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GOPIO NEWS

October 1, 2018

A Publication of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO)

Issue: XVI-7 October 1, 2018
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In This Issue
GOPIO TO ORGANIZE ITS CONVENTION ON JAN. 19TH AND 20TH IN VARANASI - U.P. CHIEF MINISTER YOGI ADITYANATH
MEA AND UP GOVT. GETTING READY TO HOST PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS 2019
GOPIO CHAPTERS CELEBRATE INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY.
GOPIO BERLIN HOSTS RAUL GANDHI, MP.
GOPIO INTERNATIONAL AND CHAPTER NEWS
NRIs/PIOs ACHIEVE
ARTICLE HEADLINE
NRIs AND PIOs NEWS FEATURES
NEWS OF INTEREST TO NRIs and PIOs
GOPIO LIFE MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTER FORMATION
EDITORIAL BOARD
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GOPIO is a community supported non-profit organization taking up issues of the Indian Diaspora and attempting to unifying the community in its common causes. Support GOPIO by becoming a Life Member or chapter member. Once can become Life Member online by visiting http://www.gopio.net/online_membership.html.

GOPIO TO ORGANIZE ITS CONVENTION ON JAN. 19TH AND 20TH IN VARANASI - U.P. CHIEF MINISTER YOGI ADITYANATH TO INAUGURATE THE CONVENTION

GOPIO will have its General Body Meeting and Convention Inauguration on January 19th and a full day conference on Jan. 20th. More details will follow in the coming issues of GOPIO News.
 
GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal and GOPIO's Liaison with Govt. of India Sunil Rawla visited Varanasi and Lucknow and met government officials. UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has accepted GOPIO's invitation to join the finale banquet on January 20th.
 
Kulathakal and Rawla met Mr. Deepak Agarwal, Commissioner for industries in Varanasi. Later they visited the various hotels to decide a venue for GOPIO Convention.

GOPIO Officials with UP Chief Minister ogi Adityanath and other officials
Photos: Left - GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal with UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath; Top Right - Kulathakal, Suni Rawla and Navin Kapoor in Varanasi and Bottom right - Suni Rawla, Varanasi Commissioner Deepak Agarwal and Sunny Kulathakal
 
More information on the upcoming GOPIO Convention will be provided in the next issues.
 
Contact: Convention Chairman and GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal at  kulathakal44@gmail.com , Tel: in Bahrain + 973 39441956; in India +91 9845756692
MEA AND UP GOVT. GETTING READY TO HOST PRAVASI BHARATIYA DIVAS 2019
PBD2017), JAN 7-9, 2017
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will organize the 15th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) from January 21-23, 2019 in Varanasi, UP, India. Speaking at the launch of the official website for the event here, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said that in addition to attending the three-day PBD in Varanasi, the participants will also be taken to Allahabad where the Kumbh Mela will be going on, and then brought to New Delhi for the Republic Day celebrations.
 
It will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 22nd. The President of India Ram Nath Kovind will deliver the valedictory address on January 23rd and also confer the Pravasi Bhartiya Samman Awards. The pre-conference seminars will also be organized on January 21st followed by plenary and panel sessions beginning on January 22nd.    
 
PBD has become a significant forum to connect the overseas Indians from all over the world and the PBD-2019 will be focusing on more connectivity with overseas Indians with a theme " Role of Indian Diaspora in building a New India ."
 
Prime Minister of Mauritius Pravind Kumar Jugnauth will be the Chief Guest of the Convention. Member of Parliament of Norway Himanshu Gulati will be the Special Guest and Member of Parliament of New Zealand Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi will be the Guest of Honor at the Youth Pravasi Bharatiya Divas.
 
Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention a flagship event of the Indian Government, provides an important platform to engage and connect with the overseas Diaspora.
 
To register, visit: https://pbdindia.gov.in/en
 GOPIO CHAPTERS CELEBRATE INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
 
GOPIO QUEENSLAND HOLDS ICONIC INDIA DAY FAIR 2018
 
GOPIO QLD Chapter held its iconic India Day Fair in the world-renowned Roma Street Parklands (the largest subtropical gardens in a city in the world).This renowned fair has grown in size and attracts attendance by all communities and its intention is to bring together people from different communities together while showcasing Indian Culture and cuisine. It gives many Indian community organizations the opportunity to take part in the India Day fair by participating in the community parade and performances.
 
Invited guests are treated to a VIP reception and they too join in the parade, which finishes in front the impressive amphitheater stage.
 
With beautiful weather holding out, the event was attended by over 10,000 people. The celebration included lighting of the lamp by Hon. Grace Grace MP; the Labor Member representing McConnel who is also Minister for Education and Industrial Relations; and the member of the Legislative Assembly of Queensland for Chatsworth, Mr Minnikin.
 
The flags were raised by the Brisbane City's Lord Mayor Mr Graham Quirk and the Commissioner of the Police, Mr Ian Stewart followed by the national anthems of the both Australia and India. Late Mr Atal Bihari Bajpayee's contributions to India were acknowledged by the High Commissioner of India, Dr Ajay Gondane, and a one minute's silence was also observed.
 
Inaugurating India Day Fair 2018 in Brisbane with lighting of the Diya
Photo: Inaugurating India Day Fair 2018 with l ighting of the Diya by Minnikin MP opposition, Grace Grace MP, Elder Aunty Betty,   Swamiji, Consul of India Mrs. Archana Singh, Umesh Chandra.

This event has been held each year for the past seven years and the public attendance has grown steadily since then. It is a free public event in a true festival atmosphere, with stage performances, food stalls and other activities drawing large crowds.
 
The stage performances included show casing of costumes and dances from different States of India, a children's parade of Nation showcased Heroes of India with patriotic songs. Dances from many regions of India were on show, such as Bhangra, Garba, Giddah, Lavni, Tollywood, Bollywood, Kathak, and Haryanvi to name a few.
 
The evening performance was the show stopper, a free live concert by Pradeep Sran (from cutie pie fame) a singer from India and open-air dancing by the attendees. The day concluded with a beautiful fireworks display - a perfect end to a perfect day.
 
The program was coordinated by GOPIO Queensland President Vinita Khushal and organized by GOPIO Qld committee.

