Seema Verma Tapped to Head Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Trump Administration President-Elect Donald Trump Picked the Elect Mike Pence

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December 2016 Vol 7, Issue 12 Seema Verma tapped to head Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Trump Administration President-elect Donald Trump picked the elect Mike Pence. She designed his Obamacare founder and CEO of a health policy consulting Medicaid expansion model -- known as Healthy firm, Seema Verma, to serve as Administra- Indiana Plan 2.0 -- and has advised several Repub- tor of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid lican states on how to add conservative elements Services. such as health savings accounts and employment requirements to their programs. “I am pleased to nominate Seema Verma to serve as Administrator of the Centers for Medi- Through her consulting firm SVC Inc., Verma has care and Medicaid Services,” said President- worked on other high-profile Medicaid expansion elect Trump in a statement. “She has decades of proposals for Republican governors. That includes experience advising on Medicare and Medicaid Kentucky, where Republican Gov. Matt Bevin has policy and helping states navigate our compli- threatened to pull the plug unless the Obama ad- cated systems. Together, Chairman Price and ministration approves his pending request. Bevin’s Seema Verma are the dream team that will plan includes a work requirement as a condition of transform our healthcare system for the benefit receiving benefits and lockout periods for failure of all Americans.” to pay, and is modeled off of Indiana’s Medicaid expansion model. “I am honored to be nominated by President- elect Trump today,” said Ms. Verma. “I look for- Prior to consulting, Verma worked for the Health ward to helping him tackle our nation’s daunt- and Hospital Corporation of Marion County, In- ing healthcare problems in a responsible and sustainable Verma, an Indiana resident, is best known for her work diana and the Association of State and Territorial Health w ay.” on Medicaid issues and her close ties to Vice President- Officials in Washington, D.C. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 2

From Left to right: Ram Reddy 12/1 Sheena Dwivedi 12/3 Farid A Nizami 12/3 Nitin Narkhede 12/3 Ram M Komanduri 12/4 Bharat Patel 12/4 Michael Noland 12/5 Shailina Momin 12/5 Asim Saleem 12/5 Waqa S Jani 12/5 Ziauddin Saber 12/6 Murali Talluri 12/6 Bhairavi T Thakkar 12/7 Sameer Jaffer 12/7 Parthiv Thakkar 12/8 Shahed Adeeli 12/9 Sundip S Damria 12/9 Neet A modi 12/9 Aleem Butt 12/10 Atiq Ur Rehman 12/10 V.K Taneja 12/11 Jagadish Mankal 12/11 Siraj Sholapuri 12/11 Dipak Shah 12/12 Qusro Patel 12/13 Shaik Ameenpasha 12/14 Babar Qamar 12/15 Javed Jamil 12/15 Sam Krishna 12/31 Mohammed Hyder 12/16 Puranlal Vyas 12/17 Ashvani Rampal 12/17 Rizwan W M Tabani 12/17 Sachin Mehrotra 12/17 Dean Obeidallah 12/17 Sama Thakkar 12/17 Christie Sanam 12/18 Mohd Muneeruddin 12/18 Samina Mangi 12/18 Huma Farooqui 12/19 Nawab MirOsman AK 1219 Shravyasri Reddy 12/19 Anis Lalani 12/20 Sundari Sun 12/20 Jabeen Ilyas 12/21 Aric Diamani 12/21 Minnie Sethi 12/22 Abdul Rahman Shaikh 12/22 Syed Saifullah Quadri 12/23 Aftab siddiqui 12/25 Mumtaz Hussaini 12/28 Shiraz Ameena Khan 12/31 Om Prakash Sehgal 12/23 Asghar Ali Khan 12/25 Parvez Malik 12/28 Srikanth Reddy 12/31 Priavanda Chouhan 12/23 Dharmesh Parik 12/25 Raj Malhotra 12/28 Deepthi Ashok 12/31 Rehmat Raza 12/23 Meera Singh 12/25 Srivatsa Kondapally 12/28 Ramesh Thumu 12/31 Sunila Sharma 12/23 Zaheer Abbas 12/25 Hittu Deepak 12/29 Please send your and your loved Niranjan Nathwani 12/24 Karingula Pranay 12/26 Azmina Rashed 12/29 Aijaz Quraishi 12/27 Syed Aqeel Ahmed 12/30 ones pictures to be included on Ravi Reddy Kunda 12/24 this page at no cost Uroosa Rahim 12/25 Shahid Shafi 12/27 Nimisha Patel 12/30 Kumar Vinod 12/27 Salim Kassam 12/30 [email protected] December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 3 Asia Times US BOARD OF ADVISORS - ISSN 2159-9645 Asia Times US -CHICAGO BUREAU Editor-in-Chief & Publisher

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India signed the $737 million (almost Rs 5,000 crore) contract for the acquisition of 145 M-777 ultra-light howitzers from the US in a government-to- government deal. TOI was the first to report on November 17 that PM Narendra Modi-led Cabi- net Committee on Security had cleared the deal for the acquisition of the first modern 155mm howitzers for the Army in over 30 years to break the Bofors jinx+ . The contract, of course, will also further consolidate the position of the US as one of the largest arms suppliers to India, having bagged deals worth over $15 billion since 2007. Of the 145 M-777 howitzers to be delivered from mid-2017 onwards, 120 will be “assembled, integrated and tested” in India with artillery-manufacturer BAE Systems selecting Mahindra as its business partner here. The 1.3-million strong Army has been demanding such 155mm/39-calibre ultra-light howitzers, with a strike range of over 25-km, for well over a decade now since they can be airlifted swiftly to “threatened high-altitude areas” in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh along the 4,057-km Line of Actual Control with China. The howitzer, which weighs just over 4-tonne due to the use of titanium, can be moved to altitudes up to 16,000-feet. The M-777 howitzers+ are meant to equip the new 17 Mountain Strike Corps being raised for effective conventional deterrence and “quick reaction capabili- ties” against China. The Army is being forced to cannibalize from its existing reserves to raise the 17 Corps, which will be fully in place with 90,274 troops by 2021. A series of scandals beginning with the Bofors one, and followed by the ones around South African firm Denel+ and finally Singapore Technology Kinetic’s (STK), has meant that the Army has failed to induct even a single 155mm gun for three decades. The overall artillery modernisation plan for 155mm/52-calibre guns, worth around Rs 1 lakh crore, incidentally, envisages the induction of 814 mounted, 1,580 towed, 180 wheeled and 100 tracked guns, among others. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 4 DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES

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Jashne Noor celebrated to honor DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES Noor Amrohvi in Hyderabad In every city, in every era and in every country a high bright star becomes the center of attention of everybody. Yet very few people know this fact that in order to reach that glitter and height, one has to pass through hardships besides waging practical struggle. One of such gifted people equipped with practical and professional traits is Noor Amrohvi, who is a young poet, one of the best Mushairas compere and an excellent speaker. He was born in 1973 in Amroha, (the land known for literary figures) in a literary, religious and business family. Side by side religious education (learning Quran by heart and recitation) he also got worldly education. He has the honor of being a student in Aligarh Muslim University. He secured first division in class XII and attained distinctive position in Adeeb-e- Fazil examination. Besides, from Bombay University he did his Masters in Economics and Urdu along with obtaining the post of a supervisor, his interest for education and stud- the garment designing diploma as part of the professional ies continued unabated. But finding him unfit in this frame education. Since his upbringing was done in a literary and he became a teacher in a famous English school in Bombay. educated family, he had a natural liking for Urdu literature. Noor Amrohvi has seen such difficult times and harrowing Since his childhood he has been composing and reciting hardships in life that most of the people get discouraged Urdu verses but because of his educational responsibilities, and lose their heart in the way. But out of these sufferings he did not encourage himself in this regard.When he was a and hardships, he gained enormous experience and vision grown up person then he headed towards Bombay to dis- and came out like gold. Amazingly despite all these dif- charge his domestic responsibilities. After getting into new ficult circumstances he could not disassociate himself from world besides fulfilling his professional responsibilities, he literary activities and social work. He is such a poet of high decided to quench his thirst for his poetic and literary taste. talent that distinguished personalities like Professor Pirzada and his critics started walking along with him. The literary When he was able to shoulder further responsibilities then Qasim, Professor Nisar Farooqi and John Elia appreciated his dream to spent his days and nights of youth in Bombay organization and personalities opine that Noor Amrohvi’s and praised his unmatched skills and his brilliant achieve- compeering is unique and full of logic. As far as his poetry was left half way and he had to travel to Dubai where a very ments. In Dubai he left his foot print wherever he presented bright future was waiting for him and where an opportunity is concerned, it is just like showing lamp to the sun and his “kalam” , yet in America wherever he went he left his his humanity and gentleness is superb. He is soft spoken, to serve Urdu were also available. It is said that when he was endearing remembrance. Who would have known that in Dubai, besides his professional responsibilities he would articulate, embodiment of sincerity and love, humility, and this young man who came to Bombay in search of a bright is a model of politeness. Being a businessman and with a take part in literary and poetic activities with great zeal. De- future and them move on to Dubai, would finally land in spite his appointment in an American garment factory on poetic temperament, simplicity and mercurial disposition, United States of America and become the glittering tower his friends and partners took advantage and sidelined him. for literary activities and In Radio programs he opts for novelty, innovation and the Samuels family hosted a get Urdu culture. In North psychology of the listeners in writing and presenting radio American city of Dallas in scripts. He presented new and unique programs and there- together filled with Ghazals the state of Texas where fore a large circle of the desi community is still his admirer. Noor Amrohvi came to

in Dallas DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES stay, he has to face very He is distinguished for starting the tradition of Na’atia Mus- strong opposition from hairas in Dallas city, being regularly conducted for the last various circles. After eight years. In these Mushairas besides poets from North making arrangement America many eminent poets from Indo Pak have already for his living, he started participated. Also under the aegis of the International Noor displaying his poetry, the Academy, he has been organizing for eight years, interna- oratorical talent, writing tional Urdu Mushairas and Kavi sammelen” Every celebrat- ability and administrative ed poet from Indo- Pak has participated in theses Mus- potential. He became the hairas. Now a situation has arrived that the people aspire target of criticism from that Noor Amrohvi should invite them to their Mushairas. unknown jealous quar- His sincere and close friends also help him In organizing ters. But due to true pas- the Na’atia international Mushairas which Noor Amrohvi sion hard work, diligence, conducts every year. TIP News honesty he befriended the opponent currents Mrs.Shahina Siraj, Mrs.Maliha Durani, Mrs.Fozia Pervaiz , Mrs Eram Samuels, Mrs.El- ishba Hafeez, Mrs.Marcela Almas, Mrs.Amira Desai, Mrs.Firosv, Mrs.Khan, Mrs Azeem, Mrs Saaman Ali, Suman Samuels, Shayan Siraj , and Siraj junior

From left: Arshad Almas , Younis Ejaz, Irfan Ali , Mr Khan, Nadir Durani, Siraj Butt, OS From left: Azeem A. Quadeer, Publisher Asia Times US, Mr Aqueel, Shahid Firozvi, Mod Gill, Javed Almas On the floor from the left: Showbhit, Javed Samuel, Azhar Gill, Showbhit, Yousaf Desai on guitar, Javed Samuel, Eram Samuel , Bakhtaver Samuel and Pervaiz Ahmed, Bakhtaver Samuel Suman Samuel December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 6 DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES

DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 7 Hyderabad Society of North Texas Celebrated Annual Event “Shaam-e-Hyderabad” DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES Hyderabad Society of North Texas Celeberated their An- nual Event “Shaam-e-Hyderabad” on Saturday Nov 12. The event well organised and took place at Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, TX. The evening started with welcoming the guests by Rahat and Salman followed by Quran recitation by Hafiz Saqib Vikaruddin and translation by Arsalaan Arifuddin. Dr Aasia Ali, President HSNT addressed the audience. Lifetime achievement Award was given to Mulik Sayeedi from Houston, TX. Excellent Qawali presentation by Fareed Ayaz & Abu Mo- hammed and Humnawa lead into a memorable evening. Fareed Ayaz & Abu Muhammad Qawwal & Brothers are popular for their Sufi performances.They have performed in various countries. Fareed and his relatives are the flag-bearers of that school of music (gharana), which is also known by the name of the city as the Dilli Gharana. They perform various genres of Hindustani classical music such as dhrupad, khayal, tarana, thumri and dadra.

HSNT was established in 1992 by a well-known community leader and physician, Dr. Basheer Ahmed and has been a non-profit organization since 2006. The purpose of HSNT is to help the local DFW Hyderabadis get together to have fun and to keep our Hyderabadi culture alive.

HSNT has two main get- together or events. The first one is a picnic during the spring season which is held at a local DFW park. This is an informal event which usually attracts 250 to 300 people. We enjoy kite flying, games for children of all ages,delicious food and music.

