The Indian Panorama

Tag: Long Island

  • World Punjabi Organization New York Chapter Organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations

    World Punjabi Organization New York Chapter Organizes Vaisakhi Celebrations

    The World Punjabi Organization (WPO) organized a colorful Vaisakhi celebration on May 15th at Antun’s by Minar at Hicksville.

    The New York Chapter president Surender Dhall, the First Lady Mrs. Dhall and the organizing committee ensured a memorable evening for a gathering of 300 who all had a great evening of entertainment in the true Vaisakhi spirit

    Ambassador Riva Ganguly Das, Consul General of India in New York was the chief guest while Deputy Consul General Manoj Mohapatra was a guest of honor.

    Some Nassau County officials and politicians, including Nasreen G. Ahmed, Hempstead Town Clerk., graced the occasion.

    The WPO recognized and honored some on the occasion.

    Mr. Sunny Chhabra presenting a memento to Consul General Mrs. Riva Ganguly Das. Also seen are Mr.&Mrs. Surender Dhall and Col.Bhupinder Singh
    Mr. Sunny Chhabra presenting a memento to Consul General Mrs. Riva Ganguly Das. Also seen are Mr.&Mrs. Surender Dhall and Col.Bhupinder Singh
    Ms. Nasreen G Ahmed presenting citationto Mr. Surender Dhall
    Ms. Nasreen G Ahmed presenting citationto Mr. Surender Dhall
  • We are serious in promoting Minority and women in businesses: George Maragos – Nassau County Comptroller

    We are serious in promoting Minority and women in businesses: George Maragos – Nassau County Comptroller

    More often than not Mr. Maragos has been caught in controversies, much because of the nature of his job. Recently, he was embroiled in a running argument with Nassau County Police Chief over his audit report which took the Police department to task for having exceeded the budgetary provisions. Well, that’s the job of the Comptroller, as he said in the interview he gave to The Indian Panorama on May 3, to ensure tax payer’s money is spent wisely.

    contractsHere is the concluding part of the interview. 

    TIP: Are you planning to be the next County Executive?

    M: I have no plans right now. You know I think it’s too early.

    TIP: When do you think would be the right time for you to decide?

    M: September /October. If I want to run again. What I want to run for. My term is up at the end of 2017.

    TIP: And if you decide to run, would it be for the county executive or for some other position?

    M: I haven’t decided. I don’t know what the climate is going to be like the political climate I don’t know what my attitude is going to be may be have Iwould have had enough of government go back into the private sector of our maybe do some nonprofit work out. I don’t know. Depends.

    TIP: Anyway I mean that was good to hear about your vision and I am happy to note that you really. I will go through this in detail and if I have a question I will just send it later on to you.

    M: Of course.

    TIP: But you were a very successful businessman. And what made you to come to the politics?What was it?

    M: Well I was asked to run. I think because of my success I was always a private, a very private person. Very introverted. Minded my own business. You know so it was kind of a shock. That when I was asked if I would consider running. And initially my reaction was, given my background, I said if I decide to run in politics mu goal would be to run for state controller, forexample. But then the party convention says well why don’t you try first at the local level. See what happens and see if you like it and then you know if you’re successful and then we’ll see what the future holds. And so I said. That’s fine I’ll give it a shot.

    Mr. George Maragos with seniors at a Seniors Center 1TIP: I have to just ask you what are your views on what are you planning to do for equal opportunities to all and at the same time special opportunities for minorities? I am not saying women, minorities.

    M: Ok. We highlighted in that demographic study. The county’s populationhas grown to over thirty-five percent minority. The South Asian community we noted in the last twelve years grew from one percent of the population to about eight percent of the population- phenomenal growth. We looked at the historic performance. And the county was spending only about seven to eight percent towards minorities. Even though we had this aspirational goal. And we said we have to do better. We have to as a minimum meet our aspirational goal of sixteen percent. And attempt to do even better. So now it seems that the whole community and the political system is very serious behind promoting Minority and women in businesses.

    TIP: So it is not on the basis of ethnicity only, it is on the basis of gender also.

    M: That’s correct. You know the county’s demographic have changed. The demographics of the police department do not reflect the community. You know they have about eight percent of minorities and women in the police department versus thirty-five percent minorities in our community. And they need to make a much stronger and concerted effort. You know to increase that number. To better reflect the community.

    TIP: So do you think there are enough facilities, welfare measures for seniors given the number of so many people above the age of fifty-five and sixty here?

    M: We go around and I don’t hear very many complaints.I know the county has a very strong outreach program for veterans and seniors and so do the towns. We have. You know a commissioner for veteran’s affairs. We fund a number of non-profits that provide quite a few services to seniors and veterans.

    TIP: You have already spoken about the minorities and that takes care of multi-racial issues also. You have received quite a few honors for your work. What is the honor that you most prize or what is the kind of recognition that you most prize? I know you have received so many recognitions over the years but what is the best you think?

    M: You know. Obviously I have received excellence in financial reporting every year. But I think the most important you know to me is when I go out and meet people. You know. And you know they’re satisfied with the work that we do.

  • We Need Powerful Economic Engines in Nassau County: Comptroller Maragos

    We Need Powerful Economic Engines in Nassau County: Comptroller Maragos

    More often than not Mr. Maragos has been caught in controversies, much because of the nature of his job. Recently, he was embroiled in a running argument with Nassau County Police Chief over his audit report which took the Police department to task for having exceeded the budgetary provisions. Well, that’s the job of the Comptroller, as he said candidly in the exclusive interview he gave to The Indian Panorama on May 3, to ensure tax payer’s money is spent wisely.

    Again, the Comptroller expressed grave concern on flight of large businesses from the County. He was emphatic that in order for Nassau County to grow it is important that there are powerful economic engines. And he detailed how it can be achieved.

    The first part of the interview was published earlier, please click on the following link for the published part of the interview.

    theindianpanorama.news/united-states-america/im-answerable-public-voters-nassau-county-comptroller-george-maragos/

    Here is the second part of the interview.

    TIP: How do you look at the mess? If you have fewer people in the police department they will always be outstretched and stressed. They will not be able to reach out fast enough at the crime scene because you don’t have people and still you are paying them over time. Where is the justification?  You are giving deficient services and paying officers.
    M: Yes.

    TIP: And you know it, I believe.
    M: Yes.

    TIP: Can’t you do something about it as Comptroller?
    A: I think, we did when we issued the report. We issued the report, we questioned the management and we called it systemic, management failures. Because he (police commissioner) wasn’t just managing the overtime. If we consolidate the police precincts. From eight down to four. the county would save eight million dollars.

    TIP: What is it?
    M: Twenty million. That’s what the police commissioner said. And that’s what the county executive said would be the benefit without affecting public safety. So when we went in to say well ok you’ve made these promises to the legislature, to the public, can we see the analysis? What assumptions have you made? And the analysis that showed, given the work rules the unions and the staffing etc., that showed that you would save twenty million dollars. And they couldn’t provide it. Ok. So that is some management failure. Making promises, without basis. That’s an issue.

    TIP: And there are so many issues like these and you keep creating your enemies unnecessarily.
    Your police commissioner is mad.
    M: Absolutely.
    TIP: If you don’t do it, who is going to do it?
    M: Exactly and the same thing happened when the wage freeze was lifted. And there was a new collective bargaining agreement entered into. Again it was represented that the county would be saving about five hundred million dollars over twenty years. Ok. Now we’ve extended it from ten-year analysis to twenty-year analysis to make the numbers big.

    TIP: It feels very good as a resident of Nassau county if we have a watchdog comptroller who is doing his job well. Many cases of corruption could be nipped in the bud. Corruption may not take place at all. Depending upon you and depending upon the kind of district attorney we have.
    M: You know we do our best but you know sometimes things slip through the cracks. But let me also add though that in all the audits that we do and in the press releases that we put out it’s never done to with malice. To harm anybody. You know we never point fingers. We never make it personal. It’s never a personal attack. It’s always; this is the data; this is how the system is working.

    TIP: You’re only a correctional institution.
    M: That’s right. Let’s make it better.

    TIP: The only thing is you don’t put them in jail. I would like to know you might be having a vision how we can make this county a real paradise kind of a place for everybody. If you could give me you know in nutshell what, if at all you have that kind of a vision. You might have also thought how you can do it. If you could let me have that for the benefit of our readers, I would be very happy.
    M: I’d be happy to. I think we released a study two years ago, now a demographic study. And an economic vision for the county and we drew the parallel. That in the 60’s and 70’s Nassau county had two very powerful economic engines. One, it was the aerospace center of the nation. We were the defense arm of the nation. Right here with Grumman in Bethpage, and all of the support industries. We’ve lost that. When we look at 99.99 percent of our companies now in Nassau county are small companies, with less than five hundred employees. So we don’t have powerful economic engine, like the financial industry in the City, like the pharmaceutical industry in New Jersey, like the IT industry in Silicon Valley. We don’t have those. And that’s what you need in a global economy, to be competitive, to be prosperous, to create those high paying jobs. And our vision is, we’ve articulated, that we should draw on our natural strengths, natural resources which right now are our healthcare industry. We have some of the big hospitals; we have some great universities; some world class research facilities. Let’s make them better. Let’s become the healthcare center. This is where people should want to come. We have a lot of Indian and South Asian physicians here. This is where we want people to come to get the best treatments. This is where we should be discovering the next miracle drugs. I think we have the knowhow and the skill. But we have to become even better than what we are. Let’s invest in research and development; let’s encourage our universities and hospitals to become even better to attract some of the best- best professors, best doctors, best research people. And let’s interconnect all those together, having an infrastructure transportation system into the city and inter county, with connections to Macarthur airport, with connections to JFK. And let’s invest in them to improve their capabilities. Have them compete with one another but also cooperate with one another and that is the vision that we have articulated that we should start investing in it.

