The Indian Panorama

Tag: Queens

  • Melinda Katz shares her vision ‘Only in Queens’ in the State of the Borough address

    Melinda Katz shares her vision ‘Only in Queens’ in the State of the Borough address

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): Borough President Melinda Katz shared some of the milestones reached in the first half of her term in office and outlined the priorities for the future of Queens in her second annual State of the Borough Address, delivered Thursday, January 21 morning at Colden Auditorium on the campus of Queens College.

    Building upon last year’s theme of “If It’s Good For Our Families, It’s Good For Queens,” Borough President Katz this year highlighted the ways in which the borough’s diversity is “an asset not just for Queens but for all New Yorkers.”  She cited the “inherent opportunity – by both necessity and design – to meet challenges with more creativity, more perspectives, and more innovation. And what may be Only in Queens today sets the template for our country of tomorrow.”

    Among the policy areas discussed in the speech included Economic Development, Education, Housing, Parks, Tourism and Culture, Transportation and Constituent Services. A copy of the full State of the Borough Address as prepared for delivery can be found at www.queensbp.org/speech-sotb- 2016.pdf.

    The Address concluded with special appearances from New York Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson, former player Edgardo Alfonzo and Manager Terry Collins. Borough President Katz praised the “hometown heroes” for their 2015 National League Championship victory that “reminded us what it means to believe”, likening their “true grit, determination and heart” to the “Queens identity.”

    Immediately following the State of the Borough Address, guests enjoyed a brief reception with refreshments provided by Paul Evans Catering.

    The 2016 State of the Borough event was partly sponsored by JetBlue Airways Corporation, headquartered in Long Island City, Queens.

  • Assemblyman David Weprin Supports Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Fight For 15

    Assemblyman David Weprin Supports Governor Andrew Cuomo in the Fight For 15

    NEW YORK (TIP): Assemblyman David Weprin (D – Richmond Hill) joined Governor Andrew Cuomo, U.S. Secretary of Labor Tom Perez, Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, Congressman Gregory Meeks & other elected officials at the 1199SEIU United Healthcare Headquarters in Manhattan, Monday, January 4t, to rally in support of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s campaign for a statewide $15 minimum wage.

    The ‘Mario Cuomo Campaign for Economic Justice’ is a broad effort by Governor Cuomo to increase the statewide minimum wage to an hourly rate of $15 and follows the Governors’ actions to increase the minimum wage for fast food workers and SUNY employees to $15/hour.

    Assemblyman David Weprin strongly supports the ‘Mario Cuomo Campaign for Economic Justice’ and was proud to join a diverse group of advocates, including 1199SEIU President George Gresham, union representatives from 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East & 32BJ SEIU, and Actor Steve Buscemi.

    “Today’s minimum wage still leaves far too many people behind –unacceptably condemning them to a life of poverty even while they work full-time,” Cuomo said.

    Senator Jose Peralta (left), Assemblyman David Weprin (center), New York City Councilman Andy King (left)
    Senator Jose Peralta (left), Assemblyman David Weprin (center), New York City Councilman Andy King (left)

    Speaking after the event, Assemblyman Weprin said “All hard-working New Yorkers deserve a living wage. Currently, there are far too many Queens residents that are working two,

    or sometimes even three, jobs to make ends meet. I applaud Governor Cuomo for organizing this rally and I am proud to support the Governor’s office in this fight for a statewide minimum wage of $15 an hour”

  • Karina Kohli crowned Miss India USA 2015

    Karina Kohli crowned Miss India USA 2015

    Karina Kohli of New York was crowned Miss India USA 2015 during a glittering beauty pageant held on December 6th at the Royal Albert’s Palace, Fords, New Jersey. Karina, 18, is studying acting at New York University, was crowned by outgoing queen Pranathy Gangaraju. Karina will represent the USA in the 25th Annual Miss India Worldwide Pageant, to be held in New York, USA in September 2016.

    Aanchal Shah from Florida was crowned Miss Teen India USA and Neha Multani Verma of New York was also crowned Mrs. India USA. Organized by the New Yorkbased IFC, headed by Dharmatma Saran, Founder and the Chief Organizer of the Pageant, the 24th annual pageant had a record number of 55 contestants from across the nation competed to win the coveted title this year.

    Nandini Iyer, 27, of New Jersey and Visakha Sundar, 21, of Virginia, were respectively declared first and second runners up among 20 contestants from various parts of the country, in the gala event attended by over five hundred people. The other two five finalists were Karishma Malhotra from New York and Nicky Kandola from Virginia.

    Aanchal, 16, from Florida, would like to become an oncologist. She was crowned Miss Teen India USA among 17 other contestants. The first runner up among the Teens was Akila Narayanan, 17, from Massachusetts and the second runner up was Rhea Manjrekar 16, from New York. The other two finalists were Manjari Parikh from New York and Shirin Bakre from Massachusetts. The subcontest winners in Teen section were – Manjari Parikh – Miss Talented, Aanchal Shah – Miss Congeniality, Akila Narayanan – Miss Social Media and Simran Kota – Miss Photogenic.

    Neha Multani Verma, 29, is an executive with a large real estate corporation. The first runner up is Sheetal Kelkar, 36, from New Hampshire and the second runner up is Aradhana Thawani Padilla, 24, from Texas. The other two top five were Radhika Treon from Massachusetts and Protyusha DasNeogi from Washington State. The sub-contest winners in Mrs. Section were Chhavi Gupta – Mrs. Congeniality, Aradhana Thawani – Mrs. Photogenic and Pavana Gadde – Mrs. Social Media.

    The pageant started with a stunning performance by all the contestants led by the outgoing queens Miss India USA – Pranathy Gangaraju, Miss Teen India USA – Riya Kaur and Mrs. India USA Namita Dodwadkar choreographed by Shilpa Jhurani.

    All contestants presented their best in the Indian and the Evening Gown segment after which the top ten were selected. The top ten contestants from Miss section then amazed the audience with their talent which included Bollywood dances, Indian classical dances, contemporary dancing and singing. In the Miss section Nandini Iyer was awarded Miss Talented. Winners of the other various subcontests were: Miss Congeniality – Visakha Sundar, Miss Social Media – Nandini Iyer, Miss Photogenic – Akshaya Vijaykumar, Miss Bollywood Divya – Spoorthy Bharadwaj, Miss Catwalk – Ishpreet Gill, Miss Beautiful Hair – Aishwarya Balaji, Miss Beautiful Smile –Karishma Malhotra, Miss Popularity – Nandini Iyer, Miss Beautifu Eyes – Anita Ganesan, Miss Beautiful Skin – Piyali Nath. Trina Chakravarty, Roshi George, and Asma Molu were emcees and Nishi Bahl was the choreographer and was assisted by Shilpa Jhurani. The panel of judges included Raissa Nagapin – National Director of Miss India Guadelope, Chandra Mouli – Film Producer, Neetu Thomas – Fashion Designer, Subbu Sundaravelu – Director of SAP Managed Services at ProMorphics LLC and Ines Hernandez- Fashion Designer and Political Activist. Dharmangi Bhatia, CPA, was the official accountant.

    The pageant, known around the world is not just for the sake of beauty and talent alone. True to its traditions, charity and supporting noble causes has been its hallmark since its inception. Dharmatma Saran, Chairman & Founder, presented an appreciation plaque to H. R. Shah , Albert Jasani, Nishi Bahl and Shilpa Jhurani for their support in organizing this year pageant. “I am very thankful to the Indian community for its support through the years,” said Dharmatma Saran, “and especially thankful to H.R. Shah and Albert Jasani for supporting the pageant.”

     

  • Harbachan Singh sworn in as President of Queens Civic Congress (QCC) for another term

    Harbachan Singh sworn in as President of Queens Civic Congress (QCC) for another term

    NEW YORK (TIP): Harbachan Singh was sworn in for his second term as president of Queens Civic Congress (QCC) at the annual QCC Legislative Reception on December 6, 2015 at the Douglaston Club in Queens. It was another successful QCC event which was well attended by its many organization members and several prominent legislators from federal, state and city levels. Highlighting the event was the swearing in of the newly elected QCC team by US Senator Charles Schumer who commended QCC for its representation and advocacy.

    Harbachan Singh, born in Malaysia, is a Barrister-at-Law from U.K He is a former Chairman of the Headquarters Committee on Contracts of the United Nations. Currently, he is Secretary-General of the Indian National Overseas Congress, USA. and President of the Advisory Board of the Holocaust Center at the Queens Borough Community College. He is a past president of the Saul Weprin Democratic Club, Vice President of the Community Advisory Board of the Queens Hospital Center and a delegate of the Queens Borough President’s’ General Assembly. Singh is also a life member of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO.

    Ashook Ramsaran, formerly of Guyana, was sworn in as the newest vice president of QCC. Ramsaran emigrated from Guyana in 1968 and currently president of Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International). He is a board member of the Fresh Meadows Civic Association and Secretary of New York Presbyterian/Queens Hospital Community Advisory Council, among several other notable positions in prominent organizations and institutions.

    New York State Senator Tony Avella (third from left, front row) with members of the newly sworn in QCC team.
    New York State Senator Tony Avella (third from left, front row) with members of the newly sworn in QCC team.

