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A Little Message:
News No. 204
As a creator of artistic designs as well as a spiritual teacher, Supreme Master Ching Hai loves all expressions of inner beauty. It is for this reason that She refers to Vietnam as "Au Lac" and Taiwan as "Formosa." Au Lac is the ancient name of Vietnam and means "happiness." And the name Formosa, meaning "beautiful," reflects more completely the beauty of the island and its people. Master feels that using these names brings spiritual elevation and luck to the land and its inhabitants. |
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| World Leaders’ Correspondence
The US Policy Needed to Save Unborn Lives The Mexico City Policy was a United States policy requiring all non-governmental organizations that receive U.S. federal funding to refrain from performing or promoting abortion-related services overseas. This policy was first implemented by President Reagan in 1984 at a United Nations population conference in Mexico City. It has been rescinded and re-implemented several times over the past few decades, and is currently not in effect. On February 2, 2009, Supreme Master Ching Hai wrote to President Obama, strongly urging him to re-instate the Mexico City Policy to preserve the lives of unborn babies overseas. Following are Master’s letter and President Obama’s response.
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| Master’s Words
Earth Will Become Heaven
if All Humans Become Vegetarian
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, Gathering in Europe, February 13, 2009(Originally in Chinese)
Why are there earthquakes and tsunamis? It is because we have abused the Earth too much, so she is trying to shake it off. The more we mistreat the Earth, the more earthquakes and tsunamis there will be. As our human thoughts become more violent, there will be more typhoons. Such situations are a reflection of our mindset. They are just like fairies who come here to fulfill our desires. If we wish for good, they will give us good weather and world peace; if we wish for bad, they will give us bad things. They are just like our domestic helpers who will do as we want. We don’t have to tell them verbally; our thoughts spread naturally through the whole universe. Therefore, do not blame Heaven or Earth; do not blame typhoons and earthquakes. They are all created by humans. All those vicious thoughts about war and killing are used as tools by the fairies, because they think that is what we want. We are God, or at least God’s children, and we will have what we wish for. That is why the Bible says that we are the crown of the universe and that humans are the master of the universe. Thus, Shakyamuni Buddha said that humans are the future Buddhas, and the most precious life form is the human body. It is so rare to have a human body that it is like a blind turtle coming up to the surface of the sea one time in thousands of years, and coincidentally puts his head through a hole in a piece of wood that just happens to be floating by at that moment. Therefore, we ought to love ourselves and keep our body, mind and speech pure. Do not blame the climate; do not blame global warming; do not blame God for not saving us. We are God; we are the crown of Creation; we are the most precious. Many people on Earth are not pure in their body, mind and speech. Thus, animosity, wars, struggles for fame and gain, killing and other negative actions are increasing. Animals also have souls; if we bring upon them the disaster of being slaughtered, or if we encourage killing, of course the climate will change, because the fairies are acting on our command. We are the crown of Creation; the fairies are inferior to us. They only come here to serve us. Whatever we want, they will do it. Our mood, attitude and demeanor are so full of cruelty and turmoil that of course storms and torrential rainfalls will occur. If the whole humankind were to become vegetarian, the world would be in peace and the Earth would change, because we are the masters and we can have anything we wish for. However, be careful what we wish for! When people become vegetarian because they want to save the Earth, they definitely have a benevolent heart. Besides, after adopting the vegetarian diet for some time, they will have greater love for animals, at least not wanting to kill or eat them. Then they will change very quickly. If humans change their mindset and display their benevolence, the fairies will also act accordingly, because the ambiance has become harmonious and gentle. And then they will say: “Oh! Now that our masters have become gentle, let us just blow softly. (Everyone laughs) Oh! Now that our masters want to have peace, we must not encourage war any more. We must not incite people to fight. Our masters want to save lives, not to take lives. Okay! Let us change the entire killing atmosphere.” Those fairies, such as the rain deity and wind deity, always listen to us. Whatever tools we give them, they will use. We give them a benevolent and peaceful atmosphere, then they will use the gentle atmosphere and the climate will become favorable. The wind deity and rain deity listen to us, but it is not that we speak audibly that we want to kill someone or create a tumultuous state. No! No! Instead, it is a kind of tool created by our vibration, which the fairies will interpret as: “My master wants to kill! My master wants war! My master wants storms and heavy rain!” That is how typhoons, earthquakes and floods occur. They are all created by humans. Now we are trying to shake the humans free of their slumber and tell them: “Hey! Wake up fast! Our house is on fire! Wake up quickly!” That is why I say the climate will change after everyone has promised to become vegetarian. It is based on this logic. We can have anything we wish for. We can turn this Earth into Heaven or hell; we can do it. We cannot blame Heaven or Earth for that. Heaven and Earth have given us all the authority, magical powers and capabilities because we are Hiers children. We have the same, more or less the same, power as our Father. It depends on what we want to do with this authority; the whole universe listens to us. Should we use this authority in another way, God gives us the free will to do so. No one can stop us, not even God. It is democracy! Of course God cannot control us. Hes gives us absolute freedom. However, if we have not learnt our lessons well, this free power may, on the other hand, hurt us. Just look at the present situation of our Earth and we will know. It is because humans have too much free power but have failed to choose the right path.
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Panorama of Events
Paraguay
Supreme Master TV for More Cable Viewers
By Paraguay News Group (Originally in Spanish)
[Ciudad del Este] Thousands of people in Paraguay are now blessed with unlimited access to Supreme Master Television on Paraná Cable TV in Ciudad del Este, the country’s second largest city. The cable company made the new addition to its TV listing, after its management and staff listened to a formal presentation by local initiates on the channel’s noble mission as well as Supreme Master Ching Hai’s teachings and message on climate change. To speed up proceedings so that the service will be available regularly to local viewers, initiates offered to contribute to purchasing the necessary equipment. An announcement of Supreme Master Television’s programs has been prepared for publication in Paraná Cable’s TV guide. The company has also arranged to interview one of our representatives to learn more about Supreme Master TV. In addition, two local taxi companies engaged in cross-border transport have joined the “Be Veg, Go Green, and Save the Planet” campaign, after their members learned about the benefits of a meat-free diet, tasted complimentary vegan food and read Master’s Sample Booklets. For one whole year, their 85 taxis will be traveling across the borders of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil bearing the slogan stickers for all to see! We thank God for bestowing such precious gifts to all the local citizens and hope that more people in Paraguay will soon be inspired to turn to a more noble way of living.
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France
Cannes International Film Festival 2009
Compiled by European News Group (Originally in English)
[Cannes] In May, Golden Year 6 (2009), fellow initiates from various countries in Europe gathered in Cannes of Southern France to promote the compassionate vegan lifestyle to visitors from all over the world during the International Film Festival. Two publicity vans displaying large posters with Master’s message in English and French, slowly toured the city of Cannes during the whole festival and attracted much attention. The guards at the gate to the press offices repeatedly expressed their appreciation for the important work the initiates were doing and allowed the initiates to meet members of the media, film producers and other VIPs to inform them about the harmful effect of the meat diet and encourage them to spread the message of vegetarianism. Some film producers and directors said that they would like to make a film about the environment while Supreme Master TV was able to interview many vegetarian participants including actress Mrs. Marianne Borgo. When learning that livestock is the main cause of Global Warming, many people including the policemen and gendarmeries were immediately in favour of helping spread the vegan message and requested more SOS flyers and DVD’s from us for their friends. The initiates were happy to discover many vegetarians attending the festival and the organizer of the Terra Festival in Guadeloupe, Mrs. Martine Sornay, has plans to bring the vegan message to this event. Thanks to Master’s wonderful arrangements, our life-saving vegan promotion was very successful.
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Russia
Using All Means
to Promote the Compassionate Lifestyle
By Moscow News Group (Originally in Russian)
[Moscow] Recently, Moscow initiates have published articles on the harmful effects of meat and the benefits of the plant based diet in the prominent newspaper “The Center Plus” that has a circulation of 1,200,000. They have distributed DVDs containing Supreme Master TV climate change programs and have talked to people whenever possible about the ultimate solution to global warming which is a vegetarian diet. On a regular basis, they go to bus stops and underground rail stations to pass out SOS flyers. Letters have also been sent to the national cable television association, the Moscow government and the President of the Russian Federation, requesting permission to air Supreme Master TV on cable television. With their sincere efforts, may more people in Moscow soon wake up to “Go veg and Save the Planet!”
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United Kingdom
A Successful Screening of
‘A Delicate Balance – the Truth’
By UK News Group (Originally in English)
[Ipswich, Canterbury] During the 2009 tour of the film ‘A Delicate Balance – the Truth’ in the UK, local initiates have been actively promoting what is a timely expose on the urgent matter of environmental crisis. On June 4, the 86-minute documentary attracted more than 50 attendees to a screening held at the High-Tech BT Research and Development Centre, Adastral Park, Ipswich. Attendees included Councillors and representatives of a number of green organizations from neighbouring towns. A positive and encouraging discussion with Aaron Scheibner, the Film Director followed the screening. Discussion covered topics such as the vegan diet, health, and environment, with many attendees requesting a screening for their own organizations. The flyer ‘Vegetarianism in Religions’ was given out by our initiates, and prompted interest from a committee member of a local church who wanted to start a discussion on this subject. ‘Greenfootsteps’, a local green organization invited the initiates to join their forum and to contribute articles on the subject of ‘Effective solutions to curb Global Warming.’ All the guests were treated to some delicious vegan snacks prepared by the initiates and took home more SOS flyers and DVDs for review. On June 28, ‘A Delicate Balance – the Truth’ was screened at ‘Good Food Café’, a vegetarian café situated in the heart of the UK’s most ancient city Canterbury. Many attendees from all walks of life actively participated in the Question & Answers session afterwards. People requested vegan recipes and asked for more related information on climate change. Several of them were eager to start a vegan lifestyle. Initiates served the vegan ‘Sunday Roast’ and offered to continue assisting at such events. It was encouraging to see the positive response from all the attendees, as many of them expressed their interest for more information and are seriously considering switching to a meat-free diet or at least cutting down their meat and dairy consumptions.
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Cameroon
Introducing the Delicacy of Tofu to the African People
By Cameroon News Group (Originally in French)
[Douala] In order to help African people become aware of the deliciousness and nutritional value of tofu, which is a rich source of protein and 100% vegan, the Douala initiates in Cameroon formed a tofu-producing team to help people transit to an earth-saving vegan diet. The team sells both raw and barbecue-flavored tofu at a discount rate so more people are willing to try it. They also hand out informative flyers on this healthy, affordable and ecological delicacy. Since soya beans are easily available in Cameroon and in light of the current food and water shortages and global warming crisis, the initiates believe that tofu will become a popular staple food for African people as more turn to the life-and resource-saving vegan diet in the near future. Delivering a Heartfelt “Thank You” to the Director of Vision Cable Company On May 27, Golden Year 6 (2009), Douala initiates visited Vision Cable Company in Douala, Cameroon, to deliver a Thank You letter from Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association to the Director, Mr. Jean Charles Job. The Thank You letter was given in recognition of Vision Cable Company’s noble decision to include Supreme Master Television to their transmission system, thus making it available to thousands of households in Africa. Mr. Job was extremely grateful for this touching gesture of gratitude from Master. He displayed great joy upon receiving this letter along with two French copies of Master’s bestselling book, The Birds in My Life and some yummy vegan sweets. He said that such a good-willed gesture fortifies mutual trust and offers even greater encouragement to him. Caption: Mr. Jean Charles Job, Director of Vision Cable Company (second from right)
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Mongolia
Visiting Remote Areas to Spread the Truth
By Mongolia News Group (Originally in Mongolian)
[Mongolia] Recently, local initiates had the honour to meet with Mongolia’s new Democratic President Elbegdorj Tsakhia during his Presidential election campaign. They graciously presented him Master’s sample booklet, SOS and AL flyers, a handbook on Global Warming and Vegetarianism published by Mongolian initiates. In May, fellow initiates organized a seminar for Mongolian railway staff and their family members and relatives in Ulaanbaatar. Through visual presentations, they introduced Supreme Master Ching Hai’s life and teachings, the Quan Yin Method of meditation as well as the connection between global warming and vegetarianism. Another similar seminar was held for the railway doctors and physicians. As a result of these two seminars, a new vegetarian restaurant was opened in the railway hotel, Gan Zam, on May 29, Golden Year 6 (2009)! During a ten-day period in April 2009, eight members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai Association Mongolia Center traveled 600 kilometers to the remote province of Bayankhongor and to the smaller township of Kharkhorin. Seminars on global warming’s causes, consequences and solutions plus vegetarian cooking classes were presented and the convenient method was taught to 648 people. More than 200 truth-seekers expressed their sincere interest for initiation while 62 people immediately applied for initiation and became vegetarian. A contribution from the initiates provided a television, library and DVD player for the Bayankhongor meditation center. Civil and Public Institutions, and the media were invited to the seminars and initiates were interviewed by local television in Bayankhongor. The wondrous results from this trip have inspired further travels to the remote rural areas of Mongolia to continue spreading Master’s teachings and love.
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India
Beautiful Interactions with Noble People
By Formosa News Group (Originally in Chinese)
[New Delhi] The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) in New Delhi, India, is dedicated to developing sustainable technology to address environmental and energy problems. Dr. Rajendra K. Pachauri, the founder and Director-General of the Institute, is also the Chairman of the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007. In February Golden Year 6 (2009), our Association members from Taichung, Formosa, visited TERI to convey Master’s greetings. With the earnest assistance from TERI’s Corporate Communications Manager Mr. Rajiv Chhibber, we extended Master’s kind intentions to Dr. Pachauri and presented him with Master’s gifts of Her books Celestial Art and The Noble Wilds. Dr. Pachauri expressed his willingness to hold a climate change videoconference in India to discuss solutions to the global warming crisis. We also presented the Celestial Art book and introduced Supreme Master Television to Mr. Chhibber. In the following week, we visited TERI University, with Mr. Chhibber kindly giving us a tour of the ingenious “green” facilities on campus. During an interview with Supreme Master Television, Mr. Chhibber said that he found the book Celestial Art and Supreme Master Television truly touching and enjoyable, and he expressed great respect for Supreme Master Ching Hai. “The book is very intriguing and knowledgeable,” he said. After reading it, he wanted very much to visit Hsihu Center to personally experience the intense celestial and spiritual power there. He was also awed by Master’s great endeavours in elevating the world’s lifestyle and the important small tips that She provides, from which he hopes the world would benefit and be enlightened. He also mentioned that his wife loved Master’s artistic creations and thought that every woman should possess at least one piece of the Celestial Jewellery in her lifetime! Dr. Pachauri liked the book Celestial Art very much and promised to try the lifestyle and spiritual techniques it mentioned. He also said that he would like to visit Hsihu Center despite his busy schedule. Dr. Pachauri gave the book to the TERI University’s library and recommended that all the students read this wonderful book and put all the good, beautiful meanings conveyed in the book into real-life practice. Mr. Chhibber could deeply feel the positive energy brought by Supreme Master Television and he encouraged us to broadcast its programs in schools and on national television. He frequently visited SupremeMasterTV.com and shared the constructive programming with his friends, relatives and colleagues. At the end of the interview, Mr. Chhibber said, “I would really like to meet Supreme Master Ching Hai once. Even for two minutes, I don’t mind!” He also hoped that his family would adopt the spiritual lifestyle as imparted by Master. Master was very touched upon knowing about this interaction and expressed Her sincere greetings and gratitude to Dr. Pachauri and Mr. Chhibber, welcoming them to visit Hsihu Center at any time. Through such interactions with noble beings, more people will receive God’s message and quickly adopt the compassionate lifestyle to bring Eden back on Earth again! Caption: TERI’s Corporate Communications Manager Mr. Rajiv Chhibber
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Malaysia
The Official Launch of The Realization of Health
By Kuala Lumpur News Group (Originally in English)
[Kuala Lumpur] The modern day health and nutrition classic The Realization of Health authored by Supreme Master Ching Hai was officially launched at the Read Malaysia 2009 held at the Malaysia International Exhibition & Convention Centre. Endorsed by the Malaysian Education Ministry, the Book Fair lasted ten days from May 29 to June 7, Golden Year 6 (2009), attracted hundreds of publishing houses, book distributors and educational products suppliers, as well as about 400,000 visitors, making it one of the largest Book Fairs in the region. Apart from introducing to the public the Chinese and English versions of The Realization of Health, our Association members from Kuala Lumpur also promoted Master’s best-selling books and showcased many colorful products from Love Ocean Creative International. With special permission from the organizers, Association members from other states and Singapore were allowed to distribute SOS flyers, DVDs as well as special booklets to appeal to fellow Malaysians to adopt a plant-based diet in view of the dire situation of the planet. In addition, a series of stage activities were also organized to inform and entertain the guests during the ten-day event, including presentations on global warming and nutrition, vegan cooking shows and food tasting, dancing, and a Yoga and Shao Lin kung-fu demonstration. The highlight of our Association members’ participation in this Book Fair was a press conference, held on June 6, to officially launch The Realization of Health in the presence of local TV stations and newspaper media as well as Supreme Master TV. Guest speakers including the President of the Malaysian Vegetarian Society, Mr. P. Vythilingam; the principal of the Natural Homeopathy Care Center, Dr Joean Oon; the Chairman of the Malaysian Meatless Day Campaign Committee, Mr. Pishu Murli Hassaram; and a certified Nutritionist and Health Consultant, Mr. Chong Fat Eng delivered very profound and insightful comments on this book. All agreed that Master has much to offer to the world due to Her compassion, love and deep concern for the welfare of all beings on Earth. As a gesture of appreciation to the gracious speakers and their contribution to the event, our Association members gave each of them a set of gifts. All participants were treated to a tasty and healthy vegan buffet provided by the local Loving Hut restaurant. The ten-day book fair ended with great success. The organizers and other exhibitors came to the fellow initiates’ booth to express their gratitude for their participation. They thank Master for Her divine love, presence and guidance in all that they proposed to do during the Book Fair.
Making Vegan Cakes
By Johore Bahru News Group (Originally in Chinese)
[Johore Bahru] To encourage more people to adopt the vegan diet, and to show them how easy it is to make delectable cakes and snacks without using eggs or milk, on June 28, Golden Year 6 (2009), our local Center held a cooking class at Tadika Mulia Kindergarten. We taught, free of charge, how to make vegan pizza, vegan banana muffins, vegan cheese and the children’s favorite, vegan fruity ice cream. The benefits of the animal-free diet and the harm that eggs and milk cause to our body were also explained. In addition, pamphlets containing these recipes and those of other vegan delicacies were prepared for everyone. Some guests especially requested more copies of the recipes to share with their relatives and friends.
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Singapore
“Climate Change - What is in It for YOUth and Me”
By Singapore News Group (Originally in English)
[Singapore] On May 23, Golden Year 6 (2009),The Youth Executives Committees (YECs) in Sembawang GRC and Nee Soon Central SMC jointly organized a policy forum, entitled “Climate Change - What is in it for YOUth and me?” at The Jelutung Community Club in Singapore. The Forum was initiated by The People’s Association Youth Movement (PAYM), seeking to increase the awareness and knowledge of participants on current environmental issues. At the event, Dr. Khoo Hsien Hui, a researcher and invited speaker for several climate change topics, delivered a presentation titled “Climate change: greenhouse gas emissions from food”, followed by a video from Supreme Master Television. She explained that the most immediate and cost-effective way to stop global warming is to go on a meat-free diet and stressed that for decades, we have been taking from Mother Earth without much consideration, and it is time we pay attention to Mother Earth’s “distress signals” sent through the atmosphere, weather and sea. She took the opportunity to introduce the video “A Delicate Balance- the Truth” to the audience. Materials on livestock’s contribution to climate change and SOS Flyers were also distributed. Inspired by the presentation and the video from Supreme Master Television, the chairman of the forum, Dr. Lim Wee Kiak, who is also the Adviser to Canberra Grassroots Organizations (GROs) and Member of Parliament (MP) for Sembawang GRC, showed his support by suggesting “vegetarian once a week”, as one of the solutions to reduce global warming. Thank you, Dr. Lim for your support. May more concerned citizens in Singapore answer your call to join the movement of going veg to save the planet. Related link: http://www.paym.org.sg/1222614208104.html
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Hong Kong
Reaching Out to the Public Effectively
By Hong Kong News Group (Originally in English)
[Hong Kong] To ensure that the message of global warming and its root solution, a compassionate vegan lifestyle, reaches a lot of people effectively, fellow initiates have advertised through a variety of media channels. On Hong Kong commercial radio a 20 second announcement was aired ten times per day for a month in May, Golden Year 6 (2009). The radio station reaches 1.7 million people. From late February till May 3, there were 3,392 electronic panel announcement aired 75 times daily in the Mass Transit Railway (MTR) Info Panel Network that carries an average of 2.6 million passengers every day. The panels informed the public about the urgency of global warming and that a vegan diet is the main answer to saving the planet. Touched by initiates’ sincerity in spreading this important message, the MTR extended the advertising time from 20 seconds to 27 seconds without any additional charge. The announcement ran for ten weeks and has become a subject of discussion for many people. It is a topic for discussion on various Internet forums. Over the same time period, another announcement was placed in one of the most prestigious and influential newspapers in Hong Kong, the Economic Journal (HKEJ) for four weeks. This newspaper is well read by high local Government officials, CEOs and managers in the business and financial circles including those in Beijing and many provinces in China. On June 5, World Environmental Day, HKEJ invited initiates to sponsor a special section on the environment for only 10% of the regular fee. A full-page eye-catching article on climate change was published. It is seen mounted and displayed in at least one vegetarian restaurant for their customers. May God bless all endeavors to inform the people about climate change and a simple solution, the vegan diet.
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Japan
Raising Global Warming Awareness
By Tokyo News Group (Originally in Japanese)
[Tokyo] Tokyo Loving Hut celebrated its first anniversary in June 2009 giving complimentary lunchboxes to the first 20 customers for one month. This generous gesture helped cultivate new concepts of a meat-free diet among people. A lucky customer was won over by the delicious flavor of vegan food and pleasantly surprised to find that he was contributing to the betterment of the Earth’s environment. Another vegan first-timer was so impressed with the vegetarian meat that she expressed an interest in changing her diet. The complimentary lunch project had been preceded by Loving Hut’s participation in the Earth Day 2009 activities at Tokyo Meiji Park on May 30 and 31. The restaurant provided delicious vegan food and its staff handed out free SOS flyers and DVDs, as well as information on healthy living and the latest updates on the swine flu. People were asked to take immediate action to fight global warming. The response was positive. A university lecturer said that he would show his students the SOS DVD and help them adapt to a vegetarian or vegan diet. Two members from Asia-Pacific Youth Network talked enthusiastically about their intention to lead a vegetarian lifestyle and to spread the news in Japan. The Loving Hut restaurant staff felt encouraged to see that more people in Japan have become aware of the global warming issue and they will continue working to spread the news to every corner of the country.
