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Author: World News

  • NYC is headed towards Economic Tsunami, Mayor Adams.

    Web Desk:

    According to CBS News, New York Mayor Eric Adams is looking to tighten the city’s budget again.

    For one, he’s ordered a partial hiring freeze as he warns of an “economic tsunami” coming toward New York City.

    As CBS2’s Alice Gainer reports, this builds on what he already asked of these agencies back in September. He cites the local and national economies, financial markets, rising healthcare costs, high energy prices, and inflation as the reasoning.

    In a letter to commissioners of city agencies, the mayor’s budget director said 50% of open city government jobs will not be filled – about 4,700 jobs.

    “We’re going to do everything we can to find those efficiencies, to find the best cost savings as possible, then we’re going to move to plan b and plan c,” Adams said.

    This doesn’t apply to uniformed members of the FDNY, NYPD or teachers, or positions that generate revenue.

    “No one is escaping. We’re going to do it in levels that are not going to hurt the delivery of services and safety of the city,” Adams said.

    Back in September, city agencies were told to cut their budgets by 3% this fiscal year and nearly 5% the next.

    The post NYC is headed towards Economic Tsunami, Mayor Adams. first appeared on VOSA.

  • PTI New Jersey demands transparent inquiry into assassination attempt on Imran Khan’s life

    New Jersey: The workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) New Jersey have demanded that a transparent inquiry into the assassination attack on Imran Khan should be completed immediately, and facts should be brought before the public.

    This demand was made by the PTI workers at an event held at a local hotel in solidarity with their Chairman Imran Khan after the assassination attempt on the former Prime Minister and Chairman of PTI in Gujranwala.

    Officials of PTI said that Pakistan has been facing the same problems for 70 years and Khan is the solution to steer the country out of the crisis.

    Imran Khan is the bright future of Pakistan. PTI will form the government in the country in the upcoming general elections.

    Naveed Waraich, the host of the event, introduced the guests and also moderated the event.

    In addition to PTI workers, a large number of overseas Pakistanis including women also participated in the solidarity ceremony with Imran Khan.

    The participants said that Imran Khan has awakened political consciousness in every Pakistani citizen.

    Opponents do not want Pakistan to develop, but the whole nation will support Imran Khan in every difficult time, he said.

    Speakers participating in the event also gave advice to the youth and women to become politically active.

    The speakers said that their love and political commitment to Imran Khan is unconditional and unwavering, they believe that under the leadership of Imran Khan, Pakistan will start a new era of development.

    At the end of the ceremony, young workers of PTI also recited a poem in solidarity with Imran Khan.

    The post PTI New Jersey demands transparent inquiry into assassination attempt on Imran Khan’s life first appeared on VOSA.

  • Malaysia ex-Premiere Mahathir loses seat in first election defeat in 53 years

    KUALA LUMPUR: Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad lost his parliamentary seat in general elections held on Saturday, a defeat which may result into ending of political career of one of Asia’s most enduring politicians.

    He was at the fourth position with 4 thousand 566 votes, reports suggest.

    Mahathir Mohamad, who was the prime minister for two decades, was defeated by Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah, the candidate of former prime minister Muhyiddin Yassin’s electoral alliance.

    After this defeat, Mahathir Mohamad’s 70-year political journey is likely to come to an end.

    Mahathir told Reuters in an interview this month he would retire from politics if he lost.”I don’t see myself being active in politics until I’m 100-years-old,” he said. “The most important thing is to transfer my experience to the younger leaders of the party.”

    “However, I want to transfer my experience to the youth,” he said

    The results so far show that the new alliance formed under the leadership of former Malaysian Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin will be successful in these elections, and Anwar Ibrahim’s coalition may stand at second position.

    Al Jazeera reported that Mahathir came in fourth in a five-way fight in Langkawi, a resort island in Malaysia’s northwest, which he had won with a large majority in the previous poll in 2018.

    It was the 97-year-old’s first electoral defeat in more than half a century. He was Malaysia’s prime minister for 22 years from 1981 until he announced his shock retirement in 2003.

    He returned to active politics as the multibillion-dollar scandal at state fund 1MDB unfolded, and joining forces with his former deputy turned rival Anwar Ibrahim to defeat the then ruling Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition – a grouping they had both once been part of – to become prime minister against in 2018, just two months shy of his 93rd birthday.

    The post Malaysia ex-Premiere Mahathir loses seat in first election defeat in 53 years first appeared on VOSA.

  • Thanksgiving Day: COPO distributes hundreds of turkey and Halal Chicken.

    New York:

    The Council of People’s Organization distributed 1,000 turkeys and 800 halal chickens to the needy on the arrival of Thanksgiving Day.

    There are only a few days left to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, the festival of sharing happiness in America. The Council of People’s Organization on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn decorated several stalls outside its office on the occasion of Thanksgiving Day.

    COPO President Mohammad Rizvi along with dozens of his volunteers distributed fresh vegetables, and fruits to the needy, and distributed turkey and halal chicken among 1000 people along with essential items.

    A large number of white-clad and needy families from the Brooklyn and its suburbs were gathered here and respectfully received the required food and drink as gifts.

    On this occasion, Mohammad Rizvi further said that it has become difficult for people with low income to bear the burden of increasing expenses.

    “we are fortunate that we have the support of our donors and we are a source of help to the needy,” he added.

    A clear message for everyone in the festival of Thanksgiving Day is that if you have more than you need, start sharing it, the happiness in your life will be doubled.

    The post Thanksgiving Day: COPO distributes hundreds of turkey and Halal Chicken. first appeared on VOSA.

  • Famous Cardiologist Dr. Salman Adeel Haq passes away after cardiac arrest.

    Well-known cardiologist Dr. Salman Adeel Haq passes away at age of 51 after cardiac arrest at in queens, New York.

    He was born in 1971 in Pakistan and belong to Karachi, couples of decades ago he moved to America, according to family.

    The body of deceased is Being prepared to send Texas for his Funeral and burial at Al Rayyan Muslims Funeral services, Brooklyn.