    The growing impact of the activities of Queens Civic Congress has certainly drawn attention recently as evidenced from the significant number officials attending the event. Legislators who participated in the Legislative Reception included: U.S. Congresswoman Grace Meng; Queens Borough President Ms. Melinda Katz; New York City Comptroller Scott Stringer; Public Advocate Letitia James; State Senators Tony Avella and Toby Ann Stavisky; State Assemblymen David Weprin and Edward Braunstein; State Assemblywoman Nily Rozic; NYC Council Members Rory Lancman, Alicia Hyndman, Karen Koslowitz and Barry Grodenchik; NYC Design & Construction Commissioner Dr. Feniosky Peña-Mora representing Mayor Bill di Blasio; and others.

    QCC second term president Mr. Harbachan Singh spoke after the swearing in ceremony of the many challenges Queens residents were facing on issues such as those relating to public transport system, airplane noise at vicinities of Queens two major airports, congestion pricing, shelters for the homeless, zoning for quality and affordability housing, use of parks and the parkland, business development districts and Long Island Rail Road line activation proposals. Singh reasoned with the legislators that “while we invariably find ourselves on the same side of the table at City Council or State Assembly hearings, we both serve the common interests of the residents and the county; we also appreciate your listening ears to our opposing positions when necessary”. Singh recognized their overall collaboration, support and cooperation.”

    Queens Civic Congress, formed in 1997, is a registered New York State non-profit organization representing more than 100 civic and other community organizations throughout the Borough of Queens in New York City, is 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.

  • Man plunges to death from fifth floor Queens window after stabbing girlfriend

    Man plunges to death from fifth floor Queens window after stabbing girlfriend

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): A 29-year-old man died after he plummeted from a fifth floor window, November 16 -moments after stabbing his girlfriend several times in Queens, police said.

    The 24-year-old woman was attacked when a domestic dispute turned violent in the fifth floor apartment on Grand Central Parkway near Commonwealth Blvd. in Little Neck shortly after 9:20 a.m., authorities said.

    Bloodied and panicked, she ran out onto the street and flagged down a passing NYPD patrol car, police said.

    The officers then went to up to the apartment to investigate but found the man had plunged from the window down to the ground on the side of the building, according to officials. Police were investigating whether the man leapt or fell.

    The man and woman were both rushed to North Shore LIJ Hospital, where the man died, police said. The woman was listed in stable condition.

    It was not immediately known what spurred the violence.

  • Six Indian American Malayalees to be honored by Kerala Center, NY

    Six Indian American Malayalees to be honored by Kerala Center, NY

    The Indian American Kerala Cultural and Civic Center will honor six Indian Americans for outstanding achievement in their field of specialization or for their service to the society.

    The awardees were selected by a committee consisting of four members headed by Kerala Center Board Member and Trustee Dr. Thomas Abraham, according to a press release.

    “Every year we invite nominations and the committee has to make a unanimous choice for a candidate in a category to be selected to receive the award and this year is no different from previous years in terms of their achievements,” said Dr. Abraham, in a statement.

    “For the last 23 years, the Kerala Center has recognized the most outstanding achievers among the Indian American Kerala Community and they are role models for our community,” said Kerala Center President Thambi Thalappillil.

    Kerala-Center-press-releaseThe awardees will be honored at the Kerala Center’s 23rd Annual Awards Banquet on Saturday, November 7th starting at 6.30 p.m. at World’s Fair Marina in Flushing (Queens, New York City, address: 1 World’s Fair Marina, Flushing).  The chief guest is Ambassador Dnyaneshwar Mulay, Consul General of India in New York and the keynote speaker is Mr. K. Mohandas, former Secretary of the Ministry of Overseas Indian affairs and Shipping, Govt. of India.

    This year’s honorees are: 
    Recognition for Outstanding Contribution in Engineering – Dr. Navin Manjooran 

    Dr. Navin Manjooran ​is ​the Global Director (Energy) for Siemens AG ​ and ​​is responsible for the​  entire Siemens energy portfolio. He also serves as an engineering professor at Virginia Tech. Navin graduated with a BE degree from NIT (Warangal), a MS from University of Florida (Gainesville, USA), Ph.D. from Virginia Tech (Blacksburg, USA), all with the highest honors and later on completed MBA from University of Chicago. Navin has 11 patents/ disclosures, 9 books, 37 publications and 51 presentations at national/international conferences. He has received several awards including TMS Young Leader, ASM International Leadership Award ​and ​Siemens Performance Award. ​Navin is a Member of the US Technology Advisory Board and ​Virginia Tech Univ. Board  and the Board of Trustees of Univ. of Chicago.

    Recognition for Outstanding Contribution in Information Technology – Dr. Sasi K. Pillay

    Dr. Sasi K, Pillay serves as the CIO of the University of Wisconsin System comprising 26 campuses where he has started several initiatives such as the Innovation Program and Business Intelligence,  while managing a portfolio of shared services totaling $45million.  In his prior roles at NASA, Dr. Pillay oversaw the IT innovation program consisting of global crowd sourcing and the launch of the innovation program which have won several national awards.  He is the recipient of the NASA Outstanding Leadership Medal, NASA Exceptional Service Medal and the U.S. President’s Rank Award as a Meritorious Executive.

    Recognition for Outstanding Contribution in Medicine – Dr. Prem Soman

    Dr. Prem Soman MD, PhD, FRCP (UK), FACC is Director of Nuclear Cardiology, and Associate Professor of Medicine, and Clinical and Translation Science at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. He is internationally recognized for his research contributions to the field of nuclear cardiology, with more than 100 publications  and text book chapters. He has coauthored national guidelines on imaging and Appropriate Use Criteria. Dr. Soman is the current chair of the Imaging Council of the American College of Cardiology, Vice-President elect of the American Society of Nuclear Cardiology, and Immediate Past President of the Cardiovascular Council of the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging.

    Recognition in Journalism and for Community Service – Dr. George M. Kakkanatt

    Dr. George Kakkanatt, a former US Air Force Captain is a professional psychotherapist. George is one of the founding members and former Global General Secretary of the World Malayalee Council (WMC), Green Kerala Foundation, and ALTIUS youth program. He is the President of the South Indian US Chamber of Commerce and also the President of the Houston Chapter of India Press Club of NA.  George is the Managing Director and Editor in Chief of Azchavattom Malayalam News weekly published from Houston. George received several awards for his creative commitment to serve the global community.

    Recognition for Community Service – Leela Maret

     

    Leela Maret has been doing superb job as a volunteer in many community organization for the last three decades. Working as a scientist for last 29 years at New York City’s Environmental Protection, Leela is also adjunct lecturer in Bronx Community College. Leela serves as Recording Secretary of Local Employees Union 375 for the city, delegate for Central Labor Council, FOKANA National Women’s Forum Chair, Vice President of South Asians for Labor and Vice President of INOC. She had served as the President of Kerala Samajam and in other capacities of several other organizations including FOKANA. She has helped to organize Asian Heritage, Diwali function at New York City Hall, Kerala Piravi and other events in Indian Consulate, actively participated in Voter Registration, taught Malayalam at St. John’s University, and took part in the testimony of redistricting of Richmond Hill to unite South Asians. She is the recipient of various Community awards such as NYC Comptroller’s Community Service award, and two Pravasi awards.

    Recognition for Service to the Nation – Captain Jophiel Philips – Service to the Nation

    Capt. Jophiel Philips was born in Queens, New York, were he developed a passion for football leading him to earn a football scholarship at St. Francis Prep High School.  He went on to play four years of college football, where he started at Wide Receiver.  After coaching football at the University level, Capt Philips went to law school where he won numerous academic awards and was chosen to give the commencement speech.  Capt Philips is a Judge Advocate General in the U.S. Air Force.  During his recent deployment, he was awarded the Purple Heart, as well as the Bronze Star, for his actions in protecting service members from harm, after an insurgent attack- where eight of his comrades died.

  • Department of Education to present High School Admission Process Tips on October 21

    Department of Education to present High School Admission Process Tips on October 21

    QUEENS, NY – Borough President Melinda Katz will hold a regular meeting of the Queens Parent Advisory Board on Wednesday, October 21 at 6:00 PM at Queens Borough Hall (Borough President’s 2nd Floor Conference Room), 120-55 Queens Boulevard in Kew Gardens.

    The meeting will feature a presentation by New York City Department of Education (DOE) officials for parents about how to navigate the high schools admissions process, as well an overview of recent changes to the DOE’s structure of superintendents of high schools. Those attending the meeting include MELINDA KATZ, Queens Borough President JUAN MENDEZ, Superintendent of High Schools for Queens, DOE MARGARET ROGERS, Queens Borough Director of Enrollment, DOE SCHOOL PRINCIPALS from the nine Reward Schools in Queens
    (Academy of American Studies; Aviation Career and Technical High School; Baccalaureate School for Global Education; East-West School of International Studies; Queens High School of Science at York College; Robert F Wagner Jr. Secondary Schools; Scholars Academy; Townsend Harris High School; York Early College Academy.

    In addition, Borough President Katz will recognize the nine Queens high schools that were recently designated as “Reward Schools” by the New York State Commissioner of Education for having made the most significant progress or have the highest achievement in the state with no significant gaps in student achievement.