Bringing the Vegan Diet into Everyday Life
By Gunma News Group (Originally in Japanese)
[Gunma] In order to help more people understand the importance and significance of the plant- based diet, on May 30, Golden Year 6 (2009), our Gunma Center held a seminar at a vegan café in Tsumagoi Village, Gunma Prefecture. The event began with an introduction of the vegan lifestyle by the owner of the vegan café, who also spoke on how global warming is directly related to animal husbandry. A video about climate change was shown, highlighting food and water shortages around the world. Fellow initiates and guests then enjoyed a beautifully prepared vegan feast along with light-hearted conversation. An American now living in Japan who is interested in Japanese culture was amazed to see some Japanese attendees dressed in kimonos. While traditional kimonos are made of silk, those worn at the seminar were made of animal-free fibers, yet the fabrics were so vibrant and colorful that they became the center of attention. Everyone was particularly impressed by the delectable Japanese vegan delicacies. Some loved the cheerful and harmonious ambience at the venue, and are looking forward to participating in similar activities in the future. After the seminar, many guests purchased vegan food to be enjoyed at home. We know that the plant-based lifestyle is the most effective way to address the global warming crisis, but the truth was shocking for people who had never received such information before. They are now willing to take the most crucial step toward protecting the environment by making the vegan diet a part of their everyday life.
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Korea
Happy Veg Trend Continues
in South Korea
Compiled By Korea News Group (Originally in Korean)
The Opening of Loving Hut Restaurants [Korea] Inspired by Supreme Master Ching Hai’s motivation in bringing loving, joyful and cruelty-free meals to people’s dining tables, the Korean initiates opened the first Loving Hut in their country in December 2008 in Busan. Since then, three more Loving Hut restaurants were opened in Ulsan, Seoul and Jeju Island. The Loving Hut, in the biggest Korean industrial city, Ulsan, has been thriving and filled with many customers since its opening in April. In Seoul, Loving Hut is located at a hot spot in Shinchon, right in front of Yon Sei University, where many young students from near universities like to hang out. Customers were pleasantly surprised at the colorful, delicious and affordable food, and enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere. Some expressed their wish to see more vegan restaurants spread out in the country, thus increasing the vegan population. Since Jeju Island is a world famous tourist destination, the newly opened Loving Hut appeals to the highly environment-conscious Jeju citizens and attracts worldwide tourists. May all Loving Hut restaurants continue to prosper and spread the compassionate vegan lifestyle. Inspiring Parents and Teachers to be Vegans [Busan] On May 26, Golden Year 6 (2009), fellow initiates held a lecture on the benefits of a vegan diet on children and the environment at Baek Yang primary school in Busan. Thanks to the active support of the school, many parents attended the lecture. They listened attentively to the speakers and were touched by initiates’ genuine concern about global warming. They were impressed by the tasty vegan lunch boxes served after the lecture and some of them even asked where to buy such healthy and delicious food. Many parents and school staff members voiced their gratitude for the event and some of them expressed their wish to be vegetarian. On June 16, the initiates held another SOS Global Warming video lecture and vegan buffet, this time at Geummyeong Middle School. Thirty parents and 55 teachers attended the lecture. The Vice-Principal and many teachers of the school expressed their gratitude and admiration to the dedication and selfless service of the initiates and a domestic science teacher took many pictures of the colorful food to be used as teaching materials in his class. Everyone enjoyed being a part of the noble mission of saving the planet. Bringing Master’s Teachings to More People in Kim Hae [Kim Hae] On May 31, a video seminar on Master's teachings was held in Kim Hae Cultural Center. The initiates put up many posters and distributed flyers on the days leading up to this important event. As a result, many people attended the seminar and watched the SOS global warming film and a Master's lecture from 2000. After having the vegetarian lunch, 16 people stayed to learn the convenient method of meditation and many of them had good experiences with visions due to God’s blessing. May more people join our Quan Yin family and bring more light into this world. Seoul International Book Fair [Seoul] Master’s books The Dogs in My Life, The Birds in My Life, and The Noble Wilds were brought to the Seoul International Book Fair from May 13 to May 17, and attracted numerous visitors. After reading The Dogs in My Life, a girl commented, “Lucky - when he was red-fruit colored, was so cute and pretty.” She added, “From now on I will not eat any animals and start eating things like tofu and vegetables.” Many people spent a long time watching the DVD showing the loving interaction between Master and Her animal companions. Fellow initiates also distributed SOS fliers and explained to the visitors the relationship between vegetarianism and global warming, which received positive responses. A Veg Sampling Event From May 11 to 13, at the Students Festival in Seoul National University, fellow initiates set up a vegan booth to serve delicious earth-friendly food. It’s the third year in a row the initiates have participated in this event. The university really supports the idea of healthy eating and it offers vegetarian meals each Wednesday in its cafeteria. A community of students has become interested in this alternative, compassionate and sustainable diet. A Food Industry Exhibition [Daegu] For the third consecutive year, initiates from Daegu Center participated in the Daegu International Food Industry Exhibition, running from June 11 through June 14. The event took place in Exco, the largest exhibition complex in Daegu. They promoted vegan soy meat and other meat substitute products, displayed vegan foods, and showcased Supreme Master Ching Hai’s books. SOS flyers and CDs were distributed freely. Countless people visited their booth to sample vegan soy meat, organic vegan cookies as well as vegan cakes. Many were eager to learn new recipes. The visitors, including several Catholic nuns and Buddhist monks asked questions and showed great interest in the vegan diet and the Quan Yin Method of Meditation. Master’s books attracted many people, especially children, who were reluctant to leave. Serving Vegan Meals at National Ping Pong Championship [Hongchun] The 17th Citizen’s National Ping Pong Championship took place in Hongchun Public Stadium in Hongchun county, Gangwon province on May 9 and 10. Initiates from Wonju Center provided 642 servings of the vegan meal for the participants. Because of animal related diseases and outbreaks such as swine flu, avian flu and mad cow disease, there is a pervading awareness that vegetarianism is good for health and many people happily enjoyed vegan meals, saying this is the way they should eat and live. Some people expressed their gratefulness for being able to eat such clean food after the ping pong matches. The president of Gyounggi Ping Pong Association was so inspired that he asked initiates to help him open vegetarian restaurants. His request was met with enthusiastic support from the initiates who thanked God for successfully sowing the seeds of compassionate living in this small town. Radio Stations Join the Movement of Saving the Earth In the month of May and June, with the help of powerful media, initiates were able to bring the urgent message of global warming to a large audience over Korean radio. On May 13, two initiates were invited to talk on vegetarianism for 25 minutes through Gwangju MBC radio’s “Women’s Era.” Another initiate had a chance to speak on the same issue on Busan’s Buddhist Broadcast Station. From June 1 to 7, SBS radio, one of the major Korean broadcasting stations, aired a one-minute speech twice every day about the environment and vegetarianism through its popular show, “One World Through Love.” This program is beloved for its contribution to turning the world into a brighter place through positive messages. Our initiates were invited to address topics like, “We are one with the environment” and “Meat is the main cause of global warming.” They encouraged all the listeners to take an active part in the solution of the current planetary crisis. On June 28, at the Ajar Ajar Fan Gathering Event with DJ Churi hosted by SBS Radio, our initiates gave a lecture on global warming and provided a delicious vegan buffet for about 150 fans. Many audiences including DJ Churi showed their strong intention to join the noble cause of stopping global warming by being vegetarian. Ajar Ajar with DJ Churi is a popular live show broadcasted from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends interacting with about 100,000 fans nationwide through text messaging. The Korean initiates thanked Master and all the radio stations who gave them the wonderful opportunities to publicize the impact of global warming and promote vegetarianism.
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| Panorama of Events
Indonesia
Spreading the SOS Message
with Happiness and Enthusiasm
By Jakarta News Group (Originally in Indonesian)
[Indonesia] From April to June, Golden Year 6 (2009), Jakarta Center fellow initiates have taken on one project after another to tirelessly promote the message of saving the planet from the destruction of global warming through adopting a vegan diet. Holding Global Warming Seminars On April 4, the initiates traveled to Jambi City, a remote community on Central Sumatra Island, to conduct presentations on global warming for Father St. Sumardi, SCJ at Saint Theresia Church and several nuns at Saint Theresia Hospital, who then invited them to present the information to the Catholic schools and nurses in their region. The next day, at the Hotel Abadi, Kajanglako, they gave a similar seminar to about 120 guests. The event was broadcasted by Televisi Republik Indonesia (TVRI) Station Jambi in the afternoon. Several days later, many guests including Mrs. Nofrida, host for Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI) in Jambi, were so impressed by the validity of the content of the seminar and confirmed that they had already switched to the plant-based diet, and they also requested vegetarian recipes to share with their families and friends. On April 19, fellow initiates visited a Sikh Temple in Jakarta on Khalsa Day, an occasion which requires everyone to keep a vegetarian diet. After the global warming presentation, they demonstrated how to make biopori, a way to compost organic garbage in a deep hole which also functions to collect water to avoid flooding. A mother and her little daughter told the initiates that they were regular viewers of Supreme Master TV and as a result, have become vegetarians. On May 12, the initiates invited over 200 teachers and students from high schools and universities in Cirebon City, West Java of Indonesia, to an informative climate change seminar held at the Apita Hotel, where the Head of Environment for Cirebon City, Dr. H. Iskukuh urged all the participants to partake in solving the problem of global warming by choosing a plant-based diet. From the selected Supreme Master TV programs, many participants learned about the urgency of global warming for the first time, and some eagerly asked initiates to bring the message to their schools. All enjoyed the free vegan lunch that they provided. The media, Mitra Dialog, Pikiran Rakyat, Radar Cirebon and Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI), covered the event. On May 29, by invitation from one of the participants of the Cirebon seminar, initiates went to BPK Penabur Elementary School to share the global warming message with about 120 grade six students and their teachers, and received enthusiastic feedback. Providing Vegan Food at the Scout Jamboree >From June 8 to 10, fellow initiates provided about 2,000 vegan meal boxes to about 1,278 students and teachers at the annual scout jamboree gathering at Bumi Perkemahan Cibubur, South of Jakarta. Their food was welcomed and appreciated by the many participants and some asked for their recipes to try at home. The initiates were also allowed to play the global warming related programs from Supreme Master TV as well as distribute SOS flyers and DVDs during the event. Forming a Vegan Society in Indonesia (VSI) On June 21, when the world was celebrating its first Vegan Earth Day and Father’s Day, our local Association members and the Indonesia Vegetarian Society (IVS) established the Vegan Society Indonesia (VSI). In celebration of this, a ceremony, attended by more than 40 vegan aspirants, was held at Chang Sow Veg Restaurant, North Jakarta. The VSI have put into the agenda a 3-year and a 10-year plan to promote veganism in Indonesia as the fastest way to curb global warming. They also set up a working committee to coordinate the first vegan fest, Vegan and Green Festival 2010, in Jakarta. Indonesian Environment Week 2009 Jakarta Center initiates set up a booth at the Jakarta Convention Center, during the 13th Indonesian Environment Week 2009. From May 28 to 31, fellow initiates took turns to distribute SOS flyers and explain to the visitors the foremost solution to global warming, the plant-based diet. Many teachers and students invited them to their schools to give talks on this topic, and the initiates ended up with a global warming seminar schedule for the next two months. They also played selected programs from Supreme Master TV, which attracted many passers-bys, and handed out about 1,000 free vegan meal boxes. All of the Jakarta fellow initiates were so happy and energized by this work to spread the SOS global warming news to their people. They thank Master for Her infinite love and blessing in doing this great work.
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| Panorama of Events
Formosa
Holding Vegan Cooking Classes
to Promote Vegan Lunches in Schools
By Nantou News Group (Originally in Chinese)
[Nantou] The Nantou County Government has always given full support to mitigate global warming through an animal-free diet as sumptuous vegetarian meals are provided twice a month at the County Government Office canteen. Schools have also been encouraged to serve vegetarian lunches once a week under the free nutritious lunch policy for elementary and junior high schools. In a show of support, our Nantou Center held vegan cooking classes for elementary school cooking staff during the summer vacation, aiming to promote the organic, low carbon and animal-free diet among young students. We especially invited a senior dietician from Changhua Christian Hospital, Ms. Chen Mei-ying, to work with us in designing a nutritionally balanced lunch menu for elementary school students when the new school term begins. This is part of an effort to support the “One Meat-free Day Each Week” and “Try the Meat-free Every Day” projects aimed at providing scientific basis for parents and teachers to understand the animal-free diet provides sufficient nutrients for the students’ growth on top of being the best solution for global warming.
Online viewing of the vegan cooking class and requesting for recipes:
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| Panorama of Events
Puerto Rico
Recognized for Being Instruments of Peace
By Puerto Rico News Group (Originally in English)
[Puerto Rico] On May 29, Golden Year 6 (2009), the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association in Puerto Rico was honored for its contribution to creating a peaceful atmosphere in the country. It was among several organizations selected by the Violence Prevention Commission (COPREVI) of the University of Puerto Rico-Cayey campus in its movement entitled “We are Instruments of Peace.” The Puerto Rico Center has taken significant actions to inform people that the fastest way to create peace is to refrain from causing harm to other beings, and one of the most effective ways to achieve that is by following an animal-free diet. They have shared with the public other benefits of the plant-based diet, such as better health, saving millions of dollars on health care, conserving land and water resources, stopping deforestation, and eliminating world hunger. COPREVI reviewed the Center’s activities on distributing information about global warming, teaching the Quan Yin Method of meditation without charge, and introducing Supreme Master Television that is freely accessible via the Internet and satellite. To express their appreciation for our Association members’ firm commitment to improve society, COPREVI conferred a Certificate of Recognition on the Puerto Rico Center and listed the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association among participating organizations in the peace movement in its magazine, Noticias Paz (Peace News). The Puerto Rico Center also had the opportunity to disseminate Master’s message on the vegetarian lifestyle and introduce their services in a radio program, dedicated to organizations participating in the peace campaign, hosted by Mrs. Lilly Zeller from “Hablando de Filantropia” (Talking about Philanthropy). The recognition ceremony was an uplifting experience for the Puerto Rico initiates as they met people of all ages who were volunteering their time and effort for the benefit of society. They are very grateful for the opportunity to be the instruments in carrying out Master’s noble work in their little corner of the world. Reference link about the peace campaign: http://www.uprm.edu/news/articles/as2009032en.html
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| Panorama of Events
USA
The Noble Mission of Saving the Planet Continues
Compiled by USA News Group (Originally in English)
[Boston] On May 3, Golden Year 6 (2009), local Association members joined in the Massachusetts “Walk for Hunger” founded by Project Bread. Walking with 44,000 people, our Association members were referred to as the “vegetable walkers,” wearing Alternative Living T-shirts and straw hats decorated with vegetables and fruits. Some walkers offered to help distribute Alternative Living/SOS flyers and held signs. Most people were grateful to receive the valuable information and some had their picture taken with the vegetable walkers. At the end of the day there were many tired legs and lots of uplifted spirits! On June 6, the Center was invited to serve vegan food at the first Dance for World Community Festival on Harvard Street. A week later, they joined the 30th annual Cambridge River Festival along the banks of the Charles River. The vegan foods sold out very quickly. Many visitors shared concerns about global warming and applauded the initiates’ selfless effort. Two young men were delighted to receive information on the Quan Yin Method, as one of them had experienced a moment of enlightenment while the other was not satisfied with his current meditation method. On June 28, at the 6th Asian Festival in Worcester, the Boston initiates shared with guests the News Magazines in different languages, Master’s video tapes, DVDs as well as various informative flyers. The Buddha Hut restaurant, run by the initiates, became the most popular spot at the event. The positive feedback received made the initiates realize how important it is to continue to inform the public about the truths of climate change and the noble mission of saving the planet. Sowing Positive Seeds [Chicago] Celebrating the beautiful July 4 weekend, a group of nine jovial Chicago initiates brought the SOS climate change message to “Taste of Chicago,” a 10-day food fest that attracts up to 3 million people each year. Holding up pro-green signs and wearing animal costumes, they greeted festival-goers at the entrance and distributed flyers. Many cheered to express their support. In supporting the “National Veggie Hotdog Month” of July declared by Compassion Over Killing, an animal advocacy organization, the Chicago initiates offered 500 samples of meatless BBQ beef kabobs to pedestrians in front of the famous Water Tower Place. On this busy tourist corner downtown, people enjoyed the delicious treats prepared by Alice and Friends’ Vegetarian Cafe, a vegan restaurant run by our initiates, and were surprised by their tasty flavor. Initiates felt greatly encouraged when two vegan employees from an environmental-friendly shop stepped out to give them warm handshakes, hugs and gifts and to take pictures with them. Loving Hut Chosen as the Favorite Food Vendor [Orlando] In an effort to spread the vegan option and Master's urgent message, Loving Hut in Orlando participated in many local events in May. After catering to the Orlando Museum of Art for its First Thursday’s event, Loving Hut joined the Fringe Festival from May 14 to 24. It was a favorite spot for performers and event-goers late at night. On the rainy days, the fair organizers allowed Loving Hut to set up inside the main theater to sell foods to their fans. At the end of the fair, Loving Hut was chosen as the Favorite Food Vendor of the 2009 Patrons Choice Awards. The vegan performance artist Brian Feldman presented himself as an award; agreeing to stage a performance art piece at Loving Hut. Promoting a Healthy Lifestyle at Local Fairs [Michigan] From May 1 to 3, Michigan initiates participated in the second annual Green Street Fair in downtown Plymouth. In a friendly and family-oriented outdoor environment, they distributed SOS flyers, sold shopping bags and gathered many signatures for the petition to add Supreme Master Television to mainstream media cable and satellite networks. Many people stopped to ask questions about the flyer and were glad to know the connection between global warming and animal farming. A 12-year-old girl asked for a “Be Veg Go Green” sticker and said she wanted to be a vegetarian. A long-time vegan thanked Master for promoting veganism and said she wished there were more groups like ours. The fair was a big success allowing initiates to reach many of the 100,000 visitors. On June 20, Michigan initiates eagerly prepared the “SOS Save the Planet” exhibit for the Raw Vegan Eco-Festival 2009 held in the serene and beautiful park “Nature’s Haven” near Brighton. Situated in a busy spot, initiates handed out promotional items related to SOS climate change to almost every passerby at their booth. The urgent message prompted much discussion and one man began reading the “Vegetarianism in Religion” flyer aloud to his friends, then excitedly exclaimed, “Wow, wow, wow!” Some people were interested in Master, asking, “Who is the beautiful lady?” Others said they had watched Supreme Master Television. Thanks to the Divine Grace, more people expressed their intention to improve their personal health and the health of the planet with a vegan diet. A Parade of Veggie Pride [New York] Viva Veggie Society, a New York-based, long-term advocate for vegetarianism, held the second annual Veggie Pride Parade on May 17. In support of this noble cause, the New York Center and other local centers along the east coast joined the parade. Nearly a thousand vegetarians and vegans from more than 40 organizations gathered at the Old Meat District in Greenwich Village, holding signs and banners and wearing self-designed costumes to demonstrate their veggie pride. Many participants emphasized livestock’s impact on global warming. The “Farm Animal Rights Movement” team members covered their faces with medical masks and put on pig noses to remind parade watchers the link between swine flu and meat consumption. The parade ended at Union Square Park, a famous site for social and political activism since the 1800s, where vegan bands played music and notable vegans and vegetarians spoke. Lots of vegan vendors gave out free samples. The New York mayoral candidate Tony Avella came and committed to support one meatless day a week. The event ended with the screening of the documentary film “Meat the Truth.” The initiates were glad to work together with other communities to help more people join the veggie circle. Promoting the Vegan Diet in Ocean Beach [San Diego] The Ocean Beach Street Fair and Chili Cook-off took place on June 27 in the beautiful town Ocean Beach in San Diego. At a booth decorated with Master’s photos and a big banner carrying the “Be Veg, Go Green, Save the Planet” slogan, our Association members passed out thousands of SOS flyers, about 500 vegan recipe books and 400 shopping bags. They also gathered many signatures to support making Supreme Master TV available on mainstream cable and satellite networks. It was a successful and uplifting day for all who took part. Raising Public Awareness through Local Events [San Francisco] The Golden Era Vegetarian Restaurant, owned and operated by local initiates in San Francisco, participated in the fifth annual Asian Heritage Street Celebration in May and the Eco-Urban Festival in June. Each event attracted over 80,000 attendees. A delicious array of sumptuous vegan entrees was offered to the public with promotional materials. All were warmly welcomed by adults and children alike. Many were also introduced to Supreme Master Television’s enriching shows, and many people gladly signed a petition to have the channel made available on cable. At the Eco-Urban Festival, little children hugged initiates dressed in fun animal costumes, their glee bringing smiles all around. Almost everyone the initiates spoke to knew someone who was a vegetarian, or were vegetarians themselves, which testified to Master’s statement that the critical mass has been reached! A Meaningful Vegan Party [South Carolina] On June 28, the North Carolina and South Carolina Centers jointly celebrated the first Vegan Earth Day in the Lounge of Golden Green Hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina. The hotel is known for its environmental-friendly features, having the entire property smoke-free and the lounge serving only non-alcohol drinks. Its owners are planning to open a vegan restaurant in the hotel in the near future. Hotel guests arriving from around the world for a convention came to celebrate. Business associates of the hotel as well as its employees and their families were also invited to join the party. Everyone had the opportunity to sample the delicious vegan food and non-alcoholic drinks. An engaged couple was so impressed by the tasty food that they are considering serving vegan food at their wedding reception. They were immediately introduced to Mrs. Nancy Robinson, author of vegan cook book Around the World Vegan Style, who also prepared many of the delicious foods for the party. All the participants had a good time at this meaningful event.