    TIP: You said, there was a time a couple of years ago you had heavy industries kind of thing, big industries here. They moved out. Why did they move out?
    M: Well they moved out because of various reasons. Obviously, they went to down south to less expensive areas. We’ve had outsourcing of jobs and manufacturing. Not only it went south but they went overseas as well. But you know we’re not going to compete by being low cost. We need to compete by being innovative. By developing new skill sets that require high skill sets that are high paying. And I think thatthose are the industries that we should be fostering and developing. Those should be the future of our county.

    TIP: Don’t you think there is a contradiction? You have not been able to hold back the industry because they found better opportunities elsewhere, lowcost, as you said. That means you are high cost here. So if they moved out, how do you expect others to come to this place where the costs are high because everybody is looking at profits?
    M: I’m a businessman. I believe that if you bring for example, some Nobel scientists here. Plan it to be the basis for the next generation of research facilities. Those people through their work will attract other people-very brilliant, very intelligent people to come. And those people are going to be well paid but it’s not the money that motivates them. It’s the result that they work for. And that’s what we need to attract here. You know and if we built that nucleus then innovations and the results of innovation will attract more very intelligent people. And you’re going to see thriving industries, around those research universities and hospital systems.

    TIP: It’s a wonderful vision. Now the question, is how do you think that kind of a nucleus can be created?
    M: Well, it takes leadership. It takes vision. Leadership and vision. As a county, I think we can become more efficient as a government. I think we can afford to probably invest ten billion dollars. It’ll cost us about two hundred million dollars a year. In a three billion dollars budget I think we can find that money through efficiencies, through our police department being a little more efficient. So that would send a strong signal that we have a vision we are focused on. You know we’re going to bring some of the best minds here. We’re going to support our universities and hospitals to become even better than they are. And we’re going to build the infrastructures; to allow them to collaborate and compete. And also to connect ourselves much better with the city and the financial industry. You know the l.IRR has not been improved in over fifty / sixty years.

    TIP: So you presented it your vision before the legislature?
    M: Yes. And there were public hearings on it and it was very positive. But there isn’t that driving force, that leadership.

    TIP: You mean it is lacking?
    M: Is lacking. The commitment, the leadership. And bringing the resources.

    TIP: Did the legislature approve of this vision?
    M: Well you know they had public hearings on it. And that’s part of it. Doesn’t have to be this vision. And it could be modified. But let’s as a community have a dialogue. We put a vision on the table. Let’s have a dialogue. Involve in it and agree as a community that this is where we want to be in twenty years, in thirty years. And start investing in building it and achieving that.

    TIP: I think you know in order to see to that a part of this vision if not the entire vision, a part of this vision needs to be discussed by the community and the legislature should be told to take note of it.
    M: Yes, but it takes leadership.

    TIP: Come up with possible policies.
    M: But only the county executive can do that. He can say look here’s our vision.

    TIP: Did you discuss it with the county executive?M: Yes.

    TIP: And what was his answer? What was his reaction?
    M: Disappointedly no reaction.

    TIP: And what do you think made him brush it aside or put it under the carpet?
    M: I don’t know. And I don’t ask those questions.

    To be continued 

  • Kannada film actor Harshika Poonacha in New York

    Kannada film actor Harshika Poonacha in New York

    The young and beautiful Harshika Poonacha was in New York and her host Bharat Goradia chose to organize for the leading lady of many popular Kannada films a press conference on May 23 at Senior Care Center of Bobby Kumar in Hicksville.

    In her exclusive conversation with The Indian Panorama editor Prof. Indrajit S Saluja she expressed her admiration for America and Americans. She said it was her second visit to America and she had visited quite a few locations. She said given an option she would like to stay and work in the US.

    Ms Poonacha recalled that she was 15 and studying for her High Schoolin Bengaluruand was with her friends at a coffee shop when a gentleman (she learnt later he was Ramesh, a film maker) approached her with an offer to give her a lead role in a Kannada film he was planning. She thought it was just a ploy of the man to entice her. He said he wanted to make a film on changes young school children undergo.However, soon she learnt that the man was genuine and that his offer was a professional one. That was the beginning of her film career. The incident took place in 2008. And the film -PUC- was released in 2010.

    Harshika is flanked by her host Bharat Goradia (left) and Bobby Kumar (right)
    Harshika is flanked by her host Bharat Goradia (left) and Bobby Kumar (right)

    Harshika said she has since acted in15 films which means an average of 2 films a year. She has worked till now in South movies only. She has worked in 12 Kannada, 2 Telugu and 1 Tamil film. However, she said she was waiting for an opportunity to do a couple of Hindi films. Though there are some offers, she said, she wanted a big launch and was not interested in run of the mill roles.

    For her performance in the movie Tamastu, based on the subject of terrorism, Harshika received the Karnataka State Films Award. Her next big film which has not yet been titled is directed by the famous director Sunit Kumar Desai and is to be released in the next few months.

  • “I’m answerable to the public, to you, the voters” Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos

    “I’m answerable to the public, to you, the voters” Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos

    More often than not Mr. Maragos has been caught in controversies, much because of the nature of his job. Recently, he was embroiled in a running argument with Nassau County Police Chief over his audit report which took the Police department to task for having exceeded the budgetary provisions. Well, that’s the job of the Comptroller, as he said in the interview he gave to The Indian Panorama on May 3, to ensure tax payer’s money is spent wisely.

    Here are excerpts from the interview

    TIP: You took over in 2010?
    M. That’s right

    TIP: And you are the 13th comptroller of Nassau County?
    M: I don’t know if 13 is considered a lucky number or not. But it is number 13.

    TIP: So, you have a wonderful background of Finance; you come from that background?
    M: Yes

    TIP: And this particular position requires to be dealing with Finance only?
    M: No it’s a multi-discipline position like any other senior position in government or in Private Industry. It requires a wide range of skills and talent. This is the Comptroller’s office. There is a large administrative responsibility to manage the office. There’s a lot of accounting and package management that goes with it Finance is very important to control the expenditures to ensure that the county has cash flow, works wisely and cost-effectively but also delivers for the community; make sure that the government and all these agencies are running efficiently; money is spent wisely and they deliver services.

    TIP: Somehow or the other, it’s a very huge responsibility. Nassau County I believe is one of the biggest counties?
    M: Yes. It’s one of the biggest counties but if we were a state we would be about the 33rd biggest We were ranked 33 of all the states. We are bigger than Rhode Island; we are bigger than the state of Delaware, some examples

    TIP: That’s interesting.
    M: you can go down the line; and our budget is more than 3 billion dollars.

    TIP: Sorry for interrupting you. But in terms of budget, do you think you’re bigger than any other state?
    M: Yes. That’s how we measure. In terms of budget and population, as I said we were ranked 33. So we would be bigger than about 17 other states.

    TIP: that gives you a much bigger stature than the comptroller of a state?
    M: Absolutely. We don’t compete with California, Texas or Florida though.

    TIP: One of the greatest responsibilities that probably you shoulder, and you were mentioning so many things. But you said money is to be spent wisely. What do you mean by that?
    M: Well to have the maximum benefit to our residents, in terms of Public Safety services that we provide; maintaining our roads; our infrastructure; makingsure street lights work; we have a fair business environment; provide incentives to business to stay here’ to relocate here. Those are big responsibilities that require significant expenditures of our funds. To provide clean water, some of the basic security, clean water sewage-that we all take for granted. Those are very costly services.

    TIP: If I’m not mistaken, and please correct me if I’m, you don’t have any legislative powers as comptroller?
    M: That’s correct

    TIP: And it is the policies framed by the legislature that you implement?
    M: That’s correct

    TIP: So how do you say that it is the job of the Comptroller to ensure that water is properly given, proper taxes are there? What do you mean by that?
    M: Well the comptroller’s office does not make policies. We don’t say how to spend the money; what are the public priorities. That is up to the county executive and the legislature. But once they decide that they are going to spend (we have 300 billion dollars in expenditure) and they say that we’re going to spend hundred billion dollars on police services, then it’s my responsibility to manage the budget to ensure that the police department stays within its budget and they do a relatively good job in terms of keeping the crime low. That is our responsibility to manage and report. We don’t manage the police department but we have the authority and responsibility to oversee how they spend the money; how they spend it as intended by the legislature and that they operate efficiently and we have low crime. If we are not meeting those objectives, it is our responsibility to go in an audit, find out why and report back to the legislature and the county executive.

    TIP: Do you think you can describe yourself a man with a whip?
    M: Yes; sometimes a whip and a whip stick.