    The Parent Advisory Board gives Queens public school parents an opportunity to be heard on education issues and concerns and provides a forum to meet with senior city and state education officials. The meetings are open to the public, especially to any and all parents with children in the public school system. The Board is chaired by BP Katz, BP Katz’s Panel for Education Policy (PEP) appointee Deborah Dillingham and BP Katz’s Education Director, Monica Gutierrez. The Board is comprised of Parent Teacher Association (PTA) members, Parent Coordinators, the Community Education Councils (CECs) in school Districts 24-30 and the Education Committee Chairs of each Queens Community Board. The Board regularly meets at Borough Hall. (Based on a press release)

  • Queens Borough President Melinda Katz Criticizes MTA

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz Criticizes MTA

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz
    Queens Borough President took exception to MTA’s threat to slash funding for New York City transit projects from the capital plan.

    QUEENS, NY (TIP): Borough President Melinda Katz  reacted strongly to the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (MTA’s) threat to slash funding for New York City transit projects from the capital plan.

    Melinda said, “It is astonishing to me that the MTA would threaten to hold New York City transit projects hostage for more City money. The MTA is an authority created by the legislature to deliver transit services throughout the region, not to stifle projects at the expense of millions of suffering customers.

    “New York City residents and businesses already pay more than our fair share at 75 percent of the MTA’s regional budget, and yet in a transit desert like Queens, most of the subway stations we do have are still structurally deficient. Millions of Queens residents have long-deserved a more reliable mass transit experience, and capital projects like the full reconstruction of the Jamaica Bus Depot, signal modernization along the E, F, M and R lines and complete renovations of 16 Queens subway stations are absolutely critical. Considering them as bargaining chips does little to instill confidence in the MTA. We also urge the MTA to implement a full-time extension of the CityTicket pricing to help make the LIRR a more accessible and viable transit option, especially for Queens residents.

    “Furthermore, the MTA should guarantee that the billions in additional taxpayer dollars from the City will be solely used for overdue MTA improvements and enhancements.”

    In the Executive Budget in May, the City Administration increased capital funding to fully meet the MTA’s request of $657 million the largest general capital contribution to the agency in recent history. That is in addition to the$1 billion+ a year in operating funds the City provides the MTA, the $2.4 billion for the 7 train extension to the West Side, and an additional $200 million in capital from the Vanderbilt Corridor Rezoning.

    In FY14, the MTA’s operating budget was $13.9 billion. City residents and businesses paid $10.1 billion in fares, tolls and dedicated taxes, which was$288 million more than what the MTA spent on NYC Transit, MTA Bus and Staten Island Railroad combined.

    Over the years the MTA hasn’t met its obligation with $270 million diverted from MTA to other state efforts.

  • Coins worth $4.5m recovered from shipwreck

    MIAMI (TIP): Treasure hunters off Florida have found$4.5 million in gold coins from a Spanish ship that sunk during a hurricane in the 18th century , the sal vage company said on August 19.

    The ship ‘Ten Galleons’ traveling from Havana to Spain went down off Florida’s east coast in the July 1715 storm, on whose impact the vesse broke up and the booty was flung far and wide.

    “Over 350 gold coins, including 9 Royals were recovered on July 30 & 31 on the actual 300th anniversary of the wreck,” said Brent Brisben, the head of 1715 Fleet-Queens Jewels. It was the second major find by the treasure hunters in recent months, after, in June they found about 50 coins with a total of about $1 million. The latest coins found are extremely rare and are worth about $300,000 each, Brisben said. ” These Royals are perfect speci mens of coinage of the time and they were made on royal order for the king of Spain,” he explained.

    ” These shipwrecks were pushed by the hurricane into the outer edge of the reef and then they were utterly de stroyed by the wave action. So pieces of these ships have floated for miles al the way into the beach up into the dunes,” Brisben added. Under the US state law, Florida gets 20% of the returns on treasure found off its coasts.

  • My Horrible Lunch at Haveli

    My Horrible Lunch at Haveli

    Perhaps, it was one of the worst experiences of my life, if not the worst experience, that I had a horrible lunch at Haveli restaurant on Queens Blvd in Queens, New York. This incident occurred about 2 months ago.

    I cannot figure out the reasons for such a mistreatment because I am a good tipper – more than 20 percent even at a buffet lunch – but one reason that comes to mind and it may not be the only reason is that I am a Sikh and the employees at the restaurant were Hindus and perhaps Arya Samajis. If that be so, then the restaurant owner should simply be ashamed of himself and be glad that I did not pursue the matter on hate crime grounds.

    I went to Haveli restaurant on a Saturday with a friend of mine who is an executive at a renowned organization. Knowing that I was coming in, the manager seated us at a table which was not set up and had no cutlery on it, while all the other tables were all set up. Trying not to insult him by changing the seat we waited for over 15 minutes before someone came to put knives and forks on our table, I decided not to make a scene about it.

    Since it was buffet lunch – by the way, it is more expensive than most other Indian restaurants – we went to get the food. It was about 1:30 PM and the food carriages were practically empty. I kept quiet. No one came to give us water. I had to ask for it 4-5 times before water came and it was done in a manner as if I was an ACHHOOT and they were Brahmins. I still did not shout and kept quiet.

    At the end of the meal, I asked for tea. It took them about 10 minutes to bring tea. And the tea was cold. The explanation was that they did not serve tea in American way where the milk and sugar is served separately but in the Indian way. I left the cold tea without drinking and still paid for it. Some bad memories become etched in our mind. It was very embarrassing for me and my friend but I did not make a scene. I was disappointed that the same Indian people would serve an American on hand and foot like slaves and mistreat their own people.

    I still find it hard to believe that in this service oriented competitive restaurant business our people do not know how to serve. I hope other Sikhs are not so ill-treated because someone could sue them for their pants.

    Personally, I do regret not taking any action even though I had many witnesses to this mistreatment.

    Dr. J. S. Chandan
    jschandan@aol.com, 917 972 6000

    (The Indian Panorama takes no responsibility for the views of the readers.) 

  • Anjuman-e-Badri hosts the annual Public Relations Event with politicians, community leaders in attendance

    Anjuman-e-Badri hosts the annual Public Relations Event with politicians, community leaders in attendance

    NEW YORK (TIP): Anjuman-e-Badri hosted its annual public relations event at Jamali Markaz, Queens-New York. This event was attended by several local politicians which included councilmen, assemblymen, various supporters and Jamaat members. Also present was Congresswoman Grace Meng, who voiced her support for the Dawoodi Bohra community and wished everyone a Happy Eid.

    The Jamaat was presented with several citations applauding the Jamaat for its work in the community. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton sent a letter addressed to the Jamaat and extended her greetings to members.

    The distinguished gathering
    The distinguished gathering
    Yusuf Bhai Saheb, President , Anjuman-e-Badri addresses the gathering
    Yusuf Bhai Saheb, President , Anjuman-e-Badri addresses the gathering
  • Great pre-K program: free, full-day, high-quality pre-K seats available

    Great pre-K program: free, full-day, high-quality pre-K seats available

    NEW YORK CITY (TIP): To apply to free, full-day, high quality pre-K seats, families should go to the upgraded pre-K search tool, which is now available in ten languages.

    Families can filter their options by looking for district schools, charter schools or Early Education Centers at https://maps.nyc.gov/upk/. Families may also visit their Family Welcome Centers (see addresses below) or they can call 718.935.2067. In addition, 311 operators are available 24 hours for assistance.

    Families that have already accepted their pre-K offer by pre-registering for their free, full-day, high-quality pre-K seat don’t need to take any further action.

    Here is a quote you can use from Chancellor Fariña:  “Our efforts to work with every family one-on-one to find the right pre-K program for their child continues this summer. Families who have not yet applied and want a seat for their child should register as soon as possible. Through this additional year of learning, children will explore with science projects, learn new vocabulary words, develop social skills and bring their families into the classroom as partners.”

    Family Welcome Centers

    Bronx

    1 Fordham Plaza, 7th Floor
    Bronx, NY 10458
    Districts Served: 7, 9, 10

     

    1230 Zerega Avenue, Room 24
    Bronx, NY 10462
    Districts Served: 8, 11, 12

     

    Brooklyn

    1780 Ocean Avenue, 3rd Floor
    Brooklyn, NY 11230
    Districts Served: 17, 18, 22

     

    415 89th Street, 5th Floor
    Brooklyn, NY 11209
    Districts Served: 20, 21

     

    1665 St. Mark’s Avenue, Room 116
    Brooklyn, NY 11233
    Districts Served: 19, 23, 32

     

    29 Fort Greene Place (BE12)
    Brooklyn, NY 11217
    Districts Served: 13, 14, 15, 16

     

     

    		 Manhattan

    333 Seventh Avenue, 12th Floor; Room 1211
    New York, NY 10001
    Districts Served: 1, 2, 4

     

    388 West 125th Street, 7th Floor; Room 713
    New York, NY 10027
    Districts Served: 3, 5, 6

     

    Queens

    28-11 Queens Plaza North, 3rd Floor
    Long Island City, NY 11101
    Districts Served: 24, 30

     

    30-48 Linden Place, 2nd Floor
    Flushing, NY 11354
    Districts Served: 25, 26

     

    90-27 Sutphin Boulevard, 1st Floor
    Jamaica, NY 11435
    Districts Served: 27, 28, 29

     

    Staten Island

    715 Ocean Terrace, Building A
    Staten Island, NY 10301
    District Served: 31

     

    * open Mon-Fri, 8 am – 3 pm
  • Temporary Protected Status for Citizens of Nepal in the wake of devastating Earthquake

    Temporary Protected Status for Citizens of Nepal in the wake of devastating Earthquake

    NEW YORK (TIP): U.S. Reps. Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus, and Grace Meng (D-Queens), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and its Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, announced, June 24, that in the wake of the devastating earthquake in Nepal, the United States government is granting Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Nepalese nationals presently in the U.S.