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The Capital Pride Parade and Festival [Washington, DC] On June 13 and 14, fellow initiates from Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey and Pennsylvania participated in the Capital Pride Parade and Festival, which attracted more than 200,000 people in Washington, DC. During the parade, many vegetarians and vegans were excited to see our group and the promoting banners and signs. People came to the Association’s booth to ask for vegetarian recipes, information about local vegetarian restaurants, and the Quan Yin Sample Booklet. Some expressed their willingness to be completely vegetarian for the rest of their lives and vegetarian parents said they would like to help their children become vegetarian. Hundreds of them were very happy to sign the petition to enable Supreme Master Television to be broadcast on cable, making it possible for its programs to reach more viewers in the US. Overall, about 10,000 SOS flyers and over 1,000 promotional items were distributed. A Well Received Community Seminar [San Jose] On May 16, San Jose held an SOS Climate Change Public Seminar at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s Library, adjacent to the San Jose State University campus. More than 60 guests came from various cities in the Bay Area, and many library patrons and college students walked in to enjoy this event as well. Participants received informative material on climate change and enjoyed the well-prepared presentation. A translation service was provided for senior Chinese attendees upon request. One gentleman said afterwards that this seminar helped to clarify how much water is actually used to produce a hamburger, and agreed that everyone can make a difference to the world by making changes to their diet, one bite at a time. Another guest expressed how astonished he felt upon knowing the speed at which Arctic ice is melting, adding that he understood the urgency and potential harm of the massive amount of methane underneath the ocean floor. With permission from the library, the initiates brought delicious vegan appetizers for seminar attendees to enjoy. Loving Hut Opens in a Californian Shopping Mall On May 24, northern California celebrated the grand opening of the fourth Loving Hut Restaurant in the greater Bay Area, located in San Jose’s Westfield Oakridge Shopping Center, which is one of the top five malls in the area with more than 200 retail stores. Attending VIPs included former Milpitas Mayor Jose Esteves, San Jose City Council Members Ash Kalra and Kansen Chu. Accompanying Councilman Chu was his lovely wife, Mrs. Daisy Chu. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, all the guests enjoyed a vegan buffet in a friendly and loving atmosphere. All were very receptive to the message that vegetarianism is beneficial both to human health and the health of our precious planet. Being an active advocate for the environment and nutrition programs, former Mayor Esteves had been present at the opening of the Loving Hut in Milpitas and praised the vegan food as “the right food to eat” since it is “the future for a healthy environment.” He stated that governments should end subsidies for meat and use the funds for vegetable production and the promotion of vegetarian nutrition. He encouraged everyone to start trying this alternative diet - right now or as soon as possible, with both Councilmen Chu and Karla also expressing their support. The opening ceremony attracted a large crowd. Many new curious customers stopped by to taste the vegan cuisine and praised the food for its exquisite flavors and affordable prices. Within three months of opening, the restaurant has frequent loyal customers and has received a four-star rating on the online restaurant review site “Yelp.com” The Loving Hut work team witnessed many miracles while setting up the restaurant. Although the team was relatively inexperienced and without extensive capital, the mall’s leasing manager contacted them as soon as the space was available and they obtained a fully equipped kitchen free of charge! In addition, they were able to completely remodel the area in just one month and have the restaurant ready to operate in less than 36 hours, after passing the health inspection. On July 9, the restaurant received an excellent review entitled “Loving Hut boasts variety of vegan fast-food dishes” in the Mercury News, the largest newspaper in Silicon Valley. This brought a new string of customers to the restaurant. The Loving Hut working team also participated in the “veggie dog giveaway” event sponsored by PETA. They have learned that positive thinking and having faith in Master power are the key to success.
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| Story Warehouse
Doing Our Best to Inform the World
about Global Warming
By brother initiate Little Tree, Cameroon (Originally in Chinese)
On August 29, Golden Year 5 (2008), during a meeting with Master at St. Martin Center, a fellow sister from South Africa mentioned her interactions with a lumber company in Cameroon, from which she and I had borrowed a car to shoot a Supreme Master Television program in Gabon, west central Africa. The company owner, Mr. Zhang, has been my good friend for many years and was my colleague for a while. When we first became acquainted, he noticed that I was a vegetarian. Later, as he learned more about Master and the benefits of the vegetarian diet, he joined me in eating vegetarian meals and was very respectful of Master. During our work together, knowing that I was following Master and keeping the five precepts, he had a high regard for me and trustfully placed more than a million US dollars in my care. We remained very good friends after we each went our own way. Mr. Zhang has a very good impression of our group and has frequently asked me to recommend our fellow initiates to work in his company. Ever since Master raised the alert on global warming, I have been emailing relevant information to Mr. Zhang and have also sent him the SOS flyer and DVD. Many times on the phone, I talked to him about the critical situation of the Earth. Recently, he suddenly told me that he was busy winding up his investment in the lumber industry in Gabon and preparing to switch to some other business. I was overjoyed to hear this good news! Just as Master has said, many people eat meat or engage in logging, contributing to climate change and harming the environment, not because they are really bad, but because they do not know the truth or are driven by circumstance. If we let them know the truth, they will gradually understand. For over a year, I have been emailing information to Mr. Zhang, as well as my relatives and friends. As a result, many of them are beginning to switch to a full vegetarian diet or are eating less meat. I am very grateful to Master for Her blessing that lets more people realize the situation of our Earth and subsequently inspires them to join in the movement to “Be Veg, Go Green, and Save the Earth!”
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| Save Our Planet
Sweden Promotes Environmentally Smart Food Choices
By USA News Group (Originally in English)
The National Food Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency of Sweden jointly drafted guidelines on diet choices for health and the environment, called “Environmentally Effective Food Choices.” The guidelines were sent to other EU nations for feedback, hoping that the recommendations will inspire authorities in those countries to support this powerful strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Sweden has become the first country to establish new food policies that consider the environmental aspects of human food choices along with individual health matters. The guidelines state, “Meat – beef, lamb, pork and chicken – is the foodstuff with the greatest impact on the environment.... To eat less meat and to choose what you eat with care is therefore the most effective environmental choice you can make. From a health perspective, there is also no reason to eat as much meat as we do today.” It recommends replacing one or a few meals of beef, lamb, pork or chicken with vegetarian meals each week, or to reduce meat portion sizes. The document further lists various facts on the environmental impact of different foods. For example, 1kg of beef is responsible for up to 15-25kg of greenhouse gases! Inger Andersson, the Director General of the National Food Administration, says, “Consumers make important environmental choices when they are food-shopping, so they need a sound basis on which to make their decisions. Food production accounts for roughly a quarter of Swedish consumers’ climate-impacting emissions, and also contributes to other harmful environmental effects, for example through the use of pesticides”. We applaud Sweden’s authorities for their wise actions and hope other countries will follow their good example to make our planet more sustainable as well as a beautiful and harmonious place to live in. http://www.foodnavigator.com/Legislation/Sweden-seeks-feedback-on-enviro-health-food-guidelines
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| Save Our Planet
Home: ‘Please, Listen to Me’
By USA News Group (Originally in English)
“Home,” a highly acclaimed new documentary on the environment co-produced by the famed French director Luc Besson, was released simultaneously in over 50 countries on the symbolic date of June 5, 2009, World Environment Day. In an effort to globally reach the most number of people in one day, access to the film was made easy on every format including movie theatres, TV, DVD and the Internet, mostly free of charge, an unprecedented way of distribution. Under the direction of the award-winning photographer turned aerial cinematographer, Yann Arthus-Bertrand, the filming process was allowed devout artistic freedom. According to Bertrand, the movie has a mission, “What I really want is for the people, whose consumption has a direct impact on the Earth, to feel the need to change their way of life after seeing the movie.” The rhythmic pacing of the scenes, the poetic narration, the ambient score and the artistic aerial footage of over 54 countries are all threaded together to capture and release the many disappearing and spectacular facets of our only home, and also, its now visible wounds. The repetitive words throughout the film, “Faster and faster,” introduce each convenient way that we’ve chosen to deplete our planet for our personal comforts and seem to reflect the pace of these acts. “The more a country develops, the more meat its inhabitants consume ...Faster and faster, like the life cycle of livestock which many never see a meadow, manufacturing meat faster than the animal has become a daily routine.” This documentary exposes meat production as a major, expensive habit of developed nations that exhausts our natural resources. With supporting figures, viewers are encouraged to do the calculations: It takes 100L of water to produce 1kg of potatoes, 4,000L of water to produce 1kg of rice, but it takes 13,000L of water to produce 1kg of beef, not to mention the oil consumed in its production and transport process. The documentary further frames our current predicament--our dependence on non-renewable energy and our reliance on unsustainable practices. Fossil fuels contribute greatly to the carbon dioxide being pumped into the atmosphere as do transport, industry, deforestation and agriculture. The accumulation of greenhouse gases has raised the world’s temperature and sea levels by melting the polar ice caps and glacier sheets. Coastal cities and low-lying lands around the globe are at great risk of submerging, not to mention the water shortage that could occur when our drinking water becomes saline with sea salt. The most dangerous part, as the narrator points out, is the melting of permafrost, causing the release of a gas at least 20 times more powerful than carbon dioxide, which is methane gas, in unpredictable quantities, and the cost to humans and animals alike. Many pertinent points are presented throughout the documentary “Home.” “The cost of our actions is high,” and shall we as consumers ignore the price paid by less fortunate fellow beings in our pursuit of happiness? Can we also ignore the inhumane treatment of animals and still consume them as meat, albeit causing major environmental devastation? Graphic scenes show the crowded ranches and numbers of livestock. The audience is gently nudged to see and think for themselves. If we stopped eating meat, we could eradicate world hunger and, most obviously, save our planet. The narrator reminds us of the Rapanuis who used to reside on the isolated Easter Island. This civilized race of outstanding arts “did not react in time”; thus, they failed to survive the consequences of overpopulation and dwindling resources. This case is similar to our current plight and an historical lesson that we must take to heart--this lesson learned, may indeed, be a planet earned. Director Arthus-Bertrand is also the current United Nations Environment Program Goodwill Ambassador (UNEP). In an interview, Bertrand mentioned that the making of “Home” is carbon offset. He then concluded that the film carries a message, and emphasized that it was made out of love for everyone. The audience is to take away with them the message that “what’s important is not what’s gone, but what remains… We know that the solutions are there today. We all have the power to change. So what are we waiting for?” For info about this film, please visit: http://www.youtube.com/user/homeproject?blend=2&ob=1
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| Master Says
Let’s Make the Change-Protect the Environment
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, Veracruz,
Mexico Conference, June 4, 2009(Originally in English) Bienvenido, respected dignitaries, media members, notable speakers, and all noble conference participants: Hola! (“Hallo” in Spanish) As a very concerned citizen of the world, I humbly greet you, thank you and respectfully salute all of you here today who have come with open hearts and minds for the welfare of this beautiful and beloved planet that we call home. I am deeply grateful for the conference that is being held here today in Veracruz, Mexico, to address the urgency of global warming due to climate change, which sadly, has killed hundreds of thousands and affects hundreds of millions of humans, not including other species. It is my hope that it will raise higher awareness and inspire action toward the most serious international issue of our time. The information communicated and the noble work being done here today is of paramount importance. It is an honor to share the planet with dedicated people such as yourselves, who strive for the betterment of others. We all know that climate change is a grave issue; we all know what it is, and that the current critical condition of our planet calls for immediate and wise action from every one of us. Please do take note of all info from this conference today and spread them far and wide to save our world from perishing. I take the opportunity to inform you of the general urgent scenario, though perhaps some of you, or many of you, have already known.
You see, our current course of climate change is worse than the worst case scenario projected by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), with the damaging and often fatal effects already being seen through such extreme events as hurricanes, flooding, droughts and heat waves. Even if the world reduces greenhouse gas emissions, the planet will take time to recover from the gases already in the atmosphere. This is why it is necessary to focus on short-lived gases, namely methane. Methane traps at least 72 times more heat than CO2, averaged over a 20-year period. Methane's biggest source is the livestock industry, which is indeed one of the top causes of global warming that must be stopped. But first, please allow me to share just some of the latest evidence of the impact, the impacts of climate change on humans’ and animals’ lives.
Here we have first, Arctic melt. The Arctic, or North Pole, may be ice-free by 2012, 70 years ahead of IPCC estimations. Without the protective ice to reflect sunlight, 90 percent of the sun's heat can enter the open water, thus accelerating global warming. The change in Arctic ice cover is dramatic, with climatologists saying that only 10 percent now is older and thick ice, while over 90 percent is newly formed and thin. Another Arctic change is the thawing of permafrost, a normally frozen layer of earth containing methane stores. The thawing of this layer in recent years has caused methane to be released, with atmospheric levels that have risen sharply since 2004. Further global warming beyond a 2-degree Celsius rise could cause billions of tons more of methane to be released into the atmosphere, leading to mass extinctions of life on this planet. As the massive ice sheets of Greenland and the Antarctic continue to melt as well, catastrophic sea level rise and stronger storms are expected to follow. If the entire West Antarctic sheet melts, global average sea levels would rise at least by 3.3, 3.5 meters, affecting over 3.2 billion people,- that is half of the world population,- who live within 200 miles of a coastline. And US scientists from the National Snow and Ice Data Center now say that if all of Antarctica were to melt, the sea level could rise to a much higher level than expected, some say even up to 70 meters, which means more deadly to all lives on Earth.
Next problem: We have lands sinking and climate refugees. Right now, at least 18 islands have completely submerged around the world, with more than 40 other island nations at risk from rising sea levels. A report from the International Organization for Migration stated that there may be 200 million, or even up to 1 billion people, who will be climate refugees by 2050, or within our lifetime. These are people who must leave their island or coastal homes due to rising sea levels or permafrost melts that cause entire communities or nations to sink and collapse.
Next problem we have: Glacier retreat and water shortage. Most of the planet’s glaciers will be gone within a few decades, jeopardizing the survival of more than 2 billion people. One billion of these people will suffer the effects of the Himalayan glacier retreats, which have been occurring at a pace more rapid than anywhere in the world, with two-thirds of the region’s more than 18,000 glaciers receding. The initial effects of glacier melt are destructive floods and landslides. As the glacial ice retreat continues, reduced rainfall, devastating droughts and water shortages are the result.
Next: Oceanic dead zones. Climate change is creating areas of sea known as dead zones, which now number more than 400. These arise due to fertilizer runoff largely from livestock, contributing to the lack of oxygen which is necessary to support life.
Now we have also record heat. The past decade has twice, at least, seen the hottest average annual temperatures ever recorded in our planet’s history. In 2003, a record heat wave hit Europe, claiming tens of thousands of lives. Heat waves also preceded the worst wildfires ever in Australia’s history.
Next: Storms increasing. The intensity and duration of hurricanes and tropical storms have been noted to increase by 100% over the past 30 years, which scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the USA say is likely due to climate-related increases in ocean temperature.
Next we have wildlife disappearance. Leading ecologists say that the decline of wildlife due to species extinction is so rapid that there is no modern comparison. Scientists also now predicted that the Earth’s 16,000 endangered species may become extinct 100 times faster than previously thought.
Next, we have drought, desertification. In Nepal and Australia, wildfires this year have been severely intensified by drought conditions. In Africa, people in Somalia, Ethiopia and Sudan, to name just a few, have been crippled by drought. According to the United Nations, desertification, which often results from felling too many trees and damage that occurs from such activities as cattle grazing, is affecting the well-being of more than 1.2 billion people in more than 100 countries at risk. Precious fresh water supplies are also drying up, such as aquifers under the major cities of Beijing, Delhi, Bangkok and dozens of other regions such as the Midwestern United States; while the rivers Ganges, Jordan, Nile and Yangtze have been reduced to a trickle for much of the year. In China’s worst drought in five decades, vital crops were lost in at least 12 northern provinces, costing the nation billions of US dollars in drought relief to farmers with losses.
Next we have the human health problem. According to Swiss-based research, climate change is already responsible for some 315,000 deaths a year, with another 325 million people who are severely affected. This comes in addition to an economic loss of US$125 billion every year. The worst affected are developing nations in Africa, with other very threatened areas being in South Asia and small island nations. Solution Okay, we have enough with the problem, but we have solutions to this problem. It might not be that early, but it’s still not too late, we still can rescue our home, planet home. Okay, the number one solution is vegan, organic vegan. Veganism will save our world. I will report to you one by one how the vegan diet would save our world. Luckily there are easy actions we can take. I will list them for your reference. Now, many of these areas where we are seeing such devastating effects of climate change, such as Arctic melt, lands sinking, water shortage from glacier melt, and even storms increasing are all directly related to the Earth’s temperature increasing. So, we must cool the planet, first and foremost. And the best way to stop global warming is to stop producing the greenhouse gases that create the heat. Logical, no? Yes. We already know about the efforts to reduce emissions such as from industry and transportation. But changes in these sectors are taking too much time – more than we can afford at this rate, at this hour. One of the most effective and fastest ways to reduce the heat in the atmosphere is to eliminate methane production. Methane not only traps up to 72 times more heat than carbon dioxide does, it also goes away from the atmosphere much faster than CO2. So if we stop producing methane, the atmosphere will cool more quickly than if we stop producing carbon dioxide. See what I mean? Organic vegan will produce a beneficial cooling effect as it will cut down methane and other greenhouse gases which are fatal to our survival.
We can start by cutting down on the biggest methane producer in the world, that is, animal raising. So, to cool the planet most quickly, we have to stop consuming meat in order to stop the livestock raising industry, and thus stop greenhouse gases, methane and other toxic gases from animal industry. If everyone in the world would adopt this simple but most powerful practice of an animal-free diet, then we could reverse the effect of global warming in no time. We would then have time to actually be able to adopt longer-term measures such as more green technology, to also remove the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In fact, if we neglect to stop meat production, either all these green efforts will be canceled out in effect, or we may lose the planet before we even have a chance to install any green technology such as wind power or solar power, or more hybrid cars, for that reason. Please also keep in mind that although livestock has been reported to generate 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions—which is more than the world’s transportation sectors combined—this is actually an underestimate. Because recently revised calculations have placed it at generating possibly more than 50% of total global emissions. I repeat: Livestock has been recalculated as to generate possibly more than 50% of total global emissions. More than 50% is from the livestock industry. So that was the number one solution.
Now, number two: eliminating other gases. Besides methane, other lethal toxic gases are emitted by the livestock industry as well. It is the largest source at 65% of global nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas with approximately 300 times the warming potential of CO2, it also emits 64% of all ammonia, which causes acid rain and hydrogen sulfide, a fatal gas. So to stop livestock production is to eliminate all these deadly gases, as well as methane.
Number three: Halting dead zones. There are other huge benefits gained by halting livestock production. Oceanic dead zones, for example, are caused primarily by fertilizer runoff from agriculture that is mainly used for animal feed. Dead zones are a serious threat to the ocean’s ecosystems, but they can be revived if we stop polluting them with our livestock-related activities. Stop fishing, too, then marine life will rebound. Since the heavy fishing that caused the sardines to disappear from the coast of Namibia, eruptions of harmful gases have created a dead zone that is destroying the area’s ecosystems due to the absence of that one humble but eco-beneficial, powerful species. Can you imagine? Just the sardines. So we have to stop fishing as well as using all animal products, to protect our living ocean and water bodies, which is crucial to our survival. You know it.
Now number four: we have to stop desertification. We can. Desertification is another climate change effect that is linked to livestock, again. For example, in Mexico, recent research stated that 47% of your country has already taken the toll of desertification, has become desert, due to damage from the cattle industry. And another 50-70% of the country of Mexico is also suffering from some degree of drought. Overgrazing by livestock, which occupies nearly a third of our Earth’s land surface worldwide, is a major cause of desertification and other damage, and is responsible for more than 50% of land erosion. Now, we must stop livestock grazing to protect our soil and protect our life.
Number five: We can stop water shortage. While droughts are plaguing more populations, we cannot afford to waste water. Meat production uses massive amounts of water, as you know. It takes up to 1,200 gallons of fresh and good clean water to produce just one serving of beef. In contrast, a full vegan meal costs only 98 gallons of water. That is like 90-plus percent less. So, if we want to stop water shortage and to preserve precious water, we have to stop animal products.
Now, six: we can stop deforestation. We have to ban deforestation. And we have to plant more trees, of course. Wherever there’s erosion or empty land, we have to plant trees. Now, deforestation is also largely driven by meat production. With the United Nations estimating that deforestation accounts for approximately 20% of all greenhouse gas emissions, nearly all deforestation itself is related to meat production. Eighty percent of cleared Amazon forest is designated as a cattle grazing area to prepare the animals for slaughter, and the remainder is planted as soy crops used also largely for animal feed. So to stop animal products is to protect our precious forest, the lungs of our Earth, and the crucial factor for our survival.
Now, seven: We have to alleviate financial cost. Our leaders are worried about the cost of mitigating climate change. However, the good news is, if the world shifted to a reduced, or meatless diet, animal-free diet, then we could reduce the cost by half or more. That means we would reduce tens of trillions of US dollars. If the world shifted to a vegan diet we could save more than 80% of the cost, or approximately US$32 trillion.