    Pakistani -American community expressed their deep grief and sorrow over sudden death of Dr. Salman Adeel Haq.

    The community has prayed for his forgiveness and shares the grief of the bereaved family in this hour of distress.

    The post Famous Cardiologist Dr. Salman Adeel Haq passes away after cardiac arrest. first appeared on VOSA.

  • US senators assure APPAC to provide the best possible relief assistance to help flood victims in Pakistan

    New York: The U.S senators have assured American-Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) that they are ready to extend all possible assistance and cooperation to help the flood victims of Pakistan.

    A 17-member delegation of APPAC, headed by its Chairman Ijaz Ahmad, met with the American Senators to draw their attention to the unprecedented damage caused by floods in Pakistan.

    The APPAC delegation told the U.S lawmakers that Pakistan is facing the worst flood disaster in history caused by the global warming. Pakistan cannot face such huge losses alone, and the entire world community should step up and help Pakistan.

    APPAC Board members and its representatives from different states of America were part of this delegation.

    American Senators and members of Congress have assured APPAC that they will play their role as much as possible to help the flood victims of Pakistan.

    Senator Lindsey Graham has said that America wants to see Pakistan as a strong and stable country. A strong Pakistan is essential for the peace of this region.

    After the meeting, the APPAC delegation held a press conference at a local restaurant in Virginia and briefed the journalists about the meeting.

    Dr. Ijaz Ahmad who has also met the US President Joe Biden two months ago in September said that President Joe Biden has repeatedly pledged to help Pakistan on the effects of climate change and the flood situation facing Pakistan.

    Later, in a conversation with the media, Chairman Dr. Ijaz Ahmad said that there has been a loss of $30 billion due to floods in Pakistan. “We want at least $500 million in aid to be given to Pakistan immediately in the next three to four weeks,” he said.

    APPAC chairman further said that it is not possible for the organization to meet all the senators, so a lobbying firm has also been hired to meet all US senators and legislators to convince them to help flood-hit Pakistan in this need of hour.

    The post US senators assure APPAC to provide the best possible relief assistance to help flood victims in Pakistan first appeared on VOSA.

  • Ehsan Chughtai – senior adviser to NYC Mayor rushed to ICU of Maimonides Medical Center due to ailment

    New York: New York Mayor Eric Adams’ senior adviser Ehsan Chughtai was rushed to the Intense Care Unit (ICU) of Maimonides Medical Center due to ailment, as per family sources.

    Chughtai was is being treated in the Maimonides Medical Center due to severe infection for the last few days, however due to health deterioration, he was moved to the ICU, now.

    The family and close friends have appealed for prayers for the speedy recovery of Ehsan Chughatai.

    In a message on social media, Ehsan Chughtai’s brother wrote, “Please keep praying for our brother Ehsan Chughtai.”

    He added that Chughtai has an amazing personality. He is a good friend, husband, father, mentor, and activist.

    The hospital’s best staff and expert doctors are taking care of him.

    The post Ehsan Chughtai – senior adviser to NYC Mayor rushed to ICU of Maimonides Medical Center due to ailment first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • NYC Mayor plans to move the underserved people in streets and shelters to permanent, yet quality housing

    New York: Mayor Eric Adams feels the pain of thousands of homeless New Yorkers and those living in streets and shelter homes, as he has announced a mega package of new housing reforms to provide them permanent yet affordable housing, even in higher-income neighborhoods.

    The announcement came, a couple of days back. The package of major new housing reforms will help New Yorkers exit the shelter system – or avoid it entirely – and move more quickly into permanent housing even in the posh localities of the city.

    As per details available at the official Website of the City of New York, the reforms include significant improvements to the City Family Homelessness and Eviction Prevention Supplement (CityFHEPS) housing voucher program that will ensure more New Yorkers are eligible for the program and make the voucher more flexible and easier to use; a groundbreaking pilot program – “Street to Housing” – that will place New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness directly into supportive housing; and a major expansion of the city’s housing mobility program, which helps families with federal housing vouchers access apartments in more neighborhoods across the five boroughs.

    Together, these reforms deliver on key commitments in Mayor Adams’ “Housing Our Neighbors: A Blueprint for Housing and Homelessness,” which reoriented the city’s approach to homelessness, treating it as a housing problem. This package also complements other key initiatives in the housing blueprint, including efforts to accelerate the creation of supportive housing, expand overall housing supply, and eliminate unnecessary obstacles New Yorkers face to obtain housing.

    “Our administration is tackling this crisis head-on by focusing on moving New Yorkers into stable, high-quality, affordable housing. That’s what will define success for this administration, and that’s what these reforms are about,” said Mayor Adams. “Like our housing blueprint, these changes were informed by those with lived experience of homelessness and on the front lines of this crisis. And today, we’re starting a major effort to fast-track New Yorkers in need to permanent housing and getting stuff done for those who need help the most.”

    “When we released the Adams administration blueprint, Housing Our Neighbors, we promised to put people over paperwork, and that’s what you’re seeing today,” said Chief Housing Officer Jessica Katz. “By streamlining access to CityFHEPS and supportive housing and expanding the power of our Housing Choice Vouchers, more New Yorkers will be able to remain stably housed, avoid the shelter system, and raise their families affordably. This is only the beginning of the work we have to do, but we made a promise to our neighbors to improve housing in this city, and we are following through on that effort.”

    “These reforms give us new flexibility and additional tools to shorten the pathway for families and individuals experiencing homelessness to move into safe, stable, and affordable housing,” said Deputy Mayor for Health and Human Services Anne Williams-Isom. “Thank you to our interagency partners and to our nonprofit partners for continuing to find new ways that we can work together to work toward our goal of finding every New Yorker a permanent home.”

