MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano and Acting Police Commissioner Thomas Krumpter honored Nassau County Marine Bureau Police Officers Joseph Nappi, John Ciatarella, and Joseph Schoepher for their actions in rescuing two boaters and their dog from a capsized boat in the waters of Reynolds Channel.
“The quick thinking of these three NCPD Marine Bureau Officers helped save the lives of these two boaters and especially their dog,” said County Executive Mangano.
“This could have ended tragically for everyone involved but it is thanks to the bravery of these officers that these three were able to escape without injury.”
On Tuesday, October 4th at 11:20 a.m. the Nassau County Marine Bureau Police received a distress call for the boat near the Meadowbrook 3 Bridge, and after pulling Joe Aveivi and Shaun Morales from the water they were told there had been a dog on board who was still unaccounted for.
The officers searched the area but still could not find the dog, a 14-month old Cane Corso named Amirror.
The officers determined that Amirror was likely still stuck inside the overturned boat and quickly began to right the vessel with the help of Tow Boat US, making sure that any air pockets that were formed did not get broken.
After nearly an hour, they were able get to Amirror out safe and sound. She was then taken to a local animal hospital where she received a clean bill of health.
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): “I am absolutely ecstatic to be here today. This is a great day for Long Island. This Mandir is absolutely beautiful. It is gorgeous,” said, Steven Bellone, Suffolk County Executive during the inauguration of the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, in Melville, New York. SadguruPujya Kothari Swami (PujyaBhaktipriya Swami) – one of the most senior Swami of BAPS, and revered swamis from India and North America inaugurated the temple on October 9, 2016.
After two decades of unflinching dedication and thousands of hours of volunteer work, the Mandir stood glistening as the much-anticipated inauguration ceremony started on the morning of October 9, 2016. SadguruPujya Kothari Swami (PujyaBhaktipriya Swami) performed the consecration ceremony in accordance with Hindu Vedic rituals to infuse divinity into the sacred images inside the Mandir in the presence of devotees and well-wishers from across the Tri-state area. The Mandir is the vision of His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj. It was inaugurated with the blessing of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, the current spiritual leader of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha.
Havan Yajna being performed as part of the inauguration
“The inauguration of the Mandir is a dream come true for me,” said, Girish Patel, a lead volunteer for the Mandir. “We were trying to acquire land since a long time and put in a lot of effort for the timely completion of the construction. The inauguration of the Mandir is a great moment of joy and celebration for all of us. Today onwards, the Mandir is open to one and all.” The inauguration was a culmination of a host of events, held over three days. The festivities for the opening began with a melodious “KirtanAradhana” (singing of devotional songs) by BAPS Swamis.
On Saturday, October 8th, a yagna was performed with prayers for family unity and world peace. Speaking on occasion, Steven Bellone, Suffolk County Executive said, “Long Island, Suffolk County, this nation, this world is enriched, has been made better by all of the people inside this room today. There are a lot of problems in the world today, lot of strife, war; we have problems here in our own country, and sometimes when I think about the future I think what is that going to look like. Then I come here and look out into this room and I see an army of people who are good and fighting for good and what is best about humanity in our world today. So I feel good, and I feel confident, and I feel proud about our future. ” Other dignitaries present for the event were Assemblyman Chad A. Lupinacci, Steve Zimmerman from Newsday Corporation and community leaders from New York and New Jersey. “I have been waiting for this day for years. I can’t believe it it’s finally here and it’s so beautiful, said Sheena Shah, a devotee.
“If one word could sum up the construction of this Mandir, it would be: sacrifice. It was, indeed, the dedication, service, effort and sacrifice of hundreds of volunteers from doctors to lawyers to engineers to architects who completed this Mandir”, said, Hardik Patel. “Whether it was raining or sweltering outside, volunteers came every evening and on all weekends to do everything from heavy duty labor to planning and execution of the smallest thing for making this Mandir.” The Mandir was constructed utilizing a suite of eco-friendly and cost-effective technological advancements including natural lighting techniques, and LED lights to help reduce its carbon footprint. The building includes youth classrooms, a gymnasium, and an assembly hall to host the weekly Satsang or spiritual assemblies.
“The new Mandir will surely be home for cultural, social, and religious activities for the Hindu American community will also be a hub for community service activities. Very soon we will see various activities in the areas of education, environment, health, social welfare, and culture being organized here. The Mandir will help improve the quality of life of individuals and families,” said, Samir Bhatt, a BAPS representative. For more information about the new Mandir and the activities of BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha, please visit www.baps.org/longisland.
About BAPS: The BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha (BAPS), a worldwide socio-spiritual organization in Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations, is dedicated to community service, peace, and harmony. Motivated by Hindu principles, BAPS strives to care for the world by caring for societies, families and individuals. Through a number of social and spiritual activities at its 3,850 international centers, BAPS endeavors to produce better citizens of tomorrow who have a high esteem for their roots – their rich Hindu culture. Under the guidance and leadership of His Holiness Mahant Swami Maharaj, BAPS aspires to build a community that is morally, ethically and spiritually pure, and free of addictions. Contact: BAPS North American Headquarters – Media Department Phone: 732-777-1414 ext 140 Email: media@na.baps.org
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, in partnership with County Legislator Richard Nicolello, will be providing free Senior Citizen photo identification cards this October. These free senior citizen identification cards include a photo, name, address, phone number, birthdate and emergency contact information.
County Executive Mangano said, “The Senior Citizen Photo Identification Program provides residents with a convenient way to keep important information on a single, wallet sized ID card. The ID card serves as an important tool in the event of an emergency as it allows first responders to quickly identify you and the person that should be contacted about your situation.”
Photos and cards will be processed on-site and residents will take their free senior citizen photo ID card home from the event scheduled for October 25th, from 11 AM to 1 PM at Williston Park Village Hall, located on the 3rd Floor of 494 Willis Avenue. Each resident participating in the program will also receive information on life-saving County programs, including Smart911, Vial of Life and Yellow Dot.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos announced Thursday, September 29 that he has submitted “this morning to the Nassau County Board of Elections, an application to change my party registration to Democrat”.
In a statement to the media, Maragos said, “I have been at odds with the Republican Committee over issues of fiscal responsibility, borrowing, waste, and trust in government. I have been at odds over raising the minimum wage, and increased opportunities for Women, Minorities and Veterans. Over time, I found that my values have become more aligned with the Democratic Party.Consequently, this morning, I have submitted, to the Nassau County Board of Elections, an application to change my party registration to Democrat”.
Recalling his association with the Republican Party and the Republican Chairman Mondello, Maragos said, “I want to express my gratitude for the great opportunity he gave me to be of public service. I also, would like to thank my many Republican friends for their friendship. I hope that our friendship will continue and transcend party ideology”.
Setting at rest any impact of his decision on his position as Comptroller, Maragos categorically stated: “My party change will have NO impact on my responsibilities as Comptroller. I will continue to run the office in an independent and bipartisan manner, as I have done in the past six years”.
Commenting on the functioning of Nassau County, he said, “We are all aware that Nassau County faces significant financial challenges, multiple corruption allegations, weak economic growth, and a costly and unfair tax assessment system, We CANNOT continue to borrow in order to pay the bills, defer paying bills, or hit our residents with BIG fees.
“Nassau County can do better! We need to restore trust in government, strengthen public health and safety, eliminate waste, balance the budget without borrowing, and finally fix the broken tax assessment system which is costing tax payers nearly$100M/ per year resulting in higher taxes for many.
“In order to address these pressing issues, today, I am announcing that I will be seeking the Democratic Party nomination for Nassau County Executive.
“As a two term Comptroller, I have intimate knowledge of the challenges facing our government, 35 years of proven senior management experience, and the integrity to deal with the issues facing Nassau County.
“Together, we can make Nassau County a better place to stay, live, find good paying jobs, raise a family, and retire in our homes! I look forward to work closely with Chairman Jay Jacobs and all elected officials to make Nassau County more affordable, vibrant and with a Government we can be proud of.”
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): A Newsday report says that Oyster Bay has terminated its concessions agreements at the town-owned Woodlands catering hall and Tobay Beach with companies formerly owned by indicted restaurateur Harendra Singh, a Town spokeswoman said Tuesday, September 20.
“We were trying to work out or negotiate a termination agreement throughout the summer,” spokeswoman Marta Kane said. “That was unsuccessful.”
Meanwhile, Newsday reported that Former Harendra Singh concessions investors want to remain. Some of the investors who have been operating the concessions at Oyster Bay’s Woodlands catering hall and Tobay Beach want to continue even after being terminated by the town, their lawyer said Tuesday.
On Monday, the town notified the investors that their concessions agreements were being terminated due to defaults on payments in 2015. On Tuesday, investor Ravinder Chopra and his attorney Ed Troy of Greenlawn met with Jonathan Sinnreich of Sinnreich Kosakoff & Messina LLP, Oyster Bay’s outside attorney, and town parks commissioner Frank Nocerino.