Number eight: We must minimize health cost. The health risks of eating meat are more and more evident these days. Livestock are routinely given excessive hormones and antibiotics, which then, when consumed as meat, can in turn endanger human health. There are also toxic byproducts in slaughter places such as ammonia and hydrogen sulfide. These poisonous substances have caused deaths among workers due to their extreme toxicity. As a so-called food, meat is simply one of the most unhealthy, poisonous, unhygienic items that could ever be ingested by humans. We should never eat meat at all if we love and cherish our health and our life. We will live longer without meat, and be healthier and wiser without meat. Meat has been scientifically shown to cause all kinds of cancers, also heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke and obesity. The list goes on and on and on. All these diseases kill millions of people every year. Millions and millions of people die due to meat-related diseases, making millions others seriously sick and disabled as well. There is no end to the tragedies which are caused by a meat diet. Meat eating is a no-no. We should know this by now through all the scientific and medical evidence. Please stop eating meat. Just even for your health’s sake. You want to live long for your children and your grandchildren, and live healthily. We did not even mention the filthy conditions, the confined environments where the animals are kept until their slaughter, which promote the transmission of diseases such as the swine flu virus. In fact, some meat-transmitted diseases like the human form of mad cow disease are tragically fatal in every case. Whoever contracts mad cow disease is doomed to die, sadly, sadly and sorrowfully. Other contaminants such as E. coli, salmonella, etc., can also cause serious health problems, long-term damages, sometimes even leading to death. In short, simply saying no to meat will make us richer, healthier, and most importantly, it will make us a wiser person, and a great hero. Because it is the only timely way that we ensure the survival of our children and grandchildren. CLOSING To conclude my report: Respected, honorable, wise, beloved, esteemed audience members, we now can see how imperative it is to stop the warming of the planet with the greenest of all green policies and actions, the most compassionate, the most heroic, the most life-saving action, that is, the vegan diet, organic vegan to be exact. It’s better for your health as well. It is the long-term insurance against climate change. We must be the solution and encourage others with all the convincing and supporting scientific, physical and moral data that is available to us - so they do the same. Adopting a plant-based diet can halt as much as 80% of global warming, eradicate world hunger, stop war, promote peace, and it will free up the Earth’s water as well as many other precious resources, offering a lifeline for the planet and for humanity. In short, it will very quickly halt many of the global problems facing us right now. Therefore, it is vital that we change our lifestyle. It’s very easy to do it, setting a noble example for others to follow, and doing our part to bring the public’s attention to the urgent climate change issue and its solutions; the foremost being the vegan diet, to safeguard our precious planet. It is time to walk the talk, because there is not much time left now. In coming here today, it is quite clear that all of you already know that the issues at hand are very urgent and need to be resolved immediately. Thank you all statespersons, media members, speakers, conference participants, ladies and gentlemen, for all your time and care in coming here today. And thank you all noble persons involved in organizing this awakening event. I truly appreciate your sincerity and willingness to join with those who share the same goal, for taking initiatives to inform the public and for wanting to implement prompt actions. Together we can usher in a new golden era, where we can all live the noble qualities of love, compassion and benevolence as was intended, live up to the principles of nonviolence and forgiveness, exemplifying the human standard of virtuous living, righteous living, and live a more sustainable life in peace, joy and harmony with each other, with all our co-inhabitants;- humans, animals, plants, trees alike. I am quite sure that this conference will contribute greatly to the worldwide efforts of all nations to save our planet. My most heartfelt gratitude to all who took part in making this a reality. May Heaven bless you, your loved ones and your countries. And may all your noble endeavors be graced with glorious success!
To watch the Supreme Master Television coverage of this videoconference, please visit:
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Shining World Leadership Award
One Nation’s Unconditional Assistance to Others
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By Spain News Group (Originally in Spanish)
For his noble deeds in providing urgent assistance to natural disaster victims in various countries, His Excellency Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, President of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea, was formally presented with the Shining World Leadership Award on June 4, Golden Year 6 (2009). Supreme Master Ching Hai honored the dignified President with this Award for his country’s efforts in generously supporting victims of hurricanes Ike and Gustav in Cuba, the earthquake victims of China, and the flood victims of hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, USA, as well as in Haiti. The presentation, made by Association member representatives, took place in the Parliament House of the Republic of Equatorial Guinea during the Equatorial Guinea National Day celebrations. Delegates from Africa, Spain, the USA, South America and China, professors from universities in Russia and Colombia as well as all the local officials and foreign diplomats were present at the ceremony. Attendees of the event greatly appreciated the beautiful message from Supreme Master Ching Hai in a letter addressed to the Equatorial Guinea government and her President. The letter stated: “Under your guidance and with immeasurable compassion, Equatorial Guinea has helped many countries during their time of need, lovingly assisting disaster victim’s recovery from trauma and loss… Your country’s numerous gifts are especially commendable as Equatorial Guinea’s resources are not high in surplus. Your Excellency, we are touched by Your sincere and fruitful gestures of friendship with other nations, in order to help their citizens, be it friend or foe. You have set a shining example of the highest ideals, where all humanity cares for each other. May God bless You, Your people and all those touched by Your unconditional and merciful love.” President Mbasogo concluded the ceremony with a heart-warming speech saying, “When Equatorial Guinea gave the help to those in need, our only concern was for the victims, not the size of the country. Therefore, Equatorial Guinea rendered aid to the victims in New Orleans, even though USA is the richest country in the world; we didn’t think that there was no need to give, we just thought of the people who were suffering.” In showing his appreciation to Supreme Master Ching Hai, he said, “I warmly thank Her for having unconditionally granted the Shining World Leadership Award in recognition of my modest contributions towards a better future for humankind.” God bless Equatorial Guinea and her President for compassionately helping victims of climate change induced disasters. With more nationals extending such brotherly love to one another, our world will surely embrace a brighter future! To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit: http://video.Godsdirectcontact.net/VIP/NWN1016c.php
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Ireland’s Loving Support to Zambia
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By Korea News Group (Originally in English)
On May 14, Golden Year 6 (2009), Mr. Bill Nolan, the Irish Ambassador to Zambia, received the Shining World Leadership Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai. The Award was given in recognition of the Irish government’s pledge of US$35 million to Zambia. The financial assistance—a true example of loving support from the Irish government to the Zambian people—is to go toward the country’s development programs, particularly in the education, health, tourism and agriculture sectors as well as governance and HIV/AIDS related programs. A beautiful crystal plaque and Award letter with Master’s signature was presented by our Association member to Mr. Bill Nolan at a ceremony in Lusaka, Zambia, with a gift of Master’s recent publications The Noble Wilds and The Birds in My Life, plus DVDs. Mr. Nolan very gladly received the Award, and he was very honored that Ireland was acknowledged for their work in helping another nation. He thanked Supreme Master Ching Hai saying, “There is value in making awards available, presenting an award of this kind. It does have value. We do like to have somebody, especially from the other side of the world, recognize that even a small country like Ireland can help to make a difference. So, we thank you very much for that.” Our sincere thanks, Ireland, and Heaven bless your generosity and efforts in helping those in need in Zambia, especially the children and those in poor health. May all live in a world of peace, plenty and sustainability.
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Leading the Way in the Norwegian Parliament
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By Oslo News Group (Originally in Norwegian)
Over the past decade, Norwegian Member of Parliament Ms. Inga Marte Thorkildsen has demonstrated compassion and wisdom in urging the public to take actions to halt climate change. For her outstanding efforts in leading the people to a brighter future, she received the Shining World Leadership Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai, presented by Association members on December 15, Golden Year 5 (2008). As a member of the Standing Committee on Energy and the Environment, Ms. Thorkildsen has handled matters related to oil, energy, water, and the protection of the environment since 2001. It is from here that she has become an invaluable voice, exposing the adverse effects of meat consumption on climate change, encouraging people to take immediate action themselves and lead the way to a better future. Ms. Thorkildsen openly supports the need for the adoption of a plant-based diet stating: “It is important to make people aware that their meat consumption is a significant contributor not only to climate change, but also to the food crisis in the world. So we have to confront consumers, dare to make some tough decisions as politicians, and challenge the international organizations. I think we have to decide from the top that our animal industry must produce less meat.” Ms. Thorkildsen is helping to implement policies in Norway to make it one of the leaders in positive action in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. She works tirelessly to better the lives of her constituents and strives to bring equality in the world, in developing countries, for those without food and for women in politics. In her position on the Standing Committee on Justice from 2001 to 2005, she brought the protection of women and children’s issues to the top of the political agenda. Upon receiving the Shining World Leadership Award, Ms. Thorkildsen said in gratitude: “I would like to thank Supreme Master Ching Hai; it’s such an incredible gift and recognition to receive. I feel that I haven’t really done much. But I think this is so wonderful and great, and it will also support the efforts being made, so we can get a more equal and sustainable development in the world. I will do my part to provide information and knowledge to people, so together we all can contribute to achieving a better result. This really inspires me to continue working, thank you.” We thank Ms. Thorkildsen for helping to create a better world with a plant-based diet. We pray that more people awaken to the need to make this vital change in their lives for the wellbeing of our planet.
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A Courageous Minister
of Local Government and Housing ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
By Korea News Group (Original in English)
In May, Golden Year 5 (2008), the Zambian government banned smoking in public places and offenders will face a maximum jail term of two years or a maximum fine of K400,000 (US$121). Minister of Local Government and Housing, Ms. Sylvia Masebo issued this statement to the press, “I have been compelled to issue the statutory instruction due to the continued smoking in public places by persons that have no regard for the comfort of others, and it’s important to prohibit smoking in public places because of the hazardous effects it has on non-smokers who are forced to be passive smokers. The public needed to ensure that the ‘Make Zambia Clean’ program has a wider concept that not only emanates from the government but also starts with personal hygiene of individuals and that included stopping smoking in public places.” For her loving, wise and bold action, representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai presented the Shining World Leadership Award to Ms. Masebo on May 19, 2009, in the Parliament buildings which was later featured on local television MUVI TV and also in The Post newspaper. Upon receiving the beautiful crystal plaque, Ms. Masebo graciously said, “Thank you very much for this very noble Award. I am very humbled on behalf of the Zambian government and people of Zambia. Also I feel humbled to realize that some of the policies of the Zambian government have actually had a positive impact not only on the people of Zambia but the world over. I will pass it on to the government and indeed the people of Zambia. Once you stop people from smoking in public places, there will be much healthier people. Those who don’t smoke will be protected.” Other countries in Africa such as Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda have also imposed the ban. We thank Ms. Masebo for her courage, love, wisdom and noble leadership in helping to create a healthier world that is a better place for everyone to live. Reference: http://www.znbc.co.zm/media/news/viewnews.cgi?category=9&id=1211996213
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Innovation for Waste Recycling and Processing
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By Surrey News Group, UK (Originally in English)
In December, Golden Year 5 (2008), Mr. Philip Hall, Director of Reclaim Resources, received the Shining World Inventor Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai for developing the Vantage Waste Processing system that recycles solid waste. The company, Reclaim Resources, is located in South England and was formed with the goal of inventing a system to treat municipal household waste. Its Vantage Waste Processing system takes household waste and transforms it into biomass ready for conversion into a range of resources, including electricity and bioethanol. It can reduce raw, unsorted garbage by up to 60% using thermal hydration to process and sanitize waste material through a continuous feed rotating stainless steel chamber. At less than one-tenth of the cost of incinerator plants, this system can be easily manufactured to be affordable to many. An Award ceremony was held at Reclaim Resources and Mr. Hall was delighted to receive the Award presented by our Association member. “At the end of the day we’re both trying to improve the way we live, our planet, and we in our own way have striven to do that and I think with the help of your channel we’ll increase it more,” he said. We applaud Reclaim Resources for its outstanding green innovation. May we continue to be blessed with the love and wisdom in finding ways to restore and enhance our precious planet.
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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Discovering the Cure for Drug Addiction
– Mr. Tặng Ngọc San ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
By Aulac News Group (Originally in English)
On December 4, Golden Year 5 (2008), Mr. Tặng Ngọc San received the Shining World Inventor Award in recognition of his efforts in discovering a method for drug rehabilitation. Mr. San had previously been an addict for 24 years and during that time, his health deteriorated, his wealth vanished, and his wife and children suffered from starvation. One day, he decided to find a way to escape this prolonged torture. He went on an arduous journey, which took him to many remote mountainous areas. After going through much challenges along the way and thanks to Heaven’s blessing, he was able to gather all the needed 15 ingredients to cure his own addiction and that of others around him. From 2003 to this day, Mr. San has cured nearly 100 people in his local district and other provinces such as Thanh Hóa, Nghệ An, Đồng Tháp, Yên Bái, Hà Nội, Vĩnh Phúc. The ceremony was held in a warm atmosphere full of God’s love and our Association members presented the Shining World Inventor Award on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Mr. Tăng Ngọc San was also given US$5,000 and Master’s publications. Deeply moved by Master’s supporting gesture, Mr. San said he would use the fund for the production of more addiction treatment medication for his community and other young Aulacese in order to bring about healthy living for the next generation. He cautioned the young people that “Drug addiction is a disaster for your own life, your family and the society. Therefore, I hope that you will stay away from it.” We wish you great success, Mr. Tăng Ngọc San, for your future endeavor in helping addicts to go back to their normal life and enjoy happiness with their loved ones. Caption: Receipt of US$5,000 for Mr. Tăng Ngọc San
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The Dedicated “Floating Doctors”
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By Los Angles News Group (Originally in English)
On October 26, Golden Year 5 (2008), our Association members were honored to present Dr. Benjamin La Brot the Shining World Compassion Award on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. He, along with his team of six men and women, set up a non-profit organization, the “Floating Doctors,” to bring advanced health care to some of the most remote places on Earth. Traveling by boat, they visited Mexico, Central America and Africa. While providing much-needed medical relief, their courageous and noble efforts have also brought a lasting sense of love, care and hope to needy individuals and even to whole communities. Dr. La Brot said, “You don’t have to spend lots and lots of money to leave a permanent improvement in people’s health. You just have to be willing to go and do it. Stop and help.” Dr. La Brot believes that though his mission is small in scale, the difference that the Floating Doctors will be making could be extensive, for each individual matters greatly. Dr. La Brot said with a touch of sentiment, “If all of my efforts on this next voyage only result in one woman so that her baby is born healthy and normal, and that her baby and her family aren’t saddled with that horrible tragedy of a birth defect or miscarriage, even if I could just help that one person, to me that would be one person, and to everybody else that would be one person. But to her, she is an entire universe, and the people that depend on her, the people that love her, the people that she affects. So since we’ll hopefully be treating over 14,000, I hope to leave a really lasting impact. I really do.” The Award presentation took place by Dr. La Brot’s eco-friendly sailing vessel, the “Blue Norther.” For his outstanding selfless devotion to bringing health and happiness to isolated areas of the world, he received a personal letter from Supreme Master Ching Hai, a beautiful crystal Award plaque and a monetary fund of US$10,000 in support of his life-saving work. Dr. La Brot said in gratitude, “I just want to extend my deepest personal thanks to Supreme Master Ching Hai. It really means a lot to us and to me personally, that there are people who are also committed to the same ideals that we are: to service, to love, to peace, and to improving people’s health worldwide. Thank you so much.” We wish Dr. Benjamin La Brot and his team all the best with safe and successful voyages at sea, bringing God’s love to far-off places. Caption: Receipt from Dr. Benjamin La Brot for the US$10,000 contribution by Master. For more information about Floating Doctors, please visit: www.floatingdoctors.com To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit: http://video.Godsdirectcontact.net/magazine/EE905.php
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Honoring a Benevolent Doctor
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By Ohio News Group (Originally in English)
On April 25, Golden Year 6 (2009), Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association members held an award ceremony for Dr. Bob Donovan, a Marianist Roman Catholic priest, at Vegan Café in Cincinnati, Ohio. The loving doctor established Cincinnati’s first medical van for the homeless in 1988 and for the last 15 years since the founding of the Center for Respite Care, he has been providing health care for those marginalized by society who would not otherwise have access to medical treatment. To this day, he continues with the mission of compassion and remains the only doctor in the area providing this merciful and heartfelt service. Apart from the Award plaque, Dr. Donovan also received a check for US$20,000, a beautiful framed appreciation letter and gifts from Master. Dr. Donovan’s family and friends were very happy to attend the Shining World Compassion Award ceremony. His mother, who was delighted about the recognition, stated that her son has always been a fine person since his childhood and has always been doing his best to help others. Dr. Donovan humbly shared that Jesus was an example for him to follow and it was Jesus’ teachings that influenced his chosen path in life - to serve the people in need. He said that he was overwhelmed to receive the US$20,000 from Supreme Master Ching Hai and that he would continue to serve the homeless and needy. Dr. Donovan extended a special thank you to Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her love and generosity. Following the ceremony, delicious vegan food and drinks were served to Dr. Bob Donovan and his guests. The celebration was an uplifting and cheerful occasion enjoyed by all who attended.
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To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit: http://video.Godsdirectcontact.net/magazine/EE1038.php
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Healing the World with Laughter
- Clowns Without Borders ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
By Spanish News Group (Originally in Spanish)
“Laughter is the best medicine.” It is indeed so, as shown by Mr. Tortell Poltrona, recipient of the Shining World Compassion Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai. Mr. Poltrona is the founder of Clowns Without Borders, a non-profit organization that began in Barcelona in July 1993 with the goal of bringing entertainment and light-heartedness to people, especially children, in disadvantaged or troubled areas. The inspiration to create such a unique organization came to Tortell Poltrona when he, as a professional clown in Spain, was invited to perform in a refugee camp in Croatia. This performance unexpectedly attracted an audience of more than 700 gleeful children. Realizing that there is a great need and appreciation for clowns and entertainment in trying situations, and stirred by compassion for the children living in challenging circumstances, Mr. Poltrona founded Clowns Without Borders. The group offers humor as a way to support communities that have experienced difficulties, both physically and emotionally, and helps them to heal. Soon, the idea of entertaining in areas of crisis extended to other countries, and today, Clowns Without Borders has organizations in nine countries around the world including Spain, France, Sweden, Germany, Belgium, Ireland, South Africa, Canada and the United States. The dedicated staff and volunteers travel far and wide around the world to perform in refugee camps, orphanages, schools, disaster shelters and so on. Their pure intentions of alleviating the sorrow and hardships felt by those undergoing unfortunate circumstances provide the motivation for them to work long hours on and off the stage. In 2009, they are working towards the goal of completing 100 projects worldwide. On March 22, Golden Year 6 (2009), during an interval of a circus performance in Madrid, Association members, on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai, presented Mr. Tortell Poltrona with the Shining World Compassion Award, along with a US$5,000 contribution and Master’s bestselling books and other publications. The crowd gave a big round of applause when Mr. Poltrona showed them the beautiful plaque. In Her letter of appreciation, Master wrote, “Laughter and smiles are such deep gifts of love to share; the soul of God, beaming light into the dark places of troubled hearts. Such is the real magic of your creation, a divine inspiration that has brought much happiness into your world. Thank you so much. Words are too limited to express our appreciation, but God knows and Heaven’s grace is with you.” Mr. Poltrona expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Supreme Master Ching Hai on behalf of Clowns Without Borders, and announced that the money will help their next project this summer in refugee camps in the Congo and Rwanda areas. “We’ll continue struggling so that the children of this world can at least be children,” he said. We thank you, Mr. Poltrona and the Clowns Without Borders organizations around the world, for the uplifting work you are doing to bring smiles to audiences in need. May God bless and protect you in all your noble endeavors.
To watch Supreme Master TV's interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
Caption: Receipt from Clowns Without Borders for the US$5,000 contribution by Master
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Carrying on the Legacy of Love
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By Belgium News Group (Originally in French)
For many years the kind-hearted Ms. Marie-Jeanne Frédérique has provided a safe haven for animals that have been abandoned, mistreated or saved from factory farms. Residing in her home, at Galmaarden, Belgium, there are currently around 150 rescued animals, including tortoises, dogs, peacocks, cats and chickens, peacefully living in this wonderful shelter, which provides rehabilitation and loving care. Ms. Frédérique became a vegetarian 40 years ago. She and her daughter Fabienne first began taking in animals because they had nowhere else to go. After Fabienne passed on at a young age, to assure the continued legacy of the shelter, Ms. Frédérique established a non-profit charity organization and named it ASBL Fabienne in the loving memory of her daughter. Ms. Frédérique fondly recalled that her daughter was the first one in Belgium to receive a diploma without even killing an animal. “She didn’t want to do vivisection, but she was a very good student and they let her pass. That was a great step for her, for everyone, especially the animals. But her goal was to save the animals.” Ms. Frédérique later went completely vegan and made protecting all living beings including plants the focus of her life. All animals cared for by ASBL Fabienne are fed only plant-based foods and are in perfect health, according to a veterinarian. In recognition of her unconditional pure-hearted love and nurturing devotion ensuring the wellbeing of animal co-inhabitants in need, Supreme Master Ching Hai gave Ms. Marie-Jeanne Frédérique the Shining World Compassion Award and €10,000 to support her noble mission. At the Award ceremony on May 19, Golden Year 6 (2009), a selection of Master’s DVDs and CDs, as well as the international No. 1 bestselling book The Noble Wilds were also presented to her. Deeply touched by the Award, gifts and encouragement from Master, Ms. Frédérique wrote: “I am very grateful to you for your generous contribution. It has been a great reviving support for ASBL Fabienne, and has brought a lot of comfort to the animals that have experienced so much suffering having been rescued from the torture of the slaughterhouse. I share their life.” “Your presence is henceforth at my sides, truly sustaining me as I serve the cause which is so dear to us. Your CDs have brought relaxation to my life, and I catch myself humming ‘Dream in the Night' …your books have revealed to me aspects of your special relationship with birds; such beautiful photos as well…Your publications are read to friends who visit me....These, dear Supreme Master Ching Hai, are my thoughts in which I send my tenderest sentiments towards your radiant personality.” We once again would like to extend our gratitude to Ms. Marie-Jeanne Frédérique for establishing ASBL Fabienne, and for all her heartfelt care and concern for the animals residing in her home. We also would like to send our love to all the wonderful sentient beings living with her.