    TIP: That’s where audit comes
    M: That’s where audit comes.

    TIP: I think that is one of the primary jobs of the Comptroller?
    M: It is one of the primary jobs, yes. But the comptroller’s office has functions beyond. Besides audit function we have, as part of our audit function, subpoena power similar to the District Attorney’s. We have an accounting department to monitor and manage the budget for all departments. Then we pay all the bills. All the claims that come through this office will be audited and approved and paid by the Comptroller’s office. We approve the contracts. So, although the County Executive Office submits the contract, the legislature votes on approving those contracts, we are part of the approval process as well. And in some cases even if the county executive estimated the contract, the legislature has approved it we can reject it because we find it’s not good value for the payment and the milestones and performance requirements are clearly defined.

    TIP: But that objection can be overruled by the legislature?
    M: No. They cannot. Actually we have a situation now where we are saying that you want to spend 1.5 million to buy a little app. We think that you can have that app developed in-house or have an outside software firm develop it for 25000 dollars or something like that. So we are refusing that purchase order. We are separate, like almost a third branch of the government.

    TIP: You have that kind of Independence?
    M: Yes. That’s why I am elected. The Comptroller is independently elected from the county executive and the legislature.

    TIP: But you’re answerable to the legislature?
    M: No. I’m not. I’m answerable to the public, to you, the voters. That is a huge difference.

    TIP: Are you not bound by what the legislature decides to do with the spending?
    M: you know I am bound to execute what they vote in terms of approving funding for me. The Comptroller’s office cannot spend money without the legislative approval. But once they decide they want to spend a billion dollars on public safety I need to accept that and make sure that that money is well-spent in terms of contracts that are issued in terms of police overtime. That all the factors that go into maintaining Public Safety, the systems are in place. We manage the payroll; we manage personal benefits. That’s all done in the Comptroller’s office.

    TIP: So what I understand is that you oversee that the funds are ethically used
    M: Yes, and we get value.

    TIP: And that is why sometimes there are issues, like in your latest audit report on the police you took objection to so much money being spent on overtime and you said that there was some kind of a mismanagement kind of thing?
    M: Yes. We pointed that out that they have been consistently, year after year, been exceeding the budget for overtime. And furthermore, we found that there were no processes in place for the management to be aware that a precinct was, let’ssay, using excessive overtime and there was no feedback mechanism for the management to know. And furthermore there were no clear directives as to how overtime should be managed at the precinct level resulting in year over year of overspending on overtime.

    TIP: Well, Mr. Maragos, it’s a question I’m addressing to you to know. Overtime came to be paid because there were not enough hands to perform the duties. So, do you think, as a comptroller, it is better to give employment to more people to avoid overtime which means more than the normal hourly wages. I believe when it is overtime, one gets paid more than the normal hourly wage.
    M: Yes.

    TIP: At the same time, why is it necessary to give them overtime, because probably there are not enough hands?
    M: You see, that is the responsibility of the commissioner. To manage the police force.

    TIP: You find him deficient?
    M: Right so it’s up to him to say look I anticipate I have fifteen hundred officers. Ok, maybe that’s too few or too many. Ok. But that’s what I’m going to have. During this year I’m going to need X dollars in salaries. And I’m going to need Ydollars in overtime. It’s his decision. He is the manager. But once he decides that this is the people that I’m going to have and this is the amount I’m going to spend on over time we expect him to live within the budget. We’re not going to tell him how many officers he should have. He needs to tell the legislature. That he needs X number of officers. To maintain a certain level of public safety and maintain crime law. That’s his job. But once he makes those statements, as a manager he signs up to them. And we expect them, as a comptroller, as an oversight, as a watchdog to live within the commitments that he makes. That’s true in any business, and even the most basic of management responsibilities. To manage within certain guidelines and achieve those results with those guidelines. And normally in business you know that you normally do. Budget conservatively. Promise conservatively. Make conservative goals and try to exceed them. So we want them to do better. But as a minimum, we expect him to do what he promised to do. In terms of managing the budget, interms of the number of resources and stuff that he’s going to need to achieve a certain level of public safety.

    Part Two : https://apple.news/ASS9nB_HYQcyK0dgsHxbajg or theindianpanorama.news/united-states-america/need-powerful-ec…ptroller-maragos/

  • Harendra Singh has defaulted on $15 mn loans

    Harendra Singh has defaulted on $15 mn loans

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Harendra Singh’s lenders have demanded that the town pay more than $14.6 million after Singh defaulted on loans guaranteed by the town of Oyster Bay, according to media reports.

    Town of Oyster Bay has been facing a lot of heat after the Harendra Singh’s indictment last year and the troubles only seems to be growing as Oyster Bay’s credit rating has dropped to junk status after a decade of deficits, weak fiscal management and growing debt.

    The Recovery – In three separate letters dated Feb. 26, representatives with the lending company wrote, “Phoenix Life hereby demands payment from the Town of Oyster Bay.”

    In one of the letters, the attorney and the chief investment forofficer subsidiaries of Connecticut-based The Phoenix Companies demanded payment of $9.1 million for money loaned to SRB Concession Inc., which runs Tobay Beach, and $5.4 million for money loaned to S.R.B. Convention & Catering Corp. which runs the Woodlands catering hall at the town golf course. In 2014, the town board extended the concessions agreements with the Singh companies to 2065 and 2070. Singh sold his shares in the companies to outside investors, but his wife Ruby retains controlling ownership.

    Singh on Sept. 9 was charged in federal court with 13 felony counts including bribing an Oyster Bay official to obtain $20 million in loan guarantees. He has pleaded not guilty.

    A spokesperson for the town says it is not responsible for repaying the loans and has questioned the legality of the guarantees, but legal experts disagree.

    A town spokesperson told News 12 that Oyster Bay officials are currently in settlement negotiations with the lender and new investors. The goal is to avoid a lawsuit and “amicably resolve all issues.” Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto said Wednesday, May 18, that “a lot has occurred” since the letters were sent and referred questions to the town’s outside legal counsel, Jonathan Pickhardt, at Manhattan-based Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan LLP. “Phoenix was in discussion before and after the date of these notices with the investors at the SRB entities,” Pickhardt said Wednesday. “There certainly have been no legal claims that have been filed, seeking to have any court involvement in this.”

    “It continues to be the town’s position that these amendments were not properly authorized, they’re not enforceable,” he said.

  • Indian American Paresh Shah awarded by LIBN

    Indian American Paresh Shah awarded by LIBN

    NEW YORK (TIP): A pre-mother’s day gift from son Paresh Shah emerged in the form of proud moment for mother Kokila Shah at ‘Business in Diversity’ award ceremony during her visit to New York.

    Long Island Business News honored entrepreneurs from diverse background in their “Diversity in Business” awards category at Crest Hollow Country Club, Woodbury last Thursday.

    These awards are designed to highlight the outstanding achievements of business leaders of diverse backgrounds.

    Timothy Williams, Chairman, Nassau County Industrial DevelopmentAgency was the keynote speaker at this event, which was moderated by News 12 Long Island Reporter Virginia Huie.

    Mrs. Shimul Shah, Kokila Shah (mother), Paresh Shah & Parul Shah
    Mrs. Shimul Shah, Kokila Shah (mother), Paresh Shah & Parul Shah

    Indian American honoree from the financial field, Paresh Shah has been a member of prestigious Million Dollar Round Table for past 6 years including 2 years qualification to Court of the Table.

    Interestingly, he graduated as a Chemical Engineer (honors graduate) from the prestigious Indian Instituteof Technology at Karagpur, India.

    Paresh’s shift from Engineering to financial services is designed by circumstances. The untimely death ofhis father made him realize the importance of financial planning. He is passionate about the role ofa financial planner and considers it as an important track for the overall growth and happiness of individuals and families.

    He and his wife Shimul Shah are active in many philanthropic activities and are active members of ‘Swadhyay Parivar’.

  • WORLD PUNJABI ORGANIZATION TO CELEBRATE VAISAKHI ON LONG ISLAND

    WORLD PUNJABI ORGANIZATION TO CELEBRATE VAISAKHI ON LONG ISLAND

    World Punjabi Organization, New York Chapter has decided to celebrate Vaisakhi on Long Island on Sunday, May 15. The organizers claim it will an entertainment filled evening to remember. A meeting of the chapter was held late April where it was decided to organize an evening dedicated to spirit of Vaisakhi.

    The World Punjabi Organization (WPO) is an international body of Punjabis and aims at bringing about Punjabi Renaissance. It is a non-political and non-religious body of prominent Punjabis drawn from diverse fields of activity.

    Members of WPO New York Chapter with President Surender S. Dhall at the meeting which decided to organize Vaisakhi celebrations
    Members of WPO New York Chapter with President Surender S. Dhall at the meeting which decided to organize Vaisakhi celebrations
  • Indian American Dr. Ajay Lodha awarded Ellis Island Medal of Honor

    Indian American Dr. Ajay Lodha awarded Ellis Island Medal of Honor

    ELLIS ISLAND, NY (TIP): Dr. Ajay Lodha of New York joined the ranks of the elite few, May 7, 2016 when he was awarded the prestigious [inlinetweet prefix=”Dr. Ajay Lodha awarded ” tweeter=”” suffix=””]Ellis Island Medal of Honor[/inlinetweet] at a glittering ceremony.