Audience and Dancers at India Day Festival 2018  
Photo left: Left- Audience at the festival and Right - Folk dancers getting to perform

Contact: Vinita Khushal, President, GOPIO Queensland Inc., P. O. Box 5419, West End, Qld 4101, Australia, Tel: +61  07 3387 7715, Email: president@gopioqueensland.org, Website www.gopioqueensland.org
 
GOPIO-CT JOINS HANDS WITH STAMFORD CITY GOVT. TO CELEBRATE INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
 
Indians everywhere commemorate the country's independence from British rule, a long, non-violent struggle headed by Mahatma Gandhi, on August 15th. In Stamford, CT, Mayor David Martin hosted the 72nd Indian Independence celebration at the Stamford Government Center. The Connecticut Chapter of the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO-CT) organized the event on Sunday, August 12th.  Indian Consul Jaideep Chola, who is also the Head of Chancery, was the chief guest who delivered the Independence Day message emphasizing the importance of India's independence and its adoption of democracy.
 
"While your adopted land is the oldest and most powerful democracy in the world, India too has the distinction of having the largest democracy with diversities like religion, caste, creed, region and language and this day is celebrated by every Indian in all parts of India," said Chola.
 
Chola said that India in a short span achieved distinction of competing with the most powerful economies in the world and recently, India has overtaken France as the sixth largest economy in the world.
 
"We have seen a fascinating transformation that has taken place in India - U.S. relations in the last several decades with deepening of our relationship based on our shared values of democracy, universal human rights, tolerance and pluralism, equal opportunities for all citizens and rule of law, and our bilateral relations have now developed into a Global Strategic Partnership," Chola continued.
 
The U.S. has been our foremost partner, not only in trade and investment, but also in technology, knowledge and development.
 
The program began with the singing of a patriotic song, followed by a welcome address given by GOPIO-CT President Anita Bhat who gave an account of what GOPIO-CT is doing for the community and the local society. Program Coordinator Shelly Nichani introduced and thanked Mayor Martin for hosting the event. Mayor Martin spoke on the diversity of the City of Stamford and said it enriched the whole city.
 
Congressman Jim Himes compared the American Independence to India's Independence, the difference being India got its independence by non-violent methods.

GOPIO-CT Independence Day Celebration with dignitaries 
Photo - GOPIO-CT Independence Day Celebration with dignitaries -US. Congressman Jim Himes speaking at the celebration. From l. to r.: GOPIO Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham, First County Bank Vice President Nino Antonelli, Indian Consul Jaideep Chola, Stamford Mayor David Martin, GOPIO-CT President Anita Bhat, Program MC Ramya Subramanian and Rep. Himes .
 
"By celebrating India Independence Day in America, we are celebrating the success of the democratic institutions of USA and India, the oldest democracy and largest democracy respectively," said Dr. Thomas Abraham, Founder and Chairman of GOPIO International.
 
Dr. Abraham introduced GOPIO community service awardees Leena Ramchandani and Mangala Dongre. Recognitions were also presented to High Schools graduates.
 
Independence Day messages were also delivered by Republican Congressional candidate for CT's 4th District Harry Arora and candidate for Democratic Treasurer primary Dita Bhargava.

GOPIO-CT I-Day Group Photo
Photo above: GOPIO-CT officials and dignitaries along high school graduate and community service awardee at the India Independence Day Celebration at Stamford Govt. Center on August 12th. Standing from l. to r. GOPIO Founder and Chairman Dr. Thomas Abraham. Beena Ramachandran, Ramya Subramanian, GOPIO-CT President Anita Bhat, First County Bank Vice President Nino Antonelli, Consul Jaideep Chola, Congressman Jim Himes, Leena Ramchandani, Celebration Coordinator Shelly Nichani, Mayor David Martin and Harry Arora. Sitting on the right is GOPIO-Secretary Prasad Chintalapudi.
 
Indian flag along with US and Connecticut flags

Cultural program included dances by "Chak de! India" directed by Shital Pathak; song "One Indian Mashup" performed by AadhyaTejaswim, Harshit Rajshekar and Siri Nagannavar; Jayashree group performing Vande Mataram and a mix of Kathak, Bollywood and Indi pop; Namita Vadhera's group performing a group classical dance; two dances by Malayali Association of Southern CT directed by Neha Shah including a Bollywood dance on the song Kaala Chashma by Sarika & Ahana and a Bharata Natyam by Lakshmi Nair and Anushree Unni. A Guyanese group performed Green Saree Sisters presented by Ashvini Persaud in which she presented sarees from Gujarat, Equador, Kerala and West Indies, telling the history of travel from India to "The New Worlds" with a love for Mother Earth.  Following all the messages, everyone moved out to the flag poles to raise American flag, Indian flag and Connecticut flag.
 

Photo - American, Indian and Connecticut flags flying high in the sky.
 
 
The whole celebration was sponsored by First County Bank, and cultural program was coordinated by Beena Ramachandran and Ramya Subramanian.
 
Over the last 12 years, GOPIO-CT, a chapter of GOPIO International has become an active and dynamic organization hosting interactive sessions with policy makers and academicians, community events, youth mentoring and networking workshops, and working with other area organizations to help create a better future. For more details, please visit: www.gopio-ct.org
 
Contact Anita Bhat, Tel: 203-524-2935, e-mail: abnewyork71@gmail.com
 
GOPIO WAIKATO JOINS HANDS WITH WAIKATO INDIAN ASSOCIATION TO CELERBRTE INDEPENDENCE DAY
 
On August 11, at 7 pm Hamiltonians of several organizations gathered at Peachgrove Intermediate school and celebrated Indian Independence Day on invitation of Waikato Indian association. 140 people attended with several shared their joy and stories. President Tarun Pragji welcomed guests. GOPIO Waikato distributed small Indian flags and Suman Kapoor shared her memories experience of journey of celebrations back in India with interesting facts. Sumptuous dinner was served, followed by cultural performances including Garba. Children youth and senior members all enjoyed equally.

Independence day 2018 Glimpses
Photo: Independence day 2018 Glimpses

Contact: Pradeep Kapoor, President, GOPIO Waikato, kapoorinnz@yahoo.com.
 