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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A Compassionate Father with a Golden Heart
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By Aulac News Group (Originally in Aulacese)
For the last five years, Mr. Tống Phước Phúc from the coastal city of Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa province, has opened his home to infants who were either orphaned or whose mothers were too young to take care of them. Through his unconditional sacrifice, he has built a cozy nest full of love for over 80 infants and his private residence has become a lifeline of fatherly love. His noble deeds were recently honored by Supreme Master Ching Hai with a Shining World Compassion Award. The Award presentation was made by the initiates from Central Âu Lạc (Việt Nam) and held on February 24, Golden Year 6 (2009). In Her personal letter to Mr. Tống, Master wrote, “We are deeply grateful to your noble love in saving the precious lives and building favorable conditions for our babies to enjoy a life of peace and happiness.” In addition, a gift of US$10,000 and Master publications were given to Mr. Phúc, who expressed his gratefulness and said humbly, “A swift can’t build springtime on its own. Everything I do is arranged by God.” We greatly honor Mr. Tống Phước Phúc and hope that your golden heart and compassionate work will become an inspiration for all people in the world. We pray that Heaven will always bless you and your children with a life of peace and happiness. Caption: Receipt of US$10,000 for Mr. Tống Phước Phúc
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“Dog Mother” of Bhutan
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By Thailand News Group (Originally in English)
Known to the local residents as “Rochi Ama” or “Dog Mother” in Dzongkha, Bhutan’s national language, the kind-hearted Ms. Marianne Guillet has taken in and cared for thousands of animals for over a decade. Born in France, Ms. Guillet, a geographer and an architect with a medical background, moved to the Himalayan Kingdom of Bhutan in 1997. Her home in Bhutan’s capital, Thimphu, has since become a clinic, the Pilou Medical Center, in which she has treated over 30,000 animals including dogs, birds, monkeys, deer, pigs, horses and cows. At the clinic, there are special rooms for surgery, recovery, intensive care as well as a garden with many kennels for the dogs. Two Bhutanese staff are employed full time to help with the care of the animals. Ms. Guillet and her Dutch partner, Mr. Hendrik Visser, pay the helpers with their own funds and buy all the necessary rice, vegetables and fruit to feed their animal guests. In recognition of her love and compassion for our animal friends, Ms. Guillet was presented with the Shining World Compassion Award by our Association members on March 21, Golden Year 6 (2009), on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. With tears of gratitude, Ms. Guillet accepted the Award plaque, Master’s gifts of US$10,000 and publications. She thanked Master for acknowledging her endeavor and said the money would be used to repair and rebuild the Pilou Medical Center so that it can provide better care and comfort to the animals. She even offered to help distribute SOS flyers, given by the Association members, to the important personages of Bhutan such as His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Ministers. Our Association members were touched to see the joy and gratitude in the eyes of the animals at the clinic when they were with Ms. Guillet. May her example of compassion to animals help this noble country be a safe place in which animals and humans live together in peace and happiness. Caption: Receipt from Ms. Marianne Guillet for the US$10,000 contribution by Master
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A Candle Burns Bright for the Blind
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By Âu Lạc News Group (Originally in Aulacese)
Father Nguyễn Thực, the head priest of Hà Đông parish, and his Catholic devotees have always practiced virtuous deeds in order to fulfill Christ’s teaching: “Anything you do for one of the weakest, the most depraved, you do for Me.” In order to alleviate some of the hardships faced by the locals without eyesight, he compassionately founded the Friends of the Blind Association and together with his parish members has quietly provided rice for them over the past eight years. The contributions, though modest, are offered with deep brotherly love in hopes of lifting the people’s spirits. As news of his noble deeds travel far and wide, he finds support coming from other parishes and organizations. Touched by the selfless service and unconditional love of Father Thực and his parish, Supreme Master Ching Hai bestowed on them the Shining World Compassion Award, which was presented on December 1, Golden Year 5 (2008), by one of our Association members. Father Thực was given a beautiful crystal plaque engraved with nine hearts, a check of US$5,000, and a thank-you letter from Supreme Master as well as Her books and DVDs. Father Thực thanked Master on behalf of his parish and pledged to “do more work in cooperation with our Aulacese volunteers in serving the society and extending love and services to the poor in Âu Lạc.” He added that the US$5,000 gift would be dedicated to supporting the visually impaired and the needs of his parish. Father Thực shared his dream that every Aulacese in the country as well as abroad would continue working to bring peace and happiness to others. May Christ’s blessing and love be bestowed upon all people around the world and may Father’s wishes become a reality.
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The Institute for Justice and Reconciliation
of South Africa: A Ray of Hope and Love ♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥♥
By Cape Town News Group, South Africa (Originally in English)
South Africa was ready to begin a new era of solidarity after an open forum into previous apartheid practices had been completed in 1998 by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. In order to further promote reconciliation, transitional justice and democratic nation-building in the country, Mr. Charles Villa-Vicencio, Dr. Fanie du Toit and others sharing the same ideal came together to establish the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR) of South Africa in May 2000. The IJR, now headed by Dr. du Toit, consists of about 20 members and has evolved as a think tank, facilitating discussions between different groups of people, developing solutions and publishing its audits, surveys and analyses. Initiatives also take place in schools to bring about progressive ideas and values and partnerships are made with other regions to allow the exchange of key lessons and best practices. Hundreds of people have participated in its Community Healing Training Course in the most vulnerable regions. The Institute also works closely with governments and academics to help improve justice and security for people in South Africa. In recognition of its exceptional efforts to bring about peace and understanding through education and to heal and reconcile the pain of South Africa after her racially segregated past, the IJR was awarded the Prize for Peace Education by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization in September Golden Year 5 (2008). Then on October 31, which happened to be Dr. du Toit’s birthday, IJR was given the Shining World Compassion Award by our Association members, on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Dr. du Toit expressed his sincere thanks and appreciation to Master for the Award, and gifts, Her lofty aims and ideals and for orchestrating a positive network around the globe. Thank you, Dr. du Toit and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation, for your tireless endeavors to foster and promote peace and harmony in a country rich and diverse in culture, language and human resources. Reference: http://www.justice.gov.za/trc/index.html
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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Honesty, One Good Deed Leads to Another
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By Illinois News Group, USA (Originally in English)
On, May 9, Golden Year 6 (2009), the Illinois Center News Team drove to Holland, Michigan to present the Shining World Honesty Award to 11-year-old John Robert (J.R.) Bouterse. In April of last year, J.R. found a lost wallet containing $800 while playing in a church parking lot. His immediate reaction was to take the wallet to the police. The money belonged to a 20-year-old lady who had just cashed two weeks’ salary and placed it in her wallet. The police department wanted to give J.R. a monetary reward for his honorable action, but instead, he asked for a pizza party for his entire Scout troop. A surprise guest at the party was the woman to whom the wallet was returned. She was very grateful to John. During an interview for Supreme Master Television, J.R. said that he did not feel like a hero for what he did, and everyone should do the same. When asked if he had a “to be or not to be” moment, he replied that he just wanted the wallet to be returned to the owner, because he knew how it felt to lose money. Not long ago, John also lost a wallet which contained his savings. Miraculously, shortly after he turned in the wallet he found, his own wallet was also returned to him! At the Boy Scout Council’s Award banquet, John very humbly accepted the Shining World Honesty Award, a framed letter from Master and other gifts, not just for himself but also for all the scout members; on both his own and their behalf, he sincerely expressed his appreciation to Supreme Master Ching Hai for this honor. J.R.’s family was also present at the banquet. They were proud that their son had done the right thing, because his action has touched the hearts of so many people. From all the amazing e-mails, calls and letters received from all over the country and overseas, Mrs. Bouterse realized that people actually want to hear that something good is happening in the world as it gives them a sense of hope. Indeed, John’s act of honesty has made our world a kinder, happier and more hopeful place to live, because as Master said in the Award letter, “one good deed leads to another,” and more people will surely be inspired to follow the noble example of this young boy. Caption: The Bouterse family, Scout troop and friends
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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By UK News Group (Originally in English)
In February of Golden Year 6 (2009), Supreme Master Ching Hai rewarded the bravery and unconditional love of Miss Chantal McGowan with the Shining World Heroine Award. Fifteen-year-old Chantal was at home when a fire broke out in the kitchen, setting the fire alarms off. Her first thought, without care for her own safety, was to rescue her three-year-old sister, Savanha, who was upstairs. Paramedics rushed Chantal to the hospital where she received treatment for smoke inhalation and praised Chantal saying, “She kept calm and acted decisively in what must have been a scary situation and ensured both she and her sister were safe.” Supreme Master Ching Hai also gave Chantal US$1,000 and US$2,000 to her family. Chantal wrote a touching letter to Master, expressing her own and her mother Tina’s gratitude and appreciation for the “beautiful” Award, and all the gifts they have received. She said, “The books are fantastic, as well as me my sister loves The Birds in My Life and The Dogs in my Life…personally my favorite has to be Pebbles and Gold as the poems are so beautiful… Also the CD is lovely and I love it because it is so relaxing and I love world music as I am an operatic soprano singer.” She added that Master’s financial contribution has really helped her out with buying stuff for school and replaced things lost to the fire. We wish the brave and loving Chantal all the very best for the future and may God bless her always.
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A Visionary Sustainable Public Health Scientist
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By Illinois News Group, USA (Originally in English)
On April 24, Golden Year 6 (2009), on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai, the Illinois Center News Team went to Madison, Wisconsin, to present the Shining World Hero Award to an excellent environmental health scientist, Dr. Jonathan Patz. He is an associate professor of Environmental Studies and Population Health Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and also a lead author of four reports from the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). In March of last year, in an interview for Supreme Master Television, Dr. Patz shared alarming information regarding the heightened health issues borne out of global warming. Passionately responding to the shocking increase in global epidemics, he has dedicated his life and work to changing the way people live. The Award was presented in recognition of his outstanding efforts and enlightened leadership in creating a sustainable future through his exemplary vision for public health. During the interview with our Association members following the presentation at the university, Dr. Patz stated that it appears that global warming is happening at a pace more rapid than first reported and this causes an increasing threat to environmental health. He said that the public is getting the message and doing something; however, for there to be an effective response to global warming, people would have to consider changing to a vegetarian diet. He expressed his gratitude to Master and Supreme Master Television for communicating the science and urgency of climate change as well as its sustainable solutions. Dr. Patz was very appreciative of receiving the Award, Master’s letter, the hero jacket and many other gifts. Looking at his wife, who was present at the ceremony, he even jokingly said that he was not sure if he wanted to share the vegan cake made especially for him. We thank Dr. Patz for waking us up from our complacency, and for encouraging and inspiring all to adopt the more ecological and sustainable plant-based diet for environmental and human health. Caption: Dr. Jonathan Patz and his wife
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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Police Officer’s Fast Action Saves Life
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By Michigan News Group, USA (Originally in English)
“I happened to be at the right place at the right time” was the humble remark of Police Officer Mark Krutell, reflecting on his actions that saved the life of an unconscious man he pulled out of a smoke-filled car just seconds before it burst into flames. The Clinton Township Police Officer was patrolling on duty when he saw a smoking car with flames coming from under the hood and heard screams for help from people nearby. Without hesitation, Officer Krutell ran to the automobile, broke the window and, after several attempts, unlocked the car door. Unable to see in the dense smoke, he reached into the car and pulled out the driver who had lost consciousness due to a medical condition. Seconds later, the car exploded and was consumed by flames. The man was taken to a hospital and ultimately recovered. In recognition of his selfless assistance, loving life-saving action, and valiantly ensuring the public’s wellbeing and safety, Officer Mark Krutell was presented with the Life Saving Award from Police Chief Fred Posavetz and the Shining World Hero Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai. The ceremonies took place at the Clinton Township Board of Trustees Meeting on June 15, Golden Year 6 (2009), in front of the Board members and an audience of about 200 people, including Mr. Krutell’s wife and children. The event is now on Clinton Township’s permanent Board records. In addition to the crystal plaque, a golden, framed thank-you letter signed by Supreme Master Ching Hai was presented by our Association members. Officer Krutell also received gifts of Master’s publications and a Hero Jacket. He expressed his sincere thanks to Supreme Master Ching Hai and he and his family were all delighted for the honor he had received. A family man at heart, Officer Mark Krutell embraced his children and kissed his wife, saying, “This is why I do it. This is why I do my job!” We are grateful to have in our world such an angel of protection with exceptional courage, skill, dedication, and extraordinary care and concern, beyond the call of duty.
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To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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The Heroic Spirit Lives On
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By Philippine News Group (Originally in Tagalog)
Jimmy Luis, a loving husband and a father of four, left a legacy of compassion and courage for his family and the public at large. On the night of January 11, 2009, a fire broke out beside his house. Without a thought for his own safety, Jimmy immediately rushed out to warn his neighbors and upon returning saw his own house had caught fire! He braved the flames, rushing in again and again to rescue his wife and children. When he went in for the last time to rescue his 12-year-old son, he failed to return. The fire destroyed 20 houses in total and left 250 people homeless. Jimmy had sacrificed his life for his loved ones and selflessly saved the lives of his neighbors. In memory of his courageous actions, Jimmy was rightly honored with the Shining World Hero Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai, presented on February 16 at the Public Recreation Hall of Tondo Sports Complex in Divisoria, Manila. Mrs. Arlene Luis, who accepted the Award from our Association members for her husband, was deeply touched to see that Jimmy’s courageous deeds had been recognized. She was grateful that, through Jimmy, the Supreme Master had been introduced into her life and understood her needs, sending her many gifts and a US$2,000 check to help her get through her deep loss. Arlene also thanked Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her unconditional love and support for her family and mankind as a whole. Caption: Receipt from Mrs. Arlene Luis for the US$2,000 contribution by Master
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The Love and Loyalty of a Faithful Friend
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By Rochester News Group, USA (Originally in English)
It was on New Year’s Eve, Golden Year 5 (2008) that Mr. Thaddeus Samborski discovered the depth of love and loyalty of his companion Joey, a beautiful chocolate-colored Labrador Retriever. On that night of sub-freezing temperatures, Mr. Samborski was taking Joey out into the backyard of his home for a short walk when he slipped on the ice and hit his head on the pavement. He was knocked unconscious and lying in the snow. Although Joey was free and unleashed, he stayed by Mr. Samborski’s side for six hours. Joey tried to keep him warm with his own body heat, barked for attention, and attempted to pull Mr. Samborski inside the house. A neighbor eventually heard Joey and saw Mr. Samborski lying in the snow; she immediately called an ambulance. Though Mr. Samborski is over 80 years old, he was able to recover from his injuries. In North Tonawanda, New York, on April 18, our Association members went to Mr. Samborski’s home on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai to present Joey with the Shining World Hero Award. Joey received a beautiful crystal plaque, a Hero jacket, a dog bed, some vegetarian dog food and treats, and a few of Master’s CDs and DVDs. Supreme Master Ching Hai also gave US$100 to help with Joey’s care. In his acceptance speech Mr. Samborksi became quite emotional discussing the events of the night when he fell and the love and care that Joey had shown to him. What a true hero, Joey! You bring new meaning to the word “friend.” May your loyalty and unconditional love remind people everywhere of the beauty and dignity of all animals.
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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The Brave and Loyal Family Protector
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By Montreal News Group, Canada (Originally in English)
Early one Sunday morning in January Golden Year 6 (2009), Sergeant Andrew Ronalds and his two sons, aged two and five, were sleeping in the basement of their home in Oromocto, Canada, when a fire started. The barking of Lexi, the family Labrador Retriever, alerted Sergeant Ronalds. He came upstairs to find the back of his house on fire and quickly ran down to get his sons safely outside the home. Unfortunately, the flames were too much for him to re-enter for Lexi.. Upon learning of Lexi’s noble sacrifice, Supreme Master Ching Hai posthumously presented the Shining World Hero Award to her in recognition of outstanding courage and unwavering loyalty. On June 13, initiates from the Montreal Center drove to Lexi’s home and presented the Award and a US$500 contribution from Master to Sergeant Ronalds and his family. The Ronalds were extremely grateful to receive them in tribute to Lexi. We are so glad to hear that Sergeant Ronalds and his two sons were kept from harm and wish for them to be blessed with a new home soon. Our heartfelt condolences for the loss of devoted Lexi. May her loving soul rest in the eternal splendor of the divine. Caption: Receipt from Sergeant Ronalds for the US$500 contributed by Master
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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Loving Mother Dog Saves a Human Baby
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By Argentina News Group (Originally in Spanish)
On December 12, Golden Year 5 (2008), in La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina, a dog named “China” was honored with the Shining World Hero Award by Supreme Master Ching Hai, for her brave maternal love. On a frigid night last winter China found an abandoned baby girl in a field and carried her back to the pen that held her own newborn pups. Together with her pups China kept the baby warm through the night until her human caretaker heard the cries of the infant and took her to the local hospital for medical attention. The baby was aptly named “Esperanza,” meaning hope, at the hospital. An Association member presented the beautiful Shining World Hero Award plaque to China along with Master’s books and other gifts for her caretaker, all of which were gracefully received. China was also blessed with vegetarian food treats, Happy Doggie clothes and a new bed. Love shone from China’s eyes, as she listened to our representative reading the letter from Supreme Master Ching Hai. China’s action of love emanates the nobility of the beings portrayed in Master’s books The Birds in My Life and The Dogs in My Life. May China’s magnanimous heart inspire us to embrace all other co-inhabitants of this Earth.
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A Friendship for Life
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By Melbourne News Group, Australia (Originally in English)
In March Golden Year 6 (2009), our Association members from Melbourne, Australia presented Khali-Maa, the loyal canine friend of Mr. Darren Penrose, with the Shining World Hero Award, on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Khali-Maa, a kelpie dog, saved her human companion from a burning house by alerting him to the impending peril. Last October in Aldinga Beach, South Australia, the back of Darren’s house caught on fire at about 1:30 a.m. Khali-Maa barked determinedly to awaken him, and both were able to escape to safety through the front of the house. As the fire blazed through the rest of the house Darren ran to alert his neighbours. However, not knowing where he went, Khali-Maa made her way back into the house looking for him. When Darren returned and couldn’t find her, he was extremely concerned. The distraught caregiver tried to go back into the house to look for Khali-Maa, but was driven back by the intense heat and smoke. Unable to find his dearly loved dog, Darren reluctantly returned to the front yard where he was treated for smoke inhalation by the ambulance personnel. Moments later, Khali-Maa miraculously appeared by jumping through a window to safety. Darren was overjoyed to be reunited again with his beloved canine friend. Both made it out of the fire alive, but the house and all of Darren’s belongings were completely destroyed. As if hearing Darren’s prayers, Supreme Master Ching Hai sent a financial contribution of US$2,000 along with the Award, which Darren was pleased to receive. With the financial assistance, he was able to buy himself a bed, some furniture and other needed items. Master also lovingly sent a doggie bed, vegan dog food and two beautiful hero jackets for Khali-Maa. Our gratitude goes to the noble-hearted Khali-Maa for her life-saving fire alert. May she and her human caregiver enjoy many more cherished times together. Caption: Receipt from Darren for the US$2,000 contribution by Master
To watch Supreme Master TV's interviews and coverage of this Award presentation, please visit:
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| Letter of Appreciation
Loving Contribution to Msgr. Catral
In April Golden Year 6 (2009), Archbishop Talamayan of Tuguegarao, the Philippines invited Supreme Master Ching Hai to join in the celebration of Msgr. Catral’s Diamond Jubilee in the priesthood. The celebration was held to commemorate Msgr. Catral’s major milestone in a lifetime of devotion to humankind at the Shrine of Santo Niño in San Gabriel, Tuguegarao City, as well as for fund-raising for the renovation of the Shrine of Sto. Niño, which the Msgr. Catral had helped build. Deeply impressed by Msgr. Catral’s dedication to both people and environment, Master made a generous contribution of US$10,000 for the renovation, to recognize Msgr. Castral’s 60 years of public service and to show Her support for his acts of charity and benevolence to society. Upon receiving the contribution, Msgr. Catral wrote letters to Master to express his sincere appreciation; and on behalf of Archbishop Talamayan, he was pleased to inform Master that they have a pilot parish where they train and educate farmers in the organic method of farming, realizing the urgent need to protect our environment. Master has always been very supportive of Archbishop Talamayan’s services in Tuguegarao. In 2008, Master contributed US$10,000 to help his fund-raising effort to build a House of Prayer for a local community, thus enabling and encouraging people in the Philippines to seek inner contact with God (News #198.) In 2007, Master also contributed a total amount of US$135,000 for the clergy’s retirement home project in Tuguegarao (News #185, #189 and #192). Below is the letter of thanks from Msgr. Catral.
Caption: Receipt and thank-you letter from Msgr. Catral’s for the US$10,000 contribution by Master
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Supreme Master Ching Hai Helps Young Boy Prodigy
An eight-year-old Indian boy, Aman Rehman, who excels at creating computer-generated animated films, received a congratulatory letter from Supreme Master Ching Hai on March 24, 2009. Master also offered the prodigy boy US$2,000 through the Tasmia All India Educational and Social Welfare Society to support his creativity and skill. When Aman was just three-and-a-half years old, he designed his first animation program; since then, he has created more than 2,000 animated movies. He now teaches one evening a week at Dehra Dun's College of Interactive Arts, where he is also a student. His diligence and ingenuity has been rewarded with 10 years’ free education and a laptop computer given by the State Chief Minister. Last year, Aman was honored by the President of India, Her Excellency Shrimati Pratibha Devisingh Patil, who presented him with a “Proud Child” award. The N.G.O. wrote a letter of appreciation to Supreme Master Ching Hai expressing their gratitude, “ …Aman has accomplished a wonderful feat at this young age. He hails from a poor family. Your help of 2,000 US dollars along with the letter has been applauded… Your blessing will go a long way in wishing Aman Rehman at this tender age in a world wizard of Animation. On behalf of my organization and on behalf of people of Dehradun, I express our gratitude and greetings to your good self and we appreciate your virtual message of international brotherhood and many...” Congratulations, Aman Rehman, on your wonderful achievement. We look forward to more of your creative works. We wish that all talented youngsters may thrive in supportive and loving environments. Caption: Receipt from Aman Rehman for the US$2,000 contribution by Master
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The Dedicated Doctors for Developing Countries
By Berlin News Group, Germany (Originally in German)
When Jesuit Priest Bernhard Ehlen visited Somalia in the early 80s for the first time, he was saddened to see many people weakened by permanent malnutrition who could not sustain a basic immune system to prevent infectious diseases. Thus, he established the Doctors for Developing Countries committee that enables doctors to use their annual holiday to provide free medical services in needy and poor areas. Over the last 25 years, the committee has carried out over 3,800 missions with the help of approximately 2,100 dedicated doctors, who serve under physically and hygienically challenging conditions. Not only do they work without any remuneration, they also cover at least half of their own travel expenses. With the doctors’ enthusiasm convincing other colleagues to join, new areas of extended services have been established in Bangladesh, Rwanda and Kenya, as well as South America after the Philippines and Kolkata, India. In recognition of their outstanding efforts and noble ideas, Supreme Master Ching Hai sent Father Ehlen and Doctors for Developing Countries a thank-you letter and a contribution of €10,000, which were presented on May 18, Golden Year 6 (2009), by members of our Association. Father Ehlen was deeply touched when he received the letter and contribution from Master and told of his organization joining efforts with the German government to develop policies and implement programs to alleviate suffering. The organization also helps local people to improve their lives in other ways such as drilling wells for fresh water and providing job opportunities like teaching sari embroidery and growing edible mushrooms to help people help themselves. Thank you, Father Ehlen and the doctors with the organization, for your noble work in aiding the less fortunate around the globe. May heaven bless these selfless endeavors with evermore success. Reference: http://www.german-doctors.de/ Caption: Receipt from Father Bernhard Ehlen for the €10,000 contributed by Master
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| Master Tells Jokes
A Friend in Need
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai Paris 4-Day International Retreat, France, December 26, 2007 (Originally in English) DVD#817
An ant and an elephant became sworn brothers. The elephant was injured in a traffic accident one day, and was rushed to the hospital. Hearing such bad news, the ant hurried to the hospital and met a rabbit on the way, who asked him why he was in such a rush. The ant said, “My big brother was badly hurt, I am rushing to the hospital to give him a blood transfusion!”