The second event of the year is a formal evening dinner which usually takes place in October or November with numerous forms of entertainment such as music, songs, DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES comedy in our Hyderabadi lingo and of course, Hy- derabadi cuisine. Last year we had qawalis which were enjoyed by many. We also get to enjoy wearing some of our traditional clothes such as sherwanis, etc. Janab Mulik Sayeedi December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 8 DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES

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DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 10 How did Plano vote? Post-election results show DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES Plano’s changing political taste If Plano decided the presidential election, more about their council members and big- the outcome would have been the same. local representatives. gest But what’s surprising is the rising number “The one thing you don’t want a political of blue pockets in Plano. party to do is go into hiding for the next 15 In the 2016 presidential election, Collin months until the next primary,” Katz said, County had record-setting turnout: Out so the team will spend considerable time of 62 voting precincts, 37 percent went to educating the community on the political Clinton/Kaine. process and how to “get off the couch and With Collin County’s continued growth, get involved.” the demographic and political palate Every Friday, about 3,000 residents can of the area could change as well. These read the Republican Party newsletter changing demographics are something to that shows readers all the club meetings, which both Collin County Republican and fundraisers and guest speeches coming up. Democratic parties are paying attention. For readers looking to learn more and get involved, Katz said the newsletter was a Neal Katz, executive director for the Col- great place to start. lin County Republican Party, said, “This “Knowledge is power and more people could be one election where a lot of people need to be given that knowledge to know voted against a candidate rather than for a what’s going on in their community,” he candidate.” said. “Local elections affect more of the more Democratic representation on local, From Katz perspective, people either liked laws that affect you on a day-to-day basis.” slates of candidates in the past 15 to 20 state and national levels. president-elect Donald Trump because Residents can usually name their president years in every Texas House district.” “That is if Trump messes up as bad as we he spoke his mind or didn’t like Trump and vice-president, but few can name one About 50 voting prescient in Collin think he will,” Rawlins said. because he spoke his mind. or two of the council members on Plano County voted majority Democratic, an However, Rawlins said, he hopes Trump “We’re very much aware of the changing City Council, “and that’s got to change,” improvement from past years, Rawlins and his constituents do govern in a bipar- demographics. and it’s the case of getting Katz said. said, which they hope to improve upon in tisan, modest fashion for the sake of the messages across,” he said. “Republicans Mike Rawlins, county chair for the Collin years to come. country as a whole. need to do a much better job getting the County Democratic Party, said, “Even He said he’s also anticipating a politi- “But from what he’s showing so far, with message across of what we stand for. We though we didn’t have any victories in cal shift in the area if the president-elect putting Bannon as his chief strategist from stand for education, family values, small the county this cycle, we made increment Trump’s presidency lives up to expecta- Breitbart, we’re taking that as an indication business.” progress in just about every race, from tions. of where he’s headed,” Rawlins said. He said 2017 would be an off-year, with the top of the ticket to the bottom of the Now that the election cycle is wrapping up, no seat up for re-election, but come 2018’s ticket,” Rawlins said. “A lot of people are extremely concerned he said his team will take time off then hit general election, there will be another elec- Plano’s noticeable shift could be attributed about Trump as president and a reaction- the ground running in January. tion cycle underway. to new residents from FedEx, Liberty Mu- ary Republican agenda coming in from For the next 15 months, Democrats want Katz said for the next 15 months, they’ll be tual and Toyota bringing their business as Congress. We’re anticipating Trump and to become more visible in the community. working to spread their message, educate well as their political views with them. But the Republicans to be as bad as a lot of “You can expect to see us a lot more visible the community and help residents learn for sure, Rawlins said, “We had one of the people think they’ll be, that there will than a lot of different kinds of outreach,” be a Democratic wave election in 2018,” he said DALLAS-HOUSTON PAGES Rawlins said. It’s a wave the party hopes will result in Family from Plano in a Fatal Crash

Ratnakar Sattipalli and his family were ICU. His daughter, Keerthana Settipalli 5 , driving down I-44 West bound when they escaped with minor injuries. were hit head on by a car coming in the wrong and opposite direction. As his entire family is in India, we need to His dear wife and 4 year old son were send Sushma Settipalli and Mahidhar Set- pronounced dead on the spot. tipalli’s bodies to India.

Ratnakar has had a surgery for a punc- Ratnakar has to be in the hospital for a few tured artery and he is recovering in the weeks. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 11 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 12 IFTEKHAR SHAREEF PAGE

At the wedding of Ms. Vijaya Laksmi only daughter of Shri Bandaru Dattarey, Union Minister of Labor and Employment at Gachhi Bowli Stadium , over 50,000 people attended the event. He is known to me for over 20 years .

V. Hanumtha Rao, Dy CM Mahmood Ali, Iftekhar Shareef, Syed Sadiq, Marri Adithya Reddy, Osman Sadi, Moham- med Azharuddin, Esa Misri and Uroosa Rahim.

After long time met my good friends today at Fateh Maidan Club , seen from left Dr Divaker Reddy co- owner Sunshine Hospital, Satish Muddamale, Prem RAJ Yadhav sports authority, Srinivas Goppagani executive member FMC, Myself and Dr Venkat Prasad Reddy chairman Fateh Maidan Club . Indo-Arab league 2nd.Anniversary event at Taj Deccan Hyderabad headed by Jaber Patel and Ateeq Siddiqui attended by Union Minister Shri Bandaru Dhattareya Ji, Home Minister Nayeni Narsimha Reddy, Moham- med Shabbir Ali Bhai and many M.P’s and ex M.P’s Thanks so much to all who came to my home tonight specially Deputy Chief Minister Mehmood Ali Sahab, Shabbir Ali Sahab MLC and floor opposition leader legislative council of Telangana State, Mohammad Azharuddin former India’s Cricket captain, V. Hanumanth Rao former M, P, Janab Farooq Hussain ML, Khaja Khayyum Anwar bhai of T-News, , Kartiq Reddy M.P contested son of former Home Minister, Marri Adithya Reddy youth congress leader son of MLA Shashidhar Reddy and grand son of former Chief Minister Chenna Reddy, Khaleeq UR Rahman, Ja- ber Patel, Ateeq Siddiqui, Ibrahim Patel, Faiz Khan icon of Paigah TV news for the detail interview on “Rubaru” famil, Mohammed Ali Baig. Especial thanks to Mohammed program Vakil the famous Ghazal Singer from Kanpur on recommended In Vijayawada with Zulfikar Ali former Mayor of Hyder- by Consul General of Chicago Dr Ausaf Sayeed and many more. Also present where Mohtesham Ali, Esa Misri, Osman Sadi, abad who was also my school mate where special invite of Ashwani Kumar Whitetiger, Naina Jaiswal, Bhagya Laxmi Jaiswal, Montfort brothers Group of All Saints High Schools ,Little Agashya Jaiswal, Asad Mohammad, Dr Prem Raj Yadav, Dawood Flower High Schools, St. Paul’s High Schools , and many Ali Sam, Layeeq Mohiuddin, Kabeer Khan, Mohib Baig, Abid such missionary schools run by this group all over India , Mohiuddin Mohiuddin, Ishaq Ali Khan, Kb jani, Osman Singer, where honored for their 50 years and 25 years of services . Amjad Khan Singer, We the students of such missionaries School salute you all .

Dinner at Fazil pervez bhai’s sons Valima with Moham- mad Ali Shabir bhai MLC floor opposition leader legislative council of TELANGANA, Syed Anwarul Huda IPS Iftekhar Shareef was honored to attend Du-Ba- Du a unique Mass Matrimonial alliance program Organised by TELANGANA Police, Zafer Javed Bhai vice chair Muf- Siasat daily and Minority development forum at Y.S Convention attapur in Hyderabad, thousands of parents gath- fakam Jah Engineering college & senior congress leader, ered to seek alliance for their sons and daughters free from any dowry system, Zaheeruddin Ali Khan Managing Naseem Arifi bhai editor Etemaad Daily and Mir Mohtesh- Editor Siasat daily,Abid Siddiqui,Fazil Hussain Parvez, Social activists from Bangalore Tazayum Oomer,Tahera am Ali Khan world bodybuilder silver medalist Sultana,Rafuq Gayum were the guest who gathered on this occasion ,Mr.Muneer Khalid and Samiuddin welcomed the gathering.Pic:Style photo service. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 13 Hina Trivedi received Asian Exemplary Civic Service Award 2016 Hina Trivedi is the president of Indo US Lions Indian Associations, founding member of Go- Club, a bridge between India and the USA. pio Chicago, Executive Board Member of AIA She is multilingual speaking seven differnent MAFS, the oraganization composed of vari- languanges and has served more than thirty ous communities. The main objective of the years for various communities, such as a organization is to help the elderly with health translator for citizenship, Green Card holders, issues, disabilities and language problems. She interview and register people to vote, assisting has attended many public awareness and social seniors in applying for Medicare or Medicaid, conferences across the globe, and has received and housing until they get back on their feet. many honors and awards from President She tutors children tutoring in order for Barack Obama, Mayor Richard M. Daley, IL them to be busy and off the streets at CEDA Secretary of State Jesse White, Congressman and LIFHITE. She says, “We must care for Danny Davis, Representative Jan Schakowsky, kids because they are our future, so we must and other locally and in India. guide them to the right direction and do what- Hina Trivedi is a single mom with two kids ever we can to help them to become proud and a strong lady of our community. She is Americans.” a person of strong faith whose role models Miss Trivedi is a cancer survivor, who are her mother, Mother Teresa, and Jhansi believes that God gave her a second chance in Ki Rami. Her hero is her dad who used to life, for a reason. Because of this, she is dedi- tell her, “Beta, we came to the USA with only cating her life to serving the needy. A smile $600, but when we die, we will leave every- on the face on a person she helps means a lot thing here, so always give value to people not to her. Her family and friends are a part of her to things.” helping hands. There are approximately 7000 She says, “We cannot change the world, but people in the Chicago land area that she and we can change ourselves to make the world her team support. She belives that the bless- a better place. We are all humans and are on ings she has recieved have to be given back to earth for a reason. the community. She is also the president of the Federation of

Shyla Congressman Elect Talluri “Raja with Praja” I love men!!! Yes...I do!!! I pity them too...the most discriminated gender is Male of the two... Their voices are muted... their pain rebuked.. Even a trace of weak- ness puts their manhood up for trial...juried and judged at the first drop of tear.. Hated for the bad deeds of Humans...their only crime being a Man... I am worried about today's little boys who will grow up to be men one day...in a world that's all about girls...are we leaving the lil men behind?? Hoping when my son becomes a man...he will have a choice to be weak!!!! A choice to be scared!!! A choice to be afraid!!! Happy Men's Day dear Men!!! Enjoy it!!! -Shyla Talluri December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 14 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 15 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES Allama Mashriqi & Kemal Ataturk

On Ataturk’s 78th Death Anniversary

By Nasim Yousaf (Allama Mashriqi’s Grandson) Inayatullah Khan (famously known as of Cambridge, Mashriqi used to wear a founder of modern Turkey. Both leaders als) to Ataturk dated October 18, 1925. Allama Mashriqi) and Mustafa Kemal Turkish Fez (hat). Then, in July of 1924, were bestowed with prestigious titles; In- Ataturk were contemporaries who are Mashriqi gifted his famous book, Taz- ayatullah Khan was given the title “Allama When Ataturk died on November 10, regarded as two of the great leaders of the kirah, to Ataturk. Later, in 1930, when Mashriqi” (Wise Man of the East) by the 1938, the Khaksar Tehrik flag at its head- 20th century. Throughout his lifetime, Mashriqi launched the Khaksar Tehrik, his famous Al-Azhar University (Islamic seat quarters (Idara-i-Aliya) was lowered to Mashriqi expressed a fondness for Turkey party’s flag was similar to the Turkish flag. of learning) in Egypt, whereas Mustafa half-mast (from November 10 to No- and Ataturk. On Ataturk’s 78th death an- Also, Mashriqi’s weekly journal Al-Islah Kemal was given the title of “Ataturk” by vember 20, 1938). And on November 20, niversary, it is worth remembering how (1934-1947) used to include information the Grand National Assembly of Turkey. 1938, the flag remained at half-mast for 6 these two leaders were connected. on Turkish political, military, and other six hours at Khaksar offices all over India. activities. Ataturk is also mentioned in Along with their political activities, the The front page of Al-Islah (November Both Ataturk and Mashriqi were born in Mashriqi and the Khaksar Tehrik’s ma- two men also shared similarities in their 18, 1938) was also dedicated to Ataturk, the 1880s, Mashriqi in Amritsar (Brit- terials (e.g. Isharat and Tazkirah). In the general philosophies. Both fought for with condolence messages on behalf of ish India) and Ataturk in Thessaloniki, 1930’s, Ataturk’s photos also appeared in freedom and equality for all and believed Mashriqi and the Khaksar Tehrik for the Greece. Mashriqi’s fondness for Turkey the Khaksar Tehrik’s historic photo album, in women’s active participation in nation fallen Turkish leader. and Ataturk stemmed from Mashriqi’s along with photos of Turkish soldiers. building. Both advocated for develop- father, Khan Ata Mohammad Khan (who And on December 30, 1935, the Khaksars, ments in science and industrialization. A Facebook page named “Allama Mashriqi was also a recipient of the Turkish medal in the presence of Mashriqi and other And both believed in freedom of religion, and Kemal Atatürk” has been dedicated to “Mejidie”). Khan Ata owned a well-known leaders, honored Ataturk with a salute at regardless of one’s faith. Additionally, the two leaders. and highly regarded newspaper called Va- a grand Khaksar Camp in Delhi (Source: both did not support the Khilafat Move- kil (started in 1895 from Amritsar), which Al-Islah, January 10, 1936). ment. Mashriqi, while sympathetic to Nasim Yousaf, grandson of Mashriqi, is a included reports on the Turkish Ottomans Turkey, considered the said movement to researcher based in the USA. He has been (among other subjects). According to the As Mashriqi and Ataturk gained in- be highly disorganized (he predicted its featured in various American publications, book entitled Indian Muslims and Parti- creasing prominence in their respective failure). Ataturk’s lack of support for the including Who’s Who in the World. He tion of India, “...enthusiasm for Turkey had countries, the parallels between the two movement is also evident from the fact has written 15 books and digitized files been created by…the Vakil...” Vakil also leaders became more apparent. Both that he refused to meet with its leaders. of rare documents related to South Asian had a Book Depot, which issued publica- made significant contributions in poli- history. His articles have been published tions related to developments in Ottoman tics; Mashriqi created South Asia’s most Despite their similarities, Mashriqi and in many countries around the world and Turkey. Mashriqi’s father’s affinity for disciplined (and largest) private army and Ataturk certainly did not agree on every- in peer-reviewed publications in the US Turkey also influenced his own views. led the freedom movement of the Indian thing. Differences in their approaches and (Harvard Asia Quarterly, Pakistaniaat, sub-continent (now Bangladesh, India, thought process can be better understood World History Encyclopedia, and Educa- Mashriqi’s affection for Turkey and and Pakistan). Meanwhile, Ataturk is by reading Mashriqi’s speech to the Inter- tion About Asia). Ataturk was evident from the early years recognized to have saved his country from national Caliphate Conference in Cairo in of his life. As a student at the University complete disintegration to emerge as the May of 1926 and his letter (with propos- Saaz aur Awaaz (630) 400-2549