MAURITIUS BASED GOPIO-TRIOLET NORTH CELEBRATES INDIA INDEPENDENCE DAY
 
GOPIO-Triolet North (GTN) in Mauritius celebrated 72nd India Independence Day on August 12th at the Sun 7 Restaurant. The Chief Guest was Mr Anil Kumar, Marketing Manager of the Life Insurance Co Ltd of India, who talked on the good relationship of India and Mauritius.
 
"There is a robust engagement between India and Mauritius in all the big projects that has made Mauritius modern, for example, the Metro and in the education and medical fields, and it is important to keep on these closes relation to nurture this partnership relation in order to sustain mutual benefits," said Kumar.
 
Mr. Kumar further emphasized on the OCI Card issued to Mauritian citizens by Prime Minister Modi to the 4th and 5thgeneration. He called the Mauritian people to participate and become more increasingly involved in the global economy as there are many attractive growth and investments opportunities to be done with India.
 
In her welcoming remarks, GOPIO-Triolet North President Kritilata said that the official launching of the chapter was done in June 2018, although GTN existed since 2016. The official launching of chapter was held in the presence of the GOPIO Executive Vice President Mr Ishwar Ramlutchman and GOPIO Intl. Coordinator of Africa Mrs Rita Abraham and other guests from Reunion Island and France. And its starting, GTN has carried out many important activities concerning Education, Traditions, Culture and Religion, Social, Women and Environment aiming at bringing people together in order to promote professional, cultural, and social interests with a view to realize potential of the Diaspora community.
 
Kritilata also pointed out that since India and Mauritius share a special bond, the PIO's and NRIs feel inherently connected to India by bonds of history, culture and heritage and this according to her has added the beauty to the resurgence of India and the remarkable achievements made by them in prominent positions in their adopted countries and are contributing significantly to the countries of their adoption.
 
Mrs Bharatee Awotar the Vice President of GTN talked about Indian workers who came to Mauritius to work on sugar plantations from 1820 and as from 1834 they were brought as Indentured Labourers. She also mentioned the "Aapravasi Day" is observed in Mauritius on each 2nd November as from 1834. She added the presence of Manilall Doctor in 1907, who helped the Mauritian Indian community to organize themselves by laying the foundation for their struggle or political and social rights.
 
Contact: Kritilata Ram, President, GOPIO-Triolet North, Mauritius, kritilataram@gmail.com
   
GOPIO BERLIN HOSTS RAUL GANDHI, MP
     
Congress President, Rahul Gandhi arrived in Germany on the 22 nd of August 2018 for a four-day tour of the United Kingdom and Germany so as to hold interactions with the Indian Diaspora abroad and meetings with foreign dignitaries.
 
On the first day, he gave speech at the Bucerius Summer School in Hamburg before leaving for Berlin to meet the German Chancellor Angela Merkel and other members of the parliament. He discussed a number of domestic and international issues including jobs and trade with them.
 
During his stay in Berlin, a lunch was hosted by GOPIO Berlin chapter President, Mr Bajinder Sodhi. In the evening, Rahul Gandhi interacted with a gathering of the overseas Indians. The audience questioned him on a variety of issues that ranged from politics, education, social life, election 2019 strategy, role of women in political parties, etc.

GOPIO Berlin chapter President Bajinder Sodhi welcoming GOPIO Chairman
Photo above left: GOPIO Berlin chapter President Bajinder Sodhi after presenting a book on the Global Indian Diaspora to Rahul Gandhi. Photo above right: Mrs Sodhi welcoming Mr Rahul Gandhi at the lunch organized by GOPIO Berlin chapter.

Rahul Gandhi Berlin
Photo above left: Rahul Gandhi, MP accompanied by Mr. Sam Pitroda with parliamentarians at the German Parliament, Photo above right: German Chancellor Angela Merkel and GOPIO-Berlin President Bajinder Sodhi

GOPIO INTERNATIONAL OFFICIALS VISIT MAURITIUS AND REUNION

GOPIO OFFICIALS VISIT MAURITIUS

GOPIO Executive Vice President Ishwar Ramlutchman and International Coordinator for Africa Rita Abraham visited Mauritius in June and participated in several program including the official launch of GOPIO-Triolet North and several other function. They also called on to elected officials including Mauritius Acting President Barlen Vyapoory. Later GOPIO International Coordinator for Europe Mehen Poinoosawmy joined who along with Rita Abraham visited Reunion Island.
 
GOPIO Delegation Discussing with Acting President Barlen Vyapoory
Photo top: GOPIO officials in discussion with Mauritius Acting President Barlen Vyapoory. Photo bottom GOPIO Executive VP Ramlutchman presenting a book to Acting President Vyapoory. From l. to r. Rita Abraham, Acting President Vyapoory, Ramutchman and Amita Boolauky Aryawattee


GOPIO-Triolet chapter was officially launched on June 2nd, which was also celebrated as Mother's Day by the chapter.


Launching GOPIO Triolet North chapter
Photo: Cutting the cake by mothers at the Mother's Day
 
Ramlutchman called on Indian High Commissioner Abhay Thakur and discussed working of various programs the Indian Government offers to Indian Diaspora and GOPIO initiatives in Mauritius through its various chapters for cooperation in cultural and education activities. On the following day, Ramlutchman met India's External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.
 
GOPIO officials with Indian High Commissioner Abhay Thakur
Photo: GOPIO officials with Indian High Commissioner Abhay Thakur. From l. to r.: Amita Boolauky Aryawattee, Ishwar Ramutchman, High Commissioner Abhay Thakur, Indian High Commission Political Advisor P.K Singh , Kritilata Ram and Rita Abraham
 
Ramlutchman and GOPIO officials visited many institutions including Lid Nid Primary School, DAV College, SSR School for the Disability to foster good relations between them and GOPIO chapters.
 