Please enjoy the original audio recording at the following Web site and share Master’s wonderful humor with all those around you.
The Consequences of Dating
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai Paris 4-day International Retreat, France, December 26, 2007 (Originally in English) DVD#817
A boy says to his girlfriend, “Sweetheart! Do you know that since I met you, I can’t eat, I can’t sleep, and I can’t drink?” The girl asks, “But why?” The boy says, “Because I’m broke!”
Please enjoy the original audio recording at the following Web site and share Master’s wonderful humor with all those around you.
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| Hot Topic
Stop Livestock Production
- A Viral Breeding Ground
Compiled from Supreme Master Television (Originally in English)
On June 11, 2009, two months after the first reported human infections of H1N1 flu (originally called swine flu) in North America, the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the pandemic alert to phase six—the highest level—as infections climbed in the United States, Europe, Australia, South America, and elsewhere. Worldwide, the H1N1 flu has cost 2,594 lives since April 2009, out of 254,947 officially reported cases in about 180 countries as of August 25th with the number of fatalities rising continually. About half of the people who died were young and previously healthy, and not usually susceptible to flu. This is the first global flu epidemic in 41 years. The last pandemic, the Hong Kong flu of 1968, killed about one million people worldwide. In November 2008, well before this devastating flu epidemic had emerged, mycologist Mr. Paul Stamets, an advisor to the University of Arizona College of Medicine, USA, spoke to Supreme Master Television anticipating the threat of a global pandemic arising from the raising of pigs. Mr. Stamets stated, “This is the scariest scenario that most virologists are extremely concerned about: A pig and a bird will infect a pig, both with flu viruses. In the pig, then the flu viruses can recombine and that pig then can have a novel virus that will spread human to human. It’s not just likely; it’s extremely probable that pandemic flu will go human to human in the next ten years. This is the biggest threat to the ‘bio-security’ of nations throughout the entire world!” H1N1 flu is a new strain of the influenza virus first detected in people in the United States in April. It was originally referred to as “swine flu” because laboratory testing showed that its genes were very similar to influenza viruses that normally occur in pigs in North America. However, a further study has shown that this new virus is actually an unusually mongrelized mix of genetic sequences from four different flu viruses—North American swine flu, North American bird flu, human flu, and Eurasian swine flu. The new virus was produced when a pig was infected at the same time by all these viruses, which recombined in the pig's body. By comparison to ordinary flu that kills about 250,000 to 500,000 people each year, this pandemic appears to be moderate at the current stage, especially in developed countries, according to WHO, but it is prudent to anticipate a bleaker picture as the virus spreads to areas with limited resources, poor health care, and a high prevalence of underlying medical problems. Moreover, it’s uncertain at this time how this new virus may affect people during the upcoming influenza season in the fall and winter. Experts fear that the current virus could mutate into a much deadlier form and re-emerge with greater force in subsequent waves. The results of these infections could eventually resemble, or be even worse than, the 1918 flu pandemic that claimed between 50 and 100 million lives. WHO Director General Dr. Margaret Chan recently reported on August 29th that this latest outbreak of swine flu is spreading at shocking speed—four times the rate of other viruses. “This virus travels at an unbelievable, almost unheard of speed. In six weeks it travels the same distance that other viruses take six months to cover... Forty percent of the fatalities concern young adults—in good health—who die of a viral fever in five to seven days. This is the most worrying fact.” Scientists differ in their opinions about the origin of this new virus and no direct evidence has been found. It is commonly believed that the human, chicken, duck, and pig cohabitation conditions found in the farms of developing countries provide a breeding ground for new hybrid strains, and favors trans-species virility. Modern factory farms where thousands of animals are crowded into filthy football-field-size sheds, to lie snout to snout in their own waste, can also be a breeding ground for disease, according to Dr. Michael Gregor, a physician and the Director of Public Health and Animal Agriculture for the Humane Society of the United States. He also said, “The only other time we’ve ever seen a swine flu virus like the one we now face—a triple-hybrid mutant containing pig, human and bird’s genes—was on a factory farm in North Carolina in 1998.” The sheer volume of animals confined to a small space in stressful and inhumane conditions means that once a virus enters a population, it is more likely to spread than in a free range setting. Moreover, these abused and tortured animals that are being raised for meat have extremely weak immune systems due to being fed an improper and unwholesome diet, being given little to no freedom of movement, and being subjected to non-stop high levels of stress. Thus viruses thrive as these animals have little resistance to illness. As the animals are kept mostly in dark conditions, viruses can replicate quickly because sunlight, which possesses UV rays that can neutralize viruses, is simply not present. In addition, the massive overuse of antibiotics by farmers to try and stem illnesses in the animals only makes things worse, because “it suppresses the bacterial infections but that also allows for the environment to be in place for rapid evolution or mutation of viruses,” said Robert P. Martin, former Executive Director of the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production. The transport of animals during the meat production process, especially in modern times, also increases their exposure to other animals and humans, and thus multiplies the chance for new strains of viruses to combine and thus enable flu to become even more virulent. Raising animals for meat is not only a cruelty for animals but also enhances the probability of producing new viruses. A study indicates a 99-percent correlation between the number of pig farms and the number of human swine flu cases at a provincial level. In other words, swine flu is far more common and severe in areas with pig factory farms. Two recent US-based Huffington Post articles highlighted the need for more government and media attention to swine flu’s suspected origin in industrial-scale animal farms, stating, “this pandemic reminds us that the current method of raising farm animals is fraught with risks to human health… As part of its efforts to mitigate the risk of a catastrophic flu pandemic, Congress should adopt a national moratorium on industrial animal operations.” The articles urged for investigations into “these toxic disease breeding grounds.” As we pray for the virus to diminish, we know that the root solution remains in the adoption of an organic, vegan lifestyle, to eliminate the risk of animal-related infections and to restore the vitality of all humanity. May the day come soon that fatal, animal-originated diseases such as these no longer exist, as society turns more and more to the life-saving and immunity-boosting organic vegan diet. Source:
To watch Supreme Master TV interviews on the threat of a global pandemic caused by pig factory farms, please visit:
Save Animals from Exploitation (SAFE): New Zealand’s Love Pigs Campaign:
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Save Our Earth Conference 2009 -
Another Big Boost for Korea and the World
By Korea News Group (Originally in Korean)
Following last year’s successful conference with Supreme Master Ching Hai on the urgent issue of global warming, another big event was held in Central City Millennium Hall, Seoul, South Korea, entitled “Save Our Earth Conference 2009 - Protecting the Environment and Respecting All Lives” on April 26, Golden Year 6 (2009). The conference, supported by the Korean Ministry of Environment, was hosted by the environmentally conscious Chungnyunsa Publishing Company that printed the Korean edition of The Birds in My Life written by Supreme Master Ching Hai. About 1,700 guests participated in this grand occasion to discuss climate change and its solutions and celebrate The Birds in My Life becoming a best seller in the Poem and Essay section in Kyobo Book Centre, the largest bookstore chain in Korea. Mr. Jung Soon-Gap, who served as the Administrator of the Korea Meteorological Administration up until a few months ago, and is currently the executive director of World Meteorological Organization, in addressing global warming, gave a very graphic description of the deteriorating conditions at the poles and of many of the glaciers due to increased temperatures and their detrimental impacts on our world. He also explained how the vegetarian diet is both the adaptation and mitigation solution to this serious problem. Dr. Michael Bascombe, an Australian animal telepathic communicator and veterinarian, thanked Supreme Master Ching Hai for giving him the opportunity to fulfill his role as an ambassador and spokesperson for the animals. He told everyone that the animals, “… are here to support us, are here to balance our mistakes, are here to balance our aggression, and they asked me to tell you, ‘Still, peace, harmony, joy. Be gentle to the planet, be gentle to yourself, be gentle to animals. Spend more time feeling the animals.’” He also said of the animals, “They forgive us. They are aware of our journey. The animals see who we are inside, they see how we are on the outside, and they’re asking for us to come Home.” During the question-and-answer session, Master patiently and lovingly provided thorough answers to a wide range of questions from participants of various expertise such as Mr. Lee Seok-Hyun and Mr. Kang Chang-Il, Congressmen of the Democratic Party; Mr. Yoon Gi-Hyun, renowned children’s author and lecturer of children’s story writing at the University of Seoul; Ms. Kim Ju-Hwa, Public Prosecutor (vegetarian); Mr. Na Young-Cheol, President of Ecology TV and CTN TV and the Director of the Korea Mass Media Club; and Mr. Kim Dong-Wan, Program Director of Arirang TV. Mr. Kim Dong-Hyun, a journalist from Chosun Ilbo asked about the role of religion in solving environmental problems. In responding to this very important question, Master said, “Religious leaders can give voice and strive to be a living example of the noble teachings according to their original founders, such as Jesus, Prophet Muhammad, Buddha, Guru Nanak, etc … who espoused the compassionate vegetarian lifestyle. The scriptures from the teachings of these sages all emphasize the need to care for one another and be good stewards of our Earth.” Professor Choi Haeng-Sik, Vice Chairman of the Korean Law Association, Chairman of the Global Warming Emergency Measures Committee and a vegetarian stated that government law should ban killing and meat-eating; however, he thinks law enforcement is not a fundamental solution. Master agreed, “Animals have the same right to dignity and happiness as humans, so we have to bring the standard of the legal structure up to a nobler level.” She pointed out, “It is an inner quality that we can awaken and then cultivate. We can also encourage others toward these standards.” She suggested that like-minded thinkers can come together to urge the government to enact new laws, such as the Meat-Free Act or the Killing Ban Act that Professor Choi had mentioned. Master encouraged Mr. Na Young-Cheol, who is the President of Ecology TV and CTN TV as well as the Director of the Korea Mass Media Club, to continue with the work he is doing now, making a huge constructive impact on peoples’ lives and healing the planet, and especially to promote the vegan, because this is the one thing that everyone can do easily that makes the biggest difference for our survival. Yeo Sook-Dong, a professor at Korea National Defense University and a former Colonel in the Korean Army, was concerned about the conflicts between countries that are a result of global warming and how governments can prepare themselves for these kinds of situations. Master said that continued food and water shortages due to climate change are bound to cause conflicts for survival, and a compassionate, noble lifestyle not only benefits the planet in its reduction of greenhouse gases, but also opens up land and delivers crops to humans that were previously being grown for animal feed. Moreover, a plant-based diet saves immensely on water. Master praised the very enlightened reporter from Seoul Broadcasting System, Ms. Park Hyun-Jung, who asked about the relationship between global warming and meditation. She explained, “Meditation could be said to help counteract global warming in part, because most traditions of spiritual practice uphold guidelines that include a respect for all life, which means no killing, no causing suffering to others, and thus to be a vegetarian. With the world populated by benevolent vegan citizens, the…‘karmic debt’ from meat-eating is reduced, as will the devastating effects of such a diet.” Mr. Kim Dong-Wan, Program Director of Arirang TV, asked a question that was on many people’s minds, regarding the daily countdown on Supreme Master TV of the days to save the planet. Master confirmed that it is the number of days that we have left to save the planet and this number serves as a reminder and gives us a sense of the true urgency at hand. However, She announced some good news, “We have reached a critical mass, or a certain number of human beings who have kept the vegetarian diet or turned to the vegan diet. And when a certain number is reached, we call it critical mass. Then that critical mass will influence the other beings on the planet, all the humans…. It could mean that more people are open to change in their heart… to be more loving, kind and compassionate, and to switching to the life-sustaining vegan diet. This is the primary change which will save all lives that are still left, and the planet.” Dada Cittarainjanananda, Ph.D, an author, meditation teacher and vegetarian, asked Master’s opinion on the cause of the economic crisis the world is now facing from a holistic and universal viewpoint. Master replied, “It’s bad karma, bad retribution of our actions from many, many centuries, not just now. From a more spiritual perspective, of course we can see that the current global economic crisis is caused by our departure from the virtuous principles that we have learned from past and present Masters, such as the basic concepts of sharing and kindness, noble living and compassionate lifestyle.” She reminded everyone, “God has given the world an abundance of resources to survive in comfort, as long as we live within the principles of virtue, moral standard, which once again include no violence, no killing, no harming - ahimsa. And actually, this principle of ahimsa can be applied very directly to the economic picture.” Results of a Netherlands’ study showed that to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions to make the planet habitable again would cost about US$40 trillion. However, they found that this cost was cut by half if all people reduced their meat intake, ate more vegetarian. And if people globally stopped consuming all animal products altogether – meaning the vegan diet, then the savings would be 80%! During the interviews after the conference, many participants said they were inspired by Master’s words and example, and they are determined to start the vegetarian diet, or to go completely vegan. Dada Cittarainjanananda was very impressed that Master was able to continuously transmit the same level of love and vibration throughout the entire conference despite the long hours. He was touched by Her messages and thought She is truly a great Master. Dr. Michael Bascombe said that the animals are very happy about the conference and they have another message which is, “They are a little bit exhausted … from our misunderstanding, from what we are doing to the planet, what we are doing to the animals, and to each other. They would like us to elevate our conscious awareness, they would like us to connect with the God within and be peaceful, be calm, and when this happens …, everything will reset and be normal … the environment can go back to being restful, peaceful and heal itself.” Following the delicious vegan buffet was a concert celebrating the Korean edition of The Birds in My Life organized by Mr. Hwang Ho-Joon, leader of the Woojunakta music band. The conference, which was broadcast by Korea’s largest national TV station, KBS, during prime time news, generated an enthusiastic response from audiences across the country. It was also covered by numerous newspapers and Internet media in Korea. Dr. Kim Kyung-Young, President of Rami Land Environment Development Research Center, was so inspired and impressed by the event, that about a month later, at a gathering at which she was the chairperson, she played a global warming video from the conference and encouraged all participants to try a vegetarian diet. Mr. Na Young-Cheol of Ecology TV and Korea Mass Media Club plans to produce vegetarian-related TV programs in the near future. We thank the Korean people for hosting such an enlightening event and taking the lead in spreading the benefits of the vegan diet through mass media. May more people embrace the compassionate lifestyle of peace and harmony to save our planet.
To watch Supreme Master Television’s coverage of this videoconference, please visit:
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“Be Organic Vegan to Save the Planet” --- Live Videoconference with Supreme Master Ching Hai
By Togo News Group (Originally in French)
The city of Lomé in Togo, West Africa was blessed to be host of an important conference on climate change with Supreme Master Ching Hai. The event, titled “Be Organic Vegan to Save the Planet,” took place on May 9, Golden Year 6 (2009) in the Lomé Conference Hall, and was aired live by Supreme Master TV, LCF - a satellite station, which can be viewed across most major African cities, as well as several radio stations including Nana FM, Nostalgie, and Sport FM in Togo; Hot FM in Ghana; and Tokpa FM in Benin. It was announced during the conference that The Dogs in My Life book was officially released in Nairobi, Kenya on April 22. The English versions of The Noble Wilds and The Realization of Health, along with the French version of The Birds in My Life, are also available for sale in Kenya as well as Togo, Africa. About 3,000 guests attended the conference, including VIPs such as Mr. Leandré Gebenyedji, the representative for the Mayor of Lomé; Dr. Kodjo Agbéyomé Messan, the former President of the National Assembly and former Prime Minister of Togo; Mr. Kwabena O. Acheampong, the Deputy Minister of Tourism from Ghana and Dr. Ofei-Kwasi Agyemang, a respected vegan naturopath from Ghana. Even though the President of Togo was unable to attend personally, he sent his best regards with the Secretary General, Mr. Ahoomey-Zunu Seleagodji, who was his representative. The conference opened with wonderful Togolese traditional dances and songs. In appreciation of their artistic contribution, Master sent gifts to all the performers. Ms. Juliet Gellatley, founder and Director of Viva! and The Vegetarian & Vegan Foundation in the UK; Mr. Shaw Liu, Director of the Research Center for Environmental Change at Academia Sinica in Taipei, Formosa (Taiwan); Mr. Jack Bayles, a vegan and the Managing Director & Co-founder of Alishan Pty. Ltd., Japan; and Mr. Oliver Smith, Deputy Director of Programs at WWF UK, all sent their support and shared their thoughts on the importance of the organic vegan diet. The first guest speaker was Mr. Ahlounsou Sorou Lucien, a vegan and the Head of the Prospecting & Development of l’Oueme & Plateau Departments in Benin, who explained the meaning of global warming, the prime causes of greenhouse gas emissions being mainly man-made sources, and recommended the organic vegan diet as the solution to this problem. He concluded, “It’s up to each of us to find the solution; and if we don’t, we are going toward a collective suicide.” The next speaker was Dr. Ofei-Kwasi Agyemang, a vegan Naturopath from Ghana, who dismissed the notion that humans need to get protein from meat because proteins can be found in fruits and vegetables. He said animal products are indigestible and remain in our digestive system for a long period of time, resulting in all the diseases that we are contracting today. Mr. Gebenyedji, representative for the Mayor of Lomé, reflected on the dangerous reality of climate change and called upon all people to take seriously the warming issue of our planet and to continue their efforts to make our world a harmonious place to live. During the question and answer session, Ms. Cécile Sompougdou a vegetarian and accountant from Burkina Faso, asked why we are now contracting so many diseases from animals like mad cow disease, bird flu and most recently swine flu. She wondered if the animals are trying to tell us that meat consumption is not good for humans. Master pointed out that these diseases were not the making of the animals; rather, the deplorable conditions they’re living in are the real cause. She said the animals do want humans to wake up to the dangers that we are creating, not just for them but for humankind, “because even though the animals themselves are forgiving, the physical law of the universe states that for every action there is a consequence. So, if we wish to live healthily, happily ourselves, we should let others live, likewise. This is the best guideline. If we live in peace with other beings, meaning we don’t try to make them our food, we don’t make them suffer, then we will never worry about disease, and our life and the planet will be quickly like that of Heaven.” Dr. Kodjo Agbéyomé Messan, former President of the National Assembly and former Prime Minister of Togo, asked for advice from Master on how to motivate citizens in Africa to act on global warming, because most of them are not concerned about this issue and think the Westerners are responsible for this calamity due to their large scale animal agriculture practiced. Master said, “Global warming does not spare anyone. Each person is responsible to do their best to awaken the noble qualities in themselves to save the planet and, of course, their lives and the lives of their family.” She reminded everyone, “Global warming is not about blame. We all have a shared planet and we have shared responsibility, and we all want it to be saved for every one of us.” Mr. Prosper Akpabla, a mechanical engineer, said some think that global warming is a punishment from the gods. How can the vegan diet calm the gods? Master answered that the effects of planetary warming that we are experiencing are not a punishment from Heaven, from God, but a consequences of our actions. She explained, “Global warming follows the universal principle that every action brings a response, or we could say a consequence. So, if humanity acts in ways that are considerate and kind, the universe will bring consideration and kindness in return.” In regards to the vegan diet, She said not only does it remove harmful methane from the atmosphere, but also “on a deeper level, it removes the killing actions and replaces them with kindness so that the entire planet becomes filled with this essential goodness, positive benevolent energy. And then surely, the gods will also be pleased, forever after.” Master also shared Her insightful thoughts and gave practical advice on many other subjects, including fish farming, the benefits of the vegan diet, the education of children and teens, organic vegan farming, alternative energy sources to burning fossil fuels like coal as well as the role of the media and government in fighting global warming. After the conference, delicious vegan food was served to all the guests, many of whom said that they would become vegan if they could eat delicious food like this every day. Reporters from television, radio and newspapers continue to request more information about global warming as well as the vegan diet. Overall, the conference was a huge success, thanks to Master’s blessing, the dedicated efforts of the many initiates who traveled across the globe for the preparation work, and the Togo Presidential Office that kindly offered assistance in resolving Internet issues during the event. Our gratitude also goes to all the government officials, experts and special guests who took their precious time to support this meaningful occasion. May more African people learn the truth about our planetary crisis from these discussions and turn to the life-saving vegan diet in time so that all beings can enjoy a peaceful life on Earth with God’s abundant loving grace.
To watch Supreme Master Television’s coverage of this videoconference, please visit:
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Into the Golden Age – the City of Santiago in Philippines Designates Veggie Day
By Formosa News Group (Originally in English)
The love and effort that Supreme Master Ching Hai has shown in guiding people and Governments toward a compassionate lifestyle has fostered a growing sense of responsibility in different parts of the world. Less than two weeks after the Belgian city of Ghent declared Thursday a “vegetarian day,” the City of Santiago in the Philippines has followed suit through passing a resolution on May 25 Golden Year 6 (2009) at a special City Council meeting to promote a compassionate, animal-free lifestyle in order to save our Earth. Mayor Amelita S Navarro then chose Fridays as their “Veggie Day” to implement the noble legislation. At the special City Council meeting, the resolution was signed following a visual presentation by Mayor Navarro on the effects of a recent typhoon and a brief SOS seminar hosted by our Association members. The Mayor said that the designated day was in accord with the Christian tradition of meatless Fridays. She expressed her commitment to adopt a vegetarian diet and invited the City Council members to join her in setting a leading example for their citizens with the understanding that a vegan diet can solve 80% of the global warming crisis. The council meeting and the SOS seminars came about after Mayor Navarro’s invitation to Master to be a keynote speaker at the 102nd Annual Auxiliary Convention held on May 21 in Manila. Due to Her busy schedule, Master sent representatives including physicians on Her behalf who addressed the subject of global warming and the benefit of a plant-based diet at the convention. Mayor Navarro, who is also the President of the Auxiliary to the Philippine Medical Association (APMA), honored Master with a Trophy of Appreciation for Her efforts in spreading the vegetarian message to save our Earth. The Mayor also spoke of her deep concern for the landslide and flood victims in her city, due to a recent typhoon, and invited our members to hold SOS seminars for the citizens of Santiago City. Upon learning of the suffering of Santiago’s typhoon victims, Master lovingly offered a contribution of US$10,000 and asked our members to convey Her sympathy and prayers for their early recovery. The fund was presented to Mayor Navarro at the first SOS seminar organized by our Association members for the city officials and barangay chiefs at Santiago City Museum. Master’s generosity won warm-hearted gratitude from the entire audience. The city government then hosted its first-ever vegetarian dinner for the occasion. The second seminar successfully reached over 1,000 city employees and attracted much media attention. Mayor Navarro showed great reverence for Master, hanging up a huge banner that read “Welcome Supreme Master Ching Hai.” At the last seminar, more than 150 young academicians read aloud a powerful, signed Manifesto entitled “Our Commitment to Vegetarianism.” Before returning to Formosa, our Association members visited the President of the National Commission for Culture and Arts (NCCA), Ms. Cecile Alvarez, and contributed 2,000 copies of Master’s best selling book The Birds in My Life on May 26 to the Director of National Library, Mrs. Prudenciana C. Cruz, who expressed her appreciation of the meaningful gifts and Master’s love and said she would distribute the books to all the affiliated public libraries in the Philippines. Let us congratulate Mayor Navarro, the Santiago Government and all her citizens for joining in the worldwide effort to create a loving, peaceful and harmonious planet through a compassionate diet.