“The town issued letters allegedly terminating the concession agreements,” Troy said outside Sinnreich’s Central Islip office afterthe meeting.
The purpose of the roughly 30-minute meeting was “for us to present facts that mitigate against them doing so,” Troy said.
He said his clients still wanted to be involved with the operations as concessionaires though “not as presently constituted” but declined to get into further details.
The companies running the concessions – S.R.B. Convention & Catering Corp. and SRB Catering Inc. -were taken over from indicted restaurateur Harendra Singh by a group of investors known to include Ravinder Chopra, Manoj Narang and Jagadeesan Poola. Harendra Singh faces a January trial on chargesincluding bribery and tax fraud.
The details of the takeover are unclear and Troy advised Chopra not to answer questions from a reporter about whether Singh’s wife Ruby still had a stake in the companies.
Asked whether the concessionaire was in arrears in its payments to the town, Troy said, “that’s an issue that’s in dispute.”
Sinnreich said in an interview that his role was limited to preparing requests for proposals for the concessions and referred questions about the town’s negotiations with the investors – which have been ongoing all year – to attorney Jonathan Pickhardt of Manhattan-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP.
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): The Annual Benefit Gala for the AIA Deepavali in Roslyn, Long Island drew a large number of supporters of the organization. The presence of heavyweight honorees seems to have made all the difference. The honorees included Padma Bhushan Dr. Chitranjan S Ranawat, an internally famous Orthopedic Surgeon with The Hospital for Special Surgery, New York; an eminent Interventional Cardiologist with The Mount Sinai Medical Center, Dr. Sami Sharma; and a philanthropist, social activist, community leader and a successful businessman dealing in branded fragrances Kanak Golia.
The heartthrob of young kids across the world, Neel Sethi, actor, star of Disney’s “The Jungle Book” was honored with special recognition. Speaking briefly about his role in the movie, he happily replied to questions from the audience. Many in the audience had their cellphone cameras aimed at him video-recording the interaction. He will be meeting kids at the AIAA Deepavali on October 2nd at the South Street Seaport. So, kids, get ready to meet the star.
The Association of Indians in America, NY Chapter (AIA-NY) will be celebrating its 29th Annual Deepavali Festival at the South Street Seaport in New York on October 2, a historic day being the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Indian Nation.
This event is one of the largest in the tri-state area, attracting 75,000 -100,000 people from all backgrounds and walks of life. The New York Times, once placed the number of visitors to the Deepavali mela at about 200,000 residents from all across the tri-state area.
YouTube sensation Vidya Vox will also be performing live at the mela – she sang a couple of Hindi bhajans at the fundraising gala also.
The Oct 2 event will be a full day extravaganza celebrating tradition, culture and oneness with numerous food and clothing vendors, corporate booths, a children’s area, health kiosk, performances and activities for the whole family.
This year, as the date coincides with the birthday of Mahatma Gandhi, there will be a special tribute paid to Gandhiji and an Essay & Drawing Competition held for the youth to showcase the importance and meaning of Peace.
Live Fireworks from the East River illuminating the New York City skyline will serve as the Grand Finale of Diwali mela.
Sponsors this year include CheapOAir, Qatar Airways, Toyota, New York Life, Swan Club,MoneyGram, Kotak Mahindra, New York Life, HAB Bank, Navika Capital, Star Plus, Sony Entertainment, Jus Punjabi and TV Asia.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): The 70th Independence Day of India was celebrated with great enthusiasm with parades, flag hoisting and music concerts at a number of places all over the Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. It became almost difficult to keep the count of celebrations. For journalists, it has been a hectic period, running from one event to the other. For publications the task became more daunting as they had to make a mention of as many of these celebrations as possible in the limited pages available with them. However, we will try to recognize as many as we can in this edition.
India’s Minister of State for External Affairs of, Mr. M.J. Akbar hoisted the Indian National Flag at the Indian Consulate on August 15th in the presence of the Consulate staff and members of the community. Also present were a few elected representatives from New York City Council and Assemblymen from New Jersey.
It was the first time that the Consulate held the Independence Day celebration out in the street in the open.
Consul General Riva Ganguly Das read out the President of India’s address to the nation on the eve of Independence Day. The President in his speech appreciated the spirit of cooperation and understanding among all political parties in passing the GST Bill in the Parliament. However, he expressed his concern at the growing intolerance in the nation.
Minister M. J. Akbar who was on his first visit to New York after assuming charge as Minister of State for External Affairs unfurled the Indian National Flag. He greeted Indian Americans on this auspicious and historic occasion. He congratulated the large Indian community gathered at the Consulate for their many achievements and thanked them for their support in strengthening India-US relations and partnering with India as “we march ahead to growth and prosperity for all”.
Reports of Flag hoisting have come from various places in the Tri-States of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano extends greetings on India’s Independence Day
In Nassau County which is house to a large number of Indian Americans, the national flag was unfurled in the County Executive building. The County Executive Edward P. Mangano unfurled the national flag of India -the Tricolor- on August 15, in the presence of a large number of the Indian American community, elected officials and politicians.
The County Executive honored some community members on the occasion. The honorees included Dr Dattatreryudu Nori, an internationally renowned Oncologist,Dr Vijay Shah, Vice Chairman of Friends for Good Health, Penny K Sandhu, Founder of Jus Punjabi TV channel, Dr Manjul Bhargava, the Brandon Fradd Professor of Mathematics at Princeton University, Dr Dipali Pandya, Pediatrician, Mrs. Bina Sabapathy, a popular community activist, and Vimal Goyal, Treasurer of India Association of Long Island, well known business man, known for his community services and philanthropy.
Honorees with County Executive Edward P Mangano and community leaders
Indian American Merchants” Association of Jackson Heights celebrated India’s Independence with flag hoisting on August 15, 2016. It was the first time that the association organized a flag hoisting ceremony on India’s Independence Day. The veteran Merchants Leader Shiv Dass who is President of the association and Mohinder Verma, General Secretary told The Indian Panorama that they had decided a little late in the day to organize the flag hoisting event and did not have enough time to send out the information but would be organizing the event on amuch larger scale next year.
Indian American Merchants Association President Shiv Dass addresses the gathering on the occasion of the flag hoisting ceremony to mark India’s 70th Independence Day. From L to R: Unidentified lady, Assemblyman Jose Peralta, Council Member Daniel Dromm, President Shiv Dass, General Secretary Mohinder Verma, Unidentified ladies
Assemblyman Jose Peralta, Council Member Daniel Dromm and H.S. Toor, representing Assemblyman David Weprin were among the guests who spoke on the occasion. They greeted Indian Americans on the 70th Independence Day of India and spoke highly of the community’s contribution to America.
The gathering was treated to a lunch.
The Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut has the distinction of a number of parades on the occasion at which Indian Americans and their friends turn up in thousands.
Town Clerk of Town of Hempstead, Nasrin Ahmed addresses the gathering at the starring point of the parade. Seen, among others are County Executive Ed Mangano (right of Nasrin) and President Beena Kothari (right of Mangano).
The IDP USA parade in Hicksville, Long Island celebrated the Independence Day with a parade followed by a variety entertainment program for the fifth year in a row on August 15. Bollywood actor Bobby Deol was the Grand Marshall.
For whatever reason, the starting point as also the route of the parade were changed this year. The parade, with much fewer number of participants started from Apna Bazar where the County Executive Ed Mangano, Comptroller George Maragos and a number of other elected officials, judges included and politicians joined the parade. Some addressed the gathering. The IDP USA parade President Beena Kothari and the founder of Parade Bobby Kalotee, Secretary Flora Parikh, Media Secretary Ajay Batra and other officials of parade were also present.
Indubitably, a leaner parade passed through the inner roads to the destination opposite Asa Mai Hindu Temple where the variety entertainment program was organized. As usual, there was an air of a fair with a number of eating stalls and other booths selling different kind of wares.
One got reminded of a famous quote:”sound and fury, signifying nothing”. So it was with the parade this year. So much effort and so little output. One of the officials of the parade, on condition of anonymity, confidedthat the expenses were much in excess of revenue generated.
Among the saving graces of the parade was participation by young kids.I was very pleased to see the zeal of small girl scouts who were a part of the parade.
Girl scouts at the India Day Parade in Hicksville
2016 witnessed emergence of a new India Day parade. Indian American residents on the border of Long Island and Queens along Hillside Avenue and Union Turnpike have been thinking for some time to organize India day parade. They felt the City where the FIA organizes a parade too far off. Also, Hicksville seemed to be far. This year some enthusiastic residents of Floral Park and Bellerose neighborhoods got together and decided to organize a parade. Cooperation came from all quarters, according to principal organizers, Kirpal Singh who is chairman, Subhash Kapadia who is President, V.M. Chackoo who is Board of Director and Hemant Shah who is Secretary and Program manager.
