The Somasundarams (சோமசுந்தரம்) Blog

Wimse Tour of the Facility

2012-01-24T16:00:00.000-05:00

WIMSE tour of the XRF

Tuesday, Jan 24, 2012

X-Ray Facility

Kasha Lab

This afternoon a group of young women who are part of the Women in Mathematics Science and Engineering (wimse.fsu.edu) visited my lab on the fourth floor of Kasha Building. Originally they were scheduled visit my lab in mid March. But due to some change of schedule they came to the lab today.

The tour began with a 8 minute slide presentation in the seminar room where I explained what we do at the macro molecular x-ray diffraction facility. The tour then continued on the fourth floor where the under grad students saw the crystal room, cold room, control room and the generator room. I showed them how a crystal will be grown, transferred to a rayon loop and flash-cooled on a nitrogen stream and data collected.

ACT Thank You Party

2012-01-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

ACT Thank You Party

Saturday, Jan 21, 2012

The Globe

110 S Woodward Avenue

On Saturday afternoon we organized the ACT Thank You Party! This has been the tradition for the last few years for the Asian Coalition of Tallahassee. To say thanks to all the volunteers, performers, members, and executive committee and their families, ACT throws a party either in late November or in early January. The early January party has been the norm for the last few years as we find it very difficult to gather people in late November or December. This is because of the Thanksgiving Holiday break, Winter Holidays for the students, and the Christmas break.

This year like last year we held the program at The Globe in the Center for Global Engagement and Multicultural center at 110 S. Woodward Avenue. We had ordered food from Indian, Japanese, Chinese, and other restaurants. About 100 people gathered around 3 PM. Clyde and I spoke about the importance of volunteers, performers, and executive committee at the party. Around 3:45 PM the entertainment part started. The featured performers were from various groups.

The Hindu : States / Tamil Nadu : South India shivers as mercury dips below normal

2012-01-18T16:11:00.000-05:00

The Hindu : States / Tamil Nadu : South India shivers as mercury dips below normal

Happy New Year 2012

2012-01-01T00:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year 2012

Celebrate in East coast time in the US

Sat/Sun, 12/31/2011 to 01/01/2012

Tallahassee, FL

Usually by this time I am fast asleep. I have a reputation to keep as most Indians in Tallahassee (at least those who know me) know that I go to bed very early, say by 9:45 PM. So it was unusual that I stayed up until the midnight Saturday.

VTS and our neighbor's kid wanted to celebrate the dropping of the ball at Times Square in New York. With GS fast asleep, I thought I will give company to the kids. They were noisy, anyway. So you see above the picture of us celebrating by jumping up and down. One kid is on the floor.

Hopefully, this will NOT set a precedence and I will be fast asleep when 2013 comes around. Happy New Year 2012 to all those who are awake.

NHM Writer and McAfee Anti-Virus incompatiblity

2011-12-28T13:42:00.002-05:00

NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 Beta from New Horizon Media (Free)

McAfee Anti-Virus Problem

Incompatibility issue of free(and nice) software from New Horizon Media NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 and McAfeeanti-virus suite

NHM Writer		Free version 1.5.1.1 release date of 06/01/2009 - 18:23
Anti-virus		McAfee Anti-Virus VirusScan Enterprise 8.7.0i; Scan Engine Version (64 bit) 5400.1158; DAT version 6572.0000 dated Dec 27, 2011 and possibly even lower versions dating back to early November 2011
Problem	McAfee’s VirusScan Enterprise 8.7.0i suite and NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 are incompatible; Removes NHMx.dll as Trojan horse
Date	Mid November 2011 onwards		No problem with Norton Anti-virus 5.1.0.29 version

General Description
I have been using NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 Beta since 2008-09. This free software from New Horizon Media in Chennai, India for Indian Languages has been very useful for me and my friends to type in Tamil, Hindi, and other Indian languages using Microsoft Office Suite (2003, 2007, 2010) in Windows XP (Vista, Windows 7 32-bit and 64-bit) onwards. This software allows one to type Unicode Tamil, Hindi, and other Indian languages by simply running the program in the background and selecting a special key combination like “Alt+2” for “Tamil Phonetic” and “Alt+3” for “Malayalam Inscript”, etc. For Indians living abroad this is great tool to continue to maintain touch with our native languages, communicate with elders in their native tongue, and teach children born in non-Indian language speaking countries their mother language. So along with eKallappai and Murasu Anjal NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 and NHM Converter have been great resource and help.
PRoblem
Since sometime around early November 2011 or so, the NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 has stopped working in several of my Windows computers. I could not select the languages by issuing the special key combo, for example, “Alt+2” reserved for “Phonetic Tamil”. Typically the gray “Bell” symbol in the system tray normally will turn yellow in color when I issue one of the key combos. Depending upon the underlying key combo I will be able to type Tamil, Malayalam, or Hindi. This stopped happening in Nov 2011. To make the matters worse, even I manually selected the language, the Unicode languages did not appear, and instead only English characters appeared. At first it puzzled me since several of my other computers still allowed me to use the software.
Observations
Problems with McAfee When I tried to reinstall the program, I got a Trojan Horse virus warning from my McAfee VirusScan Suite and that prevented me installing the software altogether. The only way I could install was disabling “Access Protection” and “On-Access Scan Disabling”. Even after installation with these bad anti-virus disables, I could not get the software to run since as soon as McAfee was enabled it will go ahead and delete NHMx.dll file. This made the NHM Writer to stop working. The error messages I got were “is-LJ372.tmp” is deleted with “Trojan Horse” detection as “Generic-FADE!7AA18D11D0E”! I could not figure out how to solve this problem. Uninstall and reinstall didn’t help (even after complete uninstall using RevoUninstaller and restart didn’t help). So I use eKallappai in these computers. No problems with Norton Anti Virus Suite As I mentioned above all the computers that I have running Norton Anti-Virus software (as of Dec 27, 2011) were NOT affected by this problem. So I have Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7 (32- and 64-bit) that are running Microsoft Office 2003, 2007, and 2010 with Norton Anti-Virus is not affected. So I use in these computers NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 successfully. Any suggestions? If you have suggestions to help solve the problem contact me at somabhanu@gmail.com. Thanks. As I mentioned this is McAfee only problem and Norton Anti-Virus allowed it to work properly.

Second Degree Brown Belt

2011-12-15T16:30:00.000-05:00

Second Degree Brown Belt

Thursday, Dec 15, 2011

Tiger-Rock Tallahassee Tae Kwan Doe

VS graduated from the first degree brown belt to second degree brown belt. The belt testing was done last week and the belt awarding ceremony was held today evening at the Tallahassee Tiger-Rock Martial Arts Tae Kwan Do Academy.

There were several belt awarding ceremonies this evening, starting with Tiger Cubs, and younger kids. Finally around 7:40 PM the older and higher level belt ceremony began.

The event took about an hour from start to finish. There were announcements, distribution of star sheets to students who have done well both in the academics and Tae Kwan Doe. Finally VS and other six or students were awarded their brown belts.

Frontiers in Macromolecular Imaging

2011-12-03T14:05:00.001-05:00

Frontiers in Macromolecular Imaging
Florida State University Conference Center
Dec 1-3, 2011
Tallahassee, FL 32306

I attended the Frontiers in Macromolecular Imaging.

Dec 1, 2011 12 Noon to 5 PM

During this time we had an open house at the new microscope room. Several local students who were studying biology, chemistry, and other allied subjects stopped by the new microscope and other microscope rooms. The microscope faculty and staff took turns in showing them around all the equipment, methods, and gadgets.

Then scores of visitors from outside Tallahassee and FSU were brought to the open house. All of them were able to see the microscopes collect and process data while they were looking at the microscope. We had opened the microscope's outer shield little bit so that they can look inside.

Dec 1, 2011 6-9 PM

Then in the evening at the Florida State Conference Center (aka Turnbull Center) the opening ceremony was held. Ken welcomed everyone to the meeting. Then the Dean spoke about the importance of the research being conducted at allied areas. Then the major speaker of the day Bob spoke.

GS 300

2011-11-23T17:04:00.001-05:00

2003 Lexus GS 300

Wednesday, Nov 23, 2011

4 PM

We got a GS 300 this afternoon. We bought an used 2003 Lexus GS 300 from a single owner. The couple drove the car to and fro for very short distances for several years and therefore the total mileage was very low. Since it was a single owner car we were happy to see that it was well kept (dealer maintained and repaired).

Since it was a private sale the price we paid was a good deal both for us and the seller.

Talk about 11-11-11

2011-11-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

Talk about 11-11-11

Friday, 11/11/11

Tallahassee, FL

Talk about the luck of 11/11/11. There was another 11:11AM on 11/11/11. I don't know about other people's luck. Generally I don't believe in the numerology stuff. But today was NOT a lucky day but not a bad day.

My car gave me trouble. I couldn't get to see the Veterans' Day parade or go to my friends house. Anyway, it is all part of the life both good luck and bad luck.

Cultural Glimpses of India 2011

2011-11-05T21:40:00.000-04:00

Cultural Glimpses of India 2011

Saturday, November 05, 2011

Lawton Chiles High School Auditorium

Tallahassee, FL 32308

The fourteenth Cultural Glimpses of India 2011 was held on Saturday, November 05, 2011 at Lawton Chiles High School auditorium between 4:30 and 8:30 PM. This was the final major event for me as a President of India Association of Tallahassee.

This year we had planned the event differently than last few years guided mostly from what worked and what didn't work. We started the program at 4:30 PM to give extra time for the kids participating in the math competition to join. We scrapped any rehearsals on the day of the program thereby giving the Executive Committee plenty of time to do things for the event rather worrying about the rehearsals. We had requested everyone not to come to auditorium until 3:00 PM.

We have published the Program Schedule ahead of time and communicated it to performers, participants and sponsors. We also marked off four rows of front seats for sponsors. We have moved the performers' rows to the back of the auditorium so that they will not crowd the front stage. We informed the sponsors when they will appear on stage and even told them which time slot they will be on stage.

The program started smoothly at 4:30 PM sharp. I introduced my team and introduced the new team. Then we invited the chief guest and finally introduced all the coordinators. By the time thirteenth item (with two sponsor breaks) it was already 6:30 PM. The second half started at 7 PM and with two sponsor breaks and vote of thanks and another twelve items later the program concluded nicely at 8:30 PM. There was one glitch with music and there were two repeat performances.

Overall, I felt we did an excellent job. The membership status was highest level. The sponsorships were at highest levels and the number performers and items were also the highest levels.