DJ Shahid Lateef CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES December 2016 PAGE 16 Bolingbrook Mayor Rogerwww.Asia Claar defended Times. UShis choice for Mr. Trump Mr. Talat Rashid only Muslim / Pakistani Openly stood with him from Chicago land area Mr. Roger Claar a long time serving ment and his clear message resonated with knowledged Mr. Rashid Mayor of Bolingbrook with the popula- average American who is working hard to who admired Mayor tion of about 78,000 is very proud on his make ends meet. Americans lost so many Claar’s for inviting him choice despite a very strong criticism from manufacturing jobs that are being shifted to meet Mr. Trump the community but he but he stood firm. to over sees and no one is paying attention during fund raiser in Mayor who once supported Mr. Jeb Bush except Mr. Trump. “We were making other Bolingbrook. changed his affiliation towards Mr. Donald countries rich on the cost of our economy Trump which resulted in a good way for and jobs” Mr. Trump said repeatedly in Our 45th President Mayor Claar. We are sure that his is proud his speeches. Obama care was a disaster Donald Trump will work of his choice. and Clinton foundation was filling pockets with everyone and will of Mrs. Clinton family and not for the treat everyone equal. He Mr. Talat Rashid a member of Donald average American. Hillary who was unfit will bring reforms that Trump’s leadership team in Illinois and for President (Barack Obama 2008) could no one wanted to even well know member of Pakistani com- not convenience an average American discuss from both par- munity also stood with Trump from the what she will do for them. Trump woke ties. He will also be good day one despite oppositions from his Americans and promised them that he for Muslims who are own community. Mr. Rashid Said, “I am will work for them and will make this interested in being part very excited and humble to see that the country strong. That was his slogan “Make of this American fabric. candidate I supported from day one when America Great Again” which resonated Muslims in particular are afraid that Mr. Mayor Claar sides with Donald Trump he announced his candidacy for President with the working class Americans. Trump will have very hostile approach on several issues which are good for this Mr. Donald Trump won the election with towards them. We all know as a President country and will be positive steps to bring sizeable electoral votes”. “I was very firm He has a lot of work ahead of him fixing he will have to take all the communities back the America’s dignity back as a world and determined in supporting him despite this broken system, immigration reforms and cultures in his confidence and will do leader. For sure it is impossible for Presi- opposition from my own friends who were and foreign policy, Tax reforms, term whatever is the best of for this country. Mr. dent elect Donald Trump to make every- directly and indirectly criticizing me”. His limits and several other issues. Rashid was very disappointed that most one happy but time will tell when country victory dismisses the predictions of all of Muslims were favoring Hillary Clinton. will go back to its traditional values which the so called analysts and media pundits “I am glad that I was able to extend my We put all our eggs in one basket he said. we are all proud of. who wrote him off several times during his support towards Trump and his ideas”, Mr. Yes, immigrations rules and regulations campaign. Talat Rashid a staunch supporter of Mr. will be tough for immigrants who are here The lesson we all should learn that never trump and a member of Bolingbrook Plan illegally but again this is right thing to do. underestimate anyone’s power. God re- His success is the result of his pragmatic commission said. As you recall Mr. Talat There are thousands of illegals, refugees wards people in mysterious ways. approach to the issues faced by an average Rashid recited verses from Holy Quran and asylum seekers enter this country American who were looking for a mes- in the form of invocation before Donald every year. It is about time that the process God bless America. siah to fix the issues since none of the Trump’s Speech in Bolingbrook. “ I would must be vetted and revisited. At the same politicians ever discussed those issues. have never imagined that I would even get time it is unfair for those who entered Mr. Trump stood firm on his commit- close to Mr. Trump our next President” ac- legally in this country. FIA elects new officers, announces Indian heritage event with Windy City Bulls Elmhurst, IL: Federation of Indian Associations, Chicago, (http://www.fia-il.com/), elected Mukesh Shah as its new president at Waterford Banquet in Elmhurst, Illinois. “I feel honored and humbled to step forward to lead this organization, which has taken several initiatives in promoting our Indian culture,” said Shah, who is also a former president of the Gujarati Samaj.

Other members of the executive board for 2017 are Founder President: Sunil Shah, Founder & Past President: Onkar Singh Sangha, Founding Committee Member & Past Presi- dent: Rita Singh, Outgoing President: Dhitu Bhagwakar, Executive Vice Presidents: Neil Khot and Moon Khan, Vice Presidents: Hitesh Gandhi, Shital Daftari, Ali Khan, Man- jeet Singh Bhalla, Khaja Moinuddin, Treasurer: Payal Shah, Joint Treasurer: Jaimini Patel, Secretary: Ninad Daftari, Joint Secretary: Shalini Saxena, Directors: Nirav Shah, Mahijit Singh Virdi, Nambirajan Vaithilingam, Harsh Shah, Shetal Shah, Jatinder Singh Bedi, and Vibha Dave. Other Founding Committee Members are Sunny Kular and Monty Sayed. Founder President: Sunil Shah, President elect : Mukesh Shah, Founding member & Past President : Rita Singh, Founder & Past President: Onkar Sangha, President: Dhitu Bhag- As its first project for 2017, FIA wants to organize an Indian wakar, Executive Vice Presidents: Neil Khot & Moon Khan, Vice Presidents: Hitesh Gandhi, Shital Daftari, Ali Khan, heritage event on Friday, January 6th, in partnership with Manjeet Singh Bhalla, Khaja Moinuddin, Treasurer: Payal Shah, Secretary: Ninad Daftari, Joint Secre- Windy City Bulls, the official NBA D-League Affiliate of the tary: Shalini Saxena, Joint Treasurer: Jaimini Patel. Directors: Nirav Shah, Mahijit S Virdi, Nambirajan Chicago Bulls. The basketball sport event will take place at Vaithilingam, Harsh Shah, Shetal Shah & Jatinder Bedi. Sears Center Arena, from 7 PM. Congratulations to Mr. Mahijit S.Virdi, who is also a member of “We are going to mainstream platform to project Indian Advisory Board, Asia Times US heritage,” said Sunil Shah, Founder President.

A clever person turns great troubles into little ones and little ones into none at all.” December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 17 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES Gandhi Samaj of Chicago celebrate Diwali traditional way by lighting Diya Asian Media USA © Chicago IL: While the festival of Diwali is observed by people of different faiths for different reasons, they all acknowledge its underlying theme: the victory of good over evil and the triumph of light over darkness.

Gandhi Samaj of Chicago (GSC) (www. gandhisamajchicago.com) hosted its 32nd Annual Diwali Program on November 5, 2016 at Hanuman Temple in Glenview, IL and was led by Hitesh Gandhi and Keyur Ghayal. Gandhi Samaj of Chicago includes over 120 “Gandhi” families, native of South Gujarat part of India (Surat to Vapi), from Chicago and its close vicinity. to have such a wonderful event also The event started with social hour accom- thanks to audience of Chicago and panied by Traditional Gujarati (Indian) well-wishers who attended the event to Cuisine dinner, which was followed by make this magnificent event success- a cultural program. This is a tradition ful” said by Mr Hitesh Gandhi, Exec observed by GSC for last 32 years, where Vice President of Gandhi Samaj. families come together as a big united family to socialize and attend cultural program Cultural program touched everyone’s by young and adults. hearts as imaginations of performers (from age 5 to 60) showcased their Mr. Dipak Shah, owner and president of talents. Program started by a small Direct Floors in Woodridge, was invited Prayer followed with American & as Chief Guest and Consul General Mr. Indian National Anthems. The Bharat O.P. Meena bestowed his presence as Guest Natyam performance of Ganesh of Honor. President’s Award was given to Vandana by Krishna Gandhi, Misha Mr. Nitin C. Gandhi for his leadership and Gandhi, Freya Gandhi and Freya excellent contribution as a Vice President Viren Gandhi added a soft touch. of Gandhi Samaj of Chicago 2012-15 term. The children and adults of Gandhi Community Service Award was presented Community performed Classical to Mrs. Sushila N. Gandhi in honor of her and Bollywood Dance performances, active part in the community. Educational songs and other talents. Couple Dance Achievement Awards were awarded to performance on “Char Kadam” song the youth, who completed their education became the highlight when Couples from the college. pair performed with glorious energy.

We are prepared and ready to tackle the Special Guest performers added the revival of old and new classic, Mr. Elizar Chopra grabbed audience attention by big crowd with a solid executive plan. “It charm to the event. Mrs. Mona Bhalla, from Arya Dance Academy performed performing a Mimicry Bollywood act. was a very smooth execution even though who owns album “Kudi-Bindaas” per- Bollywood Fusion dance. Also, Mrs. we completely “Sold out” night,” “Thanks formed live with her 3 beautiful daughters. Shital Dhanani, founder of Tarana Kathak to all the sponsors of the grand event with- Dance performance reached to an extreme academy added the Classical touch with out their support it would not be possible thrill when Ms. Madhura Sane danced on her trained Kathak students and Mr. Paul GOPIO Chicago Host 2nd Annual Business Convention & Gala with Business Leaders -Ashfaq Syed

Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Mike Quigley, Sam Pitroda, Dr. Deepak Vyas, Dr. Gopal Lalmalani, Dr. Neeti Para- shar and Board members lighting the lamp Dr. Ausaf Sayeed, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Mike Quigley, Sam Pitroda, Dr. Deepak Vyas, Dr. Go- at GOPIO Annual Business Convention & pal Lalmalani, Dr. Neeti Parashar, Board members and Community at GOPIO Annual Busi- Gala. ness Convention & Gala. How do you know where you are going if you don’t know where you come from? December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 18 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 19 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES

From Nasir Jahangir: Thank you to our non Muslim neighbors from. near and far who came in the hundreds to attend an Open Mosque day at Midwest Islamic Center. I know and was told crowd was overflowing at tge entrance too. There was real concern displayed by those attending. Most notable of friends attending were US Congressional Elect Raja Krishnamoorthi, State Rep reelect Michelle Mussman and Hanover Park Mayor Rodney Craig, Hanover Park Trustee Sharmin Shahjahan, along with a number of Church clergy. It was a well organised and very informative event.. especial thanks to Masjid Alhuda, it's Board, AMAN, Brussels Omer Haqqani and countless volunteers! InshaAllah may there be many more informative events like this December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 20 CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES CHICAGO PAGES Sunil Shah Birthday Bash

Gladson Varghese and Dr. Marina Gladson Congratulations to Ali Saad and at Sobin and Preenu’s Wedding Reception in Sadia Saad on their marriage Downtown Chicago.