    The move protects citizens of Nepal from deportation or detainment so that they are not forced to return to dangerous and unsafe conditions that the earthquake caused in their country. The decision comes after Crowley and Meng led dozens of Congress members in a letter urging Homeland Security Secretary Jeh Johnson and Secretary of State John Kerry to grant TPS to Nepalese nationals.

    “As the people of Nepal continue to mourn the lives lost and struggle to recover from this terrible tragedy, I’m proud our nation will continue its tradition of humanitarian support by granting TPS to Nepalis currently in our country,” said Crowley. “This is a critical step that will allow those in Queens and in communities across the country to remain here until the Nepali government is better suited to handle their return, thus helping Nepal’s government focus on their important recovery efforts.”

    “My heart continues to ache for all those impacted by the terrible tragedy in Nepal,” said Meng. “Allowing citizens of Nepal who are in Queens and throughout the nation to remain in the U.S. until it’s safe to return is the right and decent thing to do, and I thank Secretary Johnson and Secretary Kerry for being responsive to our request. As Nepal continues to recover, the U.S. and international community must continue to assist the country with needed relief efforts.” Watch Meng call for TPS during a recent Foreign Affairs Committee hearing:

    “The Nepali community in the U.S. is relieved that we don’t have to worry about our visas. We can now focus on supporting our friends and families back home and contribute towards rebuilding our homeland,” said Luna Ranjit, Executive Director of Adhikaar. “We would like to thank Congressman Crowley and Congresswoman Meng for visiting us and listening to our stories, and pushing for TPS for Nepal.”

    Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, the U.S. can provide TPS when conditions in a country prevent its citizens from returning safely such as natural disaster, civil war, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions.

    In order to qualify for TPS, applicants must have been continuously present in the U.S. since June 24, 2015. TPS will be in place for 18 months, until December 24, 2016. Applicants must apply for this status by December 21, 2015.

    For more information on TPS, including guidance on the application process and additional information on eligibility, please visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) TPS website
    atwww.uscis.gov/tps.

  • FREE, HEALTHY SUMMER MEALS FOR ALL!

    FREE, HEALTHY SUMMER MEALS FOR ALL!

    Starting June 29 through September 4, free, healthy summer meals will be available for all children 18 years or younger at more than 1,000 locations across the city and for the first time families can download the Apple and Android user-friendly mobile app, Schoolfood to choose from more than 1,000 sites and access daily menus.

    Last year, more than 8 million meals were served, a spike from the 7.6 million meals served during the previous summer. The DOE has launched a multi-lingual campaign to reach millions of more families this summer.

    In New York City, more than 477,000 children face hunger – about one in four, making them vulnerable to infections, diseases and more likely to be hospitalized. Eating healthy meals is critical for a child’s development and by providing free, accessible breakfast and lunch for children of all ages, the DOE is helping to continue good habits during the summer months to all families, regardless of their zip code.

    Summer meals will be available at schools, libraries, parks, public housing sites, community based organizations, and soup kitchens throughout the five boroughs. Sites will serve breakfast weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9:15 a.m. and lunch from 11 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. Summer meals items, which are low in fat, sodium and prepared without artificial colors or sweeteners include blueberry pancakes, yogurt and granola and cheese omelet with salsa, beef taco, black bean and corn salad.

    And for the first time, food trucks will be open for lunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday to Friday at Orchard Beach in the Bronx and 7 days a week at the Queens Zoo parking lot at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Corona Plaza at Roosevelt Ave. and 103rd St. in Queens and the Rivington Playground at the Sara D. Roosevelt Park in Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Participation requires no ID, registration or documentation. Children don’t need to be enrolled in summer school to participate in the summer meals program and no application is required.

    For more information parents may text “nycmeals” to 877-877 or visit the following websites:

    www.nyc.gov/311
    www.schoolfoodnyc.org
    http://www.nokidhungry.org/
    http://www.nycgovparks.org/

  • AHMED SHAKIR – A man committed to community and country

    AHMED SHAKIR – A man committed to community and country

    A short, thin middle aged man- you may probably take him for just another man in the street. But no. He is not an ordinary man. He is not a man to be ignored. He is a man to be noticed. Inside the seemingly frail frame of the man is a powerhouse of energy. Besides his morning until late afternoon work, he is to be found at most social events. And then his job requires a lot of traveling. This is Ahmed Shakir, P.E.

    Shakir told me he has always been a hard working person. It was his love of work that brought him from India to the USA in 1969. While many come to this country to make money and to enjoy life, Shakir chose to get education. He received his B.S. and M.S. in structural engineering from the University of Texas.

    As a student he was active in international, Indian, and Muslim student associations because of his deep interest in social, community, and political activities. This initial commitment stemmed from his belief that everyone should dedicate some of their time to improving and serving their community.

    Over the past thirty years, Ahmed has been extensively involved in the union and labor activities. Consider his accomplishments.

     

    Yet another recognition.
    Yet another recognition.

    He is the first South Asian elected as Secretary of Civil Service Technical Guild which represents 7000 Engineers, Architects, Scientists, Etc. for five consecutive terms, since 1998.

    • He is the first South Asian to serve as Vice President on the Board of Directors of the Asian Pacific American Labor Alliance of U.S.A.
    • He was on the Board of Directors of the Eastern Queens Democratic Party and a chair for the union and their political office.
    • He is a founding Vice President of the American Engineering Alliance which was established in 1996.
    • He is elected six consecutive terms as DC 37 Delegate.

     

    Society of Indo American Engineers and Architects honored Shakir at the annual gala in November 2014. He is seen here with Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan who had given away the award. Also seen (second from left) is the Consul General of India in New York, Ambassador Dnyaneshwar Mulay.
    Society of Indo American Engineers and Architects honored Shakir at the annual gala in
    November 2014. He is seen here with Lok Sabha speaker Sumitra Mahajan who had given away
    the award. Also seen (second from left) is the Consul General of India in New York, Ambassador
    Dnyaneshwar Mulay.

    As Treasurer of FIA since 2009, Ahmed has been bringing new sponsors for FIA and helps FIA to connect with Senators, Congressmen and Political leaders at City and at the State level.

    Ahmed Shakir with New York City Comptroller Yet another recognition. Scott Stringer
    Ahmed Shakir with New York City Comptroller Yet another recognition. Scott Stringer

    Among his peers and colleagues, Ahmed has come to be seen as a man who promotes the idea and practice of tolerance in every facet of life. He believes that people should work together regardless of nationality, religion, or race, because peace and prosperity can only be achieved through non-violence, patience and service to the needy. Ahmed’s message to our community in USA is: come together and let us take a leadership role in our adopted country. This country gave us all the opportunity to make our dream come true. We should make every effort to support the various south Asian and Asian organizations to be successful and serve our community here and in India.

     

     

    Shakir with Congressman Joseph Crowley
    Shakir with Congressman Joseph Crowley

    Ahmed Shakir has been at pains to strike a balance between the various calls- family, work, community. He belongs to Bohra community, which has a small presence in the USA. Now Bohras in India are a prosperous trading community. They are known to be charitable and helping not only their own community but contributing to any humanitarian cause. Shakir who has been involved in the affairs of Bohra community in New York is also very close to the Bohra spiritual leaders. He has not only been a confidant of his spiritual masters but has also been honored for his valuable contribution to community. He is currently Hon. Secretary, Public Relations of the Dawoodi Bohra community in New York.

    Shakir with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio
    Shakir with New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio

    For his work and services, Shakir has been recognized and honored at various levels. Some of the awards he won are Hero of Labor Award, Congressional Achievement Award, World Business Forum Lifetime Achievement Award, Excellence in Services Award from the Islamic Community, Friends of Labor award conferred on him by the Civil Services Technical Guild. He has been honored by a number of Organizations and associations. The Indo American Society of Engineers and Architects (SIAEA) honored him for his services to the profession in November 2014. Recipient of many commendations, Shakir has received a number of proclamations and citations from the City to the Congress.

    A jewel of the Indian American community, Shakir is a simple person imbued with a spirit to serve.

    Ahmed Shakir is married to Dr. Khadija and they live in Manhasset Hills, New York.