Ramlutchman and Rita Abraham also met officials of all GOPIO chapters, GOPIO-Triolet, GOPIO Vacous and GOPIO Quarte Borne and discussed their role and compliance as a chapter

GOPIO Officials Visiting Institutions in Mauritius.June 2018
Photos from top left clockwise: GOPIO officials at Le Nid School, DAV College and Sir Seewoosagar Disability School
 
Contact: Kritilata Ram, President, GOPIO-Triolet North, Mauriutius, kritilataram@gmail.com
 
GOPIO OFFICIALS VISIT REUNION
 
The GOPIO International Coordinators of Africa and Europe, Rita Abraham and Mehen Poinoosawmy visited Reunion Island from 17 th to 19 th of July 2018. During this 3 days they were welcomed by the Consul General of India, His Excellency Shri Paul Babu at Saint Denis. They were accompanied by Ketty Carpaille of GOPIO Reunion and Mrs Kriti Lata Ram of GOPIO Mauritius Triolet.

GOPIO Officials with Consul General Babu Paul in Runion
Photo: GOPIO officials calling on Consul General of India Babu Paul, from l. to r.: Intl Coordinator for Europe Mehen Poinoosawmy, Consul General Babu Paul, Intl. Coordinator for Africa Rita Abraham, Ketty Carpaille of GOPIO Reunion and Mrs Kriti Lata Ram of GOPIO-Triolet North Mauritius
 
Reunion is a small island administered by France in the Indian Ocean. It can be considered as a small territory representing Europe. There is a great population of PIOs brought by the French to develop the island from Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. They have definitely influenced the culture of Reunion, bringing Indian foods, plants, animals and their languages and traditions to the island.
 
Meeting of our GOPIO delegation with the General Consul of India in Reunion Babu Paul was very interesting since the delegation openly discussed about:
  • How GOPIO and the Consulate can work together to interact more with the PIOs in Reunion Island.
  • Issues for the Reunion PIOs to obtain their OCI cards, since the documents proving their Indian roots are no more in the archive.
  • Consulate will make available their Hall for Cultural events or programmes and wish GOPIO to be more active in the region.
  • Consulate will give support in organizing Business summits or Trade Fairs for investors in Reunion.
  • Promotion of Know India Program (KIP) for the youngsters between 18 to 30 years and introduction of Senior Know India Programme (SKIP) for PIOs of 45 to 65 years old.
  • Consulate will back the request of GOPIO to have a special session for Francophone PIOs during PBD January 2019.
  • Consulate will give support in organizing Business summits or Trade Fairs for investors in Reunion.
  • Promotion of Know India Program (KIP) for the youngsters between 18 to 30 years and introduction of Senior Know India Programme (SKIP) for PIOs of 45 to 65 years old.
  • Consulate will back the request of GOPIO to have a special session for Francophone PIOs during PBD January 2019
GOPIO INTL. AND CHAPTER NEWS


GOPIO PRESIDENT KULATHAKAL VISITS SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
 
Sunny Kulathakal, president GOPIO-Int'l and his wife Liz Kulathakal visited Southern California on July 15, 2018. Mr. Kulathakal met privately with presidents of various SoCal chapters including GOPIO Area Coordinator Dilip Butani at Sheraton Hotel in Cerritos. .
 
GOPIO-LA president Anju Garg gave a brief slide-show presentation of group's activities. She explained what this group has done in the past and what it has in store for future activities. She informed Mr. Kulathakal that this LA chapter of GOPIO is a very vibrant and most active in SoCal. We have participated and arranged many Visa Camps, Medical Seminars, Blood Drives, Beach Cleaning, and distributed food and blankets for homeless. Our group also arranged food packaging for Stop Hunger Now, an international charity group that sends food containers to different parts of the world. Our group prepared and paid for approximately 11000 packages. We are also planning another such event in near future.
 
GOPIO treasurer Kewal Kanda explained the interaction of this group with Indian Consulate and CKGS - the Visa Processing agency in San Francisco to hold Visa Camps in Los Angeles area. This service is the most appreciated in the community as Indian Visa/Passport Renewal applications are so complicated even computer savvy people have hard time filling them online. GOPIO-LA's Vice President Rajinder Dhunna highlighted group's involvement with Red Cross for Blood donations. Rani Kuusto and Aparna Hande who are Co-Chairpersons for GOPIO Health and Wellness Council and Nurse Practitioners by trade gave insight of our Diabetes and Women health seminars. Jt. Secretary Kalika Gupta underlined the group's youths' enthusiasm in serving food to the homeless. They had first-hand experience what it is like being homeless. GOPIO Foundation's executive trustee Inder Singh also graced the occasion. GOPIO-LA members presented a book titled "Indian-Americans in Greater Los Angeles Area" to GOPIO President.
 
GOPIO president Sunny Kulathakal thanked the LA chapter for hosting and inviting him to participate in chapter's general body meeting and was happy to be there. He was elated to see the group members' participation in various activities and encouraged them to continue doing the excellent work. He appreciated the groups cohesiveness. He invited the chapter members to come to Varanasi and participate in GOPIO general body meeting as well as attend the PBD. He also mentioned that he was working on a donation of approximately one million dollars for our GOPIO Foundation and he would work with the GOPIO Executive Committee to set up the modalities.
 
GOPIO-LA chapter members thanked Mr. Kulathakal and his wife for their cordial visit to So-Cal.

GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal's visit to So-Cal  
Photo: GOPIO President Sunny Kulathakal's visit to So-Cal, Sitting L-R: Dr. Asmath Noor, Charu Shivakumar, Mini Guleria, Liz Kulathakal, Deepi Singh, Anju Garg, Aparna Hande, Asha Kanda, Dr. Manorama Gupta, Rani Kuusto, Shaila Patankar, Dr. Pammi Bevli;  Standing L-R: Rajinder Dhunna, Sunil Garg, Harry Shad, Kewal Kanda, Inder Singh, Sunny Kulathakal, Ashok Madan, Suresh Chandna, Ramesh Chandna.
 
Presenting book on Los Angeles Indians
Presenting book on Los Angeles Indians - Anju Garg, Sunny Kulathakal, Kewal Kanda, Inder Singh, Deepi Singh, Ashok Madan, Harry Shad, Aparna Hande, Dr. Pammi Bevli, Rani Kuusto

Contact: Anju Garg, President, GOPIO-LA, 562-818-2363, anjug@hotmail.com
 
GOPIO-CENTRAL JERSEY JOINS HANDS TO ORGANIZE HEALTH CAMP
 
More than 150 people attended health fair organized by Indian Health Camp of New Jersey on Sunday, July 8, 2018 at Sri Venkateswara Temple (Balaji Mandir) in Bridgewater, NJ; Dr. Tushar Patel and GOPIO Central Jersey Chapter supported the event.
 