Their untiring efforts bore tangible fruit when on August 13, they were rewarded with the enthusiastic presence of hundreds who marched in the parade in 105 degree temperature a stretch of a mile from 268thStreet to 235th Street along Hillside Avenue. According to the parade organizers, there were anywhere between 1500 to 1700 people belonging to 30 organizations who marched. In the parade. There were 4 decorated floats.
President Subhash Kapadia(center), Bollywood actor Manish Paul (left) and Bollywood actor Madalsa Sharma (right) at the First Floral Park-Bellerose India Merchants’ Association India Day Parade, August 13.
The Parade was led by NYPD band followed by NYPD personnel. Marching band included Tappan zee Bridge Band, Jai Bharat Dhol Tasha Pathak, Punjabi Dhol, Gujarati Dhol, Chenda and band of dancers from Kerala. Parade was attended by Bollywood celebrities Manish Paul and Madalsa Sharma. Political dignitaries included Congresswoman Grace Meng, State Senators Jack Martins and Leroy Comri, Comptroller George Maragos of Nassau County and Councilman Barry Grodenchik..
Post termination, all assembled in Padavan-Preller field No. 1 for cultural program. The Cultural Mela commenced with US and India’s National Anthems followed by very colorful and traditional performances by children of all ages.
It included songs presentation in various Indian Languages. Song ” God Bless America ” by 2 singers drew special attention from the attendees.
On the sidelines there were 20 booths for vendors. Free food and water was distributed by Neelkanth Dham Temple.
Another New York parade is scheduled to be taken out on August 21 in Manhattan. Controlled by a handful people from one community and one State of India, living in close proximity in New Jersey, the organizers, over the years, have successful pushed out many to secure a stranglehold control over the management of the parade. This newspaper has been advising them to democratize and make its working and financial management transparent but in view of the Indian American community’s indifference to the goings and a mysteriously studied silence, the coterie has assumed a despotic attitude. With most of the funds coming from government of India outlets it is expected of government of India that it would exercise influence over donor agencies and advise them not to sponsor until democratization of FIA is carried out. One expects from the US administration that its departments would insist on strict compliance of rules governing a not-for-profit corporation.
Let us have a look at New Jersey.
Indian Business Association India Day Parade in Edison, August 14.- Ready to start with Grand Marshall, guests and organizers.
On Sunday, Aug. 14 thousands of people flooded the streets of Edison, New Jersey to celebrate Indian Business Association’s 12th annual India Day Parade. The parade, which began on Oak Tree Road in the township and concluded in the Iselin section of Woodbridge, took off under hot weather, with American and Indian music, traditional dances, and cries of “Jai Hind!”
More than 100 New Jersey-based community, professional, business and religious organizations participated and supported the parade. According to a statement from the Indian Business Association (IBA), this year’s parade was the largest in the history of the event.
Air India participated in a big way at the parade. At the Air India float were the Air India Regional Manager Vandana Sharma and other Air India officials and flight crew. It was a special occasion for Air India, as it was launching the next day, August 15, the Dreamliner flight from Newark to Ahmedabad.
The event drew 24 floats from various organizations including BCB Community Bank float, the Investor’s Bank float, Accurate Diagnostics float, and Air India float, which was occupied by an entire flight crew with pilots in uniform waving to the crowd.
Air India staff was present in strength at the paradeA glimpse of India Day parade at Jersey City Photos/ Mohammed Jaffer-SnapsIndia
Variety of state and local elected officials from across the state, attended the event including U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, D-6th District, and state Sen. Sam Thompson, R-12th District, as well as New Jersey Lt. Gov. Kim Guadagno, Democrat gubernatorial candidate and former ambassador to Germany Phil Murphy, Jersey City Mayor Steve Fullop and former New Jersey Bernie Sanders Chairman Assemblyman John Wisniewski, D-19th District.
Guest of Honor at IBA India Day Parade Aarti Chhabria takes a salute at the parade
A cultural program followed the parade with Bollywood celebrities Harshika Poonacha, Aarti Chhabria and Varenyam Pandya.
On the same day, Indo American Senior Citizens Association of Hudson County hosted another parade in Jersey City that started at Newark Avenue and concluded at Leonard Gordon Park on Kennedy Boulevard.
New York, Aug 18: A Muslim mother of Pakistani origin has sued a New York school for $25 million claiming her disabled son was forced to sign a confession saying he was part of the Islamic State terror group.
Nubaisha Uppal, a resident of Long Island, claimed senior staff at East Islip Middle School bullied her son, Nashawn, 12, into falsely confessing he was a terrorist, the media reported on Thursday.
Attorney David Antwork said Nashawn, who emigrated to the US from Pakistan, was pressured into signing the confession despite not knowing what the word “terrorist” meant because of his severe social and learning difficulties.
According to the Daily Mail, Nashawn was bullied in the school cafeteria on January 6 by a group of older students, who repeatedly questioned his identity. After learning he was from Pakistan, it is alleged that the students began calling Nashawn a “terrorist” and asking him what he was planning to blow up next.
The abuse continued for ten to 15 minutes, the suit alleges, before Nashawn finally agreed with his tormentors that he was a terrorist. The suit alleges that Nashawn was only repeating the word “terrorist” without knowing what it meant, and when questioned later said it referred to “someone who travels”, like a tourist.
Nashawn’s family said that the following day of the abuse the assistant school Principal Jason Stanton removed him from a gym class and took him to his office. Inside the office Stanton was joined by Principal Mark Bernard, before the duo grilled Nashawn over his terrorism claims.
Stanton conducted an illegal search of Nashawn’s bag and was then accused of telling Nashawn that he had to write a confession admitting he was part of the IS and knew how to make bombs before he would be allowed to leave the office.
As part of the suit, Nashawn’s mental capacity by the district’s own staff is made clear that he is unable to understand the meaning of basic words, or follow logic in sentences, the Daily Mail reported.
The family is now suing for $25 million in compensatory and punitive damages, alleging that they have suffered nightmares, sleeplessness, fear, and stress as a result of the questioning.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano joined Peter Mele, PGA TOUR Executive Director, in welcoming back The Barclays to Nassau County for the 50th playing of this prestigious golf tournament. From Tuesday, August 23rd through Sunday, August 28th the Barclays PGA Tour event will be held at Bethpage State Park. The Barclays draws the top 125 golfers on the PGA tour and kicks off the fourevent FedExCup Playoffs, which determine the season-long champion.
“Nassau County is proud to sponsor The Barclays – which brings four days of great competition on the Black Course at Bethpage State Park, Long Island’s premier golf course,” said County Executive Mangano. “Having a tournament of this caliber, that has the ability to attract people from throughout the metropolitan area, is a tremendous boost to Nassau County’s economy.
It is estimated that the tournament will result in $34.4 million in spending related to lodging, recreation, food, retail, transportation, tickets and employment of those working at the event. The direct and indirect spending that is associated with an event such as The Barclays fuels additional spending as these dollars circulate through the economy and create jobs.
The Barclays is partnering with LIRR and will provide free shuttle service from the Farmingdale LIRR Station to/from the tournament grounds. Also, with the purchase of a daily Clubhouse ticket, patrons will receive a free round trip ticket from any LIRR station. Event and train tickets can now be purchased on line.
LONG BEACH, NY (TIP): Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano, follow him on twitter @edmangano, August 3, joined with Elected Officials, Long Beach International Film Festival Founders, Renowned Film Makers, Local Chefs, Performers and Charitable Partners and industry leaders in kicking off the 5th Annual Long Beach International Film Festival (LBIFF), taking place August 3rd – 5th in the City of Long Beach, which highlights New York centric films and filmmakers.
Mangano stated, “The Long Beach International Film Festival continues to offer residents an opportunity to enjoy arts and entertainment, while also providing those in the movie and television production industry with insight to the wonderful filming locations Nassau County has to offer. Home to Gold Coast Studios and Grumman Studios, as well as the live studio audience sitcom Kevin Can Wait starring Kevin James, Nassau County is becoming Hollywood East.”
The festival opens with Money, at 7:00pm at Long Beach’s recently renovated, state-of-the-art theater, Long Beach Cinema 4. Money is a 2016 American thriller film and the directorial debut of Martin Rosete. Set in the Hamptons, the film star heartthrobs including Jesse Williams, best known for his role as Dr. Jackson Avery on the ABC Television series Grey’s Anatomy, Kellan Lutz known for his role in The Twilight Saga film series, and others. Williams, a humanitarian and civil rights activist in real life, plays a greedy, wealthy businessman about to get away with $5 million in ill-gotten money until plans are revealed by an uninvited house guest. The LBIFF will be the New York premiere of the film that was shot in local Long Island towns including Woodbury.
The festival is proud to have many New York focused films such as Fire and Water, an inspirational and unique documentary that looks at New York City’s history through the eyes of local surfer turned New York City Firefighter, Don Eichin. The film was produced by filmmaker Thomas Brookins based in Rockaway Beach, New York.