    The Adams administration will implement a package of reforms to the CityFHEPS city-funded housing voucher program that will make vouchers more widely accessible and easier to use more quickly. As part of this package, the administration is:

    Expanding CityFHEPS eligibility to include single adults working full-time on minimum wage, even if their income is slightly higher than 200 percent of the federal poverty level

    Putting money back in New Yorkers’ pockets by reducing the monthly contribution by CityFHEPS tenants who move into single-room occupancy units from 30 percent of their income to a maximum of $50 per month,

    Supporting working families by reducing the number of hours families are required to work to become eligible for CityFHEPS from 30 to 14 hours per week,

    Covering the cost of apartment application fees for New Yorkers living in New York City Department of Homeless Services shelters,

    Creating an option for CityFHEPS voucher-holders who choose to secure an apartment that rents above the CityFHEPS maximum to utilize a voucher by paying up to 40 percent of their income,

    Expanding Supplemental Security Income eligibility for CityFHEPS families from an adult in the household to any household member, such as a child,

    Piloting a limited bonus equal to one month’s rent for landlords renting to CityFHEPS voucher-holders in high-cost neighborhoods,

    Significantly increasing staffing at the New York City Department of Social Services (DSS) to speed up voucher processing and increase placements,

    Significantly increasing New York City Human Resources Administration staff presence in Housing Court to ensure eligible clients get quick access to financial assistance that will allow them to stay in their homes, and

    Creating consistency across CityFHEPS, Emergency Housing Vouchers (EHV), and the Special One-Time Assistance (SOTA) program by providing a “unit hold” incentive payment equal to one month’s rent for landlords who agree to hold an apartment while an EHV holder or SOTA participant’s materials are processed.

    The implementation process for the benefit enhancements and pilot programs listed above will begin immediately. For the reforms that must be implemented through DSS rulemaking, the process will begin immediately and include legally mandated public hearings.

    The Adams administration’s Street to Housing pilot program creates a direct pathway for New Yorkers experiencing unsheltered homelessness to access permanent supportive housing without having to go through the shelter system.

    This initial pilot will connect up to 80 single adult clients with supportive housing. Once placed in housing, clients will be supported by experienced not-for-profit provider-partner Volunteers of America Greater New York (VOA-GNY) as they complete the application from the very unit that can become their permanent home.

    The post NYC Mayor plans to move the underserved people in streets and shelters to permanent, yet quality housing first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • NYPD’s MOS sends yet another consignment of relief goods to flood victims in Pakistan

    New York: The New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers’ Society (MOS) sent yet another consignment of relief goods to the flood victims in Pakistan.

    The Muslim Officers Society, the representative organization of the Muslim officers of the New York Police Department, has sent another batch of winter aid to the flood victims of Pakistan.

    The relief goods sent include blankets, medicines, dry goods, hygiene kits, and other necessities of life.

    The officials of the Muslim Officers Society are working day and night to deliver relief goods to the flood victims.

    It is relevant to mention here that the officers of the Muslim Officers Society, under the leadership of Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, are ensuring the delivery of relief goods to the victims in the interior Sindh in Pakistan.

    The post NYPD’s MOS sends yet another consignment of relief goods to flood victims in Pakistan first appeared on VOSA.

  • Pakistan’s star singer Atif Aslam mesmerizes fans with his vibrant performance at NYC concert

    New York: Famous Pakistani singer and the king of romantic melodies Atif Aslam performed live at a wonderful concert in New York. The singer mesmerized hundreds of his fans with a vibrant on-stage performance.

    The concert was organized by World Star Entertainment and Atiq Sheikh. A large number of fans and music lovers thronged to the venue to enjoy the magical voice of Atif Aslam.

    Atif Aslam’s wonderful performance on stage made the evening wonderful and memorable for the  jam-packed audience at the concert.

    Atif Aslam presented the songs of legendary Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, Mehdi Hasan, and Lata Mangeshkar in the concert.

    He also recited Natia Kalam and Nasheed on the request of fans on this occasion.

    In Atif Aslam’s famous song ‘Tu Jaane Na’ was greatly enjoyed by audience.

    At the end of the concert, Atif Aslam gave a live performance on the title song of the Pakistani film ‘Bol’ so the fans could not stop applauding him.

    The post Pakistan’s star singer Atif Aslam mesmerizes fans with his vibrant performance at NYC concert first appeared on VOSA.

  • NYPD’s MOS holds an anti-dengue camp in Karachi

    KARACHI: New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers Society (MOS) on Sunday organized an anti-dengue camp in Karachi, in which people were tested free of charge. Mosquito repellents were also provided among the visitors on this occasion.

    A team of medical experts was present to conduct dengue tests.

    In the anti-dengue camp, Karachi Police and the paramilitary Rangers personnel were also tested for dengue, while lotions and sprays were also given to protect them against mosquitoes.

    Officers Sagheer Ahmed and Nauman Malik of the Muslim Officers Society of the New York Police Department assured all possible support for the fight against dengue in Pakistan.

    Social workers of Apna Community Center and Karachi Club of New York said that the dengue tests and prevention campaign were started a month ago, but today’s camp was organized with the support of MOS.

    On behalf of Muslim Officers Society of NYPD, a spray machine was also donated to kill mosquitoes and eliminate their breeding in Karachi city.

    The post NYPD’s MOS holds an anti-dengue camp in Karachi first appeared on VOSA.

  • Youngest Pakistani-American candidate Alisha Khan clinches South Brunswick Board of Education’s slot in US midterm polls

    New York: In a remarkable achievement,  a Pakistani-American candidate Alisha Khan has won the slot of South Brunswick Board of Education, New Jersey in the U.S midterm elections held on Wednesday.

    Alisha Khan also holds the honor of being the youngest candidate in this constituency. She wants improvement for students in the field of education.

    Alisha Khan got the full support of all South Asians including Pakistanis, Indians, and Bangladeshis, apart from Democrats in her county and constituency.

    After her success at South Brunswick, Alisha Khan wants to bring her experience and vision to the School Board of Education to do better for the students.

    The US mid-term elections saw a cut throat contest between the Democrats and the Republicans.

    In the mid-term elections, there was a tough competition between the ruling party Democrats and Republicans for the US House of Representatives and the Senate.