Eastside Branch Library Opening

2011-11-03T16:44:00.002-04:00

Eastside Branch Library Grand Opening

1583 Pedrick Road

Tallahassee, FL 32317

Thursday, Nov 3, 2011 4:400 PM

On a fine autumn day around 4:10 PM in the parking lot of the new Eastside Branch Library the Grand Opening function started.

The welcome message was delivered by Mr Vincent Long, Leon County Administrator. Following him, the Chairman of Leon County Commission Mr Dailey delivered the opening remarks followed by Kristen Dozier and others.

Then Cay Hohmeister, Leon County Library Director spoke about the Eastside Branch, introduced the staff, explained the amenities and told about all the programs and projects. Then couple of Construction Managers and Contractors spoke about the unique LEED design of the building and mentioned that the building was constructed to mimic the local area (similar to Mission San Luis).

Then around 4:40 PM we entered the Eastside Branch Library. It was really nicely constructed with lots of space and quite areas.

There were some light refreshments and drinks. We met lots of friends in the library. We stayed until 5:45 PM and got home.

WFSU Radio Fall Pledge Drive

2011-10-17T17:37:00.000-04:00

WFSU Radio Fall Pledge Drive

Monday, October 17, 2011

2:00 to 4:00 PM

WFSU (88.9 FM) Radio

Our on-air request

On Monday, October 17, 2011 afternoon around 1:35 PM I arrived at 1600 Red Barber Plaza and met the pledge coordinator. She was kind enough to show me the script the procedure and the details of being an on-air host. Then I met the Pledge Director and the audio engineer. They explained more details about the 2 hour slot.

Today afternoon I debuted my first ever WFSU 88.9 FM (local NPR) Radio Fall pledge drive. My co-host Bonnie Fowler of Armor Realty and I were able to get 21 new or renewing members during our 2 hour slot. Our goal was around 26. This was possible because of supporters from India Association of Tallahassee, Asian Coalition of Tallahassee, Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Dept of Biology, Leon County Public Library East side branch.

Bonnie and I are proud to have friends like those who supported our local radio station. Once again I would like to thank all of you for your support of WFSU. Thanks.

2011-12 American Heart Walk Big Bend - Team Life Sciences

2011-10-15T12:01:00.000-04:00

2011-12 American Heart Walk Leon (Big Bend), Florida

Team Life Sciences

Saturday, October 15, 2011

10:00 to 11:00 AM

Tom Brown Park

Today I joined the Team Life Sciences from Institute of Molecular Biophysics, Biology, and Chemistry & Biochemistry students, post-docs, staff, and faculty in the 2011-12 American Heart Walk Leon (Big Bend), Florida. Earlier years I wanted to participate but couldn't make it due to other event conflicted with the time. But this year I wanted to walk for my father who has had some issues related to his heart.

I arrived at Tom Brown Park bit late since I was running an errand. By the time I started at 10:00 AM, my team has already walked several yards. So I took big strides and caught up with them around American Red Cross building (1/4th the way).

There were about dozen people and we walked along the Easterwood Drive, then on Weems Road, and finally the Goose Pond Trail before reaching the starting point at the Picnic Table #13. By the time we finished it was around 10:45 AM. Assuming it takes about 18 minutes to walk a mile, the total distance would be close to 2 1/2 miles.

I met several friends including Elizabeth. I wrote my dad's name on the Victory Wall before I went home to do other errands.

7th Annual Experience Asia 2011

2011-10-08T20:23:00.000-04:00

7th Annual Experience Asia 2011

Saturday, October 08, 2011, 10 AM to 5 PM

Lewis and Bloxham Park

Downtown Tallahassee

Tallahassee, Florida

We participated in the 7th Annual Experience Asia Festival organized by the Asian Coalition of Tallahassee. I went early in the morning to set up the IATLH booth first. Then at 10 AM on the main stage on Lewis Park (the preforming stage) India Association of Tallahassee's members started the program with Indian national anthem (instrumental piece) followed by several group songs.

We distributed information about IATLH and helped kids color pictures of Indian national animal tiger, national flower lotus, national bird peacock, and pictures of elephant and children in traditional Indian attire. We also gave out free of charge bracelet and bhindi for kids.

We answered the questions of Girls Scouts of Big Bend about India. Members of EC of IATLH and others helped us out at the booth.

The featured performance was by Matsuriza, the Japanese taikko drummers from Orlando, Florida. We had slight shower just before the closing performance by Matsuriza.

Cirque Du Soleil

2011-10-02T15:45:00.000-04:00

Cirque Du Soleil

Tallahassee Civic Center

Sunday, October 02, 2011

1:00 PM Performance of Dralion

Tallahassee, FL 32301

We went to watch the traveling show of Dralion (a mash-up of Dragon, representing East and Lion representing West) performance by the Canadian circus company Cirque Du Soleil. We had bought the ticket for the Sunday afternoon 1 PM show which would be the last but one show the traveling circus will be performing in Tallahassee. They have been in town since Thursday, September 28, 2011. We bought the $45+tax tickets and were seated in the right hand side (w.r.t to the performance stage) on section R in the Leon County Civic Center.

Spanish National Honor Society Induction

2011-09-21T21:56:00.000-04:00

Spanish National Honor Society Induction Ceremony

Jarabe de Palo Chapter

Lincoln High School

Wed, Sep 21, 2011

This evening we went to Lincoln High School Forum around 6:30 PM to attend the Lincoln Spanish National Honor Society Membership Induction Ceremony. There were about 60 students and their parents in attendance at the Forum. The sponsor Mrs Lopez and the office bearers announced everyone to grab some food and the ceremony will begin soon.

We took some cheese tacos, chips, and soda. Soon the ceremony began with returning members lighting their candles from the main candle. Then Associate members were inducted followed by Regular members. Then they all read the pledge.

Following the pledge everyone stood together and pledged to read Spanish and promote friendship and understanding between people of other lands.

Then we ate small piece of cake, bid farewell to everyone and the sponsor and left for home.

Lincoln Open House

2011-09-20T17:56:00.001-04:00

Lincoln High Open House

3838 Trojan Trail

Tallahassee, FL 32311

Today evening we went to the Lincoln High School's Open House. We first went to the Homeroom and picked up the schedule of classes to visit. At Homeroom we listened to the message from the Principal and other Assistant Principals. At 6:50 PM the first period meeting started.

We spent about 7 minutes in each class and we were given 5 minutes to go between classes. We were able to meet all teachers and introduce ourselves. Almost all teachers were able to fill us with enough information during the 7 minutes long presentation.

At the end of the 6th period we went to the forum to visit the exhibitors and picked up some "To Go Spaghetti" dinner and headed home. By the time we were home it was almost 8:40 PM.

Induction in National Honor Society

2011-09-13T21:52:00.000-04:00

Induction in National Honor Society
Lincoln High Fall Ceremony
Lincoln Forum

Tuesday, Sep 13, 2011

This evening we went to Lincoln High School Forum around 6:15 PM to attend the Lincoln National Honor Society Fall Membership Induction Ceremony. Due to the short notice and busy schedule for several inductees and members, the number of people attending the ceremony was small. But the crowd was enthusiastic.

One of the sponsors for the school rose and spoke about the process of induction. Then four members read aloud the meaning of the four pillars of NHS (Character, Service, Leadership, and Scholarship). Then one office bearer read out the names of the Fall inductees. The inductees went to the stage lighted their candle from the "candle of knowledge" and read-out the pledge to join the society.

Then the sponsor spoke about the activities of the society and volunteer work they do throughout the year. She also asked the parents to give suggestions to what the society can do more.

Then we all enjoyed a cake.

Promoting EAF 2011 @ Downtown MarketPlace

2011-09-10T09:50:00.000-04:00

Promoting EAF 2011 @ Downtown MarketPlace

Sat, Sept 10, 2011

This morning Salim and I came to the Downtown MarketPlace (Downtown Tallahassee's Ponce de Leon park in part of the Chain of Parks) and selected one of the tents that had already been set-up. We hung the Asian Coalition of Tallahassee banner and set-up the table and two chairs.

We put out all the post-card sized, half-page sized EAF2011 posters on the table. People started to trickle in by 9:30 AM and we gave out the post-card sized information flyers to everyone. Ms Sara also helped us distribute the flyers.

Since I had other commitments, I left around 10:30 AM and came back in the afternoon to close out the distribution. By the end of the day, we have handed out over 150 flyers to people.

Drywall damage and repair

2011-09-05T11:00:00.000-04:00

Drywall damage and repair

Tallahassee, FL, USA

08/05/11:

During the Labor Day Holiday while we were playing around the house, the drywall inside one of our rooms was damaged. The damage was large enough for a foot to go through. So we immediately called one of the drywall repair companies to come and fix it. One of them told us that he will be here tomorrow.

08/06/11:
Today morning one the local drywall repair/installer came to our house. He surveyed the damages and told that one site needs simple patch work but other site needs a replacement drywall piece.

We asked him to begin his work. He then proceeded to cut out a bigger rectangular area on the room where the damage was big. He then placed a rectangular new drywall smoothed out the corners and put on a gauze-type tape over it. For the second room he simply used the gauze-type tape all over the damaged area. Then he put on quick dry white cement on the top of both the areas and allowed to dry for about 15 minutes.

After it had dried he mixed some material that was white and resembled the dry masonary on our walls. He generously applied that white cover coat and used the mason’s trowel to smooth the area to match rest of the wall surface.

The job was completed about 1 1/2 hour and we were happy with the finished job. We paid him with a personal check.

Blue Belt Testing

2011-08-13T11:00:00.002-04:00

Blue Belt Level 3 Testing

Saturday, August 13, 2011

Tally TKD Academy

Today afternoon VTS had to do the test for the third degree Blue Belt for his Tae Kwan Do martial arts class at Tallahassee Tae Kwan Do Academy. It has been a while since the last test and he had to practice at home several times to get every thing correct.

The testing itself took only 45 minutes (along with others who were testing for other advanced levels). The form, sparring, and defense skills went well and he hopes that he will be awarded the third level during the belt award ceremony next week.

Learn Hindi Class

2011-07-16T10:30:00.000-04:00

Learn Hindi Class

Indian Community Class in Tallahassee

Sat, July 16, 2011; 10:15-11:15 AM

NE Library Meeting Room

We attended one of the early sessions of Learn Hindi Class taught by the Indian Community in Tallahassee to all members of India Association and general public. The classes are scheduled to be held once a week on a Saturday and will last about an hour. The classes are scheduled to be held at the Meeting Rooms in the Main (Park Ave) or NE Branch locations of the Leon County Public Library. The classes are open to everyone and is free. However, those interested to learn are expected to come to all classes.