A few featured films reveal the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy on the Long Beach area including A Rising Tide and Saving Jamaica Bay. A Rising Tide directed by Ben Hickernell tells the story of a young chef struggling to save his family’s restaurant after it is virtually destroyed during Hurricane Sandy. His love for cooking, family and an unexpected lover keeps his spirits up and his hopes afloat. Saving Jamaica Bay directed by David Sigal showcases a community’s fight against the government and Hurricane Sandy to preserve a precious resource that had become a dumping ground for garbage and murdered mobsters.
“The City is absolutely thrilled to host the fifth annual Long Beach International Film Festival,” said City Manager Jack Schnirman. “We are proud to be a sponsor and offer all the support we can. This is an event that we look forward to every summer — it truly epitomizes the Long Beach Life.”
Making its World premiere, Beauty and the Beer will have a Q&A session for attendees with the Director, Anne Newman. The New York based film is a story about The Miss Rheingold contest 1941-1964, one of the most successful marketing campaigns in U.S. history. In 1959, 20 million ballots were cast for Miss Rheingold. New Yorkers were given the opportunity to vote in bars, bodegas, and grocery stores for their candidate.
Other notable films set in a similar time frame are Spirit of Iris and AVIATRIX: The Katherine Sui Fun Cheung Story. Spirit of Iris, directed by Corinne Jayaweera is the story of a trail-blazing woman, who swam in the 1936 Olympic Games in Berlin, Germany and was in one of the earliest groups of women to ferry planes for the Air Transport Command in World War II. AVIATRIX: The Katherine Sui Fun Cheung Story is the story of a Chinese immigrant who defied racial and gender bias to become a pioneering daredevil stunt pilot during the Golden Age of Aviation in the 1930s.
Other acclaimed titles in this year’s competition include Chasing the Win, making its East Coast premiere. The film follows the meteoric rise of a rookie trainer, a long-time owner, and their beloved racehorse after an unprecedented victory thrusts them into the global spotlight of horse racing. Leaves of the Tree, a film set in Sicily about a mystical tree, shrouded in religious lore, leave a once powerful lawyer sidelined by a life threatening disease, to discover the secret of the tree’s medicinal leaves. “The Tree” intersects faith, doubt and belief for all those that come into contact with its unique ability to heal.
The festival’s founders are proud and excited to showcase a series of LGBT themed films that document local stories. Directed by Dave Dodds, Cherry’s in Season, documents a season in the life of Fire Island’s legendary gay bar, Cherry’s On the Bay. Staff, owners and regulars recount the storied history of the bar, including connections to the American Gay Rights Movement. Making its World premiere, Fire Island is about a happy wife becoming a heartbroken widow and mixed-up mistress, while only in her early thirties. She’s determined to find her way back to a happy life with a journey that kicks off on Fire Island.
A few Foreign Films are showcased in the Short films programs throughout the festival as well as the feature documentary Since: The Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103, a United Kingdom based film.
LBIFF also would not be complete without an Action Sports/Surfing Block—some of which include Dirty Old Wedge, Saltwater Buddha and more.
LBIFF acknowledges and thanks the many Festival Sponsors who demonstrate their commitment to aspiring filmmakers and expand the local arts community through their financial support. South Nassau Communities Hospital is sponsoring Shorts On The Beach Film Series and Key Foods of Rockville Centre, will be presenting the opening night film.
NEW YORK (TIP): Kalpita Chakote, a rising senior at George W. Hewlett High School, New York help raise over $7,000 to prevent blindness and restore eyesight by giving a charity dance performance in Port Washington last week.
Kalpita is the daughter of Dr. Vajinath Chakote, president of AAPI- QLI and a leading Indian-American physician of Long Island and Jyoti Chakote.
The combined Bharatanatyam and Bollywood dance performance at Jeanne Rimsky Theater drew loud appreciation from discerning audience that include Tom Suozzi, former Nassau County Executive and Democratic Party Congressional candidate.
Kalpita, a student of Guru Satya Pradeep, Artistic Director of Nritya Saagaram Dance Academy, commenced her program with Pushpanjali, a traditional welcome and prayer in praise of Lord Ganesha and exhibited various rhythmic patterns.
She followed it up with an item on Ardhanareeswara and explained the merger of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi in Ragamalika. She danced to the Hindustani number Deva Devam Bhaje, a famous Annamacharya keertan on Lord Ram and ended the segment with a Thillana – a joyful conclusion of the recital. All the four were choreographed by Satya Pradeep.
The second half saw her on an upbeat mood by dancing the famous Bollywood song “1, 2, 3, 4 Get on the dance floor” from the movie Chennai Express. She performed Gunday’s Jiya, Chennai Express’ Titli and Goliyon Ki Rasleela Ram-Leela’s Ram Chahe Leela. She also danced to the famous numbers – Bajirao Mastani’s Pinga and Devdas’ Dola re dola. These dances were choreographed by Guru Archana Phillip. She ended the performance with Drake’s One Dance, Dhoom-3’s Dhoom machale and Calvin Harris’s this is what you came for choreographed by Guru Nikhil Sadhnani.
A student of Bharatanatyam since she was six and trained by guru Satya Pradeep, she did her debut performance (Arangetram) a solo two and half hour performance at the age 12. She had performed in prestigious locations such as the United Nations, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and America Tamil Sangam.
She is good at Bollywood dance as well. Under the tutelage of gurus Archana Phillip and Nikhil Sadhnani, she was able to excel in the dance form and performed Bollywood dances at several fundraisers including for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and Himalayan Development Foundation. She plays flute in her school’s advanced band Wind Ensemble and at New York State School Association. Kalpita swims competitively and excels in the 100 yard butterfly.
“Dancing is my way of expressing my emotions and relating to others. I am happy that our team collected more than $7,000 to help restore eye sight and prevent blindness,” she said
“I have a severe astigmatism, irregularities in the curvature of my eyes. It has made me extremely nearsighted. It used to affect me when I danced. Before I had contact lenses and I danced without my glasses. I couldn’t see anything on stage. I was looking at complete darkness. I just had to trust that someone would catch me if I were too close to the edge of the stage. Sometimes my jewelry fell off, and I couldn’t see where it was. I just had to ignore it and hope that I wouldn’t step on it.
I am lucky because those situations were isolated events. I do not have to relive those moments. However, not being able to see and hoping nothing goes wrong are aspects of some people’s daily lives. They don’t have eye care. I stumbled upon Seva Foundation whose mission to restore eyesight and prevent blindness, I wanted to help because I knew what they faced.”
Seva Foundation is a global non-profit eye care organization that helps and strengthens communities by restoring eye sight and preventing blindness. The organization has helped four million blind regain eye sight in more than 20 countries, she said.
OLD BETHPAGE, NY (TIP): Able, the Newspaper For, By and About People with Disabilities, which has been bringing much needed news to people with disabilities since 1991, is celebrating 25 years of publication.
After her introduction to the disability community as a volunteer at the Paralympics, on Long Island in 1984, Able’s publisher, Angela Melledy brought together her newspaper experience and newly found affinity for the community of people with disabilities, to start Able Newspaper.
“It has been a wonderful time for me,” said Melledy.
“I’ve enjoyed great experiences and been involved with so many incredible people including people with disabilities as well as the people who work with them.
Able brings news about legislation, programs, civil rights, transportation, housing, employment and everything of interest to this population. Able includes products, sports news, a calendar of events and even a personals page that boasts at least two marriages and has a print and online presence.
“One year after the signing of the American with Disabilities Act, the Able Newspaper came into existence,” said Victor Calise, Commissioner of the NYC Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities.
“They have helped to reduce marginalization of people with disabilities and to consolidate the disability community for over 25 years. There are still people who don’t understand their obligations so Able is as important as ever. I know Able will continue to play an important role in the lives of people with disabilities for many years to come. Congratulations!”
“I congratulate Able Newspaper on their 25th Anniversary of providing news to our community. Congratulations on your success, and here’s to many more years to come,” said Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano.
“Angela Melledy and Able have chronicled the New York metropolitan area disability community for 25 years,” said James Weisman, president & CEO of United Spinal Association. “Able is a historical treasure. Congratulations Angela and everyone associated with this significant publication that brought people with disabilities together long before the internet and is as vibrant and relevant today as it was at its inception.”
Able covers the New York and New Jersey area with two editions and is based in Old Bethpage, N.Y. It can be read at no cost at www.ablenews.com.
P.O. Box 395, Old Bethpage, NY 11804 – 516 939-2252 -ableangela@aol.com -www.ablenews.com.
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): In what appears to be adding to the headache of Town of Oyster Bay, a New York State judge on Friday, July 8, ordered the Town of Oyster Bay to provide documents to Newsday in a ruling on Freedom of Information Law and Open Meeting Law requests.