    Founded in 1986, the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations awards Ellis Island medals to Americans who “embody the spirit of America in their celebration of patriotism, tolerance, brotherhood and diversity.” NECO recognizes “individuals who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity; all while maintaining the traditions of their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America.” To date, nearly 2,000 U.S. citizens have received the medal.

    Ninety distinguished individuals were bestowed with the honor this year, among them five of Indian origin. Padma Lakshmi, an author, actress, model, television host and executive producer, and Dr. Rekha Bhandari, an internist in Brooklyn, New York were among other Indian Americans who received the award last week.

    [inlinetweet prefix=”” tweeter=”” suffix=””]Dr. Ajay Lodha is President-Elect of American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI)[/inlinetweet], the largest ethnic medical society, representing the interest of over 100,000 Indian American physicians. He is a past president of Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), Rajasthan Medical Alumni Association (RAJMAAI) and AAPIQLI.

    “I am humbled for being chosen to receive this prestigious award,” Dr. Lodha said soon after receiving the award. “I feel there are a lot more Indians here in the United States, who are doing outstanding job and make us feel very proud. This award is for all of them.”

    Dr. Lodha, a former Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President of Caritas Health Care System representing St. John’s Hospital and Mary Immaculate Hospital, is an Internist by profession. A graduate of RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Dr. Lodha completed his residency at Flushing Hospital, New York, a primary care practice with two locations serving Queens, New York since 1995 and is a partner in Hillaire and Nesconset Nursing homes and is a partner of ACO.

    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.  Dr. Ajay Lodha was appointed a member of the Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos’s MWBE Advisory Council last year.

    Dr. Ajay Lodha with his wife, Dr. Smita and their two children Amit and Shweta
    Dr. Ajay Lodha with his wife, Dr. Smita and their two children Amit and Shweta

    Dr. Lodha will assume office as the President of AAPI during the AAPI Convention on July 3rd, 2016. His vision for AAPI ‘is to increase the global awareness of APPI.  “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.  That younger physicians and MSRF members feel fully integrated into AAPI and take a more active role.” His experiences in organizing conferences and meetings which help to bring members together and attract new members which is vital to the success of the organization. Dr. Lodha lives on Long Island, New York with his wife Dr. Smita and their two children Amit and Shweta.

  • ‘Fair and equitable treatment under the law applies to everyone’: Preet Bharara

    ‘Fair and equitable treatment under the law applies to everyone’: Preet Bharara

    HICKSVILLE, NEW YORK (TIP): The 10th Biennial Civic Luncheon held by Queens Civic Congress (QCC) was a huge success with capacity attendance, a well-organized program with keynote speaker Preet Bharara, prominent U.S. Attorney for the Southern District, New York as well as featured speaker, Queens Borough President Melida Katz and several other notable elected officials. The event was sponsored by Queens Civic Congress Foundation and held at Antun’s in Queens Village.

    QCC Honorees with Officials: Barry Grodenchick, Karen Koslowitz, Nily Rosic, Tony Avella, Barry, Melinda Katz, and Preet Bharara
    QCC Honorees with Officials: Barry Grodenchick, Karen Koslowitz, Nily Rosic, Tony Avella, Barry, Melinda Katz, and Preet Bharara

    Paul Kerzner, President, Queens Civic Congress Foundation, welcomed the guests, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance then a beautiful rendition of the National Anthem by Hon. Melinda Katz. QCC president Harbachan Singh welcomed members and guests, acknowledging the important role of members and officers for the successes of QCC activities focusing on improving the quality of life issues. Mr. Singh also expressed due gratitude and outlined several future plans,

    Presentation of various proclamations and resolutions to the 3 honorees was done by Hon. Melinda Katz and NYS Senator Tony Avella. In his remarks, State Sen. Tony Avella congratulated QCC and the honorees, citing the advocacy of QCC on community issues Kevin Forrestal, executive vice president of QCC, made presentations on behalf of several elected officials.

    In her speech, Hon. Melinda Katz thanked QCC for its issues oriented community efforts and remarked on the appeal, diversity and progress in Queens which is fast becoming the destination of visitors to New York.

    Preet Bharara delivers his address
    Preet Bharara delivers his address

    Keynote speaker Preet Bharara was introduced by Vice President Ashook Ramsaran with a warm welcome of admiration and appreciation. Mr. Bharara recounted his family’s journey from India to USA and the many opportunities in the USA which contributed to his success as a notable and quite visible official in New York State and indeed the entire USA. Bharara reiterated determination and relentless pursuits of his office to enforce and encourage accountability in all sectors, and provide protection from predators and those who do not abide by the rule of law. He said that “fair and equitable treatment under the law applies to everyone regardless of position or standing and is a cornerstone of United States of America”.

    QCC Civic Achievement Awards 2016 for high achievements in community service were presented to: James Gallagher, Jr. (President, Fresh Meadows Homeowners Civic Association) presented by QCC vice president Kim Ohanian; Warren Schreiber (President, Bay Terrace Community Alliance) presented by QCC vice president Tyler Cassell; Christina Wilkinson (President, Newtown Historical Society) presented by QCC treasurer James A. Trent.

    Other elected officials in attendance included several NYC council members and NYS senators and assembly members. NYS Assemblyman David Weprin congratulated QCC and the honorees for outstanding community work.

    QCC vice president Richard Hellenbrecht made the concluding remarks, citing several QCC initiatives and support for many important community issues. Hellenbrecht also welcome the youth group of Civic Activism Network (CAN) and thanked Elmhurst United for supporting CAN’s participation.

    Music was provided by John Walters.

    Queens Civic Congress, Inc. and Queens Civic Congress Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) corporation, were formed in 1997, representing more than 100 civic and other community organizations throughout the Borough of Queens in New York City, and are committed to the protection and advancement of the “Quality of Life”, to provide a forum for the civic associations and neighborhood organizations, to develop and present common policies and positions, and to furnish effective leadership and advocacy for the advancement of the welfare and interests of Queens’ neighborhoods.

    For more information, contact: Harbachan Singh (President) 4harbachan@gmail.com Cell: 1-917-749-8769

     

  • International Women’s Month celebrated at the Indian Consulate

    International Women’s Month celebrated at the Indian Consulate

    NEW YORK CITY, NY (TIP): Ekal Vidyalaya Foundation and Indian Consulate, New York, on March 24, jointly celebrated ‘International Women’s Month’, focusing on, Women’s Empowerment through education. The event provided the first opportunity for newly appointed Consul General , Riva Ganguly Das to interact with the diverse Indian community for vibrant exchange of ideas.

    Dr. Anila Midha, a Physician who took the helm for the evening explained to the capacity-gathering the main objective of the event and introduced various participants.

    In her welcome address, Ambassador Das provided an overview of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao as a flagship initiative of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whereby a third of ‘Village Panchayats’ have been decreed to have women in responsible positions. She acknowledged that, though great strides are being made to empower women, a lot yet needs to be done to change age-old attitudes and beliefs affecting women in our society, and especially in rural areas. She expressed the hope that the grass-root organizations like Ekal, with presence in 60,000-plus villages can play an important role in it.

    Aroon Shivdasani, president of the Indo American Arts Council gave the Keynote address. She stressed the importance of educating men as much as women to create an environment in families where self-esteem of individuals is not compromised Ranjani Saigal, Executive Director of ‘Ekal Vidyalaya’, touched on the need to uphold the standards set by parents who precipitated in her own academic success at IIT and MIT. She further elaborated a story how during a visit to a rural area a girl asked her, “what can I do in my village what you have done out there?” According to her, the question has dogged her ever since while she is working at Ekal. She informed that Ekal puts special emphasis on educating girls and making them self-reliant though various skills-training, in rural-tribal areas.

    Dr. Urmilesh Arya, C.O.O at Gastroenterology Associates in Brooklyn and a trustee of Hindu Center in Flushing, brought to fore a critical challenge for girls in accessing education – the fear that their daughter would get romantically entangled with a boy, which may bring shame to the family. She herself overcame this challenge and many others with self-conviction and courage.

    Dr. Sunita Saini, and Director of South Shore Psychological Services and Long Island Psychology and Psychotherapy Services, highlighted the importance of having a supportive family who, regardless of gender, values building their children’s career more rather than acquiring material assets.

    There was a resounding agreement that when a woman is educated, she educates her entire family. The ensuing discussion highlighted the relevance of good health for women as a strategy towards empowerment. The panel cautioned that overcoming the socio-cultural biases that promote female infanticide and the perception that a girl is a burden are major stumbling blocks in restoring dignity of women in our society.

    Mr. Vinod Jhunjhunwalla the President of Ekal Foundation, USA and Prof. Subash Midha, the main Ekal coordinator for the event thanked the Indian Consulate, for their support in hosting this event.

  • “If Winter Comes, Can Spring be far behind?” RANA Celebrates arrival of Spring

    “If Winter Comes, Can Spring be far behind?” RANA Celebrates arrival of Spring

    MELVILLE, NY (TIP):The Spring Festival Celebrations organized by RANA, March 26 saw more than 1000 people from many Indian Communities gather together and celebrate the festivities under one roof.

