiplatinum troubadour Andy Grammer continues to engage, energize and empower audiences with stomping stadium-size pop anthems like the quadruple-platinum “Honey, I’m Good,” platinum singles including “Keep Your Head Up,” “Fine By Me,” “Don’t Give Up On Me,” “Fresh Eyes,” and “Good To Be Alive (Hallelujah),” as well as new songs like “I Need a New Money.”

    DONNY OSMOND

    Thursday, July 20 at 8 pm

    Legendary entertainer and music icon Donny Osmond presents a dynamic musical journey of his unparalleled career that has made him one of the most popular and

    PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO: FUNTASTIC 2023

    Tuesday, July 25 at 7:30 pm

    Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo perform hits such as “We Belong,” “Love is a Battlefield”, “Heartbreaker” and more with their full band.

    HERMAN’S HERMITS starring PETER NOONE and the GRASS ROOTS

    Thursday, July 27 at 7:30 pm

    A double bill of classic 60s pop! Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone scored over twenty Top 40 hits, such as “There’s a Kind of Hush,” “I’m Into Something Good,” and “Mrs. Brown You’ve Got a Lovely Daughter.” The Grass Roots are known for such pop classics as “Midnight Confessions,” “Temptation Eyes” and “Sooner or Later.”

    HERB ALPERT & LANI HALL

    Friday, July 28 at 8 pm

    Herb Alpert with wife Lani Hall. (Photo credit : Mayo Arts)

    Music icon Herb Alpert and Grammy award-winning vocalist Lani Hall perform an eclectic mix of Brazilian jazz, classic Tijuana Brass & Brasil ’66 songs.

    MPAC OUTDOOR Events: Arts in the Community – Free Concerts:

    Wednesday, July 12 at 6 pm

    JOSHUA VAN NESS

    Location: Vail Mansion Plaza

    Singer songwriter Joshua Van Ness is both the working man’s musician and a true indie spirit whose music echoes the classics from decades ago, yet is driven by a desire to stay ahead of the trends.

    Wednesday, July 26 at 6 pm

    SALSA UNDER THE STARS featuring DAVID CEDENO and HIS ORCHESTRA

    Location: Pioneer Park

    Salsa Group: (performance ‘Under the Stars’).(Photo credit : Mayo Arts)

    MPAC’s popular salsa dancing event returns! Dance the night away with the spirited sounds of salsa, merengue and more from David Cedeno and His Orchestra.

    The Mayo Performing Arts Center (MPAC)

    MPAC presents a wide range of programs that entertain, enrich, and educate the diverse population of the region and enhance the economic vitality of Northern New Jersey. The Mayo Performing Arts Center was named 2016 Outstanding Historic Theatre by the League of Historic American Theatres, and is ranked in the top 50 mid-sized performing arts centers by Pollstar Magazine.

    Connect with MPAC:

    The Mayo Performing Arts Center

    100 South St., Morristown, NJ 07960

    box office (973) 539-8008

    Website:   mayoarts.org

    Facebook: facebook.com/MayoPerformingArtsCenter

  • Eye Foundation of America

    Eye Foundation of America

    Newsletter : EFA May 2023 Trip

    A successful and surprising trip to India

    Dr. V.K. Raju
    Founder & President,
    Eye Foundation of America

    During our recent trip to India, we made significant progress in finalizing plans for the Green Goutami Building in Rajahmundry. We submitted the final paperwork, ensuring that all minor changes requested (multiple times) by the corporation were addressed. The corporation had software problems which caused a slowdown of progress, but it is all being worked out. We also had underground water issues which has also been resolved.

    Education and expansion
    In the second week of our trip, Dr. VK Raju had the honor of being invited to Cochin (Kochi), state of Kerala, India, where he was a keynote speaker for the Young Ophthalmologist Society of India (YOSI) at the All Indian Ophthalmology Society. It was wonderful to meet a smart, eager, and enthusiastic group who want to participate in a world without childhood blindness.

    Additionally, we are currently in the process of finalizing paperwork for the two ophthalmologist exchange programs in which we participate annually, with Rotary International and the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

    YOSI group photo with Dr. VK Raju as keynote speaker.

    Collaborating with other Eye Institutes
    VK travelled to Chitrakoot (part in Madhya Pradesh and part in Uttar Pradesh) as he was invited by Sadguru Netralaya, one of the biggest eye care systems.  It is an extraordinary eye-care system, and they are looking for EFA’s leadership for research, training, and teaching. (Board members Sam Maddali and Sekhar Vemparala have agreed to travel with VK to Chitrakoot in the near future.)