State Supreme Court Judge Leonard Steinman in Mineola ruled that Oyster Bay must turn over documents in seven FOIL requests and must certify that it has completely fulfilled two requests. The judge ordered a hearing on two FOIL and three Open Meetings Law requests that he did not rule on.
“It is in the general public’s significant interest that Newsday be permitted to conduct the news investigation it is attempting to pursue by examining public documents (or, at least, documents that should have been and now will be public),” Steinman wrote.
Newsday alleged that Oyster Bay had violated FOIL and the Open Meetings Law when it refused to make documents available or certify that all documents had been provided in response to more than a dozen Newsday requests from December 2014 through February 2016.
Robert Freeman, executive director of the state Committee on Open Government, said it was an important decision.
“Most important was the fact that the judge was serious about the obligation of the government agency to meet the burden of defending secrecy,” Freeman said.
Thomas Sabellico, Oyster Bay special counsel, said an appeal was likely, but not before the decision had been fully reviewed and the parties meet for a conference on Thursday.
The requests covered financial, planning and contractual records for the town’s concessions agreements with indicted restaurateur Harendra Singh; other town contracts; financial disclosures of former Planning and Development Commissioner Frederick Ippolito; access to Zoning Board of Appeals meeting minutes; building permits; a town report on complaints made by Massapequa resident Robert Ripp; backup material for town board meetings; and town financial records.
Steinman awarded Newsday legal fees in an amount to be determined following the hearing.
Oyster Bay argued in court filings that many documents could be withheld because of ongoing investigations or potential litigation.
Steinman, however, ruled that this argument was without merit, pointing out that FOIL’s law enforcement exemption covers documents compiled specifically for investigations, not those that are produced in the normal course of business that may later become part of an investigation.
July 11, 2016 (TIP) NYC | New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) today announced the closing of a deal with Tishman Speyer to develop two new office towers providing 1.1 million square feet of much needed commercial space in Long Island City. The project will bring more than 1,500 construction jobs and more than 2,000 permanent jobs to Western Queens. In addition, more than 800,000 square feet of the available office space in the development has been pre-leased, including 250,000 square feet to WeWork.
The new commercial project, located on Jackson Avenue from Queens Boulevard to 42nd Road, includes two 27-story towers designed by Raul De Armas of MdeAS Architects. Construction will commence in early 2017 with completion anticipated in 2019. The towers will be connected by a four-story podium featuring a dynamic mix of retail, complemented by a food hall, restaurant, and parking garage, providing valuable amenities to local workers and residents in the vibrant mixed use neighborhood.
This project is the latest effort by the City of New York to bring jobs to Long Island City, and to grow the community as an innovation hub anchored by the Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island. The 1.1 million square feet of office space will also help meet growing demand, with an NYCEDC analysis expecting the city to need up to 60 million square feet of new commercial space by 2025.
“This project will be a major job generator for Long Island City,” said Deputy Mayor for Housing and Economic Development Alicia Glen. “We are focused on growing good jobs across the outer boroughs and meeting the demand for new office space. What rises at this site will not only spur our economy, but make Queens Plaza a more dynamic place to live and work.”
“Long Island City continues to emerge as a vibrant hub of jobs and economic activity,” said NYCEDC President Maria Torres-Springer. “These new towers will bring 2,000 permanent jobs to Western Queens, and represent a major step forward in solidifying Long Island City as a premier business district.”
“Thanks to the City of New York’s investment in the area’s infrastructure, enlightened policy decisions and the active support of the New York City Economic Development Corporation, the local community and its elected officials, Long Island City has become a model for 21st Century urban development,” said Tishman Speyer CEO Rob Speyer. “Tishman Speyer is proud to continue our role in unlocking the area’s full potential as one of the most dynamic, live-work-play neighborhoods, not just in Queens but in all of New York City.”
NYCEDC and Tishman Speyer previously partnered on a 21-story, 662,000 square-foot Class A office tower on the corner of Queens Plaza and 28th Street. The office portion of that tower, which was completed in 2011, is 100-percent occupied by the New York City Department of Health. The acquisition and development of the remainder of the block represents the completion of the City of New York’s vision for the transformation of what had once been an underutilized public parking garage into a vibrant job hub in Western Queens.
Today’s announcement builds on the ongoing efforts of the de Blasio Administration to invest in Long Island City as a live-work-play community and a new center for the 21st century economy. In February, NYCEDC began soliciting proposals for a catalytic, mixed-use development on two City-owned sites on the Long Island City waterfront, with a combined 1.2 million square feet of buildable space. This was the first time the City had issued a commercial-focused RFP along the LIC waterfront since the 2001 rezoning, and the RFP specifically asks respondents to maximize the amount of commercial space. The City’s goal for the sites is to deliver 300,000 square feet or more of office and light manufacturing space; between 700 and 1,000 units of housing, many of which will be affordable; and more than an acre of waterfront open space and a school for the LIC community.
And last November, Mayor Bill de Blasio broke ground on new infrastructure for Phase II of Hunter’s Point South, the largest new housing complex built in New York City in nearly forty years. Phase II will create nearly 3,000 new apartments, at least 60 percent of which will be affordable to low-, moderate-, and middle-income families. 2,000 units of housing are already under construction on Phase I of the project.
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About NYCEDC
New York City Economic Development Corporation (NYCEDC) is the City’s primary vehicle for promoting economic growth in each of the five boroughs. NYCEDC’s mission is to stimulate growth through expansion and redevelopment programs that encourage investment, generate prosperity and strengthen the City’s competitive position. NYCEDC serves as an advocate to the business community by building relationships with companies that allow them to take advantage of New York City’s many opportunities. Find us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter, or visit our blog to learn more about NYCEDC projects and initiatives.
NEW YORK CITY (TIP): New York Indian American community had reason to feel proud when a New Yorker Dr. Ajay Lodha took over as the national President of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), an organization which leads the largest ethnic medical society in the United States, representing the interests of over 100,000 Indian American physicians. And what he said in his inaugural address at the AAPI convention, after taking over on July 3, made the entire medical fraternity associated with AAPI to celebrate. He said he wants AAPI to be “more vibrant, united, transparent, politically engaged, ensuring active participation of young physicians, increasing membership, enabling that AAPI’s voice is heard in the corridors of power, and thus taking AAPI to new heights.” Surely, for AAPI members, here was a man with a vision and his words indicated a certain determination and resolve.
Dr. Lodha, who was administered the oath of office as the President of AAPI during the 34th annual convention in New York on July 3rd, 2016 vowed to take the more than three decades old organization to the new heights and “bring all the AAPI Chapters, Regions, Members of the Executive Committee and Board of Trustees to work cohesively and unitedly for the success of AAPI and the realization of its noble mission.”
Acknowledging that leading AAPI is a daunting challenge, Dr. Lodha said, “I’m very honored, privileged and consider myself fortunate to announce that I have an excellent group of dedicated, hardworking, and loyal officers and executive committee members who are with me to take AAPI to new heights.”
Dr. Lodha received the gavel from Dr. Seema Jain, the out-going president of AAPI as the more than 2,000 delegates cheered loudly, greeting the new President of AAPI. Along with him, Dr. Gautam Samadder as President-Elect, Dr. Naresh Parikh as Vice President, Dr. Suresh Reddy as Secretary, and Dr. Manju Sachdev as the Treasurer of AAPI, assumed charge in the presence of leading luminaries from across the nation. Dr. Madhu Agarwal assumed charge as the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, AAPI from the out-going chairman, Dr. Aravind Pillai. He stressed the importance of having YPS president Aditya Desai and MSRF President Atul Nakshi along with a diversified group of regional directors. “Their leadership will help us move forward with our current and future initiatives.”
An Internist by profession, Dr. Lodha has had experiences in leading almost all areas of Medicine. He owns two Nursing Homes on Long Island, New York and has been credited to be the founder of the Accountable Care Organization (ACO) and the Independent Physicians Association (IPA).
A graduate of RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Dr. Lodha completed his Residency at the Flushing Hospital, NY. He is the founder and president of Queens Medical Services, a primary care practice with two locations serving Queens, NY since 1995 and is a partner in Hillaire and Nesconset Nursing homes. Dr. Ajay Lodha was appointed a member of the Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos’s MWBE Advisory Council last year.
The New York-based physician and leader, who was honored with the prestigious Ellis Island Medals of Honor on May 7th, this year, rose through the ranks of AAPI and has been elected the President of AAPI. He is a recipient of Lawrence J. Scherr Award of Excellence for being an Outstanding Physi-cian. He has also been honored for Out-standing Contributions to Research & Hypertension Department at the Flushing Hospital, NY. In 2008, he was bestowed with the Nargis Dutt Memorial Foundation Physician of the Year Award.