The health fair was open to all pre-registered participants above the age of 40 without any medical insurance. The health screenings included blood test, EKG, vision screening for glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy, physical examination, cardiology and various types of cancer screening and prevention education, chronic disease self-management via ask your doctor, diabetes and stroke education, HIV testing and education, dietary counseling, mental health screening by SAMHIN and ZUFALL Health for chronic diseases and many other ancillary services to more than 150 pre-registered qualified participants.
 
The physicians and other specialists, mental health providers and other allied health care professionals from various specialties of internal medicine, cardiology, ophthalmology, gynecology, neurology, dietary and nutritional specialist, phlebotomists, EKG techs, medical assistants, nurses, social workers and medical students provided their services on this day to screen and educate patients on diabetes, hypertension, cardiac diseases, high cholesterol, various types of cancer screening and education and other chronic debilitating diseases specifically targeted to the South Asian population. 

GOPIO entral Jersey Health Fair
The blood test reports were reviewed by the physicians and mailed it to all participants with a counseling note for any abnormal tests. The dedicated team from the State of New Jersey Commission for the Blind provided thorough eye screening to qualified patients on these days to promote their noble cause of preventing blindness in the community. The blood test services were provided by LabCorp.
 
Overall a highly successful community effort.
 
Contact: Dr. Tushar Patel, President, GOPIO-Central Jersey and Chair, GOPIO Health Council, 848-391-0499, tpatel434@yahoo.com
 
GOPIO-LOS ANGELES ORGANIZES BLOOD DRIVE
 
GOPIO-LA Chapter in association with Red Cross and local organizations Rajput Association of America and Apna Punjabi Group organized a blood drive on June 17, 2018 at Sanatan Temple's community hall in Norwalk, CA. A lot of donors volunteered to donate blood. But, unfortunately, many of them had to be denied due to Red Cross imposed travel restrictions. Many donors had visited India within last 12 months that barred them to donate blood. Even with all the restrictions there was a lot of enthusiasm to donate blood and many were accepted and happily donated the blood. This was second time within a year that GOPIO-LA's has organized the blood camp.
 
Red Cross personnel were very happy and appreciative that GOPIO-LA is taking the initiative to save lives and expressed the desire to come back for another blood drive camp when GOPIO-LA desires. GOPIO-LA president Anju Garg and Vice president Rajinder Dhunna took the responsibility to make it happen and were elated to see its success. 

GOPIO-Lod Sngeles Blood Drive 2018
Photo: GOPIO Los Angeles Blood Drive 2018

This chapter has promised to Red Cross to continue to organize such blood drives in future. Other GOPIO-LA officers who joined this effort directly or indirectly were Kewal Kanda, Baljinder Tahim, Ashok Madan, Aparna Hande, Dr. Manorama Sharma, Dr. Asmath Noor, Navin Gupta, Navjot Singh, and a few volunteers. GOPIO-LA thanks Sanatan Temple administration to provide the facility free of cost for this noble cause.
 
Contact: Anju Garg, President, GOPIO-LA, 562-818-2363, anjug@hotmail.com
 
GOPIO FRANCE PARIS PARTICIPATE IN KIP (KNOW INDIA PROGRAM) - Sept 2018
 
Sandrine Parent of GOPIO France Youth Council is selected to join the 47th KIP-Know India Programme which is starting on 29th of September 2018.The State Government of Tamil Nadu is partnering this 49th KIP.
 
Since the last 2 years GOPIO France has sent 25 youngsters of 18 to 30 years of Indian Origin to connect back to Mother India through the different KIPs.
 
GOPIO-France Paris Youth Council Sandrine Parent in KIP
From top left to right: Vimal Khosla, Honorary President of GOPIO France, Sandrine Parent 47th KIP participant, GOPIO Intl. Youth Council Co-Chairperson Leena Doollee , GOPIO International Coordinator Mehen Poinoosawmy, and Radhika Singh of Embassy of India.
 
The KIP-Know India Programme is a three-week orientation visit to India for Diaspora youth conducted with a view to promote awareness on different facets of life and the progress made by the country in various fields e.g. Economic, Industrial, Education, Culture, Science & Technology, Communication & Information Technology.
 
GOPIO France wishes "Bon Voyage" to Sandrine and invites all the youngsters wishing to join KIP to contact GOPIO France Paris: gopioparisfr@gmail.com or www.gopiofrance.com
 
 
GOPIO-CT HOSTS FIRST SELECTMEN OF WESTPORT JIM MARPE WITH THE COMMUNITY
 
GOPIO-CT organized a Meet and Greet and an interactive session for the Indian American residents of Westport with First Selectman Jim Marpe on July 26th evening at the Mumbai Times Indian Restaurant in Westport. Marpe was joined by Second Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker.
 
The purpose of the meetings was to explore how Indian Americans can help Westport town in local community service activities as well as to provide a good image of Westport to those who may want to move to Westport.
 
First Selectman Marpe was in good form explaining what he has done since he took over the mantle of Westport. Earlier Second Selectwoman Tooker greeted the audience. After Marpe's speech, several questions were raised by those in attendance which Marpe answered.
 
The program was organized by GOPIO-CT founder Dr. Thomas Abraham and assisted by Westport residents Ritu Johorey and Krishna Patel.

GOPIO-CT officials with Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe  
Photo: GOPIO-CT organizers and Westport Indian residents with and Second Selectwoman Jennifer Tooker at the Meet and Greet event organized by GOPIO-CT

Contact: Anita Bhat, President, GOPIO-CT, Tel" +1 203-524-2935, abnewyork71@gmail.com

GOPIO YOUTH COUNCIL CELEBRATES WOMEN'S DAY
 
GOPIO International Youth Council Co Chair Ms Shwetha Suredin, Mrs Sulosh Pillay (ACT) and GOPIO International Executive Vice President Ishwar Ramlutchman visited Trubel Primary School in Tongaat. Youth Council Co Chair had the greatest honor to give a motivational talk to the girls at Trubel Primary School and her message was based around women, their power and how to nurture it and claim it back!
 