One such class was held today the NE Branch Library Meeting Room. About 10 children and 2 adults attended the class which was taught by Santosh and his friend. Today we learnt about alphabets and about our family.

ESI Thank You Dinner

2011-06-16T20:26:00.000-04:00

ESI Thank You Dinner

Asian American Heritage Month Celebration

2011-05-14T19:29:00.005-04:00

Asian American Heritage Month Celebration

Montford Middle School Auditorium

Saturday, May 14, 2011; 1-4 PM

The Asian Coalition of Tallahassee (ACT) together with Montford Middle School celebrated the Asian Pacific Islander American Heritage Month Celebration this afternoon between 1 and 4 PM at the Cafeteria.

Several countries and vendors participated in the event. The program consisted both of an entertainment section and information section. We put a booth and some of India Association members performed as well.

2011 IATLH Sports Day

2011-05-01T14:00:00.005-04:00

2011 IATLH Sports Day

Sunday, May 01, 9:00 AM to 12:00 Noon

Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenways

(Intersection of Miccosukee and Edenfiled Roads)

India Association of Tallahassee's 2011 IATLH Sports Day was held today between 9:00 AM and 12:00 Noon at the Miccosukee Canopy Road Greenways. It was a perfect Spring day with mild wind and cool morning. About 25 kids and about 25 parents joined us for the 4th installment of IATLH Sports Day.

Like last year, there were several categories for all age groups

Running | Relay-race | Blind-fold target finding
Jump-Rope | Lemon and Spoon race
Tug of war

The kids were pitted first against moms and lat

er dads and both instances the kids won (with dad's event 2-3 unnameable dad's joined the kids!!!). In all it was a fun day for those who decided to come.

At the end there was medal distribution. Bhanu won Gold Medal for blind-fold target finding!!

Photos taken by Santosh Dixit: http://www.socializr.com/eventphotos/252467882/4389#slide=0

Kara Puthandu Vizha

2011-04-16T22:32:00.007-04:00

Tamil (Kara) New Year Celebrations

கர வருடப் புத்தாண்டு விழா

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Rec Hall, Alumni Village, Tallahassee, FL 32310

We celebrated the 'Kara' Tamil New Year this evening at the Rec Hall at Alumni Village. The program started around 7:00 PM with Tamil Thai Vazhthu (தமிழ் தாய் வாழ்த்து). Then Dr Swamy welcomed everyone to the celebration. Then we had Siva and Guna do mimicry and several children performed songs and dances.

Then our drama was staged. Our drama's theme was conceived by my sister Ambiga and I wrote and modified the dialogue to suit our cast and Bhanu helped me in directing the play. The play named Thillumullu Thirumanam (தில்லுமுல்லு திருமணம்) featured 10 characters of which six of them were adults and four of them were kids. The play is a situation comedy where one set of parents tries to dupe the other set in getting their son (a hotel server) married to a girl (whose parents cheat by presenting her with imitation jewelry). The play ends with everyone realizing that they all duped each other.

There was also another play called டன் வந்து டிக்கி கிட்டு போய்ட்டான். Following the plays Mrs Karpagam gave of vote of the thanks and we adjourned for dinner.

Green Belt Level 3 Testing

2011-04-07T20:53:00.005-04:00

Green Belt Level 3 Testing

Tallahassee Tae Kwan Do Academy

Thursday, April 07, 2011; 7:30-8:30 PM

Tallahassee, FL 32308

This evening there was a Korean martial arts (Tae Kwan Do) Green Belt Level 3 (and other levels) testing at Tallahassee TaeKwanDo Academy. The students ranging in ranks from Brown, Blue, Green, Yellow, & White, and Levels one, two, & three were tested. The typical test consisted of demonstrating the Level's form and skills as well as a free sparring (for levels Green and above). The typical time for form and skill was about 5 minutes (for individuals). The sparring times varied from 3 to 8 minutes (for a group).

VTS showed off his Green Belt Level 3 (black-stripe) today. Then he did two rounds of pair-wise sparring with two other team members from his rank (Green belts). Finally he also demonstrated his board breaking ability. Based on the response from the judges, it looked like he did well.

2011-04-02T13:30:00.002-04:00

43^rd Springtime Tallahassee Grand Parade

Asian Coalition of Tallahassee Contingent | Number 113-114

Saturday, April 2, 2011; 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Tallahassee, Florida, USA

Today we participated in the forty-third Springtime Tallahassee Grand Parade along the parade route on North Monroe Street. This is our fourth year of participation as Asian Coalition of Tallahassee member. We two and three other members of India Association of Tallahassee and some other members of ACT joined the group. In all we had about 30 people ready when the parade started at 10:30 AM.

The Japanese Community of Tallahassee and FSU Japanese Students Association had about 20 more people carrying the portable Shinto shrine "mikoshi" and they also appealed for support for the recent Japanese triple tragedy March 11, 2011 Tsunami+Earthquake+Nuclear Disaster.

We were assigned slot number 113 and 114 (almost the last entry; only Star-Metro was behind us) and we gathered at the intersection of North Monroe and Seventh Avenue. We followed Alachua County ISKCON group. We walked the parade route for about 1.25 mile from the intersection of Third Avenue and North Monroe Street via Mahan Drive to all the way to Gaines Street and South Monroe Street intersection. By the time the parade ended it was about 12:15 PM.

The weather was cloudy and slightly windy. This year the turn-out from our group was lower because during the parade time India and Sri Lanka was playing the final match of 2011 Cricket World Cup match at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, India. At about the start of the parade Sri Lanka had finished their match with 274 for 6 wickets. India started but lost two wickets with 31 for 2 (Sehwag and Tendulkar outs). But it will turn out that India will win the 2011 Cricket World Cup with 277 for 4 wickets and 10 balls to spare (on a 50 over game).

My photos of the parade: http://picasaweb.google.com/somabhanu/2011STP#
Santosh Dixit's photos of the parade:http://picasaweb.google.com/dixitsantosh/SpringParedApril2011#
Don Pattya's photos of the parade: http://picasaweb.google.com/chao0360/SpringtimeTallahasseApr22011#

Tae Kwan Do Regional Competition

2011-03-12T20:34:00.000-05:00

Tiger-Rock Taekwando

Tae Kwan Do Regional Competition

Lincoln High School Gymnasium

Tallahassee, FL 32311

Saturday, March 12, 2011; 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM

Today VS took part in the Tiger-Rock Taekwando's Regional Competition as a member of Tallahassee Taekwando Academy at Lincoln High School's Gymnasium.

Harlem Globetrotters and Martial Arts

2011-03-09T20:31:00.002-05:00

Harlem Globetrotters and Martial Arts

Wednesday, March 09, 2011

Tallahassee Civic Center

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Today we all went to see Harlem Globetrotters perform at 7 PM at the Tallahassee Civic Center. During the half-time of their performance, Tallahassee Tae Kwan Do Academy has been invited to perform their forms and board-breaking routines.

We all three went to see the performance. Just around 8 PM VTS and several others went to the middle of the arena and performed their forms, routines, and couple of them broke the boards as well.

2010 FSU Commencement Ceremony

2010-12-10T22:45:00.004-05:00

2010 FSU Fall Graduation
Masters of Information and Library Sciences
Friday, Dec 10, 2010, 7:30-9:45 PM
Tallahassee Leon County Civic Center
Tallahassee, FL 32306

The Florida State University 2010 Fall Commencement Ceremony for Masters in Information and Library Sciences (and others) was held this evening (Friday, Dec 10, 2010) between 7:30 and 9:30 PM at Leon County Civic Center in Tallahassee, FL.

We all (seven of us) arrived around 6:15 PM at Civic Center and the weather was brisk and cold in mid fifties. Bhanu had to leave early and stay with the graduates. We were then let inside around 6:25 PM and we went and sat in the section named 'P' close to the Masters candidate area.

At 7:30 the program began with Processional "Pomp and Circumstance" which was followed by Professor Eric Barron, President of FSU's welcome speech, address by FSU student body President Dustin Daniels. The commencement speaker was Professor Thomas Joiner, FSU, Dept Psychology who spoke about the importance of staying connected to other people.

Then the undergraduates were conferred their degrees and each everyone went to the stage to accept it. Following undergraduates, Masters and Ph.D candidates were conferred their degrees in their chosen field of study. Then they all went and accepted their degrees in person. Each Dean from the their respective colleges shook the candidates hand first and the President congratulated the candidates. There were photos and video of the program.

FSU Fall Graduation Ceremony Video

Finally around 9:45 PM the program ended with singing of Garnet Gold Hymn."

Community-wide Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

2010-11-23T21:01:00.001-05:00

Community-wide Interfaith Thanksgiving Service
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Ruby Diamond Auditorium, Tallahassee, FL 32306

Tallahassee Interfaith Group (TIG) celebrated its 28th Community-wide Thanksgiving Service at Ruby Diamond Auditorium, FSU Campus on Tuesday, November 23, 2010 between 7 and 8:30 PM. This year the TIG brought about thirty or so interfaith congregations and groups together for the service titled "Hope for the Troubled Times". For the first time the service was held at the newly renovated Ruby Diamond Auditorium at Florida State University campus and TIG collaborated with FSU Department of Music.

The service began with sounding of Shofar which was followed by the welcome address by Rev Sally Campbell-Evans. Then FSU African Drum & Dance Ensemble, Voces Angelorum, and FSU Blues Band performed several pieces with interludes of great speeches by many people from various interfaith denominations.

As a Hindu practitioner, I was given a chance to read a prayer about "Hope during Troubled Times". I choose to read a prayer from the Gospel of Sri Ramakrishna. Following my speech there was a song by Children's Orchestra and other performances.

Finally around 8:30 the service concluded. My whole family attended the program since we were able to get some time-off. It was a great feeling to be part of the service.

ACT Party

2010-11-21T17:15:00.004-05:00

ACT Thank You Party
Sunday, November 21, 2010; 2-6 PM
FSU Ballroom, Tallahassee

The Asian Coalition of Tallahassee together with Asian American Students Union organized a "Thank You" party for all the volunteers, performers, exhibitors, and sponsors at The Ballroom on Sunday, November 21, 2010 between 2 and 6 PM.

Azu, the Chinese Restaurant was asked cater the main dish for the event. All members brought their own dish to share for the party as well. We arrived bit late since we had another commitment earlier the day.