Ajay Lodha hides a power house of entrepreneurial skills. Dr. Lodha has extensive background of overseeing quality assurance and quality improvement. He is a past president of RANA and RAJMAAI (Rajasthan Medical Alumni Associ-ation Inc.),
A past President of AAPI-QLI, Dr. Lodha was a former Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President of Caritas Health Care System representing St. John’s Hospital and Mary Immaculate Hospital in New York.
Dr. Lodha was appreciative of increased involvement of women within AAPI. “We have a woman as the chair of the Board of Trustees, a woman treasurer, and 33% of this year’s regional directors are women. Women face the added challenge of maintaining the household in addition to their medical careers and their role in AAPI. I am looking forward to a great women’s forum from our women leaders and chair not only in USA but also in India. I salute all the women leaders,” he said.
Soon after assuming office as the President of AAPI, Dr. Lodha declared that he will make every possible effort to restore AAPI’s image and enhance cohesiveness among different Chapters and Regions of AAPI. “When our founders first conceived of AAPI, they could not have imagined how well it would grow and develop. Let us not forget the achievements of those who have come before me. Their hard work and dedication serves as both an inspiration and a challenge to me,” he stated with gratitude and appreciation for the founders of this noble organization.
According to him, “The growing clout of the physicians of Indian origin in the United States is seen everywhere as several physicians of Indian origin hold critical positions in the healthcare, academic, research and administration across the nation.” Dr. Lodha’s vision for AAPI is to increase the awareness of APPI globally and help its voice heard in the corridors of power. “I would like to see us lobby Congress for an increase in the number of available Residency Positions so as to help alleviate the shortage of Doctors.”
AAPI has been able to serve as a platform in helping young physicians coming from India to seek residencies and help them in settlement and get jobs. Knowing that AAPI’s growth lies with the younger generation, Dr. Lodha has made it his priority to support and promote YPS and MSRF, the future of AAPI. “We need to host more educational and social activities to get young physicians more involved, and be able to stay connected with AAPI. That younger physicians and MSRF members feel fully integrated into AAPI and take more active roles. They should feel that they are benefitting by joining AAPI, which is, an extended family and they can turn to when in need of support and guidance,” he says. He wants to increase AAPI membership by offering more benefits and opportunities for mem-bers.
The new executive committee members: Dr. Ajay Lodha, President, Dr. Gautam Samadder President-Elect, Dr. Naresh Parikh, Vice President, Dr. Suresh Reddy, Secretary, and Dr. Manju Sachdev, Treasurer of AAPI
Dr. Lodha, with the active support from the General Body, wants to “re-activate AAPI – HEALTH- PAC, commonly known as HEALTH- POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE, which will help raise funds amongst its members to advocate its Health Care issues to give a higher profile.” He urged all interested members to support and join the H-PAC by making a contribution, which will handle the HPAC matters and comply with the reporting requirements. Dr. Lodha wants to offer honorary memberships to past US Presidents, Senators and Congressmen, which will “bring us higher level of recognition and profile in the USA.
“In my role as the President of AAPI in the coming year, I will continue to dedicate my services for the growth of AAPI. I am sure AAPI will grow multiple folds under the current team and will put all my efforts to make sure all the programs supersede from the past.”
One of the major objectives of founding AAPI was to offer a platform and opportunities for members to give back to their mother land and the adopted nation. Realizing this, the new President believes that AAPI members will be provided with opportunities to support charitable activities in India and in the United States and increase donations to AAPI Charitable Foundation.
Endowed with the desire to give back to his motherland and lead AAPI to identify and invest in the delivery of cost effective, efficient and advanced medical care in India, Dr. Lodha says, “AAPI does a lot of work in India. The Global Healthcare Summit 2016, planned to be held in Udaipur, Rajasthan, from December 28-30th this year, will be a great way of achieving our objectives for mother India.”
In 2008, Dr. Lodha was part of a coalition that built a state-of-the-art 11 bed Surgical Intensive Care Unit for Government Hospital located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India – free care is given to all the patients. Dr. Lodha in his commitment to the health of the community has organized numerous Health Fairs, Blood Pressure Screenings, and Medical Awareness programs as well as the delivery of educational materials at churches, temples and senior centers.
Financial stability is an important area, where Dr. Lodha wants to focus on as President, and promises “to make sincere efforts in making AAPI financially stronger by increasing fund raising activities.”
His leadership and commitment were much appreciated during the nine city Shreya Ghoshal Fund Raising tour by AAPI. Under the stewardship of Past President Dr. Narendra Kumar, the pioneering event generated a record $1.25 million and transformed AAPI’s financial strength as he took over as a Treasurer in early 2012. He was responsible for bringing complete transparency in accounting and keeping the books up to date.
Dr. Lodha is committed to upholding and further augment the ideals for which AAPI stands. “I am confident that my experience, work ethic and firsthand experience in organizing Conventions and fundraisers are best suited to carry on the responsibilities and lead this noble organization to new heights.” In all of his efforts, Dr. Lodha wants to work with his executive committee and all branches of AAPI membership in a congenial and non-competitive manner, focusing on the noble mission of this prestigious organization. His experiences in organizing conferences and meetings which help to bring members together and attract new members is vital to the success of the organization.
The growing influence of doctors of Indian heritage is evident, as increasingly physicians of Indian origin hold critical positions in the healthcare, academic, research and administrative positions across the nation. With their hard work, dedication, compassion, and skills, they have thus carved an enviable niche in the American medical community. AAPI’s role has come to be recognized as vital among members and among lawmakers. AAPI is also transitioning into a multiyear thinking and behavior by maintaining core continuity.
Dr. Lodha expressed his sincere gratitude and appreciation to the media, for their continued support. ” As it is said by Mark Twain: “There are only two forces that can carry light to all corners of the globe -the sun in the heaven and the media down here.”
Dr. Seema Jain, outgoing President passes over the gavel to Dr. Ajay Lodha
Dr. Lodha calls upon AAPI members to join in this historic journey: “AAPI’s mission is clear, our programs will continue to strive and our impact is infectious on benefiting society. Today I ask you to set aside your differences, and join me in this noble journey to make our mission possible.’
Dr. Lodha lives on Long Island, New York with his wife Dr. Smita and their two children Amit and Shweta. AAPI will continue to be an active player in crafting the delivery of healthcare in the most efficient manner in the United States. “We will strive for equality in healthcare delivery globally.” Dr. Lodha is confident that with the blessings of elders, and the strong support from the total membership of AAPI and his family, he will be able to take AAPI to stability, growth and greater achievements. “A new era has begun. AAPI will continue to discover her own potential to be an active and vital player in shaping the landscape of national healthcare delivery system with a focus on health maintenance than disease intervention,” Dr. Lodha said.
AAPI executive committee along with Regional leaders of AAPI
It was a sea of humanity at Gurdwara Glen Cove annual Vaisakhi Mela on Sunday, June 26. As before, the organizers ensured adequate entertainment for all age groups. There were stores which sold clothing and jewelry. These stores attracted a large number of women. Then there were eateries and free langar which served the best and a variety of eatables. On top of it, there was the entertainment segment. A lot of Bhangra, dances and singing formed part of entertainment.
Mr. Jagjit Singh Bedi, a man with tremendous energy, and Sardarni Manmeet Kaur, the suave lady formed a great team, as usual, to conduct the stage with aplomb. From time to time members of the community and officials were brought to the stage to be recognized.
Mr. George Maragos, Nassau County Comptroller visited the Mela and presented a Nassau County citation to the organizers.
NEW YORK (TIP): Over five hundred followers of Shiv Yog gathered at the “Yes We Can Community Center” Westbury Long Island on June 18 to participate in a five-day intense spiritual discourse by Acharya Ishan Shivanand, younger son and disciple of Avdhoot Baba Shivanand on the occasion of Baba Sivananda Day in North Hempstead.
Acharya Ishan Shivanand Ji demonstrated with clarity transition from humor to profound philosophical expressions and the opening session indicated a promising spiritual and joyful ride of five days for participants in this intense prati prasav,
Baba Shivanand revolutionized healing and presented the science of healing to the world combining modern medicine and ancient Vedic wisdom demonstrating that cure is possible.
Anna Kaplan, Council woman from North Hempstead presented the proclamation to Acharya Ishanji with the declaration of ’18th June’ 2016 in the name of ‘Avdhoot Baba Shivanandji’. She said Baba Shivananda is known to have revolutionized the healing process by combining modern medicine with ancient wisdom.
In his brief remarks after presenting a proclamation from Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos appreciated the contribution of Acharya Ishan Shivanand in empowering youth with leadership qualities. Deputy Comptroller James Garner conveyed his appreciation for the positive teaching of Shiv Yog.
Dilip Chauhan, Prominent South Asian Community Leader/ Director of Southeast/ Asian Affairs, who addressed the gathering in Hindi said the uplifting presence of Acharya Ishan Ji which could draw over 500 people in New York for such an intense spiritual five-day event is commendable.