    RANA continues to be a trendsetter by organizing this one of a kind event titled – ‘GLAMOUR WITH HUMOUR’-  a combination of a Fashion Show, Dance Performances and Standup Comedy & Poetry held in the Tristate area for the first time.

    Impressive classical dance performance by renowned Bollywood & TV actress Prachee Shah Pandya
    Impressive classical dance performance by renowned Bollywood & TV actress Prachee Shah Pandya

    Speaking on the occasion, RANA President, Naveen C Shah mentioned that “As part of meeting the organization’s charitable objective of caring for orphans, the RANA Board has decided to adopt 1000 children in orphanages in India over their lifetime and support them for all operational expenses including food, shelter, clothing and educational requirements. We need $250,000 to achieve this objective and I urge all those present to donate generously to this noble cause by contributing financial and intellectual resources to achieve this goal.”

    A spectacular Fashion Show with the trendiest, glamorous and latest styles by leading designers with stunning & gorgeous models choreographed by Nishi Bahl of Panache Entertainment interspersed by electrifying dance performances by students of Arya Dance Academy arranged by Shilpa Jhurani entertained the packed audience. A classical dance performance by renowned Bollywood & TV actress – Prachee Shah Pandya and standup comedy and satirical poetry recitals by renowned poets and comedians from India, moderated by the incomparable Master of Ceremonies – Shailesh Lodha and his team of poets – Dinesh Kumar, Mahendra Kumar & Vishnu Dayal Saxena were the highlights of the evening. Attendees were also seen  enjoying shopping in the exhibitions area – ‘Basant Ritu Bazaar’ featuring designer clothing, fashion jewelry, ethnic foods and artifacts & handicrafts from India Traditional Indian & Rajasthani cuisine catered by Mint Caterers was a great attraction with the visitors. Hospitality was provided by Hilton Huntington Long Island, Decorations by Exclusive Events, Sound & Light by DJ Parminder and Video and Photography by 3D Digitals.

    RANA could justly be proud of adding another memorable event to its long list of unforgettable events.

    Money makes the mare go.

  • Hum Hindustani hosts Community Reception to Ambassador Riva Ganguli Das

    Hum Hindustani hosts Community Reception to Ambassador Riva Ganguli Das

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Hum Hindustani took the initiative to gather the community and business leaders on Easter Evening to welcome the new Consul General of India, Mrs. Riva Ganguly Das to Long Island in New York.

    Hum HindustaniAmbassador Das spoke about the services being provided at the Consulate and assured the community that the Consulate was committed to not only providing “efficient and clean services” but she would ensure the Consulate served as a bridge between Indian and Indian American businesses. She said she believed in open door policy and would welcome everyone to the Consulate and any suggestion from the community.

    George Maragos, Nassau County Comptroller who was Guest of Honor, presented a citation to Ambassador Das. Zahid Syed, Chairman, Human Rights Commission represented the County Executive Edward Mangano andpresented Nassau County Proclamation to the Ambassador.

    Earlier, Ambassador Das was warmly welcomed by Hum Hindustani publisher Jay Jasbir Singh.

    A number of dance performances presented by various age groups added color and charm to the evening which folded up with a dinner.

  • India Association of Long Island Creates Visions of India with Colors of Holi

    India Association of Long Island Creates Visions of India with Colors of Holi

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Spring on the Island had a warm and colorful welcome by India Association of Long Island’s (IALI) colorful Holi festivities. Under the leadership of President Beena Kothari and her Executive Council, this year’s Holi celebration saw varied colors and shower of Talent by young kids and executive members. Over 100 kids exhibited their exceptional talent of dancing, singing, poetry and music followed by a breathtaking elegant Fashion Show by IALI Executive Council. The grand celebrations started with several dance schools, individual participants and committee members showering their talent for over 3 hours. An exotic mix of East and West, Bollywood, Hollywood, Classical (Bharatnatyam, Oddissi, Kuchipudi, Kathak)  and several other classical & traditional performances exhibited the unique culture and colors of India. Kids of age groups 3 and above performed with their hearts. Melodious songs and musical instruments were played. Over 27 dance schools and individual choreographers participated in the grand celebrations. The performances were so entertaining that the audience wanted the show go on and on. All kids / participants were awarded with Trophy’s and Appreciation Certificates.

    The highlight of the show was the Grand Fashion Show! Beautifully choreographed, executed and performed by the Executive Council of IALI, this unique & elegant display of latest fashion, breathed a fresh wave of Spring in the air. The show portrayed the ocean of talent within the members of the organization. Together, the executive committee portrayed the festival significance of the arrival of spring, therebycelebrating a festive day to meet and greet with the aim to fill colors of happiness in the lives of their near and dear one’s.

    The presence of Nasrin G. Ahmad, Town Clerk of the Town of Hempstead along with several sponsors and well-wishers and the ongoing support of media and community made the event a huge success. Zaveri Insurance, HAB bank, AHAI, RealtyConnectUSA, Navika Capital, Omni Mortgage, Oberoi & Tur Group, Vas Pipes were some of the sponsorsAudience were thrilled to win several exciting raffle prizes sponsored by executive members and community leaders. The event concluded with sumptuous dinner and desserts.

    IALI President, Mrs. Beena Kothari, addressed the audience and thanked various community leaders, media, sponsors, supporters, volunteers and everyone for their tireless dedication to the betterment of the organization and their ongoing support to all the activities of India Association of Long Island.

  • Indian American Forum Recognizes Women Achievers

    Indian American Forum Recognizes Women Achievers

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Indian American Forum presented, Thursday March 25, the Fifth Annual Outstanding Women’s Achievements Awards, as part of Women’s History month, in recognition of the contributions made by women in the Tri-State area of New York.

    IAF Chairperson Indu Jaiswal speaks about the organization and the awards
    IAF Chairperson Indu Jaiswal speaks about the organization and the awards

    Five women who excelled in their professions and community services received the Outstanding Women’s Achievements Awards

    Dr Manjeet Chadda, Professor of Radiation & Oncology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, for dedication in Medicine and Community Services

    Dr Runi Mukherji Ratnam for dedication in Education & Social Services

    Sunita Sadhnani for dedication in Business Development and community services

    Judi Bosworth, Supervisor for the Town of North Hempstead

    Meera T Gandhi for dedication as Humanitarian and Social promotions

    Jyoti Gupta for her dedication in Music and Cultural promotions

    Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano said in a message:”The Indian American Forum has established a distinguished record of excellence, working diligently on behalf of causes and ideals, which uphold the principles of Human decency and brotherhood”.

    Honorees with dignitaries
    Honorees with dignitaries

    Citations were presented to honorees and they were praised fortheir efforts and congratulated for their achievements. Among the gathering, several elected dignitaries were present who included Ms Judi Bosworth, Supervisor for the Town of North Hempstead, who was also one of the honorees, Councilwoman Hon. Dorothy L Goosby, and Town Clerk from Town of Hempstead Nasrin Ahmed. Among the gathering were seen a former President of IALI Satnam Singh Parhar, HAB Bank VP Rizwan Qureshi, and Dr. Dev Ratnam whose wife Dr. Runi Mukherji Ratnam was one of the five honorees.

  • RANA Spring Festival on March 26 Promises to Lift Visitors’ Spirits

    RANA Spring Festival on March 26 Promises to Lift Visitors’ Spirits

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): Rajasthan Association of North America have invited all Indians residing in the Tri-State area to the Spring Festival Celebrations on Saturday March 26, 2016 at Hotel Hilton, Long Island Huntington, Melville NY 11747 from 2.30 pm onwards.

    Under the inspired leadership of President Naveen C Shah, RANA has successfully organized the Rajasthan Mahotsav – Festival of Festivals 2015 with over 3000 attendees from the Indian community, complete with a grand parade featuring elephants, horses and camels to various dance & musical performances showcasing the variety and depth of Indian culture. The Deepavali celebrations in November 2015 was another monumental sensation with over 600 people packing the Grand Ballroom at the Long Island Marriott and were entertained by the sensational music trio from India – Dhwani.

    In his address to the Community Leaders at the kick-off meeting held recently, Naveen C Shah mentioned that RANA has proven that we can celebrate all our festivals on one common platform. We want to continue this practice this year by organizing the Spring Festivals Celebrations.

    A press release issued by RANA says, “Our program for the 2016 SPRING FESTIVALS Celebrations includes a Fashion Show event showcasing the attire of different states from India by top fashion designers, a segment on Wedding Day Attire by Community members and cultural performances. This will be followed by a Kavi Sammelan featuring renowned poets and satirists from India, emceed by the incomparable Shailesh Lodha. We expect over 1000 people to attend the event.

    “RANA is committed to promote the rich culture of India by observing many traditional festivals and celebrating them in North America periodically. We expect people from all Communities – Rajasthani’s, Gujarati’s, Punjabi’s and all other Indian Communities to attend the day’s events and partake of the celebrations. RANA aims at bringing about harmony and celebrating the festivals of India jointly with other communities to foster the spirit of brotherhood and comradeship.”

    Tickets cost only $75 each and include Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Snacks, Dinner and entrance to the Fashion Show, Cultural Entertainment, Kavi Sammelan & Exhibitions area.