Then around 2:45 Clyde and I and all others of the Board Members addressed those gathered and thank them for their help. This was followed by singing, dancing, and mingling of guests who had gathered. In all the party went very well.

x-rays - Google Search

2010-11-08T14:48:00.000-05:00

x-rays - Google Search

13th Cultural Glimpses of India

2010-11-06T21:16:00.004-04:00

Cultural Glimpses of India 2010

13th Annual Program

Saturday, November 06, 2010; 4-7 PM

Lawton Chiles High School Auditorium

Tallahassee, FL 32312

The thirteenth Cultural Glimpses of India (CGoI2010) was held this evening between 4 and 7:40 PM at Lawton Chiles High School Auditorium. This is the first year I was the President of India Association of Tallahassee (www.iatlh.org). Even though my team was full of new members, they all came out swinging. Based on the way the program went all my team members did exceptional job. There dedication, hard work, time spent on rehearsal, attention to minute details, the work of several volunteers, and help from the Trustees helped us pull off one of the successful Glimpses in the recent past.

There were 22 individual items with an intermission lasting about 15 minutes. The temperature outside was crisp and in the mid fifties and forties. It was also the last evening before we switch back from daylight saving time to standard time so it was dark bit earlier.

My own team did social comedy skit called "Indians in Tallahassee". The skit was continuation of the skit we did for Utsav/IndiaDay 2010 where we parody interaction of the the Indian-American parents and the American-born children of Indian parents. It was well received.

CCCC Finals

2010-10-23T15:30:00.003-04:00

CCCC Finals

Saturday, October 23, 2010; 2:00 to 3:30 PM

Tom Brown Park, Tallahassee, FL

The Capital City Cricket Club held its fall finals on Saturday, October 23, 2010 between 1:00 and 3:00 PM at Tom Brown Park baseball diamond. Both the semi-finals and finals were held on the same day.

The winner of the fall finals was All-star Cricket Team and the runners were Alumni Cricket Club. India Association of Tallahassee, wanting to expand its membership and reach out to sports and cricket enthusiasts, partially sponsored the trophies.

The organizers and players showed excellent dedication and sportsmanship. As the current President of IATLH, I was invited by the organizers to be present during the award ceremony. It was really fun watching them play taped-ball (tennis ball with white tape around it) cricket.

October Fest @ Weems

2010-10-23T12:00:00.003-04:00

October Fest @ Weems

Picnic at Weems Park

Saturday, October 23, 2010; 11:15-1:15 PM

Weems and Gardens of Weems Plantation a quiet neighborhood in the Eastern side of Tallahassee held its third annual fall festival called Octoberfest 2010 at the Weems Neighborhood Park on Saturday, October 23, 2010 between 11 AM and 2 PM. The Weems HOA and Women of Weems were the organizers of the event which featured live music by The Dorian Q, a Jazz Quartet, games and costume parade for kids, fun and food for everyone.

The picnic began with a costume parade and live music. There were fun activities for the children, like face painting, loop the liter, and spider toss. City of Tallahassee Police Department provided Free ID cards for children, and volunteers collected food for the Second Harvest of Big Bend.

We went around 11:30 AM and stayed for hour and half. We enjoyed the music, and the food. The kids took part in various games and spoke to their friends and neighbors. It was a perfect Saturday picnic at our neighborhood park.

Guest Speaker for DSWP

2010-10-18T12:45:00.001-04:00

Guest Speaker, College of Social Work

Diversity in Social Work Practice

Monday, October 18, 2010, 11-12 Noon, UCC 1702

Dr.K. Mathis had invited several Asian Americans to be Guest Speakers in his class on Diversity in Social Work Practice (SOW 4626/4620). I was joined by Dr. Tanaka (Japan) and Dr. Diao (the Philippines). Each one of us spoke about our country and its culture, social structure, contemporary issues, and its relevance. The speech lasted for about an hour and we each spoke for 15-20 minutes. Following each speech there was a Q+A session.

A version of the speech I gave can be seen at this link: Oct 2010 DSWP Talk

Navarathri Celebration with dance

2010-10-15T23:30:00.000-04:00

Navarathri Celebration with dance

Friday, October 15, 2010; 9-11 PM

The Samaj

Tallahassee, FL

I went to the Samaj around 9 PM and I was joined by other friends for the celebration of Navarathri (Festival of Nine Nights). There was live music band Payal Music Group from Gainesville playing songs.

Everyone started to perform the Navarathri dance and we joined in after a while. It was really fun to be part of the celebration. Then we left around 11 PM since we had other engagements early in the morning.

Green Belt Award Ceremony

2010-10-13T20:07:00.005-04:00

Belt Award Ceremony

Yellow to Green Belt

Temple Israel

Wednesday, October 13, 2010, 5:30 to 6:30 PM

Today VS was awarded the Greenbelt with White Stripe for his Tae Kwon Do skills that he had mastered and passed during test conducted last week. This is the second time the Belt Awarding ceremony was conducted at Temple Israel (but this time it was in the recreation room and not the Gym).

Due to the change of location, the pot-luck dinner was cancelled. The Yellow to Green-White form can be seen in the following video:

10-10-10

2010-10-10T21:26:00.000-04:00

10-10-10

Experience Asia 2010 | 6th Annual Asian Festival

2010-10-09T21:23:00.002-04:00

Experience Asia 2010 | 6th Annual Asian Festival

Saturday, October 09, 2010, 10 AM to 5 PM

Bloxham and Lewis Parks

Tallahassee, FL 32301

The Sixth Annual Experience Asia 2010 Festival was held at Bloxham and Lewis Parks (part of the Chain of Parks) in Downtown Tallahassee on Saturday, October 09, 2010 between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM. There was Downtown Market Place on the other side of the Festival and this Saturday was a shoulder Saturday (no home Football games scheduled).There were performers from the Philippines, India, China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, Thailand and other countries. There were group songs, group dances, musical performances, martial arts demonstrations, information booths, and ethnic vendors of food, fashion, jewelry, arts, and crafts.

The featured performers were the Matsuriza Taiko Drummers from Walt Disney World in Orlando Florida.

It was a perfect Saturday in early October in Tallahassee. The temperature was ideal high seventies to low eighties. There was no rain or clouds in the sky. Early in the morning with help from my EC colleagues I set-up the India Association of Tallahassee's booth in Bloxham park. The program started with IATLH group performing a prayer song in the Lewis park's main stage.

Quiz from Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life

2010-10-04T15:16:00.003-04:00

Quiz from Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life

Monday, October 04, 2010

Tallahassee, FL, USA

Recently the media outlets reported about the results from a quiz conducted by Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life about Americans and their knowledge about religion. It showed that even though most Americans consider themselves very religious their knowledge of religion was NOT that high. So I thought I would test my own knowledge about religion.

Since birth I have been a follower of one faith - the one I was born into, and about half of my life I spent in a country where that faith has been the predominant one. Then during the second half my life I am living in a country where my faith is not the predominant one.

So, I went to Pew Forum on Religion and Public Life and took the quiz that contained 15 questions about religion. Several questions related to the Judo Christian Faiths and there were about 4 questions about Eastern religions. After finishing the test, I was surprised to learn that I answered correctly 14 out of the 15 questions.

Glad to know at least I know something about religion. Thank God!!!

My results: Quiz Results

Happy Gandhi Jayanthi

2010-10-02T09:22:00.002-04:00

Happy Gandhi Jayanthi

International Day of Non-violence

Saturday, October 02, 2010

Tallahassee, FL

Today marks the 141st birth anniversary of India's Father of Nation, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi(ji). In India it is a national holiday. Internationally it is known as the Day of Non-violence.

So I spent at least some time thinking over what one great soul has done to India and the World. Happy Gandhi Jayanthi!

Navarathri Golu article

2010-10-02T07:30:00.003-04:00

Navarathri Golu Article

நவராத்திரி கொலு

Tallahassee Democrat Faith Section

Saturday, October 02, 2010

Tallahassee, FL

This morning in the Faith section of Tallahassee Democrat (a local newspaper owned currently by Gannett Company) my article about Navarathri Golu appeared.

I wrote about how Navarathri is celebrated in various parts of India and how Tamil households celebrate navarathri with golu (aka kolu, bommai kolu, கொலு, நவராத்திரி கொலு). It was published along with information about Tallahassee Gujarati Samaj's navarathri celebrations.

The link is: http://www.tallahassee.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=201010020303

(Subscription needed to read it)

An Adobe Portable Document Format version can be seen here.

Harvest Moon and Jupiter

2010-09-23T09:07:00.003-04:00

Harvest Moon and Jupiter
Fall (autumn) begins
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Tallahassee, FL

Today marks the first day of autumn (fall) and today happens to be a full moon night.

Visit of Senior Grand Master Kollars

2010-09-18T14:17:00.001-04:00

Visit of Senior Grand Master Kollars

Tallahassee Tae Kwan Do Academy Open House

Saturday, Sep 18, 2010

Today TallyTKD Head Instructor's Grand Teacher (teacher's teacher) Senior Grand Master Craig Kollars, Black Belt 9th degree was visiting Tallahassee. There were seminars in the morning for students who were green belt and higher.

We met with Senior Grand Master Craig Kollars during the open House at TallyTKD. I took pictures during the adult-class seminar. We also met and spoke to him briefly after the seminar.

Tanjore to TLH at Ten Thousand Villages

2010-08-28T16:26:00.001-04:00

Tanjore to TLH Skit at Ten Thousand Villages
Saturday, August 28, 2010, 1 PM
Market Square, Tallahassee, FL

Tallahassee's Ten Thousand Villages Fair-Trade store was celebrating its 5th year anniversary with variety of programs. One among them was the International Day scheduled for Saturday, August 28, 2010. Asian Coalition of Tallahassee's Aurora Hansen was the main coordinator of entertainment program and she brought together several people to perform at the store.

VS and I arrived around 12:45 PM and set to do repeat performance of the stand-up comic routine that I had written called, "Tanjore to Tallahassee", where the skit parodies the mixing of Indian-born adults' behaviors with American-born children's habits.

Ms A announced that we will do the 8 minute comedy-routine inside the store. There were probably 20-25 people at the store and we performed that skit. It was well received, even though some of the jokes were probably harder to understand since it was written specifically to Indian-American audience.

IndiaDay/Utsav 2010

2010-08-21T20:52:00.005-04:00

IndiaDay/Utsav 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Moore Auditorium, Tallahassee, FL 32306

India Association of Tallahassee (IATLH) and Ind ian Stu dents Association of Tallahassee (INSAT) celebrated Indian Independence Day, Utsav - a cultural program, and India Day this afternoon. A food, jewelry, and handicrafts fair was held between 12:00 Noon and 6 PM in conjunction with the Celebrations.