Happy Anniversary to Mr. and Mrs Raju Chinthala

Mr. and Mrs Shirley Kalvakota marriage anniversary celebration at her house with Gurmeet Singh

Bharti Desai performing Dayro with Gujarati Film Playback Imam Musa Azam of Indiana and Azeem Vibha Dave with Raja Singer Padma Shri Bhikhudan Gadhvi in Alabama. A. Quadeer at an event in Dallas Krishnamoorthi and Uma Parth Ravani (Future Star) Aramandla Katiki. with Armaan Malik

Rafee Kidwai, Mohammed Waseem, Zaki Basalath, Gurmeet Singh, Abdul Gafoor, Azeem ul Haq and others at a Karaoke party

Mushaira at Glendale Heights Library: Mr. Waliuddin and others

Anil Shah, President at World’s Money Exchange, Inc congratulating Ms. Payal Shah on her Birthday World Brahmin Federation Canada December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 21 Now he owns our problems The underdog of yesterday has become our top dog today. His alternate reality we Some have compared this election result to the tragedy of 9/11. mocked just a few days ago, has turned into our manifest destiny. The political games we Some made doomsday predictions to follow. That this was another were watching all these past several months, have now concluded. The winners are cel- watershed moment in the political history of our country. Happily ebrating, the losers are agitating. Our exceptional democracy has once again spoken with though the sun came up the next morning on November 9, bright great clarity and speed, handing the victory to a candidate whose vote count was almost and warm, and every morning since. The markets are booming. 2 million short of the loser. In our brief life time we have witnessed this anomaly in our The Dow is hitting all time highs. There is not a cloud in sight. Dr. Azher Quader national politics twice already. Only in America could this happen. Thanks for another So why the sadness and anger? Why the disappointments and ‘college’, that has helped boost the fortunes of Mr. Trump, he now becomes the leader of demonstrations? Why not give the man a chance? How much can he falter? How much the free world. chaos can he create? How many of his promises can he keep? The days of locker room In the aftermath of this stunning election loss the Democrats have a lot to rethink about, talk are over. Now the serious task of governing begins. Now he owns our problems, our as they try to regroup and reorganize. The Republicans too have much to consider anger and our future. As a people with hope, we must wish him success, for in his success as they rejoice in their tainted victory on technicality and not on popularity. Clearly we all may yet succeed to a better life. America is at a tipping point. Our struggle for a ‘more perfect union’ has never been in such trouble, our citizenry never seemingly so divided and torn apart. There are at play so many competing passions and so many divergent agendas, sometimes we wonder if we are one country any more. There are many threads that are knotted together in this painful knot of rage we are witnessing across the land, not only today but has been so, throughout these past several months, which marked this election cycle. There is the hurt of an economy where the middle class is suffering and the billionaire class is prospering. There is the agony of a broken criminal justice system where black lives don’t matter and their blood is spilled every day on our streets. There is the constant ache of an immigration system which stubbornly resists reform, and argues to place rules over reason, preferring to tear families apart. There is the cold indifference of a healthcare system, which puts profits over people, procedures over outcomes and denies access to millions, claiming healthcare is a privilege not a right. There is the resentful arrogance of big business, which poisons the water we drink, pollutes the air we breath, contami- nates the soil we live on, and refuses to change their ways, because they have the money to buy our politicians and purchase their votes. For people of color, for Gays and Lesbi- ans, for Muslims there is the added fear of violence in the streets, hostility on campuses, bullying in schools, even banishment from their homes. America is alive and kicking K. Ashraf

tions under all sorts of Presidents. attractive he became for conservative voters. Donald Trump won the Mr. Trump may prove the best of Presidents or the worst Ms. Clinton on the other hand relied on Obama legacy presidency of United States of Presidents or may be an average President America is to begin with. It was a wrong strategy. Nobody wanted of America, but he failed to going to endure him. 4 more years of Mr. Obama. No matter how successful win many hearts and mind I know Republicans have won majority in both house of president he was he had served his two terms. He also saw across the country. Now, Representatives and Senate and they have affirmed work- Ms. Clinton as an opportunity to preserve his legacy. A those hearts and minds are protesting against him all ing with Mr. Trump, we should not construe from this president’s legacy should survive on its own merits and over the country. In a reaction to those protesters first Mr. that Mr. Trump will get everything he will ask for. The demerits. It should not depend on incoming president. Trump called them “Professional Protesters” in a tweet collective wisdom of both houses will keep Mr. Trump at Mr. Obama got it wrong and Ms. Clinton reciprocated and then in another tweet he called them “Passionate” leash. He is not going to get everything he would like to President Obama’s false perception of preserving his Americans. get. So let us not worry too much. Let us try to maintain legacy. There is a great lesson to learn for future presiden- I think Mr. Trump should be given opportunity to lead our cool and let Mr. Trump go ahead with his presidency. tial candidates. the country for next four years. He has won the election As far as protesters’ protests are concerned, they just tell With Clinton’s campaign moving forward, President by fellow Americans and their vote should be respected. me America is alive and kicking. It is a good scenario Obama practically took over her campaign. He clashed That’s how democracy works and that’s how it should in a way. They are sending the right message to Mr. with Trump of course on behalf of Ms. Clinton. It belittled work. When two candidates contest election against one Trump even before he has sworn in. With these protests Ms. Clinton as presidential candidate. Mr. Obama’s shad- and other one has to lose when the other wins. he should know that he is not going to have free ride. ow engulfed Ms. Clinton completely. By the the the last Of course, we deserve the right to disagree with his Americans are going to watch his every move. So instead day of her campaign, It was President Obama and First agenda. The protesters should protest against agenda of acting as a loose canon he will have to act responsibly. Lady Mrs. Obama who pleaded voters on Ms. Clinton’s items item by item but should not deny him the right to behalf. What a belittling gesture. A future presidential swear in as next President of the United States. Why Trump won and Clinton lost? candidate should have stood tall on her own. She lost the I did not vote for Mr. Trump, as a matter of fact a large Media polls were right; opinion poll were right; exit polls last opportunity and then paid the heavy price by losing majority of Americans did not participate in elections, were right; but then how Trump won and Clinton lost? election on November 8. Comparative to her Mr. Trump but when I see the signs in protesting youngsters hands The media people world over are pointing out American stood on his feet even at his weakest moments. that “Trump is not my President” I get little dismayed. It media’s inability to portray the real picture of election Another major blow to Clinton campaign was FBI’s anis unbecoming of being an American to lose hope. Refusal map in its own country. There was nothing wrong with nouncement to reopen emails investigation case against to accept Mr. Trump’s victory is like losing hope, which is media reports, polls and commentaries. However, there her 10 days before polls. Was it an innocent mistake the last thing which as Americans we should do. was deflection in election that media could not interpret by FBI or it was else? This announcement did cost Ms. America is a strong and powerful country. It has func- correctly. This deflection was on both Trump and Clinton Clinton her election. Her popularity dipped several points tional institutions which have the ability to deal with any side. in all leading national polls. She could really not recover situation. We lived under the worst of Presidents and the First, let us look at the deflection on Trump side. Trump from this blow. By the time, one day before election when best of Presidents, we maintained our agility in all situa- started his campaign as a Republican against Republican FBI cleared her the FBI announcement had done the candidates. During the process of achieving Republi- damage. can party he distanced himself from Washington based So Mr. Trump won and Ms. Clinton lost this election. Mr. elected Republicans through his nagging actions and Trump used all his flaws to his advantage to distinguish statements. The more he distanced himself the stronger his stature as a presidential candidate whereas Ms. Clinton support he built in conservatives across the United States. shrunk herself as a potential president of USA by letting By the time he accepted the nomination he was a one president Obama overshadow her. standing tall guy with a serious opposition within Repub- There are many more factors in Trump’s victory and lican party elected cadres. This strategy was working for Clinton’s failure. However, it was the contrast of two per- him. Annoy the elected republicans but connect with the sonalities how they presented themselves to the American republican voters. This strategy led to his ultimate success voters. on November 8 election. The individual he became the December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 22 Fidel Castro, who defied US for 50 years, dies at 90 in Cuba

MIAMI (AP) — Fidel Castro, in Havana’s Miramar neighbor- who led a rebel army to improb- hood when he heard that Fidel able victory, embraced Soviet- Castro had died. style communism and defied the “Fidel? Fidel?” he said, slapping power of 10 U.S. presidents dur- his head in shock. “That’s not ing his half century rule of Cuba, what I was expecting. One always has died at age 90. thought that he would last for- With a shaking voice, President ever. It doesn’t seem true.” Raul Castro said on state televi- “It’s a tragedy,” said 22-year-old sion that his older brother died at nurse Dayan Montalvo. “We all 10:29 p.m. Friday. He ended the grew up with him. I feel really announcement by shouting the hurt by the news that we just revolutionary slogan: “Toward h e ard .” victory, always!” But the news cheered the com- Castro’s reign over the island- munity of Cuban exiles in Florida nation 90 miles (145 kilometers) who had fled Castro’s govern- from Florida was marked by the ment. Thousands gathered in the U.S.-backed Bay of Pigs invasion streets in Miami’s Little Havana in 1961 and the Cuban Missile to cheer and wave Cuban flags. Crisis a year later that brought Fidel Castro Ruz was born the world to the brink of nuclear Aug. 13, 1926, in eastern Cuba’s war. The bearded revolutionary, sugar country, where his Spanish who survived a crippling U.S. immigrant father worked first Cubans fled, including Castro’s Kennedy announced there were Mirta Diaz Balart, had one son trade embargo as well as dozens, recruiting labor for U.S. sugar daughter Alina Fernandez Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba before divorcing in 1956. Then, possibly hundreds, of assassina- companies and later built up a Revuelta and his younger sister and imposed a naval blockade of for more than four decades, Cas- tion plots, died 10 years after ill prosperous plantation of his own. Juana. the island. Humankind held its tro had a relationship with Dalia health forced him to hand power Castro attended Jesuit schools, Still, the revolution thrilled breath, and after a tense week of Soto del Valle. They had five sons over to Raul. then the University of Havana, millions in Cuba and across diplomacy, Soviet leader Nikita together and were said to have Castro overcame imprisonment where he received law and social Latin America who saw it as Krushchev removed them. Never married quietly in 1980. at the hands of dictator Fulgen- science degrees. His life as a rebel an example of how the seem- had the world felt so close to By the time Castro resigned 49 cio Batista, exile in Mexico and began in 1953 with a reckless ingly arrogant Yankees could be nuclear war. years after his triumphant arrival a disastrous start to his rebel- attack on the Moncada military defied. And many on the island Castro cobbled revolutionary in Havana, he was the world’s lion before triumphantly riding barracks in the eastern city of were happy to see the seizure of groups together into the new Cu- longest ruling head of govern- into Havana in January 1959 to Santiago. Most of his comrades property of the landed class, the ban Communist Party, with him ment, aside from monarchs. become, at age 32, the youngest were killed and Fidel and his expulsion of American gangsters as first secretary. Labor unions In retirement, Castro voiced un- leader in Latin America. For de- brother Raul went to prison. and the closure of their casinos. lost the right to strike. The wavering support as Raul slowly cades, he served as an inspiration Fidel turned his trial defense into Castro’s speeches, lasting up to Catholic Church and other reli- but deliberately enacted sweeping and source of support to revolu- a manifesto that he smuggled out six hours, became the soundtrack gious institutions were harassed. changes to the Marxist system he tionaries from Latin America to of jail, famously declaring, “His- of Cuban life and his 269-min- Neighborhood “revolutionary had built. Africa. tory will absolve me.” ute speech to the U.N. General defense committees” kept an eye His longevity allowed the young- His commitment to socialism Freed under a pardon, Castro Assembly in 1960 set the world on everyone. er brother to consolidate control, was unwavering, though his fled to Mexico and organized a body’s record for length that still Castro exported revolution to perhaps lengthening the revolu- power finally began to fade in rebel band that returned in 1956, stood more than five decades Latin American countries in the tion well past both men’s lives. In mid-2006 when a gastrointestinal sailing across the Gulf of Mex- later. 1960s, and dispatched Cuban February 2013, Raul announced ailment forced him to hand over ico to Cuba on a yacht named As Castro moved into the Soviet troops to Africa to fight Western- that he would retire as president the presidency to Raul in 2008, Granma. After losing most of his bloc, Washington began working backed regimes in the 1970s. in 2018 and named newly minted provisionally at first and then group in a bungled landing, he to oust him, cutting U.S. purchas- Over the decades, he sent Cuban Vice President Miguel Diaz- permanently. His defiant image rallied support in Cuba’s eastern es of sugar, the island’s economic doctors abroad to tend to the Canel as his successor. lingered long after he gave up Sierra Maestra mountains. mainstay. Castro, in turn, confis- poor, and gave sanctuary to fugi- “I’ll be 90 years old soon,” Castro his trademark Cohiba cigars for Three years later, tens of thou- cated $1 billion in U.S. assets. tive Black Panther leaders from said at an April 2016 Communist health reasons and his tall frame sands spilled into the streets The American government im- the U.S. Party congress where he made his grew stooped. of Havana to celebrate Batista’s posed a trade embargo, banning But the collapse of the Soviet bloc most extensive public appearance “Socialism or death” remained downfall and catch a glimpse virtually all U.S. exports to the ended billions in preferential in years. “Soon I’ll be like all the Castro’s rallying cry even as of Castro as his rebel caravan island except for food and medi- trade and subsidies for Cuba, others. The time will come for all Western-style democracy swept arrived in the capital on Jan. 8, cine, and it severed diplomatic sending its economy into a tail- of us, but the ideas of the Cuban the globe and other communist 1959. ties on Jan. 3, 1961. spin. Castro briefly experimented Communists will remain as proof regimes in China and Vietnam The U.S. was among the first to On April 16 of that year, Castro with an opening to foreign that on this planet, if one works embraced capitalism, leaving this formally recognize his govern- declared his revolution to be capitalists and limited private with fervor and dignity, they can island of 11 million people an ment, cautiously trusting Castro’s socialist, and the next day, about enterprise. produce the material and cultural economically crippled Marxist early assurances he merely 1,400 Cuban exiles stormed the As the end of the Cold War goods that human beings need curiosity. wanted to restore democracy, not beach at the Bay of Pigs on Cuba’s eased global tensions, many and that need to be fought for He survived long enough to see install socialism. south coast. But the CIA-backed Latin American and European without ever giving up.” Raul Castro negotiate an open- Within months, Castro was im- invasion failed. countries re-established relations Cuba’s government announced ing with U.S. President Barack posing radical economic reforms. The debacle forced the U.S. to with Cuba. In January 1998, Pope that Castro’s ashes would be Obama on Dec. 17, 2014, when Members of the old government give up on the idea of invad- John Paul II visited a nation that interred on Dec. 4 in the east- Washington and Havana an- went before summary courts, and ing Cuba, but that didn’t stop had been officially atheist until ern city of Santiago that was a nounced they would move to at least 582 were shot by firing Washington and Castro’s exiled the early 1990s. birthplace of his revolution. That restore diplomatic ties for the squads over two years. Indepen- enemies from trying to do him Aided by a tourism boom, the will follow more than a week first time since they were severed dent newspapers were closed and in. By Cuban count, he was the economy slowly recovered and of honors, including a nearly in 1961. He cautiously blessed in the early years, homosexuals target of more than 630 assas- Castro steadily reasserted gov- nationwide caravan retracing, in the historic deal with his lifelong were herded into camps for “re- sination plots by militant Cuban ernment control, stifling much of reverse, his tour from Santiago to enemy in a letter published after education.” exiles or the U.S. government. the limited free enterprise toler- Havana with the triumph of the a monthlong silence. Obama The biggest crisis of the Cold ated during harder times. revolution in 1959 made a historic visit to Havana in In 1964, Castro acknowledged War between Washington and As flamboyant as he was in pub- March 2016. holding 15,000 political prison- Moscow exploded on Oct. 22, lic, Castro tried to lead a discreet Carlos Rodriguez, 15, was sitting ers. Hundreds of thousands of 1962, when President John F. private life. He and his first wife, December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 23 Lt Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa chosen as new army chief After weeks of intense speculation and long course, but have had different career handling affairs in Kashmir and rumours, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has trajectories. the northern areas of the country. finalised the selection of two senior army Read: Challenges for the new army chief As a major general, he led the officers as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) and The formal process for nomination starts Force Command Northern Areas. Chairman Joint Chief of Staff Committee with the General Headquarters sending He also served in the 10 Corps as (CJCSC), reported DawnNews. a list of the senior-most generals to the lieutenant colonel, where he was A career infantry officer belonging to the prime minister via the defence ministry, GSO. Baloch Regiment, Lt Gen Qamar Javed Ba- but without making any formal recom- jwa has been appointed as the new COAS, mendations. Despite his extensive involvement while Lt Gen Zubair Hayat has been ap- The PM then holds informal consultations with Kashmir and northern areas, pointed the CJCSC. with the outgoing army chief before an- he is said to consider extremism a easy-going and full of compassion,” an Lt Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa and Lt Gen nouncing his decision. bigger threat for the country than India. officer who had served under him said, Zubair Hayat will be promoted to the rank Lt Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa was something Lt Gen Bajwa has served with a UN mis- adding that he was not protocol-minded of four-star generals. of a dark horse in this race for the post of sion in Congo as a brigade commander either. Gen Bajwa is also said to be an apo- Both generals would take up their new COAS. alongside former Indian army chief Gen litical person without any biases. posts from Tuesday, the day the current He is currently serving at the GHQ as Bikram Singh, who was also there as a He is from the infantry’s Baloch Regiment, army chief Raheel Sharif retires. Inspector General of Training and Evalua- division commander. which has given three officers to the post Others in contention for the post of army tion — the position Gen Sharif held before He has previously also remained the com- of army chief — Gen Yahya Khan, Gen chief were Bahawalpur Corps Com- becoming army chief — he has command- mandant of the Infantry School in Quetta. Aslam Beg and Gen Kayani. mander Lt Gen Javed Iqbal Ramday and ed the 10 Corps, the army’s largest, which His military colleagues say he is not atten- and the serving Chief of General Staff Multan Corps Commander Lt Gen Ishfaq is responsible for the area along the Line of tion-seeking and remains well-connected (CGS). Nadeem. Control (LoC). with his troops. All four generals are from the PMA’s 62nd Lt Gen Bajwa has extensive experience of “He is extremely professional, but very Grandson of Gandhi, a former top NASA scientist, dies in poverty