    The post Youngest Pakistani-American candidate Alisha Khan clinches South Brunswick Board of Education’s slot in US midterm polls first appeared on VOSA.

  • IG Sindh seeks help from NYPD’s MOS to reconstruct houses of police officials destroyed by floods

    KARACHI, November 9, 2022: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon on Wednesday urged the New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers Society (MOS) to reconstruct houses of police officials destroyed by the recent ruthless floods in the province.

    Also,  IG Sindh assured the NYPD’s Muslim Officers Society delegation that his department will provide all possible support required in the relief activities.

    NYPD’s Muslim Officers Society’s President Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana along with his delegation called on the provincial police chief in his office.Professional issues were also discussed in the meeting.

    Social figures lieutenant Zagham Abbas, Noman Malik, besides  Aslam Dhillon, Zulfikar Bajwa, and members of the business community were also present in the meeting.

    Adeel Rana informed IG Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon about his visit to Pakistan. He said that his organization has collected a large amount of humanitarian aid with the support of the Muslim community in the United States and that this aid has been distributed to the flood-affected rural areas of Sindh. He said he wanted to distribute humanitarian assistance among the victims in the affected districts of the province.

    IG Sindh brought to the attention of Adeel Rana and his team that the houses of the police personnel were also destroyed in the flood. IG said he wanted the NYPD’s Muslim Officers Society to play its due role in the construction of the houses of the affected police personnel in this relief and rehabilitation work.

    Adeel Rana assured IG Sindh that he will do whatever is possible.

    Finally, IG Sindh presented the shield to MOS President Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana while Adeel Rana presented IG Sindh with cap and badge from New York Police.

    Meanwhile the Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, President of Muslim Officers Society in New York Police Department, met Sindh Minister of Labor and Manpower Saeed Ghani in connection with the rehabilitation of flood victims of Pakistan.

    In the meeting, the government of Sindh appreciated the measures taken so far for the flood victims.

    Saeed Ghani while assuring the delegation of Muslim Officers Society of Sindh government’s full cooperation in the measures taken for the rehabilitation of the flood victims, said that it is very gratifying that the flood victims in the overseas Pakistani country are being fully supported. Determined to play a role.

    The delegation of the New York Police Department’s Muslim Officers Society’s participation in the relief operations is commendable. Our first priority is to restore the lives of the flood victims to normal as soon as possible.

    The post IG Sindh seeks help from NYPD’s MOS to reconstruct houses of police officials destroyed by floods first appeared on VOSA.

  • USAID offers NYPD-MOS its assistance to help Pakistan’s flood victims

    ISLAMABAD: U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has offered its best possible humanitarian assistance to the New York Police Department’s (NYPD’s) Muslim Officers Society (MOS) team which has been engaged in flood relief activities in Pakistan.

    The NYPD-MOS has been in Pakistan for the last week to help the flood victims.

    The Muslim Officers Society team met with the representatives assigned to Pakistan by USAID in a private hotel in Islamabad – the federal capital.

    MOS President and Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana told the USAID representatives that when he appealed for help to Pakistan’s flood victims, not only Pakistanis, but people from different communities came forward and supported his organization in the noble humanitarian cause.

    In this meeting, Adeel informed the USAID that the Turkish Airlines provided full support in delivering relief goods from New York to Pakistan and delivered all the aid to Pakistan free of charge through its cargo service.

    The USAID team was very impressed with the initiatives taken by the Muslim Officer Society team and appreciated their efforts.

    The USAID representatives also offered to the MOS to let them know of any kind of support they would like to receive in flood relief or rehabilitation activities in Pakistan.

    The post USAID offers NYPD-MOS its assistance to help Pakistan’s flood victims first appeared on VOSA.

  • PTI workers demand to conduct free, fair and transparent elections.

    New York:

    PTI USA gathered at Time Square in New York to protest against the gruesome killing of senior journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya and the assassination attempt on party chairman Imran Khan in Gujranwala.

    PTI America President Munir Khatana, senior leader Khursheed Bhalli said that Government is still unable to lodge FIR of attack on Our Leader Imran khan despite after 5 days.

    It is a cause of raising so many questions and doubts because investigation cannot begin until lodge of FIR, The motives of the attack should be brought before the nation, they added.

    A large number of workers participated in the protest, who held the pictures of the deceased Arshad Sharif, their chairman Imran Khan and the party flag in their hands.

    The organizers of the demonstration and General Secretary of Tehreek-e-Insaf USA, Sam Khan, New York President Amjad Nawaz and khawar Baig said that the solution to all the problems faced by the people of Pakistan is only to conduct free and transparent elections immediately.

    On this occasion, the PTI workers also shouted slogans in favor for Imran Kham. They added that the current government does not have public mandate. If transparent elections would conduct, then Imran Khan will be re-elected as Prime Minister.

    We are standing with our captain Imran Khan. No matter how many conspiracies the opponents want, they cannot stop Imran Khan to becoming the Prime Minister again.

    The post PTI workers demand to conduct free, fair and transparent elections. first appeared on VOSA.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • APPAC organizes a charity gala for Pakistan’s flood victims

    New York: The American Pakistani Public Affairs Committee (APPAC) organized a charity gala for Pakistan’s flood victims in Long Island, New York.

    The event was graced by well-known intellectual and humorist Anwar Maqsood and broadcaster Nelofar Abbasi and a large number of Pakistani community and American officials with their presence.

    The charity gala began with the recitation of a few verses of holy Quran.

    Dr. Ijaz Ahmad thanked all the guests for coming. He said that Islam encourages us to help others.

    Anwar Maqsood recalled the time he shared with Moin Akhtar in the conversation. Also recited humorous texts and poetry on this occasion.

    Naheed Bhatti called the help of the flood victims as the first duty. While the Director APPAC Mahmood Alam said that the Pakistani community should help the Pakistani flood victims in their difficult time.

    The guests who participated in the event actively participated in fundraising include Pakistani Consul General in New York Ayesha Ali and others expressed their appreciation for the services of Team APPAC, senior administrators, members and workers for organizing the charity gala.