    Ophthalmology Institute of Sadguru Netra Chikitsalaya

    A surprising event
    VK was approached by Machilipatnam (A.P) group with an opportunity for a new project. We already have a peripheral center for screening only. About 130 miles away from the current Eye Hospital, EFA/Goutami will build a new hospital building, entirely supported by local philanthropy.

    New preliminary Goutami Eye Hospital in Machilipatnam.

    A small successful eye camp and ANOTHER surprise
    On the way back we stopped in Delhi and did a small screening eye camp and attended the event where VKR was given the Mahatma Award. A journalist in Delhi asked Dr. Raju what does all this mean to you?

    He stated, “Would like to do more for a world without childhood blindness”. VK was invited in Delhi to visit an outstanding social service organization (since 1968) the Sulabh International Social Service Organization.

    Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak (Padma Bhushan), Founder of Sulabh International Social Service Organization, invented two-pit pour-flush ecological compost toilet technology. Sulabh flush is based on a simple design that is eco-friendly and uses just around 1.5 litres of water to flush.

    In the context of developing countries where sewer systems are almost nonexistent, Sulabh toilets offer an innovative solution to the global sanitation crisis. A trip to the toilet museum (maybe the only one in the world) really changes your perspective.

    The organization also runs an excellent school and would like to support our vision of the world without childhood blindness.

    Sulabh International Museum of Toilets entrance (Above)
    First underground sewage system in Indus Valley Civilization 5000 years ago. (Below)

    A personal note from Dr. Raju- another wonderful surprise after my return in the USA.

    NATS (North American Telegu Society) has graciously gifted $100,000 to EFA. (the hard work of our two board members Sam Maddali and Sekhar Vemparala)

    We’re about $2000 short for Post Operative Eye Drops for Ghana

    At the end of this month, we’ll be heading to Ghana Africa for the 5th year to provide vision saving surgeries. Please consider donating $50 towards a life changing surgery. 

    VISIT www.eyefoundationofamerica.org

     

  • AMERICANISM, NOW

    AMERICANISM, NOW

    “America is undergoing serious soul wrenching changes at the same time soul searching. Recently, there have been shocking setbacks to long established order: Huge monetary contributions to elections that tilts the scales of justice; denying women the right to choose; reversing affirmative action in college admissions, thereby denying the opportunity to right the wrings of the past. It can be turbulent, seemingly disorderly and chaotic at times, viewed by Americans and the world alike, but Americans are resilient, persevere and strive for a better tomorrow. Eventually, the individual and national spirit prevail and society tries to right the wrongs.”

    Despite its flaws, Americanism continues to be the envy of the world as it remains an unrivaled beacon of freedom, championing the cause of freedom, justice and liberty throughout the world, as well as the foundation of hope, aspirations, rewards and progress

    By Ashook Ramsaran

    Americanism is a unique historical, political and social phenomenon embedded in the founding principles of the Republic as duly recorded in its Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776 and subsequently, in the US Constitution signed on September 17, 1787, with the underlying covenant: The land of liberty, equality, freedom from injustices, freedom of the press, separation of religion and government, good governance with transparency and accountability, and the pursuit of happiness with equal justice under the law.

    Independence Day in America is a time of national celebration for becoming an independent nation, discarding the yoke of colonialism and foreign rule, forging a new nation of peoples from many countries, religious beliefs, cultures, languages and walks of life, all living together in peaceful coexistence, striving for success and happiness today and a better tomorrow, individually and collectively as a country. Americans share in this jubilation annually in a show of national pride, a deep sense of belonging.