    RANA President Naveen C Shah said, “We would like to extend an invitation to Indians from all communities to come celebrate the Spring Festivals like it is celebrated in India -complete with Traditional Cuisine, Color, Pomp & Pageantry, Music, Fashion Show, Cultural Entertainment and Kavi Sammelan with a promise to relive the Glory of Indian festivals in New York.”

    RANA is a non-profit, tax-exempt organization under section 501 (c) (3) of Internal Revenue Code, incorporated in the state of New York.

    The Board of Directors include Beena Kothari Sneha Shah Ajay K Jain Ravi Jargad Ravi Lashkery Ajey Jain, MD Shashi Shah, MD Narendra Hadpawat, MD Vinod Jain, Animesh Goenka, Mahesh Maheshwari, Dashrath Dugar, RajeshShah, SudhirSachdev, Vinod Sancheti, MD Nimmi Mehta, and Neelima Goyal

    For more information, please visit our website www.ranausa.org or contact rajesh.lalwani@navikacapital.com for more details.

  • HAB BANK Hosts Healthcare Professional Dinner on Long Island

    HAB BANK Hosts Healthcare Professional Dinner on Long Island

    GARDEN CITY, NY (TIP): HAB BANK, nation’s oldest and largest South Asian American bank, hosted a dinner for Healthcare Professionals at Akbar Restaurant, Garden City, New York, Sunday, March 6, 2016. The event was organized under the auspices of Mr. K.K. Mehta, President & Senior Partner of K.K. Mehta Associates PLLC.

    Mr. Saleem Iqbal, President & CEO of HAB BANK welcomed invited guests and thanked them for taking the time out, during a weekend, to be at the Healthcare Professional dinner. He advised the guests that HAB is honored and thankful to Mr. K.K. Mehta for co-hosting the event with HAB. Mr. Iqbal, in his presentation highlighted the rich history and strengths of HAB. During his presentation, Mr. Iqbal announced HAB’s new product solely targeted to Healthcare Professionals especially doctors. HAB’s new Healthcare Professional loan goes up to $500,000 and can be used for various purposes including working capital, equipment acquisition, and Insurance premium financing. He pointed out that the loan decisions are made within 72 hours once the documentation requirements are complete. Mr. Iqbal told the guests that the Bank believes in building long-term relationships and has a wide range of products and services such as online banking, Remote Deposit Capture, Merchant Services for businesses. He also brought up the Bank’s Commercial Real Estate loans designed to help investors acquire properties with loans up to $5,000,000. Mr. Mehta, in his remarks, thanked the guests for their presence and being part of dinner highlighting HAB Bank’s Healthcare Professional loans and other services for individual and businesses. He urged the guests to consider moving to HAB Bank and establishing their relationship. However, he clearly mentioned that in order to maintain integrity and independence, he, nor his firm, KK Mehta CPA PLLC, does not enter into any alliance with third party organizations. The attendees should evaluate their banking needs on their own, and KK Mehta CPA PLLC does not take any responsibility.

    HAB’s management was in attendance including, Rizwan Qureshi, SEVP, Zilay Wahidy, EVP, Nasir Khan, SVP, Kamal Puri, Branch Manager Jackson Heights, Mehmood Syed, Senior Business Development Officer, Danial Tariq, Manager Hicksville Branch, Ismail Ahmed, Manager Richmond Hill Branch, Girish Vazirani, Manger Iselin Branch, and Moazam Ali, Hicksville Branch.

    ABOUT HAB BANK: HAB BANK was founded in 1983 and since its inception, it has played a key role in nurturing and strengthening the South Asian community with branch network located in New York, New Jersey and California. Through the years, the Bank has evolved in response to needs of its customers and maintains a close relationship with the community it serves. The Bank’s core products are Commercial Real Estate Mortgages, International Trade Services, US Small Business Loans and a well-designed commercial banking products and services for small to medium sized businesses. The Bank also has a wide range of consumer products and services including personal checking, savings, CDs, and full-service online banking. The Bank is fully committed to remain engaged and pro-active in meeting the banking requirements of its customer and, above all, continues to work towards “Building Relationships”.

    ABOUT K.K. MEHTA CPA ASSOCIATES PLLC : K. K. Mehta CPA Associates PLLC is a full service accounting, tax and consulting firm serving the New York Metropolitan region since 1978. Firm’s clients range from individuals to multi-national organizations of all types and sizes. The company serves a broad range of industries and professions. Our firm is committed to providing the highest level of professional and personalized services in a cost effective manner.

    K.K. Mehta CPA Associates are one of the largest accountants for healthcare and hospitality industry. The firm strives hard to look for strategies and techniques to minimize your taxes and assist you in growing your business.

  • Indian American Anu Jain wins admiration at Fine Art and Photography Exhibition – “Truth & Beauty”

    Indian American Anu Jain wins admiration at Fine Art and Photography Exhibition – “Truth & Beauty”

    MINEOLA, NY (TIP): As part of the National Women’s Heritage Month celebrations, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos presented a Fine Art and Photography Exhibition on 2nd March at the Theodore Roosevelt Executive Legislative Building in Mineola, New York. The exhibition’s title “Truth & Beauty” was inspired, probably, by the famous English poet John Keats’ Ode on a Grecian Urn’ wherein the poet says: ‘Beauty is truth, truth beauty, —that is all / Ye know on earth, and all ye need to know.”

    Anu Jain poses with her award in front of her entries in the exhibition
    Anu Jain poses with her award in front of her entries in the exhibition

    The success of the exhibition can be judged from the number of artists participating in the two main categories-Art and Photo. Fifty-five distinguished female artists and photographers participated. The paintings at the Exhibition were done in both water color and oil and included portraits and landscape.

    Anu Jain is flanked by Nassau County Chief Deputy Comptroller James Garner (right) and Dilip Chauhan, Director, South East and Asian Affairs in the office of Nassau County Comptroller
    Anu Jain is flanked by Nassau County Chief Deputy Comptroller James Garner (right) and Dilip Chauhan, Director, South East and Asian Affairs in the office of Nassau County Comptroller

    Anu Jain, the only Indian American artist showcased two of her paintings -” Freedom-the Beauty of Life” in oil on canvas and the other,” Jesus”. She made the community proud with her work and got accolades and recognition from not only fellow artists and organizers but from a large number of guests from Indian-American community which included community leaders, prominent businessmen and leading media personalities.

    Anu Jain, as other artists, took in a stride the challenge of entering the world of art in a large format that expressed the feminine spirit- a moment in the life of a woman- Past, Present and Future – with one dominant figure as the main focus.

    A group of participants in the Women’s History Month Art and Photography Exhibition- “Truth & Beauty”.
    A group of participants in the Women’s History Month Art and Photography Exhibition- “Truth & Beauty”.

    Many of the pieces of artwork presented depicted a global outlook on women’s issues and concern in a realistic style while others were Semi-abstract and symbolic, inviting the viewers to add their own interpretation.

    The esteemed panel of judges was asked to score based on each participant’s excellence in the chosen art medium, expression of the theme and total presentation. The panel of judges included professors of art from finest local universities as well as renowned award winning artists and photographers. The invited judges included Robert Carter, Notable Artist; Emi Gomez, LIU Post Department of Art Professor; Kellyann Monaghan, Adelphi Professor; Gabriel Marques, Notable Artist; Catherine White, Renown Artist; and Xio Xiomaro, Notable International Photographer.

    The curators included Carla Hall D’Ambra and Minna Dun.

    The event was attended by over 200 guests. The host, Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos was conspicuous by his absence. His Deputy Chief James Garner filled the bill. Also present was Dilip Chauhan, Director, South East and Asian Affairs in the office of Nassau County Comptroller.

    Jostyn Hernandez, Director of Communications, Nassau County Comptroller’s Office was kind enough to provide a list of winners just in time to include in the report.

    Winners in the Students category
    Winners in the Students category

    Student: 1st – Samantha Hofsiss; 2nd – Brianna Purdue; and Honorable Mention – Teresa Langone

    Art: 1st – Joanne Von Zwehl; 2nd – Katherine Trunk; 3rd – Shenna Vaughan; and Honorable Mention – Nicole Franz

    Photo: 1st – Jennifer Shea; 2nd – Jennifer Formica; 3rd – Michell C. Delmonte-Synnott; and Honorable Mention – Marzena Grabczynska

  • Sikh Community Says Construction Unfairly Stopped at Temple: Report

    Sikh Community Says Construction Unfairly Stopped at Temple: Report

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Members of a Long Island Sikh temple believe construction at their place of worship was unfairly stopped by the local government, Newsday reported.

    On Feb. 2, the Plainview Town Board stopped construction of the temple after residents complained of parking and congestion problems. Residents argue that the off-street parking plan for the temple does not meet requirements.

    About two dozen members of the congregation attended a Plainview board meeting Tuesday to either voice their concerns or show support for those who spoke, according to the report.

    “We got blindsided,” Gurmeet Sodhi, 41, a television producer from Northport told Newsday.

    “Everything was approved, everything was moving along; why did we stop this?” she told the paper.

    John Venditto, Plainview Town Supervisor, told Newsday they are looking for a compromise with the Sikh community.