Here's to strong women and future leaders.
 
NEW YORK BASED GOPIO INITIATED SACSS RECEIVED $700,000 HEALTH INITIATIVE GRANT
 
The South Asian Council for Social Services (SACSS), a community-based, non-profit organization, has received a $700,000 grant from the OneCity Health Innovation Fund to implement its project, Culturally Responsive Collaborative of Queens (CRCQ).
 
SACSS, being one of OneCity Health's community partners, will use this grant funding to implement programs to reduce avoidable hospitalizations, improve community health outcomes, address food security, health literacy and other factors that impact people's health.
 
SACSS was founded in 2000 and in addition to addressing health-related issues, it also teaches English and computer literacy to South Asians and other immigrants to help them assimilate into the economic and civic life of New York. SACSS also runs the first South Asian food pantry in New York.
 
Sudha Acharya, the Indian-American executive director of SACSS, states, "We are thrilled with this award that will ensure the health and well-being of our communities. We believe that this encouragement from OneCity Health will serve as a strong step towards the realization of the DSRIP mission."
 
NEW CANAAN FIRST SELECTMAN KEVIN MOYNIHAN MEETS INDIAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY
 
GOPIO-CT organized a Meet and Greet and an interactive session for the Indian American residents of New Canaan with First Selectman Kevin Moynihan on August 22nd evening at the Chef Prasad Indian Restaurant in New Canaan.
 
First Selectman Moynihan explained what he has done since he took over the mantle of New Canaan. After Moynihan's speech, several questions were raised by those in attendance which he answered.
 
Also present at the gathering were Board of Finance Member Michael Chen and Town Council Member John Engel.
 
The program was organized by GOPIO-CT founder Dr. Thomas Abraham and assisted by GOPIO-CT President Anita Bhat and New Canaan resident and GOPIO-CT Treasurer Viresh Sharma.

GOPIO-CT Meeting New Canaan First Selectman Kevin Moynihan
Photo - GOPIO-CT organizers and New Canaan Indian residents with First New Canaan Selectman Kevin Moynihan at the Meet and Greet event organized by GOPIO-CT

Contact: Anita Bhat, President, GOPIO-CT, Tel" +1 203-524-2935, abnewyork71@gmail.com
 
GOPIO YOUTH COUNCIL CELEBRATES WOMEN'S DAY
 
GOPIO International Youth Council Co Chair Ms Shwetha Suredin, Mrs Sulosh Pillay (ACT) and GOPIO International Executive Vice President Ishwar Ramlutchman visited Trubel Primary School in Tongaat. Youth Council Co Chair had the greatest honor to give a motivational talk to the girls at Trubel Primary School and her message was based around women, their power and how to nurture it and claim it back!
 
Here's to strong women and future leaders.
 
NEW YORK BASED GOPIO INITIATED SACSS RECEIVED $700,000 HEALTH INITIATIVE GRANT
 
The South Asian Council for Social Services (SACSS), a community-based, non-profit organization, has received a $700,000 grant from the OneCity Health Innovation Fund to implement its project, Culturally Responsive Collaborative of Queens (CRCQ).
 
SACSS, being one of OneCity Health's community partners, will use this grant funding to implement programs to reduce avoidable hospitalizations, improve community health outcomes, address food security, health literacy and other factors that impact people's health.
 
SACSS was founded in 2000 and in addition to addressing health-related issues, it also teaches English and computer literacy to South Asians and other immigrants to help them assimilate into the economic and civic life of New York. SACSS also runs the first South Asian food pantry in New York.
 
Sudha Acharya, the Indian-American executive director of SACSS, states, " We are thrilled with this award that will ensure the health and well-being of our communities. We believe that this encouragement from OneCity Health will serve as a strong step towards the realization of the DSRIP mission."
 
GOPIO AUCKLAND CENTRAL PLANS ACTIVITIES
 
GOPIO Auckland Central Chapter received an acknowledgement and letter of gratitude from Taraltec Solutions Private Limited. In March 2018, chapter members contributed towards Bore well Hand pumps Project for villages in India.
 
The Taraltecâ„¢ Reactors that esteemed members of GOPIO Auckland Central Chapter have sponsored have been fitted in the Palghar (pic 1) and Aurangabad district (pic 2) in Maharashtra in India.
 
This pump physically kills microbes to eliminate waterborne diseases such as diarrhoea-cholera-typhoid. Once fitted the device requires no maintenance. Once fitted the device requires no maintenance. A local filter can install it in less than an hour with no special tools or training. The key person for this project is Mr Anjan Mukherjee. [Email:  anjan@tarltec.com ]
 
The hand pump costs INR 7500.00 each. We are encouraging other GOPIO chapters to consider to adopt this project.
 
GOPIO Auckland central chapter meeting was held at President Shefali Mehta's residence on 24 June 2018.Bi monthly meeting was well attended by members to plan and discuss future projects.

GOPIO Auckland Chapter officials with guests at its monthly meeting  
Photo: GOPIO Auckland Chapter officials with guests at its monthly meeting. Standing in second row from left to right: Abhijit Patni, Rahul Kumar, Shailen Mehta, Kuldip Arora and Rakesh Mahiar; Standing in first row from left to right: Sangeeta Maihar, Lalita Minocha, SukhMinocha, Sukarna Amirapu; Sitting from Left to Right: Shivani Arora, Arati Prasad, Shefali Mehta, Kumi Sharma, Satya Amirapu, DivyaPahwa
 
Contact: Shefali Mehta , President, GOPIO-Auckland Central, New Zealand,  Ph: 64 9 3083930 Mob: 021 941181, eMail: shefalim@pdl123.co.nz

NRIs AND PIOs ACHIEVE

INDIAN-ORIGIN LAWYER APPOINTED JUDICIAL COMMISSIONER OF SINGAPORE'S APEX COURT
 
Dedar Singh Gill, an intellectual property lawyer has been appointed as a judicial commissioner of the country's Supreme Court

A graduate of National University, Gill was earlier the Managing Director of the Intellectual Property department of the law firm, Drew and Napier LLC. Gill is one of Singapore's top intellectual property (IP) litigators and has represented many prominent corporate clients.
 