    New York State Assemblyman Phil Ramos and State Senator Connecticut Saud Anwar termed Chairman APPAC and his team’s philanthropic work a beacon for others.

    On this occasion, Anwar Maqsood was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by APPAC. Saba, wife of Dr. Ijaz Ahmad, administrated the ceremony.

    Phil Ramos presented a cheque of $500,000 to APPAC.

    APPAC took the first practical steps to help the Pakistani flood victims, including visiting the affected areas of Pakistan along with US officials. The efforts of the APPAC still continue.

    The post APPAC organizes a charity gala for Pakistan’s flood victims first appeared on VOSA.

  • NYC council passes a landmark legislation improve equity, inclusion and diversity in the FDNY

     

    NEW YORK: In a major development, New York City Council has passed a landmark legislation to improve equity, inclusion and diversity in the FDNY.

    New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams said: “By passing this package of bills today, we hope to move the FDNY forward to achieving a workforce fully reflective of the diversity of our city,”

    The legislation package requires the FDNY to report on its recruitment and retention efforts of firefighters of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

    The department would also have to survey firehouses and ensure they are equipped to serve a mixed gender workforce.

    The council speaker says currently only 8% of firefighters are Black, 2% are Asian and only 1% are women.

    The post NYC council passes a landmark legislation improve equity, inclusion and diversity in the FDNY first appeared on VOSA.

  • Assassination attempt on Imran Khan, the Ex-Pakistan PM shot and wounded at his anti-government long-march

    GUJRANWALA: Former Pakistani Prime Minister and Chairman of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Imran Khan was shot and wounded in the leg, in an attack on his protest march in Gujranwala, in the country’s Punjab province.

    One of Khan’s supporters was killed in the shooting in Wazirabad, officials said. Several leaders of PTI were also injured.

    Imran Khan was leading his party’s anti-government long march toward Islamabad from Lahore for the country’s “real independence”

    Khan is actively mobilizing the masses since his government was ousted through a parliamentary no-confidence move a few months back. However, he has adopted a clear stance and alleged that his government was toppled through an international conspiracy, facilitated by local players. According to Khan, the incumbent PML-N-led coalition government of the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was installed under the same international conspiracy.

    PTI senior leader Senator Faisal Javed, who was injured when a bullet grazed his face, said that a party worker was killed during the attack, while another was severely injured. No group has claimed responsibility for the attack on 70-year-old cricketer-turned-politician.

    Police released a video confession of a man they arrested who they say had attempted to kill the former prime minister. It was unclear under what conditions the interview was carried out but in it the man is asked by police why he opened fire, and replies: “He was misguiding the people. I wanted to kill him. I tried to kill him.”

    The head of Shaukat Khanum Memorial Hospital has said Khan is in stable conditions and conscious. Speaking to reporters, Faisal Sultan said there were bullet fragments in the PTI leader’s leg and his tibia bone was chipped. “This is only the initial assessment, and we are taking him to the operation theatre for detailed evaluation,” he said. Sultan added that a four-member medical board had been formed to monitor and evaluate Khan’s health.

    Pakistan’s President Arif Alvi called the attack on Imran Khan a “heinous assassination attempt”. “I thank Allah that he is safe but injured with few bullets in his leg & hopefully non-critical,” he tweeted.

    Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack and said: “I strongly condemn the firing at Imran Khan’s rally. An immediate report of the incident has been sought from the Interior Minister. We pray for the speedy recovery of Imran and other injured. The Federation will provide all possible support to the Punjab government in the security/investigation of the incident. Violence should have no place in national politics,”

    Foreign Minister and Pakistan Peoples Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari “strongly condemned” the attack on Imran Khan and prayed for his swift recovery.

    Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said the attack on Khan and his supporters was “completely unacceptable.” “I strongly condemn this violence. It has no place in politics, in any democracy, or in our society,” he said. “I’m wishing a speedy recovery to Imran and all who were injured today.”

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • The outcome of NYC polls to affect the future of New Yorkers

    New York: New York City Election is going to take place on Tuesday, November 8th. This election is dubbed as ‘critical’ and the ‘last’ chance to join millions of New Yorkers in making their voices heard and cast their ballots. The outcome of these elections will affect the future of New Yorkers, their economy, education, healthcare, and more.

    The polls will be open from 6:00 am to9:00 pm. People who can’t vote on Tuesday can also vote early in person! Early voting polls will be open through Sunday, November 6th, as per the NYC government. Your poll site may have changed, so it’s important to check your poll site location and its hours before you vote at nycvotes.org.

    This year, voting is more important than ever. In every single race, your vote matters – from the Governor and Attorney General to your Congress people and state representatives. We’re deciding who will lead the state into the future, and what kind of future New Yorkers want for our state. Also, four ballot proposals are on the back of your ballot, so remember to flip yours over. All U.S. citizens aged 18 and older who have registered are eligible to vote. Millions of New Yorkers in going to the polls and getting the change they want to see done. Those who are not currently registered to vote can register for next year’s election on that website as well. All New Yorkers have the right to vote in their language. You may bring an interpreter to the voting booth—it can be a friend, a family member or a poll worker, but it can’t be your employer or union representative.

    The Civic Engagement Commission has said that it will be providing interpretation services in select languages and poll sites on Saturday, November 5th, and Sunday, November 6th, and on Election Day, Tuesday, November 8th. Our democracy relies on individuals with different opinions coming together to find solutions. Voting is one crucial way we do this, and having discussions with each other is another. Recently, the Administration held a summit on criminal justice. It brought experienced defense lawyers, judges, district attorneys, advocates, and law enforcement officials together in search of solutions to a goal we all share: keeping New Yorkers safe and ensuring justice for all. There is a lot that this group disagrees on, and each individual groups will keep pursuing their individual goals.