NEW DELHI -- Kanubhai Ramdas Gan- against the British colonial government’s living a luxurious life until recently. And Care Unit (ICU) of the home, however, dhi was the grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, tax on salt production. now we are here.” Why the childless couple was equipped with a bed and an air con- the man revered as the “Father of the Na- decided to up and leave the U.S. after 40 ditioning unit for the couple when they tion” by many in India, but he died quietly But in the U.S., where he spent four de- years and return to India to spent their moved in. on Monday in a small hospital in a small cades, he is more known as a scientist. In lives hopping between old-age homes re- town where he couldn’t even afford to pay 1961, the then-U.S. Ambassador to India mains a mystery, but Shivalaxmi alluded to An old Gandhi family friend, Dhimant his medical bills. John Kenneth Galbraith recommended it in the same interview with The Hindu. Badhia, had to raise money for Kanubhai’s It was an inglorious ending for a man who, him for studies at the Massachusetts “We destroyed everything we had and we treatment for paralysis after a recent heart in addition to carrying the most famous Institute of Technology (MIT). After his came here. It’s a long story,” she told the attack. After the news of his illness broke, name in India, also lived richly for 25 studies, he worked for NASA and the U.S. newspaper. several politicians visited him, offering years as a top scientist for NASA. Defence Department, honing the structure money and getting photo-ops. Kanubhai Gandhi was the son of Mahatma of wings for fighter jets. Whatever the long story is, they returned He only survived about a week in the Gandhi’s third son Ramdas. The only en- in 2014, lived in various ashrams (Indian facility. Mahatma Gandhi is led down a during image of Kanubhai for most Indi- His wife Shivalaxmi, who he is survived spiritual institutes or monasteries) in the road by his grandson, Kanubhai Gandhi, ans is one taken of him as a child, leading by, was a professor at the Boston Biomedi- Indian state of Gujarat before moving into during the former’s iconic Salt Satyagraha his grandfather and holding onto his walk- cal Research Institute. an old-age home in New Delhi in May this protest against British colonial taxation in ing stick for him during the historic Salt year. Mumbai, in 1930. Satyagraha in Mumbai in 1930. The Salt “We have had fun,” she told Indian news- The home, called Guru Vishram Vridh Satyagraha was Gandhi’s hugely popular, paper The Hindu earlier this year. “We Ashram, has around 125 residents, all of non-violent civil disobedience movement were invited to so many parties... We were whom sleep on the floor. The Intensive India should ask Israel and USA to recognize State of Palestine as command of UN

“Israeli President, Mr. Rivlin has been re- The Israeli Prime Minister boldly stated, under the siege of the Israeli Army. Prof. Prof.Bhim Singh an author of the United ceived by Modi Govt. as a hero in spite of “We recognize that terrorism is a global Bhim Singh expressed surprise that Indian Nations Resolution 81 on the division the fact that Israel has not recognized State challenge, knows no boundaries and has Prime Minister failed to remind Israel of Palestine said today that Israel had of Palestine as was recommended and extensive links with other forms of orga- about its longest subjugation of the people given birth to international terrorism and directed by the United Nations and the nized crime. We stand together defending of Israel even after United Nations had de- describing Israel as a master of peace that Security Council repeatedly.” Prof.Bhim our people.” Prof.Bhim Singh reminded clared Israel as a sovereign country which too by the Indian Prime Minister cannot Singh, Founder & Chief Patron of National President of Israel of the past massacre got split from Palestine in 1948. Prof.Bhim be digested by the free thinkers and those Panthers Party and an expert on the affairs of the Palestinians inside the old State of Singh reminded Shri Narendra Modi, the who have been watching massacre and of the State of Palestine said in a state- Palestine and urged the Prime Minister of Prime Minister of India that he can forego subjugation of the Palestinians since 1947. ment from New Delhi this afternoon. The India to read the history of the massacre, or even disagree with the policies and phi- Panthers Party patron who has had close killings and murders of the Palestinians by losophies of the Congress Prime Ministers Prof.Bhim Singh urged Prime Minister association with Palestinian Hero, Yasir Zionist activists inside Palestine. and leaders but he cannot slice out India of India to convey this message on behalf Arafat for several years expressed surprise from the history of the world. The Prime of 127 crores Indians that Israel should on the reception and ovation given to Prof.Bhim Singh who is also Chairman Minister of India should have recognized give recognition to the State of Palestine the Israeli President by the Indian Govt. of Indo-Palestine Friendship Society and Palestine as a state, which at present, without any delay and without any hesita- during his visit to India without speaking expert on the affairs of Palestine expressed stands recognized as a sovereign nation by tion so that the citizens of Palestine shall a word on the affairs of the great people of surprise that the President of Israel was India. India has been pleading inside and also retain their past dignity and honour Palestine who have been living under siege given a heroic reception at Rashtrapati outside the United Nations that Palestine which has been under threat ever since the since 1948 when Palestine was dissected in Bhawan and Hyderabad House without and Israel should be given equal footing creation of Israel. 1948 by the United Nations under Resolu- mentioning a word on the suppression and on the platform of international diplomacy tion 81. oppression of the people of Palestine in and the world’s political scenario. Sd/-Sudesh Dogra, Political Secretory Israel as well as in Palestine which is still December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 24 Is your Vehicle in a Re-Call Check here

Your vehicle MAY be involved in a safety Subject : Fuel Pump Sealing Make / Model Years : DODGE / 2016 recall and MAY create a safety risk for you Rings may Leak Fuel NHTSA Campaign ID Number : Subject : Windshield Wiper Cir- or your passengers. If left unrepaired, a 16V805 cuit Failure potential safety defect could lead to injury NHTSA Campaign ID Number : Manufacturer : Terex South Dakota, Inc. or even death. Safety defects must be re- 16V794 Make / Model Years : TEREX / 2009- NHTSA Campaign ID Number : paired by a dealer at no cost to you. Manufacturer : Winnebago Industries, 2014 16V814 Inc Subject : Improper Wiring may Manufacturer : Chrysler (FCA US LLC) The following may apply to one or more of Make / Model Years : ITASCA / 2017 allow Unintended Boom Movement Make / Model Years : DODGE / 2016 your vehicles if your vehicle is listed below. 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Asia Times US for FREE Subscription Email to: FREE [email protected] FREE December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 25 Safety Hazards to Watch Out for Around the House Make sure you’re doing everything you and no wires are frayed. Don’t overload Ways to minimize risks: doors and drawers to help keep even the can to keep your family safe. Consult this electrical outlets, either. In fact, it’s a smart Close the Trash most determined youngsters out. guide of nine common safety hazards practice to unplug small appliances like Use a locking garbage can to protect small Lock Up Detergent in the home for quick, simple solutions toasters when not in use. fingers and pets from finding sharp edges As with all household cleaners, keep to keep you and your loved ones out of Purchase a Fire Extinguisher on opened cans and lids. The Sterilite detergent locked out of reach of pets and harm’s way. Keep at least one fire extinguisher in your Locking StepOn Wastebasket is an attrac- kids. If you use detergent pods, make sure home—and check it annually to verify it tive solution that adds an extra layer of children don’t mistake them for candy. 1. Falls is in good working order and up to date. safety to your kitchen. Never fill the soap dispenser until you’re Injuries due to falls are one of the most Keep a multi-purpose fire extinguisher, Store Kitchen Supplies ready to start a load and always check your common household hazards. In fact, one like the Kidee FA110, handy in the kitchen Knives, graters, and peelers are common dishwasher for leftover residue after each out of five older adults who falls incurs a or near the fireplace. items that can lead to nasty cuts. Properly cycle. broken bone or a head injury. Wet floors, 3. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning store all sharp kitchen tools and lock them slippery stairs, and scattered toys all create up if you have small children in the home. 7. Strangling the potential for falls. Low exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) Put Away Yard Tools Cords on window dressings like blinds Ways to minimize risks: can cause headaches and dizziness, while Lawn tools, including rakes, saws, and or curtains present a common strangling Stabilize Staircases high levels can lead to vomiting, impaired lawn mowers, can cause harm if not used hazard to small children and infants. Here Make sure all staircases have solid hand- vision, and even death. Carbon monoxide and stored properly. Stay alert when using are a few ways you can help make your rails, securely affixed flooring, adequate is virtually impossible to detect by smell, power tools and never rush while mowing home safer for little ones. lighting, and safety gates if there are small sight, or sound, making it a difficult threat the lawn or using the weed whacker. Never Ways to minimize risks: children in the home. The Regalo Easy to discern. But there are things you can do leave tools lying around and always keep Put Cords Away Step Walk Thru Gate is adjustable to most to ward off CO-related injuries. them locked in a shed or garage where Keep window and electrical cords out of spaces and easy to use, even with a baby in Ways to minimize risks: kids can’t access them. reach of little ones. Never place a crib or your arms. Install a CO Detector Lock the Bathroom bed under a window with dangling cords. Clear Outdoor Steps You can help keep your family safe by If you use a razor, keep it on a high shelf Trim or Remove Window Cords Keep all outside stairs clear of debris and installing a carbon monoxide detector that or locked in a cabinet. Store extra blades in To keep children from getting tangled up, hazards like ice and snow. Add secured alerts you if CO reaches dangerous levels drawers with safety guards and keep other trim cords to a length that is only acces- mats or grip tape to make surfaces less in your home. A detector that plugs into grooming tools like cuticle scissors safely sible to the adults in the home. Better yet, slippery. an electrical outlet, like the Kidde Night- stowed as well. Child safety locks are easy trade out window treatments for designs Secure Bathrooms hawk Alarm, provides extra reassurance to install and keep little fingers away from without cords. If you like the look of Secure rugs to avoid slipping and water and saves you from needing to change dangerous implements. blinds, make your windows attractive and pooling on slick surfaces. Non-slip stickers batteries. Point Knives and Forks Down safe with Achim Home Furnishings Cord- are another good way to keep everyone in Keep Up Home Maintenance Keep little ones safe from sharp points by less Pleated Shades. your home from slipping in the shower. Prevent carbon monoxide leaks by having pointing knives and forks downward in Wrap Them Up Corral Toys your HVAC system, water heater, and the utensil basket of the dishwasher. Place If you’re not ready to redecorate, you can Provide an easy space for kids to stow other appliances that use gas, oil, or coal the basket away from the front of the dish- make your home safe by installing blind toys and make sure every playdate ends serviced by a professional every year. washer as well, to make sharp objects even cord wraps to your current window cover- without injury. Secure skateboards, bikes, When buying a home, have these systems less accessible. ings. Dreambaby Blind Cord Wraps are and other mobile toys in a safe area where inspected before purchase. 6. Poisoning affordable, easy to install, and transparent, family members and visitors won’t trip on There were over two million poisoning in- so they won’t clash with your decor. them. 4. Choking cidents reported to poison control centers Install Supports Choking is the country’s fourth-largest nationwide in 2014. Several household 8. Drowning Install safety rails like the Medline Bathtub cause of accidental death, claiming nearly items present poisoning hazards, including Drowning isn’t only a risk outdoors dur- Bar to help family members old and young 5,000 victims in 2014. From a bit of dinner cleaning and home maintenance supplies. ing summer—it can also present a hazard safely get in and out of the shower. Or use going down the wrong way to a young- However, a little diligence and the right in the home. Deaths from drowning in a these Balance Assist Bars, which are small ster accidentally swallowing a small item, know-how can decrease the chance of any- bathtub have increased by 70% in the past enough to fit in any shower, and more than choking is scary. Educate yourself about one in your family becoming a victim. decade, so do your part to prevent this one can be added to provide extra support choking hazards and take measures to Baby boy opens up kitchen cupboard from occurring. to older family members and others who keep your family safe. and pulls out various cleaning products Little girl is taking a bath, playing with a need additional help. Ways to minimize risks: from under the sink while his parents are toy watering-pot. 2. Fires Inspect Toys distracted. Ways to minimize risks: Regularly inspect toys for any loose parts. Ways to minimize risks: Put Away Buckets In 2015, there were more than 365,000 Scour floors for small toys or items where Store Medications Properly If you use buckets for cleaning, keep them fires in US homes, causing everything little hands might easily find them. Both over-the-counter and prescription empty and away from water sources. from mild smoke damage to total devasta- Keep Dangers Out of Reach medications need to be kept away from Attend to Bathing Children tion, including loss of life. Even candles Be sure to keep small, hard foods like nuts children and teens. Dispose of all unused It only takes a few inches of water for a or an unattended iron could lead to an or candies out of reach of children. Pay medications and never leave them out on a child or infant to drown, so never leave accidental fire in your home, but there is a special attention at adult gatherings where counter. Solutions like the locking EVER- a child unattended in the bathtub, and lot you can do to prevent a fire from get- children can more easily sneak something TOP Medicine Cabinet are a convenient always close the toilet lid. ting out of hand. unnoticed. way to keep medications handy without A smoke detector installed at a ceiling Monitor Playtime making them vulnerable to accidental 9. Burns with smoke. Small depth of field. Even if your child is no longer an infant, a discovery. Burns may not seem like a common Ways to minimize risks: baby monitor can still come in handy. Use Keep Paint Out of Reach household hazard, but they can be caused Install Fire Alarms this gadget to listen in for signs of chok- Even paint that isn’t lead based needs to by both dishwashers and stoves. These Install fire alarms on all levels of your ing when children are playing in another be properly stored and kept out of reach convenient appliances pose risks, espe- home, and check and change the batteries room. of children. Never put paint in a container cially to small children. Thankfully, there at least annually. Consider investing in a Cut Up Food other than the one it came in, otherwise are a few ways you can help ensure no one smart smoke detector like Nest Protect. For children under the age of four, always your child may mistake it for a drink or in your family is burned. This alarm uses Wi-Fi to provide real-time cut up hard foods that can block airways. other item. Ways to minimize risks: updates and remote monitoring right on The same applies to softer foods like Make Sure Chemicals Are Secure Latch the Dishwasher your smartphone or other mobile device. grapes, cherry tomatoes, and hot dogs. The Protect both children and pets from ac- Make sure your dishwasher is securely OXO Tot Grape Cutter is a handy tool that cidental poisoning by cleaning supplies. latched at all times and can’t be opened by Monitor Candles makes safe snacking easy for you and your Keep all household cleaners in a high curious fingers, particularly at the end of Never leave candles unattended or near toddler. cupboard with a safety lock to keep kids a cycle when burns from steam are most loose cloth like drapes or blankets. Also, and animals from accidentally finding likely to occur. Add the Safety 1st Appli- 5. Cuts them. Lock up pesticides and items like make sure they are out of reach of children This one seems like a no-brainer, but un- ance Lock as an extra measure to keep and that pets can’t knock them over. turpentine in a cupboard or lockbox in the the dishwasher from accidentally being fortunately there are a number of common garage or shed. items with sharp edges that are used inside opened. Unplug Appliances Put Away Personal Products and outside your home. Everything from Keep all makeup, hair products, soaps, and Avoid an electrical fire by making sure that an opened can to a garden hoe can present all appliances are in good working order other personal products out of the reach of danger. children and pets. Use safety latches on all December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 26 When a cough just won’t go away