     

     

  • Indians in America: Progress, Opportunities, Issues and Challenges

    Indians in America: Progress, Opportunities, Issues and Challenges

    Among the vast global expanse of the Indian Diaspora, non-resident Indians (NRIs) and persons of Indian origin (PIOs) in the United States of America constitute the largest national community of NRIs and PIOs. The NRIs and PIOs in USA are a rapidly increasing population exceeding 4 million with unparalleled upward mobility and significant achievements in all segments of US society. Their average per capita far exceeds other recent immigrant groups as NRIs and PIOs have made enormous strides in economic progress, science and technology, businesses, hospitality, medical profession, media, academia and politics. In addition, the recent advances in strengthening of the relationship between India and USA further enhance the importance of NRIs and PIOs in the USA.

    Despite the remarkable advances and levels of assimilation in US society, from time to time NRIs and PIOs are victims of attacks and harassment perpetuated by other Americans as well as law enforcement. Some of these actions may be silent while others are physical in nature. These are harsh realities, to those who are victims and those who view these attacks in the larger perspective. These experiences are rude awakenings which can jolt the NRI/PIO community to take notice, to understand the motivations, be aware, be vigilant and take steps to alleviate and prevent such incidents. Many of the issues are institutional, ingrained in the US society from its inception, and it would be logical that solutions would have to be institutional in order to be effective – at all levels of society: political, civic, economic, academic, social, religious and media.

    Individually and collectively, NRIs and PIOs must be actively engaged as part of the fabric of American society, participating in multi-ethnic organizations and contributing to social programs benefiting all Americans  -and not be viewed as isolated groups. America is the “great melting pot” and NRIs and PIOs are part of that mix. The lessons of Uganda can be stark reminders of unexpected outcomes by those who view NRIs and PIOs as outsiders or isolated.

    The events of recent months clearly show how widespread disparities have evolved into a national problem of enormous proportions which beg for an urgent solution or a series of solutions, examining the underlying causes, confronting perceptions versus reality. The urgency is to examine and asses the disparities in educational opportunities, economic opportunities, law enforcement and risks, perceptions which dictate actions perpetuating misplaced beliefs and actions, and developing partnerships for social and social progress.

    It is important that the NRI/PIO community in USA be engaged on these issues on a national level. The Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) is embarking on this national agenda with all its chapters in USA in collaboration with other Indian-American organizations, other US (non-Indian) organizations and agencies, municipal, state and national agencies, elected officials, Indian consular officials and others. The objective is to bring about more awareness, education and information, understanding, expectations, cultural differences, Indian immigrant language as hurdles to overcome, immigrant customs, religion, traditions, laws and policies to prevent similar incidents in the future. It must be noted that misplaced perceptions and incorrect assumptions by others can contribute to brutal incidents such as immediately after 9-11 when several Sikhs were attacked when mistakenly grouped among the perpetrators of the 9-11 attacks.

    In the near term, GOPIO is coordinating a panel session on “Indian Migration to USA: Assimilation, Contributions, Opportunities & Challenges” as part of a Multidisciplinary Symposium “Looking Beyond the Fence: Politics, Power, and the Future of U.S. Immigration” to be held on March 27-29, 2015 at St John’s University in Queens, New York. In addition, GOPIO is organizing a conference on “Indian Diaspora: Assimilation and Co-Existence in Multi-Ethnic & Multi-Cultural Societies” scheduled for the day preceding GOPIO’s annual general meeting late May 2015 in New York, USA.

    GOPIO is also taking the lead role in developing a national agenda in engaging the NRI/PIO community in the USA to collaborate closely with India’s Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs and Ministry of the External Affairs on a national agenda to engage the office of the Indian Ambassador in Washington DC and all Indian Consulates in USA, the US State Department, US Department of Justice, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), MLK Foundation and others. The NRI/PIO community has a responsibility to be proactive in this national dialogue and must inclusive of all segments: media, academia, politics, businesses, science and technology, hospitality, medical professionals, philanthropy, cultural and religious, youth, women, seniors and others.

    There is urgent need for a national dialogue among the NRI/PIO community in USA and respective elected officials, civic groups, institutions and agencies to bring about more awareness, education, expectations and understanding to avoid conflicts and misperceptions which can have unintended consequences. Any further delay on this national agenda would be lost opportunity.

    (The author is  president of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO International) and very active in New York and US national deliberations on migration, assimilation, partnerships and inclusivity for good citizenship. He is founder and president of Ramex, an electronics manufacturing company based in New York where he resides with his family. Ramsaran is the recipient of India’s Pravasi Samman Award for his contributions to the Indian Diaspora.  He may be reached at : Ramsaran@aol.com)

  • A BENEVOLENT LAW ABUSED – Racketeers use SIJS to make big money

    A BENEVOLENT LAW ABUSED – Racketeers use SIJS to make big money

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    It has been said the crooks will always find creeks to enter any system in the world. And when the system is welcoming and benevolent, the infiltration is much easier. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status law (Please read the article below by eminent attorney Anand Ahuja on page 6) was enacted with a humanitarian objective to provide protection to those minors who are victims of domestic abuse. Over the years, the law stands abused. It has become a booming business in many countries to push young boys and girls, mainly boys (77%), in to the United States territory and make them take advantage of SIJS.

    The Indian Panorama Investigative team came across quite a few people in Queens and Long Island in New York who are part of the thriving racket to smuggle in young boys and girls from India. The reports received by us indicate that it is a big business in many South Asian countries, in particular, India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan as also in many other countries across the world. We were taken for a shock to get to know how elaborate the racket’s dragnet is, which involves agents in countries from which the young people are sent, agents at the Mexican side of the US border who help them cross over in to the United States, agents in the US who manage a guardian for the boy/girl and so on so forth. All this involves huge money. In India, the price to send a young boy or a girl in to USA is anywhere between $80,000 to $100,000.

    Another shocking revelation was the involvement of church in this racket. During our talk with some who are involved in the racket told us, on condition of anonymity, that at least, one    priest from a Christian Church in New York and a Sikh priest from a Sikh Gurudwara in Arizona are actively involved in running the racket. The authorities do not suspect the priests of any wrong doing and the latter take advantage of it. Our source told us that the Christian Priest who is based in New York and comes from Punjab, India, visits his home state in India to “recruit” the youth who want to come to USA. It was pointed out to us that the pries has been making regular trips for the job. He arranges the incoming youth’s stay and finds him a guardian. Interestingly, all the young people who come here and come to have guardians, work and stay elsewhere, not necessarily with their guardians. The person agreeing to be a guardian to a youth is offered a payment of between $5000.00 to$10,000. The attorney’s fees is anywhere between $3000.00 and $5000.00. We were also told about two attorneys whose services the priest utilizes regularly. Also, there are some attorneys who specialize in such cases. The gentleman who offered to be guardian to a young man confided in us that the young man had disappeared and that he had to report the disappearance to the court.

    The malaise is much deeper and goes beyond simple monetary racket. It has serious implications for America’s security. With ISIS and Al Qaeda stepping up recruitment of young people from all over the world, USA is threatened as never before because of such soft laws  which allow easy infiltration in to the country. Our source, on condition of anonymity, told us that he had come to know that the enemies of USA are all set to push in young people in to USA to carry out their agenda in America, which is to harm the country in every way.

    A thorough investigation by the US administration  agencies concerned in to the racket and  the possible infiltration of enemies of USA in to the country, taking advantage of the benevolent soft humanitarian laws needs to be  done sooner than later. And the earlier, the better.

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    (National Juvenile Justice Network)  (The Pew Charitable Trusts: May 9, 2013)

    Hundreds of thousands of youth (under age 18) attempt to enter the U.S. every year. Some come with their families, others alone, either of their own will seeking jobs, protection and family reunification or they are smuggled into the country for sweatshop labor or sexual exploitation. The exact number of children who attempt to enter the country is unknown. In 2005 granted legal permanent resident (LPR) status to 175,000 children under 14 years of age and to 196,000 youth ages 15 to 24. Twenty thousand youth ages 17 and under were accepted as refugees and 2,000 were granted asylum in the same year. Customs and Border Protection (CPB) apprehended almost 122,000 juveniles in the U.S. in 2004. Of this total, 84.6 percent were released back to Mexico, or in rare cases to Canada.

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    (The Migrationist: August 8, 2013)

    Each year, thousands of unaccompanied alien children
    (UACs) risk harrowing journeys and travel alone to seek refuge in the United States. These children come from all over the world for many reasons, including to escape persecution in their home countries, to reunify with family members and to look for a better life. In recent years, the U.S. government has had roughly 6,000-8,000 of these children in its care and custody each year. While these children may be as young as infants, most (approximately 70 percent) have been between the ages of 15 and 17. -Women’s Refugee Commission

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  • Meet Padma Shri Dr. Dattatreya Nori – Featured Indian American

    Meet Padma Shri Dr. Dattatreya Nori – Featured Indian American

    NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. Dattatreya Nori, an internationally renowned Oncologist is a recipient of one of India’s highest civil awards, “Padma Shri”. The award was announced on the eve of India’s Republic Day, January 26, 2015.

    Government of India recognizes excellence and contributions of Indians within  India and abroad every year on the eve of Republic Day.

    Dr. Nori, Professor and Executive Vice Chairman of the Radiation  Oncology Department at the New York- Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College in New-York City is passionately committed to help the less fortunate.

    Meet Padma Shri Dr. Dattatreya Nori, the renowned Oncologist

    Man does not live by bread alone. What else does one need depends on the thinking of the person.