More 450 people (students, children, youngsters, and Tallahassee residents) came to enjoy the free program. There were 20 individual items split into two segments. The earlier segment consisted of performances by young artists. This included two performances by VS and one by me.

The first one was "The Great Children of India", where VS represented Bhaghat Singh. In the second item VS and I did a stand-up comedy called, Tanjore to Tallahassee, where we parodied the clash between Indian-born adults and American-born youngsters.

The event was a great success.

Inglish (Indian English) and American English Usage

2010-08-19T14:54:00.002-04:00

Inglish (Indian English) and American English Usage

An article about usage of Indian English and American Equivalent

Thursday, August 19, 2010

Tallahassee, FL, USA

I have posted an article about Inglish (Indian English) and American English usages. In this article I compare and contrast many English words commonly used in India and therefore have their own meaning while the same words may not be understood in America. Worse at times they may even entirely different things in America (or the Western world).

I know there are probably hundreds of other words and phrases out there that can be added. As noted this is only my first trial. I will add more words as I remember them.

The link to my document: Inglish (Indian English) and American English Part 1 & Part 2

Belt Ceremony

2010-08-18T20:22:00.003-04:00

Belt Award Ceremony
Tallahassee Tae Kwon Do
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Temple Israel Gymnasium

Today evening the Tallahassee Tae Kwon Do (Ho-Am/Tiger Rock Tae Kwon Do, part of International Taekwondo Alliance) held its summer Belt Award Ceremony. (Ho-Am in Korean means Tiger-Rock, representing Siberian Tiger that lives in Korea, representing its power). More than two hundred people parents, students, and children were there in the audience. All the students brought in a dish-to-share so the event was a pot-luck dinner that started around 5:30 PM. Everyone had some thing to eat.

Then around 6:15 PM the Head Instructor and his assistant demonstrated some new techniques of sparring and hit avoidance. They have announced some small changes to dress code due to the hot summer.

Following the demonstration the belt ceremony began. First adult and junior black belts were awarded followed by Junior belts. After the junior belts were awarded regular adult belts were awarded VTS got his first promotion with a new yellow belt.

Start with EM Work

2010-07-27T18:43:00.001-04:00

Start with EM Work

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

I started with some EM work today. I visited the BSIR while the experts were working on the instrument and samples. I watched over while those who experts showed me how to operate and control the instrument. It was well worth it. It is going to take a loooong time before I can catch up. But it was a good start!

YSP Reception 2010

2010-07-21T20:37:00.000-04:00

2010 YSP Reception

Miller Hall

Wednesday, July 21, 2010, 7:00 PM

Today evening we had the YSP 2010 year reception and poster presentation. This was the first year I had to go to Miller Hall. The reception began at 7:00 PM with one Administrator and one Biological Science faculty presenting their views on YSP and Research work in general.

Then the viewing of the posters began. There were about 22+ individual research projects (IRP) this year and therefore there were at least 41 people presenting the work. My group with two individual presented their work. The presentation was well received. Our group had good number of people visiting learn about the work. It was a good year and good project.

New Year for Tae Kwon Do

2010-07-12T21:27:00.000-04:00

New Year for Tae Kwon Do

Monday, Jul 12, 2010, 7:30 PM

Tallahassee Tae Kwon Do Academy

Today was the first day for the year long practice for Tae Kwon Do at the TallyTKD Academy. After trying out for one month during summer, we have decided to sign-up for one year of training. There will be two sessions per week. The session will last about 1 hour. There are several days and couple of time slots available depending upon the level of practitioner.

We were able to pick some good friends at the Academy. Some of them were couple of levels higher and other were at the same level or one level higher. We start with the basic level

2010-07-08T11:17:00.007-04:00

Eastside Branch Library Groundbreaking

Leon County Public Library System

Thursday, July 08, 2010; 9-10:30 AM

1709 Pedrick Road, Tallahassee, FL 32317

Today morning there was a Groundbreaking ceremony for the Eastside Branch Library of the Leon County Public Library System. Several local, county, city officials, library staff, and general public attended the event. This will be the new location for the Eastside Branch currently located at the intersection of Capital Circle SE and Apalachee Parkway.

Some of the photos taken by G. Somasundaram during the ceremony are posted here and at the Leon County Library’s website as well.

Fourth of July Picnic and Fireworks

2010-07-04T22:19:00.000-04:00

Fourth of July Picnic and Fireworks

Sunday, July 04, 2010

Wakulla Springs State Park, Florida &

Tallahassee, Florida

We headed to the Wakulla Springs State Park at the outskirts of Tallahassee for afternoon together with our friends and family. About six families met at the Park and some of us went for a swim at the constant 70F Wakulla Spring itself and a river boat ride.

Rest of them stayed behind and played some ball. After our swim we ate lunch brought by the families. The boat ride was nice and we were able to see gators, anhingas (snake bird), blue herons, ibises, river turtles, cormorants, and surprisingly a manatee.

Then we all returned to Tallahassee. Late in the evening it drizzled a bit then we started some firework in our front yards between 8:30 and 9:15 PM. Then at 9:45 PM the firework display from Tom Brown Park started. We all gathered in the front yard of our neighbor's whose house had a great view of the fireworks.

In all we had a great day.

Washington DC Trip

2010-06-26T23:15:00.000-04:00

Washington DC Trip
Saturday, June 26, 2010

The members of ECSC ESI Summer Camp successfully completed their Summer Camp trip to Baltimore and Smithsonian Institution.

Toy Story 3

2010-06-20T14:00:00.000-04:00

Toy Story 3
AMC Theater, Tallahassee Mall
Sunday, June 20, 2010

We went to Toy Story 3 a Disney/Pixar movie (3rd in the series, hopefully the final one) two days after it was released to the general public. It was a reasonably good movie. We saw the regular version and NOT the 3-D version.

New Windows 7 PC

2010-06-16T15:44:00.000-04:00

New Windows 7 64-bit PC
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
@Work

I got a new Windows 7 PC Enterprise Edition with 64-bit version installed. The PC was built from scratch and we added the O/S. Once the O/S was installed, I started to add programs that I usually use more often one at a time.

Soon I added an additional hard drive for my data, leaving alone the 80GB main hard drive for O/S and associated software. This way, I hopefully don't have to deal with filled c:\ disk like I used to do with my Windows XP PC.

Capital City Tape Ball Cricket Tournament

2010-06-13T20:30:00.002-04:00

Capital City Tape Ball Cricket Tournament

Finals and Award Ceremony

Sunday, June 13, 2010

Tallahassee, FL 32311

Organizers of Capital City Tape Ball Cricket Tournament held their Summer 2010 series at Tom Brown Park Baseball fields between Saturday, June 12 and Sunday, June 13, 2010. The tournament featured eight teams from Tallahassee and surrounding area. After several first round games two teams advanced to the finals on Sunday, June 13, 2010.

The two teams played and the team headed by Baskar won the finals. I was invited (as President of India Association of Tallahassee) to their award ceremony on Sunday. The program presented five awards for Winning Team, Runner-up team, Man of the match, and two other team recognitions.

Photos from the ceremony can be found at: http://picasaweb.google.com/somabhanu/CCTBCT2010#

Reception at the Governor's Mansion

2010-05-24T21:15:00.003-04:00

Reception at the Governor's Mansion
Monday, May 24, 2010
Tallahassee, FL

On this afternoon Asian and Asian Pacific Americans from the state of Florida were invited to Governor's Mansion for a reception to honor the contributions of Asian Americans to Florida and to the US.
It was organized by ACT and AAFF. There were several speakers including the Governor himself. I was given an opportunity to speak as the President of India Association of Tallahassee. In the picture above you can see me while I am delivering my 3 minute speech while Governor Charlie Crist looks on.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Classical Dance Program

2010-05-16T20:23:00.000-04:00

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Classical Dance Program

Sponsored by IATLH and INSAT

Sunday, May 16, 2010; 2:00 - 4:00 PM

FSU Moore Auditorium

Tallahassee, FL 32306

On Sunday afternoon between 2 and 4:30 PM India Association of Tallahassee and Indian Students Association of Tallahassee brought a Indian classical dance program called Tallahassee Nritya Mela as part of the 2010 Celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration

2010-05-15T21:04:00.002-04:00

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration

Center for Global Engagement

110 S Woodward Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32306-4216

Saturday, May 15, 2010; 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

As part of the 2010 Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration in Tallahassee organized by Asian Coalition of Tallahassee and its member organizations like India Association of Tallahassee, Taiwanese American Association of Tallahassee and Japanese Association of Tallahassee, Big Bend Filipino Association organized series of cultural performances on Saturday, May 15, 2010 at CGE. I attended the whole program and had a booth for India Association of Tallahassee. Members of the Gujarati Samaj of Tallahassee performed during the program. John Marks, mayor of Tallahassee stopped by and congratulated the members on the celebration.

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Art Exhibition

2010-05-07T20:47:00.003-04:00

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Art Exhibition

Center for Global Engagement, 110 S Woodward Avenue

Tallahassee, FL 32306-4216

May 7, 2010 - May 31, 2010

As part of the 2010 Asian Pacific American Heritage Month celebration in Tallahassee organized by Asian Coalition of Tallahassee and its member organizations, on Friday, May 07, 2010 the APAHM Art Exhibition was opened to public. There was a public reception at 6:00 PM. Four artists from India, Pakistan, and Japan exhibited their work at the "Reflections Art Gallery". I attended the reception. More information is available at Center for Global Engagement's website: www.cge.fsu.edu

தலகாசி தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு விழா

2010-04-17T22:00:00.004-04:00

தலகாசி தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு விழா

சனிக்கிழமை, ஏப்ரல் 17, 2010

தலகாசி, ஃப்லாரிடா 32317

கடந்த 11 வருட காலமாகவே (ஆண்டு 2000ல் தொடங்கி) தலகாசில் தை மாதத்தில் பொங்கல் விழாவையும், சித்திரை மாதத்தில் தமிழ் வருடப் பிறப்பையும், கோடை காலத்தில் பூங்கா சுற்றுப் பயணத்தையும், ஐப்பசியில் தீபாவளியையும் கொண்டாடுவது என்பது தலகாசி தமிழ் சங்கத்தின் பழக்கமாகிவிட்டது. வழக்கம் போலவே இன்றைய தமிழ் நிகழ்ச்சிகள் தமிழ்த் தாய் வாழ்த்தைப் பாடிய பிறகு ஆரம்பித்தது. முதலில் திரு முத்துசாமி அவர்கள் கூடியிருந்த இந்திய, இலங்கை, சிங்கப்பூர், மலேசிய தமிழன்பர்கள் அனைவரையும் அன்புடன் வரவேற்று பல காலமாக தலகாசியில் வாழும் தமிழன்பர்களையும் சமீபத்தில் வந்து இருக்கும் தமிழன்பர்களையும் அறிமுகப்படுத்தினார்கள்.