Who has never had a cough? I bet no sal steroids. Undertreated allergies can where cumulative lung damage pre- conditions caused by nerve dysfunc- one can raise their hand. We see this in lead to chronic sinus infection, which vents the body’s normal ability to tion. clinic all the time. But chronic cough— causes cough by postnasal drip, so we clear particles, the airways swell and New evidence suggests that postna- one that lasts at least eight weeks — can may want to treat for this as well. make excessive mucus, and eventually sal drip, acid reflux, or even forceful be hard for patients to deal with and Could she have “cough variant” asthma areas die off and leave “dead space.” coughing in and of itself can aggravate difficult for doctors to figure out. that causes a cough but no wheezing? In a smoker, other symptoms with the nerve endings in the “cough centers” In the October 20, 2016 issue of the Many of my patients would rather not cough may raise concern about a lung of the airways. These aggravated nerve New England Journal of Medicine, wait for an appointment with a lung infection or even cancer. endings then overreact to many other lung experts describe a step-by-step specialist and undergo fancy tests. So, Does she have other health risks or triggers, such as smoke, perfume, or approach doctors can use to help treat if we suspect cough-variant asthma, conditions? If she has been incarcer- temperature changes, causing an over- patients with chronic cough. Most of- we simply begin inhalers. A few weeks ated or in a shelter, or perhaps is from a whelming urge to cough. They label ten a prolonged cough is due to one of of inhaled albuterol to help open the resource-poor country, we consider tu- this condition “neuronal hyper-respon- the “usual suspects.” But when it’s not, airways and a steroid inhaler to quell berculosis (TB). If she has a weakened siveness syndrome” and outline several we have a long list of increasingly rarer inflammation may both make the diag- immune system as well, due to HIV or approaches to treatment. conditions that we should run through nosis and treat the problem. long-term use of corticosteroids, TB But wait, there’s more. Other research- and rule out. If it isn’t due to any of Is she suffering from heartburn symp- and a host of other unusual organisms ers describe a similar concept at the those, experts now recognize that the toms? Acid reflux can also trigger are on the list. level of the larynx, a family of disor- culprit may be overactive nerves that cough, and if someone describes Are we stumped? Rare conditions to ders under “laryngeal dysfunction cause an exaggerated cough response to heartburn symptoms, or even if we are consider include pulmonary fibrosis, syndrome” that can include “laryngeal certain triggers. not sure what is causing the cough, we sarcoidosis, autoimmune diseases, and hyper-responsiveness.” Many of the The “usual suspects” that may be be- often prescribe eight weeks of an acid- anatomical abnormalities. Additional treatments they describe are similar to hind a chronic cough lowering medication. workup should include pulmonary and the treatments for “neuronal hyper-re- The authors describe a typical patient Is she taking a medication for which ENT evaluations. sponsiveness,” and the most promising with chronic cough, and she is very coughing is a side effect? Lisinopril or Beyond the usual — and even the “un- include the anticonvulsants gabapentin similar to many of my patients. She’s a another blood pressure medication usual” — suspects and pregabalin, the antidepressant ami- middle-aged lady with a cough lasting from the class called ACE inhibitors But what do we do for patients who triptyline, speech therapy, or a combi- many months. Of course, first we want can cause cough in 20% of patients. A either do not respond to treatments for nation of these. to ask a whole lot of questions. trial period off this medication may be their common conditions, or for whom Basically, medical experts are describ- Has she had chronic allergy symptoms warranted. extensive evaluation rules out the less ing a new cause of chronic cough based such as itchy, watery eyes and nose, Is she among the 17% of Americans common causes of a chronic cough? on aggravated nerves and airway dys- stuffy nose, and postnasal drip? If so, who smoke cigarettes? If so, her cough Well, researchers are now describing function, and more research will result it’s worth trying antihistamines and na- may be due to chronic bronchitis, a new family of breathing and cough in better treatments.

4 ways to boost your energy naturally with breakfast Healthful protein, slowly digested carbo- What’s a good breakfast? One that deliv- steel-cut oatmeal are typically the healthi- in nuts or salmon. Limit processed meats hydrates, fruit or vegetables serve up best ers some healthful protein, some slowly est bets. To choose the healthiest breakfast to the occasional treat as these foods are morning mix digested carbohydrates, and some fruit or cereal, read the label and look for: associated with a higher risk of colorectal vegetables. A vegetable omelet with a slice 5 grams or more of fiber per serving cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. As you sleep, your body is hard at work of whole-grain toast qualifies, as does a less than 300 milligrams of sodium Eat in, not out. You can enjoy a healthful digesting yesterday’s dinner. By the time bowl of high-fiber cereal topped with fresh per serving breakfast out if you stick to oatmeal. But you wake up, your body and brain are de- fruit and reduced-fat or soy milk, along less than 5 grams of sugar per serving much of the traditional fare will start your manding fresh fuel. “Breaking the fast” is a with a handful of almonds or walnuts. whole grain as the first item on the day with loads of refined carbohydrates key way to power up in the morning. Do it ingredient list and saturated fat. Like most processed right and the benefits can last all day. Try these 4 tips for creating your own Include protein. Yogurt is a good choice; food, the breakfast offerings from fast- energy-boosting breakfast: Greek yogurt has more protein than food chains tend to be high-sodium, low- If you miss the day’s first meal, notes Dr. regular yogurt. Eggs (up to one a day) are fiber disasters. David S. Ludwig, a nutrition expert at Choose whole grains. High-fiber, okay for healthy people. Although yolks Blend up a breakfast smoothie. Com- Harvard-affiliated Children’s Hospital whole-grain cereals and breads can help are high in cholesterol, eggs have proteins, bine fruit, juice, yogurt, wheat germ, tofu, Boston, you may start off with an energy keep your blood sugar on an even keel vitamins, and other nutrients and don’t and other ingredients. Toss them in your deficit and have to tap into your energy and avoid a midmorning energy crash. appear to increase the risk for develop- blender with a bit of ice and you have a reserves. With the hundreds of types of cereal on ing heart disease.You might also include refreshing, high energy breakfast. the market, bran cereal, bran flakes, and foods that have healthful fats such as those How stretching keeps your joints moving

Your range of motion — how far you can the bones can move. movements of the knee. Among other move a joint in various directions — is de- Stretching exercises can help extend your things, the ACL keeps the knee joint from termined by many things, starting with the range of motion. To understand how, it Tendons are flexible cords of strong tis- rotating too far. inner workings of the joints involved. Also helps to know what joints, tendons, and sue that connect muscles to bones. important is the amount of tension in the ligaments do: When you stretch, you’re working muscles muscles surrounding the joint, which can Ligaments are tough, fibrous bands of and tendons rather than ligaments. Liga- be affected by scarring or your habitual Joints are the junctions that link bones tissue that bind bone to bone, or bone ments are not supposed to be elastic. An posture (passive factors), or by involun- together. The architecture of each joint to cartilage, at a joint. An example is the overly stretchy ligament wouldn’t provide tary muscle spasms or purposeful muscle — that is, whether its structure is a hinge, anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), one of the stability and support needed for a safe contractions (active factors). pivot, or ball-in-socket — determines how five ligaments that together control the range of movement. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 27 Muslims Don’t Hate American Values,