He said he was elated as an Indian American and lover of Indian culture for the official recognition extended to Baba Shivanand. Shiv Yog Foundation has undertaken many projects to serve the humanity such as feeding the hungry, helping farmers, providing education for the poor, distributing free school uniforms, serving the disowned animals and providing free ration to the needy villagers, Chauhan added.
In his remarks, Acharya Ishan Ji expressed his happiness and praised the Shiv Yogis for their hard work in making the event a grand success. Declaration of 18th June as Avdhoot Shivanand Day in North Hempstead Town of New York demonstrated not just the guru but disciples who disseminate wisdom, goodwill and cosmic power to the universe he said
HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): At the curtain raiser to the IDP USA-India Day Parade 2016, organizers expressed confidence that the parade will draw a bigger number of people and will be larger in size.
Organizers informed that India Day Parade in Hicksville will be organized on Saturday, August 6, 2016 from 3PM onwards. The parade will start from 415 S. Broadway. The culmination of the India Day celebrations will be an entertainment program. The parade came into existence 5 years ago when some of the leading members came forward. The current Advisory Board has y – Bobby K. Kalotee, Indu Jaiswal, Kamlesh Mehta, Jagdish Sewhani, Dr. Raj Bhayani, Peter Bheddah, Dr.Bhavani Srinivasan & Dr. Dev Ratnam. as members.
Hosted by Bobby K. Kalotee and Jagdish Sewhani, the curtain raiser was attended by several community and organization leaders. Dr. Udit Raj congratulated the team for their continued success and provided best wishes for bigger and better parade.
Mrs. Beena Kothari, President of the IDP USA India Day Parade said, “There will be some exciting news coming along with Grand Sponsors and a distinguished public figure/celebrity as the Grand Marshal. Several elected officials, organization groups, leaders will be in presence with bands, dances, rocking entertainment and shopping opportunities through the evening.” Several distinguished community leaders have shown enormous excitement by stepping forward to volunteer. Mrs. Kothari announced her 2016 Parade Executive Council and applauded them for their distinguished contribution and support so far.
The 2016 Parade Committee was announced as below: Jay Singh, Harish Thakkar & Bunty Shah (Vice President) ; Flora Parekh (Secretary); Mukesh Modi (Treasurer); Vimal Goyal & Gautam Sanghavi (Finance); Nilima Madan (Floats & Cars);Vijay Goswamy & Sneha Shah (Booths & Tents); Pradip Parekh (Souvenir); Ajay Batra (Media);Jaya Bahadkar (Cultural); Bina Sabapathy (Marching Groups); Sushil Khanna(Security); Shikha Sehgal (Public Relations); Indira Seet (Community Resource); Jyoti Jikaria (Kids Forum); Kenny Eipstein(IT); Shashi Malik / Anu Gulati (Badges/Sashes); Bharat Goradia & Suhaag Mehta (Entertainment) and several other committee members namely Nishi Bahl; Rekha Chichara; Jyoti Gupta; Amita Karwal; Simran Katyal;Paresh Parekh;Raksha Parekh;Mitesh Parikh;Vipul Sanghavi;Sital Shah; Zinda Singh; Ashok Varshney and many more.
“We have several opportunities to participate – as a float, car or booth sponsor, as a business advertiser to our souvenir which is a he opportunity to showcase your business; complimentary march and advertise your group /organization by joining as a Marching group, exhibit your exceptional talent by participating in our cultural program; be an esteemed sponsor, supporter in many other ways. Any help and every help is welcome” Said Beena Kothari.
“Come one, Come all! This is OUR Parade” Says Bobby K. Kalotee. Several Float, Car and booth sponsors generously came forward during and around the event expressing their generous support to the parade and thereby to the community.
Dr. Udit Rajhonored Beena Kothari with a medal and citation of appreciation for her tireless, selfless andcontinued work and leadership to the community. Several distinguished past presidents, advisors,community leaders expressed their thoughts and best wishes for the continued and growing successof the parade. New updated www.idpusany.org website has easy access to donation buttons, forms,flyers and needed material, was launched.
(Based on Press Release by Flora Parekh, Secretary – IDP USA Inc)
Maharaja comes to Hicksville. Yes, it is the new grocery store and farmers market. The grand opening on Thursday, June 30, saw a large number of customers and owners’ friends and relations. Mr. Gurdip Singh Narula offered prayers (Ardas) for the owners. Mr. Dilip Chauhan, Director with Nassau County Comptroller’s Office, presented a citation to Amandeep Singh Toni, on behalf of the Nassau County.
Speaking with The Indian Panorama Mr. Toni said that Maharaja was a little different kind of store as it offered much more than the existing Indian stores did. He named bakery as an attraction as also availability of meats as another. He said the store supplied Kosher and organic food. In fact, there was a great variety available at the store which is centrally located at Delco Plaza on Broadway.
Mr. Johri quoted Sant Rajinder Singh ji “Honesty begins when ego ends” to emphasize the importance of humility and praised Tony for being humble and gentle. Mr. Dilip Chauhan said additionof a super store indicated the growing enterprise of Indians. He said it made him happy to see Hicksville and Nassau County attracting entrepreneurs. He wished Toni all luck and assured of the County’s help for all small businesses. Mr. Zinda Singh was much impressed with the large store with a rich variety of stuff. He said addition of another store was good for consumers who will benefit from competition among the businesses.
MELVILLE, NY (TIP): India Association of long Island (IALI) honored a couple of achievers at the 37th annual gala dinner on Saturday, June 18th. Those who were honored included Dr. Vaijnath Chakote, Dr. Abhay Malhotra, Dr. Dev Ratnam, Dr. Gaddam D. Reddy, Mrs. Usha and Dr. Parveen Chopra, Dr. Avtar Josen, Padma Shri Pandita Tripti Mukherjee, Mrs. Malati and Harshad K. Shah, Mr. Peter Bheddah, Ritwik Rudra and Akash Wasil.
It was a pleasurable evening at #Hilton #Huntington with a lot of entertainment for the guests who numbered around 400. A number of captivating dance performances made the long hours enjoyable.
In her address, President of #IALI, Mrs. Beena Kothari spoke of the long strides the association had taken as a community organization. She spoke about the various activities of the association and identified members who contributed to a string of successes. She took the opportunity to congratulate and thank honorees, the media and her team.
GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): -On Sunday, June 12th, 2016, the Nartan Rang Dance Academy of Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan presented its annual dance showcase, Nritya Ranjani (now in its 15th year) at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center on Long Island. In attendance were Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos, accompanied by County Director of Southeast Asian Affairs, Dilip Chauhan, who both generously presented the school with a County Citation.
Choreographed by Swati Vaishnav & Siddhi Vaishnav, Nritya Ranjani 2016: Nritya Shailee showcased the various styles & genres of dance through both traditional folk, semi-classical, Bollywood, & even popular Top 40 songs.
The school, which works under the umbrella of renowned non-profit organization Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, had over 75 students in its 2015-2016 year ranging in ages from 4 to 60!
Opening the show was a prayer dance to Gajanana from the film Bajirao Mastani in the Bharatnatyam for m, followed by a catchy swing/jazz number to the Bollywood song Girls Like To Swing. The show catered to all tastes with its inclusive perfor mances in styles such as kathak, fusion, hip-hop, garba, raas, Rajasthani folk, Latin fusion, contemporary folk, Punjabi giddha, & many more. Said artistic director Swati Vaishnav, “We wanted to have a little bit of something for everyone this year & we wanted to make sure our students lear n various forms of dance, while still being enriched by the traditional styles from our South Asian heritage & culture.”
Information about classes for the 2016-2017 year can be found at www.nartanrang.com or by E-Mailing vaishnavswati7@gmail.com.
LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Harry Chapin lakeside Theatre, Eisenhower Park witnessed yet another colorful evening on June 13 when Indian American Night, an annual feature, was celebrated with enthusiasm. Presented by Indian American Forum, the program included Yoga, Health Fair organized by Dr Rakesh Dua and members of AAPIQLI and, of course, delightful dance and music performances.
Yoga and meditation were led by Ranju Narang and Perry Walia with several members joining them.
Jaya Bahadkar Cultural chairperson presented beautiful cultural program reflecting dances from different parts of India. Students from local dance schools participated. Aarti Datta, Jyotika Patel, Satya Pradeep, Archana Dave, Sangeeta Pandit and Monica Bajwa presented attractive performances. Vocal performances were organized by Nilima Madan of Vedic Heritage. Jyoti Gupta, Amita Karwal and T S Taluja from Tri state area entertained the audience with their memorable songs.