சின்னச் சிரிய குழந்தைகள் பாரதியாரின் ‘ஒடி விளையாடு பாப்பா’ பாடலைப் பாடி ஆடவே தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு விழாவின் நிகழ்ச்சிகள் தொடங்கின. வெளிநாட்டிலேயே பிறந்து வளரும் குழந்தைகளுக்கு தமிழைப் புரிந்து கொள்ளவும் தமிழில் பேசவும் வாய்ப்பு கொடுக்க வேண்டும் எனும் குறிக்கோளுடன் கடந்த 6 வருட காலமாக தமிழ் நாடகம், தமிழ் செய்யுள், மற்றும் தமிழ் பாடல் பயிற்சி கொடுத்து வரும் தாயுமானசாமி மற்றும் பானு சோமசுந்தரம் “மாணிக்கம் மாட்டினான்” என்னும் தலைப்புடைய நகைச்சுவை நாடகத்தை அரங்கேற்றினார்கள். அந்த நாடகத்தில் 7 குழந்தைகளும் 2 பெரியவர்களும் கலந்து கொண்டு தமிழில் பேசி நடித்தார்கள். கபட நாடகம் ஆடும் மாணிக்கத்தின் காய்கறி வியாபாரமும் நகைத் திருட்டும் எப்படி அவனை மாட்டி வைக்கிறது என்பது தான் அந்த நாடகத்தின் கருத்து. பின்னர் சிறுவர்களும், சிறுமிகளும் கடவுள் பாட்டு பாடினார்கள். அதன் பிறகு திரு சிவராம கிருஷ்ணன் மற்றவர்கள் போல பேசியும் நடித்தும் காண்பித்தார் (mimicry).

இடைவெளியின் போது தாயுமானசாமி சோமசுந்தரம் மற்றும் விவேக் சோமசுந்தரம் நகைச் சுவை வசனம் பேசி அனைவரையும் சிரிக்க வைக்க முயற்சித்தனர். திரு மனோகரன் திரைப்பட பாடல்கள் எப்படி மாற்றம் அடைந்து வருகின்றன என்பதை சுட்டிக் காட்டினார். திருமதி தீபா மற்றும் பிரபா கர்நாடக இசையில் பாடல்கள் பாடினார்கள். செல்வி சுதா திரைப்பட இசைக்கு ஒரு நடனம் ஆடினார். இந்த நிகழ்ச்சிகளில் விவேக் சோமசுந்தரம், ராகுல் & ரோகித் வாசுதேவன், மாதேஷ் மனோகரன், ராகுல் அபினவ், பார்கவி, ஜனனி, தீபா, மனோகரன், பிரபா, மற்றும் சுதா பங்கேற்றனர்.

கடைசியாகக் திருமதி கற்பகம் நன்றி தெரிவிக்கவே நிகழ்ச்சி முடிவுப் பெற்றது. கூடி இருந்த அனைவரும் தாங்கள் கொண்டு வந்த சுவையான உணவுப் பதார்த்தங்களை மற்றவருடன் பகிர்ந்து கொள்ள ஆரம்பித்தனர். விக்ருதி வருடப் பிறப்பும் நல்ல விதத்தில் ஆரம்பித்தது விழாவும் நல்ல விதத்தில் முடிவுற்றதது. பின்னர் கூடியிருந்த அனைவரின் உதவியுடன் அலுமினி வில்லேஜ் நிகழ்ச்சி அரங்கை சுத்தம் செய்து முடித்து விட்டு அனைவரும் வீட்டுக்குச் சென்றனர்.

புத்தாண்டு வாழ்த்துக்கள்

2010-04-14T07:53:00.004-04:00

இனிய புத்தாண்டு வாழ்த்துக்கள்

விக்ருதி வருடம்

புதன் கிழமை, சித்திரை 1, 2010

தலகாசி, அ.ஐ.நா.

தமிழன்பர்கள் அனைவருக்கும் எங்கள் இனிய புத்தாண்டு வாழ்த்துக்கள். வருகிற சனிக்கிழமை நாங்கள் தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு விழா கொண்டாட இருக்கிறோம். வருக! வருகவே!

-சோமசுந்தரம் குடும்பம்

Happy Tamil New Year

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Tallahassee, FL 32317

We wish all Tamil well-wishers a Happy Tamil New Year. We will be celebrating the New Year this Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Recreation Hall, Alumni Village, Tallahassee, FL 32310. We welcome you to the festivities where we plan to stage children's Tamil Drama, stand-up Tamil comedy routines, poetry recitation in Tamil and other activities. Please check the following links for more details:

Japan Spring Festival 2010

2010-04-10T17:06:00.002-04:00

Go to Japan Spring Festival 2010

Center for Global Engagement

Tallahassee, FL 32306

VTS and I went to the first Japan Spring Festival organized by Japanese Student Association of Florida State University. The festival featured displays, origami, writing name in Japanese, and gold fish catching.

It was fun.

National Census Day

2010-04-01T17:41:00.000-04:00

National Census Day 2010

Thursday, April 01, 2010

Tallahassee, FL 32301

Thursday, April 01, 2010 (today) is the National Census Day, the day everyone living in the United States all are expected to return the completed Census form. Unfortunately, as of today the return-rate (the percentage of people returing their form) remains low, around 42-45% for Tallahassee and Leon County. This rate is lower than the national average and lower than other cities and counties in the State of FL. The low percentage of return rate means lower funding for our city and county.

A public service announcement will air sometime starting today to encourage everyone to send in their forms.

International Bazaar

2010-03-27T19:52:00.003-04:00

International Bazaar
Center for Global Engagement
FSU Union Ballrooms
Saturday, March 27, 2010, 2:00 to 5:00 PM

In the afternoon I went to FSU Ballroom to be part of the fifteenth anniversary of International Bazaar (INB). INB was organized by FSU's Center for Global Engagement (formerly known as FSU's International Center. Members of India Association of Tallahassee (IATLH) performed two pieces for the audience (Jai Ho and "I am just like"). IATLH had a booth distributing information about the Association's activities. We also worked closely with INSAT, the Indian Student Association.

Record a PSA for Census

2010-03-25T18:21:00.001-04:00

Record A PSA for Census 2010
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Tallahassee, FL 32306

I was asked by people from Census to be part of the Leon County Public Service Announcement for Census 2010 participation. So I recorded a video PSA promoting Census 2010.

2010 Holi Celebration in Tallahassee

2010-03-21T18:03:00.001-04:00

2010 Holi Celebration and Potluck Lunch
India Association of Tallahassee
Sunday, March 21, 2010; 11:00 to 2:00 PM
AJ Henry Park, Tallahassee, FL 32309

IATLH invited all the members of the community to attend Holi Festival and the potluck lunch following the celebration today between 11:00 AM and 2:00 pm at AJ Henry Park, AJ Henry Park Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32309. Despite, the rainy day and damp weather about 80 people showed with delicious Indian food.

The Association provided Holi colors. Kids and their parents (couldn't tell who were playing more) played Holi colors by throwing multi colored pigments on each other. The food was warm and nice. At the end of the program everyone pitched in cleaned the park. We left the park cleaner and neater than we found them when we arrived. Thanks to all food coordinators and volunteers everything went well.

Swami Ishtananda's Talk at Dodd Hall

2010-03-20T18:55:00.002-04:00

Swami Ishtanada's Speech
Dood Hall
Saturday, March 20, 2010; 11:15-12:30 PM
Tallahassee, FL 32306.

Today, Swami Ishtananda, the current head and minister in residence of the Vedanta Center of St. Petersburg, visited Tallahassee on the request several Tallahasseeans. He spoke for about an hour about 10 principles or ideas that he thought that defines Vedanta (a preferred term for Hinduism).

There were about 50 people in attendance to hear him. His friends brought him from Tampa and after a brief stay they left for Tampa the same afternoon.

Census 2010 Form

2010-03-16T17:39:00.003-04:00

2010 Census Forms Arrive

Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Tallahassee, FL

Today we received the Census 2010 forms. Promptly we completed and mailed them back. They even have a Tamil version.

மக்கள் தொகை கணக்கெடுப்பு தமிழ் வழிகாட்டி:

http://2010.census.gov/2010census/language/tamil.php

http://2010.census.gov/2010census/pdf/LAG_Tamil.pdf

2010 ACT Party

2010-02-27T21:47:00.000-05:00

2010 ACT Party
The Globe
Saturday, Feb 27, 2010, 5:00 - 8:00 PM
Tallahassee, FL 32306

The Asian Coalition of Tallahassee (ACT www.asiantlh.org) held its "Thank You" party for the those who participated, volunteered, and performed in the 5th Experience Asia Festival this evening. ACT provided the main dishes, the International Center hosting the event at the Globe contributed the space, the people, and some main dishes. The IC's director was one of the main forces behind the party.
All members brough some food to share. Around 5:15 the Chairman of ACT thanked everyone for helping to put a great show last year. Then everyone enjoyed the delicious meal. The special guests for the evening were about dozen kids from The Phillipines who have come to participate in the "Young Inventors" program in Voldosta, GA.

Mayor's fundraiser

2010-02-20T18:49:00.004-05:00

Mayor's fundraiser

Saturday, Feb 20, 2010

We were at the mayor's fundraiser sponsored by Asian community. About 40 people attended the mayor's reelection fundraiser.

2nd Weather Fest In Tallahassee

2010-01-30T15:16:00.002-05:00

2nd Weather Fest
FSU Department of Meteorology
Saturday, Jan 30, 2010, 10 AM to 5 PM
Tallahassee, FL 32306

We went to the 2nd Tallahassee WeatherFest organized by FSU Department of Meteorology and National Weather Service, NOAA.