To watch Supreme Master TV’s interviews and coverage of Santiago Mayor in Philippines promoting vegetarianism, please visit:
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Love in Action
Honduras
Master’s Love Embraces Honduran Earthquake Victims
By Costa Rica and Colombia Relief Teams (Originally in Spanish)
Early on June 2, 2009, a strong 7.1 magnitude temblor struck off the coast of Honduras, followed by 17 aftershocks, sending startled citizens into the streets of Tegucigalpa, the country’s capital. On June 3, with Supreme Master Ching Hai’s contribution of US$20,000, our Association members from Costa Rica and Colombia formed a relief team and purchased supplies to distribute in the quake-affected areas, where more than 1,400 families lacked shelter and many were living outdoors. On June 4, General Carlos Cordero, Head of the Honduras Fire Department, kindly helped the relief team to be the first group to reach many of the affected areas. The next day they met with Municipal Fire Department Chief Colonel Julio Lopez of Choloma, one of the most severely affected areas, to distribute food and other supplies to the affected people. The recipients were delighted to receive the timely aid from Supreme Master Ching Hai and conveyed their gratitude to Master. Over the following week the relief team traveled to Puerto Cortes and visited 12 communities in which 680 families had lost everything in the earthquake, as well as 95 families from seven communities in the Omoa Municipality. With the help of local Red Cross volunteers, the fire department and supermarket employees, they distributed enough food to last these needy families for 15 days. On June 13, the relief team reached their last stop, the municipality of Progreso where 1,300 families also needed food and relief supplies. The aid recipients, whose faith in God and gratitude are immense, said, “She is like an Angel for us. Nobody else worried about our hunger and the necessities we need to live, but She is a great person and sent food for us and also Her love and prayers to comfort and uplift us.” During their time in Honduras, the relief team worked with members of the local fire department, Red Cross and Catholic Church, and appreciates these groups with special hearts, who offered help unconditionally.
Expenditures
by Supreme Master Ching Hai and Her International Association
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Nicaragua
Bringing Material Comfort and the Message of Hope
By Costa Rica Relief Team (Originally in Spanish)
On June 2, 2009, a week after the recent flood in Nicaragua, a relief team formed by our Association members in Costa Rica went to the local Red Cross in Managua to gather information about the affected families that might need help. They were pleased to find out that there were no victims from this flood. However, they were told that a community of 236 families (about 1,000 adults and 500 children), who were displaced from their Manchester neighborhood due to Lake Nicaragua’s flood in November 2008, were in urgent need of assistance. Colonel Rafael Ramirez from the National System for the Prevention, Mitigation and Attention of Disasters (SINAPRED) informed them that these families are now staying in the city of Tipitapa, 35km away from Managua. During their visit to this city, the relief team observed that all the families were living in very simple corrugated metal and cardboard structures that had no electricity or water. The water truck came every two or three days, and each family would fill up their own water barrel. Moreover, the heads of most households were unemployed, so they were in desperate need of food. With Master’s loving contribution of US$12,000, the relief team purchased 130 latrines and 278 plastic pipes to carry water from the newly built well to their small dwellings. Each family received a bucket, gas lantern and a large amount of food including rice, flour, beans, oil, and some fruit and vegetable seeds which they could plant around their shelters to be more self-sufficient. The people rejoiced when they received these wonderful gifts. They sang spiritual songs and poems under the moonlight and some of them said that they were the happy poor! They sent Master their best wishes and profound gratitude for what they received. A girl wanted to send Master a nicely painted stone in the shape of a foot, which was her only possession. People understood Master’s spiritual teachings and wanted to keep our Association’s banners to display in the community. The relief team also took the opportunity to spread the global warming message and its solutions in Managua. Apart from distributing 10,000 SOS flyers, they gave a presentation titled “Let’s Stop Global Warming Together” to approximately 80 students and professors at the University of Nicaragua (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Nicaragua). They were invited to address a larger audience next month as well as provide vegetarian food as incentive for people to change to this compassionate lifestyle. This university is also looking to install satellite dishes on their campus and in other national public universities to access Supreme Master TV. The director of the Environmental Department at the University of Central America (Universidad Centroamericana) plans to work with our Association on future global warming projects. The local Red Cross also invited the initiates to give three climate change workshops in July and to teach vegetarian cooking to their staff and leaders of 16 communities. The relief team was very impressed by the purity of the local citizens and their openness to change. With more people quickly joining the compassionate vegan circle, our planet can really be saved!
Expenditure by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Brazil
Braving Floods to Help Brazilians
By Brazil Relief Team (Originally in Portuguese)
Through Master's grace and the help of our Brazil Center, Association members recently formed a relief team to provide aid to flood victims in Santa Quitéria and São João do Caru in the state of Maranhão, northeastern Brazil. The relief team was greeted at the airport by local TV reporters who interviewed members about the work of our Association. From May 23 to 25, the relief team delivered almost seven tons of food aid along with SOS flyers to the affected people in Santa Quitéria where they were provided with canoe transport. On May 27 the relief team went to the municipality of São João do Caru, where 4,800 affected citizens had not yet received help from the Civil Defense of Maranhão State. They received assistance from the Mayor and his wife, and the Secretary of Administration of City Hall, Sr. Everaldo Artur Franveischetto, who provided them with food, a place to sleep and transportation to the affected areas. Three tons of food aid along with SOS flyers were distributed and members of the relief team were requested to give a talk on global warming to the Department of Education in São João do Caru. The flood victims in northern and northeastern Brazil expressed their gratitude and thanks for the great concern shown to them by Supreme Master Ching Hai. The relief team members are grateful for God’s protection, which allowed them to reach the needy people despite the strong current of the flood. May God bless all those affected by the floods with a swift recovery.
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Expenditures
by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
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Dominican Republic
Flood Relief for the Dominican Republic
By Florida Relief Team, USA (Originally in English)
Earlier this year the Dominican Republic was struck by a tropical storm that affected more than 50 communities. Supplied with Supreme Master Ching Hai’s financial aid, a relief team from the Florida Center, USA, went to help the victims and to distribute relief goods and supplies on February 17, 2009. Their first stop was Santiago, the Dominican Republic, where they worked with the local Civil Defense team, who gave them information about the affected areas. They then delivered the most needed emergency supplies to the victims in Tamboril De Carlos Diaz, a town where many buildings and crops had been destroyed by a landslide, causing the residents to move to a shelter. Next they traveled to the most affected area, San Francisco de Macoris, where they worked with another Civil Defense team in a place called the River of Death, known for its constant flooding, and provided many goods and supplies to the villagers. To express their appreciation for Master’s love, support and consideration for humankind and the environment, the country’s Offices of Civil Defense in Santiago and San Francisco both gave Master an award. Four of their staff members were sincerely interested in Master’s teachings and learnt the Convenient Method.
Caption: Expenditures
by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Haiti
Co-operation and Loving Aid Bring Comfort
to Haitian Flood Victims
By Georgia and Florida Relief Teams, USA (Originally in English)
On May 28, 2009, Association members from Georgia and Florida, USA, arrived in Haiti to bring Master’s love, blessings and gift of US$15,000 to those affected by the country’s recent flooding. After a five-hour drive, the team members reached the first destination, Artibonnite, where they were assisted by members of the Secretariat of State for the Integration of People with Disabilities (SEIPH) in purchasing vital supplies for the victims. The owner of one store generously gave them a large discount on their purchases to help with the compassionate work. The S.E.I.P.H was also kind enough to help distribute the supplies from Master to 200 families affected by the crisis, many of whom were ecstatic upon seeing the arrival of the relief team. On the following day after a grueling ten-hour drive, the team members came to La Cayes, the most devastated city in the region. Again the faithful, dedicated friends from the S.E.I.P.H provided invaluable help in reaching over 460 evacuated families. They would have found it impossible to bring this vital assistance to so many without their aid. All the disaster victims whole-heartedly appreciated the Supreme Master for bringing Her awe-inspiring gifts of love and for lifting their spirits and bringing them new hope at this critical time. Caption: Representatives of S.E.I.P.H express their appreciation and thank Master for Her gifts of love. Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai for Flood Relief Work in Haiti
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USA
Master Contributes to US School Fundraiser for Kenya
By Florida News Group (Originally in English)
Since October Golden Year 5 (2008), students from 45 Broward County schools in Florida, USA, have been conducting an activity called “Free the Children,” which includes bake sales, spaghetti dinners and walkathons to raise money for the construction of schools in Kenya. The Florida students learned that many Kenyan youngsters lack a basic education due to a shortage of school facilities, and although many of the students are from low-income families themselves, they have been able to raise US$93,450 to fund the building of 11 schools. Thirteen year-old Santiago Vazquez III of Rickards Middle School said, “I pocketed every penny and nickel and dime I saw. We have a lot, and I guess you could say they have nothing.” Santiago was given a laptop computer for his money-raising efforts. Also, after collecting nearly $11,000 and winning the top fundraiser spot Northeast High School was entitled to send its four students on a 21-day trip to Kenya in July 2009. When Supreme Master Ching Hai learned of the Broward County schools’ incredible feat, She pledged an additional $15,000 as a humble contribution to “Free the Children.” Florida initiates presented Supreme Master Ching Hai’s check in a friendly, informal gathering with school officials including Principal Jonathon Williams and Assistant Director of Administration Arthur Rose, who is also the “Free the Children” representative. In addition, gift bags containing Master’s Amazon.com best sellers The Dogs in My Life, The Birds in My Life and The Noble Wilds and a selection of Her DVDs and CDs were given to four students from Northeast High and one from Rickards Middle School in recognition of their leading role in the fundraising. Mr. Williams commended the highly informative SOS flyer and promised to post it on the school’s website. Also, a representative from Rickards Middle School was very interested in learning more about Master Ching Hai and the Quan Yin Meditation Method and took a large pile of SOS flyers with him to his school. Reference: http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Broward-Kids-Raise-The-Roof-For-Kenya-Schools.html Caption: A thank you letter from the School Board of Broward County, Florida
Support for Injured Firefighters
By Los Angeles News Group (Originally in English)
In November 2008, when a wildfire swept through Corona and surrounding cities in Southern California, four firefighters were injured in the line of duty. Realizing that their injury might cause a great deal of strain on their colleagues, our compassionate Master contributed US$18,000, which included US$10,000 to the Corona Firefighters’ Benevolent Fund and US$2,000 to the family of each injured firefighter. The Corona Firefighters’ Association President Mr. Jim Steiner was deeply appreciative of the Supreme Master’s financial assistance, and said that with such support he hopes to help not only injured firefighters in his own area, but also the many others who are killed and injured every day around the USA.
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Flood Relief in Florida, USA
By Florida News Group (Originally in English)
Due to an intense tropical storm at the end of May 2009 in Daytona Beach, Florida, USA, the neighborhood experienced three to four feet of flooding, leaving many people stranded in their homes. Through the Supreme Master’s love and generous monetary contribution, approximately 1,000 packages containing basic necessities and food items were lovingly prepared through the night and distributed to victims the next day by local Association members and volunteers. The relief team was blessed because the flood waters had receded, allowing them to set up a work station at the first stop, where the care packages were distributed along with clothing and freshly prepared vegan meals. Many people, after reading the SOS flyers, understood why the vegetarian diet is the solution to global warming and offered to help spread the message. One community organizer said she was a vegetarian and expressed sincere gratitude to Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her generosity and love. A lot of senior residents were deeply touched by Master’s gifts and repeatedly exclaimed, “God bless you!” The relief team also went door to door delivering packages in an area where many people had been stranded for days, and the team was impressed to see friends, family and neighbors join together to help one another. They hope more people realize the importance of turning to a compassionate lifestyle in time to avoid future disasters.
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Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
Fire Reveals Citizens’ Kindness and Faith
By Georgia and Carolina News Group (Originally in English)
With Supreme Master Ching Hai’s US$15,000 in monetary aid, fellow initiates from Carolina and Georgia, USA traveled to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on April 28, 2009 to provide relief to families affected by a raging, week-long fire that burned 20,000 acres (30 square miles), destroyed 76 homes and damaged 96 others. The damage was estimated at US$16 million. Through God’s Grace, however, no injuries or deaths occurred. At the hard-hit Barefoot Resort area, the CEO of the Coastal South Carolina Chapter of the American Red Cross, Angela Nicholas, kindly told the initiates the whereabouts of the victims, who were scattered amongst different hotels and neighbors’ houses. In return, they presented her with Master’s book The Noble Wilds and also gave a copy to the local WMBF News channel. They then visited many families and gave them supplies of daily necessities, food, some cash and copies of Master’s books. They heard many stories that revealed the beauty of human kindness in the face of tragedy. Plagas, a family of six, who had no homeowner’s insurance and were staying in a tent, told them what had happened during the fire, and how they had managed to escape with their cat and dog. One woman said her husband, Mr.Fergeolle, had helped to rescue several of their neighbors, including Ms. Hedesh, a lady in her mid-70s, whom he carried from her bed, thus saving her life. After learning of his heroic act, Master offered Mr. Fergeolle $1,500 and Ms. Hedesh $1,000. The local policemen were also very helpful and told them where to find other victims. One officer who noticed their “Be Veg, Go Green, Save the Planet” bumper sticker, was delighted to receive an SOS flier and said he was “totally into green” and would help spread the message. Caption: Old and young alike enjoy reading Master’s book The Noble Wilds.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
Love for Helpless Animals in Iraq
By USA News Group (Originally in English)
In September 2007, the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) International launched “Operation Baghdad Pups,” a program that reunites US servicemen and women with the once-stray canines that came under their care in Iraq. Upon hearing of this noble cause, Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed US$3,000 to the project. On February 1, Golden Year 6 (2009), the SPCA replied in a letter expressing their gratitude, describing the deep bond between the service men and women and their adopted animals, and thanking Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her gift of love, which will allow the lives of many dogs to be saved by returning them to caring and safe homes. Caption: Thank-you letter from SPCA International for the US$3,000 from Master
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Australia
Timely Relief for Australian Flood Victims
By New South Wales News Group (Originally in English)
Recently Coffs Harbour and its neighbouring towns along the mid-north coast of New South Wales had been under siege from heavy flooding. With Master’s merciful grace, initiates from New South Wales formed a relief team and arrived in Coffs Harbour on April 6, 2009, to assess the flood situation. They met with a State Emergency Service worker, who kindly told them the worst flood-affected areas were Bellingen, Urunga, Newry Island and Coffs Harbour. One of the places the team first visited was Marina Crescent, which had been drenched twice in six weeks, with floodwaters reaching 1 meter high. Though no injuries or fatalities were reported, many homes were left empty, carpeting and furnishings were scattered along the roadside, and gardens and garages were covered with mud. Many vehicles had flood damage. Many of the flood-stricken residents were happy to receive the comfort items and were sincerely grateful for Master’s loving assistance.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Kyrgyzstan
Unconditional Care for Landslide Victims
By Korean Relief Team (Originally in Korean)
On April 16, 2009, a landslide swept through a village in the Central Asian country of Kyrgyzstan. Sixteen people lost their lives and three dwellings were destroyed, leaving the residents homeless. Upon hearing of the tragedy, Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed US$10,000 to bring emergency relief to those most in need. The additional US$10,000 for travel expenses was covered by our Association members. On May 8, a relief team of Korean Association members arrived at the landslide-stricken village of Raykomol in the Jalalabad region. Seeing the cramped conditions the survivors lived in, the team gave cash assistance to enable the homeless to build houses and purchase necessity items. A 15kg box of clothing was also given to help those who had lost all their personal possessions in the landslide. The people expressed their sincere gratitude for Supreme Master’s timely aid. Caption: Receipt for Kyrgyzstan Landslide relief work US$10,800 Tajikistan
Endless Love for Orphanage, School Number 12
By Korean Relief Team (Originally in Korean)
After the Korean relief team visited Orphanage School Number 12 in Khorugh, Pamir Plateau, in October 2008 and assisted earthquake victims in Tajikistan, the following month, Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed an additional US$5,300 to purchase winter clothing and books for the 53 children living in the orphanage. (Please refer to News #201 for a detailed report.) Later, due to Her concern about the structure of School Number 12, which She heard was at risk of collapsing, Master offered an additional US$50,000 to repair the buildings and upgrade the facilities in the kitchen, dining room, laundry room and children’s room. The contribution, along with 250 items of clothing, was brought to the school on May 2, 2009. Ms. Guldona, the director of School Number 12, asked to display Master’s picture at the orphanage and invited Master to visit Tajikstan one day. In addition, the Director of the Tajikistan Performing Arts School presented a beautiful, traditional Tajikistani dress as a sign of appreciation for the work of Supreme Master Ching Hai and Her Association members.