This program is part of 2016 summer concert series sponsored by Nassau county Department of Parks, Recreation and Museums. Indian American Night is a showcase of Classical Indian music and folk dances from all regions of India. Nassau county Executive Edward P Mangano, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos, Nassau County Parks Commissioner Brian Nugent, Legislature Kevin Abrahms, Town of Hempstead, Councilwoman Dorothy Goosby andseveral other elected officials and community leaders were present
On Behalf of Nassau County Executive Edward P Mangano, Legislator Rose Marie Walker welcomed everyone and commended the Indian American Community for their outstanding achievements. On the occasion, those presented with Nassau County Awardsincluded Harry Singh, President Bolla Oil Corp; Kusum Gupta, Trustee Vedic Heritage in Hempstead; Anurabh Talwar MD, Endocrinologist North Well Health Medical group; Neelam Modi, Cultural Chairperson IALI; Sangeeta Bahl, President Rotary Sunrise Jericho; Nishi Bahl, President Panache Entertainment, and Beena Kothari, President IALI.
CENTRAL ISLIP, NY (TIP): A federal judge on Wednesday, June 15 set a trial date of Jan. 9 for prominent Long Island restaurateur Harendra Singh, who has been charged with numerous crimes, including bribing a former Oyster Bay deputy town attorney, according to a Newsday report. But Singh’s attorney, Anthony La Pinta, suggested that a trial might not be necessary, telling U.S. District Judge Sandra Feuerstein that there are “ongoing discussions to settle the case … still ongoing.”
La Pinta also said in court that he is preparing a new bail application in the hopes of getting Singh released from jail, because of personal family reasons.
When Singh was arrested in September on a 13-count indictment, six of the counts accused Singh of paying a bribe to a former Oyster Bay deputy town attorney to get an “indirect guarantee” of $32 million in loans for his businesses, including food concessions he ran at town beaches and a town golf course.
Other charges included defrauding the Internal Revenue Service by not reporting millions of dollars in wages paid to employees of his restaurants, and fraudulently collecting almost $1 million from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. That alleged crime refers to Singh collecting the money for falsely claiming his Water’s Edge restaurant in Long Island City was damaged during superstorm Sandy.
Singh has been held without bail since December when federal prosecutors accused him of violating conditions of his release by fraudulently trying to get a new $148,000 loan.
Meanwhile, the Town of Oyster Bay is in a fix on account of the complex situation arising out of the guarantees for loans to Singh and the future management of the properties leased to Singh who had added a couple of investors to overcome his financial woes. It is learnt that the Town administration is aware of an ongoing investigation in to the role of certain Town officials in the deal with Singh and does not want to burn fingers. Therefore, the top officials are said to be of the view that the properties leased to Singh should not go to anyone connected with Singh in any way, including the investors who are said to be keen to remain involved in the business.
MINEOLA, NY (TIP): Mrs. Ragini Srivastava was appointed a member of the Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos’s MWBE Advisory Council recently.
The appointment of Mrs. Srivastava is yet another way of the county recognizing the Indian Americans, who are known to be highly successful, and are known for their achievements in education, high per capita income and business.
The mission of the Council is to assist the county in doubling the participation of the Minority and Women Owned Business Enterprises in the contracting process. The advisory council assists the comptroller’s office in monitoring the county’s compliance with MWBE goals and encourage MWBE firms to participate in county contract opportunities.
Ragini said that by her services she would like to help small businesses explore economic potential and create economic security for other residents of the county. “Being in committee my goal is to motivate and encourage minority women to utilize business benefits through big government incentives. I believe the goals outlined are well matched to my abilities and by different educational workshops and seminars I can assist them in aligning strategic planning in tactical reality”.
Dream to Open Hotels in Nashville, Dallas, Palm Springs, Times Square, Long Island City and Doha, Qatar
NEW YORK, NY (TIP) : Renowned hotel brand and management company Dream Hotel Group LLC signed, May 3, its first hotel in the Middle East with Qatar-based Al Alfia Holding to develop a Dream Hotel in Doha, the state capital.
Sant Singh Chatwal with Sheikh Sultan Bin Jassim Bin Mohamed Al-Thani with whom he signed $300 million Dream -Doha deal in New York, May 3.
To cap off a red letter day, Dream Hotel Group took the opportunity to announce $1.5 billion in new hotel development, including Doha and five other locations, all with independent hotel development partners. Future U.S. locations include Nashville, Dallas, Palm Springs, and two additional New York properties in Times Square and Long Island City.
“We are thrilled that the Dream brand of hospitality, marked by vibrant nightlife and dining opportunities, has resonated so widely,” said Dream Hotel Group CEO Jay Stein. “These six new developments double the footprint of our founding brand and give our loyal guests many more options to explore the other side of themselves.”
The new locations mark a thrilling new chapter for Dream Hotels, the group’s founding luxury lifestyle brand–positioning them as international hospitality innovators. The Dream Hotels brand is on track to have five hotels operating in renowned U.S. cities by early 2019, with an additional opening in Doha, Qatar, Dream Hotels’ first foray into the Middle East.
Sant Singh Chatwal and Sheikh Sultan Bin Jassim Bin Mohamed Al-Thani with Dream Hotel team pose for a photograph, after the signing of deal, in New York. Seen from left to right: Jay Stein, Sheikh Sultan Bin Jassim Bin Mohamed Al-Thani, Sant Singh Chatwal, Johnny De Gouveia
“We’ll be announcing additional properties in the coming months, continuing to solidify our burgeoning portfolio,” added Stein. “The expansion stands as testimony to the passion that the Dream team shows me every day in bringing rich experiences to our guests.”
“We always believed in the Dream brand, but it’s exciting to see so many of our development partners believing in the same dream and turning it into a reality,” noted David Kuperberg, Chief Development Officer, Dream Hotel Group.
The news follows that of the highly anticipated David Rockwell-designed Dream Hollywood slated to open this fall in the heart of Hollywood on the corner of Selma Avenue and N. Cahuenga Boulevard at 6417 Selma Ave.
Dream Hollywood will be a driving force in the ongoing revitalization of Hollywood. The hotel features 179 guest rooms and suites, five dining and nightlife venues in or adjacent to the property, and a spacious 11,000-square-foot rooftop. Developed by FC Development in partnership with Dream Hotel Group, the property is expected to open in September 2016.
Dream Nashville will be located in the heart of the city’s historic downtown–featuring 169 rooms. Designed by Meyer Davis, the property is expected to open in mid-2018, developed by locally owned 4PANT, LLC, which is led by Royal Investments and City Development in partnership with Dream Hotel Group.
Opening in the second half of 2018, Dream Dallas will be a 260-room Dream Hotel Group development.
Slated to open in 2018, Dream Palm Springs will have 175 rooms and will be developed by Praetor Investments/Selene Developments in collaboration with Dream Hotel Group.
The first of two planned New York openings for the group, Dream Times Square will open in the second half of 2018. Designed by Meyer Davis, the 239-room property located in New York’s iconic entertainment destination will be developed by SoHo Properties in partnership with Dream Hotel Group.
Dream Long Island City will see the lifestyle hotel group’s foray into the city’s underutilized Queens Borough, a gallant follow-up to the celebrated Dream Hotels properties in Midtown and Downtown. The 254-key property is expected to open in 2019, developed by Barone Management in Partnership with Dream Hotel Group. Times Square and Long Island City will double the Dream Hotels footprint in New York, totaling four properties in the city.
Dream Doha, which is 300 million dollars project a development with Al Alfia Holding with design by Meyer Davis, will open in late 2019. The ambitious 325-room property, featuring nine dining and nightlife venues, is the first Middle Eastern development for the brand and a pivotal step in the expansion strategy. Joining Dream Phuket Hotel & Spa and Dream Bangkok in Thailand, Dream Doha marks the third international property for the group.
Born in 2004, Dream Hotels are rooted in the insatiable human need to explore the other side of oneself, and the provision of a playground to do just that. With strong foundations in delivering the maximum and highest level experience to guests, each property has upscale amenities, obsessive-meets-compulsive service, built-in nightlife that seems to come naturally, and rare raw energy drawn from some of the most stimulating cities in the world. A far cry from just another bed to lay your head on for a night or two, Dream Hotels offer an introduction to another you. The creation of a new persona for all who experience their properties, Dream Hotels’ visitors push the boundaries of their expectations for hotel stays. For more information or to book your stay, please visit www.dreamhotels.com.
About Dream Hotel Group
Dream Hotel Group is a hotel brand and management company with a rich, 30-year history of managing properties in some of the world’s most highly competitive hotel environments. Home to its Dream Hotels, Time Hotels, The Chatwal and Unscripted Hotels brands, Dream Hotel Group encompasses three business lines: Proprietary Brands, Hotel Management and Dining, and Nightlife. The Company is committed to the philosophy that forward-thinking design, service and guest experiences should be available across market segments. Dream Hotel Group is dedicated to offering travelers an authentic connection to their chosen destination through a truly original approach.
After thoughtful evaluation, and to leverage its world-renowned Dream Hotels brand, the Company decided to sunset both the Hampshire Hotels Management and Debut Hotel Group names. The change to Dream Hotel Group will capitalize on the Company’s most recognized assets to help raise awareness among guests, hotel owners and hotel developers.