Earlier, he was the president of the Asian Patent Attorneys' Association (Singapore Group) and was also appointed as deputy president of the Copyright Tribunal.
 
INDIAN-AMERICAN WOMAN APPOINTED CFO OF GENERAL MOTORS
 
Indian-American, Dhivya Suryadevara has successfully entered the predominantly male bastion of the auto industry by being appointed as the Chief Financial Officer of American automaker, General Motors (GM).
 
Ms. Suryadevara who has been with GM since 2005, has been responsible for corporate financial planning, investor relations and special projects. She played an integral role in the divestiture of its European arm, Opel and the acquisition of the self-driving vehicle startup, Cruise. Recently, she also helped to secure a $2.25 billion investment in GM Cruise by Japanese tech giant SoftBank Group Corp.
 
She has Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Commerce from the University of Madras, Chennai and an MBA from Harvard University. Before joining GM, she worked at UBS and PricewaterhouseCoopers.

INDIAN-AMERICAN JAY KHOSLA APPOINTED CHIEF ECONOMIC POLICY COUNSEL
 
Jay Khosla, an Indian-American has been appointed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to head the Republican leader's economic policy team.
 
He was the staff director for the Senate Finance Committee and will serve as the chief economic policy counsel to McConnell, R-Kentucky.
 
Khosla, a board member of the David Winston Health Policy Fellowship, was according to Politico, "responsible for driving and implementing a broad legislative agenda for the committee with the largest jurisdiction in Congress."
 
During the 2008 presidential campaign, Khosla was Arizona Republican Senator John McCain's health policy director. He has served as Senior Health Counsel for the United States Senate Budget Committee and earlier, as Policy Counsel for former Senate Majority Leader William (Bill) Frist, R-Tennessee. 
 
Khosla is a graduate of the Virginia Commonwealth University with a law degree from the University of Richmond School of Law.
 
 
INDIAN-AMERICAN JUDGE NOMINATED TO FEDERAL JUDGESHIP BY PRESIDENT TRUMP
 
Ms. Diane Gujarati, a prosecutor of Indian descent, has been nominated by President Donald Trump to a federal judgeship in an unusual move, as she had been former President Barack Obama's choice for this position.

Her re-nomination by Donald Trump shows both her legal standing, as well as the administration's difficulty in finding suitable candidates who can win Senate support.

A graduate of the Ivy League Yale University's law school, Ms. Gujarati has also been an adjunct professor at New York University School of Law.

INDIAN-AMERICAN RESEARCHERS ELECTED TO THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES
 
Six Indian-Americans are among the prestigious electees to the National Academy of Sciences. They are Arun Agrawal, Sanjeev Arora, Mahzarin R. Banaji, Utpal Banerjee, Raj Chetty and Umesh Vazirani.
 
The National Academy of Sciences is a private, nonprofit institution that recognizes achievements in science by election to membership. It also advises the federal government and other organizations on science, engineering, and health issues.
 
Arun Agrawal is the coordinator of international forestry resources and institutions research network and professor of the School for Environment and Sustainability at the University of Michigan. He has written about indigenous knowledge, community-based conservation, common property, population resources, and environmental identities. 
 
He has undergraduate degrees from Delhi University and the Indian Institute of Management and a Master's degree and a doctorate from Duke University.
 
Sanjeev Arora is the Charles C. Fitzmorris professor of computer science at Princeton University's Computer Science department.
 
He is a member of the group in Theoretical Computer Science and Theoretical Machine Learning. Earlier, he has worked on computational complexity, computing approximate solutions to NP-hard problems and related issues.
 
Arora has an undergraduate degree from MIT and a doctorate from U.C. Berkeley.
 
Mahzarin Banaji is the Richard Clarke Cabot professor of social ethics in the Harvard University Psychology Department.
 
She also serves as the first Carol K. Pforzheimer professor at the Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study and as the George A. and Helen Dunham Cowan chair in human dynamics at the Santa Fe Institute. Earlier, she was a professor of Psychology at Yale.
 
Ms. Banaji studies thinking and feeling as they unfold in a social context, with a focus on mental systems that operate in an implicit or unconscious mode. Her current research focuses on the origins of social cognition and applications of implicit cognition to improve individual decisions and organizational policies.
 
Utpal Banerjee is the UCLA Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology chair and a professor in this department.
 
In addition to his current role, he serves as co-director of the Broad Stem Cell Research Center and as director of the UCLA Interdepartmental Minor in Biomedical Research.
 
He is also a member of UCLA's Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center and is affiliated with the Brain Research Institute and the Neuroscience Graduate Program.
 
Banerjee has an undergraduate degree in Chemistry from Delhi University and an MS in Physical Chemistry from the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur. He has a doctorate in Chemistry from the California Institute of Technology. 
 
Raj Chetty is a professor of economics at Stanford University's Department of Economics. Chetty also serves as a co-director of the Public Economics group at the National Bureau of Economic Research.
 
His research combines empirical evidence and theory to inform the design of more effective government policies. Chetty's work on tax policy, unemployment, education, and social mobility has been widely cited in media outlets and Congressional testimony.
 
Chetty is a recipient of the MacArthur "Genius" Fellowship and is one of the youngest recipients of the John Bates Clark medal, given by the American Economic Association to the best American economist under age 40. (See India-West story here:  https://bit.ly/2HZBCNK ).
 
He has undergraduate and doctorate degrees from Harvard University.
 
Umseh Vazirani is the director of U.C. Berkeley's Quantum Information and Computation Center. He is also the Roger A. Strauch professor of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at this university.
 
His research interests lie primarily in quantum computing and he has published a book on algorithms.
 
Vazirani has an undergraduate degree from MIT and a doctorate from U.C. Berkeley.
GOPIOs, NRIs and PIOs NEWS FEATURES

SMITA DAS, A FOUNTAIN OF LOVE, PASSES AWAY

Smita DasSmita Das, a beloved member of Indian community, a social worker, a beautiful singer, and a gentle soul completed her life journey on August 13, 2018 at UCLA's Ronald Reagan Hospital. She was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer just a short time ago. After going through an intensive treatment for this deadly disease she felt better for a while. But her condition took turn for the worse soon after. Despite receiving the best care, and fighting the disease bravely, she could not win the fight and left for heavenly abode on Monday morning, Aug 13.
 