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Providing Aid for Flood and Mudslide Victims In May 2009, floods and mudslides in Tajikistan displaced over 15,000 people and disrupted agriculture, power supply and transport. Deeply concerned about the crisis, Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed US$10,000 in aid, and our relief team from South Korea travelled to Dushanbe, where two families had lost all of their properties to a powerful mudslide. A cash fund of US$700 was presented to both families. Upon reaching the most heavily affected Khuroson district in Khatlon province, the team distributed US$9,000 to 340 families for the purchase of daily necessities such as flour and clothing. About US$300 was provided to the soldiers to ease their conditions. The recipients expressed enormous gratitude to Master Ching Hai for Her generous, loving gifts. We thank all parties involved in the relief work and pray that the people can swiftly resume normal, productive lives and that Earth will soon be free of such calamities as we all unite to restore its stability.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Korea
Caring Gifts for Humans and Animals in Need
By Seoul News Group (Originally in Korean)
In Korea, autumn is the season for making kimchi, a nutritious, pickled cabbage dish that has long been an important wintertime food in Korean households. This year, during the first Loving Kimchi Festival at the Youngdong (Sangju) Center, Association members from all over South Korea gathered to make spicy organic vegan kimchi for the country’s less fortunate. A hundred and twenty boxes of the food were distributed to widowed seniors, the homeless, a center for the disabled and an animal shelter run by a sister-initiate from the Seoul Center. After learning of the event, on January 11, Golden Year 6 (2009), Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed US$5,000 to the shelter, which houses 40 dogs and cats. The much-needed cash gift supports the shelter’s daily operations and was gratefully received. On Master's behalf the Seoul Center also sent some vegan cat and dog food along with Her love to all its cherished residents. Caption: A thank you letter from the sister-initiate
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Bangladesh
People Thankful for Material and Spiritual Relief
By Formosa Relief Team (Originally in Chinese)
Bangladesh recently suffered a series of natural disasters in the months of April and May. First was the cyclonic storm Bijli that struck the south-eastern coast. Then came the landslide in Moulvibazar in the northeast, followed soon after by another strong cyclonic storm Aila on the southern coast. Following the arrival of the monsoon season in June, the Brahmaputra River flowing through India and Bangladesh rose sharply due to the deluge, which triggered mudslides along the river. Very much concerned about the people, Supreme Master Ching Hai made four allocations of relief funds. Relief teams formed by our Association members in Formosa, carrying Master’s great compassion and relief funds, went to the affected areas to help the people. South-Eastern Coast Our relief team arrived at the most heavily stricken area, Cox’s Bazar District and Teknaf Town, where we received ready assistance from Mr. Ali Hussain, Mr. Juboraz and other kind-hearted locals. We also obtained information about the situation from Secretary of the Commissioner of Chittagong Division. We then purchased rice, millet, vegetable oil, sweets and mosquito nets to meet the emergency needs of 750 households and an orphanage in Teknaf. The top officials of Teknaf, Cox’s Bazar and Chittagong expressed their wholehearted gratitude for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s loving concern. Moulvibazar Our relief team reached Moulvibazar on May 28. With assistance from the local Red Crescent Society, we visited two households that were in desperate need of help. We purchased relief materials, which included rice, beans and soybean oil for the first family. The second family had lost five members, leaving only two girls and one of them had to leave school early to earn a living. From Master’s relief fund, our relief team provided school fees and living expenses to support her courageous goal of completing her studies. Southern Coast On May 30, our relief team arrived at Satkhira, 170 km away from the capital city of Dhaka. Some villages to the south of Satkhira were severely hit and people were in need of food and drinking water. Since the army had already started supplying large quantities of drinking water to the people, we concentrated on food supply. With the help of the Red Crescent, we purchased rice, beans, salt and oil, which we packed and transported to 14 of the most affected villages. During our distribution work, we met Mr. H.M. Golam Reza, M.P. of Bangladesh, who was inspecting the area. He was very grateful to Supreme Master Ching Hai and our Association, and invited us to travel on his boat to inspect other areas. Along the Brahmaputra River After contacting local police on July 11, we travelled throughout the night to the most severely affected district of Sunamganj. On July 12, with help from a local NGO—the Assistance for Slum Dwellers, we found out that a remote village was in desperate need of help. Working in cooperation with them, our relief team distributed supplies of rice, oil, lentils, salt and potatoes to 400 needy households. Later we met an individual who read our SOS flyer and wished to adopt the vegan diet, translate the flyer into the Bangla language, and have 10,000 copies printed for distribution! His enthusiasm and compassion moved us to tears. During this time, we learned the situation in Sirajganj was even worse and arrived there on July 13. We confirmed that 4,000 households were affected in two heavily stricken areas in Ullapara and Raiganj. The next day, we packed the relief materials at an educational institute and then delivered them for distribution. To our delightful surprise, a professor agreed that the livestock industry is responsible for global warming and said that he had begun to adopt the vegan diet. Deeply touched by Master’s teachings and the SOS message on the flyer, he invited us to share the “Be Veg, Go Green, Save the Planet” message with all the university students! Observing that the institute was crudely equipped with some destitute students, we decided to contribute 30,000 Taka for student grants and equipment upgrades. The relief operations were accomplished smoothly due to Master’s most benevolent and loving blessing, bringing timely material relief and spiritual consolation to distressed people in dire situations.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Nepal
Heartfelt Care for Families in Need
By Kathmandu News Group (Originally in English)
In the early morning of May 3, 2009, a powerful storm hit the eastern parts of Nepal, massively affecting 94 Village Development Committees*, each comprising several villages, in the Rautahat district. More than 500 houses were left without roofs, six people lost their lives and many others were injured. After spending a week evaluating the situation in the vast disaster-stricken area, our Association members from the Kathmandu Center bought 400 tents and 350 mosquito nets with Master’s loving contribution of US$10,000 and returned to Rautahat on May 21. They met with Chief District Officer Kamalesh Prasad Sinha, Red Cross District President Mohammed Mazrool Haq and Superintendent of Police (SP) Ghanananda Bhatta the following day to discuss the relief work. They then decided to distribute the tents and mosquito nets to families who had lost their loved ones or were in need of financial assistance or whose houses had suffered severe damage. Despite muddy road conditions and the hot weather, the relief team spent another three days traveling by jeep and motorcycle to remote areas to conduct a further door-to-door assessment of the situation so that no family in desperate need would be missed. On May 25, they delivered the relief supplies directly into the hands of the needy at the District Police Office in the presence of the Red Cross District President, the Superintendent of Police, the Superintendent of Armed Police, some local officers and volunteers. All were impressed by the efficient work of the fellow initiates and learned many new strategies for handling emergency situations. They thanked Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her heartfelt care and love for the victims, and indicated that it was the first help they’d received since the storm. They were also happy to receive SOS flyers and information about vegetarianism as a noble way of life and a solution to the current crisis of global warming, as well as learn about Master and Her mission. Additional tents and mosquito nets were sent to the people in remote villages on May 31 through the Nepal Red Cross. The Nepal Red Cross Society and the District Police Office in Rautahat sent letters of appreciation thanking our Association members for their work and dedication. The national news channel Avenues Television and the local newspaper By Pass Daily all covered this relief operation. * A Village Development Committee is similar to a municipality. Caption: Thank you letters from District Police Office and Red Cross Society, Rautahat Expenditure
by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Philippines
Relief Efforts in the Wake of a Summer Typhoon
By Formosa Relief Team (Originally in Chinese)
On May 3, Typhoon Kujira swept across Sorsogon Province in the Philippines, causing floods and landslides that affected tens of thousands of people. Immediately, Supreme Master Ching Hai contributed US$20,000 for relief work. On May 9, a Formosa Relief Team was dispatched to Manila and went to the affected areas in Sorsogon Province the next day. With the information from the Provincial Governor’s Office that about 9,000 households were severely in need, the team decided to prepare 10,000 portions of relief materials for distribution in the five most seriously damaged areas of Bulan, Juban, Magallanes, Matnog and Bacon. Then with the assistance of the government, our relief team purchased 602 sacks of rice at a low price, as well as sugar, soy sauce, rice powder and other supplies from the biggest local supermarket. The materials were distributed on May 13 and 14 along with SOS Climate Change flyers to let the people know that natural disasters are related to global warming and that a plant-based diet can significantly reverse the trend. Provincial government officials and local social welfare bureaus in the five areas expressed their deepest gratitude to Supreme Master Ching Hai. Caption: Letter of appreciation from the Sorsogon Province Government
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Malaysia
Visiting Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary
By Johore Bahru News Group (Originally in Chinese)
On February 14, Golden Year 6 (2009), fellow initiates from the Johore Bahru Center travelled to Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary at Pekan Nanas in Johore State, to visit its founder Mr. Raymond Wee. On behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai, they presented him with US$10,000 fund to help feed and care for them. They also gave him a disc of the Supreme Master Television’s program on the sanctuary as a souvenir, and The Dogs and The Birds in My Life DVD. Mr. Wee was very grateful to Master for Her generosity. He said that this contribution would greatly help to cover the expenditures for animal feed, and medication for older and ailing dogs. He was also thankful to Supreme Master Television for reporting about the sanctuary, thus allowing more people to know about, and then visit this animal haven. At present, the sanctuary provides shelter to 750 dogs, 500 cats, as well as some horses, monkeys and geese. In order to let the animals can live in a good environment, Mr. Wee even sold his shop and house. As a lot of money is required to feed and take care of them, the sanctuary is often short of funds. Fortunately, it has managed to overcome the difficulty with donations from businessmen and enthusiastic supporters. Mr. Wee hoped that one day Supreme Master Ching Hai could personally visit Noah’s Ark Natural Animal Sanctuary, where he would be more than happy to introduce his lovely animal friends to Her.
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Indonesia
Master’s Arrangements
and Love Help Flood-Stricken Villagers
By Indonesia News Group (Originally in Indonesian)
Upon hearing of Master’s concern about the flooding in West Sulawesi in January, 2009, initiates from the Bali Center formed a relief team and arrived at Polewali on January 15. The team went directly to the local Indonesian Red Cross post to discuss relief supplies and on the following day distributed items in Sepabatu village, Majene district. About 400 families from six villages received relief packages containing a blanket, a stove, a pan, tableware and carpets. The villagers’ faces shone with appreciation for Master Ching Hai’s love and generosity as they gratefully received Her blessing and comfort. On March 4, 2009, a relief team of Association members from Malang and Surabaya departed for the heavily flooded city of Lamongan. After consulting with the government relief team and Indonesian Red Cross staff, the initiates went to the most heavily affected area, Laren, where nine of 13 villages had been flooded. They supplied the villagers with relief packages to ease their situation, as well as many plastic bags to make sandbags to block the flood-water. The government was very appreciative of this urgent aid. At their next stop, the relief team was met by officers of six villages and the local district head. They explained to the local citizens how choosing a compassionate diet could have a positive impact on our planet and many villagers promised to address this issue. The villagers were grateful for Master’s help, especially because the relief team was the first to come to the area. The relief work went smoothly through Master’s guidance, protection and love.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai and Her Association
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China
Master Brings Timely Storm Relief
Report compiled by fellow initiates in China (Originally in Chinese)
From May to July this year, rare torrential rains swept across many regions of China, causing numerous disasters. Very much concerned about the people, our compassionate Master allocated financial relief and instructed fellow initiates to promptly respond to the needs of the victims.. Shandong Province From May 9 to May 11, parts of Shandong Province were hit by heavy downpours and severe floods occurred in Huiwen County of Binzhou City. After surveying the situation, fellow initiates purchased and distributed 200 bags of flour and 50 cans of peanut oil, together with some monetary relief, to affected households. The village chief enthusiastically helped organize the effort and the villagers were very happy and grateful for the assistance. Guizhou Province On May 16 and 17, torrential rain came down on Pingtang County of Guizhou Province, triggering landslides and causing casualties in Pinghu Town. We purchased blankets and soybean powder, which we distributed to those in urgent need during the Dragon Boat Festival on May 28. We also played “The China Study” DVD to give the people a greater understanding of how a vegan diet can positively impact their health and environment. Sichuan Province Towards the end of June, continuous downpours set off landslides that affected the livelihood of 25 farming households in Fuping Township, Liangping County, Chongqing City. We purchased supplies of blankets, oil, mosquito repellent, plastic sheets, towels and laundry powder. With assistance from the local Civil Affairs Bureau and the Township Office, the emergency relief materials and financial aid were distributed on July 8. “I will emulate your actions in the future, and educate my family and the villagers that they must treat each other with love,” said a grateful government official. Extremely heavy rains on July 11 caused severe floods in Fangui Township, Yihan County, Dazhou City. Many houses were destroyed and farmlands were submerged. We promptly purchased blankets, laundry powder, towels, rice, noodles and vegetables, and delivered them to Fangui Secondary School where people were offered temporary shelter. Monetary relief was also distributed to 17 heavily affected households. Every person received an Alternative Living flyer to help them realize livestock farming is the true cause behind all the frequent disasters and encourage them to quickly adopt the compassionate meat-free lifestyle. Jiangxi Province On July 10, a team of Jiangxi initiates, blessed with Master’s love, traveled to three villages in Dayu County—Dongshan in Nanan Town, Changjiang in Chijiang Town, and Zhouwu in Xincheng Town, to provide relief assistance to villagers forced into dire conditions by severe rain. In addition to distributing heatstroke prevention kits, beverages and Alternative Living flyers to all local residents, we also presented financial aid to needy households. Hunan Province From June 28 to July 2, floods swept through Zhangjiajie, Huaihua and Loudi, causing mountain torrents and landslides, immersing farmlands and toppling houses in some areas. On July 7, we distributed rice and financial contributions to people in Zhangjaijie’s Cili County and Huaihua’s Mayang Miao Autonomous County whose houses were destroyed or severely damaged. On June 9, the whole County of Suining was hit by torrential rain that triggered disastrous mountain torrents. On July 19, we distributed 3,240kg of rice purchased from the county rice mill. The following day, with the help of civil administration officials, we handed out more than 15,000kg of rice and 1,190kg of noodles to people in Egongling Tong and Miaozu Township. Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai for Flood Relief in China (Currency: ¥)
Helping Hail Storm Victims in Anhui Province
By fellow initiates in China (Originally in Chinese)
Commencing June 3, 2009, 63 counties and districts in 15 cities in Anhui Province, including Suzhou, Haozhou, Huaibei, Anqing, were hit by hail-storms. Initial figures showed 4.82 million people were affected. Our compassionate Master immediately instructed fellow initiates to render relief. On June 14, initiates arrived at the severely stricken township of Licang, in Mengcheng County. They provided relief supplies of rice, rapeseed oil, green beans and rock sugar. Licang’s Mayor who is also the town’s party committee secretary, and the County Civil Affairs Bureau Chief welcomed them warmly and presented a banner of commendation on behalf of the local inhabitants. With the help of county officials, the relief materials reached 140 local households and 50 people at Licang Elderly Home with extra financial assistance going to four severely affected families. That afternoon, Mengcheng County was again hit by thunderstorms, strong winds and hail, causing casualties and heavy damages. On June 18, initiates again purchased rice, rapeseed oil, wheat flour and also schoolbags, rendering relief in Tancheng Town. Assisted by local officials, they distributed the materials to about 200 households and visited 20 badly hit families giving them relief supplies and cash. Later, they gave out beautiful schoolbags to students at Central Primary School, who were overjoyed and saluted them. It was a touching scene. It is our hope that everyone will adopt the compassionate animal-free lifestyle to counter the negative effects of global warming.
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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India
Helping Alleviate the Effects
of Extreme Weather in India
By India News Group (Originally in English)
On January 3, 2009, schools in India’s capital New Delhi were closed for over a week due to freezing temperatures, high winds and fog that put students’ health at risk. Knowing many people were without adequate protection from the intense cold sweeping across Northern India, Supreme Master Ching Hai immediately contributed US$10,000, and with the help of the deputy district magistrate a team of our Association members delivered wool blankets and other urgent items to the needy people to help them keep warm. The Red Cross Society, surgeon Dr. Shyam Swaroop and other volunteers also lent a helping hand during the relief work in Lucknow. The local people were deeply grateful and touched by Master Ching Hai’s selfless love. We pray that such extremes in temperature will moderate as more people adopt a compassionate, vegan diet. Expenditures
by Supreme Master Ching Hai
God Bestows Love on Cyclonic Storm Victims
By Formosa Relief Team (Originally in Chinese)
On May 25, strong cyclonic storm Aila lashed many areas in the West Bengal State of eastern India. Several hundred fatalities were reported, numerous houses collapsed and more than 100,000 people were left homeless and displaced. Our relief team from Formosa made two trips to West Bengal in June, bringing Master’s love and contributions of US$25,000 and US$10,000, respectively. We worked with two local non-profit groups, Manav Jyot and the Sadharmik Group, which assisted us in purchasing food, medication and clothes and accompanied us during our trips to the affected areas. On June 7, some members of our relief team travelled by boat to Pula Bajar, a village located in the south of Kolkata, to distribute the first batch of relief goods. The others took a boat to Dhamakhali to meet the people and find out what they needed. During the next two days, we purchased food from the local market and distributed it in more than ten riverside villages at Dhamakhali. A second relief team from Formosa arrived in Kolkata on June 30, to continue the relief effort. Next to the inn where they stayed was a Jain temple. Upon knowing our mission, the temple master Namra Muni and his disciples voluntarily rendered their assistance. The relief goods, including food, mosquito nets and clothes, were purchased two days later. Early the next morning, together with more than ten volunteers from the Jain temple, we proceeded to the most severely hit village of Pathar Pratima. When receiving the emergency provisions fully charged with Master’s love and blessing, the villagers beamed happily and expressed gratitude for Master’s love and care. On July 4, Master made another contribution of US$10,000 to the affected victims in Assam after learning the state was hit by flood. On reaching Lakhimpur, the more affected district in the state of Assam, our rescue team enquired about the situation and the needs of the people from the local governments. Through Master’s arrangement, we met Shri Dhiren Dutta, a local philanthropist and respected member of the community trade council. With his assistance, we efficiently procured food and medical supplies, which were distributed to the people in ten villages in Bhahpara and Khamun. Deeply moved by Master’s love, Shri Dutta said that he would adopt the vegetarian diet. Thereupon he proudly hung a banner bearing Master’s name at his shop entrance as a reminder to the local folks about the importance of the vegetarian diet and the looming effects of global warming. Thanks to God’s blessing, all three relief missions were accomplished smoothly. Expenditures
of Supreme Master Ching Hai’s (Currency: Indian Rupee)
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Au Lac
Serving Fellow Countrymen in Need
By Aulac News Group (Originally in Aulaces)
After Ha Tinh and Nghe An provinces in Northern Âu Lạc were hit by a tornado on March 29, 2009, our Association members arrived with Master’s love and distributed monetary assistance, and other emergency supplies to 117 displaced households. Later on May 18, another tornado swept through Bắc Cạn and Thái Nguyên provinces, taking two lives and destroying many houses as well as crops that were ready for harvest. In addition, torrential rains and upstream floods had caused serious mudslides in the mountainous areas, which cut off communications and damaged roads, seriously affecting citizens in that region. With Master’s contribution of US$10,000, our Association members immediately formed a relief team, gathered essential materials, and arrived by car in the worst-hit villages in Bắc Cạn on May 22. They paid a special visit to Bắc Cạn Junior High School to distribute food and monetary gifts, helping the teachers and students to quickly resume their activities. On behalf of the entire school, the principal, Mr. Ninh Thị Hảo, extended to Master his words of heartfelt gratitude. The next day, despite rugged terrain and roads, our Association members braved streams and hills to reach remote villages deep in the forest and mountains of Thái Nguyên province to provide aid to each affected household. People were excited to receive the timely material and spiritual support and were touched by Master’s loving concern and blessings. The relief team members wholeheartedly cherish the opportunity to serve their fellow countrymen, and to bring the message of love to the less fortunate in Âu Lạc.
Caption:
Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai
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Love in Action
United Kingdom
A Loving Home for Animals in Need
By Surrey News Group (Originally in English)
In May of Golden Year 6 (2009), the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association members were honored to present a special Thank You letter and a monetary contribution of US$1,000 (£681.86) from Supreme Master Ching Hai to Ms. Wendy Valentine, founder of Hillside Animal Sanctuary in Norwich, UK. The Sanctuary is home to over 900 animals, many of whom had experienced the horrendous conditions of factory farms, but are now living out their lives in peace, thanks to the facility’s many dedicated workers. The Sanctuary also exposes the abominable treatment on the factory farms to the public. Ms. Valentine is a vegan and likes to offer delicious animal free foods for her visitors such as scones, cakes, sandwiches, rolls and even ice cream. May God bless Wendy Valentine and the staff of Hillside Animal Sanctuary for their noble work, and we pray that very soon all animals and humans will live in peace, happiness and safety. Caption: Thank you letter from Ms. Wendy Valentine for the US$1,000 contribution by Master.
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France
Contributing to Medical Research
and Treatment Institutes
By France News Group (Originally in French)
In December Golden Year 5 (2008), the city of Roquebrune Cap Martin, France held an activity to raise funds so that the French Muscular Dystrophy Association (Association Française contre les Myopathies, AFM) could conduct more of its social welfare work such as curing neuromuscular diseases and reducing patients’ handicaps. After learning of the action, Master contributed €20,000 to the French Muscular Dystrophy Association in appreciation of the Association’s wonderful work curing neuromuscular diseases and helping patients’ families in their daily lives. Master also contributed €50,000 to the Foundation Claude Pompidou for the construction of an Alzheimer’s disease research and treatment institute in Nice, which is scheduled to open by 2011. We pray that with God’s blessing and the selfless service of all the volunteers, the great work of these institutions will go on to benefit more people.
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Morocco
Loving Assistance Arrives for Animal Rescue Group
By Paris News group (Originally in French)
The Helga Heidrich Foundation is based near Marrakech, Morocco, in the Maghreb, a region that is home to the Berber ethnic group. The area opens onto the Sahara Desert, and for centuries caravans brought news and precious goods to the West through the Maghreb from faraway places. The Foundation lovingly rescues and sustains large numbers of animals saved from disease, hunger and ill treatment, but requires space, medicine, people, food and water. Thus, there is ongoing need for financial support. Upon learning of the Foundation’s need, Hanane, a Moroccan hero who received the Shining World Compassion Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai in 2006 (Please refer to News 176 for detailed report), appealed to Master. Deeply moved by it’s story, Master contributed €10,000 to help with the Foundation’s efforts in caring for our brother and sister animals in February, Golden Year 6 (2009). The organization plans to dedicate Master’s gift to building a home for animals in distress and those they have rescued, as well as a center for sterilization and vaccination against rabies. In response to Master’s loving support, Helga Heidrich, expressed the following words of appreciation, “You cannot imagine what a joy I feel since I received your e-mail. Truly, it is the light in the dark of the night. Especially after the last series of floods of the (past) week! The fact, that you help us, gives us hope. Believe me, my poor animals and I will always be grateful for your help… I thank you from the bottom of my heart Supreme Master Ching Hai and please pass our gratitude on to all brothers and sisters. May God bless You!”
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| Love in Action
Italy
Loving Kindness Overflows for Flood Victims
By Italy News Group (Originally in Italian)
In mid-December 2008, unusual and adverse weather conditions in Italy caused numerous floods, leaving hundreds of people living along the banks of Tiber River homeless. Venice, Lazio and Rome were the hardest hit regions. To help with the relief work, Supreme Master Ching Hai lovingly provided financial aid and a relief team of local initiates was formed with the assistance of three brothers from Taiwan and Brazil. Our rescue team distributed 198 bags of infant/toddler formula and 30 electric heaters to the flood-stricken victims, which cost EUR 5,152.20 in total. They also distributed SOS flyers and sample booklets and introduced people to the quickest, easiest method to save the planet---vegan diet, which many agreed to try. The aid recipients were touched by Master’s care and generosity. Besides, the staff members from Cooperativa Sociale San Saturnino, a non-profit organization dedicated to assist the disadvantaged minority, said that this was the first time relief aid had come from outside of Rome, particularly from an international association such as Supreme Master Ching Hai’s.
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Expenditures by Supreme Master Ching Hai for Other Charitable Activities
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Expenditures for Charitable and Relief Activities Total Amount in Tables 1 and 2 = NT$951,234 (US$28,217)
Table 1: Charitable and Relief Activities (Amount in NT$)
Table 2: Expenditures of 2009 charitable activities (Currency: in NT$)
To view the Humanitarian Relief Activities by the Supreme
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| Supreme Art
S.M. Celestial Jewelry Series XIII
Designer: Supreme Master Ching Hai Liberation
Caption: Liberation I (square),
Liberation II (rectangular), Liberation III (oval) Lucky
◆ Online appreciation of the S.M. Celestial Jewelry collection designed by Supreme Master Ching Hai: http://www.sm-celestial.com/
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| Supreme Art
The Tea Infuser Cup Set—
A Showcase of Master’s Paintings
This Tea Infuser Cup Set is elegantly and artistically designed using Master’s painting “Fear” as the pattern, the flaming red blossoms standing out against the misty blue background to create a soul-elevating sense of tranquility and romance as you enjoy your tea. To reproduce the original beauty of Master’s painting, the tea set is baked three times in an elaborate process. With gilding to the rims of both cup and saucer, the result is an exquisite art piece worthy of collection. Note: The oil painting “Fear” was created by Supreme Master Ching Hai in Hsihu, Formosa, in June 1991.
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| Elevation of the Soul
Supreme Master Ching Hai’s Latest Sample Booklet
in Kirundi Language Kirundi is a Bantu language spoken by some five million people in Burundi, Tanzania, Congo (Kinshasa) and Uganda. Closely related to each other, Kirundi and Kinyarwanda are mutually intelligible. As the official language of Burundi, Kirundi is used by three ethnic groups, mainly the Hutu, but also by the Tutsi and the Twa. Readers hosting their own websites, forums or blogs are welcome to add the following link: http://sb.Godsdirectcontact.net. This website offers multi-language versions of Master’s sample booklet. Join us in bringing the best gift to the world through sharing God’s message and elevating human consciousness. If you find that your native or first language is not on our list and you would like to translate the sample booklet into your language, please contact us at: divine@Godsdirectcontact.org.
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| Elevation of the Soul
Supreme Master Ching Hai’s
Latest MP3s and MP4s (for Download)
◆◆MP3 ◆◆
◆◆MP3 & MP4◆◆
◆◆MP4◆◆
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| Elevation of the Soul
Supreme Master Ching Hai’s latest
CDs
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| Elevation of the Soul
Supreme Master Ching Hai’s latest DVDs
DVD-833
DVD-834
DVD-845
DVD-856 Los Angeles, California, U.S.A., January 18, 2009
DVD-826
DVD-835
DVD-837
DVD-844
DVD-848
DVD-849
DVD-860
For highlights and introductions, please visit our website in English and Chinese:
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