    But there is also much we agree on. Both public safety and justice are prerequisites to prosperity, and we need to do a better job on both. No one should be afraid of crime on the subway, and no one accused of committing a crime should have to wait for months to get a hearing. The discussion helped participants find common ground on important improvements to the system, and over the coming weeks and months, more conversations and turning are expected for actionable solutions that will make New York a safer city. Working toward a more perfect city and country is never easy. It takes all of us engaging in good faith conversation, expressing our views, and casting our ballots. See you at the polls on Tuesday.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • President Arif Alvi recognizes invaluable contributions of overseas Pakistanis

    ISLAMABAD: President of Pakistan Dr. Arif Alvi on Wednesday said that an economically and morally strong nation can put the country on the path of progress and prosperity.    

    “We as a nation should make the most of our skilled human resource to enhance our economy and social wellbeing,” the president said while addressing as the chief guest at a reception organized in honor of the overseas Pakistanis at a local hotel in the federal capital – Islamabad.

    The event was organized by the Welfare Society for Overseas Pakistanis’ Rights in recognition of great services rendered by overseas Pakistanis for their country.

    The president asked people to empower the youth on their fields of expertise so that they can contribute their part to the development of the country.

    On this occasion, Adeel Rana, the President of the New York City Police Department’s Muslim Officers Society (NYPD-MOS) was awarded an appreciation shield in recognition of his great services toward Pakistani Americans in NYC. Whereas, Anwar Aman, Arif Kasana, Arif Muzaffar Mansoori, Athar Anees, Atif Iqbal Khan, and others overseas were also given awards for their valued services to overseas Pakistanis.

    Adeel Rana while addressing the event said it was an honor for him to be part of this award distribution ceremony.

    He said overseas have been doing a phenomenal work. A large number of Pakistani youth need supervision and guidelines to thrive in their professions in future. “Our priority is to work for the youth to progress in various fields of life,” he said.

    Chairman Welfare Society for Overseas Pakistanis’ Rights Dawood Ghaznavi on this occasion said that for the first time we are acknowledging the services and progress of overseas Pakistanis here and urged the people to encourage the Pakisani diaspora so that they can work hard and contribute their part in the enhancement of Pakistan’s GDP and economy.

    Meanwhile, the overseas Pakistanis said they are doing hard work to earn money for their families at home and their remittances are also supporting and strengthening the national economy.

    As many as 10 million Pakistanis are currently living at various parts of the world including the US, and they are the ambassadors of Pakistan is real sense.

    A large number of overseas Pakistanis including the Director North America Imran Agra attended the event.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • W2W Forum organizes fundraising event for Pakistan’s flood victims in New Jersey.

    New Jersey: The Women to Women Forum (W2W) in collaboration with the Comprehensive Disaster Response Service (CDRS), organized a grand fundraising event for Pakistan’s flood victims at a community hall in Paterson, New Jersey.

    The prominent personalities of the community participated in the event in large numbers.

    On this occasion, Nusrat Sohail, Chairperson of the Women to Women Forum, appreciated the humanitarian aid activities of CDRS.

    Musical program was also arranged for the invited guests in the ceremony.

    Addressing the participants, the head of CDRS and the professionals involved in various activities with them shared their experiences and described the flood-hit villages of Pakistan.

    Attendees at the fund-raising event were also shown a short documentary film based on the flood-affected areas of Pakistan and the hardships faced by displaced families.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • PTI NYC chapter holds demo against the ‘murder’ of Journalist Arshad Sharif in Kenya

    New York: Workers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf America chapter staged a protest demonstration at Time Square in New York to denounce the brutal killing of senior journalist Arshad Sharif in Kynia.

    The participants demanded that justice be provided to Arshad Sharif’s heirs.

    They were holding banners, placards and candles.

    The demonstration was led by senior PTI New York leader Khurshid Bhali.

    On this occasion, Khursheed Bhali and others said that the killing of Arshad Sharif is not just a journalist but the killing of the voice of truth.

    A transparent and independent inquiry into the murder of Arshad Sharief should be completed as soon as possible.


    A large number of youth, men and women participated in the demonstration.

    The participants also carried Arshad Sharief’s photos and  banners inscribed with slogans seeking justice for Sharif.

    On this occasion, Pakistani American women said that senior journalist Arshad Sharief was killed for telling the truth.

    We will not remain silent until the elements and murderers involved in the conspiracy to kill Arshad Sharief are punished and brought to the task.

    The protesters said that this is not their first and last protest.

    We demand the government of Pakistan to provide justice to the family members of senior journalist Arshad Sharief with immediate effect.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Theater ‘Virus Bomb’ artistically depicts human agony faced during Covid-19 pandemic.

    New York: Prominent Pakistani-American poet and playwright Mumtaz Hussain’s unique theater titled: ‘Virus Bomb’ is being screened in New York, which is vividly and artistically depicting human agony faced during Covid-19 pandemic.

    The play is also highlighting conspiracy theories and preferences of politicians and capitalists towards the global pandemic – covid-19.

    The income from this theater will be donated to the flood victims in Pakistan.

    The Virus Bomb is primarily highlights the effects of the Corona pandemic on human life, which is currently being played in a local theater in New York.

    The central character of the play is a pregnant woman Kerin has lost her 12-year-old son and her husband to the Alone-a-virus. Now she must save the son who rests in her womb. She goes to the United Nations headquarters in New York to present her case.

    Kerin presents her case to the United Nations Security Council for justice that a conspiratorial group has spread the virus through bats, where she receives the answer that you should present your case to the to the International Court of Justice.

    Kerin takes her case to the International Court of Justice and says that this virus has been created for the destruction of humans. Here comes a character of Dracula in the play who believes that all bats are not dangerous to humans, this virus is spread by capitalists who can go to any extent to increase their wealth.

    In the closing scenes of the theater, the plaintiff, the pregnant woman, Kerin, is in severe labor pain and as she runs for help, her foot unconsciously hits the button of a bomb placed on the steps of the courthouse.

    Now if she moves her foot back, the bomb will explode. Mumtaz Hussain, the writer of this play, says that Corona is over, but the aftershocks of this virus have caused more damage to the world.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Pak-Americans want from NYC govt more schools, parkts from ‘Peoples’ Money Project’

    New York: Pakistani Americans living in New York have suggested to the city government that more schools and parks should be built at the regional level from the new budget.