But Some Americans Do -Kamran Pasha Huffington Post

In the new world we live in, we are seeing For anyone who asks “Yeah right, what and found them to be people that were not stance toward the Muslim world, neither a steady increase of hate crimes against has America ever done to you?” I would barbarians, but a highly advanced, ethical of these worldviews reflect American val- Muslims in the United States. Even more respond with just a few examples that have culture. And that their leader, Saladin, ues, nor the heart of the American people. troubling, I have seen an increasing made perhaps a few Muslims unhappy: was not a tyrant, but a humble and moral Yet they are the ideologies that guide our number of people justify these crimes by (1) The overthrow of the democratic man whose sense of honor exceeded the ruling class into a war of civilizations that claiming that “Muslims hate America for government of Iran by the CIA and the Crusaders own ideals. That even as the nobody wants, except for those who profit its values” and that we are simply getting imposition of the Shah and his brutal Crusaders massacred “infidel” civilians from it. a retribution that is long overdue. This secret police; under Richard the Lionheart, Saladin And now, with the most recent election, mindset appears to be very much shared (2) Supporting Israel unconditionally treated Jews and Christians as welcome we are being introduced to a new ideol- by members of the President Elect’s inner while millions of poor and powerless brothers in the Holy Land. The encounter ogy that is being offered to the American circle, including incoming National Secu- Palestinians have languished in refugee with the truth of their enemies’ values, and people to further undermine their values rity Advisor, General Michael Flynn, who camps and endured military rule for over the realization that they were being lied — Neo-Chauvinism. If the Trump Admin- has called Islam “a cancer.” 68 years; to and manipulated by their own leaders, istration implements its rhetoric of ban- As a Muslim who loves the United States, (3) The overthrow of Iraq, which killed 2 demoralized many Crusaders and helped ning Muslims from the country or creating who has been an American since I was million civilians and destabilized the en- unravel their military ambitions. a “registry” of innocent people based on three years old, and who believes the US tire Middle East, leading to the rise of ISIS; Just as the Crusaders were lied into a clash their religious faith, Islam will nonetheless remains the best place to live on Earth, let (4) The US support for extremists among of civilizations by their leaders, so have survive and continue to grow. But it will be me say a few things. rebel groups in Syria who add further many Americans been lied to by their America that will not survive, the America First, most Muslims love America and misery to the Syrian people by beheading politicians on both the right and the left. that Muslims and people all over the world Americans. We find the United States to children and murdering religious minori- The powers that truly control both Re- love. A day will come when Americans be a place that provides freedom and op- ties; publican and Democratic administrations themselves will no longer speak of “Ameri- portunities that are remarkable, and sadly (5) Supporting the overthrow of Libya and (the military-industrial complex and Wall can values” without shame and embarrass- often lacking in much of the so-called leaving the country to devolve into a bleak, Street) have worked very hard to keep ment. And when the average American Muslim world today. And Americans are Mad Max landscape of chaos; Americans unaware of the true cost of loses faith in what makes the United States generally seen by Muslims worldwide as (6) Supporting the Saudi regime, whose aggressive military polices in the Middle so great, the experiment that our Founders kindhearted people who have strong faith, twisted fundamentalist ideology has East. Both parties have destabilized the started will come to a tragic end. work hard and accept newcomers into spread chaos through the Muslim world, Muslim world to keep their backers happy, I do not believe that will ultimately hap- their communities with welcoming arms. corrupting Islam from within and giving and each presents an excuse for the same pen. Because I love America and have faith It is American values that make Muslims birth to groups such as ISIS and Al-Qaeda. actions under the veil of one of two op- in the inherent goodness of the American love Americans. In my experience, Americans are good posing ideologies. Neo-Conservatism for people. But it is a faith that I know will be But American values have rarely been people who are largely unaware of the the Republicans (“We must attack and tested in the years to come. And I, like my shown by American foreign policy toward horrors that have been done to the Muslim destabilize the Muslim world to promote fellow Muslims and all people of goodwill, the Muslim world. There are indeed some community in their name, and if they were American hegemony and security”) or have no choice but to step forward and Muslims who are angry at the United aware would not support such actions. Neo-Liberalism for the Democrats (“We trust what the Qur’an promises - that God States, and not because of its ideals, but In my novel on the Crusades, “Shadow must attack and destabilize the Muslim will guide the faithful from darkness into because it has historically rejected its own of the Swords,” I show how the Crusad- world to promote democracy and human light. ideals when dealing with Muslim coun- ers were shocked when they actually rights”). To the millions whose lives have tries through its foreign policy. encountered Muslims in the Holy Land been destroyed by America’s aggressive Turkey’s president slams those who call Trump ‘dictator’

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdo- in Turkey and perceptions gan asserted on Wednesday that many that the U.S. is reluctant to in the U.S. and Europe are branding U.S. extradite a Muslim cleric President-elect Donald Trump a “dictator” who is accused of master- because he wasn’t their favored candi- minding a failed coup in date. Erdogan called on them to respect July. democracy. Erdogan spoke with Trump Addressing a meeting of the Organiza- soon after his election and tion for Islamic Cooperation in Istanbul, has said he hopes his tri- Erdogan also accused Western nations of umph would be an “auspi- calling any leader that did not serve their cious” development. interests a despot. In the televised speech, “The West will continue to welcome ty- Erdogan said anti-Trump rants who have blood on their hands with protesters in Western nations red carpets and label anyone who criticizes had no respect for democ- them as a dictator,” said Erdogan who is racy or the result of the U.S. frequently criticized for his increasingly election. autocratic style of governing. “In America they started “Are they calling someone a dictator? Then calling Trump a dictator. In you should think the opposite. That person various countries of Europe is good, because (he or she) goes against they spilled into the streets their interests,” Erdogan said. and started saying ‘dicta- Muslims, saying the president-elect would Turkey’s relations with President Barack tor,’” said Erdogan. “I thought you were “correct” them once in office. Obama’s administration have been tense. democrats? Why aren’t you respecting the “We are used to such things in politics,” Ankara has strongly objected to Wash- results of the ballot box?” Erdogan said. “They speak that way today ington’s support fir Syrian Kurdish militia Erdogan added that he was not concerned and then they’ll correct that wrong,” he who are linked to outlawed Kurdish rebels about Trump’s comments on Islam or said. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 28 Trump sinks Asia trade pact, opening the way for China to lead TOKYO/SYDNEY (Reuters) - An ambi- and trade. the United States,” even as parliament environmental standards as TPP would. tious Asia-Pacific trade pact linking the Trump has pledged to redraw trade deals continued debating ratification and his The RCEP was a focus of attention at the United States and 11 countries lay in tat- to win back American jobs, and has government vowed to lobby other mem- Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation sum- ters on Tuesday after U.S. President-elect threatened Mexico and China with puni- bers to approve it. mit in Peru over the weekend. Donald Trump said he would kill the deal tive tariffs in a move that some economists “It (the pact) just continues in a state of Tan Jian, a senior member of China’s del- on his first day in office on Jan. 20. have warned could spark a trade war that not being in effect,” said Shinpei Sasaki of egation at the summit, said more countries Trump’s statement appeared to open the threatens to roll back decades of liberaliza- the Cabinet Office’s TPP headquarters. are now seeking to join its 16-member way for China to assume the United States’ tion. Australian Trade Minister Steven Ciobo bloc, including Peru and Chile, and cur- leadership mantle on trade and diplomacy Ending the TPP was a key election pledge told reporters in Canberra that countries rent members want to reach a deal as soon in Asia. The Republican termed the Trans of Trump’s and was also the policy of his could push ahead with the TPP without as possible to counter rising protectionism. Pacific Partnership (TPP) “a potential Democratic opponent, Hillary Clinton. the United States by amending the agree- China’s foreign ministry said on Tuesday disaster for our country.” The deal died in Congress after Trump’s ment and possibly adding new members. that Beijing has an “open attitude” toward China, Japan and South Korea are already Nov. 8 election victory. “We could look at, for example, if China any arrangements that promote free trade in the initial stages of discussing a trilater- The Trans Pacific Partnership, a signature or Indonesia or another country wanted in the region as long they don’t become al trade deal, and Beijing has been pushing diplomatic initiative of Democratic Presi- to join, saying, ‘Yes, we open the door for “fragmented and politicized.” its own limited Asian regional trade pact dent Barack Obama, was intended to lower them signing up to the agreement as well.’” Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang that excludes Washington for the past five tariff barriers in countries that accounted But Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien said the RCEP was an initiative led by years. for 40 percent of the world economy, as Loong said reopening negotiations would the 10-member Association of Southeast Japan and Australia, Washington’s clos- well as providing a bulwark against China. not be easy. “If you sign a fresh agree- Asian Nations (ASEAN), which China has est allies in Asia, pledged after Trump’s A major trade deal between the United ment, you have to go through it again. We been promoting. “We are willing to keep announcement to push ahead without the States and Europe is also now close to col- haven’t crossed that bridge yet. We’ll cross pushing the (RCEP) talks process with United States, although removing the larg- lapse after Britain’s plans to withdraw from it if and when we come to that.” all sides to achieve positive progress at an est market for goods and services would the European Union prompted Washing- early date,” he said. shrink it dramatically. ton to demand better terms and opposi- CHINA’S RIVAL PACT Vietnam last week shelved its own rati- “Pushing them forward is the idea that, tion in France and Germany has also all China has pushed its own Regional Com- fication of TPP, after Obama abandoned if they don’t act, it will look like China’s but scuppered it. prehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), efforts to push it through a lame-duck very weak trade deals are the only game which notably excludes the United States. Congress, while Malaysia has shifted its in town,” said Derek Scissors, a resident TPP LIGHT? It is a more traditional trade agreement, attention to the RCEP. scholar at the American Enterprise Insti- Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said involving cutting tariffs rather than open- tute, where he focuses on Asian economies “the TPP would be meaningless without ing up economies and setting labor and Fatah will give Abbas an honourable exit Defying strong pressure from regional and international rhage that has taken place within the players, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas is poised Palestinian leadership and will allow to hold the seventh congress in Ramallah of the move- for the ushering in of a new generation ment that he, along with Yasser Arafat and other now- of leaders. Abbas has consciously re- aging leaders, launched more than 50 years ago. fused to name a successor preferring to Seven years after the sixth Fatah congress was held in see what comes out of the democratic Bethlehem in 2009, an improvement on the 20-year delay process of the movement. between the fifth and sixth congress, the new congress READ MORE: Killing Arafat - ‘Does will include nearly three quarters of its delegates from Abbas have any evidence?’ inside the occupied territories and a little more than one After the congress, Abbas will be able quarter from the diaspora. to deal more seriously with Hamas in This, along with the absence of Mohammad Dahlan and the reconciliation efforts and hopefully his supporters, is perhaps the most prominent feature of will be able to convene the Palestine the congress due to take place Tuesday. The date for the National Council with the participation congress, to be held in Abbas’ Al-Muqataa headquarters, of Hamas, thus revitalising the PLO as November 29, is the international day for solidarity with the leader of the Palestinian liberation independence will now enable it to move forward. the Palestinian people. Abu Mazen (Abbas) was under struggle. It is not clear, however, how the congress will handle the tremendous pressure to reconcile with the renegade Gaza Politically, it is not clear if the congress will make any ma- issue of succession of Abbas. There is a decision to name leader Mohamed Dahlan by countries like Egypt and the jor breakthroughs in formulating its manifesto. According a deputy to the leader of the movement, but it is unclear United Arab Emirates (UAE). But, Abbas stuck to his to Ziad Khalil Abu Zayyad, the young Fatah spokesper- at this time whether there is consensus, or even a majority guns. son, the congress will discuss “Palestinian relations with for this move, unless Abbas is willing to spend his politi- After some delay and speculations over the list of dele- Israel, the role of the youth in the movement, the relation cal capital on one individual, and he has not shown that gates, last week invitations to some 1400 people were sent with some Arab countries, the assignment of a deputy for willingness until now. out. Many of the new delegates were chosen over the past Abu Mazen (Abbas) within Fatah and will evaluate how to Depending on who among the top Fatah leaders emerges two years in local primaries throughout the West Bank empower popular resistance.” as the strongest, it is possible that a collective leadership and Gaza strip, while others were chosen to represent While the term “popular resistance” was approved by the will be formed that can eventually take up the three major various unions, institutions, women activists and other sixth congress, the movement has not done much to flesh positions Abbas holds: head of Fatah, president of Pales- membership type organisations that normally have inter- out what it means and how to incorporate nonviolence tine and chairman of the PLO’s Executive Committee. nal elections. resistance within a national liberation strategy. Convening the seventh congress and successfully con- Concerns to be addressed Fatah activists have introduced the term “smart popu- cluding it will go a long way in sealing Abbas’ singular During the congress, Fatah will need to define its relation- lar resistance” possibly alluding to the idea of creating a rule over the movement and will allow him to chart ship with what has been called recently the Arab quartet: mass movement that doesn’t use any violence and is able the short-term goals of the movement. But all delegates UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan. Recent reports to survive the constant Israeli repression of any kind of understand that this will be Abbas’ last congress, and in Israeli media have suggested that the Arab quartet were Palestinian opposition to its occupation and settlement therefore support him to ensure the success of an honour- pushing for Arafat’s nephew and former PLO representa- activities. able succession process. tive to the UN, Nasser al-Qudwa to replace Abbas. The The issue of succession Daoud Kuttab, an award-winning Palestinian journalist, suggestion was rejected by Palestinian leaders as Arab The list of Fatah congress delegates makes it clear that the is a former Ferris professor of journalism at Princeton meddling in Palestinian affairs and has not resurfaced Abbas has regained total control over Fatah and has suc- University. since. ceeded in purging Dahlan and his supporters. The move- The views expressed in this article are the author’s own A successful seventh congress will help stop the haemor- ment might be slightly weaker as a result, but its unity and and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeera’s editorial policy. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 29 Ladies Celebrate 3rd Anniversary of Founding of Ladies Chapter in PWC By: Engr. Madiha Noman Every organization is built by the capabil- Madiha mentioned. ity of its people to get itself recognized in Almas Mumtaz – a senior member and all parts of the world. Pakistan Writers currently PRO of PWC-LC - termed her Farah Ehsan the Club (aka: PWC) is one such organiza- experience as a member to be that of incumbent Convener tion which is not only recognized in the honor and privilege. “I enjoyed each and expressed happiness Kingdom of Saudi Arabia but it’s talented every moment with PWC-LC, learnt a lot on the third anni- people have also made their mark in other and made new friends”, Almas mentioned. versary of PWC LC. parts of the World. PWC which evolved Almas described Ladies chapter as a tribe “I remember that almost 25 years back not only shares the of successful women who empower each memorable day – 15 glorious memories but also has a feather other. November-2013 – in its cap by founding it’s Ladies Chapter when the then Presi- aka: PWC-LC. Ambreen Faiz – a founding member - ap- dent of PWC Faiz preciated all ladies for doing wonderful Al-Najdi had founded Down the memory lane three years back work to bring about good name of ladies. a Ladies Chapter of Faiz Al Najdi – the then President of “PWC-LC has provided me an opportuni- PWC”, Farah men- PWC - came up with the idea of and laid ty to hone my skills of public speaking and tioned. She also added foundations of a Ladies Chapter in PWC I remain very hopeful that PWC-LC shall today PWC-LC was male members who nurtured PWC-LC in on 15th November-2013. There were seven grow in future”, Ambreen opinionated. like a bouquet of several beautiful flowers, a very founding mothers namely, Dr. Wardah as the team comprises of a host of talented conducive manner”, Qundeel added. (Convener), Dr. Erum (Deputy Conve- Asma Tariq – currently advisor to Conve- ladies from all fields of expertise. ner), Farah (Finance Secretary), Qundeel ner – said it was an honor and privilege for Shaheen Javed one of the founding mem- as Public Relations Officer – aka: PRO, her to be a founding member of PWC-LC. Madiha Malik the incumbent Deputy bers of PWC-LC said that PWC-LC was in Asma Tariq, Ambreen Faiz and Shaheen “I have enjoyed each and every event in Convener expressed her two years journey fact a group of lovely, beautiful, talented, Javed. the past 3 years of beautiful journey and as an amazing one and full of excitement. successful, passionate and adorable ladies. I wish all success for PWC-LC”, Asma “During these past two years, I have met “I find myself to be very lucky among this Ever since its founding, PWC-LC has added. with some wonderful ladies and made group of lovely ladies”, Shaheen added served as a voice and platform for talented friends with them also. I found them very ladies of the Pakistani community in Engr. Madiha Noman the current Event talented and have drawn inspirations from Shumaila Malik – incumbent Finance Riyadh. PWC-LC has come of age and has Coordinator described her three years them all”, Madiha added. Secretary – said her journey of one year not looked back eversince. with PWC-LC as very rewarding “Women with Pakistan PWC-LC has been a unique are the building blocks of any society. Qandeel Aymen a founding member experience. “I believe when women with This past weekend members of PWC- PWC-LC has not only acknowledged that appreciated the former president Faiz Al their collective wisdom set out to do any- LC celebrated the 3rd anniversary of its but has provided a wonderful platform Najdi and Current president Abdul Rauf thing then they can do wonders”, Shumaila founding. The members expressed their to the Pakistani women of Riyadh to Mughal who took the initiative for provid- opinionated. She also expressed her hope joy and here is what they have to say about transform their dreams into reality. I feel ing a forum where ladies could manifest for a better and stronger PWC-LC in their journey in PWC-LC. honored to be associated with PWC-LC”, their talents and creativity. “I thank all future. Gulf PBD mooted by Indian Expats By-Mir Mohsin Ali Riyadh- Non Resident Indians (NRI’s) mon Indian workers in Saudi Arabia suf- Indian schools on various schemes in Riyadh have demanded the Indian fering a lot and man social workers and of Indian government like Digital government to recognize the contribution organizations with Indian Embassy are India, Swach Bharat, Namo Ganga and services of blue collar employees and helping them in all the possible ways. etc under the patronage of Indian dedicated social workers by conducting He also said that Kerala government has embassy. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) in Gulf started several schemes for the benefit Dr.Dilshad Ahamad, MC at IISR countries. of the gulf NRI’s like pension, similar suggested that the Indian business- So far only rich businessmen and entre- schemes should be initiated by the Indian man, entrepreneurs and profession- preneurs awarded by the Indian gov- government for all the Indian works in als like Engineers, Doctors, Teachers ernment a brain storming session was the gulf countries. etc who are serving since long time conducted by the Indian organizations at The number of Indians in Saudi Arabia is should be recognized. Niagara banquet hall and there initiated more than three million and they are the Dr.Mohammed Ahsraf Ali, Presi- the efforts to get recognization for com- largest Indian passport holding commu- dent, All India United Society said mon Indians in gulf countries who were nity outside India likewise there prob- that the Indian Embassy officials are neglected till now. lems and issue should get priority by the personally recognizing and appreciat- All the Indian organization will send Indian authorities. ing the good work of Individuals and memorandum to the Indian government Senior Journalist K.N.Wasif readout his organizations, recently Anil Nautiyal through Indian Embassy in this regard. article published in Siasat daily and ya- invited office bearers of AIUS for Mohammed Quaiser, President, Tanzeem hind.com he said that Indian government dinner and appreciated their services Hum Hindustani graced the occasion as took good initiative by conducting PBD during the recent crises faced by In- a chief guest said his organization made in all the Indian missions, but unfortu- dian workers of Bin Laden Company representation to then Deputy Chief of nately it was stopped this year. and Saudi OGER. He said such type Mission DCM Rajiv Shahare to recognize He said gulf PBD should be conducted of gesture and appreciation should be dedicated social workers and as a result every year one of the city in gulf coun- shown by the Indian government. Earlier Mohammed Rafeeq, Chairman, of this Indian government presented PBD tries and Indian workers and organiza- Shaji Mohammed said that every Indian Mumtaz group welcoming the audience award to Shihab Kottukad from Saudi tions should be recognized by the Indian in the Gulf country is like an ambassador said that the common workers are the Arabia in 2015. He also said that the time embassy. of India and everyone should try to at- backbone of the community they remit- slot of the issue related to the Indians Muneeb Pazhoor, Welfare Coordinator, tract Saudi nationals to India for medi- tance make an important role in Indian in gulf countries should be increased in Indian Social Forum, appreciated Indian cal tourism government of India should economy they should be recognized and PBD. Embassy for helping the Indians by ar- encourage the Indians in this regard. we initiated this to get them there long He advice the organizers to involve all the ranging timely departure of the Indians Shafi Sattar, Chairman, IISR, Mohammed due recognize. organizations in Riyadh and get the sug- facing several problems. Jabbar, Telangana NRI Forum, Ghulam Kaunain Shahidi conducts the proceed- gestion in the next meeting. Obaid ur Rahman, Chairman, Bihar Khan, representative from Rajasthan, Ni- ings and recite the verses of holy Quran Bala Chandran Nair, General Convener, foundation said that quiz competition yaz Ahamad. Ahsas, Sayeed Haroon also a large number of Indians attend this NRK welfare forum, said that the com- will be conducted for the students of spoke on this occasion. meeting. December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 30 Mohammed Mohsin won Gold Medal in Osmania University games