We witnessed the weather balloon being launched at 2 PM local time and spoke to several exhibitors. We also went to the severe weather simulator and the fourth floor command center

Pongal Celebration

2010-01-23T21:54:00.002-05:00

Pongal ( பொங்கல் விழா) Celebration
2010 பொங்கல் விழாவும் கோலப் போட்டியும்
Saturday, January 23, 2010
AVRH, Tallahassee, FL 32306

We celebrated the 2010 Pongal Vizha at Alumni Village Recreation Hall, Tallahassee, Florida 32306, USA on Saturday, January 23, 2010 between 5:30 and 9:30 PM. Earlier I had to be at the India Association of Tallahassee's Republic Day/Annual General Body Meeting since I officially became the President of IATLH. Like last year Mr Manoharan and Mrs Priya organized the event. This year we continued the tradition of doing in-door kolam drawings. First black plastic table cloth were affixed to the floor. Then women and children started to draw and paint the kolam (கோலம்) with white and colored powders. Kolams were judged by three independent people and prizes awarded to first and second place finishes.

This year only five families participated (compared to eight last year) due to short notice we gave them. We couldn't inform people ahead of time since we were in India during the Christmas Holidays.

Annual General Body Meeting and New Committe

2010-01-23T16:42:00.001-05:00

2010 AGM and New Committee

India Association of Tallahassee

Saturday, Jan 23, 2010 Meeting

Leon Co Public Library

Tallahassee, FL 32306

The 2010 Annual General Body Meeting of the India Association of Tallahassee was held earlier today. About two dozen families attended the function.

My team took the official Executive Committee's responsibility from the previous team. We pledged to work to make the Association more relevant to the members. I officially became the President of IATLH for the calendar years 2010 and 2011.

Breakfast Meeting with Friends

2010-01-20T09:17:00.003-05:00

Breakfast Meeting with Friends
Discuss Hindu Philosophy
Wednesday, Jan 20, 2009

We met with some friends this morning to discuss about Hinduism and Hindu philosophy. The members of this group has been meeting several years to discuss about various philosophical issues. I was invited to this meeting through a mutual friend.

The discussion went well for about an hour. All of us gathered learned so much about other's philosophical views better at the end.

30 Celsius to 30 Fahrenheit

2010-01-14T14:04:00.006-05:00

30°C to 30°F
Happy Pongal
Wednesday/Thursday, January 13/14, 2010
Chennai >> Frankfurt >> Tallahassee

We left humid Chennai (சென்னை), India (formerly Madras, airport code: MAA) with average temperature of 30° Celsius early morning on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 in Lufthansa flight toward Frankfurt, Germany. By the time we arrived it had already snowed in Frankfurt and the temperature was around 30°F.

After spending few hours on the ground in Frankfurt we left for Atlanta in another Lufthansa flight. After flying nine hours (instead of the ten and half hour original schedule) we finally arrived in Atlanta around 4 PM to a cold 30 F weather.

Then we stayed at Perry, Ga and finally arrived home around 7 AM with VTS coughing little bit.

Speak at Gurukulam

2009-12-29T18:08:00.003-05:00

Speak at Gurukulam

Conference on Basic Education

Tuesday, Dec 29, 2009, 10 AM to 2 PM

I was invited to speak at an Education Conference about Nai Talim (Mahatama Gandhiji's New Education) and its relevance at present day India at Kasturba Gandhi Kanya Gurukulam's Teacher Training College.

I along with several others spoke about our ideas in removing the obstacles to implementing the basic education model compared to the current education model.

Tsunami Anniversary

2009-12-25T11:28:00.002-05:00

Tsunami Anniversary

Chennai, India

Friday, Dec 25, 2009

Anna Zoological Park, Vandalur, India

Today is the 5th Anniversary for the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. We were at Vedaraniam on that fateful day when so many lives were lost

World AIDS Day Interfaith Service

2009-12-01T22:04:00.003-05:00

World AIDS Day Interfaith Service
December 1, 2009, 2009 7:00 p.m.
Unitarian Universalist Church of Tallahassee

2810 North Meridian Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312
Sponsored by the Canopy Connection and Big Bend Cares

Twenty-first World AIDS Day (Tuesday, December 01, 2009) was observed in many places in Tallahassee, FL. One such service sponsored by Big Bend Cares was held at the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tallahassee, 2810 Meridian Road between 7 and 9 PM. During the service members from several religious faiths and communities offered words/prayers of hope, healing, relief from suffering in the fight against HIV. The service was led by pastor from Gentle Shepherd Metropolitan Community Church. We then heard messages from people around the world who are suffering from the disease. Then members of th Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Jewish, and Pagan communities offered prayers and encouragements. There Interfaith choir sang songs as well.

Representing Hindu faith, I read a Sanskrit prayer for praise of God. Then read Thirugnana Sambanhar's Thevaaram in Tamil and meaning in English as a prayer for healing the suffering. I ended my speech from a quote about human being's greatest gift is "service to others". Then as the service ended everyone was given a red rose in rememberance of those who have passed away and for keeping hope for who are fighting the disease. That was followed by light refreshments.

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

2009-11-24T20:53:00.002-05:00

Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

Tuesday, November 24, 2009. 7:00 -8:30 PM

Temple Israel, 2215 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308

This evening I was invite to be part of the Tallahassee Interfaith Thanksgiving Service of Gratitude to Temple Israel where 26 different congregations participated in delivering a message of gratefulness and peace.

After sounding of the Shofar (ram's horn) by the Rabbi of Temple Israel the service was called to open. The Tallahassee Boys' Choir then sang a song. After a welcome song in Hebrew, I was asked to speak. I spoke about An Immigrant's view on Thanksgiving and read a Thirukkural (திருக்குறள்) verse on Praise of God (கடவுள் வாழ்த்து) and a verse on Gratitude (செய்ந்நன்றி அறிதல்).

Then people from other congregations spoke (Pastor of New Life United Methodist Church, Rabbi of Temple Israel, Imam of Masjid Al-Nahl, Minister, Unitarian Universalist Church, and Reading of Buddhist faith). Then following Interfaith Choir we all said Closing prayers and concluded the service.

The audience would have been around 400 people. It was a great service.

Cultural Glimpses of India 2009

2009-11-15T20:20:00.003-05:00

Cultural Glimpses of India

12th Annual Event

India Association of Tallahassee

Chiles High School Auditorium

Sat, Nov 14, 2009; 5:00 (5:15) - 9:30 PM

Tallahassee, FL 32312

The 12th Annual Cultural Glimpses of India hosted by India Association of Tallahassee was held yesterday (Saturday, November 14, 2009) at Chiles High School Auditorium. Due to some technical issues with audio system, for the first-time ever we had to start the program 15 minutes late.

I coordinated one program with the title "India Naadu En Veedu (இந்திய நாடு என் வீடு)" a musical skit with children of Tallahassee. The skit was based on the song with the same name and from the 1973 movie "Bharatha Vilas (பாரத விலாஸ்)". Eighteen children ranging in age 4-14 participated. Despite the fact we had less than 6 weeks to practice, the kids did a marvelous job. In addition, the parents of children who participated actually came originally from Tamil Nadu, Andra Pradesh, Karnataka, Gujarath, and West Bengal.

VTS also participated in another program coordinated by J Chatterjee titled "Children of India". VTS came as great Indian Bhagat Singh.

Social Work Practice Class

2009-11-05T16:30:00.005-05:00

Speak at Social Work Diversity Class
Thursday, November 5, 2009
C1704 University Center Building C
FSU, Tallahassee, FL 32306

I along with representatives from Japan, Thailand, and Philippines spoke for 15 minutes each at the Diversity, Social Work, & Practice class of Dr. Keithen V. Mathis today afternoon. There were about 30 kids in the class. The talk was for undergraduate students of Social Works Program at FSU. The lecture was about one hour long.

I gave the presentation in Power-Point (about 13 slides). Then representatives from Japan, Thailand, and Philippines spoke. After that ACT Chairman spoke about ACT. Then we took questions from the audience. It was very good experience talking to students. They all seemed very much engaged, since the questions they asked were all very relevant to topics I and others had covered.

Halloween

2009-10-31T22:15:00.000-04:00

Halloween at Weems
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Tallahassee, FL

For this Halloween we were all ready. It was a cold day/night, it had rained in the afternoon, there was a home football game (the home team fortunately won the close game). Despite all these things by late evening everything looked good. The air and ground dried out quickly and it was the last day before we fall back to Standard time the light was still out.

I put on a scary costume and stayed with the candy. Since young ones were not happy to see me in the costume, I stayed outside and handed out candy to everyone. It was a fun night.

Tamil Diwali Celebration

2009-10-25T21:55:00.004-04:00

Tallahassee Tamil Sangam Diwali Celebration
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Tallahassee, FL 32310

The Tallahassee Tamil Sangam's Diwali celebration was held on Sunday, October 25, 2009 between 4 and 8 PM at Alumni Village Recreation Hall. We had to change the date from Saturday, Oct 17, 2009 to this date due to conflict IATLH's Diwali Concert Dinner.

After everyone had arrived we had some snacks and then ate the dinner rather than do the fireworks due to the fact that sunlight still plentiful even at 7PM (day light saving time and the fact that Tallahassee lies almost the tail-end of the Eastern time zone). Then everyone young at heart lit firworks. This was followed by some sweets and ice cream. By 8:45 we packed-up and left for home. The function's primary organizers are:

* Dr Manoharan and Mrs Mani Priya
* Bhanu and I
* Mr Vasudevan and Mrs Sasikala
* Mr Sridhar and Mrs Viji
* Dr M Swamy and Mrs Karpagam

More details are available at the Socializr's event page: http://www.socializr.com/event/123406457

Greek Food Festival at Holy Mother of God Greek Church

2009-10-24T17:00:00.003-04:00

Annual Greek Food Festival

Holy Mother of God Church
1645 Phillips Road

Tallahassee, FL 32308

Saturday, October 24, 2009; 3:00-4:00 PM

We all went to the Annual Greek Food Festival at the Holy Mother of God Church. We have been coming to the Food Festival almost every year now both for the tasty pasteries, patates, and the entertainment. This year both our and neighbors families were there. We bought some pastries and some of us got some food to eat as well.

Then we sat down in front of the entertainment stage. We saw several ethnic dances from Crete, mainland Greece, and Northern parts of Greece. In one of the dances people come on stage and throw money on the dancers. It was a fun event. The pastries like Baklava amd almond cookies were delicious. I also met people from FSU-IC, ACT, and Russian friends.

Flying Circus of Physics

2009-10-17T18:15:00.001-04:00

Flying Circus of Physics

Physics Department
FSU, Tallahassee, FL 32306
Sat Oct 17, 2009; 12-3:00 PM

We went today to the Flying Circus of Physics today at the FSU Physics Department. This event is held every other year where the scientists and students from FSU Physics Department do activities that explain the how physics and chemistry works.