    The celebration of USA independence is also of historic significance to the rapidly growing Indian American community who have benefited enormously from the Luce-Celler Immigration Act of 1946 signed into law on 3rd July 1946 by President Harry Truman granting naturalization rights to Filipinos and Asian Indians. The Immigration Act of 1946 also “allowed Filipino Americans and Indian Americans to naturalize and become United States citizens”. Upon becoming US citizens, the new Americans could own homes and farmland, and petition for family unification. This reversed the Naturalization Act of 1870 which had denied Asians the right to gain US citizenship.Unmatched economic and military strength, technological prowess and national resiliency define the pre-eminent position of United States in the world, while the US engages in wars and conflicts at enormous human and financial costs, defending democracy, fledgling nations and its own economic interests, as well as exporting US technology, manufacturing expertise and US brand of music, foods and entertainment for economic gain. At times, economic interests dictate geo-political alliances, ignoring human rights and freedom of the press abuses. Despite its flaws, Americanism continues to be the envy of the world as it remains an unrivaled beacon of freedom, championing the cause of freedom, justice and liberty throughout the world, as well as the foundation of hope, aspirations, rewards and progress. National pride and optimism have always been, and continue to be, hallmarks of Americanism. The “can do” attitude is a reminder of the many accomplishments that dominate world economics, military position and high technology.

    Americanism also pays homage and honors those Americans who have made the ultimate sacrifice in defending the United States during its many wars and conflicts. From Arlington National Cemetery (Virginia, USA) to Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial France), US Memorial Day is a national holiday, observed annually in somber remembrance with wreath laying ceremonies, nationwide parades, concerts and fireworks. The many cemeteries and unmarked tombs the world over are a reminder of the lengths to which the USA has gone to wage war and defend its interests.

    America is a nation that is always adapting in innovating ways to sustain its democracy amidst ever changing demographics with new immigrants and their children taking their places in this amazing experiment of nation building and personal upliftment. There is outspoken and visible opposition to increased migration from many segments of American society, while not acknowledging that migration adds to the vitality and sustained advancement of the country. Example: There are over 30 major US companies whose CEOs are of Indian origin. Immigrants from other countries flourish and achieve significantly more than would have been possible in their countries of origin. Americanism provides a welcome environment for competitiveness, equal opportunity, meritorious rewards, and freedom to explore possibilities despite risks. Americanism also gradually acknowledges the positive influence of major cultural phenomena such as Lunar New Year, Eid-ul-Fitr, Yoga and Diwali, the latter celebrated in the White House and becoming a New York City school holiday. Notwithstanding, Americanism is replete with its own history of subjugating and depriving Native Americans (from inception at Plymouth and continuing) and Afro-Americans (as slaves from 1619 to 1865) in brutal and inhuman ways. It must be noted that indentured Chinese labor was used in inhuman ways to build the trans-continental railroads, while Japanese Americans were illegally placed in internment camps during World War II. Despite the Civil War and the 1865 end of slavery declaration and the Civil Rights Act of 1965, the struggle continues to bring about equality and social justice by stalwarts such as: The late Dr Martin Luther King Jr, the late John Lewis, President Barak Obama, Vice President Kamala Harris, Medgar Evers, Rosa Parks, W.E.B. Du Bois, George Mason, Julian Bond, Maya Angelou, Arthur Ashe, Thurgood Marshall, Supreme Court Justices Thurgood Marshall and Ketanji Brown Jackson, and many, many others.

    This sad history has long lasting consequences because the wrongs inflicted on Native Americans and Afro-Americans continue to suppress and diminish the potentials, aspirations and progress among a significant population of Americans. While Americanism is strong and resilient, its democracy can also be put at risk (as exemplified on January 6, 2021) if resoluteness and constant vigilance are not in place. America is undergoing serious soul wrenching changes at the same time soul searching. Recently, there have been shocking setbacks to long established order: Huge monetary contributions to elections that tilts the scales of justice; denying women the right to choose; reversing affirmative action in college admissions, thereby denying the opportunity to right the wrings of the past. It can be turbulent, seemingly disorderly and chaotic at times, viewed by Americans and the world alike, but Americans are resilient, persevere and strive for a better tomorrow. Eventually, the individual and national spirit prevail and society tries to right the wrongs.

    Americanism, now, continues its journey of a nation trying to find itself in a new world order, adapting and innovating, at times soul searching, yet strong and vigilant, amidst rapidly changing internal demographics, and a very different world than when America became a country.