    “There’s a sense in the community that maybe this project is too big,” Venditto said. “There’s concerns about traffic and concerns about parking.”

  • An Artist’s Long Haul

    An Artist’s Long Haul

    Anu’s journey started many years ago with some odd strokes, but very soon she found herself glided into the world of colors. Today, she has set up her studio in her house where she spends hours practicing art. Each canvas is approached with a feeling of excitement, wonder, and a sense of adventure.

    An Artist’s Long Haul 1Here is what Anu says about herself and her love of art. “I feel the divine presence in nature, people and birds. I relate to places where I have lived and I try to bring out the essence of that place through my creations. Each painting to me is a record of an extraordinary moment of existence, a confirmation in the reality of the journey of the spirit.

    “I yield to a greater force. I find I am able to connect on a level that I cannot verbalize. I believe that through the language of art and the engagement of color I am able to communicate at the highest vibrational level. Colors to me are like a time line and portrait of the inner self which I attempt to interrelate vigorously, creating a symphonic vibration with a freedom that cannot be taught and I hope to convey a message of peace to all through my paintings.”

    Born in Dhar, the picturesque district of Madhya Pradesh, India, Anu’s interest in art started in her teenyears. After moving to Mumbai, she pursued her career as an artist by working with a renowned artist and gained practical knowledge of art in different mediums.

    An Artist’s Long Haul 2
    Dynamism. Water and acrylic color

    Anu related her initial forays in to the world of art and the journey beyond. She said, “Despite my education in finance, I love doing oil paintings. After my graduation in finance I came to Mumbai, where I, professionally got into the creative work of art and crafts. In addition to my expressions in oil and water color paintings, I have done creative work in Fabric painting, Stained glass work, Pottery work Ceramics Commercial work, etc.During this period, I developed a better understanding of art. As a free-lancer, I have painted a series of paintings, some of which are titled Beauty and the Peacock, Hindu God Lord Ganesha, Rajasthan’s Palaces, Dancing Horses, Water Falls, The Child, and many more titles”.

    She has had had several exhibitions of her paintings in Kolkata, Mumbai, Dubai and Singapore.

    She is all set to exhibit herwork in upcoming group show named “Truth & Beauty” on the occasion of Woman History Month on 2nd March, 2016 which is presented by Nassau County Comptroller Mr. George Maragos at Theodore Roosevelt & Legislative Building, 1550 Franklin Ave., Mineola, NY 11501An Artist’s Long Haul3

    In this show, one of her paintings named “Freedom – The Beauty of Life” is being showcased. In this painting, two white doves which are symbolic of peace are being freedby the lady, which is giving message of freedom from within her soul and showing inner beauty. Through the painting, says Anu, “I have tried to convey my message of peace and freedom”.

    → For further detail of her previous work please visit her page ‘Anu’s Art” on Facebook link: https://www.facebook.com/Anujainart/

    Anu can be reached at Jainanu2005@gmail.com and phone no. 516-728-4186

     

  • Nassau County top Executive Edward Mangano battles sexting allegations

    Nassau County top Executive Edward Mangano battles sexting allegations

    MINEOLA: He runs one of America’s largest suburban counties and has repeatedly deflected questions about federal probes of political cronies and personal friends. But until last week, Nassau County Executive Edward Mangano never had to utter one of the most dreaded phrases of 21st-century politics: “I have not sexted.”

    The 53-year-old Long Island Republican, a married father of two, found himself the focus of a television report on the eve of Valentine’ Day that alleged sexually suggestive texts were sent from his phone to a public relations executive who received two no-bid county contracts worth nearly $50,000.

    Mangano responded on camera that someone had obviously hacked into his phone, an explanation that drew immediate comparisons to former New York Congressman Anthony Weiner after he was accused of sexting in 2011.

    “I am outraged at this smear attempt and will take legal action against the sick individual who has sought to assassinate my character and hurt my family,” Mangano said in a statement.

    Investigating such a case involving one of Long Island’s most powerful politicians raised questions, particularly since Mangano is the chief executive of a county of 1.3 million people and has control over a $2.9 billion budget, 7,250 employees, public works, social services and, most notably, the police.

    A police news release issued after the TV report said that 10 days earlier, Mangano had filed a complaint claiming he was the target of a social media “spoof.” Police said WCBS-TV provided investigators with a document from an anonymous source that appears to be a cut-and-paste of sexually suggestive texts from an ‘Ed M.’ and tweet from Karin Caro.

    The Associated Press is not publishing the alleged texts because police wouldn’t confirm their contents. Authorities also declined to say whether the number belonged to Mangano’s personal cellphone or a government-issued phone.

    Police said Mangano and the 40-year-old Caro, who runs a public relations company, have “no record of any such text or tweet.” They said detectives also reviewed Mangano’s social media account and found no record of a tweet. Caro, according to the police statement, said she never had social media communication with Mangano, nor does she have his cellphone number.

    In a video Caro produced that was put on YouTube in 2013, she is shown interviewing Mangano in his office, thanking him for “giving a regular girl like me the opportunity to sit down with you; I mean, you’re an amazing guy.”

    Caro issued her own statement saying that she and Mangano had been “maliciously attacked” and that the texts were fabricated. She said she was currently “going through a trying period of my life regarding abuse and attacks” but declined to elaborate. Calls to Caro and her attorney from the AP seeking further comment were not returned.

    Caro received two contracts to provide “unique expertise” in promoting special events for the county’s parks department. The contracts were for just under $25,000, a sum that does not require county legislative approval.

    Mangano, serving his second four-year term, has also come under scrutiny over his political ties to former state Sen. Majority Leader Dean Skelos, a Nassau resident who was convicted in December of conspiracy, bribery and extortion.

    One of Mangano’s close friends is a restaurateur facing federal charges of bribing a town official. The restaurateur, Harendra Singh, arranged and paid for vacations for the county executive and his family, according to Newsday. Mangano has denied wrongdoing and has not been charged with a crime.

    In 2013, Police Commissioner Thomas Dale resigned after interfering in an election-year dispute over petition signatures for a third-party candidate for county executive. Former District Attorney Kathleen Rice found no evidence of criminal wrongdoing but said Mangano must “look beyond that threshold and evaluate the actions of the department for ethical and administrative propriety.”

    Similar questions have been raised in the current investigation.

    Joseph Giacalone, a retired NYPD sergeant and adjunct professor at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, said the new district attorney should be in charge of the handling the case instead of the police because Mangano is expected to nominate the acting police commissioner, Thomas Krumpter, to run the department.

    “He has to investigate the guy who is going to appoint him,” Giacalone said of Krumpter. “It would be the best course of action to hand this over.”

    Giacalone also questioned why there was no written police complaint, only a verbal one. If no formal police complaint exists, he suggested, it could insulate Mangano from charges of filing a false report if his allegations of being hacked are disproven.

     

  • Hicksville Middle School team reaches Robotics competition finals

    Hicksville Middle School team reaches Robotics competition finals

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Hicksville Middle School’s Meteorites robotics created last year has made tremendous progress, reaching the finals in the FIRST LEGO Robotics Competition.

    The South Asian dominated team comprises: Somya Mehta, Sejal Gupta, Rishika Thayavally, Viveka Jain, Victor Lobo, Dylan Gaznabbi, Rohan Manjrekar, Esha Singh, Aniket Sonika and Jaskaran Kohli. Catherine Temps is their coach, and their mentor is Indian American Shiv Chopra, President of Hicksville High School’s robotics program. Lauren Colwell and Michael Johnson are also mentors.

    The Meteorites will meet JFK middle school’s Robotic Raccoons and other teams in the finals to be held on February 28 at Longwood High School, in Suffolk County, Long Island.

    This year’s tournament theme being Trash Trek, the Hicksville Meteorites team tried to solve the problem of microbeads, little plastic balls that threaten the environment. Seeking help from professors and politicians, they were able to learn more about the issue and find solutions. And of course, the team was regularly meeting for the past several months to build and program the LEGO robot to perform tasks relating to trash as required by the competition.

  • Hicksville gets a Social Senior Daycare Center

    Hicksville gets a Social Senior Daycare Center

    HICKSVILLE, NY (TIP): Dr. Himanshu Pandya, with his partners Kirit Panchamia and Hiren Patel announced the creation of My Home at a press conference, held at the center, 256-C W. Old Country Road, Hicksville on February 10

    Dr. Pandya said that the Social adult day care programs are designed for those who are well enough to live at home but need daily supervision. The mission is to provide better quality of life for afflicted individuals while maintaining their dignity in our homelike, warm environment. The primary purpose of this program is the promotion of optimum health, prevention of disease and maintenance of participant’s ability to continue residence at home. He stated:” With the support of caring, dedicated and qualified staff, we are committed to providing the best to seniors living in the area”.

    Bobby Kumar Kalotee, who spoke about the necessity of the adult care daycare center, relating to his visiting mother in the United States. She just wanted to go back to India, as there was nothing for her to do the whole day, in terms of daily social activities. He encouraged all to serve the seniors in one or the other way. Bobby thanked the participating, majority of Indian Television and Print Media, community leaders and prominent people who made it possible to attend the event at a very short notice.