    The New York City government wants all communities to be represented in government departments and encourages its citizens to tell the government where the budget should be spent this time and on what projects.

    Apna Community Center, located in Brighton Beach, Brooklyn, organized the 3rd session to inform Pakistani Americans and convey their views to the government.

    Apna’s CEO Iram Hanif said that in order to deliver recommendations for our demands to the city government, it is important that we all participate fully in this campaign.

    A large number of men and women of the community participated in the awareness session.

    The attendees also explained the problems faced by the community in this session.

    The team of Apna Community Center informed the participants about the activities of their organization and various projects of the city.

    The community members conveyed this message to the government to provide them with jobs in civic departments and to establish institutes for various training courses.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Pakistani and Kashmiri community marks Black Day, holds protests across the U.S

    New York: On the completion of 75 years of Indian illegal occupation on Kashmir, the Pakistani and Kashmiri community marked Black Day, with holding protest demonstrations at parts of US including the capital Washington, and New York.

    The protests were digitally recorded by trucks and floats on the streets of the capital Washington, Houston, Chicago, and especially outside the UN headquarters and the Indian consulate in New York.

    Through pictures on trucks and various vehicles, the brutality of the Indian army on the innocent Kashmiris in Occupied Kashmir was exposed. On the other hand, in New York, the Pakistani and Kashmiri community protested at Time Square.

    The participants of the demonstration were carrying banners, playing sticks and the Kashmiri flag in their hands.

    The representatives of different political parties participating in the protest said that India cannot suppress the struggle for freedom of Kashmiris with the force of oppression. They stressed: “We have to play our role to solve the Kashmir problem.”

    Candles were also lit in the memory of Kashmiri martyrs in the protest held on Black Day.

    Meanwhile Consul General of Pakistan in New York Ayesha Ali has said that until Kashmiris get their right to self-determination, Pakistan will continue its diplomatic and moral support at all levels.

    She was addressing a function organized on the occasion of Black Day at the consulate.

    On the completion of 75 years of India’s illegal occupation of Kashmir, the Black Day ceremony was held at the Pakistani Consulate in New York.

    Later on, the Consul General Ayesha Ali and Deputy Consul General Nawab Adil Khan read the policy statement regarding the support of Occupied Kashmiris. They said that Pakistani nation has always extended its unwavering support for the innocent Kashmiris.

    A large number of political, social and business personalities of the Pakistani American and Kashmiri community participated in the event.

    On this occasion, Colonel Retired Maqbool Malik described what he witnessed in the wars fought with India in the past.

    He said that if he gets life not once but many times, he will sacrifice his life for the freedom of Kashmir.

    The participants of the event reiterated their determination that they will not leave the oppressed Kashmiri brothers alone in this struggle of freedom. A documentary film was also shown on this occasion.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Awareness of rights, legal procedure is a must to prevent women from domestic violence: NYC Council member Farah Louis

    New York: New York City Council member Farah Louis has said that in order to prevent domestic violence, it is important to educate women more about their rights and legal processes.

    She was addressing an awareness session organized by Pakistani American Skilled Women Organization in collaboration with other organizations on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, New York.

    The event began with the recitation of a few verses of the Holy Quran.

    Women of Pakistani American community, American officials and police officers of 60th precincts also participated in the session.

    Addressing the participants, Councilwoman Farah Louis said that she herself has been a victim of domestic violence.

    She said the domestic violence victims should raise their voice against the crime and they must not keep mum over this grim issue.

    Representatives of the District Attorney’s Office of Brooklyn Borough and other officials informed the women participants about their rights and legal procedures.

     

    They said that domestic violence does not only include physical torture, but also sexual harassment, speaking ill of women, and threatening is also a violation of the law.

    In an address to the participants, the chairperson of Pakistani American Skilled Women Atia Shahnaz said that domestic violence is not largely considered a violation of right in the South Asian community.

    But what is more worrying is that the majority of women who are victims of domestic violence are forced to accept the situation and never file a complaint.

    On this occasion, the police officers of 60th precincts informed the women about the complaint procedure in case of domestic violence.

    The women who participated in the session said that after attending the session, they got very useful information about their social and legal rights; they will try to inform other women around them about this.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • Mayor Eric Adams hosts a Diwali celebration at Gracie Mansion

    New York: New York City Mayor Eric Leroy Adams has said that at a time when communities are plagued by the menace of hate and crimes, people must come forward and act as beacons of light to make this world a better place to live.

    He was addressing a Diwali function, held at his official residence Gracie Mansion, where a large number of the South Asian community people participated.

    The Hindu community around the world is celebrating the religious festival of Diwali with enthusiasm.

    Diwali festival is known as the festival of lights and its traditional colors can be seen in the US as well.

    Eric Adams greeted a large gathering of leading members of the Indian-American, South Asian, and other communities at the Diwali event.

    Speaking at the event, Mayor Eric Adams said, “It’s time for us to sit down and talk, to push back hate crimes against Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, Sikhs and all other groups that live in this city.”

    Diwali is especially worshiped to ‘Lakshmi’ who is considered as the goddess of auspiciousness, according to Hindu belief.

    The festival celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil. Mayor Eric Adams also attended the Diwali Puja.

    South Asian community including Muslim police officers participated in Diwali ceremony in large numbers.

  • Phool Patti to showcase Pakistan’s rich heritage through truck-art during FIFA World Cup 2022 in Doha

    DOHA: Phool Patti – a social enterprise and entrepreneur project is all set to showcase Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage through ‘truck art’ during the FIFA World Cup-2022 in Qatar, as millions of football lovers across the globe will visit Doha to watch the high profile event in November.

    As per details, on invitation from the Qatar museum to enter into an official partnership with Jedariart, a 2022 focal program in Doha, the Phool Patti team, comprised of its founder/Creative Director Ali Salman Anchan, Mumtaz Ahmad and Muhammad Amin, unveiled an awe-inspiring mural to the delight of everyone who has had the opportunity to see it.