    ( Author is President, Indian Diaspora Council Int’l and Exec Vice President of Queens Civic Congress)

     

  • GOPIO Manhattan, Indian Consulate & Happy Life Yoga Collaborate to Celebrate Yoga Day

    GOPIO Manhattan, Indian Consulate & Happy Life Yoga Collaborate to Celebrate Yoga Day

    NEW YORK (TIP): On the occasion of 9th International Yoga Day 2023, GOPIO-Manhattan in cooperation with the Consulate General of India in New York and Emmy-nominated filmmaker & Happy Life Yoga speaker Tirlok Malik hosted a highly interactive and informative Yoga Zoom event on June 25th featuring experts and speakers from various walks of life. Shri Randhir Jaiswal, Consul General of India in New York sent his best wishes to GOPIO and Malik for celebrating the 9th International Yoga Day 2023. The chief guest Consul Vipul Dev, who looks after Press, Information and Culture at the Indian Consulate, New York (USA) was present on the occasion. GOPIO-Manhattan Secretary Bhavya Gupta was the MC for the event which was hosted in the presence of Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman of GOPIO International and GOPIO President Lal Motwani as well as distinguished members of GOPIO International and its chapter officials from the Northeast of USA and many viewers from all over the world. The event was also supported by The Indian Panorama and Indian American Forum.

    Ms. Bhavya Gupta started the event welcoming all and shared the updates from the 9th International Yoga Day held at the United Nations on June 21st under the presence of Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi. GOPIO team members along with citizens across 135 nationalities participated in the Yoga event, which earned the Yoga Day Event an entry into the Guinness Book of World Records for the Most Nationalities in a Yoga Session.

    The event was energetic, knowledgeable, inspiring, and celebratory in nature. While emphasizing upon the growing importance of Yoga in today’s times, Malik explained his vision behind Happy Life Yoga and its underlying philosophy, “A way of living inspired by the wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga and Indian Philosophy, Happy Life Yoga is beneficial for one and all. The pandemic has made the world realize that it is of paramount importance to have a good health, physically and emotionally, and the Happy Life Yoga platform can show how to achieve it.”

    GOPIO Chairman Dr. Abraham in his welcome remarks said, “Yoga has now become an international brand after the UN declaration in 2014 and Yoga Day is now celebrated all over the world.” Dr. Abraham also complimented the Indian Consulate for continuing to support Yoga celebrations by the community groups in the Northeast of the US. Dr. Abraham also complimented Consul General Jaiswal for hoisting the largest number of programs at the New York Consulate every month compared to other MEA missions around the world.

    Indian Consul Vipul Dev said, “Yoga has become very popular in our life and personally I feel great that something like Yoga from my country has been adopted and owned by the rest of world.” He also added that Yoga brought positivity in his life. He also mentioned that the Indian Consulate in New York has been celebrating Yoga Day with community groups starting in the first week of June, including one at the Niagara Falls.

    While emphasizing upon the growing importance of Yoga in today’s times, Malik explained his vision behind Happy Life Yoga and its underlying philosophy, “A way of living inspired by the wisdom of Ayurveda, Yoga and Indian Philosophy, Happy Life Yoga is beneficial for one and all. The pandemic has made the world realize that it is of paramount importance to have good health, physically and emotionally, and the Happy Life Yoga platform can show how to achieve it.” One of the major highlights of the Happy Life Yoga event was the knowledge session moderated by Malik who is known for his ability to engage with his audience using the right mix of banter and substance. The event was energetic, informative, inspiring, and celebratory in nature. In his brief remarks, Tirlok Malik for propagating the power of Yoga globally through the Happy Life Yoga event.

    Speakers . From L to R: Prof. Indrajit Saluja, Indu Jaiswal, Anil Narang, Dr. Renee Mehrra, Neeta Bhasin, Deborah Fishman, Neha Lohia, Victoria Moran, Radhika Bhagat and Dr. Tara Shajan.

    The speakers at the event included Professor Indrajit Saluja (Chief Editor/Publisher, The Indian Panorama), Indu Jaiswal (Chairperson, Indian American Forum), Anil Narang (Vegan Ambassador), Lal Motwani (GOPIO International President), Neeta Bhasin (President, ASB Communications), Dr. Renee Mehra (Reenbow Media), Deborah Fishman (Founder of FED Talk), Neha Lohia (Filmmaker), Radhika Bhagat (CEO, Sacred Earth Trust), Dr. Tara Shajan (President, Indian Nurses Association), and Victoria Moran (Founder, Main Street Vegan Academy). The event was co-sponsored by The Indian Panorama and Indian American Forum.

    The event ended with a laughter session and message of “I Love Myself” even as Malik promised to bring more Happy Life Yoga events in the near future. Happy Life Yoga is the creation of Tirlok Malik. It is essentially an educational platform that offers a unique holistic approach to health and happiness using tools from Ayurveda, Indian Philosophy, and Yoga to help better manage modern-day challenges such as work, finances, relationships, family and other social pressures. It was launched in June 2019 in New York. Malik’s portfolio of work has won many awards and has been acclaimed in the media and people worldwide. Through his work he intends to inspire others to live happier and healthier lives and the journey continues.