Smita was born on January 12, 1973 to parents Late Ananta Charan Das and Late Usha Rani Das in Cuttack, Orissa, India. She had master's degree in Nutrition Science and post graduate diploma in Computer Applications from Sambalpur University, Orissa. After getting married on February 16, 1998 she immigrated to USA in December 1998 and settled in Cerritos, CA. She is survived by her husband Pradeep Sahoo and daughter Astha Sahoo.
 
Smita was a versatile singer, a beautiful dancer, a great painter, and an excellent cook. She was an entrepreneur. She founded, and was executive member of, Workspot Corp. She also founded Indus Infotech, an IT Company. Community work was her lifelong passion. She was always ready and willing to assist in organizing charity and cultural events related to India. Smita's passion included helping and entertaining senior citizens, raising funds for charities, and volunteer for any community event.
 
Recently she was appointed Commissioner for City of Cerritos by the City Council. She was also Director at Artesia Chamber of Commerce. She was member of NFIA, UFICA, GOPIO-LA, and Lions Club where she organized many cultural events to promote Indian Culture.
 
In her death, Indian Community has lost a valuable member who was a wonderful human being, and a great social worker. Smita, Indian Community loves you and going to miss you and your contributions. Rest in Peace.
NEWS OF INTEREST TO NRIs AND PIOs AROUND THE WORLD
 
CANADIAN PERMANENT VISA FOR US H1B HOLDERS WAITING FOR US PERMANENT VISA
 
It has been brought to our attention though various that group that those H1B holder waiting for US permanent resident visa may apply for Canadian Permanent via which is easier to get. Visit Canadian Immigration website to know how one could qualify.

 
NOTE TO NRIs - REGISTER TO VOTE IN INDIA
 
Please register as overseas voters following this link http://eci.nic.in/OverseasVoters/home.html so that you will be eligible to vote in the next parliament election in 2019. Please share this with all the overseas groups where you are a member.
 
Inform your friends and relatives abroad to register *This is only for those Indians out of India holding Indian passports*
GOPIO LIFE MEMBERSHIP AND CHAPTER FORMATION
 
GOPIO is a non-partisan, non-sectarian global organization with chapters in several countries, actively promoting the interests of people of Indian origin worldwide by monitoring and addressing current critical issues of concern, and by enhancing cooperation and communication between groups of Indians living in various countries.
 
GOPIO Individual Life membership is open to all who believe in the mission of GOPIO. The one- time fee is $5,000 for Platinum Life Membership, $2,500 for Gold Life Membership and $1,500 Silver Life Membership and 2/3rdthe amount for each category for those from developing countries and India.
 
GOPIO is looking forward to opening chapters in all major cities of the world, so as to network with people of Indian origin all over the world. If you do not have a chapter in your city, please visit the GOPIO website (www.gopio.net) and get details of chapter initiation (visit http://www.gopio.net/chapter_initiative.htm). This process involves sending a letter of intent to start a chapter by a committee of five people or more. For more information, contact:
 
GOPIO Chairman - Dr. Thomas Abraham, Stamford, Connecticut, USA, Tel: +1-203-329-8010, E-mail: gopio@optonline.net
 
GOPIO President - Sunny Kulathakal, Bahrain, +973-39441956, India +91-9845756692, E-mail: kulathakal44@gmail.com
 
GOPIO Executive Vice President - Ishwar Ramlutchman, Durban, South Africa, Tel: +27-83-3578747, E-mail: ramlutchmanishwar@gmail.com
 
GOPIO Vice President - Ram Gadhavi, Wayne, New Jersey, USA, Tel: +1-973-699-8582, E-mail: ram@gadhavi.net
 
GOPIO's Global Ambassador - Issac John, Dubai, UAE, +971-50 625 9941, E-mail: isacjohn@gmail.com
 
GOPIO Secretary - Dr. Rajeev Mehta, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA, Tel: +1-732-986-2584, rajimehta@hotmail.com
Executive Trustee of GOPIO Foundation - Inder Singh, Tarzana, California, USA, Tel: +1-818-708-3885, E-mail: indersinghusa@gmail.com
 
GICC Chairman - Niraj Baxi, San Jose, California, USA, Tel: 408-307-9845 , E-mail: nbaxi@insuranceplanning.com
 
To become a Life member of GOPIO, visit http://www.gopio.net/gopio_membership.html , print and fill up the form and send it with a check to:. GOPIO International, PO Box 1413, Stamford, CT 06904, USA

EDITORIAL BOARD

Chief Editor:  Dr. Thomas Abraham, Chairman, GOPIO International (Stamford, CT, USA)
Editor: J. Nami Kaur, Media Council Chair, GOPIO International (New York, USA)
Associate Editors: Layla Matthew (Bangalore, India), Harry Walia (Australia), Marlan Padayachee (South Africa)
Webmasters:  Abu Thomas (Ardsley, New York, USA)

Contributors of this issue:  ISunny Kulathakal, President, GOPIO International (Bahrain); Anita Bhat, President, GOPIO-CT (Stamford, CT, USA); Shefali Mehta, President, GOPIO-Auckland Central Chapter (Auckland, New Zealand); Vinita Khushal, President, GOPIO Queensland (Brisbane, Australia); Pradeep Kapoor, President, GOPIO Waikato (Waikato, Australia); Kritilata Ram, President, GOPIO-Triolet North (Mauritius); Bajinder Sodhi, President, GOPIO-Berlin (Berlin, Germany); Ishwar Ramlutchman, GOPIO Executive Vice President (Durban, South Africa); Mehen Poinoosawmy, GOPIO Intl Coordinator for Europe (Paris, France); Tushar Patel, Chair, GOPIO Health Council (New Jersey, USA); Kewal Kanda, Treasurer, GOPIO International (Norwalk, California, USA); 

GOPIO NEWS welcomes NRI/PIO related stories from all over the world. Be a volunteer correspondent or reporter. 
 
Contact Dr. Thomas Abraham, Tel: 203-329-8010, E-mail: gopio@optonline.net.

Visit GOPIO's Official site at www.gopio.net  or www.gopio.com