    The truck art mural was completed just ahead of the FIFA World Cup. The best part is the timing of this project as millions of people will witness the marvelous truck art murals — a beautiful and vibrantly colored style of art.

    The mural size is around 23×33 feet and painted at Al Mansoura metro Station # 1 Doha.

    This truck art mural features typical depictions including peacocks, falcons, Chakoor, jasmine, and rose flowers.

    The mural also features the Qatar desert and the Pakistani northern area mountains, and other important Pakistani elements.  The bottom of the mural which is highlighted with the truck art famous line “Dekh Magar Pyaar Say” (Look but only with Love) in Urdu and in English is complimented by the top portion which states “Qatar Pakistan Friendship” encircled in English and Urdu.

    In addition to completing this truck mural masterpiece, Phool Patti was invited by Qatar Museum to speak about truck art at the fire station art gallery.

    Anchan explained Pakistan’s world famous and unique truck art to the attendees. Phool Patti impressed the crowds with its success story and all of its project’s achievements.

    An Indian participant from all India permit explained how they are trying to revive their art in India they also painted murals in typography which they use on some of their trucks.

    Ali Salman Anchan said the best part of Jedariart is the Pakistani truck art mural and the Indian Truck Mural is painted side-by-side and people can actually get a better idea of both countries’ truck art.

    This comparison needs no words to explain why Pakistan truck art is famous and why everyone loves it. Very positive feedback has been seen from people from every walk of life from all over Doha. also thank to the Qatar Museum for beautiful oppunitines

    The Jedari Art program is an annual event that Qatar Museum organizes to add more life and color to the city, through well-designed murals and street art.

    The Phool Patti team is promoting the unique and vibrant Pakistani Truck Art globally.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • New York City establishes Racial Justice Commission to ensure equity

    New York: New York City has established a Racial Justice Commission to eliminate racial discrimination (if any) and ensure the provision of equal rights to all. 

    Voters in the community eligible to cast votes will have to respond to three questions mentioned on the back of the ballot paper in next month’s New York City General elections so that the NYC charter could be amended in the larger interest of its dwellers. The amendment will remain effective for a period of two years.

    The New York City government wants the diverse communities living in the City to be given equal importance in all government departments and sectors, and the law needs to be amended to implement the same.

    The city government has recently set up a Commission for Racial Justice which will collate the opinions, suggestions, and recommendations of various communities and provide them to the government for amending the law.

    The commission has asked each voter three questions on the back of the ballot paper in the election to be held on November 8.

    The 1st Ballot Question will be: Add a Statement of Values to Guide Government. This proposal would amend the New York City Charter: Add a preamble, which would be an introductory statement of values and vision aspiring toward “a just and equitable city for all” New Yorkers; and Include in the preamble a statement that the City must strive to remedy “past and continuing harms and to reconstruct, revise, and reimagine our foundations, structures, institutions, and laws to promote justice and equity for all New Yorkers.”The preamble is intended to guide City government in fulfilling its duties. Shall this proposal be adopted?

    The question No-2 will be about  the establishment of a Racial Equity Office, Plan, and Commission. This proposal would amend the City Charter to: Require citywide and agency-specific Racial Equity Plans every two years. The plans would include intended strategies and goals to improve racial equity and to reduce or eliminate racial disparities; Establish an Office of Racial Equity and appoint a Chief Equity Officer to advance racial equity and coordinate the City’s racial equity planning process. The Office would support City agencies in improving access to City services and programs for those people and communities who have been negatively affected by previous policies or actions, and collect and report data related to equity; and Establish a Commission on Racial Equity, appointed by City elected officials. In making appointments to this Commission, elected officials would be required to consider appointees who are representative of or have experience advocating for a diverse range of communities. The Commission would identify and propose priorities to inform the racial equity planning process and review agency and citywide Racial Equity Plans. Shall this proposal be adopted?

    The question No-3 will be about Measuring the True Cost of Living.This proposal would amend the City Charter to: Require the City to create a “true cost of living” measure to track the actual cost in New York City of meeting essential needs, including housing, food, childcare, transportation, and other necessary costs, and without considering public, private, or informal assistance, in order to inform programmatic and policy decisions; and Require the City government to report annually on the “true cost of living” measure. Shall this proposal be adopted?

    Meanwhile the Apna community center is organizing various sessions to guide the Pakistani community living in New York in this regard, where registered voters from the community are being told how to answer the questions asked on the back of the ballot paper on polling day.

    If Pakistani American voters want to take any help, they can visit the link provided by Apna Community Center and assure the city government that they, as Pakistani American voters, will give better suggestions to amend the law on polling day.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.

  • ICLI’s Young Scouts pay tribute to Muslim veteran heroes in recognition of their services in U.S forces

    New York: A group of Young Scouts at the Islamic Center of Long Island (ICLI) paid tribute to Muslims in recognition of their valued services in the armed forces, and other important departments of the United States (U.S). 

    The grand event was well-attended by people belonging to different walks of life. Muslim officers serving in the US forces were also part of the event.

    President of the Islamic Center of Long Island, Habib Ahmed administrated the ceremony. Habib Ahmed, not only highlighted the services of veterans but described the event as a good omen for Muslims in America.

    The guests who participated in the event expressed their views not only by appreciating the services of Muslims but also by praising the role of Muslims in the development of America.

    Vice President of Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Flag, Fred Nielsen while talking to VOSA TV informed about the details of the event while calling it a good practice.

    A member of the Boy Scouts of America said that it is a good tradition to pay tribute to veterans

    US Army Sergeant Retd Faisal Farooqui was presented with the Shield of Honor by Boy Scouts of America. They also expressed their gratitude.

    Deputy Inspector Adeel Rana, President of the New York Police Department’s Muslim Officers’ Society (NYPD-MOS) was also honored with the award. He thanked the organizers of the event for the acknowledgement and recognition.

    The services of Muslims in the armed forces were praised by the youth of America.

    This post was originally published on VOSA.