    To Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori, it is a touch of spirituality that lends strength to him as a medical professional. A derivative of the spirituality that he possesses and practices is the desire to serve and help the less fortunate in society. In Dr. Nori one sees  a glorious combination of material success and spiritual excellence.

    Dattatreya Nori2

    Dr. Nori’s professional excellence and humanitarian approach have endeared him in both USA and India, the country of his origin. Here he is seen sharing lighter moments with President of USA Barack Obama. Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori M.D., FACR, FACRO, is Professor and Executive Vice Chairman of the Radiation Oncology Department at The NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City. In addition, Dr. Nori is Chairman of Radiation Oncology at The New York Hospital Medical Center of Queens. He is also the Director of the Cancer Center at the New York Hospital Queens, in which capacity he heads that organization’s cancer program. Dr. Nori completed his undergraduate training at Kurnool Medical College and received his postgraduate medical degree from Osmania University in India. He then joined the staff of Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, where he became Chief of the Brachytherapy Service before accepting the current position as Chairman of Radiation Oncology at Cornell.

     

    Dr. Dattatreyudu Nori, Professor and Executive Vice Chairman of the Radiation Oncology Department at the New York – Presbyterian Hospital / Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City is passionately committed to help the less fortunate. In recognition of  his professional excellence and tremendous contribution, Government of India, on 66th Republic Day of India on the January 26, 2015,  honored Dr. Nori with “Padma Shri”, one of the highest civilian awards of the country.  We, at The Indian Panorama, congratulate Dr. Nori on getting the prestigious award and wish him many more honors in times to come.

    Dr. Nori has an international reputation as a pioneer and authority in radiation oncology and brachytherapy. He was instrumental in introducing the current techniques and clinical concepts of High Dose Rate Brachytherapy for gynecological, genitourinary, thoracic and head and neck tumors. His research also included efforts to improve the outcome for patients with prostate cancer, lung cancer, pancreas, breast and other cancers. Dr. Nori has served as principal investigator for numerous clinical trails sponsored by the National Cancer Institute and has received several national and international awards for his contributions to cancer research, including the Distinguished Alumnus Award of the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center Alumni Society. He has been called “a recognized leader in his specialty” by the prestigious New England Journal of Medicine. 

    Dr. Nori served in the American Cancer Society in various positions including Chairmanship of the Professional Education Committee. The American Cancer Society honored him with their highest prestigious award “Tribute to Life” for his accomplishments in cancer research.

     

    Dattatreya Nori4
    Dr. Nori inaugurated the Brachytherapy Department of Indo-American Cancer Institute

    Dr. Nori has trained more than 150 residents and fellows, some of whom have become Chairman of academic departments in the U.S. Dr. Nori is a Fellow in the American College of Radiology, Fellow in the American College of Radiation Oncology, past President of the American Brachytherapy Society, and a current member of several national and international oncology societies. He is also an Associate Editor of three oncology journals as well as a Visiting Professor to many universities in the U.S. and abroad. He has published three books and more than 200 scientific articles. He has given several prestigious lectureships such as the Probstein Oncology lecture at Washington University in St. Louis. He received a Gold Medal from the Indian Medical Association for his contributions to cancer research and training Indian physicians in the U.S. He also received the Excelsior Award from the Network of Indian Professionals in the United States and many Indian Organizations in the U.S., such as the Nargis Dutt Cancer Foundation and the Federation of Indian Associations have honored him for his contributions to cancer research.

    Dattatreya Nori3 Dattatreya Nori5Dr. Nori has provided technical and scientific help to many cancer centers in India, South America and Israel, and he is also the Founding Member of the Indo-American Cancer Institute for Women and Children, a state-of-the art 250 bed cancer and research institute located in Hyderabad, A.P. which was inaugurated by the Prime Minister of India in 2001. In addition, Dr. Nori is a Consultant to the United Nations International Atomic Energy Agency, advising on the formulation of guidelines for the treatment of cancer in developing countries. In a recent survey conducted by the reputable Castle Connolly Medical Ltd and published in America’s Top Doctors, Dr. Nori has been selected as one of the top doctors in America. In this survey, more than 250,000 leading doctors were asked to name the nation’s best physicians in various specialties -those “to whom you would send members of your family”. The most important criterion for physician selection was excellence in patient care, education, residency, board certification, fellowships, professional reputation, research, hospital affiliation, academic stature and medical school faculty appointment and experience. In a more recent survey done by the most popular woman’s magazine in the U.S., The Ladies’ Home Journal, Dr. Nori has also been named as one of the top doctors in America for the treatment of cancers in women. Dr. Nori was also honored by Senator Jon Corgine, Chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Committee and by Council Speaker Gifford Milller for his contributions to cancer research.

    Dattatreya Nori8 Dattatreya Nori7 Dattatreya Nori6Dr. Nori continues to be active as clinician, teacher, researcher and administrator of two large Radiation Oncology Departments and the Cancer Center at New York Hospital Queens.

    As I write his profile here in New York Dr. Nori is away to India  where he is  addressing  a Global Health Summit in Kochi from January 2 to 5. Dr. Nori is there to talk about prevention of Cervical cancer in India. He is there to give out the message that it can be prevented in India just as well as it is prevented in USA. Dr. Nori is a visiting professor to many universities across the globe and is frequently traveling.

     

    In India, which is his country of origin, he has helped set up a number of hospitals. One  such hospital – Indo American Cancer Hospital  with 500 beds is state of the art cancer hospital in Hyderabad. It was founded in 2002 and was inaugurated by the then Prime Minister of India Mr. Atal Behari Vajpayee.

     

    Dr. Nori lives with his wife Subhadra in Scarsdale, New York. His wife is a physician, academician and chairperson of the Department of Rehabilitation at Jacobi Medical Center affiliated with Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York. His son, Sateesh and daughter-in- law Joy, are both attorneys and his daughter, Priya and son-in-law Himanshu, are both physicians.

     

  • Indian American Vivek Murthy is confirmed as surgeon general

    Indian American Vivek Murthy is confirmed as surgeon general

    WASHINGTON (TIP): The US Senate has at long last confirmed Vivek Murthy, M.D., M.B.A., to be the 19th surgeon general of the United States. An educator and practicing internal medicine physician, Murthy has been an outspoken champion on a number of public health issues of keen importance to family medicine.

    The 37-year-old Indian-American physician Vivek Hallegere Murthy is youngest person and first person of Indian-origin to hold the post.

    The upper house of US Congress confirmed Murthy’s nomination by 51 votes to 43 more than a year after President Barack Obama had nominated him to this top administration post on public health issues in November 2013 which saw a strong opposition from the powerful pro-gun lobby National Rifle Association (NRA).

    The final voting came yesterday soon after the Senate invoked cloture – a procedural hurdle – by same numbers (51 to 43 votes)

    href=”theindianpanorama.news/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Vivek-Murthy2.jpg”>Vivek Murthy2

    Pitching strongly for Murthy’s confirmation, Senator Dick Durbin praised Murthy for his dedication to fighting obesity, tobacco related diseases and other chronic diseases that account for seven out of the top 10 causes for death in America and make up for 84 per cent of America’s health care costs.

    “I believe Dr Murthy understands the importance of the national crises before him, and feel confident that his experiences, his training, and his tenacity have provided him the qualifications he needs to tackle these issues, and the many more he’s sure to face, head-on,” Durbin said.

    “Not only is Dr Murthy an outstanding doctor and public health expert, but he also remains closely connected to his community and family,” he said.

    “There is no question about the qualification of Dr Murthy to do his job,” said another Senator Chris Murphy, adding that Murthy has a really impressive history of commitment to international public health, building two international organizations, one that empowers hundreds of youths in the US and India to educate over 45,000 students on HIV prevention.

    Senator Richard Blumenthal said Murthy has addressed some of the nation’s most pressing health problems over the times. “Dr Murthy’s credentials are without question. They are impeccable, unquestionable and indisputable”.

    Coming out in support of Murthy, senator Daniel Markey said he has developed a skill set which is much needed for the 21st century and in an era where disease cross international boundaries.

    “It is an opportunity to put a real leader in this position,” he said.

    Senator Mazie Hirono said Murthy would make an effective surgeon general.

    On the one hand, when several senators have lauded Murthy’s nomination there were others who continued to oppose his confirmation.

    “The American people deserve a surgeon general who has proven, throughout his or her career that their main focus is a commitment to patients, not a commitment to politics.

    Murthy’s confirmation has been widely applauded.

    Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx), Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus and Co-Chair of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian-Americans, released the statement below following the U.S. Senate’s confirmation of Vivek Hallegere Murthy as the next surgeon general

    “I congratulate Dr. Murthy on his confirmation as our nation’s next surgeon general. He is a dedicated fighter for public health and I know he will work tirelessly to improve the health of all Americans. I was proud to stand with him during his confirmation process, and I look forward to working with him in his new role.

    “I’m glad that this nomination didn’t fall victim to partisan bickering and pressure from special interests, but this is more than a political victory. The confirmation of the first surgeon general of Indian descent is a victory for the entire Indian-American community, whose young children will grow up knowing that anything is within their reach.

    “It’s a victory for our medical community, with a dynamic and skilled physician leading our public health policies as our nation’s top doctor.

    “And, this is a victory for the American people and ensuring better health for all.”