This year we attended the Chemical and Medicine Show where Dr. Goldsby showed how gases, solids, and liquid interact with other materials. We saw how hydrogen, oxygen, and their combination react to heat (flame). Then we went to the Laser & Light room, Magnetism room, Mechanics room. We also saw the pulleys in action, airplane throwing contest, Sports mechanics show. We had lots of fun!

Fifth Experience Asia Festival

2009-10-03T18:42:00.004-04:00

Fifth Experience Asia Festival

Saturday, October 03, 2009; 10-5 PM

Lewis and Bloxham Parks

Tallahassee, FL, USA

The fifth Experience Asia Festival ended nicely this evening with the closing and second performance of Matsuriza, the Japanese Taiko drummers from Orlando, FL. This year the crowd was about the same or slightly more than last year, but due to the expansion of booths on both the parks at times it felt the crowd was bit less. We will know the official numbers soon.

Our group performed the Harish Chandra play just before the official opening of the program at Noon. Mrs Jane Marks, the first lady of Tallahassee opened the program and Mr John Marks III spoke to the crowd via a speaker phone from Seattle, WA where we was attending a conference. Dr Diao welcomed everyone. Mr Ferdie, the ACT Secretary and Ms Aurora, one of the event coordinators were there everywhere helping people and doing their own cultural performances.

Booth at Ten Thousand Villages

2009-09-12T17:52:00.002-04:00

Booth at Ten Thousand Villages
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Tallahassee, FL 32312

We put a booth at Tallahassee Market Square Ten Thousand Village Fair Trade Shop and helped the non-profit. We provided free Indian food (home cooked and volunteer prepared) and free henna hand-painting

Speak at AASU General Body Meeting

2009-09-09T19:51:00.000-04:00

Speak at AASU General Body Meeting
Wednesday, September 09, 2009
Moore Auditorium

Watching ISS and Shuttle Fly by

2009-09-04T09:26:00.007-04:00

Watching ISS and Shuttle in the Sky

Friday, September 04, 2009

6:20 - 6:30 AM

Tallahassee, FL, USA

Early in the morning while the sunlight still had not penetrated our sky, we were able to watch the
International Space Station attached with Space Shuttle Discovery fly by above our heads. We were able to
do it for several minutes from our own backyard.

To find out when you will be able to see the ISS with or without the Space Shuttle one can go to the following web site and fill the country, state and city where you live. Then the website will give a list of dates and times during which you can see the ISS (provided the weather is good). We did this for US, Florida, and Tallahassee and the listing gave this information for Friday, September 04, 2009:

URL for Sighting Opportunities:
http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/realdata/sightings/index.html

Sighting for Tallahassee, FL, USA:
http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/realdata/sightings/cities/view.cgi?country=United_States&region=Florida&city=Tallahassee

Sighting data for ISS for Tallahassee, FL, USA for Friday, September 4, 2009:

ISS

Fri Sep 04/06:22 AM

10 above NW

11 above SSE

Sighting data for Space Shuttle Discovery for Tallahassee, FL, USA for Friday, September 4, 2009:

SHUTTLE

Fri Sep 04/06:22 AM

10 above NW

11 above SSE

To track the location of the ISS and SS you can use the following URL:
http://spaceflight.nasa.gov/realdata/tracking/index.html

and allow the Java Applet to run.

You can also use the Earth Sky website locate stars and planets while you watching the ISS using the following URL:
http://www.earthsky.org/tonighthome/

2009 Utsav

2009-08-29T20:18:00.003-04:00

Utsav 2009/ Indian Independence Day

Saturday, August 29, 2009
Moore Auditorium, FSU Oglesby Union
Tallahassee, FL 32306

?This program was a joint venture between IATLH, INSAT and FSU-IC. India Association of Tallahassee (IATLH) celebrated 62nd Indian Independence Day at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 29, 2009 at Moore Auditorium, FSU Campus. Utsav, the variety-entertainment program followed. Our group staged a children's skit about the life of legendary Indian king Raja Harish Chandra of Ayodhyha. About 10 kids ranging in ages 5-14 participated in the 9:30 minutes long play. I wrote the script and narrated it, Srini Kishore made the background music for the skit.

The event was open to public and the admission was free. Over 250 people attended it with their families and friends! United States Census 2010 Partner Specialist Winnie Tang and Vivek Swaroop also addressed the gathering about importance of Census 2010.

Cool First Day of School

2009-08-25T10:03:00.001-04:00

First day for Leon County Schools and Tallahassee Colleges

Monday, August 24, 2009

Tallahassee, FL

Today was one of the special days when all Leon County Schools (Elementary, Middle, and High) as well as FSU, FAMU, and TCC opened for classes for the Fall term. Usually the colleges open a week earlier than the schools but the simultaneous opening meant there were lot of students and parents on the road (in addition to the regular commuters) than most of the days.

This year’s streamlining of school bus schedule (one time for all High schools (7:30 AM), Middle schools (9:30 AM), and Elementary schools (8:30 AM) also contributed to higher density of vehicles on the road during the busy morning commute.

Cool Day for the start of the schools

2009-08-24T10:22:00.002-04:00

Cool Day for the start of Leon County Schools and Tallahassee Colleges

Monday, August 24, 2009

Tallahassee, FL

This morning when I woke up and went for a walk it was bit cool but pleasant the temperature was in low to mid sixties. Today also happens to be the day when all Leon County Schools (Elementary, Middle, and High) as well as FSU, FAMU, and TCC opened for classes for the Fall term. Generally the colleges open a week earlier than the schools but the simultaneous opening meant there were lot of students and parents on the road (in addition to the regular commuters) than most of the days.

We left home around 7:10 AM and by the time we arrived at the school which is only 2.9 miles away it was already 7:30 AM. The kids had to rush to the school to be in time. I arrived at FSU around 7:55 AM once again due to the traffic

School Orientation

2009-08-21T11:08:00.001-04:00

School Orientation

Lincoln High School

Friday, August 21, 2009, 8:30 - 10:30 AM

Tallahassee, FL

This morning we all went to the Lincoln High School orientation scheduled for 8:30 AM at the auditorium. When we arrived 10 minutes past 8 there were already lot of people gathered in front of the auditorium. Then doors opened and all of us went inside.

Around 8:30 the orientation began with presenting of the colors and Lincoln School band playing music. The principal and several administrators introduced themselves and spoke briefly. We all were asked meet with our counselors.

From the counselor we picked up our schedule and went around the school building meeting and greeting the teachers and staff. We bought some Lincoln school merchanise, put some money at the cafeteria account, and spoke couple of friends and left for home.

Dinner with friends at Lucy Ho's

2009-08-15T20:24:00.001-04:00

Dinner with friends at Lucy Ho's

Saturday, Aug 15, 2009

5:30 to 7:30 PM

Tallahassee, FL

Today we had dinner with our friends at Lucy Ho's resturant in Halsted Boulevard near I-10 interchange. We all went there and

our friends joined us few minutes later. I ordered LoMein and others ordered dinner buffet. We chatted and exchanged news

about our families.

Then around 7:15 PM we left as it was starting to drizzle. Our family know Lucy Ho's manager Masa.

2009-08-13T21:07:00.000-04:00

Harry Potter and Half-Blood Prince

Miracles 12 Theater

Thursday, Aug 13, 209

11:30 AM

We went to the movie Harry Potter and Half-Blood Prince movie today at Miracles 12 Theater near Governor’s Square Mall for the 11:30 AM screening. In total there were only seven people (including us) in the theater. Since it was a humid day even the window through which the movie was being projected fogged up couple of times.Then in the evening we had our friends come over for pizza and soda.

The Somasundarams (சோமசுந்தரம்) Blog

Wimse Tour of the Facility

ACT Thank You Party

The Hindu : States / Tamil Nadu : South India shivers as mercury dips below normal

Happy New Year 2012

NHM Writer and McAfee Anti-Virus incompatiblity

NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 Beta from New Horizon Media (Free)

McAfee Anti-Virus Problem

Incompatibility issue of free(and nice) software from New Horizon Media NHM Writer 1.5.1.1 and McAfeeanti-virus suite

General Description

PRoblem

Observations

Problems with McAfee

No problems with Norton Anti Virus Suite

Any suggestions?

Second Degree Brown Belt

Frontiers in Macromolecular Imaging

GS 300

Talk about 11-11-11

Cultural Glimpses of India 2011

Eastside Branch Library Opening

WFSU Radio Fall Pledge Drive

2011-12 American Heart Walk Big Bend - Team Life Sciences

7th Annual Experience Asia 2011

Cirque Du Soleil

Spanish National Honor Society Induction

Lincoln Open House

Induction in National Honor Society

Promoting EAF 2011 @ Downtown MarketPlace

Drywall damage and repair

Blue Belt Testing

Learn Hindi Class

ESI Thank You Dinner

Asian American Heritage Month Celebration

2011 IATLH Sports Day

Kara Puthandu Vizha

Green Belt Level 3 Testing

43rd Springtime Tallahassee Grand Parade

Saturday, April 2, 2011; 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM

Tallahassee, Florida, USA

Tae Kwan Do Regional Competition

Harlem Globetrotters and Martial Arts

2010 FSU Commencement Ceremony

Community-wide Interfaith Thanksgiving Service

ACT Party

x-rays - Google Search

13th Cultural Glimpses of India

CCCC Finals

October Fest @ Weems

Guest Speaker for DSWP

Navarathri Celebration with dance

Green Belt Award Ceremony

10-10-10

Experience Asia 2010 | 6th Annual Asian Festival

Quiz from Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life

Happy Gandhi Jayanthi

Navarathri Golu article

Harvest Moon and Jupiter

Visit of Senior Grand Master Kollars

Tanjore to TLH at Ten Thousand Villages

IndiaDay/Utsav 2010

Inglish (Indian English) and American English Usage

Belt Ceremony

Start with EM Work

YSP Reception 2010

New Year for Tae Kwon Do

Fourth of July Picnic and Fireworks

Washington DC Trip

Toy Story 3

New Windows 7 PC

Capital City Tape Ball Cricket Tournament

Reception at the Governor's Mansion

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Classical Dance Program

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Art Exhibition

தலகாசி தமிழ் புத்தாண்டு விழா

புத்தாண்டு வாழ்த்துக்கள்

Japan Spring Festival 2010

National Census Day

International Bazaar

43^rd Springtime Tallahassee Grand Parade