Mohd Mohsin won the gold medal in Osmania University games and is selected for All India university games which is going to held at Punjab Lovely University Mohsin is son of Mohd Khaja from Old city Hyderabad. He is a very hard worker and spends lot of time practicing boxing. For the last four year he is in training under his boxing coach Mr. Om- kar bath Yadav. At Lal Bahadur Stadium he is the unbeted Boxing champion of Telan- gana state and south India junior national silver medal. And in school national he is the recepient of two times bronze medal in under 17 and 19. He won the gold medal in Senior state level Boxing championship With Mohammed_Azhar_uddin by defending 4 Senior boxers of Telangana and got selected for Senior national boxing championship which is going toFormer indian cricket captain and former member of parliament and be held in Assam this December. Great acheivement Mohsin, way to go. his son Asad Mohammad Villagers want Khanapur named after Kavitha

Mohsin with Esa Misri, Ahmed Misri, Osman Misri and Sayed Misri

Out of affection for their MP, the villagers of Khanapur village. “This is the first time that I have learnt about vil- in Armoor of Nizamabad want to rename their village as lagers wanting to to rename their village,” the 2003-batch Kavithapur but there is one hitch. IAS officer said. The name cannot be changed just because the villagers A district-level official said unless the name change is have taken a decision to do it. It will have to be approved given in the gazette, it cannot be deemed to have been by the Union ministry of home affairs. From December 4, changed. According to procedures laid down by the union the villagers decided they would call it Kavithapur. mini stry of home affairs, a proposal to rename a city, Chief minister K Chandrasekhar Rao’s daughter Kalva town, village or even railway stations has to be sent to the Kuntla Kavitha who represents Nizamabad parliamentary ministry.The state government will have to submit the constituency heard their grievances and reportedly as- proposal. The villagers cannot do it directly. sured them that two-bedroom houses would be con- It is only after the centre accords approval, that the state structed for them. To show their gratitude for her, they government can give a gazette notification about the Congratulations to decided to name their village after her. name change. Every year, they receive proposals from Sameer Uddin Sabiri on the While villagers are gungho about their decision, district different state governments giving the old name and the birth of his son Saquib uddin officials say they have no knowledge about this directly proposed new name. However, the approval is not granted Sabiri from the villagers. Asked if the villagers could rename a in all cases. village by themselves, district collector Yogita Rana said she had to find out the procedure involved in renaming a December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 31 HINDI MOVIE RELEASE DATES

Dear Zindagi - movie Review Kaira (Alia) is an astute cinematographer who is bohe- before intermission when SRK, without his mian in her approach to life. Enter Dr Jehangir Khan trademark outstretched arms, makes an ap- (Shah Rukh), a top-notch therapist, who helps her lay her pearance. innermost demons to rest. As said earlier, the protagonist played by DEAR ZINDAGI REVIEW: In a scene from the film, Alia flits like a butterfly from Raghuvendra Alia who is heartbroken, bites into a green chilli. As her (Kunal) to Sid (Angad) and later to Rumi eyes cloud over, she looks at her best buddy Fatima (Ira (Ali). And there is a backstory to show why Dubey) and says -- “the chilli is pungent.’’ Tears, silly fears she is so messed up. Honestly, her angst bites and frailties all part of the life process. So brave it we to some degree but not entirely. must. This kind of sums up the life lesson writer-director Gauri Shinde’s second directorial film imparts. To analyse why she is the way she is, Alia makes an appointment with SRK a DD But unlike her first film English Vinglish that hit the (dimaag ka doctor) in Goa. It is on his couch bullseye subtly, here the message is hammered. Of course that she is able to voice her fears. As he some of the writing has merit. There are funny and meticulously picks up the pieces of her past clever one-liners. There are numerous analogies drawn and ‘pieces’ her together, the film allows the to explain the innumerable relationships one encounters viewer too to confront some of their own in today’s fast-fleeting urban life. Some of this makes anxieties. So it isn’t all in vain. in his sober-avatar possessing infinite gyaan tempts you you chuckle, some of it makes you cry. So far so good. to seek out a therapist. If you’re in the mood to do some However, the first half of the film meanders, making you Feisty Alia, one of the better actors of the current genera- soul-searching this weekend, this film could do it for you. restless. Frankly, things actually begin to look up just tion, turns in a nicely nuanced performance. And SRK December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 32 Search Mountain Names

MountEverest Manaslu Kangchenjunga NangaParbat Lhotse Annapurna Makalu Gasherbrum ChoOyu BroadPeak Dhaulagiri Shishapangma December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 33 Shayer Janab Rashed Azar December 2016 www.Asia Times.US PAGE 34 On the lighter side.... At a meeting, the corporate manager told a joke. Everyone When I went back to the medical lab to have some blood on the team laughed except one guy. drawn, I was greeted with a battery of questions from the technician. The manager asked him, “Didn’t you understand my joke?” “Has your address changed?” she asked. We have enough people who tell it like it is. Now we could use a few who can tell it like it can be.” The guy replied, “No,” I answered. “Oh I understood it, but I resigned yesterday.” ______“Your phone number?”

There are three kinds of men in this world... “No.” Some remain single and make wonders happen. Some have girlfriends and see wonders happen. The next day, the doctor, still feeling a bit reserved about “What about your birthday?” what he had just finished doing, opened his mailbox to ______The rest get married and wonder what happened??? send out the bills. Much to his surprise, there sat a bill My three-year-old daughter stuck out her hand and said, ______from the lawyer. “Look at the fly I killed, Mommy.” My husband was trying to embarrass me at a party by car- ______rying on about all the stuff women carry in their purses. Carlos told his wife he wanted a guitar to play while sit- Since she was eating a juicy pickle at the time, I thrust her ting in the Jacuzzi. contaminated hands under the faucet and washed them Instead of blushing I said, “You’re right. There IS too with antibacterial soap. After sitting her down to finish much stuff in my purse.” So, I removed his wallet, ciga- The next day she bought him an electric guitar. her pickle, I asked, with a touch of awe, “How did you kill rettes, lighter, and car keys and handed them to him. ______that fly all by yourself?” __ When he asked what he was supposed to do with them, I Having lost most of his hearing a number of years ago, Between bites, she said, “I hit it with my pickle.” smile and said, “Get your own purse!” this elderly man goes to the doctor to be fitted with hear- ______ing aids which promise to allow him to hear 100%. Growing up, I was really jealous of my best friend. His I went to see my doctor this morning. “Some one decided grandmother lived in a two story house which he went to graffiti my house last night!” I raged. A month later, he returns to the doctor for a check up over to visit quite often. So why are you telling me?” the doctor asked. on his progress. The doctor tells him that his hearing is perfect and asks if his family is pleased. My grandmother lived in a one story house. “I can’t understand the writing,” I replied. “Was it you?” At a party of professionals, a doctor was having difficulty The man says, “Oh, I haven’t told them about the hear- The only story I ever heard was “The Little Engine That socializing. Everyone wanted to describe their symptoms ing aids yet. I just sit around and listen to them talk. I’ve Could”, OVER AND OVER AGAIN! and get an opinion about diagnosis. The doctor turned changed my will three times!” ______to a lawyer acquaintance and asked, “How do you handle Why did the germ cross the microscope? people who want advice outside of the office?” ______If you come home like I do and find your cat had his tail To get to the other slide. “Simple,” answered the lawyer, “I send them a bill. That removed from fighting, just take your cat to Walmart... stops it.” They’re the best re-tailer!