    Rep. Tulsi Gabbard in her Statement on Confirmation of Vivek Murthy as Surgeon General, said “I extend my sincere congratulations to our new Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, who has demonstrated dedication to serving others. Dr. Murthy has shown his commitment and passion for improving healthcare, especially in the areas of mental health, obesity, chronic disease, and vaccinations. I look forward to working with him to serve the health and wellness needs of the American people.”

    Dr. Murthy’s parents are originally from Karnataka, India. He was born in Huddersfield, England and the family relocated to Miami, Florida when he was three years old. Dr. Murthy attended college at Harvard University, where he graduated magna cum laude in three years with a bachelor’s degree in Biochemical Sciences. He received an MD from the Yale School of Medicine and an MBA in Health Care Management from the Yale School of Management. He is currently a practicing physician at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, as well as the Hospitalist Attending Physician and Instructor in Medicine at Harvard Medical School.

    Dec 19, 2014 – 10:09 am EST
  • Dr. Sadhna Shanker Felicitated

    Dr. Sadhna Shanker Felicitated

    NEW YORK (TIP): Dr. Sadhna Shanker, a senior government of India, ministry of finance officer and wife of Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay, Consul General of India in New York, was felicitated at a meet and greet event organized by Prof. Indrajit S Saluja, editor of The Indian Panorama and his wife Lovllien Kaurr at Haveli Restaurant in Queens here on November 10. Introducing Dr. Sadhna Shanker, Renee Lobo, ITV anchor, said Dr. Shanker “is a multifaceted personality.


    2
    Assemblyman David Weprin extended greeting to Mulays. Also seen are (L to R) Prof. Saluja, Mr. Malik and Mrs. Malik



    3
    Malini Shah presented a citation from Assemblyman Paul Vallone to Dr. Sadhna Shanker. Renee Lobo ( left) reads out the citation. From L to R: Renee Lobo, Malini Shah, Mr. Malik and Dr. Sadhna Shanker



    4
    Attorney Ravi Batra welcomed Mulays



    5
    Air India General Manager Rishikant Singh extended a word of welcome to Dr. Sadhna Shanker and Ambassador Mulay.

    She is an administrator, a literary artist, a theater artist and a journalist, in her own right. One of the senior officers with Ministry of Finance, department of Revenue Services, Dr. Shanker has held a number of important administrative positions. At present, she is Advisor Advocacy, Competition Commission of India, a position she has been holding since March, 2013. Dr. Shanker distinguished herself as a creative writer, with her novel “Never a Disconnect” published in 2010.


    6



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    Ambassador Mulay celebrated his birthday, a belated one, with the gathering.

    She is almost ready with another piece of fiction. She authored a book of essays “When the Parallels Meet” on her journeys to places and cultures. Yet another book “Ahlam wa- sahlam- A Syrian Journey” was published in three languages- English, Arabic and Hindi. Dr. Shanker has been actively associated with the national television of India, Doordarshan. She scripted, hosted and anchored a number of programs.


    c2
    A little celebration. The gathering broke in to a dancing session to celebrate the occasion



    c3
    Dr. Sadhna Shanker and Ambassador Mulay mingled around and obliged with photograph


    Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Shanker exuded optimism about India’s growth. She said India was well on way to becoming a formidable economic power and praised the Indian diaspora for thinking and caring for India. About her literary plans she said she was working on a piece of fiction and would be happy to have it published soon. Dr. Shanker said she enjoyed coming to USA and, New York, in particular. She had a lot of praise for New York and the Indian American community here. Consul General Mulay obliged the gathering with a Hindi poem that depicted the loneliness of a lover whose beloved is away from him. The poem received rave appreciation. The gathering celebrated Ambassador Mulay’s birthday, a little belated one though.

    Ambassador Mulay cut a cake and the gathering celebrated with a little dancing, to the great singing by the famous Sa Re Ga Ma star Asad who had traveled all the way from New Jersey. Sikander Khan sang a few soulful ghazals to the accompaniment on Tabla by Shams Khan. The two are in attendance at Haveli to entertain guests on week ends. Present on the occasion were around a hundred men and women drawn from various sections of society. Those who spoke on the occasion included Assemblyman David Weprin who extended his greetings to Mulays and the gathering and spoke of great relationship between USA and India.

    Ravi Batra, Rishikant Singh, Prof. Saluja and Mr. Malik also spoke. Mrs. & Mr. Malik, owners of Haveli restaurant, who also own Tamba Restaurant in Manhattan, were gracious enough to provide sumptuous hospitality. Maliks have a chain of restaurants and Mrs. Malik is one of the best known chefs in the city. Mr. Malik had been a senior government of India official and had worked with two prime ministers of India. After retirement he moved to USA and got in to hospitality business. The couple is very popular in Indian social circle, both for their tasty bites and for their warmth of relationship. Earlier, on arrival, Dr. Sadhna Shanker and Ambassador Mulay were warmly received with bouquets by Mrs. & Prof. Saluja, and, Mrs. & Mr. Malik. Dr. Shanker was presented a citation by Malini Shah on behalf of New York City Councilmember Paul Vallone.

  • THE BIRTH AND GROWTH OF AN IDEA

    THE BIRTH AND GROWTH OF AN IDEA

    Every big idea has a small beginning. Gift of Life has been no exception.

    In 1974, Rotary District 7250 brought a little 5-year old named Grace Agwaru on an intercontinental voyage from Uganda to New York. Grace suffered from a hole between the two lower chambers of her young but strong heart. On November 15, 1974 surgeons at Saint Francis Hospital in Roslyn, New York successfully operated on little Grace. A big idea was born that day. The Gift of Life now includes Rotarians from all over the world, with independent chapters in countries as far away as Korea and India.

    Today, the Gift of Life is a worldwide Rotary International Service Program responsible for approximately 5000 heart surgeries for children from over 30 countries. The Gift of Life has gone global. Every good idea grows exponentially. In 2001, PDG of District 7250 Eileen Gentlecore had a simple conversation with a friend of hers and related the altruistic vision of the Gift of Life. Her friend, Past District Governor Ravishankar Bhooplapur, with the assistance of Past RI Director Sushil Gupta – Trustee of Rotary Foundation , Dr. Rajan Deshpande and many other devoted Rotarians, AC Peter, PDG Rajendra Rai, Rtn OP Khanna, DGE Kamlesh Raheja, took up the challenge to provide critical heart surgeries for the children of India.

    PDG Ravishankar Bhooplapur still serves as Honorary Chairman of Gift of Life, India today. Is it not amazing what can come of a conversation? The sole purpose of the Gift of Life, India is to secure life saving heart surgery for children in desperate need regardless of race, creed, color or country of origin. The Gift of Life, India is a not-for-profit, tax-exempt corporation with no administrative costs. All of our team members work voluntarily; all of the monies are generously donated by caring donors and through the numerous matching grants disbursed by the Rotary Foundation.

    Gift of Life program in New York has the unique distinction of bringing children from all over the world to the New York Metro Area and providing free heart Surgeries to them. These children are housed in Ronald McDonald house which is specifically given to us for this purpose. Rotarians have significantly contributed to build the Ronald McDonald house and continue to give financial support on the local level in exchange our children are accommodated pre & post-operative their surgeries. The Gift of Life still grows. We reach more children in more countries than ever before. We would like to reach more. There is no limit to this idea as long as we remain committed to saving children’s lives.

    Mission:

    To further the cause of world peace and understanding by facilitating free medical services to children suffering from heart disease regardless of race, creed, sex or national origin and who otherwise lack access to such services.

    “A Crusade of the Heart”

    The Gift of Life is a crusade of the heart, touching children in peril. An idea born in 1975 to a group of Rotarians from Manhasset, Long Island, NY, is today a global effort. We reach out to many children, who would otherwise die, and heal their failing hearts with the miracle of cardiac surgery. Our outreach spans the world, nurtured by compassion for young victims we alone can cure. Each child whose future we restore is a tribute to humanity and love, helping build bridges of friendship and peace among people everywhere.

    History

    The lives of more than 10,000 children from countries throughout the world have been saved through the miracle of open-heart surgery, in medical centers throughout the U.S. and in participating Gift of Life hospitals in Russia, Israel, Malaysia, China, Ukraine, India, Dominican Republic and the Philippines. Dedicated surgeons and nurses donate their skill to the cause. American families assist Rotarians as hosts and interpreters, bringing warmth and comfort to children and their escorts.

    Board of Directors and Officers

    Gift of Life is a dynamic program of Rotarians of Brooklyn, Queens and Nassau in partnership with the Rotary members and physicians worldwide who evaluate children for treatment in our country. Foreign doctors may also receive technical training on these shores and return to help children in their own lands. We have since opened pathways to Korea, Poland, the Russian Republics, China, Caribbean Nations and to places as distant as Mongolia, medically screening many thousands of children for lifesaving surgery.

    The spirit of the Gift of Life ignores borders. Medically advanced countries are being encouraged to do as we do – to open their own hospital doors to imperiled youngsters from developing nations. With the Gift of Life as an international model, cardiac medicine will extend its power to save many who were unreachable before. The Gift of Life has also become more of a public presence through our fund raising program Save-A-Child. In addition we hold four annual fundraisers: the Crusade of the Heart Kick-Off Dinner and black tie Gala, the Agnes T. Funk Kids for Kids Memorial 5K Walk, and our new skydiving event Jump for Life.