    Part of the audience at the zoom session of Happy Life Yoga.

    During the program, GOPIO International President Lal Motwani, who also serves as honorary chair of GOPIO-New York chapter, spoke on Yoga and cited that one has to make others happy to be happy yourself. GOPIO-Manhattan Chapter President Shivender Sofat invited the community to participate in other chapter activities including welcoming new students from India for a Welcome Dinner event in late September. He further added on the various services from the chapter including community feeding on the last Monday of every month and invited members of the community to sponsor this effort. GOPIO-Manhattan Chapter Board Member Siddharth Jain, who managed the Zoom session gave the vote of thanks.

    Also present at the event were community leaders including India Association of Long Island President Bina Sabapathy, GOPIO International Coordinator Dr. Asha Samant, Rakesh Agarwal of UP Association of North America, AIA Secretary Gunjan Rastogi, who is also Regional VP of NFIA and Sudhir Vaishnav of Bhartiya Vidhya Bhavan.

    GOPIO-Manhattan, in accordance with its mission to serve the larger society and those in need, has taken several initiatives in the recent past. A Community Feeding is organized by the Chapter providing ​vegan or ​vegetarian lunch for the homeless and needy at Tomkins Square Park in Manhattan on the last Monday of every month. The chapter appeals to the community to support the initiative by being a volunteer and/or a sponsor.

    For additional information on GOPIO Manhattan, contact President Shivender Sofat at 731-988-6969, e-mail: info@gopiomanhattan.org or visit here: https://gopiomanhattan.org/ Facebook Link: GOPIO Manhattan NYC

  • July Fourth Travel Advisory

    July Fourth Travel Advisory

    AAA predicts Friday travel times will be up nearly 30 percent over normal

    NEW YORK (TIP): AAA predicts a record-breaking Independence Day holiday weekend. The travel experts at the auto club estimate 43.2 million people will drive to their destinations, an increase of 2.4 percent over 2022, with another 7.5 million people traveling by air. They also predict that Friday will be the busiest day on the roads during the Independence Day holiday weekend — pushing average travel times up nearly 30 percent over normal.

    No wonder — a Tuesday Fourth of July makes it enticing to put together an extra-long weekend. Also, gas prices are well below what they were one year ago. The national average for regular gasoline ranges from $3.50 – $3.60 a gallon, far lower than the fearsome price of $4.80 on July 4, 2022, AAA reported. “We’ve never projected travel numbers this high for Independence Day weekend,” Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel, said in a news release. “What this tells us is that despite inventory being limited and some prices 50% higher, consumers are not cutting back on travel this summer.” INRIX, which provides AAA with transportation data and insights, estimated best and worst times for the five days leading up to the Fourth.

    Thursday: Before noon will be the best travel time, with the worst between 4-6 p.m.
    Friday: Best travel time before 10 a.m. or after 6 p.m.; worst from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
    Saturday: Best travel time before noon. Worst: 1 p.m.
    Sunday and Monday: minimal impact on traffic expected
    As a bonus, they predicted that on the holiday Tuesday the best travel times will be before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m. and the worst will be noon – 3 p.m. Travel on July 5 will be best before 2 p.m. and worst from 3-6 p.m. The absolute worst traffic congestion in the metro area will be on the Garden State Parkway heading to Jersey Shore at 5 p.m. Friday, they said: 64 percent longer than usual.

    “As the weekend approaches, we remind all drivers to stay awake, aware and sober, and to ensure every passenger is buckled up,” said Cathy Chase, president of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “Watching fireworks with friends or taking a family vacation should be a blast and not a bust due to a preventable crash.”

    Last week, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration released its first projections for traffic fatalities in 2023, estimating that 9,330 people died in traffic crashes in the first three months of the year, which is on track to total close to 40,000 deaths this year, she said.

    “We cannot and should not continue to tolerate this deadly toll on our roads. While we urge everyone to drive safely on this busy extended weekend, we also call on our Nation’s leaders to complete the vehicle safety rulemakings mandated in the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA, Pub. L. 117-58) and other overdue statutorily mandated advances without further delay.”
    (Source: Patch)