    The Daycare will serve people more than sixty years of age, or the one who are affected by permanent chronicle illness at no cost to individuals. The vegetarian meals with the approval of certified nutritionist will be served. According to the management, structured program of daily activities will include; arts & crafts, yoga, meditation, light exercise, games anda lot more. The Center has door to door transport available at no cost to seniors.

    My Home will have an Open House for the next 2 weeks, starting immediately, between the hours of !0 AM and 5 PM.

  • Town of Hempstead Celebrates India’s Republic Day

    Town of Hempstead Celebrates India’s Republic Day

    HEMPSTEAD, NY (TIP): On a beautiful Tuesday, January 26 morning Town of Hempstead Town Hall was busy and bustling with vibrant Indian Tricolors.

    The occasion was the 13th India Republic Day Celebrations organized by Hempstead Town Supervisor Anthony J Santino and Board members of Indian American Forum. On January 26, Tuesday morning at 9.00AM Mr. Santino, Hempstead Town Clerk Nasrin Ahmed, Senior Councilwoman Ms. Dorothy Goosby, Indu Jaiswal Chairperson of Indian American Forum, Beena Kothari President India Association of Long Island, Dr. Ajay Lodha President Elect National AAPI, Dr. Madhu Korapatti President of AAPIQLI, Satnam Singh Parhar Past President of IALI, Padma Shree Dr. Nori, Dr. Kishore Kuncham and several community leaders joined in raising the Flag outside the town Hall followed by Indian national anthem. Ms. Nasrin Ahmed, Hempstead town clerk hosted special breakfast in her office.

    On January 28, The Board of trustees and, members of Indian American Forum organized the thirteenth India Republic Day Celebration at Nathan L.H, Bennett Pavilion, Hempstead Town Hall.

    Honorable Supervisor Anthony J Santino hosted the Republic Day Celebrations. The town Hall was decorated with Indian flags and patriotic songs were played all over. Supervisor Santino was joined with Senior Councilwoman Ms. Dorothy Goosby, council member Bruce Blakeman, Councilwoman Erin king Sweeney and Town Clerk Nasreen Ahmed. Several elected officers, judges and dignitaries were present and enjoyed this unique evening of celebrations. Supervisor Santino welcomed everyone and praised the efforts of Indian American Community in USA.

    Indu Jaiswal, Chairperson of IAF, welcomed everyone and acknowledged the presence of all community leaders and support of various organizations present and participating in the program… Board of Trustees of IAF and leaders of several organizations, along with Honorees and Keynote speaker joined together and presented an award to Supervisor Santino, congratulating him on his landslide victory in elections and for his continued support towards the Indian American Community.

    India Republic Day Awards were presented to Ms. Raji Kuncham, Past President of TLCA; Raji has been helping in Art of Living Foundation, Interfaith Nutrition Network and India Association of Long Island.

    Mr. Anand Ahuja a well-known Attorney in the tristate was honored for his professional achievements and contributions.

    Dr Parveen Chopra welcomed every one and introduced Honorable Supervisor Santino. Dr. Ajay Lodha, President elect National AAPI, was the Key note speaker.

    Roubin Singh Thind led the Pledge of Allegiance andNational anthems were sung by seniors from Happy Home and Jyotika Patel, Opening prayers were done by Pandit Ramesh Choudhary, priest from Vedic Heritage, Inc., Hempstead.

    Lighting of the lamp was coordinated by Dr Parveen Chopra, Jaya Bahadkar and Ratna Bhalla. Patriotic songs were sung by Jyoti Gupta, Amita Karwal and Rekha Chichara. Manik Malhotra from Divya Jyoti Sansthan in Baldwin sung medley of patriotic songs. Folk dances and other performances were presented by students of Shilpa Jhurani from Arya Dance Academy and local talents. Also present were winners of Miss Teen New York 2015 and Miss India NY 2015. Emcee for the evening was Sunita Manjrekar.

    End of the ceremony prayers done by priest Bharat Bhatt, priest from Sai Mandir USA Baldwin.

    Vijay Goswamy thanked all the sponsors who included Meena Chopra from Akbar Restaurant, Rajesh Patel from House of Dipali, Sharanjit Singh Thind from Whitestone Real Estate and Asset Management, Ajay Batra and Media, Roopam Maini and, Council members of the Town hall and supervisor Anthony Santino.

  • India Association of Long Island New Executive Takes Oath of Office

    India Association of Long Island New Executive Takes Oath of Office

    LONG ISLAND, NY (TIP): For the first time in the history of India Association of Long Island (IALI), the oath & inauguration ceremony was organized in Suffolk County where IALI was born 37 years ago. The ceremony on January 22 at H. Lee Dennison Building, Hauppauge revived memories of old times.

    The new executive of IALI is sworn in by the Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone The President Beena Kothari (seated) with IALI family
    The new executive of IALI is sworn in by the Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone

    The County Executive Steve Bellone & Grace Ioannidis of minority Affairs/community service of the Suffolk County Executive graced the occasion with their presence Several past presidents of IALI, many organization leaders, community leaders and dignitaries were present. The event was well attended by over 250 people; some came all the way from the east and west end of Long Island, in spite of freezing weather on a weekday and the impending severe snowstorm.

    Hosted by the entire IALI 2016 Team, the event started off with a warm welcome to all attendees. The pledge of Allegiance was recited by all and was followed by American and Indian National Anthem, melodiously sung by the ladies of IALI. The Invocation ceremony with enchanting ancient Indian prayers and shlokas infused some fresh spiritual air into the atmosphere.

    The President Beena Kothari (seated) with IALI family
    The President Beena Kothari (seated) with IALI family

    County Executive Steve Bellone warmly welcomed and congratulated the new Executive Council and sworn them into the office: Beena Kothari (President), Gunjan Rastogi (Vice President), Lalit Aery (Secretary), Vimal Goyal (Treasurer), 8 Members-at-large, 3 Standing Committee Chairs.

    The County Executive was thrilled and appreciated in his remarks the commendable work done by the organization. Further, he also expressed his faith & confidence in the new Executive Council -the 2016 Team, under the leadership of the president, Mrs. Beena Kothari, to continue the community work to take it to a higher level.

    The County Executive was honored with a special award for his extraordinary public service, exemplary dedication and outstanding service to Indian community on Long Island.

    Then ceremony was followed with the Oath and swearing in of over 30 Ad-Hoc Committee Chairs and Co-Chairs by Grace Ioannidis of the county executive office. All Attendees applauded and welcomed the entire IALI Team 2016 wishing them good luck on their forthcoming endeavors.

    IALI President, Mrs. Beena Kothari, addressed the audience and thanked everyone for their utmost confidence and faith, giving her the opportunity to be the President of India Association of Long Island, an organization that represents people of all diverse faiths, values and culture. She pointed out that we are in the process of creating new programs & key strategic initiatives to fulfill our commitments and objectives. She emphasized that we strongly believe in “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” which means “Whole World is ONE Family”. One of my goals would be to focus on promoting “Unity and Harmony among Diversity.” said President, Mrs. Beena Kothari. The organization in the truest sense will create collaborative programs and

    increase ties with county governments, many local organizations to benefit all communities on Long Island for betterment of one and all.

    Grace Ioannidis also honored and recognized the hard work by the outgoing Executive Council of 2015 by honoring them with Certificate of Appreciation. Outgoing President Mr. Satnam S. Parhar was called out for his 2-year term service as well as his dedication and persistent efforts for fulfilling the dream of IALI India Center, a proud achievement of this prestigious organization. He congratulated all Past and Present team and supporters for the ongoing success of the organization and expressed confidence in the leadership of new incoming President, Mrs. Beena Kothari that they will take it to the new heights. There were beautiful dance performances by the kids and the youngsters specially choreographed for the occasion.

    A view of the gathering
    A view of the gathering

    The venue was elegantly decorated with Indian traditional décor and on-going slide shows in the background, portraying the history of the organization as well as the glimpses of the historic election were displayed. From Registration to photography, to seating arrangements to emcee to food to music, etc all services were handled voluntarily by the wonderful members of IALI Executive Council and the Volunteers. Attendees enjoyed the refreshing hot tea, snacks & exotic Indian Dinner served by Curry Club which was sponsored by the incoming Executive Council of 2016.

    The entire event was covered by various prominent media -newspapers and TV Channels. Incoming officers of 2016 thanked various community leaders, media, sponsors and supporters of IALI India center, IALI 2016 Team, Supporters, Volunteers and everyone for their tireless dedication to the betterment of the organization.

    The event promoted and encouraged participation of new members through their website www.ialinewyork.org. India Association of Long Island is the oldest and the largest, non-profit, non-political & non-religious, 37 years old community based organization with over 1700 members. Throughout the year, IALI organization conducts various multi-cultural events like Valentine’s Day, Holi (Festival of Colors), Vaishakhi, Family Picnic, Annual Dinner, India Fest (showcasing the Indian heritage, values & the diverse cultures & festivals of Indian subcontinent to the larger community of Long Island), Diwali (Festival of Lights), Food Drive on Thanksgivings etc. Additionally, the organization conducts many monthly activities, educational & networking forums for the benefits of the kids and youngsters, adults, seniors men & women, including professionals and businessmen.