    Partnering Hospitals

    The following hospitals support the Gift of Life program:

    ● Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, California

    ● Maria Fareri Children’s Hospital at Westchester Medical Center Valhalla, New York

    ● St. Francis Hospital, The Heart Center Roslyn, New York

    ● The Children’s Hospital at Montefiiore Medical Center Bronx, New York

    ● The Hospital for Sick Children Toronto, Canada

    ● The Steven and Alexandra Cohen Children’s Medical Center of New York New Hyde Park, New York

  • Queens Borough President helped kick-off Queens Restaurant Week 2014

    Queens Borough President helped kick-off Queens Restaurant Week 2014

    Queens Borough President Melinda Katz helped kick-off Queens Restaurant Week 2014 by enjoying a delicious lunch with Assembly member Michael Miller (front l.), City Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley (front r.), Queens Economic Development Corporation executive director Seth Bornstein (rear l.) and Neir’s Tavern owner Loycent Gordon (rear r.) at Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven on Tuesday, October 14. Neir’s is one of more than 200 local restaurants — spread out over roughly 30 Queens neighborhoods – that are offering special discounts to diners during this 11th annual edition of Queens Restaurant Week. The event is being held this year throughOctober 30. Most of the participating restaurants are offering special three-course prix fixe dinners for only $28 per person during this promotion, while many eateries are also offering lunches for only $14 per person. It’s a great opportunity for both borough residents and visitors alike to enjoy some amazingly diverse and incredibly tasty dishes at reasonable prices. Queens Restaurant Week has been organized by the Queens Economic Development Corporation

  • WORLD’S LONGEST FRESH FLOWER GARLAND

    WORLD’S LONGEST FRESH FLOWER GARLAND

    A new Guinness World Record for the World’s Longest Fresh Flower Garland was set , August 26 afternoon in Queens by New York City Councilman Jimmy Gennaro Ashrita Furman, holder of 206 current Guinness Records, and 200 meditation students of Sri Chinmoy(1931-2007) from 35 countries, including India to honor Sri Chinmoy’s 50 years of work for world peace. Sri Chinmoy(1931-2007) was a renowned peace visionary who founded the Oneness-Home Peace Run, world’s largest torch relay for peace, composed 21000 songs, wrote 1600 books and established meditation and peace centres in 60 counries The garland, which goes 5 miles in multiple loops on Joseph-Austin-Field in the borough Queens of New York surpasses the previous record by 1.9 miles (3 km) and weighs 4000 lb (1800 kg)

  • Indians join the wave of investors in condos and homes in US

    Indians join the wave of investors in condos and homes in US

    WASHINGTON (TIP): Arun Kumar owns three apartments in New Delhi, where he has carved out a comfortable life as part of India’s rapidly expanding middle class. Not long ago, he also became a global landlord, picking up an inexpensive three-bedroom house and a duplex nearly 8,000 miles away, in St. Louis.

    For Kumar and other affluent Indians, US real estate is a security blanket. Faced with what some have considered a bubble in real estate prices in major Indian cities and a sometimes jittery Bombay Stock Exchange, they are joining a wave of buyers from other countries who see the recovering US housing market as one of the best places to put their money these days.

    The wealthy elite from China, Latin America and elsewhere have bought pieds-a-terre in glassy towers in Manhattan, luxury condos in Miami and homes along the West Coast. Law enforcement investigations have found that some foreign investors are using US real estate holdings, at least in part, to hide cash and other assets from authorities in their home country.

    But many less-than-superrich foreign investors just want a safe place to put extra savings, and their investments tend to be much less grandiose than the trophy properties that have drawn most of the attention. And for Indians in particular, who long trusted in gold to protect their wealth, US real estate offers a “very, very attractive destination,” said Subir Gokarn, director of research at Brookings India in New Delhi.

    Jed Kolko, chief economist at Trulia, an online marketplace for residential real estate, said the most popular property searches for people from India were in and around Silicon Valley, where technology firms heavily recruit from India; in the Boston and Philadelphia areas near universities that have numerous students from India; and in suburban areas of New Jersey and in Queens, where there are established Indian-American communities.In an echo of the late 1980s, foreign investment in US real estate has taken off again. A survey from the National Association of Realtors estimates that from April 2013 to March of this year, total sales to international clients were about $92.2 billion, a 35 percent increase over the previous 12 months. The figure includes purchases by recent immigrants. Foreign buyers now make up 7 per cent of total existing-home sales of $1.2 trillion, according to the survey. Of those, Indians represent 6 per cent of the purchases, spending $5.8 billion, up from $3.9 billion over the same period a year ago and on par with buyers from Britain. Canadians have long bought US property and still do so in big numbers, with purchases centered for the most part in Arizona, Florida and more recently in Las Vegas. Canada still accounts for the largest share of buyers, but China is the fastest-growing source of clients, according to the Realtors’ group.

    And Chinese buyers are bigger spenders. Their real estate purchases in the United States nearly doubled from last April to last March, increasing to $22 billion from the previous period. They accounted for nearly a quarter of all international sales in the current period.

    “Most people who can come here, they are pretty wealthy,” said Grace Tian, a broker with Realty Mark Associates in Philadelphia who often works with Chinese clients. In contrast, buyers from India are a more eclectic group. These include parents living in India who buy apartments for students attending college, making sure the units have concierge service and an extra bedroom so they can visit for extended periods, several real estate agents said. After the students leave college, the parents often keep the apartment and rent it out.

  • MALINI SHAH | a multifaceted personality

    MALINI SHAH | a multifaceted personality

    Malini Shah is a community leader who is currently President of her diamonds company, Difference Inc. She is also the Founder of Nritya Kala Kendra which was founded in 1992. It is an organization that promotes India’s Art and Culture through classes,workshops, and lectures, visiting artist programs, children’s Day at the Indian Consulate, Asian Heritage programs, and Indian Educational programs in schools. She is currently on the Advisory Committee of the Queens Museum of Art, Community and Cultural Liaison for Council Member Paul Vallone, and has also served as the chairperson for Assemblyman Nick Perry,Women’s Group Bill de Blasio for Mayor, Vice chair Queens South Asians for Bill de Blasio for Mayor , Chair Indian Americans for Melinda Katz for Queens Borough President. She enjoys being a consultant to various organizations in the USA and other countries,where she visits and holds workshops. Today she has extended her proficiency to many schools within the country with the resolve of integrating cultural education along with academic skills. Malini received Bachelor’s in Arts and Child Education from The Teachers Training Institute in India. She has spent over 30 years teaching in schools, one of which includes “Modern School, one of the most prestigious schools of India, situated in Delhi. She has conducted various lectures in rural areas for the India International Rural Cultural Center, and at various Universities in the United States of America. Also, she has contributed vastly to educational film documentaries. NKK undertakes numerous educational and informative programs all around the country and abroad through programs such as the recent Internationals Children’s Day by the Turkish Women’s League of America & Ataturk School 2014, Asian Heritage Month Queens Borough Community College 2014, the incredibly successful “Year of India “2012-2013 at Queens College, New American Program at the Queens Library, DC 37and NYC Council’s Asian American Heritage Programs, Cultural Educational Programs in schools, annual Children’s day at the NY Indian Consulate, ‘Meeting God’ exhibition at the Museum of Natural History, India Columbia Day at the Queens Museum of Art, Culture Day at Barnard College and Columbia university, Tropical Carnival, Queens Festival, Caribbean American Information Day, A Salute to Diversity at York College, United Nations Staff day International Concert, Harmony Day, workshops at Pace University, Orphan International United , Borough of Manhattan community College events, Annual Rockaway Multicultural Family Fest, World Vision 2000 Global Youth Conference in DC, A Rainbow Community Business Development Arts & Culture Exposition, Brooklyn Botanical Gardens Celebrating Cultures Events, Sacred Arts conference at Cathedral of St. John the Devine. As a Cultural Ambassador she has traveled extensively abroad for festivals sponsored by the India Tourism Development, Air India, and ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) to countries which include Kula Lumpur, Athens, Bangkok, Singapore, New York ,Caribbean. She has had the privilege to travel as part of the Indian delegation of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations headed by the former Vice President of India, Mr. Shankar Dayal Sharma. When you work so devotedly, recognition must follow. Malini has received many prestigious awards such as ‘Jewel of India’ Award, “Positive Indo-Image Award”, An Exclusive “Distinguished Leadership in the Arts and Culture Award” from Assemblyman Nick Perry .City Council Citations, “Certificate of Recognition” from Kate Murray Supervisor Town of Hempstead, for outstanding community service and significant contribution to the community (SAWA) 2013,Citation from New York City Council member Peter Koo for recognition and honor for years of service to the Community, “Outstanding Mother Award” by C.A.P.S.C., Hind Rattan Award for Outstanding Services, London, Achievement and Contribution . She is also the recipient of “Exceptional Woman Award” from South Asian American Women’s Alliance. Her autobiography appeared in the “Who’s who in India” and Best of New York. Her autobiography appeared in the “Who’s who in India” and Best of New York.